by T. R. Harris
“I have an asset in the Polimor military which I’ll call upon.” He raised his hand to stop the approaching question. “Don’t ask. It’s best if you don’t know. Now, my love, go manage my war for me while I deal with Adam Cain and his team of bloody Crusaders.”
165
Adam was furious when he learned that the members of his team had named the gigantic warship he was in after him. He found it impossible to go around calling the ship The Cain without laughing. Although he knew there were already a fair number of Human ships which bore his name, he’d never been aboard one, and he wasn’t about to start now.
“So what do you suggest we call her?” asked Sherri Valentine in a huff. It had been her idea to name the ship after Adam and now she was insulted.
“The other one is the Goliath—because it’s really huge. So let’s call this one the Leviathan.”
“Do you even know what a leviathan is?”
“Contrary to your belief, I did go to college—for a while. I’m not a complete idiot, Sherri. A leviathan is a giant mythical sea creature.”
“Good for you,” she said with a scowl. “You probably had to look it up before coming in here and raising such a fuss.”
Adam could feel his face turning red, embarrassed by the truth the fiery blonde had just revealed, even if he didn’t admit it out loud. She knew him too well.
“Now that we’ve covered all the truly important topics, why don’t we move onto more trivial matters—like deciding on our next plan of action.” Admiral Andy Tobias had switched to his interior command voice, one that was clear and soft, yet firm and decisive, and laced with just the right amount of sarcasm.
Adam sat back in his chair and began to pout. It had been a week since his rescue and with each passing day his physical strength was returning, if not his mental strength. He fought the demons constantly, and at night—alone in his cabin—he kept a dim light on, mimicking the conditions of his stark cell aboard Nigel’s flagship. Even though the nightmares didn’t come during his captivity, he had experienced two horrific episodes over the past few nights, almost to the point where he was afraid to close his eyes and attempt to fall asleep. He was worried that the condition would worsen. He knew this to be post-traumatic-syndrome and a lot of his fellow sailors from the SEALs suffered from the same affliction to some degree.
In his arrogance, Adam tried to work through the condition without outside help, saying that it was caused by a man—Nigel McCarthy—and nothing more. He had been associated the sadistic Brit for almost twenty years, so this should be nothing new to Adam, and yet the nightmares had scared him much more than they should have. Fortunately, the alien doctors aboard the Leviathan didn’t question his need for drugs to help him sleep—and alien drugs were the best. At first he resisted taking them, but now he saw no alternative. If he was to regain his edge, he needed rest, and if the nightmares were going to interfere with that then they had to be controlled.
He took the opportunity to look around the rectangular table at the other attendees to the strategy meeting. Sherri Valentine was seated next to him, with her now ex-lover Riyad Tarazi seated across from her. They appeared to have worked out their differences, just as Sherri and Adam had. He had tried not to pry into the reasons for the breakup, but just from what Sherri intimated it had something to do with Riyad’s religious beliefs and his treatment of women. Adam was surprised that Riyad still clung to his religion, if only superficially. Adam wasn’t one to criticize, especially not after what he’d been through. After all, he knew the Devil existed—in the being of Nigel McCarthy—so why shouldn’t there be a balancing God?
As he continued around the table, Adam saw that Commander-One Qwels Nur and his brother Nurick were present. As the leader of the surviving Polimor space fleet, Qwels was a logical choice to be here, yet his brother was a civilian, and so that was unusual; however, Adam had learned that Dracus had personally insisted Nurick attend, to serve as a calming influence on his brother.
While Kroekus had been alive and running the show from aboard the Goliath, Qwels had stood in awe of the huge Silean, not only because of his wealth and track record of success, but also because the massive galaxy that dominated the Tanic night sky was named after his people, the Sileans. Adam knew at some point the record would have to be corrected, but since the Sileans had made first contact with the inhabitants of the Tanic Galaxy over five hundred years before, it only made sense that their galaxy of origin would begin to be referred to as Silea.
Yet the real complication for the meeting came from the introduction of more Humans into the mix. Qwels and Nurick were both in awe of Adam as well—even though that respect had been earned through experience. Yet here was another Human—someone they called an Admiral—who others had assigned command authority upon. How Qwels would react to this new wrinkle in the chain of command was anyone’s guess, and it was Nurick’s job to make sure his brother accepted the new status quo.
Someone Adam was truly surprised to see at the table was Qwels’ former second-in-command, Mios Valnon. Since Qwels’ promotion to command of the entire Polimor fleet, Mios had taken over the four-hundred-ship fleet Qwels had once commanded. None of the other five regional commanders were in attendance, and Adam wondered why this impossibly thin creature had been singled out. There had originally been eight secret fleets—each with their own commander—yet through attrition in battle, fleet numbers had been reduced to where only thirty-two hundred ships remained out of the full force of over five thousand. The surviving units had been divided into six fleets, with Qwels as the Commander-One of the entire force.
Yet most-troubling to the war effort was the fact that no new ships were being built to replace those lost in battle. The writing was plastered clearly across the wall, yet no one at the table was willing to read it aloud.
For his part, Nigel McCarty wasn’t suffering from any of the problems that plagued the Polimors. As a matter of fact, with the Kiran Clan controlling most of the manufacturing facilities in the galaxy, they were churning out new ships at a rate of ten per day. Given another year, Nigel McCarthy and the Kiran’s would be an unstoppable force within the Tanic Galaxy.
“Well, it’s obvious we cannot wait to act,” said Riyad Tarazi to start the meeting. “The enemy grows stronger by the day, while the forces of good only grow weaker.”
“If I may speak,” said Qwels Nur. Adam held his breath, waiting to hear what the Vicorean had to say. “Although I appreciate the assistance the Humans are offering—along with this magnificent warship—I cannot see how you could possibly understand the dynamics at work within Tanic, seeing that you have only recently arrived.”
“And that is why we welcome your professional input, Commander-One Nur,” said Andy Tobias. “However, I must stress—even to our embarrassment—that we Humans have much more experience at the art of war. And the fact that the leader of the Kiran Clan is a Human does qualify us for the leadership role.”
“I do acknowledge that, Admiral Tobias; however, I must also stress that the Polimors have a tendency to mistrust other-worlders, especially those from the Silean Galaxy. It was difficult enough to maintain order when the Silean Kroekus was in command, even with him being the catalyst behind the construction of the fleet. And this ship you now command was built by him and not by Humans. It may be hard to convince others to follow more other-worlders.”
“My brother, these are beings who are much more advanced in fighting skills than we are,” said Nurick. “They may be foreigners, yet they have come here to help us against an enemy that will surely destroy us if not stopped. We must accept all the help we can get if we are to survive as a Clan.”
“I understand that, Nurick, all I am expressing is reality. I will accept the command authority of Admiral Tobias, as long as I believe it to be in the best interest of the Clan.”
“Fair enough,” Andy said, anxious to get through this part of the meeting. “And you must believe me when I say we—the ones seated at this ta
ble—are not looking for a long-term involvement in your affairs. All we seek is the elimination of Nigel McCarthy. After that, we’re going home.”
“That goal would be most satisfying, especially since it is one of your kind who has brought such upheaval to my galaxy. The fact that one creature could so influence an entire galaxy is almost beyond comprehension, even though we have all been witness to it firsthand.”
“Unfortunately, Commander-One, our history is ripe with stories of individuals who have had terrible and tragic influence over the masses.” Andy looked around at all the faces watching him from around the table. “We’re here to remedy the situation as best we can.”
He then turned to the only Rigorian in the room, the captain of the newly christened Leviathan, a creature named Rolic Krin. “Captain, we have to find a place to hide the Leviathan. It’s a sure bet that McCarthy will send out everything he can spare in an effort to find us.”
“Agreed.” The word sounded as if it had been spoken from the bottom of a well, originating in the huge lungs of the lizard-like creature and then traveling up the long neck, only to escape through the long jaws and pointed teeth of the intimidating beast. “We have identified a small globular cluster about seven hundred light-years from here with a secure inner region. The gravity wake of the JN—I mean the Leviathan—will be obscured by the background radiation of the cluster. Yet is it our intention to hide, or is it to fight, Admiral?”
“We intend to fight, Captain Krin. But that will involve coordinating with Commander-One Nur and his forces. McCarthy knows we’re in the galaxy, so he’ll hunker down on this capital planet in the deepest bunker they have and then surround the planet with an impenetrable shield of warships.”
“What about the Goliath?” Dracus asked. “McCarthy took possession of the ship and has been in the process of repairing it since the battle. It should be nearing completion.”
“That could be a game-changer—a deciding influence—so it would be best to strike before the ship is operational again.”
“And yet the Leviathan is also not at full strength,” Kaylor spoke for the first time. “The electromagnetic pulse resulting from the dark matter drive has depleted many of the weapons batteries. It will take time for them to recharge. And then Commander-One Nur must coordinate his forces as well. With the first ship—the Goliath—soon to operational, we may not have time to strike before then.”
“And then what do we strike?” asked Riyad. “Do we blast into the Anicett system and lay siege to the entire planet? Even killing several billion creatures will not guarantee McCarthy is one of them.”
“These are all very good questions,” said Andy Tobias. “Our original mission was Adam’s rescue. This new mission is a work in progress, but it’s obvious we need to have eyes on McCarthy and then structure a mission around that.”
“We could just go home.” Adam’s comment caused a few around the table to gasp.
“And leave McCarthy alive?” Sherri asked.
“He’s out of the Milky Way and out of our affairs. He’s getting older and eventually natural causes will put an end to his miserable life. I say cut our losses and go home.”
“For my part, I find that totally unacceptable, Adam,” Riyad remarked. “I didn’t come all this way—and in such a powerful weapon—just to turn away when our final victory is so close.”
“From the comments around the table, that victory is not so close or guaranteed.”
“I’m afraid leaving the galaxy at this point is not an option,” said Andy Tobias. “Riyad’s right; we’ve come a long way, and we can’t leave until we’ve taken a crack at Nigel McCarthy. We may learn at some point that the cause is futile, but until that time, this new mission is a go.”
“Aye aye, sir. I was just pointing out an alternative.”
“And from what you’ve just been through, it’s perfectly understandable. And if you’d rather sit this one out while you recover—”
“Hell no, sir! If you’re going in, then we’re all going in.”
“Good, then it’s settled.” Tobias looked around the table. “First order of business, we get to a safe haven and bring the Leviathan up to full operational readiness. After that…we go kick some McCarthy ass!”
166
Mios Valnon was in a panic. He had fully expected to see Eric McCarthy at the meeting, yet he had been absent. Fortunately, luck was with him when he spotted the smaller version of Nigel McCarthy sitting alone in the Consumptionary.
The Lord of the Clan had tasked him with determining the loyalty status of his offspring, yet Mios had to be very careful not to draw too much attention to his activities. If Eric was indeed a reluctant accomplice, then anyone affiliating with him could be also classified as a Kiran sympathizer.
Mios ordered a race-appropriate meal and then carried the tray to a table next to the young Human. He was always amazed at how small and frail Humans looked up close, yet he knew this to be an illusion. And now there were even more of them within his galaxy.
Eventually Mios and the alien made eye contact, and the Human frowned at the locked stare Mios sent him.
“Is there a problem?” Eric McCarthy asked with testiness in his voice.
“Forgive me,” said Mio, “but it is rumored that the offspring of the Kiran Clan leader is aboard the ship. Since I have seen images of Lord McCarthy, I have to assume you are he?”
“You have assumed correctly, for what good it does.” Eric resumed consuming his meal.
“I do not understand; you seem to be depressed by the reality.”
“When you’re surrounded by a ship full of five thousand creatures all sworn to the death of your father, you’d be depressed, too.”
“And yet Lord McCarthy is our enemy; is he not yours as well?”
“Of course, it’s just that no one seems to believe me.” Eric McCarthy pulled away from the table and exposed his right ankle to Mios. There was a small device attached.
“They keep track of me wherever I go, and they even hold meetings without me present.”
“I noticed you were not in the strategy meeting.”
Eric looked hard at Mios, who suddenly grew very nervous with the scrutiny. “You were at the meeting?” Eric asked. “Who are you?”
“I am Second-Commander Mios Valnon, leader of the Third Compliment Fleet for the Polimor Clan.”
“That sounds impressive, although I don’t know what any of that means.”
“It means I am part of the force that will attempt to eliminate your birth father.”
Eric pursed his lips and nodded. “You and everyone else.”
“You should not feel badly, Eric McCarthy. Your birth father has accomplished much since his arrival in Tanic. Feats such as those should not be dismissed lightly.”
“You sound like you’re a supporter of his, which is very strange for a fleet commander.”
“I am a loyal Polimor, Eric McCarthy, yet that does not preclude me from admiring accomplishment.”
Eric looked around the room to see if anyone was watching. There were eyes on him—as there always were—but nothing out of the ordinary. He turned back to Mios. “I’m heading for the observation deck, Level Twenty. It’s more private up there and no one is looking at me. I find I can think more freely.” He pushed away from the table and stood. “It’s been enjoyable speaking with you, Mios Valnon. Perhaps we can do it again before you leave to return to your command.”
The alien then left the room.
Mios sat for several minutes attempting to decipher the Human’s parting words. Was he inviting Mios to join him on the observation deck for a more private conversation, or was he expressing his desire to be alone? Mios knew too little of Humans to know for sure.
After an appropriate time had passed, Mios returned his food tray to the processor, and after referring to an automated location guide, found his way to the Level Twenty observation deck.
For a ship this size, the room was actually quite small, yet it
did have an incredible view of the surrounding stars, as well as the terraced forward section of the Leviathan. Eric McCarthy didn’t turn from the crystal clear glass window when Mios approached.
“You have a beautiful galaxy here, Mios,” the young McCarthy said.
“Is it not like Silea?”
Eric smiled. “Of course it is, yet this one is soon to be under the control of my father.”
“You do not believe our mission will succeed?”
“I have been hearing about my father’s exploits my entire life, and every time forces have gathered against him he has come out ahead. Now he rules the most powerful Clan in Tanic, and we are but one ship against thousands.”
“What of my ships and the rest of the Polimors?”
Eric finally turned to look at Mios. “You seem to be a logical creature, Mios, what do you see your chance of success as being?”
“I will do my duty no matter the consequences—if even in a losing cause.”
“Too bad.”
“May I ask a question, Eric McCarthy?”
“Of course.”
“Are you a prisoner here or are you a willing participant against your father?”
Eric turned back to the huge window and was silent for several moments before answering. “I honestly don’t know. Many here try to assure me that I’m one of them, and yet they exclude me from important affairs. And as far as the goal of killing my father goes, I also don’t know. I’m unaware how it is for your species, but for Humans fathers are very important.”
“In Diaphonin society, the birth father is at the pinnacle of the order. It appears it is the same for Humans. Yet is it not true that you were raised by the Silean Kroekus—whom I have met on several occasions?”
“Yes, I was.”
“And Lord McCarthy killed him. That must cause you some conflict.”
“Kroekus and my father were supposed to rule the Tanic Galaxy as partners. Now we learn that Kroekus has conspired with the Polimors—your Clan—to eliminate the Kiran’s and my father by extension. In my opinion it seems Kroekus got what he deserved.”