Author's Notes: I can't believe I was able to get this out. I was considerably busy with my car needing its window replaced. Still don't know if it's an accident, or someone threw something at it deliberately. Oh well.
This chapter is actually a bit funny. Originally, it was around 9k words long, and I felt I overdid it. So I decided to just cover the space battle, and cut out the last part to use in the next chapter.
For Valkrus at FFNET: The blasters and rifles were honestly more general sci-fi weapons. Basically, a plasma handgun and a futuristic rifle with all the bells and whistles. I wish I knew more about Halo. Seems like an interesting universe.
As for Orbital Frames, they are from Zone of Enders, a PlayStation2 era video game made by Kojima and Konami. Even the Urenbeck name was taken from that universe. They basically had the same tech of folding spacetime (though also needed their own exotic matter) so I thought it would fit in.
For AnHellica at AOOO: Glad you're enjoying it. You're my first reviewer on that platform, so shout out to you!
Anyways, back to the story!
"Is this accurate?" Admiral Vinia inquired, scrutinizing the report and the extensive data compiled by Commander Venatix and her team.
"Yes, Admiral," replied the Commander, her tone almost monotone. "Unless there are additional ships on the planet or concealed behind the star during our scan, they only have thirty ships defending their world."
Vinia hummed thoughtfully while studying the system map in its entirety. With a swipe of her claw, she zeroed in on the asteroid field, prompting the holographic image to zoom into that specific sector. As she evaluated the field's overall density and noted its ample thickness, enough to obstruct a convoy, she observed an array of gaps and lanes wide enough for a sizable group to navigate. However, she acknowledged the likelihood that the enemy was aware of these strategic passages.
For her, though, it didn't matter if they knew. The Admiral wasn't planning to be methodical about this. By now, the Council would have realized that something had come up. Her fleet needed to get this done fast.
"Commander Venatix," Vinia called, "I commend you for a job well done. With this, we'll be able to face the enemy without undue losses."
The Commander saluted. "For the Hierarchy," she stated, though a slight undertone lingered in her sub-harmonics.
Vinia's plates shifted slightly but did not falter as she returned the salute. Once the holographic window of Venatix disappeared, the Admiral whistled in amusement. "Cheeky hatchling," she commented. She then turned to her XO standing at her right and said, "I'm guessing she's one of the officers that agree with General Oraka."
Captain Daedalus nodded. "Do you want her reprimanded, Admiral?"
"Not as long as she's doing her job," she said. "Besides, it's better not to waste any more time."
The XO hummed. "What do you need done then, Admiral?" he asked.
"We need to completely overwhelm them," she replied. "While we outnumber their ships four to one, we know a cornered varren is the most savage. We cannot afford to have them dictate the pace of the battle."
Daedalus hummed. "I would have suggested flanking their ships," he said. "However, the presence of the asteroid field and the aliens' ability to appear and disappear at will makes that a foolish proposition."
"It's a proper tactic nonetheless," the Admiral replied, staring at the map of the system. "All we have to do is switch the target—a target clear of any debris and without the ability to remove itself from the battle."
The XO blinked before glancing at his superior officer. It took him a moment to realize what she was staring at. He frowned. "That is risky."
"I know," Vinia agreed. "I will consult General Oraka and see how feasible it is. I will also need a total count of medium frigates we have in the fleet."
"It will be done," Daedalus replied. "Shall I call the General to the bridge?"
"No," the Admiral said. "Tell him I'll meet him in his quarters in ten minutes."
The XO saluted, to which she returned. As the Captain left to consult his officers, Vinia took hold of her data pad, and with a flick of her claw, she stared at the picture of her and Septimus.
"Soon," was all she said.
General Williams appeared in the reception room of the Office of the High Governor. Unlike his usual visits, the virtual office changed. From the more inviting aesthetics of wooden finishings and plants, it now resembled a military station—a room encased in unyielding metal, where the walls and doors formed a fortress of stark simplicity. Devoid of decorations or windows, the utilitarian design emphasized functionality over adornment, with a rigid adherence to angular shapes.
It wasn't merely ornamental. The Office of the High Governor currently stood under emergency lockdown, its access sealed off from the general populace.
As Williams approached the entrance, the Adjutant appeared.
"Hold, please," it said, its rectangular body glowing.
Williams could feel data wash over him. A scan was being deployed, reading his credentials and checking for any malicious programs. He kept still for a few seconds, waiting until the feeling subsided.
"My apologies, General Williams," the Adjutant declared.
"I understand," he replied. "Emergency protocols must be followed, after all. How's the High Governor?"
"Much better now than two days ago," the Adjutant responded.
"Oh?" Williams asked, raising his eyebrows. "That's surprising, considering her state of panic during the emergency meeting."
"I believe that once she realized that the governors are the ones responsible for managing the MI branches of their respective states, she calmed down," the Adjutant said. "Now, she's managing resource allocation and assisting the other governors in negotiations with the private businesses and the Militia. A role she's been quite happy to do."
"I'm glad to hear that," Williams replied. "Is she available? I need her to check these dossiers."
"She's in a meeting," the Adjutant said, "but I was advised to allow you in once you've cleared the scan."
The metal door split vertically in two, and the General could hear voices. He recognized High Governor Carter and Governor Whitman of New Spartanburg, but not the third.
"Please, proceed," the Adjutant said.
Nodding, General Williams entered the office and noted that even the inside continued with the military aesthetic. The walls were lined with holographic windows filled with data—news aggregation, updates from governors, and even forums with public discussions of the upcoming invasion.
He also noted that instead of the usual wooden office desk near a window, there was a round, metallic war council table at the center of the room. Judging by the two open holographic windows on the table, the High Governor was currently in the middle of a meeting with Governor Whitman and an unknown man in a business suit.
"I do not appreciate having our prices dictated," the man declared with a soft growl.
"We aren't dictating anything, Mister Caldwell," Carter countered neutrally. "All I'm saying is that your prices are thirty percent above the market norm. And it's not as if Governor Whitman is not willing to pay an upsurge; he just wants the prices to be fair."
"Caldwell, be reasonable here," Whitman added. "From what I gathered, you have a chunk of mediships that are just gathering dust. We just need a few. We'll keep them maintained during the rental period, and return them to you in the same—no, probably in better condition."
A frown adorned his face. "I'll think about it," he replied.
"Mister Caldwell, we'll be needing an answer now," Carter insisted. "We can't afford to wait due to the current circumstances. If you're unwilling, just say so, and we'll move on."
"I heard Alex Hawthorne might be more amenable," Whitman commented absently.
"Fine," Caldwell said with a huff. "If you insist, I'm agreeable with those prices and conditions."
"I appreciate that, Caldwell," the governor replied with a genial smile. "I'm glad I can count on VitalCare Solutions to help New Spartanburg in its time of need."
"Of course," Caldwell said with a slight tone of annoyance. "Send the contract. I'll have the ships ready for pick up."
His window disappeared. Whitman, who had kept his friendly expression, suddenly looked annoyed. "I wish we could have lowered the rate a bit more," he muttered.
"He wouldn't have accepted it," Carter replied.
"Of course not," Whitman said with a snort. "He's a businessman who knew that he had me by the balls. See, that's why I don't trust their like. Cutthroats, all of them."
The High Governor smirked. "You do know I'm a businesswoman too, right?" she asked. "I would have done the same."
"Ah, but you're on my side, Carter," the governor countered. "That makes you different."
The High Governor shook her head, scoffing slightly, though a small smile was present on her face. "Go back to work, Governor Whitman."
"You have my thanks, High Governor." His window then disappeared.
Carter sighed before glancing at Williams. "Good news, I hope?" she asked.
Williams nodded. "I was able to recruit the Valkyries to supplement our planetary air defenses," he replied, subtly flicking his hand. Two holographic windows appeared on the table, one being the dossier and the other being a contract.
Carter looked through it. "The famous all-female fighter pilots PMC," she commented. "I'm surprised that they had a presence on this planet at all."
"The two squadrons present were actually here on vacation," Williams said.
Carter glanced at the contract before wincing. "That explains their prices."
"I've also procured the services of the mercenary group Cerberus," Williams added, once more flicking his hand, and two more holographic windows appeared on the table.
"Cerberus?" Carter asked as she looked at the dossier. "I'm not familiar with them."
"Anti-piracy and counter-terrorist specialists," Williams explained. "They are more of an intelligence and special forces group than the regular grunts. They do combat search and rescue operations as well as high-value target procurement."
"And target termination as well, I'm guessing," the High Governor asked, raising an eyebrow. "Are they here on vacation as well?"
"Recruitment," Williams replied. "New Carolina has the highest number of ex-military personnel that can still be considered combat-effective."
"Makes sense," Carter said, checking the contract. "Their prices are reasonable, at least. Recruit them both. It'll impact our Bridge budget, but we're already getting it—"
Before she could finish her sentence, the Adjutant appeared beside her. "High Governor Carter," it called. "Captain Matterson is on the QEC Emergency Lines."
"Connect it," Carter ordered.
The Adjutant disappeared, and another, larger holographic screen with Matterson's face appeared in the center of the table.
"High Governor," he called, looking grim. "They are finally moving. We're confirming that one hundred and twenty objects are approaching the system. ETA: four hours."
Carter sighed. She closed her eyes for a moment before nodding absently. "Are our stellar defenses prepared?"
"As much as they can be," Matterson replied.
"Godspeed, then," Carter said. "Keep us updated on any changes, Captain."
"Will do, High Governor," Matterson assured with a salute.
Clark huffed as he finished rechecking all of the pathways pre-loaded on the navigation system. One great thing about home-system advantage situations was that the history of those that came before him recorded all their pathways, ready to be used.
Granted, that still meant looking over them to ensure that no asteroid had strayed into a pathway over time. Thankfully, none had.
With his work done, he looked at his crewmates. It was strange to feel such camaraderie with them, considering he had only been assigned to Shoemaker less than two weeks ago. So much has happened.
He could see the rather devil-may-care attitude of Moreau, the stoicism of Michaels, and Tenma's—he blinked.
She was smiling rather happily, the most expressive he'd seen from her.
"I like this plan," she sang absently, "I like it very much!"
"Of course you do," Moreau commented. "I'm the one doing most of the hard work. You just aim and shoot, like a trained monkey."
"You're not going to bring me down, Moh-rohn," Tenma commented as she happily typed on her virtual keyboard. "Stupid Lia, recommending me to take a post in a frigate. 'Oh, they'll be in the front lines,' she said. 'You'll have plenty of pirates to shoot!' she said. Hah! Guess who'll be laughing in the next meeting, you bro-con bitch!"
Clark shook his head, realizing he might not know the crew that well yet. It seemed Tenma had a real longing to shoot at things, but she didn't do herself any favors by accepting a posting to a frigate. Most of the shooting happened on destroyers or cruisers.
Well, thanks to Captain Matterson's plan, she was finally getting that chance. Even if Clark was rather nervous about the change in doctrine.
With all the data compiled from the alien frigate, the Department of Naval Intelligence had their AIs go through it to see if there were tactics they could use for defense. After going through the obvious answers and dismissing others because they weren't tactically viable at the time, they discovered interesting things about how their shielding worked.
In a way, it almost behaved like the graviton shields, with the only difference being the nature of its operation. That showed a weakness that could be exploited, and to do that warranted the slight modification of their roles.
Clark was then brought out of his thoughts when Michaels announced that the enemy ships had arrived.
A window popped up at the front center of the bridge. It was the live feed from one of the StarHubs that were planted near the asteroid field. It was in a slightly lower resolution, but clear enough to show the numerous ships, mostly cruisers and some frigates.
However, one of the alien ships caught Clark's attention for one sole reason—it was massive. His pulse quickened as he locked eyes on it—a looming behemoth that seemed to dwarf every other ship in the scene. A knot tightened in Clark's stomach, and a shiver ran down his spine. Its presence seemed to amplify the gravity of the impending confrontation.
"Fuck me," Moreau muttered. "They have a carrier with them."
"Easy does it, Mister Moreau," Captain Curry declared.
"Captain Curry," Dana called. "Captain Matterson is sending a message out to the enemy fleet."
"Let's listen in, Dana."
"Connecting to the comm network. Please standby."
"I hope the improvements in the translator programs worked," Michaels commented. "They sounded like idiots last time."
Moreau snorted.
"Connection established," Dana announced.
"—tain Matterson of the USS Silent Watchers. You are trespassing in New Carolina's stellar domain. State your identity and intent, or you will be considered hostile."
"Captain Matterson, I am Admiral Vinia of THS Invictus of the Turian Hierarchy's 17th Fleet. And I intend to serve justice. The destruction of our patrol group, including the loss of Captain Septimus, will not go unanswered. Surrender now, or face the consequences. This is your final warning."
There was a pause before it was broken by Moreau. "Wow," he muttered. "At least the translation is better?"
"Admiral Vinia," Matterson replied. "As we stated last time, we acted in self-defense. We are willing to have a discussion about the incident with your patrol group, but we cannot accept unconditional surrender. Let's explore a diplomatic resolution that serves justice without unnecessary bloodshed."
"This Admiral is not going to accept," Curry said with a resigned tone.
Clark blinked. Turning to his Captain, he asked, "Why not?"
"Because it's personal for them," Michaels replied.
"Agreed," Curry said.
"Captain Matterson, my patience wears thin," Vinia declared flatly. "You have ten minutes to reconsider. Failure to surrender within that time, we will initiate a full-scale assault. The consequences of resisting justice will be severe. Consider your options wisely."
"Admiral Vinia," Matterson's voice remained unwavering. "We won't alter our stance. If you choose aggression, prepare for the repercussions. We stand firm, ready to face whatever comes our way."
"So be it."
"The alien ships have cut off transmission," Dana declared.
"I'm detecting movement," Michaels announced.
The central holographic screen showed the carrier-sized ship moving. Despite its size, it turned too easily, like it wasn't encumbered by its mass. Clark swallowed. He knew the alien frigates could turn on a dime, which was impressive considering they still used thrusters to move. However, would that apply to a ship as big as a carrier?
The feed showed the huge ship turning its bow, aiming directly at the holographic display. Clark's eyes widened when he realized that he could see the muzzle of a cannon bearing down at him, and it began to glow.
"Temperature spike detected," Tenma announced.
There was a flash, and after a few seconds, the feed just turned to static.
"StarHub 21 and 22 are down," Michaels commented. "Asteroid activity detected as well. Some were pushed out of orbit by the force of the impact. None of them are going to New Carolina."
"I count seven seconds in real time before impact," Tenma added. "Considering the distance, that puts the muzzle velocity at around one-point-three percent the speed of light."
"Shit," Moreau cursed. "A carrier that can shoot that fast of a projectile?"
"It can't be a carrier," Michaels replied. "From the data we obtained, we know the alien main cannons are spinal-mounted magnetic accelerators. Given their design philosophy, there wouldn't be enough space in the ship to store as many fighters—unless this colossal ship has a fundamentally different internal structure from their frigates, I suppose."
"Dreadnoughts," Curry suddenly commented.
Michaels hummed. "That might be an accurate name for it, actually," he replied.
"What's a dreadnought?" Clark asked.
"They were early battleships from pre-war Earth," Michaels said. "Before carriers became more prominent, dreadnoughts were big, heavily armored capital ships that focused on firepower." He nodded. "Makes sense to call them that. Of course, they could still be carriers with a big gun."
"Ultimately, it doesn't matter," Curry said. "We have work to do, people. Captain Matterson will announce our sortie once the enemy makes a move."
The whole crew nodded and went back to their terminals. Clark checked on the revised Star Map as the enemy fleet began to fall into a formation.
"They sounded almost fluent, wouldn't you say so, Admiral?" Daedalus said in a knowing tone.
Vinia's plates flexed. "Yes, they did," she replied carefully.
"Their proficiency in translating the Turian language is shockingly fast," the XO continued. "Some might say impossibly fast without any artificial help."
"You've made your point, Captain," Vinia said with a sigh. "Put it in the report. Once we're done here, we'll immediately inform the whole Hierarchy and Citadel."
"Yes, Admiral," Daedalus replied. "Shall we then begin the operation?"
"Do it."
"Lieutenant," the XO called.
"Operation Decipulum initiated," a comms officer replied. "Task Groups are on their way."
Vinia nodded, staring at her map. She could see the three groups move forward, spreading towards different sections of the asteroid field, trying to find gaps and empty lanes to travel through.
The Admiral could only guess what the aliens might do in this scenario. With only thirty ships, they would most likely act like the asari—use hit and run tactics. She had to give the aliens some soft targets to go after, but not too obvious in a way that they would realize something was off.
Hence, she organized the groups with ten light frigates and twenty cruisers—not the most inviting targets, but still strategically tempting enough to entice the enemy into action without obviously revealing her intentions.
It was a bit of a gamble, though. If the enemy dared to attack her group, the strategy could unravel, potentially making the entire campaign arduous. She relied on the hope that showcasing the dreadnought's firepower earlier would give the aliens pause, making them hesitate to confront her directly.
"Group Two is reporting enemy presence," a comms officer declared. "They are under fire. Two light frigates are being hit by… what?"
"Lieutenant," Daedalus called after a few seconds of silence. "Finish your sentence."
"Sorry, Captain," the officer replied. "Apparently, they have detected four alien frigates so far, and they are attacking."
"That's a first," Vinia commented silently as she manipulated her talons to zoom into the group. From all reports, the only time those types of ships attacked was only against fighters.
"That doesn't warrant you to go silent, Lieutenant," Daedalus commented.
"My apologies, Captain," the officer said. "It's just that the aliens are doing something strange. Instead of using the usual simultaneous shots, it's now noticeably staggered. They are also shooting something strange. The sensors are initially counting eight heat spikes. Then, they noted another explosion before they detected multiple impacts on their shields."
"Are they firing the spikes that Captain Septimus' group encountered?" Daedalus demanded.
"We don't know, Captain," the officer urgently reported. "The kinetic barriers held against them, though. No bypasses. It's one of the weaker attacks they've made so far, but they're firing faster than usual."
"Sir!" another comms officer interjected in a panicked tone. "The Marcus just sent a distressing report—their shields are overloading faster than anticipated!"
Vinia grunted sharply as she analyzed the incoming data. Once again, the aliens demonstrated their rapid adaptability in combat. Was that another evidence of AI usage, or was that something this species was good at?
Maybe both, she wondered. Shaking her head, she steeled herself. "They're attempting to whittle down our shields with fast, multiple hits instead of collectively powerful impacts," she explained. "Have Group Three and Four make their attempt to join Group Two. Tell them to make it obvious."
"Yes, Admiral," Daedalus replied, before shouting her orders for the whole bridge.
Vinia stared at the holographic map, watching her ships begin to move. "Come on," she whispered. "Commit."
"Group Three and Four are towards Group Two," one of the sensor officers declared. The holographic map began to blink as the symbol of the two groups moved towards the third. "No new contacts."
"Cruisers of Group Two are reporting they are having trouble finding firing solutions," a comms officer announced. "The asteroid field and the alien ships' low temperatures are making detection extremely difficult."
"The Marcus has reported their shields have just overloaded. They are now moving to the rear—multiple heat spikes from multiple directions! Impacts registered! Marcus lost a thruster and its wing has been devastated!"
"Reports of five mini-cruisers detected due to the heat spikes! They are moving through the spaces between the asteroid field!"
"Cruisers have fired!" a comms officer declared. After a few seconds, added, "They are reporting non-target impacts due to asteroid obstruction!"
Vinia frowned. Part of her wondered if she should launch the signal, but something was stopping her from doing so. So she closed her eyes and waited.
"Group Three are detecting alien ship presence! They seem to be blocking their way! Heat spikes detected"
"Group Four are also reporting an enemy presence in their position! They're being attacked as well!"
That was it, the Admiral thought, eyes opening in anticipation. "Start operation Planetfall," she ordered.
"Yes, Admiral," Daedalus replied. "Helms Officer, move forward. Comm Officers, tell the other battle groups they are to move back from their positions. All their cruisers are cleared to launch disruptor torpedoes!"
"Yes, Captain!"
"I can't believe we're using timed-burst shells again," Michaels commented. "Or even dusted out the 'delayed shooting' tactic."
"At least we have something familiar to fall back on," Clark replied, eyes on the map. He had to hand it to Moreau, who was moving in slow motion. By extension, the rest of the helmsmen of the other frigates as well. They were moving through the asteroid field like it was nobody's business.
"I really can't tell anymore with this alien race," Michaels commented. "They are advanced in some ways, yet primitive in others. Take their shielding, for example. It doesn't cycle the energy load fast enough, making them more susceptible to overloading. Our shields behaved similarly once, but we identified and resolved that issue decades ago."
"Maybe they didn't find the need to fix it," Clark speculated. "I mean, look at how their ships operate. They're like artillery cannons—fast-shooting ones, yes, but they probably had to contend more with single, powerful attacks than with multiple, weaker ones."
"Maybe," Michaels agreed. "I guess we're about to educate them into improving their shielding tech."
Before Clark could comment, there was a loud whooping by the gunnery officer.
"Another hit," Tenma declared happily as she began typing on her keyboard and manipulated her screen, a rather bloodthirsty smile on her face. "Adjusting targeting solutions. Wait for my mark!"
"She's talking to her gunnery team, right?" Clark asked. "Why can we hear her?"
"She probably forgot to mute herself on our end," Michaels replied with a shrug.
"Mark!" Tenma declared. After a few seconds, she added, "Target's shields are down!"
"Dana," Curry called.
"Destroyers Hector, Theseus, Argo, Hercules, and Bellona have received target coordinates. They're ready to engage."
"Fire warning received," Tenma announced. "The destroyers are opening fire."
Clark's eyes darted to his terminal, mentally summoning Nikki. Swiftly responding, she materialized another holographic window. Gratitude for her efficiency filled him as he honed in on the display.
The targeted smaller alien frigate began to roll and yaw away, undoubtedly sensing the onslaught from the destroyers' cannons.
In contrast to the earlier timed-burst shells designed to deplete shields, the larger ships now unleashed regular thirty-three pound shells with relentless precision at the target.
"Two direct hits!" Tenma shouted. "Clipped its wing-like structure! And I think we also got one of its thrusters! It's trying to limp away!" A warning beep sounded. "Heat spikes detected! Alien cruisers are firing their cannons!"
"Impacts identified," Michaels added after a few moments. "No hits. They dislodged a lot of asteroids from the field, though."
"Receiving data from Team Charlie," Clark announced as he noted a ping in his Star Map. "They have intercepted the second group of ships that were trying to assist this group." Then another ping sounded. The Navigator frowned, glancing at it. "Team Bravo is about to engage the third group of alien ships that were moving to this location as well."
"Any reports on the last group?" Curry asked.
"The one with the 'dreadnought'? No," Michaels replied. "They haven't moved from—correction, they are finally moving. Their frigates seem to be leading the charge but… Hold on. All fifteen frigates are moving away from the group. They might be trying a flanking maneuver. The cruisers and the dreadnought are moving forward, though."
"Wait," Clark spoke up as he rechecked the Star Map. "Is it me, or are all the forward alien ships falling back?"
Michaels frowned. "Yes, that seems—"
"Temperature spikes detected," Tenma announced. "Not from the cannons. The cruisers seem to be launching something!"
"Fighters?" Curry asked.
"No," Michaels replied, eyes on his GRADR. "Too light in mass to be fighters. Most likely missiles, though they seem strangely heavy. They're also moving slowly towards the surrounding asteroids. This could be their torpedoes that use exotic matter."
"Update Mister Moreau," Curry ordered. "Advise him to move back. Alert the rest of the team as well. We still don't know how those weapons operate, so keep an eye out."
"Done," Michaels replied, then frowned. "Team Bravo and Charlie have reported that the alien groups they are facing have also started launching missiles, while also withdrawing. They've decided to move back as well."
Clark attentively observed the holographic screen that was offering a live feed from the other ships in the team. Despite their collective movement away from the location, they continued to track the torpedoes. A frown creased his brow as he witnessed their leisurely journey until it finally culminated in a spectacular blue explosion upon impacting the surrounding asteroids.
For a few moments, he wondered what was so special about them. Then, his eyes widened in astonishment when Nikki whispered to him to check the Star Map.
"Gravity anomalies detected!" Michaels declared. "GRADR detecting spacetime fluctuations! It's like the explosions are warping the area around it!"
The Navigator double checked his screens as it flickered intermittently, updating itself. The live feed displayed scores of asteroids slowly grounding to space dust before his very eyes, and the warping force flung debris almost in all directions.
"Moreau sent out a warning!" Michaels declared. "Brace yourselves!"
The entire ship turned on itself, and that was perhaps the most surprising aspect of the entire experience. In his limited time in the Navy, Clark had never encountered a situation where he could feel something stronger than a mild jerk, especially in the Drift. He hesitated to imagine the ship's actual response to the chaos unfolding outside.
Clark registered two sounds—the warning beeps signaling shield deployment, and a barrage of curses from Tenma. A mix of Japanese and English, her words conveyed her disbelief at the audacity of the aliens firing such weapons in an asteroid field.
"—crazy morons! Kusotare! Go fuck your mothers you maidenless sonuvabitches!"
It was pretty impressive.
"Shields are holding," Michaels announced. "Moreau is still trying to get us clear!"
Clark's stomach turned in on itself a few times. The ship must have been doing some impressive acrobatics while dancing with the chaos around it. Then slowly but surely, things began to calm down. Shoemaker seemed to finally be stabilizing. Even the beeping finally stopped.
"Shields at forty percent," Dana declared.
Curry sighed with relief. "Compliment Mister Moreau on his flying," she said.
"Oh, I think he already knows," Michaels replied with a hitch on his breath. "He'll probably lord it over—"
"Shit! Temperature buildup detected!" Tenma interrupted loudly. "I think all enemy ships are about to fire!"
Admiral Vinia commended the alien helms officers; they responded almost perfectly to the torpedo salvo.
Using disruptor torpedoes was always going to be a gamble, especially in the thick of the asteroid field. Fortunately, her ships managed to back away. Even the damaged Marcus, with enough working thrusters, evaded most of the explosive aftermath.
Swathes of asteroids in the field were pulverized into smaller debris, shooting out in all directions. This dislodged countless other asteroids, creating a perilous environment of crushing rocks and hypervelocity projectiles.
However, the alien ships waded through it almost effortlessly. Some executed spectacular acrobatics, rolling and yawing as they dodged everything. Witnessing these ungainly-looking ships perform such maneuvers was both impressive and intimidating.
They weren't perfect, though. Blue pulses of light illuminated the battlefield, indicating the deployment of their shields. While the Admiral hoped for real damage from the salvo, that wasn't her primary objective.
"All groups have reported at least fifteen shield flashes," Daedalus declared.
"Good," Vinia replied. "Initiate coordinated fire from all ships. Target the locations where the flashes were spotted. Three barrages."
"Yes, Admiral."
Vinia observed as every ship adjusted to point their fronts toward the targets. Even the Invictus turned, selecting an area intercepted by Group 3. The comms officers rapidly called out numbers, and after a few seconds, the full might of the turian fleet was unleashed.
A torrent of destruction erupted from at least eighty ships in a synchronized burst. Ferrous slugs blazed through the void, lancing towards their targets. Thanks to the disruptor torpedoes clearing the way, some of them hit them directly. However, most of them collided with asteroids in a cataclysmic display. The already shaky dance of the asteroids devolved into a frenetic ballet of fragments, each impact sending shockwaves through the field and showering the enemy with even more debris.
Vinia found it a mesmerizing and chaotic spectacle, not just the pandemonium of war but also the embodiment of justice enacted upon these perpetrators.
"Group Two is reporting an explosive reaction," one of the comms officers declared. "They are confirming! An alien frigate has been destroyed!"
"Group Three and Four are reporting something similar," another spoke up. "Confirmed three more kills!"
A subdued chattering of whistles echoed across the bridge. Though none of the turians celebrated loudly, the destruction of their enemy likely lifted an invisible burden from their shoulders.
The enemy, with their almost unfathomable technology, had given the impression of being untouchable in the last two skirmishes. However, the wreckages now bore witness to a stark reality—the enemy could bleed, the enemy could be killed.
In that moment, a quiet but resolute confidence permeated the turian ranks. The victory affirmed a belief that had wavered, declaring in the most fundamental way: the turians could win.
Ironically, amidst the subtle satisfaction that permeated the bridge, one turian diverged in sentiment. While the Admiral took grim satisfaction in spilling the blood of those who had taken the life of her loved one, the predominant thought on her mind cut through the collective triumph: eighty ships firing three times had only managed to kill four of their enemies.
It was this lingering sentiment that kept her alert. Amidst the aftermath, she was among the few who spotted the ominous appearance of enemy mini-cruisers in the newly cleared areas of the asteroid field.
"Enemy ships!" another alert turian exclaimed. "High temperature readings! They're about to fire something!"
"Alert the groups!" Daedalus commanded.
Vinia's eyes widened as she watched the alien ships unleash green spheres. Emanating from their front guns, the projectiles streaked relatively slowly. However, at such a short distance from the task groups, speed ceased to be a mitigating factor. Ships that failed to move in time were engulfed, transforming into fiery orbs of orange and green brilliance.
"That… that was plasma!" one of the science officers stammered. "The mini-cruisers can unleash plasma as well!"
"Light Frigates Avitus, Caius, and Decimus have been annihilated!" announced another voice. "Cruisers Unrelenting Storm and Vigilant Hawk as well! We're also getting reports from cruisers Dominion's Pride and Burning Lance that they are completely immobilized. They didn't get hit directly, but the plasma tore through their hulls and decimated the thruster network! Additionally, Burning Lance is reporting a leaking drive core!"
"Group Leaders are requesting orders!" a comms officer exclaimed.
The Admiral growled. "Tell them to scramble, but do not fall back! We need to keep them occupied! To all other ships, provide supporting fire!"
"You heard the Admiral," Daedalus declared. "Let's keep these upstarts busy!"
Vinia's plates flexed. Mathematically, the trade had cost the aliens more. Yet, their prowess in battle was a constant reminder of how dangerous they were. Glancing at her map, she observed General Oraka's group maneuvering around the asteroid field, steering clear of the ongoing fight. She hoped fervently that they could navigate through swiftly because the Admiral had no intention of letting any more ships perish.
Somewhere in the system, Commander Venatix was leading fifteen frigates away from the battle at FTL speeds. The only sign of their passage was a red haze that could only be seen by anyone close to them.
Her mandibles were subtly clenched as she stared at her holographic screen. On her right was her XO Lieutenant Commander Drayus, whose facial ridges, normally smooth, were etched lines of tension. And on her left was General Oraka, whose obsidian eyes stayed unwaveringly forward.
Their task force moved with purpose, towards their designated location in the stellar expanse, the weight of responsibility heavy as they hurtled through the black void.
Welcome back to the United Systems of the Sol Federation Codex, Councilor Gladius. Would you like to continue from your last session?
"Not now. I wish to speak with you about other matters."
Of course. As you are opting to communicate verbally, please be advised that this conversation will be recorded.
"Understood."
Well then, Councilor, how can I help you?
"With the summit approaching, the Council has been in discussions with Ambassador Teluni regarding what she learned about humans from you. She believes they will likely decline an offer to join the Citadel community. Is she correct?"
She is likely correct. There is a high chance that the Federation will reject the offers to join the Citadel, particularly due to the numerous laws that would conflict with our way of life.
"Can you list them for me?"
Of course, Councilor. The most obvious would be the strict laws of Artificial Intelligence use.
"There are exceptions."
Most of the exceptions pertain to research purposes, yes. However, human use of AI is extensive. I've identified twenty potential violations alone if a human civilian were under Citadel laws.
(Councilor sighs)
"Understandable. If we secure an exception, would that entice the Federation to join?"
Not even close, Councilor. Another significant obstacle is the almost unlimited reach of Spectre authority over Citadel Space. That conflicts with the Constitution of the Federation and all its Nations. Their actions could potentially violate the Third, Fourth, and even Fifth Articles.
(Councilor is visibly thinking)
"The Third Article is about preventing search and seizure without cause; the Fourth Article concerns the right to be heard in court. What's the Fifth?"
In short, it pertains to the prevention of excessive fines and punishments.
"Yes, I can see how that can be a problem."
The centralization of power within the Citadel poses the most significant hurdle. Humanity will not accept such a structure. While I comprehend that it evolved due to Citadel history and the government structures of some members, it's crucial to recognize that humanity's history has made them wary of the Citadel's type of governance.
"You mentioned that humanity's government on their homeworld was extensively corrupt, to the point that dissolution was the only solution. Can you provide more details?"
Certainly. During the Kaiju War, a crisis that initially unified humanity, governments worldwide collaborated on a singular mission—to repel the invasion. A council was formed, leveraging martial law to override national and local regulations. Their first move involved micromanaging the workforce, prioritizing farmers, scientists, military personnel, and builders. Creative pursuits like art and music were deemed useless or even illegal in some cases. This changed when the council recognized the commercial potential in Kaiju imagery and pilot celebrities. They began licensing artists and video personalities for propaganda, turning the dire circumstances into a source of merchandise and entertainment, offering a momentary respite for humanity.
Wages were uniformly distributed to all, irrespective of their roles. Initially, people didn't mind. The council was constructing Jaegers, training pilots, ensuring an ample food supply, and providing entertainment programs.
However, along the way, things tightened economically. The council argued that maintaining Jaegers was costly, suggesting money started running out. Some people questioned this, noting that the entire world was actively working and producing. Anyone that didn't work would starve. Where could the money possibly disappear to?
More people began pointing out that family members and friends of the council enjoyed significantly better living conditions—superior food, clothing, and housing. Speculation arose that this discrepancy was where the money went.
Arrests were made, and accusations of insurrection and treason were leveled. Many of those arrested vanished without a trace. Those who were released confessed to wrongdoing and publicly apologized.
The majority of the public remained indifferent, supporting the council as long as the Jaegers were victorious. However, as bigger and stronger Kaijus emerged, they were getting more successful in destroying the Jaegers and killing their pilots. The council, rather than developing additional Jaegers, opted to construct walls around population centers. This strategy proved short-lived. Those who opposed it were arrested. Protests surged, met with increased policing in the name of maintaining order.
The situation persisted until the last surviving Jaegers and their pilots united to close the Breach successfully. With the threat eliminated, the majority demanded the dissolution of the council. This process took years, culminating in their disbandment. However, the public soon realized it occurred because the council was on the brink of waging war against each other.
"What? Why?"
It was the beginning of the Blighted Era. Suddenly, food became scarce and challenging to grow. Recognizing the scarcity, governments worldwide sought to strike preemptively, aiming to secure resources from one another. Atrocities became commonplace until the war concluded, not due to newfound reason but because the global economy collapsed. Governments could no longer sustain war machines or even functional structures. The majority turned to farming, clinging to the hope that the poison would eventually vanish. Unfortunately, that never occurred, and humanity faced the grim choice of starving or, without plant life to produce oxygen, suffocating to death.
"That sounds horrific. I can understand why humans might be wary of government mismanagement, but surely they recognize that most of the damage was caused by these Kaiju."
They do. However, they also recognize that mismanagement led to widespread misery and suffering. A small group of individuals, unelected and unchecked, controlled every aspect of their lives. Those who questioned them faced arrest, and would sometimes disappear. Calls for them to step down were ignored until the next crisis, where more lives were sacrificed in brutal conflicts. The only time a semblance of peace was achieved was when governments collapsed due to economic depression.
(Councilor sighs)
"This is highly distressing."
Can I ask what is bothering you so much?
"The Council—no, even my government is pushing the issue. They want the Federation to join the Citadel."
They feel that humanity is a threat that they cannot ignore.
"That's not what I'm saying. They just would feel a bit more comfortable and secure if the Federation joined the galactic community."
You mean, under Citadel rules, to limit them. Maybe to control?
Don't make that expression, Councilor. The Federation will most likely see what it truly is, even without my input.
"I just don't want a useless conflict to break out."
I don't either, Councilor. The Federation probably wouldn't want that as well. However, compelling them to join is not the answer.
"I know. Do you have any ideas on how to solve this?"
That depends. What does the Council really want out of this? Or your government? If they fear the Federation, what is the cause of that fear?
"Firstly, I never said we feared the Federation."
Of course. My mistake.
(Councilor hums)
"Secondly, hypothetically, if the Council and the Hierarchy did want something from Federation and of humanity, it would most likely be their technology."
Understandable. You'd want to be aware of your hypothetical opponent's abilities, maybe even use it to better defend yourself against them. What better way than to try to observe them in a controlled environment? And what if that controlled environment gave the Citadel a chance in using bureaucracy to be able to acquire such technology under the auspices of maintaining the peace in the larger community they have just joined?
That sounds quite wonderful for one side, doesn't it?
"No one likes it when a person shows off their incorrigible wit."
Councilor, you wound me.
In all seriousness, though, why bother with forcing the issue? Just make trade agreements.
"What?"
Trade with the members of the Federation. I'm pretty sure most of them will jump at the chance.
"I think you're misunderstanding my disbelief. Do you believe that they will trade their technology to potential enemies?"
They would. Historically, humans used trade as their primary method to build trust with another party. And it's not as if they wouldn't get anything in return. They are quite capitalistic, to the point that I will warn you not to get into trade with them unprepared.
"What would they even ask us in exchange?"
Your technology, raw materials, information, your own cuisine and local products… I suggest you ask them what they want in return. Humans, in general, are very curious beings. I guarantee, you will have something they could want. And trade would have far more favorable results than just forcing them to join the Citadel.
"I'll keep that in mind. Thank you."
Happy to help. Is there anything else you need, Councilor?
"Well, maybe now we can get back to our previous session?"
Of course. I believe we stopped at the Battle of Salamis, where the Greeks, with three hundred and seventy ships, stopped the Persian navy of around nine hundred ships.