Darkest Voyage: Prossia Book 4: Prossia : A Coming of Age Space Opera, #4

By Raphyel M. Jordan

"Where Were You When You Had To Give Up?"

Prossia’s prolonged war for peace has dwindled the hopes of seeing a positive outcome to the galactic conflict. As this realization bears itself on the military forces, Prossia General Vuro must confront a possible option no one else may be willing to accept. Perhaps there will never be an end unless one of the opposing forces finally accepts the terms of the other.

This gut-wrenching conclusion to the powerful coming of age space opera may present a victor, though it may very well be the one not desired, but necessary.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Raphyel Jordan
• Release date: Dec 31, 2016
• ISBN: 9781540117342

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Darkest Voyage

Raphyel M. Jordan

Copyright © 2016 by Raphyel M. Jordan

Artwork Copyright © 2016 by Raphyel M. Jordan

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This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you're reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to your original source and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage or retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, or locales is entirely coincidental.

This book was created in the United States of America.

Don’t Miss Out On Jordan’s Current & Future Novels

Evaluations of the Tribe – Prossia Book 0 - the exciting prequel to Prossia

Prossia – Book 1 - the follow up to Evaluations of the Tribe

Prossia Revolution – Prossia Book 2- the exciting sequel to Prossia

Solution Uprising – Prossia Book 3 - the follow up to Prossia Revolution

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We are what we repeatedly do. Greatness, then, is not an act, but a habit. – Aristotle

Previously On Prossia

When the war-empowered Prossia Faction was shaken to the core after they were attacked by a secret organization known as the Prossia Solution—led by former Wethan Governor Vilua—it resulted in devastating losses to their forces along with the desecration of the planet, Gooliun. The Solution’s strike was made effective not only by their powerful glassers—massive war ships capable of bombarding worlds from orbit—however, but due to their cunning patience. Prossia was stunned to learn their new foe had been planting moles within their ranks, merley waiting for the opportune moment to reveal themselves. Now, without a homeworld for the Goolian people to call their own, the recently-promoted Prossia Grand Commander, General Vuro, led whatever survivors the remaining Prossial fleet could collect to refuge on Illexus, a developing Hethroycken-occupied colony that is guarded by her former Allied Force camp leader, Gurthyrus.

Given the reactions regarding Prossia and Gooliun from people across the galactic community included jubilation from many, Vuro realized her faction was dire need of refining its public image if it ever wanted to convince the galactic community that the Solution’s offer and method of obtaining peace would only lead to more chaos and calamity. An opportunity to show the public that this was the case arrived when the corrupt planetary Optues nation responsible for the construction of the glassers sought aid from them. After the Solution publicized Optues’ involvement in the development of the glassers, it became the final tipping point for the Optin locals, who felt their Empress Feaunya was taking too many recources originally designated for the public in order to meet her own personal desires. In exchange for her protection from her own people, the empress offered information regarding the Solution’s possible whereabouts and tactics.

Vuro’s forces succeeded in defending the empress and restoring some bit of order within the Optin region, though the victory was brief. For elsewhere across the galactic world, it was revealed that not everyone in the Prossia Faction believes in their new leader’s direction. General Cyleroa—the Cyogen/Requin hybrid who killed Vuro’s father—made a ruckus in Sauthian territory when the forces he directed went about gathering some Intel the way they have typically done in the past—through brute force. This happened despite Cyleroa insisting his troops follow Vuro’s example. Despite the setback, however, Vuro decided to keep to their new course, regardless of the healthy division among her own people regarding it. With such being the case, not only must the new grand commander give her own people assurance, but she and many others must wonder if the person sitting next to them is as loyal as they appear to be.

And NOW, three months have passed and calmness has returned thanks to the Intel Cy’s forces previously gathered, halting many of the Solution’s planned schemes. With each passing day, it seems the galaxy is slowly but surely considering giving Prossia another chance. Vuro’s forces are prepping for another peace demonstration on an Optin Colony in the dead of the region’s Winter. While many prep for the public occasion, some must stay behind to cope with the weather...

Chapter 1

Prossia Solution Uprising: Day 207

Optin Space Colony Naishal

City of Malla: 10 hours 02 minutes in the morning

Downtown

Three Universal months had passed. Gegun was wrapped up in a blanket one morning while everyone prepared for another peaceful march down the streets of a city called Malla on an Optin colony called Naishal. He had hoped to tour all seven levels of the metropolis, but a fever prevented him from doing so.

Catty knocked on the door to his tent and came in with a bowl on a platter. The odor from the substance in the bowl smacked his nostrils without mercy.

The master pinched his nose. By Truth’s Grace, what concoction could cause such a fowl stench?

I told my mammai of your symptoms, thus she offered me a remedy for you.

Tell the mistress she has my thanks, yet I would prefer to ‘ride this out’.

Catty forced him to sit up as she placed another pillow behind his back. Do not be as a baby. We have been stationed here for a month, and it be my desire to visit the shopping district prior to my leave, yet no other be willing to travel with me.

Gegun squirmed against the pillow. The odd weather has forced a grave deal of us to be bedridden, Catty. One day the rooftops be covered in snow and the following day shall see rain showers and puddles in the streets. This one cannot fault the ones who could not acclimate properly. Beyond such, why would this one believe I should accompany you in anyone’s stead?

Did you not say you wanted to traverse the many levels of the city?

Truly, yet I said nothing of being tortured with carrying one’s bags along the way. I be no fool. Doyai tricked Nequin and I plenty of times to do such biddings for her.

Oh? And what of Cushnuun?

He was the smartest out of the lot of us, thus hid the instant she even mentioned her Heads-Up Display notifying her of a discount. The master turned his head. And, thus I remind you, this be no vacation, Mastra. Cy’s Intel indicated there be numerous Solution cells on this colony, and we are to snuff them out with minimal confrontation.

Truly, yet we struck the bulk of them two months prior and have not seen much activity from them in over a week.

Then they must have gotten better at hiding.

Catty puffed out her cheeks. Fine. Whatever be the case, you cannot slumber in bed whilst the rest of us make efforts in bettering the city. Come. Eat. She dipped a utensil in the green goop of the bowl and held it up to him.

Gegun folded his lips together and leaned away.

The mastra grabbed his knee with her enhanced arm and squeezed.

Ow!

Catty shoved the utensil in his mouth and kept his lips shut, forcing him to swallow. Gegun’s eyes rolled into the back of his head as he groaned and grabbed his belly.

Catty grinned. Good boy.

Vuro knocked on the door and entered, locking eyes with the commando first. Cattalice.

General.

Then she noticed Gegun, who seemed ready to vomit. Gegun, you seem worse than you did the day prior.

Then, by Truth’s Grace, take this mastra away from me so my body and spirit may be of peace.

Both mastras started to giggle, though Vuro cleared her throat and stopped, apparently not wanting to share a chuckle with Catty.

Any reports concerning the bulk of the forces in Sauthianos, ma’am? Gegun asked.

Vuro shook her head. The added security has proven effective for now, and our addition of Optin vessels has apparently forced the Solution into reevaluating their course.

And what of the glassers? Any signs of them?

The general groaned aloud. I fear not, which grows my nerves by the day. How does one hide such large monstrosities?

The galaxy be a grand place, Catty insisted. If one desires to hide, then there be little trouble in doing so, which might be for the best, all things considered, yes? Otherwise, your advisors would perhaps not be as safe.

And we must note the other positive, Gegun said. Signs of public favor have shown hints in shifting to us. Or, at the least, favor for the Solution has dwindled.

Vuro took a knee beside the master’s bed. I suppose this one be right. We best take whatever gains with gratitude. Yet what of you, Gegun? You are certain you have no quarrel in marking through my reports, yes?

Of course! If I am to be here for a moment, then I shall make myself useful to whatever means be.

Vuro rubbed his nearest leg. "Get well soon, very good? Let’s go, Cattalice."

Coming.

The two left him to himself and the gigantic bowl of poison. Gegun picked up the bowl, sniffed it, and quickly set it down. He opened an orb and checked the section Vuro said had their latest records. The master’s ear chirped. It was Cy.

Hey, Master.

Long time, eh? Cy’s holographic head popped in front of him. Whoa. You don’t look so good.

The lad sniffed and rubbed his nose. The weather here hasn’t agreed with me.

Sorry to hear that. The hybrid eyed the bowl. Is that your medicine? Chufa’s probably got a pill or sumthin’ that’ll fix you up in a minute.

I can’t take any. He said it would be too risky since my body’s already trying to fight the virus off. He has me bedridden for the time being, though he does check on me like a parent monitoring an infant. Mistress Cattalice the Younger isn’t helping either. He eyed the bowl.

Catty made that for you?

Gegun gagged. Yeah.

The Cyogen grinned. That was sweet of her, eh? But as a higher-ranking officer, I think I gotta remind you about our fraternization policy, eh?

Gegun’s fever wasn’t what heated him up. Cyleroa, you’re mistaken. It’s not like that. She’s just being nice.

Uh huh. Sure. And I’m Negfra’s favorite Cyogen. Whatever the case, keep it platonic. The master’s grin grew. But between you and me, don’t ask don’t tell, eh?

Cyleroa...

Chufa entered the room with a bowl of greens. How are you feeling, Gegun? Oh. Hey, Cy. Is Chousy with you?

What’s in, Master? And nah, she had some errands to run in the lab. Hey, did Gegun tell you Catty’s courtin’ him?

She is not!

Chufa set the greens beside the bowl Catty had left. Really? That explains the sudden flushed colors around her chest, then. I was wondering who had caused that. Good for you.

Gegun wiped his nose. Master, are you to believe in anything he says? Cy would probably say he’d date a heavy and you’d believe it.

Chufa and Gegun waited for Cy to make a counter, but he never did. The hybrid looked up and scratched his head instead.

Hmm.

Gegun punched the side of his bed. I meant that as a joke, Cyleroa!

And implyin’ that’s just plain mean. Big girls need love, too.

Gegun was about to make his case again, but didn’t see the point in doing so. Was there something you needed, General?

Sure is, Master Sensitivity. Our comms went down a couple of minutes ago, but they came back up before Jugo or anyone else could have a look. Wonderin’ if you folks had anything like that happen on your end.

Gegun glanced at the Wethan, who shook his head. No, we haven’t, though I assume you’re thinking it’s something worth noting.

Gegun, the last time our systems went down randomly, a planet was glassed. Of course I think it’s sumthin’ worth noting.

Systems have been fine over here, Master, Chufa said. Still, if you don’t mind me saying, Gegun, I do prefer Cy’s side of caution.

Gegun sat up. This is a deeply saturated area with Solution cells, too. And given they’ve been quiet to the point of scary lately, I can’t say I disagree.

What precautions are you taking? Cy asked.

We had thirty Optin patrol vessels join up with us last week, given the solar region is a small one. We have the ends of the system being monitored easily, and we’ve checked the path to today’s peace march more times than I can count.

Cy nodded. Good. How many people do you have armed down there?

Gegun’s brows rose. The Optin law enforcement is armed, of course.

Cy’s head grew. You mean to tell me Vuro has you all paradin’ down the streets without any security?

We have a cruiser marking out locations in orbit, which has been the norm for the past three months.

It’s clear this isn’t the norm this time, eh? Gotta go. The Cyogen’s face disappeared.

Chufa picked up the bowl Catty had left and swooshed it about. What do you think he’s going to do?

Nothing, really. His forces are beyond milos away.

The Wethan shrugged as he picked up the veggies. I hope he doesn’t do anything too rash. You know how impulsive he can be at times when he gets the urge to run with his gut.

Tell me about it.

Gegun took the offered food and Chufa bopped himself in the back of the head.

What’s wrong, Chufa?

The Wethan rubbed the area he struck. Weird. I felt a bit of a tingle—

Vilua’s face appeared in front of both of them. Gegun sat straight up, too startled to say a word.

Chufa, the hologram said, we cannot wait any further. Our time has arrived.

Chufa bumped his back against the wall, staring at the hologram briefly before locking eyes with the confused Sungstra.

Then Gegun charged his hand. Chufa... You?

The Wethan grabbed Catty’s bowl of goop and flung it into the Sungstra’s face. The stupendous heat took his breath away as he tried to scrape it off him. Then Chufa snatched a silver tray and whopped him in the back of the head, knocking him out of the bed and onto the floor. Gegun never imagined a Wethan having so much strength. As he tried to get up, his blurry eyes caught the Wethan raising the tray over his head again.

Chufa, wait—

The Wethan rammed the service piece into his skull again. Gegun stopped moving. Chufa lifted his arms again. Another crack into the head. Another crack. And then another. After the sixth blow, the exhausted Wethan tossed the bloodied and dented tray away and slid into a corner, panting.

Chufa raised a trembling hand to the side of his ear. Chousy. They’re on to us. You have to help me.

Crowds of people filled the sidewalks as Vuro led her soldiers down the streets for their peace rally. The left was filled with cheers while the right offered jeers. From the sounds of it, both sides tried to overpower the other.

Cushnuun, who stood beside the grand commander, leaned over to her. I cannot recall seeing such passion in ages. Look about.

Vuro gazed overhead. The streets above had citizens watching them, as well. The people on her left held up Prossial emblems while the other side held up the old one, now claimed by the Solution. And then there were a poor handful who waved the Galactic Order’s symbol.

Vuro noted, This seems sad, yet we may see this in another light later, yes? Whilst this be an opportune time for our parties to vent and yell, their exhaustion shall nurture true dialect.

A wildest of dreams indeed, Bright Eyes. Yet, if one shall make it so, it is to be done through you.

Not really. I be a mere target folk may jointly sneer their anger to, which be beyond fine. At the very least, people can agree on one thing, yes?

Vuro stopped when a Little One left her mother’s side and ran out to the streets. The tiny Optin hurried up to her, having the largest smile on her face.

The Sungstra took a knee, but was still a head higher than the child. You should stay with you mother, Little One.

The mother ran and grabbed her daughter, tugging her away. Before she left, however, the child handed Vuro a cloth.

I drew a picture of you, Mastra.

Vuro stood up and unfolded the cloth. It had a circle with two black ovals in the middle. There was also a squiggled line coming out of one of them, though it was on the wrong side. It was supposed to be a picture of her mask.

Wow. This is great! Thank you.

The Little One smiled as the mother picked her up.

Sorry, the mammai said as she hurried back to the crowd.

Vuro placed the drawing to her chest, allowing her armor to store it. Cushnuun nudged her with an elbow.

Aww, how sweet. Perhaps the thought of everyone desiring this one’s head on a stick be a tad exaggerated, yes?

Vuro didn’t have time to respond, given Cy’s chime rung her ear.

Cushnuun rubbed her arm. I sense a sudden chill. What troubles you, dearest?

Cy calls. She looked behind her, unable to see where the body of soldiers and supporters ended—how beautiful, considering they once thought they were on their final rope a few months ago. Keep moving. She activated her comm. ...Hello?

It’s me.

Yes, I know. Do you need something?

I think sumthin’s runnin’ foul. You need to get sharp.

Vuro looked around her. We’re in the middle of a parade.

Then cancel it. Your bein’ there is jeopardizing our folk, eh? Comms went down here not long ago. You know what happened last time that happened.

Vuro’s lips went dry at the thought. She knew it. This was too good to be true. But maybe...just maybe. You’re being paranoid. Have Jugo check and confirm.

There’s nothing to check and confirm, damn it! Systems came back up as if there wasn’t anything wrong at all.

Probably because there isn’t.

Mastra—

If the engineers aren’t alarmed, then you shouldn’t be either. That will be all, General.

Vuro, just hold on a sec, will ya?

The mastra turned off the comm. No. Her mind was playing tricks on her. They were bound to trip over themselves, just as Vilua wanted. There was no need for attacks on them when they could tear each other apart through their own fears. The Solution could sit back and enjoy the calamity. She wouldn’t let Vilua win. She couldn’t.

What did he need? Cushnuun asked as they kept walking.

The mastra eyed the ground. She shouldn’t make him worry. She tried to chuckle, though remembered how much she hated her father’s fake smiles of assurance.

Cy believes the Solution may be planning something.

What?

Cushnuun almost stopped, if Vuro hadn’t grabbed him by the elbow.

Keep moving, I beg. We cannot give people reason for more alarm than we can handle, yes. Follow back to the rear. Tell whatever crowd of supporters to keep back as we cross the next intersection, very good?

Very good, Mastra.

Vuro had already mumbled some profuse words in three languages by the time the master was out of sight. This was supposed to be a great day. How foolishly ambitious and selfish of her. She should’ve known Truth’s Grace didn’t give them such nice tidings for this long.

The intersection up ahead had a highway three stories above them. As she approached it, she wondered what the people five levels beneath them were doing. Were they minding their own daily routines, watching the march on screen or holo, or planting an improvised explosive device underneath them?

The mastra checked the corners of the buildings. Recorders and drones watched her every move, which meant countless of other eyes would see this across the galaxy. This was what Vilua wanted. Having her second-guess her decisions and movements. The sick creature. To think she ever respected him.

A pop rang over the air. She darted her eyes toward the direction. Just a bunch of punks trying to get attention with a big bag. They gnashed their teeth at her as they flaunted the shirts they had sprayed the Solution logo on.

There was no telling if they were civilians or soldiers, just as it had been on Ghefu. She remembered that day. Walking right into a trap with people watching her, just like this.

Cyleroa was right. They had made a terrible mistake.

Vuro opened the main channel. Attention all commanding officers. Guard the perimeters and have the Goolians support our rear.

But General— a voice over the channel said.

Just do it, people.

Her order was echoed down the row behind her through the other officers, and in an instant, the soldiers broke their steady march and braced themselves against the startled crowd.

Requesting aerial scout support, Vuro asked.

Acknowledged, an operating voice said. Dropping drones now.

The crowd screamed as the cloudy gray sky filled with tiny blank dots that turned into a swarm of drones. Panicked parents picked up their Little Ones and bolted for the nearest indoor vicinity. Vuro’s HUD monitored every drones’ alert levels. They were in the clear so far.

Check upper and lower levels.

The swarm did a nose dive down to the streets beneath them as the levels lost the number of onlookers within seconds. People pushed, shoved, and trampled over one another as they tried to escape. From what, they hadn’t a clue, and Vuro wasn’t too certain either.

The soldiers stood their ground for another ten minutes until the drones returned to her, not indicating any sort of threat.

Situation is clean, my lord, a soldier said in the channel. "Ordering troops to reform.

Shit... She was the first to return to the street. Acknowledged.

Civilians left trampled on the sidewalks moaned and cried out for help, sounding similar to a person who had just gone into shock from losing a ligament. The problem, however, was the fact that there weren’t any grenades to blame this time.

Catty trotted up to her. What are you doing? What happened?

Vuro rubbed her forehead, lost for words. What was she doing? It was a good question, given she hadn’t a clue.

Attention all units. We’re returning to base.

The march home was a slow and dreary one. Catty suggested the Goolians stay behind and help with the wounded, given Prossia probably didn’t want any more exposure than what was about to be due. As expected, the temperature made a sudden dip a few hours past noon. The clouds above brightened as flurries nipped everyone’s nose.

Vuro covered her face with her cape’s hood as Cushnuun walked with her. He said nothing. He just held her hand. He understood; Vilua ended up winning today’s battle after all, and proved the tragic truth. They all still bought the lie he had given them, and they were just waiting in terror for him to reveal himself again. This wasn’t living. This was torture.

Upon returning to camp, a line of soldiers awaited her. Glani was amongst them, probably ready to scoff at her. The mastra approached her, but Vuro passed by.

If you have any complaints to make, you can report them to your senior officer.

No, Mastra. Something happened while you and the others were gone. Your people were going to report it, but figured we’d wait until you returned after the incident downtown.

Vuro stopped and turned to her. Something did happen? Where? When?

Requai folded her hands together. It’s one of your officers. Gegun.

* * *

Vuro and Cushnuun watched the medic bots and Wethans scurry about as they monitored his vitals behind a glass-like wall. Chousy’s hologram floated around with the aid of an orb on the ground; she and Chufa were the only ones who had access to the Sungstra’s medical records.

We’ll keep him in a sedated coma for the next few days, the Wethan said. The swelling should go down by the evening, but our charts are hinting he might’ve suffered some brain damage. We’ll keep an eye on him.

Cushnuun moved aside when Catty entered the monitoring room they were in.

Any traces of Chufa’s whereabouts? Vuro asked, not bothering to turn around.

Chousy froze, but eventually shook her head. Beyond the prints on the tray, none. He knew what we would’ve used to search for him.

Cushnuun crossed his arms. Good for him. He’d better make sure he’s far from my reach. Damned Wethans. None of them can be trusted.

Cushnuun, Vuro said sternly.

The master took a deep breath. I’m sorry, Chousy.

No. We haven’t had the best record, have we? She glanced at Gegun when the machines stopped working on him. We’re done. Come on in.

When the three entered the room and stood around Gegun’s operating bed, Vuro rubbed Gegun’s knuckles. They were so cold to the touch, she feared he was dead—despite the beep from monitors around him indicating otherwise.

Are you certain Chufa didn’t say anything odd to you, Chousy? Had you noticed anything different from him?

The Wethan stared dead at the Sungstra and shook her head. He was perfectly fine the last time I spoke to him. No indications of excitement or stress from holding in a secret at all.

Catty blew out a whiff of air. I already said Solution personnel are trained to hide such notions from any sort of detector. That includes Wethans, so there’s no telling how long he was in league with them.

Vuro shook her head. This doesn’t add up. What did the Solution gain by just attacking Gegun?

If I were to guess, Catty said, Chufa was probably supposed to initiate some sort of signal downtown. Gegun must’ve discovered it, and I assume you can fill in the rest. Given your sudden act of alarm in the city, the Solution must’ve learned we were on to them and aborted whatever plan they had in mind.

Cushnuun rubbed Vuro’s shoulders. It looks like you did end up saving lives in the end, after all, Mastra.

Vuro brushed his hands off her.

We should explain this to the public, Chousy said.

With what proof? Vuro stepped away from Gegun’s bed. We’d just be making up a story to explain why I randomly decided to stir up a panic that resulted in thirty Optin citizens ending up in the medical boards.

What are we supposed to do in the meantime, then? Cushnuun asked. We stopped a threat, but don’t even have a lead.

Then we’re going to find one. Chousy, I want you to gather a team of people you can trust and send them here immediately. I want them to check for anything suspicious. If Cy has any quarrel with the transfer, let him know I’m giving you a direct order.

The Wethan nodded. Of course. If you wouldn’t mind, however, I’d like to assist with the investigation, as well.

Cushnuun waved a finger. I don’t think that’s a good idea, Bright Eyes. Sorry, Chousy, but you’re too close to this.

Vuro rubbed her chin. I’m afraid I’d have to agree with him, Mastra. I know it’s harsh, but the fact that you’re Chufa’s best friend might be why he was able to do as he pleased without notice.

Chousy looked puzzled. You’re right. Which is why I’m begging you to let me help. Gegun wouldn’t be in his predicament if I hadn’t been so blind before. Believe me when I say I won’t make the same mistake again.

Vuro turned to the two Goolians behind her. They held their peace. It was her call.

Very well, Mastra. See you soon. She patted both Cushnuun and Catty on the shoulders. As for the two of you, tear this place apart and find whatever you can. Cushnuun, grab the people who stayed here at the camp while we were at the parade and have them questioned. One of them might not be telling us something. Catty, I want you to round up as many abled Goolians and do a search along the streets. Search. Every. Square. If the local authorities try to clean up, let them know I ordered the area to be scanned.

Catty tugged the beads tied around her side tent. Will do, but don’t you think we might be pushing our boundaries?

Does it look like I give a damn? Vuro pointed at Gegun. Look what they did to him. Not another one. Do you understand? Not a single one.

Vuro stormed out and Cushnuun followed after her. After I have the people at camp questioned, what would you have me do next?

"Head back to the Zandul when you’re done. It’s time you ask our Lanvi guest a couple more questions."

Cushnuun’s eyes darkened. It shall be my pleasure, Bright Eyes.

Chapter 2

Prossia Solution Uprising: Day 216

Optin Space District 8: 2 hours 42 minutes in the morning—Universal Time

Prossia War Vessel Zandul

Second Council Board

Phojero was in one of the spare meeting rooms aboard the Zandul a week later, talking with Empress Feaunya. The Optin seemed delighted, having a Prossial advisor coming at her on the defensive, given public relations had taken a hit.

Highness, I can understand the building frustration amongst your supporters, but I hope you can convince them to reconsider their notion. It’s unfortunate we cannot come to a mutual understanding.

No, we understand each other very clearly, General. Feaunya sipped a drink. However, these are delicate times, more so for me than anyone else. The citizens are evaluating my every move, just waiting for any mishap to add before my trial.

We can relate.

Then you will appreciate that I’m trying to respect their wishes. Not only did your grand commander’s actions cause more fear across the nation than it could afford, but she then had the audacity to demand that Prossial forces oversee the investigation to this attempted attack you all have ‘claimed’ to have thwarted. This is sovereign territory. This might not be Ufre or Sauthianos—we didn’t shoot at you the instant you came into our yards, since we invited you. Regardless, we still expect you to wipe your feet before walking into the house. It’s a common courtesy in many countries here, in case you’re unfamiliar with the gesture.

A hard analogy to disagree with. These are difficult times for us all, Mastra. I strongly encourage you to consider all options. You’re a powerful individual, are you not? I’m certain you can convince your constituents it would be in their best interests if we were given a little more time to run our investigation.

Feaunya folded her hands together. You’re embarrassing yourself by begging, General. The answer is still no. Shouldn’t you be happy? The public is speaking, and I’m actually listening to them for a change.

You’re only listening to them because you want the same thing for once.

Absolutely, my dear. Regardless, you have one Universal day to vacate our realm. That is final.

The Cyogen’s lips twisted as he tried to keep his composure. Stupid people. The instant something bad happened to the Optins, he was certain they’d find a reason to blame Prossia.

So, that’s it? We flew all the way here to save your life initially. And now that you’ve found a reason to kick us out, you’ll use it for all its worth?

The empress smirked as she ran a finger across the rim of her drink. My goodness. You’re a perceptive one, aren’t you?

The general bowed, gritting his teeth. I’m sorry we couldn’t come to an agreement.

And I’d be lying if I said I was, too. Feaunya sat up. Don’t be such a sore loser, Cyogen. It’s not like you’re departing empty-handed, right? You’ll be leaving with Optin military support, and people will still bustle about your ‘peaceful’ resolution over my nation. Go back home, General, wherever you people call it, and take your war with the Solution crazies with you. Have a nice day. She covered her mouth. "Oh! I almost forgot. Prossia veraco."

Phojero turned off the comm. You’re welcome, by the way.

The Cyogen stood up and headed to the prison chambers, where Vuro watched Cushnuun interrogate their one and only prisoner; it was only fair she received the news face-to-face. Not to mention, he wanted to make sure the grand commander hadn’t allowed the master Sungstra to beat the commando beyond the ability to talk.

It took Phojero ten minutes to reach the prison cells. The Goolians must’ve heard him come down the stairs, given they already faced him once he descended. The prisoner’s face barely seemed Goolian, given the black and blue swells around it. Tiny puncture wounds surrounded his entire head as he tried to rub a swollen cheek with a bloodied hand, his knuckles smashed in. Lucky for him his species didn’t have claws; otherwise, they would’ve been ripped off days ago.

What are you doing here, General? Vuro asked.

I just finished talking with the empress. I assumed you wanted the report in person.

Vuro turned to the prisoner. Fair enough, but not here. Cushnuun, take a breather.

The lad rubbed his knuckles and dipped them in a bucket of ice water, blue with blood. Only because you tell me to.

The two went back upstairs, away from prying ears.

Given the look on your face, I assume the worse?

Phojero nodded. We still have their war vessels, but we have to be gone within a Universal day.

Damn it. Vuro rubbed her forehead. I was hoping they’d give us more time.

Be happy they didn’t end our relations altogether. If I’m free to say, sir, we could’ve handled our investigation procedure with more delicacy.

And have a potential mole on their side tamper with the evidence? Out of the question.

"Who’s to say one of ours didn’t? We never found anything conclusive, either way."

Vuro crossed her arms. I hope you’re not expecting me to apologize.

I wouldn’t dream of it. My only regret is we won’t have front row seats to the empress’ trial.

That would’ve been entertainment on an epic scale, wouldn’t it? Vuro pushed herself off the wall and popped her fingers. Give Ka’tchi the news. Have her set a course back to Illexus along with the vessels stationed in Sauthianos. They can meet us halfway.

Sauthian territory is closer than Hethroycken. Can’t we just meet them there?

The mastra held up two fingers. One: our popularity in Sauthian space is still on the healing process after Cy’s actions a few months ago, and I’d rather not sour that with us showing up to sleep over again. Two: the overseer said the heavies need some supplies, and we now have plenty to spare.

The colony is short of supplies? I thought your heavy friend said they could take care of your people without any trouble.

You know things change. If you need to reach me again, just call. You seem exhausted from the walk.

All the more reason why I needed an excuse to get off my ass, ma’am. Phojero saluted. Try not to have too much fun with the prisoner. Has he said anything?

Not yet.

I noticed his jaw’s swollen. Breaking it won’t do us any good.

Vuro opened the door for Phojero. Noted. Have Ka’tchi make a call to the fleet in the Sauthian systems. We’ll need to give them a rendezvous point where we can meet halfway back to the heavy colony.

Yes, ma’am.

That will be all, General. Thank you.

Requai nibbled on some greens on her bunk in the barracks as Glani read a scroll across from her. She licked her fingers and tossed her bowl onto the cushion meant to be her bed. Glani lowered her scroll and glared at the mastra making a racket. The other mastra, of course, didn’t seem to care, and tried to pick some seeds out of her teeth.

Glani set her scroll down. Requai, I feel it be beyond time that we converse.

With regard to what?

With regard to Vuro’s incident on Hensauf, of course. Truly, you shall make yourself sick bottling such frustration. And do not say you fare well. The marks of stress around your eyes speak the truth.

Requai shrugged. What concern is it of yours? I was not the one to attack the mastra. Beyond such, you were always so quick to support these people and their cause. Not I.

Nay, I only found it logical not to swat away the hand offering us bread. I care not who it be.

So, had roles changed and it was Prossia invading us and the Solution aiding us, you would have me to believe you would have still done the same, yes?

Perhaps. It be hard to see much of a difference. Both speak of peace, yet many suffer with their presence. Be that as it may, what is done is done, yes? There be no point in making a fuss over such things now.

Requai lay down on her cushion, eying the ceiling. Such a petty excuse. It cannot be as simple, Glani. Every day we walk alongside these people, I feel I yet again lose a bit of myself, as if I am to betray who we be.

Catty does not seem to suffer such notions.

"She be different, and you know it. She has always been the best out of the four of us, thus her conviction can never be