THE KANEN EXPEDITION - PART THREE

"THE LAST DAYS"

C H A P T E R   S I X T E E N

Lesdy's blond hair gradually filled with sand as she rolled across the beach of Lake Haven. The youngster stopped occasionally to watch Lea climb the nearby trees, cheering the small Minotian as she reached the top of each. Dusk brought an even brighter hue to the already stimulating surroundings of the island. It was nearing time to return to Haven's base.

The two had become inseparable since they first met. Lesdy had never known a playmate before meeting Lea. She watched over the small creature with a parent's commitment, never allowing the frivolous being to encounter too many mishaps. To Lesdy's delight, Lea had adopted the child as an older sister, though the Minotian played guide to Haven's secrets most of the time.

Lesdy stood up and brushed the drying sand from her hair. "Lea, we have to go back now. Come on down."

"Okay, Lez-tee. I climb down right away-eeeeeee . . ." Lea failed to secure her footing as she climbed down the small tree, and fell onto the cushion of sand beneath her.

"Darn you, Lea! Are you all right?" Lesdy was used to witnessing similar falls and didn't immediately run to her aid. She discovered quickly that the Minotians were quite resilient.

"I fine, Lez-tee. How you?"

"I didn't fall from a tree, you did. I wish you'd try to be more careful, young lady. You're gonna break your neck one of these days."

"I try and be more careful. We go now. I ready."

The two began to walk across the beach towards one of the nearby entrances to the underground passages that would take them back to the colonists' base. Lesdy caught a reflection in the water, momentarily startling her. She looked over at Lea, who had stopped walking a moment earlier and was a few steps behind. Suddenly, the Minotian pointed at the sky.

"Look, Lez-tee! Another spaceship."

"Come on, Lea, let's get out of here. That doesn't look like one of our spaceships. We'd better hurry."

The warning came too late. A deafening roar filled the air above them as the alien shuttle rapidly approached. Lesdy and Lea began to run towards the hidden opening of the passageway. As they neared, the shuttle landed directly in front of them, blocking the opening.

The two stopped abruptly. They watched as the shuttle's hatch opened, followed by the appearance of a uniformed woman. After a brief look at her surroundings, the woman stepped down to the ground and addressed the two anxious children.

"Well, hello there. I hope we didn't frighten you. We're lost," the woman shrugged with a faint smile, "and saw you down here. Maybe you can help us."

"Who are you?" Lesdy asked.

"I'm sorry. Where are my manners. Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Shela. Shela Gibbons."

Shaanon's shuttle moved swiftly across the island. Having previously traveled its length four times, he had begun to lose hope. Not detecting the sound of bells only made the task of locating the 'Great Ones' all the more difficult. The scanners showed no life forms anywhere in the vicinity of Haven Lake. But perhaps that was to be expected. After all, the Minotians couldn't be detected using the Selet III scanners, either.

As he piloted the craft towards the far side of the island again, Shaanon discovered a small clearing he hadn't previously noticed. Slowing the shuttle considerably, he scanned the area exhaustively. A strong breeze shook the tree branches and momentarily cleared Shaanon's view exposing a well-hidden building.

"Gods be praised!" Shaanon shouted. "I think I've finally found something." He positioned the shuttle at station-keeping before beginning the brief decent, then activated the comm-panel.

"Shaanon to base, come in."

"Go ahead, Shaanon, we read you. Camon here."

"You won't believe it, Camon, but I believe I've finally found them. Not sure yet, but I've located a small building hidden in the trees. I'm getting ready to go down."

"Great!. Be careful in those trees, Shaanon. The shuttle is small, but not an ideal maneuvering craft for its size."

"Don't worry. There's a small clearing nearby. I'll be fine. I'll let you know what I find. Shaanon out."

As he severed communications, Shaanon's shuttle rocked abruptly. All internal power suddenly vanished. Someone or something had the small craft under their power. He desperately tried to reestablish communications with Camon but was unsuccessful. The inside of the shuttle began to vibrate violently while slowly moved upward. Shaanon opened the roof hatch so as to see what was above him as an unexpected blast from the unseen alien ship knocked him from his position, and he fell to the shuttle floor.

"Well done, Gibbons."

"Thank you, Colonel Satch. You'll want to be present when I interrogate the prisoners, I'm sure." Captain Shela Gibbons smiled, knowing the Colonel wouldn't want to miss it.

"Of course, Captain. Whenever you're ready."

"Are you satisfied now, Shela?" The Colonel grinned.

"You're damn straight I am. Not only did we get that little girl, and whatever the hell that creature is with her, but we've managed to capture their leader."

"Shaanon," the Colonel corrected.

"Yes, Shaanon," Shela agreed. "Once we get back on board the mother ship, I have plans for all three of them."

"Such as?"

"Well . . . If we're going to capture the rest of them, it'll require a little help from their leader to accomplish it. But, while we're waiting to dock with the ship, why don't we go astern and have a few words with our new friends."

The Colonel grabbed the slender woman and kissed her.

"What was that for?" Shela asked.

"The whole time while we were traveling here you hardly talked to me. I don't want you to forget how in love with you I am."

"I'm sorry, Mark. I know I've been less than social as of late, but this whole thing with these renegades has really upset me. You've been patient, and I appreciate that. We still have the whole trip back to Tanett to ourselves."

"You sure about that?"

"I'm sure."

"I'll be looking forward to it, my love."

The two embraced for a moment, then walked to the rear of the ship.

The scout vessel began its short journey back to the Colonel's larger vessel, the Incessant. Only a few hundred kilometers from Haven, two other Committee war ships concealed themselves behind an impenetrable cloak shield within the dark stars of the Deltous sector. Once reunited with the limited fleet, Colonel Satch would be ready to organize what he hoped to be a successful capture of Haven's colonists, and then destroy the planet.

The Committee's capture of Shaanon, Lesdy and Lea was an unexpected stroke of luck for them. They had only hoped to be able to survey the planet before moving in. Captain Gibbons' coy questioning of the child led to the discovery of the other colonists.

Detecting Shaanon's small shuttle on the scout ship's sensors confirmed their success - the location of those responsible for the abduction of the Laticians from Tanett-Prime. Furthermore, Lesdy's alien companion had made it clear that Haven now sheltered many undetectable beings. Additional questioning would prove interesting and most beneficial to the Committee's choice of strategy in fighting the colonists and recovering the Laticians.

"Ready to call it a day, Colonel Richardson?" Dava asked.

"Sure. Why not. There's nothing out here but sand, anyway. Hopefully, Shaanon's had better luck on the island."

"At least it couldn't be any worse than ours. Damn! They have to be out here somewhere."

"I tell you. They hide. They not like strangers," Caet reminded the two piloting the scout ship, also in search of the 'Great Ones.' "They mostly on island, anyway."

"Yes, Caet. You told us," the Colonel acknowledged. "We're just grasping at straws. You know . . . hoping we get lucky."

"Straws?" Caet questioned.

"Never mind," the Colonel and Dava replied in unison.

The shuttle's comm-panel signaled. Dava acknowledged the incoming communication with the press of a button.

"Garson here."

"Dava, this is Contanella."

"What is it, Contanella?"

There was a short pause before she continued. "We may have a problem. Katala and I have been trying to reach Shaanon for the last thirty minutes, but he doesn't respond. I'm sure he has a comm-pack with him."

"I'm sure he does, too. Tell you what. Everything's pretty quiet here so we'll head out to the island and try to locate him."

"Thanks. But there's something else," Contanella continued. "We can't find Lesdy, either. She and Lea went to the island several hours ago and haven't returned yet. Hannah and some others went to look for her but couldn't find either of them.

"Lesdy had a comm-pack with her, too. Either she's set the unit down somewhere and can't hear our attempts to reach her, or she can't answer for some other reason. There's a chance she and Lea are lost in one of the underground tunnels - without the comm-pack. A bunch of the Minotians and Laticians are organizing a search party."

"Contanella? This is Colonel Richardson. Is Katala still there with you?"

"I'm right here, Father."

"Katie, in my private shuttle there's a scanner capable of reading up to five kilometers below the surface. One of Selet III's prototypes I conveniently borrowed before leaving there. Why don't you organize a small crew and see if this new scanner will help."

"I will," Katala acknowledged.

"Signal me when you're ready to begin, and I'll give you instructions for its use."

"Okay, father. I'll get back to you as soon as we're off the ground. Katala out."

After many hours, the dozens who searched for Lesdy, Lea and Shaanon retuned to Haven's base - unsuccessful and deeply concerned. Though many of the colonists were certain that the disappearance involved the Great Ones in some manner, the Minotians convinced the majority of the colonists of the being's good will.

When morning brought the sun's first rays of light, they would continue the search. Until then, Camon, Nathon and Jantz spent the night preparing Universe II, with her more powerful scanners, for liftoff. For now, there was nothing more they could do.

SELET III

"Your news is most certainly useful, General Profis. But quite frankly, we're still uncertain of your future disposition. The Committee is an illegal organization and violates both Selet III and Forneptus IV law. Your involvement while maintaining an active role in Selet III's military labels you a criminal."

The conference room in Selet III's United Province Headquarters would not customarily be occupied so late in the evening. But after Universe II returned General Profis while en route to Haven, the General felt there was no alternative other than to organize an emergency council meeting.

The Committee would not procrastinate. If Selet III didn't act quickly, the planet would suffer the Committee's wrath with inadequate defenses. As it stood, the military was severely limited, and weaponry practically nonexistent.

"I'm aware of that, General Davis. My decision to return wasn't without thorough consideration. Nevertheless, by my standing before you now, I am demonstrating my allegiance to Selet III.

"You must realize, however," he continued, "my disposition is of no consequence if Selet III doesn't act swiftly. The Committee will be here soon, I'm sure of it. If we're unprepared, neither you nor I will be alive to discuss disciplinary actions."

General Davis turned to look through the briefing room's windows, overlooking much of the United Province's main complex. The darkened sky permitted the lighted fountain to reflect a multitude of colors against the buildings. Everything seemed at odds against the backdrop of water cascading in infinite streams. Profis' words were crushing this sense of order.

"If what you've reported is accurate, there seems little we can do. We have nothing that matches the Committee's rumored weaponry. And even if we did, our military is seriously lacking in qualified personnel to man the weapons we do have."

"We may be able to enlist the aid of others, sir."

"Who? Surely not Forneptus IV, the breeding ground of the Committee."

"No, not Forneptus IV. Even though the Committee is a separate entity from Forneptus IV's government; don't forget, not all Forneptus IV inhabitants belong to, or even support it. No. I was thinking more in the lines of those who I worked with on Tanett-Prime. Colonel Richardson and the other colonists who rescued the Laticians."

General Davis laughed. "You're not serious, are you?"

"Yes I am, General."

"Maybe you've forgotten, Profis, but Lieutenant Colonel Richardson is as much a traitor as yourself."

"I beg to differ with you, General. You discount his motives for leaving Selet III. After all, his own daughter was one of Universe's crew. The Task Force was sent to stop Universe, by any means necessary. If it were your daughter, what would you have done?"

General Davis didn't immediately answer, though the guilt of his unsympathetic attitude was evident.

"I suppose I can understand the Colonel's reluctance to serve with the Task Force on that mission. Nevertheless, how can we trust him? To whom is his allegiance, Profis?"

"Given this crisis, General, I believe the Colonel and the others who left Selet III would offer their assistance without hesitation. They only wish to remain hidden from our bureaucracy. They're not our enemies."

General Davis considered the alternatives, but found they were few. He walked across the conference room and took a seat at the table.

"Alright, Profis. We'll try it your way. But tell me something."

"Yes, General?"

"Saan. Call me Saan. We're both generals, for the god's sake."

"Okay, Saan. What is it you wish to know?"

"These colonists who've abandoned our world did so because of our race to build up it's military, did they not?"

"That's only part of it. I don't know all their reasons, but I believe their greatest fear was of the growing restrictions we were forcing upon them."

"How well do they respond to you? As a former Committee member, you were attempting to build Selet III's military much faster and stronger."

"We didn't discuss it to any lengths, Saan. They knew I was trying to help the Laticians and that's all that mattered. Now, I'm confident they will come to our aide . . . if we ask."

"Okay, so how do we ask?"

General Profis thought a moment. "They're somewhere in the Deltous Sector, I know. I'm sure they're monitoring interstellar transmissions . . . I suppose we could just send a message to them over a sub-space comm channel, then wait for a reply."

"Do it. Effective immediately, I'm suspending all charges against you regarding your involvement with the Committee. You will retain your rank as General and serve Selet III's First Office of the United Provinces. Dismissed."

"Yes sir."

The two saluted. General Profis turned on his heel, then left the conference room to begin his attempt at contacting the colonists.

C H A P T E R   S E V E N T E E N

As the last soldier exited the compound, the assigned guards hastily began with the disposal of the executed Selet III inhabitants on Tanett. The Committee reasoned that General Profis' defiant sentiments were likely to be that of the majority of Selet III members. Before leaving for Haven, General Satch ordered their termination from the Committee in a permanent manner.

Major Robert Levandi knew this would be the perfect opportunity for advancement. And it wasn't unexpected that Colonel Satch would choose him to lead the operation. After all, he had been the Colonel's aid for many years and knew how to handle the task in compliance with the colonel's wishes better than anyone else.

The destruction of Selet III would most assuredly prove profitable for the Committee. No longer would Forneptus IV be forced to concern themselves with derogatory reports filtering back to Rinoltt from overzealous Selet III Council members. The Committee could temporarily establish a satellite outpost in proximity to the planet's former position and send it's own reassuring messages back to Rinoltt - until it, too, was defeated.

The Major recognized the destruction of Selet III as the overture to Committee domination in the universe. Within a few short days, he would have his troops primed for the mission. Eight of the Committee's best warships were already undergoing refit maintenance in preparation of the assignment.

The Incessant lurked quietly in space less than two hundred thousand kilometers from Haven. Revered as the Committee's most powerful vessel, the Colonel demonstrated undeserved arrogance upon having the Incessant under his command. It was he who discovered the abandoned ship years ago on an uninhabited planet the Committee uncovered during a previous mission. Soon afterward, and without challenge, he easily assumed the position of Commander over the Committee.

Having completed docking procedures aboard their shuttle, Satch and Gibbons immediately returned to Incessant's bridge. Security officers removed Shaanon, Lesdy and Lea from the shuttle and placed them in one of the ships large holding cells to await further questioning.

"Lesdy, Lea, listen to me," Shaanon quietly addressed the two after the security officers left the cell. "You have to remain quiet. Don't answer their questions when they ask."

Lea gave a puzzled look. "Why, Shaanon?"

"Because, they've come here to take the Laticians back. But they don't know how many of us there are, or if we'll be able to stop them. We can't let them know anything about us or we won't be able to protect Haven and everybody that lives there."

"Okay, I not talk. I do what you say," Lea replied.

"Good. Now, are you two all right?"

"I'm scared, Shaanon," Lesdy said. "I wanna go home."

"I know, Lesdy. I'm scared, too. Just give me a little time to find out what's going on around here. I'll get you home soon, I promise."

Shaanon sat on the very edge of the bunk, his elbows resting on his upper thighs, allowing his arms to dangle freely. It was not the immediate situation which troubled him. Something within him was triggering flashes of memory. Bits and pieces he was unable to hang onto. He loathed himself for miscalculating the seriousness of the unrest within the hierarchy of Selett III. Hated himself even more for involving all of his friends in what seemed now like an idealistic, adolescent flight to an obscure, paradoxical concept called freedom. It was one thing to follow his own inner obsessions; quite another to involve those around him.

His mind would not relax. The unseen forces which propelled him to this destination wouldn't release its grip on his soul. He looked with tenderness touched with grief at his charges sitting quietly across the small chamber. For all his cleverness, he was at this moment unable to either defend or release them from certain death. Yet, some voice - some vague memory - kept pounding away at him with the same determination he had always felt propelling him forward.

The cell door opened abruptly and two security officers walked through, each taking a position at either side of the doorway. A moment later, Captain Gibbons entered the cell, a look of annoyance clearly evident. She walked slowly, surveying the walls as if inspecting the cell's integrity, then stoped a meter from where Shaanon sat.

"We haven't been formally introduced," the Captain began with a smile. "I'm Captain Shela Gibbons of the Forneptus IV Military Services. And you are?"

"Don't you mean, 'of the Committee?' And I believe you already know who I am. Isn't that why you brought me here?"

The Captain laughed, softly. "You're right on both counts, Captain. But tell me, who are your little friends?"

"Didn't you ask them . . . before kidnaping them?"

Captain Gibbons raised her arm in preparation to slap Shaanon, but refrained from following through.

"Dammit! Quit answering my questions with your questions."

Shaanon smiled. "Was I doing that? It's pointless for you to ask what you already know. I'm just trying to speed things up a bit. Please continue, Shela."

"You will address me as 'Captain!'"

"All right, Captain Shela."

This time, the Captain didn't halt her swing. Shaanon grabbed her arm just centimeters before her hand reached its target. The security officers promptly aimed two intimidating weapons in his direction, but Shaanon continued his grip.

Captain Gibbons looked at Lesdy and Lea, then smiled. "You'd be wise to release your grip. That is, unless you'd enjoy watching your two friends die."

Shaanon glared at the woman. Her short, black hair barely covered her ears. A lone, black earing caught his eye. He shifted his gaze slightly in an attempt to distinguish a small mechanism on one side of the earing.

A mind protector device, Shaanon thought. The Committee must already know the Latician's are on Haven.

"Well, Captain Shaanon? Are you going to release me or not?" Captain Gibbons urged.

Shaanon cautiously loosened his grip. One of the security officers lowered his weapon and walked over to Shaanon; then struck him solidly in the jaw. Lea jumped on the soldier while he was recovering his balance after the punch, and knocked him to the floor.

"Stop this at once!" Captain Gibbons ordered.

The officer retrieved his weapon and pushed its end into Lea's stomach.

"And you, you little fur ball . . . " The Captain picked Lea up off the floor and sternly placed the Minotian back in her chair. "Try that again, and I'll be using you for a dust mop."

With her pride restored, the Captain resumed the questioning.

"Now, Captain Shaanon, you will tell me how many inhabit your world."

"My world? Hardly," Shaanon said as he rubbed his jaw. "Why in the god's names would you believe I'd want to live on that ball of rock?"

The Captain raised her eyebrows at his response. "Come on, Captain, let's be truthful. We followed you back here. Don't tell me you've only stopped for a little 'R and R' after your little hijacking mission."

"That's essentially correct, Captain," Shaanon smiled. "Though, I wouldn't exactly call it resting. We needed an atmosphere to land so we could repair our engines. You captured me while I was out hunting for materials we need for the repairs.

"And, as far as the 'hijacking', we only responded to a distress call while passing by Tanett-Prime. When we arrived at the planet, it appeared deserted. You started shooting at us, so we left.

"It wasn't until the following day that we even realized that our ship was inhabited by almost two hundred alien beings. They boarded our ship without our knowledge. Apparently, Captain Gibbons, they wanted off that planet. So, your hijacking theory is quite without merit."

Captains Gibbons laughed viciously. "You must think me a fool if you actually believe I'll fall for that story."

"It's the only one I have," Shaanon stubbornly insisted.

"Well, you'd be wise to do better than that. Our scans have revealed your shelters. Obviously, you couldn't have constructed them all in the short time you've been here."

"We didn't build those shelters. What you scanned was there when we arrived. Since they were unoccupied, we borrowed them."

Shaanon continued. "Let me ask you something, Captain. For starters, where are we?"

Captain Gibbons signaled the security officers, then exited the cell. The officers followed, locking the door behind them.

"Well . . . that certainly was rude," Lesdy said. "Did they hurt you, Shaanon?"

"No, I'm all right. How about you, Lea?"

"I fine, Shaanon."

Suspecting the cell was monitored, Shaanon removed a pen and a small piece of paper from his pocket and began writing. Lesdy and Lea watched in silence. A moment later, he handed Lesdy the paper.

Lesdy, don't say anything. Just read. I have an idea to get us out of here, but I'll need your help. Nod your head if you want to help me.

Lesdy read the note while Lea looked on in confusion. The message understood, she nervously nodded and handed the note back to him. Shaanon turned the paper over and began writing instructions for the child.

HAVEN

Katala, her father, Dexon and Caet boarded the Colonel's shuttle at the first sign of sunlight, anxious to continue the search. Four of Universe II's shuttles also made preparations to join in the effort.

"Shuttle One to patrols," Katala announced over the shuttle's communications board. "We're leaving the base now. Rendezvous at Lake Haven Beach in twenty minutes. We'll be waiting. Patrols, acknowledge please." The four alternate patrol shuttles confirmed the message as the Colonel' shuttle began the ascent from Haven's base.

The small craft sped across the sky towards Lake Haven, circling the island's perimeter upon arriving, then landing on the beach. Dexon opened the hatch and jumped out onto the cool, sienna sand, Katala and Caet immediately following his lead.

"Ca-et-ie, where we start look?" Caet asked.

"Right here seems as good a place as any," Katala answered. "When the other shuttles arrive, we'll spread out and cover the whole island. You and I will be a team, okay, Caet?"

"Okay, Ca-et-ie. We make good team. We find Lesdy and Lea and Shaanon."

"I hope so," Katala sighed.

"Dexon, Katala," the Colonel called from inside the shuttle. "There's something in the brush, fifty meters due west. It's not reading as human, and Minotians don't register at all on these scanners."

Dexon and Katala looked but saw nothing.

The Colonel called out again. "They're moving closer, heading right for us."

Katala walked to the edge of the beach to get a better view. Now she could hear the snapping of branches. Someone or something was approaching, but the dense woods made it impossible to see the advancing entity.

The Colonel observed the oncomer with the shuttle's scanner a final time, then grabbed his weapon and exited the craft. He motioned for Katala to return to where he, Dexon and Caet stood. As she responded to her father, the bush directly behind her expanded, parting to allow the figure to pass through.

Katala gasped at the sight before her. The being was no less than three meters in height. Its immense frame was at once frightening, but the being made no gesture to indicate any aggressive nature. Large veinous protuberances established identical patterns along the sides of the otherwise glabrous head. The gentle, yellow eyes focused on Katala as she stood transfixed before the being. Although basically humanoid in appearance, there was no apparent indication of gender.

The being moved out from the surrounding bushes and stopped upon reaching the beach, the exotic material covering his body blending in perfectly with the surrounding flora. An enormous wooden staff pushed gently into the sand, aiding the being as he strode through the dense brush. It stopped briefly less than three meters from Katala, then moved further onto the beach towards the other colonists.

"Great One," Caet announced.

"It sure is," Dexon agreed. "Do you know him, Caet?"

"I think so. I see him before."

The being continued up the beach towards the colonists as Katala followed behind at a safe distance. After reaching the shuttle, the being stretched out its hands and bowed slightly.

"I am Scolan. I've come to warn you of the ships above this planet." The large entity spoke in low resonant tones, the pitches rising and falling with every syllable. "There are three large vessels just beyond orbital range intending to destroy this world. They have sent smaller craft to the surface and have abducted two of your comrades and a young Minotian."

"Shaanon, Lesdy . . . " Dexon said.

"And Lea," Katala added.

The Colonel addressed the being. "How do you know this? Our instruments haven't detected any ships in this sector."

"Then I assume that your instruments are inadequate." The being pointed towards the sky in a rough approximation to the location of the three Committee ships. "We have monitored all activity in this quadrant for many millennia."

"Who are . . . what is your race? The Minotians call you, 'the Great Ones.'

"We are known by many names, but you may refer to us as Ramethian."

Katala moved to her father's side and addressed the being. "Did you see what happened to our friends, Scolan?"

"I did. The two smaller individuals were abducted from this beach; the other was captured while piloting a vessel above one of our abandoned dwellings."

"The Committee's found us, Colonel," Dexon said.

"It looks that way, Dexon. And they have Shaanon, Lesdy and Lea."

"We have to warn the others, father," Katala said. "I'll call the base and let Hannah know, too."

"We're dealing with an experienced military, far superior to any Selet III has dealt with in the past. What's worse is that they've been provoked into vengence by our rescuing the Laticians."

"That's why I've come to you," Scolan said. "We must join forces against these invaders. Though we have no weaponry or battle ships, we can provide other means of assistance."

The Colonel addressed the being, "We'll need all the help we can get defending ourselves against this enemy."

"If you will follow me," Scolan offered, "I'll escort you to our abode. There's much for us to learn of each other, yet little time to do so."

C H A P T E R   E I G H T E E N

"Either they can't hear us, or they don't want to hear us," Communications Officer Donaldson informed General Profis as she turned from the comm-board. "I've tried every sub-space channel, but there's still no response."

The General sat down beside the woman. "Damn. We're running out of time."

"I'm sorry, General. I don't know what else to do. Even taking into account that our messages aren't received in the Deltous Sector for at least three hours, we still should've heard a reply by now."

"Keep trying, Donaldson," the General ordered. "Maybe they don't have sub-space capability."

"Or, General, they're no longer in the Deltous Sector."

The possibility had crossed his mind. And if that were the case, Selet III would be left alone to defend itself against the Committee.

Then abruptly, the comm-board began to emit faint traces of static. It vanished briefly, then returned with a hazy transmission of a woman's voice:

"We have received your message, Selet III. Are sending ships and troops to your aid. ETA is fifty-one hours."

Again the transmission was defeated with static before fading completely. The communications officer tried to reestablish the signal, but it had been lost.

"I guess they were listening after all, General," the officer smiled.

"Yes, Donaldson, somebody definitely was listening."

"You don't think the transmission came from Shaanon's party?"

"No, I don't." The General checked the comm-board to determine the origin of the transmission.

"For one, they didn't identify themselves. Secondly, the colonists don't have 'ships.' They have one vessel, Universe II. I was on her. And though she's a fast ship, it'll take her at least seventy-two hours to make the trip from the Deltous Sector to here at full speed."

"Then, who answered our message, General?"

"The Committee, Donaldson. The Committee."

Contanella threw her hands up in the air with disgust. No matter what she tried, the communications board wouldn't allow her to transmit anything other than static in response to the incoming messages. She had been listening to Selet III's appeal for over an hour. Not only was something preventing her from responding to the request, but she could no longer reach the Colonel's shuttle, just a few kilometers away on Haven Island.

"We've both checked this board, thoroughly, Contanella," Camon threw up his hands in frustration. "There's nothing wrong with it. The only possible explanation is that we're being jammed by an outside source."

"I'd agree with you, Camon, only . . . who?"

"Could the Minotians be using some equipment that's causing the interference?" Camon suggested.

"It's possible, but we should be able to detect it and pinpoint the source. No, I think it's not from a source on Haven."

Contanella and Camon turned from the comm-board upon hearing the Colonel's shuttle approach. After landing, Katala stepped out of the craft and met the two as they proceeded to the landing site.

"Did you receive our message?" Katala asked.

"We heard you trying to contact us, but we lost your signal after a few seconds," Contanella responded. "What's going on, Katala?"

"The Committee has captured Shaanon, Lesdy and Lea. Three of their ships are nearby, preparing to move in."

"Uh-oh," Camon uttered. "That explains the jamming."

Katala shook her head in acknowledgement. "Apparently, the Committee's cloaking abilities are superior to ours. They've been here for over a week and we never knew it."

"How do we know it now?" Contanella asked, trying to sort out the ramifications of all the news hitting her at once.

"We've met with the Great Ones. They're able to detect them with their equipment. The Committee is intending to destroy Haven. The Great Ones want to help us prevent it."

"That's not all, Katie," Camon interrupted. "We've received a message from Selet III on sub space radio. They're requesting our assistance against a hostile force, presumably, the Committee. The message came from General Profis. We tried to respond, but obviously the Committee is jamming our communications."

"And I'll bet they've interrupted that Selet III message, as well," Katala added. "The first order of business is to save ourselves and rescue Shaanon, Lesdy and Lea."

"Agreed," Contanella and Camon concurred in unison.

"My father has already begun organizing our defenses," Katala continued. Universe II is the only ship we have, so we're going to have to enhance her capabilities. The Great Ones . . . er', the Ramethianns say the can help in that regard.

"We're pretty sure Shaanon, Lesdy and Lea are together, being held on the lead ship . . . the Incessant. How we'll get them off that ship is another question. I'm open to suggestions.

"The Ramethianns will be installing some of their scanners into Universe II during the next few hours. They also believe they can improve your cloak screen and sheilding of on the ship, Conts, so I'd like you to work with them on it. By nightfall, we should be ready for launch.

"We should organize into two teams: a ground team and a mission team. Those not able to assist either of them can probably hold out in the Minotian underground tunnels, offering medical aid and whatever else might be required. As soon as you're both able, gather everyone you can find and meet the rest of us in the community shelter. The faster we move, the better our chances of surviving the Committee."

"Alright, Katala," Contanella replied. "When can we expect the Ramethianns to arrive?"

"They're on their way now."

"Katie, I'm not sure I understand. Why do the Rathians..."

"Ramethians," Katala corrected.

"Yeah, why do they want to help us?" Contanella finished.

"They've been monitoring the Committee's activities for a while, I guess. They know what they've been doing," Katala explained. And they know they're planning to attack Haven."

"Oh," Contanella acknowledged furtively, a myriad of questions still unanswered. Katala seemed so masterful at this moment, she was unable to do anything but respond to the commands. Her usual tough stance had given way under the weight of the demands of the impending situation.

"We'll learn more a little later, but right now, we have to get ready."

"You know, Katala," Camon offered, "there's no reason why we shouldn't be able to increase our convoy by employing Universe II's shuttles. If the Ramethianns are capable of strengthening her shields, then why not the smaller craft as well?"

"You're right, Camon. When they arrive, get together with them on that. They have no ships, but do have several smaller short-range craft; maybe our defenses aren't as inadequate as we first thought."

Her sleek black hull mirrored the brilliant stars of the Arion Sector as she quietly traveled through its systems. Purposely avoiding previously identified populated sectors, the probing ship traveled through the galaxy with remarkable speed, her destination forever obscure.

Throughout the journey, she had encountered every manner of anomaly; every known and unknown mystery had passed her bow; every civilization that had risen and fallen since the beginning of time were recorded on her instruments. Her crew had experienced all that the universe concealed from most others who inhabited the cosmos.

Her mission would never end. Always obtaining knowledge and collecting infinite data for her crew. From one generation to the next, she patrolled the stars with devotion and enthusiasm. For the stars would continually reveal further mysteries and secrets as time progressed; and she would willingly accept all they had to offer.

Lesdy cried. Lea occasionally accompanied her for further emphasis. The sorrowful tones reached the two security officers stationed in the hall near the cell door.

Shaanon stood guard at the door, closely observing the lock mechanism.

"A little louder, Lesdy," Shaanon instructed. "Cry louder."

Lesdy obeyed, acknowledging with increased anguish and an awkward smile. Shaanon glanced at the aft panel, checking to confirm that his jacket still covered the security camera lens. The shuffling sound of footsteps became noticeable as the security officers responded to Lesdy's cries.

The door panel slid open. As the first officer entered the cell, Lea bolted from a nearby chair and onto the man, knocking him to the floor with the impact. The weapon flew from his hand and came to rest next to Lesdy. Retrieving it, she aimed the weapon at the defeated man.

Another officer quickly followed, his weapon drawn and pointed at Lesdy. Shaanon punched the officer hard across the jaw, yanking the weapon out of his hands as he stumbled backward. Before the man could recover his balance, Shaanon guided another hard blow to the man's gut. As he fell to the floor, Shaanon rushed him and pushed the weapon against the officer's neck.

"Get up, slowly," Shaanon ordered. He glanced towards Lesdy, who still held her weapon on the other subdued security officer.

"Good work, Lesdy. You too, Lea." Shaanon motioned towards the guard lying on the floor near the child. "If that man moves as much as a millimeter, fire your weapon."

"Yes, Captain," she responded with the confidence of a well-trained soldier.

Shaanon pulled the officer up off the ground, keeping the weapon pressed firmly against his neck.

"Now it's my turn to ask the questions." He pulled the man up against the wall. "How many ships?"

The officer hesitated. Shaanon pushed the weapon harder against the man's neck.

"How many?!" Shaanon repeated.

Grimmicing, the officer finally relented. "Three."

"And their complement?" Shaanon continued.

"About thirty soldiers on each vessel."

"What is your Captain planning to do?"

The officer hesitated again, scowling at Shaanon.

"If you'd prefer to die, I'll most certainly oblige you," Shaanon offered.

"I don't know," the officer pleaded. "All I know is that we're to keep you here."

Shaanon smiled at the man. "I'm afraid I'll have to resend those orders. We have to be getting on our way."

Shaanon removed the weapon from the officer's neck. Turning it around, he quickly struck the man firmly on the back of his head and knocked him unconscious.

"You," Shaanon gestured at the other officer lying on the floor, "get undressed." He turned to Lesdy and said, "You don't have to watch this. I certainly don't want to."

Witnessing the fate of his companion, the officer quickly obeyed. Shaanon took the clothes and dressed in them. He then ordered the officer to lie on the floor next to his companion. Using belts from their uniforms, he tied their legs and hands together, behind them.

"Lea," Shaanon called, "stand by the door and listen for anyone coming."

Lea nodded, though it was difficult to observe her head moving through the thick layers of hair that covered it.

Shaanon ripped his discarded shirt and made a gag for each of the soldiers. Satisfied that they were securely restrained, he removed his jacket from the security camera, then cracked the lens with the end of his weapon.

"Let's go," he instructed Lesdy and Lea. "We've got to find a communications board so we can let everyone on Haven know where we are. Then, let's see about getting off this ship."

"I tell Caet, Shaanon," Lea announced.

"Okay, Lea, you will, but we've got to find a comm-board, first."

"Don't need board. I just tell them."

Shaanon eyed Lea, curiously. "What do you mean, 'you just told them?'"

"What? What you mean? I just tell them." Lea closed her eyes momentarily. "I tell them again."

Shaanon smiled, entertained by the Minotian's remark. "What'd they say, Lea?"

"They say they know where we are. Great Ones tell them already. They send ships to come get us."

Shaanon's smile vanished. Something about Lea's seriousness invoked trust. "You're not pretending, are you?"

"What is pretending, Shaanon?"

"You're not making this up, are you. Hannah must be right, you really can communicate with your friends, even from this distance; without a communications board." Shaanon lifted the small being off the ground and held her in his arms. "I'm sorry I ever doubted you, Lea. Now, why don't we go see if we can 'borrow' a shuttle and get out of here on our own. No use waiting around for help when we may be able to help ourselves."

Lesdy and Lea walked out of the cell, Shaanon directly behind with a weapon focused on their backs. No one questioned the three as they made their way through the corridors in search of the ship's shuttle bay.

HAVEN

Hannah allowed the beakers to cool before removing the tissue samples from within them. After several hours of preparation, the samples were now properly cultivated for placement in the analyzer for testing.

She truly didn't expect these results to vary from any of the previous testing she had performed with the Minotian samples. But the procedure helped to distract her from the distressful thoughts of Lesdy's situation. Knowing that Shaanon was with the child provided some comfort in that she may soon return safely to Haven.

"Hannah, are you all right?" Dexon asked after entering the medical center's laboratory.

"I'm fine, Dexon. I didn't hear you come in.

"I haven't been here long. I wanted to let you know that Lea has contacted her parents, and that they're all safe . . . for the moment."

"Thank goodness! Did Lea say where exactly they are?" Hannah asked.

"They're on the lead Committee vessel. They've escaped from their detention cell and are making their way towards the shuttle bay. Apparently, they've done pretty well for themselves." He hoped his words would provide some comfort.

Dexon was interrupted by the beeping of the nearby analyzer. "Another tissue sample, Hannah?"

"Yes. I know it's pointless to keep running the same test on the same tissues, but . . ."

"But you're determined to find a cure for the Minotians. No one can fault you for that." The doctor walked over to the analyzer and removed the result print-out sheet. He studied it briefly.

"More of the same. Damn, if there were only one . . ." Dexon suppressed a smile. "Hannah, what's this?" He handed the print out to the woman.

"What? The L-Tyrosine level?" Hannah asked.

"Yes. Why is it so low?"

"It's within normal limits, as normal as I've seen with all the other Minotian samples I've run."

"Yes, but if they're all suffering from the same condition, how can you determine if this is within their normal limits?" Dexon asked.

"You're right, of course. I've been so preoccupied with worrying about Lesdy, I didn't even consider that."

Dexon smiled widely. "Let's go round up a few Minotians and get some urine samples for testing. If their Tyrosine level is low, you know where it's all going."

"Right out the bottom end," Hannah agreed. "We have plenty of the amino acid on hand, too. Dexon, I think we're onto something here."

"You betcha we're onto something. Like, maybe a cure for our little friends."

C H A P T E R   N I N E T E E N

Major Levandi paced anxiously in the front of the conference room while waiting for the Committee soldiers to seat themselves. The attack on Selet III was to be his first command, and he wanted nothing short of perfection during each phase of the mission. That many of the soldiers didn't share his eagerness was of major concern to him.

Officer Timothy Powers navigated his way through the two dozen soldiers surrounding the center platform and approached the Major. A drawn look blanketed his face.

"Sir, all are accounted for."

"Good." Major Levandi studied the Officer. "Something bothering you, Powers?"

"No sir, nothing."

"You look distressed. You wouldn't happen to be opposed to our mission, would you?" the Major probed.

"No sir. I understand the necessity of suppressing Selet III." The Officer paused. "I would prefer a less violent means; but, orders are orders."

"That's right, Powers. I have mine and you have yours. However, it's not difficult to assess the attitude of the troops. Many of you have developed friendships with the Selet III Committee members that you were later ordered to annihilate, along with those still on their planet. I can certainly understand why you'd be less than thrilled with those orders.

"I, too, had friends on Selet III. But what I interpreted as friendship was nothing short of subterfuge. Traitors. Their General Profis being a serious example of the treachery of those we invited into membership . . . those whom we trusted and called our allies and brothers.

"They don't deserve leniency. They who swore by oath to uphold the Committee unto death have now done so, in a manner of speaking. We'll therefore carry out what was promised should their allegiance be broken. Conquer their home world."

His final words were spoken triumphantly. Resolutely. They were meant to capture the imagination of the soldier facing him, infecting him with its ultimate climax. Victory over the whimpering, wearisome fools who stood in the way of the future. A future built on the strength of will. The power of the collective brilliance nurtured by his comrads. It would put an end to any threat which might appear. They would be invincible to any enemy which might seek to overpower them. The thoughts exhilerated the major as he watched Officer Powers carefully weigh his words.

"I believe many among the troops agree with that view, sir. But my apprehension is based on the fact that I was born on Selet III. My parents still live there."

"I see, Powers." The Major looked away, attempting to conceal his momentary compassion. "I'm sorry, I truly am, but the mission must be carried out. As you stated, 'orders are orders.'"

"I understand, sir. With your permission, I'll call the meeting to order now."

The major put his hand on the officer's shoulder, offering an understanding smile of strength.

"Thank you, Officer Powers. I'm ready to begin."

With the soldiers now quieted, Major Levandi briefed the troops for the subsequent mission to Selet III. The next morning, the fleet completed preparations, and eight Committee warships discreetly left Tanett's orbit, on course for Selet III.

SELET III

"Dammit! If your guess is correct, David, we have slightly more than two days to prepare for war," General Davis exclaimed.

"I believe I'm right, Saan," General Profis leaned back wearily in a side chair as he affirmed the nightmare unfolding. "Universe II simply isn't fast enough to travel here in fifty-one hours, as the transmission stated. The Committee's base on Tanett is at least seven days away in our fastest ships. Assuming their warships are at least twice as fast as ours, that still doesn't give us much time."

General Davis fell into the chair behind the desk in his office. He stabbed at the intercom button before him.

"Donaldson, report to my office."

"Officer Donaldson is still monitoring subspace transmissions from the Deltous Sector. There's a chance they may have heard our distress call but are unable to respond. They may be having their own problems with the Committee right now. And if that's the case, no doubt all transmissions are being jammed or otherwise interfered with."

Communications Officer Donaldson entered the room abruptly.

"Sirs, I've just received this message from Tanett!"

The young officer handed the transmission printout to General Profis who studied it thoroughly.

"What is it, David?" General Davis asked.

"Interesting, Saan, if it's reliable. It looks like you're right. Apparently, a dissatisfied Committee officer is trying to warn us about an attack. The officer has family on Selet III."

General Profis handed the printout to General Davis.

SELET III: BE WARNED. THE COMMITTEE IS ABOUT TO LAUNCH AN ATTACK AGAINST YOU. YOU WILL NOT SURVIVE IT. YOUR ONLY HOPE IS TO EVACUATE AS MANY AS POSSIBLE IMMEDIATELY.

THIS WARNING COMES IN HOPES THAT MY PARENTS MAY BE ALERTED AND SAVED. THEY ARE EDUCATORS AT TOMAH ACADEMY. THE ANNOUNCEMENT, "CODE ONE-ZERO-ONE," TO THE FACULTY WILL ACKNOWLEDGE THIS SITUATION TO THEM.

THE COMMITTEE WILL ARRIVE IN LESS THAN SEVENTY-TWO HOURS ACCORDING TO MY INFORMATION. DO NOT DELAY OR NONE SHALL SURVIVE.

General Davis looked up from the printout.

"It's a trick. Broadcasting this to the Academy will no doubt alert someone, but for what means?"

"You may be right, Saan. It's a tough call, alright," Profis agreed, "but we can start by checking the faculty members, one by one."

"We have nothing to lose," General Davis turned his gaze to his aide. "Donaldson, alert a squad to check it out. Anyone with children off-planet, bring them in. Don't, I repeat, do not announce the 'Code One-Zero-One' message."

"Understood, sir. I'll get on it immediately," she complied.

Several hours later, finding no one satisfying the General's description among the Tomah Academy faculty, the squad returned alone. And since there was no way to either confirm nor disclaim the transmitted warning, General Davis ordered emergencey evacuation of the six hundred and forty-five thousand Selet III colonists to begin immediately.

Hundreds of military, commercial and private space vehicles hastened to prepare for departure, yet only two-thirds of these ships were space worthy. Many inhabitants would be left behind to suffer the fate of Selet III.

Shaanon disconnected the last of the communication terminal wiring harnesses before escorting Lesdy and Lea into the deserted shuttle bay aboard Incessant. The long trek through the adversary's ship in search of an escape vessel had thus far been met without incident; however, their luck would not last if they delayed their escape any longer.

After directing Lesdy and Lea towards a nearby shuttle and instructing them to strap in, Shaanon programmed the automatic piloting controls for their return to Haven. When the adjustments were completed, he stepped outside the craft to program the auxiliary automatic pilot controls in the same manner, then activated the shuttle bay doors.

Lea spotted the intruder first and tugged at Lesdy's arm to alert her. The two realized that from Shaanon's vantage point, he couldn't have noticed the guard enter the shuttle bay. He would be discovered quickly.

"Who are you?" The guard questioned upon discovering Shaanon. "What are you doing?"

The stolen Committee uniform momentarily concealed Shaanon's identity.

"Following orders," Shaanon replied, startled by the man's silent approach.

"Who's orders? I wasn't notified of any shuttle activity this evening."

Shaanon smiled. "They don't tell us anything around here, do they? Hold on a minute . . . I have written orders somewhere."

Innocently inspecting his pockets, Shaanon searched for the orders he didn't carry.

"Ahh, I know . . . the shuttle. Must have laid them down when I was cleaning her out."

Shaanon hurried to the shuttle, hoping the guard wouldn't follow too closely. He leaned his head inside and instructed Lesdy to remain quiet. The guard approached, his weapon now drawn.

"Who's in that shuttle, soldier?" he asked, prepared to search the craft.

"I didn't see anyone," Shaanon replied. He pointed toward the bay door control panel. "There they are, officer. Should have remembered."

The two walked over to the control panel.

"Here we are," Shaanon smiled, then turned abruptly, landing a precise hit to the guard's jaw.

The man fell backward, lying still upon hitting the floor. Shaanon immediately turned back to the panel and pressed the 'Open' button on the bay door panel. The doors expanded at an agonizingly slow pace. Searching the panel's controls, he then engaged the preset coordinates for the shuttle's escape route to Haven.

The sound of footsteps echoed nearby. Shaanon turned just in time to see the four guards now entering the shuttle bay. He glanced towards the shuttle and realized he wouldn't have time to board from this distance before the guards could prevent it. Furiously, he pressed the 'launch' button. A smile came to his lips for Lesdy as she peered through the shuttle's starboard viewport.

The small vessel left the shuttle bay swiftly, then raced homeward towards Haven, Lesdy and Lea safely aboard. Shaanon watched as it vanished into the blackness outside the Incessant, grateful the two would soon be home.

The force of the advancing guard's weapon knocked Shaanon to the floor. Clutching at the painful pounding in his chest, he labored to catch his breath. He could hear voices nearby talking about him, but his eyes refused to focus on those who spoke. The pain grew stronger. The voices were now merging and echoing from all directions. He was going to die.

The image of a young woman appeared before him. But as hard as he tried to recognize her, his eyes refused to allow it. A moment later, the image began to clear.

"Katala? Is that you?" Shaanon moaned. "I love you, Katie. I do. Take care of . . . "

HAVEN

Darkness shrouded the planet's surface. Haven was silent except for the sounds of an occasional shuttle thruster. Most of the colonists were now gathered within the large conference shelter, awaiting final instructions for their imminent encounter with the Committee.

Camon guided a peculiar looking vessel into the landing area just outside the colony base, while Edwin stood at the center of the landing zone, directing Scolan's final approach. Canton, Tonath, Denlar, Caet, Contanella and Jantz assisted four of the Ramethians in completing the modifications each of Universe II's shuttles would require before confronting the Committee. Although the shuttles' outward appearance looked to be no match for the aggressive warships they would soon be challenging, Ramethian technology provided overwhelming enhancements to their original defensive and offensive capabilities.

Katala sat alone on a large rock behind the conference shelter, looking up at the darkened sky. She wanted a moment to herself before facing the crowd now gathered inside.

"Hello, Katala," Tana greeted as she approached. "I hope I'm not disturbing you."

"Not at all, Tana. I was just waiting for everyone to gather before going in."

Tana walked over to a nearby boulder half buried in Haven's rich earth and sat down across from Katala.

"I imagine you must be pretty worried about Shaanon. From what little I know of him, he seems to be quite capable of handling himself against some pretty strong odds."

"I'm sure he's alright," Katala tried to reassure herself. "But it's not only him, it's also Lesdy and Lea. I'm afraid we won't fare well against the Committee. Universe II is a powerful ship, but they have more warships . . . I don't know."

"Well, I do," Tana said. "I know that you're a determined commander and you're not going to allow the Committee to succeed."

"I wish I had your confidence, Tana. I am determined, but we're facing a powerful adversary. They're responsible for a lot of destruction across the galaxy.

"My father believes they destroyed the Task Force that Canton discovered on his way to Forneptus IV a few months ago. Some of those ships had the strongest defensive capabilities Selet III has ever manufactured. Certainly much stronger than our small shuttles."

"Yes," Tana agreed, "but that was before the Ramethians modified them." Tana looked up, distracted by a flashing light approaching them from the sky.

"Look, Katala . . . what's that?"

Katala quickly rose from her seat. "It's a Committee shuttle! Hurry, let's alert the others!"

The two ran to the front of the shelter, almost knocking down Caet and Ret as they approached the doorway.

"Ca-et-tie, Lea and Lesdy are home," Caet announced.

"Wh-what? You mean they're on that Committee shuttle?"

"YES, KATALA," Capricia confirmed as she exited the shelter. "CAET HAS JUST RECEIVED A MESSAGE FROM LEA, I AM TOLD. HOWEVER, SHAANON IS NOT WITH THEM. WE SHALL FIND OUT MORE FROM LESDY."

"Oh," Katala sighed. "Alright, let's be careful, though. The Committee may be monitoring the craft; they may have even boody-trapped it, so let's get Lesdy and Lea out quick."

Before Katala and the other colonists reached the now landed shuttle, Lesdy and Lea had already exited the craft and were running towards the shelter. Hannah hurried to meet her daughter, embracing both her and Lea as they met.

"You two have had me worried to death," Hannah cried with delight. "Are you all right?"

"Yes, mother, we're okay," Lesdy assured. "Shaanon got caught by the guards, though. He's still on the Committee ship."

"Shaanon rescue us," Lea explained. "He brave man."

The rest of the colonists gathered around the three. Katala gave Lesdy and Lea a hug.

"Do you know if Shaanon's hurt?" Katala asked.

"We didn't see what happened after the guards came," Lesdy explained. "Shaanon pressed a button on a control panel, and then the shuttle took off from the ship real fast. He didn't have time to get on before we left. Katala, we have to save him."

"We're going to, Lesdy. You can count on it! But right now, you and Lea come with me to the medical shelter and let Doctor Kandell make sure you're all right."

"Katala!?" Lesdy protested.

"That's an order, miss. Now come on, both of you."

Captain Gibbons followed Colonel Satch to the bridge of the Incessant. The Colonel walked over to the communications officer and instructed him to contact the other three Committee warships.

"This is Colonel Satch aboard Incessant. We're leaving the Deltous sector, immediately. You will carry on with the destruction of the colonists planet as soon as you've recaptured the Laticians."

Captain Gibbons raised her hand in protest. "What the hell are you doing, Mark? Why are we leaving?"

"Stand by," the Colonel instructed the other warships. "Listen, Shela. We've got their commander . . . Shaanon. Isn't that what you wanted?"

"Yes. But, why aren't we going to stick around to help finish off the rest of those rebels?" the Captain demanded.

"We don't need to. They're no match for these ships, and I want to get back to Tanett before Levandi sets off for Selet III. Besides, I want to keep Shaanon as far away as possible from the other colonists."

"Dammit, Mark, you're doing it again!"

"Doing what again, Shela?"

"Running. You destroyed that Selet III Task Force and ran. Hell, who knows what we could have found in the remains of those ships."

"Not much, I'm sure," Colonel Satch laughed. "Listen, Shela, after our trip to Selet III, we'll come right back out here and investigate the remains. We'll be back within the week."

"Alright, Mark. I can wait one week, but no more."

"Shela, it doesn't look good for a Captain to order her commanding officer around. Why don't you cool it a bit."

"Sorry, Colonel. I wasn't thinking. Its just . . . you know how much this mission means to me. Those colonists made a fool of me, and I want my revenge."

"You've got it, Captain. Shaanon is in our maximum security cell, barely alive. Now, let some of the others share in the revenge, too."

"You're right. Guess I can't keep all the enjoyment to myself."

The Colonel smiled. "Now you're talking, Captain. Share and share alike. And, the sooner we get out of here, the sooner we'll be back. You ready to leave?"

"Yes. I'll give orders for our return, immediately. You'd better get back on the comm with the other ships."

"Yes ma'am," the Colonel laughed.

A few minutes later, the Incessant broke orbit from Haven and began its journey back to Tanett, where they would join Major Levandi's troops.

C H A P T E R   T W E N T Y

The large probe ship brought her engines to a full stop in order to examine the peculiar debris crossing her bow. Extending the ship's robot arm, she carefully retrieved a large sampling of the fragments and brought them on board. The technicians immediately began their investigation to determine the origin of the debris, recording every detail into the ship's computers.

The skilled curators concluded that their discovery had come from a region of space encountered nearly thirty years earlier. Maps were examined and revealed a black hole at the border of their present location in the Raalson Sector.

Navigation teams considered a course to lead them within five hundred kilometers of the ruptured plane of space. Upon reaching her destination, the probe ship would begin her customary examination, learning all she could discover of the dark void and the debris which presumably emerged from within. Until they could be certain, their findings were classified as planetary remains.

SELET III

"Sarrah, you have to move more quickly! We have only hours before the attack. Don't worry about what we can't take on board, just get the children together and let's go!"

Kaameron hurried to prepare his family's shuttle for space travel before the Committee would reach Selet III, fear intensifying as the time swiftly approached. He, and his wife and three children, were among the more fortunate of the Selet III colonists who owned a private space vessel in which to hopefully escape the attack.

"I'm trying to hurry, Kaameron! We're going to need provisions, aren't we? Do you know how long we'll be in space? Won't we need to eat?" Sarrah objected.

"I'm sorry, dear, you're right. You gather what you think we'll need," Kaameron agreed. "But hurry. I'll get the children securely on board."

"I love you, Kaameron. I love you so very much."

"I love you, too, Sarrah." Kaameron paused to embraced his wife. "We'll be okay once we break Selet III's orbit and can set a course back to Rinoltt. We shouldn't be in space for more than a month, you'll see."

Larnes, the youngest of the three children, tugged at his father's shirt.

"Father," the nine-year-old boy interrupted, "I can't find Zeok. He's gone!" The child was frantic, having unsuccessfully searched the home for his pet.

"I'll find him, Larnes," Kaameron assured his son. "You go join your sisters on the ship. Make sure they're strapped in, then get yourself strapped in. I'm putting you in charge of passenger safety."

"Yes sir," the boy acknowledged with a smile, then hurried onto the shuttle.

Sarrah continued gathering supplies she thought would be needed for their trip while Kaameron completed the shuttle's fueling. Glancing around the area, they noticed dozens of colonists scrambling to secure their own shuttles, or begging for transport on a neighbor's vessel.

Selet III had never before been faced with the prospect of an aggressive action against it. There had only been a few casual drills to prepare the colonists for what they were now confronting. Planetary defenses were capable of resisting an enemy assault of average magnitude, but the Committee was not an average aggresser. Their weapons technology far surpassed anything Selet III was prepared to defend against.

Kaameron disconnected the fueling lines from the shuttle once the ship could hold no more. As he turned off the main valve, the pumps quieted, allowing the siren to be heard.

"Oh, no!" Sarrah panicked as she entered the shuttle's docking bay outside the home.

"Let's go," Kaameron ordered.

The siren was sounded when the Committee first appeared on Selet III's long-range scanners. Depending on the speed at which the warships were approaching, a maximum of twenty minutes remained before they would be close enough to begin an attack.

Kaameron and Sarrah hurried aboard their shuttle. The vessel launched seconds later, rapidly ascending through Selet III's atmosphere.

"Are you picking up any warships on the scanners, Sarrah?" Kaameron asked his wife.

"Nothing," Sarrah reported from the shuttle's navigation console. "I'm only reading a few of our own ships as they leave the planet. How do we know which direction the Committee will be coming from?"

"Planetary sensors were focused in the direction of Forneptus IV. We can only assume the warships are coming somewhere from that direction. We'll set course for Rinoltt as soon as we leave Selet III's atmosphere. That'll take us in the opposite direction, anyway."

Sarrah suddenly grasped the navigation console firmly, switching the science scanner to focus on the object now displayed on the screen.

"What is it, Sarrah?" Kaameron asked.

"A proton torpedo, coming right at us!"

A moment later, the small ship exploded in a ball of flames, killing all aboard instantly. Not having yet left Selet III's gravitational pull, the incinerated remains fell back to the planet's surface.

Zeok scurried through the empty house, searching anxiously for his owner. Finding no one at home, the small animal curled up on a rug and waited for Larnes to return.

"Condition Red," General Profis yelled into the United Provinces' broadcast systems board. "We're under attack!"

Soldiers hurried to their assigned defense posts to begin discharging Selet III's modest missile assault against the onslaught of Committee warships. Nearly one hundred of the planet's combat craft ascended towards the enemy force.

"General Profis, are you ready?" General Davis asked.

"Ready for what, sir? Our destruction?"

General Davis smiled. "Our salvation, David."

"I don't understand."

"There's an escape vessel prepared for us. Are you coming with me?"

General Profis returned a bewildered look. "Surely you're not deserting the colonists, Davis?"

"Of course not." General Davis pointed towards the office window. "Look outside. Do you see all those ships leaving Selet III? Where do you suppose they'll go?"

"I'm . . . not sure," General Profis admitted.

"I doubt they know, either, David. But, they'll need leadership. Someone to guide them to a safe haven. We can't forsake those colonists who escape the attack. And besides, what good will it do for us to die under the Committee's attack?"

General Profis considered the argument for a moment. "You go, General. I'll stay with the colonists who are left behind. Suppose the Committee doesn't destroy the entire planet. Those still here will need leadership as well."

"Don't be a fool, Profis. The Committee isn't about to purposely leave any survivors. That's not their style. Plain and simple - if you stay here, you'll die here."

"I'll take my chances, General."

Davis glared at the man, then turned abruptly and left the room.

Within an hour, the Committee had launched a full scale assault on Selet III. As many colonists as were able fled to underground shelters while the bombing accelerated on the surface. Unfortunately, the majority of shelters provided ineffectual protection against the massive power of the warships.

General Profis remained in a shelter buried deep beneath the United Provinces building, which momemtarily maintained a buffer against the bombing. He and seven others remained hidden while the planet shook around them. But it soon became apparent that there would be no chance of surviving the assault - no matter how well protected. The Committee warships would soon obliterate the entire planet.

"General?" A young, female officer looked at General Profis with hope in her eyes, expecting a promise of assurance.

"I wish I had some words of encouragement . . . some image of hope to share with you, Officer Tapen," the General offered, grabbing the edge of a nearby support beam as the floor shook violently beneath them. "I'm sorry, but I don't. I'm afraid we don't have much time left."

"But General," Officer Tapen urged, "there's the emergency escape shuttles, still kept in the old hangers within the next chamber."

The General smiled at the woman and closed his eyes for a moment. "We'd at least stand a chance, wouldn't we, Tapen?"

"Yes sir."

"How many shuttles are there?"

"If I remember correctly, General, there should be two."

General Profis looked around the shelter. "That's four of us per shuttle. Okay, Tapen. You and I will command the shuttles.

Quickly mapping an effective escape route, the eight remaining colonists proceeded to the adjoining underground chamber. Two shuttles rested quietly in their docking bay, sufficiently fueled and ready for use.

General Profis boarded the closer ship, along with three of the colonist. After confirming satisfactory radio transmission with Officer Tapen aboard the sister craft, both shuttles powered up and began the assent to the planets surface, then into the dark sky above Selet III.

The ships safely left the confines of the planet unseen by Committee warships. Once reaching a safe distance, the shuttles rendezvoused to discuss final destinations. The surviving Selett III colonists were in complete agreement. The only choice would be to return to their home world of Rinoltt. General Profis stood firm, prefering instead to travel to the Deltous sector to search for, and hopefully join, the Haven colonist.

Removing some of the non-essential equipment from the shuttle commanded by Officer Tapen created room for two others to occupy the ship.

"General Profis, I'd like to go with you to the Deltous sector, if you'll allow me, sir," Officer Tapen requested. "Lieutenant Reeves is capable of piloting this shuttle back to Rinoltt."

"Alright, Tapen, you're with me," General Profis agreed. "But, do you know why I'm heading to the Deltous sector?"

"Yes sir, I believe so. A group of Selet III Academy graduates are believed to have established a colony world in the Deltous sector. I know some of them."

"Come aboard, Tapen, and I'll tell you what I know of these Academy graduates."

After exchanging personnel, the shuttles parted and began their respective missions. As General Profis set new coordinates into the navigation console, the interior of the shuttle was suddenly showered in bright light. Selet III shattered in a furious explosion outside the shuttle's view port. Even from their great distance, the force could be felt as it lightly rocked the vessel.

Officer Tapen exchanged a mournful look with the General.

"There must be some way of stopping the Committee," the young officer said, softly.

"Officer Tapen . . . "

"Lynn," the girl offered.

"Lynn . . . call me, David." Profis loosened his constricting jacket, sentimentally toying with the gold buttons as he slowly pulled them free. "With Selet III's government and military officially lost, I guess our ranks mean little now."

"I suppose you're right, David." The familiarity choked her, and she absent-mindedly pulled at the buttons on her own jacket.

"Let me fill you in on what I know of those in the Deltous sector. Your information is correct - there are many Academy graduates who have colonized a planet in that sector. I haven't been there, but I've met with them on the planet Tanett-Prime."

The General continued, explaining his involvement in rescuing the Laticians. He expressed hope that the Haven colonists might be able to assist in putting an end to the Committee's reign of terror in the galaxy. If not, at least their world was presumably hidden from the Committee and they would be safe there. Though, he didn't know if it would even be possible for him to locate the cloaked planet. He would have to try broadcasting a message over a broad range of communication channels after entering the Deltous sector, hoping the colonists would be monitoring. General Profis had been invited to their world once before; would they now decline his welcome under such critical circumstances?

"I know Katala Richardson," Lynn replied. "We were rather close at one time, a few years back. It would be great to see her again."

"She's quite a soldier," the General added, "considering she's never been part of the military. Her father, though, served with me for many years. He's a good man."

"Do you have any ideas as to where their planet is located?"

"Maybe. It should be somewhere in the vicinity of Kanen-5. But Kanen-5 no longer exists, so our planetary references will be missing. If we can locate the star Kanen, we'll have a clearer picture of the sector."

Lynn glanced at the star map. "We should be entering the Deltous sector in less than a week. Let's just pray no Committee ships wander out this way during that time."

The shuttle sped quietly through space, headed towards the red star, Kanen. Behind in the distance, the fragmented remains of Selet III burned brightly against the black background of space; beckoning the last days of a vision that had expired.

Colonel Satch pounded his fist against the back of the command chair. The forward view screen was still illuminated by Selet III's distant distruction.

"Dammit! When I get a hold of Levandi, I'll have his ass! He's blatantly ignored the orders I sent advising him to wait for my arrival before attacking."

"Colonel, the Major still doesn't respond to our transmissions," the communications officer reported after making several more attempts to contact Major Levandi's squadron of warships. "The channel is clear, sir, but he doesn't acknowledge."

"Engine room," the Colonel called. "Give me everything you've got."

"Colonel, Levandi is just following your orders. You can't take for granted he expected you to rescind them," Captain Gibbons argued. "It could just be a communications screw up for that matter."

"You just don't take things like this for granted, Captain. I know what he's done; Levandi probably figured I'd hurry and return to Tanett so that I could command the mission. He didn't want to lose his command, so he hurried to Selet III before I'd ever have a chance to join him."

"Well, Colonel," Captain Gibbons mouth curled up into a wry smile, "if that's the case, it looks like he's succeeded."

The Incessant raced towards the area where the major's warships had annihilated the peaceful planet of Selet III. The communications officer continued attempts to contact the Major, while Colonel Satch decided on a disciplinary course of action to take once they reached the vicinity.

"I have him, Colonel," the science officer announced as she looked up from her scanners. "They're en route to Tanett."

"Good work, Collins," the Colonel responded favorably. "Keep tracking them." He turned to the communications officer. "Any response yet?"

"No sir, they still don't answer."

"Fine. If Levandi wants to play games, then he'll suffer the consequences. Cloak us, and prime the weapons," the Colonel ordered.

Within minutes, Incessant - hidden behind the ships invisibility screen, and with weapons armed and ready - quickly moved to within weapons range of the renegade Committee warships.

"Fire everything we've got," Colonel Satch commanded.

"Mark! Are you crazy!?" Captain Gibbons protested, bolting forward in her seat. "There's eight ships out there!"

The Colonel ignored the Captain's disapproval and ordered a full barrage of photon torpedoes directed at Major Levandi's ship. Once launched, he ordered the helm officer to reverse course at full speed while the torpedoes traveled to their destination.

Five of the Committee warships in close proximity to the Major's vessel suffered extensive damage when the torpedoes met their target moments after leaving Incessant. The explosion was fierce. The Major's ship was lost before they realized they were under attack.

It was a nervous science officer aboard Incessant who announced the torpedoes' success after scanning the area, now many thousands of kilometers behind them. A counter attack was impossible since the Incessant was never detected by the Major's squad of warships.

"Maximum speed back to the Deltous sector," Colonel Satch ordered. So long, Major, the Colonel laughed to himself.

C H A P T E R   T W E N T Y - O N E

Nathon opened the comm-channel from Engineering to the bridge after the last of Universe II's thrusters had been powered up for launch.

"Bridge, all engines now on-line. We're ready for lift-off," the engineer informed the ship's commander.

"Stand by, Engineering," Katala answered over the comm.

A few moments of silence elapsed before Katala's voice returned on the engineer's comm-board, as well as every other ship's speaker.

"Condition alert!" An urgency in Katala's voice summoned Jantz and Camon to their brothers' side at the comm-board.

"All hands . . . battlestations! Prepare for immediate launch."

A brigade of Committee fighter shuttles had been detected now entering Haven's orbit, en route to the colonist's base. The small compliment of colonist defense shuttles promptly lifted off to intercede before the Committee ships could advance any further.

It seemed to Katala that the Committee was attempting to take prisoners instead of simply choosing to annihilate Haven altogether. She surmised they were after the recapture of the Laticians, most of whom were now serving as part of Haven's defense fleet.

Considering Lesdy and Lea's report regarding their and Shaanon's confinement aboard one of the Committee's larger vessels, Katala was reasonably sure Shaanon was not aboard any of the smaller fighter shuttles now approaching. Colonel Richardson volunteered to lead a diversionary unit away from the Committee's two remaining, larger warships, allowing Universe II an attempt at boarding them in search of Shaanon.

Eight of the colonists shuttles, aided by enhancements provided by the Ramethians, were apparently unseen and undetected by the Committee fighters. The concealed vessels advanced to a position behind the approaching Committee shuttles, waiting for a favorable situation to begin their rear assault.

Six Committee fighter shuttles moved into position, forming a barrier between Haven, and their nearby warships. Two of the colony ships moved towards the barrier, firing heavily at the six ships as they approached. As they completed the first pass, their weapons appeared to have had no effect against the Committee fighters. Likewise, the returned assault produced no damage to the colony vessels.

Colonel Richardson's team moved in on the fighter shuttles, each ship firing unrelentlessly as it passed by. Three of the six fighters were destroyed in the first attack, lighting up the sky as each exploded.

"Nice shooting, everyone," Colonel Richardson complemented his squadron over the comm. "Three down, three to go."

Each of the shuttles in the Colonel's unit was equipped with weapons designed by the Ramethians. As the Ramethian's had explained, the weapons were simply 'enhancements to their existing technology.' What they failed to mention was that these weapons had now tripled in their effectiveness.

"Let's double back and get the other three. I'll lead," the Colonel directed.

Once again the Colonel's unit approached, firing intensely upon the three remaining fighter ships. One of the fighters managed a well-aimed torpedo against the colony assault, and Colonel Richardson's shuttle was heavily damaged.

Canton Boyds, who piloted one of the attacking colony shuttles, saw smoke pouring from the Colonel's wounded vessel and knew it was about to explode.

"Colonel Richardson," Canton called over the comm, "are you all right?"

There was no reply. A jolt at the rear of Canton's shuttle redirected his attention to the fighters. He quickly maneuvered the small ship to evade the attacking Committee fleet, watching nervously as they scarcely missed their target. While continuing to monitor the three fighters, he suddenly realized they were regrouping and closing in on the Colonel.

"Colonel!" Canton yelled at the communication's board. "Can you hear me?"

Suddenly, Dava's shuttle appeared on Canton's monitor, heading on a course directly between the attacking fighters and the Colonel's fractured shuttle. Canton engaged his forward thrusters and quickly set a course to join Dava's attempt at shielding the Colonel's vessel.

"He's alive, Canton," Dava announced over the comm. "I'm picking up faint life signs from his ship. I'll try to preoccupy the fighters while you see if you can tow him out of there."

"I'm on my way," Canton acknowledged.

Dava fired furiously at the three Committee fighters as he approached. A precisely directed blast sent one of the fighters into its accomplice, causing both to violently erupt as they collided.

"Wow, Dava!" Canton shouted. "Where'd you learn to shoot like that?"

"A lucky shot, Canton. Now let's see if I can scare this last fighter into retreat."

But the lone, Committee fighter pilot was persistent, if not significantly clever. Instead of retreating, the fighter increased its speed towards the Colonel's shuttle. Dava moved quickly to pursue the assailant, reloading the shuttle's weapon banks as he gave chase.

Canton reached the Colonel's disabled craft and connected a towing tracer to its bow.

"Hang in there, Colonel," Boyds mumbled to himself. "We'll get you outta here."

With the tracer intact, Canton set a course back to Haven. As he implemented the course, the sole Committee fighter maneuvered itself in his path. The only way pass the fighter was to engage it in battle; and the power consumption required to tow the Colonel's ship left little for his weapon systems.

"Okay, Dava . . . where are you, pal?" Canton questioned nervously into the comm.

But before Dava could respond, the Committee fighter suddenly disintegrated before him in a powerful blast.

"Universe II, at your service," Jantz announced over Dava and Canton's comm.

"And in the nick of time," Canton sighed. "Thank you Jantz."

"Glad to be of service, fellas," Jantz laughed. "You've got a clear path back to Haven, Canton. We'll see you there as soon as we recover Shaanon."

Universe II continued onward towards the Committee warships, while Dava escorted Canton back to Haven - Colonel Richardson's shuttle in tow.

"Canton? Is that you?" the Colonel's voice mumbled through Canton's comm.

"Colonel! Are you all right?" Canton asked.

"Not really, but I'll survive." It was the last word Canton heard from the Colonel before his shuttle exploded.

Two Committee fighters suddenly materialized on Canton and Dava's monitors, having come out of hiding under their cloaking screens.

"Dammit!" Dava shouted. "Where the hell did they come from!"

Before they knew it, Canton and Dava were again engaged in battle. The four ships struggled for several minutes before a blast from Dava's shuttle terminated one of the aggressive ships.

"What happened to our back-up team?" Dava wondered as the battle continued. "Why haven't they come to our aid?"

"I don't know." Canton answered.

The other concealed colony vessels were nowhere to be found. No one realized that they had been captured by the Committee warships' tracter beam while they were moving into position. Their invisibility made it easy for the warships to hide the abduction. And since he colonists' cloaking screens proved only moderately effective against Committee scanners, they were in no danger of a surprise attack.

Canton fired repeatidly at the remaining fighter as Dava hurried to recharge his shuttles' weapons' banks.

"Hurry, Dava . . . I can't fend off this fighter much . . ."

It was too late. Canton watched as Dava's shuttle burst into flames as a result of the fighter's heavy return artillery barrage. "You bastard!" Canton yelled.

Now alone, Canton focused on avenging his fallen comrades. He powered up all the weapons banks the shuttle could produce, then plotted a course directly at the fighter.

"Get ready, pal . . . I'm gonna cram this ship right down your throat!"

The single remaining colony shuttle began firing abusively on the fighter.

"Take that, you son of a bitch!"

Its shielding almost depleted, one hard, final blast from Canton's shuttle rendered the fighter ineffective. A moment later, it exploded.

Canton sat motionless among the stars. Having begun the encounter with six other colony vessels, he was returning to Haven, alone. He grieved with thoughts of those lost at the hands of the Committee as he engaged the shuttle's engines to continue the journey back to Haven.

"FIVE COMMITTEE FIGHTERS HAVE LANDED NEAR THE LAKE," Capricia reported as she returned from her survey mission. "WE MUST MOVE OUR PEOPLE FURTHER INTO THE TUNNELS, IMMEDIATELY."

"See to it, Capricia," Contanella agreed. "I'll get the comm-board ready for transport after I contact Universe II and advise them of our situation."

The disheartening news from Canton had brought profound dispair to the remaining colonists on Haven. Hidden beneath the planet's surface, they had little with which to defend themselves. Universe II and the small shuttles carried most of the colonist's weaponry. Canton's vessel had been too heavily damaged to yield sufficient defense against the forces that had now landed on Haven.

"HANNAH, WE MUST SECURE THE TUNNEL ENTRANCE, PROMPTLY," Capricia warned.

"Alright, Capricia," Hannah acknowledged. "A few of the Minotians are still outside. I'll go hurry them along."

"PLEASE MOVE SWIFTLY. IT WILL NOT TAKE THE COMMITTEE SOLDIERS LONG TO TRAVEL HERE." Capricia placed her hand on Hannah's arm. "AND, BE CAREFUL."

"I'll be back before you know it."

Hannah exited the underground tunnel and proceeded to locate the few Minotians who still stood guard outside the passageway. Noticing Ret approach, she hurried to enlist his aid in warning the others.

"Will you alert everyone?" Hannah asked. "But you must hurry."

"Okay, Hannah. I do right away."

The two parted. Ret immediately began to call out through the being's small, hidden communicator, and alerted the remaining Minotians outside the tunnels. Hannah hurried towards the makeshift shelters where she remembered two Latician sentries were concealed, watching for signs of approaching Committee soldiers. She made her way through the twisting paths which were heavily bordered by large rocks and thick shrubbery.

A strange noise sounded from behind one of the surrounding rocks along the path and Hannah stopped to investigate. Sighting nothing from her location on the path, Hannah climbed up on one of the smaller boulders. She surveyed the nearby thicket, searching for the source of the peculiar sound.

"Loga!" Hannah gasped.

Only a few meters away, Hannah saw the small Minotian lying on the ground; the blood-soaked fur glistening in Haven's subdued sunlight. She jumped down from the rock and ran over to the body. The wounds were fresh and Loga was near death.