by Ben Winston
"That's what the rest of us are here for, Greg. Since I had a general idea of what you wanted up here, we've been working to make it happen. We're almost to the point where you won't have to worry about the civilian side of things anymore. That's our immediate goal right now; to free you up to focus solely on getting the Alliance built and getting us ready to defend ourselves."
The door chime had rung while Carl had been speaking, so he got up to answer it. Very shortly, he escorted Jarad and Sharon into the living area as well. Luckily, Carl had two large couches, a love seat, and a large recliner.
After everyone greeted each other. Carl told the newcomers what they had been discussing. Greg grinned at his father. "It looks like you might get a new job, Dad!"
Smiling, Jarad replied. "I'm not so sure I like the sound of this!"
"Actually, it's right up your alley. We need someone to take charge of security, separate from the military," Greg said.
"Didn't you guys want us for Ranger training or something?" Sharon asked.
Greg nodded. "Actually, we would like one of you to fly one of the simulators while the medical folks test a theory. Abraxis discounted you both as potential Rangers because of your age based on information he had on 'type three humanoids'. However, we didn’t experience the same effects as those in his data stores. If you can fly a sled simulator through a hyperjump, then we'd like to see if you can do it for real. If you can, then Abraxis' data on us is incorrect and you can both become Rangers."
"Okay, but if we become Rangers, then what about the security thing?" Jarad asked.
Greg smiled. "Can you think of anyone better suited for it? Besides, you don't have a complete team yet, so using our abilities and skill to keep us secure would be good duty don't you think?"
"Actually, that sounds pretty smart," Sharon said, proud of her son. "Does that mean we'll get the use of the Rangers that have not made a team?"
"It might be a good addition to training. However, if this works out, we might need Sharon to fly as a member of the new team - temporarily. In fact, I'd like to get the tests out of the way as soon as possible so you can go through training with them," Greg replied. "That being said, I'd feel better if Jarad remained as Security Chief, at least for the time being."
"Okay, but since we're eventually going to become Rangers, I'd like to make Lionel my second instead of Sharon. That way I can train him to take over when the time comes. He has all the instincts for the job and would have made a damn good agent. Is that okay with you, Sweetheart?" Jarad asked his wife.
"Yeah, I was going to suggest it anyway, especially if I need to help out the other team," Sharon said. "It makes sense, but I should warn you, Jarad and I do work best when we're together."
Greg nodded. "That's fine, Mom. It may well be that you and the new Rangers won't even get along. I am only asking for you to go through training with them, not to serve as their Pilot unless you do decide to remain with them."
"What will happen if we do find another pilot for them? Part of training is building the bonds a team needs for combat," Jolene asked.
"The same thing that would happen if one of us was killed. The team would as a whole would go through a type of refresher in order to bond with each other," Greg said. "The Onarians will be going through that very soon. Which reminds me, we need to figure out a way to help patrol their area while they are out."
"With respect Greg, that is not necessary, my sensors will inform us if there is any activity in the sector," Abraxis replied.
"I understand that, Abraxis. But what we are facing now has never happened before. This is a unique situation, and I don't want to take any chances with anyone's safety," Greg replied. "We can't afford to assume we know what's going to happen. We're going to have to be as vigilant as we are going to have to support and stand together, or the Drellians will roll right over us."
"I understand," Abraxis replied thoughtfully. "You really are growing into your responsibilities, Fighter. Your dedication to the safety of those you are sworn to protect will be an inspiration to the other races. I'm very pleased that I have been given the opportunity to work with you."
Greg smiled. "Thank you Abraxis. But it isn't just me; this is a group effort. It's all of us - you included."
"I'm proud of you too, Greg. You've come a long way in a very short amount of time; all of you have," Jarad said. "I'm certain that your biological father would be proud of you as well. I know Mandi's mother would be."
Sharon nodded her head. "We all are. Even Bella and Jolene's parents are so proud of you all. You should hear them tell stories about you!"
All four Rangers were blushing. "Okay, okay, we got sidetracked!" Bella said. "So what needs to happen next?"
"Well," Greg said thoughtfully. "Carl, did we get anyone that could serve in a diplomatic roll?"
"Yes and no, we haven't gotten anyone that actually was a diplomat, but we do have people that would be good at it. I'll have to speak to them and see if they're interested in the job," Carl replied.
"Please do, we're going to need to get this Alliance started before everything gets out of hand. In order to do that, we're going to need ambassadors and diplomats. I seem to have a pretty good rapport going with the other teams, but I haven't spoken to anyone in their governments. If we're going to build a military that consists of more than just the Ranger teams, we're going to have to work that out with the governments, not just the other teams," Greg replied. "I will speak to the other Rangers about getting recruitment started, but it will have to be something handled by each planet."
"So, how do we handle that then? We don't have the support of our governments," Jolene asked.
"The same way we'll handle everything else, Jolly. We'll appeal directly to the people of the planet. We'll recruit soldiers and naval personnel the same way we have been recruiting everyone else. We'll post the notice for employment on our web site," Carl replied. "Security will check them out, our recruiters will interview them, and arrange transportation to the base."
"Speaking of the base, when will construction begin on it?" Greg asked.
"The Design is still being finalized, but once that's done, the drones will get to work," Carl replied, but paused. "You know, we could ask the Greynus to build it. If they need to get their hives off planet, this just might help them."
Greg nodded. "I'll speak to them first thing in the morning. If they agree, I'll call Delion and get transportation for them. I need to call Delion anyway so she can get the cargo ships moving. I've been told that some of our people have expressed an interest in that sort of thing. Have you considered building the freighters for them?"
"We have, but for now, the mining and mining support ships have priority. We just don't have the capacity for multiple projects yet. Speaking of building ships, what are you going to do about Hypersleds?" Carl asked.
"I have the schematics and will be starting their assembly in the Ranger area. At present, we have our team's sleds as well as three extra. However, I will begin construction on three more as soon as I finish updating the new sleds," Mandi replied. "I'll get with Abraxis tomorrow and work up a training schedule for Arless as well."
Greg nodded. "Okay, we're going to need to build the military from the ground up. We're going to need a training command as well as Marine and Naval command sections. We also need designs to be submitted for the fleet; everything from fighters to Dreadnoughts."
Jarad nodded. "You're going to need a training cadre; drill instructors for the Marines, flight instructors, tech and support personnel; the whole enchilada."
"Well, it's not enchilada's, but dinner is served," A smiling woman replied from the door into the kitchen.
When everyone just looked at Carl, he grinned. "Everyone, I'd like you to meet Florence Henderson; no, she is no relation to the other Florence Henderson. Flo, I'd like you to meet our protectors and my friends." Carl proceeded with introductions, and Greg got the distinct impression there was more going on between the restauran
t owner and the Governor than being just friends. She was, however, an exceptional cook and the food was really excellent. The serious discussions were set aside for the time being in order to share the wonderful meal in the company of good friends.
Alpha Team Residence
Grimaldi Ridge Base
Ocean of Storms
Selene, Earth's Moon
When Greg spoke to the Greynus Fighter, he discovered two things; first, that he was actually a she and second, that they were very excited and would be more than happy to come immediately and assist the Terrans in constructing the new Military base. She informed Greg that if it would be allowed, they could also design and begin construction on the ore processing facilities.
Greg got Carl involved in the call and he discussed any special needs they might have and also asked if the facilities they had already built would be large enough as well as comfortable enough for her people.
She was overjoyed and impressed that so much work and thoughtfulness had been given to her people's comfort. She thanked both men for their hard work and consideration. She assured them that a hive cluster would be ready for relocation as soon as transportation could be arranged. Carl also asked for at least one individual to be sent as well in order to serve on his staff to make sure their people had everything they would need.
The Fighter bowed to him and said she would make sure of it. When the call ended, Carl was not only impressed, but looking forward to meeting the new race, even though he was intimidated by the thought of large insects joining their colony. When Greg asked if it was going to cause a problem with the people, Carl shook his head.
"No, we've been working hard on a publicity campaign that has been informing our folks of the different races and their customs. We even had Abraxis project holographic Greynus and other races into the common areas so people would get used to seeing them around as well as interacting with them. At first, there was some initial shock and fear, but people adjusted pretty quickly. I think some of them even forgot they were actually talking to Abraxis instead of a real Greynus or Onarian," Carl explained.
"That was smart thinking, most of the other races do have experience dealing with other races, but not all of them do. I might just suggest the same method be offered to them if it looks like interaction might be possible," Greg replied. "So, now all I have to do is call Fighter Delion and see if we can get the Greynus a ride here and see if they can start moving cargo for us. I'll try to get all of this handled before we leave."
"You know, this patrol you and the girls are going on is pretty poorly timed; we need you here," Carl said.
"I know there is a lot to be done Carl, but the patrols are just as important. Besides, there really isn't a lot for us to do here until we get the mining operations up and running and have the people we need to get the training going. More than anything, though, I'm trying to set a precedent and show the other teams that we need to help each other just as much as we need to help our own people. The Onarians can't patrol yet, and they are in a very bad position, spatially. We're deeper in the sector, but they are right on the edge," Greg explained.
"Yeah, I know and agree with you. It's just that having you gone for a week or more is going to be a real pain in the butt," Carl said.
"Well, it'll get easier, Governor," Greg grinned as he used the older man's title. "We're getting more Rangers trained, and pretty soon doing patrols will be just another mundane, boring duty."
Carl grinned back but nodded in agreement with Greg. "Don't forget to ask for a transportation coordinator as well. Abraxis said they live just like we do, so they wouldn't need anything special as far as living quarters and the like."
"I will,” Greg replied. "Last time I spoke to her, she said her government was excited at the prospect of opening trade with another race, so we might be getting more than just the coordinator."
"That's fine, as long as they don't invade us," Carl replied. "If they want to send a couple of extra people, that shouldn't be a problem. In fact, I'll talk to Abraxis about getting set up to host folks from the other races as well. Getting the trade goods might be an issue to begin with, but once the money starts flowing, I think the governments down there will get with the program, at least economically."
Greg nodded. "Just make sure no one makes a deal to transfer any advanced tech to Earth. I don't like the need for it, but the planet would pretty much kill itself if it had the tech to do so."
Carl snorted, "I don't think they’re going to need the help. They seem to be doing a pretty good job of it now!"
Greg sighed. "What did I miss now?"
Carl shook his head. "North Korea is building up their forces at the DMZ and claiming that the US has built a military base on the moon as a first step to taking over the rest of the world. The U.N. is trying to calm them down, but this is North Korea we're talking about.
"China has also accused the United States of invading its sovereign territory, as this portion of the moon was claimed by them, which it wasn't. It had been claimed by the former Soviet Union before it fell, but no one claimed this area afterward. I've been expecting a call from the Secretary General any time. Then of course there are the religious nuts in the Middle East; Pakistan and India are back to their old rivalries - which at least they are not blaming on us," Carl said. "But most of South America is supportive of us; Peru even went so far as to officially recognize us as a nation. You know, you really should watch CNN more."
Greg shook his head. "Five minutes of that, and I either want to cry or puke. It’s crazy how stupid those governments can be. Everyone knows we have nothing to do with the United States Government!" Greg replied. "So, are you planning to do anything about it?"
Carl shrugged. "We're increasing recruitment in the other nations. We have been granted 'safe' landing rights in Brazil, Peru, Columbia, and all of the rest of the South American countries except for Panama, Venezuela and Guyana. In fact, Argentina has asked what they can do to assist us. I handed it over to Jarad, since I thought it might just be a ploy to get their hands on some of our tech, but at least they offered."
"You know, I seem to remember seeing some advanced geological stuff in Abraxis' database. You might want to see if any of the bright boys down in the labs would be willing to offer them advanced warning on Earthquakes and such. Honestly, I don’t know if that's even possible, but it sure can't hurt to look. If we can help them like that, without actually giving them any technology, that could really help folks down there," Greg suggested.
"Damn good idea!" Carl said and made note of it. "I'd bet my left nut there is a lot of stuff like that we could start doing for folks. Even more accurate weather forecasting would help. Say, you never told me what you thought about letting the newsies up here."
"If Jarad says they're clean, I don't mind as long as they agree to behave themselves. One screw up though, and they're gone. Be careful, the U.S. is notorious for getting spies in place as news correspondents," Greg replied.
"That isn't just a U.S. trick, Greg," Carl replied. "Okay, I'll let you go so you can finish your calls. Let me know what you find out."
After talking to Carl, Greg got a refill of coffee and called Ranger Fighter Delion.
"Fighter Greg, it is an honor to speak to you again," Delion said by way of greeting.
"The honor is mine, Delion. How are your people?" Greg asked.
"We are well, my friend. Thank you." She smiled at him. "Abraxis tells me you have been very busy. You will be leaving this day for a patrol of Onarian space?"
Greg nodded and explained his thoughts to her about the need to increase their vigilance and the need for patrols.
"Yes, this has been of great concern to me as well. I believe we should speak to the rest of our comrades about this. All of us should be as vigilant and assist each other as much as possible. The Drellians can be far too clever, and as you said, this is a new situation we have found ourselves in. I feel we should also be thinking about a method of making contact with
other sectors close to ours to determine if they are Drellian or not. If we are surrounded by enemies, we may have more to worry about than originally believed. Even if we had the sacred code spoken of by Abraxis, our survival might be in the balance," Delion replied.
"I agree. But surrounded or not, we can't let them win. We will find a way to hold them back, then we will find a way to defeat them. The Drellians have had their way for far too long in this galaxy. It's time for the people to determine their own destinies once again," Greg replied.
She smiled at him. "That's what I like about you; for a male, you have some serious fangs on you."
Greg grinned back at her. "Before we get into that, I have a couple of requests to pass on to you."
She looked surprised. "Requests? From who?"
"Our Governor, Carl Hollister. I believe you've met him?" Greg asked.
"Ah, no, I did not meet him, but I did communicate with him about the requirements of our freighters," Delion replied. "As you have called him your governor, may I assume you got the issues with your leaders corrected?"
Greg shook his head. "No, the planet's leaders are still too immature to work with us. We moved our base to the planet's natural satellite and appealed directly to the people of the planet. That appears to have been the right thing to do since we are making a lot of progress.
"Governor Hollister has asked me to pass on to you an invitation for your freighters to begin moving the foodstuffs we spoke of to the Greynus homeworld. I have also received a request from the people of Greynus for the transportation of a hive cluster to our location. Both requests are at your earliest convenience.
"Governor Hollister has also told me that he would welcome a small trade envoy from your people, although we might have difficulty obtaining trade items in large quantities for the time being," Greg finished.
Delion chuckled. "You have been making progress. I will of course send the ships for the Greynus immediately. It may well be that those same ships will be used to transport the goods back to their home world.”