"Crossfire Tales"

[Raging Mouse]

Location: U.N. Headquarters, Commissioner Pravin Lal's Office


"I- can't- get- no... Sa- tis- FAC- TION... mmm-mmm-mmm-mmmmmmm, mmm-mmm-mmm-mmmm..."

Lal simply stares at Lieutenant General Zhu. Lady Jane gazes at the roof, with raised eyebrows. For myself, I am looking at the floor, fiddling with my moustache to hide my grin -that is threatening to turn into laughter- from Lal. It's unheard of for Zhu to be anything except serious or slightly sarcastic at most. This display of humour is doubly effective thanks to it's unexpectedness; too bad it is entirely unappropriate at the moment.

"General Zhu, that was not funny."

"Yes it was", Lady Jane mumbles through clenched teeth. Zhu smiles, a bit embarrassed.

"I am sorry, Commissioner. I have studied twentieth century culture, and this bit just popped into my head. Please excuse me. But you must realize that this text is ridiculous!"

Lal frowns and shakes his head. "There is nothing in this message that is ridiculous or funny in any way. On the contrary, this is a nightmare. Miriam is asking me to take a stand in the Believer-University Vendetta by renouncing my treaty with the University. What is truly awful about this is that some University diplomats seem to suggest we do the same against the Believers! They both want me to tip the balance of this war to their favor, at least psychologically, and if I refuse our relationships will surely deteriorate."

Zhu nods. "Then you must say no to at least one of them as politely as you possibly can. Remember, she is showing you a carrot as well."

"Yes; their future assistance with the Hive. Madness! I don't want either conflict to spread more that they already have. If I agree to this we might end up arranged into two axises, with us and the Believers on one side, and the Hive and the University on the other. And if I side with the university it is the Believers who might side with the Hive. In addition, we are currently in a military co-operation with the university to find and punish the persons responsible for the poisoning of University Base." Lal shudders. "I will not support any action that could have such widespread detrimental effects to the stability of Planet."

Zhu looks annoyed. "Well you can't both eat the cake and keep it, commissioner."

Lal assumes his distant gaze that we know so well. Eventually, he purses his lips. "It's bad, but I think I see a way out. For now, the wishes of the University have not been expressed officially, so we will deal with that problem when it arises. As for the Believers, I intend to dictate a letter and I want you to listen. Here goes." He fiddles with the controls on his desk, and a red light indicates a recorder is activated. He is silent for a moment, and then clears his throat.

"Best greetings, sister Miriam of the Believers. I hope your religious practices are proceeding to your.." Lal hesitates and glares at Zhu. "...wishes. I have considered your request, and have come to a conclusion: Were I to scrap my current treaty with the University, I would also have to cancel the treaty that the Peacekeepers have with your faction as well. To do otherwise would signal that I support either side in this conflict, and I do not wish to do so. I must admit I am also concerned with doctor Zakharov's unethical research, but I still wish to maintain friendly relations with him, as I do with you. Your concern for the lives of the University citizens is well placed, but would sound more true in my ears had I not known of your habit of dealing out death for the slightest break of the rules in the Holy Bible as you currently interpret them."

Lal pauses for a moment.

"As for your offered assistance with the Hive, know that I am maintaining the vendetta out of necessity. Your help would escalate the conflict, and possibly prolong it as well; therefore I thank you for the suggestion, but fear I must decline. I am most honoured by your offer, however, and hope we can arrange some other form of cooperation, but in a less violent manner. You have my best wishes."

Lal stops the recording and lets his gaze wander over each of us in turn. "Well, what do you think?"

Zhu nods. "It's good once you remove that comment about her bible-thumping. That one could result in a surprise attack if I know her well." Lady Jane nods and smiles grimly.

"Very well." Lal edits out the sentence, and plays back the message. "Anything else?"

I sigh. "It would be interesting to know how the Believers managed to discover Superstring Theory ahead of all projected speeds."

Zhu looks at me and winks. "I would guess that Miriam keeps a datapad of Macchiavelli's 'The Prince' next to the Bible under her pillow."

I smile and nod. "Yeah. I guess so."

Even Lal smiles slightly. "Not that she has to. I think all the important bits are present in the Bible too, if you wish to read it that way. Too bad she doesn't appreciate hinduism; this would be much easier if she had a principle of nonviolence. Anyway, since none of you have any further suggestions, I will send this letter." Lal punches in some commands on his desk-terminal, and the recording is converted into text. Lal reads it through to make sure everything is correct, and then keys in the comm-frequency for the Believers.

A short notice on the terminal informs Lal that the message was sent successfully.

[Barshy]

Sister Miriam read and reread the Lal's reply. She closed her eyes, and, mentally clutching the cross around her neck, prayed a brief prayer. "That peacekeeping Lal... always wanting to please all parties, even to the extent of compromising one's own value system." The letter will have to wait until later, when the Lord's Council once again convened. For now, she had an appointment waiting.

"Don Kimball, at your service." A tall man, dressed in black, entered the room. He bowed his head.

"No need for formalities, Agent Kimball," Miriam replied. Her mere presence naturally attracted the admiration and worship of her followers. "We are waiting for one of our Ministers to come."

"Sister Miriam, sorry I'm late," mumbled Sean as he ran into the room. Just last night, he had a dream where Elizabeth was calling out his name from the distant horizon... as if somehow she was still alive... maybe a sign from God?

"Sean, you are probably familiar with Agent Kimball. I believe he served in Operation Chaos. I would like to once again commend both of you for a job well done." Sean looked over at Don, and forced a smile so fake one could feel the tension in the room. Right after he found out about Elizabeth's true job, he met Don and knew that Don and Liz went to the same academy, and were more than friends it seemed. He knew his dislike toward Don was purely based on jealousy, and that was wrong, but... he didn't like the way he treated her, either.

"After Agent Wivern's passing, I've decided to anoint Don as head of the probe teams. He will be heading our next probe mission; and once again, you, Sean, will be guiding him." Sean barely flinched... just the thought of that cold command room underground gave him horrible feelings associated with Elizabeth's capture, but he had to get over it.

"This mission is quite simple, really. I wish to give Agent Kimball more experience in the seas as I predict we will need it later. Your assignment is to find out which faction is responsible for the raidings on our faction's ships. Infiltrate the group's datalinks if possible. If this faction is one we know of already, they will pay dearly for attacking God's people."

Miriam collected her things, and walked toward the door. "I expect the operation to begin tomorrow. May the Lord be with you." She shut the door.

Miriam seemed more stern than usual, Sean thought. Something must be on her mind... He looked at Don's cocksure face... he remembered how he totally abandoned Elizabeth without a thought, leaving her to die in the clutches of Zakharov.

"Look, Sean, I know you don't like me. I did all I could to get Elizabeth out of there. We need to put our differences aside before the operation tomorrow." Don was always direct, and liked to nip problems in the bud. Qualities that Elizabeth admired.

"Whatever." Sean hated confrontation. He also knew the Lord wasn't pleased with his hatred toward Don; the Lord equated that with murder. And he knew Liz wouldn't have wanted him to. "May the Lord be with you tomorrow. Do you have transportation to Fishes and Loaves?"

"Yeah, I got free access to the Planetary Transit System anytime. Don't you love the kickbacks of working for the government?" Don asked, desperately trying to break the ice.

"I'll be in contact with you tomorrow at 0800 hours. Bright and early."

0800 hours?? Ugh... I am NOT a morning person.. Don thought, but felt it best not to question Sean right now.

[dante^]

M.Y. 2235
Port Svensgaard, Nautilus Pirates Psi Corps

Through his farspecs, Vincent Jones could see the Isle cut a swath through the sea fungus, heading straight for his position on the dock.

This Isle was one of the biggest he had ever seen. If the records were right, this Isle of the Deep was classified as a Great Boil. It had mysteriously appeared near Port Svensgaard after Vincent's conversation with the PlanetMind, in which the "Voice", as the PlanetMind called itself, had agreed to help Vincent.

Vincent soon found out that he could issue simple commands to the aquatic mass of Mindworms, such as "move", "stop" and "carry". The latter command caused the Isle to open up in the middle, to allow at least two squads of infantry or one rover group to be "transported" by the Isle.

The massive Isle of the Deep slowed as it neared the dock. The aquatic Mindworms making up the Isle parted near the middle, opening up a hole large enough for a average-sized person to crawl through.

A chorus of cursing could be heard as four men clad in dark jumpsuits wriggled their way through the small opening in the Isle and stood unsteadily on the dock.

Vincent sighed. It had not been easy for Doctor Lukas to persuade the four Probe Team operatives sent from the Ministry of Intelligence to participate in this experiment. They had protested vehemently when they discovered their role in the experiment and it was only after Doctor Lukas agreed to pay them double of what they were originally to be supposed to be paid that they grudgingly agreed.

He cringed as the four very annoyed men, eager to take out their frustration on whoever was closest at hand, stomped their way across the dock towards him.

"You stinkin' moron, did you know what you put us into ..."

"... can't stand that awful chittering all around us..."

"Yeah, you tell him, Fred. Felt as if we were suffocating in there, no air at all to breathe..."

"I'm gonna rearrange yer face, man..."

Four voices ranting at him simultaneously.

Vincent tried to calm the men down, but the cacophony of complaints and assorted obscenities drowned out his voice. Looking across the dock for help, he saw Melissa grinning at his predicament. He shrugged helplessly.

"Gentlemen, please. Calm yourselves." A wizened old man appeared behind him. Vincent heaved a sign of relief. Doctor Lukas would know how to handle them.

He left Doctor Lukas to the four probe team operatives and walked over to join Melissa at the computer she was working on.

"Hi there. Looks like you were having fun with those probes."

Vincent had to smile back. Her grin was infectious.

"Why didn't you just, y'know, will them to go away? Save yourself from being yelled at." She slipped her hand into his as they walked back along the dock, away from Doctor Lukas and the rest of the Psi Corps team.

Vincent shook his head. "No, probes are creepy. You don't know what secrets they have in their heads. I won't trust them as far as I can throw them."

"Well, you better not get on the bad side of those guys. You're important to the team, you know."

"I guess so, but I'm pretty certain that there are many empaths out there who are more powerful than me. We just haven't found them yet."

****************

CONFIDENTIAL

To: Admiral Harold Briggs, Nautilus Pirates 2nd Fleet
From: Doctor Lukas, Director of Operations, Nautilus Pirates Psi Corps

Admiral Briggs:

From recent experiments conducted to determine the speed and carrying capacity of these Isles of the Deep, we have discovered that the average speed of an Isle of the Deep is roughly equilavent to that of a Cruiser Transport, with the additional bonus of being able to move through sea fungus quickly and undetected.

As for the carrying capacity of each Isle of the Deep, a Boil is able to transport two infantry squads or one group of assault rovers. However, I predict that this carrying capacity can be further increased once we stop controlling these Isles through the PlanetMind and establish direct control over each Isle of the Deep.

Currently, it is impractical to use these Isles of the Deep as transports for our ground troops due to the limited carrying capacity. However, it is possible for us to use these Isles of the Deep to transport our Probe Teams to carry out covert operations deep within enemy lines. Due to the added stealth and the ability to move unhindered through sea fungus, Probe Teams can be moved deep into the heart of enemy territory where they can cause the most damage.

On the other hand, recent experimental subjects have expressed extreme discomfort when transported in the Isle of the Deep, namely incessant chittering, cramped conditions and lack of air. We shall require more time to solve this problem before actual probe team operations can be carried out.

Datalinks Item 493-PC-2235

[Raging Mouse]

Location: U.N. Watcher.

"Attention! At ease. Listen good. That noise you hear in the background is our insurance lifting off. Two full squadrons of chaos needlejets are blasting off currently, ETA Data Decentral six hours from now, ..make that four-thirtytwo aye em. One hour from now, we will blast off, using our airdrop boosters to travel to the Isle of Dexamenus. So I want to say a couple of not-so-well chosen words before we leave." The soldiers lined up in front of Manuel try to keep their faces straight, nevertheless some s******ing can be heard. Just as Manuel wanted. He organizes his thoughts.

"I know some of you old-timers don't trust this new fancy-pansy hi-tech stuff you are carrying on your backs, but I don't think you would prefer swimming to the Isle of Dexamenus. Also, that rifle you are carrying is just as hi-tech, and you sure didn't complain when they were handed out. So why don't you follow the rookies' example, and be glad for every toy you are handed?" Ah. That sunk in as expected. Manuel hasn't seen his veterans look so fierce and determined since they were paraded in front of Commissioner Lal, during a combat demonstration.

"And as for the small M.M.I -outlet on the back of your skull; look at it as more metal between you and death." Not that Manuel likes the Mind/Machine Interface any better. He just senses that his soldiers aren't comfortable yet with their new equipment, neither external nor internal, so this speech is necessary. He wants to go into combat with soldiers willing to give everything they have. Manuel quickly resists an urge to scratch the back of his own skull; the doctors have told him any itching has nothing to do with the contacts just under his skin, other than as a sign that he needs to get used to the device being there..

"These new toys will probably mean that many of you will come home who otherwise wouldn't. So STOP WHINING! I don't want to hear ANY complaints from here on, until we land on the Isle of Dexamenus. Understand? Then ATTENTION! Company; prepare to disembark!!"

Thirty seconds later, Manuel is alone in front of the supply-bunker assigned to the company. A queue is already forming between the bunker and the assigned blast-off zone, and each soldier's personal supplies is stacked in a neat pile on his assigned spot. Manuel listens for a while as the sergeants bark instructions, and then checks the time by mentally commanding his M.M.I. to display it for him. Ghostly green letters seem to appear about three meters away. Manuel nods, and heads for the headquarters of the airbase. He salutes to the door-guard, while his M.M.I communicates the necessary clearance to the security-system. The door swings open, and Manuel enters. A glowing, green line leads him through the corridoors and elevators to the office he is looking for. Inside, Air Commodore Leclerk nods at him.

"At ease, captain. You are right on time. Here is the complete data we have been able to assemble for you. Due to the fact that we want you to arrive without warning, we haven't been able to probe or scout the area. However, second-hand probing, specifically in the University and the Morganites, reveals some details you should be prepared for." The Commodore motions for Manuel to take a seat.

"This report is classified. I'm afraid you cannot relay this information to your men." Manuel nods, and grabs the datapad that Leclerk is holding. The Commodore continues his briefing while Manuel reviews it's contents. "Most concerning is the evidence of a power-source far superior to fission. This easily translates into tougher military units. However, your sudden arrival, as well as the pre-bombardment by the needlejets -and no less than two missiles- should have left them in a daze. Nevertheless, be prepared for a resistance the likes of which you have never seen."

Manuel nods. "Sir, have you detected any chemical weapons?"

"Luckily, no. Were that the case, we would not use a conventional assault."

"I understand. Was that all, sir?"

"Yes. Dismissed."

Manuel returns to the launch area. The company is in formation, and a lieutenant orders them into attention as he approaches. "Thank you, lieutenant. Company; at ease! Have the pre-launch checks been made?" The lieutenant steps forward. "Yes, sir! All systems ready and functional sir!" Manuel nods.

"Good. Launch is.. eight minutes from now. Make any final preparations you have. Lieutenant, assist me." With the Lieutenant's help Manuel straps on his airdrop boosters and links them with the M.M.I. Some text immediately appears in front of Manuel.

### Airdrop System Online ###

SYS-check: OK

A string of large rectangles, continuing out of sight among the clouds, appear above Manuel, creating boundaries that he shouldn't cross during flight.

NAV-reticule: Activated

The boosters give a cough, and the Lieutenant steadies Manuel so he doesn't lose his balance.

Engine test: OK

Each flap meant for navigation is tested in turn.

Control Surfaces: OK

### All Systems OK ###
### Ready for Launch ###

Manuel turns to his men. "Allright! You are creating history as well as justice on this mission. Be proud, be strong, and be brave. Let's go! First Platoon, First Squad; GO!" A roar fills the air as a dozen soldiers activate their boosters. Manuel switches to messaging via the M.M.I. ">First Platoon, Second Squad, GO!<" Another squad thunders away. Manuel is on the third squad, so he signals a lieutenant to take over. ">First Platoon, Third Squad GO!<" Manuel wills his boosters into action, and his head slams into the cushioned supports as several G's worth of acceleration grips his body. When he manages to straighten his head and look around, he sees that his initial burst has already propelled him hundreds of meters into the air. Below him, the first squad of the second platoon are blasting off.

Manuel orders another boost, longer and milder, and is soon dodging clouds. ETA Data Decentral: Four hours, fifty-five minutes.

[Barshy]

New Jeruselum, Main Cathedral

"I am most honoured by your offer, however, and hope we can arrange some other form of cooperation, but in a less violent manner. You have my best wishes," Miriam reads to her Council, in a neutral voice.

"That self-righteous Lal! How dare he lecture us!" shouted Peter, the hot-headed advisor of the holy bunch. Sean leaned back in his leather chair, and looked up toward the ceiling.

"Perhaps there is another way by which we can coax Lal into joining our side. Maybe frame Zakharov with a probe mission?" Andrew spoke up. Andrew always preferred the more subtle maneuvers.

"Lal would know it was from us. Remember the 'framed' attack on University Base? Now Lal and the other poor souls who chose to burden themselves with his meddling alliances are hot on the perpetrator's trail," Sean replied with unusual boldness, sitting up in his chair. Since Elizabeth's death, his character had undergone quite a change.

At the head of the table, sat Miriam, hands together and observing her advisors comment back and forth, like a judge watching a tennis match. At times she would remain unusually silent like this, seeing ideas spring back and forth, feeding into the cognitive factory that was her mind.

Furthermore, the Lord's Council never cast votes on any issue. It ruled by consensus, with the buck stopping at Miriam.

"In any case," Peter said, "I personally am tired by this treaty of 'friendship' we have with Lal. Not only does he disrespect our beliefs, he still insists on maintaining that godless democracy of his, and he continues to befriend Zakharov, and..."

"I don't know what you're suggesting, Peter," Matthew interrupted. "But if you are saying we should cancel our treaty; it's out of the question. The Lord called us to be stewards of our money; with only Lal's and Santiago's treaties, our commerce is barely thriving. To lose our business with Lal would devastate our economy. And Lal knows that."

Finally, Miriam spoke up, her clear voice immediately silencing the murmuring advisors... "After much prayer these past few days, I believe it's time to... befriend other factions. The Believers cannot tolerate dishonorable leaders; as to our economic loss, I would remind you Matthew that our cause is for the Lord, and not for the god of Money." She paused, waiting for the Council's reaction.


"Justice must be swift," Peter said. "The Hive and the Peacekeepers are in a dead heat. A possible tip of the scales toward the Hive..."

"NO. Even if it meant crushing Lal's democracy, Yang's kingdom would double in size, and afterwards we would have reaped a monostrosity of a dictatorship," Miriam replied firmly.

Miriam began to scan the centuries-old memory banks that resided in her head... faces of different faction leaders sweeping through as she considered the different attributes of each leader. With a Ph.D. in Psychology, this process only took but a moment. It was a difficult decision; each faction leader seemed to be embroiled in their own vendettas, those of which she wanted no part in... for now.

She looked up. "Let Lal and Yang fight their own war, and hopefully God will mete our justice upon both those factions. I have endured enough of Lal and his self-righteous minions--"

"But Miriam," interjected the usually quiet Andrew. Council members turned to him in shock, for no one ever stopped Miriam when she began her final decision-making process; doing so was almost equivalent to disturbing the annual ritual of the Lord's high priest in the Holy of Holies during the Jewish era. Miriam overlooked his audacity, for most of the time he was quite meek. "What if Lal would ally with Zakharov and turn against us?"

"God will punish him for his hypocrisy if he were to do so. He does not wish to take part in anyone's vendetta... except his own, of course. I intend to break off our treaty with this Pharisee at once. Though I cannot say I regret to do so," she said as she remembered the relationship they had on the Unity. Times certainly have changed. Matthew stared at the floor, head bowed in humble submission, albeit reluctantly.

"Furthermore, I wish to contact our tree-hugging friend, Lady Dierdre. After all, she is the most 'beautiful' of us all," Miriam smiled. The Lord's Council broke into mild laughter. "My desire is to bend her will to the Lord's. We shall see if we can convince her to accept God's love and grace. Lal has had his chance."

She raised a hand. "Council dismissed. Minister Sean, may the Lord be with you in Agent Kimball's probe team mission. I hope you will bring good news at our next meeting. Council, I will contact Lal and Deirdre myself tomorrow. Today I am quite preoccupied... the academic semester for the Zion Seminary is drawing to a close, and I must finish writing the exams for our students. May the Lord be with you."

Even though Sister Miriam ruled the Believers, she still considered it a priority to continue teaching and preaching to her followers. The Zion Seminary was the most prestigious seminary in all of Believer territory, and the upcoming exams were sure to be a challenge.

[Jayk]

Her muscles ached and her lungs burned. Native plant life flashed past her eyes as she pushed forward. Liz pounded the ground with her feet as she ran, ignoring all pain to reach her goal. Years of training made it easier, but nothing could prepare you for running for your life. All she was thinking about was getting back to Believer territory, the route firmly planted in her mind. The trip would take a few days, but she had enough provisions to make it.

The alarms had gone off seconds after she had cleared the city defense perimeter, the guards were distracted and hardly noticed her slipping off. A small entry in some security log would note a person running off, but the University Security Chief had clear orders to overlook anything of the kind.

Prokhor Zakharov watched the recording later that day in his newly repaired headquarters. An entire bank of monitors showed the Believer spy’s every move from the time she woke up in an obscure bar in a back alley of University Base, to when she slipped past the security checkpoint. Zakharov looked over at Doctor David Jones, his head biologist, and nodded approval. The doctor was content to smile with satisfaction, everything had worked out perfectly. If all went as he planned, Sister Miriam Godwinson would be standing upon a pile of rubble, the result of a carefully planted bomb in her capital city.

Liz finally stopped to rest after running for a good portion of the day; she had to make it believable after all. Who would think she really escaped from the University of Planet if she showed up back home looking no worse for wear from when she left?

----------

Academician Prokhor Zakharov finished a quick lunch consisting of a combination of replicated earth food and some native delicacies. He cleared the dishes himself, not requiring much effort, everything was just dumped in a recycling unit to be sorted, cleaned and reused. He wiped his desk off with a cloth napkin before tossing it in with the rest. Every University of Planet citizen ate well and many technological breakthroughs had culinary applications, improving quality and quantity.

Zakharov picked up a datapad to review his notes once more before having his secretary put through the conference call request. A few minutes went by before the wall monitor turned on displaying the seal of the Peacekeepers. He slid the datapad aside and folded his hands on top of the table, waiting for Commissioner Lal. The Peacekeeper symbol flickered and the visage of their leader appeared.

“Good afternoon Prokhor, what can I do for you?” Lal smiled and leaned forward curiously. Zakharov was not known to make calls of other faction leaders often.

“It involves the resent attack against University Base by chemical weapons. As per your report, Peacecorp troops have departed for the base of the party responsible and are scheduled to meet with a detachment of my forces within a matter of hours. There is only one base; it is unlikely they will be able to defend for long against our superior militaries and air forces. When their defenses have fallen and the leaders captured, I wish to hold them for war crimes against humanity.”

“That is a bold move Prokhor, but what do I and my fellow Peacekeepers have to do with that?” Pravin Lal cocked his head not quite sure where all of this was leading.

“I would like to hold them up for war crimes in the tradition of the U.N. Court of Justice at The Hague, Netherlands. I am willing to publicly state my faith in the U.N. Charter you uphold and support the spread of democracy. I have already committed a good portion of my military to the protection of the Free Drones and am willing to do the same in the future for others.” Propping his elbows up on his desk, Zakharov leaned forward and rested his chin on his folded hands.

Commissioner Lal sat back in his seat and closed his eyes for a moment thinking back to his letter from Miriam Godwinson. “Are you suggesting we sign a Pact of Brotherhood Prokhor?”

“That was my intention. I know your war with the Hive is at a virtual standstill and it is in both our best interests to preserve Democracy over Chairman Yang’s vicious Police State.”

“I shall have to think this over, it is not a decision to make lightly as I am sure you know.”

Zakharov sighed in response. “I realize that I have been accused of unethical research methods and experiments in the past. My research continues as it always will, but I am willing to open my laboratories to Peacekeeper personnel to inspect to your satisfaction.”

“That is not my main concern Prokhor, I have several other things to consider before I can commit to a Pact of Brotherhood. I will contact you when I have come to a decision. Good day.”

The channel was shut down and Zakharov sat looking at a blank monitor for a minute before shaking his head in disappointment.

[Cotroneo]

1200 hours
Morgan Interstellar
Warehouse District 1-3-5 Blue Sector

“Sinder has been an interesting irregularity, she continues to amaze me.”

“I think you take to much interest in these simpletons.”

“They are no different then you or I.”

“But your wrong about that… they are ignorant to the future.”

“Ignorance can be better than knowledge.”

“They fight each other, without hesitation. They have doomed themselves to humanity’s past mistakes.”

“But there is hope.”

“Yes there is hope, but hope does not mean victory.”

“Perhaps, but we will help our fellow simpletons tip the balance.”

“That is, if project rebirth succeeds.”

“It will, I have my best man on the job.”

“He better be your best, for your sake and mine.”

“Actually, last time I checked, he was making great progress with the specimen at the training facility.”

*********************************************

1200 hours
Secret Hollow

Sinder paced her room slowly, trying to evaluate her precarious situation. ‘If they find out about this base, we are finished. But I can not do anything about it, for now. We just need more time!’ Sinder annoyingly thought as she stopped in front of her desk to look at a blinking message on her datapad.

- Message Urgent -

Sinder, come to the test grounds, Zebra and I have something to show you.

- Beetle

You may have your wish at last!

- Message Complete -

*********************************************

1300 hours
Rebuilt HQ, Data DeCentral

“What do you have to report Daniel? I trust you didn’t interrupt my meeting with Morgan representatives for nothing.” Tomahawk said as he walked into his personal command room and took his seat at his desk.

“Sir, I have urgent news, I suggest I brief you while we go to the war room, your commanders are waiting." Daniel Wheeler, Tomahawk’s new assistant said as he motioned for his boss to follow him.

Both men briskly walked out, chattering as they walked to the elevator lifts, to reach the underground floors, where the new war room had securely been built.

“What’s the problem Daniel, do we have something incoming.” Tomahawk asked as he walked into the elevator.

“Actually Sir, several incoming targets are approaching from the east. We are not sure about their makeup, but we know their Peacekeepers.” Daniel had yet to see actually combat and was nervous about the impending events.

“Peacekeepers, here now? Why?” Tomahawk yelled out as he irritatingly waited for the elevator to drop to the bottom.

“Who knows Sir, but intelligence has been getting hints about something the Peacekeepers were planning militarily. I guess this is what they were conceiving.”

“Have our forces been mustered?” Tomahawk inquired as he finally stepped out of the elevator, into a dark glowing red room three levels underground.

“Good afternoon sir.” The group of commanders said simultaneously as he appeared.

“I hope you have better news gentlemen than what Daniel as told me so far.” Tomahawk said as he nodded back to his commanders and took a seat at the war table.

“I have scrambled one squadron of the F-3bs, but I'm not optimistic. They are only equipped with impact weapons, dating before the civil war.” Lt. Commander Blanca, who commanded the small airforces said as he stood up and addressed the table.

“Unfortunately Sir, we are also uncertain of our chances on the ground, we have only a few units available. The two plasma garrisons, with the missile rover battalion is the only units operational. The real problem is that they are unequipped to fight large air formations. If you remember Sir, our plan was to equip these units next spring with the photon armor and triple A capability.” Commander Kirk said, as he looked at Tomahawk ashamed of his army’s poor shape.

“No need to be ashamed gentleman, it is regrettable that we are forced to fight a conventional war, so soon since our last battle with Sinder. Does anyone have any ideas to equal the balance or any intelligence on the incoming forces?” Tomahawk asked to an ere quiet table.

The table was silent as the half a dozen commanders pretended to check statistics and information on their datapads, all knowing that they were in a pitiful shape.

“I see…..we must wear down the forces slowly. Our only chance of victory is to make this fight a meat grinder. Blanca, use your fighters to keep them busy, I know I’m asking almost suicide, but you must. Kirk, deploy your forces in the city and out of harms way from those attack aircraft. We are still unsure if they have a ground attachment on some naval vessel headed our way, but if they do. Fight house to house, they are to far away from home to be resupplied. And knowing the Peacekeepers, they tend to avoid or retreat if faced with a drawn out battle. God Speed.” Tomahawk finished and the commanders broke to contact their respective sub-commanders.

‘I know why they are coming…..that bastard Sinder, they are blaming us for her order. If we lose this battle, I may have one more card to play.’ Tomahawk thought as he walked to the large map of the Isle of Dexamenus plastered to the wall and looked at the topography of the area.

[Barshy]

Dressed in black, Agent Don Kimball looked out into the vast blue sea. All he could hear was the waves lapping against the foil, and some dolphins, or whatever they were on Planet, laughing in the background. God truly was a remarkable Creator.

He looked at his new probe foil, sleek, black, and barely emitting any trace of a sound. His two probe members, the same two who were a part of Operation Chaos, sat at the end of the foil, talking, as the foil moved along the waters.

He closed his eyes, feeling the fresh breeze embrace his body. How he longed to see Liz's beautiful face again. Since he abandoned her into the hands of the University soldiers, he never shed a tear for her loss. To avoid the pain of her death, he tried to fill his mind with other thoughts...

"Don! Stop the ship!" crackled a voice from his radio. Thankfully, his depressing reverie was over. Sean's voice urgently continued, "Radar detects some ships passing in your vincinity."

Sure enough, from the horizon came a fleet of five mighty ships, armed with powerful artillery. Don narrowed his eyes, looking through his bronoculers on his headgear. Thank God, he thought. They won't detect us.

Yet as the fleet began passing by their probe foil, Don noticed that unlike most factions' fleets, these ships were not all constructed in the same style. Two of the ships' paint was chipped, with a faded dark green diamond on its side. Gaian ships... Another small and raggety looking foil had a white semi-circle with a dot in the center on its hull.. Remnants of Yang's symbol... And the last two... sure enough.. bore the familiar symbol of a cross. The sailors milling about on the decks were not those in clean-cut uniforms, but a rag-tag bunch of rowdy buccaneers.

My God, Don thought. These are the mysterious misfits that have been raiding our ships.. Don burned with holy anger, but kept his mind focused on the mission. He must locate one of these mysterious faction's bases. "Minister Yang," Don spoke into the radio. He decided to begin addressing Sean formally, to get on his good side. Sean would never forgive him for abandoning Liz... "I've located some of this faction's ships... two of them were Believer ships. This faction does indeed exist."earthbeing...

"What? What did you say?" Don asked.

"I didn't say anything Agent Kimball. Proceed toward the east..."

earthbeings... follow earthmiriam... planetnotpromisedlandplanetnotpromisedland.. earthbeingsnotwelcome..

A flood of foreign psi energy began to penetrate Don's brain, and he slammed his hands over his ears in a futile effort to block the waves. The other probe members kneeled to the ground, clutching their heads and bowed in agony.

notwelcomeatseaearthbeings.. planetnotpromisedland.. planetnowelcomeearthbelievers.. earthmiriamruinplanetplanetpromisedlandnotwelcome

Soon the stream of words became accelerated in speed and virtually incomprehensible... "GO!!!" screamed Don to the pilot of the probe foil, who then went full speed ahead. Going full speed could risk getting caught by other factions, but it was worth it..

Meanwhile, back in New Jeruselum control room, Sean stared at the screen with eyes wide open. Though he was miles away from Don, the same psi energy penetrated Sean's mind, filling his head with a voice that triggered horrible memories from the death of his mother.

However, unlike the incomprehensible gibberish that Don heard, and that Sean heard ten years ago when he witnessed a swarm of mindworms kill his mother, a very clear voice spoke in Sean's head, clear and yet accompanied by a multitude of quiet chittering.

Minister Sean Yang... came the singsong voice. Sean looked around in panic. No one else was in the room. Hands filled with perspiration, he quickly breathed a prayer to exorcise the demon that was plaguing his mind...

Planet is angry, and know that I am here to pronounce judgement. the voice continued, accompanied by raspy whisperings. This time the voice sounded strangely human. High-pitched, hollow, almost like a child...

We have observed your kind for years, Minister Yang. Know that for every filthy creature that abuses this land, Planet stores up Her wrath tenfold. Your kind believe that Planet is somehow your possession, your 'promised land,' as you disgustingly call it. Planet's patience wears thin, and I will execute Her will."

Sean could do nothing. The voices hurt his head considerably, yet he remained mentally as sturdy as a fortress, trying to heed this strange voice carefully.

Moreover, you mock Planet with your so-called 'economics.' Your kind multiplies and spreads across the land like a plague, and your factories spew their venemous poison into Planet's air. You think you can defeat Planet? You think you can overcome Planet?

Minister Yang, I remember you. I specifically remember your father's decision to construct thermal boreholes at the outskirts of Terrible Swift Sword, during his tenure as governor. I hope your mother's death taught your father a fine lesson.



NO, Sean thought. Rage filled his heart as hot tears streamed down his cheeks, as he realized that his mother's death was not because of wild mindworms, but was ordered by this.. Satanic voice...

The steely voice continued. Yet you and your kind continue. I see your kind have decided to explore the seas. Do you think Planet will allow you to spread your filth to other lands? Do you think I will allow you to? As a testament of my power... I shall execute these mortal friends of yours. Let this be a sobering lesson to your arrogant kind.

No, Sean thought. He must mean... Don and the probe team.. He had already lost Liz on his first mission. He will NOT lose another probe team, even if it was Don, whom he disliked. A part of him desired sweet revenge on the one who abandoned Liz, but he knew the Lord called him to forgive him. NO... I implore you, whomever you are. Do not destroy these... worthless mortals for the sake of punishing those truly responsible.

The voice hesitated, apparently somewhat surprised that a mortal could use psi energy to communicate so clearly. Such ability usually signified an innate, close connection with Planet and was quite rare. Very well, Minister... Planet tells me She is impressed with your latent psi capabilities, and deems you someone worthy of trust. For now. Know that you have suspended Her wrath but for a moment. Notify that Religious Freak, Sister Miriam. My isle of the deep has already mentally downloaded your commlink frequency from your probe foil and I will communicate with your bible-thumping leader soon.

Suddenly the chittering stopped. Sean slumped back in his chair, exhausted and sweaty. "Minister Yang? Are you there? I think we finally escaped... I believe it was another wild isle of the deep. Thank God we got away."

Relieved to hear Don's voice, Sean replied, "Yes, the Lord has been merciful once again to us.. May the rest of the mission be a success." Sean decided to forgo telling him about his... experience. He sighed. Obviously Miriam would have to know about this, but she probably wouldn't want to, given her current diplomatic pressures of dealing with Lal and Dierdre.

Meanwhile, 40 stories above Sean, sat Miriam facing the screen on the left wall. Saying a quick prayer, she dialed the commlink frequency for Pravin Lal.

[Raging Mouse]

Location: U.N. Watcher

"This is flight control to Alpha and Bravo groups; come in."

The response is loud and without interference:
"Alpha one here."
"Bravo one here."

The comms-officer nods to a commander, who grabs a microphone. "This is Air Commodore Morito. You are now three minutes from your target. Report."

"Alpha one reporting. We are at full operational status. All wingmen are go."

"Bravo one reporting. We have less fuel than predicted due to some heavy turbulence at four thousand meters. Otherwise all systems nominal."

The commodore glances at Bravo group's fuel readouts and nods. "Alpha and Bravo, you have the all clear. Commence operation 'Hubris'."

"This is Alpha one -roger that. Switching to active scanners... Bogeys at fifteen degrees! Alpha group -engage."

"This is Bravo one. We'll cover you, Alpha."

"Alpha one, firing..."

"Alpha six firing.. splash! One down."

"Alpha three, I'm hit, I'm hit!"

Air Commodore Morito brings up Alpha three's stats onto his comm-screen. The hit, although a bulls-eye, didn't penetrate. "This is flight command. The enemy is using outdated weaponry that poses little threat to your photon shielding."

"Alpha three, received."

"Alpha group; this is Alpha one. Use evasive tactics and save some armour. No use being cocky because they can't shoot you down at once."

"Bravo two reporting a splash! He's dow- Hey, how did he survive that? Ah well. Firing.. Boom! NOW he's gone."

"Bravo five here, one down."

"Alpha one here, one down."

"Bravo one here. One down. Hold on. Remaining bogeys are breaking off. Pursuing."

Air Commodore Morito nods, satisfied, as the remaining needlejets are shot down. "Alpha and Bravo groups, patrol for hostiles until your fuel reads fifty per cent. Then return to base."

"This is Alpha one. Got that. Scanners show no hostiles.. No military-grade energy signatures from the base. Doing a fly-by.. No enemy units detected. Initiating standard patrol."

Location: Data Decentral

"Whoo-hooo!!"

">Storgard, knock it off. You need to break your descent some more if you wish to keep your legs intact when you land.<"

">Right, Captain! First platoon, start landing sequence on my mark! Ready! NOW!<"

The pink smudge just south of Data Decentral quickly becomes a large fungal field. Seconds later the mottled pink surface seems to stretch all the way to the horizon. Manuel slowly increases the thrust, until he hovers about ten meters above the ground. He lets the automatic landing program take over, and he lands lightly. He unfastens the drop boosters, and turns around to shout some orders. Then he remembers he doesn't have to, anymore. A queasy feeling overcomes him as he watches Storgard, now a Lieutenant, silently bark the orders to the first platoon.

">Get out of the way and start assembling your crawler!<"

'How different this war is from operation Tunnel Fire', Manuel muses. 'Now we can roar orders without opening our mouths, and we can fly like rockets as if it were the most natural thing in the world. All hail M.M.I.'

The first platoon's infantry crawler is assembled, and Manuel stows away his drop equipment. He assumes position just behind Lieutenant Storgard, who is at the controls. The second and third platoons are also quickly assembling their crawlers, and in the distance Manuel can see the lights as the 27th regiment's third company lands. He wills open a commlink.

">This is Captain Cormora of the second company. We're all clear -and mildly bruised. What is your status?<"

">Captain Steiner of the third here. A soldier from the second platoon landed on his head. It's not a pretty sight. We're bringing his body with us. Otherwise we're ready.<"

">Ok. Will contact you once we're inside city perimeters.<" Manuel flips to another comm-frequency. ">This is Captain Manuel Cormora to Alpha and Bravo groups. How are you doing?<"

">This is Alpha one. Our fuel is almost at the halfway mark, so we'll be leaving you in a few minutes. Don't seem to be much activity around; we haven't seen a single rover since we got here. However, our scanners are being jammed -so you should expect some kind of resistance. Not a big deal, though, judging from the gnats we swatted out of the sky. Since we can't find another target the two missiles are heading for the harbor and the airport. That should eliminate the chance of any escape or counterstrike by sea or air. ETA fifteen minutes.<"

">Thanks. Anything else?<"

">Mission control wishes good luck, and -oh, yes. The University forces should arrive early tomorrow morning.<"

">Allright; the base should be flagging the U.N. emblem by then. Over and out.<"

Manuel surveys his company of soldiers once more. He notes how much Corporal Ulrich reminds him of Corporal McDougal. The stance is the same, but Ulrich's expression is much more fierce than the gentle McDougal ever could have managed. Of course, the illusion is strengthened by the Mayhem Minigun, a Chaos-gun that replaces the minigyro, that Ulrich is carrying.

">Let's move. Company! March!<"

[Jasonian]

Unity Drone Quarters
M.Y. 2100


Domai entered in the U.N.S Unity drone quarters with the sound of war around him. Most of his loyal drone allies were already awake and giving orders to his men. The Drone Rebellion was proceeding smoothly. They had blocked all entrances to the drone quarters and were pushing the Talents outward. Within the hour, control of the nearest landing pod would be theirs. Once there, they could get inside and make Planetfall. After that, the war for freedom would truly begin.

Domai proceeded out into the hall. The sounds of fighting could be heard farther down the corridor. The Drones were making excellent progress. As Domai continued down the hall, the door burst open. Domai quickly opened a nearby service hatch and hid inside. Several men ran past him, oblivious that they were in Drone territory, and all armed with shredder pistols.

“I hear Svensgarrd‘s forces are making a break for the left wing!”

“That’s where the sea escape pods are! The bastard must be trying to make a water landing and escape us! We have to hold him off!”

“My men are ready for ambush. He won’t make it.”

“Good. Once we defeat him, we can secure that pod for Provost Zakharov. That will be three for him, right?”

They continued down the hall, and Domai heard their screams several seconds later as they ran into the battle zone. Domai felt no pity for them. After all, they were the enemy. They were the ones who would enslave him if they caught him. Domai mulled the situation over. ‘Hmm… Svensgarrd has gone rebel as well… sea escape pods? Planet must be mostly water, and he wants a pod for his people!’ Domai broke into a run now and dashed toward the conflict zone in search of a weapon.

It didn’t take him long to find out how bad the situation actually was.

The corridor was mostly filled with fighting men, apparently on three different sides. Domai could recognise several of his troops still up, still pushing the attackers back. However, Domai himself was unarmed and he dived for cover into an alcove and found himself in an air duct. Deciding that crawling through the duct was better then getting himself shot, Domai continued forward. Perhaps he could get some idea what opposition was up ahead and relay it back to the rebel leaders. After all, Domai was just a simple drone himself.

From beneath, Domai could hear the sounds of war. The entire ship, and not just the Drones, had broken into chaos and was desperately fighting each other for control of the eight landing pods. The name U.N.S Unity was not without a touch of irony, it seemed.

After several minutes, Domai found himself on top of a grating, looking down into a room. Inside, he recognised Security Chief Yang and several others.

Yang spoke, “What of the search? Any sign of Aki Hansen?”

“None yet, Chairman. ‘Chairman?! We searched the closest sick bay and found it empty. Entry to the next one over is blocked by Morgan’s troops, and we lacked a sufficient force to overtake them.”

Yang’s eyes blazed, “Need I remind you what she could do for us? We must capture her. I don’t want excuses; I want results! Send a larger force and break through. Now, you there! What about Domai?”

“Nothing also. After a quick fight with some of their kind, we found the drone quarters had been evacuated. No sign of Domai.” Evacuated? They must have left to board the pod!

“In other words, you have failed. Find him!”

“But Chairman! He’s just a common drone. There are many of his type. Why must we sacrifice our lives for one stupid drone?”

Questioning Yang was a good way to wind up dead, but Yang answered, “Domai… is special. The brain damage while repairing the Unity has made him almost completely dumb to pain, and he possesses a real skill for managing a construction zone. I want him, not one other Drone.”

“With the Drone rebellion, not to mention the other factions, he’s probably already dead.”

Yang sighed, “No… no. He’s not dead. He’s so close… so close.”

At that moment, the grating Domai was on collapsed and he fell into the room, and at the business end of several shredder pistols.

“Well well, it’s Domai. Nice of you to join us. You’ll be coming with us. Check him for weapons and-“

The door burst open, “Chairman Yang! Lal’s men have stopped their assault on our bay and are falling back! Now is the time to get you in!”

Yang nodded, “Secure the hall from here to there, and also from our cytobay. It’s time to get our people onboard.” he turned to Domai and sneered, “You’ll love what we have in store. You’ll be quite useful for our new nation. Let’s go!”

The troop moved toward the bay, and toward the future.
[This message has been edited by Jasonian (edited January 13, 2000).]

[Cotroneo]

1710 hours
Data DeCentral
City Block Alpha, Moses Street

“Here they come….fire on my signal.” Commander Kirk whispered over the comlink to his sub-commanders who were scattered throughout the city street buildings, waiting to ambush the unsuspecting enemy.

“Let’s combine our attack on that large infantry crawler out front. My guess is that they got most of their infantry riding inside.” Kirk said as he motioned for one of his soldiers to throw him an anti-tank impact rifle.

“Sir, the rovers are standing by inside the Grumman building, sergeant Sagat wants his orders.” Kirk’s comlink operator said as he trudged over to him.

“Tell Sagat to hold them there, let’s use the infantry first to demobilize them.” Kirk answered back as he rose his firearm up to the window.

He could see one or two large crawlers slowly traveling down the rode, with a couple dozen men walking briskly beside it. They were definitely Peacekeepers, and were far better armed then Kirk’s three units were. His sub-commanders must have thought him nuts to keep the rovers on stand bye for now, but he knew what he was doing. He had left the underground bunker with Tomahawk to be close to his troops and see the battle as it happened.

“Their armor is to strong to pierce, so lets try to force it onto its side.” Kirk said he pointed his anti-tank weapon at the crawler.

“Every thing is in place Sir.” The same comlink operator said as he put down his radio gear and took out his own rifle out.

“Let’s do it…….Fire!”

A large buzzing broke the silence of the street, stopping the Peacekeepers in their tracks as they looked around the street wondering what the noise was. Most of the younger Peacekeeper troops had never heard impact rifles, do to the weapon’s old age.

But, unlike these weapons, many of the Peacekeepers would not live to grow old. The gates of hell opened as several dozen screaming anti-tank impact shots dashed through the building windows on a path for the infantry crawler.

The infantry crawler swayed back and forth until, one group of well placed shots hit the side, forcing it to topple onto its right side. There was hardly any external damage, but several shots had damaged the gear treads, demobilizing it onto its right side.

“Alright men, over the top.” Kirk yelled over the comlink as the two plasma garrisons broke more windows and started sniping the unprepared Peacekeepers.

Several dozen of the men inside the wrecked crawler staggered out into the hell fire of chaos and impact energy weapons. Several small teams of Peacekeepers managed to get safely into the street buildings that were along the street, while most opted to hide behind the crawler.

Men hobbled along the street without arms or legs, shocked psychologically from the burst of pain and agonizing fire they felt inside their bodies. While some crazed men stood up from their cover and started shooting insanely in any direction, appalled and driven insane by the situation, until they were permanently silenced.

“Sir, we got a problem.” Kirk turned his head to see his comlink officer who had stopped firing.

“Son, get your butt back on the firing line, we can’t let them get organized.” Kirk screamed to the young first class private.

“Sir, we got more company. A second undetected Peacekeeper platoon is about a half a mile away from our position, and they’re on their way to help these guys.”

‘Damit, we attacked to soon, we should have waited till all the Peacekeeper platoons were inside the city.’ Kirk thought, but only managed to scream a volley of curses out to his soldiers inside his own building. The two men suddenly were tossed back, as the wall of the building erupted, do to a peace keeper chaos weapon.

“This is suicide…” Kirk said as he laid against the opposite wall bleeding and broken. Then all was black.

The street battle continued on as the Peacekeepers finally started to organize themselves into small units under the fire from all sides. Men littered the street… the unfortunate ones who couldn’t get to safety quick enough. Yet, the Probe warriors were doing not much better. Their protective buildings were being shattered by the enormous blast radiuses of the chaos armed Peacekeepers, and blood ran through the streets in abundance.

The remaining Probe infantry commanders, separated in their own little mini-fort buildings along the doomed street, stopped firing to hear a message that came over the comlink.

“This is Sgt. Sagat, of the first missile rover battalion, we will be there in several seconds, you must hold on.” A dozen rovers several streets away rammed through their protective buildings, in which they were hiding from Peacekeeper scanners, on their way to help their infantry brethren.

The commanders turned back to the battle to see thousands of rounds buzzing throughout the street, some pointed at individual stronghold buildings, while even more were aimed at the by now, charred crawler and its defenders. They felt confident that help was on the way. But as the Peacekeepers finally received help from the infantry platoon that had rushed to their assistants, they felt their fate was sealed as the horde of overpowering infantry began to destroy any sign of probe resistance still remaining.

[This message has been edited by Cotroneo (edited December 08, 1999).]

[Cotroneo]

1800 hours
Secret Hollow, Testing Grounds

The testing grounds were nothing more than a slab of cleared grassland, that was unoccupied by the bases slowly growing population. It was still within the cloaking field’s perimeter, making it a perfect place to test new types of mining equipment, robotic systems, and weapons if needed.

“What did you drag me out here for Beetle, I thought the new mining equipment was working perfectly inside the first borehole.” Sinder said to Beetle, who was standing with several scientists looking at the large patch of grassland.

“Watch closely.” Beetle replied, not even bothering to turn to her and talk.

Suddenly a large metallic disk shot out of a device to the left of Sinder. Sinder took a step back and covered her ears from the sudden sound crashing against her eardrums. The diskette slowly grew quieter as it gained altitude and distance from their position.

“Don’t blink Sinder!” Beetle finally yelled over the disk’s noise, as it reached its arch apex.

A burst of glowing white light seemed to come out of know where directly from the center of the field. The stream of pure white light followed the disk until the two forces met. The steady drone of the disk suddenly stopped, and then the sky erupted into a ball of fire, as if the sun had exploded directly in front of them.

“What the...” Sinder stopped what she was about to say as she turned her eyes from the flaming disk to the point at which the glowing white light had originated.

The area around the point seemed to fizzle back and forth. Almost like when a person looks at the horizon in a desert. Another white light caused Sinder to turn away and close her eyes. She turned back to see one of the smaller ogres idle at the center of the grassland.

“…heck was that.” Sinder finally completed what she had started to say.

Just before Beetle could answer her, a person slowly appeared to come out of the ogre, drawing the spectators’ attention. The man who came out of an opening on top of the metallic beast, stood up slowly and waved to them. Sinder quickly pressed three buttons in sequence on her wrist pad, causing her optical contacts to zoom in on the person. Sure enough, it was a slightly gray haired Zebra. He propelled down a stairs that some engineers brought over, and started to walk over to the others who had watched the spectacle from a distance.

“Sinder, I think this is the ‘solution’ you were hoping for.” Beetle simply said as he turned to Sinder who still had a visage of amazement on her face.

“Boy, I leave you guys alone with your toys, and this is what happens.” Sinder comically replied as she mentally took in everything that happened.

“It was actually Zebra who developed the human systems able to maneuver the ogre.” Beetle said modestly.

“Last time I saw this thing, it was still inside the B building, how did you get it out of there?” Sinder asked to Zebra who had finally arrived.

“Well, I guess I should start from the beginning.” Zebra stopped and took a seat at a console that was set up around the test area to monitor the ogre’s readings. “Several days ago, we made an important discovery. One of our minor technicians found what looked like a power uplink attached to the structure of the ogre. We played around with one of our portable power generators, and with a few modifications we….well to put it in layman’s terms….we turned on the power switch, which activated the onboard generators. After that, it was simply translating the machine’s limited computer database into a human control system. We built a compartment, similar to a cockpit, inside the beast, where we can uplink and control the creatures commands. Although, I must admit, I don’t understand much of the computer language, if you can call it that, so our abilities are limited at this time.” Zebra finished and turned to his console’s monitors and looked keenly at some of the readings.

Sinder, feeling that she got the gist of what was said, turned to Beetle to further question what had happened. “How did it appear out of thin air?”

“It didn’t just appear from thin air Sinder, it was actually there the whole time. We felt that a few ‘intriguing’ modifications might make it more ‘interesting’. One being the miniaturized stealth generator attached to it. We found that the machine’s internal engine supply is so tremendous, that we are able to power add-ons like a stealth generator with out a problem.” Sinder seemed even more confused as ever after Beetle’s explanation.

“What was that beam of light Beetle, a chaos gun?” Sinder asked as she took another look at the metallic beast standing in the field.

“Chaos, that’s a laugh, we know it’s not that.” Zebra answered for Beetle as he turned away from his console to join the group.

“Then what was it?” Sinder directed her question towards Zebra this time.

“Well….we’re not sure….but I’ve seen specs on chaos weapons before, and it was far from them in weapon energy and design. This test that you saw was a group of tests planned to test the weapon’s strength, power and lay out. That circular disk was made up of multiple silksteel alloys, and it cut through it like a hot knife threw butter.” Zebra said lavishly.

“I would prefer to be told about any tests that are being done, next time. Were you aware of the danger of testing a weapon system this strange inside the stealth generator? We have no clue about this……battle ogre’s……origins or abilities. It could be a University bomb for all we know.” Sinder felt like she was scolding a child who stole some food from the kitchen before dinnertime.

“We both understand, but we felt it was important to go ahead with the tests as soon as possible. Especially with the attacks on Data DeCentral happening as we are speaking.” Beetle said as he tried to play peacemaker between the two.

Sinder took a step back, and stroked her hair back covering her eyes.

“I’m sorry gentlemen, I’ve been extremely busy lately, and it seems you made a prudent decision on your part. Any proposal that you guys would have made may have slowed down the project, your initiative is commended.” Zebra merely nodded to Sinder’s apology.

The strain of running a faction, even as small as the Data Angels, without adequate supplies or personal was extremely stressful. Sinder wished she could go back to her old probe days working for Morgan, but she felt that freedom and self-determination out weighed her personal lavish feelings. Sinder proceeded to walk back slowly to her command room, yet she felt very confident that she had the right people in government and that good times were just around the horizon. Perhaps these three new battle ogres could prove to be the security that she wished for.

[Barshy]

*bleep*

Miriam waited patiently as the Peacekeeper symbol remained on her screen, signifying that Lal had not yet arrived at the command room but would soon be there. Taking advantage of this down time, she asked God to give her guidance for the right words to say.

A harrowed looking Pravin Lal appeared on the screen. He looked more tired than usual. Typical signs of an ardent peacekeeper, straining to keep the factions at peace with each other. Miriam almost felt some sympathy for his cause, but remained resolute.

"Greetings Brother Lal. As usual, I commend your humanitarian efforts and hope things are going well in your web of diplomacy," Miriam started.

"Sister Miriam, spare the formalities. It is obvious why you have contacted me," Lal replied. Lal's face remained stern. Ever since the breakup at the Unity, Lal's idealistic visions for the unification of humankind were falling apart, and he no longer wished to beg and plead sycophantically with factions to join hands. Although he never abandoned his cause, his approach had become more straightforward and blunt, for he subconciously blamed his weak personality for the breakup of the Unity. Had he taken charge aboard the ship, these splintered factions would not exist, and all of Planet would be under his legitimate rule.

True or not, that was the psychoanalysis that Miriam came up with to describe his current personality. The tone of his voice, the look of his face was enough to communicate that he was slightly on edge. Miriam did not have to look at the bioscan to know that.

"Brother Lal, I will not bother to repeat my arguments in the letter. I give you one last chance. Cut off the treaty of friendship with the immoral Zakharov. Bear in mind our own treaty of friendship, and that it is a two-way street."

"Miriam, my decision will not change. Zakharov has done me no wrong. In fact, I would implore you to call of your vendetta on Zakharov yourself. In the name of 'religion' you have murdered thousands..." Lal shook his head. Normally he would speak more diplomatically, but he was tired of the same conversation, and his true opinions must be known. "Would you only allow your citizens to decide for themselves what to think..."

"Brother Lal," Miriam interjected, face burning with anger. "Do not attempt to preach at me with your self-righteous rhetoric. You are essentially asking me to throw away everything that I believe in."

Miriam continued, "Back on Earth, when they began to recruit crew members for the Unity, God was gracious to me and allowed me to be selected. I was overjoyed by the opportunity to bring God's love and freedom to the dying souls of humanity, and to bring His guidance to the promised land. However, during the months leading up to the Unity, I felt betrayed. Those in charge demanded that I compromise my faith to accommodate those on board.

As 'psych chaplain,' I was not to go around preaching my religion. My sole purpose was to provide a source of inspiration, counseling, and hope to those on board, a disgusting and watered-down version of what I felt I was truly called to do. The reason? Those in charge of the Unity project were mired in politics. The only reason I was chosen was because they wanted to appease the growing population of believers."

"That's not true. The whole project reeked of politics, yes," Lal replied, remembering that he himself arranged to get his beloved Pria on board though she failed the medical exam. He also thought it rather ironic that Zakharov and Miriam, bitter enemies, both shared the same hatred for politics. One wanted unfettered research, the other unfettered religion. He continued, "You were chosen for your remarkable charisma, you ability to counsel those in need..."

"Hogwash! Regardless of my abilities, the believers would have overthrown the government had they not chosen me, their leader. And yet after I was chosen, they attempted to purge me of my beliefs for the sake of 'compromise,' as to not 'offend' others on board, and most of all, as to not lose the support of the governments and other various godless constituencies.

"As you can see, Pravin," she continued in a rare personal manner, "all of life I have had to deal with your kind, so-called 'democratic' idealists who wish to eradicate God for the sake of 'freedom' and compromise! Although I lamented the breakup of the Unity, I suddenly saw that God Almighty had graciously bestowed upon me the freedom I had always longed for. Freedom from meddling politicians. Freedom from those scientists and activists who would destroy my faith. I finally had the freedom to enact the Truth of God onto flocks of people willing to follow me. I cannot let go of that freedom."

Lal remained silent for a moment, slightly angered that Miriam would rejoice at the breakup of the Unity... "What are you saying, Miriam?"

She closed her eyes and breathed, her passion and anger dying away. She calmly replied, "The treaty of friendship is cancelled." Her eyes opened, her piercing gaze magnifying the effect of her words.

Feeling as if hit with a ton of bricks, Lal's heart grew heavy, yet at the same time he was not surprised at all by her reaction. It could have been much worse... she could even have sided with Yang. This only proved that Lal could only remained straddling the fence for a period of time. He quickly wondered how long he would be able to maintain his treaties with Dierdre and Morgan. "As you wish, Miriam. Know that your contentious bible-thumping behavior does not sit well with me. You will soon find out that true freedom will be yours when you decide to cease shoving your extremist moral code down other people's throats. Lal out." Lal hated ending dialogues on a sour note, but sometimes fire just had to be fought with fire.

Unfazed by his response, Miriam closed the commlink and felt a huge weight had been lifted off her shoulders. Suddenly, she heard an urgent knock at the door. "Enter," she said wearily, as evening was approaching and she had had a long day.

Sean rushed into the room and said, "You're not going to like this."

[dante^]

M.Y. 2235
Alpha Prime, Cybernetic Consciousness Headquarters

Phelan Ward slowly opened his eyes. He sat up in the bunk he had been sleeping in. Then the memories came back to him.

Had it been all a dream? The interrogation. The torture. An incredibly vivid, but nonetheless, still a dream?

Phelan peered around his confines. A windowless room, completely bare except for the cot he was sitting on. To call it a cell would be more appropriate.

Noiselessly, the door to his cell slid open. From what he had been through, he'd expected a titan to come through the door, but what he saw surprised him.

A girl of about his own age appeared in the doorway. She wore her dirty blonde hair very straight, allowing it to fall halfway down her back. Upon closer scrutiny, Phelan noticed that she had emerald-green eyes and a pert, upturned nose that gave her otherwise emotionless face an amused expression. Like Phelan, she wore a flowing teal robe. Phelan could only gawk at her. He had never seen such beauty back home in Safe Haven, nor anywhere else for that matter.

Then he noticed the metallic nodes sticking out of her head. A mixed pang of fear and realization struck him in the pit of his stomach. She was a Cyborg.

"Good morning, Lieutenant Commander Phelan Ward. I trust that you have slept well." Phelan could hardly believe that a cyborg could have such a soft, lilting voice like the one he was hearing. "Please follow me, Lieutenant Commander. There is someone who needs to speak to you."

Phelan meekly got to his feet and followed her through the doorway. The girl led him through a long corridor until they reached an unmarked door at the end. She punched a series of numbers on a panel beside the door. Tones rang out as she did so, but they were too quick for Phelan to remember.

"Please proceed, Lieutenant Commander." Phelan would have preferred to continue staring at her, but curiosity pushed him to keep moving.

As he entered, he saw that this room was as spartan as the one he had been in before, except that this contained a metal table and two chairs, one of which was occupied.

A familiar figure rose from the chair to greet him. "Hello, Phelan."

****************

"Rear-Admiral de Bilde?! But... how can this be? I saw the Prometheus sink during the war with the Cyborgs... there were no survivors..."

"How can I be still alive? To put it bluntly, Phelan, I'm not. After the Pirate reinforcements departed, Cyborg salvage teams managed to recover my body from the sea. Rear-Admiral Thomas de Bilde is dead, Phelan. As it is, you are now speaking to the Consciousness through what used to be the human Thomas de Bilde."

"But why? Why do this?"

Rear-Admiral de Bilde, no, not Rear-Admiral de Bilde, just a cyborg now. The cyborg motioned for Phelan to take a seat.

"Phelan, you have to realize that we are a small faction, somewhat like the Nautilus Pirates. Like the Pirates, we have considerable military power, but that is where the similarities end. We do not have the vast seas to expand in like the Pirates. Therefore, we have to expand into the lands of other factions. You know that we, as small factions, need to expand and consolidate our power to have any chance at all of standing up against the larger factions such as the Hive or the Believers.

"When we placed our information on the other factions into our simulators, the simulators projected that we had the largest probability of success against a relatively new faction calling themselves the Free Drones. This probability of success was to be further increased when your Captain Ulrik Svensgaard agreed on a joint attack on the Free Drones, or so we had been led to believe.

"But Svensgaard decided to take his chances and work together with the Free Drones against us. This led to 91% losses incurred during the Free Drone campaign, not to mention the loss of our element of surprise."

Phelan rested his chin on his steepled fingers. "You're driving me around in circles, Rear-Admiral, or whoever you are. If you are really willing to supply me with answers, why don't you start with the reason for your 'resurrection'?"

The cyborg mimicked Phelan's action. "Spoken like a typical human. Very well, Phelan, I shall 'cut to the chase', as you call it. My mission is simple. After this conversation, I will be taken abroad a transport foil, painted in Morganite colors. This transport will then move dangerously close to Nautilus Pirate waters. When the tranport foil is boarded by the Pirates, they will find an unconscious Rear-Admiral Thomas de Bilde in the hold. Rear-Admiral de Bilde will be suffering from amnesia, and will not remember a thing about himself nor the Pirates.

"The pirates will not doubt his story, and will surely claim to have rescued him themselves to claim a larger reward. Sometime after he has been brought back to Safe Haven, Rear-Admiral de Bilde will engineer a sabotage of the Maritime Control Center, neutralizing the Pirate fleets. The Nautilus Pirate bases will then be ours for the taking."

Phelan's temples were thumping. This plan of the Cyborgs was foolproof. Thomas de Bilde had been one of the Landers together with Svensgaard, and was one of the few people Svensgaard trusted implicitly.

Seeing Phelan's silence, the cyborg continued. "It is the only logical thing for us to do. The Free Drones will be anticipating a counter-attack, while the Pirates will not be. Futhermore, from the information that you have 'provided' for us, it would be suicidal to launch a frontal assault on the Pirate bases. The sea is their element, not ours."

"Even though we are not completely human, we are not evil, Phelan. We are just doing what needs to be done for us to survive. Oh, and do not even think of communicating what you have learnt back to your Nautilus Pirate friends. You know what you know simply because you will stay here with us for the time being as a 'guest'. Perhaps, in time, you might even desire to join us."

Almost as an afterthought, the cyborg added, "Remember, you are but a pawn on the chessboard that is Chiron, do not outlive your usefulness or you will be sacrificed."

[Barshy]

"Sister, I..."

"Sean, aren't you in the middle of a probe team operation. Why aren't you underground?" Miriam interjected.

"My radio is still on... Miriam, I believe another faction exists among us on Planet. And it isn't the ship-raiders that Agent Kimball is hunting for right now."

Miriam pondered the implications of the new development briefly. Knowing that a friendship treaty had just been broken, the Believers would have to turn to other means for economic growth. "Is this faction one that we could potentially work out a treaty of friendship with?"

Sean hesitated. "Um... actually, I doubt it. In fact, I fear just the opposite."

"Your intuition serves you well; your fears have been confirmed," came a voice from out of nowhere. Both Miriam and Sean wondered if that was from their own heads.

As if on cue, the screen began to flicker and a face appeared.

"How did you..." Miriam said, knowing that she had to give permission for other leaders to contact her first.

"That is the least of your worries," replied the mysterious figure. Both Miriam and Sean stared in shock. This... faction leader was a mere boy. A boy dressed in fanciful and somewhat ridiculous trappings.

"Minister Yang, I would not insult me if I were you," the boy responded, reading Sean's thoughts. "Greetings, Sister Miriam. My name is Prophet Cha Dawn. Your minister already knows me well." A slight smirk crossed his face.

Completely caught off guard by this new presence, Miriam maintained her resoluteness, mentally shielding her mind from any telepathic waves this... "prophet" would send her way. "I will forgive the blasphemy that is your title, Cha Dawn. What would you want with us?"

"Your bible-thumping followers, Sister, have ravaged the lands of Planet for hundreds of years. The plague that is your kind spreads across this world. You rape Planet, you mock Planet, and I am here to enact Her retribution." His eyes suddenly leveled, gazing at Miriam with his glowing red pupils, as if bringing down the gavel of judgement.

Miriam heard plenty of environmental preaching from Dierdre, but she knew this was different. "Cha Dawn, your insane worship of Planet is ridiculous. You live in a fantasy world, Cha Dawn... a fantasy world of your own creation. Your innate anger at the human environmentalists for not going far enough, has bred in your soul a demonic alter-ego that has created a false god called 'Planet' that you would serve and dedicate your life to. And, unfortunately, you have dragged thousands of others into your drug-induced fantasies, damning their souls for eternity."
Sean stood with awe and admiration that his leader would have the God-given courage to stand up to this boy.

Cha Dawn's eyes glowed furiously red. "YOU would dare speak in such a manner to the Prophet of Planet? You worship that which you cannot see, but, as you will soon find out, what I worship is clearly seen. In fact, I wish to prove to you mortals the awesome power of Planet. Cha Dawn out."

Miriam calmly turned from the screen, her unshakable faith keeping her from worrying. Knowing that Sean clearly did not possess such faith, she remarked, "Sean, God is on our side. That in itself should be enough to calm your spirits. I assume that was what you wished to 'warn' me about. Leave the matter in God's hands."

With that, Sean speechlessly walked out of the office.