Deerinea worked beneath the immobilised
Schinicin tank, then after a few anxious moments, she found and severed the
controls to the destruct controls. Within moments, the other operatives had
neutralised any threat from the other tanks, and rejoined Deerinea and Glider.

    “Great work people…” Deerinea congratulated them.
“I didn’t expect such a windfall.”
    “Deerinea – how on Meldaron are – “
    “These tanks are not that dissimilar from our own Glider.
Indeed, they will be a worthy addition to our own heavily depleted forces. Now,
someone go find Whitetail, as I need to talk with him.” Deerinea spoke.

Quickly, a soldier left and found two temple acolytes – then asked them
to find Whitetail. Deerinea paced the courtyard, watching as the temple priests
and guards returned to cleansing the courtyard of the corpses and debris that
littered it.
    “I do not believe – ” Glider began. “That we survived
that battle….”

    Deerinea sighed softly, then ran her
paws over her head and down her neck.
    “Neither do I…. It seemed easy – far –
too easy. I know what the Schinicin are after…and I do not see why they
would only send in a minimal force to take it.”
    “Minimal?” Glider moaned. “You call that minimal?”

    Deerinea wilted him with a look.  “Yes Glider –
considering that the Star-Crusher’s carry – on average – over
twenty thousand troopers, seventeen thousand heavy assault vehicles, nine and
a half thousand support personnel and other personnel….”
Glider’s face paled.
    “So – you could say that I am quite surprised….”
Deerinea spoke. “Come on, let’s get out of here….”
Deerinea led Glider back through the temple, and in to the former Bishops reception
chamber. Here, Whitetail paced the chamber, cursing softly.
    “Whitetail – ” Deerinea began.
    “This doesn’t bode well, my beloved mate.” Whitetail
spoke, as he paced agitatedly.
Glider sat down then cleared his throat. Whitetail paused, then looked at the
hyooman.
    “Whitetail, Deerinea has been educating me on Schinicin tactics….”
Glider began.
    “Now you come to realise, the implications we’re up
against here.” Whitetail growled. “Those Schinicin will be back…it’s
just a matter of time.”
    “What can we do about it? Temple guard contingents are severely
depleted, our own weaponry is hideously inadequate…and we seem to be
prisoners here.”

    “I know – ” Whitetail spoke.
“Our Tech’s are trying to restore flight capacity to the shuttle, but
without the right equipment and supplies – it’s easier said than
done. Apparently, there was more damage to the shuttle than what we realised.”

    “So – ” Glider asked. “What do we do?”
    “I’ve spoken with Millar – and she has told me,
that under no circumstances, can or will she intervene on our behalf,
in this war. Millar will only protect her temple, as it is her home….
Nothing more.” Whitetail growled.
    “Now what? We can not hide here forever….” Glider
sighed.
    “I know that – and it is this problem, that I am experiencing
much grief over. If I leave, then they will not have my powers to draw on in
defence…but if I stay, then you all will likewise – not have my
talents to use in the war, against the Schinicin….”
    “Whitetail – you must do what you know is right.” Deerinea
consoled him. “Deep in your heart, you know the answer to this problem.”

    “If I leave – then there is a high chance…that
everyone in this temple complex will die, at the hands of the Schinicin, when
they return….”
    “That is not up to you to foresee. None of us can foresee
the future….” Glider told Whitetail. “Without your skills – and
abilities, the Meldaron resistance will be hampered in their attacks against
the Schinicin. Does the fate of the entire Meldaron race, not outweigh the cost
of a few guards and soldiers? Think logically my friend – for the fate
of Meldaron lies in the resistance movement….”
    “Now you see the problem.” Whitetail moaned. “I was born
here – raised here – and I can not just turn my back on it
all, and walk away.”
    “You alone, must make this decision – we can not make
it for you.” Deerinea told him.

    To their surprise, Silverfox entered
the chambers, her eyes red from crying.
    “Whitetail – ” Silverfox whispered her voice hoarse.

    “What is it my friend?” Whitetail asked her.
    “I have made a decision…. Please, do all that you
can – to bring Mack back to us.”
Whitetail stared incredulously at her.
    “I feel – that his life was taken from him, so suddenly.
Is it better not to meet your death in battle, on your feet…than it is,
to die in such an honourless way?”
    “Silver – ” Glider spoke.
    “No Glider…this was my choice. I feel strongly, that
Mack’s life was taken wrongly from him, and if I have the chance to counteract
that decision, then it is I who shall live with the repercussions of
my decisions.”
    “Silverfox – are you really sure that you want
to do this?” Whitetail asked. “It is a very dangerous…ritual.”

    Silverfox sniffled and nodded. “I do not care what it takes.
Mack was my friend – all my life, and I owe him this much….”

    Whitetail sighed, his ears drooping
sadly.
    “Silverfox, I will not tell you again. This ritual –
is very dangerous. I will need a part of your own life essence, to bring
your friend back. If I get a single part of the ritual wrong – then –
both – of you will have your spirits sundered…and cast in
to the netherworld. I only tell you this – so you know the very real dangers
in this ritual.” Whitetail spoke softly.
    “I acknowledge the risks…and accept them. I have faith
in you, and if I was in the same position, then I – would do the same
for any of you….”
Glider began crying softly, and Deerinea pulled him close to her, then rocked
him gently, resting his head against her shoulder, as she patted him consolingly.

    “Then come with me – ” Whitetail spoke. “We shall make
preparations for the ceremony….”

    Obediently, Silverfox bowed her head
and followed Whitetail from the chambers. Glider wept bitterly, and Deerinea
continued rocking him, whispering soothingly to the sobbing hyooman.

    “Why?” Glider wept. “Why are we forced in to this cruelty
and injustice?”
    “I have faith in Whitetail’s new-found powers…as
I do in your own, my young friend.” Deerinea consoled him.
    “Why was I given this power of the lightning? How can I be
responsible for such a precious gift? Why also, must Silverfox give a part of
her very spirit, to restore our beloved friend?” Glider mumbled.
    “As for the lightning powers – I do not doubt that
Millar knew exactly what she was doing. Millar would never have granted
you this power – if she did not think that you could learn to control
it…and use it for good. As for Silverfox, the young Vixen must sacrifice
a part of herself – to bring the Tashan back…as it is an appeasement
to the demons and worse, than infest the netherworld. They will demand a sacrifice
– in exchange for releasing the soul of your beloved friend. Whitetail,
using this ancient ritual, will in effect, fool the demons in to thinking that
they actually do now possess Silverfox’s spirit. Now deceived,
they will permit Mack’s spirit to return – but if they detect that
they have been misled…then both Silverfox and Mack, shall have their
spirits sundered and cast forever in to the deepest pits of the netherworld….
Even Whitetail, who will be the channel between the two worlds – will
face deadly risks. Should he mispronounce a ritual or do something wrong –
then all of them will perish…if we’re lucky….”
    “Lucky? How can you say that?” Glider wailed.
    “Trust me – ” Deerinea sighed. “If we are not lucky
then a rift will form between this world and the netherworld…and
the demon-spawn will be loosed on to this world. No-one will be safe from them,
and all will surely perish….”

    In his private chambers, the Grand
Admiral restored his calm and tranquillity, before he knelt on the holo-transmission
pad. After a few moments, the holographic image of the Schinicin Emperor appeared,
then it’s chilling voice struck icicles of fear deep in to the heart of
the Grand Admiral.
    “Explain yourself Sith Hirr Draconis – ” Growled the
Emperor.
    “Sire – the attack on the temple – I’ve
never seen anything like it in my life! Their Priest literally called forth
the living dead…and our troopers and armoured divisions could not stop
them! We were unprepared and our forces were hideously outnumbered….
Sire, it was literally a slaughter, as many of our forces were torn limb from
limb…by these undead warriors.”
    There was a soft reptilian like hiss of extreme exasperation. 
“You disappoint me Grand Admiral….” Spoke the Emperor.
    “Sire – how can we kill – the undead?” Moaned
the Grand Admiral.
    “I told you Grand Admiral – for I do not care what
it takes, but I will not tolerate failure. Use anything and anyone you
have to…get that book. Should you fail – then I personally, will
take great personal pleasure – in tearing your heart out…and banishing
you to the deepest pits of Ra’Charnath….”
A moan of reptilian terror escaped the Grand Admiral.
    “Yes Sith Hirr Draconis – you know the legends of the
Pits of Ra’Charnath. Even without a heart – shall you live. Here,
in these dim – evil depths, shall you discover new and even more hideous
tortures…. Every day, the torture will begin at dawn. You will suffer
unimaginable pain all day, screaming for mercy – then with the setting
of the sun, shall you die, only to be revived…. Come dawn, the next day,
shall you live again – and this time, the torture that shall infest you
– will be worse.”
    “Sire – have mercy….” Pleaded the Grand Admiral.

    “Thus, shall it continue, until I
am satisfied, that you have learned your lesson…and I destroy your heart…condemning
you to an eternity – of emptiness, darkness and loneliness. Do not fail
me…again…Grand Admiral.” Come the evil hiss of the Emperor.
“If I must, then I personally will come to Meldaron…. If I do
come, then I shall be most displeased, my servant. You had best fetch me
the book of Zra’Chak – and send it to me, or else, you will not
live to see the week out…. This is your very last warning Grand Admiral.
I have been lenient on you in the past, because of your exemplary and outstanding
campaign successes, in the past. However – even my incredible patience
– has its limits…and you are rapidly reaching that point in time.
Use what-ever you must to retrieve that tome Grand Admiral – or else,
you will not like the consequences of failing me….”
    “My lord – without reinforcements to enforce your will
on Meldaron….”
    “I have considered your requests – Grand Admiral…and
I have reached a decision. I am declining your request for additional forces.
Give me the Tome of Zra-Chak, and I assure you – you will have the full
might of the Schinicin Empire, at your command. Your forces will have to suffice
Sith Hirr Draconis, until such a time, as I have that book in my hands…
and then, shall you receive your reinforcements – and more besides. Until
then – you are on your own….”

    With that, the holo-link was severed,
leaving the Grand Admiral shaking beneath his reptilian skin. Indeed, if the
Emperor came to Meldaron – the Grand Admiral was certain – that
he would kill himself first – before the Emperor could carry out his very
real threat. Of all the Schinicin legends and myths, the fabled afterlife was
one all Schinicin held dear. If the Emperor did carry out his dire warning,
then the Grand Admiral – would never rest…. He would truly know
such agony, which would be ceaseless – without remorse or relent. It was
– truly – the worst afterlife any Schinicin could ever experience.
What was worse, was Sith Hirr Draconis knew full well – that the Emperor
was quite capable of handing down this sentence.
    “Commander – ” Sith Hirr Draconis grated.
    “Sire?”
    “Prepare a full invasion force to take the Temple….”

    “Sire? Are you – ” Come the Commanders startled response.

    “I do not care for excuses Commander – just carry out
my orders. I want as many Schinicin armoured divisions and infantry as you can
manage. I do not care if you have to strip most of the garrisons on Meldaron
to do it – but I want that temple taken….”
    “Aye sire – as you command. It will – take a
few days to organise such a strike….”
    “You have two days Commander. I suggest that you get too
it…immediately. This is a top priority Commander.”
    “Yes sire – at once.”

    Back in the main temple cathedral,
Whitetail was preparing the necessary ritual equipment, whilst Silverfox was
being bathed, brushed and purified, by some of the temple priests. Whitetail’s
ears lay tight against his neck, as he turned another page in the ancient book,
and read diligently, before he issued some orders to some priests, then lay
out some more of the necessary items, that he would need for the ritual –
that he prayed – would succeed.  At last, they were ready, and Whitetail
sighed softly, then knelt in prayer before the altar. His words were truthful,
meaningful and from his heart – as he pleaded with Millar to grant him
the ability, to carry out this delicate – and extremely lengthy ritual.
Silverfox was lead out, dressed in a long flowing white robe, her paws hidden
in the sleeves, her head hooded. Two temple priests accompanied her, their soft
prayers echoing eerily from the cavernous cathedral walls. They lead Silverfox
to the small bier, upon which she lay. Glider and Deerinea stood well back,
fearing that their mere presence would upset the delicate powers that Whitetail
was to bear in this ritual. Mack’s corpse, likewise dressed, cleansed
and purified, lay on a bier beside Silverfox.
    “Silverfox Relah Star – ” Whitetail chanted. “Are you
ready to commence the ritual of T’Neth?”
    “I am.” Come Silverfox’s faint reply.

    A young priest, garbed in his ceremonial
robes, slowly walked around the altar and the two biers, casting a circle of
powdered silver, holy water and salt. A dozen lesser priests formed a circle
around this magical warding, then they joined hands. Softly, they began chanting,
and as the startled Glider watched, the magical circle burst in to bright silver
flames.
    “What – ” Glider whispered.
Deerinea glared at him then clamped her paw tightly over his mouth.
    “Silence!” Deerinea breathed in his ear. “Do not make
a sound!”
Glider swallowed, then nodded his head. Deerinea glared at him again, then shuddered
and released him. They took a seat on the narrow pews, then watched the ritual
unfold….

    Whitetail came closer, his voice rising
and falling in harmony with the other priests, as he recited the powerful incantations.
Carefully, he ran his fingertips down Silverfox’s body – from the
tip of her head to her toes. He repeated this thrice, and then lay his palm
against Silverfox’s chest.  Deerinea, knowing what was about to happen,
slapped her paw over Glider’s mouth again, silencing any risks of him
crying out in alarm. Silverfox shrieked in mortal agony – then mercifully
– fainted. Whitetail’s voice began rising, as the silver flames
slowly turned in to a smoky-grey colour and edged towards black. Within several
heartbeats – the ebony flames drew all light and warmth in to their dark
embrace. Glider glanced at the torches on the temple walls, and he was shocked
to actually see them die down. A cold wind ruffled the torch flames, and chilled
those present, as Whitetail’s chant changed pitch and intensity, echoed
by the assisting priests.  Deerinea intensified her hold on Glider, knowing
that the ritual was really beginning now – and it was reaching a very
deadly stage. One false word – or gesture – and all of them would
die…as the demons from the Netherworld, were being called by Whitetail,
and Silverfox’s spirit was dangled before them teasingly. Deerinea watched
– prayed – that Whitetail had the strength – and the
ability – to complete this most deadly of rituals. There was a good reason
for why it had not been done in centuries….

    No one had successfully carried
it through to completion….

    Indeed, the Meldaron high priest Y’Nagioth
had tried – and his spirit had been torn from him and banished in to the
netherworld – all because of a simple and tragic mis-pronunciation of
a word….

    For the next seven hours, Whitetail
continued with the dangerous ritual, sweat matting his pelt and the very real
fear evident in his eyes. Still – he refused to give in, and finally,
late that night, there was a horrendous scream from beneath the ground…and
Whitetail shrieked a command, then shattered the spell powers. Deafening peals
of thunder ripped overhead and the entire temple rocked – as Whitetail
had performed the impossible – and restored Mack’s spirit to his
body. He collapsed to his knees, weakened beyond his physical endurance. Deerinea
ran to him, then knelt and held the shaking young Stag tightly, tears of joy
running down her muzzle.
    “I….” Whitetail gasped.
    “You did it!” Deerinea wept. “Millar be blessed – I
know not how – but you’ve done it!”
Silverfox and Mack lay unconscious – their own bodies badly weakened from
the experience. Gently, some of the priests brought forth stretchers and carried
the two unconscious Meldaron’s to a warm chamber, where they would rest
and recover from their ordeal.  Whitetail helped her mate to his feet,
then led him to his quarters. Here, she bathed him and then wrapped the shaking
Pearldinean in warm blankets.
    “I – never want to do that again.” Whitetail chattered.

    “I can not believe you actually managed to do it.” Deerinea
whispered, as she prepared a warm drink for Whitetail. “It’s exceptionally
dangerous.”
    “The power – the deceiving peace and calmness of the
other side….” Whitetail whispered. “It almost ensnared me.”
    “Never trust the Netherworld my beloved – as we both
know that this is all – that the Netherworld is. It is deceiving,
in which you are lured…and enslaved for eternity. Here, your immortal
spirit would be tortured for eternity…at the hands of the fallen.”

    “I did not think – I could do it….” Whitetail
shuddered. “It would have been so easy, just to give up – and sink in
to that peaceful darkness….”
    “You did do it – and we are all grateful for what you’ve
done for us….” Deerinea told him. “Silverfox and Mack will be grateful,
I have no doubts about that. Now, try to rest – and recover. You’ve
had a terrible time of it, and we’re safe for the moment….”

    “Those Schinicin – “
    “We’re safe. Millar has strengthened the mystic shielding
over her temple, but if they launch another ground attack against us –
then we’re all in trouble. Get some rest, and I will tend to you…and
try to get the shuttle repair crews working a little quicker. We need to get
out of here – and to our base in the Unknown Hills.”

    Whitetail took the steaming mug in
both paws, then sipped it carefully.
    “Go on – ” Whitetail spoke. “I will be alright….”

Deerinea looked sceptically at him, but did as he said and left the chamber.
Whitetail watched her go, then sighed softly.  Deerinea went outside, then
gazed up at the coruscating emerald shield that protected the temple buildings.
Quickly, she made her way to where the shuttle lay parked; the Tech’s
swarming over and under it.
    “Lt. Deerinea – ” Spoke their leading Tech.

    “How goes the repairs?” Deerinea asked.
    “Slowly – ” He sighed, then wiped his muzzle with an
old cloth. “Without proper knowledge of some of the Schinicin circuitry –
it’s fairly difficult. However, we estimate that to effect proper repairs
– we would need to dry-dock at a repair facility…and spend about
seventy-two hours, repairing the worst of the damage.”
    Deerinea sighed.  “That’s not what I wanted to
hear – okay, let’s ignore the worst of the damaged systems, and
just try to get this puppy flight-worthy again. What are the chances of getting
her partway flight capable?”

    Quickly, the Tech moaned. “Well –
there is a totally destroyed drive system on number three drive…but the
other two are operating at approximately sixty percent capability.”
    “Atmospheric capability?” Deerinea enquired, as she inspected
some of the repair work.
    “We wish. Outer hull has been compromised in many places,
and there is no chance of repairing that damage – without a fully
working repair facility. She will fly, but only at a very low altitude.”

    “Any luck in neutralising the Schinicin transponder transmitting
system?”
    “We were lucky in that regard – as we’ve managed
to decipher some of the Schinicin coding and such – and we’ve taken
down the transponder. So – “
    “So – Schinicin ground tracking stations won’t
detect us?”
After a minute, the Tech nodded.
    “Great work. Okay, so we’ve got flight capability,
but severely hampered – “
    “This crate will fly – but only just. Manoeuvring thrusters
are mostly gone, and main power conduits are extensively damaged. I just pray,
that you won’t need to out-run anything in a hurry….”
    “We’ve got about a hundred mile flight to make….
Will it hold out that long?”
He paused, then consulted with some of his other flight technicians.  “Only
just. Main power is falling concurrently, for reasons we’re not quite
sure. If you’re going to get moving – I’d make it real
quick.”
    “Do what you can – and I’ll let Whitetail know,
that it’s now or never.”
With a quick nod, the technician walked back to the shuttle, then they resumed
cursing and fighting with the alien vessel, trying to bypass it’s neuro-net
processors and on-board diagnostic systems….

    Deerinea walked to the shattered main
gates, then looked out over the rolling hills. Deerinea trembled, knowing that
the Schinicin forces were quite possibly mobilising, building their garrisons
and armouries, and gathering together their forces, for another attack on the
temple grounds. Deerinea sighed again, then returned in to the temple, and walked
through the quiet hallways to where she had left Whitetail. Here, she told him
everything that the Tech’s had told her…and he sighed wearily.

    “So – we’re running out of time?” Whitetail croaked.

    “I’m afraid so. Main power to the shuttle is falling
rapidly. If we do not get out of here within a few hours, then we’re not
going to get out.”
    Whitetail cursed fluently, then growled. “Alright –
four hours until we move out. Let everyone know….”
Deerinea nodded and left the chambers. Quietly, her hooves clicking on the stone
floor, she approached Glider’s chambers. Here, she paused then knocked
softly.
    “Come – ” Glider spoke.
Deerinea opened the door, then poked her nose in.
    “It’s alright Deerinea….” Glider smiled. “What’s
wrong?”
    “We’re moving out in four hours. Our shuttle transport
is experiencing difficulties and is losing it’s power. We’ve got
to get out of here – and escape to the Meldaron base.”

    Glider was silent, then at last, he
spoke.
    “What of Mack and Silverfox? Will they be able to move?”

    Deerinea sighed.   “Silverfox will recover quickly
– but Mack – will remain in his unconscious state for a few more
days. Once we get him to the Meldaron base, we will be able to accelerate his
healing, using the medical facilities there.”
    “What about the Schinicin’s? Won’t they detect
us?”
    “Our Tech’s have been working on the shuttle, and they’ve
managed to disable the Imperial transponder system. Providing we keep very close
to the ground, and do not draw attention to ourselves, we should escape
Imperial attentions.”
    “Four hours?”
    “That’s right….”
Deerinea gave the young hyooman a quick and affectionate hug, before she left
him to sit and think about things.

    Softly, Deerinea approached the other
chambers, where Mack and Silverfox lay unconscious. Deerinea opened the door,
to find a Meldaron temple priest sitting beside the two unconscious Anthro’s.

    “How are they holding up?” Deerinea asked.
    “The young male wolf Tashan – is gravely ill. As for
the female fox Tashan, she is likewise grievously ill, but is recovering swiftly.”

    “We’re moving on in under four hours – ” Deerinea
spoke. “I just pray, that the Schinicin do not strike this temple complex again….”

    “If they do, then we will fight to the last – to protect
Millar’s home.” Spoke the Priest.
    “I know you will – but I just wish that we could lend
you reinforcements or even some tanks and such of our own…to help defend
the temple.”
    “Millar will take care of us – as this temple has never
fallen to invading forces….”
    “I pray – that it never will….” Deerinea nodded.

    Silverfox twitched, then moaned in
pain.
    “Silverfox – ” Deerinea whispered, as she took the
young Meldaron’s paw.
    “Wha – ” Silverfox croaked weakly. “What – going
on?”
    “We’re moving out soon….”
Silverfox struggled to sit up, but Deerinea held her down.
    “No – try to rest. You’ve suffered worse than
any of us today….” Deerinea gently spoke.
    “Did…is….” Silverfox whispered.
Deerinea gave Silverfox a small sip of some water, then nodded delicately.

    “Whitetail completed the ritual – and Mack is alive.
However – he is in a critical condition, and we’ve got to get him
to medical help….”
    “The Schinicin – ”  Silverfox croaked.

    “Are no longer a threat – at least – for a while.
We’re going to be moving our remaining forces and ourselves to the Meldaron
secret base. I’ll organise some supplies and equipment for us…and
I want you to rest. If there is anything you want – or need, just ask
the priest here.”
    “Can I – ” Silverfox asked.

    Deerinea looked to the priest, who
shook his head softly.
    “I’m sorry Silverfox – ” Deerinea told her. “I
can not let you out of bed just now. I want you to try and get some more rest…okay?”

Silverfox thought about opposing Deerinea’s suggestions, but realised
– that Deerinea was only trying to take care of her. Silverfox moaned
and Deerinea gave her another drink of water.
    “Only take small sips – ” Deerinea spoke. “You’re
dehydrated and your system has had a terrible shock. Rest and try not to worry….
It will all be alright.”

    Suddenly, there was a piercing scream,
and the sound of a laser pistol being fired. Deerinea swore and fled the chambers,
nearly knocking over some Meldaron temple guards, who were likewise running
to investigate the disturbance. Again, more laser fire ripped through the temple,
and there were sickening thuds – the sounds of bodies striking the floor.
They ran to the main cathedral – just in time to see two Weasel Anthro’s
and five Rat Anthro’s run from the cathedral, carrying a small chest.

    “Oh sweet Millar!” Deerinea wailed, as she looked at the
broken open altar. “Come on! They’ve stolen the Tome of Zra-Chak! We’ve
got to stop them!”
One of the rats ducked behind a statue, then there was the briefest of muzzle
flashes – a young temple guard staggered backwards blood pouring from
his chest. Instantly, Deerinea and the other guards took cover, and un-holstered
their own pistols. Another laser bolt cut down one of the guards and the others
looked worried. These laser shots had come from two different angles…and
they began to suspect that there may be a sniper lurking up above in the dim
balconies above.
    “Get to cover!” Deerinea wept. “Go!”
Again, another guard was slain, blood spurting from his severed throat. He collapsed
and lay choking – as his blood began drowning him.
    “Whitetail – ” Deerinea shrieked in to her communicator.
“We’ve got a sniper in the cathedral – and some damn spies have
stolen the Tome of Zra-Chak! We need help!”
Only a crackling hiss came from the communicator – they were being actively
jammed.
    “Damn it!” Deerinea wailed. “Cover me! I’ve got to
alert the others!”
Obediently, five temple guards lay down a suppressing fire – giving Deerinea
the chance to run from the cathedral….

    “Whitetail!” Deerinea wailed, as she
ran through the temple. “Whitetail!”
    He staggered from his quarters, leaning heavily against the
doorframe.  “What – “
    “They – they have stolen – ” Deerinea panted,
her breath ripping from her. “The Tome! They – stole the Tome of
Zra-Chak!”
    “Who?” Whitetail exploded his rage instantly aflame.

    “Weasels – from the Maydane Swamps….” Deerinea
gasped. “Some – rodent’s as well! They’re escaping!”

Whitetail swore venomously, then grabbed Deerinea roughly by her collar and
ran back towards the cathedral. As they approached, a sickening explosion rocked
the temple, driving Whitetail and Deerinea to their knees…. Smoke, dust
and pieces of the ceiling pattered down, coating them both, as they struggled
to get to their feet. When they edged closer, they were horrified to see the
remains of the Meldaron temple guards – who had borne the brunt of the
grenades. Their corpses were mangled beyond recognition, and Deerinea burst
in to tears. Whitetail held her tightly against his chest and even he –
was sickened by the damage the grenades had done, both to the sacred temple
– and the Meldaron guards.

    “An – Schinicin high explosive
anti-tank grenade – ” Whitetail moaned. “Only that – could do such
damage….”
    “Why? Why did they steal the Tome of Zra-Chak?” Deerinea
wailed.
    “Why? Why is irrelevant…. Question is – how
are we going to recover it? They could be anywhere in this complex….”

A dozen Meldaron military soldiers boiled in to the cathedral, and many of them
were immediately stricken with the sight of the butchered temple guards.

    “You there!” Whitetail snapped, then coughed violently. “Rouse
anyone and everyone now! We’ve got to capture those thieves!”

    “Sir!” Barked the Sargent, as he ordered his forces to spread
out and round up as many temple guards as he could.
Deerinea fled in tears and Whitetail slowly approached the gore-spattered altar.
Here, he knelt then bowed his head in prayer.
    “Oh mother Millar – ” Whitetail wept. “Why has this
befallen your most sacred of places? Why are we pitched against such callous
and heretical fiends? This is a holy place – but they do not care. They
have defiled your home – in taking of lives – and I swear…that
I shall avenge this sacrilege….”

    A soft emerald glow began to form
behind him – and Whitetail slowly rose, then turned about. Growing in
its intensity, the emerald field began shimmering…and Millar herself
stepped through the glowing portal. Whitetail immediately dropped to his knees
and averted his eyes from his Goddess.
    “Arise – my child. “Come Millar’s telepathic
response.
    “Mistress – why? Why have you come to me? I am but
unworthy of your grace….”
    “You will not recover the Tome my child….”
Millar sighed. “Even now, they are fleeing through the catacombs…and
soon – they shall be gone.”
    “If they can escape – ” Whitetail moaned.
    “There is nothing you can do – ” Millar’s telepathic
voice spoke softly, but with the hint of authority touching it. “I had not
foreseen this – and it is my fault – as much as anyone’s.
I had the former High Priest place the Tome there. It was here –
that I thought it would be safe…. I was wrong.”

    “Mistress – ” Whitetail wept bitterly. “If that Tome
falls in to the hands of the Schinicin – “
    “I alone – take responsibility for allowing
it to be stolen – my child. I was too overconfident in my
own powers – that I dared not think – that someone
would have the tenacity – to break in to my own holy temple
– and steal the most treasured item in our Temple , right
from under my very nose.”

    “How – what – ” Whitetail
moaned.
    “There is little that you may do – to change
that which has happened…. I alone , take full responsibility
for losing the tome. It is my fault – and I alone –
must deal with this.”
    “Mistress – please….” Whitetail begged. “Let
me help you!”
    “Call the young Vixen… I have something
for her….”
    “Silverfox?” Whitetail whispered. “Her?”
Millar nodded softly.

    Whitetail ordered a young Meldaron
soldier to fetch Silverfox. He returned shortly, supporting the weakened Silverfox,
who stared in awe at the ten-foot tall goddess, who gazed back at her compassionately.

    “Silverfox – daughter of Charlene and Maxin
Rajin – step forwards.” Millar commanded.
Weakly, her knees trembling, Silverfox did as she was told – then knelt
before the Goddess.
    “You know of what your fate holds for you –
and in this regard – I present to you this weapon….”
Millar spoke
A shimmering spear appeared and hovered before Silverfox. Its make was of exceptional
quality, the broad blade of the spear tip gleaming in the guttering torchlight.
All along the spear was intricate runes, etched in to the ancient wood of the
spear.
    “This is the Spear of Meldaron ….” Millar’s
telepathic voice spoke to them. “This weapon – was used in the
banishment of the Dark Star Dragons…thousands of years ago.
I give it to you – to help you in your quest…. Take
care of this weapon my child – as it will serve you well –
and will aid you in your ultimate goal . As we are all aware –
the Tome of Zra-Chak has been stolen …and soon…it
will fall in to the hands of the Schinicin . However – they
can not restore the Dark Star Dragons from their banishment, as they
do not possess the key – to unlock that Tome. I hereby give
you…this quest. Find – and destroy –
the Schinicin Emperor …. I can not offer you any more help
than what I already am – and I pray – that you will
succeed….”
    “Millar – I am unworthy – ” Silverfox moaned.

    “Correction – you areworthy of being the
one to wield this weapon. You are pure of heart and spirit….
Only you, with the spear in your paws – can confront
the emperor – and see past the cloak of deception, that
he hides himself behind. I know – that the Emperor –
is notwhat he seems…. Only you – can face him
– and see what he really is . With the aid of the Spear
of Meldaron – may you do battle with the Emperor…and
destroy his evil once and for all. He will try to deceive you – and this
is where his downfall lies. He will not – if you are careful,
know of you wielding the Spear of Meldaron – until it is too
late. When you confront him – he will use all within his
powers – to deceive and blind you. Do not fall for the emperors
lies …as he is a master of deceptive ploys…and if
you succumb – he will destroy you.”
    “Millar – my mistress – this young Vixen….”
Whitetail pleaded.
    “Silverfox Relah Star – is my chosen one….
Would you dispute my decision?”
    “No – my beloved mistress….” Whitetail bowed
respectfully. “I do not wish to anger you….”
    “Whitetail – you are hereby sworn to protect
this young Vixen…. Are you worthy of being the champion of my
chosen warrior?”

    “Mistress – if you deem me worthy,
then I shall do all that I can – to ensure Silverfox fulfils her
destiny….” Whitetail promised.
    “Whitetail – I will never lie to you…or
to any of my children. This quest – may well result in you…or
others… losing your lives in this battle. It shall be hard
– of that – you already know. Arrayed against
you all – will be the entire Schinicin forces…. They
will do all within their power – to either capture you –
or destroy you. Should you fail, then the entire world of Meldaron…will
fall forever. Her people will be lost – prisoners under
the merciless heel of the evil Emperor . Within fifty years –
the Meldaron people will be no more , and our legends and history
will die with us….”
Silverfox whimpered softly, but Whitetail placed his arm comfortingly around
her slender shoulders.
    “Silverfox – I grieve to have given one so
young – such a burden. Please , believe me, when
I tell you – that I would never have done this – if
I felt…that you would not be strong enough to carry this burden….”

    “Almighty Millar – I believe in you…and I trust
in your judgements….” Silverfox wept. “It is all just – such a
lot for me to take in….”
    “I know it is…and I wish that I could ease
your burden – but I can not. I just pray – that
you succeed…and end this threat to your ownworld…and
it’s people…once and for all.”
    “What shall we do?” Silverfox asked. “Will your temple and
its priests survive the Schinicin invasion?”
    “If we survive – we survive….”
Come Millar’s response. “Worry yourself not needlessly with such thoughts.
If it is our time – then there is nothing that can change that.”

    “What should we – ” Silverfox asked.
    “What will be – will be. Now, go, as
already, the dark forces consolidate their hold on this world –
and they make preparations for your destruction .”

    With that, Millar vanished as suddenly
as she had come….
    “What do we do?” Silverfox wept, as she hesitantly took the
spear.
    “We do what is expected of us – we obey Millar’s orders….”
Whitetail replied consolingly. “Come on – the others will be ready by
now.”
    “So that’s just it? We just tuck our tails between
our legs and leave the temple guards to fight the Schinicin alone?” Silverfox
growled.
    “Silverfox – please. There is more to this temple,
than you realise. Remind me, when we have the time – to tell you of the
legend of this place….” Whitetail sighed quietly. “Right now –
we’ve got to get ourselves away from here…and to the Meldaron base.”

    Silverfox drew a shuddering breath, then sniffled. 
“You’re right – the fate of Meldaron lies in the resistance….”

Whitetail gave her a gentle hug of understanding, then led her to where Deerinea
was helping to load Mack on to a small stretcher.
    “How – ” Deerinea began.
Whitetail silenced her with a look, then nodded towards Mack.
    “He’s resting comfortably enough – but I’d
be much happier, if I could get him to a fully stocked medical facility….” 
Deerinea sniffled.
    “That is exactly what we’re going to do – ” Whitetail
spoke. “Come on – we’re moving out…right now.”

    Deerinea nodded then took one end
of the stretcher, with Glider at the other. Together, they carried the unconscious
Mack out in to the courtyard, where the shuttle pilots were warming the engines.

    “Lieutenant – ” Spoke the Sargent of the Meldaron soldiers.

Deerinea paused, then looked at him.
    “With your permission – we’d like to stay here….
We want to fight alongside those who are likewise staying – to help defend
the temple.” Asked the Sargent.
Deerinea looked to Whitetail, who shrugged quietly, then carried the unconscious
Tashan up in to the shuttle.
    “Sargent – “
    “Lieutenant – please…. Their forces are heavily
depleted…and they sacrificed their own lives – so that we would
have a chance. It is – the least that we can do….”
    Deerinea shuddered, then nodded quickly.  “Make it so
Sargent…and…may Millar bless you all.” Deerinea yelled, as the
shuttle engines increased their power.
    “May she guide and bless you all as well!” Replied the Sargent,
giving Deerinea a salute.

    Deerinea returned the salute, then
ran up the shuttle gangplank. Just as she strapped herself in, the shuttle pilot
raised the shuttle…and set course for the Meldaron base.
    “Here we go again – ” Silverfox groaned.
    “Did you say something?” Deerinea asked.
    “No – ” Silverfox sighed, then closed her eyes and
to her surprise…she slept.
    “Poor Silverfox – ” Whitetail whispered. “Why Millar
chose her….”
    Deerinea and Glider looked at Whitetail. Whitetail sighed,
then told them of what had happened. When he was finished, Deerinea and Glider
were stricken speechless. Whitetail unstrapped himself, then went in to the
cockpit and spoke at length with the pilot. They reprogrammed the shuttle communications
systems to the Meldaron military’s emergency frequency…and prayed
that the Meldaron’s were listening.
    “Captain – I want this code transmitted in ten second
bursts…” Whitetail spoke quickly. “Stay with this frequency. If we’re
lucky, the Meldaron’s will pick up the call….”
    “What if we’re unlucky?” Asked the Captain.

    “Then – this will be a real short trip – as the
defence systems within the base – will perceive us as a threat….
Then – it will activate its emergency override controls…and blow
this shuttle in to the next millennia…and us with it.”

    Leaving the Captain to worry, Whitetail
made his way back to the passenger area and sat down. He ran his paws across
his muzzle, then rubbed his eyes wearily.
    “What can we do?” Glider asked.
Deerinea looked at him, then glanced at Whitetail.
“There is only one thing to do – ” Whitetail spoke. “We pray….”

    After their escape from the Temple
grounds, the thieves made their way south-east, to their small encampment. Here,
they celebrated jubilantly on the capture of their prize….
    “Those Schinicin will pay a kings ransom for this book….”
One of the weasels laughed.
    “That they will,” Spoke a black furred rat. “I can not believe
that those temple guards could be so easy to take down!”
    “Yeah – ” Giggled the other Weasel. “Thanks to our
sniper Blackpaw’s….”
Blackpaw’s, the group sniper, smiled cruelly. He returned to polishing
his most prized possession, his sniping laser rifle. What was most disturbing,
is that he was a brush-tailed possum – a native of the peaceful Rainforest
Cape province.
    “So – when do we alert the Schinicin to our prize?”
Asked the first Weasel.

    A soft giggle snapped them out of
their revelry. From out of the shadows, stepped a hooded and cloaked figure,
followed by two dozen Schinicin infantry.
    “There’s no need – ” Came the hooded figures
giggle. “We already know….”
Immediately, the thieves snapped up their weapons defensively, then stared at
the Schinicin, who we by far – much – quicker than they were.

    “Come now – ” Spoke the hooded figure. “There is no
need for violence….”
It giggled insanely.
    “How – who – ” Demanded the Weasel.
With its paws, the hooded figure reached up – and cast back it’s
deep cowl. Those who were looking at it averted their eyes, sickening retching
sounds coming from them. This figure – was a hyena, his face covered with
oozing sores and wounds. His paws and wrists were heavily bandaged in stained
bandages.
    “I am Teric – ” Spoke the hyena. “I would suggest –
that you surrender the Tome of Zra-Chak….”
As they looked on, a pustulant wound burst and a sickening trail of pus and
blood tricked down the hyena’s muzzle. Without noticing it, he stared
at them, his black eyes glittering with the madness, which possessed his mind.

    “Hey!” Stammered the lead Weasel. “We had a deal….
We steal the tome…and the Schinicin give us a handsome bounty for it….”

    “Well now,” Grated Teric. “It would seem, the rules have
been changed? Would you not agree?”
    “We had a deal – ” Whimpered the thieves, as they stepped
backwards.

    They were backed up against a high
cliff, and they glanced backwards, looking down at a two thousand-foot drop,
to the valley floor below.
    “It would seem – that the Grand Admiral has had a change
of mind…. He does not negotiate with thieves and scum like yourselves….”
Teric giggled madly, then threw back his head and wailed with a bone-chilling
laugh of utter madness.
    “You – you’re insane…you know that? Moaned
the Weasel.
    Teric growled dangerously, then blinked and began gibbering
and giggling.  “Mad…mad…I’m not mad…” Teric
squealed hideously. “I’m not mad, I’m a total, certified fruit–cake!”

Sickened, the thieves edged back even further, away from this plague riddled
Hyena….
    “Give me the Tome of Zra-Chak… now.”

    “We – ” Pleaded the Weasel.
    “Had a deal – yes – I know. However, the rules
have been changed. Give the Tome to me…and I shall ensure you and your
– party – free passage from this place. Also, I shall ensure that
the Schinicin forces leave you and yours alone.”

    Sensing that they had no other options,
the Weasel looked to his companions. Their fear shone brightly in their eyes,
as they realised that they had been double-crossed by the Schinicin forces.

    “Give me the Tome of Zra-Chak… now.” Teric
gurgled, then giggled madly.
Reluctantly, the Weasel lay it tenderly on the ground, then backed away from
it. A Schinicin soldier stepped forwards, retrieved the tome, and returned to
display it to the plague riddled Hyena. Lovingly, he caressed the tome and smiled
wickedly.
    “You’ve made the right decision – ” Spoke Teric.
“Captain – please yourself and your men….”
    “Wait!” Pleaded the Weasel. “You said that – “

    Teric sighed, then turned back to look at the Weasel. 
“I – lied.”
There were the anguished cries of the thieves, then the Schinicin fired –
and silence fell heavily. There was a stench of burned fur and flesh, which
wafted over the slaughter.
    “There is – no honour amongst thieves….” Teric
giggled softly. “Come Captain, we must report to the Grand Admiral. I believe
– he will we more well disposed, now that we have the book in our possession….”

    “Yes sir.” Replied the reptilian Captain, as he slung his
weapon.

    They moved back in to the shadows,
then Teric paused.
    “Captain – ” He spoke.
    “Sir?” Asked the Schinicin Captain.
    “Bring me the pelt of that possum…. He will make an
excellent addition to my trophy chambers.”
    “Yes sir.”
Quickly, the Captain made his way back, then after a few moments, he returned.

    “Sir – the possum….”
    “What of him Captain? Where is my trophy?”
    “Sir – his corpse…it’s gone!”
    Teric growled dangerously.  “How…I thought that
you….”
    “Sir – we did shoot him…I suspect…he
has fallen to his death – from the top of the cliff.”
    Teric sighed.  “A shame – his pelt would have
made a wonderful addition to my trophy chambers.”

    They made their way back to their
shuttle, where Teric paused and retrieved his bio-suit. With some help from
the Schinicin soldiers under his command, he struggled in to it, then stepped
aboard the shuttle.
    “Inform the Grand Admiral – we have completed stage
one.” Teric spoke, his voice muffled by the filters in his suit.
    “Yes sir.” Replied the Captain. “By your command….”

    Little did they know, but the Schinicin
had shot the possum, but he had only been grazed. He had deliberately
fallen off the cliff, and using his exceptional dexterity, had managed to cling
to the cliff wall. After he had heard the shuttle depart, he laboriously crawled
back up the cliff and dragged himself over the precipice. He stared at the dead
thieves and mercenaries around him, then sighed. Taking his concealable sniping
rifle and other weapons and supplies, he set out through the forest around the
temple, wondering what he was going to do…and if…he was going
to survive….

           
Aboard the Schinicin Flagship

    “Grand Admiral – ” Come a voice.

    “Yes Lieutenant?” Replied Sith Hirr Draconis.
    “Sire – a shuttle from Meldaron, is requesting clearance
to land sir….”
    Slowly, the Grand Admiral leaned back in his throne. 
“A – shuttle?”
    “Yes sir – they claim – to have a special priority
delivery for you personally sir.”
    “Very well – grant them permission to land….
I want a full battalion of soldiers present in the docking bay…in case
this is a trap of some kind.”
    “Shuttle Draknar – you are cleared to land…proceed
along preset fly path.” Spoke the controller.
Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis breathed deeply of the churning chlorine gas
aboard his flagship, and then he watched the view-port as the Schinicin shuttle
approached. His interest was sparked, as he wondered what they were bringing
– that necessitated such importance.
    “Commander – notify me when the shuttle has landed.
I shall be in my quarters.”
    “Yes sire…” Spoke the Commander.
Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis raised his great bulk, then swept from the
bridge of his flagship, his mind churning with possible thoughts….

           
Aboard the Stolen Schinicin Shuttle

    “Sir – we’ve got sensor
contact….” Spoke the shuttle pilot.
Whitetail made his way forwards in to the shuttles cramped cockpit.
“Send the transponder code Captain….” Whitetail instructed him.

Quickly, the code was transmitted and after a few anxious moments, there was
a soft chirp of recognition and Whitetail breathed a sigh of relief.

    “We’ve done it Captain – ” Whitetail grinned.
“We’ve been recognised and accepted by the Meldaron base defence systems.
However – do not be alarmed, when we land – to see a armed contingent
as a greeting party when we arrive.”
    “Sir?” Asked the Captain, as he began the final approach.

    “It’s just standard procedure Captain. After all –
this is a Schinicin shuttle…and we are at war….”

    “Sir – I thought that….”
    ‘Trust me Captain. Do not make any sudden moves. If
the base defence computer gets suspicious…it will blast this shuttle
in to dust…and us with it. Just keep going…and hold your course
and speed steady.”

    Down on the ground, hidden anti-starship
guns tracked the shuttle, their lasers and missiles primed and ready to fire.
Meldaron ground forces in several hidden tracking stations kept a very close
eye on the shuttle – and they run passive scans of the life-signs aboard
the ship. Slowly, the shuttle slowed and approached the secreted docking bay,
located within the mountain itself. Every step of the way, powerful computer
systems and their Meldaron operators tracked the shuttle…until it touched
down.
    “Millar be blessed!” Whitetail moaned. “We’ve made
it!”
There was a soft whine, as the shuttle engines slowly cycled down in to silence.
Visible outside – through the shuttle cockpit windows, they could see
the Meldaron soldiers taking defensive positions and there were quite a number
of them – and heavy blaster cannons, quite capable to destroying the shuttle
– should they fire.
    “Wait here – ” Whitetail spoke.
Fearfully, the Captain nodded.  Whitetail walked back in to the hatchway
then activated the controls. With a soft hiss of escaping air, the hatchway
hissed open and folded itself down.
    “Identify yourself!” Come a voice.
    “I am field operative Whitetail, under the command of Lieutenant
Deerinea, who in turn, serves King Reyard Russet.”
    “Step out – and keep your hands above your head….”
Come the voice.
Whitetail done as he was told, then under orders, he knelt, then placed his
paws on the back of his head. Quickly, two soldiers approached and retrieved
Whitetail’s identity card and ran it through a small electronic reader.
It chirped and began displaying the information on Whitetail.
    “Sir – he’s clean.” Spoke the other officer.

    “Sorry sir – ” Said the first officer, as he handed
Whitetail’s ID back to him.
    “It’s alright private – we are at war
– and can not be too careful.”

    Deerinea came down the gangway, carrying
the stretcher, with Silverfox following, likewise helping to support the unconscious
Mack. Glider and the shuttle pilot was the last to come out, and they were all
likewise scanned. Naturally, the soldiers were highly suspicious of Silverfox,
the unconscious Mack and Glider.
    “Private – they’re clean. They work with us.”
Deerinea growled.
    “I’m sorry Lieutenant – it’s routine. We’re
going to have to confine them to quarters – until our Intelligence people
have cleared them.”
    “Private – ” Deerinea growled.
    “Deerinea – you and I both know the rules.”
Whitetail spoke. “Let up on him – he is only doing his job.”
Deerinea growled, but acquiesced to the orders.
“Silverfox – Glider – I’m sorry….” Deerinea sighed.
“Orders have to be obeyed.”
Silverfox nodded and Glider groaned, as they were lead at gunpoint to the secured
quarters, where they would stay. Deerinea watched them go, then ordered two
soldiers to carry Mack to the Infirmary. Here, he would recover – and
be kept under constant guard. Whitetail sighed wearily then led Deerinea to
the Command and Control centre of the base….

    “Lieutenant Deerinea – Whitetail
– ” Spoke the old Tashan wolf, that had been there at Foxville. “Millar
be blessed – for I never expected to see you both again.”
    “We do not have time for many pleasantries Commander, but
we are both grateful – that you too have survived the attack.” Whitetail
spoke. “What information can you give us on the war so far?”
    Sadly, Commander Drakmarian sighed. “I’m afraid that
it’s worse than it first appeared. Our military ground forces are down
to forty-two percent – our space fleet has fled, and they’re down
to twenty-nine percent…. It doesn’t bode well for us all I’m
afraid.”
    “What of his excellency – the king?” Deerinea asked.

    “His majesty was wounded in the destruction of Crown Castle,
but he survived and is alive….”
    “Thank Millar – ” Deerinea groaned. “Without him –
the Meldaron’s morale would surely collapse. Sir – where have our
space fleet fled too?”
    “They have fled to a neighbouring system – who are
our allies. Here, they are undergoing resupply and repairs, then we shall keep
them there…until we’re sure of what the Schinicin are doing. We
expect the Schinicin to spread their fleet throughout this system…and
if they do as expected, then when the time is right…we shall recall our
remaining battle-cruisers and fighters…and try to bring down a few of
the Schinicin Star-Crushers.”
    “What of ground force deployment on Meldaron?” Whitetail
asked.
    “Schinicin ground forces control vast areas of Meldaron,
and all of the major industrial areas and other areas of military importance.
They are now enforcing their rule – and our spies report that they are
deploying their garrisons in and around the major cities and areas of key importance.”
Replied Drakmarian.
    “Hmmm.” Deerinea growled. “It’s not good news for us…is
it Commander?”
    “I am afraid you’re right Lt. Deerinea. Schinicin forces
came at us so swiftly, we didn’t have any prior warning that they were
coming…and they caught us unawares….”

    “What actions have been taken –
to try and disrupt the Schinicin deployments?”
    “Our other field agents – are infiltrating key sectors…and
working to disrupt the Schinicin communications and command structure. A few
of our agents have managed to infiltrate the Schinicin industrial areas…and
they are working secretly – to sabotage the Schinicin power supply infrastructure.

    “Sounds dangerous – ” Whitetail pondered.
    “It is dangerous.” Replied Drakmarian. “However –
as you two know, you work as a team, and we’ve already lost over three
hundred of our field operatives, as many were found out through those of our
own forces – who defected to the side of the Schinicin.”
    “Damn it all!” Deerinea snarled. “Why are our own forces
betraying us?”
Whitetail placed a comforting paw on his mate’s shoulder. Even Commander
Drakmarian was surprised by her sudden outburst.
    “I – ” Deerinea began, then sighed and shuddered. “Commander
– forgive me.”
    “I forgive you Lieutenant – as you’ve suffered
a lot lately…. Would you like a few days leave? To recover and rest?”
Commander Drakmarian asked.
    “No sir…I must respectfully decline. Meldaron’s
people need us all to do our utmost.”
    “Lt. Deerinea – ” Commander Drakmarian spoke. “If you
need some time from your duties…just ask me.”
    “Thank you – Sir.” Deerinea spoke.
    “Now – tell me all about what has happened, since we
last spoke at Foxville – and above all – how you’ve managed
to steal an Imperial shuttle?”
    Whitetail sighed, then explaining all that had happened,
between then – and now. When he had finished his debriefing, Deerinea
told the Commander of all that she herself – and those of her companions,
had done…. It was going to be a long… long…night
for these three….

           
Aboard the Schinicin Flagship

    There was a soft beep from the communications
board within the Grand Admiral’s chambers. He lay on his massive bed,
his eyes closed – the lights turned off. Drawing deeply of the chlorine
rich gasses that swirled and eddied throughout this chamber, he idly reached
out and touched the sensor.
    “Yes Commander?”
    “Sire – the shuttle has landed…and the passenger
– a….”
    “Commander?”
    “Sire – he is a Meldaron…wearing a bio-suit
and clutching some sort of…book?”
    Immediately, the Grand Admiral snapped in to battle readiness.
“A…book?”
    “Yes sire….” Stammered the Commander.
    “Commander – detach a security detail to this Meldaron.
I want him immediately brought to my chambers….”
    “Sire? – I thought it was your rest – “

    “The hells with my rest period!” Snarled the Grand Admiral.
“Bring him here…NOW!”

    After a few moments, the door sensor
pinged.
    “Come – ” Growled the Grand Admiral.
With a hiss, the door opened and in walked Teric. He paused, as the two Schinicin
soldiers stood attentively just inside the door.
    “Guards – leave us.” Commanded the Grand Admiral.

Obediently, they stepped outside and the door hissed closed again. For several
moments, Teric stood in the dark chamber, then there was the red gleam from
Sith Hirr Draconis’ eyes, as he opened them a crack to glare at the upstart
Hyena.
    “Speak – ” Rumbled the great dragon.
    “I would speak – ” Teric giggled, then burst in to
hysterical laughter. “If I knew to whom, I was speaking.”
Uttering a low growl, the Grand Admiral called the lighting, which swivelled
in on Teric, blinding him with its bright glare.
    “I have given you an order – ” Hissed the Grand Admiral.

    “Ooh.” Teric muttered, then giggled again. “Too scared to
show yourself?”
    “Try not my patience – you insolent whelp.” Growled
the Grand Admiral. “I am not known for my tolerance for insolence.”
    “Patience – my disgusting lizard…patience.”
Teric snickered. “What I have in my possession, I believe, will make
you change your mind.”

    Seething, the Grand Admiral hissed
venomously.
    “Teric – you would be advised – to do
as I have commanded….”
    “Oh? So the big scaly one knows my name!” Teric giggled insanely.

    “I know of who you are – ” Whispered the Grand Admiral.
“Also, I know of what you are.”
    “Big deal – ” Teric chuckled. “As if I really care
for what some hulking lizard thinks.”
His patience fraying, the Grand Admiral snapped a command and the chamber lights
blazed in to incandescence. Teric giggled and walked casually across the deck,
then reclined lazily in a chair. Incredulously, the Grand Admiral watched him,
wisps of flame and smoke trickling from his nostrils….
    “Hey – ” Teric smiled. “Nice place you’ve got
here…decorate it yourself?”
    “Do not play games with me – you festering sore….”

    “Oh – name calling now?” Teric taunted him. “Surely
– a creature of your authority would have a much thicker skin –
or perchance – it is just your head…that is thick?”
    “What – do – you – want?” Grated the Grand
Admiral, through gritted teeth.
    “What do I want?” Teric asked, then giggled madly. “What
I want – you couldn’t give me in a thousand years…. Besides
– it is what you want – that is important. I have something
– that I believe – you wanted?”
    “Impossible – ” Growled the Grand Admiral. “If our
forces could not obtain it, how could the likes of – “
Teric smiled, then showed the Grand Admiral the Tome of Zra-Chak. He was delighted
to see the great dragon actually fall silent.
    “You – the Tome of – ” Stammered the Grand Admiral.

    “That’s right – sir scaly one. I have the one
thing…that you desire.”
    “How did you – ” Asked Sith Hirr Draconis.
    “How? How is irrelevant. What is relevant – is what
deal – are you willing to make for this book?”
    “I do not – ” Began the Grand Admiral.
    “Correction – ” Spoke Teric, with a manic giggle. “You
do make deals now….”

    Slowly, Teric giggled and showed the
Grand Admiral the Tome – of which, was only the cover.
    “You – ” Exploded the Grand Admiral.
    “I may be a thief – a liar – and irreversibly
insane – but I am not foolish. You want the book…and I think –
we can come to a – shall we say…. A mutual agreement?”
Seething, the Grand Admiral snarled in rage, his roar reverberating deafeningly
throughout the chamber. Teric smiled and added his own choking screams.

    “There – that feels better…doesn’t it?”
Giggled the insane Hyena.
    “You DARE to make a mockery out of me?” Snarled Sith
Hirr Draconis. “I could crush you – like an eggshell!”
    “You could – ” Admitted Teric. “But you will not. Now,
let’s negotiate. I possess the Tome of Zra-Chak – which you want….”

    “What do you – want from me?” Hissed the Grand Admiral.

    “Ah – straight to the point huh?” Teric giggled. “I
like a man – which you’re not – who doesn’t want
to haggle for hours….”
    “Let us not mince words….” Seethed the Grand Admiral.
“What do you want, in exchange for this book?”
    “Well – ” Teric pondered, idly tapping his gloved paws
against his muzzle-mask.
His patience nearly at its end, the Grand Admiral rose and began pacing the
chamber.
    “Well – ” Teric resumed. “How about being the sole
ruler – of this region?”
    Sith Hirr Draconis snorted in displeasure. “You’re
mad – you know that?”

    Teric blinked, then to Sith Hirr Draconis’
surprise, Teric threw back his head and shrieked in insane laughter. He even
began gibbering and drooling, as he done an impromptu dance about the chambers,
reinforcing Sith Hirr Draconis’ displeasure. What the Grand Admiral did
notice, are the sores and wounds that littered the insane Hyena’s
entire body. How – this Hyena could bear such pestilence – and still
survive, amazed the Grand Admiral….
    “Aye – ” Teric gibbered. “I’m mad…so what?
Isn’t everybody?”
    “So – you want to be installed – as the regional
governor of this sector?” Asked the Grand Admiral.
    “Yes – for starters….” Teric snickered. “That
should suffice for the moment….”
    “What else?” Sighed the Grand Admiral.
    “Well – I want the Meldaron forces to obey me…come
to think of it – disband or destroy the Meldaron forces totally….
I want my own personal battle fleet, based on this very impressive Starship….”

    “Star-Crusher.” Growled Sith Hirr Draconis.

    “Starship – star-crusher…who cares?” Confided
Teric.
    “Continue – “
    “Once these demands are met – then I shall consider
my other requests…. If we agree to my demands, then – only
then – shall I deliver to you, through a third party – the Tome
of Zra-Chak.”
    “You’re asking a lot – ” Grated out the Grand
Admiral.
    “Ah – but you’re receiving a lot.” Snickered
Teric. “I know – what is in that Tome, and what power it holds. You’re
seeking to restore the Dark Star Dragons – aren’t you?”

    “How did you – ” Exploded the
Grand Admiral.
    “A lucky guess perchance?” Giggled Teric. “Think about it
Captain – “
    “Grand Admiral – if you please…you festering
– rancid – hideous creature.”
    “Oh…well – excuse me – ” Teric
chuckled. “His excellency has spoken!”
    “Do not play games with me….” Seethed the Grand Admiral
in rage.
    “I shall do as I like – ” Teric shot back menacingly.
“I alone, know where the Tome is hidden…and oh – whilst I think
of it – you’re interrogation techniques will not work on me, as
I am certifiably off my nut. I am out of my gourd, bonkers, crazy, a couple
of biscuits short of the pack, a few cans short of a six-pack….”

    “I get the meaning….” Sighed the Grand Admiral. “Very
well – I will be in touch with you….”
    “Undoubtably you will – ” Smiled Teric. “I do not doubt
it at all…Captain.”
    “Get out!” Screamed the Grand Admiral.

    “Temper, temper…the naughty lizard is losing his temper
– ” Teric snickered, then left the chambers.

    After the plague riddled Teric had
left, the Grand Admiral vented the chlorine from his chambers. Even though he
knew that Teric was wearing a self-contained bio-suit…the Grand Admiral
was positive – the stench of that decaying Hyena remained. Agitated, the
Grand Admiral summoned the Commander of the Dragon Wing. After a few moments,
the Commander arrived. He was a black scaled dragon, his blood red eyes furtive
and sinister.
    “My liege – ” Spoke the Commander. “I live to serve
the Emperor.”
    “Commander Zur-tarn – I have a mission for you…personally.”

    “Speak of it sire.”
    “That – creature – that just left here…holds
some vital information that we desire above all else. I want you to follow him
– and find out where he is living. Once you’ve done this, report
immediately to me…and I shall give you additional instructions.”

    “Yes sire – by your command.”
    “You are dismissed Commander….”
    “You will learn – ” Hissed the Grand Admiral. “Never
try to betray a Grand Admiral….”

           
Inside the Secured Chambers – Meldaron Base

    “Oh – this is just wonderful
!” Glider groaned, as he stared at the force field that imprisoned them. “We’ve
fought so long – and for so much – just to be turned in to prisoners?”

    Silverfox sighed softly. “Glider – we’re not
prisoners.”
    “How can you say that?” Glider growled, then kicked a chair
at the force field.
It fritzed and the armed guard outside glared at him.
    “Knock it off….” Snarled the Tashan soldier.

    “Why don’t you make me?” Glider hissed.
    “Do not tempt me – boy.” Growled the Guard.

Silverfox grabbed Glider, then forced him to sit down. Glider resisted at first,
then sighed and complied.
    “Why are they treating us like this?” Glider asked.

    “Glider – they’re keeping us confined –
whilst their Intelligence people run checks against our names – and identities.
It is standard military operation. They do not know who we are…. We could
be Schinicin spies for all they know.”
    “Do we look like reptiles?” Glider hissed.

    “You know what I mean….” Silverfox sighed in exasperation.
“Soon, once our names have been cleared and our identities confirmed, then we’ll
be free.”

    “I still feel like a prisoner –
” Glider moped.
    “Believe me Glider – it’s for our own protection…and
that of the Meldaron base.”
Glider mumbled something, then lay down on the hard bunk and closed his eyes.
Silverfox looked at him, then sighed again and sat down, and hugged her knees
close to her chest.  Thirteen hours later, Deerinea came to them and ordered
the force field to be dissipated.
    “Come on – you’re free.” Deerinea told them.

    “About time – ” Glider yawned. “I was about to die
of old age.”
Deerinea looked at Silverfox, who shrugged as if to say ‘Don’t ask’.
Deerinea smiled gently then led them to more suitable quarters.
    “You’ll be sharing these quarters together…until
we can find some more suited accommodation. Things – as you can imagine
– are quite disorganised lately….”
    “This is fine – ” Silverfox spoke. “A little on the
light side – but fine. Thank you.”
    “If you need anything – then just let the guard know…and
he’ll see to it. I’ve got to get to work, and get you both outfitted
and see to your training….” Deerinea answered.
    “Deerinea – “
    “Oh – Mack is recovering…and undergoing extensive
testing, to ensure there is no – lingering – damage to him. I’ll
try and get some time for you to see him, when I can.”
    “Deerinea – I never said this before – ” Silverfox
stammered.
Deerinea paused in the doorway, then looked back at them.
    “I – just wanted to say – thank you. For everything….”

    Deerinea sighed, then turned back
to Silverfox and Glider. Quickly, she gave them both a warm affectionate hug,
then left the chambers.
    “Come on – let’s see about getting you both outfitted
and enlisted….” Deerinea smiled.
Silverfox took Glider’s hand and they followed Deerinea out of the chambers.
Glider paused, then looked at the Tashan guard. He stared back, until Glider
reached out a hand.
    “No – hard feelings – okay?” Glider spoke.

Slowly, the surprised soldier blinked – then took Glider’s outstretched
hand and shook it gently.
    “None taken – and I’m sorry for biting your head
off like that…. We’re all under a lot of duress lately….”

“Aye – that we have been….” Glider admitted, then cuddled Silverfox
warmly and followed Deerinea down the passageway. “That we have been….”

       
Meldaron Military Base

    Deerinea led the two friends through
a myriad of areas, thoroughly confusing both the Meldaron and the Hyooman. Deerinea
knew where she was going, but Glider and Silverfox were left to stagger along
in her wake – overwhelmed by the seemingly utter chaos that reigned within
this base. People of all races were busy about their assigned tasks, barely
giving the newcomers a second glance. For this, Glider was grateful –,
as was Silverfox. They were too overcome with their own personal problems –
to try and absorb all this.
    “Well – ” Deerinea spoke. “We’re here. Go through
this door, and the medic’s will give you a check-up…and then once
you’ve passed that, we’ll get you settled in.”
    “I feel – ” Silverfox began.
    “Out of place?” Deerinea inquired, one eyebrow raising slowly.
“It’s alright Silverfox, I’ll always be close to you all –
and try to help when I can. You could say – that I’ll be your senior
officer – “
    “You – ” Glider asked.
    “Once you’ve undergone your training and such –
yes. I will put in a special request, to take you three in – and train
you myself.”
    “Why?” Silverfox asked. “We’re no-one special….”

    Deerinea smiled. “Yes you all are – you’re my
friends….”

    “Lt. Deerinea – report to General
Taldarian – Mission ops sector.” Come a voice communication.
    Deerinea groaned then hugged them both again. “No rest for
the wicked huh?”
Silverfox and Glider watched Deerinea move off, about her assigned orders. Together,
they made their way in to the chambers beyond, where they underwent rigorous
physical and mental testing. After four hours – they were passed fit for
duty, and Whitetail met them outside the medical centre.
    “What’s the verdict doc?” Asked Whitetail with a grin.
“Are they certifiably crazy yet?”
    Their Doctor, a young male brush tailed possum laughed softly.
“Not yet – but if they hang out with you long enough…they might
be!”
Whitetail threw back his head and laughed uproariously.
    “What’s – so funny?” Glider asked.
    “It’s just that – Dr. Greytail here – has
been my good friend for many years. It’s just our little joke between
us. He thinks I’m crazy – and I’m starting to believe him.”

    Doctor Greytail smiled weakly, then chuckled.  “Whitetail
– you take good care of these new recruits – or else.” He sternly
told the Pearldinean.
    “You know me doc – always do.” Whitetail smiled.

    “Of course I know you – and that is what worries me.”
Taunted the Doctor good-naturedly.
    “Come on – let’s get you two enlisted….”
Whitetail spoke. “It’s going to be a very long day….”

    Once again, they were led through
the Meldaron base, becoming more and more confused with the various twists and
turns within it. At last, they were brought to the Office of Major Blacktalon
– the Recruitment officer. They paused outside, and then there was a stern
voice.
    “Come – “
Whitetail opened the door, then they entered. Major Blacktalon looked up, then
gave them a quick glance over – and consulted the data pad on his desk.

    “Silverfox Relah Star – ” Spoke the grizzled looking
Coyote.
    “Sir?” Silverfox answered.
    “I see that your father – and Grandfather served
in the great Meldaron war….”
    “Yes sir.” Silverfox replied.
    “Have you undergone any military training in the past?” Asked
the Coyote.
    “No sir – not formal training. I did learn from my
father, the use – carrying and cleaning of a variety of weapons…hand
to hand combat tactics – and starship piloting….”
    “Excellent – your skills will be honed to a fine edge
– and we’ll find you a suitable position. At ease – corporal.“

    “Thank you sir.” Silverfox spoke.

    Pausing, the Coyote looked at his
data pad and then glanced at Glider. He idly scratched his muzzle, then spoke.

    “Glider – is this your real name son?” Asked the Coyote.

    “Sir – it’s the name I’ve always gone by
– since I was old enough to know my name….”
    “I see – family son?”
    “No – sir.” Glider spoke. “I did not ever know my family.
I was raised by foster parents – here on Meldaron.”
    “Glider – that’s an interesting name son….
May I ask how you got it?”
    “Sir – I have been blessed with the ability –
of flight. I do not know how, but ever since I was a child – I’ve
had this natural ability….”
Blinking, Major Blacktalon stared at Glider.
    “Sir – permission to speak.” Silverfox asked.

    “Permission granted Corporal.”
    “Thank you sir – I wish to verify Glider’s story
– sir. I have been friends’ with him, since we were both very young. I
have never known him to be dishonest, or mask the truth in any regard….”

    “I see – Whitetail – do you have anything to
add to this discussion?” Asked the Captain.

    “Sir – ” Whitetail spoke up.
“I’ve only known them both for a while – but I’ve found them
to be honest, open and halfway respectable as soldiers. Glider sadly, is lacking
in proper training with weapon usage, but Silverfox – is quite capable.
I feel – that she would benefit most, from further training in her chosen
class of weapon, perchance – she may qualify for the sniping class.”

    “Very well – I shall make recommendations to my superiors,
and we shall begin their training. Glider – I hereby grant you the rank
– of corporal. Congratulations recruits – and welcome to the resistance….”

    “Thank you sir.” Spoke Silverfox and Glider.
    “Dismissed.” Replied the Captain.

    Silverfox and Glider saluted sharply,
and then the Captain returned it. Quickly, they left the chambers and waited
outside. Whitetail joined them and smiled weakly.
    “Well – one minute you’re civilians – the
next – corporals. That’s the military for you.” Whitetail smiled.
“Come on – let’s get you both some uniforms and identification passes.”

    “Is it always like this?” Glider asked Silverfox.

Before Silverfox could answer, Whitetail spoke up.
    “No – actually, it’s worse.” He grinned.

Silverfox couldn’t hold back her laughter – and she wailed in almost
hysteria, so grateful to be finally able to give vent to these emotions, which
the war had threatened to stamp out forever. Whitetail caught on to Silverfox’s
veiled joke and even he began laughing. All around them, soldiers stopped and
blinked, exchanging glances with each other. Indeed, Silverfox’s laughter
had a remarkable vitalising effect on not only the companions – but also
those who heard it….

    Finally, after what felt like months,
they returned to their chambers and slumped down on to their beds.
    “Oh Millar – I am so tired!” Glider moaned.

Silverfox smiled weakly.
    “What are you smiling at?” Glider asked.
    “If you’re sore and tired now – you just
wait for the real training and such to commence….”
Glider moaned weakly and rolled over – as Silverfox grinned and removed
her heavy combat boots and uniform. As she changed in to something more comfortable,
Silverfox caught Glider’s furtive glance – then his bright blushing.

    “What?” Silverfox asked. “Never seen a Vixen before?”

Glider blushed worse and turned back away from her.
    “What’s got in to you?” Silverfox asked. “Are we all
embarrassed?”
    “It – it’s just that…well….” Glider
stammered.

    Silverfox laughed delicately then
slipped in to her loose robes. Then she came over and sat before him, as he
took up her brush and gently began brushing her hair and neck fur.
    “What’s wrong with you Glider? Has Millar stolen your tongue?”
Silverfox whispered, as she moaned softly, enjoying the brushing.
    “It’s just that – well – we’re not
kids any-more.” Glider whispered, then shuddered.
    “I – am not quite sure that I follow you.” Silverfox
spoke. “What’s eating you? Come on, we’re friends – you can share
it with me….”
    Glider stopped brushing, then sighed wearily. “Silverfox
– we’ve known each other all our lives…so let’s be
open and honest with each other…okay?”
Silverfox slowly turned, to look in to Glider’s concerned face. He sighed
again – then put down the brush…just as he was about to speak,
Deerinea burst in to their chambers.
    “Suit up kids – we’re moving out.” Deerinea snapped
sharply. “Come on – let’s move !”

    Immediately, Glider was on his feet
and Silverfox leapt to hers, then began struggling in to her uniform and boots.
Glider lent her some much-needed assistance, and then they ran from the chambers.

    “Come on – move it!” Deerinea growled – unlike
her normal cheerful self.
They ran through the passages, and down to Major Blacktalon’s offices.

    “Not bad Deerinea – but do you think you could motivate
your recruits a little faster next time?” Major Blacktalon asked.
    “Sorry sir – ” Deerinea spoke.
    “Alright recruits – I’m sorry for dropping you
both in to the deep end, but this mission just came in. It’s a search
and rescue mission. One of our fighters on combat patrol was shot down forty
miles northeast of here. Our pilot managed to eject to safety, but he’s
been injured in combat. I’d send the S&R crews, but they’re
assigned to other duties right now. I am afraid – that you’re it.
Can you handle it?”
    “Sir – with all due respect – I do not feel that
my recruits are – ” Deerinea began.
    “Lt. Deerinea, your objection is duly noted. I wish I had
the forces to organise and deploy, but we’re running on a skeletal staff
at the moment. A shuttle is standing by in the hanger, awaiting your arrival.
I won’t lie to you – or your recruits. This mission is dangerous.
Get in, find the pilot – and get the hell out again – before the
Schinicin detect your ship – and you. Dismissed.”

    Silverfox, Glider and Deerinea saluted
the Captain, who returned the salute. Immediately, they boiled from the office
and Deerinea led them to the star-fighter hanger bay. Here, Silverfox and Glider
had but a moment to glance at the star-fighters and other combat ships, before
they were herded in to the small shuttle.”
    “Pilot – all aboard. Clear!” Deerinea snapped.

Instantly, there was the loud rising hum of the shuttles engines firing up,
then Silverfox and Glider strapped themselves in. Deerinea did likewise, as
the shuttle manoeuvred in to the launching tubes.
    “Shuttle Rescue-1 prepared for take-off.” Spoke the pilot.

    “Affirmative shuttle…cleared for take-off.” Come the
controller’s response. “Good luck. Tower clear.”
There was an explosive acceleration, as the shuttle was catapulted down the
launching tubes and in to the early night sky. Flying low and without its lights
shining, the shuttle hugged the treetops, avoiding any chance of Schinicin ships
detecting it.

    “Alright – let’s gear-up
people!” Deerinea spoke. “Come on – move it!”
Silverfox and Glider undone their safety harnesses, then prepared their weapons
and packs.
    “Ten minutes to dust-off site.” Come the pilot’s voice.

    “Make it five private – ” Deerinea shot back.

    “Yes sir – increasing speed….” Replied the pilot.
“Revised ETA – drop-site, six minutes.”
    “I said – “
    “Lieutenant – forgive me, but we’re already touching
the red-line. If we go any faster, our radar signature will be detected…and
the Schinicin will know we’re out and about.”
    Deerinea growled deep in her throat, but acknowledged the
risks.   “Just get us there as quickly as you can private –
that pilots life depends on it.”
    “Yes sir – will do.” Replied the shuttle pilot. “I’ll
do my best….”
    “I just pray – that it’s good enough….”
Deerinea sighed. “Alright people – it’s show-time.”
They re-checked their weapons and rescue equipment, then waited patiently for
the shuttle pilot to finish his last manoeuvring….

    “Transponder signal coming through
strongly – ” Spoke the pilot. “About three hundred meters – north/northeast
from dust-off site. “ETA landing site – one minute.”
Gently, the shuttle touched down and immediately, they ran from the shuttle.
Spreading out, they used their tracking transponder receivers to locate the
downed pilot.
    “We’ve found him – he’s still alive.” Deerinea
reported back.
    “Make it fast – ground tracking surveillance has detected
Schinicin patrols closing on your position….” Come the response.

Glider cut down the critically wounded pilot and they carried him back to the
shuttle. Here, Deerinea set about hooking him up to the shipboard medical systems,
as Glider sealed the hatchway.
    “Let’s move – ” Deerinea snapped sharply. “Schinicin
patrols are closing in….”
    “Yes sir – ” Replied the pilot, as he began cycling
the engines up to speed.
From out of the dark forest, came the lumbering Schinicin tanks. Immediately,
their tri-fire laser turrets swivelled in to lock on to the shuttle.

    “Lieutenant – ” Squealed the pilot.
    “I know – I can see them” Deerinea growled. “Let’s
move out…now!”
Quickly, the pilot launched the shuttle in to the night sky, and then it rocked
heavily as the Schinicin tanks opened fire. Applying full power to the drives,
the pilot blasted off, and was soon well out of range.
    “That was too close – ” Deerinea spoke. “All
right – great work people. Let’s get him and us home in one
piece….”

    Glider moaned and slumped down in
to the seat. Deerinea glanced over at him and blinked.
    “What’s wrong?” Deerinea asked.
    “Are all our missions going to be this hard?” Glider
asked.
    “Hard?” Deerinea spoke softly. “ Hard? This was a
walk in the park – you wait until we’ve really got a mission
to handle….”
Silverfox smiled weakly and patted her friend gently. Glider looked at her,
then back at Deerinea.
    “Easy? You call having a patrol of Schinicin tanks easy –
which I might add – shooting at you – easy?” He asked incredulously.

Deerinea actually began to chuckle softly and soon, she was laughing loudly.

    “Glider – you do not know the half of it….”
Deerinea chuckled. “Welcome to the resistance – and I suspect –
a new life for you both….”
Silverfox sat in contemplative silence for a time, before she spoke up.

    “I’ve been thinking – ” Silverfox began.

    “What with?” Glider teased her affectionately.
Silverfox managed a weak smile and punched Glider playfully.
    “You’re willing to take us on – as trainee’s
under your command?” Silverfox asked Deerinea.

    “Well – ” Deerinea countered.
“That is my idea – “
    “May we ask why?” Silverfox asked.
    “You’ve both got good skills – Glider has the
power of flight, or so you and he claim, as well as possessing the ability to
use the lightning as a powerful weapon.  Besides Silverfox, you are a pretty
good shot – and I believe – you would make a halfway decent sniper….”

    “What of Mack?” Glider asked.
    “Mack – now that young wolf is an enigma. I am not
sure just where he will fit in – what is he good at?”
    “Whining – ” Silverfox smiled.
Glider blinked at Silverfox, then chuckled softly.
    “Silverfox – ” Deerinea rebuked her softly.

    “No – honestly – ever since we were pups…Mack
has had a phenomenal ability to remember ways through things…. Like in
the sewers beneath Foxville – he knew…almost instinctively –
where to go….”
Deerinea idly lay her paw against her muzzle, and then her eyes grew thoughtful.

    “So – ” Glider asked.
    “So – ” Deerinea replied. “I do believe that
he would make a fairly respectable addition to our group. Glider is –
if you’re willing – going to be trained in security bypass and electronic
systems…Silverfox will be our company sniper, and Mack, can be our spy
or something similar. With his skills, we should be able to sneak in heavily
defended areas – using the sewer tunnels and such beneath the areas of
infiltration.”
    “Sounds dangerous – ” Silverfox whispered.

    “I’m afraid that the job carries
extreme risks – but that’s a part of it. Sound equitable to you
both?”
    “Fine with me – but I have a question….” Glider
asked.
    “What is it?” Deerinea glanced at him.
    “Why am I – to be trained in electronic systems and
security…and another question, is why does Whitetail not hold
a rank within the military?”
    “Hey – ” Deerinea growled. “That’s two questions….
Okay, we need a electronic security systems expert…and I gather…that
you are interested in such things?”
Glider smiled and Silverfox glanced away.
    “Silver – ” Glider spoke.
    “Hey – do not drag me in to this! I just said how you
loved to tinker with machines and things….” Silverfox stammered, trying
to withhold her laughter.
    “Okay – that’s resolved – ” Glider spoke,
the poked Silverfox. “You wait.”
    “As for Whitetail – even though he is a fully trained
military person – the reason he doesn’t hold any rank…is
he declined it. He willingly serves the Meldaron military forces, but he did
not want any recognition or ranking…which in his words – ‘Were
more shrapnel’ – that he would be forced to carry. He loves the
freedom and such he has…and does not go for military pomp and ceremony….
He prefers to carry out his mission priorities, then get it done – and
return to a life free of the military strictures and rules.”
    “He is a renegade?” Silverfox asked.
    “Well – yes and no. He will do all that is asked of
him – for the cause – but he does not like being bound to the military
staffing meetings, debriefings and other such bureaucracy that all military
forces seem to propagate. He just believes in getting the mission orders –
getting the mission carried out – and getting out again. Preferably, with
a successful mission and in one piece….” Deerinea told them.

    “What of our training? What can you
hope to tell us of it?” Silverfox asked.
    “Regrettably, not much – you will undergo basic training
and weapon skills, and once you’ve passed those – you’ll move
on in to your more specialised training fields.” Deerinea admitted.
    “Will we – you know – still have time for each
other?” Glider asked.
    “Of course – but there may be times – when due
to different mission parameters, that you’ll be separated. I will try
to keep you all together – as with some luck – you’ll form
the base of my own personal squad. I will apply for special training, and if
I pass – then I will be your squad’s commanding officer –
” Deerinea told them.
    “Lieutenant – we’re set for landing….”
Spoke the pilot.
    “Inform base medical staff – we’ve got the patient
and need urgent medical assistance in the landing bay.” Deerinea sighed.

    “Yes – sir.” Replied the pilot, as he quickly verified
landing protocols and relayed the message to the groundside controllers.

    Quietly, the shuttle passed through
the shielding of the base – then touched down gently on the landing pad.
Within moments, the medical team was aboard and stabilised the wounded pilot
– before they moved him out in to a stretcher.
    “Efficiency – ” Silverfox spoke.
    “Well – we’ve got a limited number of pilots
– and we sure can not afford to lose any of them. Ground tracking stations
can only do so much for us – but we need the Meldaron pilots – to
go on routine scouting patrols…to ensure our safety.” Deerinea told them.

    “What of the Star-Crushers in orbit?” Glider asked. “Won’t
they detect the launching and such?”
“It is a danger – but our star-fighters are small enough…and fly
low and fast. Schinicin orbital sensor sweeps get all confused, as the natural
terrain around here has a high magnetic ore deep within it – that masks
and distorts sensors.” Deerinea smiled. “It’s one of the reasons –
why we built our base here hundreds of years ago.”
    “If the terrain – ” Silverfox began.
    “Our technicians had worked that out – and our systems
are attuned – somehow – to filter out the magnetic interference….”
Deerinea replied. “Come on – let’s report in to the mission officer
– and get our debriefing….”
Glider and Silverfox moaned, dreading the debriefing and subsequent discussions
on their missions to come….

           
On-board the Schinicin Flagship

    “Sire – ” Spoke the Commander.

    “Yes Commander?” Replied the Grand Admiral.
    “Sire – a report from field operative Commander Zur-Tarn….”

    “Patch it through.”
    “Yes sir.”
There was a brief hiss of electromagnetic interference, and then the black scaled
dragon’s holographic image flickered in to view before the Grand Admiral.
He bowed deeply.
    “What news do you have for me Commander Zur-tarn?” Asked
the Grand Admiral.
    “Sire – I’ve tracked the subject as per your
orders….” Commander Zur-tarn replied.
    “Excellent…. Relay all information to me personally
Commander…. What have you discovered?”
    “Sire – this…thing …lives in an
abandoned mine shaft complex. I am lying hidden, and watching it closely. I
await your orders….”
    “Commander – I want you to organise a squad of your
finest operatives – and I want you to enter that complex…and retrieve
the Tome of Zra-Chak. How long do you need to get your forces mobilised and
ready?” Asked the Grand Admiral.
    “Sire – I can have my handpicked squad operational
within thirty minutes….”
    “Do it – ” Spoke Sith Hirr Draconis. “I want that book
Commander…and I do not care what it takes.”
    “Yes sir – relaying orders to Camer garrison now sir….”

    “Remember Commander – do whatever it takes –
to capture that book.”
    “Sire – what of the Hyena?”

    “Have him – ” Paused the Grand
Admiral. “Have him taken prisoner…and brought before me personally. I
will delight – in showing him the – error – of trying
to betray me….”
    “By your command sire.” Spoke Commander Zur-tarn. “I live
to serve the Emperor.”
With that, the holographic image flickered and faded. Slowly, the Grand Admiral
raised his bulk and walked across the bridge of his flagship. Silence reigned,
as no one dared to try and second-think the Grand Admiral. His reptilian face
betrayed no emotions, making it impossible to guess what he was thinking. Pausing,
he stared out through the view-port at the planet below – then he turned
and swept from the bridge….

           
Outside the Mines of Turak-nai – Abandoned Caldon Mines, Peacock Hills.

    Patiently, the Commander of the Dragon
wing waited for the arrival of his reinforcements. When they arrived, he gave
the waiting twelve commandoes their preliminary briefing.
    “Alright – subject is to be acquired and held for the
Grand Admirals pleasures. Orders are to capture the Tome, and to likewise capture
and imprison the Meldaron – who has tried to betray the Grand Admiral.
Move out….”
Stealthy, the Schinicin commandoes moved out, their movements quiet and frighteningly
quick. Like shadows, they flicked from one patch of darkness to the next, as
they entered the abandoned Caldon mine….

    Using their night-vision visors, they
made their way down in to the inky depths, searching for traps and hidden adversaries.
Every now and again, the decrepit mines would creak and moan ominously, and
there was the soft hiss of escaping steam. An occasional snap of electricity
was heard, as some of the broken electrical cabling swung and struck the damp
walls. As quietly as they could, they made their way deeper in to the groaning
mines, watching and their weapons held at the ready….

    Without warning, a steam pipe ruptured
and two Schinicin commandoes barely began to scream – before they were
literally boiled alive by the superheated steam. Their agonising death cries
echoed eerily down the tunnels, along with the loud hissing of the scalding
steam….
    “Squad – move on….” Commander Zur-tarn breathed.
“Move on….”
Some of the Schinicin commandoes brought out their motion tracking devices,
and activated them. A faint – tick, tick, tick – came from
the trackers, barely audible in these dim, dark and very dangerous mines….

    There was a loud burst of static,
then a high pitched electronic squeal, followed by more static. A nearby speaker
erupted in to a shower of sparks and flames – as it exploded. From seemingly
everywhere, comes the Hyena’s crazed laugh….
    “Welcome – I don’t think….” Teric
taunted them. “Knew come did I!”
    “Squad – keep moving….” Growled their leader.

    “That’s it – keep coming – to your deaths!”
Teric giggled insanely. “Welcome, to my home. I hope you’ll like it…as
it’s going to be your home…for a very long time….”

Some of the Schinicin commandoes exchanged glances, but kept moving forwards.

    “Sir Scaly sent you – didn’t he?” Teric growled
dangerously. “Hmm…is he too scared to come down here and do his own dirty
work?”

    Moving onwards, the Schinicin checked
any and all of the crisscrossing passageways, hunting down their quarry.

    “Turn back – or die….” Teric snarled. “I shall
warn you not again.”
    “By order of his Imperial majesty – you are to surrender
and come out. Should you refuse – then we will shoot to kill you on sight….”
Growled the Commander.
His voice faded in to echoes throughout the mine complex…. From somewhere
far below, there was an explosion and the mine rocked, as debris and small pebbles
rained down from above. Great steel girders, that supported the overhead supports,
creaked ominously.
    “No – ” Teric giggled. “I think I not come out. Much
more fun this way – isn’t it?”
    “Has it occurred to you – ” Snarled the Commander.
“That we will shoot you dead?”
    “If you knew where I was – then perchance – I
might be interested in knowing,” Come Teric’s cryptic response –
via the old mine PA system…. “Since you do not know – I
will enjoy this game most pleasantly….”

    Another explosion rocked the mine,
and somewhere far behind them, there was the loud rumble of tortured girders
and rock! A sickening wave of shocks ripped through the mine, and part of it
caved in behind them, sealing the entrance. Dust and debris pattered down –
as the last aftershocks slipped away and the falling rocks and debris ceased.
A choking pall of dust drifted nonchalantly down the tunnels.
    Once more, the mine’s PA system crackled in to life,
and Teric’s insane giggle rang out.  “Hey – ” He gibbered.
“That one wasn’t too bad!”
“Has it occurred to you – ” Snarled the Commander. “That this mine complex
– isn’t altogether stable?”
    “Actually – ” Come Teric’s soft chuckle. “You
know something? You’re right! It’s not stable – but then again
– neither is my hold on my own sanity! Heads up scalies!”
Without warning, two great mining droids erupted from the walls…. Their
massive gnashing rock chewing jaws clanged and gnashed – and three Schinicin
commandoes were instantly turned in to mince – as the great mining droids
shredded them alive…. Green reptilian blood spurted everywhere, as the
hulking machines made surprisingly short work of the three Schinicin commandoes
– before they began chewing their way back in to the mine walls, making
new passageways….
    “Commander – we’re losing too many – ”
Spoke one of the worried commandoes.
    “You have your orders – carry them out. We’re
expendable – we all know that – but the mission must be completed….”

    “I didn’t sign up for….” Snarled a Schinicin
soldier.
Without hesitating, Commander Zur-Tarn un-holstered his pistol – then
shot the Schinicin soldier dead.
    “Alright – move on.” He growled, then holstered his
pistol.

 Yet again, the old mine PA system crackled in to
life and the now familiar mocking laughter crackled forth.
    “Have we had enough yet – my scaly friends?” Come the
taunting voice.
    “Damn you – ” Commander Zur-Tarn growled. “I’ll
personally delight in tearing your heart out….”
    “Commander – movement….” Spoke one of the Schinicin
soldiers.
    “Where?” Snarled the Commander.
Quickly, the Schinicin soldiers checked their motion trackers.
    “In front – behind – wait…everywhere!
We can not lock on to it!”
Twisting about, they tried to track the movement on their sensors, but it was
useless. Their tracking sensors crackled louder and louder – as the approaching
threat closed in on them.
    “Alright – spread out…ready weapons….”
Snapped the Commander. “Take positions….”

    A deep sub-harmonic hum began reverberating
through the very rock itself, and the Schinicin commandoes glanced about, barely
keeping their fear restrained. Without warning, two dozen mining droids erupted
from the walls, ceiling and even the floor, catching the Schinicin soldiers
unawares…. Within seconds, there were Schinicin laser fire ricocheting
off the walls and ceiling, and their agonised screams – as the droids
laid in to them. Watching in horror, the Commander watched as a Schinicin commando
was felled, as a scything blade from one of the droids easily and literally
cut the legs off one of his soldiers. Green reptilian blood spattered wildly,
as the Schinicin’s will was broken. Only three managed to hold their wits,
the others throwing their weapons to the floor and running. As if thirsty for
the blood, the droids ran them down – and one of the Schinicin screamed
– as a Droid seized him from above…and literally tore his head
off of his neck….
    “Fall back!” Screamed Zur-Tarn. “ Fall back!”

All around him, the merciless Droids decimated the remaining Schinicin, with
only three managing to retreat – covering their leader…. As suddenly
as the slaughter had begun – it was over and the droids vanished once
more – back in to the walls, floor and ceiling….
    “Commander Zur-Tarn…calling Camer garrison…come
in….” Spoke the Commander in to his communications system.
A deafening squeal of static interference was his only reply….

    “Commander Zur-Tarn – calling Maloner garrison…come
in….”
More static….
    “Damn it – these mines are interfering with our communications
systems…come on – let’s get this mission completed….”
Growled Zur-Tarn.
    “Sir – ” Spoke his most loyal of soldiers.

    “Do you hear me – you bastard!”
Shrieked the Commander. “We’re coming for you….”
    Again, the PA system crackled.  “I look forwards to
it…my scaly friends. Come – seek me out – if you dare. I
have warned you, and I shall not warn you again. If you turn back –
then I shall let you leave. If you do not – then you will perish….”

    “I am Commander Zur-Tarn – Commander of the Dragon
Wing, serving under direct orders of Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis….
I order you to surrender…and come out of hiding….”

    “Lovely speech Commander – but I don’t think
I’ll play your game – ” Teric giggled, then signed off again.

    “Sir – ” Spoke one of the Schinicin commandoes. “We
should fall back – and call for reinforcements.”
    “Stow that corporal – we’ve been assigned this
mission, and we’re going to see it through. Understand me?” Growled
the Commander.
    “Yes – sir.” Replied the Schinicin. “By your command.”

Slowly, the Commander drew a deep breath through his chlorine rich breathing
apparatus, and then he gestured for them to move out.
    “Alright – you – ” He spoke, pointing
at one of the soldiers. “Take point…and stay alert for danger….”

Nodding, the Schinicin soldier did as he was told, holding his weapon ready….

    They made their way deeper in to the
abandoned mines, and finally – they reached the main shaft. Legend had
it – which this twenty-meter diameter shaft was the longest man made hole
in the galaxy…. No railing or guards walled this pit; the crumbling formex
floor just dropped straight in to the main shaft of the mine…. Gusts
of smoky wind rose above the lip of the precipice released from the raging plasma
fire ten or twenty levels down. Noises too, drifted up – humming power
cabling bursts of superheated steam, groaning support beams and the ominous
crackling of the flames – far below. Flickering orange, red and yellow
lights from the out of control fires far below licked and illuminated the fifty
meter diameter chamber – casting strange; twisting shadows on the walls
and ceiling. Cables and winches were scattered about the pit shaft, trailing
downwards in to the depths of the pit. Pipes, steel cables, ropes, vents, and
even grills – in all manners of shapes, sizes and states of decay –
lined the pit walls. Ancient cargo netting swung back and forth from some cables,
swaying softly in the incredible heat haze generated from the slowly rising
plasma fires – ten levels down.

    Every now and again, an explosion
rocked the mines – and a gust of sulphurous heat gasses and flames erupted
from the shaft to lick at the ceiling…. Hesitantly, the Schinicin made
their way to the edge of the precipice – then they looked down. Shimmering
heat haze lashed them as they realised there was no safe way down –
other than the old – frayed cables.
    “We’ve come this far – ” Spoke Commander Zur-Tarn.
“We can not turn back now….”
    “Sire – ” Asked one of the Commandoes.
    “Get moving corporal – or I personally will
kick your reptilian hide off this precipice – and you can experience the
joys – in being instantaneously cremated in those plasma fires below….”
Grated Commander Zur-Tarn. “Move out… now.”
He watched, as two of the soldiers each grabbed a cable – and began rappelling
down the shaft to the second level. They made it safely, even though it was
an exceptionally dangerous climb –, as they feared the explosive outburst
from the plasma fires below…which were steadily climbing higher and higher,
building up to a massive explosion. Commander Zur-Tarn began his own laborious
rappelling…and he was three quarters the way down – when a massive
explosion rocked the mines, nearly making him lose his already precarious hold
on the cable. Following him, the last Schinicin commando was not so lucky –
and with a reptilian scream of terror – he fell…. He plummeted
down the shaft, then was immediately vaporised by the phenomenal heat of the
raging firestorm below him…. Slowly, using every ounce of strength he
possessed – Commander Zur-Tarn began swinging from side to side, and soon,
landed softly on the side of the ledge….

     Facing them – was a massive
steel shuttered door. Immediately, the Commander ordered the two remaining Schinicin
to take apart the door controls – which they did….
    “Still with me scalies?” Come Teric’s mocking voice,
through the mine PA system.
    “You’ve gone one step too far….” Snarled Zur-Tarn.
“You’ve cost the empire a great deal of money – time and effort.
Already – you’ve cost the empire ten good troopers…and no
more. I will personally tear the pelt from your mangy hide….”

    “Ooh.” Teric giggled his voice crackling and becoming static
filled. “Sir Scaly has lost his pet lizards?”
    “When I get my claws in to you – “
    “Not when – Commander.” Teric chuckled sinisterly.
“If….”
    “Do not play psychological games with me….”

    “Commander – I will do as I see fit. I’ve enjoyed
this game so far – but it’s rapidly losing its appeal. You were
interesting – but not anymore…. A shame – but now –
I shall destroy you all….”

    Surprised, the Schinicin soldiers
stared at the blast door, as it grated its way open in a shower of sparks….
An instant later – the ceiling of the tunnel exploded in to a raging inferno,
the flames blasting out through the door…and setting alight the two Schinicin
commandoes. One of them began screaming, his scaled face burned – his
mask melting in to his very snout and face. Shrieking and strangling –
he staggered backwards, globs of his melting flesh dripping from him and sizzling
on the floor. Shrieking, his lungs burning within him – he staggered at
the edge of the precipice – then fell in to the abyss beyond. In agony,
the other soldier turned to the Commander; half his mask melted away –
the precious chlorine gas hissing from his ruptured suit and mask. Clawing desperately
at the horrified Commander – the Schinicin soldier gasped – then
clawed at his face, tearing the flesh from it in great chunks and gouges. Sickened
beyond recollection, the Commander could barely un-holster his sidearm –
then shot the dying soldier.  Flames licked at the doorway, and appeared
to reach out for the Schinicin Commander. He dropped to his stomach, then with
only inches to spare – dragged himself across the floor of the chamber
beyond, nearly having his cold blood boiled within his reptilian form….
Finally, he made it through and slumped against the wall, then slapped the door
controls closed. Panting heavily – both through fear and exhaustion, he
moaned….

    Once again – the mine PA speakers
crackled in to life.
    “I grow weary of this hunt – ” Come Teric’s soft
and menacing growl. “I hereby give you thirty minutes to throw down your arms
– and surrender to me. If you do not surrender – then I
shall seal this mine closed…and watch gleefully as it collapses in on
itself – with you inside it!”

    The PA system crackled it’s
way back in to silence once more….

    After a few moments – the Commander
dragged himself back to his feet. He drew deeply of his sorely depleted chlorine
gasses within his suit…and he staggered towards the far side of this
room – towards the shut door he spied. Grimly, he reached out and pressed
the door sensor…and slumped in through the door – as it hissed
open. As his reptilian eyes dragged themselves up – he stared at his quarry…who
sat nearby…at a massive computer console. Slowly, the plague riddled
Hyena turned around in his chair – then he threw back his festering muzzle
and squealed in maniacal laughter….
    “Well, well…” Teric giggled hysterically, as he rose.
“You’ve made it! I’m impressed Commander….”
    “You – will – die!” Gasped the exhausted Schinicin
Commander.

    Teric rose, then the Schinicin got
a very close look at the Hyena. One eye was milky white – and part
of his muzzle bones poked through the raw and ragged wounds in the hyena’s
snout. Sickened, the Commander gagged, as the Hyena raised his hands –
as if about to deliver a benediction. Fetid globs of rotting flesh fell from
the Hyena’s arms…to fall to the ground with sickening wet plops.
Blood, pus and worse dribbled from the myriad wounds, and even maggots could
be seen living in the festering wounds that ensconced this Hyena.
    “How…can you survive….” Gurgled the Commander.

    Teric howled with lunatic pleasure – then cavorted
sickeningly about the chambers. More and more of his flesh peeled from him,
showing either blood soaked bone – or the rotting tendons and muscles
beneath the fur.
    “It is not I…” Teric gibbered. “Who poses the
question…it is…you!”

    Without warning, the Commander lashed
out – but Teric broke apart in to thousands of glittering sparkles….
Too late, the Schinicin Commander realised – he had fallen for an excellent
trap – that he himself – admired. There was a loud slicing sound,
and then the Commander clutched at his throat – as the precious chlorine
gas vented from his ruptured mask pipes…. His eyes bulged, as the deadly
Meldaron oxygen rich atmosphere flooded his body, and literally – exploded
his lungs…. With a sickening thud – the Schinicin Commander crumpled
– and lay convulsing on the ground….
    “Aww…” Teric giggled. “Poor little lizard go bye byes….”

Laughing hysterically, Teric cavorted once more about the chambers, then retrieved
his knife…and began work….

           
Meldaron Base – Silverfox’s and Glider’s Quarters.

    After their debriefing and follow-up
reports, Silverfox and Glider returned to their quarters…exhausted. Silverfox
slumped down on to her cot and Glider came over, then began massaging the tense
muscles of the young Vixen. Silverfox moaned faintly, relaxing under the gentle
ministrations of Glider.
    “There are times – ” Silverfox moaned.
    “When – you could tie lead weights to my feet –
then see if I can fly?” Glider asked and laughed.
    “No – ” Silverfox grinned wickedly. “When I could see
– just how….”
A hooded and cloaked figure appeared in the doorway, it’s eyes glittering.
Silverfox squealed in alarm, and Glider leapt up – looking guilty.

    “Is this a private party – ” Come the soft whisper.
“Or can anyone join in?”
    “I – err…” Glider stammered.

    Slowly, the figure moved in to the
chambers, then reached up – and cast its deep hood back, revealing the
smiling muzzle of Mack.
    “Mack!” Silverfox squealed in abject pleasure.

Mack barely had time to brace himself, as Silverfox and Glider crashed in to
him, then hugged the young Wolf in a bone-shattering embrace.
    “Hey – ” Mack choked. “Hey – I love you two as
well…but please – be gentle!”
Silverfox burst in to tears of joy and hugged the young Tashan even tighter,
until Mack feared he would either strangle – or be turned in to jelly….
Finally, Glider managed to restrain the overcome and nearly hysterical young
Vixen.
    “Mack – I thought….” Silverfox wept. “I thought
we were really going to lose you….”
    Mack tenderly sat down, then shuddered. “If you hug me like
that again – you will.” He gasped, then rubbed his bruised ribs.

Even Glider was overcome in joy at being reunited with his beloved friend –
and none of them noticed as Deerinea and Whitetail appeared in the doorway….

    “I thought – ” Whitetail smiled. “That it was customary
– for lesser ranking soldiers to rise and come to attention – then
salute a superior officer?”

    Silverfox, Glider and the wounded
Mack squealed, then did exactly that. Deerinea smiled weakly and returned their
salute.
    “Alright – at ease….” Deerinea spoke.

    “When – ” Silverfox began.
    “Mack came out of his coma, ” Deerinea spoke. “A few minutes
after we had left on our mission….”
    “Then why – ” Glider began.
    “It was deemed necessary.” Whitetail answered simply. “Mack
needed some physiological testing…and a thorough medical assessment,
before he could be released.”
    “I’m just so – ” Silverfox sniffled.
    “I know – but he’s not out of the woods yet.
There is some residual nervous system damage, but the medic’s here –
are sure – that with the proper therapy and maybe a small operation –
that they will be able to repair the worst of the damage. Anyways, you two recruits
get a good nights sleep – because you’re commencing your training
first light – tomorrow.”
    “When?” Glider asked.
    “0400.” Deerinea smiled. “Welcome to the military….”

    Glider stood with a confused look
on his face, and Silverfox moaned loudly.
    “0400? Four am in the morning ?” Silverfox gasped.

    “That’s right – I hate to be cruel – but
you recruits had better get used to it…as you’re both in for a
shock….” Deerinea sighed.
    “Mack – will you be alright?” Glider asked.

    “I will be – if these military Doctors’ would
stop taking blood tests! I haven’t got any blood left in me!” Mack smiled
weakly. “Go on – I’ll join you both…when I can….”

Whitetail led Mack back to the infirmary, and then Deerinea sighed softly.

    “I wish we had more time to train you both properly…but
it seems, the Schinicin are moving in on the Blue Moon Valley…and all
available forces are being recalled and mobilised. It seems that there was a
massive explosion in the Mines of Turak-nai – the abandoned Caldon mines,
in the Peacock Hills. Unconfirmed reports have said that there was some sort
of Schinicin deployment there – and that when the mines went up –
they were killed. We dare not send out scouting parties, but our field operatives
are attentively listening…trying to work out – what those loathsome
reptiles wanted – with an desolate and unused Caldon mine….”

    “So – ” Silverfox asked.
    “So – all our forces have been placed on high readiness,
as this may signify a new Schinicin plot. Now – we’re assigning
missions for our operatives, and it looks – like we’re next on the
hit list. There’s a well-defended refinery on Trelish Island. Our scouts
report that the Schinicin are using it as a primary refuelling station, and
if we could neutralise the refinery – it would be a blow to the Schinicin
divisions….”
    “I suggest you two get some sleep – as there is a high
alert running, and I do not wonder – if the Commander will bypass your
training – and drop us all right in to the thick of battle….

    “We’re going too – ” Silverfox asked in awe.

    Deerinea moaned, then headed out the
door.
“More than likely – we’re going to battle…as early as tomorrow….”
Deerinea told them, as she left the chambers.
Glider slumped down on to his cot and Silverfox did likewise, then pulled off
the heavy combat boots.
    “Oh…wonderful – ” Glider moaned. “We’re
getting thrown in to the deep end, with next to no training….”

    “Well – at least we’re better suited for it now….
We’ve both learned a lot since this war started…and we’re
not kids anymore…. I’m sure, that Whitetail and Deerinea –
if the orders come through – will do all that they can, to ensure our
safety.”
    “I know that – I just wish…we had training and
such – before we were cast out of the frying pan – and in to the
fire….”
    “Wait and see…” Silverfox yawned. “We’ll just
have to wait and see.”

    Early the next morning, Whitetail
and Deerinea dragged Glider and Silverfox awake.
    “Come on!” Whitetail barked sharply. “Let’s move!”

Silverfox moaned and squeezed her eyes tightly closed against the overhead lighting.

    “Up and at them corporals!” Deerinea snapped. “On your feet!
That’s an order!”
Knowing better than to disobey their superior officer, Glider and Silverfox
struggled up through the depths of their comforting sleep, and woke.

    “Deerinea – these two are soldiers?” Whitetail groaned.
“I’ve seen molasses move faster than these two!”
    “Come on!” Deerinea yelled. “Move out! Now!”
Shaking themselves fully awake, Glider and Silverfox were hurriedly dressed
and half-dragged down the bases hallways and in to the main briefing chamber.

    “Good morning…corporal’s ….” Come
the sharp barking voice of Major Blacktalon.
Silverfox and Glider swiftly come to attention and saluted. Major Blacktalon
returned their salute, then spoke.
“I hate to be the bearer of bad news…but things are worse than we first
thought. Schinicin forces are strengthening their hold on this valley…in
a vain effort to track us down, and without fail, annihilate the Meldaron resistance.
I’ve got your mission orders right here – and I’ll let Captain
Uzuri outlay the plan of attack for you…and answer any questions that
you may have….” Major Blacktalon spoke. “Captain Uzuri – if you
please.”

    A black haired and furred Vixen took
the podium, then glared down at them as if in contempt. After a few moments,
she cleared her throat and spoke.
    “I am Captain Uzuri, the mission briefing officer….
Now, lights.”
Immediately the lights were cut, plunging the area in to partial darkness. A
projector started up and showed them a view of the Schinicin refinery, on Trelish
Island.
    “This is the objective – the refinery on Trelish Island.
We’ve managed to gain the help of some of the indigenous intelligent animals
that used to live on the Island. They are called the Sessesh…. They have
a very primitive culture, and can speak some Meldaron – but…well…they’re
exceptionally high strung and potentially deadly. They have found a secret way
in to the refinery…and are awaiting our arrival.”
Another picture replaced that of the refinery. It was a closer picture, and
a large red circle was drawn about a large series of pipes, that ran down in
to the bay.
    “This is the water cooling circulatory system – whence
you shall enter. I need not remind you that the bay is heavily mined, and that
the refinery is likewise heavily defended by Schinicin forces and large numbers
of anti-air and anti-ground defences. Your mission is to secretly enter via
the underwater pipes…and make your way to the control heart of the refinery.
Here, place the sequencer charges…and whilst the Sessesh distract some
of the soldiers, place further charges at and around critical pipe junctures
– and the primary or secondary storage tanks…. Once you’ve
done so, get the hell out of there – as you’ll have thirty-minutes
to make good your escape…before the entire refinery, if all goes well,
is blasted in to scrap. Good luck….” Captain Uzuri spoke.
    “All right – you’ve heard the mission briefing…any
questions?” Major Blacktalon asked.
    “Sir – do we have any estimations on Schinicin force
deployment in and around the refinery?” Whitetail asked.

    “Sadly – no. We can not get
any of our infiltration people in to the refinery. You’ll be going in
blind on this one…. We’ve already established however, that there
is a sizeable contingent present – but exactly how many – and what
other defences – we’re unsure.”
“Will thirty-five minutes be enough?” Glider asked.
    “It better be…corporal .” Cpt. Uzuri growled.
“If you’re not at the dust-off site within that time – you’ll
not need a shuttle to fly….”
Glider opened his mouth to speak, but a sharp glance from Deerinea silenced
him.
    “Any other questions?” Captain Uzuri asked.
Surprisingly, there was none.
    “Alright – you’ve got the parameters…let’s
move out. A shuttle is standing by to deliver you to the drop zone, whence you
will approach using a small ship, disguised as a fishing vessel. Once you’re
within range, switch over to your diving gear – and enter in through the
water cooling circulation system. Once inside, carry out the mission. I do not
need to warn you all…of the very real dangers. Should you or any of your
team be caught – or killed, then we will not attempt a rescue.
This is a dangerous mission, but I am sure, that you can handle it….
If we can neutralise this refinery – then the Schinicin forces will be
seriously displeased…and their supply and refuelling of their armoured
divisions will be extensively hampered….” Major Blacktalon growled. “Good
luck – and may Millar watch over you all….”

    Saluting, the companions ran from
the briefing room and down to the supply officer. Here, they were outfitted
with the correct equipment, then hustled down to the landing bay, where the
shuttle was fuelled and ready for immediate departure. Quickly, they stowed
their equipment and the controllers gave the shuttle an immediate clearance.
With a roar – the shuttle launched itself down the launching tubes and
out in to the pre-dawn sky.
    “Anyone tell you two – ” Deerinea smiled. “That you
look cute in black?”
Glider smiled weakly, but his face was quite pale.
    “Scared Glider?” Whitetail asked.
Glider glanced at Whitetail and shuddered.
    “It’s alright…we’ll take care of you two.
Just stay close…and listen to our orders, as your lives will depend
on it….” Deerinea spoke, as she checked the oxygen tanks for their S.C.U.B.A.
equipment. “I just hope – we’re capable of doing this….”

    “A walk in the park – ” Whitetail grinned mischievously.
“In and out…simple!”
Glider turned his pale face towards Whitetail.
    “That’s – easy for you to say. You’re both
used to this sort of thing….”
Whitetail smiled and patted Glider’s shoulder.

    “That may be true – but deep
down – I’m just as scared as the rest of you, believe me….”
Whitetail admitted. “Do any of you – know the working life of a good field
operative?”
    “No.” Silverfox admitted.
    “Three to five years of active service…. I’ve
exceeded that – by three times the limit, so, you could say – that
I have a good right – to say that I’m scared….”
They flew on in silence, the shuttle running dark, flying steadily eastwards.
Finally, after two hours – they set down at the easternmost edge of the
continent of the Blue Moon Valley.
    “All out – come on – let’s hustle!” Whitetail
spoke sharply, his voice filled with command.
Quickly, they disembarked and retrieved their equipment. Whitetail walked down
to the water edge, then verified with the Captain of the vessel, and he returned.

    “Okay – let’s move out….” Deerinea spoke.

    Carrying their heavy tanks, vests,
weapons and other essential equipment down to the boat, they clambered aboard
and the Captain pulled out in to the dark waters of Trelish Bay.
    “I pray – ” Deerinea asked the Captain. “That you know
this bay is mined?”
Favouring her with a baleful stare, the Captain turned back towards his console,
where he pressed a button…and the passive sonar flicked in to life. Deerinea
nodded and headed below decks, where she briefed the others.
    “It’s about a two hour trip – to the drop-off
site.” Deerinea spoke. “I don’t like this any more than anyone else…but
we’re going to have to increase speed. Meldaron’s suns are set to
rise in an hour and a half…and I’d rather not be on-board
this boat, when the sun comes out. We’d be sitting ducks, if any Schinicin
fighters or cutters – happened to be out this way.”
    “Cutters?” Glider asked.
    “Schinicin naval patrol boats…. They’re quick
– hellishly overpowered with weaponry – and would cut this boat
– and us – to ribbons in seconds…. Of course, should
we contact one of these mines – then they won’t have to bother….”
Whitetail spoke up.

    For the next hour and fifteen minutes,
they played a deadly game with the Schinicin mines, which littered the bay.
Finally, Deerinea rose and began pulling on her wetsuit and tanks.
    “Suit up soldiers – we’ve got a refinery waiting
for us….” Deerinea spoke.
Whitetail helped Deerinea in to her suit and tanks, and then Glider assisted
Silverfox. Once both female anthro’s were suited up, they assisted their
male counterparts. Walking slowly up on to the deck, they were greeted by the
Captain.
    “Good luck….” He spoke simply. “I’ll be here
– providing that the Schinicin don’t get bored – and decide
to use this ship as target practice….”

    Deerinea nodded, and then they slipped
over the edge in to the dark, turbulent waters of Trelish Bay. Already, the
sky had visibly lightened and Deerinea led the way, then they slipped beneath
the seemingly placid waters…and using small one-person propulsion pods,
they made their slow trip to Trelish Island. It took them the better part of
thirty minutes to make the trip to the island, and here, they found the meshed
water cooling circulatory system pipes. Quickly, Whitetail inspected the pipe
for any possible traps or alarms, before he removed an underwater cutting device
and began systematically cutting through the thick steel bars. Fifteen minutes
later, he had made a path through, and they entered the pitch-dark pipes….

    Swimming silently, they made their
way deep beneath the island, and finally, broke the surface three hundred meters
in. Another security barred grate blocked their exit, and they shed their wetsuits
and tanks, before Whitetail inspected – then neutralised – the Schinicin
security systems. Using a small camera, he scanned the aboveground area, before
setting to work on the rusty lock on the grating. After a few moments, there
was a soft click…and he oiled the rusted hinges well, before he could
quietly open the grating…. Gesturing quickly, he made his way out and
the others followed him. Rechecking their weapons, they moved stealthily towards
where a small group of creatures sat – then rose and greeted them.

    “Garna – ” Spoke one.
Silverfox looked at them, and was surprised to see that they resembled three-foot
long river otters.
    “Garna – ” Deerinea greeted him. “Surak?”
    Carefully, the otter named Surak nodded.  “Come –
lizards not in area.” Spoke Surak. “Come….”
Whitetail and Deerinea followed the Sessesh leader to a small hatchway. From
below, came the sound of rushing water.
    “Come – ” Surak spoke. “We take.”
Deerinea looked at Whitetail, who opened the hatch and climbed quickly down
the ladder and stepped in to the freezing water below. Surak followed him, then
Deerinea, Glider, Silverfox and lastly – the last six of the Sessesh warriors.

    “Come – way this.” Grunted Surak.

    “This water’s freezing!” Silverfox
gasped.
    “Once we set the charges – I assure you…” Deerinea
spoke quietly. “It’s going to get a damn lot warmer!”
    “Come!” Surak growled, getting impatient. “Lizard patrol
area this!”
Hurriedly, they moved down the slippery pipe, using their paws and hands to
brace themselves – so they didn’t slip and fall. Twenty minutes
later, they reached a junction.
    “You – this go way.” Spoke Surak, as he gestured to
the right.
    “Control chambers – this way?” Whitetail asked.

    “Go – way this!” Nodded Surak. “Go!”
Deerinea glanced quickly down the dark tunnel, then looked meaningly at Whitetail.

    “Okay – you three take the control centre – I’ll
follow the Sessesh to the primary storage tanks…. We’ll meet back
here – in fifteen minutes. Go!” Whitetail hissed.
Deerinea didn’t like the idea, but she acquiesced and synchronised her
watch with Whitetail’s.
    “Go – tank way store this!” Spoke the leader of the
Sessesh.
    “Good luck – ” Deerinea whispered. “Be careful –
“
    Whitetail grinned mischievously.  “Hey! I always am!”
He replied, then followed the Sessesh down the other branch of the tunnel.

Deerinea rolled her eyes and led Silverfox and Glider down the other branch,
heading for the refinery control centre….

           
Tunnels Beneath Trelish Refinery – Deerinea’s Squad

    Deerinea made her way beneath the
refinery, trusting to her instincts more than anything. Using a small, easily
concealed light, she briefly shone it ahead, then found an access ladder and
hatchway. Quietly, Deerinea crawled up the ladder, then used a similar camera
system to peek in to the chambers beyond. It appeared to be a storage facility,
with a large number of large crates and other storage devices. Just as Deerinea
turned her camera, preparing to retract it, she stopped and let out a strangled
curse.
    “Deerinea – what’s wrong?” Silverfox hissed.

    “Damn!” Deerinea moaned. “They’ve got a motion sensor
set on this hatchway. I’ve got to disarm it…before we can get passed
it.
    “If you don’t – ” Glider asked.
    “If I don’t – ” Deerinea echoed. “More than likely
– we’ll bring the entire Schinicin forces down here…in record
time. Now, please – be quiet…as this is…delicate.”

    Positioning her camera system, Deerinea
retrieved some small tools and set to work on the Schinicin motion sensor. After
five minutes, she breathed a sigh of relief and slid open the hatch above her
head.
    “Damn – I really hate those things….” Deerinea
whispered, as she pulled herself up through the hatchway.
Deerinea knelt and assisted Silverfox, who made her way up the ladder. As Silverfox
then helped Glider – Deerinea knelt and disarmed a powerful explosive
device, which had been attached to the sensor.
    “Nice – a thermite package…. They’re learning….”
Deerinea spoke quietly.
    “What’s – ” Silverfox asked.
    “Thermite? A great explosive – highly dangerous –
and really designed to make paste out of almost anything. There is enough here
– to take out about a thirty square meter radius…. Here!”

Deerinea threw the thermite charge to Silverfox, who squealed and nearly dropped
it. Deerinea growled dangerously then made a silencing gesture.
    “Are you crazy?” Deerinea hissed in exasperation.

    “You said that – ” Silverfox whimpered.
    “Thermite – needs an electrical charge – to trigger
it off…. Make another noise like that – and I’ll tape your
muzzle shut! We’re not certain where the Schinicin are deployed –
and to be honest – I’d rather not find out!”
Silverfox swallowed then bravely bit back the tears, which shimmered in her
eyes.
    “Silverfox – I…I’m sorry….” Deerinea
whispered. “I didn’t mean to frighten the fur off of you like that….
It’s just – well – I’m just as scared, as you both must
be. We’re operating within a tight schedule – and inside an enemy’s
compound…. We’ve got to be very careful….”

    “I…understand….” Silverfox
whispered back.
Deerinea loaded and cocked her pistol, as did Silverfox and Glider. Quietly,
Deerinea inspected – then opened – the door to the storage chambers.
Using her small camera, she scanned the hallway – before she gestured
them outside.
    “Come on – let’s move out….” Deerinea
gestured silently.
Obediently, Silverfox and Glider followed, trying to be as quiet as Deerinea,
but their occasional click of a footstep brought Deerinea almost to tears. As
carefully as they could manage, they made their way down the hall – where
Deerinea found a map, built in to the wall. Inspecting it swiftly, she took
a picture of it, to use as reference for their escape….
    “This way – ” Deerinea breathed in to her comlink system.
“Whitetail, are you receiving me?”
    “Affirmative…” Come Whitetail’s response. “Loud
and clear.”
    “We’re about – thirty meters – from the
control chambers…. It’s quiet… too quiet.”

    “Same here – we’ve found the main junction for
the inlet pipes…just placing the first of the sequential charges….
Make it fast Lieutenant, as we’re running on very borrowed time
here….”
“Will do – Deerinea out.” Deerinea whispered.

    They made their way down another passageway,
and finally – to the heart of the control centre. Placing her camera under
the door, Deerinea spotted two Schinicin soldiers standing guard – either
side of the door – on the other side. Five more soldiers stood attentively
nearby, watching the Meldaron technicians, who were monitoring the gauges and
computer systems….

    From around a corner, a young female
technician entered, then she screamed in terror. Without thinking, Deerinea
had un-holstered her pistol, then within a split second, the female technician
flew backwards, her chest exploded from Deerinea’s blaster shot.

    “Damn it!” Deerinea wept. “Now our cover’s blown!”

Startled Schinicin voices cried out in the control chamber, as a piercing alarm
began ringing. Deerinea kicked in the door, then threw in a small grenade. Ducking
back beside the wall, there was a loud concussive explosion, then Deerinea leapt
in to the control chambers.
    “Cover me!” Deerinea screamed, as she began shooting the
stunned technicians and Schinicin.

   
Intruder alert – intruder alert – intruder alert
– Come the computerised alarm.

    Two Schinicin soldiers came running
around the corner, and Silverfox dropped them both, before they could bring
their weapons to fire. From behind, four more come running and as Silverfox
turned to fire, Glider threw down his weapon – and outstretched his hands.
Deadly lightning ripped in to the Schinicin soldiers, making them buck and scream,
as Glider poured all his rage and hate in to the lightning attack. Within seconds,
it was over, and the Schinicin soldiers were barely recognisable – their
charred corpses emitting a sickening stench of burned flesh – and boiled
reptilian blood.
    “Deerinea – we got company!” Glider screamed.

    “I know!” Deerinea shot back. “I’m setting the charges…now!”

    “Corporal Silverfox,” Come the comlink voice. “What in the
abyss have you lot done!”
    “Whitetail – our cover’s blown…abort mission…abort
mission!” Deerinea screamed in to her own comlink.
    “NO!” Whitetail’s angered snarl come back. “This
is too damned important!”
There was a brief sound of laser fire, then Whitetail’s growl.

    “Just set those damn charges…and run!” Whitetail
shrieked – before there was a deafening explosion…and the hiss
of static….
    “Whitetail…Whitetail !” Deerinea shrieked.
“Whitetail!”
Silverfox and Glider shot dead three more Schinicin soldiers, as they heard
Deerinea’s heartbreaking sobbing from within the chambers.
    “Whitetail…” Deerinea wept. “No!”
    “Deerinea – we can not hold them off much longer!”
Silverfox snarled. “Get those charges set!”

    Just as Deerinea finished setting
the timer on the last charges – there was a loud and ominous click….
Deerinea approached – then a Schinicin Captain appeared in the doorway.

    “Freeze – or else you and your companions…are
dead.” He growled. “Drop your weapons…”
Deerinea, knowing that there was nothing she could do, surrendered. Quickly,
Schinicin demolition experts neutralised the charges and Deerinea was ordered
to put her hands on her head, before she was brought out in to the hallway.
Silverfox and Glider were standing with their hands on the back of their heads,
and they looked miserable.
    “You shouldn’t have tried to infiltrate this complex
– ” Hissed the reptilian Captain, as he gestured to his troopers. “Take
them away…and have them executed, along with the others we’ve captured.”

    “Yes sir – ” Spoke the Sargent. “Alright – move!”

    Marched at gunpoint, they were led
through the hallways and tunnels – and finally – out in to the main
refinery courtyard. Kneeling nearby, under the watchful eyes of thirty Schinicin
soldiers and their weapons – was Whitetail and the Sessesh that had accompanied
him. Blood matted Whitetail’s head and he looked decidedly uneasy –
but only moderately wounded.
    “Move!” Growled the Sargent.
Led over to where the others knelt, they were then ordered to their knees. Slowly,
the Schinicin Captain walked past them, his reptilian muzzle wrinkled in extreme
displeasure.
    “I’ve wanted a chance to get out of this posting –
for some time….” Snarled the Captain. “Now – with your capture
and imminent execution…I will be relieved of my command of this miserable
posting…. Now, I shall find myself in more conductive surroundings –
perchance – serving on the Grand Admiral’s flagship itself!”

    “Your Empire is doomed – you know that, don’t
you?” Silverfox growled.

    Smiling, the Schinicin Captain caressed
her furry muzzle tenderly – then savage slapped her across the muzzle.
Silverfox screamed in agony, as his razor like claws tore great furrows across
her snout. Instantly, blood welled in the wounds. Glider twitched in rage, and
a Schinicin soldier struck him savagely on the back of the neck, with his laser
rifle. Glider gurgled and crumpled.
    “No, my young Meldaron’s – ” Laughed the Captain.
“It is you – the resistance – that are doomed. Already, Schinicin
forces have established our stranglehold on your world – and where is
the fabled Meldaron resistance? This? Are you the resistance that is supposedly
going to topple the mighty Schinicin Empire? No – I do not think so….
So – tell me – where is the secret base? Or would you prefer –
that we shoot one of you first?”
Silverfox wept in agony, Glider groaned and Deerinea and Whitetail remained
silent.
    “Oh – the silent treatment is it? So you’re not
going to tell me?” Asked the Captain.
Without warning, he un-holstered his sidearm and shot dead one of the Sessesh….
Smiling, he ran the pistol barrel lightly across Deerinea’s muzzle, then
rested it right between her eyes.

    “Well now – are you going to
tell me? Or do I need to shoot another one of your friends?” Asked the Captain.

    “We’ll die – before we tell you where it is….”
Deerinea whispered.
    “Oh – I think – that you will tell me
– what I wish to hear….”
Deerinea screamed in agony, as a Schinicin soldier broke her tail in two places.
It broke with sickening snaps, and Deerinea’s screams tore the heart out
of her friends – and Whitetail – her mate.
    “Oh – I’m sorry – did that hurt?” Smiled
the Captain. “Tell me – or else – we’ll continue.”

    Deerinea barely held her emotions under control, her two
broken tail vertebrae aching like acid. Under the orders of the Schinicin Captain,
one of the soldiers grabbed her tail – then ground the two shattered vertebrae
together…. Sickening crunches came from the two crushed vertebrae as
they were ground against each other…. Deerinea screamed and screamed
– until she was incapable of even breathing – and only broken choking
sobs came from her throat. Silverfox, Glider and Whitetail bravely held their
resolve, even though it shattered them to hear Deerinea’s agonising torture….

    “Tell me – ” Whispered the Captain. “OF where –
the secret base is – and the pain will stop….”
Again, they broke another of her tail’s vertebrae and Deerinea could no
longer scream – she just didn’t have the ability to draw the breath.

    “You can not hold out much longer – I know it….
Tell me, my young Pearldinean – because of one thing…I know
this hurts….”
    “Peacock – hills!” Silverfox broke. “The base –
it’s located in the Peacock Hills, sixty-five miles – south/southeast
of Quarq Village….”

    With a growl of displeasure, the Captain
slammed his clawed foot in to Deerinea’s stomach, his claws ripping in
to her soft belly fur and flesh. Blood began pulsing from the wound and he turned
away in disgust.
    “Sargent – order a flight to the Peacock Hills….
NOW!” Snarled the Captain.
    “Sir – ” Replied the Sargent then ran to carry out
the orders.
    “Now – my young Meldaron enemies – you will…die!”

Just as the Schinicin raised their weapons to fire – laser blasts began
laying in to them. In the confusion, Silverfox, Glider and Whitetail exploded
in to motion and struck out. They managed to knock down their Schinicin guards,
and steal their laser rifles. Chaos exploded, as over three hundred Sessesh
erupted from hiding, then began attacking the Schinicin soldiers. They were
armed with spears, rocks, bows and arrows – and a precious few had stolen
Schinicin laser pistols and rifles. Everywhere, Schinicin soldiers were running
for cover, or firing wildly at the streaming horde of Sessesh, that poured out
of drainage ditches and other areas, where they had lain hidden. Silverfox crushed
the mask of one of the Schinicin soldiers, then shot dead another one. Glider
fired wildly, managing to shoot two more, and Whitetail kept close to the critically
wounded Deerinea, who lay convulsing on the ground. Screams of the dead and
dying carried across the refinery, as the Schinicin regrouped and called out
for reinforcements.
    “Come on!” Whitetail growled. “Get out of here! Get to cover!”

Schinicin reinforcements arrived and further added to the massive bedlam and
chaos that seized the battle…. Glider threw down is empty rifle, then
laid in to the Schinicin – and sadly – the Sessesh, with his lightning
powers. Agonised screams from both cold and warm blooded rang out, along with
the deadly sizzling of the lightning. Whitetail shot four Schinicin soldier’s
dead then crushed the skull of another one, before he began dragging the grievously
wounded Deerinea to safety. Silverfox and Glider laid down a weak covering fire
– Glider using his lightning and Silverfox her rapidly depleting laser
rifle…. Schinicin forces tried flanking them, but Whitetail threw a thermite
grenade and those Schinicin – were instantaneously vaporised in the explosion.
All around the battlefield lay the corpses of Sessesh and Schinicin, with no
visible outcome to the war.
    “I’m out!” Silverfox wept. “Now what?”

    Holding her useless laser rifle, she
used it as a club, to strike at the Schinicin soldiers, who attacked them. Glider
was shot and as he screamed and fell Whitetail threw another grenade, which
fell short and incinerated a dozen Sessesh warriors. Without time to grieve
for this tragic mistake, he snatched a fallen Schinicin’s weapon –
then lay down a withering hail of deadly laser fire. Schinicin soldiers screamed,
as the light repeating blaster literally cut them in half…. Silverfox
knelt beside her wounded friend, then rolled him over.
    “I’m – alright….” Glider gasped. “Go –
help Deerinea.”
Silverfox nodded, then as Whitetail continued his merciless firing, Silverfox
tore Deerinea’s black uniform open, then checked the deep slashes in her
stomach.
Silverfox, oblivious to her own deep muzzle wounds, stared in shock and surprise
at Deerinea’s pouch – which had borne the worst of the Schinicin’s
claws. It was deep wounds – from which blood poured in copious amounts.
Deerinea retched and choked, slipping in and out of consciousness. Overcoming
her surprise, Silverfox retrieved the medic pack from her belt, and administered
to Deerinea’s wounds – as best the first aid kit could manage.

    “What-ever you’re doing – ” Whitetail snarled.
“Make it quick! This gun is running out of ammunition real quick!”

    “Hold them off – just for a moment – ” Silverfox
wept. “I’m doing the best I can!”
    “Easier said – ” Whitetail growled. “Than done!”

    Silverfox used what few med-kits she
possessed and managed to partially patch up the worst of Deerinea’s wounds.
To her surprise, the remaining Schinicin soldiers threw down their weapons and
surrendered….
    “What the – ” Glider gasped, as he tightened a bandage
about his wounded arm.
Celebratory squeals of mustalid pleasure rang out from the Sessesh as they saw
the Meldaron shuttle clear the outer perimeter of the refinery, then touch down
gently on the landing pad. Silverfox and Glider walked out, followed closely
by Whitetail. As the shuttles hatchway opened, two dozen Meldaron soldiers boiled
from within and surrounded the surrendered reptilian soldiers. Lastly, the hooded
and cloaked figure strode down the ramp and approached the friends. When it
had come to a stop, it reached up and cast back it’s deep hood.

    “Mack!” Silverfox squealed. “What in Millar’s name –”

    “Come on – we’ve got a refinery to take out…haven’t
we?” Mack smiled.

    Two more Meldaron shuttles landed
and the Schinicin were taken prisoner and led in to the shuttles. Mack ordered
two field medics over to assist Deerinea and Silverfox, and then he shook Whitetail’s
paw warmly.
    “What in – ” Whitetail began.
    “One of the Sessesh alerted us to danger…. Unfortunately,
we didn’t make sense out of the Sessesh’s words – until it
was almost too late. He was saying something – about an ambush or something.
Still, we’re very glad – to see that you had the situation
contained….”
    “What – of the Camer spaceport tracking station?” Whitetail
gasped. “You’ll have the Schinicin – “
    “That tracking station – has been destroyed. Some special
operatives managed to infiltrate the station – and have destroyed it.
Sadly, they were captured and executed, trying to escape….”
    “What of the Schinicin forces?” Whitetail whispered.

    “They’re in a state of alarm at the moment…but
they’re soon to recover. Come on, let’s rock this island!”

Whitetail watched, as the field medic’s worked to stabilise Deerinea;
and heal Silverfox’s deep wounds. They retrieved new charges and some
of the soldier’s spread out through the complex, rounding up the last
of the Schinicin forces – which surrendered without a single additional
life being taken. Within twenty minutes, the three shuttles blasted from the
landing pad, as the first of the charges exploded…. Within seconds, the
other sequenced charges detonated – and the entire island became one massive
explosion – as the Schinicin refinery was destroyed. A massive shock wave
and fireball spread out from the destroyed refinery…. Such was the extent
of the explosion and shock wave – that the Meldaron shuttles bucked as
the shock wave passed them.
    “Sweet Millar – ” Silverfox gasped through an oxygen
mask, as she glanced out of the shuttle’s windows at the burning refinery….

    “Hey – if it’s worth doing – it’s
worth doing well!” Whitetail smiled, then turned his attention back to flying
the shuttle….

    Again and again, other explosions
rocked the decimated refinery, as the fires raged out of control – fuelled
by the massive petrochemical supplies beneath the island, that were being continuously
pumped up in to the blazing inferno. Indeed, they had struck a decisive blow
against the Schinicin occupation of their world – and they knew the
Schinicin would not take this lying down….

           
Aboard the Schinicin Flagship

    Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis’
rage grew in to new and unparalleled heights.
    “What do you mean?” He snarled in fury. “Trelish Island is
what?”
    “Gone – sir….” Cringed one of the sensor operators.
“A massive explosion – has destroyed the primary refuelling station and
refinery….”
    “How! I want answers to this outrage!” Shrieked the Grand
Admiral.
    “Sir – reports just come in…. A small Meldaron
squad was captured attempting to set charges in the control and pumping areas….
This reports only a fragment – as we’ve lost the Camer relay and
tracking station as well!”
    “Somebody tell me what is going on!” Raged the Grand Admiral,
losing what little of his patience had remained.
    “Sire – reports from Camer say that the tracking and
relay station – has been totally destroyed!”

    Without warning, the Grand Admiral
seized the young sensor technician – then using his massively powerful
jaws – bit the head off the young reptilian officer. Disgusted, he then
dismembered the corpse and went on a murderous spree – slaying anyone
that he could reach. Those wise enough, took cover – as the Grand Admiral
bathed the bridge of his flagship in green reptilian blood…. His temper
finally burned itself out, leaving the dead and dying technicians and officers
scattered across the bridge – like discarded toys. Silence reigned on-board
the Schinicin flagship, as the Grand Admiral reigned in his anger, then retook
his throne and smoothed down his glistening scales….
    “I would like – ” He hissed, his voice faint and barely
audible. “Those who were responsible for this – to be found…. I
care not for what it takes – but I want them found! Further –
have this bridge cleaned….”
    “Sire – a Schinicin shuttle is requesting landing clearance….”
Spoke a controller.
    “Permit it to land – I have been expecting this –
it is Commander Zur-Tarn, returning with my treasure….” Spoke the Grand
Admiral.
    “Aye sire – by your command.” Replied the technician.

    Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis rose,
then walked slowly from the bridge of his flagship – his scaled tail twitching
spasmodically….  After fifteen minutes, the door sensor alarm buzzed
in the Grand Admiral’s quarters. He wiped the monitors of any information
of importance, then swivelled his massive throne around to face the door.

    “Come!” He snapped.
Quietly – the door hissed open and Commander Zur-Tarn walked in, then
bowed on one knee before the Grand Admiral.
    “Tell me – ” Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis breathed
expectantly. “That you have completed your mission?”
To the Grand Admirals alarm, Commander Zur-Tarn’s body began rippling,
then his scaled hide and head crumpled to the ground – revealing the festering
body of Teric….
    “You!” Retched the Grand Admiral in alarm and sickening
nausea.
    “Did my pet scaly miss me?” Teric giggled.
    “Guards!” Sith Hirr Draconis snarled. “Guards!”

    Teric struggled free of the hide of
the fallen Commander and looked at it disapprovingly. A large patch of his muzzle
flesh peeled away, revealing the blood smothered bone beneath.
    “Guards!” Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis shrieked.

    “Oh – your guards…. I’m sorry –
they’re…indisposed….”
Teric snickered, then reached in to a small bag and pulled out a pair of reptilian
eyes.
    “I see you!” He giggled insanely – then threw them
at the Grand Admiral.
    “You – “
    “Well – he didn’t need them anymore….”
Teric shrugged nonchalantly.
Teric continued giggling, then walked about the chambers, eyeing the numerous
holographic pieces of artwork and statues, that adorned the Grand Admiral’s
chambers.
    “What – do – you – want?” Gurgled the Grand
Admiral.
    “Oh – what do I want?” Teric smiled mischievously,
his festering muzzle wrinkling.
He resumed walking around the chambers.

    “I am most…most …displeased
with you Grand Admiral….” Teric growled. “I thought that we had a deal….
So – you tried to betray me….”
    “I – do not know what you’re talking about.”
Snapped the disgusted Grand Admiral.
    “Oh – come on now….” Teric snarled in sudden
rage. “Do not play games with me!”
Repelled by the true insanity that lurked within this creature – the Grand
Admiral’s eyes widened.
    “You sent your commandoes after me – in an attempt,
which failed – as you might have noticed….”
    “I never – “
Teric threw back his head, then tore open his outer robes. Strapped to his body,
was an impressive amount of Thermite, primed and set to detonate. Teric rested
his paw on the trigger.
    “Do you know –” Teric snarled in hysterical rage. “Just
how much damage – this Thermite will do to your beloved starship?”

    Horrified, the Grand Admiral backed
away, nearly stumbling over his own feet. His reptilian eyes bulged in terror.

    “I’m sure – we can come to an – agreement?”
Whispered the Grand Admiral.
    “No more games Grand Admiral – I’m not noted
– for my tolerance to people who try to doublecross me…” Teric
seethed, then tightened his grasp on the trigger.
Thoughts flashed through the Grand Admiral’s head, as he wondered how
to best take down this danger – without Teric possessing the time –
with which, to destroy this entire Star-Crusher. As if reading his mind, Teric
smiled – then pressed another trigger.  A deafening explosion ripped
through the heart of the Star-Crusher, and emergency warning klaxons blazed
and wailed, as a computer voice announced a hull breech in the port hangar bay,
and the fire that was even now, spreading in to the surrounding decks.

    “What have you done?” Hissed the Grand Admiral.
    “A simple display – of my true powers….” Teric
shot back. “Oh, don’t worry Sir Scaly – as the fire isn’t
any real threat…. However, should we not reach an agreement, then
I will detonate the other charges – and finally – this one….
It will vaporise not only myself, but also you – and destroy this entire…and
I might add…impressive …capital ship. I’ve been busy
you see – and I’ve had access to a great many areas of your vessel….
I’ve got enough Thermite on-board your ship…to take out a major
capital city…and make a crater about five hundred meters deep and two
thousand wide…so don’t screw with me!”
    “May we – discuss this rationally? I’m sure –
we can reach a…mutual…agreement on our terms?”
    “Correction…Captain .” Teric growled dangerously.
“It’s my terms – or nothing. I’ve already shown you the lesser
powers that I have…and I’m quite sure…you do not want me
to turn you…and your precious Starship…in to dust?”

    A beep on the communications console
broke the silence. Teric grunted and the Grand Admiral reached out and depressed
the button.
    “Speak – ” Hissed the Grand Admiral, watching Teric
warily.
    “Sire – our scouts have returned from the Peacock Hills
– and they report – that there is no evidence of the Meldaron base
out there….”
    “Our…scouts?” Grunted the Grand Admiral.
    “Yes sir – didn’t you authorise the sending out
of the scouting party – to the Peacock Hills?”
Teric threw back his head and wailed hysterically with insane laughter.

    “Sire – are you alright?” Come the voice.
    “I’m – fine. Have the scouting ships scan the
area of the Trelish Island…for any possible survivors from the refinery
explosion…. Alert the Cutters to patrol the area and keep active sonar
lookouts for submarines and such….”
    “Sire – the cutters were taken out in the refinery
explosion….”
    “What!”

    “Sire – they were being rearmed
and refuelled – when the refinery was destroyed. We’ve lost the
entire naval fleet there – “
    “Get me someone in command down there!” Snarled the Grand
Admiral. “I want answers to this outrage!”
    “Sire – groundside communications have been cut –
as we lost the tracking and relay station at Camer…”
    “Send a shuttle – I don’t care!” Shrieked
the enraged Grand Admiral. “Just get me some solid answers to this! NOW!”

    “Sire – we’re working on modifying the backup
relay station at Foxville – but we estimate that it will be a few days
– before it’s operational….”
    “You have your orders – carry them out….”

    “Aye sir….”

    The comlink fell silent once more.

    Agitated, the Grand Admiral leaned
back on his hind feet and rubbed his burning eyes with his scaled paws. Teric
approached, then poked the Grand Admiral insultingly in the stomach.

    “It seems – ” Teric giggled hysterically. “That you
have – some problems….”
    “Get out!” Shrieked the Grand Admiral.
    “Now – now….” Teric hissed. “You forget who
is in control here….”
Drawing a deep breath, the Grand Admiral growled and relent, then sat back down
on his throne.
    “Now – Captain.” Teric sighed. “I’m sure,
a scaly – disgusting lizard like yourself, can appreciate the dangers
you’re up against?”
    “What – do you want from me?” Grated the Grand Admiral,
finally admitting defeat.
    “What I want from you – I shall take. Do you understand
me? I want my fleet of warships – and I want them…now!”

    “I – can not just make an entire
fleet of star-crushers materialise at the snap of my fingers….” Sighed
the Grand Admiral. “Each of these vessels – takes over three standard
years – from conception, to completion….”
    “I’ve got all the time in the world Captain –
just you remember that. Oh, whilst I think of it – should any of
your troopers try to take me down – or disarm any of my explosive
devices – then they will all detonate…. So – I suggest,
you get on your shipboard communications and tell them, to leave them alone…or
else – we’ll all not need a starship – to fly through space…will
we?”
    “You – “
    “Times running out Captain…make that call….
I know you’ve got secret listening devices scattered all throughout
your fleet – including here. So, get busy – and let your troopers
know…or else…BOOM .”
With an exasperated sigh, Sith Hirr Draconis reached out and depressed a secret
button on his throne.   “All hands – this is the Grand Admiral
– Sith Hirr Draconis. A situation has arisen on-board this flagship. I
want all search parties to stand down…. I repeat – all search parties
– stand down. Further, all troopers – should you find any active
Thermite charges…do not … attempt to disarm them….
That is all….”

    Teric giggled insanely. “Excellent
Captain – there may be hope for you yet!”
    Sith Hirr Draconis sat back in his throne, then exhaled softly
and rubbed his aching head.   “Just how long – do you think
that your oxygen supply will last you?”
    “As long as it lasts – then you’ve got no problems….
Should I run out of oxygen, before my demands are met…then I guess…we’re
all going to be little chunks of debris, falling through Meldaron’ atmosphere…actually,
that sounds like fun!” Teric giggled.
    “You’re mad…totally mad….” Moaned the
Grand Admiral….
    “I know….” Teric snickered. I know….”

           
Meldaron Military Base

    When the three shuttles landed, medical
trauma teams were rushed to the shuttle and helped place Deerinea on a portable
stretcher. Quickly, she was led to the infirmary, and Silverfox was likewise
carried there, despite her protests that she could walk. Here, medical Droid
surgeons worked on Deerinea – and a young Alchemian Doctor approached
Silverfox.
    “Millar’s name!” He cursed. “What on Meldaron happened
to you?” Silverfox moaned, her muzzle wounds congealed – but hurting like
mad.
    “A Schinicin done this to her – and likewise –
to Lt. Deerinea.” Whitetail spoke.
Fetching his medical scanner, he ran it over Silverfox’s body and reported
his findings.
    “Well – other than the obvious deep trauma wounds to
the muzzle, there is significant ligament damage, muscle tearing and fractures
of the upper muzzle bones….”
    “It is repairable isn’t it Doctor?” Glider asked.

    “Oh – with our modern medical equipment – this
young Tashan will be back on active service – within three hours.”

    “Doctor – what of Lt. Deerinea?” Whitetail asked, his
concern choking his voice.
    “Ah – a Pearldinean…cross-breed?” He asked,
as he glanced at a data-pad. “That’s more complicated….”

    “Just give me the facts Doctor….” Whitetail sighed.
“I do not have time to play games….”
    “Well, there is extensive damage to the lower stomach regions,
and multiple wounds…. This young Pearldinean has lost a lot of blood…and
she’s critically sick. I honestly can not give you any accurate estimation,
as it’s just touch and go. It’s really going to depend on her. We
can heal the physical wounds – at least – those we can heal,
but due to her wounds – there is a high chance, that she has suffered
irreparable damage to her cerebral contacts and – “
    “So, is she going to live or die?” Whitetail snarled.

    “I – I do not know…. I can not tell you….
I will take charge of this patient personally, and do all we can – to
heal her.”

    “I – thank you Doctor.” Whitetail
sniffled – then left the infirmary.
Glider made a move to follow Whitetail, and then the Doctor seized him.

    “Hey! Just a minute – you’re wounded!” Exclaimed
the Doctor.
    “It’s – nothing…” Glider commented. “A
scratch.”
Forcing Glider to sit down, the Doctor un-wrapped the deep blaster burn and
shook his head.
“This – is a scratch?” He asked. “Wait a minute….”

    Quickly, the Doctor encased Glider’s
arm in some alien looking electronic machine – then he activated it. Glider
felt odd tingles run up and down his arm, then after five minutes, the Doctor
turned off the machine and removed it…. Glider’s eyes bulged as
he looked at where the sickening wound had been, now – there was only
a faint redness to the skin – to show where the deep wound had been.

    “Now – ” Smiled the Doctor. “You can go…. Oh,
do not worry about your friends, they’re in good hands…or…if
you prefer – paws.”
Glider thanked the Doctor, then followed Mack out in to the hallway. Here, they
found Whitetail pacing agitatedly back and forth. Mack reached out, then hesitantly
placed his paw on Whitetail’s shoulder. Whitetail paused – then
enfolded the smaller Tashan in a crushing embrace – as he burst in to
tears….

           
Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis’ Quarters – Schinicin Flagship

    “Captain – ” Snarled Teric.
“Let’s get this out in the open – “
    Sith Hirr Draconis sighed wearily, but kept his attention
firmly on Teric.   “I’ve already told you – that I can
not make a Schinicin Star-Crusher fleet appear out of thin air!”
    “As I was saying – Captain – ” Teric countered.
“I may be crazy – but I am far from stupid…. Surely, the almighty
Schinicin Empire has – shall we say – reserve naval ships?”

Sith Hirr Draconis growled deep down in his throat. Indeed, this cunning Hyena
was indeed – not stupid.
    “Of course – ” Sith Hirr Draconis acknowledged. “That
goes without saying.”
    “How many vessels in the reserve fleet?” Teric asked. “Actually
– how many Star-Crusher class capital warships?”
Teric waggled the trigger to the explosive charges threateningly. Sith Hirr
Draconis sighed again.
    “Thirty-five capital class vessels, fifteen of which –
are the Star-Crusher class, ten are the Interdictor class – a smaller,
faster warship, and the remaining five consist – of the Elysium class
– a light – inter-system patrol interceptor….”
    “Impressive – most impressive…C aptain.”
Teric mused thoughtfully. “Travelling at their maximum speed – how long
before they reached Meldaron?”

    Sith Hirr Draconis quickly worked
it out, based on a myriad of possible pathways through space.
    “I do not have all year Captain….”
    “It would – under attack speed – take them four
days….”
    “Very well – give the order Captain – to the
reserve naval fleet, to go to the Dalnarian IV system…. Here, they will
wait. Have all authority turned over to me personally – and then –
only then – shall I be transported over to the flagship. Here,
I want the transponders and communication frequencies changed – to my
own choosing…. Once I am safely aboard and in complete control,
shall I give you the location…of the prize you so desperately seek.”

    “Then?”
    “Once I am in possession of my new naval fleet – shall
you gain the Tome of Zra-Chak…. Oh, should you try to double cross me
again…then you will never find the Tome….”

    “You make a hard bargain…but I accept….” Growled
the Grand Admiral. “Still, what of your demands for being installed as regional
governor of this sector?”
    “With the warships at my command – I will carve my
own empire…. I am quite assured – that there is enough inhabited
planets in this galaxy – for us both, is there not?”
    “So – ” Mused the Grand Admiral. “You want to make
a truce with the Schinicin Empire?”
    “Yes – but only when – I have complete control
over my crew – and naval fleet.”
    “Very well – consider it a temporary mutual alliance.
I’ll deliver the Schinicin reserve naval fleet – as per your orders…and
when we’ve completed this charade – I’ll never have your disgusting
presence infest any Schinicin fleet vessel again? Also – you’ll
turn over the Tome of Zra-Chak to me?”
    “That’s the idea – Captain.” Teric smiled.

    “How can I trust you?”
    “Ah – that’s the catch…you can not. Still
– we have an agreement…that is mutually beneficial to us both…wouldn’t
you say?”

    Against his better judgement, the
Grand Admiral placed a priority message through to the Schinicin home world…and
began preparations for the mobilisation of the Schinicin reserve naval fleet….

    “I’ll have the necessary truce documents drawn up immediately
– ” Spoke the Grand Admiral.
    “You have four days – to deliver my demands Captain….
Do not – try to betray me again….”
With that, Teric marched from the Grand Admiral’s quarters, and for once
– the Grand Admiral acknowledged – a foe worthy of his respect….

    “Sir – ” Come a communication.
    “Give him free passage Commander – and have a Schinicin
shuttle placed at his disposal….”
    “Aye sire…by your command….”
Slowly, the Grand Admiral breathed out in exasperation…. He dreaded,
having to inform his majesty – of this unforseen turn of events….
Indeed, Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis began to wonder – if indeed –
it wouldn’t be a halfway bad idea – just to self destruct his naval
fleet…rather than face that – which the Emperor had planned for
him….

    Deerinea spent the next few days in
the infirmary, as the Meldaron forces continued their guerilla strikes against
the weakening Schinicin defences…. Indeed, their well-laid plans were
coming to fruition – but this was all too soon change….

           
Major Blacktalon’s Office

    “Lt. Deerinea – let me congratulate
you on your recovery…. I trust, you’re suitable to return to active
service?” Major Blacktalon asked.
    “Yes sir – I’ve been given clearance to return
to service.” Deerinea spoke. “I am, understandably – not back to my former
self just yet…. However, I am fit for duty…sir.”
    “Whilst I think of it, congratulations on your mission in
destroying that Schinicin refinery…to all of you, the High Command extends
you their warmest thanks. Schinicin forces have been thrown in to disarray of
late – and the destruction of their primary refuelling station and refinery….
An excellent mission, but I am saddened to see, so many of your squad wounded.”

    “Major,” Whitetail asked. “Sir – permission to speak
freely?”
    “Granted.” Acknowledged the Major.
    “Sir – I wish to personally commend, Corporal’s
Glider and Silverfox, who, whilst under incredible stress for young recruits
– exhibited exemplary courage and resourcefulness, which, I feel, contributed
towards the success.”
    “Commendations noted and logged Whitetail, the High Command
will be informed, and I am sure – these two corporal’s will be awarded
medals – for courage under fire on the field…heroism…and
other accreditations. Of course, you and Lt. Deerinea will likewise, receive
special commendations – and medals for your own acts of valour.”

    “Captain Uzuri – if you please….” Major Blacktalon
spoke.

    Captain Uzuri took the podium, then
the lights dimmed. A holo-projector displayed the partially ruined city of Foxville,
and the Schinicin garrison, located on the outskirts.
    “As we all know, we’ve struck decisive blows against
the Schinicin forces. Now, we have unconfirmed reports – which the Schinicin
are working, on bringing online the control and tracking station at Foxville
spaceport. This control station – is exceptionally well guarded, as they
have learned from our destruction of the Camer tracking station – and
we must find a way – to neutralise this other station. We suspect that
by utilising the sewers beneath Foxville, to infiltrate the city…and
destroy the power stations that supplies power to the city. With the power stations
destroyed – the Schinicin would not be able to bring this tracking station
online…and it would enable us to have a much more free reign for our
starships’ and fighters.”

    At Captain Uzuri’s command,
the picture changed to another shot, this one, of the main power stations. Even
though they were well defended, weaknesses had been detected.
    “This is one of the primary power stations at Foxville. Schinicin
presence at these stations are high – but by utilising the sewer network
beneath Foxville – and diversionary squads to strike other strategic areas
– we’re optimistic that this mission to infiltrate and destroy –
the power stations…will be successful. I personally, will be leading
your squad for this mission…and Lt. Deerinea, will lead the other –
diversionary forces….”
    “Captain – ” Whitetail spoke.
Captain Uzuri rounded on Whitetail and glared at him. Calmly, Whitetail returned
the stare.
    “What is it?” Captain Uzuri growled.
    “Sir – with all due respect, but is this advisable?
Lt. Deerinea and I have been part of a team – ever since we first joined
the Meldaron military forces….”
    “What rank do you possess soldier ?” Captain Uzuri
growled softly.
    Whitetail was unfazed by her apparent hostility, but replied
calmly.   “Sir – I did hold the rank of Colonel –
but I resigned my commission.” Whitetail replied simply.
    “Then – my orders stand…. Lt. Deerinea –
“
    “Sir – may I speak freely?” Whitetail interjected.

    Captain Uzuri’s paws clenched,
then she relaxed and nodded her head.
    “Sir – as I’ve already stated – Lt. Deerinea
and I are a part of a team…. We are both field operatives, serving under
– “
    “I do not care who you served under during the great
Meldaron War…. Now, you will do as I have said, or I will have you confined
to quarters.”
    “Sir – ” Whitetail spoke softly, but his voice tinged
with menace. “With all due respect – you would be advised – that
you would do better, than to cross my path….”
    “Whitetail – ” Major Blacktalon growled. “That will
be all.”
    “Sir – I will not allow – ” Whitetail began.

    “I said – ” Major Blacktalon screamed. “That will
be all! You have your orders – see to them….”
    “I – ” Whitetail protested. “Sir – I must protest
this – “
    “Your objections are duly noted Whitetail…. Now, squad
– dismissed.”

    Whitetail stalked from the chambers,
slamming the door sharply behind him. Lt. Deerinea sighed, then waited patiently,
until the others had left.
    “Sir – permission to speak freely?” Lt. Deerinea asked.

    Major Blacktalon sighed, then shuffled some papers on his
desk.   “Yes – Lieutenant?”
    “Sir – why have we been – “
    “Lieutenant – I do not try to second guess the mission
assignments. My job – is to ensure that they are carried out. I do not
know why the High Command has decreed that you both be split up…. Millar’s
herself knows – but she isn’t telling me. I know damn well
– just how close you two are…and how well you work together….
I’m sorry lieutenant – it’s out of my paws….”

    “Yes sir – thank you sir.” Lt. Deerinea sniffled softly.

    “Lieutenant?”
    “Sir?”
    “May – may Millar watch over you….”
    “Blessings for you too sir….”
    “Dismissed.”

    Deerinea returned to her quarters,
to find Whitetail packing up his few possessions.
    “Whitetail – “
    “Do not try to stop me Deerinea….” Whitetail wept.

    “Please – my beloved – wait….”

    “I knew that this would happen – ” Whitetail sniffled.

    “Please – let’s talk this over.” Deerinea spoke
calmly, then rested her paw on his shoulder.
    “What?” He snapped. “There’s nothing to talk about….
Ever since I retired my commission – they’ve treated me as a –
“
    “They’ve treated you?” Deerinea shot back scathingly.
“You are their best field operative, that they have. You are one of the highest
assets! Without your skills – the Meldaron resistance…would falter
and crumble!”
    “Nice speech Deerinea – but it’s not going to
work….” He growled.
    “So that’s it then – you’re just going
to leave?”
    Whitetail paused – then shuddered.

    “They do not – think of me –
as a soldier anymore. I’ve dedicated my life to the King, and to the Meldaron
military…. I retired my command – and my rank – because I
did not like the idea of being branded…. Now, as a civilian – I
find that I hold no authority within the military? Why do I bother? I will return
to where I know I am respected – and honoured for what I am….
I will return to the Temple of the Eye of Infinity – and help those there
– to rebuild the temple order….”
    “What of me?” Deerinea sobbed. “I do not like this order
– any more than you!”
    “Come with me – together – we can make
a difference….”
    “No – ” Deerinea wept. “I can not turn my back –
on the resistance – for anyone…or anything…. I would be
found – court-martialled and shot – as a traitor.”
    “Then – resign your command! Turn in your officers
ranking….” Whitetail pleaded.
    “Whitetail – you and I both know…I can
not do that. There are so many out there – scattered across thousands
of worlds – who live as slaves under the Imperial heel…. If we
do not make our stand now – then whom – will stand up to
them? We beat them once before – and by Millar’s blessing – we’ll
beat them again.”

    Whitetail paused – then he shuddered
again and quietly walked out of the chambers. Deerinea watched him, knowing
him all too well – and that he needed time – to think…and
to work out his inner demons, once and for all….

    “Lt. Deerinea – report to the
shuttle bay….” A voice come from her comlink system.
    “Lt. Deerinea here – will do….”
Deerinea sighed – then walked from the chambers she had spent with Whitetail….
Her head was bowed in grief, and she wondered – if she would ever see
her beloved mate…again.

           
Sewers beneath Foxville

    “Alright – ” Cpt. Uzuri whispered
in to her comlink, to the other members of her squad. “Everyone keep real quiet
– and watch your back…. Schinicin patrols of this city are everywhere
– but we’ve got unconfirmed reports…that the sewer system
has seemingly escaped their notice. I doubt that this is true – but we’re
really going to have to be extra careful. Corporal Silverfox – you take
point….”
    “Sir – ” Silverfox moaned.
    “That’s an order – Corporal….”
Captain Uzuri growled dangerously.
Silverfox shuddered, but did as she was told. Fear flooded the young Vixen’s
mind, heart and body – as she was totally untrained for this type of covert
operations…and did not know what to expect.  As quietly as she could
manage, Silverfox made her way forwards, leading the squad deeper beneath the
small Spaceport City of Foxville. Indeed, fear gripped most of the soldiers,
except for the most battle hardened, who remained quite calm and collective,
despite the darkness and the dangers inherent in this mission…. Mack
walked beside Glider, and they exchanged worried glances with each other. Glider
whispered something barely audible to Mack and Captain Uzuri’s ears perked.

    “Stow it Corporal – ” Captain Uzuri breathed in his
ear. “Or I’ll shoot you dead myself…”
Glider shuddered – as he realised that this young Vixen’s temper
was incredible – and barely restrained. He did not doubt that Uzuri would
carry out her threat….

    Finally, they had made their way to
the assigned location, and then Silverfox inspected the cover over their heads.
Finding it free of any alarms or other surprises, they quickly exited the sewers
– and found themselves inside the power plant. They emerged in to a small
storage facility, the loud hums of the massive power generators making the walls
and floor vibrate with power.
    “Squad – prepare weapons….” Captain Uzuri whispered.

They locked and loaded their assorted weapons, then broke in to two separate
squads of six people each. Mack and Glider were sent with one squad –
under the command of a Sargent and Silverfox was left under the cruel gaze of
Captain Uzuri.
    “Corporal Silverfox – take point guard.” Cpt. Uzuri
breathed in her ear.
    “Sir – “
    “Do it corporal. That’s an order….”
    Once again, Silverfox was thrust to the front – to
be the scout for her squad. Silverfox began to wonder what Uzuri’s true
intentions were, as she was sure that Captain Uzuri knew – that
Corporal Silverfox was not – properly trained for this type of stealth
and combat tactics….

    They made their way in to the generator
chambers, where the massive machines roared with almost painful intensity. Using
hand signals, Captain Uzuri gestured towards the other squad – who moved
off on the other side of the incredible expanse of the chamber. Here and there
– high above – they could see Schinicin soldiers, overlooking the
generators. Down on their level, the two squads kept their eyes wide open, looking
for any possible person – which would betray their squad’s location….
It was quiet – too quiet. Silverfox edged in beside a generator unit –
then come muzzle to mask, with a Schinicin soldier. His reptilian eyes widened
in shock – then pain – as Silverfox drove the blade of her combat
knife, straight in to his chest – right to the hilt. His pungent, green
reptilian blood gushed over her, making her fight the natural tendency to vomit.
As quietly as she could, she caught the dead soldier and lowered his corpse
to the ground. Another soldier near her, a young Pearldinean Stag – nodded
grimly to her.
    “Alright – don’t get cocky….” Come Captain
Uzuri’s menacing breath in Silverfox’s startled ears – via
the comlink system they all wore. “Nice kill – but next time – don’t
hesitate. Squad one – move out….”
    Stealthily, the two squads moved deeper in to the cavernous
power generator room and finally, they found the main generator control panel.
Whilst some of the squad members kept a very close eye on the Schinicin soldiers
above, others set the explosive charges and primed them for a ten minute timer.

    “Charges set – ” Come the demolition experts voice.
“Alright – we’re done here….”
    “Both squads – fall back to entrance and regroup…we’re
heading out.” Captain Uzuri whispered.

    Silently, the two squads fell back
to their rendezvous point, and made their way down in to the sewers again….
Quietly, they slipped the access hatch closed again, then began moving hurriedly
along the dark tunnels.
    “I do not like this – ” Whispered the young male Pearldinean
to Mack.
    “Neither do I…” Mack whispered back.
    “Corporal Shazri – I said…shut up!” Hissed Captain
Uzuri. “As for you Private Blackpaw’s – one more outburst from you…and
you’re doing time in the Meldaron military jail in Vallin – understand
me? Take point Private.”
    “Yes – sir.” Come the terrified young Pearldineans’
reply.
Little did the squad know – but they were walking right in to a trap…from
which, only a handful – would survive….

    Terrified, the young Pearldinean did
as he was told. Twenty meters away from the main group came his split second
cry – before a massive firestorm erupted and swept down the tunnel towards
them! Instantly, Glider knocked Mack and Silverfox down, in to the knee-deep
water that flowed through the sewers. It was probably, the only thing that saved
them from being incinerated. Others were not so lucky, and they bore the full
brunt of the vicious firestorm. Their screams were cut tragically short, as
they were burned alive – their charred corpses falling where they had
died. Captain Uzuri vanished mysteriously, and when Glider, Mack and Silverfox
broke the surface, the screams of the dying squad members tore in to them –
along with the angry shouts of the approaching Schinicin infantry…. Mack
burst in to tears, but Silverfox savagely slapped him across his snout, bringing
him back to a semblance of rationality. Quickly, Glider shot the lock off an
access hatch and he kicked the door open.
    “In! NOW!” Glider screamed, as the Schinicin soldiers fired
wildly at them.
Without thinking, they leapt through the access hatch, then found themselves
plummeting down a slimy stone slide…. Landing in chest deep water far
below, they broke the surface – coughing and choking on the stagnant water.
From above, come the Schinicin’s angry shouts – and the screams
of the Meldaron soldiers – as the Schinicin despatched them in cruel and
malicious methods.
    “Come on…move!” Glider growled in their ears,
seizing the two Tashan’s by the scruffs of their necks and roughly shoving
them. “I said…move!”
    “Sargent – send a detachment down there….” Come
a Schinicin’s angry bark.
    “Sir!” Come a reply.

    “Wait – ” Silverfox wept. “Our
weapons – we can’t – “
    “No time! Run!” Glider snarled.
Struggling through the deep water, they soon found themselves in a myriad of
interconnecting sewer pipes and tunnels, than seemingly ran for miles beneath
the city.
    “Mack – how can we get out of here?” Silverfox wept.

Concentrating, the young wolf paused – then he hesitated – before
he got his bearings and began moving rapidly forwards.
    “Come on – follow me!” Mack whispered. “This way!”

From far behind them, they heard the splash of the Schinicin soldiers –
as they slid down the stone ramp and set out in pursuit….

    Seconds later, the entire sewer seemingly
jumped and bucked, as the timers ran out on the charges that they had placed
– within the power station. Massive shock waves ran through the sewers
– and they distantly heard the crashes of rock, as parts of the sewer
caved in….

    Minutes dragged by in to hours, as
the three friends played a deadly game of cat and mouse with the pursuing Schinicin
soldiers. Finally, Mack led them around a corner – then he stopped. Blinding
sunlight streamed in to the tunnel – and they edged their way forwards
– to find themselves perched on a sixty foot drop-off – to the deep
and cold lake far below.
    “How – ” Silverfox began.
A Schinicin laser rifle shot ricocheted off the wall between her feet, singing
her tail. Without giving it a second thought – they jumped.  When
they struck the lake water, the coldness almost froze their blood…. Choking
and nearly drowned by the freezing water, they barely managed to swim to the
shore, the Schinicin soldiers firing wildly after them. Dragging themselves
up on to the bank, they had only a moment’s rest, before they all heard
the deep whine of approaching Schinicin star-fighters. Dragging themselves to
their feet – they fled blindly in to the covering forest, just as the
Schinicin star-fighters strafed the ground with their deadly laser cannons.

    “Now what?” Glider moaned.
    “Now – we make our way to the drop-zone…and
get the hells out of here!” Silverfox panted.
    “That may – be easier said than done….” Mack
whimpered, as he stopped and looked up….

    They all paused – to see a bedraggled
looking brush tailed possum, half crazed with starvation and thirst –
pointing a very deadly sniper rifle at them….

           
Aboard the Schinicin Flagship

    “Sir – ” Stammered a terrified
sensor operator. “We’ve lost contact – “
Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis cut the operator short…and his life.
With a lightning like strike – he decapitated the messenger – and
returned to looking out the view port of his Flagship.
    “We’ve lost contact with the Foxville Spaceport control
and tracking station – due to further incompetence….” Sith Hirr
Draconis whispered.
    “Commander!” Shrieked the Grand Admiral.
    “Sire – ” Whispered the Commander, standing right beside
the Grand Admiral.
Twisting about, Sith Hirr Draconis’ paw lashed out – then he seized
the smaller reptilian officer by the throat.
    “How – ” Grated the Grand Admiral, as he began to squeeze.
“Did – this – happen!”
Choking, the Commander clawed in-effectually at the iron like paw that was clamped
about his throat and indeed – his neck. There was a soft creaking sound,
and the Commander began convulsing wildly.
    “I want – ” Shrieked the Grand Admiral. “Answers!”

    With a final convulsive squeeze –
the Grand Admiral shattered the Commander’s neck – like a man would
crush an eggshell. Effortlessly, the Grand Admiral threw the corpse sixty feet
across the bridge – where it crashed against the wall and left a trail
of green reptilian blood.
    “Sire – it would seem,” Come a faint voice. “That we’ve
underestimated the – Meldaron spirit…sir.”
    “He who is it – who would offer such wisdom –
as if I really desired it?” Come Sith Hirr Draconis’ sibilant hiss.

Fearfully – the young officer rose and Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis
turned to glare at him. Swallowing in terror, the young reptilian officer trembled
visibly.
    “Tell me – of where – you think I have made mistakes
in the conquest of this… insignificant…little world?”
    “Sire – “

    Sith Hirr Draconis ensconced himself
on the deck, curling up and resting his chin on his scaled paw.
    “Come – speak with me….”
    “Sire – it would appear – ” Stammered the Lieutenant.

    “That we’ve underestimated – the Meldaron spirit….”
Echoed the Grand Admiral thoughtfully. “Tell me – lieutenant – of
how – you come to this…enlightenment?”
    “Sire – ” Swallowed the Lieutenant. “It is –
natural sir. We caught them unawares – but they – they’re
fighting back…. They care deeply – about their world….”

Thoughtfully, the Grand Admiral exhaled quietly, and then his eyes grew vacant
and empty. Shaking in abject terror, the lieutenant hardly dared even breathe
– fearing the Grand Admiral’s rage.
    “Tell me then – lieutenant – on how – we
should end this painful and protracted battle?”
    “Sire?”
    “You interest me lieutenant…. How long, have you served
under the Imperial Navy?”
    “Forty years – sire.”
    “Hmmm…and what have you learned in those four decades?”

    “Sire – ” Shuddered the Lieutenant.

    “Answer me – ” Growled the great dragon softly.

    “Sire – I have learned – to obey orders, to serve
the Emperor in all things – and never to question my superior officers
orders…or desires.”
    “I – see. What else?”
    “I – ” Trembled the terrified lieutenant.
    “Answer – now.”
    “Sire – I’ve also learned – than no battle
– is predicable…. They – all have a unique structure and
call for – different tactics, to achieve victory at whatever the costs.
No battle can ever be pre-planned – or no enemy – can be called
apon, to react in predefined ways, be they Schinicin, hyooman – or Meldaron.
If any creature – takes the field, in possession of a living – thinking
brain, capable of complex and rational thought processes, then the outcome of
any battle – be it large or small…can never be anticipated…sir.”

    Sith Hirr Draconis yawned widely,
displaying his deadly canines to their fullest extent. It struck terror in to
the hearts of the entire bridge crew….

    “Tell me lieutenant – of how
– you come to this conclusion?” Whispered the Grand Admiral softly, a
faint wisp of smoke issuing from his nostrils, as he closed his eyelids to slits,
which bored through the terrified lieutenant.
    “Sire – it is logical…. No computer –
regardless of how powerful – can replace the myriad complexities…of
a living, thinking, analytical mind. Something inside of all of us – gives
us an edge – in battle. It is our ability to think of possible repercussions
and reactions to our actions – that makes us all…so…unpredictable.”

    “I – see…” Hissed the Grand Admiral. “So –
how do we – conquer Meldaron, and completely beat her in to submission?
It seems – that the Meldaron’s – possessed something, which
we sadly – as a race – seem to be lacking…. What is it lieutenant?
Think carefully – as your very life – may depend on your answer….”

    After a few moments of being visibly
fried by the Grand Admiral’s unwavering stare, the young reptilian officer
trembled – then rose up proudly and defiantly.
    “Sir – they believe – that they have nothing
to lose, by giving their all – in saving their planet. By sacrificing
their own lives in the battle against overwhelming odds, they die having the
satisfaction, that they have fulfilled something…and done the very best
that they could. Meldaron lives not as a planet – but so long as a single
Meldaron anthro lives – Meldaron will live on…. To crush their
world – you would have to crush the entire race, which in turn –
would make this planet unworthy – for the Empire to use. Sire, they, as
a race – feel that they have nothing to lose – but instead –
everything to gain. So long as their race remains – the Empire –
will never break the Meldaron peoples spirits….”

    Silence settled heavily over the bridge
of the Schinicin flagship…. After fifteen agonising minutes of utter
silence – the Grand Admiral began clapping softly….
    “Excellent Lieutenant…you’ve seen the real
picture. I would never have foreseen that there would one day – be
a Schinicin Naval officer – worthy of being my successor…. Now,
in you, I believe that I have found this candidate for ascension….”

Quietly, the Grand Admiral rose then placed his paws either side of the young
lieutenants scaled shoulders.
    “By his Imperial Majesty – I hereby and forthwith –
declare upon you, the rank – privileges and responsibilities – of
the rank of Admiral, of his Imperial Majesties Schinicin Naval Fleet.”

Overcome, the newly elevated Admiral could only look up at his superior officer
with a look of shock and total disbelief.
    “Congratulations – Admiral.” Sith Hirr Draconis whispered.
“Take your command – you have the bridge….”

    With that announcement, Sith Hirr
Draconis swept from the bridge of the Schinicin flagship….

           
Somewhere near Foxville

    “Who – are you people?” Gasped
the mangy looking possum.
    “I – ” Glider began. “Am Corporal – “

    “Shut up!” Screamed the Possum, as he waved the sniper rifle
warningly. “Who are you?”
    “I am – ” Glider repeated.
    “Shut up…shut-up… shutup!” Screamed
the possum, as he collapsed, then convulsed wildly.
Seizing the opportunity, Glider managed to disarm the deranged possum –
and Silverfox injected the possum with a powerful tranquilliser – from
her field medicine kit.
    “He – ” Glider spoke, as he picked himself up.

    “He’s seriously deranged….” Silverfox whimpered.
“Look at him – his pelt is brittle and bone dry, his pads are cracked
and bleeding, his ribs are showing…. He needs urgent medical assistance
and immense psychological treatment.”
    “Is he a –” Mack asked.
    “I – do not know, if he is one of ours….”
Silverfox groaned. “He’s obviously suffered some severe trauma…and
it’s deranged him. I’d say, he’s been through Meldaron’s
hell – and back again. He is gravely undernourished and very dehydrated
– which would add to his possible psychosis….”
Mack sighed, then pulled out his emergency radio. Quickly – he set it
up and sent an emergency distress call to the waiting shuttle. Thirty minutes
later, the shuttle touched down about seventy meters from where they were hidden.
Glider and Mack carried the hideously underweight possum to the shuttle, and
then Silverfox followed…. Once aboard the shuttle, it took off and flew
directly back to the Meldaron base.  Once the shuttle touched down, Major
Blacktalon was waiting to welcome them back – but his muzzle betrayed
his distress – when he saw only three corporals emerge from the shuttle.

    “You three – my office – now.” Snarled
the Major.

    Fearing some terrible punishment,
the three friends hung their heads and made their way to the Major’s office….
Here, they filed inside – followed by the coyote Major, which smashed
the door closed behind him, then began pacing the office floor agitatedly.

    “Sir – ” Glider began.
    “Shut up!” Screamed the enraged Coyote.
    “Sir – if we may be permitted to speak – ” Silverfox
asked.
    “Corporal – you three are really in over your heads
– so shut up…and I’ll try to get you out of it…with
court-martialling only….” Shrieked the Major. “So just – for Millar’s
sake – keep your muzzles shut.”
    “Sargent!” Snarled the Coyote.
    “Sir!” Replied the Sargent, as he entered.
    “Have these three – confined to their quarters –
pending a full High Command judicial sitting….”
    “Sir?” Asked the stunned Sargent.
    “Do it!” Major Blacktalon shrieked. “Or you will
be joining them!”
    “Yes sir – alright – you heard the Major…move!”
Growled the Sargent.

    Shocked and bewildered – the
three friends were led from the Major’s office. Once they had gone, he
slumped down in to his chair – then glanced down at the documentation
and other evidence that lay within the green tabbed folders on his desk.

    “I can not believe it – ” Major Blacktalon whispered.
“I can not believe – these three are betraying the Meldaron resistance….
Yet – here is the evidence, to accuse them of treason against the Meldaron
forces…. There’s Schinicin secret transmission codes, high level
documentation on the base layout, location and defence systems – it just
doesn’t sit well with me….”
Angrily, he swept the folders and documents in to a locked cabinet then stormed
from the office….

    Silverfox, Mack and Glider sat in
their chambers, fear evident in their young faces.
    “What have we done?” Glider asked.
    “I wish I knew….” Silverfox whimpered. “I wish I knew….”

    “We’re being treated like – prisoners –
or something….” Mack sniffled.
    “Mack – ” Glider spoke. “We are prisoners. I
get the feeling – that we’ve been confined to quarters – pending
a full military court hearing, where if we’re lucky – we’ll
be court-martialled and only jailed for the rest of our lives….”

Silverfox shuddered violently.
    “If we’re unlucky?” Mack whimpered pitifully.

    “Then – we’ll be executed – as traitors.
We’re at war Mack…. Traitors will not be dealt with lightly….”

Mack burst in to tears, and Silverfox hugged the young wolf tightly. From outside,
come the guard’s angry growls, then some heated words. After a few moments,
the door was unlocked and Whitetail stormed in to the chamber.
    “I can not believe you three!” Whitetail shrieked. “After
all we’ve done for you – “
    “Whitetail – ” Glider spoke up.
    “Corporal – sit down and shut up!” Whitetail
snarled in rage. “How? How could you betray us like this?”
    Whitetail began pacing the chamber agitatedly, his paws clenched
in disbelief and rage.
    “What – “

    “Shut up – and listen to
me!” Whitetail seethed. “Within the day – you three are to be tried
before a full sitting of the High Command…on charges of treason,
spying and espionage.”
    “We – ” Silverfox wept.
    “Do not try to sweet-talk me Corporal – as it won’t
work. Evidence was found out, that you were actually spying on the Meldaron
forces – and passed along this information to your Schinicin companions….
Now, you’ll feel the full might of the Meldaron military….”

    “We – didn’t do anything !” Silverfox
pleaded.
    “No? Then how do you explain that you survived that
bungled raid on the power station, when both your own – and Lt. Deerinea’s
squad was either captured or killed? Now, thanks to you betraying not only me
– but also the Meldaron military – Lt. Deerinea has been taken
prisoner…and is being sent…to the Schinicin home world itself!
Here, she will die – under torture, within days. I know her – better
than anyone – and they can and will make her divulge anything
and everything – about the Meldaron forces…. Thanks to your betrayal
– we are all going to either die…or worse – spend
the rest of our lives…as Schinicin prison world occupants….”

    “What – ” Glider moaned. “We’re innocent! We
didn’t do anything to betray the Meldaron forces?”
    “Do not bother trying to convince me.” Whitetail spoke.
“Instead – save your energy for the court-martial…. Guard!”

    There was the click of the chamber
door lock and Whitetail walked from the chambers, where he paused – then
looked back at them.
    “I trusted you all – loved you – and this is
how you show my honesty and respect for what I’ve done? I just pray –
that somehow – you’re innocent of these charges…. If you’re
guilty and sentenced to death – then as a former friend – I personally
– will execute you myself. It will be quick, painless – and thankfully
– easier for us all….”

    With that, he walked from the chambers
– and the door locked behind him….

           
Full Sitting of the Meldaron High Command

    In laser-handcuffs, the three friends
were lead at gunpoint in to the main hall, which had been converted in to a
courtroom. Here, they stood – and waited.
“All rise – ” Snarled a Weasel Commander.
Silverfox, Mack and Glider watched – as the full High Command of the Meldaron
forces filed in, then took their allocated seats. There was a wide variety of
the different species of Meldaron, all of whom held some of the highest ranks
within the armed forces. There were admirals, generals, and to everyone’s
surprise – the king of Meldaron himself…. King Reyard was the last
to enter, but the first to take his throne of office, as head judge and Commander
in Chief of the Meldaron forces. After he had seated himself, the other assorted
military officers sat.
    “This court will now come to order – ” Spoke the king
calmly. “May Millar bless this court – and enable us to reach an honest
– and open judgement – without bias and personal prejudice. Is there
a defence for the accused?”
    “Sir – ” Spoke a young Pearldinean, as he rose. “I
have been appointed the defence for the accused.”
    “Very well – prosecutor – you may begin….”
Spoke the king.
    Sidling casually up to where the accused stood, the old Tashan
prosecutor spoke.  “Is it not true, that you three – stand before
the court – accused of very heinous crimes against the people, and the
military itself?”
    “Objection – ” Come the Pearldineans reply.

    “On what grounds defence?” Asked the king.
    “Sir, on the grounds of being – the question is irrelevant
to the case. Prosecution is badgering the accused.”
    “Objection noted. Prosecutor – please choose your words
a little more carefully.”

    With a sigh, the prosecutor pounced
once again.
    “Thank you – sir. Is it not true, that in a
raid against a Schinicin power station, that you three – “
    “Objection!”
    “Sustained.” Come the king’s response.
    “Forgive me – is it not true the accused were
the only ones to escape alive – and seemingly unharmed?”
    “Objection – “
    “Overruled. Prosecutor – state your point.”

    “Thank you sir – my point, is out of two dozen well
trained officers and troopers – these three – “
    “Objection!”
    “Sustained – prosecutor, you will address them as the
accused…not as these three….”

    “Sir – Okay,” Spoke the Prosecutor.
“Evidence was discovered of the alleged guilty party – having obtained
through unknown means – top secret information regarding the Meldaron
military. Also discovered, was a Schinicin communication device and Imperial
codes. As of yet, our cryptography and intelligence personnel have yet to crack
these codes and analyse them for what they may reveal….”
With that, he returned to his seat. After a few moments, the defences counsel
rose.
    “Your honour, respected members of the High Command –
permission to address the court?”
    “Permission granted.” Spoke the King.
    “It is alleged, that the defence has been – found to
possess top secret documentation, plans and battle plans for our strikes against
the Schinicin infrastructure and military divisions, that have taken this planet.
It is also alleged, that they have betrayed the Meldaron armed forces –
and alerted the Schinicin troopers to the raid on the power station at Foxville
– which led to the capture and execution of nearly the entire squad –
with only these three – “
    “Objection”
    “Sustained – “
    “Forgive me – the capture and execution of nearly the
entire squad – with only the accused – managing somehow, to escape
the massacre. I would like permission, for the alleged to take the stand, and
under oath – speak of their mission – and give their own accounts
for what happened….”
    “Counsel for the prosecution?”
    “I have no objections your honour.”

    “Make it so – the alleged may
take the stand. I want them to be separated and kept confined, until each has
– by themselves – given their evidence on this mission. Corporal
Shazri – take the stand. Lieutenant, take the others outside – and
keep them under guard.”
Quickly, Mack staggered to the stand, whilst Glider and Silverfox were led at
gunpoint out of the court….
    “Corporal Shazri – ” Spoke the king softly. “You realise
the penalties for lying to a military court?”
    “Yes sir – I do.”
    “You promise to speak only the truth, and nothing else but,
on pain of death by execution?”
    “Yes sir – “
Nodding, the King gave the floor to the prosecution…and the court trial
really took hold….

           
Full sitting of the Meldaron High Command – nine hours later….

    After a record amount of information,
accusations, counter-claims and evidence, the judges had retired to discuss
and think about what they had heard. Mack, Silverfox and Glider were kept separated
and held in the prison cells. When at last the court reconvened, they were brought
back in to the courtroom…here…to face the decision of the court.

    “Court is now in session – all rise!” Snarled the Weasel
Commander.
There was the shuffling of boots, as everyone rose, then the judges retook their
seats.
    “Be seated – court is now in session.” Spoke the king.
“After much deliberation – and extensive examination of the testimonies
of the accused, various tests and other examinations of the said accused –
we have reached a decision on this case….”
    “We shall now – hand down our decision….” Spoke
the King.
    “Corporal Mack Shazri – the court finds – not
guilty. He is acquitted of the crimes of treason, spying and covert operations
seeking to endanger the Meldaron armed forces.”

    Mack breathed a sigh of relief….

    “Corporal Glider – the court finds
– not guilty.”

    Glider visibly wilted.

    “Corporal Silverfox Relah Star –
the court finds – guilty – “

    Silverfox’s eyes widened in
horror, and her muzzle dropped open, as her knees buckled.

    “Corporal Silverfox – you are
guilty of the following list of charges, brought against you…. Guilty,
of disobeying a direct order from a superior officer. Guilty – of wilful
insubordination. Guilty – of loss or destruction of military equipment.
Guilty – of wilful betrayal of trust – namely in the deaths of dozens
of the Sessesh soldiers, during your raid on the Schinicin refinery complex,
and further – most seriously; accusations of treasonous activity and mention
of betrayal – by a superior officer….”
    “Sir – permission to speak?” Corporal Silverfox gasped.

    “Permission granted.” Spoke the King.
    “You honour, may I make noted – my objections to some
of these charges, as laid against me?”
    “Some?” Asked the King.
    “Yes sir – some. I am guilty – of disobeying
a superior officer. I admit that. I directly disobeyed Whitetail’s orders
to fall back…when instructed. Sir – I did such, knowing that should
I do as ordered – then he would have surely perished, as would have Lieutenant
Deerinea – who was critically wounded in the battle. Further, I am guilty
of the loss of my own personal military equipment – in the battle and
destruction of the refinery…. Further, I admit my own lack of training
and my own fear – during the battle in the refinery – that led to
the deaths of dozens of the Sessesh soldiers….”
    “I – see.” Spoke the King softly. “What of the treasonous
activities of mentioning the betrayal of a superior officer – namely –
Captain Uzuri?”

    “Sir – I still maintain those
charges – and I will swear by my statement. Captain Uzuri, with all due
respect, ordered me – to take point. I had received minimal training in
the Meldaron military forces, and I felt strongly, that I was not capable of
performing the duties assigned to me. When I asked to be relieved – I
was ordered to continue, with Captain Uzuri knowing full well – that I
was untrained – and unqualified to act in any covert operation….”

    “Major Blacktalon – is this true?” Growled the King.

    “You honour,” Replied Major Blacktalon respectfully. “I had
noticed – that Captain Uzuri – with all due respect accorded –
did seem to have some personal…problems …with Corporal
Silverfox. Analysis of the mission reports and pack mounted receivers –
do specifically state – that all is as Corporal Silverfox has spoken….”

    “So – Captain Uzuri wilfully ordered a recruit –
to take charge of the entire squad, realising that said recruit, was indeed
– unqualified – to perform these duties?”
    “Yes sir.”
    “What has happened to Captain Uzuri? – Where is she
Corporal Silverfox.”
    “Your honour – when the private set off the flame mine
– Corporal Glider forced myself, and Corporal Mack Shazri under the water….
Sir – we only know that when the flames had retreated – the squad
was either dead – or dying…. We admit – sir – that
we did not take all due care, as the Schinicin soldiers were alerted to our
presence – and come after us. We did not see – nor hear –
Captain Uzuri…immediately prior to the flame mine being triggered. At
last confirmed report – was that Captain Uzuri – was at the back
of the squad, covering our retreat from the Schinicin power station….”

    “Major Blacktalon – is this
standard patrol routine?” Asked the King, as he rested his maned chin on his
paw.
    “No – your honour. It is not standard military proceedurel….”

    “I – see….” Whispered the King. “Corporal Silverfox
– you are hereby acquitted of all but the most serious charges laid against
you. As for the charge of accusations of treasonous activity and mention of
betrayal – by a superior officer – you are found – guilty.
You are herby sentenced to fifteen years of hard labour, at the Meldaron military
prison, in Vallin….”
    “Sir – permission to speak!” Pleaded Silverfox.

    “Granted – ” Spoke the king.
    “Sir – with all due respect, the court has the transcripts
of all aspects of our mission, including our sworn statements – and the statement
of Major Blacktalon….”
    “Corporal – do not waste our time. Make your point….”

    “Sir – it seems – that I am – with all
due respect to you and the High Command – that I am being unfairly –
” Silverfox stammered.

    Slowly, the King rose and glared down
at Silverfox, who cringed, beneath his righteous gaze.
    “Unfairly? Unfairly?” He shrieked. “What know you
of military court proceedings?”
Silverfox rose to her full height, in an act of open defiance. Her eyes blazed
with her own self-righteous feelings. Surprised, the king blinked and the guards
immediately snapped their weapons up – covering her.
    “I will not!” Silverfox shrieked as she snatched the
Spear of Meldaron from her belt, then it sprang in to its full seven feet length,
it’s crystal tip blazing. “Will not be blamed – for someone else’s
incompetence! I was not responsible – for what happened, and I should
not – be blamed for Captain Uzuri’s betrayal!”
One of the guards panicked, then fired at Silverfox. With a move faster than
lightning, she dodged – and the blaster shot splintered the table behind
her. Crouching, she gripped the spear in both paws – then a blinding beam
of light erupted from its tip…. With a strangled scream, the guard crashed
backwards and slumped down the wall. Immediately, more soldiers boiled in to
the courtroom, alerted by security alarms. One knelt beside the stricken soldier
– then looked up and shook his head sadly.
    “He – he’s dead….” Whispered the soldier.

    “Guards! Arrest this Vixen!” Shrieked the King.
As they moved in, the double doors smashed open and Whitetail erupted in to
the chambers.
    “Wait!” He screamed, his voice echoing off the walls
and startling both the High Command and soldiers alike….
    “Whitetail – ” Snarled the King “You better have a
very good explanation for this…”
    “Your Highness – respected members of the High Command
– I have something – to add to this inquest….”
    “We’ve reached our decision Whitetail – ” Growled
an Admiral “It stands. This court is adjourned.”
    “No Sir!” Whitetail snarled, then fronted the bench.
“It is not adjourned!”
    “Whitetail – ” Spoke the King. “Do not drag yourself
in to this….”
    “Sire – with all due respect – you’ve got
rocks for brains!”

    Silence seized the court, as the King
sat down slowly, his eyes wide in disbelief.

    “I’ve – what ?”
He breathed.
Whitetail grabbed Silverfox by her uniform collar and dragged her before the
bench. Silverfox’s teeth chattered and her eyes were wide in terror.

    “Sire – do you know what this spear is?” Whitetail
snarled.
    “It’s a force-spear – ” Spoke the King.

    “Sire – have a good look…. This –
my highness – is the legendary Spear of Meldaron….”
    “Oh come on – ” Chuckled a General. “That’s fallacy
– it’s been lost for over five hundred years – “
    “Is it?” Whitetail shot back. “Do any of you – know
anything of the legends of the Spear of Meldaron?”
    “Get him out of here – ” Snarled an Admiral. “He’s
making a mockery out of this court.”
    “With due respect Admiral – ” Spoke the King thoughtfully.
“Whitetail – must be given the accordance to speak….”
Sullenly, the sceptical Admiral retook his seat, and listened.
    “Thank you – your majesty.” Spoke Whitetail. “It is
true – the legends that surrounded the Spear of Meldaron – have
abounded for centuries. No one truly believed that this powerful artefact actually
existed…. Now, I – and this vixen who stands beside me –
were present when Millar herself – presented the Spear of Meldaron –
to Corporal Silverfox.”

    Faint and mocking laughter come from
some of the High Command – and the contingent of soldiers.

    “If – ” Grated the King. “What
you say is true – then how can we verify it?”
    “Sire – you of all people – would know of the
true legends of the Spear…would you not?” Whitetail asked.
    “Of course – ” Nodded the King.
    “Sir – then you – of all people – must
acknowledge, that this is the real Spear….”
    “Enough of this mockery – ” Snarled the Admiral. “I’ve
heard enough.”
    “Admiral – if you please – shoot at Corporal
Silverfox….” Whitetail spoke.

    With a sigh, the Admiral rose and
a soldier handed him his sidearm. Taking careful aim, the Admiral squeezed –
and fired. A bright emerald green field of force erupted in to existence around
Silverfox, deflecting the blaster shot harmlessly in to the ceiling. Even Silverfox
was stunned by this display.
    “This proves nothing – a personal force shield device….”

    “Your majesty – may I have Corporal Silverfox searched
for electronic shielding devices?”
Nodding, the king gestured.  Quickly, Silverfox was frisked vigorously,
much to her evident displeasure. Even an electronic scanner was run all over
her – with negative results.
    “I’m still not convinced – ” Snarled the Admiral.
“I want proof – not some puppy-hood hocus pocus….”
    “Sire?” Asked Whitetail.
Intrigued, the King nodded softly.
    “My esteemed officers, and his Excellency…. I have
but one last test – if you will permit me?” Whitetail asked.
    “Proceed.” Spoke the King.
    “My lord – ” Whitetail nodded. “As legend has foretold
– the Spear of Meldaron can only be wielded by the chosen one….
Its powers are many and varied – as we’ve only just now –
seen it’s lesser talents…. One of it’s most kept secrets
– is the ability to find those amongst it’s immediate vicinity –
who are not what they seem….”

    Blinking, the sceptical Admiral loosened
his collar, as if he was growing uncomfortable….
    “Corporal Silverfox – command the spear – to
reveal the identities of those present….”
Silverfox sent a mental command to the spear – and it trembled in her
hand. Slowly, it pointed at the king – and its white crystal tip –
emitted a low powered beam. This beam enfolded the king – and turned red….
Next, the General who was sitting beside the King…with similar results.
Further and further down the thirteen members of the High Command it moved,
and the Admiral became more and more restless….
    “This – is ludicrous.” Snarled the Admiral. “It doesn’t
prove anything!”
    “To the contrary – Admiral ….” Whitetail
whispered menacingly. “What it is doing – is detecting the heat signature
– as given off – by all warm blooded creatures….”

    Finally, the spear turned its beam
on the Admiral…. After a few seconds – the beam turned green….
With a shriek of reptilian rage, the Admirals skin bubbled and ran like wax,
as a reptilian form materialised. Instantly, the soldiers snapped their weapons
up – but the Spear of Meldaron pulsed angrily – then a blinding
white light shot out and the reptilian officer collapsed to the floor….

    “Millar’s name!” Gasped the King. “He was a –
“
    “Sire – he was a Sur-Tak…a shape-changer….
A precious and rare Schinicin…. They are used, for infiltrating enemy
command structures. Once they have analysed and found their potential victim,
they use all they know to get to know and mimic the victim…. Once the
routine, pattern – call it what you will – is learned…the
victim is killed, and the Sur-Tak takes its place. They are virtually impossible
to detect….”
    “How did you know – “
    Whitetail sighed sadly. “I had – my suspicions –
and I am grateful – they were not proven false.”
    “Whitetail – you were right about my brains….
By Millar’s name – ” Whispered the King in shock. “How long – “

    “Sire – it is impossible – to say how long that
Admiral Naskir was being impersonated…. I wish I had a way of telling
you….”
    “Corporal Silverfox – ” Spoke the King.
    “Sir?” Asked Silverfox fearfully.
    “I hereby – drop any and all sentences – against
you. Whitetail – has proven your true innocence in all this. Captain!”

    “Sir!” Come an Alchemian Captains reply.
    “Take this – thing – to the cells. Make
sure it is secured. Our interrogation officers will be most interested
in this creature….”
    “Yes sir.” Spoke the captain. “At once sir.”
    “Further – order an immediate and thorough search of
Admiral Naskir – and Captain Uzuri’s quarters…. Further –
keep this well covered up Captain. It never happened.”
    “Yes sir.”

    Two soldiers quickly bound and dragged
the unconscious Schinicin away. Shuddering with revulsion, the King spoke again.

    “Corporal Silverfox – “
    “Sir?” Silverfox asked.
    “Could you – would you – be willing –
to partake in an examination – of others? I wish to see just how many
– may have been infiltrated – or may…be spies working
for the Schinicin.”
    “Sir – I’d be – honoured…but I must
– respectfully decline sir.”
    “Why?” Asked the King.
    “Sir – with all due respect to you…a very good
friend – Lt. Deerinea – has been taken prisoner…and is being
taken to the Schinicin home world…. Sir – I respectfully ask permission,
to launch a rescue mission…to try and save her.”
    “Corporal – “
    “Sir – please…. Lt. Deerinea – more than
once – risked her own life…to rescue my friends, and me. It is
the least – we could do for her…in return.”
    “Whitetail – is this true ?”

    Sadly – Whitetail hung his head.

    “Yes – your majesty. Lt. Deerinea was captured in the
mission to destroy the Schinicin power station…and our operatives –
have reported that they seen her being loaded in to a Schinicin shuttle…whose
course was set for the Schinicin home world. Sir – “
    “Do it Whitetail…. Oh – another thing….”

    “Sir?” Whitetail asked.
    “Welcome back – Commander Whitetail.” Spoke
the King.
    “Yes sir – thank you sir. Permission to see to the
mission?”
    “Millar be with you – make it so.” Spoke the King.

    “Corporals Silverfox, Glider and Mack – with me!” Snapped
Whitetail.
Immediately, the guards unlocked the restraints and Glider, Silverfox and Mack
ran from the chambers, following Whitetail….

           
On-board the Schinicin Flagship

    A soft beep alerted the Grand Admiral.
Idly, he reached out and touched the communication button.
    “Yes Admiral?” Asked the Grand Admiral.
    “Sire – sensors are detecting a Schinicin shuttle launching
from Camer. It’s transponder and markings match – just awaiting
the transmission of the clearance codes….”
    With a sigh – the Grand Admiral come fully awake and
spoke in to the comlink.  “I’m on my way Admiral – hold them
until I arrive.”
    “Yes sir.”
    After a few minutes, the Grand Admiral strode on to the bridge
of his flagship.
    “Grand Admiral on deck!” Yelled an officer.
    “Report on Camer shuttle – ” Snapped the Grand Admiral.

    “Sir – shuttle claims to have a priority class A-15-Z81
order…from….” Gasped the newly advanced Admiral.
    “Admiral?”
    “It’s just come through sir!” Whispered the stunned
Admiral. “It’s a direct communication – from the Emperor himself!”

    “Authenticate this order… now!” Shrieked the
Grand Admiral.

    Hurriedly, the order was checked –
then rechecked against the very latest Imperial codes and even a hyperspeed
transmission link back to the Schinicin home world verified the order. It was
indeed – signed and authorised by the Emperor himself.
    “Sir – it’s authenticated….” Stammered
the Admiral.
Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis exhaled softly, fear beginning to grow within
him.
    “Admiral – assign a flight of our fighters to this
shuttle….” Hissed the Grand Admiral. “Give it emergency clearance….”

    “Yes sir – ” Spoke the Admiral, as he relayed the order
to the flight crews and communications technicians.
Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis watched the sensors, as the shuttle flew past
the flagship – then the fighter escort rendezvoused with it – and
the five ships shimmered – then leapt in to star drive….

    “Sire – ” Spoke the Admiral. “A holo-transmission from
Camer sir….”
    “I’ll take it in my personal quarters – ” Spoke
the Grand Admiral.
    “Aye sir….” Spoke the younger reptilian officer.

Sith Hirr Draconis turned and made his way off the bridge, leaving the worried
younger Admiral to carry on with his assigned orders.
    “Grand Admiral off the bridge….” Yelled the Officer.

    In his dark chambers, then Grand Admiral
lay his great bulk down, and then he pressed the button and received the holo-transmission….
A young, black-haired female vixen materialised before the Grand Admiral.

    “Ah – operative Uzuri…an unexpected pleasure….”
Smiled the Grand Admiral.
    Slowly, the holographic Uzuri bowed to the Grand Admiral.  
“Sire – I’ve got bad news…. Three Meldaron’s escaped
the trap we laid for them in the power station – but they were spotted
jumping to their deaths….”
    “Can you confirm that they died?” Asked Sith Hirr Draconis.

    “Sire – it was quite…a large fall…. I
do not see how anyone could have survived that fall….” Uzuri replied
calmly.
    “Uzuri – order an immediate and thorough exploration
of where they fell…. I want proof – that they were killed….
If they still live – then there is a high chance that….”

    “Sire – before we set out on this mission – I
had our infiltration officer plant incriminatory evidence in these young Meldaron’s
quarters…. Should they be discovered to have survived – then they
will front the Meldaron High Command…and be summarily shot as being spies….
I’ve got all the bases – as they say – covered….”

    “Just – ensure that you’re right Uzuri….
I’ve already had enough people displease me of late – and I do not
want any more…unexpected news….” Hissed the Grand Admiral venomously.
“Now – what of this shuttle and order from the Emperor himself?”

    “Sir – ” Uzuri spoke. “His Imperial Majesty –
wanted someone of the Meldaron High Command…to be taken prisoner. Sadly,
this proved to be impossible – but we did managed to capture a
lieutenant of the – “

    “A – “
    “Sir – this lieutenant – is one of those –
who were directly responsible – for the destruction and disruption of
many Schinicin plans…. Her name is Lieutenant Deerinea, and she
is a field operative – for the Meldaron military’s covert operations
division…. I do not doubt – that the Schinicin Emperor will find
out – much – about the Meldaron forces…. His Imperial Majesty’s
personal interrogation officers – are well trained…and quite efficient.
I guarantee you, that this lieutenant will break – and within the
week – you will have all the information to crush the Meldaron resistance…with
one firm and decisive strike….” Uzuri smiled cruelly.
    “Excellent Uzuri – your dedication and diligence –
will be well rewarded. Now, do all you can, to find me the bodies of those escaped
Meldaron’s…or if they are alive – then do what-ever
it takes – to try and find out more about them…. I want everything
there is to know about them Captain….”
    “Of course – sire.” Uzuri smiled – then her holographic
image broke apart in to sparkling ions – which faded.
    “Yes indeed – ” Spoke the Grand Admiral to himself.
“Yes – my traitorous young vixen…. Once you are no longer of any
use to me – or the Empire – you will be executed….”

           
Meldaron Base Star-fighter Hangar.

    A small company of Meldaron soldiers
and flight-crew were gathered on the decking of the star-fighter hangar. A large
podium had been set up, and Commander Drakmarian slowly took the stage….

    “My friends – my people….” Commander Drakmarian’s
tired voice called. “Hear me! Today, we begin the fight back – against
the Schinicin forces who have blockaded our world…. Today, we launch
– the counter-strike!”
A few scattered cheers rang out throughout the hangar.
    “Some of our field operatives – have managed to capture
four Schinicin star-fighters. I ask, if there is anyone amongst you, with star-ship
piloting experience, to come and see me…preferably with military experience,
but any flight experience would be appreciative.”
    “How can we be expected to fly their fighter craft?” Spoke
a young Pearldinean.
    “Our technical squad is modifying the neuro-net helmets the
Schinicin use to pilot their vehicles. It is hoped, that the Meldaron pilots
will have a 95 percent chance, to successfully control the fighters.” Commander
Drakmarian spoke.
    “Sir – what of the Schinicin naval fleet? They’ll
detect us and cut us from the sky!”

    Commander Drakmarian spoke. “This
mission consists of two parts…. Using the stolen Schinicin shuttle as
a decoy – our Meldaron fighters will shoot at it as it runs for safety
to the Schinicin naval fleet – then just as the capital class vessels
launch their own fighters – our star-fighters will break off immediately.
I repeat – once you detect Schinicin fighters – break off the mock
attack on the shuttle…. Do whatever you must, to escape and evade the
Schinicin fighter craft. Our intelligence operatives have captured the latest
Schinicin naval fleet codes…. Using these codes, the small fighter escort
– leading the rescue shuttle – will be able to bypass the Schinicin
forces. Once they are safely away, then we can only wait and pray – awaiting
their success…or failure. If they succeed, then we may instigate phase
two, of our planned fight-back. Until we hear either way – from our rescue
team – then operation Counter-Strike will occur in exactly two weeks time….”

    “Sir – won’t the Schinicin naval fleet notice
that their fighter escort of a shuttle is deviating from any set flight path?”
Another Meldaron asked.
    “A good question…. Yes – but if all goes well
– the stolen fighters and shuttle – will be well past the Schinicin
blockade – and make their jump in to star-drive. Once they’ve done
this, and the Schinicin have scrambled their star-fighters to intercept our
own star-fighters… then you are to immediately retreat, and lead
them in all directions…. If you can escape, then return here to the hangar.
If not – then by Millar’s name – take a few of those reptilian bastards
with you!”

    The assembled Meldaron pilots to this
welcome idea of attack uttered a loud cheer….

    Commander Whitetail took the podium,
then addressed the massed crew and pilots.
    “Our communications Tech’s have intercepted the latest Schinicin
movements in this continent. Our Intelligence and cryptography operatives are
at this moment, decoding this information. We’ve also intercepted Schinicin
codes, which it is hoped, will enable us to slip past their orbiting Star-Crushers.
I can’t hide the truth from you all…. This mission will be dangerous.
We have little in the way of intelligence on the Schinicin forces, and already,
their presence is being felt and Meldaron’s are being rounded up and sent
to re-education camps.”
    “Commander – how will the flight crews of the fighters
and shuttle…when they get to the Schinicin home-world – will they
get past the Schinicin? How will they survive?”
    “An excellent question – for which – I have an
answer. Our Tech’s have managed to design a Schinicin looking environmental
suit, that will turn the chlorine rich atmosphere of the Schinicin world –
in to oxygen – that our rescue squad will be able to breathe….
Of course, they will have to keep low, as it would seem strange, should they
be seen walking the main streets…wearing environmental suits. Now, may
Millar watch over you all, and be with you. To your stations….”

Swiftly the Meldaron’s scattered, making their preparations and checking
their orders for deployment. Commander Whitetail led Silverfox, Glider and Mack
aside.
    “Any of you three had any military piloting experience?”
He asked.
Silverfox looked at Glider, who hesitantly nodded.
    “I’m not militarily trained – but I’ve
had extensive flight experience….” Glider spoke.
    “Close enough – come on…we’ll get you
familiarised with the fighter….”
    “What about us two?” Silverfox asked.
    “Well – Glider here…could use a co-pilot in
the fighter….”
    “I’ll do it – ” Silverfox spoke. “I’ve
had some minor experience through my life….”
    “What about me?” Mack whimpered.
    “Mack,” Whitetail told the young Tashan. “I’m going
to have my paws full with the shuttle… You think you could help me with
it?”
    “I….” Mack began.
    “Mack, it’s not an order. I could order you
to do it – but please….” Whitetail asked.
    Mack looked at Silverfox and Glider, then nodded sadly. “I’ll
do it.”

    Whitetail thanked him curtly, then
led Silverfox and Glider to their waiting fighter craft. Silverfox was shocked
to see the fighter, as it was capable of both planet-side flight capability
as well as fighting in deep space. In the distance, could be seen the Schinicin
shuttle, the technicians swarming over her, modifying the flight controls and
disposing of the chlorine gas life support systems. Silverfox and Mack were
ordered in to their flight suits and then in to the twin seater fighter. Here,
the Tech’s adjusted the straps and showed them the controls for the fighter.
Glider hesitantly took the neuro-helmet and slipped it on to his head. Once
he had tightened the chinstrap, he switched on the fighters main controls…then
felt as if his head had exploded.

    Agonising waves of bone destroying
pain ripped through him, making him buck and writhe mercilessly, as the on-board
flight systems overwhelmed the non-Schinicin Glider. As swiftly as they could,
the Tech’s’ cut power to the fighter, then they somehow managed
to get the neuro-helmet off him. Glider’s face was deathly pale, and convulsions
tore through him as his system reacted to the nervous system overload.

    “Damn it all….” Whitetail snarled from down below.
“I thought you said this thing was safe!”
    “We did test it….” Come a stunned Tech’s’
reply. “We do not know what happened….”
    “Medic! Medic to flight deck!” Someone yelled.
A Lapine medic came running, and three Meldaron’s managed to drag Glider
from the fighter.
    “Is he going too….” Silverfox wept.
    “He’s in a bad way – ” Spoke the medic. “Sub-dural
nervous system damage to the primary and secondary motor nerves….”

    “Will he live?” Silverfox snapped, her anger reaching
boiling point.
    “He might…that is all that I can say. I’ll need
to keep him under sedation, and run further testing on him….”

    “Oh just terrific….” Whitetail snarled in anger. ”
Now what?”

    Glider was tranquillised and laid
out on a portable stretcher, waiting to be taken to sickbay.
    “Whitetail – can you fly one of these things?”
Silverfox asked.
    “I could – but my nervous system won’t interface
with it properly…. I would probably pilot us right in to a mountain or
something….”
    “Let me try it – ” Silverfox began. “What have we got
to lose.”
Whitetail stared up at her, then shuddered.
    “Listen to me!” Spoke the medic. “If this doesn’t work
– then there is a very high chance the on-board systems will totally
overload your nervous system…and kill you!”
    “It is a chance I have to take….” Silverfox spoke,
then clambered in to the pilots seat.
    “Silverfox – ” Whitetail asked. “You do not have
to do this…. Do not risk all for what may be a worthless cause!”

    “You’re a military person…. You and I both
know the risks involved in this…but we likewise both know…the
very real threat that is endangering us all.”
Whitetail fell silent, then gazed up at her….
    “You know I speak the truth.” Silverfox spoke.
    “Aye lassie – that you do – go on….” Commander Whitetail
replied, bowing to her wishes in this regard.

    With the medical team immediately
at hand – Silverfox picked up the neuro-helm…and placed it on her
head. Her paw shaking – Silverfox reached out – and touched the
contact sensor on the console before her…. Silverfox’s body contorted
in agony – and Whitetail leapt to save her, but Silverfox gritted her
teeth and waved him away – her breath panting heavily….

    “Silver – ” Mack whimpered.
    “I – ” Silverfox gasped. “I’m alright….”

Drawing choking breaths, Silverfox reigned in the agonising waves of pain and
she slowly brought herself back under control…. Slowly – she reached
out and took the stick in her paws…. Nausea tore it’s spectral
claws through her, as the ship tried to assert it’s hold over the young
Meldaron vixen – but Silverfox summoned all her mental defences…and
to everyone’s surprise and quick pleasure – the ship relent. It
come to full life, it’s three engines cycling rapidly up in to readiness.
Excited cheers rang out through the hangar, and Whitetail looked up at Silverfox’s
sweat matted face.
    “Corporal – ” Whitetail began. “Silverfox –
“
Slowly, Silverfox looked down at him.
    “Are you certain you’re alright?” Asked Whitetail.

    “I’m – a little nauseous…but I’ll
be fine…. Come on Commander – let’s go rescue Deerinea….”

    Other pilots, under Silverfox’s
instructions – quickly learned how to master their own Schinicin fighters….
Flight technicians gave the fighters a quick check-over, before they were cleared
for flight….
    “Silverfox – I do not need to tell you – ” Commander
Whitetail began.
Silverfox looked down then smiled weakly.   “Commander – May
Millar watch over you….” Silverfox whispered, then sealed the cockpit.

    “With you – as well….” Whitetail sighed. “Corporal
Shazri!”
    “Sir?” Mack answered.
    “Is the flight crew aboard the shuttle?”
    “Yes sir – we’re ready for departure….”
Mack replied.
Whitetail sighed, then retrieved his own flight-suit and helmet.
    “Come on Commander – ” Mack spoke. “Let’s take
the battle to the Schinicin….”

    Whitetail watched the Schinicin and
Meldaron fighters launch, then he heard his own Schinicin shuttle warming its
engines up to launch speed. Quickly, he ran up aboard the shuttle – and
slapped the hatchway closed….
    “Clear – take off when-ever you’re ready pilot!”
Whitetail spoke.
    “Aye sir – we’re on our way….”

With an explosive acceleration, the Schinicin shuttle launched its way in to
the dark skies of Meldaron. Moments after they had left, a medic in the infirmary
gasped – her paws flying to her muzzle as she dropped the flask she had
held. In horror, the medical officer stared at the results of Silverfox’s
blood test, and then she slapped the comlink sensor.
    “Wait!” Shrieked the medic. “Have Corporal Silverfox stand
down from this mission! Get her out of there!”
    “What in – why?” Come the surprised voice of
Major Blacktalon.
    “Why?” Shrieked the Medic. “Why ? Corporal Silverfox
– her – “
There was a loud crackle of interference through the comlink, then Major Blacktalon’s
voice could be faintly heard – over the roar of the launching fighters.

    “Say again – repeat – say again…was not…clear.”

    “Major!” Shrieked the Medic. “Call Corporal Silverfox back!
Her very life is in danger!”
    “What?” Come the crackling voice through the comlink.

    “Corporal Silverfox – her life…is in danger!
You don’t understand! She is with child!”
    “Oh – sweet Millar….” Major Blacktalon swore.
“Quick – patch me through….”
    “Sir – ” Come a faint voice. “We can not do that –
the fighters – have launched!”
    “Medic – are you… certain?” Major Blacktalon
gasped in horror.
    “I am – sir.” Come the stunned Medic’s voice.
“I just ran some tests, as a precaution – and I found that….”

    “How – how far?”
    “Sir – Corporal Silverfox – I can’t tell
sir….” Spoke the Medic. “Without her being here – and being able
to run thorough testing…I can’t tell….”
    “Keep me posted – but there is nothing that we can
do – Corporal Silverfox…has already launched her fighter…and
we’ve no way of contacting them now….”
    “Sir – you do not understand! If she goes through the
Stargate….”

    Silence filled the comlink channel,
as the Major turned over what the Medical officer had just said….

    “It will – ” He breathed faintly.
    “Sir – every time we engage the star-drives…and
pass through those Stargates – it adds three months to our lives!”

    “Oh for the love of – ” Spoke the Major….

    “Exactly – you see the problem…. If we don’t
get Corporal Silverfox back here…we could lose her….”

    There was silence on the comlink system
– Major Blacktalon had severed the link….

           
Aboard the Schinicin Flagship

    “Grand Admiral on deck!” Shrieked
the officer.
Swiftly, the young Admiral twisted about and saluted the great dragon, which
strode purposefully on to the bridge.
    “Report – ” Snapped the Grand Admiral.
    “Sir – sensors are detecting strange activity on the
planets surface….”
    “Admiral – Schinicin shuttle craft and fighter escort
closing at high speed! A – a transmission is coming through!”
    “On speakers.” Snapped the Admiral.
    “This is – ” Spoke a frightened voice, then the voice
broke in to static and interference. “Shuttle –”
Crackling and hissing filled the bridge of the Flagship.
    “Someone strengthen and filter that transmission!” Shrieked
the Grand Admiral.
    “Drasnarian – we’re – “
    “Sir!” Squealed a startled sensor operator. “Meldaron star-fighters
sir! Closing on the shuttle!”
    “Raise shields! Scramble our fighters!” Snarled the Grand
Admiral. “NOW!”

    Immediately, the order was sent out
– and within seconds – the Schinicin fighters streamed from the
Schinicin flagship – and other naval vessels.”
    “Shuttle Drasnarian – can you respond?” Spoke the Admiral.
“What is going on?”
    “Important – “
    “Shuttle craft!” Growled the Grand Admiral. “Continue on
course – Schinicin fighters have been scrambled to your aid….”

    “We’ve lost – “
    “Shuttle Drasnarian!”
    “Fighter – escort…losing shield integrity….
Our weapon systems – ” Come the voice from the besieged shuttle craft.

    “Gunners! Track and fire on pursuing Meldaron Star-fighters!”
Barked the Grand Admiral. “Attention Schinicin star-fighters…engage at
will. Repeat – engage at will!”

    They watched, as one of the Schinicin
star-fighters exploded, as a Meldaron star-fighter scored a kill….

    “Star-fighters! Increase speeds and engage! Repeat –
increase speed and engage enemy star-fighters!” Snarled the Grand Admiral.

    “Where – Shuttle Drasnarian! You are ordered to land!
Repeat – shuttle Drasnarian!”
With a surge of speed, the shuttle and it’s fighter escort increased their
drive power – and streaked away from the flagship.
    “Shuttle Drasnarian!” Shrieked the Grand Admiral.

With a shimmer – the shuttle – and it’s three remaining fighters
flicked in to star-drive…and vanished!

    “Sir – Meldaron Star-fighters
are breaking off and fleeing…permission requested to pursue?”

    “Granted – let’s run these bastards to ground….
All fighters – pursue and destroy the Meldaron Star-fighters. Also –
track any and all known destinations for that shuttle – and it’s
fighter escort….”
    “Sir – if they’ve gone in to star-drive….”

    “Admiral – I do not want excuses…I want them
traced – and captured…. Carry out your orders….”

    “Yes – sir….” Whispered the Admiral. “I want
that shuttle’s trajectory plotted….”

           
Stolen Schinicin Shuttle and Fighter Escort

    “Commander – Stargate coming
up….” Spoke the shuttle pilot.
Commander Whitetail come up in to the cramped shuttle cockpit, then he gazed
out at the swirling maelstrom that lay distantly before the shuttles’
nose…. No matter how many times he had travelled through these vortices
– they still scared the fur off of him…. No one had ever
been able to explain how these – Stargate – worked…or
how they formed, but when the Meldaron’s had stumbled upon them purely
by accident – they had revolutionised spaceflight and travel between the
systems of the galaxy. When a ship passed through them – there was a brief
disorientation – then the star-field turned in to streaks of blinding
light…. In a matter of minutes, the ship was hundreds of light-years
away from where it had started…. Of course, travel through a Stargate
had its drawbacks – in that – it aged any organic living creature
– three months, per trip through the gateway…. Using powerful computers
to plot the trip through the Stargate – the ships of this galaxy found
these naturally occurring Stargate – to be of incredible potential –
and use.

    Using them allowed the ships of numerous
worlds to literally travel from one end of the galaxy – to another –
within months…instead of decades, as would have been the case before….
Galaxy wide travel became cheaper and more popular, and as the Stargate was
better understood, ships bearing goods for trade began plying the space-routes
between systems. Only one drawback comes with a Stargate – in those –
invasion fleets like the one that even now – entrenched itself around
Meldaron, were a very real threat….
    “Captain – open a channel to the Schinicin fighters
escorting us….” Whitetail spoke.
    “Channel open sir.” Replied the pilot.
    “Attention all – this is mission commander Whitetail
– we’re five minutes out from the Stargate…. I want everyone
to stay nice and close – because when we come out – we’re
expecting to appear on the edge of the Schinicin system…. I must warn
you all – that the Schinicin system has a myriad of dangers…. There
are massive asteroid fields just after the Stargate – and more asteroid
fields further in to the system…. Many of these asteroid fields are mined
with space mines – so be exceptionally careful. Also, the sixth planet
in the Schinicin system is a massive gas giant – with an incredible gravitational
pull. I would strongly advise – keeping well out of its reach. Lastly
– for those who do not know – the Stargate – will age you
three months, once you’ve passed through it. I do not know why –
or even how this happens…but just be aware…. Alright –
here we go!”
With shimmering ripples – the shuttle – and its fighter escort vanished
in to the swirling maelstrom that was the Stargate….

    Four days later, they emerged from
the other Stargate – on the edge of the Schinicin system…and immediately,
Silverfox’s star-fighter careened out of control!
    “Corporal Silverfox!” Whitetail shrieked. “Get that ship
under control!”
Silverfox’s agonising shrieks tore from the speakers, as her star-fighter
rolled and bucked wildly.
    “Corporal! That’s an order! Get control of yourself!”

    “I – the pain!” Silverfox screamed in agony.
“I – can’t – control….”
Silverfox’s fighter veered wildly across the nose of the shuttle –
and if it had not of been for the lightning reflexes of the shuttle pilot, there
would have been a collision. Two remaining fighters tried to swerve away from
her out of control fighter – and they collided and exploded, instantly
killing the pilots on-board the stolen star-fighters….
    “Corporal Silverfox!” Commander Whitetail shrieked. “Cut
power! Repeat! Cut your engines!”
Somehow, Silverfox managed to cut the power to her star-fighters engines –
and it levelled itself out and glided calmly through space…. Silverfox’s
heartbreaking sobs come from the ship-ship communication systems.
    “Corporal – are you – alright?” Commander Whitetail
asked, concern tinging his voice.
    “I – oh Millar forgive me….” Silverfox panted,
her voice choked with her tears.
    “Corporal – what in hell happened?”
    “I – come through the Stargate…and the pain…it
was like my entrails were being torn out – with red hot hooks!”

    “Sensory overload? Backlash from the fighter?” Whitetail
asked.
    “No – ” Silverfox gasped. “I…I couldn’t
breathe – my intestines were all twisted and I could not – control
myself….”

    Whitetail muffled the comlink system,
then summoned the mission medic.
    “Stargate trauma?” Whitetail asked the medical officer.

    “No – ” Spoke the young female Coyote. “It doesn’t
sound like it…can I speak to her?”
    “Silverfox – I am going to get the mission medic to
talk to you…okay?” Whitetail asked.
Silverfox’s heavy panting and faint acknowledgment come back over the
comlink.
    “Corporal Silverfox – I am Doctor Chanar…. I
am the mission medical officer on-board the shuttle. I want – you to tell
me exactly what happened – and how you felt the second you came
through the Stargate…and how you feel now.”
Gliding through space – Silverfox told Dr. Chanar exactly what had happened,
both immediately after their exit from the Stargate – and what she felt
now…. Dr. Chanar listened intently, then sighed softly.
    “Corporal – are you capable – of continuing this
mission? If you do not think you are – then you should immediately
return through the Stargate…and contact the Meldaron base….”

    “I – I am a little better…. There was a lot
of pain – and extensive nausea, that tore in to me…but now….”

    “Corporal – were you checked out – before
this mission?”
    “Yes….” Silverfox panted, then she sniffled. “I was
checked thoroughly – and given a clean passing….”
    “Are you physically – capable of continuing this mission?”

    “Yes – we’ve come this far – we can’t
– back out now….” Silverfox whispered, her voice still partially
pain-riddled.

    Kicking her ion-drives back in, Silverfox
plotted a course for the Schinicin home world. Angrily, the doctor severed the
comlink and looked at Whitetail.
    “I do not – have any ideas Commander. All I do know
– is that vixen – is not well enough to continue with this
mission…. However – since we’ve lost those other two pilots…
we do not have any choice….” Growled Dr. Chanar.
    “Thank you Doctor – I shall personally keep a very
close eye on her….” Whitetail spoke.
    “Course plotted sir – awaiting your orders….”
Spoke the shuttle pilot.
Whitetail looked out through the shuttle windows – at the massive asteroid
field that lay before them….
    “Captain – let’s go,” Whitetail sighed softly.
“As the Schinicin will know – that we’ve arrived soon enough….”

    “Aye sir – engaging ion-drives…now.”

Whitetail returned to his seat, then glanced at the worried looking Mack. Mack
whimpered softly, and Whitetail sighed again – then nodded.
    “Corporal – I don’t blame you…for being
afraid. Contrary to it showing – this mission – scares the fur off
of me….”

           
Schinicin Military Outpost on Skar-darnath III

    “Sir – ” Spoke a young reptilian
officer.
    “What is it?” Asked the commanding officer.
    “Sir – our outer system sensors – near the Stargate
– have detected…three – no four ships…that
have just exited the – wait a minute…. There’s been a collision!
One of the ships has – two have been destroyed!”
    “What’s their identities?” Snarled the officer in charge.

    “Sir – their Schinicin…star-fighter and shuttle….
Both appear to be damaged sir….”
    “Scramble an interceptor craft to the outer system…intensify
scanner power…. I do not want anything to slip through our defences….
Inform the main base – of….”
    “Sir?”
    “Inform the Uruk-Zartath…. Tell him, we’ve got
– company coming….”
    “Sir – you want me to inform the Palace – the
Imperial messenger?”
    “You have your orders…see to them.”
    “Aye – sire….” Spoke the young reptilian officer
softly.

    Slowly, the outpost commander watched
the faint sensor signatures on his tracking station monitors…. What disturbed
him the most – and alerted his danger alarms – was the way the shuttle
and star-fighter were picking their way through the outer asteroid field….

    “It’s – probably nothing…their ships are
damaged…that’s all….” Spoke the Commander.
    “Sir?” Asked the sensor operator.
    “Nothing – I was just – thinking out loud…continue
with the transmission.”
On the sensor screens, the Schinicin shuttle and star-fighter slowly…imperceptibly,
drew ever closer…and closer….