by C. R. Daems
“Yes, work is doubly important at these times. Come, you need food and rest too.” I put my hand on her arm and subtly directed her toward the mess hall.
During the meal, we talked about the engagement. I let her do most of the talking. She needed to work through the mayhem she’d experienced. The shuttle bays were some of the most exposed areas, and Alena had undergone some harrowing moments.
“Are you going to stay, Alena?” I asked.
“Yes, Nadya, like you and Thalia, Quiet night under the moon and I are committed to see the Riss to the stars.”
Alena left when she saw her mechanics getting ready to return to work.
* * * *
On our arrival, the Snowcat was ferried directly to the Elbe repair station, Bacchus, which was in a geostationary orbit some five hundred kilometers from the Elbe space station. Bacchus was a medium-size facility capable of restoring the Snowcat to a functional spaceship, but not to military operational readiness. After those who were still recovering from serious injuries had been transported to the Dyland City hospital, Sakaata called a meeting of her existing staff. To keep the meeting informal, she had a variety of snacks and drinks set up on a table in the back of the room. After everyone had settled, she began.
“The repair manager reported that it’ll take several days for their technicians to assess our damages and to estimate repair cost and time.” Sakaata paused to look around the table. Although she didn’t show it, I knew the pain she must be feeling as she scanned the new faces, reminding her of those who’d paid the ultimate price. “These are civilians and this is a military ship of war; therefore, I want all sensitive areas secured and guarded twenty-four hours a day. If it’s necessary to enter any of these areas, guards will be provided to accompany them at all times. All undamaged quarters will be kept locked. The bridge is strictly off limits.” Sakaata stopped to take a sip of kaffa. “Since I imagine we’ll be here for some time, the XO will workup a schedule, so that everyone gets equal leave time planetside.”
“Skipper,” I interrupted. The Riss had earned the right—forty-nine had died during the battle of Elbe. “The Riss have lived outdoors all of their lives. Although they realize ship confinement is necessary to reach their goals, they would appreciate an opportunity to have some time outdoors. Because they are conspicuous…” That caused smiles and a few snorts. “They will need to be taken to a wilderness or sparsely inhabited area. The Riss and I will stand watch for two weeks in order for all of you to have an extended leave planetside, if I can have equal time for the Riss.” I crossed my fingers, a silly gesture, but I’d have crossed my toes if I could.
“I understand your concern and the need for the Riss to go someplace other than the city, but I’d like senior officers on watch.”
“Captain, I’ll use the conference room for quarters and Thalia will be awake while I’m asleep. That way I’ll be available twenty-four hours a day. Besides, the Riss need the experience. Someday this ship or one like it will be manned by Riss.” I wasn’t sure how that was going to sit with Sakaata. It was an all or nothing gambit. “It might be an advantage since I’d be free to roam the ship, yet someone would be on the bridge at all times.”
“If no one has an objection, I see no reason why we couldn’t try it as a model for future stops. They have certainly pulled their weight, which is a lot,” She grinned. “You’re right, Reese, they can’t just go into town by themselves, and I understand that they are an outdoor race and would not particularly be interested in shopping—or boy friends. We’ll try it on a test basis. I’ll check in now and then to see how it’s working.”
“I like the idea, Skipper. A lot better than a day or two at a time,” Vallar said while others nodded agreement.
“Agreed. Reese, coordinate with Colonel Seng to arrange for guards.”
* * * *
The next day, I went to the gym to work out. To my surprise, Terril was there. I’d expected her to be on planet.
“Well, Master Reese, it’s been a long time. Are you ready for a good workout?”
“Yes, Master Terril.” I hoped a few days working out might help ease the pain. It was certainly preferable to doing nothing. “I’m glad we can’t go anyplace for a month or so. I’m tired of killing and seeing friends die.”
“We’re in the business of war. We hope for a chance to fight to end the boredom, and afterward we hope for boredom. Life’s frequently a contradiction. We want peace and fight wars to obtain it. We kill to stop the killing. I too am tired of seeing friends die.” She turned her head away for a moment, her eyes misty when she turned back. “Maybe a good workout will help.”
We spent the next hour in a mind-numbing contest, oblivious to everything around us. When we finished, I noticed we’d collected a large audience, which included navy personnel. A bond had developed after the carnage. Everyone had worked side by side to keep the Snowcat functioning and save lives. The army audience was quietly clapping; the sailors stood quiet, in shock. As I looked around, it seemed everyone had enjoyed a moment of relief from grieving. Terril and I spent the next hour teaching. Terril had agreed to take on a few new Scorpions. I agreed to take on a few sailors.
“Terril, why aren’t you taking advantage of planet leave? That should help to relieve the boredom,” I said in sympathy.
“The Scorpions liked your planet leave model and Colonel Seng has agreed, so I’m here awaiting my turn and you.”
“I appreciate the thought, Terril. You’ll have a lot more fun without me. I’m planning to take the Riss with me, which will restrict where we can go.” Terril was a real friend, one I cherished. I wanted her with me, but it wouldn’t be right to ruin her leave.
“A few of us thought going planetside would be boring without you. Saipha was certainly fun. With the Riss it should really be exciting.”
“You’re a real friend. I’m very lucky.” I hugged her, not caring what anyone thought. She hugged back, obviously feeling the same.
Chapter 21
The first week went fast. I spent a few hours in the gym each morning, slept my normal six hours a day, and spent the rest of the time on the Bridge or coordinating work parties. Two Scorpions guarded the entrance to the Bridge. R-Kojin and r-Maia manned the bridge while I slept, worked out, or checked on the repair teams and secured areas. I resolved a few issues, consulting with senior officers or chiefs when in doubt. It pleased me to see the Riss involved in the work. The more they learned the sooner the Riss could take to the stars. I logged my daily activities and all items relating to the repairs. Captain Sakaata stopped in at odd times, reviewed my logs, and took her own tour.
“Your idea seems to be working well. I met Palete and Kagle in town, they love you. We’ll have to consider this model on future stops. Since you seem to have everything under control, I think I’ll take the opportunity to relax for a few days. If you need me, you can reach me at the Elbe Grand Hotel. In an emergency, get the ground station to relay you to my SID.”
I watched her on the monitor as she exited the ship and logged her out. The next day, I spent time monitoring the few incoming messages, which the Comm officer usually did, and redirecting them to the right mailboxes. A priority message came in for a Petty Officer Lamsett and I passed it to him immediately. Over the next couple of hours I couldn’t stop thinking about the priority message to Lamsett—something about it felt wrong. I retrieved the system’s copy and put it back up on the screen.
Lamsett,
Your sister is critically ill. Your father is concerned and wishes you could do something about it, but he knows you can’t come to Saipha.
Talk to your four brothers. They are in Elbe.
Love, Mother.
I thought it a bit strange that message originated on Elbe, so I accessed Lamsett’s file. That made the message stranger than before. He wasn’t from Saipha. He was from Echo in the Darkov section.
< Could be. What could he do to help his sister, who is critically ill?>
< Could be. Why are his four brothers in Elbe?>
“Yes, Commander,” she said formally.
I guessed she didn’t know who might be with me. Besides, what was she supposed to call me while on duty—hey Nadya?
“I’m declaring a Ship Emergency; however, alert only Scorpions. I want all contractors escorted off the ship. You should consider each of them armed and dangerous. No one is to enter the ship without my personal permission, including the Captain. Petty Officer Lamsett is to be arrested on sight.”
Even if I’m right, I’m probably overacting. This is probably going to get me demoted or worse.
“Nadya, you damn well wait there until I get an escort to you.” She clicked off. I decided she was right. I paced the floor waiting. I heard shooting and drew my shard gun. Thanks to Terril, I actually knew how to use it with some degree of competency. She’d literally forced me to take lessons after the incident at Sparrows Nest where we were attacked planetside by a group of men. We weren’t carrying any weapons at the time because of the city ordinances. They were. Terril and I got separated. While on my own, I managed to get hold of a shard gun, but fortunately, I was rescued before I’d been forced to use it. Probably a good thing, since like most sailors I was minimally qualified with one.
“Commander Reese, it’s Gunny Terril,” the voice on the other side of the door said. I released the lock and stepped into the corridor. One Scorpion was on the ground injured and two civilians lay dead. She pointed. “One was carrying a military grade rocket gun, the other a five-centimeter laser.”
“Have you found Lamsett yet?” I asked as I began running down the corridor towards his room.
“We have a fire fight near the entrance to the missile bay.” Terril paused. “Two more civilians are dead. Both carried laser and shard guns. They found Lamsett just down the hall,” she whispered.
I began running faster. When I turned the corner, I saw two guards holding Lamsett, and r-Anath lying in a pool of blood. I knelt and touched her.
“NOOO!” I took two steps in Lamsett’s direction when all my muscles froze, and I collapsed.
“Reese, are you all right?” Terril asked. I could feel her warn breath on my face. I couldn’t talk.
<“I stop her.”> In my head I heard Thalia speaking for me, using my voice.
“I’m speaking to Thalia?” Terril’s voice trembled.
<“Take Lamsett away.”>
“Why did you stop her?”
<“Not Riss way.”>
“You heard the Commander. Take him to the brig. Post a guard on him, and no visitors.”
“What about a doctor, Gunny? When Lamsett ran, the Riss was faster than us and chased him. He shot her several times as he ran, but as the r-Anath fell, she shredded Lamsett’s calves. We’ve applied tourniquets, but—”
“Take him to the brig. After he’s been secured, call the medics. Tell them there’s no rush as you’ve stopped the bleeding.”
“Yes, Gunny. I’m sure his injuries look much worse than they are. I’ll send someone to clean up the mess.”
I was lying there, tears streaming down my face, wanting to thrash and scream, but I couldn’t move. I felt Terril holding me tight, her face against mine.
Mercifully, I passed out.
Chapter 22
When I woke, I lay on my bunk, and Terril sat in my chair.
“Am I under arrest?” I asked. Terril must be guarding me. I was surprised I wasn’t in the brig or the hospital in restraints. I didn’t care. R-Anath was dead, and it was my fault.
“I don’t think so.”
“Why are you here?”
“Can’t I visit a good friend? Although I admit, you haven’t been too talkative. The Captain said he’d like to see you in his office, after you’ve rested, washed, and had a good meal. You’ve been resting for eight hours. I guess all you need to do now is wash and eat.”
“Thank you, Terril. You’re a good friend.”
I washed and dressed in a clean dress uniform. If the Captain wanted to see me, I should be formally dressed. Terril and I went to the one and only functional mess hall and ate. Then, reluctantly, I went to the captain’s office. Terril started to leave when the Captain acknowledged my knock.
“Gunny, don’t leave,” Sakaata said.
We entered and saluted.
“Relax and sit. I’ve looked at the two monitors that you were examining before you called a Ship Emergency. At first I didn’t understand, until I began to see the many inconsistencies. I’m afraid none of us would have noticed anything wrong. I’m curious, why did you say not to admit me?”
“I didn’t want you hurt. If the killers were inside, I didn’t want anyone else exposed to them.”
“I understand Thalia took control of you. Why?”
“Because I wanted to rip Lamsett’s throat out. She stopped me.”
“Why?”
“Because revenge isn’t the Riss way.”
“Yes, the Riss aren’t what they appear. I’d never really talked with a Riss. When I heard what had happened I called r-Maia and r-Kojin into my office and took the time to listen. I learned that it isn’t the Riss way to kill except to defend the Riss—not themselves. I told them that didn’t make sense, since r-Anath tore half way through his legs with her claws. She knew he wouldn’t survive without medical intervention. And he wouldn’t have if the guards hadn’t applied tourniquets to both legs. R-Maia said the Riss named you the River that runs between two Mountains and explained that you were the Riss’ future; therefore, any Riss would die to protect you. To kill for you was to kill to protect the Riss.” She took a sip of water as she stared at me.
I couldn’t help it, I cried.
It made no sense, yet it made sense. Nevertheless, I wanted to lie down and pull the covers over my head.
“I now understand your love of the Riss. I was amazed at their idea of operating a starship. They told me there would be no rank, and no one in charge. Each Riss would have a job that she did for the good of the ship. The Captain was just another job. I would love to be on that ship. I’m sure most humans couldn’t understand that concept or how it could work. They are definitely a race worth saving and will make good allies.”
“I’ll have to convene an inquiry,” Sakaata said after a long pause. “It will have to involve everyone on the ship, because you called a Ship Emergency. However, I believe you…and Thalia…acted appropriately.”
* * * *
The inquiry took two full days. Every Scorpion, sailor, and contractor was questioned. The conclusion was that everyone acted appropriately.
Afterward, I found myself sitting back in the Captain’s office.
“I have a personal favor, which I believe will work to your advantage. Elbe’s ruling families would like to meet a Riss-human and a Riss. For that favor, they will arrange for you, the Riss, and any guests to vacation at their back country retreat. It’s near a small town, lots of snow, and thousands of hectares of wilderness,” Sakaata said and smiled. “In return, the navy gets good will and cooperation.”
“Ma’am, I would do it for either reason. I endure for the Riss, and I owe the SAS for the opportunity.”
* * * *
<
br /> The next evening, the Captain, his staff, Terril and an escort, r-Kojin, and I were shuttled to the Head of the families’ hundred and eighty thousand square meter mansion. We arrived in dress whites and were escorted to a medium sized reception room. Two women and four men stood in the middle of the room, dressed formally. The men wore black shoe length pants and short waistcoats with metals and decorations. White shirts closed at the neck, prominently displayed a red ribbon holding a gold medallion—each different. They probably designated their official capacity or family. The women were wearing long low-cut gowns of varying colors, matching silk-like embroidered jackets, and lots of jewelry on their arms and around their necks.
The environment, however, appeared informal. When we entered, they were gathered in a small group, standing with drinks in hand. I couldn’t help but smile at their expressions when they saw us. A few actually took a step backward. R-Kojin was the attraction, but I got all the questions. They were fascinated with the idea that I was carrying a Riss inside me and how she got there. There was some discussion of the raider’s infiltration of the Snowcat and subsequent action. After two hours of questions, they took us into the hall where another fifty people waited with the same questions. I moved from being an attraction to a battle veteran when a few people recognized the metals I wore. When the evening ended, they arranged for several shuttles to take us to their retreat. I have to admit, the visit was fun and provided a pleasant diversion.
* * * *
Thirty-one Riss, Alena, Terril, eight Si’jin students, and I arrived at the Elbe Valley retreat the next day—Elissa and Jaelle were still recovering from their wounds. We were the town’s main attraction the first day and everything was free.
“Terril, tomorrow Alena and I are going into the mountains with the Riss. They desperately need the time outdoors.”
“I don’t know if I can take another adventure with you for a while. You do seem to attract some shady characters. Nevertheless, I’m going along but I’d like to leave the Scorpions here in town. They look like they’re having fun.”