Chapter One

Cheryl Bannon was leaning against the wall in a cargo compartment full of other captives, with Mark Grayson watching over her. Mark was a former Marine and had been essential in her survival for the last four days. She couldn’t help thinking about the Lamothians’ attack on Highland Station. No one had ever expected that. She knew that hundreds, possibly thousands, of people had died.

“We should be in Confederation space by now,” said Mark, as he kept a wary eye on the heavily armed Lamothian guards standing at the large hatch, the only exit from the cargo compartment. Their eyestalks constantly moved, as they kept a careful watch on the Human captives.

Cheryl nodded. “They take one or two of us every day to feed upon. It’s horrible.” The other captives stayed as far away from the hatch as possible. Everyone knew what was happening to those taken by the Lamothians.

Mark did not reply. He wondered what had happened to Daryl Berk, the other former Marine assigned to keep Cheryl safe, who had been captured with them. He hoped Daryl was still alive. He would be needed if they hoped to escape from this mess. Mark had been in difficult situations before but never one quite like this.

The compartment they were in was filled to overcapacity with Humans. Men, women, children, and even a few babies. Food and water were brought in twice per day. Already several people had died from the harsh conditions, and a number had refused to eat the goop being served as food. The dead were dragged to a corner of the large hatch, where the Lamothians eventually removed them.

A distinct change came in the pitch of the ship’s hyperdrive, and then it suddenly shut down. For the first time in four days the cargo compartment was relatively quiet.

“We just dropped out of hyperspace,” said Mark, concern in his expression. “We must be wherever they’re taking us.”

“One of their worlds where they’ll sell us for food,” commented Cheryl, still finding it hard to believe what was happening to her. She could imagine the anger and frustration Dylan must be feeling. By now he would know about the Lamothian attack on Highland Station and that she had been there. She swore, if she got out of this, she would never go against his wishes again.

People began to talk loudly. A group of men had gathered in one corner of the compartment and were eyeing the guards. From what Mark had heard, they planned to rush the Lamothians, once they arrived at their destination, and try to take over the ship.

Mark had cautioned against it, reminding them the Lamothians were armed with energy weapons, and a lot of innocent people would die in such an attempt. They refused to heed Mark’s warning and planned on going ahead with their attempt. So Mark and Cheryl leaned against the wall as far from the hatch as they could get. They did not want to get caught in the cross fire when the revolt erupted.

-

For an hour nothing happened, and then they felt the ship hit something gently.

“They’ve docked,” said Mark, tracking the group of men edging toward the hatch—nearly thirty of them. None were armed with anything other than their bare hands. “When the shooting starts, get down on the deck and stay there. I suspect the Lamothian guards won’t be too concerned about who they kill. Just do as I say, and you’ll get through this.”

Cheryl nodded. Her heart pounded, and her breathing was heavy. Suddenly the hatch opened, and seven Lamothians stepped inside. All were armed and dressed in combat armor. Even as Cheryl watched, one of the captive men shouted, and the entire group charged the guards. The guards didn’t hesitate and fired into the Humans coming toward them, as if they were expecting something like this.

Several of the guards went down under the rush, and their weapons were seized and used to kill two more. However, more Lamothian guards suddenly charged through the hatch, their weapons firing. The smell of burned flesh became prevalent, and screams and yells filled the cargo compartment. The sounds of weapons fire filled the air.

Mark forced Cheryl down hard on the deck, covering her body with his. “Stay down. Don’t look!”

-

For several minutes the sound of the struggle filled the compartment. People pushed and shoved, trying to get away from the firefight. Cheryl managed to look around Mark. More Lamothians came in through the hatch. Some were firing indiscriminately into the crowd of people. She could hear the sharp cries of pain and the panicked screams for help.

A few of the Human attackers were wielding Lamothian energy weapons. They were firing as fast as they could at the Lamothians crowding into the compartment. Cheryl couldn’t help but feel pleased every time a Lamothian fell to their fire. Two Human shooters were hit by numerous beams of energy, killing them instantly. The other armed Humans were quickly killed, as the Lamothians shot them down without any trace of mercy.

The fighting died down and then stopped. All that could be heard were the moaning of the injured and the crying of those who had just lost somebody. A lot of dead people could be seen throughout the compartment.

“Mark,” said Cheryl, as she tried to roll him off her. She got no response. Finally Cheryl managed to crawl out from beneath him. “Mark?” Rolling him over, Cheryl saw an energy beam had struck him square in the back. Mark was dead!

Cheryl leaned against the wall in shock. She suddenly felt very much alone. Her last protector was gone, and she had no idea what would become of her now.

-

Admiral Dylan Cleemorl sat in his command chair onboard the dreadnought Themis. The ship was in hyperspace, and they wouldn’t reach Confederation space for another three days. Glancing at the tactical display, Dylan saw the green icons of his rescue fleet, ten more dreadnoughts besides the Themis and sixty battlecruisers. All the crewmembers were volunteers, and everyone knew the goals of this mission. Rescue Cheryl and as many of the Human captives as possible.

“How will we do this?” asked Captain Fulmar. “We don’t have any cargo or passenger ships.”

“No, but the Lamothians do. We’ll take their ships, hopefully with their Human captives still onboard.”

“That’s risky. What will their warships be doing while we’re doing that?”

Dylan let out a deep sigh. “That’s what I’m still trying to figure out.” Dylan didn’t know what he would do if something happened to Cheryl. She was the center of his life, and her kidnapping made him realize just how important she was to him.

“I’ll be in my quarters for a while, planning what we’ll do when we finally find Cheryl and the Humans the Lamothians took.”

“Don’t forget. They took a number of aliens captive as well, several thousand at least.”

Dylan nodded. “I haven’t forgotten.”

Reaching his quarters, Dylan sat down behind his desk. He called up what Rear Admiral Masters had discovered on his trip to one of the Lamothian worlds and also the records of what some of the survivors of the escaped cargo vessel had reported. As Dylan looked through the reports, he shook his head. He still had no real idea how he would pull this off.

-

For several hours Dylan read through the reports, and, when he was finished, he leaned back and rubbed his eyes. He had come to realize the mission he had set out on would be nearly impossible. He had slightly less than three days to come up with a workable plan. If he failed, there was a very good chance he would never see Cheryl again. Dylan knew he was in for three nearly sleepless nights.

-

Cheryl was in a state of shock and didn’t know what to do. The Lamothians had cleared out all the dead bodies and then forced everyone to leave the cargo department and to board a large space station. Once there, they had been stripped and ordered to clean up and to put on clean clothes, which were provided. Cheryl was too stunned to feel embarrassed about being naked in front of so many people. Several of the other women had their clothes ripped off when they refused to strip and were then directed to the communal showers.

Once Cheryl was dressed, she returned to the large compartment, where she found food waiting. This meal was more palatable; even several varieties of fruits had been provided.

“Wanting to fatten us up before they eat us,” commented a familiar voice behind her.

Turning, Cheryl saw Daryl Berk standing there. Without thinking, Cheryl hugged Daryl, feeling immense relief flooding through her. “Mark’s dead. He was killed in our cargo compartment when some of the men tried to take out the Lamothian guards.”

Daryl nodded. “Mark was a good man and a good Marine.”

“What now?” asked Cheryl. She was suddenly not quite as afraid as she had been a few moments earlier.

“I have a locator beacon hidden on me. I’m hoping Captain Bryan managed to follow us.”

Cheryl looked surprised. “You think the Princess Haven is close by?”

“I’m counting on it. Let’s get something to eat and sit down. I activated the beacon as soon as I saw you.”

Cheryl was almost afraid to ask but did. “Where is this beacon?”

Daryl tapped his shoulder. “It’s underneath the skin and very small and sends out a signal once every thirty minutes.”

Looking around the large compartment, Cheryl noticed that all the aliens had been removed. Only Humans were visible. A large number of Lamothian guards were present; they were not taking chances on another uprising occurring. “So, what do we do?”

“We stay put and hope Captain Bryan figures out something before we’re taken to the surface. Once we’re down there, I don’t know if he can do anything.”

-

Captain Bryan had the Princess Haven and the two escorts tucked in safely behind a medium-size asteroid, only twelve million kilometers from the space station that Daryl Berk was on. They had just received the initial signal from his homing beacon. Hopefully that meant that Cheryl, Mark, and Daryl were all together.

“If we leave the shelter of this asteroid, we’re bound to be detected,” said Trisha Greer at Tactical.

“I know,” replied Bryan. “I’m thinking about taking a shuttle from each of our ships and attempting a rescue. The tactical display reveals a lot of ships traveling about. This system has a robust asteroid mining industry. I think we could sneak in very close to the space station without arousing suspicion.”

Trisha frowned. “Then what? Even if we can rescue Cheryl, the shuttles full of people must get back here. A hell of a lot of warships orbit that planet.” On the tactical display, several hundred red threat icons were visible.

“We go in, grab Cheryl and the others, and then get the hell out,” replied Captain Bryan. “If we do it fast enough, the shuttles might get away before the Lamothians fully realize what is happening. If we get back to the yacht and the two support ships, then we make the transition into hyperspace. Once we’ve done that, we’re home free.”

“A lot of ifs in what you’re planning.”

“Do you have any other ideas? Keep in mind that we’re running out of time. They could take their captives to the planet shortly. No way we can pull off anything there.”

Trisha shook her head. “No, I can’t think of anything else. No matter what we do, it’ll be risky.”

“Check with our two escorts, and see how many former Marines are onboard. I want as big of an assault force as possible. I want everyone dressed in combat armor with heavy weapons. I imagine the fighting will be quite intense.”

-

Cheryl and Daryl, along with a number of other Humans, had been taken into another room. Here they were once more stripped and placed into a long line. Several Lamothians went down the line, touching their bodies, recording notes of the different Humans, as if checking to see how much meat was on their bones. Cheryl shuddered at the implications.

When Cheryl’s turn came, she tried not to flinch as the Lamothian reached out with one of its appendages and touched and squeezed various parts of her body. Cheryl was repulsed and felt very filthy. The Lamothian finished prodding her and moved on to Daryl.

When the Lamothians were done, the Humans were allowed to dress, were then led into another compartment with chairs, and were told to sit down and to be quiet.

“What are they doing?” Cheryl asked Daryl quietly.

“Processing us,” replied Daryl. “They’re making a record of each one of us to use in the food markets. As soon as they’ve accounted for everyone, I suspect they’ll take us down to the planet.” Daryl casually reached up and rubbed his shoulder, one of his fingers pressing a certain area. “I’ve increased the number of pulses sent by the locator beacon to let Captain Bryan know the situation is getting desperate.”

Cheryl nodded. Leaning back, she closed her eyes, not wanting to show how frightened she was. She knew the odds of her and Daryl surviving this ordeal were not very good.

-

Several hours passed, and more people were brought into the large compartment. All the chairs were taken by now, and the new arrivals had to sit on the floor. A lot of quiet conversations were had, with occasional furtive glances at the armed Lamothians standing on both sides of the large hatch.

“How big is this station?” asked Cheryl. She knew it had to be huge.

“From what I’ve read of the official reports,” Daryl whispered, “they process a lot of Humans through these stations. It’s probably as large as a major shipyard or even bigger.”

Cheryl nodded. “So probably thousands of Lamothians are onboard.” Cheryl just didn’t see how Captain Bryan could possibly rescue them. With every passing hour, she felt their situation growing more hopeless.

Looking around the room, Cheryl noted a large number of families. It frightened her to find all the children in this compartment. Many were too young to realize the danger they were in. A few even laughed and played with one another, their youthful innocence protecting them from knowing the horrid danger they were in.

“Try to get some rest,” suggested Daryl. “You may need your energy later.”

Cheryl closed her eyes, though she doubted if she could sleep. Instead her thoughts focused on Dylan and the last time they had been together. A slight smile tugged at her lips.

-

Captain Bryan sat in the copilot’s seat of his small shuttle, holding six Marines. The two shuttles from the escorts were larger and held ten Marines each. All were dressed in combat armor and armed with heavy energy rifles as well as pistols. Bryan hoped the commercial station was filled with more civilians than military types, who would recognize their uniforms as military immediately.

“How do you want to do this?” asked the pilot. All three shuttles were rapidly approaching the station.

“A number of shuttles and small craft have entered that one large hatch that’s open. Head for it, and we’ll try to land inside.” Bryan didn’t see any other way to easily enter the station.

The three shuttles approached the massive station. Around it a horde of small shuttles, cargo ships, and mining craft were constantly docking and leaving. The station was twice the size of anything in the Solar System. From what Bryan could see, the station itself was heavily armed. Luckily that ordnance was directed away from the station itself. A number of energy beam turrets were visible, though Bryan had not spotted any missile tubes. He counted at least twenty massive cargo ships docked to various ports. Also several Lamothian battlecruisers were on patrol in the nearby air space.

The open hatch they headed for was near the location of Daryl’s beacon. They must slip inside without drawing attention.

“Two small cargo ships are getting ready to enter that landing bay,” said Bryan, pointing them out. “Follow them in, and we’ll see if we can find a spot to land.”

The pilot nodded and fell in behind the two ships. Bryan saw on the small tactical display that his other two shuttles were right behind them. The two cargo ships entered the bay first, followed by the shuttle Bryan was in. The bay was brightly lit, and hundreds of small shuttles and cargo ships sat on the deck. It was the largest landing bay Bryan had ever seen. “Land over there,” he ordered, seeing a location on the bay’s deck with room for all three of his shuttles.

The pilot adjusted the course of the shuttle and quickly set it down in the indicated location, shutting off the engines. The other two shuttles landed close by.

Gazing out the cockpit windows, Bryan saw no reaction to their landing. Looking around the bay, he was surprised to see over a dozen alien races loading and unloading cargo. It was obvious the Lamothians hired others to do their heavy labor.

“I don’t see any guards,” said the pilot, as he looked around the bay. “Strange this landing bay isn’t guarded.”

“Why would it be? After all, who would dare to attack one of the seven races’ main planets?”

“Rear Admiral Masters did,” pointed out the pilot.

“Yes, he did,” replied Bryan, happy to have that reminder and the glimmer of hope before walking into the lion’s den. “I imagine the Lamothians are watching for large warships. Our shuttles don’t qualify. We’ll wait a few minutes before we disembark. You know what to do if all hell breaks loose before we return.”

The pilot nodded grimly.

Bryan left the cockpit to step into the main part of the shuttle to don his combat gear. When finished, he looked at the waiting Marines. He was glad he had found so many former Marines to fill spots in the crew rosters to operate Cheryl’s three ships.

“We’re ready,” said Sergeant Bray, holding an energy rifle cradled in his arms.

Bryan drew in a deep breath. He hoped this all worked out; yet he also knew the odds were good that none of them would leave this station. “Let’s go. Signal the other shuttles.”

The hatch slid open, and Bryan and the Marines rapidly descended the ramp. Glancing over at the other two shuttles, he noted the other Marines exiting them as well. “Form up, and we’ll head toward that large hatch, where the cargo is taken.” It was the hatch closest to Daryl’s beacon.

-

Sergeant Bray took the lead, the rest falling in around him. They quickly headed toward the hatch, keeping a wary eye on their surroundings. Surprisingly the aliens in the bay paid little attention to the armed Humans, as if they didn’t care.

“Keep an eye on them,” warned Sergeant Bray. “We’re not familiar with their species.”

They quickly reached the hatch and went through it. However, the other side was guarded. Four Lamothian guards stood in the corridor, watching the hatch and those coming through it. Without hesitation, the Marines blasted them down, before the guards could react and get off a shot.

Sergeant Bray stepped forward and drew his pistol, sending an energy bolt through the heads of each of the guards to ensure they were dead. “I don’t think they got off a warning. Keep in mind though that these corridors, including that landing bay, are probably under surveillance. We must move quickly. The Lamothians should know we’re here now and are heavily armed.”

“This way,” said Bryan, glancing at the small device he held which tracked the location of Daryl’s beacon. It was only a few hundred meters from here.

As the Marines hurried down the corridor, they killed every Lamothian they came across. Most were unarmed, but occasionally they ran across a guard. So far the Marines had suffered no losses. Suddenly alarms sounded, and protective bulkheads came slamming down, trapping the Marines in one section of the corridor. In front of them a large metal bulkhead had descended, blocking their path forward. Another had descended behind them.

Sergeant Bray looked at Captain Bryan. “They definitely know we’re here.”

-

Cheryl looked up in surprise when she heard the loud alarms sounding. “What’s going on?” She saw the guards at the open hatch hurriedly shut it, sealing everyone inside.

Daryl grinned. “I would say our rescue party is on the way. We must be prepared to move fast.”

Most of the people in the compartment were talking excitedly about what was happening.

Cheryl suddenly felt very guilty. “What will happen to all these people?” She was greatly worried about the families in this compartment.

Shaking his head, Daryl replied, “There’s nothing we can do. We don’t have any extra room on the Princess Haven. Besides, how would you choose who to take with us?”

-

Sergeant Bray eyed the thick metal bulkhead that barred their way forward. “Corporal Cobb, front and center!”

The corporal came forward, lugging a massive energy rifle, easily twice the size of the rifles everyone else carried.

“This bulkhead is in our way.”

The corporal grinned. “Not for long.” Without hesitation, he aimed the large rifle at the metal barrier and fired. An intense beam of energy struck the bulkhead and immediately melted through it. The corporal slowly controlled the beam until he had cut out a section large enough for them to pass through.

“Good job, Corporal,” said Bray approvingly. “Now let’s get moving.”

They had to burn their way through two more protective bulkheads before they reached the hatch where the beacon signal was coming from.

“I suspect quite a few Lamothian guards are on the other side of that hatch,” said Captain Bryan.

Sergeant Bray spent a moment examining the door and then turned to Corporal Cobb. “Can you blow this hatch?”

Cobb nodded, as he handed his heavy energy rifle to another Marine. “No problem.”

Cobb quickly attached some plastic explosives to the large metal hinges on the hatch and then stepped back. Everyone else stepped back as well.

“When it blows, we charge in and shoot every Lamothian in sight,” ordered Sergeant Bray. “Expect heavy return fire, as they must know we’re coming.” Bray turned toward Corporal Cobb and nodded.

Suddenly a loud explosion and smoke filled the corridor as the hatch was blown off its hinges and fell inward. Instantly the Marines charged through, their weapons firing as they saw the waiting Lamothians. Several Marines fell to the deck when hit by return fire.

-

Cheryl flinched when a loud explosion blew the hatch inward, crushing several Lamothians as the hatch fell on them. The rest turned their weapons toward the now-open hatch and fired. A large number of Marines in heavy combat armor poured through, firing into the waiting Lamothians. Several of the Marines were hit and fell to the deck.

The firefight lasted for nearly a minute, and, when the smoke cleared, all the Lamothians were down, as well as four of the Marines.

“Come on,” said Daryl, grabbing Cheryl by the hand and pulling her up. Both had flung themselves to the deck when the fighting had begun.

The two hurried to the hatch, where Captain Bryan waited. He looked over the large crowd of people, now staring at him with hope. “If any of you know how to pilot a spacecraft, a large number of small cargo ships are in the landing bay we came in through. I’ll leave it up to you how to board them and how to get out of here. I’m sorry we can’t be of any further help. We just don’t have the room.”

Bryan looked at Cheryl and Daryl. “I’m glad to see the two of you made it. Where’s Mark?”

Daryl shook his head. “He didn’t make it.”

Bryan nodded. “Let’s get out of here. The Lamothians are bound to be rushing reinforcements to this part of their station.”

Cheryl was placed in the center of the Marines, and Daryl was handed an energy pistol. The group quickly went back the way they had come, leaving four dead Marines behind. No way they could take the bodies with them and still make good time.

They were way down the corridor when the other people in the compartment began to follow them. Captain Bryan hoped some of them knew how to fly a ship.

-

Bryan’s group was nearly to the large hatch that led to the landing bay when they found their way blocked by a large contingent of heavily armed Lamothians. A brief firefight broke out, energy beams striking everywhere. Several Marines cried out in pain, and one fell to the deck with a burned hole in his chest. Several others were wounded, but all the Lamothians were cut down. Once more Sergeant Bray stepped forward and used his energy pistol to make sure all were dead.

“To the shuttles!” shouted Captain Bryan. “More Lamothians will be coming shortly.”

The remaining Marines hurried through the hatch and noted a few aliens, just standing around watching. All stayed away from the heavily armed Humans.

Cheryl kept looking around, hoping they made it to the shuttles without any more trouble. Already a number of Marines had died in her rescue. In moments they were at the shuttles and quickly boarded.

“We’ll wait a few minutes,” said Captain Bryan, as a large number of Human captives entered the bay and made their way toward a number of small cargo ships.

“Why are we waiting?” asked Cheryl. She wanted to get away from this station as soon as possible.

“This station is heavily armed. As soon as we exit the bay, we may be fired upon. I want to wait until some of those cargo ships leave, and then we’ll try to mix in with them, and I hope we can avoid the weapons fire.”

Cheryl frowned. “You’re sacrificing them so we can escape?”

Bryan shook his head. “No, they’ll have a chance to escape as well. It just depends on how good their pilots are.”

Looking out the cockpit window, Bryan watched as several hundred Human captives crowded themselves into six small cargo ships. A few moments later the first rose from the deck and darted toward the open bay hatch. Then two more rose and followed.

“Let’s go,” ordered Bryan. “Accelerate to maximum, and fly an evasive course. Expect weapons fire as soon as we exit the bay.”

The pilot nodded, and the shuttle lifted off. It quickly exited the bay, followed by the other two shuttles. In front of them they saw energy weapons fire targeting the cargo ships that had fled a few moments earlier. In a sudden blast of light one of the cargo ships exploded, throwing glowing debris across space. “They’re flying too straight, making themselves easy targets.”

A second cargo ship exploded as it was struck by two energy beams.

Behind the three shuttles, three more small cargo ships exited the bay and quickly accelerated. One flew evasively, while the other two went in a straight line.

Suddenly a bright light lit up the cockpit window. “We just lost one of our shuttles,” reported the pilot, as he put his shuttle into a sharp turn.

“Will we make it?” asked Captain Bryan.

“Yeah, we’re nearly out of range of the station’s weapons.”

They watched the tactical display, seeing two more of the cargo ships destroyed. By this time, Bryan’s shuttle was out of range of the station’s weapons.

“We must land as quickly as we can,” said Captain Bryan. “We’ll have battlecruisers coming after us shortly.”

“What about those two cargo ships?” asked Cheryl, pointing to the tactical display. “Can we take them with us?”

“Maybe,” replied the pilot, “if we can contact them.”

A few minutes later the small shuttle was back onboard the Princess Haven. Already Bryan had given the orders for the yacht and the two escorts to move away from the asteroid and to prepare to enter hyperspace. Both of the cargo ships had been contacted and were joining the small fleet.

As Bryan entered the Command Center of the yacht, the tactical display showed an alarming view. Seven battlecruisers and two battleships were headed toward the small fleet. “Set a course for the Empire and transmit it to all ships. We enter hyperspace in thirty seconds, and anyone not ready will be left behind.” Bryan knew that sounded harsh, but, once those Lamothian warships were in range, the game would be over.

-

Cheryl waited tensely as the seconds passed, and then the Princess Haven made the transition into the safety of hyperspace. On the tactical display, the two escorts were on the yacht’s flanks, the two cargo ships following close behind. Suddenly, on the very edge of the tactical display, nine red threat icons appeared.

“Damn!” uttered Captain Bryan, frowning. “I had hoped we would get far enough away so they couldn’t track us.”

“They can’t harm us, can they?” asked Cheryl worriedly.

“No,” replied Bryan, shaking his head. “As long as we stay in hyperspace, they can do nothing.”

“How long before we make it back to the Empire?”

“Five days,” answered Bryan. “Six before we reach a system safe enough for us to drop out of hyperspace.”

“Can those small cargo ships make it that far?” Cheryl was concerned they might have a problem, being so small. They were barely larger than her two escorts.

“I don’t know. I’ll talk to whoever is in charge of those two vessels. We can offer them some technical advice, but those are alien spacecraft, and we may not have much to offer.”

“So, what now?”

“I suggest you get some rest. We’re safe for now, so take advantage of it.”

Cheryl nodded. Her quarters onboard the Princess Haven were still quite luxurious. A good night’s sleep and getting into her own clothes sounded wonderful. “Can we contact the Empire with a hyperlight transmission?”

“Maybe,” replied Bryan. “We’ll try shortly. Now go get some rest.”

Cheryl turned toward her quarters. She could hardly believe her ordeal was over. She also felt guilty, knowing a number of good men and women had died in her rescue, something she must learn to live with.

Chapter Two

Dylan was in his quarters when his comm unit went off. “This is Admiral Cleemorl.”

“Admiral, I have some great news. The Princess Haven has just sent a hyperlight transmission, saying they have rescued Cheryl and are on their way back to the Empire.”

Dylan felt a massive flood of relief pass over him. “How did they manage that?” He was curious how the small yacht had gotten Cheryl back from the Lamothians. It seemed almost impossible to even conceive.

“They didn’t say. Two small civilian cargo ships with Humans onboard are with them. However, there is a problem.”

“What’s that?” Dylan let out a deep sigh. There always seemed to be a problem.

“Nine Lamothian warships are in close pursuit. Captain Bryan says there’s no way to lose them.”

“Set up some rendezvous coordinates. Make sure we can get there first. We’ll lay a little trap for the pursuing Lamothians. I’ll be in the Command Center shortly.” Dylan had to sit down for a minute, as he processed Cheryl’s rescue. His biggest fear had been abated. Now he needed to take care of those Lamothian warships.

-

It didn’t take long for Dylan to reach the Command Center. “What’s the current status?”

“We’re in contact with the Princess Haven and have set up coordinates for a rendezvous,” reported Captain Fulmar. “We used the emergency hyperlight frequency, so the Lamothians could not intercept our messages. We’ll be at the rendezvous coordinates in thirty hours. The Princess Haven should be there two hours later, if they maintain their current course and speed.”

“Once we reach the rendezvous coordinates, we’ll drop out of hyperspace and then cut our power usage to a minimum,” said Dylan. “With a little luck the Lamothian warships will never know we’re there, waiting for them. I also want to hold our communications to a minimum. We don’t want the Lamothians to realize the Princess Haven is meeting a fleet of Human warships.”

Even though Dylan wanted to hear Cheryl’s voice, he dared not risk endangering them further. In a little over thirty hours he would have her back in his arms. He also planned on giving her one hell of a lecture for disobeying his orders and for scaring him half to death.

-

Cheryl woke up feeling much better. She sat up, stretched, and yawned. Time for her to return to the Command Center to see if anything had changed in the last twelve hours. She could not believe how long she had slept.

After taking a quick shower and getting out a fresh change of clothes, she examined herself in her full-length mirror. She posed, turned sideways, and put her hands on her stomach, which was still relatively flat, and nodded in satisfaction. She then put on her clothes and left her quarters.

Reaching the Command Center, she noted everyone was busy. Captain Bryan was not here, probably resting in his quarters.

“The captain’s asleep,” said Trisha Greer, second in command and the tactical officer. “It will be a few hours before he’s back.”

“Anything happen while I was gone?” Cheryl saw her two support ships and was relieved to see the two cargo vessels were still with the Princess Haven.

Trisha grinned. “We contacted Admiral Cleemorl on the Themis. It seems he was on his way with a rescue fleet. We’ll be rendezvousing with him in about twenty hours.”

Cheryl had to sit down. What would she say to Dylan when she saw him? She suspected she would have a lot of apologizing to do. “How many ships does he have with him?”

“We don’t know. He didn’t want to risk the Lamothians finding out. I would guess he has a sizable number but not his entire fleet.”

Cheryl nodded. It was a relief knowing they would all be safe soon. She did have one concern. They had left an awful lot of Humans back in the Lamothian system. People who were doomed to become food in some obscene ritual on the planet. She wondered if Dylan could do anything about that. “How are the cargo ships doing?”

“They’ve had a few problems,” replied Trisha. “We’ve had our engineers and the support ships’ engineers helping them. They should make it to the rendezvous.”

Looking at the tactical display, Cheryl saw the nine red threat icons representing the pursuing Lamothian warships. She shuddered as she remembered what she had recently gone through. “Where’s Daryl?” She wanted to thank the Marine for everything he had done for her.

Trisha laughed. “Still asleep. From what I heard, he ate a huge meal, downed several beers, and then headed to bed.”

“He’s a good man,” said Cheryl. “I’m glad we had him and Mark onboard.” She knew Mark had probably saved her life. She would never forget him.

-

Hours later Admiral Cleemorl watched the tactical display. They were nearing the star system where they would rendezvous with Cheryl’s ships. A communications check earlier had confirmed Cheryl’s small fleet was still on course and on schedule.

“How do we handle this?” asked Captain Fulmar. “This must be coordinated for it to work.”

“We’ll drop out of hyperspace and form up in a half arc—facing toward where we expect Cheryl’s fleet to drop from hyperspace—and power down. As soon as they’re in range, we’ll have them drop out directly in front of the Themis, in the center of the arc. Once Cheryl’s fleet has joined us, the dreadnoughts will power back up and will move forward to cover her ships. A soon as the Lamothians appear, our battlecruisers will power up to move in to engage. With a little luck we’ll catch the Lamothians by surprise before they realize a fully armed fleet is waiting for them.”

Captain Fulmar frowned and slowly shook his head. “What you’re suggesting is risky. We’ll need Cheryl’s ships to drop out of hyperspace within one thousand kilometers of our warships.”

Dylan nodded. “We’ll give them better coordinates when they get closer. That should allow them to appear where we want them.”

-

A few minutes later the Themis dropped from hyperspace in the X-248-B star system, a red dwarf star with two ancient planets in orbit. The most distant planet was frozen solid and smaller than Mars. It resembled a giant ice ball, floating in space. The second planet was a large gas giant with six moons in orbit.

“Fleet assuming arc formation,” reported Captain Fulmar.

On the tactical display, the ships quickly moved into their assigned positions. On the main viewscreen, only a few of the ships were visible as the arc curved outward for nearly two thousand kilometers.

“Ships powering down.”

“The trap is set,” said Dylan. “How far out is Cheryl?”

“Two hours and twelve minutes,” reported Lieutenant Trisha Marks.

“Everything seems to be on schedule,” said Captain Fulmar.

Dylan leaned back in his command chair. “Yes, it does. Now we just wait and hope everything works out as we’ve planned.”

Dylan knew this would be a long two hours. Two hours in which he would worry constantly because Cheryl’s life and those with her would be at risk.

-

Cheryl was in the Command Center of the Princess Haven as it exited hyperspace, along with her two escorts and the two stolen cargo ships. Her gaze went to the main viewscreen, searching for the Themis and finally zoomed in on the flagship of First Fleet. Cheryl felt relief just knowing Dylan was so close.

“Detecting sixty battlecruisers and eleven dreadnoughts,” reported Luke Monty from his sensor console. “They seem to be in an arc formation, and we’re in the center. Dreadnoughts are moving toward us.”

“How soon before the Lamothians arrive?” asked Captain Bryan worriedly.

“Now!” replied Monty, as nine red threat icons appeared behind the Princess Haven. “Battlecruisers are moving forward as well.”

“Move us behind the dreadnoughts,” ordered Bryan. “Do it now!”

-

The Princess Haven and the two cargo ships surged forward, with the two escorts covering their rear. Even as they started moving, weapons fire erupted between the two opposing forces. The dreadnoughts and the battlecruisers opened fire as soon as the Lamothian ships dropped out of hyperspace. In massive explosions, four of the Lamothian ships were blown apart before their shields could stabilize. The other Lamothian ships found their energy shields covered in bursts of energy from exploding antimatter and fusion missiles. Energy beams flicked out, seeking any weaknesses in the shifting and wavering screens.

-

The Lamothian commander’s eyestalks quivered. “Send a hyperlight message back to the Confederation and to our home planet that we have flown into a trap. I doubt any of our ships will survive. Send data on the ships we face.”

The battleship suddenly shook violently, and numerous alarms sounded. The sound of tearing and stressed metal was prevalent. Smoke filled the Command Center as showers of sparks from overtaxed consoles exploded across the compartment.

The Lamothian commander used four of his six appendages just to stand upright, as his battleship fought desperately to survive the onslaught.

“Hyperlight message sent,” reported the communications officer. “I sent a data package as well.”

The lights in the Command Center suddenly dimmed and stayed that way. Several consoles shut down completely from a lack of power.

“I’ve diverted all power to the energy screen,” the systems officer informed the commander. “Energy screen is down to 18 percent effectiveness.”

The Lamothian commander’s eyestalks focused on the ship’s main viewscreen still locked on the five small ships they had chased. The Humans were now out of his reach, and he wondered what the consequences would be for his home planet in allowing them to escape. Suddenly a loud tearing noise was heard, followed by the sound of escaping atmosphere. The lights went out, and suddenly it felt very cold. Then, in a searing blast of heat and light, the Lamothian commander and his crew died.

-

Admiral Cleemorl watched the main viewscreen, as the last Lamothian warship was blown apart. The trap had worked, and the Princess Haven and the ships with her had survived.

“Admiral, Cheryl is coming over in her shuttle,” reported Lieutenant Newsome. “She wants to talk to you about the other Human captives still held in the Lamothian system they escaped from.”

Dylan and Captain Fulmar exchanged glances.

“Is there anything we can do?” asked Fulmar.

Dylan slowly shook his head. “I don’t see what. We only have a portion of our fleet, and, even if we had all of First Fleet, I would hesitate risking it by going that deep into Confederation space. Those Lamothians surely sent at least one transmission to the Confederation before they died. No chance of surprising them again.”

-

Cheryl went onboard the Themis and was quickly escorted to the Command Center, where Dylan waited. As soon as she entered, she wanted to rush into his arms, but just too many people were watching, and he was an admiral.

Even so, she was surprised when Dylan rose from his command chair and crossed the room to give her a big hug and a long kiss on the lips. Several of the officers in the Command Center laughed, and the women smiled.

“I’m glad to see you’re back,” said Dylan, as he released Cheryl. “You had me worried.”

“I screwed up,” confessed Cheryl. “I should have listened to you. I just never expected the Lamothians to do what they did.” A serious look crossed Cheryl’s face. “Dylan, they are holding several million Humans captive, as well as tens of thousands of aliens taken from the Highland Station System. The Lamothians have entire families. Men, women, and even children. If you don’t do something, they’ll all be consumed as food.”

Dylan let out a deep sigh. “What do you expect me to do? I only have a portion of my fleet with me, and that Lamothian system will be heavily defended now, with the escape and the loss of this Lamothian fleet.”

Cheryl bit her lip and then answered. She had been thinking about this for several days now. “Threaten to destroy their world if they don’t turn over their captives.”

“Destroy their world?” replied Dylan, as a frown crossed his face. “They no doubt deserve it, but I don’t see how we can accomplish that with the fleet I’ve currently got at my disposal.”

“That’s why you’re an admiral. Please figure something out.” Cheryl couldn’t bear the thought of all those families dying in such a gruesome manner.

Dylan returned to his command chair and sat down. “Several million people?”

“Or more,” replied Cheryl.

-

Dylan blinked his eyes. Cheryl was asking him to do the impossible.

“What if we dropped out of hyperspace close to their planet?” suggested Captain Fulmar. “We inform them that we’ll nuke their cities unless they turn over all of their captives.”

Dylan looked at Fulmar. His captain really wanted to rescue the captives too.

“Contact Captain Bryan and see if this planet has a defensive grid around it.” If it did, Fulmar’s plan would never work. The fleet would be blasted to bits as soon as it exited hyperspace.

Dylan considered if it was even conceivable to do as Captain Fulmar had suggested. Most likely a number of Lamothian warships in orbit would have to be dealt with. It would take a few minutes at least for his threat to reach the proper government authorities. During that time they could be engaged in heavy combat.

“No defense grid,” reported Lieutenant Newsome, as he spoke to the communications officer on the Princess Haven. “However, several very large space stations and shipyards are in orbit, and all are armed.”

“Have Captain Bryan send over any scans he may have taken. I want to see what we would be up against, if we attempt a rescue.”

Cheryl reached out and squeezed Dylan’s hand. “I better get back to the Princess Haven, in case you decide to try.”

Dylan nodded. “I’ll assign a couple battlecruisers to escort you to the Empire.”

Cheryl smiled. “Don’t be gone too long.”

Dylan watched as Cheryl left the Command Center. He wanted to ask her so much and to tell her even more, but now was not the time.

“Putting the scans up on the main screen,” reported Captain Fulmar.

-

For nearly an hour, Dylan and Captain Fulmar studied the scans, made plans, discarded them, and then started over. Finally they had a plan that had the potential to work.

“It’ll be dangerous,” said Fulmar, folding his arms across his chest.

Dylan nodded in agreement. “If we’re going to do this, we must go now. Who knows how many of the captives the Lamothians are eating even as we speak.”

Captain Fulmar shuddered. The thought grossed him out, as well as everyone else. The Lamothians must be taught a lesson. “I’ve assigned two battlecruisers to escort the Princess Haven and the other four ships back to the Empire. They should be leaving shortly. I’ve also assigned a few engineers to help onboard the cargo ships.”

Dylan nodded. “As soon as they’re gone, we’ll leave as well. Set a course for the Lamothian world where the captives are being held.”

-

A few minutes later the Princess Haven and her escorts vanished from the system, as they entered hyperspace for the journey back to the Empire. At nearly the same time the Themis set out for the Lamothian planet. It was time to teach the Lamothians a lesson they would never forget.

Chapter Three

Dylan was in the Command Center of the Themis. In another hour they would drop from hyperspace in one of the primary Lamothian star systems. Dylan and Captain Fulmar had spent hours working on a plan that would protect the fleet as well as force the Lamothians to turn over all of their captives, both Human and nonhuman.

“So we drop the fleet out in three separate formations 1,800 kilometers above the planet,” said Captain Fulmar. “Can our hyperspace drives handle that?”

“I spoke to our chief engineer, and he says they can. He thinks we could go as low as eight hundred kilometers, but that would be pushing it.”

On the tactical display, the Lamothian planet appeared, as well as all the space stations and shipyards in orbit. Locations were marked where the three sections of the fleet were to go into orbit. Once in orbit, the Themis would broadcast a prerecorded message. The message was very simple. If the fleet was fired upon, it would bombard the planet with antimatter weapons until all life had been extinguished. In order to avoid this, the planetary government must contact the Themis.

Captain Fulmar blinked his eyes and stood up straight. “I think we’re ready. No matter what we do, this will be dangerous.”

Dylan leaned back in his command chair and took a long drink from the cup he held. It was an iced tea, and it felt extremely refreshing. “Have all ships go to Condition Two, since we’re deep in Confederation space. We’ll go to Condition One ten minutes before emergence.”

Captain Fulmar nodded and quickly gave the order. The fleet had already been at Condition Three.

Looking at the tactical display, Dylan noted the nearer star systems. Most were uninhabited. Those that were inhabited had Confederation warships in them. The Confederation controlled over sixty thousand inhabited star systems in this section of the galaxy. Every year it grew larger and larger. If something wasn’t done, a time would come when the Confederation would control the entire galaxy. Once that happened, all hope of freedom would be lost forever.

-

The hour passed, and the Themis and the rest of its fleet exited hyperspace around the Lamothian planet. As soon as it did, the message Admiral Cleemorl had recorded began broadcasting. The fleet made no hostile move, other than to raise its energy shields and to open its missile tubes.

“Scan those space stations,” ordered Dylan. “I want to know how many Humans are on them.” Dylan hoped many of the Humans who had been brought to this system were still onboard. It would make everything much easier.

Lieutenant Casella spent nearly a full minute doing scans and then turned toward the admiral with a confused look. “I’m not detecting any Human life signs, sir.”

Captain Fulmar looked concerned. “Where are they? As many as they took, I would have expected some to still be onboard the space stations.”

“On the planet,” said Dylan, looking at a viewscreen that showed the Lamothian world. “They’ve all been taken down there.”

Captain Fulmar and Dylan exchanged glances. They both knew what this could mean.

“Admiral, Lamothian battlecruisers and battleships are moving toward our vessels.”

“Message from the surface,” reported Lieutenant Newsome. “If we fire one single missile, our fleet will be destroyed. We are to surrender and to allow our ships to be boarded.”

Dylan had expected that response. “Tell them we won’t fire one single missile but hundreds. Also tell them we want to speak with a top government official immediately.”

“All the Lamothian warships in the system are converging on our ships,” warned Lieutenant Casella.

“We’ll be greatly outnumbered,” said Captain Fulmar, as he watched the tactical display.

Looking at the display, Dylan saw multiple red threat icons. “Tell them if a single one of their ships fires upon us, we’ll launch every missile we have at the planet.” Dylan hoped it didn’t come to that. But the Lamothians had to know he was serious.

-

On the surface of the planet, the Lamothians stared at one another with consternation at the appearance of a heavily armed Human fleet in orbit.

“We must destroy them immediately,” declared the Lamothian in charge of food allocations.

“Why are they here?” asked another.

“They threaten to attack our world. We must find out what they want,” said the Lamothian in charge of the orbital space stations.

The planetary governor listened and then made his decision. “We will contact their leader and see why they are here. In the meantime, the military will move our fleet into position to destroy them. We do not negotiate with inferior races.” The governor just wanted to stall for time until his fleet was in position, and then they would annihilate the intruders.

-

Dylan watched worriedly as the Lamothian fleet closed in around his ships. “Scan the surface for signs of Human life.”

Lieutenant Casella nodded and focused the ship’s powerful sensors downward to sweep the planet. It would not take long to locate any Humans who might be on the planet’s surface.

“I have the planetary governor on the comm,” reported Lieutenant Newsome.

Dylan nodded. He was actually a little surprised the governor had answered. “This is Admiral Cleemorl of the Human Empire dreadnought Themis. We have come for the Humans and other intelligent species you took forcefully from Highland Station.”

“You are in Confederation space without permission,” replied the governor in a cold and steady voice. “The penalty for that is death. There is no longer a Human Empire.”

“I will ask only one more time,” replied Dylan, unfazed by the governor’s threat. “I want all the Humans and other intelligent species you are holding against their will on your planet brought up to the space stations and loaded onboard cargo ships. If you fail to do this, I will bombard your entire planet with antimatter missiles.”

Silence came from the comm, as Dylan looked at Lieutenant Casella. “What are you picking up?”

“Nothing,” she said, her face turning pale. “I’m not picking up any signs of Humans and only a few nonhumans.”

“What happened to them?” asked Lieutenant Marks.

The comm suddenly became active again as the Lamothian governor spoke. “The food animals you refer to have already been consumed in our annual feasts of celebration. It is our right as Lamothians to feed upon subintelligent species. We have done so for tens of thousands of years and will continue to do so for thousands more.”

Dylan leaned back in his command chair, stunned. Several million Humans had been taken from the Highland Station System. Now he was being told they had all been consumed by the Lamothians. He suddenly felt nauseous and very angry. There had been women and children who had been taken. Now this Lamothian governor was telling him they had all been eaten.

“What now?” asked Captain Fulmar, his face pale in shock. “We can’t let them get away with this.”

Dylan looked up at the large tactical display. His ships were surrounded by Lamothian warships. A battle could break out at any moment. “All ships are to stand by to launch two full spreads of antimatter missiles. The first at the encircling warships and the second at the planet. As soon as the second wave of missiles has left the launch tubes, they are to enter hyperspace and rendezvous at the red dwarf system where we encountered Cheryl and her ships.”

“We’ll lose some ships,” warned Fulmar. “It’ll take several seconds to launch, and, while we’re doing that, those Lamothian warships will open fire.”

“It’s a risk I’m willing to take. We must teach the Lamothians they cannot take Humans or other races to be used in their food feasts. We warned them once before, and now they will be taught a lesson. It’ll cost them one of their worlds.” Dylan also realized that, if Captain Bryan had not rescued Cheryl, she would have been one of the helpless victims consumed. The thought sent a cold chill over Dylan.

Captain Fulmar quickly transmitted the orders to the other ships in the fleet and the reason why. All the Humans taken from Highland Station had been consumed by the Lamothians.

Dylan looked at the blue-white planet on the ship’s main viewscreen and slowly nodded his head. “Launch!”

From the Themis and the other sixty-nine ships in his rescue fleet, antimatter missiles belched forth from the launch tubes and headed toward the enemy warships. A few seconds later more missiles launched, heading toward the planet. At the same time Dylan’s fleet turned and accelerated away from the planet and entered hyperspace.

-

The Lamothian warships, upon detecting the missile launches, immediately fired on the Human ships. Antimatter missiles and fusion energy beams rapidly tore half a dozen battlecruisers into glowing wreckage. Missiles struck the Lamothian warships, blowing several apart. In the confusion a large number of Human missiles from the second wave managed to pass by the Lamothian warships and enter the planet’s atmosphere.

In the upper atmosphere of the planet, small explosions marked where energy beams had intercepted and had destroyed some of the missiles. The Human fleet had launched nearly eight hundred antimatter missiles at the planet, and a large number of them were getting through.

The orbiting Lamothian warships were forced to ignore the disappearing Human fleet and to concentrate on annihilating the deadly missiles, heading rapidly toward the surface. The Lamothians sent missile after missile to intercept the Human missiles destroying some of them. However, too many Human missiles had been launched and many of them were getting through.

The first Human missile reached the surface and exploded with a force of over one hundred megatons. A massive fireball rose above a large Lamothian city as a sun like heat swept outward, accompanied by a powerful blast wave. Buildings were leveled and vegetation incinerated. Nearly four million Lamothians died in that one blast.

Above the city, a huge mushroom cloud formed, then superheated air rushed back toward the center of the blast, taking debris, ashes, and everything else in its path with it.

Across the planet, 217 antimatter missiles made it to the surface. All ranged from one hundred megatons to over three hundred. Dams broke; forests burned, and structures burst into flames. All over the planet, devastation and death encompassed nearly every location. The dust, ash, and debris from the explosions reached high into the atmosphere, cutting off the sunlight. A cold and deadly darkness spread across the world.

In orbit, the commanders of the Lamothian warships gazed in shock at their devastated planet below. Already reports were being sent to the other Lamothian star systems as well as to the Great Council. A world of the seven races had been destroyed!

Cargo ships and warships sent down shuttles to rescue as many survivors as possible. The shipyards and space stations sent their shuttles and cargo ships as well. Calls were sent out to other nearby worlds to send help. It would take days, perhaps weeks, to search all the rubble for survivors.

-

Several days later the Themis dropped out of hyperspace in the red dwarf system. Over the next hour the rest of the fleet straggled in.

“What did we lose?” asked Dylan. He knew some of his battlecruisers and their crews had been destroyed. He had witnessed those losses on the viewscreens.

Captain Fulmar walked over and checked the sensors. “Looks like we’re missing eight battlecruisers and one dreadnought. All our other ships and their crews are here, though it appears several ships have battle damage.”

Dylan nodded. “Keep the fleet at Condition Two. I’ll contact Rear Admiral Masters and inform him of what we’ve done. He in turn can pass the information on to the High Princess.”

Dylan had already prepared a message explaining his actions. It was very detailed and even contained videos of the missiles being launched toward the Lamothian planet.

Going to communications, Dylan had the communications officer activate the hyperlight transmitter and aim it toward the Mall Star Cluster, where Rear Admiral Masters should be.

“Rear Admiral Masters, this is Admiral Cleemorl. We have just returned from an attempted rescue of the captives from Highland Station taken by the Lamothians. It’s my sad duty to report we were too late. By the time we got to the Lamothian system, all the captives had already been consumed.

“As punishment, I destroyed the planet. I’m attaching a data packet with more information on our actions and the reasons why. Please inform the High Princess. We’ll return to the Empire in a few more days, and, when we’re safely back, I will contact you again. Admiral Cleemorl of First Fleet out.”

Dylan then had Lieutenant Newsome transmit the data packet.

“Well, what happens now?” asked Captain Fulmar.

Sitting back down in his command chair, Dylan looked at his second in command. “We will stay here for a full day, while our ships conduct any necessary repairs. Then we’ll head for the Vortex Worlds and join up with the rest of First Fleet.”

“Do you think there will be any repercussions from destroying one of the Lamothian worlds?”

Dylan let out a deep breath. “There are always repercussions. We’ll just have to wait to see what they are.” Dylan was also anxious to get back to Golan Four and speak to Cheryl. They had a lot to talk about, and some of it might not be too pleasant.

-

The Great Council was once more gathered in an emergency session. For the first time since its existence, a world of the seven races had been attacked and destroyed.

“The food markets of Zaneth have been annihilated,” spoke the Lamothian councilor. “They were the second greatest of all the Lamothian worlds. Only our homeworld of Lamothia has better. In addition, nearly two and a half billion Lamothians died in the attack.”

“We told you to stop consuming Humans in your feasts,” said Ardon Reull. “Yet you sent a warfleet to the Highland Station System and removed several million Humans and tens of thousands of other semi-sentients.”

“It was our ten-year celebration of the High Feast,” replied the Lamothian defensively. “We did not have the necessary semi-sentient food supplies.”

“The High Princess warned us what would happen if we attacked any of their civilians,” said Klug, the Morphene representative. “You brought this upon yourselves.” The Morphene was like a giant blob, with its form constantly shifting.

“Highland Station is one of our worlds now,” spoke the Lamothian. “These new Humans from Earth are too dangerous.”

The Zang councilor Cryler stretched out his large wings and spoke in his grating whistling voice. “How much of their Empire do we currently control?”

“Over 80 percent,” answered Ralor Conn of the Zynth.

“That is not good,” replied Cryler. “That means they have retaken control of nearly two hundred of their planets, including all of their core worlds.”

“How many warships do we currently have in Human space?” asked Klug.

“We have sent more over the last week,” replied Reull. “We currently have nearly three thousand ships patrolling the Human worlds we control.”

“What of Earth? It is still a threat.”

“It will be dealt with at a later date.”

“No!” spoke Councilor Damora of the Morag. The Morag were a simian race and stood nearly ten feet tall. They very seldom spoke, but, when they did, everyone listened. “Earth must be dealt with immediately. It represents the greatest threat. Without Earth, the revolt in Human space will come to a quick end. We must mount an immediate and overwhelming attack on the Earth star system.”

The rest of the council was stunned at this impassioned speech from their least-populated and most secluded race of the seven. With less people, they had less fleets as well.

Little did the Great Council know, but the Morag inhabited 112 planets in the Confederation and hundreds of inhabited moons. They had massive warfleets, but they very seldom sent any of them far from their own systems.

“What do you propose?” asked Reull. He had long since learned to respect the wishes of the Morag.

“All the seven races should contribute warships to use against Earth. We will not make the same mistakes as were made in the last two attacks. A Morag admiral will lead the combined fleets.”

There was silence in the council chambers as the other councilors thought over what the Morag proposed.

“Let us recess for the day and contact our respective military leaders,” suggested Reull. “We will meet two days from today to vote on Councilor Damora’s motion.” Reull knew they would pass the motion. No one ever dared to disagree with the Morag; they were just too powerful.

-

Admiral Cleemorl was in the Command Center of the Themis when a broadcast from High Princess Layla Starguard was received. The entire crew listened as she spoke.

“This is High Princess Layla Starguard of the Human Empire. Several weeks ago a fleet from the Lamothian world of Zaneth attacked the Highland Station System, taking several million Humans and thousands of nonhumans as captives. A rescue fleet under the command of Admiral Dylan Cleemorl was sent to retrieve the captives from the Lamothians. Upon arrival Admiral Cleemorl learned that all the Humans as well as the nonhumans had been consumed in feasts upon the planet.

“I warned the Lamothians weeks ago that there would be consequences if they continued to feed upon Humans. As a result of their violation of my edict, Admiral Cleemorl used antimatter missiles to destroy the Lamothian planet. The Lamothians brought this attack upon themselves, and no one is to blame but them.

“As I said in the past, and I will reiterate now, we will not tolerate Humans being used for food. The consequences for doing so will be swift and severe.”

“That’s it,” said Lieutenant Newsome.

Captain Fulmar looked at the admiral. “Do you think that will stop the Confederation from retaliating?”

“Who knows,” replied Dylan. “We must be ready for anything.”

Calling up a star chart on the main viewscreen, Dylan noted they were nearly back in Human space. In another day and a half, they would be at the Vortex Worlds and would join up with the rest of First Fleet.

Relaxing some, Dylan knew that, by now, Cheryl would be safely in the Mall Star Cluster and hopefully on Golan Four. As soon as they arrived at the Vortex Worlds, he would send a hyperlight communication to confirm that.

-

Two days had passed, and the Great Council was once more in session.

“This High Princess Layla Starguard continues to threaten us,” said the Lamothian councilor. “My people demand we take appropriate actions against the rebellious Human worlds immediately.”

“And risk more of our worlds being destroyed?” asked Reull. “I believe our best strategy is to continue to engage their warships as they near the Confederation and to isolate their worlds individually. In time we will force them back to the Mall Star Cluster.”

“We can solve everything by destroying Earth,” spoke Damora of the Morag. “We must send a combined fleet and annihilate the Earth star system. That will bring this war to a quick and rapid close. The Morag will commit two thousand warships to this endeavor.”

“The Earth star system is heavily fortified,” said the Lamothian councilor. “Twice we have failed to destroy it.”

“The Morag were not involved,” replied Damora. “If the other six races will provide one thousand warships each, our combined fleet should overwhelm any defenses and end this menace to the Confederation.”

A little more debate was had, but everyone knew what the outcome would be. No one ever went against the Morag.

-

The Themis dropped out of hyperspace in the Jalot Four system, where most of First Fleet was on patrol. First Fleet was busy patrolling all seven of the heavily populated worlds in the small star cluster.

“Communications from Captain Manson of the Taggert,” reported Lieutenant Newsome. “He’s officially turning command of First Fleet back over to you.”

Dylan nodded. “Inform Captain Manson to come to the Themis for a debriefing. I want to know everything that’s happened while we’ve been gone.”

Dylan then sent a hyperlight message to Cheryl. They had a lot they still must talk about.

Chapter Four

High Princess Layla Starguard was on a tour of the Imperial Palace and the progress being made in its reconstruction. Along with her were Krista and Governor Darl Stein, as well as her normal complement of Imperial Guards.

“I can’t believe so much progress has been made!” exclaimed Krista, smiling broadly. They stood in one of the sky towers that reached up to touch the clouds.

“The Royal Quarters and the floors directly above and below them have been fully restored,” said Stein. “The entire Royal Wing of the Palace should be completely restored in another two weeks. At that time you could move back into the Palace, if you wish.”

“I wish to,” said Krista, her eyes alight with excitement. “I can’t wait to decorate my quarters.”

Governor Stein smiled. He enjoyed seeing the happy looks on the faces of the two Royal Princesses. “We have a rather large budget set aside for furnishings. We want the Imperial Palace to be as resplendent as it was in the old days.”

Layla stopped to gaze out of one of the large open windows. Two of the original sky towers had fallen, and both were being rebuilt. Several of the sky bridges were in a bad state as well. With a sigh, she knew there was still a lot of work to be done.

“How is progress coming on the House of Worlds?” Layla was anxious to get that done. She wanted to make Golan Four the center of government for the Empire, and that could not be done until the House of Worlds was fully rebuilt.

“We’re ahead of schedule,” replied Stein. “We should have it completely refurbished in another two months.”

From where Layla stood, they were about four hundred feet above the ground. She noted hundreds of workers and construction robots swarming over the Imperial Grounds. Every day her home looked more and more like it did when she and Krista had been forced to flee. “You’re doing a fantastic job. I never would have dreamed that so much progress could be made so swiftly.”

“I firmly believe that, when the Imperial Palace is fully restored, and when you and Princess Krista have moved back in, it will be a great day for the Empire.”

“High Princess, you have a meeting with the military leaders shortly,” reminded Captain Emerson.

Layla nodded. She had not forgotten, but it was one of Captain Emerson’s duties to make sure she wasn’t late for any functions.

-

Returning to the lower level, where the Imperial Court was located, they made their way to a large conference room. As Layla entered, everyone stood and bowed slightly. Waiting for her was Resistance Fleet Admiral Dom Marloo, Rear Admiral Derrick Masters, Councilor Windom of the resistance, and General Lyra Gantts, commander of all ground forces.

Layla and Krista went to the head of the conference table and sat down. As soon as they were seated, everyone else took their seats.

“Has Admiral Cleemorl made it back with First Fleet?” asked Layla. She had met briefly with Cheryl, who had described in detail the horrors she had been submitted to. After listening to Cheryl, Layla fully approved of the actions Admiral Cleemorl had taken.

Derrick nodded. “Yes, a few hours ago. He’s currently in the Jalot Four system.”

Layla turned toward Resistance Fleet Admiral Marloo. He had not formally been announced as having the position of fleet admiral, though he had already taken the job. “Will you give us a quick rundown on the current status of the war?”

Fleet Admiral Marloo nodded. “Yes, High Princess. We currently have full control of the Mall Star Cluster, the Vortex Worlds, the Lamina Stars, the Haven Nebula, and the worlds associated with Lydol Four. That gives us complete control of forty-three of the primary worlds of the Empire. In addition we have defensive grids around another 160 worlds.”

Layla blinked her eyes and spoke. “So we control about two hundred of the one thousand worlds of the Empire?” She had been hoping for more.

“Yes, High Princess. However, the Confederation is attacking the worlds with defense grids where we have no fleet units. The seven races are slowly retaking those systems, one system at a time. We are putting up powerful defensive grids around the forty-three worlds I mentioned earlier, and we have fleet units which can defend them.”

“Many of those worlds are protected by Resistance Fleets,” added Councilor Windom. “We are building more ships, but it takes time.”

“How soon before we can build our own warships? Earth can only supply so many, and the Resistance Fleets need more battlecruisers.” Layla knew their resources were already stretched.

“We have already started construction in some of the shipyards in the Mall Cluster,” replied General Gantts. “It will be two months before the first battlecruiser is completed and nearly three months for the first dreadnought. We have already converted fourteen shipyards, and another ten will come online within the week. Construction of warships has also begun at the Vortex Worlds and the Lamina Stars.”

“So, we fight a holding action until more warships are ready,” said Princess Krista. “Can we do that?”

“We think so,” answered Fleet Admiral Marloo. “We may lose most of the systems only defended by defensive grids, but we believe we can retake them quickly enough when our fleets are rebuilt. Once warships come online from the shipyards, construction will increase very rapidly, as we get our construction techniques standardized.”

“How soon before Rear Admiral Barnes arrives with Third Fleet?”

“Late next week,” replied Derrick.

“Her fleet will be assigned to protect the Lamina Stars and the Haven Nebula,” Fleet Admiral Marloo explained. “We’ll pull some of the Resistance Fleets back to protect Lydol Four and the five worlds that are the main part of the resistance in that region.”

Layla looked at some notes she had brought along. “What have you done with Rear Admiral Mendoza and Rear Admiral Carrie?” Both admirals had brought additional warships and cargo ships loaded with war materials.

“Rear Admiral Carrie has been assigned to the battlecarrier task group defending Golan Four. She currently has her flagship, the dreadnought Exeter, ten battlecruisers, and nine battlecarriers. She’s also in charge of the attack interceptors based on the surface of Golan Four.”

“What about Rear Admiral Mendoza?”

“He’s returning to the Solar System with the empty cargo ships.”

“How soon before we can build our own interceptors?”

General Gantts smiled. “By the end of the week. We’ve built ten construction facilities on Golan Four. The first interceptor should roll off the production lines a week after that. Once we’re satisfied with the prototypes, we’ll move to full production. We believe we can easily produce two hundred per week.”

“It’ll take some time to train the pilots,” added Derrick.

“We’ve already sent out calls to the people to join the military,” added General Gantts. “We’ve had a very good response from all the core worlds.”

“What about the Vortex Worlds and the Lamina Stars?”

“They’re doing the same. As soon as we’ve verified the production prototypes of the interceptors are acceptable, we’ll start building production facilities on Jalot Four and Lamora Seven.”

General Gantts added, “We’re still intensifying all the defensive grids in the core systems, as well as the Vortex Worlds and the Lamina Stars.”

“What about the Haven Nebula?”

“Things are a little slower there,” replied Fleet Admiral Marloo. “We’re still concentrating on the defensive grids. We should have them up to full strength within two more weeks. In the meantime we have two task groups from the Resistance Fleet protecting those worlds.”

“What are the Confederation fleets doing?” Layla was concerned that they would launch a full-scale attack before the Empire was ready.

“They’re retaking one star system at a time,” replied Fleet Admiral Marloo. “They don’t seem to be in any hurry. They come in, scan the system, and then a few days later a fleet arrives. If there are any defenses, they are destroyed, and then the Confederation fleet leaves a few ships in orbit before going on to the next world.”

“Are they bombing the planets?” This was Layla’s greatest fear, that billions could be lost in this war.

Marloo shook his head. “No, they’re just isolating the systems. So far there have been no reprisals, since you sent the message informing the Confederation of what the results would be if they bombed any of our cities. I would also say that Admiral Cleemorl’s decision to destroy Zaneth after finding out what they had done to the captives from the Highland Station System has further reinforced that threat.”

Layla leaned back and looked at her advisors. She placed great trust in what they told her. “Is there any reason not to have a meeting of the House of Worlds next week?” She had already postponed this meeting once, after finding out about Highland Station.

“I don’t see any reason to postpone it again,” said Derrick. “However, it might be wise to inform the governors of the outer worlds that their presence is not required, just to send a representative of their world. Their attendance should be left up to them, since their outlying worlds are in more danger right now than the core worlds.”

“Agreed,” replied Layla. “We will have a number of announcements to make during this first meeting of the House of Worlds.” Layla smiled and looked at Derrick. She planned on announcing their engagement at the meeting.

“We must build some military bases for training and to house the interceptors,” said Governor Stein. “I’ve already talked to the planetary council, and we’ve purchased land and have already started some construction.”

Krista had been silent for most of the meeting, and now she asked a question. “How long will it take to build a big-enough fleet to allow us to retake all the Empire?”

Derrick and Fleet Admiral Marloo exchanged glances.

“Years,” Marloo finally replied. “We’ll concentrate on regions with large Human populations first. As we bring more worlds back into the Empire, the greater will become our ability to build warships.”

Krista had been afraid of that. “I just hope someday I’ll get to see the Empire restored completely.”

Fleet Admiral Marloo nodded. “I promise someday that will happen. It’ll just take a few years of hard work.”

-

After the meeting Layla, Krista, and Derrick were in the Royal Court, looking at all the paintings, tapestries, and statues that lined the walls.

“I’m so glad they saved all these,” said Krista, as she stopped to admire a tapestry of a landscape from an alien world. “I used to spend hours walking around the Palace, just admiring all the artwork.”

Layla held Derrick’s hand. “I can’t wait to announce our engagement, so we can date more openly.”

Derrick laughed, giving Layla’s hand a gentle squeeze. “Most people already suspect. We’ll just be confirming what they already know.”

“Tomorrow they’ll bring in the tables and chairs for the first meeting of the House of Worlds. We’ll put the core worlds in the center, with the others surrounding them.” The meeting would be held here at the Imperial Palace, since the main hall the House of Worlds wasn’t quite ready. Plus, with all the construction going on, it wasn’t considered safe either.

In the distance, Derrick heard the sounds of hammering and other related noises. “We’ll ask some of the construction to stop while the meeting is going on, in order to reduce the noise level.”

“That can easily be arranged,” replied Layla. She had to admit the construction noise was quite loud at times.

“I’m going to start picking out the furniture for my quarters,” announced Krista, a pleased and excited look in her eyes. “I can’t wait to move back into the Palace.”

“Just don’t go overboard,” cautioned Layla. “We don’t want to bankrupt the Empire.”

Krista blushed slightly. She had a habit of overdoing it.

“I’ll have Emira go with you,” added Layla. “She’ll help keep the costs down.”

Krista frowned. “I don’t want my quarters to look like an old lady lives there.”

Derrick laughed. He couldn’t help it. Sometimes Krista acted more like a teenager than a twenty-two-year-old Princess.

“I think you might be surprised,” replied Layla. “Let her go one time, and, if you don’t like what she picks out, I’ll let you pick out everything instead.”

“One time only?” asked Krista, as she thought it over. “One time and then I can pick out what I want?” She was already picturing how her quarters would look when she was finished.

“Let’s get back to the Starburst. I’m hungry,” said Derrick. Recently they had been taking their meals in the cafeteria on the ship designated for the Princesses, while the Palace remained under construction. Governor Stein had insisted on furnishing several chefs to prepare meals for the Princesses as well as the crew. Morale onboard the ship had never been higher.

-

Admiral Cleemorl was pleased with his latest orders. He was to return to Golan Four to attend the first meeting of the House of Worlds. It would also give him a chance to see Cheryl, who was now staying in the capital. He had already informed Captain Manson that he would be in charge again. Dylan also took along Governor Lindsay Littrel of Jalot Four. She had requested a ride on his flagship to attend the meeting but felt uncomfortable going in a civilian passenger liner, considering the current situation with the Confederation.

“We’ll be ready to depart in twenty minutes,” reported Captain Fulmar. “Governor Littrel is already onboard with four people she brought. I’ve had them put in the guest quarters.”

Dylan nodded. “I’ll meet with her later. I want to stop by Vidon Seven and Helgoth on the way. Both worlds have defensive grids but only a few resistance warships to help defend them. Fleet Admiral Marloo has asked if we would do a quick inspection of each to see what needs to be done to ensure we can hold both of those star systems from the Confederation.”

“We should take a larger escort, just in case,” suggested Fulmar.

“Have three dreadnoughts and twenty battlecruisers assigned as escorts,” ordered Dylan. “That will give us quite a bit of firepower and won’t weaken our position here too much.”

“It will also make the governors of the worlds of Vidon Seven and Helgoth feel much better, seeing an actual fleet of powerful Imperial warships.”

-

The minutes passed quickly by as the ships assigned to accompany the Themis rapidly formed up.

On the main viewscreen, Dylan saw the Trinity, one of the dreadnoughts accompanying them. It looked very impressive and dangerous. “Take us out,” ordered Dylan. The small fleet would move away from Jalot Four before entering hyperspace.

On the tactical display, the green icons moved alongside the Themis and shortly vanished as they entered hyperspace.

“Course set for Vidon Seven,” confirmed Lieutenant Marks. “Transit time is fourteen hours.”

Vidon Seven and Helgoth were only a few light-years apart, and Dylan planned on visiting both systems before continuing on to Golan Four.

-

Dylan was in the officers’ cafeteria, eating with Governor Lindsay Littrel and several of her staff members.

“The food is surprisingly good,” commented the governor, as she took another bite and smiled. “How is that? I always pictured food on a warship as bland and repetitive.”

“No, not quite,” replied Dylan. “We serve a main meal every six hours, due to the shifts we run on the ship. In between, crewmembers can have sandwiches or other snack foods. We try to make the food as tasteful as possible to help keep the morale high. The freezers are well stocked as well as the dry-food pantries. We can make and serve almost anything that a regular restaurant would serve.”

A look of seriousness crossed Lindsay’s face. “How long will your fleet stay at the Vortex Worlds? I heard a report today of some Confederation ships sighted close by.”

“As long as necessary,” promised Dylan. “We consider the Vortex Worlds essential to the war effort. My fleet will remain, until it is relieved by ships even now being built by the Empire and your own star systems.”

Lindsay smiled. “We’re not quite an Empire yet.”

“No, but someday we will be. We must start somewhere.”

“Do you know the High Princess?”

Dylan nodded. “Yes, I’ve met her a number of times. She’s quite intelligent and is intent on restoring the Empire.”

“As well as the Royal Line,” commented Lindsay. “What if we don’t want the Royal Line reestablished? Many of us have gotten used to ruling our own worlds. Some people have even forgotten there ever was an Empire.”

“That is your decision,” answered Dylan. “You do not have to rejoin the Empire if you don’t want to. I would be surprised if everyone did rejoin.”

“If we don’t, I suppose we’ll lose our protection.” Lindsay frowned as she thought about those ramifications.

“No, we won’t penalize you for that. As long as you agree to help in the war effort, your planets will continue to be defended.”

“I see,” replied Lindsay, as she continued to eat. “I will weigh the benefits of joining the Empire against those of remaining independent.”

“That is one of the reasons for this meeting of the House of Worlds,” answered Dylan. “Much needs to be discussed, and it’s an opportunity for other governors to come to know the two Princesses.”

Lindsay nodded. “I’m anxious to meet the High Princess. I hope she can find the time to speak with me.”

Dylan smiled. “I believe that can easily be arranged.”

One of the servers returned with a tray, holding several slices of red velvet cake and bowls of vanilla ice cream.

Lindsay laughed. “Now I’m really impressed.”

The server placed the desserts before everyone and then left.

“I’m willing to consider joining the Empire,” admitted Lindsay. “I just don’t want to be taxed to death or expected to provide more than my planet can afford.”

“That won’t happen,” promised Dylan, as he took a bite of his cake. “I believe you will find the High Princess very reasonable in what she will ask for.”

“I hope you’re right,” replied Lindsay, taking a bite of her cake, which brought a big smile to her face.

-

A number of hours later Dylan was in his quarters, filling out a report, when his comm buzzed. “This is Admiral Cleemorl.”

“Admiral, we’re picking up a distress call from Vidon Seven. They are under attack by the Confederation.”

Dylan stood. “How far out are we?”

“Forty minutes.”

“Take the fleet to Condition Two and prepare for combat. Are we in sensor range of the planet?”

“Not quite, in another few minutes we will be.”

“I’ll be in the Command Center shortly.”

As Dylan made his way toward the Command Center, he saw the flashing red lights in the corridor and heard Captain Fulmar’s voice ordering the setting of Condition Two.

Reaching the Command Center, Dylan quickly sat down and looked at his communications officer. “Lieutenant Newsome, send a hyperlight message to Captain Manson. I need five dreadnoughts and forty battlecruisers to come to Vidon Seven immediately. Inform him that a Confederation attack is currently underway. We must secure both Vidon Seven and Helgoth.”

“We have long-range sensor readings,” reported Lieutenant Casella. “Detecting thirty-two Zynth battlecruisers in the system. It appears the defensive grid around Vidon Seven is still active. Also a small fleet of resistance ships are mixed in with the grid.” After accessing the computers on several Druin ships they now knew how to recognize the warships of all seven of the Confederation races.

Dylan nodded. “Lieutenant Marks, drop us out of hyperspace directly behind the Zynth fleet. Captain Fulmar, as soon as we drop out, I want to hit the Zynth with a full barrage of missiles from all our ships. Maybe our sudden attack will force them to withdraw.”

“Admiral, the governor wants to know what’s going on,” reported Captain Fulmar.

“Have a Marine escort her to the Command Center. It might be good for her to see this.” Dylan just hoped he had the necessary forces to drive the Zynth from the system.

-

Governor Littrel came into the Command Center with a look of confusion on her face. “Admiral, what’s going on?”

“The Zynth are attacking Vidon Seven, and we’re going to their aid. We’ll be in combat shortly.”

“Can you drive them off?”

“We’ll find out. I’ve already called for reinforcements from First Fleet, but it will be fourteen or fifteen hours before they can get here.”

Lindsay looked at the tactical display and the red icons it revealed. They were obviously circling Vidon Seven and firing on the planet’s defenses. “May I remain in the Command Center and observe?”

“Yes, but, once combat starts, stay out of the way and be quiet. I don’t want any of the command crew distracted.”

“I understand,” replied Lindsay.

-

The first the Zynth knew of the incoming Imperial fleet was when its warships dropped from hyperspace directly behind their fleet. Almost instantly the Imperial warships launched missiles.

“Where did those ships come from!” demanded the Zynth commander.

“Unknown,” replied his second in command.

“The resistance in this system was supposed to be minimal, but instead we find a powerful defense grid and a small squadron of resistance ships.”

“It must be a Human patrol force for this region of their Empire.”

“They don’t have an Empire any longer!” said the commander harshly. “We must turn our fleet and engage them. They are the more dangerous threat.” Even as he spoke, the first Human missiles slammed into the energy shields of his small fleet. On the ship’s main viewscreen, he saw one of his battlecruiser’s shields flicker and then fail. Two antimatter missiles turned the powerful Zynth warship into glowing wreckage.

On the tactical display, the Human fleet formed into a double line formation and closed the distance between the two fleets.

“They intend to fight,” pointed out the ship’s second in command.

“Turn the fleet so we can bring more weapons to bear. We must destroy these Humans.” On the viewscreen, another Zynth battlecruiser blew apart. “Pull us away from the planetary defensive grid. We can’t risk receiving fire from two directions.”

The Zynth fleet rapidly turned 180 degrees and accelerated toward the inbound Imperial fleet.

From the planetary defense grid, three resistance battlecruisers and twelve support ships left the grid’s protection and fell into pursuit of the Zynth.

-

Dylan saw the Resistance Fleet. “Contact the commanding officer of that fleet and order him to stay at extreme range. If we lose this battle, he is to fall back to the defensive grid. Inform him that other Imperial warships are on the way.”

The Themis shook slightly, as several energy beams struck the defensive screen. The Themis, in turn, launched missiles, and now her powerful energy weapons were coming into play.

Dylan noted that Lindsay’s face was a little bit pale. No doubt this was her first time to be in combat on a warship.

-

Weapons fire between the two fleets became even more intense. Missiles exploded, lighting up space. Waves of deadly energy washed across the energy screens of ships in both fleets. Energy beams played over the screens, seeking a weakness and occasionally finding one. When that happened, the beam tore deep glowing gashes into the sides of the dueling warships.

An Imperial battlecruiser was under heavy weapons fire, and its shield began to waver. It started to fail in several areas, and an antimatter missile managed to slip through. The enemy missile blew the ship in two, and seconds later energy beam fire riddled the two segments, turning them into lifeless hulks.

Other Imperial ships were going down as the Zynth battlecruisers grew closer. The Zynth warships were twice the size of an Imperial battlecruiser and covered with weapons.

-

As the fourth Imperial battlecruiser exploded, sending debris across space, Captain Fulmar turned toward the admiral. “I don’t think we can take them. They have too big an advantage in firepower and size.”

Dylan felt a cold chill run down his back. He couldn’t allow the fledging Empire to lose a valuable world like Vidon Seven. “We’ll fight as long as possible. With a little luck the Resistance Fleet will hold off the Zynth until our reinforcements arrive.”

The Themis shook violently, knocking the governor off her feet. Captain Fulmar rushed to her side and helped her up. “Better hold on to something. This could get violent.”

“I’m fine,” she said. “You’re willing to die to keep this world safe?” Her gaze focused on the admiral.

Dylan nodded. “I’ll do whatever is best for the Empire.”

Suddenly more red threat icons appeared on the tactical display, and alarms sounded. Then the icons turned to a friendly green, as they were identified as friendly.

“Identify those ships,” ordered Dylan. No Imperial ships should have arrived this soon.

“Resistance ships from Helgoth,” replied Lieutenant Newsome.

“Picking up four battlecruisers and twenty support ships,” added Lieutenant Casella.

“Admiral, the Zynth are breaking off!” said Captain Fulmar, his eyes growing wide.

On the tactical display, the Zynth warships were entering hyperspace. “They know they can’t win now,” said Dylan, relaxing. “While they could possible destroy us and the new Resistance Fleet, it would not leave them enough vessels to capture Vidon Seven.”

“So they’re leaving,” said Lindsay, with relief on her face.

“Yes, they’re leaving. Lieutenant Marks, put us in orbit of Vidon Seven just outside the defense grid. We’ll stay here until our other ships arrive. We’ll divide them up equally to guard both Vidon Seven and Helgoth. Lieutenant Newsome, send a message to Fleet Admiral Marloo. We need some cargo ships loaded with defense grid elements sent to both Vidon Seven and Helgoth if we want to continue to hold those planets.”

Dylan wanted their defensive grids greatly strengthened. Since the Confederation had already attacked Vidon Seven, there was a good chance the Zynth would return with a larger fleet. Dylan wanted to make sure that next attack failed as well.

On the tactical display, the last Zynth warship vanished from the screen as it entered hyperspace.

Lindsay looked at the admiral. “I’ve made up my mind about rejoining the Empire. I’ll recommend that all the Vortex Worlds do so. If you’re an example of the military leaders the Empire has, then I want Jalot Four to become a part of that.”

“You won’t be disappointed,” promised Dylan. “The Empire has a lot to offer, and, as it grows, it will have even more.”

Dylan watched as Lindsay left the Command Center and headed to her quarters. He suspected she’d had all the excitement she could handle for one day. For that matter, so had Dylan. He was ready to see Cheryl and maybe to take a few days of R&R. The capital would be the ideal place for that. All he had to do now was wait for the relief fleet, and then he could leave and head for Golan Four.

Chapter Five

Cheryl was nervous. Dylan had arrived in orbit a short while back, and she was waiting for him at the main spaceport’s passenger reception lounge just outside the capital. For several days now she had thought hard about what she would say to him. Her foolishness had nearly gotten herself killed, and it had resulted in the death of several of her Marine guards. She had already decided to hire someone to take care of her businesses, so she would do very little traveling in the future. She had spoken briefly to Captain Bryan, and he had said he’d think about it, but she felt he would agree eventually.

Staring out the large window that overlooked the spaceport, Cheryl saw hundreds of shuttles and small spacecraft. Cargo lifters were taking cargo to and from some of the ships, while passengers boarded others to be taken into orbit.

She was still standing there, when she heard a familiar voice behind her.

“I believe you missed my landing.”

Cheryl turned and smiled. “Hello, Dylan. I’m so glad you’re here.”

Dylan took Cheryl in his arms and gave her a long and deep kiss. “I have the rest of the day off. Tomorrow I have some meetings and an appointment to see the High Princess.”

“Anything exciting happen on your way to Golan Four?”

Dylan shook his head. “No, everything was routine.” No point in telling her about the battle at Vidon Seven. He didn’t want to worry her any more than she already was.

“I have an aircar waiting, and we have a room at the Imperial Suites.”

“How did you swing that?” asked Dylan. It was the fanciest resort in the capital, and it normally took months to get a reservation.

Cheryl smiled. “Well, it seems some of my investments have paid off very well.”

Dylan was afraid to ask. Cheryl’s life in the past had been very dubious at best. “Let’s go. I could use some rest.”

Cheryl laughed. “Oh, you’ll get to rest all right, but not until I’m finished with you.”

-

The Great Council of the Confederation was meeting once more. In the past, meetings had been few and far between, but now, with the advent of the Earth Humans, meetings occurred nearly every day.

“This situation in the former Human Empire has stabilized,” reported Ardon Reull. “We are slowly retaking those worlds that rebelled. Our fleet admirals estimate, in another four months, they will have most of the Human worlds back under Confederation control.”

“What about their core worlds?” asked Klug.

“No, that will be a problem. At least two Earth fleets protect the Human core worlds, and all of them have been heavily fortified. Other star systems might prove a problem as well, due to the fortifications put around them. Also one Earth fleet is at the Vortex Worlds.”

“So, in four months’ time, how many worlds will the Humans still control?”

“Forty to sixty,” replied Reull, looking at Klug. Klug’s current shifting shape resembled that of an oblong blob.

“We cannot allow that, or this war could drag on for years,” said Cryler. “We must end this revolt as soon as possible.”

“In order to do that we must attack and destroy Earth,” stated Councilor Damora of the Morag. “We must gather our fleets into one strike force and attack immediately.”

Ardon Reull knew Damora stated the truth. He wondered if the other councilors really understood how much danger the Humans represented. In the past they had moved against the Human Empire, not because of their continued expansion but because of the future threat they would become to the Confederation. Long ago the caretakers of the archives on Bator Prime had forecast that, in time, the Human Empire would become as powerful as the Confederation and might challenge the seven races for control of the galaxy. That could not be allowed, so the Human Empire was attacked and occupied.

“We have already agreed to attack Earth,” said Reull. “We need time to gather our fleets and to prepare them. I propose they meet in the Bator Prime system in four weeks’ time. From there, the fleets will set out for Earth. Councilor Damora, have you chosen a Morag admiral to lead our fleets?”

“Yes,” replied Damora. “Fleet Admiral Horrabe will be in command. He is our best admiral and should have no trouble defeating the Humans of Earth. We have all committed to sending eight thousand warships to attack Earth. I would like to see that number increased as a precaution. We must not fail in this attack, or it could mean the end of the Confederation as we know it.”

This caused a stir among several council members.

“We control over sixty thousand inhabited worlds,” protested the Lamothian councilor. “Surely you overestimate the danger these Humans represent.”

“Do I?” replied Damora. “Already they have destroyed one of your worlds.”

“Even if we destroy Earth, the core worlds of the former Human Empire could represent an ever-growing threat,” said Ralor Conn of the Zynth.

“I recommend that all the seven races protect their most vital worlds with more fleet units,” said Ardon Reull. “We cannot allow all we have worked for over the last thirty thousand years to perish.”

“Then it is decided,” said Damora. “Fleet Admiral Horrabe will lead our combined fleet against the Earth star system. When he returns, we will retake those worlds the Humans consider vital to their war effort. In time, all that will remain will be their core worlds, and, when the time is right, even those will be dealt with.”

-

Dylan was in the suite that Cheryl had procured. They sat at a table covered in fine crystal dishes and fancy silverware. Candles lit the table and the food they ate. Much of it Dylan had no idea what it was. He ate a meat that tasted a lot like steak and another that tasted suspiciously like lobster.

Cheryl sat across from Dylan, dressed in a very low-cut gown with a huge smile on her face. “It’s been years since I could do this. Isn’t this wonderful?”

Dylan took a sip of the rich wine from his crystal goblet. “I admit that I could get used to this.” The suite was lavishly furnished with tapestries, and paintings hung from the walls. “Are we moving to the capital?”

Cheryl looked thoughtful. “I really like our house at Pallas, but we could build something here more to our liking.”

“Just how much money do you have?” This was something he had never asked. He knew a lot of it had come from illegal activities in the past that he wanted to know nothing about.

Cheryl grinned. “More than we will ever need. And don’t worry. I’ve sold or traded off all my questionable assets.” She paused and gazed at Dylan. “Where would you like to live?”

“The capital would be fine, as long as we get out in the suburbs somewhere. I want some space between us and our neighbors.”

“I’ll contact a real estate person tomorrow and see what they can find.”

“Just don’t go overboard.”

“Not just a little?” teased Cheryl, leaning forward and showing more cleavage.

Dylan laughed. “Well, maybe a little.”

“How long before you return to your fleet?”

Dylan leaned back and then replied. “Probably in a week or so. I have several meetings scheduled, as well as the meeting of the House of Worlds.”

Cheryl grinned. “I heard a rumor they’ll make you vice admiral of the fleet.”

“I’ve been talked to about it,” admitted Dylan. “That’s one of the meetings I have scheduled.”

“Vice admiral of the fleet,” said Cheryl. “That sounds impressive.”

“Well, the choices are rather limited. We only have so many admirals and only a few from the Empire.”

“Nevertheless it’s something you should be proud of.”

They finished eating, and Cheryl stood and blew out the candles. She came around the table and took Dylan’s hand. “Now it’s time for dessert.”

Dylan had to smile. It was very obvious what Cheryl wanted, and the truth of the matter was, so did he. Without another comment, he allowed Cheryl to lead him to the bedroom.

-

Lamothian Admiral Zahn’s fleet dropped out of hyperspace in the Leonora system. The system had fourteen planets, two in the liquid water zone. One of the water-zone planets was too large to support life and was on the very edge of the habitable zone. The other was in the center of the water zone and teemed with life, Human life. Around it orbited three small moons and a number of space stations and one small shipyard.

“No warships detected,” reported First Officer Vormalt.

“Are we allowed to take a few Humans for experiments?” asked Krek.

“We dare not,” replied Zahn, shifting his gaze to his science officer. “Not since the Humans destroyed Zaneth. We can’t afford to risk another of our worlds.” Zahn focused his attention on this world. “What does this world supply the Confederation?” If this Human world agreed to furnish their allotment, he would leave the space stations and the shipyard untouched. If they refused, he would destroy them and would leave a few warships in orbit, to ensure the planet stayed loyal to the Confederation.

“Grain,” replied Vormalt. “Their shipment is overdue.”

“Communications, contact the planet and see if their shipment of grain is ready.”

A few minutes passed, and the communications officer looked at the admiral. “There is no reply.”

“Admiral, it looks as if they’re evacuating the shipyard and the space stations,” reported the sensor officer. “A large number of shuttles are departing and heading toward the surface.”

“Close with those space stations and the shipyard immediately. If they continue to refuse to turn over their quota of grain, then they shall be punished.”

The communications officer sent another message, but this one too was ignored.

“ Destroy the shipyard and all but one of the space stations.”

“Yes, Admiral,” replied Vormalt.

The sixty ships of the Lamothian fleet quickly closed with their intended targets. Neither the shipyard nor the space stations were defended or had protective energy shields. Antimatter missiles left the Lamothian warships, and three massive fireballs erupted in space to quickly die down. When they were gone, nothing was left of the orbital structures, except tangled metal and glowing wreckage.

“Leave four battlecruisers here. Inform the planet we will return in thirty days for the required allotment of grain.”

Four battlecruisers detached from the fleet and went into high orbit above the planet. The rest of the Lamothian fleet entered hyperspace on their way to the next Human planet.

-

Dylan was at the Imperial Palace, standing in the garden area, admiring all the work that had been done. Flowers, plants, and shrubs from all across the Empire had been brought in to decorate the gardens. He had seen pictures and videos of the palace from the past, before the Empire fell, and, while not yet as magnificent as it had been in the past, it had made a lot of progress.

“Do you like the gardens?” asked High Princess Layla. She and Derrick stood nearby. “I’m thinking of getting some roses from Earth for the gardens. I think they would look beautiful in this setting.”

“Orchids,” said Krista, folding her arms across her chest. “I like Earth’s orchids.”

“We can get both,” said Layla, smiling.

An Imperial Guard suddenly hurried to Layla. “High Princess, a Visth cargo vessel has just arrived. They claim they have an important message to deliver.”

“The Visth?” said Layla, trying to remember who they were. Hundreds of alien races were under control of the Confederation but not all were in Confederation space.

“I took the liberty to check with the Imperial Library,” replied the guard. “The Visth control eleven star systems, and one of their worlds was recently bombed by the Druins for failure to deliver a rare radioactive isotope.”

Layla hated to hear of more atrocities. “Inform the commander of the ship we will meet with them. Bring them to the Royal Court for an audience.”

Layla then turned to Derrick and Admiral Cleemorl. “I’ll need both of you there, as well as Fleet Admiral Marloo. I am curious to see what the Visth have to say.” She recalled that her father used to meet with alien races in the Royal Court, so she would do the same.

-

Several hours later they were in the Royal Court, waiting on the Visth. Other members of the military were present, as well as several governors who were at the capital. A number of Imperial Guards remained to keep order.

The large doors to the Royal Court opened, and three Visth entered under escort of six Imperial Guards. The Visth were a humanoid species with a greenish tint to their skin and very large eyes. The hair on the top of their head was pure white and very thick.

The three Visth all stopped at the foot of the stairs and bowed deeply. “I am Garmen Altria,” spoke the one who appeared to be the leader. “I bring news of an impending Confederation attack. In recent days our trading ships have intercepted numerous hyperlight messages between various Confederation worlds. Many of their warships have been pulled back into the Confederation to their planet of Bator Prime. Our intelligence council only recently broke the code they use to communicate.”

“And what is their target?” asked Fleet Admiral Marloo.

“Earth. Their target is a planet called Earth.”

Princess Layla and the others exchanged glances. They could scarcely believe what they had just heard. “Are you certain?” asked Layla.

Garmen nodded. “Yes, this attack will be led by the Morag.”

“The Morag,” said Fleet Admiral Marloo. Of all the seven Confederation races, very little was known about the Morag.

“Do you know how many ships will be involved in this attack?” asked Derrick.

“Thousands,” replied Garmen. “They are pulling ships in from all across the Confederation, as well as from the star systems outside of the Confederation that they control.”

“We must warn Earth,” said Layla. “Do you know when this attack will occur?”

“The amassed fleet is scheduled to depart Bator Prime in three to four weeks.”

Layla let out a deep sigh. She shuddered to think what it would mean if Earth were to fall to the Confederation. “We thank you for this information. Is there anything we can do for you?”

Garmen seemed to hesitate. “We grow weary of being under control of the Confederation. When your Empire is powerful enough, we ask that you free our worlds. In return, we will join your war against the Confederation. Such evil as the Confederation represents must be brought to a stop.”

“We shall gladly consider your request,” replied Layla. “The more worlds that join in our war against the Confederation, the sooner its evil will be brought under control and destroyed.”

“Is there anything we can do for you while you’re here?” asked Fleet Admiral Marloo.

Garmen shook his head. “No, we should leave before the Confederation detects our ship. Just promise not to forget us. You offer our people hope, which has long been absent from our worlds.”

“We will not forget you,” promised Layla. “Someday your worlds will join ours in the war against the Confederation. Your people will be free once more when that day arrives.”

“Thank you, High Princess,” replied Garmen. He and the other two bowed and then, under escort of the Imperial Guards, left the Royal Court.

Layla looked at Derrick, Dylan, and Fleet Admiral Marloo. “What do we do?” They could not allow the attack on Earth to succeed.

“I recommend we send Rear Admiral Leeson and Second Fleet back to Earth immediately,” replied Dylan. “We should also send a warning message to Pallas as well.”

Fleet Admiral Marloo nodded in agreement. “Rear Admiral Barnes will be here with Third Fleet in another few days. I suggest that, once she has arrived at Golan Four, we send Second Fleet back to Earth at that time.”

“Any objections?” asked Layla, looking at the others.

“Sounds reasonable,” replied Dylan. “I wish we could send more, but it would endanger the worlds we have freed from the Empire. We have certain regions of the Empire we must hold, if we want to someday free the rest of our worlds.”

“All of the Solar System is heavily defended,” pointed out Derrick. “I don’t know if any enemy fleet, no matter how large, can actually conquer it. However, this attack, if it is as massive as the Visth indicate, could cause considerable damage.”

“We’ll send a hyperlight message today to both Earth and Pallas,” said Fleet Admiral Marloo. “That should give them six or seven weeks to prepare for the attack.”

“Do it,” said Layla. She was greatly concerned about what they had just heard. She doubted if the Empire could survive without Earth and its support. Right now only the Solar System was fully prepared for war. It would take months before the core systems were equally ready.

-

After the meeting with the Visth, Layla and Krista occupied themselves with readying the Royal Court for the first meeting of the House of Worlds. The two Princesses oversaw every little detail, wanting everything to be perfect.

“I want fresh flowers around the periphery of the Court,” instructed Layla to several of the people setting up everything.

“Just don’t block the statues, tapestries, or the paintings,” added Krista. “They are a part of our history, and we want the representatives in the House of Worlds to recognize that.”

Layla nodded in agreement.

“Where did Derrick go?” Krista asked.

“The admirals went to the underground Command Center to discuss what needs to be done about this attack on Earth. They’ll also send some hyperlight messages.”

“Do we say anything about this to the House of Worlds?”

Layla pursed her lips and then shook her head. “No, we don’t want the Confederation to get word that we know about the impending attack. We’ll brief the House of Worlds later, when we know more.”

“I hate keeping secrets from them,” said Krista. “It’s not a good way to begin our rule.”

Layla touched Krista’s arm. “It’s part of being a ruler. Sometimes secrets must be kept for the greater good. We will brief a few key governors.”

Krista drew in a deep breath. “What color flowers do you want to decorate with?”

“Purple, of course, and a mixture of others. But purple needs to be the dominant color.” Layla tried to concentrate on getting ready for the first meeting of the House of Worlds, but she was greatly worried about the attack on Earth. She hoped Earth would be ready for it.

Chapter Six

Admiral Reynolds had been called to the Pallas Command Center in response to a message received from newly promoted Resistance Fleet Admiral Marloo of the fledging Human Empire. Colonel Bryson had said it was important and asked Reynolds to come to the Command Center immediately.

It took Reynolds nearly ten minutes to reach the Command Center from his quarters. Inside was a beehive of activity as, from here, the entire defense of the Solar System was being coordinated. Hundreds of viewscreens showed scenes from various worlds, moons, asteroids, and satellites. Also tactical displays focused on the defenses of the entire system and the individual worlds.

Reaching his command chair, Reynolds sat down and looked expectantly at Colonel Evelyn Bryson, who was waiting for him. “What is it, Colonel?”

Evelyn handed him a message and stepped back so he could read it. “It does not sound good.”

Admiral Reynolds read the message and, as he did so, felt his heart start beating faster. “Are we sure about this? This isn’t somebody’s idea of a joke, is it?”

“It’s been confirmed,” replied Evelyn. “They estimate we’re six to eight weeks away from the planned attack.”

“Damn!” uttered Reynolds. “According to Fleet Admiral Marloo, we’re looking at a massive attack. Far larger than anything we’ve encountered before.” This was not what they needed with so many of the Solar System’s fleets away in the Human Empire.

“At least Rear Admiral Leeson is returning with Second Fleet.”

Reynolds nodded. “There is that. Someone in the Empire is using their head.” Looking up at the largest tactical display, which showed the entire system, Reynolds made some quick decisions. “I want Rear Admiral Collison, General Stern, Colonel Mills, Colonel Henderson, General Weston, and Colonel Green here as soon as possible. Have I covered the most important sectors?”

Evelyn frowned, ticking off a finger with each mention. “Fourth Fleet to reinforce Earth’s defenses. Then those in charge of what will be the prime targets—the NAU military rep, Luna City’s tactical officer, the commander of Gateway One, the general in charge of Earth’s main shipyard, and Ganymede command, as an early-warning outpost. Sounds good.”

“Tell them this is of the highest priority. How soon before Rear Admiral Mendoza is back?”

“A couple weeks.”

Reynolds nodded. “We must assemble a bona fide fleet for him to command, a true Sixth Fleet. He’ll probably get stuck defending Mars.”

Reynolds leaned back in his command chair. He had six weeks at most to decide how to defend the Solar System from its largest attack so far. “Get me whatever information we have on the Morag. I want to see if I can figure out what we’ll be up against.” He wished he knew more about the size of the incoming fleet and how many of the seven races were involved.

-

Over the next hour messages went out from Pallas to almost all the military commands in the system. Status of ships, interceptors, defenses, and bases were demanded in minute detail. Major Phillip Wainwright was in charge of tactical at Pallas, so a lot would be required of him in a short time.

“Major Wainwright, I want a complete list of all the warships in the system and where they’re currently assigned. We’ll be making a number of changes. Also contact Colonel Janice Fillmore. I want her here as soon as possible.” Janice was responsible for ship production at the shipyards inside Pallas and for routine ship maintenance.

Admiral Reynolds knew he would be very busy over the next few days. He needed to contact every colony and base in the system and see how prepared they were for the coming attack. A few would need to be evacuated.

-

The following day everyone requested attended Reynolds’s meeting, as well as all the members of the Pallas Imperial Council and Brett Newcomb of the Earth Imperial Council. Admiral Reynolds had just informed them of the message they had received from Fleet Admiral Marloo.

“And this has been confirmed?” asked Brett Newcomb. He could already imagine the panic this would cause on Earth and Mars.

Reynolds nodded. “Yes, Fleet Admiral Marloo has sent a few resistance support ships out to several nearby alien civilizations that the Confederation controls to confirm that warships have been recalled. He should know something definitive within the week.”

“How many warships could we be facing?” asked Rear Admiral Collison.

Reynolds hesitated briefly and then responded. “I’m told by the experts it could be anywhere from five to ten thousand.”

“How many of the seven races are involved in this fleet?” asked Colonel Henderson.

“We received a report this morning indicating that all seven races are committing ships.”

There was silence around the conference table, as everyone took in these numbers and what it might mean.

“What will we do?” asked General Stern.

“Fight,” replied Reynolds. “We’ll form a new fleet around Rear Admiral Mendoza, as soon as he returns. I spoke to Colonel Fillmore, and we still have 212 warships in stasis. All those are currently being activated. I’ve already sent a request to the Fleet Academy on the Moon for additional crews. However, to get the necessary trained people we need on those warships, it’ll be necessary to move some of our people around.”

“Even forming a sixth fleet, we’ll be tremendously outnumbered,” said General Weston.

“We have six weeks to put the most powerful defenses we can around the Earth, the Moon, Mars, Ganymede, and Titan.”

“What about the other moons and asteroid mining bases?” asked General Weston, looking worried. “A lot of money went into establishing some of those.”

Admiral Reynolds shook his head. “If we have anything extra, we’ll send it to them. However, I suggest we evacuate as many people off those moons and mining colonies as we can. We don’t have the resources to defend everyone from an attack of this size.”

“How soon before Rear Admiral Leeson returns?” asked Pallas Head Councilor Drew Tristan.

“Four weeks,” replied Reynolds. “He will be back way before any attack against us can be launched.”

-

The meeting lasted nearly all afternoon, as plans were made and then discarded. Finally they reached a point where everyone was in agreement, though still some problems remained to be worked out.

“If we’re all in agreement, then we will adjourn,” announced Reynolds. “We have a lot of work ahead of us. We’ll meet again in two weeks and go over everything again. I suspect, by then, some changes will be necessary.”

As everyone stood, Admiral Reynolds looked at Rear Admiral Collison and asked him to remain.

Once everyone had filed out of the room, Reynolds faced Collison. “Your fleet will still be responsible for protecting Earth. I’m assigning Rear Admiral Mendoza and Sixth Fleet to defend Mars.”

“What about Rear Admiral Leeson?”

“He will remain mobile. We’ll send him wherever he’s needed. We’ll pull in all the patrol vessels to add to Sixth Fleet. Their patrol routes will be taken over by our attack interceptors.”

“Those will be some long patrols for the interceptors.”

Reynolds nodded his agreement. “We’ll try to hold them to twenty-four hours at the maximum, twelve hours out and twelve hours back.”

“The Confederation could hit us from any direction,” said Collison. “How do we defend against that?”

Admiral Reynolds folded his arms over his chest. “If I were them, I would hit us from multiple directions, if they have enough ships. That’s one reason I want to keep Rear Admiral Leeson free, so he can respond to wherever we’re under the most pressure.”

Collison frowned. “We’ll take some major losses if they hit us with a really large fleet.”

“Yes, but, if we can make them pay a severe price for the damage they do, we can seriously hamper their future war efforts, at least in the short term. We’ll do everything we can to defend Earth, the Moon, Mars, Ganymede, Titan—and, of course, Pallas. If we can come through this with all six of them relatively intact, I’ll consider that a victory. Our primary goal must be to protect our industrial base, so we can rebuild.”

“We may not have much of a fleet left when this is over.”

Admiral Reynolds knew Collison was right. This would be a battle where the fleets might not be able to retreat. In some cases, they may have to stand their ground and slug it out with the Confederation forces. “We’ll strengthen our defensive grids as much as possible over the next few weeks, particularly around the colonies we can’t afford to risk ships to defend.”

“Some of those colonies won’t like that.”

“I know,” replied Reynolds, frowning. “But there’s nothing else we can do. We’ll evacuate everyone we can.”

“Some of those colonists and miners will be stubborn. They may not be willing to leave. Many of them have put everything they have into those operations.”

“We’ll do the best we can. The rest is up to them. I can’t promise anything more.”

Collison took a deep breath. “What about our shipyards and space stations? Those are bound to be primary targets.”

“We’ll add more defenses to them. We can’t afford to lose any of our primary shipyards, even though the ones here on Pallas are pretty well secure. The Confederation would have to destroy the asteroid to get to them.”

Collison nodded. “Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that.”

Admiral Reynolds agreed. If it did, that most likely meant they had lost the battle, and the Solar System would be in ruins.

-

It was time for the first meeting of the House of Worlds. High Princess Layla and Princess Krista were escorted into the Royal Court by Rear Admiral Masters and Fleet Admiral Marloo. As soon as they entered, the Royal March of the Human Empire began. Everyone stood and watched the procession, many with curious looks upon their faces. Twelve Imperial Guards formed an honor detail, escorting the Royal Princesses to the front of the Royal Court and up the stairs.

Layla and Krista both wore full-length gowns appropriate for the occasion. Once again Emira had been highly attentive in picking out the appropriate clothes for the two Princesses.

Captain Emerson turned and faced the House of Worlds. “Her Majesty, the High Princess Layla Starguard, and Princess Krista Starguard.”

Everyone bowed slightly, at which time Layla and Krista took their seats, allowing everyone else to sit.

“I call to order the initial meeting of the Human Empire’s House of Worlds,” said Layla in a clear and steady voice. “For the first time in over one thousand long years, the House of Worlds is now in session.” Looking out over the Royal Court, she noted representatives from over seventy Human worlds. Layla wished there were more, but, for now, this would do. At least it was a beginning.

Governor Stein stood and asked to be recognized, which Layla did. Part of this had already been carefully rehearsed.

“I have been asked to help coordinate this inaugural meeting of the House of Worlds. I am Governor Darl Stein of Golan Four. In the past an elected Imperial Council member was responsible for these meetings. Unfortunately we do not currently have one. I think the first order of business is to elect eight members from eight different worlds to become our first Imperial Council in over one thousand years.

“The council will be responsible for advising the High Princess, as well as carrying out her requests. I believe everyone here understands how a Constitutional Monarchy works. In front of each of you is a detailed description of how it worked in the original Human Empire, if you need a quick recap. We have made a few slight changes, due to our current situation.”

“What if we don’t want to become a member of the Empire?” asked one of the governors from an outer world.

“You don’t have to join,” replied Layla. “However, there are many benefits to joining, as you will be part of something much bigger than just one world. In time we hope to have the resources of all one thousand Human worlds joined together, working for the common good.”

Layla paused. “In front of you is a ballot listing all the governors here today. I have spoken briefly with everyone on the ballot, all forty-seven named thereon. What I would like to do is have each governor stand and give a brief report on their world. If you would like to be considered for the council, please say so and the reasons why.”

“Once everyone has spoken, we will provide a new list of names to consider of those who have shown an interest in being on the council,” added Governor Stein. “This will be for a two-year term, as we expect to add many more worlds to the House of Worlds over the coming years. Eventually the terms will be extended to four years. There is a term limit of three consecutive terms for any member of the Imperial Council. I will begin by talking about my world and why I would like to serve on the Council.”

-

For the next three hours the governors spoke, as well as the representatives from worlds whose governors could not attend. Every so often Layla would interrupt to ask a question. At the end of the three hours Layla called a one-hour recess for everyone to take a break and to think about what they had just heard. They were encouraged to talk among themselves about the various candidates.

-

Layla, Krista, and some of the others went to the large conference room to discuss what had happened so far. Refreshments and snacks were provided for them here as well.

“Well, everything seems to be going smoothly,” said Layla, as she sat down.

“So far,” replied Governor Stein. “I do believe some of the outer governors will combine to ensure they get at least one representative on the council.”

“No harm in that,” replied Layla. “We’ve learned a lot this morning, just from what the governors and their representatives told us.”

“What about the people who we want?” asked Fleet Admiral Marloo.

Governor Stein smiled. “They’ll get elected. I’ve seen to that. Two seats will remain open on the council for others to be added. This time in the Empire is too important to risk electing any governors who might cause more problems than solutions. As we bring more worlds into the Empire, we’ll loosen our hold on the council. We may, in time, set up certain rules for those who want to serve. That we can decide on at a later date.”

Layla looked around the table and then spoke. “Admiral Marloo, is the flyover ready?” They had arranged for seven hundred attack interceptors to fly over the Imperial Palace later in the day. It was designed to help the governors and the representatives see the power the Empire was already building and how these governors could benefit from joining.

“Yes, the interceptors are ready. We just need to let the base commander know the time.”

“We’ll finish electing the Imperial Council and then make a few more announcements. After that we’ll adjourn for an hour to allow everyone to view the flyover. Once that’s finished, we’ll return to the Royal Court, and I’ll make the announcement of my engagement to Derrick.”

“Afterward we’ll discuss some of the committees we need to set up and how they will function,” added Governor Stein. “Tomorrow will be a full day of meetings, as the various committees are organized. On day three the committees will meet and will make any needed recommendations to the Imperial Council.

“On day four, we’ll have a brief meeting, informing the governors and the representatives of some of our future plans, at which point we’ll call for an adjournment of the House of Worlds, until the next scheduled meeting.”

“This will be much different than in the past,” said Layla. “In my father’s time, government officials always worked at the House of Worlds, but we’re probably a year away from that point. For now the governors will work at home and will use hyperlight communications to contact each other.”

“One small step at a time,” said Derrick. “We don’t need to rush things. Let’s take our time, and get it right.”

Layla nodded. Derrick had no idea how much confidence he gave her just with his presence.

-

Returning to the Royal Court, everyone took their places. Layla was very pleased with the way the Court was decorated. Flower arrangements were strategically placed around the periphery, highlighting the statues, paintings, and tapestries. Layla noticed on their return that a number of the governors and representatives were examining the art displayed on the walls.

“The first meeting of the House of Worlds is now called back into session,” announced Governor Stein. “Will everyone please take their seats.”

Stein waited as everyone made their way to their tables and chairs and sat down. “During our recess we printed out ballots of those who have asked to be considered for the Imperial Council. This will be for a term of two years.” Thirty-two names were on the ballot.

-

For the next hour the governors and representatives voted. Several times some heated arguments broke out, but Governor Stein quickly brought everything back under control. Each world was allowed to vote for eight governors to be on the council. Finally the ballots were collected, and the votes were quickly tabulated.

Princess Layla stood to announce the results. “Before I announce the members of the Imperial Council, keep in mind that we are in a time of war, and much work needs to be done. We still have hundreds of Human worlds, which must be freed from the Confederation. In addition we have four worlds that have decided not to join the Empire at this time. As a result none of their votes will count.

“The following governors have been chosen to serve on the Imperial Council. Governor Lindsay Littrel of Jalot Four, Governor Able Marsk of Lamora Seven, Governor Julian Bemire of Ambary Two, Governor Elaina Dreel of Glimmerr, Governor Alex Therron of Bratol Three, Governor Dru Clarro of Vidon Seven, Governor Gregory Staley of Aquilla Three, and Governor Darl Stein of Golan Four.”

Princess Layla looked over the assembled members of the House of Worlds. “I want to thank everyone for their attendance and for your help in forming the first Imperial Council in over one thousand years. I have a few other announcements to make, and then we’ll gather on the Imperial Guards’ parade grounds, where we have arranged for a special flyover of some of our new attack interceptors.”

Layla took a deep breath. “The first announcement is to formalize the promotion of Admiral Marloo to Fleet Admiral. He will be responsible for all the Empire’s warships and fleet dispositions. He will also hold the position as the ninth councilor on the Imperial Council.” A ninth councilor was necessary to avoid too many tie votes.

“The second announcement is the promotion of Admiral Dylan Cleemorl to Vice Admiral of the Fleet. The third announcement is the promotion of General Lyra Gantts to commander of all military forces, including Marines and regular ground forces. The fourth announcement is the promotion of Captain Emerson to colonel, and he will continue to be responsible for the training and recruitment of the Imperial Guards. There will be other announcements at a later date upon completion of repairing the Imperial Palace and the rebuilding of the House of Worlds.”

Layla paused again, looking over the governors and the representatives. “Now, if everyone will make your way to the Imperial Guard parade grounds, we will arrange for you to view a flyover of our new attack interceptors.”

-

It took nearly thirty minutes to get everyone outside and to the parade grounds. Fleet Admiral Marloo spoke as soon as everyone was seated. “The military of Earth has provided us with the blueprints for the attack interceptors you are about to see. They are designed for close-in defense and offense. They can protect your planets from missile attacks and carry out mass attacks against Confederation warships. Each interceptor is equipped with a forward-facing energy shield and can carry four small fusion-tipped missiles. Now if everyone will look to the right side of the Palace.”

In the distance, numerous small specks could be seen. The small specks rapidly increased in size until thirty-five squadrons of attack interceptors appeared, all flying in formation. A roar in the air gradually increased as the interceptors drew nearer. They flew in low over the parade grounds and then darted high up into the air to vanish from sight.

“Each interceptor can stay in space for up to three days for routine patrols,” announced Fleet Admiral Marloo. “They can easily be mass produced, and we are willing to share their designs and their manufacturing processes.”

A number of the governors and representatives were now talking among themselves. It was evident they had been impressed by the flyover. Marloo allowed them to talk for several minutes before informing them it was time to return to the Palace.

Once back inside, a few other pieces of business were taken care of, such as scheduling the next meeting of the House of Worlds.

“In three months we will meet once more,” Layla informed the representatives. “By that time, the House of Worlds will be complete, and various staffs can begin moving into their government offices.”

Layla looked out over the assembled representatives and smiled. “I do have one special announcement to make.” Layla gestured for Derrick to come stand next to her. “I am pleased to announce my engagement to Rear Admiral Derrick Masters. Derrick is an Imperial who went into cryo sleep in the Earth star system over one thousand years ago. He knew my brother and other members of the Royal Family at the time of the fall.”

“He was brought out of cryo sleep to help in the war against the Confederation. Most of you are familiar with some of his exploits. I know my father, mother, and brother would be pleased with my decision to wed Derrick in the near future.” Layla paused, taking Derrick’s hand.

The Royal Court erupted in cheers and applause. The video cameras broadcasting the proceedings across the Empire zoomed in for close-ups of the Royal Couple.

Layla smiled and raised her hand to silence the cheering and clapping. “With that, I now close today’s meeting of the House of Worlds. You are free to remain in the Royal Court and to discuss any issues you feel need to be addressed. Fleet Admiral Marloo, Vice Admiral Cleemorl, and General Gantts will be available for your questions. I want to thank all of you for coming. As of today, we can truly say the Empire has been reborn, and, with every passing day, we will only grow stronger. We have other discussions to be had and other committees to set up over the next three days. Governor Stein will help in organizing all of that.”

Layla and Krista descended the steps and were escorted out by the Imperial Guards, as the Royal March was played one more time.

-

In only a short matter of minutes they were back on the Starburst.

“Finally I can get out of this gown,” said Krista, as she headed toward her quarters.

Layla noted Emira standing close by. “Would you check on Princess Krista to make sure she changes into something appropriate to receive visitors. I believe we will have a number of governors coming by later.”

Emira smiled and nodded. “I will take care of it. The young Princess does have a habit of wearing inappropriate attire at times.”

“The main conference room has been prepared for visitors,” said Captain Darlu. “Refreshments and food have been set out for those who desire any. Several Royal Attendants are standing by to serve, if needed.”

“Thank you,” replied Layla. “Now I believe I’ll go freshen up and prepare to receive our visitors.” Layla knew of a number of governors who planned on coming by, all those selected to the Imperial Council, as well as a few others who had some questions they would like answered.

Derrick walked Layla to her quarters. “Well, I think everything went smoothly today.”

Layla nodded. “Better than I expected. I finally feel as if the Empire is back.” A more serious look crossed Layla’s face. “I just hope Earth succeeds in fighting off the Confederation’s attack fleet. If we lose Earth, I’m afraid all this will have been for nothing.”

Derrick understood Layla’s fears. He had the same ones. They just had to trust that Admiral Reynolds, as the Solar System’s fleet admiral, would save the Solar System from the Confederation.

Chapter Seven

During the next several days, Layla and Krista had meetings with many of the governors and their representatives. Some meetings were held on the Starburst over an evening meal, and others were held in the large conference room at the Palace. In most of those meetings either Derrick or Fleet Admiral Marloo were present. Layla was careful to leave military matters up to the admirals, as they were more familiar with the capabilities of their fleets than Layla or Krista were.

Governor Darl Stein now fulfilled the role as the Royal Chancellor, with the approval of the Imperial Council. It also helped Layla immensely as Darl knew most of the other governors and their strengths and weaknesses. Normally before a meeting, he would brief her on what he knew about a particular governor or representative.

Finally all the meetings were over, and they were once more in the large conference room on the Starburst. It had been an exhausting four days, and Layla was glad it was finally over.

“We have sixty-six worlds that have formally signed the charter to create a new Human Empire,” reported Chancellor Stein. “Forty-two other worlds are still free and have powerful defense grids around them but could not attend. There are others with weaker defenses. I suggest we send envoys to speak to those worlds. I fear the rest of the worlds will fall victim to the Confederation fleets, now in the Empire bringing many of the Human worlds back under their control.”

Layla nodded. “If we can just hold on to the worlds that signed the charter, I’ll be happy. We must do everything we can to fortify those worlds so we can hold them.”

Admiral Marloo nodded in agreement. “I think the attack interceptors are the key. We don’t have the time to build a sufficient number of battlecruisers and dreadnoughts to allow us to hold all those worlds. However, I have spoken to the governors of the other core worlds, and all are willing to put in the production lines for the interceptors. In just a few weeks we can build hundreds of them every day.”

“What about pilots?” asked Krista. “I’ve spoken to Captain Barkley of the Orion. He’s a squadron commander. It takes three talented people to fly, navigate, and use an interceptor’s weapons. How will we train thousands of people to operate these interceptors?” Krista didn’t mention she had a growing crush on the dashing young pilot.

“It’ll be a challenge,” admitted Fleet Admiral Marloo. “We’re already building training simulators that will be very realistic. They’ll be used on all the core worlds. We’ll also make them available to any Human world that wants to train crews.”

“I would suggest we start recruiting immediately,” said Layla. “Why don’t we have Captain Barkley come to Golan Four and put him in charge of the training? I believe his crew is one of the most talented we have in the fleet.”

“It is,” said Derrick. “I can’t think of a better crew to train our pilots. I’m sure Captain Barkley will have suggestions for others who we can recruit to help in the training.”

“We’ll set up a training facility,” added Fleet Admiral Marloo. “Probably somewhere close to the capital.”

“There are some government lands about twenty kilometers south of the capital that might be ideal,” said Chancellor Stein. “An old military base used to be there in the old days. I’ll order the clearing of any remaining structures and sign a proclamation returning the land to the military.”

Layla looked at Fleet Admiral Marloo. “Is there any chance of a major Confederation attack on our worlds anytime soon?” Layla hoped they had time to set up more defenses and to bring even more worlds into the new Empire.

Marloo shook his head. “No way to know for sure. However, we do know of the impending attack against Earth. I can’t see the Confederation making a major move against us until that’s over. I would estimate we have six to ten weeks before we see any major move against our main planets.”

“Then let’s take advantage of that time. I want as many interceptors as possible built and all the defenses around our primary worlds intensified. Also we should look at some of those worlds with weaker defensive grids. If they can potentially add to the war effort, we should offer to strengthen their defensive grids and to furnish interceptors—if they will agree to join the Empire.”

“Bribery,” said Krista disapprovingly. “Are you sure you want to do that?”

“We’re in a time of war,” replied Layla defensively. “We must do what’s necessary to protect and to grow the Empire.”

“I agree,” said Derrick. “We need the Empire as strong as possible before the Confederation turns all of their resources against us. We still don’t know or don’t understand a lot about the Confederation.”

“I suggest we send out some government envoys immediately to those worlds that could not attend the meeting of the House of Worlds,” said Chancellor Stein. “We should send one of the battlecarriers, so the governments of those worlds can see the effectiveness of the interceptors.”

“Let us make arrangements immediately,” said Layla approvingly. “I would also suggest we send some cargo ships along with additional elements for defensive grids. They would make a good bargaining chip.”

Admiral Marloo nodded. “I’ll get a small fleet set up to make a tour of the Human worlds we should visit.”

“I’ll see about assigning an envoy,” added Chancellor Stein.

Layla looked thoughtful. “What do we know about the Morag? There is very little about them even in the Imperial Library. I had some people check. They found a lot of vague references, but that’s about it.”

Fleet Admiral Marloo took a deep breath. “The Morag are a very secretive race. They’re a simian species and very large. They stand ten feet tall and supposedly have a very large warfleet. They inhabit at least 112 planets in ninety-two different star systems. From what we’ve been able to learn, they don’t allow any other species to enter any of their systems or the territory they control.”

Layla’s expression showed some concern. “I think we should form some type of intelligence service to gather information on the Confederation. Even if we must send stealthed ships into their space.”

Derrick looked surprised at the suggestion, particularly with it coming from Layla. “I agree. We must know more about the Confederation, especially the location of all their core worlds. For thousands of years they have kept much of this information secret.”

“Are any Humans still in the Confederation?” asked Krista.

“That’s something an intelligence service could find out,” said Derrick.

Layla looked at Derrick. “Can you take care of setting this up?”

Derrick nodded. “I would suggest we bring in some specialists from Earth. They are very good at this kind of stuff.”

Layla took a deep breath and then asked Derrick a question that had been haunting her. “Have you asked Andrew about the other matter?”

Derrick looked surprised and then shook his head. “With all that’s been going on, I haven’t had the time. Since the Destiny was destroyed, I’ve had the surviving crew helping with changing the shipyards over to construct warships. I believe Andrew’s onboard one of them.”

“I’m curious as to what he finds. It would be nice to learn a few Royals are living on Earth.”

-

In the suburbs of the city, Cheryl and Dylan were looking at houses. Currently they had found a two-story home in a quiet neighborhood. It was close enough to the Imperial Palace to make the trip reasonable and still far enough out to avoid the hustle and bustle of the capital.

Dylan studied the large house. “Can we afford this?”

Cheryl laughed. “No problem. My businesses have paid very well over the years. Money is one thing we’ll never have to worry about.”

“Speaking of your businesses, who do you have managing them now?”

“I’ve spoken to Captain Bryan, and he’s more than willing to manage them. I’m also having a new ship constructed for his use. I’ve pulled some strings, and they’ll build him a medium-size cruiser to travel around in. It will have several very nice staterooms, in case we want to go with him at times. He’ll also have four smaller escorts to ensure his cruiser stays safe.”

Dylan looked stunned. “And you’ve already paid for all that?” He had no idea Cheryl’s assets were that large.

Cheryl smiled. “I have some mining assets that have paid very well and should continue to pay well for years to come. Of course I have quite a few entertainment bars and clubs as well. I have assets spread out over fourteen star systems. I did get rid of everything that might be a little questionable.”

Dylan nodded. “Just promise me one thing. You will never go off world again without talking to me first.”

Cheryl lowered her head and nodded. “I won’t. I’ve learned my lesson. Now let’s go look at this house. It’s only been on the market for a few days, and, if we like it, I want to put in an offer. It’s in the perfect location.”

Dylan stood, looking around. This would be a good neighborhood to raise kids. A nice park was nearby. Children were something he and Cheryl had yet to discuss. Perhaps now would be a good time. At least that would help to keep her home, and Dylan had always liked kids.

“How long before you return to your fleet?”

“A week or so,” replied Dylan. “I still have a few more meetings to attend to with the Princesses and Fleet Admiral Marloo. Eventually my fleet will be pulled back to help defend the core worlds.”

This pleased Cheryl. At least Dylan would be closer to home.

-

The meetings for the day were over, and Derrick and Layla were in the ship’s cafeteria, sitting at a private table, enjoying a meal together. Krista had announced earlier that she would talk to Emira about going shopping the next day and picking out some furniture for her rooms in the Palace.

“Krista loves to shop,” said Layla, as she took a bite of her salad. “I think she would shop day in and day out, if I would let her.”

Derrick smiled. He was enjoying his bowl of potato soup. “You better warn Emira, so she’ll know what she might be in for.”

Layla grinned. “I already did. Emira had some decorators in the Palace earlier, measuring the rooms and making some recommendations on the furniture that would fit in with Krista’s style. Emira already has a list of stores they’ll be visiting. She also has two clothing stores where they’ll pick out a better wardrobe for Krista. We’re still wearing the same clothes we put into stasis over one thousand years ago.”

Derrick winced. He could just imagine what shopping for clothes for either of the two Princesses would be like. “How soon before the two of you move back into the Palace?” Derrick knew that both women were anxious to do so.

“As soon as we can,” replied Layla. “It won’t just be us. Quarters for the Imperial Guards, Emira, and the other attendants, as well as the staff, will be necessary to run and to operate the Palace. We must hire a kitchen staff and maintenance people. It’s actually quite complicated.”

Derrick smiled. “And you’ll enjoy every minute of it.”

Layla smiled. “Do you blame me? This was my brother’s dream and what my parents hoped would come to pass. Now we must completely rebuild the Empire and kick the Confederation across the universe.”

Their main course arrived, and both were quiet for a few minutes as they enjoyed their food. Other members of the ship’s crew were in the cafeteria, but they didn’t bother Derrick or Layla. It was as if the two were in a world of their own.

“I bet Krista is happy with Captain Barkley being reassigned to training interceptor pilots.”

Layla nodded. “Yes, that’s all she can talk about. I’m sure that’ll greatly influence some of the clothes she’ll be getting. I’m just glad Emira will be with her to veto anything that’s too inappropriate.”

Derrick laid down his fork and looked across the table. He couldn’t get over how beautiful Layla was with her light-blue eyes and shoulder-length blond hair. Tonight she wore a dress that was bare at the shoulders. Emira had allowed Layla to choose her own clothes for dates with Derrick, as long as they remained on the ship. Emira was very strict, demanding that Layla look like a Royal Princess anytime she stepped off the Starburst.

Layla laughed. “Sometimes, when you look at me like that, I feel like I’m sitting here with no clothes on.”

Derrick smiled and reached across the table, taking her hand. “You’re so beautiful that I can’t take my eyes off you.”

Layla giggled. “That will get you a very good kiss later.”

“What’s on our schedule for tomorrow?” Since they were now officially engaged, Derrick was expected to accompany Layla on many of her official visits, so he could become familiar with his duty as the Prince Consort.

“The Imperial Library,” replied Layla. “I’ve been looking forward to going there. Chancellor Stein has told me that many of the art pieces from my father’s time are stored there.”

Derrick nodded. “It’s amazing what all they managed to save during that time. I know Druin soldiers were everywhere, rounding up anyone who might have been associated with the Royal Family.”

“A very sad and distressing time in our history,” said Layla with sadness in her eyes. “It’s a time I’ll never forget.”

“None of us will,” answered Derrick. “Will Krista go with us, or will she be shopping?”

“She’ll be shopping. That’s all she can talk about, it seems.”

Derrick knew Layla now had a lot of responsibility on her shoulders. So far she seemed to be handling it well.

“I spoke to Chancellor Stein earlier,” Layla said. “He thinks we should go on a tour of all the core worlds. He feels it will help the morale of the people to see Krista and I come to their worlds.”

“I agree.”

A thoughtful looked passed over Layla’s face. “I was thinking about scheduling the tour to start next week. I would like to spend a full day on each planet.”

“If you wish, I’ll make the necessary arrangements. I’ll have some of the surviving ships from Fifth Fleet assigned as escorts.”

“After all the sacrifices Fifth Fleet made in defending Golan Four, I would like to officially assign them the task of defending the planet, until such a time as sufficient Imperial fleet units are available.”

“I agree with that too.” He had checked yesterday, and many of the ships in Fifth Fleet were still under repair. The fleet wasn’t going anywhere anytime soon. It would be a while before Fifth Fleet was back up to strength.

The two finished eating their meal and then sat talking for well over an hour. As the crew came in for their evening meal, most just smiled at the couple and went on about their business.

-

Druin Admiral Kreen gazed at the ship’s main viewscreen, which was focused on the Human world his fleet orbited. This was the fourth world he had brought back under Confederation control. All it had taken was an appearance by his fleet and the threat to destroy all their orbiting satellites and their large space station. The planet had quickly capitulated. The admiral was still galled that he could not destroy a few Human cities as a penalty for them rebelling against the Confederation.

“Where to next?” asked First Officer Falorr.

“We will leave a few warships here and continue to bring back into the Confederation the Human worlds not defended or weakly defended. Once the Morag have destroyed the Human star system of Earth, we might then move against the Human worlds that have stronger defenses around them.”

“I wish we were part of the fleet going to destroy Earth,” said Falorr.

“As do I,” replied Kreen. He had made a request to the Great Council to allow his fleet to take part in the attack, but his request had been turned down. “For now we do as the Council orders. Someday these Humans will suffer for their arrogance in defying the Confederation.” Kreen had to admit that he enjoyed watching Human cities burn.

-

The next day Derrick received a high priority message from Andrew, who was still onboard one of the large shipyards in orbit around Golan Four.

“Admiral, I’ve made an amazing discovery. I’ve been speaking to Brent Newcomb on Earth about tracing the children of Prince Aiden Starguard and Lieutenant Maya Breams. It seems there is a historical record of all the births from the members of the Royal Family who were banished to Earth. Considerable effort was made to keep track of all the offspring from Aiden and Maya through the centuries. Brent will send me a copy of the records, as they are kept in a secret Imperial vault on Earth.”

“That sounds great,” replied Derrick, surprised that such records might still exist. “I hope we find some long-lost relatives of the Royal Line. I know it would greatly excite Layla and Krista to know that they are not alone.”

“I should hear something in a few days,” replied Andrew. “I’m curious myself as to what we find out.”

“Keep me informed,” answered Derrick. With that, the conversation ended. Derrick decided not to say anything to Layla until he heard more from Derrick. He didn’t want to get her hopes up, only to let them down.

-

Later that afternoon Derrick and Layla went on a tour of the Imperial Library. The Imperial Guards stopped at the entrance, as the library had its own security force. Only Colonel Emerson came inside with them. The head curator, Devon Muroow, currently hosted them on a tour.

“As you know, the library covers almost a full kilometer and is twelve stories high. It holds nearly all the knowledge and the history of all the worlds that were once in the Empire. What isn’t widely known is that the library extends underground an additional four levels. That is where our most important artifacts are kept.”

They descended some steps and through several thick security doors. “This area is temperature and humidity-controlled,” added Devon. “We strictly limit the people who come down here to researchers and historians. Some of the artifacts are in airtight cases and kept in a vacuum. Since the fall of the Empire, these underground levels have been sealed, with only the library curators having access. We were afraid, if the Druins ever found out we were preserving so much of the Empire’s history, they would destroy it all.”

“A wise decision,” said Derrick. “That’s exactly what the Druins would have done.”

They passed through the final security door, and Layla shivered. “It’s cold down here.”

Devon nodded. “We keep the temperature at sixty-five degrees with a humidity of 30 percent. The jackets hanging up on the wall are there, if you feel you need one.”

Layla shook her head. “No, I’ll get used to it.”

Devon smiled. “If you will follow me, I’ll give you a quick tour of what’s down here, as well as the items removed from the Palace during the Fall. I’m sure many of them will soon be returning to the Palace. I would request that, when these items are put on display, you allow the Imperial Library to maintain them.”

“I think that can easily be arranged,” replied Layla.

As they made their way through the bottom four levels, they stopped occasionally to admire various pieces of art stored here that Layla never even knew existed. Finally they reached the bottom level that held a huge locked vault. Inside this massive vault were stored the art pieces from the Imperial Palace.

After unsealing the vault, they went inside and Layla stopped, amazed at what she saw. There were statues, paintings, tapestries, and other artwork that she recognized. She went down the aisles, slowly gazing at what was here and recalling the last time she had seen the pieces. It brought tears to her eyes knowing that her brother had still been alive the last time the people of the Empire had seen these masterpieces.

“As the Palace is rebuilt, we can return these pieces,” explained Devon.

Layla nodded. “Can you assign a curator to help decide where some of these pieces should go?”

“I would be delighted to,” replied Devon, smiling. “I’ll also make him or her responsible for maintaining them while they’re at the Palace.”

“I believe I’ve seen enough. The curators of the Imperial Library have done a tremendous service to the Empire in preserving so much of the Empire’s history.”

Devon looked extremely pleased. “Thank you, High Princess. We are glad we were able to serve.”

-

Later they returned to the Palace and noticed a number of large cargo vehicles parked in front of one of the unloading entrances on the side of the Palace.

“I think Krista is back from her shopping trip.”

“I hope all those vehicles aren’t full.”

Layla laughed. “I’m sure they are. Remember she was purchasing furniture for her suite of rooms as well as clothing. Plus you must understand that many of the shops Krista went to today won’t even charge anything for what she chose. Just being able to say, Princess Krista Starguard shopped here and bought such-and-such item will more than offset the cost of anything she picked out.”

“Advertizing,” mused Derrick, shaking his head. “Sometimes it amazes me how much the people of the Empire and of Earth are alike.”

“Why not?” asked Layla. “We’re all Human.”

-

For the next several hours Layla and Derrick watched as all the furnishings that Krista had picked out were unloaded and were brought to her Royal Suite of rooms. She had six rooms in total, and Krista had picked out furnishings for all them. Emira and several special Palace decorators were assisting with the placement of everything.

“I hope you like everything,” Krista said to Layla, a huge smile on her face.

“What’s important is that you do,” replied Layla.

Krista watched as a huge bed was carried in. “How soon before you furnish and decorate your rooms?” Krista was anxious to move into the Palace, but she wouldn’t until Layla did as well.

“I’ll pick out some furniture in a few more days,” replied Layla. “Derrick will help me.”

“I will?” asked Derrick, surprised.

Layla laughed. “Of course. One of these days you will be living here as well.”

Krista came to stand next to Layla. “How soon can we move in? It’s not as noisy now as it was.”

About then a loud crashing sound came from outside, as part of the wall in a sky tower was demolished. Most of the tower would be replaced.

“In a few more weeks. By then the noise level should be considerably less.”

“I checked earlier, and the main dining room for the Royal Family is finished, as well as the main kitchen. Let’s invite Captain Barkley and a few others and have a meal there. It will be the first one in over one thousand years.”

Layla was surprised by Krista’s suggestion. “I like that idea. Why don’t we decide who to invite and set it up for later this week? We still must hire a kitchen staff.”

“I already spoke to Chancellor Stein. He has the kitchen staff lined up, as well as a group of servers.”

“Been busy, haven’t you?” said Layla, laughing.

A serious look crossed Krista’s face. “I just want our lives to be normal again, and that won’t happen until we’re back in the Palace.”

Layla fully understood this. “Then I guess we better decide who we’re inviting. It should be special, since this will signify the Palace is finally returning to normal.” Layla felt a growing excitement. It was nearing time for the Imperial Palace to open up and to once more become a symbol for the people of the Empire. This meal could be the beginning of a new era for the Human race.

Chapter Eight

Lormallian Admiral Zador waited patiently as his flagship dropped out of hyperspace near the Human world of Astor. It was one of the few Human worlds on the perimeter of their Empire that actually had a defensive grid around it as well as a few protective warships. Zador was determined to pacify all the Human worlds in his sector, and this was the only one that posed a potential threat.

The Lormallians were the oldest of the seven races, custodians of the Confederation archives, standing seven feet tall with a bone crest instead of hair.

“Detecting three Imperial battlecruisers and twelve support ships,” reported First Officer Dabon. “Also a weak defensive grid surrounds the planet.”

“We are being ordered to leave the system immediately,” added the communications officer. “The Humans say they are no longer under the influence of the Confederation.”

Admiral Zador merely shook his head. The sheer impudence of these Humans was simply amazing. “Continue to close on the planet. We will engage and destroy the Human warships and then take out their defensive grid. I see the planet has two small space stations. Are they armed?”

“No weapons detected,” replied the sensor officer.

“We will leave the space stations, as they may prove useful in the future.”

“Admiral, the warships are falling back into the defensive grid,” reported First Officer Dabon.

Zador frowned. This would make them more difficult to destroy. “Continue to advance. We will engage the warships and the defensive grid at the same time.”

-

From the two shipyards, pleas for help were broadcast. Unfortunately they knew they were far away from the nearest Resistance Fleets or Imperial forces. Help would not reach them in time. Helplessly the crews of the stations watched as the Lormallian fleet drew closer.

-

In the underground Command Center beneath the capital on Golan Four, Fleet Admiral Marloo and General Gantts listened to the pleas for help, knowing they could do nothing.

“Our nearest Resistance Fleet is almost a full day away,” said Marloo, shaking his head. “Even if it could reach them, that fleet is not large enough to drive off the Lormallians.”

“This will happen a lot over the next few months, until we have more warships,” replied Gantts, wishing they could do more. “We must make sure we save as many worlds as possible while we can.”

“We’re building defensive grid elements and ODPs as rapidly as possible. Of course the ODPs are being deployed around the core worlds first. As soon as they’re adequately defended, we’ll send them to other worlds. Fortunately the worlds in the Haven Nebula, the Vortex Worlds, and the Lamina Stars have the necessary resources to build defensive grid elements as well as ODPs. In a few weeks they will also build their first attack interceptors.”

General Gantts nodded. “Until then, all we can do is slow down the advance of the Confederation fleets as much as possible and try to save as many worlds as we can.”

-

On the main shipyard above Astor, the civilian in charge shook her head. “There’s nothing more we can do. I want as many people as possible evacuated from the station. All ships that have hyperspace drives are to jump out now and head to the nearest free world. We’ll close down the station and take the shuttles to the surface.”

-

Admiral Zador watched the tactical display as the Human civilian ships with hyperspace drives left the system. “Let them go. They’ll spread the word that the Confederation will soon be coming for all the Human worlds.”

The Lormallian fleet was comprised of over nine hundred vessels in all. Other ships of the fleet were currently in orbit above Human worlds that had been retaken and put under control of the Confederation once more.

“Engagement range with the defensive grid in seven minutes,” reported First Officer Dabon. “The grid consists of energy beam satellites and missile platforms.”

“Target the three battlecruisers first,” ordered Zador. “They’re the only vessels that might be a danger to us, if they’re armed with antimatter weapons.”

The fleet continued to close and opened fire on the defensive grid as well as the three Resistance Fleet battlecruisers. At the same time the defensive grid fired and launched all its missiles. All three battlecruisers flushed their missile tubes, loading new missiles and launching as rapidly as possible. The support ships moved closer to the battlecruisers to give them added protection. The crews of the ships knew there was little chance of them surviving, but they would make the Lormallians pay for attacking this world.

-

On the surface of the planet, the people looked up to see thousands of explosions lighting up the night sky. Everyone knew what this meant. The Confederation had returned.

-

The defensive grid was hit hard. Satellite after satellite was blown apart, raining glowing debris upon the planet. However, some of the missile platforms contained antimatter missiles, and all these had been fired at the Lormallian fleet before the platforms were blown out of orbit.

Eight Lormallian battlecruisers suddenly found their shields knocked down from the heavy pounding of the antimatter missiles. More of the deadly missiles arrived, and all eight ships exploded and died in fiery deaths of rampaging antimatter energy.

A Lormallian battleship was targeted by the Resistance Fleet battlecruisers and their support ships. The shield suddenly weakened, and a fusion missile blew the ship in two. Energy beams from the dying defensive grid finished off the two pieces, turning them into lifeless hulks.

One of the Resistance Fleet battlecruisers died when its energy shield failed. The other two rapidly followed, as overwhelming firepower from the Lormallian fleet blew them apart. The Resistance Fleet support ships lasted only a few seconds longer than the battlecruisers they were trying to defend. In what looked like miniature novas, they died one by one.

-

Admiral Zador felt rising anger at the loss of nine of his warships. He hadn’t expected to lose any. Logically he knew that ships would be lost from time to time in battle. Taking a deep breath, he accepted what had just occurred. “Finish off the defense grid. We’ll leave a battleship and four battlecruisers to ensure this system stays under Confederation control. For the time being, all Human cargo and passenger ships are banned from leaving this world or traveling to it.” That would teach them to rebel against the Confederation.

-

Fleet Admiral Marloo and General Gantts exchanged glances.

“I guess that’s that,” said Gantts. “The Confederation has retaken control of another Human world.”

“We hurt them some,” replied Marloo. “One of their battleships and eight of their battlecruisers. While we can’t face them fleet for fleet, we can gradually weaken their forces. That’s what we must do. The Confederation must pay a cost for every Human world they reconquer.”

General Gantts shifted her gaze to a massive holographic display that showed the Human Empire. Worlds controlled by the Empire were in green, and worlds controlled by the Confederation were in red. A large number of worlds were in yellow—the ones that neither the new Empire or the Confederation had control of. “We have a lot of work to do over the next few months.”

Fleet Admiral Marloo nodded. “A lot will depend on what happens at Earth. We must hope that Earth finds a way to defeat the Confederation attack soon heading toward them.”

-

Admiral Dylan Cleemorl was preparing to go on a special mission as the special envoy for Layla, and would briefly visit twenty-two former Imperial worlds that Layla hoped would agree to rejoin the Empire. Krista was going on a tour of the core worlds. Chancellor Stein would be accompanying her. The plans called for them to be gone a total of ten days. Layla had promised Krista, when she returned, that they would all move into the Palace.

As a precaution, Emira would go along to ensure the young Princess dressed and acted appropriately. Originally Layla had intended on touring the core worlds. However, she had decided too much was going on with the pending attack on Earth and with the Confederation fleets in the Empire, so it was best if she stayed on Golan Four.

“Must Emira come with me on my tour?” asked Krista for the tenth time.

Krista and Layla were about to host the first official meal in the Imperial Palace in over one thousand years. Nearly one hundred people had been invited. Many were in the military, as well as selected government officials. A few of the mayors of some of the larger cities on Golan Four would be attending as well.

While this would be a formal meal, it would also serve as a meet and greet for people who wanted to meet the two Princesses. Several attendants were currently in Krista’s suite of rooms, as they had been completely furnished, getting the Princesses ready for tonight’s event.

“I like this gown for you, Princess Layla,” announced Emira, it was a light-blue silk, which fell just above Layla’s ankle. It had a little lace on the shoulders and, while elegant, wasn’t too frilly.

“I like that one,” admitted Krista. “What do you have picked out for me?”

Emira gestured toward one of the attendants, who stepped into the other room and returned with a light-green gown with a little more lace than the one Layla would wear. It was a little shorter but not by much. “I also took the liberty of speaking to Devon Muroow. It seems the Royal Jewelry was stored in the underground vault at the Imperial Library. I had him bring a few pieces by earlier.”

Layla and Krista both approached a jewelry box sitting on one of the dressers. Layla opened it, and both Royals gasped. They recognized this jewelry. Some of it their mothers had worn, and other pieces the two Princesses had worn on special Royal occasions.

“This will work perfectly,” said Layla, as she picked up a necklace covered in jewels. A large blue star sapphire was the centerpiece.

Krista picked out a necklace with a medium-size emerald. “I wore this to Mom and Dad’s twenty-fifth wedding anniversary,” she said, a tear forming in her eye.

Layla nodded. “I remember. You looked very beautiful that night, and your parents were extremely proud of you.”

Krista looked at Layla with a serious look in her face. “Please don’t let me screw up anything. I know I’m impulsive at times, but I really want the best for both of us and the Empire.”

“I know,” said Layla, stepping closer and giving Krista a quick hug.

“We better get the two of you dressed,” said Emira. “Your guests will be arriving in about an hour.”

-

Derrick wore his dress uniform and stood next to Fleet Admiral Marloo. General Gantts and Admiral Dylan Cleemorl. “Have you ever been to something like this before?”

Marloo laughed. “Not even close. Some of the speeches and greetings will be broadcast across the core worlds, but all the media will be shut down once the meal starts.”

Derrick saw Cheryl enter and move to Dylan’s side. She was dressed in a gorgeous gown that was pretty low-cut. Derrick knew Cheryl liked to show off her assets, and assets she definitely had. Cheryl and General Lyra Gantts immediately started talking, and soon both were laughing. Leave it to Cheryl to feel perfectly comfortable in this setting. Chancellor Stein came in and soon made his way around the room, speaking to the various guests.

Drinks were served, as well as some hors d’oeuvres on silver platters. Several wines were offered alongside nonalcoholic drinks.

Colonel Emerson of the Imperial Guard suddenly appeared, and his voice echoed through the large dining hall. “The High Princess Layla Starguard and Princess Krista Starguard.” Both Princesses entered the hall with smiles on their faces.

This was Derrick’s cue, and he quickly moved to Layla’s side. Captain Barkley was here as well, but he was busy talking to various people about the attack interceptors. It wasn’t necessary for him to be at Krista’s side, until time for the meal to be served.

“We’ll move about the room, making small talk,” explained Layla in a low voice. “It’s expected of us. We’ll take about thirty minutes to make our rounds, and then we’ll move to the head of the main table and announce it’s time for the meal to be served. Once the meal is over, we’ll remain seated but will allow our guests to come forward to ask questions.”

“Layla will answer most of the questions,” said Krista, grinning.

“As you will be also,” replied Layla. “It’s something you must get used to doing.” Layla put her hand on Derrick’s arm, and the three of them began making their rounds.

-

A little over thirty minutes later Layla, Derrick, and Krista made their way to the head table.

Chancellor Stein had been watching for this, and, as soon as the three reached their seats, he asked for everyone to be seated, as the meal was ready to be served.

Captain Barkley reached his chair at the same time that Krista reached hers. The two Princesses sat first, and then everyone else in the room found their chairs and sat down as well.

“I hope I don’t make a fool of myself,” said Mathew quietly. “This definitely is not a fast-food joint.”

Krista laughed. “Don’t worry. Just follow my lead. Keep in mind that no one else here, other than Layla and I, have ever eaten a meal like this either. Most of our guests will be unsure what they should do and will be watching us. We have a number of attendants who will go around answering questions and helping out where necessary.”

While they were waiting for dinner to be served to all, High Princess Layla stood and made a short speech, thanking everyone for attending, saying many more such meals would be held at the Palace once it was fully rebuilt.

Derrick then stood and offered a toast to the new Human Empire.

“How did he know to do that?” asked Mathew, looking at Krista.

“Emira. She’s been to a number of these in the past, when the Palace was in its prime. She’s a stickler for details, and she knows everything.”

-

The first course was brought out, and soon everyone was busy eating. They were using fine china and crystal glasses, which made some nervous about dropping and breaking something. After all, this Imperial china was over one thousand years old. Layla had Devon bring it from the vault in the Imperial Library, as she wanted to impress her guests.

Mathew watched as the courses were brought out one at a time. He was surprised to find he felt more at ease. Of course with Krista constantly talking to him and explaining what the food was helped tremendously. Of the five courses, he had eaten none of it before. Some of it was similar to Earth food, but the taste wasn’t the same. Of course it was all delicious. Finally, after dessert was served, he was quite full.

“That was good,” he remarked, as he took a sip of his wine. “Of course it helps that you’re sitting next to me.”

Krista grinned. “That’s one thing I always liked about these meals. They’re prepared by the best chefs on the planet. The food is always cooked perfectly. I’m glad you enjoyed it. Are you ready for your new job training future pilots?”

Mathew nodded. “Yes, I’ve drafted a few from my squadron to assist. If all goes well, our first training class will happen late next week. We’re still building the flight simulators, as we’ll need quite a few.”

Krista reached under the table and squeezed Mathew’s hand. “Just think. You will be based close to the capital. That means we can see each other more often.”

“I’ll like that part,” replied Mathew, grinning.

-

Layla waited until everyone was nearly finished with their dessert before she stood to address her guests. “As the Imperial Palace is restored, we will have more and more functions here, including daily audiences in the Royal Court as well as the work of managing the Empire. Many positions need to be filled. That is one of the reasons for having meals such as this, so I can become more familiar with some of the people who I may ask to fill those positions. We have much work still ahead of us. Shortly Princess Krista will depart on a tour of all the core worlds. In addition, Admiral Cleemorl will be visiting some of the other Human worlds we want to bring into our new Empire.”

Layla paused as her gaze moved over the listening crowd. “Captain Mathew Barkley is here tonight. I am pleased to announce he has been promoted to the rank of major and will be responsible for training our pilots for our new attack interceptors. In addition, we will be converting one of our major shipyards to build the battlecarriers that will serve as mobile bases for the interceptors. Those are all the announcements for now. Feel free to move about and mingle. Princess Krista and I are available to answer questions, so don’t hesitate to come up.”

-

For the next hour numerous men and women came to the head table to ask questions. Layla, Krista, Fleet Admiral Marloo, Admiral Cleemorl, Derrick, and Mathew did their best to answer and to explain numerous plans and what needed to be done to fully restore the Empire.

Finally the last guest was ushered out, and Layla leaned back in her chair. “While I enjoy these meals, for some reason they seem very tiring at times.”

Derrick laughed. “You did great tonight. I think you impressed everyone here.”

“And the food was excellent,” said Cheryl, smiling. She sat at the head table on the other side of Dylan.

“I think a lot was accomplished tonight,” added Dylan. “People are beginning to see the Imperial Palace as the seat of power for the Empire. We must continue to build upon that.”

“I agree,” said Fleet Admiral Marloo. “Now, if you will excuse me, I must get home. I have a long day planned for tomorrow.”

Over the next few minutes everyone went their separate ways, allowing the serving staff to come in to clear off the tables. Emira was present, ensuring everything was put back in its correct place and that the servers were careful with the china.

-

As Dylan and Cheryl left for their new home in the suburbs, Cheryl turned toward Dylan. “I think I’ll enjoy living here, especially if we get to attend functions like tonight. Did you see all the jealous looks I got from the women because I was seated at the head table?”

Dylan shook his head. Only Cheryl would come up with something like that. “Maybe they were just jealous because you were sitting next to me.”

Cheryl put her arm in Dylan’s. “Well, they can just be jealous. You’re mine, and I’m not letting you go.”

The two got inside a waiting aircar and were soon on their way back home.

-

Mathew and Krista had gone into the Royal Court to look at all the artwork. Krista never grew tired of this. “You should see what all is stored at the Imperial Library. I can’t wait to get more of it displayed here. Art should be enjoyed by everyone, not locked up in the dark.”

Mathew looked at the two Imperial Guards standing a short distance away, discreetly watching them. Mathew knew that, because Krista was one of the two Royal Princesses, the guards would always be around. He would get used to it.

The two were holding hands and stopped in front of the statue of Layla’s father. “He was a great man,” said Krista, recalling his powerful voice and his love for his family. “I do wish Aiden were here.”

“You and Layla are here, and that is what Aiden, Layla’s parents, and your parents wanted. The future is yours to build.”

“I know, and that’s what’s so frightening. I just hope we don’t screw it up.”

Mathew squeezed Krista’s hand. “You won’t, and, if you do mess something up, you have some good people around you to help straighten it out.”

Krista nodded. She was glad Mathew was in her life. It helped to give her the strength she would need in the future.

-

Layla and Derrick were at the top of one of the newly refurbished sky towers. They stood on a large balcony, overlooking the capital.

“It’s so beautiful up here,” said Layla. She looked down at all the city lights and the lights from the aircars that zoomed about. The capital stretched out for kilometers in all directions.

“It is something to see,” admitted Derrick. A gentle breeze blew, and the sky was clear. Looking up, he saw thousands of stars glittering in the night sky. “I can see why people enjoy these sky towers so much.”

Layla smiled. “Many Imperial offices are in the towers. It’s where the work of the Empire was done. Sometimes it frightens me thinking about everything to be decided.”

Derrick took Layla into his arms and kissed her. “You and Krista will get it all figured out. The two of you were trained for this. Just follow your instincts, and the two of you will do fine.”

Layla stayed in Derrick’s arms, leaning her head against his shoulder. “I know. It’s one of the reasons Krista and Chancellor Stein are touring the core worlds. I need a list of possible candidates to fill hundreds of Imperial positions.”

“Let’s not worry about that for now,” replied Derrick. “Let’s just watch the stars and the lights of the city. The future will take care of itself.” Derrick had all the confidence in the world in the two Princesses. They had an Empire to rebuild, and Derrick knew that, someday, they would do just that.

Chapter Nine

Pallas-based Fleet Admiral Reynolds was meeting in person with three of his six admirals in the Human Empire. Rear Admiral Leeson had arrived with Second Fleet the day before.

“We expect the Confederation attack to occur in three to six weeks and to hit our most likely targets—Earth, the Moon, Mars, Pallas, Ganymede, and Titan,” Reynolds informed the gathered admirals. The other admirals had been advised via hyperlight transmission. “Rear Admiral Collison, your fleet will continue to protect Earth. Rear Admiral Mendoza, your fleet will be responsible for Mars, and that leaves Second Fleet.” Reynolds paused and looked at Rear Admiral Leeson. “We’ll leave Second Fleet unassigned. We’ll send you wherever we need you the most. That could be anywhere in the Solar System—even to Ganymede but we probably can’t send you out as far as Titan. We’ll station Second Fleet near the Moon and wait to see where its needed.”

Rear Admiral Leeson nodded. “In the meantime, what precautions are we taking to protect Earth and the other colonies in the system?”

We’re increasing the strength of all the defensive grids on those worlds deemed targets, especially on Jupiter’s moon Ganymede, both in orbit and on the moon itself, as well as Saturn’s moon Titan. We’re also trying to get the smaller colonies to evacuate. We won’t have the resources to defend them all.”

Rear Admiral Leeson looked concerned. “So what’s the status on sending further military materials and ships to other parts of the Empire?”

“Not good. Until we deal with this enemy fleet the Confederation has sent, all military convoys are on hold. That goes for ships too. There’s been some pressure to return Third Fleet from the core worlds as well, but we don’t want to risk giving up the gains we have made in taking back certain viable and vital worlds of the Empire.”

“How badly will they hurt us?” Leeson was deeply worried that much of the infrastructure they had built over the last century just to fight this war could be in danger.

Reynolds took in a deep breath before answering Leeson. “We’re hoping to hold Titan, Ganymede, Pallas, Mars, the Moon, and Earth. We’ll probably lose everything else. That’s why the smaller colonies are being evacuated.”

“A lot of people are on some of those smaller colonies. What’ll happen to them?”

“We’ll evacuate as many as we can.”

“Some won’t leave their homes,” predicted Leeson. “Will we use force to remove them?”

“That’s not in the current plans,” replied Reynolds. “We’ll evacuate those who want to leave and then see who’s left.”

“One advantage we may have are the attack interceptors,” said Rear Admiral Collison. “We’ll have nearly 14,000 of them to help in our defense.”

“I hope so. The Morag will lead this Confederation fleet,” added Reynolds. “Not a lot is known about them, except that they are supposedly very dangerous and may even be the leading power of the seven races.”

“So what do we do now?” asked Leeson. He didn’t like some of what he had heard. He hated abandoning some of the colonies. People had worked hard to make a living on those asteroids and small moons.

“We let our ship crews rest as much as possible for the next two weeks, and then we must be ready for all-out war.”

For the next three hours the admirals talked and discussed strategies. At the end of that time they returned to their flagships. There was not a lot they could do until the Confederation fleet showed up, except consider various plans on how to take down an opponent they knew little about and had never engaged before.

-

On Gateway One, Colonel Henderson was in the Command Center, his focus on the large viewscreens. Hundreds of attack interceptors were involved in war games, all aimed at defending the large space station.

“Impressive so far,” commented Major Patricia Marcus. “Their formations are tight, and they’re making their attack runs as ordered. I just wish all the weaving and changing trajectories wasn’t necessary.”

Henderson nodded. “I agree, but the interceptors only have a forward shield. It could possibly deflect one shot from a fusion cannon, but the second will overload it and will destroy the interceptor.”

Henderson’s gaze moved to another screen, which showed one of the six large ODPs that orbited the station. Each ODP was as powerful as three dreadnoughts. “I want to run some damage control drills. If the Confederation attacks, we’d be fools to think they won’t hit the station. I want the living quarters’ section reinforced with armor and made as self-contained as possible.”

The Command Center was already protected by a heavy layer of battle armor. It would take a direct hit by a fusion or antimatter missile to destroy it. “Let’s go ahead and request another full company of Marines from Earth, in case there’s a boarding action. I don’t want Confederation troops running loose on this station.”

“I’ll speak to General Brice immediately,” replied Major Marcus. “Are you sure one hundred additional Marines will be enough?”

“It should be. We already have eighty on the station and forty more on the interceptor platform.”

“Colonel, Councilor Newcomb is on the comm for you,” reported the communications officer.

“Very well, transfer it to my office, and I’ll take it in there.” Looking at Major Marcus, he added, “Keep the interceptors working on their patterns and the attack vectors. I’ll be back shortly.”

Colonel Henderson made his way to his office, attached to the Command Center. Stepping inside, he closed the door for privacy. “Good afternoon, Brett,” he spoke into his comm unit, located on his desk.

“You won’t believe what I just found out,” said Brett breathlessly. “You know that Rear Admiral Masters asked if we could find any direct descendants of High Prince Aiden Starguard and Lieutenant Maya Breams?”

“Yes. Did you find any in your search?” Loren had been curious about what the search would find.

“Two,” replied Brett. “You won’t believe who they are.”

“Who?” asked Loren. He couldn’t understand why Brett was so excited. “Who are they?”

“Linda Wilcox and her son, Andrew!”

“You’re kidding me!” exclaimed Loren in disbelief. “Are you telling me that Andrew is a Royal?”

“Yep, he would be fourth in line for the rulership of the Empire behind High Princess Layla, Princess Krista, and his mother.”

Loren leaned back in his chair and started laughing. “Oh, this will be good. Who will tell Andrew?”

“Derrick,” replied Brett. “This also means that Andrew will soon be living at the Imperial Palace.”

“What about his mother and father? They’re both still alive.”

“I’ve already spoken to his mother. When I told her, she only smiled and nodded her head. Then she said she would remain on Earth, as it was her home. Somehow I got the distinct impression she already knew.”

Loren nodded. “It wouldn’t surprise me. If I remember correctly, she has researched the history of the Imperials who were banished to Earth and made sure to share that with Andrew. It just surprises me that she kept this part of it a secret for so long.”

“I don’t think she wanted it to influence Andrew’s life. I’ll send a message to Derrick shortly. We must ensure that Andrew is moved to a safe location. It wouldn’t look good if we allowed a Royal to be killed in a battle against the Confederation.”

“That brings up another issue,” said Loren. “What about Kala? She’s still on Pallas, and they have a very nice home there.”

Brett was silent for several moments. “I’ll suggest to Derrick that he have Andrew bring Kala to Golan Four immediately. I would like to have her out of the system before the Confederation attacks.”

“We’ll arrange for a strong escort. Can we spare the ships?”

“In this instance I don’t think we have any choice. We must keep her safe, and the safest place for her will be with Andrew on Golan Four.”

“I’ll contact Admiral Reynolds and have him make the arrangements as soon as Andrew has contacted Kala. I sure would like to see the look on her face when she finds out.”

Brett started laughing. “So would I. I’m also making arrangements to have Andrew’s mother and father moved to a safe place, as soon as we detect the Confederation fleet.”

“I wish we knew more about the Morag,” said Loren. “These other Confederation races use overwhelming force and firepower to accomplish their victories. That didn’t work with us. The Morag may be entirely different.”

“All we can do is prepare to the best of our abilities,” relied Brett.

“You’re right. We’ll know how prepared we are in a few more weeks.”

-

General Aleck Weston was on a tour of the perimeter defenses for Earth’s largest shipyard, Alpha One, which served as his Command Center. He had been begging and screaming for more defensive satellites and missile platforms for weeks. They had finally arrived, and he was now supervising their placement. He was really pleased with the four ODPs, sent with promises of two more in the coming week. Major Glen Alexander, the station’s tactical officer, flew the small shuttle.

“We should put them far enough out so they won’t interfere with our own weapons fire but not too far out where we can’t protect them,” said Alexander. “We’ll also have access to attack interceptors from Earth, when the Confederation fleet arrives.”

“Rear Admiral Collison’s fleet will be in Earth orbit as well,” replied Weston. “They can provide added support, if needed.”

As they watched, an Earth cargo ship released four satellites and a missile platform. The missile platforms were large with energy shields and fusion energy cannons. The platforms would also have a small crew of six onboard when they were brought online.

General Weston let out a deep sigh. “We have a lot of real estate to protect. I bet, in this attack, the Confederation will hit multiple targets at once, making it difficult for us to respond.”

“We’re still building warships and parts for the defensive grids as fast as we can,” replied Major Alexander. “Factories are running 24/7. If the Confederation comes, we’ll make this system a killing zone.”

“We may, but I’m afraid we’ll still lose a lot of valuable assets. We’re just spread out over too much of the system.”

Major Alexander nodded. “I know, but we must make the Confederation pay a heavy price for everything they take from us.”

General Weston looked out the side cockpit window. Two battlecruisers were visible in the distance. A flight of barely visible attack interceptors were headed out on patrol. The flight pattern around the shipyard was always busy, and Flight Control did a great job keeping the traffic organized and keeping track of where each ship or attack interceptor was supposed to go.

“It’ll take a few days to get all the satellites and missile platforms in position,” said Major Alexander.

“I’ll be glad when they’re in place,” replied General Weston. “We’re bound to be a priority target when the Confederation attack takes place.”

Major Alexander changed the shuttle’s course toward the massive shipyard. It was the largest orbital structure Earth had ever built. It was covered in defensive and offensive weapons. Energy beam turrets were everywhere, as well as circular hatches covering missile tubes.

The entire shipyard was covered in a thick layer of battle armor. The station had been upgraded to where it now had five construction bays and three repair bays. In addition, several large landing bays were set aside for the 120 attack interceptors kept onboard. The shipyard was not just responsible for protecting itself but for protecting Earth as well.

-

Colonel Macy Abrams was in charge of the orbital defenses of Mars. She was also stationed on the largest of their two shipyards.

“At least we have a fleet to help defend us,” said Major Brit Tompkins, her tactical officer. “Rear Admiral Mendoza will be covering us with his Sixth Fleet.”

“I wish it were bigger,” said Macy. “From the latest reports Mendoza is getting 412 battlecruisers and 32 dreadnoughts. At least we have over 2,000 attack interceptors based on Mars.”

Macy’s gaze shifted to the main viewscreen in the busy Command Center, focused on the now blue-white world of Mars. Over 212 million Humans lived on the planet. “It’s strange to see all the water,” she said. “I can’t believe how much the planet’s changed.”

“Nearly 32 percent of the surface is now covered in water,” replied Tompkins.

Macy could barely see the peak of Olympus Mons, the highest mountain on the planet at just over 72,000 feet. It was covered in snow. Climbers were banned from the upper slopes of the mountain because the air was so thin. It was also unbelievably cold. Olympus Mons was nearly two and a half times higher than Mount Everest on Earth. A weather station was on the summit that was manned all year long. It was a job she wouldn’t care for.

Some discussion had been had about putting a Planetary Defense Center, a PDC, atop the mountain, but engineers had deemed it unsafe and impractical. “I have a meeting tomorrow with Governor Fuller. We’ll discuss the coming attack and what else can be done to prepare for it.”

“What will you tell her? It’s not easy to hide from a fusion or antimatter strike.”

“I’ll recommend sending as many people away from the big cities as possible. Those will be the primary targets. The planet already has some deep bunkers in case of an attack. We know the earliest time the Confederation fleets can be here. I’ll recommend that all those bunkers be packed full by that date, and everyone else can be moved to the smaller cities. I want the city of Marsonna completely evacuated, as it will be the primary target on the planet.”

“Marsonna has a defensive ring of fusion energy cannons around it,” protested Tompkins. “There are missile batteries as well and four PDCs nearby. Are you saying those won’t be enough?”

“They won’t be enough. If the Confederation is highly determined—and I suspect they are—they’ll get a missile through to Marsonna.”

Tompkins was quiet as he thought over Colonel Macy Abrams’s words. He had been to Marsonna a number of times. It was the most advanced city in the Solar System, next to Luna City. He would hate to see it destroyed.

-

Colonel Green, commander of Ganymede, was again arguing with the chief scientist on Europa via hyperlight transmission. For several days now Green had been trying to get the scientist to evacuate his people off the moon Europa and to Ganymede, with its burgeoning defense systems.

“They won’t attack us,” said Alvin Grayson stubbornly. “We’re not a military target.”

“It won’t matter,” replied Green, frustrated. Why couldn’t he make this scientist understand the danger? “They will attack Europa just because Humans live here.”

“We have a defensive grid, and our ODP sits right above our main colony.”

“Not nearly enough defensive measures,” replied Green. “The Confederation will blow right through your defenses.”

“Then send us more,” demanded Grayson. “It’s your duty to protect us.”

“There’s no more available. Every colony in the system is screaming for an increase in their defense grids. We’ve given Europa everything we can.”

“Well, we’re not leaving,” said Grayson stubbornly, and the comm went dead.

“He’s disconnected,” reported the communications officer.

“The fool,” said Major Gina Nelson, second in command. “He’s dooming everyone on that moon.”

“He doesn’t care,” said the comm officer. “All he’s concerned about is his research. You’re talking war, and he’s talking science.”

“Send a message to Admiral Reynolds that the scientists on Europa refuse to evacuate.” Colonel Green leaned back in his command chair, letting out a deep sigh.

Many of the smaller mining operations were doing the same. They were afraid, if they moved out, even for a short while, someone else might move in. Some had evacuated, but many still refused to.

On the main viewscreen, a battlecruiser was visible. Unfortunately, once the Confederation fleet was detected, all the warships in the Jovian system would head for Earth, leaving Colonel Green on his own. A pair of interceptors suddenly appeared and moved across the screen. At least he had a large number of those. However, he would give anything for a fleet of battlecruisers.

-

Colonel Edwards was in the Command Center of the only space station in orbit of Titan, the only moon of Saturn that was heavily colonized. Small mining settlements were on some of the other moons, and most of them were being evacuated.

“We have two more ODPs that will be delivered next week,” reported Major Janine Patterson. “I just spoke to Governor Blake, and he expects at least one, maybe two more PDCs should be finished before the Confederation fleet gets here.”

“I’ve asked for two hundred more attack interceptors,” said Edwards, “though I don’t know if we’ll get them or not. They’re in high demand all over the system, as we’re running short on warships.”

On the main viewscreen, a mining ship came to dock with the station. It ran heavy with a load of heavy metal ores.

“Are we staying onboard the station?” asked Patterson.

Colonel Edwards shook his head. “That would be suicide. We’ll keep a very small crew in the Command Center, and, when it reaches the point the station won’t survive, they’ll evacuate to the surface. We already have a secondary Command Center built underground near the capital.”

Major Patterson frowned. “It took us years to build this station. I hate to see us lose it.”

“I know, but, unless there’s a miracle, I don’t see what we can do to save it.”

Patterson was quiet as she watched the mining ship on the viewscreen. “I guess we should just hope we live through the attack. I’m afraid a lot of people won’t.”

Colonel Edwards didn’t reply. He knew that Admiral Reynolds and others were deeply worried about what would happen in the Solar System if the Morag Confederation fleet were truly large. It could set the Earth system back decades.

-

In the Pallas Command Center, Admiral Reynolds had just gotten off a conference call with all the governors of the major colonies, as well as the most important leaders on Earth. Everyone was worried about what would happen. Earth militaries were preparing for an actual attack on Earth itself. Weapons systems were pointed toward space, and Army and Marine forces had been deployed across the planet. Mass launchings of attack interceptors were rehearsed nearly every day.

“Admiral, look at this,” said Colonel Evelyn Bryson, a pained look on her face. “We now know the approximate size of the inbound Confederation fleet. We also know that it’s left Confederation space and is heading toward us.”

Reynolds took the piece of paper Bryson held and read the message. He let out a deep breath and looked up at her. “Well, we were expecting a major attack. It appears 8,200 Confederation warships are coming toward us, led by the Morag. We have a little over three weeks to finish our preparations.”

“This will be bad, won’t it?”

Reynolds nodded. He wouldn’t lie. “It looks like it. It just depends on how good this Morag admiral is who’s leading the combined fleets. The Confederation has attacked us twice and failed. I’m sure this admiral has studied those attacks and has planned accordingly.”

“How soon will you tell the admirals?”

“Tomorrow,” replied Reynolds. “I want to see if I can find out any more information first.”

Reynolds leaned back in his chair and laid the message on his desk. The Confederation was coming for Earth, and Reynolds wasn’t sure if they could stop them.

Chapter Ten

Morag Fleet Admiral Horrabe sat in his command chair, examining video footage of the two previous attacks on the Earth star system. No doubt that Earth’s use of computer viruses had played a key role in the system’s survival. This time, however, Horrabe had ensured every ship’s computer system in his fleet was protected by the most powerful firewalls known to the Confederation. In addition, he had some computer specialists whose sole jobs were to ensure the computer systems on all the fleet’s warships stayed safe.

The Humans of Earth have been fortunate not to have faced the Morag, sent High Commander Corr telepathically.

Telepathy was the Morags’ greatest secret. No other known race possessed the ability, and the Morag had used telepathy for years to control the Great Council. Even the original war against the Human Empire had been orchestrated by the Morag. The most powerful Morag telepaths could implant suggestions in the minds of other races.

When the Morag discovered that the Humans were immune to such manipulation, the Morag High Council decided to conquer the Human star systems to prevent them from becoming a future danger. The Great Council of the Confederation had no idea that, for thousands of years, the Morag had secretly controlled the Great Council using telepathy to ensure the council did the bidding of the Morag.

The use of telepathy had caused the seven races to come together to begin with. It was all part of the Morag’s long-range plan to control the galaxy.

“Speak aloud,” ordered Horrabe. “We must practice that, as we are in a fleet with the other six races.”

“As you command,” replied High Commander Corr. “We are still eighteen days from the Earth system. How many probes will we launch?”

“Over one thousand,” replied Horrabe. “I want to know where every colony, mining site, and ship is in that system. In addition, all the defenses in the system are to be scanned thoroughly. There will be no surprises from these Humans.”

“How will we attack?”

“We will divide the fleet and destroy all of their weaker colonies first, in an attempt to draw out their fleet. If they refuse to engage, we will destroy all the targets of interest we can. Everything we destroy only weakens them in the end.”

“Will we burn their worlds?”

Horrabe nodded. “Yes, when we leave their system, it will be dead, and no life will exist on any of their worlds. It will also serve as a lesson to the rebellious worlds of the Human Empire, making them realize the danger of disobeying the Confederation.”

“We have greatly expanded the Confederation in the last one thousand years,” said High Commander Corr. “We have reached the size now where we are by far the dominant power in the galaxy.” The Morag routinely sent out exploratory missions to seek potential future enemies. They were familiar with more of the galaxy than all the other six races combined. Some large powers were found in the more distant sections of the galaxy, and, in time, those would have to be dealt with.

Horrabe looked at the viewscreen of the defensive grid around Earth. “We must not underestimate these Humans. The Humans of Earth have shown themselves to be cunning and very dangerous. We will not make the same mistake as the other Confederation admirals have.”

Looking at one of the Command Center’s tactical displays, Horrabe examined the thousands of green icons that represented the warships under his command. This was the largest fleet the Confederation had ever put together, and it was all aimed at destroying just one star system—a star system that had become a threat to the entire Confederation.

-

Princess Krista was on the planet Aquilla Three, visiting with Governor Gregory Staley and several of the planet’s military officers. Chancellor Stein was with her, as well as several other members of Golan Four’s military, who served as her advisors.

“We will begin construction of attack interceptors within the week,” reported Governor Staley. “Our first battlecruisers will be completed within six weeks and the first dreadnought in ten.”

“That sounds excellent,” replied Krista. She knew it was vitally important that the new Empire begin producing warships as quickly as possible.

Emira stood nearby, watching and listening. Krista knew, once she was through with this meeting, Emira would take her aside to explain everything she had done wrong and what she had done right.

At first, Krista had been very resentful of all the criticism, until she realized that Emira was correct. She amazingly knew everything. Sometimes Krista wondered if Emira had gone into cryo sleep at the urging of Krista’s parents, just so Krista would have someone to guide her in the future.

“We have begun training pilots on Golan Four at a special base being built just for that purpose. I’m sure I can arrange for some instructors to come to Aquilla Three to assist in training pilots here.”

One of Aquilla’s military officers stepped forward. “We would greatly appreciate that. I would hate to send inexperienced crews into combat. The casualties would be astronomical.”

Krista looked at General Abelson. He was in charge of both the ground forces and the space forces in the system. “That is why we’re offering to furnish trainers for the attack interceptors. Every world is in the same situation, with a tremendous lack of inexperience in their militaries with the newest technology.”

“We expect that to change rapidly,” added Chancellor Stein. “On every world we’re recommending setting up training centers for both our ground forces and our space fleets. For any world that needs it, we can send some aid in what needs to be done and the best way to go about training. We have many personnel from both Earth and the resistance movement that can be useful in this.”

General Abelson nodded. “We could definitely use some help with training our ground forces. I have all the volunteers I could possibly want, but the people to train them is lacking.”

“That can be arranged,” replied Stein. He knew Earth was very good at training militaries, particularly ground troops as well as Space Marines.

“We do not expect any major attacks by the Confederation for some weeks,” added Krista. She did not say the reason was due to the Confederation’s launching of a major attack against Earth. “We are using this time to consolidate what worlds we can and to build up our forces and defenses. There will come a time when we must move out from our region of space and take back the rest of the Human worlds of our Empire. We will be the strongest when all our worlds are once more joined together.”

“We feel as you do, Princess,” said Governor Staley. “We have been honored by your presence, and our people have been very pleased that you paid our world a visit. It has been a huge morale booster.”

Krista smiled. “I’ve enjoyed my time here and wish I could stay longer. When I can, I would like to return and see more of your world.”

The governor beamed. “We would enjoy having you. We have many sights that I believe you would enjoy.”

“We should be going,” said Krista. “We still have several more core worlds to visit. If we want to win this war, we must be ready for the next attack.”

“I’ll stay in touch,” said Chancellor Stein to General Abelson. “Make a list of what you need as far as instructors, and I’ll have them here within the week.”

General Abelson nodded. “That will be a huge benefit to us. I’ll inform my military commanders that arrangements are being made to have the appropriate training officers come to Aquilla to get our forces up to speed.”

-

An hour later they were back onboard the dreadnought High Kingdom. Several of the officers’ quarters had been hastily remodeled for Princess Krista and Chancellor Stein. The Imperial Guards and Emira had their own private quarters, as well as two attendants that Emira had insisted on bringing.

“You did fine, Princess,” said Emira, as they walked to their quarters. “With each meeting you act more and more like a Royal Princess of the Empire.”

Krista stopped and looked inquiringly at Emira. She had a question she had wanted to ask for weeks. “Did you know my parents?”

Emira smiled. “Yes, dear. I served as one of your mother’s main attendants for nearly twenty years. I also helped with the High Queen, when necessary.”

Krista nodded. “So that’s why you know all the protocols and everything.”

“Yes, they have always been a major part of my life. When it was obvious the Druins would attack us, your mother and the High Queen came to me and asked if I would be willing to go to Sanctuary and to look after the two of you. They were both concerned that, without their presence, no one would be available to assist you with all the protocols of being a Royal. They also knew how important that would be someday, if the Empire were to come back into being. I must say that their hopes have been realized. You and High Princess Layla have done far more than they could have ever hoped for. They would be extremely proud of both of you.”

Krista wiped the tears from her eyes and, stepping forward, gave a surprised Emira a very long and affectionate hug. “Thank you. I’m sorry if I’ve been such a brat upon occasion.”

Emira laughed. “That’s all part of growing up, and I would have been disappointed if you hadn’t been a little rebellious.”

They continued down the corridor, and Krista was soon back in her quarters. She quickly changed clothes into something more comfortable. She now looked upon Emira in a totally different light. Krista wondered if that was why Layla had insisted on Emira accompanying Krista on this tour. When Krista returned to Golan Four, she would thank Layla. For the first time in many years she felt confident in her duty as a Royal Princess of the Empire.

-

Admiral Cleemorl was at Xnea Two. A few years back some of its cities had been bombarded by the Druins because the planet had refused to turn over its young people to be taken to the Confederation. The destroyed cities had been rebuilt, and Xnea Two had no love for the Confederation.

“We would like to join the Empire,” said Governor Arnold. “Unfortunately we’re nearly a day’s travel from Golan Four. If the Confederation comes for us, we can’t call upon others for help.”

Dylan smiled. “I noticed you have a defensive grid above your planet.”

“The Resistance Fleet helped to put it up. We’ve just begun to manufacture additional satellites, and we’re several months from putting any missile platforms into orbit.”

“In orbit with me,” Dylan said, “I have ten very large cargo ships. I’ll put up twenty missile platforms and show your people how to operate them, if you will join the Empire and become a member of the House of Worlds.”

Governor Arnold leaned back in his chair, considering the offer. “If we join the Empire, we put our world at greater risk from the Confederation. Can you furnish us with four ODPs?”

Dylan slowly nodded his head. “In about a month that will be possible. I should also inform you that I will be traveling to the Hagen Star Cluster to speak to several of their governors. So help might end up being closer than you think. The worlds in the cluster are only four to six hours distant from you.”

“I wish you success,” said Governor Arnold. “Having some other worlds close by that will also be a part of the new Empire would be fantastic. You can tell the High Princess that Xnea Two is now part of the Empire.”

Dylan smiled, as he placed several forms on the governor’s desk for him to sign. The Empire was growing. Dylan just wished he knew what would happen at Earth. All this might be for naught if the Solar System was destroyed.

-

Four hours later Admiral Cleemorl was back onboard the Themis. He had ten dreadnoughts and eighty battlecruisers serving as an escort. It was a force that should impress the worlds of the former Empire he planned on visiting and still large enough to take on any Confederation force he might run across.

“So far, so good,” commented Captain Fulmar, as Admiral Cleemorl stepped inside the Command Center. “We’ve visited seven worlds and six of them have agreed to join the Empire.’

“That’s true, but we’re rapidly running out of satellites and missile platforms for planetary defense grids. I’ll send a request to the core worlds for additional cargo ships loaded with both to be sent to us. At the same time we might as well let the empty ones return home.”

Dylan sat in the command chair and looked at the main viewscreen, revealing two of the fleet’s cargo ships, busy emplacing missile platforms. While those were a good deterrent, a fleet was sorely needed as well. In about two or three months, battlecruisers and dreadnoughts should begin emerging from the shipyards in the core worlds, as well as from a few other heavily industrialized worlds in other regions of the growing Empire.

“Another two hours and all the platforms will be in place,” reported Captain Fulmar. “The cargo ships will leave two missile platform crews to help train the local crews, who will come from Xnea Two.”

“As soon as they’re finished, set a course for Tantula Five. They’re the most heavily populated and industrialized system in the Hagen Star Cluster.”

“Yes, Admiral,” replied Fulmar. “It will take us five hours to reach the system. Should we tell them that we’re coming?”

Dylan shook his head. “No, let’s let it be a surprise.”

Leaning back in his command chair, Dylan wondered what Cheryl was doing back on Golan Four. He knew she was setting up some meetings with Captain Bryan and several other business associates. Cheryl wanted to expand her restaurant and entertainment business across more Human worlds. They were meeting to discuss how best to do that and how to keep everything legal, or at least close to legal. Dylan had also elicited a promise from Cheryl that she would not leave Golan Four for any reason.

-

Four hours later the fleet was on its way to Tantula Five. Dylan was in his quarters, getting some rest and reading some of the reports of Confederation activity in other parts of the Empire. The comm unit on his desk sounded, and, setting down his cup of coffee, he answered it. “This is Admiral Cleemorl.”

“Admiral, we just received a distress call from Tantula Five. A Druin fleet has entered the system and is inbound toward the planet. The planet does have a defensive grid, and a small fleet of resistance ships are in the system as well.”

Dylan blinked his eyes. He had not expected to encounter any Druins in the Hagen Star Cluster. “Inform Tantula Five that we’re coming, and we’ll be there in approximately three hours. Tell them to stall the Druins, if they can. How big a fleet will we be facing?”

“Thirty battleships and 128 battlecruisers.”

“Check to see if any other resistance ships are in the local area.”

“Yes, Admiral,” replied Captain Fulmar. “We’ll contact Bratol Three and see what they say. They should know the location of all the Resistance Fleets.”

Dylan closed his eyes in thought. His fleet for inspection purposes—ten dreadnoughts and eighty battlecruisers—would be heavily outnumbered. He wondered if he could use the planet’s defensive grid to help even up the odds. “Find out from Tantula Five how powerful their defensive grid is and if their space stations and shipyard are armed.” Dylan knew three space stations were in orbit and one medium-size shipyard.

While waiting for a response, Dylan called up the system on his computer screen. Twelve planets were in the system. It had a robust mining industry and small colonies on several of the other moons and planets in the system. One of the larger moons had even been terraformed.

“Admiral, the defense grid is of moderate power. They do have eighteen missile platforms mixed in as well. The space stations are not armed and have no energy shields. However, the shipyard is heavily armed and does have a shield.”

“Well, that’s some good news at least. Let me know what you find out from Bratol Three.”

Now Dylan had to prepare two different plans. One in case additional Resistance Fleets were nearby, and a second one if his fleet and the small Resistance Fleet already there would be in this alone.

-

The Druin fleet slowly approached Tantula Five. Scans had shown hundreds of mining vessels, cargo ships, and a few passenger liners. Many of those with hyperspace drives were jumping out to other Human worlds.

“Commander, a Resistance Fleet is in the system near Tantula Five,” reported the sensor officer.

“How many and what classifications?”

“Six battlecruisers and twenty-three support ships.”

“They are not a serious threat to us,” stated the first officer.

“Also a defensive grid surrounds the planet, and the shipyard shows to be armed and is protected by an energy shield.”

The Druin commander did not like what he heard. This system was supposed to be lightly defended and an easy one to bring back under Confederation control. “Continue to approach slowly. I want thorough scans of that defensive grid. I want to know exactly what we’ll be facing.” Admiral Kreen had sent him here to secure all seven of the primary Human worlds in the Hagen Star Cluster. He still intended to do that, but he wanted to hold his losses to a minimum.

-

The captain of the resistance battlecruiser Maya was relieved to hear that an Imperial battlefleet was on its way and would arrive shortly. He just needed to survive until it reached the Tantula system.

“Pull our fleet back to the defense grid and near the shipyard. That will greatly increase the firepower we have available. We’ll stay there until the Imperial fleet arrives.”

“Captain, the planetary governor is willing to put the defense grid under our control as well as the shipyard,” reported the communications officer.

“Where is the normal command station for the grid?”

“It’s located on the shipyard.”

“Very well, we will keep control there. Have the command station activate the defensive grid. Also recommend that all three space stations evacuate immediately.”

“At least the Druins are coming in slow,” commented the first officer. “That gives us time.”

The captain shook his head. “Another week and we would have had the defense grid finished.”

“It’s still pretty powerful,” replied the first officer.

“Let’s just hope it’s powerful enough.”

-

The six battlecruisers and twenty-three support ships of the resistance moved back and into the defensive grid in the general vicinity of the shipyard. Onboard the shipyard, the crew raced to their battlestations as the energy screen snapped into place. Energy turrets swiveled to face the incoming Druin fleet. Missile hatches slid open, and targeting systems became active. The commander of the shipyard was determined to do everything he could to protect his world as well as his command.

-

The Druin commander had his fleet halt. “We’ll initiate long-range bombardment from here.”

“The three space stations have been evacuated,” the first officer informed the commander. “Should we destroy them?”

“Not yet, they might be useful, once we take control of the planet.”

“What about the shipyard?”

“We may have to destroy it, if they refuse to surrender.”

“We are being ordered out of the system,” reported the communications officer.

The Druin commander shifted in his command chair, creaking from his massive weight. “Do not reply. Our missiles will be our answer.”

From the Druin battleships and battlecruisers, missiles roared into space, heading toward the planet and the defensive grid, which protected it.

-

Admiral Cleemorl had just received some good news. Another Resistance Fleet was on its way, consisting of twelve battlecruisers and forty support ships. It had been traveling to Lamora Seven, when they received the distress call and had been diverted by Fleet Admiral Marloo, who was now in charge of all Imperial ships including the Resistance Fleets.

“We’ll rendezvous with the Resistance Fleet in twenty minutes,” reported Captain Fulmar. “We’re receiving reports that the attack on Tantula Five has only just begun. At the moment the Druins are using long-range missile bombardment in an attempt to weaken the defensive grid.”

“We may just reach them in time,” said Dylan. “There’s a good chance the Druins don’t know we’re coming or about the second Resistance Fleet.”

“We can hope,” replied Captain Fulmar.

-

Admiral Cleemorl’s fleet and the additional Resistance Fleet reached the rendezvous coordinates and formed up into one fleet. Admiral Cleemorl, since he was the senior officer, took command of both fleets.

“We’re forty minutes out,” reported Captain Fulmar, as the fleets got underway again. “The Druins are still hitting the defensive grid. So far the Resistance Fleet and the shipyard are untouched.”

“Let’s just hope it stays that way,” replied Dylan. “They’ll need a little bit of luck to drive the Druins away from Tantula Five.”

-

The bombardment of the defensive grid around Tantula Five was going well. Already nearly 30 percent of the grid had been annihilated. Bright meteor-like debris could be seen shooting through the atmosphere, falling toward the planet.

“We’ve intercepted some hyperlight communications between the Resistance Fleet and an Imperial fleet,” reported the Druin communications officer. “The Imperial fleet is on its way here, though we have no time line for its arrival.”

The Druin commandeer stood and approached the tactical display. “We dare not allow it to arrive before we have finished subduing the planet. All ships are to advance immediately and to engage the shipyard and the Resistance Fleet guarding it. They must be destroyed before the Imperials arrive.” The commander had hoped to keep his losses to a minimum, as he had six more star systems to bring back under Confederation control. Now that was in doubt.

-

As the Themis dropped out of hyperspace in close proximity to Tantula Five, space was already full of explosions as the cornered Resistance Fleet and the shipyard struggled to survive against the intense attack of the Druins.

“All ships are at Condition One,” reported Captain Fulmar.

“Missiles first and then fusion energy beams,” ordered Dylan. “Take us in close. This will be ship to ship. I want to keep them penned between the Resistance Fleet, the shipyard, and us.”

“The defensive grid is still partially active,” added Captain Fulmar. “That should help.” On the viewscreens, he saw the missile platforms launching nonstop at the incoming Druin warships.

-

The combined Imperial and Resistance Fleets headed directly toward the Druins, missiles launching and energy beams firing. Massive explosions of pure energy rocked the energy shields of the Druin ships. Several collapsed, allowing antimatter missiles to turn the ships into shattered glowing wrecks.

Part of the Druin fleet hastily turned to face the incoming warships. Now both the front and rear of the Druin fleet were under heavy attack.

The Druin commander spent a moment analyzing the current tactical situation. He still had an advantage in firepower, but this battle would cost him a considerable portion of his fleet. Not only that but part of the defensive grid protecting the planet was still intact. Even if he won the battle, he would not have sufficient warships left to conquer this planet and the other six inhabited star systems in the cluster.

The Druin commander felt his flagship shake violently as several antimatter missiles detonated against its energy shield. On a viewscreen, a Druin battleship was being torn apart by fusion energy beams from the Imperial ships.

On another screen, an Imperial battlecruiser had lost its energy shield, and Druin energy beams were riddling the ship, turning it into a powerless and lifeless hulk.

“What are your orders, Commander?” asked the ship’s first officer.

“We stay and fight for now. While this engagement may prevent us from accomplishing our mission, we can reduce this Imperial Fleet and these Resistance Fleets to the point where they will be powerless to prevent one of our other fleets from taking control of all seven of the Human-inhabited systems in this star cluster. Target the space stations and destroy them.”

“Only one is currently in range.”

“Destroy it. We’ll destroy the others as the opportunity arises.”

-

Over the next few minutes the battle greatly intensified. The remaining defense grid and the heavily armed shipyard allowed the resistance and Imperial forces to hold their own against the Druins. Ships on both sides were dying in bright novalike explosions of released energy.

On the surface of the planet, the battle was plainly visible. Numerous flashes of bright light designated the explosions of fusion and antimatter missiles in space. The people on the planet knew their future was being decided in orbit.

-

Admiral Cleemorl felt the Themis shake violently as several missiles detonated against its powerful energy shield. Glancing at the damage control console, he saw several lights turn yellow.

“Minor damage to the hull in sections fourteen and twenty,” reported the damage control officer. “No hull ruptures. As a precaution the compartments immediately below and adjacent to the damage are being evacuated.”

Dylan nodded. The battle still grew in intensity. At the moment there was no way to tell who might win.

“We just lost the Durham and Vixen,” reported Captain Fulmar. The Durham and Vixen were both battlecruisers.

On the main viewscreen, a Druin battleship was under heavy fire with its energy screen glowing brighter and brighter. Suddenly the screen failed, and the ship blew apart, sending glowing debris in all directions.

“Druins are attacking one of the space stations,” reported Lieutenant Casella. “It’s unarmed with no protective energy screen.”

The station suddenly appeared on the main viewscreen. Fusion energy beam fire was tearing it apart. Section after section was riddled, turning the station into a useless piece of space rubble.

-

The Druin commander nodded to himself in satisfaction. He had eliminated one of the planet’s space stations, nearly destroyed the defense grid, and annihilated a large number of resistance and Imperial warships. “Our mission here is complete. We shall withdraw and report our engagement to Admiral Kreen. He can send another fleet to finish the pacifying of these worlds.”

A few moments later the Druin fleet entered hyperspace, and the battle died down and came to a sudden end.

-

“They’re leaving,” said Captain Fulmar, surprise on his face. “Why?”

“This battle would be a stalemate,” replied Dylan, leaning back in his command chair. “No doubt they plan on summoning a larger fleet to finish us off and to subdue all seven systems in this cluster.”

Frowning, Captain Fulmar looked at the admiral. “What will we do?”

“Call in our cargo ships. We can replace the defensive grid around Tantula Five, as well as arm and put energy screens on those two remaining space stations. We don’t have any ships we can summon, so we must make do with what we have.”

Captain Fulmar checked the inventories of defensive grid parts still on the cargo ships. “We can put one hell of a defensive grid around Tantula Five.”

Dylan nodded. “That’s the idea. With a powerful defensive grid and some warships, we can hold this system. I’ll requisition more defensive grid parts from the core worlds to put around the other six inhabited planets in the cluster. I also want to keep a combined Resistance and Imperial Fleet here to ensure all seven of these star systems stay under our control.”

“What about ODPs?” asked Fulmar. “They could make a huge difference.”

“I’ll ask for them,” replied Dylan. “At the very least, I want to put six around Tantula Five. We can use Tantula as our primary base in this section of space. Their shipyard is capable of doing repairs, and they have a massive industrial base on the planet. It shouldn’t take us long to get them building attack interceptors and their first PDCs. In a few months we can make Tantula Five as heavily defended as one of the core worlds.”

“An ambitious plan,” replied Captain Fulmar, as Lieutenant Bedell handed him a report on the fleet losses. “We lost four dreadnoughts and thirty-seven battlecruisers. Other ships were damaged, and we may put them into the shipyard for repairs. The Resistance Fleets lost eight battlecruisers and forty-two support ships.”

Dylan let out a deep sigh. He tried not to think about the loss of lives. This war would take a heavy toll on the men and women fighting. “How many Druin ships did we manage to take out?”

“Fourteen of their battleships and seventy-two of their battlecruisers.”

“A pretty even exchange,” replied Dylan, drawing in a deep breath. “The only problem is, at the present time, we can’t afford to trade them ship for ship. Not with the resources the Confederation has. We must get by for the next few months until more warships come out of the shipyards in the core worlds.”

“That may be a big if,” said Fulmar. “If we don’t meet the Confederation in combat, they’ll take over a lot of Human worlds.”

Dylan nodded. “We must hold what we can. I’m afraid this will be a long war.”

Chapter Eleven

Andrew was in a state of shock as he was flown from the shipyard in space he had been working on to the Imperial Palace on Golan Four. He had just received a message from his mother, telling him who his ancestors were. As soon as he finished speaking to his mother, a colonel came to escort Andrew to the Imperial Palace. Andrew was still adjusting to being third in line for the throne, since his mother had abdicated her position to him. Everything was happening so fast!

“So, should I call you Your Royal Highness,” teased Brenda, a wide grin on her face. Ensign Brenda Allert had asked if she could accompany Andrew, since she knew both of the Princesses very well.

“I’ll have you thrown in the dungeon if I ever hear you call me that,” growled Andrew. “I wonder if there are dungeons under the Palace?”

Brenda laughed. “I doubt it. We’re way past that point. Have you spoken to Kala?”

“Briefly,” replied Andrew. “I don’t know what she thinks of all this. They’re arranging to bring her to Golan Four as soon as possible. She should leave in the next few days.”

“On a dreadnought?” Brenda knew Kala did not enjoy being on warships.

Andrew shook his head. “No, a ritzy passenger liner. Some other people will be coming as well. It will have a military escort, though a lot of ships can’t be spared at the moment.”

“So, does this mean I get to come to a Royal Ball, since I know all the Royals?”

Andrew grinned. “Someone has to teach me how to dance. I’m not very good at it.”

A wide smile split Brenda’s face. “I can do that. I’m a good dancer! I even took classes when I was in school.” Brenda could already see herself dressed in a wonderful gown and dancing at a Royal Ball.

“Somehow that doesn’t surprise me,” replied Andrew.

With a wicked grin, Brenda handed Andrew a laptop. “That contains the duties of the position you’re about to find yourself in. It also explains how a Royal, such as yourself, is supposed to act and to dress while in public.”

“That’s just great,” muttered Andrew, shaking his head. “Are you telling me that I don’t even get to pick out my own clothes anymore?”

“Within reason,” answered Brenda. “High Princess Layla and Princess Krista have suggested I become one of their attendants on several occasions. How would you feel if I become yours instead?”

“I do get some privacy, don’t I?”

Brenda nodded and grinned. “Some, but you will find it very limited at times. Keep in mind that, including you, only three Royals are currently alive who have a direct claim on the throne. You will be called Prince Wilcox or Prince Andrew, depending on the situation.”

-

Andrew leaned back and closed his eyes. He realized his life had just gotten very complicated. “I’ll definitely need you as an attendant or something. I’m not prepared for this.” He trusted Brenda to look out for him. He realized, in the coming months, he would be heavily dependent on her.

A happy look crossed Brenda’s face. “That means I get to move into the Palace!”

Andrew let out a deep sigh. “Oh, God, what have I done?”

Brenda elbowed him in the side and started explaining to Andrew why she would need a new wardrobe.

-

Kala was inside her Pallas home, packing. She had really enjoyed her life here, but, by going to Golan Four with the new responsibilities that Andrew would have, it would mean they would be together most of the time. This was something she really wanted. Besides, Cheryl was there, and Kala had become good friends with Cheryl. Ensign Brenda Allert would be there as well, who Kala had become close with too.

She had gone to see her father, in an attempt to get him to come as well, but he was into a dig in Egypt that he swore would change Human history even more than it already had in recent years. He wouldn’t tell her what he was working on, but that was his way. He was always very secretive, until he was ready to announce his discoveries.

A knock came at her front door. Surprised, she went to see who it was. It was several hours yet before they would come for her luggage and other personal affects. Opening the door, she found Brett Newcomb standing there, with a smile on his face.

“Ready to go to the Imperial Palace?”

“Will I live in the Palace?” asked Kala, as she motioned for Brett to come in. So much of this she didn’t know and hadn’t thought through.

“Most of the time, though you could have a summer home out in the country, if you want some privacy.”

“I don’t know what I want,” confessed Kala, sitting on the sofa. “I’m still overwhelmed by all of this.”

Brett looked at all the luggage and boxes Kala had piled up in the living room. “You do realize that, with Andrew being a Royal, you will have a very large clothing allowance.”

Kala flushed slightly. “I wondered about that. I just don’t know so much. I’m probably over packing.”

Brett smiled. “Just take what you feel comfortable with. Keep in mind it’s over three weeks from Golan Four to Earth, so you probably won’t come back very often.”

Kala let out a deep sigh. “I’ll miss my father.”

“Remember that you can call him anytime. Hyperlight communication is almost instantaneous. The delay between here and the Empire is only a few minutes.”

“I’m hoping I can talk him into coming to Golan Four someday. I understand the Imperial Library is still intact and is full of historical information about the Empire. That might be enough to lure him away from digging in the dirt.”

“I’ll speak to him. The dig he’s on now is pretty important.”

Kala’s eyes widened. “I don’t understand.” Did Brett know what her father was working on?

“The Earth Imperials are financing it. We’re trying to figure out how Humans could evolve on both Golan Four and here on Earth. A link must be somewhere, and we’re hoping the dig your father is currently in charge of will tell us just that.”

“I never thought about that. I guess it would be highly unlikely for two identical species to evolve on separate planets so far away.”

“Not just highly unlikely but nearly impossible. Some time in the past, the same genetic material from Golan Four and Earth had to be shared. We’re hoping your father’s current efforts will answer that.”

“I’m sure he’s well qualified for that expedition. In the meantime, they will come for me in another few hours. I still have a few last-minute things to pack.” Kala wanted to make sure she was ready. She stood, wondering where to start next.

Brett laughed. “Take your time. The passenger ship will not leave without you.”

“Will there be an escort?” Kala was worried about traveling in an unarmed ship. She had heard about what had happened to Cheryl.

Brett nodded. “One dreadnaught and two battlecruisers will serve as an escort. Not only that but this particular passenger liner has a defensive energy shield as well as hull armor. You should be quite safe.”

Kala paused and looked around her home. “I really enjoyed living here. I hope I feel the same about the Palace.”

“I better go,” said Brett. “I just wanted to stop by to check on you. Tell Andrew I said hello, when you see him.”

“I will,” promised Kala. She watched as Brett left and got back into the vehicle that had brought him.

Turning, she returned to her packing. Even though she was taking a lot, she was leaving behind many things. All those would be put into storage, in case she ever decided she wanted some of it or in case she ever returned to Pallas.

-

Four hours later Kala stepped onboard the Emerald Princess, one of the most modern passenger liners currently in service. She was escorted to her suite of rooms and was amazed at the sheer luxury that she found herself in. Everything was top-of-the-line and far different from what she was used to.

“If you need anything, two attendants have been assigned to you during this voyage,” explained the young officer, bringing her luggage into the suite of rooms. “They are available twenty-four hours a day, so don’t hesitate to call them. I would also suggest you have one of them accompany you when you’re away from your rooms. You will find them quite useful. The captain has asked that you join him, some of his officers, and a few other guests at the captain’s table for the evening meal.”

“I would be delighted to,” replied Kala. She wasn’t sure if she was supposed to tip the young officer of not. She paused, confused.

The officer smiled, recognizing her dilemma. “The Imperial Palace is paying for your trip to Golan Four, as well as all meals and anything else you may want. Tips have already been taken care of. So enjoy yourself, and don’t hesitate to call me if you need anything.” With that, he handed her a card with his name and a number to use, should she wish to contact him.

-

Two young female attendants made an appearance and helped Kala unpack. She had over three weeks to spend onboard the ship and was curious to see what it contained and who else was onboard. “Let’s go explore the ship,” she suggested after a while. “I’ve never been on a passenger ship the size of this one.”

“I’ll stay and finish unpacking,” volunteered one of the girls. “Shari will be glad to take you on a tour of the ship.”

Moments later Kala and Shari headed down a wide carpeted corridor.

“Have you ever been on a passenger liner like this before?” asked Shari.

Kala shook her head. “No, it’s definitely a lot nicer than anything I’ve ever traveled on.

Shari laughed. “Just remember. Anything you want, we’ll see that you get it. You’re now a very important person. Don’t be afraid to act like it.”

“That’ll take some getting used to.”

“Don’t worry. I’m sure you will figure it out.”

-

An hour later they were in a viewing lounge, sitting in comfortable chairs, as the Emerald Princess made its transition into hyperspace. Kala drew in a sharp breath as she felt the slight wrenching sensation, signaling the ship had left normal space. She was on her way to Andrew and a new life. Kala wondered what was ahead of her. Whatever it was, she would have Andrew at her side, and she was confident he would help guide her through it.

-

Andrew was ushered into the Palace. Everything was happening so fast that he scarcely knew what to think of all this. Eventually he found himself in the personal quarters of one of the Princesses. He wasn’t sure which one, but he suspected it had to be High Princess Layla’s suite, since Krista had not yet returned from her tour across the core worlds.

“Andrew, it’s so exciting to find out that you’re a Royal!”

Andrew turned to find a smiling Princess Layla standing in front of him. He bowed slightly and spoke. “High Princess Layla, I don’t really know what to say about all of this.”

Layla laughed. “When we’re by ourselves, no need to bow, and just call me Layla. After all, we are distant cousins. We’re in Krista’s quarters, as I haven’t had mine furnished yet.”

“Thank you for taking the time to meet with me personally. I must say, I have no idea what I’m supposed to be doing.”

“Not a problem,” replied Layla. “I’ll have several attendants assigned to you, and they can immediately brief you on the duties of a Royal.”

“Just what are my duties?” asked Andrew. He didn’t know of any job he could do that would be useful.

“I understand you do a lot of research, particularly in the field of communications.”

Andrew nodded. “Yes, I helped develop the hyperlight receiver and transmitter that was on the Endeavor.”

Layla nodded. “Yes, I heard about the tragedy of the Endeavor. It was very frightening. I’m just relieved you and Kala survived. If you want, you can remain in research and even supervise much of the research we will be doing on any future advancements. At the very least you would be aware of what’s being developed and could keep Krista and myself informed.”

Andrew thought about the suggestion for a few moments. “That sounds like something I might enjoy doing.”

Smiling, Layla nodded. “You have time. No need to rush into anything. Kala will be here in a few weeks. Why don’t you wait until she arrives, and you can discuss it with her?”

“That sounds fine,” replied Andrew. His mind still reeling from everything that had happened in the last forty-eight hours.

“I’ve taken the liberty of setting aside for you and Kala a suite of rooms in the section of the Palace reserved for the Imperial Family. I would suggest you wait to decorate until Kala arrives.”

Andrew started laughing. “Yes, I suspect my tastes and Kala’s will be quite different.”

“In the meantime, you can stay on the Starburst in one of several extra suites of rooms for our guests, and I suspect one of them will be to your liking. I’ll send those attendants to brief you on your Royal duties.”

“Thank you,” replied Andrew. “I don’t want to mess up and embarrass you or Princess Krista.”

Layla smiled. “Krista has embarrassed me enough that I’m used to it. I think, once you get settled in, you’ll enjoy being a Royal. It has its perks, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility. I do have some meetings set up with some of the planetary governors and some military officials over the next few days. You may want to sit in on those and see how I go about handling them. We are reestablishing the Constitutional Monarchy. You may also want to study some of the history of our ancestors, particularly about my father. It will give you a better idea of what we hope to accomplish.”

“Ensign Brenda Allert would like to serve as one of my attendants.”

“That’s wonderful,” said Layla, smiling. “She will do an excellent job. I’ll have one of the senior attendants assigned to her to help answer any of her questions and to show her all the ins and outs of being an attendant. Did she come with you?”

Andrew nodded. “Yes, she’s getting all our luggage and will be here shortly.”

“I’ll have someone locate her and redirect her to the Starburst. I’m glad to hear that Brenda will be joining us.”

“That’s all she’s been able to talk about,” replied Andrew. “I think she’s fascinated with life in the Imperial Palace.”

“Many people are,” answered Layla. “I’ll also put together some information for both of you as to your Royal duties and what will be expected.”

“I won’t let you down,” promised Andrew.

Layla nodded. “I know you won’t.”

-

Fleet Admiral Marloo went over the latest reports from Admiral Cleemorl. The admiral had driven the Druins away from Tantula Five and was putting up a very powerful defensive grid around the planet.

“This is our opportunity to secure seven more worlds for the Empire.”

“We should arrange to send more cargo ships with defensive grid components immediately,” said General Gantts.

“ODPs as well,” added Marloo. “They’re almost as good as assigning a fleet.”

“Can we afford to send Orbital Defense Platforms?” asked General Gantts. She knew every system in the core was rushing to build as many ODPs as possible.

“I don’t think we have any choice. The two Resistance Fleets suffered considerable losses. I’ve already diverted another Resistance Fleet to Lamora Seven. I’ll keep the two Resistance Fleets in the Tantula system and join them into one fleet. I’ll also have Admiral Cleemorl assign two dreadnoughts and ten of his battlecruisers to the Resistance Fleet as well.”

General Gantts frowned. “We’re spreading ourselves pretty thin.”

“It’s a risk we’ll have to take if we want to prevent as many worlds as possible from falling back under Confederation control. Do you have any other suggestions?”

“We’ll be turning out a considerable number of attack interceptors shortly. They could be highly useful defending some of the more distant planets in the Empire.”

Fleet Admiral Marloo thought about it and nodded his head. “Let’s send the Orion along with the cargo ships. Make sure she has a full load of attack interceptors and extra crews for the interceptors. We’ll ask the Tantula governor to make available 1,500 military personnel for interceptor training. That’s what I want the Orion to concentrate on. I want as many crews trained as possible. Over the next three months I want to get all seven of those worlds as heavily fortified as possible. Those worlds stand squarely between us and the Confederation, and I want them held at all costs.”

Marloo turned his attention to the massive hologram that showed all the Human worlds in the Empire. A nice grouping of green icons was in the center, surrounded by yellow with a few greens intermixed. Beyond that were a large number of red icons, growing far faster than the green ones. The Humans were in a race against time to bring as many worlds back into the Empire as possible. At some point they would come into major conflict with the Confederation once again.

In recent days minor flare-ups had been reported when Imperial or Resistance Fleets ran across Confederation forces trying to reclaim Human planets. The battle Admiral Cleemorl had fought had been the biggest one in weeks. Marloo just hoped there would be few of those over the next few months.

If there were more, they ran the risk of running out of the necessary warships to keep control of the worlds they were bringing back into the Empire. The good news was that, in a few more months, the core worlds would start turning out large numbers of warships, as well as a few other highly industrialized worlds in different sections of the Empire.

“Any more reports on the Confederation fleet heading toward Earth?” General Gantts asked.

Marloo shook his head. “No, we tried to trace it but have had no luck. We’ve intercepted some communication from the Morag Fleet to the Confederation, but it’s being held to a minimum and is highly encrypted.”

Marloo allowed his gaze to wander over the hundreds of viewscreens in the huge underground Command Center. Most showed views in the Golan Four system. Others showed views of various core worlds. Everything was tightly monitored. Defenses had increased, and all the systems were heavily patrolled. No Confederation ship would be allowed anywhere near one of the sixteen primary systems. In addition, patrols were scheduled in most of the uninhabited systems around the core worlds as well. “How is the training of our Marines going?”

“We’re way ahead of where I expected to be,” replied General Gantts. “Fortunately most of the resistance bases had trained Marines. We’re using them to train even more military personnel. All the core worlds should have over one hundred thousand military on each planet and fully trained in two more months. After six months we will be way over one million on each world. Many of them are deploying around the Planetary Defense Centers.”

“What about our attack interceptor training?”

“The new base is nearly ready. The simulators have been delivered and distributed as promised, and Major Barkley has already started training the first class. They’re sleeping in tents for now, but we expect to have the entire base finished within a couple more weeks.”

Fleet Admiral Marloo leaned back in his command chair and took a deep breath. “How long will it take to train a crew?”

“That’s the surprising part. Major Barkley plans on doing simulator training for the first four weeks and then hands-on experience in a training interceptor. The simulators are so advanced that he feels they will markedly reduce the training time. He feels confident his first class will be ready for deployment in three months.”

“How large is the first class?” Marloo knew he should have kept better track, but so much had been going on.

General Gantts smiled. “Seventeen hundred pilots and an equal number of navigation and tactical personnel. Major Barkley is also setting up one of the battlecarriers in orbit to act as a training station. That’s where the crews will go as soon as their training at the base is finished. From the carrier they will be sent out on long-range patrols and other training missions. That will help to give the crews some real-life training before they actually go into combat.”

“Let’s hope that’s enough.” Marloo’s gaze returned to the main screen, which displayed the largest of the shipyards around Golan Four. Plans were already in the works to build two more equally as large. Construction robots were being programmed, and the first beams would be put into orbit in another week.

-

Ensign Brenda Allert was ecstatic. This was better than her wildest dreams. Not only would she be an attendant for Prince Andrew but she would live on the Starburst and eventually in the Palace. She giggled to herself, thinking about Andrew. The poor man was still in a state of shock. She could hardly wait to see the Princesses and to find out exactly what her new job duties would be. She also hoped Kala didn’t mind her being around. So far she and Kala had managed to stay cordial and to even develop a friendship.

Brenda was also excited about going shopping and buying new clothes. She wondered if she would wear some standard uniform, designating her as an attendant. Whatever, it didn’t matter to her, just as long as she was in the Palace and around the Royals.

For Brenda, this was a dream come true. Since she was a child here on Golan Four, she had dreamed about being a princess and living in the Palace. While she would never be a Royal Princess, she had made it into the Palace. She knew her parents would be very proud of her.

Chapter Twelve

A few days later Admiral Cleemorl was relieved to see twelve more cargo ships along with the Battlecarrier Orion being escorting by four battlecruisers as they all dropped out of hyperspace near Tantula Five.

“I guess we’ll be doing some training,” said Captain Anderson, aboard the Orion, as he contacted Admiral Cleemorl. “I’ve got double the normal complement of interceptors. As soon as I can, I must get some of them down to the planet, so I can clear some deck space.”

“That can easily be arranged,” replied Dylan. “How many ODPs are on the cargo ships?” Dylan wanted Tantula Five to be as strongly defended as possible, as he had plans for this system. Plans that would make the core worlds much safer.

“We have six on four transports,” replied Captain Anderson. “The other eight ships are full of defensive satellites and the parts for forty missile platforms.”

Dylan thought for a moment. “I want all six ODPs put into orbit around Tantula Five, plus half of the defensive satellites and twenty of the missile platforms. We’ve already rebuilt most of their defensive grid from the parts we had in our cargo ships. We’ll turn Tantula Five into a major Imperial base for this region of the Empire.”

“That will make for one hell of a defensive grid,” said Captain Anderson. “Only the core worlds will have stronger. We’ll need a place to put a base. From what I’ve seen, the planet is heavily populated. Is there a sparse-enough region for us to put in a large Imperial base, along with the necessary defenses?”

“Planet seven has a large inhabited moon that has been terraformed. Nearly four hundred million people live there. It also has a small shipyard and a large space station. I’ll propose to the Imperial Council that we greatly expand the shipyard and fortify the moon. A large dry area is at the north pole of the moon, where it’s sparsely inhabited, and that would make a great location for a base.”

“What’s the name of this moon?”

“Gideon.”

“Strange name for a moon.”

“I’ll also suggest that we keep all the ships currently here with me until the base is completed. Governor Ansell Dyson of Tantula Five has agreed to most of my proposal. While that’s being done, I’ll speak to the planetary governors of the other systems.”

“You need a lot more defensive grid components, as well as ODPs, to do all you want done. Those other systems will need to be heavily fortified as well.”

“Yeah, somehow I must bribe the council with something. I want at least two ODPs for each world as well as four for Gideon.”

“Between Gideon and Tantula Five they have a massive industrial base. How much of what you’re proposing could they do?”

“That’s a good question. I have a meeting with both governors on the Themis tomorrow afternoon. Want to attend?”

“I’ll be there,” promised Captain Anderson.

“One more thing,” added Dylan, as he gazed at the Orion on the viewscreen. “Have a couple attack interceptors brought over to the Themis. I would like to show them to the two governors.”

“I’ll send them over. Do you want me to arrange for a flyby of a full squadron of interceptors?”

Dylan thought for a moment. He really wanted to impress these two governors. “Yes, that’s a great idea. Go ahead and arrange it, and we’ll do it sometime during our meeting.”

-

Fleet Admiral Horrabe had finalized his attack plan on the Human star system of Earth. In front of him was a large hologram, depicting the entire Human system. “We will destroy their defenses from the outside in. We will start with the former Druin interdiction stations, which the Humans have turned into battlestations and an advanced detection system. There are eight of them, and we will divide the fleet into eight subfleets of one thousand ships each. We will attack all eight simultaneously, which will prevent the Human warfleets from protecting them.”

“And after we have eliminated the battlestations?” asked High Commander Corr. “What next?”

“A two-pronged attack upon the colonies around the two large gas giants in the system. We’ll divide the fleet into two sections of four thousand ships each. We will cleanse all life off the moons of the gas giant planets, leaving them lifeless.”

“A sound plan,” commented Corr, nodding his approval. “I assume after that we will attack the inner worlds?”

Horrabe turned to face Corr. “It will depend on what our probes tell us. We must know the size of the Human fleets in the system and the strength of their defensive grids. We must not rush into battle unprepared, as the admirals leading the two previous attacks did.”

Corr nodded. Horrabe was the greatest of the Morag admirals and was very powerful in his ability to use telepathy. The defeat of the Humans in the Earth system would be a great victory for the admiral. “I have more battle and damage control drills scheduled for later today.”

“Excellent,” replied Horrabe, as he shifted his massive weight in his command chair, causing it to protest. “We must continue to stress to the fleet that these Humans are not to be taken lightly.”

Corr nodded. He knew how important this coming battle was to the Confederation and particularly the Morag. To the Morag, the Humans were extremely dangerous, due to their immunity to telepathic manipulation.

-

In the Confederation, the Great Council was once more in session.

“We should move more rapidly against the Human worlds,” shrieked Councilor Cryler of the Zang. His wings on his back were partially open.

“We are moving at a calculated pace,” replied Ardon Reull of the Lormallians. “We will soon have control of over 70 percent of the Human worlds.”

“We should not launch a major attack until Fleet Admiral Horrabe returns,” said Klug of the Morphenes.

“I agree,” said Ralor Conn of the Zynth. “Every day we gain control of more Human worlds. We must inform our admirals in the Human Empire to avoid any major engagements until the Morag fleet admiral returns.”

Morag Councilor Damora smiled to himself. It was so easy to use his telepathy to bend the weak minds of the other councilors. Their thoughts were his, and they were too foolish to realize they were uttering his desires, not theirs.

“We shall continue our logical approach to reconquer the Human Empire,” said Councilor Ardon Reull. “When Fleet Admiral Horrabe returns, we will then launch a full-scale assault on all the remaining Human worlds.”

Everyone voiced their approval, and the meeting moved on to other items. Once more the Morag had guided the council in the direction they wanted.

-

Dylan waited patiently for the two governors to arrive. Already Captain Anderson had brought over two attack interceptors to be inspected by the governors.

The shuttle containing the two leaders entered the landing bay, and soon both governors stood before Dylan.

“Welcome to the Imperial dreadnought Themis,” said Dylan. “She’s the flagship of First Fleet. This is Captain Anderson of the Orion, who will take part in our meeting today.”

Tantula Governor Dyson nodded.

“Impressive,” said Governor Anna Bloom of Gideon, as she looked around. “I understand you have fought in a number of battles against the Confederation?”

Dylan nodded. “Yes, I have. We’ve done our part in driving the Confederation away from Imperial planets, and we will continue to do so.”

“I watched the battle over Tantula Five. Why did the Druins retreat? They had enough firepower to annihilate your fleet, as well as the resistance forces.”

“They would have lost too many ships in the battle to complete their mission to subjugate the Tantula system, as well as the other systems in the Hagen Star Cluster. When the Druin commander realized that, he had his forces withdraw.”

“Will they return?”

“Eventually they will. It could be tomorrow or weeks from now. But, at some point, they will definitely return and attempt to take control of this cluster for the Confederation. It’s too big of a threat to them if they don’t.”

Governor Bloom folded her arms across her chest. “What can you do to protect us? I don’t want to see my world bombed from orbit, and I don’t want to fall back under the rule of the Confederation.”

“Before I answer that, let me show you something.” With that, he led the governors and Captain Anderson to the two awaiting attack interceptors. “These are what we have based on Captain Anderson’s battlecarrier, the Orion. Each is capable of three-day patrols and is equipped with fusion energy weapons and a forward-facing energy shield. Each interceptor can be armed with four low-yield fusion missiles. The ships do not have hyperdrives but have a very efficient subspace drive, which will allow them to patrol nearly every part of this system. Captain Anderson has arranged for a squadron to fly past the Themis shortly to demonstrate their abilities.”

“Can these destroy a Confederation warship?” asked Governor Dyson as he examined one of the interceptors in detail.

“We normally use them to take out damaged ships,” answered Captain Anderson. “In a mass attack, they could, indeed, take out a fully operational Confederation warship, but the losses would be high.”

“They work best when they are with a fleet of attacking ships,” added Dylan. “We’ve used them several times to great effect.”

“What size is the crew?” asked Governor Bloom.

“Three,” answered Captain Anderson. “A pilot, navigator, and weapons officer.”

Governor Bloom turned to face Admiral Cleemorl and Captain Anderson. “How difficult are these to build, and how long does it take to train crews?”

“We can have the production lines set up within three weeks, and it will take about three months to train the crews,” answered Dylan. “If you’re interested, Captain Anderson and the Orion will be glad to train your crews, while the production facilities are being built.”

Governor Bloom looked at Governor Dyson with excitement in her eyes. “We could build hundreds of these, maybe thousands.”

“We have thousands based on Earth,” said Dylan. “They play a very important part in the planet’s defense. Let’s go to the Command Center, and we’ll observe the flyby and then go to a conference room to discuss our future plans.”

-

The four went up to the Command Center and watched the flyby, as well as some attack scenarios the squadron executed while buzzing around the Imperial ships. Afterward they went to the main conference room and spent nearly three hours discussing and arguing about what must be done to defend the Tantula system as well as the other inhabited star systems in the Hagen Star Cluster.

“Then we’re in agreement,” said Admiral Cleemorl. “We’ll make Gideon the primary Imperial base in this sector of space, and both Gideon and Tantula Five will join the House of Worlds. In return we’ll see to it that both Gideon and Tantula Five have extremely powerful defensive grids, PDCs, ODPs, attack interceptors, and sufficient Imperial fleet units to protect the system from the Confederation. In addition, Tantula Five and Gideon will help to build and to strengthen the defensive grids around the other six major Human-inhabited worlds in the Hagen Star Cluster.”

“We’ll be placing ourselves on the front lines,” said Governor Bloom, frowning.

“Yes, but you are already a target as the first line of defense into the core worlds. Now you will have the ability to fight back against the Confederation. For the time being, Resistance Fleets are here, and my fleet will remain. As soon as our meeting is over, I’ll contact the Imperial Council and arrange for more convoys of war materials.”

“Will they agree?” asked Governor Bloom. She knew she was putting her colony in grave danger by agreeing to this, but she did not want to see the Confederation take over her world. She shuddered, thinking about all the young people they had sent to their deaths. For that reason alone she was willing to do what Admiral Cleemorl suggested.

Dylan smiled. “Yes, I’m sure they will. Not only will we bring seven more worlds into the Empire, we will be drawing a line in space and telling the Confederation, You may not pass.”

The Hagen Star Cluster lay in a direct line between the core worlds of the Empire and the main part of the Confederation. What Dylan wanted was to place a massive roadblock between the Confederation and the core worlds, one the Confederation would not dare to attempt to go around, lest they leave their own core worlds vulnerable to attack.

-

Layla walked through the newly completed sections of the Palace, inspecting them. Along with her was Andrew, Brenda, Fleet Admiral Marloo—who wanted to speak to her about some matters of urgency—and four Imperial Guards. They were in the upper level of one of the recently rebuilt sky towers. “It’s magnificent,” she said, smiling. “So much has been accomplished in such a short period of time.”

“The Imperial Palace is a symbol of power throughout the Empire,” said Fleet Admiral Marloo. “From what I understand, over two thousand work robots are involved in the renovation and the new construction under the guidance of several hundred construction engineers and architects.”

“They’re doing a wonderful job,” commented Andrew, as he stepped out on the balcony overlooking the capital. The sky was clear with only a few wispy white clouds. It was quiet up this high, just some imperceptible noise from the Palace construction and from the city. “I can see why you enjoyed living in the Palace.”

Layla stepped outside and stood near Andrew. “As soon as Krista returns, we shall move into the Palace. It’s time for the Palace to come back to life.”

Taking a deep breath of the fresh air, Layla turned to face Fleet Admiral Marloo. “What is it you wanted to speak to me about?”

“I just received a message from Admiral Cleemorl. He wants to heavily fortify Tantula Five and Gideon.”

“Gideon?”

“The terraformed moon in the Tantula system with a Human population of over four hundred million. Admiral Cleemorl wants to make Gideon into a forward base for the Empire. He has sent a long list of what he will need. If we agree to this, then all seven inhabited worlds of the Hagen Star Cluster will join the House of Worlds and will become a part of the Empire.”

Layla returned her gaze over the city. She saw thousands of aircars in the sky lanes. “There are other smaller Human colonies in other star systems in the cluster, aren’t there?”

“Yes. Eighteen other star systems with major mining colonies. Several of those are on terraformed moons with growing populations.”

“Can we afford to send what Admiral Cleemorl wants?”

Fleet Admiral Marloo let out a deep and long sigh. “We would be sending nearly 43 percent of all our defensive grid production and 22 percent of our ODP production for the next three weeks to accomplish what he wants. Yet he’s planning a massive project that could seriously hamper the Confederation’s advances in the future.”

“Will that affect our own defenses, if we divert so much of our war production to the Hagen Star Cluster?” asked Andrew. He had been quietly listening.

“No, the core worlds are already heavily defended,” answered Marloo. “The main thing we’re still adding here are the ODPs. Much of our current defense production is aimed at protecting many of the smaller colonies and mining operations around the core systems.”

“Talk to the Imperial Council,” said Layla after a moment. “Tell them I want to do this, as it might keep the Confederation away from the core worlds. It’s better to fight the Confederation in deep space rather than around our homeworlds. It will also give us another heavily defended area of Imperial space.”

Marloo nodded. “As you wish, High Princess. I believe it’s the right decision.” Fleet Admiral Marloo bowed slightly and then left.

“So that’s how you do this,” said Andrew, impressed.

Layla smiled. “You learn how to read people. I could tell Fleet Admiral Marloo wanted to do this. I just encouraged him slightly. He will go to the Imperial Council, and sometime tomorrow I’ll have the paperwork on my desk to sign.”

Andrew looked down. From here he could see the Royal Gardens. They had really grown and were already looking magnificent. Andrew knew that shortly Layla would allow tours of the Royal Gardens and a few of the completed sections of the Palace that dealt with the history of the Empire. Many of the art pieces from the lower levels of the Imperial Library would be on display as well. Layla had mentioned that she was anxious to get the Palace reopened. Even two of the sky towers would be open to the public, and tourists would be allowed in the top two levels to admire the views of the capital.

Looking up, Andrew saw that all the sky towers had nearly been rebuilt. Only one was still in progress, and the sky bridges linking the towers were nearly finished as well. He knew that special lighting would light up the entire Palace at night.

Andrew looked out over the city. Millions of people lived in the capital. He knew that Layla was already working on returning Golan Four to the same state it had been in before the fall. Large nature preserves were being reestablished, and huge blocks of land used for agriculture were being returned to their former state. A few complaints had come from the landowners, but Layla had seen to it that they were well compensated.

“Brenda, what do you think of all this?” asked Layla, smiling.

“It’s breathtaking,” replied Brenda, her eyes open very wide. “I’ve never been in one of the sky towers before. They’re magnificent.”

“Are you ready to assume your duties as one of Andrew’s attendants?”

Brenda nodded. “Yes, I’ve always dreamed of living in the Palace.”

Layla laughed. “I’m glad you feel that way. I’ll have Emira meet with you. She knows everything about being an attendant and will get you started.”

“Thank you,” replied Brenda. “I won’t let you or Andrew down.”

“I know you won’t. That’s why you will make a wonderful attendant.”

-

Later that afternoon, Layla was in the suite of offices which Governor Stein, now Chief Chancellor Stein, had made available to her. In another week a similar suite would be finished in the Palace and the necessary personnel assigned. Andrew was with her, as she explained some of what she was doing. She was glad that Andrew was a Royal; it would take some of the load off her shoulders, as well as Krista’s.

“My biggest concern will always be the people,” explained Layla from behind her desk. “The Imperial Council will send governing bills to me, passed by them or the House of Worlds. I’ll study them and decide if they are beneficial to the people or if they should be changed. At some point in time, I’ll have people who will study all the bills and explain to me what their exact impact will be on the people and the Empire. There will be bills I won’t like, but they will be necessary. I can’t have everything my way, or the position of the monarchy will become too powerful.”

Andrew nodded. “I think I can help you with some of this, particularly defense production and scientific developments.”

“I was hoping you could,” replied Layla with a pleased smile. “I’m having your own suite of offices designed at the Palace. You will have a place to work, with people to assist you. You must hire your own staff, as only you will know exactly what you will need. I’ll show the offices to you when we return to the Palace. Feel free to make any changes you feel are necessary.”

“I spoke to Colonel Emerson earlier,” said Andrew. “He said he expects to have the Imperial guard up to one hundred strong shortly.”

Layla nodded. “The Imperial Guards have numerous duties. Besides protecting us, they are also responsible for the security of the Palace and the Palace grounds. I believe Colonel Emerson wants nearly four hundred when all is said and done. I know he’s been doing a lot of training and recruiting.”

“What about Marines? Will any of them be assigned to the Palace?” Andrew would feel better if some heavy firepower were close by, especially if the Confederation attacked and managed to land troops.

“Yes, the Palace and its grounds cover a large area. There will be about two hundred Marines assigned as well. Their responsibility will be primarily the outer areas.”

“When will Princess Krista be back?”

“The day after tomorrow,” answered Layla, smiling. “This tour of the core worlds has been a good experience for her. She’s also very excited to get back and to see you, since I told her that you are a Royal.”

“I’m still getting used to that myself.”

“I understand Kala is on her way.”

“Yes, her ship left a few days ago. I’m sure she’s just as astonished by all this as I am.”

Layla laughed. “You will get used to it. I’ll make sure you don’t get overwhelmed by everything. I know it can be a lot to handle.”

“Where’s Derrick today?”

“At the attack interceptor training facility. He’s helping Major Barkley get everything situated. Did you know they’ve already started training interceptor pilots?”

“I heard that. Everything’s moving very rapidly.”

Layla nodded, as a more serious look took over her face. “We must, if we want to survive. This war with the Confederation is only just beginning. It could last for years.”

Andrew knew still much work was going on in orbit. Fleet Admiral Marloo wanted the defensive grid around Golan Four to be so powerful it could resist a major attack by the Confederation without depending on its defending fleet. Someday Andrew wanted his parents to visit Golan Four. He would like them to stay here, but he understood how they felt about Earth. It was their home, and they didn’t want to leave it.

In time Andrew hoped to feel the same way about Golan Four. Layla was doing everything she could to help him understand his duties as a Royal. On the far wall of Layla’s office was a large painting of the Imperial Palace from the days of her father. This was what Layla was trying to rebuild. He had already decided he would do everything in his power to make her dream come true because now that dream had become his as well.

Chapter Thirteen

Krista was finally back at the Palace and was thrilled to find out that she could move into her old rooms. Even more thrilling was speaking to Andrew about being a Royal. They stood in the Royal Court, talking about her trip.

“Prince Andrew has a nice ring to it,” said Krista, smiling. “How soon before Kala gets here, and how does she feel about living in the Palace?”

“A little more than two weeks,” replied Andrew. “She’s as uncertain about this as I am. I never expected this to happen.”

Krista grinned. “I’ll have Emira pick you out some attendants. She’s very good at what she does.” Krista had come to greatly appreciate the older woman and head attendant.

“Ensign Allert wants to be one of my attendants,” replied Andrew. “That’s all she talks about.”

“She will be good. I’ll tell Emira, and I’m sure she’ll approve of it. After all, Brenda has already been a big help to me and Layla.”

“So, what are your immediate plans?”

Krista let out a deep sigh. “I have to tell Layla, Fleet Admiral Marloo, and General Gantts everything I learned on my trip. It’s a good thing I took lots of notes.”

“I have an office here at the Palace now,” said Andrew. “I’ll be working on research and scientific advancements, particularly on items related to the war.”

“Aiden did a lot of research,” said Krista approvingly. “He helped design much of Sanctuary.”

Andrew didn’t know that. Maybe it would be a good idea for him to look up and to read about some of what Prince Aiden had done and had worked on. It might give Andrew an idea of some of the things he needed to do.

“The Confederation fleet should be nearing the outer reaches of Earth’s system in about two weeks. Do you think they will be ready?” A look of great concern was on Krista’s face.

“Don’t forget Imperials are in the Solar System, and Admiral Reynolds has had time to prepare. Even so, I’m afraid it’ll be one hell of a battle, especially if the strength of the Confederation fleet is anywhere near what’s been reported.”

Krista walked up the steps to the high-backed chairs that she and Layla sat in. She saw a third one had been added for Andrew. “I wish we knew more about the Morag. They’re the most secretive of the seven races of the Confederation.”

Krista ran her hand over the velvety softness of her chair. She turned around, looking over the nearly empty Royal Court. Several Imperial Guards watched her and Andrew and a few Palace workers, were busy wiping everything down. Krista knew that Layla shortly planned on having regular public meetings in here. “I’m going to the attack interceptor base later this afternoon to inspect it. Would you like to go?” Krista really wanted to see Mathew.

“Plan on seeing Major Barkley while you’re there?” Andrew grinned knowingly.

Krista turned red and nodded. “Yes, I haven’t seen him since I got back.”

“I’ll go,” replied Andrew, smiling. “I can act as a chaperone.”

Krista shook her head. “Now you sound like Emira and Layla.”

Andrew grinned. “I was your age not too long ago.”

“That’s what Layla says, but I’ve seen how she carries on with Derrick.”

“But they’re engaged.”

Krista sighed. “I know. I promise to be good.”

-

Admiral Reynolds examined the latest reports. The Confederation fleet was only days away. Across the Solar System, the final preparations for all-out war were being put into place. Admiral Reynolds was currently in the dreadnaught Dassault, inspecting the defenses on and around Pallas. There was no doubt in his mind that, in this attack, the asteroid would come under heavy assault.

“All the ODPs are in place,” reported Captain Everett.

On the ship’s main viewscreen, one of the massive ODPs was visible. Large fusion energy beam turrets covered the structure, as well as missile tubes. The ODP was protected by a thick skin of battle armor and a powerful energy shield. This particular Orbital Defense Platform had the firepower of four dreadnoughts. In all, twelve protected Pallas.

“Switch the viewscreen to one of the surface PDCs,” ordered Reynolds. The ODPs were the first line of defense, and it was a very powerful defense.

The viewscreen flickered and then changed to show one of the sprawling defense centers dug into the surface of Pallas. The Planetary Defense Center covered four square kilometers of the surface. Fusion energy beam turrets pointed upward toward space, and batteries of missile launchers were everywhere. The PDC was protected by a powerful energy screen and, in addition, had four hundred heavily armed Marines manning the perimeter defense stations, in case the Confederation managed to land troops. Forty of these massive PDCs protected Pallas.

“We’ve created a killing field,” commented Captain Everett. “If the Confederation comes here, we will kill them.”

“Maybe,” replied Reynolds, not quite convinced. “We have two thousand attack interceptors based inside Pallas as well. The Dassault will have twenty dreadnoughts and two hundred battlecruisers in its fleet. If the Confederation attacks Pallas, we’ll send the fleet in along with the interceptors.”

“Who will command the fleet?” asked Captain Everett.

“You will,” replied Reynolds. “Effective immediately I’m promoting you to the rank of rear admiral and giving you command of Seventh Fleet.”

Reynolds attention was drawn back to the viewscreen, as a full squadron of attack interceptors flew by. The interceptors were being used more and more to patrol the system, as all the patrol vessels had been pulled back to help beef up the defending fleets.

“What will we do about the eight battlestations?” asked Everett. “They’re bound to be a priority target for the Confederation fleet.”

“The battlecruisers that normally help defend the stations have been pulled back, as well as the attack interceptor squadrons. I’ve already given the order to evacuate all eight stations and to set their defenses on automatic. I won’t sacrifice the crews needlessly.” Reynolds knew it was useless to attempt to save the stations. They had served a useful purpose for the Humans of Earth and Pallas, and now they would face their final battle.

Captain Everett shook his head worriedly. “This battle could erupt across the entire Solar System. Then what do we do?”

Admiral Reynolds let out a deep sigh. “We have four main priorities. Protecting the Earth, Moon, Mars, and Pallas. If we have the forces, we’ll add Ganymede.”

“What about Titan?”

“It’s too far out. We just don’t have the ships to cover everything. We’re building up their defenses and digging large underground bunkers to keep the population safe. Even so, we may lose many of the people who are living on that moon. We wanted to defend Titan, but the logistics just aren’t working out.”

“Where will Admiral Leeson’s fleet be positioned?” Leeson had the largest of the fleets. He was also by far their most experienced admiral.

“Just outside of the Moon’s orbit,” replied Reynolds. “We don’t dare commit our fleets too soon in this battle. It could be disastrous if we suffered heavy losses early in the engagement or got caught too far out of position.”

The Dassault passed across Pallas and moved deeper into space. A powerful ring of defensive satellites and missile platforms orbited the asteroid. These would be the second line of defense. “There are so many satellites that it’s difficult to maneuver between them,” commented Everett.

“I know. I just hope what we’ve done will be enough.”

-

Fleet Admiral Horrabe nodded in satisfaction. They were only five days away from the Human system, and his attack plans had been distributed to the fleet. Their combined fleet would break into eight subfleets to attack all eight of the defensive stations simultaneously, then reform into two subfleets to attack Titan and Ganymede.

Thereafter they would release over one thousand probes to search and to scan the interior of the Human system. After the interdiction stations and the targeted moons were destroyed, the fleets would join back up into one united fleet and wait for the results from the probes. Once those were in, it would be time to launch the actual attack on the inner Human worlds.

Every day the Confederation fleet conducted battle drills. Horrabe had picked out a star system two days from Earth where he could drop the fleet out of hyperspace and could practice a number of mock drills and engagements. When he was satisfied with the combined fleet’s performance, he would move the fleet into the Earth system and commence the attack.

-

Admiral Kreen grew aggravated. Several times he had asked the Great Council to allow him to destroy one or two cities on the Human planets he was attempting to bring back under Confederation control. He was sure, if he were allowed to do this, the Human Empire would quickly capitulate and would agree to the edicts of the Confederation. His fleet was currently engaged against a Human world with a powerful defensive grid. It was far out in the Human Empire in an isolated region. It was the only reason he was being allowed to carry out this attack.

“How did they put up such a powerful defensive grid?” asked First Officer Falorr, as the Avenging Light shuddered from the weapons fire impacting its energy shield.

“They’re a very advanced world and heavily industrialized,” replied Admiral Kreen, as he studied some data on one of the screens. “Have all ships target the grid over the planet’s primary continent. Continue sending the demand for them to surrender. Inform them that failure to do so will have serious consequences.”

First Officer Falorr looked at Admiral Kreen but did not reply. Instead he turned to carry out his orders.

-

The battle in space intensified as the Druin battlecruisers and battleships closed with the planet’s defense grid. Above the planet, brilliant flashes of light showed where defensive satellites were being blown apart. Occasionally a brighter flash indicated the destruction of a Druin warship.

The defensive satellites were constantly firing their energy beams at the nearest Druin vessel. Missile platform crews were carefully choosing their targets and then firing huge barrages of missiles, which overwhelmed their target, smashing down its defensive screen and making the ship vulnerable to energy beam fire, as well as additional missiles.

For nearly twenty minutes the battle raged as the Druins tried to knock a hole in the grid over the primary continent. The military commanders on the ground were constantly moving satellites around to fill holes caused by the Druin attack.

-

The Avenging Light shook violently, throwing Admiral Kreen to the deck. He stood up and gazed at the damage control console and the several glaring red lights flashing there.

“Energy beam hit to our starboard side,” reported First Officer Falorr. “We have three compartments open to space.”

“Launch four fusion missiles at their capital city,” ordered Admiral Kreen. He was very angry that the Avenging Light had been damaged.

“Admiral, we’ve been ordered by the Great Council not to target any Human cities or other civilian population centers.”

“Our worlds are on guard for such an attack,” responded Kreen dismissively, as he sat back down. “Launch the missiles.”

First Officer Falorr nodded. He would not disobey a direct order from his admiral. “Stand by for orbital bombardment,” he ordered, stepping near the tactical officer. “Four Class One fusion missiles are to be targeted at the planet’s capital city. Air bursts at one thousand meters.”

The tactical officer looked from First Officer Falorr to Admiral Kreen and then carried out his orders.

“All ships are to focus on the defense grid directly above the capital,” ordered Kreen. “I want it weakened sufficiently, so our missiles will get through.” On one of the viewscreens, he saw another one of his battlecruisers being ripped apart from heavy weapons fire. This should not be happening and would not be happening if the council had agreed to his demands to strike at Human civilian population centers.

“Fleet is firing at designated coordinates,” reported First Officer Falorr.

“Missiles will be launched in twenty seconds,” the tactical officer informed Admiral Kreen.

“Put the capital up on the main viewscreen.” Kreen wanted to watch the destruction.

On the screen a sprawling city appeared. It stretched out for kilometers in all directions. Numerous towering skyscrapers were visible.

“Ten seconds,” reported the tactical officer.

Admiral Kreen’s eyes focused on the city. From the beginning, he felt it was a mistake not to bombard Human cities from orbit. If the Great Council had done things his way, this war with the Humans would be over. This would be a good demonstration for the council.

“Missiles are launching.”

-

From the Avenging Light four fusion missiles shot toward the planet. They flew rapidly through the weakened defensive grid. The ground commanders saw the missiles in disbelief. They changed the targeting of a number of satellites and managed to shoot two of them down. The remaining two missiles entered the atmosphere, streaking toward their target.

On the ground in the capital city, warning sirens sounded. Many people had already gone to shelters; now those who hadn’t sought a place of safety. Aircars lifted off and headed out of the city. Collisions became common as cars disobeyed the traffic rules. Panic spread, and soon all order in the city broke down.

Suddenly two brilliant flashes of light lit up the sky. Two massive blasts of heat and energy swept downward and out, smashing buildings and vaporizing tens of thousands of civilians. The blast wave traveled outward, leveling everything in its path. In less than twenty seconds nearly two million people died. The air suddenly rushed back into the heart of the twin blasts, forcing a column of superheated air to rise, creating twin mushroom clouds that shot high above the ravaged city. Damage now extended as far as twenty kilometers in all directions.

-

Admiral Kreen nodded in satisfaction. “What is the estimate on casualties?”

“Computer predicts ten to twelve million Humans will die from the immediate effects of the twin blasts,” reported First Officer Falorr. “Should we notify the Great Council of what we’ve done?”

“Contact the planet below and demand their surrender first. Tell them, if they don’t, we will destroy more of their cities. Order them to shut down their defense grid immediately.”

A few moments passed, and the communications officer turned toward Admiral Kreen. “The planet has surrendered, and the planetary defense grid is being shut down.”

Kreen looked over in First Officer Falorr’s direction. “Contact the Great Council and tell them what we’ve done. Also report the planet has surrendered and is now under Confederation control.” Perhaps now the council would see the wisdom of doing what Kreen suggested.

On the viewscreen, Admiral Kreen saw the two swelling mushroom clouds of the twin missile strike. Already the clouds were high up into the atmosphere. Today the Humans had been taught a valuable lesson. Future conquests should be much easier, and soon this absurd war with the Humans would be over.

-

A few hours Later High Princess Layla called an emergency meeting of the Imperial Council. The meeting was held in the newly completed situation room beneath the primary building of the House of Worlds. Only four members were present. It would take too long for the others to reach Golan Four. Later it would be required that all members of the House of Worlds keep representatives present, in case they were needed.

As soon as everyone arrived, Layla called the meeting to order. “We just received word that a Druin fleet has attacked the world of Ranier Two out on the periphery of the Empire. The world had a powerful defense grid and felt it was immune from being conquered by the Confederation.

“We believe Druin Admiral Kreen is in charge of this fleet. Under his orders, four fusion missiles were launched at the planet’s capital city. Two were shot down by the defensive grid, but two managed to penetrate the grid and detonate above the city. The civilian deaths are estimated to be between ten to twelve million.”

“But the Confederation’s Great Council agreed not to target civilian targets,” protested Governor Julian Bemire of Ambary Two.

“Admiral Kreen,” muttered Governor Elaina Dreel of Glimmer. “This action from this particular Druin admiral does not surprise me. He has bombed dozens of Human cities over the years, possibly more.”

Chancellor Darl Stein looked at Fleet Admiral Marloo. “What will we do? We don’t dare let this go unchallenged, or there will be more such bombings.”

Fleet Admiral Marloo let out a deep sigh. “High Princess Layla and I feel that, if we don’t respond, the Confederation’s Great Council will look at this failure to act as a sign of weakness. We have no choice but to send a fleet task force to the Confederation and attack one of the Druin worlds.”

“Who do we send?” asked Governor Dreel. “Our fleets are pretty extended as it is.”

Derrick stood and looked around the room. He hadn’t discussed what he was about to say with anyone. He saw Layla look at him with concern in her expression. “I’ll take Fifth Fleet into the Confederation and attack one of the Druins’ primary planets. We know from captured data where a number of them are located.”

Layla felt as if she had been punched in the gut.

Everyone in the room went silent for several moments. Then Princess Krista spoke. “That will be highly dangerous, and Fifth Fleet is but a fraction of what it once was.”

“It must be done,” said Prince Andrew, standing up. “It is the only response the Confederation and its Great Council will understand. Not only that, we must launch this attack as soon as possible. The more time that passes without a response, the more likely it is we will lose more cities and, with them, more planets.”

Layla wanted to send someone else, but there was no one. Derrick was one of the few admirals who had been in Confederation space. The other was Admiral Cleemorl, but he was busy setting up the defenses of Tantula Five and could not be spared. She noticed that everyone in the room were staring at her, including Andrew and Krista.

Layla slowly nodded her head. “Derrick and Prince Andrew are correct. In this instance, I don’t see where we have a choice. Derrick, how soon can Fifth Fleet be ready to depart?” Layla was doing everything she could to stop her voice from quivering. She was about to send her future husband on a highly dangerous mission, and there was a good chance he might not return.

“If we push it, the fleet can be ready late tomorrow.”

“What will you use as a flagship?” asked Fleet Admiral Marloo.

“The dreadnought Defiant arrived with Rear Admiral Carrie. It’s a new dreadnought straight out of Pallas. I’ll have my command crew transferred over immediately after this meeting.”

“What size is Fifth Fleet currently?”

Derrick let out a sigh. “Not as large as I would like. We have picked up a few ships from the convoys. Currently Fifth Fleet has eighteen dreadnoughts, counting the Defiant, and 132 battlecruisers. I would like to take two battlecarriers with me as well.”

“Why battlecarriers?” asked Andrew, looking confused.

“My heavy warships might not be able to get through the Druins’ defenses, but several hundred attack interceptors may be able to.”

“And an interceptor can carry four small fusion warheads,” said Fleet Admiral Marloo in understanding. “If just one or two get through, they could cause considerable damage.”

“That was my thinking,” admitted Derrick. “The Confederation has demonstrated in every battle where we have used attack interceptors that they are not prepared to deal with such craft. I’m hoping we’ll find the same is true of the defenses around their planets.”

Fleet Admiral Marloo stood and addressed the assembled group. “This will be an extremely dangerous mission. We have told the Confederation what we would do if any civilian targets were hit by Confederation forces. There is no doubt in my mind they will expect a swift response, and their defenses and fleets will be at the highest level of preparedness. Rear Admiral Masters, are you prepared for your fleet to suffer substantial losses to accomplish your mission?”

Derrick nodded. “We’ll do whatever is necessary.”

Marloo turned toward High Princess Layla, whose face was slightly pale. “High Princess, you and Rear Admiral Masters have announced your engagement to the Empire. Are you prepared to allow him to undertake this mission?”

Layla stood and forced her voice to remain in control. “He would not be the man I fell in love with if he were not willing to do this. I don’t want him to go, but I recognize that, for the good of the Empire, he must.”

“Very well, then we are decided. Rear Admiral Masters, prepare your fleet. Have the shipyards provide you with anything you think you may need. Contact Rear Admiral Carrie and have her assign two of her battlecarriers to this mission. I would recommend placing an extra squadron of attack interceptors on each one, as you may find you will need them.”

“How long will it take you to reach your target?” asked Andrew.

“About seven or eight days,” replied Derrick. “From what I know of the Druin worlds, the one I have in mind is deep in the Confederation. In order to make an impression on the Confederation, we must attack a major world. A large colony will not do.”

“Does anyone else have any questions?” asked Fleet Admiral Marloo.

There were a few questions, but all were quickly answered.

“If that is all then, I call this meeting to an end,” announced Layla. “Chancellor Stein, contact the other councilors who could not attend and inform them of our decision. I would also prefer that word of our planned attack not be announced until after we make the attack. I don’t want to run the risk of the Confederation discovering what we’re about to do.”

-

Layla walked with Derrick, as they left the nearly completed House of Worlds. “I absolutely hate this. We’re not even married yet, and you’re leaving on probably the most dangerous mission we’ve sent anyone on yet.”

Derrick stopped and took Layla’s hand. The guards stayed back, giving the two some privacy. “What would your brother have done?”

Layla let out a deep sigh. “The exact same thing. Just promise me one thing.”

“What’s that?”

“Come back to me. I’m not sure I can do this without you at my side.”

Derrick smiled. “You’re much stronger than you think. You’re the High Princess of the Human Empire. Look at what you’ve accomplished so far.”

Layla leaned forward and kissed Derrick. She didn’t care who was watching, and, after all, they were engaged. Leaning back, Layla stared into Derrick’s eyes. “When you get back, we’ll go to the deep vault beneath the Imperial Library, where the Royal jewelry is kept. We’ll pick out an engagement ring.”

Derrick nodded. “As you wish.”

“I’ll also wait to pick out most of the furnishings to my suite of rooms, since someday they will be yours as well.”

“I thought you and Krista would move in immediately.”

Layla nodded. “I’ll furnish several of the rooms to get me by until you return. I don’t really want to sleep on the floor.”

“We better get going,” suggested Derrick. “I have a lot of calls to make.”

The two turned and walked off together. The pair represented the future of the Empire, and Derrick was, once more, going off to war.

Chapter Fourteen

In the Confederation, the Great Council was once more meeting in an emergency session. The word of what Druin Admiral Kreen had done had spread quickly, and the council was expressing much concern over what the ramifications of that might be.

“He destroyed a large Human city, killing over ten million inhabitants,” began Ardon Reull. “High Princess Layla Starguard has made it very clear that such an action would result in retaliation and the loss of one of our worlds.”

“The Humans won’t dare attack us,” declared Clun, the Druin councilor, with confidence in his voice. “It was an idle threat they made in the hope of preserving their cities. I agree with Admiral Kreen. If we destroy more Human civilian targets, this war will end quickly.”

“But what if they do retaliate?” asked the Lamothian councilor. “We have already lost one of our worlds to a Human attack. We can’t afford to lose another.”

There was silence for a brief moment, and then Morag Councilor Damora spoke. “Admiral Kreen made a serious error in judgment. Inform him immediately that he is not to destroy another Human city. We must wait and see what the Humans’ reaction is to this current action. Inform Admiral Kreen that, if he disobeys the council again, he will be removed from the command of his fleet.”

“What do we do in the meantime, until we find out what the Humans will do?” demanded the Lamothian. “We have sent many of our ships with Fleet Admiral Horrabe. We have others in the Human Empire, and we suffered significant losses in previous battles.”

“Reduce our fleet units in our controlled star systems,” recommended Damora. “Pull back our fleets to defend our core worlds. It is almost certain the Humans will attack one or more, after what Admiral Kreen has done. I do not believe what High Princess Starguard said was an idle threat.”

Klug of the Morphene was constantly changing forms. At the moment he vaguely resembled a humanoid figure, though his body was partially see-through. “Are you certain the Humans will attack?”

“We have left them no choice,” answered Damora. “They will attack and attack soon. I suggest all our core worlds prepare.” Damora was angry at the action Admiral Kreen had taken. The Druin admiral was endangering the Confederation and the Morag’s future plans to dominate the galaxy. Damora allowed his mind to roam over the thoughts of each councilor, making them feel that what they had just heard was correct.

“We must do as Councilor Damora has suggested,” said Councilor Ardon Reull. “We shall recall our ships and will notify Admiral Kreen to halt all of his offensive actions for the time being, until we see what actions the Humans take.”

“Our fleets will be ready,” said Ralor Conn of the Zynth. “If the Humans come, we will destroy them.”

“How soon before Fleet Admiral Horrabe launches his attack on the Human world of Earth?” asked the Lamothian representative. “Can we ask him to spare part of the population to be used as a food source for my people?” Several big feasts were coming up shortly, and they had no semi-intelligent species for the special feasts.

Councilor Damora felt repulsed by the Lamothian’s request. Their desire for intelligent food had long been under discussion by the Morag. Due to the usefulness of the Lamothians, nothing had been done to bring it to a stop. All indications now seemed to indicate that had been a serious error. Probing the minds of several councilors, Damora chose Cryler, of the Zang, to speak. With a little mental prodding, Cryler was made to see the error of the Lamothians.

“No,” said Cryler, in his high screeching birdlike voice. “It is wrong to feed upon intelligent or semi-intelligent species. This council should have stopped your vile perversions long ago. In the future, no intelligent or semi-intelligent species will be made available for you to consume.”

Several councilors were stunned by these remarks. Very seldom was criticism of one of the seven races heard or allowed.

“The Morag agree,” said Councilor Damora.

“As to the Lamothians,” said Councilor Ardon Reull, “do any of the seven races object?’

“We do!” wailed the Lamothian. “We must have intelligent food for our feasts and rituals.”

Everyone else remained silent.

“I suggest you find some other food animal for your feasts. Effective as of today, no more intelligent or semi-intelligent species will be made available to you.”

“What about the Humans being used as slave labor on some of the core worlds?” asked the Lamothian desperately. “Surely those will still be made available.”

Ardon Reull shook his head. “No, those may be needed as a bargaining chip someday in this war against the Humans. They will continue to serve in the labor-intensive positions they currently have. None will be turned over to your people.”

“I wage a protest,” cried the Lamothian. “Our worlds demand a full hearing to determine the validity of our claims to be allowed to use intelligent food for our feasts and rituals. We have that right as one of the seven races.”

“As you wish,” replied Ardon Reull. “When this war with the Humans is over, we will consider your protest. As far as when Fleet Admiral Horrabe launches his attack, it should be sometime in the next few days. We are holding hyperlight communications to a minimum, so the Humans cannot determine the exact position of his fleet.”

Ardon Reull looked around at the councilors of the seven races. “I would suggest now we go prepare our core worlds for a possible attack. We must not underestimate the Humans, as they are extremely uncivilized and dangerous. They have already destroyed a Lamothian world. Don’t let one of yours be next!”

-

Derrick was onboard the Defiant, mobilizing his fleet for its attack in Confederation space.

“Admiral, Fleet Admiral Marloo has come onboard and is heading toward the Command Center,” reported Lieutenant Bree Wolman from Communications. She had replaced Andrew as communications officer.

“I wonder what he wants?” said Audrey, as she worked to familiarize herself with the new dreadnought and crew. She had already made three complete tours of the ship, meeting key officers and crewmembers.

“Probably to wish us well on our mission,” replied Derrick.

Derrick had been busy assembling Fifth Fleet and getting all the crews recalled. Some ships still only had 40 percent of their crews onboard. He had already said his goodbyes to Layla. She had cried in her quarters, begging Derrick not to take any unnecessary chances. He had promised her he wouldn’t, but he had a job to do, and he would accomplish it one way or another.

The hatch to the Command Center slid open, and Fleet Admiral Marloo stepped inside.

“Attention, admiral on deck!” shouted Captain Banora.

Everyone stood and saluted.

“As you were,” said Marloo with a smile. He stepped over to Derrick. “Would you please activate the ship’s address system and connect it to all the ships of Fifth Fleet.”

Derrick reached forward and pressed several icons on his command console. “All ships and crew are connected.”

“Members of Fifth Fleet, this is Fleet Admiral Marloo. You are about to embark on a very dangerous but necessary mission. The best wishes of the Empire go with you. Rear Admiral Masters has volunteered to lead this mission into Confederation space. He could very easily have stayed on Golan Four in the safety of the Imperial Palace. Instead he has chosen to lead this fleet in our time of need.”

“With the approval of the Imperial Council and High Princess Layla Starguard, Rear Admiral Derrick Masters is hereby promoted to the rank of full admiral of the Empire.” With a smile, Marloo took out a small box from a pocket and, opening it, removed the insignia of a full admiral and handed it to Derrick. “Wherever you go, the Empire goes.” Marloo stepped back and saluted Derrick, as did everyone else in the Command Center.

Derrick was at a loss for words. There was only one other full admiral in the fleet, and that was Admiral Cleemorl. He felt greatly honored by what had just been bestowed on him.

Returning the salute, Derrick spoke. “I won’t let you down, sir, or the crews of Fifth Fleet. We will accomplish our mission and will return.”

“Do what needs to be done, Admiral. Now let’s go to a briefing room and talk. I want to know your target and what your plans are for attacking it.”

-

In the Imperial Palace, Layla was in her suite of rooms. Before Derrick left, she had talked him into helping her pick out a few pieces of furniture. The bedroom was furnished, as well as the main living area. She was currently sitting on a comfortable couch, a pillow clutched to her chest. She had been crying, wondering if she were fit to be the High Princess of the Empire. She was showing weakness, but she couldn’t help it.

A knock came at her door, and Emira came in. “I thought I would find you like this.”

Layla looked at Emira, knowing she could not hide her feelings. “Is this wrong? Am I fit to be the High Princess?”

Emira smiled gently and came over and sat down beside Layla. “Your mother cried for hours when Aiden announced he would be defending Golan Four with the combined fleets. She knew he had volunteered to die so more of the people assigned to the Sanctuary project could escape. Being a ruler does not mean you have no emotions. You’re just as Human as anyone else. Derrick is a good man, and one I highly approve of. He reminds me of Aiden in many ways. We both know that, if Aiden were here, he would be the one leading this mission. If Derrick will be your husband, you must allow him to lead his own life and to do what is necessary to defend the Empire.”

Layla nodded and forced a smile. “He is a good person. I just hope Krista can find someone like him someday.”

“She may already have in Major Barkley. We’ll just wait and see where that goes. They’re both still very young.”

Layla laughed. “I’m only a few years older.”

“But more mature,” replied Emira. “A maturity forced upon you by the circumstances you find yourself in. Now, why don’t I order both of us something to eat, and we’ll eat in your quarters tonight. I think it’s best for you to get a good night’s sleep.”

Layla knew Emira was right. She hoped tomorrow would be a better day. Of course, it would also be the day Derrick went off to war once more.

-

The next day Fifth Fleet was fully assembled, and all ships had been resupplied and were carrying extra heavy loads of missiles. The two battlecarriers, Ranger and Intrepid, were in the center of the fleet next to the Defiant.

Derrick took a deep breath, as he gazed at the viewscreens focused on the assembled fleet. It would be a spear aimed at the heart of the Confederation. Derrick just hoped they could strike their target. He had just returned from his private quarters, where he had spent nearly twenty minutes talking to Layla and assuring her that he would return. He had also spent a few minutes talking to Prince Andrew, making sure he would look after Layla, if the mission failed.

“All ships report ready to enter hyperspace,” reported Audrey.

“No point in delaying. Set our course and take the fleet into hyperspace.”

Audrey quickly passed on the order, and soon the fleet made the transition. The fleet would maintain hyperlight silent, and no communications would be had until the fleet was safely out of Confederation space. For the next ten to twelve days, there would be no communication with Golan Four or any other world or ship in the Empire.

Derrick felt the Defiant make the transition into hyperspace, and the system of Golan Four quickly fell away behind them. His gaze moved automatically to the large tactical display, which revealed the myriad of friendly green icons surrounding the Defiant. For better or for worse, they were on their way to attack a Druin core world. It had to be a Druin world, since it was a Druin admiral who had attacked Ranier Two.

“What planet are we attacking?” asked Audrey. She had been curious ever since she had found out they would attack a Confederation world.

Derrick smiled. “One they would never expect. We’ll attack the planet Druin Six, the Druins’ homeworld.”

Audrey suddenly turned pale. She couldn’t believe what she had just heard. “That will be the most heavily defended world the Druins have.”

“Maybe,” replied Derrick. “But attacking the homeworld of the Druins will be the last thing they will expect. I intend to blow their capital city back to the stone age and to leave a massive smoking scar on the planet. The Druins have bombed hundreds of Human cities over the last one thousand years. Billions have died in their attacks, and that does not include the ones taken to the Lamothian worlds and used as a food source. It’s time they learn what it feels like to lose something valuable.”

Audrey remained silent for several long moments, as she thought over what Derrick had said. “Can we do it?”

“Maybe. I have a plan, and we’ll have a lot to discuss. At some point, when we drop out of hyperspace, both of the battlecarrier captains will come over to the Defiant, along with their CAGs. I have the inkling of a plan, but I’ll need their input.”

Audrey’s eyes widened. “You planned on attacking the Druin capital from the very beginning. That’s why you wanted the two battlecarriers included in Fifth Fleet.”

“It’s the only move that makes sense, and it will ensure no Human civilian targets are attacked in the future. It might also force the Confederation to pull back more of their ships to defend their core worlds, giving us more time to prepare the Empire for a long war.”

Audrey looked at the tactical display of the green icons surrounding the Defiant. “A lot of those ships are not coming back, are they?”

Derrick slowly shook his head. “Probably not. We’ll be in for a violent battle in the Druin system, and we’ll take some substantial losses. It’ll take some time for the attack I’m planning to be implemented. During that time, we must keep the Druins concentrated on us and not the battlecarriers.”

-

Leaning back in his command chair, Derrick thought back to how Fleet Admiral Marloo had reacted when Derrick told him of his planned target and how he would destroy it.

“That’s a daring plan,” Marloo said, shaking his head. “Most of our admirals, except maybe Admiral Cleemorl, would never consider it. What do you think the odds are of pulling this off?”

Derrick hesitated with his answer. “Destroying the target, around 70 to 80 percent. Escaping with most of my fleet intact? Very slight.”

Marloo folded his arms across his chest, as he thought over what Derrick had just revealed to him. “I could order you to change the target.”

“You could,” replied Derrick, meeting the fleet admiral’s gaze, “but this one makes the most sense.”

The fleet admiral stood and walked across Derrick’s office. “No way I’m telling the High Princess what you’re planning.”

“It’s best she doesn’t know. She’ll worry enough as it is, and she has an Empire to run.”

“Okay, I approve your attack plan, and I’ll keep your target secret, until after we hear from you. For all our sakes, I hope you’re successful.”

“So do I,” answered Derrick.

-

Admiral Kreen’s fleet was still in orbit around Ranier Two. He had just received his orders from the Great Council.

“We’re to suspend all offensive actions until further notice,” said First Officer Falorr. “They are not pleased with our destruction of a Human city. The council fears some immediate retaliation somewhere in the Confederation.”

“Useless fears,” replied Kreen, shaking his head and flexing his powerful arms. “We did what had to be done. What we’ve been doing in the Human Empire for over one thousand years. Look what happened here. As soon as we destroyed one of their cities, the planet capitulated.”

“But what if the Humans attack one of our worlds in the Confederation?”

“It should be no major concern of ours or of the council. The Humans might attack one of our controlled worlds near the edge of our Empire. We have over sixty thousand of them. What is the loss of one city on a minor planet?”

Falorr was silent for a moment and then replied. “Perhaps you are right. What shall we do about the council’s orders?”

“We’ll wait here,” replied Kreen. “In the meantime we will send out battlecruisers to scout our next targets. Ten other Human worlds are nearby that must be brought back under Confederation control. As soon as the council realizes the threat to the Confederation itself is minimal, they will allow us to go back on the offensive, and I intend to take control of all ten of those systems.”

Kreen’s gaze went to the main viewscreen, showing the area where the two fusion missiles had detonated above the planet. In the capital city were two large craters, surrounded by a burned-out area that stretched for kilometers in all directions. Crews of Humans in hazmat gear worked frantically to rescue survivors. Large tent cities had been set up just outside the destruction to deal with the injured.

In the city itself, fires still raged, and palls of smoke rose high into the air. Much of the city was obscured by the smoke and ashes that filled the air. Kreen nodded in satisfaction. It would be years before this world dared to challenge the Confederation again. It was a lesson that all the Human worlds needed to learn. The seven races were the supreme races in the galaxy, and all others were meant to be subservient. Admiral Kreen was determined to force that belief upon every Human and alien species he encountered.

-

Layla walked around the Palace with Chancellor Stein, inspecting the latest work that had been finished. All six of the sky towers had been refurbished or rebuilt. The sky bridges had been repaired and were now safe to use. All the Royal living quarters were finished, and the Palace almost looked as it did before the Confederation attacked.

“I didn’t know if I would ever see it like this again.” They were in an upper level of the Palace, standing on a grand balcony. Layla could smell the scent of fresh paint. Chancellor Stein had cautioned her against touching anything, as some of the paint was still wet.

“This is something I have dreamed about all my life,” confessed the Chancellor. “And not just me. People all across the planet wanted the Palace restored, but we dared not for fear of Druin intervention.”

“In my time the Palace was full of life. Nearly every night the Royal Court was full. It was a place where people gathered to tell tales of the Empire and to introduce their families to the High King and the High Queen. Meals were served almost nightly in the main dining halls.”

“As they will again,” promised Chancellor Stein. “As soon as the House of Worlds is complete, we can expect to have many of the most important families of the core worlds, as well as others, visit the Palace routinely. A new Royal Court will come into being.”

Layla turned toward Chancellor Stein. “What’s the latest count on worlds that have agreed to rejoin the Empire?” Layla knew representatives of the Empire had spread out across hundreds of worlds, all of them speaking to the planetary governors.

“We have eighty-seven currently, and that includes the worlds in the Hagen Star Cluster, where Admiral Cleemorl is.”

“Will there be any more?”

Chancellor Stein paused. “I don’t know. The holdup now is us being able to defend those worlds. All the eighty-seven who have agreed have large industrial complexes and have put massive defensive grids around their worlds. They are also close enough where Imperial fleets or Resistance Fleets can come to their aid.”

Layla bit her lip. She had hoped for many more. “How many are left that still might join?”

Shaking his head, Chancellor Stein looked out over the city. “Maybe eighteen to twenty. The rest are too frightened to go against the Confederation, until we’re capable of defending them. If we had the fleets, we could easily bring another hundred or more worlds into the Empire.”

“How soon will we have the fleets?” Layla knew the shipyards in the core worlds as well as others were already building large numbers of warships.

“Two months before we start to see substantial numbers coming out of the construction bays. We’re currently building six battlecruisers for every dreadnought. It’s a ratio deemed best by our military leaders, considering our shortened time frame.”

“How long does it take to build a ship?” Layla knew much of the work was being done by robotics.

“Two months for a battlecruiser and three for a dreadnought.”

Layla frowned, thinking of the ramifications. Earth was about to come under attack and most likely would not be able to supply more ships for months to come, even if they survived the upcoming Confederation attack. It would be another few months before the Empire started producing large numbers of warships. “Can we get by until our shipyards start putting out ships?”

“We hope so,” replied Stein. “I spoke to Fleet Admiral Marloo, and he says the Confederation will be partially crippled if their attack on Earth fails.”

“Will it fail?” Layla hated to even think what it might mean if the Confederation managed to destroy the Earth system.

“I don’t know,” replied Stein truthfully. “We know from reports that Admiral Reynolds is heavily fortifying the system, and they have thousands of attack interceptors available. He feels they can hold out, but, in war, anything can happen. Remember. We know nothing about this Morag race.”

“How long before the Confederation makes a move against our fortified systems?” Layla knew the new Empire needed more time to switch over to a wartime economy.

“It depends on what happens at Earth and what Admiral Masters accomplishes on his mission. With a little luck we could be looking at months before the Confederation can make a major move.”

Layla folded her arms across her chest. “If we just had a few more fleets, we could bring many more of the Human worlds back into the Empire.”

“But we don’t,” Stein reminded her. “We don’t dare spread ourselves too thin, or the Confederation forces in the Empire now could become an even greater danger.”

Layla looked out across the city. It was the most beautiful city in the Empire. She remembered, when she was younger, standing in the sky towers with her mother, looking at the city, and her mother telling her the Empire was made up of people, and it was the responsibility of the Royal Family to see the needs of the people were always met.

Layla’s gaze moved upward to the clouds floating peacefully above. She wondered what Derrick was doing and if he would return to her. She was very proud of Derrick for volunteering to undertake this mission, and she hoped everything would work out. She needed Derrick at her side. With a deep sigh, Layla turned to go back inside. She was the High Princess of the Empire, and there was still much work that needed to be done.

Chapter Fifteen

Fleet Admiral Horrabe was satisfied with the recently completed fleet drills. They had dropped out of hyperspace about twenty light-years from the Earth system and spent two entire days running drills. Horrabe was determined his massive fleet would be ready when they engaged the Humans.

“Set a course for the Earth star system,” ordered Horrabe, when the last drill was finally finished. “It’s time we brought this rebellion to an end.”

“All fleets have been assigned targets,” reported High Commander Corr. “We are ready to enter hyperspace.”

Horrabe nodded his large head. “So it begins. Once the fleets have destroyed their assigned targets, they are to go to stage two and await further orders.”

The fleet admiral had thought this attack through very thoroughly. He would not make the same mistakes his predecessors had. On the main viewscreens, ships vanished as they entered hyperspace to attack the Earth star system.

-

Admiral Reynolds was asleep in his quarters when the Condition Two alarms sounded. His comm instantly went off with the attention light blinking wildly. Rolling out of bed, he reached over and activated it. “Admiral Reynolds.”

“We have confirmed hostile contacts in a red dwarf star system twenty-two light-years distant,” reported the female voice.

Reynolds recognized the voice as belonging to Colonel Susan Williams, one of the off-shift operations officers for the Pallas Command Center.

“One of our picket vessels detected them a few hours ago on its patrol. The ships have now entered hyperspace on a confirmed course for the Sol System.”

Admiral Reynolds drew in a deep breath. “Have everyone report to their stations and prepare to go to Condition One. I’ll be in the Command Center shortly.” Reynolds hurriedly got dressed and was soon on his way. In the corridors, red lights flashed, and a voice coming over the comm system instructed everyone to remain calm.

-

It didn’t take long for Admiral Reynolds to reach the Command Center. The hatch was now shut and guarded by half a dozen heavily armed Marines. Showing his credentials, he was allowed inside, where four more Marines waited. Finally he reached his command chair Reynolds sat down, relieving Colonel Williams. “What’s the latest report?”

“The battlecruiser Hilliard reports detecting 8,214 Confederation warships. At their current speed they should be here in about two hours.”

“They’re coming slow,” commented Colonel Evelyn Bryson, who had just come into the Command Center behind the admiral. “What do you think they’ll do first?”

“Not sure. The Morag are supposedly in charge of this fleet. I’m guessing they’ll take out the interdiction battlestations first. Send a message to all our admirals of the strength of the Confederation fleet and its estimated arrival time. I’ll be in touch with them as the situation develops.”

“Should we call in the interceptors out on deep patrol?”

Reynolds shook his head. “No, let’s wait and see what happens first.”

In a few more minutes all the primary Command Center personnel had reported in and had taken their spots before their consoles.

“All warships are undocking from all shipyards,” reported Captain Moore at Communications. “Fleets are assembling and waiting for orders. Orderly evacuations to underground bunkers has commenced on all worlds and colonies.”

“What about the interceptor crews? Should we call them to their stations?” asked Colonel Williams.

“No, not yet,” Reynolds stated. “Let them get a few more hours of rest. Once this starts, it may be a while before they can shut down.”

On the main tactical displays were various ships across the system as they took precautionary measures. All cargo and passenger liners were heading to safety beneath the massive defense grids of Earth and Mars. Mining ships and other small vessels went into hiding around the asteroids. Other vessels shut down their power and stayed dark. Short hyperspace jumps were allowed to get the space in the Solar System cleared.

“We have a passenger ship with a failed hyperdrive out past the orbit of Mars,” reported Colonel Bryson. “Mars Station is sending out some tugs to bring her in. They estimate it will take two and a half hours to get the passenger ship to safety.”

Reynolds nodded. “That should be sufficient, assuming the Confederation fleet attacks the battlestations first. How are the evacuations going?” Many of the smaller mining colonies had finally agreed to evacuate to the larger ones. Others had gone deep underground, until this was over.

“Everyone is taking cover,” reported Colonel Williams, the operations officer. “Ganymede, and the other Jovian moons are putting their people into the underground bunkers as rapidly as they can. Same for Titan.”

“I wish there was room for everyone,” muttered Colonel Bryson. “Only 60 percent of the people on those moons can fit into those bunkers.”

Reynolds let out a deep sigh. “We tried to get more of them to evacuate. There’s only so much we can do.” Reynolds had pleaded with the leaders on some of those moons to evacuate their people. Some had agreed, while others had completely ignored the advice.

The fleet admiral’s gaze moved to several viewscreens focused on Titan. Massive crowds could be seen trying to get into the bunkers. Hundreds of Marines were doing their best to control the crowds, letting in women and children first. It was already getting out of control.

“It’s like that on every colony,” said Colonel Bryson. “We’ll lose some people just trying to get them into the bunkers. We’re sending more Marines to help with the evacuations.”

“Our Marines are doing the best they can,” replied Reynolds, as he gazed at other screens showing similar scenes. Only on Ganymede was there a semblance of calm. Of course Ganymede, with its large population, also had the largest contingent of Marines.

“All outlying picket ships have been recalled,” reported Colonel Williams. All those ships would be needed in the defense of the Solar System.

Admiral Reynolds leaned back in his command chair. They had a plan, and everyone knew what to do. All he had to do for the next several hours was ensure everyone adhered to what they had worked out. Now it was a waiting game to see exactly where the Confederation struck first.

-

Time continued to tick down, and suddenly eight Confederation fleets materialized out of hyperspace around all eight interdiction battlestations on the edge of the Solar System. The battlestations were under AI control, but those AIs had been reprogrammed by Linda Martin and Alicia Morr.

As soon as the AIs detected the incoming Confederation ships, energy shields snapped into place, and energy turrets turned and sought targets. Hundreds of hatches slid open, revealing deadly fusion and antimatter missiles. Energy beam satellites and missile platforms quickly locked on target. Two seconds after the Confederation fleets emerged from hyperspace, the battlestations fired.

-

Fleet Admiral Horrabe clenched the armrest of his command chair, causing one of the armrests to crack. His flagship shook violently as its protective energy screen lit up from the ferocity of the attack from the battlestation his segment of the fleet was englobing.

“Fire!” he roared. The battlestations were far heavier armed than he had expected. It seemed as if every square meter of the battlestation’s hull sprouted a weapon of some sort.

On one of the viewscreens, a Morag battlecruiser exploded, sending fiery debris across space, slamming into the shields of several nearby vessels. “Increase our ship spacing,” ordered Horrabe, his gaze glued to the viewscreens.

Horrabe’s own weapons were now impacting the battlestation’s energy screen. Space around the station was full of explosions, as the fleet took out the orbiting satellites and missile platforms. The platforms were firing nonstop, trying to drain their missile reserves before they were destroyed. In massive flashes of light, the platforms were annihilated one by one.

-

The AI in charge of the battlestation was running through thousands of calculations to make its weapons cause the maximum amount of damage possible. On a screen, a counter ticked down—the estimated time until the shield failed and the station was destroyed.

At the moment the counter was at fifty-two seconds and counting down. The AI adjusted all the station’s weapons to fire upon just two ships of the Morag. One of the chosen battlecruisers was slammed, as dozens of antimatter missiles detonated against its energy screen, and fusion energy beams probed the wavering shield, seeking a weakness.

Suddenly a dark spot appeared in a small area of the screen, and a fusion beam shot though, blasting a cavernous hole in the side of the ship. The shield flickered briefly, and that was enough to allow four antimatter missiles to penetrate and to explode against the hull. For a brief moment a light as bright as a nova appeared. When it died down, the Morag battlecruiser was gone.

The AI turned its attention to the battleship it was attacking on the other side of the station. Its energy screen glowed brightly as waves of energy crashed against its shield from exploding warheads. The battlestation suddenly shook violently, and a number of red lights appeared on the damage control console. The AI noted the shield had been penetrated by several fusion beams, causing considerable damage to sector 17, and subsectors 20 thorough 27. The AI instantly sealed off those sections and rerouted power.

The energy screen protecting the bow of the battleship suddenly dimmed, and a fusion missile managed to penetrate. In a huge explosion, the forward one-third of the battleship blew apart. The shield protecting the rest of the ship suddenly faded, and dozens of fusion and antimatter missiles slammed into the remaining section of the ship. When the explosions faded, all that was visible were a few glowing fields of drifting gas.

The station shook steadily now. The AI directed its fire not to necessarily destroy Confederation ships but to damage them, as the number of weapons it had available rapidly dwindled. The station suddenly seemed to keel over to one side, as a severe vibration threatened to tear it apart.

The AI noted a fusion missile had penetrated the structure, and nearly one-quarter of the battlestation was missing. Even as it watched, an antimatter missile detonated in the damaged area. While raging antimatter fire consumed the AI, it noted it still had two seconds left on its countdown clock.

-

Fleet Admiral Horrabe watched as the station blew apart, sending debris flying in all directions. The battle had been much more intense than he had expected. The Humans had loaded the former Druin interdiction station full of weapons. “What were our losses?” Horrabe knew several of his warships had been destroyed.

“We lost four battlecruisers and one battleship,” reported High Commander Corr. “We have another seven battlecruisers and two battleships reporting significant damage.”

Horrabe wondered if this meant anything. He knew from scans that not a single Human had been onboard the station. He had been fighting an AI. Five ships and their crews lost, and not a single Human had been killed. “Take the fleet to the rendezvous coordinates for Stage Two. Also launch the sensor drones. I want detailed scans of this entire system.”

He did not trust these Humans. Horrabe felt the station should have been more heavily defended. He was certain the Humans were up to something. He must figure out what it was.

-

Inside the Pallas Command Center, Admiral Reynolds let out a long breath. He looked over knowingly at Colonel Bryson. “About what we expected. Sensor satellites in the far reaches of the Solar System indicate that all eight battlestations had been destroyed. How many ships did they lose?”

“Forty-one battlecruisers and three battleships.”

On the tactical display, Reynolds saw the Confederation fleets all enter hyperspace. “Where are they going?” It was obvious they were not heading toward any of the moons or planets in the system.

“They’re rendezvousing at two locations just outside the orbit of Neptune,” reported Major Fields from Sensors. “Admiral, all eight Confederation fleets have released hundreds of probes.” On the tactical display, several thousand small red icons were now visible. They spread slowly throughout the Solar System.

“Sensor probes,” said Colonel Williams, frowning. “They want detailed scans of our defenses.”

“They’ve never done that before,” said Colonel Bryson. “Why now?”

“We’ve never fought a Morag before either,” replied Admiral Reynolds, as he gazed at the tactical displays. “Contact all our interceptors out on patrol and have them destroy as many of those probes as possible. Just maybe we can minimize the tactical data the Confederation is gathering. Have all our bases put up some additional interceptors to take those probes out if they come near.”

“They’re moving slowly,” commented Colonel Williams. “At that speed it will take them nearly six hours to gather detailed data on all the system.”

“Hours the Confederation will be using to repair their damaged ships,” said Admiral Reynolds. It was now becoming obvious this Morag admiral would not rush into anything. This caused Reynolds to feel some concern. This admiral was not like the others who had attacked the Solar System in the past.

-

In the Human Empire, Fleet Admiral Marloo, General Gantts, High Princess Layla, Chancellor Stein, and Rear Admiral Lira Carrie were all in the massive underground Command Center, waiting as the reports of Earth’s resistance came in.

“All eight battlestations gone,” said Carrie, shaking her head. “I’ve seen those stations, and they were as heavily armed as ten dreadnoughts, and that does not include the defense satellites and missile platforms that formed a protective ring around them.”

“Each was attacked by over one thousand ships,” said Fleet Admiral Marloo. “Admiral Reynolds knew they would not survive, and that’s why he had them evacuated and didn’t waste any warships defending them.”

“It’s still a big loss in resources,” commented Rear Admiral Carrie. “They must be rebuilt.”

“Over 8,200 Confederation warships are in that fleet,” added General Gantts. “From the initial reports, there are ships from each of the seven races.”

“This will be one hell of a battle,” said Rear Admiral Carrie. “Can Earth win?” She was familiar with the defenses in the Solar System; even so, she wasn’t sure if it was enough.

“The Solar System is our most heavily fortified Human system,” said Fleet Admiral Marloo. “The Confederation has not yet encountered the true defenses of the system, and none of Earth’s warships or attack interceptors have been committed. This is a long way from over.”

Chancellor Stein folded his arms across his chest. “This will last for quite some time, won’t it?”

Fleet Admiral Marloo nodded. “Most likely. This is a battle that may go on for several days, before it’s decided.”

“Then I suggest we go to one of the conference rooms, where we’ll be more comfortable,” said Layla. “I also want to prepare a rescue and assistance fleet to aid in reconstruction and recovery efforts in the Solar System, as needed. While we may not have warships to send, we do have people who have considerable experience in dealing with destroyed cities, due to the Druins.”

“I’ll make the necessary arrangements,” replied Chancellor Stein. “I believe we can make up such a fleet from the core worlds in just a day or two.”

Layla nodded. “As soon as it’s ready, send it toward Earth. We can always recall it if it’s not needed.” Layla hoped it wouldn’t be for, if it was, it would indicate the Solar System had suffered major damage and population losses. If the Empire was to survive and to grow, it needed Earth to survive.

-

Lieutenant Truman banked his interceptor sharply to the left, as he came up on another of the Confederation’s sensor drones. In the last hour he had destroyed seven of the elusive probes.

“Locking on,” reported Lieutenant Banks, as the interceptor fell in behind the dodging alien drone. “Target lock! Firing!”

From the interceptor a small missile blasted toward the probe, striking it dead center, the probe and the missile vanishing in a small fireball, which quickly dissipated.

“Scratch number eight,” bragged Banks. “That’s all of our harvester missiles.”

Truman nodded. “Time to return to the barn to rearm. I hope everyone else is having as much success as we are.” Turning the interceptor, Truman kicked in the afterburners and headed back toward Ganymede Central. He knew they were still in the early stages of the battle.

-

Fleet Admiral Horrabe studied the data coming in. The Humans were rapidly destroying the probes, but that was fine. He had half expected that. As it was, the probes were providing a wealth of tactical information.

“Do we stay with the plan?” asked High Commander Corr.

Fleet Admiral Horrabe nodded. “I don’t see anything that suggests we need to change, at least not yet. How are our ships doing as far as repairs?”

“Nearly complete. We only have two battlecruisers that won’t be at 100 percent efficiency when we’re ready to renew our attack.”

Horrabe looked at the tactical displays, still filling with data. “We will renew our attack in two hours. The targets will be the moons of the two gas giants as we had planned earlier. Make sure all commanders are familiar with their mission objectives.” It was nearing time to kill some actual Humans.

-

“Do we defend Ganymede with a fleet?” asked Colonel Evelyn Bryson. She gazed at the tactical display of the Jovian system of moons.

Admiral Reynolds slowly nodded his head. “I think we must. Ganymede has very powerful defenses. We could inflict some major losses on the Confederation fleet when they attack, particularly if we send in Rear Admiral Leeson and his Second Fleet. I will speak with Leeson shortly, as well as Colonel Green, who is in command of Ganymede Central.”

“What about Titan?” asked Colonel Susan Williams, the Operations Officer. She knew over seven million people lived on Titan. Surely they would not abandon them.

“No, we can’t afford to commit Leeson’s fleet out that far. We’re pushing it just by sending him to Ganymede. Titan’s pretty well defended, six ODPs in orbit and eight PDCs. It also has a defensive grid but not as powerful as I would like. For now, they’re on their own.”

“Does Governor Blake know the fleet won’t be coming to his rescue?” asked Williams. She looked at a viewscreen, showing people crowding into an underground bunker under the watchful supervision of a number of Marines.

Reynolds nodded. “Yes, we’ve spoken about this. He’s getting as many people as possible away from the settlements and into the underground bunkers. We’re just hoping to hold the losses to a minimum.”

Reynolds wasn’t pleased about this decision, but he had to think first about Earth, the Moon, Mars, and Pallas. Those had to be his primary concerns, though he would put considerable effort into saving Ganymede. Twenty million people were on Ganymede and probably more now from all the evacuations.

-

Rear Admiral Leeson was in the Command Center of the Titan, his flagship. He currently had 607 battlecruisers and 41 dreadnoughts in his fleet. He drummed the fingers of his right hand on the armrest of his command chair, keeping his gaze on the tactical display. At the moment it was linked into the sensors on Ganymede Central. His fleet was currently at Condition two, though he expected to go to Condition One shortly.

“How much longer?” asked Captain Newman. Everyone was growing impatient for the main part of the battle to start.

Leeson shook his head. “They’re in no hurry. They must have received some damage from the battlestations. That was pretty intense for a few minutes. I suspect they’re repairing their ships and reviewing the data from all those damn probes they’ve sent everywhere.”

“No secrets this time, huh?”

“No, by now they know what our defenses are and what they must do to take them out.”

Suddenly alarms sounded on the sensor console.

“Enemy ships entering hyperspace,” reported Lieutenant Stewart at Sensors. “Their targets are Saturn and Jupiter.”

Captain Newman looked confused. “Why not jump directly to Earth and attack us here, while they still have their full strength?”

“This Morag admiral is a clever one. He’s testing our defenses. If he has an easy time at Saturn and Jupiter, then he will move on to his next target. He’s making sure he doesn’t over commit his fleet.”

“What are your orders?”

“Take the fleet to Condition One and prepare to jump to Jupiter. As soon as we have confirmed locations on the enemy fleet units, we’ll jump in and assist Ganymede Central.” It was time to show this Morag admiral that the Solar System would not be a pushover.

Chapter Sixteen

Fleet Admiral Horrabe’s fleet came out of hyperspace a few thousand kilometers above Titan. It was a large moon orbiting Saturn that had been terraformed, and sensor scans from the probes had indicated a number of large Human settlements.

“Keep the fleet together,” ordered Horrabe. “As the moon’s defenses come into range, we’ll destroy them as we proceed in our orbit.”

“Confirming previous sensor scans,” reported High Commander Corr. “A defensive grid surrounds the moon, as well as six large orbiting military structures. Also eight large fortifications are on the surface. No signs of any warships.”

On the viewscreen, a large space station appeared. Already small shuttles were leaving it and heading toward the surface.

“The space station is armed and protected by an energy shield.”

“Weapons range!” called out the tactical officer.

“Fire!” ordered Horrabe. He wanted this moon and its defenses annihilated as quickly as possible.

From four thousand warships, energy beams and missiles were fired and launched.

-

In the underground Command Center near the capital, Colonel Edwards watched as the Confederation fleet opened fire. At the same time he gave the order for the defense grid, the ODPs, and the space station to return fire.

“That fleet’s massive,” muttered Governor Blake in despair, his gaze focused on the viewscreens. “We can’t defeat that!”

“We know,” replied Edwards. “That’s one of the reasons Admiral Reynolds wanted us to evacuate as many people as possible.”

“What about the bunkers?” Dozens of large underground bunkers were next to the cities. It had been a terrible expense just to build them.

“Won’t hold all of our people,” answered Major Janine Patterson. “We’ve already given the order to seal them up. Everyone left on the surface is being directed to flee into the countryside.”

Governor Blake looked upset. “The fleet should be defending us. We should never have sent so many ships to the Empire.”

“Then we would be totally alone,” retorted Colonel Edwards. “Earth on its own cannot defeat the Confederation.”

On the viewscreens, the space above Titan was now filled with light from multiple explosions. There was no doubt in Colonel Edwards’ mind, when this was over, it would be necessary to reactivate the terraforming machines to bring the moon back to its currents state—assuming there would be some survivors.

“Should we launch the attack interceptors?” asked Major Patterson. Her gaze went from screen to screen, trying to keep up with the battle in space.

Colonel Edwards nodded. “Yes, tell them their primary mission is to protect the space station and to take out damaged enemy ships. Let’s get them up as quickly as possible.” Edwards knew the interceptors had little chance of surviving this engagement. Even so, the crews had volunteered to go up anyway.

A minute later on one of the viewscreens, interceptors began launching from their underground hanger complex. Interceptor after interceptor roared off toward space and the dreadful fate awaiting them.

-

Fleet Admiral Horrabe watched as his fleet easily decimated most of the defenses around the moon. However, the six large orbiting defense stations were causing problems. They seemed to have the firepower of half a dozen battleships, if not more. Already a number of battlecruisers had been blown apart attacking them. Even as he watched on the main viewscreen, another battlecruiser was ripped open by intense weapons fire from one of the stations.

“We’re losing ships to both those big defensive stations and coordinated missile fire from the defense grid,” reported High Commander Corr. “I’ve directed our ships to make the Humans’ missile platforms a high priority.”

“Have our battleships focus on those six large stations,” ordered Horrabe. “They must be destroyed before we can assault the surface.”

“Fleet Admiral,” interrupted Sensor Officer Tanod. “We have a large number of small spacecraft leaving the surface.”

“Put them up on a viewscreen.”

On a screen, several hundred small ships became visible.

“Their small attack craft,” said High Commander Corr. “From our reports, they are armed with fusion tipped missiles, fusion energy cannons, and a forward-facing energy shield.”

“Where are they headed?”

“The space station,” answered Tanod.

“They seek to add to its defense,” commented Corr in realization. “It will make it more difficult to destroy.”

Fleet Admiral Horrabe knew Corr was correct. “Let us focus on the large battlestations first. When we have annihilated them, we will destroy the space station.” Horrabe had a plan, and he intended to stick with it.

The four thousand ships of Admiral Horrabe’s fleet divided up and launched a full-scale assault against the stations in an attempt to overwhelm their weapons fire. Massive antimatter explosions crawled over the protective energy screens of each station, forcing the screens to radiate brighter and brighter. In massive detonations easily visible from Titan’s surface, two of the stations died.

-

“The ODPs can’t handle that kind of firepower,” said Major Patterson, as he watched the two stations blow apart. Nearly four hundred fleet personnel were on each ODP. She felt great sadness at their loss and yet pride at the bravery they showed in manning the ODPs.

“The other ODPs won’t last much longer,” said Colonel Edwards. On the main viewscreen, he saw the Confederation fleet taking losses as well. Several battlecruisers were now nothing more than drifting hulks, and a battleship had been ripped in two by weapons fire from the ODPs. “How’s the evacuation of the major cities going?”

“Nearly 70 percent complete,” answered Patterson. “Some people are refusing to leave.”

“Those cities are their homes,” explained Governor Blake. His face was extremely pale, knowing that everything he and his people had worked for was about to be destroyed, and he could do nothing to prevent it.

-

In space, a massive explosion marked the end of the last ODP. Flaming debris flew everywhere, most of it drawn down toward the surface of the moon. The rest of the defense grid was quickly annihilated.

Gathering its ships, the enemy fleet approached the shipyard. It had been evacuated and was controlled from the large underground Command Center. The three hundred attack interceptors were gathered around it, waiting for the approaching Confederation warships.

As the fleet approached, the interceptors suddenly darted forward in squadron formations. Their targets were damaged Confederation warships designated by the Command Center. Heavy weapons fire from the amassed Confederation fleet destroyed nearly 140 of the incoming interceptors in just the first few seconds. But the weapons on the Confederation ships were not designed to destroy small vessels, such as the interceptors were. The surviving interceptors darted into the Confederation fleet formation, making it difficult to fire on them. Small fusion-warhead-tipped missiles were launched, and fifteen damaged battlecruisers were turned into miniature novas.

-

From the Command Center, a message was sent to all the surviving attack interceptors. There was no way they could be rearmed. Instead they were ordered to leave the Saturn system of moons and head to Mars. The trip would take about eight hours, which the interceptors could easily do. As the interceptors pulled away from the enemy fleet, more were destroyed. When they were finally out of range, only eighty-three survived.

-

Colonel Edwards leaned back in his command chair, drawing in a deep breath. Only the space station survived in orbit, and the Confederation fleet was already entering weapons range. He watched silently as the viewscreens revealed the station’s energy screen suddenly erupting with light from the massive explosions tearing at it. Return weapons fire took out a few enemy vessels but not nearly enough to make a difference.

In a massive explosion, a full one-quarter of the station was torn apart. The station wobbled badly as more missiles and energy beams struck it. The energy screen finally failed completely, and antimatter missiles turned the rest of the station into an orbiting wreck of twisted metal and small fields of glowing gas. Something that had taken several years to build was now gone.

“What now?’ asked Governor Blake. He felt hopeless. There was no doubt in his mind they all would soon die.

“We let them get closer and then hit them with weapons fire from the PDCs,” replied Colonel Edwards. “The eight PDCs have as much firepower as the defense grid, the ODPs, and the space station combined. If they want to bomb Titan, we’ll make them pay for it.” Edwards was determined to take out as many ships of the invaders as possible.

-

Fleet Admiral Horrabe moved his fleet closer to the moon. It was time to take out the eight planetary defense bases and bombard the surface.

“Incoming weapons fire!” called out Tanod, as his sensors lit up with incoming missiles and beams of energy.

“We’re losing ships,” reported High Commander Corr, his eyes red with anger. “Those eight planetary bases are loaded with weapons.”

“Return fire!” ordered Horrabe, leaning forward in his command chair, causing it to creak beneath his weight. “Hit the bases as well as the Human cities.”

-

The heavy weapons fire from the PDCs tore into the orbiting fleet. Ship after ship was blown apart, causing debris to fall toward the planet. Massive blasts of energy covered various Confederation ships’ energy screens as hundreds of missiles rose from the surface. Fusion energy beam fire probed the screens seeking a weakness.

Missiles from the orbiting fleet struck the surface. Terrifying mushroom clouds rose into the atmosphere of Titan. Around the eight PDCs, the ground was turned into molten magma from the heat released by hundreds of antimatter and fusion missiles. The entire moon shook. Powerful moonquakes opened up the ground into huge crevasses. Several long-dormant volcanoes erupted.

-

In the underground Command Center, a shaken Governor Blake watched in shock as city after city was annihilated in powerful blasts from antimatter weapons. “They’ll blow apart the moon!”

Colonel Edwards shook his head. “No, I doubt if they can do that. However, they are causing a lot of damage to the ecology we’ve spent years creating. Once this is over, it might be years before we can safely venture out on the surface again.”

“We’re losing so much,” said Blake, sitting down with a bowed head, not wanting to watch any more of the destruction.

“We’ll lose those PDCs,” pointed out Major Patterson. “The ground around them is being turned into molten magma, and the PDCs are sinking into it.”

“Can we evacuate them?” asked Edwards, deeply concerned. Each PDC was manned by several thousand military personnel.

Patterson shook her head. “The weapons fire is so intense that any attempt to leave would be suicidal.”

“How soon before the shields fail?”

“Not long. Several of the PDCs are now sitting on lakes of molten magma, and they’re still being struck by both fusion and antimatter missiles.”

-

Just outside the capital, the largest of the PDCs was putting up the maximum amount of resistance possible. Its missile batteries fired nonstop, its fusion energy cannons blasting away at the orbiting fleet, and the Marines in the periphery defensive stations eyed the molten magma worriedly. The heat inside grew intense, and personnel donned special PPE to protect themselves. Suddenly the entire PDC seemed to tilt, as it slid deeper into the molten magma. It was too much for the energy shield, which suddenly died. Two seconds later the PDC ceased to exist as over twenty antimatter and fusion missiles detonated, leaving a large glowing pit in the ground, which quickly filled with glowing magma.

Over the next ten minutes all the other PDCs on the moon met the same fate. As the last PDC slid beneath the magma, the battle of Titan came to an end. Over 112 antimatter missiles had been dropped on cities, smaller settlements, and mining operations. In addition another 207 fusion missiles had struck points of interest across the moon.

Already the terraformed atmosphere was turning dark as it filled with ash and smoke. The special energy shield that helped hold in the atmosphere and increase the temperature of the moon was gone, as the machinery that created that particular shield and its backups had been destroyed.

-

“What were our losses?” asked Fleet Admiral Horrabe. He knew only the massive superior firepower of his fleet had prevented the losses from being far greater than they were.

“Totals are 147 battlecruisers destroyed and another 218 damaged, plus 14 battleships destroyed and another 11 damaged.”

Horrabe’s large eyes moved to the viewscreens that showed the carnage he had showered on this inhabited moon. His review told him it was no longer capable of harboring life. “Send fleet units to the other moons of this gas giant and destroy any smaller colonies or mining operations. I want every visage of a Human presence destroyed.”

Horrabe planned on staying in the vicinity of this gas giant until his damaged ships had been repaired. He was also waiting on the report from his second force of ships that had gone to the larger gas giant. Horrabe leaned back in his command chair. The losses in destroying this moon had been far greater than he had expected, and, as a result, it might be necessary to modify his future attack plans.

-

In the underground Command Center, Colonel Edwards could feel the ground beneath the center shaking. The entire moon was wracked by moonquakes from the bombardment and the attack on the PDCs.

“How many people survived?” asked Governor Blake in a very low and shaken voice.

“We won’t know for a few days,” replied Major Patterson. “All the underground bunkers have instructions not to reveal themselves until we contact them. We don’t want the Confederation to learn of their presence or of our own.”

“We lost millions,” said Blake, his face as pale as a ghost. “How will we ever recover?”

“The terraformers can correct most of the ecological damage. As for the atmosphere and the heat, that will take longer. The equipment must be rebuilt, and we’ll bring in some water ice to melt in the atmosphere to help replace what we’ve lost. It’ll take several years. In the meantime, we may go back to living in domes until the moon is stable again.”

Governor Blake raised his gaze to look at the viewscreens. All they showed was destruction. Fires burned everywhere, and huge plumes of smoke rose upward. “What about the people who were left outside?”

Major Patterson shook her head. “If they’re not already dead, they will be in a few more hours. I’m sorry. We can do nothing more for them.”

Governor Blake closed his eyes tightly. He wished now he would have followed Admiral Reynolds’s advice to evacuate more people. At least those who could not make it safely to the underground bunkers. His belief they would ride out this attack had cost Titan millions of its citizens. He knew it would be days before they would know the exact total.

-

Admiral Reynolds let out a deep sigh. Titan was gone. He suspected there were survivors, but it would most likely be days before they could search them out.

“They bombed the entire moon,” uttered Head Councilor Drew Tristan in disbelief. “I didn’t think it would be this bad. I figured they would take out the military bases and several of the major cities. I never thought they would attempt to destroy the entire moon.”

“They’ve come here to destroy us and to make us an example of what happens to star systems that openly oppose the Confederation. What they did to Titan, I’m certain they plan on doing to the entire Solar System.”

“Millions of people dead,” said Tristan, shaking his head. “And it’ll only get worse.”

Reynolds nodded. “Ganymede is next, and its more heavily defended than Titan was, plus Rear Admiral Leeson and Second Fleet will aid in its defense.”

Tristan took a deep breath. “Let’s hope that’s enough.”

-

In the Jovian system, Lormallian Admiral Malleck nodded in satisfaction as his fleet smashed the defenses of one of the four largest moons. From the communication intercepts, this moon was called Europa. Long-range scans had indicated a number of strange aquatic life-forms living in the deep oceans of this moon.

Out of curiosity Malleck had decided not to destroy the entire moon but instead to destroy all the defensive installations as well as the main Human colony. He was also careful not to destroy the machinery that gave this moon life. Someday he might return to study the creatures in the deep oceans.

Standing in his Command Center, he gazed at the careful surgical strikes his combined fleets were making. Only the large orbiting defense station had been a problem, as he had lost three battlecruisers and a battleship destroying it. Communication intercepts had also provided the information as to what the Humans called those—ODPs.

“All primary targets have been annihilated,” reported First Officer Lorann. “All Human resistance has ceased.”

Admiral Malleck nodded in satisfaction. “Very well, we shall proceed to the primary target in this gas giant system and destroy it. I believe the inhabitants call it Ganymede.”

-

“It looks as if it’s our turn next,” reported Lieutenant Randall from his sensor console.

They had watched as the Confederation fleet had destroyed the defenses around Europa and then the main colony. They had listened as the scientists in charge of the colony had pleaded with the Confederation fleet not to destroy the colony. The scientists had gone into great detail, explaining they were only doing research and were not a danger to the Confederation. All to no avail.

Colonel Green nodded. He had been expecting that. Looking around the large Command Center, he hoped they were ready. Ganymede Central and all the defenses were at Condition One. He also took solace in the fact that Rear Admiral Leeson and Second Fleet would assist in the defense of Ganymede Central and Ganymede itself. “What’s the latest report on Titan?”

His second in command, Major Gina Nelson, shook her head. “Destroyed. We think the underground Command Center and some of the deep bunkers survived, but the moon’s a mess. It will take years to restore it to what it was.”

Green took in a deep breath. “Well, let’s make certain that doesn’t happen here.”

“Should we launch the attack interceptors?”

“No, we’ll wait until we see large numbers of damaged Confederation warships. Between our defenses and Rear Admiral Leeson’s fleet, there should be a substantial number.”

“Confederation fleet will be in combat range in twelve minutes,” reported Lieutenant Randall at Sensors.

“Contact Governor Stone, and see how the evacuation’s going.” Green knew that Ganymede had long since heeded advice to build sufficient shelters for the entire population.

-

A few minutes passed, and Lieutenant Smith turned away from his communications console. “Governor Stone reports 90 percent of the population is safely in the bunkers. Marines have taken up defensive positions on the outskirts of the cities and in the countryside. All PDCs are operational and ready for combat. Governor Stone has entered the underground Command Center beneath Ganymede City and will remain there until this is over. She also reports that the emergency atmosphere-shield generator has been moved to a safe location and will be activated once the battle is over, if the primary generator is taken out.”

Colonel Green nodded. This was a wise precaution. The shield generator maintained a near-Earth-normal atmosphere for Ganymede, as well as helped to generate sufficient heat to keep the moon warm enough for life.

-

Just outside of the Moon’s orbit, Rear Admiral Leeson waited with Second Fleet. The fleet was at Condition One, and everyone knew combat was imminent.

“Just a few more minutes,” reported Captain Newman. “Ganymede Central is at Condition One, and all defensive installations are online and ready to fire.”

Rear Admiral Leeson watched the tactical display of data coming in from Ganymede Central. His plan was to jump in directly behind the Confederation fleet and cause as much damage as possible. After that, his fleet would break apart and defend Ganymede Central and the six orbital ODPs. This would allow for the maximum amount of damage to the Confederation fleet.

“They’re entering combat range,” reported Lieutenant Stewart from the sensor console.

Leeson nodded. It was time. “Lieutenant Suarez, set the jump coordinates, as we previously discussed.”

“Coordinates set, and the fleet is tied in.”

“Very well, jump!” ordered Rear Admiral Leeson. It was time for Second Fleet to go to war.

Chapter Seventeen

Admiral Malleck blinked his eyes in surprise as Human warships appeared behind his fleet. He had expected the Humans to hold their ships back to protect their primary worlds. “Order the Zynth and the Morphenes to turn to engage the Human fleet behind us. The rest of us will continue to attack the moon and its defenses.”

The Confederation fleet quickly shifted into two formations, and almost immediately heavy weapons fire broke out.

-

“Fire!” ordered Rear Admiral Leeson, seeing what the Confederation fleet was attempting to do. He wanted to get the first punch in, before the Confederation fleets were fully settled into their new formations. He had a small opportunity to hit the Confederation fleets before they engaged his fleet.

Explosions struck the Confederation fleets, even as they turned to face Second Fleet. Second Fleet was in a wedge formation, its apex facing the enemy. Across the Confederation fleets, massive explosions tore at energy shields, causing a number to go down. Fusion energy beams flicked out, taking advantage of the downed shields to drill deep into the enemy ships, causing major damage.

Explosions blew out hull material, throwing it far into space. The beams crashed through compartments, killing Confederation personnel. Emergency hatches and bulkheads slammed shut as the damage spread. More missiles arrived, and the helpless ships were turned into molten metal from the heat of the blasts.

Then the Confederation fleets split apart, one segment facing Second Fleet and the other Ganymede. The weapons fire rapidly increased to an even greater crescendo.

-

“Activate the defensive grid. The ODPs are to take out targets of opportunity. Ganymede Central will fire upon anything that comes within range. I want the attack interceptors ready to launch upon my command,” ordered Colonel Green. His gaze moved across the multiple viewscreens and the tactical screens. There was a lot to keep track of. “Have damage control teams on standby. I want this station operational and in the fight for as long as possible.” Colonel Green had no intention of abandoning his command. He would either win this battle or die here.

-

Around Ganymede, fusion energy beam satellites opened fire, and missile platforms ripple-fired their missiles in an attempt to overload energy shields. There were 412 energy beam satellites and 63 missile platforms orbiting the large moon. In addition there were 6 powerful ODPs. Ganymede would not be a pushover, and the military was ready to defend it.

-

Weapons fire became extremely intense as both sides tried to annihilate the other. Admiral Malleck had his fleet concentrate on the satellites and the missile platforms. He instructed his ships to keep a maximum distance between them and the ODPs, until they could be assaulted with overwhelming force. He knew from sensor scans just how much firepower those deadly orbiting constructions possessed.

In the Confederation formation, a Lormallian battleship was being battered by numerous antimatter missiles from two missile platforms. Its shield grew brighter and brighter, and occasionally a dark area would appear. A fusion energy beam suddenly shot through one of the dark areas, slamming into the armored hull.

The hull grew red, and then the beam tore through the compartments and decks beneath, leaving death and destruction in its wake. The entire shield suddenly failed, and half a dozen antimatter missiles struck the hull. In a brilliant blaze of light and heat, the Lormallian battleship ceased to exist.

-

The night sky above Ganymede was full of brilliant explosions. In the underground Command Center, Governor Adriana Stone gazed at the viewscreens with rapt attention. “If this wasn’t so deadly it would be beautiful.”

“This may go on for quite some time now that Rear Admiral Leeson has committed his fleet,” commented Major Glen Bristol, in command of the underground Command Center. “We did not expect that.”

Suddenly a brilliant explosion was caught on one of the screens, dimming it automatically.

“What was that?” asked the governor.

“We got another one of their warships,” answered Major Bristol. “Probably a battlecruiser.”

“Are the defenses around Ganymede City ready?”

Major Bristol nodded his head. “The city sits inside a ring of defensive energy beam turrets, as well as missile interceptors. The Confederation won’t find it easy to destroy.”

“Has the city been fully evacuated?” Governor Stone was worried about the loss of life. Over twenty million people were on Ganymede.

“Yes, the only people still inside the capital are a few Marines going door to door, making sure everyone has left. Marines are also on the outside defensive perimeter, manning the energy turrets and the missile interceptor controls. Those Marines are in deep bunkers so should be in no immediate danger.”

Governor Stone nodded approvingly. She didn’t want to see a lot of people die. That was one of the reasons she had gone to the massive expense of building the underground bunkers. If the cities were destroyed, they could always emerge from the bunkers to rebuild. Supplies and materials had been stored away for just that purpose.

-

Rear Admiral Leeson grimaced as another one of his battlecruisers was blown apart. The fronts of both fleets seemed to be on fire from the incredible number of fusion and antimatter detonations.

“We’re taking out a lot of their ships, but we’re suffering losses as well,” reported Captain Newman. “The defense grid is also under heavy attack.” On one of the viewscreens, bright explosions indicated where satellite or missile platforms were being destroyed.

Rear Admiral Leeson knew he had to act quickly before the ODPs came under assault. “Assign twenty battlecruisers and four dreadnoughts to defend each ODP. They’re to go up and around the Confederation fleets. That should allow them to reach the ODPs intact.”

Captain Newman went to Communications to send the orders.

Leeson knew he was significantly weakening his fleet, but those ODPs had to survive for as long as possible. “All ships, tighten formation. A number of ships will soon depart for the ODPs,” Leeson announced over the fleet comm channel.

-

Admiral Malleck was taken by surprise when a large segment of the Human fleet suddenly split apart and headed for the ODPs. Before he could react, they had flown up and around his fleet and were settling into defensive positions around the large artificial constructs.

“The Humans have substantially reduced their fleet strength by making this move,” commented First Officer Lorann. “This should make them easier to destroy.

“Perhaps so,” replied Malleck. “But they have made it considerably more difficult for us to take out those six ODPs.” Malleck spent nearly a full minute examining the tactical displays and analyzing where the battle was going. He made some minor adjustments in his fleet formation to allow for heavier weapons fire on several sections of the defense grid.

-

Rear Admiral Leeson gradually pulled Second Fleet back. This forced the section of the Confederation fleet dealing with Second Fleet to increase the gap between them and the part of the fleet attacking Ganymede’s defenses.

“We’ve achieved splitting their fleet,” reported Captain Newman, as he studied one of the tactical displays.

Leeson had not been sure if this part of his plan would work or not. Now a ten-thousand-kilometer gap separated the two Confederation forces. A gap that Leeson planned on exploiting. “Contact Rear Admiral Mendoza, and tell him the zone is clear.”

“Message sent,” replied Ensign Jeannette Bower a few moments later.

It would take several minutes for his plan to be implemented, but, when it did, it should serve as a major surprise to the Confederation fleets.

-

Admiral Malleck was stunned when suddenly hundreds of red threat icons appeared between his fleet and the fleet of the Zynth and the Morphenes.

“Where did those ships come from!” he demanded, as the new Human fleet oriented itself and fired upon the rear of the Zynth-Morphene formation. The entire rear section of that fleet suddenly exploded in antimatter fire.

“The fleet defending the fourth planet is no longer there,” reported the sensor officer.

This caused Admiral Malleck great concern. These Humans were so unpredictable. He never expected them to leave one of their primary worlds open to attack by committing its defending fleet to this battle.

-

In the rear of the Zynth-Morphene fleet, battlecruisers and battleships died like moths in a flame. Zynth Admiral Laru hurriedly gave the order for part of the fleet to reverse course to face this new menace.

-

Rear Admiral Leeson watched intensely the effects of Rear Admiral Mendoza’s attack. He was destroying four Confederation warships for every one he lost. He had caught the Confederation fleet completely out of position and very vulnerable to attack. Leeson intended to push that advantage for as long as he could.

For over forty seconds Rear Admiral Mendoza hammered the rear of the enemy fleet.

“The enemy fleet has almost completed its turn,” warned Captain Newman. “Sixth Fleet is receiving more incoming fire with every passing second.”

Leeson nodded. “Tell Rear Admiral Mendoza to return to Mars. His job here is done, and it was very well accomplished.” The rear of the enemy fleet had been smashed.

Moments later on the tactical display, the green icons of Sixth Fleet vanished, as the ships made the transition into hyperspace to retreat to Mars.

“How many ships did Mendoza lose?” This was the only real concern Leeson had in calling in Rear Admiral Mendoza. Leeson dared not weaken Sixth Fleet too much, or defending Mars could become a problem.

“Thirty-two battlecruisers and six dreadnoughts.”

“What did he do to the enemy?” Leeson hoped for a far-higher number of Confederation losses, since they had been struck in the rear and out of position,

“One hundred and seventeen battlecruisers and nine battleships,” reported Newman.

“It’s nearly time for us to withdraw. Inform the ships guarding the ODPs that they are to stay and to support the ODPs for as long as they can. If the ODP they protect is destroyed, they are to retreat and to rejoin Second Fleet just outside the orbit of the Moon.”

With the attack of Sixth Fleet, the battle had turned momentarily in favor of Second Fleet. Leeson knew that wouldn’t last long. He was still greatly outnumbered.

-

Several minutes later the fleet attacking Leeson had reformed and was presenting a united front against him. “Time to go,” he said, wishing it were not true. Unfortunately his fleet just wasn’t large enough to take on what was before him and win. “Take us into hyperspace and return us to our former location just outside the orbit of the Moon.”

Moments later the ships of Second Fleet vanished as they retreated from the battle. A few ships were too heavily damaged to escape, and they fought on until the enemy destroyed them.

Ganymede Central was left to handle the defense of the moon. A defense that was rapidly being overwhelmed.

-

Admiral Malleck was not pleased. The Zynth-Morphene fleet rejoined his fleet formation, but they had already lost more ships than he had planned to lose for this entire operation. Most of the Human warships had retreated to the heavily inhabited worlds they protected. Some warships had remained around the ODPs, which concerned him. This would make them harder to destroy.

“We will divide the fleet and attack the large space station and all the ODPs at the same time. I want to end this quickly. The longer the resistance continues, the more hope these Humans have. I want to crush that hope and make them realize it is futile to challenge the Confederation.”

Besides, he had received several messages from Fleet Admiral Horrabe, demanding to know why this moon hadn’t been subdued. Admiral Malleck had not responded. Something about the Morag had always made Malleck feel uncomfortable. Not only that but he should have been made fleet admiral, not that overgrown simian.

-

Colonel Green stood in the Command Center of Ganymede Central. Most of the station had been evacuated, except for essential personnel and the two hundred Marines providing security against a boarding action.

“Enemy ships coming toward us,” reported Lieutenant Randall at Sensors.

“Captain Norse, we have ten missile platforms and twenty defensive satellites assigned to protect this station. I want those platforms emptied of missiles as rapidly as possible.” The platforms also had small crews of six. Green wished they were automated, but, with the armed defensive turrets and the multiple missiles it fired, it wasn’t practical.

“Ganymede Central, stand by to launch our attack interceptors. Inform the interceptor bases on Ganymede they will be launching shortly as well. We’ll wait until the Confederation force coming toward us is fully engaged, and then we’ll hit them with all the interceptors from Ganymede and those here on the station.”

“Will it be enough?” asked Major Nelson.

Colonel Green smiled. “Probably not, but we’ll kill a hell of a lot of those Confederation ships, maybe enough so they will pass on bombing the surface of Ganymede and engaging the PDCs.”

Green knew the odds of that were low, but there was always the possibility. He looked around the Command Center, everyone was doing their jobs and showing no fear in what they knew lay ahead of them. Green knew that, most likely sometime in the next hour or so, they would all die. He had enjoyed his military career and had hoped someday to see the Human Empire and Golan Four. It didn’t look now as if that was in the cards.

-

Admiral Malleck’s section of the fleet approached the large space station, when suddenly the missile platforms surrounding it began launching. At the same time, the station fired waves of deadly antimatter missiles as well.

The front section of his fleet vanished, as it was blown apart from the intense weapons fire. Dozens of ships disappeared under antimatter and fusion energy explosions, leaving little behind except drifting plasma clouds and a few twisted pieces of metal.

“Take out those missile platforms!” On the viewscreens, battlecruisers and even a few battleships were being torn apart from the intense missile fire.

The energy screens protecting the missile platforms were instantly covered in explosions. The energy turrets shot down many of the missiles, but too many were getting through. The pressure on the screens mounted and mounted, until they could handle no more.

Moments later the missile platforms exploded, as they were annihilated one by one until all were gone. Weapons fire now switched to the defensive satellites guarding the station, and soon those too were annihilated.

Admiral Malleck was losing control of his emotions. The power of the attack from the station and its defending satellites had been startling. Thirty-two battlecruisers and three battleships had been destroyed, and he had yet to attack the space station.

-

Colonel Green nodded in satisfaction, seeing the results of the missile strikes. “Contact all interceptor bases. They are to launch and target any damaged Confederation warship in the fleet now attacking Ganymede Central. Major Nelson, launch our interceptors.”

Switching his gaze to the viewscreens, he saw the station’s energy screen was now being struck by multiple missiles from the attacking fleet. However, Ganymede Central had been designed to stand up to such an attack and had twice the normal number of highly efficient fusion reactors to power its energy screen. It would take the Confederation fleet a while to knock it down, and, during that time, Colonel Green intended to make them pay a heavy price for their attack on the station.

-

From the surface of Ganymede, squadrons of attack interceptors rose into the air and headed toward the embattled space station. In all 637 attack interceptors left their bases and headed toward the orbital space inhabited by the large triwheeled station. All were armed with four fusion-tipped missiles.

-

Warning alarms sounded on the sensor console as a myriad of red threat icons appeared, rising from the surface of the moon.

“What are those, missiles?” demanded Malleck. It was a very large swarm.

“No, it’s the Humans small attack craft,” replied the sensor officer. “Reports indicate they are armed with fusion-tipped missiles.”

“How many craft?”

The sensor officer quickly checked his scans. “Over six hundred. The space station is launching some as well.”

“All ships will target the small attack craft as soon as they come within range. I want them annihilated before they can fire their fusion missiles on our fleet.”

“Our weapons turrets are not designed to engage such small warcraft,” said First Officer Lorann. “We will have trouble locking on.”

“Do what we have to! We are losing too many ships.”

If they kept losing ships like this, it would make their primary mission impossible to accomplish. They would not have the fleet units to take out the main Human population centers in this system. Admiral Malleck shuddered to think what Fleet Admiral Horrabe would say. Nothing was worse than an angry Morag.

-

Just as the attack interceptors from Ganymede reached orbit and began making their attack runs, a surprising and unexpected development came. Second Fleet jumped back in and took up a defensive position around the space station. As soon as the ships were in place, they launched every missile they had in their tubes toward the Confederation fleet.

-

“Inform the interceptors to go in as soon as our missile attack ceases,” ordered Rear Admiral Leeson. He wanted to give them as much covering fire as possible.

From his fleet’s safe position near the Earth’s moon, he had watched the Confederation split their fleet to attack the space station and the ODPs. It gave him an opportunity to inflict some major losses on the enemy, particularly in conjunction with the attack of the interceptors. An opportunity he couldn’t help but take advantage of. He hadn’t even informed Admiral Reynolds of his plan. Leeson would worry about the consequences later.

-

Admiral Malleck was forced to switch his fire from the incoming attack craft to the Human fleet that had suddenly appeared in front of him. Once more the front section of his fleet was under heavy attack. Between the space station and the Human fleet, the firepower was just about even.

For several long minutes the two fleets slugged it out with heavy losses on both sides. Then suddenly the Human fleet stopped firing and pulled back toward the space station. Malleck was confused at the strategy, until hundreds of attack craft entered his fleet formation, and fusion-tipped missiles began hitting his damaged ships. Ship after ship was blown apart in the attack, as it was nearly impossible to fire on the swiftly dodging vessels. They flew complicated attack patterns, weaving back and forth, making them almost impossible to hit without the weapons fire striking another Confederation ship.

“Pull us back!” Malleck ordered, as he saw his ship losses mounting. He never saw the full squadron of attack interceptors whose commander had figured out his ship was the flagship of the fleet. Eighty fusion missiles exploded against Malleck’s ship’s energy shield, with three of them penetrating the weakened parts of the ship’s screen.

In three brilliant flashes of novalike light, the Lormallian flagship blew apart, with Admiral Malleck never knowing what happened. One moment he was giving orders to withdraw, the next a brilliant flash of burning light swept through his Command Center as his flagship ceased to be.

-

Rear Admiral Leeson saw the sudden breakdown in organization of the Confederation fleet. “We must have taken out the flagship. All ships press forward and hit them as hard as we can. Interceptors are to return to the space station to be rearmed.”

Leeson gazed at the viewscreen, which revealed the now-shattered formation of the Confederation fleet. The loss of their flagship had momentarily caused major confusion in the enemy ranks. “As soon as the interceptors are rearmed, they are to launch and to pick out targets of opportunity.” Leeson intended to take full advantage of the enemy’s confusion and annihilate as many of the Confederation’s warships as possible.

“Helm, take us in, and find us a battleship to destroy!”

-

Admiral Reynolds watched everything from Pallas. He was stunned when Rear Admiral Leeson had jumped his fleet back in to engage the Confederation fleet attacking Ganymede Central.

“Should we order Leeson back?” asked Colonel Bryson, as she studied the tactical displays, as well as the viewscreens showing the battles raging around Ganymede.

“No, Leeson spotted a weakness and took advantage of it. Get me Admiral Everett. I’ll order Seventh Fleet to reinforce Rear Admiral Leeson. We just might have a real chance of saving Ganymede Central and most of Ganymede itself.”

Colonel Williams looked concerned. “That will leave Pallas wide open to attack.”

“Perhaps,” replied Reynolds. “But we have the heaviest defenses in the Solar System. Perhaps we can lure the Confederation fleets to attack us here, believing, with our defending fleet gone, they can take us out.”

“A trap,” said Williams, realizing what Reynolds suggested. “Do you think it will work?”

“We’ll find out,” Reynolds replied. “Now, let’s get Rear Admiral Everett on the move. Leeson can use his ships.”

A few moments later, Reynolds’s gaze moved to the tactical display of the defenses around Earth and Rear Admiral Collison’s fleet. Another idea entered his mind. Perhaps he could give Rear Admiral Leeson an even bigger advantage.

-

Rear Admiral Leeson was surprised when Rear Admiral Everett and Seventh Fleet jumped in.

“Admiral Reynolds sent me. He wants to try to keep Ganymede Central intact,” Everett informed Leeson. “It looks as if you can use some assistance.”

Leeson smiled. He now had twenty more dreadnoughts and two hundred more battlecruisers. “Attack the left flank of the Confederation fleet. They are still reorganizing from losing their flagship and the attack interceptor assault.”

Suddenly four more large green icons appeared near Ganymede Central.

“Admiral, those are Fourth Fleet’s battlecarriers,” reported Captain Newman in surprise. “Admiral Reynolds must be making an all-out attempt to protect Ganymede.”

Leeson nodded as hundreds of interceptors launched from the four carriers. He knew each one held 160. Their interceptor squadrons had been increased to the maximum for this expected battle with the Confederation.

“Contact all four of those battlecarriers. I want those interceptors to hit the right flank of the Confederation fleet. We’ll attempt to trounce the center. As soon as more interceptors are armed by the space station, vector them to the right side as well. Speaking of the carriers, we can use them to rearm some of those interceptors waiting to land on the station.”

The battle quickly took on a new phase. With the heavy weapons from the space station, Second Fleet, and Seventh Fleet combined, the advantage turned toward the Humans. The small attack interceptors swooped in once more and destroyed any heavily damaged Confederation vessel not capable of defending itself.

Once their attack runs were finished, the interceptors quickly returned to the shipyard and the battlecarriers to be rearmed. Space was becoming littered with wreckage from destroyed warships, most of them from the Confederation.

-

Not all of the battle was going the Humans’ way. The Confederation had managed to destroy two of the ODPs and the ships protecting them. Once that was done, the surface of Ganymede could be bombarded with fusion and antimatter missiles. However, that brought the Confederation fleets into range of the PDCs, which inflicted heavy losses on the orbiting enemy vessels. From the surface of Ganymede, swarms of missiles and hundreds of fusion energy beams struck, inflicting major losses on the Confederation ships.

-

Zynth Admiral Laru was now the ranking admiral in the Confederation fleet attacking Ganymede. So far the fleet had managed to destroy over 40 percent of the cities on the moon below them. A third ODP was blown apart, and one of the PDCs had just vanished beneath an antimatter strike.

Several attempts had been made to strike the capital city with fusion and antimatter missiles, but the moon’s largest PDC was just outside the capital, and the capital itself sat inside a ring of heavy defenses.

“We can take this moon, but the losses will be staggering,” Laru said to his second in command. “Instead I believe we should withdraw and attack one of the weaker moons and all the mining installations our probes found around this gas giant. Once that has been accomplished, we will fall back to the large moon where Fleet Admiral Horrabe awaits. This will allow us to retain the major portion of our fleet, though our losses above this moon have been substantial.”

The second in command nodded in agreement. “We have caused substantial damage to the defenses around this moon and the Human fleets that have rallied to its defense. We have also bombarded a large number of their cities.”

Laru didn’t hesitate. The Zynth were not known for being indecisive. “Send the orders. We attack one of the other moons and the mining installations. We leave immediately.”

Above Ganymede, the mixed Confederation fleets disengaged and entered hyperspace. Within twenty minutes all the ships were gone, except a few with damaged hyperdrives that could not escape. These were dealt with, using massive attack interceptor strikes.

-

Rear Admiral Leeson looked at the tactical displays and viewscreens in disbelief. They had forced the Confederation fleets to retreat from Ganymede. Millions of lives had been saved! “We will remain where we are for the time being to see if they return. In the meantime, have all ships begin repairs. Contact Ganymede Central and see if we can use their repair bays.”

Leeson leaned back in his command chair. He knew many Confederation ships were still out there, and the battle was a long way from over. At least this part of the battle was finished for the time being.

-

Colonel Green looked at Major Gina Nelson. He could not believe they were still alive. “We made it!”

“Thanks to Rear Admiral Leeson and the interceptors. We must double the number of interceptors we have stationed on Ganymede in the future.”

Colonel Green nodded. He studied the main viewscreen that showed the capital. It was still intact, as were several more of the moon’s major cities. At least when the people came out of the bunkers, they would have someplace to go, and, with what survived of their infrastructure, rebuilding would be easier. “Contact the Command Bunker beneath the capital. We need our crew brought back onboard. We have some warships to repair.”

Colonel Green leaned back in his command chair. They would live to fight another day, and he knew there were still battles to be fought in the future. For now, he would savor this victory and the feeling of still being alive.

Chapter Eighteen

Fleet Admiral Horrabe watched in anger as the fleets he had sent to destroy the Human presence on the moons of the large gas giant returned. Only 52 percent of the fleet was still combat capable. The other units had either been destroyed or scuttled. No doubt this was the result of incompetence in the command structure of the fleet.

“They only partially accomplished their mission,” reported High Commander Corr. “The two primary moons of the gas giant are still intact, though the largest and most heavily populated one did sustain some damage. All the other moons, the smaller moons where small colonies or mining operations had been, were cleansed of their Human presence.”

“At the cost of nearly two thousand of our warships,” replied Horrabe. “Admiral Malleck was a fool! He should never have split his fleet and should have dealt with one problem at a time. By splitting his fleet, he weakened it, making the different parts vulnerable to attack.”

High Commander Corr stood absolutely still. His telepathy allowed him to sense the rage inside his admiral. It was best to stand quietly until that rage died down.

Fleet Admiral Horrabe gestured toward a large holographic tactical display of the entire Human system. “As you can see, the fleets that came to the aid of the Human moon remain there. It has resulted in a weakness in two key areas of their system. One is the large asteroid, which we believe is a massive manufacturing base. The other is their home planet. We must attack one, but I don’t believe we have the forces to attack both. What would you do?”

Corr was surprised to be asked his opinion. “The asteroid. It’s obviously a massive manufacturing base. The power readings from our sensor scans indicate it may be the primary manufacturing facility for spacecraft and other weapons of war in this system. If we destroy it, the result might be an end to their effort to free the former Human Empire, as it will take them years to rebuild.”

“It is a tempting target,” admitted Fleet Admiral Horrabe. “Too tempting. I believe it is a trap. Whoever is in command of the Human forces in this system has purposely left us an easy target. I suspect, if we attack, we will find out it is not such an easy target as it looks, and they will close the trap on our fleet.”

“Then we attack Earth?”

Horrabe nodded his large head. “Yes, we can’t destroy all the Humans and their weapons of war in this system. It’s too heavily defended. All we can hope to do is cause sufficient damage to their war machine to ensure that, by the time they repair it, we will have conquered all the Human Empire. We can then isolate this world. It is far from the Empire and the Confederation. At that time we can offer them a peace treaty. They stay out of our realm of interest, and we will stay out of theirs. After all, there is very little of value in the Bacchus Region. They can have it, as long as they stay away from the Empire and the Confederation.”

“Will the Great Council agree to this?”

Horrabe nodded. “Yes, Councilor Damora controls the council. They will agree to whatever we want. What I’m proposing is a path to victory and to the continued expansion of the Confederation.”

“The Confederation must expand if we want to someday control all of this galaxy.”

“Contact Admiral Laru and inform him that we will stay here for twenty hours, while repairs are made to his fleet. At the end of that time, we will attack Earth. It is time we brought this mission to an end.”

-

Admiral Reynolds was in the Command Center on Pallas, listening as the losses were reported. “Everything on Titan is gone, as well as most of its population,” reported Colonel Williams. “We did receive a brief encrypted message from the Titan Command Center, and it’s still intact. They believe a few underground bunkers are as well. They’ll need massive assistance once the Confederation ships leave. The moon’s temperature is dropping, and the atmosphere is contaminated.”

“What are the Confederation ships doing?” asked Reynolds. He hated seeing all the years of work on Titan being wiped out.

“They’re still in orbit over Titan. They’ve been joined by the ships that attacked Ganymede and the other moons of Jupiter.”

Reynolds was almost afraid to ask. “What were our losses there?”

Williams hesitated as she looked at several printouts. “All Europa’s defenses have been destroyed, and we estimate over 80 percent of the population has been lost. There has been no radio contact with anyone on the surface. Several ships from Ganymede are currently on the way to see what they can find. Callisto survived intact.

“After what happened at Ganymede, the Confederation fleet avoided it. Its defenses are still intact as well as its cities. Io is a total loss. All its defenses have been destroyed, and we believe only a few thousand survived. Rescue efforts from Callisto are already underway. All the small mining colonies and settlements on the smaller moons have been destroyed. Rescue ships from both Ganymede and Callisto are searching through the rubble.”

“What’s the condition of Ganymede’s defenses?” Reynolds knew they had been hit hard toward the end.

“Not good,” answered Williams. “They lost three of their ODPs and two of the PDCs.”

“What about their attack interceptors?” Reynolds was surprised at how well the small interceptors did.

Williams shuffled through several printouts until she found the one she wanted. “One hundred and seven of the ones based on Ganymede survived. Of the 640 launched by the four battlecarriers, 287 of them survived. We did manage to rescue nearly 32 percent of the crews who ejected.”

“What about our fleets?” Reynolds was greatly concerned about fleet losses, as the Confederation still had a large fleet over Titan that must be dealt with.

Williams shuffled through the sheaf of printouts she held until she found the one she wanted. “Sixth Fleet lost 32 battlecruisers and 6 dreadnoughts. Other ships were damaged but are currently being repaired in the shipyards over Mars. Second Fleet took the biggest losses. From the latest reports Rear Admiral Leeson lost 27 dreadnoughts and 218 battlecruisers. His damaged ships have either returned to the shipyards above Earth or are being repaired at Ganymede Central.”

“Have the four carriers return to Earth immediately and pick up more interceptors,” ordered Reynolds. “Once that’s been done, have them return to Ganymede. Inform Rear Admiral Leeson that he’s to return to his previous location near the Moon. Rear Admiral Everett and Seventh Fleet are to remain at Ganymede.”

Colonel Bryson walked over from where she stood, examining the large holographic tactical display of an expanded view of the space around Titan. “Still want them to attack us here?”

Reynolds nodded. “That’s what I’m hoping. The Confederation lost over two thousand warships trying to take out Ganymede. While they caused a lot of damage to the Jovian system, with Ganymede and Callisto surviving, it’s still somewhat intact.”

“Not much of a defense grid is left around Ganymede,” pointed out Colonel Bryson.

“True,” Reynolds said, “but still three ODPs are in orbit, plus seven of the PDCs survived. Not only that but Ganymede Central is still intact. When you add in the four battlecarriers and Rear Admiral Everett’s fleet, the Confederation might be hesitant about attacking them again and suffering more losses. Particularly with their primary targets still untouched.”

“You mean, us, Mars, the Moon, and Earth,” Bryson stated.

Reynolds nodded. “We have the smallest space to defend, and our defenses are more concentrated. That’s why I’ve reassigned Rear Admiral Everett’s fleet to Ganymede.”

“What if they don’t attack us?” asked Williams. She looked at the tactical display of the Confederation fleet still sitting above Titan.

“Then we’re in trouble. If they attack anywhere else, we could lose a lot of people and valuable infrastructure that we need for this war long-term.” Reynolds knew this was a possibility. They had never fought the Morag before, and no Morag ships had gone to the Jovian system. With a deep sigh, he turned his attention to the holographic display. All they could do was wait.

-

Rear Admiral Leeson was busy having all his ships of Second Fleet repaired, including his flagship, the dreadnought Titan. A number still were in the shipyards orbiting Earth and the Moon. These ships were just being made combat ready. Some of the damage would have to wait to be repaired.

“How long before they come here?” asked Captain Newman. He watched the tactical display of the Confederation fleet still in orbit over the Saturn moon Titan.

Leeson stood and then walked closer to the display. “They’re repairing their ships. I would expect we have no more than ten hours.”

“Here or Pallas?”

Taking in a deep breath, Leeson replied. “Here. It’s what I would do if I were the Morag admiral. They came to either destroy our system or to seriously damage our ability to make war. They can’t do that without attacking Earth. Admiral Reynolds is hoping they’ll attack Pallas, but I think we’ll be the target.”

“Is that why you sent Linda Martin and Alicia Morr to General Weston’s shipyard, Alpha One?”

Leeson nodded. “We’ll be badly outnumbered. Those two know more about AIs than anyone else in our system. It’s essential the two software experts survive, and that shipyard is the most heavily armed and defended place we have, next to Pallas.”

Captain Newman nodded his agreement. “If we only have ten hours, then I suggest we have our crews get as much rest as possible, and that includes us.”

Leeson forced a smile. “I guess I could use a few hours sleep myself. It’s not good to use stimulants to stay awake for too long.”

“I’ll have the third watch come to the Command Center. We’ll need everyone else when this goes down.”

-

On Gateway One, Earth Imperial Colonel Loren Henderson had made sure all nonessential crew were off the station. In their place, he had nearly three hundred Marines. Many of the Marines had been assigned to damage control teams.

“Ganymede Central survived,” said Major Patricia Marcus, a Pallas Imperial. “We’ll have all the Earth’s and the Moon’s attack interceptors, plus Rear Admiral Leeson’s fleet and Rear Admiral Collison’s fleet. Surely that’s enough to protect the station.”

“I wouldn’t bet on it,” replied Henderson. “The Morag were not involved at Ganymede, but they were at Titan.”

Major Marcus did not reply. She had seen some of the video sent from the few surviving orbiting satellites above Titan. The moon was now a desolate wasteland. She did not see how anyone could possibly have survived there.

“Double the attack interceptor patrols we have out. I want them ready as soon as the Confederation fleet makes an appearance.”

Looking around the Command Center, Henderson saw everyone busily carrying out their orders. All shipping had been diverted to low Earth orbit beneath the defense grid and out of the line of fire of the ground-based PDCs. A few of the pilots of those ships were complaining about their orbit orders.

“Colonel, I have Brett Newcomb on the comm,” reported the communications officer.

Henderson nodded. “Transfer the call to my office.” Henderson immediately turned command over to Major Marcus and went into his personal office, right next to the Command Center. Sitting at his desk, he activated his comm unit. “Brett, how are you?”

“I’m fine, but I’m worried about you. Gateway One is bound to be a primary target.”

“We’re heavily fortified here at the space station. We’ll get by.”

Brett was quiet for a moment. “I hope you’re right. At least Andrew is safe from all of this.”

Loren laughed. “A Royal. Who would have ever guessed?”

“I’ve already made arrangements for his parents to be in one of our deeper underground bunkers. While his mother has abdicated her role, in my mind she is still a Royal and needs to be protected. I would like to see Andrew in the Imperial Palace,” added Brett. “Just wait until Kala gets there. It will be highly amusing.”

“She should be there by now,” replied Loren. “Where will you be when the Confederation fleet attacks?”

“The Earth Imperial Council will be in its own underground bunker. We have tie-ins to all the military channels, as well as most of the orbiting satellites. We’ll see what’s happening as it occurs.”

Loren was quiet for a moment and then spoke. “Brett, if anything happens, and I don’t make it through this, I don’t regret anything. I’ve lived a good life, and being in command of Gateway One has been very exciting. I wouldn’t change anything.”

“You’ll get through this,” responded Brett. “When this is over, you should come down to Earth. I know of an English pub you would really like.”

Loren laughed. “I knew you had been traveling a lot. If I survive this, I’ll take you up on your offer.”

The two talked for a few more minutes before disconnecting the comm, and then Loren returned to the Command Center. A lot of work remained to be done before the expected Confederation attack.

-

Fleet Admiral Horrabe was satisfied with the progress being made to repair the fleet units damaged in the battles above Titan and at the large gas giant Ganymede. In eight more hours his fleet would be ready. This time he would not be splitting up the fleet, though he had assigned Admiral Laru and the Zynth to protect the rear of the Confederation fleet. He would not let the Humans split the main fleet as they had Admiral Malleck’s.

Looking at one of the main viewscreens, he saw a Zang battleship with several jagged holes in its side. Work crews were outside on the hull, smoothing out the ragged edges so a large patch could be installed to cover the damage. Intermittent flashes of bright light indicated fusion cutting torches were used to trim off the edges of the hole. The Zang admiral had promised that all of his ships would be fully combat capable when it was time for the attack. Horrabe had used his telepathy to encourage the Zang admiral to make sure this happened.

“The fleet will be ready,” Horrabe said to High Commander Corr, who stood next to him. “We will target the large space station between Earth and its moon. That will prevent it from launching attacks when we move to attack Earth itself.”

“When do we attack?”

“In eight hours. Make sure all ships know of our target. We will not suffer the same errors that Admiral Malleck made when he attacked the gas giant system. If necessary, I will take control of all the admirals’ minds to ensure our objectives are met.”

High Commander Corr nodded. He knew that, for a Morag, the fleet admiral’s telepathic abilities were very powerful, one of the highest ratings of any Morag, except for those on the High Council.

-

On Earth, preparations for the expected attack were well underway. Hundreds of deep underground bunkers across the planet were filling with people considered essential personnel. If the worst happened, these people would be the beginning of a new civilization.

Around major cities, all highways had been blocked by the military. It had long been determined that an evacuation of the major cities would cause a tremendous loss of life. It was better for the civilian population to stay in their homes and to take what cover they could.

General Weston, in charge of Alpha One, the main shipyard, and Earth’s other military commanders had set up as powerful a defense as possible for the planet itself. In his mind, Weston reviewed what they had done, hoping it was enough.

On the ground, around most of the major cities, were energy turrets and interceptor missile batteries. Also on the surface of the Earth were eighty PDCs, all armed with missile tubes and fusion energy projectors. Additionally seven thousand attack interceptors were based on the planet. So Earth itself was very heavily defended in case of any enemy landings but also to deter any orbital attack.

In space, the orbital defense grid protecting Earth consisted of two thousand small satellites armed with fusion energy beams, capable of taking out any inbound missile. In addition, two hundred large missile platforms were protected by their own energy turrets. Also forty-five large ODPs, were armed with missile tubes, as well as fusion energy beam turrets.

Three massive military shipyards were in Earth orbit, all protected by energy turrets, missile tubes, and a powerful energy shield. Six additional ODPs were in close orbit to the main shipyard, Alpha One, with two hundred defensive satellites and forty missile platforms. There were two slightly smaller civilian shipyards with massive defenses around them as well, in their own orbits around the planet.

-

Added to all that was Gateway One, which was nearer to the Moon. Two large docking ports were attached to the station where an Imperial cargo ship or a passenger liner could dock and be fully enclosed. The station was protected by ten heavy missile launchers, capable of launching eight antimatter missiles at any target that came within ten thousand kilometers of the station. The station was protected by an energy shield as well as multiple energy turrets.

The attack interceptor platform was next to the station and contained 120 interceptors. The interceptor platform was protected by energy turrets, defensive missiles, as well as an energy screen. Six ODPs orbited the space station, adding to its already massive firepower. Another 110 defensive satellites and 22 missile platforms surrounded both Gateway One and the interceptor launch facility.

-

Rear Admiral Collison and his Fourth Fleet were just outside the orbit of the shipyards. Collison currently had the largest fleet in the Solar System, consisting of 52 dreadnoughts and 612 battlecruisers.

Onboard the primary shipyard, Admiral Aleck Weston, after reviewing all the defenses, contacted Admiral Reynolds on Pallas. “I think it’s Earth.”

Reynolds voice came back. “I’m afraid you may be right. Our military strategists here say it would make more sense for the Confederation to strike at Earth rather than Pallas, though we’ve left them what looks like a wide-open target. However, Earth was their ultimate target and they’ve incurred more losses than expected, I’m sure. So why not skip Pallas and jump right to Earth?”

“We’ve evacuated all the nonessential personnel from all the shipyards, including Gateway One. All we can do now is wait.”

“We must win this battle,” said Reynolds. “I’ll keep Seventh Fleet at Ganymede because their defenses on that moon have been hammered, particularly their defense grid. However, once we know for certain it’ll be Earth, I’ll send Admiral Mendoza to assist Rear Admiral Leeson. That will bring Second Fleet back up to full strength. If the Confederation makes an attempt at Mars while Mendoza is away, the planet’s defenses should hold them back until we can send our fleets.”

“I wish we had more ships we could send,” replied Reynolds. “But we’ve taken everything out of stasis.”

“We have some powerful defenses at Earth that the Confederation must get around to attack us,” said Weston. “After what happened to them at Ganymede, I’m pretty confident we can keep them away from the planet.”

“I hope so because just one or two antimatter missiles striking the surface could cause a tremendous loss in life.”

“Let’s hope that doesn’t happen.”

The two talked for nearly twenty more minutes. In the end both agreed they had done everything they could to prepare for the coming attack, given their limited information on the Morag and their limited time frame to build up the Human fleets and other defenses.

-

On Golan Four, Layla had returned to the underground Command Center beneath the capital. This time Krista and Andrew were with her. Stepping inside, she found Chancellor Stein and Fleet Admiral Marloo standing with a large group of officers. General Gantts was at a large hologram of the Solar System, studying it with several other officers.

“What’s the latest?” asked Layla, as they all turned toward her. She was supposed to be called if any more attacks had been launched, but everything had been quiet for nearly a day.

“We think the Confederation fleet is making repairs,” replied Fleet Admiral Marloo. “An attack could come at any moment.”

Layla now asked the question she had been dreading. “What have been the losses so far?” She knew Titan had been hit hard, as well as some of the Jovian moons.

“Civilian casualties are estimated at close to ten million. Earth won’t know for sure until they can check the deep bunkers on Titan. They’ve also lost around three hundred warships.”

“What about the Confederation fleets?” Layla knew the ones that had attacked Ganymede had been hit hard by Rear Admiral Leeson.

One of the other officers standing next to Fleet Admiral Marloo checked a printout she held. “A little over two thousand warships. However the Morag portion of the fleet is still intact, and we believe it’s the most dangerous.”

Suddenly an alarm sounded, and one of the communications officers hurried over. “We just received this from Pallas. The entire Confederation fleet has entered hyperspace and is on a direct course for Earth.”

Fleet Admiral Marloo looked at the High Princess. “With the slight time lag we have in communications between us and Earth, that means the Confederation fleet is already there. The battle for Earth has begun.”

Layla took a deep steadying breath. The most important battle of the war was starting. If Earth lost, it was doubtful the new fledging Human Empire could survive. She looked at Krista and Andrew. “We’ll be staying here until this is over. This is a battle Earth must win.”

“They will,” said Andrew. “I’ve seen those defenses. They will crush the Confederation fleet.”

Layla nodded. “Let’s just hope you’re right. The future of our Empire depends on what happens at Earth.”

Layla knew the next few hours would be the most intense and worrisome since she and Krista had escaped from Golan Four, when the Druins invaded some one thousand years before.

Taking a deep breath, she turned her attention to Earth and the battle now taking place.

Chapter Nineteen

Alarms sounded on Pallas, Earth, the Moon, and all the shipyards and space stations.

Admiral Reynolds’s eyes opened wide when he saw the red threat icons appearing around Gateway One. “This is bad.”

“Gateway One can’t hold back that many ships,” said Colonel Bryson. “What will we do?”

“Contact Rear Admiral Mendoza. He’ll go to Rear Admiral Leeson’s position and turn command of his fleet over to him. Mendoza will act as Leeson’s second in command for the rest of this battle.”

Colonel Williams looked at Admiral Reynolds. “Is there anything we can to do help?”

Reynolds shook his head. “No, I’m afraid not. All we can do is watch and hope this ends well.” Reynolds’s gaze was drawn to the enlarged hologram of Gateway One and its surrounding space. He wished Loren Henderson wasn’t on the station, but Loren had always wanted a command, and Gateway One was his dream job.

-

Colonel Loren Henderson looked at the tactical displays. Gateway One was surrounded by red threat icons. Glancing at the viewscreens, he saw Confederation warships from all seven of the Confederation races.

“Energy shield has been activated on both Gateway One and the attack interceptor facility,” reported Lieutenant Justin from Tactical. “Enemy ships are entering engagement range of the outer defense ring.” This included the six ODPs and the defensive satellites and missile platforms.

“Fire!” ordered Loren. No point in waiting for them to fire. “Fire station weapons as soon as we can get some good locks. Have all damage control parties stand by.”

The Condition One alarms sounded, and red lights flashed. Colonel Henderson looked around. He felt a slight vibration as an antimatter warhead detonated against the station’s energy screen.

The tactical team led by Lieutenant Justin were at their consoles busily blasting away at the enemy. On one of the viewscreens, a Morphene battleship came apart. Energy beams continued to drill into it until it was nothing more than a lifeless hulk. A fusion-tipped missile exploded in the center of the ship, tearing it apart.

-

Fleet Admiral Horrabe was pleased with his fleet actions. His flagship hung back, but his mind roamed through his admirals’ brains. Horrabe gave them direct mental orders, which they then carried out, thinking the thoughts were their own.

Horrabe ordered the fleet to concentrate on the missile platforms and the ODPs. Those would be annihilated first, and then they would move in on the space station and the other facility next to it. Horrabe had nearly six thousand warships, and he doubted that even the Humans ODPs could last long against that kind of firepower.

The Confederation fleet had encircled the station and its defenses. The energy screens of the six ODPs were covered in constant antimatter explosions. The number of warships involved in the attack caused the shields to radiate higher and higher in the visible light spectrum. Suddenly the shield on one of the ODPs failed, and the platform blew apart in a massive series of explosions, sending debris flying across space. Some of the debris slammed into the energy shield protecting Gateway One but failed to penetrate.

-

Admiral Reynolds watched the battle for Gateway One over numerous viewscreens. He felt sick at what he saw. He knew, unless a miracle arrived, the space station could not survive this massive attack of Confederation warships.

“Rear Admiral Mendoza has rendezvoused with Rear Admiral Leeson and turned over his fleet. Leeson wants permission to jump in and to attack the Confederation fleet.”

Reynolds let out a deep sigh. “Does he have a suggestion as to how he can do that and not sacrifice his fleet in the battle? He will be outnumbered ten to one.”

“He wants Gateway One to launch its interceptors, and he wants Luna City to do the same. He will attack along with them and attempt to drive a hole in the attacking Confederation fleet, taking some of the pressure off Gateway One.”

Reynolds looked at the battle raging around the station. He shook his head. “That’s suicide. Inform Rear Admiral Leeson he has my permission to attack, but, if he loses 20 percent of his fleet, he is to withdraw to the Moon and aid in its defense. As much as I hate to say it, this battle is about a lot more than just Gateway One.”

As the message was sent, Colonel Bryson looked at Admiral Reynolds. “Should I inform Gateway to stand by to launch their interceptors?”

“Yes, and those on the Moon too. Contact Colonel Mills. Tell him to get all four hundred of his interceptors up. Rear Admiral Leeson will need them shortly.” Admiral Reynolds took a deep breath. The battle was about to get much more intense and much more serious. He suspected it would shortly encompass the entire Earth-Moon system.

-

Colonel Henderson watched helplessly as another one of his ODPs was blown apart. Already he had lost nearly half of his missile platforms. The rest were emptying their missile stores as quickly as possible. On the viewscreens, he saw dozens of destroyed Confederation warships. The station now shook constantly from antimatter impacts to its energy shield. Loren knew, from Earth, Gateway One would now be the brightest object in the night sky from all the energy being released against its energy shield.

“Message from Admiral Reynolds,” reported Ensign Amanda Duvall at Communications. “We’re to launch all our interceptors. Luna City is launching all theirs as well. Rear Admiral Leeson will attack the Confederation fleet shortly.”

“I don’t know how much he can do,” said Pallas Imperial Major Marcus. “The numbers won’t be on his side.”

Loren studied the tactical display. “Contact the attack interceptor facility and tell them to stand by to launch their interceptors. We’ll send them out when Rear Admiral Leeson arrives and when the interceptors from the Moon get here. If we send them out now, they’ll be picked off from all the weapons fire.”

The station suddenly shook violently, and several red lights appeared on the damage control console.

“We’re being shaken apart,” said Major Marcus worriedly. “We can’t handle this much longer.”

-

Rear Admiral Leeson had a simple plan. He would hit the Confederation fleet in one section and take some of the pressure off Gateway One. The station had a very powerful energy shield. If he could reduce some of the weapons fire striking it, the station just might survive.

“Standby to initiate hyperspace jump,” he ordered. Around his flagship, the Titan, were hundreds of friendly green icons. His fleet was back up to full strength, plus some, with the addition of Rear Admiral Mendoza’s ships.

“All ships are locked into navigation,” reported Lieutenant Suarez.

Leeson nodded. “Jump!” The fleet was already at Condition One. Now it was time to return to the war.

-

Second Fleet appeared directly behind the Confederation fleet between them and the Moon. As soon as Luna City detected the arrival of the fleet, its interceptors launched and headed toward the battle.

Second Fleet fired upon exiting hyperspace, lighting up the rear of the Confederation formation. Almost instantly a section of the Confederation fleet detached from the main battle and turned to face the Human warships.

-

“They were expecting us,” said Captain Newman, surprised.

Leeson shook his head. “It’s the Morag admiral. He was ready for us. He assigned one of his fleets to intercept us if we tried to interfere, like we did around Ganymede.”

“The interceptor facility is launching!” called out the sensor officer. “They’re being picked off as soon as they emerge from the energy shield! The weapons fire is just too intense.”

Leeson saw that Lieutenant Marvin Stewart was correct. He doubted if any of the facilities interceptors would actually make it into the battle.

On the viewscreens, the interceptors were exploding in bright fireballs as soon as they cleared the energy screen. Counting the explosions, Leeson was up to forty when the launches stopped.

“It’s suicide for them to attempt to launch,” said Captain Newman. “The weapons fire is just too heavy.”

On the tactical display, Leeson saw the interceptors from the Moon had joined his fleet. “We’ll engage the portion of the enemy fleet coming toward us. Interceptors are to attack targets of opportunity that have been damaged. Once they’ve expended their missiles, they are to return to the Moon.” Leeson had his fleet adjust its course slightly, so they could meet the incoming Confederation force head-on.

“How many ships are we facing?”

“Seven hundred and twelve,” reported Lieutenant Stewart.

“Wedge formation and stand by to engage.”

Captain Newman hurriedly passed on the order as Second Fleet and its Sixth Fleet units quickly changed formations.

“Enemy fleet is firing!”

“Return fire!” ordered Rear Admiral Leeson, leaning forward in his command chair. “Dreadnoughts are to target their battleships, and battlecruisers are to hit enemy battlecruisers.”

-

In space, heavy weapons fire broke out between the two forces. Antimatter and fusion explosions crawled over energy screens, releasing tremendous amounts of destructive energy. Fusion energy beams probed the battered screens, seeking a weakness. Interceptor pilots watched intently, waiting for the opportunity to attack damaged enemy warships.

In both fleets, energy screens were overwhelmed and knocked down. When that happened, either fusion beams would riddle the helpless vessel or antimatter and fusion missiles would annihilate the ship completely. Massive explosions of light in both fleets marked where warships were being destroyed.

-

“Interceptors are engaging,” reported Lieutenant Stewart.

On the viewscreens, several interceptor squadrons could be seen heading toward damaged enemy ships.

“Those are Zynth warships we’re facing,” Captain Newman informed the admiral.

“I recognize them,” replied Leeson. “Keep targeting them. Perhaps we can drive them back into the rest of the Confederation fleet.”

“Fleet losses are at 6 percent and climbing rapidly,” added Newman, meeting Leeson’s glance. “We have orders to withdraw when our losses reach 20 percent.”

Rear Admiral Leeson nodded. “Keep an eye on it. Let me know when we get up to 18 percent. We’ll reevaluate everything then.”

Captain Newman nodded. He wasn’t sure the admiral would actually withdraw once he had lost 20 percent of the fleet. They really wanted to rescue Gateway One. They both knew many people on that station and had for a very long time.

-

Fleet Admiral Horrabe nodded his head in satisfaction. Admiral Laru had successfully intercepted the inbound Human fleet. The two were now weighed down in heavy combat, nearly equally matched. Moving his large eyes to the main viewscreen, Horrabe saw the last of the defending ODPs explode in a massive fireball as four antimatter missiles slammed into its hull after the ODP’s energy shield had failed.

“Order Admiral Zindor to reinforce Admiral Laru. That will give them a more than two-to-one advantage in ships over the Humans.” Admiral Zindor was in command of the Zang ships in the Confederation fleet.

As the Zang ships pulled back, Fleet Admiral Horrabe sent several mental commands to the Zang admiral, informing him exactly what Horrabe wanted done. As always Admiral Zindor would think these were his own thoughts.

“We have now eliminated most of the missile platforms,” reported High Commander Corr. “I have ordered some of our warships to focus on the energy beam satellites.”

Fleet Admiral Horrabe felt his flagship shake slightly. The space station was still launching large numbers of missiles. Very shortly the entire Confederation fleet would turn its full firepower on the station. When that happened, it would not take long to destroy it.

-

Colonel Henderson watched as the last ODP was blown apart. Space around the station was littered with wreckage from the ODPs and destroyed Confederation spacecraft.

“We won’t survive this, will we?” said Major Marcus in a low voice. Her eyes even now showed very little fear.

Loren shook his head. “No, I don’t think so. All we can do is take as many of the enemy with us as possible.” Leaning back in his command chair, Loren wished he could have at least traveled to Golan Four before he died. Now that didn’t seem very likely. The station shook more violently now as an increased number of missiles detonated against the station’s energy shield. Taking a deep breath, Loren felt regret at not being able to keep his appointment with Brett.

“The interceptor launch facility!”

Loren looked at the viewscreen just as a fusion missile slammed into its armored hull. The screen instantly dimmed from the sudden brightness. When it returned to normal, the launch facility was nothing more than a twisted mass of wreckage. A few intact interceptors could be seen tumbling around inside the debris.

“Defensive grid is gone,” reported Ensign Wilson, his voice quivering slightly. “We just lost the last two energy beam satellites.”

“Keep hitting them,” ordered Loren in a steady voice. “This station is as heavily armed as two ODPs.”

The station suddenly shook violently, and multiple red lights appeared on the damage control console.

“We just had two energy beam hits on our starboard side near the landing bays,” reported Major Marcus. “We have multiple compartments open to space and Landing Bay Beta is no longer accessible.”

“Seal off that section of the station,” ordered Loren calmly. He knew they couldn’t last much longer. The screen radiated brighter and brighter with every passing second. He was surprised it was still up.

Looking at the main viewscreen, Loren saw a Lormallian battleship coming apart under the station’s fire. A fusion missile arrived, blowing the battleship in two. Loren felt some satisfaction in knowing they were hurting the attacking fleet. The price for destroying Gateway One would not be cheap.

“Communications, send a message to Brett Newcomb. Tell him that we did the best we could, and we have no regrets.”

The message was sent, and soon thereafter Loren heard a loud rumbling. It grew louder and louder as the seconds passed. Red lights now covered the damage control console. The station shook so violently it was nearly impossible to stand. Loren heard the sound of tearing metal and knew the end was near.

“Shield is down!” screamed the tactical officer.

Moments later incredible heat encompassed the Command Center as the station was blown apart.

-

Rear Admiral Leeson felt shock when he saw Gateway One explode on the main viewscreen. The entire Command Center became quiet, knowing that a lot more good people had just died.

“Fleet losses are at 12 percent,” reported Captain Newman.

Leeson blinked and shook his head. “Pull us back to the Moon, the same for the interceptors. We’ll see where the Confederation fleet goes next.”

Gateway One was a major loss to the Solar System. It had been a symbol of the Human race’s ingenuity for decades. Now it was gone, and the Confederation fleet was still mostly intact. Leeson felt great sadness at all that had just been lost. Especially losing Loren. Over the years Leeson had become friends with Colonel Henderson. He would be greatly missed.

-

In the Pallas Command Center, Admiral Reynolds gazed in silence at the twisted wreckage that once was Gateway One. The entire Pallas Command Center had gone silent when the station blew apart.

“All right, people, we still have a battle to fight,” said Reynolds loudly. “We’ll mourn the dead later. Sensors, keep track of every one of those Confederation ships. I want to know where they’re going next.”

“At least Rear Admiral Leeson’s fleet is still mostly intact,” said Colonel Bryson.

“It is, but this battle is far from over.” Reynolds gazed at the large tactical hologram of the Earth-Moon system. He wondered what they would lose next.

-

Fleet Admiral Horrabe flexed the muscles in his arms as he stood and stretched. So far this battle had gone as planned. “How many ships did we lose?”

“Nearly three hundred,” reported High Commander Corr. “The Zynth lost over one hundred vessels in their engagement against the Human fleet.”

Horrabe spent nearly a full minute examining the large holographic tactical display, going so far as to walk completely around it several times. He had the display changed, first to show Earth and the defenses around it and then to reveal the planet’s moon and the defenses that protected it.

Finally Horrabe made his next decision. “We’ll attack the planet’s moon next. From our sensor scans, considerable manufacturing capability exists on its surface, and two shipyards are in orbit as well.”

“When do we attack?”

“Twenty minutes,” answered Horrabe. “Inform all ships damaged in this last battle they have twenty minutes to conduct emergency repairs.” Horrabe suspected this next battle would be much more difficult.

-

In the deep underground Command Center beneath the capital on Golan Four, High Princess Layla listened as Fleet Admiral Marloo relayed the latest information from the battle going on in Earth’s star system.

“Gateway One has been destroyed,” reported Marloo.

“Colonel Henderson!” cried out Krista in shock. “Did he die in the battle?”

Fleet Admiral Marloo nodded. “I’m afraid so, Princess. He refused to leave his post.”

“He was a good man,” said Layla. She had come to know the Earth Imperial very well. “He was not afraid to die. He set an example we must all live up to. What we are fighting for is worth our very lives, if necessary.”

“The Confederation fleet is not moving yet,” added Marloo. “They will either attack Earth’s moon or Earth itself. We should know shortly.”

Layla nodded. She knew that many of the people she had met during her time in the Solar System were in danger. She wondered how many more would die.

-

General Weston, in charge of Earth’s main shipyard, was gravely concerned. He didn’t know now if it would be possible to stop the Confederation fleet short of Earth.

“What will they do now?” asked his second in command, Colonel Julie Dean.

Before General Weston could reply, Lieutenant James Stone at the sensor console spoke. “Confederation fleet is moving. It’s heading directly toward the Moon.”

“I guess that answers that,” said General Weston. “Inform Rear Admiral Leeson that he’s to do whatever is necessary to defend the Moon and its facilities.”

“Should we send some of our attack interceptors?” asked Colonel Dean. She knew over seven thousand of them were based on Earth.

Weston shook his head. “No, we may need them here. Earth is still the Confederation’s primary target. We don’t dare do anything to weaken our defenses.”

“They’ll be in range of the Moon’s outer defenses in seven minutes,” Major Glen Alexander, the tactical officer, informed the general.

General Weston leaned back in his command chair. All he could do for now was watch.

-

Rear Admiral Leeson saw the Confederation fleet turn and move toward the Moon. “Contact Colonel Mills and tell him to use his surviving interceptors to intercept any inbound missiles that get past the defenses.”

“What about us?” asked Captain Newman.

“A direct confrontation between our fleet and the Confederation fleet would be suicidal in this instance. They have too much of a numerical advantage, and they could pin us against the Moon. No, we’ll split the fleet and assign units to cover all the ODPs. Twenty ODPs protect the Moon. We must keep them safe for as long as possible. I want one dreadnought and twenty battlecruisers assigned to each ODP. The remaining ships will stay with the Titan and will help cover the two orbiting shipyards. Contact the commanders of all the ODPs and have them pull the missile platforms closer to their commands. No point in making the platforms easy targets.”

Captain Newman nodded. Fifty large missile platforms protected the Moon. Newman hurried to Communications and issued orders.

“Lieutenant Suarez, get us over to the nearest of the two shipyards.” The shipyards were about half the size of the ones in Earth orbit, but they were still important to the war effort.

The Titan quickly maneuvered toward the closest shipyard. While the flagship was doing that, Rear Admiral Leeson studied a large holographic image of the defenses around the Moon. Three ODPs were centered above Luna City. The massive domes of Luna City were all protected by energy shields. In addition, deep underground bunkers had been built years ago to protect the population. The domed city also sat inside a ring of defensive energy turrets and interceptor missiles. It would be a difficult target to destroy.

“Mayor Stone reports that everyone who is nonessential has taken shelter in the underground bunkers,” reported Ensign Jeannette Bower from Communications. “Colonel Mills wants to know if you wish to take over the defenses or if you want him to retain command.”

“I’ll command the fleet. He’s in command of everything else. It’s what he’s been trained to do, and he’s well qualified for this. We just need to stay out of the way of his weapons fire.”

“Confederation fleet will be in weapons range in three minutes,” reported Lieutenant Stewart at Sensors.

Shifting his gaze to the tactical display, Leeson saw his fleet scattering, as the individual ships headed toward their assigned ODPs. Rear Admiral Mendoza’s flagship headed toward the other shipyard. It was time for the next part of this battle. Leeson’s gaze moved to the main viewscreen, which was focused on the massive domes of Luna City. He hoped they were still there when this was over.

Taking a deep breath, he gave his next order over the comm link, connecting him to all the ships in the combined fleet. “Prepare to engage. We have a line to hold, and the Confederation is not allowed to pass.”

Even as he spoke the words, intense weapons fire broke out. The battle for the Moon had begun.

Chapter Twenty

Fleet Admiral Horrabe watched intently as the ships of his fleet assaulted the defenses of the Earth’s moon. Intense weapons fire was currently being exchanged between the powerful defenses and his attacking fleet. His gaze roamed the viewscreens and the tactical displays, seeking a weakness he could exploit. He cast his mind out to read the thoughts of the Human commanders opposing him but ran into a blank wall. As had previously been reported, something about a Human’s mind made them inaccessible to the Morag.

“The defenses are the most powerful around that large series of domes on the surface,” commented High Commander Corr. On the main viewscreen, the domes Corr indicated appeared. “Three ODPs are directly above that site as well, and a spaceport is close by. On the far side of this moon is what appears to be a large military training facility. It consists of several very large domes, as well as a series of small spaceports.”

Horrabe focused on the locations High Commander Corr mentioned. He noted that both were targets that needed to be destroyed. “Designate both sites as primary targets.” He then used his mental abilities to assign several of his fleet admirals to apply pressure to the defenses around and above those installations. Horrabe also decided to pay special attention to those attacks. “What about those two shipyards?”

“Counting 107 warships protecting one and 118 protecting the other.”

“An excellent opportunity to further weaken their fleet. We will assign the necessary fleet units to annihilate those ships as well as the shipyards they protect.”

Horrabe now used his mind to influence various admirals and ship commanders. He wanted certain goals accomplished in this attack, and he was determined to make sure those goals were achieved.

-

Captain Julius Vern was in command of the three ODPs directly above Luna City. Forty energy beam satellites and ten missile platforms were under his direct control as well. He used the energy beam satellites to shoot down as many of the incoming missiles as possible. The missile platforms he used to hit various Confederation warships in massive missile wave attacks. So far he had annihilated twenty-two enemy warships using the platforms. The three ODPs were his heaviest hitters. With their missile tubes, fusion energy beam turrets, and their large fusion cannons, he had caused considerable damage to every Confederation ship that came within range.

“We have large numbers of Confederation ships moving toward us,” warned his sensor officer. “This may be a concentrated effort to take us out.”

Captain Vern nodded. “We’re prepared for this.” Vern was in constant communication with all ten missile platforms under his command. “All platforms, concentrate your fire on the inbound enemy ships. Ripple-fire your missiles, and clear your missile bunkers. Once all missiles have been expended, you’re to evacuate your commands and head toward the surface. Good luck and good hunting.”

-

The ten missile platforms immediately launched missiles at an accelerated rate. The entire forward section of the advancing Confederation fleet became a furnace of dying ships from the tremendous number of exploding fusion and antimatter missiles. Heavy fusion energy beams from the ODPs added to the destruction, seeking out damaged targets.

-

In the command ODP, Captain Vern nodded in satisfaction. “I want all three ODPs to focus on the enemies’ battleships. Let the platforms take out the battlecruisers.”

Captain Vern watched his viewscreens, as the enemy fleet continued to advance. It was obvious its strategy was to destroy the missile platforms. One after another Vern saw them blown apart under intense weapons fire. Only the last two managed to launch all their missiles and evacuate.

“They’re switching their fire to the energy beam satellites,” reported the sensor officer.

It took several minutes for the energy satellites to all be destroyed, and then the three ODPs faced the might of the advancing Confederation fleet on their own.

“It’s about to get rough,” commented Lieutenant Chelsea Lawson, his second in command.

Captain Vern nodded. “It was bound to eventually.” Vern studied the tactical screens for several moments. “I want all three ODPs dropped down closer to the Moon. Put us ninety kilometers above Luna City.”

“That’s low,” replied Lawson worriedly. “We’ll be using our thrusters constantly to maintain orbit.”

“I know, but the three PDCs around Luna City can then fire on the enemy ships attacking us from that range. That will give us a lot more firepower.”

Lieutenant Lawson smiled. “I like that idea. I’ll pass the order immediately.”

Captain Vern leaned back in his command chair. The battle was about to get interesting. The PDCs on the Moon’s surface did not have an atmosphere to fire through. It would make their fusion energy beams even more dangerous.

-

Rear Admiral Leeson was involved in a heavy firefight with the Confederation ships swarming the shipyards. Both he and Rear Admiral Mendoza were doing everything they could to protect the two valuable structures.

“We’re too heavily outnumbered,” said Captain Newman, sweat running off his brow. “For every countermove we make, they have one to answer. It’s almost unreal.”

Leeson winced as he saw another of his battlecruisers blown apart as its screen was overloaded, and then it was struck by a pair of antimatter missiles. His gaze wandered to one of the viewscreens of the shipyard he was trying to protect. An ODP was close to it, and the ODP was under heavy attack. Even the shipyard’s energy screen was being struck by occasional missiles and fusion energy beams. Leeson had the sinking feeling that, no matter what he did, he would lose this battle. The numbers, even with the Moon’s massive defenses, just were not on his side.

“The three ODPs over Luna City are dropping down in their orbit to allow the PDCs around Luna City to bring their heavy weapons to bear,” reported Ensign Bower.

“Good move,” commented Captain Newman. “That’ll be a hard nut to crack over Luna City.”

“I wish we had more ships we could send them,” said Rear Admiral Leeson. They desperately needed another fleet, and, other than Rear Admiral Collison’s fleet, which was protecting Earth, there was not one.

“We could request some attack interceptors from Earth,” suggested Newman. “Say a thousand.”

Leeson let out a deep sigh. “I wish we could, but we’ll need all those interceptors when this fleet attacks Earth.”

“Admiral!” shouted Bower, her eyes wide with shock. “They just took out the Fleet Academy. All the domes plus the spaceports. I have confirmed reports that at least two, maybe three antimatter missiles detonated when the shields failed. The entire area is devastated.”

Leeson closed his eyes and shook his head. This was horrible news. It would take several years just to rebuild the academy and the infrastructure surrounding it. Forcing his eyes back open, he looked at Ensign Bower. “What happened?”

“The Confederation overran the ODPs protecting that region of the Moon. Then they crashed four of their damaged battlecruisers into the energy shields of the defending PDCs. The shields collapsed, and the Confederation ships then blew them up. Then they launched an all-out assault on the energy shields protecting the domes of the academy, the Marine training facility, and the spaceport. They couldn’t handle such a massive bombardment and failed after a few minutes.”

Rear Admiral Leeson leaned forward. “Inform all commands of the Confederation’s use of suiciding their severely damaged ships. If we know what they’ll do, we can stop them.” This Morag admiral was shrewd. He was constantly adjusting his strategy. Leeson wondered what was next.

-

Fleet Admiral Horrabe gazed at the destruction on the main viewscreen of his flagship. He had taken over the minds of four of his commanding officers whose ships had been severely damaged. He had forced them to fly their ships at high speed into the energy shields of the defending PDCs protecting the domes and the spaceports of the large Human base and installations that Horrabe wanted to destroy.

The plan had worked. Where the Human domes and spaceports once were, now three massive craters in the ground had been created by antimatter explosions.

He shifted his concentration to the three ODPs defending the largest cluster of domes on the surface and a major spaceport. That target had to be destroyed, as well as the two orbiting shipyards. Without hesitation he seized control of the minds of twenty commanders whose ships were heavily damaged. He ordered them all to ram one of the shipyards, while the rest of the attacking ships laid down a powerful barrage of missiles and fusion energy beams to cover their attack. He would annihilate the two shipyards and the warships protecting them and would then focus the full might of his fleet on the three ODPs defending the main ground target he wanted to destroy.

-

Rear Admiral Leeson felt the Titan shake violently as it came under fire from a squadron of enemy battlecruisers. At the same time the entire Confederation fleet surged forward toward the shipyard he was defending.

“We’re being overrun,” said Captain Newman, as several red warning lights appeared on the damage control console. “We can’t stop them.”

Leeson knew what Newman said was true. Confederation ships were everywhere around the Titan as well as his other ships. Battlecruisers and even a few dreadnoughts were destroyed by the sudden rush of the enemy fleet.

“Admiral, the shipyard!” shouted Lieutenant Stewart.

On the main viewscreen, half a dozen Confederation battlecruisers smashed into the energy screen of the shipyard, causing it to flare way up in brightness. Two more hit, and then the screen failed. A damaged Zynth battleship appeared and rammed the center of the station, tearing it in two. Missiles and energy beams finished it off. When the firing stopped, all that was left was a field of glowing debris.

“Shipyard has been destroyed,” confirmed Captain Newman in disbelief at how rapidly it had happened. “The other shipyard is under similar attack.”

Leeson looked at the viewscreen just in time to see the shipyard’s energy shield go down, and then two Zang battlecruisers rammed the shipyard. In a massive explosion, the shipyard blew apart, sending debris flying in all directions. Several ships too close were struck by large pieces of debris and destroyed.

“Contact Rear Admiral Mendoza. I want all surviving ships to rendezvous at the three ODPs defending Luna City.” Leeson felt his breathing quickening. He was losing this battle, and he knew he could do nothing to change it.

-

Fleet Admiral Horrabe felt sweat on his wide forehead. It was hard work using his telepathy to influence so many ship commanders. But he had accomplished his goal. Both shipyards were gone, and many of the warships protecting them had been destroyed as well. Now it was time to focus on the three ODPs and the PDCs on the surface.

“Some ship commanders are questioning why so many of their fellow commanders volunteered to suicide their ships,” reported High Commander Corr.

“Don’t worry about it,” replied Horrabe, as he drank a liquid stimulant one of his aides had handed him. “We will scrub their minds when all this is over. We’ll make it seem like they volunteered to assure a Confederation victory. We’ll have four weeks to scan everyone before we make it back to Confederation space.”

High Commander Corr gestured toward the three ODPs on the main viewscreen. “This battle is not yet won. The surviving ships defending the shipyards are coming to the aid of the Human ODPs. Sensors indicate all their ships are coming here.”

Horrabe nodded. “That will just make them easier to kill, and we won’t have to hunt them down later.”

-

Admiral Reynolds had watched the destruction of the Fleet Academy, the Marine training center, and the adjoining spaceports in shock. Now on the main viewscreens were the ruins of two shipyards they could ill afford to have lost. “This Morag admiral is like none we’ve faced before. He is sending fully crewed ships to suicide in order to bring down our shields.”

“What do we do to prevent that?”

“We must shift our targeting. When we detect a Confederation ship coming in on a direct collision heading, we must switch all our weapons fire to take out that ship before it strikes our energy screens. Colonel Bryson, inform Rear Admiral Leeson of our conclusion. Also contact General Weston and tell him as well.”

Reynolds frowned. He wished he could do something to help, but the battle was being fought over 430 million kilometers away. All he could do was watch and offer occasional advice.

-

Rear Admiral Leeson looked at the smaller number of green icons that now represented his fleet. He still had 227 battlecruisers and 14 dreadnoughts. The surviving fleet was positioned to assist the three ODPs that were soon to be in a battle for their very survival.

“Confederation fleet is massing into one large formation,” reported Captain Newman. “Their coordination is much better than anything we’ve ever seen before.”

“The Morag,” muttered Leeson. “They act like professional warriors.”

“I still don’t see how their fleet can maneuver like it has. Something to me just does not make any sense.”

“Could be computer control,” suggested Leeson, as he watched the approaching enemy fleet. “When this is over, and we can study some of the wreckage, maybe we’ll know.”

Captain Newman studied the enemy force now rapidly approaching them. “They’ll try to overrun us again, like they did at the shipyards.”

Leeson suspected Newman was correct. Leaning forward, he activated the ship-to-ship comm channel. “All commands, target enemy vessels as soon as they get in range. Any ships on a direct collision course with any of the three ODPs are primary targets and must be destroyed. I don’t want to see any of the ODPs rammed!”

-

The Confederation fleet entered weapons range, and space was once more full of weapons fire and exploding missiles. As Captain Newman had predicted, the Confederation fleet did not slow down but swarmed around the Human fleet and the ODPs. Countless damaged battlecruisers tried to ram the ODPs, and, despite the heavy fire from the Human forces, some were successful. In less than two minutes of fighting the first ODP saw its energy shield fail. Moments later dozens of antimatter missiles slammed into its armored hull, changing it into a glowing furnace as hot as a sun.

Ships on both sides were dying. Weapons fire from the ODPs and now the PDCs on the surface smashed into large sections of the advancing Confederation fleet, destroying numerous warships. A second one of the ODPs had its shield knocked down from a massive hail of missiles. The screen failed, and moments later the ODP died as it was blown to oblivion.

-

Captain Julius Vern, senior commander of the orbiting ODPs, winced as the other ODP was blown apart. Rear Admiral Leeson’s fleet was doing the best it could to protect them, but it just wasn’t enough. Ground fire from the PDCs reaching the Confederation fleet was causing widespread damage and destruction, but already antimatter missiles were striking the protective energy screens above the domes of Luna City.

“Get me Rear Admiral Leeson,” ordered Captain Vern.

“Got him,” called out the communications officer.

“Admiral, you need to get out of here. Not much more you can do. We’re just too badly outnumbered. Take what survives of your fleet and get to Earth. You’ve done all you can here.”

At that moment the energy shield protecting the large spaceport next to Luna City failed. It had been under heavy attack. One moment the spaceport was there, and, the next, it was a huge glowing crater in the ground.

“It’s over. Please leave. Your ships will be needed to defend Earth.”

“Can you evacuate?” asked Leeson.

Captain Vern laughed. “No, at least here on the ODP we’ll get a quick and painless death.”

“I hate leaving you,” replied Leeson.

“You have no choice. Take what remains of your fleet and get to Earth. Captain Vern out.” Vern shut off the comm unit. There was nothing else to say. “Everyone, do your jobs. I want to take as many Confederation ships with us as possible.” The ODP shook violently, and Vern expected the shield to fail at any moment. He just hoped the Confederation fleet could be stopped short of Earth.

-

Rear Admiral Leeson was in shock at the carnage he was witnessing. One of the PDCs near Luna City had just lost its energy shield and was now nothing more than a deep glowing crater. The domes of Luna City glowed brightly from all the antimatter and fusion missiles striking the protective shields.

“Captain Newman, order all ships to pull out. We’re heading to Earth.” Even as he said those words, one of the energy shields over one of the huge domes of Luna City failed. In an instant, the dome was turned to slag, and a deep crater was blasted into the Lunar surface. The work of decades was wiped out. Moments later the energy screen protecting another dome failed, and another massive crater appeared.

Rear Admiral Leeson took in a deep breath. Captain Vern was right; nothing more could be done here.

The Titan and the surviving ships of Second and Sixth Fleets turned and accelerated away from the battle. Some ships were too damaged to flee, and those stayed to fight to the end. They formed up closer to the surviving ODP to give it what support they could.

-

Fleet Admiral Horrabe leaned back in his command chair, exhausted. For the last hour he had used his telepathy to control the battle. “Pull us back,” he ordered. “We’ve done enough damage to this moon. We’ve annihilated or heavily damaged all our primary targets. We must take time to repair our own damage and to rest before we make a move on the Humans’ home planet.”

-

Captain Vern stood in shock as the Confederation fleet pulled out of combat range. Looking at a large viewscreen, he saw the ruins of Luna City. Only one of its major domes was still intact. All the others had been smashed. He knew that some of the deep bunkers had probably been destroyed as well. Still a few damaged Human warships remained near the ODP. For them certain destruction had surprisingly gone away.

“Get repairs underway. Have the other surviving ODPs take up positions over the surviving city domes.” Captain Vern knew a number of domes had not been targeted across the Moon. At least the people would have somewhere to go.

“Can we contact Colonel Mills?”

“No,” replied the communications officer. “There’s too much interference, and one of those deep glowing craters is directly above the underground Command Center. It might not have survived.”

Captain Vern let out a deep sigh of frustration. What else could go wrong today? “I want a complete list of what military assets we have left. Particularly ODPs, missile platforms, and energy beam satellites. We still have a moon to defend, and millions of people depending on us are inside those underground bunkers.” Captain Vern turned his gaze to the tactical display. The Confederation fleet was now on a slow course toward Earth. At their current speed, it would take them six hours to get there. Captain Vern hoped Earth would come out better than the Moon had.

-

“What were our losses?” asked Fleet Admiral Horrabe. The battle had been intense, and, at times, he had become lost in it, due to his connection to his admirals and to his ship commanders. He felt like his mind had been run through a wringer.

“We went into the battle with 5,643 ships,” reported High Commander Corr. “We came out of the battle with 4,370. Of those nearly eight hundred have substantial battle damage.”

“Inform the commanders of those damaged ships they have six hours to conduct repairs. Now, I’ll be in my quarters to get a few hours rest. I’ll need my telepathic abilities, if we expect to win the next part of this battle.”

“And what are our goals?” asked Corr. He knew they didn’t have the forces left to totally subjugate this system.

Horrabe stood and then looked at High Commander Corr. “I want all the shipyards and space stations in orbit around Earth destroyed. If we can do that, it will be years before they can threaten the Confederation again. By that time we’ll have reconquered all the worlds of the Human Empire, and it will be up to the Great Council, led by us, to decide what needs to be done. I believe at some future date we’ll offer Earth peace, if they’ll stay in the Bacchus Region and stay away from any other Human worlds or the Confederation.”

Horrabe then left the Command Center, heading toward his quarters. He badly needed some rest before the next battle. With the proper medications, he would be ready when the time came.

-

“No contact with Colonel Mills or Mayor Kennedy Stone,” reported Colonel Williams at the Pallas Command Center. “Captain Vern is the senior ODP commanding officer on the Moon, and he’s taken charge for the time being. He’s moving the remaining orbital defenses around to give protection to domes that are still standing.”

“What of Rear Admiral Leeson’s fleet?”

Colonel Bryson shook her head. “Not much left. He has five dreadnoughts and seventy-eight battlecruisers. Almost every ship has suffered some damage.”

“The Confederation fleet?”

“We estimate they still have nearly 4,300 ships left,” answered Colonel Bryson. “Some of those are damaged. The fleet is currently heading toward Earth but at a very low speed. We believe they are repairing their ships before they strike Earth.”

Admiral Reynolds stood and walked over to the large holographic tactical display of Earth. “Have Rear Admiral Leeson join up with Rear Admiral Collison. Collison will remain in command. That will give Collison over 720 warships. Rear Admiral Leeson will be second in command, followed by Rear Admiral Mendoza. Contact General Weston at the main shipyard and inform him that he has full control of the next part of the battle. He is to do everything in his power to protect those three shipyards and Earth.”

It had now become apparent to Reynolds that this Morag admiral was intent on destroying the systems’ ability to wage war in the Empire. If he could annihilate enough of the shipyards, he might just accomplish his goal.

-

On Golan Four, Andrew shook his head in disbelief when he heard of the destruction done to the Moon and Luna City.

“The Fleet Academy, the Marine training center, and their adjacent spaceports are gone also,” reported General Gantts. “There has been no contact with Luna City’s underground Command Center.”

“I’ve been to Luna City several times,” said Andrew, his eyes narrowing. “It was an amazing place. Luna City was the most advanced city in the Solar System. I hope the people survived in the deep underground bunkers.”

“It’s too early to know,” replied General Gantts. “Rescue operations can’t even be launched because of the closeness of the Confederation fleet. They still have nearly 4,300 ships left.”

Layla looked at Fleet Admiral Marloo. “That’s a lot of ships.”

“Keep in mind they started out with over eight thousand. From my understanding of Earth’s defenses, the Confederation fleet might just be about to step into a major trap. Over seven thousand attack interceptors are based on Earth and another eight hundred are on the shipyards. Rear Admiral Collison still has his fleet intact. If you combine the interceptors along with Collison’s fleet, Earth just might survive this with little or no damage.”

“Let us hope so,” said Layla. “An awful lot of people live on Earth. More so than on any Imperial planet, even more than on Ambary Two.”

A communications officer came over and spoke to Fleet Admiral Marloo.

“It appears we have a few hours before the Confederation fleet reaches Earth. Admiral Reynolds believes they’re repairing their ships. I suggest we all get something to eat and take a few hours to rest before coming back here.”

“The battle for Earth,” said Krista in a low voice. “Sounds like the title of a science fiction novel.”

Layla shook her head. “This is real life, not fiction. Millions of people are dying in the Solar System. Some of them are our newest friends. Let’s just hope that Earth survives this, for, without Earth, the Empire will fall.”

Everyone grew quiet; they knew High Princess Layla was correct. The most important battle to free the Human Empire was about to take place, and they could do nothing to help. Earth was on its own.

Chapter Twenty-One

General Aleck Weston watched the massive viewscreens in the Command Center of Alpha One, Earth’s primary shipyard. Many times Weston had wondered why they had not come up with a more original name. The other two military shipyards were named similarly, Alpha Two and Alpha Three.

“Confederation ships will be here in sixty-seven minutes,” reported Colonel Julie Dean. “All commands are at Condition One, and interceptors are ready to launch upon your order.”

General Weston nodded. “Inform Rear Admiral Collison that he is not to engage until ordered.” Weston wanted to know what the Confederation fleet would do before he committed the system’s last major fleet.

“We’re getting a lot of messages from Earth,” reported Lieutenant Brenda Willis at Communications. “We have several leaders of smaller countries demanding we surrender immediately rather than risk Earth being attacked.”

“The fools!” uttered Colonel Dean, shaking her head. “Don’t they realize the Confederation would not accept a surrender? They would still bomb the planet.”

“We still have the full support of Earth’s military and all the major governments,” replied General Weston. “Ignore those messages for now.”

Colonel Dean turned toward the general. “General Stern and General Brice report that all North American Union forces are at Condition One. They are ready to launch interceptors at our order.”

“All interceptor bases across the planet are reporting ready to launch,” added Lieutenant Willis.

General Weston nodded. “Inform them we are still a good hour away from launch. Where are all the civilian ships?”

“We’ve landed those we could, and the others are in low Earth orbits, where they are not blocking any of the PDCs,” replied Colonel Dean.

“Rear Admiral Leeson requests that he be allowed to put a few of his worst damaged warships in our repair bays. He says they’ll be next to useless in the upcoming battle.”

“Yes, he has permission to use the repair bays on all three of our shipyards.” Weston wanted to save those damaged ships if possible. When this battle was over, the fleet would need every ship it could get its hands on.

On the main tactical display, the Confederation fleet adjusted its formation. When it was done, it resembled a hollow cone aimed directly at Alpha One.

“I don’t like the looks of that,” said Colonel Dean, frowning.

Weston nodded his agreement. “They want to partially englobe us. It will allow them to hit us with the maximum amount of firepower.”

“We’ll need to watch for suiciders,” added Dean. “They used those at Ganymede and at the Moon.”

“Assign some of our gun crews just for that purpose, both on the shipyard and on the orbiting ODPs.” The shipyard had six ODPs, two hundred defensive satellites, and forty missile platforms under its direct control. Alpha One had been designed to be the major blockade for any attack on Earth. The other two shipyards were protected similarly but not quite as in depth as Alpha One was.

“What do you want Rear Admiral Collison and Fourth Fleet to do?”

“Watch for leakers to begin with. If any Confederation ships get past us, they’re to engage them. We can’t allow any antimatter missiles to be launched toward Earth.” Weston had other plans for Collison as well, but that must wait until later in the battle.

-

Fleet Admiral Horrabe reentered the Command Center. He had spent a couple of hours sleeping and taking medication to give him extra strength and stamina and consuming a medium-size meal with additional liquid nourishment. “How are the repairs on our warships coming?”

“Those that could be repaired have been. Some are little more than flying wrecks,” answered High Commander Corr.

Horrabe nodded. “I have a special use for those vessels. Standby to accelerate. At our current speed, it will take us nearly another hour to close with that large shipyard. Increase speed. I want to attack in the next ten minutes. It’s time to bring this battle to a close.”

-

The Confederation fleet accelerated, heading directly toward Alpha One. All across Earth and in space its defenders detected the change in acceleration. Tensions increased, and weapons were readied. If Earth were to be destroyed, then so too would this Confederation fleet.

-

“Engagement range in six minutes,” reported Colonel Dean. “ODPs, missile platforms, and energy beam satellites are ready to fire.”

“Ripple-fire the missile platforms,” ordered General Weston. “Once a platform has exhausted its missiles, it’s to put its energy weapons on automatic and evacuate.”

Colonel Dean turned toward the general. “If I was the Morag admiral, I’d hit us with every damaged ship he has. We may be facing a wave of suiciders in the beginning.”

“You’re right,” replied Weston. “Remind all commands that any ships on a collision course with any ODP or this shipyard are to be targeted.”

“Rear Admiral Collison is changing his fleet formation into a wedge,” reported Lieutenant Brenda Willis from Communications. “He’s ready to attack when you give the order.”

Weston studied the main tactical holographic display. The enemy was coming in fast and would be in weapons range in another few minutes. He noticed a small core of enemy ships breaking away from the rest. “I want a larger view of those ships,” ordered Weston, pointing to the ones he wanted to see better.

The holographic image swelled up, and he saw several hundred battlecruisers surrounding thirty other Confederation ships. All appeared to be heavily damaged. “There are our rammers. Get this out to all commands. That small group of ships is our primary target. I want every weapon we have focused on it until every one of those warships is sent to oblivion!”

“Locking on targets!” called out Major Glen Alexander from Tactical. “Firing range in forty seconds.”

The tension in the Command Center rapidly increased as the Confederation fleet drew nearer.

“Engagement range!” called out Major Alexander.

“All commands, fire!” ordered General Weston over his fleet-wide comm.

-

Fleet Admiral Horrabe was taken aback by the massive amount of weapons fire that erupted from the shipyard and its protective ODPs, missile platforms, and energy beam satellites. His large eyes widened, as he realized the majority of that weapons fire was aimed at his suicide ships. The small globe of ships, hurtling toward the shipyard, suddenly lit up like a nova from all the explosions. Taking mental control of all the ship captains in that globe of ships, he encouraged them to increase acceleration and to ram the shipyard. If he could destroy it quickly, it would be a massive blow to the morale of the Human defenders.

-

The ships accelerated to an even higher speed, but the weapons fire was so intense they left a trail of twisted wreckage from destroyed warships behind them. It was impossible to see any of the ships in the small Confederation globe. The weapons fire seemed to intensify as the globe drew nearer to the shipyard, and then, just four hundred kilometers distant, the globe fell apart as heavy missile fire blew apart the last of the warships.

-

Fleet Admiral Horrabe grew angry that his gambit to end this quickly had failed. “Move forward and englobe the shipyard, the ODPs, missile platforms, and the energy beam satellites protecting it. We will destroy them all.”

-

The Confederation fleet surged forward. Weapons fire was now focused on the incoming ships, with both sides exchanging heavy weapons fire. The battle had become much more serious.

-

General Weston watched as the Confederation fleet quickly encircled his command. He had to smile to himself. What the Morag admiral didn’t know was that Alpha One had the most powerful energy shield in the Solar System. So powerful that Weston doubted if the Confederation fleet could even bring it down.

“Englobement complete,” reported Colonel Dean.

This was what Weston had been waiting for. “Contact all attack interceptor commands. They are to launch now. Inform our four battlecarriers at Ganymede they are to return immediately. We’ll need their bays to rearm our interceptors as the interceptors expend their missile payloads. Attack interceptors are to attack along with Rear Admiral Collison’s fleet. We’ll hit them with everything we have left and see if they break.” Weston had already talked to Admiral Reynolds about recalling the four battlecarriers for this engagement, so the four carriers should be ready.

“Interceptors launching,” reported Colonel Dean. “Rear Admiral Collison is waiting for them. He’ll bring them in right behind his fleet so they can do the most damage.”

General Weston smiled. “Now let’s see what that Morag admiral does.”

-

“Human small attack craft coming up from the planet,” warned High Commander Corr.”

“How many?” asked Horrabe, expecting to be facing possibly a thousand, maybe a few more.

“Detecting 7,241.”

Horrabe’s gaze moved to one of the tactical displays of the planet. It was full of red threat icons, rising rapidly through the planet’s atmosphere. Horrabe did not like what he saw. He had not expected to face anywhere near the number of small attack craft now coming toward him.

“No doubt their remaining fleet will come in with them.” Suddenly he knew this battle was in doubt. His fleet was engaged in heavy combat with the shipyard and its defenders, but now throw in the Human fleet as well as all the small attack craft, and the variables rapidly changed.

“These Humans of Earth are much more dangerous than the ones in their Empire,” said Horrabe. “I fear our fleet will not return home.”

High Commander Corr looked at Horrabe in surprise. “I don’t understand.”

“We must destroy this shipyard or, at the minimum, strike Earth. If we fail to do either, then I fear we will lose this war. These Humans are warriors, unlike the Humans in the Empire. As much as I hate to say it, the Morag may have finally met their equals in battle.”

-

Rear Admiral Leeson watched as the attack interceptors from Earth rendezvoused with Fourth Fleet. The four battlecarriers from Ganymede had returned and had taken up a position behind the fleet to rearm the interceptors. The interceptors the carriers normally carried had been left at Ganymede to help protect the Jovian moon.

“We’re to hit the front of the Confederation fleet,” Leeson said, “and attempt to overrun it. The interceptors will come in right behind us and take out all the damaged ships. Between us and the defenses of the shipyard, we should smash the Confederation fleet.”

Captain Newman nodded. “I’m just glad we had so many interceptors based on Earth.”

Leeson let out a deep sigh. “We all are.” He turned his attention to the tactical display, showing a massive number of friendly green icons. It was finally time to show this Morag admiral that attacking Earth was the worst mistake he had made.

-

Fleet Admiral Horrabe was deeply concerned about the large number of small attack craft assembling to attack his fleet. He had never imagined the Humans would possess such large numbers. He knew with a sinking feeling that, once they attacked, the battle would be lost. However, he still had a plan that might severely limit Earth’s ability to help the Human Empire. Taking a deep breath, he used his telepathy to contact some of his ship commanders. He would show these Humans what real warriors were like.

-

General Weston felt Alpha One shake as a large number of antimatter missiles detonated against its shield. Even though the shield protected the shipyard from direct damage, the constant shaking caused some minor problems. On the massive damage control board were hundreds of blinking amber lights.

On one of the viewscreens, an ODP was under heavy attack. Its screen glowed brighter and brighter. Suddenly several fusion energy beams penetrated, blasting deep craters into the heavy armor. The ODP shook violently, but then the screen strengthened.

“We’re losing a lot of missile platforms and energy beam satellites,” commented Colonel Dean. She gestured toward a viewscreen that showed multiple blasts of light and energy in space. “Those are missile platforms and energy beam satellites being destroyed. I estimate we’ve lost 42 percent of the platforms and 38 percent of the satellites.

“Confederation losses?”

“Over six hundred ships so far.

General Weston nodded. “Keep pounding them. Contact Rear Admiral Collison and inform him to launch his attack. It’s time we showed the Confederation what real war is like.”

-

Fourth Fleet came in and hit the front of the Confederation fleet, breaking the englobement of Alpha One. Behind the fleet over seven thousand attack interceptors swept in, using their fusion missiles to annihilate any damaged Confederation ship they could find. Space lit up with thousands of explosions, many of them marking the death of warships and attack interceptors.

-

Fleet Admiral Horrabe was not surprised by the fury of the attack. It was what he was coming to expect of these Humans.

“The forward section of our englobement has been broken,” reported High Commander Corr, looking stunned. “The Humans are pressing their attack, trying to force our fleet back. We are having a hard time dealing with their small attack craft. There are thousands of them!”

“Between the firepower from the shipyard and its defenders and the Human fleet, they will succeed,” said Horrabe in a steady voice. “We can still salvage a victory. We will take part of the Morag fleet and attack Earth. If we can hit it with a barrage of antimatter missiles, this can still be considered a victory.”

Horrabe sent out a mental command, and nearly three hundred Morag warships, many of them battleships, pulled out of the battle. They quickly formed up and headed toward Earth.

-

Rear Admiral Leeson saw the sudden change in tactics by the Confederation fleet and recognized what they were trying to do. “Contact Rear Admiral Collison and tell him that I’ll handle those Morag vessels.”

Leeson then contacted the surviving ships of Second Fleet, pulling them from the battle and moving to intercept the enemy vessels. He also took five hundred attack interceptors with him.

“Can they get through to Earth?” asked Captain Newman, showing some concern.

“Not if we can help it,” replied Leeson.

On the main tactical screen, Leeson noticed that most of the Morag vessels were battleships. One larger-than-normal battleship was in the center of the formation. No doubt this was the flagship of the Morag admiral commanding the Confederation fleet. In Rear Admiral Leeson’s mind, this particular admiral must die.

-

“We have three other dreadnoughts and forty-seven battlecruisers,” reported Captain Newman. “We’ll be slightly outnumbered.”

Leeson laughed. “Tell me something new. We’ll hit the center of that Morag formation of battleships with the attack interceptors directly behind us. Our primary target is that big battleship in the middle.”

Newman was quiet for a long moment. “This may be a suicide mission, Admiral. I thought you didn’t believe in those.”

A serious looked crossed Rear Admiral Leeson’s face. “That Morag admiral in that battleship has been responsible for killing millions of our people. No way I’m letting him get away without paying for it.”

Newman let out a deep sigh. “Sometimes, in war, great sacrifices must be made. Let’s go get that SOB.”

-

Fleet Admiral Horrabe saw the group of Human ships break off from the main force and head toward his fleet. “They came. It is as I expected. That fleet will be led by their fleet admiral. He must realize by now that I am in this fleet and which ship I’m aboard. He comes to kill me. These people are truly warriors. I fear the fate of the Confederation will be decided here in the next few minutes and not back in the Human Empire.”

“Do you think these Earth Humans are really that dangerous?” asked High Commander Corr.

Horrabe nodded. “These Humans here are the greatest threat our Confederation has ever faced. We must not fail in striking this Human world, and we must kill this Human admiral who now challenges us.”

-

The Morag fleet continued toward Earth with the small Human fleet in close pursuit. The Morag fleet entered the range of the orbiting ODPs and missile platforms. Heavy weapons fire erupted, lighting up the entire forward section of the Morag fleet. Several battleships exploded from the sheer volume of incoming fire. Then the pursuing Human fleet caught up and slammed into the rear of the Morag force, followed by the five hundred attack interceptors. The entire Morag formation erupted in fire as antimatter and fusion weapons lit up space.

-

Rear Admiral Leeson felt the Titan shake severely as it was hit by multiple antimatter missiles and fusion energy beams. None penetrated, and the shield stayed up. Intense weapons fire crawled over the flagship’s screen, seeking an opening. Leeson’s gaze focused on the main viewscreen and the massive Morag battleship that was his target. Already weapons fire from the Titan was striking its energy shield.

-

Fleet Admiral Horrabe saw the large Human warship bearing down on his flagship. He had always dreamed of fighting a worthy enemy, and that time had finally arrived. “I want two full missile barrages from every ship aimed at Earth. Once that’s been done, we must destroy these attacking ships and withdraw.” Horrabe had no intention of withdrawing until this fleet admiral was dead. It had now become a matter of honor, as far as he was concerned.

-

“Admiral, the Morag ships are launching missiles toward Earth,” reported Lieutenant Stewart.

“Detach half of our attack interceptors to destroy those missiles,” ordered Leeson. “The orbital defense and the ground interceptors will take care of the rest.”

The Titan shook violently, and several red lights appeared on the damage control console. The shield was being ravaged by Morag weapons fire and was close to failing.

On the viewscreen, the Morag flagship was plainly visible. Its own screen radiated just as brightly as the Titan’s.

Looking at the tactical display, Leeson saw the interceptors were gaining on the rear of the missiles, and the energy beam satellites in the defense grid around Earth were starting to take them out in small explosive fireballs.

On other viewscreens, both Human and Morag warships were dying as they blew each other apart. The battle was brutal, and, if not for the several hundred interceptors still with Second Fleet, it would have already been over.

The Titan suddenly shook violently, and Leeson could hear the sound of tearing metal.

“Energy shield is about to fail,” reported Lieutenant Tasha Brewer. “I just wish we could have gotten their admiral.”

Rear Admiral Leeson’s gaze turned hard as steel. “Full speed ahead. We’ll ram that son of a bitch.”

The Titan lurched ahead as it gained speed.

Captain Newman looked at the admiral. “It’s been an honor, sir.”

“The honor’s been mine,” replied Leeson, his gaze focused on the viewscreen and the rapidly nearing flagship of his enemy. “This is the best crew an admiral could ever want.”

“Energy screen is down!”

-

Fleet Admiral Horrabe was stunned at what was happening. The enemy flagship was on a collision course with his vessel. On the main viewscreen, weapons fire was starting to tear it apart, but it was already too close to hit with a missile.

“They’ll ram us!” uttered High Commander Corr, stepping back from the viewscreen.

“Of course they’ll ram. That fleet admiral is a warrior, and he intends to take us with him. We die an honorable death.” Horrabe knew his flagship could not dodge what was coming for him. He leaned back and closed his eyes, waiting for the arrival of oblivion.

-

The two vessels collided, and a massive explosion overshadowed both fleets. For a moment the weapons fire stopped as the commanders of all the warships realized what had just happened. Both fleet admirals had just died. The surviving Morag ships turned instantly and made the transition into hyperspace. All the Morag ships still battling around Alpha One did the same. Their fleet admiral was gone, and it was time to leave.

Zynth Admiral Laru, seeing the Morag pull out, instantly ordered all his ships to do the same.

Within minutes the fighting was over, as all the Confederation ships turned and fled the system. The battle was over, but the death and the destruction was not.

-

General Weston’s attention was called to the main viewscreens of Earth. Not all the Morag missiles had been stopped. Four large mushroom clouds rose into Earth’s atmosphere. “Any sign of the Titan?” He had witnessed the two flagships collide.

“No, sir,” replied Colonel Dean. “Both ships were totally annihilated in the explosion. I believe Rear Admiral Leeson may have rigged several of his antimatter warheads to explode upon contact with the enemy flagship.”

General Weston sat, gazing at the viewscreen for nearly a minute. No doubt Rear Admiral Leeson’s sacrifice had won the Humans’ the battle for Earth. The death of the Morag fleet admiral had shaken the surviving Confederation forces, and, when the Morag left, the others simply followed.

Looking at the viewscreens, Weston saw a large number of damaged ships, missile platforms, and ODPs. “Drop the energy shield, and let’s get some rescue craft out there! Send two of those battlecarriers back to Ganymede.” They would take time to mourn the dead later, and there were plenty to mourn. Many of whom Weston had come to know very well, and all would be missed.

-

Admiral Reynolds was briefed on the latest reports on the damage suffered by the four antimatter warheads that had detonated on Earth. Two had hit water, causing tsunamis. One had struck near Hong Kong, destroying the city, and the other had come down in a desolate region of Russia. Casualties were estimated to be between ten to twelve million. It would be days before an accurate count was tallied.

“It could have been a lot worse,” commented Colonel Bryson. She and Colonel Williams had been extremely busy, keeping track of everything. “What if they had hit Tokyo or New York City?”

“It’ll take time to rebuild the fleet. At least most of our shipyards survived, and Pallas is still intact.”

“We must build more shipyards,” said Colonel Williams. “If we don’t, the Confederation will return. This time they failed because Rear Admiral Leeson made the ultimate sacrifice.”

Reynolds let out a deep sigh. “He went into cryo just to fight the war. He may very well go down in Earth’s history as its greatest hero.”

“People need heroes,” replied Colonel Williams.

Reynolds nodded. He had known Rear Admiral Leeson very well; they had even become friends. “Take all commands to Condition Two. Once we have completed rescue operations, we’ll go to Condition Three. Also get some rescue vessels out to Titan. I want to know if any survivors are on that moon.” The battle was over, but it would take years to rebuild.

-

On Golan Four in the underground Command Center beneath the capital, High Princess Layla and the others were gathered in a large conference room, reviewing the battle in the Solar System.

“We lost a lot of good people,” said Layla, still stunned as she looked at the latest casualty reports. Even with her Royal training, she had a hard time not reacting emotionally. “When the final numbers come in, we may be looking at somewhere around twenty million dead. We also lost Rear Admiral Leeson, Colonel Henderson, and many more who most of us knew.”

“Fortunately most of the major shipyards survived,” said Fleet Admiral Marloo. “Reconstruction of Earth’s fleet will begin almost immediately. Already discussions are ongoing about building some newer and even larger shipyards. All the Confederation accomplished in their attack was to stir up the people of Earth even more.”

“I was so afraid for Earth,” confessed Krista. She had tears in her eyes for all the people who had died and particularly for the ones she had known personally. “War is a horrible thing!”

“It is,” said Chancellor Stein. “But, sometimes for freedom, a terrible price must be paid. We must ensure the Humans in the Solar System did not die in vain. Rear Admiral Leeson was not afraid to die for that belief.”

Layla looked at Fleet Admiral Marloo. “How soon before Admiral Masters launches his attack?”

Marloo knew the High Princess was deeply concerned for the safety of Admiral Masters, probably even more so after what had happened in the Solar System. “It depends how far he will go into Confederation space. Plus we won’t hear anything from him until his fleet is on the way back.”

Layla let out a deep sigh. So much was happening at once. She just hoped Derrick returned safely to her. Thanks to the Solar System’s victory over the Confederation fleet, they now had a real chance at rebuilding the Empire. If Derrick were successful in his attack on a Confederation world, it would buy the Empire valuable time to add new worlds and to build up their fleet. The Confederation didn’t know it yet, but this war had barely begun.

Chapter Twenty-Two

Pallas Admiral Reynolds was attending a meeting of many of Earth’s political and military leaders and others who were onboard Alpha One in the main conference room. Much anger was directed at what the Confederation fleet had done to the Solar System and at what they had attempted to do to Earth.

“It has been three days since the Confederation fleet was driven from the Solar System,” began Admiral Reynolds. “Total casualties from the attack have exceeded 22 million with another 640,000 still missing.”

Mumbling came from the people in the room. Many had not known what the total casualties would be.

“The hardest hit, besides Earth’s Moon, is Titan, with nearly five million dead. It will take us years to repair the planet’s ecology. We’ve already restarted the terraforming equipment. In the Jovian system, Ganymede and Callisto are both intact and are performing rescue operations on the rest of the Jovian moons.”

“Should we spend the resources to bring Titan back to what it was?” asked President Hughes of the North American Union. “It seems as if being so far out in the Solar System makes it harder to defend.”

“A lot of resources are on the moons of Saturn,” answered Titan’s Governor Blake. “For the immediate future my people will revert to living in domes, but we wish to stay on Titan. It has become our home.”

“We have bought some time,” said Admiral Reynolds. “During that period, we will increase the defenses around all the inhabited planets and moons in the Solar System, including Titan. We will also build more battlecarriers and attack interceptors. The attack interceptors made a huge difference in the battle around Alpha One, and we must have more of them everywhere.”

“Are we certain the Confederation will return?” asked President Chen of China. “We are spending considerable resources on this war effort.”

“They will return,” said Brett Newcomb, representing the Earth Imperials. “They consider all Humans to be a threat, and, after what just happened here, they will be more certain of that than ever. The Confederation covers a large region of space and has almost unlimited resources. In time they will rebuild their fleet, and they will return.”

“What can we do?” asked President Jacques Marlin of the Greater European Union. “We just barely beat them this time, and our fleet has been devastated.”

Councilor Drew Tristan of the Pallas Imperials stood to address the conference. “We must continue to build more warships and to do everything we can to support the reestablishment of the Human Empire. Only the Empire has the necessary resources to fight the Confederation and to keep Earth safe in the long run. This will not be a short war. It may take years to force the Confederation to agree to allow us to live in peace.”

Governor Audrey Fuller of Mars stood to address the conference. “Mars was fortunate to have been spared in this attack. I propose we build two more major shipyards above my planet. It has become very evident that we need a massive fleet, both to defend the Solar System and to help the Empire.”

“We would like to see the two shipyards above Ganymede rebuilt but much larger than what they were,” added Governor Adriana Stone. “We also would like to build a major shipyard above Callisto.”

President Hughes looked at all the people present with determination on his face. “We must strike back at the Confederation as soon as possible. I propose we construct a fleet of at least one thousand ships aimed at attacking Confederation worlds as soon as possible. They must learn there are consequences for their actions. In order to build the ships we need, I suggest we build three more major shipyards above Earth.”

Admiral Reynolds took a deep breath and then spoke. “What we are proposing will require the establishing of many more mining operations throughout the Solar System. While we are building this fleet, we should also build additional defensive systems and thousands of attack interceptors. This will take time and a lot of resources.”

“I have seen the massive crater where Hong Kong once stood,” said President Chen in a solemn voice. “We must do whatever is necessary to win this war and to keep our people safe.”

Admiral Reynolds nodded his head in agreement. “We lost a lot of good people in this recent attack. Rear Admiral Leeson, Colonel Loren Henderson, and many others we all knew very well. If everyone is in agreement, I propose we immediately approve the construction of the proposed shipyards, as well as increase our production of defensive assets and attack interceptors.”

The motion easily carried, with the only major change made to double the current production of battlecarriers. They were deemed necessary to move large numbers of interceptors quickly and efficiently.

“Pallas will make available as many construction robots as needed to work on various projects,” announced Pallas Councilor Drew Tristan. “I’ll have the council give the order to immediately begin expanded production on the robots. Within two months we should have all the robots we will need.”

Reynolds nodded. The specialized construction robots Pallas used would make the work on the shipyards go much faster. With a little luck, all the planned construction could be done in six months or less. In the meantime the shipyards of Earth, Mars, and Pallas would be building warships around the clock to replace those lost in the recent battles.

-

In the Confederation, the Great Council was once more in session. They were reviewing the failed attack on Earth.

“We lost nearly six thousand ships,” said Councilor Clun of the Druins in disbelief. “These small attack craft the Earth Humans use are dangerous. If not for them, I feel certain we could have destroyed the planet.”

“They do pose a problem,” admitted Ardon Reull. “We dare not risk attacking their system again until we have a defense against the small vessels.”

“A new class of warship,” suggested Ralor Conn of the Zynth. “We load it down with point defense designed specifically to destroy the small attack vessels. The weapons on our current ships are all designed to destroy warships at mid or long ranges. They are not designed to destroy vessels flying just above our ships’ energy screens.”

“A light cruiser,” suggested Klug of the Morphenes. “Something of an intermediate size which we could design and produce quickly.”

“Yes,” said Ardon Reull. “I believe that will help solve our problem. I’ll get our ship engineers looking at designs, and I’ll report back to this council for approval, once one has been chosen.”

“I would like the council to be aware of a communication I received from Fleet Admiral Horrabe just before his death,” spoke Councilor Damora. “He felt the Humans of Earth were far more dangerous than those of the Human Empire. Their skills at battle and their ability to constantly change strategy are nearly equal to those of the seven races. He felt that the Humans of Earth might very well be equal in intelligence to that of the seven races.”

“Blasphemy!” growled Druin Councilor Clun. “No other races are our equals.”

“I am only telling you what he said,” replied Damora. He would not use his telepathic abilities in this instance. He had known Fleet Admiral Horrabe very well. If he said these Humans of Earth were dangerous, Damora believed him.

“The surviving ships of the attack fleet will be back in a few weeks,” said Ardon Reull. “Most are damaged and will need repair. In the meantime, I suggest we hold our actions against the Human Empire to a minimum, while we rebuild our fleets. We have lost too many warships recently.”

“What about destroying more of their cities?” asked Clun. “There has been no reprisal for what we did at Ranier Two. I propose we give Admiral Kreen permission to destroy more Human cities to bring an end to this insurrection in Human space. Once we have overtaken all the Human Empire, then we can focus on Earth.”

Ardon Reull shook his head. “No, not yet. We’ll wait for the attack fleet to return. Once it has been repaired, we’ll send it, along with additional fleet units, into Human space to end this insurrection. At that time we may give the approval to destroy more Human cities to bring this insurrection to a quick and rapid end.”

-

Admiral Derrick Masters and his Fifth Fleet sat right on the edge of Confederation space. From his current position, it was a five-day journey to the Druin home system. Derrick was certain the Druins would not be expecting this attack.

“The fleet’s ready,” reported Captain Audrey Banora. For the last several hours Audrey had spoken to the different ship captains, making sure all the vessels in Fifth Fleet were ready for what was ahead of them.

Derrick looked at the tactical display, revealing the green icons of the 151 warships accompanying the Defiant. Derrick had brought his entire command crew onboard, as well as others who were added to the crew throughout the ship. “Keep the battlecarriers Ranger and Intrepid in the center of the formation near the Defiant. We’ll need those two carriers to carry out my attack plan.”

“Course is set,” reported Lieutenant Viktor. “We won’t drop out of hyperspace until we reach the Druin system.”

Taking a deep breath, Derrick looked at Audrey. “Ready for some revenge?”

Audrey smiled. “More than ready. Let’s go kick some Druin ass.”

“Lieutenant Viktor, the fleet is yours. Take us into hyperspace.”

Moments later Derrick felt the Defiant make the transition into hyperspace. They were now on their way to Druin Six, the homeworld of the Druins.

-

Later Derrick was in his quarters, gazing at a picture of Layla. He had a number of pictures of both her and Krista. He suspected by now the attack on Earth was over. He hoped Earth had won. Derrick was fully confident that Admiral Reynolds and Rear Admiral Leeson would successfully defend the Solar System, no matter what the odds were against them.

Laying the picture of Layla on his desk, Derrick began working on his ship’s log. This was a very important mission, and he wanted to keep a written record of everything. One thing he had decided to do, once they launched their attack against Druin Six, was that he would send a brief message back to Golan Four, telling them that he had arrived at his destination. After that it would be necessary to maintain a communications’ blackout so the Confederation could not trace his journey back to the Empire and safety—assuming his fleet could escape the Druin system.

-

Back at the Imperial Palace, Kala stood in the Royal Court, looking around in disbelief. Andrew and Krista stood at her side. “Will I be expected to do anything?”

Krista smiled. “That’s up to you. There will be plenty to do in rebuilding the Empire.”

Kala looked concerned. “I’m more of a research scientist than a politician.”

“Don’t worry,” replied Krista. “Hundreds of jobs in the Palace must be filled. Take all the time you want in picking one. If you decide not to take an active part, that’s fine as well. In the past many of the wives or husbands of the Royal Family stayed in the background.”

Kala bit her lip and shook her head. “No, I want to do something. Give me some time, and I’ll figure it out. Am I to dress like you and High Princess Layla? I don’t even own a gown near as fancy as what the two of you wear.”

Krista laughed. “I hate wearing these gowns, but it’s part of being a Royal. You can probably get by with something a little less extravagant. Let me arrange for Emira to take you shopping. I’m sure she can find some clothes both of you will approve of.”

“Where’s Cheryl staying?” Kala and Cheryl had become good friends, and Kala was glad that Cheryl was here as well. Kala would like to spend some time talking to her. Cheryl might have some useful suggestions.

“She and Dylan have a large home out in the suburbs,” answered Andrew. “We can have a home out in the country as well, if that will make you feel better. However, I must spend considerable time here at the Palace.”

Kala looked around at all the paintings, statues, and tapestries. “Let me think about it. All this is so new. I do want to visit Cheryl as soon as it’s possible.”

Krista nodded her approval. “The transition can be quite a shock. Even I’m still adjusting to being back in the Palace. The only one who seems to be accepting all this without a problem is Layla.”

“She’s always seemed so calm,” replied Kala.

“That’s Layla.”

Looking at Andrew, Kala asked her next question. “You said we had a suite of rooms here at the Palace?”

Andrew smiled. “Yes, let’s go look at them. I’ve only partially decorated and put in some furniture. Krista suggested I wait and let you pick out some of it.”

Kala smiled. “A very wise decision. Let’s go see what you’ve done that I must change.”

-

Admiral Cleemorl was back in the Hagen Star Cluster. The Themis was currently in orbit around Tantula Five. On the main viewscreen, a flight of attack interceptors was leaving the shipyard to go on patrol. Already the shipyard had been expanded, and swarms of construction robots were visible everywhere.

“Next convoy with defense grid components is due to arrive tomorrow,” reported Captain Fulmar.

Dylan nodded. Already a number of convoys had arrived from the core worlds. ODPs had been put into orbit around Tantula Five and the inhabited moon of Gideon. Large numbers of missile platforms and energy beam satellites had been placed in orbit as well. In addition, construction facilities had been set up on the surface of Tantula Five, and the first attack interceptor produced on the planet was only two weeks away.

“We have convoys arriving over the next few weeks, loaded with defense grid elements for the other six major inhabited worlds in the cluster.”

All seven worlds, plus the moon of Gideon, and three other heavily populated moons had agreed to join the Empire if defense grid elements were provided. Around each of the major worlds, shipyards were expanded, and ground facilities were being built to construct the attack interceptors, plus additional defensive grid elements.

Dylan was confident that, in a few months, the Hagen Star Cluster would be nearly as heavily held as the core worlds. All it lacked was a major warfleet. Dylan planned on keeping the Themis here for another two weeks, at which time all the worlds and major moons would have powerful defensive grids around them. He would also leave part of First Fleet to protect the cluster until new warships were available.

“We’re making progress,” said Captain Fulmar approvingly.

“Governor Dyson and Governor Bloom have been very supportive,” replied Dylan. “They will make fine members to the House of Worlds.”

“I’ll be glad when substantial numbers of warships begin rolling out of the shipyards in the core worlds. With the losses we suffered at Earth, our fleets are the weakest they’ve ever been.”

Dylan nodded. He had been greatly saddened to hear of Rear Admiral Leeson’s and Colonel Loren Henderson’s deaths. People died in war, and nothing could be done to prevent that.

“What’s Cheryl doing while you’re gone?”

Dylan laughed. “She’s setting up her restaurant and entertainment bar business on the core worlds.”

“Is she keeping everything legal?”

Frowning, Dylan shook his head. “I doubt it. She has a tendency to bend the rules as far as she can. When I get back, I’ll visit several of her establishments, without her knowledge, just so I can see what’s going on.”

“She’s a spitfire,” replied Fulmar, grinning. “You picked yourself one hell of a woman.”

“We’ve been in love since we were kids. It’s unfortunate my decision to join the secret military drove us apart.”

“Those were tough days. You can’t really blame her.”

“No, I couldn’t, and I never did.”

“When we get back, you will have some leave coming. Any big plans?”

Dylan nodded. “We may go to Glimmerr for a week and spend some time on its beaches.” Glimmer was 80 percent water and had some of the most beautiful resorts and beaches in the core worlds.

“You deserve some time off. Glimmerr sounds like just the place.”

Dylan grinned. “Besides, Cheryl is a knockout in a bikini.”

Both men laughed. It was good to share some humor with all that had been going on recently.

“It’s been really quiet in our sector recently,” said Dylan, as he read over some of the latest communication dispatches. “The Confederation fleets that are still active seem more interested in taking over all the Human worlds on the periphery and in the more desolate regions.”

Captain Fulmar nodded. “It’s almost as if they’re avoiding a major battle.”

“Or they were waiting to find out what happened at Earth. Now they must know, and I’m curious to see what their reaction will be.”

“We need another month with no major fleet actions,” said Fulmar. “Another month and we’ll be ready here, and many other Human worlds will have adequate defenses.”

Dylan currently had a few warships in all seven of the major Human systems in the Hagen Star Cluster. Not only that, he had a dreadnought with an escort of ten battlecruisers routinely dropping in on all the colonized moons and even some of the more out-of-the-way mining operations. Dylan was determined to hold the entire cluster for the Empire.

-

Kala stood in the large suite of rooms assigned to Andrew. “So, if I agree to move in here, we would be waited on hand and foot?”

“If that’s what you want. A full kitchen staff is on duty from early in the morning until late in the evening. Even then, if you wanted something in the middle of the night, a small staff is always on call. The suite is cleaned once a day. They do your laundry, and you have a monthly household budget for any other items you may want.”

“The Palace does not seem very busy. I was expecting more people.”

“Give it time. Layla’s already making plans to open up the Palace more. Soon we’ll have large crowds of people coming to see the Princesses and to experience the Royal Court. As more worlds are added to the House of Worlds, we can expect to see even more people coming to the Royal Court. Layla plans on opening it to the public several days a week, where she or Krista will be present to answer questions or to make decisions. In the past the Royals were often used to settle public disputes.”

Kala stepped outside onto a large balcony, furnished with a table and several comfortable chairs. She looked out over the city and the soaring sky towers of the Palace. “I think I would like to stay here for a while. Maybe later we might look at getting a small place out in the country for an occasional weekend getaway.”

About that time Krista came into the room with Emira in tow. “I believe the two of you met back on Pallas.”

Emira bowed toward Andrew and then looked at Kala with a big smile. “It is good to see the Royal Family growing larger. Princess Krista says you may need some suggestions as to appropriate clothing to wear.”

Kala nodded. “I have some simple dresses and such, but nothing really fancy. I have no idea what I should be wearing around here.”

“Not a problem. As soon as you’re settled in, I’ll take you shopping. I need to get a few things for Krista as well. Several clothing stores will have what we need.” Emira paused and looked at Andrew. “I don’t intend to be too personal, but do the two of you plan on getting married anytime soon?”

Krista laughed. “She does like to get personal. However, she does do a very good job of taking care of me. I don’t know what I would do without her.”

Andrew grinned. “The question is fine. Kala and I have discussed getting married, but, with everything going on, we have never gotten around to further discussions on the matter.”

Emira turned toward Kala. “When you and Andrew get married, you will be considered a Princess through marriage.” Emira looked back at Andrew. “How soon?”

“Emira!” burst out Krista.

“It will determine the clothes we will get.”

“It’s all right,” said Kala, smiling. “We can set a wedding date whenever Andrew wishes to. It can be tomorrow or a year from now.”

Andrew grinned. “I think tomorrow sounds great to me.”

Emira shook her head. “I don’t think so, young man. This will be a Royal Wedding and a big deal. It may very well be broadcast over all the core worlds.”

Kala’s eyes widened in shock. “I always wanted a big wedding, but I never expected something like this.”

“How long will it take to do all this?” asked Andrew. He had no idea getting married to Kala would be such a big deal. He had always planned on a small intimate wedding.

“Let me speak to High Princess Layla and Chancellor Stein. I believe we could have something set up in three or four weeks.”

“A wedding!” squealed Krista excitedly. “I want to help in the planning.”

Kala let out a deep sigh. “I think I’ll need your help, a lot of help.”

Andrew grinned. For the first time he saw Kala actually overwhelmed. “We must get your father here to give you away.”

“That will take around four weeks,” replied Kala.

“Then we have a tentative wedding date,” said Emira. “If you will contact your father, I’ll start organizing everything else. Come with me, Princess Krista. If you want to help, we have a lot of planning to do.”

Andrew and Kala watched the two leave. “I never thought I would be a Princess.”

Andrew took Kala into his arms and kissed her. “Don’t worry. I didn’t think I would ever be a Prince either, and here we are.”

For a few precious moments the two stood, thinking about their future together. The war had vanished from their minds. There would be time for that later.

Chapter Twenty-Three

Druin Admiral Kreen was becoming more impatient with every passing day of inactivity. He had the warships; he just needed permission from the Great Council to act.

“Still no word from the council?” asked First Officer Falorr. “Rumors are going around the fleet that the attack on Earth has failed.”

“The council isn’t speaking of that either,” replied Kreen, folding his massive arms across his chest. “I’ve asked them, and all I’ve been told is there will be an announcement soon.”

First Officer Falorr looked at Admiral Kreen. “What if the attack has failed?”

“It couldn’t fail. The Humans are a semibarbarian species. The fleet that Admiral Horrabe has under his command should easily be able to subdue the Earth system and wipe all its planets and moons of this scourge.” That’s what Kreen believed, but the continued silence from the Great Council worried him.

Kreen stood and walked to the large viewscreen, focused on the Human world beneath his fleet. It was a minor Human world with a population of only fifty million and no defense grid, and the planet’s governor had capitulated as soon as the Druin fleet went into orbit. That had been over a week ago. Since then the Druin fleet had continued to orbit the planet, waiting on additional orders from the council. Orders which had not yet been received.

“Three Human systems are near us with large populations and moderate defense grids,” said Falorr. “We could take them.”

Admiral Kreen slowly shook his head. “All three worlds have not declared themselves for this new Human Empire. Because of the size of their populations, if we attack, the Empire might come to their aid. We’ve been ordered by the Great Council not to become involved in any major fleet battles at this time. While I disagree with the Great Council’s order, for the time being, we have no choice but to obey.” What Kreen didn’t add was that he had already been informed by Councilor Clun that, if Kreen disobeyed the council’s direct orders again, he would be removed from command.

-

Admiral Masters was back in the Command Center of the Defiant. Fifth Fleet was now deep into Confederation space. The long-range sensors constantly sounded warnings of enemy ships in various nearby star systems.

“We are staying well clear of all systems inhabited by any of the seven races,” Captain Banora informed the admiral. “As long as we stay in hyperspace, we should be safe.”

Derrick nodded as he sat down in his command chair. The next few days would be nerve-wracking. Their target was deep in Confederation space, and, once they struck it, every warship in the Confederation would be seeking out Fifth Fleet, if it survived the attack on Druin Six.

“Let’s run some battle drills and damage-control drills to give our crews something to do. No need for them to sit around and to worry about what’s ahead of us.” He didn’t want the crews to worry, as Derrick would be doing enough worrying for them all.

Audrey nodded her agreement. “I’ll set them up immediately.”

-

On the planet Morag Prime, the Morag High Council was meeting. No member of any other race had ever been allowed to land on Morag Prime or on any of the primary worlds of the Morag.

“Fleet Admiral Horrabe has been lost to us,” sent Addonis, the current leader of the council. In their meetings, the council tended to communicate using telepathy, as it was quicker and more efficient.

“An unfortunate loss,” replied Delann, the only female on the council. “We should promote another admiral immediately.”

“This message that Fleet Admiral Horrabe sent before his death is worrisome,” sent Hiram. “He claimed these Earth Humans may be as intelligent as the seven races.”

“And even more dangerous than the Humans of the Empire,” added Delann. “Is that possible?”

“Anything is possible,” answered Addonis. “Fleet Admiral Horrabe was a brilliant strategist. That is why he was chosen to lead the Confederation fleet. His failure does seem to indicate we must take a closer look at these Earth Humans.”

“We could send a large Morag fleet to deal with Earth,” suggested Brant.

Addonis shook his head. “No, the other six races of the Confederation have no real knowledge of the number of worlds we inhabit or the actual size of our fleet. It is why we have restricted access to our space to all but a few trading ships and why we control the minds of the captains of those vessels.”

What no other race knew was that the Morag maintained a large warfleet of nearly 15,000 vessels, which they very seldom used. They also inhabited 112 planets in ninety-two different star systems plus numerous inhabited moons. The other members of the seven races thought the Morag numbers were far less and their fleet only a fraction of its true size.

“What about the war in the Human Empire?” asked Delann. “Their core worlds are firmly under the control of this High Princess and their new military.”

“When the time is right, we will use our fleet to crush them. For now we will allow the other six races to wage the war and to reduce the number of worlds this new Human Empire controls. As soon as the Confederation fleet returns from Earth, I will instruct Councilor Damora to convince the Great Council to order the repairs of the other races’ ships. The Confederation fleet shall be reinforced with ships from the other races and then sent back to the Empire. At that time we will allow the bombing of Human cities to bring the Empire into submission. Once the Human Empire is fully under our control, we will send a Morag fleet to deal with Earth. Six months from now this war with the Human Empire will be over, and Earth destroyed.”

-

For the next hour the Morag High Council discussed their plans for eventual domination over the other six races and the Morag’s continued expansion of the Confederation. In time, the galaxy would be under their firm control. The only obstacle was the Humans, and that inconvenience would soon be dealt with.

-

A couple days later Kala met Cheryl for lunch. She felt uneasy with two Imperial Guards accompanying her everywhere she went. When she arrived at the restaurant, she was immediately ushered inside, while the two guards waited near the entrance.

Kala saw Cheryl and sat down and smiled. “Let me guess. You own this place?”

Cheryl nodded. “I’m putting in an entire string of family restaurants, featuring Earth food. It seems to be very popular.”

Looking around, Kala saw a large number of couples and also entire families at other tables. The lighting was moderate, and soft music played in the background. Enticing aromas of various foods were prevalent, making Kala’s stomach growl.

“It’s a little tame for you, isn’t it?” Kala had visited several of Cheryl’s entertainment bars back on Pallas out of curiosity.

Grinning, Cheryl nodded. “Some, but they pay well, and I know Dylan will approve. I also have a larger string of entertainment bars I’m putting on all the core worlds. Where there’s a large military, there’s money to be made.”

“What does Dylan think of all this?”

Cheryl laughed. “I have some restrictions. I’m not allowed to leave the core worlds, and I must have an armed military escort wherever I go. After what happened when I went to Highland Station, I won’t protest.”

A somber looked crossed Kala’s face. “I heard about that. It must have been horrible.”

“Yes, it was the most harrowing thing I’ve ever experienced. What made it even worse was that Dylan had warned me about going off on my own.”

Kala’s eyes narrowed, and she spoke in a slightly lower voice. “I visited several of your entertainment bars on Pallas.”

A grin crossed Cheryl’s face. “I bet you didn’t stay long.”

“No, I didn’t. The servers and the women dancing were barely covered. They showed a lot more skin than I felt comfortable with.”

“Part of the business,” answered Cheryl. “Dylan does not care for it either, but, when your main clientele is the military, often you’re dealing with crews who have been gone from home for weeks or even months, and you give them what they want.”

Kala slowly nodded her head. “I guess I can understand that.”

A waitress came over and filled their two crystal glasses with Carlish and placed a menu in front of Kala.

“I would recommend the Karlen. It’s very similar to Earth lobster. That’s one of Earth’s seafoods I’m still having trouble procuring, due to harvesting limits on Earth. I’m thinking about importing some and starting a few growing farms on Glimmerr.”

Kala placed her order and took a sip of the Carlish. She loved the slight strawberry taste. “Do you really need to be doing all this?”

“No, not really. But I enjoy staying busy, and it gives me something to do when Dylan is away from Golan Four. So, I hear you’re moving into the Palace.”

“Yes, at least for now. I told Andrew that I wouldn’t mind having a small house somewhere out in the country, just to get away on occasion.”

Cheryl took a drink of her Carlish and gestured toward the door, where the two Imperial Guards stood. “See those guards? They’re a part of your life from now on. Wherever you and Andrew go, they will be with you. Even if you get a house out in the country, Imperial Guards will be there as well. They will be discreet and will keep their distance when possible, but they are now a part of your life.”

Kala let out a deep sigh. “Krista and I discussed that. Imperial Guards are not allowed in the residential wing of the Imperial Palace, where we will be living, though guards will be stationed at all the entrances, in case they are ever needed.”

Cheryl laughed. “You do know that, on several occasions, Krista has succeeded in sneaking out of the Palace to visit Major Barkley. Layla threw a fit the first time she found out. It seems that Layla had been limiting the frequency of Krista’s visits with Mathew. I believe they have now worked out a compromise, allowing Mathew to come to the Palace more often for supervised visits.”

“Krista does seem more adventurous.”

Cheryl continued. “Layla has been trained all her life to someday lead the Empire. With her cousin Krista not first in line to the throne, Krista did not worry about someday wearing the crown, so her training was not quite as extensive.”

“You sure seem to know a lot about what’s been going on.”

Cheryl nodded. “I have my sources.”

The waitress returned with their salads, and Kala noticed they were very similar to what she would have with her meal on Earth. Cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, green peppers, lettuce, a couple slices of onion, and a choice of several dressings. Kala would remember this. At least if she ate at one of Cheryl’s restaurants, she would know what the food was.

-

The two sat in the restaurant for nearly two hours, talking and just enjoying each other’s company. Kala had found the Karlen to be as tasty as lobster, and, for dessert, they had a decadent piece of four-layered chocolate cake.

Finally Kala let out a deep breath, as she finished off her third glass of Carlish. “I better go. Andrew will be wondering where I vanished to.”

“Don’t worry,” replied Cheryl. “I’m sure the Imperial Guards have already informed him where you’re at.”

A concerned look crossed Kala’s face. “I don’t need to look for hidden cameras or recording devices in my quarters, do I?” If she wanted to walk around naked in her own rooms, she didn’t want to worry about being recorded.

Cheryl laughed and shook her head. “No, they don’t go that far. The privacy of the Royal Family in their personal quarters is highly regarded. It’s the one place you don’t have to act like a Royal. So, have you and Andrew set a firm wedding date?”

Kala smiled and nodded. “Five weeks from now. That gives my father time to get here and for us to plan everything. I had another reason that I wanted to talk to you today. Would you consider being my Matron of Honor?”

Cheryl looked surprised and then nodded. “Sure. I would love to.”

A few minutes later, Kala left the restaurant, escorted by her two Imperial Guards. Today she had taken several important steps in her wedding plans. She just hoped nothing interfered. She knew full well a war was going on, and, in a war situation, one never knew what might happen.

-

Derrick was in the Command Center of the Defiant, watching as the first long-distance scans of the Druins’ home system came in. He had sent several battlecruisers ahead of the fleet to scan the system at extreme ranges and then to relay the information back to the Defiant.

“Our scouts counted 914 warships,” commented Captain Audrey Banora. “I expected more.”

Derrick had also. “Keep in mind they sent a fleet with the Confederation force to attack the Solar System, and they have a fleet under Admiral Kreen in the Empire. They must have task groups protecting their other primary systems.”

“Not detecting any defensive grid,” continued Audrey, shaking her head. “Are they so egocentric to believe no one would dare attack their homeworld?”

“Seems so. Yes. The Druins are one of the seven races and think no one else in the galaxy matters,” replied Derrick. “They look down on all other races. The very thought of their worlds being attacked by a species such as ours is nearly incomprehensible to them.”

Audrey checked the time. “We’re about four hours out. Are we ready for this?”

A wolfish grin crossed Derrick’s face. “We’re about to extract revenge for one thousand years of the Druins’ bombing cities in the Empire. Billions of people have died, and that does not include those taken to the Confederation for the Lamothians to feed upon.”

Audrey nodded.

“Get me the captains of the Ranger and the Intrepid. It’s time for us to go over our plan of battle one final time. We’ll only get one shot at striking the Druin homeworld, and I don’t want anyone to screw it up.”

-

High Princess Layla was pacing in her quarters. By now Derrick had either attacked the Druin homeworld or was about to. Several picket ships were out close to the Confederation, monitoring communications. A sudden increase in hyperlight messages would be a good indicator that he had launched his attack.

“Sit down,” said Krista, who already sat on one of the comfortable couches. “We can do nothing but wait.”

Layla turned to face her cousin. “I hate this waiting. We don’t know if they were successful, if the entire fleet was wiped out, if they’re on their way home, or even if they’ve attacked yet.”

Krista stood, poured Layla a glass of ice water, and handed it to her. “I’m afraid to give you anything stronger.”

Layla frowned but accepted the glass and took a deep drink. “When Derrick returns, we’re setting a wedding date. I don’t want to wait any longer.”

“Don’t forget. Kala and Andrew are getting married in about five weeks. She’s already sent for her father.”

“I’m glad they’re getting married,” replied Layla, as she walked to the balcony to gaze out over the city. “It will be good for the Empire and a huge morale booster. Derrick and I can have our wedding a month or two after theirs.”

Krista came closer to stand next to Layla. It was getting dark outside, and the city lights were coming on. The sky towers were lit up in blue lighting, as well as the sky bridges. “The work on the Palace is nearly complete and so is the House of Worlds.”

Layla stared up toward space. “Chancellor Stein and his people have done a fantastic job. The Palace almost looks as it did when we were children.”

“Emira and I went shopping with Kala yesterday. We picked out several gowns suitable for Royal activities and a number of others that were more casual. Emira even let me pick out some that I consider more reasonable. However, I’m only allowed to wear them in the Royal Residence sections.”

“You must mean that short skirt that comes to just above your knees,” replied Layla, glancing at her cousin. “I’m sure Mathew will like it.”

Krista blushed. “I’m sure he will, though I haven’t worn it for him yet.” Krista looked at Layla and then hesitantly spoke, hoping not to offend her cousin. “Why don’t you buy a few items to wear just for Derrick?”

Layla turned red and gazed in shock at Krista. “Krista! Some things must wait until you’re married, since we are Royals.”

Laughing, Krista shook her head. “I didn’t mean it had to be that sexy. But we’re both young, and, at times, we should enjoy being ourselves. It doesn’t hurt for us to dress as others our age do, at least in the Royal Residence section of the Palace.”

Layla’s shoulders drooped slightly. “You’re saying I’m too focused on putting the Empire back together and not paying enough attention to Derrick.”

“When was the last time you and Derrick did anything where someone else wasn’t around?”

Layla looked a little uncomfortable. “Krista, I don’t trust myself to be alone with Derrick.”

“Then trust Derrick. He’s too good of a man to take advantage of you, at least not too much of an advantage.”

Layla turned back to the view of the city. A number of lit aircars could now be seen in the corridors high above. “I’m not sure I can do both. Derrick and the Empire.”

“Yes, you can! Our parents found a way, or we wouldn’t be here.”

Taking a deep breath, Layla slowly nodded her head. “You’re right, of course. When Derrick returns, I’ll try to arrange more quality time for the both of us.”

“Have you talked to Kala since she moved in with Andrew?”

“Once,” replied Layla. “I should speak with her more. If she and Andrew are getting married, that will make her a Royal Princess by marriage. I should find out what duties she would like to be involved in.”

“The more of us there are, the less work will be on your shoulders. Didn’t our parents always lecture us about giving others responsibilities?”

Layla nodded. “You’re right. Again. Andrew is already proving to be very useful in his role.”

“Look at Derrick. He’s off leading what may be the most important military mission of the war. He did not hesitate to take that responsibility upon his shoulders. We have people who want to help us. We must learn to accept that help when it’s practical.”

Layla started laughing. “I can’t believe what just happened. Instead of me lecturing you, you’ve been lecturing me, and I deserved it.” Layla turned and hugged Krista. “I’m so glad you’re my cousin.”

“Me too, but let me go. You’re squeezing all the air out of me.”

Layla did so. “I’ll schedule a meeting with Kala tomorrow and see what Royal duties she may be interested in. I’ll suggest she get involved slowly, until she decides what role she wants to fulfill. We also need to discuss this upcoming Royal wedding.”

“Yes, we do. It’ll be gigantic!”

Layla laughed. “That’s what I’m afraid of.” Layla had already heard a few rumors of some of the things being planned for Andrew and Kala’s wedding. Layla wondered what hers would be like.

-

“Two hours,” reported Captain Banora. “Fleet is still at Condition Three.”

“We’ll go to Condition Two twenty minutes before hyperspace dropout and then Condition One ten minutes before we enter the system. Have our advanced scouts located any additional targets?” Derrick referred to the two battlecruisers now in the extreme outer regions of the Druin Six System.

“They found four large shipyards around Druin Six, as well as three massive space stations,” answered Audrey. “All are armed and have energy shield emitters, though none of the shields are currently active. Also a number of large mining operations are on some of the other planets and moons. All could be considered tempting targets.”

“Put the latest sensor data up on the holographic tactical display.”

A huge display of the space around Druin Six appeared directly in front of Derrick. He got up and walked around the display, seeking a weakness they could exploit. “The Druins are not scanning the approaches to their system. They don’t believe they’re in danger of being attacked. After all, who would dare to attack one of the homeworlds of the seven races?”

Audrey grinned. “We would.”

Derrick took a laser pointer and indicated two of the large shipyards and one of the space stations. “We’ll drop out of hyperspace near all three of these. As soon as we do, we’ll hit them with a full missile strike. Assign ships to make sure we hit all three hard. If we’re a little lucky, we’ll have blown all three of them to hell before the Druins even realize what happened. Then I want all ships to launch full barrages of antimatter missiles toward the planet.”

“They won’t get through,” said Audrey, frowning. “The Druin fleet is in orbit above the planet and should intercept all our missiles.”

“I know,” replied Derrick. “That’s what I’m counting on. I want to keep their fleet busy.”

Audrey nodded. “We’re taking a big risk, but, if it works, we might just be able to strike their planet.”

“We’ll know soon. Let’s make our final preparations. We need to contact some ships to explain their parts in the upcoming battle.”

Sitting back down in his command chair, Derrick gazed at the holographic display. The Druins didn’t know it, but the Humans were coming to avenge their billons of dead. For the Druins, there would be no mercy!

Chapter Twenty-Four

The Fifth Fleet dropped out of hyperspace nearly on top of the two shipyards and the space station, which Admiral Masters had designated as their first targets. As soon as the systems of the warships stabilized, antimatter and fusion missiles launched from their missile tubes. The shipyards and space station were in high orbits above the planet and easy targets.

All three were struck before they could raise their energy shields. Massive explosions broke off huge sections of the shipyards, and those were quickly riddled by fusion energy beams. The space station had less armor and, in just a few moments, had been obliterated.

-

In the Command Center of the Defiant, Derrick watched in satisfaction as the two shipyards and the space station were pulverized. Finally the two shipyards exploded, sending flaming debris in all directions. Much of the debris fell toward the planet.

“Primary targets annihilated,” said Captain Banora exuberantly. “Launching two missile barrages at the planet. Once those have been launched, we will target the orbiting warships.”

Derrick leaned forward in his command chair. Depending on how quickly the orbiting Druin fleet responded, there was a chance that some missiles might sneak through.

-

Druin Admiral Kotare had his meal interrupted when the emergency klaxons sounded and then the first officer’s voice came over the ship’s comm system, summoning him to the Command Center.

Leaving his partially eaten meal behind, Kotare hurried to the Command Center, anxious to find out what was going on. He wasn’t quite there when the ship shook violently, throwing him to the deck. Getting back up, he made it to the Command Center and sat down in his command chair. “Report!” His gaze went to the tactical display, instantly noticing a large number of red threat icons. Even more worrisome, two of the shipyards and one of the space stations were massive debris fields.

“A Human fleet is attacking us,” reported First Officer Madoll. “They dropped out of hyperspace and destroyed two of the shipyards and one of our space stations before they could get their energy shields up. They are currently launching antimatter missiles toward Druin Six, as well as our fleet units. I have instructed our ships to intercept the missiles.”

Admiral Kotare knew this attack was the result of Admiral Kreen’s destruction of a Human city on Ranier Two. “Put Druin Six up on the viewscreen.”

The main viewscreen switched to show the planet, just as an antimatter missile detonated on the surface. A huge flash of light indicated a massive area of destruction.

“Are these the only Human ships attacking us?”

“Yes, Admiral.”

“Order all our fleet to form up around us. As soon as we have done so, we will move out and destroy these Humans. We vastly outnumber them. They must have hoped the element of surprise would allow them to destroy our planet. Well, it did not work.” He noted his ships were now intercepting all the missiles being fired at the planet. However, four huge mushroom clouds were already rising. Admiral Kotare knew that millions of Druins were probably dead.

-

“Four missiles got through,” said Audrey, the sound of satisfaction in her voice. “Druin warships are now intercepting our missiles. They are also forming up into one large formation.”

“We will do the same,” said Derrick. “Form up into a wedge formation, and we’ll see how many of these Druin ships we can destroy.” Now the battle would grow more interesting. He was also surprised four missiles had gotten through.

-

The Great Council had been called into an emergency session once more.

“I’ve just received a report that a Human warfleet is attacking Druin Six,” said an extremely agitated Druin, Councilor Clun. “Already we have lost two of our shipyards, one of our space stations, and four antimatter missiles have struck the surface, killing millions. Admiral Kotare is even now forming our fleet to destroy these interloping Humans.”

“So, their threat to destroy one of our worlds if we destroyed any of their cities was not a bluff,” said Ardon Reull, his cold and hard eyes focusing on Clun. “You have Admiral Kreen to blame for this, and he disobeyed a direct order from this council in destroying the Human capital city on Ranier Two.”

Clun did not reply. However, his eyes were red with rage, his control over his emotions forgotten. “We must send ships to Druin Six to ensure the destruction of this Human fleet!”

“What if more Human fleets are in the Confederation?” asked the Lamothian Councilor. “If we send any of our fleets, we could be leaving our own worlds open to attack.”

Ardon Reull slowly nodded his head. “The Lamothian Councilor is correct. We dare not move any of our fleets until we know more. I suggest you move more of your own fleets from your other worlds to assist in defending your homeworld.”

The Druin Councilor stood and stormed out of the Great Council’s chambers.

Councilor Damora slowly nodded to himself. The Druins had brought this attack upon themselves. In recent years the Druins had demonstrated their desire for war was greater than their concern for the Confederation. This would be a good lesson for them.

-

In the Druin system, the two fleets had now closed to optimum engagement range. Missiles and fusion energy beams were being exchanged at a maximum rate. Ships on both sides were being destroyed or damaged. In the Human fleet, when a ship was damaged, it pulled back to the rear of the formation to conduct repairs.

Captain Banora shook her head. “We’re just too badly outnumbered. We’re losing two ships for every one of theirs we destroy. We’re just fortunate this Druin fleet does not have a lot of battleships.”

That also had surprised Derrick. Only twelve battleships were in the entire Druin formation. “Are all the Druin warships in that formation?” Derrick felt the Defiant shake from a missile strike to its energy shield.

Audrey spent a moment closely examining the sensor readings. “Yes, all their ships are in their fleet and are currently engaged with us.”

Derrick nodded. It was time to play his hidden ace. “Contact the Ranger and the Intrepid and tell them operation Archangel is a go.”

-

Onboard the Ranger, Captain Drake received the message. A grin that almost looked evil crossed his face. “Prepare for a hyperspace jump to the far side of the planet away from the battle. As soon as all systems are stabilized, launch the interceptors.”

Both carriers transported the maximum load of interceptors at 140 each. Each interceptor was armed with four fusion-tipped missiles.

“Course plotted,” reported the navigation officer.

“Very well, take us to Condition One and prepare to jump.”

Moments later both the Ranger and the Intrepid vanished, as they entered hyperspace heading toward their target.

-

Druin Admiral Kotare was satisfied with the progress of the battle. He was slowly annihilating the invading Human fleet. With every passing minute, his numerical advantage increased. He wondered why the Human fleet didn’t flee. With his fleet blocking access to the planet, they could no longer strike it with missiles.

-

“Captain Banora, have the Aloran jump out to the edge of the system and send this hyperlight message to Golan Four. Attack has commenced, two large shipyards and one space station destroyed. Four antimatter strikes on the planet so far. Preparing to launch main attack against the planet. Meeting heavy resistance.” Derrick at least wanted Layla and the other members of the military to know the attack was in progress. Once it was over, and they had to flee the system, it would be necessary to maintain hyperlight communication silence.

Two green icons appearing on the other side of the planet drew his attention. He quickly dispatched a dreadnought and ten battlecruisers to provide cover for the battlecarriers. Time for the main part of this operation to commence.

-

Onboard the battlecarriers, the interceptors were launched as rapidly as possible. Each pair rapidly headed toward the planet to deliver their load of fusion missiles. In less than four minutes all 280 interceptors were inbound toward their targets. Combined they had over eleven hundred missiles to deliver.

Admiral Kotare had noticed the arrival of the Human carriers and instantly dispatched a force of twenty battlecruisers to deal with them. They arrived at the same time as the Human battlecruisers and the one dreadnought. Heavy weapons fire instantly broke out, preventing the cruisers and the battlecarriers from targeting the planet with their missiles. With deep concern, Admiral Kotare dispatched an additional eighty battlecruisers and two battleships to protect the planet, but the interceptors had already been launched.

-

Derrick smiled as he saw the small green icons, representing the interceptors, swoop down into the planet’s atmosphere. If the interceptors could deliver all their missiles, it would effectively kill the planet. The Defiant shook violently, and a console exploded in a shower of hot sparks, smoke forming in the Command Center. Derrick coughed as the ventilation system struggled to clear the air.

“Energy beam penetrated a weak section of our energy screen,” reported Audrey. “We’ve directed more power to the screen.”

Derrick nodded. The battle was becoming brutal. His fleet must survive for another few minutes, and then they could pull out. On one of the viewscreens, a Human battlecruiser was torn apart by intense fusion weapons fire from several Druin warships. On another screen, one of Fifth Fleet’s dreadnoughts had been torn in two by a fusion missile.

“Admiral, we’re losing three ships now to every Druin warship we destroy,” reported Audrey, growing more concerned.

“Just a few more minutes,” replied Derrick. “We must give the interceptors time to deliver their missiles and to get back to their carriers.”

Audrey let out a deep breath. “We may not have much of a fleet left by then.”

Derrick knew Audrey was right. But it was a risk they must take.

-

The interceptors descended to twenty kilometers above the surface and launched their small fusion-tipped missiles. The missiles streaked toward the ground, detonating fifteen hundred meters above it. Blast waves and tremendous heat radiated outward from the explosions, destroying everything in their path. Across the planet hundreds of mushroom clouds rose into the atmosphere.

-

Admiral Kotare gazed at the viewscreen, his blood running cold. Across the home planet, devastation ran rampant. He knew beneath those rising clouds of death that millions, perhaps billions of Druins were dying.

“This is all Admiral Kreen’s fault!” he raged, his eyes turning red in anger. Very seldom did Admiral Kotare lose his self-control, but seeing the home planet dying right in front of him had broken his control over his emotions. “I want those carrier ships destroyed! Shoot down all those small attack vessels, even if our battlecruisers must venture down into the atmosphere.”

-

Across the planet, the interceptors streaked about, searching for and finding numerous targets. Factories, cities, infrastructure, military bases, and even dams were targets of the fusion missiles the interceptors carried. As soon as each interceptor had expended its four missiles, it turned and headed back to the carriers. No one wanted to be left behind.

-

In space, the battle around the battlecarriers intensified. Some interceptors were destroyed before they could land, and others were caught in the cross fire between the two battling groups of ships.

In a sudden massive explosion, the rear half of the Intrepid was blown apart from the direct hit of a fusion missile where its energy shield had weakened. All the rest of the returning interceptors were directed to land on the Ranger.

“Last missiles have been launched,” confirmed the communications officer. “All interceptors returning.”

The Ranger shook violently, and several red lights appeared on the damage control console. “Tell all the pilots they have five minutes to get back, if they don’t want to be left behind. Have our escorts close with the Ranger to keep some of the pressure off while we land our interceptors.”

Captain Drake winced as two more incoming interceptors were blown apart just short of the ship. Four more managed to weave through the weapons fire to land.

-

Derrick slowly pulled back Fifth Fleet. From the latest reports, he knew he had already lost nearly half of the ships he had come into this battle with. “How long until the Ranger is ready to jump?” He had watched the Intrepid die on the tactical display.

“Three minutes,” answered Audrey. “All interceptors are heading toward the Ranger.”

Taking a deep breath, Derrick issued his next order. “All ships stand by to enter hyperspace as soon as the Ranger is safely away.” The Defiant shook again. Smoke remained in the Command Center, and several technicians were working on consoles, trying to bring them back online. The damage control console showed considerable damage to the dreadnought but none of it severe enough to hamper its fighting ability.

-

Druin Admiral Kotare stared at the main viewscreen, revealing the ruins of the Druin homeworld. Already the atmosphere was turning dark from the ash and smoke. Lightning flashed across the debris clouds, making the scene even more ominous.

“Confirmed over one thousand fusion detonations,” reported First Officer Madoll. “We only have scattered communication with a few transmitters on the surface. The radiation count is rapidly climbing.”

Kotare knew the homeworld was doomed. The Humans had done just what they said they would if any of their cities were destroyed. “Contact the Great Council and inform them what has happened. Send sensor readings and video of the planet. They must be made aware of the scope of this disaster.”

-

Captain Drake watched as the last interceptor landed. Of the 280 launched between the two battlecarriers, only 78 had made it safely back to the Ranger. “Let’s get out of here. Notify Admiral Masters we’re jumping.”

Moments later the Ranger and its six surviving escorts vanished from the space above the destroyed planet.

-

“Take us into hyperspace,” ordered Derrick, as the Defiant shook so violently that Derrick was afraid it was about to come apart around him.

Moments later the shaking stopped, and an eerie quiet encompassed the Command Center.

“Successful entry into hyperspace,” announced Audrey with tremendous relief in her voice. “For a second there I didn’t think we would make it.”

“Neither did I,” admitted Derrick. “Send a brief hyperlight message to Golan Four. “Mission accomplished, returning home. Then we go into a communications blackout until we’re safely out of Confederation space.”

Derrick waited until the message was sent. “How many ships made it out with us?”

Audrey shook her head. “Forty-eight battlecruisers, six dreadnoughts, and the battlecarrier Ranger.”

Derrick blinked his eyes. That was a little less than one-third of the ships his Fifth Fleet had gone into battle with. He hoped it was worth it.

-

Layla paced in the underground Command Center. They had just received a brief message that Fifth Fleet had begun their attack on the Druin home planet. Already they had hit the planet with four antimatter missiles, destroyed two large shipyards and one space station.

“He’s making them pay,” said General Gantts, a note of satisfaction in her voice.

Layla didn’t say anything. She was too worried about Derrick and if he would get away safely. She didn’t realize until now just how much she was coming to depend on him.

“We might receive one brief message when they leave the system,” said Fleet Admiral Marloo. “After that, he will maintain communication silence, so his fleet can’t be traced.”

Andrew looked at Layla. He saw the deep concern in her eyes. “I’m certain Admiral Masters will come through this. After all, he has a wedding to plan when he gets back.”

This brought a smile to Layla’s lips. “I hope you’re right.”

Andrew nodded. He hoped he was also.

-

The Great Council watched the video of what had been done to Druin Six, the homeworld of the Druin race. The atmosphere was turning dark and would soon go into a nuclear winter so severe that no life would survive on the surface of the planet, if anything or anyone were still alive. Orders had already been sent for all available nearby transports to go to Druin Six to evacuate survivors.

Silence filled the chamber as everyone watched the horrifying video. Finally Councilor Damora stood, towering over the others. “This is what the Humans have witnessed for over one thousand years from Druin fleets that have bombed their cities and worlds. It is not surprising they finally decided to hit back. We have become too complacent.”

“But we have used this method as a form of population control on many of the worlds we have brought into the Confederation,” protested Ardon Reull. “It has been necessary to control these less civilized races.”

“Are they really uncivilized, or do we just say that so we can dominate them? Some of the races we have brought into the Empire as second-level citizens were and are very advanced.”

This caused an uneasy stirring in the council.

“We made a serious mistake in not dealing more severely with the Human Empire while we had the opportunity. We may now be looking at a very long and costly war. A war that we are not prepared for.” Damora did not mention that the Morag were prepared and that all their primary worlds sat behind massive defensive grids. The other six races had no business knowing this.

“What do you propose?” asked Ralor Conn of the Zynth.

Damora looked around the council, as he used his telepathy to plant thoughts in the minds of all the other councilors. “We build up our fleets for a long-term war against the Humans. In the short-term we use our current fleets to take over all the Human worlds on the periphery of their Empire.”

“Should we build defensive grids around our core worlds?” asked Councilor Cryler of the Zang.

“No, if our fleets are vigilant, defense grids will not be necessary.”

What the other councilors didn’t know was that, for centuries, the Morag had used their telepathic influence to ensure no defense grids were built around the core worlds of the other six races. The Morag wanted those worlds defenseless, in case it ever became necessary for the massive Morag fleet to take over those worlds. Shipyards were allowed to be armed but little else.

The councilors spoke among themselves, but Damora had already ensured his suggestions would pass and would be obeyed. He felt contempt at how weak the minds were of the other six races.

Finally Ardon Reull stood and addressed the council. “It is decided then. We will begin an immediate expansion of our fleet, while sending additional forces into the Human Empire to take over all the Human worlds on the periphery.”

“There is one more thing,” said Damora. “Admiral Kreen is the cause of the Humans attacking Druin Six. Kreen must be dealt with, since he disobeyed a direct order of this council.”

“We will remove him as an admiral immediately,” volunteered Clun, who had returned to the council chambers.

Damora shook his head. “No, I was thinking of something that would be more demonstrative of what will happen if this council is disobeyed in the future.”

-

Derrick gazed at the tactical display. Only a small force of Druin warships followed what remained of his fleet. No doubt the rest were involved in rescue operations back on Druin Six.

“They’re probably broadcasting our position on a regular basis,” said Audrey.

Derrick nodded. A lot of repair work was being done in the Command Center, where consoles had shorted out. Even a few overhead structural beams had come loose during the battle. “They may follow us all the way back to the Empire. Let’s just hope no other ships join them.”

On the tactical display, the number of friendly green icons was far less than what they had been when Fifth Fleet went into the Confederation. A few of the ships were having trouble staying in hyperspace, due to the damage the ships had suffered. Engineers were frantically doing patchwork repairs, working to keep the ships in hyperspace. Derrick knew they needed to drop out of hyperspace to conduct some outside repairs on the ships, but that wasn’t possible with the Druins following them.

Once they left Confederation space, Derrick might have to send a message requesting another fleet meet them. Unfortunately, with the sparseness of ships in the Empire at the moment, he was not sure where those ships would come from.

-

Layla felt an immense sense of relief. They had just received a brief hyperlight message from the Defiant saying the Druin homeworld had been destroyed, and the Human fleet was on its way back to the Empire. In about a week, Derrick would be safely home with her.

“They still have to get back,” said Fleet Admiral Marloo. “No doubt the Druins are in close pursuit and keeping the rest of the Confederation informed as to the location of Admiral Masters’ fleet.”

“Is there anything we can do?” Layla had hoped her worrying was over, but now it seemed it would go on a little longer.

“I’ll see,” said Marloo. “I can’t promise anything, but maybe we can do something.”

Layla nodded. “Do what you can. I also want to send a hyperlight message that will be received all over the Empire, as well as in the Confederation.”

Chancellor Stein looked over in surprise at the High Princess. “You’re going to make an announcement about the destruction of the Druins’ homeworld?”

Layla nodded. “That and a few other things. I believe we can use this to ensure no more of our cities are bombed by any Confederation ship or fleet.”

-

A few minutes later everything had been set up, and Layla was ready to make her announcement. This would be broadcast live on all core world media stations as well as by hyperlight. It would have both an audio and a video feed. Layla would be in the center, with Andrew and Krista standing on her left and right. Behind her, an array of military and fleet officers would be visible.

A green light suddenly flashed on, and Layla began. “I am Princess Layla Starguard of the Human Empire. Today is a historic day, as one of our greatest enemies has suffered a stunning defeat. A Human fleet led by Admiral Derrick Masters struck Druin Six, deep in Confederation space. I have now received confirmation that, after an intense battle, the Druin homeworld has been destroyed. This is in direct retaliation for the Druins’ orbital bombing of the capital city at Ranier Two. To the Confederation, I repeat my previous warning. Anytime we lose a city, you will lose a planet.”

Layla paused, looking directly into the cameras. “To Humans across the Empire, I give you hope and a promise. The Human Empire has been reborn and is here to stay. Every day we grow stronger, and our determination to free every Human world grows firmer. Do not despair if your world is currently under control of the Confederation. We are coming for you, and, someday soon, you will be free.”

The green light blinked out, and Layla breathed a sigh of relief. “How was that?”

“Perfect,” said Chancellor Stein. “Short and to the point. That should shake up the Great Council when they hear it.”

Layla nodded. “I hope so.” Now they must wait for Derrick to return safely home. Much work needed to be done, and she wanted him at her side.

-

Admiral Kreen sat in his command chair, fuming at the latest announcement from High Princess Starguard. How dare this impetuous Human threaten the Confederation. He was also greatly concerned about her comment regarding the destruction of Druin Six. Was it possible a Human fleet had dared to venture that far into the Confederation? So far, the Great Council had said nothing.

The hatch to the Command Center suddenly opened, and First Officer Falorr entered, followed by four heavily armed soldiers. Falorr walked up to stand before Admiral Kreen. “By orders of the Great Council, your life is forfeit for causing the destruction of Druin Six and billions of Druins,” uttered Falorr in a steady voice. He drew the blaster from his holster and pointed it directly at Kreen’s chest.

“What is this? There has been no communication from the Great Council. This is mutiny!” Kreen could not believe what he had just heard. After all, he was Admiral Kreen, the Druins’ greatest admiral.

“No, the communications were directed straight to my personal quarters. You have the death of billions of Druins on your hands, and, for that reason, you can no longer be allowed to live.”

Kreen sprang to his feet, reaching for the blaster always in a holster strapped to his waist.

First Officer Falorr didn’t hesitate and pulled the trigger on his weapon.

The force of the blast hurled Admiral Kreen back against his command chair. A shocked look crossed his face, as he slowly slid to the deck. Moments later he was dead.

“Remove this disgraced officer from the Command Center,” ordered Falorr. Reaching down, he removed the admiral insignia from Kreen’s shoulders and attached them to his own. The reign of Admiral Kreen was over; the reign of Admiral Falorr was just beginning.

Chapter Twenty-Five

Derrick watched the tactical display closely. They were out of Confederation space and rapidly nearing the Human Empire. The only problem was that several Confederation fleets were on the edge of the Empire as well as the ninety Druin battlecruisers following what was left of Fifth Fleet. Derrick needed a safe harbor for his shattered fleet.

“Communications, send a message to Golan Four of our current position and speed. Inform them we are being pursued by a Druin fleet consisting of eighty-seven battlecruisers and three battleships. We expect more enemy vessels to be waiting when we reach the Empire. We have a number of heavily damaged ships that are just barely staying in hyperspace. We will drop out upon reaching Empire space. We need assistance if possible. Keep broadcasting that every hour with updates on our course and speed.”

“We’ll be telling the Druins exactly where we are,” warned Audrey with concern in her voice.

Derrick gestured toward the tactical display, showing the pursuing Druin fleet directly behind them. “They already know where we are. We’re just telling our own people.”

Leaning back in his command chair, Derrick wondered where he should drop out of hyperspace. Already three of his battlecruisers had dropped out of hyperspace due to failed hyperspace drives. All three had been quickly destroyed by the Druins.

“When do we drop out?” asked Audrey. She knew they had a dozen more ships in critical condition. “And, more important, where?”

“Six hours,” replied Derrick. He had found only one possible destination, and the one he had chosen was questionable. “A small inhabited moon is in the system of Ralkor Three, still under Empire control. Part of the reason was the population is so small that the Confederation has been bypassing it for now. It does have a small shipyard that can repair our damaged ships. Also rumors indicate that the resistance has fortified the moon, but that hasn’t been confirmed.”

Audrey nodded. “Sounds like our best option.”

Derrick nodded. They were fast running out of options. This small unknown moon was their only hope.

-

Lormallian Admiral Zador had intercepted the message from the incoming Human fleet. “They only have a couple places where they can seek refuge. Scans from the pursuing Druin ships indicate major damage to many of the Human vessels. They must drop out of hyperspace soon to make repairs.”

“Where?” asked First Officer Dabon.

“Only a few worlds on the periphery of the Human Empire are still under Empire control. We will split up our fleet to cover both. However, that’s not where I believe this Human admiral is going.”

Zador adjusted the holographic tactical display to show another star system. “This is the system of Ralkor Three. A small inhabited moon is in the system with a major resistance base on it. The moon also has a small shipyard, as well as a powerful defensive grid. We have not taken it since the cost would be too high and the rewards so small. That’s where I believe this Human fleet is heading. We will take part of our fleet there and wait for it.”

First Officer Dabon quickly gave the order, dividing the Lormallian fleet into three sections. It would not matter where the Human fleet dropped out of hyperspace, a superior Lormallian fleet would be waiting for it.

-

Layla had been summoned back to the Command Center. Fleet Admiral Cleemorl and his officers had determined that Derrick was heading toward a small inhabited moon in the Ralkor Three system. She had stopped by communications and sent off a short message before joining the others.

“Two hours,” said Andrew, who had been talking to several fleet officers. “Derrick will be dropping out of hyperspace near the inhabited moon of Hastings.”

“Where did the name Hastings come from?” asked Krista curiously.

“Admiral Don Hastings is the one who discovered it and then had it terraformed. The system is rich in minerals. The moon has eight million inhabitants, and most of those are involved in the mining industry.”

“Does the governor of Hastings know what’s headed toward him?” asked Krista, concerned. They were risking another eight million Humans.

“He knows,” answered Layla. “I just finished speaking to him. I promised to send him more elements for the moon’s defensive grid if he agreed to help Derrick.” Layla then smiled. “He told me that they would have helped Fifth Fleet even without the added incentive.”

“Not surprising,” said Andrew. “A major resistance base is on the moon, and the shipyard was partially built using resistance funding.”

Fleet Admiral Marloo came over. “We have reports of a Lormallian fleet on the way. No matter what, I’m afraid we’ll have a major fleet battle on our hands. It’ll arrive at Hastings around the same time as Admiral Masters.”

Layla shared a glance with Krista. She wondered if her life with Derrick would always be like this. With every passing day, Layla knew that her brother and Derrick would have been great friends. They had so much in common.

-

Fifth Fleet dropped out of hyperspace in the Ralkor Three system near the inhabited moon of Hastings. Immediately Derrick took the fleet to Condition One.

“The moon has a medium-size shipyard and is surrounded by a defensive grid,” reported Audrey, as she checked the ship’s sensor readings.

“I have an incoming message from Hastings Defense Command,” reported Lieutenant Bree Wolman. “A Lormallian fleet is heading this direction and should be dropping out of hyperspace at any minute. They recommend we take refuge beneath their defense grid.”

Derrick nodded. “Send an acknowledgment and have all our critically damaged ships head for the grid. The rest of us will form up around the shipyard. Is it armed?” Derrick felt some relief at seeing how powerful the small moon’s defensive grid was. Just maybe they would have a chance to survive this.

Audrey nodded. “Heavily and it has an energy shield as well.”

Derrick took a deep breath. Unfortunately there was still a price in blood to be paid for their mission. Derrick just hoped some of his crews made it back home.

-

It didn’t take but a few minutes for the severely damaged ships to limp to safety beneath the defensive grid. The rest of Fifth Fleet formed up around the shipyard to wait for the enemy to appear. They didn’t have long to wait as the Druin warships pursuing them began dropping out of hyperspace. A few minutes later a Lormallian fleet of nearly three hundred vessels put in an appearance.

-

“Well, this doesn’t look good,” said Audrey, as she gazed at all the red threat icons on the tactical display.

“Outnumbered as usual,” said Derrick, leaning forward in his command chair.

“More contacts exiting hyperspace,” called out Lieutenant Breen. “They’re Imperial!”

“I have Admiral Cleemorl on the comm,” said a grinning Lieutenant Wolman. “He wants to know if we need some assistance.”

Derrick felt a huge surge of relief upon seeing a major portion of First Fleet. Not only that, Admiral Cleemorl had brought Rear Admiral Carrie and six of her battlecarriers. Also a large number of resistance warships were with First Fleet as well

“Battlecarriers are launching,” said Audrey with a smile on her face. “I think the odds just changed.”

-

Admiral Zador gazed in aggravation at the newly arrived Imperial and resistance ships. His fleet and the Druin forces were now the ones heavily outnumbered.

“We must withdraw,” he said, realizing he could not win this battle. Not when taking into consideration the moon’s defenses as well as its heavily armed shipyard. No, it was best to withdraw and to fight another day when the odds were more in the Confederation’s favor. “Take us back into hyperspace. There will be no battle today.”

Moments later the Lormallian fleet was gone, leaving only the Druins. The Druin commander wanted nothing more than to attack the Humans who had destroyed the Druin homeworld, but to do so now would be suicide. Taking a deep breath, the Druin commander ordered his fleet to turn around and head back home.

-

Derrick watched in disbelief as the two enemy Confederation fleets turned and jumped back into hyperspace. The battle he had been expecting had been miraculously prevented by the appearance of Admiral Cleemorl and his forces.

“Admiral Cleemorl requests your presence in the Themis. He wants to hear about our mission.”

Nodding, Derrick stood. “Tell him that I’m on my way.” Derrick turned toward Audrey. “While I’m gone, see if you can arrange getting some of our critically damaged ships into that shipyard. We have a lot of repair work to do before we can return to Golan Four.”

-

An hour later Admiral Masters and Admiral Cleemorl sat in Cleemorl’s office onboard the Themis.

“We put this fleet together hastily. We only figured out where you might be going a few days ago.” First Fleet had been scattered across numerous star systems. As it was, Dylan brought about half of his fleet, plus the battlecarriers, and what resistance ships he could gather.

“We didn’t know if anyone would meet us or not,” replied Derrick. “We were hoping, with the defenses at Hastings, some of my fleet would survive.”

Cleemorl nodded. He could only imagine what Fifth Fleet had been through. “The High Princess has been worried since you left. I suspect she’ll keep you around Golan Four for quite some time to come.”

Derrick smiled. “I don’t think I’ll even object to that. I could use some serious downtime. What happened at Earth?” This had been a question burning in Derrick’s mind for days.

Dylan let out a deep sigh. “They were hit pretty hard. Fortunately Earth, Mars, and Pallas came through it with little or no damage. Ganymede and Callisto did as well. From the latest reports I received, the Solar System lost a little over 23 million people in the attack. The Confederation lost nearly six thousand of their warships.”

“So, what happens now?”

“You saw the hyperlight transmission the High Princess sent out. We’re hoping for a few months of peace and quiet. If we get that, then the Empire will have a few fleets of its own ready to go, and we’ll have put powerful defensive grids around one hundred worlds. We’ll be ready at that time to retake the rest of the Human worlds in the Empire.”

Derrick let out a deep sigh. “We have years of fighting ahead of us.”

Dylan nodded. “Yes, but, with the passing of every year, we will only grow stronger.”

Derrick was ready to get back to Layla. He suspected all this had only increased her desire for them to get married as soon as possible, and that was fine with Derrick. He would even suggest it when he got back to the Imperial Palace. For him, the fighting was over for a while. He had witnessed enough death and destruction to last a lifetime. It was time to spend some quality time with his future wife.

Epilogue

Derrick and what remained of Fifth Fleet had finally reached Golan Four. Admiral Cleemorl had stayed at Hastings with a part of First Fleet until the defensive grid components arrived that High Princess Layla had promised. Four ODPs would soon be delivered, as well as more energy beam satellites and missile platforms. Admiral Cleemorl was currently in negotiations with the governor of Hastings about establishing a major Imperial base there, which would include fleet units to protect the moon. Most of First Fleet had returned to the various systems they were assigned to protect, and Rear Admiral Carrie had returned to Golan Four with her battlecarriers.

As soon as he arrived in orbit above Golan Four, Derrick made arrangements for his damaged ships to be placed in several shipyard repair bays. A few of his ships were still in the Ralkor Three system, waiting to be repaired. They were too badly damaged to risk bringing back to the core worlds. It would be months before Fifth Fleet was fully functional once more. Until then, the fleet would be stationed above Golan Four as part of its defense force.

-

Derrick had only been in orbit a few minutes when Fleet Admiral Marloo boarded the Defiant to debrief Derrick.

“I wanted to speak to you before you went to the Imperial Palace. I believe the High Princess is planning a huge feast tonight to celebrate your return.”

Derrick laughed. “I’m not surprised. I know it was hard for her to allow me to go on this mission to begin with.” It was such a big relief to be back at Golan Four. At times on this mission, Derrick had doubted he would make it back alive.

The two were in the small office off to the side of the ship’s Command Center.

“Give me a rough idea of what happened in the Druin home system. You can send me a more detailed report later.”

“I have the detailed report finished,” replied Derrick. “Been working on it since we left Hastings.” Derrick handed the fleet admiral a thick sheaf of papers, as well as several computer disks. “Everything is there. I didn’t leave anything out.”

Fleet Admiral Marloo nodded. “Guess this will give me some late-night reading. Now what happened in the Druin Six system?”

-

For the next two hours Derrick described in detail the battle above the Druin home planet. He even showed the fleet admiral a few videos of the devastation caused by the attack interceptors.

-

Finally Derrick finished his verbal report and looked expectantly at Fleet Admiral Marloo.

“Amazing,” said Marloo, leaning back in his chair. “You may have bought us months of time to prepare for the next stage of the war. Between your destruction of the Druin homeworld and Earth destroying over six thousand Confederation warships, it might have bought us the time we need. In just another month or so, the shipyards in the core worlds will complete a large number of warships, both battlecruisers and dreadnoughts. We’re already training the crews.”

Smiling, Fleet Admiral Marloo continued. “If you want to catch a ride with me in my shuttle, I’m setting it down on the spaceport near the Palace. I’m sure a certain High Princess is impatient to see you.”

-

High Princess Layla was in her quarters, sitting on a comfortable couch. Krista was with her, keeping her company.

“He will be here any minute,” said Krista, grinning. She actually enjoyed seeing Layla in this state. Normally Layla was super composed and knew just what to say; today she was almost like a schoolgirl, with all the fidgeting she was doing.

“I want us to get married as soon as possible,” said Layla. “Is that wrong of me?”

Krista giggled. “No, I’m sure we can arrange a wedding sometime after Kala and Andrew’s.”

Layla let out a deep sigh. “Derrick and I should have already gotten married. It’s my fault for wanting everything to be perfect.”

“Nothing is wrong with that,” replied Krista. At that moment a knock came at the door. The door opened, and Derrick stepped inside.

Layla leaped up and literally threw herself into Derrick’s waiting arms. They kissed, and the kiss seemed as if it would never end.

“Okay, you two. I’m in the room with you, and even I’m feeling uncomfortable.”

Derrick released Layla with a huge smile on his face. “Sorry, Krista. How have you been?”

“Babysitting your future wife. She’s been driving me crazy. I’m just glad you’re finally back and all in one piece. Maybe the Palace can now return to normal.”

Derrick led Layla to the couch, and they both sat down.

“I don’t want a long engagement,” Layla blurted out. “I want to get married as soon as possible.”

“So do I,” admitted Derrick. “That’s one of the things I wanted to talk to you about.”

Krista stood. “I better be leaving.”

“No, just stay where you are,” Layla said. “You’ve been helping Andrew and Kala plan their wedding. Now you can help with mine. The first thing is to set a date.”

Krista let out a deep sigh. She suspected she would be here for quite some time.

-

The Morag High Council was once more in session.

“Druin Six destroyed,” sent Councilor Delann. “That will greatly weaken the Confederation.”

“The Druins have been getting out of hand for generations,” replied Addonis. “They got exactly what they deserved.”

“So, what do we do now?” asked Councilor Brant. “The Humans are still a threat. We cannot read their minds, let alone influence them.”

“Councilor Damora has encouraged the other six races to build up their fleets. When the time is right, we will send them against the Human Empire. If our predictions are accurate, the result will be a substantial weakness in the Humans as well as in all six of the other races of the Confederation. At that time we will send forth our fleets and take over the Confederation. The other six races have served their purpose. It is now time for us to officially lead.”

“What about Earth?” asked Councilor Hiram.

“We leave them alone for now. They are just one star system. Once we have the Confederation and the Human Empire firmly under our control, then we will move against Earth. Fleet Admiral Horrabe suggested we offer Earth a peace treaty. We leave them alone, and they leave us alone. We allow them to expand into the Bacchus Region, which is a desolate wasteland. But they must forever stay away from the Human Empire and the Confederation.”

“That does avoid a conflict with Earth,” sent Hiram, nodding his head approvingly. “Will they agree to it?”

“I’m certain they will, as to refuse will mean their immediate destruction.”

The others all sent their agreement. Very soon the Morag would come out into the open, and the entire Confederation and thousands of other inhabited worlds would know who the true power was in the galaxy. The Morag were nearly ready to take their rightful place as the supreme rulers of the Confederation and eventually the galaxy.

-

On Pallas a meeting of the system’s military leaders had been called. Some amazing discoveries had been made in the wreckage of the destroyed Confederation ships.

“It is obvious the Morag are the most advanced race of the seven races,” began Admiral Reynolds. “They are a simian species and very intelligent. Our scientists have been going through the ship wreckage of all the seven races that we have access to. We discovered a treasure trove of information in some of the computer files we’ve retrieved. We know more now about the Confederation than at any time in the past.”

“I’ve heard some worrisome rumors coming from the doctors and scientists conducting autopsies on the Morag,” said General Weston. “Some are very worrisome.”

Admiral Reynolds gestured toward Donald Murphy, a medical research doctor, dealing with the Human brain.

Dr. Murphy stood. “I have assisted in the autopsies of dozens of Morag.” He pressed an icon on the computer in front of him, and an expanded view of a Morag brain appeared. It was very similar to a Human brain, except it was slightly larger, and one section seemed to be swelled.

Dr. Murphy pointed to the swollen section. “All the Morag brains have this swelling. We have deduced there is a 95 percent chance the Morag are telepathic.”

“What!” said Councilor Tristan, standing up, a look of shocked disbelief on his face. “Is that possible? To the best of my knowledge a telepathic race has never been encountered anywhere in the galaxy.”

“Well, there has now,” said Dr. Murphy. “It explains how the Morag ships moved as one unit so efficiently during the battle. It’s obvious now the individual commanders were communicating telepathically with one another.”

Councilor Tristan sat back down, his face slightly pale. “Do the other races of the Confederation know?”

Admiral Reynolds shook his head. “I’ve had Linda Martin and Alicia Morr combing through the computer files we’ve downloaded from various wrecked Confederation ships. They find no mention of this ability anywhere.”

“So, what does this mean?” asked Rear Admiral Everett.

Admiral Reynolds let out a deep sigh. “Our scientists and military strategists believe the Morag have been controlling the Confederation for millennia, with no one the wiser. The Morag are the true power behind the Confederation and their policies.”

Silence loomed in the conference room, as everyone thought about this amazing revelation.

“What do we do now?” asked General Weston.

“We do nothing,” replied Admiral Reynolds. “We keep this knowledge a secret for the time being. It may give us an important card to play against the Confederation at a time and place of our choosing. One thing we do know is that the Morag are much more dangerous than we previously believed.”

-

It was late evening, and Layla and Derrick had just returned from a massive feast in Derrick’s honor. Hundreds of people had been there, and it had been quite an occasion. They stood outside on the balcony of Layla’s quarters, gazing over the busy city. Even at night, the capital was alive with activity.

“I used to stand in the sky towers and watch the city lights for hours,” said Layla. Derrick stood next to her, his arm around her waist. “Often my mother or father would be there with me or even Krista.”

“That’s something I promise we’ll always do,” replied Derrick.

Looking up toward the stars, Layla asked her next question. “What will happen next?”

“Hopefully the Empire will be peaceful for a few months. We can get a lot done if we have the time. I spoke to Fleet Admiral Marloo and Chancellor Stein tonight, and both are confident that, at the end of two months, we will have over one hundred Human worlds in the new Empire, and our first fleets built in Empire shipyards will be deployed. Everything is going in the right direction.”

Layla leaned against Derrick. It was amazing how safe she felt in his presence. “We must reestablish the Empire across all one thousand of its former worlds. I know that, on some of those more distant worlds, the Empire has nearly been forgotten. I’m making a series of hyperlight broadcasts to describe in detail the Empire I grew up in.”

A shooting star flashed across the night sky.

“Make a wish,” said Derrick.

Layla closed her eyes and did so.

“What did you wish for?” asked Derrick, curious.

Layla grinned. “If I tell you, it won’t come true.”

Derrick’s gaze returned to the city. Millions of lights and thousands of aircars were in the airways above. This was the heart of the Empire, and it was once more starting to beat. Derrick was determined to make Layla’s dream of a new and united Empire come true. An Empire that would be the shining light for the rest of the galaxy.

The End

Coming in late October, the fourth book in the Forgotten Empire series, War for the Empire!

If you enjoyed the Forgotten Empire: The Battle for Earth 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 The Battle for Earth and being so supportive.

Website: http://raymondlweil.com/

The Seven Races of the Confederation

The Druins are the most populous of the Confederation races and are a cold-blooded species with limited emotions. Their form is slightly humanoid but squat, with their head sitting almost directly on their torso via a short neck. Their arms are massive and could easily snap a Human in two. Druins are logical with limited emotions. They stand eight feet tall.

The Lamothians. Large sluglike creatures that consume intelligent life. They are the second-most intelligent race of the seven Confederation races. They spend much of their time contemplating the mysteries of the universe. For the past one thousand years their favorite food source has been Humans. Humans are considered a delicacy and are in high demand at the food markets on their worlds.

To procure a Human for a feast, the various Lamothians bid on the Human until only one bidder remains. The Lamothians only live upon six worlds of the Confederation. They stand upright on four legs and have six appendages that serve as arms with three protuberances on their hands that allow them to manipulate equipment. Their skin is pale and glistens with an oily sheen. They have two eyestalks, which protrude from their heads. Their names are unpronounceable, more of a symbol than an actual word. Their lifespans are around eight hundred years.

The Zynth are a reptilian race that resemble an ancient Earth raptor, only slimmer and with actual arms and clawlike hands. The Zynth are the second-most aggressive Confederation race after the Druins. Have yellow reptilian eyes.

The Lormallians. The Lormallians are a warm-blooded species and stand nearly seven feet tall. They are humanoid in form with a bone crest on the top of their head instead of hair. They have large eyes, and their arms end in hands with six digits. The Lormallians are also a very logical race, and nearly all their decisions are based upon logic. The Lormallians are the oldest race in the Confederation and act as custodians for the archives.

The Morphenes. The Morphenes resemble giant amoebas and have no true form. Their form is constantly shifting. Morphenes are very logical.

The Zang. A birdlike race with the ability to fly, they have large wings and very sharp beaks. They have a set of arms attached to the main part of their body with clawlike fingers. Very intelligent and very seldom speak. Have a grating whistlelike voice.

The Morag. Massive apelike creatures. Stand nearly ten feet high. Very intelligent but seldom speak. Are telepathic with other members of their race. A cross between a gorilla and Big Foot is the best description of them. The Morag maintain a massive secret warfleet, which is very seldom used. They live on over 112 planets in ninety-two different star systems. They have also terraformed nearly two hundred moons, which are also heavily inhabited. Some are powerful telepaths and have secretly controlled the Confederation’s Great Council from the very beginning.

They were the ones behind the Confederation attacking the Human Empire because Humans are immune to the telepathic abilities of the Morag. They have manipulated the Confederation since its very founding and have been responsible for many of the harsher actions taken by the Confederation. The Morag’s telepathic abilities allow them to plant suggestions in the minds of others and also allow them to force others to do their bidding. Their telepathic abilities are a closely guarded secret.

What no other race knows is that the Morag maintain a large warfleet of nearly 15,000 vessels, which they very seldom use. The other members of the seven races think that the Morag population numbers are far less and that their fleet is only a fraction of its true size.

Many of you are aware of my health problems. I was suffering from Kidney failure and just had my Kidney Transplant a few weeks ago.. The proceeds from this book and my other books will go to covering any unexpected costs associated with the surgery and my anti-rejection medications. So please give my other books a look. Every sale will help. The following two books are the first books in two of my most popular series.

The Star Cross

Admiral Kurt Vickers is on fleet maneuvers in the Newton system when a heavily damaged Earth light cruiser appears. The captain tells a horrific story. Earth has been invaded, and the defensive fleets in orbit have been annihilated.

For decades, humans have been exploring further and further away from Earth and Newton searching for signs of intelligent life. Now that intelligent life has found them and it comes as an invader.

The enemy is ruthless, powerful, and has a disdain for human life. Admiral Vickers has his small fleet taskforce and is hopelessly outnumbered. However, even in darkness there is light and Admiral Vickers will do whatever is necessary to free Earth from the invaders, even if he has to travel to the worst hellhole in the galaxy to do it.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017CM03GE/

Earth Fall: Invasion

The Trellixian Empire was constantly expanding, seeking new worlds for their ever-increasing population. If worlds were discovered with existing sentient populations, they were cleansed to make room for colonization. Hundreds of budding civilizations had been eliminated by Trellixian battle fleets.

On Earth years in the past, a scout ship fleeing from the Trellixians crashed. Scientists investigating the wreckage discovered what the Trellixians had done to the world the scout ship escaped from. They also discovered it was only a matter of time before the Trellixians reached Earth.

A daring plan was implemented involving the major world powers. They would prepare in secret for the coming of the alien invaders. The only question was, how could one world resist a galactic empire?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0795HBMDB

Turn the page for a complete list of other books written by Raymond L. Weil.

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

-

Dragon Dreams: Dragon Wars

Dragon Dreams: Gilmreth the Awakening

Dragon Dreams: Snowden the White Dragon

Dragon Dreams: Firestorm Mountain

-

Star One: Tycho City: Survival

Star One: Neutron Star

Star One: Dark Star

Star One

-

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)

-

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)

The Lost Fleet (Books 1-5)

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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)

The Originator Wars Explorations: The Multiverse (Book 5)

The Originator Wars Explorations: The Lost (Book 6)

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Earth Fall: Invasion (Book 1)

Earth Fall: To the Stars (Book 2)

Earth Fall: Empires at War (Book 3)

The Forgotten Empire: Banishment (Book 1)

The Forgotten Empire: Earth Ascendant (Book 2)

The Forgotten Empire: The Battle for Earth (Book 3)

All Dates are Tentative

The Forgotten Empire: The War for the Empire (Book 4) October 2020