Chapter 3: Judgment Call
"Currently we're moving in three battalions of Marines and a battalion of tanks and Goliaths to deal with those Hunter Killers and whatever might be controlling them," Jackson reported. "I'm keeping Nova in command of the operation and for now she's doing fine."
The entire Inner Circle minus Reikson had gathered around the round table in the conference room. The room was simple and used mainly for small meetings they held everyday. When they greeted the leaders of potential allies, they used a different room. This one suited their needs and nothing too fancy was required.
"This is not a happy development," said Samantha. "We had thought we'd killed all the Zerg on Tarsonis."
"We simply have to live with it," said Jorgensen. "Lt. Commander Reikson will be coming soon and we need to give him a good impression."
"Very true," Jackson agreed. "Anyways, that situation is more or less contained. On another topic, our doctors say they will begin the operation to remove that tumor or whatever in Stukov's brain tomorrow once preparations are complete. They're hopeful, but don't want to push their luck."
"As long as we get some answers," said Samantha. "James, what did our Protoss friends want?"
Raynor snapped out of a trance he had been in and collected his thoughts.
"It's actually a rather interesting proposal," he began. "The Protoss are ready to make a move against Duran and they want us to provide a distraction."
"I assume they're attacking Braxis?" Samantha guessed. "While it would be nice to be finally rid of Duran, how are we supposed to provide a diversion?"
"By attacking other Zerg-held worlds," James replied. "The problem is the Protoss are worried that if they attack Duran, the other Cerebrates might make a move. Therefore, if we also launched a strike, their attention would be split."
The others couldn't argue with the logic. A pity it failed so many times in battle.
"Who came up with this idea?" Jackson asked.
"I think Balthazar did. Remember him?"
"Of course. The Protoss Executor that nearly led us to our deaths on Aiur. He's one hell of a strategist," Samantha conceded. "What if the Zerg suddenly counterattack us?"
"The Protoss are willing to spare a small fleet to defend Tarsonis during the operation," James answered.
"The next question is what's our target," said Jackson.
"We'll be testing the new nuke soon," said Samantha. "Why not just hold off until the Protoss launch their own attack? Besides, this way we'll be committing minimal resources for an operation that might cripple the enemy."
Jackson looked over at the others and saw they agreed with Samantha. He raised a hand to catch their attention.
"The testing of the nuke will probably suffice as a distraction, but I think we should use this opportunity to get something else we need."
The others looked at him curiously and waited for an explanation.
"We will need a great deal of Khaydarin Crystals to build the Millennium, and we can use the confusion of the Zerg forces to land on Aiur and maybe grab enough to begin construction."
The idea was incredulous and bold. Samantha smiled as she mentally agreed with it. She folded her hands and leaned onto the table.
"I'm sure we can pull that off," she said.
"This would entail a special operations team," said James. "With support from a few Goliaths and tanks."
"The operation can't be too big," said Samantha. "We'll need two freighters, maybe four Valkyries, and five platoons of Marines along with a platoon of Goliaths and another of tanks. That should be small enough not to attract too much attention and still be strong enough to survive skirmishes against Zerg forces."
"The Protoss might not like us taking their sacred Khaydarin Crystals," Jorgensen reminded his friends. "These Crystals are very important to them both religiously and from a strategic point of view."
"We'll have to risk it," Samantha persisted. "I know we're allies with the Protoss, but we're fighting the Zerg in our own way. Besides, it's likely we'll only be taking enough to build the new shield technology and maybe repair it from time to time. By the way, how is progress on reverse- engineering the Protoss shield technology? We may want to duplicate this one day."
Jorgensen shook his head in frustration. "My scientists and yours are having trouble figuring out how it works. Protoss technology doesn't use circuits and such to operate. They use some kind of crystal network, which isn't too surprising. However, we can't duplicate these crystals at the moment so we can't reproduce their parts. Once we get that far we don't even really need to know what their operating principles are."
That was certainly true enough. One did not need to know how something worked to use it. Sarah looked over at Jackson with an expectant look. He shook his head.
"I know you told us to concentrate on the antimatter weapons technology the Protoss have, but we're having trouble with it too. While we can integrate it and integrate it well into Terran technology, figuring out how it really works and building more is trickier."
"Just tell me the things won't blow up when we're using them," said Samantha.
"They won't. I assure you of that."
Samantha nodded and turned forward. "Good enough. But I want to take another look at the Millennium's designs."
Jackson touched a few controls and the hologram of the warship appeared.
"The Millennium's hull and superstructure will be comprised of a titanium- graphite alloy, as you already know," he began. "However, you should keep in mind that very little of our technology has been put into it. The majority of the weapons will be the photon cannons we got from the Protoss as gifts. As all of you will remember, we helped search for some of their people who were separated from the rest of the race.
"The other weapons systems installed are point defense lasers, the missile system adapted from the Valkyries, and Protoss scarab launchers and manufacturing. The missiles and their launch system were redesigned just for this ship and manufactured separately. One salvo from the Millennium would be enough to punch through the shields of a Protoss carrier while a second salvo would completely destroy it. Of course, this would come in very handy when facing large groups of Zerg units. The scarab launchers and manufacturing technology was mostly salvaged from the wrecks of Protoss Reavers we've come across. This gives the Millennium a devastating weapon that is excellent for taking down large ground units as well as air units. The missiles are of course still confined to firing on aerial targets.
"The main reactor for the Millennium is also from a Protoss carrier. The Protoss helped us repair it and we also utilized three fusion reactors as backup and for extra power during battles. Because of the efficiency of the Protoss energy reserve banks, we also utilized them for storing extra power for the Yamato cannon we will install on the ship. With them, the Millennium will be capable of firing two shots right after the other.
"Another advantage the Millennium has over our other ships is the shield generator. This is another thing we pulled off the carrier. We have plans to enhance it to create a more powerful version of the psionic/magnetic shield but that will require a good deal of Khaydarin Crystals will be needed to complete it. It might be a good idea to share this technology with the Protoss, give them something back."
Samantha nodded and waited for him to continue.
"My personal favorite toy that we installed on the Millennium was the Interceptor factory we also took from the Protoss carrier we salvaged. Because the Millennium is so much larger than the Protoss carriers, and despite everything else we've packed inside, we still have more than enough room to stuff twelve Interceptors into it while still leaving room for three squadrons of our Wraith D fighters.
"The final piece of equipment is a Protoss warp drive. Even though we do have designs and such for the warp drives the UED brought with them, the Protoss drive is much more advanced, as expected. With this, we would be able to travel to Earth in a matter of possibly, oh, two years."
"James could have used that," Samantha noted.
Jackson nodded. "However, we hadn't managed to get it working in time and we did make enhancements to the UED warp drives. Besides, we need it now for the Millennium."
"Any way to reverse-engineer that?" Raynor asked.
"We're actually making progress with the warp drive," Jackson answered. "Within another year, I think we can improve the UED drives to be fifty percent as efficient and fast as the Protoss drive."
Throughout the entire briefing the images on the hologram rotated about, showing the sections Jackson mentioned. All in all, the Millennium would be an impressive vessel and perhaps it would turn the tide against the Zerg.
"For some reason, it's inspirational to know that we'll soon have that much firepower," James joked.
The others smiled and Samantha turned to other topics.
"After we get the Khaydarin Crystals and test the nukes, and providing it works, should we begin a general offensive against the Zerg or take down Mengsk first?" Sarah asked, "For that matter, do we have the resources to do something like that?"
"Ground troops shouldn't be a problem," said Jorgensen. "Providing the cloning facilities work as planned."
"Then we have ammunition and food," Jackson continued. "And don't forget the equipment our soldiers will need."
"I think Omega Squadron can provide most of those," said James. "Hopefully. But at the very least we're going to hurt the Zergs bad. Isn't that worth it?"
Jackson nodded. "Or we rout the so-called Emperor and finish off the Dominion."
"No. We offer the Dominion a chance to join the Alliance but without Mengsk," said Samantha. "If we provide a unified front, we could finish off the Zerg very quickly and maybe build something that won't get destroyed."
"Perhaps we could launch a double campaign," Jorgensen suggested. "The Dominion is a threat to us and we should move to defeat it. But I'm quite sure we'll have the resources to also maintain an offensive against the Zerg as well, concentrating on one brood at a time. Besides, we'll have the help of the Protoss fighting the Zerg."
Samantha looked around. "Any objections?"
The two other men shook their heads.
"Fine. But I suggest we use the Norad III as the command ship for the Dominion Campaign. Better to lose that than the Aleksander."
"The Aleksander won't be going anywhere for a while," Jackson reminded them. "It's currently going through major refits. We're fusing Protoss alloy into its armor along with upgrading its weapons, remember? And we're modifying the fusion reactor and adding on a sensor package."
"Good point," said Samantha. "We'll see how many ships we can commit to fighting the Dominion. The rest will be concentrated against the Zerg and defending our worlds."
"We'll discuss this with Commander Reikson when he gets here," said Jackson. "When are the Protoss going to attack?"
"About a month," said James, "I'm not sure why but that's the date they've set."
"Okay," Samantha agreed. "Tell Artanis that we're in, but try to find out why one month from now."
"Yes ma'am."
The meeting broke up and James contacted Artanis. A hologram of the Protoss appeared on James' desk.
"Admiral Raynor. Do you have an answer?"
"We're in," James told him. "The only question we really have is why one month."
"It will require one month to complete the first of the Tassadar-class battleships," said Artanis, "and thus we will have another month to prepare for the invasion."
"Oh. Well, those ships would definitely add a lot of muscle to your fleets. Good luck on your mission, Artanis."
"The same to you, Admiral Raynor. I will return to Shakuras and inform the Executor of your decision."
Artanis signed off, leaving Raynor to think about what had transpired.
"So we're finally going to pay the Zerg back," he thought aloud. "Fine by me."
Alarms started blaring again, waking up the Commodore. He had taken some time to sleep but apparently even that was a luxury nowadays. Immediately he ran to the bridge.
"Report."
"Another warp-in has been detected sir," the officer said. "I'm detecting even more Zerg units and they're accelerating. It looks like they're trying to bypass our picket line."
"Like hell," the commodore swore. "Have the computers get us a firing solution and I want all units to surrender fire control to the AI."
"Yes sir."
After the AI had done the calculations the UED forces opened fire, catching the Zerg as they raced towards them. The firepower was extremely accurate and forced the survivors to go around the dead carcasses, buying the UED forces more time. The surviving frigates charged forward and unleashed their missiles. They cut down the scattered Zerg units, not allowing them any time to regroup. However, Scourges suddenly warped out and charged them.
The picket force of Wraiths and Valkyries fought to the death as Scourges slammed into them, blowing them to pieces. A squadron of Wraiths pulled away from the wreckage and made another run, shooting up several Mutalisks that were trying to sneak through the fighting. Still more Scourges appeared and knocked down three of the fighters.
"Damn," the Commodore muttered. "Status report."
"We've lost 82% of the picket line sir, and the Zerg are making short work of the rest."
"What about the Zerg? How many did we take out?"
A few seconds later the lieutenant had the answer.
"Zerg forces have suffered 9% losses. Our forces managed to take out most of the first wave but I'm detecting what looks like eight others."
His knuckles turning white from clenching the armrest, the Commodore again considered his options.
"All destroyers, turn to the side and fire all batteries."
The formation of UED destroyers suddenly started turning so their starboard or port side was facing the Zerg. Within seconds all of them were firing everything they had and missiles and lasers streaked towards the Zerg fleet. Many found their mark and destroyed their targets while others exploded harmlessly. The picket forces quickly flew out of the line of fire but the Zerg would not relent. It wasn't long before the last scream died out as the Wraith exploded.
"The way's clear," the Commodore stated. "All destroyers, unload one nuke each and clear out the Zerg clustered behind us."
Each ship followed orders and another barrage of missiles took off. They detonated along the entire formation of Zerg forces and blew apart possibly a quarter of them. As the explosion dissipated and the shockwave swept across space, the Commodore saw the massive fleet behind the destroyed Zergs.
"Commodore," a lieutenant said nervously. "I am detecting what looks like twenty thousand Zerg flyers approaching us."
The Commodore nodded. "I see them. We have to slow the Zerg down here. I want Formations 2, 6, and 9 to fire their remaining nuclear missiles."
Another salvo went and ripped a massive hole in the center of the Zerg formation but it was quickly plugged. The Commodore frowned. If only they had strategic warheads, he could do much more. Suddenly the radio cracked on.
"Commodore, move your ships from our line of fire. We'll handle this."
Suddenly he noticed that fifty of the rear battlecruisers had turned around and were charging their Yamato guns. Immediately every destroyer maneuvered to the side. Once ready, the battlecruisers unleashed a massive wave of energy upon the Zerg. The force of fifty Yamato blasts built up into a shockwave and ran head-on into the Zerg forces. It simply obliterated the foremost Zerg and continued on, shredding to pieces everything it touched until more than half of the surviving Zerg were dead and the rest were crippled. The destroyers fell back into line and fired off more nukes, finishing off the second attack force. The battle hadn't lasted that long but it weakened the Swarm and might possibly buy the Admiral more time. The Commodore sighed and sank into his seat. Something told him he wouldn't survive the next assault.
Samantha was looking into a small pressurized chamber that held Admiral Stukov, or what used to be him. The operation had gone off without a hitch and was successful. Now they just had to see if it worked. Restraints kept him from moving as a security precaution and several Marines were simply waiting for a chance to put some bullets into the infested Terran. Slowly he became conscious.
"Admiral Stukov, can you hear me?" Samantha asked.
Stukov blinked a few times but didn't turn his head. However, he managed to speak, his voice deepened and with the quality of an infested human.
"Who are you?"
"I'm Commander Samantha Hardy," she answered, "My men found you on the Norad III and brought you here."
"Where is Admiral DuGalle?" Stukov asked.
"He's dead. Most of the UED fleet is heading back to Earth and the rest are with me."
"Why?"
"Kerrigan defeated the UED," Sarah informed him. "Right now she's in pursuit. My husband's currently the acting-admiral."
Stukov took a deep, labored breath before continuing to speak.
"What has happened since Duran shot me?"
"You remember?"
"Of course. What has happened?"
"The UED succeeded in taking control of the Overmind with the assistance of the Psi Disruptor, but Kerrigan tricked Mengsk, Admiral Raynor, and Fenix into helping her destroy it. She then retook Korhal and forced the Dark Templars to kill the Overmind for her. After that there was a combined effort by the UED, the Terran Dominion, and the Protoss to kill her, but she defeated all three of them."
"You said your husband is the acting-admiral," said Stukov. "Who is your husband and where is he?"
"My husband is James Kris and he's currently leading the UED fleet back to report what happened. It is my belief that he will be attempting to rally Earth and try to defeat the Swarm in the Sol System."
"Captain Kris. Good man." Stukov closed his eyes. "But what am I?"
"Admiral Stukov, don't you remember who you are?" Samantha asked.
"My name is Alexei Stukov, I was the vice-admiral of the UED expeditionary fleet under Fleet Admiral Gerard DuGalle. I am fully aware of who I am. But what am I?"
Samantha hesitated, but finally told him. "You've been infested, Admiral. We don't know how as you were reported dead after Duran shot you, but somehow the Zerg got hold of your body."
"Duran," Stukov spat. "Traitorous scum. I'm infested? Then why do I still think as a human?"
"For some reason your brain is naturally rejecting the neural impulses from the infested regions," Samantha explained. "Also, we removed some of the infested portions of your brain. Your body is only twenty percent Zerg. For some reason the infestation has stopped there and has been integrated into your body."
"Where are we?" Stukov asked.
"We're on Tarsonis."
Stukov's eyes went wide as if there was something horribly wrong.
"No, we can't be here! We have to get out of here!"
"Admiral, calm down! What's wrong!"
"Zerg, there's Zerg on Tarsonis! At a lab, a genetics lab on the main continent. Duran! It was his lab! We have to get out of here!"
"Admiral, we found the lab and are cleansing it even as we speak. Everything is going to be okay."
"You don't understand!" Stukov screamed. "They're different! They're stronger!"
"Admiral, calm down and talk to me! What is the problem!"
Stukov was breathing at a rapid rate and seemed to start convulsing when he suddenly calmed down.
"Gene-splicing experiment on Braxis. Protoss, Zerg genetic splicing. Duran, conducted, them. These Zerg, have, Protoss DNA."
He seemed to collapse from exhaustion and Samantha was about to walk away when he spoke again.
"They, can produce psionic shields. Stronger, smarter, faster. Don't, know how much, firepower is needed to, kill them."
"Thank you for your help Admiral," said Samantha. "Get some rest. We'll take care of the Zerg."
Samantha turned away again but Stukov had one last thing to say.
"Your, husband, he's a good, man."
"That he is."
She left the room and placed a call to Jackson. His face appeared on the screen.
"What is it Sam?"
"We have a problem," she said. "According to Admiral Stukov, these Zerg are different. Apparently Duran ran some kind of gene-splicing project on Braxis and he's used those techniques to create Zergs with Protoss DNA. They can produce psionic shields and are stronger, faster, and smarter because of it too."
"Oh hell. Okay, I'm going to send in more troops. What'll it take to kill them?"
"Stukov doesn't know, but we should make sure no Zerg gets out of that area alive."
"Of course. And Sam, you sure we can trust him?"
"He seems sane right now," she answered. "For now, yes. But once he becomes unstable, we might have to kill him."
"Alright. Anything else?"
"Not at the moment. I need to go to Veronica now. She gets rather fussy if I'm away for too long."
The doors closed behind her
"So Artanis, what did the humans say?"
"They are willing to help us," Artanis reported to the council.
"Good," said Balthazar. "Mojo, you will command the escort for our battle fleet. With your forces, you are to secure a landing area for our army."
"Yes Executor."
"Artanis, once Mojo has brought our troops in, you will assume operational command. You are to destroy the Terran defenses, but try to keep their primary structures intact. We will need to access their databanks to find out what they were up to. The Alliance might also appreciate some more hardware."
"Yes Executor."
"Remember the crimes that Duran has committed against our race," Balthazar continued. "He was the one that kidnapped Raszagal and corrupted her, and he is the one that created this Hybrid. It is time we paid him back in full."
The Protoss council members stood and bowed before exiting. Balthazar placed a hand on Artanis' shoulder and stopped him. The two waited for all the other warriors to leave.
"Artanis. You have spent some time looking over the genetic archive the Xel'Naga left in their temple, have you not?"
Artanis nodded. "Yes. I was hoping perhaps they left some information regarding the Zerg, or at least provide us with a clue as to what the Zerg's weaknesses are."
"Keep your friends close and your enemies closer," Balthazar muttered. "That is apparently an old Terran saying."
"It shows surprising insight."
"Indeed." Balthazar sighed and looked around the chamber. "We were once the most powerful race in this region of space, and now we are forced to avoid combat against our greatest enemy. The Zerg truly are a marvel. And now, we learn that a race that perhaps combines the strengths of the Protoss and Zerg will awaken soon. It is enough to give even me nightmares."
"We have overcome much together, Executor. I am sure we confident overcome this new threat as well," Artanis said defiantly.
Balthazar nodded. "Good. Good. You still have that fire young warriors possess. I think it is time I shared something of great concern with you. I myself have been studying the archives of the Xel'Naga and I have found something that could very well be our salvation."
"And what would that be?" Artanis asked.
With a gesture, Balthazar turned and stood up straighter. "The Xel'Naga were not always researchers, scientists that strove to create the most perfect being. In fact, there was a time when they used their power and technology to conquer an empire stretching galaxies, not just systems. Why they chose this galaxy for their Grand Experiment is beyond our understanding, but in the end is a blessing to us. We understand very little of their technologies even though we were born from them, even though we know how to use the source of their power."
"The Khaydarin Crystals," said Artanis.
"Yes. That was the source of their power. In the archives, I have run across several references to a great weapon. A ship, actually. It is supposed to be the most powerful vessel ever built by the Xel'Naga, so large and powerful that nothing could withstand it. By itself, it could maintain an entire civilization."
Artanis frowned. "Are you sure this isn't simply another reference to the Worldships?"
Balthazar shook his head. "Hardly. The Worldships were never designed for war. They were used to transport the entire Xel'Naga race from one place to another in their Grand Experiment. It is my belief, that this weapon will be the final key in destroying the Zerg."
"But where is this vessel located?" Artanis asked.
"That is what we must find out," said Balthazar. "If only Zeratul were here. Then I could have him search for it."
"Why don't I go?" Artanis asked.
Balthazar shook his head. "No. I need a Dark Templar to carry out this task."
"Then perhaps the new Dark Templar Praetor," Artanis suggested.
With another shake of his head, Balthazar looked at his friend.
"Artanis, you do not understand something regarding this ship. I require someone I fully trust, but is also a Dark Templar. It will take a Dark Templar to navigate the dangers that stand in the way before they can find the ship. I do not mean to cast doubt upon our own brethren, but at times like this one must be careful."
"Surely there is someone you trust to take care of this."
Balthazar considered the words and nodded. "I believe there is. However, I will require your wisdom in making this choice as well."
"As you wish, Executor."
Artanis bowed and the two walked out of the conference chamber.
The main audience chamber of the Terran Dominion held Mengsk's elite guards, the Emperor himself, and his current petitioner. Or perhaps ally.
"Samir Duran. What an unexpected surprise it is to see you."
"Emperor Mengsk. As long as it isn't unpleasant, surprises are always good. How have you been doing?"
"Well enough. What brings you to Korhal to meet with a man you've publicly denounced as a terrorist?" Mengsk asked.
"I have a proposition for you," Duran answered, his voice deepening and gaining a grating quality. "As you are well aware of, I control a rather large force of soldiers on Braxis, along with an entire brood. You have something I want and I can supply you with a powerful fighting force."
Mengsk leaned forward with a dangerous glint in his eye. "And why should I even let you live? I could kill you right here, right now."
Duran smiled and stared back at the Emperor. "You could, but then my entire brood will descend upon Korhal and you'd be hard pressed to defeat them all. Some will survive and start spreading, and before you know it Korhal will be another Zerg world."
"Hmm. A valid point. Tell me, what is it that you want?"
"The plans for the psi emitter and resources."
"The psi emitter? Why would you be interested in that?"
"I have my reasons," Duran replied. "Do we have a deal?"
"What kind of resources will you need?" Mengsk pressed.
"I will require resources to support my own troops and my brood, which shouldn't be too hard for you to come by. Also, I have several projects that I am running that I will need supplies for. And I will require that you do not interfere with what I am doing on Braxis."
"And what would you be doing on Braxis?"
"Emperor Mengsk, I am offering you the power to defeat your enemies," said Duran. "Don't annoy me so much that I walk away."
Mengsk himself was getting slightly annoyed at Duran's attitude but realized that he would indeed be a powerful ally. To have an entire Zerg brood at his control? He could then crush the pathetic Alliance and keep control over his own subjects. And if he had to, he'd deal with Duran later.
"Very well Lieutenant Duran. You have a deal."
Duran handed Mengsk a data pad.
"This specifies the resources that I will need by the end of the week," said Duran. "As of now, my Terran military forces are at your command. Once I receive the resources, I will use my brood to strike out at one of your enemies."
"Good. Very good. When you receive the resources, this is your first target."
Mengsk wrote something on the data pad and handed it back to Duran. The infested Ghost raised an eyebrow.
"I had expected Tarsonis or Shakuras, but this is a rather interesting choice. However, I believe I understand why you would choose this."
"I want them removed," said Mengsk. "This will provide better stability for me and enough time for me to take care of certain traitorous elements here."
"Very well, Emperor Mengsk. I will strike at Mar Sara, and at Alpha Squadron. Once the supplies have been delivered."
Mengsk nodded in agreement and Duran walked out of the room. After he disappeared the Emperor called in an attendant and handed the person the data pad.
"Deliver the specified supplies and resources on this data pad to Braxis."
"Braxis? But sir-"
"Do it!"
"Y-yes sir."
The attendant ran out of the room and into the corridors. He quickly delivered the orders to the appropriate party but immediately left to palace and went to a bar afterwards. Inside one of the bartenders saw him and waved him to the back.
"The Emperor is sending supplies to Braxis," the attendant blurted out.
"Braxis? Isn't that where pirate militias and a Zerg force is located?" the bartender asked.
The attendant nodded. "It's possible he's made an alliance of some sort of deal with them. The Dominion's forces have been rather depleted and he would need more troops."
"Very well," said the bartender. "I'll pass it along."
After ordering a quick drink the attendant hurried back to Mengsk's palace. He still had a cover to maintain.
Alpha Squadron had reoccupied Mar Sara after the Zerg had abandoned the planet after the Protoss glassed it. Currently there was a massive military presence as Alpha Squadron had slowly been built back up. The death of Edmund Duke had simply allowed the leaders of Alpha Squadron start looking at newer ways of doing things. And the current leader of Alpha Squadron, General Henry Orion, was certainly glad that he had a new defensive network set up. There were currently five major defensive platforms in orbit of Chau Sara and each had an Ion Cannon. On the surface he had built twenty more Cannons to cover the entire planet but would need more for a proper network. However, resources were tight and he had many projects running.
One final piece of advanced technology was a massive shipyard being built. Using the asteroids in the Sara System, they had finished construction of the defensive platforms as well as three new battlecruisers. Like the Alliance, General Orion knew the importance of having a full shipyard. Thus, he ordered the construction of a state-of-the-art shipyard to bolster his production capabilities. And even with the Zerg Cerebrate on Chau Sara, Alpha Squadron wasn't about to run. One day, they would retake their original headquarters and establish another Terran stronghold.
The soldiers were also slightly different. They were more committed to this new Alpha Squadron and were more willing to give their lives to defend the ideals of their leaders. Currently there had been a great deal of restlessness within the ranks of the high command and there was a growing faction of colonels and majors that felt that Alpha Squadron should no longer support Emperor Mengsk. He had blundered many times and right now the Terran Dominion was rather unstable. However, there was another faction that believed that Alpha Squadron would be considered nothing more than backstabbing traitors forever if they turned coat again.
So far General Orion hadn't showed his hand, but he had already displayed discontent with Mengsk and frustration at the Terran Dominion. If he formally made a decision to split from the Dominion, most of the staff officers and soldiers would follow him.
"General Orion, we received an intelligence report from one of our agents."
Henry had been talking with his senior staff officers when the man came in. He gave Henry a data pad and stood at his side waiting for a reaction. Scrolling down the message quickly, Henry reviewed the most important parts. There didn't seem to be much of importance except something was nagging at him.
"Colonel Walker, what do we have on Braxis?" Henry asked.
"It's currently occupied by a large force of renegade Terran troops," Walker began. "They're not really well equipped in the air but have a sizeable ground force. Something happen?"
Henry gave the datapad back to the officer and he walked out. He then turned to his other officers.
"Emperor Mengsk just decided to send a great deal of supplies to Braxis and I assume it is to help the renegade Terrans there."
One of the officers scoffed. "When did he care about other Terrans? They probably signed a deal with him because of the Zergs."
Walker nodded. "There is also an entire Zerg brood occupying much of the planet. However, they seem to be leaving the Terran bases alone, though we don't know why."
"Kind of reminds me of Alan Schezar," Henry muttered.
A few of the officers grew concerned with that comment.
"You don't seriously believe another Terran has learned how to control the Zerg," Magellan asked.
Henry regarded the science officer. He was a good friend and had stayed with Henry even after they had defeated Schezar on Aiur. It was always wise to consider his advice.
"Let's hope this isn't the case," said Henry. "We had a hell of a time chasing Schezar across the sector all the way to Aiur. I heard the Protoss later killed him."
"And his entire pirate organization decided to join the Alliance, though they aren't stupid enough to mess with the Zerg," said Walker. "Should we be concerned about this move?"
Henry shook his head. "Mengsk is just trying to replenish the Dominion's forces. We're actually the only other Squadron in any shape to fight. His Elite Guards are still pretty strong though."
"Mengsk can't afford to lose us," said a colonel. "We control half of his troops and he knows it."
"True enough," said Henry. "All right, what else is there?"
"Norad III was lost in an ambush of some sort," said Walker. "We don't know much, but the captain's distress signal said something about a Protoss Arbiter and being jumped by like three battlecruisers."
Henry shrugged. "Norad III is a bad loss, but as long as it wasn't destroyed we Terrans didn't grow any weaker."
"What makes you think it wasn't destroyed?" a colonel asked.
"Cause there was no I'm dead signal from it. I'm pretty sure it was captured, most likely by the Alliance. They're the only ones with the resources and motive to pull it off."
"What about the Combine?"
Magellan shook his head. "No motive. They do a lot of business with Mengsk and I doubt the Combine really wants to pick a fight right now."
"We'll see," said Henry. "But for now, go to Alert Status 2. I want to be ready to fight at a moment's notice."
The other officers nodded before Henry left the room. Something in him told him they hadn't seen the last of Mengsk's treachery.
Duran watched as the freighters docked and unloaded all of the supplies. Finally the biotech laboratories would return to full operations. The raid that Zeratul had launched disrupted his operations more than he cared to admit. His primary objective was to develop a new warrior breed using the Protoss and Zerg race to serve his masters once they awakened. So far, he'd had limited success. It was a pity that Stukov had escaped before he could finish with him though. Stukov had held great promise. He would have served the masters well.
The most successful of Duran's experiments involved Hunter Killers that had been implanted with Protoss genes. These made the creatures far more intelligent and powerful, also giving them the ability to project psi shields, though they were rather weak compared to the ones the Protoss themselves generated, even with their machines. However, they had been lost on Tarsonis so Duran had to restart the project. The only good news was that all of the data from the advanced Hunter Killers survived. The new batch would be born in a day and then he'd field test them against Alpha Squadron.
The newest of Duran's experiments were far more powerful than their predecessors. These new Hunter Killers had stronger shields, could move faster, and fired toxic spines. However, there was another experiment that Duran wanted to run but didn't have the resources. If he could capture a Ghost, he'd have all that he'd need.
"Lieutenant Duran."
Duran turned and looked at the Terran soldier standing before him.
"The unloading has been completed."
"Good. Begin final construction stages of the biotech lab. I want no mistakes."
"Yes sir."
Duran waved the soldier off. He had other matters to attend to. A dropship appeared and he boarded. Though the pilot was nervous about flying him to a Zerg base, he really didn't have much of a choice. The dropship landed and Duran walked off. The pilot lifted off immediately, glad to be out of that area. Duran walked amongst the Zerg units, ignoring most of them. He stopped before a large field of eggs. Drones wandered through the field, checking upon the eggs to make sure nothing was wrong. These eggs were beyond value. However, it took them too long to mature. There was no solution to that. Even though he had the right technology it was extremely difficult to use it on these creatures. They were simply too powerful to clone and thus the only thing left was accelerated growth.
Something inside one of the eggs started growling. Duran smiled. They would hatch soon. Everything was going according to plan.
Samantha shook hands with Lt. Commander Gregory Reikson. The man was rather imposing and confident. Raynor didn't know if he was imagining it, but Reikson looked larger than he did before. Or maybe the video screen hadn't done him proper justice. He then took his designated seat and remained quiet. Raynor then informed him what was going on.
"We've been made an offer by the Protoss," he began, "to participate in a massive attack against Duran on Braxis. They've asked us to launch a diversionary attack."
"And you want me to participate," said Reikson.
"Not really," said Sarah. "We're just telling you what the Protoss are planning. However, what we plan to do is extract something we need on Aiur."
"You're joking," Reikson said with a shake of his head. "Aiur is off limits for a reason. The Zerg have a firm foothold on the planet and any attempt to attack them would be suicidal. I'm pretty sure your Protoss buddies also told you that."
"Actually, they don't know we're going to do this."
Reikson looked at them with a questioning stare.
"The Protoss probably would be pissed at us if they found out what we were going after, but we have no choice," said Sarah. "As things stand, we need freighters. I'm pretty sure you have some."
"Freighters aren't a problem," Reikson said after a few seconds. "However, I don't have enough weapons to outfit an attack force. We're still stockpiling ammunition and such."
"That is of no concern," said Jackson. "My men are trained for covert operations and such."
"What exactly are you going after?" Reikson asked them.
"Let's just say it's something that will help us greatly in our war against the Zerg," said Sarah. "Don't take this the wrong way. We will tell you what it is after the ships return safely. However, for now, the less you know, the safer you are."
"I see. Is it really that dangerous?"
All of them nodded.
"Very well then. I'll accept that for now. As a show of good faith, I shall supply you with freighters and even some escorts. Now, shall we go about seeing how I am to integrate my forces into this Alliance?"
End of Chapter 3
Z98
"Currently we're moving in three battalions of Marines and a battalion of tanks and Goliaths to deal with those Hunter Killers and whatever might be controlling them," Jackson reported. "I'm keeping Nova in command of the operation and for now she's doing fine."
The entire Inner Circle minus Reikson had gathered around the round table in the conference room. The room was simple and used mainly for small meetings they held everyday. When they greeted the leaders of potential allies, they used a different room. This one suited their needs and nothing too fancy was required.
"This is not a happy development," said Samantha. "We had thought we'd killed all the Zerg on Tarsonis."
"We simply have to live with it," said Jorgensen. "Lt. Commander Reikson will be coming soon and we need to give him a good impression."
"Very true," Jackson agreed. "Anyways, that situation is more or less contained. On another topic, our doctors say they will begin the operation to remove that tumor or whatever in Stukov's brain tomorrow once preparations are complete. They're hopeful, but don't want to push their luck."
"As long as we get some answers," said Samantha. "James, what did our Protoss friends want?"
Raynor snapped out of a trance he had been in and collected his thoughts.
"It's actually a rather interesting proposal," he began. "The Protoss are ready to make a move against Duran and they want us to provide a distraction."
"I assume they're attacking Braxis?" Samantha guessed. "While it would be nice to be finally rid of Duran, how are we supposed to provide a diversion?"
"By attacking other Zerg-held worlds," James replied. "The problem is the Protoss are worried that if they attack Duran, the other Cerebrates might make a move. Therefore, if we also launched a strike, their attention would be split."
The others couldn't argue with the logic. A pity it failed so many times in battle.
"Who came up with this idea?" Jackson asked.
"I think Balthazar did. Remember him?"
"Of course. The Protoss Executor that nearly led us to our deaths on Aiur. He's one hell of a strategist," Samantha conceded. "What if the Zerg suddenly counterattack us?"
"The Protoss are willing to spare a small fleet to defend Tarsonis during the operation," James answered.
"The next question is what's our target," said Jackson.
"We'll be testing the new nuke soon," said Samantha. "Why not just hold off until the Protoss launch their own attack? Besides, this way we'll be committing minimal resources for an operation that might cripple the enemy."
Jackson looked over at the others and saw they agreed with Samantha. He raised a hand to catch their attention.
"The testing of the nuke will probably suffice as a distraction, but I think we should use this opportunity to get something else we need."
The others looked at him curiously and waited for an explanation.
"We will need a great deal of Khaydarin Crystals to build the Millennium, and we can use the confusion of the Zerg forces to land on Aiur and maybe grab enough to begin construction."
The idea was incredulous and bold. Samantha smiled as she mentally agreed with it. She folded her hands and leaned onto the table.
"I'm sure we can pull that off," she said.
"This would entail a special operations team," said James. "With support from a few Goliaths and tanks."
"The operation can't be too big," said Samantha. "We'll need two freighters, maybe four Valkyries, and five platoons of Marines along with a platoon of Goliaths and another of tanks. That should be small enough not to attract too much attention and still be strong enough to survive skirmishes against Zerg forces."
"The Protoss might not like us taking their sacred Khaydarin Crystals," Jorgensen reminded his friends. "These Crystals are very important to them both religiously and from a strategic point of view."
"We'll have to risk it," Samantha persisted. "I know we're allies with the Protoss, but we're fighting the Zerg in our own way. Besides, it's likely we'll only be taking enough to build the new shield technology and maybe repair it from time to time. By the way, how is progress on reverse- engineering the Protoss shield technology? We may want to duplicate this one day."
Jorgensen shook his head in frustration. "My scientists and yours are having trouble figuring out how it works. Protoss technology doesn't use circuits and such to operate. They use some kind of crystal network, which isn't too surprising. However, we can't duplicate these crystals at the moment so we can't reproduce their parts. Once we get that far we don't even really need to know what their operating principles are."
That was certainly true enough. One did not need to know how something worked to use it. Sarah looked over at Jackson with an expectant look. He shook his head.
"I know you told us to concentrate on the antimatter weapons technology the Protoss have, but we're having trouble with it too. While we can integrate it and integrate it well into Terran technology, figuring out how it really works and building more is trickier."
"Just tell me the things won't blow up when we're using them," said Samantha.
"They won't. I assure you of that."
Samantha nodded and turned forward. "Good enough. But I want to take another look at the Millennium's designs."
Jackson touched a few controls and the hologram of the warship appeared.
"The Millennium's hull and superstructure will be comprised of a titanium- graphite alloy, as you already know," he began. "However, you should keep in mind that very little of our technology has been put into it. The majority of the weapons will be the photon cannons we got from the Protoss as gifts. As all of you will remember, we helped search for some of their people who were separated from the rest of the race.
"The other weapons systems installed are point defense lasers, the missile system adapted from the Valkyries, and Protoss scarab launchers and manufacturing. The missiles and their launch system were redesigned just for this ship and manufactured separately. One salvo from the Millennium would be enough to punch through the shields of a Protoss carrier while a second salvo would completely destroy it. Of course, this would come in very handy when facing large groups of Zerg units. The scarab launchers and manufacturing technology was mostly salvaged from the wrecks of Protoss Reavers we've come across. This gives the Millennium a devastating weapon that is excellent for taking down large ground units as well as air units. The missiles are of course still confined to firing on aerial targets.
"The main reactor for the Millennium is also from a Protoss carrier. The Protoss helped us repair it and we also utilized three fusion reactors as backup and for extra power during battles. Because of the efficiency of the Protoss energy reserve banks, we also utilized them for storing extra power for the Yamato cannon we will install on the ship. With them, the Millennium will be capable of firing two shots right after the other.
"Another advantage the Millennium has over our other ships is the shield generator. This is another thing we pulled off the carrier. We have plans to enhance it to create a more powerful version of the psionic/magnetic shield but that will require a good deal of Khaydarin Crystals will be needed to complete it. It might be a good idea to share this technology with the Protoss, give them something back."
Samantha nodded and waited for him to continue.
"My personal favorite toy that we installed on the Millennium was the Interceptor factory we also took from the Protoss carrier we salvaged. Because the Millennium is so much larger than the Protoss carriers, and despite everything else we've packed inside, we still have more than enough room to stuff twelve Interceptors into it while still leaving room for three squadrons of our Wraith D fighters.
"The final piece of equipment is a Protoss warp drive. Even though we do have designs and such for the warp drives the UED brought with them, the Protoss drive is much more advanced, as expected. With this, we would be able to travel to Earth in a matter of possibly, oh, two years."
"James could have used that," Samantha noted.
Jackson nodded. "However, we hadn't managed to get it working in time and we did make enhancements to the UED warp drives. Besides, we need it now for the Millennium."
"Any way to reverse-engineer that?" Raynor asked.
"We're actually making progress with the warp drive," Jackson answered. "Within another year, I think we can improve the UED drives to be fifty percent as efficient and fast as the Protoss drive."
Throughout the entire briefing the images on the hologram rotated about, showing the sections Jackson mentioned. All in all, the Millennium would be an impressive vessel and perhaps it would turn the tide against the Zerg.
"For some reason, it's inspirational to know that we'll soon have that much firepower," James joked.
The others smiled and Samantha turned to other topics.
"After we get the Khaydarin Crystals and test the nukes, and providing it works, should we begin a general offensive against the Zerg or take down Mengsk first?" Sarah asked, "For that matter, do we have the resources to do something like that?"
"Ground troops shouldn't be a problem," said Jorgensen. "Providing the cloning facilities work as planned."
"Then we have ammunition and food," Jackson continued. "And don't forget the equipment our soldiers will need."
"I think Omega Squadron can provide most of those," said James. "Hopefully. But at the very least we're going to hurt the Zergs bad. Isn't that worth it?"
Jackson nodded. "Or we rout the so-called Emperor and finish off the Dominion."
"No. We offer the Dominion a chance to join the Alliance but without Mengsk," said Samantha. "If we provide a unified front, we could finish off the Zerg very quickly and maybe build something that won't get destroyed."
"Perhaps we could launch a double campaign," Jorgensen suggested. "The Dominion is a threat to us and we should move to defeat it. But I'm quite sure we'll have the resources to also maintain an offensive against the Zerg as well, concentrating on one brood at a time. Besides, we'll have the help of the Protoss fighting the Zerg."
Samantha looked around. "Any objections?"
The two other men shook their heads.
"Fine. But I suggest we use the Norad III as the command ship for the Dominion Campaign. Better to lose that than the Aleksander."
"The Aleksander won't be going anywhere for a while," Jackson reminded them. "It's currently going through major refits. We're fusing Protoss alloy into its armor along with upgrading its weapons, remember? And we're modifying the fusion reactor and adding on a sensor package."
"Good point," said Samantha. "We'll see how many ships we can commit to fighting the Dominion. The rest will be concentrated against the Zerg and defending our worlds."
"We'll discuss this with Commander Reikson when he gets here," said Jackson. "When are the Protoss going to attack?"
"About a month," said James, "I'm not sure why but that's the date they've set."
"Okay," Samantha agreed. "Tell Artanis that we're in, but try to find out why one month from now."
"Yes ma'am."
The meeting broke up and James contacted Artanis. A hologram of the Protoss appeared on James' desk.
"Admiral Raynor. Do you have an answer?"
"We're in," James told him. "The only question we really have is why one month."
"It will require one month to complete the first of the Tassadar-class battleships," said Artanis, "and thus we will have another month to prepare for the invasion."
"Oh. Well, those ships would definitely add a lot of muscle to your fleets. Good luck on your mission, Artanis."
"The same to you, Admiral Raynor. I will return to Shakuras and inform the Executor of your decision."
Artanis signed off, leaving Raynor to think about what had transpired.
"So we're finally going to pay the Zerg back," he thought aloud. "Fine by me."
Alarms started blaring again, waking up the Commodore. He had taken some time to sleep but apparently even that was a luxury nowadays. Immediately he ran to the bridge.
"Report."
"Another warp-in has been detected sir," the officer said. "I'm detecting even more Zerg units and they're accelerating. It looks like they're trying to bypass our picket line."
"Like hell," the commodore swore. "Have the computers get us a firing solution and I want all units to surrender fire control to the AI."
"Yes sir."
After the AI had done the calculations the UED forces opened fire, catching the Zerg as they raced towards them. The firepower was extremely accurate and forced the survivors to go around the dead carcasses, buying the UED forces more time. The surviving frigates charged forward and unleashed their missiles. They cut down the scattered Zerg units, not allowing them any time to regroup. However, Scourges suddenly warped out and charged them.
The picket force of Wraiths and Valkyries fought to the death as Scourges slammed into them, blowing them to pieces. A squadron of Wraiths pulled away from the wreckage and made another run, shooting up several Mutalisks that were trying to sneak through the fighting. Still more Scourges appeared and knocked down three of the fighters.
"Damn," the Commodore muttered. "Status report."
"We've lost 82% of the picket line sir, and the Zerg are making short work of the rest."
"What about the Zerg? How many did we take out?"
A few seconds later the lieutenant had the answer.
"Zerg forces have suffered 9% losses. Our forces managed to take out most of the first wave but I'm detecting what looks like eight others."
His knuckles turning white from clenching the armrest, the Commodore again considered his options.
"All destroyers, turn to the side and fire all batteries."
The formation of UED destroyers suddenly started turning so their starboard or port side was facing the Zerg. Within seconds all of them were firing everything they had and missiles and lasers streaked towards the Zerg fleet. Many found their mark and destroyed their targets while others exploded harmlessly. The picket forces quickly flew out of the line of fire but the Zerg would not relent. It wasn't long before the last scream died out as the Wraith exploded.
"The way's clear," the Commodore stated. "All destroyers, unload one nuke each and clear out the Zerg clustered behind us."
Each ship followed orders and another barrage of missiles took off. They detonated along the entire formation of Zerg forces and blew apart possibly a quarter of them. As the explosion dissipated and the shockwave swept across space, the Commodore saw the massive fleet behind the destroyed Zergs.
"Commodore," a lieutenant said nervously. "I am detecting what looks like twenty thousand Zerg flyers approaching us."
The Commodore nodded. "I see them. We have to slow the Zerg down here. I want Formations 2, 6, and 9 to fire their remaining nuclear missiles."
Another salvo went and ripped a massive hole in the center of the Zerg formation but it was quickly plugged. The Commodore frowned. If only they had strategic warheads, he could do much more. Suddenly the radio cracked on.
"Commodore, move your ships from our line of fire. We'll handle this."
Suddenly he noticed that fifty of the rear battlecruisers had turned around and were charging their Yamato guns. Immediately every destroyer maneuvered to the side. Once ready, the battlecruisers unleashed a massive wave of energy upon the Zerg. The force of fifty Yamato blasts built up into a shockwave and ran head-on into the Zerg forces. It simply obliterated the foremost Zerg and continued on, shredding to pieces everything it touched until more than half of the surviving Zerg were dead and the rest were crippled. The destroyers fell back into line and fired off more nukes, finishing off the second attack force. The battle hadn't lasted that long but it weakened the Swarm and might possibly buy the Admiral more time. The Commodore sighed and sank into his seat. Something told him he wouldn't survive the next assault.
Samantha was looking into a small pressurized chamber that held Admiral Stukov, or what used to be him. The operation had gone off without a hitch and was successful. Now they just had to see if it worked. Restraints kept him from moving as a security precaution and several Marines were simply waiting for a chance to put some bullets into the infested Terran. Slowly he became conscious.
"Admiral Stukov, can you hear me?" Samantha asked.
Stukov blinked a few times but didn't turn his head. However, he managed to speak, his voice deepened and with the quality of an infested human.
"Who are you?"
"I'm Commander Samantha Hardy," she answered, "My men found you on the Norad III and brought you here."
"Where is Admiral DuGalle?" Stukov asked.
"He's dead. Most of the UED fleet is heading back to Earth and the rest are with me."
"Why?"
"Kerrigan defeated the UED," Sarah informed him. "Right now she's in pursuit. My husband's currently the acting-admiral."
Stukov took a deep, labored breath before continuing to speak.
"What has happened since Duran shot me?"
"You remember?"
"Of course. What has happened?"
"The UED succeeded in taking control of the Overmind with the assistance of the Psi Disruptor, but Kerrigan tricked Mengsk, Admiral Raynor, and Fenix into helping her destroy it. She then retook Korhal and forced the Dark Templars to kill the Overmind for her. After that there was a combined effort by the UED, the Terran Dominion, and the Protoss to kill her, but she defeated all three of them."
"You said your husband is the acting-admiral," said Stukov. "Who is your husband and where is he?"
"My husband is James Kris and he's currently leading the UED fleet back to report what happened. It is my belief that he will be attempting to rally Earth and try to defeat the Swarm in the Sol System."
"Captain Kris. Good man." Stukov closed his eyes. "But what am I?"
"Admiral Stukov, don't you remember who you are?" Samantha asked.
"My name is Alexei Stukov, I was the vice-admiral of the UED expeditionary fleet under Fleet Admiral Gerard DuGalle. I am fully aware of who I am. But what am I?"
Samantha hesitated, but finally told him. "You've been infested, Admiral. We don't know how as you were reported dead after Duran shot you, but somehow the Zerg got hold of your body."
"Duran," Stukov spat. "Traitorous scum. I'm infested? Then why do I still think as a human?"
"For some reason your brain is naturally rejecting the neural impulses from the infested regions," Samantha explained. "Also, we removed some of the infested portions of your brain. Your body is only twenty percent Zerg. For some reason the infestation has stopped there and has been integrated into your body."
"Where are we?" Stukov asked.
"We're on Tarsonis."
Stukov's eyes went wide as if there was something horribly wrong.
"No, we can't be here! We have to get out of here!"
"Admiral, calm down! What's wrong!"
"Zerg, there's Zerg on Tarsonis! At a lab, a genetics lab on the main continent. Duran! It was his lab! We have to get out of here!"
"Admiral, we found the lab and are cleansing it even as we speak. Everything is going to be okay."
"You don't understand!" Stukov screamed. "They're different! They're stronger!"
"Admiral, calm down and talk to me! What is the problem!"
Stukov was breathing at a rapid rate and seemed to start convulsing when he suddenly calmed down.
"Gene-splicing experiment on Braxis. Protoss, Zerg genetic splicing. Duran, conducted, them. These Zerg, have, Protoss DNA."
He seemed to collapse from exhaustion and Samantha was about to walk away when he spoke again.
"They, can produce psionic shields. Stronger, smarter, faster. Don't, know how much, firepower is needed to, kill them."
"Thank you for your help Admiral," said Samantha. "Get some rest. We'll take care of the Zerg."
Samantha turned away again but Stukov had one last thing to say.
"Your, husband, he's a good, man."
"That he is."
She left the room and placed a call to Jackson. His face appeared on the screen.
"What is it Sam?"
"We have a problem," she said. "According to Admiral Stukov, these Zerg are different. Apparently Duran ran some kind of gene-splicing project on Braxis and he's used those techniques to create Zergs with Protoss DNA. They can produce psionic shields and are stronger, faster, and smarter because of it too."
"Oh hell. Okay, I'm going to send in more troops. What'll it take to kill them?"
"Stukov doesn't know, but we should make sure no Zerg gets out of that area alive."
"Of course. And Sam, you sure we can trust him?"
"He seems sane right now," she answered. "For now, yes. But once he becomes unstable, we might have to kill him."
"Alright. Anything else?"
"Not at the moment. I need to go to Veronica now. She gets rather fussy if I'm away for too long."
The doors closed behind her
"So Artanis, what did the humans say?"
"They are willing to help us," Artanis reported to the council.
"Good," said Balthazar. "Mojo, you will command the escort for our battle fleet. With your forces, you are to secure a landing area for our army."
"Yes Executor."
"Artanis, once Mojo has brought our troops in, you will assume operational command. You are to destroy the Terran defenses, but try to keep their primary structures intact. We will need to access their databanks to find out what they were up to. The Alliance might also appreciate some more hardware."
"Yes Executor."
"Remember the crimes that Duran has committed against our race," Balthazar continued. "He was the one that kidnapped Raszagal and corrupted her, and he is the one that created this Hybrid. It is time we paid him back in full."
The Protoss council members stood and bowed before exiting. Balthazar placed a hand on Artanis' shoulder and stopped him. The two waited for all the other warriors to leave.
"Artanis. You have spent some time looking over the genetic archive the Xel'Naga left in their temple, have you not?"
Artanis nodded. "Yes. I was hoping perhaps they left some information regarding the Zerg, or at least provide us with a clue as to what the Zerg's weaknesses are."
"Keep your friends close and your enemies closer," Balthazar muttered. "That is apparently an old Terran saying."
"It shows surprising insight."
"Indeed." Balthazar sighed and looked around the chamber. "We were once the most powerful race in this region of space, and now we are forced to avoid combat against our greatest enemy. The Zerg truly are a marvel. And now, we learn that a race that perhaps combines the strengths of the Protoss and Zerg will awaken soon. It is enough to give even me nightmares."
"We have overcome much together, Executor. I am sure we confident overcome this new threat as well," Artanis said defiantly.
Balthazar nodded. "Good. Good. You still have that fire young warriors possess. I think it is time I shared something of great concern with you. I myself have been studying the archives of the Xel'Naga and I have found something that could very well be our salvation."
"And what would that be?" Artanis asked.
With a gesture, Balthazar turned and stood up straighter. "The Xel'Naga were not always researchers, scientists that strove to create the most perfect being. In fact, there was a time when they used their power and technology to conquer an empire stretching galaxies, not just systems. Why they chose this galaxy for their Grand Experiment is beyond our understanding, but in the end is a blessing to us. We understand very little of their technologies even though we were born from them, even though we know how to use the source of their power."
"The Khaydarin Crystals," said Artanis.
"Yes. That was the source of their power. In the archives, I have run across several references to a great weapon. A ship, actually. It is supposed to be the most powerful vessel ever built by the Xel'Naga, so large and powerful that nothing could withstand it. By itself, it could maintain an entire civilization."
Artanis frowned. "Are you sure this isn't simply another reference to the Worldships?"
Balthazar shook his head. "Hardly. The Worldships were never designed for war. They were used to transport the entire Xel'Naga race from one place to another in their Grand Experiment. It is my belief, that this weapon will be the final key in destroying the Zerg."
"But where is this vessel located?" Artanis asked.
"That is what we must find out," said Balthazar. "If only Zeratul were here. Then I could have him search for it."
"Why don't I go?" Artanis asked.
Balthazar shook his head. "No. I need a Dark Templar to carry out this task."
"Then perhaps the new Dark Templar Praetor," Artanis suggested.
With another shake of his head, Balthazar looked at his friend.
"Artanis, you do not understand something regarding this ship. I require someone I fully trust, but is also a Dark Templar. It will take a Dark Templar to navigate the dangers that stand in the way before they can find the ship. I do not mean to cast doubt upon our own brethren, but at times like this one must be careful."
"Surely there is someone you trust to take care of this."
Balthazar considered the words and nodded. "I believe there is. However, I will require your wisdom in making this choice as well."
"As you wish, Executor."
Artanis bowed and the two walked out of the conference chamber.
The main audience chamber of the Terran Dominion held Mengsk's elite guards, the Emperor himself, and his current petitioner. Or perhaps ally.
"Samir Duran. What an unexpected surprise it is to see you."
"Emperor Mengsk. As long as it isn't unpleasant, surprises are always good. How have you been doing?"
"Well enough. What brings you to Korhal to meet with a man you've publicly denounced as a terrorist?" Mengsk asked.
"I have a proposition for you," Duran answered, his voice deepening and gaining a grating quality. "As you are well aware of, I control a rather large force of soldiers on Braxis, along with an entire brood. You have something I want and I can supply you with a powerful fighting force."
Mengsk leaned forward with a dangerous glint in his eye. "And why should I even let you live? I could kill you right here, right now."
Duran smiled and stared back at the Emperor. "You could, but then my entire brood will descend upon Korhal and you'd be hard pressed to defeat them all. Some will survive and start spreading, and before you know it Korhal will be another Zerg world."
"Hmm. A valid point. Tell me, what is it that you want?"
"The plans for the psi emitter and resources."
"The psi emitter? Why would you be interested in that?"
"I have my reasons," Duran replied. "Do we have a deal?"
"What kind of resources will you need?" Mengsk pressed.
"I will require resources to support my own troops and my brood, which shouldn't be too hard for you to come by. Also, I have several projects that I am running that I will need supplies for. And I will require that you do not interfere with what I am doing on Braxis."
"And what would you be doing on Braxis?"
"Emperor Mengsk, I am offering you the power to defeat your enemies," said Duran. "Don't annoy me so much that I walk away."
Mengsk himself was getting slightly annoyed at Duran's attitude but realized that he would indeed be a powerful ally. To have an entire Zerg brood at his control? He could then crush the pathetic Alliance and keep control over his own subjects. And if he had to, he'd deal with Duran later.
"Very well Lieutenant Duran. You have a deal."
Duran handed Mengsk a data pad.
"This specifies the resources that I will need by the end of the week," said Duran. "As of now, my Terran military forces are at your command. Once I receive the resources, I will use my brood to strike out at one of your enemies."
"Good. Very good. When you receive the resources, this is your first target."
Mengsk wrote something on the data pad and handed it back to Duran. The infested Ghost raised an eyebrow.
"I had expected Tarsonis or Shakuras, but this is a rather interesting choice. However, I believe I understand why you would choose this."
"I want them removed," said Mengsk. "This will provide better stability for me and enough time for me to take care of certain traitorous elements here."
"Very well, Emperor Mengsk. I will strike at Mar Sara, and at Alpha Squadron. Once the supplies have been delivered."
Mengsk nodded in agreement and Duran walked out of the room. After he disappeared the Emperor called in an attendant and handed the person the data pad.
"Deliver the specified supplies and resources on this data pad to Braxis."
"Braxis? But sir-"
"Do it!"
"Y-yes sir."
The attendant ran out of the room and into the corridors. He quickly delivered the orders to the appropriate party but immediately left to palace and went to a bar afterwards. Inside one of the bartenders saw him and waved him to the back.
"The Emperor is sending supplies to Braxis," the attendant blurted out.
"Braxis? Isn't that where pirate militias and a Zerg force is located?" the bartender asked.
The attendant nodded. "It's possible he's made an alliance of some sort of deal with them. The Dominion's forces have been rather depleted and he would need more troops."
"Very well," said the bartender. "I'll pass it along."
After ordering a quick drink the attendant hurried back to Mengsk's palace. He still had a cover to maintain.
Alpha Squadron had reoccupied Mar Sara after the Zerg had abandoned the planet after the Protoss glassed it. Currently there was a massive military presence as Alpha Squadron had slowly been built back up. The death of Edmund Duke had simply allowed the leaders of Alpha Squadron start looking at newer ways of doing things. And the current leader of Alpha Squadron, General Henry Orion, was certainly glad that he had a new defensive network set up. There were currently five major defensive platforms in orbit of Chau Sara and each had an Ion Cannon. On the surface he had built twenty more Cannons to cover the entire planet but would need more for a proper network. However, resources were tight and he had many projects running.
One final piece of advanced technology was a massive shipyard being built. Using the asteroids in the Sara System, they had finished construction of the defensive platforms as well as three new battlecruisers. Like the Alliance, General Orion knew the importance of having a full shipyard. Thus, he ordered the construction of a state-of-the-art shipyard to bolster his production capabilities. And even with the Zerg Cerebrate on Chau Sara, Alpha Squadron wasn't about to run. One day, they would retake their original headquarters and establish another Terran stronghold.
The soldiers were also slightly different. They were more committed to this new Alpha Squadron and were more willing to give their lives to defend the ideals of their leaders. Currently there had been a great deal of restlessness within the ranks of the high command and there was a growing faction of colonels and majors that felt that Alpha Squadron should no longer support Emperor Mengsk. He had blundered many times and right now the Terran Dominion was rather unstable. However, there was another faction that believed that Alpha Squadron would be considered nothing more than backstabbing traitors forever if they turned coat again.
So far General Orion hadn't showed his hand, but he had already displayed discontent with Mengsk and frustration at the Terran Dominion. If he formally made a decision to split from the Dominion, most of the staff officers and soldiers would follow him.
"General Orion, we received an intelligence report from one of our agents."
Henry had been talking with his senior staff officers when the man came in. He gave Henry a data pad and stood at his side waiting for a reaction. Scrolling down the message quickly, Henry reviewed the most important parts. There didn't seem to be much of importance except something was nagging at him.
"Colonel Walker, what do we have on Braxis?" Henry asked.
"It's currently occupied by a large force of renegade Terran troops," Walker began. "They're not really well equipped in the air but have a sizeable ground force. Something happen?"
Henry gave the datapad back to the officer and he walked out. He then turned to his other officers.
"Emperor Mengsk just decided to send a great deal of supplies to Braxis and I assume it is to help the renegade Terrans there."
One of the officers scoffed. "When did he care about other Terrans? They probably signed a deal with him because of the Zergs."
Walker nodded. "There is also an entire Zerg brood occupying much of the planet. However, they seem to be leaving the Terran bases alone, though we don't know why."
"Kind of reminds me of Alan Schezar," Henry muttered.
A few of the officers grew concerned with that comment.
"You don't seriously believe another Terran has learned how to control the Zerg," Magellan asked.
Henry regarded the science officer. He was a good friend and had stayed with Henry even after they had defeated Schezar on Aiur. It was always wise to consider his advice.
"Let's hope this isn't the case," said Henry. "We had a hell of a time chasing Schezar across the sector all the way to Aiur. I heard the Protoss later killed him."
"And his entire pirate organization decided to join the Alliance, though they aren't stupid enough to mess with the Zerg," said Walker. "Should we be concerned about this move?"
Henry shook his head. "Mengsk is just trying to replenish the Dominion's forces. We're actually the only other Squadron in any shape to fight. His Elite Guards are still pretty strong though."
"Mengsk can't afford to lose us," said a colonel. "We control half of his troops and he knows it."
"True enough," said Henry. "All right, what else is there?"
"Norad III was lost in an ambush of some sort," said Walker. "We don't know much, but the captain's distress signal said something about a Protoss Arbiter and being jumped by like three battlecruisers."
Henry shrugged. "Norad III is a bad loss, but as long as it wasn't destroyed we Terrans didn't grow any weaker."
"What makes you think it wasn't destroyed?" a colonel asked.
"Cause there was no I'm dead signal from it. I'm pretty sure it was captured, most likely by the Alliance. They're the only ones with the resources and motive to pull it off."
"What about the Combine?"
Magellan shook his head. "No motive. They do a lot of business with Mengsk and I doubt the Combine really wants to pick a fight right now."
"We'll see," said Henry. "But for now, go to Alert Status 2. I want to be ready to fight at a moment's notice."
The other officers nodded before Henry left the room. Something in him told him they hadn't seen the last of Mengsk's treachery.
Duran watched as the freighters docked and unloaded all of the supplies. Finally the biotech laboratories would return to full operations. The raid that Zeratul had launched disrupted his operations more than he cared to admit. His primary objective was to develop a new warrior breed using the Protoss and Zerg race to serve his masters once they awakened. So far, he'd had limited success. It was a pity that Stukov had escaped before he could finish with him though. Stukov had held great promise. He would have served the masters well.
The most successful of Duran's experiments involved Hunter Killers that had been implanted with Protoss genes. These made the creatures far more intelligent and powerful, also giving them the ability to project psi shields, though they were rather weak compared to the ones the Protoss themselves generated, even with their machines. However, they had been lost on Tarsonis so Duran had to restart the project. The only good news was that all of the data from the advanced Hunter Killers survived. The new batch would be born in a day and then he'd field test them against Alpha Squadron.
The newest of Duran's experiments were far more powerful than their predecessors. These new Hunter Killers had stronger shields, could move faster, and fired toxic spines. However, there was another experiment that Duran wanted to run but didn't have the resources. If he could capture a Ghost, he'd have all that he'd need.
"Lieutenant Duran."
Duran turned and looked at the Terran soldier standing before him.
"The unloading has been completed."
"Good. Begin final construction stages of the biotech lab. I want no mistakes."
"Yes sir."
Duran waved the soldier off. He had other matters to attend to. A dropship appeared and he boarded. Though the pilot was nervous about flying him to a Zerg base, he really didn't have much of a choice. The dropship landed and Duran walked off. The pilot lifted off immediately, glad to be out of that area. Duran walked amongst the Zerg units, ignoring most of them. He stopped before a large field of eggs. Drones wandered through the field, checking upon the eggs to make sure nothing was wrong. These eggs were beyond value. However, it took them too long to mature. There was no solution to that. Even though he had the right technology it was extremely difficult to use it on these creatures. They were simply too powerful to clone and thus the only thing left was accelerated growth.
Something inside one of the eggs started growling. Duran smiled. They would hatch soon. Everything was going according to plan.
Samantha shook hands with Lt. Commander Gregory Reikson. The man was rather imposing and confident. Raynor didn't know if he was imagining it, but Reikson looked larger than he did before. Or maybe the video screen hadn't done him proper justice. He then took his designated seat and remained quiet. Raynor then informed him what was going on.
"We've been made an offer by the Protoss," he began, "to participate in a massive attack against Duran on Braxis. They've asked us to launch a diversionary attack."
"And you want me to participate," said Reikson.
"Not really," said Sarah. "We're just telling you what the Protoss are planning. However, what we plan to do is extract something we need on Aiur."
"You're joking," Reikson said with a shake of his head. "Aiur is off limits for a reason. The Zerg have a firm foothold on the planet and any attempt to attack them would be suicidal. I'm pretty sure your Protoss buddies also told you that."
"Actually, they don't know we're going to do this."
Reikson looked at them with a questioning stare.
"The Protoss probably would be pissed at us if they found out what we were going after, but we have no choice," said Sarah. "As things stand, we need freighters. I'm pretty sure you have some."
"Freighters aren't a problem," Reikson said after a few seconds. "However, I don't have enough weapons to outfit an attack force. We're still stockpiling ammunition and such."
"That is of no concern," said Jackson. "My men are trained for covert operations and such."
"What exactly are you going after?" Reikson asked them.
"Let's just say it's something that will help us greatly in our war against the Zerg," said Sarah. "Don't take this the wrong way. We will tell you what it is after the ships return safely. However, for now, the less you know, the safer you are."
"I see. Is it really that dangerous?"
All of them nodded.
"Very well then. I'll accept that for now. As a show of good faith, I shall supply you with freighters and even some escorts. Now, shall we go about seeing how I am to integrate my forces into this Alliance?"
End of Chapter 3
Z98