A Journey of the Forgotten

by Singh

When your course is unclear, and your fate uncertain...the most incredible journeys can come to life, with the greatest amount of risks. But not all risky journeys are incredible...and some remain forgotten in time...until now.

14. Chapter 8: The Tragedy of Peace

Chapter 8

The Tragedy of Peace

Although the canyon's ice-cold winds were no longer; the blanket of fog remained; fighting a loosing battle and refusing to give way to the rising temperature of the air around it. It would probably take days - if not weeks - for the Fog to lift fully, but to Bosch it mattered little; for they had little time to spend here.

Standing stiffly at attention, he no longer shook or shivered in the cold - at this temperature, his uniform's coat was more than enough to keep him warm. Although his arm was still in a sling and that side of the coat hung loosely around his shoulder, his efforts to try and look at least respectable enough seemed to have succeeded. Looking out of the corner of his eye, he could see that both Venson and Raynold were standing equally still and at attention. To the side of each was a crude shovel, carefully laid to rest on the ground. To Bosch's right, he could just make out at the boundary of the fog the outlines of the two graves that had been dug there earlier. It was a foreboding sight, one that made Bosch uncomfortable. Till now, he had only performed ceremonies in space, and had only done this on the ground once before, and only then it had been for-

No.

He pushed aside the memory before it affected him too much. The past was the past, and he needed to focus on what needed to be done here and now. He instead focused his mind on the questions that had been perplexing him since his trip to the control centre...the most important and urgent one now was the nature of the Vasudans.

On Deneb and Altair, Bosch had picked up hints and outlying references in the Ancient's writings and records to a species resembling that of the Vasudans, and of some of the acts that they had committed. But none of that data, that evidence was concrete or solid in any way, and the mystery had stayed firmly in the realm of speculation and extrapolation of the data. Worst was that during his active search for more clues to the puzzle, he had been stopped at nearly every turn by the Vasudans themselves...first, on Deneb and then on Altair itself. Each attempt to gather information, to uncover the truth was thwarted and subverted secretly by the Vasudans. Few others in the fleet saw it; saw their manipulations and the veil in which they had covered Terran Command.

It was then that Bosch knew that he would never get the answers while remaining in the GTVA...he had needed a distraction, something with which to throw the attention off him. The very basic idea and form of the Neo Terra Front had come about then. In fact, if it were not for one of the personnel that he was now paying respects to, the NTF would have never come about in the first place. It had served its purpose to enable a distraction and allow the journey into the wreckage on the surface of Deneb, providing key information data on the Shivans.

Remembering the surface of Deneb, Bosch shuddered. What he had seen there...the memories of the battle, the devastation were terrible; if not downright frightening. The area he had gone to in particular was the planet's largest desert...and the largest single graveyard of the first Great War with the Shivans. A massive battle with the Lucifer had taken place above the planet in an attempt to hold the line, but sadly, it had failed, resulting in massive losses. The wrecks of many ships still hung above the planet, orbiting for close to forever in a slow yet definite spiral towards the planet. The most prominent had been the large Orion destroyer; sitting silently in space, its dark hull preserving in death none of the prestige and glory that accompanied it in its birth. The normally steady and well-made armor plates were mostly torn apart, most noticeably in the rear near the engines, just above the fighter bay, where a massive hole extended right through the Destroyer, revealing the sun on the far side. If one looked carefully enough, they could see seared-off edges of decks, living quarters, the engineering bay and even the remains of docked fighters inside of it - such was the power of the Lucifer's flux cannon.

As desolate as the scene was in space, one would truly know the great costs of the war on the ground of the planet below. The dunes of its largest deserts were not longer created by sand or rocks, but by the scattered fuselages and hulls of the many fighters, bombers and even cruisers that had crashed into the planet. However, it was what surrounded these that were not only disturbing, but undeniably tragic as well. Sticking out between the piles of metal debris and hull bits were the white bones and remains of the pilots that once flew these once-majestic craft across the vast expanse of space. The desert did not play any discrimination; consuming both veteran and rookie pilot alike; regardless of gender or species. Buried in the desert alongside the remnants of the Great War, was a relic of something that came after; a relic that was somewhat placed there by Bosch himself. Bosch had been partially responsible for the legacy behind by the GTI. It was upon this grave, this legacy that had held the key to his ultimate creation, the very reason that he was here. It was there that was the birth grounds for ETAK.

But still; the motives of the Vasudans was now questionable, at best. They had clearly double-crossed the Ancients, but could it just have been the quest for freedom? Were they truly united as the alliance thought? Or did the Vasudans have a much deeper and darker secret than thought before? They had tried to stop him for a reason, and it was imperative that they find that reason as soon as possible.

His train of thought stopped however, as a disturbance appeared at the edge of the fog around them. Looking carefully, he watched as, as if in slow motion, the first few of the group slowly break through the dense fog. Gibson was in the lead, marching forwards slowly. The body was wrapped heavily in an NTF flag, and was located in a make-shift harness of sorts that the men carried. On either side of the body, they held up their side of the harness with one arm, while swinging the other as the entire group moved to a slow, steady march. There were a total of 4 men carrying the body. Two at the front to either side, with two more carrying the legs just a step or two behind them. Their training did not betray them here; for the entire group moved in perfect unison, keeping the exact same pace as Gibson.

The three near the grave stiffened; if it were possible to stand even more still than they already were, they just managed it. Studying the cloth, Bosch realized that this was Ramayan's body.

Ramayan...rest in peace, old friend. Bosch thought to himself.

Although not one his best friends, Ramayan was definitely one of Bosch's oldest. Senior to Bosch by nearly half a year, he was equally as old and both men shared in this connection over many a cup of coffee, especially when the discussion turned to the present day's youth. Bosch nearly smiled, remembering the memories - upon retrospect, they both had turned into the very old Geezers that Bosch used to dislike during his own youth. Sitting and chatting away, complaining about the modern-day teenager's bad habits and recklessness. Ramayan was also the only exo-biologist in the entire group; and knew the most about Shivan anatomy, biology and physiology than anyone else, with his knowledge being on par - if not greater - than Bosch's himself. He too shared Bosch's curiosity and fascination about the Shivans, their origins and motives. It was thanks to Ramayan that they had jury-rigged the ETAK device after vital parts for it on the NTT Sunder had been intercepted by GTVA spies.

Bosch owed a lot to him that was for sure. Without his continued support and help, the NTF, ETAK, Bosch's own research...none of it would have come about had he not met Ramayan six years ago. Although it was a long time ago, Bosch could still remember it as if it was yesterday.

Flashback

"First, of all, Captain Bosch, I must congratulate you."

Bosch blinked and looked somewhat surprise at the old man sitting at the centre of the table. A rather aged and small figure, Admiral Gerald was very imposing nevertheless. His normally fierce expression more than made up for any thoughts a person would have about the man's capabilities, or his age for that matter. Seated next to him was Commodore Sheila, the academy's chief instructor, and Lt. Cordova, his own instructor. Both were frowning, hands on the desk and leaning in to listen to what the Admiral had to say. The Admiral himself was looking straight at Bosch, whom was desperately looking for a way to avoid direct eye contact, but was unable to find much alternatives. The Admiral's tone had been low and somewhat muted. This could most likely either become very bad, or become extremely bad from the looks of it.

"What for, Sir?" Bosch asked, his tone calm, not betraying the surprise at the Admiral's words, or his own fear at the moment.

The Admiral glanced down at the report and looked back up. He raised his right hand up, holding a piece of paper in it. Bosch could almost hear the growl of anger as the Admiral's features changed to one of near-rage.

"Well, for starters, I have to congratulate you for royally pissing me off by having an Incident report on my desk this morning, giving me the worst possible way to start it off."

Just as quickly as it came, the expression vanished as the Admiral continued.

"And then, after reading the report, I must also congratulate on achieving two more things. Do you know what these are?" He asked, looking directly at Bosch.

Bosch simply shook his head.

"Well, the first one is quite noteworthy. I must congratulate you for being the first pilot in the entire history of this Academy - which, might I remind you, is over a hundred years old - who has not only thought of completing the basic runner's course in such a unique, creative - and dare I say it - fashionable way, but attempted it as well. You may consider yourself proud for displaying such an act of intelligence and conceptual thinking to come up with such a plan...not to mention the sheer and utter stupidity when it came down to the decision of executing it."

The Admiral paused, and then, oddly, he smiled. The course he was referring to was one that any new pilot had to go through to qualify for active duty. It simply consisted of going through a series of checkpoints, all based around an Arcadia installation and it's docked Ganymede construction bays. There were several variants of the course depending on the type of ship that the pilot was qualifying for, and over the years many had tried to use shortcuts to get through with faster and faster times. In this particular case though, the problem had to be the Ganymede rings.

"The second thing I have to congratulate you for is pretty much giving not only me, but the entire academy one hell of a big laugh this morning, as well as giving us a winner for this year's 'Academy Clown' award."

Bosch simply stared at the Admiral Blankly, his face featureless and expressionless. He had expected everything from extra duties to the worst case - a demotion in rank.

The Admiral cut off his thoughts, continuing.

"I swear to all that is holy, to this day, I have never seen a pilot moronic enough (and trust me, I've seen the worst) to ever manage to think that an Ursa bomber can squeeze inside the gap of those Ganymede rings and that it is a viable shortcut."

Bosch nearly groaned, remembering it almost perfectly. The rings in question here were right next to each other, leaving a small gap in-between. Pilots normally had to rush to the waypoint on the other side of these rings and then back again before heading for the finish line. Smaller craft like the Perseus, or the Horus would go straight through the gap...

Bosch regained his composure though and looked the Admiral right in the eye. He spoke up, barely containing the anger, the embarrassment.

"Sir, respectfully speaking, if you had given me a proper working bomber that didn't stop half-way through the damn course, I probably would have made it through - "

The Admiral cut him off.

"Being in the Great War, and the rebellion afterwards, you of all people should know when to rely on your equipment, and when not to." He looked back down, and then back at Bosch. The intent in his look was clear; this meeting was over. Bosch tried to say something, but again the Admiral cut him off, effectively sealing his fate.

"Captain Bosch, although this board of inquiry has pertained that you are indirectly responsible for the damage to the docking ring as well as Bomber craft No. U-010-945, no charges will be filed against you, as some of the blame falls on the equipment as well. As such, this board hereby fines you 50 of your salary, for a consecutive period of 4 months. Your request to return to active fighter combat service has also been denied for a period of five years, at which time it will be pending approval depending on your performance once you take these courses again."

Bosch was shocked. In a sense, he had expected far worse, but this...? He had spent nearly four months going through all the grueling courses just to get back into active service; and now it had all gone for waste. He didn't mind getting a demotion if required, but to get back into a fighter or bomber again would have been well worth the price - hell, if they at least cleared him to command a small cruiser or corvette...anything but the desk job they had thrown to him.

He started to speak up, but, again, the Admiral cut him off. This time, his expression was a shade darker. Bosch saw it and decided it would be better off to simply keep his mouth shut. The Admiral looked him in the eye. Bosch met the gaze, surprised to find a bit of understanding in there.

"Just so you know, if it were me, I'd demote you down two ranks and throw you into the command of a Zephyr somewhere - and I know that's what you would prefer to your desk job now. But Rear Admiral Nekh'ber has a different idea it seems."

He picked up a small notepad from his desk, holding it out to Bosch, indicating for him to take it. Bosch took a step forwards and took it. Looking at it, he read the instructions on the pad and frowned. Stepping back, Bosch nodded. The Admiral nodded as well before dismissing him with a wave of his hand. Bosch saluted crisply and walked out in as controlled a manner as he would. As tempting as it was to simply storm out of the room, doing so would accomplish little right now.

The darkness of space outside the window gave little comfort to Bosch as he stared on at the scene beyond it. But then, he thought to himself; whenever he needed it the most, nothing would give him relief; no matter how much he begged or asked for it. This was no exception to that.

He was seated at the back of the transport, in the last of seven rows. Each row was split in the middle, with each side being capable of accommodating two people. Just a few feet from the front row was a door leading to the primary airlock and the exit of the Elysium Transport. The walking space between both sets of rows led to a small toilet embedded inside the wall behind them.

Looking away from the window, Bosch considered the situation. Then he glanced back at the pad in his hand. The message Admiral Gerald had given him on the pad had been cryptic, to say the least. Picking it up, he read through it again.

"Your orders are simple, CPT Bosch. Rear Admiral Nekh'ber placed a request for you to work down at Ribos shipyards on some project they are developing there, but from the looks of it, that's not the only reason he wants you there. You're supposed to hold two appointments at the installation.

The first role is as the Officer-in-charge of one of the construction projects going on down there. I don't know what it is exactly, but looks like a new Frigate class or such – it's called the Iceni project. You're to oversee and bring the project to completion, but Commodore Goldridge – she's in charge of the shipyards itself and the force around it - will brief you on it once you get there.

The second role is as a consultant to another project going on down there. It's absolutely top-secret – so secret that they won't even tell me about it, but from what I've heard, it's something to do with your background fighting the GTI and your subsequent research on their technology.

Normally, I'd say good luck with your future endeavors, but after the amount of trouble and ruckus you've managed to cause us back here in the academy, the only thing I have to say is: don't come back. You're flying days went out a long time ago after you injured yourself, and there is no way you're capable of flying a bomber without being a liability, Bosch. Leave it to rest, and use this posting as an opportunity to do something different – the GTVA are looking for a few good ship captains. Who knows? If you do well enough with the Iceni project, they may just give you command of the Frigate,.

That is all. Report to transport Lambda 2 in two hours with all your belongings. It's headed towards Ribos and should reach there in around a day or two, after which you'll be deployed on an Elysium transport just outside the system. The transport will then take you to the station itself while under GTVI escort.

Yours Sincerely,

Admiral Gerald"

Putting it back down, Bosch reminded himself that reading through it changed little about his current situation. Instead, he looked back outside the window.

Hanging outside the window against the rather impressive backdrop of nebulae that made up the Ribos system was the installation he was going to. It didn't have an actual name – none of the GTVI installations ever did. Its official designation was simply GTVI-I-004/RBS/SHY. Most people simply called it the Ribos Shipyards however.

It was long, and like most Arcadia class stations, was asymmetrical in its docking capacity. Its port was merely a large, flat pad that extended for around a hundred meters or so, and was significantly wide. It held enough spaces for fighters to launch and land simultaneously as well as room for smaller transports to dock. The pad was attached to a wide central body, the most notable feature of which was the large hole right in its centre. The inside was brightly lit, allowing cursory examination and total repair of any ship or fighter that had been placed there. Currently, it was empty.

The starboard side of the installation was the complete opposite in terms of dimensions. It was short and thick, and was actually two 'plates' paired together to make a shape similar to a primitive radiator. A small launch bay was located in the middle, and this was where the transport was now headed. Bosch simply watched as the transport turned, taking the installation out of view and instead once again revealing the backdrop of nebulae that filled the space around him. The beauty of the scene was only marred by a small, long Aeolus class cruiser which, in it's own right, was looking just as good as the scene itself.

Bosch sighed and looked back at the pad in his hand. Questions ran through his mind unabated. Why had Admiral Nekh'ber asked him specifically to be posted down here? The accident...had it gone so far, and if so, shouldn't it have ruined his potential candidacy to this project, as opposed to have promoted it to the point where he had been appointed to it? No, something else was at play here, and he more than suspected it to be related to the secondary appointment he was supposed to hold.

Bosch frowned. The admiral had said that the second appointment was related to his history with the GTI, as well as his research on them. This was extremely odd, since Bosch's own research over the past few years had been private and unofficial. He had only done some small research, not unlike a few dozen others that were involved with the assault on the GTI and its flagship destroyer, the Hades. Hell, after the incident, the GTVA mostly classified whatever they found. They left nothing but scraps for the rest of them...well, maybe the rest except for Bosch.

Bosch's own research specialized not in the GTI's Technology or their organization, but of what they knew about the Shivans along with research on the Ancients, and their connections to the Shivans. He had been involved towards the end of the Great War before that, flying alongside other rookie pilots in the cleaning up of the Shivan forces after the destruction of the Lucifer Super destroyer. Those few months had been the most harrowing in his life; even though the Shivan fleet had been beheaded, the main body continued to fight fiercely. Although to him and his squad mates it seemed like they were fighting the toughest enemies around, they knew from the stories told by the other vets that it was nothing compared to the power of the Shivans barely weeks prior.

It was from there his curiosity of the Shivan nature had sprouted. Untouched by witnessing first-hand the horror they had created, Bosch had been in a rather unique position back then. He had come late enough to avoid being de-sensitized and as uncaring as most of the Veterans that he saw (not that he could blame them), and yet he wasn't too late to avoid having firsthand experience and actually witnessing the power of the Shivans. Only he had been in that unique position, to ask the question of why.

Everyone else wondered how their technology worked, how their social structure was like. Few tried to comprehend the rather signification question; Why did the Shivans attack them? Why did the Lucifer only target the home worlds, leaving most of the other planets intact? And most importantly, why did the Shivans attack Humanity and the Vasudans at all? Many had theorized what the Ancients had; that humanity's trespassing of subspace had triggered a chain of events leading to their arrival, to their presence. But to Bosch, it seemed...too easy, too convenient. If they had come because Humanity had trespassed subspace, why did they not come sooner? Humanity had been using it for years, with significant activity going within many tunnels that ended upon the commencement of the Terran-Vasudan war...did the Shivans actually stumble onto them? And if so...he had wondered then, as he did now...where was an entire battle fleet - capable of destroying worlds upon worlds – headed to? What calamity, what force required such a massive fleet, such massive resources...and most importantly, were there more out there?

The GTI rebellion and witnessing the successful implementation of Shivan technology simply encouraged him further. After all, if the GTI could figure out enough about the Shivans and their nature to make use of it so effectively, what was stopping him? And so he had embarked upon what many of his friends called a lunatic quest. He had been determined to find out why, to find out what hidden truth could have justified so much death, so much bloodshed. There had to be a reason...and Bosch would find it, he was sure of that.

And now, apparently, he had a better chance than before. Truthfully, the potential to participate in any research connected to the GTI...it was exhilarating, to say the least.

Bosch looked up, smiling to himself slightly. Perhaps, failing the test might not have been such a bad thing after all.

Glancing back outside the window, Bosch realized that he had spent a lot of time thinking. The expanse of space had been replaced with the bright interior of the Arcadia's rather large fighter bay. The transport had just entered, and was now proceeding to one of the docking areas where it would land and offload the crew. The docking areas had multiple levels, depending on the type of craft. Most of the Hercules class fighters were all stationed on the upper levels, where they held up by large metallic claws and didn't need to be precariously balanced on the spike at the bottom. Directly beneath them in the middle, suspended parallel to the wall were several Myrmidon fighters. Wide and somewhat large, these fighters formed the core of most GTVA squadrons these days.

Brand-new and just off the shelf, the smooth and rounded-off design of the Myrmidons significantly outperformed the Hercules in areas of space superiority and peace-keeping. However, Bosch, like most other pilots, knew that the boxish old Hercules would never go out of date due to the sheer firepower they could dish out and the beating they could take. The Great War had been won on the backs of the Hercules, and from the looks of it any successor to the design would most likely fall far short when it came to such potential.

A minute later, the transport shuddered to a stop. Bosch sighed and stood up slowly. He looked over the top of the seat in front of him. On the seat was a small, black duffel bag with yellow outlines and a grey zip. Bosch picked it up and threw the pad inside before moving towards the main entrance.

As he approached it, the door opened automatically, revealing a short junction and a stairwell. At the other end of the junction was a door leading to the cockpit of the craft, while the stairwell spiraled downwards mostly into darkness, if not for the flickering ceiling lights. Railings lined either side of the stairwell, providing some sort of guidance and leverage to counter the rather steep angle.

Holding onto the railing with his left hand, Bosch began the slow descent to the bottom of the transport. Along the way, he passed two more floors, both empty, before finally reaching the bottom. At the end of the stairwell was another junction. To his left were more passenger areas, directly ahead was the exit to the dock from where marines would board disabled warships and such, while to the right was the airlock from which he would exit onto the installation. He glanced to both sides for a second, pausing.

Bosch felt unsure about himself; slightly nauseous in fact. But then, he always felt this way when he was assigned to a new posting. Having to meet new people, look at new places...he swore, one day he would get really sick of it. Sighing, he resigned himself to his fate and turned right, heading towards the door and out the airlock.

When the door opened, his ears were greeted to the familiar sounds of any flight deck; multiple messages blaring over the PA system announcing incoming and outgoing wings, not to mention the familiar sounds of repair and other works going on.

Directly ahead of him a serviceman stood not 6 feet from the transport's entrance. Wearing the standard white service-side uniform of the GTVA's logistic arm, Bosch glanced at the blue epaulets on the shoulders, and seeing a lack of rank, looked down to the arm where a small 'v' shape was capped by a semi-circle - a Lance Corporal. The serviceman was quite tall, easily towering over Bosch by several inches, and looked to be quite fit, if tired. Bloodshot blue eyes stared out from sunken sockets, which in turned had dark circles around then. The most notable feature however was a thick moustache that covered a significant portion of his upper lip. It seemed to creep around the sides of his mouth to give the appearance of a small beard. On the serviceman's right brest was a name tag, with gold letters spelling out the name 'P. Lazar" on a black background.

Bosch came to a stop just an arm's length from the serviceman, who saluted crisply once he had stopped. "Captain Bosch?" His tone was surprisingly soft for a person his size, and the volume was more like that of a harsh whisper than anything else.

"Yes. And you would be...?" Bosch asked in return.

"In this case, I would be your Runner, Sir. I am also doubling as your clerk of sorts, since the current one left with the previous department head."

The man brought up hand, extending it to Bosch. Bosch, for his part, took it and shook it firmly. "My name is Paul Lazar Sir, LCP Paul Lazar – if you wish though, you can just call me Paul."

Bosch nodded. Casual up front he thought to himself. He didn't mind it much, as long the work got done.

Then Paul continued speaking. "I have read about your previous history, Sir, and from the looks of it, you'll be right at home here."

Now that caught Bosch's attention. How had this clerk managed to get access to his profile history at all? It should have been classified several levels above his clearance, at least.

As if he was reading Bosch's mind, Paul's lips curved up in a slight smile before he continued.

"I understand that you think the profile is supposed to be private; but after working here for years on end, you tend to have the occasional contact here and there that helps you wish such things. That, and information isn't exactly completely controlled here, as you will soon find out."

He stretched out his right hand, offering to carry Bosch's bag, but Bosch simply shook his head. He sighed internally – well, this was the GTVI – hell, he'd be surprised if they hadn't examined his profile at least six times already.

"Well then, Paul, it is good to meet you. However, I believe that I have to meet Commodore Goldbridge?"

Paul simply nodded, the smile fading just as quickly as it appeared.

"Yes, but she's...conviently 'occupied' by some meeting or the other at the moment. If you catch my drift, that is."

Bosch simply nodded. He caught the drift. Another slacker...as if I hadn't encountered enough of these types already Bosch thought to himself. Although the Combat side definitely had it's heroes and a sense of honor...the coldness; the politics that came with the service side sent chills down his spine, and hence the reason for his attempts to get back to combat. He'd seen too many people like this; been backstabbed way too many times to go through it again...well, at least as the head of a project, he had a certain amount of immunity.

Paul stepped aside and waved his arm towards the exit on his right. "However, she did ask me to give you a tour of the shipyard first, if you are willing. Otherwise, you can wait in her office for her arrival." he raised an eyebrow, waiting for Bosch's response.

Bosch only nodded. Having a look at the shipyards would be preferable to simply sitting in the office – reconnaissance and information gathering were always important parts of any assignment; regardless of where that assignment may be.

Paul nodded, and lead the way towards the door. It opened, revealing the internals of a large lift. Paul stepped in, and Bosch followed suit. To the right of the door was a control panel with several buttons on it, each corresponding with the floor of the installation.

Paul was about to reach for the panel, before turning to Bosch and asking "So, sir, which level would you like to examine first?"

Bosch thought for a second, unsure of which destination to go to. Finally, he spoke.

"The construction docks itself; engineering deck."

Paul nodded and pressed the appropriate button. The lift doors closed as the cabin lights blinked for a second. This alarmed Bosch a bit and he immediately grabbed the railing next to him, in case something happened, but Paul was quick to reassure him.

"Relax, sir, these old lifts may be a bit cranky, but they still work just as good as they do when they were built."

The lift surged sideways, surprising Bosch again. For a moment he couldn't help but think, what had he gotten himself into?

Around half a minute later, the lift stopped and the doors opened.

The scene beyond was that of a normal engineering deck, the sounds varying from large steel hammers to welders and loud cutters. Stepping out, Bosch looked up at a criss-crossing series of tracks up on the ceiling, upon which several cranes made their way across the docks. The docks itself was vast, completely different from the bay he had just come from. Although there was an airlock and an exit similar to the other one, Bosch realized that this one was only intended to move parts out towards the Ganymede once they were too large for the Arcadia.

His attention was attracted to some activity to his right. Nearby was a square construction pit, with a crane hovering above it, holding within the lattice of chains a large brown cylinder. As the thing rotated however, Bosch noticed the ingrained front side and realized it was actually massive beam cannon. He had to wonder though, what the hell was so big that it required a beam cannons that size? Indeed, no ship today could wield such a thing. Realizing it was probably classified, he didn't give much attention to it anyway. Instead, he focused on the people around it. Near the pit was a man dressed in a blue engineering coverall, a yellow safety hat and a green luminescent vest. In either hand he was waving green fluorescent cones, signaling the crane operator above on the adjustments required. What was more interesting however, were the commands he was shouting out.

Bosch drew away from Paul, grabbing a safety helmet from a nearby rack and then walking towards the pit. Paul simply followed behind. Approaching the man, Bosch stood back a few feet from him, arms crossed he simply listened as the man shouted to the person in the crane above.

"Albright, nice and easy now! Easy...easy...over to the right a bit there! No, no! Not to the left, to the right! Yeah, that's better! Ok, get ready to lower the cannon! Slowly! Slowly now!"

However, the crane operator didn't seem to have heard it properly, and the cannon seem to come down pretty fast.

"What the – slower! SLOWER DAMNIT!" The man shouted, taking a step back from the pit as the cannon careened downwards, threatening to hit the floor as hard as it could.

Then, at the last possible second, the Cannon jerked to a stop mere inches from the floor and then gently came to rest on the floor, with barely a thud or any other sound for that matter.

"Bloody hell! VENSON!"The man shouted, looking up at the crane and raising his fist. He let slew a hail of curses at the operator, till the person in question popped his head out the window, his face smiling.

"Relax boss! I've been operating cranes for 10 years now – you should know that by now!" Venson said, ignoring the cursing.

"I don't care even if you've been working with them for 100 years! This thing's damn important and word's come out from the top that it's to be handled carefully. If anything's damaged, I swear to god - "

"You swear you won't be doing much except docking my pay in exchange." Bosch spoke out from behind the man. Bosch could've sworn the man jumped out of his skin in surprise as he whirled around to face Bosch. He instantly realized his hunch was correct as he stared into the very angry face of Lt. Commander Gibson.

Gibson simply stared at Bosch for a second, his eyes narrowing. He was about to say something, but stopped, then started again before pausing...and a seconds after, only muttered a single word, pointing at Bosch with his right index finger.

"You!"

"Yes, Gibson, me. Long time no see." Bosch replied, smiling a bit.

"You know...you are SO a target for a sucker punch right now." Gibson replied, before letting out a loud laugh. He turned back up towards the crane operator. "Hey Venson! Get down here! It's Bosch!"

"It's WHO?" Venson asked, looking down from the window. He spotted Bosch and cursed. "Holy shit! If it isn't crash-man Bosch himself!" Venson's head immediately disappeared from the window and the crane's operating booth lowered itself to the ground. The door then opened on the side and Venson stepped out. He was also dressed pretty much the same way Gibson was, except the ranks on his shoulder had one less bar than Gibson's.

Venson pulled up next to Gibson, the latter of whom elbowed him and asked, somewhat jokingly.

"Hey, the man here just scared the living daylights out of me – tell me, should I sucker punch him or what?"

"Well, if I'm not wrong, he does still owe you for that game of darts" Venson replied.

Bosch raised his hands up, in the form of surrender. "Hey, I won that game fair and square – it's not my fault that your aim is lousy when you're drunk."

"Yeah...drunk on your damn beer! If you hadn't offered me that drink, you'd have had your ass handed to you on a silver platter and you know it – now pay up my 5 creds!" Gibson replied, his tone jovial. He outstretched his right hand, as if to receive payment.

Bosch, in turn, stepped back. "Hell no way I'm giving you the money! You chose to take that drink, not me! I'm not gonna pay for your lack of control!"

They all paused for a few seconds, an unusual silence befalling them suddenly. As sudden as it came though, it vanished as each one laughed audibly.

The scene was interrupted however, as Paul cleared his throat from behind Bosch, attracting their attention.

"Sir, you know the Captain?" He asked Gibson.

Gibson simply looked at the rank and cursed. "Holy shit! How the heck did you get that 3rd bar so quickly, Bosch? You're a captain already? Jeeezus! And you still don't want to pay me!"

Bosch simply smiled. "All comes with age, my friend." He turned around to Paul, to answer his question.

"I do know the commander here. We were stationed on the Bastion together before our squadron shifted out. We've been together since after that till it was disassembled around a decade or so ago."

"I hope you don't mind me asking, sir, but which squad?" Paul asked, his features in a frown. Bosch could see that he was somewhat annoyed that he had overlooked this detail. But then, Bosch could hardly expect someone so young to know something that was such a piece of ancient history.

Bosch looked to the others for a second before looking back at Paul.

"Why, probably the best squadron to be ever stationed on the Bastion itself! We flew with the finest pilots of the day and were even involved to extent with the McCarthy trails. Our squad was a part of history, and well, so were we. But if I tell you its name, you have to promise me something."

Again, he glanced at the others before continuing.

"We were all part of the 81st Screaming Weasels, the best and fastest interceptor squad of the Great war."

"The 81st Screaming what?" Paul asked, frowning, obviously not believing what he had heard.

"The 81st Screaming Weasels, my friend, and no, you didn't hear it wrong – it IS weasels." Bosch replied.

"Now that is a rather...'Eccentric' name." Paul replied, his tone controlled; but Bosch could tell that underneath it, the man must have been laughing like hell. Almost everyone did when they first heard the name; but they took it all back when they saw them perform.

Rather than press the point, Bosch simply placed a hand on Paul's shoulder.

"When you get the chance, go read up on the air shows from around a decade ago – we were part of the performances then."

He turned to Gibson and Venson and nodded. "Well, Gentlemen, perhaps a beer at the bar a bit later? I have to go report to the Commodore and then I have to report for my other assignment on this installation."

Both men nodded. Venson waved and headed off to get back into the crane. But Gibson remained; before he turned around and left, he asked one last question.

"So, Bosch, where have you been posted to?"

"I'll be taking command of the Iceni project, and the commodore was supposed to brief me on another project I'm supposed to be co-partnering in. Supposedly it has something to do with my background with the GTI and its technology."

Gibson stared blankly at Bosch for a moment. Then he took a step back, as if in shock. He raised his right hand, pointing it squarely at Bosch.

"Hooooly shit! So your the dead man that he was talking about!" Gibson exclaimed.

Bosch frowned for a second. What was Gibson talking about – or rather, who was he talking about?

"I'm the dead man who was talking about?" He replied, making his confusion evident to Gibson (as if he didn't know already).

Gibson simply smiled and lowered the hand. "Oh, you'll see. The only warning I can give you is to look out for Mara – she's one hell of a mean bitch for sure."

With that, Gibson nodded and then saluted. "Well, I gotta go back to work now – got a schedule to keep. Good luck with your meeting Bosch. Come by the bar in around three hours or so if you're free – i'll gather up the whole gang and introduce you to them, but I think you know some of them already."

He then turned around and walked off, leaving Bosch even more mystified than ever. Behind him, Paul cleared his throat, catching his attention. Bosch turned to face him,

"Sir. The Commodore wishes to see you now. If you will follow me, I will take you to her."

Bosch nodded and followed Paul back into the elevator, somewhat wary of what was going to happen next.

Around 10 minutes later, Bosch found himself led into the Commodore's office, and seated in front of her table...All was fine and good, with exception of the fact that she was not there!

This essentially left him in a somewhat awkward situation. Although the Commodore was not present; he was unable to leave the office as she might step in at any moment. However, if he decided to stick around and wait, if she came in quite late, he probably would die of boredom.

But then, Bosch was a patient man. If he needed to wait...well, he guessed there was little to do but wait. Instead, he looked around the office. It was sparse, with few other features than the dull table at the center, which itself was cluttered with everything from monitor screens to tons upon tons of paper. Few people actually used paper these days, and it struck Bosch that the Commodore must be pretty old-fashioned to continue the use.

Other than that, there were of course, the chairs in front of the desk, and the large seemingly imposing one behind it, as well as several potted plants lining most of the walls of the room, with exception of the doors he had just come through. No pictures or anything hung from the walls, with the only ones in the room being on the desk in front of him. But all of them were turned away, and Bosch decided it wasn't worth risking turning it around and getting caught. Sighing, he simply leaned back a bit and continued to think about the current situation.

He sat this way for nearly another 5 minutes before his right leg began to cramp a bit. Shifting around a bit, Bosch tried desperately to get some blood flowing back into both legs before they-

crap Bosch cursed to himself internally as the pain started to crawl up the leg. He desperately tried shifting a bit more to his left and moving the leg around a bit, but to no avail.

Finally cursing, the pain drove him into trying to stand up. It worked, to an extent - the blood started to flow back through the leg, and the pain subsided a bit. He gave a short sigh of relief, but this was short-lived as he immediately heard someone clearing there throat behind him.

Bosch whipped around, only to look into the smiling face of Commodore Goldbridge.

She was around the same height as Bosch, allowing her to make eye-contact with him quite easily. An ordinary shade of brown, they did well to match with the color of her skin and the face, which was now sporting a bright, somewhat amused smile. Her jaw was square, with a small, red pimple to the right. Sharp, blue eyes stared out at Bosch through rather sunken eye sockets. The circles around the eyes suggested that she hadn't slept in a while. She was slightly overweight, but it wasn't so bad; and she still looked somewhat attractive, if a bit old.

How long has she been standing there? Bosch cursed to himself.He grimaced before standing at attention (and grunting down the pain that caused) and saluting crisply.

"Commodore Goldbridge I assume?" Bosch asked, greeting the Commodore.

This surprised the Commodore, but not my much. Bosch saw a frown flash across her features, before she nodded and saluted right back. She then smirked before speaking.

"You assume right. I was wondering how long you would've lasted there, Captain. From the looks of it though, you've set a new record."

She then laughed; moving around the table and taking the seat.

Bosch was taken aback by this. How long was she standing there? Or was she watching him from elsewhere? Either way, it was unnerving, to say the least.

"I see..." he replied, cautiously and coldly. If there was one thing Bosch hated, it was having jokes like this played on him.

"Well, let's get down the business then." The Commodore replied, ignoring Bosch's cold reply. She picked up a data pad from the desk. Probably his posting order, from the looks of it. She glanced up however, noticing that he was still standing.

"Sit down Captain, there is no need to be so formal – at least, not here."

Bosch nodded and took the seat again, being careful not to strain his leg too much.

Once seated, the Commodore started to speak, not giving Bosch a chance to start.

"Interesting. Your posting orders seem to have come from Vasudan high command; which is odd since normally such things will come from 3rd Fleet HQ or the like. What were you up to down at the academy anyway? Must have been something serious to get a posting here of all places." she mused softly.

Bosch just shook his head and sighed. He was getting sick and tired of this. The incident was a thorn in his side now, and there was little Bosch could do to remove except grin and bear it.

Looking down, he replied softly.

"I was going through the tests that would certify me to return to active fighter duty. Unfortunately, on my last test I was supposed to fly an Ursa bomber through an obstacle course around the facility. Sadly, I decided to take a shortcut through - "

"The Ganymede ring?" Goldbridge asked, eyebrows raised.

Bosch was rather surprised, he simply nodded and asked.

"Yes. How did you know? I thought you said the news hadn't come here?"

Goldbridge simply leaned back in the chair and smiled.

"That's 'cause I did the very same thing. Those damn rings look large enough for a bomber to go through. However, what I forgot was that the turret took up space too. Once the turret hit the ring, it was sheared off and my power got cut, leaving me drifting in space. Of course, that was ten years ago; after that, command decided to shift me out to here."

Now Bosch was really surprised. The academy instructors hadn't mentioned anything about this to him. What was even odder was the fact that they got posted to the exact same place for the incident.

"But it was too long ago to matter. At the least, know that you're in good company here, Captain Bosch. Right now there is too much that needs to be done, and I shouldn't be keeping you with such frivelties." Goldbridge said, interrupting his thoughts.

She opened a drawer and took out a data pad, handing it over to Bosch.

"These are your assignments. Your primary assignment is to oversee the Iceni project that's going on here. You'll be working closely with Lt. Gibson and Lt. Samsa. However, Samsa will be posting out soon as he's returning to active fighter duty soon, so you'll have to rely mostly on Gibson. The secondary assignment is to assist Dr. Ramayan on a top-secret project."

The last sentence caught Bosch's attention. Top secret? Now this was interesting.

Goldbridge noticed his sudden interest.

"Well, I see that caught your interest. Sadly, I can't tell you much about it except that it's classified beyond my level. I only know that it's called ETAK, and I have no idea what the hell it's supposed to be. You'll be working closely with Lt (Dr.) Ramayan on this. His lab is on level 10."

Goldbridge nodded, indicating that the meeting had ended. Bosch stood up, collecting the data pad. He turned and headed to the doors, which slid open silently. However, just before they closed, Goldbridge called out behind him.

"Oh, and when you're down at Ramayan's lab, say hello to Mara for me."

Bosch turned, frowning. However, before he could say anything, the doors closed – but not before he saw the Commodore give a very cheeky and evil smile.

Who the hell was Mara? It looked like Bosch would find out soon enough. Sighing, he nodded at the secretary seated nearby and then headed out, his mind filled with more questions than answers.

As the lift descended slowly, Bosch had a bad feeling start to form at the pit of his stomach. His journey here had been riddled with problems; and from the looks of it they weren't going to end either.

First, after leaving the Commodore's office Bosch had made every attempt to get the elevator to go down to Level 10, but it had failed; citing reasons that it was not authorized to exit at that level. After spending nearly 5 minutes trying to override or otherwise coax the computer into taking him there, he had finally given up and tried to ask how he got there. Apparently, their was a separate elevator going down to that level, and that level only, but the Computer did not recognize his authorization codes to give the information on where exactly it was.

Hence, Bosch had set out to find it, asking around from the crew how to get to this Elevator and/or to level 10. However, when Bosch did ask the question, whomever he asked would either give him an odd stare, or simply gawked at him. When he had pressed them for an answer, all they said was to not go down there; not then, not ever. He had been bounced from department to department till, finally, in an act of desperation, he had gone back to the Hanger bay and sought for Gibson's help.

Gibson, in turn, had disappeared from the hanger bay, and had left for the mess; sending Bosch all the way across the installation towards the crew rest areas to find Gibson. Even then, searching through the bar itself had been a tough task, but he had finally found Gibson and managed to get the information out of him. However, most of Gibson's friends had given him the same odd stare the others had; and nearly all of them warned him not to go down there.

Then Gibson told them Bosch had been posted there. Bosch could've sworn that anyone would have heard a pin drop in the sudden silence that followed. Although the bar wasn't crowded at the time, it wasn't empty either, and had a respectable level of ambient noise. But the noise, the conversations...it all simply vanished into the silence once Gibson uttered the news. Many of the patrons then simply crossed their hearts and seemed to utter prayers of sympathy and regret. Many uttered the words 'dead man walking' or 'poor bloke' before turning back to what they were doing. But for the most part, Bosch ignored them, took the directions and left.

Unfortunately, the directions led him all the way back across the installation, past the hangar bay and into what appeared to be a very dilapidated and unused portion of the base. The corridors positively reeked of smells the nature of which Bosch didn't want to even figure out. Fortunately it had been brief, as Bosch finally found the elevator after several wrong turns and lots of back-tracking...if one could call it that.

The thing was more of a freight lift than anything else; extremely wide and tall, it appeared to have been specially catered to taking heavy equipment. From the incredible amount of rust on the sides and the support beams, its age was clearly evident. So was the lack of use; cobwebs stretched across the ceilings and walls, leaving Bosch only to wonder how the hell they had even got there, considering that stations were normally swept clean of pests and insects on a regular basis.

He had just shook his head and attempted to work the control panel as best as he could...except for the fact that it was dead. Bosch had come very close to simply throwing up his arms and giving up. The universe hardly seemed to be in his favor, and it was quite clear from the suggestions of everyone else he'd be better off not knowing what was down on Level 10. But curiosity drove him onwards...there had to be a reason this was so difficult...something was hiding down there; something that did not want to be found. Besides, Bosch couldn't go back on his orders...it would count as treason, at the very least.

So he had simply swallowed his pride and worked at the console for nearly five minutes before it's lights blinked back on, bringing the entire elevator to life. After closing it, Bosch had set the panel to take him down to level 10. Then the elevator had begun its slow descent downwards albeit at a somewhat slow crawl.

Oh hell yes, it had been riddled with troubles, to say the least. But, hopefully, it should be over soon.

Unfortunately for Bosch, little did he realize that his troubles were only about to start.

The environment in the elevator started to become more and more damp and humid, causing Bosch to start sweating profusely. He instantly regretted not changing out his dress uniform first, but he had little choose but to bear with it for now. He did unfasten the top few buttons first though, and it did bring in a little relief, if nothing else.

Finally, thirty seconds later, the elevator squealed rather loudly as it slowed to a stop. The doors in front rolled off to the right and left, revealing a long, dark corridor in front of him. Only one of the ceiling lights was functioning, and that was towards the end of the corridor, near what appeared to be a door of sorts. Bosch could barely make out the corridor itself. From the looks of it, there were a few side corridors, but he could only tell it from the fact that some places seemed darker than others.

The light of the elevator only seemed to extend for a meter or two past the exit, with the same being for the light at the end. It was times like these that Bosch really wished he had a flashlight. Sighing, he stepped forward, slowly walking down the corridor. It was around maybe 10-20 meters away at most, but still, Bosch walked slowly, feeling the corridor ahead as much as he could before putting the full weight into his step. With the dilapidated conditions surrounding him, it wasn't too hard to imagine that the floor might not be as stable as one expected.

A few meters in, he came to the first junction. To either side of him was a corridor, but here also the lights were all out, with exception of the one near the door at either end. However, all the doors appeared to be boarded up and barricaded. Nobody was getting through there that was for sure. Bosch paused for a second, enjoying the cool breeze and the cross-ventilation that came from the junction. He was damn close to starting to pant out audibly – the humidity down here was insane! No respectable engineer would have allowed such a thing to happen, and you could sure as hell bet Bosch was going to write in a complaint about this. The humidity, almost-zero light conditions and the crampness combined together to give an overly claustrophobic experience, and he could now see why the rest had warned him not to go down here.

With that, Bosch continued on. A few more meters down, he passed by a panel. The panel's lights and displays were on. Bosch looked at it for a second. Although the display itself wasn't very unusual, what were the controls. The control itself seemed to consist of several keys along with an array of five glowing red lights that were arranged similar to a 'v' shape. There appeared to be a breeze blowing in from the side of the panel, as if there was a corridor there. But it was so dark that Bosch couldn't even see his own hands, much less any corridor or door. He simply shrugged. It must have been a ventilation panel or something, while the controls and displays were probably just an outdated model he had never seen before.

Turning back to the door, Bosch once again began his slow trek down the corridor, not giving a second look backward.

Then he heard something.

Bosch wasn't sure what it was – it sounded much like how an insect would move...a soft, quick scratching noise, that's all it had been. But it was enough to drive him into jumping and whirling around to face whatever it was. However, this proved futile as the light from the panel hardly went far, not revealing anything.

Then he heard it again.

It was definitely nearby, and this time quite clear. A definite scratching noise, much like and insect would make. Bosch shrugged. Considering the age and the cobwebs he saw earlier, he shouldn't be surprised – a lot of insects would have made their home here, especially cockroaches. Again, another complaint for the station super-intendent.

He turned around and kept on walking, reaching the door. The door itself was an odd sight, especially on a station. It was like a traditional one, made out of wood and with a doorknob. There were no controls, no security measures to ensure that nobody unauthorized entered, except perhaps the need for a key. Grabbing the knob, Bosch tried to twist it open, and was surprised when it moved. He had expected it to perhaps be locked. But then remembering what the others had said, Bosch realized that anyone coming down here must have a death wish...or perhaps, execution orders?

The last thought sent a chill down his spine. However, he dismissed it. The GTVA wasn't that barbaric, especially after the BETAC convention.

Taking some comfort in that fact, Bosch opened the door and stepped through, seriously doubting that his day could get much worse anyway.

Had one stayed back and observed the panel however, they would have seen something strange.

The array of lights blinked off...and then on again. And then off again, before finally coming back on. It then moved, forwards. It then turned towards the door Bosch had gone through, and slowly started moved towards it, apperantly gliding through the corridor much like how a ghost would glide through the darkness; firmly intent upon it's chosen victim, never faltering, never wavering.

However, it was only as it approached the small ring of light would one have recognized it's true form. Covered in an insect like exoskeleton, the thing had five limbs; three below and two above and back and all of them ended in very sharp and short claws. It took up the entire space of the corridor, using all five limbs to pull it along and through. The array of compound eyes studied the door; and if one looked carefully, they would have noticed a strange 'flap' of sorts next to the eyes, along what a structure that seemed artificial. This structure housed what appeared to be a cannon of sorts.

If one were educated in GTVA history though, they would have immediately recognized the thing for what it was: a Shivan.

Knowing this, one would have immediately evacuated the area and left it to its own devices. But unfortunately for Bosch, this particular Shivan was going to show him just how much worse his day could get.

The room beyond the door was equally dark, and Bosch found it quite hard to make out much. However, a few lights were on here and there, and Bosch was at least able to see a few distinct features. The entire room appeared to be a large lab of sorts; it's surface area was perhaps 50 feet into 30 feet, with long rows of rectangular tables stretching across the length of the room. Lights hung down from the ceiling on long cables, illuminating the tables In the few locations where they were operating. A few others were on, but only faintly, casting their entire regions in a faint twilight of sorts.

The tables themselves held test tubes of various sizes, along with several flasks and burettes. Some of these were filled with water or other chemicals; for the most part everything was empty. However, the faint scent of disinfectant and other chemicals hung in the air, irritating his sinus and causing him to sneeze a few times. The sneeze caused quite a bit of dust to fly off the tables, irritating him even more. Finally, however, he managed to catch his breath and stop it. He just shook his head sadly.

This was…anti-climatic, to say the least. Bosch had expected some sort of proper facility for research, or at least for this to have been the end of the trip to the Doctor's lab. Sighing, he looked around…perhaps there was a door or something that led to somewhere else. After straining his eyes in the darkness, he finally found one at the other end of the lab. The light above the door had failed, and Bosch could barely make it out, but the handle cast a slight reflection off what little light that was there, catching his attention.

Lets hope this one's the last one. Bosch thought to himself, getting really, really tired of all this. He was about to head for the door when a loud creaking noise caught his attention from behind him.

Looking at the door he just came from, Bosch realized that he hadn't closed it, and it now hung open, creaking as it swung in the…

Wait a second…there's no wind in a station. Bosch thought to himself. And doors simply didn't creak like that on their own.

Whirling about, Bosch came to face the door, which slowly creaked open. But he could only see blackness beyond the door, which was odd; since the light was on a second ago…he couldn't see anything beyond the door, at least, until it opened fully.

Slowly, Bosch could make out something glowing in the darkness. An array of five red lights – not unlike what Bosch had seen next to the control panel. What the hell was it! How did it move from there to here, or open the door for that matter!

The lights turned, looking first left and then right. It turned into Bosch's direction, but didn't see anything, as Bosch had ducked under the nearby table. He cursed under his breath. What the hell was that thing? After a second, he peeped out from just above the top of the table, trying to get a glimpse of the thing.

The array of lights was still standing in the doorway, scanning the rest of the room from the looks of it. However, it slowly moved forwards. Bosch could hear a soft thunk come from behind the door, as whatever it was moved it's limbs and dragged itself forwards. It paused at the doorway itself, as if squeezing to fit inside the narrow archway. Bosch watched as a thick arm extended forwards into the lighted area just beyond the doorway. It was grey in color, and appeared to be heavily armored. At the end of the arm was a three-toed claw. It grabbed the wall on the left side of the door, while another arm extended out and grabbed the right side. Looking carefully, Bosch realized that there were other similar marks along the wall.

The thing pulled itself in, revealing two additional, upper arms as well as one more on the bottom. Although Bosch instinctively recognized it, he was too shocked to process the information.

This thing…it was what the GTVA had trained him to fight ever since the great war, it was the great enemy that had faced humanity, and only through sheer good luck and fortune for us, had lost the war. He had seen the pictures; the recordings of the teams that had gone into a Shivan freighter in an attempt to capture a specimen; they had encountered more just like this…and had been torn to shreds by them. Bosch could still remember the screams of the team for many nights after watching the video for the first time.

And now…here, one of things was standing right in front of him, probably hunting him. Worst still, the weapons used by the marines all those years ago only stunned a grown Shivan, and Bosch was with nothing but his hands…and maybe surprise.

But against a Shivan, even Surprise was useless.

He ducked back down as the Shivan turned to his direction again. He then heard it move away from his direction, suggesting that it hadn't seen him. He breathed a sigh of relief and once again peeked above the table…

When he looked above the surface however, all he saw on the other side were five very red, very brightly glowing compound eyes staring right back at him. This was only offset by the massive glow just to the right of those eyes, coming from the shoulder-mounted beam cannon. The Shivan let out a loud screech, causing Bosch to cover both his ears in pain.

Bosch cursed, ducking just as the Beam cannon fired, arching its way through most of the wooden table structures, as well as anything on the table itself. Its bright light illuminated the entire room much akin to lightning. Flasks shattered left and right as the beam ran its course clear across the room, scorching the wall on the other side. Bosch sprang into action, cursing as he ran towards the end of the table. The Shivan spotted him, turning the beam cannon to track him as he ran. He dropped at the last second, tumbling on the ground, the cannon just sweeping by where he had been running less than a second ago.

Catching his breath, Bosch began to run again, this time towards the other end of the room with the door. Behind him, he could hear the Shivan screech again as the Beam cannon shut down. Glancing back, he saw it jump up onto the ceiling, defying gravity by doing a twist in mid-air and grabbing the ceiling with its claws. From there, it leapt towards Bosch, intercepting him before he could turn the corner towards the door. Bosch saw it, ducked and turned just before the last table. The Shivan flew right over him, hit the wall and fell onto the floor, temporarily disorientated.

Taking this chance, Bosch ran as fast as he could towards the other end of the table. He cursed as the dress uniform slowed him down from going at full speed though. Cursed formalities! But then, he couldn't exactly have expected to have come into a combat situation…

As he turned the corner, however, the Shivan recovered and turned to face him. Desperately, Bosch grabbed the door knob and tried to turn in…only to loose his balance as it broke off completely. Holding the knob in his hand he looked at it for the briefest of seconds, just realizing how rusted it truly was. However, he never got the chance to regain his balance, as Bosch fell to the left against the wall. The Shivan took this opportunity and leapt again, landing directly above Bosch. It placed a lower arm on either side of Bosch, while burying its upper two arms into the wall directly above him, pinning him into place. Bosch was now trapped, and quite possibly dead unless he did something, fast.

The beam cannon once again began to charge, and Bosch could do little but turn away as it glowed brighter and brighter. Till…finally…it greeted him.

"Greetings."

The voice it spoke in was soft, feminine in nature. Its tone was completely calm, belying the sheer panic and fear that was in Bosch's eyes as he looked up in surprise and spoke.

"What?"

He asked, somewhat dumbfounded at what the Shivan just said.

"Greetings…my name is Mara. Welcome to the Doctor's lab - How may I be of assistance to you today?"

Before Bosch could reply though, he felt something sharp suddenly puncture his right shoulder. He turned to looked at it, and saw a dart embedded deep into it.

"My apologies for the tranquilization, but my scans indicate that you are supposed to be the Doctor's next co-worker. However, till your role can be confirmed, you are not authorized to know the entry and exit methods into the lab." The Shivan continued, its tone remaining calm, as if nothing as happened.

The universe started to fade around Bosch as the Shivan continued to speak.

"Thank you for your co-operation, and have a nice day."

Gibson was right. Mara is one mean bitch Bosch thought before the world finally went dark.

"Look, I don't care if it's 'following protocol' but doing this to every single person that comes to this department is going to make our staffing problems worse, not better."

A male voice spoke out, cutting through the darkness that enveloped Bosch. It seemed to come somewhere to his right. Another voice replied though – it was similar to the one that spoke to him before the blackness came up, but he couldn't remember who it was.

"I am aware of that, Doctor, but my orders and protocols are clear. I must identify and stop all unwanted personnel, as well as keep the entrances hidden."

Again, the first voice replied.

"Yes, but we've got enough rumors flying across the base as it is. We're only lucky that the Commodore understands your need to exist; otherwise you'd most likely be a memory by now!"

"But Doctor, technically, my programming is but a memory inside the computer-"

"Oh no you don't, don't give me that technicality crap again! You know full well what I was referring to – you're just trying to change the subject! Imagine what would happen next time someone decided to come with guns – they could just damage the entire projection matrix!"

The first voice countered back, his tone obviously quite angry. Bosch began to recognize the second, female voice though.

"Perhaps, but at the moment I'm afraid to change the subject again. According to vital signs, your co-worker is regaining consciousness."

Bosch slowly began to open his eyes, revealing a very blurry ceiling above him. Fortunately, there was no light staring him directly in the face. From the right, a dark-haired face emerged into view. It was distinctively eastern, probably Indian, and the person had a very worried expression on his face. He looked up at someone on his left, speaking.

"Ah, finally. Mara, get back into the computer – we don't want to scare our guest any further."

Bosch looked to the left, only to see the silhouette of a Shivan fading away into nothingness. Then he remembered what happened. That Shivan….had it merely been a hologram? How? Bosch never knew holographic technology was so advanced to allow such things. Turning to his right, he brought his hand up to his head, and then to the ache in his shoulder.

"What….what happened?" Bosch asked, still somewhat groggy. The man looked down at him and shrugged.

"Mara here tranquilized you. She calls it protocol; I just call it something the GTVI left behind that she should forget."

The man helped Bosch up into a sitting position on the bed. Looking around, Bosch realized that he was in a small medical lab of sorts. The bed he was on was the only one in the entire lab, and was pretty much the focus of the entire thing. Although there were no instruments around the bed itself, it was clear from the panels and the sockets on the ceiling that they existed at one point of time.

"Don't move around too much – the tranquilizer will take a while to wear off." The man said, putting away the small medical scanner he was holding. He placed it onto a nearby tray, on which Bosch could see several instruments, some sharp while others were of…questionable nature, to say the least. Frowning, he looked back at the person, who was arranging the instruments. Bosch asked his throat somewhat raspy.

"Doctor Ramayan, I assume?"

The doctor simply looked up to him and nodded. "Yes, that assumption would be correct, Captain."

Taking away the hand from his head, Bosch nodded. Somehow, he wasn't surprised that Ramayan knew his name.

A long silence hung over the air, as both parties waited for the other to speak first. Finally, Bosch spoke up, smashing the silence.

"I don't know about you, but when one gets introduced to your colleagues in a strange manner, it's never counted as getting off on the right foot." Bosch laughed, getting off the bed and standing. He turned to the doctor, giving a short smile.

The doctor in turn, smiled, nodding.

"Yes, indeed. At least, though, I have fulfilled my obligation to ensure you get the exercise you need. That, and Mara tends to be one mean bitch."

"Am not! I was only following protocol!" Mara's voice rang out from the other side of the lab, where a large display showed several schematics. Bosch recognized it as a large computer complex.

"Are too! Everyone on the stations thinks you are one!" The doctor shouted back at her. He turned back to Bosch before nodding and extending his hand.

"Perhaps we should start over then – My name is Doctor Ramayan. I apologize for her…'enthusiasm', but Mara is a bit single-minded, as are most A.I. constructs these days. Sometimes she seems much like a real person, but others time she reveals her true limitations."

Bosch looked at the hand, and then took it.

"It's no problem. I'm Captain Bosch – I've received orders that I will be assisting you in a project. GTVA command didn't clue me into what it was, though."

Ramayan nodded, but instead of answering, he waved towards the door.

"Perhaps this would be better explained over a cup of coffee. Would you care to join me in the mess?"

Bosch nodded, realizing he hadn't eaten or drank anything since he had gotten aboard the transport to here. He couldn't remember how long it was – but his stomach did as it let out a loud rumble.

Dr. Ramayan simply laughed. "Well, looks like you haven't eaten in a while. Come, I'll get Mara to cook us some food in the spec mess."

With that, Ramayan led the way out, with Bosch in tow.

Several minutes later, they were in the nearby mess, where Mara had prepared several buttered toast and laid it out on the table. As they traveled here, Bosch had observed that there was quite literally no-one else on the entire level. All the rooms they passed were empty and abandoned. However, the doctor did not bother to explain the reason as they were walking. When the reached the mess however, it's condition was quite clean and well-kept, a total opposite when compared to the rest of the level.

Ramayan led them to one of the tables, grabbing one of the toasts along the way. Bosch took a tray and a plate from one of the sides and took a few pieces. After placing them on the table, he then joined Ramayan next to the coffee machine, mug in hand.

"Don't mind if I ask, but is this entire level so empty? Don't you have any other staff here?" Bosch asked.

Ramayan nodded, his focus still on the machine.

"Nope. Only people down here are me and Mara. This entire level used to be full of people at one point of time, but after the GTVI abandoned the original project and cut the funding, the only one left running is the one I am working on now."

The doctor paused, considering carefully what to say next.

"The GTVI didn't have the funding to clear out the entire restricted tech left behind down here, so they simply set the entire level on lockdown. Since I was using it, they didn't have to worry much about wastage either. As for staff…."

Ramayan paused; the coffee machine pinged, indicating it was ready. Taking the coffee jug from the machine, he poured himself a mug, as well as for Bosch. They then proceeded to the table, as he continued to speak.

"Unfortunately, the only people who qualify for working on this project are those with experience with the GTI and the Shivans. Such people are rare in the GTVA, and even rarer in the service side. I put in my request for a research partner over three years ago."

Bosch simply nodded. It must have been sheer luck that whomever had decided his posting assignment remembered about the Doctor's request, otherwise he wouldn't have landed up here at all. The doctor took a seat opposite the Bosch and sipped his coffee.

"What about the research here – what was this place's original purpose? What are you doing here?" Bosch asked.

The Doctor simply looked at the mug, shaking it slowly, swirling the brown liquid around. He spoke, not looking up.

"It's of a classified nature, but since we'll be working together, I might as well tell you. This entire level was once meant as a combat training zone for the 194th Dark Claymores, a combined Terran-Vasudan marine squadron that had been specially trained for combat against Shivans, either on the ground, on our spaceships, or onboard their own warships. To simulate the combat zone, the entire level was fitted with state-of-the-art holographic technology, with main focus being on the nearby void area. We could simulate any surrounding within the void area; ranging from a lab, to inside Shivan transports and if needed, outer space as well. They trained here for almost a decade before funding was cut by the GTVI around two years ago. What happened to them is classified beyond my level, though, so I have no clue. However, the equipment here was so expensive to produce, the disposal methods for it ended up being equally expensive, especially since the newer models can perform significantly better than half this outdated stuff. It's also the reason why Mara exists – she was one of the original batches of 'Shivan' programs that were used as the enemy. I managed to pry her out of the hands of the GTVI when they closed down the project, so that I could use her to continue what I was researching here."

The Doctor paused. He took a sip of the coffee, ignoring Bosch's rapt attention. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity to Bosch, he continued.

"As for what I am doing here….I was posted here around two years ago, when I was once again contracted by the GTVA to do research into Shivan physiology and biology, just like I had been to work on perfecting their shielding technology during and after the great war. At the time only a few others knew as much as I did, so they hired me back for quite a pay, but turned out my work wouldn't be like what I did 30 years ago…"

This got Bosch really interested. This Doctor…how old was he? From his appearance, he looked as old as Bosch himself, but if he had been working on shield technology during the Great War…he must be a great degree older indeed. His interest must have been too obvious, however, as Ramayan noticed it.

"I see that got your attention. You were involved in the great war too?"

Bosch nodded.

"Yes…I made it into active combat service at the end of the Great War, just after the Lucifer was destroyed in subspace – I was involved in the clean up of the remaining Shivan forces alongside the rest of the 52nd Screaming Weasels. After that, I was attached out temporarily in several missions against the GTI Hades rebellion. That's pretty much where my own research on the Shivans and the GTI began, and probably the reason I am here, now."

The doctor simply acknowledged before replying back.

"Probably. Either way, it's good to know that you've at least got some background in the field. The project we're working on here is probably of extreme importance, but the GTVI don't seem to agree with me in that regards."

He paused. Bosch was curious – the GTVI rarely, if ever, let down projects of importance, but then they were known to occasionally prioritize one that they deemed to be 'more' important.

"The project name I started on was called ETAK. I don't know what it stands for, and I doubt the GTV will ever tell me what it does, either. It was meant as a complete analysis of the way the Shivans communicated and how they lived. We made great strides using what evidence was present until now, but there was a great deal of data that the GTI managed to steal and keep. However, it was enough to start on an ambitious project – one that may allow us communication with the Shivans itself."

Bosch was taken aback. Communications with the Shivans? He had never comprehended such a thing. But then, he as a pilot he was trained for combat, meant to fight a war. Unlike the doctor, he never had the opportunity to think about stopping one. But come to think of it…why not? Till today, many scientists had spent insane amounts of times trying to figure out on how they communicated. Many suspected it was via the high-pitched screeches and other noises they made, as seen in the video. But there were a few, like Bosch, who suspected that there was something else…the Shivans were adept at working in vacuum conditions. Sound normally did not carry across the vacuum, so there had to be some other means. Eager to find out more, Bosch immediately bombarded the doctor with questions.

"So which method will you be using? The suspected sound method, or for something else? Do you have evidence of either?"

The Doctor cut him off – he seemed used to this sort of barrage.

"All will be explained in due time in your work here, I assure you."

Bosch nodded. He'd find out soon enough. But yet, he was curious about something else.

"I understand. However, I hope you don't mind if I ask a rather personal question?"

Dr Ramayan shrugged. "Sure, go ahead." He said.

"Why did you join the GTA back then?" Bosch asked.

Dr. Ramayan simply shook his head sadly. His expression changed to a frown, and he placed the cup onto the table. Bosch immediately recognized that he had hit a sore spot there.

"I never was part of the GTA. Not now, not then."

He proceeded to take a sip of the coffee, before continuing.

"I was with a mercenary group during the great war. We were hired by the GTA, and eventually just became part of it. My lab and facilities were taken over by the authorities, but they let me continue to be part of the research team that took over it. I was the overall in-charge of the project to research the Shivan shields. My parents at the time were both pilots in the GTA, so yeah; I didn't get- too much trouble either. At least, it was till the end of the war."

Ramayan looked down, pausing. Bosch was about to say something when he looked back up, a somewhat sad expression in his eyes.

"Both died in a strike mission against the PVN just hours before the cease-fire was announced."

"I see…sorry to hear that." Bosch said his tone low. Ramayan just shrugged.

"Why would you be sorry? You didn't kill them…such are times of war; something these new age kids desire so badly." He simply shook his head and placed the mug back on the table. He leaned back in the chair a bit, looking right at Bosch.

"It doesn't matter though – at least not here and most definitely not now. I have buried the ghosts of my past – I was one of the few that got the chance to meet the Vasudan captain that killed both my parents. We had talked for ages at length…at first, I wanted to kill him with my bare hands. But cooler heads prevailed, till, finally, I realized that he was exactly like my parents at the time: a soldier meant to fight, and worry about little else. Its all in the past, though, and there isn't much I can do now…." He stopped, letting the last sentence hanging in the air.

Bosch couldn't help but remember his own ghosts...perhaps just as bad, perhaps not, but still ghosts nonetheless.

He simply nodded sadly.

"Agreed…but you're not the only one though…" Bosch whispered, remembering the events past. The Doctor looked up, somewhat puzzled by what Bosch had just said.

"My parents were also in the GTA. My father was the captain of the GTC Repbulic, a Leviathan class cruiser. My mother was on Riviera station, Ross 128 when the Shivans came. She was one of the few were on their way out when they did come though, but the Shivans damaged her craft, injuring her severely. By the time we got to her, she was..."

Bosch didn't continue…he couldn't. Instead, he simply shook his head. Such ghosts were too much to bear. Ramayan simply nodded in response. A silence once again took over the room, with neither men speaking.

Then Bosch looked up. He looked directly at Ramayan, who simply looked back. In that brief glance, Bosch realized that they both had a connection. One that time itself seemed to have ordained. Such coincidence…it came about once it a lifetime. He continued to speak.

"Ever since then, I've pursued with everything I've had…to find out why the Shivans did it. Why did they wish to cause such bloodshed, such disaster to us and the ancients? So far, I still haven't found out why…"

He paused…looking down at his own mug. A sudden realization began to dawn, exciting his mind with possibilities…possibilities that he never dreamed of before. Ramayan seemed to pick up on this and continued.

"But if we finish this project…we could do the most direct thing possible – "

" - which would be to simply ask them." Bosch finished, smiling, filled with a new vigor, a new excitement.

"Assuming that the Shivans come back that is – for all we know, we finished them off with the Lucifer." Ramayan pointed out.

Bosch looked down, smiling.

"Perhaps so, Doctor. But from what I know, and from what I have gleamed off the Ancients, the Shivans are not one to give up so easily. There has to be something here that attracted them to us – and when the Great Destroyers have a goal, nothing stops them till it is achieved." He paused, looking back up at the doctor.

"They will be back, Doctor, this much I can most definitely assure you. However, with your help, perhaps we can communicate with them…find out why…it would be the only other solution to what may just be a totally blood-filled war…something that the lost generation continually seems to seek, but something which us old-timers wish to prevent."

He paused, letting it sink in.

"So, Doctor, when do we begin? I don't know about you, but I intend to help make sure your project is finished, by hook or by crook.:

The doctor simply smiled. He placed the mug on the table and got up. "We can begin right now, as a matter of fact. Mara, get the summary of our work so far! We have work to do!"

He waited for Bosch to get up before bringing forward his right hand. Bosch took it, shaking it firmly. "Something tells me, this is going to be the beginning of a long, long friendship, sir." He said.

Bosch smiled. Even though they had only just met, he could tell that this was going to be a long friendship, and nothing short of death was going to stop it.

Almost Five Years Later

Admiral Aken Bosch stood once again in dress uniform, ready for what was probably the toughest meeting in his life. Although previously, his toughest was after his incident at the academy, what that old admiral could throw at him simply paled in comparison to what the person he was going to see now could do. Even though he had been newly-promoted to the rank of Admiral, it still held little power in this case.

Thinking back, Bosch realized that it had been an eventful few years, to say the least. The past five years were spent working on the Iceni and the ETAK project. The former had actually finished completion much ahead of schedule, but the latter had stalled - and stalled badly.

The Iceni…the GTVA's only class of frigate. Built with the help of his close friends in the shipyards, it had come out magnificently, and now hung in front of Bosch, so close that he felt that he could touch it if he reached out the window. Although around the same size as a Deimos corvette, the Iceni was much more powerful than it. It packed the greatest amount of firepower for any ship it's size, and was capable of both frontal assaults as well as taking on ships from either side. It's anti-fighter weapons package was respectable as well, allowing it cover against most medium and light bombers. All this, while still being maneuverable enough to dodge larger craft's beam fire as well. However, all this came at the cost of armor.

In the design process, they had tried to place the same beam-retardant armor as the Deimos on it, but it had slowed down the engine so much that it barely moved faster than an asteroid. In the end, they stripped off most of the hull plates and left the re-enforced super-structure in place. There was another trump card that nobody else knew about; something Bosch had ordered in place just for himself. It was a secret that not even the GTVA would know about...but they would find out soon enough, assuming if he was forced to play his hand…especially due to the delays with the ETAK.

After nearly four years of work, both Bosch and Doctor Ramayan had come to the conclusion that, without further data on the Shivans, it was simply impossible to move forwards with the ETAK project.

Unfortunately, both also agreed that the missing piece of data – the autopsy report of a Shivan itself – was physically present in only one location within the entire GTVA.

The data was located only on the wreckage of the Hades, the GTI's lone destroyer when it rebelled against the GTVA. The destroyer, although by now nearly half a century old, would have still had it's data in a physical storage. However, one would quite literally have to search every deck of the wreckage in an attempt to find an intact console or data memory core to get it. However, the location of the wreckage itself was classified beyond both their level of clearance, meaning neither could get access to it.

Leaving Gibson in charge of the Iceni project and Ramayan to continue what he could, Bosch had then spent the better part of last year battling the GTVI's bureaucracy and red tape in an attempt to find the location and secure boarding passage onto the Hades itself. Although he had found out the former, the latter had been a problem, to say the least.

Bosch had quite literally fought his way up the chain of command – going from the GTVI representative in Ribose, all the way to GTVI command in Beta Aquilae, bouncing from department to department before finally squaring off with the head of the GTVI itself. However, the head felt that he was not authorized to give permission either, as the wreckage had been moved into the Deneb system, and then crash-landed onto Deneb IV around 10 years ago by the Vasudans. The entire zone had been quarantined, and nobody was allowed to move in and out. Since the system was under primarily Vasudan control and influence, Galatic Terran-Vasudan Intelligence had referred him to the Galactic Vasudan Intelligence branch (GVI), based on Vasuda prime.

After spending four months there, Bosch had gotten to new lows in opinions of the Vasudan bureaucracy, as for the next several months, he was again bounced up through the departments, till, finally, he was going to get an answer today.

The Vasudans had fought him the entire way, for some reason they struggled to stop him from even getting near the Hades, with some officers threatening to arrest Bosch and his crew for treason. Their aggression….it was odd, to say the least.

But today, all that didn't matter. Today was the day he would finally get his answer, as well as knowing his fate and of things to come. They had finally bounced him up to the highest authority, next to the GTVA Security Council as well as the Terran President. Today he would be meeting with Emperor Khonsu II himself…or rather, would be having a conversation with him via subspace radio. A significant percentage of the Vasudan Security Council would be listening in as well.

Still, this was an important day at the least, and he would finally get his answer. In a sense, the fate of humanity depended on it. Should the Shivans ever arrive, and if they had the ability to communicate with them…it might just be enough to avert a second great war with them. It would also mean that Bosch would finally be able to find out why the Shivans did what they did. Why they attacked humanity and the ancients. It was crucial to find answers to these questions, regardless of whether the Vasudans wished him to do so or not.

He looked at the reflection in the window, only to notice Ramayan pacing back and forth behind him. Bosch smiled a bit. The doctor was understandably nervous – hell, Bosch was a little nervous himself.

"Ramayan, you may want to quit pacing. For all we know, they are probably watching us to see how nervous we are." As if to prove his point, he nodded to his right, where on the ceiling a camera was watching them.

Ramayan simply snorted and replied, rather annoyed at Bosch's tone.

"Easy for you to say. You've probably met the high-flyers before, but not me. This is the first time I'm going up to anyone above Admiral Level. What's worst is that of all the ministers and council members out there, I had to get Khonsu II. Bloody hell, I mean, Khonsu II, he's -"

"-Just another Vasudan." Bosch interrupted. To Bosch, Khonsu II was just another obstacle to overcome in his mission here, and just another Vasudan. The Vasudans overall had caused too much trouble for him already, so he was somewhat used to it. Fortunately for him, he wasn't the only one who felt this way…although they were others that he had met throughout his service, others that still held the old rivalries and hatred from the war before. He had used this to form a backup of sorts, should his endeavors here ever be stopped. But it was a backup that Bosch prayed that he would never, ever have to use. Especially not here, and especially not now.

Looking in the window, he noticed the door open in the reflection, revealing the reason why he feared using it here.

The door opened the reveal a middle-aged woman, several years younger to Bosch. Yet several features were strikingly similar, including the round, broad chin and the long face. She was in dress uniform as well, the rank of Captain adorning the epaulets on her shoulders. The uniform hid her form well; one that did not belie her true age, or size for that matter. She was nearly a full head shorter than Bosch. But this never deterred her, and she nearly always beat him at unarmed combat anyway. What was the most striking feature, however were the eyes. Her eyes were an unnatural green color, standing out from the rest like the eyes of the Cheshire cat in the fairy tales of old. It was a rarity, a genetic oddity, to say the least. It was what made Jessica Bosch the most special sister anyone could ask for.

As she entered, she looked around for Bosch and spotted him near the window. Bosch, for his part, ignored her as she walked up to him, pretending to focus on something past the window itself. She was right behind him less than two seconds later, her footfalls almost inaudible against the carpeting. That was another unique thing about her – her capacity for stealth, which was probably the reason why the spooks in the GTVI had taken her in almost readily. Had it not been for the window or the reflection, Bosch would have never spotted her coming. And as he observed, Ramayan barely had time to react as well.

But unlike in the past, this time he caught her. Just before she could tap him on the shoulder, he sidestepped to the right, causing her to instead tap on the glass window. He turned around, giving her a smug grin and a low whisper.

"Nice try, captain, but no cigar." He said, poking fun at his sister's lower rank.

"Very funny, Admiral, but it looks like someone missed the last bulletin on the yearly stealth and self-defense courses that they were supposed to take up." Jessica spat back.

"Oh is that so?" he replied, laughing. His sister never failed to cheer Bosch up. It was something about her…an aura perhaps, something that lightened up the people around her.

She just shook her head before punching him in the arm. Bosch grimaced in pain for a second, before taking a step back.

"Ow! What was that for?" He asked, frowning.

"For never sending me and dad any messages! Both of us were wondering where the hell you had disappeared to – for a while we thought you actually were AWOL, with all the rumors flying about the Admiralty."

Bosch frowned. It was true, at least, he had neglected both his sister and his father during the past five years – but it was not like they kept much in contact anyway, especially after his father was shuffled out to some project beyond his level of clearance.

"That would be fine if I could find dad again. Don't know where he went after that posting – and the GTVI clearly don't like my level of clearance enough to tell me for that matter." He replied, perhaps hoping to gleam a bit of information from Jessica.

"Oh, really?" She smirked, placing her hands on her hips. She always did that when she knew something Bosch didn't – and she liked to always make him jealous of that fact…or at least, try to.

"I take it you know something of where he went?" Bosch asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Well. Maybe…." she rolled her eyes, looking to one side. She looked around and glanced at the Doctor. Bosch was quick to interject.

"Don't worry about the Doctor; he can keep a secret…none of this concern him anyway." He whispered, and then led to the near seat. Jessica immediately started speaking.

"Ok, from what I can tell, it turns out dad's been posted to some new construction project. It's something huge – apparently command has decided its good enough to spend a hell of a lot of cash on it. From what Dad's told me (and he isn't allowed to say much) it's a new type of Destroyer based on that new Hecate class – can you imagine? They just roll out those new ships and they want to make something better. Anyways, from what he tells me, it's something like your work on the Iceni – something entirely new and fantastic, and he's been given command of it."

Bosch was intrigued…he had suspected that the admiralty was working on new ship designs, but a variant of the Hecate? This was interesting to say the least….not to mention somewhat worrying. He pressed on for more information.

"Hmm...Interesting…any idea what is it called?" Bosch asked.

Jessica nodded her head. "Yes…apparently they are calling it the Colossus, or something like that."

Now this really caught Bosch's interest.

"Wait – isn't that the same name for the – "

"- failed super-ship? Yes, it is – good catch there bro." Jessica interrupted. "They abandoned that project a long time ago though; nothing's left of it except a hulk. One of the greatest failures of the GTVI, supposedly. But I guess that's what you get when you try to combine Terran and Vasudan ship designs – they simply aren't compatible enough to allow that kind of a monstrosity to exist."

Bosch knew very well what Jessica was referring to. Around 15 years ago, the GTVI had attempted to embark on a project – a new 'super ship' as it were, that would outclass even the heftiest Destroyer. It was supposedly intended to be a Juggernaught sized vessel, one that could take on the Lucifer with ease. Tons of funding had been poured into it – only to disappear into what was now a lifeless hulk residing in some system under the GTVI's control. The report had been declassified to Admiral Level a while ago, although certain people working in the GTVI were privy to the report as well. The ship was supposed to herald a new coming for mankind, but unfortunately enough problems had crept in that the project was eventually abandoned. To hear that the name had been re-used for this new project though…it was surprising, to say the least. The GTVA rarely, if ever, recycled ship or project names. He let it slip for the moment though – it would be something he would deal with when it came out.

"I see…well, I guess we'll see when it comes out. Which reminds me…what exactly are you doing here?" Bosch asked, realizing that of all the people he had expected to see, Jessica was probably the last.

"I should be asking you the same question, but word travels fast, and I already know that. As for what I am doing here…"

She punched him in the arm again.

"I work here. I was posted here around a year ago…but noooo, big brother had too many things to do to ask his little sister where she was posted." She said, folding her arms.

Bosch raised his arms, as if surrendering. "All right, all right! I admit it, I'm not a perfect brother. Doesn't mean you have to punch me though."

Before Jessica could reply though, the door opened again. A young female lieutenant came through. Bosch recognized her as the secretary that had helped them set up the meeting. She nodded at Bosch. It was time.

Bosch turned to Jessica, looking at her in the eyes.

"I am here for a conference with Khonsu II. What happens here pretty much decides my future for now. I wish I could explain it to you, Jessica, but please promise me that you will wish me good luck." He said, averting his eyes, turning back to the Iceni that hung outside the window. Jessica seemed puzzled by this, but realized that Bosch was probably going in for a tough meeting. She slowly nodded.

"Brother…Aken…good luck. Come back and tell me how it went before you leave, ok? Whether you succeed or not, we still have a lot to catch up to, you know."

Bosch didn't look back at her.

"Jessica...please…I beg of you…pray that I do not fail – for if I do, it could just mean the end of us all." Bosch simply turned, heading out the door, the doctor in tow, leaving his very puzzled and very worried sister behind.

Two Hours Later

Location: Iceni Bridge

The lift doors opened, revealing the bridge of the Iceni to both Admiral Bosch and Doctor Ramayan. Several meters in width and length, the bridge was outlined by consoles and displays, some showing various ship systems while others showing the status of the local space around them. The bridge itself was divided into two levels, with the highest point being at the elevator. It extended into the middle of the bridge, where the captain's seat was being occupied by Gibson. On either side, the floor sloped downwards to the bottom level, where all the crews worked and the majority of the important stations were present. To either side were doors – the right being the captain's room, while the left was the toilet. The position allowed for a good overview of the entire operation as well as keeping ship control tight. It was pretty much the standard layout for vessels cruiser sized and below. However, for corvettes and upwards, it differed greatly.

But the Iceni wasn't a corvette – it was a frigate, something more than a cruiser, definitely. It had several extra panels, including an XO's chair to the right-rear of the captain as well a station for Flight Control Officers to his left. The FCO's were supposed to act as auxiliaries to those stationed on destroyers; they were capable of controlling most fighter wings in the field, and had the ability to take over instantly and keep the situation cool.

Bosch on the other hand was anything but cool…he was fuming, almost raging. He stormed into the bridge and down the right. He bother to look at anyone, and instead, shouted to nobody in particular.

"Gibson! You, Sargo and Venson in my room, in FIVE minutes! Tell John and Sarno I want all wings on silent alert; and prepare the special line for usage. Dr. Ramayan, you come with me as well. All stations are to standby silent alert – set us on a course to the node!"

With that, he simply paced quickly into the room, nearly letting his rage take over, but Bosch controlled himself. He couldn't afford to loose control – especially not in front of his crew. He walked the length of the sparse room and took his seat at the table. He opened a drawer underneath the table when the door opened again, and the Doctor stepped through.

"Bosch…" the Doctor whispered.

"What?" he asked, the anger seething into voice.

"Don't do it..." Ramayan whispered.

Bosch looked at him and then stood up, banging his fist on the table, surprising even Ramayan. He had never been this angry before – not even in front of his family.

"And why shouldn't I! You heard the emperor! That bastard's going to charge us all for treason, and for what? Trying to save their puny little hides!"

Now he had had it. He almost completely lost control, the frustration, the anger reading intolerable levels. Bosch was yelling almost, uncaring of whether he could be heard or not past the soundproofing in the door.

"I just spent the last god-damn fucking year trying to get clearance to get onto that planet. I went from one end of the GTVA to the other – all for their sake, not mine. We don't need much – just some fricking data! And now they want to CHARGE us for Treason? Not only that, they dare to threaten me to take away this ship? This ship that I have spent five years building?"

Bosch paused for a second, looking down. He clenched his fist in anger before looking right back up and continuing.

"I have gone too far, done too much and given up too much to let this stop here and now. Too much is at stake – and from what I can see, the Vasudans are going to stop at nothing to make sure we don't step foot on that wreckage."

He reached down into the drawer and pulled out something. He stood at attention, turning around and examining it. It was a hat, black and of similar design to the official captain's hat he was wearing now…however, there were some key differences.

"I'm sorry Doctor, but the Vasudans have clearly shown to me that the GTVA is no longer trustable, leaving this as our only option."

The door chimed, indicating the others had arrived.

"Enter!" Bosch shouted. The doors opened, revealing Gibson, Sargo and Venson, who piled into the room as fast as they could. They stood at attention in front of the door, waiting for Bosch.

Bosch did not keep them waiting long however. He turned around, and placed the hat on the table. He noticed all of them tensing up when they saw the hat…they all knew what it meant…it was time.

"At ease, gentlemen. Before I continue, I will need a status update from each of your departments, and I need it now. Gibson, you go first."

Gibson nodded, standing at ease.

"All crew stations report ready for general quarters and combat. As far as they know, its just another drill. We've got all those who will…'remain'…. to separate sections of the ship, and near arms in the case something unexpected breaks out."

"Excellent. Deploy all those who aren't staying into the escape pod and send them on a course to the nearest system. We don't need any extra casualties today. Venson, how are the engines and the weapons?" Bosch replied, and then snapping his attention to Venson.

Venson nodded.

"She's running perfectly fine sir. The reactor's running smoothly, but this is her first actual trail, so I don't know exactly how much she can take. Weapons are ready at your disposal, and the SIF is ready for deployment on your command."

"Good work Venson. Sargo, how many wings do we have that will stay with us? And re-enforcements?"

Sargo cleared his throat before replying.

"Sir…its not good on that front. Only John's and Sarno's wings are ready. We've got a few ships outside the system at the other end of the node that are willing to help us, but once the crackers start to burst, I'd think that the GTVI will close the door, if you know what I mean. We'll need some way to secure a path from Deneb into Vega so that Koth can bring the Repulse in. However, we've got the GTC Rampart, the GVC Amenti the GVCv Anouke and the GTCv Golem patrolling the system right now. More are in Deneb and Capella at the moment, but we've got forces there that can deal with them. The closest forces are the Majestic, the Impervious, the Belisarius and Koth's Repulse. All are on standby to aid us, but there is a good chance most of them will end up being too closely involved in the battle."

"I see…." Bosch replied. He looked down at the hat again and paused…now that he was more calm and able to concentrate, he considered his options…there had to be another way out of this; another way without bloodshed…without such violence…

He looked back up, realizing that there was no other way. He looked at each one of the men gathered. Each was ready to give up their lives for him…for his dream. Each knew exactly why he was doing this, and fortunately for him, there wasn't a better crew he could ask for to back him up.

"Gentlemen…first let me tell you, there is no finer crew that I can have at my side while I make this decision. Unfortunately, circumstances have proven to me that there is no other option but the one that I am forced to take now. But I don't need to drag all of you in it either – each one of you has family to consider, as well as what may happen to them should this go through. I want each and every one of you to think this through carefully. If you do not wish to be a part of this, do not berate yourself over it, or think any less of yourselves. You all are soldiers, but you are all also human. As your commanding officer, it is my duty to make sure to look after your welfare and your concerns. So if you have any problems with the plan, and wish to back out, say so now. I intend for each one of you to go and inform your departments as well as those crew who wish to come with me. Either choose now and go to the GTVA in peace, or stick along for the entire ride. There will be no turning back once the decision is made, is that understood?"

All the personnel nodded. They understood it quite clearly.

"Excellent…the Vasudans have made it clear that not only will they take me out, but most possibly will repossess this ship as well. We cannot allow such a thing to occur. Announce it on general quarters and immediately evacuate all the non-essential personnel. Prepare a channel to me, system-wide as well as throughout the GTVA. Then I want all of you to leave this room and disseminate the message…and then make your choice. You know where the escape pods are – they'll be open for the next ten minutes. After that, there will be no second chance, no going back. Dismissed."

All three nodded and returned back to attention. They saluted the Admiral and then left….except for the Doctor. He simply looked sadly at Bosch. Ramayan shook his head and spoke softly, as if pleading with Bosch.

"Bosch…don't do it…please…there has to be another way."

Bosch looked down, avoiding Ramayan's gaze.

"I wish there were Ramayan. But you were in the room with me – you heard what they said. There simply is no option."

"There has to be. Don't you realize what you will be doing if you go ahead? Thousands could die – probably millions – and it would all be because of me….because of some stupid data that we need to finish the project." He spat out the last word.

Bosch was at first silent…and then he slowly began to chuckle…and then laugh. This irritated Ramayan, who lashed out and shouted. "What's so funny? Does my predicament seem humorous to you?"

"You think they want to do this because of you, Doctor?" Bosch simply replied back, an evil smile on his face. Before the Doctor could reply though, he continued.

"The only people who know why this is really starting are you, me, and the three men that stepped in here. As far as everyone else is concerned though, there is a different reason."

He got up, walking towards the nearby window. He stopped, looking out at the blackness of space. He continued to speak all the while, not looking at the doctor.

"I haven't started anything, Doctor. What I am doing is merely pushing what is already there. The hatred for the Vasudans, the old scars that were left behind…they already existed. It is merely a matter of time before it builds up enough to explode. I have merely pushed it along…at least, with my influence, I can control it to a limited degree…soften its impact while such a thing is still possible…"

"Millions will still die, you can't deny that – you can't possibly want that." Ramayan retorted.

Bosch looked at Ramayan, the features of his face changing to anger again.

"Ramayan…my sister is on that station – my sister. You think I want to attack her? My own flesh and blood? You think I want to hurt her for some stupid data? Unless you've forgotten, what we have worked for here will save far more than the millions that will die from what is about to happen. I do this not because I want to harm her, but because if I don't, a lot of other brothers, sisters, parents, entire families will die when the Shivans return for us. It is this, or extinction, my friend, and unlike the Ancients that suffered that fate, what we are doing here today, will ensure that such a fate will not befall humanity, so don't you dare tell me that I want this to happen. I know the monster that is going to be unleash upon humanity, but compared to the monster that now hunts us, I have little choice in the matter."

The doctor took a step back, obviously not expecting this kind of an answer. Bosch pressed on, not stopping.

"The choice is now yours. Choose now doctor, for we cannot wait forever! If you think that it is a difficult decision to make, then realize that the one I made was even harder, and what I loose is everything!"

He looked at the Doctor, straight in the eye, before continuing.

"So choose, doctor. Either way, it is your decision to make – I can't force you to make it in anyway. I wish I could give you an eternity to decide, but sorry, I just can't. You have ten minutes, just like the rest of the men, just like the rest of this crew. Decide, Ramayan - do you wish to stay here and fight for humanity, or do you wish to go back and fight alongside the rest of it?"

The Doctor looked away, and out the window. He visibly gulped. Silence held the room for several minutes as both men stood there. Bosch did not move, did not once falter. He simply waited for Ramayan's reply. This was one man Bosch couldn't afford to loose, but this was also one man he could not force into staying. Everything he had said till was now was true – there was no way he could decide for the man.

Finally, after nearly two minutes. He spoke. His tone was soft, quite, conceding defeat.

"The greater good always wins…I will stay, Bosch. But you sure as hell better goddamn hope your quest is for real, cause either way you will have become a butcher of innocents."

With that, the Doctor simply turned around and walked out the door, not giving Bosch a chance to reply.