by John Walker
“About God damn time!” Warren grunted.
Dirk frowned, dialing the number again on the tablet and creating a conference line. Jacks answered right away, “what the hell are you doing, man? Don’t you know how to connect a line?”
“Not between two devices,” Dirk replied. “You guys should be able to hear each other now.”
“Warren?” Jacks asked. “Is that really you? What the hell happened? Where have you been?”
“It’s me,” Warren replied. “I was on the alien vessel but we’ve just escaped and are heading back to Earth. Is everyone alright? Have you launched the Leviathan yet?”
“No, there were some problems with the fuel regulators but it’s fixed now. We’ve got launch countdown going. Should be up in ten minutes. How are you getting back here?”
“We stole one of those smaller objects that entered the Earth’s atmosphere recently. Please be sure we don’t get shot down. I’ve … I’ve got some survivors with me.” Warren paused. “We’ll need medical attention when we land. We’ll put down as near to the Agency as we can.”
“Understood. We’ll delay launch until you get here. Just hurry if you can! I assume you’ve got a lot to report.”
“More than you know,” Warren said. “Get ready for us, sir. We’ll be there soon.”
“Thank God. We were beginning to lose hope. See you soon. Jacks out.”
Dirk sat there with two deadlines and realized he should’ve been recording the conversation. Damn it! I could’ve really been a hero with that one! People would’ve loved to hear it! Survivors! An escape from the alien space ship! And I have no proof of any of it! Damn it all to hell!
Another set of breaking news stories crossed his desk, more tragedy and misery. He wished he could offer some hope from what he’d just heard but he couldn’t corroborate the story. Instead, he sulked and prepared to offer up more of the same. Riots … looting … suicides … and death.
***
Warren pulled the orb away from his head. It made his ear ring but the sensation passed quickly enough. Hearing Jacks’s voice was great. The world was still intact, still kicking and ready to defy their potential oppressors. Until the moment he made contact with home, he’d worried it might not be there anymore.
A rational fear considering the circumstances. Warren cleared his throat and addressed the soldiers around him. “Attention everyone, please quiet down for a moment. I just spoke with my superior at the Space Agency. I don’t have any specific news but I was first connected with a civilian. He wasn’t in a state of panic so I’m taking that as good news.
“I’m going to give our pilot the coordinates for Agency headquarters. There’s a medical facility there and they’re on standby to receive us. We’ll be home soon and I assure you, that everyone here will be taken care of.” He softened, brows lifting. “You’ve all been incredibly brave and I want to commend you for your efforts. We wouldn’t be here without each of you.”
“We left a lot of people behind!” A man shouted. “Good men!”
Warren nodded. “I agree. It kills me inside but we wouldn’t have done anyone any good if we would’ve thrown our lives away. We need to get back to Earth, to tell people what we saw and prepare for more of this type of thing because no one here’s naive enough to think this is the only ship in the universe.
“Others will certainly come and if we’re not ready for them, then we’ll be right back where we started. Victims to an alien race bent on harvesting us like a common resource.” Warren shook his head. “I intend to stand in their way and any of you who have an inclination, and the training, are invited to do so too. We’ll find a place for you.
“But know that there’s no shame in turning down that offer. Believe me, I get it. But think about it while you’re recovering from this ordeal and decide where you want to stand in this building conflict.” Warren backed away. “Thank you again … rest now. We’ll talk soon. I promise.”
Dex patted him on the shoulder. “Good speech.”
“Thanks,” Warren replied. “Offer goes to you too, Dex. We could use a marine like you on the Leviathan.”
“Go into space intentionally?” Dex shrugged. “Honestly, I’d love the opportunity to dish out some more payback for what happened to Gary. If I get that chance, I’m in.” He chuckled. “Besides, I’m not sure I can let you go wandering around without me nearby. I saved your life like … five times back there.”
“I only counted twice,” Warren replied, “but I’ll give that to you for now. Anyway, I gotta climb up there and give that woman our coordinates.”
“You really don’t like her much.”
“What’s to like? She’s abrasive and cold.” Warren shook his head. “If all the aliens we encounter are like her, then we’re in for a rude time in this universe. I’ll talk to you soon.” He crawled into the passage and dragged himself up until he saw the soles of her boots. She wasn’t kidding! He could barely move. This is a tight space!
“What’re you doing down there?” Avania asked. “I told you there isn’t room for more than one person in here!”
“I needed to tell you where we’re going,” Warren said. “And I think I might be stuck.”
“That means we’re both stuck then so you’d better wriggle yourself out.” Avania paused. “So tell me where we’re going then.”
“Um … I’m not sure how. What figures would you know?”
“Do you make the zero point the middle of your world? Around the center?”
“Yes, we call it the equator.” Warren sighed. “This won’t work. What do you see up there?”
“I’ve got a computer, a view screen and some basic controls,” Avania replied. “Hold on, I might be able to make some space if I shove … myself …” She grunted and moved until she was on her side. “Okay, come up here but we’re going to have to be quite close. My rear end is inside the maintenance hatch.”
Warren turned to his side and pulled us way up, scraping his chest against her boots. She pulled them back against the wall, which made it a little easier but he really had to squirm to get up there. The light of a screen glowed above his head and he found himself facing her stomach … then her breasts … and finally her scowling eyes.
“Hi there,” Warren muttered. “Sorry about this.”
“It’s fine. Just … hurry, please. If you think you’re uncomfortable, you should try what I’m doing to give you extra room.”
“Understood.” Warren craned his neck, looking up at the screen. It was a highly detailed, topographical map of the Earth. “How’s this thing work?”
“You can tap the screen … if you can reach it.”
Warren squeezed his arm between them, brushing against her breasts. She tilted her head while glaring at him. “Sorry … I mean … this is … and you’re … kind of … hard to … miss …”
“Just get on with it, already!” Avania closed her eyes. “Please.”
Warren touched the screen and the map increased in size, flattening until he could see all the continents. “So do I just … tap where we’re going?” He asked, trying it before she could answer. The screen zoomed again, enhancing North America. Each tap brought more detail until buildings showed up and roads.
Wow, this is incredible. Warren found the base and tapped nearby, just to the east of the complex. The smaller object could be moved later but putting it down outside seemed the most prudent. Only one part of the Agency was large enough to hold the thing and the Leviathan happened to be there.
“I’ve tapped where we should go. There’s a red circle there. Does that mean we’re landing or attacking?”
“Um …” Avania looked up. “Yes, that’s where we land. ETA ten minutes at current speed. Now, can you get out of here? I already dislike tight spaces but this has taken a ridiculous turn. It’s all I can do to keep myself from screaming like some horrified child.”
“I get it,” Warren shoved hard against the console, rubbing against her body the whole way down.
She winced, her body stiffening. “Sorry …”
“Something just stabbed me in the rear.” Avania winced again. “Gah! That really hurts. Kindly make this quick so I can move!”
“Hey, I’m doing what I can here!” Warren found a grip on the wall and shoved again, bumping his head on her foot. Another shove and he was away from her. She immediately flopped back on her stomach, letting out a sigh of relief. Another couple pushes and he’d be out of the chamber.
“I’m almost free,” Warren said.
“Fabulous. I’m still in pain.”
“I said I was sorry!”
“Noted!”
Warren shook his head as he slipped out and slumped on the floor. He rubbed his forehead where he’d been knocked by the toe of her boot and leaned against the wall. Sweat made his clothes cling to his back and chest. Turned out to be hot as hell up there, especially with a second person so close.
“Did you have fun up there?” Dex chuckled. “Sounded like more than a course correction.”
“Stow it, Dex.” Warren grumbled. “You should take a look. Coming out was like being born.”
“Yeah, I bet you had a real religious experience brushing up against that alien broad.”
“I said stow it, man.” Warren shook his head. “Marines … you guys are seriously out of control.”
“You know it, buddy.” Dex leaned over to pat him on the shoulder. “You know it.”
Chapter 8
Victoria received a direct com call from ground control. That’s odd. Why didn’t they go through Madeline? She tentatively connected the line, wondering what new horror they discovered. “This is Serling.”
“Commander, this is Doctor Meyers. I have excellent news!”
“Now there’s a change of pace,” Victoria replied. “What’s going on, Doctor?”
“We’ve received word from Captain Miller!”
Victoria sat forward in her seat. “What? When? Where is he? Is he okay?”
“He seems to be fine. Turns out he was captured by the aliens! He and several other survivors have stolen a shuttle and are on their way here even as we speak. We’re delaying launch until he arrives. I … hope you understand.” Meyers cleared his throat. “It’s not that there was a lack of faith …”
“I perfectly understand and I appreciate it.” Victoria felt the tension in her muscles release and she slumped in relief. Much as she prepared herself for the act of going into war without him, she dreaded taking the Leviathan up without the captain. “What’s the ETA to his arrival?”
“They’re moving quickly, we estimate less than ten minutes. We’ll be getting him on board as soon as possible … with a quick debrief on the ship. We’ve got a lot to discuss and probably no time to do it. I hope you’re all prepared. Things are about to move in fast forward for a while.”
“Better than the snail’s pace we’ve been dealing with,” Victoria replied. “Thank you for the news, Doctor. Serling out.” She heaved a sigh. “Well, Nicolas. What do you think? Feel better?”
“I fly the ship regardless of who’s in the command chair.”
Victoria smirked. “Now you’re just kissing ass. Anyway, countdown’s changed again. Captain should be here soon. I’m going to prep the briefing room. Madeline, inform key department heads to report there immediately. The way Doctor Meyers was talking, it sounds like everything’s going to happen pretty fast when the captain arrives.”
She left the bridge, unable to keep from smiling. All the worry she felt for Warren faded, really letting her know just how concerned she was. She’d lost enough friends to war, losing one to humanity’s first contact with aliens seemed flat out wrong. The thought of it killed her. Had it not been for the job, she may have had a hard time holding it together.
Discipline keeps one focused, I suppose. Victoria didn’t cry when she received news of her husband’s death. She was on duty at the time, working with her people. Keeping her emotions in check then had been the hardest thing she’d ever done. It’s probably not entirely healthy to be able to bottle things up like this.
Leadership came with some sacrifices. They involved putting aside personal feelings, acting brave in the face of adversity, containing impulses and always maintaining control. She learned the principles through a long career, watching others and correcting her own behavior when she caught herself slipping.
The brief time that she was fully in charge of the Leviathan gave her confidence in all that she’d learned. It showed Jacks and Warren rightfully put their faith in her and she was definitely in the right place. Things were on track for their departure and they wouldn’t have long before they finally set out on their maiden voyage.
Hopefully, Warren has some good news about our opponent. Victoria thought. The elevator opened and she headed to the briefing room. Or at least news about what we’re up against. I think the world would love to hear what he has to say … if we’ll even be able to talk about it.
Some of the events couldn’t be hidden from the public. Others undoubtedly would become classified. The council liked to keep a tight lid on Agency operations in general. There was no reason to assume they wouldn’t be just as intense about the invaders. Whatever could be covered up, would be.
The NDA Agency employees had to sign would be sent out as a reminder and that person leaking information to the press would probably do some prison time. Jacks definitely wanted to know their number. Victoria had seen the insane things people got up to, including riots and looting. Keeping them informed might’ve slowed them down.
The longer people lived in the unknown, the worse their behavior would become. Victoria figured full disclosure was the best option. Keep everyone informed about the situation and get them behind the chance to defend their planet. The Agency might well turn the event into something out of World War Two, complete with enlistment posters.
All depending on how much power they retained and accumulated based on their performance. Regardless of why the organization was founded, they now had a definitive purpose not written in any charter. Defenders of Earth. While it sounded good to say out loud, the Agency only just found themselves in a position to enter combat.
And how the invading vessel was dealt with would ultimately justify the Agency’s existence or condemn it.
***
“We’re entering your atmosphere!” Avania shouted to Warren. He felt like he should duck or sit down. Re-entry should’ve been accompanied by rattling, shaking walls or trembling plate floors. He looked at the others, each of their faces etched in some type of fear or worry.
“It’s okay, everyone,” Warren said. “These things came down before and didn’t crash.”
“They weren’t trying to land,” Dex muttered nearby, earning him a withering glare from Warren.
“No one needs to hear that reminder right now, man.” Warren turned to address Avania. “Do you have any idea how long it’ll take to make landfall?”
“Minutes! Maybe!”
“As in it could be quicker?”
“Oh yes,” Avania replied. “Very much so!”
Great. We’re going to make a damn crater. Maybe I should’ve set the course for further away though I doubt any distance outside of five miles would’ve been safe enough to keep the base intact. Damn it!
“Can you slow us down?” Warren asked.
“I’m working on it … this isn’t exactly maneuverable! Just … remain still!”
The vibration in the floor changed, taking on a much more defined shake. He wondered if it happened when the thing abducted him. Why did I pass out anyway? The thought was a welcome distraction but when the ship shook violently for a moment, the question was gone. He looked around for something to hold on to but the walls were smooth.
The area began to warm up as the temperature skyrocketed into the high eighties. Sweat already soaked Warren’s clothes and now it threatened to dry. It kept getting hotter, like someone cranking up the dial on an oven. People around him started panicking, complai
ning about the discomfort.
“Um … Landfall in twenty seconds!” Avania’s words made Warren’s stomach do a flip. He closed his eyes and counted them out, going backward. Nineteen … eighteen … seventeen …
All manner of things bounced through his mind. Flight school … flying in a battle over Sydney, Australia … a football game in high school … a friend’s wedding. Fourteen … thirteen … twelve … His parent’s funeral flashed before his eyes then hiking in the hills just before he received word of the strange object approaching Earth.
Ten … nine … eight … Colonel Jacks visited him while he was stationed in Germany. They talked about the space program. Warren signed the papers that day for the transfer and never looked back. Five … four … three. He wondered if that had been a good idea. Two seconds before Avania’s estimated time to impact, he thought he might’ve made a mistake joining up.
The floor stopped vibrating. The temperature began to drop, albeit slowly. Dex looked around, tentatively getting to his feet. Others joined him, their faces contorted with confused expressions. Avania slipped through the hole, landing in a crouch before bounding to her feet. She smiled, placing her hands on her hips.
“There you have it. Not my absolute best landing but nothing to scoff at, surely.”
“Wait, we … landed?” Dex asked. “But I didn’t hear any sound. Didn’t feel impact.”
“I didn’t say I crashed,” Avania replied. “Why? Did you expect to? I tried to keep it as smooth as possible. Plus, the coordinates he entered were quite close to a facility. I assumed you didn’t want it to be damaged so I had to really finesse this thing during approach. I personally think I did very well.”
“You did,” Dex agreed. “Thank you for not killing us.”
“My pleasure.” Avania pulled a small box from her pocket. “Here.” She tossed it to Warren. “That’s a download of everything this thing had on the computer. It should help us when this is all over. We’ll need the data if we hope to make any sort of upgrades or … well … do anything beyond what your technological limitations are.”