Speaker 1: Commander of Extella stood in the bridge of her ship,
watching the stars through the main dying screen. The bridge
was quite except for the soft hum of machines and
the gentle beeping of computers. Her ship, the Sovereign's Will,
was one of the largest vessels in the Zephyrin fleet.
It was over two miles long and carried enough weapons
to destroy a small moon. The Keplerm in his four
hundred forty two system was peaceful today. Free planets circled
the Yellow Star, and one of them was home to
a new Ziffrin colony. The colonists had been there for
only five years, but they were doing well. They had
built cities, farms, and mining stations. Trade ships came and
when every few days, carrying goods to other parts of
the galaxy. That Stella had been patrolling this area for
six months. It was not exciting work, but it was important.
The Keplerman his four hundred forty two systems sat at
the crossing of three major trade routes. Ships from dozens
of different daily and races passed through here every day,
most of them more friendly, but pirates sometimes tried to
attack the merchant vessels. The commander was tall, even for
a zephrin. Her skin was blue green and covered with
small scales that caught the light from the bridge displays.
How large as could see much better than human eyes,
and her forearms made her very good operating the compass
control panels on her ship. She had been in the
Zephrian Navy for thirty years and had fought in many battles.
Today felt different, though her senses had been picking up
strange readings for the past ire. Something was coming toward
their system through hyperspace. The computer said it would arrive soon.
Commander called out her censor officer, a young Zephyn name Colter.
We have a ship dropping out of hyperspace. It's about
fifty thousand miles away from us. Exceller turned to look
at the main display screen. A new dot appeared in
the tactical map, showing the position of the unknown vessel.
She frowned as she studied the readings. What kind of
ship is it? She asked. Colter worked at his console
for a moment, his forehands dancing across the control Its strange. Commander,
the ship is much smaller than our frigates. The whole
appears to be made of simple metal alloys. The design
is very basic. It looks like it was built by
a species that just learned how to travel between stars.
Weapons Axtella wanted to know. I can detect some energy
signatures that might be weapons, but they are very weak.
This ship could not hurt even our smallest patrol boat.
Fixola relaxed. A little new species discovered hyperspace travel every
few years. Most of them were excited and curious about
the galaxy, but they were also primitive and harmless. That
Saferian Confederation had procedures for dealing with such contacts. Are
they sending any messages, she asked? Dark Communications officer Riven
looked up from her station. Yes, Commander, they are broadcasting
on multiple frequencies. The message is in very simple galactic standard.
I will put it on the main speakers. A voice
filled the bridge. It sounded strange with all tones and pronunces.
That was not quite right. Breedings, we are explorers from terror.
We seek peaceful contact and trade opportunities. Please respond if
you can understand this message. Several officers on the bridge
made soft clicking sounds with them outs. This was Hazefrin's laughed.
The alien sounded so polite and hopeful. It reminded Victalov
children asking for permission to play in the garden. Terror,
she said, thoughtfully, I have never heard of that world.
Computer search the database for any reference to planet Coal, Terror,
or species that calls itself Terran. The ship's computer made
soft humming sounds as it searched for millions of records.
After a few seconds, it responded in its calm, mechanical voice,
no records found for Terror or Terrans in the galactic database.
This was not unusual. There were thousands of worlds in
the galaxy and new ones were discovered all the time.
Many primitive species had never made contact with galactic civilization before.
What does their ship look like, Extella asked. The main
viewing screen changed to show the alien vessel. Fixtello stud
at it carefully. The ship was indeeds more maybe three
hundred feet long. Its hull was gray metal with some
kind of numbers and symbols painted in the side. The
design was very simple and blocky, without the smooth curves
that advance Schibblers preferred. Parts of it looked like they
had been welded together by hand. It looks like a
cargo ship, said tactical officer, as Queen, see those large
sections in the middle, they are probably storage areas, and
no small sections at the back are likely the engines.
Very primitive, agreed another officer. Look at those exhaust ports.
They are using chemical rocket for maneuvering. We stopped using
those five hundred years ago. Dextella nodded. The Aliens were
clearly new to space travel. The ship looked like something
a student might build an engineering school. It was functional,
but crude, Commander riven kolda, they are sending another message.
Let me hear the strange voice came through the speakers again.
This is Captain Sarah Chan of the Terran Colonial Service
vessel Indomitable. We have detected your ships and webiano to
speak with you. We bring greetings from the people of
Terran and hope to learn about your civilization. Term Colonial
Service Vexdella repeated. So they have some kind of government
organization for space exploration. That shows there at least somewhat organized.
She made her decision quickly. First contact with the new
species was always interesting, and it would be good for
her career if she handled it well. The Aliens seemed
harmless and polite. There was no danger in talking to them.
Revern open a channel to their ship. Channel open. Commander
Extell stepped forward and spoke in HOMOSU official voice Terran
Vessel Indomitable. This is command of Vextel off the Zephriyn
Confederation ship sovereigns. Will we welcome you to the Kaplum
in his four hundred forty two system. We are pleased
to make contact with U species. There was a pause,
then the alien voice responded, Command of vex Stella, This
is Captain chan. We are grateful for your welcome. This
is our first contact with any alien civilization and we
are very excited to me meet you. First contact, whispered Calder.
They really are primitive. Axtella continued speaking to the aliens.
Captain Chane, we would be happy to tell you about
galactic civilization and how your species might join the community
of worlds. Would you be willing to meet with us
in person? Another pause. We would be very honored to
meet with you, Commander. Should we come to your ship
that would be acceptable. We will send you docking instructions.
As Reven transmitted the docking procedures, the excell A turn
to her staff prepare the formal meeting chamber. Use the
standard first contact protocols and make sure our translators are
working properly. The galactic standard is not very good. What
kind of reception should we prepare? Asteroid fell Anner w
Exceeller thought for a moment, something impressive but not threatening.
These aliens need to understand that we are advanced and powerful,
but also friendly. Bring out the ceremonial God, but keep
their weapons powered down, and prepare the standard protection treaty documents.
The Protection treaty was something this is Eephfrin Confederation offered
to all primitive species. It was a generous agreement that
provided new species with abouts technology, protection from pirates and
hostile aliens, and access to galactic trade routes. In exchange,
the new species would provide raw materials, agricultural products, and
workers for Zephyrine projects. Most primitive species were eager to
sign such treaties. Who would not want protection and advanced technology.
The Zephyrians had signed similar agreements with over forty different
species in the past two centuries. It was a system
that worked well for everyone. How long until the dark
Extella asked about thirty minutes, Commander Fixceelli used the time
to study the files on first contact procedures. She had
done this before, but each new species was different. Some
were excited and curious, others were nervous and suspicious. Of
few had been hostile, but those cases were rare. Most
primitive species quickly realized the cooperation with advanced civilizations was
in their best interests. The Terrans seemed to fall into
the first category. The messages have been polite and the respectful.
They had not made any demands or threats. They appeared
to understand that they were the nucomers in the situation.
When the alien ship reached the docking bay of Estella
was ready. Sheer changed into a formal ediform, which was
covered with metals and decorations that showed her rank and achievements.
The meeting chamber had been prepared with comfortable chairs and
a large table covered with star charts and treated documents.
Commander and aunts fell on the aliens of Dot Security
reports that three of them are coming aboard there or
wearing some kind of environmental suits and environmental suits. Estella
was surprised. Our atmosphere should be safe for most optage
in bred and species. They may be being cautious commander.
Perhaps the species has special requirements this mid sense. Many
alien species needed different amasaic mixtures or protection from certain
types of radiation. Safrians always tried to make their guests comfortable.
A few minutes later, at the doors to the meeting
chamber opened, three figures in bucky white suits walked in,
led by Vextello security chief. The suits covered their entire barders,
and their faces were hidden behind reflective helmets. The aliens
moved in an interesting way. They seemed to be studying
everything around them, taking in details of the room and
the equipment. Their heads turned frequently, as if they were
recording or analyzing what they saw. One of them stepped
forward and spoke. The voice was muffled by the helmet,
but the translation system made it clear. Command of Extella,
I am Captain Sera Chan, thank you for welcoming us
a boarder ship. These are my officers which had in
Commander Park and Signs Officer Rodriguez Extello stood and gave
a formal bou Captain Chun, welcome to the sovereigns. Will
please sit down. We have much to discuss. The humans
took their seats carefully even through their suits, Faxtella could
tell they were smaller than Zephyrian's. They seemed to be
studying the room and its contents with great interest. Captain
Chun Axtella began. He said, this is your first contact
with alien civilization. How did your species develop hyperspace travel
without meeting other races? Terror is located in a relatively
empty region of space. Gavin Chun replied, we had no
idea that so many other intelligent species existed until we
developed off FoST typospace engines a few years ago. We
have been exploring carefully looking for signs of other civilizations,
and now you have found us. Paxtell said with satisfaction,
this is a great day for both our species. Stace,
the galaxy is a large and sometimes dangerous place, but
it is also full of opportunities for those who know
how to take advantage of them. She gestured to the
star charts and the table. These maps show the major
trade routes and the territories of the most important civilizations.
As you can see, space is divided among many different confederations, hegumennes,
and collectives. Each group controls hundreds or thousands of star systems,
Captain Chun Lean for were to study the maps, fascinating
how many different species? For there over three hundred that
we know of, Atchtella replied proudly. The Zephyrn Confederation alone
includes forty seven different species. We provide protection and technology
to our member worlds, and they contribute their unique scales
and resources to our common prosperity. It sounds like a
very organized system. Chun said, how does a new species
like IROs fit into this structure? Fixed Teless mild, howing
her sharp teeth, this was exactly the question she had
been hoping for. That is an excellent question, Captain Chan.
The galaxy can be a dangerous place for species that
try to go it alone. There are pirates, hostile aliens,
and many of the threats. But species that join establish
confederations can enjoy protection and prospect. She picked up one
of the documents from the table. This is a standard
protection treaty. It autlins how new species can become members
of the Zephyran Confederation. We provide military protection, advanced technology,
and access to galactic markets. In return, member species contribute
resources and labor to our common projects. Captain Shane took
the document and appear to study it through her helmet.
This is very generous of you. What kinds of resources
and laborer would terribly expected to provide? Nothing too difficult
extel as she would her perhaps mining operations, agricultural products,
while workers for construction projects. Every species contributes what they
do best. It is a fair system that has worked
well for centuries. The human was quiet for a long moment,
apparently reading through the treat Finally, she looked up, Commander,
this is a lot of information to process. Would it
be possible for us to take some time to study
this proposal and consult with our government on terror? Paxcella
was pleased to the humans were being sensible. Many primitive
species tried to make hasty decisions in these situations, but
the mark Ones took time to consider their options. Of course,
Captain Chun, take all the time you need. These are
important decisions should not be rushed. As the meeting continued,
Viccella found herself luck in these humans. More and more.
They asked intelligent questions about galactic civilization, trade procedures, and
defense arrangements. They seemed genuinely interested in learning and participating
in the wider community of world. When the meeting ended.
Captain Chanthan Fixella for her time and hospitality. The three
humans returned to their ship, taking copies of the treaty
documents within Dot. As she watched the small vessel move
away from her ship, Vextella felt satisfied with the day's work.
The humans seemed like exactly the kind of species that
would benefit from Zephyrn protection. They were intelligent but primitive,
organized but not threatening. In a few days, they would
probably return with sign treatis eager to join galactic civilization. Dot.
She had no idea how wrong she was. Captain Sir
Chansat in the small meeting room aboard the Terran ship Indomitable.
The room was crammed compared to the spacious chambers on
the Zephyrn vessel, but it served as purpose around the
table set of foremost trusted officers, Lieutenant Commander Park, Science
Officer Rodriguez and intelligent specialist Hayes. Dutcha never removed her
environmental suit after returning from the alien ship. She was
a woman in her early forties with short black hair
and sharp brown eyes that missed nothing. How uniform was
simple and practical, very different from the elaborate decorations worn
by the zephyrn commander, Well, what do you think as
you and asked her team Lieutenant Commander Park spoke first.
He was a tall man with sturdy hands and a calmvoice.
There exactly what the advanced reports said. They would be arrogant, condescending,
and completely convinced of their own superiority. The protection treaty
is interesting, added Rodriguez, a woman with graying hair and
thick glasses. It is basically a slavery contract dressed up
in fancy language. They provide some technology and protection, while
the member species gives them everything valuable. They own. Hayes,
the youngest number of the team. Look, Andrew, did you
see how they talked to us like we were children
who needed adults to take care of us. They think
we are completely helpless. John nodded slowly. That is exactly
what we want them to think. The longer they believe
we are primitive and harmless, the more information we can gather.
She turned to Rodriguez. What did you learn from the
ship's systems while we were there? Rodrigue smiled and pulled
out a small device. Quite a lot. Actually, their security
is terrible they never imagined that primitive aliens might have
advanced scanning equipment hidden in their environmental suits. I was
able to map most of their computer networks and download
significant amounts of data. Excellent, what kind of data, fleet positions,
patrol schedules, defensive arrangements for the system, and a lot
of information about their ongoing conflicts with the other aliens.
It seems the Zafrians of fighting wars on multiple front
Chuan lean forward with interest. Tell me more about these conflicts,
Rodriguez consulted her notes. They are currently engaged in territorial
disputes with two other major powers. The Hegemony of Care
controls the systems to the north, and the Crystalline Collective
dominates the eastern regions. All three groups have been fighting
over border systems for over two hundred years. Two hundred
years part looks surprise. That is a very long time
for a war. It is not really at war, Rodriguez explained,
more like a series of small battles in diplomatic incidents.
None of the three powers is strong enough to defeat
the others completely, so they just keep fighting over the
same few systems again and again. Hayes added, the casualty
numbers are incredible. Millions of beings have died in these conflicts,
and none of the size has gained more than a
few star systems. It is a complete waste of resources.
Can process this information carefully. The intelligence reports from TERROR
had suggested that the local Ilien powers were not very efficient,
but this was worse than expected. Any military force that
could fight for two centuries without achieving decisive victory was
probably not very good at warfare. What about their technology,
she asked, mixed results. Rodriguez replied, some of their systems
of quiet advance, specially to haberspace engines and end energy weapons,
but their tactics and strategic thinking appear to be very ordated.
They built huge, slow ships designed for long battles of
addression attritionan warfare. Chen mused, that explains the two hundred
year conflicts. They just keep throwing ships at each other
until one side gets tired and gives up exactly, and
their defensive strategies are completely predictable. They group their fleets
around major worlds and wait for enemies to attack. Very
passive and reactive. Chen stood up and walked to the
small window that looked out into space. In the distance,
she could see the lights of the Zephyrian fleet, five
large ships and a dozen smaller vessels, all positioned in
a standard defensive formation. They have no idea what modern
warfare looks like, she said quietly. They are still fighting
the same way their ancestors did centuries ago. How cleared
his throat. Captain, what are your orders? Should we proceed
with the original mission plan? She in turned back to
her offices. Not yet. We need more information first. The
Zephyrins are clearly planning to offer us the protection trety,
and I want to see exactly how they present it.
The more we understand about their diplomatic methods, the better
we can predict how they will react to other species.
She sat back down at the table. Besides, playing the
role of grateful primitives for a few more days will
not hurt us. It gives our other ships more time
to get into position. Has looked confused. Other ship's captain
Chun smiled, Did you really think Terror would send just
one ship to make first contact with an a non
ail empower? Indomitable is just the advanced scout. The rest
of Task Force Omega's currently moving into position throughout this
system how many ships are we talking about? Park wanted
to know enough. Chun replied simply, but they are all
using stealth systems and holographic camouflage. To the Zephyrins, they
will look like calm as merchant vessels under such ships.
By the time we reveal our true capabilities, it will
be too late for them to respond effectively. Roderigue is
nodded approvingly. A classic misdirection strategy. Make the enemy underestimate
your forces while you gather intelligence and achieve tactical superiority.
Exactly Sephin's think they are dealing with a single primitive
ship crewed by curious explorers. They have no idea that
they are facing a full colonial marine task force equipped
with the most advanced weapons Terror has ever built. The
next morning, John received a message from command of Vextella
inviting her to return to the Seferian flagship for more
detailed discussions. Chuhn accepted immediately, bringing the same team of
officers with her. The meeting chamber and the sovereigns will
have been prepared even more elaborately than before. The table
was covered with starcharts, technical manuals, and several coppies other
protection treaty. Around the room stood six Suferian gods and
ceremonial armor, their weapons clearly visible but not threatening. Command
of Vextella greeted them warmly. Captain Chan will come back.
I hope you are time to study the materials we
provided yesterday. We did Command of my officers, and I
spent many arrows for reviewing the protection treaty and the
information about galactic civilization. It is all very impressive. Vectholo
gesture for them to sit down. I am glad you
find it interesting to day. I would like to discuss
the practical details of how terror might join this Ephyr
in confederation. Juhn nodded politely. We are very interested in
learning more. The zephyr and commander activated a holographic display
that showed a three dimensional map of the galaxy, hundreds
of star systems closed in different colors, representing the territories
of various alien powers. As you can see, Vextella began,
the galaxy is divided among many different groups. The blue
systems belong to the Ceffering Confederation. We control over six
hundred star systems and protect forty seven different species. She
pointed to other regions of the map. The red systems
are controlled by the hegemony of CAP and a green
once belong to the Crystalline Collective. These are our main
rivals in this part of the galaxy. June studied the
map carefully. It looks like you are surrounded by potential enemies.
That is why the protection treaty is so important. Extill explained.
No single species can survive alone in such a dangerous environment,
but together we are strong enough to defend ourselves in
prosper She touched it control and the map zumed and
to show the local region around the keplmin his four
hundred forty two system Terror would be located somewhere in
this area, correct, She in pointed to a system about
fifty light years away. Yes, approximately there, Vextella nodded, excellent.
That location would give us a useful outpust for monitoring
hedgemany activities in that sector. Your world would be well protected,
and Urre could serve as a base for our patrol fleets.
What kind of protection would you provide, par asked, complete
military protection, Exteller replied proudly. Any species that threatens a
Confederation member would face the full might of our fleet,
we have over three thousand warships, including fifty dreadnoughts like
this one. Hayes looked impressed. Three thousand ships. That is
a very large fleet. Great it is, indeed, and with
Terror's membership, we would station a permanent patrol force in
your system, perhaps twenty ships initially, with more if needed.
Jen appeared to consider this. What would Terror be expected
to contribute in return? Fixtell's expression became more business like,
nothing too difficult. Terror would provide raw materials for our shiphood,
agricultural products for our worlds that focus on manufacturing, and
workers for various projects throughout the Confederation. What kinds of
raw materials? Rodrigis wanted to know? Metals, crystals, radioactive elements
for our power systems. Your world probably has large reserves
of such materials that you are not using yet. In
agricultural products, food crops, luxury atoms, exact spices. Many of
our industrial worlds cannot grow their own food, so they
depend on agricultural worlds to feed their populations. Shun frowned slightly.
How much food would turn you to provide perhaps thirty
percent of your total agricultural output, Pastella said casually, that
would leave plenty for your own population. Park Luck concerned,
thirty percent seems like quite a lot for a new member.
Pixtella waved one of her fourhands dismissively. It may seem
like much now, but remember that you would receive advanced
farming technology in return. Zephyri and agricultural methods could increase
your crop peels by three or four times. You would
actually produce much more food than before, even after providing
your contribution to the confederation. Shun nodded slowly. And the
workers you mentioned various, Perhaps five percent of your adult
population initially has did some quick mental calculations. Five percent
of Terror's population is about fifty million people. Is that
a problem? Excel asked. They would be well treated and
paid fair wages. Many you would learn valuable skills that
they could bring back to Terror. Sean was quiet for
a moment, apparently thinking, Commander, these are very generous offers,
but they represent major commitments for Terror. Our government would
need to study all the details carefully before making such
important decisions. Of course, Fixtella replied, but I should mention
that there are some time pressures involved. Time pressures Faxteller's
expression became more serious. The galactic situation is always changing.
Right now, Terror is in a claimed space, which means
any of the major powers could decide to expand into
your region. If Tara is not under Confederation protection, you
could find yourselves face in demands from the Hegemony or
the Collective. She paused for effect, and I can assure
you that those powers are much less generous than we are.
The hedgemen Is simply conquers primitive species in ten them
into slave well, so the collective absorbs other species into
their hive mind, destroying their individual cultures completely. Chen looked alarmed.
That sounds terrible. It is. That is why time is important.
The longer Terror remains unprotected, the greater the risk that
one of our enemies will discover your world and claim
it for themselves. Park lean forward. How much time do
we have? It is hard to say months, perhaps a
year at most. The Hegemony has been expanding in this direction,
and their scout ships could reach Terror's region at any time.
She stood up and walked to the holographic map. She
studied it for several minutes, asking detailed questions about patrol routes,
communication systems, and defensive strategies. The Xtella answered all her
questions freely, clearly believing that the primitive humans needed to
understand how galactic politics worked. This is all very complex,
she said. Finally, I can see what Terror would benefit
from confederation prediction. But our government will need detailed reports
about everything we have learned here. How long will that take,
Axtella asked, at least fourty eight iOS. We need to
send detailed missages back to Terror and wait for instructions
from our leaders. Vextelle looked disappointed, but nodded very well.
But I hope Terror will not delay too long. Every
day of delay increases the risk to your world. As
the meeting ended, can thank the Zafring commander for her
patients and information. The humans returned to their ship carrying
data chips with detailed information about the protection treaty in
galactic politics. Once they were safely back aboard, the Indomitable
Chen called her officers to get her again, well, she asked,
Rodrigue shook her head in amazement. They told us everything
fleet positions, defense, the strategies, resource requirements, political weaknesses. That
is like they want us to know how to defeat them.
They think we are too primitive to understand the military
significance of what they are telling us. Pock observed Hayes
was looking at his notes. Did you hear what she
said about terror providing fifty million workers? That is not
a protection treaty. It is a blueprint for economic exploitation.
Chen nodded grimly, and thirty percent of our agricultural Albert
would mean starvation from miln of humans. They are not
offering protection. They are planning to strip mine our entire civilization.
She walked to the communications console. Rodriguez send a message
to Task Force Omega. Tell them to accelerate the deployment schedule.
I warned, all ships in position within twenty four ioss, Captain,
what about our response to the Zaphiine's unsmiled coldly. We
will give them an answer, just not the one they
are expecting. Is time to show these aliens what humanity
is rarely capable of. Outside the winter, more lights appeared
in the darkness of space as additional human ships began
arriving in the system. To the Zephrians, they looked like
harmless merchant vessels and research ships. They had no idea
that each new arrival was actually a heavily armed warship
moving into position for what would become the most one
sided battle and galactic history of Tactical Analyst Cretit set
at his work station aboard the sovereigns Well, staring at
the data streams flowing across his multiple displaced screens. As
one of the youngest officers in the ship, he often
drew the boring assignments like monitoring sensor readings and trucking
ship movements. Most days, nothing interesting happened in the KEPPELMNS
four hundred forty two system. Today was different, though, more
human ships had been arriving throughout the past day, and
something about them bought the tim Pretam was good with
numbers and patents. This brain worked differently than most Uphrians,
which made him excellent at spotting things that others missed.
The first thing that caught his attention was the way
the human ships moved. When primitive species traveled through space,
their formations were usually random and disorganized. They had not
learned proper fleet tactics yet, so the ships wandered around
like lost children. But these human ships were different. They
appeared to be moving randomly, but when Kurtain plotted their
positions on his tactical displayed. He noticed something interesting. Despite
looking scattered and in organized, the ships were actually positioned
to provide overlapping fields of fire and mutual defensive support. Computer,
he said, quietly, analyzed the current positions of all human
vessels in the system calculate optimal fire in solutions and
defensive coverage patterns. The computer hamm for a few seconds,
then displayed its results. Kurtin aslogized widened as he studied
the date that the human ships were positioned almost perfectly
for a coordinated attack. Every major Zefin vessel was covered
by at least three different fire and angles. If the
humans were enemies, they could not have chosen better positions,
but that was impossible. These were primitive explorers and merchants,
not military strategists. They probably did not even understand basic
spaced tactics. Kretin tried a different approach. Computer compared the
energy signatures of the human vessels with non ships classifications
in the galactic database. More data appeared on his screens.
This was even more confusing. The human ships were broadcasting
energy signatures that mapped simple cargo holers in research vessels,
but when Kreta looked more closely at the readings. He
noticed tiny inconsistencies. The power levels were too stable for
primitive fusion reactors, the engine emissions showed traces of his
artic matter that only advanced civilizations could produce, and the
electromagnetic signatures suggested the presence of sophisticated scanning equipment far
beyond what merchant ships would normally carry. That is strange,
Kreta muddered to himself. He had never seen readings quite
like these before. He decided to run a deeper analysis
in the largest human ship, the one that had arrived second.
According to its identification signals, it was called the merchant
vessel Prosperity and was carrying agricultural products for trade. The
computer scanned the ship with passive senses, trying to penetrate
its hull and examine its internal structure. What affern made
no sense at all that the ship's cargo bays were
the red size and shape for agricultural storage, but that
were almost empty instead of crops and livestock. The standing
equipment detected complex machinery and what appeared to be military equipment.
There were also large empty spaces that could be weapons bays,
though no weapons were currently visible. Most puzzing of all,
the ship mass readings did not match its apparent's eyes.
According to the senses, the vessel was nearly twice as
heavy as it should be for its dimensions. That suggested
it had hidden compartments or at much tiker hell than
it appeared to have. Creten sat back in his chair,
thinking hot. There were several possible explanations for these readings.
The humans might have more advanced technology than they claimed,
other ships might be designed for multiple purposes, or the
Zephyran senses might be malfunctioning. He decided to check the
other human vessels. One by one, he scanned each ship
in the system. The results were similar every time. The
ships looked primitive and harmless, but their energy signatures and
mass readings suggested they were much more advanced than they appeared.
By the time he finished his analysis, Cretin was deeply worried.
He had found at least a dozen major in consistencies
in the human fleet. Taken individually, each one could be
explained away, but together they painted a picture that made
him very uncomfortable. He stood up on bot across the
bridge to the command station where Command of Uxtella was
reviewing reports from the diplomatic medians. Commander, he said hestantly,
I need to show it you something. Faxilla looked up
from her data. Pat what is it, Kretin? It is
about the human ships. Command. I have been analyzing their
positions and energy signatures, and I found some unusual readings.
Unusual how Critin activated the main tactical display and showed
her the formation patterns here discovered. Look at their possessions, Commander.
They appay random, then, but they actually provide optimal tactical
coverage of our fleet. Vaxella studied the display for a moment,
then shrugged. Coincident. Primitive species sometimes stumble into decent formations
by accident, perhaps, Commander, But there are other issues curtain
switch to the energy signature analysis. Their ships are broadcasting
power readings consistent with primitive technology. But but the detailed
scans showing consistencies. He pointed to several date streams on
the screen. These exotic matter traces, the electromagnetic signatures, the
mass readings that do not match the apparent health sizes.
Taken together, they suggest the human ships are not what
they claim to be. The Stella frowned as she studied
the data. What are you suggesting, Analyst. I am not sure, Commander,
but I think we should be more careful or on
these humans. Something about their fleet does not add apt.
The commander was quiet for a long moment, considering what
she had been shown. Finally, she shook her head cretenure
overthinking this. Yes, there are some unusual regions, but that
is normal when dealing with unfamiliar technology. Ever, species builds
the shits differently. She gestured toward the communication logs from
the diplomatic meetings. I have been talking with the humans
for two days. They are polite, curious, and complete the harmless.
Captain Chin is obviously intelligent, but she is also clearly
overwhelmed by the complexity of galactic civilization. But commanded the
tactical formations of meaningless fix all interrupted. Even if the
human's position the Shuitz perfectly for an attack, what could
they possibly do to us? The most powerful vessel is
smaller than our frigates. Their weapons are primitive chemical rockets
and basic energy projectors. They could not hurt our shields
even if they tried. Correct and wanted to argue further,
but he conceded the commander had made up at mind
and Zephyrn culture. Junior officers did not contradict the superiors
without very strong evidence, and he had to admit that
his concerns were based mostly on suspicious patterns rather than
conquete proof. Yes, Commander, he said, finally, good. Now return
to your station and continue monitoring the system, but stop
looking for problems that do not exist. As cret and
walked back to his work stition, he felt frustrated and worried.
His analytical mind told him that something was very wrong
with the human fleet, but he could not prove it,
and even if he could, would anyone listen to him?
Memewhile on the other side of the bridge, communications officer
Ravin was having her own concerns. She had been monitoring
all transmissions between the human ships, hoping to learn more
about their language and culture. What she found was puzzling.
The humans were using sophisticated encryption methods for their internal
cos communications. That was unusual for a primitive species that
had supposedly just developed hipspurce travel. More concerning was the
content of the few messages she had been able to decode.
Instead of discussing trade goods or exploration plans. That humans
seemed to be coordinating something they called deployment schedules and
tactical assessments. Theo sounded like military terms, not the language
of peaceful merchants and explorers. For Reven had also noticed
that the human ships were conducting very detailed scans of
the Zephyran fleet, much more detailed than would be needed
for simple scentific curiosity. It was almost as if they
were mapping weapon systems and defensive capabilities. She considered reporting
these observations to Command of Exteller, but decided against it.
The commander is seen convinced that the humans were harmless primitives,
and Raven did not want her per paranoid or incompetent. Instead,
she decided to keep monitoring the human communications more closely.
If she could decode more of their messages, patch she
would find something concrete enough to justify her consents. Two
days after the first diplomatic meeting, Captain Chin sent a
message requesting another conference with Command of Extello. She said
that Terry had received the information about the protection treaty
and was ready to provide an official response of Extello
was pleased. She had expected the humans to accept the
treaty eagerly, and she looked forward to welcoming another species
into the Confederation. The signing ceremony would be good for
her career, and Toro would provide these four resources for
the ongoing conflicts with the Hegemony and the collect If.
The meeting was scheduled for the next morning. Chin and
her usual team of officers arrived at the appointed time,
still wearing their environmental seats. They seemed more confident than before,
walking with purpose and speaking more directly. Command of extell A,
Chin said as she entered the meeting chamber, thank you
for your patients while we consulted with our government. Tore
As carefully considered a generous of excellent Exteller replied, I'm
sure your leaders recognized the benefits of confederation membership. Chinnset
down at the conference table, but she did not lean
forward eagerly, as SHF died in previous meetings. Instead, she
sat back in her chair with her hands folded, looking
more like a military officer than a nervous explorer commander.
Before we discussed Terry's response, I would like to clarify
a few things about our previous conversations. Of course, what
would you like to know? You'd mentioned that TERROR would
be expected to provide thirty percent of our agricultural apport
to the confederation. Is that correct? Years? That is the
standard contribution for agricultural wells and fifty million workers for
various projects approximately, est and Terror would also provide raw materials,
including metals and radioactive elements for your power systems. Fixcella nodded.
These countries aributions would ensure Terror's protection and access to
advanced technology. Chen was quiet for a moment. Then look
directly at the zephyrn Commander. What you are describing is
not a protection treaty, Commander, it is economic colonization. For
Extella was taken aback by the blunt statement, I do
not understand what you mean. You want us to give
you thirty percent of our food, fifty million of our people,
and all of our valuable minerals. In return, you offer
us some technology and protection from enemies that we have
never encountered. This is not a partnership between equals. It
is the relationship between a master and the servant. The
Zephyr and commander felt a flash of anger, Captain Chen,
your being ungrateful that the Confederation is offering a primitive
species the chance to join galactic civilization. Without our protection,
Terror will be conjured by the hegemony or absorbed by
the collective chance stood up slowly, I see, and if
we refuse your generous offer, then terror will remain unprotected
and vulnerable. The galaxy is a dangerous place for species
that try to survive alone. Is that a threat? Commander
Bistella realized that the conversation had taken an unexpected term.
She had expected grateful acceptance, not pointed questions and accusations.
That is not a threat, Captain, it is simply reality.
Chuan not have thoughtfully. Thank you for clarifying your position, Commander.
Now let me clarify eyes, she gestured to her officers.
Up with melt a precision. Their posture and movements were
no longer those of curious explorers. They looked like soldiers
preparing for battle. Command of Xtella Chan said, in a
voice that had become cold and professional. I should inform
you that I have been less than completely honest about
our mission here. What do you mean we are not
explorers seeking peaceful contact and trade opportunities. We are an
advanced reconnaissance unit of the Town Colonial Marines, sent to
evaluate potential firsts to human expansion in this sector. The
meeting chamber fell silent. Pixtella stared at the humans, trying
to process what she had just heard. Over the past
four days, turn continued, we have conducted comprehensive intelligence gathering
operations against your fleet and u civilization. We have analyzed
your weapons, your tactics, eropolitical structure, and your military capabilities.
She paused, consulting a data pad that it appeared in
her hand. We have also mondored your ongoing conflicts with
the hedgemony of Kat and the Chrystaline Collective. Your species
has been engaged in these. The bridge of the sovereigns
will erupted into Chaos's Alarms bladed and warning lights flashed
thread across every control panel. Officers shouted orders and questions
while their instruments showed readings that should have been impossible.
Commander Extell stood for as in the meeting chamber, stirring
a Captain chan. The human woman no longer looked like
a nervous explorer seeking guidance from superior aliens. Her posture
was straight and confident, her eyes cold and calculating. She
looked like what she really was, a predator who had
been studying her prey. This cannot be happening. Faxsilla whispered,
your ship to primitive f Your technology is centers behind hours.
She tilted her head slightly, like a teacher correcting a
slow student. Commander, everything you think you know about human
technology is wrong. We showed you exactly what we wanted
you to see on the tactical displays bround the bridge.
The transformation of the human fleet continued. What it appeared
to be a small merchant vessel called the Prosperity was
now revealed as a massive battle cruiser, nearly as large
as the sovereigns will as hopelessold, with weapon arrays that
looked unlike anything in the Zephyrne database. Another ship that
had identified itself as a research vessel was dropping its
disguise to reveal sleek fighter bays and missile launchers. A
third vessel, supposedly carrying agricultural supplies was extending massive sense
or arrays in what appeared to be some kind of
energy cann Nott tactical annals curtain rushed into the meeting
chamber of his face pale with fear. Commander, the human
fleet is not what we thought. The mass readings, the
energy signatures, everything was false. I can see that Vextel
snapped though her voreshook was shock. Chun watched the panic
with commonterest annals Kreton. Is it not? You were the
one asking questions about our ship formations and energy readings.
We not. Kreton stared at her in surprise. How do
you know my name? We have been monitoring all communications
on your ship since our first visit. Your concerns were
quite perceptive. Actually, you almost figured out what we were doing.
She turned back to Vixilla. Unfortunately, your commander chose to
ignore those warnings. That was a mistake. Vixela tried to
regain her composure. What do you want if this is
some kind of elaborare first contact procedure, you have made
your point, Sean laugh a sound without humor, Commander, the
stop being a first contact saturation. The moment you offered
to enslave my species, did you really think we would
hand over over fifty million of our people and thirty
percent of our food production to aliens? We had just met.
That is the standard arrangement for new species joining galactic
civilization exactly, and that tells you s everything we need
to know about galactic civilization. Kig began pacing around the
meeting table, her movements controlled and purposeful. For the past
six months, TERROR has been conducting covert reconnaissance missions throughout
this region of space. We have studied the Zephrian Confederation,
the Hedgemony of cath and the Crystalline Collective. She paused
to look directly at Fixthala. Do you know what we found?
Three declining powers, locked and pointless conflicts using outdated tactics
and primitive strategies. You have been fighting the same war
for two hundred years without achieving anything except massive cashulders.
Our military might is proven in battle. Extella protested weakly,
your military might as a joke. Chan replied bluntly. You
build a normous ships designed for long range bombardment and
attrition warfare. You group your fleets in predictable formations around
major worlds. Your logistics chains are vulnerable or communications systems
are easily interceptive, and your tactical doctrine has not changed
in centuries. She gestured toward the tactical displays showing the
human ships. Humanity has been studying warfare for our entire history.
We know how to fight efficiently and how to win quickly.
We do not waste two hundred years accomplish in nothing.
Tiants Officer Rodriguez spoke for the first time since the
alarms began, Command of Extello, Our nalysais of your conflict
shows that all three powers in this region are technologically stagnant.
You have advanced individual systems, but you have forgotten how
to innovate or adapt. Lieutenant Commander Park added, your species
relies on overwhelming firepar and heavy armor, but modern warfare
is about speed, deception, and precision. Strikes. Size and strength
mean nothing if you cannot hit your target. Fixtello looked
around the room desperately. This is madness. Even if your
ships are more advanced than they appeared, you only have
a dozen vessels. We have hundreds of ships throughout this system,
in thousands more throughout the Confederation. Jun smiled again that
cold expression that was becoming familiar. Ender, How many human
ships do you think are really in a system? Twelve?
We counted them as they arrived. Look again, shuntouched her
day pattern. The tactical displays a dedd with new information.
Suddenly the system was full of human ships. Dozens of
vessels that had been completely invisible were now showing on
the sensors. They surrounded every Zaffrean position and covered every
possible escape route. Forty seven ships chun Announce, all equipped
with stealth technology that makes them invisible to your sensors,
have been here for three days, studying your fleet and
preparing for this moment. Creton stared at the display in horror.
How is this possible? Our sensors should have detected them.
Your sensors detected exactly what we wanted them to detect.
Rodriguez explained, human stealth technology is based on principles your
science has not discovered yet. We can make our ships
appear to be anything we want, or make them disappear entirely.
Chin walked over to stand directly in front of Extella.
But the real question, Commander, is not how many ships
we have here. The real question is what tr plans
to do with this region of space. What do you
mean humanity is expanding into the galaxy, Commander. We need
new worlds, new resources, and new territories for our growing population.
This region of space is what we need. Dick Stella
felt the cold fear growing in her chest. You want
to conquer us conquer now, Commander. Conquest implies that if
we see you as equals worth fighting, what we want
is for you to get out of our way. Chantan
to address the others after in officers who had gathered
in the meeting chamber. The Terran colonial government has concluded
that the current political situation in this region is unstable
and inefficient. Three powers fighting, endless wars, millions of casualties,
no progress for centuries. That is a waste of valuable
space and resources. Tye pause to let the sink end terrors.
Prepared to bring order and efficiency to this region. Worlds
that cooperate with human expansion will be allowed to maintain
the local governments and cultures. Worlds that resist will be
pacified and placed under direct human administration. You cannot do this,
Vexetella protested. There are laws, treaties, galactica cares that prevent
one species from conquering others. Chan laughed again. Laws, Commander,
you just spend two days trying to trick us into
signing a treaty that would have made humanity your slaves.
You have no moral authority to lectures about laws. She
gestured toward the technical display. Besides, who is going to
stop us at your feet? The hegemony, the collective. All
three of your powers combined could not match where humanity
can deploy in this region. Intelligent specialist Hate spoke up
for the first time. Commander, our Terror has been preparing
for galactic expansion for over fifty years. We have bel
fleets specifically designed to defeat the type of warfare practiced
by local powers. Yere ships are large and impressive, but
they are also slow and vulnerable. Our shield technology alone
makes most of your weapons infective, park added, and our
kinetic rippons can penetrate any armor you possessed. Chennauded the
year of a massive ship to ship battles is silver, Commander.
Modern warfare is about information, speed, and precision. Humanity learned
that less than centuries ago. Vextella tried one last desperate argument.
Even if you can defeat our fleets, you cannot govern
hundreds of worlds with different species and cultures. The logistics
alone would be impossible. Who said anything about governing chun
ask Commander Terror is not interested. In ruling over alien populations.
We want the planets, the resources, and the strategic positions.
What happens to the aliens currently living on those walls
is up to them. She walked over to the star
chart and the meeting table. Species that corporate what human
expansion can remain on their walls as autonomous populations. They
can keep their governments, their cultures, and their ways of life.
All we ask is that they stay out of our
way and provide reasonable access to planetary resources. And if
they refused Tune's expression Hardened, then they can find somewhere
else to live. The galaxy is a big place, Commander.
There are plenty of uninhabited worlds for species that do
not want to coexist with humanity. The meeting chamber fell silent,
except for the continued willing of alarms from the bridge.
Xceller stared at the human captain, finally understanding the true
scope of what was happening. You planned this from the beginning,
she said quietly, The innocent first contact, the diplomatic meetings,
the protection treaty discussions. It was all a lie. Not
a lie, chin corrected intelligence gathering. We needed to understand
how your species thinks. How your military operates, and how
you would react to various scenarios. You provided us with
all the information we needed. She gestrewed to her offices.
Lieutenant Commander Park learned about your fleet compositions and defensive strategies.
Science Officer Rodriguez analyzed your technology and identified its weaknesses.
Intelligent specialists, he studied your political structure in communication systems,
and I Chuen concluded, evaluated your leadership and decision making processes.
I must say, Commander, the results were disappointing. De Xstel
felt angerizing above her fear. He used us. He pretended
to be primitive seeking help, and we trusted you. He
trusted us because you are arrogant. Chun replied bluntly, you
assumed that any species would less advanced hips must be
inferior in every way. You never considered that we might
be deliberately hiding our capabilities. She walked toward the door
of the meeting chamber. That arrogance is why your species
has been fighting pointless wars for two centuries. You cannot adapt,
you cannot innovate, and you cannot learn from your mistakes.
As Chen reached the door, she turned back to face
Xtilla one last time, Commander, I am going to return
to my ship now. You have one eye or to
contact her superiors and inform them of the new situation.
What new situation? The Keplerman his four hundred forty two
system is not under human control. Any Zephyrian vessel that
attempts to leave without permission will be destroyed. Any vessel
that powers up weapons will be destroyed. Any vessel that
tries to send messages outside the system will be destroyed.
Chun paused. Your choices are simple, Commander. Surrender your fleet
and prepare to negotiate the terms of Zafaran withdrawal from
this region, or watch your ships burned one by one
until you change your mind. You would murder thousands of
beings just to steel our territory. Chan's expression never changed.
Commander or Turrer did not start this conflict. Your species did.
The moment you decided that humanity should become your slaves.
We are simply finishing it. She activated her communicator and
omitable this as Captain Champ prepared to return to the ship.
The diplomatic phase of this operation is now complete. As
the humans prepared to leave, Chun delivered one final message
Command of Extella, I suggest you use the next eye
a wisely contact your fleet commanders, your government, and anyone
else who needs to understand what is happening here. She
smiled that cold smile one last time, because in exactly
sixty minutes, the ten colodial fleet is going to demonstrate
what happens when primuterive valains threaten humanity. The door closed
behind the humans, leaving the Zafrin officers alone with their fear,
the shock, and the terrible realization that everything that thought
they knew about the galaxy had just changed forever. Command
of Extell stood alone on the bridge of the Sovereign's will,
watching the count on time or on her main display.
Fifty three minutes and twenty seconds remained until the human
deadline expired around her. A Brie which crew worked frantically
at the stations, trying to make sense of a situation
that had become a nightmare. A tactical displacered the true
scope of the human fleet. Forty seven warships surrounded the
Sefrian forces in a perfect sphere of death. Every escape
route was blocked, every defensive position was covered by multiple
firing angles. The humans had turned the Kevalim in his
four hundred forty two system into a trap, and the
Safrienns were caught in the center of it. Communications Officer
Ruven Thick still called out her voice, horse from stress,
any response from feet. Command. Riven looked up from her console,
her face pale with worry. No, Commander, the humans are
jamming all long range communications. Our messages are not getting through.
What about the other ships in our fleet? Local communications
are working, but barely. The human jamming is very sophisticated.
They are allowing us to talk to each other, but
preventing any contact with the outside galaxy. The Xtella nodded grimly.
Even the jamming showed how advanced human technology really was.
The Deaphrians had always thought their communication systems were among
the bam in the galaxy, but the humans were controlling
them like children playing metaurs. Doc Captain Mordic of the
heavy cruiser Rocheous Fury appeared on the main communication screen.
He was a veteran officer with decades of combat experience,
but to day he looked old and frightened. Commander, he
said urgently, my tactical officers have been analyzing the human fleet.
The situation is worse than we thought. How much worse
Those ships are not just advanced, their revolutionary. Our computers
cannot even identify half of their weapons systems. The energy
readings suggests they of five per levels we have never
seen before. Captain's Allure of the destroyer swift Strike joined
the communication channel. Commander, my science officer has been trying
to scan the human vessels. The hulls appear to be
made of materials that do not exist in our databases,
and their shield technology is completely unknown. What are you saying,
Deksal asked that she already feared the answer. We are
saying that if we fight these humans, we will lose,
Mordick replied bluntly, not just this battle, but every ship
in the fleet. They will destroy us completely. Fix Steille
closed her eyes for a moment, trying to think clearly
despite the panic that was threatening to overwhelm her. She
had been a naval officer for thirty years. She had
fought pirates, raiders, and enemy fleets, but she had never
faced anything like this. What about our allies, she asked?
Can we contact the hegemony or the Collective? Even if
we could reached them, Clara said, sadly, what would we
tell them that the primitive species has somehow developed technology
censers ahead of ores, that forty seven unknown ships are
threatening to destroy our entire fleet. They would think we
had gone insane. The timer in the display continued counting
down forty seven minutes and fifteen seconds. Meanwhile, aboard the
TCS Indomitable, Captain Sarah Chan stood in the ship's combat
information center watching her own tactical displays. The zephyrn fleet
was exactly where her intelligence officers had predicted it would be,
grouped in a defensive formation around their flagship, weapons powered,
but not targeted, jeals raised but not at full strength.
Status report, Chun ordered. Lieutenant Commander Park consulted his tactical board.
All ships report ready for combat operations. Weapons systems are
armed and targeting solutions are locked. Stealth systems are functioning normally.
Any movement from the Zephrian fleet negative. They appear to
be holding position and attempting long range communications. All upgoing
messages are being intercepted and Blockchun nodded the Zephrians were
behaving exactly as his psychologists are predicted when faced with
overwhelming fores, they would try to call for help rather
than take decisive action. It was another sign of their
military weakness. Science Officer Rodriguez looked up from her instruments. Captain,
I am detecting increased energy readings from several Zephyrine vessels.
It appear as they are power in up additional weapon systems.
Are they preparing to attack unknown? The energy increase is
consistent with either offensive preparations or defensive posturing. Chun considered
the situation. The Zephyrians were probably just trying to look
threatening while they figured out what to do, but there
was always a chance that one of their commanders might
do something stupid. Send a message to the ZEPHYRN flagship,
she ordered, remind them that any househole action will result
in the immediate destruction of their entire fleet on the
Sovereign's will. Communications officer rive and received the human transmission
and played it for the bridge crew. The voice was
calm and professional, but the words were terrifying Saprian vessels.
This is Captain Turn of the Terran Colonial fleet. We
have detected increased energy readings from your ships. Any vessel
that continues to power up webon systems will be considered
hostile and will be destroyed. You have been warned. The
CCEL immediately ordered all ships to reduce their weapon power
to minimum levels. She could not afford to give the
humans any excuse to rob of fire. The timer continued
canton down thirty five minutes and forty three seconds. Commander
Tactical Analyst cret And called out from his station. They
have been studying the human ship formations. I think I
understand their strategy. Blaine Kretin activated a holographic display that
showed the positions of all ships in the system. The
humans are not just surrounding us randomly. They have positioned
their vessels to create overlapping fields of fire that would
prevent any of our ships from escaping or providing mutual support.
He highlighted several human ships with red markers. These vessels
appear to be specialized for different types of combat. Some
are optimized for long range bombardment, others for coose range fighting,
and still others for anti fighter operations. What does that
mean for us? It means they have planned this battle
down to the smallest detail. Every one of our ships
is covered by the optimal human vessel for destroying it.
If we fight We will not just lose, We will
be slaughter the bridge Fell's island. Except for the humming
of machinery and the beeping of countdown timers, everyone understood
what Chrichten was saying. The humans had not just brought
superior technology to this battle. They had brought superior strategy,
superior tactics, and superior planning. Twenty minutes, eight minutes and
seventeen seconds remained. Captain Can checked a chronometer and opened
a communication channel to the entire Turan fleet, all ships.
This is Admiral Chump prepared for combat operations. We will
commence firing in exactly twenty eight minutes and less the
enemy surrenders. She had promoted herself to admiral for the
purposes of this operation. The Zephyrins needed to understand that
they were not dealing with a single ship, Captain, but
with the full authority of the tearing colonial government. Throughout
the human fleet, weapons systems, harm to life, political cannons
that could punch through any no Narma began charging their capacitors,
kinetic accelerators, loaded projectiles that would strike targets at significant
fractions of light speed. Mesil tubes filled with warheads containing
exotic matter explosives. The TCS Retribution, disguised as a merchant
vessel until thirty minutes ago, was actually a heavy battleship
carrying humanity's most advanced weapons. Its main garn was a
roulativistic killed vehicle launcher that could accelerate projectors to thirty
percent of light speed. A single shot from that weapon
could destroy a zaphrindreadnought. The TCS Vengeance had been pretending
to be a research ship, but it was really a
messile cruiser carrying over two hundred long range torpedoes. Each
torpedo had its own guidance system and enough explosive power
to level a city. Smaller human vessels carried swarms of fighters,
electronic warfare systems, and point of fence weapons that could
shoot down in coming projectors with perfect accuracy. The Zephyrin Fleet,
impressive as it looked, was completely outmatched. Fifteen minutes and
thirty two seconds, Commander Captain Mordig's voice came through the
communication system again. We cannot win this battle. We need
to surrender. Surrender. Axtella was horrified by the suggestion we
are the zephyrn Confederation. Navy. We do not surrender to primitives.
These are not primitives. Captain Zellar pointed out, we were
wrong about everything. These humans are more advanced than any
species in the galaxy. If we surrender, what happens to
our crews, our ships, our colonies. I do not know.
Mortar co admit it, but if we fight, we all die.
At least if we surrender, some of us might sarrive.
Axtello looked around her bridge at the officers and crew
who had served with her for years. These were good
beings who trusted her to make the right decisions. Did
she have the right to order them to die in
a hopeless battle? Ten minutes and ah eight seconds on
the Indomitable Chane received a priority message from Terror Command.
She read it quickly, then smiled with satisfaction. Lieutenant Commander Park,
She called out, signal, all ships. Terror Command has authorized
us to proceed with phase two of the operation. What
is Phase two, Admiral? Complete pacification of this region of
space the caplum in this four hundred forty two system
is just the beginning. Once we secure the ZEPHYRN Fleet,
we will move on to their major wells and military bases.
Chan act evaded the fleet communication system. All ships, This
is Admiral Chan. You are now witnessing the opening action
of Humanity's expunsion into this region of the galaxy. What
happens here today will determine whether that expansion is peaceful
or violent. She paused, then continued in a voice that
carried a cross base to every ship in both fleets.
The age of alien dominance in this region is over.
The age of humanity has begun. Five minutes and forty
four seconds aboard the sovereigns will Vexedia made her decision.
She could not save her fleet, but perhaps she could
save her CRUs open a channel to the human flagship.
She ordered channel opened. Commander the Extella took a deep
breath and spoke the words that would end her career
and change the history of the galaxy. Captain Chan, this
is command of Extella of the zephyrin Confederation. We dot DTP.
We surrender our offully to human authority. The count down
time has stopped, with three minutes and seventeen seconds remaining.
Kushin's voice came back immediately, cold and professional, command of Extella.
I accept your surrender order. Old Zephyrine vessels to power
down weapons and shields immediately, but paed to receive boarding parties.
Boarding parties, Human Marines will be taking control of your
ships to and shook compliance with surrender terms. Any recessance
will result in the destruction of the resisting vessel. Thextella
looked around her bridge one last time. Her officers stared
back at her with expressions of defeat and despair. The
Zephrian Confederation had ruled this region of space for over
three hundred years. Today that rule had come to an end.
All ships, she announced over the fleet Communitycation System, powered
down weapons and shields, prepare to be boarded. Anyone who
resists will be responsible for the debts of their entire crew.
One by one, the Zephyrine ships went dark, their weapons
powered down, their shields collapsed, and their engines went into
stand by mode. That once proud fleet became a collection
of help US metal hawks flooding in space. Human boarding
shuttles launched from the Terran worships carrying Marine US to
secure each Jeffrian vessel. The Marines were equipped with advanced
DAMA and weapons that made them merely invincible against conventional assistance.
Captain Chann opened a final communication channel to the defeated
Zephyrine fleet command of Estella. The Keffa four hundred forty
two systems now under the control of the Terran coloidal balvament.
Your ships will be as garred into a secure location
where your crews will be processed as prisoners of what.
She pulls, then added, iwan you to send a message
to your government and your allies. Tell them that humanity
has arrived in this regional space. Tell them that the
old order is finished, and tell them that any species
that opposes human expansion will face the same fate as
your fleet. The communication channel closed, leaving the Cephyrins alone
with their defeat. Later, as human marines secured the last
of the alien ships, see each unsent her final report
to TERRAKM Mission accomplished, Sepharin fleet neutralized with seroor human casualties,
Local assistance eliminated. Keplumanus four hundred forty two asistant secured
for human colonization. Ready to proceed with conquest of remaining
zephrin territories. She looked out at the stars, thinking about
the dozens of human fleets that were already moving toward
other alien worlds. The hegemony of cath and the Crystalline
Collective would be next, followed by every other power in
this region of a galaxy. Today had been just the beginning.
Tomorrow the real war would start, and when it was over,
this entire region of space would belong to humanity. The
age of human expansion had begun, and nothing in the
galaxy would ever be the same.