“GCS Fata Morgana, for Brihm Harbor Station, inbound for repairs bearing crew, cargo, and passengers.”, reports Aesilla to the approach controller, “Refueling will not be required until repairs have been completed. We’re down a few tanks at the moment.”
Aboard the bridge of the battered and charred bulk freighter turned warship, Aesilla leaned back in the command chair as the helmsman slowly brought the vessel in toward port, following the standard pattern toward a docking arm. For the first time in several weeks, the captain of the worn vessel felt like she could relax a bit.
Calmly leaning against the nearby wall of the bridge, the militia Colonel kept his green eyes focused on the lights that suddenly came to life marking a trail for the makeshift war vessel to follow… in case it’s autopilot had any issues. His arms crossed over his chest, he wondered how long they were going to be at the Brihm Harbor Station.
“How long do these things take?” Jack asked, finally speaking for the first time in over an hour.
Swiveling the command chair back to face the colonel, Aesilla took a moment to reply, considering the answer before she spoke.
“That depends more on how long the line up is for the repair facilities.”, she replied matter of factly, “But based on the condition of the ships docked here, I don’t think we’ll be waiting for more than 24 hours. The repair process itself will only take maybe two hours for this amount of damage.”
“I see…” He replied softly, turning his attention once more to the view screen. “Honestly, I’m wanting to get back planetside I hate being in ships for more than a month.” As he spoke he pushed himself off the wall and made his way towards the nearby navigational charts, his sword lightly tapping the leg of his dress uniforms pants.
Tapping the large holographic display, the Milky Way galaxy came up, before it zoomed right in to show their current location. As the young senior officer began to examine the map, he fiddled around with the gold cord of his uniform, which was slung over his right shoulder. The grey and black uniform of the Confederate Army seemed to work for the blonde, although he hated the thing, finding it a pain to wear at any time due to how it heated up. But, regulation had it set so that he had to wear his dress uniform when aboard a ship not currently set to combat status. A stupid regulation, but one he still followed. His left breast just above the pocket already having quite the collection of ribbons, while his right had four four metal bar ribbons showing the Campaigns and Major engagements he had been involved in with the 2nd Nikitin Militia Army of the Galactic Confederation.
Aesilla then keyed up the ship’s intercom and announced the following, which would no doubt somewhat alleviate the colonel’s dislike of being stuck on a ship, though only to a degree.
“All hands, this is the captain.”, Aesilla began casually, “We will be docking shortly with Brihm Harbor Station for repair, refuelling, and rearming. For the next 24 hours, any personnel not on duty are permitted leave aboard the station at their discretion. All personnel are expected back aboard at least one hour prior to departure. That is all.”
Having completed the announcement, Aesilla looked back toward Jack.
“What are you looking at on the display?”, Aesilla asks, curiosity driving her interest.
“Hmm? Nothing important, just tracking our route.” He replied with a small smile, before turning to face her for a moment before throwing the map on the view screen in front of the Captain. “But, I do have one thing that bothers me, and that’s where our route has us going through. See here, this is neutral territory, and for good reason too might I add.” Jack added as he walked up beside the Captain’s chair, pointing to the system he described. “Entire sector there is home to slavers and criminal organizations… we do have permission to go through their systems but… there have been reports of entire slaver fleets hitting military transports, be them Ascendancy or Confederate. Apparently, two-hundred Confederate soldiers were enslaved for over three months until we managed to secure their freedom” Pausing a moment, he took a deep breath in before letting it out once more to steady himself, “But, those three months destroyed them mentally and physically. Which is why all vessels were eventually required to house a squadron of fighter craft, and a company or more of Marines, even if they are carrying a combat unit.” As he finished he couldn’t help but feel a bit of unease about their route.
Jack hated slavery and was one of the personal reasons that helped keep him motivated in fighting the war since their Xeno friends and allies were basically treated as slaves by the Ascendancy. Shaking his head of the depressing subject, however, he turned to get a small smile to the Captain.
“Anyways, we should be safe enough travelling through.” He added, trying to reassure the Captain in case there was any sort of issue.
“We’re not going to pass through without incident, colonel.”, Aesilla informed Jack, thereafter querying his memory, “Tell me, what class of vessel was this ship originally? Do you remember?”
Raising a brow for a moment, he couldn’t help but feel a little uneasy given her reply, “A trading vessel if I recall?” He replied, a little unsure.
“Correct.”, Aesilla responded coldly, “And what did the vessel bear as trade goods in its original configuration?”
He was now a little nervous given the tone of the Captain’s voice but pushed aside any further worry away as he opened his mouth to speak. “From what I was told, just grains and the occasional weapon shipment for Confederate use.”
Aesilla’s expression suddenly took on a confused, irritated, and most of all, exasperated expression.
“I don’t know who has been feeding you that load of Krandis manure, colonel.”, Aesilla explained, frustration evident in her voice, “But this vessel came equipped with more berths than cargo space. It’s not a grain hauler or some supply transport.”
Aesilla took control of the holographic display, bringing up an image of the Fata Morgana prior to its conversion, only it wasn’t actually Aesilla’s ship. Below the hologram was a label. It read simply: Craven Class Slave Transport, Miraluka.
“This vessel will be instantly recognized by any ship in the system.”, Aesilla stated forcefully, “Because I got it there.”
The Colonel couldn’t believe what he was seeing, the Fata Morgana was a slaver vessel. “But… wait… so, who or what were you before you came into the ownership of the Miraluka?” He asked out of reflex, his curiosity getting the best of him for a moment. “And, if we’re bound to get into trouble, I think it’d be best to assign the ship to combat ready status throughout the duration of our trip through neutral space.” Jack quickly added before the Captain could reply.
When a ship went into combat readiness, the entire combat garrison aboard the ship would change out of their dress uniforms and instead wear the combat fatigues, ready to armour up for any sort of boarding action should it come to it. Given the history of the ship, it was a safe to bet that whoever spotted the ship would seek to board her rather than blow her up outright… more so if it was a slaver fleet. It was far more valuable to enslave the crew than it was to kill them, as dregs that crewed the slaver ships were easy to replace than valuable and healthy potential slaves.
Aesilla elected, while glaring daggers at the Colonel for his poor choice of words in asking her about her past, to ignore the question not directly related to their current circumstances, and instead explain her plan.
“We can’t very well go into neutral space in a combat-ready posture, colonel.”, Aesilla answers almost immediately, “Such a posture could easily cost us that neutral standing.”
“Externally, yes. But what I’m suggesting is have the Marines at the ready. There’s no way they’d know of them. I’ll remain in my dress uniform though for the time being to give the idea that we’re not at combat-ready status should we be hailed.” Jack replied quickly, doing his best to ignore the daggers being shot at him.
“This is a former slave ship.”, Aesilla retorts, “Our foes know the vessel practically inside and out, save for our modifications, and unless the Confederate forces were well supplied enough to install shielding against sensor intrusion they’ll be able to scan the interior just like any other slave hauler. These ships have several different features designed to prevent a slave revolt that works both for and against us in this scenario.”
Aesilla brings up detailed schematics of the standard configuration on the hologram now, to aid in her explanation.
“First and foremost, the hull is sensor permeable. If a slave revolt does happen, nearby vessels will know nearly instantly and move to put it down.”, Aesilla began explaining, going into significant detail, “Second, the interior of each vessel is subdivided by bulkheads which include built-in fighting positions. They’re designed to stop escaped slaves from reaching the bridge, but for us, they can work as defences against a boarding action if needed. Third, and finally, each vessel is equipped with a slave circuit system enabling external master control should the vessel actually be taken over. Even if a ship were taken by escaped slaves, the master circuit in the fleet could override any control input aboard and remotely sail the ship back to port or other more advantageous circumstances for recapture.”
Aesilla paused to allow the colonel to take in the information dump before continuing, “The third feature is the one I’m banking on. While most vessels of this particular class have a circuit aboard that is subordinate to a master circuit, this vessel possesses a master circuit. Further, I have removed the receiver from the ship. Simply put, if the slavers try to employ their standard operating procedure and slave the vessel to a master circuit, they won’t be able to do it. Conversely, we’ll know what frequency they operate on and have a master circuit to lock them down with.”
Aesilla, now appearing a bit short of breath after the long-winded explanation, looks up from the hologram to meet the colonel’s eyes, “Is this making more sense now?”
“Well, it's a good thing that everyone carries a small arm with them of some sort then. A fact any and all would know if they see the GCS in front of the name, along with the flag on our hull. Either way, we should be prepared to fend off and perform the basic defend and assault strategies in this case.” Jack replied soundly as he tapped his sabre with his gloved hand.
Though it was still rather odd to know that there had been so many systems made to prevent even the slightest sort of escape attempt. Looking over and down at Aesilla now though, he had to wonder just what role she held before she became the Captain of the Morgana. Was she a slaver? Or was she herself a slave? Two questions he’d want to learn sometime down the line, but for now, he thought it best to save such questions for when they were closer or if she herself felt it necessary to tell him. He just hoped she wasn’t the slaver…
Turning now back towards the ship layout, he quickly took note of all the bulkheads that would provide his soldiers with the advantage. Thankfully, the Captain had made it easy with her mini briefing. Reaching out he tapped the ship before a small button came up, tapping it twice, the entire command structure of the 7th would have all the intel they would need to form a proper defence should they come under attack.
“Well, I suppose that means we’re more or less ready for whatever’s going to hit us when we’re in neutral space then?” He observed, his left hand resting against the hilt of his blade.
“We’re more than ready, Colonel”, replied the helmsman for his captain, making clear that the situation was personal not just for the captain herself, “We’ve been there before.”
Aesilla quietly swivelled the command chair back to the front, her mood now brooding and vengeful.
“Thank you, PO.” Jack replied quickly to the Petty Officer at the helm as he watched the command chair spin around to the front once more.
It didn’t take a genius to know he was no longer wanted or needed on the bridge at the moment, more so given the shift in the Captain’s mood.
“Well, while the crew, Marines, and my own soldiers enjoy their mini shore leave, I’ll be in my bunk doing paperwork. If you need me, feel free to call me.” And with that, Jack tapped the chair and took his leave, his sword jingling lightly against his hip the only other sound to follow before the thick steel door slid shut behind him.
Several hours following the discussion that had taken place on the bridge of the Fata Morgana, Aesilla was now watching another hologram, this time of the Fata Morgana itself, and the repair facility that was doing its work putting the damaged section of the ship back together. Multiple arms reached out from the gantry that had been pulled alongside the vessel, each of them now precisely inserted into the uncovered compartments of the Fata Morgana.
One arm was pumping out a rubberized compound into a series of layers that would form a new self-sealing fuel tank. A second arm was slowly pouring white-hot liquid metal into position for the construction of a new bulkhead, fed partly by the remains of the old that were being chewed up and melted into raw materials for use. A third arm, the most complex of them, was now laying fresh wiring in place where the previous iteration had burned up and melted in the fire the ship had suffered.
Meanwhile, numerous little robotic scrubbers scampered across the deck plating and walls of the compartments that had burned, rapidly removing the built-up soot and other contaminants from the affected plates. All of this fanfare, Aesilla watched quietly from the bridge via hologram, likening the assembly effecting repairs to a small multitude of insects scurrying about a hive in her mind.
Her thoughts drifted back to the earlier discussion that had taken place over the space through which the ship was slated to pass. While her irritation at the colonel’s poor choice of words had passed, she still found herself frustrated with the man. While his recommendation to stand the vessel at battle ready status for the duration of their transit would normally have been prudent and sound, the Fata Morgana was her ship. The colonel had questioned the wisdom of her planned course of action on her own bridge before her crew. While he was well within his rights to want to discuss the scenario, objections ought to have been voiced in private. Aesilla sighed, resigning herself to the fact that she was dealing with an infantryman instead of a sailor.
While the ship underwent its repairs, Jack sat behind his desk in his room. His green eyes scanning every word on the dataslate in front of him. If there was one thing he hated about being an officer the most, it was paperwork; too damn much of it. Even if it came with the job, it was still nothing he wanted to deal with, but it did help him drone out and focus his thoughts elsewhere during long quiet moments like these. The less he had to time to think about his own issues, the more healthy his mind was. Yet, like the Captain, his mind was still drawn back to their previous conversation, and now he was unsure if Aesilla was a woman of honour as he had first come to know her as, or someone of ill-nature. He hoped and prayed to the universe that his fears were just that, fears and not reality. More so for the sake of the Galactic Confederation… if it turned out that she was a former slaver, it would make the government seem just as bad as the Ascendancy, given how it would look to anyone seeking to turn the tables and use that little piece of info to fuel people’s support for the Ascendancy. Naturally, people would think the Confederation was just a hypocritical bunch of human and Xeno's looking to exploit them for their own benefit rather than helping people like they really were.
“Ugh! Fuck!” He cursed, whipping his metal coffee cup across the room, only for it to slam into the wall and clank against the rug laid out overtop the steel floor. “Why does this bother me so damn much?” Asking himself the question didn’t really help any, but it was all he could do given how little he knew, and how his entire command staff were on the station.
Leaning back in his comfy office chair, he found his eyes drifting up and then down once more until they landed on the picture of his friends and brother. He, his younger brother Paul, and his four childhood friends had all joined together; and all under the pressure of family. Each was an officer in a different unit and regiment, though two had since died, one of them being his close friend and ex, Emily Wulferam. A year back, she and her company had tried assaulting an Ascendancy position, only to be wiped out entirely… everyone killed in action. An event, he himself had witnessed. Picking up the picture he couldn’t help but smile fondly at it. Though as he looked once more at Emily, he frowned. Resting the picture frame back on the desk he pulled out his medal box and placed the medal he had won taking the position that had killed his former friend and lover. It was a stupid thing he did, and one he wasn’t expecting to come back alive from either when he did it. In a blind rage, he charged the enemy hill, killed the defenders with only his sword and pistol… Suicide was what he tried to commit to doing the action, but instead, he succeeded in taking the position and capturing well over a hundred POW’s, earning him the Galactic Confederacy’s highest honour.
“A piece of jewelry…” He sighed.
Jack hated medals, and he hated getting them as they always seem to land him with things he didn’t want or was even prepared for. Sure, it was nice to get recognized for doing something worth mentioning, but most of what he was awarded for was for doing stupid shit that may have saved lives… but were really just him trying to either get revenge, save his friends, or in the case of Emily- kill himself. Sighing once more, he closed his eyes, letting himself drift into slumber as the stress finally left him.
Aesilla’s hologram shifted once again, displaying a typical group of ships in a slaver convoy. The hologram then gained another ship, as if appearing from a jump. This ship was the Fata Morgana itself. Aesilla then began moving the vessels within the slaver convoy about, predicting their responses based on her knowledge of that faction and the vessels’ capabilities.
Four vessels, similar to the Morgana, broke away seemingly fleeing the new arrival, with a more heavily armed escort following along. The other two ships in the formation advanced on the Fata Morgana’s position from a distance. At that point, rings indicating some form of transmission began to emanate from these vessels, having closed with the likewise advancing hologram of the Fata Morgana.
Aesilla then keyed a few buttons on the holographic display module and the Fata Morgana replied to the two slaver ship holograms in kind, but when they were reached by the rings from their adversary, the coloured placeholder beneath the vessels changed colour to match the Fata Morgana.
With several more keystrokes, Aesilla turned the two vessels that had advanced on hers around, and in concert with the Fata Morgana, advanced on the remaining armed vessel and the unarmed transports. Aesilla then sighed heavily, knowing the outcome. Keying up a few new commands, the remaining armed vessel disappeared to warp, while the four transports simultaneously exploded in a shower of blue particles before vanishing themselves.
“Well, that’s a starting point.”, Aesilla declared to herself before a member of the bridge crew chimed in with,
“Why not play dead?”
Aesilla cocked her head sideways slightly before resetting the simulation.
“Why not indeed…….”
Like before, the two armed slaver vessels approached and emitted their rings.
This time, however, the hangar doors opened, disgorging the vessel’s fighter complement as the Fata Morgana remained in its position as if affected by their transmission. As the fighters swarmed around the two closest vessels, an idea suddenly struck Aesilla and she reset the simulation once again.
As before, the two enemy vessels approached and transmitted, and the Fata Morgana remained motionless. This time, however, the fighters made a beeline straight for the escort near the transports.
Aesilla paused for several moments, considering a likely response from the slavers.
Having reached the conclusion of her strategic analysis, she could see no reason for the slavers to believe that they were in a position of disadvantage. The slavers’ nearest two vessels moved to engage in a boarding action, while the third interposed itself between the oncoming fighters and the transports, missiles streaking from it toward them.
Suddenly, the holographic Fata Morgana emitted a series of rings much like the two slaver vessels had, but this time a line reached from the Fata Morgana to its fighters, which also emitted smaller versions of those same rings, in close proximity to each of the vessels in their vicinity.
All of the slavers’ vessels simultaneously had their coloured bases change to match the Fata Morgana, and a phrase appeared across the holographic battlefield as if a victory message.
The message read: Protocol Omega
“Well, that’ll do.”, Aesilla said to herself before speaking louder for others to hear, “XO has the conn. If I’m needed I’ll be in my quarters.”
Aesilla then casually walks through the sliding doors off the bridge, a lack of rest evident in her eyes. By morning they would be underway, and Aesilla intended to be ready.
--
A loud beeping noise could be heard ringing in Jack’s ears. Blinking awake, Jack found himself in his chair still, his arms draped over the armrests. Turning to look around for the source of the annoying beeping, he found it was his alarm, letting him know that the ship was about to cast off soon. Quickly pushing himself up and to his feet, the young officer quickly grabbed his sabre and attached it to his belt, before he went to his mirror and adjusted his uniform so that it was presentable. Once that was all done, he was quick to march out of his room and back towards the bridge.
As the doors slid open ahead of the colonel, the command chair rotated slightly, allowing Aesilla to observe Jack’s entry. As she noted the colonel’s somewhat stiff gait, her gaze was drawn upward.
“Bad hair day under that cap?”, she asked casually, turning to the holographic display and activating it,
“I’ve prepared a number of simulations based on likely hostile responses to this vessel in the sector we’ll be entering. I hope we can avoid having to actually fight, but given the history of this ship I wouldn’t bet on that outcome.”
“Huh?” Jack uttered confused for a moment as he stepped into the bridge. “No, my hair’s fine, hard to get bed head when you didn’t sleep in your bed.” Following up, he took his cap off showing his usual short cut hair, styled to be a bit like an undercut in some aspects.
As he walked over to his usual place in the bridge -the coffee table- he just nodded in response to her simulator based outcome. “I’ll leave it to you, Captain. I’m not well versed in the art of naval combat, nor am I going to even assume or suggest anything that might hinder this ship. All I can do is make insights in how to defend the ship from boarding parties, and how best to counter-attack.” He replied cooly, the sleep still slightly affecting him before he pulled began to make some coffee; even though he knew it’d taste like shit.
“There are several simulations that include boarding actions, and likely points of entry based on the action outside.”, Aesilla explained, “The details of such actions are absent; That would be your area of expertise. The data is available for your use if you want to plan ahead some.”
Aesilla then noticed what Jack was up to and decided that he had a good idea.
“Mind making a mug for me too, colonel?”, She called out despite not looking at all like she needed to wake up further.
While listening to her give him the rundown on how the simulation would more than likely involve a boarding action, he took a swig of his freshly brewed coffee, only for him to feel like spitting it out. Turning to face Aesilla, he tried to give a calm look, but the bitter taste of the coffee really made it hard to make anything other than a look of disgust.
“Have to remember to buy some real coffee grinds the next time we’re out.” He noted to himself before saying anything more. “As for any strategies related to boarding actions, I well imagine you already know what I have in mind. Given what you had told me yesterday, we’ll use the defensive positions you highlighted in your briefing when it comes to defending. In regards to a counter attack… That would require the Marines to be geared up. I know slaver gear is essentially weak as hell, but a ballistic round still kills no matter what it’s fired from.” As he made his reply he filled another cup with the same thick black coffee that was in his own, before walking over and handing her the cup.
“Thanks.”, Aesilla replies gratefully, before continuing the colonel’s train of thought, “I’m more concerned with what ideas you might have to mitigate their best defence; The fighting positions built into the bulkheads. Anything come to mind?”
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“Welcome.” He replied warmly before taking a seat in a nearby empty seat. “One… one strategy comes to mind.” Jack continued. “Same strategy that I used that got me promoted to Major and this piece of metal here.” Pointing to the medal valour medal for a moment, before resting his left hand back on the hilt of his sabre, his right holding his own cup of coffee. “I can’t tell you the strategy in full detail, but I can assure you it will succeed, and that won't put anyone’s life at risk… *cough*save my own*cough*.” Coughing the last bit, the militiaman cleared his throat quickly before continuing. “All I’ll need is your assurance that the enemy won’t be able to retaliate with their exterior weapons.”
“You’re planning to break in somewhere on the hull?”, Aesilla inquired, taking a long swig from her mug, “Are you perhaps hoping to follow in the hole made by one of the Fata Morgana’s shells?”
“Something of the sort, yes. Though, in that case, I’ll be going in with a platoon of Marines at my back. The entry will require such, but my plan to take the ship will require just a few things and luck.” The Colonel replied before taking a sip of his coffee.
“That sounds like the sort of shenanigans I’m familiar with.”, Aesilla notes of the colonel’s plan, “Only you and your soldiers tend to be better equipped, well, armoured anyway.”
Aesilla takes another gulp from the mug, seemingly savouring the flavour with a barely audible satisfied exhalation.
“Yes, well, that’s to be expected given how we’re usually in the front lines while the Marines often sit with the crew during planetary assaults… just how it is. Not like the Marines of old.” Jack added.
“The Marines of Old?”, Aesilla inquired, now interested in what the origins of the Confederates’ unit was, “They weren’t always the final goalkeepers in a boarding action?”
“Not really, during the start of the war, the Marines were often at the front with the rest of the Army. It wasn’t until more planets and people started joining that such a thing stopped. Eventually, the Marines were needed for ship to ship combat rather than planetary. Essentially, militia units like mine took up their role on the ground and we got the armour they were supposed to get.” The Colonel answered softly, looking into the mug of his cup as if remembering something.
“You make it sound like the marines on board aren’t as well equipped, or as hardened anymore.”, Aesilla noted, wondering to herself why the colonel’s tone had changed, “I suppose they have specialized training regular units lack then?”
As the two officers converse, a dull clunk could be heard, followed by the engineering station’s crew member reporting that the vessel was now taking fuel prior to its departure.
Aesilla’s eyes dart toward the hull in the direction of the noise before quickly settling back on her conversational partner as she swallows yet another mouthful of the coffee in her mug.
Shrugging, Jack took another sip of his coffee. “I’m not saying there aren’t many veteran Marines, but most of the combat-ready troops were relocated to the regular army to help shore up Infantry and armoured units. In truth, you’d more than likely spot more than a few former Marines in Reg Forces, with a few former Senior NCO’s taking commisions in the Marines like my Regiment’s Major, Warren there. He’s a former Marine Gunny who was relocated to the Regular’s but when offered a commision with the militia forces he took that instead.” Pausing a moment he grinned, “Better pay.”
Aesilla couldn’t help but respond with a small smile at the thought of switching to a militia unit being a source of better pay but was simultaneously confused by just why the colonel would bring marines with him instead of his own troops if the veteran soldiers had mostly been replaced by those less experienced.
“So,....... if all the baddest marines are in other units now, why marines instead of more battle-hardened troops?”, Aesilla pressed, “It almost feels like you’re trying to bring along cannon fodder.”
“Not cannon fodder, training. Think about it? When a ship gets into combat they’re often quick to start boarding actions, you and me both know this to be true given how the Ascendancy thinks. But, given the basic training every Marine receives back at their homeworld before deployment, they know how to fight aboard a ship than any Ascendancy soldier or sailor ever can. And once they gain valuable fighting experience with the Marines, they’re seen as having completed their training and are then promoted and offered other duties, positions, and commisions based on their former experience and or trade. Most times, you’ll have them take up officer commissions within the Militia units since you get more money, and a higher chance to see a new world and explore it rather than just sit in a ship that waits up in space” He replied soundly, downing the rest of his coffee, forcing him to stick his tongue out in disgust. “Ugh.. this shit’s terrible…”
“That seems like an awfully short pathway to command authority.”, Aesilla noted with a look of slight consternation, then one of bewilderment as the colonel makes a face she had never seen before, and looks down at the remaining liquid in her mug before commenting, “Maybe you just got a bad mugful? Mine seems perfectly fine.”
Aesilla then finishes the rest of her own coffee, again seeming to thoroughly enjoy the flavour, as the engineering station reports that fueling is now complete and that the ship is ready for launch.
“Well, I guess that’s our cue to cast off.”, Aesilla states matter of factly, thereafter ordering the vessel out of port.
“I suppose, but it seems to work out for the best. Having combat veteran’s leading hardened men and women into battle is better than an inexperienced college kid. Best to start them off at the Second lieutenant and have them work their way up while the combat veterans have a higher chance for promotion.” Jack replied before the report on the fuel came up, forcing him to relax a little more in his seat.
“I’m ready whenever you are… though, all I do here is sit until something comes up for me to do.” Jack noted.
“If you’re looking for something to break the boredom, I’m sure any number of department heads on the ship would be happy to have you pitch in.”, Aesilla playfully cracks as the vessel makes the jump to warp.
“I’ve got paperwork that more or less cures that issue.”
--------
The Fata Morgana dropped back out of warp at the extreme limits of a new system. This system consisted of three planets, one standard terrestrial, one mostly terraformed, and a third which was only in the beginning stages of terraforming. Two gas giants also orbit the central star, with an asteroid belt ringing the system between the solid celestial bodies and those of gas.
From a distance, the inhabited planets appeared little more than spots of light in the black void of space. The system’s gas giants, on the other hand, loomed much larger. From the Fata Morgana’s position, they appeared of identical size, an illusion, one being much larger than the other. Around the larger of the two, a thick metallic ring encircled the ball of gas as if a belt.
All throughout the system, a steady stream of traffic to and from each point in space orbiting the central sun flowed like the lifeblood of a living creature. Vessels of all varieties, going about their business, shining in the bright light of the system’s star like the scales of a gargantuan snake.
Among the myriad vessels before the Fata Morgana, several similar ships transited into the system. Though they lacked the armour or armament, they were instantly recognizable for what they were. Alongside them travelled a pair of escort ships, armed with turrets similar to the Fata Morgana’s own, though one greater in number. Further, into the system, a regular patrol could be observed; A surplus ascendancy destroyer, no doubt purchased by the slavers with ill-gotten funds, and a trio of lesser picket ships.
“Huh… they actually came.” Jack whistled in mock surprise, as he came walking into the bridge along with Warren and the newly promoted Captain of the 1st Company, Yuki Kobayashi.
“Relax, Colonel,”, Aesilla reassured the new arrivals, “We’re not close enough, or doing anything suspicious enough to have been noticed yet.”
Aesilla turns to the helmsman and issues a simple order: “Match speed to the majority of traffic and keep something between us and the system’s authorities at all times until further notice.”
She then turned back to Jack before speaking again.
“We’re scheduled to pick up a supply of parts for our fighter craft at the industrial complex in this system.”, Aesilla explains, “Unfortunately, neither I nor this ship, can arrive in port here without causing a stir. I’m hoping we can use the troop transports to pick up what we need and return with the cargo to the ship. Of course, that will require somebody to go aboard the station to collect the order and I would very much prefer it be someone, or a group, who can fight their way back out if something goes wrong.”
Looking at the Captain now, Jack had to question why it was a bad thing if anyone of her own crew went to pick up the order they had made. Shaking the unease away, however, he turned to look at Bull who gave a worried expression.
“Why’re you looking at me?”
With a grin, Jack replied, “Learning experience.”
With a frown, Warren gave him the middle finger when everyone’s attention was turned away. “Fuck you too buddy.”
“Heh. Think of it as payback Major.” Jack replied with a sly grin before turning Yuki, “As for you Captain, you’ll be going with him. I want you and a platoon of your best soldiers to accompany him to the pickup location. Chances are it’ll be another Triara like engagement.”
The young Asian descent captain gave a small nod before saluting. “Sir.” She followed up quickly before about facing and heading out of the bridge.
“Huh… she’s quite the professional one, isn’t she?” Jack observed aloud.
Warren shrugged. “She’s always been that way.”
“Right, well, I suppose you and your escort should arm up. Take your standard gear, and make sure to keep your blade handy… I don’t trust anyone in this system to hold up their deal of things or let us pass without trouble.” Turning to look at Aesilla, “More so if they have some outstanding issues with certain individuals serving with us.”
As he finished, Bull snapped a salute before smiling. “Do your best not to get attacked while I’m away.”
Frowning Jack waved his friend and 2iC away. “Yeah, yeah, just get out of here.”
Turning back to the Captain, he gave her a small nod of acknowledgement. “So, what’re we expecting while we’re here?”
“As you’ve surmised, nobody is to be trusted.”, Aesilla confirmed, “In this system, anyone could as quickly become merchandise as customer. Show weakness and you’ll run into trouble. Show strength, and you’ll generally get across the message that you’re not to be fucked with. Finally...... always have an escape plan. Don’t get caught in a corner. No matter how much firepower you have, a cornered target won’t scare off anyone.”
Aesilla paused for a moment before remembering something.
“You should probably leave off any identifying markings you can.”, Aesilla cautioned, “If something pops off, plausible deniability is our collective friend.”
“Can’t do that last part sadly. We’re a uniformed army… the only thing that ensures our safety as per our agreement with the ones who run this system. So long as there’s a GCW flag or marking on our uniforms we should be safe… unless we’re with someone who has bad blood with them.” He replied looking at Aesilla.
“You are.”
Aesilla’s answer was simple and to the point. No benefit in hiding it, only risk.
“Then we seek diplomatic intervention. Even if you and they have bad blood we will still bring to light the trade and treaties we have with these organizations that allow them to fuel this system… other than slavery that is. Though… I’m sure we’ll more than likely go to war with this system in the near future given how the GSW government feels about slavery.” His reply was quick and professional, he was still a little out of it, having had to go through so much paperwork, his tone had started to sound like someone of his rank should; something he disliked somewhat.
“Any diplomatic solution would involve turning me over to them.”, Aesilla answered coldly.
The Colonel shook his head. “Wouldn’t happen. We’d more than likely offer them some sort of trade deal or give them some sort of space. Depends on how it all goes. Though… If you’re wanted due to war crimes… well… then we’d have to given how that’s law for both sides, but we don’t know your side of the story to really use you for any sort of diplomatic solution. Hell, not even the GSW has anything on your past save you being a merchant slash smuggler before they recruited you.”
“It’s hard for war crimes to be involved without being a soldier.”, Aesilla answered, “No, they want me in their custody because I took control of the ship they tried to confine me aboard, and subsequently used its slave circuits to self-destruct their largest combat vessel, coincidentally bearing the head honcho running the slavers’ guild itself.”
Raising a brow in surprise, Jack found himself a little surprised and at the same time relieved that Aesilla was not a slaver… but rather an escaped slave showed true strength in his eyes given what she more than likely went through during her enslavement. But upon her giving him the rundown of her and her crew’s history, he now felt a little bit unsure about things. The Confederacy wouldn’t give ANY of its personnel to the guilds and gangs that ran this system, and nor would they want to start any sort of conflict given how most of the active fleets and armies were busy fighting the Ascendancy. Sighing lightly the militia Colonel sat in his usual chair, resting his head in the palm of his hand while the elbow rested on the desk.
“Well… that will make things a fair bit more complicated, but I can assure you that our government wouldn’t give any of its officers, soldiers, pilots, or sailors to these thugs. If we’re able we’ll seek to provide some sort of reimbursement to make up for their losses.” He said calmly, trying to reassure the Captain.
“They’re not interested, colonel.”, Aesilla countered with mild irritation, “In the entire history of their organization, they had never lost a shipment of slaves before. When I took control of their ship and blew up the pursuit, they lost multiple vessels at once and simultaneously lost a myriad number of contracts that would have required a consolidated, charismatic leader and negotiator to recover. Taking control of the ship I did, and destroying the pursuers I did, caused the damage that will last decades. Next, to that, there’s no offer that the GCW can make that will interest them because getting their hands on me will do more for their prosperity by far.”
“Oh? How would getting you be far more valuable than having the GCW as a trade partner in all things not associated to their slave trade?” Asking, he began to rub the stubble on his face.
“The slaves are how they make most of their money, Colonel.”, Aesilla answered promptly, “Eliminating me and recovering my crew will restore a measure of faith in their ability to keep slaves confined and bring back lost business.”
“And yet, you noted before that they wouldn’t kill any potential slaves, more so ones with talent. So… hmm… well, all I can do in this case is promise you what little protection I can give. I won’t let them have you OR your crew. You have my word on that… and believe me, they’ll not want to make an enemy out of the Confederacy.” He promised, knowing full well it would more than likely do little to reassure Aesilla, much less her crew.
It was the only thing he could do, however, and a promise he would seek to keep no matter what it might cost him; be it a limb or another scar… or even his life for that matter. All that mattered were those he was charged to protect and command. So long as he was around, he would protect Aesilla. Though he knew she would need little of that given her ability scores during the Basic Military and Officer training the Confederacy provided her. Either way, he would do what he could to ensure the freedom and rights of the Fata Morgana’s crew, more so since they were officially recognized as citizens of the GCW, and as such afforded the same assurances as anyone else within the new nation.
“Yes, I’m sure you wouldn’t let them take this ship without a fight.”, Aesilla responded with a slightly patronizing look, “But going the diplomatic route pretty much precludes this vessel being able to do anything in this system. If they know we’re here, they’ll actively search for us with everything they have, and if they know where we’ll be, they’ll send everything they have to greet us.”
Jack was getting a little annoyed now at how little faith the Captain had, but did his best to dismiss his annoyance. “Well, if worse comes to worse, the Confederacy will declare war on this system. Despite its strong defences, I doubt this system would last a week against a Battle Group. Hell, I bet even my Regiment would be able to take a few planets with just the support of the Morgana given the level of gear and standards of this system’s thugs.”
Aesilla stood motionless and silent as the grave for several moments before speaking, her tone both shocked and inspired,
“Wait,..............the fuck did you just say?”
“What? Just said we’d more than likely be able to take a few planets before we’d need support from a battle group?” Jack replied with a raised brow
“Colonel, there are only two relevant military targets in this system.”, Aesilla elucidated, “The industrial complex, which produces armed vessels, and the third planet, which houses the fighting strength of the slavers’ guild. Further, the whole system is being controlled tightly by the slavers’ guild through either fear or technology. If we take their military facilities and their production centre, we simultaneously break both means of control.”
“Well, I suppose it’s possible to do… hmm… well… this might get me in trouble just suggesting this plan, but we could capture it right now under the guise of ‘self-defense’. Use the pick up as a means of conducting a discrete invasion. Would take a mere two hours at most to take the harbour and another ten to take the factory itself. Took us two whole days to take the Ascendancy’s industry world in the outer rim during the first year, and they had a proper military.” He explained softly, leaning back in his chair.
“Given the fact that they’ll recognize the vessel on sight, I don’t think we’ll need a guise to claim self-defence.”, Aesilla reminded the colonel, “They will start shit with us. All we need to do is come up with a plan that controls where and when they engage us so that we’re in a position to deliver your troops to the required drop points.”
Aesilla turns briefly to the helmsman, directing him to alter course to a point deeper into the asteroid field so as to conceal the vessel while they prepare their plan.
“Further, if we release the slaves in this system from the guild’s control it will limit their ability to maneuver and respond to us, not to mention the hell they’ll be facing trying to combat the riots that will ensue.”, Aesilla stopped for a bit to ponder, “The trick will be timing the release of the slaves so as to minimize casualties among them. Ideally, we want the enemy focused on us when they suddenly find themselves overrun by hordes of newly freed and angry beings.”
Scanning the Captain for a moment with his emerald green eyes, the militia commander could see the sheer joy in plotting such an ambitious plan. “Well, for starters, we can use the pick up as a means to quickly take control of the factory, and turn that harbour into our FOB to launch further attacks from. Once that’s all set up we’ll be able to launch a number of assaults on the guild’s main buildings, removing any and all defences on the first planet. Once that’s secure, we’ll send out a request for support, which should be received by the Confederate Battle Group patrolling the demilitarized zone. So long as we control their ability to produce or repair anything, we’ll have the upper hand.” Pausing a moment to stand now, he walked over towards the massive viewport. “First and foremost though, we’ll need to gather the support of the slaves on the other worlds… having them take up arms should prove to make things a fair bit easier. Plus, if we offer them citizenship within the GCW, chances are they’ll be more motivated to fight… I hope.”
“These people have murderous intent toward their captors, colonel.”, Aesilla assured Jack with a deadly cold tone, “All it will take is handing them a weapon, and showing them that they’ve got a fighting chance.”
Aesilla looks around the bridge, meeting the gazes of all the crew members who were now mostly staring in her general direction.
“I think………. We should land on the second planet.”, Aesilla ventured, “Do a low, slow pass over several of the communities trapped on the surface, then set down somewhere concealed but accessible to those with local knowledge.”
The communications officer then steps over to the holographic display, bringing up a specific location.
“The Arch should be big enough to hide a ship this size, and the high mineral content in the rock there will disrupt any attempts to scan through it.”, She explained concisely, “On the other hand, it can be accessed on foot if somebody knows the path along the cliff faces. Who knows, there might even be a few people camped there to get away from supervision.”
“This could work.”, Aesilla commented, “Once we’re landed, we can make contact with the locals and spread the word of our presence. The only slavers’ guild ship to ever be captured is something of a legend, as I understand it.”
Nodding in agreement, the militia Colonel pushed himself up and off of his chair, before making his way towards the exit. “Sounds good. Once we’re down, I’ll start getting the Seventh to secure the area around the Morgana. When everything's been readied I’ll task an escort for whoever you’re going to send to meet with the local population.” He started, turning to face the Captain, before the metal doors slid open, a pocket of cool recycled air hitting his skin. “Just because they’re oppressed doesn’t mean they’ll help us, or keep quiet. Best to be ready for anything.” Jack finished before stepping out into the corridor.
“He doesn’t get it.”, commented the communications officer, shaking her head.
Aesilla simply nodded in agreement, making a mental note to explain to the colonel later that there was nothing more dangerous for a slave than being known as a rat, and proceeded to direct the helmsman to bring the vessel in for the planned low pass before landing. The LZ would be tricky given the surrounding terrain, and anyone camped nearby would only complicate things, but her crew had done far wilder things than maneuver around stationary terrain.
While the ship was making its approach to land, Jack had quickly found his way to the mess where most of his soldiers were lazing about -enjoying what little free time they had- as well as where his two senior commanders were also located. Stopping at the entryway, he scanned the room, quickly spotting Warren, and Knight who were stuck in a heated argument over which ship was the strongest in the Confederate Navy.
Shaking his head, he walked in, giving nods of acknowledgement to anyone who saluted before pulling a seat out and joining the two officers. “I think our Captain believes everything will be all roses and sunshine upon our arrival.”
Warren looked over towards his friend and commander before giving a grin, “Afternoon to you too bro.”
Jack mentally facepalmed at the lack of his own edict before shaking his head and laughing. “Heh, yeah, sorry… just mind caught up in the clouds again I suppose.”
Bull waved his hand, “It’s fine, but why the critical viewpoint there?”
Shrugging the young commander scanned the room to make sure there were none of her crew around. “Just how she’s treating this whole thing. We’re about to liberate a system that was formally neutral in this war, and somehow… I feel as though our Naval opposite is in the belief that no one would report our position be them, slave or citizen.”
“Navy issues sir… But… I do have to side with her to some extent.” Knight interjected.
“Oh?”
“Mhm, I mean, given what we know about her and her crew, they seem to know this system like the back of their hands.” Pausing, Knight took a sip from her paper cup. “I think we should give them the benefit of the doubt.”
Nodding, Jack smiled. “Noted Captain, though… I still believe it’s best to stay on guard. Remember what happened during the first year of the war. We too thought many citizens would accept and hide our positions… more so since we were basically giving them everything, yet they still betrayed us.”
The two other officers nodded in agreement.
“But! I will say this… we’ll let her and the Fata Morgana’s crew take the lead for this one. What they say, we do. They know this place better than we do, and most more than likely know some of the people living in this hellhole.”
“Agreed.” Both agreed in unison
“Now… is there any real coffee left? Shit on the bridge is basically sludge.”
Several hours later, the crew of the Fata Morgana had finally managed to identify a window of opportunity in the slavers’ patrols of the system to slip out of traffic and down to the planet’s surface. Aesilla now entered the ship’s conference room, beginning process of discussing the planned away mission.
Jack sat silently looking over the dataslate of the mission, before looking up at the Captain, “Captain.” He greeted with a small smile and nod.
Warren, Knight, and the rest of the 7th’s officers and Senior NCO’s all greeted the Captain, standing at attention upon her entry.
“As you were.”, Aesilla answered casually, taking her seat, “This is going to be a fairly simple mission, as far as stealth operations go,” she explained, “Your objective is to get a small contingent of this ship’s crew in contact with the local population’s de-facto leadership undetected. Hostile presence is likely to be relatively poorly trained, and initially light, but will increase exponentially with time. The longer this takes, the harrier it gets. That said, the three crew members you’ll be escorting are no strangers to skulking about or getting violent as the need arises. The three you’ll be escorting are Communications Officer Cira Firetongue, Tuura, our loadmaster, and Victor Virn, our chief engineer. Cira is a polyglot, capable of translating the various languages we will no doubt encounter, as well as a previous resident here. Tuuraa, on the other hand, is an expert negotiator with a bent for record keeping, mathematics, and as you would expect for one so, I believe the colonel would describe her as elephantine, making big, heavy, things move, and finally our chief engineer Victor Virn, who, aside from his obvious technical expertise, is able to directly interface with computerized systems by dint of his cybernetics, and use those same cybernetics to cause serious damage should such be necessary. Return to the ship is to occur only in the event of successful contact, unsuccessful contact, or SNAFU. Any questions before we continue?”
Aesilla’s long-winded introduction of her three crew members to what was probably the largest number of the seventh’s officers that they had direct contact with to date ended with a push of the holographic displays buttons, bringing up a map of the surrounding area.
Jack nodded his approval of the experienced crew being sent by the Morgana, so, in turn, he knew he’d have to send his best to ensure that everything would go well. Scanning the room, he began to mentally make note of everyone’s strengths and weaknesses.
“Sergeant Major Andre Richardson and his second platoon of first company will act as escorts for your crew. They’re highly skilled and well trained… Richardson and his soldiers have fought with the Seventh since the start of the war.” Jack announced, before motioning towards the bald-headed dark-skinned man who paused in shock, looking at everyone now looking at him.
“Aw fuck…” Andre cursed silently to himself before he walked up. “Sir, Ma’am.” He quickly greeted as he stood at attention.
Walking to the table as Jack waved him at ease, he reached for the table’s holo control’s before he brought up his wrist and downloaded all the files provided by the ship’s logs, which would more or less answer any of the questions that might be had, such as town and city names, population numbers, though the only question that wouldn’t be answered or wasn’t known was…. Who controlled the world?
“If I might… I’m curious, which of the five main groups controls this world Ma’am? From what the files say, or rather don’t say is who controls what here. All I’m seeing is who’s better armed and more wealthy, yet nothing on who controls what.” Andre asked as he scrolled through the files provided by the ship.
“That’s because leadership in this system changes nearly constantly.”, Aesilla answered, “One faction trades a new space lane for this, another trades coordinates to an undiscovered planet for that, it’s honestly a real mess. Previously the guild had a clear leader, but nobody has since stepped in to fill that role. There might not be anybody with enough widespread support to take that position. Whatever the case, there are two points of note. First, we can’t simply cut off the head of the snake to sow confusion and chaos. Second, the lack of leadership causes confusion and chaos. A given outpost could be working for one faction on one day, and be transferred into the hands of another the next. It can sometimes be difficult for the slavers here to figure out who they answer to in a given situation or location.”
Andre nodded, rubbing his bald head in thought. “Rog… so, we should be able to get our people in and out before they even know we’re there.”
The young blonde Colonel nodded, “Good, the confusion should give you guys enough time to set up a real meeting.”
“Agreed.” Warren added, “But, I’m still a little nervous about the enemy outpost here.” Pointing to the map now on the table, “I’d like permission to take this point while our people are in the villages and towns. If we have this, that should effectively cut off any form of communication with the rest of the group’s garrison on the world.”
Knight leaned back in her chair, crossing her arms over her chest, “I’m not so sure Major. I think it’d be best if we just set up overwatch to keep an eye on the outpost. If communication is cut… chances are they might panic and think something’s up. For now, I think it's best to have teams of snipers and Pathfinders spread out and serve as cover for Andre and his platoon.”
The Colonel remained silent, letting all his officers make their suggestions, his mind already beginning to think how each plan would play out.
“I can lead the teams in that case Captain.” Came Yuki Kobayashi whose brown eyes were still locked on the map.
“Oh?”
“I think I can make good use of the terrain, and I want to see what these groups have to offer in terms of resistance.” Turning now to the Colonel, “Plus, if the worst should happen, it’d be nice to have some more intel on these people.”
“Agreed… you’ve got command Captain. Choose your best, and head out when you’re ready.” Jack agreed.
“Thank you Sir.”
Turning back to Aesilla, the blonde nodded for her to continue if she had anything further to add, a small smile across his face.
“Bear in mind that they’re in the process of reporting our presence on the planet as we speak.”, Aesilla cautioned, “By the time you near your objective, they’ll know you’re out there somewhere. Unless there are any further questions, this briefing is dismissed.”
And with that, everyone stood up, everyone waiting until the main commanders left, before they too all shuffled out, leaving an empty room and a nervous feeling...