Silverfox Relah Star sat on a partially
decomposed log, playing with her pup Yap-yap. With a soft laugh, Silverfox threw
the small ball, and the multi-coloured dog yipped eagerly and ran after it.

    “Good boy Yap-yap, bring it back – ” Silverfox laughed,
her infectious laughter tinkling.
A noise broke Silverfox’s attention and she quickly looked up, as her
good friend Mack, an Anthropomorphic Wolf came running up to her.
    “Have you heard the news?” He panted, his breath thundering.

    “News?” Silverfox asked, her head tilted to the side as she
picked up her puppy and hugged him.
    “Yeah – ” Mack panted, his plate armour weighing him
down.
    “Silly wuffie….” Silverfox smiled. “Here, have a drink.”

Silverfox smiled, then handed him a small flask. Eagerly, Mack tore the top
off it and gulped down the cold water.
    “Hey – ” Silverfox exclaimed.
Mack shuddered, his muzzle curling with the effects of the near freezing water.
With a soft growl, he placed his paw to his head and slumped down beside his
childhood friend.
    “Silly – ” Silverfox smiled. “Now…what’s
got you so fired up?”

    Mack coughed and managed to catch
his breath.
    “You – haven’t heard? Meldaron Freedom Forces
destroyed a Schinicin Cruiser out near Altair 12.”
Silverfox’s eyes widened.
    “It’s true! They destroyed it!” Mack exclaimed in awe,
his eyes growing dreamy.
    Silverfox hugged Yap-yap tighter, making the young pup yelp. 
“When?”
    “Early this morning – but the Meldaron forces took
a hiding, lost six transports and a battle-craft, in the fighting.”
    Silverfox sobbed softly. “Why? Why can’t the Schinicin
leave us in peace? We’ve already suffered so much in the great Meldaron
war –”

    Mack’s ears drooped. “I…know.”

Silverfox set her puppy down and hugged her friend.  There was a soft whispery
sound, then a young man in a cape and mask floated softly down to them.

    “Hello my friends!” He smiled, then flicked his cape back.

    “Hiya Glider –” Mack, the armoured Anthro wolf began.

    “What’s with the long faces?” Glider asked, as he scratched
yap-yap.
Silverfox grunted.
    “Meldaron forces destroyed a Schinicin Cruiser –” Mack
began.
    “Oh, that all – WHAT ?” Glider exploded.

    “Out near Altair 12 – or so Mack was just telling me,”
Silverfox replied.
Glider stared at Mack, who nodded.
    “Meldaron forces lost six transports,” Mack began. “As well
as a battle-craft in the space battle.”
    Glider sighed. “Does anyone – “
    “Come on, let’s go back to my place…” Silverfox
sighed. “I – don’t want to sit out here any-more.”

    Glider and Mack followed Silverfox
back in to the depths of the forested tree village that was her home, where
she stayed with her parents. Pausing, Silverfox placed Yap-yap in the satchel
she wore, then easily scaled up the swaying rope ladder. Mack took longer, his
battle armour weighing him down. Glider smiled, then slowly floated up and hovered
next to Silverfox.
    “There are times – ” Silverfox began, as she stepped
on to the wooden balcony.
    “When?” Glider smiled innocently, as he too touched down.

    “When I could happily tie lead weights to you…and
then see if you can fly!”
Glider laughed softly then helped Mack up on to the balcony.  Silverfox
hugged Mack and Glider tightly, then they walked in to the house, just as news
broadcast was finishing…

    “Oh sweet Millar – ” Charlene
wept as she dried her black furred paws on her apron. “It’s started –
“
    “What – ” Silverfox asked, as and her friends entered.

Charlene gestured weakly to the wall, in which, the news broadcast was showing
– the once beautiful city of Maloner, Capital of Meldaron – a once beautiful
city of crystal – now a shattered and blackened ruins. Native Meldaron’s
(the Anthropomorphic animals) and Hyooman’s (from a neighbouring planet) were
seen amongst the destruction, wailing for their lost loved ones and homes….

    “In a retributive strike – Forces of the Schinicin
Imperial navy, attacked and destroyed the city of Maloner – home of over
ten million Meldaron’s and Hyooman’s – with barely eighteen-thousand
survivors. Now – a message from the King of Meldaron, his Excellency,
King Reyard Russet….”
    “My people – my friends. A tragic day has come to our
world of Meldaron – this terrible atrocity is the worst to strike our
peaceful world since the Great War. My people…the time has come. No more
will our population be threatened by the threat of war from the Schinicin Empire.
Our time to strike – is now ! How long have our people lived
in fear – fighting the battle against the Schinicin Empire, who seek to
crush all of us beneath their Imperial heel. No longer shall we be threatened
– now the time…what the hell!”

    A deafening roar tore across the continents
of Meldaron, as waves of Imperial fighters swept across the skies. Millions
screamed and ran in mass panic, as the Schinicin star-fighters swept by overhead,
and the Meldaron military watched in helpless terror, as the huge hulking Schinicin
Star-Crushers swept in to orbit….
    “People of Meldaron – ” Came a voice from seemingly
everywhere. “Your attention please….”
Silverfox and her friends were glued to the broadcast, as the kings image spluttered
and frizzed, the was superimposed by an image of the Grand Admiral of the Schinicin
Empire – a great hulking dragon, whose blood red eyes chilled any who
gazed upon him.
    “I am Sith Hirr Draconis, Grand Admiral of the Imperial Schinicin
naval fleet. I offer you a chance to save yourselves…and your pitiful
planet….”

    Silence reigned across the continents.

    “Damn you sir!” Snarled King
Reyard Russet. “We’re not going to roll on our back in submission
to your dark Lord. We are a proud people, and if it means that we shall go to
war – then it is war you shall have!”
    “Your Highness – ” Scathed the Reptile. “You are a
creature of honour, and my Imperial Majesty respects that…. However,
your fleet even now flees, running for their lives – before the Star-ships
of the Schinicin fleet! Your fleet is lost…and we’ve already destroyed
one of your major cities. Do not call down the wrath of his Imperial majesty
upon your heads more! He is lenient! He will let you live your lives in peace;
so long as you accept his rules…and obey him in all things. Naturally,
he will place garrisons in your cities, but that is a small price to
pay…for survival isn’t it?”
All across the world, mass panic broke out. Any vessel that could took off and
was systematically annihilated by the orbiting Schinicin fleet.
    “People of Meldaron…please – listen to me!”
Begged King Reyard.
Worldwide, people were panicking, knowing that if their fleet were indeed
lost…then they all would perish.
    “My people, listen not to the vile lies of the Emperor! You
know what befell others who believed in his lies!” King Reyard pleaded.

    “Of course – ” Snarled Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis.
“They tried to fight us…and we fought back. Your fleet is lost
to you, your people are crying out for salvation – don’t make the
Emperor destroy you! You and you’re people have a chance to live –
why don’t you accept it?”
    “To live as what?” Snarled King Reyard. “As servants under
the Imperial heel?”
    “This is your decision then?” Hissed Grand Admiral Sith Hirr
Draconis.
    “I speak for my people – my world. We will never
bow to any invading force, and we will fight…if we must.”
King Reyard snarled, his mane bristling, his anger flaring in his eyes.

    “So be it – ” Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis exhaled,
a faint wisp of smoke leaking from his nostrils. “You’ve signed your own
– and your peoples death warrants….”

    There was a moment’s
silence….

    “So be it – your Highness. You
shall rule over a dead world. We came in peace, but since you are reluctant
to accept the Emperors will… If it’s war you want –
then it is war you shall have.” Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis snarled,
then the image faded.
    “Oh blessed Millar – ” Wept Charlene. “Why? Why has
it finally come down to this? What have we done to deserve such a threat on
our doors? Have we not lived our lives in peace?”
Not fully understanding the implications, as she was still young, Silverfox
comforted her mother as best she could.
    “Mother – ” Silverfox began. “Where’s my father?”

    “He – “
    “I’m here.” Snarled an old vulpine voice.

    Silverfox, Mack and Glider gaped,
as Maxin Rajin, Silverfox’s father, limped in to the room, bedecked in
his old but still serviceable military uniform, that was encrusted with medals
from his years of loyal service to the king. Slung at his side, was his phased
rifle, polished to an almost painful shine.
    “You – ” Charlene wept.
    “We have no choice!” Maxin snarled in fury, his one
remaining eye glittering with hate. “Do you all want to live as lackeys
under the Imperial fleet?”
    “Father – ” Silverfox begged. “Let me come with you
– I can fight….”
Maxin sighed, then stared at her daughter and Silverfox wilted beneath his gaze.
His dewlaps curled back in a soft, knowing smile.
    “Aye my daughter…you can fight – I have
no doubts about that, but you are our only child. I need you to stay
home, and protect your mother and our home.”
    “I – “
    “Stay home!” He snarled, his commanding voice chilling
Silverfox.
Silverfox stared at him, then burst in to tears and fled the house.
    “Get back here!” Her father raged.
Silverfox scampered down the rope ladder, quickly followed by her friends. In
tears, Charlene looked to her husband.
    “Oh Millar – why must you go to fight? You fought with
honour in the King’s service, and what did it cost you?”
    “What did it cost me? Do you have any idea, of what
I went through? My entire battalion falling around me – men screaming
for help – that never came…. I myself, maimed – no…be
grateful. You never knew the atrocities of the great Meldaron war –
” Maxin snarled. “Aye – I served the King – and would again –
in a heartbeat.”

    “Look at you!” Charlene wailed, wringing
her paws. “You’re old – crippled….”
With a snarl of sudden fury, his paw lashed out and he slapped her savagely
across her greying muzzle. Charlene wailed and stared at him, tears streaking
down her snout.
    “I…my beloved – ” Maxin suddenly moaned.

    “No – I had that coming – ” Charlene whispered,
then wiped her tears away.
    “What is happening to me?” Maxin moaned. “That I strike those
whom I am sworn to protect – “
    “Go – if you must, and I pray – that you will
return. Go on. You’re a soldier, and always will be. Go to battle,
and may Millar herself watch over you….”

    Glider flew above the forest, scanning
for Silverfox, who had fled in tears. On the ground, Mack Shazri looked, where
Glider couldn’t see. Further and further they travelled, investigating
each and every place both of them could think of, where Silverfox would or could
be….

    High above the planet Meldaron, the
Star-Crushers held their orbits, watching and scanning for any threats –
real or perceived – from the planet below. Aboard the flagship, a young
reptilian officer stepped up and knelt on one knee before the Grand Admiral.

    “Speak T’ska.” Hissed Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis.

    “Sire,” Spoke T’ska. “Force shielding has risen over
many major capital cities. Sire, I fear – “
    “I want results T’ska not excuses. If necessary,
level their cities – “
T’ska bowed respectfully.
    “So,” Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis whispered. “They dare
defy the might of the Empire? Then pay the consequences they shall….
Commander, alert all Star-Crushers. I want a full spread of torpedoes and lasers
– random targets – set for maximum effect.”
    “Sire!” Snapped the younger dragon Commander, as he ordered
the commands passed.
    Settling back, Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis exhaled a
soft puff of smoke.  “Now, feel the wrath of the Emperor – “

    “Weapons armed and ready sire,” Spoke the Commander. “Awaiting
your order sir.”
Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis smiled softly, a cruel reptilian grin spreading
across his face.
    “Fire….”

    At last, Mack and Glider found Silverfox,
curled up in a huddle of fur, sobbing her eyes out in pain and grief.

    “Silverfox – ” Mack whispered, as he knelt and placed
a hand on her shaking shoulder.
    “Why? Why won’t he let me join the Meldaron forces?”
Silverfox wept, then wrapped her paws about her friend and squeezed.

Even in his polymer-plated armour, Mack grunted, feeling the surprising strength
in his friend’s grasp.
    “Why?” Glider asked, as he landed softly beside her. “Why?
Because he loves you – and he knows – all too well, the brutality
of war. He doesn’t want you to suffer, as he did.”
Silverfox began to speak, when her eyes widened in terror, and they all looked
skywards, as a dozen blinding projectiles seared through the atmosphere….

    “Down!” Glider screamed in terror, then crashed in to his
friends, covering them with his own body.

    With ear shattering blasts, the torpedoes
slammed down upon the small Forest Village, and then massive explosions tore
through the forest. A cyclonic shock wave accompanied by a hell-spawned firestorm
ripped across the village, nearly suffocating the three friends, as they sheltered
behind a massive granite outcropping. Great trees, which had stood for centuries,
were uprooted and flattened in the hell-fury of the firestorm that swept the
village from the face of Meldaron….

    Silverfox’s lungs screamed in
agony, as the air was sucked from them, replaced with what felt like liquid
fire…. Her own body, and those of her friends, writhed and jarred, every
muscle screaming, the nerves turned to fire as the maelstrom spread outwards…to
be replaced with an equally deafening silence – the silence of the dead….

    “Oh mother Millar – ” Mack gasped, as he weakly rose
– then his eyes widened in horror….
Glider helped Silverfox to her feet, then their own minds fell away, as they
looked at the shattered remains of their childhood homes…. Everywhere,
great trees were burning out of control, and others were uprooted and even more,
turned in to splinters.
    “NO!” Silverfox wailed, then fled back towards her
home, choking on the acrid smoke.
    “Silver – ” Glider screamed.
    “Silverfox!” Mack wailed. “Don’t – it’s
too dangerous!”
Silverfox, her eyes burning from the smoke, ran on, ignoring her friends.

    “Oh sweet Millar – ” Mack yelped, then bolted after
her. “Come on Glider!”
Glider ran after Mack and Silverfox, eventually catching them. Silverfox paused,
and then stared at the smoking remains of her family home – now a splintered
and shattered ruin. Smoke wafted through the still burning forest, and Silverfox
was stricken silent, overwhelmed by the tragedy that had befallen her…and
her friends.

    Even Mack, his eyes wide, was silent.
Glider came up to Silverfox, then he wept and placed his hand softly on her
shoulder. Without warning, both Mack and Silverfox turned – and enfolded
Glider in a crushing embrace, both the Anthro’s wailing like whipped pups
at their loss….
    “Oh why?” Silverfox wailed, tears streaking down her muzzle.
“Why? What have the people of Meldaron done to deserve this? Our – my
parents!”
Mack snarled, then tore his way free and began running down the ash and debris
strewn road.
    “Mack – ” Silverfox wept.
    “No Silver – let him go. He needs…to deal with
this in his own way.”
Silverfox held her childhood friend tightly, and then she tearfully broke the
hold and stared about at the chaos and destruction.
    “We – let’s salvage anything we can….”
Silverfox wept then drew her paws over her streaming eyes.
    “Silver – “
    “Just do it!”

    Glider made his way in to the shattered
ruins, searching for anything that Silverfox might like, or they could use.
Silverfox searched likewise – but further away. Glider overturned a smouldering
piece of debris – then his face drained of blood. Beneath it, were the
– remains – of her parents. They were barely recognisable, but the
scent – made Glider nauseous. Maxin’s last mortal effort, had been
to throw himself upon Charlene – in a valiant but futile attempt to save
her. He heard Silverfox’s gasp then when he twisted about, Silverfox stared
in morbid horror at what he had been looking at….
    “Silver – ” Glider began.
Silverfox’s knees crumbled beneath her and she slammed down upon the wreckage,
gashing her leg deeply – not that she noticed the pain. Glider looked
at her, then stepped backwards, allowing Silverfox her grief and last farewells.
To his surprise, she did cry, but not in the heartbreaking sobs he expected.

    “He – died the way he lived.” Silverfox whispered,
as she gently picked up something.
    “You – ” Glider began.

    Silverfox went to where some more
wreckage lay, then knelt and turned a small dial of the still warm safe. With
a click, it opened and she withdrew a paw sized flawless crystal, set in a silver
holder and neck chain. After a few moments of silent contemplation, she placed
the pendant about her neck and dug through more of her destroyed home, finding
her fathers blackened armour and phased rifle. Slowly, she put on the armour,
then adjusted it to make it more comfortable, before she slung the rifle and
tightened the helm over her head.
    “If it’s a war that the Empire wants – then it
is one – that I will happily engage in.” Silverfox whispered, her voice
changed – tinged with a righteous anger that lent her strength

    “Silver – we can’t take on the whole Schinicin
Empire!” Glider moaned.
    “My father once told me – that it only takes one person,
with a long enough lever, to move the world. So help me, on my parents names,
I swear – that they will pay for this atrocity. We beat them back
once before – and this time – we will destroy them!”

Silverfox turned her back on her home, then without looking back, began walking
down the debris-strewn road, heading for Mack’s home. Glider wept softly
then uttered a short prayer for the dead before he ran to catch up to Silverfox.

    High above Meldaron, the orbiting
Star-Crushers held and continued their merciless pounding of the Meldaron forces
and infrastructure.
    “Remember,” Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis snarled. “I
want the city shield destroyed! Do not cause any more damage to Camer
than is necessary. Deploy the Dragon Wing….”
    Slowly, the Commander approached and knelt on one reptilian
knee.  “Sire –”
    “You have your orders Commander – deploy them.” Grand
Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis whispered. “Since your naval forces are ill-equipped
to use this warship and this fleet to its’ fullest extent – “

    “Sire – the….”
    “I am well aware of the situation Commander.” Grand Admiral
Sith Hirr Draconis snarled. “General T’zra – “
A black scaled dragon approached and looked at the Grand Admiral.
    “Sir – “
    “These Meldaron’s are more equipped than our intelligence
gathered had us believing. General T-zra – prepare your troops for ground
attack. Oh – send in the Dragon Wing as well.”
    General T-zra’s eyes widened. “The – commando’s?”

    Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis growled.  “I want that
city pacified Commander – not annihilated. Use the Dragon Wing to take
out primary targets. Namely – the shield generators for that annoying
city shield.”
    “Aye sir – ” General T-zra spoke, then nodded and passed
the order.

    Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis glared
at the naval Commander, who wilted before that baleful glare.
    “Commander – you have displeased me once too many times
in this campaign. You – of all people in his majesties command, should
know….”
    “Sire – “
    “Do not blame others for your own short-comings Commander….”

    “I….”
    Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis smiled sadly but cruelly. 
“None of us – are indispensable Commander – not even me.”

Two reptilian solders approached, then locked their clawed hands about the Commanders
shoulders.
    “Commander – once, you fought with a tenacity and honour
rivalling my own. You’ve become weak and have lost your edge…and
now, I am forced in to destroying you. However, as a last – compensation
– for your decades of loyal service, you will be executed swiftly….”

    “His majesty is gracious – ”
Growled the Commander.
At this, Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis smiled cruelly and his hollow laughter
washed over the bridge of the flagship.
    “You’re mistaken – his majesty is not gracious…I
am.” Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis whispered. “Take him away…and execute
him summarily.”
Steeling his resolve, the Commander snapped the guard’s hands off himself
and walked to the airlock. Here, under the gaze of the attentive guards, he
opened the airlock and stepped in. Without looking back, he heard the airlock
close – then a few moments later…the hiss of escaping air. At the
last second, as the airlock opened, he was treated to the incredible experience
of viewing the planet…and the blazing binary suns…before he tried
to scream – and was explosively decompressed….

    Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis had
watched the death and he turned away from the view port
    “A shame – he did once, show some promise….”
Whispered the Grand Admiral.
    “Sire – ” Spoke a young Captain.
    “Yes Captain?” Asked the Grand Admiral.
    “Sire – ground forces are ready…awaiting your
orders sir.”
    “So be it…deploy the forces – Meldaron will
fall!”

    With a deep bow, the Captain passed
the word to the waiting Star-Crushers. After a few moments, the Captain returned.

    “Drop ships away sir…ETA to landing in T-10 minutes.”

    “Excellent Captain…. Keep me appraised of the situation.
I must report – to his Excellency.”
    “Aye sir….”
Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis raised his great bulk and turned around and
started leaving the bridge – before he paused and looked back over his
shoulder.
    “Oh…another thing – “
    “Sire?”
    “Don’t fail me – Commander.” Spoke the
Grand Admiral as he left the bridge of the Imperial naval flagship.

    Glider and Silverfox found Mack at
the still smouldering remains of his parent’s home. Mack was on his knees,
clutching the corpse of his elder sister – his only family member he had,
both his parents having perished in the great Meldaron war years ago. Silverfox’s
muzzle wrinkled and her anger flared in her eyes. Gripping her father’s
rifle tighter, she kept watch as Glider walked to their friend’s side.

    “Mack – ” Glider sniffled, as he gently placed his
hand on the quaking wolf’s shoulder. “I – I’m so sorry….”

    “Why?” Mack wailed, tears streaking down his muzzle. “Why
has this happened? Why are they attacking us?”
    Glider sighed softly.  “Mack – “
    “Millar – WHY!” Mack wailed, his mournful howl
chilling both Glider and Silverfox.
Silverfox, her anger heightened, but tempered by her friend’s grief, stepped
forwards and gently disentangled Mack from his dead sister, then led him away.
Mack clutched her tightly, then buried his muzzle against her armoured chest
and wailed. Glider knelt, then gently picked up her corpse and carried it in
to the non-damaged part of the forest, where he knelt and prayed for this young
wolf’s spirit, begging Millar to grant her a much needed rest. As was
the tradition, he left her corpse to the wild animals. It went against all he
believed and followed, but he accepted it, as it was the Meldaron’s way….

    Returning to his friends, he spoke. 
“What do we do?”
Silverfox gripped her fathers rifle tightly, tears of her barely restrained
anger shimmering in her eyes.
    “What do you think we do?” Silverfox grated through gritted
teeth. “We fight.”
    “Silver – “
    “Glider – have you considered – that this may
be happening to your own world as well? What makes you think that
just because you’re hyooman – that the Imperial fleet will spare
your world?”
    Glider’s eyes widened in terror. “They – “
    “Glider – the Empire will decimate any and all that
refuse to bow down to them, including non-anthro worlds. I just pray, that your
government acquiesces quickly.”
    “Silver – what you’re saying – it’s
treason!” Mack wailed.
    “No Mack – it’s not. It’s the truth. If
the Meldaron King had of accepted the Imperial offer of peace – perchance
– this would not of happened….”
    “But it has – “
    “Aye – ” Silverfox whispered. “It has – and we’ll
fight. We may not be much of a military force, but I for one, will not lie down
and die. I will fight to protect my people…and my world.”

    Mack looked deep in to her eyes, then
he drew his paw across his own and he snuffled and nodded.
    “You’re right – we’ll fight….” He
whispered, his own anger slowly rising, boiling like steam within him. “We may
die in the attempt, but we’ll make the Empire pay – for what they’ve
done.”
    Silverfox nodded sadly. “That we will….”
Setting their resolve, the three friends turned their feet to the north, and
walked onwards, each of them lost in their own thoughts…. Indeed –
what hope did the three have – up against the might of the evil Schinicin
naval fleet, that even now, was finalising it’s strangle-hold on Meldaron.
None of them had any real military training, but they had one thing, the Empire
didn’t possess…a driving force and love for their home –
and those that they had lost….

    Weary, footsore and hungry, Silverfox,
Glider and Mack had made their way to the city of Pelikan, to find it a blackened
charred ghost of a town. Nothing moved within it’s wrecked confines, except
for the carrion creatures. Here and there, were the remains of those poor Meldaron’s,
who had tried to flee the city…and had been cut down. Scattered about,
were the greenish/grey skinned Schinicin foot soldiers, who had died in the
fighting. More than one bore a shattered mask and a look of hideous agony on
their reptilian muzzles, as the oxygen rich Meldaron air had strangled them.
Glider and Mack armed themselves with small, easily concealed pistols and Silverfox
managed to find a not too badly beaten up hover car. Mack and Glider spent a
few days working on it – repairing and replacing parts that were damaged,
so it would run again. All through the dark nights, there came the periodic
flashes of laser fire…or the more horrifying gleams of laser torpedoes,
as they streaked down from the heavens above. They each took turns in keeping
watch, but for what, they were not quite sure. At last, the hover car was repaired
as best they could make it and they set off for the spaceport of Foxville…and
hopefully, some way of finding safe refuge.

    Foxville
– Minor Meldaron Spaceport

    A few days later, they paused on top
of a small hill, gazing down at the partially ruined Spaceport City of Foxville.
A great many of the Imperial transports were touching down in and around the
spaceport town and every now and again explosions rocked the city. A great pall
of smoke hung over the northwestern portion of the city, where a fire blazed
out of control in the slum districts. Carefully, they concealed their weaponry
and Silverfox’s armour, much to her displeasure…. Making their
way down in to the outskirts of the city, they were stopped at an Imperial checkpoint.

    “Halt – ” Come the reptiles’ snarl, his voice
muffled by his breathing mask.
Immediately, Glider halted the hover car and looked.
    “What’s you names – and where’s your identification
passes?” Hissed the reptile, as his four companions held their rifles ready,
surrounding the vehicle.
    “Our…passes?” Glider whispered.
    “Passes…now.”
Glider made a half-hearted groan and looked. He knew that they didn’t
have their passes…and wondered how they were going to get out of this
predicament.
    “Step out of the car…now.” Snapped the reptile, drawing
up his rifle.
Just as Glider, Silverfox and Mack were about to do so, an older reptile emerged
from the shadows, dressed in a dark black robe, his eyes gleaming.
    “Z’chazra….” Hissed the elder reptile, his clawed
hand raising.
With a look of terror, the reptile guards backed away from their companion,
who stared in horror back at the dark robed one.
    “I….”
    “Let – ” Hissed the one in robes. “Them go. Have them
report to Imperial Affairs.”
Nodding, the reptile moved back, then swiftly waved them on. Glider sighed in
relief and drove in to the city.
    “What was that all about?” Mack asked from the back
seat.
    “I don’t know – ” Silverfox replied. “But who-ever
that black robed one is, he has them terrified.”
    “Now – do we….”
    “Of course not – ” Silverfox snapped. “If they run
an ID check against my name, I’ll be amongst the top ten wanted….”

    Glider snarled, narrowly missing another
hover car, which came hurtling out of a side street.
    “Aye – it’s because of your lineage…isn’t
it?” Mack asked softly. “Your grandfather…your father… May Millar
bless their souls.”
    Silverfox moaned, but nodded.
    “What do we do?” Mack whined.
    “That’s a good question – ” Glider admitted.
“I don’t know.”
    “If we’re in luck,” Silverfox spoke. “There is still
a strong Meldaron presence here, and I knew – of a covert place to send
messages and get in touch with the Meldaron Resistance…back when Meldaron
was at war.”
    “What?” Mack moaned. “More treason against the King?”

    “No treason – ” Silverfox spoke. “I have utmost respect
for King Reyard Russet. However, now that it’s obvious the Meldaron fleet
is either fleeing or lost, and our ground forces are probably soon to fall…the
underground will have risen once more.”
    Mack whined in misery.
    “Trust me Mack – I’m just as scared as you…but
I’m trying not to let the Schinicin presence get to me…. If I can,
I’ll get in touch with the underground and hopefully, find us a safe house.”

Glider parked the hover car and they quickly exited. They couldn’t help
but notice the strong Schinicin military presence. They were everywhere, in
all shades of loathsome reptilian colour. Soldiers patrolled the streets, stopping
and searching both Meldaron’s and Hyooman’s alike. Silverfox and friends
made their way down a few of the debris littered roads, before she found the
used hover car lot. Making her way inside, she perused the beaten up cars on
display.

    A large portly wolf approached and
sniffed disdainfully.
    “Can I help you?” He sniffed.
    “Yes – ” Silverfox smiled sweetly. “Have you got the
Galdarian IV in stock?”
    “Madam – “
    “I hear it’s good…for fast escapes to the
country.” Silverfox replied.
Quickly, the wolf closed the front door and latched it.
    “Come with me…quickly!” He whispered, as he depressed
a secreted button and watched a hidden doorway slide open. “Hurry!”

    They made their way through the secreted
doorway, then down a steep stairwell that curled away in to darkness far below.
As quickly as they could, then made their way down and were met at the bottom
by a young female Vixen.
    “Come with me…” She whispered, then touched a small
device on her belt.
There was a soft click, then a 2 metre wide by 3 metre high section of wall
slid aside and they entered in to a narrow room, which was filled with a large
array of dusty computers and other monitoring equipment. All around them, native
Meldaron’s were dusting down the computers and equipment
    “Hi – ” One of the Meldaron’s, a young male Kangaroo
spoke.
Glider waved in return as Silverfox glanced about, looking worried. A young
female Otter came to them.
    “Hello…and welcome to the Meldaron resistance –
such as it is. I am base Lieutenant Galena.”
    “I am – Silverfox Relah Star, and these are my friends,
Mack and Glider. We’re trying – to get a message to King Reyard
Russet.”
    Quietly, the young Kangaroo laughed. “Yeah – you and
twenty million others….”

    Lieutenant Galena favoured the young
marsupial with a baleful stare, until he retuned to bringing the computer system
online.
    “Forgive me…things are – a little wild around
here at the moment. We’re struggling to bring this old centre back in
to operational status.” Lt. Galena said.
    “I understand – any news on other cities?” Silverfox
asked.
Sadly, Lt. Galena nodded then glared at a computer screen. With a snarl, she
smacked it and to her surprise, it flickered and come back online.
    “Aye – Maloner, Pelikan, Collietile, Gumtree, Mainfield
and Gille are decimated. Other cities are due to fall shortly…. King
Reyard has ordered anyone who can, to try and get as far away from the cities
as possible…. Our forces, Millar protect us – have been decimated.
Speculation and rumours abound, but it is yet to be confirmed, that the entire
star-fighter hanger and base near Maloner was totally destroyed….”

    “What do we do – ” Silverfox moaned.
    “Look – as you are aware, the Schinicin have decimated
many of our cities, and those who didn’t bow down…have been rounded
up – for ‘re-education’. Imperial martial law has been enforced,
and pockets of resistance are here and there, but with such widespread chaos
and destruction, our network of cells has been disrupted. I can help you and
your friends though…as I remember your fathers exploits in the great
Meldaron war.”
    “Thank – you.” Silverfox whispered.

    “It’s the least we can do. Now,
go to the Drunken Badger Cafe. Here, our ‘contact’ will be waiting.
You won’t know who it is, but I will pass along word and this ‘contact’
will get in touch with you, and help you in any way we can….”

    “Warning – intruder alert!” Whistled a computer. “Outer
base security compromised – Schinicin forces have entered the outer perimeter….”

    “Damn it!” Lt. Galena snarled. “Come on – we’ve
got to get out of here!”
Grabbing Silverfox and her friends, Lt. Galena forced them down the narrow corridor,
towards a concealed doorway.  Those who were armed took up defensive positions,
their weapons trained on the armoured door to the secret base. Through the thick
door, came loud thuds of concussion grenades.
    “Wait – ” Silverfox moaned. “Let us help!”
    “Just go – ” Lt. Galena growled. “Here –
take this – “
Silverfox felt something slapped in to her paw, and she looked down at a small
CD.
    “What – “
    “There’s no time – ” Lt. Galena snarled, as she
un-holstered her pistol. “Our contact will be in touch with you…and please
– don’t let the Schinicin’s get their claws on that data!
It’s vital to the safety of our other base….”

    A deafening explosion rocked the hidden
base as the armoured door exploded and laser fire ripped in to the base. Lt.
Galena snarled then slammed open the hatch and literally pushed the three friends
in to the escape hatch, then leapt in herself, as she pulled the heavy door
sharply closed behind her. Silverfox opened her mouth to speak, but Lt. Galena
silenced her with a look, then began running down the dark tunnel. Once at a
safe distance, she depressed a small button…and the ground shook with
an explosive concussion. Dust and debris rained down upon Silverfox, Mack, Glider
and Lt. Galena, who wept softly.
    “What – was that?” Glider moaned.
    “That – was the secreted bomb, placed within the base….”
Lt. Galena replied simply, then lit a small glow torch and led their way down
in to the dark sewers beneath Foxville.
    “You – killed them?” Mack whispered in horror.

    “They – understood and knew the risks. Would you have
preferred that they fall in to the claws of the Schinicin’s? Do any
of you…have any idea of what the Schinicin’s would do to them?”

Mack’s eyes widened as the full realisation began sinking in to him.

    “Damn it all – we’re at war here!” Lt.
Galena snarled, as she stepped down in to the lower sewer level. “Do you think
I like what I’ve done?”
    “No – ” Mack whispered.
    “I – I’m sorry…. I didn’t mean to
snap your head off…. It’s just that – well, we’re caught
off guard by the Empire’s sudden attack. Meldaron military forces are
either annihilated or gone deep in to hiding, the Meldaron star-ship fleet was
decimated or fled…and we’re…out of options. Now, there’s
only scattered resistance…but there is…a secret base, from which,
if we’re lucky…the Schinicin haven’t found yet.”

    Glider looked at her.
    “If they have?” He asked.
    Lt. Galena sighed. “If they have – then Millar help
us all, as that’s the last military outpost that we have….”

    “What of the King? Is he still alive?” Mack asked.

    “Son – I can’t tell you. All communications with
Crown Palace was cut just after the war really started. We have no surveillance,
as the Schinicin fleet shoots down – any and all craft either from orbit,
or their planet side star-fighters. All we know for sure – is that Crown
Palace is lost.”
    Lt. Galena looked up and down the sewer tunnels.  “I’ve
got to make this quick. Don’t let that disk fall in to the wrong
paws, as it’s got vital information on it. I trust you – and please
– don’t let our trust go astray. Many Meldaron’s have sacrificed
their life in the past day, to bring and compile this information. With some
luck, we’ll find a way to defeat the Schinicin’s. Now – go,
and may Millar watch over us all….”
Leaving them standing in the ankle deep water, Lt. Galena made her way swiftly
away from them, disappearing in to the gloom….
    “Oh great – so now we’re couriers?” Glider asked.

Silverfox glared at him, then secreted the CD and began looking for an access
ladder back up.
    “Mack, you’re better at this than I am…any ideas?”
Silverfox asked.

    Mack looked, then he moved hesitantly,
until he was more assured of his bearings.
    “This way, towards the spaceport….” He replied.

    “Do it.” Silverfox grunted, as she slung her father’s
rifle across her back.
Out voted and bewildered, Glider staggered along in their footsteps.  Some
time later, they emerged in a dim side street; the rumble of the Schinicin’s
transports coming and going, sounding like thunder.
    “Now where?” Mack asked.
    Silverfox walked casually out to the street, then took her
bearings and moved purposefully towards the more seedy part of Foxville. Mack
and Glider ran to catch up to her.
    “Are you crazy!” Glider moaned.
Silverfox glared at him and kept up her brisk pace.
    “Silver – if they see you armed and wearing
this armour…” Glider moaned.
Silverfox’s pace slowed, as an expression of surprise spread slowly across
her face.
    “You…you’re right. We’ve got to get ourselves
some cover – ” Silverfox whispered softly.
    “Yes – that we do!” Glider commented quickly. “I don’t
really want to spend the rest of my life working in some Schinicin prison camp…and
I hate to think of what they would do to you.”
    Silverfox grunted, then increased her pace. “Come on –
we’re here….”

    Mack and Glider looked up…at
a seedy and run down café. Smoke, strong and pungent, wafted from it,
along with a stream of assorted curses and the occasional scream of pain.

    “Ah – ” Mack whimpered.
    “Look – ” Silverfox moaned. “I don’t like it
either…. But we’re supposed to meet our contact here. Are you coming,
or do I go in alone?”
Mack whined and Glider comforted him gently.
    “Come on – it’s own only chance to do some good!”
Silverfox commented.
Mack looked at the Schinicin star-fighters that screamed past overhead. Overcoming
his pain, he managed to think more objectively, then shouldered past Glider
and Silverfox, and then entered the dim entrance of the café. Silverfox
looked at Glider, who shrugged and followed her in….

    Inside the café, bedlam reigned.
All manner of native Meldaron’s were here, drinking, cursing and even
fighting. Making their way past the seething melee that erupted for no reason,
they managed to get a small corner table. Mack looked at the blood spattered
seat and he decided it was better – and safer – to stand.

    “I’ll go get us something to drink – ” Glider
spoke.
Silverfox nodded and looked at Mack, who watched the brawl with interest and
a deal of caution. Silverfox smiles softly and unslung her rifle, keeping it
very close to her.
    “Mack – ” Silver began.
Mack was oblivious.
Silver sighed, then stood and leaned in close to her young friend’s head.

    “MACK!” Silverfox shrieked, her voice cracking.

    Mack wailed and jumped in alarm.  “Huh?”
    “Go help Glider – I don’t want our drinks wasted….”

    “Huh? Oh…yeah….” Mack muttered, then edged
his way through the swarming throng.
    “Oh Millar….” Silverfox moaned. “I’m sure he
is descended from a Lapine bloodline….”

    Silverfox sat patiently, her deep
blue eyes watching casually, but warily. She waved at a Meldaron, who had waved
at her, but she was careful in whom to try and befriend. Tempers were already
flaring, and it wouldn’t take much more, for this drunken brawl, to descend
in to a full-scale riot. Of course, if it did turn in to a riot, then
the Schinicin’s would crack down even harder…than they already
had. Silverfox sighed, then ran her russet paws through her soft bluish hair
and flicked it back out of her eyes. Her rage slowly abated, replaced with a
cool, calming sense of purpose. An intent, to make the Empire pay – for
what they had done…and were doing to this once beautiful planet and it’s
inhabitants.  Glider came back, then placed a small glass of milk before
Silverfox. Startled, she yelped, then Glider laughed softly.
    “You okay?” He asked her gently.
    “No…I was just – thinking.”
Glider nodded.
    “How I wish – that we could reform this anger…and
turn it to a purpose! Why are our people turning against each other? What has
happened to us?”
    Glider sighed softly. “Silver – “
Silverfox wept softly, then Glider reached out and enfolded her in his arms,
comforting the crying Vixen. Their comforting was broken by Mack’s startled
and soon strangled, yelp of surprise and alarm. Glider and Silverfox looked
over, to see Mack stumble, then spill his drink down the back of a hunched figure.
With a snort of equine fury, the huddled form rose…to tower over the
terrified young Wolf by a good four feet. It was a native of Alchemian –
an equine native of Meldaron. More than a fair match for the half-grown pup,
Mack – a native of Tasher, a predominantly canine related continent.

    “I….” Mack whimpered, staring
up at the black furred equine Anthro, which glared down in rage.
Easily, the great equine reached down, then clamped his powerful hand about
Mack’s throat.
    “Give me a reason – you flea bitten mongrel…why
I shouldn’t crush that ignorant skull of yours?” Snarled the Anthro horse.

Mack’s eyes bulged, as his muzzle sagged open, pitiful gasping sounds
coming from him.  Angrily, the Anthro horse began snarling and shaking
the poor Mack harder and harder – making his teeth rattle. Sensing an
imminent fight, the other patrons stopped and made a wide circle around Mack
and his captor. Silverfox rose, but Glider grabbed her and forced her to sit
down.
    “Silver – “
    “Damn it – Mack’s my friend…I’ve
got to go help him.” Silverfox growled.
Glider sighed, then squeezed his friends’ wrist tightly.
    “Glider – you’re hurting me….” Silverfox
whimpered.
    “Let them be! Don’t draw attention to us!” Glider hissed.

    Mack whimpered his paws clutching
at the great hand that had locked tight about his young neck.
“Well?” Snarled the horse, as he effortlessly lifted Mack up off his feet, and
held him nose to nose.
Again, Silverfox tried to rise, but Glider, who was standing, forced her gently
but firmly back in to her chair.
    “Urrk….” Mack gurgled, struggling wildly, choking.

From nowhere, came a furred body, then before the startled equine knew it, he
had a laser pistol embedded in his nostril.
    “Let the Lupin go, and apologise. It was an accident –
nothing more.” Spoke the voice softly, but with a hint of menace.
    “I….” Began the great horse.
    “Now.” Replied the voice, as it threw back its hood to reveal
the gaze of a young male stag, who, surprisingly, didn’t have any antlers.
“Or would you like me to fire…and give the inside of your thick skull
a much needed cleansing?”
His gloved paw tightened on the trigger.
    “Hey….” Spoke the horse, as he gently set Mack down,
then gave him a quick hug. “Hey…I’ve got no problems…. Can
I buy you a drink son?”
Mack fell to his knees, then gasped and retched, drawing breath in to his throat.

    “Thank – you.” Spoke the stag softly, as he holstered
his pistol, then turned away.

    Few saw the horse move…and
even fewer…saw the Stag respond. Just as the horse snatched a laser dagger
from his belt and lunged, the Stag twisted sharply about, and un-holstered his
pistol. Within the split second of the combat beginning, there was a sickening
blast, and the horse was thrown several feet backwards, his chest a smoking
/ charred mess. Sadly, the Stag holstered the pistol and helped Mack back to
his feet.
    “Was – it necessary?” Mack whimpered.
    “It – was. He would have killed me – or you.”
Spoke the stag sadly. “I wish I did not have to kill him…. Now, are you
alright?”
    Mack dusted himself down. “I…think so.”
    “What’s one so young doing in a place like this?” Asked
the stag.
    “We could ask you the same question – ” Silverfox replied,
as she approached, then made sure her friend was alright. “However –
It’s going to have to wait – “
Quickly, the stag’s eyes widened, as he saw a stealthy form slink out
the doorway, moments after a young female native Pearldinean left, bowing her
antlered head as she did so.
    “Hang on – ” Replied the Stag, his ears flicking. “Something
doesn’t hold well here….”

    Quickly, he made his way through the
crowd, who parted and allowed him through. Glider supported the weak kneed Mack
and Silverfox retrieved her rifle and followed. Outside, they searched for the
male Pearldinean, and found him loitering down the street a ways, watching a
sly and furtive dark cloaked figure, which was shadowing the female Pearldinean.
As if sensing potentially unfriendly eyes were watching her, she broke and ran,
disappearing down a dark alleyway. Quickly, the dark cloaked figure moved along
innocently enough, then slipped furtively in to the alley after her. There was
a high pitched female scream, followed by a weasels cruel squeal of laughter.
Instantly, the young stag Pearldinean was gone, blending silently in to the
dark alley, his pistol drawn. Glider, Silverfox and Mack followed, to find the
female Pearldinean pinned against back of the dead end alley.
    “Please – ” Wailed the Pearldinean. “What do you want?”

Slyly, the weasel reached up his dirty matted paw and caressed her cheek.

    “What I want – I shall have…Deerinea….”
Hissed the Weasel lustily.
    Deerinea moved back hard against the wall, her eyes wide
in terror.  “Please…I haven’t got anything! I swear!”
    “No?” Whispered the Weasel. “Oh but your mistaken – the Schinicin
will pay a very good bounty for you…once I’m finished of
course….”
    “I….”
    “Stop trying to stall me Deerinea. I know you’re
a spy for King Reyard, so don’t try to deny it…. My masters –
have already caught your friends…and believe me. What they’ve
suffered – will be light compared to what you will suffer at their
hands. Of course, give in – and I’ll ensure – they’re
more lenient…towards you.”

    “Please – I don’t know
what you want from me! I’m just an innocent Pearldinean…trying
to get on with my life.”
    “Meanwhile – working for the King…as a spy and
traitor. Give in Deerinea, and you’ll find it to be…more…rewarding…in
a physical and mental sense.”
    “No!” Deerinea wailed. “I will never fall at the
feet of the Schinicin forces. I’d die first – “
He smiled, then ran his furred paw across her cheek, then slapped it sharply.
Deerinea screamed as her head was snapped to the side.
    “I’m not offering you a choice in this Deerinea.
You’re much – much – older than you appear to be…and
I’d have thought that with age, would wisdom come… I was wrong. Your
precious Meldaron forces are lost – your world is falling around you,
yet you still cling to the hopes that some opposition will arise – and
bring low the Schinicin fleet? I honestly don’t understand you Deerinea,
as I would have thought – you would have seen reason…. Still, I’ll
take what I want – and then shall I turn you over to the Imperial
Commander personally. I’ll be richly rewarded for your hide… and
your information.”

    As Deerinea wailed, the moved in close
against her then roughly pulled her close to him. Her eyes widened, as he lustfully
bit at her neck, drawing blood with his sharp teeth. Deerinea put up a weak
but spirited resistance – fooling him in to her true plans. Without warning,
she moved like lightning, then drove her knee up in to his unprotected groin.
Mack and Glider instantly felt tears well in their eyes, as the weasel screeched
and staggered back, clutching his groin as he fell to his knees. Deerinea pressed
her attack, and planted her hoofed foot upside his head. There was a sickening
crunch, as she shattered his muzzle cheekbones. Gasping and retching, he fell
backwards, then began convulsing wildly. Deerinea felt her anger grab her, and
before she could stop herself – she grabbed his head between her paws….

    His eyes widened in horror, then she
snarled – and snapped his neck, the crunch like a gunshot. His body lay
before her, convulsing wildly. Slowly, the young Stag emerged from the shadows,
and holstered his pistol.
    “Deerinea – ” He whispered. “Come to me….”

Deerinea twisted about, her muzzle wrinkled in rage and blood lust. Carefully,
he approached her, then stopped and stared in to her eyes.
    “Deerinea – this isn’t our way….”
He spoke quietly, his voice soft but touched with the stern meaning of command.

For many minutes, he held her gaze transfixed…until Deerinea suddenly
burst in to tears and clutched him tight to her.
    “Hey, come on now – don’t cry….” He consoled
her. “You were defending yourself….”
    “I…he was going – ” Deerinea wept.
    “Sweetie – you and I both know he didn’t
have a chance. Had he of tried, then I would have taken him – and could
have. I almost did, but I needed to be sure first, and as it turned out –
my training of you has not been a total waste of time.”

    Deerinea smiled weakly, then placed
her arm about him and held him close.
    “I know my beloved – but he…he was going to
turn me over to the Schinicin garrison Commander – and they would have
made me talk….” Deerinea sniffled and dried her eyes.
    “All right you three – out here – ” Snarled the
Stag. “Come on – I don’t have all day!”
Frightened, Silverfox, Mack and Glider emerged. Deerinea’s eyes widened
and she edged closer to her mate.
    “First…you three are the most irresponsible…untrained…and
unethical tails I’ve ever seen….” He growled at them. “Don’t
you kids realise the very real danger?”
    “Whitetail – ” Deerinea began.
    “It was – foolish, potentially deadly – and the
worst case…. Why don’t you kids run along home…and….”
He raged. “Give me that rifle!  What’s Meldaron coming too, when
we’ve got pups roaming the….”
    “Take it off me – if you can.” Silverfox growled dangerously,
her eyes narrowing.

    In surprise, the Stag looked at her…then
his eyes widened as he reachout out and lightly touched her mind.
    “Millar damn me!”  He gasped.  “I am Whitetail,
secret member of the Meldaron freedom guard. I apologise for the treatment I
gave you all, but it was necessary.”
    “How can we trust you – to say who you are?” Silverfox
growled, her temper held barely in check.
    “Easily – ” Came a voice from behind them.
Glider and Mack jumped, as the wounded Lt. Galena appeared, crawling out of
a sewer cover.  Quickly, Deerinea moved over and helped the wounded Otter.

    “You’re hurt – ” Deerinea commented.
    “I’ve had worse – just a blaster burn. I’ll
survive. Come on – let’s not talk out here in the open. We’ve
got to find a way to get to the spaceport, and fast.”
Silverfox’s temper cooled, but she was still, understandably wary. Caught
up in a concealed web of stealth and deception, that was quickly overwhelming
the young Vixen. Mack looked at the Stag, which coolly looked back.
    “Why – did you risk…that poor Pearldinean?”
Mack asked him.
    Whitetail smiled weakly.  “I – had my suspicions
about that weasel. I’d been tracking him for a few days, and I suspected
he might be secretly working against the Meldaron forces. It seems my instincts
were right after all. As you had seen – I wasn’t risking my beloved
mate – as she is well trained in unarmed combat.” He looked at
the corpse of the weasel and shuddered. “Perchance – too –
well trained.”

    Deerinea moaned, then her ears flicked
as her eyes widened.
    “You there – halt!” Snarled a Schinicin voice.

Instantly, Lt. Galena, Whitetail and Deerinea were gone. They had ducked
in to what cover they could get.
    “I said freeze!” Snarled the reptile soldier, as his squad
of four moved in to their own protective shelter.
    “Are you three crazy!” Deerinea moaned. “Get your tails over
her…now!”
    “Freeze!”

    Silverfox leapt for cover, as Glider
and Mack leapt over near Whitetail. Seconds after they had gone to ground, the
Schinicin forces opened fire. Laser blasts spattered just above Glider’s
head, making him duck and cringe.
    “Keep your head down!” Whitetail snarled. “Or else…all
your problems are over…get me?”
Silverfox unslung her own rifle, then knelt and aimed carefully. Deerinea took
the opportunity, to stealthily move to a more advantageous position, and then
she produced a slender hunting pistol from its concealed holster. With a quick
glance, she sighted and fired. A Schinicin solder snarled and snapped back,
just as the shot spangled off the building wall right beside him.
    “Damn – ” Deerinea growled. “They’re quick….”

A torrential hail of automatic laser rifle fire ripped in to and around the
companion’s concealment.
    “They’re using the new tri-fire assault rifles!” Lt.
Galena yelled, ducking as a laser blast sizzled past her head.
    “Surrender – in the name of his Imperial majesty!”
Hissed one of the soldiers.
    “To live on one of your prison planets?” Silverfox snapped
back.
    “You can’t win – you’re….” He suddenly
flew backwards, half his head missing, green reptilian blood spurting.

    “Nice shot….” Lt. Galena yelled at Silverfox.

    In retaliation, the Schinicin soldiers
fanned out, then really opened fire. Silverfox gasped at the horrendous
firepower that these weapons brought to bear. One of them stepped out, cover
fire from his friends, then lobbed a small silvery object at them.
    “A flame grenade!” Whitetail wailed. “GET DOWN!”

A blast of white-hot flames erupted in a five-metre radius, and started burning
the trash and debris around it. Lt. Galena provided covering fire, as she took
charge and ordered her companions to retreat.
    “We’re not going to leave you….” Silverfox wailed.

    “Damn it – I’m a warrior. Let me fight as one!”
Lt. Galena snarled, then shot another of the Schinicin soldiers.
    “Listen to her!” Whitetail screamed. “Get out of here! Go!”

Whitetail rose, then shot at another soldier, then screamed as he was shot.
The force slammed him back against the wall, and then he croaked and crumpled
to the ground. Mack seized his pistol, then provided what fire he could, as
Deerinea knelt beside her beloved mate and checked him. It was a deep wound,
and blood flowed from the site in copious amounts. His eyes rolled back in his
head and he began choking.

    “Damn it!” Deerinea wailed. “Someone
come help me!”
Silverfox glanced at Lt. Galena, who nodded. Quickly, Mack, Glider and Lt. Galena
provided cover fire, as Silverfox ran across the alley, the Schinicin laser
fire ripping at her heels. Stumbling, Silverfox screamed as a stray shot burned
deeply across her left hip, nearly crippling her. It was a deep wound, but fortunately,
it had been cauterised. Silverfox collapsed near Glider, who seized her by her
tail and dragged her to safety. Silverfox screamed in pain, both at the wound
and the savage tug on her tail. Glider didn’t apologise, but he did
give Silverfox a sad look, as he helped Mack shoot wildly at the Schinicin
soldiers, who had called for reinforcements.  With a blast of it’s
hover jets, an Imperial troop carrier blocked off the exit to the alley, then
it’s trinary laser cannons swivelled to bear on the companions.

    “Damn them!” Lt. Galena wailed. “Our weapons are useless
against that! Go on, RUN.”
Glider ripped open the sewer access hatch, then forced Silverfox and Mack down,
then helped Deerinea to drag Whitetail over. Mack struggled under the weight,
but he safely brought the critically wounded stag down, then helped Deerinea.
Silverfox poked her nose back up, just in time to see Lt. Galena glance at her,
then stand and throw a grenade at the transport. Instantly, the guns swivelled,
and with a deafening roar…fired.

    Silverfox watched, as the incredible
laser fire literally ripped Lt. Galena apart, without her even having a chance
to cry out. With an explosion, the grenade detonated, right under the primary
generators for the transport. Silverfox ducked back in to the sewers, as a massive
fireball and explosion echoed above them as the Schinicin transport exploded.

    “What was that!” Glider moaned.
    “I…Lt. Galena died…to protect us. Come on,
we’re out of time – the Schinicin’s will really be
after us now….” Silverfox sniffled, then led her wounded companions down
the sewer tunnels…and hopefully, to freedom….
Mack looked to Glider, who snuffled softly and broke a glow torch out of his
belt pouch. He fumbled with it, and Mack crouched and retrieved it and struck
the igniter.
    “Now what do we do?” Glider asked.
    “We need to get off this continent – ” Silverfox told
them.  “Then – find a place to settle down, and work out what we’re
going to do. We know the Schinicin forces will be looking for us – and
others of the Meldaron resistance. If we can, we’ll head for the Star-port
and escape in a ship to another place, where the Schinicin are not yet present.”

Deerinea looked at Silverfox, with a surprised glance.
“Has it struck you yet – ” Mack began.
Silverfox silenced him with a stare.
    “Silverfox – ” Deerinea spoke softly. “I agree with
you – but the Schinicin star-fighters would cut us from the sky.”

    Silverfox nodded. “Has it occurred to you all…that
the Empire normally becomes quite sedate and docile after it’s conquered a world?
If we wait a little while, then there is a good chance, that we will be able
to escape safely.”

    Deerinea thought about this, then
reluctantly, nodded in agreement.
    “However – ” Deerinea spoke. “We must find some supplies,
and medical equipment, to help our wounded. Whitetail, I am afraid, won’t last
long down here in the sewers.”
    “Is there anywhere where we could lay up and heal the wounded?”
Glider asked.
    Deerinea was quiet for a while, then nodded. “We have a few
safe houses scattered throughout the city. These brave Meldaron’s,
will put us up…and in doing so, they are risking their own lives.”

Glider shuddered; thinking of already – how many Meldaron’s and
Hyooman’s, had lost their lives in the start of this war.
    Silverfox reached out and placed her paw on Deerinea’s
shoulder. “Thank you – my furiend.”
    Deerinea took Silverfox’s paw and squeezed softly.
“Do not thank me yet, as we’re not out of the fire… At least –
not yet.”
With that, Deerinea lead them quickly through the dim sewers beneath the space-port
of Foxville, herding them towards a secreted safe house, in which they could
rest and heal. Or so they hoped….

    Far above the planet Meldaron, hung
the great Schinicin Naval fleet.
    “Commander – ” Snarled Sith Hirr Draconis. “Give me
a status on the Imperial crack-down.”
    “Sir – ” Spoke the newly elevated Commander. “Our forces
are meeting resistance, and this is well within parameters. Other cities have
capitulated, or been pacified as per your orders.”
    “Excellent Commander. His majesty will be pleased with this
news.” Sith Hirr Draconis whispered softly, a faint wisp of sulphurous smoke
drifting up from his nose. “Now, I must go and inform his majesty, that the
invasion is on schedule…. Continue with the periodic strikes commander,
and round up the dissidents. We’ll ship them off-world to one of the prison
planets – whence, they shall work for the further glory of the Empire.”

    “Aye sir.”
With that, Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis made his way from the bridge of
the flagship, and down the hallways to his private chambers.  Here, he
crouched down on the holo-pad, and bowed his head. After a few moments, a wavering
image formed.
    “Speak…my servant.” Came a chilling draconic hiss.

    “My lord,” Began Sith Hirr Draconis, the pacification of
Meldaron is well in paw. We are finalising the last takeovers and will be shortly
in control of the planet.”
    “You have done well my servant….” Spoke the wavering
form of the Grand Dragon, Emperor of the Schinicin Empire. “I want Meldaron
pacified Sith Hirr Draconis…not obliterated. For too long, the Meldaron’s
have resisted our people. Now, they shall reap the crops, which they have sewn
amongst us. Once Meldaron has fallen, then we shall move on to the other systems…and
take them as well. Do not fail me Grand Admiral….”
    “Sire, your faith in me is well founded….” Spoke the
Grand Admiral. “I shall not fail you my highness.”
    “Excellent Sith Hirr Draconis…. Just ensure that you
never do fail me – ” Came the barely veiled threat as the holo-link
was severed.
Carefully, Sith Hirr Draconis raised his great bulk from the pad, then returned
to the bridge. Here, he ensconced himself back in his throne and sat watching,
as the Schinicin fleet systematically began it’s final moves, in capturing
the planet Meldaron.

    Back beneath the sprawling spaceport,
Deerinea took a moment out; to check on her wounded mate Whitetail.
    “How much further is it?” Mack asked wearily, his young voice
cracking with his fear.
    “A little ways yet,” Deerinea growled, as she quickly added
more padding to Whitetail’s deep wound. “I just pray that we make it in
time. Whitetail is losing too much blood…and this sewer is far from sanitary.”

Silverfox wished she could help, but she knew that herself and her companions
had to trust this Pearldinean. Glider offered Deerinea some extra support, and
Deerinea gratefully allowed Glider to help shoulder some of the critically wounded
Whitetail.
    “Are we going to be able to find safety there?” Mack whimpered.

    “For a while – until we’ll be forced to move
again. None of us expected the Schinicin’s to move so swiftly…and
with such a force mounted against us, there’s little in the way of opposition
to their take-over.”
    “Did you not mention – ” Silverfox spoke up.

    As if reading her mind, Deerinea looked at her.  “Yes,
there is a secret Meldaron military base, that I have hopes of us escaping
too. Here, we will find all that we need…and the last of the Meldaron
forces will be gathered there. It is hoped, that we shall be able to stage a
counter strike against the Schinicin’s and retake our cities.”

    “Do you have any information of the extent of the battle?”
Glider whispered.
    “Only a little. It is estimated that over seventy-five percent
of the ground forces were destroyed – and our space defence fleet has
either been annihilated or fled. I honestly do not blame those pilots who have
fled. None of us can withstand the Schinicin fleet.”
    Silverfox stared in horror, her eyes gleaming in the light. 
“Seventy-five percent?”

    Deerinea sighed wearily, then resumed
her pace.
“Silverfox – that is only a estimation. It could run higher – but
as we have no field operatives available and status research, we can’t
be sure. Still, I’d hazard a guess that this estimation may be closer
than any of us chose to acknowledge.”
Silverfox fell silent, wondering if Deerinea’s words really would come
true….

    Some time later, they finally found
their way and Glider helped Deerinea lift the critically wounded Whitetail up
the rusty and slimy ladder. Once they reached the top, Mack slid aside the metal
grate and swiftly exited. Once topside, he knelt and assisted the others.

    “Come on – ” Deerinea whispered. “We’re nearly
there….”
Silverfox took Glider’s position and Mack took Deerinea’s. Together,
they supported the now unconscious Whitetail as they struggled to follow Deerinea’s
quick movements. After a short time, they made their way in to a disused warehouse,
and Deerinea rapped quickly at an old reinforced door. A shutter opened and
a male voice spoke something. Deerinea replied and the shutter closed again,
then the great door creaked slowly open.
    “Come on – it’s not safe out there….”
Came the voice.
Gratefully, the friends made their way inside, and they saw an ancient Lapine,
a native of the Blue Moon Valley.
    “It’s a pleasure to meet you my old friend. How I wish
that we were meeting under much more pleasant circumstances.” Deerinea spoke
softly, then hugged the rabbit warmly.
    Grunting, the rabbit hugged her back. “Have you heard?”

    “Heard what?” Deerinea asked.
    “King Reyard Russet has escaped the attack on the Crown Castle.
His majesty is alive and unharmed, and en-route to the military base’s
secreted location.”
    “That is pleasing news – but it must wait. We’ve
got wounded here…and they need urgent medical assistance.”

    Nodding, the old Lapine grunted again.
He turned, then gestured for them to follow. Quickly, Silverfox and Mack took
either side of the wounded Whitetail and followed the others deeper in to the
warehouse. Here, they found a surprising array of Meldaron’s, all busily
working on computer systems, and some were finishing up adjusting their combat
armour.
    “This way – hurry.” Spoke the Rabbit. “Our medic is
through here.”
Silverfox did as she was instructed, feeling out of place amongst all these
military like Meldaron’s. When they entered, a snow-white rabbit, dressed
in an old blood spattered coat looked up, then shook her head and gently closed
the eyes on a Pearldinean foot soldier.
    “There was nothing – I could do to him.” She sniffled.
“His wounds were too extensive.”
    “Please – ” Deerinea begged. “Can you come help my
mate?”
Efficiently, the medic instructed Silverfox and Mack to lay Whitetail down on
a narrow table. Working quickly, she cut away the straps on his armoured breastplate,
then threw it aside.
    “This wound is deep – ” Sniffled the medic. “He’s
lost a lot of blood.”
    “Alexis, I know you can heal him….” Replied the older
Lapine.
    “I will do my best – of that you may be assured.” Replied
the medic. “I will do my best.”
    “That is all that I ask – ” Deerinea replied. “I have
faith in your healer skills.”

    Deerinea stared at Whitetail, and
then she glanced over at Mack, Silverfox and Glider.
    “You three go get yourselves some rest – you’ve
earned it.” Deerinea spoke, her voice soft, but touched with the underlying
command of a militarily trained person.
    “How can we rest?” Mack whimpered.
“Easily. You can’t fight the enemy if you’re half-starved and dead
on your feet. This war is yet to really begin…and you’ll all need
to be well rested, as we have a very long journey ahead of us in a few days.

    “A….”
    “Yes – we’re moving on in a few days.” Deerinea
snapped. “Now go!”
Quickly, Mack, Silverfox and Glider fled.  Turning her attention to the
badly wounded Whitetail, Alexis spoke softly.
    “They’re young – “
    Deerinea sighed softly. “Aye – that they are….
That they are indeed….”
    “Watch that young Wolf – he’s potentially the
most unstable.”
    “Mack? He’s a good Tashan….”
    Putting down her scalpel, the medic looked at her. “Are you
sure? I sense that he’s not altogether with it.”
    “I know that – but none of us…have yet had time
to work this through. Those damn Schinicin’s came at us so quickly….”

    “Aye…that they did. Still…watch him. As for
the others, the hyooman is an enigma to me, and that vixen….”

    “Her name is Silverfox. Silverfox Relah Star…. Her
grandfather was a hero of the great Meldaron war, and her father likewise. Silverfox
knows how to take orders – but I am doubtful, if she is capable of giving
them.”
Alexis cleaned the wound, then retrieved a small electronic device. Strapping
it to Whitetail’s head, she resumed working.
    “Listen – you’re in need of rest yourself. Go
and get cleaned up, fed and for Millar’s sake, get some sleep! How long
have you been awake?”
    “About – four days.” Admitted Deerinea.
    “That’s too long. As you said to them youngsters…you’ll
not be any-good to anyone, if you’re too weak to fight.”
    “Is that an order?” Deerinea asked.
    “Take it as – a polite request. Your mate is safe…for
the moment. I’ll work on him, and try to bring him around.”

    Deerinea was torn between her concern
and love for her mate, and her very real need to get some sleep. Finally, knowing
that the medic needed to work, Deerinea took the hint and left the chambers.
Quickly, Deerinea made her way to the small mess hall, where she met the three
friends.
    “What news can you share with us?” Silverfox asked.

    “Not much, as I really need to speak with the commanding
officer of this post.” Deerinea replied quietly.
    “Will Whitetail survive?” Mack asked.
    “Whitetail’s strong…he’ll come through
it alright.” Deerinea sighed, then set her fork down.
    “This secret base – ” Glider began.
    “Is located in the Unknown Hills.” Deerinea spoke. “It’s
well shielded, built literally, inside the largest mountain in that desolate
range. There, the remaining Meldaron forces will gather, and from there, shall
we begin the planning in retaking Meldaron.”
    “It’s not going to be an easy battle…is it?”
Silverfox asked.
    “No….” Deerinea sighed sadly. “We were caught unprepared,
but our spirit isn’t broken, and that’s going to be our strongest
resolve. We are going to fight to reclaim our homelands…from the Schinicin
once and for all.”
    “How can we fight off the Schinicin fleet?” Glider asked.
“Our own space fleet has either been routed or destroyed.”
    “There is more than one way to win a war….” Deerinea
replied, her eyes glazing softly.
    “We’ll fight – won’t we?” Silverfox asked
the others.
    “Without a doubt….” Glider replied his young face
hardening with his resolve.

    Mack remained silent, his muzzle betraying
his worried thoughts, which twisted within him. Silverfox reached out and hugged
the young and frightened Mack to her tightly.
    “It’s all going to turn out alright Mack – there’s
no need to worry.”
    Mack looked at Silverfox. “How can you be so certain? We’ve
already lost many of our major cities…and our military forces have been
decimated….”
    “Then all the more reason for us to fight!” Silverfox growled.
“They invaded us once before…and we repelled them. Now, are we going
to roll on our backs in submission to them? Or are we going to make a stand.
We need to draw a line – and Meldaron, by Millar’s name, is that
line. This far – no further….”
Deerinea sat and listened thoughtfully to Silverfox. Indeed, Silverfox showed
much promise as a commander for the upcoming battle. Her resolve was tempered
by her deeply held love for her friends and people…but her ability to
give orders needed some refinement.
    “Get some sleep….” Deerinea told them. “Tomorrow,
we’re going to try and get a transport out of this city….”

    “A…what.” Glider asked.
    “It’s too far a distance to travel on foot –
” Deerinea commented. “By the time we got out of here – the battle would
be over. For good or ill.”
    “Are you crazy?” Mack whined. “Any spaceships caught are
annihilated.”
    Deerinea smiled weakly. “Let’s just say – I’ve
got some contacts…. Amongst those, I have a lot of Meldaron friends,
who owe me large favours. It’s time to call some of them in.”
    Silverfox looked at Deerinea strangely. “You’re a military
officer…aren’t you.”
    Deerinea smiled even weaker – then nodded her antlered
head.  “It shows that much?”
    Silverfox smiled softly. “In ways…. So, what division
are you serving under?”

    Deerinea sighed. “I am a member of
the Meldaron military – that’s no secret. I am a covert operations
officer. Whitetail is the actual…” Deerinea stumbled for the right word.
“Field Operative in the field. I receive the information, and it is up to me
to priorate the mission parameters, then relay them to the field operatives
and troops.”
    “You’re a spook?” Mack asked.
Deerinea withered him with a look, making Mack cringe back in trepidation.

    “Mack – we are not spooks as the slang nickname
is for us. We are field operatives, working for the Meldaron military forces.
Sadly, since the war really took strength, we’ve been cut off from communications
with our other operatives. We fear that they’ve either been captured –
or killed. Naturally, any and all operatives are well trained, and will never
break under torture or duress. They will die to withhold their secret information
on the Meldaron military deployment and their secretive objectives.”

    “Is it any secret – what brought you to Foxville?”
Silverfox asked.
    “We were hunting for a potential turn-coat. One of our other
field operatives had been killed in the line of duty, and she bore vital information
on the Schinicin’s. Naturally, this information is of the highest security
classification…and she was meant to meet us in Foxville. Sadly, she was
betrayed – and summarily executed by those who are sworn to work against
us.”
    “Is that – ” Silverfox began.
    “Yes – ” Deerinea replied sadly. “That weasel was
one of the fallen. A once talented field operative, which turned upon the Meldaron’s
and sided with the Schinicin. They don’t realise what they’ve done
to us…and to themselves. Once the Schinicin have drained them of all
the information they have – they’ll be executed.

    “What of the information?” Glider
asked.
    “It was recovered – and has since been passed through
other channels, and will be disseminated at the secret base. It is hoped,
that a weakness can be found and exploited….”
    “How?” Glider asked. “Sure – it is true we beat them
once before – but now….”
    Deerinea sighed, the pushed away her barely touched meal.

    “As I said – it is hoped, that this information, obtained
through covert means, will help our high command, to find a weakness in the
Schinicin forces…. If possible.”
With that, Deerinea rose and walked from the mess hall, shaking her head softly.
Silverfox watched her go wondering what her friends and Silverfox herself, had
become involved in.

    Drawing comfort from her memories
of her fathers’ victories against the evil Schinicin’s, Silverfox’s
resolve hardened in to the cold sharp steel of her firm resolve. Even if no
weakness in the Schinicin could be found, Silverfox was positive, that she would
no rest, until she had done all she could – to avenge what had befallen
her once beautiful world…and her people.  Indeed…the Schinicin
would regret ever taking on this world…and her people….

    A few days passed as they waited for
Whitetail to regain some of his strength. News slowly comes too them all, of
the extent of the Schinicin invasion and conquest. Many of the Meldaron cities
were firmly under Schinicin rule, or pounded in to radioactive wastelands. Millions
of Meldaron’s had perished, and hundreds of thousands were being routinely
rounded up and sent to re-education camps. Silverfox wept when she heard
this disturbing news, as she knew all too well, just what these camps were….
They were death camps, where many of the Meldaron’s would suffer terrible
deaths, waiting for a rescue, that would never come. Late one evening, Whitetail
came to the three friends quarters.
    “Silverfox – ” Whitetail whispered. “It is time….”

    “We’re moving out?” Silverfox asked.
    “Within the hour. Raise the others and prepare for deployment.”
He rasped.
    “Are you well enough to travel?” Silverfox asked, noting
how tender he looked.
    “I’m well enough…. We’ve already wasted
too much time.” Whitetail spoke brusquely.
    “Has – ” Silverfox began.
    “There’s little time. Come on, get the others and let’s
move.”

    Silverfox came alive energised by
the voice of authority within Whitetail’s speech. Contrary to what Silverfox
would have said, she was raised to obey orders, and Silverfox knew better
than to argue with one in authority. Quickly, Silverfox woke the others, then
they prepared their meagre possessions and equipment. Whitetail watched them,
then sighed softly.
    “I don’t have a lot of time – so let’s
make it quick. I do not mean to come down on you kids hard…but on the
other paw, I do not have time to play nursemaid to a bunch of pups. Have any
of you – had any military experience?”
Silverfox raised her paw, and after a few moments, Mack raised his tentatively.

    “What about you – Glider?” Whitetail asked.

    “Sorry…next to none.” Glider replied hesitantly.

    “Well enough. Okay, let’s get you pups outfitted in
to your new equipment. Silverfox, I see that you’re already armed and
armoured…. Care to get some newer armour?” Whitetail asked.
    “I’d die – before I parted with this….”
Silverfox whispered softly.
    “It is….” Whitetail began.

    “This belonged to my father…who
served the King in the great Meldaron war. Now, I wish to follow in my fathers
footsteps, and honour his spirit.”
    “A noble cause my young Tashan. That is a highly commendable
and noble cause. Come on…we’ve got a lot of work to do…and
a little time….”
    “Where’s Deerinea?” Mack asked.
    “Deerinea is out seeing about obtaining some transportation
out of here….” Whitetail spoke, then chased them from the room.

Quickly, Whitetail led them down to the small armoury, where they were properly
outfitted with heavy field packs and weapons. Whitetail took an easily concealed
heavy pistol, as well as a concealed sniping rifle. Mack was equipped with a
laser rifle and an equally efficient pistol, which he belted at his waist. Silverfox
contented herself with a concealed pistol and spare clips for her fathers pulse
rifle.
    “These packs weigh a ton!” Mack moaned, as Glider helped
him to lift it.
    “That they do….” Whitetail conceded. “However, they
will keep you alive. Within each pack, are two weeks worth of supplies, and
other necessary equipment. Also, there is a fully stocked field kit, which will
be used if in the advent of being wounded in the field.”
    “We’re going to see combat?” Glider asked.
Whitetail looked sternly at them.

    “Naturally…” Silverfox commented.
“That’s what it is all about. Is the reclamation of our world…isn’t
it?”
    Whitetail nodded in agreement. “Aye my young vixen. That
it is indeed. We defeated the Schinicin once before…and this time –
we’re going to do it right. Once and for all.”
    “Is there any news on other systems in this sector?” Glider
whispered.
    “No news as of yet – but there will be no doubt that
the Schinicin forces are blockading this world…and once it’s firmly
subjugated, they will move on and subjugate the other surrounding systems.”

    “Then my own home-world….” Glider asked.
    “If we’re fortunate here…then the other surrounding
systems will be saved. At least, it is hoped, that they will have received word
of the Imperial attack here – and they will be more prepared, than sadly,
we were.” Whitetail spoke. “Come on – it’s time we made our move.”

Slipping their heavy packs on to their backs, the three friends followed Whitetail
from the armoury and down in to the main meeting room. Here, over three dozen
Meldaron’s were gathered, awaiting the orders to come through.

    An old Tashan, an elderly wolf, his
muzzle greyed with age, took the podium and cleared his throat in a rasping
cough.
    “My fellow compatriots….  As we are all painfully
aware, our world was caught unprepared – for the Schinicin invasion. However,
we’re gathering all our remaining forces, in hopes of making it to the
Unknown Hills, from whence, we shall plan the reclamation of our world. I can
not lie to you…to any of you. This war is going to be long –
and only Millar knows how many more will die…in this struggle to liberate
our world.”  He paused and resumed his speech.  “Schinicin forces
have over-run our world…and many of our military forces have been decimated.
This is unfortunate, and it is in you…the young, that we place our greatest
hopes.”
    He paused, then stepped aside. “Lt. Deerinea, if you will….”
He spoke.

    Lt. Deerinea took the podium, then
spoke, quietly her voice filled with her dread.
    “We’ve managed to arrange for transports off of Foxville.
Sadly, some of these transports are filling rapidly, and we can’t hope
to transport everyone to the base in the Unknown Hills. Many of you will have
to try and make it there on your own…and we hope that we’ll see
you there. If you can not find transport from this city, then your orders are
to disband and scatter throughout the safe houses around Foxville, and do what
you can to assist those others, who are still being oppressed by the Schinicin
forces. This mission is of utmost importance to us all, and may Millar watch
over you all….”
With that, the gathered Meldaron’s scattered to their assigned orders,
each of them wondering if they would live to see the liberation of their home
world from the Schinicin Empire. Whitetail met up with Deerinea and the other
three friends.
    “I’ve arranged for a independent meeting with a trader.
We’ve got to meet him at the Wounded Guldarian in thirty-five minutes.
Let’s move out.” Deerinea spoke.
Quickly, the three friends followed Deerinea out of the warehouse and down dim
back alleys, until they made their way to the assigned rendezvous point. Hiding
their equipment, they entered the bar casually, each acting independently of
the others.

    Sweet, pungent smoke filled the bar,
and the low murmur of voices hummed softly. Deerinea made her way back to a
dim corner of the booths, where she sat casually. Whitetail took a casual position
at the bar, but kept a careful eye on her. Silverfox, Mack and Glider sat at
another booth, not far from where Deerinea sat. They looked out of place there,
even though they tried to be inconspicuous. After a few moments, Deerinea’s
contact came up to her and sat down opposite her. He was a native of the Netherworld
Cliffs, a predominantly catlike race. His long yellowish mane was of extensive
length, worn in a loose ponytail that cascaded down his back. A barely concealed
heavy pistol was evident in a shoulder harness underneath his black trench coat
that he wore. His eyes looked furtive but wary.
    “I’m Drak. You want transport out of here?” He spoke
his voice soft and cautious.
    Deerinea nodded quickly. “Can you arrange it?”
    He laughed scornfully, making Deerinea cautious.  “You
want to hire me…to transport you out of here – and out-run those
Schinicin warships?”
    “That was the plan.” Deerinea commented.
    “Nothing easier – but what’s the cargo?” He laughed
again.
    “Myself – some supplies and a few companions.” Deerinea
told him.
    “I see – well…out-running the Imperials is one
thing…evading their star-fighters, that’s quite another.
It’s going to cost you….”

    Deerinea snorted. “I knew there would
be a catch. Name it.”
    “If you want to risk it yourself – ” Drak grated. “It’s
no fur off my muzzle. I’m content to sit here and wait it out….”

    “I’ve heard you’re good – real good.”

    “So you’ve heard of my reputation have you? I’ve
outrun those lumbering Star-Crushers before…no big deal.” Drak smiled
wolfishly.
    “How much?” Deerinea sighed, knowing that she was over a
barrel.
    “Well – that depends. Where you want to go?”

    Deerinea was hesitant, and leaned in close. “We need transport
to the Eye of Infinity….”
    Drak leaned back, then put his feet up on the table. 
“You want to be transported to the temple?”
    “That’s right.”
    “That’s a fair travel – and the Schinicin’s
are fairly thick out that way…rumour has it that there’s a Meldaron
base out that way. A handsome reward is being posted for that bases location….”

    “We all know what rumours are – ” Deerinea countered.

    Drak laughed sceptically.
    “So – what’s the cost of transportation to the
Temple of the Eye of Infinity?” Deerinea hedged.
    “Well – it’s risky – ” Drak replied.

    “It can be done of course….”
    “Oh – there’s no doubt in that. It can be
done…but it’s going to cost you – 30,000 credits.”

    “What?” Deerinea exploded.
    “That’s my contract price – take it or leave
it. As I said, it’s no fur off my muzzle. Stay here if you like –
or find another pilot.”
Deerinea was trapped – she knew that. Desperate for an answer, she cast
about, wondering how she could get herself and her companions safely to the
Temple.
    “I doubt that you’ll find any other pilot of
measurable skill – or willingness to risk their ship and their life….”
Drak smiled cruelly.
    “30k?” Deerinea moaned. “That’s extortion!”

    “Well – you want out of here?” Come Drak’s scathing
reply.

    Whitetail appeared out of seemingly
thin air, then sat beside Deerinea. Drak was momentarily thrown off his guard
by the surprising appearance.
    “Listen – ” Whitetail spoke, his voice soft but filled
with the hint of menace. “We can pay you ten thousand now…and an additional
thirty-five when we reach the destination….”
    Drak blinked. “45k?”
Whitetail stared at him intently, forcing the young upstart mercenary panther
to look away hurriedly.
    “Alright – a deal. My ship, the Meldaron Conquest,
is in landing bay twelve. Be there in fifteen minutes….”
Deerinea opened her mouth to speak, but a covert kick from Whitetail silenced
her.
    “A pleasure doing business with you….” Whitetail spoke.
“Bay twelve….”
Drak rose on decidedly shaky legs, and returned to the bar. Whitetail looked
at Deerinea and she leaned in close.
    “Just how are we going to come up with that sort of
credits?”  Deerinea moaned.
    Whitetail smiled softly then slipped his hood up over his
head. “I’ve got my ways….”
    “Whitetail – ” Deerinea moaned.
    “It’s legal – believe me. I got some old friends
in places…who owe me favours. I think it is time to call them all in.”

    “What makes you think they’ll still be here?”

    “Because I know they will be. Sadly, they operate
both with and without the law.”
    “Smugglers?”
    “Amongst other things….”

    As suddenly as he appeared, Whitetail
was gone again, leaving Deerinea to sit and think for a moment, before she gestured
to the others.
    “We’ve got a transport vessel. Be at landing bay twelve
in ten minutes….” Deerinea told them.
    “Is it safe?” Mack whimpered.
    “As safe as it’s going to be….” Deerinea sighed.
“Come on, let’s get out of here….”
Silverfox rose, then watched Mack and Glider’s hesitant expressions.

    “Come on – we do not have all day!” Deerinea hissed.
“We’ve got a long war ahead of us…and we don’t want to be
late!”
They made their way from the bar, and retrieved their equipment. None of them
saw the furtive black cloaked figure stalk them, then speak quietly in to a
small-concealed transmitter….

    Foxville Spaceport – Docking
Bay Twelve

    Deerinea led the three companions
to the spaceport-docking bay, where they found the old star-ship parked. Drak
was there, supervising the restocking of his ship by the flight crew droids.

    “This heap is going to get us past the Schinicin star-fighter
blanket?” Glider asked.
    “Do not look a gift horse in the mouth hyooman.” Drak
seethed. “I’ve spent a lot of my own personal time, credits and effort
on this ship. Albeit she doesn’t look like a great deal on the outside,
but she’s amongst this fastest this side of the galaxy. If you’d
be so kind as to get inside, I’ll finish up here and we’ll get on
our way.”
Deerinea made her way inside, and then Glider followed. Silverfox waited at
the entrance of the ramp, her hand resting on one of the supporting struts.
Something tingled warningly at the back of her mind, and her fears were realised,
as a squad of twelve Schinicin infantry stormed the docking bay!
    “You there! Halt!” Snarled a Schinicin soldier.

    “Oh sweet Millar!” Drak screamed then ran up inside the ship.
“Come on you Vixen…we’re leaving !”

    Pulse laser fire ripped in to the
docking bay walls and the ship, as Silverfox squealed and rolled under cover
of the ship. Hurriedly, Silverfox shed the heavy pack, then un-holstered her
own heavy pistol. Firing blindly, Silverfox shot wildly at one of the Schinicin
soldiers, then ducked back under cover. Above her, Silverfox heard the freighter
warming up its engines.
    “Silverfox!” Glider screamed from above. “Come on!”

Silverfox screamed, as a blaster bolt ricocheted off the hull, near her head.

    “I can’t! They’ve got me pinned down!” Silverfox
wept, as she fired again, dropping one of the soldiers.
A torrential hail of pulse laser fire returned her shot, spanging off the thick
hull plating of the ship. Up inside the ship, Drak cursed and swore, as he fought
the ship, trying to get its engines up to warmth.
    “Do something!” Glider wailed. “Silverfox will be cut to
ribbons out there!”
Drak snarled, then slapped a button on the console of the bridge. A secret panel
opened up underneath the ship and a tri-fire pulse rifle appeared and opened
fire. Schinicin soldiers scattered, seeking shelter from the deadly fire from
the ship. Silverfox made good her opportunity to escape, and ran up the ramp,
the Schinicin laser fire nipping at her heels.

    “Get us the hell out of here!” Deerinea
wailed, as she slapped the hatch controls closed.
Drak snarled, then applied more power to the still cold star-drives. There was
a sickening groaning sound, then the shipboard control systems blinked out.

    “You son of a….” Drak growled, then belted it again.

To his surprise, the shipboard control systems flared back in to life.

    “What about Whitetail?” Mack whined. “We’ve got to
wait for him!”
    “There is no time!” Deerinea growled. “He’ll catch
up to us…he always does.”
    “Hang on people…this is where the fun begins….”
Drak grated, as he heaved the star-ship up off the docking bay floor. Schinicin
soldiers fired vainly, their laser blasts ricocheting off the ship as it thundered
in to the sky….

    Aboard the leading Star-Crusher, Grand
Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis glared at the monitor.
    “I thought all ships were grounded….” He snarled.

    “Sire – this vessel isn’t one of ours.” Came
the response.
    “Then deal with it…scramble the star-fighters to shoot
it down.” Sith Hirr Draconis raged.
Immediately, the order was relayed to the flight commanders’ groundside.
Within moments, the fighters were scrambling.
    “Shoot it down…I don’t care what it takes!”
Sith Hirr Draconis snarled. “I want it destroyed!”
Quickly, the fighters rose in to the sky, then vectored for an intercept flight
path. Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis watched impatiently displeased that a
lone star-ship had the tenacity to try and outrun the Imperial blockade of Meldaron.

    “Keep me informed of the proceedings…and ensure a
total immobilisation of non-authorised star-ships in that spaceport.” Sith Hirr
Draconis growled, as he rose from his throne and swept from the bridge. 
“I don’t care what it takes, I will not tolerate ineptitude.”
    “Sire….”
    “Just do it!” Sith Hirr Draconis snarled, as he stormed
from the bridge.

    “Oh great – ” Drak moaned, as
the threat indicators lit up on his ship.
    “Now what?” Deerinea spoke, as she came up on to the bridge.

    “We’ve got company…. At least six Schinicin
star-fighters vectoring in on our flight-path.”
    “Can you out-run them?” Silverfox asked.
    “No….” Drak replied tersely. “They’re a lot
more manoeuvrable and faster than we are.”
    “Oh great – ” Mack sniffled. “We’re going to
die!”
    “Would you shut up!” Deerinea suddenly snapped, turning on
Mack. “We’re not going to die.”
Mack looked at her, then burst in to tears and fled the bridge. Silverfox stared
at Deerinea, then went to comfort her friend.
    “Deerinea – ” Glider spoke.
    “I don’t have time to play nursemaid to a pup….”
Deerinea growled. “Now…Drak, does this tub have armaments?”
Drak stared back at her, then cursed as a laser blast struck the ship from behind,
making it jump.
    “This old girl has quad laser turrets, top and bottom. Any
of you know how to operate a star-ships guns?”
    “I’m well versed in their use….” Deerinea snapped
tensely. “Glider – with me.”
    “Make it quick!” Drak wailed, as the ship thundered and rocked,
under heavy fire.

    Deerinea scrambled up to the topside
gun tower and Glider slid down the shaft in to the bottom turret position. Here,
he strapped himself in to the gunnery seat, then activated the gun controls.
Again, the ship rocked and a sickening squeal came from the superstructure of
the ship, as Drak fought against the ship itself, attempting to evade the laser
fire. When the on-board capacitors had charged, Glider gripped the gun fire
controls, then began scanning for the fighters.
    “Four from behind – one from above and one below!”
Came Deerinea’s reply over the shipboard communications.
Again, the ship screamed, as the Schinicin fighters tore in to it’s shielding.
Glider attempted to track the swift fighters, but his laser fire tracked empty
air.
    “They’re too quick!” Glider groaned. “I can’t
track them!”
    “Deactivate the gunnery computer!” Drak swore. “Go natural…trust
your own instincts!”
Once more, the ship was battered, and then a sub-sonic shudder ran through the
vessels’ superstructure. Deerinea gritted her teeth, then fired swiftly, tracking
in a 180^o arc, and she was rewarded with watching one of the Schinicin
fighters erupt in to an incandescent ball of flames.
    “Scratch one Schinicin fighter!” Deerinea squealed in pleasure.

    “Do not get overconfident back there…” Drak yelled
back. “There’s still more of them out there…. Get busy people,
shield integrity strengths are falling concurrently.”

    Glider growled, then resumed fighting
against the guns natural predisposition. To his surprise, a Schinicin fighter
screamed directly towards him, and he didn’t hesitate, in filling the
fighter full of high-energy laser fire. It exploded and its’ flaming wreckage
plummeted back down towards the planet below, burning out of control. Glider
had no time in which to celebrate his victory, as the remaining four fighters
mercilessly pounded the ship from behind and below. There was a sickening lurch,
and Drak snarled.
    “Get real busy…. One decent hit on our back
quarter and we’ve had it…. That last hit has taken out one of our
drives…and destroyed the magnetic casing about the star-drives. Come
on…take them out!” Drak grated, as the ship lurched and bucked, under
merciless assault from the remaining fighters….
Deerinea twisted about then adjusted her gun sights quickly, before she ran
her guns across the nose of a Schinicin fighter. It immediately banked…straight
in the flight path of another fighter. Together, the two star-fighters erupted
in to flames, their wreckage falling from the sky, leaving a trail of debris
and smoke. Drak swore, then a loud braying alarm ripped through the ship.

    “What in Meldaron is that ?” Silverfox asked.

    “Damn them!” Drak wailed. “They’ve hit the main power
conduits! We’re losing power – she’s lost…get to the
escape pods!”
Drak activated the escape pod routines, then ran past the others and slammed
open the emergency pod bulkheads.
    “Get in…hurry!” Drak wailed.
    Beneath their feet, the ship buckled and rocked violently,
as there was a loud explosion far back in the engine bay.
    “GO!” Drak barked. “We’re out of time! This
puppy’s going to blow!”

    They barely managed to scramble madly
in to the escape pod, then had the hatch seal closed, before the ship began
to explode. Seconds after their pod had jettisoned; the ship erupted in to a
ball of flames and debris, sending the pod hurtling out of control – down
towards the planet below….
    “Get in the…safety…webbing….” Deerinea
moaned, the enormous G-forces beginning to crush them.
    “I…can’t breathe….” Glider gasped.

    Summoning every ounce of strength she had, Silverfox managed
to somehow drag Mack in to the webbing and Deerinea rescued Glider. Silverfox
began gasping, her ribs cracking under the incredible stresses that the pod
was enduring. All of them felt it, Mack worst of all. There was a sickening
wet snap, and then blood began frothing on his muzzle, as his thick armour broke
four of his ribs.  Silverfox moaned in pain, knowing that there was nothing
she could do to save her beloved friend…. Heat from the upper atmosphere
made the temperature in the pod rise to almost hideously painful thresholds,
as the climate control computers struggled to restore balance.
    “Warning…stabilising jets malfunction. Impact in moments.
Repeat, stabilising jets malfunction. Pod misfiring…imminent impact…please
brace for impact.” Spoke the on-board pod control computers.
Mack began gurgling, his eyes rolling back in his head, as his crushing armour
further drove the broken ribs inside of him. Silverfox and the others could
do nothing…except wait…and pray that the safety webbing around
them, would save them from the imminent impact….

    Aboard the Schinicin flagship, a young
lieutenant came to Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis’ quarters.

    “Come – ” Was the response.
Hesitantly, the young reptilian officer swallowed then entered the cavernous
chamber. Sith Hirr Draconis sat in a massive throne, his back to the officer,
as he perused the myriad displays that were reflected on the wall before him.

    “Yes Lieutenant….” Come the Grand Admiral’s
soft hiss.
    “Sire…the star-ship….”
Slowly, the Grand Admiral turned to look back over his shoulder.
    “Sir – the star-ship…was destroyed, as per your
orders.” Spoke the officer nervously.
    “Any assurances of this Lieutenant?” Asked Sith Hirr Draconis,
as he returned to watching the screens.
    “Sire – there were no signs of escape…but a
pod was jettisoned prior to the ship exploding. The explosion of the craft impeded
life-sign telemetry, but the pod was seen plunging towards Meldaron. Sir –
it is highly unlikely, due to external visual damage to the pod, that anyone
is alive….”
    “Are you so certain in this regard Lieutenant?” Spoke the
Grand Admiral.
    “I….”
    “Answer me lieutenant.”
    “Sir – I’ll order an immediate patrol to sweep
the area.”
    “Excellent Lieutenant…you show promise after all.
Have the patrol sweep the area…and have them do a thorough ground search
as well. I want any possible survivors found…and brought to me personally.”

    “Sire?”
    “You have your orders lieutenant…see to them.”

    “At once sire.”

    Quickly, the young officer bowed and
left the chamber, grateful to still be alive. Sith Hirr Draconis sat and pondered,
then changed the view-screens, to the battle schematic of the war on Meldaron.
He sat and watched the flickering projections and reports, then switched the
view to an external camera outside the flagship. In orbit nearby, he could see
the other Star-Crushers in their assigned positions, awaiting further orders.
Below, hung the blue green planet Meldaron, which had proven to be far too easy
in taking. Sith Hirr Draconis was not foolish – and he knew, instinctively,
that the Meldaron’s were planning a counter-strike. What he did not know,
and what enraged him, was where their secret base was located. His spies had
little to report, on the location, even though the Grand Admiral had personally
ordered a reward of a half million credits, for the person who told the Schinicin
where the secret Meldaron base was.  He knew it existed, but its location
was most elusive. It angered him, but also, gave him some perverse pleasure,
in this cat and mouse campaign, that the Meldaron’s seemed to want to
wage against the mighty Schinicin Empire. In an odd way, he admired them. They
fought with a tenacity and righteousness that was deceiving in such a race.
He found it mildly refreshing, considering how many other systems, that he had
personally led the conquest on – and how one system, when offered twenty
four hours to surrender…the entire population committed mass suicide.
He found that a surprise, but it made capturing the world all that much easier.

    In his centuries of life, he had searched
for a foe worthy of his time and attention…and in the Meldaron’s,
he believed…that he might just have found such a challenge – or
so he hoped….

    Drawing a deep breath of the swirling
chlorine gas aboard his ship – the Grand Admiral smiled softly…and
cruelly. Indeed, he had hopes, this battle would shape up to be all that he
had ever wanted – and deserved. Naturally, the Meldaron’s would
fall; it was a foregone conclusion. Still, Sith Hirr Draconis drew pleasure
from their futile attempts to strike back at the far stronger military armada,
which held it’s blanketing orbit over their world. Once the Meldaron’s
had succumb, his orders were to move on through the galaxy, and conquer the
most elusive prize of all, the fabled star system Sol, with its planet Terra.
It was rumoured that from Terra sprang the hyooman race, which in turn gave
rise to the anthropomorphic animals. Grand Admiral exhaled then called up the
ancient legends and lore of the mystical Terra.  With a moment’s
pause, the computer beeped and produced the documented history for his immediate
perusal….

Star System                               
: Sol
System Composition                
: One yellow star, nine planets in system
System Life forms Present    
: Terran’s
System Information                 
: System information is available on many different aspects of this system.
Please specify area of inquiry.

    “Terra….” Spoke the Grand Admiral
softly.

Terra                                            
: Third planet in system Sol. Inhabited by native Terran race, also called hyooman.
Terra has a predominantly oxygen rich atmosphere, along with high levels of
many toxic pollutants. Residual radiation levels are deadly to many races on
much of terra, but some areas are defined as clean. Estimated population pre-world
war III, 300 billion. Estimated populations post WW III – 132 Million.
Terrans are terraforming the world back in to it’s pre-atomic war age,
but the process is expected to take upwards of five thousand years.

    “Display information on military predisposition
of Terran space defence and ground force deployments.” Asked the Grand Admiral.

Terra – Military
Status Report     : Terran Military status. Terra has well
defined space capability. Pre-atomic war stage, the Terran military forces had
intra-system space flight warships. Global Earth Defence laser systems were
integrated in to existing military sub-systems. Large military outpost and spaceport
colonised on Luna surface, with outposts scattered throughout the system, including
long range scanning post established on Pluto, last planet in system.

    “Computer, estimate approximate time
for conquest of Terra and subsequent subjugation of said planet in to the Schinicin
Empire.” Asked the Grand Admiral. “Correction, clarify post war status on military
force deployment and approximation of military strengths and possible length
of time to subjugate world in to the Empire, both with and without destruction
of Terran Outposts and Lunar Colony.

    Working….

Terra – Current
Military Status     : Post atomic era – orbital laser
defences still active, but not used. Space travel is just now returning to the
sleeper class transport.

    “Computer, clarify Sleeper class
transports.”

    Working….

Sleeper
Class Transports            
: Sleeper Class Transports employ old ion-drives, with military personnel on-board,
asleep in cryogenic stasis for much of the duration of the flight. Sleeper class
transports are slow, taking many standard Terran months, to reach the nearest
Military Outposts, on IO and Europa.

    “Computer – length of time spent
in transit to destination Outpost.”

Sleeper
Class Transports take upwards of one standard Terran year, to reach IO or Europa
outposts. Takes in excess of four years to reach Pluto outpost.

    “Clarify – cause of atomic devastation
on Terra….”

Cause of Terran War                
: Analysis of antiquated Terran satellites reveal that cause for world wide
irradiation and massive loss of life is due in sole to Terran’s turning
over defence surveillance to automated systems. Information has it that said
defence systems became self-aware and foreseen it’s own demise. 
It initiated the atomic war, in attempts to destroy all Terran’s, that it perceived
as threats to its newfound intelligence and awareness.  Systems were specifically
designed to withstand nuclear war, but the system did not understand that in
destroying it’s enemies, that it in effect, was heralding it’s own
demise.

    “Return to original request of information…”

Request?

    “Correction, clarify post war status
on military force deployment and approximation of military strengths and possible
length of time to subjugate world in to the Schinicin Empire, both with and
without destruction of Terran Outposts and Lunar Colony.” Spoke the Grand Admiral.

    Working….

Terran Military Force            
: Terran Military force deployment with previous flight capability is being
investigated and developed. Global Earth Defence system fully active and online.
Large military presence on IO and Europa, as outposts and an even larger posting
on Luna surface. Large numbers of military class battle cruisers and smaller
supporting ships in evidence on outposts and lunar post.  Estimation of
time required for subjugation and pacification of Terran Military forces based
on current data.  Estimation is four standard Terran months, for total
system wide subjugation of Terran Military forces.

    “Computer, estimate probability time
factor for subjugation and pacification of Terra, without destruction of Terran
Military outposts.” Asked the Grand Admiral, as he read the relevant data that
scrolled past him.

    Working….

Subjugation of Terra        
: Estimation time and expenditure of subjugating and pacifying Terra, post destruction
of outposts…estimated time is five standard Terran years. Schinicin losses
estimated at ninety-eight procreant of naval fleet, and sixty-nine percent loss
of ground forces deployed.

    Slowly, the realisation spread across
the mind of the Schinicin Grand Admiral.
    “Computer, are these estimations based on current naval fleet
and deployment strengths?”

    Working…

Negative. Estimated that
entire Schinicin fleet is deployed and ground forces mobilised. Accounting for
time spent in transit compared to production facilities of Terra, Schinicin
losses rise accordingly.

    “Computer, define estimated overall
battle outcome with total deployment of naval fleet and ground forces. Factor
in all aspects of the battle, down to the last creature taking the field.” Asked
the Grand Admiral.

Working…

Estimation of time before
computations completed, based on current information and stellar time…six
weeks.

    “Computer, utilise any and all available
non-essential computational sub-systems to analyse and report on request.” Demanded
the Grand Admiral.

    Working….

Revised Estimation Time
Completion : One stellar month, fifty-six hours, 42 minutes, sixteen seconds,
0.92 microseconds, 0.012….

    “Computer…” Asked the Grand
Admiral. “I don’t need a millisecond breakdown on the analysis….
Just make the computations and let me know when you have an answer….”

    Working….

    It’s outer heat-shielding burning
away, the out of control pod hurtled down through the upper atmosphere, then
as if Millar herself was watching over them, it crashed heavily in to the dark
and churning waters of the great Netherworld Cliffs river. Immediately, the
pod began sinking in to the black depths of the river, its outer shell creaking
as the pressure rose outside the hull.
    “Dear Millar….” Drak swore. “We’re alive!”

    “Not for long….” Deerinea moaned, as she struggled
free from the safety webbing.
A loud clang echoed through the pod, as it struck underwater rocks. Already,
moisture began beading on the inner walls of the creaking pod.
    “Mack…Mack!” Silverfox wailed, struggling to
awake her beloved friend.
    “Silverfox…” Glider whispered, as he ran a finger
across the moisture-condensed window. “He’s been badly hurt…but
we’ve got to get out of here….”
    “Alright…everyone shed whatever we can…” Deerinea
spoke. “When this pod is opened, the pressure is going to equalise. Take a deep
breath and shed what-ever items we don’t need, as we’re going to
have to swim for our lives….”

    Silverfox tearfully shed her fathers
armour and Glider managed to wrestle the unconscious and critically wounded
Mack out of his own armour. Stowing what equipment they could in one of their
packs, namely food rations, weapons and the barest of survival equipment, they
drew a great gulping breath. As Deerinea opened the pod door, a torrential flood
of water rushed in, and flattened them back against the bottom of the now rapidly
sinking pod. Struggling wildly, they managed to escape the pod, but the incredible
currents dragged them down deeper, despite their attempts to kick their way
towards what they assumed, was the surface….

    Below them, a stream of bubbles trickled
up, and then there was a dull concussive thud that ran through the water, as
the pod was crushed by the rising pressure. Struggling valiantly, they kicked
their way upwards, their lungs screaming for oxygen…. Just as their physical
strength gave out, they broke the surface of the river…to find the worst
storm in their lives, was lashing this part of the continent.  Gasping,
they dragged themselves up the shallow bank of the river, and lay convulsing
and choking. Silverfox turned to Mack, then her eyes widened in horror….

    “Mack…Mack!” Silverfox wailed, as she grabbed
him and slammed him hard against the riverbank. “ Mack!”
Glider stared at her, and then he noticed that Mack’s chest was still
– his eyes’ rolled back in his head. Tears of grief stung Glider’s
eyes, as he came to realise, his best friend, beside Silverfox, had drowned
in the rivers’ fury….

    Both Glider and Silverfox sat beside
their deceased friend for hours, as the torrential rain blasted down around
them. Drak and Deerinea felt sadness as well, but they gave the two friends
their personal space to grieve, and set about preparing the survival shelter.

    “Why?” Silverfox wailed, turning her muzzle towards the black
skies, the rain soaking her fur and blending with the rain on her cheeks. “Why
did he have to die? He had so much to live for….”
Glider’s rage overcome him, and he rose and turned his own face to the
torrential skies.
    “Why have you done this Millar?” Glider screamed at the sky.
“Why did you take one so young? Have you not been satiated with the loss of
thousands of your beloved young already? Or are you so cruel and callous, that
you would take away this young pup…just to spite those who have fought
in your name – to restore your own world to you? I despise you and your
beliefs! All my life, I’ve believed you were beneficent, a kind and loving
Deity, but now, you’re true self becomes known! I cast down my faith in
you, for you have no right to lay claim to these people…. For far too
long, have the Meldaron’s held you in the highest of regards, worshipping
you and believing that you would protect them! Only now, when they need you
the most…do you turn away from them! Why? Why have you forsaken your
followers, when they are crying out for deliverance amongst the darkness? I
revoke you…and all that you stand for….”

    Deerinea, Drak and Silverfox stared
in horror at Glider, as he continued his ceaseless tirade against Millar. They
truly believed that the Goddess would strike down Glider, and they pleaded with
him to refrain from his merciless lashing of their beloved Deity. He was inconsolable,
heaving the vilest of retorts against her and her priests that he could summon.
Indeed, the heavens heard, for the dark storm clouds above their pitiful camp,
began to seethe and twist about themselves.
    “I DARE you Millar…should you have the strength…then
strike me down! Do you have the courage to take yet another life? You have no
right to call yourself a Deity…for you are the lowest of the pitiful
– you…are…nothing ….” Glider screamed.

Deafening peals of thunder roared in the clouds overhead, striking morbid terror
in to the hearts of the Meldaron’s. Lightning ripped down from the clouds,
and Glider screamed in agony, as he vanished amidst a massive lightning strike….
Silverfox, Deerinea and Drak were flattened by the explosive blast, their eyes
blinded and their ears ringing….

    When they had recovered their vision
and their hearing, they heard heartbreaking sobbing…. Silverfox rose
from the mud, to see Glider standing, unharmed, by the lightning strike. His
head was bowed and tears ran down his face, to fall to the ground below him.
To their surprise, the rain broke apart and the clouds scattered, as a soft
voice echoed in their heads….
    “Glider, son of Isabella and Delnarion…child of
the Hyooman’s, hear me. You were right in of what you said of me…. I
have turned away from my young – for whom so desperately cry out in vain,
pleading for me to help them…. For what have I become? That I turn away
from my own young…when they cry out for salvation? You have been brave,
in challenging my authority in ruling the Meldaron people…. As a result
of your bravery, I hereby grant you the powers of the skies – the lightning,
which should have destroyed you, – will make you stronger. It is yours
too command, to use in defence of your friends and others who are in need….
Hundreds of thousands…have died…crying out for me to help them.
I have been blinded by my own powers…my own feelings, so as to block
out their anguished cries. ”  Softly, Millar pain filled voice spoke
to them once more.  “ No more will I stand back and allow my people
to suffer such torture and pain…. I can not change that which has happened,
nor can I change the possible outcome of this war, between the Meldaron’s
and the Schinicin’s. I may be a goddess, but even these things, are beyond
the Deities powers to change. My young have come of age – and it is in
this war, that they will either prosper and become adults, or they shall pass
in to the annuls of history, like so many other races…on so many other
worlds…before them. I can not foresee the future of this war, not that
I would wish too…. How many will die in this senseless slaughter? I can
not speak of such. Are mortals such narrowly minded creatures, that they seek
to impose their will on other races? I alone am the goddess of these people
– and it is upon my shoulders, falls the majority of the blame. Have I
been too self centred, in my own abilities, that I had forsaken my own young?
Or have I been over-protective, and shielded them all from so much – that
I risk losing them all because of my foolish pride?“

    Slowly, Silverfox, Deerinea and Drak
slumped to their knees in the mud, overwhelmed by the presence of their Deity.

    “I thank you Glider… for awakening the truth
within me….” Come the ethereal voice.
    “What of Mack Shazri? Why did you take his life?” Glider
wept in helpless grief.
    “I do not take lives my child – that is not
my nature. If it is this young pup’s time, then it is his
time. If it is not – then it is not. I do not take
lives, I only watch over them….”
    “Why then? Why are you forcing your people in to this senseless
war?”
    “I can not answer you that question …. It
is not I who decides the fates of my young; it is they themselves,
who decide their fates. I am only the keeper of those who have passed
on – I am nothing more…. I have but one last thing
to share with you….”