Announcement

**Hydro** · April 28, 2003, 12:59

Sparta, MY 2103

Corazon stood slightly in front of the command staff as they all examined the “ogre” as it had come to be called. It was off now and the best team of technicians the Spartans had just left after spending over three weeks studying the robot. When the senior technician left he handed Corazon the control pad and now she held it in her hand beside her leg tapping it against it.

“Well, what did the find out?” Corazon asked as she continued to stare at it, not bothering to turn around to ask the question.

“Colonel, absolutely nothing.” Replied master-chief Summers Booth.

Corazon turned and looked at Booth with a slight glare of anger. “What does that mean, nothing?”

“It means exactly what I said, nothing. This technology is so far ahead of us, even the technology we left behind on Earth was nothing when compared to this, Colonel.” Booth walked past Corazon and everyone followed her with their gaze as she walked up to the robot and began pointing at the legs.

“These legs are capable of speeds equal to our speeder at full velocity and they can crush solid stone up to two feet thick like it was tissue paper.” She then pointed at the main torso of the robot and rubbed her hand along the red armor it was incased in. “This armor is capable of withstanding any weapon we currently have in our inventory. We also tried to cut through it with our plasma cutting torch and it could not even scratch it.” She then reached into her pocket and took out a pointer and extended it and touched the right side of the robot that had two long tubes, about a meter long, that were encased in a crystal lattice. “These lasers, for want of a better term, can cut through every know substance we have like it was butter. They can also be activated to send out a shower of high energy pulses that when they hit explode and spare molten rock or steel or whatever it hits over a five meter area.” She then taped the top of the robot. “Up here in the targeting system it has the ability to see in almost every spectrum of light and can target, track and maintain a lock on up to 200 targets! This machine probably can do even more but as of yet we have not put it through its paces.” She then moved back to the torso area and tapped it with pointer. “In here is the power cell, we think, and it requires no recharging or refueling of any kind. This machine is self-sustaining. I suppose its one weakness would be want of spare parts. If any of the components became damaged or the armor was to crack we could not repair it anyway.” She then turned back to the group. “What is most aggravating about it is that it will not tell us more. It will not tell us how it learned our language, it will not tell us how to translate the writings on the ruins it will not do anything beyond a set number of commands it seems: attack, patrol, defend, off, on, fire, kill, move to here, move to there. That’s really about it. Perhaps in a century or more we might be able to unlock the secrets of this machine but not now.” She then collapsed the pointer into her hand and put it back into her pocket.

Corazon did not say a thing. Basically what had fallen into her hand was a weapon that had a limited combat life cycle of tremendous power. They could try and tear it apart for years and render it useless and never discover a thing. On the other hand the mere sight of this thing as it thundered into Sparta Command and stopped in the parade grounds had made about half of the city quake with fear. This was a weapon of last resort. When used it would destroy until it was destroyed in turn. The key was that she held that power and that would secure her fledging command for some time.

“I want a special bunker built for the ogre at once. I will keep the control pad locked in my safe so that the command staff only has access. For now we have the means to defend ourselves if attacked by whatever might be out there.” Corazon turned and began walking to the airlock. “What reports do you have on the scouts and second colony pod?” She asked as she moved to put her suit in order before going out.

“The colony pod crossed the land bridge and is safely on the other side. It should arrive at the future colony site next turn. Our scouts are still searching eastward for another land bridge to the east. Perhaps they might meet some of the other survivors of the Unity since it seems likely that if the magnetic field of the planet guided us to the southern pole it might have done the same for the others.” Replied her second in command Mike Mannsfield.

“Don’t count on it.” Replied Corazon. She was beginning to become very worried that they might find themselves on a small island cluster with nowhere to go and without the means to get anywhere. In some sense it might be good since the society the world she was beginning to build was a far cry from the one that Pravin Lal always talked about during their meals on Unity. But, he was now most likely dead in space or someplace else since she doubted that he had the stamina to withstand the rigors of this planet.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2103

“We’ve received some sensor data from our scout escorting our colony group through this alien vegetation. They’ve broken through and are in the river valley! Even better, there is a rainy sector in the river plain that will be prefect to provide the new colony’s needs. They’re best estimate is that they’ll be ready to establish a full working base within the year,” Minister Travis said.

“Excellent, Excellent!” the CEO said as he leaned back in his impromptu command chair. “Any word on the expected Unity Pods? Or the limits to this landmass?”

“No, sir. There are no Unity pods that we can see, and our very crude topographical data suggest we are on at least a small island, although there may be a bigger landmass to the southwest. At this point we just don’t know.”

“Keep me informed,” Nwabudike said. “Now, please send in the contract administrator since we have to complete the paperwork authorizing our colony pod.”

Travis smiled. He knew the history behind the polite contrivance of the ‘contract administrator’. Although he would never admit to the details, all he would say is that the CEO was a man who enjoyed life.

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2104

Corazon sat in the front row of the briefing room listening to Mannsfield give the first report of the daily briefing. Over the past few turns it had become customary for Corazon to sit the front row alone and then behind her in the four remaining rows sat the command staff, as they waited to give their reports at the daily briefing, along with their aides and staff. The briefing room was the largest room in the command bunker structure and it was used frequently to hold training sessions or for the junior staff officers to make reports to their respect section chiefs but the first meeting of the day was always the daily briefing at 08:00hrs.

“As you can see from today’s briefing book everything was quiet last night, nothing of any importance to report today. So if Major Hudson would like to be next he can bring us up to speed on Captain Mars’ progress.” Mannsfield turned to his right and exited from the podium as Major Hudson shuffled behind Corazon and walked up to the podium.

“Good morning. I have both good news and bad news to report. If you will turn to section three of the briefing book you will find the latest map that was compiled by Captain Mars. As you can see we are on an island.” A few groans from the rows in the back rows could be heard at the sound of this. “Yes, I know, I know, we all hoped that there would be land bridge out there to connect us to the large continent that long range radar shows is there. But, that is not the case. However, the good news is that Captain Mars reports he has found an excellent colony site at the far end of the island. It offers high terrain and is strategically positioned to give us good coverage to the east. The geographic details are there for everyone to review so I won’t waste time up here today going over them. You should all review them and become familiar with the topography just in case any of you find yourselves over there. The one point I will bring up is that the area to the east the mountain range is rather dry; perhaps it has something to do with the wind patterns that blow west to east but suffice it to say there are few areas of fertile soil and free moisture. That makes the site Mars found all the more important. Lastly, Captain Mars will now be working his team of rover scouts westward and explore the area there. Now I think Major West has something for us.” Hudson shifted to the right just like Mannsfield and Major West came up to the podium.

“Good morning. Please open your briefing books to section four. In there you will find the latest map coordinates and status of our colony pod in the west. As you can see the pod is now three sectors west of us and it should arrive next turn at the colony area and begin construction of the base, which should be completed by 2106, one turn to get there and another turn to set-up. Once the base is on-line Captain Mi Li Woo will assume command of the base and will operate independent of Sparta Command. The colony site chosen has been changed to this area here as shown on page section four page three. The alternate site has higher elevation, over 1,000 meters above sea level and it has a river that should provide and excellent boost to energy production for the site. Unless the command staff has any objection to the new site it will stand.” West looked around and no one spoke. “Also, on page five you will find the training schedule for the base garrison. Captain James Stinger will take his infantry company out for training and maneuvers to the north. They will be gone for some time but with the ogre here at Sparta Command we have ample protection for the base. Colonel Santiago has already approved the request and the training schedule. When the garrison returns they should be a lean and mean fighting machine, a cohesive unit. Captain Stinger has done an excellent job with his company and Major Harza has developed and excellent training protocol for the company. Since landing there has been little time to get the troops into the field and this should do wonders to hone their skills and build a stronger team. I think Major Stewart is next and last if I believe.” Again the shuffle occurred and Major Stewart had the floor.

“Good morning. If you will turn to the last section of the briefing book you will see in detail our progress with the ogre. Which is to say there is none. However, the weapons system of the ogre has been very helpful to us in learning about the optics of focused energy weapons and it has given our research technicians some insight that could prove useful in making any future breakthroughs in energy weapons. Our work with the ogre is still on going but if the ogre would be needed none of what we are doing would inhibit it at all.” Stewart turned and exited the podium. As he left Corazon stood up and turned around.

“Excellent work. Progress and positive action even after the bad news we got from Captain Mars about the land bridge. We always need to look for the positive, turn the situation around so it works for us. There is no such thing as a bad position on the battlefield just a poor commander who doesn’t know how to take advantage of what he has been allotted. Now, ON YOUR FEET!” Corazon barked and they all jumped up and saluted and she saluted them back. “DISMISSED!”

*~*~*~*

Morgan Antimatter, MY 2104

“Yes, this is a fine location,” Morgan said as he looked over the flood plain. “In fact, it is almost all that I could hope for considering we are on an alien world. The rainy sector is already producing a fine assortment of food, and an adequate amount of minerals for our infant industrial facilities.”

Senior Aide Rothchild nodded. After all, what was there to disagree with? His statements were self-evident. Morgan took a deep breath through his breathmask and wished, not for the first time, that he could experience this world without such a cumbersome contrivance. Perhaps one day he would alter the planet, making its atmosphere and biome more amenable to humans.

“Ah,” Morgan continued, “those are trivial. The real prize is the energy! With this base we have increased our energy output from a mere 3 terraquads to seven due to the rich hydro power that is so easily accessible!” Morgan turned to his aide. “Any update from our scientists? What is their revised schedule for a breakthrough based on this new and quite generous budget they have been given?”

“Sir, I was hoping to save this for the state dinner tonight, but since you are interested I’ll tell you now. They expect a breakthrough in a mere 4 years, and have decreased their research cycle from 11 to 6 years!”

Morgan smiled and his stark white teeth contrasted with his dark ebony skin.

Erin Rothchild saw this and shuddered. Morgan’s smile had no joy in it – it was the smile of victory, or one of a conqueror.

“Excellent!” the CEO said. “Excellent. See that they give us something useful, and be sure to mention a large bonus if they are successful. We reward success, Rothchild.”

Erin nodded and Morgan turned away to look over the rich plain again, and Erin wondered what happened to those who aren’t successful?

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2105

Captain Mars deployed the scout rovers in a crescent attack formation and they were now racing at top speed towards the creature. Through the mag-glasses the creature was almost indescribable, as if drawn from someone’s nightmare. It had a circular torso about three meters thick and on the top, or head, it had perhaps eight to nine trunks or tubes that flailed about and at the base thousands of tiny tendrils that seemed to propel it forward. As the team began to approach the gunners in each rover stood up and manned the high velocity machine gun/grenade launcher mounted to the roof of each vehicle.

“Do not open fire until I give the order! Confirm command by the team!” Mars yelled into the comm.-link.

“Team one-Affirmative!”
“Team two-Affirmative!”
“Team three-Affirmative!”
“Team four-Affirmative!”
“Team five-Affirmative!”
“Team six-Affirmative!”
“Team seven-Affirmative!”
“Team eight-Affirmative!”
“Team nine-Affirmative!”
“Team ten-Affirmative!”
“Team eleven-Affirmative!”
“Team twelve-Affirmative!”
“Team thirteen-Affirmative!”
“Team fourteen-Affirmative!”

All teams confirmed the order and Mars continued to watch through the mag-glasses as the rover got closer. The creature did not seem to even notice their advance as the rovers continued to close the distance and then it began to jerk and swing violently. That was enough for Mars.

“All teams- OPEN FIRE!” He yelled and every gunner in each rover began to spray machine gun fire and rapid-fire grenades into the creature. The bullets and grenades began to tear into the creature blasting bits of it to pieces and then it began to vomit or spew thousands upon thousands of tiny spores into the air that when they hit the rovers or soldiers began to burn into them. The re-breather units on everyone’s environment suit began to get clogged and overheat. However, the grenades and machine gun fire were quickly taking a toll on the beast or creature. In a matter of three minutes only one or two tubes or trunks were left and the creature was sagging badly to one side and then it simply exploded apart as one of the grenades managed to lodge itself inside, deep inside, and blew it apart. The team closed the distance to the remains of the creature and came to a stop. Mars jumped out first and looked around at the rover crews. Some of them looked a bit beat up and some definite repair time was needed for vehicles and environment suits but everyone was alive.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Antimatter, MY 2105

“I see that our territory to the northwest is truly fine,” Morgan said as he looked over a few quick annotated old-fashioned photographs. They showed a rolling and rainy terrain with a moderate to significant amount of mineral resources. “But, this,” he continued, pointing to the lands to the north at the headwaters of Morgan River Valley, “is not acceptable.”

“That is xenofungus, Sir,” Rothchild said.

“I know that!” Morgan said. “I want it removed. There are likely useful materials under this pink blight, and that will not do. I also understand it has impeded almost all efforts at movement by our scouts.”

“Except along Morgan River,” Rothchild said. “Our scouts have made fine progress to the north and southwest, and have fully plotted the river.”

Morgan looked at Rothchild and then at his map and decided not to press his irritation at the alien plant growth. “Any word on what lies beyond?”

“So far our reports are scanty. Our northern scout will be in open terrain and has orders to move north-northwest. We’ll see how big our territory is at that point. I’m more hopeful of our scout to the southwest, although they may be blocked by fungus. Our hopes for a large territory rest on them, I’m afraid.”

“See that they don’t enter the fungus unless necessary. The scouts have been delayed too much as it is. Any small diversion is worth the decreased risk of total failure!”

Rothchild nodded and accepted his judgement, which was easy since it was what he would have done in his place.

**Hydro** · April 28, 2003, 13:00

Sparta, MY 2106

Corazon walked into the main conference room of Sparta Command for the morning briefing report. Everyone in the room jumped to attention as Lt. Colonel Mannsfield yelled “COMMANDING OFFICER ON THE DECK!” Corazon glanced around the room as she walked to her customary seat in the front room for the briefing. Since the discover of the Unity supply pod by the Sparta Command garrison she had been able to implement one of her ideas, official uniforms for every Spartan soldier, tech and worker. The pod had been filled with a vast amount of energy supplies along with a bounty of tools, computers, raw building supplies and fabric. Once all the items had been transported back to Sparta Command Corazon had decided it was time for the Spartans she had wasted no time in designing the new uniforms. Prior to this everyone had “cobbled” together whatever was available and tried to make them into uniforms. Soldiers, workers and technicians would all get issued several sets of new uniforms in accordance with their job classification.

The soldiers were all dressed in knee high black boots and the pants were black and fairly tight with a wide red strip running down the side and were tucked into the boots. A high collared tunic of dark gray material trimmed in red made up the top part of the uniform. The tunic was fairly big and looked more like a jacket in size then a shirt with the bottom edge of the tunic ending just below the top of the thigh. The tunics had a large black belt that carried a pistol holster, ammo clip holder and a knife scabbard. Officers had an additional cross belt that went over their left shoulder and hooked to the belt. Over each right breast pocket was an identification plate of silver metal with the name of the soldier and above that any awards they had earned. Rank markings were pinned to epaulets on each shoulder and on the high collar on the right side were the insignia for the city the soldier was from and on the right which unit/profession he was assigned to. For headgear everyone wore a black beret with the Spartan symbol on it.

Technicians wore the same boots and pants but for the shirt they wore a knee length smock, gray in color that was double breasted and trimmed in gold, it looked like a large laboratory coat. The smock had very large wide collars that had a pin on one side indicating which city they came from and on the other side one that indicated which technical branch they belonged to. Technician rank markings were placed just above the nameplate over the right hand breast pocket. Underneath the large lab coat they wore a simple white collared shirt and they wore a gold colored beret with the same Spartan symbol on the front.

Workers had the most utilitarian outfit of the three, a black jumpsuit and black boots. The jumpsuit had numerous pockets and all rank and classification markings were made of Velcro patches that were stuck on the upper arms and over the right breast. Workers could either wear a red construction “hard hat” or a beret.

The field uniforms for soldiers was the same jumpsuit design as the workers but had camouflage color of browns, grays and some orange (to simulate the fungus) and brown boots. All insignia and rank markings were either black in color or the same color camouflage as the uniforms and attached by Velcro patches just like the workers. Environment suits and facemasks were of the same color and design as the field suits.
Today was the official “first day” that everyone would be required to wear the new uniform.

Corazon moved across the room and sat down in here customary seat.

“You may begin Colonel”

“Thank you Colonel Santiago. Now, the first order of business for all commanders will be to insure that the uniform code has been implemented and that their subordinates are following it to the letter. Demerits will be issued to any soldier, technician or worker that that does not follow the new dress code. Is that clear?” Mannsfield waited for about a minute while looking around the room. This was done more to emphasize the new rule than actually expecting any questions.

“Now, I have been told by Colonel Santiago that Major Hazra will be next to talk about a new policy to be implemented at the start of next month.” Mannsfield turned and stepped down from the podium. Major Hazra quickly walked to the front and stepped briskly onto to the platform.

“Over the past month Colonel Santiago and my team have been working on a new training program for every Spartan citizen. With the discovery last turn of the native life on Chiron it has become clear that we live on a very dangerous planet. Add that to the fact that there might be descendents of the aliens that built the ruins we have discovered and that makes the picture even worse. What we intend to do is implement a basic training program for every person to insure the security of our people. This will be in addition to any current training that is in place. Starting at age 12 every Spartan child will have to begin a regime of weapons and hand to hand combat training. This training will include infantry tactics and skill development. Should any attack ever be directed at one of our cities every Spartan, like the ones from ancient Sparta, could defend these walls effectively as trained soldiers could. Perhaps the descendents of the aliens that built the borehole or the other places migrated to the equator areas, we just don’t know. If they did move north perhaps it was due to the creatures we have found here recently that drove them off or the fungus, we just don’t know. That “not knowing” is why we need to be prepared. Our people will be the best soldiers and we will not falter in our defense. Our people will survive. Now, if you turn to section one of the briefing book you will find all of the details for the new program laid in stages for implementation. Currently we have very few children to train but we do have a great number of technicians and workers that have no military training at all. These people will get top priority in receiving training first. Under the current plan it will take about five turns to get everyone trained and get the children started but it will be worth the effort. The children will undergo a more extensive training protocol than the adults but once again the effort will pay for itself. We will get a better crop of soldiers to pick from and our cities will be defended far better than they are now. Thank you.” Hazra quickly nodded his head towards Corazon and then turned and left the podium.

The next person to walk up the podium was Major Hudson.

“Good morning. If you will all turn to section three of the briefing book you will find the current status of our rover scout unit. Captain Mars has been ordered to move westward to investigate the area around the borehole since no further exploration can occur in the east. If you read the intelligence report from Captain Mars he believes that the creature he encountered was attracted to his scouts because of their travel through the fungus. We should try to avoid any travel through the fungus if it all possible. I wou-” Mars was interrupted by Colonel Santiago.

“Perhaps we should conduct a few experiments to confirm this. It would also offer a chance for all of our troops to engage one of these creatures so that they can become battle hardened. All the training in the world does not completely prepare you for the real thing, don’t you agree Major?”

“Yes and no Colonel.” Hudson folded his arms behind him. “Perhaps sometime in the near future we could “attempt” such a maneuver but I would recommend further investigation. What if we were to attract not just one but ten or even hundred of these lifeforms could our forces withstand that? I don’t think so. However, I will coordinate some research along that line with Major Hazra and Master Chief technician Boothe.”

Corazon merely nodded her head.

“Now I believe Major West will conclude today’s briefing.” Hudson walked down from the poduum and Major West walked up.

“Good morning. If you will turn to section five you will find a proposal forwarded by me to Colonel Santiago. In that proposal I have recommend that base commanders be given new titles, Commandant. As commandant the base commander will have special responsibilities that cover many areas and by removing the commandants from the direct chain of command this will elevate them to a new status. Colonel Santiago has agreed to this change so from today henceforth I will be addressed as Commandant West along with Commandant Woo. After the meeting you can review at your leisure the change in command structure and how that pertains to operations.” West nodded to Santiago and stepped down. The primary reason Santiago had for changing titles was simple, turf wars. The rank of commandant would be given certain “special” licenses so that in time of emergency they would have supreme power over all forces in their territorial boundaries. The commandants advisory committee was to be established as soon as Woo got her base up and running and that committee would be independent of the command council. Each commandant would have the ability declare a state of emergency and assume both tactical and strategic control of any forces that were nearby.

West nodded to Santiago and stepped down and Corzaon stood up.

“I know we are making a lot of new changes but I feel that these are crucial improvements to our command structure. In some sense today is truly the first day for the Spartan people. We are people with a new cause, a new purpose. We will survive and thrive on Chiron no matter what it takes!” Santiago barked at them and they all jumped up nearly in unison and saluted her. Santiago looked at each one of them and then returned the salute.

“Now, lets get to work!”

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2106

“Rothchild,” Morgan said. His voice boomed across the conference table.

He looked up.

“I want you to recall our two garrisons to Morgan industries and Morgan Antimatter. They have done their duty and surveyed a good amount of territory, but I am concerned about the native life forms. If some should prove hostile then our cities would be defenseless, and I will not stand for that.”

‘Yes, sir. Shall I recall the Unity garrison or the native garrison to Antimatter?” Rothchild said.

“The Antimatter garrison is expendable. Recall the Unity scout. Have them travel down that fungus infested river as soon as possible, and have the Antimatter scout continue traveling southwest,” Morgan stated.

“They are running out of room that has no fungus. Evenually they’ll have to try to penetrate.”

“Understood. Tell them to do their best,” Morgan said. “Now, to business. We expect our first breakthrough in a year or two, and it had better be good. Also, our new capital is poised to experience a major expansion due to the nutrient lode we have been fortunate enough to harvest. We need to consider what we will do with this expansion, and how it will be effected.”

Morgan looked his advisors in the eyes, looking for weakness or indecisions. He found none.

“Here is my plan…”

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2107

Colonel Santiago watched from the platform as the 1st infantry company performed a pass a review by platoons. The unit had returned several days ago from their training exercise that had lasted two turns. The men and women that returned were now highly motivated, disciplined and ready for any situation that might arise. But most importantly they worked as a team with one purpose to accomplish the mission.

Santiago snapped to attention as second platoon marched past in precise order and in step. Corazon whipped her hand up for a salute while they marched past and crisply dropped it as the last rank of soldiers went by. There were a total of six platoons in the 1st infantry company; four combat platoons, one support platoon and the headquarters platoon. Corazon continued to salute each platoon as it passed and as the last platoon marched past her heart was filled with pride in their accomplishment.

“Colonel Mannsfield, have you ever seen better troops?” Corazon asked.

“No Colonel I have not. I have always liked the old soviet army parade step as the preferred marching technique. It just looks better.” Mannsfield replied.

“I agree Colonel, that is why when I was writing the manual at arms regulations I borrowed that particular marching step. I had toyed with using the old nazi Germany marching step but I felt it was lacking the style or should I say the rhythm that this one offers.”

“Did you ever consider the standard march step used by most armies?” Mannsfield asked.

“No, not really. This marching technique requires intense training and practice. Those others marches only require you to shuffle about with no hardly any practice at all. No, this will be the new Spartan battle march!” Santiago snapped to attention again as the commanding officer of the 1st infantry company marched to the platform and saluted, which Santiago acknowledged with her salute.

“Captain, dismiss your soldiers for some well earned leave.” Santiago turned and walked down from the platform onto the parade grounds with Mannsfield in tow.

“Colonel, I did have one other issue to bring to your attention today. Just before the pass and review I was informed by one of the technicians aides that they might have made a breakthrough in laser technology. Studying the ogre seems to have paid off. We will soon have our own laser weapons.” Mannsfield reached into his environment suit and handed Corazon the message.

“Once we get the first proto-types done I want the 1st to be equipped with them as quickly as possible and then send them back out for field testing. Understood Colonel?” Santiago asked as they reached the air lock to the command bunker.

“Loud and clear!” Mannsfield replied with a grin on his face.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Antimatter, MY 2107

“Better and better,” Morgan said to himself. “The west holds even more rainy sectors, and another river! Our colonization will go very well, oh yes!”

Even as he prepared for bed the good CEO had visions of grand cities with towers that reached for the sky, and an economic powerhouse that would be unparalleled in the history of humankind. With this power he would be able to finally tap the entrepreneurial spirit of humanity and, once unfettered by stodgy ideologies and hollow theories, allow him to conquer his surroundings. The limp-wristed ecologists were gone, as were those who espoused idiotic military, religious, or political theories. All of these served to cloud the mind.

In this respect Morgan knew his mind was free of such rubbish. Ecological, religious, and political positions were to be taken when they were advantageous, not because of any innate value they might hold. Indeed, the very idea was ludicrous, since they had no value at all! They were mere constructs.

With that happy thought Morgan slipped out of his silk robe and crawled into bed.

*~*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY2108

Corazon watched the two fighters make a slow circle around the ring. She was studying them intently trying to match up abilities and attributes. Basically you had the classic match up strength versus speed. Cadet Ilene McShay was 5’ 8” and was an excellent kick boxer and the fastest cadet in the training class. Cadet Mike Thomas was 6’ 5” and weighed in a 245lbs of pure muscle. Speed versus strength

“Colonel, who have you bet on?” Major Harza asked.

“I wagered on cadet McShay.” Corazon replied as she continued to study the two fighters. “McShay might look like she is the weaker of the two and I am sure that is exactly what cadet Thomas is thinking and that will be the reason why he will loose. 90% of the time most fights are won or lost before the battle has even begin. If you look at any battle throughout history one side failed to anticipate or correctly estimate the true strength of the opponent. In this case, cadet Thomas has been bragging about how easy this match will be. That is what this battle will turn on.”

Thomas suddenly began to throw a series of blows at McShay who easily dodged the blows and then quickly aimed a kick at his leg, just behind the knee, that caused Thomas to collapse. Once Thomas hit the floor McShay leaped into the air and crashed down on him with all of her weight, her knee ended up right on top of his throat. Thomas began to thrash about but McShay kept the pressure up and Thomas quickly passed out from lack of oxygen. The bout was over.

“You see Major. I was over before it began.” Corazon stood up and snapped a salute towards the young female cadet who had hardly broken a sweat during the match. She quickly returned the salute, pride filling her eyes. Corazon moved out into the aisle and out the doors in the back of the auditorium, her bodyguards following a respectful distance. The bodyguards had been a new requirement for all senior commanders since the attempted assassination on Lt. Colonel Mannsfield. Not everyone it seemed was as overjoyed with the new Spartan lifestyle. Some had even left the new colonies hoping to build a new life. Corazon had ordered no pursuit or rescue was to take place for these people. Better that they left and allowed the remaining members to grow and prosper without the distractions of these dissenters. Only about a hundred people had fled many of them were United Nations administrators who had refused to take the Spartan oath of allegiance since they still clung to some belief that Pravin Lal was alive. Over the past seven turns they had become more sullen as the reality of their situation become clear. Many of them had worked as laborers during that period, secretly plotting to overthrow Corazon and her command council but the bulk of the people seemed to be with Corazon and her new “order”. Some supplies were stolen and about 124 people just disappeared overnight with two haulers. Tracks seemed to indicate that they went west into the unknown but chances are they were dead by now.

Corazon entered the airlock with her new “team” and let room cycle the air out and then the outer door opened. It had been a long day but her evening had been profitable. She had forbidden gambling for energy credits amongst her officers but other “wagers” could be made. For instance, Lt. Colonel Mannsfield would have to shine her boots for a month and Major Harza would have to iron her uniforms.

The elite body guards watched as Colonel Santiago began to leave the airlock and for a few of them they actually thought they saw the Colonel smile for once.

**Hydro** · April 28, 2003, 13:01

Morgan Antimatter, MY 2108

“CEO, I am happy to present to you the first of many fruits of our labor: speculations for the terraformer!” Rothchild said.

Nwabudike almost glowed. He reached over and took the datapad from his loyal aide and started examining the designs.

“This will allow us to improve the productivity of our already fertile lands,” he said as he looked over the specifications. “Farms, trees, roads…good! Ah, and solar panels! Excellent! And sensors for defense.”

He looked over at his scientific team, who were happy the CEO was happy. “How much time will these improvements require?”

“It varies,” Dr. Albert said. “Roads go in the quickest in as little as a year for flat terrain. The longest are solar panels due to their complexity. The rest, like farms and forests, lie somewhere in between.”

“What is your recommendation?” Morgan asked.

“Considering the richness of our land, I recommend roads,” the doctor said. “This will allow us to connect our holdings, and expand more quickly. It will also add efficient to efforts to modify the land when you decide it is profitable.”

Morgan nodded. He could understand and agree with everything this man was saying. He liked that – no multi-syllable double talk or evasions. His statements were quick and to the point, and devoid of any arcane high-mindedness. Good.

“I agree,” Morgan said. “Change the production here at Antimatter as soon as possible, and I authorize the allocation of up to 25 megacredits to complete the terraformer in an expedient manner. After the colony pod at Morgan Industries is complete start a former here.”

The team nodded. So far everything had gone as planned.

**~*~*

Sparta, MY 2109

Corazon walked into the main research lab with the command staff and was promptly greeted by Major Blake Stewart, command staff member and director of all military research and development.

“Good morning Colonel. If you will follow me I will show you what we have built.”

Stewart guided them over to the far side of the room and opened the large service door that opened up to a long corridor. Just on the other side of the door was a laser cannon. The cannon sat on a pneumatic tripod attached to a tracked sled, very similar to the haulers used to carry cargo around. However, this modified hauler had a large power cell attached to it along with a several other devices that Santiago could only guess what it was. On the top of the tripod was a nearly three meter long tube that had a crystal lattice network, very similar to the ogre weapon, wrapped around half of the weapon. At the rear of the cannon was a firing control station and sighting mechanism.

“As you can see Colonel, this version is the heavy weapons version of the laser. This laser cannon is the infantry version but it can be very easily modified to mount on a vehicle. We have also made laser rifles.” Stewart reached under a table and pulled out a red and gold rifle, highly polished and sleek. In some ways it looked like the cannon but it had a trigger and stock. “They lack much of the firepower of the cannon but are far more effective than our assault rifles. This first production model is yours Colonel.”

Santiago reached over and took the weapon and put it immediately into her shoulder. The long corridor was the weapon testing range and she immediately pulled the trigger. There was a second or so delay, no recoil, and then a thin jet of white energy erupted from the tip and instantaneously tore a chunk of concrete from the wall.

“It has a magazine of 12 charges and then you have to replace the battery cell. But an infantryman should be able to carry a considerable number of cells. Also, we are working on a portable charging station so units can reload their cells quickly. Now, let me show you the cannon!” Stewart walked behind the cannon and flipped a few switches on the control council. A loud hum began and the crystal coils began to light up. Stewart seemed to be watching the control panel and when a green light came on he reached to the side of the panel and hit a switch. The air in the room got very warm and then a blinding white light flared at the end of the cannon and a beam of energy shot at the wall and blew it to bits.

“Colonel, we should be able to equip every infantry unit with these in a matter of a few years then the rovers.” Stewart reported. Corazon walked down the long corridor till she reached the end observed the damage up close. The cannon was by far more powerful than the machine guns or grenade launchers by far. This was a weapon of pure power.

“Excellent work Major. I intend to award your entire section with a citation for work on this project. Well done!” Corazon yelled as she quickly walked back down the hall.

“Now, show me how to fire this!” Corazon asked as she reached for the controls.

*~*~*

Morgan Antimatter, MY 2109

“And I christen this fine device Terraformer One!” Morgan said. Then he swung the bottle of ‘champagne’ at the front of the ungainly device. The glass bottle shattered, sending white frothy liquid that everyone was pretending was bubbly all over the vehicle. There was a ripple of appreciative laughter as Morgan wiped some of the froth from his lapel, grimacing at the smell.

The terraformer started up on cue. A gust from the air exchanger started its work, blowing dust and small loose debris over the honoraries, most of who backed up to get out of the way. Morgan and his consort took a few steps back but didn’t retreat. He was too excited to care about cleaning his good suit. This was too important a day!

Terraformer One lumbered away. Or, more accurately, the horde of vehicles that were called Terraformer One lumbered away. It was a significant investment, but Morgan knew it was worth every joule.

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2110

Captain Piotr Pavelvich walked slowly up the second borehole and looked down. Behind him his team of rovers had set up a defensive position around the area and were now working to set-up a camp for the night. This site was in much better condition than the other borehole since no fungus was growing here.

“Sir, Sparta Command is on the line!” His communication sergeant said as he walked up behind him. Pavelvich turned and took the headset and put it on.

“Command this is Captain Pavelvich, OVER!”

“Captain this is Colonel Mannsfield, I authenticate command response: one-tango-one-oscar-four-tango. Do you confirm?”

Pavelvich reached into this pocket and took out his codebook and looked up today’s code, it was a match.

“Confirmed Colonel. I wish to report the discovery of a second borehole. It is located two sectors due west of the first one. The area is not, I REPEAT, not covered in fungus so mining operations could begin at once, OVER”

“We copy Captain. Good work. Continue westward as planned. Captain Mars’s scout company will join you once repairs have been made to his rovers that should only take a turn. Command out!” The line went dead.

Pavelvich handed the headset back the sergeant and motioned for him to return to the base camp and then he turned around and looked back down the vast hole. The power source that operated the conveyors or lifts had yet to be found, if one existed at all. This site could provide a treasure house of minerals and materials for the Spartans and it was all theirs for the taking. Today had been a good day.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2110

“Our energy is of no use unless we use it wisely, and this is a wise decision,” Morgan said to his small cadre of advisors.

“But its 28 megajoules! That’s 25% of our total energy reserves! And it is equal to seven years of our energy surplus!” Minister Wiggins said.

“Producing this colony pod now will be a great boon to us since it will be able to produce resources four years ahead of the normal production. I ask you to consider that, in terms of resources, those four years will almost pay us back. And that does not count the growth we will gain, and the ability to lay a firm claim on more territory. We will make more energy in the future. I assure you of that,” Morgan stated.

Wiggins still looked uncomfortable, but finally nodded.

“Next, our scout is still traveling southwest, and they have discovered that there is a likely land bridge to territory to the south! They have been given orders to immediately start exploring this area. This is grand news since our known territory to the east is likely to be limited, although we do not know for sure. Rothchild, has our terraformer been deployed?”

“Yes, sir. It has headed west and will construct a road, and then a forest. The managers at Antimatter considered a farm, but they knew you were likely to rush build the colony pod so they thought better of it. The forest may expand into the blighted fungus to the west, which is a good thing. It will also provide an impressive boost to minerals and energy for a modest four years investment in terraformer time. By comparison a farm will take four years, but it is not likely to spread, and we have plenty of rainy areas that can be utilized without artificial augmentation,” he said.

“Excellent. Please convey my approval to the managers at Antimatter for their fine decision making, and let them know they will be eligible for a bonus at the end of the fiscal year,” Morgan stated.

“This concludes this meeting. Adjourned,” he said.

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2112

Corazon watched the live video feed from the 2nd scout team communications team. The third borehole had been found just south of the second one. The third borehole was in the same condition as the second, free of fungus, and very operational. Corazon watched for a few more minutes but turned around and looked at the large map on the situation table. The new map information had been downloaded into the system and the main map had been updated. It was becoming clearer that the Spartans were on an island, just like their namesakes. An island had both positive and negative aspects to it. It all depended now on sea power. The key to conquering more territory, developing more land and securing more resources could only be accomplished by sea power.

"Colonel, new video feed coming through now." One of the communication techs reported.

"Thank you." Corazon turned to watch the new feed on the monitor but she was not really watching. She had already decided that the colony pod set to be completed next turn would leave for the west, not the east. In the west there was more resources and more importantly the boreholes. There were only three viable sectors for production and for the colony site which meant growth would be slow. No, the west first then east.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2112

Morgan Industries, MY 2112

Morgan watched the colonists as they left, and he felt the exhilaration he always felt when he rolled the dice. Risk was a wonderful thing when used in moderation, and it was a useful tool to determine who had the grit and determination to be a true leader. Another key was to ensure the risk wasn't foolish. The key was to risk taking, and not to punish those who took considered risks but happened to fail. Failure was not wrong, but repeated failure was symptomatic of incorrect leadership.

This colony pod was but one of many risks Morgan had taken in his life. The most risky action he had ever taken was to surreptitiously board Unity, but that had given him his biggest payoff. Now Earth was a smoking ruin, and Morgan had a whole world to exploit and use to attain his vision.

Yes, life is good.

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2113

The command staff had assembled for an impromptu meeting in Colonel
Santiago's office. She had called them together as soon as she had been
given the confirmation that Sparta was truly a island.

"Now that we are all here you most all know the news that the second scout
company reported, that we are on a island, not a continent." Corazon looked
around at everyone assessing their moods. It was not good.

"I intend to order our completed colony pod to move westward towards the
boreholes and setup a colony on the site proposed by the colonization
committee. We will not proceed with building a laser infantry company here
at Sparta Command but rather begin a second colony pod as soon as possible
to set-up in the east. At that point we will have colonized all the viable
terrain that we can. I am issuing orders today that as soon as we complete
our next breakthrough that master-chief technician Boothe will concentrate
her staff on researching ship designs. Major Stewart I am also ordering you
to assist Boothe and her people to complete the project as quickly as
possible. Is that clear?" She looked at both of them and the quickly
saluted in response. There had been some friction between them since they
both competed for resources and materials to boost their respective
projects, military and civilian.

"Dismissed!"

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2113

“It looks like there is a land bridge to the south, sir,” Rothchild said. “Should the scout go further south?”

Morgan considered this for a moment. “No. Have him advance to the southwest or west at this discretion. I don’t want our scouts getting bogged down in more of that damned fungus. Give them standing orders to move through fungus free territory when they can and to report their decisions to me. This order has a sunset clause of three years.”

Rothchild nodded and made a note in his log.

“And have the colony pod continue northeast until it is three sectors away from Morgan Industries,” Morgan continued. “Have them establish the colony unless local conditions are inappropriate. We need to get them productive as soon as possible, and a terraformer can fix many problems given time.”

Another note was made in the log.

“That is all. Send in the minister of science. I am eager to hear what he says about our impending breakthrough.”

*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 2113

Corazon watched as the colony pod departed from the parade ground at Sparta Command and secretly held her breath. That colony pod was crucial to the survival of the Spartan people. It would establish a new colony just two sectors north of Hero’s Waypoint and it would complete its mission in four turns. Time now as of the essence and the Spartan people could not afford to have the colony pod travel over nine sectors to the site on the far west side of the island. No, it had been decided that building bases would come in “baby steps” and the Spartans would “creep” outwards rather than jump. More colonies up and running meant more resources added to the collective whole. Another advantage to the site chosen was that it offered access to a rich nutrient sea sector just off of the coastline. The colonists could use the added nutrients to boost their food production and thus quickly build up the population to staff another colony pod. Minerals, spare parts and tooling were not an issue since they had found the Unity pod so plans were already in hand to “crash build” the fourth colony pod when sufficient population was ready to staff it.

“Colonel, may I ask what you said to Captain Kring as he left in command of the colony pod?” Mannsfield had eased himself closer to Santiago so he could discreetly ask the question.

“I told him to be careful, to be prepared and most importantly to be fast! He has to get the new colony up and running in four turns or I would break him down to a private.” Corazon responded without even looking at Mannsfield.

“I see, how did Captain Kring take that?”

“At first he looked shocked but I think he understood when he fired back, “Colonel, I don’t like peeling spuds.” So, I can only assume from that he does understand and he knows what he needs to do to get things done.” Corazon turned and began to walk down the platform back into the command bunker.

“You wouldn’t really bust him would you Colonel?” Mannsfield replied as he fell in behind her and slightly to the right side.

“Does it matter? If he fails then perhaps the entire Spartan nation might fail as well.”

*!*!*!*

Morgan Industries, MY 2113

“Yes, this may be useful,” Morgan said as he reviewed the files on Social Psychology his science advisors had just presented to him. They examined his face and body language to determine more subtle messages and got…nothing.

A silence continued, and his court waited.

“Yes,” he continued, “there are possibilities.” He activated a few more pages in the report and then looked up. “It seems there are two possibilities – strive for the Secrets of the Human Brain, or Industrial Automation. Which do you recommend?”

“Sir,” Dr. Watson said, “I recommend striving for the Secrets – it promises to have multiple side benefits.”

“I disagree,” Dr. Sing said. “We must attain those technologies that complement and are aligned with our goals, and while the Secrets are somewhat seductive, it will side tract our advances by at least 20 years! And, it will be for naught if some other faction makes the breakthrough first.”

Morgan held up his hand, signaling he had enough of the debate.

“We will proceed on our present course,” he said. Sing was obviously pleased, and Watson deflated.

**Hydro** · April 28, 2003, 13:03

Sparta, MY 2114

The duty scheduled had been changed by Colonel Santiago to accommodate a special meeting or planning session that was to last all day. Everyone was assembled in the briefing room waiting for the Colonel to arrive. Most of the senior command staff had somewhat of an idea as to what the meeting was about since they had been tasked over the past turn to work on portions of “project Sparta” as it was called. Only Lt. Colonel Mannsfield, the project coordinator and Colonel Santiago knew the complete plan. The doors to the conference room opened and Colonel Santiago entered along with her new adjutant Captain Longstreet. Everyone in the room stood up at attention until she walked across the room and sat down, Captain Longstreet sat in a chair just to the right of Santiago and quickly pulled out several notebooks.

Lt. Colonel Mannsfield walked to the front and onto the podium, “ At ease, take your seats.”

Mannsfield walked over to the lectern and opened the first of two spiral notebooks and then reached for the projector control. “ Good morning. First, I am sure everyone understood the orders concerning today and you have made arrangements for your aides or staff to take care of business for you today. We will most likely be here all day reviewing our new operational plan, “project Sparta.” Before we begin I will give a brief overview of the situation and our proposed plan then we will begin by a section-by-section table time of implementation. You can follow along if you turn to the first section in your notebooks.”

Mannsfield darkened the room with the projector controls and then on the main screen a map of the known area of Chiron was displayed.

“As you can see this is a map of Sparta. That is now the “official” name for the island we now occupy. Make sure all future inter-office memos and documentation use this as the reference for our home island.” Mannsfield picked up a laser pointer and began highlighting several points. “First, you can see our current colonies as shown here and her and our proposed future colony that Captain Kring is now working towards.” The screen changed and now four more colony sites were highlighted in yellow. “Here are the new proposed sites for all future colonies which when completed would bring the total to seven colonies, including Sparta Command.” The room was a “buzz” for a few minutes as people absorbed the new information. “All right, quiet down, we are not a bunch of housewives here, we are soldiers! Now the primary reason for this change in colonization was brought about by our discovery that we are truly on an island just like our ancient namesakes. So it became clear to Colonel Santiago that we need to borrow a page from the ancient Spartans playbook, so to speak. Colonel Santiago wishes to talk briefly on this subject, Colonel” Mannsfield sidestepped from behind the lectern and waited for Santiago to get up and walk up to the podium and then handed her the projector/conference room control.

“Thank you Lt. Colonel. Now as you can see our current situation is forcing us to adapt, to improvise so that we can overcome any obstacle, and we will! The ancient Spartans were faced with a similar situation. The island they occupied was mountainous, rough and lacked fertile soils and resources. The island they occupied was small in comparison to the land that their rivals controlled. The tactical and strategic situation forced the early Spartans to make fundamental changes in their society. They focused their resources and training to make the their soldiers the best in the world so that they could go out and claim no lands so their people could prosper. We know that to our east and west are large continents and that once we get sea transportation should be easy to reach and conquer. I want to be very clear about something, so listen up, it was by accident that we landed here but it will be by our choice, our will, that we will carve out a new world for our people.” Santiago watched the expressions of those in the room. For some of the junior officers this new policy would only offer them a chance for advancement, a challenge. For the more senior officers who truly understood the meaning of her statement it meant something totally different. Just fourteen turns ago the Unity spaceship carried a team of people all with one goal in mind, one purpose. However, the disaster changed all of that. Now she was asking them to kill, to conquer those same people who just a short time ago were their bunkmates or fellow comrades. Brother killing brother. This is how it had to be. There was no reason to train and train and never use it for the logical extension, conquest. Corazon believed that the if there were other survivors then they would be already building large settlements and prospering, claiming land rightfully belonging to them as well. They would not want to share, no, she was sure of that. No, the only way they would be willing to give the Spartans land would be by the use of force.

“So today we will review operation Sparta as it is called. The grand plan to aim our people towards one purpose, the conquest of Chiron. This is not a task for the faint of heart and I expect some of our soldier citizens might have problems with the plan. You need to identify them and weed those soldiers out. We will transfer them to second line units and in time the younger soldiers we are training will take their places. These new soldiers will have no ties to the past only our future!” Corazon turned slightly and moved to sit down but before she did the officers in the room began to clap and stand up showing their approval. Today was a new day for the Spartan people and their manifest destiny!

**Hydro** · April 28, 2003, 13:05

Morgan Collections, MY 2114

“Modest, but excellent,” Morgan said as he surveyed the sparse terrain around Morgan Collections. “I am more pleased that we have expanded than the virtues of this land. It is much less favorable than those of Morgan Industries or Morgan Antimatter. In fact, it is in inadequate.”

“The base manager has requested 25 megacredits to complete their terraformer six years ahead of schedule,” Rothchild said.

“Tell them it is approved, and I recommend they concentrate on a farm, then roads, sensors, and a forest,” Morgan said.

Rothchild made a few notes, and then shunted them to the Morgan Collections advisory council.

Morgan looked over at Rothchild. “Are the latest exploration results back from our scout?”

“Yes,” he said as he pulled up a schematic of the maps.

Morgan looked them over. “This is most hopeful. But, we need more exploration! So much to do, so little resources. We will fix that.”

Rothchild nodded, and believed every word.

*!*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 2115

Colonel Santiago walked into the research labs at Sparta Command along with her adjutant Captain Longstreet and her elite guards. Corazon walked up to the master-chief technician Boothe and her lead scientists.

“I was told that your team of researchers made a breakthrough?” Corazon asked.

“Yes Colonel, researcher Kyle and Simon made a significant breakthrough in genetic research. Due to their efforts we have unlocked the secrets of the human genome.” Boothe reached over and hit a button next to a computer monitor and on the screen a graphic of the DNA/RNA strain popped up.

Corazon watched for a minute and then asked. “And this means what?” Her face had turned sour by the expression she gave. Boothe realized that she had best jump into explanation mode fast or face a severe ass chewing.

“Colonel, with this breakthrough we can now “tweak” our genetic code so that our soldiers are stronger and faster, our scientists are smarter and our workers will have more stamina. We can apply this technology to children still in the womb by use of gene therapy as well as adults. Also, we can reverse the process, so to speak, and we can breakdown the molecules and materials of any carbon based material. Each city can be equipped with recycling tanks that will boost mineral, energy and food production!” Boothe hit another button and the screen began to flash computerized models of the new recycling tanks and projections on the beneficial effects of gene manipulation. Corazon again watched for a minute or two then turned back to Boothe.

“This is fine work. However, the next breakthrough had best be in the field of ship designs. IS THAT CLEAR! I have ordered all teams of researchers, both military and civilian to focus their efforts on this area. Once that is completed then we refocus our efforts towards military applications. Your main emphasis, your charter master-chief, is to generate the pure research that military technology needs to make advancements. But for now all research effort goes into designing a transport vessel, IS THAT CLEAR!” Corazon turned and left the room followed by her guards. Captain Longstreet stayed behind and watched her leave along with her elite “black” guards.

“Master-chief, if you would be so kind as to give me the data on this so that I might prepare a proper report for the Colonel. In the future you might want to get my advice on presenting these “breakthroughs” to the Colonel. I can help guide your responses so that she can appreciate the value of your research.” Longstreet took a disc from Boothe and then turned and left the room.

Boothe stood there for some time as her team of researchers milled around and then went back to their labs. She had thought Corazon would understand the value of this project since it would now double the mineral resources of each base at a time when resources were at a premium. However, for now Corazon wanted only one thing, sea power. She knew Corazon had other reasons, scouts had reported seeing four Unity pods, or what they thought were Unity pods floating just off the coast. With a transport they could scoop them up and perhaps uncover more resources or power or energy. That was the only thing that truly moved Corazon Santiago nowadays.

*!*!*!*

Morgan Antimatter, MY 2115

Morgan leaned back in his chair and concentrated on Morgan Antimatter Administrator Hsung. “I am gratified that your population has grown to 2000 persons. That is truly commendable, and suggests your efforts at managing our second base have gone well. But, I must insist that your extra population concentrate on collecting resources from the newly-established forest. In terms of raw numbers, we gain more in terms of the total food, minerals, and energy than the rainy sector you staff has recommended. It is all a matter of resource allocation,” Morgan said.

Sarah Hsung nodded, but her lips were set tightly. Morgan saw this and added, “I should add that I will be putting a commendation into your yearly review on the recommendation and completion of your colony pod. It shows your far sightedness to understand that expansion is our key to success. While it will be eight years before it is done, it will be a boon to all of us. I’m sure you will agree.”

“Of course,” she said. Morgan observed that her demeanor was less tense, particularly after his comment on the commendation, which practically ensured a healthy bonus at years end.

“I’m glad we have reached an understanding. Please give my regards to your staff,” Morgan said, and then he signed out.

Morgan glanced at the now gray screen and thought, not for the first time, how valuable a carrot was over a stick. Indeed, if the carrot was big enough almost none could resist, and mixing self interest with faction interest was the key to successful leadership.

*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 2116

Captain Kring walked alongside the huge colony pod crawler as it moved up the hill. Kring’s headset began to chirp alerting him to an incoming message, his right hand pressed the open frequency button on his left arm control pad.

“Captain, this is flanker one. We have reached the colony site. All looks to be in order sir. Your orders?”

“Secure the area, await our arrival. OUT!” Kring closed the channel.

He stopped and looked around and then trudged up the hill. It took him about an hour to reach the crest but the view was magnificent. Behind him were the rocky flats they had just cleared, nasty terrain. To Kring’s front the terrain was the exact opposite. The future colony site would occupy a sector of land that was just above 700 meters above sea level. It was fertile but lacked any abundant mineral resources. The coastline to the north was beautiful and the sea beyond was a gorgeous blue. Kring unlike many of the other Spartans had a deep passion for land and terrain and his interest was not only based on a military perspective, rather more an artistic atheistic. Suddenly his headset began to chirp again he flicked the frequency open again.

“Captain Kring, rovers spotted to our north, moving in fast!” A very excited soldier reported.

“DAMMIT, calm down and give me a proper report!” Kring fired back.

“Sir, flanker three reporting in, unknown rovers approaching at vector 270, approximate size 13 rovers in all.”

“Acknowledge flanker three.” Kring hit the a few more buttons on his wrist control pad.

“Unknown rovers, unknown rovers, this is Captain Kring of the Spartan Federation. Identify yourselves!”

“Kring, this is Captain Mars of the first scout regiment. I have been ordered by Colonel Santiago to place myself, and my unit under your command, to be your garrison unit. Colonel Santiago wants you to use your supplies to begin another colony pod ASAP. She figures that since you have access to that rich nutrient sea sector it should be a snap to feed these hungry colonists and get your population ready to split off to set-up another colony. Command has been trying to get you for days but it seems that the area you just when through blocked radio traffic so they sent me to pass you the message.” Kring had turned to the north and just now he could begin to see the rovers cresting the hills beyond.

“Understand Captain Mars. Rendezvous with us at the pre-selected coordinates for the colony site and we can then begin building the colony and some bunkers for your rovers. Kring out.” Kring was slightly worried. Mars was his superior, by date of rank, but once the colony pod was up and running Mars would be the junior since a commandant outranked a captain.

Kring began to pick up the pace as he walked to where the colony crawler was still plodding along. Next turn they would have the colony up and running and then he could pin on the new commandant crosses to his uniform and then really begin to work.

*!*!*!*

Morgan Industries, MY 2116

“Request approved,” Morgan said. “The allocation of 25 megacredits will allow us four years of terraforming, which will potentially be invaluable. Moreover, it will allow Morgan Industries to start another grand effort, should one become available.”

Manager Warren almost preened in delight, and he accepted Morgan’s praise with a nod and a smile.

“Well done,” Morgan continued. “Be sure to inform me of your progress with your terraforming efforts.”

“Now,” he said. “Next on the agenda is the proposal to extend the road from Morgan Antimatter toward the west…”

*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 2117

“Ironholm? Ironholm? What type of name is Ironholm for a base?” Santiago asked her sparring partner Lt. Colonel Mannsfield.

“Commandant Kring’s love for history and topography seemed to have come together in this instance. A “holm” is a piece of land, an island, found in a river or lake. The colony site has a small stream that runs through it and the colony was built on both sides of the stream with the command bunker and operations center built on an island in that stream. The stream is very small but when it rains very hard the stream can become a river, or so I am told. The “iron” part comes from the idea that the people who live there will be tough as iron.” All through the explanation Corazon continued her attack on the large punching bag as Mannsfield held it. “You will hear this in the morning briefing but our scouting report was correct the food resources Ironholm has access to are astounding. Kring will be able to double his population within seven turns! We should have a colony pod ready at Ironholm in about ten turns just about the same time as Hero’s Waypoint will have theirs done and Sparta Command. In about ten turns we will double the size of the Spartan nation to six colonies.”

“Impressive and important but what of the research on ship design?” Corazon asked as she switched over to delivering kicks to the bag.

“Excellent news as well. With the added resources of Ironholm we should have our next breakthrough in seven turns. Master-chief technician Boothe still cannot determine what breakthrough might occur next. She is working her people as hard as they can but scientists sometimes discover things during their research that they do not anticipate or even plan for.” Mannsfield had to brace himself more since the kicks from Corazon were beginning to drive him backwards.

“I suppose I should be “pleased” Lt. Colonel, but I am not. I would rather have ships taking those colony pods to other lands rather than building them here. But the plan is the plan and wishing for transport ships will not make them appear sooner.” Corazon began a new set of attacks combining both kicks and punches.

“I understand your frustration Colonel but our people are working as hard as they can. Operation Great Hunt will begin next turn to hunt down and exterminate any more of those native life forms on our island. I am sending you a report from a scientist on Boothe’s staff that suggests that just hunting them down will not stop the threat. He believes that as long as there is fungus out there for them to grow and live on that we can never truly exterminate them.” Mannsfield really had to put his weight into the bag now that Corazon was hitting it with all of her strength and skill.

“If that is the case,” Corazon stopped her attack on the bag and stepped back as she watched a hole in the bag spill little foam pieces on the floor. In her last attack on the bag she had punched her hand almost all of the way through it. “all we need to do is burn every sector of fungus to ashes.”

She turned and walked back into the weight room area to finish her morning exercise program. Mannsfield reached over and took an adhesive patch from the shelf and slapped it over the hole and made a mental note to himself so that on his way out to ask the attendants to repair the bag, again.

*!*!*!*!*

Morgan Industries, MY 2117

“We now have three terraformers in operation, sir,” Rothchild said. “One is creating a road to the west, which will expedite exploration and settlement of the rich lands to the west. The second will create a road to the east, and forest the lands as they go, including the nutrient lode that Morgan Industries relies upon. The last terraformer is forming a farm to boost the growth of our newest city.”

Morgan looked over the plans, then the holos of the areas. Once done he went over the statistics and did his own quick comparison.

“Very good,” he said. “The farm is needed, but otherwise roads do needed to expedite colonization and terraforming. We will remake the face of Chiron into our image, and to our advantage. Yes, this is excellent.”

Rothchild knew this report would cheer the CEO. Now, he had to give him the bad news: the slow progress on the colony pod at Morgan Antimatter.

*!*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 2118

Captain Ira Morning crept slowly from his field tent and stood up slowly while adjusting his environment suit. Morning flipped down his night vision goggles and looked around checking that the night guards were patrolling the area. Dawn was slowly arriving; the sky to the east was just a slight shade of lighter blue/black than the rest of the sky. Morning reached down and touched his communication control pad on his left wrist.

“Sergeant Adams, Lieutenant Mitchell, please report to me ASAP.” Morning closed the frequency and slowly walked to the command tent. When he arrived and cycled through the airlock and went in he found both men he had radioed already inside.

“I should have known you would beat me again.” Morning began removing his re-breather mask and released the seals on this suit.

“Sir, I would not be much of a sergeant if I ever allowed you to beat me now would I?” Adams walked over and held out a cup of coffee, or more correctly synthetic coffee.

“Thanks sergeant.” Morning raised the cup and took a deep drink. “Okay lieutenant, what’s your plan?”

“Sir, here is the operational plan the second rover company will follow for the next several turns. Now that we are on the fringes of the fungus fields we can begin our recon into it and hopefully flush out any of those creatures.” Mitchell pushed over a map that had a path marked in red ink with notes and markings showing each where each days search would end.

“Looks good to me Lieutenant. Make sure each rover team leader gets a copy and all other operational communication frequencies so in case they get loss we can find them.” Morning stood up and began to reseal his suit. “Okay then, lets break camp and do some hunting!” Morning watched as the other two men began to seal their suits and leave with him. Lieutenant Mitchell leaned over to the radio operator and ordered him to break down his equipment so the command post could be packed and stored for use at the next camp. Morning walked into the airlock with Adams and Mitchell and then let the airlock cycle and sergeant Adams opened the outer door.

Once outside both of the officers moved to their tents and began to break them down while seargeant Adams began to kick the other tents to get the men up and moving. The sky was getting lighter and the Captain wanted to begin his hunt before first light.

*!*!*!*

Morgan Industries, MY 2118

Nwabudike could barely contain his rage. “An animal destroyed our terraformer from Morgan Antimatter?”a

“Not an animal, sir,” Rothchild said. “It was a native life form that originated in the fungus based on the fragmentary information transmitted by the crew. Apparently it is a colonial organism, or it displays an amazing degree of cooperation. It is, however, insidious; its attack was mental. The terraformer crew was paralyzed, and then…larvae…were implanted into their cerebral cortex. They hatched and ate most of the host before we arrived.”

Morgan blanched, and most of his rage seeped away. This was something of nightmares. “Why haven’t we seen this organism before?”

“Unknown,” Rothchild replied. “It may sound hard, but it might be a good thing that it didn’t arrive near a city. I don’t know if it would have survived. It could have killed everyone there; but it is hard to know.”

The CEO nodded slightly. “Tell our valiant scientists that they need to find some defense against these horrors. Also, we need to find a way to get some forewarning, and possibly a way to remove the xenofungus.”

Rothchild wrote this down and Directive 2118-34A.

**Hydro** · April 28, 2003, 13:06

Sparta, MY 2119

Colonel Santiago was not in a good mood today. Today she would have to sentence two soldiers for capital crimes they had been found guilty of. She walked through the halls of the main command bunker, her elite “black guards” in tow, with a determination and anger she had not felt in some time. After a few more minutes she reached the assembly room back entrance where Lt. Colonel Mannsfield, Major Hazra and Major Stewart were already there, all three of them seemed surprised to see her there.

“Good morning Colonel.” All three of them commented as they snapped to attention at her approach. She quickly returned the salute.

“Alright are we ready?” Corazon asked.

“Colonel, you do not have to attend this part of the trial. We were the seating members of the tribunal and found them guilty and sentenced them, all that is required by the Spartan code of ethics is that you confirm that they had a fair trail and that the punishment is in accordance with the regulations.” Mannsfield replied.

“Dammit Lt. Colonel, I know the regulations, I wrote them! The bottom line is that two men are going to be shot, and I had the final word on that. So I intend to at least look them in the eye and tell them that, that’s the least they deserve.” Corazon fired back.

“Sorry Colonel, I meant no offense. We were the officers that sat on the tribunal it was our decision to find them guilty of their crimes.” Mannsfield replied looking slightly indignant.

“Mannsfield I know it was your decision, you followed the law to the letter. What makes me so furious about this situation is that I really want to hold the officers responsible for this, this mess, accountable.” Corazon replied as she slammed her fist against her side. The two officers in question were 2nd lieutenants in charge of two infantry platoons based at Hero’s Waypoint. The officers had set nearly impossible standards for the soldiers in their platoons to meet in order to out “best” the other platoon. Each of the officers had punished the whole platoons when one man or women failed to perform to the extraordinary levels they had set. The result was that in each platoon one private got singled out as the worst soldier and the men and women took it upon themselves to punish them. The result was too deaths, one in each platoon. During the investigation the sergeants came forward in each platoon confessing that they had ordered the beatings in hopes of motivating the failing soldiers. Both sergeants claimed they had not received any orders from their officers but acted upon their own initiative to get the attention of the failing soldiers. The officers were exonerated but the sergeants now faced the death penalty.

“Colonel, I can not agree with you more about this but the sergeants both claimed they acted upon their own volition.” Mannsfield replied.

“Yes, but they were driven to it by their officers. So after we deal with this I want you to issue orders for both of those “officers” to be transferred to my staff. I intend to teach them the right way to lead soldiers and God have mercy on their souls.” Corazon turned slightly and walked into the assembly hall and took a seat behind the large table at the front of the room. Behind her Mannsfield, Stewart and Hazra followed her and sat down. Corazon once she had sat down looked around the room and found the two officers in question and locked her gaze on them. In a few minutes they happened to notice that she was starring at them and started to look around so that they would not meet her eyes. Mannsfield stood up and began reading the judgment to the two condemned men who were both standing at attention.

Corazon kept thinking of those two dead soldiers and her blood boiled. Discipline and training were the backbones of the Spartan nation and she was damned if two 2nd lieutenants were going to destroy what she had worked so hard for. No, they would soon learn to become leaders of men or they would learn the hard way what failure really feels like.

*!*!*!*

Morgan Antimatter, MY 2119

Morgan looked through the binoculars, which had been set on the maximum setting. He was scanning a pre-designated area to the west.

“The mindworms have entered the forest, sir. You can see them in the binoculars where they are highlighted in red,” Rothchild said.

The CEO concentrated for a moment, then gasped. “My god! That is what killed the terraforming crew?”

“Yes,” Rothchild said.

“They’re a bunch of pinkish worms!” Morgan said.

“Yes, sir. That is one of the more widely accepted theories.” Rothchild continued to watch Morgan as he concentrated on the worms, his gaze moving slightly.

Morgan dropped the binoculars from his eyes and looked at his senior aide. “They’re moving this way,” Morgan said.

Rothchild nodded. “Yes, sir. They’ll be here in a month or so, if we don’t do something about it.”

“Mobilize the garrison, and tell them to attack when they think they have the best chance. We can’t let this horror get through! Our citizens are our most valuable asset. That is paramount!”

Rothchild’s eyebrows went up ever so slightly. He wouldn’t have put it exactly that way. It was rather…cold. But, it was also accurate.

*!*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 2120

Santiago watched the battle drills through the mag-glasses and was impressed. The infantry platoons were advancing on the hill under heavy fire but they were still advancing and with only light casualties. This was the last day of exercises for the Sparta Command garrison regiment and then they would be returning for some much earned rest and relaxation. The advantages of having the alien death machine under their control allowed the Sparta infantry garrison more time for training. What pleased her the most was that next turn this regiment would be the first to receive the new laser weapons. Enough weapons had been built to equip an entire regiment, five combat companies with laser rifles and heavy laser cannons.

“Colonel, it looks like alpha company will make it to the hill first?” Major Hazra announced as he looked over at her.

“I will bet you your recreation chits that bravo company makes it first Hazra.” She replied.

“Your on Colonel!” He quickly put his mag-glasses back up to look and sure enough it looked like Bravo Company was beginning to make the assault as well. He swept the glasses back to the left flank and noticed small puffs of smoke erupting around alpha company. Claymores.

“How did you know Colonel?” Hazra asked as he lowered his glasses.

“Its what I would have done. That flank was the weakest area to defend. I would have expected the strongest attack to come from that direction. Lieutenant Reed knew that as well, as we can plainly see from his attack vector and he also knew that lieutenant McPherson had anti-personnel devices as part of his equipment list. Any competent commander would have expected that the enemy might put those claymores there to slow the advance. Now, look! Bravo team crested the hill but it looks like they took heavier than expected causalities during the final assault.”

Hazra looked back into his glasses and trained them on the area. Yes, the Colonel was right lieutenant Gonzalez had lost nearly ½ of his soldiers during the advance but the hill was his.

“How would you grade this exercise Colonel?” Hazra asked as he pulled out his D.I.T.O.S ( Data Information Tactical Operational Storage ) unit and waited to log in Santiago’s reply.

“Give your highest marks to Lieutenant Gonzalez. Even though he lost ½ of his team he capture the hill and the objective. Losses were acceptable based on the difficulty of the terrain. I would give high marks to lieutenant McPherson for defending his position under superior numbers but he could have been more creative in his defense. If he had shifted even some of the claymores to the right flank he might have been able to stall the attack by Gonzalez. If Gonzalez had lost even a few more men I doubt he would have taken the hill. As for lieutenant Reed I would give him the lowest evaluation. He walked his men into an ambush that anyone should have anticipated. Our leaders must think two steps beyond so they can anticipate and adapt to the situation.” Corazon lowered her glasses and looked at Hazra. “I would also rank your performance during this exercise low as well. You made a bet with me without truly analyzing the entire situation and you also failed to see the obvious trap. Place yourself on extra duty for the rest of the month and make sure your recreations chits are transferred to my account before the end of the day.” Corazon turned and walked down the hill.

Hazra stood there stunned for a few minutes and then realized that she was right. He had failed to see the trap as well and he was responsible for the training these soldiers in the first place. Hazra kicked the ground with his foot and chuckled to himself. He admired Santiago for her brilliant military intellect but wondered if she had one friend at all. She drove all of them relentlessly in all areas of their lives, military training, manufacturing production and research and yet she always seemed to be aware of every detail. What worried him now is what would happen if she ever made a mistake because if she did he would be certain it would cost the Spartans.

*!*!*!*

Morgan Antimatter, MY 2120

“Hold tight. Flamers up!” Sargent Fiero yelled. The mindworms had just entered the forest, and he had his orders – attack.

The back rank lined up, finally. Everyone was new at this, and many were new to Chiron, being the first generation to grow up with this planet as home. Fiero eyed them to make sure they didn’t do anything inappropriate, like break and run. Green recruits might do that unless they were given ample encouragement.

“Sir,” his radio crackled. “They’re coming down the road.”

“Roger that,” he said in his lapel mike to acknowledge his scout’s report.

“First squad,” the Sargent yelled, “forward! Gogogogogogogo!”

The men and women hesitated only briefly, then ran forward and screamed at the top of their lungs.

“Second squad, gogogogogogo!”

The first meeting of Morgan troops and a mindworm was fierce, and bloody. They won, but at a cost. Many of the men were hurt, and some killed.

“Sir,” his radio crackled again.

“Yes,” he said in a distracted voice.

“We just got a squirt from Antimatter. There are more worms coming from the fungus!”

“****!” he said. “Squads, regroup. Back to base. Now!”

**Hydro** · April 28, 2003, 13:07

Sparta, MY 2121

Major Blake “Bulldog” Stewart was a man driven by one thing, the pursuit of weapons, or more correctly the research into weapons. He had been the logical choice to lead the department of military research, development and procurement. Stewart’s department had oversight and control over all military research and development along with coordinating weapon and equipment procurement. Over the past five turns though his department had been weakened considerably by Colonel Santiago’s orders directing all efforts, by all departments, towards ship designs and not weapons. Stewart and his people had been working closely with the Boothe’s scientists to come up with designs but in truth Boothe was really running the show. Since the directive came down from the Colonel he and Boothe had seen the need to meet daily along with their staffs to coordinate research and resources. Stewart was on his way to meet Boothe to go over today’s work. He had arrived early at Boothe’s office only to find her talking with several civilians just inside the door to her office. Boothe saw him enter and quickly made her goodbyes to the three men who promptly turned and left the room. Stewart watched them leave and then turned to Boothe.

“Who were they?” He asked.

“Those three men represent a new manufacturing company out of Hero’s Waypoint. They came to see me to solicit work contracts for their new company.” She replied as she waved him into her office.

“Over the past few turns many we have seen an increase in the need to “farm out” some of the work and research.” Boothe commented as she moved into the room behind Stewart and then walked around her desk and sat down.

“I am surprised they own anything? The Spartan Code is very clear that only military veterans can own any property beyond ownership of their homes and those men do not look like they ever served in the military.” Stewart sat down across from Boothe and reached into his pocked to pull out some papers.

“They do not own anything, they are the managers. The companies they own are all “owned” by veterans who sit on a board of governors. Those men just manage the day-to-day affairs of the business. Many of our veterans do not understand the complexities of business and as such they hire these men to run their companies. The veterans invest their pensions into starting up the companies and they hire these men to run them. So in truth they do follow the letter of the law but perhaps not the spirit.” Boothe pulled out her paperwork as well as she talked.

“So what are they asking for in particular?” Stewart asked.

“Well, basically they want a contract to provide manufacturing services to us. They are astute business people, they saw the same problem that I have seen for some time, that we will need both military and non-military items and the question is how do we allocate production resources and manpower to accomplish it. What these men want is a contract to produce any non-military items that we might need which would free up our “state” controlled factories for military production. The bottom is that when we need the guns do we really want to fight over which factory has to re-tool from civilian production to military?” Boothe had folded her arms while explaining this as if this were a lecture to an inferior student.

“Boothe, I also saw the problem as well and I suggested to the Colonel that we simply nationalize any industry we need to meet the needs that we have.” Stewart replied somewhat irritably

“Yes, I suppose we COULD do that and then somehow come up with a compensation plan to pay back the veterans who invested their funds into the business but that would mean we would pay twice for something. No, I intend to propose to Colonel Santiago that we do accept competitive bids for non-military and even some low-grade military production contracts. This will free our resources to focus on the more critical military production items and key research. In time, we might even want to turn over some of our military research to these people and have them do it for us.” Stewart snorted at the idea but Boothe uncrossed her arms and held them out to him as if pleading for him not to jump to any final decision. “Think about it Major Stewart. We authorize civilians to do the pure research or theoretical work and then they turn it over to us for free in exchange they can use that technology for only civilian applications. Most importantly your office would control those lucrative contracts and you could expand your research greatly which would give you a great boost towards military applications.”

Stewart sat there for a few minutes and then said, “Tell me more how this might work?”

Boothe settled back into her chair and thought no matter where you go or how far you go the military industrial complex would always be there, like some cockroach. But it was still the best way she could think of to get the biggest bang or bullet for the buck. She also knew that in time both hers and Major Stewarts departments would eventually be the largest ones in all of Sparta and with that both of them would be very powerful indeed.

*!*!*!*

Morgan Industries, MY 2122

The great CEO was more than relieved; he was elated. The garrison at Morgan Antimatter had survived, barely, against the onslaught of two mindworm boils. It had been a very near thing, and it was a good thing that they had taken the initiative and attacked. Heaven help them if they had been surprised!

Even better was the 20 megacredits of the ‘planetpearls’, the wonderful result of the eradication of the vermin. It had been immediately apparent that these organic residuals had an unprecedented amount of energy, and that it didn’t take much innovation to harness this boon of any purpose deemed appropriate. They were also easy to store. In sort, they were the perfect energy source!

That was good news, and Morgan put down that report and picked up the report of the latest research from his laboratories. They have made a breakthrough – Biogenetics. It was immediately apparent that some recycling tanks that increase minerals, food, and energy. As Morgan read through this he had an idea, turned, and called up the current production schedule of Morgan Industries. It was depressing – with their miniscule industrial production it would take decades to complete the recreation center. With a few keystrokes he changed the production target to a recycling tanks, and then authorizing 60 megacredits to complete it in a year. Yes, it was a lot, but it would pay for itself in 20 years in terms of raw resources. That didn’t even add in the benefits of growth and other production that can occur in the interim.

Yes, this was good. Very good.

*!*!*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 2121

Corazon had called a meeting of the senior command staff before the morning briefing. She glanced around the table looking at each of them sizing up the situation.

“Thank you all for coming. The report I have in front of me is unacceptable.” She threw it across the table as it slid to a stop just near the end. It was a joint report from Major Stewart and Master-Chief Tech. Boothe about research progress. In two possibly three turns the research department promised to report their next breakthrough but as of now there was little indication as to what it would be.

“I want answers! I want progress! Soon we will launch three more colony pods and within a decade we will have doubled the number of cities and at that time where do we go then. The report recommends that we build recycling centers next at each city to boost resource production but I would rather be building ships!” Corazon sat down and glanced around the table.

“Colonel, I know that you are frustrated by this process but scientific progress is not something you can snap you fingers at and say today we will know this!” Boothe had answered Corazon’s demand for answer with fire and passion. “My teams are working around the clock trying to engineer a power plant systems to work in a hull design that will be functional on these seas. It is tough work and we have limited resources. Our worst problem is lack of computers. We simply do not have enough computers to complete the analysis on the designs we have. So we are forced to do it by hand or should I say with our brains. We will make a breakthrough but you need to be patient.” Boothe by the end had calmed down and then sank back into her chair realizing what she had done.

“Thank you master-chief but I think we can do better, much better. I am giving you and Major Stewart a free hand to get your teams moving. If you need something, come to me and I will get it for you but I need results!” Corazon stood up which caused all of the others in the room to stand up.

“Do your jobs and I mean what I say, push your men but don’t break them? I want answers now!” Corazon turned and left the room.

“All right then, lets get moving!” Mannsfield shouted as the others began to pick-up their reports and folders. Mannsfield watched them all gather their stuff and leave and he wondered what would things be like if the teams did not discover the skills to build a seaworthy ship for Chiron.

*!*!*!*

Morgan Industries, MY 2122

The loss of the terraformer at Morgan Antimatter was quite a setback, and Morgan thought through his options. Then colony pod would be done in the coming year, and it was clear the next significant project was a terraformer. But, that would take a long time, especially after a thousand people from Antimatter were sent with the colony pod. That would leave Antimatter short handed for a long time, likely years.

Still, it must be done. Expansion was the only choice even if it was at times uncomfortable and inconvenient. For instance, it was clear that in three or four years Antimatter would have half the resources required toward their new terraformer. Then it would be prudent to allocate 20 megacredits to complete it early. Although energy reserves were at an all time low of 60 megacredits it is likely that the investment would be worth it. At this point the two existing terraformers were doing a stellar job. Already there was a road between Industries and Collections, and a forest was being planted on the nutrient lode at this moment. Then more choices – a solar panel on the high-altitude farm? A forest on the low altitude arid sector?

These choices wouldn’t be so hard if there were more terraformers! It was so sad the other former was destroyed since by now it would have built the road for the colony pod. Now they would have to plod through unimproved territory, wasting so many years.

In the future this would not be acceptable, but right now there were no other options. Build what you have, and expand as you can. That is key.

*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 2123

Lt. Colonel Mannsfield looked across the command center to the main doors as they flew open and Colonel Santiago entered. Her elite “black guards” immediately followed her in and took up positions along the wall. Santiago walked across the ignoring the looks from the radio operators, technicians and officers and walked right over to Mannsfield. She had a very determined look on her face one that Mannsfield had come to know all to well.

“Lt. Colonel, what is the status of the 2nd scout/rover regiment?” Santiago had stopped in front of his desk arms behind her back.

“Colonel if you will follow me to the map table I will show you exactly where they are and update you on their status.” Mannsfield stood up and walked around his table to the large map table that represented the entire known and unknown areas of Chiron. Mannsfield picked up a long pointer stick and tapped and area about two sectors south of Sparta Command.

“Colonel, here is where the 2nd scout/rover regiment is. They have yet to encounter any alien life forms but are still working through the fungus fields there in hopes of finding some. The last report I have, dated from last night, states that the regiment is fully operational and is at 100% strength.” Mannsfield put the pointer down and waited.

“Lt. Colonel issue orders to be sent immediately to recall the 2nd from their current mission. I have ordered the rapid completion of the colony pod being built here at Sparta Command and I want the 2nd to escort the colony pod and colonists to the proposed site in the east. The colony pod should be ready to go next turn or there will be hell to pay. I doubt the 2nd will make it back here before the colony pod is done since they have the plow through all that fungus. Map out a rendezvous spot for the colony pod and the 2nd. Our own garrison from Sparta Command can escort them part of the way that should provide enough protection for the colonists.” Corazon had leaned over the table studying the terrain and Mannsfield had noticed that she did so somewhat awkwardly. Corazon looked up at Mannsfield and realized that he had noticed her movement.

“Colonel, I am with child.” She stated flatly and then bent over again to study the map.

Mannsfield made no further comment he understood immediately what she meant and the implications. It was crucial that every woman that could have a child did so in order to advance the Spartan nation and people. One of the first directives that had been issued by Santiago had been the need for all soldiers to do their duty in whatever capacity they could and that included procreation. Women were not discouraged from joining the military because of this policy, far from it. If any women had the desire or abilities to become a soldier rather than a technician or worker they were welcomed as equals. However, women were also encouraged to have as many children as they wanted with as many partners as possible. The gene pool had to be expanded to prevent inbreeding. Women in the military were expected to turn their children over to the military to care for after birth so they could continue their tour of duty. As a civilian citizen they could raise their own children or if they wished turn them over to the state to raise. Special children nurseries were set-up to care for the babies but after they reached six years old they were tested and sorted into one of three schools: military, scientific or workers. Once the child was absorbed into the system the identity of the mother/father/child was kept secret to avoid problems in the future. The ancient Spartans had done something very similar with their children and it had worked perfectly for them so why not now for their modern contemporaries. Already the young soldiers that were raised in the military schools showed more promise than was expected. They were more loyal, highly trained and motivated and they already were indoctrinated into the military life. The major advantage was that each “class” was extremely cohesive since they had spent their entire lives working together. Discipline problems were worked out years earlier. Once a “class” graduated they were always kept together. Each “class” had at least several companies and each company decided what military field they would choose, infantry, scouts, logistics or administration.

Since the implementation of the school system there had been some “cross overs”. A “cross over” was a person that had been sent to one school but for some reason had showed at a later date talents or abilities that better served them in another school. All schools however taught basic military tactics and discipline so that any child would have basic infantryman skills. After graduation at age 19 each student could enlist in the military system for 8 years, irregardless of the school they attended, and after the completion of their duty they would be accorded the highest privilege of all, the rank of citizen. Only citizens could hold property other than their homes. Citizens had the right to vote on decisions at civilian council meetings and hold office.

One of the unique aspects about the Spartan system was the idea of duplication. In essence every facet of Spartan society and economy was duplicated. There were civilian factories and military factories. There were civilian research labs and military labs. There were civilian support units and military support units. Another interesting aspect was the idea that not every civilian was a citizen. Civilians could accumulate wealth and material possessions (excluding property) and had many of the same rights to free speech and protection under the law but they were not citizens and as such could not vote. The privilege of being a citizen was granted to each veteran at the end of his or her tour. Current military personal could not vote or hold office with the exception of the senior command staff of the Spartan military. Each city had a council of delegates who worked with the commandant who was responsible for that city and surrounding territory’s security and administration. However, supreme authority rested with the military command council and the senior command staff with Colonel Santiago as the supreme commander who had the final authority overall.

Mannfield watched his Colonel move around the table while he thought about these issues and then out of the room and wondered how the next nine months would be as she continued to shoulder the burden of the Spartan nation and being pregnant.

*!*!*!*

Morgan Antimatter, MY 2123

Morgan watched the colony pod leave. The productive potential of Morgan Antimatter had been significantly diminished, but it was for a good cause. In a few years the new base would be up an running. Even better, after the base was established a third of the resources would be used for a good purpose – form a new terraformer group. Forming a new colony is an investment in the future, which is always a good thing.

Energy was an object, perhaps the object. And more bases that are used to harness these resources are always a good thing.

**Hydro** · April 28, 2003, 13:08

Sparta, MY 2124

The delivery had taken 10 hours and Corazon had been close to the end of her strength, something she shad always thought impossible, when the baby finally came out. It was a boy. The medics immediately began to give her stimulants and a saline I.V. drip to restore her fluid levels. The nurse took the baby and checked him out to make sure he was healthy and strong, which he was. The nurse then turned and began to walk out of the room with the child; Corazon understood what was happening when the nurse did this. She had signed the agreement to have the state raise her son. She could have kept the child if she had wanted to but she had no time to be a mother to a child when she was the leader of a nation, an army. What was important is that she had contributed to the overall population of the Spartan nation. However, none of that seemed to help how she felt right now, her mind was a spinning out of control.

“Bring him to me!” Corazon suddenly yelled.

The nurse turned and looked at the two medics as if waiting for some direction.

“BRING HIM TO ME!” Corazon yelled again.

The nurse did not hesitate this time and she walked over to the bed where she lay and held out the child for Corazon to see. He was perfect. Corazon could feel a tear begin to form in her eye and she quickly wiped it away. For a few minutes the nurse held the child before her and then she began to pull him back. Corazon in a sudden moment of insanity, brought about by the hormones in her body and the strain of the birth, reached over and grabbed the edge of the blanket that the baby was wrapped in. Then with her free hand she grabbed something on the table that was next to her bed and then she lunged towards the nurse and child. The nurse out of instinct, raised her arm to protect herself, the only problem with that was the baby was still in them. Corazon’s hand with the object hit the baby’s face and it began to cry. The nurse, at last, was able to pull away from Corazon and immediately rushed the baby to a small table where a medic rushed over to help her, they seemed to be working frantically on the baby. Two other medics rushed to restrain Corazon who was fighting them with all of her remaining strength. One of the medics was able to inject her with a sedative that seemed to take effect almost at once. Corazon slumped back into the bed and lost consciousness.

Sometime later she awoke in another room. She had been cleaned up and a man sat in a chair beside her.

“Good, I am glad you are awake so soon.” He smiled at her and stood up.

“What happened?” She asked.

“You lost a lot of blood and fluids. More than was good for you. You became distraught and incoherent. You had picked up a scalpel and attacked the nurse. Unfortunately you cut the child just below the right eye by accident. No real damage was done that would cause any long-term damage except for a scar, but that is nothing. You should not worry to much about what happened we have had this happen before a few times. The strain of the delivery and the hormones can cause extreme swings in your personality. The main thing is tha” Corzaon quickly interrupted the doctor.

“You will never repeat to anyone what happened. Do you understand doctor? I want all documentation destroyed if there is any mention of what occurred. DO YOU UNDERSTAND! I want the nurse and medics sworn to an oath never to reveal what they saw in there that day.” Corazon has sat up in the bed glaring at the doctor.

“I understand Colonel, it will be done.” He stood up and left the room quickly.

Corazon sat back down in the bed and let the anger seep away. She had wanted to keep the child, her child. She knew she could never do so, not with the task she had in front of her. Perhaps someday she might see him again, a young boy, or a man, with a scar under his right eye. The thought of him again made her begin to cry. DAMN these hormones that still raged in her body. She swore never again to get pregnant. She had done her job for the Spartan people. That was enough. She was ashamed at how she acted in the delivery room like some hysterical ninny! She had undergone the hardest training the military could offer and she had always passed with the highest mark but have a child and she fell apart like a schoolgirl. No she would never put herself through that again, never. She was tired again and very quickly she began to loose consciousness again.

*!*!*!*

Morgan Industries, MY 2124

“Sir, the site is not optimal,” Rothchild said. “While it is three sectors away from Antimatter, it will likely interfere with future colony sites.

“I know that,” Morgan replied. “There are other considerations. First, every year the colony moves takes time away from its productivity as a city. Second, it is currently on a flat sector, which is good for very little else than a colony pod or a forest, and all the other sectors are prime real estate – rainy with abundant minerals without being too rocky. Third, if we establish the colony next year we can rush build a terraformer. This will allow a 50% increase in our terraforming efforts, which is considerable. Fourth, this will take the support drain away from Antimatter, which depletes its meager industrial capacity. At their current rate it will take 16 years to complete their terraformer. This will be cut in half if the colony pod is taken off their roles.”

“I see sir,” Rothchild said. “I’ll forward your recommendation right away. The colony leader is waiting.”

“Very good,” Morgan said. “Now, send in the scientific delegation. I require them to explain the sudden drop in our breakthrough rate.”

**Hydro** · April 28, 2003, 13:10

Sparta, MY 2125

Corazon walked into the main research lab at Sparta Command with her black guards to the cheers and hoots of the scientists. Corazon stopped and watched for a few seconds as master-chief technician grabbed and hugged Major Stewart while several other white robed figures patted them on the back. Suddenly several soldiers saw that Corazon had entered the lab and yelled attention, that quickly halted the free for all that was taking place. Stewart and Boothe quickly unlocked their embrace and came to attention.

“At ease everyone. What has happened here?” Corazon walked into the room and went straight over Boothe and Stewart and the senior researchers.

“Colonel I have great news to report!” Boothe replied. “We have built and tested a successful design for a ship!” Boothe announced. Corazon’s heart stopped for the briefest of a second. At last she thought, ships! Ships meant that the Spartan people could move forward with their colonization plans.

“Let me see?” She asked. Boothe reached over and flipped a button on the consol and on the main screen a picture took form of a small ship, barely larger than a rover.

“You see Colonel, we built a smaller version of our fission reactor and placed it into that ship. It operates just like a larger more powerful version would for a larger vessel. That prototype ship allowed us to develop an efficient reactor system that would provide adequate propulsion for any hull design we can come up with. We will now lay out plans for larger versions of ships. We will design a transport ship and a laser foil first.” Stewart commented as he pointed out the design features to Corazon who watched intently as the floated on the screen near her.

“I will call a meeting later today to discuss this breakthrough. We have already begun on the recycling tanks here at Sparta Command and I would prefer to complete those first. Then we will build a transport and Ironholm can build the laser foil. This is excellent work, excellent work to be sure. With this we can move east and west during our next colonization push and claim those continents for ourselves.” Corazon replied as hundreds of plans began to surge through her brain.

“Colonel, I agree with you a 100% on that suggestion. The private firm that helped us design the propulsion unit has the contract for the management and operation of the tanks here at Sparta. It would be difficult to explain to them now that they would have to wait even more before they can begin operations of the tanks.” Boothe quickly replied. “Besides, as you said, we do not have a colony pod or the colonists to board a transport since they are all committed to spots on Sparta.”

“Yes, yes, yes…” Corazon cut her off. “I know about the contact with Thermo-Strike Inc. However, I see no reason to change our production priority now so they are safe. With the added resources of the tanks the construction of our transport ship at Sparta Command will go all the quicker.”

“Colonel, have you thought of who might head the new department of the navy?” Stewart asked.

Corazon looked at him for a moment and then said, “No, I have not. That is one more thing to add to the list. I will alert the others but expect to meet at 17:00hrs today to lay out a definitive plan.” Corazon stepped back and begin to turn and leave. Booth, Stewart and the others quickly came to attention and saluted, each of them with big grins on their faces.

Corazon watched them for a moment and said, “You have all earned a special commendation for your work here today. In addition, I am granting each of you a special 72 hours furlough for much needed rest and relaxation. Good work again and keep it up!” Corazon finished her turn and walked out of the room to the cheers of the scientists.

*!*!*!*

Morgan Studios, MY 2125

“I hereby christen this fine city Morgan Studios, our fourth base on Chiron,” Morgan said. “I have to say that I am flattered that you chose to honor me by naming the city after me, in part at least. It just shows your sharp intelligence, and your keen wit.”

Morgan paused for the obligatory laughter. Some weren’t quite sure if it was meant to be a joke, but they laughed anyway.

“Already you are making a fine contribution to the greater whole. The river to the northwest is already harnessed to provide energy, and I hear the same rainy sector is providing ample food. Your growth potential is only limited by your industriousness and your imagination, which I know you all possess in abundance.

“The Board of Directors has voted to entrust to your new community 25 megacredits to be used to complete your first project, a terraformer. This is an investment in your future and, by extension, all of our futures. I want you to see this as an affirmation of the Board’s trust in your community, and our belief in your potential. It is my hope that you will work with us to expand the boundaries of your community, and that you harness the resources of Chiron to your benefit and ours.

“So, once again, congratulations!”

Morgan stepped down from the small podium, which was emblazoned with the yellow Morgan Triangle, otherwise known as the Golden Triangle or the Triangle of Prosperity. He waved to the crowd, which drew even more applause. It was clear he was drinking in this adulation, and his white smile was vibrant against his ebony skin.

*!*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 2126

Corazon stood up as three men filed into her office followed by her aide Captain Longstreet. The three men were dressed in similar uniforms except the pants they were white with a blue stripe and the tunics were a deep blue. They walked up in front of her desk and saluted.

“Colonel reporting as ordered.” The middle officer said.

“Thank you commander, at ease.” She saluted them back and then gestured with her hand for them to sit while she did the same.

“In just a few moments we will go into the morning briefing and I will introduce you the command staff. Commander as head of naval operations you will now sit the senior command council.” Corazon directed her comments to the middle man, Commander Miklos Stepovich, chief of naval operations for the Spartan Federation.

“Thank you again Colonel for the appointment, I will not let you down, I assure you. Allow me to introduce my two senior aides. This is Lt. Commander Maxwell Siemens who will be director of naval construction and logistics and this is Lt. Commander Archie Courtland who is director of personal and deputy operations director.” Corazon nodded to each of them as they were introduced.

“Commander I want to stress the importance of getting your fleet up and running as quickly as possible. As I have said once we complete the recycling tanks at Sparta Command the ship docks and construction yards will be complete and we can “lay down” the first keel. Ironholm is working on similar facilities but will complete their facilities after ours. We want a transport and escort ship in operation in less than 15 turns. Is that clear commander?” Corazon had leaned forward and looked at Stepovich with a look that could melt steel. He stared her back and didn’t blink.

“Colonel, I understand you orders clearly. However, my completion of any ships is subject to the accumulation of resources or more correctly the allocation of resources. If you give us the materials we can get the ships done. Lt. Commander Courtland is already training our first “sailors” and has instituted a rigorous training program. Our sailors will be ready the question is will the ships.” Stepovich replied.

“Commander, I assure you that you will have your ships. Now, lets go meet the command staff. Offices and space have been allocated to you by lt. Colonel Mannsfield so see him after the meeting and he will get you sorted out.” Corazon stood up and shot her hand out to shake Stepovich’s. “Congratulations again Commander, now lets get to work!”

*!*!*!*

Morgan Industries, MY 2126

“We’ve learned a valuable lesson today,” Morgan said. “Having our garrison leave this city was extremely unwise since it allowed unsavory elements to cause problems, problems that civil administrators were unable to deal with. Hundreds of citizens had their activities interrupted and riots were just barely avoided, and at this point in our development it is unacceptable to have our primary base of operations fall into disarray. The consequences of having chaos reign instead of production and commerce is unacceptable.”

Morgan looked around at his Board of Directors. Thankfully for them they were all paying strict attention.

“Rothchild, here is Edict 2126-21B: No city shall allow its garrison to leave when it grows to 2000 people or more unless it has facilities to quell any potential unrest. This directive can be countermanded at the order of the Board of Directors, or in the case of dire emergency, as stipulated in General Orders Subsection 32, paragraph 2, clause 2A.”

Rothchild looked up and he nodded.

“Fill in the appropriate details and forward this to all base commanders. Now, I assume the garrison will be called back?” There were nods. “Very good. You will note that their little excursion denied us the resources of the newly forested sector to our east. We can never make up for this loss, as I am sure you are aware.

“I am disappointed in all of you. Meeting dismissed,” Morgan said.

*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 2127

Captain Ira Morning gestured to his driver to steer the rover more to the left as he continued to glance right and left at the other rovers in formation. A mind worm had been spotted just south of their position. The colonists had seen it first as the trudged through the thick fungus towards their new home. They had quickly alerted their escort, the 2nd scout/rover regiment of the worm’s location.

“All rovers this is command one. Begin the flanking movement on both sides to surround the beast. When you get within 500 meters open fire with everything you have!” Captain Morning flipped the channel to receive as he listened to each rover acknowledge his command.

The rovers continued to move forward at top speed, or as best as they could through the fungus and closed on the worm mass. Through the mag-glasses Morning could see that the worm was “sensing” their approach as it suddenly began to shudder and lurch towards them. However, the range was now 500 meters.

“OPEN FIRE!” Morning yelled.

Almost in unison every rover began to fire rocket propelled grenades, heavy machine gun fire and 22.5 auto-cannons into the worm. It was over before it started. The rovers had barely begun their flanking movement when the worm mass exploded apart from the hail of firepower brought down upon it.

“CEASE FIRE! Rover two and three form up on command while we move in to inspect the remains and retrieve the energy nodules.” Morning reached over and nudged his driver to move in. He smiled to himself as he watched the damage reports from the other rovers pop up on his display, none. The psychic mind blast from the worm had never even reached full intensity; only one man was partially stunned by the attack. Excellent. The rovers closed the distance to the remains and stopped a few feet from them. Morning and his teams jumped out and began searching the area for the energy nodules and quickly found them.

“Radio Sparta Command, have intercepted worm mass as it approached colony pod. Worm mass was engaged and destroyed. No damage to any vehicles or men. Have retrieved many energy nodules and will forward them to command at earliest opportunity. Will continue with escort mission. Expect to reach colony site next turn and colony should be up and running by following turn. Captain Morning, Commander 2nd scout/rovers.” Morning closed the link to his radio operator and watched the men recover the nodules, yes; it had been a good day.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++

Corazon read the report from Captain Morning and smiled to herself. Excellent news. She flipped open a channel to the command center.

“Lt. Colonel Mannsfield, I want you to order the 1st scout/rover regiment to escort the colony pods leaving Ironholm and Hero’s Waypoint. They should have completed their preparations this turn and leave at the beginning of next. With the report from the 2nd scouts it seems our island is not as secure as we thought.”

“Understood Colonel, I will issue orders to the 1st immediately. Should Ironholm continue as planned with the tanks or build a garrison unit as planned earlier since the 1st will not be there to guard them?” Mannsfield replied.

“Order them to continue as planned. The 1st should only be gone a few turns and there is little fungus in the territory surrounding Ironholm, Santiago out!” Corazon closed the link. In two turns they will have their fourth colony up and running and a few turns later, two more will be completed as well. Yes, the Spartans were moving forward!

*!*!*!*

Morgan Industries, MY 2127

“We have explored the territory to the west, and it appears to be a long island,” Morgan said. “What are our prospects for expansion?”

“Very good. We have room for 6 to 9 bases, depending on how close we place them. Most of the territory is reasonably hospitable except for the lee side of the mountain we landed upon.”

“I will recommend the bases be placed one to three sectors apart, depending on each specific location. This will reduce transit time, and increase the effective productivity,” Morgan stated. “Clear?”

“And what about the little peninsula to the south?” Morgan asked as he pointed to the unknown territory southwest of Morgan Antimatter. “Could this hold even more territory.”

“Yes, but we don’t know yet. Our scout is currently working its way in that direction, but it will be quite a while until it makes it there. There is also a bit of fungus in the way and we won’t know its extent until we get there.”

Morgan nodded. “It seems to me our progress is slowing. I want that changed. Immediate priority is to be placed on colony pods since that is our key to success. The only exception is to be Morgan Industries. I have other plans for our glorious capital.”

*!*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 2128

The colonists reached the far eastern shores of Sparta safe and sound. The area was slightly hilly but the coastline was beautiful. As far as anyone one of them could see to the east was endless ocean.

“Commandant Paulus, the chief engineer wishes to begin clearing the site for the colony pod to be unloaded, is that acceptable?” Paulus’s aide had jogged up the small hill overlooking the site.

“Yes, inform him to begin at once and do not stop until it is done.” Paulus looked back the west where they had just come from. Nearly three sectors wide of fungus separated them from the main colonies on Sparta. He remembered his last meeting with Santiago as she stressed the importance of getting his colony up and running as quickly as possible. She had warned him that there would be little assistance they could offer to help him if he had need. The fungus fields would make it next to impossible to send any reinforcements. The colonel had told him that the 2nd scout/rovers could stay until they get their garrison unit armed and trained. She had also told him that they would be the first unit to be armed with laser weapons. Additional supplies had been loaded into the massive crawler so that when they unpacked the small assembly/production facility could build an entire regiment of laser rifles and cannons. That had taken some of the worry away.

Paulus watched the far horizon to the north as Captain Morning’s rovers were making long sweeps through that area. To the north was a rich sector of nutrients and minerals that they would use to bolster their resources and population. Paulus looked back again to the west at the orange/red fields of fungus and began to worry again. Supplies and reinforcements were so far away, so far. He would have to use every trick in his book, all of his training to make this colony prosper.

Commandant Reginald Fitz-Wallace III walked ahead of this colony pod and colonists like a modern day Moses leading his people to the Promised Land. It would take them four turns to reach the site and get the colony up and running but after that it should be easy for them to accomplish great things. They would have access to a rich mineral deposit along the western shoreline that also was very fertile and rainy. Also, if they needed to they could send workers to the boreholes for minerals and energy. He was very glad of the challenge ahead of them but felt he could handle it easily.

He looked back at the thousand souls plodding along next to the massive crawler. He wished that the 1st scout/rovers were coming with them but no orders had been issued. The last intelligence report indicated that the likelihood of any native life forms attacking the colonists were minimal since there was so little fungus in the area they were traveling. Fitz-Wallace hated intelligence reports more than he hated the fact that he had been past over for command of a line regiment rather than being the mother/father to a colony. Santiago had tried to make it sound appealing but what he wanted was a real command. Well, perhaps if he did well in this posting the Colonel might move him. The resources they would have access to would make his city the premier choice for any production of new military units. Well, maybe after they build the first garrison he might get the next scout/rover regiment planned, a laser cannon equipped rover regiment. Now that would be a real challenge for him!

Fitz-Wallace stumbled again and he kicked the ground again in frustration. Well, for now he would have to be content with being an infantryman.

**Hydro** · April 28, 2003, 13:10

Morgan Industries, MY 2128

“Sir, we will have a problem in a few years. Morgan Industries will run out of land when it grows to 3000 people and it will not have access to more useful land due to the fungus, and the close spacing of our bases. Here are the Board’s recommendations. First, we can have Morgan Collections give up the forest sector. This would mean they would have to utilize the fungus to provide minimal food and nothing else, or perhaps the sea. Second, we could have Industries do the same of the fungus to the sea. This will significantly reduce our productive potential,” Rothchild said.

Morgan looked over the options. “Are no terraformers available to ameliorate this situation. This sector here,” he said, pointing to a moist, flat sector northwest of Morgan Collections, “seems to be a prime candidate for a forest. That is very productive, and it may grow and displace the useless fungus.”

“Yes, sir. That would countermand their order to build a solar collector at the 2000+ meter altitude where we have a farm,” Rothchild replied.

“I see,” Morgan said as he paused. “Tell the Manager at Collections that I recommend they move the former to the flat location and build the forest. Tell them I understand there will be a transport related delay, but that we foresee a resource problem in the near future.”

“Yes, sir,” Rothchild said as he composed the message and shunted it off to Manger Hollings at Collections. “This new terrain will not be ready before we grow. In the interim, what are your orders for Industries?”

“It is paramount that we maintain maximum resource collection at Industries,” Morgan said out loud. “Tell Collections that in approximately three years we will likely need to appropriate their forest, and that they are to use their best judgement to collect other resources.”

Rothchild nodded, composed the addendum, and shunted it to Collections.

*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 2129

Corazon was walking down the main hallway from the command bunker when one of Mannsfields aides ran down the hall towards her. When he got within 3 meters her black guards quickly moved to form a wall between her and the man, since they did not know what might be his true intentions. When the young aide saw the guards shift he immediately stopped.

“Colonel, I have an urgent flash message from communications, it’s from Commandant Woo.” He held out the paper and one of her black guards grabbed and it turned around and gave it to her. She quickly read it.

--URGENT FLASH PRIORTY-1---

HERO’S WAYPOINT STRICKEN BY UNKNOWN VIRUS, OVER HALF OF POPULAITON DEAD, UNABLE TO DEPLOY COLONY POD. REQUEST ASSISTANCE AND GUIDANCE….
COMMANDANT WOO

Damn! DAMN! Corazon crumpled the paper up and turned to her chief guard.

“Back to command, something urgent has come up.”

Three months later the support crews: workers, laborers and engineers, had completed their work and the new recycling tanks at Hero’s Waypoint had been built. It had cost the Spartan nation nearly 30 mega-credits to complete it, including the resources from the now un-needed and scrapped colony pod, its valuable components removed, metal recycled, and equipment distributed to other cities. However, Hero’s Waypoint had the first base recycling facility.

The new base Commandant Lee Waters looked down from his office as a private walked back and forth in front of the gates to Hero’s Waypoint, Private Mi Li Woo, former Commandant of Hero’s Waypoint. Santiago herself had arrived to make the change and issue the punishment. When Santiago left she told him that she assigned Woo to guard duty not only as a punishment but a reminder. Stupidity would not go unpunished. In Woo’s haste to complete the colony pod ahead of Ironholm she had reduced rations, water, the end result was a virus broke out within the small community that even the Spartan soldiers could not fight, or at least not in their starved condition. The new recycling tanks were “crashed” built in order to help the city regroup and rebuild. The new commandant had been installed with the expectations of rebuilding a city and the motivation, the morale of a people.

*!*!*!*

Morgan Industries, MY 2129

“I think we are finally becoming coordinated,” Morgan said. “Industries is scheduled to grow to 3000 next year, and at the same time our first recreation commons is complete. It cost us 24 megacredits, but it is worth every joule.”

“Yes, sir,” Rothchild said.

“This will bring resources to Industries to unprecedented levels,” he continued. “The combination of the recycling tanks, a nutrient lode, and two forested sectors will allow us start truly ambitious Project: the Weather Paradigm!”

“Sir, the Board has also made a case for the Human Genome Project. This should allow significant stability in our cities,” Minister Snow said. “The investment is the same. We need to determine which is more advantageous.”

“That is a valid point,” Morgan said. “You are correct that the Genome Project would give us productivity, but I am looking to the future. Being able to bring great efficiency to our terraforming efforts is key to allowing us to harness the resources of this planet – extraction is paramount. Moreover, it looks like we will be able to execute very advanced forms of land modification, which should allow us to do things such as raise land on a massive scale. Imagine a situation where our available land is more limited than we hope it might be. If so, we might have to wait for many decades, whereas we might be able to get this Project up and running in less than 15 years.”

“We will have the opportunity to switch our resources to other Projects,” Rothchild said. “We have time to change to modify our decision as the situation requires.”

Several of the Board members nodded, and some of the tension in the room dissipated.

“That is an excellent point,” Morgan said. “I will take is that the Directors are agreed that we will dedicate our resources to a Project, and that for the time being we will concentrate on the Weather Paradigm and that this may be modified at a later date. Agreed?”

A chorus of agreement greeted this comment, the first in the entire day.

*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 2130

Santiago had spent the entire day and night with Lt. Colonel Mannsfield as they reviewed the reports and data for the important meeting in the morning. Santiago pushed herself back from the desk and rubbed her eyes Mannsfield reached for another cup of synth-coffee.

“Colonel, I think we are as ready as we can be?” Mannsfield stated. Corazon nodded her head in agreement.

“Mannsfield it all boils down to one issue, lack of resources, doesn’t it?” Corazon replied.

“I am afraid so Colonel. The report prepared by Boothe’s people is very good. It clearly indicates that our lack of resources is the main issue to further progress. Look how the recycling tanks at Hero’s Waypoint have doubled the nutrient, energy and mineral production at that base. What is even more frustrating is that we have many sectors of land that could be excellent sources for resources but are covered by fungus.” Mannsfield began to collect the papers and reports. At the morning briefing some tough choices were going to be discussed by the command staff. With the disaster at Hero’s Waypoint the Spartan people were now behind in colonization efforts, very behind. But that was only the tip of the iceberg. There were only two more sites left that could support cities and one of those was only marginal at base, a choice of last resort. The key was the completion of a transport ship to ferry colony pods to the continents to the east and west.

“It seems it always comes down to this Mannsfield, doesn’t it? Well, the first thing I want done apart from getting a colony pod across the narrow straights to the east and west is I want to put a rover regiment there first. I want those areas scouted first. We will either find one of three things: the areas are uninhabited and ready for colonization or there are Unity survivors there and they are in worst shape than us and if so we will absorb them into our society and finally, if there are survivors or aliens there that posses greater resources than us then we will have to consider either war or peace with them until we can strike with superior force. The key will be the building of those “footholds” on either continent so that we can stage our forces.” Corazon turned and walked to the door. “Good night Mannsfield.” She said as she left the room.

“Good night Colonel.” Mannsfield finished picking up the papers and then he walked down the corridor to the command center and found a junior lieutenant.

“Get these copied and put into briefing books for the morning.” Mannsfield turned and immediately went to his desk to sleep there for a few hours before the meeting.

*!*!*!*

Morgan Industries, MY 2130

“We have started the Weather Paradigm at Industries, and our other three bases are working on colony pods. Our progress is maddeningly slow,” Morgan said. “Studios will finish their colony pod in 29 years, less what will occur when they grow to 2000 people in six or seven years.”

“Yes, but Antimatter just started their pod and they will be done in seven years,” Rothchild said. “Focus on the positive, sir. All things considered we are doing well. Consider that our road system is finally linking our first four bases together, and now two formers are building roads for our colony pods. That will speed our expansion enormously. What will be even better is that the roads will be ready about the time the next two pods are complete, and the roads may even be all the way to the proposed sites itself. The only problem is the lack of warning, and the Board has a new recommendation to construct a sensor in the forest northeast of Industries. This would protect Industries, Collections, and Antimatter – a fine investment.”

Morgan looked over the flimsy Rothchild handed him as he was finishing his last statement. “Yes. This is a good recommendation. See that it is done, and tell Collections the Board of Directors recommends that their formers construct this sensor when the forest is complete.”

“Yes, sir,” Rothchild said as he recorded Directive 2130-252A.

“Any word on our scout? Have they penetrated the fungus on the peninsula yet” Morgan asked.

“They just arrived in position this last year, and will make their first attempt soon. If we are lucky they will not have to try many times, if at all. Some of our crude topographic surveys suggest that we have a good chance of more land to the south. If so I hope it is rich.”

“As do I,” Morgan said with a nod. “It is late, Mr. Rothchild. I will see you in the morning at 5:00 am sharp. Make sure my valet is here at 4:20 am.”

“Yes, sir,” Rothchild said just before he turned and left.

*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 2131

Corazon watched the video feed as the 1st heavy infantry regiment completed its pass and review in front of the podium. She had wished to be there but without a road system to get there quickly traveling to Bunker 118 was something that you did not accomplish quickly. The 1st was Sparta’s first laser rifle/laser cannon equipped infantry regiment. Another heavy infantry unit, the 2nd, was being built at their new base, Parade Ground. It would another several turns before the work was complete in getting the unit up and running.

Corazon turned to look at Mannsfield who was watching with her, he noticed her look.

“Colonel, is there something I can do for you?” Mannsfield asked.

“No, I was just wondering, what was the time table for Sparta Command to get laser weapons.”

“Not for some time. We are working on the recycling tanks, then the transport. After that we can begin our laser weapons program here. I would suggest that we build a second infantry unit to compliment the 1st light infantry unit stationed here. In time, we can upgrade the 1st with heavy weapons.” Mannsfield quickly jotted a note to himself to send Santiago a report on this.

Both turned back to watch the review on the screen. The next units passing by were the heavy laser cannons that were mounted on the tracked sleds. Corazon could imagine the terror that these weapons could bring if they faced a unit equipped with only light projectile weapons. Soon they would have a transport and exploration would begin in earnest. Corazon tapped the side where she kept her laser pistol. God help those souls if they occupied the lands the Spartans wanted. She would not be denied her share of the land and prosperity of this planet. No, the Spartans would take what is theirs and to hell with everyone else.

*!*!*!*

Morgan Industries, MY 2131

“Board members, I am here to report a success: a breakthrough in Information Networks. This is a key technology since it is the linchpin to future breakthrough that will allow greater utilization of our industry and energy production, both of which will enable our society to leapfrog our development. This will be our base, ladies and gentlemen – then we can devote our resources to other more…peripheral concerns,” Morgan stated.

“Such as what?” Board Member Audry Snow asked.

“Defense for one, and perhaps some weapons or defenses to use against malevolent native life forms,” Morgan explained. “But, keep in mind that Information Networks will be key to very potent weaponry in the future, or at least so I have been told.”

“I take it our base strategy is still intact? We will still pursue an aggressive base expansion plan?” Hsu Wang asked.

“Of course,” Morgan replied. “This portion of our strategy applies to our resource program, which will be augmented by our base expansion program if it succeeds.”

Director Wang nodded.

“And, I should add, that our scout has penetrated the fungus to the south of Morgan Antimatter and the results are very promising, very promising indeed! Mr. Rothchild, please give the Directors the update we just received.”

Flimsies were given to the seven Directors. The images showed the peninsula that was covered by fungus, and the scout which was now in the middle of it. A topographic survey of the area showed the land rose and expanded outward, and what looked like a river that flowed from the rise toward the southwest.

“As you can see,” Morgan continued, “the data are preliminary, and there is a lot of fungus that will cause problems. The key is that there is at least room for two more bases and it is possible that the land mass extends to the south.

“Now, to focus on our likely scientific breakthroughs, here is the list I have been presented by our stalwart researchers…”

**Hydro** · September 25, 2003, 12:46

Sparta, MY 2232

The 2nd scout/rovers had been ordered to leave Bunker 118 and travel the entire length of Sparta in order to reach one of the newest bases, Parade Ground. Captain Morning did not relish the idea at all of pushing his men for so long without rest but the needed it. The past three turns spent on garrison duty at Bunker 118 had allowed them time to complete some refits and training but only be being out in the field could you really get the real training they needed. There would be a turn or two of rest once they reached Parade Ground but that would be it. They would board the transport that would ship them across the western seas to the new lands. It was crucial that before colonists land there that they knew what to expect. Morning had been told that if possible they would get a laser cannon upgrade for each rover before leaving. That would be impressive and most welcome if they were going to be “cut-off” from support until a colony pod could be built and deployed.

“Sir are we still heading west?” Morning’s driver asked.

“Farther west than you can imagine corporal.” Morning shifted in his seat and pulled out the map sheet again and reviewed the course they had charted. It was crucial that that they get to Parade Ground as fast as they can so if an upgrade was possible, then it could be done before they shipped out.

Corzaon Santigao had been inspecting the military school at Ironholm for several days. The new school was the second built and it was important to future success of the Spartan people that it was being run by the best instructions possible. Today she was inspecting the barracks where the most junior cadets lived. As she passed down the isle she noticed a young boy. What drew her attention was scar across his face, just under his right eye. She stopped for a minute in front of him checking his uniform and locker area. Private Carlos Sanchez was stenciled on his locker. Santiago walked back to stand in front of the young boy.

“Are you happy to be in this school private?” Santiago asked.

“YES COLONEL!” He shouted back his eyes locked forward.

“Excellent private carry on.” Santiago continued her inspection but deep down she would keep an eye on this cadet’s progress.

*!*!*!*

Morgan Industries, MY 2132

beep, beep….beep, beep…

Morgan snapped awake. “Morgan here,” he said.

“Sir,” a voice said, “our scout has had an incident.”

“Yes,” Morgan said. “Continue.”

“The encountered a mindworm as they were entering the fungus,” the voice said. “They persevered, and they report some are hurt. Their best estimate is that they are at 80 percent of their original strength.”

Pause.

“They also are shipping approximately 10 megacredits of mindworm pearls, sir,” the voice continued.

“Very good,” Morgan said. “Convey my best wishes to the valiant scout crew. Morgan out.”

Beep

Morgan knew the connection was broken. He thought about the situation for a moment and made a mental note to check in with the scout crew the next morning – after he had gotten his usual five hours of sleep.

*!*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 2133

Commandant Paulus walked slowly down the catwalk as he watched the workers building the transport. In seven turns the ship should be done and ready for sea. The dockyards were impressive with the large cranes and great dry docks for future repairs. The dockyards had been built far large than they current needs of the Spartan nation. Paulus stopped as he watched the crane lower another “rib section” down onto the keel were workers were waiting to bolt it down. Over his right shoulder was the massive engine works production facility and to his front were the armaments factory. Nothing had been left out of the grand plan. Parade Grounds had the best shipyards in the entire Spartan nation. Most of that was due to the rich mineral deposits found to the west. Paulus imagined that someday they could build a mine, similar to the alien boreholes that would allow them to pull even more resources from that sector.

“Commandant!” Paulus stopped short as he looked around at the voice that yelled at him, it was aide, Captain Metzger.

“Sir, an urgent request from Sparta Command on the status of the transport.” Paulus took the note from his aide and read it several times before he crumpled it into his pocket. The colonel wanted almost daily status reports. So much “hinged” on the completion of the transport and when it would be done. He knew that the 2nd scout/rovers even now was heading towards his base for transport. After the transport shipped the rovers then it was expected to quickly sail to the center portion of Sparta and investigate three unknown objects that had been beached on reefs. Paulus had no regrets about his command when he compared it to the rigors that these ships would be put through. It was clear that the navy and army would be constantly fighting for resources but since Sparta was an island, deference would always be given to the navy.

“Sir, what should I report back to command?”

“Send them the daily report from the dock master and the shipbuilders. Inform them that everything that can be done, is being done.” Paulus chuckled to himself since that was the 20th time he used that same saying since the project began. Perhaps Santiago might become annoyed but there was little he could add until the ship was built.

“Sir, perhaps its time to return to command?” Captain Metzger asked as he watched workmen begin to climb the catwalk so that they could bolt the new rib section to the completed sections. Yes, he had better move or plan on helping.

*!*!*!*!*

Morgan Industries, MY 2133

“Finally, Morgan Collections has fully utilized territory,” Morgan said. “They have both a farmed sector and a forest sector, boosting their resource base significantly. Their colony pod will be complete in four years,” Morgan said as he pointed to the new forested area. “Next, a sensor for defense, and then perhaps some fungus removal, and we can hope our four forested sectors will grow into the blasted fungus, obliterating it!”

There were some light chuckles at the CEO’s fervor, and other grunts of agreement.

“Studios is still in growth mode, and its colony pod won’t be ready for a decade or two,” he continued. “Antimatter will have its colony pod ready in four or five years. We can hurry this along with an infusion of energy, of course, if this Board deems that wise. Any comments?”

“No. Very good,” Director Snow said. “We’ll have to discuss future terraforming options, but for now I think we are all in agreement.”

*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 2134

Chief Technician Boothe sat in her office opposite two men. They had been meeting for hours trying to hammer out an agreement to present to the command council. The two men in the room were Mr. Franklin Benz of First-Star Manufacturing and Mr. Oscar Anderson of Ironworks Enterprises. Both of these men had been very instrumental in completing the engine designs for the prototype ship. Their companies had expanded vast amounts of energy credits and most importantly engineering expertise towards completion of the designs. Without their extra help the military construction teams lead by Boothe and the research teams lead by Stewart would have never been able to complete the designs.

“So I think we have an agreement we can tender to the council. With the directive from Colonel Santiago to switch back to normal military research and weapon designs there will be little time for us to do other projects or manage current programs. Your firms will step in and manage these “lucrative” contracts in exchange for your continued research support and production capacity.” Boothe was signing both documents as she was talking. Once she completed all of the signatures she took the documents and handed one of each back to the two men and kept two for her logs. “Now you have to understand that until I get command approval these are only tentative agreements. Colonel Santiago might wish to make changes.” Boothe had stood up, a signal that the meeting was done.

“We fully understand, don’t we Oscar,” Franklin Benz said as he turned to Anderson who nodded. “It is only understandable that the our leader, Colonel Santiago might wish to make some changes but lets hope they are small ones that we can all live with. You have to understand that we are only the managers and have to report back to our citizen owners for any major changes.”

“Yes, I do understand. Once the next breakthrough is completed, whatever that might be then we will schedule a meeting with the command council to address this.” Boothe moved to the door and opened it.

“Chief Director Boothe one last thing.” Mr. Anderson asked.

“Its still Master-Chief Technician until 24:00hrs today and then the change becomes official.” Boothe replied smiling.

“Yes, sorry. One last thing, both of our companies have several new products that we would like your office and Major Stewarts office to review for possible military procurements. New video monitors, computers, audio equipment could we have it sent by for your use so that you can get acquainted with the items. You could even take them home to try them there.”

“That would be kind of you. I would have to ask Major Stewart first, of course.” Boothe replied.

“Well, yes of course you should. Oh and I almost forgot. We are having a party at our factory two nights from now, at 19:00hrs. It is a kick-off party for a joint venture between our two companies. I would hope you could attend?” Anderson asked with a glint in his eye.

“I will try. Thank you again.” Boothe closed the door and pressed her back against it and let out a deep sigh. The Spartan people might live under a military command system but the forces for a free market system were too strong. Already the state operated factories were lagging behind the private ones; efficiency was nearly double in the private factories. Boothe could understand why at times, the private factories did not have to follow so many regulations and codes as the state operated ones did. However, having to deal with these managers made her skin crawl. She wondered how the Santiago would deal with men like these.

*!*!*!*

Morgan Industries, MY 2134

Morgan smiled. “I am pleased to meet you, Aki Zeta Five,” he said. “I must admit that I am not familiar with your peoples. Perhaps you will enlighten me?”

A fair woman with almost white hair and what looked like metallic studs gave Morgan a blank look. “I am the Prime Function. We are an integrated consciousness, using cybernetic augmentation to enhance our biologic potential with the use of multifaceted algorithms. Ours is a superior form of life; we shall ascend to heights unavailable to lesser forms.”

“How delightful,” Morgan said as he maintained a tight smile. “Our society relies on…

“Your primitive ideology is of no interest to us,” the Prime Function said.

Morgan paused. “Indeed,” he said.

Aki’s looked changed, shifting from a blank stare to a glare and then she seemed to give a barely discernable shudder.

“We are willing to accept your data on Biogenetics. This will be used to enhanced our cybernetic integration,” she said.

“We will be happy to exchange technologies,” Morgan said. His pulse quickened ever so slightly, but he maintained his controlled expression. “Perhaps you will have something to offer us in trade, something…”

“The Consciousness is unwilling to grant you our valuable advances for your data; ours is orders of magnitude more valuable,” she said.

Pause.

“Indeed,” Morgan said.

“The Consciousness requires a grant of energy,” Aki said.

Morgan’s pulse quickened again. Was this going to degenerate into extortion?

“We will grant you the communication frequency to the pure organic form Provost Zakharov in exchange,” the Prime Function said.

Zakharov! Morgan thought. He survived! This is wonderful news!

“We are pleased you have made contact with Prokhor Zakharov, Prime function, and we will be delighted to grant you 35 megacredits in exhange for this data,” Morgan said. He held his breath – would she accept?

“Agreed,” Aki said. “The data will be transmitted upon receipt of the data. Here is the energy transit frequency. You are to beam the energy to us immediately.”

Suddenly, Morgan was looking at a blank screen: Prime Function Aki Zeta Five had signed off very abruptly.

Nwabudike paused for a moment to consider what had happened. First, it was obvious that there were two other human communities on Chiron, although these Cyborgs might not be fully human anymore – an amazing change in a short three decades. Second, the Cyborgs were barely civil, bordering on hostile and certainly quarrelsome. Third, he had just failed to exchange technology, but had gained something far more important – the ability to find and contact Zakharov! Surely he would be more amenable to a deal. The potential was almost limitless! Lastly, it was clear that these Cyborgs would have to be watched very carefully, and it was critical to advance future colonies to the south to claim territory from them.

Yes, that was critical. Next year the colony pod at Morgan Antimatter would receive a large grant to complete it quickly, and then move into position ASAP.

*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 2135

Colonel Santiago of the Spartan Federation watched the latest class of officer cadets receive their swords and diplomas from Major Hazra. As the last cadet left the stage Santiago stood up and walked over to the podium to address the young 2nd lieutenants.

“I want to thank you for the hard work you did in completing this school. The officer’s academy is the hardest school to complete. We washout nearly half of you in the first year alone and by the time you reach this stage you have seen nearly 65% of your class fail. You are the now the edge of the sword for the Spartan people! We are about to launch our first expeditionary force. Some of you will soon find yourselves either following those troops or perhaps leading future missions. It is crucial for the survival, the expansion, of the Spartan people that we claim what is ours!
I will ask each and every one of you at some point to put your life on the line for your men or for your mission or for the Spartan people and you must do so without question! It is crucial to our way of life that orders are obeyed, instantly! You understand this principal clearly, if not, you would not be here today. The Spartan nation also requires that you are thinkers, planners! You need to improvise, adapt and overcome! We have done so and we have built a new nation driven by the demand to achieve excellence! Lastly, I want to say that each of you represents the new future for Sparta. Your loyalty, your life, your honor and your spirit are at the command of the Spartan nation to preserve it, to protect it to honor it! I hope that I will have the honor to serve with each one of someday. The swords that you were given have three words etched into them: HONOR, LOYALTY, COURAGE and on the other side: SPARTA! If you live by the principals of these simple words the battle field will always be yours and victory will taste sweet!” Corazon stepped down from the podium and walked off the stage to the thunderous cheers of the cadets.

*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 21235

“My old friend Zakharov,” Morgan said. “I am delighted to hear from you, and am glad you have prospered.”

Zakharov paused for a moment. “I wasn’t aware that we were friends, Mr. Morgan. It was my understanding that you were the primary contractor for Unity, and that I was the head engineer. You were not among the crew of Unity, so I find it interesting that you are now on Chiron. Isn’t that curious?”

“Why yes, it is. I must say that I used my connections to ensure I would be on Unity. I always believed in the great promise of the Unity project. That is why I ensured my company was able to give the UN very advantageous terms for its construction, at a loss, I might add.”

“And Unity broke apart as it neared Chiron,” Zakharov added. “But I’m sure that wasn’t your company’s fault.”

Morgan continued to smile, even though he saw the inference.

“That is the past,” Morgan said. “I wish to look to the future. Will you work with us to form a reunion of humanity? Perhaps consider a treaty of friendship?”

“Yes,” Zakharov said. “That seems appropriate.”

“And perhaps we might trade our technology? Such would allow both of us survive and prosper; a key to allowing us to help each other,” Morgan continued as he pressed his advantage.

“No,” Zakharov said. Then he paused. “I don’t believe that I want to do that at this time. Perhaps in the future.”

“Very well,” Morgan said. “I hope our friendship treaty will allow us to continue this dialog, and perhaps you might decide that our files on Centauri Ecology might be of interest. We will gladly trade this technology for what you might have, to your great advantage.”

Now it was Zakharov’s turn to pause. “Perhaps,” he said. “I’ll consider it. Zakharov out.”

The screen went blank.

Morgan thought that his meeting had gone well. It was disappointing that Zakharov wasn’t willing to trade technology, but that issue could be pressed later. The important thing is that a dialog had been established, and that a treaty of friendship had been finalized.

More would come. Morgan was sure of it.

**Hydro** · September 25, 2003, 12:46

Sparta, MY 2136

“So what exactly is a terra-former?” Santiago had never asked any questions during the morning briefing, ever, until now.

Director Boothe was frozen in place for a few seconds as she looked around the room.

“We spend 11 turns of valuable research, energy credits and manpower for a “terra-former”. I understand that after this meeting you planned on giving me a more detailed analysis but I would rather discuss it here. My first question is, as I stated, is what is a terra-former. Second, how do we justify the cost of building these over building more ships and military equipment? Lastly, how do we plan on paying for these machines when our budget is focused on military expenditures.”

Boothe stood frozen. She glanced down at her paperwork for a few minutes and then looked up.

“Colonel, first the terra-former is a exactly what it sounds like, it terra-forms the land. We have combined several machines into one crawler based hull. It can bulldoze, dig, crush and haul enormous amounts of material. It has storage and processing facilities for seedlings for farms and a hybrid tree sapling that we think will grow and grow very quickly on Chiron. Another of the features it has is it can clear fungus. We can at last uncover the numerous resource rich sectors that carpet Sparta and utilize them to the fullest. The crawler can support a team of specialist for some time while in the field as they terra-form the land. The main reason for the design of the terra-former was the breakthrough by the biological/chemical research group. They were able to bio-engineer our earth seedlings that we brought with us to thrive on Chiron. With this ability we no longer have to relay on our hydroponics/airponics labs for food production. Instead of transporting soil and water to our cities for food production we can now plant outside of the pressure dome and grow larger crops. This was a major breakthrough, which will allow us to expand our food production and mineral production. We can build farms, solar panels, mines and roads!” Boothe had become somewhat impassioned by this point and had stepped to the side of the podium while speaking. “To answer part of your second question the cost of the a terra-former is about the same production cost as a colony pod. However, I have worked out an agreement with several civilian manufacturing facilities that will help ease the cost and operations of these units. These firms will operate the terra-formers and staff them. In exchange they will receive a small percentage of the energy, minerals or foodstuffs from any terra-formed area. This will free our military staff and manufacturing facilities from supporting these machines and crews.”

“Director Boothe, assuming I am persuaded to accept this plan how would you alter our current production schedules?” Santiago replied.

“Colonel, as soon as Sparta Command completes the recycling tanks I would issue orders for the production of one terra-former. When Hero’s Waypoint completes the colony pod they are building I would ask that you have them build two terra-formers. I would also suggest that the recycling tanks that were just started at Bunker 118 are stopped and that one terra-former is built there. I would also recommend that Ironholm would stop production as well on their tanks and build two terra-formers. Parade ground would complete the transport under construction now and the colony pod scheduled after that but once that is done they would build a sea-former or a terra-former designed to do the same thing as a land version but on the water.” Boothe finished and looked at Santiago.

Santiago had turned to her aide Longstreet and whispered back and forth for several minutes. Longstreet opened up a small laptop computer and began typing away. Not a sound in the room could be heard except for the light clicks of the keyboard. They continued to whisper for several minutes more and then Longstreet closed his computer.

“Make the changes as you have suggested Director Boothe. I see the value in these terra-formers and from what Longstreet has shown me the potential increase in production far outweighs any cost of the terra-former program. I also agree with your recommendation to turn over the management of the terra-former to a civilian control with military oversight and review. I want you department to establish a sub-directory to provide that oversight. I want to make sure you negotiate a good deal with these firms. I want an excellent return for the rights to the terra-former program, is that clear?”

“Yes Colonel” Boothe replied as she gathered up her binders and sat down.

Lt. Colonel Mannsfield walked back to the platform. “Okay, well I think we need to make some production changes to the briefing books and that will be sent out by end of today. Now, I think we need to hear from Major Hazra about the training schedules for the 2nd scout/rovers before they leave for overseas. I think it is crucial that they have the best equipment possible and that means laser weapons. I think that we will have the funding available before they leave so that we can have their rovers equipped with laser cannons. Major Hazra would you like to step in now?” Mannsfield stepped down from the podium and Hazra walked up.

Santiago continued to listen to the rest of the reports but her mind was on two things. One, getting the 2nd scout/rovers overseas as fast as possible and two, the terra-formers. If they terra-formers could unlock the vast potential that Sparta had buried beneath the fungus then that alone would be worth the investment. But it would still be more time, more time.…

*!*!*!*

Morgan Industries, MY 2136

“Prime Function,” Morgan said. “To what do I owe this pleasure?”

“I require your files on Biogenetics,” Aki said. Her gaze, as before, was blank but strangely penetrating. To Morgan it was as if she was looking through him, or perhaps into him. With her cybernetic implants that was a disquieting thought.

“That can be arranged. However, our gifting our valuable data to your people will require some sort of gesture of good will on your part. Information is power, after all, and if we are to entrust this data with you we must be assured of your good will,” Morgan said.

The strange wash occurred again, and Aki’s face seemed to tremble for a split second. Then she focused on Morgan. “We will grant you the map files for Zakharov’s lands. This is data of little interest of us, but it will be adequate to demonstrate our…good will.” Aki labored with the last phrase as if it were foreign, or difficult to grasp.

“That will be acceptable,” Morgan said. He didn’t let it show, be he was elated. Map files! Now he would know much more of this planet than before.

The screen went blank. The CEO noticed that there was a green light and a chirp, indicating that the map files had been received.

Morgan eagerly called them up, and was elated once again. It showed that Aki and the University were on an island! The Cyborg scout was a visitor on Morgan’s continent. It was clear that neither faction could easily expand. By comparison, the land bridge from Morgan’s linear landmass was connected to a much larger landmass! Its exact dimensions were indistinct, but it was huge. Another prime feature is that he hadn’t given them Morganite map data; that was key to maintaining a reasonable information advantage on potential adversaries. And, he noticed that the Morganites had as many or more bases as the Cyborgs and University, and that number would expand as the en-route colony pod was established in two years, and once the other colony pod was completed next year.

For the first time in a long while Morgan was content. Now he could pursue his aggressive expansion without concern of butting heads with the Cyborgs.

This was excellent. Superb!

*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 2137

Assistant Director Andrea Smith looked around her small office that contained two desks, one computer and two chairs. Across the hall her administrative support team of three people were trying to sort out there small area as well. Andrea smiled to herself and wondered why in the world did she ever allow Boothe to convince her to take this new department of terra-forming oversight and land management. It was a farce. There weren’t even any terra-formers yet to oversight let alone manage. A soft knock on the door behind her caused her to turn around and standing there were two young men dressed in civilian worker clothes.

“Can I help you?” Andrea asked.

“We have been sent by the directors of Firstar and Ironworks to bring you these items as a token of their appreciation and hopes that they can build a long term relationship with this office and with you.” One of them two young men said.

“I suppose, sure, what is it a fruit basket?” She halfway joked.

“No, not that.” He replied. It took the two men nearly half of the day to unload the items they had been sent with. New state of the art computers, expensive office furniture, a holo-projection table completely set-up that showed all of the land of Sparta in detail and tons of more material, much, much more.

Andrea just watched as they moved more and more stuff in, her staff of four trying to sort it all out. Well, perhaps this would not be so bad after all she thought.

*!*!*!*

Morgan Industries, MY 2137

“My. That was a nasty mindworm attack,” Morgan said as he reviewed the scout data on the Cyborg scout party.

“Yes, sir. They barely survived,” Rothchild stated.

“And they have now retreated further south,” Morgan commented as he pointed to the map schematic. “Is our scout team prepared to follow?”

“Yes. They have already communicated their state of readiness, which is excellent. Their scout leader has offered the opinion that it is vital to continue south to both explore this prime territory and determine the fate of the Cyborg team.”

“I concur,” the CEO said. “Very well. Tell the scout team leader…what is his name?”

“Her name. She was newly promoted to Lieutenant, so she is Lieutenant Sharpton,” Rothchild said.

“Lieutenant Sharpton is to be told that I personally am in support of her recommendation, and that I anticipate their reports.”

Rothchild cocked his head up toward the CEO. “Why don’t you tell them yourself? It would mean a great deal to them to have a personal message from you, sir.”

“Excellent idea. I will compose the missive immediately. Be sure to forward me their communication channel, and the best time to contact them.”

“Very good, sir,” Rothchild said as he made a note to himself.

*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 2138

Commandant Paulus watched the cranes lower the reactor core into the transport hull. Once the core was installed and the radioactive shielding was put into place the shipyard workers could complete the hookups for the water/steam exchange system. The work on the engine should be done by next turn and then it would only take the dockyard a turn, perhaps two to complete the rest of the superstructure work and the ship could be launched. Paulus smiled to himself as he continued to watch the workers scrambling like ants all over the transport. It was tough work, work he wished that he could spread out and give these people some rest but that was not the case.

“Commandant, I have a message from Colonel Santiago. She is informing us that she will attend the launching ceremony in two turns. She hopes that sea trials can be completed quickly and perhaps while in route to the new continent.” Paulus took the message from his aide who, as usual, had seemed to have a knack at sneaking up behind him. He sometimes wished that he had more passion for his administrative duties rather than looking for any excuse to run outside and watch the work on the transport or observe the garrison during training exercises.

“Inform the Colonel that she is most welcome to attend.” Paulus handed the message back and went back to watching the workers.

*!*!*!*!*

Morgan Distribution, MY 2138

“Ladies and Gentlemen, I am pleased to dedicate this new base, the fifth we have established since our landing on Chiron.” Cheers started to ripple through the crowd, and Morgan raised his hand to wave at the assembled colonists. Morgan was smiling broadly.

Then Morgan waved down the crowd and the clapping subsided. “Your efforts are advancing our society, making it prosper by expanding our boundaries. Yes, you are the key to our prosperity, not the bankers sitting at Industries.”

Appreciative chuckles, and a few laughs.

“We will not be able to provide for our children, and grandchildren, but sitting on our laurels. Yes, we have done well, perhaps better than any of us could have expected considering our catastrophic start with the breakup of Unity. But, we have pulled together, found common cause. Our sad experiences on long lost Earth do not bear this out. We must stay united, keep our common purpose and do all that we can to ensure our values are kept true.

“Once again, I congratulate you. Be assured that the Board will support your efforts, and this same Board has approved 25 megacredits, fully 2/3 of our treasury, to help you complete your terraformer. This shows our support of your efforts, for in supporting you we are supporting everyone.

I always wish you well, and a profitable future,” the CEO said. Then he smiled again and waved.

Cheers and clapping waxed once again.

*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 2139

Chief technician grade-7 Mikal Golonokov glanced around the control monitoring the progress of the terra-former as it slowly crawled along through the fungus. It had taken them several months to move south from Ironholm to the rich nutrient laden sector, a sector that was covered in fungus. His orders from the office of terra-forming oversight and management were clear: remove the fungus, build a road, plant the genetically engineered tree saplings and then build a sensor array. It was an ambitious schedule to say the least, perhaps too ambitious for the first terra-forming project sector. Another terra-former was being built at Ironholm but it would be at least another 5 to 6 turns before it was done. With the extra terra-former Golonokov had no doubts that they could complete the project in half the time but until it arrived it would just be them.

“Chief, we have arrived at the coordinates sent by command.” The terra-former driver reported.

“ALL STOP!” Golonokov barked. “Deploy the parking struts and power down the engine to operation mode. Inform the crew that we will begin fungus removal operations within the hour.”

“Chief do you really think the “goop” will work?” The question came from Golonokov’s second in command technician grade-5 Tim Anderson.

“I do not know, it worked back at base, I saw it myself, it killed the fungus. However, how it will work out here, over an entire sector, your guess as is good as mine.” Golonokov unbuckled his harness and stood up and stretched. It was hard to believe, no hard to accept, that the fungus could be killed with something as simple as urine. Well, urine mixed with a whole host of other chemicals. The masterminds back at base had tried burning the fungus but the cost was too prohibitive. They had tried a whole host of other methods until some junior tech had come stumbled across the fact that the fungus only thrived in a very narrow band in the PH spectrum. If you made the soil more acid or move base it killed the fungus. That simple revelation had allowed the scientists to mix up a chemical solution spray using urine as the base component to kill the fungus. It was simple and cost effective.

Golonokov walked out of the cramped command center of the terra-former and down the hall past the crew quarters to his private compartment. He opened the door and entered and quickly closed it and locked it. Privacy. He was the only member of the team to have a private compartment. Golonokov sat down at his tiny desk and pulled out his portable computer and began to enter his log. One of the aspects of his mission command was very curious about was would be the effect on his men from being away from any form of civilization for long periods of time. Re-supply trucks would visit about every month and a crew rotation schedule was set but even with that it would mean long periods of time with no contact with the exception of the terra-former teams. Golonokov quickly entered the data into his computer and then hit the send button. He stood up and unlocked the door and then relocked the door as he left. Next stop the biological storage unit one deck below that contained the precious tree seedlings, the most precious cargo they had next to water.
Golonokov slid down the ladder to the bio-deck and stopped and jumped off the ladder. He turned around and punched in his access code to enter the storage area, the door hissed open as the pneumatic system released the locks and opened the door. A sudden rush of warm moist air hit his face and he quickly entered and hit the close button, which caused the doors to slam shut.

Inside the air was even warmer and moister and the special lights used to help grow the seedlings hurt his eyes. A man in a white coat was about half way down the long corridor checking some gauges.

“Lancaster, how are they today?” Golnokov asked

“They are growing very well. By the end of this turn we should be able to move them outside to the special greenhouse tent and began their acclimation to Chiron. As soon as these saplings hit that carbon dioxide rich air they will explode with growth. The tough part is if the genetic engineering built into these beauties will help them to withstand that rapid growth.”

Golonokov smiled and took another deep breath and looked around. Nearly half a million seeds were growing in the special hydroponics tables that were stacked five high and ran nearly the entire length of the former. Once the seedlings reached a certain size they would begin planting. The crawler had a special attachment that would plant four saplings every minute. It would take a while to get them all planted but it would be worth it in the end. Golonokov turned and left the bio-storage bay pleased that his work would one day make the Spartan nation the most powerful on Chiron!

**Hydro** · September 25, 2003, 12:48

Morgan Industries, MY 2139

Beep, beep…beep, beep…

Morgan snapped awake. “Morgan here,” he said to the darkness.

“Sir,” the voice said. “Priority report from Morgan Distribution. They just got a squirt from our scout patrol.”

“Yes?” Morgan said, now instantly awake.

“They report they’re under attack by a huge tube-like native unit. It is showering them with caustic spoors, and they’ve already taken significant damage. They also are seeing a mindworm flowing toward them.”

“Flowing?” Morgan asked.

“They’re words, sir. It looks like a wave coming through the fungus,” the voice said.

“Can they retreat?” Morgan said.

“They’re in the fungus, so they answer is probably not. The squirt came through a few minutes ago. Distribution hasn’t heard from them since. Do you have any orders?”

Morgan thought for a minute. “Not at this time. Make sure Distribution has all possible defenses. If necessary forward a request for an energy grant from the Board. They just produced a terraformer, so they don’t have a defender yet. Get some of our defense strategists on this. We need to know when the mindworms are likely to attack, and we have to know now.”

“Yes, sir. I’ll forward the information immediately. Priority status?”

“Red,” Morgan said. “Understood?”

“Perfectly sir,” the voice said.

The line went dead. Morgan reflected that he had recently sent a congratulations to the new Lieutenant Sharpton. It would be sad if they were lost.

*!*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 2140

“I name this vessel, S.F.T. HAULER!” The bottle struck the bow and exploded as the transport ship eased backwards along the ramp/rail system and slid into the water with a great “whoosh” of water. S.F.T. ( Spartan Federation Transport ) Hauler was now a sea going vessel.

“As soon as she is ready get her loaded ASAP!” Santiago quietly said to Commandant Paulus who was standing right beside her. “Make sure the 2nd scout/rovers can leave next turn for the new continent.”

“Colonel, its all been worked out. HAULER will leave next turn with the 2nd loaded and ready to go. It might take some extra effort to clear the sea fungus just out there but once they do it should be clear sailing.” Paulus replied.

“Make sure it does, Commandant.” Santiago stepped back and down from the stage and walked down the ramp towards the massive transport. Paulus watched Santiago as she seem to drink in every line, every aspect of the ship. If she was so intrigued about a transport Paulus wondered what she would act like when she saw a attack foil for the first time.

*!*!*!*

Morgan Industries, MY 2141

Morgan stared at the holo screen, and it was an understatement that he was less than happy. To date neither the Cyborgs nor the University were willing to trade technology on the premise that they didn’t want certain secret projects to fall into his hands. Well, fair enough.

But now that Morganite scientists had made a breakthrough in Planetary Networks they still weren’t willing to trade! It made no sense, no sense at all. It was even more disturbing that they demanded Morganite files on Centauri Ecology, and that they seemed perturbed when Morgan said no. They were willing to impoverish their people by denying them the advantages of basic terraforming for no reason. Or at least, no reason he could fathom.

These two faction are disturbed, Morgan decided. Neither was behaving rationally. At least Zakharov has entered into a friendship treaty, but that was all. Perhaps that would be a beginning. The Cyborgs were a different matter since they were closer.

Morgan banished those thought from his mind since they are long range problems. Right now there were reports that the mindworm that had destroyed his scout was still out there, and that it was likely to advance on his new base. Worse, mindworms had appeared at Morgan Collections, reportedly adjacent to the base. Orders had been sent to the garrison to eliminate the threat, but there may be more. That was a distressing thought since defenses were thin.

Those orders had been sent; there was nothing left to do. Of it own volition Morgan’s thoughts drifted back to the Cyborgs. Planning was the key, and if properly executed it would be advantageous for all.

*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 2141

Lt. Commander Marshal Jorgenson scanned the surrounding seas with his mag-glasses looking for any sign of trouble. Jorgenson had issued orders to double the number of lookouts until they cleared this sea sector that was covered in fungus. No one knew for sure if there was a sea version of the mind worms but it was better to be safe than sorry. Marshal took no comfort in the fact that even though his transport was loaded with rovers and soldiers their weapons would only be effective when the creature struck the ship, he lacked any form of long-range weapons. He had been told that plans were completed for a laser armed attack foil, but no keel had been laid yet.

“Sir, we should be clearing the fungus area within the next 24 hours if our long range scans are correct. Is the course that we plotted back at Parade Ground sill in effect?” Jorgenson turned to his right to face the speaker, Lieutenant Sirius Carsten, his first officer.

“Yes, make sure the helmsmen and duty officer are clear that no change as of yet has been made. Until long range scans can give us more information as to what is out there we need to stay on course.” Marshal replied as he turned back to make another sweep with the glasses of the horizon.

“Aye sire!”

Marshal could hear his first officer turn and return to the bridge. He looked below at the lounging soldiers from the 2nd scout/rovers taking some much-needed rest. Ever since they had boarded the ship and left dock their commander had worked them around the clock. It seems he was adamant about his soldiers staying in peak condition and training, just earlier today they were practicing hand-to-hand combat on the foredeck. Marshal scanned his ship from stem to stern looking for any thing out of the ordinary, out of place, and found nothing. The naval training school that had been set up over a decade ago had prepared all of the officers and crew on his ship for the day the Spartans would have their first ship. It had been by the narrowest margin that he had beat out over 120 other candidates for the job as captain of the HAULER. Some of the naval candidates had refused to put their names forward since they hoped for a warship but for Marshal he just wanted any ship and HAULER was his. His current mission was simple: take the 2nd scout/rovers to the unknown lands to the west and return. After that task was accomplished he had been briefed on a plan to salvage three “possible” UNITY pods that had been spotted just off the coastline around Sparta Command. He would probably not have time to check on all three since he would have to return to Parade Grounds to pick-up the next colony pod and colonists destined for the new continent.

Marshal completed one last scan of the horizon and then turned and walked into the bridge and closed the outer door.

“CAPTAIN ON THE BRIDGE!” Chief bosons mates Reynolds yelled.

Marshal smiled to himself as he walked across the bridge to the map table and then checked the plot. The ship was handling excellent! The ship was at peak performance from the power plant all the way to down to the crew and they were making the fastest speed possible through the fungus. Marshal looked up and around the room and he was very proud to be the first captain of the first ship in the Spartan navy.

*!*!*!*!*

Morgan Industries, MY 2141

CEO Morgan was relieved.

Not only had Morgan Collections’ garrison attacked and destroyed a mindworm that landed next to it, collecting a nice bounty of planetpearls, but it had also survived an attack of a healthy mindworm that erupted out of the fungus. The garrison had been severely weakened, up to 50 percent if reports were to be believed. It turned out the key was the sensor – it gave the garrison the edge it needed to prepare. Granted it was now critically damaged, but they survived and preserved the citizens from almost certain death.

There were other bits of good news: the sixth Morganite base had been established! Only a few weeks ago Morgan had been presiding at the dedication of Morgan Robotics. The base could take advantage of the wet, fertile area on the west side of the rise. This was good since it would save considerable terraforming time, and make the base immediately productive. Another key would that 25 megacredits had been allocated to finish the former at Morgan Robotics, resulting in the sixth terraformer active in Morganite territory. Actually, there seven had been constructed, but one had been lost decades ago in a mindworm attack. Overall they were a wonderful investment, but they left the base vulnerable while resources for the garrison were formed.

Yes, it had been a good year. Threats had been removed, and the expansion plan was being executed. Threats still existed, like the mindworm that killed the scout team, but that would be taken care of. Or, Morgan hoped they would be.

*!*!*!*

Sparta, MY 2142

Santiago quickly walked down the hallway into the command center and made a straight line for Mannsfield.

“Is it true? They have found land so soon?” She asked in a very slightly raised voice.

“It looks that way Colonel. The report we got from HAULER informs us that they expect to reach land next turn. The sonar reports indicate they crossed over a continental shelf and it is raising fast. The captain of the hauler should be able to deposit the 2nd next turn and quickly come about to check out the possible UNITY POD to the north. Then it can return to Parade ground, as planned, and pick up the colony pod.” Mannsfield handed her the report, which she quickly took from him and read several times. After she finished it she handed it back and asked.

“I am still not sure if we should investigate the pods now, if they are pods. The action seems almost desperate and the HAULER lacks any escort ships.” Santiago turned around to examine the holo-table map.

“Colonel, we need the resources, if they are out there, you know it as well as I. We need to check it out. The fact that Sparta Command has embarked on this genetic research, something I am still not comfortable with consumes almost every morsel of minerals and energy and most importantly research staff. I understand that it will be useful to us but at what expense. Even with the energy output the alien artifact is giving off that allows our labs and research facilities to run around the clock it is still a great burden.” Mannsfield stated quietly as he walked up beside Corazon. Mannsfield had kept his comments low and Corazon only heard them. Regardless of Mannsfields feelings he was a soldier and as such when an order was given he followed it.

“Understood Lt. Colonel but I think you are being too cautious. The alien battle robot allows us to expand our population and resources due to the protection it gives. No other Spartan city has this ability so we must take the lead. Right now our energy production is at an all time high. We need to combine all of these positive elements into one effort, the human genome project. With it we can unlock the secrets of our very essence and with that power we can make even better soldiers. At first I was skeptical too but after Boothe advised me of the possibilities that it could bring I decided that we must have it. Good night Mannsfield.” Corazon turned and left the room leaving a very tired Lt. Colonel behind.

*!*!*!*!*

Morgan Industries, MY 2142

“Anything new?” Morgan asked.

Rothchild clicked through his PDA for a moment. “No, sir,” he said. “Just updates. Our population has grown to 10,000 people, and our terraformers are busy, very busy. One is building a solar panel on a high-altitude farm, a second is leveling a rocky sector where there are the strange energy sources you’ve been advised of. Others are building roads and forests.”

“Very good. Any more mindworm attacks noted? Perhaps at Collection?” Morgan said.

“None reported yet, and I hope not for a long time. All is quiet.”

Morgan nodded. “Then it is time for to end our meeting. Good night Mr. Rothchild.”

“Good night, sir,” he said as he turned and left.

**Hydro** · September 25, 2003, 12:49

Sparta, MY 2143

Captain Morning watched his rovers maneuver up the large hills and made a mental note to check with the sergeant Ross, fire team leader of rover four, to check the rear axel it didn’t look right. Since the landing they had moved steadily west with contact with anything. They had done a considerable amount of mapping. To the north a long wall of fungus stretched from the coastline where they landed to the other side of the continent or so he thought. That information had prompted him to call back to command and get guidance. Their advice was to move south and avoid the wall for now. The key aspect to their mission was to find a suitable site for the next colony pod, pod number seven. It would be done in four turns and with the distance being so short between the Sparta and the new continent the transport could get it over in a turn. So, time was at a premium. They had to find a site that offered access to minerals, nutrients or energy sources. So far they had found a lot of land, some of it fungus covered but nothing of any special note.

“Sir, we have reached the coordinates to turn south!” His driver shouted at him. Morning keyed in the communication frequency for the 2nd.

“All rover commanders this is red-sword one. Make your turn south now and form up on red-sword one. We will make camp at 18:00hrs. Red-sword one out!” He closed the channel and waited for the rover commanders to confirm, which they all did promptly.

Morning’s driver put the rover in a steep turn and he felt his stomach jump. Field rations had never been his first choice; in fact, they had been the one thing he hated about his job he had from birth a sensitive stomach. He turned to his driver who had a nasty grin on his face and he knew he had done it on purpose. It had become a small joke between them on how soon he could jolt his commander’s stomach. If it were not for the fact that Argyle was the best driver in the regiment he would have busted him down to cook.

“Try and take it easy on me today Argyle, I had chicken-ala-king for breakfast since someone could not find any of the breakfast packs. You wouldn’t know anything about that you would private?” Argyle had a mock lock of shock on his face. Morning turned back to watch the rovers, yes, they were doing fine. He just hoped that this turn south would turn up something.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2143

“And how did we come upon this choice bit of information?” Morgan asked.

Rothchild smiled. “Privileged sources, sir.”

The CEO gave him a skeptical look. “You don’t know, do you.”

“You got me. We intercepted a Cyborg transmission. Actually, it was a distress call. It seems one of their transports got into trouble when investigating a Unity pod floating off their coast. Here, see for yourself.”

Rothchild handed Morgan his PDA and touch activated the playback. It showed a primitive looking transport racing away from a moving pinkish mound. Then, the mound started moving, and it seemed to be gaining on the transport. The crew started screaming, one of them near the edge of the images dropping, apparently unconscious. Another out of the holo image was saying ‘Oh, mygod! Ohmygod!!!’. There was a splash to the left; someone just went overboard. Distracted, the holo flicked left, showing a woman swimming away from the transport and toward the moving mass. The holo flicked back to the stern, and now the moving mass was truly huge. Gradually the holo image drooped, then fell to the floor. More screaming, and babbling.

Silence.

Then the image ceased.

Morgan was silent for a moment. “What was that?”

“We’re not sure. It looks like a sea vector of the mindworms. If so, that will make travel by sea very hazardous.”

Morgan simply nodded in mute agreement.

“Get me everything you can on this horror. When we build a navy we must be prepared.”

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2144

Santiago stood next to the table along with the other command staff members trying to decide if the new colony spot was acceptable or not. The 2nd had found an area that offered excellent room for expansion and it did have an area rich in uranium deposits. One of the other features of the colony site would be its location on high ground. In fact, one of the more interesting aspects that the 2nd had reported back was that the new western continent was much higher than Sparta; the highest point so far was over 1,700 meters, nearly 500 hundred meters higher than the highest point on Sparta.

“So we are agreed.” Santiago used a pointer to indicate the spot on the holo-table where the seventh colony pod would be located. She looked around and everyone nodded his or her heads. “So in two turns the pod will be completed then another turn to load it onto HAULER and then a turn for HAULER to sail across the straights here and then a three turns to move into position and build the colony. That make a total, by my count, of seven turns to get our seventh colony up and running.” Again she looked around the room and they nodded their heads in agreement. “Once the recycling tanks are built at Parade Ground I want another colony pod built ASAP. After that Director Boothe wants us to transport a terra-former over to the new land to help with improvements there. I concur.”

“Colonel?” Mannsfield interrupted her, “That might put a small glitch in our plans to have HAULER investigate those possible UNITY pods. As it stands now she was unable to breach the fungus fields fast enough so she had to abandon the plan. As it stands now HAULER is doing nothing more than shuttling back and forth between Sparta and the new lands.”

“I understand your concern Mannsfield but I think an opportunity to have HAULER check out those pods will be available once she deposits the seventh colony pod. Parade ground has to build recycling tanks and a colony pod. I think that will give her nearly 12 to 15 turns before she is needed back at Parade Ground.” Santiago glanced again around the room and no one else said anything.

“Excellent, I am very pleased so far with our progress and I want to commend Director Boothe and her people in the work they have done. Soon we will have cleared and planted three sectors of land that will increase our production and our resource base. Also, Major Stewart and Director Boothe have just told me prior to this meeting that they expect another breakthrough in the next three turns. Even though we are tapping only a fraction of the energy potential of the boreholes it is still enough to boost our research rate greatly.” Santiago waited for the other command members to also congratulate the two and then continued. “There is still a lot of hard work ahead of us and even more “unknowns” so we must work harder and do everything within our power to maximize our resources. I want a report from each of you as to what you can do within your departments on energy conservation.” They all nodded again, acknowledging her orders.

“All right, lets get to work!” Santiago put the pointer down and Mannsfield yelled out, “ORDER ARMS!” and they all saluted. Santiago returned the salute and turned and left the command center.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2144

“Most of the rocky ground was removed, allowing us to fully utilize this sector’s potential,” Terraforming Specialist Kakra said. “At this point we can access the fully biologic potential of this rainy area, as well as the still abundant mineral deposits. Of course, the energy lode was always there, but it didn’t make economic sense to utilize the area. There were much more likely areas that were more profitable.”

Morgan displayed signs of being impatient. “What is the bottom line, Doctor.”

“The bottom line is that this improvement boosted energy production by 67 percent, which translates into one extra megacredit of energy for the national treasury and more research resources, which are always welcome,” she said.

“Was it worth eight years of effort?” Board Member Terrance B. Warren III asked.

“In my opinion, yes,” Kakra stated. “This area will be a linchpin and, as it stands, will require no more terraforming at our present level of technology. We could have built a solar collector, but this takes six years. Focusing on this sector increased food production and made the sector viable.”

Morgan leaned forward. “I accept your analysis. Are there other sectors that could benefit from such modification?”

“Yes. There are several nutrient lodes, similar to that utilized by Morgan Industries, which currently are obscured by xenofungus. A few others are handicapped by rock formations, as was this energy source.”

“Couldn’t we construct a forest and wait for it to grow into the fungus?” Warren asked.

“Yes, but that is not something you can count on. We have seen two sectors of fungus be replaced by forest, which is welcome, but we can’t predict this, not yet at least. I recommend we combine our terraforming effort with roads, and coordinate this with our colonization efforts. A secondary strategy is to devote a few formers to interior work, refining and honing our sectors at established bases, while allocating two-thirds of the formers to our frontier.”

“That seems prudent,” Morgan said. “Any other discussion?”

Warren seemed like he was about to say something, and then changed his mind.

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2145

Commandant Reginald Fitz-Wallace III walked along the path with his staff in tow. They had decided to visit the first forest ever planted on Sparta or on Chiron for all they knew. Both Director Boothe, Ast. Director Smith and Colonel Santiago wanted a first hand report of their forest operation and recommendations for the next project. This sector had always been very prosperous since it was rich in nutrients but with the addition of the forest mineral production hand doubled and an increase in energy. The major problem facing Fitz-Wallace and his colony, Bunker 118, was the lack of arable sectors. The wind patterns on Sparta and the mountains to the west caused much of the free moisture to fall on the western slopes of the mountains leaving the eastern slops arid. Also, much of the land surrounding Bunker 118 was covered in fungus.

“Okay gentleman, we have seen the forest, watched the civilian workers care and manage the forest so what else is there?” Fitz-Wallace had never enjoyed accepted, or liked, the idea of being a base commandant. He wanted a combat command more than anything so inspecting a forest was near the bottom of his list.

“Sir, Asst. Director Smith and her terra-forming department have sent forward several recommendations as to how they wish to proceed. They recommend that the terra-formers be allowed to move south and plant another sector of forests.” Fitz-Wallace’s aide replied.

“Yes, yes, yes. I have read that too. However, we are cut-off out here. The fungus fields to the west make it next to impossible for any reinforcements to reach us. So I am going to recommend to the Colonel and Director Booth and Ast. Director Smith that we build a long-range sensor array in this area. The forest will provide excellent cover for the site. It will be able to scan an area two sectors in all directions giving us good coverage to our north, east and west. It will also provide excellent surveillance of the fungus and surrounding sea sectors. I think it is crucial to our operations here. When the sensor is complete the terra-former can move south and clear the sector just south of Bunker 118 and plant another forest along with a sensor array. That would give us a 360 degree coverage, two sectors deep of the entire area around our city.” Fitz-Wallace had stopped during while talking and was looking at a group of civilians harvesting several trees.

“I will write up that recommendation and add the tactical analysis you have given Commandant and send that to command. I am sure they will have to agree with your recommendations based on this.” His aide replied as he waited for his commandant to return to the speeder.

“Yes, I hope they will or else. I know you know how much I hate this job but if I am going to do it I want to have the best city in all of Sparta. Once we get our recycling tanks done we can begin with Asst. Director Smiths plan to build a sea version of the terra-former. By harvesting the fruits of the sea we can double our nutrient production over any land sector and increase our energy reserves by building those tidal wave energy collectors. Then we can start on building another garrison unit for our city and much, much more.” Fitz-Wallace had at last tired of watching the civilians harvesting the trees and began walking back to the speeder. Yes, once he had made Bunker 118 a shining example of his efficiency then command would surely allow him a transfer to a combat command.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2145

“Board Members,” Morgan began, “we have a proposal by the base administrator at Morgan Antimatter to allow 40 megacredits of energy so that they can complete their recycling tank five years ahead of schedule. Here is a summary of their rationale.”

Morgan paused while Rothchild shunted the details to their datapads. Each board member called up the specifics of the proposal, which boiled down to a 50 percent increase in surplus food, a 25 percent increase in industrial capacity, and a 20 percent increase in energy production. All told, the allocation would net Morgan Antimatter 15 extra units of production, which was significant. Moreover, it would allow it to start on another infrastructure improvement and complete it five years or more ahead of schedule.

There were many nods as the Board read the text and scanned through the graphics, some of which blinked into existence above the board member, who then took the trouble to interrogate the model with soft but distinctly spoken commands. Soon this became a spectator sport to some, with a few participants vying for the most penetration question that would make the simulation fall apart.

None was able to do so.

Nwabudike was pleased. Here was a group of highly intelligent and motivated men and women, the best humanity had to offer. They were putting this proposal through its paces, just as he had done. His analysis was complete, and it looked like the board members were reaching the same conclusion. Although it was a significant outlay, it was well worth it.

“Is there any discussion?” he asked.

“Yes,” Director Shirer said. “It is an almost water tight case. The only question that remains is can we afford it? In my opinion the answer is yes. We will still have almost 20 megacredits left, and we will replenish our treasury in four or five years. It seems like a wise investment. For me, though, the clincher is that they will be able to start on a recreation commons next year, which will prepare them for bigger, grander projects.”

There was a chorus of agreement and affirmations.

“Then, as President of this board, I call for a vote,” Morgan said.

The vote was unanimous.

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2146

Santiago read the recommendations sent forward by Hazra for the next class of officer candidates. She had reserved the right to approve or disapprove any cadet wishing to enter the academies. For the most part her review was only cursory and she rarely ever went against the recommendations made by the officer candidate committee. What she looked for were the marginal candidates to see if they should be allowed to enter or not. Sometimes she would even interview them in order to get a better feel for the cadet and his possible leadership skills. The “marginal” candidate she was going to meet today was Carlos Sanchez, her suspected son. He had adequate marks in all areas but nothing stood out. When “asked” by a superior to take charge he did so but and performed “adequately” but he never asked for command nor while in command took any chances. The door announcer began to beep, Carlos was here, she hit the unlock button and the door opened. A very young man of almost 18 years of age, had it been that long? He marched up to her desk and snapped a crisp salute and waited for her to return it.

“At ease,” She returned the salute and he assumed the position of parade rest. “Do you know why I asked you here today cadet?”

“I would bet it was concerning my application for officer school, Colonel.” He replied.

“Why do you want to be an officer?” She asked.

“Because I do.” He said curtly.

“Well, that is not an adequate answer, not be a long shot. I need officers that will lead men into combat, into situations that they might loose everyone of them in order to accomplish the mission. The greatest challenge before a military leader is after he has trained his men and women does he have the courage to order them into harms way. Do you have the courage?” She barked back, upset at his smug response.

“Yes colonel I do.” He shot back.

“Your records do not indicate that willingness in any way. In fact, they place you near the bottom for any possibility of becoming an officer. You seem to lack any desire to command so why should I give you a chance when I know someone else might actually use the opportunity?” She was becoming annoyed with her “son”; his arrogance had no end it seemed.

“Colonel, school is school, combat is combat. I never as much effort into military training school because it was just that, school. If you give me the chance at the academy I will not let you do or our nation. I promise you.” His response was full of conviction and honesty. Santiago watched him for a moment waiting if he would panic and try and say something else to sway her but he held his ground.

“Okay, I will place you on probation. You are in providing you remain in the upper 10% of your class. Is that understood cadet?” She stood up and waited for his response.

“Yes colonel it is!” He shot back with a smile in his eyes.

“Dismissed cadet!” He saluted her and she returned it and he performed a picture perfect 180 turn and left her office. She stood there for a few minutes remembering that she had disliked preparatory school as well.

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