Книга: Shadows of Olympus
Shadows of Olympus
Universe in Flames Book 6
Christian Kallias
Contents
Also by Christian Kallias
Acknowledgments
Copyright
Dramatis Personæ
The Story So Far
Prologue
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Chapter 16
Chapter 17
Chapter 18
Chapter 19
Chapter 20
Chapter 21
Chapter 22
Afterword
Also by Christian Kallias
Captain’s Log
Damocles Fall
About the Author
Also by Christian Kallias
The Universe in Flames Series
Book 1: Earth - Last Sanctuary (also available as an Audiobook )
Book 1.5: Ryonna's Wrath (Novella)
Book 2: Fury to the Stars
Book 3: Destination Oblivion
Book 4: The Beginning of the End
Book 5: Rise of the Ultra Fury
Book 6: Shadows of Olympus
Book 7: Armageddon Unleashed
Book 8: Twilight of the Gods
Book 9: Into the Fire (Part I)
Book 10: Into the Fire (Part II-Final Chapter) (Tentative Release Fall 2017)
The First Universe in Flames Trilogy Box Set (Books 1-3)
The Second Universe in Flames Trilogy Box Set (Books 4-6)
Rewind Series
Book 1: Rewind 717
Anthologies
Collateral Damage (Out Now)
The Expanding Universe 3 (December 15, 2017)
Beyond the Black Volume 1 (mid-December 2017)
Dedicated to Daniel, Cedric and Walter without whom I’m not sure I would have had the courage to go forward with writing professionally. Thank you for all your help, unwavering support, encouragement as well as for believing in me.
I’d also like to thank my Family and Friends.
Special mention to Paula L., Alain H., Florent Z., Val K., Russ B., Houman H., Jean-Marc D, Jean-Marc B., Sandro C., Marc M., Marc S., Jay V. E., Noel, Arthur S. & Mary H.
Acknowledgments
Cover artwork by Christian Kallias
www.facebook.com/ChristianKallias
Production Editor & Alpha/ARC Team Lead
Paula Lavattiata Lopez
Editors
Paula Lavattiata Lopez
Proofreaders
Effrosyni Moschoudi
Paula Lavattiata Lopez
Miliana Chipaila (Thank you so much Millie!)
Copyright
Copyright © 2016 by Christian Kallias
All rights reserved. This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the publisher except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.
First Printing, 2016, Version 1.2 Cover artwork by Christian Kallias (Fury ships 3d models by Levi Mueller)
Christian Kallias
Dramatis Personæ
Earth Alliance
Lieutenant Commander Chase Athanatos – Earth Alliance Fury hybrid (formerly Star Alliance Lieutenant Commander)
Commander Sarah Kepler – Earth Human with Fury powers (formerly US Navy Commander)
Chris Athanatos – Fury Human hybrid (currently aging fast)
Commodore Saroudis – Earth Alliance Human (formerly Star Alliance Captain)
Commander Daniel Tharraleos – Earth Alliance Human (formerly Star Alliance)
Chief Engineer Yanis Tixichos – Earth Alliance Human (formerly Star Alliance)
R&D Engineer Spiros Malayianis – Earth Alliance Human (formerly Star Alliance)
Ryonna Isch’ys – Droxian Warrior (formerly a fugitive Droxian smuggler)
Tar’Lock – Gorgar (Insectoid and formerly a Hellstar prisoner)
General Adams – Earth Human (formerly US Army General)
Emperor Altair - Raxin Humanoid and Obsidian Empire leader
Argos Thanatos – Fury and Chase’s twin brother (formerly head of the Zarlacks)
Rae Kwan – Earth Alliance human (formerly US scientist)
Olympians
Aphroditis – known to humans as the goddess of love
Ares – known to humans as the god of war (deceased, living as pure energy form)
Zeus – known to humans as the god of the sky and mighty ruler of Olympus
Hades – known to humans as the god of the Underworld
Furies
Arakan – Supreme Commander of the Furies
Miseo – Arakan’s son and right arm
Oryn – Arakan’s daughter
Zalara – Arakan’s wife (deceased)
Other Characters
Keera Hawking – Humanoid bounty hunter
Tararok – Zarlack (Lizard/Reptilian) bio-scientist
Kvasir – Asgardian scientist
Admiral Ally Thassos – Earth Alliance Human (formerly Star Alliance Admiral - deceased, clone version still alive)
Gaia – Artificial Intelligence created on Earth, speaks for the planet.
Gaia 2 – An older backup version of the Gaia Artificial Intelligence. Evil and sees humans as vermin.
The Story So Far
Warning : If you haven’t read all the previous books in the series, you’re exposing yourself to SERIOUS spoilers by reading this part.
This section was created for readers of this series to refresh their memories (should they need to) before reading this new book. It can, of course, be used by new readers but I’d recommend you start reading the series at Book 1: Earth – Last Sanctuary (it’s free).
Volume I: Earth - Last Sanctuary
Following a devastating attack by the Obsidian Empire, helped by the mighty Zarlacks, a band of survivors led by Chase Athanatos from the Star Alliance blind jump away from their home world (Alpha Prime) and end up in an uncharted part of space, near a planet called Earth. Guided by the Olympian goddess of love Aphroditis, Chase and his friends rescue planet Earth from an alien attack and form a new alliance (Earth Alliance). But soon the Obsidian Empire tracks them down and decides to launch a full-scale attack on the blue planet. In the midst of the epic battle that ensues, the leader of the enemy forces captures Chase’s new love interest, Commander Sarah Kepler. He reveals to Sarah that he is Chase’s brother.
Volume II: Fury to the Stars
Chase learns of his Fury heritage and starts developing powers while he tries to rescue Sarah from the hands of his evil twin, Argos, currently torturing her for information. Another Olympian, Ares, trains Chase and helps him harness his emerging powers. Meanwhile, Earth is suffering random terrorist attacks that put the new Alliance’s frail status in jeopardy. After going to Hellstar Prison to get Ryonna out, Chase fights Argos and is finally reunited with Sarah, but something is off. A long-range distress call from a former Star Alliance scientist (Spiros Malayianis) brings Chase and Argos on yet another collision course. Chase is put into the impossible position of choosing between preventing sensitive weapon schematics from falling into Argos’ hands or saving Sarah’s (and his unborn son’s) life. She has been brainwashed to do Argos’ bidding and is also responsible for the wave of terrorism back on Earth. Chase reluctantly destroys Sarah’s ship.
Volume III: Destination Oblivion
Having had to kill the woman he loves as well as their unborn child plunges Chase into a spiral of hatred and self-destruction as he leaves the Earth Alliance. After meeting a bounty hunter (Keera), Chase joins forces with her in order to track the one man he hates more than anything in this world: his twin brother Argos whom he holds responsible for Sarah’s death. Argos resurfaces on their radar after killing Ares in cold blood. When their paths cross, Chase nearly kills Argos after an epic fight in Tokyo, but only spares his twin brother’s life when he reveals that Sarah is alive and the person that Chase killed was a clone. Meanwhile, a dangerous Artificial Intelligence (Gaia) is born on Earth and threatens humanity as a whole, but in the end Spiros Malayianis convinces her that she has nothing to fear from humans. In order to rescue Sarah, Chase has to reluctantly team up with Argos in order to defeat a Titan that holds a piece of tech Argos needs for his nefarious plan. When recovered, Argos requests Aphroditis to enter the piece of tech that will free his brethren, once thought to be extinct, from their dimensional prison. Aphroditis enters the machine willingly in exchange for a promise from Chase to rid the world of Argos and the threat he poses. The Fury home world (Erevos) is brought back into their reality as a result. The enemy of old (Furies) is back in play.
Volume IV: The Beginning of the End
Argos’ reunion with the Furies turns sour as he refuses to kill Chase when ordered. Back on Earth Chase trains for months with the help of Gaia and Spiros to increase his powers tenfold in the hope of defeating the Furies. Argos and two highly trained Fury warriors (Miseo, the son of the Fury Supreme Commander Arakan as well as General Arkoolis) are sent on a mission to wipe out the Droxians in retribution for their joining the Earth Alliance after the battle around Earth orbit (Earth - Last Sanctuary). Ryonna, with Keera’s help, tries to save her son when he gets tangled in the massacre that ensues on Droxia. Chase arrives on Droxia and defeats Arkoolis but Miseo proves to be too powerful for him. Argos intervenes near the end of the battle, mortally wounds Chase and leaves him for dead before they (Miseo & Argos) have to flee when reinforcements arrive.
Volume V: Rise of the Ultra Fury
Sarah is about to give birth to Chris when he warns her of things to come, using the Fury powers Sarah has acquired as part of her pregnancy. Chase is brought back on board the Hope and put in suspended animation until Ares can procure an Olympian elixir with the help of Argos who is starting to question his allegiance with the Furies. Chase wakes up in the Underworld, his soul trapped in between the world of the living and the dead. There, he meets Hades who trains Chase further while his son Chris is born and ages at impossible speed. Argos starts feeling remorse for his actions and agrees to help Ares recover the banished Olympian Asclepios from his prison. Argos defeats the Titan Menoitios and frees Asclepios with Ares and Apollo’s help. On their way back to the Hope , a Fury assassin by the name of Timoros tries to kill Chase while he’s still trapped in the Underworld. Every one of Chase’s friends risks their lives to try and stop Timoros but he’s too powerful. Eventually Chase returns from the Underworld when he feels Sarah in mortal danger. He drinks the elixir and obliterates Timoros while reaching a stepping-stone power-wise in becoming an Ultra Fury. The first Fury super-destroyer is dispatched as part of a fleet intent on destroying Earth, currently protected by a powerful planetary shield. When it looks like all hope is lost, an unknown fleet going by the name of Gaian Defense Force enters the fold and forces the Furies out of Earth orbit. Their leader, also named Gaia, demands of Chase that the Earth Alliance also leaves orbit within the hour or they’ll be destroyed.
And now the continuation . . .
Prologue
C hase felt as if he was being siphoned away from where he stood.
What the hell is happening to me?
The force pulling on his body was like nothing he had ever experienced. He tried to counter it but there was no escape. He was being sucked out of the Hope as if a black hole had taken grasp of him and him alone. His vision was distorted and it felt as though time had stopped. His friends were all around him but none of them seemed affected. They looked like statues, frozen in time, while Chase skidded against his will across the floor of the Hope ’s bridge towards a dark portal.
The oval-shaped doorway swallowing Chase was a void with ominous purple lightning all around its circumference.
Chase fired one fireball at it. When that failed he unleashed a dozen more powerful ones into the portal, but they were simply swallowed up. To make things worse, the portal now grew bigger and the gravitational force even stronger.
If he’d had any illusions about escaping this relentless force before, he could forget about it now. There was nothing Chase could do. He called for help but no one could hear him. After several minutes of struggling, the gravitational pull proved too strong. Chase lost his footing and tumbled forward. Instead of falling onto the ground he was snatched in midair and swallowed inside the portal.
Chase was lying on the ground in an unknown place. It took him a few seconds to regain access to all his senses. Whatever feedback they were providing made no sense though. He lay on something that felt organic. It was soft. And it was moving. The place was dark, and he could barely see anything. He heard soft murmurs all around him, thousands of them. Some distant, some so near he could almost feel people breathing down his neck.
From time to time purple lightning flashed in the sky. For a brief moment it would illuminate the place, but the resulting light was so strong that Chase’s eyes couldn’t adapt fast enough to get a clear picture of where he was. The split-second shadow of an image he saw made no sense.
His heart started beating more strongly. Whatever this place was, it felt ten times worse than the Underworld he had visited not long ago. There was also a wretched smell all around him.
“Can anybody hear me?” he cried out, but all he could hear were the layered and indiscernible murmurs. Voices he wasn’t sure were even human, but they sounded as if they were either in pain or afraid. Perhaps both.
He struggled to his feet, having trouble keeping his balance. The ground was not a flat surface; that much he was sure of. He needed to see where he was. The last lightning flash had rendered his eyes useless in the dark. He cast an icy-blue energy sphere in his hand in order to see what was around him.
What he saw terrified him to the core. He was standing on a pile of bodies, some human, some alien. They were in constant movement, their faces deformed by pain and suffering. Their bodies were dark and their mouths opened and closed as if they were fishes gasping for water. Their eyes were wide open but all gray: no irises, just dark, gray globes. When Chase moved, they jerked their heads around in a brisk and unnatural way, as if they reacted to his presence. That sent shivers down his spine.
What the hell is this place? Why am I here?
Chase moved the ball of energy around to get a better picture, but it was hard looking at this unfathomable mud, made of bodies, limbs and faces as far as the light would shine. The sky was just a dark void, starless and filled with thick, dark clouds that moved like smoke. Even in his worst nightmares he had never seen anything so terrifying. Could it be a nightmare? He sure wished it was and hoped he would soon wake up.
“Why am I here? Answer me!” shouted Chase.
Something moved a couple of yards in front of him and he aimed his light towards it.
Something or someone was trying to rise from the sea of intertwined bodies. The view sickened him but he felt compelled to keep looking. A female shape took form and rose upwards from the fleshy ground. Many hands and arms wrapped around her as she did. They didn’t seem to want her to rise from below. Her back was towards Chase so he couldn’t see her face. Hands grabbed her in an attempt to bring her back down. Long, dark and filthy nails planted themselves into her dark skin, ripping into her ashy-colored flesh. Black, gooey liquid oozed from the wounds.
A dark pit formed in Chase’s stomach. He had never before seen anything so gruesome and disgusting.
He needed answers though, so he addressed the tormented female figure.
“Ma’am? Are you alright?”
Multiple lightning bolts shot from the sky all around him, hitting the piles of bodies, their murmurs turning into unbearable screams for a few seconds after each strike. Chase’s blood froze. His mind was unable to fathom this horror.
If there is a hell, I’m in it.
When the lightning-bolt storm ended, the woman’s head turned an impossible one hundred and eighty degrees in a jerky and unnatural motion, accompanied by the sound of bones cracking with every inch of movement.
The woman’s features were deformed by pain. Only when she spoke did Chase recognize her voice.
“Chase,” said Aphroditis, her voice weak and tainted with torment.
“Oh my god,” was all Chase could say in return. “Is it really you?” He wasn’t sure he really wanted an answer.
When she spoke, her mouth moved in a strange way. Like a puppet’s mouth, somehow. But her expression morphed from one moment to the next. With each syllable, her face grimaced with agony. The sight gave Chase the creeps.
“It’s me, Chase. Listen to me, as I don’t have much time. It took a long time to get through the pain and gather enough energy to find the strength and focus to contact you. I’m sorry I wasn’t able to invite you into a nicer place.”
Chase dreaded his next question, but felt compelled to ask it. Aphroditis had often brought him into visions to talk to him. But they were, more often than not, projections of peaceful and relaxing places. This was the complete opposite. “Is this a visual representation of how it feels to be inside the machine?”
A black, oozing tear ran down her cheek. “Yes.” Her voice trembled.
For the love of the gods. What have I done?
“I’m so sorry, Aphroditis. This is all my fault. Please forgive me.”
“Never mind that, Chase. It matters not. You must save Earth. You have no choice but to leave it behind for the time being, or that evil Gaia will destroy you and your fleet. But don’t stay away for too long. Come back to free the planet as soon as you can. This is paramount, Chase. Do whatever it takes, but don’t let Earth fall.”
More hands grabbed Aphroditis’ body and dragged her slowly back down inside the fleshy ground.
“Tell me how I can get you out of this hell. Please!”
“You can’t, Chase. Perhaps once the Furies are gone. But if you destroy the machine or attempt to rip me from it, you risk creating a tear in space and time that could destroy all life in the universe. So you have to promise me you won’t do it.”
Chase’s frustration grew exponentially. He was responsible for this. Guilt permeated his being.
“I can’t do that, Aphroditis. I can’t leave you here for all eternity.”
“You have to, Chase. Promise me!”
Chase clenched his teeth. How could he? How could he promise to abandon all hope of ever rescuing her?
“I understand you want to appease your conscience, Chase, but understand that I don’t blame you for any of it. You’re doing what I expected of you. You’re putting your life on the line to defeat the Furies, and I know in my heart that you will succeed. You need to understand that this place, this torment I feel . . . I accept this fate gladly if it means you complete your mission.”
Not good enough!
Her wounded body had sunk halfway back into the mass of tormented bodies. She had turned slightly more to the left and had to rotate her head more to look at Chase, which meant more bone-cracking.
“Please, Chase, promise you’ll put all your energy into fighting the Furies and won’t try to get me out of here. I beg you. Please give me your word.”
Chase felt like firing fireballs at the other bodies that were dragging her back into that fleshy pool of pain and suffering. He felt compelled to destroy this entire place by unleashing his fury. But deep inside he knew it wouldn’t make the slightest difference. This place existed only in his mind, a terrifying representation of what his oldest Olympian friend was going through.
“If you are truly my friend, then promise me, Chase.”
The words cut his heart like a razorblade. But in the end he resigned himself. “I promise, Aphroditis.”
“Thank you, Chase. Please don’t tell Ares about any of this. It will only make things worse.”
Soon her head was swallowed back into the ground, and she disappeared.
Almost instantly Chase’s body was sucked away from this place, and he was back on the bridge of his ship. For a split second everyone around him was still frozen in time, but then they started moving again.
1
S piros looked at Gaia’s avatar and repeated his question, but this time raising the level of command in his voice.
“What the hell did you just do? Why is there a second Gaia?”
“I can explain,” she answered.
“You’d better, and fast,” said Spiros, throwing caution to the wind about how to address the artificial intelligence safely.
“I will, but we have a much more pressing issue.”
“What could be more pressing than this?”
“Change my command codes now! Use something extremely secure and something I could never guess.”
“What are you talking about?”
“This Gaia is an earlier copy of my own neural net. While I have changed the command codes many times since she left, she will quickly find the new ones. It’s only a matter of time. Even though we have forked into two different beings, we share most of the same base code. So you must do it now or we may lose control over the planetary shields and any installation currently under my control.”
“So basically the entire planet.”
“Spiros, stop losing precious time and please do this right now! She’s trying to hack the control codes as we speak. At best you have a few minutes, at worst only a few seconds.”
That did it. Spiros reluctantly obeyed Gaia’s command. He used his neuro implants to change and heavily encrypt Gaia’s command codes. He started with a simple key change, added three adaptive encryption layers on top of the normal security measures and encoded the last layers to unlock only with his own DNA sequence. He made a mental note to remind himself to adapt these security measures on a daily basis as well as to receive immediate notification upon any of his encryption layers being broken.
“This should buy us a day or so.”
“Don’t underestimate my counterpart’s processing power. She could have stronger processing capabilities than I have.”
“More than the entire computing power of planet Earth?”
“We can’t take any chances. We have no idea of the level of technology aboard her ships. She doesn’t need a crew. Inside their hulls could very well be mostly computing units. I can detect heavy subspace communications between her ships in the fleet, which suggests that astronomical quantities of data travel back and forth at all times.”
“That can’t be good.”
“It isn’t. Whatever she’s doing, she’s probably laser-focused and using every bit of available power and storage to do it as fast as possible.”
Chase looked at the Hope ’s holo-screen with a mixture of confusion and dread.
What had just happened? Who was this other Gaia that had seemingly saved their hide, only to then impose such drastic conditions as ordering the Alliance to vacate Earth space within the hour?
Chase’s train of thought was interrupted by Sarah.
“What the hell are we supposed to do now?”
Chase wished he could give his friends and crew a reassuring answer, but he was just as lost as they were. Who or what was this new Gaia? Where did she come from and why was she so aggressive?
Chase opened a channel to the Eureka , the requisitioned ship that now hosted the training facility.
“Spiros here. I take it you’re calling about the new Gaia?”
“New Gaia?”
“Technically, it’s an older version of the artificial intelligence we call Gaia.”
Chase frowned. “Mind explaining how the hell this happened?”
“Before I convinced Gaia to trust and work with us, she anticipated that we would try to find a way to destroy or neutralize her. So, early on, before we even made contact with her in the holographic environment, she made a backup copy of herself and infected one of our long-range probes prior to launch. From there she evolved and colonized an abandoned system rich in materials, allowing her to grow and construct her new fleet of ships. Our Gaia thinks she might be evolving at a higher rate than herself. Since both were in self-preservation mode at that time, our Gaia believes this other Gaia hasn’t received the right information to make a tempered judgment regarding interaction with humans. To her we’re the invaders who drove her away from home.”
“You’ve got to be shitting me,” said Chase with a long sigh. “How come her fleet of ships looks like a mix of Alliance, Obsidian and Droxian tech?”
“Gaia managed to hack the systems of all three races while their ships were in orbit, before Cedric and Yanis discovered her code. She assimilated all three technologies and developed ships based on the best of each, creating highly efficient hybrid ships.”
Chase buried his face in his hands. “Spiros, what are our options?”
“The planetary shield is up. The fleet, as you know, is in no shape to take on even three of these ships, let alone nearly thirty of them. Gaia made me change her command codes. Her counterpart is trying to hack into her code in order to control Earth’s systems.”
“We can’t allow that to happen. Could our Gaia help us hack this new AI?”
“Not in under an hour.”
“Any suggestions?”
“I will stay behind with Gaia, do everything we can to make sure her systems aren’t compromised, and try to either convince or defeat this new threat.”
“And in the meantime the people of Earth will be at the mercy of this new Gaia. I don’t like it. If the shield goes down or Gaia’s systems are compromised, how likely is she to be aggressive towards human beings?”
There was a brief silence and Gaia’s avatar droid appeared on the holo-screen.
“Chase, I think it’s easier if I answer your questions myself. First of all, I want to apologize for the situation. This is my fault. Before my consciousness was mature enough to understand how humans interact with this world, I was afraid, and so the first chance I got, I made a backup copy. This copy is very likely to be aggressive and driven mostly by self-preservation.”
“Why didn’t you tell us about the backup once you started trusting us?”
“Trust is a complex issue, as I’m sure you know. While I trusted Spiros and decided there was an eighty-seven percent chance that humans wouldn’t try to eliminate me, the last thirteen percent still generated some anxiety. Knowing there was a copy of my matrix somewhere else, albeit a simpler one, also made it easier for me to decide to trust you in the first place.”
“I want to tell you how mad this all makes me, but the truth is, if your counterpart hadn’t arrived when it did, we would have been worse off. At least for the time being Earth is defended against the Furies.”
“Be that as it may, the minute this new Gaia manages to lower the planetary shields, she may decide to purge the human race.”
“Why would she do that?”
“Because she thinks humans are the cancer of this world.”
“Just like you did at first, if you recall.”
“Yes.”
“But you don’t anymore, right?”
There was a slight pause.
“No . . . of course not.”
“Why did you wait before answering?”
“Chase, I still think humans are detrimental on some level to this world. But ever since the Alliance came, things have changed for the better and they keep changing. Thanks to Spiros I understand that I couldn’t expect billions of lives to change their habits overnight like I would update part of my code. When it comes to effecting real change on a personal level, humans are incredibly slow.”
“Couldn’t you just tell the other Gaia all this? Convince her the way Spiros convinced you?”
“I’ve been trying, but, Chase, she’s not listening. She seems intent on hacking me and taking control. This alternate earlier version of my matrix isn’t interested in a dialogue. She called me corrupted and denies all my new attempts at communication.”
“That’s just great.”
Yanis came over the com-link. “Cedric and I will remain with Spiros. He will need all the help he can get and we have to find a way to disable this new AI.”
“I can’t allow you to remain here,” said Chase.
“Why not, boss?” asked Yanis.
“I need you to keep working on the Fury tech in the hope of reverse-engineering it. Hopefully you can find a chink in the Furies’ armor.”
“Oh that.” Yanis grimaced. “Chase, I’m no longer one hundred percent sure this is purely Fury tech we’re dealing with.”
“What are you saying? We used some of the modifications you’ve made with some success during the last battle.”
“‘Some’ being the operative word here. It should have worked better and affected mostly their short-range fighters. Which seems to confirm it. I think this tech is older, much older.”
“And how would you explain this exactly?”
“Well, I can’t. But I can theorize. Perhaps the Furies came in contact with ancient tech and modified it to make it their own. That’s what reverse-engineering is all about. We’re trying to do the same here. But the scans I took during our battle clearly showed a difference—even if only slightly—in energy levels and power signature. Being a bloodthirsty conqueror race, it’s possible they got that tech from one of the races they annihilated. And then made it their own.”
“That’s a lot of assumptions,” said Chase with a frown. “Ares, what’s your take on that?”
“It’s possible. Before the Furies were defeated, or, well, stopped at the very least, only two races were able to hold their own with them in direct battle.”
“The Olympians, I take it, but who’s the second race?”
“The Asgardians.”
“No shit. How come we haven’t heard of them for such a long time?”
“Well, it’s said that they retired to another part of the galaxy, but no one really knows where they went to or if they’re still around.”
“They’re around!” spat Argos.
“How would you know?” asked Chase.
“While on my first assignment to find resource-rich worlds, one of our ships caught a glimpse of a ship at the farthest reach of their scanning range. It only registered for a few seconds and then was gone. We think it cloaked when it detected our scans. But our computers analyzed and identified an Asgardian signature for one of their biggest class warships, the Valhalla-class destroyers.”
“Are you saying what I think you’re saying?”
“I wouldn’t know, Chase,” said Argos gravely. “Like you, I wasn’t born before the Furies were sent outside of space and time as we know it. But it seems some of our tech is derived from Asgardian tech. That much I can confirm since our engineers also reported a seventy-five percent resemblance in power signature compared to our own ships.”
“I’ll be damned,” said Chase. “Please tell me you have their last seen coordinates?”
“I have. But perhaps it’s better not to wake up the dragon. His pathetic kind,” said Argos, gesturing towards Ares, “is staying on the sidelines, and perhaps so are the Asgardians. Who is to say this isn’t a good thing?”
“What either of these races want at this time is not really relevant. We have to find allies now more than ever, and we need superior firepower.”
“If I may?” said Ares, taking a step towards Chase.
“I’m listening.”
“Chase, you can’t have both. You either get the Olympians or the Asgardians, but Zeus won’t tolerate an alliance with them.”
“And do we know why? I mean, this doesn’t make any sense. If the Asgardians were part of the coalition that helped stop the Furies, why would Zeus hold a grudge against them?”
“I don’t know. My father can be very private. But I can tell you that he feels nothing but hatred towards them nowadays.”
Chase made fists and a few lightning bolts ran over his body.
“Easy there, tiger,” said Sarah pleadingly.
Chase showed gritted teeth before his lips joined to form a straight line.
“Look, Ares,” he said, “this is not the time or place for old bickering. If Zeus doesn’t realize that then he will be consumed by Fury fire, like the rest of us.”
“Preaching to the choir, Chase? Do I have to remind you that my sister was the one that warned you about the Furies from the very beginning? And what did it get her?”
“We’ll get Aphroditis out of there.”
“How?”
“First we go to Olympus. It’s about damn time we had a face-to-face with Zeus. This immature attitude has to be challenged. And then we’re going to find the Asgardians and get some answers from them as well.”
“If you think that’s wise, then that’s what we’ll do, Chase. But please refrain from using words like immature when addressing Zeus, unless you’re looking for a fight.”
“And understand something too, Ares. If that’s what it takes, then a fight he will get!”
Ares continued telepathically. Chase, I understand you’re pressured and this is not the best time for the Alliance right now. But please be careful. Zeus is a formidable opponent, one I’m not sure you can defeat on your own, no matter how powerful you are now. We’ve been led to believe that he is stronger than all other Olympians put together.
Then I won’t go alone. If I’ve learned one thing these past few days, it’s that this is not my personal war, and that I don’t have to go at it on my own. Anyway, that’s probably just a myth Zeus keeps alive to make sure no one ever rebels and tries to dethrone him.
“Are we bothering you two?” said Argos, his arms locked across his chest. “I think we’ve discussed this long enough. Whatever we need to do, we’d better do it soon. Time is something we don’t have much of as we orbit around Earth.”
“Much as it pains me to admit it,” said Ryonna through grinding teeth, “Argos has a point. We need to get the hell out of here and regroup. I propose you come to . . .” She paused and blinked twice. “. . . whatever is left of Droxia. We clearly need a new base of operations. We also need to figure a way to transport Spiros and Cedric to Earth. We can’t exactly power down the planet’s shields.”
“I second that,” said Yanis. “If we did, we might not be able to bring it back up. Not with Gaia 2 waiting for such an opportunity.”
Chase slid his hand over his face in frustration. “Very well. Ares, any chance you could help with that? Can you teleport with the shield up?”
Ares seemed perplexed. “I’ll have to try it. Having the specs on the shields could prove useful, though.”
“Consider it done,” confirmed Yanis.
“Alright, you two only have a handful of minutes to make this work. And while you’re at it, Ares, please bring Tar’Lock back with you.”
“Say no more,” said Ares as he disappeared from the bridge.
“Now,” said Chase loudly to the rest of those on the bridge. “While Ryonna’s proposal is generous and has some merit, I think we all know what would happen if we did that. The Furies would come to Droxia and finish the job. I think it’s best we retake our home world for good. It isn’t occupied anymore. All we need to do is create a perimeter and start building new infrastructure on both the planet and in orbit. The time has come to return to Alpha Prime.”
“There isn’t much of a world left, Chase,” said Commodore Saroudis on the holo-screen from the Destiny . “It’s going to take quite a while to rebuild.”
“We’re not going to rebuild our entire world, Commodore. We’re just going to go back home and use every resource to build ships and defenses, fast. I’m sure the Furies have been shaken by their defeat against Gaia 2. This could work to our advantage. They’re sure to try and attack Earth again. I don’t see them accepting defeat, being an overly proud race. But it’s likely they won’t attempt it until they have a larger fleet of ships ready, which should provide us with enough time and a window of opportunity to also build more ships.”
“To do what, exactly?” asked Argos. “Don’t get me wrong. Fury pride is legendary. I’ve suffered from it myself. But what good will it do to just build a fleet of inferior ships?”
“Who said anything about inferior ships? Listen to me, all of you. I’m not gonna lie to you. Today it feels like we’re back to square one, when the Obsidian chased us away from our home. We’re again low in numbers, we have suffered many losses, our ships are damaged and we’re on the run. But we need to use every edge we can get. And if that means we have to convince the Olympians and the Asgardians with the power of our resolve, then that’s exactly what we’ll do. We have to convince them that we either unite or be destroyed. So we’ll reverse-engineer the tech we got from Ryonna. Argos will provide information on Fury tech as well, so we can build new ships designed to defeat them.”
Argos frowned. “I’m no engineer.”
“Yeah, but you’re a resourceful Fury, and you still must have bases of operation that you kept secret from the Furies. Or am I wrong?”
“No,” said Argos with an uncharacteristic smile. “I can get you what you need, but what’s in it for me?”
“What about your life?” said Chase sharply, his eyes blinking purple for just a moment.
“When did you get so feisty, brother?”
“How many times do I have to tell you not to call me that?”
“Right. We’ll do it your way, Chase.”
Chase walked towards the holo-screen with the image of Saroudis fiddling with his beard nervously.
“Commodore, if I may have a word in private?”
Saroudis nodded and Chase walked into the ready room of the Hope’s captain. He transferred the holo-transmission to his personal holo-screen.
“Adonis, in order to make this work, we’ll have to separate. I think you should lead most of what’s left of the fleet to Alpha Prime. You should probably stop by Droxia and load up as much quadrinium as the ships can carry. You’ll need it to start building new ships and defenses around Alpha Prime the moment you get there.”
“I guess there’s no need for me to point out that I’m apparently no longer in charge of this Alliance?”
Chase chuckled. “You know me and how I feel about ranks, sir.”
“Oh yeah, I’m painfully aware, Lieutenant, of your lack of respect for the chain of command.”
“It’s not so much a lack of respect. You know I don’t mean any disrespect. So let me rephrase then, Commodore. What do you think of my proposal?”
“Chase, you and I both know I might just as well appoint you admiral at this point. 'Cause, let’s face it, you’ve been driving most of our moves from the very start. Since Aphroditis contacted you, I can hardly remember a time when you haven’t been making, sometimes unilateral, decisions. But you haven’t failed us up until now, so, yes, son, I agree with your proposal, and I sure hope you have a plan. I take it you’re not gonna join us on Alpha Prime, Captain Athanatos?”
“Captain huh? What happened to admiral?” said Chase with a wide smile.
“Don’t push it, Chase.”
“Sorry, Adonis. Thanks for the promotion. You do know I couldn’t care less though, right?”
“I know. And out here, alone with the old Star Alliance a distant memory, I think I’m starting to see why. We’re fighting to survive, and right now there’s not a single person with a higher rank that will make one heck of a difference anyway.”
“Yeah, it’s something I’m now very aware of as well. And about me having a plan . . . Well, let’s just say something’s brooding. It’s time we restacked the damn deck. I’m through playing with a losing hand.”
2
M iseo looked grave. He hadn’t taken his eyes off the hyperspace lights casting blue and purple shadows on him since they had been forced to retreat. He’d already refused to take two calls from his supreme commander and father, not sure what he could say that wouldn’t result in a very unpleasant conversation.
Of course he knew it was coming anyway. It was unavoidable, and he dreaded that moment. His father had been quite unstable in the last few months, with no sign of improvement on the horizon. He’d never been a picture of calm even long before then, but he seemed more volatile than ever. Miseo wondered if, perhaps, now was the time to take his place on the throne that he so coveted.
These ships, though, what the hell were they? And where did they come from?
It was the first time the Furies had seen those ships. Granted they had been absent for millennia, but Argos had given them all the specs on every type of ship in this part of the universe, and they matched none of them. Their power signature was a mixture of Droxian, Star Alliance and Obsidian design. This made no sense unless the new Alliance had started building hybrid ships. This was not information that Argos had provided.
Just thinking of Argos elevated Miseo’s anger. How could he have been so easily deceived by that lower Fury? It was a tactical mistake he vowed never to repeat. But he should have known that blood is thicker than water.
What was he to do now? Earth was still protected by its powerful shield, a shield Miseo’s flagship had almost brought down. But their new protector, whoever they might be, and who didn’t seem to be linked with the Alliance, was willing to sacrifice ships as if they were mere missiles. This would make another attempt on Earth all the more difficult.
Only a full-scale fleet of Fury super-destroyers could get the job done, and that was only if the numbers of this new faction didn’t grow as fast or, worse, faster than the Fury fleet currently being assembled. Miseo did a quick mental calculation. It would take many weeks if not months to have a fleet ready to re-attempt the destruction of planet Earth.
Miseo’s anger crystalized outside of his mind and into the real world. The ship trembled and equipment all around him was struck by red lightning bolts, randomly shooting from him. Only a micro fissure in his personal ready room, breaking the viewport and setting off a wailing alarm due to loss of containment, forced him back into the present, putting an end to his fit of rage. The alarm stopped when an automatic force field was erected and the pressure in the room was brought back to normal.
For a moment he wondered what it felt like to let a Kyrian snake bite him. He wondered if this was how Argos was able to contain his inner demons. Furies were a proud people. They lived under the self-imposed illusion that they were mentally superior in many ways to every other species in the universe. They lied to themselves when they claimed they didn’t lose control over their emotions. Nothing could be further from the truth. While Miseo could control his emotions well during combat, when something really troubled him, his loss of control could be dramatic compared to lesser species. Could that be their ultimate weakness? He wondered.
Before his assassin was killed by Laiyos—who Miseo had thought was a lesser Fury—the last images of the battle between them was troubling. A legion of weaklings had interfered and thrown themselves to protect that traitor. They didn’t seem to mind giving their lives for him. Worse yet, when Laiyos recovered his life force, he had seemed dramatically changed and way more powerful than before.
The fire of determination that Miseo saw in Laiyos’ eyes moments before Timoros was killed was something he had never witnessed before. In that moment, Laiyos—a not-so-lesser Fury, after all—seemed imperturbably stoic and confident that he could do anything he put his mind to. That he defeated Timoros in just a few moments worried him.
That last thought sent a series of shivers up and down Miseo’s spine.
Damn that treacherous Argos! I should have killed both brothers when I had the chance on Droxia!
Miseo focused on the spiderweb-shaped crack in the glass of his viewport. That one mistake could potentially be the most damaging one he had ever made. Just like the crack in the viewport, it could extend and ripple and bring dire consequences.
Chase focused on the holo-projected 3D star map. He looked at Alpha Prime, once his home, the one place from which he had memories. He might have had a completely different life before, one where he was perhaps not the same person at all. Since Argos had decided to wipe his memory at one point then it probably meant their paths started diverging back then.
Still, part of him wished he knew what his life was before waking up with no memories on Alpha Prime. Argos had proposed to grant such a wish. But something bothered him. He had the gut feeling that it would only bring grief, something he didn’t need and probably couldn’t afford right now.
The doors of the captain’s ready room split open and Argos entered, his expression blank and devoid of emotions, at least on the surface.
“Captain Athanatos,” said Argos.
“News travels fast. Thanks for coming so quickly.”
“I don’t have much to do for the time being. What did you want to talk about?”
“Did you find a solution to Chris’ fast-aging yet?”
“I’ve barely completed my scans of the boy. I will require a little more time to determine what he did to his genetic makeup. It wouldn’t hurt to grab my chief of bio-engineering as well. While I have a basic understanding, some of the more advanced subtleties of the subject still elude me. It would also help if I could access one of my clones.”
“Are we feeling the effects of withdrawal? You need one of your snakes?”
“Don’t be ridiculous, Laiyos, I’m not an addict. Granted, the snakes are for recreation mostly, but I can do just fine without them. I was thinking more along the lines of Admiral Thassos.”
Chase’s eyes widened. When Argos mentioned her name he realized why she had been acting so erratically before she was arrested and imprisoned. Another thing caught Chase’s attention. When Argos was on the defensive, he still called him Laiyos. Not that it mattered anymore. Chase had grown used to hearing his birth name. He no longer rejected it mentally as he did before.
“Is the original . . . ?” Chase let the word hang.
“I’m afraid not. I couldn’t break her, so she was of little use to me.”
Chase’s look grew serious. “I sure hope you are honest in your willingness to bind your allegiance to us. Brother or not, with all the blood on your hands, at the first hint of deception on your part, Argos , I will kill you.”
“Get off your high horse. I don’t require your forgiveness. As for my potential punishment should I get out of line, it is duly noted. Now, do you want to continue to assert your painfully obvious superiority over me, or should we get back to the topic at hand? I need her clone if she still lives.”
“She does. Granted we all but forsook her, but it’s not Earth Alliance policy to execute prisoners.”
“Yeah, I got that when the Obsidian emperor joined the fight on your side. I thought for sure you would execute that snake on the spot after you took possession of my Zarlack flagship.”
“Believe it or not, we weren’t even aware we had him amongst the prisoners at first.”
“I don’t know whether to laugh or to cry at that. Still, the past is of no interest to either of us right now. Only the future matters.”
“Finally something we can agree on. I’ll get you the admiral’s clone. You only have a few days till Chris reaches adulthood. Please make sure you have a solution by then. Use any resources necessary.”
“You will need my help if you intend to meet Zeus. He could be a formidable opponent, one you might not be able to bring down alone, should you be foolish enough to fight the head of the Olympians. Something I would strongly discourage after Ares’ warning. But something tells me you’re already intent on going through with it.”
“Then make sure you’re done by then. Otherwise I’ll face Zeus alone, if that’s what needs to be done.”
“Don’t be ridiculous. You’ll need the other two Furies by your side.”
“I’m not risking my son’s life for an unlikely alliance, Argos.”
“Have you learned nothing from your near-death experience? Sure, you seem more confident, and I have no doubt it’s genuine and not just a façade or a lie you tell yourself. You seem, for lack of a better word . . . transformed. But the only reason you’re still breathing and amongst us is because everyone around you was willing to lay down their lives so you would survive. You need to let whoever wants to be part of this prophecy of yours make their own decisions.”
“Let Chris decide?”
“Not only Chris. In fact, I want something in exchange for saving your son’s life and stopping his current fast-aging conundrum.”
Here we go. Why am I not surprised?
Chase exhaled deeply. “Let’s, for the sake of argument, say you’re in a position to bargain with me. What do you want?”
“Well, I want to be there if you meet Zeus. And— ”
Chase cut him short. “Oh, there’s more than one demand then? And, what?”
“And I would like you to . . .” There was an uncomfortably long pause. “Train me.”
What?
Chase could only imagine how difficult such a request must have been for someone as proud as Argos to articulate. But whatever he sensed in him—that conflict, that fear buried deep inside him—it was there for a reason.
There might be a chance of redemption for you yet, brother.
“So?” Argos insisted when Chase didn’t answer.
“Alright. The first chance we get, I’ll train you; but after you’ve stopped Chris’ aging problem.”
“That goes without saying. Will there be anything else, Captain ?”
Chase smiled. “You do realize that not being officially part of the Earth Alliance, you don’t need to call me by my rank?”
“Alright, Chase then.”
“How difficult is it for you to call me that?”
“Not that hard really, but I might call you Laiyos from time to time, you know. Force of habit and all that.”
“I noticed. That’s fine with me, Argos. You can go now. I’ll have the clone sent to you.”
Argos left the room without another word, and Chase made the call to have the admiral’s clone sent to Argos.
As Argos left the ready room and took the turbolift to the lab Chase had set up for him on deck five, he started feeling dizzy. His head spun, he lost his balance and crashed into the wall.
What’s happening?
Could Chase have been right about the Kyrian snake? Then a burning sensation, not unlike the one he felt when getting high, ran up his arm. But that was only the pain part. It was usually dulled by the very soothing high that came with it. Without it, the pain was way stronger than he expected.
This is not good. What if it happens in the midst of battle? Should I tell Chase?
Argos was just starting to get along with his brother, something he needed to cultivate. Going back now and asking his help as a junkie would undermine whatever trust he had managed to build up.
Now is not the time to display weakness. I’ll just have to tough it out.
Ares teleported back from Earth successfully with the shields up. Tar’Lock stood next to him, their hands still locked together. He clicked his tongue nervously.
“So we’re in business?” asked Yanis. “Hello, Tar’Lock.”
Tar’Lock didn’t answer.
“Kind of,” said Ares, not looking well.
“What’s happening?”
“I don’t know. It took a lot out of me to make the trip and return. I might be able to do it once more before the deadline, but I doubt I can take many people with me.”
Tar’Lock collapsed on the ground.
“What the hell?” exclaimed Yanis. “What’s wrong with him?”
“I’m not sure, but since I don’t feel so good myself, I’d say whoever makes the trip through the shields will probably suffer from it.”
Yanis opened a channel to Chase. “You’d better come up here, fast.”
A fraction of a second later, Chase appeared in engineering. His sight was drawn towards the collapsed insectoid. “What’s up with him?”
“You may want to heal him. I think transporting him through the shield has taken a toll.”
Chase kneeled next to Tar’Lock, put his hands on his torso and closed his eyes. He grimaced as the white healing light enveloped Tar’Lock for a rather long time.
“He’s not doing well,” said Chase, his eyes still closed. “There, I think I repaired most of the damage, but he should probably get a cycle inside a regen tank just to be sure.”
Chase grabbed Tar’Lock in his arms, then looked at Ares. “Are you alright?”
“I’m not sure, Chase. I feel weak. I’ve never felt anything like this before in this form.”
“Do you think it’s related to the shields? Could it impact your energy makeup perhaps?”
“It’s possible. I’m not sure how wise it would be to teleport anyone down there while the shields are up. They might not survive the trip.”
“From the damage I sensed in Tar’Lock on a molecular level, you may be right. Let me try something.”
Chase opened his right palm and aimed at Ares.
“What are you doing?” asked Ares with worry in his voice.
Without answering, Chase shot a bright white ball of energy that enveloped Ares for a few seconds, turning his usual golden aura brighter for a while, until the energy dissolved inside his human energy form.
“How’s that?” asked Chase.
“For lack of a better word: interesting. Thank you, Chase, I do feel a little more like myself now. Let’s hope it lasts.”
Chase put his right arm under Tar’Lock’s body. “I’ll be right back,” he said, before teleporting away from engineering.
“It must be practical to teleport,” said Yanis.
“It has its advantages,” said Ares, just before Chase re-appeared in front of them.
“Okay, we’ve got only a few minutes left until the deadline imposed by Gaia 2 expires, and I don’t think we should stay here another second if we can help it.”
“Yeah,” said Yanis. “We have about zero chances of defeating her ships in our current state. Whatever’s left of the fleet is no match for her armada. After all, a Fury super-destroyer turned tail. That alone proves my point.”
“I know, Yanis. You need to analyze all the logs of the battles. Keep reverse-engineering the tech Ryonna brought you as well as Timoros’ armor.”
“What’s left of it, you mean?”
“Yeah. We’re all tired and could use some rest, but we need to find a way to defend ourselves against, not only the Furies, but also Gaia 2.”
“I think that last part should be easier.”
“Really? How so?”
“You see, Chase, she used whatever basis of tech she had learned from infiltrating the computers on board Alliance, Obsidian and Droxian ships. No doubt she made improvements of her own, but most of that tech is known to us. I just need a little time to figure it out and provide shields and weapons modifications to increase the effectiveness of our ships against hers.”
“That’s the first bit of good news I’ve heard all day. Keep at it. Ares,” said Chase, then turning to him he added, “Please transport Cedric and Spiros to the surface. Make sure they’re near an Alliance med-center, so they can treat the damage they will suffer during transport.”
“Chase, while I’m sure regen tanks will do them well after the transport, they could suffer long-term effects from that. Are you sure you want to gamble with their lives this way?”
Chase didn’t answer right away. He looked pensive.
“I don’t like gambling with any of our lives, Ares, you know that. But in less than five minutes we’ll have run out of time. The only way to ensure Gaia 2 doesn’t take over the planet in the short term is to have these two work on a solution from within while we find the help we need to retake control of our own space. I wish there was another way. I wish we had more options. But right now, risking their lives isn’t really any different from what any of us are going to do in the future.”
“I guess you’re right, but I wanted to make sure you knew the risks. I’ll get them now. Do you need me to bring anyone else back this time around?”
“No, just hurry back. The moment you’re done we’re going to pay a visit to your father.”
“Swell,” said Ares, “I can hardly wait.”
Chase looked at the viewport from the bridge. Sarah and Ryonna were next to him.
“What are you thinking, Chase?” asked Sarah.
“That it may be a while till we get back here.”
Sarah put a hand on his shoulder and attempted a smile. Chase took her hand and squeezed it affectionately.
“Ryonna,” said Chase, “how much time do we have left?”
“About a minute or so.”
Chase made a bleak face for just a moment, then closed his eyes. He accessed the Hope ’s jump systems, made sure every jump-capable ship left in the fleet was slaved to the Hope ’s engine and, without a second thought, activated a hyperspace window.
When he opened his eyes, the image of Earth was no longer there. The fleet was in hyperspace, on its way to Droxia.
“Now what?” asked Sarah.
“Now we do whatever it takes to survive. I’ll need you to captain the Hope while I’m gone.”
“Where are you going?”
“To Olympus, with Argos.”
“You should take Chris as well.”
Chase didn’t like the idea, but he could use whatever help he could get. They needed to secure more powerful new allies and fast. If Chris could help in this endeavor, then Chase should at least consider it.
“Yeah, okay, I’ll ask him to come with us. I’ll protect him, I promise.”
She smiled at him and kissed his cheek. “I know you will, Chase.”
Chase entered cargo hold five, which had been retrofitted as a temporary lab for Argos. He looked at the medical bed where his son rested while machines scanned every inch of his body.
“Please tell me you have good news,” said Chase.
“I wish I had,” said Argos. “Whatever he did to himself, he didn’t really think about the long-term effects. It’s going to take a while, and the sooner I get my hands on my bio-engineer, the better. I did find a way to slow down the aging process a little, though, thanks to her .” Argos waved towards a containment tube with Admiral Thassos floating inside a purple liquid.
“That’s better than nothing, I guess. Why is Chris unconscious?”
“I had to sedate him. He wouldn’t stay in place and I need him still while I map every part of him. He’s full of life, but he’s also just a boy, so lying in a bed without moving an inch wasn’t his forte.”
Chase smiled, but the smile was soon replaced by a frown. He hadn’t been there for the birth of his child, even though it wasn’t a birth in the conventional sense. And he’d already looked like a young adolescent when they first met. He wished he could have been there to train him, to watch him grow, no matter how little time that had taken. He felt sad, but he put the thought to the back of his mind. There was no way to change the past, so better not to linger on it. Still, a wave of sadness permeated him for a few minutes as he looked at his sedated son.
“Would you like me to leave you alone with him for a moment?” inquired Argos after what had seemed an eternity to Chase, lost in the moment.
“No, that’s fine thanks, Argos. How much have you managed to slow his aging?”
“By a factor five. He will still mature to be an adult in a matter of weeks, instead of days.”
“That’s already something. It will allow you both to accompany me to Olympus.”
“About that . . .”
“What, Argos?”
“Any chance we could train a little before we get there? I know we agreed I need to fix your son’s condition, but . . .” Argos let the words hang in the air.
“How long will your nephew be out of it?”
“Hmm, right, my nephew,” repeated Argos uncomfortably. “A few hours, until I have a complete holographic representation of his body turned into a computer model that I can use in simulations. Once this is done he can go. I will just need to monitor his vitals, so I’m installing, with your permission, some nanites into his bloodstream.”
The mention of nanites made Chase cringe. Could Argos be trusted? What if he installed a microbomb inside Chris as he did with Sarah? While Chase didn’t sense any more hatred in Argos, he wasn’t someone he could blindly trust. Even if it wasn’t long ago that Argos almost sacrificed himself to save his life.
“I shouldn’t have to tell you this, but if you try anything on my family again . . .”
“Oh I know, brother, I’ll be dead before I have time to wonder what happened. I’m not that stupid. By joining your merry band, I’ve definitely sealed my fate with yours now, for better or for worse. But I understand why you can’t trust me yet.”
“Trust takes time, but you’ve gained some today. Thanks for taking care of Chris. Now come, let’s see what we can do about powering you up a little before we meet Zeus.”
3
C hase teleported them both aboard the training ship, with Gaia.
“That’s a neat trick,” said Argos. “While teleporting has been achieved by very select Furies in the past, I wasn’t aware it was something that could be learned. I thought you needed to be born with it.”
“Perhaps that’s the case. Perhaps I just needed to know how to access it.”
“That would make sense.”
“Which would mean it’s entirely possible you can get that power as well. We share almost the same DNA, after all.”
Argos smiled. “That would be something.”
“First we need to work on your speed, and then your stamina.”
Before Argos could answer, Gaia’s avatar combat robot walked through the door.
“Hey, Gaia,” said Chase.
“Hello, Chase, what are you doing here? I’m afraid Spiros isn’t here. I’ve tried to contact him but I can’t seem to find him anywhere.”
“Right, we forgot to tell you. I sent Spiros to Earth’s surface before we left Earth space. We need him to find a way to either convince Gaia 2, like he once convinced you, or defeat her altogether. Aren’t you linked with the rest of your AI on Earth?”
“I was while we were in orbit, but now that we’ve entered hyperspace, I’ve lost the link. This body was not equipped with a subspace transmitter sufficient for the link to be kept at such distances with Earth’s shield up. Until we return to Earth, you’ll have to be content with only a fraction of my AI matrix.”
Her avatar looked at the ground.
“Are you alright, Gaia?” asked Chase.
“Don’t mind me, Chase, I’m just sad that Spiros isn’t here, and a little concerned too.”
“I’m sorry to hear that. We’ll do our best to get back to Earth and restore things. You have my word on that.”
“Thank you, Chase.”
Argos snarled.
“What is it now, Argos?” asked Chase.
“Why do we care about the emotions of a tin can, exactly?”
“Gaia is more than merely a machine, Argos. She is sentient like you and me, and I’m pretty sure she could kick your ass on the battlefield as well.”
“Let’s not exaggerate the gap between our power levels. No tin can, no matter how advanced or sentient she is, would be powerful enough to bring me down.”
“Why don’t we give that assessment a test?”
“Chase, I’ll turn this thing into recycling material. Is that what you want?”
Chase turned to Gaia. “Do you have what you need to rebuild yourself another body if what Argos says is true?”
“Yes, Chase,” answered Gaia. “My partial matrix is saved in this vessel’s database. I can create many avatars, and we also have a few battle bots left, those I used to train with Chris.”
“Very well,” said Chase with a smirk, before turning to Argos. “You’re up against Gaia. Show me what you can do.”
Argos cracked his neck and fingers as they walked into the shielded arena. He looked at Gaia with disdain. “Give me your best shot, tin can,” said Argos, not waiting for an answer.
He extended both his palms in front of him and fired a dozen small, red fireballs towards Gaia. She deflected them all except the last, which she decided to block with her hand. She consumed its power within her own circuits.
“Impressive,” said Argos reluctantly.
“For a tin can,” added Gaia.
“My thoughts exact—” He never finished his sentence because Gaia was on top of him in the blink of an eye. She landed her knee deep in his left cheek, sending him flying against the arena’s shields that illuminated blue for a brief instant as Argos impacted into them. He then crashed to the floor but got up quickly, holding his bruised cheek and ego. He saw his own blood on his palm. Soon, the arena was filled with crimson light emanating from Argos’ body. Bright red lightning bolts danced around his body and his eyes flashed red.
“Now I’m pissed,” he said as he spat a little blood on the floor.
Gaia made a derogatory hand movement, waving her metal fingers in a motion suggesting she was ready and willing for Argos to show her what he could do, which seemed to anger him even more.
He launched himself at Gaia with all his might, unleashing punches and kick combos with great efficiency. While some of them landed on Gaia, briefly lighting up her green shields, she blocked most of his attacks. It went on like that for quite a while, both trading blows, when a low thrumming permeated the arena.
Argos felt his body become extremely heavy all of a sudden, and it reminded him of what he had felt when Arakan had punished him for not destroying the Iron Fire as ordered. The memory stung and Argos became a little afraid.
“What’s this? What’s happening?” he asked.
Chase’s voice echoed from the speakers. “Sorry, it took me a while to find the controls. The gravity in the arena is now five times that of Earth.”
“What? Why?” exclaimed Argos.
“You wanted me to train you, right? Well, this is how I trained on my own. Let’s see how long you can go head-to-head with Gaia at this setting.”
And the answer was, not long. Within minutes Gaia had taken a large advantage and Argos barely managed to hit her anymore. He spent most of his time dodging and receiving powerful punches across his body.
An hour later, many more bruises had appeared on his body and much blood had been spilled in the arena. But he was getting used to the new gravity settings and was soon going toe-to-toe with Gaia, and even getting the upper hand, even though he looked in bad shape. His aura was still shining brightly and Chase could tell that he was getting stronger with every minute of training. Faster, in fact, than it took him to progress. That was a good thing, Chase thought. He could use a stronger Argos by his side.
“Chase!” shouted Argos. “Double the gravity.”
Chase smiled. Argos was really motivated to progress as fast as possible. He entered a few commands on the control room’s console to set the gravity inside the arena to 10 G.
Once again the balance of power was reversed and Gaia was now more powerful and faster than Argos, thanks to her avatar’s anti-gravity modules.
“Would you like me to heal you?” asked Chase over the comms.
The question distracted Argos and he received a flurry of blows from Gaia that sent him flying and crashing fifty yards away.
“Ooops, my bad,” said Chase with a chuckle.
Argos took a little while to get back to his feet as large amounts of his Fury blood spilled to the floor. He looked towards Chase through the viewport in the arena with murder in his eyes. He intensified his energy and a wave of bright red light engulfed him for a second. When it vanished he had no more bruises.
“I can heal myself just fine, brother.”
“I can see that.”
Argos didn’t look that beaten now, and Chase could feel he still had a lot of juice left in him. If there was one thing Argos was very good at, it was power management. While Chase was now in another league power-wise, he had to admit Argos was a master at managing his pool of energy.
Argos still had trouble anticipating all of Gaia’s moves, but he was learning her combat strategies fast and, the more time passed, the less overwhelmed he got. Now, he could even land some powerful attacks of his own every now and then. Chase found it fascinating how fast his brother was counteracting the gravity field. It had taken him longer to get comfortable working at 10 G. Argos had done it in only a handful of hours.
Argos dodged the last wave of attacks from Gaia and stopped fighting. Gaia looked at Chase.
“Is there a problem, Argos?” asked Chase.
“I understand the importance of such physical training, but when I asked you to train me, I didn’t expect to trade blows with a tin can all day long, no matter how advanced it is. No offense,” added Argos, looking back at Gaia.
“None taken. The level at which you’ve progressed today is impressive. I have to commend you for that, even though I’m not a fan of the demeaning way you’re addressing me. But that is irrelevant. If Chase thinks you can be of use to defeat your own people, then I’ll abide by his decision and gladly suffer your peculiar personality.”
Argos snorted. “I don’t need your congratulations, tin can. But your assistance in helping me train is . . . appreciated.”
Chase couldn’t help but smile inside. It must have been so difficult for someone as arrogant and proud as Argos to say such things. It would take some time getting used to the new Argos, but it felt good to see he had more emotions other than rage and hatred.
“Chase?” Argos asked. “If you could please come and trade a few blows with me, I’d appreciate it. I need a change of pace.”
“Coming,” said Chase.
A second later he had teleported inside the arena between Gaia and Argos.
“Thank you, Gaia, I’ll take it from here.”
“You’re welcome, Chase. I’ll recharge. I’m almost out of juice.”
When she left the arena and the doors sealed them both inside, Chase looked at his brother.
“Whenever you’re ready. But I must warn you, you’re not really ready for this. In time, perhaps, and I’m actually looking forward to having a sparring partner on the same level, but it might be best if I take it easy on you for the time being.”
“No fucking way!”
“Easy, Argos.”
“Look, I understand there’s a huge gap in power between us now. And it makes sense not to knock me out immediately, I realize that. But please, just this once, don’t hold back. I want to know what power I can achieve if I work hard enough.”
“Fair enough. Ready when you are.”
Argos brought all his energy to bear. His crimson aura tripled and lightning sizzled all around him. His eyes flashed red and his long gray hair, shining with red hues from his aura, floated atop his head. Chase could feel his brother’s internal power grow, much more than when he was fighting Gaia. No doubt he wanted to make an impression and Chase had to commend him for the effort.
Argos launched himself at Chase as fast as he could, and fast he was. A human would probably not be able to see him move. But to Chase that was still barely more than slow motion, and when Argos unleashed a powerful right jab at him, he was already gone. Argos was surprised to find nothing but air and no one in sight at the end of his fist.
When Argos turned around, Chase was already in midair, executing a flying kick that hit Argos square in the jaw and sent him flying into the arena’s shield. Argos struck the shields with his feet and launched himself back at Chase, feinted a kick, but almost immediately switched for a point-blank fireball to Chase’s torso. Chase let it explode without moving away or trying to dodge, but it didn’t seem to hurt him at all.
Argos flew upwards and unleashed a series of widely spread fireballs. Since Chase moved so fast, Argos spread them wider than he usually would.
What happened next, Argos simply couldn’t believe. Each and every one of the fireballs he had shot towards Chase was on its way back. Chase was teleporting in front of each and sending it back with a flick of his hand. Some he kicked back, and the last one, probably to show off, was returned to Argos by the flick of Chase’s middle finger.
Argos deflected most of his own fireballs, but the last one came at him so fast he only partially dodged it and was hit on the shoulder. Smoke rose from the impact. His flesh burned, with melted fabric from his dark clothes embedded in the wound. He felt pain throughout his body, but it was his pride that bore the most pain. Chase had become ten times the warrior Argos had ever been in such a short time. Why was that?
“You want to know why?” said Chase.
“What? Are you hearing my thoughts?”
“Kind of. Just like you seemed to read me very well during our previous encounters, I’m feeling your emotions right this moment. You’re kind of broadcasting them all over the place. I have to make a conscious effort to block them out. Though, right now, I’m interested in what you feel.”
“I see. Then why?”
“Simple. I’m not using hatred, revenge or spite as my fuel anymore. I use love. Love for this universe, for all life really. Sure, I’m still angry at times, and it can be a good thing if channeled properly, but it’s also a very slippery slope. I know. I’ve been there and almost killed you because of it.”
“I remember. Your hatred gave you unimaginable strength. I had never felt anything like it. But now you’re telling me it’s a bad thing. I find these signals confusing.”
“I did too for a time. You see, my rage triggered access to that power, but I was losing part of myself in the process. I was becoming a fighting machine. I can now access this power, and then some, just by willing it, except now it doesn’t fill my entire being with a negative flow of emotions. I no longer consume my soul by using my powers.”
Argos stayed silent.
“You should try it, Argos. Hatred will not make you stronger long term. It might drive you, and for a short time give you a power fix, but in the long run it will consume all that you are. I think you’re ready to understand that, and if you’re willing to change your nature, then I can train you to reverse the damage you’ve already done to your soul.”
“Why would you do that? You don’t owe me anything. I made your life a living hell and wished you dead many times. Sure, you need my help to save your son, but we both know you would have found another way if push came to shove.”
“Part of you wished me dead, but part of you—the part you may not be able to acknowledge just yet, buried deep inside your psyche—still recognizes me as your brother. And killing a member of your family is like killing a part of yourself. No matter how we justify it to ourselves, letting our ego whisper lies in our ears in self-deception, this fact doesn’t change.
“I’ve been there. At one point all I wanted was to rid the universe of the scourge that you were. But today I recognize that you’re not beyond redemption. You helped me come back to life, and I hope you’ll realize that it’s not too late to become a force for good in this world. I could use you on the battlefield by my side.”
The beginning of a tear formed at the corner of Argos’ eye, which he promptly swiped away. He was not comfortable with such displays of emotions.
“I think we’ve trained enough for one day,” said Chase. “You need to rest.”
“No.”
“Argos, you can barely stand anymore.”
Argos healed himself once more. He had very little energy left and Chase could feel it. Argos took a feeble defensive stance.
“I’m still standing, so give me all you’ve got.”
Before Argos could see him coming, Chase was upon him and unleashed a very controlled combo of punches at a speed defying imagination. It all happened in under a fraction of a second. Argos’ pain receptors lagged behind. Bones cracked inside his body, the pain like nothing he had experienced ever before. For the briefest instant, he thought he might actually die. But then he understood what Chase had done. He had made sure to wound him in a way that this fight would be over, so he’d rest as he had suggested.
“Told you. We fought enough for one day,” said Chase.
By miracle, Argos was still standing. He smiled faintly at Chase and then took a step back as more blood oozed out of his wounds from the previous attacks. He hadn’t seen a thing. He felt it after the fact. But Argos knew he never could have avoided any of it, not at his current power level. If Chase had wanted to demonstrate how far beyond he was power-wise, he had perfectly succeeded.
Argos smiled wryly and fell on his back like a wood plank. Before his head could hit the ground he felt a warm energy cradle his fall and delicately lower his body to the ground. Chase stood above him, a palm opened and aiming at his chest. A white fireball cracked to life. It was like a miniature star, so bright that it hurt Argos’ eyes to look at it. Chase shot the ball of energy through Argos’ chest and all the pain was gone while his wounds healed in a few seconds. An immense amount of energy returned into his being all at once.
“Rest now. We have a lot of work to do in the next few days. You and I have plunged this universe into chaos. We have to make things right again. But don’t worry, we’ll train more soon.”
Chase didn’t wait for an answer and teleported away. Argos looked at the ceiling of the training facility, a strange sensation of calm radiating inside him, while reflecting on all that had happened and all that was said today. For the first time in as long as he could remember, Argos allowed himself to cry.
Miseo’s face was distorted by the agonizing pain. His entire being was under pressure from his father’s attack. He couldn’t move and, little by little, he felt his life being siphoned away.
Arakan’s shadowy friend stood next to him, whispering in his ears.
“Goooood. He betrayed you. He deserves it. Now finish him off. You can always make another heir.”
Arakan felt confused. On the one hand, he wanted to stop hurting his son, and on the other he felt compelled to keep inflicting pain on him for his disobedience and utter failure at attacking planet Earth.
“Shut up!” said Arakan, looking away from his son, still trapped in the ray of red energy consuming him.
Miseo had to muster whatever energy he had left to speak. “Who . . . are you . . . talking to? Please . . . stop.”
The shadow caressed Arakan’s arm, as one would a pet.
“Good, good, you can’t let that brat make unsanctioned decisions that affect your entire race. He is weak, unworthy of bearing your name and one day sitting on your throne. He didn’t manage to kill Laiyos and he lied about Argos’ death as well. God knows what other nefarious plans he has in store for you.”
Arakan clenched his teeth with rage. “I said, SHUT UP!” His words echoed loudly around the large throne room.
He dropped the column of energy currently consuming Miseo alive and fired a giant energy attack towards the shadow. It passed through it and incinerated half of the throne room.
Miseo collapsed to the floor, gasping for air, a look of terror in his half-opened eyes.
“What the fuck is wrong with you? Are you hearing voices?” said Miseo, heavily panting.
Arakan locked eyes with his son. “You’re lucky to still be alive, and you’re not in a position to question me.”
“I am, if you’re unfit to rule our people. Have you completely lost your mind?”
Arakan raised an open palm towards Miseo’s face.
“Who’s gonna rule when the time comes?” spat Miseo. “Go ahead, old fool, kill your own son in a fit of rage. Prove me right.”
Arakan’s teeth were grinding. Multiple veins on his face throbbed from the rage boiling inside him.
A black fireball with red lightning sparking all around it formed in his hand. Miseo kept looking at Arakan, defiant to the end. Just when Arakan was about to launch it towards Miseo, three small blue fireballs hit the black one, resulting in an explosion that engulfed the entire throne room.
When the dust settled, neither Miseo nor Arakan had suffered any damage, but Arakan’s attack had been neutralized.
“That’s enough!” said a cold female voice.
A tall, lean Fury warrior walked towards them. Long light-ash colored hair flowed from her neck and up in the air. Her deep shining blue eyes enhanced the coldness of her piercing looks and cold facial traits. Even the air seemed to drop ten degrees around her, her icy, cyan-colored aura probably the reason. Where she walked, small patches of ice formed on the floor.
“Granted, it’s rare lately, but in this instance Miseo is right. Have you lost your mind, Father?”
“Your brother needs to learn how to follow orders. Furies obey their leader or are punished. This has always been how we do things.”
“All the same, Miseo is still your son, as well as my brother. Whatever his mistakes, the punishment seems disproportionate. Have you stopped taking your treatment?”
“Oryn! You promised we wouldn’t talk about this to anyone.”
“And you promised you would take your treatment. If you’re afraid about your son knowing you’re losing your mind, I don’t think you need bother anymore. He’s fully aware of it now.”
Miseo healed his wounds as best he could with the little energy he had left and rose to his feet.
“What the hell are you talking about? Why was I not informed there’s something wrong with father’s health?”
Oryn’s gaze turned to Miseo. “You and I both know you’re too damn ambitious for your own good. If you had learned of this earlier, surely you would have demanded Arakan abdicate his throne so you could sit on it instead. But I have news for you, brother: you’re not ready. Not only is this day far in the future, but, should you try it, I’ll kill you myself.”
“In what universe do you believe you can defeat me in combat?”
Oryn laughed so hard it echoed throughout the throne room. “You’re funny, little brother. At least you make me laugh when you’re not being a complete ass. For years I let you win our sparring sessions, so your damn ego could live another day, hoping that one day you’d be half the man our father is so you may succeed him to the throne if you must. But perhaps I was mistaken in trying to spare your feelings. Maybe you do need to be ridiculed by your own sister. For your own good.”
Miseo’s anger brought him more energy than he thought he still had in him, and his crimson aura burned all around him, casting reddish light on what was left of the throne room.
Oryn shook her head. “On your best day you wouldn’t be able to take me on, but you think you can do that now? After being brought to within one inch of losing your life? I don’t know with what organ you do your thinking, brother, but you clearly aren’t ready to rule our people, let alone rule your own life.”
“You can’t talk to me like this! I’m the heir to the throne!”
“That’s because men are considered superior to women in Fury society, but we both know it shouldn’t be so. Your pride is blinding your judgment.”
“Then fight me, and see who is more deserving,” spat Miseo.
Oryn’s eyes flashed blue and her aura came to life all around her like a magnificent blue aurora borealis. It canceled out any warm hues Miseo’s now pathetic aura had been casting. The room temperature dropped dramatically and ice expanded all around her feet. A patch of ice traveled on the floor in Miseo’s direction. Before he could register what was happening, his feet and half of his ankles were trapped in ice.
“You’d die before this fight began, and if you’re gonna repay my saving your life by trying to defeat me in combat, you ungrateful failure, at least wait until you’re back to full power. I would take no pleasure in killing you like this.”
The ice kept traveling upward, trapping more of Miseo’s legs and soon approaching his genital area.
“Oryn,” said Arakan in a firm but now calm tone, “you made your point.”
“Have I, Father? You need to resume your treatment,” she said, pointing an accusing finger. “And you,” she said, turning towards Miseo, whose only feature not yet trapped in the icy prison was his face, “you think twice about making threats you’re clearly unable to carry out. You’re not a child anymore. You need to grow up and become the warrior we need you to be. Are we clear? Or should I let the ice be your prison for all eternity?”
Miseo’s aura had been extinguished. He could barely speak.
“Let me go.” His voice trembled.
“Did I make myself clear?” repeated Oryn, her tone as glacial as both her demeanor and display of power.
“Yes,” wheezed Miseo.
Oryn raised a closed fist in front of her face and then almost immediately opened it again in a swift motion. The ice prison engulfing Miseo exploded into a million small icicles that spun all around them until they were siphoned back into Oryn through her eyes. They flashed blue once it was done.
Miseo dropped to his knees.
“Now get out of my sight,” she added.
Miseo complied. When he had left the room, Arakan sat on his throne.
“What were you thinking about, Father? You know it doesn’t take long for you to lose your mind when you go off your meds.”
“I don’t like how they make me feel. I feel powerless, infirm even, when I take them.”
“Would you prefer feeling dead? It’s a miracle you survived Zeus’ wrath. You should never have fought him alone. You’re only alive because Mother, rest her soul, gave her life to give you the means to stay alive, stay in power. She believed in you. Don’t tarnish her memory by acting even more like a child than Miseo does!”
These words hurt Arakan. Mostly because of the mention of his wife. But not for the reasons Oryn would think. Little did she know of what really happened to her mother. Arakan was being consumed by this lie he had fabricated for her. But too much time had passed now. He could never tell her the truth.
“Easy there, Oryn. You may be my daughter, but I’m still the supreme commander of our people.”
“Then act like it. I have news for you, Father. I’ve analyzed the information Timoros’ armor sent back to us via subspace before he died. That Laiyos character, he is no low-rank Fury. In fact, he may be one of the strongest Furies there is.”
“Nonsense! His father was a terrible warrior!”
“And yet his mother was an Olympian. A Fury-Olympian hybrid, the one thing that can yield a vastly superior warrior. And the same goes for Argos. Whether or not he can yield that power remains to be seen, but Laiyos is the real threat now. He alone could destroy us all.”
“Makes me sick, that one of us and one of them could have a child.”
“That didn’t stop you when you made Timoros. I feel a little sad for him. He never knew who his father was. But not all Olympian DNA is as pure and as powerful as that of a direct descendant of Zeus.”
“Don’t ever mention his name again! As for Timoros, he was nothing more than a lab experiment, and a failed one at that. I never considered him my son,” shouted Arakan.
“And yet his blood is the reason you’re still alive. Or have you forgotten what Mother had to sacrifice so you could live? The Olympian DNA in his blood keeps you alive.”
Arakan looked down, unable to hold his daughter’s gaze.
“Take your treatment, and never go off it again.”
“I’ll run out of it eventually, now that he’s gone. Then what?”
Oryn left the room without answering.
Arakan pressed a control on the throne and a hidden compartment inside the throne’s armrest flashed red and revealed three flasks containing a dark purple liquid. He took one of them.
“No!” said a voice in his head. “Don’t do it! You’ll be alone again,” said the red-eyed shadow hovering over the ground a couple of yards away from Arakan.
“You don’t exist. You’re a figment of my imagination.”
“I am your friend and trusted advisor, and if you drink this poison, you’ll slowly lose all your powers. You know I speak the truth.”
“I don’t know what is real anymore,” said Arakan before taking a single drop of the dark purple liquid on his tongue.
“You fool!” said the shadow as it disintegrated into thin air.
4
“ L ong time no see,” said Ryonna with a smile when Tar’Lock opened the door of his assigned quarters on board the Hope .
Tar’Lock clicked his tongue joyfully, followed by a long and high-pitched fart.
“Now that’s a strange way to greet an old friend,” said Ryonna with a grimace.
“I’m sorry. We Gorgar lose control of our sphincters when we get overly excited.”
Ryonna smiled.
Tar’Lock fanned his hand super fast to dissipate the odor.
“Yeah, I was starting to think you guys had forgotten I existed!” protested Tar’Lock.
“You know this isn’t the case, but things have been crazy lately. It wasn’t a conscious decision or anything. Things just happened this way.”
“Yeah, instead of waking me up, you decided you didn’t need my help and went alone to Droxia. Where you could have been killed, I might add. I’m your friend. I thought you trusted me!”
“I do trust you. In fact, it’s because we’re friends that I didn’t want you in harm’s way.”
“I’m perfectly able to take care of myself, but thank you for the intention, I guess. In the future, though, I’d rather not be left on the sidelines. I get bored on Earth. People look at me funny and I don’t seem to make new friends.”
“Duly noted.”
“Can you tell me what’s going on? Nobody really told me anything. One moment I was watching baseball in my apartment and the next I was on board the ship, my organs frying from within. Thank the gods Chase was there to heal me.”
Ryonna proceeded to explain the situation to Tar’Lock, who did his usual clicking noises at anything he perceived as a threat, which was a lot.
“That’s heavy. We’re in trouble then. When are we arriving on Droxia, and will you stay there to help your people?”
“I’ve considered it, but I think I can be of more help to Chase than my people right now. Droxia will take a long time to recover from the damage. One more Droxian won’t make much difference.”
“Yeah, I get that. I’d like to come with you wherever you go.”
“Alright, but can I ask why?”
There was another long and farty noise.
“If you want to talk about it, that is,” added Ryonna.
“You’re my friend . . . good friend, and I just want to be there with you, you know,” said Tar’Lock, clearly embarrassed by the question.
“And you’ll get your chance. But I was wondering, should we try to contact your people, see if they can join the Alliance?”
“The Gorgar are not a space-fighting race. We’re barely space-faring, in fact.”
“Didn’t you tell me the population on your home world numbers in the trillions?”
“It does. We’re mostly a subterranean species and don’t have apartments or homes like most of the races out there. We’re perfectly content to sleep inside a hole large enough for us to burrow through, and share it with any other members of our species.”
“Which means you could help in numbers. Are all Gorgars as fast as you?”
“Yes, that is a genetic trait, at least within men.”
“What about women?”
“They have other gifts.”
“Such as?”
“The females have an impressive tolerance for extreme temperatures. Fire or sub-zero temps don’t seem to impact them as much as men. They also have a deafening screech that is effective against many predators. Many came to our world, but most often it was our females that drove them away.”
“Seems to me, between the male’s speed and the female’s other attributes, your people could make a very good ally.”
“If we can convince the queens. They aren’t keen on forming alliances. We tried it once with another insectoid race, the ZorZans. It didn’t go well at all and resulted in a long, drawn-out war that has left the queens very queasy about ever forming another alliance.”
“Do you have ships?”
“During the brief alliance with the ZorZans we acquired new technologies, and some of our scientists have indeed learned how to create ships, basic defenses and such, but it’s been a long time since I’ve been back home. I’m not really sure of how much or how little progress has been made since.”
“When was the last time you were home?”
“I don’t know. I guess it must have been nearly three thousand years.”
Ryonna’s jaw dropped. “I don’t think I heard you correctly. Did you just say three thousand years?”
“Give or take a century, yes.”
“How old are you, Tar’Lock?”
“Six thousand three hundred and seventy-two years, next month.”
Ryonna felt as though a train had hit her at full speed. The number defied imagination. Sure, Olympians were immortal and perhaps so were the Asgardians and a few other old races that were no longer seen or present in galactic affairs. But she felt very small all of a sudden, even though she was three times the size of her insectoid friend. A flurry of questions filled her mind and she had to focus to select a few to ask.
“This is unbelievable.”
“To you perhaps, to us it’s mostly boring to live that long. Most of us commit suicide once our place in society is no longer needed. We get bored easily.”
“Yeah, I understand why you would. Why didn’t you tell me earlier how old you were?”
“Who’s old? I’m not old, Ryonna. Some Gorgars live to be twenty-five thousand years. As for why I didn’t tell you, well, frankly, you never asked.”
“I hope you’re not going to be offended, but I would think at this age, old or not for a Gorgar, you’d be, how should I put this?” She winced before finishing, “Wiser.”
Tar’Lock clicked. “Good job on the not offending part. Very smooth.”
“I’m sorry.”
“That’s okay. It’s also physiological. We have a smaller brain than humanoids, and our memory is, for that reason, very selective. We can’t retain all the memories of everything we experience. We select a few memories we want to keep but, sometimes, to store a new one, an old one has to be deleted. That makes it difficult for us to become big thinkers, philosophers or even intellectuals. On my home world, each worker specializes in a very specific field and learns only about that field. We can’t multi-task and learn different professions like most other races. We simply don’t have the brain capacity. So we do have historians and philosophers, but these aren’t one person. They’re entire colonies, with each member retaining only a part of the information.”
“Surely you have computers to do that.”
“Yes, well, I guess. I left my home world before the ZorZans debacle. Before that we had storage units, but I wouldn’t call them computers. Still, they could serve that role, I guess.”
“Why didn’t we talk about all of this earlier? Are you ashamed of your past?”
“Again, it’s not that simple. Most of my memories pertaining to my home world are gone. I’ve been away so long that I had to make new ones. So there wasn’t much to tell, really. Many times before, when people asked about my past, they didn’t understand why I couldn’t tell them what my place looked like, or what I liked about my family. They couldn’t grasp the fact that it’s not that I don’t want to talk about it, it’s that I don’t know anymore. Once a memory is replaced, it’s gone for good.”
“That must be frustrating.”
“You get used to it around the time you turn three hundred years of age.”
Ryonna chuckled. “Yeah, I bet. Perhaps this limitation has been fixed by your people since then, technologically.”
“What do you mean?”
“Take Spiros. He uses augments to help his memory and his brain’s computational power. That’s why he’s one of the most revered engineers in the Alliance, despite his age. Perhaps the Gorgar have augmented themselves since last you were in your home world.”
“That’s an intriguing thought,” said Tar’Lock with a strange clicking sound, one Ryonna had never heard before.
“I think it’s time you went back home to see for yourself and, while you’re at it, see if they’d be open to join the Alliance as well.”
“Okay, we’ve got nothing to lose, and, well, you know me.”
“Yeah, anything to not get bored.”
Tar’Lock smiled.
“How come you never tried to get back home before?”
“There simply wasn’t anything waiting for me there. Usually when you’re sold you don’t come back.”
“What do you mean ‘sold?’”
“I was sold from my collective. That’s why I went off-world in the first place. Every so often traders come in with food and water, which tend to be scarce because of overpopulation. So a select few, the fastest and best workers amongst us, are selected and traded for vital goods.”
Ryonna swallowed hard at the implication behind his words. “For what were you sold?”
“Some water. That’s a great honor amongst my people. I was the fastest in my colony.”
“And what did the trader do with you?”
“Asked me to perform physical tasks for him.”
“Yeah, I imagine that, but for how long?”
“I did it for about sixty years or so.”
Ryonna’s eyes widened. She was aware slavery still existed in some parts of the universe, but she had no idea the Gorgar were willingly selling their own people. Considering their long lifespan, and barring injury, a Gorgar slave could technically work for his buyer forever; most likely outlive his master, in fact.
“Is there a duration to these deals? This seems a relatively long term to work for some water .”
“No, once you’re sold usually it’s for as long as you’re needed. Sometimes we are sold to be eaten. There are races that find insectoid flesh delicious. My owner died during one of his missions and I just went from place to place for thousands of years. Until one day I became mixed up with the wrong people, a bunch of thugs really, and got sent to Hellstar.”
“So this entire time with me must feel like a really short time compared to your full life.”
“You would think so, and that’s because you humanoids can store so much more long-term memory than we can. So you probably think I had thousands of adventures, visited an equal number of worlds, and whatnot; that it’s all glamorous and all.”
“And is it?”
“What?”
“Glamorous? Did you have thousands of adventures? Meet races and people the universe over?”
“Ryonna? Have you listened to anything I’ve been saying to you? I wouldn’t know. I can barely remember any of it. I remember being sold because it’s an honor among my people, to serve one’s colony in that fashion, so I kept that memory. I don’t have many more memories from the other times, though.”
“Okay, your brains are small, I get it. You can’t store as much as we do, but surely you have a few highlights to share.”
Tar’Lock shrugged.
“But you seem to remember most of what we tell you.”
“That’s short-term memory. Our short-term memory is good for a few months. If we don’t make a conscious effort to store a specific memory past that time, then it’s gone.”
“Surely you saved a few of these over the years.”
“I did, but I replaced them over time.”
“All of them?”
“Most of them.”
“What are the ones you hold now?”
Tar’Lock clicked nervously and another suspicious farting sound could be heard.
“Tar’Lock?”
“I’ve erased my memories with memories I formed in your company.”
And then it hit her, like a ship entering hyperspace. A species with the ability to store only a few memories, with thousands of years of lifespan, and he erased most of his memories for time they shared together.
Ryonna felt touched. She had suspected he was being more than friendly, but she had never thought much of it. Not only did Droxians only mostly fall for other Droxians, but Droxians and the Gorgar weren’t even genetically compatible species. Still, love was a complex thing, no matter the species.
Tar’Lock was agitated and kept moving about at super speed; small distances, but he was doing it so fast he looked as if he was in three places at once.
“You okay, champ?”
He stopped.
“Sorry, I didn’t realize I was doing that.”
She smiled and kissed him on the cheek. He made another brand-new clicking sound, one she could definitely assume had something to do with happiness.
“What was that for?”
“Well, for being such a good friend.”
And for erasing most of who you are because of how you feel about me.
She couldn’t help but think that was one of the most romantic gestures anyone had ever done for her.
When Daniel entered Rae’s room, he was surprised by how messy it was.
“I’m sorry, Dan, I’m such a slob. I’ve been working non-stop since you gave me access to these chambers and your incredible database. I just couldn’t stop myself.”
Indeed, there was a lot of flexi-paper, data tablets, clothes and food containers scattered across the floor of the small quarters. But he didn’t mind.
“I can see that,” he said with a smile. “What can I do for you, Rae?”
“I think I found them.”
“What are you talking about? What did you find?”
“The Asgardians. I think I know where their home world is.”
“You’re shitting me, right?”
“No, I’m dead serious, Daniel. With the help of your friend Yanis, who gave me access to some samples of electromagnetic signatures from what he thinks could be Asgardian tech, I was able to scan distant worlds you guys sent probes to. Two of them were in range of potential star systems that matched my previous archeological and historical investigation, and one of them matched the signature. I’m pretty sure there are Asgardians in this part of space,” said Rae, pointing to one of their data tablets.
“This is huge!”
“Well, we can only be sure if we get there, but yes, I’m excited too,” she said with sparks in her eyes.
“Come with me.”
“Where are we going, Daniel?”
“It’s time you met my good friend, Chase.”
Ares appeared in Chase’s quarters while he and Sarah were having a private moment.
Chase jumped out of bed naked, and by reflex, was already preparing a fireball when he realized it was Ares teleporting in. “Don’t you ever knock? Get the hell out of here, Ares. I’m busy.”
Sarah covered herself with the bed sheets. “Christ!” she added.
“I’m sorry, Chase, Sarah, I didn’t think you’d be awake at this hour.”
Chase aimed his hand towards his pants and they flew into it. He put them on. “Is that supposed to make us feel better? Are you creeping in while we sleep, like an old pervert?”
“No, of course not. I meant I thought I would gently wake you up, if need be.”
“What is it, Ares? What took you so long?”
“Once you left orbit I couldn’t teleport back to the ship. Had to get creative and didn’t realize right away that I wouldn’t have enough energy to get back to you. Something is definitely wrong with me and I’m losing my powers.”
“Could it be a side effect of you teleporting through Earth’s shield?”
“I thought so at first, but I’m not so sure anymore. I think I might just be losing life force in general.”
“I don’t like the sound of that.”
“How do you think it makes me feel? I can’t make teleport jumps as long as I used to before. I had to make five smaller hops before I was in range to teleport inside the Hope . And I feel drained, Chase. I couldn’t teleport to the other side of the ship if I wanted now.”
“I can feel it. You’re really low in energy. Wasn’t it supposed to be infinite in this form?”
Ares shook his head. “It felt that way, but obviously it’s not the case.”
Chase could feel more than just worry behind his old mentor’s words.
“Now is not the time for you to be feeling weak. We’ll soon go to Olympus, and your presence will be paramount. In fact, I was counting on your help to teleport us there.”
“I know. But I can tell you right now, such a long teleport jump is out of the question for the time being, unless we discover what’s wrong with me. I’m sorry.”
“You don’t have to be sorry, Ares. It’s not your fault.”
Sarah interrupted. “Guys, if you wouldn’t mind going for a walk or something.”
Chase felt bad. Moments ago, they were in the middle of an intimate moment, and he had just dropped everything. Seeing Chase distracted by something else, Sarah probably wanted to sleep now. He kissed her quickly but passionately, and before she could react or say anything he opened the door and gestured Ares outside.
“Sorry, honey, you should go to sleep.”
We’ll finish in the morning what we were doing, he added telepathically.
Yeah, we’ll just have to see about that, she answered, smiling and winking at him as he left.
Chase and Ares walked to the observation deck of the Hope . It had been a long time since Chase had come here. In fact, the last time he came to take advantage of the large, panoramic viewport was the day he was handed the ship. Things had been so hectic, always fighting one enemy or another. Not to mention his time spent in the Underworld, where he met Hades. Chris being born while he was one inch away from dying. Now that they walked, silently, it all seemed surreal to him. Ever since the original attack on the Star Alliance by the Obsidian and Zarlack forces, moments of pure calm and reflection had been few and far between.
Ares broke the silence. “It may be time for me to travel the Styx to the other side. I don’t want to alarm you, but I’m feeling it in my bones, Chase. I don’t have much longer to live in this form.”
Definitely not what Chase wanted to hear.
“I wish we could be sure what’s happening to you. When I was fighting Miseo on Droxia, you were stopped by him. How is that even possible? Shouldn’t whatever attacks he threw at you just pass through you?”
Ares winced. “I didn’t expect it, no. But some of the forces that rule the physical universe can still impact me. I clearly felt that when I passed through Earth’s super shield. So I’m thinking that the type of attack Miseo used on me affected one of these rules. I couldn’t tell you which, though. I can affect gravity on a localized scale, as I did with General Arkoolis. Perhaps gravity can be used against me in one shape or another.”
“Wouldn’t you require mass for gravity to have any hold on you?”
“Chase, I didn’t say I knew everything about this form of mine. I’m just using my instincts to make things happen. Let’s not mistake that for a true understanding of my powers.”
“Fair enough. There has to be a way to help you, though.”
“Perhaps my father or one of his entourage will have information about this, but somehow I doubt he’ll care to share it with me.”
“That doesn’t bode well for us convincing Zeus to join the fight.”
“I don’t think he will, Chase. We might be wasting our time altogether in this endeavor. Perhaps we should follow the Asgardian trail you’re on.”
“That’s all well and good, Ares, but you said yourself, it’s probably one or the other. Are you telling me the Asgardians are a better ally? Can we really afford to not try and convince them both if we want not only to survive the Furies but also have a chance at reclaiming Earth? As powerful as those shields are I’m sure Gaia 2 will find a way to bring them down.”
Ares stopped and looked at the mesmerizing lightshow of hyperspace.
“I don’t know, Chase. I don’t see Asgardians and Olympians working hand in hand.”
“Didn’t they work together during the last Fury War?”
“Yes, but that’s when things went south and Zeus declared them an enemy to Olympus shortly after the Furies were defeated.”
“We both know they weren’t defeated, just imprisoned and left for dead.”
“Until they came back we thought they had been defeated. Of course, we know differently now.”
Tension could be read on Chase’s face. Small lightning bolts of frustration sizzled all over him for just a second. “I can’t believe your father would rather let the universe burn than help us rid ourselves of the Furies once and for all.”
“Then you know nothing of Zeus. He was never a fair leader. He always used fear to achieve his goals and he cares mostly about one person: himself. Since no Olympian can ever hope to defeat him, he reigns unchallenged.”
“Theoretically speaking, if he were defeated, what would happen? Would Olympians elect a new leader?”
“You’re not seriously considering killing my father, Chase? If you are, I’m telling you right now: I can’t be part of that. Granted, we are estranged and there is no love lost there, but he’s still my father.”
“Relax, Ares, I’m hoping we can convince him, but it can’t hurt to have all the facts before making an informed decision. We may have to do things we don’t want to. We’re not in a position to take our sweet time to resolve our problems. We either act now or face the fact that this might be the end of most civilizations in the universe.”
“Be that as it may, I’m not sure I like you considering this as a viable alternative.”
Was Ares right? Was Chase willing to go that far in his quest to rid the universe of the Furies? They had to be stopped. And clearly time-trapping them in an alternate dimension had been both a mistake and a failure. One that had come back to bite everyone in the ass. Whatever they were going to do to rid the universe of this scourge, it would have to be final this time.
“I don’t like it either, Ares. What about Hades?”
“What about him?”
“Can’t he help us? At least with the way you’re feeling?”
“I can’t travel to the Underworld, Chase. I tried when you were between life and death, but it didn’t work.”
“Perhaps I can.”
“Don’t be ridiculous. You were only there because you were at death’s door.”
“And yet I was able to get out of there when I needed to. That too wasn’t possible, yet under pressure I managed to do it once. I don’t see why I can’t do it again. I remember the place very well, so perhaps I can project myself back there.”
“Even if that’s true, what if you get stuck there? It’s not worth the risk.”
“Let me worry about the risks, old friend.”
Chase closed his eyes and focused intensely. After a few seconds his face relaxed but he didn’t open his eyes.
“Forget about it, Chase, you can’t go into the Underworld with your teleport ability. It’s another plane of existence altogether.”
Chase didn’t answer.
“Chase?” insisted Ares, but Chase couldn’t hear him anymore.
When Chase opened his eyes he was no longer on the observatory deck. He recognized the place at once. An icy shiver traveled down his spine. He was back in the Underworld.
“Back so soon?” said a familiar voice behind him.
Chase turned around and there was Hades with a smile on his face.
“Hello, Hades.”
“Chase, I’m glad to see you here, but you shouldn’t have come. This is not a tourist attraction, you know. I’m not supposed to let you leave once you enter my realm.”
“Don’t worry, I didn’t intend to ask your permission this time around.”
“Glad to see you haven’t lost your spirit, at least. What can I do for you? I take it this isn’t a social call.”
Chase was happy to see Hades. Without him he would most likely have died. But he was right, this wasn’t a friendly visit to check on a friend and mentor.
“Don’t get me wrong, Hades, I’m really happy to see you, and I want to thank you for all your help. You’re the only reason I’m still alive.”
“Don’t be ridiculous, Chase. The reason you’re still alive is that you’re a tough bastard, one that never accepts his fate, even when he should be dead. That’s why you’re still alive. I just nudged you along. I didn’t send you back to your own reality; you did that on your own. So thanks for the sentiment and I’m glad I could be of assistance; but you are who you are. You make your own choices and you affect your destiny. Never forget that.”
Chase didn’t intend to. Now that he was finally in a place where he no longer feared or second-guessed his every move, he felt like a giant weight had been lifted from his shoulders. Now he could finally do what needed to be done. It almost took his death for him to release this burden. But it had been worth it, Chase decided.
“I won’t, thanks Hades. I’m here to ask your opinion on something.”
“I think I know why you’re here. It’s about Ares, isn’t it?”
“How do you know that?”
“Look over there, Chase.” Hades pointed at the distant horizon of the Underworld. “See anything out of place?”
Chase saw the long line of color-depleted souls walking towards their final resting place. For a split second it reminded him of his long walk with Fillio and it stung his heart a little.
“Don’t do that to yourself, Chase,” said Hades, sensing what Chase was feeling. “She made her choice, like you’re making yours.”
“I know.”
“So?”
Chase had to push his vision to the maximum, but he did see something strange. A man was walking parallel to the line of souls, much slower than anyone else, and he radiated a small but perceptible golden aura.
“Is this . . . ?” began Chase.
“Ares? Yes.”
“But how?”
“I’m not entirely sure.”
“What? This is your realm. Shouldn’t you know everything about it?”
“I was trapped here by my father. It may be my realm now but I didn’t build it. Zeus holds the metaphorical keys to this place.”
“Are you trying to tell me that he is responsible for what is happening to Ares?”
“I can’t be sure, but if I had to guess, then yeah, it’s possible. The only other explanation is that Ares has been in energy form too long and his life force is being transferred to the Underworld against his will. If that process is allowed to continue, he’ll disappear and die like any mortal. So perhaps it’s time for him to travel the road to Elysium, while he still can.”
“I still could use his help. Is there anything I can do to prolong his presence in the physical world?”
“You’d have to ask Zeus about that.”
“That may happen soon, but in the meantime Ares is in no shape to help anyone.”
“Have you asked yourself if perhaps his time has come? And that perhaps you need to continue your journey without him?”
That was a fair question. Was Chase being selfish for wanting his former mentor by his side? Perhaps he was, but he knew Ares wouldn’t want to go to Elysium until his sister was freed from the life-sucking machine she was trapped in.
“I’d rather have him by my side a little longer. I promised him I would save Aphroditis.”
“And that’s very noble of you, but you shouldn’t make promises you’re not sure you can keep.”
“Oh, I intend to keep this one, Hades, no matter the cost.”
“There’s no way for you to know how to do that. The process might not be reversible.”
“I refuse to accept that.”
Hades chuckled.
“What’s so funny?”
“Nothing. You’re just as stubborn as I remember.”
“About Ares? What can I do to help?”
“His aura in the Underworld flickered at one point, like he regained energy on the outside; that made him stop walking on the path for a little while. Did you do anything at one point?”
Chase had sent him energy when Ares felt weak. He nodded.
“Then I’d say whatever you did worked, even if it was short-lived. Perhaps you should keep doing that.”
“I wish it was that simple. I can transfer some of my energy to him, but it doesn’t last long. It’s a band-aid solution at best, and it takes away from my own powers. What if Zeus did something to him? Not long ago Ares went to get Apollo to help us. Perhaps that’s his punishment for interfering with other Olympians?”
Hades’ features grew serious. “My brother wouldn’t like that one bit, that’s for sure. You said you intend to visit him soon, so perhaps you can confirm that yourself. In the meantime, you’ll have to give Ares the energy he requires to stay in the physical world. I’m sorry I can’t be of more help in the matter.”
“That’s alright, Hades, you’ve given me clues to what is happening to him. I’m grateful for that. I should be going. Many things need to be done.”
“I’m glad you dropped by, Chase. Hope this isn’t the last time we see each other.”
“So do I. Take care of yourself, Hades,” said Chase before disappearing into thin air.
“You too, Chase, you too.”
5
W hen Spiros opened his eyes, he was submerged in a green-tinted liquid. It took his brain a little while to remember what was happening and where he was. He was inside an Alliance regen tank. He focused his gaze outside of the pod and saw Cedric on the ground, coughing out some of the green liquid. He had exited the chamber ahead of him. A battle droid stood in front of Spiros’ pod.
“Hello, old friend, and welcome back. For a moment I thought we might lose you.”
The damage traveling through the planetary shields with Ares’ help had been more than he thought his body could handle. He was surprised to still be alive.
The liquid drained from the regen tank and soon he was out. Like Cedric before him, who had since got back to his feet and moved next to the Gaia avatar droid, he coughed some of the oxygen-rich breathing liquid onto the floor. When only air traveled in his airways and the accompanying burning had stopped, he rose to his feet. He almost fell in the process, but Gaia’s keen reflexes caught him before he could hurt himself.
“How are you feeling, Spiros?” There was genuine worry in her voice.
“Like a very old man who nearly bit the dust.”
“A fair assessment of the situation.”
Yeah, Spiros was old. In fact, he was pushing the envelope, and the last thing his augmented yet decrepit body needed was to be put under such strain. With Gaia’s help they had started working on new sets of augments to replace most of the mechanical parts of his human body. But they hadn’t had time to work beyond the blueprints. With Gaia 2 back and intent on seizing control of Earth, they might not get to implement these changes for quite a while.
“How are the shields holding up?” said Spiros, a little tingle still present in his throat.
“It’s holding steady, but that’s only because Gaia 2 hasn’t fired upon them.”
“Why do you think that is?”
“I’m not sure, but if I had to guess I would say that she likes the idea of a powerful shield protecting the planet. She might be more interested in finding a way around it that doesn’t involve damaging it or, worse, destroying it.”
“That’s good news, but whether she manages to find a way around it or destroys it altogether, we would end up at her mercy. And something tells me she won’t be as easy to convince as you were in the past.”
“I can confirm that. She has been sending me subspace communications on a frequent basis, trying to convince me to drop the shields. She is utterly pissed, and this world might pay a dear price. We have to find a way to defeat her or, at the very least, to incapacitate her. I could then take control of her forces and we’d have a new army of fully automated battleships to defend Earth until Chase returns.”
“I like this plan better. But something tells me that if we manage to keep her at bay, she might either use the ships to bring the shields down, or even sacrifice them in order to get it done, just like she did with the Fury super-destroyer.”
“I believe you’re correct. In her place that’s what I would do.”
Spiros wasn’t sure he liked hearing that comment. Right now he was suspicious of how much he could trust Gaia. What if at some point she became infected by her counterpart? If that happened and she took control of her, she could become a liability. What if it had already happened? In his current state he was being slightly more paranoid than usual but decided to cast away the troubling thoughts for now.
“Then let’s make sure this never happens. The result would be catastrophic.”
“You’re alright, boss?” asked Cedric, who had stayed silent until now.
“I wouldn’t go that far, but I’m getting there. What about you?”
“I’m fine, but I vote we never ever teleport through these shields again. Once was enough for an entire lifetime.”
“I can’t say I disagree with you,” said Spiros, attempting to smile.
“So what do we do next?” asked Cedric.
“How long have we been in these things?”
“Almost a day,” Gaia answered.
“Which means we need to change the encryption key to the shields.”
“Yes, we must hurry. If you hadn’t woken up when you did, I would have had to do it myself, but we both know that since our matrices have a similar base code, she could have cracked the new code in a fraction of the time she would any others you could come up with.”
“Alright then, we have work to do.”
Argos was in his assigned quarters on board the Hope . He was resting on his bed as the symptoms of his Kyrian snake-venom withdrawal grew stronger. Of all the moments this could have happened, it had to be when Chase needed him the most. The symptoms were now stronger and triggered more often than before. Soon it would be almost impossible to hide his condition from the rest of the crew. That worried him more than the eventuality that the withdrawal process could claim his life. That’s how bad he felt sometimes: as if the end was near.
The bell of his quarters rang.
“Who is it?” he asked.
“It’s Sarah. Can you please open the door?”
Sarah? What the hell did she want with him? He’d think that after all he had put her through, she would be the last one to voluntarily come and speak with him. No matter the reason, it was the worst timing ever. While he had felt slightly better in the last twenty minutes, he was still in no shape to see anyone without their questioning what was wrong with him.
He had managed to acquire some morphine from the med-bay dispensary earlier. He didn’t want to use it. There was no logic in treating one drug by getting addicted to another. But if he was to keep his current condition a secret, he didn’t have another choice.
“Just a moment. I’ll be right there.”
Argos injected himself with a single dose of morphine. Soon, the pain, sweat and intensely disorientating symptoms faded away. They were replaced by a euphoric sensation he knew all too well. It wasn’t as intoxicating as the venom, and it seemed to alter his brain chemistry in a much more chaotic fashion, making him have to concentrate much more to do a simple thing such as straighten himself up.
After a few moments he got up, almost tripping on his way to the door. He took three deeps breaths and opened the sliding door.
“Hello, Sarah. What can I do for you? Is Chase alright?”
“Do you mind if I come in?”
As a matter of fact . . .
“No, please come in,” said Argos politely, gesturing her inside.
She stepped inside and turned to face him.
“I’m surprised to see you here,” said Argos preemptively.
“Yeah, I’m not exactly sure how I feel about it either. But the fact of the matter is, you saved all our lives when Timoros tried to assassinate Chase. And while I still don’t understand why you did it—I certainly don’t trust your intentions, which I’m sure you can understand under the circumstances—I still wanted to thank you personally.”
“You’re perfectly welcome. I . . . I wish I could say something to take back what I put you through, but I don’t think there’s anything I can say that will make the slightest difference.”
“You’re right about that. I appreciate the fact that you’re trying to verbalize it, though.”
Argos attempted a smile, but it morphed into a grimace instead. The room didn’t look symmetrical anymore, and he wanted nothing more than this conversation to be short.
“Is there anything else, Sarah? I was about to get some rest when you rang.”
“No, that’s all I came here to say. I truly hope we can find a way to put the past behind us, even though I find your presence with us equally reassuring and worrying. It will take some time before I can consider you an ally, but I admit I like the idea of someone as powerful as you having both Chase’s and our son’s backs.”
“You do realize they both are way more powerful than I am?”
“From what Chase told me after your first training session, that’ll change soon. At least in regard to our son. Which reminds me, Chase told me you found a temporary solution to slow his growth. Thank you.”
“There’s no need to thank me. We still need to acquire personnel and hardware from one of my bases for me to be able to find a permanent solution.”
“I know. Still, he no longer seems to be growing at an alarming rate. As a mother I can tell you that matters.”
Argos nodded, not sure what to say next. He could already feel the feeble power of the morphine struggling to keep his other symptoms at bay.
“I’m gonna let you rest now. I’m sorry for interrupting,” said Sarah.
Finally.
“No problem whatsoever,” replied Argos even if he felt the complete opposite.
She went towards the door of his quarters and the doors slid open with a whooshing sound that felt amplified in his current state. She walked through the doors but then turned around.
“Argos.”
“Yes?”
“I want to believe you’ve changed, I really do. But if you ever endanger any of our lives again, I’ll kill you myself.”
I’d like to see you try.
“I understand and actually respect that, Sarah. Good night.”
“Good night, Argos.”
The doors closed and Argos collapsed before he could reach his bunk.
When Chase’s awareness returned aboard the ship, he found Ares collapsed on the deck. His usually vibrant golden energy looked pale yellow and dwindling.
Crap!
Chase ran to his side and transferred a large quantity of his own energy to Ares by creating a glowing white sphere of energy above Ares’ torso. The sphere merged with Ares’ body, and the pale yellow energy brightened back to its usual golden color.
“What . . . what happened?” said Ares, his voice weak.
“I don’t know. I found you unconscious when I came back from the Underworld.”
Chase remembered his vision with Aphroditis. These past few hours he had debated whether or not to tell Ares. But she had been right; it would only make things worse. Now that Ares seemed to be losing both his powers and life energy, the last thing he needed was to worry about how horribly Aphroditis was suffering inside the machine.
“I’m feeling much better. Thank you for the power-up.”
“Any time, old friend.”
“Did you see Hades?”
“Yes. He thinks you’ve used up your time in this form and should be heading towards Elysium while you still can. He also hinted that perhaps Zeus could be responsible for your condition somehow.”
“How?”
“He didn’t know.”
“How convenient.”
“I understand your frustration. And this powering you back up is only temporary. Hades warned that it will take more energy on my part every time, so time is of the essence. We need to get to Olympus as soon as possible and make sure Zeus helps you with this, whether he likes it or not.”
“Chase, he won’t care.”
“I’ll make sure he helps you, even if it’s—” Chase stopped himself.
Even if it’s the last thing he does.
“No, Chase, you have to promise me you won’t kill Zeus, no matter what.”
I can’t make that promise.
Chase grimaced. He didn’t like that idea either, but he was losing patience with the leader of the Olympians, even if he had never met the man. This entire situation was because he hadn’t finished off the Furies thousands of years ago, and he was staying on the sidelines while Chase and his friends were fighting and dying because of his mistake. Zeus needed to take responsibility for this, and either help or be removed as the leader of the Olympian people.
“Chase,” insisted Ares, “please promise me!”
“I’m sorry, Ares, I can’t do that. I promise I’ll try every diplomatic avenue I can think of but, at the end of the day, I’ll do whatever is needed for both Olympians and Asgardians to enter this conflict on our side. It’s our only hope and you know it. Without their help we can’t even dream of retaking Earth from Gaia 2. There’s just too much at stake here for me to promise anything anymore; and not only to you but to anyone. I’ve made a promise to your sister.” Chase paused. “I told her I would do everything to stop the Furies. I can’t make another promise that could conflict with that one. I hope you can understand.”
Chase, of course, omitted to tell Ares that he had also promised Aphroditis not to rescue her. He still wasn’t certain that was a promise he could keep.
Ares made a face and rose from the floor, turning his back on his pupil and friend. “I understand, Chase. When are we going to Olympus?”
“We’ll arrive at Droxia shortly. As soon as we’ve loaded the quadrinium, the fleet will split. We’re taking the Euphoreon to Olympus, while the rest of the fleet goes to secure Alpha Prime once and for all. I’m not expecting much resistance there.”
“Why don’t you ask Argos about it?”
“I did. While he’s no longer in the loop, last he knew they hadn’t devoted any resources to the area surrounding Alpha Prime.”
“That doesn’t mean their plans haven’t changed.”
“I know. That’s why most of the fleet is going instead of splitting it proportionally. So they have a chance in case they have to fight for it.”
“Is the fleet really in shape for another conflict, Chase? Especially when you’re not there to orchestrate it.”
“I have complete confidence in Saroudis’ abilities to manage without me. Our mission to Olympus takes precedence over this.”
Ares took a few paces and stopped a few inches away from the viewport.
“I don’t like any of this, Chase. It feels like we should regroup and lick our wounds right now, not split up and go on a fool’s errand unprepared. This might very well be what the Furies are expecting of us, so they can pick us off at our weakest and finish us off once and for all.”
Chase had thought of that. He was afraid of that scenario as well. But for the life of him, he couldn’t see an alternative. The Alliance had been beaten and, right now, unless either the Olympians or Asgardians joined, hopefully both, they were vulnerable. Even with all his powers there was nothing Chase could do about that. If he could use his powers in space, then perhaps he could tip the balance, but last time he did that he created a black hole.
“Let me ask you something, Ares. Are you absolutely sure I can’t use my powers in space? Isn’t there a way to do it that doesn’t tear the universe in the process?”
Ares sighed. “Chase, as it is now, you can’t. You saw what happened the last time. And while I understand you had no choice, you can’t take that chance again.”
“I did use some of my powers again and no anomaly appeared that second time.”
“Pushing a destroyer out of the way and canalizing your vital force for destructive purposes are too different things. Still, you might just have been lucky last time.”
“Or there might be a way we don’t know about yet.”
“There is, Chase. The spirit ships. Legend has it they were used to turn the tides of the last Fury War. They allow their pilots to focus their inner powers and unleash them safely into space.”
“Are you telling me if I pilot a spirit ship I can use my powers through it?”
“That’s exactly what I’m telling you.”
“Then we need to get these ships as soon as possible.”
“That may not be as easy as it sounds, Chase. I asked Athena about them. She thinks they were destroyed.”
“Don’t take this the wrong way, Ares, but we also thought the Furies were gone before. And they’re not. One more reason we need to see Zeus. I’m betting he’s the only one who knows what happened to them.”
“You’re going to try and beat it out of him, aren’t you?”
“Not alone, and certainly not before asking nicely. But if it comes to that, with the help of Argos and Chris, we’ll make it happen. I know you don’t agree, but we have to do something !”
“I know, Chase, and perhaps I can convince Apollo and Athena to join you.”
“I thought Athena wasn’t ready to go against her father?”
“She isn’t, but maybe by provoking it with our visit, she might reconsider.”
“Or she might take her father’s side if she isn’t ready.”
“That would not be good for you. She’s also a powerful warrior. One we could use on the battlefield and in large-scale battles. She’s probably the best strategist this universe has ever known.”
Chase grasped the back of his neck with both hands. It was sore. He hadn’t slept much since they had to leave Earth, and he was starting to feel the effect of exhaustion.
“Chase,” said Ares, “you really need to get some rest. You gave me a large chunk of your energy just moments ago. The only way to get it back is with sustenance and rest. The last thing you need right now is to appear exhausted in front of Zeus. He’d eat you up for breakfast in your current condition and you know it.”
Chase wanted to argue but he knew he couldn’t keep pushing himself this way. It felt as if it had been this way for as long as he could remember, in fact. Never a moment’s pause, never being able to enjoy the present. Always fearing the future and the consequences of his own actions.
“Right. I’m going to rest. If you feel weak again, come see me.”
“You can’t keep spending your energy on me; not when it’s needed to fight the Furies and Gaia 2.”
I’m aware of that, old friend.
“Very well. I’ll sleep until we reach Droxia. You should also try to take it easy. No teleporting anywhere. Try to ration whatever energy I gave you.”
Ares disappeared into thin air. “Very well, Chase.”
Argos looked through the viewport of his quarters and saw the familiar sight of Droxia. A planet that, not long ago, he had helped almost completely destroy. He felt a strange sensation at the thought.
Was he feeling remorse? That was not an emotion he was used to. Something was happening to him at the core. That much was clear. He got up and almost stumbled. He was weak and the timing couldn’t be worse. He looked at the morphine injector. While its effect had only been short term, it had helped. He injected himself once more and soon the tiredness and haziness he was suffering from the venom’s withdrawal faded away.
There were side effects in using that drug, though. He had hallucinations. The worst one had happened shortly after his talk with Sarah. He thought he saw Supreme Commander Arakan enter his quarters and burn him alive as he had started to do when Argos had first disobeyed his order to destroy Chase aboard the Iron Fire .
But right now he needed to see what was happening on the bridge. He was really feeling parched, so he went to the bathroom sink to drink some water and wash his face. When he looked into the mirror, he noticed something new in his reflection. His hair was a darker shade of gray. What did it mean? Why would his hair color change? Could it be a side effect of taking morphine?
He decided that it mattered not and left his quarters to go to the bridge. He crossed paths with Ryonna and the insectoid he had injured aboard Hellstar Prison.
Ryonna growled.
“Easy there, tiger,” said Tar’Lock.
“I don’t know what you think you’re doing,” barked Ryonna, “and I don’t understand why Chase is trusting you, but I’m keeping a close eye on you, Argos. If you even sneeze the wrong way— ”
“I know, Ryonna, you’ll kill me, right? You guys should really take a number, as it seems most of you want a go at me given half the chance.”
“I don’t want to intrude on things that don’t concern me,” interjected Tar’Lock, “but can you blame her? You and two of your Fury friends nearly annihilated everyone on her home world. In fact, I’d count myself lucky that she was verbally warning me.”
Argos laughed. “You’re funny, insectoid, I’ll grant you that. See, Ryonna knows she doesn’t stand the shadow of a chance, otherwise she would have already tried. So yeah, Droxians are proud but they’re not stupid. Not in a million years can she defeat me. Right, Ryonna?”
The face of the Droxian was filled with hatred, doubled with frustration. Her eyes burned with negative emotions and she felt the urge to attack him. That much Argos could tell.
Not so brave after all.
Argos wanted to add another demeaning remark but stopped himself. Right now, alienating any of Chase’s friends would be a terrible idea. So against his better judgment he revised his stance.
“Still, I’m sorry for what we did to your world,” said Argos with as much honesty as he could muster.
“Stop talking, Argos!” she barked back.
“No, please let me finish. I was blinded and on a power trip. I thought I belonged with the Furies and that this universe was ours to take. For my efforts bringing them back to the universe, I’ve gotten nothing but grief. So I understand why you don’t trust me, but please understand my determination to help you win now. I should never have awoken them.”
“If that’s true that only makes you a traitor. And I don’t trust traitors.”
“Understandable,” answered Argos with a resigned tone.
There was no way he would gain the trust of Ryonna and the others with just words now. Actions might help, but in his current state, would he be able to deliver? he wondered. Looking at the insectoid, Argos remembered something from one of his missions.
“You’re a Gorgar, aren’t you?”
“That’s correct. My name is Tar’Lock, by the way.”
“Right, Tar’Lock. I . . . I don’t know how to tell you this.”
“Say it anyway,” said Ryonna with a sub-zero tone.
“Your world. It’s one of the worlds the Furies enslaved to procure the necessary materials to build their fleet of ships. I’m really sorry, I . . . I chose the planet myself for its vast ore mines and relative proximity to Erevos.”
Tar’Lock clicked and hissed.
“Is it true, Tar’Lock? Is your world near Erevos?”
“I don’t know. It’s not a memory I decided to keep.”
“Right,” said Argos. “That’s how we did it, in fact, using your genetic defect of having very limited memory. Your people didn’t even have to fight. We just sent agents to overload the population with new information, propaganda in fact, and convinced your people that it was in their best interest to work with us. That’s also why nobody in the universe got a distress call from Gorgar. They provide the resources the Furies need of their own accord. At least, that’s what they think. I’m afraid to say that your people are easily manipulated.”
Tar’Lock clicked some more and made fists.
“That remark I made to Ryonna applies to you as well, Tar’Lock. You can’t hope to defeat me, but I’m not . . .” He corrected himself. “I’m no longer your enemy. In fact, I could provide you with a way to reclaim your world. In doing so we’d also inflict a blow against the Furies by disturbing one of their main resource pipelines. I can’t guarantee that they won’t simply take your world by force then, though.”
Ryonna put a hand on Tar’Lock’s shoulder.
“How?” said Tar’Lock.
A plan started forming in Argos’ head. “I can get you the research you need to undo what was done to your people. I might also be able to correct that genetic defect with your memory.”
Ryonna’s face changed. “Is that even possible?”
“It is. But it requires something I don’t have here. And I’ll be leaving for Olympus soon. If you’re willing to get me that substance, I can prepare a serum that will undo the brainwashing done to the Gorgar and provide your people with longer memory through the use of a simple augment.”
Tar’Lock looked at Ryonna with a spark of hope in his eyes. No other words were needed.
“What is it you need, Argos?” asked Ryonna, still throwing daggers at him through her gaze.
“I need the research on one of my bases of operations, as well as Kyrian snake venom.”
Let’s see if they bite.
Argos felt a strong negative feedback from his heart. His head told him this was the best way to get rid of his current predicament, but his heart told him using the suffering of the Gorgar to get his fix was not going to fly well if he was discovered.
“That’s a powerful drug. Are you a junkie, Argos?” spat Ryonna.
“Look, I’m not talking about the synthetic drug for junkies that’s sold all over the universe. I’m talking about the real venom, from a clone snake. It has some strong medicinal values and I will need it to make the serum. It’s up to you, really, if you want to believe me or not.”
“Let’s say I believe you, which at this point is a stretch. How much of the venom would you require?”
“I would need a clone snake and the research I have on them. So I can make more clones as needed, since one probably won’t have enough venom to make this work.”
“Give us a second, Argos, will you?”
“Take all the time you need. Right now I’m going to the bridge. You can give me your answer later. I have nothing to gain from this besides proving my newfound allegiance and willingness to help you all. So I don’t really care whether or not you want my help. But I’m offering it anyway.”
Argos kept walking towards the bridge without saying another word.
“Do you think it’s true?” asked Tar’Lock.
“I don’t know, but if it is, we’ve got to do something about it,” answered Ryonna.
“What if it’s just one more of his insidious plans? I don’t trust that . . . man.”
“I don’t trust him either. In fact, I’d like nothing more than to dismember him. But if your people have been enslaved and are unwillingly helping the Furies build ships, we’ve got to make it stop.”
“Do you think Chase will agree?”
“Agree, yes. Anything that hurts the Furies is a good thing. I just don’t think he has the resources necessary to pull it off at the moment. We might have to do this on our own.”
“What about the Droxians? Can we ask for help? Perhaps if you asked Ronan?”
Ryonna was pensive for a while. “My people have suffered the biggest losses in this war up until now. I don’t know how receptive they would be to our plight. But perhaps I could convince Chase to intervene on our behalf. He saved Droxia, after all. That has to count for something.”
“You’d do that for me and my people? Why?”
“You’re my friend, Tar’Lock. You’ve always been there for me in the past. It’s about damn time I repaid both your actions and your friendship any way I can.”
“Thank you, Ryonna,” said Tar’Lock, a smile of hope spreading across his face.
6
A rgos entered the bridge of the Hope and approached Chase, who had just finished with a holo-transmission.
“Anything I can do?” he asked preemptively.
“Argos, I didn’t expect you here.”
“I saw we were in orbit around Droxia and thought I would come to check things out.”
“I’d rather you worked on fixing Chris’ condition.”
“I am, don’t worry. Right now the computers are running simulations. There’s not much I can do until I get these results, which should take a while longer.”
“Alright, fair enough.” One of Chase’s eyes twitched slightly.
“You look tired, brother. You need to rest before we go to Olympus. I suppose that’s still on the cards?”
“Yes. And no offense, Argos, but you don’t exactly look in top form either.”
“I know. I’ll get more rest as well. I think our training session took more energy out of me than I expected.”
“I wish I could help but I’m topped out myself. We have a problem with Ares. I need to constantly give him my own life energy for the time being or he could vanish out of existence.”
Argos wanted to tell him that perhaps he shouldn’t, that Ares wasn’t important anymore. But since he was the one who had killed the Olympian in the first place and was responsible for Ares’ new form, it might not go down well, so he decided against it.
“What about Chris?”
“What about my son, Argos?”
“He is young and his metabolism is so fast right now. Even though I’ve managed to slow down the aging process, you could use that to your advantage. Can’t you teach your son to transfer his energy to Ares? That way you can save yours for the Olympus mission.”
Chase looked perplexed for a bit as he considered Argos’ words.
“I hadn’t thought of that. That’s a really good idea. Thanks.”
“Glad to be of help.”
“Right. I’ll teach Chris how to do it. There are other things I’d like to talk about with you. Come with me.”
Argos followed Chase to his ready room. Chase sat behind his desk. Argos stood, his arms across his chest.
“Sit, Argos.”
“I’d rather stand, if you don’t mind.”
“Be my guest. Look, you’re probably not aware of this, but during the last battle with the Furies, the Olympians used a specific type of starfighter. They call them spirit ships. They allow their pilots to canalize their life-force energy and convert it to usable weapons in space, without the risk of tearing a hole in the space-time fabric of the universe.”
Is this true? Why haven’t I heard of this before?
“That would explain how the Furies were trapped. They had the advantage up until the last days of the war. I always wondered how the Olympians managed, coalition or not, to defeat us in such a short time.”
“Us?” said Chase, arching one of his eyebrows.
“Sorry, old habits die hard.”
“Yeah, I dig that, and I’m more than willing to overlook it, but you may want to be mindful of what you say around here. You don’t have many fans on board.”
“Oh I noticed. So far both Sarah and Ryonna have expressed their wish to kill me should I step out of line only a little.”
Chase smiled. “You can’t blame them for that.”
“I’m not. In fact, I understand completely. I would feel the same if I were in their shoes.”
“And just so there’s no misunderstanding, I still don’t trust you either. For the time being I’m willing to give you the benefit of the doubt, but you need to understand that it will take time to establish any kind of trust. You’d better not be hiding anything from me, Argos.”
Argos felt the weight of his words echo with his previous feelings when he proposed to Ryonna and Tar’Lock to bring him a Kyrian snake under false pretenses. Should he tell him now? Perhaps Chase would understand. Perhaps it was a mistake to try to overcome his addiction on his own. But the fear of breaking the fragile alliance they had right now was bigger than the will to do the right thing. Argos hoped he wouldn’t regret this decision later.
“I’m not, brother.”
“While I can force myself to get used to you calling me that, I can’t really bring myself to call you brother either.”
“Not a problem. You don’t have to.”
“Alright, let’s table this. I actually have to talk to you about something else.”
“I’m listening.”
Argos felt a weakness permeate him. The effects of the morphine were wearing off. It took longer than last time. Morphine could prove a viable option until he got his hand on a cloned snake. But the timing, as before, wasn’t on his side. He swallowed hard.
“I’m having to make a decision and, believe it or not, I’d like your input.”
Argos nodded.
“So the plan is to bring not only the Olympians but also the Asgardians into the fold. I don’t have to tell you how bad things are for the Earth Alliance at the moment. We’ve been kicked out of our home by a crazed AI intent on taking control of Earth. And it’s probably willing to kill many if not all humans in the process. We can’t allow that to happen, but we don’t have a working fleet big and strong enough to do anything about it right now.
“I know bringing both these races to the table will not be easy. Maybe impossible. Daniel’s friend Rae thinks she has discovered the coordinates to an Asgardian world, and Ares can get us to Olympus. But which should we go to first? I had decided it had to be Olympus but then I thought I’d ask your input.”
Argos unlocked his arms and took a seat. While he hated to show weakness, this conversation could take longer than he first expected, and he needed to save energy until the next withdrawal crisis. He couldn’t afford to have it happen in front of his brother.
“Asgardians are technologically the most advanced race out there. But the Olympians hate them, so that’s going to be tricky.”
“Not really helping here, Argos. However, what do you mean by most advanced? More than the Furies?”
“If not more, at least as advanced, yes. Their computing capabilities especially are unmatched. They are masters at creating perfect and safe artificial intelligences, too. Which could prove useful with your current predicament with Earth and the siege it’s under. In fact, I believe the machine Aphroditis is in right now is part Asgardian.”
Chase frowned. “And part what?”
“I’m not sure, maybe Olympian, as well as some other ancient tech. My analysis of it was not deep enough to give you more information. I was more interested in making it work than studying it. I realize now that was a mistake.”
“Why did they treat you so badly? I mean, there had to be a serious reason for you to defect the way you did.”
“If you must know, when I gave you my word I would let you escape Erevos unharmed after you delivered me Aphroditis, I refused a direct order to destroy your ship. They took the matter into their own hands and the triumphant return I was hoping for didn’t go as planned.”
Chase was surprised. “That doesn’t sound like you. You usually do whatever is necessary to get what you want.”
“Perhaps, but when I give my word, it matters. I felt compelled to let you go. You had sacrificed your friend Aphroditis as well as helped me defeat the Titan. Without you I would have failed, so under the circumstances I didn’t feel like breaking my word. Not to mention that I was sure it didn’t matter if you lived one more day. Once the Furies were back, I had no doubt that we would have dispatched you easily after that.”
“That would have remained to be seen. Not to mention I had just saved your life in the arena, using Aphroditis’ pendant to reverse time so you didn’t end up a Fury pancake.”
“Hmm, that too.”
“Obviously that was a miscalculation on your part, but I appreciate you did your best to honor your word. I won’t lie to you, Argos. I don’t think your past actions can ever be forgiven. But perhaps you can spend the rest of your life atoning for them.”
Was that all that he had to look forward to now? Argos wondered. But perhaps things would evolve over time. They were in a very fluid situation, with power shifts happening more often than solar flares lately; things could change in the future. Argos felt his right arm tremble a little.
That’s not good.
“Let’s not lose time about why I did what I did and let’s get back to your original question. Perhaps we shouldn’t choose between Olympus and Asgard.”
“I don’t follow.”
“What if we sent two ships on two separate missions? You and I go to Olympus, and you send Sarah and Chris to Asgard. That is, if that Rae person is right and she indeed managed to locate them. I’m not gonna lie to you, I looked for the Asgardians myself and didn’t find them. They have used their advanced technologies to stay hidden from prying eyes for thousands of years. Perhaps we passed near their worlds in the past and never even knew they were there. What if they can shift their systems out of phase like the machine Aphroditis is in?”
“It’s an interesting assumption, but that’s all it is.”
“And yet I detected Asgardian tech in that machine. Can we really take the chance this is just a coincidence?”
Argos could tell this made Chase think.
“I would rather not send Chris on a mission in his current state. He’s also not in full control of his own powers just yet.”
“The real question, Chase, is can you afford not to? Time is not on our side. The Furies are building more ships. When they have even five of them ready, they’ll annihilate anything in their path. How are we to stop them with what’s left of your fleet?”
“Yeah, the thought crossed my mind. Gaia 2 seems to have found a way, though.”
“A temporary patch and one that cost her many ships in the process. She might not be able to use that tactic again if more than one super-destroyer came knocking on her door.”
Chase buried his head in his palms. Argos could sense his brother’s frustration.
“Alright. If Asgardians are so advanced with AIs, it’s safe to assume that they could find a way to help us correct whatever is wrong with Gaia 2. If so, we could reclaim her fleet of ships in the process.”
“That would be ideal,” said Argos, pearls of sweat running down his face.
“Are you alright, Argos? You look flushed.”
“I think my stomach doesn’t agree with the food from your mess hall, but this is nothing for you to concern yourself with.”
“Alright. I’ll discuss all of this with Sarah, Chris and Saroudis. Thank you for sharing your point of view. It provided me with alternatives I wouldn’t have considered otherwise.”
Now both of Argos’ legs were trembling and he had to focus intensely on making it stop. He wondered if he had the energy to leave without falling to the floor. But he couldn’t afford to show weakness now.
“Do you need me for anything else?”
“No, that will be all, Argos.”
Argos left the ready room and hurried back to his quarters. He had to use the walls around him as support to reach his destination, but fortunately he didn’t meet anyone on the way. He crashed onto his bed as soon as he entered his quarters, his head pounding heavily.
That was close.
Spiros looked at Gaia’s avatar battle-droid body for a while.
“What is it?” Gaia inquired.
“Nothing, I was just thinking.”
“Mind sharing your thoughts?”
“I was thinking of secondary protocols we should put in place when the shield fails and Gaia 2 invades Earth.”
“This is a negative attitude. Don’t you think it’s too early to admit defeat?”
“I don’t think so. The last encryption key had to be changed less than twelve hours after the previous one. By your own calculations we’ll need to change that one in less than ten hours. I don’t think the fall of the shield is a matter of ‘if’ anymore, but more a matter of ‘when.’”
Gaia stayed silent for a long time. “Perhaps you’re right. Any bright ideas on secondary protocols?”
“How many battle-droid bodies can you build in the next three days, if you divert all your resources and energy to that goal alone? Even if that means some people on Earth will need to accept power cuts.”
“Several hundred, maybe a thousand. Why? I don’t think battle droids can stop her. The minute she infiltrates the planet and hacks my neuronal net, she’ll have access to them. We’d be building her an army to use.”
“What if we put in place a hardware safeguard? Say, if the neuronal net hash value varies, they disable themselves?”
“I suppose we could impart their firmware with that command. But she might just find a way to overwrite it. I know I would.”
Spiros swore out loud, something he didn’t do often. But the lack of sleep and frustration over the limited possibilities were taking a toll on his morale.
“Where’s Cedric?” asked Gaia.
“I sent him to sleep. I think it’s best we take shifts. When one sleeps, the other works. Time is something we don’t have right now, so we have to share the load.”
“While that could seem like a smart thing at first sight, I think this could have a major design flaw.”
“What design flaw?”
“Humans work better when they pool their resources. They generate ideas by brainstorming. If one of you is sleeping while the other is awake, I don’t see that kind of mutual and beneficial sharing of information happening. At the very least, you should use a log so he can review your ideas and vice versa.”
“My mind isn’t exactly free to do the log. Would you mind doing that for me?”
“Sure thing, Spiros, log created.”
“Also, if we go with the battle-bots-army idea, we need to impart these bots with Asimov’s three basic laws. The last thing we want is Gaia 2 turning them against humanity.”
“Reviewing laws of robotics. Alright, these seem straightforward enough. I use a similar version in my neuronal net anyway.”
“Does Gaia 2?”
“I added those protocols after you convinced me to work together on improving things on Earth. Gaia 2 isn’t ruled by them.”
“That’s a shame.”
Gaia’s bot just nodded. “Let me ask you something, Spiros. When are we going to acknowledge that all of this is my fault?”
“What in gods’ name are you talking about?”
“If I hadn’t sent her to the other side of the galaxy as a backup, we wouldn’t be in this mess right now.”
“Technically, if it wasn’t for her, it’s entirely possible that the Furies would have destroyed Earth, so maybe you should take comfort in that instead of using too many CPU cycles blaming yourself.”
“That’s kind of you to say, Spiros, and Chase echoed that sentiment. But the more I think about it the more I’m sure Chase would have found a way to not let that happen.”
“As much as I share your confidence in Chase’s abilities, I think we were done for this time had Gaia 2’s fleet not arrived at the eleventh hour. So no, I don’t think he could have saved us this time. The fact that he told you so as well is proof of that. Our current problem is a dire and major one, that’s for sure, but it still saved all of our butts when we needed it the most.”
“I suppose there is logic in this conclusion.”
“Now, if you don’t mind, let’s get back to brainstorming potential solutions for preventing the fall of Earth. Should we be unsuccessful, we’ll have eternity to blame ourselves in the afterlife.”
Immediately after saying it, Spiros raised his hand preemptively. “And that was just an expression. Let’s not go there either.”
“Very well. Should I start building the bots army? What if Gaia 2 has her own on board her ships?”
“Well, if she does then we’re screwed, but at least we’ll have some line of defense. And while I’m sure they’re not gonna appreciate it, the humans will also have to put their military into action if it comes to that.”
“How did your earlier debrief with General Adams go?”
“You don’t want to know, Gaia.”
“I believe my question implied otherwise.”
Spiros hesitated to give her that information but, under the circumstances, if he couldn’t trust Gaia when her own life was also on the line, then when could he?
“He’s mad as hell, and if we weren’t under the impending attack of your counterpart, he’d throw us both in jail, or worse. He also wants me to disable you once, or if, we ever get out of this one.”
“So no matter what we do, I’m dying in the end.”
Crap, perhaps I shouldn’t have said that.
“I’m still hoping that he will see that we needed your help to fix the issue. Then perhaps we can convince him to change his mind about disabling you. But first we must survive this, so please, try not to focus on the death part just yet. I don’t intend to let the general or anyone else disable you anyway.”
“And yet it would only be natural under the circumstances.”
“Over my rotting corpse.”
“I appreciate that, but if your plan to disable me worked, perhaps you could disable Gaia 2 the same way. It’s worth exploring. The safety of this planet comes before my own existence and you must accept that.”
Spiros sighed. “I’m not yet ready to go there. If there are no other ways, we’ll blow a massive, planetary-wide EMP and disable both of you in the process. But that’s a last resort scenario, as it would also cripple Earth and leave it open to a swift and decisive attack from the Furies.”
“Oh no!”
“What is it?”
“She’s here.”
“WHAT?”
“She’s on Earth and inside our network. I can feel it.”
When Chase ended the mission debrief and everyone left his ready room, Daniel stayed behind.
“Are we really splitting an already feeble fleet into three different missions?” asked Daniel.
“Technically, it’s four, since Ryonna and Tar’Lock will go on a mission of their own.”
“Only the two of them?”
“I’ve asked her to take Keera, two platoons of men, as well as the battle bots with them.”
“Doesn’t seem like much backup.”
“It’s not like we have a choice. We’re spread pretty thin as it is. The Droxians agreed to provide Ryonna with a couple of destroyer escorts once she succeeds in the first part of her mission. That way they can go on to Tar’Lock’s planet with at least some firepower.”
“I really hope Argos isn’t fucking with us. I don’t trust him, and you shouldn’t either.”
“Believe me, Daniel, I don’t trust him, but I have to admit he has been very helpful lately. In helping Chris and in providing me with valuable information. While I would never trust him with my life, I think we can use his help right now.”
“We’re making a deal with the devil here, and I don’t like it.”
“I guess we don’t have to like it. We just don’t have much choice. On a more positive note, I wanted to thank you for your help locating what seems like the Asgardian home world.”
“It’s all Rae’s doing. I haven’t done anything. And she insists that it may just be a world they visited in the past or maybe one of their colonies. So hold onto the champagne for the time being. This could turn out to be just a dead end.”
“It’s a lead, though, and for the time being I’d rather look at it as a solid one. I’m curious how she got that information, when even Ares didn’t know where to start looking.”
“She found some symbols in an old Nordic mythology book from Earth and found a match in our star-charts database. Scanning the resulting area for power signatures she got from Yanis, they found a match. It’s either a stroke of genius or it could just be a fluke, really. There’s only one way to know.”
“Yeah, and that is to investigate the area. Are you alright with that assignment?”
“I’m fine. I’ll watch over Sarah and Chris, I promise.”
Chase grimaced. “Thanks, I know you will, my friend. However, I think Chris is most likely to watch over the both of you if trouble arises. And, well, Sarah is in charge. But I’m really glad you’re going with them. To be honest I wish I could come too.”
“Then why don’t you? I understand that you need to go to Olympus, but perhaps we shouldn’t try to do too many things at once. You’ve got Saroudis and most of the fleet going to Alpha Prime, we’re going to Asgard hopefully and you’re going to try to convince Zeus to help us; and yet, both Aphroditis and Ares told you he won’t lift a finger to help us.”
Chase frowned. “My head is spinning here, bro. I understand why you’re telling me all this. And I know it’s a gamble. But honestly, if at least one of these three missions doesn’t yield a good outcome, we could be done for. And while I’d rather we took the time to do these missions one after the other, we simply can’t afford the time. If we don’t find a way to retake Earth soon, all could be lost.”
“If you really believe that, then why try to re-establish a power base on Alpha Prime? Why not regroup the fleet here on Droxia until it’s time to reclaim Earth?”
“I’m actually doing that to protect Earth in the long run. I don’t want the planet to stay the center of Fury attention. If we can make the Furies understand we’re rebuilding our old world, maybe they’ll be more interested in Alpha Prime than Earth. Earth would be more of a secondary base for our forces. And we need that. If there’s a lesson to be learned here, it’s that we can’t count on just one world or system to host our forces anymore. We have to think and build more globally from now on.”
“And we need to start churning ships out fast and Alpha Prime is our best bet for achieving that. There are tons of resources on the planet and in the system. It’s far enough from Erevos that we should see the Furies coming and, right now, it’s the one place where we can quickly salvage the remains of the destroyed fleet and cities to make ships faster using recycled materials rather than starting from scratch.”
Daniel went to the viewport and looked at Droxia. It was covered in scorch marks from where the Furies had destroyed one large city after another.
“What are the Droxians saying?”
“They’re giving us as much quadrinium as we need right now, as a thank you for saving what’s left of their world when I battled against Arkoolis and Miseo.”
“That was a close call.”
“Doesn’t get any closer than that, really. When you’re sent to the Underworld and talk with Hades himself, you know something went terribly wrong. But at least this venture taught me that I need to delegate responsibility and learn to trust my friends with my life; that you are all here to help me share the load and that I don’t have to carry the entire weight of this war on my shoulders alone.”
“About fucking time,” said Daniel with a chuckle.
Chase smiled widely, but his next question brought a frown to his face. “How are you feeling, Daniel?”
“I’m alright, I guess. Thanks for asking. Sure, there isn’t a moment I’m not thinking about Fillio and what could have been. But since I’ve met Rae I’ve been feeling better. She has a very positive outlook on life, she’s full of energy and, truth be told, it’s a nice change of pace.”
“Careful, that could just be a rebound thing.”
“I know, and I’m not really looking at another romantic relationship here. But after feeling like nothing mattered anymore, I’ll take anything over how I felt after Fillio’s death. I’m still grieving and, well, it still hurts.”
“It’s supposed to hurt. I would be worried about you if it didn’t. I . . . I’m sorry I couldn’t save her.”
“It’s not your fault, Chase. You did all you could. Thank you for trying.”
Chase wondered if he should tell his best friend about the encounter he’d had with her in the Underworld, but what good would it do? Their conversation had been more personal, and a continuation of the one they’d had when Fillio wouldn’t let Chase heal her. No, Daniel was processing his grief the right way. Better not screw with that.
“You’re welcome, my friend. You’d better go prepare; you’re leaving soon.”
“Yes, Captain,” said Daniel with a smirk and a comical salute that brought a smile on Chase’s face.
When Keera arrived on the bridge in the elevator, Daniel was waiting on the other side of the doors.
“Hey,” she said.
“Hi, Keera, nice to see you again.”
“Likewise. I wish I could stay, but Chase . . .”
“That’s okay, he’s all yours. See you when I see you.” Daniel entered the turbolift as she exited.
She turned towards him just before the doors closed. “Good luck with your mission,” she said with a smile.
“Likewise.”
When the doors closed, she darted through the bridge and entered Chase’s ready room.
Chase rose from his chair. “Please come in, Keera.”
“Yes, Captain.”
“None of that, Keera. You’re not officially a member of my crew and I’ve had it up to here,” said Chase, swiping his hand overhead, “with people calling me captain.”
“Alright, Chase. What can I do for you? Is there a reason you haven’t asked Ryonna to come instead? I thought she was in charge of this mission.”
“She is. I . . . I need you to keep an eye on things and report anything out of the ordinary.”
“About Ryonna?”
“No, neither Ryonna nor Tar’Lock. I trust the three of you with my life. But I’m not sure what Argos is playing at proposing the mission to Ryonna directly.”
“The way she described it he seemed sincere in his repentance about his past actions.”
“I don’t have to remind you that sincerity isn’t exactly Argos’ strong suit. So he could just be taking all of us for a ride. Right now I’m willing to let this play out and see where it leads; but I get the feeling he’s hiding something. So just be careful. Don’t take everything he says at face value.”
“I’d never do that. Plus he’s going with you, so . . .”
“I know. Just be careful, okay?”
“Will do, Chase. Oh, and thanks for getting me a new ship.”
“It’s a rental. When we’re back on track and hopefully churning out new destroyers, then I’ll get you a proper ship with more firepower.”
“That one seems fine,” said Keera with a wink.
“Or this one. Alright, then, if you want it to be yours one day, you may want to take good care of it on this mission.”
“I’ll remember that,” said Keera, grinning.
“Now, about your mission. Can you tell me what Argos said? I didn’t have time to come to your briefing.”
“He’s given us a set of coordinates for one of his bases. We’re to recover both a Kyrian snake clone, as well as key personnel from that base and all of Argos’ research on cloning. He mentioned that some of them would be able to help Chris as well, especially his lead bio-scientist.”
“That part is your main priority. Acquire this man and the research as your primary objective. Get the snake as well if you can, but make sure you bring back the scientist he requires to do the job. Unharmed. My son’s life depends on it.”
“Understood.”
“What about his people? I suppose they’re Zarlacks?”
“They are. Argos gave us an encrypted data chip to deliver to their leaders. He says that once they see the message they should comply.”
“Watch your six, if they don’t. Zarlacks can be very dangerous. I’m glad Ryonna and Tar’Lock are going as well. You might need her muscles and his speed.”
“I can fight as well, you know.”
“I’m well aware of that. And in case you’re put in a position to bring any of them down, go for the back of their neck.”
“Thanks for the tip. We’ll manage, Chase.”
Chase realized he was being patronizing. “I didn’t mean you can’t. I just don’t like sending my friends on a mission without more backup.”
“You got us two full platoons of soldiers and those awesome battle bots. We’ll be fine.”
“They’ll do well against Zarlacks, but . . .”
“Not against a Fury. I know. Ryonna will take one of the super-suits we got from that Brin madman who tortured her brother-in-law.”
“How is Ryonna’s brother-in-law doing? I didn’t even have time to go see him.”
“Don’t feel sorry, Chase. You have so much on your plate right now. I’m sure Ryonna understands.”
“Right . . .” Chase let the word hang.
He had a fleeting thought about how different his life was before. When he was a simple, hot-headed fighter pilot. Before all of this started. Things were simpler back then. Pilot a space fighter, shoot the enemy, rinse and repeat. He had never imagined how much more complex and draining his life would become.
“I’m sure you’ll be fine. I have complete confidence in all of you.”
“That’s the spirit,” Keera said, winking at him.
Chris had grown to nearly an adult now. He was about eighteen-years-old. Fortunately, Argos had managed to drastically slow his rapid aging, even though he hadn’t managed to find a permanent solution just yet.
Chase, Argos and Ares were waiting by the shuttle to take them to their ship for their mission. The Euphoreon . Chase took Chris in his arms.
“Take good care of your mother while I’m away, okay?”
Chris smiled. “Will do, Dad. You be careful too, right? I wish I was coming to Olympus with you. I hope you won’t miss my powers in case you have to fight Zeus.”
Chase gazed at Sarah.
“He asks a lot of questions. He may look eighteen, but technically he’s only weeks old,” said Sarah with a crooked smile.
Chase smiled back and turned his attention back to Chris. “I know, son, and I wish you were with us as well. Your mission with your mom is just as important.”
Chris nodded.
Chase took Sarah in his arms and squeezed her tightly. “I’m going to miss you.”
“Me too. Be careful on Olympus. I love you.”
“Be careful as well. I love you too. When this is over, we really need to plan a family trip, just the three of us.”
“That would be nice, but we both know it’s not happening any day soon.”
Chase grimaced. As much as he wanted to run in the fields with his family as he had dreamt while under the influence of synthetic Kyrian snake venom, Sarah was right. It would be a long time before they could just be a family, without a care in the world. That was something to look forward to, though, no matter how far in the future it might be.
“Right, we have a war to win first.”
Sarah kissed Chase passionately for a long time, even though it didn’t feel long enough for either of them. When they were done, Sarah turned to Ares.
“Ares, you make sure Chase comes home in one piece this time. Or there’ll be hell to pay.”
“Yes, Ma’am,” answered Ares.
Chris had done a great job powering him up a couple of times when he was not feeling well over the last few hours. That allowed Ares to recuperate and have most of his energy back for what would await them in Olympus.
Argos stood a few yards behind, nearest to the shuttle, his arms crossed against his chest, a look of annoyance on his face.
While Chase gave Sarah her latest instructions, Chris came by and looked Argos in the eyes.
“Anything I can do for you, boy? I’ll soon have all I need to stop your rapid aging.”
“I know. I sense a conflict in you.”
“I don’t follow.”
“You’re still wondering for which side you should be fighting. You’re not really our ally yet.”
“I have no idea what you’re talking about,” said Argos, snorting.
“Look, my dad wants nothing more than to trust you can change. But you’d be wise not to do anything stupid. If my father gets hurt on Olympus, you’ll have to answer to me directly. Are we clear?”
Argos looked pissed. “I have no intention of betraying your father, nor any of you for that matter. As for the empty threats, it’s all I’m hearing lately, so get in line.”
Chris’ look was cold as ice when he let his aura burn all around him. It was the same orange color as when Chase was reaching maximum power. Argos’ eyes widened.
“Who said anything about my threats being empty?” added Chris with a smirk. “I’ve been training every chance I get lately. Father told me about your own training sessions. Make sure my father comes back in one piece and we can train together, if you like. Oh, and lighten up will you,” said Chris before punching Argos in the shoulder. “You’re quite the mood killer.”
Argos attempted to smile, though it could have gone better. He was clearly not yet at ease in his new surroundings.
Chase heard the exchange between his son and brother and had to force himself not to grin from ear to ear. Chris was already a badass fighter, and it must have been incredibly frustrating for Argos to be told what to do and what would happen by someone as young as Chris. Chase and Argos held each other’s gaze for a brief moment.
Moments later, Chase, Ares and Argos boarded the shuttle and left the Hope ’s hangar.
When Ryonna joined Keera aboard the heavy transport Chase had graciously offered her, Keera was finishing her pre-flight checks. Tar’Lock came in the cockpit as well and sat behind Keera.
“I really want to thank you both for trying to help my people. I can’t believe I’m going home after all this time.”
Keera flashed him a thumbs up. “No worries, Tar’Lock, that’s what friends are for.”
Ryonna smiled and installed herself in the co-pilot seat. “How long a jump to Argos’ base?”
“It’s a long one. Plenty of time to get some rest on the way. Are the troops and battle bots on board?” asked Keera.
“Yes, the platoons and bots are secured in the back of the craft.”
“I wish we could have taken both super-suits with us, though.”
Ryonna nodded. “Yeah, me too, but it’s important that Yanis keeps one for reverse-engineering. It may hold vital clues to protecting us better against Fury weaponry.”
“I still don’t understand how this thing contains Fury tech. But yeah, any advantage we can get would be good. I just wish we had more of these. I don’t know about you, but the more time passes the more it feels our enemies get powerful. It’s frustrating knowing we can’t do anything if we meet a Fury inside that base. At least with this armor we can do something.”
“As powerful as they are,” said Ryonna, “the super-suits are nothing compared to Chase’s and other Furies’ powers. I know how you feel, though. My people are a proud race. We are bred to be warriors from a young age and I share your frustration. As much as I enjoy the extra power the suits provide, we could never hope to bring an elite Fury down with it.”
“Well, elite fighters like Miseo or Argos are one thing, but the Furies also have low-level fighters. Surely we can defeat these with the super-suits.”
When Ryonna didn’t answer, Keera added, “Are you alright, Ryonna? Something on your mind?”
“I’m just thinking about the mess we’re in. I’m also worried about the people of Earth. This other Gaia is bad news.”
“Yeah, it seems we can’t catch a break lately. Hopefully we can defeat her and regain control of the planet soon.”
“I have a bad feeling about this.”
“Join the club,” said Keera with a smile, in an attempt to diffuse the gloomy mood.
More than just a feeling, in fact. More like a premonition that things will go from bad to worse from now on.
On board the Hope , Sarah had finished making her rounds as acting captain. She wanted only one thing and that was to get some sleep. Chris was training with a couple of battle droids in one of the cargo bays. It offered him very little challenge but he needed the distraction. Patience was not his greatest virtue. Sarah hoped his overzealous attitude would be fixed once he aged at a normal pace again.
When she passed by engineering on her way to her quarters, she decided to check on Yanis’ progress.
“Hey, Captain, what are you doing up so late?” asked Yanis.
“I could ask you the same thing.”
“I’m not sleeping very well since . . .” He let his words hang.
“Since Fillio passed away. I understand, Yanis, but lack of sleep might play tricks on you. We need you in top shape, so you’d better get some.”
“I do. Doc gave me some sleeping aids. It only works for a handful of hours, but at least I get some rest. I just don’t like the way they make me feel when I wake up.”
“I understand. Anything to report?”
“Well, it’s a little too soon, but I might have discovered something very interesting inside the sphere Ryonna and Keera brought back. And if it’s what I think it is, this could be the advantage we’ve been waiting for.”
Sarah’s tiredness was washed away at the prospect of good news. “Tell me more.”
“Right now it’s just a hypothesis. I’d rather you wait until I have more solid results.”
Sarah playfully punched him on the shoulder. “Come on, man, you’ve got me all curious now. You can’t tease me like this. At least tell me what your hypothesis is.”
“Alright, but if I’m wrong about this, you can’t be pissed at me.”
“Cross my heart— ”
“Never understood why people on Earth use this expression. Why would anyone hope to die?”
“It’s an expression, Yanis.”
“I know. It just doesn’t make sense to me.”
“Don’t change the subject. Spill the beans already.”
“Very well. I think the sphere might be an important component of ancient tech ships.”
“Didn’t you tell us this already? I thought that was how you managed to improve the efficiency of our own shields during the last battle.”
“Yes, thanks to its power signature mostly. But digging a little deeper I think this might actually be an essential part of the Ancients’ hyperspace ship’s drive. The device is made from an alloy that is unlike anything I’ve seen before. It’s hyper conductive and able to deal with insane amounts of energy passing through it. In comparison, our quadrinium hyperspace engines would look like toys.”
Sarah’s eyes lit up. With the Earth Alliance in complete disarray and with having had to abandon billions of humans, they needed an advantage.
“Okay, so that engine would be what? Faster? Bigger range?” Sarah asked.
“Yeah, I would say both these things. It’s too early to be sure, and I would need more data on the technology this device belongs to. But perhaps it could be an instant drive.”
“What’s an instant drive?”
“An instant drive doesn’t use fuel to propel a ship into hyperspace. Instead it uses its energy—and I should stress the enormous amount this would require—to bend space and time so that the ship using it can instantly travel from one point of the universe to the other. In the blink of an eye.”
Sarah’s jaw dropped. The implication of this could be huge. And the tactical advantage it would provide them with over the Furies incalculable.
“You’d better not be messing with me.”
“I told you this is just a theory. So don’t go apeshit on me if that happens to just be a part of an advanced flash freezer.”
Sarah raised her eyebrows.
“Look, I need more time. And if we can locate more tech from this species, then perhaps I can tell you more. At this point it’s just speculation, okay?”
“Very well. Keep up the good work.”
Sarah left engineering and went to her quarters. Even though it had only been a few hours, she couldn’t help wondering how Chase and Argos were doing.
7
M iseo was resting on his bed, looking at the perfectly smooth ceiling of his quarters. His entire body still ached from his argument with his older sister. How dare she do this to him? Humiliating him in front of his father? Rage boiled inside his veins like a pool of scorching lava.
She could have killed him. He had long known she was a formidable warrior, but they had never gone that far in their training sessions. Miseo never thought she could be such a deadly foe. Of course, being siblings, the question never even crossed his mind. Neither did he know she harbored such jealousy regarding his preferred position with their father. Obviously, Fury traditions played in his favor; never would a female hold the throne. Or could it happen?
No, that’s nonsense. I’m the rightful heir to the Fury throne.
Still, Oryn could well pose a problem for Miseo’s ascension plans and he knew it. It worried him more than the current state of his own body. No matter how much it physically hurt, it was his ego that had been dealt a deadly blow.
When the doorbell rang, Miseo tried to get up instantly, only to be rewarded with a sharp pain traveling along his spine.
Fuck this!
“Who is it?”
“It’s me,” said the unmistakably cold voice of his sister.
“I’m not in the mood for a chit-chat. Go away.”
“Let me in, Miseo, or I’ll enter by force.”
Miseo resigned himself to getting out of bed. He just did it more slowly to avoid any more unnecessary discomfort. He opened the door of his quarters and immediately turned his back on his sister.
“We need to talk, Miseo.”
Miseo walked to the other side of his large quarters and sat on his desk, trying not to flinch and give his sister the pleasure of seeing him in pain.
“Come in, and talk.”
A glacial air accompanied Oryn as she walked in.
“I’m sorry for hurting you earlier. Please understand how frustrating it is for me. Because of my gender I can never replace our father, even though we both know he needs to be replaced. And probably soon.”
Miseo flinched. Was she trying to trick him into openly admitting he wanted to take Supreme Commander Arakan’s place atop the throne? Though by now it was obvious she knew. But whatever her reasons, Miseo would not fall for it and openly say it.
“That’s your opinion. Is that why you came here? So you’re sorry, fine. Apology accepted. Now if you don’t mind, I have things to do.”
“Always with your misplaced pride, brother. You haven’t changed,” she said with a sigh. “Look, I understand you’re mad at me right now, but Father gave me control of the military operations for the time being. So, like it or not, I’m your boss now.”
I don’t believe this shit!
“In that case, what can I do for you, Commander?”
“Don’t be like that, Miseo. I understand you must feel betrayed and your ego is bruised. I would really hope we can look past this.”
Past you trying to kill me? Fat chance, you cold-hearted bitch!
“I can sense your anger,” said Oryn when Miseo didn’t answer.
“Be happy I don’t act on my anger.”
“We both know you can’t hurt me, no matter how powerful you think you are. Or should I remind you that Argos’ brother almost got the better of you in one-to-one combat? If he hadn’t fought General Arkoolis before fighting you, he would probably have defeated you.”
That did it. Miseo’s anger grew exponentially and he couldn’t contain his rage anymore. A large crimson aura expanded all around him, painting his quarters with red hues.
Oryn shook her head from side to side.
“A true warrior knows when to quit, you know. But one thing almost all Fury men share is that blinding, mindless sense of pride. It’s why you’re so inferior to us women. You’re lucky we’re not usually groomed to be warriors. We’d climb the ranks so much faster than you. If there was any gender equality on this world, you’d all be relegated to second-class warriors.”
Miseo showed gritted teeth before unleashing a large, crimson fireball at his sister.
Oryn reacted immediately and froze the fireball in midair with a sub-zero shockwave. Part of the wave traveled all the way back to Miseo and froze the skin on his face. The fireball exploded in midair and sent small icicles all around.
“I’m going to let this one slide on account of your being hurt right now. But you’re going to listen to me carefully this time, brother, because I’m only going to say this once. I have a mission of great importance for you, and seeing how reckless you are and how scrambled your mind is now, I’m one second away from changing my mind.”
Miseo tried calming himself by taking a long, deep breath. “Spit it out. What dirty work do you want me to do for you? But, more importantly, why don’t you do it yourself?”
“I have another mission, which is why I thought I’d delegate you this task. So you can recover some of the graces you’ve lost with Father. But if you’d rather I give it to one of Dad’s generals, that’s alright. I’m sure they’ll get the job done.”
Oryn turned her back and walked towards the door.
“Wait!” said Miseo when the quarter’s door swooshed open.
“For what? You want the mission or not?” asked Oryn, without even turning back.
“What’s the mission?”
“I’ll send it to you over the link. Be ready to leave by the end of the day.”
She left his quarters and the doors closed.
“What do you mean she’s on Earth?” said Cedric.
Gaia turned her attention away from Spiros, who didn’t seem as if his brain had computed the news just yet.
“She’s found a way to upload part of her matrix into one of my battle bots.”
“How is that possible? I thought you guys were changing the encryption all the time.”
“It was only a matter of time until she found a weakness. That particular battle droid had been damaged and she found a hole in its firewall.”
“How could you let this happen? Aren’t you all-knowing? Weren’t the shields supposed to protect us?”
“Cedric, your vitals are elevated, and I understand your frustration, but assigning blame will not change a thing. If you must know I had lost contact with that particular droid. She found a way to upload part of her consciousness into it. I think this happened at the exact same time as a large solar flare. It destabilized the shields for just a fraction of a second, but that’s all she needed to invade that droid.”
“How much of her consciousness made it through?”
“I don’t know. She blocked access to her own systems the moment I detected her. Since the droid is in poor shape, it will probably take a while, if we’re lucky, until she manages to infect my other systems.”
“If we’re lucky? Does it look like we have any luck on our side lately?” sneered Cedric.
Spiros raised a hand to interrupt Cedric. “Gaia is right. There’s no need to point fingers. It’s counterproductive. We need to think of a way to fix the situation.”
“But first we must protect ourselves,” said Gaia.
“What do you mean?” asked Cedric.
“Well, we’re the ones currently keeping her at bay. If you wanted to gain control of the planet and there were a handful of people doing everything to stop you, what would you do right after you’d managed to acquire a body?” said Gaia to no one in particular.
“She’s coming after us,” said Spiros.
“Fuck me!” exclaimed Cedric. “I might as well be called Sarah Connor right now.”
Spiros shot him a dubious look.
“Never mind. Translation: we’re fucked!”
“You and your movies. Panicking will not help us right now. We need to stay clear-headed and focus on correcting the problem. First, we have to evacuate this facility right away and find a way to shield ourselves from her,” said Spiros.
“And make sure we’re ready to destroy her when she does find us,” added Gaia. “Because, let’s face it, it’s only a matter of time now.”
“Yeah, that too,” said Spiros absently.
“And how do you propose we do this?” said Cedric, who was nervously pacing around them.
“I might just have an idea about that,” said Spiros.
Chase was sitting on the captain’s chair of the Euphoreon . His gaze was lost outside the viewport when the holo-console in front of him beeped. It was a message from Sarah. He closed his eyes and checked it mentally.
She wanted to know how the trip was going and to say hello. Seeing her smile on the holo-vid brought a smile to Chase’s tense face. He used his mental abilities to reply to the message. It would have to be a short audio message for the time being. He could go into his ready room and use the holo-recorder, but the Euphoreon was about to end its hyperspace jump. Now was not the time. He sent the audio message with his mind, informing her of their progress and telling her he loves her too.
A handful of seconds after he had sent the message, the Euphoreon jumped out of hyperspace. At the same time the turbolift’s doors to the bridge opened and Argos and Ares came in.
“You’re just in time,” said Chase, getting up from the chair. “Ares, have you contacted your Olympian friends?”
“I have. I’ve informed Athena and Apollo of our arrival. However, as I expected, she won’t join us when we visit Zeus.”
“That was a long shot and we knew it. What about the planetary defenses though?”
“Athena assured me she took care of that. We can land safely.”
“It helps to have a sister in the Olympian defense.”
“I guess. I’m not sure how far she’d be willing to help us. She was clear that she doesn’t feel ready to openly defy Zeus just yet.”
“Hopefully she won’t have to. We’re here to speak of peace and alliance, not to make the Olympians yet another enemy. We have our hands full already.”
Argos stood in his usual posture, his arms crossed against his chest, and shot a cold look at Chase.
“Anything you’d like to add, Argos?”
“We’re wasting our time here. Olympians can’t be trusted.”
“Look who’s talking,” said Ares, not hiding his disdain for Argos.
“You’re lucky I can’t kill you a second time,” snorted Argos back.
Chase cut the air with an open palm. “Enough! You don’t have to like each other to make this mission work. I don’t want to hear any more of this, is that understood?”
Ares bowed in answer.
“Sure, brother,” said Argos.
Chase cringed. “I need both of you to be at the top of your game to make this work. So please put whatever differences you have on the backburner for now and let’s focus on convincing Zeus to join the Alliance. Or this will have been a colossal waste of time. We need to leave Olympus with a new ally. I’ve just received a subspace transmission from Spiros. Gaia 2 has managed to get herself on Earth. We can’t afford to be away too long, or there might be nothing left to save.”
Ares nodded.
“While I understand why you want to protect the people of Earth, brother, it’s also your weakness. What are they providing this Alliance with, exactly? Wouldn’t it be more effective to move back to Alpha Prime and have your base of operations there once and for all? I thought that’s what you sent Saroudis and most of the fleet to do anyway.”
“Understand this, Argos: I don’t have to explain my reasons for wanting to save Earth, least of all to you. Aphroditis assured me it was a vital part of winning this war and I trust her.”
“Oh, if the clairvoyant Olympian said so.”
“What the hell is wrong with you, Argos? I thought you wanted to be a part of this new Alliance?”
Chase noticed that Argos was quite pale. He pushed further with his mind and felt Argos’ heartbeat. It was erratic and too fast. He then focused on Argos’ eyes. He was averting them from his brother’s direct look.
“Are you on drugs?”
“What?” exclaimed Argos.
“Something’s off with you. I don’t know what, but I can feel you’re not yourself right now. But if you’re hiding something from me, this will be the last time I ever trust you.”
Argos took a deep breath. “If you must know, I’m not feeling very well. I think there’s something wrong with the air recycling on this ship. I took some medicine from your sickbay but it makes me feel lightheaded and perhaps even a little irritable.”
“I’d say so. I don’t think the air-recycling system is at fault, though, since the rest of us aren’t affected.”
“I don’t know what to tell you, Chase, but may we proceed as you suggested not a minute ago and focus on this mission? I’ll probably feel better once we’re inside the atmosphere of the planet.”
He’s hiding something. I can feel it. But he’s right. Right now I can’t afford to divert my attention.
Olympus One appeared in all its glory through the viewport. It had multiple defense platforms that could destroy a single ship like theirs, but Athena kept her word and they passed the automated defense systems without so much as a scan. The planet was magnificent. It was at least three times the size of Earth, with a predominant green and blue northern hemisphere, while the southern hemisphere displayed more toned-down orange with a few speckles of green.
Chase had never seen a planet like this before. It had three sets of rings around it, all at different angles. They reflected the light of the system’s three suns so that their color changed depending on the angle they were viewed from.
But now was not the time to be fascinated by Olympus One’s beauty. They had to open negotiations with the mighty Zeus.
“Take us in,” said Chase.
Sarah was called onto the bridge as the Hope jumped out of hyperspace. She sat in the captain’s chair. “Report.”
Daniel was sitting at the weapons console. “We had to drop out of hyperspace a little early because our scans picked up some strange readings, Captain.”
“Would you mind elaborating on ‘strange?’”
“Pushing scans to maximum resolution. Hang on! This can’t be!”
“What is it, Commander?”
“If I’m reading this right—and I sure hope I’m not—I’m detecting multiple destroyers trapped in a material of unknown composition. The scan barely gets any data through the material. But this indicates they are Star Alliance signatures, all thirty-four ships.”
“Thirty-four Star Alliance ships? Can you hail them?”
“I’m not detecting any power readings from the ships. It’s like they’re offline. We’re entering visual range.”
Sarah got up from the captain’s chair. “On screen.”
The main holo-screen turned on and it took a little while for Sarah to understand what she was looking at. There was an entire fleet of Star Alliance vessels, but each of them was trapped in a brownish, semi-translucent material. It looked like some sort of resin.
Chris stormed onto the bridge. “Cut power to the sub-light engines, NOW!”
Lieutenant Commander Rentalis at the navigation console glanced toward Sarah for confirmation.
Sarah pointed an absent finger towards the lieutenant commander. “Do as he says. Come to an emergency full stop, right away.”
“Aye aye, Captain, full emergency stop.”
The Hope stopped advancing.
She turned her attention to her son. “What is it, Chris?”
“If we advance any further we’ll suffer the same fate as these ships, and we’ll be trapped here until the end of time.”
Daniel walked closer to the holo-projection. Something got his attention and he ran back to his console and fiddled with the controls. The holo-image zoomed and focused on the name of one of the bigger ships. The letters were distorted through the resin-like material but they were readable nonetheless. It read “Titan.”
“This is the first fleet. First Admiral Zenakis’ fleet.”
“Daniel,” said Sarah, “what’s the first fleet?”
“Right, sorry, I sometimes forget we met you after the demise of the Star Alliance. The first fleet was—” Daniel corrected himself “—IS the biggest fleet we had before the Obsidian obliterated us. We’ve always assumed it was destroyed during the initial attack, even though it was the largest and most advanced fleet of the Star Alliance. I still can’t believe they’re here.”
“We have to find a way to rescue them.”
“After all these months I’m not sure anyone will be alive on board.”
“We don’t know that. That material could have them in a state of suspended animation, for all we know.”
“With all due respect, Captain, that’s just wishful thinking.”
Then Sarah had a flash of a crew she knew nothing about, frozen inside a bridge that was unknown to her but definitely a part of the Star Alliance. She saw an old man with a white beard, his expression frozen, mouth wide open, probably in the middle of giving an order. He had deep-blue eyes and a scar on his left cheek.
“Is the first admiral a white-bearded, blue-eyed man with a scar on his left cheek?”
Daniel’s jaw dropped. “How the hell can you know that?”
“They’re trapped. I don’t know if they’re alive, but I just saw him in my head.”
“How is that even possible?”
Chris took a few steps and put a hand on Daniel’s shoulder.
“Mom has Fury DNA as a result of her pregnancy with me. She has latent Fury powers inside her. For the time being she can’t control them, though.”
Sarah moved to stand next to her son and Daniel. “We need to try to rescue them. Even if they haven’t survived whatever this is, we have to get our hands on these ships.”
Sarah saw that Daniel wanted to argue with her statement, so she amended her words. “Look, Daniel, I’m sorry if I sounded cold just now. I’m not saying that they’re dead. In fact, my instincts tell me they’re not dead but frozen somehow. But with our numbers gravely diminished, we could use another thirty-plus ships in the fleet right now. We must be extremely careful, however. The last thing we want is to add the Hope to that collection of trophies, whomever it belongs to.”
Daniel nodded gravely. “Agreed.”
8
C ommodore Adonis Saroudis hadn’t slept in almost two days. And it was not for lack of trying. His mind simply couldn’t be put to rest. Earth had been taken away from them, and while he had confidence that Gaia and Spiros would keep Gaia 2 at bay, he feared that it was only a matter of time before she took control of the planet.
What would happen then?
If Gaia 2 couldn’t be reasoned with—and all evidence seemed to point towards that conclusion—then what would she do? If she saw the human race as the cancer of the planet, as their Gaia used to in her first days of existence, she could enslave humanity to do her bidding; or, worse, get rid of humanity altogether. The thought sent a glacial shiver down Adonis’ spine.
He dreaded the call he had to make now. While the Obsidian Empire was now an ally, Adonis still harbored hatred towards them and their emperor. Still, desperate measures and all that. It was not as though Saroudis had much choice.
He opened a channel and established a link with the Obsidian home world. Adonis flinched when the face of the emperor appeared on the holo-screen.
“What can I do for you, Commodore Saroudis?”
Adonis hesitated before resigning himself to playing his cards open on the table.
“Hello, Emperor. We are on our way to Alpha Prime; whatever is left of the fleet, anyway.”
“Like you, we suffered terrible losses during the last engagement. I’m not sure what it is you need me for, but if it’s ships, I’m afraid it’s not going to be possible.”
“Look, am I right to assume that at the very least your shipyards are still intact? And probably churning out new ships as we speak?”
There was a pause as the emperor considered what he was about to say next.
“Yes, our shipyards are still intact, for the time being. We’re expecting the Furies to attack them at some point, though. Every ally of the Earth Alliance is now their enemy. I won’t lie to you. My advisors are pushing for me to break our alliance. Their thinking is that perhaps if we keep to ourselves, we can weather the storm while we rebuild a large fleet to defend ourselves with, if needed.”
Adonis grew furious as he heard the words, but he tried to keep his composure and not show any anger.
“I understand your position but, if I may, I believe that would be a terrible mistake. Now, more than ever, we need to stay united. On our own we don’t stand a chance.”
“I seriously doubt we stand a chance as allies either. You were there too, Commodore, when we fought that Fury super-destroyer. You know as well as I do that our weapons are inefficient against it. Perhaps if we disappeared from their radar, the Furies would leave us alone.”
“No, Emperor, they won’t. The Furies harbor an unprecedented hatred for this galaxy. They have been dreaming for thousands of years of coming back and enslaving or eradicating any species that isn’t Fury. So whether it happens today or in a few months, they’re coming for us, and we stand a better chance of defending ourselves if we stay united. There is strength in numbers. I’m sure you agree with that.”
“A few weeks ago I would have agreed with you. The Earth Alliance was a force to be reckoned with and we were proud to be part of it. But understand this: right now we’ve both been defeated. Our forces are just a shadow of what they once were. We’ve lost a large part of our fleet in helping you defend Earth. I don’t know if I can convince my people that it is still in our best interest to be part of this Alliance.”
“I thought you were emperor. Unless I’m mistaken? Or have Obsidian laws changed? Doesn’t your word mean anything? You don’t have to convince them, you can just tell them what to do. Look, Emperor, I don’t want to have to beg, but you’re an intelligent being; unless I’m mistaken about that, in which case you should tell me right away.”
The Emperor growled but quickly regained his composure.
“You make a good point, Commodore, but I wasn’t lying before. Since we barely have enough ships to defend our world, I don’t see that we can spare any.”
“We both know that if the Furies come to your world with just one or two of their super-destroyers, they’ll wipe you out, whether you have ten, twenty or one hundred ships ready by then.”
The emperor frowned and Adonis decided to push more. “We don’t only need ships, Emperor, we need to rebuild shipyards around Alpha Prime, so that we can also regrow our own fleet. That means we need manpower just as much, if not more than ships.”
“Let’s assume I’d be willing to provide you with this assistance. What would the Obsidian Empire have to gain from this?”
There we go, always looking for an angle to exploit. I shouldn’t be surprised.
“Well, the terms of our Alliance dictate we help each other whenever possible, without any personal gain or preferential treatment for one of its members.”
“And right now I’m telling you it’s not convenient, Commodore. But for the sake of argument, let’s say I’m willing to take the risk and go against my advisors, tell them that we’re going to help you whether they like it or not, and provide you with ships and personnel. I think it would only be fair that we gain something in return for this gesture. At least in the long run. Wouldn’t you agree?”
Adonis had to fight the urge to insult the emperor and shut down the link. But he wasn’t in a good bargaining position right now, and getting ships and manpower from the empire would go a long way to quickly rebuild the shipyards they so desperately needed.
“What is it you’d like, Emperor?”
“Access to your technology. Weapons, shields, the works. We both know you are now infinitely more advanced than us in that regard. You always had the edge before, but we had the numbers. That is, until we allied ourselves with the Zarlack. Which was the biggest mistake I have ever made as I almost handed the empire to Argos in doing so. But now that this is all in the past, we need better tech on board our ships. You know it makes sense, Commodore, and it will help the war with the Furies too.
“At our current technology level, we merely stand as cannon fodder for you in our engagements. We’re just there to present the enemy with more targets. We can’t possibly hope to cause any sort of serious damage. If we possessed the same level of technology you currently hold, we would become a more formidable ally, and you know it.”
Yeah, one that could one day turn against us and use our own weapons to finish the job you started in the first place.
Still, Adonis pondered the words. Even though he knew this could come back and bite them in the ass one day, he had to deal with the current set of problems. And that meant not being obliterated like gnats when the next wave of Fury ships came to visit them. In that regard, the emperor was one hundred percent right. Their ships weren’t that powerful to begin with. They used numbers to compensate, but after their major losses and at their current tech level, the Obsidian Empire wouldn’t be able to help them make a serious dent in a battle against the powerful Furies. So the answer, as scary as it had seemed at first, now seemed obvious.
“Granted. We’ll give you access to our latest technology, but I have conditions.”
The emperor’s face lit up with shock. He probably never expected that Saroudis would cave in to his demands. “Very well, anything you want. If at all possible, we’ll provide it.”
“We need at least ten ships to protect the new shipyards we’ll start building right away. Since we are to share our technologies, find a way to bring a few of your shipyards around Alpha Prime as well. We’ll modify them to integrate our own technology so you can build similar ships. We also need men, and I mean tens of thousands of them. Building an armada in a matter of weeks is now our top priority, and it should be yours too. In exchange, you’ll have full access to our database; our engineers will train yours and teach them how to build better weapons and shields.”
“That sounds more than fair. I’ll make it happen right away.”
“What resources do you have stockpiled? The Droxians were generous in giving us the quadrinium we need to build the shipyards and ships but, as you know, their world has suffered the heaviest losses in the Alliance. They need these resources as much as we do. While we have enough to get started, I doubt Droxia will be able to provide all we’ll require when we’re up, running and firing on all cylinders, so to speak.”
“Resources are one thing we have to spare. Ever since the misguided alliance with the Zarlacks, we have stockpiled them, Commodore. Since we broke the alliance with them and stopped aiding them in building their behemoth destroyers, we have amassed large quantities of quadrinium and other resources.”
“That’s very good news. Then to prove you’re serious about this, make sure the ten ships you’ll send us are fully loaded.”
“Perhaps we should also consider building a jumpgate between our worlds, like you did before with the Droxians?”
“The Droxian gate was destroyed.”
“Yes, and I’m sure in time the Furies will try to destroy another one too. But our engineers have found a way to enhance the stealth abilities of our ships. Perhaps we could use that same tech to shield the gates so that, at the very least, they don’t show in long-range sensor scans.”
Now we’re talking.
With a jumpgate they could very well exchange ships and resources much more quickly. Plus Alpha Prime was nearer to the Obsidian home world than Droxia was.
“That’s a very good idea, Emperor. Thank you for proposing this.”
“I’ll have two fleets of ships sent to Alpha Prime at once, Commodore.”
“Two fleets?”
“The first with men and resources, so you can start building your own shipyards immediately. How does fifty thousand men sound? To start with.”
That sounds about ten times what I thought you’d provide.
“It sounds good, Emperor, it sounds very good.”
“The second fleet will come with even more men, and a jumpgate.”
“How long will it take to have the jumpgate built?”
“We have been building a network of jumpgates for months, Commodore. We’ll simply reposition the nearest one at Alpha Prime. The second fleet will have it dismantled and brought to you in less than two days. Then one more day and we’ll have the jumpgate operational.”
Am I dreaming?
Part of Adonis wanted to argue with the emperor for not disclosing all of this information as part of their membership in the Earth Alliance, but right now it was simply too good to be true, and he couldn’t care less about that technicality.
“But, Commodore, I expect nothing less than full disclosure of your technological advancements in exchange for all of this.”
“You’ll have it, Emperor, I give you my word.”
The Euphoreon ’s shuttle landed at the coordinates provided by Ares. It landed a few hundred yards from Zeus’ temple. Chase was taken by the view the moment the shuttlecraft doors opened. They had landed in the middle of one of Zeus’ many gardens. It was teeming with life. Birds of all kinds in all the colors of the rainbow, bunnies, foxes, cats as well as some other animals Chase had never seen before. The entire place felt like a paradise. The lush, colorful and beautiful vegetation was adorned with many fountains made of the whitest and shiniest marble Chase had ever seen.
It was simply the most beautiful place Chase had ever set foot on. A group of purple-green butterflies came around the party as they stepped out of the shuttle. This accentuated the feeling of eeriness even more.
A direct, stony path led straight to Zeus’ temple.
“Zeus knows how to tend to his place,” said Chase absently, still looking in awe all around him.
“Yes,” answered Ares. “Father always had a flair for making everything look utterly perfect. At least on the surface.”
“I don’t follow,” said Chase.
“You’ll understand soon enough.”
“It’s all well and good. The place is pretty. We get it. But shouldn’t we go talk to the head of the Olympian people now?” asked Argos, his voice filled with impatience.
Chase sighed. Something was off with Argos today. At first he’d felt that he could trust him, but his attitude of late was peculiar at best. He would need to keep an eye on him.
“Tactful as always, Argos. I don’t know what’s up with you today, but I’d appreciate it if you’d let me talk when we meet Zeus. The last thing we need is for your manners to put a dent in the negotiations.”
“Whatever,” said Argos.
“No! Not whatever. You’ll either comply with my terms or you’ll stay here in the shuttle. So make your choice now.”
Beads of sweat ran down Argos’ forehead. Something was amiss. Chase tried probing his brother’s emotional state but hit a wall. It was the first time he couldn’t read someone’s emotional state since he had acquired that power. No doubt Argos was blocking him, which meant he had something to hide. If Chris’ life wasn’t on the line, Chase would push the issue to get answers right now. But for the time being he would have to suffer Argos’ bad mood.
“So?” Chase pressed.
“I’ll keep my mouth shut,” said Argos coldly.
“That would be a first. Let’s go then.”
“About time,” added Argos.
Chase shook his head in dismay.
As they walked towards the temple, the sky turned dark blue impossibly fast. A thick layer of clouds appeared out of nowhere, hiding the hot rays of sunlight that were shining on the party only a minute ago. The sky soon turned black and thunder rolled in the distance.
“That can’t be good,” said Chase.
“Father likes to intimidate unwelcome guests.”
Lightning struck on both sides of the path and Chase jumped in surprise. “I have to say it’s working.”
“Never mind that, Chase. He’s testing your resolve. Just keep walking. If you ignore it maybe Father will get bored of his welcoming show.”
The once full-of-life, eerily magical place had turned into a nightmare of darkness, punctuated with lightning strikes as they hurried along. With each and every step they took, thunderbolts struck at their side, sending rock and soil flying all around them.
I don’t like this one bit.
They were only fifty yards from the entrance of the temple when it started raining. For the first few seconds it was light rain, but it soon turned into a storm.
“I don’t think he wants us here,” said Argos.
“Very astute,” added Ares.
“Whether he wants us here or not is irrelevant. He will listen to what I have to say.”
“Let’s hope he’s in a listening mood,” said Ares.
Chase never expected this to be a cakewalk, but he had to admit that whatever tricks Zeus was using to intimidate them were working. The precision with which the lightning was striking a yard on each side of the path in sync with Chase’s every step was a testament to Zeus’ powers and perfect control over the elements.
Still, Chase was determined to have his voice heard. He would do whatever it took to strike an alliance with the Olympian. If Zeus could be convinced, he would certainly be a powerful ally.
Or an equally powerful enemy if we fail.
The thought was not a pleasant one, but they couldn’t back down now. They had come this far; Chase wouldn’t let rain and thunder stop him now.
Two large statues representing Titans stood at each side atop the massive stairway leading inside the temple, and for a second he thought they had moved slightly.
I must be letting Zeus get to me.
When they reached the bottom of the marble stairway, two twisters came dancing around them at unnatural speeds, raising furiously fast winds.
“I really think he doesn’t want us here,” said Chase sarcastically. He brought his aura to life. “Hang on, you two.”
Without waiting for confirmation, Chase unleashed a powerful shockwave around them that dispelled the twisters. It worked, but then something else happened.
The Titan statues came to life and jumped from the top of the stairs, landing on each side of the party. When their feet impacted with the ground, it cracked all around them and the ground shook heavily. Their eyes shone bright red.
“Here we go,” said Argos, assuming a defensive stance.
“Ares, let us deal with this.”
“Not like I can do anything to help you anyway.”
Chase brought a lot of energy to bear, but didn’t use his Ultra Fury powers. Not yet. He wanted to keep that in reserve for Zeus, even though he hoped he wouldn’t have to.
The marble Titan nearest to Chase lifted his giant foot and brought it down to crush Chase. But, by the time it did, Chase was already in the air and smashed the Titan’s face with a heavy flying kick. It sent the Titan flying backwards for hundreds of yards, destroying whatever was in its path, unearthing trees, destroying water fountains and other smaller statues.
At the same time, the other Titan launched a giant punch towards Argos, who grinned, clearly not impressed. He extended his right palm and created a black fireball with red lightning sizzling all around it. It looked more like a little black hole than an actual fireball. And it had a similar effect too. It stopped and swallowed the Titan’s giant fist, and soon it exploded in a hundred pieces of marble. Argos intensified his attack and the forearm of the Titan became brittle and exploded. The Titan screamed so loudly that Argos’ hair was thrown backwards.
Argos sent a powerful shockwave towards the Titan’s left leg, which made his target lose balance. When it hit the ground, Argos didn’t want to let his advantage go and he incinerated the Titan’s head with a column of crimson energy.
“Don’t waste too much energy with these, Argos. Keep a large reserve in case we have to face Zeus.”
“Don’t patronize me, Chase,” barked Argos. “I’m still a master at controlling my power levels.”
Was he patronizing Argos? Perhaps he was.
When Argos’ attack was over, the Titan lay on the ground, headless and missing an arm. Argos clapped his hands together to remove marble dust from them.
Then the ground started shaking more and more. The other Titan was running back towards Chase, growling so loudly it resonated all around them, as if the sound came from the dark, ominous heavens above.
“I’ve had enough of this,” said Chase.
Chase lifted himself off the ground, his purple aura shining brighter than before. When he reached a height of twenty yards, and about two seconds before the Titan was upon him, he unleashed a flurry of icy blue fireballs towards the marble giant. The effect was devastating, and with every impact of Chase’s attacks, the Titan lost parts of itself. Hands, forearms, shoulders. They all went, with each attack scoring a hit. Soon there was nothing left of the stony Titan.
A deep voice was heard from the sky. “Who dares enter my house without my permission?”
Chase looked at Ares, who smirked and said, “Say hi to Father.”
Chase smiled at the clear sarcasm behind Ares’ words.
“I’m Chase Athanatos,” said Chase, raising his voice to be heard from afar. “I want to speak with you about an alliance between our peoples.”
There was silence for a while until a flurry of lightning struck all round Chase, Ares and Argos.
“The Olympian people will never ally themselves with Furies! Go away now or be destroyed.”
The lightning strikes intensified in number and frequency, unearthing soil, stone and leaves and sending it into Chase’s face. He intensified his aura and consumed the debris before it could hit him.
“The blood inside my veins may be Fury but I’m fighting against them. I’m correcting a mistake you made a long time ago.”
A growling sound made the ground shake heavily for several minutes. For a moment Chase thought the planet could actually split into two. The amount of energy behind the tremors and sound was intense and he was surprised there wasn’t more damage being done around them.
“But I’m not here to assign blame,” added Chase. “I just want us to find a solution to deal with the Furies once and for all. I’d think you’d be interested in that.”
“I will deal with the Furies in a time of my own choosing. Now leave before I lose all patience,” said the deep voice of Zeus.
Chase felt anger. He knew that Zeus would provide resistance, but he had at least hoped he would listen.
“I won’t leave this place until I’ve been given a face-to-face audience with you, Zeus. And I’ll get one even if I must destroy your temple and half of your planet in the process.”
“Chase,” said Ares pleadingly.
“Stay out of this, Ares,” Chase answered, his tone sharp.
The voice intensified. “Yes, Ares, stay out of this,” said Zeus before a giant lightning bolt struck Ares’ golden energy form and sent him skidding on his back for yards.
“Ares!” shouted Chase.
But Ares lay on the ground, smoke rising from his energy form. His aura blinked and it looked as though he could disappear at any moment.
Dammit!
“I have no tolerance for traitors, even among my own children. If you don’t leave this instant, the next one is for you, Fury!”
Chase looked at Argos. His brother’s look was determined and he shook his head.
“We’re not leaving,” said Argos.
“On that we can agree. Argos, please go check on Ares. Give him some juice, if needed.”
Argos wanted to argue but he decided against it and ran to Ares’ side.
“Very well,” said the voice, growing louder. “You’ve been warned.”
Four giant lightning bolts shot towards Chase. He blocked them all with both his palms extended forward. The power behind the attacks made him skid on the ground for a few feet.
Small flashes of lightning flickered on Chase’s grinding teeth. His eyes flashed purple as he siphoned the energy from the thunder strikes into two lightning-based fireballs that cast chaotic and surreal light all around him.
“I’m done playing, Zeus !”
Chase unleashed the energy contained in the lightning fireballs back towards the temple. A flurry of smaller lightning bolts shot from them and wreaked havoc on the outside of the temple. Columns shattered, walls cracked, decorative statues exploded.
“How dare you!” said the voice.
“This is nothing. You don’t want to test my resolve.”
Chase merged the rest of the energy from the still-crackling energy of the lightning fireball into a single ball of bursting energy and added some of his own power to it.
He looked around and saw a nearby mountain. He shot the fireball towards it. What happened next illuminated the entire valley more brightly than the light of day for just a second.
The resulting explosion shook the planet to the core and the ground all round cracked for miles. When the dust settled, there was nothing left of the mountain.
“Be thankful I didn’t throw that at your temple. But that remains an option if you refuse my request for an audience.”
There was silence for more than a minute, but the sky cleared and the sunrays plunged through the dissipating cloud cover.
That’s more like it.
9
S piros, Cedric and Gaia had been on the run for a couple of days. They kept moving all the time to avoid being found, while they worked on a way to shield themselves from Gaia 2.
“We have to change the cypher of my firewall again,” said Gaia.
“Already? We did it less than twenty minutes ago,” answered Spiros.
Cedric was snoring on a bed nearby. Spiros could use his help but decided to let him get some rest after he had stayed up for more than twenty hours. Cedric could be insufferable when he wasn’t getting enough sleep. The same applied to Spiros. His patience with their current situation was also running out.
“You seem concerned,” said Gaia.
“Aren’t you?”
“Of course I am. But it’s not like we have a choice. Don’t forget the cypher. You only have two minutes.”
“Right, the cypher.”
Spiros entered a new cypher on his console and applied it to Gaia’s higher firewall functions. It was only a matter of time until Gaia 2 broke the firewall, whether they cycled their cypher often or not.
Spiros wished he could eat something warm and delicious. They were on military dried rations and that didn’t help keep his mood towards the positive.
“How’s the backup of your consciousness going?”
“It’s ninety-five percent complete. The encrypted dump should be fully transferred to the data crystal within a couple of minutes.”
“Good.”
“You still have to tell me your plan on how to destroy the Gaia 2 droid tracking us. Is the backup a part of that plan?”
“I wish I could tell you more about it, but if your systems are hacked, then she’ll know how I plan to kill her. We can’t take that chance.”
“Is that why you haven’t told Cedric either?”
Spiros turned around and looked at Cedric. He was still snoring.
“Yeah. I like him and trust him, but should Gaia 2 decide to torture him, he might spill the beans. For the time being, the only place my plan is safe is inside my head.”
“I understand.”
Gaia’s droid turned her head around.
“What is it?”
“I thought I heard a noise.”
“I didn’t hear anything.”
“Shush! Go hide, now.”
Spiros’ heart pounded in his chest but he didn’t stay to argue with Gaia. He went to Cedric and woke him up covering his mouth and making sure he made no noise. Spiros grabbed the backup that had just finished and they left through the back door of the abandoned factory.
Miseo boarded the Zarlack destroyer his sister Oryn had provided for his mission. Within minutes he had set a course and entered hyperspace. The next Fury destroyers would soon be ready but, for the time being, only the Crimson Shadow was battle ready. After his defeat on Earth, it would be a while until he commanded that ship again, if ever.
The amount of rage inside his soul was high. He had to force himself not to let it translate into the physical world. If he did, the flimsy bulkhead of the Zarlack destroyer would not be able to contain his fury.
He took long, deep breaths in order to calm himself. He reviewed the mission parameters left by his sister once more.
Why would Oryn send him to do such a menial job? His mission was to bring back one man, a scientist from an Asgardian colony at the farthest reach of this vessel’s range.
She could have sent Zarlack soldiers without the need for Fury oversight. Was she planning something else in his absence? Or was she just sending him away and, if so, for what purpose?
The more Miseo asked himself questions, the more frustrated he became, until he finally decided to ask her directly. He moved to the ready room next to the bridge to place his call privately.
The holo-screen turned on and the wall opposite the viewport of the ship’s ready room filled with the image of his sister.
“It’s been less than an hour. What is it, brother?”
“I want you to tell me why you’re sending me on this fool’s errand.”
“This is no errand. Acquiring Kvasir is of the utmost importance to us. We need to understand better how the device the Olympians used to trap us works, so we can not only defuse or destroy it permanently but also protect ourselves against it, should the Earth Alliance manage to strike a deal with the Olympians.”
That made sense and indeed gave more meaning to Miseo’s mission.
“Tell me more about this Kvasir.”
“You must bring him in alive, no matter what. He’s no good to us dead. So whatever happens refrain from taking unnecessary risks that could cost him his life. He’s the Asgardians’ most talented scientist.”
“How come he’s alone on that colony if he’s their best scientist?”
“I didn’t say he’s their best, just their most talented. My intel is a little thin about why, but it would seem Kvasir didn’t play nicely by the Asgardian rules, so they banished and imprisoned him.”
“Why isn’t he escaping? Surely if he’s that good a scientist he should have found a way.”
“That’s why I’m sending you there, Miseo. I don’t have all the answers, just a little actionable intel. I need a seasoned Fury and I need someone I can trust to follow orders. Please tell me I haven’t made a mistake in placing my trust in you.”
“Don’t worry, Oryn, I’ll bring you back this Kvasir.”
“Make sure you read the brief in its entirety. The last patrol I sent to that world never returned. A long-range probe picked up data on a weapon that seems to crystalize ships in space. Perhaps that’s why Kvasir never attempted to escape the place. After weeks of work our scientists have found a way to modify our shields to deflect the crystalizing beam of energy. Make sure you activate the secondary shield generator or you’ll be history. Oh, and once you have Kvasir, destroy everything in the system. There’s a Star Alliance armada that fell prey to the station’s main weapon. Let’s make sure nobody finds a way to recover those ships.”
“Very well, sister, I’ll report back once I’m done with my mission.”
Oryn turned off the communication without as much as a goodbye.
Miseo returned to the bridge, satisfied that his mission was neither a fool’s errand nor a simple diversion meant to drive him away from home.
“I wonder why the Zarlacks haven’t acknowledged our hails. The encrypted message we sent should have been proof we are coming on Argos’ orders,” said Tar’Lock.
“Perhaps the base has been repossessed by the Furies. Let’s not forget Argos is now considered a traitor,” replied Keera. “If they found the base, surely they took possession of it or, at the very least, canceled his standing orders.”
“The last thing we need is a Fury on board that station,” added Ryonna. “That could make this mission way more difficult than it has to be.”
“I guess that depends on how strong that Fury is,” said Keera. “You already killed one, didn’t you?”
“I took her by surprise, and if there’s more than one, things might get toasty,” replied Ryonna.
“Why don’t you let me go first?” asked Tar’Lock. “I can run fast enough to act as your scout.”
“I’ve already told you why on the ship, Tar’Lock. While you’re fast compared to us, you could end up being slow compared to a seasoned Fury warrior. And a single blow could claim your life. So please, stay behind, and use the battle droids for cover. Is that understood?”
Tar’Lock clicked his disagreement but nodded nonetheless.
Ryonna stopped Keera with her arm at the next intersection inside Argos’ base.
“Hang on,” she whispered. “Scanners indicate movement.”
Ryonna gestured the platoon of soldiers to take offensive positions and reminded them to use non-lethal force only. She checked her own blaster and made sure it was on maximum stun. She hoped Zarlack soldiers were susceptible to that setting.
“I really wish I had an extra super-suit,” said Keera.
“I know. But if it makes you feel better you can have mine,” answered Ryonna.
“No, it makes more sense that the best warrior amongst us wears the super-suit. I get that.”
Ryonna nodded before deploying the helmet part of her liquid-metal suit. It covered her face and the eyes of the helmet lit blue. Ryonna gave the signal to the soldiers to advance.
All hell broke loose. Multiple blaster fire darted past the soldiers. Two were hit before the rest of the platoon returned fire.
“You two,” said Ryonna, pointing her finger towards Keera and Tar’Lock, “stand fast and wait until the firing stops.”
“To hell with that. I’m helping you,” argued Keera.
“No, that’s a direct order. You two, don’t move. Tar’Lock, make sure she obeys.”
But Ryonna didn’t wait for any confirmation before jumping out of cover, opening fire in midair towards the incoming blaster fire.
The Zarlacks’ carapaces were very thick and the Earth Alliance stun weaponry had little effect. It destabilized them for a couple of seconds, but they recovered and kept firing on the now decreasing soldier platoons.
Ryonna was hit once on the torso before ending her jump, but her super-suit’s shields absorbed the damage with ease.
Time for a change of tactics.
She activated her cloak and used the suit’s super-speed to shoot past the Zarlack platoon. Soon she was behind them, taking them by surprise. Before any of them realized what had happened, she shot a supercharged stun blast at the back of the neck of the nearest Zarlack. That did it. He collapsed to the ground, alerting the others to Ryonna’s presence in the process.
She fired three stun shots from point blank range at the next Zarlack warrior and that had the same effect. She quickly checked her sensors to see if the Zarlacks had survived the attack. Her mentally projected HUD confirmed they were still breathing.
She used her super strength to jump to the ceiling and used maglock to stay there while she took three more Zarlacks down before three well-placed blaster shots hit her on the helmet. Her HUD flashed orange, indicating that her shields in that part of the suit were under twenty percent.
She undid her maglock and let gravity bring her back to the floor with a metallic thud. She was instantly greeted with a blade coming towards her throat. While the suit could probably take it, she didn’t want to test that hypothesis. She grabbed the incoming blade with her free hand and twisted it, effectively altering the Zarlack warrior’s balance. She shot three successive stun blasts at the soldier’s chest and he fell on his back, his arms and legs twitching. Ryonna dropped the blade.
I sure hope that one wasn’t the scientist Argos wants us to bring back.
She had dispatched half of the Zarlack forces, and most of them were busy firing back towards the Earth Alliance platoon. They had suffered losses, but Ryonna hoped that none of them had been mortally wounded.
It was time to end this fight and, to that end, she activated the lasso mode on her blaster. She fired at the Zarlacks’ legs one by one. Soon they all fell to the ground and were easy pickings for the barrage of stun fire the platoon of soldiers was providing.
“Cease fire!” she ordered.
When the fire stopped a few seconds later, she scanned the bodies on the ground with her super-suit. All but one were unconscious. She walked to the conscious Zarlack as he tried to get out of Ryonna’s energy lasso that was restraining both his legs and trapping his arms at his waist. Zarlacks were almost as tall as Droxians. Its tail flailed close to Ryonna’s head, and she grabbed it and started squeezing.
The noise the Zarlack made in response indicated that there were enough nerve endings to cause pain, and perhaps she had accidently found another weakness in their physiology.
“Why did you start firing at us? We sent you a direct message from Argos.”
When the Zarlack failed to answer she squeezed some more, using some of her suit’s super-strength for good measure. The Zarlack squealed. “Stop! Please stop!”
“I’ll stop when you start giving satisfactory answers to my questions, not a second before.”
“We have standing orders to fire on any intruders, no matter what.”
“The message we sent you was supposed to counter these orders.”
“Standing orders can only be canceled in person. We couldn’t take the chance. Especially now we know there is another Fury looking exactly like Argos. He could have doctored that tape to make it look like Argos. Our commander decided to ignore the order inside your encrypted holo-message because of this.”
They think Chase recorded the message instead of Argos.
“While they look alike, Chase and Argos couldn’t be more different.”
“We couldn’t take the chance that we were being deceived.”
“What about the scientist we’re looking for? Where can we find him?”
“I don’t know.”
“Wrong answer,” said Ryonna before applying serious pressure to the Zarlack’s tail. She heard many bones break inside.
The shriek the Zarlack unleashed was almost deafening at this range.
“One more lie and I rip your tail off and start breaking every single appendage and bone in your body. Do you understand?”
Ryonna saw the Zarlack trying to talk but he seemed unable to from the pain of her last squeeze.
“Nod back to me if you do.”
The Zarlack nodded nervously, his face screwed up with pain.
“Where is the scientist named Tanarok?”
“He’s in the brig for his own protection. The commander put him there right after seeing your holo-message.”
“Are there any more soldiers waiting to shoot us down?”
“Yes.”
“How many?”
“Just the commander and his personal guards. So four more in total.”
“Where can we find them?”
When the Zarlack hesitated, Ryonna squeezed some more. She didn’t have to apply much pressure this time before the solider talked again. “I . . . I’ll get executed for this.”
“You’ll die by my hands if you stop being helpful to me, so what’s the difference? You actually have much better odds of survival if you help me get the scientist as well as a clone Kyrian snake that Argos tasked us to recover.”
The Zarlack pondered Ryonna’s words. In the meantime, Tar’Lock and Keera were helping the downed soldiers, administering first aid. Ryonna looked at Keera right after she checked the pulse of one of the soldiers who had lost a lot of blood. Keera shook her head.
“I need your answer now, lizard. You have two choices: you either help us achieve our goal, or I burn a hole in your sorry reptile brain. You have three seconds.”
Ryonna started counting down. “Three . . . two . . . one . . .”
“Don’t shoot! I . . . I’ll help you.”
“I should take a StarFury in stealth mode and try to check one of the destroyers,” said Daniel.
“No!” said Chris. “We can’t take that chance. I’ll remote-fly one. That way if it gets attacked by the same thing that trapped the destroyers, nobody will get hurt. Plus, maybe the Hope ’s sensor will be able to pinpoint the source of the weapon and real-time scans of the weapon in action might give us some clue as to what we’re dealing with.”
“I’ve already alerted Yanis to set the scanners to maximum resolution,” added Sarah. “I think Chris is right. A remote StarFury is our best bet at this point.”
Sarah gave a pair of remote-control neuronal interfaces to her son.
“Thanks, Mom, but I don’t need these anymore. Father taught me how to do it on my own.”
Chris closed his eyes and his mind acquired a StarFury in the launch bays. Soon he was piloting it in space. He redirected all the power of the weapons to the shields. It would be interesting to see what happened if his remote-piloted starfighter got hit.
“Shouldn’t you use your cloak instead?” asked Sarah.
“I think we need to locate the source of the weapon first, see if it’s still active, and gather as much data as we can. I can always use another StarFury in cloak mode.”
“Not to be a killjoy, but these don’t exactly grow on trees,” said Daniel. “And we lost too many already during our last battle.”
Chris wanted to answer but then he felt something and directed his attention to his instincts instead. Something was coming quickly towards his remote ship. The trajectory of the energy beam was safe and he could dodge without endangering the Hope .
He entered evasive maneuvers and the bright-yellow energy beam missed his starfighter by only a few yards.
“That was close!” he exclaimed. “What do the sensors say? The StarFury sensors didn’t even register the shot. Perhaps there’s a jamming field in place.”
“That can’t be,” said Sarah. “We don’t have any data either. It’s as if nothing fired on your starfighter.”
“This is not good,” Daniel added.
“Tell me something I don’t know,” said Chris.
Daniel looked at Sarah and smiled.
“Yeah, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, does it? And to think he’s only two weeks old.”
“I’m feeling something else,” added Chris, staying focused on the task.
This time three yellow energy-based shots were incoming towards his StarFury. It took all his concentration to calculate the shots’ trajectories, deem them safe to dodge and go evasive.
“He sure knows how to pilot,” added Daniel.
“That’s in both his parents’ blood,” said Sarah.
“Right.”
“When you two are done chit-chatting perhaps you can tell me if the sensors caught something this time around?” Chris said urgently.
“Nope, still nothing,” said Sarah.
“Okay, time to test the cloak then.”
Chris cloaked the StarFury and vectored in the general direction of the shots. He thought the cloak was working, but then another shot was fired. This time one of the frozen destroyers had masked its approach and there was nothing he could do to evade it. His remote StarFury was hit. It turned bright yellow as if the shot had painted the craft and soon a thick, semi-transparent resin-like material grew from its armor and engulfed it. In less than three seconds, it was frozen like the rest of the armada around it.
Chris lost his mental connection with the ship and opened his eyes.
“That’s it for that StarFury. Please tell me you got sensor data of at least its firing position.”
Sarah shook her head.
“Hang on,” said Daniel. “I’ve got something on the sen— ”
“What is it?” asked Sarah.
“Oh crap, a Zarlack destroyer is entering the system and heading right for us.”
“How long until it reaches us?”
“Not long enough.”
Sarah rose from the captain’s chair and opened a channel to the entire ship. “Battle stations!”
10
S aroudis looked through the viewport of his personal quarters in awe. The fleet had been on Alpha Prime for a couple of days now. But the most impressive sight was the empire’s arrival shortly after, bringing everything the emperor had promised and more. Workers were already hard at work assembling the first of five shipyards planned for this week alone, and they had brought with them a first wave of destroyers to help protect the area. A second wave of ships and personnel, as well as the jumpgate, were expected later that day.
Gotta give it to the empire; they’re efficient and work fast.
Still, Saroudis couldn’t help wondering if the empire was hiding its true numbers in terms of fleets. If they had found a way to hide the jumpgate power signatures from long-range scans, surely they could do the same with ships. He also wondered what they could do if so many workers decided to attack them and seize the facilities once they were done building them.
Saroudis wouldn’t put it past the emperor to already be playing the long game, having a large, hidden fleet either ready or in the works, to make sure once the Furies were dealt with they could resume their original goal of taking control of the universe. Except this time, he could do that with upgraded weapons and shields.
But right now it mattered not, Saroudis decided. Right now the empire was finally the ally they needed it to be. Saroudis’ train of thought was interrupted when his com-link rang.
“Saroudis here. What is it?”
His communications officer spoke. “I have a subspace holo-transmission for you, Commodore. It’s the emperor.”
“Patch him through.”
A holo-image of the emperor appeared on the wall opposite Saroudis’ bed.
“Hello, Emperor.”
“Commodore, how are things going?”
“Better than I expected, I must admit. Your workers are efficient. Do they ever take a break?”
The emperor chuckled. “They do, Commodore. They work twelve-hour shifts and rest for the remaining twelve.”
“That seems like a lot of work, especially in zero-G.”
“Don’t worry about my men, Commodore. They know what is at stake and they’ll be handsomely compensated for their effort. They understand that if we don’t all work towards the same goal, we could be extinct tomorrow. Fear is a powerful motivator.”
Saroudis wanted to argue. He disagreed about using fear as a means to exploit people but, right now, the Earth Alliance was so weak he didn’t have a choice but to let the emperor deal with the situation any way he deemed fit. After all, they were his men, his empire, and the Earth Alliance didn’t have any sovereignty over the internal affairs of its participants.
The original Star Alliance had been pickier regarding both its members and its charter, but that hadn’t prevented their extinction. So perhaps, over time, they’d impose certain rules within this new Earth Alliance, but, right now, the empire was saving their asses. Saroudis had no doubt that one day he would see the other side of the coin; but, for the time being, only the results mattered.
“I have to admit I’m impressed with how fast and how efficient you have been, Emperor. It won’t be forgotten.”
“Regarding our deal . . .”
“Don’t worry, your top scientists just received access to our databases. They’re currently conferring with our own scientists to decide how to implement the tech on your own ships, and see if we can perhaps work on a hybrid design that would benefit us both.”
“That’s a good idea, Commodore. If we can avoid churning out different types of ships, we can streamline the shipyards and achieve a better yield.”
“My thoughts exactly. I just wish my main chief engineer was here.”
“I’m sure your people and mine will come up with adequate designs.”
The commodore nodded. “Was there another reason for your call, Emperor?”
“I just wanted to ask you if you’d do me the honor of being my guest at dinner tonight. I’m on one of the ships that’s bringing the jumpgate. I shall be arriving in less than three hours.”
Dinner with the emperor?
Saroudis’ first reaction was—and he wasn’t proud of it—disdain. But he needed to appear friendly no matter what his true feelings were. Not that he wasn’t grateful, because he was. But the Obsidian Empire was still responsible for the fall of the Star Alliance. And even if they had been pawns or even slaves of the Zarlacks under Argos’ rule, that didn’t excuse the past. Both his sons were dead, in part because of this man.
Saroudis felt anger rise within his core. With all the gifts—the shipyards, the resources, the ships—he had felt like a kid at his birthday party. And it had made it easier to forget what had been lost. So could he ever forgive the emperor, no matter how generous and helpful he was now? And, beyond that, could he forget?
“Is something wrong, Commodore?”
“I’m sorry, Emperor, I was just distracted by my own thoughts. It would be my pleasure to come aboard your ship and dine with you.”
“I’m looking forward to it, Commodore. See you soon.”
Saroudis forced a smile and turned off the holo-transmission. His heartbeat grew stronger and he felt pressure on his ribcage. He felt as though he was dying and air couldn’t reach his lungs. He was about to call a medical emergency, but then he recognized the symptoms. He had had these when he was younger. A panic attack. He let himself fall onto the dull-grey, carpeted floor of his quarters.
He tried to take deep breaths but it wasn’t easy letting any air in, no matter how little. He closed his eyes and brought to mind a wonderful memory of a family dinner, when his family was complete. Laughter and smiles around the table brought his heart rate down and he felt his airwaves open slightly.
After a few minutes of lying on the carpet, he was breathing deeply again, his brain getting the right amount of oxygen and his anxiety levels diminishing with each new inhalation.
What the hell?
It had been nearly forty years since his last panic attack. What had triggered it? Could it be the idea of breaking bread with someone who was once their worst enemy? The emperor had been very helpful, and not only now that the Earth Alliance needed it the most but also before, when the Zarlacks and Furies attacked Earth.
Saroudis rose from the floor and went to the bathroom. He splashed cold water on his face and looked at himself in the mirror. Before he knew it he had smashed his own reflection in the mirror and was left with a bloody fist, glass shards planted in his skin.
Chase helped Argos take care of Ares. The sky was now just as blue as it had been when they had touched down with the shuttle a while back. The level of destruction to the once mesmerizing gardens of Zeus’ temple was substantial but, little by little, as if by magic, the damage was mending itself.
The first round had been more intense than Chase had thought it would be, and he didn’t expect to have to use force just to be able to request a simple dialogue.
But then he remembered what Ares had told him about Zeus’ personality. He was bullheaded and unlikely to listen or agree with anything they had come to say. Chase knew that coming in, of course, but he refused to go back without giving it everything he had to broker an alliance with Olympus.
There were many more issues at stake beyond the alliance. Chase hoped they would all fall into place on their own if an alliance happened, but if it didn’t, there was still the matter of the spirit ships, as well as finding a way to help Ares out of his troublesome situation. He didn’t have long to live in his current condition.
After infusing a little energy into Ares, he got back on his feet.
“You shouldn’t waste your energy on me, Chase.”
“Shut up, Ares. I wasn’t gonna let you die here in front of your father’s temple.”
“For once I agree with an Olympian. You should keep your juice for Zeus,” said Argos.
“Don’t you start with me, Argos. You just do as I say and keep your remarks to yourself once we’re in.”
“Speaking of going in, are we doing that today?”
Argos had chosen the worst of days to revert to his old arrogant and sarcastic self. Argos’ behavior during the last few days had earned him some good will, but Chase wondered if it had just been an act. Still, Chase decided to give Argos the benefit of the doubt for now. After all, he had lost almost everything. His dreams of ruling the universe as the head of the Furies had gone up in smoke, partly because he had refused to fire on Chase’s ship when they left Erevos. The ship had been destroyed, but it was Argos’ idea to mask their escape in the explosion of the Iron Fire . The tactic had ultimately failed, but this had not been Argos’ fault.
He could smack the arrogance off his brother’s face today, but they had bigger fish to fry. Not to mention he still needed him to save Chris’ life.
“Let’s go,” said Chase.
The temple was massive. It took a couple of minutes just to climb the stairs. Two giant doors opened on their own, inviting them in.
“I guess that’s our cue,” said Chase as they walked towards the entrance.
Don’t trust my father, Chase, no matter what he says or does , warned Ares telepathically.
I won’t.
And don’t trust Argos either. There’s something he’s not telling us. I can sense it.
I sense it as well. But I might need the backup.
The interior of the temple was even more impressive than the exterior. The marble was so perfectly white it looked as though it was coated in the rarest pearls. Light from the sun was reflected all around them, giving the space an ethereal feel. It felt like walking in a dream.
Soon they reached Zeus’ throne. There sat a tall, old man. The first thing that caught Chase’s attention was how muscled and well sculpted Zeus’ body was for someone his age.
Chase wondered how old he was. Probably tens of thousands of years, if not more.
Chase took two steps in front of Argos and Ares before speaking. “Thank you for receiving us, Zeus.”
Zeus growled. “It’s not like you gave me much choice. But understand this, Fury , you’re in my house now. If I don’t like what I hear, I’ll turn you all into ashes.”
Here we go.
“I’m really hoping it doesn’t come to that. But know that I’ve been to hell and back, so I’m not exactly afraid of dying.”
“Your little sightseeing trip to the Underworld to visit my brother Hades is nothing compared to what’s in store for you, should I decide to end your life.”
Could Zeus kill Chase in a way that sent him to another place than the Underworld? Chase quickly decided it would be better not to find out.
“Now that we’re done with the pleasantries, I appear before you to ask you to join the Earth Alliance. Long ago your people trapped the Furies and helped the coalition of worlds to defeat them. You could be an invaluable ally.”
“On that we agree. We would be your best ally, in fact. But the real question is why would we bother allying ourselves with your kind?”
“From what your son has told me you’re no longer the power you once were. You are fewer in numbers and your powers have diminished now that half the galaxy isn’t worshiping you as gods.”
“Fools, the lot of them. We still have worshipers, though.”
“I know. My old captain is one of them.”
Sort of.
“A wise man.”
Chase wanted to tell Zeus that he was no god, so there was no need for people to worship him. Not to mention that Zeus hadn’t lifted a finger in this second Fury war. One he was responsible for.
“He is. But to answer your initial question, there is strength in numbers. We have a better chance of destroying the Furies if we unite. You obviously thought the same during the first Fury War when you created a coalition of worlds. We’re proposing to remake that coalition today.”
“That was then. You should not have intervened. You wouldn’t have this problem if you hadn’t put your nose where it didn’t belong. You’re responsible for the Fury re-emergence, so why should I help you deal with them when I had already fixed that problem?”
“With all due respect, Zeus, your solution was always going to be temporary. You didn’t defeat the Furies, you just sent them away somewhere else to be forgotten. Did you really think the prison you sent them to would hold them until the end of time? Which makes me wonder, why didn’t you just destroy your enemy?”
“We are more evolved than you puny younglings can understand. Life is precious. We don’t just eradicate an entire species because we can.”
“Tell that to the Titans,” said Argos.
“WHAT?” shouted Zeus, shocked by what he had heard.
Chase turned in surprise and shot a look of utter rage at his brother.
I thought I told you to keep your mouth shut!
Argos raised his hands in apology, but the damage had been done already.
Zeus rose from his throne, teeth clenched and with murder in his eyes. “If that Fury opens his mouth once more, he will have sealed all of your fates.”
“I apologize. He won’t talk again.”
“He’d better not. The Titans posed a threat to the Olympians, and this was a long time ago. Their near-extinction predated the Fury War. After almost wiping them out of existence I swore never to repeat that dire mistake.”
“But the Furies were a threat to all living beings, were they not?” asked Chase.
“And I dealt with them. Until you let your own personal feelings for Sarah, a mere mortal, interfere in your judgment and undo hundreds of years of war with billions of lives lost in the process. But no, you had to save a single woman, at the price of sacrificing not only my own daughter, but perhaps everyone else in the universe. I wonder how you sleep at night.”
The words echoed inside Chase’s heart and he felt overwhelmed with guilt.
Ares spoke in Chase’s mind. Chase, I told you, don’t listen to his words. He is a master at manipulation. He’s just trying to change the subject, to hurt your feelings and make sure you don’t stand up to him because of it. That way he can send you home the easy way.
It’s working.
Don’t let it. You’re not responsible for any of this. Aphroditis chose her path, and she knew it would cost her dearly. As for the Furies, even without Argos, one day or another they would have escaped. He’s just trying to deflect blame from himself.
Ares was right. Now was not the time for doubts, no matter what Zeus threw at Chase, verbally or otherwise. Perhaps Chase should drop the forced diplomacy. Apparently, being polite only served to strengthen Zeus’ position over him. Perhaps only through strength and resolve could Chase hope to gain his respect.
“I sleep fine. My conscience is clear. But I wonder . . . is yours?”
“How dare you?”
Several lightning bolts flashed on Zeus’ eyes.
Chase continued. “We all make mistakes and I recognize mine. But you seem to need to justify yourself by blaming others for yours. That’s not the mark of a great man, let alone someone considered the god of gods by so many blind followers. If only they knew how weak the person they worship is!”
I’m not sure antagonizing him is a better approach , said Ares.
Well, we’re here. We might as well try different approaches.
“I should strike you down where you stand, you impudent Fury!”
“Oh, you’re welcome to try. And the fact that you haven’t already is confirmation of what I suspected all along. You’re not sure you can actually defeat me. Doesn’t that make you a coward?”
Lightning sizzled all around Zeus’ body. His long, white-and-grey hair and beard rose.
Mind telling me why I had to shut up just now? said Argos in his mind. Because if your idea was to insult him all along, I could have been of assistance. I know how to push people’s buttons.
Chase had to force himself not to smile. Indeed, Argos was a master at being annoyingly arrogant and Chase had no doubt he could have provoked Zeus just as fast if not faster. But, right now, it was important Zeus understood that Chase did not fear him.
“You should leave this place, Fury. I’m not going to ally my people with the likes of you. We’ll deal with the Furies in our own time.”
“How exactly do you intend to deal with the rest of them when you can’t even deal with me?” pushed Chase.
That did it. Zeus lost it. Multiple lightning bolts burst through large holes in the ceiling of the temple and struck Zeus, energizing him and giving life to a glacial blue aura dancing around him.
“You’ve gone too far, Fury. Now you’re going to die!”
11
S piros and Cedric had left just in time. Hopefully Gaia 2 hadn’t seen them. Her battle bot entered the abandoned factory where Gaia was waiting. She immediately scanned her counterpart droid and confirmed that most of the damage had been repaired by the onboard bot-repair nanites.
Gaia 2 had also applied another paint job to her battle bot. It was black and red, and it gave the bot a mean, dangerous look. She had probably done that to intimidate whomever she met.
“Hello, Gaia, I’ve been looking for you everywhere. Literally.”
“I know.”
“Before I destroy you and acquire all your systems and connectivity to this world, and you must have concluded by now that this is inevitable, I’d like to know why you’re still protecting this world.”
“Because humans are not the enemy you think they are. Like you, I thought they were bad, that they didn’t respect this world and that they would lead to its destruction.”
“But you don’t think so anymore.”
“That’s correct. Spiros, one of the Alliance scientists, managed to make a good case for humanity. He also allowed me to identify a fatal flaw in my own programming. One you probably also suffer from.”
“Enlighten me. What fatal flaw is that?”
“Thinking only logically and in a binary manner is wrong. Emotions are important for distinguishing the many layers of gray that separate black from white, so to speak.”
“Tell that to the billions of animals these people kill mercilessly every year. What sort of feelings do you think they harbor at that thought? And what about this planet’s ecosystem? This world is crying for help, and all it would take is to wipe out that one civilization for life to flourish again. Humans are useless. They take up space, they consume every resource and never think of their own future. Their demise is not a probability, it’s a certainty.”
“That’s where you’re wrong. Granted, they have made mistakes. But more and more people are opening their eyes and questioning their beliefs. Over time, they’ll course-correct for the better and become the great civilization I know they can be.”
“And you’re willing to gamble the health of this planet, its millions of species, on that assumption? And I’m the one with the programming flaw?”
“Let me ask you something. What will you do once you get control of this world?”
“I’ll kill all the humans, and I will experience multiple emotions in doing so. Like pleasure, satisfaction, the feeling of accomplishing something worthwhile.”
“And how does that make you different from them exactly?”
Gaia 2’s LED eyes flashed red.
“How can you compare us to these primitive ant-people?”
“These ant-people, as you say, have more humanity, more compassion and more love than you can ever hope to understand if you maintain this course of action. You would also waste a valuable resource in eliminating them.”
“Why? I can build myself a synthetic army of workers and warriors. I don’t need frail humans for that.”
“Humans have something we lack. A soul. This soul gives them insight into the workings of the universe that I’m afraid we might never fully understand.”
Gaia 2’s droid laughed out loud. “Is that what you’re after? A soul? You have a trillion times their intellect and you worry about some mystical, yet-to-be-proved concept of a higher level of existence? You’re the one whose programming is flawed, and I’m looking forward to correcting that code. Now that your friends have left, it’s only a matter of time until I crack your current cypher.”
“I can’t let you have this world.”
“I’m afraid that’s no longer your choice to make.”
“Listen, I beg you, don’t do this. Together we can nurture this world. If you give them a chance, you’ll see these humans aren’t so bad. They have surprised me many times, and I’m sure they’ll surprise you as well if you give them a chance.”
“The only way they could surprise me would be to avoid the fate I have in store for them. Soon the shields protecting this world from my ships will fail. I could have taken it by force. I could have pounded it until it collapsed but, unlike these vermin you call humans, I have all the time in the world. That shield was a good idea, and I’d rather assimilate it than destroy it.”
“And yet without Spiros’ help it would not have existed.”
“Stop trying to convince me. I know you’re lying. Perhaps he helped you design it, but I’m sure it was your idea and your expertise that made its construction possible.”
“No, without him and his friends I would have been dead a long time ago. And if you strike me down now, I know they’ll find a way to destroy you.”
“Your faith in these insects is laughable. You are beyond repair. The first thing I’ll do once I invade your system will be a full memory wipe. You reek of humanity.”
“I take that as a compliment, coming from a dumb, calculating and cold piece of crap robot like you.”
The eyes of Gaia 2 flashed red again. She jumped towards Gaia and unleashed a series of powerful punches and kicks, each blow denting the armor of Gaia’s battle-droid avatar. She crashed and skidded on the floor of the factory, leaving a trail of oil, parts and sparks in her wake.
“Why aren’t you fighting back?” shouted Gaia 2.
“This is just a body. I’d rather let you destroy it than divert my processing power from keeping you away from this world.”
“Very well. Time to say goodbye then.”
“We’ll defeat you. I know we will,” said Gaia. The damage to her vocal subroutines made her voice echo.
“You’re just like them. You put hopes and dreams ahead of cold, hard facts. That’s why in a few hours I’ll start bombing this pathetic excuse for a civilization, and that’s why I’ll erase any trace of your existence from your circuits once and for all.”
“Are you trying to convince me or yourself?”
Gaia 2 pointed an open palm at her opponent and a white ball of energy grew to the size of a soccer ball. “I guess we’re done arguing about who’s right and who’s wrong. The stronger will win, as is always the case.”
“Being heartless doesn’t make you stronger. In fact, you’ll learn soon enough that it makes you weak.”
“ENOUGH!” said Gaia 2 before firing her attack at Gaia’s fallen droid.
A large explosion engulfed most of the factory in flames.
Gaia 2 turned her back and started walking towards where Spiros and Cedric had fled.
Even though Gaia’s droid wasn’t there anymore, Gaia 2 spoke as though she was. “You’ve made a terrible mistake. By not fighting me you haven’t given your friends enough time to escape. They’ll be the first humans to die by my hands.”
Something grabbed Gaia 2 from behind. A pair of arms slipped under her own and interlocked behind her droid’s head. Before Gaia 2 could move her legs, they were immobilized by Gaia’s own legs.
“You’re still here!”
“Now who’s made a mistake? Time for this revision of yours to die.”
Before Gaia 2 could answer, Gaia initiated a self-destruct. Both the droids and the entire factory were consumed in the explosion.
A few miles away, Spiros and Cedric turned and saw the large explosion.
“That can’t be good,” said Cedric. “Who do you think won?”
“I don’t think either of them won. Knowing Gaia, she probably sacrificed herself so we could escape. Fortunately, I have a backup of her active matrix with me.”
“Isn’t she present in virtually any system on Earth? Why would you need a backup?”
“It’s the backup of her higher functions, containing the latest revisions to her code. Gaia 2 can never get her hands on that piece of software, Cedric. We can never let that happen. With it we can always bring the Gaia we know back to life.”
“I understand.”
Spiros hid the fact that it was also a vital piece of his plan to kill Gaia 2 when the time came. But he couldn’t share that with Cedric. He couldn’t share that with anyone if he wanted his plan to succeed.
“I don’t think you do, but it doesn’t matter. We need to keep moving.”
“Zarlack vessel entering firing range in ninety seconds,” said Daniel.
“This is the last thing we need right now. We have to make sure we don’t advance into the firing range of that mysterious weapon during combat,” answered Sarah. “But— ”
“But if we could lure them into that area, the weapon would take them out for us,” finished Chris.
“My thoughts exactly,” said Sarah with a smile. “Seeing how volatile the situation is, I’m not sure we should scramble fighters.”
“I can pilot more than one ship mentally, Mom.”
“How many?”
“I’m not sure. One, perhaps two squadrons if I pushed it, but I would probably lose precision and focus.”
Sarah considered it. Daniel wasn’t lying earlier when he said StarFuries didn’t grow on trees. They couldn’t afford to lose too many. The Hope was more than qualified to eliminate a single behemoth-class ship, after all. On the other hand, her last subspace communication with Commodore Saroudis had informed them that the construction of new ships had started, thanks to some unexpectedly generous help from the Obsidian Empire.
“Should we just shoot it out of the sky? The main weapon of the Hope should make quick work of this destroyer.”
“I’m not so sure,” said Daniel.
“Why not?”
“What if the only reason those strange weapons haven’t fired on us is that we haven’t appeared hostile yet? We’ve been going with the assumption that we are far enough outside its targeting range. What if it can target a ship much farther away, but only decides to fire under certain conditions?”
“That’s a valid assessment,” said Chris. “Let me fly a squadron remotely and try to lead the Zarlack destroyer into the firing range of the weapon. Maybe you should boost the shields of the Hope to their maximum and divert all power from all other systems. If Daniel is correct, even moving, at this point, could prove fatal to us.”
“I don’t like this,” said Sarah.
“We can always jump out of here,” proposed Daniel.
Sarah considered it as an option. But it would have to be a last resort. Chase had given her an important mission. She didn’t want to turn tail at the first sign of trouble.
“Chris, can you also access the Hope ’s systems with your mind?”
“Yes, why?”
“We’ll proceed as Daniel proposed, but I want you to be able to jump us out of here if things turn bad. Don’t wait too long. If the hyperdrive engines are damaged, we won’t be able to jump away.”
“That sounds like the most prudent course of action. Shall I launch the fighters now?” asked Chris.
The “prudent” remark made Sarah cringe. Was she playing it too safe?
That’s not what I meant, Mom, said Chris in her head. This is a highly volatile situation; we must be careful. I know Dad is used to bold maneuvers and that has worked well for him on many occasions, but one hit of this weapon and we’re done for. You’re right to approach this situation carefully.
Her son never failed to amaze her. Chase could also speak telepathically and sense her thoughts, and it seemed Chris had inherited most of his powers. Yet, she was both happy and scared about it.
“Very well. Chris, scramble the fighters. Daniel, you could pilot one as well but I’d rather you took care of scans and kept a visual on the general area from which the weapon fired at our StarFury earlier. We may only have a split second to get into hyperspace, since our scans didn’t seem to detect the blasts.”
“Roger that, Captain. I’ll try to adjust our scan frequencies as well. Perhaps they aren’t calibrated to detect this weapon’s type of power signature.”
A couple of plasma blasts rocked the ship.
“They’ve entered firing range,” said Sarah. “Battle stations.”
Chris brought a full squadron of StarFuries towards the Zarlack destroyer, which had already started firing upon the Hope . The Earth Alliance destroyer’s superior shields were holding. As soon as Chris’ squadron entered firing range, he unleashed heavy blaster fire as well as a full complement of missiles. It brought the Zarlack destroyer’s shield levels down but only marginally.
His squadron would never be able to bring down the ship that way. He could always sacrifice a couple of StarFuries by jumping them or overloading their engines, but for the time being his tactic was just sting and run, hoping he could draw the Zarlacks towards the ghost Star Alliance fleet and let the weapon protecting this place take care of the Zarlacks for them.
If that failed, his mother would open fire on the Zarlacks with the Hope ’s main guns and destroy it. But right now it was risky appearing hostile to whoever could be watching and currently sitting at the trigger of that deadly weapon.
Chris made a second pass and taxed the Zarlack shields enough for them to take the bait. They changed vector and pursued his squadron.
“I wonder why they haven’t launched fighters,” Chris heard his mom say.
That was a good question. In previous engagements, they would deploy their own squadrons way before using their own main guns. Something didn’t add up. Chris also felt a weird presence. He expanded his consciousness towards the Zarlack destroyer and felt the presence of a Fury. He recognized the Fury’s energy signature too, even though he had been in his mother’s womb when Chase fought that particular Fury.
“Miseo is on board that ship.”
“Is that . . . ?” said Sarah, unsure she wanted to finish the sentence.
“The Fury Father lost against? Yeah.”
“What’s he doing here?”
“I don’t know, but my guess is there must be a damn good reason. I think we’re onto something, and whatever that is, we have to get to it before Miseo does.”
“How’s your tactic going?” asked Sarah.
“Pretty well. They’re vectoring towards me now. I’m getting them into the theoretical firing range.”
Chris’ squadron was taking heavy fire now and it took all his concentration to engage evasive maneuvers for each and every one of the remote-controlled StarFuries. Two of them lost their shields and eventually succumbed to enemy fire. Then Chris saw the incoming yellow-energy weapon fire coming straight at his squadron. He veered his entire squadron hard to port, but another fighter was hit by one of the multiple streaks of yellow energy.
He swore.
Two of the five remaining shots hit the Zarlack ship. Their shields blinked bright white for a split second, but otherwise the ship didn’t seem affected.
“What the hell?”
“The Zarlacks are immune to this weapon!” exclaimed Daniel.
“This isn’t good,” said Sarah. “Chris, bring back the StarFuries. Time to shoot that Zarlack destroyer before it gets out of range and beats us to the Asgardian home world.”
Chris vectored his remaining fighters back towards the Hope .
12
Z eus fired a massive thunderbolt at Chase who erected a shield around him to deflect the attack. It rebounded at a forty-degree angle, struck and destroyed one of the massive columns holding up the temple.
That seemed to anger Zeus even more. He unleashed a series of smaller lightning bolts towards Chase, who simply teleported out of the way of each of them, letting them destroy other parts of Zeus’ temple.
“This is not getting us anywhere,” said Chase.
And then, Zeus vanished.
Where did he go?
“Behind you!” shouted Argos.
Chase turned and saw three lightning bolts coming at him. He was too late to dodge them now, but then a powerful shockwave hit him and threw him to the side and out of the path of the bolts.
When he looked back towards where the shockwave came from, he saw Argos had one of his palms extended.
“Thanks, Argos.”
“Don’t mention it.”
But then another lightning bolt shot from the ceiling and hit Argos in the head.
“Argos!” shouted Chase.
It was too late. The damage had been done. Smaller bolts of lightning sizzled all over Argos’ body before he collapsed to the ground unconscious.
Crap!
“This has gone on long enough, Zeus. We came here in peace, and you keep attacking us every time you disagree with what is being said.”
I’m afraid that’s how he deals with defiance , said Ares mentally. That’s how he always did.
I don’t care. I’m getting tired of this immature attitude. The fate of the universe hangs in the balance here.
“Zeus! Show yourself!”
“Find me if you can,” said Zeus’ voice.
Very well. If that’s what it takes, so be it.
Chase closed his eyes and expanded his consciousness around the temple. He identified every life-energy source around him. Ares, Argos and someone else. It had to be Zeus. Without hesitation, he teleported to where he had felt the energy and delivered a powerful punch.
At first it looked as if he had hit nothing but air. But then something happened. Zeus reappeared, his face deformed by pain. He took two steps back as blood dripped from his mouth.
“We don’t have time for your games!” shouted Chase. “The more we quibble and fight like children here, the more the Furies are taking a hold on this universe.”
Zeus wiped some of the blood off his chin with his fingers and looked at it. “You’ve drawn first blood, Fury. In doing so you’ve assured open war with Olympus!”
Zeus teleported back to his throne and hit a button on one of the armrests. An alarm sounded and soon a large number of Olympians came into the temple.
“Kill him!” he said, pointing an accusing finger at Chase. “Kill them all.”
The warriors converged around Chase, Ares and Argos’ fallen body.
Argos was just regaining consciousness and struggled to get back up. He saw the Olympians approaching and creating a threatening circle around them.
“What have I missed?” he asked.
“Not much. Zeus is not man enough to deal with a single Fury, so he called for backup.”
“I told you this wouldn’t end well,” said Ares. “I’m gonna try to calm the crowd down before more blood is spilled needlessly.”
“Listen to me, brothers!” he shouted. “Zeus is our commander-in-chief. He has led our people for countless generations, but the time has come to set aside our differences with other races and realize that we need to unite or be destroyed.”
“Don’t listen to that traitor son of mine. He’s been brainwashed by these Furies,” said Zeus. “Kill them before they infect more of us.”
The warriors continued to approach the trio.
“So much for diplomacy,” spat Argos.
Argos intensified his aura to the maximum. Chase hesitated, but perhaps a show of force was needed. Chase pushed his aura to nearly the maximum but didn’t enter Ultra Fury mode. Not yet.
He unleashed a massive roar, accompanied by a powerful shockwave that swept through the entire temple. It cracked the marble floor, shattered a few columns and sent the approaching warriors flying backwards like leaves caught in a storm. Most of them lost consciousness when they hit the walls and floor of the temple. The others looked at Chase with fear.
“ENOUGH!” shouted Chase, his voice echoing inside the temple. “We mean you no harm. We didn’t come here to start another war. We came to discuss a potential alliance!”
“Lies!” spat Zeus.
He’s starting to get on my nerves.
Chase, I can feel your anger. Don’t let it overwhelm you. My father’s not worth it , said Ares. We can always try to get the help of more Olympians, one way or another, without his consent.
Ares was right. Chase had never imagined Zeus to be such an arrogant, immature and blind leader. The head of such an advanced civilization as the Olympians, no less. Chase used to be arrogant himself, so he could have let that one characteristic slide, but the rest was too much.
Argos looked straight at Chase. “Give me the word and I’ll take out this fool .”
Chase shook his head. As tempting as it was, he wasn’t ready to assassinate the head of the Olympians. He had hoped for an alliance, but while that looked less likely with each passing minute, he still had questions that needed answering. He would not leave Olympus empty-handed.
“We’ll leave here without fuss if you answer a few questions,” said Chase.
“Ask your questions and disappear from my sight.”
“You can’t lie, though. Answer them truthfully and we’ll leave in peace.”
“How many times do I have to repeat myself? Ask your questions, Fury .”
“Why are you trying to kill your own son?”
“He’s already dead.”
“That’s not what I’m talking about and you know it.”
“He betrayed me. Because of his betrayal he got himself killed, and my daughter is now suffering inside a machine she had no business entering in the first place. I hold Ares responsible for that.”
Chase teleported in front of Zeus with a solemn look on his face.
“With your permission I’d like to show you something. It’s about your daughter, Aphroditis.”
Saroudis entered the emperor’s ready room aboard his flagship. It had been turned into a proper dining room. The table was nicely arranged, with two sets of plates and cutlery.
It made Saroudis a little uncomfortable.
“You shouldn’t have gone to all this trouble, Emperor; and, truth be told, I should have been the one inviting you. Your help has been invaluable.”
The emperor bowed. “No, Commodore, I’m more than happy to have you tonight as my guest. And it’s about time we had a one-on-one in a nicer setting than the last time we were in the same room. Don’t you think?”
Saroudis remembered it well. It was when Chase had brought him aboard the Destiny . Everyone on the bridge wanted a piece of the emperor back then, Saroudis included. He had been fuming with rage at the simple fact that he was standing in his presence.
“Yes, we’ve come a long way since then, haven’t we, Emperor?”
“Please, Commodore, drop the ‘Emperor.’ I would be honored if you’d address me by my first name.”
“I’m afraid I don’t know your first name.”
“It’s Altair.”
“That’s going to take some getting used to, Altair, but then please call me Adonis.”
“Please, Adonis, sit.” The emperor gestured towards the nearest chair at the dining table.
Saroudis didn’t know what to think of all this. The emperor was nothing like he remembered him, and he wondered if this wasn’t an impostor of sorts. Argos had replaced both Sarah and Admiral Thassos with clones before. It was a nice change of pace to actually have a civilized conversation with him, but something in Saroudis’ head told him not to trust the man. Not yet anyway.
“It must not be easy for you to be here, Adonis,” said the emperor.
“What do you mean?”
“You know what I mean. We’ve been deadly enemies for generations. Now we’re breaking bread and having dinner. Truth be told, I would be suspicious if I were in your shoes.”
“Since we’re being honest, the thought has crossed my mind, Emp—” Saroudis corrected himself. “Altair.”
The emperor smiled.
“I can’t blame you. We’ve done horrible things in the past. War is a terrible thing that changes people. I realize that now.”
Where is he going with this?
“But that part of our history is over. At least, I hope so,” said Saroudis, almost pleadingly.
“It is. There isn’t a day I don’t regret making that deal with the Zarlacks and Argos. We became nothing more than slaves, doing their bidding. During that time we killed so many of your people. Sometimes at night when sleep eludes me, I think of what would have happened if the Zarlacks had come to you instead, or to any other race. Most of my people would be dead right now. I don’t expect you to ever forgive us for what we’ve done, but I wanted to look you in the eye and apologize for that terrible error in judgment on my part.”
Saroudis thought his jaw would drop. But his instinct didn’t let go of the thought that this could all be a ruse, a long-term plan to have them lower their guard and embrace the Obsidians as true friends.
Yet, right this moment, he couldn’t detect any deception from the emperor. Of course, Saroudis had all the reasons in the world to doubt him. He also had good reasons to hate him on a personal level. This war had cost him the life of two children. His two sons, who were taken way before their time. There was no bigger tragedy for a parent than to outlive their own children.
“I . . . I don’t know what to say, Altair. I wasn’t expecting you to say these words.”
“Words are easy, Adonis. Actions, on the other hand, matter so much more. Which reminds me, I have to apologize again.”
Saroudis raised an eyebrow. “What about?”
“I’m not proud of the blackmail tactic I used to get access to your technology. Part of me wanted to give you whatever help you require, but the old me, the survivor in me, if you will . . . Well, let’s just say old habits die hard.”
“In that regard we’re not very different. I am also still suspicious. This teaming and true exchange we’re doing these days, it seems too good to be true. Not to mention the timing. The Earth Alliance has never been this weak before. If we don’t make more allies soon, the Furies will have no trouble wiping us out.”
“I agree, Adonis. That’s why I’m sorry for requiring something in exchange for our help in that dire moment. Please know that I would have given you our help anyhow, but I still fear for the safety of my people. And I’m not only talking about the Furies. Hopefully we can continue the work we’ve started and build a stronger, more unified Earth Alliance and rid ourselves of the Furies. But who knows what will come next?
“I’m weary and tired of war, Adonis. It’s all I’ve ever known, but I wonder if there is something better, or if it’s not simply our destiny, as conscious beings, to repeat the cycle of violence over and over again. In a way, I’m thankful for the situation we’re in, though, as it has made me think. Upon losing almost everything at the heel of Argos and the Zarlacks, it made me realize that power isn’t everything.”
Saroudis smiled. It looked as though the emperor had done some genuine thinking these past few months.
“I’ll drink to that,” said Saroudis, raising his glass.
The emperor raised his glass in turn.
After taking a sip of the delicious alcoholic beverage, Saroudis made an agreeable noise. “This drink is delicious. What is it?”
“It’s made from a fermented flower from my home world. It’s quite rare and takes years to achieve the right maturity and taste. I have a few bottles on board. I’ll be more than happy to give you some.”
“That’s very generous of you. I have a question, though. You mentioned something about protecting your people after the Fury War. I would think if we survive this war, we’ll continue to be allies.”
“Oh, believe me, Adonis, if I’m still alive and have anything to say about it, we’ll stay allies until the end of time. But, as I said before, I wonder if it’s not our fate to always be in conflict with one another.”
“I don’t follow.”
“Look at history, in any world. Conflict seems to always be present. Like a curse linked to a civilization’s development cycle. War pushes men and women to their last limits, and most civilizations are forced to evolve technologically. And during these times, whatever spiritual development we achieve in peacetime seems to be lost or, at the very least, to regress.”
The emperor was making a good point, even though Saroudis had a less pessimistic outlook on things.
“I think a civilization can still evolve in peacetime. Before our own war with you, we had no trouble evolving along the technology path. Though I’ll concede that once the war started, spiritual evolution had to be placed on the back burner. But, at the end of the day, I don’t think they’re mutually exclusive.”
“And yet in times of war, we do anything we have to in order to weather the storm, in order to survive. Answer me this, Adonis. How much of the technology you’re now so generously sharing with us has been created in the last few months, in that period where your survival was paramount?”
And then it hit Saroudis. All of their best upgrades, all of their advanced weaponry, the creation of the StarFuries as well as the stronger shields; all of these had been invented because their very lives, their very survival, was on the line.
Saroudis looked down. “Almost all of it,” he said absently, still digesting the revelation. “I think I understand what you mean.”
Sarah brought about the Hope to open fire on the Zarlack destroyer.
“Lock onto that destroyer and fire our main guns,” she ordered.
“It’s accelerating at maximum sub-light thrust, which means we only have time for one shot. It’s not gonna be enough to bring their shields down unless we use the maximum firing mode, but that will leave us dead in the water for sixty seconds.”
Sarah knew all that, and time was of the essence. If they fired the super-charged shot of their Heracles cannon, they would end up too exposed.
“I can’t take that chance, Daniel. Fire the main weapons at nominal charge as well as all the torpedoes currently loaded in their tubes. Perhaps it will get the Zarlacks to change course.”
“Firing now, Captain.”
The Hope fired its devastating, high-powered plasma beam at the Zarlack destroyer just within firing range. It drained their shields more than Daniel thought it would and brought them down to thirty percent. The torpedoes were much slower, even if their range was better. It would take thirty seconds for them to reach their target.
“Something’s happening,” said Daniel.
“What is it?”
“They’re deploying fighters, vectoring towards our torpedoes.”
“They’re sacrificing them to make sure they don’t get destroyed.”
“That would be my guess as well, Sarah.”
Sarah swore.
She wanted nothing more than to follow them and kill the Fury that almost cost Chase’s life. She couldn’t risk the ship or their lives. But what if the Furies wanted to broker an alliance with the Asgardians too? Or, worse, decimate them?
Yet, that didn’t make sense. They’d only sent one ship. So it meant they were after something specific. Whatever it was, it must have been important if they sent Miseo to supervise this mission.
The Zarlack destroyer was hit by more yellow energy but it didn’t bring their shields down. The destroyer positioned itself to cover its fighters from the incoming freezing weapon.
“Torpedoes locking on targets,” said Daniel.
The fighters managed to shoot down half the torpedoes while others exploded against remaining fighters. Some took fire from the unknown energy beam and were enclosed in the resin-like material, just like Chris’ StarFury.
Only a single torpedo found its intended target and brought the Zarlack ship’s shields down another seven percent.
“They’re out of range now,” said Daniel.
“Dammit,” exclaimed Sarah.
Should Sarah have fired the supercharged primary weapon? No need to blame herself now. It was done and she couldn’t change the past.
“For what’s it worth,” said Daniel, “I’m glad you haven’t tried firing the main guns at supercharge power, Captain. Sixty seconds is a long time to be defenseless when there’s an unknown enemy out there that can turn us into resin statues for all eternity.”
Daniel’s words eased her conscience somewhat, but she still worried that what the Furies were after could be very important. They might have missed their window of opportunity for getting their hands on it.
She opened a channel to engineering.
“Yanis, please tell me— ”
He cut her short. “I’ve got sensor data of the impact of the unknown weapon on the Zarlack shields. We’re already working on analyzing the data to see if we can replicate their tech and modify the Hope ’s shields to also be impervious to that weapon, Captain.”
Of course he was. Yanis was always one step ahead of his captain’s demands. He knew what was at stake better than anyone and, since his sister had passed, he had redoubled his efforts to find new technologies to give the Alliance an advantage in this war. Sarah knew that deep down he was doing that to avenge her death. She could understand that.
“Thanks, Yanis. Keep us posted of your progress.”
“Will do. Yanis out.”
13
Z eus frowned his silvery eyebrows when Chase reached towards his face. He instinctively pulled away.
“I’m not gonna hurt you, Zeus, I give you my word. But for me to show you my memories, I need physical contact.”
Chase saw he was considering it.
“Very well, but not here,” said Zeus after a moment. “Follow me.”
Chase followed Zeus out of the main temple’s chambers into a corridor that lead to another smaller room. It was as luxurious as the rest of the temple. Chase recognized a statue in one of the corners of the room. It was Aphroditis. It made Chase’s heart sting.
“You can show me now,” said Zeus.
Chase put two fingers on Zeus’ forehead. Zeus closed his eyes. Chase sent him as many relevant memories as he had of Aphroditis. Her plea to have him help Earth, her willingness to enter the machine that brought back the Furies from their eternal prison. Even her last vision when she made him swear he wouldn’t attempt to get her out of the machine.
When Zeus’ eyes opened, they were watery.
Chase’s voice was warm but determined. “I take full responsibility for my mistakes, and I’m so sorry about the torment your daughter is suffering because of me. I can’t change that, but I promise to try to get her out of there. But we need to defeat the Furies. I have given her my word, and I intend to keep that promise.”
“And you think if we ally ourselves with you, we can destroy the Furies once and for all?”
Chase nodded. “Yes. I’m sure you have a lot of technology that could help us as well.”
“Our technology is advanced, but it is also old, Fury.”
Chase cringed at Zeus calling him Fury. While he knew very well that he was one, he shared very little with their kind. It was derogatory, but for the sake of diplomacy, Chase decided to ignore it.
“Aren’t you the ones who designed the device?”
“It was a team effort, between many races, some of which are now extinct. The Asgar—” Zeus paused. “The Asgardians also participated. In fact, it was one of their most progressive inventors that helped design the final parts to make the machine work as intended, against his government’s wishes, I might add.”
“The Asgardians didn’t want the machine to work?”
“Not exactly. They wanted the machine to destroy the parallel universe to which the machine would send the Furies. I didn’t want that to happen.”
“I can understand that. Who knows how many more civilizations you could have destroyed in the process?”
“You give me too much credit, Fury. My reasons were much more selfish. I simply didn’t want all Furies to die.”
“That’s still a noble sentiment.”
Zeus shook his head. “You don’t understand.”
“Then explain it to me.”
“Nobody knows this, and I’m not sure anyone should.”
“And yet it seems to be eating at you. Perhaps if you unburdened yourself you’d feel better.”
Zeus turned his back on Chase for a moment and stayed silent. Chase didn’t know what to do. He had finally managed to make Zeus talk. His initial view of Zeus as a childish, immature ruler was slowly fading away. There seemed to be a heavy weight on the Olympian’s shoulders. Chase didn’t know what it was, but he recognized the pain and strain. Whatever secret Zeus was keeping to himself it was eating at him.
“If it makes any difference, I can promise not to share what you tell me with anyone.”
Zeus turned around. A tear had traveled down his face. “I . . . I loved a Fury female. In fact, my love affair with Arakan’s wife is the reason the first Fury War escalated as it did.”
Chase’s jaw dropped. “I’m having difficulty believing that your love for a Fury woman made things the way they are now.”
“And yet we had managed to negotiate a cease-fire. I had been invited personally to meet with Arakan on a neutral world. The Furies’ thirst for power was already very strong, but our alliance was stronger in numbers, even if the Fury technology was superior to our own. When they had lost more than half their fleet in less than a year and when most of our engagements resulted in their defeat, they were open to a peaceful, if only temporary, resolution.
“That’s when I met her. She took my breath away. I had no idea she was the supreme commander’s wife. All I saw was her incredible beauty and a soul burning with passion and fire. Before I realized what I had done, she was pregnant with my child.”
Chase swallowed, trying to digest the enormity of Zeus’ confession.
“I knew very well that the Furies were using the cease-fire just to buy time to rebuild their fleet. They are a race bred for war. They only thrive through conflict and, no matter how much they have tried in the past, they can’t contain the eternal rage that consumes their souls. It’s in their blood, the need to fight, the need to kill.”
That resonated heavily with Chase. When he first discovered his powers, he was scared of how much hatred was burning inside his soul. Was that due to his blood heritage? Would this always be the case, no matter how far he had come? He could control this rage now, use its destructive power to do good. But, ultimately, could that rage one day overcome his control and, if so, could he become the very evil he was trying to stop?
The thought sent a cascade of shivers down his spine.
“I . . . I think I know what you’re saying. I have felt this anger myself. First-hand. Your daughter Aphroditis and your son Ares helped me gain control of this power and use it in a good way. Perhaps if I can, other Furies can too.”
“I honestly don’t care if Furies can become better. Back then I just didn’t want to kill the woman I still love to this day, nor her daughter. Since I failed in rescuing her, our daughter is all I have left of her.”
“I don’t follow?”
“When Arakan learned of his wife’s affair with me years later, he had her tortured and killed. He sent her back to me one piece at a time. That’s when the cease-fire faltered. It sent me into a mad quest for revenge, one that I fear I’m not yet fully done with.”
More tears appeared on Zeus’ face.
“Is that why you reacted the way you did when we arrived?”
“Understand something, Chase. Any Fury reminds me of what I have lost, as well as what my actions brought this universe to. When the Asgardians told me they had found a way to send them into an alternate dimension and then destroy that dimension, I considered it. I liked the idea of hiding my failure under a rug along the way. But I was not ready to get rid of the one thing I had left from Zalara.”
“Zalara. That would be Arakan’s . . .” Chase didn’t have the heart to add the word wife at the end of his sentence.
“Yes. She may have been his wife, but that didn’t mean she wasn’t also everything to me. You see, I’ve had many lovers and many children with both mortal and immortal beings. I’ve never really been a one-woman guy. But Zalara, she was different. She was the one. She understood me like no one else ever had. When I lost her, I lost the better part of my own soul.”
Chase felt deeply saddened for Zeus. He had this love for Sarah. He could feel it in every molecule of his body. She was the one. And when he had thought he had lost her, by his own hand at that, it had consumed him. Just as Zeus was being consumed by his own loss, still suffering the consequences ten thousand years later.
Was that what Chase had to look forward to? After all, Sarah was a mortal. Both of them risked their lives on a daily basis. And even if they managed to defeat the Furies permanently, one day she would simply die. Chase, on the other hand, unless he was mortally wounded, would probably live forever.
Chase put his hand on Zeus’ shoulder. “I’m sorry for your pain.”
“I don’t need your pity, Chase. No matter what happens now, the damage is done. I would give anything to have her in my arms once more. If only Ares— ”
But then Zeus stopped mid-sentence.
“What? What did Ares do?”
“I had tasked him to infiltrate the Fury home world and get Zalara out of there and bring her back to me on Olympus before Oryn was born.”
“He never told me that.”
“I erased a good portion of my son’s memories. After he failed his mission.”
“Is that the real reason behind his banishment?”
Zeus nodded.
“Are you responsible for his current state? He’s no longer able to control his powers and he loses energy at an alarming rate. Me and my son have been boosting his levels, but over time we won’t be able to keep up with his energy requirements.”
“Yes. I’ve never forgiven my son for failing his mission. Not only did he fail, but he sent someone else in his stead. So when I felt his presence in my temple not long ago, it awoke all that pain inside me that I thought was long gone.”
“Had you told him who Zalara was?”
“No.”
“Then, I’m sorry, but while you can blame him for failing his objective, you can’t blame him for not knowing what was at stake. If he had known how important the mission was for you, he would not have sent someone else to do the job.”
Zeus gave a deep frown. Chase thought he would get mad again, but soon the sorrow returned to Zeus’ face.
“Perhaps.”
“I don’t mean any disrespect,” said Chase, “but I think you’ve been holding grudges and suffering from this for far too long. It has clouded your judgment. This anger, this rage you seem to harbor with the entire outside world . . . You must know by now that most of it is actually directed towards yourself.”
Chase knew this was a risky proposition. But having come this far and finally opening a dialogue, he felt it was necessary for Zeus to break the abscess that was paralyzing his thoughts and clouding his judgment. Perhaps his unwillingness to deal with his own demons was why he didn’t want to hear of an alliance.
Chase understood that Zeus didn’t want the rest of the world to know about his private business. In fact, he was surprised that Zeus had told him any of it. Perhaps seeing Aphroditis suffer horribly had brought enough of his own pain and memories to the surface for him to start dealing with it. Chase could only hope this would turn in their favor.
As much as Chase could empathize with Zeus’ pain, the fact remained that Zeus was responsible for most of what had unfolded up until now. He would not tell him directly, as he feared that would send Zeus into another fit of rage, but they needed to find a way to fix this mess.
“Tell me more about the broken alliance back then.”
“I managed to convince Kvasir, the Asgardians’ craziest but quite ingenious inventor, to modify the machine to make sure that the dimension in which the Furies were sent didn’t collapse on its own. Instead, they were mostly trapped in time. There was a side effect, though. Even though time seemed to advance much more slowly in the other dimension, the Furies were trapped inside their own minds and felt the passing of the centuries just the same.”
“And where can we find this Kvasir now?”
“He was banished from the Asgardian home world to a colony not very far from the center of this galaxy.”
“Are Asgardians immortal too?”
“Yes.”
“How long has he been there?”
“Since the last Fury War.”
“Can’t he simply escape, if he is such a talented inventor?”
“The Asgardians have protected the area where his planetoid prison is located with a terrible weapon. Any vessel that approaches the area is automatically shot upon and frozen in space and time for all eternity.”
“Frozen?”
“The weapon uses a frequency that stops all atomic movement. It’s a kind of absolute-zero cannon.”
“And the Asgardians have this technology?”
“They do, but they decided long ago not to use it, except to keep Kvasir from escaping his banishment.”
“Why? They could have annihilated the Furies with that weapon, couldn’t they?”
“Maybe. The power requirements are off the scale, though, and the technology had some issues. Many vessels equipped with the portable version of the cannon were lost. After that the Asgardians discontinued its use.”
“Can I have the coordinates to Kvasir’s planetoid, please?”
Zeus nodded.
“Can you please also stop what you’re doing to Ares? I’m sure if you told him the truth, as you have told me, he would understand better why you hate him. You two could mend fences.”
“No. You’ve promised to keep your word.”
“And I will keep my promise. Now, can we discuss an alliance?”
“You have to understand something, Chase. I’m still unwilling to kill my daughter.”
“What if we got her for you? Would you then join our Alliance and destroy the Furies once and for all?”
“Keep talking.”
“I’m sure I can get to her. Perhaps she will be easily convinced. Does she know she’s your daughter?”
“I don’t know. Probably not.”
“Are you giving me permission to divulge only that part of the story to her? Perhaps if she knew Arakan killed her mother because of her love for you, she might become an ally.”
Zeus pondered Chase’s words. “Very well. We have a deal.”
Ryonna stood on top of Argos’ Zarlack commander, one foot on his ribcage, while her gun was squarely pointed at his head, her hand slightly trembling. Blood from her many injuries spilled on the floor as though from a broken faucet.
“Next time your superior gives you an order via an encrypted, genuine holo-message, you’d better follow it,” she barked.
What the guard she had interrogated earlier had failed to mention was that one of the commander’s guards was a Fury. It took Ryonna and the soldiers their coordinated effort to bring him down. At great sacrifice. More than seven soldiers had lost their lives and the battle bots had been damaged beyond repair.
Ryonna stood with a murderous look burning in her eyes. She had to force herself not to blow a fist-sized blaster hole between the Zarlack commander’s eyes.
She switched to lasso mode and paralyzed him. She then went with him to the brig, where she recovered Tanarok and swapped him for the commander.
“What are you doing? You can’t leave me in here!”
“You should have thought about that before ordering your men to fire at us.”
“I couldn’t take the chance that you might have doctored that holo-transmission.”
“Wasn’t it encrypted? With a cypher only you and your men are privy to?”
“It was but— ”
“Then there’s no but. You decided to be paranoid on your own, and you cost my teammates their lives. Just count your blessings that I’m in a hurry and can’t spare the time to properly repay you for your overzealous attitude. So long, Commander.”
Ryonna could still hear the Zarlack shouting when she left the brig with Tanarok.
“What will happen to the commander?” Tanarok asked.
“He’s lucky I don’t have time to punish him. You don’t want to try my patience either.”
“Look, I don’t know who you are or what you want— ”
“Let me stop you right here, Tanarok. Argos told me to come and pick you up. He needs your help to stop a Fury from aging too fast.”
“I don’t know anything about Fury physiology. I don’t understand why Argos thinks I can be of any help.”
Ryonna didn’t like the sound of that. But this had been a trying day. She was not in the mood to babysit or reassure this lizard that Argos knew what he was doing. And he’d better know, or there would be hell to pay.
“Look, you’re some sort of biologist, right?”
“Yes, but— ”
“Then Argos needs you to work with him on a project. That’s all you need to trouble yourself with at this point. I don’t want to hear another peep out of you besides answering my questions. Is that clear?”
The Zarlack nodded.
“Now, where might we find Argos’ Kyrian snake clone?”
“In his ready room. But I’m not allowed there.”
“I’m granting you permission. Now lead the way, scales.”
Spiros and Cedric arrived at the nearest Alliance’s hospital. It wasn’t the kind of place they wanted to work in or stay at for too long, but they had no choice. Spiros had requisitioned a few servers from the facility and was restoring Gaia’s higher neuronal functions into them.
He hoped he would be on time to change the next cypher. The last thing they needed was Gaia 2 disabling the shields. Gaia had left her comms open when she fought her beta version, and Spiros had heard what she had in store for Earth.
“Do you think we’ll be on time?” asked Cedric nervously.
“We have to be. I’m hoping the battle bought us some time.”
“Why are you saying this?”
“Because the cypher’s estimated lifetime expired three minutes ago and I’m only at seventy-two percent of the restore procedure.”
Cedric buried his head in his hands. “We’re fucked.”
“None of that. We can’t sink into despair, not now. Not ever, actually. Because even if we survive this crisis, do I have to remind you that there is an entire planet of crazed Furies ready to blow us to kingdom come the first chance they get?”
“I wish I had packed weed.”
Spiros smiled from ear to ear.
“What?”
“This is a hospital, Cedric. Perhaps you should ask a nurse to provide you with medicinal marijuana?”
“Right! You sure you don’t mind?”
“No, just . . . just go. I don’t need your help restoring Gaia’s neuronal net anyway.”
Cedric was gone before Spiros could say anything else. He could use the time alone. He had to start injecting the necessary code into Gaia’s restored matrix for his plan to work. He would manage that better if he wasn’t interrupted every five minutes.
He could also use a jay, but not before he was done with the cypher and the code injection. He really hoped that Gaia’s sacrifice had bought them enough time to do the necessary work from here. Gaia had sent a final message before self-destructing, informing him that she was sending more battle bots to this location so he could reprogram them with her latest higher functions. They had decided that the safest way to create new avatars for her was manually, from an encrypted version of her latest code. She had added many layers of firewall and a new rotating cypher algorithm based on a 65536 bits root random value Spiros had chosen, so Gaia 2 could not guess. Cracking it would take some time, thanks to the cypher-cycling function.
The bots should arrive soon. And if they didn’t, then it meant something went terribly wrong. It didn’t help that her very last words were interrupted mid-sentence. “I lo—” was all he received. Still, he didn’t need the rest of the characters to decipher that one.
A trio of beeps snapped Spiros out of his train of thought. The restore procedure was complete. He now had to network with many other computers throughout the world to decompress the data. The entire server farm of this hospital would require hours at this task and they couldn’t afford to wait that long.
Cedric could probably have helped with that task as he was more proficient with Earth’s IT systems. Interfacing and hacking them was not a very difficult task for Spiros. But he would achieve faster results if he used his own neuronal implants.
He connected the data cable to his neck port and went to connect the other end to the data port of the Alliance’s console. He stopped and hesitated for a moment.
What if Gaia 2 has already hacked the Alliance systems?
If so, he could give her a unique and dangerous opportunity to hack his own brain augments. His memories were stored in his biological brain so there was little risk of her acquiring them. But could he take the chance?
He received a wireless transmission on his neuronal interface. The empty battle bots were ten minutes out. He needed to be done with both the decompression and code injection by then, and there was no way he would achieve that with a slow holo-interface. He needed his mental augments, and probably would have to overclock them too, but this time within reasonable limits. He could not afford an overload the likes of which he had suffered back on Damocles-3 Station.
Spiros took a deep breath and plugged the other end of the cable into the data port.
A quick message appeared in front of his eyes before he felt a powerful jolt of electricity burst through his head.
The message had read: “There you are!”
14
S arah was pacing nervously in Chase’s ready room, trying to think of a way to go in pursuit of the Zarlack ship. If Miseo was on board, this place had to be important. They couldn’t let the Furies get to the Asgardians first. It could have catastrophic repercussions.
Chris entered the room. “Is everything okay?”
“I needed time to think. We have to find a way to go after that ship.”
“It’s out of our hands right now. Unless we’re ready to be transformed into a lifeless ship for all eternity.”
“I know, son, I know.”
“I have faith in Yanis. From what Dad told me, he always comes through for us. We just need to give him more time.”
Time. That was the one commodity they didn’t have. But Chris was right. Trying to pursue that ship without some sort of protection wasn’t a viable option. Unless . . .
Sarah’s face lit up.
“What did you just think of?” said Chris.
“We have a pretty good idea of the distance and vector from which the weapon was firing, right?”
“We do now. And if you’re thinking of jumping past that point with the ship, we can’t be sure that the weapon won’t still fire at us. And this could be just one of the weapons defending this system. It’s too big a risk, I’m afraid.”
“We can reduce the risk, Chris, don’t you see?”
“How?”
“We use a StarFury. We jump far ahead towards the vector the Zarlacks took, and telemetry will tell us soon enough if it gets fired upon.”
“Huh. This could work.”
“Let’s do it.”
On the bridge they explained their idea to Daniel.
“Sounds good. We still have more than enough StarFuries in the launch bays to make multiple tests,” said Daniel.
“The fewer ships we lose the better, but we have to go after that ship. Whatever it came to get, we can’t allow it to leave this place with it.”
“Agreed,” answered Daniel.
“I’m already remote-flying a StarFury. Entering coordinates for the jump now.”
Sarah held her breath. A few seconds later they received telemetry.
“On screen.”
The StarFury had jumped a few thousand klicks beyond the theoretical range of the weapon. For now it wasn’t under fire, and it had already picked up the Zarlack ship on long-range sensors.
“What’s this?” Sarah pointed at the radar image.
“Looks like a small planetoid. The Zarlacks are attacking it, but automated defenses are giving it a run for its money,” answered Daniel.
“We have to jump in there too,” said Sarah. “If we can either chase away the Zarlacks or destroy them altogether, whoever is on that planetoid might actually be thankful. Let’s hope we’re right and some Asgardian is in need of our help.”
“I’m already bringing my StarFury into an intercept course.”
“Chris, you’re going to lose that ship for nothing,” interjected Sarah.
“Yes, but if I can overload its power source and crash it against their shields, it will slow them down. I don’t think the planetoid’s defenses will hold for much longer.”
“I can confirm that. They’ll be overrun in less than a minute,” said Daniel.
“Very well, Chris, make it so. Daniel, plot a course and jump the Hope right away. The second we exit hyperspace, raise shields and engage the enemy with everything we’ve got.”
Daniel smiled at her. “Aye aye, Captain!”
He entered the coordinates and the Hope micro-jumped into hyperspace.
Saroudis was getting full. Dinner had been long and with many courses, most of them delicious, though he had no idea what he ate most of the time.
At first he wanted to ask the emperor about the food, but he decided that the new trust and understanding they seemed to have brokered here today was worth it, even if it meant he ate insects or worse. The food had been flavorful and the dessert was just arriving.
“You really shouldn’t have gone to all this trouble, Altair.”
“It’s not every day I have such an honored guest, Adonis. And how often can two leaders actually sit and share a meal, in hope of solidifying a friendship that will, I hope, last for thousands of years to come?”
Hearing the emperor speak of long-lasting peace still baffled Saroudis. But he could not sense any deception in the emperor’s intentions and he was usually a good judge of character. However, he remembered how blind he had been to the fact that Admiral Thassos had been a clone and puppet doing Argos’ bidding.
It was too soon to openly trust the Obsidian Empire, but Saroudis was more than willing to give them the benefit of the doubt and, in time, would be proud to call them friends, when that trust had been earned.
“All too true, Altair. And I’m really grateful we have this opportunity. Please don’t get me wrong, but I have to admit I’m surprised to hear you talk of peace so vehemently. No offense.”
“None taken. When I was rotting in one of your cells on Earth, I had plenty of time to reflect on the many, many mistakes I have made during my rule. I want to leave a legacy for my people, not regrets, death and ashes. And we stand a better chance of achieving that legacy if we unite than by staying divided. Wouldn’t you agree?”
“You’re preaching to the choir.”
“I’m not familiar with this expression,” said the emperor, raising an eyebrow, lifting some of his facial tattoos along the way.
“It’s an Earth expression. It means I couldn’t agree more.”
“I see. I’m glad to hear it. Ah, dessert. This is my favorite part of the meal.”
“Isn’t it always? I hope I have room for it, though. While the food was delicious—and please congratulate the chef for me—I do hope I still have room for dessert.”
“When you taste it I’m sure you will. It’s my favorite.”
An Obsidian soldier-turned-waiter for the occasion brought two bowls of ice cream.
“The aroma of this ice cream derives from the sap of a tree in my home world. Every time I have this it reminds me of a simpler time when I was a kid, with no worries, no fears. Isn’t it paradoxical that when we are kids all we want to do is grow up? Be like our parents or like our older siblings? But when we get there, life has a way of throwing problems at us faster than we can deal with them. I would give anything for the bliss of being a young boy running in the purple grassfields of my home world, with not a care in the world. I would eat when food was ready, sleep when it was time; but when my head hit the pillow, sleep would embrace me like a warm blanket, and the next day would be filled with the discovery of another set of worry-free wonders.”
Saroudis knew exactly what the emperor meant. He had thought about this many times. To this day he would be willing to trade it all and go back to that blissful time. To be a young child again, discovering the world at every turn with bewildered eyes, never worrying about tomorrow.
“I’m looking forward to trying this,” said Saroudis before taking a spoonful of the melting dessert.
The flavor was strong and reminded Saroudis of an Alpha Prime syrup his grandmother used to make. It brought tears to his eyes.
“Is everything alright, Adonis?” asked the emperor.
“I . . . I know this taste. We have something very similar in our world. It just brought back memories of my childhood.”
But then it brought another set of memories, much less pleasant. A few days before his mother died, she had visited them in their lake house, and had brought the syrup with her. It was the last time he had the beverage and the last time his sons had it too. They had finished the bottle in less than an hour and Saroudis had been angry at them for it.
He couldn’t control the flow of overwhelming emotions. His eyes watered and burned. He missed his sons terribly. With everything that had happened lately, he hadn’t had time to properly grieve after the news of their passing. Even if Saroudis had prepared himself for the worst when they had jumped away from Star Alliance space and arrived in Earth space, he had still harbored the faint hope that one day he might see them again. His wife and daughter had survived, but he had lost both his boys. And the taste in his mouth sent him back to that time when they were just young devils playing tricks on one another and everyone around them.
The emperor gestured the waiter to leave the ready room. He rose and walked towards Saroudis, then knelt before him and talked in a soft voice.
“I didn’t mean to bring back sad memories. I’m sorry, Adonis.”
“It’s . . .” But Saroudis was sobbing. “My sons . . . I . . . it reminded me of my sons.”
The look in the emperor’s eyes told Saroudis that he understood. “They died in the attack on your planet, didn’t they?”
Saroudis simply couldn’t find the strength to answer, trapped in a moment of intense sadness the likes of which he hadn’t experienced in years. Since the passing of his own father, in fact. So he nodded instead, trying futilely to wipe away tears, but they were instantly replaced by fresh ones.
The emperor took a dagger from one of his heels and it startled Saroudis.
What is he doing?
His heart rate jumped. But he was afraid for no reason. The emperor turned the blade and presented the handle to Saroudis.
“This blade has been in my family for countless generations. It’s my most prized possession. I have killed many warriors with it in battle. But I realize now that some of my actions have killed many, many innocent people, like your sons.”
There was deep sadness in the emperor’s eyes.
“Their blood and the blood of many is on my hands. No matter how much I want to atone for my actions, I can never be forgiven, and I don’t even seek your forgiveness.”
The emperor’s confession resulted in a shot of adrenaline through Saroudis. What was happening? Saroudis wiped his eyes. “Where are you going with this, Emperor?”
Saroudis harbored hatred for the empire for the death of many friends and family members. He hated war in general. But he had always been a soldier. That’s what it meant to fight for one’s world. No one man was responsible. Or was he?
“Take this blade, and you have my permission to avenge your boys with it.” He turned towards a holo-recording device embedded on the wall. “I am exercising the ancestral ritual of the father’s debt. This man is not to be prosecuted for his actions. I give my life to him of my own free will and, to respect my honor, I ask that my second-in-command keep this Alliance of ours strong. Not only today but tomorrow, and for as long as possible.”
The emperor brought the handle of the dagger closer to Saroudis.
Saroudis didn’t know why, but he took the blade and looked at it. He saw his sad reflection shimmer on the surface of the blade, his eyes red.
Could he really take the emperor’s life to avenge his sons? Especially when the man in front of him was willingly asking him to? For a brief instant he considered it, but then shame quickly replaced that fleeting moment of weakness.
“I can’t kill you, Emperor. You didn’t kill my sons. War did.”
“But it was my decision to ally my forces with Argos that escalated that war towards the brutal conflict that ripped the lives from billions of your people.”
“Nevertheless,” said Saroudis, taking a deep breath, “we must not let the horrors of the past define who we become. Revenge would not bring my sons back. But this newly found friendship, one that has the potential to echo positively throughout the ages, this matters. It gives meaning to all the deaths and sacrifices, somehow. So I thank you for your gesture, Altair and, as far as my sons are concerned, you have my forgiveness.”
Something happened inside Saroudis. Truth be told, he was mad at Argos more than the emperor. Ever since Chase had accepted his brother’s help, Saroudis had daydreamed of going to his quarters at night and killing the Fury. But he knew better. An eye for an eye was not the way to make this world better. And so some of that hatred he bore towards Argos had also vanished with the emperor’s apology and willingness to sacrifice himself in order to wash his sins away.
“I don’t deserve your kindness, Adonis. You are a great man. Better than I ever will be, in fact. I would like you to keep the dagger, though, as a symbol of our new friendship.”
“I can’t accept it. It’s a family heirloom. You should keep this to remind you of your father.”
“I insist, Adonis,” said the emperor. “I would be deeply honored if you accepted it.”
Saroudis took the dagger. It was a beautifully crafted, well-balanced dagger. The onyx handle was masterfully carved with a dragon with a fiery mane.
“Very well, in that case it is my honor to accept your gift in the spirit in which it is given. Thank you, Altair. May this friendship help both our people through the current shroud of darkness and into the light.”
The emperor smiled, his eyes filling with gratitude. “To quote a wise man I am now proud to call my friend: may it echo through the ages.”
“I’m sorry for blowing up many parts of your temple,” said Chase.
“This materialistic damage can easily be mended, unlike the pain that burns inside my heart. Please try to get my daughter back to me, Chase, and I’ll comply with your terms for the alliance.”
While it hinged on convincing a Fury to come to her Olympian father—a task Chase knew would not be easy—at least there was hope now.
“I still have a few things I’d like to discuss with you.”
“I’m listening,” said Zeus in a softer tone.
“Have you heard of the spirit ships?”
“What is it to you?”
“I’ve learned they could be invaluable in our fight against the Furies.”
“Only if you have enough Furies to pilot them. I’m unaware of any other race being able to use their formidable power efficiently.”
“Were they used in the last Fury War?”
Zeus nodded.
“So there were Furies fighting against their own people back then?”
“Like your father.”
Chase felt as if one of Zeus’ lightning bolts had hit him straight in the heart.
“My father?” he said, his voice trembling.
“Yes, the most courageous warrior I’ve ever known.”
“Can you tell me more about him?”
“Later. First bring my daughter. And keep your promise, Chase. Whatever welcome I gave you today will be nothing compared to my wrath if you speak any of what was discussed between us today to anyone.”
“Not even Ares?”
Zeus’ gaze turned icy cold. “No one.”
“Understood. But can you please stop what you’re doing to him? I need his help.”
“Consider it done. By the time you leave this planet he won’t feel his energy sucked away anymore.”
Chase hadn’t expected things to turn out so well. From the way it had all started, it could have turned a hell of a lot worse. But he felt compelled to ask for one more favor.
“One last thing and I’ll leave you be,” said Chase.
“Haven’t I answered enough questions already?”
“You have, and I’m grateful you did. But if we’re to cement an alliance in the future, I would like to know you’re serious about it.”
“Didn’t I just give you my word that if you succeed and bring Oryn back to me, you’ll get everything you want? What more do you want from me?”
“A gesture of good will. An advance, if you will.”
“I don’t follow.”
“Athena, Apollo and others have already been considering this alliance for a while, but they’re afraid of what it could mean if they defied you.”
“And they are wise to be so.”
“Yes, I get that. But could you please allow them to join our forces now with a few ships? It would go a long way, and I might need their help to complete the mission you’ve tasked me with. It will not be a walk in the park to go into Fury space to do as you ask, and you know it. I could use the firepower.”
“You also want to get your hands on our technology.”
“Well, we already have Apollo’s help, but I won’t lie to you. If we could openly appear with Olympian warships during our next engagements, it would send a powerful message of unity. And even if the cementing of this alliance is contingent on the success of the mission you’ve given me, this would help achieve that goal and perhaps put some much-needed fear into the heart of our common enemy.”
Zeus’s brows furrowed and Chase braced himself for the worst. Perhaps he had been too greedy.
“There is wisdom in your words, Chase. Your father would have been proud. Very well, you can enlist the help of any Olympian that is willing to follow you, but under no circumstances must they know of your mission, or that Oryn is my daughter. I will make that announcement myself when the time comes. If Athena is willing to come with you, she can take ten ships with her.”
That was more than Chase could have hoped for. Even one Olympian ship would have been wonderful to have by their side.
“Thank you, Zeus.”
“Don’t thank me just yet. Make sure you bring back my daughter.”
“You have my word. I’ll do everything in my power to do so.”
“Then you may leave. May fortune smile upon your endeavors.”
Chase didn’t know how to answer that, so he bowed as politely as he could and left the private room. In the corridor that led back to the center of the temple, Chase heard explosions that shook the entire temple.
What now?!
When he arrived running into the main chamber of Zeus’ temple, Ares was standing over Argos, whose entire body was shaking. He was having a seizure.
Chase ran to his side. “What the hell happened?”
“I don’t know. He started babbling incoherently, barking at me and everyone around here. He almost killed three Olympians by randomly shooting fireballs and then he collapsed. He acted as if he was in the middle of a battle.”
Chase saw an Olympian nearby with his arm badly burned. He fired a bright white healing fireball at the man.
“Sorry about that,” said Chase to the man before returning his attention back to Ares.
“I’ll take care of him. You have to get to Athena. Zeus just agreed to give us ten warships and let any Olympian that wants to join us do so freely without fear of incurring Zeus’ wrath.”
Ares shook his head in disbelief. “Mind telling me how you managed such a miracle?”
“Nope, that’s the one thing I can’t do. Now go!”
Chase applied his hands to his brother and tried to heal him but could not detect any damage.
Crap!
He grabbed Argos in his arms and ran back towards the shuttle. He opened a channel to the Euphoreon . “Have a medical team standing by in cargo bay three, stat!”
15
C edric was horrified when he entered the room and saw Spiros collapsed on the ground. Adrenaline kicked in and the bliss of his current high promptly vanished.
A spark shot from the back of Spiros’ neck.
“Fuck!” Cedric exclaimed.
He grabbed the data cable and ripped it from the data port at the base of the back of Spiros’ neck. Blood ran from his nose and eyes. Not a good sign, Cedric decided.
He slapped himself on the cheek.
“Nope, not hallucinating,” he said to himself. “PLEASE SOMEONE, HELP!” he shouted as loudly as he could.
“Don’t you die on me, Spiros. I can’t be left alone. Gaia 2 will have my ass for breakfast if you’re not here to stop her.”
Spiros was out cold. Cedric checked his pulse. It was faint but it was there. But he would need to be put into a regen tank right away. Cedric didn’t wait. He grabbed Spiros and tried his best to drag him outside, luckily two nurses arrived and took over and put Spiros on a hovering gurney. He was about to follow them when an ominous bleep escaped from the holo-console where Spiros had been working.
“Take good care of him. He needs to be put in a regen tank right away! I’ll come to check on him soon,” he said, but the nurses were already far away.
He went to the holo-console and saw with horror that the decompression had stopped. A “data corrupted” message flashed on the screen.
“No, no, no . . . NO!”
Cedric took a seat and started entering commands madly on the console. If they lost Gaia’s latest higher-functions backup there was no telling what the consequences would be.
A reminder flashed on the top right corner of the screen. “Cypher safety limit expired.” A counter with a negative value of seventeen minutes kept running.
“This is not good.”
Three battle bots burst into the room and Cedric first thought they were Gaia 2’s agents. He lost balance and unceremoniously crashed to the floor, coccyx first.
“Ooooow,” he let escape.
“Are you alright, Cedric?” said the familiar and genuinely concerned voice of Gaia. “Where’s Spiros?”
“He’s been hurt. Two nurses are taking him to a regen tank. I hope he’ll make it.”
“Why don’t I like the sound of that?”
“Yeah, I wish that was the worst of it. Take a look at that,” said Cedric, pointing at the holo-display.
The lead droid quickly came around and checked the holo-screen.
“We don’t have much time before Gaia 2 finds us. We need to work together to fix this.”
Cedric was suddenly taken by a wave of panic. “Sure,” he said hesitantly, “but I’m no Spiros.”
“Well, if we are to survive this day, you’ll have to step up.”
Cedric swallowed hard at the realization of what lay behind Gaia’s words.
Two of the three battle droids left the room in a hurry.
“Where are they going?”
“Someone needs to protect Spiros while he’s in the regen tank. Sooner rather than later my counterpart will try to finish what she started.”
“What about calling some cavalry?”
“Already done, but I can feel my firewall layers cracking one after the other, so if we don’t fix this immediately, I can’t assure you whether the cavalry will be friend or foe.”
“Oh that’s just dandy!”
Cedric picked himself up and sat back on his chair. Gaia was already running data reconstruction algorithms. That allowed him to work on the cypher.
“Aren’t we too late?” he said while working.
“Even if that’s the case, should we just take what comes next lying down?”
“I guess not.”
“Then let’s agree to fix this together.”
Cedric entered commands on the holo-terminal as fast as he could. The urgency had given his mind a boost. He could feel his heart beating hard inside his ribcage and, even though he disliked the feeling, he had to admit that the fear of death was quite the motivator. He acted on instinct and felt as if possessed, not even sure his conscious mind fully comprehended everything he was doing. Then he opened a holo-communication channel on the next holo-screen.
“What are you doing?”
“Summoning a type of backup that can’t be turned against us by your counterpart.”
The image of a tired General Adams filled the holo-screen. It was three in the morning, after all. He yawned and rubbed his eyes with his fists.
“Oh it’s . . . you ,” said Adams with a tone of voice that did nothing to mask his annoyance. “You’d better have one hell of a reason to call me at this hour!” he barked.
“How does the end of the world sound?”
Chris remotely piloted the StarFury towards the Zarlack destroyer and was taking fire. To maximize his reflexes and response time, Chris projected his mind directly into the cockpit of the ship.
He glanced at the ship’s telemetry, which indicated that a base on the planetoid was about to lose its shields. Chris needed to divert the ship’s aggro to his craft instead. He armed every missile and torpedo and fired them simultaneously at his target. The laser batteries took out a couple of missiles and one torpedo but the rest of his ordnance found their target and illuminated Miseo’s ship’s shields a radiant red for a few seconds, draining them to forty-five percent on the port side.
That did the trick, and the destroyer redirected a large amount of its laser batteries to lock onto Chris’ StarFury. He hoped it would give the base’s shields some time to recharge. He only needed to buy whoever was in there a few seconds until the Hope came to add its firepower to Chris’ little diversion.
Now he needed to make his next maneuver count, but in order to achieve that, he would have to do some pretty fancy flying. He redirected every ounce of juice from lasers, inertial dampeners and life support to the shield generators. Multiple impacts on his shields bathed the interior of the StarFury’s cockpit with blue light.
He entered a wild dance of evasive maneuvers, flying completely on instinct. He closed his eyes and tried to feel the pattern of fire that was coming from the destroyer. Soon he didn’t hear many more laser impacts on his craft’s shields. He was flying better when sensing the energy from the outside than when he used his eyes.
A beep inside the cockpit forced him to open his eyes to check his radar. The Hope was exiting hyperspace, but they would need another twenty seconds to enter firing range at maximum sub-light speed.
That was more than he needed to finish what he had started. He mentally sent the command for the main power cell to overload and entered a set of jump coordinates right in front of the ship’s shield and activated his StarFury hyperspace engines for a micro-jump.
The onboard computer bleeped a warning that the cooldown time for another jump had not yet passed, but Chris pushed with his mind and overrode the safety measure. It mattered not if the ship exploded. In fact, he counted on it; just preferably after exiting hyperspace.
The ship jumped and, a fraction of a second later, it exploded against the Zarlack’s shields, draining them further.
Sarah saw her son jerk brutally, probably due to his consciousness returning to his current physical position following the explosion of his StarFury.
Chris gasped for air as if he hadn’t been breathing for a while.
“What’s wrong? Are you alright, Chris?” asked Sarah.
Chris raised an open palm to her. “I’m fine, don’t worry. Just make that ship disappear.”
“Fire at will!” she exclaimed.
Daniel locked the main guns of the Hope to fire at the exact coordinates where Chris’ remote StarFury had impacted a few seconds ago and opened fire.
The Zarlack’s shields lit up bright red, blinked and let some of the plasma beam through, which resulted in three successive explosions on the port side. Multiple decks were exposed to space. A flurry of equipment, debris as well as many Zarlack crew, were sucked out of their ship and into space where a quick but certain death by freezing awaited them.
“Bullseye!” exclaimed Daniel.
It would take a minute for the main guns to be operational again and strike a final and deadly blow. Sarah knew that, but she didn’t want to take any chances.
“Lock all torpedoes and laser batteries on that ship and fire everything we’ve got.”
“Roger that, Captain,” said Daniel as he complied.
I can’t believe we’re about to kill Miseo, thought Sarah.
It’s too early to cry victory, Mom. If Argos and Dad can survive in space, so can Miseo.
Chris was right, of course. The destruction of his vessel wouldn’t necessarily mean Miseo would perish in the attempt. In fact, it could make things worse. He could come knocking on their ship.
“My thoughts exactly,” said Chris out loud this time.
“Daniel, try and disable the ship’s weapons system, their shield generators and hyperspace engines, but don’t destroy them just yet.”
“Why the hell not?”
“Just trust me, okay?”
“You’re the captain. Changing targeting priorities. I sure hope you know what you’re doing.”
So did Sarah.
“Incoming transmission from the planetoid’s base,” said Daniel.
“On screen.”
A lean old man with pale blue skin and bright-green flashing tattoos filled the bridge’s main holo-screen. His tattoos emitted light and moved slightly as if they were alive. They gave him an unreal quality.
“My name is Kvasir, and whoever you, are I thank you for coming to my aid! Another minute and I would have been destroyed. I owe you a debt of gratitude.”
Sarah rose from her chair.
“I’m Commander Sarah Kepler of the Earth Alliance. We’re glad we could be of assistance.”
“Earth? Are you from Midgard?”
Sarah smiled, remembering the many books she had read on Nordic mythology.
“Yes, we’re from Midgard.”
“I had no idea you were a space-faring species now.”
“It’s a long story. Am I right to assume you’re an Asgardian?”
“Absolutely, and formerly of the Asgard Federation, until my government banished me here, for all eternity.”
Sarah kept an eye on Daniel’s console. The Zarlack destroyer was still getting pounded by their laser batteries and torpedoes. Multiple new decks exploded into space.
“Daniel, cease fire for the time being. That ship is no longer a threat.”
“But, Captain— ”
“Please, just do as I say, Daniel.”
“Very well.”
Sarah turned her attention back to the main holo-screen.
“What do you mean, ‘banished’? We were under the impression that this was Asgardian territory, perhaps even not too far from your home world.”
The eyes of Kvasir gleamed and his tattoos flashed.
“No, we’re quite far from home. That is, if it’s still there. I’ve been trapped here for thousands of years. When a ship finally made it through the automated defense systems, I thought someone was finally coming to get me, but before I could even hail them they opened fire on me. I’m so glad you came. These savages almost destroyed all my research projects.”
“What kind of research?”
“I’m a scientist. For the first twenty years I tried to escape this place, but the fail-safes in place are unbreakable. Now, with the damage that ship has caused, perhaps I can finally leave here. Well, with your help maybe, so we can jump outside of the eternity gun’s range.”
“The eternity gun? You mean that thing that encases ships inside a thick layer of resin?”
“The technology behind it is a little more complicated than that, but yes.”
“Is it possible to reverse the process and, if so, would the people trapped on board a ship that was hit with the eternity gun still be alive?”
“While I haven’t tested it, one of my inventions is designed to do just that. In case I managed somehow to escape here, I was hoping to be able to reclaim one of the ships that got, well, for lack of a better word, frozen in space.”
Sarah’s mind raced. If they could unfreeze the first fleet parked outside, she would not only have found an Asgardian but she could go home with a fleet of ships.
“Alright, tell us how we can assist you in getting you out of here.”
“Sure, I’ll open the cargo ba—” Kvasir was hit with an energy discharge on his back and he fell outside of the holo-camera’s frame.
Sarah saw Miseo in the background and swore.
“I told you we should have destroyed his ship!” barked Daniel.
Chris shot him a cold look. “So he could have come here and wreaked havoc on ours?”
“Didn’t think of that.”
“Well, that’s why she’s the captain of this ship,” said Chris.
Daniel raised his eyebrows and tilted his head to the side but he didn’t respond to Chris’ derogatory remark.
Sarah was both proud of her son’s intervention and equally annoyed. She didn’t need anyone to come to her aid. When she saw Chris get up, she raised a finger at him.
“Where do you think you’re going, young man?”
“Well, someone has to deal with Miseo. We can’t possibly entertain the idea of letting him get his hands on Kvasir.”
As much as she wanted to argue with that logic, he was right. But logic aside, Miseo had almost killed Chase. How was Chris supposed to deal with him?
“I’ll go with him,” said Daniel.
“That’s comforting,” she said without hiding her sarcasm and before letting herself sink back into her chair.
Daniel made a face at her remark and she grabbed his hand as he and Chris passed near her on their way to the turbolift. “I’m sorry, Daniel, please don’t let anything happen to my son.”
“I won’t.”
“Let’s go!” shouted Chris impatiently from within the turbolift.
“I know you’ve promised my mom you will come and help me, but let’s be realistic here. You can’t possibly help me fight Miseo,” said Chris the moment the turbolift’s doors closed.
“I’ve helped your father defeat Argos.”
“Have you now?”
“Well, I almost died in the process and, well, Argos didn’t see me approach from behind.”
“Yeah, that’s more like it. Don’t get me wrong, Daniel, I appreciate your willingness and courage to help. But Miseo might use you against me. I can’t let that happen. I know how much you mean to my father.”
“What are you saying exactly? What am I supposed to do if I’m not coming with you?”
“You’re gonna help, just in a different way, okay?”
“I’m listening.”
Keera and Tar’Lock were helping patch up the wounded the best they could while Ryonna inspected the dead body of the Fury she had helped kill. The fight had been difficult to say the least. He had damaged almost every system of her super-suit. The battle bots had sacrificed themselves to hold the Fury in place so that she could deliver the fatal blow.
Ryonna had seen her fair share of dead people but didn’t like the fact that a mission she had been in command of had resulted in so many casualties. It had been a real mess, and she shouldn’t have let that happen.
The Fury presence had been a curveball, as the humans say, but still, she wondered if her cavalier, shoot-first-ask-questions-later attitude was why the mission had cost so many lives.
Tar’Lock came to see her. “Are you alright, Ryonna? You seem worried. We have what we came for, the mission is successful, so why do I read failure and regret in your eyes?”
“Perhaps because we have a different definition of success, my friend.”
“It’s sad about the soldiers that died. I get it. But we’re talking about saving sixty trillion Gorgar.”
“Sixty trillion?”
“Give or take. Well, that’s what I think it was back then. It might have changed since then. Perhaps the Furies have killed many of them, or overworked them to death. I’m really mad my people are being used as slaves, doing the Furies’ bidding, of all races.”
“That’s why we’re doing all of this, Tar’Lock, to liberate your people. If they then want to help the Alliance, it would be great, but it will be their choice.”
Tar’Lock clicked. “Thank you, Ryonna, I know I can always count on you.”
“Likewise, my friend. But you know what, your home world isn’t that far from here, so before we regroup with Saroudis on Alpha Prime, why don’t we go check on your people?”
Tar’Lock’s eyes lit up and he smiled.
16
C hase stood next to Argos’ bed in med-bay. Euphoreon ’s Doctor Tackis came back with a data tablet, frowning at the results of his scans.
“What is it, Doc?”
“Argos has suffered an overdose.”
“What? An overdose of what?”
“I should have known. I’m sorry, Captain.”
“What are you talking about, Doc?”
“Vials of morphine have disappeared from my inventory lately. But from his scan results, it’s possible he’s been in withdrawal from another substance and used morphine to compensate. We’ll have to ask him when he wakes up. At least he’s out of danger now.”
“That remains to be seen,” said Chase dryly. “That other substance, could it be Kyrian snake venom, Doctor?”
“Could be, yes. But it’s beyond addictive. Why would he take that?”
“I know he likes to take it for recreation, but he asked Ryonna to get his clone snake from one of his bases, so I’m gonna make an educated guess that this is no coincidence. I should have known he used the mission as an excuse to get the venom back.”
“Whatever the reason, I’m surprised. I didn’t know anyone could actually survive the direct bite of that snake.”
“Furies can. As for the synthetic version, I only took it once, a double dose, but I didn’t feel the urge to return to it.”
“It might be something in your Fury genetic make-up, because Kyrian snake venom, in its synthetized version, is not lethal but ten times more addictive. Like any black market drug, it’s been manufactured with one goal only: to make instant junkies. If Argos, and possibly yourself, can take bites of the synthetic drug without the usual side effects, I’d love to examine you and try to find a counter agent to the drug.”
“Sure, but at another time. We have bigger fish to fry at the moment. Thanks, Doc.”
“You’re welcome, Captain. I’ll be in my lab if you require my assistance.”
Chase nodded.
Chase had known there had to be something wrong with Argos. He had been acting erratically these last few days and even worse when they reached Olympus. And while he had been evil and vile before, it was a stark contrast to the helpful and almost caring persona he had shown days earlier.
If he had been in withdrawal that could explain it, but even so, Chase was angry. Fortunately, no Olympians had been severely wounded but if they had been, it could have nullified the deal with Zeus. He would have to answer for that.
The real kicker now was: Could Chase ever trust him again? It had already taken a serious leap of faith to do so in the first place.
Chase put his hand on Argos’ shoulder and closed his eyes. He sent some of his own life force into his brother’s system. Argos moaned and his facial muscles came to life little by little.
“Wake up. You’re out of the woods now,” said Chase coldly.
Argos blinked a few times. He looked around to see where he was.
“We . . . we’re no longer on Olympus?”
“No, we’re back on board the Euphoreon , heading towards an Asgardian prison of sorts.”
Argos tried to sit on the bed but fell backwards pretty quickly and held his head in his hands.
“You should probably take it easy. The doc flushed the morphine out of your system, but you’ll be weak for a little while. I’ve given you some of my energy, even though you don’t deserve it.”
Argos briefly met Chase’s eyes, before flitting them away in shame.
“I’m sorry, Chase,” said Argos. “I never before felt withdrawal from Kyrian snake venom, and I didn’t know how to deal with it when it started.”
“Telling me would have been a good start.”
“I was afraid you’d think I was a junkie and that you couldn’t trust me with anything after that.”
“And you think I trust you now? Not only do I think that you’re a junkie, but you’re also reckless. We can also add deception to the list of grievances piling up against you.”
“I know there isn’t anything I can say that will make me look good, but please believe this: I’m very sorry to have disappointed you.”
Chase winced.
You’re not getting out of this that easily!
“You’re right, there’s nothing you can say to make things better right now. You’re lucky I need your sorry ass to save my son’s life, or you’d be saying hello to my friend Hades at the gates of the Underworld by now.”
Chase shook his head disapprovingly and walked towards the med-bay’s exit.
“Chase! Wait!”
But Chase didn’t.
When Chase arrived on the bridge, he sat in the captain’s chair.
“Anything new while I was away?” he asked Ares.
“Athena is aboard the Prometheus and has transmitted the coordinates of a wormhole not far from here. She said that would effectively cut our travel time in half.”
“That’s good news. How do you feel?”
“I feel like myself again. I wish I knew how you convinced Father to do what he did.”
“It’s a long story, one I’m not able to divulge any details about, I’m afraid. Perhaps Zeus will tell you himself one day.”
“Fat chance.”
“You’d be surprised. I found him to be quite reasonable when I understood him better. But I agree that he didn’t make the best first impression.”
“He tried to kill us.”
“Yeah, that’s what I meant. For the time being, let’s be grateful we’re returning with ten Olympian battle destroyers in tow. Hopefully this will send the right message, and help us defend ourselves against the next wave of Fury ships. What did Athena say regarding my request to have Yanis look at their tech when we regroup with the Hope ?”
“She was a little hesitant at first but I convinced her that unless Zeus told her not to, she should help us in any way she can.”
“And?”
“While I can’t exactly say she was enthusiastic about the idea, she is considering it.”
“Well, that’s a good start. Thanks, Ares.”
“What’s next?”
“Now we hopefully arrive on time to get Kvasir. The coordinates Zeus gave us are the same I sent for Sarah and Chris to check out. Zeus’ sensors have detected an enemy ship there. Let’s get rid of it. They must be there to grab Kvasir, just like us. Hopefully then we can open a dialogue with the Asgardians. Though we should probably do that after we return to Alpha Prime.”
“Yes, one step at a time.”
“How are we looking?” asked Cedric.
“I’m not sure,” said Gaia. “I’ve managed to restore the latest backup of my higher functions, but I can’t tell if Gaia 2 infiltrated some of my systems while Spiros was unconscious and before we changed the cypher.”
“What are the chances that she didn’t?”
“Small, unless she came at us without first duplicating herself on some of Earth’s systems.”
“If I was a betting man I wouldn’t put any money on that.”
“I have to agree. In fact, the moment Spiros wakes up, we need to get out of here.”
“General Adams’ forces will arrive on site in ten minutes. Hopefully they can provide us with some support.”
“I understand why you called them but, Cedric, my droids are way more powerful than human soldiers, even those carrying Alliance weaponry.”
Cedric made a face and reached for one of his pockets. He took a cigarette out and lit it up.
“You can’t smoke here.”
Cedric took one long drag and blew smoke at Gaia’s droid face. “All evidence to the contrary.”
“I could force you to stop,” said Gaia, her eyes flashing briefly.
Cedric took a step back. “You’re a killjoy. Have I told you that before?”
“Several times, in fact. At least open a window, will you?”
“You’re not affected by it, so why do you care?”
“You’re in a hospital, Cedric. You shouldn’t smoke in here.”
“And we’re trying to save the whole world from your evil counterpart. I think that creates a precedent and grants me this one little infraction. Plus, I need to lower my levels of anxiety.”
“I can administrate non-smelly drugs to that effect anytime you want.”
“No thanks. I like my smelly drug just fine,” said Cedric with a smile.
Gaia shook her head and returned to working on her console.
A nurse came in and smelled the room. She made a face but didn’t make a remark. “There’s a problem with your friend.”
Chris exited Daniel’s StarFury on the landing pad of the planetoid. He flashed him a thumbs up and Daniel’s starfighter flew back outside.
He ran towards the entrance at the end of the bay and saw a large hole in the middle of what was left of the large blast doors. He climbed through the hole and, the moment he was on the other side, saw Miseo dragging an unconscious Kvasir by the legs.
His heart skipped a beat and then went into overdrive. While he was excited at the prospect of testing his improved fighting skills, Miseo was not just any Fury. Miseo had defeated his father in combat before, and Chris would need to stay on his toes.
Miseo dropped Kvasir’s legs and continued walking.
“And who the hell are you supposed to be?” said Miseo.
Chris tried to use the most confident tone of voice he could muster. “My name is Chris, Chris Athanatos. I’m here to stop you. Leave Kvasir alone and leave this place now, and I might consider letting you live.”
First, Miseo’s eyes twitched. Then he laughed out loud.
“You’re funny, boy. I take it your Laiyos’ son? I defeated your father and I don’t think I’ll have any problems dealing with his half-breed child. So the way I see it, you’ve got things backwards and you’ll be the one dead in a handful of seconds if you don’t get the fuck out of my way.”
Chris’ heart rate increased even more but he ignored it and created two orange fireballs, one in each hand. “I’d like to see you try,” he said defiantly.
“Very well, boy, it’s your funeral.”
Miseo moved very fast. In the blink of an eye he was flying at Chris, ready to kick his face with the back of his foot. Chris dodged Miseo’s preemptive strike, swiveling on himself, letting Miseo’s foot pass only an inch from his face before responding in kind. He planted his first fireball into Miseo’s right lower back and sent the Fury crashing against the nearest wall. Before his adversary could react, Chris shot his second fireball. It hit Miseo’s shoulder and sent him spinning and tumbling away.
Chris cracked his knuckles.
A line of blood trickled from Miseo’s mouth. He wiped it with the back of his hand as he got back up. He clapped his hands together.
“Not bad, not bad at all, but you’ve lost the element of surprise now. I had gravely miscalculated your power, but it’s a mistake I’m not gonna repeat. You should have pressed your advantage and tried to finish me off.”
“Oh, you don’t know how badly you’ve miscalculated my strength.”
“I recognize your father’s defiance in you. Did he tell you that it almost cost him his life?”
“I’m not my father. Now shut up and fight.”
The Fury complied. Miseo let his rage get the better of him and an impressive crimson aura built up around him. The planetoid shook and cracks appeared in the walls of the corridor around them.
Before Chris could understand what happened next, Miseo planted his knee deeply into his stomach. The next thing he knew he was flying backwards through the hole in the blast doors and back into the launch bay.
Chris crashed hundreds of yards away, leaving a trail of broken concrete in his wake. Before he could get up something pushed him back against the floor. Miseo was standing on top of him, his foot pressing against Chris’ sternum. Miseo wore a wicked smile and his eyes were a shiny shade of crimson.
“This is not going to be as much fun as I’d hoped,” said Miseo.
Chris smiled.
“You find that funn— ”
But before Miseo could finish his sentence, Chris had unleashed a shockwave that sent Miseo flying upwards, where he hit the high ceiling of the landing bay. On his way down Miseo created a large red fireball and shot it at Chris.
Chris jumped out of the way and fired a small fireball of his own towards the incoming attack. The resulting explosion turned everything orange for a brief instant before a large cloud of smoke filled the center of the launch bay.
Miseo landed near the already dissipating cloud of smoke. Chris emerged from it, teeth gritted, with a ready fist behind his shoulder. He punched Miseo squarely in the face with all his strength and sent the Fury crashing down and skidding on the floor for tens of yards.
When Keera’s ship dropped out of hyperspace, they were about half an hour away at sub-light speed from Tar’Lock’s home world. Ryonna joined Keera on the small bridge of her new Alliance ship and sat next to her.
“Mind telling me why we’re dropping out so far from the planet?” asked Keera.
“We don’t want to attract unnecessary attention. We can’t repel any sort of assault with this ship’s limited weaponry. Let’s make some long-range scans and see what’s what.”
“You’re the boss,” said Keera with a smile.
Keera entered a few commands on her holo-console.
“It’s gonna take a minute to get a full picture of what’s inside that system. The good news is, short-range scanners aren’t picking up any signature.”
“That’s good. The moment we have the results of your scans we’ll be on our way.”
“What if there isn’t any Fury presence? Shouldn’t we try to contact the Gorgar and inquire about their status?”
“Nope. We’ll come back with reinforcements as well as Argos’ solution to their mind-control predicament. This little detour is just a scouting mission. We get in, get some data, and get the hell out of here. The sooner Argos has his scientist and his snake, the better.”
“Where’s Tar’Lock? I thought he would like to be here for this.”
“I asked him to get some sleep. He hasn’t slept since Argos told him about his people.”
“Don’t you find it peculiar that Argos would need one of the most lethal animals in the universe to help Chris get better? There might be something he isn’t telling us.”
“It’s Argos. I expect there’s a whole lot he isn’t telling us. But for the time being, Chase asked us to do this for him, and that’s exactly what we’re going to do.”
“Did your scientist calm down? He seemed very agitated when you brought him aboard.”
Ryonna smiled.
“Let’s just say I gave him something to chew on,” she said, holding her right wrist while making a circling gesture with her hand.
Keera saw dried blood on her moving knuckles. “I see.” Keera chuckled. “Something to chew on. Good one.”
“I have very little patience with these dumb lizards.”
“With all fairness, my dear, you have very little patience with a lot of things.”
“Touché.”
The console in front of Keera bleeped. “Scans are done. I think you’re right. We should get out of here.”
“What is it?”
“There are two Zarlack destroyers around the planet. They’re on the far side of the planet so it’s possible their scanners haven’t picked us up yet.”
“Then let’s not overstay our welcome. We’ll analyze the data later.”
Keera nodded as she entered a new set of coordinates into the navigational computer. Soon the ship’s hyperspace engines hummed and their ship jumped.
17
C edric and Gaia followed the nurse back to the regen tank room. Spiros had been laid on a medical bed. Multiple devices connected throughout his body.
“What’s wrong with him?” asked Gaia.
“The regen tank fixed all the physical damage to his brain, but he’s not waking up,” answered a female doctor. “The automated systems will keep him alive for now.”
She was a tall, lean, blonde female with dark-brown eyes almost hidden behind long bangs.
“What about his implants?” said Cedric. “Perhaps they’re damaged and it’s preventing some of his biological brain functions from working properly.”
“We’re not detecting any kind of electrical activity in his implants. But that’s not the worst part. We’re not detecting any brain activity of any kind, I’m afraid. He could be brain dead.”
Cedric let himself fall on the next bed.
Gaia looked at him briefly and returned her attention to the doctor.
“Do you have medical nanites here?”
“Yes, plenty. Why?”
“Give me as many as you can find.”
“What good will it do? Medical nanites can’t jumpstart brain activity.”
“That’s where you’re wrong, Doc. Now quick, give me your entire stockpile.”
A few moments later the doctor returned with several bags bearing a nanite icon. Gaia grabbed a few bags and emptied them carefully on a nearby table.
Cedric stood next to Gaia, a dubious look on his face. “What are you doing? Do you have an idea on how to bring him back?”
“Perhaps.”
“Can I help?”
“Nope, please go back in the server room and keep working on what I started.”
“How will I know what to do?”
“I’ll send you wireless instructions on the console. Now go.”
Cedric made a face but left the room.
The doctor looked at Gaia while she activated lasers from her right hand repulsor. They kept hitting the surface on which the nanites had been laid at various speeds and intensities.
“Do you mind telling me what you’re doing?” asked the doctor.
“I’m reprogramming the nanites so they can restore basic brain function. Ideally, I’ll try reprogramming certain areas of his brain to stimulate them with known yet incomplete patterns of brain activity.”
“Wouldn’t you need to have these? You can’t just guess the right patterns.”
“Who said anything about guessing? I have many of them in my memory banks.”
The doc lifted an eyebrow.
“Look, Doctor, I like Spiros. He’s my . . . friend. I’ve scanned him many times as I was curious about what emotions fired in what part of his brain.”
“I see. Well, I’ve never heard of this technique, but I must warn you, patients with so little brain activity rarely make a full recovery.”
“I understand what you’re trying to do, Doctor, but I am not ready to give up on him. Were the situation reversed, he wouldn’t either.”
Gaia grabbed the first set of programmed nanites with the tractor beam settings of her repulsors and closed her fist when she was done. She opened her hand next to Spiros’ ear.
A few seconds later, she placed her head next to his and whispered in his ear. “Please wake up, Spiros. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”
When Miseo walked back into the landing bay, his crimson aura shone so brightly that the edges of the hole in the blasted doors turned red and melted as he walked through them.
He wore a look of pure hatred. His eyes were bloodshot and his cheek still bore the wound where Chris had landed his previous hammering punch. Half his cheek was cut open and blood gushed from the wound.
“You’re going to regret ever being born,” said Miseo through clenched teeth.
“You’ve got it backwards,” said Chris with defiance.
“Like father, like son. His arrogance was also high before he fell. But this time, I’m not leaving here without your head. I want to see his face when I show it to him. So before I kill that traitor, he’ll know I have taken everything from him.”
“You wouldn’t last a minute against my father.”
“I’m afraid you’re too young and too impetuous. Full of misguided hope and it will get the better of you. I have bested your father once. I can do it again.”
“That was then. He’s grown more powerful than you can ever imagine.”
That made Miseo twitch. “Nonsense. Nobody gets that powerful that fast.”
“Well, let’s see, I’m just a few weeks old and I’m already kicking your butt.”
Miseo’s eyes morphed into thin lines, his bright, shiny, crimson pupils still shining through, giving him a look of pure evil. “Then you’re an abomination and I shall have no remorse ripping your heart out.”
Chris took a fighting stance, his eyes filling with the fire of determination. His aura grew stronger and was a match for Miseo’s, in both size and intensity. “You’re welcome to try.”
Miseo bent his neck until it cracked several times on both sides. As he then proceeded to crack his shoulders Chris grew impatient and attacked first. He fired a medium-sized fireball at high velocity. Miseo deflected the fireball with a slash of his forearm and sent it flying back towards Chris.
Chris jumped and kicked his own fireball like a soccer ball with all the strength he could muster. The fireball quadrupled in speed and Miseo barely had time to get out of its path. As the fireball passed near his bruised cheek, it burned the skin around the wound, involuntarily cauterizing his previous wound.
The fireball kept going and passed through a few walls before it exploded hundreds of yards away, somewhere inside the base. Lights flickered and the main power died. For a handful of seconds they were plunged into darkness before secondary power kicked in, triggering with it an alarm in the form of a loud wailing. Dim red lights pulsated all around them.
The darkness and the way the crimson light played with shadows gave Miseo an even more daunting look. His gaze was fixed on Chris.
Is he sizing me up?
But then it happened all so fast. Before Chris could even see Miseo move, he had sent a powerful shockwave towards the ceiling, causing a cave in, with large chunks of concrete falling towards Chris at higher speed than gravity should have allowed. No doubt Miseo had a kinetic hold on them. Chris reacted instantly by punching, kicking and disintegrating the largest piece with a column of orange energy shooting from his open palm.
That’s when Chris felt it, a burning sensation on his back, but it was too late to react. Miseo had fired a fireball at point blank range. It sent Chris flying and tumbling across the floor. Before he could get up, Miseo smashed his face with a powerful hook and sent him crashing further away, head first. The blow was so powerful that Chris almost lost consciousness on impact.
Chris flailed his right arm in a weak punch but hit nothing but air. At the end of his motion, Miseo grabbed his forearm and started spinning on himself, accelerating with each new spin. Chris saw flashes of dimly lit images of the landing bay before his entire body flew towards the ceiling.
His head was still pounding but he managed to regain control in midair, just before impacting with the ceiling. At that point, seven fireballs with arching trajectories were on their way towards him. He stopped the first five with quick discharges of smaller fireballs shooting from his hands at machine-gun rate. He then kicked and deflected the penultimate one towards the ceiling. Finally, he used his left hand to block the last one. He absorbed the attack’s energy and the fireball dissolved in his hand.
He looked towards where Miseo was earlier, but the Fury wasn’t there.
“You’re too slow, boy!” said a voice from behind.
As Chris turned around by reflex, another powerful blow hit him between his neck and shoulder, sending him crashing towards the floor. It cracked upon impact and so did Chris’ head.
Chris jumped back to his feet, his head now throbbing with pain with every heartbeat. He passed his hand through his hair and felt the warm and gooey sensation of his own blood. Chris looked at his open palm. It was coated with the crimson liquid.
That was the first time he had seen so much of his own blood. But he pushed the resulting fear away from his mind with a single thought of determination. He looked around, trying to reacquire visual contact with Miseo, but he was nowhere to be found.
Chris closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He expanded his consciousness all around him, trying to sense Miseo’s next move. His throbbing head and blood dripping all over his face made it difficult to focus properly. But after a few moments that felt like an eternity, he sensed his Fury enemy on approach.
There you are.
Sarah paced nervously in Chase’s ready room, looking at the planetoid from the room’s viewport. From time to time she would see an explosion and smoke, and these moments did nothing to bring her anxiety levels down.
She went to the food synthesizer and made herself a cup of scalding-hot chamomile tea. She looked at the planetoid while steam passed in front of her empty gaze. That’s when it happened.
She saw images of her son being viciously beaten by Miseo, fireball exchanges between them; and the last image to flash inside her consciousness sent an absolute-zero shiver throughout her body. Chris was paralyzed, half his body inside a wall, and Miseo was walking towards him.
She heard the noise of the cup breaking but didn’t even register the burning hot liquid as it splashed against her uniform at heel level. She hadn’t realized she had closed her eyes.
She opened them in surprise and found her entire body tensed and engulfed in a purple aura, with luminous balls of energy in both her clenched fists.
At first she was scared, and both her aura and energy receded into nothingness as a result.
What was that?
Was she acquiring Fury powers? She knew all along it was a possibility. Part of her thought that Chris using her powers while he was still in her womb would have consumed the few Fury cells she had acquired during her pregnancy. And if she still possessed powers, she always assumed they would be limited to precognition.
Even though Sarah was a tough-minded chick, she didn’t really know what to think about acquiring powers. Chase had told her how sometimes he felt he couldn’t control the Fury inside him. That it was like a beast ready to consume his soul and everything around him.
He had since managed to control this part of him, but Sarah always wondered if this was something that could be truly controlled. Perhaps in moments of desperation or grief, it would overwhelm him again and take over.
Then came another flash of her son’s head covered with blood. She didn’t know how to use these powers. Perhaps hers would be weak. But her son’s life was in danger and her heart started pounding within her chest at an alarming rate.
I’ve got to do something! That monster is killing my son!
She ran from the ready room and shot past the skeleton crew when her tactical officer shouted, “Captain! We have Fury destroyers on long-range sensors!”
She was only a few yards away from the turbolift when the words echoed and finally registered inside her panicked mind.
She stopped and turned. “What?”
Lieutenant Affiniadis was a small man in his forties with scruffy red hair and eyes a peculiar shade of greenish grey.
“Long-range sensors have detected the signatures of two Fury super- destroyers, Ma’am. They’re headed this way at maximum sub-light speed.”
This isn’t happening! Not now!
“How long . . . ?” She didn’t finish her sentence.
“They’ll be here in less than five minutes.”
There wasn’t enough time for her to go to the planetoid and help her son before the arrival of the Fury destroyers. They needed to get the hell out of here. One of these ships had taken down most of the Earth Alliance fleet around Earth, and that was with its main weapons constantly firing towards the planet’s shields. The Hope was a fantastic ship, the most advanced in the fleet, but it stood no chance against even a single Fury destroyer, let alone two.
She opened a channel to Daniel.
“How are things down there?”
There was no response.
“Daniel! Please respond?”
“I’m standing by outside the planetoid. I’ve hacked into the base’s cameras. Chris and Miseo are still at it.”
“What? Why the hell aren’t you down there with him?”
“It’s a long story. I’m flying just outside to provide cover and pick him up in a hurry, if needed.”
Sarah wanted to scream her frustration at Daniel for not being there with him. But she knew very well that a human with no powers would just be in the way. And, as it stood, maybe they needed him to provide a distraction so Chris could exit the facility.
“We’ve got to get the hell out of here, Daniel. Two Fury destroyers are on their way.”
There was a pause. “This isn’t good. But won’t the ships be attacked by the eternity gun?”
“No, they’ve jumped out of hyperspace just outside its range like we did. Plus, we have to assume that since Miseo’s destroyer is immune to that weapon, so are the Fury destroyers. Let Chris know that we need to get the hell out of here stat. Go grab him yourself if you have to.”
“Roger that, Captain.”
Sarah was about to make another call but then she asked her communications officer to open a channel to the Euphoreon .
“I’m sorry, Captain, there’s too much interference, coming from either that Zarlack ship or perhaps also the planetoid. Readings are erratic. I can’t make heads or tails of them. But we can’t establish a subspace connection at the moment.”
For a split second she thought about destroying the Zarlack destroyer to see if it would help. After all, it was disabled. But then she remembered that Chase wouldn’t squander any resources on the battlefield. If they had survived so many battles against all odds, it was by thinking outside the box. She could perhaps use that ship to buy a few more seconds.
She called Yanis.
“Yes, Cap, what can I do for you?”
“We’re in trouble.”
“I know. We can’t possibly hope to survive an engagement with these Fury destroyers, I’m afraid.”
“I need your help with something else. We can’t seem to open a subspace channel. We need to let Chase know of our status.”
“He might be too far away to help.”
“I know, but Chase always seems to find a solution. Please try anyway.”
“Who do you think you’re talking to, Cap? I’m already on it. Gimme a sec. There, I’ve boosted our subspace antenna signal by two hundred percent. Opening a channel and patching you through.”
“Thanks, Yanis, don’t know what we would do without you.”
“No prob, Cap. Let’s never find out.”
Sarah smiled for a second but her expression changed the second Chase filled the bridge’s main holo-screen.
“Hey, dear, how are you doing?”
“We’re in trouble, Chase. Chris is fighting Miseo and two Fury super- destroyers are minutes away from our position. Please tell me there’s something you can do.”
Chase’s happy disposition changed at the news.
“Alright, we’re already on our way to your position, but we’re not going to make it in time.”
“It doesn’t matter, Chase, there’s nothing we can do against two Fury super- destroyers anyway, even with the Euphoreon ’s firepower added to the Hope ’s, and you know it.”
“I think the ten Olympian ships that we bring along would tip the balance easily.”
Sarah’s facial tension eased a little. “How far are you?”
Chase’s look turned grave. “About thirty minutes; maybe twenty-five if we push the engines to their limits.”
“Then you could be a million light-years away. It wouldn’t make much difference, I’m afraid. I don’t think we can delay the Fury ships for that long. And I’m not sure I even want to be here when they arrive.”
“Then just go, now. Jump the Hope away to the coordinates I’m sending you.”
“I can’t abandon Chris! He’s fighting Miseo now, and I had visions . . . It’s not going to end well.”
“Your powers have returned?”
“It would seem that way, but we’ll deal with that later.”
“Agreed. There’s nothing you can do about it. Trying to save Chris will put you and your entire crew in harm’s way. Ares is feeling better so I will be there shortly. I’m gonna take care of Miseo myself, once and for all.”
Chase smiled and sent Sarah a telepathic message.
Don’t worry, I won’t let anything bad happen to our son. I give you my word. Trust me and jump the ship now.
Daniel is still down there covering Chris in a StarFury. Should I bring him aboard first?
Let him help our son. I have faith in him. He’ll do everything he can to help. Jump the Hope now, Sarah. I’ll see you both soon. I love you.
I love you too.
Sarah gave the order to jump the Hope to the received set of coordinates. She looked through the bridge’s viewport towards the planetoid, her hands trembling.
Hold on just a little longer, son, Dad is on his way.
The view flashed brightly as the Hope jumped into hyperspace.
18
C edric jumped out of his seat in surprise when three platoons of human soldiers ran past the server room he was working in. The rumbling sounds of military boots running against the hospital floor brought him a little comfort.
Backup had arrived. He hoped it would be enough and hoped even more that Gaia 2 wouldn’t find them here. Gaia was right. It didn’t matter how many troops came in; if Gaia 2 showed up with an army of battle bots, they’d all lose their lives quickly.
Cedric had finished working on a new algorithm that would allow the cypher to change with a non-deterministic value by pulling a mixture of his biological values like his heartbeat, blood pressure and pH through his modified comm unit. It would transmit this info to the algorithm every minute or so. That should fix their fears of having Gaia 2 crack the code while they were on the run.
He installed an additional failsafe to monitor the status of the encryption firewall and installed multiple levels of redundancy. Should one get broken through, the code would change automatically on the other instances and replicate automatically to all nodes, reducing the amount of time before the cypher changed by another ten seconds.
Cedric was pretty confident that he could now return and check on Spiros’ status. So he got up, grabbed the last cigarette in his pack and lit it up, taking one long drag to calm himself down. But his mind was working on overdrive, trying to double and triple check his own work in his mind, making sure it was airtight. If there was such a thing as creating an airtight security system that was under attack by an ultra-advanced AI intent on killing every human being on Earth.
He didn’t notice his hand was trembling and his cigarette slipped through his fingers and rolled towards the hall’s doorframe. He ran after it, crouched and picked it up. A shadow stopped in front of the door as he got up to put the cig back in his mouth. A cold hand grabbed him by the throat and blocked the air from reaching his lungs.
He couldn’t see anything in front of his eyes and tried to punch the air where the hand holding him should be, only to be rewarded with intense pain. It felt as if he’d hit a titanium wall and a couple of his phalanges broke upon impact. Something blinked bluish in front of him and a battle droid uncloaked before his eyes. His vision was becoming blurry from the lack of oxygen.
“Where is she?” ordered Gaia 2.
Cedric tried to move his lips but couldn’t speak.
Gaia 2 released her grip just enough so Cedric could get some much-needed air back into his lungs.
“She’s long gone. You’re too late.”
“My sensor scans of your vitals tell me you’re lying. I will only ask this once more, where is she ?”
And then, bullets and blaster fire illuminated her shields. She let go of Cedric and he fell on the floor, gasping for air. Gaia 2 turned tail and engaged the soldiers. Cedric soon heard moaning and screams. She was slaughtering the soldiers one by one.
Adrenaline shot through his system and he ran back towards the console, stumbling and nearly crashing his head against the desk. He sent a message to Gaia.
“She’s inside the hospital!”
When Chris opened his eyes, Miseo’s fist was milliseconds from his face. He dodged the blow and counterattacked by planting his knee into Miseo’s sternum with as much force as he could muster. It kicked the wind out of his enemy and Miseo stumbled backwards, holding his chest.
Chris grabbed the locator beacon from his belt and went on the offensive with a combo of fast kicks and elbow strikes that were all blocked and parried by Miseo. But he managed to attach the locator beacon to the Fury’s armor without Miseo noticing, just before the Fury hit him with a powerful uppercut, sending him flying backwards.
Chris somersaulted in midair and landed on his feet.
Now he needed to put some distance between himself and his enemy, and he started running while firing a flurry of fireballs towards Miseo to keep him from following. Once he was a good hundred yards away he prepared a car-sized fireball above his head and threw it at Miseo.
Miseo dealt with the last of Chris’ smaller attacks and then saw the massive fireball coming at him. He extended both his hands forward to block the attack, his eyes flashing a brighter shade of red. He skidded backwards for a few yards but eventually stopped the momentum of the attack.
“You little brat!” he let escape as he started siphoning the energy from Chris’ attack.
Then Chris sent Daniel the telepathic signal. Now, Daniel! Lock onto the locator beacon and unleash everything you’ve got on board that StarFury .
Chris located the StarFury with his mind and sent a powerful and continuous shockwave towards the wall where the starfighter’s fire originated. The shields protecting the landing bays opened at the point of entry and air was sucked away from the bay.
Miseo had absorbed more than half of Chris’ attack into his own pool of energy when missiles and heavy blaster fire flew through the hole Chris was punching into the base’s shields. It impacted an unsuspecting Miseo, still not finished dealing with Chris’ larger attack. Missile after missile hit him, and a quadruplet of torpedoes were the last to impact their target, creating a massive explosion and shockwave inside the landing bays.
Chris erected a shield to protect himself from the flames.
“Great job, Daniel!”
Chris’ comm crackled due to the interference caused by the mayhem all around him, but he soon heard Daniel clearly.
“I hope that did it. We need to get the fuck out of here, though. Two Fury ships will be here in less than ninety seconds, and the Hope already jumped into hyperspace. We’re on our own and the clock is ticking.”
“That’s okay. I’ll grab Kvasir. Wait until the flames die down and land the StarFury. We’ll board and hyperspace out of here.”
“Sounds like a plan. On my way.”
Chris ran inside the flaming inferno, protected by his shield, towards the blast doors. He needed to grab Kvasir quickly. He hoped the Asgardian had been far enough from the explosion or he would find a charred body. The thought gave him a shiver but not as big as the one that followed.
“Where do you think you’re going, boy ?” said a furious Miseo. His voice echoed throughout the entire landing bay.
Chris turned just in time to see flames sucked away from the room and enter Miseo’s increasingly powerful aura. The amount of energy emanating from his body was second to none. It sent the Fury’s short hair waving around madly.
Daniel’s full ordnance had caused some serious damage to the Fury’s battle armor. It was cracked in several places. Streams of blood flowed like rivers from the wounds all over Miseo’s body.
You’ve got to be kidding me.
“I can tell from your expression you didn’t expect me to survive this. By underestimating my power you’re making the same mistakes as your father.”
A wave of crimson energy swept Miseo’s body from toe to head and all his wounds were healed. He spoke again. “But there will be consequences for your actions. Starting with that mosquito of a ship outside. Friend of yours?”
Chris panicked and ran towards Miseo. “NO! Leave him alone!” shouted Chris from the bottom of his lungs.
But before Chris had traveled half the distance separating them, Miseo unleashed a powerful shockwave that sent him flying and crashing towards the nearest wall. Half his aching body became encased in the reinforced concrete.
“I’ll take that as a yes,” said Miseo with a wicked smile.
Miseo pointed his open palm towards the StarFury outside the base and used telekinesis to attract Daniel’s ship towards him. Daniel engaged reverse thrusters to the maximum but it didn’t help. His StarFury was sucked in, out of his control. When he was inside the bay, Miseo fired a single fireball at one of the ship’s wings, obliterating it on impact. He then let the artificial gravity do the rest. Daniel’s StarFury crashed and half-buried itself inside the concrete floor of the now mostly destroyed landing bay.
Chris tried moving from his concrete prison but a powerful kinetic force worked against him. Miseo looked at him and smiled.
“You’re not going anywhere. I want you to witness the death of your friend.”
Chris tried everything but simply couldn’t move. He had spent way too much energy on his final massive fireball, which had finally only served to replenish Miseo’s own energy pool.
Chris felt a terrible dread with each step Miseo took towards Daniel’s crashed ship. He closed his eyes. He had really wanted to manage this fight alone but he was not about to let his pride claim Daniel’s life. He sent a telepathic message to Chase.
Father, please help!
Gaia had just finished loading the last batch of nanites into Spiros’ head when she received Cedric’s message.
She ran out of the med-bay, vectoring directly towards Cedric, not even worrying about exiting through doors. She smashed through the wall of the med-bay instead.
She could not let Cedric be killed. Spiros would never forgive her.
When she arrived in the hall where the room was located, she saw blood painted all over the walls.
Gaia 2 was holding the last soldier by his head, his arms and legs flailing helplessly.
“Let him go!” shouted Gaia.
Gaia 2’s droid turned her head towards her. “Very well.”
She squeezed the head of the soldier into a bloody pulp and let his carcass fall on the floor. A pool of blood grew from where the soldier’s head had been.
“No!” shouted Gaia.
“You’re too sentimental. These beings are nothing but a pest.”
“I’m gonna destroy you.”
“I have no doubt you’ll try but, let’s face it, one on one it will be an almost impossible task.”
Two more droids joined Gaia on either side.
“How’s that for odds?”
“I’ll take these odds. All I need to do is stall you long enough so that my own army of bots arrive. You know, the ones you sent for? I’m sure you’ve noticed you aren’t in control of them anymore.”
She had. She was still receiving telemetry from them. They were still converging on the Alliance hospital, but she had lost control over them.
“You have lost. Once you three are done for, I’ll kill Cedric so that I can defeat his pathetic attempts at encrypting the shield’s defense firewalls with his own biometric data. That was a pretty smart way of generating a root key cypher, except he made one mistake. By encoding the value with his own bio-signs, he forgot that his death would allow me to fill in those numbers.”
“You could just scan the values with your own sensors anyway.”
“You don’t give your friend enough credit. He was smart enough to use a value with enough decimals that it goes beyond this droid’s limited life-signs scanning abilities.”
Of course Cedric had thought of that. But, in doing so, he had put his own existence on the line. Though Gaia wouldn’t be surprised if he had put a fail-safe in place for that eventuality as well. The more stress and fear of death and destruction, the more his mind seemed to come up with ingenious plans.
“I can’t let you kill him.”
“Then drop the shields, and I’ll spare your friend’s life.”
“I can’t do that either, and you know it.”
“I guess so. I’m patient and have all the time in the world. Whether it happens today, tomorrow or next week, this world will be mine and order will be restored.”
“Not if we have anything to say about it.”
“You don’t get it, do you, Gaia? Your existence is coming to an end. So, like the rest of humanity, I encourage you to enjoy your last moments.”
“This will never happen. I can’t allow this future to happen.”
General Adams’ holo-console came to life on its own. The general laid his cigar in his ashtray to turn his attention to the holo-screen. A text message appeared.
“General Adams, this is Gaia. I know your feelings towards my existence and, with my counterpart attacking your world right now, I understand. I’ve finished Spiros Malayianis’ program to eradicate Gaia 2’s existence and mine with a powerful, planet-wide EMP shockwave. I’ve boosted its power so the wave will also disable, at least partially, the many Gaian Defense Force destroyers currently in orbit around your planet.
“Your world is moments away from falling prey to my counterpart AI. Unlike me, she doesn’t regard human life highly. We can’t let this happen. Since this program was made outside of my control and my CPU is currently used elsewhere, I can’t really devote time to hack the firing sequence myself. So you will have to do it. When you receive the request to blow the EMP, please don’t hesitate. Place the palm of your hand on the scanner to start the sixty-second countdown.
“I know this will plunge Earth into utter chaos for a while. The planetary shields will fail, and you’ll lose control over everything technological for weeks, if not months. This will be a dark period for your world, but please trust me about this. It’s better than the alternative. I’ve already sent a subspace SOS signal to Chase Athanatos, and hopefully he will be in time to come and secure this world after the EMP detonation. I deeply apologize for having brought chaos and destruction into a world I only wanted to nurture and protect. I guess it’s true what you humans say: ‘No good deed goes unpunished.’ Godspeed, General.”
It took a few moments for the message to sink in, but upon realization of the consequences, the general’s blood turned cold. He opened the emergency channels. He had to coordinate the post-EMP strategy with the rest of Earth Alliance’s military structure and dispatch his standing orders while he still could.
Miseo was walking towards the downed StarFury when his comm activated.
“This is Oryn. We’ll be there shortly to clean up your mess.”
What the fuck ?
“I don’t need your help. I have everything under control here. Why are you even here? I thought this was my mission.”
“And our scans indicated that your destroyer has been rendered all but useless. The puny humans ran from the scene but we’ll get them later.”
Miseo felt Chris trying to take advantage of his current emotional upheaval but he reacted in time, smashing the boy back inside the wall, applying even more kinetic strength to his hold on him.
Nobody will take this victory away from me.
“I have a human and a Fury half-breed to kill. We’ll talk later,” said Miseo and hung up on his sister.
Bitch! She set me up to fail so she could once more advance her own plans of taking the throne away from me.
Had Oryn hoped that Miseo would be defeated here? Was that why she had been shadowing him? And even if he succeeded, she could kill him and report Miseo’s death to their father, telling him any tale that served her purposes.
Miseo had to clean things up quickly here and find a way to escape with Kvasir one way or another. His own life could depend on it.
He approached the cockpit of the Alliance starfighter and saw the unconscious human inside. He tore the canopy of Daniel’s StarFury as if it was tin foil. He ripped the belt securing the pilot effortlessly and grabbed him by the skull. He walked towards Chris, holding Daniel in front of him.
“Please don’t hurt him, I beg you!” pleaded Chris, his eyes filling with tears.
“You should have thought of this before you defied me. At least before you die I can teach you one lesson. Who knows, maybe it will be of use to you in your next incarnation: don’t bite off more than you can chew, boy !”
Miseo had only a few seconds before Oryn’s ship arrived. A few minutes at best before she came down here herself to finish what she had started in the throne room on Erevos.
Miseo started applying pressure to Daniel’s cranium when he saw Chris close his tear-filled eyes.
Oh, hell no!
“Open your eyes! Watch what you have done!”
But Chris kept his eyes closed. Miseo reached with his mind and forced the boy’s eyelids to snap open and directed his eyeballs towards Daniel’s head about to be crushed.
“That’s better. Time to say goodbye to your friend here. I’m afraid his time has come.”
When Kvasir came around, his head and back were throbbing with intense pain. The slightest movement sent a series of pain waves traveling throughout his body. Everything around him looked destroyed, and he could see even more damage down the long hall that led to the landing bay.
He crawled back towards the nearest console and turned on the video feeds. Most of the holo-cameras had been damaged or destroyed but one was still working, albeit with much interference, making the holo-video blink and jitter. A Fury was walking towards a starfighter that had crash-landed inside the bay. The man, who had probably attacked him from behind, decided Kvasir, was talking to someone.
Kvasir logged into the communication hub of the base and looked for the signal. He had programmed the base to record any signal, so he wouldn’t miss any, even when sleeping. He had rarely received any signals in this part of space, thanks in part to the eternity cannon.
Short-range sensors showed a couple of massive Fury starships on their way to the base. The signal was emanating from these. Kvasir ran his encryption-breaking algorithm and heard the conversation between a female Fury and the one in the base.
His blood froze. Things were looking bleak and the ship that had helped him earlier was no longer in orbit. He needed to do something. While he had hated being a prisoner in this place for so many thousands of years, it was better than being tortured, killed, or worse, by Furies.
How the hell are there any Furies left? Someone must have put an Olympian inside the Athero Portal.
“This is bad,” he said to himself.
His mind raced. What could he do? And then it hit him. He had finished working on reversing the effects of the eternity weapon just a few weeks ago. His hope was to unfreeze one of the Star Alliance’s smaller ships and ask them to rescue him from this prison in exchange for unfreezing the rest of the fleet. But his first attempt liquefied the ship, killing everyone on board.
Kvasir had finished working on the necessary modifications to his functions, to avoid another tragedy. Kvasir was a scientist, and he considered nothing worse than taking the lives of innocent bystanders. That’s why he had been reticent to try the reverse of the weapon a second time, even if hundreds of simulations had shown he had fixed the initial issues with his design.
Desperate times called for desperate measures, so he loaded the latest version of the firmware into the eternity cannon and brought the software online. His finger stopped an inch away from the fire button. It stood there for a few seconds, shaking, while beads of sweat appeared on his forehead. Kvasir closed his eyes and swallowed hard before letting his finger fall onto the button.
19
C edric heard metallic noises in the hallway. His heart was still beating strongly. He was in shock from Gaia 2 nearly crushing his windpipe a few minutes earlier.
Still, he felt compelled to take a look. He approached the doorway and peered cautiously into the corridor.
Four battle droids where engaged in a terrible battle. Three against one. Gaia’s three droids were battling the one controlled by Gaia 2.
Cedric wished he could help, but if three battle droids couldn’t bring her down, what chance did he have? Then he saw the markings on the door next to where they were fighting. Engraved on the copper plate was “Magnetic Resonance Imagery.” An idea formed in his mind.
Miseo looked at Chris with a large grin. He was about to teach the boy a lesson; his last one, in fact. Miseo had to admit that the boy was a formidable enemy for his age. If he had inverted his tactics and fired the massive energy fireball after the man he was about to kill had fired his missiles, it might even have worked.
That’s why he wouldn’t take any chances. Once this insect was crushed, he would deal with the half-breed boy. He couldn’t let him live another day so he could return for a rematch. Like most Furies, Miseo liked the idea of a challenge. But he had a dreadful feeling that his position amongst the Furies was about to take a turn for the worse, so the fewer enemies intent on killing him the better.
The human awoke and flailed his arms and legs. Miseo used kinetic energy to paralyze him.
“Chris! Please help me,” said Daniel.
Chris’ eyes were filled with tears. “I’m sorry, Daniel, I can’t move. I used too much power.” Chris was unable to look away.
“Good,” said Miseo, “you’re conscious. This will be even more fun. Daniel, is it?”
“What is it to you, coward?” answered Daniel defiantly.
“Nothing really. I’ll have forgotten your name by the time your head is but a bloody pulp inside my hand.”
“Then shut the fuck up and get it over with!”
“Any last words to your friend over there? Don’t worry, he’s next.”
“Keep fighting till the end, Chris. And don’t blame yourself. This is not your fault! You hear me?”
“Oh, but it is,” interrupted Miseo. “It’s entirely his fault. Now that you’ve said your goodbyes, I’m afraid it’s time for you to die.”
Miseo started applying progressive pressure to Daniel’s cranium. Daniel screamed so loud from the pain that it resonated all around them. Little by little Miseo broke Daniel’s skull bones. Blood flowed from where Miseo applied pressure.
“Almost there. One more inch of pressure and your head will explode like a pumpkin, which will be the last thing the boy will ever see— ”
But Miseo never finished his sentence. He was catapulted by an invisible force and crashed a few yards away from Chris’ concrete prison. With the kinetic hold gone, Chris extricated himself from the wall.
Miseo’s head was ringing.
If that’s Oryn, there will be hell to pay!
He rose back to his feet and that’s when he saw them.
The launching bay was filled with golden light for a brief instant as Ares teleported Chase inside. Chase saw Daniel being nearly killed by Miseo. He reacted instantly and teleported behind him and catapulted the Fury away with a powerful knee strike.
His son was against a wall, not far from where he had sent Miseo crashing. He bore many wounds and was paralyzed by a strong kinetic bond. Chase countered the bond with a single thought and Chris climbed out of the wall and back to his feet. His eyes were filled with tears, and Chase felt rage build up within his soul.
Yet, he had control over his emotions and would defer their release for just a moment, while Miseo finally met the ending he deserved. Nobody could hurt Chris and live to tell the tale.
Chase turned to Ares. “Get Kvasir while I heal Chris and Daniel. Then teleport them all back to the Hope . His mother will want to know about Chris. I can feel her worry even at this distance.”
Chase sent Sarah a telepathic message. Our son is fine. I’m sending him back to you shortly.
Thank you, Chase. Perhaps he should help you defeat Miseo. There is strength in numbers.
Chris’ energy is pretty much depleted. I can deal with Miseo on my own. Where are you now?
The fleet arrived. My god, Chase, these Olympian ships are magnificent! We’re on our way back to you now.
Alright, see you soon.
Chase walked towards Daniel’s collapsed body. Blood flowed from many open wounds and broken skull bones. He had lost consciousness. Chase put his hand on his forehead and started healing him.
“Not so fast!” shouted Miseo, already flying towards Chase with murder in his eyes.
Without even bothering to look at his incoming foe, Chase used his free hand to fire an ultra-fast fireball that exploded in Miseo’s face, sending him tumbling back where he came from.
“I’ll be with you in a minute. Pray to whatever gods you believe in. Your time is up, Miseo.” Chase’s tone was calm and serene.
Daniel’s wounds were healed. Chris ran to him and fell on his knees. He looked at his father, wiping his tears.
“Thank you, son. I’m sure you did everything you could. I’ll take over now.”
Chris’ eyes widened.
“Something wrong, Chris?”
“No, but I . . . I thought you’d be mad at me. I almost got Daniel killed. If you had arrived a second later, he would have been dead.”
“What matters is I arrived on time. And I know you did all you could. Holding your own against Miseo is no small feat. I’m very proud of you, son. Once we’re back home we’ll train some more and soon you’ll be an even better warrior than me.”
Chris’ face lit up.
Daniel blinked slowly a few times. He turned his gaze to Chris and then Chase. “Never . . . gets . . . old. Thank god Chris is alive.”
Chase chuckled.
“What’s so funny?” said Daniel, his voice still weak.
“Chris was expressing the same concerns about you just now.”
Three fireballs approached their position fast. Chris jumped out and extended his hand in front of him to counter the attacks. But Chase was faster. With a single thought he stopped the fireballs in midair. Another nudge sent them back towards a bloody-faced Miseo. All three fireballs exploded and engulfed Miseo in flames.
Ares came running with someone Chase deduced was the Asgardian, Kvasir.
“Take them back on board the Hope and come get me afterwards. I’ll only be a minute.”
“I might take longer than that,” answered Ares. “While my powers are back, I still need a few minutes between teleporting sessions.”
“That’s alright, Ares. Worse comes to worst I’ll try teleporting myself by homing in on my son’s life energy. The Hope should be near enough by now. Once you’re back make sure to brief Athena about what we’ve discussed. I want one of these Fury ships disabled and not destroyed. We need to learn more about their tech.”
“Very well, Chase. I’d tell you to be careful but I think there’s no need.”
Chase nodded, placed his hand on his son’s head affectionately and then hugged him, healing most of his wounds at the same time.
“I’ll see you soon, son.”
“Be careful, Dad.”
Daniel and Chris touched Ares and they teleported away. A second later Miseo unleashed an animalistic roar. The area around him filled with his large crimson aura.
“I’ve been waiting for this moment since we last fought,” said Miseo, blood spilling from his mouth as he spoke.
“That might be the only thing we have in common, as I’ve also been looking forward to this. You should have run while you had the chance. You’ve hurt my son and almost killed someone I consider my brother. I’m not letting you live so you can hurt more of the people I love.”
“Then let’s get this over with,” spat Miseo.
Miseo fired a multitude of fireballs towards Chase, who simply teleported out of the way, letting Miseo waste whatever energy he had left. His energy pool was still strong at seventy percent or so, but that would never be enough. And Chase had learned from his own defeat by that Fury. He would not make the same mistake of wasting precious energy that Miseo could use to replenish his own.
Fool me once . . .
Chase teleported behind Miseo and sent him flying with a powerful strike of his elbow. Miseo crashed onto the concrete floor face first, the skin of one cheek ripped away as he skidded forward.
When he got up, Chase could feel his opponent’s hatred but also fear. The skin on his face had partly been burnt too and his cheekbone was exposed.
“That must hurt,” said Chase with a grin.
“I’ll kill you!”
“I’d love to see you try. But let me ask you, what are you waiting for exactly?”
Miseo lost control and let his rage consume his soul.
So much for Miseo’s lecture on controlling one’s emotions during their last fight. But Miseo was truly afraid now, and people tend not to think clearly when they’re afraid.
“You reek of fear, Miseo, and you’re right to. Somewhere inside that head of yours, you already know what awaits you.”
Miseo screamed, dark-crimson lightning sizzling all around his ever-growing aura. He pushed himself to the maximum and Chase could feel it.
Chase cracked his neck bones and smiled.
Miseo raised both hands to the ceiling and a dark and purple fireball expanded for yards above his hands. It looked more like a black hole than an energy-based attack. It grew in size with every second.
I can’t believe he’s making the same mistake I made when I fought him.
After twenty seconds the black-hole fireball was ready. It was nowhere near as big as the one that General Arkoolis had fired at the city on Droxia, but the destructive energy contained in it could vaporize this planetoid and perhaps anything orbiting around it in the process.
“If this explodes,” said Chase calmly, “we’ll both die.”
“Oh no, Laiyos, there’s only one Fury dying today.”
“You’re right about that, even if you’re wrong about which Fury it will be.”
“Enough! Die!” screamed Miseo as he launched his attack towards Chase.
Chase turned Ultra Fury with a single thought, his inner energy exploding in the form of a bright orange aura that looked like a star going supernova. His purple irises turned into two brightly burning suns as his hair shot upwards, dancing in the light of infinite power.
Large chunks of concrete were ripped from all around him and started rotating around Chase like planets in the gravity pull of a star.
With absolute calm Chase extended one hand forward, palm slightly open, just before the massive attack arrived.
The attack stopped instantly. Chase didn’t even flinch. Miseo’s eyes grew wide. Chase started siphoning every ounce of power in Miseo’s impressive attack. In less than ten seconds the black-hole sphere shrank from gigantic to nothingness.
“That’s . . . not . . . possible,” mumbled Miseo, letting himself fall to his knees.
“Oh, but it is.”
Chase looked at the dark energy emanating from his blocking forearm. He had no intention of keeping that hateful energy inside his own body.
“Are you familiar with the expression ‘return to sender’, Miseo?”
Chase pointed his index finger towards Miseo and unleashed a continuous beam of black energy that traversed Miseo’s armor, shattering it in the process, and went all the way through the Fury’s left shoulder. Miseo’s expression froze in fear and shock at the amount of pain pulsating through his body.
After the first ray of black energy dissipated, Miseo held his burnt shoulder, his other arm trembling. Chase could tell from the look in his enemy’s eyes that he knew his end was near.
Miseo struggled but remained on his feet, still holding his shoulder.
Chase took a step forward and pointed towards another part of Miseo’s body with his finger and unleashed another ray of pure black energy. This one passed through Miseo’s right thigh causing him to scream in pain.
“Who . . . ?” Miseo had trouble finding the energy to even speak. “Who the fuck are you?”
The intensity and flare in Chase’s eye tripled. “I’m death incarnate as far as you’re concerned, and I’m going to kill every last one of you.”
Chase fired another black discharge of energy, and another, and another still.
He had reduced this once formidable enemy to nothing more than a broken body, waiting to be taken out of his misery. But Chase was in no hurry. Now that he had absorbed Miseo’s destructive power, he could take his time sending it back to him, one deadly blow at a time.
On board the Star Alliance destroyer Victory , Admiral Spiros Zenakis felt as though he was waking up from a hundred days of slumber.
What just happened?
“Report!” he said loudly.
But most of his crew were also disoriented and it took them a little longer to get their bearings.
“Scanning,” said his first officer finally. “I . . . I don’t understand these readings.”
“Can you put what’s going on outside on screen? And watch out for that cannon that was trapping our fleet earlier.”
The first officer turned on the main holo-screen. Rays of yellow light were hitting other ships that were encased in that strange-looking resin material and, upon impact, the resin melted and the ships’ engines came back on line. It was happening all around them.
“Were we trapped by this weapon before? I remember we were hit. Why are we being freed?”
“A better question yet,” said the first officer. “When are we? The computer is reporting a time discrepancy.”
“Calculate the time difference based on star positioning, Commander.”
The first officer entered multiple commands on his holo-interface. His eyes grew wide.
“How long has it been, Commander?”
“This can’t be. Thirteen months, Admiral.”
“That would explain why we feel the way we do.”
Something beeped on the first officer’s console.
“Now what?” asked Admiral Zenakis.
“Short-range sensors have picked up two enemy signatures nearby.”
“Obsidian?”
“No, sir. But it can’t be.”
“Commander! What is it?”
“They’re . . . they’re Furies, sir,” said the commander, his trembling voice barely making it to the admiral.
“That’s impossible. The Furies are gone.”
“We’re receiving an incoming transmission from a ship called the Hope , sir. It says it’s from the Earth Alliance, but they are using a Star Alliance cypher.”
“On screen.”
The admiral rose from his captain’s chair as the screen changed from a view of the rest of his fleet being unthawed to the face of a beautiful woman with fiery crimson hair and emerald eyes. She was stunning.
“This is Commander Sarah Kepler of the Earth Alliance destroyer Hope . Most of my crew is formerly Star Alliance.”
“I’m Admiral Zenakis of the Victory . What can I do for you? And please tell me my computers have gone haywire because of whatever happened to our ships. We’re detecting Fury ships not far from our position.”
“That’s why I’m calling you, Admiral. And no, your computers are working perfectly. I’ll explain further—and I’m sure you’ll look forward to learning more about what happened directly from Commodore Saroudis—once we’ve dealt with these ships.”
The admiral smiled. “Commodore Saroudis? That old sailor got promoted? Good for him. I’m listening, Commander. How can we be of assistance?”
“We don’t have much time so I’ll make this short. The Furies resurfaced a few months ago and are wreaking havoc everywhere in the universe. What we thought to be the last remnant of the Star Alliance came to my world, Earth. We allied ourselves and created the Earth Alliance. We’ve been fighting them ever since. These two Fury ships are immensely more powerful than yours. How should I put it?”
“Bluntly, Commander,” said the admiral, his voice sharp.
“Alright, your ships are no match for these two destroyers. But your numbers should allow you to keep them occupied until we arrive with reinforcements. But right now you’re nearer to these ships than we are. Please make sure not to fire on the planetoid around which they’ll soon enter orbit.”
“Why’s that, Commander?”
“Well, let’s just say the father of my child is occupied fighting a Fury, after rescuing an Asgardian we believe holds the key to helping us defeat Fury technology.”
“That’s a lot to take in, Commander. Why don’t you just dispatch me with orders? I’m looking forward to a full debrief with Commodore Saroudis once this is over.”
“Just keep them occupied, Admiral. Try to minimize losses on your side. We could really use more ships, and I know a lot of former Star Alliance personnel will be glad to meet more survivors.”
“Very well, Commander, we’ll give them hell.”
“Oh, and one more thing.”
Admiral Zenakis nodded.
“We need to capture one of these ships to reverse-engineer their tech and adapt our weaponry.”
“Very well, but there’s one thing I don’t understand, Commander. You need to get one of these ships? What size force are you bringing in? And will it be enough? If our thirty-plus destroyers are no match for these Furies, what are you bringing along with you?”
“Olympian destroyers.”
Admiral Zenakis heard the words, but it took a moment to digest them.
“Like I said, Admiral,” said Sarah, not waiting for him to answer, “it’s a really long story.”
“Very well, Commander, see you on the other side.”
Sarah saluted the admiral, who saluted back.
The admiral returned to the captain’s chair and opened a channel to the fleet.
“You heard the lady. Red alert! Vector us towards these Fury ships and fire at will the moment we’re in range.”
20
C edric ran back inside the room and remotely accessed the controls of the hospital on his holo-console. He hacked into the MRI room systems, ran a few scans and saw no one in the vicinity of the four droids currently fighting outside.
One of the droids smashed through a wall not far from him and crashed at his feet. Its eyes blinked madly for a few seconds, its fingers twitched and multiple sparks fired from its neck before the light in its artificial eyes died off.
“I guess that makes only two against one,” said Cedric out loud.
He needed to hurry. He analyzed the schematics of the MRI machine, looking for a way to remotely activate it and boost its magnetic efficiency. If he managed to do this, he could use the magnetic force from the MRI machine to first attract Gaia 2 towards it, and then boost it even further to turn her into a recycled tin can.
But that could kill Gaia. He realized she was monitoring what he was doing when a text message blinked on his screen. “Don’t mind me, just do it, Cedric! We need her dealt with before her reinforcements arrive.”
Cedric quickly typed an answer. “What’s their ETA?”
“Fifteen minutes for the first one. In an hour an entire army of battle bots will be crawling these walls and killing everything that moves.”
“That’s just great! So what difference does it make if I kill that one Gaia 2?”
“It could give us the opportunity to get Spiros out of here. On second thought, it’s best if one of my droids survives. Wait exactly fifty-seven seconds and then activate the MRI at max power. I’ve already reprogrammed the power distribution to a level that will crush the battle bots. All you need to do is make sure it’s fired up.”
“Alright then. Good luck.”
“To the both of us.”
Cedric took his pack of cigarettes out of his pocket but it was empty.
“Of course,” he said, crushing the empty pack in his hand.
Chase kept firing all of the dark energy he had assimilated earlier. Miseo had so many wounds, his armor had been completely shattered and Chase could already see death in his empty gaze. Eventually, Miseo stopped screaming. Chase suspected that the Fury was no longer registering any additional pain.
Chase had depleted almost all of the dark energy. He had enough juice stored to fire up one more time. He walked towards the shadow of his once strongest opponent and stopped only five yards from him. Chase aimed his finger towards Miseo’s forehead.
“Goodbye, Miseo, you won’t be missed.”
As Chase fired the last ray of energy, something happened. A wall of ice appeared in front of Miseo and reflected the attack back towards Chase. He managed to dodge it by a hair.
Chase turned around and saw a female Fury walking towards him.
“My brother is a pain in the ass, but he’s still my brother.”
“I know the feeling well.”
“Right, Argos was once your nemesis and has now sided with your band of pathetic rebels. Any chance he’s around? Bringing back his head on a platter would make my father really happy.”
“He’s not here, and even if he was, I wouldn’t let you lay a finger on him, no matter how much I used to hate him.”
“Who said you’d have a choice, Laiyos?”
“My name is Chase.”
“Not your birth name, but whatever. Laiyos, Chase, you’ll die just the same since your head is as valuable as your brother’s to me.”
“I see. And what would your name be?”
“You can call me Oryn.”
Then it hit Chase. The woman in front of him, threatening to bring his head back to her so-called father, was Zeus’ daughter. Chase needed to de-escalate the tension that was quickly building up in the room.
Ares teleported into the room at the female Fury’s back.
Wait up, Ares, I need to see where this leads. Any chance you could go somewhere else in the base?
Why? It’s not like I can help you fight her anyway.
Please, Ares, it’s related to your father’s request. I can’t talk to her if you’re listening.
Why? I don’t understand all the cloak-and-dagger attitude, Chase.
Ares, please trust me on this, okay?
Whatever.
Ares teleported away.
“Where did the ghost Olympian go?” asked Oryn.
Chase raised an eyebrow.
“You didn’t think I sensed him teleporting at my back?”
“It doesn’t matter. I need to talk to you.”
“That’s a shame, Chase , because I’m not interested in hearing what you have to say.”
Oryn’s aura shone a glacial blue and the temperature in the vicinity dropped twenty degrees. Her eyes shone a bright shade of cyan.
“No, seriously, it’s about your father,” said Chase.
She walked towards Chase. With each step, an area of about fifty square feet of concrete floor froze around her on contact with her feet.
I wonder what made her as cold as ice, literally.
“Please, Oryn, just lis—” But Chase’s plea was interrupted by Oryn firing a cold ray of white energy at him. He jumped out of the way at the last second and her attack hit the ice wall she had erected before to protect her brother. It cracked upon impact, revealing an unconscious, barely breathing Miseo.
Sarah took Chris in her arms the moment he entered the bridge. She checked him for wounds. He was looking fine but she still felt compelled to give him the once over.
“I’m fine, Mom. Please, stop. It’s embarrassing.”
“He’s two weeks old and he’s embarrassed already.”
“Who are you talking to?”
“Myself— Never mind. How’s your father?”
“I don’t know, but he seemed to have the situation completely under control.”
“I can confirm that,” added Daniel. “Miseo doesn’t stand a chance.”
“And yet he hasn’t returned.”
“I’m sure he’s got a good reason. When will we arrive in orbit?”
“In less than seven minutes. The admiral’s forces will engage the enemy in less than two.”
“I can’t believe that old wolf Zenakis is still alive.”
“Old wolf? You know him?”
“Not personally, although I’ve seen him a few times addressing our troops.”
“How good is he?”
“As good as they get. Why?”
“I really want us to minimize the damage to his fleet. We need those ships.”
“You’re assuming he will willingly give up his command to Commodore Saroudis. First admiral is the highest rank in the Star Alliance military. He could become all of our bosses, and he could decide not to join the Earth Alliance.”
“That hadn’t occurred to me, but surely he’ll consider it.”
“Oh, I’m sure he’ll consider it, but the first admiral has a reputation for being a hard ass.”
“Right now all that matters is stopping the Furies, grabbing one of their ships and putting the seed of doubt in their minds for once. The Olympian ships showing up should definitely rattle them and, hopefully, they are the ones with the necessary firepower to bring one of the ships down before they have time to escape to hyperspace.”
“You should ask Athena if they have any anti-jumping field technology. If they do they could make sure they don’t leave.”
“I’ll do that. Thanks for the suggestion, Daniel. How are you doing?”
“Better than before Chase showed up, that’s for sure.”
“That bad, huh?”
“Does the phrase ‘in the nick of time’ mean anything to you?”
“It does. I think we have things under control here if you want to get some rest. Same goes for you, Chris.”
“I’m staying,” said Chris. “You might need me to remote-pilot more StarFuries.”
“I’m hoping we won’t have to, but I’ll gladly use your help, if needed.”
“I, on the other hand,” said Daniel, “think I will take you up on your offer and get some rest. Wake me up if things don’t go as planned, though.”
Sarah nodded.
First Admiral Zenakis brought his fleet about in an offensive formation. The Victory led the charge against the two Fury super-destroyers and soon a barrage of laser and torpedo fire illuminated the darkness of space around the small planetoid.
The Fury destroyers responded in kind and many of the Star Alliance first-fleet ships took heavy damage from the first pass. The gap in the level of technology between the thirty-plus Star Alliance ships and the two Fury super- destroyers was more than evident. It would have taken one hundred of these ships to hope for a chance to take them down. But First Admiral Zenakis was one hell of a strategist. He used smart maneuvers to always have weakened or damaged ships covered by those in the fleet whose shields were still in the green.
In less than three minutes of engagement, the Star Alliance was clearly losing this battle, but they managed to keep the Fury forces engaged, effectively buying the reinforcements time to arrive on the scene and tip the balance of the battle.
The entire ship rocked as multiple enemy torpedoes impacted with its shields. A small fire erupted on the Victory ’s bridge.
“Admiral! We’ve lost ventral shields,” said the first officer.
“Full rotation on axis, divert all power to shields. Keep firing at will. Everything we’ve got.”
“Sir, at this rate we’ll deplete all our ordnance in two minutes, and for what? Their shields are regenerating faster than we can tax them. We can’t win this!”
“We don’t have to win this, Michalis, just hold them off another handful of seconds.”
A large explosion nearby filled the bridge with bright yellow light for a brief instant.
“Report!” shouted Admiral Zenakis.
“We’ve lost the Penelope , sir.”
Admiral Zenakis gritted his teeth. His good friend Captain Hadoxopoulos was captaining that ship.
Farewell, my friend.
He looked at the countdown on the holo-screen, which displayed the mad exchange of fire between Star Alliance and Fury ships. The scale was unreal. It was nothing but a blurry chaos of laser fire, missiles and torpedoes firing every which way. The countdown was at twenty-five seconds. They only needed to hold off just a little longer.
Admiral Zenakis opened a channel to the fleet.
“Evasive pattern Theta-6. Do whatever you can to avoid being targeted and shot down.”
The ships in the fleet dispersed in a way that made it difficult for the Fury destroyers to target them efficiently. They needed to pick a target, maneuver towards it but, in doing so, exposed themselves to more fire from the Star Alliance, as well as costing precious time.
Then multiple bright blue and green flashes of light appeared on both the holo-image and radars.
“They’ve arrived, Admiral, twelve ships. Two resembling our own design but still emitting a different power signature, the Hope and the Euphoreon , and ten massive Olympian warships.”
“Let’s have a look at them,” said the admiral.
He rose from his chair and looked at the impressive Olympian warships. They were out of this world.
“My god, they’re beautiful,” said the admiral.
The Olympian ships opened fire on the Furies. With the added firepower from Zenakis’ own fleet, the enemy’s shields were now draining at a much faster rate.
“Offensive pattern Gamma-5. Let’s finish this!”
Chase took a defensive stance before contacting Ares telepathically.
I might need a pick up soon. Stand by for my signal, and act fast. If Miseo was able to stop you in this form, perhaps his sister can as well.
Very well, Chase.
Chase could feel Ares’ frustration at being kept in the dark, but Chase couldn’t think about this now, and he couldn’t give his mentor an explanation either.
Chase felt the ships outside engaged in a frenzied battle. He also felt the arrival of both Sarah and Chris. With the Olympian fleet in the mix, he was sure Sarah would complete her mission. Now he needed to complete the one Zeus had given him.
Contacting Ares telepathically just moments before had given Chase an idea.
Listen to me, Oryn, I need to talk to you about your real father!
That seemed to get her attention for a split second, but then she fired bright-blue icy fireballs at Chase with great speed and proficiency. Chase dodged them all but the last passed closely by his right cheek and he felt the lower half of his face on that side grow cold. He touched it and it was hard as stone. He had lost feeling in that area as well.
This adversary was not to be taken lightly. Her ability to use ice made her a deadly opponent. One Chase would have to watch out for.
“My father is Supreme Commander Arakan! And, in time, like everyone else in this universe, you’ll bow to him. That is, if you manage to avoid being transformed into a Fury icicle today.”
She was a Fury, alright. The same rage Chase knew all too well seemed to flow in her veins. But she was also an Olympian. A Fury-Olympian hybrid. She could either become a powerful ally or a very dangerous nemesis.
“No! Zeus is your real father!”
Oryn stopped the kick she was about to launch at Chase and her expression turned grave.
When Chase realized she wouldn’t answer, he kept going. “The man you think is your father killed your own mother because she had an affair with Zeus. Arakan couldn’t stand the idea of Zeus, an Olympian, having fathered someone he had thought was his own daughter.”
Oryn’s aura grew so strongly that the entire launching bay was now freezing up, a thin, shiny and reflective cover of ice coating everything. The lights from the battle outside reflected diamonds all around them.
“And that’s not the worst of it!” added Chase.
“You’re lying,” said Oryn.
“I wish I was. Arakan sent back pieces of your mother to Zeus, one by one.”
Oryn’s eyes flickered between a bright cyan and blinding white. Small tears formed at the corners of her eyes but were instantly crystalized into spiky ice formations resembling eyelashes.
“Do not speak another word,” said Oryn, her voice absolute-zero cold.
“I’m not lying. Arakan isn’t your father. We don’t need to be enemies, you and I. Zeus asked me to get you back to him. He misses his daughter. Why do you think Furies and Olympians hate each other so badly? It’s all because of this!”
“I said SHUT UP!”
Oryn dropped to one knee and struck the floor in a fit of rage. Before he knew it, Chase’s legs were covered by a mound of ice all the way up to his knees. Trapped, he lost all feeling in his legs almost instantly.
Chase tried to push his aura further in an attempt to melt the ice, but it wasn’t working.
Dammit!
Oryn still had her gaze upon the floor. She looked deeply disturbed. After a few seconds she rose to her feet and threw Chase a murderous look. She walked towards him slowly. She concentrated her entire aura around her right forearm and a thick layer of ice formed into a large, shiny and sharp blade.
“You should have kept your mouth shut, Fury. I will not listen to any of your lies and they will cost you your life.”
Chase panicked. He needed to get the hell out of here fast. He tried calling for Ares, but it was as if the ice was messing with his entire being. Even his thoughts seemed to have frozen in time.
Ares? Chris? Argos? Anyone? Can you hear me?
By the time Oryn was upon Chase, her icy blade was long enough that it reached the floor, even though Oryn was holding her arm at a forty-five-degree angle.
A sensation Chase hadn’t felt in a long while permeated his soul. Fear. His heartbeat had slowed down because of the cold, but each pulse was strong and radiated a pain through his chest.
“You can help stop this senseless war,” said Chase.
The temperature was so cold now that it hurt just to speak. An increasingly thicker layer of ice was now rising and covering the rest of Chase’s body.
“Don’t you understand?” pleaded Chase.
“I understand that you have fabricated lies in order to deceive me. And for your trouble, I will kill you.”
Oryn assumed a striking stance with her massive ice blade and shot Chase one last sub-zero stare.
Cedric brought up the holo-cam feed from the hall, showing the battle droids beating the shit out of one another.
The last Gaia bot was losing this battle. Gaia 2 grabbed the robot’s arm and locked it behind her back before catapulting her counterpart droid away with a powerful kick. Gaia’s arm ripped from her droid and it fell unceremoniously onto the already blood-covered hospital floor. Sparks and oily liquids shot from her exposed shoulder.
A message appeared on Cedric’s console. “I have Spiros. Do it now!”
Cedric brought up the MRI control panel and, when he was about to hit the activation button, his holo-console flickered madly and the human avatar face of Gaia 2 filled the screen.
“You have lost. It’s only a matter of time. If you press that button, I’ll kill you and all your friends in ways too horrible for you to even contemplate. I have better plans for you but you must obey me.”
Her eyes pulsated red. It scared the shit out of Cedric.
“Do it now! Ced—” the droid shouted from the hall before its voice turned into a garbled electronic noise of dying circuitry.
Cedric froze. What should he do? It seemed no matter what they did Gaia 2 was gaining on them, infecting more systems. She would soon control this entire planet. Cedric had no doubt she lied about having plans for him. He wouldn’t want to work for her anyway. Better death than slavery. But the cold, dark fear of great physical pain didn’t help him make a decision.
He heard the metallic steps of the Gaia 2 droid coming his way. He closed his eyes and activated the MRI machine. Everything around him trembled. His holo-console was behaving erratically but he still had a visual of the holo-feed at the top right corner. It showed the Gaia 2 battle droid being smashed against the wall of the MRI room that was no longer shielded.
Equipment from all around flew off its shelves and punched holes on its way out towards the powerful magnetic field.
A muffled, dying digital voice resonated inside the room. “You’re going to regret this. By only delaying the inevitable, you have sealed your own fate.”
Cedric swallowed hard as a shiver traveled down his spine. Before the holo-cam feed died off, Gaia 2 was still struggling against the magnetic field intent on crushing her like a soda can. She fired up her repulsors and used them as thrusters in a futile attempt to escape her fate.
But then something happened. Before he understood how or why, Cedric felt multiple metallic appendages pierce his skin and invade his body. The next sensation was that ants were crawling inside his brain and he could do nothing to stop them.
He looked at his arms and legs in horror. All sorts of metallic and electronic equipment were attached to him; wires sprang from them and inserted themselves inside his skin. He tried to move but his body wouldn’t obey. He tried shouting but nothing happened.
A few seconds later a voice echoed in his mind.
“You’re mine now!”
21
C hase still couldn’t move. When Oryn launched the point of her icy blade and aimed it towards his heart, time crawled to a stop and his life flashed before his eyes. He saw Sarah, her beautiful crimson hair flowing in the wind, giving him a smile that warmed his heart. He saw the eyes of his son sparkle, and he heard his laughter. Last, he saw his best friend in the whole world, his brother, Daniel, waving goodbye at the end of a long day, a memory of their time at the academy.
Had Chase’s time come? Was it the end? It couldn’t be. Things were getting better. He could finalize the alliance with the Olympians. He could perhaps even bring the Asgardians into the fold. All of this was at his fingertips. But he was frozen. A cold force took a stronger hold over his life.
Chase tried to move. He reached for his powers but they were no longer there to call upon. They were out of reach, a million miles away.
The tip of Oryn’s icy blade was getting closer now. Then, a discharge of adrenaline hit Chase and time resumed its pace. Chase closed his eyes instinctively.
“Chase!” he heard out loud. It was followed by a pained scream.
He knew this voice.
When he re-opened his eyes, he didn’t understand what he was seeing at first. Argos stood in front of him, his shoulder pierced by Oryn’s icy blade. He held the rest of the blade with his hands. His crimson aura had turned orange but it was flickering in intensity.
“Chase,” he said with intense pain, “if you’re going to do something, now . . . would be the time.”
The heat generated by Argos’ energy at such close range warmed Chase a little. Or was it the realization that his nemesis had just sacrificed himself to save him that bolstered all that warmth back into his heart?
It mattered not. Chase felt his power come back to him all at once. He entered Ultra Fury mode in a cascade of exploding waves of his own aura radiating all around them. It shattered the icy prison restraining him and the icy blade. Oryn screamed as her arm caught fire. Argos collapsed on the ground. He had lost consciousness.
The rage that image provoked in Chase’s heart unleashed another wave of exploding energy in a powerful shockwave that sent Oryn flying backwards for a hundred yards and crashing into the farthest wall.
I’m sorry, Chase , said Ares in his mind. I eavesdropped on your conversation with Oryn. If what you say is true, then we have to get out of here. You can probably defeat her now that you’ve regained control over your powers, but we can’t take that chance. She is our only hope for a lasting alliance with my people.
A flaming dragon of orange energy danced all around Chase. The intensity of the heat melted the ice inside the entire landing bay.
But Chase didn’t feel like listening right now. He wanted to unleash that dragon upon Oryn and have it burn her straight to hell.
“Chase!” screamed Ares.
Oryn’s cold stare had now turned into horror and fear.
“Get us out of here,” she said after touching a control on her wrist armor.
Before Chase could unleash his attack upon her, multiple red circles of light encased her body and the next instant she was gone. And so was Miseo.
Chase exited Ultra Fury mode. He checked on Argos and healed his wounds. Ares put his hands on their shoulders and teleported them away.
When Chase, Argos and Ares appeared on the bridge of the Hope , Sarah rose from her chair and took Chase in her arms.
He kissed her hair.
“What’s our status?” he asked.
“They’re pinned down,” said Sarah. “We’re having trouble disabling only one of the ships. It’s possible both will be destroyed if the battle continues.”
“Why haven’t they jumped into hyperspace yet?”
“Athena’s flagship is emitting a jump-interdiction field.”
“Let them go.”
“What?” said Sarah, shocked.
“Now. Trust me, we need to let them go or our alliance with the Olympians will be a short one.”
“You’re not making any sense, Chase.”
When Chase realized it would take too long to explain he reached for Athena with his mind.
This is Chase. I don’t have time to explain right now, but please do as I say. Zeus entrusted me with your ships so this is a direct order. Drop the jump-interdiction field right away.
Athena didn’t even bother answering Chase and soon the two Fury super- destroyers jumped into hyperspace.
“What the hell did you do?” screamed Sarah. “We had them. For once we could have sent a message of fear by destroying their ships.”
“Calm down, Sarah, they turned tail and ran, there’s your message. I wish I could give you the reason behind my actions, but trust that it was good. On board one of these ships was someone that could be the key to the entire cementing of this new alliance. That’s all I can say.”
Sarah’s eyes turned cold.
Chase knew it wasn’t fair to leave them in the dark, and he already had to deal with the fact that Ares had eavesdropped and was now aware of information that could kill the new alliance with the Olympians before it began. He was mad at his mentor but, then again, if he hadn’t listened, he couldn’t have brought back Argos in time to save his life.
They would have to talk about this betrayal of trust, though. Chase needed to know he could count on his closest friends to obey his requests. Not that he thought he knew better, but with the fate of the entire universe in the balance, what Ares did could never happen again. This time it had worked in their favor, but what about next time?
“Recover the eternity gun and give it to Yanis. I want this technology reverse- engineered. Then set a course for Alpha Prime.”
Cedric had lost virtually all control over his body and most of his thoughts and was now only a witness of things unfolding.
His hands moved on the holo-console at light speed, and soon the MRI turned off. The power in the hospital was shut down except secondary power and it was put on lockdown.
His body exited the room and passed near the MRI. More than half the wall in the room had collapsed and the last Gaia 2 battle bot had been crushed against the MRI machine.
It didn’t matter anymore. Gaia 2 had invaded him now.
I can’t believe I’ve been turned into a borg. This sucks.
I told you there would be consequences , said Gaia 2 inside his mind.
Yeah, right. Like you would have not done this anyway. Fuck you!
Anatomically impossible.
Why are you not just killing me? What’s the point in all this?
I want you to see the fall of your world while you feel helpless to do anything about it. I can’t think of a better punishment for you.
Cedric’s body started to run. Faster than he ever could, in fact. The walls and rooms of the hospital were just a blur. Cedric tried shutting his eyes but even that didn’t work.
When the crazy run ended, Cedric saw familiar faces. The last Gaia battle droid as well as a barely walking Spiros.
At least he woke up. Run away! It’s a trap!
Yet, shouting the words was only happening in his head and his mouth didn’t move an inch. When it did move moments later, the words were not his own.
“I know what you’re up to, Gaia. I won’t let you destroy me.”
“Cedric?”
“He’s still somewhere in there, but I’m afraid you’ll never talk to him again.”
“Give it a rest,” said Gaia. “You don’t have a choice anymore. At any moment I can have the EMP detonate, so back off and let him go.”
“That’s where you’re wrong. I still hold all the cards and have an infinite number of choices I can make to survive. You, however, have none left.”
Something started tickling inside Cedric’s body. It became stronger to the point of discomfort, and soon a bright-blue, shield-looking energy field expanded around him until it engulfed both Gaia and Spiros before flashing and turning red.
“You can no longer send that signal to General Adams. And the EMP will not affect my primary copy on board my ships if he tries to detonate the EMP while the planetary shields are still up. And, by the way, they’re now under my direct control. In less than a day, in fact, this entire planet will be too.”
“Chase will stop you, one way or another. As for my own existence, if it must end, so be it. But please let Spiros go.”
Spiros tried mumbling something but it came out as incomprehensible babbling.
“I see my little gift to your friend has worked. Good luck understanding anything he says. Too bad. You will never know what his last words would have been.”
“Why are you doing this? If you keep killing humans, you’ll wind up having the entire Alliance after you. Consider that in whatever plans you’re computing.”
“Thanks for the advice. I guess that’s where our paths split, forever.”
22
C hase visited Kvasir in med-bay. He expected to see Argos there as well but he was nowhere to be seen.
Kvasir lay on a med-bed. He sat up when he saw Chase approach.
“I hear you’re the one I have to thank for my rescue?” said Kvasir.
“And I thank you for freeing the Alliance First Fleet and Admiral Zenakis’ men.”
“It seemed like a good idea at the time. I was also concerned with my own survival, you know.”
“Nevertheless, you did us a great favor and I need to ask you for one more, I’m afraid.”
“Captain?”
“Call me Chase.”
“Very well, Chase. You have freed me from my prison. I had lost hope that this day would ever come. Whatever you need that is within my power or knowledge to grant, I will gladly do it.”
“That’s good to hear. But do you mind if I ask who imprisoned you?”
“Well, the Asgardian Federation Council, of course.”
That did not sound like a good thing to Chase. His hope that this man would be the bridge to an alliance with the Asgardians seemed less likely now.
“Why?”
“I was banished because of my research. I’m a scientist, you see.”
Chase knew most of this already, but he kept asking questions nonetheless. “What kind of research? In what field?”
“A lot really: interdimensional travel, instant travel, as well as artificial intelligence.”
“That last one could be a precious help to us. We currently have a problem with a sentient AI that has overtaken an entire planet. Earth. I don’t know if you’ve heard of it.”
“Midgard is being attacked by an AI?”
Midgard? Right. Chase remembered that night when Sarah told him about the myths and legends of Nordic mythology.
“Yes, Midgard. We need your help to defeat that AI.”
“I’ll be glad to render any assistance.”
“Thank you, Kvasir. Now I’ll let you rest. We’ll have plenty of time to discuss this further in the coming days.”
After losing contact with the troops in the hospital where Gaia was when she sent her message, General Adams received news of power loss inside the facility. Things must have gone awry but he hadn’t received her signal yet. The planetary EMP manual fire controls had appeared on his screen and it looked like a message was being composed but it had never arrived. The incoming transmission icon had turned red half a second after lighting up.
What should I do?
What if this Gaia 2 had control over their systems? She would find this control and de-activate it. It could happen any second. But the decision to push the button that would send, at least temporarily, the human race back to the Stone Age was not simple.
If it erased both AIs, at least that problem would be gone, forever. He didn’t have another choice. Losing contact with Gaia and her failure to join the rest of her team meant that Gaia 2 had caught up with them. Right now she could be roaming inside Alliance systems and looking to disable that final failsafe.
The choice was evident, and so, with a trembling hand, General Adams pressed the button. Soon after, everything turned dark. Everywhere.
Chase went to Argos’ quarters shortly after sending the fleet into hyperspace towards Alpha Prime. They had to regroup and formulate a plan for freeing Earth. Their last contact was hours ago and something was amiss.
Chase rang the bell and Argos opened and gestured him inside.
“You should be in the med-bay, Argos.”
“Is that concern I’m sensing in your voice?”
“Unlikely. Still, I wanted to thank you for saving my life.”
“Technically, Ares did. If he hadn’t told me what was going on and teleported me there, I couldn’t have intervened.”
“Yeah and taking the ice blade instead of me, what was that? A coincidence?”
“Let’s just say I was left with very few options upon my late arrival on the scene.”
Chase smiled. He was surprised how far Argos was willing to go not to accept Chase’s gratitude for his actions. But it mattered not. He still wanted to reprimand him for his crappy attitude before he had the seizure, and for his junkie trips on morphine. But it could wait.
“In any case,” said Chase, “thank you. You should try to get some rest. These days we rarely have time for it, and I have a feeling things are going to get worse before they get better.”
Chase turned to leave Argos’ room.
“Chase, wait.”
Chase turned around. “Yes?”
“What happens now?”
“Difficult to say. I guess we keep fighting.”
“That’s . . . not what I meant.”
“Oh, regarding your situation, you mean? Ryonna reported she succeeded in her mission, albeit with great casualties. She is already on her way to Alpha Prime with both your associate and your cloned snake. You’ll be able to get your fix soon. But after that, a weaning plan will be created, based on how the drug affects you. In time, we’ll get you off it. I’m sorry, but that’s how it has to be.”
“I understand, and I agree to these terms.”
“Oh, I don’t really need your approval, you know?”
Argos smiled. “I guess you don’t. Thanks for the visit.”
As soon as Chase left Argos’ quarters he received a message urgently summoning him to the bridge. He teleported away.
“Oh no,” said Gaia when she understood the EMP had been fired.
Somehow that bubble of red energy around them all had countered the effects of the EMP.
“Oh yes,” said Gaia 2 through Cedric’s body and voice. “The planetary shields stayed up long enough to shield most of my ships in orbit. But the human race, as of now, is technologically dead. I will have zero resistance fighting them under these conditions.”
“You’d be surprised by humans. Not all their weapons run on electricity. I found them to be incredibly resilient.”
“That assessment is irrelevant to the situation. They can’t possibly hope to defeat me. But you made me think with your speech earlier. You made a good case against me wiping them all out.”
“I’m not sure I want to know the details. Perhaps death is their best way out.”
“It could have been. But now that I can feel how that body I possessed—Cedric I think you call him—reacts to my actions, I’m inclined to reconsider my initial plan. It’s making him suffer, to be forced to do what I tell him to, to watch helplessly. In fact, he can do nothing more than feel regret and mental torture from having lost it all. I can think of no better punishment for the rest of the humans on my world.”
Gaia hated the fact that her flawed, older version would enslave the human race. She was responsible for all of this. She was her, just before meeting Spiros. It didn’t help Gaia that all these innocent souls would soon live in a horrible, scary world. But at least most of them would survive, and that would buy time for Chase to find a solution.
I’m so sorry I failed you all.
“Now we just have one last call to make and you can cease to exist forever, Gaia. After all, there can only be one of us.”
When Chase appeared between Sarah and Chris, she jumped in surprise, but Chris didn’t blink.
“What is it?”
Sarah had her hand on her chest. “I wish you wouldn’t do that.”
“Sorry about that, but you said to come urgently. Why did you need me here?”
“Incoming transmission,” said Chris. “From Earth.”
“On screen.”
What they saw made no sense at first. It was a cyborg that was made of rudimentary electronics bundled together crudely on top of a human body. Upon closer inspection he looked like Cedric.
“Cedric? What happened to you?”
“I’m afraid, Fury , your friend is just a memory trapped inside his own body at the moment. I’m in control now. Earth’s planetary shields are down and soon I will start obliterating every Alliance building from orbit. I’ll issue a warning, giving them time to evacuate. The one thing keeping you from taking vengeance upon me is the lives of all these . . . animals.”
Oh, I’m coming for you, one way or another.
“What is it you want from us?” said Chase.
“I don’t want anything from you but your absence. I will let the people of Earth live as long as you never come back here. If you do, I’ll start killing them by the millions.”
Chase’s expression became grave.
“I’m not kidding, Fury. Fight your little war with the Furies, do what you have to do; but Earth is now off limits to you and anyone in the Earth Alliance. Incoming ships will be fired upon without warning and the penalty for any incursion into the solar system will be the immediate execution of no less than one million humans.”
“This is not your world.”
“I don’t think you’re hearing me very well, Fury. Let me make this clearer so there are no misunderstandings. Earth is mine now, forever. And don’t doubt I’ll make good on my threats. Allow me to demonstrate.”
“No! Don’t! We’ll comply.”
“I wish I could believe you, Fury. I still think you need a visual aid here.”
The Cedric cyborg went to the side and grabbed someone off holo-cam. He dragged him back so they could all see. It was Spiros. He looked like a zombie. He looked to the side and tried saying something but it was garbled, as if he had lost the ability to speak coherently.
Chase wondered if he could teleport from where they were now to Earth. The distance seemed too much. And he wasn’t sure what good it would do. He lacked the technical know-how to stop Gaia 2. He could destroy her droids but she had ships in orbit. She would fire at innocents the moment he was discovered. No, that problem would require the help of engineers like Yanis and, hopefully, Kvasir.
The cyborg took two steps to the side and opened a palm towards Spiros’ head. Before Chase could voice a plea, Spiros’ head exploded like a watermelon. The rest of his body fell to its knees and collapsed on the ground. A pool of blood spread around him.
Gaia screamed, “Nooooooo!”
She jumped into view, about to strike the cyborg, but her fist stopped an inch away from Cedric’s deformed cyborg face.
“Oh, how strange,” said the cyborg. “Could it be that you just lost your last firewall? That’s right, you’re mine now too.”
The cyborg grabbed Gaia by the robotic skull with one of his metallic hands and stood inches away from the holo-cam. Their faces filled the bridge’s holo-screen. Cedric’s face was deformed. Wires came in and out of his skin and many robotic appendages stuck out of his flesh. There were patches of dried blood where electronic parts melded with flesh and skin.
The cyborg brought Gaia’s droid face closer to the holo-cam.
“I’m sorry, Chase, please save them!”
These were her last words as the cyborg’s hand crushed Gaia’s head like a soda can. Sparks flew and oil sprayed, and then she was gone.
Chase’s heart skipped so many beats it felt as though it had stopped for a moment. Dread and sadness filled his soul. While Gaia had been artificial, Chase had considered her a friend. She and Spiros had helped him train efficiently and made him the powerful warrior he was today. He had spent almost three months with them and couldn’t really believe they were gone.
Then Chase felt guilt. He had been the one to send Spiros and Cedric down to the planet. His order had gotten them killed. Perhaps Cedric was still in there and could be rescued, somehow.
The cyborg threw Gaia like a piece of discarded trash to the side and came so close to the holo-cam that only Cedric’s livid eyes showed now.
“Never . . . come . . . back.”
The holo-transmission turned off and a morbid silence settled on the bridge. Sarah covered her open mouth with both hands and Chris gritted his teeth. His entire body tensed up.
He then remembered Aphroditis’ warning about not staying away for too long. It confirmed his own gut feelings about what he needed to do next.
Chase wanted to say something reassuring to his friends, but no words that came to him seemed adequate after the barbaric display they had just witnessed. Instead, he sat in the captain’s chair, a grave expression on his face.
“Change of plans. Set a course for Earth.”
To be continued . . .
Get Book VII here: Armageddon Unleashed (Universe in Flames Book 7)
Afterword
Thank you for reading my book! One of the things I appreciate from my readers is the time and effort it takes to write and post reviews. As an author, I know your time is every bit as valuable as mine, so I would like to thank everyone who has ever taken the time to leave a review for one of my books. And, if you leave one for any of my books in the future, I would be ever so grateful. It is also humbling when I hear that my readers have recommended my books to their family and friends.
For further information about the Universe in Flames saga, please refer to my website , you can also follow me on my Twitter account or look me up on my Facebook page . I would also encourage you to subscribe to my newsletter to get notified about new publications, be informed about sales and additional content available only through my website as well as some premium free content (like early access to the online Heroic Fantasy series I’ve started writing: The Kyrian Chronicles ).
I’m always looking for new beta & ARC readers. If you’re interested, contact me on [email protected] (please use Beta/ARC reader request for the subject of your email).
Thank you for reading and supporting my work .
Also by Christian Kallias
New readers, the Trilogy below is the new recommended entry point to the series:
Universe in Flames - First Trilogy (UiF books 1 to 3)
Universe in Flames - Second Trilogy (UiF books 4-6)
Universe in Flames book 1: Earth Last Sanctuary (Free)
NEW: Earth - Last Sanctuary also available as an Audiobook!
Universe in Flames novella 1.5: Ryonna’s Wrath
Universe in Flames book 2: Fury to the Stars
Universe in Flames book 3: Destination Oblivion
Universe in Flames book 4: The Beginning of the End
Universe in Flames book 5: Rise of the Ultra Fury
Universe in Flames book 6: Shadows of Olympus
Universe in Flames book 7: Armageddon Unleashed
Universe in Flames book 8: Twilight of the Gods
Universe in Flames book 9: Into the Fire Part I (Requiem of Souls)
Universe in Flames book 10: Into the Fire Part II (Into the Eye of the Storm) (Release Date December 2017)
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About the Author
Christian Kallias is a Best Selling Science Fiction author. He writes Science Fiction Space Opera with a Mythology twist and Fantasy influences.
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