Freedom Saga 2: Freedom's Bell

by Marcus Johnson

  Brian paced around the bridge before looking at Droid A.

  “Send a hail to the colonies,” he ordered.

  “Of course sir,” the robotic birdman said. “Is there anyone in particular you’d like to contact?”

  “Kiel Redar,” Brian said.

  Droid sent the hail before looking up. “It appears he’s busy for the moment. But he will be able to speak with us in a few minutes.”

  “Thanks,” Brian said as he stared at the wreckage outside before turning to the others. “How’s she holding up?”

  “Other than some shield drainage she’s fine,” Jesela responded.

  “A number of our mobile suits took damage, but none of it was major,” Grigon reported.

  Myden stared at his console. “I really need to freshen up on my English.”

  “You can turn it to whatever language you prefer,” Brian said.

  “I’m sure you don’t have my native language in the computer,” Myden said before switching the language settings to Kalaidian.

  Veda appeared on the monitor with Shiken Ka next to her.

  “I’m sorry to say this Brian, but nothing’s getting through,” she said.

  “Destroying a hundred of their ships doesn’t bother them a bit,” Shiken added.

  Brian let out a sigh of frustration. “One would assume a people devoted to science would be more open to change.”

  “Captain, Kiel Redar is returning out hail,” Droid A reported.

  “Very well,” Brian said. “Veda, pipe our conversation to the other ships.”

  “The system’s ready,” she said.

  The leader of the colonies appeared on the screen from his meeting room. Everyone noticed the dark bags under Kiel’s eyes.

  “Greetings Brian Peterson,” Kiel signed with his tentacles. “I’m sorry we needed your assistance again.”

  Brian activated the holographic systems on his exoskeleton and created a number of tentacles from his arms. He used his fingers to manipulate the illusory limbs to emulate Reiki sign language.

  “It’s alright Kiel,” Brian signed. “I expected to come back and solve the problem.”

  “The Central Government won’t answer any of our messages,” Kiel signed. “If you hadn’t shown up when you did we’d probably be dead.”

  “That’s what Heaven’s Light was created to prevent,” Brian signed. “Other than protection is there anything else we can do for you and your people?”

  “If possible we’d like some food aid,” Kiel signed. “We have plenty of water, but because of the blockade we haven’t been able to get adequate amounts food.”

  “I’ll relay the request to Veda,” Brian signed.

  “If that’s all I’d like to rest now,” Kiel signed. “As you can see I haven’t slept much lately.”

  “You’re welcome to rest,” Brian signed.

  “Thank you,” the Reiki leader signed before ending transmission.

  Brian deactivated the holographic system.

  “I’m surprised you took to their language so easily,” Grigon said. “Even with holographic systems most find it difficult to learn their language.”

  “It’s just something I picked up,” Brian said. “Let’s honor their request for aid and send some supplies down to them.”

  * * *

  Seles and Mira landed their mobile suits in the launching bay. After all their systems were turned off the two disembarked and took a moment to look at the giant robots.

  “Why did Grigon create these?” Mira asked.

  “From what I know it’s part of the Teacher’s plan,” Seles said. “But I get the feeling it’s for another reason.”

  “Perhaps it’s for revenge?” Mira asked.

  “He said her name was Rikai,” Seles said. “I wonder what she was like.”

  “She must’ve been great to inspire such feelings in him,” Mira said.

  “True,” Seles said.

  “On another topic, how’s it coming along?” Mira asked.

  “Let me take this off first,” Seles said before stepping out of her exoskeleton.

  She took a dance pose and moved her feet. After a minute of dancing she began singing an old Kalaidian hymn. After a few minutes she took her closing pose and ended the song. Mira smiled as she clapped.

  “All that training is paying off,” Mira said.

  Seles nodded. “I know I’m a slow learner, but once I get the drift there’s no stopping me.” She stepped back inside her exoskeleton and allowed it to close around her. “That and I have to inspire a certain Terran male.”

  “Both of us are his muses,” Mira said. “But seriously, you’ve gotten a lot better. In a few years you’ll be as good as me or Zae.”

  “Thanks for the compliment,” Seles said as they went to leave. “By the way, your piloting is improving as fast as my singing.”

  “It’s that bad, huh?” Mira asked.

  “Yeah, that bad,” Seles said.

  Chapter 3 - Lack of Faith

  The command center of the Columbia base was abuzz with activity while Veda and Shiken waited for the captains to arrive.

  “This is really bothering you, isn’t it?” Shiken asked.

  Veda balled her fists. “Even the most thick headed of nobles would at least act like they were listening. They threw away their ships like they were nothing!” She growled. “It’s enough to drive one mad.”

  “I’d say it already has,” Shiken said.

  Commander Reban entered the room.

  “Lady Veda, Lord Ka, I’ve finally gotten through to the Central Government,” she reported.

  “Are they saying anything different?” Veda asked.

  “No,” Reban said. “I’ve tried everything, including contacting the High Council on the matter. They say this is an internal dispute outside their jurisdiction.”

  “Their ineptitude strikes again,” Shiken said. “Have you contacted the other bases?”

  “The Nevada and Hong Kong bases are moving into position as we speak,” Reban answered as she went to her console.

  “Thanks for the update,” Veda said.

  “By the way,” Shiken said. “Who’s in charge of those two bases?”

  “The Hong Kong base is headed by your friend Miv Daek,” Veda answered. “Nevada is being led by Captain Lena Obril of the Heimus.”

  “I thought she was part of the regular Kalaidian military,” Shiken said.

  “She was until two years ago,” Veda explained. “When her term of service was up she asked the House of Commons for permission to join our organization. They approved of it of course.”

  Brian, Valis, Esra, El Kar, Kivi, Grigon, Myden, and Dreka entered the room. Each circled around the center table into their usual spots while Esra leaned against the wall.

  “Now that everyone’s here I’d like to discuss our next move,” Veda said. “Reban has tried everything to get the Reiki government to listen. As of now it’s been a fruitless venture.”

  “I was hoping a crushing defeat would change their mind,” Valis said.

  “Even if they send a fleet double or triple in size it won’t make a difference,” Kivi said.

  “If their government won’t see reason we’ll have to fight them until they do so,” Brian said. “The law of utility is taken seriously by their government. The only way to change their current stance is to make their interest to stop fighting us.”

  “How do we go about that?” Esra asked. “Do we keep fighting until they give up?”

  “That’s what I’m thinking,” Brian said.

  “They’ll send a fleet twice the size of the last in the next day or two,” Valis said. “Should we crush them a fleet twice that size will appear a few days later.”

  El Kar shook his head, “The line between conviction and madness is thin indeed.”

  “In any event, their government won’t listen to our pleas,” Veda said. “Valis, have you prepared a mission plan?”

  “I’ve already finished the next
three,” Valis answered. “The Reiki military has little innovation when it comes to tactics. I’ll send the details to everyone later today.”

  * * *

  Seles, Mira, and Jesela were relaxing in the Kalaidian communal bath. The spacious room was bright with a large pool of hot water in the center and a number of smaller ones around it. After sitting back for a few minutes Seles stretched and opened her eyes.

  “I thought you were going to sleep on us,” Jesela said.

  “I’m exhausted,” Seles said. “I’m sure all of us feel a little burned out.”

  “I know I am,” Mira said.

  “You two are acting like old ladies already,” Jesela said.

  “You’re naturally energetic, that’s all,” Mira said.

  “You got that right,” Seles added.

  “By the way, how’s he been lately?” Jesela asked.

  “He’s been busy,” Seles said.

  “Too busy,” Mira said.

  “In other words, he’s not available?” Jesela asked.

  Both Seles and Mira shook their heads.

  “Nope,” Mira said.

  “Not one night,” Seles said. “He keeps falling asleep before anything interesting happens.”

  “I’ve had the same issue,” Mira said.

  “Bummer,” Jesela said. “Don’t worry, he’ll find the energy sooner or later.”

  “I hope so,” Seles said.

  Kyli and a number of other Kalaidians entered the bath. When she saw them Kyli headed over.

  “Do you mind if I join you?” she asked.

  “Sure,” Jesela said.

  The other two nodded.

  Kyli stepped into the water and leaned back to relax. “I’ve been dreaming of this all day.”

  “He’s running you ragged, isn’t he?” Seles asked.

  Kyli sat up. “He just won’t stop! Day and night he’s following me around. I need a break.”

  “Who’s the suitor?” Mira asked.

  “Is it anyone we know?” Jesela asked.

  Seles started laughing while Kyli let out a big sigh.

  “I wish he’d pester you Seles,” Kyli said.

  “Who are you talking about?” Mira asked.

  “It’s Tctie,” Seles explained.

  “Why would an Ick-Tckt do that?” Jesela asked.

  “It’s because we’re female and he’s a drone,” Kyli said. “Since he lost his duchess he views females as his superiors.”

  “He hasn’t done anything against the ship’s regulations, has he?” Seles asked.

  “No,” Kyli said. “I just wish he’d understand I’m his equal, not his duchess.”

  “Their species is programmed to think like that,” Jesela said.

  “Maybe he’s smitten with you?” Mira suggested. “I mean, I wouldn’t blame him.”

  Kyli turned red. “I’d rather fly through a black hole then accept the admiration of an insect.”

  * * *

  Myden mediated in his room with his hood down and lights on. The thoughts of those fighting are close to becoming one. Grigon opened the door and stepped inside.

  “Your thoughts are wild these days,” Myden said before standing up. “I thought fire wasn’t in the blood of a Malcovin.”

  “It normally isn’t,” Grigon said.

  “You will have your vengeance old friend,” Myden said. “Our organization will inevitably battle with the king of your people.”

  “I know,” the old Malcovin said. “What about you Myden, do you have anyone you’re spoiling to fight?”

  Myden nodded. “Yes. There’s one Naerendi I look forward to driving my staff through.”

  “Is it for a woman?” Grigon asked.

  “Perhaps,” Myden said. “Like you, I want but one petty thing. Beyond that the plan is all I live for.”

  “It’s good to know I’m not alone in having an ulterior motive,” Grigon said.

  “None of us are here solely because of ideals,” Myden said. “Everyone has another motive. Ideals serve to keep us from tearing each other apart.”

  Chapter 4 - Fleet Battle

  Valis stood on the bridge of the Avoni in deep thought. Zae, Baed, and Vae all attended to their duties while the ship headed outside the Columbia base.

  “You can move out any time captain,” Daes reported from the launching bay.

  Valis grabbed the helmet of her exoskeleton off the captain’s chair and turned to the others.

  “I’m glad I have a crew as competent as all of you are,” Valis said. “Now that my place on the battlefield has changed I’m delegating a lot more to each of you.”

  “It’s alright Valis,” Zae said. “We learned from the best so we’re good at our jobs.”

  “We’ll take care of her,” Baed said.

  “Thanks everyone,” Valis said before leaving.

  “Is it just me or is the captain different?” Vae asked.

  “Maybe she’s berserking too much,” Baed said.

  “I don’t think it’s that,” Zae said. “She’s got a lot on her mind these days.”

  * * *

  Valis entered the launching bay and headed for the Minerva. Celi ran in moment later and stopped to chat with Daes before joining her. Celi stepped into her blue exoskeleton at the foot of the Aegis while looking at Valis.

  “You’re starting to look like him,” she said.

  Valis shook it off. “Every time I berserk my mind sees more.”

  “Do you want me to check you over after we‘re done?” Celi asked.

  Valis nodded. “I don’t think anything’s wrong but my mind is out of focus.”

  “Does the Minerva’s system show you the future?”

  “In a way,” Valis answered. “It shows me the probabilities in a mix of numerical and visual ways,” she stared at the mobile suit, “and as a result, I’m having a hard time telling if I’m dreaming or awake.”

  “What future does it show you now?”

  “Victory,” Valis said.

  “That’s all I needed to hear,” Celi said.

  The two of them grabbed the elevator cords on their mobile suits and headed inside. After the Avoni exited the base the other five ships followed. The Minerva and Aegis launched while Valis checked her battle plans. From the Freedom the Artemis and Siren emerged, while the Gemini came from the Raulno.

  * * *

  Brian was on the bridge of the Freedom when Kiel Redar appeared on the screen. He waved his tentacles around in a flurry of panic. Brian watched carefully before turning to the others.

  “Prepare for battle,” Brian said.

  “Everything’s ready to go,” Jesela reported.

  “Weapons systems activated,” Myden added.

  “All mobile suits are in optimal condition,” Grigon said.

  Brian hit the com at the captain’s chair. “Kyli, Tctie, take formation D-7.”

  “Yes captain,” Kyli said.

  “As you wish,” Tctie responded.

  The mobile suits launched from the Freedom and took defensive positions around the ship. The Avoni, Daevoni, Raulno, Reinkar, and Vomada all did likewise as they launched their smaller crafts. While the forces of the Columbia base spread out in front of the colonies the space nearby flashed with light as scores of Reiki ships emerged from gravity jump. They quickly moved into formation and launched their fighters.

  “This is your captain speaking,” Brian said. “Behind us are millions of Reiki who’ve been forsaken by their government. If we fail they’ll be slaughtered for their defiance. We can’t allow that. It’s time we show their government we mean business by striking a blow to this act of tyranny. This is our first liberation. Let’s make it one to remember.”

  * * *

  “He’s getting better,” Mira said.

  She and Seles flew their mobile suits to join the other three. The Reiki fleet began moving in their direction.

  “Yes he is,” Seles said as she glanced at her monitor. “What are they doing?”


  Valis appeared on their screens. “They’ve identified our crafts as the main threat to their cause.” She sent her plan to all of them. “Seles, Kivi, the two of you will attack at long range to thin them out. Mira, keep the song system ready in case they swarm us. Celi, your job is to maintain the middle of our formation. I’ll act as support if any of you need help.”

  “Readying the system now,” Mira said.

  “The shields are working perfectly,” Celi said.

  “I’ve got it,” Seles said.

  “Moving into position now,” Kivi said.

  The Artemis and Gemini moved to the front and charged their pulse cannons. When the Reiki fleet came close enough the two fired.

  * * *

  Veda and Shiken Ka kept order from the base’s command center while all of the commanders in charge of the ships were on the monitors.

  “Do you think we should call them in?” Shiken asked.

  Veda shook her head. “Not this time, we should be able to handle a fleet this size on our own.”

  “Six ships and a base versus two hundred,” Shiken said. “Normally I wouldn’t stay in the face of such odds.”

  “You trust Valis that much, don’t you?” Esra asked from the bridge of the Daevoni.

  “Personal experience has taught me such,” Shiken said.

  “I have to agree,” Brian said.

  “Has everyone reviewed their part in this?” Veda asked.

  “We’re ready to charge when the time comes,” Brian said.

  “So are we,” El Kar said.

  “I’d rather be out there fighting myself,” Dreka said from the bridge of the Raulno. “But yes, we’re ready.”

  “We’re ready anytime,” Esra said.

  “Meldi’s ready to charge with the Mjolnir,” Zae said.

  The only response from the Vomada was a beep and text saying ready.

  “I think Grigon needs to give the droids over there a bit more personality,” Esra said.

  “No, he’s already corrupted four of them by doing that,” Dreka said.

  Brian smiled. “You’ve got that right.”