*Rheinland Space*
*Aboard the Necrosis*
MonStar watched the main viewing screen on the bridge of the Necrosis with delight as a Liberty cruiser accompanied by several fighter wings approached. Typically the Necrosis would already be well within battle maneuvers when in such close proximity to a liberty vessel but this time was different. The madman just sat casually back and giggled to himself as the small fleet peacefully pulled up beside the infamous Necrosis.
The picture on the viewing screen fizzled as the feed was switched. A familiar digitized face appeared, Master, Psi-Borg said in his usual monotone voice, I trust you havent been waiting long?
Not at all Borgy, not at all, MonStars teeth flashed from the light of the monitor, your right on time as always. I see your mission went well.
Yes master, I was able to commandeer more fighters than we had originally planned. I took the initiative when the opportunity presented itself; I acted on your saying when in doubt, overkill. I hope this pleases you, my master
Indeed it does my pet, the added ships will do well to strengthen the ruse. I trust you allowed yourself to be seen once you crossed into Rheinland space?
I did as you commanded my lord, I allowed a Rheinland military patrol to get within scanner range before I lost them in the asteroids.
Excellent! MonStar brought his hand up to stroke his beard as he fell into deep thought.
Begin mooring to the Necrosis and land those fighters, MonStar said without breaking that distant stare, the good doctor and his equipment are ready for transfer.
As you wish master, Psi-Borg nodded in obedience, It would seem everything is going in accordance to your plan my lord.
Yeeees, MonStars words lost their usual jovial tone and became much more sinister, soon our work will be complete, and this whole region of space will erupt into war leading to casualties beyond imagining HAHAHAHAHAHAHAAAAAHAA!
*Planet Manhattan*
* Liberty Navy Administration Office*
Admiral Simpson will see you now. The soft voice broke Nolan Jacksons concentration. He had been looking over some documents on a small handheld data screen. He promptly put the device into his briefcase, stood up, and turned to face the young woman holding the door open for him.
Thank you. Nolan gave a slight nod and offered an appreciative smile at the young woman as he entered the admirals office.
Agent Jackson, Admiral Simpson stood respectfully, at last we finally meet.
Nolan stepped up to the Admirals desk and accepted his outstretched hand and shook it firmly.
Please make yourself comfortable, the admiral motioned to one of the chairs in front of his desk. The two men sat down in unison. Would you like some coffee or tea?
No thank you sir. Nolan said adjusting his dress coat as he situated himself in his new seat.
The admiral gave a nod to his secretary and she left the room, shutting the door behind her.
Now then, the admiral began, I have a meeting with the president shortly so Im afraid well have to skip the pleasantries and get straight to the matter at hand.
Understood. Nolan nodded his approval.
The director of the LSF tells me that you have been put in charge of the Endo investigation due to your intimate knowledge of the situation.
That is correct admiral.
Im about to debrief the president in our meeting, I was hoping you could bring me up to date on what we know so far. The admiral leaned back in his chair symbolically giving Nolan Jackson the floor.
Nolan opened his briefcase and pulled out the small handheld data screen he had been reviewing earlier and handed to the admiral. This is everything we have on the case so far. Dr. Endos fame exploded, no pun intended, from a breakthrough he had in solar phenomenon research. For years Kusari scientist knew that the star in the Kyushu system was at high risk of releasing a gamma ray burst which couldve proven disastrous had it not been for the doctors bisector beam invention.
Interesting, the admiral interrupted, the beams opened and shut small vents in the star itself to slowly release the built up pressure.
Yes sir, Nolan continued, unfortunately the fame garnered from this scientific success would prove to be a problem. While the doctor was away visiting his family the research base in Kyushu was attacked. From the wreckage of the base Kusari officials noticed that some of the doctors equipment was missing. It was obvious that who ever attacked the base were specifically after the doctors research. After a battle at the doctors residence and an attack on the battleship Myoto, the Kusari government decided itd be best if the doctor fled Kusari space. That is when they asked the LSF for assistance. We gladly accepted and escorted the doctor and his family to our base on Houston. A move that we thought would ensure the Endo families 100% protection.
I see, the admiral spoke up again, I take it these pictures are from the base on Houston? the admiral wore a troubled look on his face as he looked at the small monitor.
Yes sir, unfortunately there were no survivors, aside from the Endo family and Agent Oswald. He is the agent that was recently discovered in the Texas system.
Yes I read about that. How is the young man doing? Admiral Jackson wore a sincere look on his face.
Nolan took a deep breath before continuing, Hes still in critical condition but hes stable. I fear that what has happened to him will have obvious detrimental effects on his psyche. Nolan ended that comment by staring off in deep thought.
The admiral seeing this as an obviously sensitive issue moved on. So it says here youve implicated the perpetrator of these events?
Nolan blinked rapidly, breaking out of his contemplation. Yes sir, as you can see we believe this entire chain of events has been caused by the terrorist known as MonStar.
Admiral Simpson took a deep breath, MonStar, the admiral paused briefly, that madman is also the prime suspect in the disappearance of one of our patrol groups in Texas.
I heard about that, what can you tell me about the incident?
The patrol consisted of the Liberty Cruiser, Apison and her fighter patrol. After we lost contact with them, a scout was sent to track them down. The scouting vessel found several fighters from the patrol adrift along their patrol route. The fighters life-support systems had been deactivated and the pilots had suffocated. When we opened the cockpits there was a recording of laughter playing over and over in the cockpit. The laughter on the recording matches that of a sample we have of MonStar.
I see, Nolan sat back in his chair as he went over the facts in his head, is this the same cruiser that Rheinland reports they tracked entering their space?
The admiral nodded, we believe them to be the same.
And Rheinland believes this is evidence of Liberty running black ops missions under their noses, that MonStar is a, Nolan pulled a paper from his briefcase and read from it in order to correctly quote it, construct devised by Liberty to covered up their malicious activities in Rheinlands homelands?
Indeed, Admiral Simpson shifted uncomfortably in his seat, Im afraid they arent completely wrong about MonStar.
Pardon? Nolan Jacksons eyebrows rose sharply.
The admiral leaned forward, placing his elbows on the desk, and crossed his fingers in front of him, What you are about to hear is highly classified Agent Jackson, and I am only telling you this under obligation of the cooperation pact between the LSF and the Navy.
Nolan Jackson nodded silently showing his understanding of what the admiral was implying.
The admiral leaned back into his chair once again upon receiving Nolans acknowledgement. A few years ago, the heads of Liberties armed forces decided they wanted to reopen Project Mercury. This project was originally designed to create, for lack of a better word, super soldiers.
Why was the program originally shut down? Nolan interrupted.
Ethical concerns, budget constraints, politics.you name it, and it had it. However, several of the high-ranking officials felt there was some unfinished work to be done in the project and so it was reopened. The program went smoothly back into operation. When it came time for human testing it was decided to use criminals, people that no one would miss. An agreement was reached with the Bounty Hunter Guild, they catch them and we buy them.
Nolan shook his head in a combination of disbelief and disgust.
The admiral ignored his sour expression and continued, One such criminal was an Outcast pilot by the name of Tyrian Darkheart. The scientists were thrilled by the find as they had a theory of how to remove the cardimine dependency that plagued the outcast. Tyrian was the perfect guinea pig. They tried every experiment on him an unlike the other test subjects he survived. Towards the end he was a bit of a museum piece, I myself went to see the success, he looked like a character out of a monster movie laying on that table.
The admiral stared off across the room, Nolan could tell he was recalled the images he saw that day. The scientist began to call him the MonStar and I admit, the name fit. Admiral Jackson ran his fingers in a star pattern over his right eye, he had a star shaped scar over his right eye. They said it was from the work they didnt on his cybernetic eye. Two days after my visit is when the reports came in that the research station was destroyed. It was thought to be a freak accident with no survivors, at least until the reports began to come in about a maniac leaving a path of destruction across Sirius and calling himself MonStar.
The two men sat in silence for a few minutes, until the intercom on the admirals desk sprang to life. Admiral, your shuttle is here.
Thank you Jennifer, the admiral stood, as did Nolan Jackson and the admiral began walking toward the door, Im sorry Agent Jackson Im afraid Im going to have to cut our meeting short.
Sir, I believe MonStar is trying to start a war between Liberty and Rheinland.
The admiral stopped beside his desk and faced Nolan, Yes, you are indeed correct. Hes devised a well thought out plan. Hes played both nations perfectly, knowing how wed react and what we would do. Brilliant really. The admiral began his course toward the door.
Admiral you and I both know that hes planning on creating a gamma ray burst in Rheinland.
The admiral stopped at the door and turned to face Nolan, Yes and without Rheinlands help well be helpless to stop him. As it stands now we can only hope Rheinland comes to their senses but it would seem the chances of that are slim. Good day Agent Jackson.
Nolan helplessly watched Admiral Simpson leave but didnt follow. He leaned up against the admirals desk crossed his arms and breathed a defeated sigh, thinking over the meeting and the new information he had, Nolan could only come to one conclusion, Checkmate.
*Stuttgart System*
*High Solar Orbit*
*Onboard the Bridge of the Liberty Cruiser Apison*
Dr. Sadayuki Endo wiped the sweat from is weary brow, he was running the last diagnostic on the bisector beam system he had been forced to retrofit onto the liberty vessel he now found himself on. The doctor was so into his work he didnt even notice the bridges large viewing screen power on. The image on the screen was dark; the only light in the room displayed was from the corresponding screen out of view. The light was enough to reveal the location and the lone occupant of it. It was the bridge of the Necrosis and sitting in the bone-covered captains chair was MonStar himself.
Times up doc. the sound of MonStars voice suddenly coming from all the speakers on the Apisons bridge made Dr. Endo jump in shock. He immediately turned to face MonStars image.
Its ready! the doctor said frantically. I just completed the final diagnostic on the entire system. Its its ready
Excellent, MonStars teeth glowed as the light reflected brightly off his wicked smile, Psi-Borg will be taking over the operation controls from here on.
Sadayuki Endo looked over to the panel he was just working on and saw it begin to work itself at an alarming rate, obviously MonStars pet was well into preparing the system.
You should know that the corona of this star will take longer to bisect than the Kyushu star as its pressure is much lower. The doctor added.
Well thank you doctor, MonStars smile still shining vibrantly against the dark background, you have served me well and are to be commended for you hard work on such a tight timeline.
Dr. Endo brought his hands up in front of his and fidgeted nervously, Can I see my family now?
MonStar sat in silence for a few moments thickening the palpable tension in the air, Now now doctor, everything comes to he who waits. We have more pressing matters at hand. Once we see that the system works as it should, he paused again as if for dramatic effect or something more sinister, rest assured, you will see your family again. Psi-Borg, begin the countdown, its time for the show to begin.
Yes Master. The disembodied voice reverberated across the speakers around the bridge of the Apison.
Dr. Endo couldnt help but feel a bit of nausea from knowing that he had helped in what was about to happen. The only solace he had was the knowledge that his family would be safe. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly; soon hed be able to hold his wife and daughters again and this whole thing will be over.
*Planet Stuttgart*
*Farm Site: 1036-C*
Admiral Krause pulled out a timepiece, looked at it briefly, and sighed as he placed it back into his uniforms pocket. The admirals boredom was obvious as he and a small group of his dignitaries followed their guide around the outside of a new water distribution plant. The groups guide led them to a large pool of water with several large towers protruding from its depths.
As you can see, the guide spoke enthusiastically, the additional nitrogen added into the water is perfectly balanced to provide the maximum level of fertilization to the crops. The guides enthusiasm was lost on the admiral however, as he realized the promise of a scientific breakthrough was nothing more than better water fertilizing.
Admiral Krause felt a gentle tap on his shoulder; he turned to see a young female face smiling at him. Excuse me admiral, you have an incoming call. Could you come with me sir?
The admirals smile threatened to consume his face, Gladly.
After walking a short distance the woman stopped and motioned the admiral toward a nearby monitor located on the outside of what he thought must be a storage building.
Thank you my dear, the admiral gave a slight bow toward the young lady, you have saved me from certain death. I fear I wouldve perished had I been subject to anymore talk of plants.
The young woman blushed, gave a small giggle, and walked away. The admiral walked up to the monitor screen and pushed the flashing button on its control terminal. The screen turned on immediately revealing the source of the call.
Captain Schmitt, the admirals expressed changed to one of mild surprise, I was unaware that we would be speaking so shortly after my departure.
Sorry to interrupt your meeting admiral, but my orders are to notify the nearest fleet admiral of any unusual findings during my patrol route.
Very well, what have you found?
Long range scanners of one of our scout craft picked up a small group of ships in high solar orbit. The data from the scans leads me to believe we may have found the Liberty vessels spotted entering Rheinland space.
The admiral crossed his arms and brought a finger to his mouth as he thought over the situation, I trust you are investigating further?
Yes sir, my patrol is rendezvousing with a second patrol fleet and will be flying there shortly there after to. Captain Schmitts transmission broke up without warning, his picture replaced by a wall of static and distortion.
Captain? Admiral Krause reached for the monitor controls to try to regain the signal; before his hand could reach them a blinding light to his side caught his attention. He turned just in time to catch a momentary glimpse of a column of light that he thought he saw coming from the sky. Before he could even begin to ponder on what he had just seen, an intense wave of heat blasted the admirals skin, the heat seemed to come from the direction he had just thought hed seen the light.
The admirals eyes widened as a wall of fire rose to dominate his vision, replacing the sky he was just looking at completely. So great the wall grew that Admiral Krause could no longer see its edges. The wall rushed toward him at an alarming rate, the admiral hadnt the time or ability to move fast enough to escape. He stood frozen by the sight of his impending doom.
Admiral Krause could only utter one word before the wall of fire consumed him, Damn
*Stuttgart System*
*High Solar Orbit*
*Onboard the Bridge of the Liberty Cruiser Apison*
HAHAHAHAHAHAAAHHHAAA! the volume of MonStars excessively loud laughter made the speakers lining the bridge of the Apison pop and crackle as they attempted to compensate for the audible increase. Dr. Endo fought back the urge to empty his stomach on the floor in front of him as he watched a live video feed from a satellite in orbit around Planet Stuttgart on the large monitor next to the main one displaying MonStars image. He watched as the oxygen rich atmosphere of the planet ignited into a wave of fire beyond imagining. He turned his eyes from the images, not wishing to see anymore.
Sadayuki Endo had hoped that some unforeseen circumstance would arise to cause the madmans plans to fail but much to his dismay everything had worked perfectly. The bisector was targeted perfectly and just enough energy was present to release a small gamma ray burst. The burst, under normal circumstances, wouldve not done more than destroy a few city blocks, however coupled with the unnaturally high oxygen content of Stuttgarts manufactured air and you get what was displaying on the screen in front of him. Dr. Endo shook his head slowly as he stared at the ground trying to regain his composure, he conceded that MonStar was much more cunning than his somewhat foolish mannerisms would indicate to have devised such a well laid plan.
Aw, MonStars said in a mockingly sorrowful tone, it would seem Stuttgarts safe guard systems are adequate enough to stop a complete loss after all. Ah well, I think having half the planet burnt to a crispy black is more than enough dont you think?
S..sso, the doctor interrupted in a stutter, now you see I built the machine just how you asked and it worked. The doctor swallowed hard before continuing, Can I see my family now?
The doctor stared at the screen showing the darkened image of MonStar, his white smile gleaming from the darkness. The madman sat in silence for a few minutes, minutes that seemed like hours to the doctor as he anxiously awaiting a response.
Indeed doctor, MonStars tone was cold and dark, After all that you have done for me its the least I can do.
The lights on the bridge of the Necrosis came online, the dark void that was there a moment before was illuminated completely.
The doctors froze and a sharp sudden gust of air filled his lungs. The strength of his legs was gone, causing him to collapse onto his knees. NOOOOOOO! he screamed, pushing the last bit of oxygen out of his lungs.
The remains of the doctors wife and two daughters littered the floor around the now standing MonStar who looked around himself at the multitude of body parts scattered around him. I must admit, The beast said before turning back to the doctor who sat kneeling on the floor, lost in a flood of emotional agony, I got a bit carried away with this bunch. That thermal saw is just too much fun HAHAHAHAHAHHAAAHA!
MonStars thunderous outburst of laughter was interrupted by a monotone voice erupting from the speakers on the Necrosis, Master, I have a fleet of Rheinland vessels fast approaching the Apison.
Excellent, MonStar said as he rubbed his hands together, right on schedule. Well doctor, Im afraid this is where we say goodbye. In reality none of this wouldve been possible without your brilliant work. So in thanks, I have prepared for you a warriors death. MonStar bowed deeply, Your welcome.
MonStar plopped back down in his captains chair, a wide smile wrapped across his face. Psi-Borg, ensure the doctor goes out with a bang, wont you?
As you command my lord. The disembodied voice replied, this time from both ships.
MonStar gave an over exaggerated wave, Farewell doc, its been a blast HAHAHAHAHAAHAA!
Sadayuki Endo, lost within himself, didnt regard MonStars farewell or the images of the Rheinland fleet displayed upon the screens in front of him. Neither the sounds of the Apisons turrets firing or the vibrations from the impact of Rheinland weapons slamming into the cruisers hull did little to loosen the hold those images of his family had on him.
Only when a lone torpedo from the attacking Rheinland ships ripped into the bridge of the Apison, detonating a few feet from the doctor, was he truly set free.
*A clip from an Bretonian news station*
Now for todays top story, tragedy struck last night as a phenomenon known as a gamma ray burst struck Planet Stuttgart in Rheinland space. Reports indicate the radiation from the blast was sufficient enough to ignite the oxygen-enriched atmosphere of the planet. Despite the advanced safety systems located on the planet that are specifically designed to deal with these situations, the fire was so large that it engulfed a large portion of the planet before the safe guards were able to extinguish the flames. Based on early reports, as much as 55% of the planets surface was affected. Its still too early to get an exact casualty count but its been estimated to be well into the tens of thousands.
Officials from the Rheinland Military point the blame at Liberty, saying that the disaster on Planet Stuttgart is the result of a secret operation the Liberty military was running deep in Rheinland space. An operation meant to cripple Rheinlands economic infrastructure as a precursor to an invasion. Rheinland went on to tell how one of their patrols discovered ships they say was responsible for the attack on the planet. The ships were identified as the Liberty Cruiser, the Apison, and its fighter escort. Rheinland said that the threat posed by the Liberty vessels was dealt with, a comment that left little to the imagination.
Planet Stuttgart is well known throughout Sirius to provide a large majority of Rheinlands food and with nearly half of its crops destroyed, the pain of such a loss will be felt long into the future, a fact that only strengthens their claims against Liberty.
Liberty denounced the claims and went on record as saying that they have detailed proof that the whole operation was a scheme devised by a terrorist known as MonStar. Who they say kidnapped the Kusari scientist Dr. Sadayuki Endo, whose expertise in solar phenomenon made it possible to cause the gamma ray burst. They also stated the liberty ships in question went missing only days before the event took place, somehow stolen by the terrorist in order to frame Liberty for the disaster.
Rheinland seems to be skeptical of Libertys claims, stating that this MonStar character is nothing more than a scapegoat conjured up by Liberty to cover up their black op missions.
This catastrophe and the claims against Liberty have pushed the tension already building between the two houses to critical levels. Military from both sides are collecting on the borders joining the two houses. It would seem the smell of war runs thick in the air between the two giants.
*End clip*
From Bad To Worse
*Sigma 17*
*Onboard The Outcast Dreadnaught The Maltese Fox*
Sir! a young Outcast female manning the ships sensor station announced, Preliminary scans confirm the vessel matches the description given to us by the Dragons.
Very well, a response came from the elevated command platform, signal the fleet. Itll be a shame to destroy one of our own vessels but attacks against our allies, not to mention attacks using our own equipment, cannot go unpunished.
Admiral Darkheart leaned against the command console in front of him as he looked upon the bridges main viewing screen. He was an older man, taller than most, with a stocky frame, and hair of grey with streaks of its former red shining through. He wore a grim look on his weathered face. A look that was rarely seen on the admiral, but something was indeed on his mind. The reports they received from the Dragons were that an Outcast Destroyer had attacked a small contingent of Dragon pilots. The details of the encounter were sketchy and little was ever revealed about what instigated the attack. Nevertheless, the Dragons demanded answers.
Admiral Darkheart, the leader of the 512th, was charged with finding the renegade. He knew well, as did the Outcast leaders whom it was that attacked their allies. The Outcast had monitored the activities of the maniac known as MonStar for quite some time. However, no knowledge of any attacks on Outcast or their allies had ever been reported. Leaving no reason for them to think him a threat. Until recently the order from Malta was to give him a wide berth and not interfere, but the attack on the Dragons changed things.
Set an intercept course, The admiral straightened his back revealing his full height and crossed his arms in front of him in an attempt to strike an intimidating pose, and open a channel to the renegade ship.
Channel open sir! came a response from the floor below the admiral.
This is Admiral Darkheart of the Outcasts 512th fleet to renegade vessel. You are in possession of Outcast property and have been reported using said property to attack allies of the Outcast. You are ordered to stand down and surrender your vessel at once. You will not be warned a second time. The admiral nodded to the comm. station signaling them to close the channel.
Sir, the ship has come to a stop. The girl manning the sensor station reported.
Interesting, the admiral wasnt expecting the Necrosis to surrender at all much less on command, Signal the fleet to surround the vessel. He purposefully failed to inform the crew of the identity of their opponent. He felt the reports and rumors of MonStar would only prove to have negative effects on the crews morale during the, what he thought was inevitable, conflict.
Sir, the vessel is hailing us.
Video?
Yes sir.
The admiral thought it over, weighing his options carefully. Based on his gut feeling he made a decision. Put it on screen.
The images on the main viewing screen flashed away, the images of the Necrosis being circled by a pair of Destroyers and more than one wing of fighter sized craft were replaced by a shadowed view of the Necrosis bridge. The admiral couldnt pick much out from the darkness of the bridge except for a figure sitting in a command chair covered in what looked to be human bones. Only one light shown in that distant room, revealing the legs of the figure but aimed to keep the upper part of its body hidden from discernment.
Being a seasoned veteran, Admiral Darkheart showed no sign that the eerie scene on the screen bothered him in the least. I venture to assume you wish to discuss the terms of your surrender? his tone was confident and direct.
A long pause came from the figure known only to the admiral to be MonStar. The faint glow of the single light reflected off of a growing smile on MonStars face.
I only wanted to look upon the face of my would be slayer. The years seem to have been good to you.Father. MonStar leaned into the light revealing his face, his menacing smile threatening to swallow its entirety.
Tyrian the admirals jaw dropped as his eyes widened. The admiral thought he physically felt his heart jump into his throat.
In a round-a-bout way, yes. The prodigal son has returned at long last. What say you come over and give your boy a big ole hug HAHAHAHAAAHAA
The screen turned off on the admirals unspoken order. He leaned against his console once more, hanging his head as he thought. His son, his own flesh and blood, was MonStar. Confusion set in as he tried desperately to process it all. How could the little boy who cried over the loss of the family pet or the young man who sought counseling after his first official kill in battle.turn into the scourge of Sirius.
The main view screen popped back on, snapping the admiral out of his contemplative stupor. The bridge of the Necrosis once again displayed. The admiral immediately shot an angry look toward the comm. station below him but quickly learned that they had nothing to do with it.
Now now Daddy, MonStar's voice sent chills up the admirals spine, you keep that up and Ill start to think you dont care.
The admiral looked at the image on the screen, looked into the eyes of the monster displayed there. He hung his head again. No, he thought, that wasnt his son. Not any longer. Whatever that thing on the screen was, it wasnt his son. The admiral swallowed hard, trying to find the courage to do what he knew he had to do.
Tell me Pops, hows mom doing? MonStars image left the screen once more as the comm. station regaining control once again.
The admiral could feel all the eyes on the bridge looking at him in silence. He looked out at them, meeting their gaze only momentarily. He stopped his eyes at an arbitrary spot in the walkway between comms and tactical.
Fire his voice came out as a mere a whisper.
Sir? one of the crew asked, not understanding what he had said.
Admiral Darkheart shot a stern look at the questioning crewman, FIRE!
“That’s our cue.” the husky voice of the pilot was somewhat muffled by his flight helmet and the close proximity of the interior walls of his Sabre’s cockpit, “Delta Wing, it’s time to earn your pay. Bombers begin your run, fighters keep your eyes peeled for enemy targets we gotta keep those bombers covered.”
The pair of bombers reacted to their wing commanders orders instantly, making a sharp turn and heading full speed toward their target. The three remaining fighters fell in line behind the bombers shadowing their movements, the precision of their movements seemed to be well rehearsed.
“Alright team, watch for Kappa Wing. They’ll be coming in from the other side. We don’t need any collisions here.”
“Sir!” a voice rang out clearly in the wing commanders helmet, “We got a bogey leaving out of the targets hanger bay.”
“I see it.” The husky voice of the wing commander was calm despite the explosion of activity around him, “Delta Four and Five break formation and intercept. I’ll stay with the bombers.”
“Aye!” the pilots of the two fighters spoke in unison as they turned toward their new target and sped off.
The two fighters caught up to their enemy in a matter of moments. Action erupted instantly with the three ships tumbling around each other trying to get the advantage.
The veteran wing commander didn’t watch the dogfight; his focus remained on his own task. He scanned the battle scene in front of him. He and the bombers he was escorting, were finding the route to their target a difficult one. They weaved in and out through the turret fire and missile explosions trying to get in position to fire their salvo of torpedoes.
His focus was broken however when he saw the icon in his HUD that represented Delta Five disappear. The distraction caused him to take a few grazing shots nearly dropping his shields completely. He regained his focus immediately, his veteran experience taking over.
“Target eliminated sir,” Delta Four said a few moments later, “but we lost Delta Five.”
“There’s no greater honor than dying in combat, we should all be so lucky.” The wing commander said trying to bolster his fellow pilots, “let’s not make his death a pointless one. Delta Two and Three, we're in range. When you have a clear shot, take it.”
The two falcatas assumed a side-by-side formation then launched their torpedoes at the same time, both scoring successful hits.
“Well done Delta Wing. Now lets regroup and prepare for another pass.”
The fighter wing looped around and flew away from the main fight. They dodged the renegade destroyer’s weapon fire with precision, taking only a few hits during the bombing run but none were enough to even drop one of the fighter’s shields.
“Ok just like we did last time folks,” the Wing Commander announced, “with the pounding that Destroyer is taking from the caps. This shouldn’t last much longer. Delta Four resume formation.”
Once the fighters were out of range of the Necrosis’ turrets they swung back around and began their second bombing run.
“Alright delta, stay loose and remember your…” he was cut off by a spray of color coming from his right. The color was weapon fire and it was directed and one of the bombers in front of him. He turned to see Delta Four coming in fast weapons blazing. Before he could even react to what was happening he saw Delta Four fly full speed into the bomber it had just been shooting. The weapons fire from the fighter must have been enough to lower the bombers shield, upon impact both ships exploded in a bright flash.
Delta Wings commander looked on in shock. He couldn’t believe what he just saw. He watched helplessly as the debris from both ships tumbled off into space.
The sudden static on his HUD snapped the commander out of his disbelieving stare. The static cleared revealing a digitally generated face, one he didn’t recognize.
“What the hell?” The commander said to himself, completely confused and disoriented by everything. His ship turned, but he hadn’t moved his controls. His eyes widened as he moved his controls and the ship didn’t respond.
Psi-Borg smeared an evil smirk across his face as he looked at the commander from within the HUD.
“Who….,” the words came hard, and he choked on the rest of his sentence. His eyes widened in panic as his next breath barely came and only after a struggle. He grasped at the life support controls on the console beside him but none of them worked. He held his breath as long as he could but the rapid beat of his heart used the oxygen up quickly. Finally he couldn’t hold it any longer and out of desperation opened his mouth to take a breath, but nothing was there.
The Delta Wing Commander slowly suffocated while he was forced to watch his own ship open fire on his last remaining wing man.
Dammit! the captain shouted. Letting his frustrations get the better of him. He was the captain of the Emerald Lady, one of the two destroyers assigned to the Outcasts 512th fleet, the other being the Star Reaper. Being the newly appointed captain of this vessel seemed to show as the stress of the battle his ship was caught in escalated.
Sir, a voice from the captains side announced, Weve lost Delta Wing.
The captain slammed his hand down onto the railing in front of him. How is this possible, one renegade ship holding its own against the whole of the 512th?
Sir, the sensor tech broke the captains monologue and received a stern look in return. The captain held his gaze and raised his eyebrows as if to signal the technician to continue. After a hard found swallow the tech did as the captain silently commanded, Scans indicate that the vessel has been modified from the original design of the ship. Data indicates a significant increase in armor, as well as increased output of the ships turrets and maneuvering thrusters.
Well thank you for stating the obvious, the captain sneered and offered a sarcastic bow, Perhaps your scanners told you that my eyes dont function as well? the tech sunk into his chair a bit as the captain held his stare a few moments longer before turning his attention back the main viewing screen.
The Emerald Ladys cannons fired volley after volley at the Necrosis. However, due to the erratic maneuvers of the renegade ship, most of the cannon fire found only empty space. The captain ground his teeth together in anger just as he was about to explode in another fit of rage a call from comms stopped him short. Instead of the rail in front of him he aimed his emotional release at the comm station tech. WHAT?!
The tech turned white and only answered the captain after he threw his arms wide and repeated his question What?
Incoming message from the Maltese Fox. the tech said sheepishly.
The captains eyes widened a bit. He stood up straight and brushed the few wrinkles out of his uniform. After a deep breath he began nodding his head, finally motioning to the tech, Well, lets have it then.
The images on the main screen were replaced with the visage of Admiral Darkheart, a cold serious look on his face.
Admiral we the captain began to speak but the admiral didnt seem to even register that the captain had even opened his mouth.
Captain, the renegade is maneuvering so that the Emerald Lady stays between that ship and my own. You are to come to a full stop and continue the battle from a static position so that I may bring the Maltese Foxs cannons to bear and end this conflict before anymore Outcasts are lost.
Yes sir. The captain barely got his response out before the transmission ended. The captain bit his lip holding back the words he wanted nothing more than to let spew out. He had played the role of fool in front of his commanding officer and was called on it. His knuckles went white as he squeezed the rail the leaned on.
Helm full stop. I will not play the role of this renegades unwitting shield any longer. he said through gritted teeth.
As the Emerald Lady came to a stop, the Necrosis soon came into full view of the Maltese Fox. The full array of turrets lining the battleship opened fire, sending a cloud of color toward the madman. The Necrosis, uncharacteristically nimble for its ship class, continued to dodge most of the weapon fire aimed at it while continuing to concentrate on the second of the pair of destroyers, the Star Reaper.
Both ships were heavily damaged, at first it was clear that the Star Reaper was losing the fight but once the Maltese Fox began its full assault the tide soon changed in favor of the 512th.
The captain of the Emerald Lady watched intently as the Necrosis, despite its agility, began to take heavy damage from the Outcast fleet. Several small explosions on the renegade ship made the captains heart skip a beat as with each he thought the ship was sure to explode. Out of the corner of his viewing screen he saw the remaining fighters of Kappa Wing swoop past, heading in for another bombing run.
Ah yes, the captain smiled, here comes the end of this little encounter. The captain brought up his hands and rubbed them together in anticipation of the Necrosis impending doom.
The two remaining ships of Kappa Wing darted in fast toward the Necrosis lining up for what was certain to be the killing stroke. The captain of the Emerald Ladys eyes went wide and a wave of nausea washed over him when at the last moment the fighters turned and unloaded their weapons onto the Star Reaper.
The fighters torpedoes slammed into the Star Reaper, those coupled with the continued onslaught of the Necrosis turrets were more than the destroyer could handle and the hull of the ship cracked with a bright flash. The captain of the remaining destroyer of the 512th looked on in shock, stunned by the unbelievable events unfolding before his very eyes.
He could hear his heart beating in his ears. His shock was quickly replaced with a blind rage that made his head feel like it was on fire.
All ahead full! the captain said with more than a little spittle shooting from his mouth.
But captain the admir. A voice tried to protest but was cut short by the irate captain.
Silence! I want those bastards dead! the captain had lost control; his anger and inexperience clouded his judgment. The crew on the bridge hesitated; they could see that the captain was thinking irrationally.
What are you waiting for?! the captain screamed toward the helm station.
But sir. The tech started to say but stopped short as a shout from across the room cut in.
Incoming!
All head turned to see the remnants of Kappa Wing coming straight toward the Emerald Lady. While all eyes focused on the two fighters coming in fast, the Necrosis was finishing the last part of a sidelong loop it had started as the Star Reaper began to break apart. As the Necrosis came about, its potent turrets opened fire on the Emerald Lady.
The impacts of the fighters torpedoes and the Necrosis fire jarred the crew of the Emerald Lady back into action. They all scrambled trying to refocus on their tasks; the helm technician increased the engines to full and began evasive maneuvers. However, for as hard as they tried, they were already too late.
The destroyers shields lit up as the numerous torpedoes and energy blast slammed into them. At first it seemed as if they were going to hold under barrage of damage inflicted on them, but then the two fighters of Kappa Wing slammed into the Emerald Lady at full speed. The shield sizzled as the mass of the fighters fought to break through. The flash from the impacts of the fighters hit the captains eyes hard, forcing him to turn his head away.
Captain? the voice was meek, almost like the person speaking had just discovered their favorite pet had died.
The captain looked back to the main monitor just in time to see the nose of the Necrosis, at the end of its loop, slam into the Emerald Lady. The impact broke through the remaining shields to make a solid contact with the hull. The force of the impact knocked the captain off his feet. Not having landed as hard as he could have he quickly scrambled to regain his view of the main screen.
The captains heart felt as if it had stopped as he saw the nose of the Necrosis, grinding a groove through the hull of his ship directly toward the bridge. His eyes widened as he scrambled backwards, trying to escape in vain. He reached his captain chair just in time to see the wall behind the bridges main viewing screen break open.
Admiral Darkheart leaned forward in his command chair hanging his head low staring blankly at the floor between his feet. He was trying hard to stop from being overwhelmed by the anger and shame that were accosting his senses.
The anger was aimed at the scene that had just played out before him. The fleet, his fleet, was just systematically picked apart and destroyed by one enemy ship. Scores of Outcast, under his command, were now dead. Victims of a renegade ship piloted by a madman. The shame came from the knowledge of who that madman was, his son. The boy he had raised and loved with all his heart was now the bane of life itself.
The Admiral looked up at the scene on the main monitor once more. The Necrosis had finally separated from the Emerald Lady whose guns had stopped firing shortly after the front corner of the Necrosis had destroyed the ships bridge. The engines, still obeying their last command, remained on full. Pushing the Emerald Lady away from the battle, with no means of ever stopping itself.
The Necrosis came to a slow stop; its guns also falling silent upon the collision with the Emerald Lady. The ships hull was littered with extensive damage from the barrage it had taken thus far. Numerous small explosions continued to flash across the vessel spewing flame into space as the atmosphere inside the ship leaked out. The recent rubbing with the other destroyer had pushed in the hull and structural framing on the front of the ship at a forty-five degree angle, reaching back nearly a quarter of the ships length. With the Necrosis at a dead stop and the Emerald Lady speeding off uncontrollably, it wouldnt be long until the Necrosis was once again clear for the guns of the Maltese Fox to resume their onslaught.
Wait until the Emerald Lady is clear, he said holding up a hand, There are sure to be survivors who will be in need of rescuing once this renegade is dispatched.
A loud pop came over the speaker lining the bridges perimeter sending most of the crew a few inches above their seats. Before anyone could determine what caused the sound the answer was revealed to them.
Well daddy, that sure was fun. MonStars overly jovial voice filled the quiet entirety of the Dreadnaughts Bridge. Before he could speak another word the admiral, his emotions getting the best of him, allowed himself an uncharacteristic outburst.
Youre no son of mine! he screamed, jumping to his feet as if he was posturing up to the disembodied voice surrounding him.
Aww now pop, the madman spoke in a mockingly hurt tone, Im sure you dont mean that. After all you just introduced me to your closest friends.
The way MonStar referred to his recently fallen comrades made the Admirals face turn red and grit his teeth.
Oh what joy it was dancing with those folks. But, in the end they couldnt keep up with your pride and joy here. Oh what pride you must feel father. Seeing your favorite son play so well with your friends.
The admiral looked to the screen, watching intently as the last bit of the Emerald Lady slipped from below the Necrosis. He wanted nothing more than to give the order to open fire and end this confrontation once and for all.
I thought it only fitting, MonStar continued his tone becoming darker. A sinister draw latching onto his following words, to introduce you to one of my friends.
The admirals brow furrowed, as he tried to ascertain the meaning of the maniacs cryptic wording.
Psi-Borg, meet my dear ole dad. As MonStar finished that last sentence all the screens across the entire bridge of the Maltese Fox filled with a momentary static followed by the appearance of digitized face, its eyes fixed on Admiral Darkheart.
Open Fire! the admiral hastily shouted. Realizing too late the meaning
The admirals command was answered by Psi-Borg shaking his head in defiance. The admiral looked to the tactical station in near panic. But the admirals fears were confirmed when he received looks of panic in return.
Its been so very long since weve seen each other father, MonStar carried on as if hed not heard his fathers command to kill him, All the holidays and birthday celebrations Ive missed have certainly mounted up over the years. He paused, having to fight back an obvious giggle in his voice. So to make up for all Ive missed Im going to give you a very special present. A solar cruise.
The image of Psi-Borg was reduced to only stretch over half of the main screen leaving the other to once again show the view in front of the Dreadnaught. The crew on the bridge could tell the ship was moving.
Theyve taken control of the ship! A hysterical shout rang out from the helm. That set some of the crew into a panic and they began rushing for the doors leading off the bridge only to find the doors sealed tight which only increased their frenzy.
Enjoy your trip dad, MonStar quipped, Dont forget to bring me back a souvenir HAHAHAHAHAAAAA..
The madmans laughter assaulted the admirals senses, sending chills up his spine. He fell back down into his command chair, a blank look on his face. He looked at the main viewing screen, now showing nothing but the Maltese Foxs next location, the largest of the three stars in the system. It grew steadily larger on the screen as the mighty ship speed toward it.
The admiral sat very still, oblivious to the scene of madness as the crew fell deep into mass panic. He stared at his approaching doom without blinking and despite the circumstances found himself smiling.