Paradigms

[Hydro]

Morgan Interstellar, MY 2146

The opening ceremonies were now over and Morgan could enjoy the afterglow. It was always satisfying when a new base was formally inaugurated, and this was the seventh Morganite base to be established. True, it was on moderately useful territory, but it had potential. But, more importantly, it now meant Morganite population was equal to that of Zakharov, and significantly more than the enigmatic Cyborgs. With more bases and population it logically followed that there would be more resources, and long-term success. Let Zakharov and Aki hoard their intellectual resources – the same would happen to them in the future, unless they paid the price, of course.

Morgan smiled almost constantly and worked the crowd with fervor. As with all ceremonial events, it was an opportunity to press the flesh as any good politician would. Technically he knew he wasn’t more than the leader of the Board of Directors, established after the last Unity faction had been defeated. In truth he was the leader of these people and he took pride that they reflected his values more every day. Even the old Unity officers were loyal, if subordinate, supporters. They had been willingly co-opted long ago.

The only worry was future growth. Three core bases were now given over to internal improvements and, as such, colony production had slowed. This was now in the hands of the three small bases, and they wouldn’t have more colony pods ready for a decade or more. Now that there were six terraformers, soon to be seven now that Morgan Interstellar had received its 25 megacredits to complete its own terraformer, land change projects would accelerate. Forests, roads, farms, sensors, and even a few solar panels would dot and then cover the land. There was not ample time to create roads, sensors and improvements to new colony sites. Still, in four to six years he knew he would have double the population of the Cyborgs and twice as many bases: likewise with Zakharov.

Time was on his side, and CEO Nwabudike Morgan knew it.

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2147

Commandant Willard Smithe watched the colonists below working hard to complete the final work needed to get the newest Spartan colony up and running. Colonel Santiago had allowed him to name his colony, as was now the tradition and he choose to name the sixth Spartan colony, the Citadel. The Citadel was the last colony to be established on the Sparta Island all future colonies would be established overseas. Probably for the next two decades the Spartan cities would build, equip and staff the colony pods for oversea deployment but after that the new colonies would be required to shoulder the burden of expansion while the core Spartan cities made needed improvements. His colony, the Citadel, was operational but there was still work to do, but the most important work would still take another turn or two, the completion of the garrisons weapons. The garrison for Citadel still lacked the laser rifles and laser cannon sleds that were being built and assembled as fast as they could in the just assembled assembly areas. After establishing the colony the command staff had ordered Parade Ground to relinquish control of the mineral/nutrient rich sector to the north in order for Citadel to get a good start. Parade Ground had little need for the sector since they had just dispatched half of their population on the seventh colony pod that left harbor aboard the HAULER.. It would be nearly four turns before Commandant Chang Ki-Ro would be able to establish his colony on the new lands to the west. Smithe had been ordered to build his garrison first and then concentrate on recycling tanks and then he would have to build a colony pod, one destined for the lands to the east. Once HAULER deposited her precious cargo of colonists it would return to the central Spartan seas and investigate those possible UNITY pods. After that he had been told that HAULER would transport the 1st scout/rovers to the lands in the east to scout for a colony site for the colony pod destined to be built here.

“Commandant, if you could sign these forms to authorize more workers to the production of the laser weapons?” Smithe’s aide, Captain Shelly Anderson had quietly walked up behind him while he was thinking and watching. The observation deck just above the command center had become his favorite spot to get away from the turmoil and chaos below. He was an excellent soldier but he had never been good at the paperwork, administration was not his favorite area. Luckily he had Shelly Anderson to help him with it. She was his right and left hand when it came to managing this place and he had already decided that when the next colony pod would be built he would put her name down for the list of candidates for commandant.

“Thank you captain.” He took the papers and quickly signed them and handed them back. “So how goes things today?”

“Excellent Commandant. If the promised energy credits arrive from command we can complete the work on the weapons next turn and begin training our garrison with them. It was good planning by command that they sent with us a core group of non-comm’s who were already familiar with laser weapons to train our soldiers.” She replied as she put the papers into a folder she was carrying.

“Yes, command does seem to think of everything. Captain have you seen latest map files that they forwarded to us?” He asked as he continued to watch the people below.

“Yes Commandant. It is amazing to think how much land is over there just waiting for us to claim it. Once we can get some colonies up and running over there and especially a few terra-formers we should be able to expand our holdings and resources greatly. Why, the mountains over there alone will give us the ability to set-up a massive solar collection stations that could supply power for all of Sparta.”

“Yes,” He turned to face her and moved to the door leading to the stairwell to the command bunker. “However, I am not sure if expanding to the west is the best route. Command wants to expand to the east as well. This way both the right and left flank to Sparta will be strong enough to shield the home island and us. The plan is ambitious but I am sure Santiago will find a way to get it done. I know that she plans on sending the 1st scout/rovers over to the east as soon as possible.”

“That would be fascinating and a great challenge to accept. I enjoy reading the reports from Captain Morning of the 2nd as he details all the things he finds and sees on the new continent. It is a great challenge to keep his team operational out there without any direct support or supplies. As soon as Commandant Chang gets his colony up and running at least Morning will be able to get fresh supplies and a base to service his rovers. From the last report they are almost directly south of us about seven sectors away, is that correct Commandant?” She asked as they walked down the stairs.

“Yes, they are still moving south by east and then they have orders to make a 180 degree turn and move back northwards along the far side of the continent thus completing their survey of the southern portion of the continent. When they begin to move back to the north they can refit at Chang’s new base.” He reached the bottom of the stairs and opened the doors and walked in.

“COMMAND ATTENTION, COMMANDANT ON THE DECK!” Shouted the master at arms who was responsible for security in the command bunker.

“AT EASE!” Smithe yelled and walked through the command bunker past the map tables and communication centers to his office, captain Anderson followed behind him.

Smithe walked up to the duty officer who’s desk sat just out side his office.

“Commandant, this update just came in from command for your eyes only.” The duty officer handed him a folder, which Smithe opened and read then handed it back to the duty officer.

“Put that to file.” Smithe turned and walked into his office followed by Anderson.

“What did the flash report say Commandant?”

“It was an update on the secret project at Sparta Command. It seems the alien artifact has been very useful to them in increasing their productivity. They expect to make a breakthrough in less than 20 turns! That could give the Spartan nation an incredible edge over any other group that might have survived the crash. We could either complete the genetic research or go with the project that Director Boothe is pushing for, the advanced terra-forming project. Either way it would give us an incredible boost.” Smithe sat down and began to fumble with the papers on his desk.

“Commandant, allow me, please.” Anderson worked around the desk and began to organize his papers. Smithe could only imagine how terrible things would be if he did not have Anderson around.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2147

“Well, this is interesting,” Morgan said as he accessed the Summary View and pulled up more information. A fragmentary image of a vessel plying the oceans appeared and then played for a few minutes. Then the craft, which was already at the edge of detection range, faded and disappeared to the west. “So now the Cyborgs have a navy?”

“So it would appear,” Rothchild said. “Our garrison at Interstellar only saw them for a moment, but we definitely saw a small sea craft, kind of like the old foils of Earth.”

“It is unfortunate that the Cyborgs seem to have no interest in sharing their technology,” Morgan commented as he viewed the image again. “I could see some use in such a device.”

“But not until our cities have grown a bit, sir,” Rothchild said.

Morgan looked up. He knew he was referring to the chronic support problems smaller Morgan bases had, and how this limited development and expansion. The problem largely went away when the population expanded to 2000 people, but before then there was typically only one industrial unit, which meant not much got built.

“Yes,” Morgan commented. “Of course.” Morgan was quiet for a moment. “Although we have a decent land mass to deal with it is limiting. If we had this technology we would be in the position to…acquire other technology, if we deemed it appropriate.”

Rothchild’s eyebrows went up ever so slightly. “Anything else, sir?”

“No. Take the rest of the day of. I’m turning in early,” Morgan said.

Rothchild inclined his head and turned to leave. It was only 8:30 pm, and it was unusual for the CEO to stop work so early. As he left he accessed some tell-tales and found that the CEO was feeling reasonably well except for a small buildup in lactic acid, indicating fatigue.

He shut the door behind him as he left.

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2148

“A WHAT!!” Santiago barked as she glared at Mannsfield, Boothe and Stewart.

“Colonel, I understand your disappointment but Boothe and Stewart have driven their departments hard and they are still working on projects with little success yet. However, Boothe’s civilian researchers have offered these designs for recreational commons to be built at each base. On the surface it does sound disappointing and as I said Colonel I understand your disappointment but please let Boothe explain.” Mannsfield asked hoping Santiago would check her temper for a few minutes and listen. He watched Santiago struggle for a few seconds with her anger, something she had gotten better at over the years.

“Okay Boothe, tell me why I should invest our time and efforts into building recreational commons at each base.” Santiago leaned back in her chair still glaring at them.

“Colonel, the answer is simple. Not every Spartan is a soldier. In time, even our soldiers retire from service and live and work in the civilian world. Our civilians and surprisingly even some of our citizens are unhappy that all of our efforts, all of our energy, all of our resources go into military applications and expansion. As our populations grow at each base I fear that resentment and anger will began to spread. I am not saying that a mutiny is brewing, our people are loyal and a good number of them our citizens, ex-soldiers who know that duty and honor and service are life long commitments but still this could be an issue, in time with the civilians. The civilian contractors that worked on these plans invested a great amount of research and time into studying the effects that recreational outlets have on the health and prosperity of people. If our people are happy they in turn will support our efforts even more. To put it simply Colonel we really do not want to see the day our soldiers have to put down riots in the streets. These recreational outlets will keep that from happening. Also, the contract proposal they forwarded with the plans seems very beneficial to both parties. They provide the plans and technical blueprints for the recreational machines and common areas and, in turn, we build the recreational commons. If we grant them an exclusionary contract to manage, maintain and staff the recreational areas they will pay us a substantial portion of the profits which we can use for our military operations.” Boothe pulled out from a folder a thick spiral bound book and put it on Corazon’s desk. “Its all in there Colonel. I think if you take the time to study it you will see that this is a good plan for us all.”

Corazon leaned forward and pulled the notebook towards her and began to read it. She continued on for several minutes and then glanced up at them, a look of annoyance on her face.

“You are dismissed!”

She then bowed her head and continued to read. The three of them quickly turned and left the room thinking that perhaps they had just dodged a very big bullet.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2148

Morgan continued to pore through his daily Situation Report, or SitRep for short. Each entry was merely a few sentences with hyperlinks if more information was needed. It was a good was to start the morning, although today’s looked a bit dull.

Item 23: New University sea base off their western coast. Intelligence estimates population at 11,000 at four bases.

Item 24: Cyborg population is 8000 with four bases. No evidence of sea bases at this time. No further information on the sea foil.

Item 25: Farm completed near Morgan Interstellar. One former continues west to build a road. Others will head east to build a forest, then a sensor.

Item 26: Former south of Morgan Distribution made it through the fungus successfully; no mindworms reported. The garrison went back to the base. The former’s mission is to construct a road and any appropriate terraforming in preparation of future colony sites.

Item 27: The two formers to the northeast have completed their forest, and the second is going to the coast to construct a road and a sensor. Estimated time to complete: seven years.

Item 28: Former completed road at solar panel near Morgan Collections. Former moved and successfully entered the fungus by Morgan Industries. Will begin removing fungus next year. Forest to the east now has spread to six sectors.

Item 29: Lead scientist Throanson suggests there will be a break thought next year. No speculation on what the breakthrough might be; they just know they are close to ‘something’.

Morgan read the last items with some apprehension. He knew what he wanted – a more advanced economic system, one that would provide the understanding to implement a Free Market system. But, he also knew not to be too hopeful since he had been disappointed in the past.

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2149

Santiago waited patiently for the enemy scouts to walk past her position, as she remained motionless beneath the fungus that covered her. She had issued orders to her team to remain still until the main body arrived. Suddenly there was shooting all around her and she realized that her plan had failed; someone had panicked. She eased herself up allowing the fungus to slid back down as she surveyed the scene. Chaos. The enemy scouts were all around the area and her team had reacted by firing thus exposing their positions.

“CEASE FIRE!” She yelled as she jumped up.

Everyone began to hold his or her fire and slowly stand up.

“WHAT THE HELL JUST HAPPENED!” She roared as she stomped into the middle of the training area. “Who opened fire first?"

“Colonel, I think it was me.” A young female officer cadet raised her hand. “The enemy had just stepped on top of me, on my back and I moaned. I turned over and fired.”

“Why didn’t you use your knife?" Santiago was tired, very tired. She had decided some field training was in order, more for her benefit than these cadets and now she almost regretted it. She did not have the patience anymore for training cadets, raw recruits.

“Colonel, I didn’t think.”

“That was your problem cadet. Your thinking or not thinking was the problem at least you go that right. In combat we Spartans need to rely on instinct. That is why we train and train and train to develop your instinct, your instantaneous reaction to a situation. When you think or lack of that is what causes failure in combat.” Corazon turned and looked around, as the other cadets seemed to be grasping it.

“Now, we will try this again and again and again until we get it right. Now, gather up and lets review what happened in more detail and then we can go on to the next training exercise.” Santiago kneeled down and pulled out a sheet of plastic covered paper that she could mark on. She watched the eager faces of the cadets as the crowded around. Some of the other command council leaders thought her time out here was a waste but the future, the prosperity of the Spartan people could be found in these young cadets. That is why she took the time to train them.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2149

Morgan reflected that getting away is good for the soul, and in this case he had to get far away. Yes, his soul would need lots of good karma to wash away the tongue-lashing he had given his bumpkin scientists.

Eight years he had waited, eight! And what to they present – some gibberish like ‘Ethical Calculus’. Rubbish! He knew he could be a terror when he wanted to be, and he had given it to them and more. Terror was a practiced thing, a tool to sway the weak willed or, sometimes, those who through no fault of their own have less ability to resist. Regardless, the function is the same; the stronger prevails.

It didn’t give him any solace, however. It would likely be a five to ten years before another breakthrough was truly possible. This time, he had instructed his cowed scientists, they are to be sure to emphasize Building and Exploration, the cornerstones of economic breakthroughs.

Maybe one day democracy, as fashioned by Ethical Calculus, would be appropriate. But not now since it was neither needed nor useful. Economics, however, are an entirely different story.

[Hydro]

Sparta, MY 2150

Assistant Director Andrea Smith kept reading the report over and over again and it was hard not to believe the smile on her face was getting larger each time.

“What an amazing thing, simply amazing!” She stood and walked around her desk and hugged the junior aide who had given her the flash report from terra-former #2. The terra-former crew reported that the sector just northwest of the one they had just finished planting with tree saplings had show signs of tree growth. When they investigated the sensor readings they not only found them it to be correct but actually understated. In the time it took for the crew to build the sensor array and move eastward the forest had expanded. Smith left her office and almost ran down the hall and up the stairs to the Director Boothe’s office. When she arrived she did not even wait for Boothe’s aide to announce her, she just went right on in.

“Smith, what are doing?” Boothe barked as her door was flung open.

“You have to read this!” She almost ran to the Booth’s desk and flung the report at her. It took only a few seconds to read and Boothe was now smiling as wide as Smith.

“This is wonderful news! I will issue orders today to have Ironholm take control of that sector to boost their energy and mineral production. We can only hope the forest near Bunker 118 will also expand quickly to eat away at huge fungus field. If the forests would only expand this fast then we could transfer one or even two terra-formers to the west.” Boothe had stood up and walked around her desk to congratulate Smith. She reached out and hugged her and Smith responded. They both were happy for the simple reason that they knew that as the importance of their work grew and helped to feed and defend Sparta their role as advisors and leaders amongst the command council would grow as well. Boothe released her hug and noticed that Smith held hers for a few more minutes longer. She looked a Smith who seemed very happy and yet strange.

“Perhaps we should continue our celebration later tonight?” Boothe asked and Smith only continued to smile.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2150

“This is truly an auspicious day,” Morgan stated. “We have finally surpassed the University in population with our recent growth spurt at Morgan Distribution, Morgan Studios, and Morgan Industries. 14,000 people! That is quite an achievement.”

Director Shirer nodded. “Yes, it is. You will note that our research ability increased markedly, although not as much as hoped. Has our research liaison commented on this?”

Rothchild spoke up. “Yes. He said that most of the extra energy went to the treasury, and a little was unaccounted for – waste he called it. I tracked this down and he is correct. It seems there is an inherent inefficiency where a little is lost here and there, resulting in a cumulative loss of a megacredit or two. Even so we cut a few years off our research schedule.”

“And that will first increase when Robotics and Interstellar grow to 2000 soon,” Morgan said.

“That is only temporary,” Rothchild commented. “Studios, Distribution, and Robotics all have colony pods in production, which will be active long before they reach 3000 people.”

“No matter,” Morgan said. “The new bases will more than make up for it. And, but that time they will likely have sufficient stores to almost immediately grow back to 2000. It is as near of a sure bet as I have ever made.”

“Will they be established in time for our next breakthrough? We are expecting a new economic paradigm, aren’t we?” Shirer asked.

“We’d better,” Morgan said.


*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2151

Commandant Chang Wa-Lee walked along the perimeter of Defiance Freehold making sure everything was in order. Chang was pleased at how quickly they got the base up and running considering how few supplies they had. The HAULER was a big ship but it simply could not carry everything. For one, they could not bring the equipment and parts to equip the garrison with laser weapons they had only enough room for the assault rifles as it stood. Command had felt that terra-forming parts were more important since they would not have access the terra-formers on Sparta. Chang had been walking for some time and he was getting tired. He was the oldest member of the colony, a UNITY crewmember. All of his charges had been born on Chiron. His people looked up to him, they relied on him to make the right choices. At least he had Captain Morning to help him to protect and expand Spartan holdings on Thrace. Thrace, the name for the new continent that they had found. He had named it honor of the Thracian warriors who had been allies to Sparta. Santiago had liked the name as well.

“Commandant!” A soldier had run over up to him from behind. “Commandant, there is a communication for you at the command bunker from Captain Morning.” The Soldier assumed the position of attention and waited.

“Inform command that I am returning.” Chang began to walk back but the soldier ran.

Chang reached the air lock for the command bunker and let it cycle through the venting process and then stepped into the security annex where he checked in with the master at arms and took off his environment suit. A young lieutenant walked up to him with a piece of paper.

“Commandant, here is the radio traffic from Captain Morning.” Chang took it and began to read it. Morning had reached the southern pole area and was planning to move eastward to complete his survey of the eastern shores of Thrace. The southern pole area was not as fertile as the northern areas. No sea corridor could be found along the pole area so there would be no “southwest” passage route as hoped by command. Morning had found another excellent colony site along the coastline that had access to a rich nutrient sector and a river, which he had named the Tigress River. Most of the remaining information was housekeeping traffic, fuel levels, and supply requirements. Morning and his rovers would need a major overhaul when they got back. Chang handed the note back to the lieutenant.

“Forward this to Sparta Command at once so they can update their maps and situation reports.” Chang looked around the cramped bunker and was pleased at the hard work these young men and women were doing. They were all along way from home now and they had only each other to rely on now. Chang knew that he would make Defiance Freehold one of the most important and crucial cities in the Spartan nation with the help of these people.

[Hydro]

Morgan Industries, MY 2151

“Ladies and gentlemen, we have a pretty clear business case,” Shirer said. “The allocation of 22 megacredits from our treasury will allow us to finish the recycling tanks at Morgan Collections by four years. While this may not seem like much keep in mind that those minerals would be spent on the tanks can now go toward other things, and that the tanks themselves will yield energy, minerals, and food for our populous.”

Morgan steepled his fingers and asked, “How long will it take that surplus to be replaced.”

“A mere two years,” he replied. “Our energy surplus has grown considerably since our last growth spurt.”

The Board was waiting on Morgan, and he let them wait for a moment.

“I agree with Director Shirer,” he said. “It is prudent, if for no other reason than it moves production along. Either Collections or Antimatter can start on a larger infrastructure improvement or a Project once their recreation commons are complete. Any discussion?”

The CEO looked around the room. There was no discussion. None was really needed since similar issues had been hashed out previously.

“Very well,” he said. “Did you get that Mr. Rothchild?”

He nodded. “Yes, sir.”

“Then our meeting is adjourned.”

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2152

Santiago walked into the morning briefing as everyone jumped to his or her feet as Mannsfield yelled, “ATTENTION!”

“At EASE! Take your seats.” Santiago replied as she walked over to her customary chair in the front row and sat down. Her aide, Captain Longstreet, was a few feet behind her moved quickly past her and sat down next to her on her left side.

“Good morning Colonel.” Mannsfield commented and Santiago nodded back in acknowledgment. “Well, as I was saying the program developed by Major Hazra and myself is coming along well. We have production and training schedules set-up at each of our cities to begin building a second garrison company. All of the new infantry companies will be heavy infantry equipped with laser rifles and laser cannons. In fact, Bunker 118 has just completed its second garrison company this turn. This should also help ease the strain on the current garrison unit and help provide better coverage while patrolling the city. Major Hazra has developed, what I feel, is a very good training course for all of our garrison units that will cover policing procedures. Not all of the people that live in our cities are citizens, many of them our civilians that even though they have had some military training for the most part they are still civilians. As such they lack the discipline and integrity our troops and veterans so keeping the “peace” in our cities is important. In time, we can build facilities to provide controlled recreational outlets for our people that will help to manage the boredom and stress. But until then we have to rely on the army to do so. Next turn Sparta Command will have over three thousand people living within our walls. Luckily, the alien robot we have under our control is a constant reminder to anyone or any group that would get out of line that the army is willing and able to move and restore order. Now, Director Boothe would like to update everyone on the status of terra-forming operations.” Mannsfield walked away from the podium and Boothe quickly walked up and grabbed the projector control.

“Good, now if you can please turn to tab four and follow along.” Boothe waited for everyone to get to the page. “Now, as you can see we have made a great deal of progress in our terra-forming operations. Asst. Director Smith should be commended for her tireless work. As you can see we now have four forest sectors in production. We have completed three sensor arrays that have been placed in three of the four forest sectors. The sensor array control centers are heavily camouflaged in those forest sectors. We have cleared three sectors of fungus and we are working on one more that when cleared should expose a rich nutrient sector for production. In consultations with Asst. Director Smith we have decided to build a farm and solar collection facility on that sector. Terra-formers from Ironholm will assist the crew already there from Hero’s waypoint. We have one sector fully developed just north of Hero’s Waypoint that has a farm and solar collection generator. The solar collection system is not very efficient but it does generate one terra-watt of power per turn. There are now roads linking Ironholm to Hero’s Waypoint. We are also working on a farm sector and solar collection sector just north of Sparta Command. Along with that they will complete a road system that will eventually link Sparta Command to Bunker 118. The terra-former crew from Bunker 118 is now clearing a road through the forest sector to the west. In all, I can state our terra-forming operations are progressing very quickly and once we can team up our terra-formers on the eastern and western halves of Sparta then the work will go even faster. Thank you, and is there any questions?” Boothe looked around and didn’t see any and was about to step down but Santiago cleared her throat and quickly asked, “What is the status of research?”

“Colonel, due to the energy from the boreholes we have maintained a good research capacity and we seem to be maintaining averaging a breakthrough every 10 to 11 turns. Also, we have several lines of research in development now. The most promising is research into a new form of metal, a synthetic metal that will be far stronger than any metal we can now produce. It could be used to build stronger buildings but Major Stewart’s group who are spearheading the work wishes to apply it toward military applications. They have designs for infantry body armor and armor for rovers. Major Stewart’s team is working with my team and our civilian contractors on this project that could lead to further advances in industrial operations. Currently our civilian contractors are helping us with our research at no expense to us so long as they can also share in the non-military applications of the technology.” Boothe waited for Santiago to say something, anything.

“Why has researched continued to lag in weapon design?” Santiago asked with a strong emphasis on lag.

Major Stewart quickly got up and walked up to the front alongside Boothe.

“Colonel, it has not been from lack of efforts I assure you. The bottom line is that our efforts to develop more advanced weapon systems is and has been hindered by our ignorance in other fields of science and technology. We simply lack the industrial research facilities to make further advances possible. That is why the work being done by all three research teams is so crucial to our weapon research. Once we have these new industrial facilities up and running along with their labs we should make quick progress towards new weapons and new armor designs. We really lucked out in developing laser weapons since we had so many of the answers in front or should I say since we had the alien robot. It helped us greatly in our efforts it answered a lot of questions before we had to ask them since we had a working model in front of us.” Both Booth and Stewart waited for Santiago to ask another question but she only turned to her aide Longstreet and talked with him. Mannsfield quickly walked back to the podium and motioned for them to set down.

“Well, now, lets keep going so we can stay on schedule. If you will turn to tab five I will….”

Santiago shut out Mannsfield from her thoughts, as she looked at the projections in the briefing book. In less than five turns they should complete the first advanced factories and labs and then if all went well they could start working on new weapons. Well, if she had waited this long another decade or two would not hurt, she hoped…

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2252

“Sir,” Rothchild said. “I have what may be disturbing news.”

This statement got Morgan’s undivided attention.

“It appears that our scientists’ research may go in one of two ways. One would be a breakthrough in an economic paradigm, which is what you have told them is preferable. An equally likely advance would unlock the biologic potential of our farms, allowing increased food collection. At this point it is not at all clear which is likely, and the scientists will not commit.”

Morgan frowned. But, he wasn’t irritated, yet at least. There was something to be said for more food and growth. But, economic were the key.

“Find some way to give them an incentive,” Morgan said. “And let them know I will be somewhat displeased if they do not give appropriate attention to economic issues. I do not understand how both could be equally likely – biologic potential and economics have nothing to do with each other!”

“Actually,” Rothchild said, “it is more that both are making progress and although they are focusing on economics, more progress is being made in biologic potential. If you ask them the scientists will tell you that science can’t be accurately planned, and only somewhat predicted and that there is a high degree of variability.”

“I understand that,” Morgan stated as he pushed back his chair. “It does not mean I have to like it, nor does it mean I will idly sit back and accept this…predicament. I am not a passive person.”

“Yes, sir,” Rothchild said. He noticed Morgan had grown quiet – his ‘musing’ time he called it. Rothchild took this opportunity to quietly slip out since he had other duties to attend to, like berating scientists, which was like hitting a dog with a newspaper: they don’t understand, but feel bad anyway.

*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2153

Captain Marshal Jorgenson and his executive officer, Sirius Carsten, watched the crew operate the deck crane as they hauled in the UNITY pod from the sea. The pod was much, much smaller than the other pods Spartan troops had found on land decades ago. The crew maneuvered the pod over the deck and slowly lowered it down. Once on deck the chief bosuns mate ordered the crew to clear away the netting and sea fungus.

“Its much smaller than I expected.” Carsten remarked as he followed his captain down the ladder to the deck.

“Sirius I am surprised at you. This is a communication and emergency beacon pod from one of the UNITY landing pods. During re-entry six emergency beacon pods would detach and scatter over a wide area from each of the colony pods. What we have here is one of those pods and from the markings it looks like it came from the white colony pod. If you remember we landed in the black pod so this beacon pod would have the communication frequency for the white UNITY landing pod.” Jorgenson grabbed Carsten by the elbow and pulled him over to the railing. “Okay, first, order the crew to lower this into the hold and place a guard on it, 24 hours. Second, I will need the chief radio operator, Robinson, to meet me down there in an hour. He and I will pop it open and pull the frequency information to send back to command. Number one, this is a prize beyond measure!”

Jorgenson walked back to the ladder and began climbing up to the bridge. Carsten turned around and began looking for the chief of the boat to get the pod moved down into the hold.



Mannsfield walked quickly down the hallway to the command council meeting room where in minutes Santiago would be talking with Professor Zakharov. When Mannsfield opened the channel several days ago he startled a very young radio operator from the white UNITY pod survivors who then immediately contacted his superior. Mannsfield spent several hours talking with an aide to Professor Zakharov who was the leader of the white UNITY pod and the chief scientist aboard the UNITY. It turned out that during the chaos on that fateful day Zakharov had managed to gather most of the top scientists and technicians into his pod and now they had formed a scientific community or as they called it, the University. Mannsfield had worked with Zakharov’s assistant to prepare some background information for both leaders to help them during this first meeting. In some ways Santiago had been pleased at the news they had found other survivors and in other ways she had become even more tense and moody about the prospect of neighbors or more correctly future enemies. Mannsfield reached the command council room just as the main screen began to light up and the face of Zakharov filled it.

“Greetings Corazon Santiago, I was very glad to hear that more survivors had made it through the catastrophe.” Zakharov smiled and leaned his head slightly to the right.

Santiago immediately looked at Mannsfield, nothing in his report had indicated the prospect of “other” survivors, and his expression said it all. An obvious trick to gain the upper hand in the negotiations today by forgetting to inform the Spartans of such important news.

“Yes.” She responded. The simple answer seemed to annoy Zakharov.

“Yes, well, there are several other colony pod leaders that managed to survive. I have communication frequencies for both Director Morgan and Aki Zeta of the Cyborgs and for a small sum of 20 energy credits each I will give them to you.” Zakharov resumed the same silly smile.

“No.” She replied.

Zakharov’s face seemed troubled once again by the tense and simple response.

“I have reviewed the preliminary data that was sent to us and I wish to offer the following exchange of data. For your files on terra forming I will trade you our files on informational networks. Also, in exchange for your map files I will trade to you our files on polymorphic software.” He waited for a response.

Santiago had seen the list as well and had asked her staff for recommendations. This had been the exact list they had wanted as well. Two technologies for one and a map file an exchange that greatly favored the Spartans.

“Agreed.” She replied.

Zakharov smile got even larger then as if waiting for her to add something to her simple response continued to smile. After a few minutes of silence his smile began to droop.

“I wish to offer a treaty of friendship between our two nations it will help to insure continued peace amongst the lea..” Santiago cut him off.

“No, Zakharov, no treaty. I will send our files to you at the appointed time agreed upon by our aides. Sparta OUT!” She looked over at Mannsfield to cut the connection and the screen went black.

“I want a report on my desk as soon as possible that gives me a clear picture of these other factions. I will not sign a treaty with any leader until I have a clear picture of the other players. Is that understood? Boothe and Stewart! I want a report from you two on the impact the new technology will have. I saw a brief note in Mannsfield’s briefing book about the possibility of using that software program Zakharov is trading us to build long-range artillery units. I want a detailed report on that and consider it priority number one. If our possible enemies have technology that gives them a military edge over us I want that edge as well. Lastly, I want the best report possible on who these other leaders are, Morgan and Aki Zeta and I want to know what the hell is a “cyborg”, now MOVE PEOPLE I WANT ANSWERS!” Santiago stood up and marched out of the room. Mannsfield didn’t even have time to call the room to attention.

“Okay, you heard the Colonel. I will assign the work in the next hour. Those of you who were named specifically to provide a report I want to see a draft in 24 hours, is that clear!” The room quickly emptied leaving Mannsfield all alone. Now, the real work begins he thought.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2153

“And exactly why are our people harvesting resources from less than optimal territory?” Morgan asked.

The managers of Interstellar, Distribution, and Robotics looked at each other. Finally Director Schwartz ventured an answer, “We don’t know. Clear orders were given, and then it appeared they were being followed. But when task managers checked they were harvesting resources from, as you put it, less than optimal territory.”

“Yes. Less than optimal,” Morgan said. He pulled out a flimsy. “Interstellar was harvesting from an undeveloped moist area instead of the nutrient lode.” He paused. “Distribution was harvesting a single nutrient from fungus,” Morgan said. He almost spat out the last word. “Instead of a forest. The situation at Robotics was not quite so unfortunate since that team was harvesting from a rainy square instead of the forest as they had been ordered.”

Morgan put down his flimsy and looked at the assembled managers. “I believe in accountability, ladies and gentleman. Having reviewed these files I find you all culpable in gross incompetence. Mr. Schwartz, Ms. Laine, you are fired. Each of you will be fined in accordance with the established ordinances, and your cases will be brought before a magistrate to determine if they warrant criminal prosecution. Ms. Wathworth, you will receive an official censure, but since it was not gross misconduct you will be given a chance to redeem yourself. You will have your chance to defend yourself as your hearings are held.”

Morgan paused again. “I am very disappointed in all of you. This audience is complete.”

[Hydro]

Sparta, MY 2154

Commandant Chang watched the boiling mass of worm “stuff” surge towards the outer perimeter of Defiance Freehold. The observation post to the north had detected the approach of the mass and had retreated back to base to report. The mass seemed to sense their movement and followed them back through the sector that was strewn with rocks and boulders. The mass was definitely “slowed” by having to move through the rugged terrain unlike the scouts. That was several days ago and now the worm mass had arrived.

“OPEN FIRE!” Chang yelled over the microphone and in a second every assault rifle opened fire. The concentrated firepower tore into the worm mass and began to shred large chunks away like a hot knife through butter. However, the creature would not go down without a fight. It sent searing waves of psionic energy at the defenders forcing many to fall to the ground, blood flowing from their ears and eyes. The battle seemed to last forever but only a few minutes past and the worm mass was torn to shreds.

Chang checked in with his aide and the garrison captain to get their reports. The garrison had suffered nearly 40% casualties due to the mind attack, many of the injured would recover but it would take time. Chang’s aide had immediately organized the recovery of the energy pearls that were left within the remains. Now, Chang thought the most important battle, the report!


Lt. Commander Marshal Jorgenson watched the recovery of yet another small pod from the sea. He knew instantly that it was not another communications pod but rather an informational storage unit. The mission commanders fearing that the landing pods might become damaged during re-entry had decided that a backup system was needed to insure that valuable data would not be lost. Jorgenson quickly slid down the ladder to the main deck and watched the crew clear away the netting. He knelled down and quickly opened the hatch to examine the contents. Data crystals! Jorgenson quickly reviewed the contents inside and found a vast array of data crystals. Each was marked with small laser etched codes indicating what material was inside. Jorgenson quickly reviewed the chart he had been sent by command and found no matches.

“What the hell!” Jorgenson blurted out. He quickly looked up at the crew who were watching him. “Inform the XO to come down here right away.”

Jorgenson picked up several more crystals and looked at the codes, no match again. He flipped the code sheet back over and immediately something struck his eye. The same design or “code” on the crystals was the same emblem that was found on the cover of the manual book near the bottom. It read Property of Nwabudike Morgan Enterprises. What in the hell! He knew Morgan was one of the businessmen who had helped build the UNITY but why in the world would these crystals not be logged on the inventory sheet and why would they have the corporate symbol of Morgan Enterprises.

“Sir, you asked for me?” Jorgenson looked up at the sound of his XO’s voice.

“Take these crystals back to the radio shack and have the data downloaded ASAP. Send it back to command via the encrypted channel.”




Director Boothe had quickly arrived at the command bunker as ordered by Colonel Santiago. She found that nearly the entire command staff was there and they quickly gestured for her to come over.

“Boothe, look at this information that was sent by HAULER. It seems to be some sort of technical files that they found at sea in a data pod. What can you make of them?” Santiago asked.

Boothe quickly began to review the information and within a minute she knew what it was. Industrial plans for building advanced factories, chemical formulas, production blueprints for advanced factory machines.

“Colonel, where did you get this!” Boothe turned and almost grabbed at Santiago. “Colonel this is what we have been working on for nearly 6 turns. These are plans for setting up factories, industrial automation and chemical formulae for creating new synthetic products. Where did you say these came from because I know these were never part of the data files on UNITY.”

“Director, as I said, they were found in a data pod at sea. We decoded the crystal identification markers on the crystals and found that they were the back up files for a businessman named Nwabudike Morgan. Why they were on UNITY I have no idea. So, exactly how valuable are these?” Santiago asked watching Boothe’s smile get wider and wider.

“Colonel, with this information I can build armor for our troops, ships and rovers!”

Santiago at last began to smile…

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2254

CEO Morgan was in a foul mood. He held in his hand another report of a setback, a significant setback. One of the formers had been destroyed in the southern lands by a rogue mindworm.

No. Morgan corrected himself. They were ALL rogue mindworms! This was the second terraformer that the native infestations had destroyed. Each was a huge investment in their meager industrial output and energy.

Morgan crumpled the flimsy. He had personally allocated 25 megacredits to construct this former! Now he would have to either delay the construction of a colony pod or do without their seventh terraformer. Neither was a desirable proposition. But, they did have six other terraformers, and that counted for something. Two more were near Distribution, and these were now go west to prepare more lands or continue preparing land by developed bases.

But, there was another problem: the rogue worm! It would undoubtedly consume the terraformer’s work, rendering it useless. Then it would go on its ravenous way to Distribution.

That was unacceptable, and Morgan called up some files to see if another scout could be fashioned without too much inefficiency.

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2155

Captain Morning slowly crawled across the ground towards the command rover trying to reach the emergency radio beacon before he died, his last act as commander of the 2nd scout/rovers. During the night a giant spore launcher creature had attacked them and Morning had ordered a counter-attack, a foolish mistake, one that cost him his life and command. His unit was tired and their equipment in terrible condition due to the long period of time since they last got supplies. It had cost them.

The counter-attack went badly, the spore launcher quickly disabled their already malfunctioning vehicles and one the men were reduced to foot speed it was all over. Morning looked up and saw the creature was sending out another wave of spores, this time he would die. He used his last remaining strength to reach the command rover and reached in and hit the emergency marker beacon. He had been told be command that if he hit this beacon they would assume the worst case scenario that they had been attacked and that their last act would be to initiate the beacon, and they were correct. The spores began to land all around morning and on him. The pain was too much to bear and he began to black out. Too much pain.


Santiago waited patiently in the command center for any word but the radio operators only heard static. The continued their efforts in vain, knowing that there was nobody out there to return their hails.

“Keep trying for 24 hours and if they do not report in, list them as missing in action.” Santiago stood up and slowly walked to the doors. This had been the first defeat suffered by Sparta and she vowed it would be the last time any Spartan soldier, citizen or civilian would die by these creatures. They would be hunted down; their fungus fields burned and she would rid them from the planet, once and for all.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Distribution, MY 2155

Faroqu activated his radio. “Distribution, this is scout 2. I just registered an explosion near where Distribution’s terraformer used to be. Activating high-res now.”

His field of view shot forward, making the fungal fields in the foreground blur and then disappear. The view was fuzzy for a split second before the image enhancers took hold. Gradually the image cleared and was filled with icons: mindworm at the edge of the fungal field with certainty 97 percent; unknown hostile in the un-resolved and unexplored fungus to the south.

“Mindworm still present. Enhancements indicate it is still slightly damaged. The road is gone, however. It is likely that a spoor launcher took it out, although it is not in view. No indication where it might be. Per CEO Morgan’s directive I’m shunting this report and visuals to Morgan Industries for analysis. Will continue to observe per the Directory’s requirement.”

Morgan closed the data file. This was distressing. Not only was there one mindworm to trouble them, but now a spoor launcher wrecking their hard-won terraforming advancements. And that was the site for Distribution’s next colony pod, which was due to be completed in two years!

This was vexing, but could not be ignored. Interstellar was on notice that its colony pod might be switched to a scout, and that order was likely soon.

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2156

Santiago looked around the room at the senior command staff as they waited for the communication line to be established between themselves and the University. Santiago had ordered all of the senior command staff to be present since Zakharov would not tell them why he wanted to talk with her. Mannsfield had tried several times to get the details of the meeting from Zakharov’s aide but he was under orders not to reveal them.

Suddenly the black screen began to light up and the symbol of the University popped up and below it read, “stand-by”.

Santiago was becoming slightly irritated by having to wait and but she kept her anger under control and waited. Then the screen switched and Professor Zakharov was now on the screen. In the background several of his aides and senior staff were there.

“Good morning Colonel and greetings to lieutenant Colonel Mannsfield and your staff.” Zakharov announced. He was extremely pleased with himself this morning by the tone of his voice and the smile on his face.

“Zakharov you have kept me waiting long enough, what do you want?” Santiago barked back at him.

“I wish to give you a gift, as a token of our appreciation and support for your people. I am going to forward the communication frequency for Aki-Zeta of the Cyborgs at NO cost to you, as sign of our good will and friendship.” Zakharov continued to smile all time waiting for a response.

“We accept your offer.” Santiago replied quickly showing no sign of emotion. However, she chuckled to herself that just a few turns ago Zakharov wanted to charge her 20 mega-credits for it and now its free, where was the catch?

“Excellent, now perhaps you might reconsider our offer of a treaty between our people?” Zakharov waited once again, smiling all the while, for a response.

“No, our policy has not changed. We are not entering into any treaties until we have a much firmer understanding of the other factions that have survived. We will certainly remember your generosity when we do decide to make an alliance, Santiago OUT!” Santiago reached over and closed the channel and then looked up and smiled at the other command staff members.

“I am not sure exactly what Zakharov’s plan is but suffice it to say that I think the man is desperate. To give away the cyborgs communication frequency and ask for nothing in return was lunacy, desperation. I what to contact the cyborgs now! I want to find out what is going on.” Santiago looked over at Mannsfield who was already punching in the frequency into the system that was linked to the communications section of the command bunker.

“Mannsfield, once we establish contact if I need to I want to be able to put the cyborgs on hold, in case we need to discuss something, alert the radio center to be prompt.” Mannsfield nodded his head in reply as he continued to talk to the radio center over his headset. After a few minutes he put down the headset.

“The cyborgs should be coming on the line in a few minutes, they already seem to be aware of us, perhaps Zakharov has told them something of us.” Mannsfield replied.

“What, if anything new do we know about the cyborgs and their leader, Aki-Zeta?” Santiago asked looking around the room.

“Colonel, unfortunately we have little else to add to the report I have already sent you about a turn ago. The University has been very reluctant to provide us with any additional information. We know that Aki-Zeta was the lead researcher on Zakharov’s staff in the field of computer science, in particular, artificial intelligence. From what little we know their pod took heavy damage when it landed and she used her research to “replace” the damaged or lost parts that her people suffered whether that was an arm, leg, ear or eye or part of the brain. Aki-Zeta herself suffered severe head trauma and had part of her brain augmented with electronic components to help regain her command of speech and walking. Over the years the cyborgs have worked to expand their holdings to improve the process and devices they use for cybernetic implants. From what we can tell at birth this process is started and carried on up to adulthood when any last changes are made.” Major Pete Gregorivich responded.

“You are not telling me anything new!” Santiago barked again. “In the future when I ask for new information only give me what I ask for, I don’t need a history lesson.”

“Colonel, the cyborg leader is standing by.” Mannsfield reported. Santiago turned to him and nodded and he patched in the video feed. The screen lit up and the face of a very attractive women who had blond hair and blue eyes and attached to the side of her head and on top were several electronic devices.

“Colonel Corazon Santiago I am Aki-Zeta prime functionary of the cyborg colony.” The voice was flat and lacked any emotion.

“Aki-Zeta I was given your communication frequency by Professor Zakharov. He had mentioned before that there were other survivors, namely you. We have enjoyed a beneficial relationship with the University so perhaps we can too. I would be willing to entertain the exchange of technology. I am uploading a list of technologies we have to offer.” Santiago reached down and hit the send button. When Santiago looked up she saw that Aki-Zeta’s eyes were glazed over as if in a trance. For perhaps twenty seconds her eyes were unfocused and then they fluttered and she looked back at the screen.

“Transmission received. We would offer the exchange of our trance-mind protection technology in exchange for your files on advanced polymorphic software. Indicate your status to this offer.” Once again the same lifeless voice spoke.

“What exactly is trance protection Aki-Zeta?” Santiago asked.

“Trance protection will increase your ability by over 50% to defend yourselves against the native life forms on this planet.” Aki-Zeta replied.

Santiago quickly nodded to Mannsfield who hit the pause button.

“I am against, in general, exchanging any military technology but I think we should not pass up this opportunity to gain such a valuable technology. If we would have had this “trance” technology Captain Morning would still be alive. I have vowed to myself that I will see every native form of life cleansed from this planet; Chiron is for the humans, for Sparta. Unless someone has any issues with my thinking speak now.” Santiago looked around the table and no one disagreed. Santiago nodded again to Mannsfield who opened the channel.

“Agreed, we will accept your offer Aki-Zeta. After we review the specifications for the trance technology we will release our files on the advance software.” Santiago replied.

“Affirmative. We now offer a treaty of friendship with the cyborgs colony, do you accept?” Aki-Zeta responded.

“No, as I have told Zakharov we will not entertain any alliance with any faction until we have made contact with all of the remaining survivors. We agree to a truce, nothing more.” Santiago very forcible replied.

“Regrettable decision, flawed in your facts. Alliance with the Cyborg colony would be of benefit to all. Short sighted approach to long term issue.” Aki-Zeta replied with the barest hint of annoyance in her voice, the first emotion she had shown.

“Its our decision, Santiago out.” Santiago nodded to Mansfield to close the channel. “I want a report on my desk within 24 hours. I want more information on the Cyborgs now. I want to find out everything we can. Begin by getting access to their open communication channels.” Santiago stood up and everyone quickly jumped to attention as she walked out of the room.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2156

Morgan reviewed the first good news he had gotten in a while: the completion of solar panels near Morgan Robotics. He scanned the stat sheet and it was impressive – they’d increased scientific output by 11 percent, and energy reserves by 8 percent. Most satisfying! If reports were correct there was even likely to be a breakthrough next year.

More worrisome was news that the worm had started advancing toward Distribution. It was clear the colony pod, which was due to be completed at Distribution next year, would severely deplete their resources. Moreover, Interstellar wasn’t ready to add their resources to the fray by allocation them to another scout.

It was enough to give him a splitting headache. Morgan rubbed the bridge of his nose in a feeble effort to relieve the tension but, as usual, it didn’t work.

Morgan hoped, even prayed, that the worm presented itself for execution. That wasn’t likely, but there was always hope.

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2157

Santiago watched as the first test on the trance protection modules were started. The garrison unit from Sparta Command had found a neophyte mind worm in the fungus fields to the south. It was strong enough to kill but it could stun very easily. The specially designed room for the worm was dimly light but Santiago could see the worm moving. On the other side of the movable wall stood a young soldier wearing a slightly larger helmet than was standard.

“Raise the wall!” Stewart yelled in the microphone and the large wall began to rise. As soon as the worm “saw” the human it moved within a few feet and it began to pulse. Everyone in the room far above began to hold their head to help “cushion” the psychic blow from the worm except the soldier standing next to the worm. He continued to take a defensive stance but never once did he flinch.

“EXCELLENT, end the test” Stewart yelled. As soon as the soldier heard the order he reached down and picked up a laser rifle and began to fire continuous bursts into the creature cutting it up like a hot knife through butter. Within seconds the worm was no more.

“Major Stewart order all current military production of infantry garrison units to include trance protection modules and that includes our newest ship, is that understood?” Santiago asked.

“Perfectly Colonel.” He replied.

Santiago climbed down the long ladder into the testing room as she watched the testing crew enter and help the young soldier take off his equipment. The small worm lay at her feet and she kicked it once and it only “oozed” some more goo. Now, let us see planet attach us now, when we area on equal terms. She let her mind go for a few minutes imagining and entire planet free from the fungus and the threat of the worms. She held on to that thought for some time since it was much better than remembering the loss of Captain Morning.

[Hydro]

Morgan Industries, MY 2157

CEO Morgan was in his best blue suit, which he had tastefully accessorized with an apricot undervest and starched white edge-down shirt. He even had his favorite diamond cuff links, which were one of the few truly valuable items of apparel he had saved during the chaotic Unity descent. Even his perfectly matching navy shoes, which were buffed to a high shine, were exuberant.

It was not Morgan’s attire that made him shine, however – it was his countenance. He stood posing with other dignitaries holding a gold plated ceremonial scissors that he held up for all to see. With the other hand he motioned to the crowd to cease cheering since he had something to say.

After a few moments a hush spread and then all eyes were on the Good CEO. “My friends,” he started, “I have rarely had the great fortune to address all of you and to officiate such a grand event. And, make no mistake this is a grand event. For many years, decades certainly, we have pooled our resources to our grand Project – the Weather Paradigm. Now all of our hard work and planning have paid off. The Weather Paradigm is complete!”

A spontaneous cheer broke out and Morgan smiled. He could hardly blame them.

“This will be a boon to us all,” he continued during the lull, “even as our satellite network and probes start their work it is clear that our terraforming will be massively accelerated, allowing our valiant terraforming teams to complete in four years what it once took six. This will make our lands all the more productive, to the benefit of us all. We will even have the ability to undertake great feats of works not even dreamed on Earth such as the whole-scale raising of lands, or even the creation of rivers – such is the power of our achievement!”

Now Morgan branded the golden, oversized scissors. He lowered them to the red ribbon the stretched in front of him. Using one hand on each end of the handle he opened the scissors wide and place the open blades over the ribbon. Then he motioned to the nearby dignitaries to join him and, once they understood they were to take part, they all went over to place their hands on his. A few moments later Morgan took a deep breath, then slowly closed the scissors blades. The thick ribbon was sundered, and it fell to the ground.

Another cheer broke out. An assistant appeared to take the scissors and Morgan and the assembled dignitaries waved to the crowd, and the yells swelled to a crescendo.

Through it all Morgan looked radiant.

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2158

Santiago followed by Mannsfield, Hazra and Santiago’s elite bodyguards walked into the military testing research room and were quickly met by Major Stewart.

“Good morning Colonel, have we got something to show you today!” Stewart stood at attention, saluting. Santiago quickly returned the salute and asked, “So from what I hear you have a new weapon to show us, is that correct?”

Stewart suddenly looked shocked, stunned, “Colonel, how did you know?”

“Well Major, it seems that we have a leak somewhere in your organization. Earlier this morning I was contacted by Aki-Zeta asking for us to “release” our new weapon designs. Of course, Lt. Colonel Mannsfield had know idea of exactly what she was talking about so the conversation ended very quickly. Suffice it to say we will never exchange military technology to anyone for anything. So I ask myself, how did she find out before even I, or Lt. Colonel Mannsfield know that you had finished your work on this weapon?”

“Colonel, I... I... I am not sure how she knows about the impact-particle cannon!” Stewart looked bewildered and stunned.

“Major I intend to have Major Gregorivich to look into the matter and he will also implement a new security system. Major Gregorivich will also appoint a new chief of internal security to make sure this will not happen again. So, the cyborgs know we have a new weapon so perhaps you should show it to me now.” Santiago began moving into the room and towards a group of scientists clustered around a weapons sled and table. As she approached they moved back allowing her a clear view. The “sled” was a slightly modified version of the tracked sled they were using for the laser cannons however it had a larger power unit and a gun shield made out of the new synthetic metal. The particle cannon was slightly larger than the laser version but the design was far more sophisticated and refined.

“Colonel, allow me to demonstrate the improved firepower of the impact cannon.” Stewart jumped up on the sled and powered it up and moved it into position to fire at the target at the other end of the firing range. “The firepower of the impact cannon is roughly 200% more powerful than our current laser cannons. The ratio is the same for the impact rifles over the laser rifles our infantry units are using. As you can see we have already fired several shots down range using an assault machine gun and with a laser cannon. The machine gun had no effect on the reinforced concrete wall that is covered in an inch thick sheet of synth-metal. The laser cannon was able to scorch and burn through the metal and slightly damage the wall underneath but only after numerous concentrated shots over a 20-minute period of time. Now let me show you what this can do. Everyone please stand back!”

Stewart swiveled the cannon into position and activated the laser range finder and locked on to the target. Suddenly the cannon began to pulse with a “bluish” light and then a searing white stream of pulsing energy blasts that lanced out from the cannon and the stream of energy struck the wall and it exploded into tiny fragments. Dust and smoke filled the far end of the firing range for several minutes then it began to clear revealing that the only a small portion of the wall remained. The upper part of the wall had a melted look to it and the surrounding walls were scorched from the heat.

“As you can see Colonel even our best armor offers no protection to this weapon. Our offensive capabilities now far out distance our defensive systems.”

“Thank you Major. I will review the remaining data later. Inform you team that I am impressed with their work and congratulate them for me.” Santiago quickly turned and began to leave the room with her “entourage” trailing behind. As they left the room and walked down the long corridor back to the main complex Santiago motioned for Mannsfield to move next to her.

“How soon do you think we can get these new weapons into production?”

“Colonel, not for some time. I would estimate ten turns at best. We are nearly done with building our entire second garrison units with trance and synth-metal armor upgrades so that all of the “core” Spartan bases will have at least one laser armed unit with armor. We can upgrade the old light infantry units at a later date.” Mannsfield replied.

“What I want to see by the end of the day is a plan to put together a strike force using these new weapons. I want a mobile strike force, no infantry, just rovers. Keep the number to four rover regiments, no more than that, three assault rover regiments that are fully armored and one artillery regiment for support but it doesn’t need to be armored. I want to see plans on how soon we could get a strike force put together. If we do find “other” survivors out there who are not nearly as “advanced” as us I intend to offer them our hand of friendship to join with us in the greater Spartan Federation.” Mannsfield looked over at Santiago. “Colonel, I suspect they will find it hard to find our hand of friendship as it will most likely be holding an impact rifle.”

“That’s the only hand of friendship I intend to offer Mannsfield. We might in time seek “allies” that we can build a greater alliance with but for now we have a decided “edge” in military weaponry and training. I fully intend to use that edge to bring the other survivors under our flag, is that clear?” Santiago asked looking back at Mannsfield.

“I thought that was the plan from the day we landed Colonel.”

“Yes, it has.” Santiago smiled and continuing walking towards the command bunker. The only problem now was creating that reality. Currently Sparta Command was nearing the end of the long research project on the human genome project, perhaps when that was done they could begin building one of the rover regiments. Hero’s Waypoint was building a recreational facility and then they would begin another special project. Ironholm was already supporting two terra-formers and soon to be completed two heavy infantry units and there are plans for another transport to be built as well. Parade Ground, Citadel and Bunker 118 would have to take up the burden of building the remaining units once they complete their colony pods. Within a decade the Spartan nation would have three more colonies operational which would much needed resources. However, the most crucial step would be to find these “other” factions. Bunker 118 would complete next turn the first attack foil armed with lasers and trance protection and that ship would be the key to finding those weaker factions. Yes, Santiago thought, in was just a matter of time now and a little bit of luck.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2158

Just when Morgan thought things were going his way he gets this: more mindworm attacks!

The CEO’s composure cracked and he threw the datapad across the room.

Already the scout defender at Distribution had tried and failed to kill the worm. The best estimates were that it was damaged to 60 percent. That wasn’t so bad – more scouts were in production, and others could be shunted from other bases.

But now a second worm had shown up on the heel of the switch to a Free Market system. Morgan remembered all too well the warnings he had gotten on how a Free Market system would impair their defensive team’s ability to attack and kill native life.

It was all so frustrating! Their economy was humming along even with the setbacks. It would be near thing if Distribution were lost.

Those blasted worms!

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2159

Commandant Reginald Fitz-Wallace III watched as the newest ship in the Spartan fleet slowly slid down the dry dock ramp into the harbor. SFS Warrior was a beautiful ship, sleek, fast and powerful. The attack foil was armed with forward and aft mounted aft laser cannons in armored turrets. The ship had belts of synth-metal up to three inches thick would protect its vital areas. However, the most advanced system it carried was ship wide “trance” protection system to help shield the crew from the mind attacks. Fitz-Wallace turned to the young man standing next to him, Lt. Commander Roger Kent, captain of the WARRIOR.

“You have an amazing ship Kent, simply amazing!”

“Thank you Commandant. WARRIOR is just the first of many ships, our flagship. We will soon be the rulers of the sea.” Kent began to walk down the steps to the harbor; Fitz-Wallace followed right beside him.

“Do you know where your first mission is Kent?” Fitz-Wallace asked.

“Yes Commandant. I have orders from the Chief of Naval Operations, Commander Stepovich, to scout the seas to the south then west to complete our survey. If I encounter any hostile sea creatures I am to destroy them. If I meet any survivors from the UNITY I am to report in and get further orders.” They had reached the bottom of the steps and began walking along the harbor towards the ship.

“I almost wish I could go with you Kent, I truly do. However, for now I am stuck here.” Fitz-Wallace had never fully come to terms with his posting as commandant of Bunker 118. He had always wanted a field command, not a desk job.

“Commandant, I am sure that once we find other survivors out there leaders with experience such as yourself will be first in line for a field command. We will need our top soldiers leading the way.” They had reached the gangplank to WARRIOR and Kent turned and saluted Fitz-Wallace.

“Permission to leave sir!”

“Permission granted!” Fitz-Wallace returned the salute and watched Kent turn and walk up the gangplank and onto to his new ship and all the while wishing he would be the one standing on that deck and not sitting behind a desk.



“Commandant Chang! Commandant Chang! The terra former is about to leave and you asked me to notify you when it did.” Chang’s aide had rushed into his office slightly out of breath.

“Thank you.” Chang slowly stood up and walked around his desk and picked up his environment suit as he walked out the door. It took him a few minutes to suit up and cycle the air lock but it was another 15 minutes to reach the main gate. By the time he had reached it the terra former was already moving eastward. The site selected for the first project was just east of the base where a large energy deposit was located. The plan was to start a tree farm in that sector and build a sensor array as well. Once completed the terra former would move northward to help build farms in the central highlands of Thrace. Chang watched the large machine lumber slowly off into the distance. The next project for the assembly team was the construction of a new “trance” rover team to replace Captain Morning’s lost team. The new scout team would search the northern area of Thrace and hunt down any native life forms to help secure the new bases.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Distribution, MY 2159

Morgan paced up to the assembled squad of soldiers. His pace was deliberate, almost a march. The men and women he was approaching were standing erect, or as standing as erect as they were be able to. Most of them were severely hurt, and one was being held up by two of her comrades. It was clear she was barely conscious.

“Mr. Erin Barthow,” Morgan said as he held out his hand, “please accept my personal gratitude for your sacrifice and those of your squad mates. Also let me try to share your sadness at the loss of some of your brave comrades. They passed in the line of duty, and all the people of Morgan Distribution owe you and them their lives.”

Mr. Barthow took Morgan’s hand and shook it as firmly as he could.

Then the CEO broke from the program. He stepped forward and took a surprised Lieutenant Barthow in a full hug. For a moment the soldier did not know what to do. Should he embrace the CEO back? Just stand there? He decided to go with the moment and he returned the embrace.

Morgan whispered Thank you.

Erin nodded a little.

Morgan pulled back a little. “I would be honored if you would introduce me to you fellows. And I would like you and your people to tell me how you did this, if you feel up to it. You can’t imagine how proud I am of you, and I think we can all learn from your example.”

“Yes, sir,” Erin said. He cleared his throat as he motioned toward the wounded woman to his left. “This is Private Edwards. She led the attack and personally wielded the flamethrower that brought down the first boil. Her second, Private Hsing, did not survive.”

Morgan approached and put his hand on her shoulder. It was all he could do at the moment.

“Privates McDonald and Huddles,” Erin continued, nodding to the two holding up Edwards, “led the second rank that actually killed the second worm.” Morgan shook each outstretched hands in turn.

One by one Morgan worked his way down the line. He did so in all seriousness, and it was the first time he gave any serious thought to the military. This event had proven, more than any other, how vulnerable they were to this blight. Morgan vowed they would not be so vulnerable again.

*~*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2160

Captain Roger Kent watched the coast line sail by marveling at the rugged beauty of the new land. It seemed strange that the great eastern continent was only one sector away all this time. The reports he had sent back had already changed a great many minds at command concerning further exploration and colonization. It was clear that for security purposes alone that the great eastern continent had to be under Spartan control.

“Captain, shall we alter course to head south by east?” The helmsman asked.

Kent glanced to his left at the plot board where the navigational officer had just completed the latest course projection.

“Come to new course helm, steer 120 true, make revolutions for standard cruising speed.” Kent ordered.

“HELM! Make your course 120 true, cruising speed!” The duty officer repeated the officer to insure all bridge crew understood the order.

“CONN! Course is now 120 true, at cruising speed!” The helmsman replied after he punched in the new course and speed corrections.

“Captain, helm is now 120 true at cruising speed.” The duty officer reported to Kent.

“Thank you.” Kent replied and began to look out the window again at the coastline. Sure it would be nice to someday to see that strange new land but there was an entire sea to check out first. Kent watched for several more minutes and then decided he had to finish those reports for the chief of naval operations or face the consequences.

“Duty officer, I am going below now, you have the conn.” Kent stood up and pulled his hat down lower and walked across the bridge and out the hatch. The weather had become much colder as the moved to the polar regions and they would be getting closer to the poles every day.

[Hydro]

Morgan Industries, MY 2160

“Sir,” Senior Aid Rothchild said, “our production took a significant dip with the production of our last two colony pods last year. As you can see the two bases are back to a population of less than 2000 now.”

“Yes, I see that,” Morgan said as he looked through the data. “But, they had unrest problems due to our switch to a free market system. Those populations were only causing trouble, so I see no problem in having them go elsewhere. Perhaps it will give them an incentive to be productive.”

Morgan paused for a moment. “In fact, it seems to me that our new bases are our most productive. Each base produces at least 4 terraquads of energy, more if they have access to improve terrain. Our size factor two bases are no better unless they have a recreation commons, which we have built at only two bases to date.”

“Perhaps we should be completed the Human Genome Project?” Rothchild ventured.

Morgan looked up. “You could be right. We invested for a considerable period of time, and I understand several other factions are racing to complete that Project. I doubt we will get it.”

“There will be other projects,” Rothchild said. “Here is the proposed location for the colony pod from Robotics. It has a sensor, and a farm and forest sector already prepared. Of course, roads have been built to the territory already.”

Morgan nodded. “Very good. The base will be established next year?”

“Yes,” Rothchild said. “It should boost our energy production by 12 percent.”

Morgan nodded again. “And the second pod?”

“That is problematic. The worm attacks destroyed the former that had almost completed the terraforming. All that remains is a single, unconnected road. It will be of no help. However, the site is on a river and a mineral lode. I recommend that it is an excellent base choice. However, it will need a scout escort.”

“Is one available?”

“As it happens, yes. A scout is being completed at Distribution next year. It was our backup in case our attack on the mindworm failed. We will have to exercise caution when entering the fungal field, however. Our free market system makes our people less able to fight off any mindworm attack.”

“Then send two,” Morgan decided. “Get them both into position, then have one try to enter the fungus. Between the pod and two scouts they could get through.”

“Yes, sir,” Rothchild said. “Now, the only item is that our research rates has spiked sharply, and it will spike even more sharply when we establish our ninth and tenth base. We still have room for at east two or three more to the west, but beyond that we will have to go south.”

Morgan nodded as he heard this. It was not new since the general topic had been the focus of conversation at the recent Board meetings. “I am in agreement with Director Wang. We need to start developing our internal bases, and let our new bases worry about colony pods and formers. Priority is to be given to recreation commons and recycling tanks, then other projects. Will Studios or Robotics finish their commons soon?”

“I’m afraid not, sir. It may take a significant allocation of treasury resources to move that along.”

“We have time,” Morgan said. “They do not need the commons yet. But, make sure we keep an eye on it.”

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2161

The WARRIOR had been at general quarters for nearly an hour, the crew and ship were ready for action. The main forward laser cannon turret had been energized as well as the aft turret. The trance protection system was at full power. The ships radar had detected an “unknown” contact nearly 3 hours earlier and a new course had been laid in to intercept. As the ship reached visual range it became very clear the “unknown” contact was not another ship but a sea version of the mind worms found on land. It was far larger than anything they had seen on land and it was very similar to the land worms except it had a more flat, round shape, like a small island. As the ship approached the pulsing in everyone’s head began to get worse.

“XO bring the trance shielding to 110% power NOW! GUNNERY OFFICER OPEN FIRE! I WANT THAT THING OUT OF MY SEA, NOW!” Captain Kent pulled out his mag-glasses and watched as the forward laser cannons explode with twin beams of light that shot out and hit the sea mass dead on. For several minutes the pulsing in everyone’s head got worse and worse. Several crewmembers began to drop to the floor, blood flowing from their ears, nose and eyes.

“RAPID FIRE GUNNERY OFFICER! I WANT 120 % OUTPUT ON THE LASER CANNONS NOW!” Captain Kent roared into the headset.

“ROGER SIR!” The gunnery officer replied.

The forward guns began to fire again and again and they were at last taking a toll on the creature. In a few seconds the creature was listing to port, then to aft and smoke was rising from it. Then a fire broke out somewhere near the port side and more smoke. In a few more minutes the pulsing in everyone’s head began to ease off slowly at first then it dropped to nothing. The creature was in its last moments now. It was barely on the surface now, the fires were out but it was now breaking apart and the forward observers now were reporting that large nodules were floating on the surface, similar to the “planet pearls” found in the remains of the land creatures.

“Order the gigs lowered away number one and begin retrieval of the nodules. I have to contact command and inform them of our victory. Bring me a damage report as quickly as possible.” Captain Kent slowly stood up and realized that blood had been trickling down his nose as well. He stumbled a bit and grabbed the handrail as he made his way back into the chart room to prepare his report.

“Should I have the medics come sir?” Kent’s XO had moved quickly to him after seeing the blood as well.

“No, have them check the men first, then me.” Kent brushed the helping hand of his XO away and went into the chart room. He did not have time to fight this battle with his captain now, he had a ship to check out and crew to make sure they were all right. It was a victory and good one but if the bridge crew was any indication of the losses the ship took they were looking at about 25% casualties. That meant returning to port.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Mines, MY2161

The dedication ceremony for the ninth Morganite base Morgan Mines was over. All the dignitaries had made a brief speech, including the rather long-winded and repetitive harangue of the new base administrator Niles Svenson. Everyone was polite but, after a full hour of insipid metaphors, they were grateful when Senior Aid Rothchild burst into the room. He was apologetic, but needed Morgan’s attention immediately. Of course, Mr. Swenson didn’t object and waited for the great CEO to leave. He didn’t, forcing a merciful end to his speech.

Of course it was an ‘accident’ that Rothchild had arrived when he did. Morgan reflected that tight beam communications were a wonderful thing and vowed to use this tactic when needed. Luckily most of his administrators were brilliant and has more common sense than Mr. Svenson, but Morgan knew he had to take the good with the bad. And replace Mr. Swenson when someone better made themselves available.

*~*~*~*

Spartan MY 2162

Santiago watched as Commandant Byram Robertson walked into her office and saluted.

“Commandant Byram Robertson reporting as ordered, Colonel!” Santiago saluted the man back, “AT EASE, take a seat Robertson.”

“Thank you Colonel.” Robertson quickly sat down took out his PAD unit to take any notes, if needed.

“Robertson, I will assume your colony pod is ready and loaded to go, is that correct?” Santiago asked.

“Yes Colonel.”

“Excellent, I would be shocked if otherwise. I know command has been somewhat in turmoil this past turn as to where to send you and your people. Well, I have decided that you will go to Thrace, as originally planned. Once there you will be able to establish you colony three sectors away from Defiance Freehold and the two of you will support each other and become the “core” bases on that new continent.” Santiago could see her news was not too welcome from the look Robertson had on his face.

“Commandant, I understand your desire to be the “first” new colony on the great eastern continent but it is more important we build on what we have now. The colony pod that will be completed at Ironholm in five turns will be sent to the new eastern continent along with the one being built at Bunker 118.” Santiago stated firmly so that Robertson would understand that there would be no more discussion.

“Understood Colonel. Do you have any further orders?” Robertson replied stiffly.

“None, the consensus at command, and I agree with them, is that you should concentrate on expanding our holdings there, more colony pods. You should have little problem in that area since the colony site we have chosen for you is rich in nutrients. Commandant Chang will be the ranking officer on Thrace and as such he is strategic control there. Is that understood?” Santiago stood up indicating the meeting was over.

“Understood Colonel. Thank you.” Robertson saluted and held it then Santiago saluted him back. Robertson turned and left the room. Santiago watched him leave and her aide, Longstreet, closed the door behind him. Robertson was the youngest Commandant she had assigned but he was one of the best officers in the Spartan military. Robertson’s promotion also had an additional feature, it allowed a very young Carlos Sanchez to be promoted to the rank of captain and he would be the newest and youngest base garrison captain in the Spartan Military. Mannsfield had almost argued with her when she announced her choice since it contradicted the recommendations by the command staff. She had ended any further discussion quickly and ordered the promotions. Santiago wanted to test these men; in particular, one of them and the best way to test someone was to see if they could break under the burden of command. Now she will see what her son was made of.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY2162

“Thank again for your time Prokhor,” Morgan said. He wore his most winning smile, and he was disappointed with what that bought him.

Zakharov abruptly terminated the communication link.

Morgan couldn’t say he was happy, but then neither was he sad. Zakharov’s attitude had always been turbulent and less than friendly for no reason Morgan could surmise. Was it his proximity? Had he given him some offense in years back? It was impossible to say. At least he had done business, and that was the important thing. The negotiations had been hard won, but now the Morganites had Zak’s files on Doctrine: Flexibility, which gave them the critical infrastructure to build sea units. While that wasn’t on the docket for the immediate future, it would become more than useful soon. Then the first efforts to go out and see the world could be fulfilled.

Another bit of news mollified Morgan somewhat. Rothchild, in his usual efficient fashion, had prepared an executive summary of economic output. This surprised Morgan since he knew he could obsess on optimizing individual cities. What Rothchild had done was to pull together the whole picture and it painted a rosier picture. The energy total output of Morgan Industries was 77 terraquads. Some was lost to waste, but the vast majority went into the Morganite energy reserves and laboratory output, which were spiking nicely.

And that was fairly impressive.

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2163

The lead team of genetic researches at Sparta Command sat across from Director Boothe in her conference room. The purpose of today’s meeting was to decide if they should use the alien “device”, as it was know now as, to complete the genetic research project in a two turns or to continue on as planned and finish it in twelve turns.

“Director Boothe the consensus of the research team here and those still working on the project agree we should try and withhold out use of the device. It was certainly complete the work much faster but then we would loose any further chance of studying it to see what other secrets it might reveal.” The lead scientist reported while handing over a very hefty written report as well.

“I also asked for a dissenting opinion as well.” Boothe asked.

“Director, if I may, I was asked by the chief scientist to provide that. It is my contention that we should unleash the power of the device now or by next turn. By completing the project now we can free up valuable lab and research teams to work on other projects. Also, our population is growing and the benefit that these genetically enhanced specialists will be pronounced. Sparta Command has plans for a state of the art command center and then plans for a sea former. None of these projects can take place until the human genome project is done. Lastly, the possibility that another faction might sneak up and complete it before us is a prospect that none of us want to see. It is the minority opinion that in three turns we should complete the project by using the device. In three turns Hero’s Waypoint will have completed their recreational facility and then they can begin the next project, the merchant exchange or other project that might be more useful.” The researcher finished his report and placed on Boothe’s desk a single page letter recommendation.

Boothe was quiet for a few minutes as her eyes weighed the hefty report against using the device and the single page report for using it. She knew that Santiago would never “read” the massive report expecting her to summarize and make her recommendations. It all came down to a very simple analogy do you go with what you know or throw the dice and gamble on some “future” possible project.

“Thank you gentlemen I will review the reports and let you know.” They group of researchers stood up and left the room leaving Boothe by herself. It was clear what she would do; unleash the device in two to three turns. She knew that Santiago would okay that with little fuss. She pushed the massive report the lead researcher gave her into the recycle basket there was no need to read it now.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Distribution, MY 2163

“So, let me get this straight. None of the base managers are asking for an infusion from the treasury for a city project. And, there are no immediate crises like marauding mindworms destroying formers or threatening bases. Our production is humming along, less the social problems caused by our free market system.” Morgan rattled off these non-events with some relish.

“That is right,” Rothchild said.

“Our colony pod made it through the fungus without incident?” Morgan asked.

“Yes, sir. The scout is advancing ahead of them, and they should be in position in a few years.”

“Very good. It’s too bad the road and sensor were destroyed. That would have cut a year of the transit time. There’s nothing to be done about it, though.”

“There is the issue of deciding the next improvement for Industries, sir,” Rothchild said. We have many choices including another Project, or perhaps a network node. Director Pathly suggested a holographic theatre would increase morale, and he does have a point.”

“We have less than a year to decide?” Morgan aasked.

“Yes.”

“I’ll leave it for the Board to make a recommendation. Let them know, however, that after the construction of the second garrison I am not too interested in more military units. Our other bases can concentrate on that type of investment,” Morgan stated.

“Acknowledged,” Rothchild said as he made a few notes and then shunted them off to the Board of Directors. “Anything else?”

“No,” Morgan said. “That is all for the day. Good night.”

[Hydro]

Sparta, MY 2164

>Office of Planning and Statistics, Sparta Command, 2164<

Chief statistician Miles Silverberg had always enjoyed his job as head of long range planning and statistics until today. When he had arrived at work the newest figures had been downloaded overnight and he was able to use them to complete his computations and what he found scared the hell out of him. After a few minutes of deep breathing to calm himself he methodically began to re-calculate and check his figures. Miles worked through the day and into the night with barely a stop for a quick bite of food and a bathroom break. By morning he had completed his rechecks and calculations and the outcome was the same again. This was not good at all. Silverberg looked all around his tiny office as if trying to find a life preserver or an escape hatch only to realize there was none. Silverberg was a civilian, a non-citizen, one of a growing handful that worked in Director Boothe’s department of planning and production. There was just too much work to be done in planning and production and the military personnel alone could not do it all. Originally he had wanted to work in Major Stewart’s department of military research and procurement but had been denied, as all civilians were, from working there. Only military or citizens, ex-military, could work in military research for security reasons. However, coming to this department had been a challenge and as time had passed he had enjoyed working here until today. He looked down at has paperwork and gathered it all up and then copied his statistical information and formulas onto a disc and then stood up and left his office for Director Boothe’s. He walked slowly going over the data in his head one last time and trying to organize the data so that he could clearly explain it to the Director. Suddenly he realized he was standing in front of the door to the director’s office and he had been standing there for several minutes, slowly he opened the door and walked in.

Director Boothe’s aide looked up Silverberg who had a good days plus facial growth, disheveled clothes and an expression of despair. Silverberg stood there for about a minute not saying a word.

“Can I help you?” The aide asked.

“Yes, I need to see the director.” Silverberg replied in a flat voice.

“Well, she is free now, let me check.” The aide got up and opened the door to the director’s office and closed the door. Silverberg stood motionless waiting. After about five minutes the door to the inner office opened and the aide stepped out followed by Director Boothe.

“Technician Silverberg, what can I do for you?” Boothe asked.

“Director, I need to talk with you and show you some data.” Silverberg quickly added, “Privately.” As he glanced over at the receptionist.

Boothe looked at Silverberg and then down at her aide then back at Silverberg. “Well, come in. Tasha hold me calls unless it’s from someone on the command council.” Boothe waved her hand for Silverberg to enter her office.

Slowly Silverberg entered the room and sat down in front of Director Boothe’s desk. Boothe followed behind then circled behind her own desk and sat down.

“Okay Silverberg, what is so urgent that you needed to speak to me about?” Boothe asked as she reached for a pen.

“Director I have been doing some projections based on the information I have gathered. Some of the information I have obtained comes from the University and Cyborg databases. Primarily my analysis concentrated on growth rates based on our current social and economic models. What I found was very disturbing to say the least. If you will read the synopsis of my report you will understand what I am talking about.” Silverberg reached across the desk and handed Boothe a large binder. Boothe opened the binder and began to read. It took her about ten minutes to complete the synopsis and when she was done she was as white as a ghost.

“Are you sure your facts and caluclations are correct?” Boothe asked somewhat shakily.

“Yes Director they are.” Silverberg replied flatly.

Boothe reached over to communication panel on her desk and hit a button. “Hold all of my calls and cancel any appointments today.” Boothe hit the button a second time and turned back to Silverberg. “Okay, you and I need to go through this page by page and you need to teach me so that when I present this to the command council I know what I am talking about.” Silverberg nodded his head and began opening his books.

“Director if you will turn to tab one we can start there on population growth projections.”


>Office of Lt. Colonel Mannsfield, Sparta Command Center, Sparta Command, 2164<

“Director Boothe, I have reviewed your report for tomorrows morning briefing and frankly I am stunned. You can not possibly expect to have me put this on the agenda!” Mannsfield pushed the thick report back across his desktop towards Boothe.

“Lt. Colonel Mannsfield, I understand your frustration and anger over my proposal but we have no choice. Simply put by the time we acquire these technologies we will be so far behind the other powers that we will be at their mercy. The longer we wait to make these improvements the further behind we will be. It will not matter how powerful our army is if the enemy can out build us, out man us and out fight us!” Boothe hastily replied.

“Boothe I think you go to far. Our soldiers are the best on this planet. To suggest such a thing borders on treason!” Mannsfield barked back.

“If you will just take the time to review the data and calculations I think you will see that you are wrong. Allow me to explain, first; lets look at the technology the Cyborgs have concerning advanced economic planning and informational networks. By current projections will not discover this ourselves for some time, for a long time. This technology would allow us to increase our industrial production and help us to increase our population. Currently our growth projections are flat which over time will put us at a great disadvantage. Another important aspect to this technology is the ability to create special espionage units that can both gather and protect technology and information. What good is our technological lead in military weapons if our enemies can just land these espionage teams and steal it from us without us ever knowing! It is clear to me and the facts support me on this that we need this technology. Also, with the advanced computer systems we can create advanced recreational facilities, holographic theaters to help entertain our population. As our population will grow we will need more outlets to help provide recreational outlets to keep our people happy.” Boothe had flipped open the binder and pointed out to Mannsfield on several pages the specific numbers and information she was talking about.

“Okay, for the sake of this argument I agree that we should make the trade with the Cybrogs but why should we make an exchange with the University for their files on advanced governmental models and child development. I can not see in any way why we should make this exchange.” Mannsfield grumpily replied.

“Lt. Colonel, it seems clear to me, and I am sure you will agree, that Colonel Santiago will never allow a national version of a democratic government.” Boothe watched Mannsfield trying to determine from his expression how he would reply. In truth there was no form of democracy practiced in the Spartan Federation. At the local level there were citizen councils who handled routine decisions but for everything else the military was the supreme authority and Colonel Santiago was the ultimate authority. “However, with the technology we can obtain we can implement a city wide democratic system to manage the civilians and citizens. The data clearly shows that even the civilians in such a system would be more highly motivated and contribute more to the system, to the city. This in turn will bring about increased production and growth rates. This in no way would threaten or weaken the military’s control of national policy. The military would still remain the supreme authority under this system.”

“Director Boothe I have read the report, it took me some time to get through it all but I did read it and I agree with you. However, the issue I have is what will it take to get these two new technologies? I frequently talk with both the University and Cyborgs and I can tell you that the only thing we have that they want is our advanced impact weapon. Colonel Santiago has made it very clear that the Spartan Federation will never exchange our weapon technology to others.” Mannsfield began to rub the side of his head for few seconds. “Colonel Santiago would need to be convinced, to be really convinced that such a trade would benefit us more than them.”

“Lt. Colonel I think I can make that case. Simply put we have no choice, we have to make the trade and here is why. One, by trading with both the Cyborgs and University we get a two for one exchange in technology. That alone saves us nearly 15 turns of research and credits that we can hardly afford now. Two, the direction Colonel Santiago has ordered our research teams to follow will never give us a chance to obtain these technologies anytime soon. In fact, it could another fifty turns before we ever get close to researching them ourselves which would put us considerably behind the other factions again. Third, we are not at war with either of the other factions. We do not even know where they are at on this planet. Based on the data you have collected the University and Cyborgs are equal to us in many areas, perhaps not in military strength, but in many other ways. At this time any military campaign would be ill advised for many reasons such as logistics and transport capacity. We simply could not stage enough military force quickly enough to be effective. With this technology we can obtain we can build up our society so that we can eventually stage such a military action, if needed. Fourth, our pre-eminence in weapon research will give us an edge. Already our scientists and researchers are working on more advanced weapon and armor systems. By the time if we did get into a conflict we would have superior weapon systems. Lastly, any successful military campaign is composed of two components: superior military forces and superior logistics. We have superior military forces but without the superior logistic support we will not able to equip our soldiers with the best weapons and armor, we will not be able to build the largest military force and we will not have the transport capacity to project our force. If you look at the most successful military powers in history, the Romans, Great Britain and the United States each of them had good to excellent military forces but where they excelled in, what gave them the clear advantage was logistics. The Romans had an excellent road system, Great Britain had sea power and the United States had a powerful military industrial complex that allowed them to support and project a massive army worldwide. Since Sparta is an island nation we will need to be the masters of the sea. We will need superior industrial capacity to out build our enemies in times of war.” Booth finished her statement waiting for Mannsfield to reply but he just sat there for some time with his eyes slightly closed then he raised his head and smiled.

“Director Boothe I had no idea that you are such an astute military expert. I cannot agree more with you position. When Colonel Santiago made her statement about not trading military technology she was not aware at that time about the full situation. At one point the University just wanted to “gift” them the impact weapon technology. I think we can convince her of the merits of your position and then have her negotiate a deal with them. The bottom line is if we do make an exchange we want to trade it to everyone at once or as many factions as we can. We want to benefit as much as possible from the technology as possible. I certainly do not want to see the University trade our weapons technology to the Cyborgs and gain more benefit than us. Okay, give me a couple of days to put something together for the Colonel. Keep this information between us for now, there is no reason to include any of this in the morning briefing, agreed?” Mannsfield stood up and reached his hand out to shake Boothe’s hand. “I am glad we have someone like you heading up your department Boothe, all of us military types would have missed this opportunity completely.” Boothe shook Mannsfield’s hand and then picked up her folders and left the room knowing that once again her position in the power structure of the Spartan Federation had climbed once again.

[Hydro]

>Main conference room, Command Center, Sparta Command, 2164<

“So Colonel Santiago I am glad that we can at last come to agreement. We will send you our files on advanced democratic institutions and policies and you, in turn, will send us data on these “impact” weapons. My military advisors inform me that they will be very useful in defending us against the mind worms.” Zakharov was a very happy man today and his face was beaming in pure pleasure.

“Professor Zakharov, lets complete the transaction now. On my count transmit the files as agreed.” Santiago reached over to a control station mounted on the desk. “On the count of three, 1 , 2 , 3, and transmit!” Santiago pushed the button. Both leaders continued to stare at each other and for several minutes then a small beeping could be heard indicating the transmission was complete. Santiago looked down at the display and confirmed that the transmission was done and the data was correct.

“Once again I think this can be the start of a new chapter in our relationship Colonel. The exchange of date can benefit us all.” Zakharov was all smiles.

“I can not agree with you more Professor. The Cyborg leader Aki-Zeta made the same statement just shortly after I traded her the same technology for advanced files on informational networks and holographic projectors. Santiago out!” As Corazon reached over to close the channel she could see the utter dismay and anger flash across the Zakharov’s face. It was obvious now that he wanted to benefit again from the exchange of data with the Cyborgs or at last threaten them with his advanced technology. The fool!
Santiago looked around the room and then zeroed in on Director Boothe.

“Okay Boothe, we have gone with your plan and we now have the two technologies safely stored in our data banks. What do we do with them now?” Santiago wanted a response now; luckily for her she was ready.

“Colonel, I have prepared a plan and Lt. Colonel Mannsfield has reviewed it and his made some comments and changes.” Boothe stood up and then moved about the room quickly distributing the plan to the fellow senior command staff. “As you can see my first recommendation is that we have the research team at Sparta Command immediately review the new technology on holographic systems. The virtual world project has even more promise than the human genome project in helping to control our citizens. Since we are only a few turns away from completing the human genome project we have ample resources to look at this virtual work project and try and complete it before anyone else. Also, with the aid of the alien artifact we have an “edge” over everyone else. The main benefit is that each network node that we build at each city can be connected to a holographic recreation system at no extra cost to build. We essentially get two benefits for the cost of one facility. Now, even if for some reason another faction might beat us we can still implement the humane genome project as a fall back, or another more worthwhile project. Now, I would also recommend that every city once they complete their recycling tank projects build a children’s crèche. Essentially the changes we would have to make to our current child development system would be modest but the rewards far exceed the costs. We will gain a 20% increase in population growth and I fully expect an increase in fighting effectiveness of our troops. Lastly, we are eight turns away from another major military breakthrough. Once we complete that research I propose that we switch to a planned economy. I have laid out a plan to organize the privately held or “citizen owned” enterprises under my department’s control. The list would only include a select number of the major companies in operation now. In essence the government of the Spartan Federation would become the “major” stockholder and as such we would provide overall guidance to the business but the current management would still operate the factory itself. Essentially the Spartan government would control the major means of production but we would also provide protection to the other Spartan industries by means of tariffs and taxes to imported goods. In addition, my department would develop guidelines and regulations for all remaining non-government controlled business in order to make sure they operate in “harmony” with each and the greater Spartan federation. I think that there might be some resistance by some of the major business leaders, the managers, but the citizen stockholders will still have a share in the business still so I suspect they will support our initiative. This move to a planned economic model will help protect and nurture our fledgling economy and we will also be able to maximize our economic power toward improving our military power.”

“Director Boothe, I will review your recommendations today and I will decide as to how to proceed.” Santiago stopped and looked around the room at the other members of the council. “It is clear to me that we need to move more quickly than planned to dominate this planet both militarily and economically. We need to get more colony pods built and deployed as quickly as possible until we reach a point that continued expansion would be counter productive. We need to improve key elements of our infrastructure and to do so evenly throughout all Spartan cities. However, let me make this clear and that is we will never back down from any conflict anywhere. We will always be the masters of our own destiny!” Santiago stood up and everyone else jumped to there feet. “DISMISSED!” Santiago barked and they all began to filter out. Santiago watched each of them leave and but the person she watched the most was Boothe. Boothe over the past several decades had become more and more powerful and her department’s influence had risen as well. The directorship she held was a civilian rank, the highest civilian rank possible under the current system and she was the only civilian to sit on the command council. To many of the civilians amongst the Spartan Federation cities her name spoken with pride and she was revered by them as a symbol of inspiration. Corazon watched her leave the room and then she herself made her way out followed by her aide.

“Inform Captain Somersby that I want to see him in my office at 15:00hrs today.” Santiago ordered as she continued out the door and down the corridor, her bodyguards in tow.

“Yes Colonel. Should I inform Major Gregorivich to attend as well?” Longstreet replied.

“No, Captain Somersby is sufficient what I have to talk with him about does not concern the major.” Santiago hastily replied.

“Yes Colonel.” They continued to walk in silence towards the Colonels office but Longstreet knew that something was up. Ever since Gregorivich had appointed Captain Hannah Somersby to be the new officer in charge of internal military and civilian security Santiago had begun to spend more and more time with her. Usually many of the meetings she had with the other leaders were always recorded for posterity but none of the meetings with Somersby were.

__________________________________________________ ______________________

>Office of Colonel Corazon Santiago, Sparta Command, 2164 <

“Somersby I intend to make sure that you have every resource you need to insure the security at each Spartan city. I intent to build these “children crèches” that Director Boothe has recommended but the very next unit that will be built will be an anti-espionage security team, which will be under your control, at each city. Your department will be know as the Department of Homeland Security and you will be given broad powers to maintain civil order, protect our informational network and prevent subversion from outside agents.”

“I will do my best Colonel. I did have one question. From what Lt. Colonel Mannsfield sent me my “charter” is officially restricted to internal actions and defense only, can you clarify that?” Somersby smoothly replied.

“Somersby, officially that is correct. However, your budget and operations will now fall under my eyes only for review. You will still prepare and forward for approval an “official” budget but in turn you will send me the real one the will account for all of your operations. Also, I fully intend for you to develop, train, equip and deploy special espionage units for use against other factions. From now on you and I will both refer to these units from now on as “ghost recon” units. They will operate solely under your control only and you and you alone will have operational control of them. There is a small island of the northern coast of Sparta, which I intend to turn over to you and your ghost recon units. There you will set up operations and training facilitates for these units. Let me be clear on one thing and that is this, I will give you a target and a goal. I do not need or ever want to know how you achieve complete the mission. The ghost recon program is under my control alone, is that clear?” Santiago pushed across to him an identification card. “This card will clear you through any system or any access point. You can requisition any supplies or material you need with it. It has my access approval pre-coded on it nothing or no one should ever be able to block your requests. If there is a problem concerning the ghost recon team or operations you bring it to me. Otherwise the other aspects of your job and the internal security operations you perform go through regular channels.”
“Understood Colonel.” Somersby replied flatly as he picked up the identification card and pocketed it.

“Good. Lastly, as we build and implement these local or city wide democratic changes I want you to keep a close tab on any instigators or subversive elements. Sparta is a military society and there is only one commander, me. Is that clear?” Santiago stood, a signal the meeting was over.

“Thank you again for the trust you have put in me Colonel, I will not let you down.” Somersby quickly and smartly saluted.

“If you do Somersby you will regret it greatly. Dismissed.”

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2164

Rothchild had been very quiet when he gave it to him, and then he had slinked out of the room. He could be excessively discrete, and they had worked together long enough that he knew what it meant: bad news.

Morgan looked over his datapad one more time. In it were endless technical details on the new technology that had been produced by Morgan Laboratories, Inc, founded MY 2114. It was glossy and the presentation was flawless, that Nwabudike could admire. It even managed to render a seemingly dreary ‘advancement’ and make it seem important.

But, Morgan knew it wasn’t. What possible use could Doctrine: Mobility have to him? The White Paper had given him at least five applications, but none really mattered, at least not now. What really mattered was fine-tuning the economy and, for this purpose, this ‘advancement’ was more than useless. In fact, now that he thought about it, it was a setback since it meant that their laboratories would have to work for at least five years to make their next breakthrough.

In the meantime his perimeter cities were struggling with industrial problems, and there was only one colony pod in production. The rest of the cities were producing recreation commons to control drones, which had become a serious problem after the population got much higher than 2000 people. Granted, that improvement would be needed anyway, but it was a shame to spend so much effort for so little gain.

What to do? That was simple: allot some of the significant energy surplus to finishing these improvements quickly. Then the cities would be more than productive in terms of local industry and energy production, which is what really mattered. The problem was that at their production rate it would take an interminable amount of time!

Morgan fumed. He felt trapped.

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2165

Commandant Byram Robertson watched the workers assemble the communications station outside of the command bunker. Since landing several months ago they had worked hard to build the new base to get the living quarter built, the power station and the command bunker. With the equipment installed in the command bunker and power on-line the communications tower could be raised and the base could then contact Sparta Command for the first time since the transport ship, HAULER, had left. It was delicate work raising the large tower but the technicians Robertson had selected were the best he could get. Standing next to him was the base garrison commander, Captain Carlos Sanchez.

“Commandant, when you contact Sparta Command later today, what do you plan on calling the base?” Sanchez jokingly laughed. It had become a joke to many that the new base commander had yet to select a name for the colony. A betting pool had been started and a large amount of credits were on the line.

“No, young captain I have not picked a name yet!” Robertson sarcastically replied. Sanchez was only a few months younger than Robertson. Both of them continued to watch the tower raise and then settle into its final place. In the background the rocky crags of the large hills formed an imposing site for all to see. For the first time Byram noticed a particular formation of rocks to the hills beyond.

“Captain, do you see that formation of rocks, just over there.” Robertson pointed to an area slightly to the right of the tower.

“Yes Commandant. My troopers call in blast rifle rock since it looks so much like an impact blast rifle. I am surprised you had not noticed it before.” Sanchez replied with a smirk on his face.

“Well, I think I just thought of a name, Blast Rifle Crag.” Robertson replied as he began to walk towards the command bunker.

“Commandant, surely you can not be serious. Blast Rifle Crag?” Sanchez trotted alongside Robertson to catch up.

“I am totally serious. Blast Rifle Crag is the name. Do you know who won the pool? Was that one of the names?” Robertson replied as he reached for the airlock to cycle the controls.

“Well, I think my sergeant picked Blast Rifle Castle. I suspect he will win the pool. Well, at least I will get a free drink out of it.” Sanchez laughed as he stepped into the airlock and slammed the door shut and hit the air pressure equalizer.

“How are your men doing? I am sorry that we could not bring supplies to build laser weapons but the syntharmor and trance protection modules should prove very effective in defensive operations.” Robertson watched as the green light went on indicating the pressure was equalized and he removed his facemask.

“They are doing very well. I understood the decision to leave the lasers behind so I have designed the training around defensive operations only. We might only have assault rifles for now but we do have good armor and the trance protection modules should give us decisive edge in any combat. Once we get more powerful weapons we can adopt more aggressive tactics but for now we need to work with what we have.” Sanchez removed his facemask as well and then hit the button to open the inner door.



Santiago watched the game intently as the Ironholm players moved the football down the field against stiff resistance. The American style football games had just been started this turn with the help of Major Hazra and Lt. Colonel Mannsfield. Each city put together a football team to represent their city and the teams played every other month on a revolving schedule. Two Sparta Command defenders just tackled the Ironholm receiver when her wrist communicator started to beep. Santiago reached down and activated the communicator and put the receiver unit into her ear.

“Sparta Command, this is Santaigo.”

“Colonel, we have a report of an unknown ship spotted off of our western coast, very near Parade Ground. We have no indication as to the type of the ship but a vessel was spotted.”

“I am returning to command now. Inform the chief of naval operations to meet me along with the other senior command staff at the command bunker. What is the status of WARRIOR? Is she ready to sail?”

“Colonel, WARRIOR is completing a refit and training of the replacement crew lost during the battle with the sea worm. They could leave next turn but they would be shorthanded.”

“Inform the captain of WARRIOR to sail within the hour. I am now heading back to command. Santiago out.”

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2165

Rothchild stuck his head in Morgan’s office to try to gage his mood. He was seated in his chair and he was going over some economic reports, which were his favorite. A brown datapad, which held the year’s production reports for reach base, had not been touched. That was not his most desired way to spend his time. As he watched a smile crossed Morgan’s face.

Rothchild knew what that was about. The solar collector at Morgan Antimatter had finally come on line and that sector was producing six energy – a very prestigious amount indeed. It was the type of detail that vindicated Morgan’s philosophy, and Rothchild knew enough to ‘bury’ it enough so that Morgan would have the delight at having pried some important tidbit from an otherwise dreary report.

“Ahm,” Rothchild said when he gaged the time to be right.

Morgan looked up. “Yes?” he said. His manner was detached.

“There is some urgent business for you, sir,” Rothchild said as he walked in.

Morgan tensed a little. ‘Urgent business’ was a pseudonym for bad news.

Rothchild handed him a data crystal, which Morgan slid into his personal datapad. Then he scanned the contents, which included a schematic of the landmass to their south and the scout and colony pod. There were also a few well-chosen holos that Morgan declined to view.

“How recent is this,” he said.

“Hours old,” Rothchild stated. “The scout commander is requesting guidance, and they need it quickly.”

Morgan considered. He looked back at the datapad. It showed a spoor launcher that had erupted just as the colony pod had moved into position – very unfortunate timing.

“What is the chance the scout team can defeat the launcher,” Morgan asked.

“It is about even,” Rothchild said.

“Then tell them to sit tight,” Morgan said. “The first unit the base will be ordered to produce after it is set up next year is a scout. Then, if our luck fails us, we can deal with the spoor launcher. An added bonus is that we will have a second scout to defend the vulnerable base until a sensor net is established, and perhaps a forward observation post.”

Rothchild nodded. That is exactly what he would have done. “Yes, sir,” he said.

“And Rothchild,” Morgan said as he was leaving. Rothchild stopped and turned around, waiting. “Thank you for the energy report from Antimatter. It made my day.”

Rothchild and Morgan shared a small smile. Perhaps they knew each other too well.

[Hydro]

Sparta, MY 2166

Santiago watched the live video feed from her desk monitor. The camera picked up every detail of the University transport ship as it sailed northward now along the coastline just south of Parade Grounds.

“Colonel, as you can see, look right here.” Major Mannsfield pointed at a section of the forward deck of the transport. “These are rovers. Military intelligence and Naval operations agree that the transport is loaded with light scout rovers.”

“Have they made any attempt to land?” Santiago asked as she continued to watch the ship sail northwards.

“No Colonel, they have not. I have repeatedly asked the University contact I deal with for an explanation as to why the ship is there and I get no response.” Mannsfield eased himself back across the desk and sat down.

“Has WARRIOR left Bunker 118 as ordered?”

“Yes Colonel. Also all repairs and crew replacements are on board. She is at full strength and steaming at top speed along our northern coastline to intercept the University ship. Also, if you will switch to the next screen you will see that WARRIOR charted more land just to the north of Bunker 118. We do not know how far north it extends, it might be an island, but we will follow up to check it out.” Mannsfield had collected his reports and then pulled out a pen and paper. “What should I inform the captain of the WARRIOR to do when he intercepts the University ship?”

“If the transport does not leave our seas, destroy it!” Santiago slammed her fist down on the control panel and the screen on her desk went blank.

Mannsfield did not move for several seconds as he watched some of the anger drain from the Santiago’s face. “Colonel, I do have some good news to report. The scientists linked the alien artifact to our computers and we have reduced the length of time to complete the virtual world project to less than twelve turns. If, for some reason, another faction would complete it before us we can always switch back to the humane genome research and complete it in one turn! I have also been told that Hero’s Waypoint has also started a research project as well!”

Santiago turned to Mannsfield, frustration still filling her eyes. “Lt. Colonel, I want to complete that virtual world project. If need be allocate any resource you need to do so, is that clear?”

“Yes Colonel, we will do our best.”…

*~*~*~*

New Morgan River, MY 2166

Morgan was walking with the newest base manager Ms. Irene Sheffield. Both were smiling.

“You have a very promising base, Madam,” Morgan said.

“Thank you, Sir,” she replied. “I have to say that I didn’t quite believe in the potential for the base until I got here. It is impressive. Between the river and mineral lode where the base was placed, and the fertile river lowland, I think we have the third highest energy production of any Morganite base.”

“You are quite correct,” Morgan commented. “You also have the distinction of having the third highest industrial output, which is no small feat for a fledgling community.” Morgan paused. “I have great expectations from you.”

Irene listened very closely.

“Your expansion is at last reaching the edge of what our bureaucracy can manage,” Morgan said. “As much as I’d like to colonize all the land to the south we much be more judicious in our expansion. Moreover, we need better ways to control our drones, those who cause untoward discontent. I think that your base can set an example. With your productivity you should have that in hand quite quickly. But first there is a more immediate problem.”

“The spoor launcher,” Irene stated.

“Yes. I strongly urge you to complete a scout as a backup to the scout that escorted the pod through the fungus. Then dispatch the launcher. With luck both scouts will survive, and we will be richer for it.”

“Already ordered, sir,” Irene said. “It will take some months to train and equip the crew, but it will be done. After that the scout will be stationed in the fungus to ensure no additional mindworms are lurking out there, or if they are that we are given advance warning of them.”

“Very good,” Morgan said. “I look forward to your reports.”

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2167

The bridge klaxon went off and everyone jumped a foot it seemed. The deck officer reached for the intercom but the captain was coming through the door, he must have been on observation deck just outside the bridge.

“CAPTAIN! Radar reports another isle of the deep just off our port bow and closing fast contact in just under one minute.” The bridge officer yelled.

“Order general quarters! Inform the XO to bring the trance shielding on line to 125% power now!” Captain Kent roared as he moved to his chair and began putting on his trance helmet and vest. The other bridge officers and crew were doing the same. Kent leaped into his chair and hit the tactical display on the screen mounted next to his chair. Damn, it was too close. The trance shield would never reach full power in time, perhaps 80% maybe 85% before it hit, if they were lucky. Already he could fell the pounding in his head.

“This is the Captain. I want the main laser cannons set to auto track and fire as of now. Damage control teams report in the instant we destroy the creature.” Kent could now see the creature rushing at his ship at speeds that rivaled his own ship. Suddenly his head began to explode with pain and everyone else began to hold their heads in their hands.

“STEADY!!! STEADY, MIND THE CONTROLS!! INTIATE AUTO FIRE NOW!!!”

The main guns began to spit out long beams of hot energy that seared the beast as it began to attack the ship by ramming it. Kent could no longer focus and he barely could make out the rest of the bridge crew. The time seemed to stretch forever but then the pain stopped almost at once but it took a few more minutes to clear their heads. Kent looked up and the only thing left of the sea worm was bits and chunks floating on the surface. However, he could easily see that the worm had done extensive damage to the bow section, dry dock time.

“Captain this is the XO. I am getting casualty figures now but we lost about half of the crew, mostly those near the bow section of the ship. Either they died from the closer proximity to the worm or where thrown overboard during the collision and were crushed.”

Kent was numb. There was only one thing to do.

“Helmsman! Navigator! Lay in a course for Ironholm, best possible speed. Chief of the Boat before we leave, we need to recover those energy nodules at once before they sink. At least it will be some compensation for the lives we lost today.” Kent sank back into his chair and began to scan the damage reports that were now flooding in. It could be as long as a four turns to complete the repairs and train replacements.

“Communications, get me a channel to Sparta Command, I need to talk with the Chief of Naval Operations and inform him that we will not be able to intercept the University transport as ordered.”

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2167

“I’m glad to see the spoor launcher was dispatched,” Morgan said as he skimmed the report. “And it looks like there was minimal damage to the scouting team, which is good. Have them take up position in the fungus south of the base. That should give us some advance warning of any other worms that might happen our way, and give us the chance to attack them before they get too close.”

“Yes, sir,” Rothchild said. “And what about the Special Project proposal?”

Morgan was silent for a while. “I agree with the Board’s assessment. However, we are a little short of resources, even with the surge in our energy output and reserves.”

Rothchild waited for a few more moments, then Morgan spoke up. “Tell the Board that we’ll table it for now. I have a few ideas.”

*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2168

The SFS WARRIOR slowly limped across the sea at barely half speed due mostly to the fact a good chunk of her bow was missing. Captain Jorgensen watched from the seas slowly slip past from the starboard side observation platform next to the bridge. Jorgensen was frustrated at the slow speed of the ship due to the damage. Even with their best efforts they could not repair the bow damage sufficiently to withstand the pressure of the sea at higher speeds.

“Captain? I thought you had gone below.” Jorgensen turned towards the voice of his XO who stepped out onto the platform. “I thought I would take a solar position, just to check the computer.” The XO hesitated for a moment slightly fumbling with his sextant.

“Its okay, come out.” Jorgensen watched as the young officer put the sextant to his eye and began taking a reading. Tim Anderson was his new XO, the next in line, after the tragic death of his last. During one of the attempts to shore up the bow section a deck plate fell and cut the arms off at his elbows. The rushed the XO to the sickbay but it was too late.

Jorgensen watched the young lieutenant complete his reading and then slip back onto the bridge as quickly as possible. Once back at base he would be reassigned and Jorgensen would get a more senior XO. Next turn they should make it back and then repairs could be started. What worried him the most was the fact that Ironholm had only a very basic harbor and a dry dock yard. Parade Ground or Bunker 118 had much more sophisticated harbors and docks but they were to far away too reach under their present situation. No, the best course was to reach Ironholm and safety.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Construction, MY 2168

“The problem is getting serious, sir,” Rothchild explained.

Morgan and the rest of the Board of Directors pored over the holo, looking for angles and hidden nuggets of information. Unfortunately, Rothchild had done an excellent job, as usual.

“Fully five bases now have social stability problems, so one fourth of our population is non-productive. This is a severe drain on each of these city’s productive potential, and it has led to a significant drop in food, industrial, and critical energy output.”

“Can’t they finish their recreation commons?” Director Hsu Lee asked.

“They are working on it, but their industrial output crippled they have a very low output. It will be difficult to see how some of them will finish their commons in less than 10 or 15 years,” Rothchild explained.

“Years!?” Director Furgisson almost yelled as she looked up from his meta analysis.

“Yes, years,” Rothchild stated. He looked over at Morgan, who nodded in agreement. The rest of the Board noticed this not so subtle exchange. “Some will take even longer since they have no industrial output at all, and no growth.”

That got their attention.

“And now we have an added problem. It is now quite clear after the establishment of our tenth base, Morgan Construction, that we are entering a bureaucratic morass that is itself causing more social instability. In short, our growth is causing formerly stable bases to slip into anarchy. We saw this at Robotics last year, and it has almost shut down their meager industrial output.

“The point is that we can no longer grow our way our of our problems. More definitive action is needed,” Rothchild finished.

“Not needed,” Morgan said, finally breaking his silence. “Required. We no longer have the luxury of sitting back and allowing this wave of instability cripple our society. The penalty for inaction is high, too high to be allowed.”

The Board had reviewed the data, and some had even done some cross checking to ensure there were no ‘creative’ elements of the analysis. Although some of the statistical evaluation skirted the edge of what the data would allow, it was all valid, even solid. If anything, the extra analysis by Director Shin only added to the meta analysis, proving the conclusion.

“I invite your suggestions. It is now time for you to earn your pay, or perhaps to prove you should earn your pay,” Morgan said. The point was not lost. “I will expect to see group or individual analyses to be presented in a period of two weeks. Your budgets have been increased by a tenth of a megacredit each. Spend this as you see fit.”

Morgan gave Rothchild a very quick glance as he rode herd on the departing Directors. It had gone well, and the seeds had been planted. It remained to see what they would grow into.

*~*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2169

Commandant Iris Montgomery watched the seas flow by the sides of the ship during the early hours of the morning. She glanced up over the bows of the ship and for the first time she saw the feint outline of land to the east, their final destination. The captain of HAULER informed her that they would make landfall by the end of next turn and they could unload the colony pod, supplies and colonists. It had been a long journey since leaving Ironholm but the end was almost in sight. I suppose she would be lucky in one sense in that just after the colony would be set-up two terra-formers would arrive from Sparta to help improve the area. Since the discovery that just one sector of water separated Sparta from the eastern continent it had been decided that HAULER would stay on station and act as a ferry shuttling the terraformers and other units across the stretch of sea. They had also been promised that within five turns the 1st scout/rover regiment would arrive to help explore the surrounding area.

“Commandant? May I have a word with you?” Montgomery turned to her left to see her future base garrison commander approaching. “Has Sparta Command informed you as to the site we are to set-up on yet?”

“No Tom they have not. The latest word from Command is that we are to equip your garrison with trance and armor protection and immediately start on building a recycling tank. As to where we will do all that Command has yet to tell me.” Montgomery at first had not liked the choice of her garrison commander Tom Mitchell. Captain Tom Mitchell had an excellent record but unfortunately he had a streak for abusive behavior toward superiors. His excellent performance had gone a long way to cover up his behavior but in time he had been passed over several time for promotion to senior captain. One this position came available he had personally come to see her and almost beg for the chance to become the commander. Something in his attitude made her take a chance on him, something she almost regretted immediately due to his temper and behavior but overtime the long sea voyage had allowed them to get to know each other and now they understood each other.

“I hope they select the nearer site rather than the southern one. With HAULER acting as a bridge if we need reinforcements they will arrive quickly once we get a road set-up.” Tom walked over to the railing and stood next to her.

“I agree, I asked to set-up there as well. I will find it hard to believe that they would choose the southern site. No, if I know Santiago she will pick the nearer one.” Montgomery watched as the colonists started to come on deck and look out over the bow towards their new home. She watched as they pointed and chatted back and forth and wondered if it would be as wonderful as they hoped.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2169

“Director Shin,” Morgan said, “let me congratulate your team on your innovative solution to your social stability problem.”

Director Shin gave the CEO a short bow, and his team followed suit a fraction of a second later. Behind him were two other directors and the leaders of his technical team. All were dressed in their best for this occasion. It was not every day that CEO Morgan paid for 15 minutes of prime time on 3-D Holovision to personally present an award and announce commendations.

Morgan shook each person’s hands as he walked by, and he continued his semi-formal monologue. “Your insight into the root cause was singular: lack of infrastructure and inducements to enhance productivity. But, that wasn’t the brilliant part, since it was well known. While other teams focused on the problems of each base, frequently recommending individual enhancements, your team focused on the big picture. Your singular question was key: what improvement could help our citizens achieve their potential? That led to your answer: the Human Genome Project, which gives the populous the benefits of its gene therapies and enhanced life. Moreover, its effects are spread over our entire society. In itself that was an exemplary observation, but your team didn’t stop there. You further noted that the increased social harmony would allow the latent quarter of our people to become productive again, and therefore finish the base-specific improvements quickly! And they would provide more research, and energy reserves.”

Morgan stopped and stepped back. He was beaming, and he didn’t have to put on a show for the crowd. He was genuinely pleased. “You can each be justifiably proud of yourselves. The Board of Directors is happy to allocate 400 megacredits from the Morgan Central Bank to ensure the Human Genome Project is finished within the year. Your extraordinary insights will serve us all for decades to come, and I believe we will see this day as a critical turning point. And for that I thank you!”

Several on the team were wiping away tears and others were beaming. Dr. Shin was his normal quiet self, but he seemed to stand a bit taller than normal meter and three-quarters.

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2170

Captain Antonio Madars could hardly believe his eyes as the object came into focus in his mag-glasses. It was a giant obelisk that measured nearly 6 meters tall and it was covered in runes of some sort, similar to the ones found on the alien ruins near Sparta Command. Captain Madars was the leader of the 1st L.E.R.P (Long range – Evaluation – Reconnaissance – Pathfinder) rover regiment. It was Madars job to scout the remaining portions of Thrace and report back all information. His unit had the very latest “trance” protection modules installed on each rover as well as each team member had a trance helmet. The rovers had laser weapons but no armor since they could not afford the weight due to the need to carry extra supplies and equipment. Sparta Command had learned a lot from the deaths of the 2nd scout/rover regiment and they were not about to make the same error in judgment twice.

“Captain, what is that thing?” His gunner asked as he zoomed in on the obelisk with his range finder scope mounted to the laser turret.

“Bender, I have no idea. Driver! Lets make for that object, full speed. This is Captain Madars to all L.E.R.P. rovers converge on my coordinates and investigate object. Rovers seven, eight and nine take up over watch positions to our flanks.” Madars closed the channel and continued to watch the object get closer and closer. It was not to far away from Defiance Freehold or Blast Rifle Crag but it was difficult to get too since it was in sea of fungus. Madars flipped another set of communications switches on his command panel.

“Sparta Command this is Captain Madars! I am up linking our newest telemetry and recon photos. You will not believe what we found!”

Commandant Iris Montgomery walked across the beach towards the hillside and towards their new home. She glanced back over he shoulder at the workers struggling to pack the colony pod with all of the equipment that had been shuttled across from HAULER. Time was now of the essence. They were vulnerable out here and they need to get set-up fast! She reached down and hit the open communication channel.

“Alright everyone! Lets get moving!” Montgomery shouldered her pack and began to walk up the hill towards their new home on the continent of Macedonia.

[Hydro]

Morgan Industries, MY 2170

Morgan pored over the results of the completed Human Genome Project. As projected, all drone problems had disappeared. Or, rather, those who were quite happy with the advantages the Genome provided to them had subsumed negative reactions of the discontented. The drones, as they were called were still there, but only just muted and below the surface.

That made completed the recreation commons at most bases just as critical. With that in mind Morgan authorized 34 megacredits to complete the recreation commons at Distribution. It could work on other projects now, such as possibly a colony pod. It wouldn’t take too long now that all the population was gainfully employed. The multitude of forests was providing ample minerals and energy and a modest allocation of food. In particular, the energy special forest near Robotics was quite productive. The total production of minerals had spiked noticeably, and food had risen as well. Energy to the treasury had increased 13 percent, which wasn’t bad at all. The laboratory allocation hadn’t changed that much, which was disappointing, though – there was not noticeable change even if the total lab output had increased. This would take some further analysis.

In the end Morgan was pleased. The HGP was a rousing success, and it would pave the way to the quick establishment of a half dozen more bases and some serious infrastructure improvements. More terraforming would be completed, too, and now it could be fully utilized since all the malcontents were back at work. The disaffected would not be given cause to stop work once the rec commons were done, which would also be soon.

Now that the immediate crisis was over Morgan turned his thoughts to the immediate future. A base would have to be chosen to start accumulating resources for a new Project, and the infrastructure of Industries and Antimatter would need a network node. More growth would be needed, so crèches’ might be in the future. It was a relief not to have to worry about all the drones, and to plan a path forward.

It was a good day.

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2171

The 1st L.E.R.P regiment rovers began to slowly move through the fungus along a long line stretching nearly the entire sector so as to maximize their reconnaissance efforts. Captain Madars had almost wished he had canceled that command and regrouped his rovers. After discovering the first monolith they quickly found three more, one to the west and two to the south. The monoliths were arranged in such a manner as to form an angle. They had also found many smaller stone obelisks with writings and mathematical formulas. The most startling discovery had been purely accidental. Once the bulk of the rovers had arrived at the sector with the first monolith the research advisors who were attached to the L.E.R.P. regiment began to examine the monolith and a strange energy wave erupted from it. Within seconds the entire regiment felt stronger, more vibrant, full of energy and strength. The medics had examined each of them and soon discovered that the energy wave had somehow altered their physical structures. Each of them had undergone a massive rejuvenation treatment of sorts. Old ailments were healed, they had all become stronger, faster and their eye hand coordination had been improved by 50%! It had been an incredible. All the data they had collected had been sent back to Sparta Command who would certainly be able to use it to advance their medical research into anti-aging. As soon as they had discovered more of the monoliths it became clear that this area would be of vital importance, both strategic and tactical. The 1st L.E.R.P. regiment had found a single sector of land in the center of the area that was free of fungus but it was very inhospitable place. Ancient ruins littered the area and some energy blast had left it barren and dry. However, a new city and research complex could be built here to study the ruins and protect them from anyone else gaining access to them. Madars had left a small team of researchers behind to continue their work at the future colony site but he had been ordered to move on further west to scout the far side of the alien complex.

“Captain, why do you think they built this place?” Madar’s driver asked as they rumbled along.

“I don’t know. One of the scientists suggested the site most likely a temple of some sort. The lack of houses and other facilities suggest the place was used for a single purpose. The combined energy of the monoliths is staggering when added to together they would out produce our current entire energy production.” Madars watched the screen next to his command display looking for further signs of monoliths. They were pretty easy to spot since they stuck out like a sore thumb on radar.

“CAPTAIN, this is rover two! I have multiple contacts now to the west. It looks like this entire area is “boxed” in with these things.” Madars hit the send button on his command line.

“ROVER TWO, send your telemetry to my station now. Hold your position until the regiment arrives at your position. Madars OUT!” Madars closed the channel and then typed in a quick message to the other rovers to converge on rover two’s position. Well, it looks like the eggheads were right this entire area was a square design with the monoliths forming a wall around the area. Madars reached down and hit the button to open a communication channel with command he had to report this!

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2171

Morgan reflected that infrastructure development was really humming along now. In the last few years two recreation commons had been completed, and that would keep the citizens productive and relatively happy for a long time. Other bases would be finishing their commons soon, and then they could concentration on more colony pods and perhaps a recycling tank. Stability and resources are key!

Another interesting proposal was for the construction of a transport and a bevy of probe teams. There were lots of possibilities, and some of them were very tempting. Aki was relatively nearby and it would be very instructive to be able to see what she was up to. After all, she had been singularly unfriendly for decades now, and forewarned is forearmed. This transport might be useful to do a little exploring, too.

Recent analysis indicated that perhaps the HGP was not the best idea. Another researcher had pointed out that the investment from the Morgan Central Bank of 400 megacredits could have completed most of the commons quickly. But, the HGP does have several advantages. First, there is no maintenance cost and second; it would allow most bases to grow to 4000 people after the commons were constructed. That was good, since the holotheatres were very expensive to build and maintain.

All and all the situation was doing nicely. There would be another base established in a few years, and the third wave of colony pods were likely to be done in the next decade or so. In the meantime core bases would be free to pursue defenses and infrastructure – always a good thing.

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2172

Commandant Iris Montgomery watched intently as the communications chief tried to lock in the frequency to Sparta Command. The colony was still under construction but the command center was the first thing Iris had ordered built so that she could coordinate support from command. Already the first terra-former had arrived from command, it had been transported across from Bunker 118 and it was already clearing the fungus to the south. Soon another terraformer would arrive to help with the work.

“Commandant, I have Sparta Command.” The communications chief held up the microphone to her.

“Sparta Command, this is Fort Ticonderoga, OVER!” She paused for a few seconds waiting for a reply. It had been her choice to name the base and what better name could she have chosen. Fort Ticonderoga had been a key military base protecting the rich and populated land below. Their colony would much the same thing since their city was now the stepping-stone to the new continent.

“Fort Ticonderoga, this is Colonel Santiago, you are coming in 4x4, OVER!”

”Colonel, this is commandant Montgomery and I am please to report the base is up and running. We have completed assembly of the garrison equipment so they are now fully armored and have the trance protection modules installed. We will begin construction on a terraformer next turn and then a recycling tank. I wish to inform you that support has begun to arrive from command. A terraformer arrived this turn and has begun clearing the rich nutrient laden sector to the south. Once they complete the terraforming operations they will move westward to prepare a sensor system for the next colony, OVER.”

“Excellent work Fort Ticonderoga. Report any contact with any faction. The 1st scout/rovers will be arriving next turn to provide additional security and support. Sparta Command, OUT!” The line went dead and Montgomery handed back the microphone to that radio chief. She then slowly turned and left the room feeling immensely pleased with herself. Fort Ticonderoga was the ninth colony pod built by the Spartan people and it represented a great achievement for them all.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2172

“This is most interesting,” Morgan said. “I was not aware we were underutilizing our farms, particularly those on the rainiest portions of our lands.”

“Yes, I’m afraid it is true. We were not even aware of it until we had the breakthrough in Gene Splicing. Then we were able to immediately put some fairly simple enhancements to allow our earth plants to thrive even better than before. Of course, it was only simple after we made the discovery!”

Morgan nodded a few times. He has half listening to the lead scientist’s explanation. The other half of his attention was focused on the economic summaries. They were impressive. Farms in rainy areas would now produce 50 percent more food! Moreover, it made constructing condensers to gather more rainfall even more profitable. Now Morgan had a use for those formers who were working on secondary or tertiary terraforming projects!

“…and so, as I said, we will be able to implement most of these improvements immediately. A few bases will benefit from this, but these have the most room for growth.”

“Excellent,” Morgan said, cutting him off. The scientist stopped his explanation since Morgan was standing up.

“I am most impressed with the work you and your team have completed,” he said as he ushered him gently but firmly to the door. Morgan had learned the art of freeing himself from unwanted guests long ago, and he could even do it without the guest realizing he was being dismissed. “Please give me updates on your next project.”

The scientist beamed, and Morgan smiled back. It was a veritable love fest.

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2173

Santiago sat in the command conference room watching a map display with of Spartan territory and the surrounding area. The newest telemetry and map updates had been loaded into the system and the most current display was now in front of them to study.
Santiago leaned picked up a laser pointer and flashed an area just north of Fort Ticonderoga. SFS HAULER had been ordered to scout just north of Ft. Ticonderoga and to land the 1st scout/rovers and then return back. When sailing north along the coastline HAULER had spotted another monolith just like the ones found to the east on Thrace.

“I want the 1st scouts to land here.” The laser dot highlighted the sector with the monolith. “I want them to begin their sweep due west then move south and then back toward Ticonderoga. I find it highly suspicious that none of the other faction leaders have reported any contact or discoveries or remains of the alien civilization that was here before us. Either they are lying to us or the aliens only colonized certain portions of this world. Regardless of the final answer we have clear proof of more ruins and the possibility of alien contact. I want HAULER back on station as soon as possible if we need her to ferry reinforcements to Ticonderoga, is that clear?”

“Yes colonel!” Mannsfield and the senior command staff replied.

“Once we complete this “Virtual World” project I want a change made in the production schedule. I want to move the advanced command, control and training complex to the front of the line I want it built next. With those advanced facilities on line I want to create the 1st armored rover regiment immediately and they will be equipped with trance protection, is that clear! We can then send them across to Ticonderoga to bolster their defense.”

“Colonel, the captain of the 1st L.E.R.P. team wanted instructions as to how to proceed since they found that huge fungal tower.” Mannsfield asked as he punched up the video feed from the team of the giant tower. The fungal tower was massive measuring over 20 meters tall and 8 meters at the base. The reports from the science teams attached to the L.E.R.P. team had hypothesized that the towers acted like a breeding center for the fungus. Perhaps by destroying the tower the surrounding fungus fields might die. It was clear that if they did plan on building a research city in the center of the temple area they would have to destroy the fungal tower.

Santiago stared at the video feed with fierce determination. She hated the fungus. She was convinced that it was the fungus that had driven the previous inhabitants off of this planet or destroyed their civilization, something that would not happen to the Spartans.

“Order the 1st L.E.R.P. to engage the tower and burn it to the ground!” Santiago replied with a cold and icy voice.

“Colonel, that is a very LARGE creature. If it has the same defensive capabilities as the other native life forms it could prove to be too much, even with the trance modules.” Mannsfield quickly replied. Secretly he hoped to persuade Santiago to allow the rovers.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Solarfex, MY 2173

Morgan was basking in the afterglow. This was the eleventh Morganite base, and now that social instability problems were manageable it was much more fun to preside over the founding of new bases since they did not immediately go into riot.

Rothchild was working his way through the crowd, and he was making a b-line for Morgan. That got his attention, especially when he elbowed a partygoer that refused to get out of the way. The highly offended woman now had a fruity drink all over her sequenced low-cut dress, and she screeched in indignation. It came out more as a bellow due to her inebriated state, but the effect was the same.

He paid no attention to her, and didn’t even turn around to acknowledge her existence. There would be no apology forthcoming, apparently.

As he got near he bent near Morgan. “Sir, we have a situation. I need to talk to you immediately,” he said. Morgan nodded once and nodded toward a balcony.

It was brisk outside, but Morgan didn’t notice. “Cyborg troops have landed near Morgan Construction,” Rothchild began without preamble. “Best reports are that they are armed with lasers and synthmetal armor, and that their morale is pretty high. The incursion was reported by a former crew preparing a forest.”

Morgan frowned. Aki had always been most uncooperative, but this was something entirely different: their relationship of purposeful neglect had apparently devolved into something worse.

“Any communication from the Cyborgs?” he asked.

“Yes,” Rothchild said as he handed Morgan his PDA. Morgan took and activated the device.

The Prime Consciousness Aki Zeta-Five appeared. She turned slightly and looked into the holo imager. “Your society is illogical and weak. You are required to give the Consciousness your files on Industrial Economics.”

Morgan instantly understood what was not said – this was a threat. Morgan forces a smile, “Of course, I will be happy to share my data. We are friends here, after all…”

“Transmit those files now,” she said.

Morgan nodded to Rothchild, and he enacted the transfer.

Something to Aki’s left beeped and she looked down momentarily. “You are required to give the Consciousness your files on Gene Splicing,” she interrupted.

Morgan’s smile disappeared and he immediately regretted his effort at appeasement; historically it only whetted an aggressor’s appetite, but those in a diminished state frequently had few options. “As much as I’d like to accommodate you, I’m afraid that I not possible.”

“I will take great pleasure in eradicating your faction,” Aki said. The line was severed.

Silence fell between Morgan and Rothchild.

“Upgrade the defender at Construction immediately,” Morgan said. “Get the former out of the way, if you can. I suspect they will be too slow, however. Send our reserves in the reserves.”

Morgan was curt. He had few options, but he would use them all.

[Hydro]

Sparta, MY 2174

Santiago walked down the main corridor to the command center with Mannsfield and her elite team of bodyguards. They had just left a meeting with Director Boothe concerning colony pod production.

“Colonel, after we complete the four colony pods in production do you plan further expansion as suggested by Director Boothe?” Mannsfield asked as he pulled out his data device to record her answer.

“No Mannsfield I do not. We currently have nine colonies in operation and the four we have in production would bring us to thirteen. Most importantly it will give us a total of four colonies on Thrace and Macedonia which should give us a sizable hold on each continent. I want to focus our efforts on building recycling tanks and terraforming projects.” Santiago replied as they continued to walk down the hall.

“Director Boothe will not be pleased with your response on continued colonization expansion however more terraformers will make her and Assistant Director Smithe happy I should say.” Mannsfield replied blandly as he quickly made a note of all of this in his data pad.

“Whether Director Boothe is happy or sad is not my worry or concern. As long as she manages her department properly I do not care how she feels. Perhaps I should have a talk with her to explain to her that her role in supporting the greater Spartan federation is just that, support, nothing more.” Santiago fired back hotly.

Both of them reached the main doors to the command center when they were flung open and young captain stood there, slightly out of breath.

“Colonel, we have been contacted by the Cyborg leader Aki-Zeta she wishes to speak to you about an urgent matter! She wishes to talk with you now.” The captain stood at attention waiting.

Santiago brushed past him and walked directly to the main conference room. The doors opened automatically for her as she approached. The room was empty but the main screen was on but on hold status. Santiago walked over to her chair and sat down and adjusted her uniform. Mannsfield followed behind and sat down to the right of her. He then flipped several switches and then screen lit up with the face of the cyborg leader.

“Colonel Santiago of the Spartan Federation. We wish to propose a new alliance. Our plan is this, you would join with us to attack the Morganite faction as part of our sneak attack on them. After the Morgan faction is under our control we can disperse their technology, resources and wealth between us. Do you agree to our terms?” Aki’s voice was as flat and lifeless as usual. Corazon could not help noticing that Aki had added more electronic devices to her body.

“Aki-Zeta our policy has not changed in regard to alliances. We will not agree to any until ALL other factions are accounted for. Two, our society holds honor, loyalty and duty sacred and your proposal for a “sneak attack” is an insult to them. Should we Spartans go to war we will do so with honor!” Santiago fired back.

Aki went blank for several minutes as she “processed” the information. Mannsfield had told her that the Cyborgs were all linked together and even though Aki was the leader of the Cyborgs all major decisions were made by the collective mind.

“Colonel Santiago your decision is based on antiquated ideals and primitive beliefs. It is not logical. You are a primitive people that have yet to see the future of mankind and our infinite capabilities. Your relentless pursuit of ancient customs and social order will only lead your people to ruin. Reconsider our offer.” Aki was almost indignant in her response.

“I see no further reason to discuss this, Santiago out!” Mannsfield promptly killed the link and then turned to Santiago.

“Where is WARRIOR?” Santiago stood up and walked over to the main map display. Mannsfield quickly brought up the latest telemetry from the ship and its exact location, which then showed up as a dot on the map. WARRIOR was now due north of the main Spartan holdings, nearly seven sectors north.

“Order WARRIOR to continue north and scout for any Cyborg vessels. If they see any inform command. Also, I want them to try and find the Morganites if possible, as quickly as possible. We still think they are just north of us, here,” Santiago pointed at a point on the map that was blank but it did have some elevation marks. “WARRIOR is to go due north and scout this area and then move east to here and then south. Is that clear?”

“Yes Colonel.”

“Its now clear to me that these cyborgs can not be trusted. If we can make contact with these Morganites there could be a possibility for an alliance against they cyborgs. Also, it could prove beneficial to us to exchange technology with them and at least “even the odds” against the cyborgs. If the cyborgs dominate the Morganites then they become stronger. In this case a very old saying seems to fit here very nicely, “the enemy of my enemy is my friend”. If we can align ourselves with the Morganites we create a block against the cyborgs. Both of these factions will fight, bleeding each other dry why we on the other hand prosper, grow and become the dominate military force on the planet.” Santiago slammed her fist into her hand to emphasize the point.

Mannsfield had been taking notes during her statement trying to filter the relevant portions that would have to be translated into orders. When she stopped talking he stopped as well and looked up. She was standing there in front of the large map starring at the large black area of the unknown lands of Chiron as if in a trance. He wondered sometimes if Santiago really believed in those principals she just mentioned to Aki. Perhaps if the roles were reversed it might have been Spartan storm troopers landing on those beaches......

*~*~*~*~

[b]Morgan Industries, MY 2174/b]

Morgan entered the hastily modified war room, which previously had been a secondary meeting chamber. Now it sported a holo display with a few detail schematics of the War Front – Morgan Construction. Rothchild and General Samuel Perkins were waiting for him.

“News,” Morgan said without preamble.

General Perkins took a small step forward and pointed to the detail map of Construction. “The infantry didn’t attack the former last turn and it made it safely south, where it helped another former finish a sensor.”

“Will that sensor help Construction?” Morgan interrupted.

“No. It is too far away – three sectors,” Perkins.

“What is the infantry group doing?” Morgan asked.

“It appears to have upgraded its weaponry,” the General said as he touch activated a few holo shots taken of the Cyborgs. They showed shipments of equipment being brought ashore, and that the main guns were being modified. The guns looked much bigger now. “Our best guess, and it is a guess, is that this newer weapon is twice as effective as the old one.”

“How do you know that?”

“The configuration is similar to a design that a minor and unfounded science technician devised. It is just theory, but the overall design is similar to this device,” Samuel said.

“How does this stack up to the defenders at Construction?” Morgan asked.

Perkins paused. “Not good. The scout was upgraded to synthmetal this last year, but it has less than half the armor we think they’d need. They’ll get some defense from the base, but that is offset completely by the infantry’s ability at siege. It is clear that we half to get a sensor up to augment defense.”

“Then do it,” Morgan said as he surveyed the holos. “Have the three formers move in so that they can create a sensor to protect Construction. Gentleman, we have to buy time. I would hate to have the former crews sacrificed, but it is critical the base does not fall. We have too much invested. What is the status of our probe teams?”

“Probe team Alpha left Industries yesterday, and probe team Beta left Collections three days ago. Both will be in position to strike at the infantry by next year when it is proximate to Construction,” General Perkins said.

“Good. Any chance we can…induce the infantry to change sides? We do have a lot to offer, and I’m sure we can make it worth their while,” Morgan said.

“I don’t know,” the General said. “It all depends on how loyal they are. We have no way of knowing until we approach them.”

“Can we do that without losing the probe team?” Morgan said.

“Yes, with ease.”

“Assuming we survive this intact we much have more options than we have now,” Morgan said. “Examine nearby bases and find those that can create more probes, and we have to have a transport ASAP. We have to even up this technical disparity, gentlemen, and we have to do it now.”

Morgan fell silent for a minute. “If you will excuse me, I have to ride herd on some very unhappy Board member. Rothchild, please follow. I’ll need your assistance.”

Both men filed out of the room. As soon as they were gone General Perkins started into work.

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2175

> Sparta 2174, four sectors north of Fort Ticonderoga. <

The 1st scout/rovers were in “V” formation as the first rover crested a very large hill and suddenly stopped. Captain Mars who was in the command rover several hundred meters back watched the lead rover stop and quickly opened a channel to the lead rover.

“Rover 2 why have you stopped, what’s your status?” Mars barked.

“Captain! You need to hustle up here ASAP!” The fire team leader of rover two replied.

Mars motioned to the driver to close the distance and quickly while they moved in Mars ordered all other rovers to halt and take up defensive positions. As Mar’s rover got near the crest he could see that the fire team leader had moved his rover back down the hill slightly so it was out of sight and his team had dismounted and were laying on the ground. Mars ordered the rover to stop next to rover two and he quickly jumped out and scrambled forward on the ground to the hillcrest. What he saw blew his mind away. There far below stood a huge gleaming city of white and gold towers. The city was over twice the size of Sparta Command and it looked like more buildings were being built. As Mars looked through his mag-glasses he suddenly caught a flash of blue on the large tower in the center, quickly he refocused the glasses and the symbol came into focus, the United Nations symbol. Pravin Lal. Mars quickly keyed in the channel on his enviro-suit data pad to Sparta Command.

“Sparta Command, this is Captain Mars, get me Colonel Santiago NOW!”



>3 weeks later, Sparta Command main conference room, Sparta – 2174 <

“Pravin Lal will be contacting us in a few minutes but before he does I want to quickly review what we know so far. The “Peacekeepers” as they call themselves now follow a strict democratic governmental system modeled after the United Nations. Pravin still believes he is the leader of the human colonists here and he is seems driven reunite all of the factions under his control. His business and industrial operations follow a “planned” economic model just as we do now. What is more disturbing is that there are nearly 60,000 citizens in the Peacekeeper faction, which is three times larger than our own. They have also completed a special project that links ALL of their cities into an integrated command and control system making their soldiers very effective. However, in our favor we have an “edge” in weapons since as far as we can tell they still only have laser weapons. Also, our recent discovery of plasma armor gives our soldiers a tremendous edge in combat. In all, the Peacekeepers would make a very worthy opponent. Currently we have two terra-formers moving northward to level a particular rich sector of land at the headwaters of a river. This spot will be the future site of a colony that is being prepared at Bunker 118. Once the land is cleared a sensor will be built to add advanced early warning detection to their defenses. The new base will be only two sectors away from the Peacekeeper capital but it will be built on OUR side of the current border. Once the new colony is built it should push our territorial claims even further and thus allow us to claim the alien monolith for our own. The consensus of the command consul is that this base should be operated as a forward command and control center and it will be strictly operated under military control and supervision. Lastly, we will move rapidly to place another colony pod south of Fort Ticonderoga in order to provide more security for the base. I think that about sums things up and I see from the message flashing across my screen that Pravin Lal is now on line with us.” Mannsfield sat down and waited till Santiago give the sign to activated the screen. Santiago turned and nodded slightly which was the signal to activate the screen.

The screen suddenly lit up and Pravin Lal was on the screen. He looked older than the last time Santiago saw him, much older. It was clear Peacekeeper scientists had not unlocked some of the secrets of the monolith to fight aging as they had done.

“Greetings Corazon it is good to see you again. I was so worried that none of the other pods had made it other than myself and Chairman Yang of the Hive.” Santiago could kept her face and body motionless but she wanted to smash her fist down in anger as to why they no one had told her about this Chairman Yang. “I wish to offer to you the promise of a new beginning for us all on Chiron by joining with me to rebuild the dream we had when we left earth. I for one would be willing to exchange the communication frequency of Chairman Yang for some of your technology as a symbol of our new friendship.” Pravin smiled at the end of his speech.

“Pravin I have no intention of joining with you on anything. It was your stupid incompetence that caused this fiasco in the first place. We Spartans will not make any treaty with any faction until we have contacted them all. Third, I have no intention of trading the technology you requested on artillery systems for a mere communication frequency. So I see no reason to discuss any issues further with you. Santiago out!” Mannsfield killed the channel and turned back to Santiago.

“Why was I not told about Yang!” Santiago spat out.

“Colonel, we did not know ourselves. It seems that piece of news Lal kept to himself. Do you really think it is wise to antagonize him so?” Mannsfield asked hurriedly.

“I care very little what Pravin Lal thinks. I suggest Mannsfield that you organize a committee to review our production plans at once in light of this news.” Santiago sank back into her chair and watched as Mannsfield stood up and began to speak. She mused to herself about what she hated more; Lal or the fungus.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2175

“General,” Morgan said, “are you telling me the Cyborg infantry hasn’t moved in over a year? That they are just sitting there?”

General Samuel Perkins nodded. “Yes, that is exactly what I’m telling you. See for yourself. They have made no move toward Morgan Construction, or toward the road that connects it with the rest of our bases.”

“Have the formers moved forward to construct the sensor?” Morgan asked.

“Yes,” the General said. “They are not quite done, but considering the Cyborgs haven’t moved that is not a problem.”

“This is a perplexing but welcome development,” Morgan said. “What about our probe teams?”

Samuel smiled. “Team Alpha has made contact with certain command elements of the Cyborg impact infantry, and they are willing to switch sides for ‘consideration’.”

“Of course,” Morgan said. He understood this completely. “How much?”

“Considering the situation, it is rather steep: 169 megacredits,” he said.

Morgan didn’t flinch. He did not have that kind of cash, but he knew who did.

“Get me Zakharov on the line. We have to chat…”

[Hydro]

Sparta, MY 2175

Mannsfield walked up to the podium in the briefing room and opened up his briefing book.

“Good morning. As customary on the last day of a turn we will have a review of the year along with projections for the coming year. But first, we need to review current events. Late yesterday Pravin Lal contacted us to request the communication frequency for the Cyborgs. I consulted with Colonel Santiago and she agreed to transmit the frequency for 40 mega credits. It is the Colonel’s belief that once Pravin is exposed to the devious nature of the cyborgs he might feel inclined to support the Morganites. We gave them a very brief review of our dealings with the Cyborgs and he thinks he can negotiate a settlement. So if that is how he wants to occupy his time all the better for us. Now, the other news of importance is that Ironholm completed a colony pod and it should be moving out in few days towards the colony site just south of the Peacekeeper capital. It will take nearly 9 to 10 turns for it to reach the site but by then the land should be leveled and a sensor array built upon its arrival. That base should give us an excellent staging area for any offensive or defensive operations. Based on the report from the command advisory consul we will need to invest a great deal of mega credits to improve this base as quickly as possible. Colonel Santiago has pre-approved any expenditure needed to get that base up and running. So that is all I have, Director Boothe is next." ”

Mannsfield stepped down from the podium and took his customary seat and Director Boothe walked past him to the podium.

“Good morning. I have both good news and bad news to report today. The good news is our industrial capacity has improved greatly due to the switch to a planned economy. Along with that our growth rates are up as well. However, our efficiency at managing our economy and planning production is not going very well. The system is bogging down and as result our energy production has taken a huge reduction. Which in turn has effected our research rates as well. Many of our top research people left to pursue other activities due to the difficulties in getting supplies, computer processing time and funding issues. My department is working around the clock to clear up these issues but suffice it to say it is a monumental task. As our cities grow we can expect more productivity and with more productivity we can increase our research rate. Also, as our cities put into operation the children crèche projects we expect to see a full 50% decrease in inefficiency. In fact, several of our cities are completing these improvements now and they should help considerably to elevate the waste that is strangling our system now. Now, on to better news, the “virtual world” project. As you can see from the data in front of you we will complete the project next turn! With the completion of the virtual world system our people will get to use the most state of the art holographic system for recreation. It will be linked into each network node built in each city so we do not have to build a separate system to operate it. Our terraforming operations are ahead of schedule and we should have a second sea-former to help clear the fungus away and tap the limitless potential of the sea. Thank you.”

Boothe picked up her briefing book and walked back to her seat. Major Robert Hudson stood up and quickly walked up to the podium.

“Good morning. If you will open your briefing books to tab five you can review in detail our current operational battle force and garrison units. What I intend to concentrate on future operations and troop deployments. First, the 1st L.E.R.P. regiment is still bogged down in the fungus fields near the alien temple. Once they reach a monolith and activate the healing properties they will then assault the fungal tower and destroy it. After that they will work their way back to the east to help escort a colony pod. Our 1st scout/rovers have taken up a defensive position along the ridgeline where the forward base is to be built. I strongly encourage and request that at least two plasma armored, impact armed rover units are built as soon as possible. I think it is crucial for our security that we get a mobile strike force deployed that can withstand anything the Peacekeepers throw at us.”

“Major, why just two?” Santiago asked.

“Colonel, I have reviewed our current production schedule and I think I would lucky to get two, I would prefer four but I can live with two.”

Santiago leaned sideways in her chair and motioned for Major Stewart to come over.

“Major please get with Major Hudson after this meeting. I want to see two armored impact rover regiments built within the decade, is that clear.” The tone in her voice left little room for discussion.

“Thank you Colonel. That is all I have for today.” Hudson stepped down and Major Harza walked up to the podium and began his report. The reports continued through the morning and by noon they were done. Santiago left the briefing room and made her way to her office. When she sat down there was a light knock at the door.

“Enter.”

Captain Somersby walked into the room and stood at attention.

“Sit.”

Somersby quietly eased himself into the chair.

“Can it be done?”

“Yes. If we can allocate resources immediately and I can select the right people it can be done. The team will infiltrate the Peacekeeper headquarters and implant a virus into their computer system that will allow us to infiltrate their systems and will give us full access to all of their databases.”

“I have issued orders that Bunker 118 will supply the resources for you to train and equip your team. When they are ready to leave order them to the new base for pre-operational briefings and preparations. The new base will assume support duties for the team when they arrive.” Santiago leaned forward slowly. “You understand if the team is caught there has to be full deniability.”

“Yes Colonel, I understand.” Somersby stood up and saluted and left the room as quietly as he entered.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Construction, MY 2176

“Please. Allow me,” base manager Sarah Watkins said as she opened the door to the VIP Suite. The room inside was sumptuous to say the least with a heated marble floor and hand crafted dark wood furniture. Sweeping maroon curtains graced the windows, which looked out on at the wide fertile valley. At the near horizon was the sea.

The beginnings of a smile formed on Commander Zeta Phi’s face. He slowly walked into the room and ran an appreciative hand over the nearest velvet-covered chair. “This feels…nice.”

“Only the best for Morganite soldiers, Commander,” Sarah enthused. “We treat our people differently than the Cyborgs. Ours is a society that thrives on rewards for exceptional ability, and for exceptional service.”

The commander slowly looked up at Sarah. “Is what you propose an example of ‘exceptional service’?”

“Oh, yes,” Sarah said with a small laugh. “I can assure you that CEO Morgan himself has already authorized payment for services rendered. Commander, you and the people in your unit are very, very rich. I have to say I am somewhat envious.”

Sarah looked on as the Commander got another one of his blank stares. Metallic studs gleamed on his shaved head and, for a moment, his shining eyes were dull. It was disquieting for Sarah but she hid every bit of her apprehension. She was in the presence of a killer, and alien killer at that.

“Wealth has a different meaning for Cyborgs,” he said. “But this is nice.” His fingers ran up and down the velvet again.

Then he stopped and turned around. The change had been so sudden that Sarah almost started but held her ground.

“These are the specifications for the Impact technology,” he said as he handed her a small wafer. “You will be able to use them to build more like our infantry.” After she took the wafer he turned and ran his fingers over the velvet again and a shallow half smile formed on his face.

“I cannot stay in this place,” he said.

There was a long pause.

“Have some of this cloth brought us. The others will want to feel it. It feels good,” he said. “Lead me to the food dispensary. I am hungry.”

“Of course! Anything you want!” Sarah said as she backed out of the way.

Sarah kept smiling the whole way and making small talk, trying to draw him out. She failed. But, she had the wafer. The Commander could do what he wanted; the data was the key.

*~*~*~*

Sparta, MY 2177

>Blast Rifle Crag, Sparta – 2177, North watch tower<

Captain Carlos Sanchez was exhausted and worried. Over the past two turns mind worms had made repeated attacks against the base. They had destroyed the base’s terraformer and now they were hitting the base. His garrison unit, a full regiment, had been reduced down to 20%. Many of the infantrymen had been killed by the mind worms attack while others had suffered a more painful death, a slow death. Those soldiers that did not die during the attack from the mind blast but were just stunned found themselves easy prey for the mind worms offspring that burrowed into their heads through their ears. Some never even knew it had happened until blood started oozing from their eyes, mouth, ears and nose. New recruits were being trained but they were recruits not the battle hardened veterans he had brought with him. Suddenly a noise from behind him made him jump and he spun around and leveled his blast rifle. It was Commandant Robertson.

“Commandant, I could have killed you.” Sanchez said as he eased his blast rifle down and put it on safety.

“Sorry Captain, I just wanted to check in with you before I made my report to command.” Commandant Robertson walked towards him and stopped in front of the thick armored plas-glass windows. “Do you think they will hit us again? If the do can you hold?”

“Commandant, I do not know. We do not have the manpower to organize a scout team to check the area for worm signs. If they are out there and they hit us again this turn I doubt we can hold. Our chances are slim at best with the manpower we have.” Santiago replied as he stepped next to the commandant.

“I understand. No one can blame you in this affair, no one. Your actions during these attacks have been above and beyond the call of duty. You saved six men by risking your own life to retrieve them before the worms got them. I have made sure every report I sent back to command included your bravery and resourcefulness and leadership. This base would have been destroyed if it had not been for you.”

“Thank you commandant. If there is anyway possible I promise you I will defend this city to the last man.” Sanchez turned and put out his hand and Robertson took it and shook it.
>Sparta Command Center, Main conference room, Sparta 2177<

“Prokhor I want you to remove your scout rover NOW from our territory. We have tolerated your transport ship for some time as it scouted our seas but landing a full scout rover regiment is unacceptable!” Santiago stood up and slammed her fist down on the table.

Zakharov watched her for a minute via the video link as if hoping to see a “chink” in her armor. He knew he was in no position to force the issue. Somewhere out on the high seas the Spartans had a ship that could sink his transport in a blink of an eye. Also, his scout rovers would stand no chance in firefight against Spartan troops that had impact weapons and plasma armor.

“Okay Santiago, in the best interests of peace and to avoid a vendetta between your people and mine I will withdrawal my scouts.” Zakharov reached down and took a drink of water.

“I want them gone as soon as possible or I will unleash our secret weapon and then you will understand the power of Spartan might! Santiago OUT!” Mannsfield disconnected the link and turned towards Santiago.

“Do you think he will leave? Would you really unleash the alien battle robot against them?”

“Yes and yes.” Santiago sank back down into her chair and rubbed her forehead.

“Colonel, do you have a chance to review the request from the Commandant of Blast Rifle Crag?” Mannsfield asked as he pulled out his data pad.

“Yes, I did. Inform the commandant we have no spare troops to spare to reinforce his garrison. His people must hold. You can also tell him that I intend to award the legion of courage medal to his garrison commander. What is the status of the 1st L.E.R.P scouts?” Santiago began to rub her eyes now.

“Colonel, the 1st L.E.R.P. is still bogged down in the fungus. If they can make it to one of the monoliths they will be okay but if not they will perish soon. We have completed several children crèche programs, which should help our energy production. Also, since Bunker 118 is the only base to have a network node up and running at this time they have asked for you to attend the ceremony of the completion of the virtual world project.” Mannsfield continued to jot down notes while he spoke.

“Inform Commandant Fitz-Wallace III that I will not attend. Inform Director Boothe she is to attend in my place.” Santiago stood up and picked up her command baton and papers and handed them to her aide Longstreet who had been sitting quietly behind her along the wall.

“Colonel, I think you might reconsider once I tell you this. Bunker 118 is almost done with their colony pod but after that nothing has been scheduled for production but resources are still being allocated to Bunker 118, perhaps the commandant is involved in some scheme or graft?” Mannsfield stopped taking notes to look up at Santiago who stopped dead in her tracks.

“Mannsfield you need not concern yourself with that issue. I have it under control. Cease all further investigations, is that clear?” Santiago starred at him, her stern gaze not wavering a bit. “Is that clear!”

“Yes Colonel.”

Santiago turned and left followed by her aide. Mannsfield watched the door close behind them automatically and then put down his data pad and stylus. Something was up and she knew all about it. Why wouldn’t she tell him? Events seem to be happening faster and faster each turn and there was so much work to do. Mannsfield stood up and picked up his data pad and made for the door.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2177

The day was finally done and Morgan was taking a well-deserved extra hour off for a semi leisurely dinner, followed by a bath, massage, and a steam bath. In all, it was to be a perfect evening. The troubles with Aki had ceased to be a crisis, and basic weaponry was now in his grasp. It was more than satisfying to learn that both a impact infantry and rover could now be constructed without the usual prototyping; the 169 energy that had been required as ‘consideration’ for the Cyborg infantry to switch sides had been worth every joule, oh yes!

He pushed away his plate and the china clinked faintly against the crystal goblet. They were fair imitations of the best of Earth, but they were crude. Considering that Morganite society only had 25,000 citizens it was somewhat amazing that someone found the time to make these in any quantity or quality. Even the ‘silver’ was almost craftsman grade, even if it was obviously electroplated. Silver was still too valuable a commodity to waste on such a frivolous thing as a full silver service.

Morgan stood up and slipped on his red silk robe. The bath was waiting, as were his ‘attendants’, who were more than eager to ensure he was more than clean.

Yes, it is good to be king!

*~*~*~*

Temple of the Planet, southwest monolith – Sparta 2178

Captain Madars reached up and touched the monolith with his bare hand a flash of energy exploded throughout the area. It lasted for some time and while it was active all sense of time seemed to stop. However, after nearly eight minutes the energy wave ceased and Madars looked around. All of the rovers were repaired! His badly injured men were standing around healthy and sound. With the replacements that had caught up with them the unit was now at full strength.

“Now, lets go tackle that fungus tower!” Madars roared at his men who cheered him back in triumph!



>Bunker 118, central community center- Holo-tanks recreation center – Sparta 2187<

“On behalf of Colonel Santiago I welcome on citizens and civilians to enjoy the wonders and pleasures of these holo-tanks! It is just another achievement that our Spartan society has brought to you!” Boothe opened the doors and within minutes a flood of people came pouring into the facility. There were several others in the city that could be used but this unit was the main one that tied into the others and the network node. Boothe turned to Commandant Fitz-Wallace III.

“So Commandant what do you plan on building next that could top this?” Boothe asked in a lighthearted manner. Fitz-Wallace suddenly became stiff and formal. “Director Boothe I do not think you have any authority to ask such questions.”

“Commandant, I sit on the command council and I hold the directorship on production and civil planning. I think I have the authority.” Boothe responded in an offended manner.

“No Director you do not.” Fitz-Wallace turned and walked down from the podium area and towards the command center leaving a very puzzled Boothe wondering what in the world could be going on here.

[Hydro]

Morgan Industries, MY 2178

Rothchild looked over the development plans, touch-activating the sequential datastreams where he needed more information. As he was scrolling through he said, “It seems rather infrastructure heavy, sir. Most bases have finished recreation commons and are working on recycling tanks.” He looked up at Morgan, who was staring directly at him. “The Board of Directors recommended a steady expansion of colony pods, which will move south with the formers. They are going to demand an explanation.”

“And they shall have one,” the CEO stated. “Several factors interviened. First, there is the continuing war with the Cyborgs. Although the immediate threat has passed, it did highlight how we have neglected our infrastructure and that we were spread very thin. In our current state we had difficulty defending our core and immediate perimeter bases. I shudder to think what would happen if a Cyborg force landed at the southern continent.

“Second, we still have instability problems. As we grow this will only get more acute, even if the Human Genome Project and the construction of recreation commons mitigated the effects significantly. A negative side effect was that these bases were producing a shockingly low amount of industrial output. A recycling tank can go a long way to mitigating this problem.

“Third, the Cyborg attacks disrupted our terraforming efforts. Thankfully none of our terraformers were damaged or destroyed before we induced the Cyborg infantry to have a change of heart. And, after the threat had passed, the manager of Construction asked that we construct a sensor, forest, and farm to enhance their productivity. They are on the front line, and I thought it best to agree to her wishes. Only now are some of the formers on their way south.”

Rothchild was taking a few notes as Morgan spoke. He was due to have a morning planning meeting with the Board, and they like specifics.

“A colony was completed this last year at Distribution, and it should set up next year. We need have roads, sensors, and basic improvements complete so the pod doesn’t waste so much time in transit. This will take time.

“Lastly, it makes no sense to have our far bases create colony pods. The will take an unseemly amount of time in transit. Instead I have worked with their managers to construct basic infrastructure, and they will then work on enhancing growth, more infrastructure, defense, and at least one Project.”

Morgan stopped. “Is that enough for the meeting?”

“Yes, sir. Quite enough. I can’t say they’ll disagree with you, but they will undoubtedly have suggestions.”

“That is what they are paid for, and any who don’t would likely be dismissed,” the CEO stated. “Let me know what their positions are, and when we will have our meeting. I am booked for the next few days. Check with my calendar.”

*~*~*~*

>Thrace, Temple of the Planet, Southern monolith area, Sparta-2179


Captain Madars and his rovers were about to attack the fungal tower when an urgent call came through over the command frequency.

“This is Commandant Alexander Primus requesting immediate assistance from Captain Madars, OVER?”

“This is Madars, OVER”

“Captain, I need your assistance. I am the new Commandant for the colony-research city to be built in the temple of the Planet. We are on route to your area when our long-range sensors detected a spore launcher creature. We need for your team to dispose of it. The creature is three sectors away from your current position, just on the eastern side of the temple of the planet, over.”

“Confirmed, we will move as fast as we can to interdict the creature. We still have to move through the fungus so expect us to be some time. I suggest you move more west by north to give the creature a wide berth, over”

“Confirmed and thanks. We would have requested help from the garrison at Blast Rifle Crag but they have been weakened from constant attack by worms. Suggest you take caution in reaching the creature as to avoid contact with other creatures, over.”

“Roger, over and out.” Madars closed the channel.

Damn, what a mess. He would have to break camp and move eastward to help the colonists just when they were so close.

“This is Captain Madars to all rovers and base camp, cease all current operations. We are moving east to destroy a spore launcher. OUT.”

Madars slumped back into his chair as the driver turned the rover about and began to move eastward. It was a long trek due to the fungus, too long. If they got delayed too much the spore launcher could wreak havoc on the bases and improvements they had made.



>Thrace, Temple of the planet, eastern monolith area, Sparta – 2179<


Madar’s rovers had made good time and they were about to pass by the eastern line of monoliths when the emergency communication channel sounded.

“Captain, this is rover five, we have contact with a mind worm request assistance, over”

“Confirmed rover five help is on the way.” Madars flipped a few switches so he could contact all the rovers in his command. “This is captain Madar to all rovers. Converge on rover five he has made contact with a mind worm. Activate trance shields.” Madars put his trance helmet as did the other crew members in the command vehicle and then he activated the rover’s trance shield. The driver accelerated to full attack speed and it only took 12 minutes to reach the area of rover five. Several other rovers were attacking the worm already and he could see more on the way. The gunner began to fire into the creature and it became clear very quickly that the creature was not going to put up much of a fight. Even without all of the rovers the 1st L.E.R.P finished off the worm in record time.

“This is Madars to all rovers, continue east and we will stop at a monolith to restore ourselves before we go into combat with the spore launcher, good work everyone, Madars out.” Yes, it had been a good day but it was also another delay.


>Macedonia, mountain area three sectors west of Fort Ticonderoga, Sparta – 2179<

Captain Mars just finished giving his latest report to the command and it was a good one. At least he had discovered the reason why the Peacekeepers had prospered so much. Almost the entire are east of Fort Ticonderoga was extremely fertile and had an abundance of rain and good soil. If the Spartans had landed here they could have fed their people easily with no problems at all. It made him angry that Lal and his people had somehow obtained this area rather than the Spartans. Well, it wouldn’t be his forever that was for sure. Two more colony pods were in route to this area and would be built on their side of the border. Once that was done a good chunk of this area would be theirs.

“Captain, I have response from command, they want us to move southwest to provide escort for the colony pods and security for the terraformers.” Mars’ radioman reported.

“Inform command we are in route.” Mars tightened his belt; it would be a bumpy ride down the mountain.

*~*~*~*

Near Morgan Construction, MY 2179

“It’s a bloody circus,” Dietrich said, “and they’re the head clown.”

Elizabeth, known as Liz or ‘Lizard’ to everyone in her unit, looked over at her scout mate, annoyed as usual. “They’re formers. Of course they’re slow and ponderous. Just be glad you don’t have their job.”

“Yah,” he said as he adjusted his shredder for the third time this minute, evidently trying to look more macho with his ‘weapon’ displayed for all to see. “Bunch of limp-wristed, concentrate sucking civilians!”

Liz didn’t even respond to that. Fred had had a bug up his butt ever since he had met the Cyborg Commander Zeta Phi. Now there was a real soldier, even if he was creepy. His impact siege gun made their little shredders look like cheese graters, which they were. They were OK for dealing with crowds, or with worms, but not much else. Against the Commander and his ilk they didn’t have a chance. Liz accepted that. Fred didn’t.

Fred made a few more exaggerated rude gestures the former crews, who were many kilometers away, would never see. Well, if that made him feel better then that was fine. Three formers were working their way south, and they had been assigned to ride herd, both as escort and to coordinate their activities. Just to their south was an expanse of unexplored fungus. Well, it was semi explored. A Morganite scout team and Cyborg team had been there decades ago, but they had all died in a worm infestation. That had not been pretty. Apparently the Cyborg had stirred up some worms and then been unable to deal with the onslaught. The Morganite crew had been caught trying to find a defensive position in the fungus, which was a hopeless proposition.

Liz had an idea. She activated her communication stud. “Scout Unit Delta Three to Construction.”

“Construction here,” came the immediate reply. Elizabeth recognized 2nd Lieutenant Sammy Wilk’s voice right away.

“Formers are almost in position. I have a suggestion for HQ regarding worm defense. Have the formers construct a sensor at the north end of the fungal wall. That will give us advance warning if anything is coming, and maybe scare them off. We need a reply very soon or the formers will be entering the fungus, likely within weeks.”

“Roger Delta Three. Good idea, Lieutenant. Will forward, priority. On my authority instruct the former crews to beginning immediately. I’ll clear up the paperwork, and I’ll put your name on it.”

Liz paused. “Thanks,” she said.

“No problem,” Sammy said. “Good luck. Out”

SFS WARRIOR – 12 sectors north of Sparta Command, SPARTA –2180


“Captain, our supplies are at the level where we might need to think about turning back. If we continue our search we will either have to reduce rations or send out a scouting party for food stuffs;” The quartermaster laid a paper in front of the captain detailing the exact amounts of supplies they had left.

“Thank you quartermaster, I appreciate your concern but we will find civilization soon, I am sure of it. Somewhere near here has to be the enclaves of the Cyborgs, Morganites or University. We just made landfall a turn ago and we will continue our search of the coastline. For now we will keep the men on full rations until I inform you different. Dismissed.” Captain Johansen saluted the quartermaster and who promptly saluted back and then turned and left the cabin.

Johansen looked down at the map and began to plot his course along with the checking of the days against the amount of foodstuffs they had left. Four more turns, that’s all the food they had left at full rations, perhaps 6 if they halved it. Johansen did not want to do that he needed his men sharp and alert. He really was convinced that some of the other factions had to be along this coastline, they had to be. The continent to the north was huge and the other factions had to be somewhere.


Terraformer crew #4 northwest of Fort Ticonderdoga, SPARTA – 2180

The terraformers had gotten use to the Peacekeeper soldiers watching them from across the border to the north. They had been here for nearly four turns and they had just completed their work in clearing the area of large boulders and rock formations. It had been hard work but farms, trees stands or solar collector units could not be built here. The crew chief of terraformer # 3 had just informed them that Sparta Command had given them the green light to begin the sensor array. As soon as the first sensor discs had been unloaded they noticed that the Peacekeepers had noticed as well. The soldiers along the border began running to their command tents, probably to radio the news back to headquarters.

“Stan, do you think they will get mad?”

“Oliver, I don’t know. If the erection of this sensor tower does not stir up the hornets nest I bet you 100 credits the site of the colony pod that arrives here in two turns will send them into orbit.”

“I wish I could see it but as soon as we get this down its westward for us and more rock clearing I hear.” Stan dropped some wire on ground and began to get more.

“Well, if they want any part of us I am sure the Colonel will tear them to bits.”

Sparta Command Headquarters, office of Colonel Santiago, Sparta – 2180

“Mannsfield I was shocked to hear that you made this agreement but after reviewing it I have to say you did an excellent job in negotiating this exchange with the Cyborgs.” Santiago leaned back in her chair smiling.

“Yes Colonel it was more of surprise to me than anything. To think that they would trade standard plasma armor for the more advance pulse armor design is beyond belief. With pulse armor our soldiers will be even more protected against enemy defenses than before. And its not like we traded them a technology they did not already have.” Mannsfield put the complete agreement on her desk.

“I appreciate your initiative Mannsfield. I want leaders and this is the type of command decision I like to see. What is even better is that we can now trade the specifications for plasma armor to Zakharov for some other technology and we still have a lead in armor design. Well, done again.” Santiago stood up and saluted him.

Mansfield quickly replied in kind. “Thank you again Colonel.”

*~*~*~*

Morgan Collections, MY 2180

“Do you feel it?” Sharon asked as she looked around. “I think we’re being watched.”

Paul didn’t even look over from the controls of the harvester he was driving. “You’re just being paranoid. We’re out here in the sticks, with no one for kilometers. North of us is the remaining fungus, and there is forest all around. I suppose there might be some birds watching you, or maybe one of those Chiron mud skippers that seem to like Earth pine forests pretty well.” His tone was gentle, but mocking.

Sharon took the point and was quiet. Still, she couldn’t help feeling that there was something out there, something malevolent, or if not malevolent then certainly alien. “How long until we’ve gotten enough to meet our energy collection quota?”

“Another two days at our present rate,” he said. “We’re able to get much more energy than normal, and the bosses like that a lot. Keep your eyes open for good sources, you know what they look like.”

“Yeah, I know,” she said. Their training several years ago had been intensive and thorough. It was not difficult to find and secure the bountiful energy sources in the forest; it simply took time and patience. Normally Sharon had lots of patience, but not today. Now she was too uneasy.

A flicker of motion caught her eye to the left, near the horizon. It looked like the a low grayish cloud in the increasing dusk.

EEEEERRRRRRRRKKKKKKK

“Oh, god!” Sharon yelled. “Turn around! Now!”

Paul didn’t get it and started at her outburst. “Now, what’s the problem? There’s nothing out there….”

“Yes there is! Turn around, now! Worms!” Sharon grabbed Paul’s arm and he almost lost control of their service hauler. He could feel her terror now, and the look in her face said it all. What cinched it was that he started to feel tendrils of fear creep into his mind – fragments of old nightmares he had forgotten long ago, flashes of color, disquieting low chittering sounds.

He didn’t hesitate. The service rover heeled and broke into an impromptu 180-degree turn, bouncing over the unimproved terrain. “Call base,” he croaked as he fought with the steering.

Sharon nodded between the sharp bumps, and then activated the comm stud. “Collections 23 to Collections. Collections 23 to Collections.”

“Yes, 23,” a voice said.

“There are worms in the forest north of Collections! Get the scout teams, now!” she yelled. “Returning to base!”

[Hydro]

Command center –Sparta Command, Sparta – 2181

“Colonel, I suggest that we proceed with caution. The Peacekeepers have built a perimeter defense field around their headquarters which might cause the infiltration team some problems in gaining access.” Somersby pointed at the photo on Santiago’s desk that showed the new defensive structure.

“Can your team still get in?” Santiago asked again with a slight tone of frustration.

“Yes, I believe they still can get in. It seems that the Peacekeepers use a magnetic card for identification purposes and we have created a card that when “swiped” through the reader will link with the computer and gain access. However, the Peacekeepers frequently reissue cards so we have no idea of what they look like. As long as the team members are not asked to show their cards we should be okay. However, once inside they will have materials with them to alter the outward appearance of the cards once they know what the current cards look like.” Somersby reached into his pocket and handed Santiago one of the cards.

“They don’t post security teams throughout their city like we do?” Santiago continued to look at the card while holding it up to the light.

“No, they don’t that’s why they rely on this system. They have a democratic political system so everyone is supposedly committed to the preservation and welfare of the Peacekeeper society. It should be very easy once we are in to infiltrate the networks they have and implant the virus.” Somersby reached across the desk and took back the card.

“Excellent work. How goes the training?”

“Good, they should be ready in three turns and then it will take another three to reach the Peacekeeper base. Our only major concern is lack of intelligence on what troops are there and if they Peacekeepers have any anti-espionage units standing by to protect their base. If that is the case all of our work has been for nothing.”

“I will take care of that next turn. The 1st scout/rovers will be ordered to make a cross border incursion into Peacekeeper territory and they will try to get next to our near their Headquarters. Once there they can question civilians and send in observers to check the composition of the forces there. The cover story will be that the field commander got over zealous in his duties and forgot to respect the border. It should be easy to pull back the rovers if Lal demands their extradition.” Santiago stood up indicating that the meeting was over. “Good luck to your men Somersby.”

“Thank you Colonel. Let me know as soon as possible what forces they have there.” Somersby saluted and released his salute as soon as Santiago saluted back and then left the room.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2181

Morgan read over the reports. Setbacks, more setbacks!

First, the defender at Collections had attacked and failed to kill the little mindworm that was threatening the city. Of course, a defender had been moved from a nearby city to ensure its safety, but that meant that a new defender had to be created, and that cost valuable construction time. The impromptu defender survived the attack of the 90 percent damaged worm easily, but it was distressing – they had been so close, and if they had won there would have been a boon of planet pearls.

It also seemed the Cyborgs weren’t the rubes he thought they might be, or hoped they might be. The transport full of espionage teams was not in position, and it seems that Aki outfitted her city with a defensive probe and blocked the landing area with an impact infantry unit. What to do? It was a dangerous area since the entire sea was covered with fungus, and one false move could cause one of those nasty sea vector mindworms to be generated. That would spell doom for the transport and the teams inside. In reality it was an easy decision – wait. Perhaps the infantry team would leave, and the defending probe team, too. When the infantry left the decision would be harder: a full-scale espionage attack to eliminate the defender, then penetrate the Cyborg datalinks. That was likely to result in the death and capture of two probe teams, since even if they won the remaining team would be summarily destroyed by the Cyborgs. A third probe team was on the way, but this was getting expensive. Morgan mused: so much for the plans for an easy infiltration and energy and technology theft, when it could be arranged.

Other news was better. A recreation commons had been built at Interstellar, so now it could have the social stability to have more than one mineral a year in production. A recycling tank had been built too, but Morgan didn’t recall off hand which base completed it. That didn’t matter, really. What did matter is that basic infrastructure was quickly falling into place, and that the second wave of colony pod expansion would start soon. At the same time the core bases were finishing network nodes, spiking research nicely, and starting Projects. The eleventh Morganite base had been build a few years ago, and it would be finishing its recycling tank soon. Both it and Construction were very promising bases since one had a mineral lode and the other a nutrient lode – these were keys.

One last irritation: Morganite science had given him another ‘boon’; something called ‘Progenitor Psych’. What in the world was that? Sure, it gave extra food in sea kelp, that that was completely useless right now! This was the second time a rather useless technology had been pried from the pointy-headed scientists. It was all so infuriating since every advance was achieved alone since neither Aki nor Zak were forthcoming with technology trades.

Morgan put the report down, and tried to focus on other things, like guidance for former activities. Many were running out of things to do. That was a good thing, but it didn’t make up for those blasted scientists!

*~*~*~*

Office of Colonel Corazon Santiago, SPARTA – 2182

Director Morgan,

I have at last obtained your communication frequency from Professor Prokhor Zakharov of the University at some expense to us but I feel that it is in our best interests to open negotiations with you. I have little information about your or your faction since Zakharov wanted and additional charge for those files but I subsequently declined. From my own resources I have determined that you were not listed on the crew manifest so I am puzzled as to how you came to be aboard the Unity. If you or any of your people were involved in the sabotage of that craft I should warn you that any hope of positive relations with the Spartan Federation will be zero. We Spartans value duty, honor and loyalty above all virtues and our observance to a strict military lifestyle. Since landing on Chiron we have devoted ourselves to the pursuit of the ancient Spartan military societal code. We work in unison as one nation behind a single goal under the strict disciple that a military lifestyle affords. I am aware of several other factions on planet and I must warn you of one of them, the Cyborgs. They are not to be trusted! They have twice tried to contact us to pursue relations in order to secure our military support against you via a sneak attack. We have twice decline. We will not be party to any sneak attack. Initially we were unaware of the Cyborgs hostile nature and as a result we did exchange certain technology with them. In order to correct the insult the Cyborgs inflicted upon us we would be willing to “even the odds” since we have no interest in seeing them subdue you. If you agree to an exchange of some type we will be willing to transmit to you the following technologies:

Non-linear mathematics
High-energy chemistry
Polymorphic software

Also, we would be willing to “gift” you as a sign of our good intentions a technology to help better defend your people from the insidious attacks of the mind worms. I have pledged my people and myself to the destruction and eradication of the wind worm/fungus menace. We have uncovered many ancient ruins of a previous life form of high intelligence that once dominated this planet. But for some unknown reason their civilization fell. It is my belief it is due to the mind worms and fungus. Perhaps they lacked the technology or perseverance to destroy the menace that faced them.

I also will inform you that Pravin Lal our former leader has survived and now is the leader of a very sizable faction to our east. He is very insistent on rebuilding the old United Nations order under his guidance something that I am opposed to.

Lastly, once you transmit a list of possible technologies or suggestions for other compensation packages we will review it and then we can complete the transaction if all is acceptable to both parties. Regardless we will send to you next turn the trance protection technology as a gift of friendship that we hope you will take and honor. We have also offered a truce to you and your people until such time we can determine if further military or political arrangements are warranted.

Colonel Corazon Santiago
Spartan Federation

Sparta Command

Main Conference Room, Sparta Command, SPARTA-2182

“Colonel if you read my report you will see that our current economic system is not as effective as we had hoped it would be.” Director Boothe activated the main screen and several graphic displays began to appear that illustrated her argument. “The main issue we suffer with is inefficacy. My organization simply is not effective in coordinating the industrial capacity of the entire Spartan Federation. We do achieve an increase in industrial capacity but the waste we generate is strangling our society in almost every measure. A solution of sorts to our dilemma is now available to us. I was contacted by the former leaders of the industrial conglomerates, prior to the nationalization of their factories, that we worked closely with us and they have forwarded some proposals for our review.”

“Director Boothe, if we were to add more people or create another department would that help?” Santiago asked as she began to leaf through the proposal.

“No Colonel, it would not. In fact, I would guess it would just make matters worse. Even with the children crèche program our society struggles to produce the material we need. With the help of the industrial leaders I have reviewed their proposal and amended a counter proposal.” Boothe began to hand out another spiral bound book to the each of the command staff. “What I suggest is the following. First, we switch back to a free market economy. This will increase the effectiveness of our industrial capacity and improve our energy resources. With the addition of more children crèche programs we can still maintain a good population rate and have the benefits of a positive production system.”

“Director Boothe I do not think I need to remind you that such a system would also create a lot of social disorder and chaos. Chaos and disorder would not be beneficial to the overall health of our society and it is contradictory the very principals of Spartan life.” Major Mannsfield asked as he stopped on a page that caught his interest.

“Yes you are correct Lieutenant Colonel. However, that is where our agreement comes into effect. As I said I was contacted by a group of former industrial leaders and they have all agreed in exchange for Colonel Santiago’s pledge to return to a free market society they would accept additional public and personnel restrictions. These restrictions would allow us to control the civilians within our society so they do not fall into social unrest. Of course our citizens would never be an issue, just the civilians.”

“Director Boothe I am still unclear as to the motivation of these businessmen. Please clarify.” Santiago asked tersely.

“Colonel, simply put these industrial leaders for the most part are civilians that represent former citizens who as veterans pledged their lives for the protection of our Federation. Now that they are retired soldiers, they are citizens, who only wish to enjoy the benefits of their years of loyal service to the Federation. Civilians of course will continue to work and support the Federation and they will earn a fair wage but our citizens feel they deserve more. Also, a select handful of favored civilians would also enjoy a greater stature and rewards as well. Our citizens as former soldiers understand that certain personnel liberties might have to be sacrificed in order for the larger good.” Boothe watched Santiago intently hoping to catch some glimpse of her intentions.

“How much would this cost to prepare the changes you require?" Santiago asked.

“Over 135 mega credits.” Boothe replied calmly.

“We don’t have near enough credits to even begin this change then so the issue is moot. Our current treasury is 85 mega credits so it will be some time before we can afford the change. I have no intention of making a half step move and incurring further social or economic disorder. When we have 135 mega credits then we can discuss the issue again.” Santiago quickly replied with a slight tone of sarcasm in it.

“Colonel, we could amend our offer to Director Morgan and ask for energy credits in compensation for the technology. With that funding we could then afford to make the change. I doubt he has much to offer as it is. We can set an amount of 75 energy credits per technology as an exchange rate. We would still have many more technologies to trade with at a later date.” Boothe quickly replied.

“That is then, this is now. Until we have the resources to make the exchanges the discussion is done. Now on to the next issue, I want to commend Lt. Colonel Mannsfield on the shrewd exchanges he was able to make with the University, Peacekeepers and Cyborgs. With two technologies we gained five! That is excellent work. Let us hope that our scientists can continue to work harder in order that we can continue our leadership in technology. Now on to the next issue.”

Director Boothe only half listened to the Santiago as she continued to discuss military issues and deployments. She knew from the numbers that all the speeches in the world would not allow them to remain as the technological leaders. Scientists were leaving daily to pursue more worthwhile projects or areas of study and as result Spartan science suffered. No, she needed to move things along. Perhaps if she talked to her business contacts they could approach Director Morgan with the subject, being fellow businessmen they understood the importance of this change, and perhaps they get the ball rolling. Yes, and of course she was sure her business friends would once again appreciate her concern for the greater glory of Sparta.

[Hydro]

Morgan Industries, MY 2182

Coronal Santiago,

I am delighted to hear from another survivor of the Unity disaster. As you may know, my former company was the primary contractor responsible for the design and construction of this splendid craft. Initially my interest was purely financial, since this was a lucrative UN contract, perhaps the largest that organization ever successfully enacted. As my involvement grew I came to understand the true value of the Unity experiment. It would allow humans to finally spread their seed to the stars, and in doing so create a new society without all the baggage of Earth. I also realized, as Unity reached completion, that the UN was finally and irrevocably losing its tenuous hold, and that Earth was spiraling out of control, fatally so. The UN proved weak and helpless in its efforts. As such, I arranged to become a member of the crew. True, it was not exactly legal, but I did have the tacit agreement of a few key construction managers. You should also know that my companies financed Unity long after the United Nations was unable to pay. I could have ceased payment, and the Unity project would have stopped. But, by this point, I was committed intellectually and emotionally. Unity had to go on – it was the only hope for the survival of humanity. Due to this situation I felt no guilt in securing passage, since it was for services rendered, so to speak.

Your assessment of the Cyborg’s nature is completely correct. They have been unfailingly hostile since we first met of 50 years ago, and their conduct stands in direct contradiction to their purported logical nature. Their actions have been nothing but illogical. Less than a decade ago they launched an unprovoked attack on our holdings. We had done nothing to warrant their enmity, I can assure you. The attack was repulsed, and some cost and benefit to us. It was a salient lesson, and it proved what I had long suspected: the Cyborgs are a dangerous faction that needs to be contained. We are working toward that goal at this time, and will prosecute these efforts to the best of our ability.

The Morganite Board of Directors would be more than happy to discuss any technology trade you might deem prudent. In particularly, your trance technology would be an extreme help in our efforts against the unfailing malevolence of the mindworms that infest this planet. In the last year one of our cities suffered such an attack, and it was beaten off at some loss. We have also lost formers and a few scouts in the more distance past, and your trance protection might have saved us no small amount of loss. Offering this as a gift is extremely generous of you, and you have earned our gratitude and respect.

It seems we only have one technology that might be of use to you: Progenitor Psych. I was at something of a loss when my scientists developed this, but I am told it will allow for better harvesting of sea kelp resources. If this is of interest to you I would be willing to trade this technology for one of the technologies you have listed. Beyond this, I am willing to offer energy credits to compensate your peoples for the efforts. I am sure we can work out a suitable amount and schedule of payments. At this point I would recommend 50 megacredits per technology.

I had always wondered if any of the Unity command staff survived the disaster. Of course I know Pravin Lal, and his skills as a medical officer are well known, as is his dedication to the ideals of the former United Nations. It does not surprise me that he has modeled his society on that old Earth bureaucracy. I am pleased that he and his people survived and, from what you have implied, that he is doing well.

In acknowledgment of your kind offers I am forwarding to you a counter offer. I am willing to enter into a treaty of friendship with the Spartan Federation. I know this would incur significant organization costs on your part, and that your society would be taxed in manpower and direct costs. In deference to this, I am willing to offset these costs with a direct payment to you of 50 megacredits, payable immediately upon the acceptance of this treaty. Consider this a gesture of goodwill and faith that we have in your peoples, a reciprocation of the generous actions you have had toward us.

I am sure we can work together, and look forward to your reply.

CEO Nwabudike Morgan
Chair, Morganite Board of Directors

*~*~*~*

Nwabudike got the last review comments on the letter and adjudicated the various suggestions. On the wholes they were positive, although one Board member expressed some concern at the tone of the Spartan’s letter. It was undeniable that the Spartan Federation’s offer was generous, and there was no reason not to pursue further contacts. They could very well be lucrative trading partners in the future, and that was a desirable outcome. It was also important to cultivate a trading relationship, since the Cyborgs and University had not been forthcoming in technology trades. Coronal Santiago seemed to be willing to discuss the matter, and he was determined to make it worth their while.

That was happy news. It was not so happy that the Cyborg’s infantry and probe team had not moved. Morgan had reluctantly authorized the transport to move deeper into the fungus. Each sector of movement increased the risk that an isle of the deep would attack it, and if it was attacked there was no question that it would be destroyed. It was a significant investment and it would be a sore loss if it was destroyed. A larger problem was getting the transport back, and Morgan saw no hope in it moving both to and from its target. Next time their plans would not assume stupidity on the part of the Cyborgs, and the transport would be constructed in open water where it could move more freely - so much for grand plans.

After reading the message to Santiago and her Spartan Federation one more time he finalized the text, secured a coded interlock on the pre-approved 50 megacredits, and sent it on the communication frequency. In a short time there would be a reply, but in the meantime there was a faction to guide.

*~*~*~*

Office of Colonel Corazon Santiago, SPARTA – 2183


Director Morgan,

I have attached to this transmission three technologies: trance protection, plasma armor and impact weapons schematics. We will accept 50 energy credits for the schematics for impact weapons and 60 energy credits for plasma armor. The schematics to build trance protection modules is yours with a promise that you will do everything within your power to destroy the worms and fungus that infest the planet.

We refuse your offer of a treaty at this time. It has been our policy NOT to enter into any treaties or alliances until we have clear picture of all surviving members from the Unity mission. Once we have a clear understanding of the geo-political situation at that time we will then entertain offers of alliances. So at this time we can only accept a truce. You may agree to these terms or not, it is your choice. If you wish to resend the 50 energy credits again along with another 60 energy credits for technology we will consider the negotiations complete and will approve the transaction.

I would also entertain the exchange of map files at this time as well. Some time ago we dispatched an attack foil northwards to search for other survivors. While searching they encountered a sea version of the land mind worm and were heavily damaged. If you could offer a safe harbor for them to rest and refit that would be compensation enough for the trance protection module technology we have given you.

Colonel Corazon Santiago
Supreme Commander of the Spartan Federation

Sparta Command

Office of Franklin Benz CEO of First Star Manufacturing, Hero’s Waypoint, Sparta 2183

Director and CEO Nwadbudike Morgan,

I greet you and your consortium with admiration and praise. I have attached a list of other industrialists like myself that would like to strengthen economic bonds with your enterprises. It was good news for all of us leaders of industry that individuals of like minds came together to form a new society. There are excellent business opportunities for a shrewd man like yourself but you have to be aware of certain restrictions in doing business in Sparta. Under Spartan law only citizens are allowed to own property and have a legal voice in the operations of government. Myself along with many of my fellow industrialists are simple civilians who are allowed to collect wealth but cannot own the means of production or land. However, that does not preclude us from buying land or investing in operations in your land as partners.

I wanted to close with a bit of insider news that you might find valuable. Colonel Santiago is currently considering a change in our current inefficient economic system to a free market system. I am sure if that system could be adopted our fortunes would grow along with our mutual friendship. I am sure any assistance you can “give” to Colonel Santiago would help her see the merits of a free market system.

Once again I am so very glad to hear that you and your people are well a prospering and let us commit ourselves today to building a new and stronger business alliance.


Franklin Benz
CEO of First Star Manufacturing

The premier leaders in weapon defense technology
Making the world safe for a new tomorrow!

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2183

Coronal Santiago,

I am pleased to accept your generous offer of 110 megacredits for the armor, trance, and weaponry technologies. In particular, the trance and armor technologies will be most welcome, and will allow our society some degree of safety in a dangerous world. We ‘acquired’ the equivalent of impact weaponry from the Cyborg’s abortive attack on us, but having the actual specifications for Impact weaponry will be helpful, if for no other reason that we will not have to research this ourselves. It is my earnest hope that the 110 megacredits will be of benefit to your Federation. After all, agreements need to be mutually beneficial.

Although I’d prefer otherwise, I understand your desire to keep above entangling alliances. For the time being it will have to be good enough to know that there is another rational faction leader with whom we can converse with, and with whom we can share the fruits of each other societies to the betterment of both. Perhaps in time we can grow our trust and you will feel comfortable forming a friendship treaty. Until that point I hope you will understand that the Board will decline to share our world map. As much as I’d like to see more of Chiron, the Board on a narrow vote did not deem it prudent to share our map with a faction with which we do not share a friendship treaty.

I was distressed to hear of your damaged foil, and please accept my best wishes on their safe return. However, I do not see how we can help your valiant crew unless we would have a full alliance. Considering your reluctance to form a friendship treaty it would be unlikely that our ports would be open to the degree you wish. Your crews are free to visit and partake of our hospitality, but I think the logistics of repair might be more than what is possible at the moment.

Again, I am pleased we have come to an understanding and look forward to our next meeting. I will be sure to let you know if we make a technological breakthrough that you may be interested in, and I trust you will consider doing the same in kind.

Respectfully yours,
CEO Nwabudike Morgan

*~*~*~*

Mr. Franklin Benz,

I was pleasantly surprised to receive your letter, and was pleased to hear that your Federation is considering a Free Market system of economics. I am sure we can both agree that an aggressive and competitive economic model is what will allow your people and your societies to prosper. The fruits of industry are not lightly turned aside, and I am sure that an advanced economic model is the key to a more productive and efficient society.

Unfortunately Coronal Santiago has chosen not to enter into a friendship and trade agreement with our faction. As you can guess, I was quite disappointed, since without a friendship agreement there can effectively be no real trade between our peoples. This is unfortunate since both would profit from such an exchange, especially when both parties are using such an advanced market economic system.

Until the time that the Coronal deems it appropriate to enter into such an agreement I’m afraid all we can really talk about is setting the groundwork. This is no small task, and it would serve us both well to determine what actions might persuade the Spartan Federation leadership that trade links are both appropriate and mutually beneficial.

Yours truly,
CEO Nwabudike Morgan