Dark Chaos
A story of romance, mistrust and the Human heart
Episode 1: "Beginnings"
By:
Arron Alderson
Copyright – 2006
Back-story –
The year is 2441; mankind has expanded to the edges of our home system known as Sol. Planets such as Mars and Pluto, once thought to be years travel, are know vast hubs of system-commerce and activity. Leading up to this point the Human raced lived in peace – conflicts were settled upon the discovery of Fusion drive technology allowing journeys that would have taken years to be completed in the space of a few weeks.
The United Nations was replaced by the Atlantic Empire, consisting of the nations America, United Kingdom, France and Germany. This was the point were things began to turn towards the worst. The formation of the Atlantic Empire and the casting aside of the United Nations caused a power struggle to the forged on Earth: many believed that the other countries would be forced to join the Empire, hence smaller nations banded together to stand against the possible threat caused by this.
A few nations remained neutral to all of this, choosing to adapt a policy of peace and understanding rather then getting involved in a possible war. As all this continued and the diplomatic tensions rose, scientists were continuing to make breakthroughs.
The Human genome was fully mapped and for the first time, our true abilities and mental capacity was realised. Gene modification on new born children became common practice as parents wanted their children to have perfect features and certain colour eyes or hair.
This created jealousy on the bulk of the Earth population who couldn't afford this sort of treatment. Soon killings began to take place on the so called "High-Born" by many who believed that modifying a child at birth was against God's will.
As the years passed, and more and more rich families continued to modify new born children, the killings rose until one day the Atlantic Empire outlawed genetic modification and rounded up from all over the world every single High-Born and had them sent to a makeshift colony created on Mars for them.
A mass exodus of over 250 million High Born followed.
Fifty eight years later, Mars was soon full of activity as the High Born continued genetic modification of there own new born children as well as making Mars into a vast underground colony with almost fifty cities.
Soon after the High Born forged there own military and government called: "Mars Union".
The Atlantic Empire, now controlling almost 95 of Earth and in full control of the Moon, had developed powerful space and ground based forces and the military branch of the Empire began to view the High Born as a threat.
While the Mars Union had technology and intellect on there side, the Atlantic Empire had the superior numbers when it came to military.
In order to combat a possible space-based engagement, the Mars Union began pumping vast amounts of resources into the construction of space ships. At this time the Mars Union had created a far superior weapon to use against the Atlantic Empire's space combat fighter. This new tactical, one manned fighters, became known as a Combat Suit.
The Combat Suit was the size of a man and the shape of a man, a single occupant could operate it and would have the agility of a fighter and the weapons of a battleship.
Hence our story begins...
Chapter 1 – "Problems persist"
Derek Logan
Derek Logan sat back in the leather chair rubbing his temple. He had been up all night in contact with an Atlantic Empire diplomat in an attempt to arrange a meeting with their leadership, and he had been bogged down with excuses each and every time.
He sighed and looked around his office. He had taken on the role of Chancellor three years ago as a young member of the Defence Council of the Mars Union. Though his term was almost up and elections were due, he still had his duty to perform.
Things were heating up. It seemed the Atlantic Empire was beginning to view the Mars Union as a threat, which grew each and everyday. Already the Atlantic Empire's lunar fleet was mobilized and in response the Union had placed its own fleets on standby, though he knew that wouldn't help defuse the situation.
He formed and fist and proceeded to slam it onto the desk, just why were the Atlantic Empire pushing for a fight? Almost sixty years ago they had rounded up millions who had had their genes altered at birth and gave them Mars to live away from the "Norms", the term used by the High Born to describe a Human who had never undergone genetic modification.
It seemed now because the High Born had grown so strong; the Atlantic Empire was beginning to view them as a threat to their power. He only hoped a diplomatic solution was possible, or a full scale war might soon follow.
He stood and headed to the exit of his office, intent on getting some form of rest before he again tried to reason with diplomats. A busy day ahead but he knew he must keep his stamina up if war was to be avoided.
Chapter 2 – "All good things"
Mark Johnson
He looked over the data on his console screen again and sighed. The Mars Union had, over the past three months, managed to amass a large enough force to pose a great threat to the Atlantic Empire. Already there were talks among the top-brace of a pre-emptive strike against Mars.
He looked away from his screen at a small picture to his right. Framed perfectly, as if the moment was forever lost in time, the picture was that of Mark's family. Seventeen years ago a High-Born had killed Mark's brother and mother in retaliation for the attacks against his kind.
It was then that Mark had sworn that to his dying breath he'd bring the Mars Union to its knee's. To do that he had advanced in the ranks of the Atlantic Empire until he was in full control of the Empire's top branch of military, even the President of the Empire feared the power Mark had built.
Of course to cover his true motives he had, under a secret hacker, caused all data of his families' death to be erased from the Empire's records. The hacker had himself soon met with an unfortunate accident.
"Mr Johnson," His speaker broke into his thoughts, "The meeting is due to start, sir"
Mark rose, adjusted his blue business uniform. "Yes, yes, I'll be right there."
He moved towards the exit, he was currently at the Atlantic Empire's lunar base were he was due for a meeting with the General's and Admirals of the Empires military with regards to the growing strength of the Mars Union.
Proceeding down the restricted corridors of the lunar base, he walked casually as if he didn't belong there. Though the military grunts knew better then to simply stop Mark asking for credentials.
He entered a large room with dimly lit lights and a large round table. Seated around were the Atlantic Empire's top Generals and Admirals, each wearing the typical white uniform of the military branch.
Each of them knew this meeting would decide the course of action Earth would take next.
He sat down, taking his time, his own way of showing that he cared little for their opinions and that his mind was already made up. As he sat a holographic projection of Mars flooded the centre of the desk.
"Gentleman," Began one of them, "As you are all aware the Mars Union has increased it's military to the point were it poses a direct threat to our own military. They have also begun researching and developing technologies that far exceed our own."
They each knew what the Admiral was talking about, already the mass produced space fighter used by the Empire's military was now useless against the Mars Unions new combat suit.
"We must decide, here and now, how we intend to react to this"
"Perhaps opening up negotiations with Mars might be the best way to avoid war?" Someone in the room asked.
"I say we launch a direction attack against Mars!" Someone else shouted.
Mark formed a fist and banged it on the desk; the room fell silent right away. "Why are we talking about this?" He said, standing as tall as he could. Though he was only twenty-five years old he had a strong build and blond hair and he was also the most powerful man in this room. It was his decision that counted in the end. "The action we have to take is simple – a direct nuclear attack from our lunar fleet will force the Union to obey us"
There were gasps in the room, though the Atlantic Empire kept a large stockpile of nuclear missiles; they were outlawed under every treaty ever created by the new government.
"But, Mr Johnson," Someone said, "If we use nuclear missiles we risk a retaliation strike from the Union"
"I don't think so," Mark said, rounding the table as he spoke. "If we show the High-Born that were willing to destroy our enemies then they will fall in line. We can then issue any demands we see fit"
Glances followed as the Admirals weren't sure if this was the correct course of action. "The simple fact is, gentleman," He continued, "Is that this is the action I have decided to take and the action you will support and carry out. Now I suggest the attack take place tomorrow at, say, 1pm?"
The room fell silent, some of the Admirals liked the idea whilst other didn't, but they knew better then to ague. "Very well, sir."
"Good," Mark smiled and quoted the slogan of the Atlantic Empires military, "For the protection of Mother Earth"
Chapter 3 – "The road to war"
Jim Race
Jim Race passed the floor of the military command room, nervous looking commanders and strategists awaited his orders. In front of him was a large holographic projection of the Sol system showing military assets belonging to the Atlantic Empire and the Mars Union.
From the reports it was clear the Norms were gathering a large portion of their fleet around the moon, most likely a prelude to an all-out attack against Mars. He fumed inside, the stupid High Council, led by Derek Logan, was still pushing for a diplomatic solution. He knew better, he knew much better.
The Chairman was up for re-election shortly and Jim had already forward his name as a candidate. As a high-ranking member of the Mars Union's military, he had a lot of power – but not the type of power he needed to secure Mars. He had to be the Chairman for that type of power.
"Damn it," He shouted startling the room, "It's so damn clear the Norms intend to launch an attack but the council seem content on letting it happen!"
No one in the room would dare question him, so they all nodded. Jim was tall, with a powerful body build and short grey hair. At the age of 58 he had more commendations in his service record then most and was still capable of going toe-to-toe with anyone younger then himself.
The advanced technology of the Mars Union gave them an edge over the numerous Atlantic Empire forces, but he couldn't launch a pre-emptive strike without council permission. It was so frustrating.
"Sir," One of the commanders stated, "The 8th battle group is currently the closest to the Moon. Perhaps an update from them would be best before we make any decisions here?"
"How large is the 8th battle group?" Jim asked back, as the data he asked for was already being shown on the display.
The commander read the numbers even before they flooded the screen, "Fifteen Agamemnon class battleships, twelve Apollo class escort destroyers and five Combat Armours per ship"
"Contact the fleet admiral of the 8th BG, have them run scan's of the Moon – but tell them to keep their distance. We want numbers, not combat"
"Yes, sir" One of the other commanders said, moving to the lower area of the command centre.
Closing the holographic projection, he turned. "How goes project Fantasy?"
"Proceeding smoothly, sir" Came a reply.
That was something to be glad about at least. Three years ago the council approved construction of a super-weapons known as Fantasy. Simple put it was a massive nuclear reactor that could fire a beam of charged nuclear energy at any one location, causing damage 500,000 times that of the World War II hydrogen bomb.
It was Mars' answer to the Earth's nuclear weapons stockpile, though it most likely would never be used with the current administration the way it was.
Chapter 4 – "Fake praise"
Lucy Romulus
Commander Lucy Romulus looked at herself one last time in the mirror, making sure everything wasperfect. Adjusting her uniform for the seventh time she smiled, today was the day she'd officially receive her first command – and to top it off she would be taking command of the Atlantic Empire's top-of-line battleship – the "Iceni"
The Iceni was docked in lunar orbit awaiting the final additions to its crew, as well as all the high-ranking officials who'd be taking part in the commissioning ceremony. Her white military uniform was perfect, not a crease on it. She nodded to herself once and moved towards the exit heading directly for the access lift that would take her to the bridge.
Floating in mid-air, her thoughts racing as though trying to keep pace with the 0G movement, she couldn't help but wonder why she had been given command of the most advanced battleship in the fleet. Was it because of her former father?
Rumours had begun to go around the lunar base that war was almost a definite certain between Earth and Mars, which explained a lot with the gathering of the 1st, 4th and 7th lunar fleets.
She quickly returned to real time as the door opened and she floated onto the bridge. Already news crews and their holographic picture taking cameras flew around her, asking questions and demanding certain stances for pictures. The other bridge crew were in full military dress as well, looking just as out of place as her.
The only ones even blending in with the other civilians were the admirals who nodded and gave brief, if fake, smiles to the news teams. She took her place upon the centre chair. The bridge was laid out almost like any other Earth ship – a centre chair were the Captain sat, in front of that seat was the helmsman position and to her rear was the command – in – control area were the ship executive officer and the weapons crew were housed.
The XO was there also, a much younger women then herself, but she came from a long line of military family service. Her name was Rachel Huntley, rank of Lieutenant. As if on a sudden time-schedule, one of the admirals came forward, acting as Lucy's best friend though she had never met him in her life.
"The Atlantic Empire is pleased to give this ship to the capable hands of Commander Lucy Romulus. A proven woman who has seen her fair share of military life, it is people like her who will lead the Earth-born population to freedom from any who may oppress us."
As cheers rose from the news teams, she could tell the underlying threat of the admirals voice knowing full well the "oppresses" he referred to were the Mars Union. So it did seem war may be a definite possibility if they were publicly saying such things.
"We are therefore pleased to give full command of the first Iceni class battleship to her, and wish her Gods speed in her adventures"
Someone opened a champagne bottle that made her jump slightly as the cork was released with the sudden exchange of pressure. With no gravity, large balls of liquid flowed out of the bottle as laughter and clapping made her feel dizzy.
She only hoped tensions between Earth and Mars would calm down, the last thing she wanted was for her first command to go into battle. She decided to play the roll sighting the questioning glances she was getting from the admirals, smiling she joined in the clapping.
Chapter 5 – "Can't avoid destiny"
Jonathan Sander
"Admiral to the bridge," The voice called waking him up. He checked the ships clock and it showed the time to only be 02:30am, almost five hours before he was due on the bridge. "Admiral to the bridge"
He moved to the wall panel and unhooked the cord phone that allowed him to either make ship-wide announcements, internal comm's with departments, who inter-ship communications.
"This had better be damn good," He said, his voice cold. "What the hell is going on?"
"Sir Transmission coming in from lunar HQ for you." The voice on the other end said.
"I'll be right there," He said placing the phone back down and moving towards his uniform. Jonathan was in command of the 4th lunar fleet, which had only been placed on high alert due to the current crises with Mars. Perhaps this was his marching orders?
With a quick change, he headed out the door and floated towards the nearest access lift. Moments later he was greeted by the sight of a busy bridge, rushing around with paper and reports from the departments.
He took the centre chair, "Report?" He said.
An ensign moved towards him and handed him a piece of paper. He had to double read it to be sure he was reading the correct orders. He felt sick, he could see the tactical sense in his orders, but they were wrong. No fleet admiral should ever have to fight this sort of engagement.
He closed his eyes, tried to focus. As he opened them again the entire bridge of his battleship had come to a halt, wondering just what their orders were. Many of them were young, fresh out of the academy they shouldn't have to experience what they were about to experience shortly.
If the top brass of the Atlantic Empire was really wanting him to do this, then they must really want the war because despite what the orders say, this attack he was soon about to order to his fleet wouldn't lower the enemy moral, it would cause an all-out war between High-Born and Norms.
He picked up the phone next to his chair, allowed it to float in mid-air for a few moments, then he held it again and opened a channel to every ship of the 4th fleet. Everyone would be able to hear him give the damning order.
"The 4th fleet has received orders to launch a direct attack against the Mars Union's 'Antaries' space colony. The attack is to commence in one hour, all ships standby for orders to move out" He put the phone back down, cursing the top brass for this order.
The Antaries space colony was one of many throughout Sol, and just like many throughout Sol, it was habited by over 450,000 civilians. It was the top brass' hope that destroying the colony with nuclear weapons would lower the moral of the High-Born to the point they would get back in line.
The fact they were using nuclear missiles against civilians was just the icing on the cake, showing that the Atlantic Empire would go to any lengths to achieve victory. He cursed again and gave the order for the 4th fleet to move out.
Chapter 6 – "Doomsday"
Mark Johnson
Mark sipped at his coffee as the holographic meeting between the Atlantic Empire's top commanders came to a close. So it was soon to happen, they had taken his orders and had commanded the 4th lunar fleet to launch a nuclear attack against the High-Born colony of Antaries.
He knew that over 400,000 High-Born civilians, mostly woman and children, lived there. He also knew that that colony had no military worth and no military defence, the perfect plan.
It would show the damn High-Born that Earth wouldn't be pushed around, that they wouldn't get away for killing his family. The attack would likely show the High-Born that they had better get back in line, and if it led to a full-out war then so what? Earth would be forced to kill every last one of them. A win-win situation for him, really.
He looked at the clock; the attack would be starting right about now. He leaned back in his chair and smiled, sometimes life could be so sweet.
Chapter 7 – "First day of war"
Jonathan Sander
The colony of Antaries had just come into visual range. Like most space colonies in Sol, and most military bases, the colony was created from a large chunk of asteroid, it made creating the base a lot easier as the structure was more or less there, it was just creating the inside that remained the problem.
"Entering missile range, sir" One of the weapons officers said from behind him. "Ready to fire on your command"
"Sir," A communication ensign called over, "We are receiving a transmission from the Antaries colony."
Jonathan sighed; they had most likely already contacted the Mars Union asking for help upon seeing the 4th fleet arrive. He indicated for the ensign to put the message through to speakers.
Soon a female voice came over that the whole forth fleet could hear: "This is Sam Marsh, governor of Antaries, to the Atlantic Empire fleet. You have entered Mars Union territory and are kindly requested to leave this area of space."
"Load missiles tubes one through five with nuclear missiles; stand by to fire on my order. Repeat the order to the fleet" He said, picking up the phone to exchange words with the governor.
"This is fleet-admiral Jonathan Sander, commander of the Atlantic Empire's 4th lunar fleet. I'm sorry governor but I have to refuse that order" He said grimly, many of his crew looking sad and beginning to hate this order.
The governor's voice now sounded panic stricken, knowing the worst was yet to come but somehow she knew that the colony was scheduled for destruction. "This will cause war, millions will die, and you know that?"
"I am truly sorry," He said closing the connection. "Signal the fleet: Fire missiles"
The twenty five battleship and eighteen destroyers each launched five nuclear missiles at the large asteroid colony. Moments later bright flashes of light lit the view screen as chunks of Antaries fell away from its main structure. The colony began to spin off its axis as the remaining missiles hit. As soon as it had began it was over, all that was left of Antaries was a blackened debris filled hole of space were 450,000 civilians had just died.
He stood from his chair; holding onto the side's to stop him from floating and saluted into space, as did the other bridge crew. They all knew war was just around the corner because of what they had done.