“It’ll be two,” Valis said. “The battle plans I sent everyone has them taking their time before the final blow is dealt.”
“Two weeks then,” Daes said. “Take care of yourself.”
“You as well,” Valis said.
Once Daes stepped off it the cord slid back up to the cockpit and the front hatch closed. Dreka appeared on the monitor from the cockpit of his special Talon. Behind him Grigon stood impatiently.
“We’re ready to go anytime,” the birdman said.
“Let’s get on with it!” Grigon shouted.
“I take he doesn’t like being confined in small spaces,” Valis said.
“No,” Dreka said. “He doesn’t like it one bit. We’ll wait at the departure point.”
“I’ll be there in a few minutes,” Valis said.
As his image disappeared Veda’s came on the screen.
“Look out for danger Valis,” Veda said. “The Malcovin world is one run by fear and intrigue.”
“I’ll keep an eye out,” Valis said.
“Alright,” Veda said. “Take care and see you soon.”
“You too,” Valis said.
When the screen went dark she sighed.
“Are they all going to call me to say goodbye?”
It just means they care about you. The Minerva said in text.
“You’re right,” Valis said.
She finished preparations and flew the Minerva outside. After a few minutes she found a single Phase Talon equipped with a light class gravity drive waiting for her. Valis noted the claws on the Talon seemed more flexible and the rifle was different. Dreka appeared on her screen.
“You’ve been working on that thing, haven’t you?” she asked.
“Just a few modifications,” Dreka said. “I spend most of my time on the Gemini these days.”
“I’m glad to have good company,” Valis said. “Let’s go.”
* * *
Brian entered the command center and found Veda and Shiken Ka at work. He took his time checking over the plans Valis sent earlier.
“Have you spoken to their leaders?” Brian asked.
“A few hours ago,” Veda said. “They’d like to meet with you planet side tomorrow.”
Brian looked at the image of Odair Prime. The planet had an eerily similar appearance to Earth. The difference was the positions of the continents were opposite those of the Earth.
“I’d love to,” Brian said.
“They are a people of peace,” Shiken said. “The last time I was here I felt unwelcome not because of their mannerisms but because of the blood on my hands. It’s strange to see people living the way we idealize.”
“It’s hard to be a pacifist,” Brian said. “When others trample over you with military might it’s difficult to not respond with like behavior.”
“You’re awfully philosophical for a pair of atheists,” Veda said.
“Just because I don’t believe in god doesn’t mean I don’t believe in something,” Brian said.
“Gods serve the purpose of creating a morality where mortals can make them on their own,” Shiken said.
“I pray Kali watches over you two as you ponder needlessly about these things,” Veda said.
Brian laughed. “Thanks.”
“I don’t think it’s needless,” Shiken said.
Chapter 33 - A Look at Peace
Brian stepped inside the Artemis while Seles prepared for launch. He started checking things out as she looked up.
“It’s not much different from the Mjolnir,” Seles said.
“It seems smaller,” he said. “I think it’s just me.”
“It is,” she said. “Brian, why didn’t you have another mobile suit made for yourself? I know you can’t berserk but you’re a damn good pilot.”
“The Freedom’s my ship now.” He turned and noticed she was looking at him with a smile. “What?”
“You’re back to yourself, that’s all,” Seles said. “You seemed distant when you came back.”
“I was exhausted,” he laughed, “the last two nights helped.”
“Which of us helped you more?” Seles asked.
Mira appeared on the monitor. “Yes Brian, tell us.”
“Putting me on the spot isn’t helping,” he said. “So I’ll use my usual tactic and change the subject.”
“You’re no fun,” Mira said.
“At least when it comes to making decisions,” Seles said.
“I thought the two of you were alright with it,” Brian said.
“We are,” Mira said. “We’re just making fun of you.”
“It’s so easy to,” Seles said.
Myden appeared on their monitors. “I don’t mean to interrupt your conversation but they’ve given us clearance. Their stipulation is that the only mobile suits they will allow on the surface are the Artemis and Siren. All other vessels will have to be transports or cargo ships.”
“That’s fine,” Brian said. “Take care of her while we’re on the ground Myden.”
“I will,” the Grey said before ending transmission.
“Let’s go,” Brian said. “I’m sure the two of you will want to continue this at a later time.”
“Of course we will,” Mira said.
“I’m with her, you still haven’t given us an answer,” Seles said.
“When the day comes I’ll say something,” Brian said. “Until then I plead silence.”
The two mobile suits flew outside the base. As they descended into the atmosphere of the Odairan home world they were joined by a fleet of transport and cargo ships filled with personnel and supplies. The two mobile suits shifted from humanoid robots to light class ships before entering the atmosphere. When they cleared the way from space to sky they moved towards the largest continent in the southern hemisphere. Despite their technological advancements, Odairan cities revealed little of themselves from the air. Most of their buildings fit into the massive trees that made up the forested surface. A few spires of metal rose above the treetops, as well as a number of landing docks for ships. Now that the Malcovin were gone a number of Odairans from Dega Jul landed with the relief ships. Brian gazed at their naturalistic architecture with a bit of awe.
“It reminds me of the Braiden home world,” Brian said.
“The Odairans value harmony above all things,” Seles said. “It’s beautiful to see it in person again.”
“You were here before?” he asked.
“When I was twelve my mother visited to negotiate a trade treaty,” she said. “Even though the Malcovin were here they weren’t as disruptive at the time.”
“I never knew this before,” he said.
“We visited a few home worlds,” Seles said. “But other than Kalaidia I never thought any of them were as beautiful as this one.”
“It shows what’s in their hearts,” Mira piped in.
“Yes it does,” Brian said.
The two mobile suits found the assigned dock and landed. The small rat people quickly made their way to the incoming ships and secured them to the ground. Brian, Mira, and Seles made sure they weren’t carrying any weapons before opening their hatches. When the three stepped outside each took a deep breath of fresh air. Once they were on the dock an Odairan man ran up to them.
“I am Rekel Ten,” he said. “I’ll be your escort while you’re on the surface.”
“I’m honored,” Brian said. “I’m Captain Peterson of the Freedom.”
Rekel looked at the two Kalaidian women. “As long as you cause no violence you’re welcome to move as you wish.” He turned to Brian. “Shall we be on our way?”
“Of course,” Brian said. He turned to Seles and Mira before leaving. “I’ll see you later.”
“See you,” Seles said.
“And give us an answer,” Mira said.
* * *
Seles and Mira sat inside a small café with drinks in front of them. As each watched the peaceful life the rat people lived their waitress returned.
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“Can I get you anything else?” the old Odairan woman asked.
“We’re fine,” Mira said.
“Thanks though,” Seles said.
“If you need anything just call,” the old woman said before leaving again.
Seles sipped her drink, a fruit mixture with a bit of carbonation added.
“How is it?” Mira asked.
“It’s great,” Seles said. “Our people never put carbonation in their drinks, so it’s an interesting experience.”
Outside, the streets began filling as the morning hours workers gave way to the afternoon shift while their children headed home from school. A number of those getting off work came into the café and sat down for a meal or drink. With them came a number of the non Odairans, including many from Heaven’s Light. Each took their seat or table according to size or body shape. The old waitress was joined by a pair of younger males just getting out of school.
“You look happy,” Mira said.
“This is what we’re trying to create,” Seles said while smiling. “It may be boring for some, but this kind of quiet life works.”
“Your mother took to it,” Mira said.
“She’s on active duty now,” Seles said. “But I know in her heart she’d rather spend her time growing grapes and brewing wine.”
“We should get back to work,” Mira said.
“I’d normally be the one to push but you’re right,” Seles said.
Her and Mira downed their drinks and paid the before leaving. As they walked the streets they came to the area of the city where the Malcovin troops had been stationed. In place of clean streets there was nothing but chemicals and metal. The smell of the area was distinctly different, so much so both Seles and Mira covered their noses. They noticed an old Odairan man standing next to them with a cane in one hand.
“Tis’ a sight to behold,” the old man said. “Soldiers from a foreign world bring nothing but waste and trouble.”
“Isn’t that the way of conquest?” Seles asked.
“True,” the old man said. “I’ve been alive for three centuries, and in those years we’ve been conquered eleven times. Each said they were here to liberate us, and each did nothing but lord over us. But the Malcovin king was the worst of them.”
“What did he do to your people?” Mira asked.
“He didn’t kill us, no, that would cause the Confederation to move in,” the old man said. “But he sent his thugs into the streets, baring arms and machines of waste. He left us alive, but with nothing else. Our wealth and resources have been taken, but our spirits not,” he chuckled, “but people can’t live on spirit alone.”
“We came here to help with that,” Seles said.
“I pray that’s true, but history has taught us otherwise,” the old man said.
Seles knelt down and took his hand, “What we’re searching for is a world like yours. A world filled with peaceful days and happy people. A world where there is no war, no crime, and no hate. The path we take made be different, but the outcome will be the same. I promise to keep that in my heart until the day I die.”
The old man smiled with a toothy grin. “You‘ve grown up,” he started walking away, “take care Lady Daevon.”
The old man disappeared into the maze of back alleys and left Seles looking perplexed.
“He seemed to know you,” Mira said.
“I think that was the former prime minister,” Seles said.
“By the way, good speech,” Mira said.
“I’m working on it,” Seles said as she looked at the nasty area around them. “We should call Jesela down here. This place is a mess.”
Chapter 34 - Relief Mission
Veda and Reban were directing relief ships when Shiken Ka slithered into the room.
“I can relieve you if you’re tired,” Shiken said.
“Thanks,” Veda said. “But we can handle this.”
“It looks like a lot of work,” Shiken said.
“It’s not as much as you think Lord Ka,” she said. “I’ve been the head of the Kein estate for over a hundred years. I know how to run an operation.”
“I don’t question your business sense,” he said. “I was only offering my hand in the work.”
“Are you saying we don’t give you enough work?” she asked.
“In a way,” Shiken said. “I have my own business to attend to, but that can wait.”
“The Odairan government would like someone to lead our people on the ground,” Reban reported.
Veda sighed. “I thought we hired the best.”
“We did,” Shiken said. “But even the best need someone to lead them.”
“Are you volunteering then?” Veda asked.
“I’d be happy to,” Shiken said. “Just give me the place to go.”
“I’ve already sent the location to a shuttle,” Reban said.
“Then I’ll be going,” Shiken said as he moved for the door.
“Remember to leave your blade behind,” Veda said.
“I will,” he said before leaving.
“He looks restless,” Reban said.
“He gets that way,” Veda said.
“I’m glad we’re doing this right now,” Reban said.
“Are you looking to go planet side?” Veda asked.
“I hear their forests great this time of the year,” Reban said.
Veda laughed. “Come back when it’s winter and you’ll feel differently.”
* * *
Brian entered the main government compound with Rekel leading the way. After the two descended a number of levels they came to a pair of doors.
“I will wait for you here Captain Peterson,” Rekel said.
“Thanks,” Brian said.
As he opened the doors he found himself entering a circular chamber with hundreds of seats for the Odairan representatives. Brian went to the center as small podium rose from the floor. After taking his place he looked at the crowd.
“It’s good to see you Captain Peterson,” Yurtis said.
“I’m glad you agreed to speak with me,” Brian said.
“We wanted to see you in person to inquire your request from earlier,” Yurtis said.
“The Malcovin base our organization captured is a prime location as a base for Heaven’s Light,” Brian said. “Because the moon in question has little in resources, we wondered if we could use it.”
“Are you trying to establish a military regime here?” a female minister asked.
“Are you the same as the bird king?” another asked.
A number of the crowd grumbled similar things. After a moment the prime minister rang a buzzer to quiet the room.
“Let him speak,” Yurtis said.
“To answer your question, no,” Brian said. “Our organization only seeks a base in your solar system to prevent invasions in the future. Our goal is to blend into the background so that you can live your lives without interference.”
“What assurances do we have of this?” an older male minister asked.
“We’ll allow you to keep observers onboard the base if you wish,” Brian said. “This includes any ships stationed there, as well as full access to its facilities.”
“This agreement also requires we be able to send outside inspectors on a random basis,” another female minister said. “Otherwise we can’t be sure if our observers are being coerced into telling us what your organization wants them to or not.”
“Agreed,” Brian said. “We will meet any condition you set.”
“Very well,” Yurtis said. “Let’s discuss this and then take a vote.”
* * *
Seles, Mira, and Jesela were at the edge of the former Malcovin district. Jesela held a scanner in her hand and shook her head.
“What is it?” Seles asked.
“They set a ton of traps,” Jesela said. “It’s going to take our engineers a week just to spring them all.”
“I don’t think we have a week,” Mira said.
&nbs
p; “What kind of damage would occur if they went off?” Seles asked.
“It’d take out about half the city,” Jesela answered.
“What?” Seles and Mira asked in unison.
“Gravity engines aren’t as nasty as a gravity drive when the blow up, but they’re bad enough,” Jesela sighed. “This is too much, even for me,” she pressed her com, “Commander Reban, prepare to send down a hundred engineers. Make sure they’re equipped for explosives.”
“I’m on it now lieutenant commander,” Reban answered.
“She called you by your stuffy title,” Mira said.
“I’m used to it,” Jesela said. “Reban reminds me of Zae, without the whole singing thing of course.” The scanner finished its work. “Ah, now we have a map of possible destruction.”
Seles and Mira stepped over to note the districts within the city.
“Lord Ka, are you on the surface yet?” Seles asked after she pressed her com.
“I’m at your beck and call Commander Daevon,” Shiken said.
“We have an unfortunate situation to report,” Seles said. “It appears the Malcovin left us some presents and it could blow up half the city. Jesela will send you the details in a moment.”
“I’m guessing you want me to evacuate the indicated areas,” Shiken said.
“That’d be great,” Seles said.
“We’ll get on it in a few minutes,” Shiken said.
“Thanks,” Seles said before looking at Mira. “Are the medical units ready?”
“I contacted them when you called in Jesela,” Mira said. “We’re ready when you need us.”
* * *
Valis woke up in the back room of the Minerva. As she rubbed her eyes the com blinked. She pressed the button and saw Dreka in the cockpit of the other mobile suit.
“We’re about to jump to the home system,” the birdman said.
“Sorry, I must have overslept,” Valis said.
“No, we’re early,” Dreka said. “Take your time and call us when you’re ready.”
“Alright,” she said before ending transmission.
Freedom Saga 2: Freedom's Bell Page 15