Seles sighed. “It’s not like it was a choice. Since his left eye started glowing he’s been vacant on our nights together. Sometimes I felt he was looking through me and not at me. After a while I got used to it.” She smiled. “I’m sure it’s the same with Mira. In a way we got used to it because he left us sooner.”
“That’s horrible,” Valis said.
“Yeah, but he’ll come to his senses sooner or later,” Seles said. “As far as he’s gone I have a feeling Brian won’t leave us. I’m praying he doesn’t come back as some strange life form.”
“I can guess why,” Valis said.
“He wouldn’t be much fun in the bedroom like that,” Seles said. “Is there anything else?”
“Before we move forward I’d like to meet with Myden,” Valis said. “Both El Kar and myself need to speak with him about a number of things.”
“I’m sorry to say this but he’s not here right now,” Seles said. “I wanted to talk to him yesterday and found he’s gone.”
“Did he leave a message about when he’d be coming back?”
“Myden never leaves messages,” Seles said. “But as soon as he comes back I’ll arrange it.”
“Thank you,” Valis said. “How’s the Freedom coming along?”
“Why don’t I show you?” Seles offered as she stood up.
She led Valis to the docking bay. They stood before the massive ship.
“I’m curious to know why he wanted it made so big,” Valis said.
“I’m not sure about that,” Seles said. “I do know its capacity for mobile suits is twice the Avoni’s and its power systems are second to none. From what Jesela keeps telling me it’s a match for an Original Five vessel.”
Kivi and Dreka stepped out of the Raulno and joined them.
“The Freedom would easily be a match for a Mylor battleship,” Dreka said.
“Interesting,” Valis said. “How do our ships compare?”
“If the Avoni, Daevoni, and Raulno combined their resources they might be able to sink it,” Dreka said. “But I wouldn’t count on it.”
“Sounds like we’re going to need another upgrade,” Kivi said. “Dreka, when could you get on that?”
“I’ll start preparations as soon as the Gemini is finished,” the birdman answered.
“What’s taking you so long?” Seles said.
Dreka cawed. “I had a moment of absolute genius. Yes, I did. After a few nights without sleep I completed the system needed for the Gemini program. Kivi will be unbeatable with it.”
“I wonder why he insisted each of us had a special mobile suit built,” Valis said. “I can understand Seles and Kivi, you two are warriors after all, but for Mira, Celi, and me it’s different.”
“It’s because you bear the mark of the Maidens,” Myden said telepathically. The four turned to see him step out of the Freedom. “Where one falls five will stand; that’s the principle behind the Teacher’s plan.”
“I’d like you to explain a few things,” Valis said. “We’re tired of being in the dark Myden.”
“I understand,” the old Grey said with his raspy voice. “It was necessary to keep most of you in the dark. Until now my only confidant has been Grigon. I will call for a meeting soon to explain everything. For now I’ll only say this much: The plan requires the five Maidens have chariots. The chosen design happens to be mobile suits, but anything allowing you to focus your energies would do.”
“Where does Brian fit into this plan?” Valis asked.
“The Warrior acts as the catalyst for the Maidens,” he said. “He begins the process of awakening in each of you.”
“If I remember my chemistry right a catalyst is consumed in the process,” Kivi said. “What happens to him?”
“If he survives the process he will remain as a powerful ally,” Myden said.
“What if he doesn’t?” Seles asked.
“Then the Maidens better get their act together,” Myden said. “Otherwise Alden will be consumed in madness.”
Chapter 28 - As Things Come Together
Celestia stood in the throne room of the royal palace surrounded by officers of numerous ranks, mixed in with them were a few Braiden officers. The room had monitors in every convenient spot to observe the goings on inside the Confederation. The doors opened resoundingly as Jabril entered with a quartet of officers. She met Celestia at the top of the steps.
“What’s the latest?” Celestia asked.
“According to our intelligence reports the Mjolnir headed out on its own,” Jabril said. “But what’s got High Council sweating is this.”
She pointed to the monitors as they displayed the battle between the Mjolnir and the Reiki suppressors. Celestia and everyone in the room stopped what they were doing to watch the recording. After a few minutes of silence the door opened again. Ambassador Jita of the Mylor Republic came through. The others started up their conversations as he made his way to Celestia and Jabril.
“Lord Jita, what brings you to our meeting?” Celestia asked.
The Mylor floated silently while the replay appeared on the screen. “I came regarding your world’s current stance on Heaven’s Light,” he said with his robotic voice. “If you continue funding their organization the High Council will sanction you.”
“Threatening us will do nothing about our decision,” Jabril said. “This was not decided by the Parliament or nobility. This was decided by the vote of the people of Kali. We’re simply following their will.”
“Is this the truth?” he asked after turning to Celestia.
“Yes,” she said. “If they wish to push for sanctions then do so. Kalaidia was brought back from the dead by Brian. We’ll stand by him no matter the feelings of the High Council.”
“Then I’ll convey your decision,” Jita said. He watched the video as it played.
“Does the video bother you?” Celestia asked.
“No,” Jita said. “But it bothers many others. An awakened Terran is unacceptable at this juncture, especially if his destination is correct.”
“Have your people figured out where he’s headed?” Jabril asked.
“If the pattern of sightings hold true he’ll reach Terra Prime in a few months,” the Mylor ambassador said. “We must prevent him from reaching his homeworld at all costs. Otherwise there will be another Geluke Don.”
* * *
Seles watched Valis and Celi practice in the simulators. After a prolonged virtual battle ending with their victory the two emerged from the pods looking exhausted. After both took a drink of water they went to Seles.
“So, how did we do?” Celi asked.
Seles shook her head. “I see why he was yelling at you.”
“We’re that bad?” Valis asked.
“You’re not as bad as I feared,” Seles said. “We can count our blessings Brian’s distracting them for the moment.”
“So what are we doing wrong?” Valis asked.
“Don’t make fun of us, show us,” Celi said.
“Alright,” Seles said. “You know the basic idea behind our special mobile suits.”
“One acts as the attacker while the second is support,” Valis said. “It works the same way with you and Mira on the Freedom.”
“That’s the basic premise,” Seles said. “But the two of you aren’t acting in sync. Battle is like a dance. If you and your partner act as one victory will be the result. Let’s try this again with me as your opponent.”
“Sure,” Celi said.
“The best way to learn is by demonstration,” Valis said.
Seles stepped out of her exoskeleton before joining them in the simulators. She programmed the battle scenario to take place in a gas giant’s ice and rock filled ring system. Her choice of vessel was a Phase Rakna. When the other two loaded up the virtual versions of the Minerva and Aegis appeared nearby. Seles activated the com.
“Now I’m going to appear from a random location,” she explained. “The two of you are going to try shooting me down.”
> “As you wish,” Valis said.
The Aegis activated its shield and held next to the Minerva. Valis turned her scanners on and charged the pulse cannon.
“She chose the worst situation,” Celi said.
“No,” Valis said. “The middle of a massive battle would’ve been worse.”
“You’re right now that you mention it,” Celi said.
A Phase Rakna flew from behind a nearby icy chunk and fired a series of pulse cannon shots at them. The Aegis’s shield held strong and deflected all of the attacks. The mobile suit ducked behind a series of asteroids. A few minutes later the Rakna did a pass from a different angle and was deflected like the first time.
“I think one of us needs to move,” Celi said. “She’s moving closer with each volley.”
“Agreed,” Valis said.
The Minerva flew away from the Aegis. As it did so Valis activated the demo version of her mobile suit’s combat data system. She turned her mobile suit around and aimed the rifle for the asteroid behind the Aegis. As she fired the pulse cannon the Phase Rakna moved away and returned fire. The Aegis flew in between and absorbed the attack. The Minerva flew in and drew its sword. Before the Rakna could fly away the Minerva slashed and cut off one of its legs. Seles retreated behind some asteroids. A warning sign came up on the Minerva. Valis pulled back as a nearby ice chunk exploded because of a mine. She checked the system again and fired the cannon at another asteroid, this time damaging the Phase Rakna severely. Seles put up the call sign. The simulation ended and all three stepped outside.
“It seems the Minerva’s systems are better than I thought,” Seles said. She smiled at the other two. “You finally displayed the team work I mentioned.”
“I’m the sword,” Valis said.
“And I’m the shield,” Celi added.
“Together the two of you make a complete warrior,” Seles said. “But from what I can see it’s important that the five of us get together and do battle simulations.”
“Agreed,” Valis said. “The Minerva’s systems are best used in conjunction with a unit.”
“Do we have the other suit’s specs in the system?” Celi asked.
“Yes,” Seles said. “Jesela can add the Artemis and Siren. I’m sure when he’s ready Dreka will add the Gemini.”
“I think I’m getting the hang of this,” Valis said.
“Remember one thing,” Seles said. “Fight in your mobile suits without using the special systems as much as possible. Otherwise they’ll be a crutch when their use is limited.”
“Good idea,” Celi said.
“I can think of a few situations when the Minerva’s systems won’t be of much help,” Valis said. She glanced at the simulators. “How about getting together once a day for an hour until our debut?”
“I can handle that,” Celi said.
“No problem,” Seles said. “I’m sure the others can make it.”
“It’s not like we have much to do right now,” Valis said.
* * *
Trai Gor and Shiken Ka stood at the top of the main orbital tower above Shandi Prime. The entire structure was filled with fanfare in celebration of the orbital ring’s completion. Outside, the docks were building numerous warships and mobile armors.
“The Mylor ambassador keeps saying ominous things to me,” Trai Gor said. “It seems the High Council wants to sanction us.”
“They won’t,” Shiken Ka said. “Both Kalaidia and Shandi are too important to the overall economy of the Confederation. The last thing they want is to shoot their providence in the tail.”
Trai Gor laughed. “All too true,” he paused as another heavy class vessel launched from the dock, “The only economy more important than ours is the Malcovin.”
“That’s only because of their greedy king,” Shiken said. “I’ve heard some nasty rumors of late that his soldiers are posing as mercenaries and exploiting a number of Odairan colonies.”
“Not surprising considering their vow of pacifism,” Trai Gor said. “But who am I to judge? After all, by throwing in with Heaven’s Light our goal is peace.”
“We must be strong to ensure it happens,” Shiken said. “Well, it’s time for me to leave again.”
“Stay strong Shiken,” Trai Gor said.
“And to you as well my lord,” he said before leaving the room.
Trai Gor checked to make sure he was alone. “You can come out now.”
“I waited for him to leave for a while,” Myden said telepathically. “So Lord Gor, is everything in place?”
“Yes,” the Shandi lord said. “When the time is right the High Council will fall to its knees.”
Chapter 29 - 102 Light-years Away
The Mjolnir flew alone at the edge of a star system. Its phase cloak was down and weapons ready. Brian stood outside in his exoskeleton and watched as they passed by a comet.
“It’s more beautiful than I imagined,” he said. He drew his blade and practiced a weapon drill. “The only problem is your size. You’re simply not big enough.”
“If I was you’d say I was fat,” the mobile suit said. Both took a moment to laugh before Brian looked to his side.
“You’ve got to be kidding me,” he said.
“What are you seeing this time?” the Mjolnir asked.
Brian laughed. “You don’t even want to know.” He shook his head and focused his eyes on the icy bodies nearby. “The only reason I can tell this is reality anymore is because my dreams aren’t so vivid.”
“I think we’ve been isolated for too long,” the Mjolnir said.
“Almost three months,” Brian said.
“We’re a little over a hundred light years from Earth,” the mobile suit reported.
Brian went through another weapon drill with his rakna blade. “Good, then prepare to record the following message.”
“You can start at any time.”
“For those waiting for the last message it has finally come. My name is Brian Peterson. According to my calculations this should arrive at Earth sometime in the year 2122. I know it seems like I’ve given little chance to your survival, but I’m betting on it nonetheless.” He paused and put his hand near his eye. “Hope will be found in humanity’s awakening. How this manifests for the rest of you I don’t know, but I’ve nearly achieved that state myself. When I say awakening I don’t mean simply growing as a people. I don’t mean unification either. What I mean is to surpass what you are and become what you will be. The awakening I speak of is the crossing the threshold of consciousness. There’s so much more I wish I could say, but words alone can’t describe it. But I’ll try my best. For the last two years I’ve seen things…and heard things. But most of all…learned things. When I close my eyes I feel the heartbeat of the universe. Perhaps reality is nothing more than a dream. In the state I’m in I can’t tell anymore. The voices in my head might be the onset of Nanopsychosis, or something else. What I do know is that in order to survive we must be willing to move forward. For those of us in space it means to fight. We have to pass the test of existence. The Greys will try to destroy us. If they succeed the Earth will be next. The enemy we face is unlike any you can imagine. The Grey’s machine god feels no fear, no emotion, and no regret. It’s a being of pure control filled with malice and dark thoughts. At this moment it’s trying to turn me to its side.” Brian gazed at the darkness all around him and the Mjolnir. “We’ll do our best and I ask you do as well. Humanity can be so much more than it is. The older races fear us as much as they put their hopes into us. I know why now, something the others don’t know.” He pointed the tip of the rakna at Andromeda. “The Greys have already overrun our sister galaxy. Because the races there were under developed they were an easy target. Currently they own a galaxy and a half. Even if we succeed in driving them from the Milky Way our future is not ensured. That’s why humanity is so important. In a few centuries our people will be renowned amongst the Confederation races. We’ll fly further and faster than any they’ve ever se
en before. This will be the last message you receive from me. Whether I live to see the future with you is to be determined. But before leaving you I have one prophecy to give. When the light is dimmest look to the eye of Jupiter; from there a dragon will come bearing a Warrior of Kali. She will show you the way. This is Brian Peterson signing off.”
“I got it,” the Mjolnir said.
“Send it out on all frequencies,” he ordered.
“Done,” the mobile suit responded. A light flashed in the interior. “Brian, there’s an encoded message coming through.”
“Is it from the Siberia base?”
“Yes.”
“Put her through,” Brian said.
He stepped inside the mobile suit before it pressurized the interior and returned breathable air to the room. He removed his helmet to reveal his glowing red eye. On the monitor appeared the face of a young Kalaidian captain with flowing dark green hair and matching green eyes.
“It’s good to see you Commander Peterson,” she said.
“I thought you’d be holding a bigger grudge being so far out here Captain Sheris,” Brian said.
She sighed. “I didn’t care for it at first but sometimes boredom can be alright.” She smiled. “It’s good to see you’re alright.”
“As alright as one can be after so much time alone,” he said. “Hearing your voice and seeing your face is the best thing to happen today.”
“Do you want us to report the situation back to headquarters?”
“Go ahead,” Brian responded. “I’m surprised the Mylor let you pass through their territory.”
“They insist on keeping a ship inside our base,” Sheris said. “It’s a small price to pay for the tour. By the way, when will we start receiving signals from Terran Prime?”
“Keep moving closer and you’ll get all the information you seek,” he said.
“I’m looking forward to it,” she said. “Damn, we’d better end this.”
“We’re detecting the fleet again,” the Mjolnir reported.
“Alright,” Brian said. “Sheris, take care of Siberia. I’ll draw their attention.”
Freedom Saga 1: Heaven's Light Page 15
