The Mortalis Series: Books 1-3

By Larry Cockerham

In eternity, there was no hurry.

In the year A.D 3196 humankind is thriving and striving for the stars. Among them stand the Mortalis, flesh and blood beings who can live extensively by xulon, a life-preserving plant that gives health and vitality when ingested. Then there were the Ascended, immortal transcended beings that can reside in both the natural and supernatural elements. 

Follow Lieutenant Colonel Marion, a two-hundred and something (friendly warning: never ask her real age!) woman who is the third centennial officer and the commander of the famed Black Warrior Battalion, a small squadron elite skilled in every art of battle. And she runs a tight ship.

"I want everything to run smoothly once we reach Midway Station. We don't have room for mistakes on our mission."

She leads an expedition to colonize new planets. Along the way she stumbles into politically charged alien kingdoms, war, loss, and betrayal that questions the purpose of her military life time and again. Marion can live a long life, but that doesn't mean that she is immortal. 

"Oh, I remember everything… Every wound, every cut, every disappointment. I may heal physically, but emotionally the pain is still there."

Years pass and the peace Marion worked so hard to achieve, personally and intergalactically, is under threat when Galactic war is declared. It is her sworn duty to take up arms with her comrades. So, her faith is put to the test once again. So is her control. 

"The enemy threatens to destroy our way of life. We cannot let this happen. Shortly we'll be boarding our transports and heading into battle. I will be there to lead you to victory. There will be no mercy because our enemies have shown no mercy!"

Get to your posts! Battle Stations!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Larry Cockerham
• Release date: Jan 5, 2019
• ISBN: 9781386226147

Book preview

1

THE NEW BEGINNING

BY A.D. 3196, THE MORTALIS finished the last phases of preparation for travel to the stars. Like the legendary Phoenix, the New Earth had risen from the ashes of the old. The population had now reached unsustainable limits. The Ascended had already prepared for their arrival; their mission was to have the infrastructure ready and to maintain everything within acceptable parameters.

Their technology had evolved, and they were now ready to begin the next step in their progression. The first colony would number more than twenty thousand and included a small battalion of military—Black Warrior class descendants skilled in the deadliest art of battle. Now that the rebellions had ended, peace reigned supreme throughout the universe. No more death, no more tears; all was now new and everyone was eager to taste the fruits of The New Beginning.

At the forefront was the escort ship Orion, a gleaming galactic cruiser, measuring some three hundred meters in span and capable of exceeding light speed by a factor of ten. It moved swiftly through the blackness of space like lightning falling from heaven.

Lieutenant Colonel Marion Stefanova seemed mesmerized by the changing landscape of nearby stars as they sped past the large, windowless portal. She was a third centennial officer and the commander of the famed Black Warrior battalion. She noticed Second Lt. Adrian Hart, a first centennial officer, watching her closely from across the span. His dark wavy hair and soft brown eyes displayed a genuine compassion for his fellowman.

Beautiful, isn’t it, Colonel? Adrian asked as he crossed over to speak to Marion.

Marion was well into her two hundredth year, yet her physical appearance was no different from Adrian, who was many years younger. Although she was well over six feet tall, her slender frame was well proportioned. Her dark brown hair was usually up in a ponytail tucked through her military style cap. When angry her eyes flashed a blackness that brought dread to her enemies.

Although the Mortalis were eternal in their outward form, the life-preserving leaves were what gave them their health and vitality; fortunately, they were given permission to bring these along to cultivate for their new settlement.

Exquisite, Marion agreed as she leaned intently against the bulwark. I never dreamed we would be moving out among the stars, at least this soon. Have you finished the duty roster that I asked for, Lieutenant? she asked abruptly.

Yes, Colonel, Adrian remarked, snapping to attention.

Everything is ready as you ordered. Adrian knew that a good report from his superiors would serve him well when they reached their destination. All the officers would be given positions in the new government based on their faithfulness to serve.

I want everything to run smoothly once we reach Midway Station, Marion added, smiling wryly at the young officer’s overly energetic snap to attention. We won’t have time for mistakes, and I would like some time to go over our mission reports once we arrive.

Out of the more than 256 nearby extra-solar planets, only a handful were capable of sustaining life and this one already had a small outpost. However, it was large enough for the colonists to spend time outside of their cramped conditions aboard the eight ships speeding toward their destination. Midway Station was about halfway between the New Earth and Albea Prime; the Class M planet they would be colonizing. It was one of seventeen planets circling a type G2V main-sequence star, like their former yellow Sun.

The colony would become the hub of activity for the rest of the satellites as the settlers began to branch out. The Ascended would continue their work of engineering the planets’ environments for the incoming colonists.

Eventually, they would move on to other systems farther out, terra forming these and so on. In eternity, there was no hurry.

The Ascended did an admirable job terra forming the planet’s atmosphere, temperature, and topography; Albea Prime was now ready for habitation. This concept of planetary engineering had once been hypothetical but had now become reality. The environment of most earth-like planets could be quickly altered to within tolerable limits.

The Ascended were not like the Mortalis. The Mortalis were flesh and blood with the ability to procreate. Nevertheless, they were thought of as eternal, although they still depended on the life-enhancing plants to sustain their health.

On the other hand, the Ascended were transcendent and could move without the limitations of bodily hindrance. They did not require the spaceships but could transfer at the speed of thought. They did not procreate; they were immortal, and fitted for both realms—the natural as well as the supernatural.

As Marion settled in her cabin, her thoughts continually raced back and forth to the insurmountable tasks that lay ahead. When she had established herself as the new commanding officer, there would be plenty of time. As soon as they arrived at their destination, things might change, but for now, she intended to stay aloof; stick to the game plan. Then who knew where this might lead? Once the colonies branched out to the other planets, she might eventually become the acting commissioner of the new system.

She would just have to close everything out of her mind until she achieved her objectives. Then, maybe, who knows? Things might swing full circle.

A LOUD WARNING ALARM woke Marion from her dreams and she found everyone scurrying throughout the ship. Somehow, a seam in one of the outer compartments had weakened and was coming apart. The giant ship was slowing to a complete stop. The other ships were slowing as well. Several of the engineers were pouring over the design plans, trying to figure out what had gone wrong and the best way to solve the problem.

Marion’s sleep cycle would end in an hour, so she decided to go to the bridge to see if she could find out what had happened. Rear Admiral Richard Byrd was in his quarters and First Lt. Anna Dakova saluted Marion as she went about her duties.

Yes, Colonel? she asked politely. Is there anything I can help you with?

That’s not necessary, Lieutenant, Marion replied, looking out over the huge bridge that stretched over several meters. I was just curious to see what had happened.

I can take you down to Level Twenty-Three, Colonel, she replied, if you’d like to see what’s going on?

Fine. I’d like that, Lieutenant, Marion said, slightly smiling. As she looked over the smooth lines of the bridge and the gleaming instrumentation that seemed jammed into every corner of the compartment, she could not imagine how anything could have gone wrong. Everything was double-checked, tested, and retested.

Without the help of the Ascended, they would never have gotten this far this quickly. However, their ability to move outside of the current point in time gave them the ability to work on something as long as necessary and then insert the results anywhere along the time continuum. That was an advantage that the Mortalis would never have. The Mortalis were locked in time. This had been one of the misconceptions: that eternity was timeless, but this proved untrue. Even in eternity, there was time.

As they entered the main elevator, the lieutenant spoke and before Marion could answer, the door opened into a large corridor—Level 23A. Smoke was billowing out at the far end of the hallway, so the two decided to wait for clearance before proceeding further.

I think it’s safe now, Colonel, Lieutenant Dakova announced with a tone of assurance. You can go on ahead, if you’d like.

Thanks, Lieutenant, Marion replied as she peered into the smoke-filled passage ahead. As she moved through the walkway, she saw several of the engineers checking out the overhead seam that connected to the main hull of the ship. It had separated, and a large opening extended for about twenty meters along the upper passageway. They were working frantically to reattach the overhead section.

As Marion threaded her way through the workers, she was beginning to see more plainly as the smoke cleared. As she turned, she thought she saw a flash out of the corner of her eye. There, standing directly in front of her, was a being: tall and slender with a look of nobility, an effervescent radiance emanating from within. The light was not coming from any outside source, yet the glow radiated out several meters. The being was one of the Ascended, sent from the New Earth to help, coming from the Divine Himself. Only He would have known that they were having trouble this far from home. Other ships from the New Earth were not capable of reaching them, as this was a one-way trip—at least for now.

Marion had had little interaction with the Ascended, as she was part of the military and stationed outside the New City. Only once had she encountered one, and that was only for a moment. He had come and gone with little fanfare. She had never even heard one speak for that matter.

However, here was one, standing in the middle of the entranceway in all his radiance. Suddenly, she felt hesitation and anxiety.

Do not fear, Marion, he said, his voice both reassuring and with a tone of authority. Your concerns have been noted." He was there to help. She should not have to worry; they were completely benevolent. Together the Mortalis and the Ascended enjoyed certain advantages. Back on the New Earth they worked together, but here only a handful of teams of the Ascended had been sent ahead to prepare for the coming settlers. Before she could speak there was another flash, and he was gone. As Marion looked up at the ceiling, she was surprised to see that the huge gap was now sealed.

What had he meant by ‘my concerns had been noted’? What concerns? Could he read my thoughts? Could they do that?

2

MIDWAY STATION

THE LEADING TRANSPORT arrived, and people spilled out like angry fire ants after a fresh invasion to their habitat. They had reached their first destination: Midway Station. It was a stopover consisting of several large dormitories, a few outlying warehouses, and a central facility, a medical clinic, numerous kitchens, and recreational rooms dotting the landscape. Scrubby little trees and small cactus-like plants covered the hillside. Beyond the enclave, tall, jagged mountain peaks jutted upwards into the low-lying clouds.

Beyond the Orion, some of the massive transports were still lining up to deliver their occupants as well as much-needed supplies. Marion surveyed the huge dorms and set about enlisting several of her people to initiate an inventory of the sleeping arrangements. The dorms would not be enough room for everyone; some would have to stay on the transports.

Marion could only smile as she looked out at the colonists. At present, they were all officially strangers on a lonely world. There would be no going back—not now, not ever. Most of them left several generations of family and friends behind. They knew what was expected of them: to explore and colonize those planets that were made habitable, ultimately going out to the ends of the cosmos.

We'll stay here, Marion said, as she pointed to a small section of one of the dorms. Several of her contingents began bringing in some of their gear and readied the rooms for the night.

Yes, ma’am, responded Pfc. Sofia Marinov, one of the young female soldiers. She was one of the youngest of the contingent, only a little over one hundred-years-old, but still as agile as when she was in her twenties.

Sergeant Rimes, Marion ordered. Set guards on watch throughout the base. And rotate them every four hours.

Yes, Colonel, Sergeant Rimes answered, carefully checking his weapon as he had so many times before. He was a brave and loyal soldier and an expert marksman. He had helped with many of the rebellions that had occurred at the close of the third millennium.

Now that the millennium had concluded, everyone was eager to venture out into the heavens. Marion was one of the first ones given the opportunity to enter the program. She had the experience in leadership as well as the skills needed in off-world survival. She had completed several stints in some of the closer planetary encampments. However, those were quickly filling up with mining facilities and exploratory scientific expeditions. This was different in so many ways; this was her opportunity to make her mark in colonizing new worlds and more. She could not pass up this chance to further her career.

Marion could not seem to settle down for the night, so after an hour of tossing and turning on the hard pallet, she decided to take a stroll around the facility. Maybe she would check-in with some of the guards to make sure everything was in working order. Soon she could see Sergeant Rimes patrolling near one of the outlying dorms.

Sergeant, is everything going smoothly?

Yes, Colonel, Rimes responded, sounding a little bored. You couldn’t sleep?

Just trying to walk off some of this stiffness from our time on the ship, Marion responded, trying to sound nonchalant. It’s still a little early for me.

So you’re a night owl, Colonel? Rimes questioned ever so politely. I’m kind of like that myself.

I’m just eager to get to our destination, that’s all, Marion added as she sized up the sergeant. He was a large man; Marion felt safe around someone like him.

As Marion and Sergeant Rimes stood peering out at the distant horizon, they could both hear something slowly moving in the tall brush, approaching in their direction.

Heads up, Sergeant, Marion spoke with a cautious tone of authority. Has there been any indigenous life reported here?

Not that I know of, Rimes replied as he raised his weapon.

Soon the sounds became evident that whatever was approaching was huge and swiftly bearing down on the two of them.

The creature was still coming their way.

The ground beneath their feet was beginning to shake.

Marion could feel her heart beating in her chest, her eyes wide, straining out into the darkness and trying to catch a glimpse of whatever was coming their way.

Quickly, Sergeant Rimes fired twice in the direction of the sounds, but it was still approaching.

Rimes fired again.

This time whatever was coming let out a deafening roar.

Soon they could hear the sounds beginning to fade. Whatever it was seemed to be turning back toward the outer perimeter of the base.

Then there was silence.

Is this possible? the sergeant asked, shaking his head in amazement.

That’s not what’s bothering me, Marion said as her heart rate began to slow. This wasn’t supposed to happen here.

Animals have been docile on the New Earth for more than a thousand years, but I’ve never heard anything that sounded like that, the sergeant responded.

Contact the others, Marion ordered, adding, Make sure everyone is on full alert.

This changes everything, Marion thought as she cautiously looked out at the dark night beyond the horizon.

AS MARION SETTLED DOWN for the evening, she realized she would have to call a meeting early the next morning with all the supervisors of the colony. This meant no one wandering around the facility without being armed or with some sort of escort. What was troubling Marion was what may lie in wait for them beyond Midway Station.

The next morning, Marion awoke with a start. All night long, she had had nightmares about an enormous hairy beast stalking her. Soon she was dressed and ready to meet with the leaders of the colonists. This was not going to be pleasant to say the least.

As Marion entered the large conference room, all the colonial leaders were sitting and waiting for her to speak. The leaders numbered about twenty, each one responsible for more than a thousand colonists. They were enlisted for colonial leadership and overseeing the needs of those in their charge.

A towering, overly large man soon emerged from the group. It was Eric James, the acting colonial president. He was an arrogant and ambitious person, sometimes bordering on obsessive. He spoke first.

Hello, Marion, I heard that you and the sergeant had a little excitement last night.

Hello, Eric, Marion replied, trying to hide her lack of sleep. He had certain past indiscretions, but he did have certain qualities that led to his leadership position. Eric supervised several of the outlying mining operations off world and was a top-rated engineer.

Yes, we did, Marion replied, trying to downplay the situation.

I would hope that your men would be able to keep us safe at all times, Colonel? Eric asked.

You don’t have anything to worry about, Eric, Marion answered. If you have any concerns, just be sure to report them to the Council.

The Council consisted of delegates from both the civilian and the military sector. Marion was one of the main committee members and had been instrumental in appointing Eric as president of the colony.

As Marion turned toward the group, she waved her hand, indicating quiet. Soon the room came to a sudden hush.

As each of you know, we had an incident outside the facility last night, Marion announced. A dangerous predator was stalking Sergeant Rimes and myself. We had no choice but to fire on it.

Soon, hands were quickly rising to ask questions. One of the delegates stood up and asked, Colonel, isn’t this an unexpected development?

We all know this is unprecedented in our lifetimes. Some of the scientific group is studying the situation, and as soon as they’ve come up with some answers, we’ll be sure to get back with everyone.

Until then, no one ventures outside the facility and certainly not at night until we can figure out what is going on here.

Following the meeting, Marion contacted several of her commanders from the battalion to discuss the incident. Most agreed everyone must either stay in the dorms or be escorted to any location outside the perimeter. No one would wander the facility after dark. Guards would also be doubled with the authority to arrest anyone not obeying curfew.

As soon as the meeting was over, Adrian came over, looking concerned. Are you okay, Colonel?

Yes, I’m fine, and Adrian?

Yes, Colonel? Adrian responded with the more proper salute.

I don’t want you or any of the others out after dark, okay? Marion knew that some of the younger soldiers liked to get a little overly rowdy and wander off until the early-morning hours.

Of course, Colonel, Adrian responded, smiling to himself as he quickly saluted and sprinted away.

I saw that! Marion shouted as Adrian disappeared around the corner of the long hallway. Youngsters, Marion thought, always getting themselves into trouble. Once they reached their destination, there would be more attention given to the lack of discipline. Everyone had gotten extremely lax on the long trip to Midway Station.

As Marion relaxed in her dorm, she heard a knock on the door.

Colonel, are you there? Sergeant Rimes announced as he stood there with two of the older cadets.

Yes, Sergeant?

The science Council has called a meeting at 1900 hours for anyone who’s interested in their findings. I thought you might want to know.

I certainly would, Sergeant, Marion answered. Let me get my recorder, and... Marion quickly glanced over at the table for her weapon. Soon the sergeant and two of the cadets accompanied her to one of the outlying warehouses.

As Marion, the sergeant and the two cadets entered the building; she noticed several of the scientists gathered around the podium.

The leaders of the colonists were there along with some of the crews from the Orion and the other transports. Obviously, the news of the incident spread quickly around the facility.

Dr. Alex Ravinski, a tall slender man with short curly blond hair and gray eyes, was one of the leading scientists. He spoke first. Please, if everyone would just have a seat, we can get started.

Marion had found a seat near the front and was waiting impatiently for the doctor to begin. Everyone seemed a little on edge.

Dr. Ravinski then held up something large and heavy from a small table near him. This is a plaster cast made from one of the footprints we found early this morning. As you can see here, Dr. Ravinski explained, pointing to the cast, we may have a large primate in our midst.

Primate! You mean like an ape, doctor? Someone cried out as the room suddenly came alive with everyone commenting at once.

That’s correct, gentlemen. Gigantopithecus, to be exact, Dr. Ravinski asserted. But the question is...what is it doing here?

With this, one of the colonial leaders asked, How large is this ape, Doctor?

Gigantopithecus grew to a height of three meters, weighing some five hundred kilograms or more, Dr. Ravinski informed. This giant primate existed some nine million years in the past and as recently as one hundred thousand years ago. It should have been extinct long before, but we seem to be on new ground here, so to speak.

Marion then stood up and asked, And do you think that these animals exist here at Midway Station, Doctor?

For an animal of this size to exist here would be, well, hard to imagine. However, according to our casts of the animal’s footprint, it obviously does. Until we know more, we will just need to exercise extreme caution.

That was all Marion needed to hear as she left with the others to return to her dorm.

As Marion and the sergeant walked back to their quarters, she asked, What about the Ascended, didn’t they check all of this out when they were building the facility?

They were only in this location for a short time, the sergeant answered. Probably not long enough to check out the surrounding area.

They are fast; I can attest to that, Marion added, looking off beyond the facility at the tall mountain peaks. Maybe we need to send out a couple of patrols to scout the surrounding areas in the morning.

It couldn’t hurt, ma'am Sergeant Rimes acknowledged as he headed out into the night. Just say the word, Colonel.

THAT NIGHT MARION CONTINUED to wake every few hours as the nightmares continued. After staying up most of the night, she knew that the lack of sleep would eventually take its toll.

Soon she could see the morning light slowly beginning to enter the large windows of the dormitory quarters. Her room was at the end of the complex, and she could see everyone beginning to get dressed for the day.

Finally, the light of day, Marion thought as she struggled to get dressed. She knew that they would only be at Midway Station for two more weeks, so the sooner they left, the better.

3

THE ENCOUNTER

AS MARION LEFT HER quarters that morning with several of her entourage, she could hear a loud disturbance coming from one of the adjacent dorms. Some of the younger cadets were rushing toward her. Marion could tell something was not right by the anxiety she saw on their faces. Marion had seen this before but this time something was different. She could feel the fear creeping stealthily into her inner psyche.

Colonel, they’re gone! one of the young cadets blurted out as he swiftly saluted Marion.

Calm down, Cadet, Marion ordered, both for her benefit and everyone else’s. What’s wrong?

They never came back last night, Colonel, the young man continued.

Who never came back? Marion questioned.

Several of the men were kidding around and daring each other to go outside the dorms. I didn’t think they would do it, but three or four of them headed out sometime after 2300 hours and never came back.

And why didn’t you report this? Marion asked, furious that anyone would disobey her orders.

I thought they’d come back, eventually—

Obviously, you thought wrong, Marion angrily asserted, and there will be some strict discipline for them as well as everyone else from here on out.

Marion was not only angry, but also worried about the safety of the young men. This could be a black mark on my record, Marion thought. She quickly motioned for one of the cadets to step forward.

Private, go get Sergeant Rimes and have him report to me immediately, Marion ordered, her eyes flashing with disgust.

Soon the sergeant appeared with several of his men following along behind him. Yes, Colonel? Sergeant Rimes asked cautiously.

Sergeant, several of the cadets have been missing since last night. They never reported in. I want three patrols with your best men patrolling along the outer perimeter ASAP.

Yes, Colonel, Rimes responded as he waved for several of his men to come forward.

And Sergeant, Marion added, have them report in every fifteen minutes.

Will do, Sergeant Rimes added as he motioned for several of the men to line up. We’ll form three five-man teams and begin searching in ever-widening circles. If we reach the mountain range and still haven’t made contact, we’ll meet back here by 1400 hours.

Soon the teams were fanning out along the outer limits of the facility as they widened their search perimeter. Marion also had several teams searching the dorms and other areas of the facility along with all the transports.

BY THAT AFTERNOON, the three teams and Sergeant Rimes had finished searching the perimeter of the facility and were reporting back.

As Marion looked out at the rugged peaks of the surrounding mountain range, she was still in disbelief that any of the men would have ventured beyond the perimeter of the facility. She also had learned that Adrian had been part of the group. This hurt worst of all.

We’ll find them, Colonel, Sergeant Rimes spoke assertively.

It’s getting late and it’ll be dark soon, Sergeant, so we’ll form up and get started early in the morning. Marion tried hard to hide her disappointment, but it was obvious she was angry. Let’s meet here at 0500 in the morning with a three-day supply of food and water. We’ll split up into two teams and hope we’ll soon find our missing men.

Yes, Colonel, Sergeant Rimes answered. Sounds good.

Marion then added, We’ll take one of the shuttles so we can save some time. There’s no use going back over the same ground.

0500, Colonel, Rimes acknowledged as he headed back to his quarters.

THE NEXT MORNING, MARION, Sergeant Rimes and several of the men were checking supplies when high overhead, they could hear a loud whirring sound coming their way. As they looked up, they could see one of the silver metallic shuttles coming their way. It was small, but could easily handle the twenty-five-man contingent the sergeant had put together for the search.

As the shuttle gently landed Marion asked, Sergeant, are your men ready?

We’re ready, Colonel, Rimes answered, as he motioned for his men to board the shuttle.

Major Blair, you have the command until I return, Marion asserted.

Yes, Colonel, Major Blair replied. Blair had been passed over for promotion on several occasions and was more than eager to position himself as the commander of the battalion. He always wore a conservative crew cut that emphasized his light brown hair and blue eyes. He was rather short and stocky built with a ruddy complexion that matched his personality.

Before long, the shuttle was gliding high over the mountain range. As Marion looked down at the floor of the valley below, she could soon see a large opening below them.

Set down there, pilot, Marion ordered as she pointed to the narrow space coming up below them. Sergeant, have your men set your weapons to hard stun. If this thing is as big and bad as I think it is, we may only have one chance to bring it down.

Yes, Colonel, Rimes acknowledged as he motioned for his men to form into two groups.

Corporal Singer, Sergeant Rimes barked, have your team move south along the floor of the valley and begin your search. Spread out and work your way back to the shuttle. Be back here by 1400 hours. And check in every hour, Corporal.

Yes, sir, Corporal Daniel Singer replied as he gathered his team. Singer was a third centennial enlisted soldier who had fought with Sergeant Rimes in many of the rebellions. The tall, sandy-haired corporal was handy with a weapon and highly skilled in hand-to-hand combat.

The rest of you men come with me, Sergeant Rimes instructed. Colonel, we’ll scout the north end and work our way back here as soon as possible.

Fine, Sergeant, Marion replied as she gathered her team for instructions. She and five others were moving into the interior of the valley along a narrow shelf that rose above the valley floor.

Before long the team had reached a point along the shelf where they could see large fields of tall plants with other exotic vegetation.

Look, Colonel, bamboo, Private Marinov cried out as she pointed below to the tall plants swaying in the breeze.

Yes, Private. Dr. Ravinski mentioned the animal’s main diet was bamboo, if I remember correctly, Marion replied.

Are those fruit trees over to the right, Colonel? Marinov added.

I think so, Marion replied as she looked down at the dense vegetation. Looks like the ideal place for our large friend. But remember: we’re here to find our missing cadets, people, Marion reminded everyone. Private, make sure you have your weapon handy just in case. I’m going to— Just as Marion spoke, she stepped across some loose rocks that were scattered all along the edge of the shelf. Twisting her ankle, Marion reached for something to steady her fall, but there was nothing there.

Marion began falling over the ledge, grasping furiously at some of the small roots and bushes growing out along the face of the cliff. Then she found herself sliding down a trough-like indention that had eroded in the side of the rock. Marion landed hard at the bottom, knocking her unconscious.

AS MARION BEGAN TO regain consciousness, she became aware that some time had passed. Are the others coming to rescue me? Then the pain hit, excruciating pain that emanated from her side and back. The twisted ankle was now swelling, and Marion realized that her arm might be broken along with some fractured ribs. She was finding it difficult to breathe.

Marion could see the tall bamboo shoots gently swaying in the breeze but now something was different. She could see movement as something was coming—something huge. She could hear the thump-thump-thump-thump of something extremely heavy coming her way. Suddenly in the distance, the tall bamboo trees separated to reveal the creature. It was gigantic, at least twice as tall as an average man with arms that stretched almost four meters in span. The beast weighed nearly half a ton and was walking on all fours. The large black ape was glaring straight at Marion.

With a ferocious roar, the ape lunged and started for her. The ground was beginning to vibrate with the tremendous weight of the large animal.

Marion quickly looked for her weapon, but it had dislodged in the fall. She realized she was completely exposed. I have to get up. I have to move now! Marion quickly looked for somewhere, anywhere that she could find safety. Then she saw a small crevice a few meters from her. An animal obviously burrowed the crevice at one time into the rock wall. I can do this. I can make it. Forget the pain, Marion, just move! Marion fought the pain as she struggled to reach the small opening.

As Marion rolled over into the crevice, the large ape was quickly on top of her. As the animal stretched its long arm into the small crevice to grab for Marion, she squeezed her body as far back as physically possible. The musty stench of the animal was causing Marion to become sick. On the other hand, was it the pain from the fall or both? Marion could feel herself losing consciousness again.

SHE COULD HEAR WEAPONS firing. Then loud talking, as whoever it was seemed to be calling everyone to gather round.

Several of the men gently laid Marion on a makeshift stretcher next to the rock wall. Marion glanced across the clearing and could see the large ape lying motionless on the ground. Marion grimaced as she thought of how close she had come to being killed by the animal. Obviously, the team interrupted his attempt to pull her from the small opening. However, she could not think about this now. She just needed to rest. Soon Marion lost consciousness again.

Before long, the shuttle lifted off and was soaring high over the rugged mountain range. Low-lying clouds obscured the valley floor below. As Marion eased in and out of consciousness, she heard the men discussing the day’s adventure. Stunned, the creature would soon awake to return to his familiar surroundings. Suddenly she awoke to a sharp thud. The team had landed back at the facility and she felt herself being carried by several of the soldiers to the base infirmary.

4

LOST AND FOUND

MARION AWOKE TO FIND herself on a gurney in the medical lab surrounded by several of the military doctors and surgeons.

Dr. Thomas Sabinsky, the head surgeon, was the first to speak. How are you feeling, Colonel? Can you tell us exactly what happened?

Marion was disorientated from the day’s ordeal. She could only point to her head. As she listened, she could hear the doctors discussing her condition.

Yes, she may have a concussion and possibly some rib fractures, Dr. Sabinsky acknowledged as he began waving a wand-like device over Marion’s body. See, just as I suspected, three broken ribs here, Dr. Sabinsky was pointing at a large overhead screen. And this looks like a slight concussion.

Marion was now wide-awake. Will I live, doctor?

As long as you take it easy for a few days, and...no more monkey business, okay? Dr. Sabinsky cautioned with a wry smile.

Couldn’t resist, huh, doc? Marion jested, rolling her eyes.

Soon an orderly was wheeling her into a brightly lit narrow room located in the Midway Station facility. Two nurses arrived to help Marion get into a larger bed after taking her vitals.

Marion Stefanova was one of the tallest females in the battalion and outside of a few others was the oldest traveling in the group. She joined the military during her first centennial year, graduating at the head of her class. She was both agile and skilled in all the martial arts. Scuttlebutt was that she had joined to avenge the death of her parents who had been killed in the early rebellions before the close of the Third Millennium. She was ambitious with a mind for achieving her goals whatever it took.

THAT EVENING, ONE OF the nurses brought in a metal tray with a small crystal clear bowl in the center. Time for your medicine, Colonel, the young nurse announced with a cheery smile. The concoction, called Phullon, was made from the leaves of the life-preserving plants. This will help in the healing process.

Thank you, Marion nodded, but I like the fruit better. Marion could feel the effects almost instantly as she swallowed the mixture. The pain was beginning to lessen, and her strength was returning. Soon Marion was standing up beside the bed.

Wait for doctor’s orders, Colonel, the nurse chided as she took the small metal tray and disappeared from the room.

That evening, Marion was cleared to return to active duty, provided she took on a lesser role for a few days. The first thing she needed to do was to find out if the patrols had located the missing cadets.

Walking to the edge of the facility, Marion found Sergeant Rimes. He was standing pensively next to one of the patrol vehicles.

Colonel, Rimes announced as he saw Marion approach. How are you feeling? Better, I trust?

Yes, I am, and I wanted to thank you for saving me from a horrible death, Marion answered sincerely.

He nodded in the affirmative. No problem.

Well? Marion asked.

The sergeant looked puzzled. Yes, Colonel?

What about the missing cadets? Has anyone gone back to continue the search? Marion was now getting upset.

The missing cadets, Sergeant Rimes answered, smiling, are here.

I don’t understand, Marion scowled, not enjoying being in the dark about the situation.

They arrived soon after we came back to the facility. It seems they spent the night exploring some of the local caves.

They’ll be exploring the inside of the stockade as soon as I can give the order, Marion insisted.

They’re already there, Colonel, he informed.

Take me to them, Sergeant, Marion insisted. I want to get my eyeballs on this bunch of misfits.

As you wish, Colonel, Rimes answered. And Colonel...

Yes?

Lieutenant Adrian was not part of the original group that left. He actually went looking for them later that night. I just thought you might want to know, Rimes added.

Oh...okay, thanks for the heads up, Marion said, trying to sound uninterested. Deep down, she was relieved that Adrian was not part of the group. This might keep him from having a black mark on his record after all.

They arrived at one of the outer buildings of the facility where they were holding the men. There, sitting on the floor of the small room, were six of the soldiers, including Lieutenant Adrian.

You realize you men broke curfew and were out after I gave specific instructions to stay inside the facility? Marion exclaimed. Marion was trying to keep her anger from rising so she was trying to keep her voice from trembling.

Yes, Colonel, all the men replied in unison.

When we leave here, all of you will be on cleaning detail and confined to your quarters for the duration of the trip. Marion knew she had to create an atmosphere of discipline; things had gotten out of hand since they left home.

And you’re getting off easy, Marion added as she turned, leaving the room. Next time I won’t be so forgiving.

After leaving the confinement of the makeshift stockade, Marion turned to Sergeant Rimes. Sergeant, have Adrian meet me in my quarters in fifteen minutes. I’d like to find out more of his involvement in all of this.

Yes, Colonel, Rimes replied as he turned back to get the young officer.

As Marion sat in her office, she tried to think of the best way to approach his indiscretion. Before she had a chance to build a strategy, there was a knock on the door.

Colonel Stefanova? Adrian announced. You needed to see me?

Yes, Lieutenant. Have a seat, Marion said as she motioned for him to sit in one of the facing chairs.

Yes, ma'am, Adrian began. Look, I’m sorry about the other night. I didn’t mean to get you hurt, but the men had gone out and when they didn’t return, I felt that, well...it was my duty to go bring them back.

I understand, Lieutenant, Marion replied, I just don’t want this to go on your record.

I didn’t realize they had gone until it was too late. I knew they had an interest in some of the caves, so I searched until I found their tracks. It was nearly three hours before I found them deep underground.

What on earth were they doing in the caves, Adrian?

Adrian reached in his pocket and pulled out a small black leather pouch. They were looking for these, he replied as he opened the pocket-sized bag. Inside were about two dozen large uncut gems, rare diamonds of various colors.

Well, you realize that these are the properties of the Federation? Marion announced as she thought of the implications of what the men had discovered. Well, we’re going to try to resolve this as soon as possible. Who knows, this could be a windfall for the colonies.

I could help you find the location of the caves if you think it would help? Adrian offered.

We’ll see, Marion replied, thinking perhaps that this could be the answer to her problem. Possibly some of the mining companies might have an interest in this facility in the near future. For now, it would be better if you return to the stockade with the other men. As soon as we leave for our next destination, I’ll make some changes to the situation.

Thanks, Colonel, Adrian replied, looking very relieved as he headed back.

As Marion contemplated the situation, she decided it might be a good idea to follow up on Adrian’s offer.

EARLY THE NEXT MORNING, Marion met with Sergeant Rimes and a couple of his men. The sergeant had brought Adrian along and soon they were driving in their motorized vehicle out along the perimeter of the facility.

Where to, Lieutenant? Marion asked as she turned to Adrian, who was sitting in the back between two other soldiers.

Follow this shallow creek bed, Sergeant, Adrian instructed. It will take you straight to the caves.

Soon they were at the foot of the mountain and could see where the creek bed ended.

Stop here, Adrian instructed as he pointed to the small opening at the foot of the mountain. This is it.

How far back does it go, Lieutenant? Sergeant Rimes asked as he shone his light into the opening.

I’m not sure, Sergeant; it branches off in several directions, Adrian replied as he entered the small opening.

Adrian was leading everyone quickly through the cave. As they continued along the passageway, it was becoming much larger. Then the cave branched off into several directions. Okay, here we are, he announced excitedly as he pointed to where the men had obviously been. There along the wall of the cave were embedded hundreds of uncut diamonds, some as large as a man's hand.

Wow, look at that, Marion exclaimed as her eyes widened to take in the dazzling treasures. What do you think, Sergeant?

Looks like a bonanza for somebody, he proclaimed as he looked along the cave wall.

Lieutenant, how far back did the men go in the cave? Marion asked as she peered farther down the passageway.

I think this was about it, Colonel, Adrian answered.

Well, I can feel fresh air coming through here. It’s got to be coming from somewhere, Marion surmised. Let’s see where this goes.

Within a few hundred meters, the group was beginning to come to a bend in the cave, and as they looked out, they could see vegetation. They were all the way through the mountain to the other side to the valley below. Beyond the opening of the cave were the familiar patches of towering bamboo shooting up like tall sentinels guarding the passageway.

As the group looked out beyond the cave opening, they began to hear, in the distance, the familiar thump-thump-thump-thump of something coming their way. Everyone looked at each other in fear.

Sergeant, let’s move out, Marion ordered as everyone began quickly moving back into the shelter of the cave. Obviously, this was how the beast had made his way through to the facility that night.

As the group traced their steps back through the cave, they could hear the creature closing in behind them. The beast roared ferociously, obviously aware of their presence.

Quickly the team made their way to the opening on the other end of the cave. Moreover, just in time as the large ape was within only a short distance of the group. As Marion and the men rushed to climb into their vehicle, the giant ape came running out of the cave beating his chest and roaring loudly at the group.

Marion was frantic. Hit it, Sergeant!

Gladly, he responded as they quickly sped away.

Soon, Marion and the others were moving back to the safety of the facility. We’re going to have to seal that entrance on the other end, Sergeant.

I’ll take a team tomorrow and do just that, Colonel, Rimes replied as they pulled into the facility.

As Marion sat in her office that evening, she realized that they would eventually need to report their findings to the Federation. Still, that could always wait until they reached their new destination. It was not like there would be anybody coming anytime soon. Marion smiled as she carefully reached into her pocket and slowly pulled out several large, rare ruby-colored gems and locked them safely away in her desk.

5

THE CONFRONTATION

THE COLONISTS HAD BOARDED their transports and were preparing to move out to their next destination: the planet Albea Prime. Marion and her battalion stored their gear and then settled down for the long trip that would take several months or more.

As Marion relaxed in her quarters, she brushed her long dark-brown locks that fell gently upon her athletic shoulders. Most of the time she wore her hair pinned up, but today it would be in a ponytail. Although Marion was tall, she had a very proportionate profile.

Suddenly, a knock came to the door of her quarters. Yes? Marion asked as she continued brushing her long tassels.

Colonel, it’s Private Marinov.

Come in, Private. Marion was not shy about her body.

What’s wrong, Private? Marion asked, laughing at the red faced private. You’ve never been in the presence of a female in the buff?

Here are your reports, Colonel.

Thanks, Private. You can go. Marion sighed as she placed the reports on her cabinet. She would never think of taking advantage of anyone under her command unless, of course, it was consensual. She dressed and was ready for a walk about the deck of the ship.

Everyone was going about their everyday duties, and things seemed quite normal.

Lieutenant Dakova was coming from the bridge and when she saw Marion, she approached her.

How is the Colonel today? she asked. I heard about the incident at the facility.

A close encounter to be sure, Marion replied without a smile as she continued to scrutinize the lieutenant. First Lt. Anna Dakova was a third centennial officer and attached to the Orion since its construction. She was extremely knowledgeable about the ship and supportive of her crew. She answered directly to Admiral Byrd.

Would you like a tour of the ship, Colonel? I’m sure I could find something that would interest you, Officer Dakova offered.

I’d like that, Lieutenant. Of course, I don’t want to take you away from your duties.

Actually, that is part of my duties, Colonel, she explained.

Since we’re going to spend a lot of time together here on the Orion, just call me Marion.

And you can call me Anna, she added, smiling.

Marion and her new friend Anna had much in common. They both had an interest in the military at an early age, and both graduated from military academies. She always enjoyed giving a tour of the huge ship to anyone who would listen.

As they continued walking from one station to the next, Anna was describing every detail of the ship to Marion. The Orion heavy cruiser is designed for both high speed and unlimited cruising radius. It measures 2,510 feet in length with a beam of 984 feet.

Wow, Anna Marion replied. You really know your stuff.

Anna laughed. Could I ask where you’re from, Marion?

Ostrava, Czech Republic. And you, Anna? Marion inquired as she thought of her home from long ago.

Sofia, Bulgaria, she replied with a sigh. I really miss it; don’t you miss home, Marion?

Home? Marion pondered as she looked out at the stars whizzing by. It’s been too long ago to remember what it was like.

And your parents, are they still living? Anna asked.

Marion hesitated to speak. No, they were both killed in the rebellions, Marion replied as the emotions began to well up inside her.

I’m so sorry, Marion, Anna said. I shouldn’t have asked. If you ever need to talk about it, I’m always here.

There’s no need, Anna, Marion assured. That was a long time ago and there’s nothing we can do to change the past.

It would soon be time to meet with the Council to begin preparing protocols for their new home. Marion said good-bye to Anna, and both agreed to meet again. As Marion sat in her quarters, she remembered the little cafes and restaurants along Stodolni Street and dancing in the discotheques. It was somewhere you could dance and drink until the morning hours. However, most of that was destroyed in the early rebellions long ago; Marion had never been back since.

Marion reached for her recorder and flipped aimlessly through the database until she came to a familiar picture, an early photo of her parents