Red Nova
Chapter Six

Ubieria’s Utopia

Keith teleported into a large outdoor swimming pool, firing his weapon what with the sudden shock of him being under water. He swam to the surface, coughing. The night of an unknown planet greeted him while he got out of the pool. Jolus was there too, drenched and hiding behind bushes. They had been teleported in what seemed to be a backyard with a mansion in front of them. Fortunately for them, no one witnessed their arrival.

“Why did Shiva use the Casimir on us?” asked Jolus.

Keith shook his head. “That’s an AI for you. It’s unstable and arrogant,” he said, coughing. “Where are we?”

“Well, if my scanner hasn’t malfunctioned, we seem to be on Ubieria,” said Jolus.

Keith sighed with relief for the first time since the syndicate attacked. Ubieria was a planet of civilization where all galactic species lived and accepted one another equally. Even vel’pheasians were welcomed. And, as usual, the IGF was the governing power of Ubieria.

“Finally, some fresh air!” said Keith jubilantly.

“Keep it down,” said Jolus, agitated by his reaction.

“Uh-oh,” uttered Keith, staring at the mansion.

The lights on the second floor of the home turned on. An old man wearing a robe walked toward the bay window and looked down at his yard.

“What is it, dear?” asked his wife, lying in bed.

“I thought I heard someone shouting in our yard,” said the old man.

“Are you sure?” asked his wife. “No one in this colony has ever been reported for trespassing. Do you see anything?”

“No,” said the old man. “It must have been my imagination.”

The old man turned the lights off and walked away.

Keith and Jolus deactivated their cloaking fields via their UNDs and remained near the bushes.

“Whew, that was close,” said Keith.

“Thanks to you,” said Jolus.

Keith laughed. “Sorry, man. I was just excited to get out of that hellhole,” he said. “At least we had these nifty cloaking fields to hide. How did you replace them?”

“I discovered them in Shiva’s GT,” said Jolus.

“Interesting,” said Keith. “I wonder what else is in here.” He logged on to the GT via his UND, which automatically transferred him into Shiva’s GT; it showed him countless weapons, grenades, and armors in the system. “Pretty damn sweet. Now what?”

“We need to get out of here and replace the others,” said Jolus.

“Right,” said Keith, yawning. “We also need to replace us some sleep. Say, do you know where Twilight is? Is it even on this planet?”

“Checking,” said Jolus. He pulled up the Ubierian interface and typed in a search for the cantina. After a few seconds of waiting, the UND displayed the exact coordinates of Twilight. “It’s here,” he added. “But it’s about four hours away. We’ll need a car.”

“It’s never simple,” said Keith, frowning.

“Hold on,” said Jolus, continuing to click his UND. Its screen displayed numerous maps, and then a dot appeared just a few miles away from Jolus’ current location, blinking. “There’s a taxi service not far from here. We can ask them to pick us up by the street here.”

“Taxi service?” said Keith. “Don’t tell me it’s an android service. You know how much I hate those.”

“Got a better idea?”

“No,” said Keith, sighing.

“Then what’re you waiting for?” said Jolus. “Make the call.”

A few hours passed, and nighttime arrived. Ubieria’s planetary superhighway glittered with oval lights embedded in the parkway’s barriers. Unlike ancient throughways, the dividers separating cars from different directions were higher than all vehicles to avoid drivers being blinded by one another’s lights. And though hovercars existed, only those in the IGF, such as police, were allowed to use them on Ubieria since the IGF government felt aerial traffic would be too chaotic.

Whether an off-worlder or Ubierian citizen, people had to obey the law and use regular transportation by means of the planetary highway that extended throughout the entire colony. Though dark on the thruway, there were still many automobiles, one of which was a neon taxi whose automaton was driving Keith and Jolus to quadrant S, where Twilight was located. The car—as were all vehicles—was attached to the road like a monorail. This technology prevented cars from swerving off the road. Drivers only had to worry about changing lanes, shifting gears, or increasing their speed when needed. It was even easier for androids, such as the one driving the neon taxi.

After taking a four-hour nap in the vehicle, Keith woke up.

“Your destination is approaching, Mr. Bako,” said the android. “We shall arrive in approximately ten minutes, fifty-three seconds, and thirty-one milliseconds.”

“Thank you, UB041,” said Jolus.

“You’re aware that this is going to cost us a lot of credits, right?” said Keith.

“UB041, what’s our total fare for the evening?” asked Jolus.

“Computing, one moment please,” replied the android inertly. Keith pretended to imitate the android. Jolus looked at Keith, rolling his eyes. “Traveling from quadrant B to quadrant S is six thousand credits, Mr. Bako.”

“Six thousand?” said Keith, distressed. “Only the presidents of the UEC and IGF have that kind of money! And last I checked, I’m neither one of them!”

“If you do not have the valid funds, then I must contact the IGF police,” said the android.

“Don’t worry, UB041,” said Jolus. “My friend is just teasing you. It’s typical human humor, especially from a spic. We have the credits.”

“You have six thousand credits?” asked Keith, raising an eyebrow.

“Come on,” said Jolus. “Is the cloaking field the only new thing you’ve looked at in Shiva’s GT?”

“Damn it, nigga,” said Keith. “Do I have to look again? I’m still tired.”

He clicked his UND and logged on to the GT. His mouth dropped open when he looked at the account’s money, which read: Eight million credits. Keith stared at Jolus with his eyes wide open. Jolus nodded at him, smirking.

“Yes, UB041,” said Keith. “I’m a bit too whimsical for my own good.”

Ten minutes later, they arrived. Jolus transferred his credits to the automaton and got out of the car with Keith. They stretched and looked at Twilight, a fancy nineteen-leveled building that stood in quadrant S—an area for nightlife. Myriad people were there, including rifters who rifted high above the skyscrapers. Others walked along the sidewalk. It was a marvelous sight to Keith and Jolus, but what mostly took them by surprise was the fashion.

The citizens of Ubieria had an eccentric style: men were clothed in trench coats, capes, and fedoras while women wore exotic dresses, cloche hats, fishnet gloves, and stockings. Most noticeable to the soldiers, however, was that the populace wore masks that, with the exception of their eyes and lips, covered their faces.

“I completely forgot about their fashion,” said Jolus.

“Same here,” said Keith. He glanced at the armor he wore and added, “No doubt there’ll be looking at us suspiciously.”

“Well, let’s hope we replace the others quickly,” said Jolus.

The duo walked into Twilight’s scene, a dark fresco of prismatic lights and wild dancing stirred by techno-ambient music. Without a doubt, thought Keith, it was a freakish reminder of the music from the 1980s. He felt like he’d entered an ancient cult club only found in the late twentieth century. And he loved it. In truth, this felt like home to him.

As for Jolus, he looked as though he would’ve preferred being back on Aydis.

“Let me know if you replace them,” said Keith, bopping over to the dance floor.

The patrons on the dance floor gawked at Keith who showed up without a mask and wore a UEC military suit. He danced next to a petite fe’lorian dressed in green with a jester-looking mask that only revealed her orange lips.

“I like the costume,” said Keith, smiling.

The petite fe’lorian turned around while she said, “Freak.”

Keith flinched and watched her jostle deeper into the crowd, dancing beside a veiled calisian. He shrugged and continued to dance around other patrons. This was freedom, thought Keith. At last, he could breathe and live a normal life without wondering if he was about to die. Admiral Bisel was dead, and that made him happy. No one could tell him what to do now—not even Commander Mar’kett. With nearly an infinite amount of money, he could rent the fanciest room and sleep with any woman he wanted. Tonight would be a night of absolute freedom; it would be his dream come true.

In the meantime, Jolus found a corner to sit down. He couldn’t even see Keith because of how many people were inside Twilight. Most of them danced wildly while the loud music filled his ears. A fe’lorian waitress eventually approached him.

“You must be an off-worlder,” said the waitress. “Let me guess. Earth?”

Jolus glanced at her. “Yes, ma’am,” he said.

“Figures,” said the waitress. “Want anything?”

“Amarula,” he said.

The waitress nodded and left to get his drink. Jolus observed the club, watching patrons clad in the strangest clothes and masks dance and converse. He felt it was interesting how their fashion was completely normal to them, and yet to a foreigner, such as himself, his attire was an oddity. Not a minute later, the waitress returned with his drink. While taking a sip of it, the music changed to jazz.

Keith approached Jolus and joined him. “This place is wild,” he said. “It reminds me of the movies back in the twentieth century.”

“Tell me about it,” said Jolus.

“You don’t like it here?” asked Keith.

“Everyone thinks we’re weird,” said Jolus. “Not exactly my kind of utopia.”

“At least someone served you,” said Keith. “Let me get a sip of that.”

Jolus slid his glass across the table to Keith who caught it and drank the entire thing in a single gulp.

“Thanks,” said Keith in a rejuvenated tone.

“I thought you said a sip,” said Jolus.

Keith laughed. “That was a sip…by Ubierian standards,” he said.

“Right,” said Jolus, sighing.

“Listen,” said Keith, “there’s this hot chick sitting across from us who’s been staring at me since we got here. She’s wearing black. Can you see her?”

“You want me to look now?” asked Jolus.

“No, tomorrow,” said Keith curtly. “Yes, jackass, look now.”

Jolus observed and noticed the woman who was staring directly at them. She wore black, just as Keith had said, and had a silver mask on, covering her entire face. Upon seeing her, Jolus turned away.

“How do you know she’s hot?” he inquired. “I can’t even see her lips. What if she takes off her mask and she’s busted with pimples and vel’pheasian teeth.”

“Don’t be stupid,” said Keith. “You know that’s not a vel.”

Jolus gave out a hefty laugh. “Your call, man,” he said, shrugging.

“Come on, let’s double bang her,” said Keith.

“What?” said Jolus. “Are you crazy?”

“Dude, remember that chick in the academy?”

“That was five years ago,” said Jolus, rolling his eyes. “And she was the most beautiful woman I had ever seen in my life. No one resisted her. For all we know that woman over there can be deformed.”

“Don’t be such a pussy, man,” said Keith. “She’s not deformed. Just look at her clothes. She’s rich. Maybe she’s even hotter than Dana.”

“You remembered her name?” said Jolus in disbelief.

“Only because she was the hottest chick,” said Keith. “Come on, man. We don’t get chances like this very often. We got loads of credits and—”

“Okay, okay,” said Jolus. “But I’m warning you, if she’s ugly, I’m out.”

“Trust me, I’ll be out before you,” said Keith.

Jolus shook his head. “This better be worth it,” he said.

The duo got up at the same time and walked across the dim aisle where two men leaned against a wall, kissing each other passionately. Upon passing by them, Keith and Jolus reached the table where the black-dressed woman sat. And, sure enough, she was staring at Keith. Or at least that was how it appeared, considering her mask had no slits for her eyes.

“Hey, baby,” said Keith. “Have time for the two of us?”

Jolus winked at her.

“Greetings, gentlemen,” she said. “I have been waiting for your arrival for approximately one hour, thirty-three minutes, fourteen seconds, and two milliseconds.”

Keith took a step back. “Shiva?” he said. “What the heck?”

“Glad to hear your original voice,” said Jolus.

“So am I, Captain Bako,” said Shiva.

Keith took a seat. “How come you didn’t come over to us?” he asked.

“That, I am afraid, would have been too conspicuous,” said Shiva.

“Too conspicuous?” said Keith, raising an eyebrow. “What?”

“Do you know where the others are?” inquired Jolus.

“Indeed,” said Shiva. “They shall rendezvous with us in quadrant X.”

“Why choose Ubieria instead of Earth?” asked Keith.

“Careful, man,” said Jolus. “You sound disappointed.”

Keith grumbled. “Only disappointed that she’s not a hot chick,” he said.

“Two reasons,” said Shiva. “Sequence One: Ubierian fashion was most suitable for our needs to remain concealed until meeting. Sequence Two: classified.”

“Great,” said Keith, sighing. “More classified shit.”

“I cannot exert edible excretions, Commander Wernn,” said Shiva.

Jolus laughed. “Well then, what are we waiting for?”

In the meantime, several UEC probes were scanning the Phoenix Nebula in The Raging Gamut for life signs. Aydis was nowhere to be seen. All of the probes maneuvered slowly while emitting a field of light that gave sight to debris. Behind the exploring machines was an armada of starships, which had the UEC logo on their wings. They were known as the First Fleet. And the flagship was called Eochaid Ollathair.

On the highest level of the spacecraft was an observation chamber that revealed Gamut’s nebula from a windowpane with a width of a thousand feet. Malcolm Renfred, a detective assigned to the Seventh Fleet military, had just finished teleporting there via an elevator portal. He wore a navy mandarin-collared suit. And though a bit unusual for UEC standards, he had a thick but well-groomed beard. Renfred walked to the front of the chamber, where President Richard Weldner of the UEC stood, watching the mechanical probes in space.

“Mr. President,” said Renfred, “we have detected what appears to be debris of the Tenth Fleet wreckage. And even though this is heavily classified information, there was once a planet orbiting here known as Aydis. But, like the Tenth Fleet, it’s gone. We can’t even pick up a trace with our scanners.”

“Have you discovered anything else?” asked President Weldner.

“No, sir,” said Renfred, his eyes downcast. “However, aside from the probes we have launched, something else that is very troubling has appeared in our GT databank.”

“Well, don’t keep me in suspense, detective,” said Weldner.

“It’s about Goliath’s AI, sir,” said Renfred. “It’s modus operandi was released by Admiral Bisel before the ship’s destruction. And there’s also been an unusual hack in our GT.”

Weldner took a deep breath. “You think Goliath’s AI is still functional and hacking into our system?”

“It’s all we can come up with,” said Renfred.

“Interesting,” said Weldner. “But I need evidence, detective.”

“I’m sorry, sir,” said Renfred. “We’re doing the best we can, but right now we’re still attempting to figure out what happened here.”

“Detective, what do we know about Niralus’ motives? Why was he in a classified sector in Gamut?”

“Well,” began Renfred, “the admiral clearly disobeyed UEC protocols. There were also records of him entering Khiylos’ colony: Onnas Asan, where he violated our treaty with Vignia Corporation, and reportedly kidnapped Vreffith Larser.”

“I heard about the kidnapping...that damn fool,” said Weldner with a sigh. “What about Vreffith? Is he dead along with Niralus?”

“No, sir,” answered Renfred. “In fact, this is where it starts to get confusing. I contacted Vignia Corporation myself just before I arrived here, and when I asked about Vreffith they told me the kidnapping was a false report. They said Vreffith Larser had never been taken, and that he’s still there.”

President Weldner groaned, rubbing his chin. “Strange indeed,” he said. “Here are your new orders, detective: take your ship back to M-Galaxy and schedule a meeting with Vreffith. Find out what really happened.”

“What about the AI?” asked Renfred.

“We need more evidence before we can assume that an AI’s hacking into our GT,” said Weldner. “For all we know the scientists may have lost control of their polder, pulling them and the Tenth Fleet into a black hole. So hold off on that AI theory of yours for now and focus on Vreffith’s true whereabouts.”

“Yes, sir.”

Detective Renfred returned to the elevator portal and ported out of the observation deck while President Weldner continued gazing at Gamut’s space.

He then muttered to himself, “Niralus, what have you done?”

In the meantime, Keith and Jolus used Ubieria’s taxi service. They were accompanying Shiva, traveling in a black limo since they had limitless funds. Ubieria’s star, twice the size of Earth’s sun, was beginning to rise while the trio traveled on the planetary superhighway.

“It shouldn’t take too long to reach quadrant X, right?” asked Keith.

“Correct,” said Shiva. “I have calculated the trajectory by means of the Universal Network Device. Quadrant X is exactly twenty-three minutes, eleven seconds, and—”

“Okay,” said Keith. “I get it. We’re almost there. Thanks.”

“Is this colony literally categorized using one of Earth’s graphemes?” asked Jolus.

“Affirmative,” answered Shiva. “Ubieria is the largest and most organized planet of the Inter-Galactic Federation. Most of the districts from quadrant A to quadrant K are residential. However, quadrant L through quadrant V are the heart of Ubieria’s life: production, commerce, marketing, commercial shopping, and clubs such as Twilight.”

“I’m starting to feel like a tourist,” said Keith.

Jolus laughed. “So, if the Ubierian industry and nightlife end around quadrant V, then what’s beyond it?”

“Starports, medical stations, and engineering bays,” said Shiva.

“I’m assuming your intention is to book a flight to Earth?” said Jolus.

“Negative,” said Shiva. “I intend to purchase a starship.”

Keith nearly fainted. “Do you realize how much it cos—wait, never mind.”

“How long will we be staying here?” inquired Jolus.

“Forty-eight Earth hours, Captain Bako,” said Shiva.

“That’s a long time,” said Keith. “But I guess it gives us time to stay on the down low while the syndicate searches for us.”

“Right,” said Jolus. “I’m sure they think we traveled straight to Earth.”

“Earth shall eventually be our destination,” said Shiva. “However, we need something vital for our mission to be successful, and that is why we are here.”

“Finally,” said Jolus, looking out the window. “It’s daylight.”

“Tch, took long enough,” said Keith.

“Ubieria’s orbit is extraordinarily different from other Inter-Galactic Federation planets,” said Shiva. “In fact, Ubieria is quite the opposite of Earth. For example, Ubieria has six hours of daylight, which is when most of its lawful citizens are asleep.”

“Interesting,” said Jolus. “So they actually work during the night?”

“You are ninety-two percent correct,” said Shiva.

Jolus chuckled. “What about the other eight percent?”

“Quadrant X functions at all times regardless of the hour,” she replied. “It is the nucleus of Ubieria’s production district.”

“That reminds me,” said Keith abruptly. “With the exception of the mask, shouldn’t we be dressed like you?”

“An intelligent deduction, Commander Wernn,” said Shiva. “But it is unnecessary where we are traveling. Such fashion is only used outside of quadrant X.”

“I see,” said Keith. “Then how come you still look like Miyamoto Musashi’s wife?”

“I beg your pardon,” said Shiva. “Who?”

“Forget it, Shiva,” said Jolus. “He’s an idiot.”

“Actually, Captain Bako, the dossier in my databank indicates that Commander Wernn is quite efficient, both intellectually and psychologically,” said Shiva.

Keith and Jolus laughed in chorus.

“That’s another thing,” said Keith. “You need to seriously loosen up more. Talk like us. Otherwise, your ‘Sequence Two’ will go out the window.”

Shiva glanced at the windowpane beside her. “I do not believe anything will be falling out of the window. It is sealed.”

Jolus guffawed while Keith pressed his hands against his forehead, deciding it would be best to stay quiet for the rest of the ride.

In the meantime, Commander Mar’kett was leaning against one of the traffic light’s poles of quadrant X. Private McKenzie was there too, sitting by the pole’s base. They’d been waiting for hours to rendezvous with Shiva.

“Are we going home soon?” asked McKenzie.

“I’ll pretend your question was a joke, Private,” said Rena Mar’kett.

McKenzie gave out a sigh, his eyes downcast. Not one minute later, a limo appeared in the distance, approaching the street where the duo were waiting. It then stopped in front of them. McKenzie was startled by the vehicle, but Mar’kett expected that Shiva was inside. The limo’s doors soon opened, and sure enough Shiva, Keith, and Jolus sat there. After paying the android for its service, the trio exited the car.

Mar’kett walked over and said, “I think this is the only time I’ll ever feel happy to see you, Sergeant.”

Keith smirked at her and replied, “You’re happy seeing me all the time. You’re just too shy to admit it.”

“In your dreams,” she said.

McKenzie, amused by them, gripped his thigh in pain while getting up.

“It’s good to see the two of you,” said Jolus. “Feeling better?”

“I think so,” said McKenzie. “Thanks.”

“So, what’s the plan?” asked Keith.

“We shall replace refuge in Ubieria’s primary engineering bay, which is directly across from us,” said Shiva. “Follow me.”

Most of the buildings were dome and swirl-shaped with ivory coatings. Despite all the noise caused by engines and other Ubierian machinery in quadrant X, it seemed rather peaceful to be here, thought Keith. Across the five-lane intersection stood an engineering bay with a large name etched above its entrance: Little Mama’s Shop.

Upon walking inside, the quintet spotted several vel’pheasian mechanics constructing an IGF tourist flagship. The crew felt distressed by the mere sight of them. Shiva, however, ignored them. She walked to the side and reached an enormous counter, yet no one stood there.

“Looks like they’re a bit too busy to help us,” said Keith.

“I’m never too busy for anyone, sugar daddy,” sputtered Teri, climbing up her stool behind the counter.

“Teri!” said Mar’kett in a rejoicing tone.

“Rena!” said Teri. “What’re you doing here?”

“It’s a long story,” replied Mar’kett with a sigh.

Teri, as usual, wore overalls and goggles that resembled binoculars. She also had smears of oil along her perky cheeks. Placing down an engine module, Teri jumped over the counter and gave Mar’kett a hug.

“It’s so good to see a familiar face,” added Mar’kett.

“What’s wrong?” asked Teri.

Mar’kett hesitated to tell her that Bisel was dead. She’d hated Bisel ever since they were attacked in Gamut, but all of her hatred turned into sadness after realizing that he’d been killed. Though her eyes were teary, she shook her head as if everything were all right. Silence fell for a moment.

“So,” began Keith, breaking the silence, “are you going to introduce us to this kid?”

“Who ya callin’ kid?” said Teri. “I’m older than yer grandma, sunny boy.”

“Sunny boy?” said Keith, laughing. “Older than me?”

“Everyone, this is Teri,” said Mar’kett. “She’s—”

“Very special,” interjected Shiva.

Teri froze for a moment while sitting on the counter. Shiva had shifted her voice back to Bisel’s, which was why Teri had recognized it.

“Nirally?” said Teri.

Shiva neither accepted nor rejected the notion of being Bisel. She simply stared at Teri, her mask still on. Then she heard a loud stomping behind her. With the exception of Shiva, the crew winced while a vel’pheasian joined them.

“Is there a problem?” asked the vel’pheasian in a hissing tone.

His slit eyes looked as menacing as a viper’s. Yet his reptilian scute-scaled skin defied his menacing gaze what with the light green complexion. Although hunched, he stood eight-feet tall. He snarled at the soldiers, sniffing them. Not a moment later, Teri reached out and kissed his long snout.

“Calm down, Zarry,” said Teri. “These are old friends of mine.”

“You know how much I hate that name,” he said, grunting.

“Oops,” said Teri, giggling. “Everyone, meet my partner in crime: Zar’kara!”

With the exception of Keith, the soldiers bowed at him. Keith gazed upon Zar’kara with an intriguing expression. He felt there was something different about this particular vel’pheasian, especially because his tusks had been severed. Keith didn’t know too much about the beliefs and ways of vel’pheasians, but he knew enough to know that having tusks were a symbol of political power in their empire since only a few of them were born with tusks. Furthermore, tusks were only severed if exiled from Yak-Shur. The worst problem, thought Keith, was that he had never heard of a vel’pheasian who’d been exiled.

It was a wonder to Keith how Teri could be with such a ferocious and dangerous beast. Whoever this vel’pheasian was, conceded Keith, he had frightening secrets. Zar’kara was more intimidating than any vel’pheasian, or at least that was what Keith concluded while he observed him.

“Nirally, is everything okay?” asked Teri.

“I need your help, Professor,” said Shiva.

Teri blushed. “Oh, pish posh. Ya can just call me Teri. Besides, I’m not a professor anymore. I’m way cooler now.”

“Teri, I am in need of your help,” said Shiva. “Can we speak somewhere private?”

“Sure thing,” said Teri. “Let’s go upstairs to my boogie-woogie lounge.”

“Affirmative,” said Shiva.

Teri looked at Shiva oddly and then jumped off the counter, skipping toward the back of her engineering bay. Zar’kara glared at Shiva suspiciously but eventually gestured her and the others to follow. They noticed a group of vel’pheasian engineers in the center of the chamber connecting the chest piece of a massive UHAT onto its torso.

Shiva and her team went up a staircase in the back and then stepped onto a narrow catwalk. Upon reaching a door at the end of the catwalk, Teri waved her hand by the door’s panel. Registering her G-DNA, the door opened, allowing the crew to enter her studio. Although it was a bit too dolly inside, at least to Keith, it felt cozy enough for him to relax. The walls were painted pink and the interior design had a hippie appearance.

“Lovely place,” said Mar’kett.

“Thanks,” said Teri, smiling. “Zarry ’n I built it.”

Keith raised an eyebrow in disbelief, glancing at Zar’kara who looked back at him with a contorted expression. Zar’kara snarled, showing his fangs, and hissed at Keith as though he read his mind.

“I’m much more than a marauder, human,” said Zar’kara. “Decades ago, I was a Paragon among my clans. My claws were so skilled, I alone carved the will of Yak-Shur into the temples I entered. And I was the greatest pilot. Now, with the exception of those who followed me here, every clan fears me. It is the will of Yak-Shur.”

“Stop teasin’ ’em, Zarry,” said Teri. She rubbed Zar’kara’s thigh and added, “Don’t be scared of him, you guys. Zarry really is quite friendly.”

“I don’t doubt it,” said Keith, gulping heavily.

Zar’kara growled and gave up on reminding Teri how much he hated being called Zarry. There were three reasons why Teri always got her way with Zar’kara: because of how adorable she looked, her resourcefulness as an engineer, and also how sweet she treated him even though he was once a fierce killer.

“He even saved my life once,” said Teri. “That’s how we ended up here.”

Keith wasn’t paying much attention. Instead he stared at Teri’s possessions. On the left wall opposite Teri’s bed hung a rift board, which resembled a primitive surf board except it had miniature engines built into its substructure, allowing it the capacity to hover anywhere through the universe. Keith rushed over to it with an awestruck expression, delicately touching it.

“You have a rift board!” he said excitedly.

“Hands off, home slice,” said Teri. “That’s an R1.”

“Sorry,” said Keith, taking his hands off it. “I’m just amazed you have one, let alone an R1. Man, I remember using an R73 everywhere. That was just before I joined the UEC. I didn’t even think about getting a car.”

“Oh, so you’ve rifted a lot before?” asked Teri.

“Yeah,” he said. “It’s the only sport I ever liked.”

“Keith and I were actually in the tournament back in eighty-six,” said Jolus. He then sighed while adding, “But we lost big time.”

“It ain’t easy being a pro,” said Teri.

Not a second later, they heard a mechanical reverberation by Teri’s window. The garden terrace lowered from the roof, connecting to the studio’s window. When the glass doors opened, Tathagata stepped inside. Other than a few more wrinkles, she looked the same despite the fact that eighteen years had passed since Mar’kett last saw her.

“Even as I dwell in the present moment, Admiral, I can’t seem to let go of my past,” said Tathagata. “Like a hungry ghost, I still cling to it—imprisoned. And here you are, reminding me of the past I’ve tried so hard to detach myself from. Perhaps this is a sign.”

“Margaret,” said Mar’kett to Tathagata, “it’s good to see you again.”

Tathagata bowed and replied, “I’m glad you are all safe.”

“Excellent, everyone is here,” said Shiva. “Now, down to business.”

Teri flopped down on her bed and said, “Oh yar, what’s the deal, Nirally? Why ya got a whole crew wit ya? Finally replace a way ta reverse my condition?”

“I will try developing a theorem that can reverse your aging deficiency, but it will have to wait,” responded Shiva. “What is most pertinent now is that Liagon is still alive.”

A gloomy expression formed on Teri’s face. “I had a feeling you’d tell me that.”

“What do you mean?” asked Mar’kett.

“Liagon and I share the same fe’lorian G-DNA,” said Teri. “I was told in the facility that since fe’lorians share a collective consciousness, I may feel a lingering union mentally. I used to always sense Liagon within my mind. He was the only person who awoke during my time there. But then, after our escape, I didn’t feel him anymore. That is, until two days ago.”

“That’s when Admiral Bisel commanded us to kidnap Vreffith,” said Jolus.

“Vreffith?” asked Teri, confused. “Vreffith Larser of Vignia Corporation?”

“Teri,” said Mar’kett, “Vreffith is Liagon.”

“No way,” said Teri, her eyes widening.

“I am afraid so,” said Shiva firmly.

“Who is Liagon?” asked McKenzie.

“Vreffith’s real name is Liagon,” said Shiva. “He has been alive more than a century. In his normal human life, during the twenty-sixth century, he had volunteered to undergo a science experiment that was said—if successful—to increase life expectancy for humans without the use of medicine or machinery. Fe’lorian physiology, however, proved to have much more potential for humans than just an increase in life. Scientists deduced that fe’lorians originated from stars. Their nuclear blood alone contains enough energy to suspend or create stars. Theoretically, they are able to survive a black hole or supernova. This knowledge was the beginning of Project Nova. If this power is applied to humans, they will virtually become immune to energy-based weapons, cosmic catastrophes, and even termination: death.”

“Wait a minute,” said Jolus. “I thought that fe’lorians live no more than two or three hundred years?”

“Correct,” said Shiva. “However, when fe’lorian molecules are combined with human molecules, the G-DNA alters so drastically that the cells replenish even after several centuries. Such has been the case with Teri.”

The crew in the room glanced at Teri who blushed and smiled.

Shiva continued, “The original goal of Project Nova was to allow humanity to live the same length as fe’lorians and give humans the extraordinary powers fe’lorians possess without disrupting human hormones. You probably know this information already: fe’lorians are asexual and have no recognition of sexuality or any emotions pertaining to intimacy. Humans would not be happy if they were also ignorant of sexuality. So, a great deal of time was focused to perfect the G-DNA alteration. And then, circa 2678, something unthinkable occurred.”

“Our invasion,” said Zar’kara, hissing.

“Indeed,” said Shiva. “The Vel’pheasian Empire invaded IGF territory, which caused a galactic war. This brought the calisians, fe’lorians, and humans closer together than ever before. Unfortunately, not even their alliance was enough to challenge the Vel’pheasian Empire. United Earth Command decided that something drastic had to be done. And that was when they turned to—”

“Project Nova,” said Teri.

Shiva nodded and went on, “Though not perfected, United Earth Command turned to Project Nova; they had hoped to convince Liagon, despite his already aggressive behavior, that vel’pheasians were an extremely dangerous race who were only concerned about war and killing.”

“That’s only half true,” barked Zar’kara. “We don’t just fight anyone. We fight against those who are worthy of the challenge. And when we fight, we fight for honor! For the Yak-Shur!”

“My apologies, noble Zar’kara,” said Shiva, “but these were the original views of humans in 2678. They were neither prepared nor interested to fight your race of warriors for the sake of honor or another reason. In any case, Project Nova backfired on United Earth Command. Liagon has proven himself to be substantially more dangerous than the vel’pheasians.”

“Well,” said McKenzie, “we did win the war after all.”

“Barely,” said Zar’kara menacingly.

“Yet we can’t seem to kill Liagon,” said Keith.

“But why?” asked Teri. “And how’d the bugger survive?”

“Again, fe’lorians possess a molecular structure that is related to the energy of a star, and because Liagon was fused with their genes, a star regenerates him,” answered Shiva. “Whether a supernova or a black hole, Liagon has the capacity to absorb their energy.”

“That’s insane,” said Keith. “Why did we even attempt to go after him?”

“By coincidence, Admiral Bisel discovered via his investigation that Vreffith Larser had undergone facial surgery,” said Shiva. “As he stated in his log, Vreffith is linked to the Black Moon syndicate; however, no evidence has been found. Admiral Bisel performed a background check on Vreffith and realized his G-DNA was identical to Liagon’s. Shortly after, he contacted Doctor Thomas Larbel, the only scientist who was willing to listen. He convinced Larbel to work together with him. The mission was to send Liagon into Vacuity. But, as you witnessed, nothing went as planned.”

“What exactly is Vacuity?” inquired McKenzie.

“Vacuity is the military’s code for a black hole,” said Shiva.

Keith sulked. “So, even if we succeeded and put Liagon in this Vacuity thing, he would have simply absorbed it?”

“That is correct,” responded Shiva. “However, Admiral Bisel did not know this crucial piece of information when he arrested Liagon and took us to planet Aydis. In fact, neither did I until Doctor Nighosha uploaded the completed files of Liagon’s history. That is why I ordered you to evacuate into the Casimir. Admiral Bisel’s plan to lure Liagon into Vacuity would have been futile.”

“Then what’re we supposed to do?” asked Jolus.

“There is only one solution: Sequence Two,” said Shiva.

“Let me guess, it’s still classified?” said Keith.

“Only for now,” said Shiva. “The mission must remain classified to ensure safety precautions.”

“I just have one question,” said Teri. “Why do ya’ll keep referring to Nirally as though he’s somewhere else when he’s right here?”

Upon hearing her question, Shiva removed her mask. Behind the silver mask was Bisel’s face, but the side of it was torn and fizzing due to Liagon’s attack. Teri gasped, thinking it was an android.

“Admiral Bisel chose to entrust me with his mission. He released my modus operandi from the Tenth Fleet ship: Goliath. I was his AI, Model 0009837-Shiva.”

“Whoa, yer an AI?” said Teri.

Shiva put her Ubierian mask back on and changed her voice again. “That is correct,” she said.

“Awesome!” said Teri. “But, um, what happened to Nirally?”

“Liagon terminated him,” said Shiva unsympathetically. Teri and Tathagata stared at Shiva in disbelief. “Admiral Bisel had underestimated Liagon and the Black Moon syndicate. But we can carry out his mission and avenge him.”

“I still can’t believe he’s dead,” said Mar’kett miserably.

Teri patted Mar’kett on the bed. “Rena, I’m so sorry. I didn’t realize what had happened.” She looked back at Shiva and added, “I’ll do whatever I can to help. But, out of curiosity, why is it you need my help?”

“We need a starship that can take us to Earth,” answered Shiva. “Even a Universal Humanoid Adapting Tank can help us. And, most importantly, we need your expertise for Sequence Two.”

“Sequence Two, huh?” said Teri. “Well, let me think about it for a second.” She spun her head around and around while humming a dreamy tune. Keith stared at her as if she had lost her mind. Teri then sputtered, “Okay, ya got it, skipper! But under one condition: Zarry over here comes along.”

Zar’kara roared, baring his razor-sharp fangs. “Teri, my blood has turned upside down staying here to help the IGF. And now you want me to help these humans undo an abomination that was meant to kill my brethren?”

“Please, Zarry?” asked Teri. “I can’t go anywhere without you.”

“I, too, have one condition,” said Zar’kara, grumbling. “The will of Yak-Shur demands it. Shiva shall choose two of her subordinates to battle me. If they can prove themselves, you have my aid. However, if they lose, I’m free of this nonsense.”

“That’s totally unfair,” said Teri. “You know you’ll win, Zarry.”

“I’ll challenge you,” said Mar’kett. “Alone.”

Zar’kara cackled. “You, a woman? I think the AI would be fairer.”

“Underestimating me will be your downfall, Zar,” said Mar’kett.

“Fine!” exclaimed Zar’kara. “Let’s get this over with. Follow me. Our battle will be held downstairs, where my clan can witness your demise and feast on your carcass.”

Margaret Surandes—Tathagata—returned to Teri’s garden and meditated. As usual, she never wanted to interfere or participate in silly disputes. The others went to the first floor of the engineering bay. All of the vel’pheasian mechanics and Tenth Fleet survivors gathered together in a circle. The vel’pheasians were hissing and growling in what seemed to be their version of cheering; they were praising Zar’kara who entered the ring his clan had just formed.

Commander Mar’kett managed to jostle through the crowd, glaring at Zar’kara. She wore a confident expression on her face and looked as healthy as when she visited Brimidia. Ubieria is the perfect planet; it’s not the cold and frail planet that Aydis was, she thought. Mar’kett no longer looked pale, and she wasn’t coughing either. The warm weather made her strong. It was her little secret. No one knew but her. And it made her smile.

“I’m ready,” she said smugly.

“Commander,” called out Private McKenzie.

She turned to him and asked, “What is it?”

“Um, good luck,” he said.

Mar’kett nodded at him and then stepped forward, facing Zar’kara. “I said I’m ready!” she shouted. “And don’t you dare hold back on me just because I’m a woman.”

“For the Yak-Shur!” roared Zar’kara, lunging toward Mar’kett.

Swirling aside, Mar’kett jabbed her fist into his face. In an instant he was dazed. She then pounded her left knuckles against his snout and struck with her other fist. Zar’kara groaned while backing away—drooling—and then dropped to the ground.

“Never underestimate a woman,” said Mar’kett, winking.

The vel’pheasians were silent, utterly surprised. The others, including Teri, cheered and applauded Mar’kett.

“Now listen up,” said Mar’kett firmly. “As I said before, I’m in charge. Shiva, I trust you, but we’ll be doing things by the book. And that means a few changes have to be made. No more military ranks. We have to work together: Keith, Jolus, Bryan, Teri, Zar, and Margaret, too,” she said, glaring at her crew. “Shiva, we’re relying on you the most since you seem to know what’s needed to be done in order to kill Liagon, but I’d prefer if you remain a counselor on our ship, which is what you were always meant to be. You’re only a soldier when needed. Agreed?”

Shiva didn’t say anything. Even though her mask lacked facial expressions, she somehow managed to give Mar’kett an accepting look.

Zar’kara stood up and observed Mar’kett. “No human has ever defeated me before.” He was still dazed but managed to add in a grumbling tone, “You have the strength and heart of a calisian.”

“I’ll…I’ll take that as a compliment,” she said. “So, are you with us?”

“Well, a deal’s a deal,” said Zar’kara, grunting. “Brothers, forget about that IGF flagship. Report to the second shuttle bay and ready the Malvakarian. We’ll be using it for battle. For the Yak-Shur!”

The vel’pheasians roared in a growling cheer at the mere thought of a battle. It seemed as though they were all killers down to the bone no matter what they tried to do with their lives. The soldiers of the UEC felt it was utter madness to travel with cold-blooded killers, but at least these vel’pheasians were their killers now. Teri hugged Zar’kara while the vel’pheasians continued to roar. They then left to prepare their new starship, the Malvakarian.

Shiva stood beside her comrades, examining them with satisfaction. Liagon was still out there, deadly and craving vengeance more than ever before. But for Shiva this was definitely a turning point.