《Cries of the Disillusioned》 Book 1: Act 1: Chapter 1: Part I ¡°You¡¯ve been on this type of ship before, right?¡± Agozi asked Kaz as they trekked down the corridor. ¡°Yes, a few years ago.¡± Agozi looked at him, whiskers fluttering with excitement. ¡°Would you like to know what¡¯s new?¡± ¡°May as well.¡± Kaz saw starships as nothing more than fancy space cabs, a view Agozi got, but it didn''t do a thing to dull her excitement. ¡°¡­and the engines have now been modified with these fancy anti-matter boosters that improve efficiency and stuff. Not everyone agrees if they¡¯re actually as effective as they¡¯re hyped out to be, but hey, it sounds impressive!¡± It wasn¡¯t long before Kaz began looking for reasons to change the topic. ¡°As you seem to be well-versed in the ship''s schematics, do you know where the cantina is located?¡± The question bemused Agozi, who let out a sigh before uttering something too faint for him to hear. ¡°Yea, I know where it is,¡± she replied, slightly peeved. ¡°It¡¯s in the medical bay.¡± Kaz looked at her, whiskers jerking. ¡°The medical bays?¡± The bafflement in his voice had been quite apparent. ¡°Why there?¡± ¡°Oh, you know, the doctors figured they might as well be prepared in case you decide to drink yourself into oblivion.¡± Agozi¡¯s whiskers fluttered in amusement. ¡°Wouldn¡¯t want to lose the captain to alcohol poisoning during a critical mission moment.¡± Kaz gave her a deadpan look. ¡°We should report to the bridge,¡± he said eventually. ***** The sliding door opened. Kaz and Agozi entered the bridge where Bridge-Commander Teflar was waiting for them. They exchanged traditional Mevik greetings. ¡°I am Bridge-Commander Teflar, assigned to provide assistance to the both of you as per the mission parameters.¡± ¡°I¡¯m Kaz, and this is my Lieutenant,¡± he replied. ¡°Has the council assigned us a mission yet?¡± ¡°Our mission parameters were updated this morning,¡± Teflar replied. ¡°We are to survey systems near the eastern outskirts.¡± Agozi made no secret of her disappointment. ¡°Oh great, more recon work,¡± she lamented. ¡°I was hoping for something a bit more exciting, if I''m being honest.¡± ¡°I understand your disappointment, recon work can be tedious,¡± Kaz said. ¡°But it''s a good first mission for a new ship like the Minboa.¡± ¡°Yeah, I guess,¡± Agozi said, the tone of disappointment still dripping. ¡°Still a bit underwhelming, though.¡± Kaz directed his attention back to Teflar. ¡°How long until we can depart?¡± ¡°All systems are online.¡± Kaz saw no reason to waste time and reached for his communicator. He informed the crew they¡¯d be jumping into slipspace within the hour. Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. ¡°Anything else you need to share with us?¡± he asked Teflar. ¡°No, Captain.¡± ¡°Then we have other matters to attend.¡± ***** They exited the bridge via the sliding door and turned left down the nearest corridor. ¡°So, what''s the next step?¡± Agozi asked. ¡°I¡¯m going to the medical bays,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°Why the medical bays?¡± ¡°There¡¯s an individual with whom I must speak.¡± ¡°Who''s the mystery person?¡± ¡°Doctor Zelana is a crew member of special note,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°She¡¯s a Xeno-Psychiatrist recently assigned to the Medical Division.¡± Agozi looked at him. ¡°We¡¯ve got a Xeno-Psychiatrist on this ship?¡± she asked, genuinely surprised. ¡°I thought the Langa were the ones managing the Psychiatric Corps?¡± ¡°You are correct.¡± ¡°So what race is Zelana from?¡± ¡°Doctor Zelana Song is a Langa.¡± Agozi abruptly halted in the middle of the corridor, and Kaz responded in kind. ¡°She¡¯s Langa?¡± The astonishment in her voice had been unmistakable. ¡°Correct.¡± ¡°Serving on a Union reconnaissance ship?¡± ¡°Correct.¡± ¡°The same Langa that avoids Union service like it¡¯s a plague?¡± ¡°I wouldn¡¯t describe it in that manner.¡± A hint of irritation invaded Agozi¡¯s tone. ¡°But I would,¡± she countered, clearly peeved. ¡°The Langa are the only ones out of the Big Four who don''t volunteer for Union service. Everyone else does, even those stuck-up Pretenti.¡± Kaz was quick to remind Agozi of the reason before she could continue passing judgment. ¡°The Langa are not physically or mentally suited for service,¡± he said. ¡°We can¡¯t hold them to the same standards. It wouldn¡¯t be fair.¡± The Exploration Division put candidates through a brutal gauntlet of soul-sucking psych tests and grueling physical exams. They wouldn''t even look your way unless you could leap over these obstacles, making the chances of landing a job damn near impossible. Impossible for most. Agozi was not most. Agozi was Mevik. Both she and Kaz. The tough-as-wood catfolk made up a whopping seventy percent of the Union navy. The rest was mostly filled with the mole-like Prol and the ever-obedient bug-like Cisians. The Langa? Those twitchy bat-guys were about as common in the Union fleet as a watering hole in a bone-dry desert. ¡°Because strength matters when you''re sitting in an office all day, apparently,¡± Agozi said, whiskers jerking with sarcastic scorn. ¡°Physical abilities aren¡¯t the sole measure of strength.¡± ¡°That seems like a moot point when you¡¯re dealing with Langa,¡± she replied mockingly. ¡°It¡¯s true that the Langa can¡¯t match our mental fortitude,¡± Kaz admitted. ¡°Extended periods of separation from loved ones cause them severe anxiety. We often take our own racial abilities for granted when we shouldn¡¯t.¡± His tone turned serious. ¡°But don¡¯t forget, while most races serve in some capacity, they don¡¯t all serve the same way.¡± Agozi conceded the point. ¡°Still, I doubt they just posted a network ad and then got a ton of volunteers,¡± she said. ¡°They probably had to get creative.¡± ¡°You¡¯re partially correct,¡± Kaz said. ¡°Fleet Command thinks Langan cognitive talents are too valuable to ignore and has created a special program for those willing to enroll.¡± Agozi eyed him cynically. ¡°And how many remain willing after they¡¯ve actually enrolled?¡± Kaz¡¯s whiskers jerked momentarily. ¡°Not many,¡± he replied. ¡°Most only complete one or two missions before requesting reassignment. ¡°Figures,¡± Agozi said, whiskers fluttering with bemusement. They reached an intersection, turning right into another corridor. ¡°I guess it¡¯s just us and the Prol, then,¡± Agozi said eventually. ¡°There¡¯s also the Cisians.¡± ¡°If we can really call them crew members.¡± ¡°I¡¯d be more mindful of your language,¡± Kaz said, his tone now sterner. ¡°Statements like that can have unintended consequences on morale. We have an obligation to maintain a supportive environment for all crew members regardless of creed. It would reflect poorly on us if anyone heard you talk like that.¡± ¡°If they can even grasp what we''re saying.¡± ¡°They¡¯ve got translators.¡± ¡°Oh, I''m just dying to know how that works,¡± Agozi said, her tone only partially serious. ¡°I mean, it''s not like they''ve got mouths¡­¡± Slight disgust crept into her voice. ¡°Actually, I have no idea if they''ve even got any sensory organs at all.¡± ¡°The translators are integrated into their nervous system,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°I¡¯m not fully aware of the mechanics but it enables them to understand us.¡± They reached a second intersection. ¡°About this Zelana character,¡± Agozi said as they turned left down yet another corridor. ¡°We¡¯ve got more brave Langan souls on the vessel, or is she the only one?¡± ¡°Doctor Zelana is operating by herself.¡± ¡°So what''s her story? What¡¯s pushing her?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯m going in the first place.¡± ¡°Maybe she¡¯s just after the credits?¡± ¡°I highly doubt it,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°Such behavior would be uncharacteristic for a Langa. They¡¯re not the type.¡± Agozi¡¯s whiskers jerked. ¡°Implying that we are?¡± Kaz didn¡¯t respond right away. ¡°What I meant to convey is that acquisition of credits is an unlikely motivator in this instance,¡± Kaz replied, somewhat irate. ¡°Furthermore, there isn¡¯t such a thing as easy credits in the Exploration Division.¡± ¡°I know, but some just can''t seem to comprehend it no matter how clearly the risks involved are explained to them!¡± Persistent exposure to ineptitude among her crew had gradually depleted Agozi''s patience, a fact underscored by the irritable undertone in her voice. ¡°Remember those newbies from last time? How they practically begged to be reassigned when they realized what their job actually entailed?¡± ¡°I remember.¡± Agozi recoiled as the recollections surged back. ¡°No surprise we have to recruit after every mission,¡± she said irately. ¡°Half of these guys have no clue what they''re getting themselves into and bail soon as they do.¡± Kaz grudgingly admitted that he had made similar observations. They arrived at an intersection. ¡°The elevator to the Medical Bays is to the left,¡± Kaz said. ¡°Unless you¡¯re taking the same route, we won¡¯t be meeting each other again until tomorrow.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t sweat it,¡± Agozi replied happily as the two of them each headed down their respective corridor. Book 1: Act 1: Chapter 1: Part II The sudden chime at the entrance reverberated through the room. The jarring interruption tugged at Zelana''s inherent sensitivity to abrupt sounds, prompting her to shift her focus from her tablet and towards the door. I wasn¡¯t expecting anybody, Zelana thought irately. She spoke through the desk''s speaker device. ¡°You may enter, if you please.¡± Although Zelana felt frustrated by the surprise visit, her tone didn¡¯t betray any irritation. Decorum, rather than genuine cordiality, dictated her response. Had she aimed to extend true politeness, she would¡¯ve engaged in a more intricate welcoming ritual. However, she remained acutely aware that the subtleties of such a gesture would likely be lost on the majority of the socially unrefined crew members aboard. The sliding door opened, and the unannounced visitor entered her office. Zelana¡¯s heart sank upon seeing who it was. A Mevik, a male from the looks of it, approached her desk before halting in front of it, and then peered down at her. The formidable creature towered over Zelana, its daunting height dwarfing her petite stature of a barely three feet. In fact, it stood head and shoulders above most sentient beings. The dark, tar-like fur and fierce feline-like features presented a stark contrast to Zelana''s softer, bat-like appearance and vibrant coat. A wave of apprehension washed over her. Zelana held her breath, waiting for it to speak, her mind spinning with the worst-case scenarios, even though she knew there was no real danger. An utterly preposterous situation. Zelana was a being of pure rationality. There was no reason someone as enlightened as she should have to grapple with such primitive emotions. But then why was she finding it so difficult to concentrate? The Mevik spoke. ¡°Are you Doctor Zelana?¡± A moment stood. In a snap, Zelana forced herself to overcome her anxiety. ¡°You are correct,¡± she replied, her voice slightly shaken. ¡°How may I be of assistance to you?¡± ¡°I¡¯m Kaz of the Exploration Division and Minboa¡¯s Captain,¡± the Mevik said. ¡°I¡¯d like to ask you some questions if you¡¯ve got the time.¡± Only now does he inquire about my availability! What tiresome behavior! Zelana deactivated her data tablet and placed it inside a nearby rack. ¡°Is there a particular topic or issue you would like to discuss?¡± ¡°Your responsibilities and personal motivations,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°We¡¯ve not previously had the opportunity to work with a Langan crew member. Any insight you could provide would be greatly appreciated.¡± Zelana considered imparting upon Kaz the impropriety of inquiring about personal affairs yet acknowledged the lesson''s futility given his prevailing naivety. ¡°I understand that you¡¯re a Xeno-Psychiatrist,¡± Kaz said brusquely before Zelana had a chance to respond. ¡°Is that correct?¡± Zelana didn¡¯t reply immediately. I have prior experience working with individuals of his species, she reminded herself nervously. ¡°Yes, you are correct in your understanding¡± A moment stood. Zelana indicated a nearby chair with a gesture. ¡°Would you care to take a seat?¡± Although she presented her suggestion as a polite gesture, Zelana was secretly attempting to alleviate her own anxiety by reducing the height difference between them. ¡°I prefer to stand.¡± Zelana¡¯s nose twitched slightly. She had witnessed similar prideful behavior from other Meviks in the past. She¡¯d learned to overlook it, despite its unsuitability. Neither she nor they could change their inherent nature. ¡°If that is your preference,¡± Zelana replied politely. ¡°I am Doctor Zelana Song, the head of the Psychiatric Division. My expertise lies in the psychological analysis of alien life-forms, both sentient and non-sentient.¡± Kaz¡¯s whiskers twitched a bit. Zelana observed the flickering whiskers with keen interest. She understood this type of body language. Her profession demanded a familiarity with the subtle cues and nuances of the Union¡¯s various member species. ¡°How do you administer therapy to non-sentient life?¡± Kaz asked eventually, the confusion in his tone palpable. ¡°Intelligence is a multifaceted concept,¡± Zelana replied. ¡°With sufficient contemplation, it is possible to develop an understanding and connection with any subject.¡± ¡°I wouldn¡¯t know,¡± Kaz said curtly. ¡°The only non-sentient beings I encounter on a regular basis are those that end up on my dining plate.¡± Despite feeling disgusted by the lack of empathy displayed, Zelana managed to suppress her cringe. ¡°I am sorry you feel that way.¡± Her outwardly empathetic phrasing carried a subtle undertone of condescension. It was a nuance likely to go unnoticed by a rough-around-the-edges Mevik, regardless of their high-ranking status. As evidenced by its subsequent confusion. ¡°Why would you be sorry?¡± If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement. Zelana sighed inwardly. She could see that the poor creature lacked the prerequisite social intelligence for this sort of conversation and thus decided to change the topic. They spent the next few minutes discussing her work. ¡°Is it anticipated that we¡¯ll encounter any sentient life during our journey?¡± Kaz asked. ¡°It is unlikely,¡± Zelana replied. ¡°Galactic civilization has existed for nearly a thousand years, yet we have only identified a small number of sentient races. Only a few of these civilizations had expanded beyond their home planet at the time of first contact.¡± ¡°What about future missions?¡± ¡°The outlook remains unchanged.¡± The look on Kaz¡¯s face hinted at disappointment. ¡°So it is your expectation then we won¡¯t encounter new civilizations within our lifetimes?¡± ¡°That depends on how you define ¡®civilized¡¯,¡± Zelana replied. ¡°It is generally thought that most sentient life exists at a primitive stage of development, while only a minority are considered advanced.¡± ¡°Define ¡®advanced¡¯.¡± ¡°Capable of organizing beyond the tribal level of societal organization.¡± A moment stood. ¡°Besides analyzing alien life forms that you¡¯ll likely never encounter, what other work do you engage in?¡± I¡¯m uncertain if he¡¯s being sarcastic or if he simply lacks social skills, Zelana mused. ¡°I offer psychiatric services to the crew and provide assistance to other medical staff as needed.¡± Kaz''s whiskers and snout fluttered erratically, possibly indicating that something amused him. ¡°Don¡¯t feel too concerned,¡± he said. ¡°On a vessel such as the Minboa, mentally ill life forms tend to be self-correcting issues.¡± Zelana''s ears rose slightly in a moment of bemusement, not to mention concern at the statement. ¡°Could you elaborate on how it becomes self-correcting?¡± Kaz¡¯s tone became more amused still. ¡°Suffice to say, there¡¯s a reason half of the crew resigns following each mission.¡± His amusement astonished Zelana, as did the fact that he would joke about something like this. ¡°I apologize for being so blunt in my expression¡­¡± The discernable absence of sympathy in Zelana''s voice incited a corresponding shift in Kaz''s physical demeanor. ¡°But with all due respect Captain, I do not possess a high degree of tolerance for what you Mevik call ¡®humor¡¯.¡± Her snout jerked briefly. ¡°Especially one that is in such profoundly bad taste.¡± The movement of Kaz¡¯s whiskers and his body language indicated that he was experiencing embarrassment, a reaction that was understandable given the inappropriateness of his comment. Understandable by civilized standards. Were Kaz of a less distinguished social standing, Zelana suspected his indifference would have been unequivocal, a reflection of the puzzling Mevik species'' social dynamics. ¡°I apologize if my sense of humor is not to your liking,¡± Kaz said eventually. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to offend.¡± ¡°The issue is not my sense of humor or the lack thereof¡­¡± Zelana¡¯s statement was only partially accurate. The psychological literature was replete with references to humor as a coping mechanism during stressful and uncomfortable times. Yet, there were those who saw it as nothing more than a crude form of sadism. This perspective held sway among the Langa, a race that had evolved heightened levels of empathy and, paradoxically, a deficiency in humorous inclinations. ¡°Your ability to derive entertainment from the suffering of conscious beings is highly questionable,¡± Zelana said, her tone growing more judgmental still. ¡°If the suffering of your crew holds any potential for amusement, it has escaped my notice.¡± There was an awkward pause. ¡°If there are no further matters requiring my assistance, I will return to my duties, which are plentiful.¡± ¡°This will suffice for the present,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°In that case, I request that you depart.¡± Such forthrightness breached etiquette to an unacceptable degree, but the Mevik possessed little reputation for social sensitivity. Kaz appeared to hesitate, with his whiskers flickering briefly. ¡°Understood,¡± he replied, his tone slightly apologetic. ¡°I don¡¯t wish to impose on your time longer than necessary and I appreciate your willingness to speak with me.¡± He turned and approached the door. He paused briefly near the doorway, but ultimately left the room. Zelana reached for the data tablet and pulled it out of the rack. Despite advancements in personal computer technology, many still favored traditional reading methods. Thin, flexible data tablets emerged as a compromise. This particular one contained the psychological profiles of the ship¡¯s crew. Zelana navigated to Kaz''s profile by using buttons located in the tablet¡¯s top-right corner. Profile: Kaz Race: Mevik Gender: Male Age: Adult Height: 5.7ft Weight: 136 lbs Eye color: Brown Fur color: Black Cognitive quotient: 115 Responsibility: Captain of the GEG Minboa. Zelana couldn''t suppress a scoff at Kaz''s cognitive score. While satisfactory by the standards of most species, it fell short of the Langa''s expectations. In fairness, the Langa tended to regard most other species as intellectually inferior, including the Pretenti. Zelana meticulously perused Kaz¡¯s entry, ensuring she overlooked no crucial detail. His profile, a compilation of data from prior missions and his academy tenure, had been facilitated by an automatic surveillance AI. Such intrusive techniques sparked ethical debates, but compliance with the Union¡¯s stringent standards remained non-negotiable. Kaz appeared typical enough for a Mevik, displaying impressive physical prowess but also cognitive abilities that surpassed his species'' average. Despite the lack of refinement, his efficiency was undeniable, albeit delivered in a crude manner. Zelana noted that a second person accompanied Kaz, a situation not uncommon, yet not universal. She accessed the Lieutenant''s profile for review. Profile: Agozi Race: Mevik Gender: Female Age: Adult Height: 4.9ft Weight: 98 lbs Eye color: Blue Fur color: Yellow Cognitive quotient: 118 Responsibility: Lieutenant Commander of the GEG Minboa. The fact that Kaz''s subordinate hailed from a more distinguished social background intrigued Zelana. It led her to question why she would opt for such a role. However, she curtailed further contemplation on this matter, recalling her own voluntary service on the ship despite her elevated status. She decided to reserve judgment on this individual until they had an opportunity to interact. Zelana switched off the tablet and clumsily rose from her chair. Despite the brevity of her shift, a surprising wave of fatigue washed over her. It was challenging not to feel a twinge of envy towards the Mevik, whose stamina clearly outmatched hers. Fortunately, she had the foresight to keep a selection of amenities within her office. Given her herbivorous dietary preferences, she had little choice, considering the largely omnivorous crew''s food was fundamentally incompatible with her own. Zelana made her way to a corner table boasting a self-heating kettle and various utensils. Unfortunately, trying to use these tools turned out to be harder than she anticipated. Although evolution had endowed the Langa with unusually flexible wing skin, their abilities in terms of manipulating objects remained unremarkable. Furthermore, the wings had become non-aerodynamic and served no purpose beyond evoking memories of a past epoch. Zelana eventually managed to obtain what she needed. The kettle released steam, followed by a sharp whistle. She poured the hot liquid into a small plastic cup and returned to her desk. After taking a small sip, she placed the cup on her desk. Zelana longed for more intellectually stimulating companionship, but her time aboard the Minboa presented few opportunities for such interactions. Most of the crew were Mevik and Prol. The former lacked refinement, and the latter had a distinct lack of personality. There were also the Cisians, but their alien nature made them too otherworldly for her tastes. At times, Zelana found herself questioning whether the effort was truly justified. There had certainly been those who had taken issue with her choice. Upon learning of her decision, her family had expressed their disapproval. Their concerns held some validity, considering the unfortunate fate of other Langas who had recklessly embarked on similar ventures, only to return disheartened or mentally scarred. Or both. Assuring her family of her well-being had demanded a significant exertion of effort on her part. Zelana took another sip of the warm and comforting liquid, which helped to restore her determination. She recognized the indispensability of mental fortitude in confronting the challenges that awaited her on this journey. Book 1: Act 1: Chapter 1: Part III/Final Agozi fumbled in the darkness, searching for the light switch with her right hand. She eventually found it and turned it on, lighting up her living quarters. Agozi surveyed her new accommodations, her face revealing unmistakable disappointment. She hadn''t expected a manor, but this bare-bones setup fell short of her swanky pad back on Mevik. The place felt less like a home and more like a dilapidated shoebox. At least they¡¯d already brought her stuff. Her gear filled the tiny space to the brim. It squeezed in, but just barely. If she''d known her digs were going to be this cramped, she would''ve packed lighter. Get real Agozi! This is a Union ship, not a luxury pad! she told herself, trying to shake off the disappointment. Agozi felt thirsty and started looking for the fridge. She found one in the kitchen, if you could even call it that. When she saw how tiny the fridge was, she groaned in frustration. She opened it up and searched for something to drink. Booze didn''t tempt her, unlike Kaz. Her impulsiveness didn''t need the added kick of alcohol. She grabbed a bottle of fruit juice and a ready-to-eat meal instead. Ravenously hungry, she tore the plastic film off and placed the packet inside the microwave. Her finger lingered over the start button, withdrawing at the last moment. Agozi let out another frustrated sigh. Probably by accident, the microwave provided used the wrong alphabet. Having a multicultural crew had its downsides, linguistic inconsistencies being one of them. Her personal translator couldn''t translate symbols or text, just verbal speech, so it wasn''t any help in this case. Agozi gave the controls a nervous glance. I''ll figure it out somehow. She awkwardly messed with the microwave controls before pressing the Start button. The microwave turned on. Got it! A grin appeared on her face as she stepped away from the microwave. But her smirk vanished when the microwave didn''t shut off when it was supposed to. Agozi frantically interacted with the controls again in an attempt to turn it off. Instead of shutting down, the plate inside the microwave began to spin faster and faster. Eventually, her meal exploded violently. "No!" she exclaimed in surprise, her eyes widening in shock and disappointment as she reflexively covered her face with her hands. This was just a reflexive reaction. The exploding meal posed no danger. She slowly stepped back from the microwave, her ears drooping in disappointment and disbelief. "Well, this is just great¡­¡± She stared at the carcass of her meal for a while longer. ¡°This is what life on a Union ship is like, huh?" She sighed. Might as well hit the sack now. She undressed and attempted to settle into her bed. The crummy mattress didn¡¯t exactly feel up to par with what she was used to back home. It felt stiff and uncomfortable. A far cry from the plush bed she enjoyed back home. ¡°Wow! Even the bed is poo!¡± Agozi lamented out loud. She rolled over, burying her face into the mattress with her back towards the ceiling. ¡°Ugh, definitely not like at home.¡± Agozi attempted to remind herself why she was there. Why she had joined. She rolled back onto her back again. As she lay there, staring at the ceiling, doubts about her decision to sign up started to creep in. It had seemed like a good idea at the time, but now those nagging doubts wouldn''t let her be. Agozi had always stuck out like a sore thumb in her family. She had brains and a silver spoon in her mouth, a combo you didn''t see often in a Mevik. Joining the Union navy just made her stick out even more. She could''ve ridden her family''s wealth to any cushy job she wanted. But no, she had to pick the crappiest gig in the galaxy. Standing out wasn''t always a win. Sure, people noticed her smarts, but her act-first-think-later attitude made her the odd one out in the family. When she announced her intentions about joining the Union fleet academy to her family, her dad nearly blew a fuse. This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. Union work is for the desperate and the raw! Her father had decried at the time. After some back-and-forth, Agozi finally got her dad to see things her way and accept that she''d made the right choice. This is our chance to shake things up! I''ll bring honor to our house! she¡¯d argued. Her dad wasn''t thrilled, but he eventually caved¡ªkind of. He admitted she had a point or two, even if he thought she was just blowing smoke. In the end, he still coughed up the cash for her academy fees. It was there where she¡¯d met Kaz. He didn''t come from a fancy family. He¡¯d only gotten his chance at the Academy because he aced his tests. Union rules said, much to the annoyance of some, that anyone who aced their tests got an automatic in, no matter where they ranked on the social ladder. It didn''t take them long to notice each other. Agozi had brains without the arrogance, and Kaz had guts without being a jerk. It had only been a matter of time before they hit it off and hooked up. Her eyes started to droop, and before she knew it, she¡¯d dozed off. ***** Kaz grunted in annoyance when he saw how little was left in the bottle. Barely enough for two drinks, he mused. Though not the pinnacle of professionalism, Kaz found solace in alcohol to combat the boredom inherent in administrative tasks. As fate would have it, an abundance of such tedious work awaited him. Every new Captain inheriting the helm of a vessel triggered this standard protocol. Kaz understood the reasoning behind this, but it hardly lessened the task''s tiresome nature. I''ll make the most of it, he thought to himself whilst reaching for the last bottle in the liquor cabinet. Agozi had chastised him for his alcohol consumption on many occasions. He paid scant attention to her words. His indulgence hadn''t escalated to the point of damaging his professional standing or personal relationships. His loyal Lieutenant and partner, thus far, had chosen to overlook this minor transgression. At least most of the time. He poured himself a drink and settled at his workstation comfortably. With most of Minboa''s crew already resting, his professional duties denied him the same luxury. This reality stirred minor frustration within him. His Mevik endurance sustained his alertness and concentration, but only for a limited duration. His preference for late-night alcohol added no benefits. His four-fingered hands worked the keyboard with professional levels of consistency. As the night wore on, Kaz felt an increasing sense of relief over his depleted alcohol stock. He could only speculate about the severity of his lethargy if he had kept drinking. That''s not to say he couldn''t carry on. He had persevered through many similar grueling nights in the past. His focused hazel colored predator eyes scanned each line of text while he operated the keyboard, making sure to miss nothing important. The dominant portion of the workload involved assessing the new recruits to confirm their status as fully competent members of the team. Agozi hadn¡¯t been wrong about them. Despite the Union''s initial examinations successfully eliminating most unqualified applicants, a select few always slipped through the gaps. The responsibility of identifying these outliers fell upon Kaz. His paramount concern was to avoid any potential threats to the mission and crew safety from unqualified pranksters. Such cases remained remarkably rare. Most aspirants drawn to Union work, particularly the notorious Exploration Division, swiftly found their dreams shattered upon comprehending the true responsibilities involved. However, this harsh reality failed to dissuade an insignificant number of uninformed individuals from enlisting, lured by the prospect of a lucrative payout. Indeed, the remuneration was attractive. The social credit allocated per mission dwarfed that of most other Union assignments and most of it was unexpirable. The workers had the privilege of accumulating their credits while on duty, allowing for expenditure upon their return home. Kaz eventually reached Xeno-Psychiatrist Zelana¡¯s profile page. As he scrutinized the page, memories of their initial awkward encounter surged back. Upon reflection, delaying the visit until he had familiarized himself with the necessary social etiquette for smooth interaction with such a sensitive species as the Langa might have been a wiser choice. But such contemplation held no relevance at this juncture. The past remained unchangeable. In all honesty, Kaz didn¡¯t particularly cherish the idea of interspecies socialization. Despite the Mevik''s official inclusion in the esteemed ''Big Four'' along with the Prol, Langa, and Pretenti, most perceived them as mere reinforcements, their lack of refinement compensated for only by raw resilience. Nobody wanted the Mevik around until they suddenly needed them. The irony of this, not to mention hypocrisy, didn''t go unnoticed by the Mevik. This hierarchy had manifested as the Union¡¯s unofficial class system. The Pretenti supervised, the Langa fostered, the Prol maintained, and the Mevik shouldered the undesirable tasks that other species deemed beneath them. Kaz¡¯s whiskers jerked in annoyance at the notion. Tasks they lack either the courage to undertake or simply the capability to accomplish, he mused irately. While perusing Zelana''s page, he noted her lack of fulfillment of the standard prerequisites for service. Fleet Command had made an exception for her. He already knew this, but the fact remained a sore point. Regardless of her brilliance, those incapable of withstanding the mental pressure of service posed a potential risk. He finished reviewing her page and moved on. He eventually reached Agozi¡¯s page. He found little new information to review. As her mate, he already had an intimate knowledge of everything required. A hint of smugness crept into his thoughts as memories of their initial interaction resurfaced. Her initial assumption of him being a training instructor due to his towering stature and serious demeanor sparked amusement at the time. Despite the divergence in their temperaments, or possibly as a result of it, they¡¯d bonded quickly. Or perhaps she just had an intense admiration for his performance within their intimate quarters. Regardless of the reason, their bond had endured. Kaz finally completed his work after what felt like an eternity. He rose from the chair, switched off the holo-display, and glanced at his watch. The night was already halfway through. Book 1: Act 1: Chapter 2: Part I The following weeks progressed in a predictable manner. The Minboa traversed various sectors, periodically exiting slipspace to assess the surrounding systems. Upon detecting any significant finding, they adjusted their trajectory and dispatched reconnaissance teams to the planetary surface as the circumstances allowed. Life in the galaxy remained rare. The Xeno-Biologists held only modest expectations for discovery. But they¡¯d underestimated their luck. Scanner readings revealed indications of activity on not one, but two neighboring celestial bodies. The first planet was a barren desert and inhospitable for long-term study, yet the team managed to collect numerous specimens, mainly plants and insects. The second had lush jungles, with a high probability of complex, non-sentient life, prompting celebration among the Biologists. By the end of the mission cycle, they¡¯d completed five surface expeditions and several system surveys. Low supplies compelled the Minboa to restock at the nearest sector station, a process set to take several days. The downtime granted the crew a chance to relax, as most sector stations had access to civilian and recreational amenities, thereby affording ample opportunities for leisure and recreation. Several days passed. With the resupplying process approaching its conclusion, it became imperative to expedite the proceedings. ***** While trekking down a station corridor towards the hangar, Kaz and Agozi passed an armed patrol of five Mevik. Agozi caught sight of the squad just as it passed, and her eyes widened slightly upon sighting the amount of lethal firepower they packed. It wasn¡¯t that unusual for exploration vessels to have armed security, but this particular squad took it to an entirely new level. Five Meviks, each one a head taller than the average, made up the group. They sported tritatium armor vests and giant slugthrowers. Tritatium was impressive stuff, not to mention costly, being both lightweight and durable. Even the Exploration Division with its big budget rarely doled out this kind of gear. But that wasn''t the part that got under her skin. Slugthrowers were usually under tight control. Seeing them flaunted so openly made Agozi''s whiskers twitch in surprise not to mention deep levels of concern. She abruptly halted her movement. ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± Kaz asked after noticing Agozi''s sudden surprise. Agozi didn¡¯t respond to Kaz¡¯s question. She flagged down the patrol leader before he could depart. Once she got his attention, she approached him. ¡°Hey, sorry to bother you, but what''s going on here?¡± she asked, gesturing to the heavy weaponry. The squad leader''s whiskers twitched in confusion. ¡°You haven''t been informed?¡± Agozi¡¯s whiskers jerked. ¡°About what?¡± ¡°It''s for your protection.¡± Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. Agozi¡¯s whiskers jerked even more intensely. ¡°I¡¯m confused,¡± she said disconcertingly. ¡°Protected from what?¡± The squad leader hesitated. ¡°We were en route to your ship when you hailed us,¡± he replied eventually. ¡°We assumed you knew.¡± Agozi and Kaz exchanged worried glances. ¡°Any idea what he¡¯s talking about?¡± Agozi asked. ¡°I¡¯m just as uninformed.¡± Although Kaz seemed less concerned than Agozi, there was a hint of unease in his voice. He looked at the squad leader. ¡°Who assigned you to us?¡± The squad leader hesitated. ¡°Sorry, but I am unable to disclose that information.¡± Kaz''s whiskers twitched in surprise, and Agozi also reacted similarly. ¡°I¡¯m the Captain,¡± he said irately. ¡°I have the authority to inquire about any information relating to the ship and its crew.¡± His tone became more assertive. ¡°I must insist that you tell me.¡± The squad leader¡¯s whiskers jerked awkwardly. ¡°I¡¯m sorry Captain, but I cannot.¡± Kaz¡¯s whiskers jerked again but this time it lasted for longer. The squad leader could tell Kaz wasn¡¯t happy, and hurriedly assured him all would be explained soon. ¡°All will be explained prior to our departure.¡± He paused. ¡°Forgive me Captain, but we¡¯re running late.¡± Kaz begrudgingly dropped the subject. ¡°Fine.¡± The squad resumed its prior path. Agozi looked at Kaz, perplexed. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± she asked. ¡°You didn¡¯t know about any of this?¡± ¡°No,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°But there must be an explanation. The Council wouldn¡¯t assign us security like that without a good reason.¡± Agozi shuddered. ¡°Did you see those slugthrowers?¡± Her ears became a bit droopy, and for a moment, she looked visibly uncomfortable. ¡°What exactly are they expecting us to find out there? Giant space scarabs?!¡± Scarabs were a particularly nasty predator native to the Mevik homeworld. Agozi struggled to justify so much firepower lest they encounter an upscaled version of such a monstrosity. ¡°The odds seem rather low,¡± Kaz replied, as if the question was genuine. ¡°Well, of course they are!¡± Agozi replied, whilst mockingly rolling her eyes. ¡°I wasn¡¯t being literal. I was just making a point.¡± ¡°Your concerns are valid,¡± Kaz said. ¡°And I agree. Once we get briefed on our next mission, we¡¯ll have our chance to make inquiries into the matter.¡± ¡°Any idea what it¡¯ll be?¡± ¡°No.¡± Kaz paused for a moment and his whiskers fluttered. ¡°Which now when I think about it seems unusual. It¡¯s not customary to assign missions just prior to departure. Nominally, officers are informed a fair bit earlier or at least told on a need-to-know bases. So far I¡¯ve heard nothing.¡± ¡°Any idea why they haven¡¯t told us yet?¡± ¡°No idea.¡± ***** The sliding door whooshed open and the two of them strolled into the bridge area. As they walked in, Agozi spotted an unfamiliar crew member standing at the viewport with their back facing them. ¡°Who''s that by the viewport?¡± Before Kaz could answer, the unknown turned to face them. It moved slowly and carefully, making sure its big skunk-like tail didn''t cause any commotion. Agozi could feel the icy grip of dread taking hold. Oh, don''t tell me... The moment she spotted who¡ªor rather, what¡ªwas approaching, she let out a sigh of exasperation, praying its visit had nothing to do with their mission. She leaned closer to Kaz, unsure of what to think. ¡°What¡¯s a Pretenti doing here?¡± she muttered irritably under her breath. ¡°I¡¯m unaware,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°I hadn¡¯t received any prior notification of their presence.¡± The Pretenti mattered to the Union, but you''d hardly ever find them on ships. They preferred the comfort of plush offices, preferably city-side. They had that in common with the Langa. But while the Langa at least had a soft spot, the self-centered Pretenti were a whole different ball game. It addressed them joyfully. ¡°Ah! At long last, you have graced me with your presence!¡± the Pretenti said with an air of superiority. It gestured for them to come closer. They approached. As they drew nearer, Agozi had to stifle a laugh at its over-the-top getup. It looked tailor-made, a stark contrast to the simple blue uniforms of everyone else. The design was all purple leather and a bunch of other high-end fabrics. Probably cost more than its manor, she thought. She didn''t actually know, but imagining the snobbish creature living in some massive mansion was too easy. And it wasn''t just the ridiculous outfit. The creature''s grooming was spot-on. Its black and white fur looked professionally styled, and Agozi could''ve sworn she smelled a hint of perfume. It was all so overdone and show-offy, just like the creature itself. Everything about the creature just oozed pretentiousness. Agozi¡¯s whiskers flickered sneeringly. The Pretenti took several steps forward and began talking to Kaz in some fancy-schmancy dialect. ¡°Good evening to the both of you, and most notably to you, my esteemed Captain,¡± the Pretenti said. ¡°I am Honorary-Lieutenant Snikers, assigned to your service at the behest of the Council.¡± The situation didn¡¯t sit well with Agozi. ¡°Assigned to him for what?¡± she asked Snikers, her tone laced with accusation. Snikers looked undeniably smug, his snout twisted in self-satisfaction. ¡°As is only fitting for one of my esteemed station, the Council has seen fit to bestow upon me the honor of serving as your Captain¡¯s Secondary-Lieutenant,¡± Snikers replied. ¡°As per the Council¡¯s wishes.¡± Agozi needed a moment to process the words before responding. "The Council sent you to us?" Agozi found it hard to swallow that the Union Council would send Snikers without giving anyone a heads-up. ¡°So I have stipulated two times as is,¡± Snikers replied sneeringly. ¡°Must I really repeat myself thrice before the true meaning of my statement can be properly comprehended? I find it most discombobulating.¡± Ugh, he''s just as terrible as I thought he''d be, Agozi thought. ¡°You''d think the Council would at least have the decency to give us a heads-up.¡± Snikers looked taken aback. ¡°The Council didn''t bother to inform you?¡± He asked, sounding genuinely surprised. Book 1: Act 1: Chapter 2: Part II ¡°How very peculiar,¡± Snikers said with pretentious flair. ¡°One would assume someone of your distinguished reputation and high rank would be entitled to the necessary respect.¡± Snikers was really milking his moment and sounded even more full of himself than before. "But then, when one looks beyond the superficial, you are nothing more than a mere child wearing clothing of higher rank. In retrospect, I should have anticipated this level of ineptitude from an intellectually inferior race like the Mevik. I will adjust my expectations of your future work performance accordingly.¡± Agozi''s whiskers twitched whilst her body stiffened in anger. Scratch that. He''s even more unbearable than that! Kaz also had his doubts. ¡°How does the Council justify such a deviation from protocol?¡± he said. ¡°It isn¡¯t customary to assign two lieutenants to a single ship." Snikers''s expression contorted into something that might¡¯ve passed for a smile, though with the Pretenti, it was often hard to distinguish between genuine emotion and arrogant self-satisfaction. ¡°The Council agrees the task at hand is important enough to warrant an emissary,¡± he said. ¡°I have been assigned to act as the Council''s voice, eyes, and ears at all times.¡± Pride filled his tone. ¡°But make no mistake, my dear Captain. I assure you that my loyalty and reliability are beyond reproach.¡± He adopted a hint of arrogance in his voice. ¡°Unlike your other sentient assets.¡± Agozi''s whiskers bristled even more. Assets? Utilized? The use of such detached language left a sour note in her mouth. ¡°Feel free to use me as you would any other until or unless stated otherwise,¡± Snikers then said. Until or unless stated otherwise? Agozi was now convinced that Snikers showing up spelled trouble. ¡°What¡¯s so important about this next mission?¡± Kaz asked. ¡°What he said,¡± Agozi echoed. Snikers kept quiet. He clasped his hands behind his back, pivoted, and strode toward the viewport. Arriving there, he stood with his back to Agozi and Kaz. A moment stood. ¡°What if I were to inform you that the galaxy is but mere inches away from a new golden age?¡± His voice grew serious, and his words came out with measured slowness. ¡°What if I told you that our very way of life, travel, and communication¡­¡± He paused for dramatic effect. ¡°May soon be altered forever?¡± With purposeful deliberation, he turned to face them again. The smug expression from earlier had vanished, replaced by a more serious gaze. Their whiskers quivered with intrigue. ¡°How about you give us some more details?¡± Agozi requested impatiently. Kaz echoed her sentiment. The smug look returned to Snikers''s face. How refreshing it was to have the briefest glimpse of the non-pretentious Snikers for all of ten seconds, Agozi thought, whiskers fluttering with disappointment for a brief time. ¡°Surely, the two of you must have taken notice of the additional complement of specialists assigned to your ship, and the fact that resupplying has taken longer than usual?¡± They''d noticed all that, sure, but Agozi couldn''t see how it tied into his grandstanding. ¡°Just crew members coming and going, nothing new or noteworthy.¡± A hint of snark had slipped into her voice, though she''d tried to play it cool. ¡°Indeed, but one must note that your usual crew are not esteemed professionals, handpicked from the Union''s most prestigious Institute of Science.¡± The statement rendered Agozi silent. The UIS, the Union''s brainiac central, housed some of the galaxy''s sharpest minds. You''d rarely find them on a Union ship, let alone signing up for something as risky as the Exploration Division. They didn''t need to. Government and corporate bigwigs practically tripped over themselves, waving fat paychecks to get their attention. But considering the presence of Doctor Zelana on the ship, maybe she was wrong in feeling that way. If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. ¡°We''ve got the UIS involved with us?¡± Agozi asked. ¡°Indeed, such is the case.¡± ¡°But why?¡± Agozi switched gears when she caught how snippy she''d come off. ¡°I mean, not that I don¡¯t want them.¡± Truth be told, Agozi was geeking out on the inside; having UIS brainiacs on board was like a dream come true. Snikers overlooked her unprofessional conduct. ¡°Their area of expertise is in slipspace research, and their accomplishments within their field are most commendable,¡± he replied. ¡°It is of utmost importance that they accompany you to ensure the proper maintenance of the new warp drive we have installed.¡± Agozi needed a beat to let those words really sink in. ¡°New warp drive, huh?¡± she drawled. ¡°Well, that explains why we''ve been waiting forever for resupply.¡± Agozi hadn''t connected the dots then, but it all clicked now. Restocking the ship shouldn''t have taken as long as it did, but without any major hiccups, they didn''t question it. More so since the delay meant more leisure time. ¡°You guys were secretly playing mechanic with the ship?¡± Agozi asked. ¡°Indeed, my dear, that is correct.¡± ¡°But for what?¡± Agozi then asked, her voice once again unintentionally passive-aggressive. ¡°Was the old drive just not dope enough for those UIS know-it-alls?¡± Agozi''s words caused Snikers to slightly twitch his snout, indicating that her jab had irritated the pretentious creature, though the reaction had been barely noticeable. The Mevik were known for their hotheadedness, and other races often criticized them for it. But Agozi sometimes took it to a whole new level, much to Kaz¡¯s chagrin. ¡°Why, my dear, the old warp drive served its intended purpose splendidly throughout its course of service,¡± Snikers replied. ¡°If it wasn''t broken, why the need to replace it?¡± Snikers gloated. ¡°Because this one, my dear, is not like your antiquated and outdated piece of machinery.¡± Snikers''s pompous chatter was only getting under her skin more. Every new sentence added another layer to his show-offy persona. The Pretenti might¡¯ve been the only race in the galaxy where character growth meant going downhill personality wise. Or at least that''s how the Mevik saw it. ¡°Could you be just a bit more specific?¡± Agozi asked, whiskers jerking in annoyance. Snikers overlooked the impolite tone. Or maybe he just thought it was beneath him to give a damn. Agozi honestly couldn''t tell. ¡°Behold, my dear, for this masterpiece has been handcrafted by the most brilliant minds in the galaxy, a project of true passion, nurtured to adulthood through tireless effort and investments that only a true connoisseur can comprehend!¡± Snikers sounded smug if not borderline prideful. ¡°But it shall all be worth it in the end, for the design is not only unorthodox but equally effective, a true testament to its undeniable brilliance.¡± Agozi''s whiskers twitched in annoyance. ¡°Just cut to the chase.¡± Snikers gloated again. ¡°Please forgive my excess of enthusiasm,¡± he said. ¡°It is all too common to become caught up in the sheer magnitude of such a significant event.¡± ¡°What significant event?¡± Agozi asked, whiskers jerking momentarily. ¡°Thanks to the tireless efforts of the galaxy''s brightest minds, we are no longer held back by the tedious limitations that have so annoyingly hindered the ambitions of our galaxy for far too long. It is important to understand that these advancements transcend the natural progression of technology. We are talking about a quantum leap in the way in which¡ª" Agozi had reached her limit with the endless rambling. ¡°Can you just get to the point already or are you just going to keep spouting vague nonsense at us?!¡± Kaz gave Agozi a look of disapproval in response to her rude words, prompting her to quickly backtrack and soften her tone. If sarcasm counted as ¡®softening¡¯ your tone. ¡°Uh, I mean, yay us!¡± Agozi said mockingly. Coming from a high-profile family didn''t give Agozi a free pass to shoot her mouth off without any blowback, something Kaz had to remind her of now and then. But Snikers seemed more than happy to play the reminder. ¡°Your Lieutenant would benefit from your disciplinary measures in response to such an impertinent interruption,¡± he said whilst giving Kaz a stern look. ¡°I¡¯ll take your suggestion into consideration.¡± No he won¡¯t, Agozi mused to herself, amused by how she¡¯d clearly annoyed the pretentious skunk. Agozi much doubted Kaz would do a single damn thing this obnoxious creature requested of him unless absolutely unavoidable. After all of Snikers''s grandstanding, they finally cut to the chase. ¡°With the advancements we''ve made, dimensional jumps are no longer necessary for performing scans.¡± Surprise was written all over Agozi''s face, and even Kaz looked a bit thrown. But their awe quickly shifted to skepticism. ¡°You can''t scan objects within real-space while remaining inside slipspace,¡± Agozi said. ¡°Such is the authority of contemporary machinery, my dear child,¡± Snikers replied smugly. Agozi seriously doubted that someone from Snikers¡¯s social background possessed any knowledge of technology whatsoever. ¡°Uh, sorry to break it to you, but that''s just not how scanners work,¡± she said sneeringly. ¡°They can only pick up objects in the same physical dimension as themselves. Trying to scan for something outside of slipspace while you''re in slipspace would be like trying to locate a single drop of water in a rainstorm.¡± Her tone took on a mocking edge. ¡°And the rainstorm ain¡¯t even on the same planet.¡± Snikers''s large tail jerked slightly, a hint of pride. ¡°Hence why this revolutionary technology will alter the very course of history itself.¡± ¡°You seem quite confident in your invention,¡± Kaz said. ¡°And indeed, I can be nothing else.¡± ¡°Speaking of which, why haven''t I heard about any of this before?¡± Agozi asked. ¡°If this tech is as big a deal as you''re making it out to be, the media would have covered it at some point.¡± Snikers shot her a judgmental look, as if her question was not only out of line but also dumb as rocks. ¡°Your lack of awareness regarding these advancements is not surprising, my dear,¡± he replied. ¡°It is a predictable and forgivable state of affairs, as all knowledge relating to these matters has been withheld from the general public.¡± Agozi¡¯s whiskers jerked. ¡°Why would they withhold it?¡± Book 1: Act 1: Chapter 2: Part III ¡°The short answer is credits,¡± Snikers said. ¡°And the long answer?¡± Kaz asked. Agozi¡¯s whiskers jerked in irritation. Was it really necessary to ask? ¡°The arduous development of this superlative technology necessitated the combined artistry of the most brilliant minds in the galaxy, toiling for countless billions of hours, and fueled by a staggering investment of trillions of credits - a truly unprecedented feat¡­¡± Agozi couldn''t put her claw on what that pause meant, but it gave her the creeps. ¡°However, one must concede that such a substantial enterprise could only be rendered possible through the prudent procurement of suitable aid from third parties¡­¡± Agozi¡¯s whiskers jerked. ¡°What third parties?¡± ¡°The Miodani Corporation,¡± Snikers replied. The Miodani were a mega umbrella-corp, holding the reins of some of the Union''s most powerful businesses. They had their fingers in pretty much every pie, and you''d be hard-pressed to find something they didn''t have a hand in. ¡°The work we are conducting here has been met with fervent enthusiasm, but they require, understandably, a commensurate return on their sizable investment.¡± With every new nugget of info, Agozi liked what she was hearing less and less. ¡°The Council, in its wisdom, has seen fit to negotiate a clandestine arrangement with them, whereby they shall receive exclusive dominion over crucial aerospace industries in exchange for providing the necessary funding for this ambitious project, as well as being granted sole proprietorship over the production of the revolutionary warpdrive technology, once the project comes to fruition.¡± ¡°Can¡¯t beat cronyism,¡± Agozi said sarcastically. Snikers seemed to take the comment to heart, his snout twitching with a hint of revulsion. ¡°Let us not mistake pragmatism for impropriety,¡± Snikers shot back with a touch of defensiveness, which actually got a chuckle out of Agozi. ¡°They provided us with a commodity of paramount necessity, and in turn, it was only reasonable to offer them a commensurate return on their investment.¡± ¡°Sure it was,¡± Agozi said, whiskers flickering and eyes rolling. ¡°Unfortunately, the exorbitant cost of the investment has precipitated an unfortunate predicament,¡± Snikers added following a brief pause. Well, no surprise there, Agozi mused. ¡°Should this information leak, the potential for a significant backlash is a very real concern.¡± Agozi adjusted her stance, displaying both amusement and dismay. ¡°Oh, how very unexpected,¡± she said mockingly. ¡°I mean, who doesn''t just love secret trillion-credit deals made by their oh-so-transparent government?¡± She had a bad feeling about where this was going and wanted to put as much distance between her and it as possible. ¡°Let me guess, you want us to be the ones to safeguard your shady business investment?¡± The frost in her voice was hard to miss. ¡°That¡¯s the reason you¡¯re here, isn¡¯t it?¡± Snikers¡¯s nose jerked slightly. ¡°Rest assured, my dear child, there is nothing of questionable nature transpiring at this juncture.¡± I highly doubt that, Agozi thought irately. ¡°Please, do attempt to view this matter from our elevated perspective,¡± Snikers said. ¡°If you had invested a staggering trillion credits and half a lifetime into something, would you not demand the utmost protection for your investment?¡± Agozi conceded the point but couldn''t see why they had to be involved. ¡°Last I checked, we''re explorers, not your personal security team,¡± she said. ¡°This isn¡¯t in our job description.¡± ¡°Your job description is not limited to your expectations, my dear. It expands to encompass any task required of you.¡± ¡°Says you.¡± ¡°Says the council.¡± Kaz looked like he wanted to say something, but he stayed quiet. It was pretty obvious, however, that Agozi''s tone wasn''t sitting well with him. ¡°If your pet project is so important, why not simply get your own ship and crew?¡± ¡°We most certainly possess the financial means,¡± Snikers replied. ¡°And believe me, we would, had it been deemed permittable.¡± ¡°So why wasn¡¯t it?¡± Snikers''s tone took on a more serious note. If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. ¡°The Miodani have numerous competitors, and we are aware that they are listening attentively,¡± Snikers replied. ¡°Given the high profile of this event, it would be utterly impossible to maintain confidentiality under ordinary circumstances.¡± Agozi understood now. ¡°You want us to make your trial run look like just another boring reconnaissance mission to avoid the press?¡± Snikers¡¯s lips curled smugly. ¡°Your level of comprehension seems to have improved slightly since the beginning of our conversation,¡± he replied with a tone of condescension. ¡°I suppose it''s a small comfort.¡± Agozi itched to knock the pompous skunk down a peg or two, but she bit her tongue. Irritation still bubbled under her skin. Snikers took the silence that followed as Agozi giving in. ¡°Ah, much better,¡± he said pretentiously. ¡°Your etiquette is starting to approach an acceptable level.¡± By now, Agozi was about ready to blow her top. But just as she was gearing up to let Snikers have it, Kaz jumped in with a question. ¡°Where are you planning on taking us?¡± he asked. ¡°We¡¯re currently several sectors away from the nearest uncharted regions, and even with our recent resupply, our resources would be depleted long before we reach such a destination.¡± Agozi¡¯s whiskers jerked in anger. ¡°Or maybe politics is more your forte than logistics, and you simply didn''t bother to consider that?¡± Snikers''s snout twisted into a sneering expression of amusement. ¡°That, my dear Captain, is actually not entirely accurate.¡± Kaz and Agozi''s whiskers twitched in unison, revealing their mutual surprise. ¡°I don¡¯t follow,¡± Kaz said eventually. ¡°Same,¡± Agozi seconded. ¡°The Unstable Regions.¡± ¡°What about the Unstable Regions?¡± Kaz asked. The appropriately named Unstable Regions were a volatile and tumultuous expanse of space located to the south of the Galactic Center. Despite the technological advances, traversing the area remained impossible. ¡°It is precisely where we shall be going, my esteemed colleague,¡± Snikers replied. ¡°Or more precisely, through them.¡± Agozi finally spoke, her voice carrying a tone of disbelief after the prolonged silence. ¡°You want us to go through them?¡± ¡°Indeed.¡± ¡°The same regions we can''t even get close to with probes?¡± ¡°Veraciously indeed.¡± ¡°Who have been deemed utterly unsafe for travel ever since being discovered?¡± Agozi¡¯s tone only grew more bewildered. ¡°You¡¯re talking about those same Unstable Regions?¡± ¡°It appears you''re struggling to comprehend,¡± Snikers replied. ¡°Shall I provide further explanation?¡± ¡°Elaboration would be nice,¡± Agozi replied snidely. Snikers took a brief, contemplative pause. ¡°We have ascertained, with the utmost certitude, that the Unstable Regions present themselves as the consummate milieu for examining our groundbreaking drive, due in no small part to their notorious inaccessibility,¡± he said. ¡°Concealing our endeavors, I assure you, shall be rendered an elementary affair, as the absence of any venturesome souls in these treacherous expanses is all but guaranteed.¡± Agozi¡¯s whiskers twitched nervously. ¡°Well, duh,¡± she replied, whiskers jerking sarcastically. ¡°No one goes there ''cause no one ever makes it back!¡± "Fret not, my dear," Snikers said with a dismissive air. "The groundbreaking innovation of our novel drive ensures an unparalleled level of secure passage." Agozi wasn''t buying it. She wasn''t some star-chart whiz, but she knew enough to see the madness in diving into the galaxy''s danger zone just because some fancy-pants bureaucrat like Snikers said it was all good. ¡°You can''t just cruise through all those hazards like you''re on an afternoon drive just ''cause your fancy engine has a bit more range,¡± she said sternly. ¡°The Unstable Regions are called that for a reason, genius! It ain''t exactly a hot vacation spot!¡± Her mocking tone shifted to one of worry. ¡°No one''s ever gone past them and come back to brag about it.¡± ¡°Lieutenant Agozi''s assertion is accurate,¡± Kaz said. ¡°Even with a threefold increase in range, the density of cosmic hazards present within the region remains exceedingly prohibitive.¡± Agozi¡¯s whiskers jerked nervously. ¡°Not exactly how I pictured my grand finale,¡± Agozi said with a hint of fear in her voice. ¡°Agreed,¡± Kaz seconded. A moment stood. Just as Agozi prepared to speak up, Snikers abruptly shared his next piece of startling news. ¡°The newly developed drive boasts an effective warp range of fifty sectors.¡± The statement left Kaz and Agozi momentarily speechless, their whiskers twitching and eyes widening in disbelief. ¡°Fifty sectors?!¡± Agozi blurted out in stunned disbelief. Most ships could only warp two sectors, hopping over to their nearest neighbors. The fancy drives could make it four sectors, and Minboa''s top-of-the-line drive could push five. But if Snikers wasn''t blowing smoke, this experimental drive had a range that was off the charts¡ªover ten times that. It was mind-boggling. Disbelief marked Agozi''s snout, showing her struggle to believe. ¡°No¡­I¡¯m sorry, but this is just crazy talk,¡± she said as her whiskers twitched hectically. ¡°Even the top-notch drives can only warp like five sectors, tops. To boost the range that much, you''d need¡ª¡± ¡°The collective efforts of the galaxy''s most brilliant minds and limitless resources?¡± Snikers''s snout curled into a smug expression. ¡°There is a reason why the Council deems it necessary to safeguard its investment.¡± A moment stood. ¡°Do either of you have any further questions before we proceed?¡± Snikers asked eventually. ¡°Like twelve,¡± Agozi replied. ¡°Scratch that. More like a hundred.¡± A trace of amusement, however faint, emerged on Snikers''s face. ¡°I fear time is not on our side to entertain a hundred questions, my dear.¡± ¡°Alright then, I have only one question in that case¡­¡± Accusation crept into Agozi¡¯s tone. ¡°How the heck do you plan on protecting us from slipspace sickness during such a long journey?!¡± The dimension of slipspace still remained a big question mark, even after centuries of poking and prodding. Hang out there too long and you''d get hit with slipspace sickness¡ªeverything from headaches and puking to strokes that could kill you. Short hops were safe enough, but long hauls were a no-go, and the dangers of slipspace kept it from getting a closer look. ¡°Fear not, my naive progeny,¡± Snikers replied reassuringly. ¡°This novel drive is not merely potent, but remarkably expeditious. Indeed, our estimations suggest that the customary voyage shall consume no more time than it would with a conventional mechanism.¡± ¡°Assuming the darn thing actually works and doesn¡¯t kill us.¡± Given that the show-off felt gutsy enough to share a ship¡ªand a fate¡ªwith them, it seemed unlikely. Still, the thought gave Agozi the heebie-jeebies. ¡°What if it malfunctions mid-flight?¡± she asked somewhat anxiously. ¡°Or worse¡­¡± Her ears momentarily dropped and the whiskers twitched nervously. ¡°Keeps us stuck inside slipspace!¡± Snikers brushed her worries aside. ¡°Our esteemed simulation facilities have conducted innumerable virtual trials, each culminating in a triumphant result,¡± he replied smugly. ¡°Your trepidations are baseless.¡± Snikers''s attempts to smooth things over didn''t do much to calm Agozi''s nerves. ¡°Simulations ain''t the real deal,¡± she argued. ¡°There''s always some sneaky little thing the computers miss, a hidden variable.¡± Her whiskers twitched briefly. ¡°Or a thousand of them.¡± Snikers paused briefly, seemingly pondering her words. ¡°Despite your objections, we maintain that any marginal risk remains well within the boundaries of acceptability.¡± A wave of anger washed over Agozi. Her whiskers twitched again, but with significantly more intensity this time. ¡°Acceptable to who, exactly?¡± Book 1: Act 1: Chapter 2: Part IV/Final ¡°Why should we put our necks on the line?¡± Agozi didn¡¯t exactly feel very happy about the surprise mission and had been spending the last five or so miniates arguing back and forth with Snikers. ¡°We''ve never heard a peep about it, so I''m guessin'' you haven''t told the rest of the crew either,¡± she said passive-aggressively. ¡°How will they react when they find out? None signed up for this guff.¡± Snikers took a beat before answering; when he did, his voice came out bossier and more forceful¡ªalmost intimidating, by Pretenti standards. ¡°It is of no consequence, for they shall not be granted the luxury of choice in this matter,¡± he said. ¡°The Council''s desires supersede all trivial matters,¡± Honorary-Lieutenant Snikers said. ¡°You are bound to comply with their wishes, and in turn, with mine." Agozi felt seriously ticked off. But as much as she loathed the whole thing, she had to hand it to Snikers¡ªhe had a point. If the Council wanted it, she couldn''t do much. Their authority was the final word, and she couldn''t buck it. The awkward silence said it all to Snikers. ¡°I am pleased that my sophisticated reasoning is finally understood by both of you.¡± Although Agozi remained silent, her whiskers jerked continuously, signaling her discontent. ¡°When shall we embark?¡± Kaz asked eventually. ¡°I can''t believe we''re actually buying into this load of yibberish!¡± ¡°It is not within our jurisdiction to defy the Council''s decision.¡± ¡°So we''re just rolling with this?¡± Agozi asked, her tone drenched in irritation and disbelief. ¡°Just like that?¡± ¡°That is the case." Kaz looked at Snikers. ¡°When shall we embark?¡± ¡°As soon as you are prepared, my esteemed Captain,¡± Snikers said. ¡°All arrangements have been made, as I have no intention of squandering valuable time on trivial matters.¡± Kaz gestured to indicate he understood. ¡°We should start preparations, then.¡± ¡°Excellent!¡± Snikers said joyfully. ¡°I¡¯m glad we¡¯re both on the same page now.¡± Agozi wasn''t thrilled about it, but she knew kicking up a fuss wouldn''t get her far. ¡°What am I to tell the crew regarding the new mission parameters?¡± Kaz asked. ¡°Once we are no longer within communicator range, you will have permission to educate the crew about their new assignment. Before that time, they are to be updated on a need-to-know bases exclusively.¡± ¡°They won¡¯t like this.¡± ¡°Not pertinent that is.¡± They glared at the smug alien skunk, as full of itself as any Pretenti they''d ever crossed paths with, though they hadn''t met many and preferred to keep it that way. Sure, the Pretenti had a big seat at the Union table, like the rest of the Big Four, but they weren''t exactly crowd favorites. Most Mevik didn''t care for them. Kaz ambled towards a nearby communicator. He picked it up and spoke into it. ¡°This is the captain speaking. Our mission parameters have changed. We¡¯ll leave within the hour.¡± He turned the communicator off and looked at Snikers. ¡°Anything else?¡± ¡°No, my dear Captain,¡± Snikers replied. ¡°That would be quite satisfactory for the moment in time.¡± ¡°Then we have other matters to attend.¡± Just as they prepared to leave, Agozi noticed an armed guard near the bridge entrance and halted abruptly. ¡°Wait!¡± A tad uneasy, she spun around to face Snikers once more. ¡°There¡¯s still one other thing¡­¡± This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it ¡°Which would be?¡± Her whiskers quivered nervously and her ears betrayed her worry. ¡°There was this armed force that passed us while on our way to the hangar,¡± she said. ¡°They carried enough deadly force to bring down half an ecosystem¡­¡± Her tone became increasingly edgy. ¡°What the heck for?¡± The idea of carrying a lethal weapon unsettled Agozi deeply. Despite her Mevik roots, she wasn''t one for violence. Most sentient beings felt the same, with even the Mevik who could stomach it doing so reluctantly. Snikers didn''t seem to give a hoot. ¡°We have invested incalculable resources,¡± he replied with indifference. ¡°We might as well if it means safeguarding our investment.¡± ¡°Safeguard it from what?¡± Agozi asked, growing more and more fed up with the whole thing. ¡°What exactly are you expecting us to find out there?¡± ¡°Opportunity and endless riches.¡± ¡°If you''re just expecting to find that, why the heavy-duty security?¡± Snikers''s nose gave a slight twitch, clearly irked by Agozi''s repeated questioning of the mission. ¡°You are overthinking this,¡± he replied dismissively. ¡°This is but one of those trivial expenses one might as well toss in with the rest. That is all there is to it.¡± Agozi¡¯s whiskers jerked angrily. ¡°Trivial to your bloated bank account maybe, but what about the cost in morale?¡± she asked, clearly offended by his lack of empathy. ¡°All these slugthrowers will make the crew anxious. You never thought about that?¡± For the first time, Snikers looked like he''d been thrown off his game, almost embarrassed. But the unusual moment was fleeting. His usual smugness snapped back in no time. ¡°Some within the boardroom did indeed express similar sentiment.¡± Agozi felt a moment of relief. Apparently, not everyone in Snikers''s shady political circle was as heartless as him. ¡°It was concluded that the crew¡¯s morale does not constitute a priority concern.¡± Agozi''s ears sagged, her whole stance echoing her profound disappointment. ***** Agozi walked into the Cantina, certain to find Kaz drinking there. It didn''t take long before she spotted him. Kaz peered into his empty glass. ¡°Waiter!¡± he barked. ¡°Another one of these!¡± A Mevik bartender holding a bottle of Drakar approached him and poured some into his glass. ¡°Thanks for that,¡± Kaz said. ¡°Put it on the Council''s tab." They''d been in slipspace for several days. So far, the experimental drive hadn''t thrown any curveballs. As expected, the sudden departure announcement had thrown the crew for a loop, and it didn''t take long for worried whispers to spread through the ship. Uncertainty was a morale drainer. They both knew this didn''t paint them in a good light, but they were stuck, unable to do anything about it. The sight of Kaz''s drunken state repelled Agozi, but she reminded herself of his predicament. The moment they''d undocked, worried messages from anxious crewmembers started flooding his inbox. His vow of secrecy meant he had to leave most of them hanging. It made him look like a jerk, and he knew it. Approaching him unnoticed from behind, Agozi touched his shoulder. ¡°Having a party?¡± Kaz put the glass down. ¡°Agozi?!¡± he exclaimed after peeking behind his shoulder to see who had touched him. ¡°You¡­uh¡­s-startled me.¡± Agozi¡¯s whiskers fluttered with amusement. But her amusement faded quickly upon seeing how many empty glasses he¡¯d racked up. ¡°You sure seem to be enjoying yourself¡­¡± she remarked backhandedly. Kaz¡¯s whiskers jerked with embarrassment. ¡°After the crapola the Council just pulled on us, I don¡¯t think poking a few holes into their over-inflated budget will cost them any¡­¡± Clearly drunk, he raised his glass and began swirling its contents. Agozi¡¯s expression grew concerned. ¡°Don¡¯t you think you¡¯re perhaps going a bit overboard with this?¡± she asked. ¡°I¡¯ve noticed you¡¯ve been drinking a lot lately. And it worries me.¡± Kaz¡¯s whiskers fluttered. ¡°All I¡¯m w-worried about right now is if that jokester Snikers bothered to stockpile enough of this swill for it to last the entire journey!¡± he replied in drunken state. ¡°Wouldn¡¯t surprise me if he hadn¡¯t! It would be par for the course for him to find a yet another way to humiliate us!¡± ¡°Yea, but you see that¡¯s exactly what I¡¯m talking about¡­¡± Her whiskers twitched worryingly. ¡°Come on, don¡¯t be so downcast.¡± At her touch, Kaz''s whiskers twitched, and his lips formed an annoyed frown. ¡°I¡¯m not downcast,¡± he replied irately. ¡°I¡¯m annoyed.¡± Agozi¡¯s whiskers now jerked as well. ¡°And you think I¡¯m not?¡± she replied. ¡°Everyone¡¯s annoyed! Annoyed and anxious! You can thank that Snikers character for that.¡± Kaz grumbled something under his breath. ¡°I still can¡¯t make sense of the Council¡¯s motives.¡± ¡°You heard what Snikers said,¡± Agozi said. ¡°They want us to test this fancy drive of theirs without anybody knowing about it. I don¡¯t like it either, but it¡¯s not like we can do anything about it.¡± A moment stood. ¡°I¡¯ve picked up some food from the recreation center,¡± Agozi said eventually. ¡°Just let me accompany you back to our quarters and¡ª" Unexpectedly, Kaz¡¯s communicator started buzzing like crazy. ¡°W-Who the heck might this be?¡± Kaz mumbled, whilst reaching into his vest drunkenly in search of his communicator. "T-This is the captain." It was Bridge-Commander Teflar. ¡°Captain, your presence is urgently required at the bridge!¡± ¡°At this hour?¡± Kaz asked, before a minor hiccup awkwardly escaped his throat. ¡°C-Can¡¯t it wait? This really isn¡¯t the best time. What could be s-so important?¡± ¡°You¡¯ll know it when you see it,¡± Teflar replied. ¡°Please! It is urgent.¡± Kaz¡¯s whiskers twitched. ¡°A-Alright,¡± he replied. ¡°We¡¯ll be there.¡± He turned the communicator off. Kaz''s confusion mirrored on Agozi''s face, causing her to look equally concerned. ¡°What was that all about?¡± ¡°Teflar has requested our presence¡­my presence¡­our¡­o-our p-presence...¡± Kaz struggled to string together a coherent sentence. ¡°Like right away?¡± ¡°Y-Yes.¡± "I''m coming with you." Agozi observed as her drunk captain awkwardly attempted to get off his chair. "Need to come with you more like it¡­¡± Book 1: Act 1: Chapter 3: Part I ¡°W-What precisely is the matter?¡± Agozi supported Kaz, steadying him as they entered the bridge together. ¡°W-Why do you all appear to be engaging in such f-f-frenzied activity?¡± Kaz asked, before letting out a minor hiccup. On their arrival, Bridge-Commander Teflar rushed to them. ¡°There¡¯s something very urgent that we need you to see.¡± Leading them to the primary navigation computer, Teflar pinpointed a specific location on the screen. ¡°Look at this!¡± Kaz attempted to focus on the monitor, his drunken state apparent despite his efforts. ¡°W-What precisely am I meant to observe here?¡± ¡°Recent readings from sector T-Eight-Seven.¡± ¡°W-What¡¯s the significance?¡± ¡°We may have found something,¡± Teflar replied. ¡°Something none could have anticipated.¡± ¡°And that would be...?¡± ¡°When the scanner screw first discovered it, they were so astonished they had to double and then later triple check the readings,¡± Teflar said. ¡°They are now positive they are legitimate.¡± ¡°¡­and?¡± Observing Kaz''s unsteadiness, Teflar eyed him cautiously. ¡°If I may so ask¡­is not all well?¡± he asked Agozi. Agozi played it cool. ¡°Oh, he''s totally fine!¡± she replied. ¡°We were just heading to bed before you called us over. It''s been a crazy long day, and he''s barely slept.¡± In reality, Kaz had clearly hit the bottle too hard. He''d been drinking during his time off, and the unexpected call had taken him by surprise. Teflar shot a disapproving glance at Kaz. ¡°I see.¡± ¡°No big deal,¡± Agozi said. ¡°Just tell me what you''ve found.¡± Teflar got the hint and didn''t pry any further about Kaz''s shaky state. ¡°The scanners have detected an unidentified object of sentient origin¡­¡± His whiskers twitched anxiously. ¡°Readings show a high probability of it being another ship.¡± With her eyes wide and whiskers trembling intensely, Agozi took a moment to recover from the shock. ¡°A ship?¡± she asked, her voice full of genuine disbelief. ¡°Right in the middle of the Unstable Regions?!¡± Teflar¡¯s whiskers twitched again. ¡°We also thought it impossible,¡± he replied. ¡°But the readings don¡¯t lie. They clearly hint at a sentient made object. It¡¯s not large enough to be a station which rules out any other possibility.¡± A moment stood. ¡°When did the scanners first pick the signal up?¡± Agozi asked eventually. ¡°Only a few hours ago,¡± Teflar replied. ¡°A scanner technician came across the signal by accident. It was faint enough to miss. We initially dismissed it as an error, but following subsequent reanalysis work, we¡¯re certain the readings are valid.¡± Agozi mulled over Teflar¡¯s words. ¡°Is their ship within communicator range?¡± Teflar¡¯s whiskers fluttered. The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. ¡°The readings¡­¡± His tone became somber. ¡°Hint at the ship not being in motion. We believe it to be a wreckage of some kind.¡± Agozi¡¯s whiskers twitched and her eyes widened. ¡°You mean¡ª¡± ¡°There¡¯s a high probability the crew has been lost,¡± Teflar said, his tone somber. ¡°Unfortunately, that seems like the most likely possibility.¡± Agozi''s expression grew somber, her ears wilting. She wasn''t alone. Everyone within earshot froze. The shock on their faces, and the twitching whiskers of the Mevik who heard, laid bare their emotional response to the grim news. Not knowing anything about this supposed ship, or those lost on it, could only soften the blow of such a massive tragedy so much. Once the emotional moment subsided, Teflar resumed his explanation. ¡°What remains of the wreckage continues to emit an energy signature albeit just barely,¡± he said. ¡°It¡¯s how we found it.¡± Though still drunk, Kaz attempted to expel the stuttering from his voice. ¡°C-Could this ship belong to someone who had the same bright idea we did coming here?¡± he asked. ¡°Someone else testing their own version of the drive? A rival corporation¡­maybe¡­?¡± Honorary-Lieutenant Snikers, now also on the bridge, sneered at the proposition. ¡°To the best of our knowledge, which I assure you is rivaled by none other, no competing entity is even remotely close to having a functioning prototype.¡± Agozi¡¯s whiskers jerked in annoyance. ¡°Says you and your ego.¡± ¡°Says the trillion-credit budget we used to build it,¡± Snikers replied sneeringly. ¡°Do not belittle the immeasurable resources it took to get us where we are now. The idea of someone else getting here before we could¡­is simply preposterous!¡± ¡°We can confirm the ship does not belong to any known government or corporate entity,¡± Teflar said. ¡°The scanners are experimental,¡± Kaz said. ¡°Snikers said so himself. The readings might be bogus.¡± ¡°Unlikely,¡± Teflar said. ¡°The data is too specific. All evidence points at this being the wreckage of a destroyed ship.¡± A moment stood. "What if it''s from someone else?" Agozi asked eventually. "Like a civilization we haven''t met yet?" Unintentionally, her words got Snikers all fired up. ¡°Another civilization¡­¡± His grin got huge, almost creepy. Agozi could only guess what was going through his head, but she bet it was something self-serving. "This is now far beyond a mere trial-run, my dear fellows!" Snikers said. "We stand on the precipice of making history!" Agozi just rolled her eyes. "Imagine the boundless opportunities that first-contact shall bring!" Snikers said exuberantly. "Not only will we be the foremost sentients to conquer the outer regions, but we shall also be the precursors in establishing diplomatic relations with whomever resides there." His face contorted further into a gleeful grin. "And, naturally, with diplomacy comes the prospect of trade!" He cast a swift glance at Kaz, causing the latter to flinch involuntarily. ¡°Kaz, my boy¡­you cannot even begin to fathom the significance of this discovery!¡± His lips quivered with excitement. Kaz, on the other hand, didn''t look too pleased. He shook off the slurring in his speech. "I¡¯m not a boy," he said irately. "And while I regret having to dampen your aspirations, we possess no information regarding this alleged alien vessel. It may not even be a ship, or amount to anything significant at all." Kaz''s comments didn''t dampen Snikers''s excitement. "Utterly preposterous," he said dismissively. "This is undeniably a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity ripe for exploitation!" Agozi¡¯s whiskers flickered in disgust. Begets exploitation? "I hereby decree that our current mission parameters be altered forthwith," Snikers said. "We shall set our course for the location of this alleged alien wreckage." Snikers blowing off Kaz''s authority seemed to get under his fur. "That determination falls within my purview." "On the contrary," Snikers replied, "As the council''s esteemed commissioner, I possess the authority to override decisions." "Your authority is limited to situations related to our mission of evaluating the new equipment," Kaz asserted. "You hold no sway beyond that scope." As they bickered, Agozi mulled over the implications of first-contact. The Pretenti were the original inventors of slipspace technology, unlocking the door to interstellar travel. In the centuries that followed, they crossed paths with a multitude of other races, including the Mevik, Prol, and more. The last time the Union discovered an advanced race was when they encountered the Langa, a progressive society that had already blossomed into a prosperous civilization. Despite outsmarting the Pretenti, the Langa''s natural risk-avoidance had kept them from venturing into space at the time. It took some diplomatic nudging from the Pretenti to show them the upside of stepping out of their home system. That was centuries back. If it turned out to be true, stumbling upon another advanced race after all this time would be a game-changer. Agozi''s whiskers fluttered, her curiosity now piqued. "We gotta check this out.¡± "The responsibility of decision-making lies with me." ¡°But what if he''s onto something?¡± Agozi countered, whiskers jerking again. "We can''t just ignore the chance of making first-contact with another race, especially if it¡¯s spacefaring." ¡°Heed the sagacious words of your lieutenant!¡± Agozi¡¯s whiskers fluttered in lukewarm amusement. A compliment from Snikers? I never would¡¯ve thought. Kaz mulled over their words. ¡°Altering our course now, only to potentially find nothing of significance, would result in a considerable waste of time and resources,¡± he said. ¡°All for naught.¡± ¡°The scanners are experimental, like you said,¡± Agozi said. ¡°So¡­it''s our job to test them out! That''s why we''re here.¡± ¡°She is correct,¡± Snikers said. ¡°As such, my overwriting powers are very much still in effect! I hereby order we investigate this matter immediately.¡± Kaz sighed. ¡°Very well.¡± He cast a glance at a nearby navigation specialist. ¡°Disengage the ship from slipspace and reconfigure the navigational systems.¡± ¡°A most excellent decision!¡± ¡°That remains to be determined.¡± ¡°There¡¯s no need for doubt, Captain,¡± Snikers said. ¡°I assure you that you¡¯ve done the right thing! The history books will speak highly of you.¡± Kaz lapsed into a momentary quietude. ¡°I¡¯m certain.¡± Book 1: Act 1: Chapter 3: Part II They left the bridge and headed left down the corridor. Agozi''s eyes lit up as she glanced at Kaz. ¡°Can you believe it?¡± she asked, her voice teeming with excitement. ¡°An alien spaceship!¡± Kaz raised an eyebrow at her excitement. ¡°What¡¯s so extraordinary about an alien vessel?¡± he asked without looking at her. ¡°The Minboa was engineered by the Prol. We¡¯re within one at this very moment.¡± Agozi sighed, slightly bemused. ¡°You know what I mean!¡± she said, visibly irritated by Kaz''s lack of enthusiasm. ¡°I mean alien as in something unknown to us.¡± Kaz remained tranquil. ¡°We¡¯re explorers,¡± he replied. ¡°Confronting the unknown is our duty. It''s just another hurdle to navigate.¡± Agozi¡¯s whiskers jerked irately. ¡°This is totally different!¡± she said whilst expressing her frustration using a Mevik hand sign. ¡°I don''t get why you''re so determined to downplay this.¡± Granted, Kaz was probably still ticked off at the Council for letting that insufferable Snikers meddle with his authority, but it felt off for him to let that chip away at his usual professional demeanor. ¡°Do you have any idea how long it''s been since we''ve come across another spacefaring civilization?¡± Agozi asked earnestly. ¡°Long.¡± ¡°More than just long.¡± Agozi stopped suddenly, causing Kaz to halt too, and looked at him with eyes gleaming in anticipation. ¡°Kaz¡­don''t you understand what this could mean?¡± Kaz¡¯s whiskers flickered. ¡°Educate me.¡± ¡°Much as I dislike that Snikers character, he might actually be onto something,¡± Agozi said. ¡°We really could be standing on the edges of something important, something major that¡ª" ¡°Now you¡¯re sounding just like Snikers.¡± Agozi''s whiskers twitched sharply, her face settling into a deep frown of displeasure. ¡°I''m nothing like that goof!¡± Her irritation quickly shifted back to excitement. ¡°But still, I mean, aren¡¯t you just a bit thrilled?¡± Kaz''s face didn''t exactly light up with excitement; he looked more dialed in than anything. ¡°My purpose here is not to seek excitement,¡± he replied brusquely. ¡°I¡¯m here to fulfill my responsibility by expanding Union Space.¡± Agozi''s whiskers fluttered. ¡°Why not both?¡± For once, Kaz showed a reaction, and it wasn''t a happy one. The twitch of his whiskers, the tilt of his snout, and the flick of his ears all screamed annoyed. ¡°If the situation is as critical as you suggest then there isn¡¯t much room for adventure,¡± he replied. ¡°We¡¯re here to accomplish a task. Do not lose sight of that.¡± Agozi gave Kaz a frustrated look due to his indifferent attitude. ¡°I haven''t forgotten anything,¡± she replied. ¡°I just don''t get how the chance of going down in Union history isn''t sparking any reaction from you.¡± ¡°Why would it?¡± Agozi''s whiskers twitched in surprise at the question. ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t it?!¡± ¡°Snikers insists none has constructed their own prototype warper,¡± Kaz said. ¡°This removes the possibility of it being another ship.¡± ¡°Not if it belongs to someone else.¡± ¡°Like whom?¡± Kaz paused briefly. ¡°Let¡¯s be logical about this. The Unstable regions are called that because nothing survives out here.¡± ¡°And yet here we are.¡± ¡°We''ve been provisioned with advanced technology that remains exclusive to us,¡± Kaz reminded her. ¡°Nobody beyond our organization has access to it.¡± ¡°Nobody that we know about.¡± Kaz paused before responding. The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. ¡°Teflar was just doing his job using the data available,¡± Kaz said eventually. ¡°Data provided by experimental equipment that has yet to prove itself.¡± ¡°And if it is reliable?¡± Kaz said nothing. ¡°Exactly my point.¡± ***** The Minboa took several days to move beyond the communication range, during which Kaz was granted permission to reveal the mission''s primary objective to the crew, apart from details pertaining to the alien wreckage. Crew reactions varied, ranging from enthusiasm to despondency. Some voiced their displeasure at the delayed revelation, while a minority remained neutral. While most of the crew were untroubled by the change in plans, there was a significant surge in the request for psychiatric support despite this. The doctors were compelled to extend their working hours. Xeno-Psychiatrist Lana expressed her discontentment; however, Kaz only superficially acknowledged her concerns, much to her disappointment. ***** ¡°Exactly how much more of our time will this consume?¡± Kaz asked the navigational specialist, his voice and stance dripping with impatience. ¡°The new experimental navigation computers are the cause,¡± the navigational specialist replied. ¡°They offer increased precision, but the calculations require a longer duration.¡± All the top brass had assembled on the bridge, gearing up for the exit from slipspace. The big reveal was coming. Soon enough, they''d see who had called it right and who''d missed the mark. Everyone stared intently at the viewport. Not that there was a grand spectacle to behold. Sure, slipspace made galaxy-hopping possible, but visually? A total snooze-fest. At least in regular space, you''d get the odd cosmic quirk to break up the monotony. The navigation expert looked up from his monitor to speak to Kaz again. ¡°We are prepared to exit slipspace.¡± Kaz didn¡¯t hesitate. ¡°Proceed.¡± As the ship exited slipspace, everyone felt a wave of anticipation. As they emerged into real space, the massive wreckage of the alien ship filled the viewport, visible to all on the bridge. Agozi looked at Kaz. ¡°Told ya.¡± Honorary-Lieutenant Snikers could not help but partake in the smugness. ¡°Indeed,¡± he said. ¡°And were it not for my superior judgment, we would have missed what is clearly a discovery of incalculable dimensions. Truly, this is a historic moment to be celebrated and remembered!¡± Kaz chose to ignore the smug comments and simply focused on the scanner team. ¡°Can you verify that the wreckage is indeed of extraterrestrial origin?¡± ¡°Uh, maybe just check out this massive thing outside?¡± Agozi said with a hint of sarcasm, pointing to the images on the viewport. ¡°We can confirm the object is a ship,¡± the scanner operator said. ¡°However, determining its origin is more challenging due to the extensive damage on its exterior.¡± ¡°To what extent is the damage?¡± Kaz asked. ¡°The vessel has been rendered entirely inoperable,¡± the operator replied. ¡°This complicates in-depth analysis. Deployment of an engineering team will be necessary for further examination.¡± Kaz looked at Bridge-Commander Teflar. ¡°Please inform Master-Engineer Kesto that his presence is required.¡± ¡°Will do.¡± Master-Engineer Kesto made his appearance shortly thereafter. ¡°Request my service, did you?¡± the short mole-esque creature asked in its thick, gravelly Prol accent. Kaz gestured in the direction of the viewport. Kesto almost dropped his toolkit when he saw the images on the viewport. ¡°Heaven!¡± he exclaimed. ¡°Is what looks to be?¡± Kaz¡¯s whiskers twitched. ¡°Feel free to tell us once you¡¯re inside.¡± ***** The airlock emitted a resonant depressurizing sound as it opened, and Master-Engineer Kesto''s team began their spacewalk, taking positions outside the ship. Cameras on their suits sent live video to the ship, where Kaz and the crew watched from the bridge. ¡°All affirm their communicators working are?¡± Master-Engineer Kesto asked the team via his communicator. Everyone confirmed their readiness. ¡°Wreckage seven clicks away from current position.¡± They couldn''t bring the ship closer to the wreckage due to collision risks, so Kesto''s team had to inspect the wreckage up close. As they neared, they encountered dangerous debris. ¡°Mindful,¡± Kesto cautioned. ¡°Suit rupture potentially fatal.¡± ¡°Noted,¡± replied a team member. They carefully moved past the scattered wreckage until they got to the main site. ¡°Pinpoint point of entry, anyone?¡± Kesto asked. ¡°Cannot see.¡± ¡°Nothing.¡± After some contemplation, Kesto issued an order. ¡°Split team,¡± he said. ¡°Scout Y and X axis respectively.¡± The exploration party divided into groups. In time, one of the engineers accompanying Xeno-Biologist Okens identified an airlock. ¡°Here!¡± The team regrouped at his location. Two engineers positioned themselves before the airlock, while Kesto observed nearby and provided instructions. ¡°Activate laser torches.¡± The engineers commenced the laborious task of cutting the airlock open. Surprisingly, they encountered unexpected difficulty, and frustration began to surface. ¡°Strangely durable.¡± ¡°More than strange.¡± ¡°Torches fully powered?¡± ¡°Torches operating at full capacity.¡± ¡°Should¡¯ve brought plasma torches?¡± ¡°Make do with what we have.¡± They kept going, but it was pointless. Their laser tools weren''t cutting it. Kesto sent an engineer back for better tools. When the engineer returned, work continued. ¡°More effective.¡± ¡°Indeed.¡± Though plasma torches weren''t uncommon, their use was typically reserved for special cases. That a basic airlock resisted the lasers baffled the team. Once the cutting finished, the airlock buckled and fell inward. The team entered the opening one by one. Once all were inside, Kesto communicated with Kaz through the embedded suit communicator. ¡°See all this?¡± Kaz monitored the ongoing situation from the bridge, viewing the real-time feed from Kesto''s suit on a large screen. ¡°We have a clear visual,¡± he replied. ¡°Exercise caution, the stability of the wreckage remains uncertain.¡± ¡°Acknowledged.¡± The team ventured deeper inside. They journeyed through the ship''s passageways, taking it slow and filming any notable sights along the way. An engineer commented on the ship''s stark architectural style. ¡°Function over form.¡± Kesto surveyed his surroundings. Indeed, the utilitarian design appeared inelegant. The rudimentary steel corridor walls seemed hastily assembled and devoid of artistic flair. This starkly contrasted with most Union designs, which heavily utilized smooth curves and bevels for aesthetic purposes. The team kept exploring the ship. Suddenly, one of the Xeno-Biologists froze in place. This prompted the others to halt as well. Okens addressed the unnerved biologist. ¡°Something of interest?¡± The startled biologist offered no response. ¡°Come!¡± he replied eventually. ¡°Must see!¡± There had been a palpable level of disconcert in his voice. The others converged at his location. ¡°Discovered what?¡± Okens asked. The biologist pointed at the lifeless body. Book 1: Act 1: Chapter 3: Part III/Final The alien entity rested against the corridor wall, its head hanging limply from its neck. A helmet obscured the face from view, but the uniform adorning the rest of its body provided a general sense of its profile. A team member remarked on its substantial size. ¡°Colossal.¡± ¡°True,¡± echoed another. Without seeing it outside of its suit, they could only guess its true appearance, but even a quick look showed it was bigger than the Mevik by quite a bit. They grasped it by the forearms and pulled it away from the wall. The body now lay in a T-shaped position in the middle of the corridor. After laying the body flat, they began commenting on its size again. ¡°Large.¡± ¡°Suit an exoskeleton, perhaps?¡± The chatter went on until Okens redirected everyone back to their task. ¡°Enough.¡± He knelt next to the body and set about removing the helmet. It was evident from the state of the skeleton inside that the ship had met its end some time ago. After a cursory glance at the frail skull, he carefully returned the helmet. ¡°Safe to conclude survivors unlikely.¡± ***** Those tuned into the live-stream on Minboa''s bridge showed their feelings in subtle ways. A lot of the Mevik watching shifted just so slightly, their postures giving away their emotions. Agozi wasn''t immune to the feels, but she always thought of herself as being a bit more rugged. But this? This was a lot to take in. Her eyes stayed glued to the screen, whiskers and fingers alike betraying her unease with tiny, nervous movements. ***** The team eventually found itself inside a large mess hall. The area exhibited significant damage with entire sections of the hull missing, exposing the interior to the cold vacuum of space. The artificial gravity had ceased to function with dozens of mutilated alien bodies and severed limbs floating throughout the hall. Splattered and frozen red blood coated the remnants of the area, creating a nightmarish scene. Even with the team''s comprehensive psychological coaching, the stark circumstances were beginning to affect the mental resilience of some team members. ¡°By the heavens!¡± exclaimed one of them. ***** The bridge went from quiet observation to audible shock. A few even looked like they might lose their lunch, with several turning their heads. Agozi kept her focus albeit slightly wide-eyed, but the nasty feeling in her gut told her she wasn''t unaffected. ¡°What do you think may have caused this?¡± Kaz asked Kesto through his communicator. ¡°Many possible causes,¡± Kesto replied. ¡°Reactor failure, possibly. Or a miner this is and charges went off by accident did.¡± ¡°So many deaths!¡± exclaimed one of the Mevik security guards present, causing Agozi and some others to give him a quick look. ¡°Let''s not focus on that,¡± Kaz said sternly after seeing everyone''s upset faces. His attention returned to the live-stream. ¡°Proceed further.¡± The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. ***** Eventually, they stumbled upon the bridge entrance, but it remained securely shut behind a massive blast door. ¡°Locked shut,¡± Kesto said. ¡°We¡¯ll have to wield it open.¡± ¡°Strange they¡¯d opt to install a blast door here,¡± one of the engineers on the team remarked. ¡°Protect against fire or radiation, perhaps?¡± suggested another. ¡°Waste time speculating shouldn''t,¡± Kesto said. The engineers lit their torches and began cutting the door open. As they were cutting, a loud alarm went off and red lights began flashing everywhere, surprising the team. The engineers stumbled away from the door in a state of panic with their torches still ignited, just narrowly avoiding injury to themselves in the process. The alarm deactivated shortly thereafter, and the lighting normalized. ¡°What just happened?!¡± one of the startled engineers asked. ¡°Do not know,¡± Kesto replied. ¡°But no longer active.¡± ¡°System functionality surprisingly sturdy despite damage,¡± the other engineer commented. ¡°Clever design.¡± The engineers resumed their task with renewed determination. Finally, the blast door opened, unveiling the interior. On reaching the bridge, the team scoured the area for anything of interest. They observed that the navigational controls bore a striking resemblance to those aboard the Minboa¡ªa predictable similarity, considering the universality of slipspace travel principles. However, some unfamiliar equipment eluded their understanding. Their ultimate goal was to access the mainframe, confident that it held the key to unraveling the enigma of the ship''s tragic end. ¡°Here!¡± Kesto announced to the others, pointing to the mainframe computer that he''d located with relatively minimal effort. He reached into his tool belt and pulled out a data modulator. These devices could hack into most computer systems, even those of unfamiliar races. Understandably, the technology remained tightly regulated by Union authorities. He proceeded to insert the device. ¡°Linkup established, transferring data.¡± As the transfer neared competition, a violent tremor rocked the ship. It lasted only briefly, and the tremors soon faded. ***** ¡°Is everyone alright?!¡± Kaz asked via his communicator, alarmed by the unexpected tremor. ¡°What just happened?¡± ¡°Safe we are,¡± Kesto replied. ¡°Structural integrity weaker than assumed. Leave we should.¡± ¡°Have you finished transferring the data from the ship¡¯s mainframe?¡± ¡°True.¡± ¡°Your request is granted,¡± Kaz said. ¡°Return to the Minboa immediately. A more detailed assessment of the wreckage can be undertaken at an appropriate subsequent occasion.¡± Honorary-Lieutenant Snikers appeared discontent with the decision. ¡°I trust you''ll pardon the intrusion, Captain, but...¡± he said whilst taking several steps towards Kaz. ¡°But considering the magnitude of this discovery, it seems inappropriate to end the mission so prematurely. Think about all the lost opportunities for¡ª¡± Snikers flinched when Kaz gave him a swift, pointed look. ¡°Should the wreckage collapse on top of them due to your override of an evacuation directive, to whom do you anticipate the Council will assign culpability?¡± Snikers said nothing. ¡°Such was my assumption,¡± Kaz then said. ***** Kesto disengaged the modulator and returned it to his tool belt. The team began retracing their steps. The tremors intensified as they neared the airlock. Okens narrowly avoided being hit as the ceiling began to crumble. ¡°It¡¯s imploding!¡± he shouted. ¡°Leave immediately!¡± The team hurried to the airlock, trying to stay upright as tremors shook the floor. Okens halted upon noticing the alien body from before. The others raced past him. Realizing Okens had stopped, Kesto halted as well before turning back. Okens remained seemingly transfixed by the alien body. ¡°The wreckage imploding is!¡± Kesto shouted at him. ¡°Must leave!¡± ¡°Help me with the body!¡± Okens shouted back. ¡°Gone mad?¡± Kesto barked back at him. Okens refused to back down. ¡°Help me so leave sooner we may!¡± Each moment wasted arguing lowered their survival expectancy. Kesto cursed him in his mind but ultimately did as Okens requested. They grabbed the body by the forearms and dragged it towards the airlock. The others had already made it out and were anxiously waiting for them. ¡°Where are they?¡± an anxious party member asked. ¡°Stay we cannot!¡± Kesto and Okens stumbled haphazardly out of the airlock just moments later whilst carrying the alien body. ¡°Leave!¡± Kesto barked. They activated their propulsion systems and made haste towards the Minboa. Kesto and Okens used a chain taken from the former''s tool belt to secure the body to themselves, making sure they wouldn''t lose it. The wreckage imploded mere moments later. ***** ¡°Get the medics to the airlock!¡± Agozi barked frantically as she raced towards the airlock along with Kaz. The airlock emitted a hissing sound as it opened. Exhausted both physically and mentally, the expedition party crawled painstakingly out of it. Kaz and Agozi were already there along with a medical team. ¡°Hey, you all doing okay?¡± Agozi hurried to ask the exhausted Master-Engineer Kesto as the latter crawled out of the airlock. ¡°Safe,¡± he replied. ¡°Thanks.¡± ¡°Were you successful in recovering anything of interest besides that salvaged from the mainframe?¡± Kaz asked. ¡°Why not ask Xeno-Biologist Okens...¡± Kesto replied breathlessly. There had been a hint of mockery in his voice, which wasn''t common for a Prol. Everyone looked at Okens. He lay on his back inside the airlock and panted heavily. ¡°I don¡¯t recognize that crew member,¡± Kaz said in regards to the unidentified party, who lay flat inside the airlock. Okens slowly lifted his head to meet Kaz''s gaze. ¡°Not crew member.¡± Book 1: Act 1: Chapter 4: Part I An emergency assembly was convened in the immediate aftermath of the nearly catastrophic foray into the wreckage. The remains retrieved by Xeno-Biologist Okens were transferred to the morgue for subsequent investigation, while Master-Engineer Kesto''s team initiated a thorough analysis of the recorded footage. Each frame underwent rigorous examination, and no detail, regardless of its perceived insignificance, was overlooked. The wreckage incident elicited divergent responses. Agozi''s enthusiasm remained undiminished despite the narrowly averted disaster. Kaz, on the other hand, harbored ambivalent sentiments about the entire predicament. Honorary-Lieutenant Snikers solely focused on the pragmatic aspects of the situation. The most disconcerting repercussion of the incident was the escalating demand for secrecy. Snikers adamantly urged that information regarding the alien wreckage and remains be disseminated solely on a need-to-know basis. Consequently, increasingly stringent security protocols were instituted, much to the chagrin of the crew. The detrimental effects soon became too conspicuous to disregard, and Kaz''s inbox persistently overflowed with grievances from discontented crew members. The mounting number of disheartened individuals seeking psychiatric assistance prompted Xeno-Psychiatrist Zelana to express her own concerns on multiple occasions. Put simply, while the situation on the ship hadn''t fully descended into chaos, preserving the sense of normalcy was becoming increasingly difficult to do. ***** ¡°You called for us?¡± Agozi asked Xeno-Biologist Okens, who''d summoned them down to the morgue. ¡°True,¡± Okens replied. ¡°Follow.¡± Agozi and Kaz trailed Okens through the medical morgue before entering the vivisection room. The alien body''s remains were on a wide operating table. The suit had been removed. Only some decaying flesh and the skeleton were left. Okens pointed at the table. ¡°The alien body.¡± The three approached the table, and Agozi''s eyes widened at the sight of the massive alien carcass. ¡°Whoa!¡± she exclaimed softly, the surprise on her snout palpable. Agozi gave Okens a shocked look. ¡°This is the alien?¡± ¡°True,¡± Okens replied. Agozi shifted her attention back to the pile of bones and studied them closely. Just a glimpse at the withering remains would''ve made anyone understand Agozi''s bafflement. Standing at five-foot-seven, Kaz was like the Mevik version of a skyscraper. Most Mevik could barely hit five feet, but that still put them among the tallest and fittest beings around. That alien skeleton? Way bigger. Agozi glanced back at Okens. ¡°How tall is it?¡± ¡°Skeleton not perfectly preserved,¡± Okens replied. ¡°But if you had to put money on a guess?¡± Okens hesitated. ¡°Six feet three inches.¡± Agozi gazed silently at the carcass. Kaz and Okens noted Agozi''s evident interest in the body and shared a brief, knowing glance. Agozi reached out to the skeleton, almost touching it. It appeared as if she wanted to speak, but no words came out. Then, she pulled her hand back. The sheer size of each part was bonkers. The collarbones might as well have been a gateway, and the ribcage looked like it could''ve been a playground for the young ones. Kaz¡¯s whiskers flickered. ¡°It does indeed appear quite substantial.¡± ¡°Talk about playing it down!¡± Agozi blurted, staring in disbelief. ¡°I know athletes whose legs look like toothpicks next to that monster''s humerus!¡± Kaz''s whiskers twitched briefly as his gaze settled on the thick forearm bones, eventually focusing on its hand. ¡°Even the palm and fingers appear to be of considerable size.¡± The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. Kaz''s comment made Agozi look at the hand too. She went wide-eyed when she saw the number of digits. ¡°No way!¡± she exclaimed, whiskers flickering hectically for a moment. ¡°It''s got five digits!¡± ¡°True,¡± Okens replied. ¡°Curious.¡± ¡°What is so remarkable about it?¡± Kaz asked. Agozi gave him a somewhat cynical glance. ¡°For someone who''s all about exploring the unknown, you sure don''t seem too interested in getting to know the stuff we might run into out there.¡± Most sentient beings got by with two digits and a thumb. The Mevik and Pretenti were the oddballs with three. ¡°We''re scouts,¡± Kaz replied sternly. ¡°Not zoologists.¡± ¡°Doing your homework doesn''t hurt,¡± Agozi teased, casting a playful glance at Kaz, who chose to ignore it. ¡°Might you elucidate further, given your extensive knowledge on the topic?¡± Kaz asked, sounding genuinely serious. Okens poked the creature''s hand with an examination stick made from white plastic. ¡°Abnormal!¡± ¡°In what sense?¡± Kaz asked. ¡°Five digits versus three or four, what does it matter?¡± ¡°Peculiar evolution,¡± Okens replied. ¡°Trait rendered obsolete by civilization. Natural selection should have selected it not.¡± The agricultural revolution had turned brute strength into a relic. With fertile grounds everywhere, who needs to plow? Rich soils meant less plowing, more planting. Given that most sentient beings were relatively short, extracting stuff from the dirt posed little challenge to them. But evolution has its wildcards. The Mevik''s carnivorous roots gave them more bulk than most, a quirk that many races found a tad unsettling. But that same bulk made them prime picks for the Exploration Division. But judging by the specimen sprawled out on that table, it looked like the Mevik might not be the toughest players in the game. Okens quickly turned and went to a nearby terminal, adjusting its controls. A screen close by turned on. Okens showed them X-ray images of the alien skeleton. ¡°Look.¡± Kaz and Agozi studied the images, but couldn''t understand Okens'' intent. They eventually sought clarification from him. ¡°Not hollow,¡± Okens said. Agozi hesitated before responding. ¡°...not hollow?¡± ¡°True,¡± Okens replied. ¡°Solid.¡± ¡°To what are you referring?¡± Kaz asked. ¡°Bones,¡± Okens replied. ¡°No hollow cavities. Solid.¡± ¡°You intend to convey that the entirety of their bones is of a solid nature?¡± Kaz asked. ¡°True,¡± Okens replied. Kaz and Agozi exchanged a perplexed glance. ¡°What would necessitate such structural integrity in its bones?¡± Kaz asked. ¡°Well, look who''s suddenly playing the zoologist!¡± Agozi quipped. To be fair, anyone with a smidge of knowledge about sentient anatomy would''ve found the concept of a creature with fully solid bones downright bizarre. Okens executed a Prol gesture for bafflement. ¡°Peculiar,¡± he said. ¡°Costly to sustain, limits locomotion. Absurd design.¡± A moment stood. ¡°Maybe the Unstable Regions are the universe''s rough side of town?¡± Agozi suggested eventually. ¡°Our own kin is more arduous for exactly such a reason.¡± Kaz looked at Okens. ¡°Is there a basis of credibility for this suggestion?¡± ¡°Harsher conditions for survival affect species evolution, true.¡± Okens hesitated. ¡°But neither Mevik nor any other made so robust by such conditions.¡± Nobody said anything. Something about the vivisection room felt eerily silent. Agozi moved closer to the table, focusing on the skull. Its empty eye sockets felt like they were looking back at her, making her uncomfortable. She quickly shifted her gaze to Okens. ¡°Alright, it''s beefy, but what about its brain? Is it as smart as it is big?¡± ¡°Living specimen required for such analysis,¡± Okens replied. ¡°But species is spacefaring. Cognitively competent at minimum.¡± ¡°If they''re zipping around space on their own, I''d say they''re way past ''competent'',¡± Agozi said. ¡°The range of their spacecraft and their potential advancement into slipspace traversal is yet to be determined,¡± Kaz pointed out quickly. ¡°Being spacefaring does not inherently denote an ability to expand out of one''s primary celestial system. Thus far, only the Pretenti and Langa have manifested the intellectual faculties essential for this distinction, and the Langa, notably, showcased initial reservations.¡± Another moment stood. Agozi was about to speak again when she realized Okens seemed uneasy. She might not have the knack for reading Prol emotions, but the biologist''s posture betrayed some nerves. ¡°Everything okay over there?¡± she asked, her tone laced with concern. Okens motioned towards the skeleton, prompting both Kaz and Agozi to look at it. ¡°The bones,¡± he said. ¡°Examine.¡± Kaz and Agozi briefly examined the bones again. ¡°I fail to understand,¡± Kaz said. ¡°What are we supposed to see that you haven''t shown us already?¡± ¡°You cannot see?¡± Okens asked, his voice hinting at his nervousness. ¡°See what?¡± Agozi''s patience with Okens'' cryptic chatter started to wear thin, but she tried to keep her composure. ¡°The skull,¡± Okens replied whilst pointing his stick at it. Agozi leaned in to get a better look. There was no denying the skull had its fair share of oddities. The flatness of its nasal bridge was hard to miss. Beneath it, a dominant, wide jaw cradled a set of molars. Above, two recessed eye sockets peered out, and hints of where ears might''ve been sat low on the sides. The back of the skull jutted out in a pronounced manner. They continued to examine the skull and bones for a while longer, but ultimately couldn''t deduce what point Okens was trying to make. ¡°Besides the strangely flat face, I fail to perceive anything of significance,¡± Kaz said eventually. Agozi echoed his sentiment. Okens''s facial expression turned grave, which was unusual compared to the typical neutral face of most Prol. ¡°Primate¡­¡± Okens uttered with a hint of worry. ¡°Primate skeleton.¡± Though Kaz looked none the wiser, Agozi¡¯s whiskers went hectic. ¡°A primate?¡± The disbelief in her voice had been clear. ¡°Cranium structure does not deceive,¡± Okens said. ¡°Primate.¡± Kaz wasn¡¯t big on sarcasm, but his failure to follow along irritated him. ¡°Is this a yet another remarkable finding whose significance has escaped my comprehension?¡± Agozi gave him a puzzled glance. ¡°It shouldn''t even be a thing in the first place...¡± Kaz¡¯s whiskers jerked slightly. ¡°That rotting skeleton appears quite real to me.¡± ¡°Nature should¡¯ve prevented it,¡± Okens said. ¡°Prevented what?¡± Kaz asked. ¡°It¡¯s a bit complicated to explain,¡± Agozi replied. "But the short version is that only some species can evolve sentience due to how their societies are structured." Her unease caused her to pause. "Primates don¡¯t meet the criteria.¡± Her whiskers gave a quick twitch, and her voice took on a mocking edge. ¡°Like none of them.¡± ¡°True,¡± Okens seconded. ¡°Backwards! Primitive! Savage!¡± Okens''s unusually harsh language, not to mention his borderline passive-aggressive tone, prompted a moment of pause from Kaz. ¡°Guess someone napped a bit too much during sociology,¡± Agozi quipped, her voice dripping with playful sarcasm. A moment stood. ¡°Is there any additional pertinent information you wish to convey to us?¡± Kaz asked Okens eventually. ¡°False,¡± Okens replied. ¡°All notable findings shared. Share more in future if discovered.¡± They gave the skeleton one final look. The eerie, decaying heap of bones that shouldn''t have been possible stared right back at them. Even devoid of life, it radiated an unsettling vibe that was hard to pinpoint. Book 1: Act 1: Chapter 4: Part II/Final ¡°Why are these ceilings so terribly low?!¡± The Engineering Sector was a Prol''s haven of narrow corridors, a design choice that Kaz found less than accommodating¡ªand he wasn''t quiet about it. Kaz rubbed his sore forehead. ¡°Most vexing!¡± ¡°The area wasn''t made for Mevik, y''know,¡± Agozi said. ¡°Only Prol work here.¡± Kaz muttered something under his breath. ¡°I acknowledge Prol engineering prowess as much as the next Mevik, but¡ª¡° Kaz smacked his head into a nearby ceiling light. Agozi halted and glanced behind her shoulder to see if Kaz was alright. ¡°You good?¡± ¡°I am... coping,¡± Kaz grumbled irritably. ¡°Would it have been so arduous for them to design this place with just a touch more spaciousness?!¡± Agozi''s whiskers fluttered in amusement. ¡°It''s their culture,¡± she replied, before looking away again. ¡°They prefer tight spaces.¡± ¡°They and absolutely no one else!¡± Agozi''s whiskers fluttered again. ¡°We got a diverse crew for a reason,¡± she said. ¡°Otherwise the Union wouldn''t serve any purpose. You don''t see any Prol strutting around with slugthrowers, right?¡± ¡°No, but in the same vein, you will not find Mevik aimlessly attacking random Prol,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°I, on the other hand, have now been repeatedly accosted by this ceiling!¡± Thankfully, Agozi was the only one around to hear Kaz''s tasteless joke, although it still managed to unsettle her a bit. ***** ¡°Do you see him?¡± Kaz asked Agozi. After a series of uncomfortable bumps on the head, they¡¯d finally found their way to Kesto''s area. Agozi''s eyes roved the area from left to right. Practicality trumped aesthetics in the Prol-designed sector, a stark contrast to the more soothing architecture found elsewhere on the ship. Luckily, the straightforward design of the place compensated for its restricted space. Agozi glimpsed Master-Engineer Kesto situated next to a wall-integrated computer station. ¡°There,¡± she quipped, pointing at Kesto. Kesto''s attention remained riveted to the monitor, engrossed in lines of code that would¡¯ve bewildered most other beings. Beside him was a little stool with a white cup on it. From time to time, Kesto looked away from the screen to take a drink. ¡°Master-Engineer Kesto?¡± Kaz inquired with formality. Kesto flinched upon hearing the voice and turned around abruptly. Though bulkier than the Langa, the Prol were still on the shorter side, making them look almost petite next to the two of them. Still in shock from their unexpected entrance, Kesto looked up at Kaz but didn''t speak. ¡°Made it here successfully?¡± he asked eventually. There had been a notable undercurrent of unease in his voice. Kesto''s obvious nervousness left them both confused. ¡°Something''s wrong?¡± Kaz asked. Kesto said nothing. Realizing their blunder, Agozi''s whiskers twitched in a show of embarrassment. ¡°Whoa, sorry!¡± she said with honest remorse. ¡°Didn''t mean to startle you.¡± It was almost a given that smaller herbivores would instinctively shy away from Mevik. Logical? Maybe not. But it didn''t do the Mevik any favors. Most species generally steered clear of them. ¡°Never mind,¡± Kesto said. ¡°What assistance may offer?¡± ¡°We''re here to review your findings,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°Examined most footage,¡± Kesto said. ¡°Collected debris for analysis.¡± You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author. Agozi''s whiskers vibrated with excitement. ¡°Don''t keep us in suspense, share the details!¡± Kaz wasn''t as into technology as Agozi and showed it by acting impatient. ¡°Just make it concise.¡± Kesto signaled towards a hologram machine in the room''s corner. They went over to it, and he switched it on using built-in buttons. A 3D image of the alien ship appeared above the machine. It slowly spun around and was see-through to show the inside. The hologram depicted the ship as still being intact. ¡°This was its original look?¡± Agozi asked. ¡°True,¡± Kesto replied. ¡°But perfect reconstruction impossible. Approximation.¡± Agozi examined the hologram. To Agozi, the ship seemed pretty standard. Most races followed similar design blueprints, so any deviations were usually chalked up to cultural nuances rather than design disagreements. ¡°Looks like any other ship I¡¯ve ever seen.¡± ¡°Outside, true.¡± Kesto used the projector''s controls to make the image of the middle-top part of the ship bigger. ¡°Inside, false.¡± He increased the transparency to make the interior more visible. ¡°Here!¡± he said, whilst pointing at the relevant area. ¡°Shield generator normally stored there.¡± Agozi leaned in for a better look. ¡°I don¡¯t see any.¡± ¡°True.¡± ¡°What is?¡± ¡°No shield generator.¡± ¡°The shield generator''s in a different spot?¡± ¡°False,¡± Kesto replied. ¡°No shield generator.¡± Agozi¡¯s whiskers flickered. ¡°I¡¯m not sure I get it,¡± she replied. ¡°Did the shields malfunction or¡ª¡± ¡°False,¡± Kesto replied, before she could even finish. ¡°No shields installed. Ship not protected.¡± Agozi took a moment to absorb Kesto''s surprising statement. ¡°How is that possible?¡± Agozi asked, clearly not believing what she was hearing. ¡°It does seem improbable,¡± Kaz seconded. Agozi looked at Kaz as if he''d just said something incredibly obvious. ¡°¡¯Improbable¡¯ doesn¡¯t do justice to how absurd the idea is!¡± Her voice combined a serious tone with a hint of sarcasm. ¡°Unless you fancy being cooked by radiation!¡± ¡°Kesto asserts that the vessel lacked any form of shielding,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°His expertise surpasses yours.¡± ¡°Don''t bet the farm on any one fact,¡± Agozi said, whiskers flickering. ¡°There''s no tech out there that lets you zip around space without shields. Even a grain-sized object could mess you up if it hit you fast enough."¡± ¡°True,¡± Kesto said. ¡°But we certain. Ruptured generators leave lingering trace particles. Know we would.¡± ¡°It might still be intact,¡± Agozi said. ¡°Maybe floating somewhere within the debris.¡± ¡°Energy signature too powerful to go unnoticed would be.¡± They debated the matter a while longer until Kaz interrupted. ¡°You both present valid arguments, but I¡¯m afraid we lack the time to debate this matter further.¡± The argument paused. Kesto picked up a remote, pressed a button, and the hologram switched from the ship to the gathered wreckage. ¡°Analyzed debris,¡± Kesto said. ¡°Postulated theories.¡± Agozi turned her attention to the hologram, looking over the pieces of debris. The floating debris didn''t impress her; it looked like it could''ve been plucked straight from any old junkyard. ¡°That''s just debris,¡± Agozi said, not quite certain what Kesto was trying to show her. ¡°What am I missing?¡± ¡°True but false,¡± Kesto replied. Technical data began to appear alongside the 3D holographic images. ¡°Surface details deceptive,¡± Kesto said. ¡°Not traditional alloys. Density level and abrasion resistance nonstandard.¡± Agozi glanced at the readings. Her whiskers flickered more than slightly on several occasions whilst browsing the data. This alien ship''s hull was no joke¡ªdozens of times denser than steel, nearly invincible to scratches and with absurd temperature tolerances. Kesto looked up at Agozi with an astonished expression. ¡°Understand now?¡± Agozi didn''t answer immediately; she was still trying to process what she had just seen. ¡°That might clear up the shield thing, but now I''ve got a dozen more questions,¡± she replied eventually. ¡°What type of questions?¡± Kaz asked. Agozi¡¯s voice started to show some concern. ¡°Before, I could''ve rattled off a dozen theories for why their ship bit the dust,¡± Agozi replied. ¡°A reactor blowout, engine misfire, or even a rogue asteroid¡­¡± Her tone deepened with growing concern. ¡°But after seeing this mess? Those guesses don''t cut it.¡± ¡°No ship survives direct collisions with asteroids,¡± Kaz said. ¡°Not survive, but with armor this thick, it would''ve held up better,¡± Agozi pointed out. For a good number of minutes, they engaged in a debate about the different scenarios that could¡¯ve led to the ship''s demise. ¡°The likelihood of a catastrophic reactor meltdown appears to be a credible hypothesis,¡± Kaz said. ¡°Particularly if there was a resultant explosion.¡± Agozi took a brief glance at the 3D images, some showing the ship put back together and others showing it before and after it blew up. Calling the ship''s remnants ''in poor shape'' would''ve been a grand understatement. A force of jaw-dropping potency had ripped it to smithereens. Agozi turned her gaze back to Kaz. ¡°Still doesn''t add up to it being blown to bits like this.¡± ¡°What do you think caused it, then?¡± Agozi glanced at the holograms once more, looking worried as she moved her gaze from one image to another. ¡°I''m in the dark here,¡± she replied, whiskers twitching with concern. ¡°And that''s what''s got my whiskers in a twist.¡± ¡°Theories formulated,¡± Kesto said. ¡°Nonconclusive.¡± ¡°Got a clue what made it go bad?¡± Agozi asked, as she turned to look at Kesto. ¡°Nonconclusive,¡± Kesto said again. ¡°Explosive munitions. Substantial quantities. Discovered in surviving cargo bays.¡± ¡°From what I''m seeing, garden-variety explosives wouldn''t be able to make this mess, even from the inside,¡± Agozi said. ¡°Nuclear,¡± Kesto said. ¡°Not conventional.¡± For a moment, nobody spoke. ¡°I¡¯m no engineer, but I¡¯m fairly certain there wouldn¡¯t be anything to examine had somebody detonated a nuclear device inside the ship,¡± Kaz said. ¡°He''s got a point,¡± Agozi said. ¡°A nuke would''ve turned it into stardust.¡± ¡°Merely listing possibilities,¡± Kesto said. ¡°The discovery of explosives suggests the ship might have been engaged in mining activities,¡± Kaz said. ¡°But what was it mining?¡± Agozi asked, her confusion palpable. ¡°There¡¯s no asteroid belts nearby.¡± A moment stood. ¡°These circumstances are most perplexing,¡± Kaz said eventually. They all exchanged concerned glances. ¡°There is something else,¡± Kesto said. ¡°Which is?¡± Kaz asked, whiskers jerking. ¡°The data, obtained from the alien mainframe,¡± Kesto replied. ¡°You¡¯ve finished deciphering it?¡± Kaz asked. ¡°Mostly corrupted,¡± Kesto replied, the disappointment in his voice somewhat evident. ¡°But not all. Managed to recover some, including slipspace coordinates, numbers easy to translate, math universal.¡± For a moment, Agozi''s ears stood up and her whiskers twitched, indicating her curiosity. ¡°Any idea where they lead?¡± she asked. ¡°Trivial enough finding out where they lead.¡± Hesitating, Kesto¡¯s snout took on a look of significant concern. ¡°Knowing what on the other side more difficult.¡± Book 1: Act 1: Chapter 5: Part I ¡°Humble apologies,¡± Xeno-Psychiatrist Zelana said with genuine remorse, as she entered the briefing room via the sliding door near the corner. ¡°There was a patient in urgent need of my care and¡ª¡± ¡°Never mind that,¡± Kaz said. ¡°Just take your seat with the others.¡± Zelana surveyed the room and its occupants. All were seated around the holoprojector except for Kaz, who stood beside it. Attendees included Lieutenant Agozi, Honorary-Lieutenant Snikers, Xeno-Biologist Okens, and other senior crew members. For most, a brief pause would be necessary to absorb the ambiance and discern the situation''s seriousness, but for the Langa, such perceptions were instinctive. The subtle yet unmistakable tension in the postures of those gathered signaled that this was no routine assembly. Zelana found herself ruminating on the reason for her summoning. Her work, though crucial, was primarily therapeutic in nature. Yet, a succinct message from Kaz beckoned her urgently to the bridge. Ambiguity unsettled the Langa, and Zelana felt this unease most acutely. The uncertainty of the situation heightened her anxiety. It was evident that a matter of grave importance was unfolding or on the brink of doing so. Kaz''s whiskers trembled momentarily, hinting at his notice of Zelana''s discomfort. ¡°Something wrong?¡± It took Zelana a moment to respond. ¡°No.¡± Her voice held the merest trace of anxiety. ¡°My mental state is proper. Your concern is appreciated.¡± Yet, beneath the composed facade Zelana presented, her emotional equilibrium wasn''t as steadfast as she portrayed. Before committing herself to the Union, she had meticulously studied the associated risk probabilities. The likelihood of enduring a catastrophic event as a type-three crewmember was statistically insignificant. Tangibly, at least. In the hierarchy of risk, type-zero assignments, with roles such as terrestrial scouting and armed security, stood at the forefront of potential danger. It was usually the fearless Mevik and, on rare occasions, a Prol who ventured into these perilous domains. The risks associated with type-one and two were palpable, but not as pronounced. For most Langa, it was typically the type-four or higher that aligned with their level of comfort. Zelana''s choice to embrace a type-three spoke volumes of her. By Langan standards. Her genetic inheritance remained impervious to the calming reassurances of statistical data; a fact evidenced by the involuntary tremor in her nose. ¡°Doctor Zelana?¡± Kaz asked again, having noted her momentary paralysis. ¡°My apologies,¡± Zelana replied in a snap, before being escorted to her designated sitting spot by a nearby Mevik security guard. After ensuring that no vital participants were absent, Kaz darkened the room using a remote and commenced the presentation. ¡°Some time ago, our experimental scanners detected an unknown object,¡± he said. ¡°We deviated from our original mission to investigate. We¡¯ve now obtained confirmation that the object is a wreckage belonging to a previously unencountered space faring civilization.¡± The holoprojector displayed a rotating three-dimensional representation of the alien wreckage. Disgruntled chatter and mumblings permeated. A Prol from the second row, an engineering manager, gestured at Kaz to catch his attention. Kaz noted the Prol. ¡°Is there a question you wish to pose?¡± ¡°Serious development,¡± the Prol said. ¡°Not told. Why?¡± Kaz hesitated for a moment. ¡°We believed it wiser to refrain from disclosing the find until we could fully grasp its implications.¡± ¡°Why?¡± asked the disgruntled Prol. ¡°Security risk?¡± ¡°We have no reason to believe so.¡± ¡°If no risk, why treat information discreetly?¡± Zelana¡¯s nose twitched, and her lips also exhibited subtle movements of minor discomfort. She couldn''t help but acknowledge the Prol''s perspective. What could be so significant that they chose to withhold it? Were these the very reasons behind the consistent visits to her sanctuary? Was this the mystery behind Kaz''s evasiveness to her queries? As before, Kaz took a moment before responding to the Prol''s inquiry. ¡°We had our reasons.¡± Zelana, though not tall, found it easy to pay attention from her vantage point in the top row. She gently nipped her lower lip with her small fangs. A sign of anxiousness. Kaz''s brief conflict with the Prol engineer ended, allowing him to proceed with the presentation. ¡°An expedition party led by Master-Engineer Kesto was dispatched inside the wreckage to investigate,¡± he said. ¡°Though circumstances forced them to abandon their mission prematurely, they were able to recover a specimen.¡± Kaz oriented himself toward the holoprojector. The holographic display transitioned from the wreckage to a life-sized alien figure, showcased in a T posture and spinning along the X axis. ¡°This is a life-size depiction of the alien skeleton,¡± Kaz said. ¡°There¡¯s not much left, so we can only guess its true appearance.¡± The skeleton¡¯s size surprised many. ¡°This is true to scale?¡± one of the Mevik security personnel in the room asked. ¡°Not just upscaled for easier viewing?¡± ¡°It is true to life,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°It looks even bigger than Kaz,¡± Zelana overheard one of the Mevik females mutter, who was seated a couple of spots away from her in the bottom row. ¡°By quite a lot, actually.¡± If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. Zelana scrutinized the hologram. It indeed appeared quite large, dwarfing the Mevik and other sentient beings even more so. Xeno-Biologist Okens walked over to the projector and began adjusting the knobs on the holographic interface. Beside the hologram, a series of 2D notes detailing forensics and anatomy became visible. ¡°Forensic analyzes complete is,¡± Okens said. ¡°Stands upright, six feet three inches, hundred-seventy-six pounds minimum in living state, skeletal structure exceptionally balanced, natural bipedal, dexterity and finesse of movement superb¡­¡± Zelana watched the Mevik''s subdued reactions closely, catching their faint whisker shifts and barely noticeable nose twitches. She hypothesized that their reactions were likely rooted in vanity, given the Mevik''s well-documented esteem for their physical prowess. Lacking such attributes, they would be indistinguishable from the plethora of other species within the Union lacking notable cognitive talents. Never mind that, she mused. Okens continued reviewing the findings. ¡°Solid bones. Not hollow. Extremely durable¡­¡± Bone mass would nominally dilute as a race matured into civilization, the durability of the home replacing the durability of bone. ¡°Unexpected skeletal design,¡± Okens said. ¡°Primate lineage probable. First ever instance¡ª" Zelana looked startled as her eyes expanded and her ears lifted. In a move extremely uncharacteristic of a Langa, let alone an esteemed professional like herself, Zelana rose from her seat and interrupted Okens mid-lecture. ¡°No!¡± Many turned with puzzled looks after the interruption, particularly Kaz who seemed especially surprised by the intrusion. ¡°That which you have stated cannot be correct!¡± Zelana exclaimed with a scholarly sense of righteousness. The pervasive silence that followed induced a sense of discomfort within Zelana. However, the physical manifestations of her discomfort were intricately subtle, too nuanced for those outside the Langa species to decipher. There was an extended awkward pause before Okens, looking clearly baffled, asked his question. ¡°Doctor Zelana Song? Psychiatric Division? Xeno-Psychiatry specialization?¡± ¡°You assume my qualifications correctly.¡± With a momentary hesitation, Okens regarded Zelana with a mixture of confusion and surprise, clearly unaccustomed to such behavior from a Langa. ¡°Insights, related to your expertise, you''d like to share?¡± he asked eventually. Kaz''s eyes settled on Zelana, his expression a balance of interest and concern. He broke the silence shortly afterward. ¡°If there¡¯s anything you¡¯d like to share with us, some potentially valuable insight or information relating to what we¡¯ve just discussed, now¡¯s the time.¡± All eyes in the room turned to Zelana. With the mounting awareness of the undivided attention she had garnered, Zelana¡¯s apprehension intensified. She appeared ready to voice something, her lips twitching, but she said nothing. ¡°Doctor Zelana?¡± Kaz repeated. Zelana snapped out of it. ¡°There is.¡± Possibly because she could sense her unease, Agozi approached her. ¡°Do you need any help making it to the holopodium?¡± she asked her empathetically. Given her petite stature, Zelana had little choice but to accept the offer. Once she was guided to the podium, Kaz provided her with an amplifier for her translator. ¡°My apologies for the rude interruption,¡± she said. ¡°I am Doctor Zelana Song. My assigned field of endeavor is the psychological analysis and study of¡ª" ¡°Please expedite your point,¡± Kaz said impatiently. ¡°Why did you deem it necessary to disrupt us?¡± Feeling both chastised and annoyed by Kaz¡¯s interruption, Zelana threw him a fleeting judgmental look. ¡°Doctor Okens asserts that the alien arose from a primate lineage,¡± she replied. ¡°Such a supposition, however, counters logical reasoning.¡± ¡°How so?¡± Kaz asked. ¡°It contradicts socio-evolutionary theory.¡± ¡°Whose premise is what?¡± A subtle twitch of Zelana¡¯s nose and other faint signs revealed her discomfort. ¡°It''s an undisputed tenet that only those species conforming to specific prerequisites possess the potential to transition into a sentient civilization.¡± ¡°What kind of criteria?¡± ¡°A steadfast social hierarchy is paramount,¡± Zelana replied, the apex of her snout quivering with seriousness. ¡°A characteristic notably absent in primates. Indeed, it''s challenging to contemplate a mammalian subset more predisposed to uncivilized behavior.¡± The prevailing sentiment among anthropologists and socio-cultural scholars was that the bedrock of complex societies lay in monogamous or mate-sharing practices. Societies built on the principles of polygamy and hypergamy, they believed, lacked the stability for sustained cooperation. Primates were categorized under this more unstable bracket. Okens considered her words. ¡°Familiar with theory,¡± he replied. ¡°Theory not fact.¡± He gestured towards the holographic images. ¡°Primate skeleton. True.¡± A feeling of cringe overtook Zelana. While she empathized with the Prol, understanding that whilst they surpassed the Mevik in intellect, they still lagged behind the Langa. His lack of insight was predictable, but it still stung slightly, especially coming from someone of his professional standing. ¡°This is a conjecture anchored in a millennium of rigorous exploration and scientific scrutiny,¡± Zelana said with scholarly confidence. ¡°Primates are infamously known for their volatile temperaments, their brutality transcending even the standards of non-sentient beings.¡± To Zelana''s chagrin, her words didn''t elicit the gravitas she had anticipated. ¡°Well, there''s a first time for everything, isn''t there?¡± Agozi remarked, a hint of amusement evident despite the unsettling implication. ¡°That doesn''t qualify as incontrovertible truth,¡± Zelana countered. ¡°It merely appears so, given our predilection to overlook those events that fail to transpire.¡± A flutter of Agozi''s whiskers betrayed her puzzlement. ¡°How do you spot something that hasn¡¯t happened?¡± ¡°You cannot,¡± Zelana replied ¡°This forms the crux of the argument I have been striving to convey. There exist certain phenomena within our universe that are fundamentally contraindicated by nature''s laws.¡± ¡°Why, then, is there a deceased primate in our morgue?¡± Kaz asked, his tone shifting between genuine inquiry and mockery. ¡°What he said,¡± Agozi seconded. ¡°Bones cannot deceive,¡± Okens then added. A ripple of irritation coursed through Zelana. This was the sacrifice she made by choosing this path, the burden of sharing quarters with entities of such limited cognition. Their glaring lack of perspective, coupled with an astonishing inability to grasp the subtleties of her discourse, was almost too much to bear. ¡°They indeed cannot, yet this does not necessarily preclude the potential for sentient miscalculations.¡± Okens used the holo-controls to zoom in on the alien skull. ¡°The skull,¡± he said. ¡°Examine. Is flat. Primate design.¡± Zelana scrutinized the 3D illustrations. The design of the skull did indeed bear an uncanny resemblance to one of a primate. But this, by itself, was hardly enough evidence. Zelana had studied at the most prestigious universities. The notion of civilized primates colonizing space contradicted everything they¡¯d taught her. She had a professional obligation to refute such obvious nonsense, lest it steer the discourse some place undesirable. ¡°There are no instances in which primates have evolved beyond their rudimentary impulses.¡± ¡°Partially false,¡± Okens replied. ¡°Basic tribal cultures known to exist. Precedent set already.¡± ¡°The cultures you refer to have languished in stasis for millennia,¡± Zelana scoffed back at him. ¡°They lack the requisite capacity to extricate themselves from their abject state of existence.¡± Agozi touched her cheek as she pondered. ¡°Maybe they just needed a little nudge in the right direction?¡± Zelana hadn¡¯t considered the possibility of an outside force uplifting the species but harbored reservations regarding the notion''s plausibility. ¡°Intrusion into the organic evolution of rudimentary cultures is expressly forbidden under Union legislation.¡± Kaz was quick to point out that neither this supposed primate race nor any hypothetical uplifter belonged to the Union. ¡°Their value system is unknown to us,¡± he said. ¡°Right,¡± Agozi retorted with a cheeky grin. ¡°If they saw these crazy space apes as regressive, maybe they fancied it their noble task to give them a little ''upgrade'', so to speak.¡± Crazy space apes¡­ Zelana mused, cringing internally at the juvenile language employed. The Union''s penchant for attracting such ''talents'' provides ample clarity on why its work isn''t more revered. Still, Zelana had to admit begrudgingly that such a possibility couldn¡¯t be ruled out entirely, but she still expressed skepticism at the concept. ¡°Such intervention would require technology equal or perhaps even greater than our own,¡± she said. ¡°This is ignoring the obvious ethical dilemmas accompanying such drastic alternation of another race¡¯s genome.¡± ¡°Technology not greater,¡± Master-Engineer Kesto said. ¡°Partially equal. Partially superior. Mostly inferior.¡± For Zelana, Kesto''s words sealed the matter conclusively. ¡°A civilization bereft of technological prowess cannot possibly catalyze the ascension of another,¡± she said. ¡°This nullifies any ascension theory.¡± The debate raged for a while longer, until Kaz cut it short. ¡°This species clearly diverges from any we''ve observed in the past,¡± he said. ¡°However, indulging in unfounded speculation is neither productive nor do we possess the luxury of time for such pursuits.¡± Book 1: Act 1: Chapter 5: Part II ¡°There¡¯s still one last matter to discuss,¡± Kaz said. They''d spent hours poring over the team''s discoveries, letting even the most junior crewmembers weigh in. This open approach seemed to irk Honorary-Lieutenant Snikers endlessly, which Agozi found deliciously amusing. ¡°We salvaged data from the alien mainframe prior to the ship¡¯s implosion,¡± Kaz said. ¡°Following extensive analysis, Master-Engineer Kesto came across what he believes to be slipspace coordinates.¡± His tone became serious. ¡°It¡¯s time we decide what to do with them.¡± Concerned mumblings once again permeated. ¡°Apologies for the interruption¡­¡± In the corner stood a Mevik security officer, who seemed troubled. ¡°You''re not seriously considering jumping using these coordinates, are you?¡± The room''s gaze fixed on Kaz, who after a brief silence, offered his response. ¡°That¡¯s what we¡¯re here to debate.¡± ¡°Not sure what the big deal is,¡± said another member of Mevik security. ¡°We jump into slipspace all the time. What¡¯s the worst thing that could happen?¡± The first Mevik gave the second one a disapproving look. ¡°The ship is lost in space forever or we all die horribly,¡± he replied derisively. ¡°Or both.¡± Everyone looked much queasier suddenly. This included Agozi, who felt a rare twinge of apprehension, the grim possibility of being lost in the vastness of space giving her pause. ¡°It¡¯s true there are risks involved,¡± Kaz said eventually. ¡°But that¡¯s true for any mission. You represent our brightest and most devoted. If you want to share your input on how to proceed, now¡¯s the time.¡± The knee-jerk responses arrived instantly. ¡°Absurd!¡± said one attendee, a Mevik. ¡°Ridiculous! Madness!¡± said another, a Prol. The majority echoed the sentiment. ***** Kaz''s whiskers gave a subtle twitch, though not from disappointment. In fact, he¡¯d been hoping for this exact reaction. Snikers had already been informed of the alien coordinates prior to the meeting, and in typical Snikers fashion, had opted to downplay the risk. Kaz hoped a popular backslash would dissuade him. The former didn¡¯t enjoy immunity from consequences despite his authority. And it was not as though the danger they faced was illusory. Safe passage through slipspace required deliberate manipulation of its parameters. Using the alien coordinates, if they could even be termed as such, would be an act of unparalleled folly. Skeptical of Snikers'' judgment though he was, Kaz doubted even he would be foolish enough to imperil the crew, and by association, himself. The palpable disapproval now filling the room would surely give him pause. Snikers signaled to Kaz to get out of the way. ¡°Please, for the sake of civilized civility¡ª" Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on. ¡°¡¯Civilized civility¡¯?¡± Agozi interrupted mockingly. ¡°Isn¡¯t that just a bit redundant?¡± Snikers ignored her. ¡°I must insist this loutish squabbling be ended!¡± He sounded more authoritative than usual, but his tone remained tranquil still. ¡°Your consternation is most understandable, and your concerns have been noted. But I assure you, my dear commoners¡ª" ¡°No one here is a ¡®commoner¡¯,¡± Agozi interrupted, clearly peeved by the sanctimonious phrasing. ¡°This room''s filled with the best of the best from every race.¡± Snikers glanced at Agozi with disapproval, then quickly turned away. ¡°Ah, yes... indeed...¡± he remarked with a disdainful flair. ¡°But one can scarcely be impressed when one is working with such unpredictable genetic stock.¡± Kaz took note of Agozi''s agitated stance. Though he withheld comment, he maintained a watchful gaze. His patience for her emotional outbursts was notably thin given the gravity of the current circumstances. ¡°Even the most illustrious artisan cannot transmute bronze into pure gold¡­¡± Snikers gave Agozi another judgmental glance, but same as last time, broke it quickly. ¡°A fact made abundantly clear by your egregiously uncouth demeanor.¡± Her whiskers shaking rapidly, Agozi bared a few of her teeth by curling her upper lip, an act which even other Mevik would¡¯ve found rude. Some of Kaz''s fingers clenched involuntarily. He didn''t like what he was witnessing. Please don¡¯t embarrass yourself. Snikers didn''t lose his calm demeanor. He talked to her in the smug voice he was known for. ¡°Please, I assure you there is no need for that look, my dear child. Nor is it appropria¡ª¡± ¡°I¡¯m not a child!¡± Agozi barked at him. Kaz¡¯s whiskers jerked wildly in an expression of shock and disappointment. It was this exact scenario that he''d hoped to avoid. The abrupt change in Agozi''s tone had the room staring at her in disbelief. They looked at her as though she''d lost her senses. Even Snikers, who rarely exhibited much emotion besides his stereotypical smugness, momentarily lost his cool. A tense pause filled the room. Snikers eventually broke the stillness. ¡°If the dear Lieutenant possesses no further valuable insights, I¡¯m afraid I must request she remain absent from this discussion.¡± He didn¡¯t sound angry exactly, but this was probably just a byproduct of his restraint. The undercurrent of irritation was clear. Kaz opted to intervene before Agozi could embarrass herself further. ¡°The Lieutenant''s perspective has been duly noted,¡± he said. ¡°It is imperative we continue.¡± ¡°But¡ª¡± Kaz gave her a warning glance. Agozi sighed. ¡°Whatever.¡± Snikers resumed where he¡¯d left off. ¡°This situation is most assuredly under control,¡± he said. ¡°In absolutely no shape or form do these wondrous developments pose any danger to the ship and its valued sentient resources¡­¡± Agozi visibly winced, her face and posture radiating disgust, but she said nothing. ¡°Should the crew find itself burdened by clouds of uncertainty, thus denying it the prerequisite mental tools for a wise conclusion, then I shall reach one on its behalf.¡± ¡°Oh, we¡¯re all good then,¡± Agozi said with passive-aggressive tone. Kaz gave her another cautionary look, causing her to remain silent once more. But the prevailing sentiment in the room suggested that Agozi had a point. The notion was met with a palpable lack of enthusiasm from those assembled. ¡°What of the risk?¡± asked a disgruntled attendee. ¡°What if the coordinates don¡¯t work?¡± asked another. ¡°And where do they even take us?¡± said a third. A silent smirk formed within Kaz. This was the reaction he''d been hoping for. The questions brushed against Snikers'' patience as if posed out of ignorance. ¡°Nonsensical misgivings,¡± he said dismissively, like the premise was self-evidently absurd. He looked at Master-Engineer Kesto. ¡°It is my understanding they eclipse us technologically with respect to ship crafting?¡± ¡°In certain respects, but¡ª¡± ¡°Then clearly, we have nothing to worry about.¡± Kaz felt a weight in his stomach, with his whiskers giving a twitch and his lips turning up just a bit. ¡°Let us not squander precious time by wallowing in petty ambivalence,¡± Snikers said. ¡°I am certain these coordinates are as reliable and safe as the race that conceived of them.¡± ***** Kaz had gravely miscalculated the depth of Snikers''s egotism and self-assuredness. Despite his earnest efforts to dissuade him by highlighting the myriad risks and practical impediments, the latter remained adamant in his decision. On a more positive note, Kaz had been granted the authority to inform the crew of the unfolding situation. Even Snikers, in his wisdom or lack thereof, acknowledged that maintaining eternal secrecy was unsustainable, particularly with the imminent prospect of first contact with the enigmatic alien race. Book 1: Act 1: Chapter 5: Part III/Final Xeno-Psychiatrist Zelana peered away from her terminal when the sliding door opened. Captain Kaz entered her office. ¡°Do you have a minute to spare?¡± He''d arrived unannounced, just like the last time. Memories of their previous strained encounter resurfaced in Zelana''s mind. She concealed her annoyance, though she wished he''d notice her displeasure. ¡°Certainly.¡± She shut off the screen using a button on its bottom right. ¡°Kindly, take a seat if you wish.¡± she said, gesturing at a nearby chair. ¡°I prefer to stand.¡± Over time, Zelana''s initial discomfort with the vast difference in their physical presence had mellowed. Yet, undercurrents of those feelings persisted. ¡°If you wish.¡± Kaz hesitated a moment before continuing. ¡°You recall the subject matter of our meeting yesterday?¡± Naturally I do. I don¡¯t have Mevik memory, Zelana mused sneeringly. ¡°Indeed.¡± She paused. ¡°I gather this concerns our conversation from then?¡± ¡°Correct,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°Ordinarily, your rank doesn''t grant access to these types of meetings.¡± That very subject had occupied Zelana''s thoughts in the quiet moments after the meeting had ended. ¡°It was unexpected.¡± ¡°But not without reason,¡± Kaz said. ¡°Your expertise is now urgently required.¡± Zelana''s nose gave a tiny twitch, so brief that Kaz likely missed it. ¡°What exactly is it you require of my skills?¡± ¡°Your expertise is needed to decode this mission¡¯s ever-shifting parameters,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°Last evening, you were quite adamant about this alien species contradicting our known logic.¡± He paused briefly. ¡°We''ve come to a similar conclusion.¡± His tone turned serious. ¡°Which is precisely why we require someone of your particular skill set.¡± Zelana could take an educated guess where this was going, though she remained wary of the idea. ¡°You seek my insight into understanding this perplexing species?¡± ¡°Correct.¡± Zelana hesitated, her voice showing clear doubt, before she spoke again. ¡°While I grasp the gravity, my expertise lies in the realm of the living,¡± she replied. ¡°A deceased specimen provides limited data.¡± Her choice of words might''ve appeared crude to other Langa, but Zelana had discerned that the Mevik, perplexingly, valued this forthrightness. ¡°You seemed plenty willing to share your thoughts when you interrupted Okens last evening.¡± Interrupting Okens had been terribly rude and something she regretted in hindsight. Zelana¡¯s ears dropped ever-so slightly. ¡°My apologies for the most inappropriate etiquette.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t dwell on it,¡± Kaz said, showing no sign of discomfort from the earlier incident. ¡°Your points are valid. You''ll receive every piece of information we have on this alien race. I''m counting on your comprehensive analysis, and all your findings are to be reported directly to me.¡± Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there. ¡°I lack the required clearance.¡± Though Zelana¡¯s position granted her considerable access to the ship¡¯s data logs, her rank was mid-tier at best. She could not access high-level information pertaining to the alien discoveries. ¡°That''s been addressed,¡± Kaz said. ¡°Your clearance has been elevated to level four effective immediately.¡± The revelation sent waves of disquiet through Zelana; her eyes fixed on him in sheer disbelief. Langa were not known for gracefully handling unexpected changes, especially when they bore significant weight. The mere thought of moving from a modest level two to an overwhelming level four - placing her in the echelons of power only rivalled by Kaz, Agozi, and Snikers - was a staggering concept, especially given its nonchalant delivery. The weight of it all hit her, making her stomach twist. After a brief pause, she found the clarity to respond. ¡°Captain¡­as much as I am humbled, I do not feel such sudden and, if I may say so, improperly considered¡ª¡± ¡°The decisions we make over the next several cycles will impact the lives of billions of sentients,¡± Kaz interrupted, the seriousness in his voice clear. There was now a near-nauseous quality to Zelana''s tone. ¡°T-They will?¡± ¡°They will,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°You''ll possess all requisite authority to conduct your work unhindered. Once the mission''s objective is met, your clearance will revert to its prior level.¡± She found it hard to process. ¡°Very well, I''ll do my utmost,¡± she eventually said with some reluctance. ***** Kaz relished the last drops before lowering his glass onto the cantina table. The place seemed strangely quiet. By this time, it would typically be bustling. Had recent occurrences deterred the crew? But wasn''t the purpose of such a place to soothe one''s anxieties? Kaz wasn''t bothered by the tranquility. In fact, it provided a welcome respite from his demanding routine. Just as he considered another drink, a familiar warmth settled on his shoulder. ¡°Please don¡¯t¡­¡± said a comforting female voice. Kaz set the glass aside and looked over his shoulder. Agozi stood closely behind him. He was surprised to see her in the cantina, knowing she didn''t like alcohol. ¡°Agozi¡­¡± A hiccup escaped his snout. ¡°Care to sit down with me?¡± Agozi gave Kaz a brief once-over. Kaz stared back at her, perplexed by the silence. Reading her cues was challenging. Though appearing at ease, her sharp gaze and restless whiskers indicated more. Agozi¡¯s voice took on an alluring quality. ¡°There are better ways to relieve stress¡­¡± Something about Agozi''s attitude was off to Kaz. He took a breath before answering in a light-hearted tone. ¡°Compared to the experience I''m currently savoring?¡± Agozi chuckled seductively. ¡°Yes¡­¡± Agozi replied before putting on a wide smile, whiskers jerking hectically. ¡°Come with me.¡± ¡°And our destination would be?¡± ¡°I¡¯ll show you.¡± Kaz gave her a lingering look, wondering what she was up to, but eventually rose from the cantina bench. The instant Kaz rose, Agozi forcefully seized his arm with both her hands. Kaz was taken aback by Agozi''s strong grip. ¡°Agozi?!¡± With a chuckle, she yanked him closer, their eyes locking. The expression in Agozi''s eyes jolted Kaz. ¡°Mind telling me what¡¯s going on?¡± Without acknowledging his question, Agozi pulled Kaz toward the exit. He now felt more than just a little uncomfortable not to mention baffled. ¡°Agozi!¡± Kaz said again, his tone sounding more commanding than last time. ¡°I demand that you explain yourself¡ª¡± ¡°Shut up,¡± Agozi interrupted as they departed out the cantina door. Despite his puzzlement and interest, Kaz held back any objections. There had better be solid reasoning behind this, he mused. Agozi led him through various hallways until they reached a small storage room. ¡°Now that I''m here, explain yourself.¡± Ignoring the question, Agozi took out a keycard and unlocked the storage room entrance. ¡°These games of yours are testing my patience¡­¡± he voiced, his irritation palpable. ¡°I must insist you tell me what about this is abou¡ª" Holding him firmly, Agozi drew him into the storage area. The moment they were inside, the door sealed, and she cornered him against the wall. Kaz''s whiskers flared dramatically. ¡°What''s gotten into you?!¡± Agozi brought her snout near his, her gaze ablaze with desire. ¡°Agozi! What are you¡ª¡± Kaz¡¯s eyes widened upon realizing what was going on. It seemed stupidly obvious in hindsight and explained the cantina''s uncharacteristic emptiness. Although Meviks weren''t bound to specific breeding periods, their libidos varied dramatically with the seasons. Females especially were prone to such fluctuations. Recent events had distracted Kaz from this detail. Kaz''s irritation melted, realizing the reason for Agozi''s ¡®strange¡¯ conduct. ¡°Are you in heat?¡± he asked bluntly. Agozi tore at his clothing in a frenzy, her breaths deep and rapid. ¡°I¡¯ll interpret your current behavior in the positive.¡± Book 1: Act 1: Chapter 6: Part I Agozi arched her back and let out a soft and prolonged moan as the climax washed over her. Kaz¡¯s hands and mouth continued to work her body affectionately for a while longer until he apparently decided she¡¯d had enough, which prompted her to tilt her head up slightly and peer down at Kaz, who sat in a kneeling position in front of her bed. ¡°That''s it?¡± she asked, the look of disappointment on her snout palpable. ¡°We¡¯ve been at it for hours as is, and you¡¯ll be falling out of heat soon,¡± Kaz replied as if his devotion to their lovemaking constituted some serious and professional activity. Mevik didn¡¯t mate often but made their seasons feel endless when they did. Juggling his professional commitments and their intimate moments had been a trial for Kaz. Agozi for her part was drunk on euphoria. Or at least she had been. Alas, Kaz spoke the truth. Her hormonal condition would shortly return to equilibrium. Her face lit up with a bemused smile. Guess there''s always next time. Kaz let go of her thighs and rose to his feet. ¡°We need to be on the bridge soon.¡± His demeanor and tone had already reverted to his standard professional self. ¡°Dress quickly.¡± Agozi rose and settled on the bed''s edge. ¡°Can''t shake off that uniform for a moment, eh?¡± ¡°One must uphold standards at all times.¡± ¡°Would the sky fall if you loosened up once in a while?¡± ¡°We''ve already taken liberties these past few cycles,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°Rest assured, my focus has been solely on your intimate organs.¡± The chuckle that followed from Agozi carried more chagrin than joy, something both her snout and whisker motion made plenty obvious. ¡°And there you go, proving my point!¡± she said, making a Mevik hand sign indicating annoyance. ¡°Do you ever not see our intimate moments as just another tick on your checklist?¡± She rose from the bed and took several steps towards him, stopping just a few feet away. Her whiskers fluttered, and her voice took on a playful note. ¡°I''m a bit more complex than your bog-standard mission assignment, you know.¡± ¡°Your earlier moaning seemed to disagree,¡± Kaz replied, apparently oblivious to his curt choice of words. Agozi''s whiskers vibrated with bemusement and her ears perked slightly. Her lips indicated a desire to speak but she hesitated several times. ¡°You''re quite the piece of work¡­¡± she said whilst returning to her seat on the bed, positioning her elbows on her thighs and directing her puzzled snout towards the floor. Just as Kaz''s lips and whiskers hinted he was about to speak, the buzz of his communicator drew their eyes to his crumpled uniform on the floor, amid their other clothes. Kaz made his way to the clothes, bent down to get his communicator, and took the call. After ending it and switching it off, he stood and faced Agozi. ¡°We''re leaving slipspace earlier than anticipated.,¡± he said. ¡°This discussion will have to wait.¡± A tad annoyed but seeing no cause for objection, Agozi made a sign of understanding. ¡°All essential hands are converging on the bridge,¡± Kaz said as he dressed in his uniform. ¡°I''ll make my way there. Join promptly once you''re prepared.¡± As he neared the door intending to leave, he stopped short by the doorframe. ¡°Before I go¡­¡± he said without looking at her, his voice having taken on a slightly bitter edge. ¡°The episode involving Snikers...¡± His whiskers jerked irately for a moment. ¡°Ensure there''s no recurrence of such an event.¡± If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement. The cloud of bliss that had enveloped Agozi for the last several days dissipated instantly, leaving behind a raw, biting feeling. Her eyes became slits, her lips hinted defiance, and her agitated whiskers moved sporadically. ¡°Want to run that by me again?¡± Agozi wasn''t oblivious to Kaz''s sentiments, but there was something about his chilling delivery that irked her in ways she couldn''t pinpoint. Her evident hurt made Kaz stop in his tracks, just short of leaving through the door. ¡°Did someone put a thorn in your tail or something?¡± For a moment, Kaz remained silent, then turned, locking eyes with her, his snout betraying no hint of amusement. ¡°I had every right to address it that way.¡± The mood quickly lost its joviality. Kaz eased his grip from the doorframe. With a solemn look, he turned to face her, and then steadily walked toward her. ¡°Agozi, we''re far from the academy now. Snikers isn''t just another voice you can disregard.¡± There was a marked seriousness in his voice. ¡°Don''t let Snikers'' demeanor fool you. He¡¯s relentless and has a reach beyond ours. Another affront to him, and you might see your career ending abruptly.¡± As Agozi processed the warning, a hint of unease appeared on her snout, but it vanished almost immediately. ¡°Look, I¡¯ve danced with my share of high noses,¡± she said. ¡°I joined to ditch the snobby charade, not to be reminded of it.¡± ¡°You might think you know his type, but Snikers isn''t from the same cloth as your past acquaintances,¡± Kaz said, his tone growing serious. ¡°Underestimate him at your peril.¡± Agozi gave a moment''s thought to the warning before swiftly dismissing it. ¡°How''s he any different?¡± she asked, appearing indifferent. ¡°Trust me, one uppity snob is just like the next.¡± She paused. ¡°Look, I get it that you like to style yourself as being the one with the practical knowledge, but this is one domain where I¡¯m just shrewder than you. You wouldn¡¯t get it because you¡¯re not¡ª¡± ¡°High-bred enough?¡± Kaz interrupted irately. An uneasy silence hung momentarily. ¡°All I was trying to say was¡ª" ¡°I grasped your implications, Agozi. Clearly.¡± It was evident Kaz was annoyed, and his tone grew even graver. ¡°And you''re off the mark. Your privileged world has insulated you from the darker aspects. You seem to think that your kind has some idyllic moral compass. That''s not the entirety of it. The influential have their ways of obscuring what they''d rather the world not see.¡± His voice took on a bleak and skeptical edge. ¡°No one code governs everyone, Agozi. Not even under the same roof.¡± Agozi seemed taken aback by the sheer bluntness, but her snarky demeanor quickly came back. Though in truth, Agozi''s tolerance frayed at the edges as she grappled with the accusation in Kaz''s tone. She got that he wasn''t pinpointing her bloodline specifically, but she couldn''t shake off the sting of his phrasing. ¡°Do they serve that level of cynicism at the bar now?¡± Kaz curled his lip irately. ¡°This isn''t a matter to be taken lightly.¡± ¡°You''re seeing shadows where there aren''t any.¡± ¡°I''m laying it out as I see it.¡± Agozi was gearing up to say something when the buzzing from Kaz''s communicator interrupted. ¡°Kind reminder that your presence is anticipated on the bridge in approximately fifteen minutes,¡± the alarm spoke in a soothing digitized voice. They shared a short, uncomfortable silence, just staring at each other. ¡°Meet me on the bridge.¡± Kaz pivoted and left through the door. ***** They stood near viewport where they gazed into the empty slipspace void. Slipspace was less a tangible location and more a conceptual dimension that demanded intense mental gymnastics to comprehend. Agozi, despite her smarts, hit a wall trying to grasp it. Same went for most other bright minds out there, save for select Langan brainiacs and, to a somewhat lesser degree, the Pretenti. In addition to the new enigmatic race, it seemed. The wreckage might''ve been devoid of an intact slipspace drive, but with its position out in the galactic boonies you''d have to be blind to miss the implications. This made the prospect of first contact quite exciting. In the thousand years in which the Union had existed as a spacefaring civilization, none besides the Langa and Pretenti had been successful in innovating slipspace technology independently, with all other civilizations merely adopting their technology. Encountering a third spacefaring faction made up the most major historical development in centuries. ¡°Attention!¡± echoed the loudspeaker. ¡°The ship will exist slipspace in five minutes. All crew personal, please prep for real-space entry.¡± Agozi''s ears perked up. The atmosphere on the bridge felt tense. Those crewmembers not confined to their workstations gathered in front of the viewport. Everyone¡¯s eyes were now glued firmly to the viewport. ¡°Dropping out of slipspace in five¡­four¡­three¡­two¡­one¡­¡± Agozi¡¯s whiskers twitched in anticipation. ¡°Entering real-space!¡± Crossing dimensional borders wasn¡¯t an instantaneous process. It took the ship several minutes to re-materialize inside real-space. Gradually, the bleak and featureless void of slipspace gave way to more vivid imagery. ¡°Transition complete!¡± The viewport looked clean and sharply defined now that the Minboa had fully completed its transition. The images displayed evoked astonished responses from all across the bridge, and it wasn¡¯t long before whiskers and snouts alike began jerking uncontrollably. Book 1: Act 1: Chapter 6: Part II/Final ¡°Guess you didn''t see this coming?¡± Agozi said with a smirk, the latter remaining silent, though his snout betrayed a reluctant realization of being wrong. Agozi moved closer to the viewport and took in the sight of sprawling landmasses and oceans. The planet was encircled by hundreds of space installations, and many stood on par with those from the Union''s most flourishing worlds. The airspace buzzed with thousands of crafts, hinting at a thriving civilian life. This vibrancy was comparable to, if not exceeding, most Union worlds. Kaz turned his gaze to a scanner operator close by. ¡°Initiate a thorough scan of the system.¡± ¡°A scan is already in progress,¡± the scanner operator replied. ¡°Summarize the findings.¡± ¡°Not much yet, but it¡¯s clear the planet is home to a technologically advanced race.¡± ¡°Really? And here I thought it was a barren rock,¡± Agozi said, feigning surprise with a playful twitch of her whiskers. ¡°Energy signatures coming from the planet¡¯s surface suggest the presence of large metropolitan areas.¡± The scanner operator hesitated briefly, looking a bit puzzled. ¡°Enormous ones.¡± ¡°Define ¡®enormous¡¯,¡± Kaz said. ¡°A disproportionate percentage of the surface emits industrial level energy signatures.¡± ¡°By what metric?¡± ¡°Energy usage per square-kilometer is dozens of times greater than that of Mevik Prime,¡± the operator replied. ¡°This is without factoring in the orbital industry, which appears to be considerable.¡± Their whiskers betraying uncertainty, Agozi and Kaz locked eyes. Honorary-Lieutenant Snikers slowly developed a whimsical smile, making Agozi pull back at the skunk''s changing expression, yet Snikers seemed too joyfully engrossed to notice her reaction. ¡°Oh! This just simply could not be more marvelous!¡± His voice, usually formal, now clearly carried excitement. ¡°One can merely seek to envisage the inexhaustible opportunities this miraculous discovery has conferred upon us!¡± Agozi groused something under her breath whilst executing a Mevik hand gesture for ridicule. When Snikers glanced at her, she promptly resumed her normal posture. ¡°As I was saying¡­¡± Snikers began a long-winded, and mostly boring lecture on what this all meant. ¡°¡­this heralds the dawn of a new galactic era! New trade avenues shall be set up! New channels of business established! Boundless fresh markets¡­¡± Several times, Agozi nearly voiced her disdain for the self-important council agent''s ramblings. When Kaz cut off the tiresome tirade, she felt relieved, especially considering she had almost done the same if not for a fresh memory of Kaz''s caution. She still felt a hint of annoyance from their last disagreement but had processed Kaz''s perspective. Snikers might be foolish, but his influential position made him more than an annoyance. ¡°It''s premature to make such definitive statements,¡± Kaz said with a tone of cautiousness. ¡°We lack knowledge of their values. Their reaction is still uncertain.¡± Snikers sneered at the notion. ¡°Oh, don¡¯t be preposterous,¡± he said dismissively. ¡°A leader you may be. A diplomat you are not. If you were better versed in the art of commerce, your less evolved brain might be better equipped for understanding the matter.¡± ¡°Must be nice having that Pretenti genius all to yourself,¡± Agozi said, her whiskers dancing with sarcasm. ¡°That is indeed so,¡± Snikers replied, seemingly oblivious to how mocking Agozi¡¯s words had been. ¡°Well we¡¯re good then,¡± Agozi said, the tone of mockery even stronger than before. ¡°Just give them a day or two of the Snikers experience and they¡¯ll be rushing towards Union membership in no time.¡± ¡°My point exactly!¡± Snikers replied joyfully. ¡°What¡­No! I didn¡¯t mean it like tha¡ª¡± Agozi groaned in frustration. ¡°Never mind.¡± Kaz seemed more doubtful than did Snikers. ¡°You''re expressing a lot of confidence given the circumstances.¡± ¡°And truly, I can do nothing else.¡± ¡°Have you considered that your confidence might be unfounded?¡± Kaz asked. ¡°Can you cite an educated reason as to why we should consider such a prospect?¡± ¡°Consider a scenario where another entity similar to the Union exists in their vicinity,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°Their inclination to join us might waver.¡± ¡°Can you cite evidence for the existence of such an institution?¡± ¡°No, but you''re overlooking the main concern,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°With our current understanding, moving forward without a clear picture could be reckless. We need to ascertain the full situation first.¡± Snikers''s nose twitched, hinting at his bemusement. ¡°I mean no disrespect, my dear Captain¡­¡± his tone sounded even more sanctimonious than usual. ¡°But for all the supposed ¡®diversity¡¯ generated by the universe, most intelligent species gravitate towards similar base desires.¡± Moving his hands behind his back, he stepped closer to Kaz, his voice shifting from mockery to seriousness. ¡°Do not forget who I am. As the diplomatic representative of the council, I interact with a larger and more diverse cast of characters in one standard galactic cycle than you will over a lifetime. And take my word for it, my dear Captain, that as different as they look on the outside, most are very much the same on the inside.¡± ¡°Which is to say that they¡¯re greedy and impressionable,¡± Agozi said scornfully, whiskers jerking passive-aggressively. Snikers ignored her. ¡°We''re navigating uncharted space with this mission,¡± Kaz said. ¡°Uncharted from your point of view,¡± Snikers replied dismissively. ¡°Diplomatically speaking, it''s quite routine.¡± He made his way to the viewport. ¡°Look at how advanced their infrastructure is,¡± he said, motioning at the orbital facilities around. ¡°Isn''t the evidence before your eyes? They''re clearly ready for a refined transaction.¡± This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report. Kaz eyed the vast space traffic, noting the bustling activity. Snikers had a point. ¡°Your observations are valid,¡± he replied. ¡°Yet, we''ll tread carefully. First-contact waits until we''ve gathered more intel.¡± His gaze shifted towards the navigational specialist as he turned. ¡°Confirm the status of our cloaks.¡± ¡°Cloaks are fully operational,¡± replied the navigational specialist. ¡°We activated them prior to leaving slipspace just as you ordered.¡± ¡°Are we just hoping the cloaks do their job or is there an actual plan?¡± Agozi asked. ¡°The cloaks are our best plan for now,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°Without them, we''d be in plain sight.¡± Not being acquainted with such technology, Snikers requested clarification. ¡°Think of cloaks as our way of being the universe¡¯s polite guests; great for not freaking out fauna and primitives,¡± Agozi explained. ¡°But it''s purely a visual trick, not some advanced stealth tech. It was never designed to keep us hidden from other advanced races.¡± Her whiskers gave a slight twitch. ¡°And just for the record, it''s technically illegal.¡± ¡°So why worry about such trivial procedures?¡± Snikers asked. ¡°Best to reveal ourselves honestly and in a grand manner guaranteed to inspire awe.¡± ¡°And if they don''t find our honest revelation awe-inspiring, but threatening instead?¡± Kaz inquired with a hint of caution. ¡°If we elect to observe in secret, they might well respond poorly nevertheless,¡± Snikers replied, a tone of judgement having slithered into his voice. While Kaz and Snikers continued to debate the issue, Agozi turned to face the viewport and took a better look at the alien world. A vast expanse of water interspersed with significant landmasses characterized it. Such a composition wasn''t out of the ordinary for an inhabited planet. On the surface, it seemed like any other world. The depth of their knowledge was limited, making it hard to discern if it was the alien''s main world or a colony. Nevertheless, the visible advancements pointed towards a reasonably expansive empire. The discussion ended with Snikers agreeing, albeit reluctantly, to temporarily conceal the ship. ¡°Advance with a measured pace, stopping mere clicks from their closest facility,¡± Kaz said. ¡°The goal is to get as close as possible for clear observation, without giving any hints of our presence.¡± The ship slowly moved closer to the nearest significant orbital facility. From afar, its exact purpose was unclear, but the traffic patterns hinted at a port or trade center. Up to this point, no indications arose about the natives sensing them in the system, with no attempts at communication. ¡°Maintain a thorough scan of the system,¡± Kaz ordered. ¡°Notify me immediately upon scan completion or if anything of significance surfaces.¡± The scanner operator''s attention moved from the display to him. ¡°In fact, something may have already.¡± Kaz turned around before approaching the operator¡¯s workstation. ¡°What did you find?¡± ¡°It¡¯s regarding the climate.¡± ¡°And the issue with the climate is?¡± ¡°It¡¯s abnormal.¡± ¡°In what manner is it abnormal?¡± ¡°In all conceivable manners.¡± Kaz¡¯s whiskers twitched. ¡°Elaborate.¡± ¡°The planet''s median temperature is extremely low given its habitation status,¡± the operator said. ¡°Both the northern and southern poles exhibit extensive ice coverage. Sub-zero temperatures are detected in multiple regions, predominantly in the northern hemisphere.¡± This left all who heard, Kaz and Agozi not excluded, perplexed, and they shared numerous bewildered looks. ¡°Sub-zero temperatures on an inhabited planet?¡± Agozi asked, perplexed by the strange readings. ¡°It''s plausible we''re observing a mining colony,¡± Kaz suggested. ¡°If its primary function is industrial, the challenging environment wouldn''t deter settlement.¡± ¡°Surely, you don''t expect me to believe that such grandeur is merely for mining?¡± Snikers asked, his question surprisingly insightful for once. He adopted a stance of reserved attentiveness, his left hand resting unseen behind his back, while his right hand remained tucked subtly in front of him. With unhurried steps, he neared the viewport, his eyes shifting across the images in both directions. He eventually turned to face Kaz, a self-assured smirk forming on his snout. ¡°Even a layman could see that this world is driven by a pursuit of greatness and enterprise. But, of course, I''m no layman.¡± A confident, smug look appeared on his snout. ¡°The perfect partners for a lucrative venture.¡± Snikers''s relentless monetary focus drew a repulsed response from Agozi. In just five minutes of knowing this new race, he seemed to be plotting business ventures, possibly questionable ones, ignoring other mission considerations. What else to expect from a Pretenti? she mused with evident irritation as she approached the scanner operator. ¡°Move over,¡± she said, signaling the scanner to step back. She then leaned into the monitor, her left arm propped on the control table. ¡°First scans are like first impressions, sometimes they¡¯re off,¡± she said, giving a quick glance at the readings. ¡°Waiting for the full scan might clear things up.¡± ¡°Analyzing a planet¡¯s climate is a simple procedure,¡± the operator said. ¡°There¡¯s no reason to question the accuracy of the scan.¡± Agozi gave the readings one last glance, then pulled away from the control table, standing tall. ¡°Scan it again,¡± she said impatiently. The operator complied, with the results showing no variation. Gazing in disbelief at the implausible statistics, Agozi found herself speechless at their sheer absurdity. ¡°This makes no sense,¡± she muttered under her breath. ¡°Given we''ve encountered spacefaring primates that challenge evolutionary norms, why is a cold climate so perplexing to you?¡± Kaz asked. ¡°Our exploration has encompassed countless worlds of varied climates. A cold environment is hardly the pinnacle of oddities we''ve encountered thus far.¡± ¡°Pardon the interruption, but we have new data from the readings,¡± the scanner operator said. ¡°The planet¡¯s weather patterns appear to be even more abnormal than originally suggested by the early readings.¡± Agozi shifted her focus, looking directly at the operator. ¡°What do you mean?¡± ¡°The axial tilt is notably misaligned,¡± the operator replied. ¡°It''s remarkable that this planet can support life, given its extreme geological instability which should have made it unsuitable for complex organisms.¡± ¡°By what criteria are we deeming this planet ''unsuitable''?¡± Kaz asked. ¡°Certain areas have wind speeds that make direct surface navigation perilous, even with the appropriate gear.¡± The operator''s antennas gave a brief twitch, and his mandibles momentarily parted before quickly snapping back. ¡°Some zones even seem to be undergoing intense hurricanes.¡± Planets with life had always been associated with a stable climate, while extreme weather was the domain of uninhabitable systems. Or such had been their assumption. An uneasy silence persisted, marked by many shared, uncertain glances. ¡°This equipment is obviously subpar,¡± Snikers said eventually. ¡°Where did we even acquire such a joke of a scanner?¡± It was hard for Agozi to believe, but for once, she saw eye to eye with Snikers. Well, minus his lack of self-awareness regarding equipment reliability. He was responsible for installing that blasted device in the first place. ¡°I''m with Snikers on this one,¡± she said. ¡°New gadgets can be quirky. Maybe it¡¯s just getting its bearings.¡± Kaz scratched the area below his jaw as he weighed the facts. ¡°Planets within a system''s habitable zone are the only ones capable of sustaining life,¡± he said. ¡°Stray too close or too far from the sun, and life becomes an impossibility. Precision is key; there''s no margin for error.¡± He ceased his scratching and shifted his attention to the scanner operator. ¡°Provide me with the percentage of cultivatable land.¡± The litmus test for a world''s readiness for civilization was often its agricultural landmass. Established colonies usually showcased a range of thirty to seventy-five percent, with the lower end just scraping by in terms of habitability. The scanner operator worked with the controls and waited for the information to appear. ¡°I calculate approximately eleven percent of the planet''s surface to be arable, excluding urban areas.¡± ¡°Hardly believable,¡± Snikers said, advancing a step towards the viewport to study the hectic space traffic. ¡°How could a world so mediocre produce such opulence?¡± ¡°They might be dependent on external imports, positioning this as a central trading point,¡± Kaz said. ¡°We have another update,¡± the scanner operator said, causing the others to shift their attention his way. ¡°Our instruments detect significant seismic events, likely attributed to the atypical axial tilt. The crust houses multiple magma chambers, pointing to active volcanoes, including some of super-volcanic magnitude. Geological records suggest recent eruptions from some of these.¡± Snikers glanced at Kaz with doubt in his eyes. ¡°A prime trading location in such a dangerous backwater?¡± The notion seemed to make his snout shift in distaste. ¡°Nonsense!¡± Earthquakes and eruptions were practically unheard of on inhabited planets, only marking their presence once in eons. To think of someone pouring resources into such a clearly hostile environment was beyond ridiculous. ¡°Run those numbers by me one more time,¡± Agozi said. ¡°Already been done,¡± the operator replied. ¡°Our analysis returned consistent results, confirming their accuracy.¡± Everyone gazed at the viewport images, their faces painted with awe and astonishment, they stared at it. At the mysterious, blue alien planet that made seemingly no sense whatsoever. Book 1: Act 1: Chapter 7: Part I The station''s security inspector took a quick peek at the console and saw nothing of interest. It was the start of another tedious, uneventful day. He readied himself for a snooze. The inspection command''s confined space made it simple for him to sneak in some sleep during working hours. With the majority of work done by AI, and most coworkers as disinterested as he was, not many noticed the lack of attention to work. The sudden chirp of the console alarm snapped him out of his drowsiness. Startled yet sluggish, he reached out to silence the alarm. With weary irritation, he then rubbed his eyes and focused on the monitor''s readings. ¡°I need your eyes on this, sir.¡± Responding to the commotion, a military officer nearby turned and advanced towards the inspector''s workstation. ¡°What now? Can''t it wait?¡± the obese officer grumbled back at him, before taking a sip of coffee. ¡°We have irregular scanner readings in sector AZ-12.¡± ¡°What about''em readings?¡± The officer took up a doughnut and began to munch on it leisurely. ¡°There''s something off with these figures.¡± ¡°They look normal enough to me,¡± the officer''s words came out muffled, accompanied by bits of the doughnut spilling from his mouth. ¡°Large thermal anomalies are detected, but it''s as if they''re coming from nowhere.¡± The officer moved closer to the workstation and peered at the monitor. He glanced at the readings for a moment before biting into his doughnut again. ¡°Probably just another bug.¡± he said dismissively, before taking another sip of coffee. ¡°That seems unlikely,¡± the inspector said. ¡°Given the recent installation of our systems, a malfunction is quite improbable.¡± ¡°This gear''s always on the fritz,¡± the officer grumbled. ¡°Like that¡¯s a rare occurrence.¡± He turned around and prepared to leave. ¡°Is it not worth investigating further?¡± The officer paused and cast a brief look over his shoulder at the inspector. ¡°You''re joking, right?¡± he snorted, then turned his gaze away, taking another sip of his coffee. ¡°I glanced over those readings. It''s likely nothing¡ªstray gamma bursts or solar flares, that sort of thing.¡± With the matter apparently settled in his mind, the officer walked off. ¡°Drop it and get back to work.¡± ***** In another place, warehouse worker Ross Scott grappled with the agonizing prospect of leaving his bed. A loud buzz from the alarm clock beside his bed stirred him awake, his eyes opening slowly. ¡°Feck! It¡¯s morning already?¡± Ross moaned. ¡°Things were just about to get good in the dream I was having! I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve ever seen so many hot women in one place before!¡± He suddenly looked uncomfortable. ¡°Well¡­I think they were women¡­whatever. At least they weren¡¯t furries.¡± Clad only in his underwear, he sleepily shuffled to the kitchen, which was an easy task given his apartment''s size, hardly larger than a typical bathroom. ¡°Okey den! Now what to have for breakfast? Oh right! I don¡¯t eat breakfast! Because I¡¯m poor!¡± he loudly lamented, while flailing his hands in frustration. Screw this, I¡¯m going to work. Perhaps if I¡¯m lucky, I can mug some of the homeless for their chimp-change. I think they¡¯ve installed one of dem mini burger vending machines at the warehouse. Those things are freaken sweet! he thought. He made his way back to the bedroom, yanked open a drawer next to his bed, snatched his personal ID card, and slid it into his wallet. Wouldn¡¯t want to miss this! I still remember all the bullshit I had to go through the last time I forgot to take it with me. He stepped out of his apartment complex and began his customary walk to work. The only route available to Ross was one suffused with the predictability that station authorities rigorously enforced. His movements were confined to a sequence of permitted visits to approved sectors, punctuated by the rigid schedule they imposed upon him¡ªwake, work, home, sleep¡ªeach day at Terra Prime station a mirror of the last. There was scant comfort in Ross''s status when cast against Earth''s plight, where he would have inhaled through filters, thanks to the fumes of rampant industry and teeming populations. It was deemed more expedient, more economical to mandate masks than to invest in a cleaner future. The station''s stern peace, upheld by a force more military than police, smothered most crime, except for the infractions of the law keepers themselves¡ªoffenses silently acknowledged, for the fate of those who probed too deeply was as transparent as the air he breathed. Alternatives simmered beneath the surface of course, accessible to those whose pockets were deep, aligning with the station''s adage that solvency equated to freedom. This shadow system mirrored the dynamics of most Terran outposts, where coin dictated liberties and the collective gaze turned away, indifference prevailing so long as the elite remained unbothered. A public service announcement flowed from the station¡¯s loudspeaker system as it activated. ¡°We here at Terra Prime Central are devoted to ensuring all human resources perform their duties with maximum devotion! Never forget¡­a good work ethic is a crucial steppingstone towards earning employee perks! Always remember to show up on time to avoid pay penalization and reduced benefit! A happy worker is a prosperous worker!¡± Ross stopped in his tracks and started to vent loudly in the street¡¯s center. ¡°Well, thank you for reminding me, misses speaker system! I¡¯d almost forgotten how much I just love being a drone, slaving away for barely any pay at all! All the while worrying about next month¡¯s paycheck being shredded because I wasn¡¯t big enough of a slave for you assholes! All hail my glorious corporate overlords! Well, thank you, misses speaker system, for reminding me! Whatever would I ever do with without you!¡± Close by, passersby gazed at him, perplexed, but their stares were brief, and they soon resumed their own affairs. Ross resumed his walk to work. A formation of three gunships soared by him. The ceaseless hum of the flying vehicles was hard to ignore, their noise echoing off the oppressive architecture that dictated a low-flight ceiling within the station. With no natural gravity or air to speak of, the life support systems shouldered the task of simulating these essentials, thus enabling the flying vehicles to navigate the station''s environment. The design of Terra Central Station prioritized function; its structure more reminiscent of a dystopian detention center than a place of habitation. Nevertheless, it boasted a slight edge over the Earth''s despotic reality, attracting a steady influx of job seekers. Among the chosen was Ross, whose authorization for transfer marked him as one of the ostensibly ''fortunate'' occupants. This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings. Surveillance had become as much a part of the street''s landscape as the cold steel he walked on, each step he took cataloged by cameras with a precision he found as comforting as it was oppressive. His existence to the authorities hinged solely on his ability to blend into the grey tapestry of his warehouse duties. After a long boring walk, Ross finally reached the warehouse where he worked at. The chore of sorting through shipments fell to Ross, work that in any other warehouse might have been assigned to the unerring logic of a machine. Here, however, the quality of the cargo demanded discretion beyond the capacity of silicon and code. A breach in data meant a breach in security, and the authorities found an unsentimental solution in the dispensability of their human screeners. Ross dressed in his work gear. Upon entering his area of the warehouse, he fetched a PDA from his pocket. Okey den! So, what stuff do we have coming in today? He examined the shipment catalog. Looks like we¡¯ve got a bunch of shit from the Terran Defense Forces this time around. Oh boy! Aren¡¯t those guys trustworthy or what! he mused sarcastically. God knows what¡¯s in this shit. Not that I¡¯m dumb enough to ask. He slid the PDA back into his pocket. Time to go to work, I guess. Ross piloted his forklift through the aisles until he found the shipments. He stopped and engaged the attached scanner, which projected multiple laser beams across the shipment. The ensuing beep indicated a successful scan, and Ross scrutinized the resulting readings. ID: 15-456-24 Type: Restricted Sender: Classified Recipient: Classified Delivery: Route 545 Contents: Classified Status: Authorized. Surprised, Ross noted the irregularity. Restricted shipments were usually separated from regular cargo and dealt with by military services rather than the civilian mail, but there were no soldiers to be seen. Got some classified stuff here, eh? Whatever. He put the matter out of his mind and carried on with his tasks. Unaware, Ross was closely monitored by four vigilant observers. From behind a broad glass window on the second floor, they intently followed his every action as he transferred the enigmatic shipment into the delivery vehicle. ***** The general inhaled from his right-hand cigar, pivoted from the broad window, and met Andreas''s gaze, the latter of whom held a whiskey glass. ¡°I assume you expect the credit transfer to be immediate?¡± The general spoke with a voice that grated, rough and disagreeable to the ears. ¡°Of course.¡± Andreas plastered on a counterfeit smile. The general returned the gesture with a forced smile of his own, though it appeared less genuine and vanished swiftly. The general, embodying the late-middle age spread of his rank¡ªchubby, with a shiny bald patch, and a stature lacking height¡ªshowed little patience for small talk, unlike Andreas, their distinct pasts fostering unalike temperaments. The general''s eyes wandered off slowly, and he commenced a measured walk around the room. ¡°Be aware, there are voices within the administration casting doubts on this venture''s wisdom.¡± He returned the cigar to his mouth for another puff. Once more, Andreas smiled, achieving a surprisingly persuasive effect that neared sincerity. ¡°There will always be those with doubt in their hearts,¡± Andreas presented an additional counterfeit grin. ¡°Thankfully, I¡¯m not burdened with having a heart.¡± The general, foregoing a response in kind, spoke with increased seriousness. ¡°Doubt should not be dismissed as mere weakness. It signifies awareness, a grasp of one''s own limitations alongside their capabilities. The truly weak are those deluded by their own sense of invincibility, who inevitably fall first. A lack of doubt precludes introspection. And without introspection, history''s errors echo endlessly¡­¡± The general ceased his pacing abruptly and cast a scrutinizing look at Andreas. ¡°A reality you''re surely acquainted with, given the recent abundance of missteps under your watch.¡± Andreas stopped smiling. ¡°The rat you speak of has been taken care of, along with any unfortunate souls connected to him.¡± His serious demeanor shifted, making room for a smug expression. ¡°Dust and memories, general.¡± ¡°Are you certain the matter has been sufficiently addressed?¡± ¡°Absolutely,¡± Andreas replied. ¡°Fear tends to discourage curiosity.¡± ¡°For the moment¡­¡± The general resumed his pacing around the room. ¡°I''ll concede, Andreas, your outcomes have been more favorable than anticipated, even with the obstacles we''ve encountered.¡± The general drew in another breath from his cigar. ¡°Understand, it¡¯s not our custom to place trust in¡­outsiders, especially not gangsters. My skepticism was warranted, given our usual protocols.¡± Another puff of smoke came as the general indulged in his cigar once more. ¡°The interception of our last vessel made it clear that unconventional methods were necessary. That''s the sole reason we''ve even entertained the idea of your involvement.¡± His eyes flicked toward Andreas. ¡°This is not to demean your capabilities.¡± Once more, Andreas demonstrated his remarkable talent for convincing fake smiles to the general. ¡°Your caution is understood, if misplaced,¡± Andreas said. ¡°The quality of garbage littering the street these days tends to be rather¡­inconsistent.¡± Stopping mid-pace, the general turned his attention to him. ¡°And I take it you¡¯re a ¡®higher quality¡¯ piece of garbage, then?¡± Andreas¡¯s amusement was clear as he gloated over the General¡¯s phrasing. ¡°In a manner of speaking, yes.¡± The general returned a fleeting, half-hearted gloat before his expression turned serious again. ¡°I trust you''re fully alert to the fallout that will ensue if this operation falters?¡± the general asked sternly. ¡°You, above anyone, should recognize the imperative of tying up all loose ends. Any breach in confidentiality, and we will be forced to terminate all parties involved.¡± The general''s threats didn''t elicit a reaction from Andreas, no stranger to danger as a seasoned criminal, though this particular gamble was unprecedented in its reward. ¡°I''m fully aware of the stakes.¡± Andreas stayed serene and poised. ¡°Every detail has been meticulously orchestrated. Our plans are airtight. There''s no room for error.¡± ¡°They''re mustn''t be!¡± the general said with a menacing growl. ¡°Our capacity to erase existences surpasses any attempt to evade us. Succeed flawlessly, or face the void.¡± Again, no flinch came from Andreas. ¡°Your fears are misplaced,¡± he said. ¡°The ship at our disposal is beyond suspicion. The rebels have neither the wit nor the resources to uncover us. The cargo will pass quietly through their grasp.¡± ¡°What is your strategy for moving the cargo to your ship?¡± the general inquired. ¡°Ship logs are a mandatory record; the decrees forbid their removal.¡± ¡°The law seems irrelevant at this juncture, wouldn''t you say?¡± Following his statement, Andreas¡¯s demeanor shifted to one of smug confidence. ¡°That''s not the issue,¡± the general said. ¡°Docking triggers automatic log updates. It''s this very oversight that led to the demise of our previous endeavor. Our opposition monitors with an eagle eye, and they infiltrate our defenses with alarming regularity.¡± Continuous unrest from rebels in the outer sectors had been a thorn in the Federation''s side, a problem intensified by some colonies'' open revolts, something that was clearly aggravating the general, as his voice momentarily took on a spiteful tone. ¡°Simply disabling the logs is out of the question,¡± the general said. ¡°We''re operating in the grey, beyond the bounds of the law; as far as any official account goes, this is happening in a void. ¡°True.¡± After taking a sip of whisky and pausing to enjoy it, Andreas walked over to a desk, set the glass down, and refocused on the general. ¡°Worry not, general. We''ve devised a foolproof solution already.¡± ¡°Is that so?¡± the general asked indifferently, pausing to scrutinize a wall-hung artwork and slowly inhaling from his cigar. ¡°Explain this supposed solution.¡± ¡°A trivial loophole really,¡± Andreas said. ¡°The logs refresh only when navigation boots up.¡± Expecting more details, the general''s gaze rested on him, but Andreas stayed silent. ¡°And?¡± he asked impatiently. The general''s vexed tone and demeanor elicited a fleeting smirk from an amused Andreas. ¡°Not the patient type, I see.¡± ¡°The tempo of war pauses for no one,¡± the general replied swiftly, his tone stern. ¡°Cut to the chase and do it now.¡± Andreas flashed the general another counterfeit smile, albeit a quick one this time. ¡°Of course.¡± Noticing the general''s escalating irritation, he chose to get to the point. ¡°We''ve reengineered the shuttle''s mainframe. It''s now attracted to heat signatures¡ªsidestepping the usual routes and ignoring the station itself.¡± He paused, allowing the general time to process the information. ¡°The target, naturally, is our ship.¡± The general took a moment to contemplate the information. ¡°I see,¡± he replied eventually, and then drew a particularly deep puff from his cigar. ¡°Am I to infer that the plan involves a straightforward retrieval of you and the cargo by your crew?¡± ¡°Precisely,¡± Andreas replied. ¡°After our departure, the disputed territories become mere waypoints.¡± The general''s frown of disgust indicated that his words had struck a nerve. ¡°There¡¯s nothing to dispute!¡± the general said with a sharpness that bordered on barking. ¡°These territories remain under the firm control of the Terran Federation, despite the attempts of terrorists to challenge lawful authority.¡± To Andreas, petty politics were less a thorn and more a ripe field, his indifference to their pettiness eclipsed by the lure of material enrichment. ¡°Of course.¡± He gave another unauthentic smile, aiming to placate the general. The general''s gaze lingered before he pivoted towards a couch, made himself comfortable, and puffed on his cigar once more. ¡°What is the timing of your departure?¡± the general asked eventually. ¡°At the close of our current venture.¡± The general, now seemingly more at ease, filled the room with more of the cigar''s unpleasant aroma as he smoked. Eventually, he spoke to Andreas, not bothering to look at him. ¡°We shall soon see if your strategy is as potent as you claim,¡± he said. ¡°Success, and your pockets will swell with wealth.¡± He drew a final puff from his cigar before snuffing it out in an ashtray close at hand. ¡°Fall short, and there will be no time to reflect on your downfall,¡± he said as he rose from the couch. Andreas kept his eyes on the general as the latter strode past and departed from the room. Book 1: Act 1: Chapter 7: Part II With a groan, Ross exerted himself to force the hefty shipment deeper inside the van, thwarted by the forklift''s excessive height for the space. His success was fleeting, soon replaced by a surge of frustration. ¡°Oh, common!¡± Fatigued, Ross collapsed onto the van floor for a brief respite. Panting, he glared at the stubborn shipment, as if it mocked him with its immovability. His irritation intensified with every moment he spent glaring at it, prompting him to rise abruptly in anger. ¡°You know, one would¡¯ve thought that we¡¯d invented something by now to make this bullshit easier!¡± he ranted, his hands gesturing wildly. ¡°Like a cool exoskeleton, or something! It¡¯s the twentieth-fourth century, god fucken damnit! What¡¯s the fucken point in living in the fucken future, if you don¡¯t get to actually live in the fucken future?!¡± The grand promise of automation eradicating manual labor turned out to be nothing more than a pipe dream. AI, while prevalent in performing tasks like numerical analysis and data processing, didn¡¯t usher in the revolutionary change many anticipated. Robots, in theory, had clear advantages over human labor: no need for nurturing, feeding, compensation, breaks, or social care. The crux of the problem lay in their narrow expertise. They could outshine humans in specific tasks but lacked adaptability. This inherent rigidity, coupled with their convoluted production and costly upkeep, rendered the idea of widespread robot reliance a financial sinkhole. Not to mention there was a sense of redundancy in the whole idea: Humanity¡¯s planets teemed with excess populations, making the demand for robotic labor almost laughable. This redundancy extended to both civilian and military applications. Why throw away billions in credits on high-end tech when multitudes were willing to risk their lives for a fraction of the cost? Plus, the combat efficiency of WarBots was passable at best, not to mention their exorbitant price tag. Ross kept exerting force on the hefty crate, endeavoring to push it further back in the van. As he neared the point of giving up, a spark of ingenuity flashed in his mind. Why not just use a gravity disc to make this stuff easier? He departed from the van and proceeded to the storage room. Post-foraging, he returned with a GravDisc in hand. Resembling plates in size, these anti-gravity devices were designed to be placed beneath objects for easy movement. Safe usage demanded precise calibration; a requirement Ross overlooked. With little concern, he dropped the disc onto the van''s floor, knelt beside it, and began to look for the activation switch. How do I activate this fucking crap?! After a brief search, he found the button, embedded on the left side of the device. The anti-gravity shockwave from the disc erupted suddenly, catapulting Ross into the air. He hit the nearby van interior, knocking him out immediately. A safety mechanism then shut the disc down. The cargo, miraculously intact, had been moved to its intended spot by the blast. A different worker passing by observed the open cargo compartment. ¡°Can''t these idiots ever shut the damn cargo bay before they bugger off?¡± the worker muttered under his breath. Oblivious to Ross''s unconscious state, he forcefully closed the cargo doors. ***** Andreas navigated the van into the hangar bay, his stolen worker''s uniform allowing him to avoid scrutiny from the sparse number of staff inside. The hangar appeared almost empty, with few personnel left. All this was a meticulously orchestrated charade. The hangars'' closure under the guise of maintenance was part of Andreas''s scheme, where each element was calculated with precision. The stakes were high, for failure meant not only the loss of potential wealth but a far greater cost. Moving further into the hangar''s depths, Andreas brought the van to a stop near a diminutive cargo shuttle, observing it through the windshield. Stolen novel; please report. The cargo compartment of the shuttle seemed precisely sized to accommodate the van, intentionally so; a more substantial ship risked attracting scrutiny. Andreas fished a small remote from his pocket, aimed it at the shuttle, and pressed a button. Gradually, the storage compartment started to open. He maneuvered the van into the cargo space, exited it, and made his way to the cockpit. Once seated comfortably in the pilot''s chair, he initiated the engine startup sequence. As anticipated, the clandestine protocols he had embedded in the system sprung to life. At this juncture, Andreas''s role was passive. The covert programming he¡¯d insinuated into the system would autonomously execute the remaining steps. The shuttle gently rose from the hangar floor, making its way toward the exit. It gradually moved through the energy barrier that divided the station''s interior and the void of space, moving steadily away from the station. The covert protocols appeared to be functioning as intended. Andreas put his hands behind his head and leaned back. However, this feeling of ease was not to last long. Near the controls, a sequence of warning sirens blared, accompanied by an alert from the on-board AI. ¡°Warning! Warning! Malfunction! Malfunction! The shuttle is off course! The shuttle is off course!¡± Andreas remained serene, his expression bordering on disinterest. Well of course it is you piece of junk, he murmured under his breath. He casually stretched his neck and let out a soft yawn. Indifferently, he peered at the warning-laden control monitor. Shocked by what he saw, his eyes ballooned in size, and he swiftly lunged at the monitor, gripping it fervently with both hands. ¡°What?! No!¡± Even though the shuttle was no longer using its navigational computer for destination guidance, it could still display its present location in space. The data showed that Andreas was not only off-course from his intended destination but was also continuing to drift farther from it. How is this possible?! Andreas clutched the nav computer firmly, panic evident in his eyes as sweat beads formed on his forehead. This shuttle should be en route to the boys! Aren''t the protocols executing? Where the blast is this thing heading?! ***** ¡°Eh¡­sir?¡± the scanner technician said, his antennas twitching anxiously for a moment, as he reviewed the new readings on his monitor. Close by, Bridge-Commander Teflar rapidly turned to face the scanner technician. ¡°What seems to be the issue?¡± ¡°An unidentified ship appears to be approaching us,¡± the operator replied. ¡°The ship in question is traced to one of the nearby orbital facilities.¡± Silence hung from Teflar, but his snout''s expression unambiguously showed his swift grasp of the dire situation. He instantly reached for his communicator. ***** The unceasing buzz elicited an irritated groan from Kaz, who grudgingly rolled over in bed to grab his communicator, whiskers quivering in mild vexation. ¡°Captain on the line,¡± he replied, his speech slurred somewhat by late-night drowsiness. There was a near-hysterical timbre in Teflar''s voice. ¡°It is imperative that you report to the bridge immediately!¡± Ordinarily, Kaz might have questioned the motive behind the late call, yet these occurrences had recently become routine for him. He now regarded it as simply another facet of this unusual mission. ¡°Twenty minutes and we''ll be there.¡± ¡°Time is of the essence!¡± Teflar said anxiously. ¡°You must report immediately!¡± ¡°Acknowledged.¡± Disconnecting the communicator, Kaz carefully shifted into a sitting position, then stood as his feet contacted the floor. Agozi had likewise been stirred from her sleep at this juncture. ¡°What''s the emergency this time?¡± she murmured; her words laden with drowsiness. ¡°Teflar has summoned us to the bridge.¡± ¡°At these hours?¡± she spoke in a low voice, all the while rubbing her eyes. She pushed herself out of bed. In contrast to Kaz, the late-night calls still bothered her, evident in her visible irritation. ¡°I¡¯ll go get us some refreshment.¡± ¡°No time to spare, Teflar demands our immediate presence.¡± A quick jerk passed through Agozi''s whiskers and snout. ¡°Go figure.¡± ***** The bridge crew was noticeably on high alert when they arrived. Right away, Teflar greeted them as they entered the bridge. ¡°They¡¯re coming!¡± he said anxiously. They swiftly grasped Teflar¡¯s reference. A fleeting twitch in their whiskers showed brief agitation, soon replaced by calmness. ¡°You''re suggesting they''re in the process of making contact with us?¡± Kaz asked. ¡°Confirmed,¡± Teflar replied. ¡°We have detected an incoming shuttle, traced to one of the nearby orbital facilities, that is on route to our location.¡± Kaz gave himself time to completely grasp the situation''s significance. ¡°Deliberation is not an option,¡± he said sternly. ¡°First-contact is upon us! We need to quickly mobilize all key staff and assemble at the hangar.¡± Book 1: Act 1: Chapter 7: Part III/Act 1 Final Kaz and Agozi rushed into the hangar area, followed closely by a team of engineers and support staff. Without breaking his stride, Kaz issued a sharp command into his communicator. ¡°Move it inside, quickly!¡± They stopped near the particle barrier, the boundary between the ship and outer space, and waited with growing anxiety for the craft to enter. The anticipated moment soon unfolded. Gently, Minboa''s gravitational beams secured the craft, easing it towards the hangar. As the shuttle inched through, the particle shield resonated with a low hum-buzz. Kaz¡¯s whiskers twitched in surprise as he observed the shuttle''s diminutive size, not much larger than a small cargo transport. ¡°This envoy is smaller than anticipated.¡± ¡°Well, it''s a stroke of luck it''s not bigger,¡± Agozi said without looking at him, her eyes never leaving the advancing craft. ¡°Our hangar might not have coped with any grandiose arrivals. It''s not exactly cut out for showmanship.¡± Despite its top-tier status and unparalleled design in its class, the Minboa was not designed as a carrier or a vessel for diplomacy. Meetings with new civilizations typically took place planet-side, a process initiated after preliminary conversations with local representatives. Lacking facilities for diplomatic engagements, Minboa''s hangar prioritized vital equipment over space for envoys. ¡°This implies they know more than we assumed,¡± Kaz said, his whiskers giving a brief twitch. ¡°A small shuttle isn''t a random choice; it''s a sign of advanced technological insight, making calculated decisions like this.¡± ¡°All the same, sending an envoy straight away seems a bit rushed.¡± She maintained her gaze on the shuttle''s approach. ¡°Wouldn''t it have been more prudent to establish communications first?¡± Kaz paused briefly to contemplate her observation. ¡°Perhaps this is simply their standard protocol?¡± Agozi''s voice adopted a subtly mocking tone. ¡°So it turns out we''ve met our match in rudeness,¡± she said, a playful twitch of her nose betraying her amusement. ¡°The Langa and Pretenti are going to have a field day with this news.¡± The lack of amusement in Kaz''s demeanor was evident, as his unyielding snout revealed a touch of concern. ¡°It''s uncommon for a Mevik to appear so unexpectedly, more so for a crucial matter like this.¡± A subtle curl of his lip exposed a few teeth. He opened his mouth just a fraction, as though to speak, but then closed it without saying anything. The gaze of everyone present tracked the craft, as the beam guided it steadily and cautiously deeper into the hangar. When it settled in the center, the beams shut off, and the shuttle landed softly, its contact with the steel floor producing a slight clank. The craft remained unresponsive, displaying no signs of activity. The extended period of idleness led to an increasing expression of concerns among the onlookers. With a puzzled expression, Agozi turned towards Kaz. ¡°What are they up to?¡± she asked, a fleeting flicker of her whiskers betraying her perplexity. ¡°What''s holding them back?¡± ¡°A slower pace might be normal for them,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°We should remain patient.¡± While discontented by the sluggish progression, Agozi chose not to engage in an argument with Kaz. Hours went by, yet there was still no sign of any activity. Agozi sat on the chilly hangar floor, her eyes staring listlessly at the ground. Kaz, on the other hand, was attentively monitoring the alien craft for any activity. Yet another hour went by. Agozi got up from the floor, her frustration evident in her manner and tone. ¡°How much longer are they going to keep us waiting?!¡± Kaz¡¯s gaze turned towards the craft, his snout bearing a stern expression. ¡°This inactivity is unusual and concerning.¡± He shifted his attention to Master-Engineer Kesto, who was nearby. ¡°Have we evaluated the craft''s structural condition?¡± ¡°Scanned multiple times,¡± Kesto replied. ¡°No damage.¡± Intently, they watched the spacecraft, their unease deepening with every moment of thought. ***** Andreas experienced a rare surge of fear in his stomach. He moved closer to the one-way window of his cockpit, surveying the scene with his eyes. The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. Despite their humanoid looks, the figures outside were unmistakably non-human. Speculations about aliens had persisted among scientists for generations, but definitive proof had remained elusive. Now, it appeared they had it. Fear coursed through Andreas as he observed the aliens approaching his craft. ¡°My gun, where did I leave it?!¡± Andreas exclaimed in a rare burst of panic, frantically searching for his handgun. Realizing he might have left it in the cargo hold, he quickly refocused his attention, albeit anxiously, on the three approaching aliens. Two of the aliens, dressed in blue jumpsuits, looked remarkably like cats, and the third seemed to be a figment of a mole''s imagination. These cat-like creatures, one black as midnight and the other a sharp yellow, stood significantly shorter than himself. Leading the group, the tallest of the cat-like aliens came to a stop in front of the spacecraft, the other two following suit. Andreas scrutinized their behavior intently. The taller alien seemed to be conveying a message to its companions. Alien as they were, Andreas could tell from their body language that there was a problem. They look hesitant, he thought. The taller cat humanoid, the one with the black fur, engaged the smaller mole-esque alien in conversation before progressing towards the shuttle entry. Cold sweat appeared on Andreas''s brow. He noticed the aliens were weaponless, yet he kept his alertness. He switched on the shuttle''s cameras, carefully scanning the surroundings for any danger. The trio of aliens had taken their places near the shuttle entrance. The hangar itself housed a diverse array of creatures, quite a few exhibiting similarities to the cat-like humanoids outside his ship. All of them appeared diminutive compared to him, with a good number not even matching half his height. However, this did little to ease his mind, for his movie knowledge suggested that the smallest aliens usually had the deadliest weapons. Andreas paused to consider his choices. He quickly deduced that barring the aliens'' entry to the shuttle was pointless. Furthermore, remaining in the shuttle was not a sustainable option, especially with insufficient supplies and an inoperable navigational computer. Additionally, the general¡¯s chilling cautionary words lingered in his thoughts. Andreas remembered them well. Retreat was not an option. He needed to decide, and quickly. Remaining here only extends the inevitable. Feeling resigned, Andreas exited the cockpit and walked to the airlock. His hand paused above the control panel, poised to open the shuttle''s door and confront the unknown. The aliens by the entrance jerked back in surprise when the airlock emitted a sharp depressurization noise and began to open gradually. Andreas stepped out of the shuttle with decisive steps, presenting a commanding figure. Concealing his inner apprehension, he adopted a poised stance, arms tucked, and fists clenched for self-control. Towering above even his human peers, he stood prominently over everyone in the hangar, dwarfing even the black-furred, cat-like alien. Andreas had made a strategic decision. Conscious of the risks in showing weakness to possible foes, he suppressed any sign of emotion in his gaze, wary of the aliens¡¯ motives. He would have to play his hand cautiously if he wanted to prevent disaster in an already disastrous situation. ***** Agozi subtly edged toward Kaz, maintaining a discreet demeanor. ¡°Is it just me, or is there something off about that?¡± she whispered before casting a doubtful glance at their guest. ¡°Specify what you mean,¡± Kaz replied, his tone indicating a lack of clarity about Agozi''s statement. Agozi¡¯s voice took on a mocking edge, though it couldn''t mask her nervousness. ¡°Notice how it¡¯s fixating on us¡­¡± Her whiskers flickered with a mix of apprehension and bemusement as she alternated her gaze between the alien and Kaz. ¡°Ever seen a gaze that intense? Or a stance so rigid?¡± Her expression turned into a blend of worry and dry humor as she met Kaz¡¯s eyes. ¡°Really sets the mood, doesn¡¯t it?¡± Agozi''s wariness made sense, seeing how strangely the alien acted. Despite cultural differences, key non-verbal signals, especially in facial and hand gestures, were common across species. But the alien¡¯s posture and motions were anything but typical or friendly. Immobile as if caught in a temporal freeze, its small eyes, set deep in its face, fixed them with a cold, menacing look. Its expression seemed to accuse them of a grave insult, but no provocation warranted such an alarmingly icy attitude, verging on the deranged. The alien''s large size made the scene even more ominous. Kaz cast another brief look at the alien. ¡°It would seem its posture reflects some displeasure.¡± ¡°Really now?¡± Agozi¡¯s response dripped with sarcasm, her whiskers quivering. ¡°Could¡¯ve missed that one¡­¡± The alien stood still, maintaining its posture. A moment of stillness lingered. ¡°It¡¯s really taking its time for the opening move, huh?¡± She looked at Kaz. ¡°That is typically how it goes, right?¡± ¡°Ordinarily,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°Still, there are precedents for variation. Perhaps it expects a gesture from us.¡± ¡°What¡¯s our move, then?¡± Agozi asked. ¡°Do we step up or keep fiddling with our whiskers?¡± ***** Andreas couldn¡¯t understand their speech, though the aliens at least appeared to communicate verbally like humans. At least they¡¯re not barfing up some incomprehensible gibberish. he mused irately. This was of scant help; their speech was as foreign as any other unknown language. Fortunately, he possessed an alternative means of understanding intentions: by carefully observing the nuances in speech inflection and modulation, he could infer the speaker''s emotional state and likely motives. In a past encounter, Andreas had skillfully engaged in negotiations with a rival gang leader, a situation that ended unfavorably for the latter. His keen ability to interpret the subtleties in tone, coupled with his cultural insight, allowed him to understand their intentions, despite the language difference, ensuring his safety. Yet, these were not gang affiliates, and he was unarmed. Should aggression arise, his options were limited. Currently, the cat-like aliens were the only ones engaged in communication, speaking in an alien tongue that eerily resembled human speech, yet carried a more refined tone. The variance in pitch hinted that the smaller, yellow alien might be female, while the larger one possessed a voice lower in pitch than expected, not quite fitting a masculine profile. While Andreas considered how to interact, a group of diminutive, mole-like aliens appeared from a sliding steel door in the area''s upper-right corner. One alien clutched an object, the details of which were unclear to Andreas. It moved toward the larger cat-like creature and offered the item. After the black, feline-like creature was handed the device, it rotated to face Andreas with a focused stare. Andreas was left to guess the device''s function, though its initial look didn''t imply weaponry. Abruptly, the black feline-like alien moved closer. Startled for a moment by its movement towards him, Andreas nonetheless kept a cool exterior. The cat-like alien advanced deliberately, stopping just a few feet from him. It extended its right hand in a straightforward manner, offering him the device. ¡°Place this in your ear and mouth to facilitate communication,¡± the black feline-like creature suggested in unaccented English. Andreas¡¯s previously composed exterior collapsed utterly. ¡°You speak my language?!¡± Bonus Chapter: Unreleased Artwork & Manga Hello! It''s me, the Master of Disillusionment and the creator of this series! Before we proceed to Act Two, I would like to share with you some of the original artwork that, unfortunately, was either omitted or replaced. I started writing this series nearly five years ago, undergoing numerous revisions before feeling ready to present my work to the world. A significant change during this period was the evolution of the header artwork. I initially collaborated with a different artist who created over ten illustrations (yes, ten!) for me. These illustrations were exclusively in black and white, but color was subsequently added. However, due to reasons I prefer not to discuss, there ensued a series of complications that led me to hire a new artist. It was a pity, as many of these earlier illustrations were quite good. Instead of discarding them, I¡¯d like to use this bonus chapter to showcase the original art, allowing the world a glimpse of what ¡®might¡¯ve been¡¯. Since much of this art dates back to an earlier time, there are some discrepancies between the imagery in the original art and what ultimately appeared in the final draft of the manuscript. Furthermore, the original chapter order was slightly different when these images were created, so the header numbers should be taken with a grain of salt. Some of the later ones even include content that won¡¯t appear until Act Two, which isn¡¯t out yet, but despite this, I don¡¯t consider them spoilers. In addition to the illustrations, there were plans to include manga pages. The concept entailed each chapter featuring one or two manga-style pages illustrating key moments. However, this was ultimately discontinued for cost-saving reasons, though three manga pages had been produced before the decision. Instead of discarding them, I''ll be sharing these pages here as well. Please note that the dialogue in the manga pages might differ slightly from the final story. I won¡¯t claim that the older versions look better or worse than the newer ones; both possess their own strengths and weaknesses. Generally speaking, I believe the original artist excelled in depicting environments, while the current artist shows greater proficiency in character design and shading. In any case, here are the images! Kaz and Agozi greet each other at a spaceport. This scene was the original opening of the story but was removed for pacing reasons. The encounter with Snikers on the bridge. Contrary to the new version, this one includes the Cisians operating various control equipment. Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original. The moment Master-Engineer Kesto and his Prol team discover the human body. In this depiction, the Prol are green, boar-esque creatures, whereas in the final version, they resemble moles. This change was made because it seemed more logical to me, and retrospectively, the concept of green pig-like aliens appeared somewhat absurd. Xeno-Biologist Okens, along with Agozi and Kaz, examines the human body in the medical morgue. Agozi seeks a mating encounter with Kaz in the storage room. Humorously, the original sketch portrayed Agozi as even more aggressive! Unfortunately, I no longer have that early sketch. Agozi & Co are astonished upon exiting slipspace and being greeted by the sight of Earth. Ross loads the secret cargo while Andreas and the general observe from an elevated position. Andreas is astonished at the sight of aliens outside his ship. This illustration exemplifies the original artist''s superior skill in environments but inferior ability in character expressions. The ship''s cockpit is rendered with greater detail and intricacy compared to the new version, which was based on this original. Andreas and Ross are examined by Okens and Zelana in the medical bay, an event that will occur in Act 2. Noticeably, Zelana has a darker fur design here. Although the original version featured no images of genitals, I have added black boxes as a precautionary measure to ensure consistency with RR''s rules on nudity. Zelana cowers in fear in her chair. I''ll refrain from detailing the reasons to avoid spoilers. Kaz''s awkward first encounter with Zelana in her office during Chapter 1 Kaz and Agozi intervene with an armed Mevik patrol en route to their ship. Ditto. That is all! I hope you enjoyed this cut content. Act 2 will probably come out March or April. Book 1: Act 2: Chapter 1: Part I The unexpected outburst from the alien prompted Kaz to swiftly withdraw his hand and back off, his whiskers and snout visibly thrown into a momentary disarray. The surrounding onlookers in the hangar mimicked his response, albeit to a lesser extent. The alien''s small eyes gazed down upon him, hinting at an enigmatic emotion or inner conflict that Kaz couldn''t grasp. Their gaze possessed a chilling intensity. Kaz couldn¡¯t grasp why his measured approach had been met with aggression. He had meticulously maintained a calm and civilized presence, consciously slowing his movements and steering clear of any potentially threatening gestures. Perhaps this was the result of a translator error? Upon entering the system, Minboa¡¯s supercomputers had begun their task of translating the alien dialect, scrutinizing every broadcast with AI linguistic programs. Theoretically, this intensive analysis should¡¯ve led to a usable translation framework for basic exchanges. Yet, none of the computer-processed material had been approved through manual checks. This duty was slated for Xeno-Psychologist Zelana and the linguistic division, who had not yet managed to review it. Though impressively accurate on their own, the AI translations still fell short of perfection. Complicating matters, the broadcasts required an unexpected amount of decryption which slowed the analysis process. It would''ve been preferable had events unfolded more deliberately, Kaz mused irately. He gave Agozi, who stood at a distance from the group, a brief look that unveiled a flicker of uncertainty before his focus shifted back to the alien. ***** After overcoming the shock, Andreas observed the body language of the black-furred cat alien for a moment. His inadvertent outburst had visibly unsettled the creature. But was it frightened or simply caught off guard? The nuanced difference bore significant weight. Facing annihilation was decidedly not on his agenda. The strange device in its right hand captured Andreas¡¯s attention. Peering at the device, he speculated it might serve as a translator, albeit its form was unfamiliar, diverging significantly from human equivalents. He chose to speak again, this time adopting a careful tone to avoid appearing overly intimidating. ¡°This is for me?¡± he asked, sounding slightly unsure, as he motioned towards the device. ***** The alien had addressed him again, its tone less sharp but far from friendly. Technically, the translators didn''t need both parties to have them installed. This feature aimed to ease first contact by granting understanding to the party lacking a translator. Nevertheless, Kaz couldn''t communicate effectively until the alien completed its installation. ¡°We''re at an impasse in understanding currently, however, that will shortly be remedied.¡± Kaz approached cautiously, extending his hand with deliberate slowness. ¡°Accept this translator device; instructions for configuration will follow.¡± The alien scrutinized the translator in his hand and, after a moment''s hesitation, cautiously reached out towards it. As Kaz handed over the translator, the alien''s grasp revealed the remarkable size of its hand, with five fingers and an expansive palm. After the exchange had finished, he spoke once more. ¡°Now insert it into your mouth.¡± ***** With a skeptical eye, Andreas examined the thing in his hand. Given his linguistic adeptness, translator devices rarely found a place in his repertoire. Those he had witnessed were components of larger systems, distinctively not intended for ingestion. He shot a quick look at the cat alien before his gaze returned to the small, odd device in his palm. Lacking any alternatives, Andreas begrudgingly placed it against his lips and let the device slip inside. The outcome was instantaneous. Andreas''s eyes grew wide in astonishment as the device separated into multiple parts and started to move within his mouth. He felt a quick, mildly uncomfortable sting in one of his molars. Soon after, two pieces exited his mouth, heading toward his temples, where he felt another fleeting sting on each side of his head. ¡°That fleeting discomfort you¡¯re experiencing right now is normal,¡± Kaz said reassuringly. ¡°You¡¯ll be fine.¡± I''m without a care, then, Andreas mused, his thoughts dripping with sarcasm. Yet, he meticulously hid this disdain, keeping his posture and expression neutral. ¡°You should be able to speak to us now,¡± the dark cat alien said. ¡°Can you please say something to confirm that the translator is working?¡± Andreas remained clueless about their intentions, yet the present circumstances suggested they didn''t plan to execute him on the spot¡ªa fact that, in isolation, held little significance. ¡°Care to share exactly who I''m addressing?¡± Andreas asked bluntly, his voice mostly steady but with a slight tremble of nervousness. ¡°Moreover, what''s your intentions concerning me?¡± ***** This time, the alien had spoken slowly and deliberately, giving Kaz a clearer sense of its tone of voice. Deeper than Mevik, less guttural than Prol, he thought. Not that anyone could outdo the Prol in guttural sounds, their raspy and gravelly voices universally deemed an unpleasant listening experience by nearly all races. Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. They stared at each other, another silent and awkward moment passing between them. Realizing the futility of further waiting for a response that seemed unlikely to arrive, especially with a functional translator now installed, Kaz saw fit to introduce himself. ¡°The name''s Kaz, Captain of the Union''s exploration ship, the GEG Minboa,¡± he said, his voice carrying a formal, diplomatic quality. ¡°We are the representatives of a pan-galactic and multi-species alliance known officially as the Galactic Union. Our purpose is to promote the collective well-being of sentient beings through the exploration and mapping of unknown space. In the name of the Union and its member species, you are warmly welcomed aboard our vessel.¡± The alien''s expression briefly shifted, suggesting it was processing the information. Kaz, unfamiliar with its species, struggled to interpret its thoughts. Another awkward silence followed. ¡°Pardon my query, but is there an issue with the¡ª¡± ¡°No,¡± the alien interjected. ¡°It''s performing exactly as intended.¡± ***** From a safe vantage point across the hangar, Xeno-Psychologist Zelana noted the clumsy nature of Kaz''s attempts at interspecies dialogue, an exercise that was clearly outside his area of expertise. His bumbling efforts served only to magnify her own mounting sense of disquiet. Far more disconcerting than Kaz''s lack of diplomatic finesse was the overall absurdity of the exchange. The alien''s peculiar self-presentation, its utter impassivity, and its seemingly arbitrary reactions to Kaz''s awkward efforts suggested a level of disarray that went far beyond social faux pas. She recognized that cultural differences could be a factor, but the level of disarray hinted at something far more disconcerting. Zelana''s ears dipped, and she nibbled her lower lip ¡ª a Langa gesture of nervousness. Something feels wrong, she thought. Her large green eyes observed the unfolding interaction with keen yet anxious interest. ***** Progress, finally, Kaz thought. Now that both sides had translators, they could expect smoother progress moving forward. ¡°We offer our sincerest apologies for the inadequate handling of the situation. The occurrence of first contact at this time was unforeseen and we had hoped to have more time to prepare.¡± After Kaz spoke, the alien shifted its stance slightly and hesitated, then spoke again. ¡°And this ''first contact'' is¡­what, precisely?¡± it asked, voice tinged with both skepticism and accusation. A feeling of dread settled in Kaz''s stomach. Right when progress seemed within reach! He earnestly hoped the translator configurations remained functional. Their failure would severely exacerbate an already complex situation. ¡°Are you not a representative sent to initiate diplomatic discourse between our respective civilizations?¡± ***** The dark cat alien''s question left Andreas stunned, but simultaneously, it made several things clear enough to speculate on what was occurring. These aliens had clearly pegged him for a diplomatic envoy. What he couldn''t figure out was the logic behind their choice. Why single him out? Why not Earth''s leadership or one of the numerous orbital stations? The general''s warning words hadn''t faded from his memory. Disclosing his genuine identity and intentions openly to these creatures would probably get him sent back to Terra and promptly executed. That ending wouldn''t suit his purposes at all. The air grew tense with an awkward pause, throughout which the dark cat creature and every other alien gazed at him, their stares seemingly intensifying. Andreas¡¯s face briefly betrayed a small grin, which he immediately masked. There''s always a way to exploit a bad situation, he mused, grinning inwardly. ***** The alien''s demeanor shifted abruptly. Kaz couldn''t say if this was a good or bad change, but the alien''s posture and mood were clearly transformed. Its flat snout stretched into a wide grin. ¡°My apologies for the clumsy introduction,¡± it said, stepping closer with a tone that was noticeably more cheerful and inviting than before, albeit that wasn¡¯t saying much. In a swift, unexpected motion, the alien extended its right hand toward Kaz, its large, flat palm aimed at him. ¡°The name¡¯s Hugo Andreas!¡± Confused about the gesture, Kaz paused and examined the alien''s open hand. Before he could say anything, the alien quickly withdrew it. ¡°Ah, my mistake!¡± The alien¡¯s grin grew wider still, exposing some of its teeth. ¡°That gesture''s not in your lexicon, is it?¡± Muffled snorts came from the alien''s mouth. Kaz guessed they meant amusement, although he found them irritating. The abrupt change of conduct left Kaz dumbfounded. Its mood seemed as welcoming as an annoyed Kaelar moments before. What''s the reason for this shift? Kaz''s whiskers and snout twitched in thought. After a moment''s pause, he answered. ¡°No, it isn¡¯t.¡± ¡°Think nothing of it¡± the alien said. ¡°Merely a Terran custom.¡± ¡°A greeting gesture, I gather?¡± ¡°A fair assessment.¡± A moment of hesitation crossed Kaz''s face. ¡°You''ve identified as ¡®Terran¡¯, I noticed,¡± Kaz said. ¡°Is that an official term for your kind? A nod to your planet of origin? Or does it signify another concept?¡± ¡°Terra is our home, even if it was technically ¡®Earth¡¯ before,¡± the supposed ¡®Terran¡¯ alien replied. ¡°The purists still favor the original term, though I prefer the newer designation.¡± Its mouth distorted into a strange shape. Though likely intended as friendly, Kaz found the expression unsettling. Kaz looked at some of the Prol standing nearby, his tone and snout professional and cold. ¡°Are you documenting this exchange?¡± ¡°All recorded until requested otherwise,¡± the Prol technician replied. Kaz turned his attention back to the Terran. ¡°Forgive my directness, but was there a reason for the delay between your landing and exit from the ship?¡± Kaz asked. ¡°We were beginning to grow concerned.¡± ¡°Oh, no harm has befallen me,¡± the Terran replied, maintaining a casual and easygoing tone. ¡°However, it seems you''ve made a mistake.¡± Kaz''s posture stiffened slightly, his whiskers twitching. ¡°What mistake?¡± His voice held an undertone of concern. ¡°Given your grand introduction earlier, I''ll take it you''ve mistaken me for someone of consequence?¡± Kaz''s whiskers twitched sharply, more so than usual. ¡°¡­surely that''s the case?¡± The Terran let out a couple of soft, sputtering noises that Kaz ventured were probably its race¡¯s version of laughter, though it sounded quite a lot more grating than the Mevik version. ¡°Certainly, though perhaps not in the capacity you''ve imagined.¡± An awkward pause engulfed the hangar. ¡°Clarification is needed here,¡± Kaz said eventually. ¡°Are you not here as a delegate for diplomatic dialogue?"¡± ¡°I must disappoint you; I am not that.¡± A cold dread washed over Kaz. Though the situation''s details remained unclear, they''d obviously made a grave error. ¡°Who exactly are you, and what''s your purpose here?¡± Blunt phrasing aside, Kaz wasn''t angry, just irritated by the sheer scale of their mess-up. The Terran¡¯s face twisted into a different expression. ¡°Correct me if I''m wrong, but I''m here because of you, am I not?¡± it asked, a hint of passive aggression beneath its polite tone. ¡°Regarding my identity, I''ve already made my introduction.¡± ¡°Yet, you''re neither diplomat nor emissary?¡± Kaz asked. ¡°Your arrival is unrelated to any formal attempt to initiate contact on your government''s behalf?¡± ¡°You''re beginning to understand,¡± the Terran replied, its face once more contorting into an unpleasant shape. Kaz held the Terran¡¯s gaze for a moment, then sharply turned and walked towards Agozi and the rest, who stood a good distance from the shuttle. He cast a swift, over-the-shoulder glance at the Terran when it started to follow, never slowing his pace. ¡°No, remain in place.¡± The Terran stopped, yet its cold, brooding eyes continued to track him. Book 1: Act 2: Chapter 1: Part II/Final Agozi''s eyes followed Kaz as he neared, forcing the alien to wait by the ship. She wasted no time asking questions once he was within earshot. ¡°So what¡¯s up?¡± ¡°We¡¯ve made a mistake,¡± Kaz said, his tone shifting between coldness and irritation. ¡°Wouldn¡¯t be the first time,¡± Agozi replied teasingly. ¡°So what went wrong this time?¡± ¡°It¡¯s not a representative of its kind,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°I haven¡¯t inquired the details yet, but it¡¯s clear that he¡¯s not what we thought him to be.¡± ¡°How do you know it¡¯s a ¡®he¡¯?¡± Agozi asked, her curiosity genuine. Kaz simply glanced at the brutish alien across the hangar as if to emphasize his point. Its primordial nature was jarring compared to the other sentient beings. ¡°Oh¡­fair point,¡± Agozi said, her question now seeming a bit silly in hindsight. ¡°The matter of its gender is hardly our most pressing current concern,¡± Kaz said. ¡°If it isn¡¯t here on a diplomatic mission, we need to know what its agenda is.¡± A subtle accusation in the tone rubbed Agozi the wrong way. ¡°What agenda?¡± she asked, her voice laced with subtle offense at the implication. ¡°For all we know it just got lost. No reason to be so conspiratorial.¡± ¡°The ship is cloaked,¡± Kaz said. ¡°There¡¯s no plausible way it could¡¯ve just floated over here by accident without prior knowledge of our location.¡± ¡°Cloaks don¡¯t necessarily prevent electronic detection.¡± ¡°Even if so, my original point was that it couldn¡¯t have found us by chance,¡± Kaz said. ¡°Regardless of its motives, it come here deliberately.¡± They shared a brief glance at it before their eyes met again. ¡°Why don¡¯t we just go ask it?¡± Agozi said after a moment''s pause. Kaz signaled agreement with a Mevik hand gesture, and they approached the Terran alien. The Terran¡¯s eyes immediately focused on Agozi as they drew closer. Her unease grew under the Terran''s gaze. The significant size difference between them intensified the feeling, yet the unsettling nature of his stare stood out on its own. ¡°An acquaintance of yours?¡± The Terran asked Kaz, its eyes fixed on her. ¡°Lieutenant Agozi serves as my second in command and is also my lifetime confidant,¡± Kaz replied with a formal tone, pausing with her a few feet from it. Briefly, the Terran scanned Agozi, appearing to inspect her. Agozi felt uneasy during the momentary scrutiny. ¡°I¡¯m Hugo Andreas of Terra,¡± it introduced itself politely. ¡°Pleasure to meet you.¡± Agozi couldn''t quite shake the sense that something was amiss with their new visitor, even though they had only just met. Still, basic courtesy extended to all sentient beings, weird vibes or not, and it was part of her job anyway. ¡°Nice to meet¡ª¡± Mid-response, the true scale of their height and build difference dawned on her, forcing her to tilt her head for proper eye contact. Her whiskers twitched. ¡°¡­you¡­too.¡± The Terran seemed to sense her discomfort. ¡°My apologies,¡± it said, its tone polite but direct. ¡°I''m not causing any unease, surely?¡± ¡°Absolutely not,¡± she replied almost instinctively. Agozi might''ve stretched the truth a little bit. It was certainly a new experience to be so wildly outsized by another person, especially as a Mevik. Now she was kind of curious if this was a normal thing for Zelana, interacting with Kaz and herself. ¡°Explain your presence,¡± Kaz said, his curt tone revealing his lack of patience for pleasantries. ¡°Given our ship''s cloaked state, locating us implies a deliberate search.¡± ¡°Searching for you wasn¡¯t on my agenda,¡± the Terran replied. ¡°I was minding my own when your tractor beam ensnared my ship.¡± ¡°This only transpired following your approach,¡± Kaz said. ¡°It''s customary to assume incoming craft intend to board. If that''s a misinterpretation, I need you to explain yourself.¡± ¡°What brought you out here, anyway?¡± Agozi asked before the Terran could answer Kaz¡¯s question. The Terran''s lips moved as if searching for a reply. ¡°Merely fulfilling my duties when you pulled me in,¡± it replied eventually. ¡°Specify the nature of this duty.¡± Kaz asked. The Terran hesitated. ¡°Gamma harvesting,¡± he replied eventually. ¡°My ship¡¯s equipped to identify specific signatures, like heat and radiation. It seems to have erroneously identified your ship as something to collect.¡± Kaz eyed the Terran''s small shuttle with skepticism. ¡°Seems like a small size for a harvester.¡± The Terran hesitated again, though briefly this time. ¡°¡¯Small¡¯ is relative.¡± Kaz and Agozi exchanged a quick, uncertain glance. Painful groans echoed from the shuttle''s cargo compartment suddenly, drawing everyone''s immediate attention. This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience. The compartment door opened, revealing another Terran who stumbled out, hands clutching its head and groaning in pain. ¡°Damn¡­that hurt pretty bad!¡± It let go of its bruised forehead and looked around. ¡°Hey! This ain¡¯t the warehouse¡­da feck?¡± ***** Ross quickly realized he wasn''t at the warehouse anymore; the place was swarming with strange, furry, humanoid creatures. ¡°Uh, is this like a secret military base, or something?¡± None of the furry creatures responded to his question, nor did the lone human present. They simply stared in silence. ¡°Maybe a secret research facility? Hidden by the government, or some shit?¡± Still without a response, he focused on the only other human there. ¡°Eh, mind telling me da fek is going on here brah?! Da fek is this shite?¡± The other human gave him a look of intense disgust, as if he''d done something deeply offensive. No one spoke; everyone simply stared at him like he was a freak. Ross grew irritated by the complete lack of reaction. ¡°Yea¡­I¡¯m really not so sure if I like this whole silent treatment you guys are giving me right now!¡± His irritation intensified. ¡°Is it really that hard to just tell me where da fek I am? It¡¯s not like I¡¯m asking for a lot, you guys.¡± One of the black-furred, humanoid feline creatures approached him, appearing taller than the others yet shorter than the two humans. ¡°Ah ha! Finally! Someone who isn¡¯t completely socially retarded!¡± Ross exclaimed, gesticulating wildly with his hands. ¡°So, who would you be, my fine good¡ª¡± He examined the furry black humanoid from bottom to top as it halted in front of him. ¡°Whatever the hell you are.¡± The furry humanoid reached into its yellow utility belt, pulled out a gadget, and slowly reached toward him. ¡°We can communicate through this device,¡± the furry humanoid said. ¡°Place it inside your mouth.¡± Ross''s eyes widened in shock. ¡°Woah! You abominations can speak English!¡± Ross exclaimed loudly, almost shouting. The furry humanoid flinched slightly, much to Ross''s amusement. ¡°Hah! Startled you there, did I?¡± He examined the creatures scattered throughout the hangar, quickly realizing they posed no threat. In fact, he dwarfed them all. A note of mockery crept into his voice. ¡°You guys don¡¯t really strike me as being the most intimidating bunch to be honest,¡± he said, letting out a brief, childish laugh. ¡°Not that I¡¯m complaining,¡± he added, followed by more immature chuckles. ¡°The translator device,¡± the furry humanoid reiterated with a touch more assertiveness. ¡°For us to proceed, insertion is necessary. Please, proceed with it now.¡± Ross frowned, his face twisting in disgust. ¡°Sorry bro, but I don¡¯t have a habit of just letting strangers insert things into my body,¡± he said. ¡°I¡¯d have to be really high for that to happen, and I¡¯m totally sober right now.¡± Silence hung awkwardly again until Ross realized his mistake. ¡°Okay! Okay! No problemo!¡± he said, raising his right hand in a reassuring gesture, then snatched the device from the creature. He inserted it into his mouth; it worked quickly, embedding itself in his teeth and cheeks. Ross jumped slightly in surprise. ¡°Woah! The heck?¡± ¡°There¡¯s no need to worry,¡± the furry humanoid said. ¡°This is to be expected. Communication between us should now be clear.¡± ¡°Is that a fact?¡± Ross said passive-aggressively. ¡°So, mind telling me just what the hell this place is?¡± ¡°You are on board Galactic Union vessel GEG Minboa of the Galactic Union Exploration Guild. It is our mission to chart unexplor¡ª¡± ¡°Aliens, huh?¡± Ross interrupted. ¡°Well, that¡¯s a relief.¡± His tone shifted to amusement. ¡°I thought you guys might be like fucked up government gene-splicing experiments, or some insane crap like that.¡± He released a garbled, relieved laugh. ¡°Thank God this isn¡¯t the case and that I¡¯ve only been abducted by faggot aliens. I thought shit was about to get real for a moment there.¡± The dark furry humanoid blinked, and its whiskers quivered for a moment. ¡°Gene-splicing experiments? Faggot aliens?¡± it said, sounding confused. ¡°I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t grasp your point.¡± ¡°Well, of course you dumb motherfuckers can¡¯t,¡± Ross scoffed, gesturing dismissively. ¡°I mean, you¡¯re just a bunch of stupid immigrants, after all. You understand no nothin. Trust me, I would know¡­I had to work with a ton of them after I migrated to Terra Central.¡± He let out another juvenile mocking laugh. The other human rushed towards the black-furred humanoid. ¡°I apologize for my friend''s unawareness,¡± the other human said. ¡°He took a hit to the head during docking which has left him less than lucid, as is evident. I''d prefer a private moment with him in the shuttle, if that''s acceptable.¡± ¡°You have an injured crewmember?¡± the dark furry humanoid asked, its posture and voice now looking alarmed. ¡°If you had informed us sooner, we could have offered immediate assistance.¡± ¡°We''ve got medics on standby at the medical bay,¡± a second furred humanoid, this one shorter and brandishing yellow fur, explained sympathetically. ¡°We''ll have his injuries looked at there.¡± Confused and irritated, Ross frowned, clueless about what was happening. ¡°Hey! What¡¯s that guy even on about? I don¡¯t even kno¡ª¡± The other human shot him a harsh look, making him pause mid-sentence and then turned back to the furry humanoid. ¡°Not just yet.¡± ¡°Uh, I¡¯m kinda with catbro here,¡± Ross said, rubbing his sore head. ¡°My head is kinda kill¡ª¡± ¡°I said not just yet,¡± the other human borderline barked at him, before directing his attention back to the humanoid cat creature. ¡°A fleeting exchange, nothing more. Afterwards, he''s all yours.¡± The black-tarred furry humanoid hesitated, its snout moving about somewhat. ¡°Provided the injury is not urgent, the timeframe for treatment is not a pressing concern.¡± ¡°Precisely!¡± the other human said, turning quickly toward Andreas. He leaned close, whispering without meeting Andreas''s eyes. ¡°To the shuttle, immediately.¡± Despite Ross''s hesitation and uncertainty about the man''s motives, the malevolent tone made disobedience seem unwise. ¡°Uh, okay I guess.¡± Ross followed him inside the shuttle¡¯s cargo compartment, where they then closed the compartment door behind them. ***** Once they were out of sight, Andreas lunged at the unknown idiot, grabbing his chest and slamming him against a nearby wall and then pressed his face close enough for him to feel his breath. ¡°Just who the hell are you and what are you doing here?!¡± he barked, infuriated. The idiot glanced up until his gaze met Andreas''s. ¡°Uh¡­how you¡¯re feeling today?¡± he asked anxiously. ¡°Ugh, never mind,¡± he blurted after seeing the fury in Andreas''s eyes. ¡°I¡¯ll just assume you¡¯re not having a delightful day at all. But if it makes you feel any better, neither am¡ª¡± Fury drove Andreas to punch him in the stomach. The man crumpled to the floor, groaning in pain, and Andreas knelt beside him. ¡°Unknown and uninvited, yet here you are¡­¡± The human grimaced. ¡°Let''s set the record straight, shall we?¡± the human said with a grimace as he stood. ¡°I lead here. Your actions will align with my commands, without exception.¡± Still reeling from the blow, the fool stared up at Andreas in confusion. ¡°¡­what? Why? I don¡¯t understan¡ª¡± Andreas kicked him viciously in the stomach and the idiot groaned in pain again. ¡°Without exception.¡± ¡°Okay! Okay! No questions asked brah. Got it.¡± ¡°Your comprehension is appreciated.¡± The human smiled. ¡°By the way, I''m Andreas. Hugo Andreas.¡± ¡°Nice to meet you brah¡­¡± the idiot groaned, still in pain. Andreas''s smile returned, followed by another kick to the man''s stomach. ¡°What was that for?¡± the idiot whimpered. ¡°The absence of etiquette,¡± Andreas replied calmly. ¡°¡¯Brah¡¯ is not a term you''ll use with me, or at all. Understood?¡± ¡°Sure, sure. Just don¡¯t kick me again bra¡ª¡± Andreas glared at him, eyes narrowing. ¡°Andreas¡­sir.¡± Andreas quickly integrated the fool. The man claimed to be a warehouse worker named Ross, who had hit his head while clumsily moving cargo into the van. Andreas usually questioned such stories, but the man''s obvious lack of intelligence made the tale believable. Andreas instructed Ross to remain subservient and play along with his cover story. ¡°Listen intently now to what I''m about to tell you¡­¡± Andreas said, his quiet, sinister tone drawing a look of anxiety from his listener. ¡°In case questions emerge regarding who we are, state we''re industrial workers on a gamma harvesting ship.¡± His tone became even more aggressively firm. ¡°Do you follow?¡± Ross faltered, stunned by the hostility and implied threats. ¡°I guess. Sort of. Not really. Yea okay whatever bra¡­I mean Andreas.¡± Book 1: Act 2: Chapter 2: Part I The hex-shaped door of the examination chamber slid open with a whoosh. Xeno-psychiatrist Zelana and Xeno-biologist Okens entered, followed by the two alien specimens. ¡°What are we doing here?¡± the specimen Ross asked. ¡°You guys said you could fix my head, but I¡¯m not seeing any head-fixing machines.¡± The chamber provided was a cramped rectangular space, ill-suited for anything beyond the most basic medical procedures. Its equipment was equally rudimentary, yet it would suffice for this routine scan. At least the sterile white metal-plastic walls and floor met the bare minimum standard of cleanliness. ¡°Your wound is about to be attended to with utmost care,¡± Zelana said without looking up from her tablet. ¡°Please, remain calm, the situation will ameliorate shortly.¡± ¡°Uh, okay, I guess.¡± Zelana adjusted settings on her tablet before looking at the specimens. ¡°Please, take your place on top of those pads so that we may be able to commence the examination,¡± she said, gesturing towards a row of circular pads near the room''s edge. The specimen stepped onto a pad as instructed. Zelana approached the specimen Ross, glancing at him before resuming work on her tablet. Soft, rhythmic exhalations suddenly emerged from the specimen''s mouth. Zelana stopped working on her tablet and looked at the specimen. ¡°Excuse my inquiry, but might there be something amiss?¡± ¡°No, it¡¯s just that¡­¡± the specimen Ross briefly repeated some of the sounds. ¡°You¡¯re wearing a white coat just like a human doctor would. I just find it funny.¡± Zelana lowered her tablet slightly and her long, narrow ears twitched with interest. ¡°Intriguing,¡± she said. ¡°May I inquire as to the particular cause of your amusement?¡± ¡°I dunno,¡± the specimen Ross said. ¡°I just find it funny cus I always pictured you alien cockroaches dressed in villainous regalia with shoulder horns or something.¡± It paused briefly. ¡°I guess the sci-fi channel must¡¯ve lied to me,¡± he added, emitting more of the strange, amused sounds. Zelana''s nose twitched, a reflex betraying her confusion. She reminded herself of the specimen''s injury and mental instability, as well as the incomplete translation configuration. ¡°Noted,¡± she replied, her voice tinged with artificial politeness. ¡°Proceed with examination must,¡± Xeno-Biologist Okens said, positioning himself in front of the other specimen. The ceiling above the pads parted, and various examination devices slowly lowered toward the specimen. This prompted a look of concern from the specimen Ross. ¡°You have nothing to fear from the scanners,¡± Zelana said empathetically. ¡°The process is entirely painless and non-invasive.¡± ¡°Well, that¡¯s a relief!¡± the specimen Ross said, visibly relaxing in response to her words. ¡°For a moment there, I thought you space rodents were going to vivisect me or something.¡± Zelana''s posture visibly shifted with confusion and a hint of shock. She glanced up from her tablet at the specimen Ross. ¡°...vivisection?¡± She paused briefly, stunned. ¡°Would we have reason to perform such a procedure?¡± ¡°I dunno, it just seems like the sort of thing you alien bastards would do.¡± The specimen Ross''s tone took on a more nervous quality. ¡°But what do I know? I¡¯m just some industrial worker bro doing industrial worker shit in outer fucking space, especially around clouds of gamma and definitely nowhere else, for I am squarely an industrial gamma space man in space¡­I swear to ya!¡± ¡°Disregard my associate''s nonsense,¡± the specimen Andreas said quickly. ¡°His recent injury has compromised his judgment, unfortunately.¡± ¡°Noted,¡± Zelana said, after a moment''s hesitation. They resumed the examination. ¡°The following steps require the removal of your garments,¡± Zelana said. For some reason, the statement prompted an unexpected posture change from the specimen Ross. ¡°Uh¡­say what?¡± ¡°You''ll need to remove your clothing,¡± Zelana repeated. ¡°The scan will be compromised if your clothing remains in place.¡± The specimen Ross frowned. ¡°Listen you crazy bat lady¡­¡± Its tone had taken on a passive-aggressive edge. ¡°I dunno how things work on whatever fucked up planet you come from, but back where I live, we just don¡¯t go around parading our naked sausage like its pride day or some shit.¡± Zelana paid little mind to the specimen''s rudeness; its evident mental deterioration excused it from the consequences of its rude behavior. She had no understanding of what this ¡°pride day¡± was that it referenced. This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. ¡°If this request violates any customs, I extend my apologies,¡± she replied, her tone professional yet slightly distant. ¡°Our understanding of your culture is, admittedly, lacking. This will be addressed.¡± She paused. ¡°Please follow instructions for the time being. Be assured, this is for your own good.¡± ¡°Sure thing! I¡¯ll just mindlessly believe the talking alien rodent and her legion of space cats who¡¯ve just kidnapped me for no reaso¡ª¡± ¡°For your own sake, I recommend you follow instructions,¡± the specimen Andreas said in a tone so chilling that Zelana could almost feel its coldness from across the room. ¡°But what if she wants to anally prob¡ª¡± The specimen Andreas narrowed its eyes and gave the specimen Ross an icy look. ¡°Uh, never mind,¡± the specimen Ross said. ¡°I guess¡­I¡¯ll put on my birth suit, then.¡± Although hardly noticeable to the uncouth beings before her, Zelana''s composure was momentarily disturbed by the blatant hostility. The tablet in her typically steady hands betrayed a faint quiver, the device dipping slightly as her grip slackened. ¡°All is well, Doctor Zelana?¡± The unexpected question caught her off guard, causing a slight jerk of Zelana¡¯s body. Her attention snapped toward the voice''s origin. Xeno-Biologist Okens, already standing close and presumably sensing her nervousness, eyed her with a glimmer of concern. ¡°Need assistance?¡± A flicker of hesitation crossed Zelana''s face, but vanished as she regained her composure. ¡°That is unnecessary,¡± she replied, professionalism fully restored. ¡°Then carry on, we shall.¡± Once the specimens undressed, Okens used his tablet to activate the scanners. The scanners whirred around the specimens, emitting multicolored laser beams and adjusting their height to target specific body parts. The specimen Ross chuckled. ¡°It¡¯s kinda like Star Wars if everybody was naked!¡± ¡°No moving or speaking, during examination process,¡± Okens said. Several minutes later, the scanner devices switched off and retracted into the ceiling. ¡°The remainder of this scan necessitates a manual approach.¡± Zelana grabbed a small handheld scanner from a nearby utility table. ¡°If it is feasible, raise your arms to the side and maintain the position. Notify us should you grow tired.¡± As requested, the specimen extended their arms outward. They approached their respective specimens, continuing the examination. The size difference immediately posed a problem; while the legs and glutes were accessible, reaching the upper body and arms was difficult. Zelana soon asked them to reduce their height. They complied, and the examination resumed. She inspected the upper back, then the deltoids, and finally the arms. Dense muscles encased every part of its body, its strength seemingly matched by its size. The size of the digits is remarkable, she mused. As Zelana shifted to examine the specimen''s front, she discovered something unexpected: a cluster of ugly bruises around the abdominal and stomach region. While she knew the specimen had been injured during docking, these bruises seemed unrelated. They also looked freshly inflicted. ¡°Please excuse my observation, but may I ask how you acquired those bruises on your abdomen?¡± Zelana asked, her small and delicate fingers carefully probing the bruised areas around the abdomen. Her question was met with unexpected silence. ¡°Excuse me, but I require a response to my¡ª.¡± ¡°The docking incident was rough on him,¡± the specimen Andreas said before she could repeat herself. ¡°I suspect he bumped into something. Hardly a cause for concern.¡± Offended by Andreas''s dismissal, Zelana stopped examining the bruises and looked at it. ¡°Injuries such as this are not to be taken lightly,¡± she replied professionally, with a note of seriousness. She continued her examination of the bruised area. ¡°It''s surprising no fractures are apparent given the severity of the bruising.¡± The specimen Andreas smirked in a disrespectful reaction to her statement. ¡°Well, humans have a certain¡­persistence,¡± he said, his voice dripping with smugness. ¡°You could say that we¡¯re built to last.¡± Halting her examination, Zelana lowered her device and met Andreas''s gaze with a quizzical expression. Though the wording itself wasn''t overtly offensive, she found the tone to be somewhat improper. She realized her breach of etiquette, looked away quickly, and resumed her work. ***** Once the physical examination was over, Zelana led the specimen into a neighboring room. Like the first, this room was sterile and white, but held kiosks, adjusted for the specimen''s height, in the center. A smaller adjacent space with a one-way mirror allowed those inside to observe. ¡°So what¡¯s this place?¡± the specimen Ross asked. ¡°Your physical assessment is complete. We now focus on cognitive evaluation.¡± Zelana gestured at the kiosks. ¡°The equipment ahead uses touch interfaces for operation. Approach, and instructions will be displayed in your native language.¡± ¡°What are we supposed to use them for?¡± the specimen Ross asked. ¡°Just do what she says,¡± the specimen Andreas said passively-aggressively. The specimens took their places before their respective kiosks. ¡°I will withdraw temporarily,¡± Zelana said. ¡°Though absent, we remain able to hear you. Indicate if assistance is needed, and it will be provided.¡± ¡°Nah, I¡¯m good,¡± the specimen Ross said. ¡°Likewise,¡± the specimen Andreas seconded. As Zelana departed through the sliding door, the lights dimmed and the kiosks'' touch interfaces activated, brightening the screens and the areas around them. ¡°Now follow the instructions precisely and try not to ruin this with your usual incompetence,¡± the specimen Andreas said. ¡°Why would I do that?¡± ¡°Because you¡¯re an¡ª" The specimen Andreas hesitated, casting a quick glance at the one-sided mirror before turning back to the kiosk. ¡°Forget it.¡± From the observation room, Zelana and fellow psychiatric staff observed the specimens through the one-sided mirror. She took notes on her digital tablet; their subpar interpersonal communication prompted her to glance down and scribble several quick notes: -Lack social acumen -Demonstrate veiled hostility -Deficiency in forethought The kiosks administered a generic cognitive intelligence test, similar to those used in most learning institutions for young adults. It assessed pattern recognition and memory while avoiding culture-specific biases. While not providing deep insight, it offered researchers a basic picture of the test-taker''s mind. The two specimens worked on the test for the next hour with minimal conversation. Zelana and her research assistants focused on observation and note-taking. The specimen Ross unexpectedly thrusted its hands high into the air. ¡°I¡¯m done!¡± it proclaimed triumphantly. Zelana winced at the sudden outburst, and many others in the examination room did too. Even the other specimen seemed slightly startled. Still slightly off-balance, Zelana spoke into a nearby microphone device. ¡°Well done on completing the task,¡± she said, her voice steady but betraying a hint of unease. ¡°Should you prefer not to stand, note that seating accommodations are available. You may utilize them while awaiting the other''s completion.¡± "Nah, I''m good," the specimen Ross replied. "I prefer to stand. Sitting just makes me tired, like I''m at work, or something." Book 1: Act 2: Chapter 2: Part II That evening, Kaz met with his usual group of important figures in the briefing room to discuss the situation. The specimens, and all but a select few, remained unaware of the summoning. In an atypical move for the otherwise by-the-books Captain, Kaz violated protocol and chose not to record the meeting. Agozi and Kaz stood side-by-side in front of the circular halo-projector, though the device itself remained turned off. Facing them from the opposite side was Honorary-Lieutenant Snikers. On the left, Xeno-psychiatrist Zelana and Xeno-biologist Okens employed small step stools to achieve equal eye contact. ¡°So where do we go from here?¡± Agozi asked, her hands gesturing for an answer. ¡°This scenario is challenging,¡± Kaz said, his posture and tone stern. ¡°Returning the specimens risks prematurely exposing ourselves yet detaining them violates the Union''s charter on the rights of sentients.¡± ¡°Presuming they even have a desire to depart.¡± A smug, opportunistic tone laced Snikers''s voice. ¡°You view this as a problem, but I see a golden chance. Even though these beings may not be the official envoys we presumed, they represent a first contact. First impressions are crucial, Captain, and I emphatically advise that we seize this moment.¡± ¡°Be specific,¡± Kaz said, his whiskers jerking slightly with passive-aggressive suspicion. Snikers''s smirk widened, and his lips and nose twitched pretentiously as his smug tone intensified. ¡°Recall, if you will, our entry into this system, when your scanners revealed their world as barely hospitable to any form of civilized existence, quite mediocre indeed.¡± Snikers paused. ¡°¡­and your point is?¡± Kaz asked, impatient with Snikers''s meandering speech. Agozi mirrored his impatience, her skeptical gaze fixed on Snikers. ¡°Therefore, it serves us to dazzle them with a substantial showcase of our prosperity,¡± Snikers replied. ¡°Aside from encouraging their stay until we decide to release them, they¡¯re certain to narrate their favorable experiences upon return, painting the Union in a positive light.¡± His tone grew even more self-satisfied. ¡°This strategy rectifies our dilemmas, does it not, Captain?¡± Kaz mulled over Snikers''s words, scratching his chin thoughtfully. Though Snikers''s plan reeked of self-interest, its logical framework couldn''t be denied, though Agozi seemed decidedly unimpressed. ¡°This is a scouting vessel, not some grand luxury ship,¡± she said condescendingly. ¡°Besides not knowing what they think luxury is, we aren¡¯t stocked for it either.¡± ¡°Ah, but you are quite wrong, my dear Lieutenant.¡± ¡°Look at that, using my real title. Did I move up a notch on your respect scale?¡± Agozi asked, her tone and expression laced with sarcasm. The sarcastic comment made Snikers pause for a moment, but he soon continued. ¡°You must understand, child...¡± Though non-Meviks like Snikers might miss her anger cues, Agozi''s rage was obvious to Kaz. Doubtlessly, the choice to address her as ''child'' rather than ''Lieutenant'' was a calculated act aimed at chastising her for previous conduct, though she wisely held her tongue this time. This restraint was perhaps for the best, as Kaz lacked any patience for further disputes. ¡°We, the Pretenti, insist on a certain standard of accommodation for conducting our business, regardless of the circumstances,¡± Snikers said. ¡°In addition to retrofitting your ship, we enhanced your recreational areas and stockpiles with far superior, more opulent alternatives.¡± Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation. Agozi''s whiskers twitched wildly as she stared at him, dumbfounded and disbelieving. ¡°You upgraded the ship just for yourself?!¡± Her tone conveyed equal parts shock and disgust. ¡°No need to blow this out of proportion,¡± Snikers replied dismissively. ¡°Just the new prototype warper tags this as a trillion-credit vessel. It was only sensible to invest a bit more for decent living conditions.¡± ¡°And what does ''decent'' look like to you?¡± Agozi asked, her voice dripping with accusation. ¡°I recommend you save us all some time and simply look over the new additions on your own,¡± Snikers replied. ¡°Just consult the ship¡¯s logs for the details, it¡¯s not that challenging.¡± Agozi''s whiskers and snout twitched, her frown deepening. Kaz stepped in before she could launch into an argument. ¡°There''s no need for that, I have reviewed the upgrades.¡± A subtle jerking of his whiskers hinted at his lukewarm feelings about them. ¡°A few of these changes seem rather excessive.¡± Kaz and Agozi''s duties left little time for the recreational sector, yet he''d nonetheless reviewed the upgrades mentioned by Snikers. Extremely high-end restaurants, various massage parlors, holo theaters, and even an entire sports stadium comprised the new recreational facilities. The stadium was presumably for the crew''s enjoyment, since the Pretenti themselves held sporting pursuits in low regard. Whether Snikers'' motives were those of genuine concern for the crew''s welfare or a simple display of his wealth remained unclear to him, but the stadium was nonetheless appreciated by the personnel. Since Snikers funded the expensive additions himself, Kaz saw little point in raising objections. Kaz looked at Zelana, prompting a slight flinch from her. ¡°Honorary-Lieutenant Snikers believes leisure will motivate them to stay,¡± Kaz said. ¡°Does this approach to securing their cooperation hold merit?¡± ¡°That''s uncertain,¡± Zelana replied. ¡°As indicated by Lieutenant Agozi, our grasp of their cultural framework is insufficient to predict their reaction accurately. Their leisure practices may differ from ours, or they might simply choose not to linger amongst us.¡± ¡°What if they just outright reject us?¡± Agozi asked. Kaz contemplated the possibilities, scratching his chin again. ¡°Ideally, cooperation is attained,¡± he replied eventually. ¡°However, we''ll take necessary measures, even restrictive ones, to ensure it.¡± Zelana''s shock was evident; her snout jerked, and her ears rose and fell slightly. ¡°Captain, forgive my interjection, but I find the ethics of limiting their freedom in such a manner deeply problematic.¡± ¡°Oh, and it''s illegal, by the way,¡± Agozi added. ¡°Strict adherence to the Union''s charter may hinder the mission,¡± Kaz said. ¡°Standard operating procedures were built for routine situations. Here, we''re in uncharted territory.¡± His lip curled subtly, whiskers jerking as he bared some of his sharp teeth. ¡°Both figuratively and literally.¡± ¡°None of that matters,¡± Agozi said. ¡°I''m with Zelana on this one; it doesn¡¯t fly legally or ethically, circumstances aside.¡± They debated the matter for several minutes. ¡°This whole debate is irrelevant, given they''ll undoubtedly opt to stay,¡± Snikers said eventually, sounding self-assured. ¡°They''re from worker backgrounds, so it¡¯s safe to say their prospects back home don¡¯t hold a candle to what we''ve got here.¡± The room fell silent for a moment, the different parties exchanging glances, silently attempting to read each other''s thoughts. ¡°Assuming this plan is approved, how would we best approach presenting them with this proposition?¡± Kaz asked Zelana. ¡°The specimen Ross exhibits compromised mental clarity, potentially stemming from his head injury,¡± Zelana replied. ¡°More trials for him are warranted, and perhaps a complete psychological evaluation in the simulator. You might consider observing how the other responds in the recreational sector.¡± ¡°How about showing them around the ship?¡± Agozi said. ¡°Parallel execution of both is feasible.¡± Kaz''s gaze shifted back to Zelana. ¡°Considering the computational cost and impact on ship functions, how long would a full simulator test take?¡± ¡°It¡¯s difficult to say definitively considering the specimen¡¯s compromised state.¡± ¡°Provide an informed estimate.¡± ¡°Multiple hours,¡± Zelana replied after a moment''s thought. Kaz took a moment to consider. ¡°Agozi and I will accompany the specimen Andreas on a ship tour, including a visit to the recreational sector,¡± he said eventually. ¡°You can delegate the simulator test to the specimen Ross while we¡¯re occupied.¡± ¡°That settles it, then!¡± Snikers said smugly, like he''d won a great debate. ¡°Tomorrow, our esteemed Captain will escort the functioning specimen on its most opulent journey to date, while Doctor Zelana meticulously tends to the other.¡± A self-satisfied smirk settled on his snout. ¡°An ideal scheme indeed.¡± Book 1: Act 2: Chapter 2: Part III/Final As Xeno-psychiatrist Zelana turned to the next document page, the holographic interface let out a soft, crystalline chirp. She could¡¯ve delegated the review of a basic CT test to a subordinate, but the critical nature of this one demanded her direct involvement. Her working hours extended beyond comfort, significantly impairing her sense of time. The ship''s artificial day-night cycles were intended to alleviate the issue, but for the Langa, a subterranean species with unique sunlight needs, they proved largely ineffective. Zelana reviewed the findings'' summary one more time, still struggling to believe them despite numerous reviews. She scanned the entire page, then reached for the cup on her right for a quick sip, finding solace in the tea''s enduring taste amidst less than stellar working conditions. Extended shifts had become the norm, driven by another uptick in mental illness among the crew. Notably, she continued to function effectively, a feat that most of her fellow Langa probably wouldn''t have managed. The sliding door to her office swooshed open, and Kaz stepped through, pausing several feet from her desk. ¡°You needed me?¡± ¡°Indeed, I do,¡± Zelana replied. ¡°The review of today''s test results on the specimens is now complete.¡± Kaz''s lip curled slightly, and his whiskers twitched, gestures Zelana recognized as signals of bafflement or surprise. ¡°You called me here just for this?¡± he asked, his voice carrying surprise and a hint of irritation. ¡°With due respect, this hardly seems urgent enough to warrant my attention at such a late hour. Could we not have scheduled this for tomorrow?¡± ¡°Forgive the ill-timing,¡± Zelana replied apologetically. ¡°However, considering the circumstances and your forthcoming engagement with the specimen, the urgency is quite justified.¡± Kaz''s whiskers twitched, and soon after, he strode forward to stand directly in front of her desk, looming over her. ¡°Elaborate.¡± Zelana engaged with the desk¡¯s holographic interface, tweaking the projection angles until both could see clearly. She subsequently opened a file showing a bar graph. The graph, titled ¡®Median Cognitive Intelligence by Race ¨C Big Four¡¯, displayed four distinct bars. Median Cognitive Intelligence by Race ¨C Big Four Bar 1: Race: Langa, Score: 162 Bar 2: Race: Pretenti, Score: 134 Bar 3: Race: Prol, Score: 116 Bar 4: Race: Mevik, Score: 101 ¡°This chart delineates the median cognitive intelligences of each principal Union race,¡± Zelana said, gesturing at the graph to highlight its importance. She noticed a subtle awkwardness on Kaz''s snout as he scrutinized the graph. Given his species'' lower ranking among the major races, the brutish feline likely felt some embarrassment, though he displayed little outward sign of it. Without her professional training, she probably would¡¯ve missed it. A cognitive score of 101, though the galactic average, did not compare to the higher intellects of the Langa and Pretenti. This disparity cast the Mevik in a bad light and soured relations, especially with the Pretenti and Langa, who scorned the Mevik for their perceived intellectual shortcomings. If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. ¡°Explain the relevance,¡± Kaz said, following his examination of the graph. Zelana hesitated, then her voice deepened to a more serious tone. ¡°Are you acquainted with what they call the ''theory of cognitive parity''?¡± ¡°I''m aware,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°It posits that as a civilization progresses, individual intelligence within a species equalizes over time.¡± Zelana interacted with the holographic controls again, swapping the first bar graph for a similar second one that included both specimens. Bar 1: Race: Langa, Score: 162 Bar 2: Specimen: Andreas, Score: 141 Bar 3: Race: Pretenti, Score: 134 Bar 4: Race: Prol, Score: 116 Bar 5: Race: Mevik, Score: 101 Bar 6: Specimen: Ross, Score: 76 ¡°I gather you''re emphasizing the varied intellectual capacities of the specimens,¡± Kaz said after examining the new graph. ¡°The significance of this finding is noted, but I fail to see why we couldn''t defer its review to a more suitable time.¡± Frustration welled up in Zelana as she sighed internally at her captain¡¯s lack of understanding. ¡°It extends far beyond merely that,¡± she said, now revealing slight impatience in her tone. ¡°Deviations from the average among outliers aren''t rare but observe that even with your own score being fourteen points higher than your racial median, it pales in comparison to the staggering sixty-five-point difference between those two specimens.¡± Her snout twitched discreetly as she paused. ¡°I have never encountered anything like this.¡± ¡°Even so, it would only represent one more instance where this race diverges from expected norms.¡± ¡°The implications extend far beyond mere physical characteristics,¡± Zelana said. ¡°It points to a social structure that''s deeply unfamiliar, unlike anything previously encountered.¡± The vast difference in cognitive performance between the two specimens, 141 versus 76, could''ve led casual observers to mistake them for different species. Given its high intelligence, the first specimen could¡¯ve assumed elite Union roles if it wanted. In contrast, the second specimen, with its vastly inferior capacity, would¡¯ve been suitable only for menial tasks that even many Mevik would have considered beneath them. ¡°Your point is clear,¡± Kaz said. ¡°I merely struggle to see why this discovery should necessitate my immediate attention outside of regular hours.¡± ¡°The implications are the reason,¡± Zelana said, her tone now strikingly firm for a Langa, followed by a pause. ¡°Can you remember when I first expressed my concerns about this race?¡± ¡°Are you referring to the incident involving yourself and Xeno-Biologist Okens in the briefing room?¡± ¡°Indeed,¡± Zelana replied. ¡°Do you recall the specific concerns I pointed out then?¡± ¡°I do recall your comments on what you deemed the ¡®improbability¡¯ of a civilized primate race.¡± ¡°And now, the hard data we''ve collected supports those concerns,¡± Zelana said. ¡°Within civilized societies, racial intelligence achieves equilibrium through cooperation and compromise, fostering harmony and gradually leading to a genetic convergence that mitigates existing disparities.¡± She paused, her voice reflecting growing concern. ¡°Yet, this observation does not hold for this species¡­¡± For a moment, they said nothing, just exchanging concerned glances. ¡°You think they''ve reached the level of an advanced civilization state without the necessary social evolution?¡± Kaz asked eventually. ¡°Yes! That is precisely what I''m concerned about!¡± Zelana replied anxiously. ¡°If genetics are unequal, then so is everything else. The implications are profoundly alarming!¡± Kaz''s whiskers fluttered, suggesting he was pondering her words. ¡°The Union¡¯s own cognitive gaps among its members haven¡¯t hindered us.¡± ¡°That''s a completely different matter,¡± Zelana said. ¡°While the Union is composed of distinct civilizations collectively, each race within it has managed to establish its own internal harmony.¡± Their gazes stayed locked in a silent moment until Kaz spoke again. ¡°Your conclusions are too broad for such limited evidence.¡± His voice took on an annoyed and accusatory tone. ¡°Not a novel occurrence.¡± He resumed following a somewhat painful pause. ¡°Consider Ross¡¯s injury; his colleague has stated it compromises his standard functioning. Why should we trust the test results?¡± ¡°I understand it''s injured, yet that alone fails to clarify the significant differences we see in the results.¡± Another silent moment passed. ¡°Setting aside my reservations, what do you propose I should do with this information?¡± Kaz asked eventually. ¡°You have been scheduled to engage with the specimen Andreas tomorrow,¡± Zelana replied. ¡°I request that you integrate a recorder to document your interactions with him, which I will examine once you''re back. I will manage the simulator test for the other in the interim.¡± The request drew a slight frown across Kaz¡¯s snout. ¡°Just this evening, you opposed the violation of the specimens'' rights; now, you expect me to spy on them at your request?¡± ¡°I hesitate to label it as spying,¡± Zelana said with a hint of apology in her tone. ¡°Consider it research. It''s vital that we understand this species thoroughly before any official interactions occur.¡± Kaz replied after a silence that had stretched longer than Zelana found comfortable. ¡°Very well.¡± Book 1: Act 2: Chapter 3: Part I Lying flat on the white, plasticy bunkbed with his hands under his head, Andreas watched Ross snore in the bunk above. Though the position was uncomfortable and the accommodation unsuitable, it still surpassed sleeping on the floor. However, sleep was not Andreas''s most pressing concern at the moment. He lacked a plan, the inevitable merely postponed. Andreas¡¯s face contorted into an irritated scoff as he recalled Ross''s sudden exit from the shuttle. How that fool ever got a job at the warehouse, let alone any job, puzzled him. He¡¯d surely bribed the undoubtedly corrupt recruitment officer to ignore his unfitness for the job. Would''ve been a smoother day without these fur-draped fools interrupting, he thought irately, aware that a simple bullet could¡¯ve solved Ross¡¯s accidental involvement if his shuttle had reached the lads as intended. They probably thought he was dead now. Andreas inhaled deeply, then exhaled slowly, moving his hands from his head to rest on his stomach. Despite the gravity of the circumstances, he noted a few positive elements: Firstly, the aliens'' conduct implied a lack of malicious intent, though feigned kindness remained a possibility. They had, thus far, avoided imprisoning him or worse, a fact that provided a degree of grim reassurance amidst the uncertainty of their situation. Secondly, visible armament was thus far absent, and the alien known as Kaz had suggested that the ship''s purpose was exploration, further implying the absence of armed personnel. Thirdly and building on the previous observation, the majority of the aliens barely came up to his chest, and their lack of visible weaponry only bolstered his conviction that the situation held little potential for getting ugly. At least not for me, he mused, a sadistic sense of satisfaction dawning as a small gloat appeared. A tour of the ship, led by Kaz, the black-furred feline alien, was scheduled for the following morning. Fortunately, Ross would not be included. Without further information, forming a cohesive plan remained impossible, a realization that frustrated him. Thankfully, his approaching time with Kaz promised to yield that info. As for Ross, disposing of that pathetic excuse for a being would need to be done quickly to avoid further complications in his plans. Turning onto his side, Ross emitted a loud, obnoxious snore, his mouth drooling saliva droplets that landed on the floor next to Andreas. Andreas recoiled at the sight. Preferably sooner rather than later. ***** ¡°Any area of the ship you¡¯re itching to check out first?¡± the alien Agozi, Kaz''s shorter companion and supposed lieutenant, asked Andreas as they walked the ship''s corridors. Starship operations were partially understood by Andreas, though this knowledge didn''t stir within him any enthusiasm for the subject. ¡°I can¡¯t say anything particular comes to mind.¡± He looked directly at her. ¡°Lead the way,¡± he said, offering a friendly smile. His inviting demeanor did not achieve the intended effect; although he couldn''t interpret Agozi''s expressions as easily as a human''s, the movement of her whiskers and her eyes'' look clearly indicated distress. ¡°Did I say something wrong?¡± Andreas asked, wondering if he¡¯d screwed up by unwittingly violating some alien custom. This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. ¡°Your expressions,¡± Kaz said formally, speaking for Agozi before she could, all while avoiding eye contact. ¡°Without meaning disrespect, they appear somewhat foreign to us.¡± ¡°Is that so?¡± Andreas said, briefly fixing his gaze on Kaz before shifting it to the corridor ahead. ¡°What¡¯s the peculiar part for you?¡± he asked, as they all made a left turn at the intersection. ¡°¡¯Peculiar¡¯ may be a misnomer,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°It¡¯s more the exaggerated quality of your gestures that puzzles us.¡± He paused. ¡°You might¡¯ve missed it, but you were unsettling a few of us back at the hangar.¡± Andreas instinctively gave a brief stare in response to the stunning statement but continued walking without slowing his pace. I was the one unsettling you? he thought to himself, baffled by why they¡¯d be the ones to express such a sentiment considering the context of the present circumstances. Not wanting to compromise his veneer of friendlessness, he opted to not bring this point up to them. Just the same, Kaz¡¯s words left him feeling seriously perplexed. ¡°That behavior right there,¡± Kaz said, evidently aware of Andreas''s brief stare although he continued to focus on the corridor path. ¡°Such conduct is unknown among the Mevik or any sentient beings we are aware of.¡± ¡°I mean, don¡¯t get us wrong; we''re not here to criticize or belittle your ways,¡± Agozi said, having now dropped in on the conversation. ¡°It''s just, your demeanor, it''s¡ª¡± ¡°Alien,¡± Andreas interjected. ¡°Trust me, the feeling is mutual.¡± Over the next few hours, Kaz and Agozi showed Andreas around the major areas of the ship¡ª the bridge, the hangar, the engineering facilities, and more. While Andreas acknowledged its useful nature, the information imparted failed to elicit any degree of excitement on his part. Two distinct alien species, he observed, populated the ship: Kaz''s own kind, and some rather peculiar, mole-like creatures. A lack of visible weaponry was noted by him, yet he refrained from direct inquiry, hesitant to risk provoking a negative reaction. He also adopted a passive approach in dealing with Kaz and his lieutenant ¨C he listened closely, asked questions sparingly, and avoided smiles or similar gestures, recognizing they would be met with disapproval. Just after they stepped out of the engineering facility through the checkpoint''s sliding door, a bizarre quadruped resembling a giant brown ant with large, red, insectoid-esque eyes and short forelimbs, strode past them. Struck by the stunning sight, Andreas came to an abrupt halt. ¡°What in the cosmos was that thing we just saw?!¡± he asked, his voice betraying unease. Agozi¡¯s whiskers fluttered with moderate intensity. ¡°You mean to tell me you''ve never seen a Cisian up close before?¡± ¡°No¡­this is definitely a first for me,¡± Andreas replied, his gaze following the peculiar insectoid as it disappeared around the corner. Agozi''s whiskers and snout twitched slightly more; Andreas, unable to comprehend, speculated that she was probably mocking him in her species'' unique way of laughter. ¡°No cause for alarm,¡± Kaz said. ¡°They might look strange, but Cisians are as civilized as they come.¡± ¡°The most orderly people you''ll ever find,¡± Agozi echoed. Andreas regained his composure. ¡°Got it.¡± He paused. ¡°What''s on our tour next?¡± ¡°That''s most of it covered,¡± Agozi said. ¡°Only the recreational area remains, which I think you''ll find rather fascinating.¡± Right before resuming their walk, Andreas spotted something that made his heart nearly skip a beat, his eyes widening and his mouth slightly agape. Five Mevik creatures, clad in tactical gear and carrying devices clearly recognizable as weapons, had just arrived through a nearby sliding door. Now gathered in the intersection''s center, their leader spoke to the group, his words muffled by the distance. Just as I suspected! Andreas thought. Civil appearances, yet everyone''s packing! Upon noticing Andreas¡¯s alarmed reaction, Agozi took a moment to grasp its origin. Realizing it, she was thrust into what could only be described as damage control mode. ¡°I''ll be right back, need to sort something out!¡± she told Andreas urgently, then quickly approached the armed Mevik company. Watching silently, Andreas saw Agozi briefly argue with the squad''s leader; although he couldn''t hear the words, the squad soon left through the same door they had entered. Agozi rejoined them. ¡°Apologies for that sight,¡± she said, her tone bordering on remorseful. ¡°They really shouldn''t have been here.¡± ¡°Can you clarify who ''they'' are?¡± Andreas asked. ¡°You needn''t trouble yourself with that,¡± Agozi said. ¡°It''s unimportant.¡± Andreas had played the part of the innocent until now, asking only minimal and seemingly benign questions. With his worst fears now confirmed, he could no longer hold back. ¡°They were equipped with guns,¡± he said, his tone straightforward but not rude. ¡°I can¡¯t just pretend I didn''t notice that.¡± Agozi, and to a lesser extent Kaz, now appeared visibly uncomfortable and awkward. They exchanged a brief, concerned glance before turning their attention back to Andreas. Book 1: Act 2: Chapter 3: Part II Kaz slowed his speech slightly, his manner turning serious. ¡°It appears you''ve jumped ahead with your assumptions,¡± he said. ¡°Rest assured, there''s absolutely no cause for alarm.¡± ¡°As I mentioned before¡­¡± Agozi''s voice carried subtle anger beneath a layer of empathy. ¡°They came back out of schedule. They were off-shift and just dropped off their equipment early, despite the rules we have against that.¡± ¡°That squad leader will be dealt with accordingly, you have my word,¡± Kaz said sternly. ¡°Now, hold on a minute¡­¡± Andreas said, his confusion with the situation lingering. ¡°You mentioned peaceful exploration, yet you''re equipped for combat¡­¡± Clear accusation and suspicion now permeated Andreas¡¯s tone. ¡°Is there something you''re not telling me?¡± The ship''s armed presence was hardly a shock to Andreas; venturing into the depths of the unknown without protection would be foolish. The possibility of hidden motives, however, was a cause for concern. A lifetime in the underworld had taught him to be wary of those who concealed their true nature beneath a facade, and his instincts were rarely wrong in such matters. ¡°Exploration inherently involves braving the unknown, which is often intimidating and equipped with primitive instincts,¡± Kaz replied, his tone restored to its usual formal self. ¡°We uphold decorum. The extraterrestrial wildlife? Not quite.¡± ¡°He put it rather bluntly, but he''s right¡± Agozi said. ¡°They''re our safeguard on the surface missions. Those worlds can be full of nasty surprises.¡± She paused. ¡°It makes sense to feel jittery seeing them appear so abruptly, which is exactly why we limit their open carry to designated times and places.¡± Andreas breathed easier after hearing this, and his posture and tone relaxed. ¡°Ah! We''re talking game hunting then, are we?¡± Agozi¡¯s whiskers and nose jerked momentarily. ¡°Not quite following what ''hunting game'' implies here.¡± ¡°That makes two of us,¡± Kaz echoed. ¡°What exactly are you referring to?¡± ¡°Let''s not dwell on that.¡± Andreas paused, his lips parting slightly before closing again, his expression contemplative. ¡°May I have a look?¡± ¡°What exactly do you want to look at?¡± Agozi asked. ¡°I''m referring to the guns.¡± This prompted surprise from both Kaz and Agozi, whose whiskers flared, and postures shifted as if startled by the question. ¡°For what?¡± Kaz asked curtly, his tone suggesting uncertainty about the question. Agozi remained silent, simply staring at him with what appeared to be concern. The way they¡¯d responded made Andreas pause, and his tone softened with contrition. ¡°Did I overstep, what I just asked?¡± he asked, attempting to gauge their reaction. ¡°Well, it varies by who¡¯s judging,¡± Kaz replied after a pause. ¡°Most sentients aren''t exactly thrilled to see weapons around, that''s why we usually keep them hidden.¡± ¡°And again, we''re truly sorry about that,¡± Agozi said. ¡°We didn''t intend to confront you with something so disturbing.¡± Andreas, having momentarily forgotten their aversion to human facial expressions, gave them a big smile. ¡°I value your concern, truly, but honestly, it doesn''t bother me in the slightest.¡± This, for some reason, seemed to startle them even more than last time, the two exchanging a concerned glance, and their whiskers equally hectic. ¡°Your initial reaction seemed to tell a different story,¡± Kaz said. A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation. ¡°It''s less the guns and more who¡¯s holding them that catches my eye.¡± Andreas¡¯s face slowly formed a subtly perverse grin. ¡°In fact, I¡¯m keen to see what they¡¯re all about.¡± ¡°Why¡¯s that?¡± Kaz asked again, equally as curtly. Andreas smiled once more, but this time, it wasn''t due to ignorance; he just didn''t care anymore that it made them uneasy. ¡°Call it a curious man''s whim if you will,¡± he replied. ¡°You offered a tour, and I¡¯m taking you up on that.¡± A long pause ensued as Kaz and Agozi remained silent, occasionally exchanging glances, seemingly waiting for the other to speak. Ultimately, Kaz chose to break the silence. ¡°The armory is just a short walk from here,¡± he said. ¡°However, your interest in it is perplexing. Does the idea of being amidst such barbaric instruments not bother you?¡± ¡°Never mind him!¡± Agozi said, shooting Kaz an upset look. ¡°I absolutely refuse to set foot in that shop of horrors, regardless of the specimen¡¯s preferences.¡± ¡°I beg your pardon, but I prefer to be called Andreas,¡± he interjected politely. ¡°Name yourself what you will, but we''re not headed to the armory,¡± Agozi replied, her tone now sounding decidedly less friendly. ¡°Let¡¯s ease off the hostility,¡± Kaz said, glancing quickly at Agozi, probably to assert his authority, then looked back at Andreas. ¡°The choice is yours, but I must admit I hold reservations similar to my Lieutenant¡¯s. Typically, only those trained for it can handle the atmosphere in there without distress.¡± Andreas chuckled lightly in amusement. ¡°No need to fret over me, I¡¯m perfectly capable of handling myself in there.¡± ***** The armory''s quad-directional sliding door opened slowly, and the three entered inside. The facility seemed tiny compared to the others they¡¯d shown him, being merely a rectangular room with gun racks and equipment along the walls. It was dustier and less maintained, suggesting few visits. The lighting wasn¡¯t ideal either, with just a few small wall lights for illumination. Other than that, it didn¡¯t look so different from most human armories. Andreas slipped his hands into his pockets and strolled casually through the room, inspecting the racks and the guns within. Agozi and Kaz followed close behind. After completing a circuit, which didn¡¯t take long given the room''s small size, he stepped up to a rack for a closer look. This rack held five rifle-like weapons with barrels pointing upward, each securely in its own slot, with the buttstock neatly placed at the base. However, the metallic restraints blocked him from a clear view of the weapons. Andreas, standing casually before the rack with both hands still in his pockets, glanced at Kaz. ¡°Mind if I take a closer look at one of these?¡± He¡¯d startled the alien felines again, especially Agozi, who seemed uneasy not only because of his question but also from simply being inside the armory. Noticing how uncomfortable they looked, Andreas added quickly, ¡°I¡¯m just curious to see the craftsmanship up close.¡± He smirked slightly. ¡°You could say I''m technically inclined.¡± Hesitantly, Kaz approached the rack, showing visible reluctance. Agozi looked like she wanted to object but stayed quiet, her uneasy gaze betraying her feelings about the whole affair. ¡°System, initiate unlock sequence. Clearance 345 under Captain Kaz.¡± A small, circular indicator light on the rack''s lower-right corner switched from red to green. A metallic click followed, unlocking the restraints. Kaz approached the rack, grabbed a gun, turned to face Andreas, and handed it to him. ¡°There¡¯s no ammo, so it''s completely safe to handle,¡± he said. ¡°Nevertheless, handle it with due reverence.¡± With both hands on the weapon, Andreas peered down and silently examined each part with genuine interest as Agozi and Kaz, unsure of his intentions, observed. The gun was unmistakably a rifle, its stock and barrel length clear indicators. The grip and trigger resembled those of human guns but were smaller compared to his larger human hand. The materials seemed standard, likely polymer or another lightweight alloy, though the gun''s surprisingly low weight for its size suggested otherwise. Resembling any generic rifle he''d seen, the alien firearm''s basic appearance was a mild disappointment. But the underwhelming first impression shifted to astonishment when he found and pressed the release lever, pivoting the barrel down toward the hinge and revealing the chamber. His eyes widened in bafflement as he glanced at Kaz, speaking in a dumbfounded tone. ¡°You haven¡¯t moved past breech-loading firearms?!¡± ¡°Your astonishment tells me this isn''t what you expected from our weaponry,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°Just seems a bit¡­archaic, given the tech I''ve seen here.¡± Though not an engineer, Andreas had been on enough spaceships to know that the Galactic Union, whatever it was, possessed technology that was leagues ahead of anything the Terran Federation had. A stark contrast to the rest of the ship, the armory felt more like a museum of obsolescence with its collection of comically outdated weaponry. ¡°Slugthrowers are uncomplicated technology,¡± Agozi said, perplexed, with her whiskers twitching. ¡°Why does our tech level matter here?¡± ¡°This model is tailored for hostile wildlife elimination and works flawlessly for its intended use,¡± Kaz then added. Andreas took another look at the gun, concentrating on the chamber and barrel. The barrel dimensions hinted at a large slug, likely big enough to kill an elephant or whatever freaky alien monstrosities were expected. The validity of Kaz''s words, at a glance, seemed evident; the gun, old-fashioned or not, appeared quite deadly. Andreas looked at Kaz again. ¡°Are all your weapons of this particular make?¡± ¡°It''s the standard issue for all our qualified security staff.¡± Kaz replied. ¡°Our inventory doesn''t include other models.¡± Andreas took another quick look at the gun and then passed it back to Kaz. Book 1: Act 2: Chapter 3: Part III Ross couldn¡¯t tell where they''d taken him, but it was vast, expansive, and dimly lit, except for a small, bright spot at the center. The spherical lights embedded in the steel floor were the only visible source of illumination. He was alone; the cat-like aliens who had escorted him had vanished into the shadows. ¡°Hey, where''d everybody go?¡± Ross inquired, his voice echoing as he scanned the chamber for any signs of activity. Nothing stirred; the chamber was as silent as it was vacant. ¡°Geez, you guys sure know how to make a place feel super creepy,¡± he said, his face reflecting his growing unease. Abruptly, the chamber was aglow, its floor and ceiling decked in a blue neon-like light grid casting a soft light. The encroaching darkness vanished, and Ross found himself at a wooden harbor facing a pristine tropical beach and quaint wooden huts at dawn, with the sun just starting to rise. The sea and air, refreshingly clean, contrasted sharply with the foul odor of Earth¡¯s polluted oceans. ¡°Whoa! Where the fuck am I?¡± Ross exclaimed, clearly puzzled yet amazed. Still incredulous, he moved forward, his gaze sweeping the area. He then looked down at the wooden dock beneath his feet, touching it as if to verify its existence. It certainly felt real, at least. ¡°Please, there''s no need to be frightened,¡± said an omnipotent voice, emanating from nowhere. The voice¡¯s sudden emergence, seemingly speaking directly into his mind, startled Ross. ¡°Okay, I know I didn''t imagine that,¡± Ross said, appearing deeply unsettled. ¡°Who''s inside my fucking head right now?!¡± ¡°I am Dr. Zelana Song, and you are presently within a computer-generated simulation designed by our ship,¡± the voice replied. ¡°I want to emphasize that your well-being is not at risk in any way.¡± Ross''s eyes bulged in disbelief. ¡°You trapped me in some giant alien video game?¡± ¡°Though I see why you might draw that parallel, referring to this as a ''video game'' would be somewhat reductive,¡± Zelana replied. ¡°It''s better to envision it as an immersive virtual realm where you possess the unfettered ability to express your creativity and imagination.¡± ¡°Okay, whatever.¡± Ross paused, his voice taking on an accusatory tone. ¡°But wait just a minute! Your voice sounds familiar!¡± he said, his stance now guarded. ¡°Aren''t you that alien brain whisperer bat thingamajig who made me sit through that dull-as-shit exam yesterday?¡± ***** Alien brain whisperer bat thingamajig? Zelana¡¯s snout gave a faint jerk. A tinge of irritation at the specimen¡¯s poor manners couldn¡¯t be helped, yet she found little surprise in its well-documented behavioral issues. The various research assistants, also observing from the observation bridge, mirrored her reaction. They stood watching through the viewscreen or manned their control stations to manage the simulation, their expressions predominantly marked by professional neutrality, yet subtly betraying a hint of bafflement. Vexed yet composed, Zelana kept her tone soothing and professional as she addressed the microphone device on her control console. ¡°Your recognition of my identity is accurate,¡± Zelana said. ¡°However, I must clarify that what you are experiencing now is not another exam, and I assure you that it will be far from tedious.¡± ¡°Then what the fuck am I supposed to be doing here?¡± the specimen asked, showing unprecedented rudeness. ¡°The possibilities here are entirely up to you,¡± Zelana replied. ¡°You are at liberty to traverse this virtual landscape, manipulate its features, and even bring into existence any objects that capture your imagination.¡± The specimen¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Whoa, back up a second!¡± it said, its voice filled with awe. ¡°You¡¯re saying that I can just snap my fingers and make whatever pops into my head appear out of thin air?¡± ¡°You have understood the concept accurately,¡± Zelana replied. ¡°You have unbounded liberty within this space.¡± A virtual psychological evaluation was, at its core, uncomplicated: Introduce the subject to a simulated environment where it enjoys unrestrained liberty, and then simply observe its preferred course of action. Despite its fundamental nature, such a procedure could unveil a wealth of insight into the subject''s culture and cognitive processes, paving the way for more focused future studies. ¡°Alrighty then.¡± The specimen surveyed its surroundings, its demeanor reflecting uncertainty about how to move forward. ¡°Might as well dive in and see what this stuff can do.¡± It paused, thinking about what to create. ¡°So, uh, how exactly do I go about whipping up some cool stuff?¡± it asked, following a brief pause. Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website. ¡°It''s quite simple,¡± Zelana replied. ¡°All you need to do is clearly state your wish to manifest the item you have in mind.¡± ¡°Alrighty! Here goes nothing!¡± the specimen said, sounding expectant. ¡°Abracadabra hocus pocus beachball!¡± it exclaimed a moment later, whirling its fingers in a bewitching maneuver aimed at the dock floor as if striving to manifest the object via some occult power. A red furrowed ball materialized from thin air on the wooden dock floor in front of him, to his slight disappointment, as shown by his changing expression and posture. ¡°What kind of monstrosity is this?!¡± Bending over, it picked up the ball and examined it, its face forming a frown. ¡°That ain''t no fucking beachball! It looks like my hairy testicle cosplaying as a dodgeball!¡± Seeing the specimen¡¯s disappointment with the spawned item, Zelana decided to clarify. ¡°Keep in mind that our knowledge of your species is still somewhat limited at this stage. As a result, there might be occasions where we fall short in accurately reproducing certain subtle aspects of your cultural context.¡± ¡°Huh¡­cool fucking simulation you got there!¡± the specimen scoffed before tossing the ball away. It paused again, evidently considering what to summon next. Zelana carefully noted every nuanced detail of its behavior. Though recorded for later review, these observations paled compared to on-the-spot examination. ¡°Create a giant inflatable dildo kayak!¡± the specimen declared, pointing at the shallow ocean water beside the harbor. A large, multicolored inflatable plastic replica of the specimen¡¯s reproductive appendage, featuring a cockpit and a double-bladed paddle, emerged on the water in front of it. The specimen burst into a juvenile cackle of happiness. ¡°Aw yeah, now that''s what I''m talking about!¡± it said happily, loudly smacking its hands together. Zelana''s eyes widened slightly, her cheeks briefly flushing red. She wondered if this odd choice indicated a cultural nuance she was unaware of, or if it simply signaled another aspect of its compromised mental state. From the others on the observation bridge, reactions varied, spanning from shock to mild amusement. Naturally, the few Mevik present were the only ones to exhibit the latter response. The specimen quickly took to piloting the so-called ¡®dildo kayak¡¯, though it struggled, the boat wobbling precariously in the water as it frantically navigated the harbor¡ªa situation that didn''t dampen its evident enjoyment. ¡°Look upon me and despair! I am now a giant kek an balls!¡± it barked defiantly with a coarse accent, followed by a menacing cackle. However, its ability to keep the strange boat afloat diminished with each passing moment. ¡°Uh, this thing is really not as easy to control as I thought it would be,¡± it said, frantically slapping the water on both sides with the paddles to keep the boat from capsizing. Its efforts were futile; the boat capsized regardless, and he fell into the water. ¡°Do not be alarmed,¡± Zelana said. ¡°Although the simulation accurately emulates the sensation of being immersed in water, it is programmed to eliminate any risk of drowning. If at any point you feel uncomfortable, simply say the word, and you will be removed from the wa¡ª¡± Surprisingly, the specimen just swam back to the dock and climbed up again. ¡°How fascinating,¡± Zelana remarked in a tone laden with professional curiosity. ¡°I would not have predicted that your species had adapted to thrive in aquatic settings.¡± ¡°Most of us schmucks haven¡¯t,¡± the specimen said, wringing water from its shirt after it had climbed back onto the dock. ¡°But when you''ve had your face shoved into as many toilet bowls as I have, you develop a certain level of resilience to water.¡± Zelana considered asking for clarification but refrained, as the simulation''s goal was to ensure uninterrupted observation. Over the next several minutes, the specimen entertained itself with its summoning powers, producing ever-stranger items, including a singing plant and a dancing breakfast sandwich. Zelana conceded that the specimen had at least shown some creativity in its choices, despite their strangeness. ¡°Man, this shit is getting boring,¡± the specimen said, the allure of its outlandish creations having evidently waned. Suddenly, its face broke into a giant grin. ¡°Holy shit I¡¯ve got an awesome idea!¡± it said, punctuating the statement with a theatrical hand gesture. Zelana kept a close watch, her nose twitching and her eyes glued to the monitor screen, anticipating the specimen''s next move. The specimen looked up at the sky, its posture erect and hands expanding into a V shape. ¡°I want a giant flaming meteor!¡± it barked with such force that it caused Zelana and everyone watching to wince. The skies shifted to a deep crimson as a fiery asteroid emerged and drew nearer. The specimen stood in its V pose, fists clenched and flaring, its face and eyes frantic as it started laughing hysterically. ¡°Yes! Yes! I am death incarnate! I am the destroyer of worlds!¡± he bellowed megalomaniacally, hands reaching for the sky as the flaming meteor drew closer, casting a shadow over the ocean and harbor, his voice escalating in frenzy. ¡°Kneel before your new deity! You worthless ants!¡± Alerted by the situation, Zelana promptly intervened. With a few key presses, the meteor vanished from the sky. ¡°You''ve got to be kidding me!¡± the specimen exclaimed, its prior triumphant posture sagging into disappointment, its hands limp at its sides. ¡°What happened to my glorious harbinger of doom?! It was just getting to the good part!¡± Zelana pressed a button on her console to restore the communication channel, then spoke into her microphone. ¡°I must kindly request that you abstain from conjuring entities that could potentially jeopardize the stability and coherence of the simulation,¡± she said, her tone slightly firmer than usual, yet maintaining politeness and formality. ¡°While you have been granted a great deal of autonomy, it is important to understand that there are still boundaries that must be respected.¡± ¡°Is that right?¡± the specimen replied, its irritation apparent. ¡°I love how your idea of ''no limits'' is about as flexible as a catholic priest''s erect cock!¡± It rubbed its chin in contemplation. ¡°Still, if I turn this place into a crater, there won''t be much left for me to do, will there?¡± Its contemplation extended for a moment more. ¡°Fine, I''ll just have to get my kicks elsewhere.¡± It started walking down the wooden pier toward the distant huts. Zelana noted the puzzled looks on her assistants'' faces but avoided staring. She didn''t need to; a quick, indirect glance revealed all she needed to know. It was apparent that she was not the sole individual puzzled by the unfolding spectacle. Her assistants, primarily Prol, did not need her Langan social aptitude to recognize the anomaly presented by this curious alien. Book 1: Act 2: Chapter 3: Part IV Andreas had already figured that this so-called recreational sector would probably be more impressive than the sparse options available on most human ships but was still taken aback when he witnessed it. He stood in the middle of the plaza in a casual pose, both hands resting inside the pockets of the new suit they¡¯d custom tailored for him earlier the same morning, his mouth agape. The sector imitated a small town in some regards, flaunting every extravagance expected from one, including restaurants, theaters, libraries, stores, and even a small stadium as the focal point. Astonishingly, the whole zone boasted a simulated day-night cycle with a convincing skybox mimicking a planetary surface. While some human vessels had comparable features, none matched this magnitude or realism. It even reproduced the gentle outdoor breeze one would anticipate in such a setting, despite no visible fans. The air smelled pleasant too, unlike the stale, recycled atmosphere on the rest of the ship. The architecture varied in familiarity. Some structures followed typical construction norms, using wood or concrete, while others incorporated exotic curves and materials uncommon in human designs. The spaceship''s interior limited most buildings to only a few stories in height. ¡°Pretty snazzy, huh?¡± Agozi asked, standing close by with Kaz. Andreas ceased his slack-jawed staring and shifted his gaze to her. ¡°Remarkable indeed,¡± he replied, displaying an insincere smirk. ¡°How do you manage these gentle breezes?¡± he asked, genuinely intrigued. ¡°Just a bit of magic,¡± a hint of jest in her reply. Andreas offered a momentary smirk, but swiftly restated his inquiry. ¡°Jokes aside, I''m genuinely intrigued. How does it work?¡± ¡°Truth be told, I''m not entirely sure,¡± Agozi replied. ¡°Some complex terraforming tech plus a little extra wizardry.¡± ¡°And this kind of setup is standard?¡± ¡°It''s important to note that the Minboa is a top-tier craft,¡± Kaz said. ¡°Granted, the Union does prioritize crew well-being across the board, but our amenities are unquestionably a cut above the rest.¡± Andreas performed a relaxed gesture of affirmation. ¡°Does this place draw inspiration from your home?¡± he asked, taking another quick peek at the ornate architecture. ¡°What you see here is a fusion of indigenous motifs drawn from multiple societies,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°Since our crew represents a rich tapestry of races, incorporating these relatable aspects helps create a more welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.¡± Andreas perceived an opportunity to gather information that might come in handy. ¡°On that note, what''s the headcount?¡± ¡°The Minboa''s maximum crew capacity hovers around the twenty-thousand mark, although this figure is subject to variation depending on the racial makeup and operational requirements,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°Typically, its twelve to fifteen thousand, but the scale of our current undertaking is more ambitious, resulting in a current workforce of roughly seventeen thousand.¡± ¡°And the security detail?¡± ¡°What of it?¡± ¡°I''d wager providing protection to such a vast crew is no small feat,¡± Andreas replied, feigning simple curiosity and innocence while actually assessing the magnitude of his opposition. ¡°Those armed security we ran into before, what''s the total count on those?¡± The query appeared to take Kaz slightly by surprise, causing a change in his stance. ¡°We have a sufficient number,¡± he replied, after a momentary delay. ¡°No need to fret over your well-being,¡± Agozi said reassuringly. ¡°Our security''s more of a precaution than a necessity; we only really need ''em when we''re setting foot on unknown terrain, and even that''s not a hard and fast rule.¡± ¡°Lieutenant Agozi''s assessment is accurate,¡± Kaz said. ¡°The matter of our security measures is not one that need occupy your thoughts.¡± Andreas displayed an insincere smirk, his focus bouncing between the two extraterrestrials a few times before he responded. ¡°Well, that certainly sets my mind at ease,¡± he said, his inflection outwardly genial but also conveying a measure of artificiality. ¡°Nevertheless, I hope you''ll indulge me regardless.¡± The Mevik duo swapped a transient, dubious glance, their eyes betraying both suspicion about his aims and a modicum of uneasiness. ¡°Within the ballpark of several dozen,¡± Kaz replied eventually. ¡°Only a few dozen, you say?¡± Kaz''s bearing altered yet again, and Agozi similarly seemed to dislike Andreas''s probing, though he could only conjecture how much they were inferring about his actual purposes for inquiring. ¡°Might I ask what prompts this line of questioning?¡± Kaz asked, his inflection wary yet not completely incriminating. Recognizing he had pried too far, Andreas chose to retreat. He had gleaned the most crucial piece of intel anyway and saw no need to appear even more suspect than he likely already did. ¡°Mere idle inquisitiveness, nothing more,¡± he replied. ¡°Let''s not dwell on it. I''m far more intrigued by the prospect of exploring this fascinating locale.¡± His belly emitted a famished growl, causing Andreas to glance at it briefly. ¡°On that note, I don''t suppose there''s a place a guy could score some grub around here, is there?¡± ***** Andreas couldn''t resist feeling a tad smug about the confused looks his cafeteria appearance had drawn. Perhaps unsurprising, given his towering height compared to the others. His alien status likely played a lesser role; everyone present was an alien. No particular rationale had driven him to opt for this precise restaurant. Truth be told, he lacked any knowledge of their menu or whether it would even be digestible for him. It was simply an arbitrary pick, no better or worse than any other. Andreas scrutinized the food service area. The layout didn''t differ greatly from the human equivalent, though interestingly, actual servers were personally serving the food in lieu of automated dispensers. Given the sophisticated technology he''d witnessed in other parts of the vessel, this detail seemed peculiar to him. ¡°No food dispensers?¡± Andreas asked Kaz, who was positioned close to him, accompanied by Agozi. If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. ¡°The technology exists, but the prevailing notion is that employing sentient beings to serve meals offers mental health advantages,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°Puts a little soul into it,¡± Agozi added. Andreas responded with a small nod of recognition. ¡°So, what kind of grub are they serving up in this joint?¡± ¡°The fare offered at this specific dining facility consists primarily of serin and wheat-based steak preparations,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°They''ve got a little something to satisfy every kind of craving, no matter what planet you hail from,¡± Agozi added. That sounded inviting, but Andreas''s ignorance of alien dishes left him confused. ¡°Forgive my ignorance, but what exactly is ''serin''?¡± Agozi''s snout and whiskers danced happily, her face beaming at the mere question. ¡°Imagine the juiciest, most flavor-packed meat your taste buds have ever encountered,¡± Agozi replied. ¡°That''s serin and then some!¡± ¡°The entire menu here is first-rate,¡± Kaz said. ¡°Snikers made certain of that with his costly investments, and although it''s a rarity, this may be an instance where his extravagance has produced something of actual merit.¡± They joined the serving queue. The majority of other diners were either Mevik or Prol, as they were seemingly named. The Mevik paid him more attention, although a few Prol would still divert their gaze from their plates to glimpse at him as the trio passed by. ¡°Seems like I''m turning more than a few heads around here,¡± Andreas said, queuing alongside Kaz and Agozi, awaiting their turn to be served. ¡°Your appearance is a factor, but it''s also worth considering that your species is entirely unfamiliar to them,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°The introduction of new species to the Exploration Division is a relatively rare occurrence, so their attention is probably driven by simple curiosity.¡± Following a brief wait, their turn to be served arrived. Andreas gazed at the array of food trays, each filled with extraterrestrial dishes, some appearing recognizable while others seemed more foreign. A Mevik server waited quietly across the counter, anticipating his order. ¡°Sorry, but I need you to order something,¡± it said eventually. ¡°My bad,¡± Andreas replied. ¡°I''ll have the serin meat, please, and a scoop of whatever that orange concoction is over there,¡± he said, motioning to something reminiscent of mashed sweet potatoes. The attendant used tongs to grasp a few slices of serin, then employed a serving spoon to collect a portion of the soft, orange substance that Andreas fervently hoped would resemble the flavor of sweet mashed potatoes. ¡°Same selection¡±, Kaz stated when their turn arrived. The trio settled at one of the tables. Upon sitting, Andreas realized he lacked utensils. None of the surrounding diners seemed to have any either. ¡°I take it you guys prefer the hands-on approach to dining.¡± ¡°How else would we eat? With our toes?¡± Agozi replied, her mouth partially full after taking a substantial bite of her meat. ¡°Technically, there are certain xenobiological entities that utilize their lower appendages for food consum¡ª¡± ¡°Forget I asked.¡± Andreas glanced at the white plastic plate which held his food. No sauce was present, though he hadn''t requested any. He was also uncertain about the meat''s seasoning, but it appeared cooked at a minimum. On the bright side, I can take comfort in the fact that this mystery meat has at least seen the inside of an oven. ¡°Does your plate offend you?¡± Agozi asked, noting Andreas''s hesitation. ¡°Oh, no, I''m sure it''s delightful!¡± Andreas picked up the alleged Serin meat and bit into it. While chewing, relief flooded through him. The flavor was not unpleasant, resembling spicy beef. ¡°Not half bad,¡± he said post-swallowing. ¡°Of course it isn¡¯t, that''s prime Serin,¡± Agozi said before consuming another substantial morsel of her own serving. Andreas now focused on the heap of orange pulp that also occupied his plate. If that meat didn''t kill me, this orange stuff probably won''t either, he mused. He scooped a bit with his fingers and placed it in his mouth. Big mistake. Andreas struggled to control his gag reflex but managed to swallow the substance through sheer willpower. Following a brief coughing fit, he glanced at them, unable to conceal his revulsion at what he had just consumed. ¡°Sweet mother of¡­¡± His features scrunched up in disgust and he barely managed to keep the stuff from spilling out. ¡°What ungodly creation is this?!¡± he asked, gesturing with repugnance at the orange pile of crap on his dish. ¡°Mouldmash,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°It''s a blend of slimemold and crushed intestines. Not cheap, I might add. Seems you''re quite the connoisseur.¡± Barely capable of concealing his repulsion, a feeble grin spread across his face. He realized they disliked it, but they deserved it after poisoning him like that. They continued eating, but Andreas chose to disregard the remaining goop of slimemash diarrhea. After a few minutes, Andreas reasoned that the relaxed atmosphere offered a prime chance to gather more information about his captors. And he did view them as captors, regardless of their persistent proclamations of altruism. ¡°So, this grand ''Galactic Union'' you keep mentioning¡­¡± Andreas said, feigning a laid-back attitude. ¡°What''s their endgame?¡± ¡°Put simply, the Galactic Union is a collaborative effort between various species to ensure universal well-being throughout the galaxy,¡± Kaz''s reply was official and businesslike ¡°Our team, part of the Exploration Division, functions within the Union''s fleet to¡ª¡± ¡°Spare me the PR spiel,¡± Andreas interrupted. ¡°I''m not interested in your rehearsed pitch about the Union''s supposed greatness. You''ve hammered that home already.¡± ¡°What''s the core of your question, then?¡± ¡°Your real purpose,¡± Andreas replied. ¡°Why this place? What''s the ultimate goal?¡± Kaz''s lip curled slightly as his voice briefly took on an impatient edge. ¡°We''ve been transparent about this,¡± he replied. ¡°Our mission is exploration, mapping uncharted space for the Union.¡± ¡°And then what?¡± Likely reacting to Andreas''s accusatory tone, Kaz hesitated, his fingers tracing the tabletop. Andreas wondered if this meant anger or frustration. ¡°Our next steps are determined by our findings.¡± While maintaining his formal tone, Kaz''s speech slowed noticeably. ¡°The majority of space is unremarkable, but when we encounter sectors with substantial value, be it resources or habitable worlds, they''re usually flagged for prospective utilization or colonization.¡± ¡°And suppose these planets you''re eyeing aren''t empty; how does that factor into your plans?¡± Kaz''s whiskers and snout twitched slightly before he responded. ¡°I assume you''re probing about the implications of the Union becoming aware of your race?¡± ¡°You''ve got the gist,¡± Andreas replied. ¡°What''s your plan for us?¡± ¡°We have no agenda,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°The Union''s philosophy is fundamentally non-interventionist. After official first contact, the next steps will be determined by your choices, not ours.¡± ¡°Look, we ain''t here to force our way of life on you. That''s not how we roll.¡± Agozi added. Andreas doubted every statement they made. Why would they claim otherwise, after all? ¡°But let''s say, for argument''s sake, you weren''t so benevolent,¡± he said. ¡°What sort of leverage could you actually exert?¡± The pointed question made Kaz hesitate once more. While Andreas couldn''t precisely read their emotions, their discomfort was evident. ¡°The Galactic Union''s laws are quite clear on this matter¡­¡± he replied eventually. ¡°Its constitution explicitly forbids it from exerting undue influence on sovereign entities.¡± ¡°We''re not about to start pushing anyone around,¡± Agozi seconded. ¡°After we say ''hello,'' it''s all on your higher-ups to decide what comes next. We''re just the messengers.¡± Andreas paused to reflect on their words. Their rationale didn''t seem implausible, but he''d heard human politicians spout similar rhetoric countless times before starting wars. ¡°My, my, such noble intentions,¡± he said, taking another mouthful of meat. He looked up from his food to the two of them. ¡°Tell me, does your hyper-advanced civilization by any chance have some H2O laying around?¡± Kaz gestured to a water fountain nearby, and he came back with a plastic cup filled with water. ¡°But let''s be real, the universe is hardly a small pond,¡± Andreas said. ¡°What''s your approach when you encounter folks who are...reluctant.¡± ¡°We''ve been at this for ages, literally,¡± Kaz had nearly finished his plate. ¡°We''ve integrated most of the known cosmos, though a handful of reluctant parties persist.¡± Andreas grew alarmed at the phrasing. ¡°¡­reluctant, is that so?¡± ¡°Let''s just say they have their reservations about membership.¡± ¡°Care to elaborate?¡± ¡°Some folks cling to old ways of thinking,¡± Agozi said, popping the last morsel of steak into her mouth. ¡°Doesn''t mean they''re right, but there you have it.¡± ¡°But barring those instances?¡± ¡°A coalition of our size isn''t immune to friction, but we''ve developed methods to address it,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°And do these ''methods'' ever leave any stains, perchance?¡± Kaz''s evasive, bureaucratic responses deepened Andreas''s mistrust and eroded his patience. ¡°¡­I must reiterate, there are stringent protocols in place preventing the Union from exploiting its position to¡ª¡± ¡°Cut the diplomatic bullcrap!¡± Andreas''s tolerance for Kaz''s evasive answers had finally ran out. ¡°I''m asking if disputes ever end in fatalities. I''m talking about real violence, about people dying. Do your so-called ''disagreements'' ever fill the morgues?¡± An abrupt, cold hush fell over the room, paralyzing Andreas''s surroundings. Kaz, Agozi, and those close enough to hear him stopped eating and stared, their faces etched with shock and disbelief in the frigid silence. Book 1: Act 2: Chapter 3: Part V Ross walked down the warm beach sand, having left the harbor to explore the boundaries of the beach. He marveled at the realistic sensations; the sand felt grainy and warm under his toes, and the ocean breeze felt refreshing and real. Or so he assumed; he''d never actually seen a real ocean or beach in person. You hairy rodents know how to pull off a decent VR setup, I¡¯ll give ya that, he mused, taking in the beautiful scenery. Suddenly, he paused his sightseeing as a faint melody and what sounded like singing drifted from nearby. ¡°Huh, seems I''m not the lone jerk around here,¡± he muttered to himself. ¡°Might as well see what all the fuss is about.¡± He roamed briefly before locating the music''s origin at the beachfront. The silhouettes and flickers of light, probably from tiki torches and bonfires, clearly indicated others were there. Gotta wonder if these guys are actually here or just part of the program, Ross pondered as he began his walk toward the assumed beach party. As he approached, the scene sharpened into focus, revealing various furry creatures dancing around a bonfire, moving rhythmically to music from percussion and wind instruments. Ross kept moving closer. He was soon approached by a small bipedal creature with the sleek profile of a mongoose, yet unmistakably alien looking, its large eyes warmly inviting him. ¡°Hey there, newcomer!¡± It greeted him with a high-pitched, welcoming tone. ¡°Don''t be shy! We''d be delighted if you''d join our merry gathering!¡± Ross responded to the joyous invitation with an excited change in posture and expression. ¡°Hell yeah! Now we''re talking my language!¡± Confusion soon marked his tone and expression. ¡°Uh¡­ what exactly are we celebrating?¡± ¡°The joy of being alive!¡± it replied happily. ¡°Every moment''s a treasure, so why not party? Come on in!¡± Ross''s tone swiftly reverted to its ecstatic state. ¡°Looks like some of you oversized fleas aren''t total buzzkills after all!¡± The large fruit buffet quickly captured his attention, and he approached it eagerly. The wooden buffet table, holding the fruit, was noticeably shorter than Ross, reflecting the shorter stature of the furry creatures who surrounded it. The array of fruits, diverse and exotic in shape and color, looked delicious. ¡°I''m gonna eat this. That cool with you, shagbag?¡± Ross asked one of the nearby creatures. ¡°By all means!¡± the creature replied in a welcoming manner, its gaze friendly and eyes sparkling. Ross eyed the buffet again and grabbed a fruit shaped like a pear but dark purple. ¡°This isn''t some kind of alien drug fruit, right?¡± he asked, glancing at the creature, sounding suspicious. The petite mongoose-esque alien let out a chittering laugh. ¡°Our fruits are purely for nourishment and pleasure, nothing more.¡± Ross turned his focus back to the fruit he held. Will I even be able to taste this? he mused. Only one way to find out. He bit into the fruit and started chewing. ¡°How''s it treating your taste buds?¡± the mongoose alien asked, his voice expressing genuine curiosity. ¡°Eh, not bad,¡± Ross replied. ¡°Has a pineapple thing going on.¡± Not wanting to finish, he turned and tossed the rest into the ocean. ¡°Delightful! Your enjoyment warms my heart.¡± The creature paused. ¡°Say, fancy shaking your tail with us?¡± Ross''s expression shifted to one of uncertainty. ¡°Well, to be frank, dancing isn''t exactly my strong suit...¡± he admitted awkwardly. ¡°Like, a six out of ten at most.¡± ¡°That''s not a problem,¡± said a second creature, a friendly looking female, who introduced herself as ¡®Mungo¡¯. ¡°Just tune into the rhythm and let it lead you¡± ¡°Uh, if you say so¡­¡± Ross moved to join the others at the center of the dance area, and the music and partying picked up again. It didn''t go particularly well. The furry creatures danced gracefully, their bodies seemingly in tune with the music. Ross meanwhile just flailed his limbs around like a robot suffering from critical systems failure. He could¡¯ve sworn a few of the creatures were chuckling at him, though the music''s loudness made it ambiguous. The spectacle of Ross''s awkward dance attracted growing attention, prompting several of the creatures to stop partying and stare. An accidental collision with another dancer brought Ross¡¯s dancing to an abrupt end, sending the other partygoer tumbling onto the buffet table. The music halted and all activity ceased; eyes turned instantly to the chaos Ross had caused. The buffet table lay overturned, with smashed fruit strewn around, drawing confused and mildly irritated glances. Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work! ¡°Shit, man¡­ you still breathing under all that fruit salad?¡± Ross asked, watching the creature labor to get up, its fur smeared with the remnants of the buffet. ¡°All''s well,¡± it replied, though the tremble in its whiskers, snout, and voice barely masked its irritation. Ross laughed at it. ***** ¡°Quite the oddball, isn¡¯t he?¡± The unexpected question caused Zelana to shift her gaze from the viewscreen toward the speaker. One of her research assistants, a petite female Mevik with brown fur clad in a lab coat, stood nearby, clearly intrigued by the livestream''s contents. As expected, Zelana mused irritably upon seeing the speaker¡¯s race. ¡°Is this considered normative conduct?¡± the assistant asked. ¡°Clearly abnormal,¡± Zelana replied after a pause, her ears slightly pinned back, mildly irritated by the unprofessional question not to mention interruption. The na?ve assistant noticed Zelana''s annoyed body language and returned to her passive demeanor. Zelana returned her focus to the simulation livestream. Although the assistant¡¯s observation was clumsily put, Zelana admitted it was near the truth. Despite this, much of what she''d observed thus far looked promising within the context of the situation. Excluding the unfortunate fruit incident, the specimen showed friendly and sociable traits, albeit with notable clumsiness. ***** ¡°At least no one''s bleeding.¡± Ross paused momentarily, looking queasy. ¡°Unlike that time with the kebab skewers.¡± The blank stare he drew from the creatures following his words led to an awkward pause. ¡°Uh, any party games?¡± he asked eventually. Mungo¡¯s ears perked and swirled forward ecstatically in response to the suggestion. ¡°Oh! We could play Pomelo!¡± she suggested eagerly, her eyes darting among the others in hope of agreement. ¡°What da fuq is Pomelo?¡± Ross asked curtly, his face showing rude confusion. Mungo explained to Ross that Pomelo was a type of ball game named after the fruit it used as the ball. The fruit¡¯s soft yet durable texture made it ideal for this purpose. The rules were straightforward, with the game essentially being a variation of ''keep it up¡¯. ¡°Mkay, that doesn''t sound so complicated,¡± Ross said. ¡°Fancy giving it a try?¡± ¡°Eh, fuck it I might as well¡­ not like that fruit''s good for anything else anymore,¡± Ross replied, noting the messy pile of fruit in front of the broken buffet table, followed by a loud, snorting laugh. His words caused Mango to exhibit second-hand embarrassment in her posture, prompting an awkward chuckle as she quickly suggested starting the game. Unfortunately, Ross struggled with the fruit game as much as he had done with the dancing; he often missed catches, threw the fruit too hard, sending it out of bounds, and sometimes crushed it unintentionally with his strong grip, requiring it to be replaced frequently. Their amusement at Ross''s evident ineptitude was too much to hide, and he often overheard their chittering. At first, it didn¡¯t bother him, but as the failures piled up, he found it more and more annoying. ¡°Maybe try aiming a bit lower than the clouds?¡± Mungo teased, after Ross propelled another fruit into the abyss, eliciting yet more teasing and chittering. Ross stopped momentarily, his body language indicating growing irritation, then his voice took on a tone of passive-aggressive taunting. ¡°How about I aim for that smartass mouth of yours instead?¡± Mungo''s smile disappeared, and the others appeared similarly startled by the comment. ***** Zelana jolted upright in her seat, her spine snapping taut. Her ears swiveled forward sharply, and her eyes widened, blinking rapidly in a silent display of alarm. The specimen had subtly threatened physical violence. She observed with growing apprehension, her eyes darting between the specimen and the NPC as the tense exchange unfolded. ***** Ross couldn¡¯t endure the mockery any longer and resolved to ''win'' in his own way. He remembered his power to summon objects in the simulation and pointed angrily at the beach sand ahead, as if issuing an order. ¡°Give me a fucking weapon! And make it the ballistic kind!¡± A rifle-like object materialized on the beach sand, and Ross swiftly retrieved it. Mungo and the group watched him, more perplexed than alarmed, their bewildered snouts glancing at each other, uncertain of what he planned. ***** Zelana tensed suddenly¡ªher eyes shot wide, ears snapped upright, and her lips quivered. She blinked rapidly, a visible shudder rippling through her snout. The shock wasn¡¯t Zelana¡¯s alone; the others in the observation chamber also appeared clearly taken aback by what the specimen had just summoned. No¡­ it cannot¡­ she thought frantically, her eyes wide and fixed on the stream, refusing to believe what she saw even though the evidence indicated she was mistaken. ***** ¡°I''m not following,¡± Mungo said, her voice carrying a tone of puzzlement with a hint of uncertainty. ¡°Are you introducing a different game?¡± ¡°Damn straight it''s a new game!¡± Ross replied villainously. ¡°It¡¯s called ¡®Who¡¯s laughing now!¡¯¡± Before anyone could react, his hysterical, villainous laughter filled the air as he fired over and over, reducing Mungo and the others to bloodied carcasses on the sand, transforming the beach into a violent scene of death. The beach now fell to a haunting silence, broken only by the lapping of the ocean waves. ***** Silence enveloped the observation chamber as no one could find words after witnessing the carnage; horrified, they kept their eyes glued to the livestream, unable to look away. That the violence had been performed on simulated NPCs only partially lessened the horror; simulated or not, they¡¯d looked and acted real enough to evoke empathy. As the initial shock subsided, some began to feel queasy, including the research assistant from before, who swooned and collapsed onto the floor with a soft thud. The rest appeared visibly distressed but coped better. As a Langa, Zelana was more severely affected than most, yet she still managed to avoid fainting. However, her professional composure was shaken, and she fought hard to suppress her urge to retch. ¡°S-Stop the simulation immediately!¡± she eventually managed to assert, her tone as authoritative as she could muster. ***** With nothing left to shoot, Ross walked over to Mungo¡¯s mangled corpse, lying a few feet away in the sand, her torso riddled with holes and parts of the head missing. The others were in a similar condition. He nudged the limp body with his rifle¡¯s barrel. ¡°Holy crap, this sim is next level!¡± he exclaimed, thrilled by the realistic gore. ¡°Look at all that gory detail! Guts everywhere!¡± Before Ross could further admire his work, the world around him flickered and the simulation abruptly ended. He found himself standing once again in the large chamber where he had started. ¡°Hey! What''s the big idea?!¡± he said, clearly irritated at being pulled prematurely from the best murder simulator he''d ever experienced. An unseen door whooshed open nearby, and several cat aliens strolled out, one clutching a straitjacket and another an injector device. Their postures and movements indicated displeasure. Concern etched itself across Ross''s face. ¡°Uh, we''re all good here, right?¡± Book 1: Act 2: Chapter 3: Part VI The uncomfortable silence persisted, with Kaz, Agozi, and numerous incidental listeners gaping at him as if stuck in a suspended state. Andreas realized his bluntness had been a misstep; he''d anticipated disapproval, but not the mass recoil his question had provoked. ¡°I... what?!¡± Agozi exclaimed eventually, breaking the stillness, her eyes widening in disbelief, fur bristling slightly as her posture stiffened. Andreas would''ve defused the situation with a lighthearted comment or joke, but the atmosphere''s dramatic shift left him at a loss. His lips moved, yet no words emerged. ¡°Pardon me¡­¡± He attempted to sound genuine but failed somewhat, due to his dazed state caused by the social vacuum that had formed around him. ¡°My intention wasn''t to phrase my inquiry so... inelegantly.¡± In hindsight, Andreas recognized his lapse in judgment; his imposing size, combined with their visible discomfort, had made him cocky. He''d need to avoid this mistake in the future. ¡°I''m less concerned with how you said it and more with what you''re implying,¡± Kaz said, his voice now carrying a markedly sterner tone. ¡°I need you to elaborate on this ''real violence'' you mentioned¡­ what exactly are you getting at?¡± The crowd around them had returned to eating, likely feigning politeness to avoid appearing nosy now that the initial shock had faded. Agozi, however, continued to gape judgmentally from across the table. Andreas recognized it was too late to deescalate, so he continued his inquiry albeit with slightly more restraint and more cautious phrasing. ¡°Fighting,¡± he replied, cutting to the chase. ¡°Let me phrase this as frankly as I can¡­¡± he said, hunching closer until he met Kaz''s eyes. He spoke in a measured tone. ¡°How frequently do quarrels in your Union turn violent, with opposing factions resorting to physical force to settle their differences?¡± Andreas now faced renewed silence; many onlookers abandoned their pretense of disinterest. Agozi''s and Kaz''s shock turned to horror, their whiskers twitching frantically. Agozi''s snout appeared to verge on queasiness. If his earlier questions had spawned a chilly atmosphere, this one had frozen it solid. ¡°Surely this is an error in our language processing algorithms,¡± Kaz said eventually. ¡°Our grasp of your language is still in its infancy, so it''s not unexpected that there might be some¡ª¡± ¡°You heard me perfectly well,¡± Andreas interrupted. ¡°I''m asking how regularly you lot resort to offing each other when diplomacy fails. That''s the crux of my inquiry. No linguistic mix-up involved. You comprehended perfectly.¡± After a short silence, he added a reassuring comment to ease tensions. ¡°Of course, I''m merely asking to assess the potential risks to myself and my kind.¡± ¡°But why?¡± Kaz replied, clearly staggered and struggling to comprehend Andreas''s explanation. ¡°What conceivable reason could you have for posing such offensive questions?¡± ¡°¡¯Offensive¡¯ doesn''t even begin to cover it!¡± Agozi bristled, her body language radiating anger and disbelief. ¡°This is hands-down the most twisted, messed-up drivel I''ve ever heard!¡± ¡°All occupants of this vessel are civilized beings!¡± Kaz said, his tone betraying utter astonishment. ¡°The notion of willfully inflicting harm on another is utterly inconceivable to us!¡± ¡°Nobody would even think of it, here or anywhere else in our society¡­ much less use it to resolve standoffs.¡± Agozi said, her hands moving sharply to emphasize her displeasure. Andreas''s almost vacant gaze betrayed his skepticism as he reacted to their statements. ¡°Says you and your companion¡­ with all due respect, despite your polite demeanor, I''ve observed several things today that don''t align with your claims.¡± Andreas spoke deliberately, striving to convey his point clearly. ¡°Consider the armed escort incident; you self-righteously tout your peaceful nature, then a bunch of armed security strolls past us.¡± His eyebrows arched, and a wry smile played on his lips as his voice took on a sardonic edge. ¡°Your rushed excuse about ''self-precaution'' rings rather hollow.¡± Kaz and Agozi exchanged uncertain glances. Andreas flashed a sardonic smile despite knowing it might unsettle them, then pressed on with his dialogue before they could interject. This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. ¡°Who''s to say you don''t have a fleet of dreadnaughts lurking just beyond our sensors?¡± He inched his face nearer, his tone and manner becoming playfully doubtful. ¡°The crux of the matter is this: I''m skeptical of your intentions, and notwithstanding your hospitality today, I''d wager you''re equally wary of me.¡± He reclined back into his original position, clasped his hands on the table, and glanced between them, awaiting a reaction. A long silence fell. Andreas sensed he''d stunned them both, and a faint trace of a smile appeared on his lips, despite his efforts to hide it. As Kaz opened his mouth to speak, his communicator buzzed. ¡°Captain speaking¡­¡± A moment elapsed as he listened to the caller''s message. ¡°Acknowledged. I''m on my way.¡± He switched off the communicator, returned it to his belt, and rose. His stern gaze fixed on Agozi. ¡°A complication has arisen with our other specimen that demands my immediate presence. You''re in charge here until further notice.¡± He turned towards the foyer and strode to the exit. ¡°W-Wait!¡± Agozi protested desperately, extending her arm towards his departing figure. ¡°You can''t just abandon me here with this¡ª¡± ¡°This ¡®what¡¯?¡± Andreas asked instantly, greatly amused by her response. ***** Agozi''s anxious eyes shifted back to the specimen following its pointed question. Her whiskers quivered faintly, and her lip fidgeted. Everybody had been thrown for a loop by the full-on loony ramblings about violently forcing compliance or whatever the abyss it was ranting about. Kaz had bailed on her, spouting some vague reasons about the other specimen acting up, and she was now stuck caretaking this unpredictable alien by herself. In other words, the situation had spiraled into a hot mess. The specimen Andreas maintained its stare from its side of the table, its enormous, prehistoric-like jaw resting in its massive palms in a pensive pose. Not even the craziest Mevik would look at you that way. Its previous mad mutterings didn''t help. Her gut had always told her something was off, but she''d brushed it off as harmless. Now, she was beginning to question whether that assessment had been a tad too optimistic. In an instinctive act of self-protective reflex, Agozi withdrew her hand from the table, hiding it from sight. The specimen produced unsettling vocal eruptions and revealed its flat chewing teeth, an act which only heightened her ever-increasing discomfort. ¡°My, my, you''ve gone all fidgety¡­¡± The specimen''s tone seemed lighthearted, but held an ominous undertone. ¡°Did I say something to ruffle your feathers?¡± it asked, a mischievous smirk playing across its lips, eyes glinting with amusement. ¡°Or fur, in your case.¡± Besides your daft blathering you mean? Agozi was now convinced that they''d crossed paths with a certified loon. Nervous tics manifested as her fingers fidgeted involuntarily. ¡°Say, that stadium-like structure at the center¡­¡± the specimen said with an easy-going elocution. ¡°I''d love to see it up close. Care to indulge my curiosity?¡± Agozi did not respond. ¡°I''ll be back in a moment,¡± she said, rising from her chair and heading toward a nearby restroom area, the specimen''s gaze following her silently. After entering a restroom stall, she fished out her communicator and hailed Kaz. Establishing the connection took more time than expected. ¡°What''s the situation?¡± he replied eventually. Agozi''s upset was clear. She kept her voice low, wary of potential listeners in adjacent stalls. ¡°Are you serious?!¡± Agozi''s hand clenched the communicator as she spoke, her whiskers quivering with vexation and disbelief. ¡°How could you just walk away and leave me with it?¡± ¡°What''s the problem?¡± Kaz asked, his voice a mix of concern and composure. ¡°The ¡®problem¡¯ is that I''m left alone with this mentally scrambled simian¡­¡± she spat into the commutator, her tone razor-sharp and seething. ¡°All respect due, but I''m no longer comfortable being around that creature without knowing more about what''s going on!¡± Kaz took a moment before responding. ¡°You''re speaking as though you believe it might harm you.¡± ¡°After those disturbing comments, how can I be certain that it won''t?!¡± Agozi replied, her voice subdued yet fast-talking. ¡°Did you not hear the outrageous things it was saying?¡± Kaz¡¯s tone now took on a terse character. ¡°I need you to approach this rationally, not with unfounded hysteria,¡± he replied sternly, and then paused. ¡°The xeno-psych team''s got a situation with the specimen Ross. I''m en route to assess.¡± ¡°What situation?¡± Agozi replied, a hint of anxiety in her tone. ¡°The specifics are still unclear at this point,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°From what I gather, there were complications with the sim test. Zelana had to pull the plug early.¡± ¡°Just that?¡± Agozi asked, untensing slightly. ¡°Well, that doesn''t sound too bad...¡± ¡°The situation was triggered by Ross attacking some of the virtual population.¡± Agozi''s anxiety resurfaced pugnaciously, widening her eyes and raising her body hair. ¡°How are you not more alarmed by this?!¡± she asked, growing increasingly frantic. ¡°Let''s face it, there is something about all this that just feels seriously off-kilter!¡± She pressed her back against the stall door, ears flattened against her head, her eyes darting nervously around the confined space. ¡°We need to confine that screwball to its quarters immediately! And it stays put until and unless we can come up with a compelling reason not to!¡± ¡°And just how do you propose we pull that off?¡± Kaz asked, sounding stern. ¡°We''ve bent over backwards to build trust with this specimen. Locking it up now would demolish our credibility and validate every paranoid thought it''s had about us.¡± ¡°So what exactly am I meant to do here?¡± she asked, casting a furtive look behind her for onlookers or the specimen. ¡°Carry on as we have been,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°Guide it to where it wants to go. Give it a tour of the facilities. Let it explore within reasonable limits. I''ll contact you once I''ve handled this situation.¡± ¡°But¡ª¡± Kaz disconnected, leaving her no room for dissent. Book 1: Act 2: Chapter 3: Part VII ¡°Well, this is it¡­ you''re standing in Minboa''s very own stadium,¡± Agozi said as the two of them entered the stadium concourse, using Mevik body language to signal they''d reached their endpoint. The entrance''s lack of security measures surprised Andreas as crew patrons entered and exited without hindrance. ¡°There''s no restriction on who can enter or leave?¡± he asked Agozi, who stood beside him. ¡°Uh, yeah?¡± she replied, visibly perplexed by his query. ¡°It''s not a mental ward¡­ it''s a place to have fun.¡± Andreas hesitated briefly before deciding against asking another question, letting the matter go. ¡°I see¡­¡± He turned his gaze elsewhere. It then dawned on him that nearby patrons were curious about his presence, staring when they assumed he wouldn''t catch them. ¡°Seems I''ve become something of a spectacle,¡± he said, casually glancing around while pretending to admire the architecture. ¡°It''s because you''re so tall, even taller than us Mevik.¡± ¡°Just that?¡± Agozi''s whiskers twitched nervously, her eyes darting to the side. Andreas responded with a knowing smirk. ¡°No matter. Why don''t we check out what games they''re playing here?¡± Agozi proposed a brief tour of the Stadium facilities, and Andreas agreed. The ¡®stadium¡¯ was actually a hybrid facility with gyms, playing fields, and a central stadium. Though limited in scope, it was still impressively big for being inside the ship, or so Andreas thought. An interesting thing Andreas noticed during the tour was that most patrons he''d seen seemed to be from Agozi''s own species, the humanoid cat-like aliens she''d called ¡®Mevik¡¯. Their heights varied somewhat, though most fell between Kaz and Agozi in stature. Andreas towered over nearly all of them. He noted a spectrum of fur colors: brown and black were prevalent, red less so, and yellow and white were rare, with white being the least common. Andreas pondered whether the Mevik had color-based social biases, similar to humans, but decided against inquiring. ¡°This place appears popular with your kind.¡± Andreas noted the gym''s emptiness, save for the Mevik and himself, as they stood in the center of the area they''d entered minutes ago. ¡°You''ve got that right!¡± Agozi replied, her whiskers quivering with pride. ¡°In terms of raw athleticism, we Meviks are in a league of our own!¡± Her ears suddenly drooped faintly, and she hunched her shoulders a bit. ¡°Don''t get me wrong, the other races have their strengths¡­ just maybe not in the physical department. I mean¡ª¡± ¡°I guess what you¡¯re trying to say is that you focus first on cultivating the corporeal whereas the others prefer nurturing the soul,¡± Andreas said, offering a polite nod and half-smile. Agozi blinked rapidly, her mouth opening slightly before closing again. ¡°Well, I guess you could say it like that¡­ yeah, that''s pretty accurate.¡± Andreas responded with a tight-lipped smile. He wondered how this alien gym would measure up to its human counterpart. ¡°Care if I take this equipment for a spin?¡± ¡°Sure thing.¡± To his disappointment, the gym mirrored most human facilities he''d seen. It housed treadmills, diverse exercise machines, and a members'' lounge for rest and socializing. The machines'' appearance also wasn''t notably alien, probably stemming from Mevik¡¯s human-like body structure. Andreas approached one of the machines, a pulldown type. He examined it briefly but couldn''t locate the weight adjustment. ¡°Any idea how to adjust the weight on this contraption?¡± he asked Agozi, who''d joined him at the machine and now stood a few feet away. ¡°The lever controls the weight,¡± she replied, pointing to a handle on the machine. She explained the pulldown bar configuration and adjusted the setup to accommodate Andreas''s height. ¡°Word of advice though: Our numerical system might as well be gibberish to you... why don''t you start easy?¡± ¡°What''s the current weight?¡± ¡°I''ve put it at 22 pounds,¡± Agozi replied. ¡°Likely too easy for you, but it''s safer to begin gently. We want to avoid breakage, and I don''t mean the machine.¡± Andreas raised an eyebrow and chuckled softly. ¡°Oh please! I''ve lifted heavier plates at dinner.¡± He eyed the handle; it adjusted the weight by half-pound increments. He used his right hand to double the starting weight to 50 pounds, causing Agozi to look concerned. ¡°Wait, maybe we shouldn''t¡ª¡± Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation. Andreas cut her off, smoothly lowering the bar. He breezed through two sets of fifteen reps. ¡°As I mentioned¡­ merely a warm-up.¡± Agozi observed his workout without comment. Andreas completed several progressively heavier sets until the machine capped at 110 pounds. ¡°What''s stopping it from increasing?¡± he said, his voice laced with frustration and a hint of contempt. ¡°You''ve hit the top weight already¡­¡± Agozi replied, her whiskers twitching slightly and her tone carrying a note of surprise. ¡°Is that a fact?¡± Andreas said tauntingly as he smoothly rose from the seat, rolling his shoulders back. ¡°Well, that was disappointingly easy. One would''ve expected that training equipment for a race that''s in a ¡®league of its own¡¯ would''ve offered more of a challenge.¡± His words a clear jab at Agozi''s earlier boasts about the Mevik¡¯s supposed fitness, amusing him by their likely irritation to her. And it worked; Agozi¡¯s ears flattened against her head and she shifted her weight uncomfortably, avoiding eye contact. ***** Kaz strode purposefully through the Medical Bay. Zelana''s urgent message frustrated him with its vagueness; without specifics, he couldn''t judge the situation. Her distressed tone during the communicator call concerned him. The situation seemed grave. Whatever¡¯s going on, I expect a full explanation when I get there, and it had better be good, he mused irately as he approached the Intensive Support Wing, a special facility reserved for particularly unstable patients. ***** The door slid open with a soft hiss, revealing Zelana and two Mevik security guards. Upon spotting him, Zelana rushed forward. Her usual composure vanished, her long ears pressed back, and her fur appeared to stand on end. ¡°Captain, please forgive my distress, but we have a dire situation that demands your immediate consideration!¡± Her voice seemed shaken, a stark contrast to her usual measured tones. Kaz¡¯s whiskers jerked momentarily, taken aback by her uncharacteristic display of emotion. He''d never seen the Langan doctor so visibly shaken. ¡°I don''t know what has transpired here that has you so on edge, but it is of utmost importance that you maintain composure,¡± he said sternly. ¡°What exactly has occurred¡± Zelana visibly struggled to maintain her professional decorum. Her small hands clutched her datapad so tightly that her claws were scratching the screen. ¡°During the simulation test, the specimen Ross exhibited highly concerning behavior that I find profoundly disturbing from both a professional and ethical standpoint¡­¡± She paused, as if the next words made her too uncomfortable to continue. Kaz''s whiskers twitched and his eyes narrowed slightly. ¡°What type of behavior?¡± Zelana''s ears flattened further against her head, and her nose twitched rapidly as she steeled herself to speak. ¡°It began with only some minor antisocial actions at first, but quickly escalated into¡­¡± Her voice lowered a bit, and her words came out in short, clipped sentences. ¡°More concerning things. The specimen appeared to be integrating with the virtual inhabitants, until a series of events led to it¡­¡± Her voice trembled, and she had to take a pause before continuing. ¡°Engaging in lethal violence against them.¡± Kaz''s stance changed abruptly, betraying his alarm. He swiftly masked it, his expression returning to normal. ¡°Walk me through the entire sequence, from start to finish. I want every minute detail, regardless of how trivial it might appear.¡± Zelana outlined the simulation''s disturbing progression, from Ross''s initial strange behavior to his increasingly troubling episodes, culminating in his homicidal attack on the beach. ¡°This doesn''t add up,¡± Kaz said, his brow furrowing and whiskers twitching in concern. ¡°We''re clearly missing something. Are you absolutely positive you haven''t overlooked any details? Even the slightest thing that might have provoked this behavior?¡± ¡°After thorough examination, I can confidently state that the simulation operated without flaw,¡± Zelana replied. ¡°I''ve found no indication that language barriers contributed to the incident. The specimen''s actions were entirely of its own volition.¡± She tapped her datapad, bringing up a small holographic replay of the lethal episode, and Kaz watched in horror as Ross gleefully gunned down the simulated beachgoers, laughing all the while. Kaz stood motionless, his expression grave and shoulders tense, while Zelana''s hands trembled slightly as she clutched her datapad. ¡°The gravity of the specimen''s actions necessitated immediate intervention¡­¡± Zelana said as she shut off the holographic replay. ¡°I''ve authorized sedation and containment.¡± Kaz''s understanding of the situation''s severity didn''t prevent his knee-jerk reaction. His voice rose sharply, tinged with both surprise and indignation. ¡°You''ve sedated and imprisoned a sentient creature due to its troublesome behavior within an artificial environment?¡± Zelana''s nose wrinkled slightly and her posture straightened, her tone becoming firmer and carrying a hint of reproach. ¡°With all due respect, Captain, describing the violent decimation of sentient beings as merely ''troublesome'' fails to convey the true gravity of what transpired.¡± ¡°Simulated beings, Doctor Zelana,¡± Kaz reminded her, his voice deepening. ¡°Yes, it''s concerning and merits investigation, but your reaction appears extreme.¡± His tone sharpened, laced with skepticism. ¡°To such an extent that I must question whether your hasty response is entirely grounded in professional judgment.¡± Zelana''s ears twitched back momentarily, her voice tinged with surprise and a hint of indignation. ¡°Captain, your words carry an undercurrent I''m struggling to interpret.¡± Kaz took a moment, underscoring the seriousness of what he''d say next. ¡°Doctor, have you reflected on whether your Langan traits might be impacting your choices? That your inherent inclination towards caution might be skewing your¡­ judgment.¡± Kaz''s question triggered an instantaneous change in Zelana''s stance; her spine stiffened and her hands gripped her datapad more tightly, her voice rising with controlled intensity. ¡°The specimen intentionally manifested a lethal weapon and employed it with callous disregard for life!¡± She took a step closer, her eyes darting between Kaz''s, reflecting a mix of fear and urgency as they locked onto his gaze. ¡°This wasn''t a mere lapse in judgment; it was premeditated and executed without any external catalyst. It found amusement in it¡­¡± She spoke more slowly, her eyes revealing concern that nearly bordered on fear. ¡°In all my years of practice, I''ve never encountered such an alarming behavioral outlier.¡± She held her silence; a calculated move to heighten the tension. ¡°Captain, I must ask... if this situation doesn''t necessitate extraordinary measures... what conceivable scenario would?¡± Book 1: Act 2: Chapter 3: Part VIII A game was already in progress when they entered the main stadium, with about two dozen players per side, all Mevik. The playing space, covered with what seemed like artificial grass, resembled a typical soccer field but with a few differences: the field markings looked dissimilar, and it was oval-shaped instead of rectangular. There wasn''t much audience accommodation either, which actually made sense since the stadium was only for the crew. ¡°Those blokes over there,¡± Andreas said, pointing at the players on the field. ¡°What kind of game is that?¡± ¡°Looks like Snatchball to me,¡± Agozi replied, standing next to him, and then went on to explain the premise of the game. Two teams, each with about a dozen players, have a goalpost to defend. To score, a player must control the ball, called a ''snatch'', and get it into the opposing team''s goalpost. Players can only use their feet to move the ball. Andreas''s eyebrows raised slightly and the corner of his mouth twitched upward in amusement. ¡°What''s with the smirk?¡± Agozi asked in response to his reaction, having apparently noticed it. ¡°It''s interesting because we play something very alike.¡± He watched the game for a moment longer before turning back to Agozi. ¡°Do you think they''d object if I jumped in?¡± Agozi''s eyes widened and her whiskers twitched rapidly. She took a small step back, her posture stiffening. ¡°Adding another player would upset the team balance,¡± she replied almost instantly, her words tumbling out in a rushed stream. ¡°How about you join the other team, then?¡± Andreas asked, before bestowing upon her another one of his smiles that appeared friendly on the surface but carried a subtle challenge beneath. Her whiskers twitched hectically and she shifted her weight from foot to foot, clearly uneasy. She was about to respond when her ears perked up and she turned her head sharply towards the field, reacting to a voice calling out to them. ¡°Hi! Interested in joining?¡± the friendly Mevik player asked as he jogged over from the playing field, waving enthusiastically. ¡°First round''s over, and we''re short on players for both teams.¡± ¡°Looks like fate''s made the call for us,¡± Andreas said, giving Agozi a taunting look before heading toward the other players. ¡°Hold on, I''m not sure if¡ª¡±Agozi said, her ears drooping and whiskers sagging as she reached out a hand weakly, her protest fading as Andreas strode away, ignoring her entirely. ***** Andreas and Agozi made their way onto the field, joining their respective teams. The players lined up on opposite sides, with Andreas towering over the Mevik around him. A Mevik acting as referee placed the ball at the center of the field before stepping back. With a shrill blast of the whistle, the match began. Andreas exploded into motion, his long legs carrying him to the ball in a blur. He reached it well before any of the other players, scooping it up and sprinting towards the opposing goal. His speed forced him to slow slightly to maintain control, allowing some of the Mevik players to begin catching up. Before too long, it became clear that he wouldn''t outrun them. His own teammates were too far behind for a handoff, and realizing he had no other option, Andreas kicked the ball with immense force. The ball rocketed through the air as if moving at the speed of sound. It eventually contacted the ground several feet away from the goalpost and then bounced inside mere moment later. Andreas slowed to a stop, his chest heaving as he fought to catch his breath. Sweat beaded on his forehead and trickled down his face. He bent forward, resting his hands on his knees as he gulped in air. Andreas wasn''t an old man, but he wasn''t at his prime either. Still, he''d performed quite admirably considering his age. Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation. ¡°Looks like I''ve still got it,¡± he managed to spit out in-between his panting. He straightened up as his breathing steadied, only to find every eye on the field fixed on him in stunned silence. This prompted him to ask if he¡¯d broken the game¡¯s rules. ¡°Your play was unorthodox but still within bounds,¡± replied one of the Mevik players. ¡°If I didn''t break any rules, what''s with all the staring?¡± Andreas asked. ¡°Your method of moving the ball... it''s rather unconventional,¡± replied another player, following a brief pause. ¡°Players are expected to carry the ball into the goal,¡± another player added. ¡°But you kicked it.¡± Andreas''s face showed minor irritation and disappointment. ¡°Sounds like I did violate the rules after all.¡± ¡°No¡­ technically speaking,¡± the player replied quickly. ¡°As my teammate mentioned, the rulebook doesn''t prohibit it,¡± the other player said. ¡°We''re just amazed that it actually worked.¡± Andreas felt puzzled by why they''d consider a simple kick unorthodox. ¡°What''s the big deal about scoring with a kick?¡± ¡°That you can even execute such a move, to begin with,¡± the player replied, looking dumbfounded yet impressed. ¡°It''s just unbelievable,¡± said the other. ¡°We''d probably break something if we attempted that¡± ¡°Yeah, and likely in multiple places too,¡± the first player then added. Andreas''s eyebrows raised slightly, betraying considerable skepticism. ¡°¡­you seriously mean to tell me that you can''t boot this tiny leather ball without shattering your legs?¡± he asked, his brow furrowing in disbelief. ¡°When you''re dealing with a ton of force and weird angles, it doesn''t really matter what you''re kicking or how big it is,¡± said another player. ¡°You''ll end up with at least one ruined limb.¡± The conversation lingered until Andreas deemed it pointless. ¡°Shall we pick up where we left off?¡± he asked eventually. The Mevik agreed, and the game resumed. Andreas again reached the ball first, his long strides easily outpacing the Mevik. But this time, the others had come prepared with a counter strategy of their own; several opposing players quickly moved to block Andreas''s path to the goal, fanning out to cut off his angles. He considered a kickoff but saw no teammates nearby. With no alternative, he kicked the ball with even more force than before. It was a total gamble, but maybe he''d get lucky again. The result wasn''t what he''d hoped for; the ball rocketed through the air, slamming directly into the face of an opposing player with a sickening crack. The Mevik let out a sharp yelp of pain as blood and teeth sprayed from his mouth. Dazed by the powerful blow, he crumpled to the ground, clutching his bleeding snout with both hands and whimpering in agony. The field instantly froze, players stopping mid-stride as shocked gasps rippled through the crowd. Several Mevik, including Agozi, rushed to the fallen player''s side to assess the damage. ***** ¡°How bad is it? Can you move?¡± Agozi asked the injured Mevik player as she drew nearer. ¡°What do you think?! I''m bleeding everywhere!¡± the injured Mevik replied angrily while writhing on the ground, paws pressed to his face as blood seeped between his fingers. Andreas approached and leaned over the injured Mevik to survey the damage. ¡°Apologies mate.¡± His tone was casual, almost bored, betraying little genuine remorse. ¡°That wasn''t my intention.¡± ¡°Your intentions don''t change the outcome¡­¡± the injured player said while clutching its snout with both hands in an attempt to stop the bleeding. Agozi shouldered Andreas aside, kneeling to better examine the injuries. Though far from life threatening, the injury still looked pretty nasty; the Mevik''s snout was visibly misshapen, clearly broken, with several teeth missing from his bloodied mouth. Crimson streamed steadily from both his nose and the gaps in his teeth. ¡°He needs immediate medical attention,¡± Agozi said, rising swiftly to her feet. ¡°Infirmary, now.¡± Moments later, a medical team arrived, carefully lifting the injured Mevik onto a stretcher before whisking him away towards the medical bay. ¡°I assume we''re calling it quits with this game, then?¡± Andreas asked once the injured Mevik was no longer within sight. ¡°The game''s not over just because of this,¡± one of the Mevik players replied. Andreas''s eyebrows shot up, his head tilting to the side in surprise. ¡°I''m surprised you''re all so calm about this,¡± Andreas said. ¡°Aren''t you upset at what happened to your mate?¡± ¡°We understand it wasn''t intentional,¡± another player said. ¡°We''re not going to hold it against you¡±. ¡°Right,¡± seconded another. ¡°We''ve all had our share of mishaps on the field. It comes with the territory.¡± Though most of the Mevik players seemed less upset than Andreas expected, he noticed Agozi''s posture was far less forgiving; her ears were flattened, whiskers quivering with barely suppressed anger as she glared at Andreas. ¡°But we have to ask that you refrain from using that move again,¡± said one of the players. ¡°From here on out, stick to our playstyle,¡± said another. ¡°No more booting the ball across the field.¡± Andreas''s lips curled into a small smirk, his eyes gleaming with self-satisfaction even as he affected a humble tone. ¡°Suppose it would be unfair to keep using such an overpowered tactic.¡± When he saw the poor response to his smug comment manifest itself on their snouts, he hurried to paraphrase. ¡°My apologies, I meant to say ''unsuitable'' tactic. The translator can be a bit unreliable at times.¡± Agozi doubted this was the real reason, but his words seemed to work as the disgruntled players looked less offended. ¡°Alright, enough chatter... we''ve got a match to complete!¡± the Mevik player said. Book 1: Act 2: Chapter 3: Part IX/Final No longer facing the ominous threat posed by his kicks, the Mevik fared far better, and before too long they¡¯d scored several goals against his team. Nonetheless, the match was far from over since his speed and maneuverability continued to pose a serious challenge for them. A loud beeping noise emitted from the speaker system heralded the midgame break. The exhausted players trudged off the field, making their way to a nearby rest area equipped with benches and a water fountain. They gratefully gulped down water and sprawled on the benches, preparing for the second half. ¡°You''re really light on your feet for someone your size,¡± one of the players said to Andreas after they''d settled in the rest area. ¡°As evidenced by the fact you''re losing,¡± Andreas replied tauntingly. ¡°Sharp on and off the field, I see,¡± the Mevik replied, not at all irritated by the smug response. The players filed back onto the playing field and the match resumed. Things progressed in a similar fashion as previously, with both teams scoring some points but with Andreas nudging the balance in his own team''s favor. Five minutes remaining, the speaker system warned. Both teams were tied. With only a few minutes left, the next score would guarantee a win. Andreas didn''t care for letting the match end in a tie. His eyes locked in on the opposing ballcarrier. ***** Without any warning, the specimen Andreas accelerated his speed by an order of magnitude. Agozi''s eyes widened in alarm, her whiskers standing straight out as she watched Andreas''s sudden burst of speed. Her stomach clenched with dread, sensing he was up to no good. Why isn''t he decelerating? At that speed he''s going to¡ª After closing the distance, the specimen tackled the ballcarrier which sent him flying into the air. The impact generated a thud as his body slammed into the ground followed by several unpleasant cracking sounds. A series of agonized yelps erupted from the crumpled form of the ballcarrier, bringing the game to an instant halt. Players from both teams rushed to crowd around the fallen Mevik. ¡°Hey, can you hear me? Talk to me! How bad is it?¡± Agozi hurriedly asked the poor carrier. ¡°M-my leg... I think... I think it''s broken¡­¡± the carrier replied with a brittle voice. Mucus leaked from its snout. Agozi knelled down and examined the injuries. The fibula bone had clearly snapped since pieces of it stuck out of the flesh. A life-threatening injury without medical intervention. Within moments, a second medical team arrived on the scene. Agozi''s eyes tracked their movements as they carefully loaded the incapacitated ballcarrier onto a stretcher and swiftly departed the stadium. ¡°I suppose we can cross him off the roster for the foreseeable future, eh?¡± Andreas asked, a faint smirk playing at the corners of his mouth, his tone carrying an undercurrent of amusement despite the grim circumstances. Agozi, who had failed to notice Andreas¡¯s approach, flinched violently. Her ears shot up and she whirled around to find him looming over her. ¡°Oh, excuse me,¡± the specimen Andreas said. ¡°Didn''t intend to catch you off guard there.¡± His voice dripped with barely concealed mockery. Agozi had now had enough. She surged to her feet, fur bristling and teeth bared in a snarl as her patience finally snapped. ¡°That was no accident!¡± she growled, her voice trembling with rage. ¡°You deliberately knocked him down!¡± Andreas''s face remained impassive, his eyes cold and unfeeling as he regarded her outburst. ¡°Yes, rather regrettable... that incident,¡± he replied, his expression utterly devoid of concern. ¡°Hopefully the poor chap isn''t too severely hurt. I do apologize.¡± Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon. Agozi''s anger and disbelief grew even more intense, her whiskers quivering with barely contained fury at Andreas''s callous reaction. ¡°Sorry?! That''s all you have to say?¡± she asked aghast. ¡°You almost ended someone''s life, and that''s your pathetic response?!¡± Her voice rose to a near-shriek, thick with outrage. ¡°Are you even aware that your actions could have been fatal?¡± Though only a broken leg, such a severe injury could''ve caused the unlucky player to go into shock without treatment. Without medical intervention, survival prospects would not have looked good. The fact that the specimen didn''t even seem to care was nothing short of mind-boggling, not to mention morally repugnant. The specimen Andreas fell silent for a moment, his brow furrowing slightly as if mildly surprised by her words. ¡°Well, that''s new information¡­¡± it replied eventually, its expression still just as blank and unfeeling. ¡°No... I was unaware of that possibility. Fascinating how fragile your kind appears to be¡­ I''ll make a mental note of it. My apologies.¡± Agozi and the other Mevik present stood in stunned silence, aghast at Andreas''s cold indifference and what appeared to be utterly sociopathic behavior. ¡°That move is called a tackle, incidentally,¡± the specimen Andreas said eventually. ¡°It''s considered a normal play where I''m from.¡± ¡°Your sports involve potentially killing each other?¡± one of the players asked in utter disbelief. ¡°What even is a tackling move?¡± asked another. ¡°It doesn''t matter one bit!¡± Agozi said, her fur standing on end and teeth bared in a snarl. ¡°He deliberately hurt someone! The ''why'' doesn''t matter!¡± She paused, her eyes narrowing as she silently weighed her options, clearly furious yet uncertain how to proceed. Finally, she fixed Andreas with a withering glare. ¡°I don''t give a damn what Kaz said... this tour is done. You''re coming with me into custody. This ends now.¡± ***** Honorary-Lieutenant Snikers sat at his ornate desk, hands moving across holographic controls as he focused on his personal computer. His office contrasted sharply with those used by other high-ranking personnel on the Minboa, its opulence a testament to his elevated status. It incorporated Pretenti aesthetics; a plush purple carpet covered the floor, and intricate silver filigree adorned the walls. A luminescent, plant-like structure hung from the ceiling, its bioluminescent fronds casting an ethereal glow across the room. The decor reflected Snikers'' Pretenti heritage, a reminder of his inherent superiority among the ship''s mediocre simpletons. The significance of their impending accomplishments was lost on the mostly Mevik and Prol crew, their simple minds incapable of grasping the true importance. Their usefulness as cogs in the grand machine piloted by superior intellects was undeniable, yet expecting comprehension from such primitive beings would be an exercise in futility. Snikers'' hands moved over the holographic interface as he composed his message. Suddenly, his movements slowed. His whiskers twitched, and his tail swished uncertainly behind him. A flicker of doubt crossed his features as he contemplated his next action. A minuscule fraction of his conscience refused to completely disregard the pangs of guilt. The Lieutenant''s juvenile protests, while leaving a distasteful impression reminiscent of primordial intelligences, contained a kernel of truth. The manner in which their paramount mission had been presented to the crew lacked transparency, a fact that elicited a modicum of sympathy. Snikers straightened in his chair, his resolve hardening. His expression shifted subtly, a slight tightening around the eyes betraying his determination as he refocused on the task at hand. His hands moved with renewed purpose across the controls. Such trivial concerns were rendered inconsequential when weighed against the monumental reward awaiting them, encompassing the entire galaxy and all civilized life. Snikers eyed the holographic "Send" button, his gaze flicking between it and his message. He paused, whiskers twitching as he considered whether to add any final thoughts. Unbeknownst to Captain Kaz and the crew, their presumed communicator isolation was a carefully crafted illusion. The new experimental equipment''s capabilities extended beyond enhanced jumping distances, enabling deep-space messaging. This crucial information had been meticulously withheld from Kaz, whose repeated demonstrations of reluctance, along with his ever-defiant Lieutenant, had made their unwilling participation in this grand quest abundantly clear. Providing them access to higher authorities would only complicate matters unnecessarily. The illusion of isolation served everyone''s best interests. Snikers alone possessed the means to access the long-range communication channels, which he''d utilized to keep the Council apprised of recent developments. Snikers activated the "Send" command with a wave of his hand. A smug grin spread across his muzzle, his eyes gleaming with excitement and self-satisfaction. The Council''s ecstatic reaction to their unprecedented discovery ¨C a fully-fledged spacefaring civilization, the first in epochs ¨C coupled with the successful test run of the drive, was a foregone conclusion. Naturally, the credit for this momentous achievement would be rightfully claimed by none other than himself. At this juncture, what could possibly go wrong? Snikers'' communicator started buzzing, its sharp tone cutting through the quiet of his office. He turned away from the holographic interface, his tail twitching with mild annoyance at the interruption. ¡°Yes, what is it now?¡± he replied to the caller, his voice a blend of professional courtesy and barely concealed self-importance. ¡°The captain insists you join him in the briefing chamber immediately, sir.¡± Snikers''s tail flicked once, and his snout tightened almost imperceptibly. ¡°This seems beneath my station,¡± he replied dismissively. ¡°Surely the Captain''s lackeys can handle whatever mundane issue has arisen without my¡ª¡± ¡°The captain was quite adamant,¡± the caller interrupted. ¡°It''s an emergency meeting with all senior staff. Your attendance is mandatory and immediate.¡± Snikers''s ears perked up, his brows furrowing slightly. Book 1: Act 2: Chapter 4: Part I The sliding door hissed as Snikers entered the briefing chamber. High-ranking Minboa staff encircled the central holo-projector, including Kaz, Agozi, and Zelana. Silence filled the tense room. Snikers''s tail swished as he joined them, both curious and concerned. ¡°I trust this gathering warrants the interruption of my valuable time,¡± he said, his cultured accent dripping with condescension. His nose jerked sharply when he received only uncomfortable glances and averted gazes. ¡°Perhaps someone would care to explain why my precious schedule has been so rudely disrupted?¡± The atmosphere in the room hung thick as smog, and Kaz, looking even sterner than usual, took a deliberate moment before responding, probably to emphasize the serious nature of their business. ¡°Our current risk assessment may require significant revision,¡± Kaz said eventually with cold formality. ¡°Ain¡¯t that the understatement of the cycle¡­¡± Agozi scoffed, her eyes narrowing and whiskers bristling. Not appreciating vagueness, Snikers promptly inquired about the specifics while ignoring Agozi''s usual childishness, which he''d grown accustomed to through repeated exposure to her behavior. Kaz detailed the havoc caused by the Terran specimens. Snikers interrupted repeatedly, his disbelief mounting with each revelation. Agozi''s fur bristled more with each interruption, her irritation intensifying, but he ignored her. ¡°While your apprehension is noted, surely you''ve overlooked some crucial detail in your rather limited analysis,¡± Snikers said, sounding skeptical. ¡°Perhaps a cultural misinterpretation? Some vital subtlety that has escaped our notice?¡± ¡°Although one might earnestly wish it were so, there is currently little evidence for such a hypothesis,¡± Kaz replied. Snikers''s nose jerked in a cringe These primitive minds, always struggling to grasp the subtleties of civilized discourse¡­ he mused. ¡°You may believe so... however, I would vastly prefer the insights of someone with proper academic credentials in this matter, such as¡ª¡± Agozi suddenly snapped; she thrust herself forward with swift force, surprising both himself and Kaz. ¡°To hell with your credentials!¡± she barked at him, her voice carrying a sharp tone of accusation. ¡°That psychopath put two of our people in medical! What more proof do you need?!¡± Snikers''s nose wrinkled in distaste, his tail giving an irritated flick. ¡°I see our passionate Lieutenant simply couldn''t resist sharing her colorful perspective as usual.¡± His lips curled into a sardonic smile. ¡°How predictably tiresome.¡± The argument now escalated rapidly, with Agozi bringing up Snikers''s earlier dismissal of security concerns and how his supposed negligence had directly led to the current crisis. Though Snikers maintained his composure, his snout twitched rapidly while his tail coiled and uncoiled in agitation, betraying his growing irritation. ¡°My dear child, let''s endeavor to keep this discussion within the realm of reason rather than hysterical conjecture.¡± His civilized words proved ineffective against the simple Mevik who, with her ears now pinned flat against her head, responded by lunging forward several aggressive steps. The sudden movement made himself, Kaz, and even several nearby onlookers flinch in surprise. Snikers stumbled backward instinctively, his self-assured facade cracking for a moment. ¡°"Hysterical?!¡± Agozi snarled, her voice raw with outraged vexation. ¡°You weren''t anywhere near when it happened! You have no right to stand there and act like you understand! You weren''t there when they were bleeding on the¡ª¡± ¡°That''s enough!¡± Kaz''s harsh command made them both wince visibly, though it achieved its likely intended effect as both stopped arguing. ¡°This situation is unprecedented and difficult enough without internal squabbling.¡± He fixed them with a stern look. ¡°We need to approach this calmly and logically.¡±This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work. From his position to the upper-left of the holo-projector, Xeno-Biologist Okens straightened his posture and signaled to Kaz for permission to speak. ¡°If I may¡­¡± Kaz¡¯s body language suggested approval, and Okens continued speaking. ¡°Scans revealed significant physical disparities between our species¡­¡± He summarized his medical findings. ¡°¡­ dense skeleton and muscle... far beyond our own. Grasp their potential for causing harm, they might not." After taking in the information, Snikers slowly turned towards Xeno-Psychiatrist Zelana, who likewise stood across the holo-projector, opposite Okens. He made his tone more polite than usual, speaking slowly and softly; after all, on this occasion, he was finally addressing someone civilized. ¡°My dear Doctor Zelana, given your distinguished expertise in comprehending exotic minds¡­ perhaps Okens''s perspective deserves consideration?¡± Zelana''s ears twitched back slightly, her tiny wing membranes drawing closer to her body as she considered the question. ¡°The biological evidence supports this possibility...¡± She paused, her features tightening with uncertainty. ¡°However, there are significant gaps in our cultural understanding. Furthermore, this hypothesis, even if proven true, fails to explain the unprovoked violence displayed by the specimen Ross during the simulator assessment.¡± Snikers refused to abandon this opportunity to support his position and pressed on despite Zelana''s counterargument. However, he wasn''t entirely honest; behind his outward confidence that all was well, he harbored private doubts, though he wouldn''t voice them and risk legitimizing the Lieutenant''s concerns. His worries mainly centered on the specimen Ross, but with that troublesome individual now removed from the equation, he felt less concerned. Moreover, Agozi''s tendency toward emotional responses suggested she was likely exaggerating the stadium incident. ¡°But surely¡­ you must concede that such a possibility warrants consideration?¡± Snikers asked, keen to support Okens''s theory. Zelana once again hesitated, her body language reflecting uncertainty about the question. ¡°If we consider it purely hypothetically... yes, though¡ª¡± ¡°Then why resort to primitive suspicions when a more enlightened view is available?¡± Snikers cut in before she could finish. ¡°As civilized beings¡­ we must extend to him, and indeed his entire species, the courtesy of our trust.¡± The debate raged on for several more minutes. Eventually, Snikers proposed maintaining Ross''s containment while pardoning Andreas''s actions as likely unintentional - a suggestion that immediately drew Agozi''s ire. ¡°Have you completely lost it?!¡± Agozi exclaimed, her voice dripping with disbelief. ¡°I saw everything firsthand! He knew exactly what he was doing and didn''t show a shred of remorse!¡± After several more minutes of heated discussion, Kaz raised his hand for silence. ¡°We''ll maintain Ross''s containment,¡± he said firmly. ¡°As for Andreas... we''ll continue to monitor him closely, but for now, we''ll accept the possibility that the injuries were unintentional.¡± His stern gaze fell on Agozi, silencing her protest before it began. ¡°However, at the first sign of truly deliberate violence, we''ll take appropriate action.¡± One of the Mevik security guards shifted his weight, his ears laying flat against his head. ¡°Captain, forgive my directness¡­¡± the guard said, sounding hesitant and drawing the room''s attention. ¡°As someone who helped sedate the confined specimen, I must agree with the Lieutenant.¡± The guard paused, his face shifting between concern and doubt. ¡°Even in its sedated state, the specimen showed unexpected strength and was hard to control. If the other specimen becomes hostile, I fear our usual protocols won''t be enough to control it.¡± The guard''s comments ignited fresh arguments, but Snikers''s position prevailed as usual, the latter dismissing Agozi''s protests with smug satisfaction. ***** What absolute morons! Andreas mused to himself inside his quarters before laughing aloud. After the incident at the stadium, Andreas had been confined to a pseudo-house arrest within his assigned living space. In hindsight, he¡¯d been needlessly reckless, but in his defense, it wasn¡¯t his fault that the Mevik supposedly had bones as brittle as toothpicks. Fortunately, that annoying situation had lasted only through the night; they¡¯d come to him early in the morning, informed him they ¡®understood¡¯ his condition, and accepted his explanation that the whole thing had been a freak accident. Once again a free man, Andreas enjoyed the same liberties as previously. Better yet, he was no longer burdened with dealing with that fool Ross, who had apparently embarrassed himself enough to land in his own form of confinement. A sadistic grin spread across his face as he left his quarters and turned down the corridor. His confident, determined stride drew the attention of some passing aliens, who glanced at him and briefly paused in their tracks. Andreas hadn''t requested a guide. He didn''t need one - the PDA they''d given him provided a map of the ship and clearance for his authorized areas. His destination was the hangar housing his shuttle. He had no means of re-activating it; even these dim-witted aliens wouldn''t leave that possibility open. But that wasn''t why he was going there. As he neared the hangar, he grinned again. He had no more time for this nonsense. The final act of this drama was about to begin. Book 1: Act 2: Chapter 4: Part II Xeno-Psychiatrist Zelana sat at her desk, focused on the glowing interface of her holographic computer. Her new desk was crafted from smooth, clean white plastic and shaped into an elegant U. Her chair, designed as a sleek white sphere, featured a comfortable brown cushion with an otherwise minimalist design. Her old workstation had been serviceable but ultimately subpar for her needs. Honorary-Lieutenant Snikers had been gracious enough to replace it at her request. The obligation to work at this hour was not present, yet sleep eluded her. Her initial concern regarding this dubious new species had been transformed into a borderline obsession. The necessity for comprehensive knowledge, acquired with utmost expediency, was felt acutely by her. Zelana''s narrow fingers played with the holographic controls as she reviewed the list of recently decrypted files, wondering where she should begin her review. Normally, Minboa''s advanced systems should''ve easily accessed the planet''s communication infrastructure. However, all channels and networks remained encrypted for unclear reasons. While not unusual for government or NGO entities, these encryptions, varying in complexity, covered everything from and to the planet. A soft chime from the holographic computer signaled that the ship''s system had finished breaking the encryption, causing Zelana''s ears to twitch slightly. Minboa''s decoding algorithms, superior even by Union standards, had finally bypassed the encrypted data after days of effort. Now, she could examine their findings for the first time. Yet, instead of excitement, she felt only dread and nervousness. Zelana''s eyes darted between different file options, trying to decide which folder to open first. Her gaze lingered on each option before eventually settling on one, which she opened with a hesitant tap. The folder contained several video clips in unknown formats. The encryption process had converted them for the ship''s computers. A bigger issue was the lack of organization; she had to work with a jumble of unorganized content. Any starting point is as good as another, Zelana mused. She opened one file, and the holographic display began playing the video. It showed something like a drama, with two characters standing in what seemed to be a living room, arguing heatedly. The argument involved aggressive gestures and shouting but wasn''t violent. At least not physically. It made Zelana uncomfortable. Enough of this, she thought irately as she closed the file without taking notes, deeming the subjects unstable and unrepresentative. She opened another video file, hoping it would provide a more meaningful and worthwhile insight into the species'' culture this time. The scene''s location was once again what appeared to be someone¡¯s living room, but this time, it depicted what seemed to be a graphic depiction of a sexual ritual involving multiple participants engaging in¡­ what exactly? It didn¡¯t resemble any coupling she had ever studied. Not that she had seen one in person, but as a Xeno-Psychiatrist, she was well-versed in the cultural dynamics of other species¡¯ mating patterns. Zelana¡¯s eyes widened in bewilderment and confusion, her mouth falling open slightly. She stared at the display, utterly baffled and not a little bit embarrassed by what she was seeing. After a moment, she snapped out of her daze and quickly closed the video, her ears awkwardly flattening against her head. Inspiration was not drawn by Zelana from the study''s poor commencement. ***** Andreas lifted open the shuttle''s cargo door and entered inside, pausing briefly to glance around and confirm that nobody was watching him. Once certain he was alone, he stepped into the cargo compartment. His eyes scanned the interior, checking that all the cargo was still present. A smug grin spread across his face when he saw everything was untouched. The aliens were too polite for their own good; if Andreas had been taken prisoner inside a Terran or rebel vessel, his shuttle would have been ransacked by now, with every nook and cranny being inspected in search of anything even remotely suspicious. Yet everything appeared to have been left completely untouched Andreas approached some of the supply crates, their greenish metal-plastic exteriors gleaming dully in the dim light. He punched a code into the keypad on the nearest crate, his fingers moving swiftly over the buttons. With a soft click, the locks disengaged. Andreas lifted the lid, revealing an arsenal of military-grade firearms and gear packed neatly inside. Better judgment had been exercised by Andreas, who knew not to travel through hostile space without serious firepower. An alien kidnapping hadn''t exactly been anticipated by him at the time, but that little detail was irrelevant. And it was an impressive arsenal as well; light body armor, some high-end assault rifles with high-capacity magazines and military grade ammo, some frags, and even a personal shield. It''s almost unfair how outmatched these alien simpletons are going to be, he mused sadistically with a smirk on his face. ***** A soft peeping sound emanated from the computer, signaling the completion of the sorting algorithm. Zelana''s ears perked up at the noise. She set down her teacup with a soft clink and swiveled in her chair, redirecting her focus to the holographic display. Her fingers tapped at the controls, bringing up the newly organized file structure. Her initial inquiries'' mediocre start revealed the folly of random file review, so she''d created a simple organizing program. Though not a professional programmer, she''d used an AI assistant to streamline the process. Any categorization was better than none, with improvements possible later.Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. Zelana''s eyes quickly scanned the newly created categories. Many held familiar names: folders for discussion forums, news broadcasts, and entertainment content. However, she couldn''t recognize many others at a glance. She hesitated for a moment, considering which to select. After a brief internal debate, she tapped on a folder titled ¡°Where''s My Couch?¡± and opened one of the video files. The content resembled what she''d seen before: two characters, male and female based on size and sexual dimorphism, arguing in what looked like a living room. Their physical gestures were more exaggerated this time, with the male knocking over nearby furniture in anger. The translator should''ve interpreted their speech, but the dialog was too fast and frantic to make sense of. If such aggressive exchanges are commonplace in their society, it raises serious concerns about their psychological stability, Zelana thought to herself, feeling not a little bit uneasy. Merely watching the heated argument unfold on the holo-screen felt uncomfortable. She couldn''t imagine tolerating such a scene in person for long. Suddenly, in the most inexplicable event she''d witnessed so far, the male Terran unexpectedly slapped the female across the face. Zelana flinched, her ears flattening against her head as she recoiled from the screen. Shocked by the sudden violence, she needed a moment to regain clarity and process what she''d witnessed. Her unsteady fingers fumbled for the playback controls, rewinding the clip to the exact moment of the slap. Zelana replayed the scene, her eyes wide and unblinking, brow furrowed in stunned disconcert as she searched for any context she might have missed to explain the appalling act. ***** Andreas performed a confident mag-slap, the crisp sound echoing in the shuttle¡¯s cargo department. With equal self-assurance, he racked the slide, the mechanism sliding smoothly into place. He pulled the cigarette from his mouth, flicking it away with a casual motion. There was no way he''d lose, even while hopelessly outnumbered. His TAR-34 assault carbine utilized plasma-tipped hyperion rounds from a triple-stacked magazine holding over seventy-two rounds, and his combat vest carried four frag grenades. His real ace, however, was the personal energy shield, a small, capsule-shaped device worn on his belt that rendered their laughable hunting weapons useless. Or so he hoped; Andreas recalled inspecting their weapons during Kaz''s tour. Though basic, the slugs looked quite powerful. Their single-shot design mitigated his concerns, however. Only rapid-firing weapons with large rounds, or a few hits from hyperion rounds like his own, could likely break the shield. From what he gathered, the aliens had neither. His plan was straightforward: eliminate the security crew, control the bridge, and force them to the nearest rebel holdout. It didn''t matter if they had the coordinates; he''d downloaded them to his PDA. Since coordinates were just math, he assumed their computers would understand them. Once at the rebels'', he''d murder the crew and auction their ship to the highest bidder, or at least trade it for his freedom. Andreas was just about to leave the shuttle when he paused, a thought crossing his mind. He slowly turned around, his eyes drawn back to the cargo area. With measured steps, he returned to where the secret shipment was stored, coming to a stop in front of the mysterious container. The contents of the secret cargo were unknown to Andreas, as he had never been told what was inside. Clear warnings about the consequences of prying had been given to him by the general. He stood motionless, staring at the large, nondescript cargo container. His eyes traced its utilitarian lines, searching for any clue to its contents. After a moment of internal debate, weighing curiosity against caution, Andreas made his decision. ¡°Rules be damned. Let''s see what we''ve got here,¡± he said to himself out loud as he stepped towards the cargo, his hand reaching out to investigate its contents. ***** Contrary to her expectations, extracting useful material from the decrypted files was painfully difficult. She had added another layer of sorting algorithms to the existing code in the hope of uncovering something worthwhile within the mountains of data. Zelana rose from her ball chair, her movements graceful despite her weariness. She approached a nearby serving station in her office. With practiced motions, she prepared a cup of tea, carefully adding the steaming liquid to her cup. Just as she was about to take a small sip, her holo-computer emitted a sharp, insistent beeping. Zelana''s ears perked up, her eyes widening slightly in surprise and worry. She hurried back to her desk, setting the cup aside with a soft clink. Leaning forward, she peered at the warning message flashing on the screen, her brow furrowing as she read. ================================ SYSTEM ALERT: CATEGORIZATION FAILURE ERROR CODE: 0xA93E-UNKNOWN-PATTERN Data exhibits aberrant structures and unsettling patterns, suggesting intent or phenomena outside system comprehension. ================================ The sorting algorithms had built-in protections against malicious content, but according to the warning message, it couldn''t quite deduce what it was looking at. The supposedly troublesome content was inside a single folder. Zelana glanced at the file path. ROOT > MIL_ARCHIVE > BLACKFILE_DB > RESTRICTED_ARCHIVE_47-B: INCIDENT RECORDS ¨C CLASSIFIED Zelana wasn''t sure what she''d found, but it''d piqued her curiosity. She sipped her tea before tapping the folder icon to open it. At the center of Zelana''s desk, a ball-shaped holo-projector activated, instantly projecting a series of flat images in a multi-dimensional array. The holographic display followed the desk''s U-shape, arranging the images into a three-by-three grid. The displayed images were utterly horrific, surrounding her with scenes of gruesome death. Mutilated bodies, many rendered unrecognizable by their injuries, were shown lying individually like discarded meat, stacked in large piles, or thrown into shallow trenches and pits. Each image presented a different variation of the gruesome scene. This alone was horrific, yet even more disturbing were the images showing uniformed Terrans holding what appeared to be slugthrowers, clearly implying their responsibility for the carnage. The images didn''t depict fighting, only extermination. The unfortunate victims had been slaughtered by those wielding the killing instruments. Zelana froze, unable to react immediately. But as her mind registered the gruesome contents, hysteria took hold. Her hand jerked, spilling hot tea across her lap. She barely noticed the burning pain, her horrified eyes locked on the horrific images. For several agonizing moments, she couldn¡¯t tear her gaze away. As the shock began to subside, she started to hyperventilate, dizziness washing over her. Any attempt to regain control was hopeless. She lurched to her feet, stumbling back from her desk. Her stomach churned as the full impact of what she¡¯d seen hit her again. Unable to hold back, she doubled over and retched. The room spun, waves of nausea and shock overwhelming her. Her legs buckled, and she collapsed to the floor in a faint, the horrors seared into her mind. Book 1: Act 2: Chapter 4: Part III/Act 2 Final Andreas stared in awe at the secret cargo''s contents, his eyes widening and jaw dropping slightly, as if not quite believing what he was seeing. Inside a sleek metal containment unit, was a massive biomechanical brain, part cybernetic and part organic. It had the typical shape of a human brain but was much larger, standing at least seven feet tall. The brain pulsed subtly, like a distant heartbeat, emanating a faint thrumming sound that could only be heard when listened to closely. Andreas moved closer to the brain, but hesitantly and carefully. When he drew near, he cautiously released his right hand from his rifle''s handguard and reached out towards the pulsing organ, seemingly mesmerized. Just before his fingers could make contact, the brain reacted violently. It pulsed more aggressively, the thrumming growing louder. Andreas jerked back, startled. He didn¡¯t ask questions of those who disliked them, especially when doing so risked his survival. Yet now, even his pragmatic mind couldn¡¯t ignore the nagging curiosity. What the hell was this thing? A bioweapon of mass destruction? Some twisted experiment? Or perhaps something beyond his comprehension entirely? And why had the general deemed it necessary to pay him for smuggling it into rebel territory? Whatever its nature or purpose, an unfamiliar unease settled over him as he regarded the grotesque thing. Andreas stood still for a moment, considering his next move. But a moment later, his expression sharpened, his posture straightening as he refocused. A mystery for another time. I''ve got a ship to commandeer. He turned around and strode towards the shuttle exit. ***** Zelana''s eyes fluttered open as she regained consciousness. She found herself lying on the floor of her office in a puddle of her own vomit. Clumsily, she pushed herself up. Her head throbbed and her vision swam as she tried to orient herself. Then the horrific images came flooding back. Her stomach lurched again. She scrambled for her communicator with shaking hands, frantically trying to contact Kaz. To her dismay, there was no answer. Panic gripped her. She began pacing anxiously, her small hands shaking as she tried to clear her head and determine a course of action. The horrific discovery warranted Kaz''s immediate attention, yet his communicator remained unresponsive. The option of delegating message delivery was too risky; panic could be spread throughout the ship if rumors leaked. Furthermore, no guarantee could be given that the information would be delivered promptly. The necessity of Kaz''s immediate awareness was paramount. Seeing no alternative, Zelana rushed out of her office, her small feet pattering rapidly as she hurried towards Kaz''s quarters. ***** Kaz sat stiffly in his accent chair while Agozi knelt before him, her head between his legs. Despite their intimate position, Kaz maintained a stern, almost detached expression. Agozi glanced up at him, her eyes narrowing in frustration. Her whiskers twitched in annoyance and her ears lay flat against her head. ¡°I swear, sometimes I think I''m servicing a statute¡­¡± The males kept their libido going even after mating season ended, unlike the females. Agozi could''ve easily fixed this issue with some oral attention if Kaz would just ditch his captain persona for a bit. ¡°I regret that my professional conduct fails to meet your expectations for intimate encounters,¡± Kaz replied, his tone as formal and stilted as if he were delivering a report on ship operations. Agozi oscillated between laughter and tears. Before she could decide, the door whooshed open sideways and Zelana burst into the room, her eyes wild. ¡°Captain, I must urgently bring to your attention a matter of¡ª¡± She froze mid-sentence and Kaz and Agozi likewise stared back, their expressions a mix of surprise and irritation. An uncomfortable silence followed. ¡°Not now, Doctor. I have pressing matters that require my immediate attention,¡± Kaz said eventually, his professional demeanor barely fazed by the situation''s absurdity. ¡°Captain, with all due respect, this hardly qualifies as a pressing¡ª¡± Zelana cut herself off, presumably realizing the absurdity of what she was about to say given the situation. She fumbled with her datapad, fingers trembling as she searched for something. Finding it, she stepped closer to the pair. ¡°T-This!¡± she said, her voice quavering. ¡°I-I implore you to examine this data immediately! It''s of the utmost urgency!¡± Kaz and Agozi exchanged uncertain glances, Agozi peering up from her position on the floor while Kaz looked down at her. ***** Andreas strode confidently through the ship corridor, assault rifle in hand. He checked the magazine, racked the slide, and adjusted various components, ensuring everything was in working order. As a final measure, he activated his personal shield. Aliens he passed recoiled in shock, but Andreas paid them no mind, his stern gaze fixed straight ahead. He didn¡¯t know the security troops'' exact location, but he had devised a plan to lure them in. He would create chaos in the recreational sector to draw their attention, allowing him to eliminate them upon arrival. Their superior numbers would be irrelevant against his advanced weaponry and shield, with the latter being his key advantage. Before long, he emerged from the corridor into the bustling recreational facility. The vast sector stretched out before him, filled with off-duty aliens engaged in leisure activities and crew members milling about, visiting vendors, and enjoying meals. A sadistic grin spread across his face as he surveyed the unsuspecting crowd. One of the Mevik workers, a male with brown fur and dressed in a blue engineer''s suit, spotted Andreas and marched over, looking ready for an argument. ¡°Hold it right there!¡± he snarled, fur bristling and ears flat. ¡°You''re way out of bounds with that equipment! This is a rec area, not an armory! Explain yourself before I¡ª¡± The Mevik''s words died in his throat as Andreas slowly raised the rifle barrel towards his face. Andreas let out a low, menacing chuckle. ¡°I appreciate your concern, but I''m afraid there''s been a shift in management. I''m instituting some policy changes.¡± A malevolent smirk twisted his features. ¡°Starting now.¡± ***** Zelana, Kaz, and Agozi stood inside Zelana''s office, gathered around her desk. Holographic images projected from Zelana''s work computer hovered in the air, displaying the gruesome material. Kaz stood at the front, his expression stern and focused as he browsed through the images one by one, never betraying any emotion. Agozi stood nearby, her face a mask of deep concern and disgust. Zelana hung back, visibly uncomfortable and averting her eyes from the display, waiting anxiously for Kaz to finish his examination. ¡°This review is concluded,¡± Kaz said tersely. ¡°Deactivate the projection, computer.¡± The holographic grid flickered and vanished as Zelana''s desk computer shut off the projection. An oppressive silence fell over the room, thick with unspoken dread. They exchanged worried glances, though Zelana actively avoided making eye contact with either of them. ¡°These images are disturbing, but we must maintain our objectivity and seek a logical explanation,¡± Kaz said, breaking the silence. Agozi''s posture stiffened, her eyes flashing with anger. ¡°Oh, I think the explanation is staring us right in the face¡­¡± she said, her voice dripping with barely contained rage. ¡°These unhinged alien simians are insane and dangerous.¡± ¡°The gravity of the situation is not lost on me,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°But these images require proper context. I''d prefer to confront Andreas about them before forming snap judgments.¡± Agozi''s fur bristled, and her voice rose. ¡°You can''t be serious!¡± she protested sharply. ¡°That maniac''s been nothing but trouble since he got here¡ªboth him and that tagalong of his! What could they possibly say to explain away this nightmare?¡± she said, gesturing at the desk where the images had been projected moments earlier. Her voice rose to a near-hysterical pitch as she used a Mevik hand gesture to convey deep concern and ridicule. ¡°Face reality, Kaz. We''ve stumbled onto... something...¡± She paused, her eyes darting around as if searching for the right words to describe the unspeakable. ¡°Something monstrous... that we''re not equipped to handle. We need to get out!¡± ¡°I must align myself with Lieutenant Agozi''s assessment,¡± Zelana said, her voice shaky. She wrung her hands, clearly distressed by even thinking about the subject. ¡°These horrific acts are beyond the pale of any rational explanation. I strongly recommend we cease all operations at once.¡± Before they could debate further, Kaz''s communicator buzzed. He quickly retrieved it. ¡°Captain Kaz speaking.¡± A frantic voice crackled through the speaker, punctuated by the sounds of gunfire, explosions, and terrified screams: ¡°Captain, we''re under attack! One of the specimens is rampaging through the recreational sector! We''ve suffered heavy losses, including civilian casualties! It''s bloody slaughter down here!¡± The communicator''s volume was high enough to overhear and Zelana promptly crumpled to the floor in a dead faint. Though less extreme in their reaction, both herself and Kaz also responded with visible shock. Agozi''s eyes widened in horror, and even Kaz''s stoic mask cracked. Their gazes locked, the horror in their faces feeding off one another. ***** Several slugs slammed into Andreas in quick succession, only to disintegrate against his energy shield. ¡°Bloody hell!¡± he cursed. The large slugs didn''t pierce his shields but still caused bruising. It wasn''t harmful, but it hurt. Standing defiantly in the center of the food plaza, his shields rendered him practically invincible amidst the chaos.This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings. Andreas had transformed the area into a violent tableau of death more befitting the aftermath of a terrorist attack or natural disaster. Nearby vendors'' stalls blazed, shops had shuttered, and corpses littered the streets like discarded insects. Andreas had even opted to off many of his targets via melee or knifing to conserve ammo. The survivors had swiftly fled or barricaded themselves inside the remaining intact rooms and vendor booths, desperately hoping Andreas wouldn''t reach them. About a dozen feet away, a squad of five Mevik huddled behind makeshift cover cobbled together from overturned tables and food stalls. Two of their number already lay dead, and a third clutched a bleeding wound. As Andreas paused to reload, one brave Mevik popped out from behind a barricade and fired his slugthrower. The slug impacted Andreas'' face, instantly vaporizing against the shield. However, a few superheated fragments peppered his skin, eliciting a brief scream of pain. Andreas'' head snapped toward the offending Mevik, his face contorted with rage as he finished reloading. He swiftly aimed his assault rifle at the alien''s position. ¡°A valiant attempt, but I''m afraid it''s time to bid you a permanent farewell!¡± Andreas squeezed the trigger, unleashing a torrent of full-auto fire. The entire magazine emptied into the Mevik''s cover, utterly obliterating it as a hail of hyperion rounds tore through the barricade and the Mevik behind it, leaving nothing but smoldering wreckage and bloody carcasses. The poor Mevik''s desperate attempts at makeshift cover proved futile; plasma-tipped ammo could transform anything unshielded into burned cheese within seconds. In the end, little remained but a smoldering heap of melted plastic, scorched metal, and gory giblets. This had been quite the poor use of ammunition, but Andreas''s unexpected injury, minor as it was, had made him momentarily lose his composure. ¡°What a waste of ammunition¡­¡± Andreas sneered at the smoking carnage that he''d created. He turned sharply on his heel, his face twisted in a bitter scowl. As Andreas walked down the plaza, a sudden blur of motion caught his eye; a Mevik security guard burst from behind an overturned food cart. He barely had time to register the attack before the Mevik was upon him, stabbing viciously. Though dazed, Andreas''s reflexes saved him from a fatal blow; the blade sliced across his arm, drawing blood but missing anything vital. Snarling in pain and rage, Andreas seized the attacker by the wrist, and with a savage twist, he shattered the alien''s fragile bones. The Mevik crumpled to the ground, howling in agony. Andreas wasted no time. He brought his boot down hard on its throat, and a sickening crunch signaled the end of its life. Andreas stared at the lifeless body for a moment. The sense of invulnerability granted by the shield and the corresponding power high had made Andreas briefly forget that it offered no protection against stabbing attacks. As a matter of fact, the security force had proven a bigger pain than he''d anticipated, albeit only by a limited order of magnitude. ¡°Stand down immediately!¡± a voice barked out. Andreas turned around swiftly. Another squad had just arrived through a nearby entry point. Five Mevik formed a firing line, rifles aimed squarely at him. Their squad leader stood at the center, his voice wavering slightly despite his attempt at intimidation. ¡°Comply immediately or face the consequences!¡± Andreas stared at the squad with a blank expression for a moment before his lips curled into a mocking grin, which prompted the Mevik to shift uneasily. ¡°Oh dear, I do apologize for the mess,¡± Andreas said, his tone dripping with false sincerity. ¡°Tell you what, I''ll be a good lad and surrender. See? I''m letting go of my gun now.¡± His rifle clattered to the floor at Andreas''s feet. ¡°Down on the ground and don''t move a muscle!¡± The squad advanced cautiously, weapons still trained on Andreas. Andreas raised a hand, halting their approach. ¡°Hold that thought. One last detail requires my attention.¡± The squad froze, watching Andreas''s every move with tense suspicion. In one fluid motion, Andreas yanked a grenade from his vest and triggered it. He then fixed the Mevik with a taunting smirk. ¡°A small parting gift, gentlemen. Catch!¡± The grenade arced through the air, landing with a soft thud near the squad leader''s feet. It bounced once, twice, rolling to a stop at the center of the group. For a heartbeat, the Mevik stared at it in confusion. Then it exploded. The blast tore through the squad, shredding flesh and shattering bone. The squad leader simply ceased to exist, vaporized in an instant. His comrades fared little better, their bodies ripped apart by shrapnel or flung like ragdolls by the concussive force. Andreas stood untouched, his shield flickering as it absorbed the blast. ¡°Oh my my, looks like somebody''s career has just concluded rather explosively.¡± ***** Honorary-Lieutenant Snikers sat in his private office, focused intently on his work. His fingers moved swiftly across the holographic interface of his personal computer as he finalized a set of documents, mostly reports for the council. His brow furrowed in concentration, the usual smugness in his expression replaced by a rare look of genuine focus. Suddenly, a blaring alarm shattered the silence, causing Snikers to nearly jump out of his fur. ¡°Warning! Warning! Level zero emergency! All non-security personnel must seek shelter immediately!¡± Snikers looked around the room, his eyes wide with confusion and anxiety. He hesitated for a moment, unsure how to react. Finally, he closed his work documents and rose from his chair. With quick, nervous steps, he approached one of the room''s ornate walls. Snikers pressed his palm against a seemingly ordinary section of the wall. A soft beep sounded, and a hidden panel slid open, revealing a state-of-the-art cryo-pod. Snikers lacked comprehensive knowledge of the ongoing situation, but he refused to expose himself to unnecessary risk. His opulent office, far more than a mere display of wealth, stood prepared for such unforeseen emergencies - a contingency his brilliant mind had anticipated, if not expected to utilize. The cryo-pod would preserve him in stasis, ensuring his safety and concealment until the crisis passed. Upon his emergence, Kaz would be required to provide a thorough accounting of these lamentable events. ***** ¡°Where is Andreas now?¡± Kaz asked in a barking tone, leaning over the shoulder of a shaken Prol staffer operating the ship''s camera system. ¡°R-Recreational sector. Already in lockdown.¡± The Prol''s digits manipulated the controls, bringing up multiple camera feeds. ¡°Any survivors?¡± ¡°Scanners detect some vital signs. Most survivors have already departed sector. Those still left¡­ mostly dead.¡± Kaz''s eyes darted between screens, taking in the carnage Andreas had left in his wake. One monitor showed live footage of him stalking through the facility, while others replayed scenes of earlier destruction. Kaz''s expression hardened, a muscle in his jaw twitching. ¡°Give me control of the speaker system. I need to address this maniac directly.¡± ***** What''s taking you so bloody long? Andreas mused irately. He knew they would implement some type of lockdown procedure once the killing began and that being the cowards they were, they would try to negotiate with him when it became clear they couldn¡¯t subdue him by force. Yet, they were taking longer than he had the patience for. At this point, they ought to have reached out¡­ he mused again while standing still, weapon at the ready. His fingers drummed impatiently against the rifle''s stock, eyes scanning for any sign of movement. A moment after making the observation, the sector speaker system activated. ¡°This is Captain Kaz¡­ can you hear me?¡± the voice crackled through the speakers. Andreas''s face split into a smug grin as he looked up towards the ceiling. ¡°Well, well! It''s about bloody time you called! I was starting to think you''d lost interest in my little soiree.¡± The speaker fell silent for a moment before Kaz''s terse reply came through. ¡°No.¡± He paused momentarily. ¡°Whatever this is, it''s imperative that we obtain a peaceful resolution to it.¡± ¡°How noble to seek peace now that your ability to fight back has been eliminated,¡± Andreas taunted. A cold chuckle escaped his lips, his eyes gleaming with cruel amusement. There was a long pause, until finally, Kaz''s voice returned. ¡°What do you want from us?¡± Andreas executed a sweeping gesture with his hands, as if to claim everything in sight. ¡°Everything, my dear lad," he replied quickly, smug as ever. ¡°Everything. I want everything. Your ship, namely.¡± There was another pause before Kaz replied. ¡°You''ll need to elaborate,¡± Kaz replied eventually. ¡°What possible use could you have for a Union exploration vessel?¡± ¡°Let''s just say I have an urgent appointment elsewhere, and your ship is my ticket,¡± Andreas replied matter-of-factly. ¡°Any competent spacecraft has autopilot functionality. I expect yours is no different, alien or not. As for the ''why'' - that''s none of your concern.¡± Suddenly, a new voice cut in, female and seething with fury. ¡°Like heck it doesn''t concern us!¡± it barked over the speaker system ¡°There''s no way we''re giving up this ship to a murderous lunatic like you, no matter your reasons or who you claim to be!¡± Andreas''s eyebrows shot up in momentary surprise at the interruption before his expression settled back into one of amusement. ¡°Your lovely Lieutenant, I take it?¡± His demeanor quickly shifted, eyes narrowing dangerously as his voice turned cold and sharp. ¡°I''d love to chat, but I''m afraid I just don''t have the time. So here''s how this is going to work¡­ ¡°You''re going to plot a course to coordinates of my choosing and grant me unrestricted access to all ship systems. If you refuse, I''ll slaughter every last survivor hiding in this sector. He paused, allowing his words to sink in, then his voice shifted to a tone dripping with false sweetness. ¡°As a gesture of goodwill, I''ll then allow your crew to abandon ship via escape pods before my departure. ¡°I presume your vessel is equipped with such basic safety measures. You''ll likely encounter Terran patrols eventually. Beyond that point, your fate is of no consequence to me.¡± ***** The bridge fell into a deathly silence following Andreas''s ultimatum. Kaz and Agozi exchanged deeply concerned glances, their postures rigid with tension. After a moment, Kaz''s voice crackled over the speaker. ¡°We¡¯ll require a moment to consider your offer.¡± Andreas''s demeanor shifted, his face contorting with irritation and impatience. ¡°This isn''t a negotiation,¡± he snapped, his voice dripping with menace. ¡°You''d better give me what I want¡­ unless you want more blood spattering the walls of this facility.¡± Startled by the threat, Kaz quickly switched off the microphone and turned to Agozi, but she spoke first. ¡°What are we supposed to do?¡± Agozi asked, her fur bristling anxiously. ¡°We can''t just hand over the ship to him!¡± Her lips curled, revealing a hint of her teeth. ¡°Especially not to him.¡± ¡°I concur,¡± Kaz replied. ¡°But this situation is extremely difficult. We need to buy more time.¡± They continued talking for another minute, desperately trying to come up with a solution. Suddenly, Agozi''s eyes widened in horror as her nose and whiskers twitched frantically, and she pointed at the security feed. Kaz''s gaze locked onto the screen, and he, too, reacted with visible shock. While they had been busy debating their options, Andreas had taken a hostage¡ªa young Mevik teen. The human held the frightened catten at gunpoint, his finger poised over the trigger. Agozi recoiled, her whiskers quivering with shock and disgust. ¡°How could he even...? A catten like that? No!¡± On the screen, Andreas motioned impatiently with his gun, clearly demanding they re-enable communication. Kaz''s hand hovered over the controls for a moment before he reluctantly switched the microphone back on. Andreas''s voice filled the bridge, seething with irritation. ¡°I don''t like being ignored, and I''m sick of waiting. This is your last chance to do as you''re told, or I''ll blow this brat''s head off. Agree to my terms. Now.¡± The young catten, despite not understanding Andreas''s words, looked utterly terrified. ¡°What''s happening?!¡± it sobbed, its nose leaking mucus and trembling hectically. ¡°Please, make it stop! Please!¡± Kaz and Agozi shared one final, defeated glance. There was no choice left. Kaz''s voice was heavy as he responded. ¡°We agree to your terms. Just don''t harm the little one.¡± ***** The sea of escape pods drifted through the void of space, glinting occasionally in the starlight, floating serenely against the backdrop of Terran space stations. It was anyone''s guess what would happen now. The ship was gone, commandeered by the Terran specimen Andreas and taken to places unknown, to be used for who knew what purpose. Dozens of crew members lay dead or were critically injured following the monster''s rampage. And now, they floated in space, where no doubt they''d soon be discovered by the rest of his kin, their escape pods offering no means of avoiding detection. At the very least, they had avoided further loss of life, and, interestingly, Andreas had kept his promise to let everyone leave. The key word, however, was ''let''; there had been no time to verify if everyone had actually made it off the ship in time. Put in the bluntest of terms: The mission had gone to scat. Bonus Chapter 2: Open Letter to the Readers & New Art Hi! It''s me, Master of Disillusioned, the author of this series. Now that Act 2 has concluded, I''d like to use this opportunity to write an open letter to my readers & make several announcements. Oh, and there''s new art as well! An Open Letter to the Readers State of my Health It''s now been some 19 months since I uploaded the first chapter of Cries of the Disillusioned to Royal Road and over 4 years since I wrote the first draft! In that time, I''ve not only undergone growth as an author but also experienced dramatic life changes. If you recall, there was a period starting roughly a year and a half ago during which I suffered from severe health problems, which I frequently mentioned in my author comments. Initially, the issue was unclear. It was first believed to be rib-related, then possibly a heart condition. Finally, it was discovered to be a combination of severe panic & anxiety disorders, exacerbated by a chronically unhealthy lifestyle. I was literally getting 5 hours of sleep on top of having sleep apnea (only recently diagnosed), coupled with stress & alcohol abuse. The situation deteriorated to the point where I landed in the ER twice. Since then, things have improved immensely. I was diagnosed with anxiety and put on an SSRI treatment. The side-effects were brutal but became less severe over time. I also managed to stay sober for over a year (sadly, I''ve had setbacks in recent months, but I''m jumping back on the sobriety train. I''m also massively cutting back on salt & sugar). Things have now stabilized enough that I feel comfortable slowly tapering off the medication. So far, I haven''t felt the need to increase the dose again, despite having lowered it by two-thirds. Sleeping habits have also massively improved. Put simply, things have improved dramatically for the better, albeit fixing my alcoholism still requires some work. Addressing Criticism About the Ross Character I feel it''s impossible not to talk about this, considering he seems to be the single largest reason why a segment of readers didn''t enjoy my story. In fact, the most common complaint I''ve noticed in negative reviews so far revolves around him. Put simply, many readers hate, and I mean hate, this character. However, while readers are entitled to their opinions, I believe many Ross haters fundamentally misunderstand his role in the story and may have had false or incorrect expectations regarding this character. Common anti-Ross complaints include: And¡­ well, those are pretty much the main reasons, to be honest. And all of those things are true. Ross is, without a doubt, a horrible, irredeemable piece of trash with the IQ of a potato. But this isn''t an oversight; he¡¯s intentionally written this way. This is his character. His role in the story would not work if he were written differently. Keep in mind, Ross is not the protagonist. It would be understandable for readers to object if an unlikable person like him were the main character, but Ross is nothing of the sort. He''s a side character with a relatively minor role. And yet, it''s as if he''s single-handedly responsible for tanking the ratings from Act 2 onward (the story had a 4.2+ rating for the longest time). I suspect part of the issue may stem from the fact that Ross is the first human character introduced in the series. This might have left some readers with the false impression that he was intended to be the main human protagonist, someone the audience should root for. From that perspective, I can understand why some might have been upset due to the misunderstanding. To provide more context, I''ll explain exactly why Ross''s character exists and why he was written the way he was. First, let''s start with the very first line from the story synopsis: ¡°Cries of the Disillusioned is a nihilistic space opera that explores how humanity''s arrival on the galactic scene reshapes the galaxy, mostly for the worse, over a period of 100+ years.¡± Now, let¡¯s look at the tags: ¡°Original, ONGOING, Space Opera, Grimdark, Psychological, Multiple Lead Characters, Sci-fi, Action, Tragedy, Dystopia, Female Lead, First Contact, Non-Human Lead, Strong Lead.¡± So what we have here is a fictional setting that takes place in a tragic, grimdark dystopia where humanity ruins life for everyone in the galaxy. The decision to make Ross¡ªthe horrible piece of trash that he is, the first human introduced in the setting was extremely intentional. By observing his behavior, we get a glimpse into the present state of human society and culture, hinting that it''s not in a great place. Ross is the first ¡®red flag¡¯ indicating humanity¡¯s regression into backwards barbarism.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road. But many readers missed the point entirely. They expected, or simply wanted, a generic human hero: someone relatable, smart, understanding, courageous, and so on. Instead, they got a sociopath idiot and a ruthless gangster who guns down children. While this fits the setting perfectly, it¡¯s also a far cry from what that segment of readers probably wanted. Put simply, my point is basically this: You are not reading Star Trek or Star Wars. You¡¯re reading Cries of the Disillusioned. Updated Prose for Act 1 Though I worked hard on my early chapters (I literally spent several years rewriting the draft before I felt comfortable uploading anything), my current level of experience has increased to the point where I feel the early content no longer matches the quality of the later chapters. This is particularly noticeable in areas like the descriptions of character actions and expressions. To illustrate, consider this excerpt from an older chapter: The movement of Kaz¡¯s whiskers and his body language indicated that he was experiencing embarrassment, a reaction that was understandable given the inappropriateness of his comment. Now compare that with this from a more recent one: ¡°Suddenly, in the most inexplicable event she''d witnessed so far, the male Terran unexpectedly slapped the female across the face. Zelana flinched, her ears flattening against her head as she recoiled from the screen. Shocked by the sudden violence, she needed a moment to regain clarity and process what she''d witnessed. Her unsteady fingers fumbled for the playback controls, rewinding the clip to the exact moment of the slap. Zelana replayed the scene, her eyes wide and unblinking, brow furrowed in stunned disconcert as she searched for any context she might have missed to explain the appalling act.¡± You can see that in the more recent chapter, the character¡¯s behavior and emotions are described much more vividly. I strongly believe that maintaining consistency in quality is important. For that reason, before I begin proper work on Act 3, I would prefer to update certain sections of Act 1 to ensure its quality aligns with Act 2. This would also double as an opportunity to fix various other oversights (e.g. inconsistent capitalization of certain words, spelling errors, or incorrect word usage that slipped under the radar the first time). These updates would not alter the story content; they merely enhance the existing descriptions to ensure new readers have the best possible first impression while improving the overall quality. The Wiki The original goal was to release the wiki sometime during Act 2, but this never really materialized. The current goal is to simply continue working on it and then release it at the same time Act 3 debuts its first chapter. I should note that the wiki is functionally complete already; I just need to fill it out with more content. New Story Format & Illustrative Art The way the series handles its art and illustrations has evolved over time, and I¡¯ve now settled on a consistent format. Each book in the series will now include at least five images, along with renderings of key characters: You might be wondering what this means for the existing art in Book 1. Simply put, I¡¯m replacing it. The original images (technically round two, if you recall the last bonus chapter) were inconsistent in quality anyway. Fortunately, since each book now requires only a handful of illustrations, I can afford to invest more per image, resulting in higher-quality artwork. Plus, given how long it takes to write each book, the cost of commissioning new art isn¡¯t a major concern. The replacement images for Acts 1 and 2 are already complete (technically, Act 2 already had one, but I wanted consistent quality), and the one for Act 3 is currently in production. Additionally, Acts now have actual titles. Act 1 and Act 2 of Book 1 have been retroactively named as follows: Book 1: Act 1 (Released) Misguided Promises Book 1: Act 2 (Released) Dangerous Games Book 1: Act 3 (Coming Soon) Price of Discovery To save you the trouble of flicking back, I¡¯ll be posting the new art below, along with the legacy art for those curious to see how it originally looked (albeit at a lower resolution for easier viewing). Note that when the new art goes live, it will include the Act headers and titles, whereas the versions below do not, as the artist has not added them yet. New Image for Act 1: Title: Misguided Promises New Image for Act 2: Title: Dangerous Games Legacy Images Chapter 1 Legacy Image Chapter 2 Legacy Image Chapter 3 Legacy Image Chapter 4 Legacy Image Chapter 5 Legacy Image Chapter 6 Legacy Image Legacy Act 2 Header