Fury Of The Phoenix (Exodus)

by Robert Stadnik

  Chris turned off the display. There was no cheers or celebration. No one said a word in response to the news.

  “Do you agree with the decision of the committee?” Korifluxinina asked John.

  John and Julie got up from the couch and faced the group. “Julie and I were contacted by the committee shortly after they met with the Screen leadership. They wanted our input on what we thought should be done. After extensive discussions between us, we chose not to offer an opinion and removed ourselves from the decision making process.”

  “Why?” asked Tim. “You saw what the Screen did.”

  “We lost a lot of people because of them, which made us the last ones to say how they should be punished,” said Julie. “It’s not our place to say what should happen to them.”

  “Our mission was to stop the Screen and we did,” added John. “We did our job, and had to stand aside and let the committee do their job.” John personally felt he couldn’t give the committee any input. He would forever blame the Screen for taking away the people he cared for, and he could never be objective when it came to them.

  “I wonder how the other alliance races will react to the decision?” Bret thought aloud.

  “Our queen speaks for us,” said Korifluxinina.

  “The decision was a collaboration between all the races,” said Thresha. The Aldarians elected to have the humans speak for them in the committee, agreeing to support whatever stance the human representative took. For the Aldarians, the safety of their homeworld was their priority. Now that the Screen had been defeated, their world was safe.

  “The Senfo wanted more than this,” said Duno. “They will not be happy.”

  John wasn’t surprised to hear this, and suspected similar sentiments from the Cresorians. Out of all the alliance races, the Senfo and Cresorians suffered the most at the hands of the Screen. No punishment would satisfy either race.

  “Let’s keep in mind that the Screen are no longer a threat,” said Chris. “And if nothing else, it brought us all together.”

  “The drag queen is correct,” squealed Fooni, whose diminutive stature was inebriated by the one glass of Quix mud juice, the only alcoholic beverage they were susceptible to. “We are forever free of the Screen.”

  His comments broke the stale mood in the room, and everyone relaxed into easygoing conversations.

  “I’ll see you in a bit,” Julie said to John as she rejoined Mitchell Connors, her engineer boyfriend on the couch.

  “That was a pretty nice speech you gave,” Chris said to John as he handed him a glass of wine. “But admit it. You wanted to tell them what should happen to the Screen.”

  “I was tempted,” admitted John. “But I’ve already done things because of my emotions. No matter how justified I felt, I couldn’t do that again.”

  Chris suspected John was referring to his breakdown. He never found out what John did that finally broke him, and the captain never opened up to Chris what he did. “So you’re fine with their decision?”

  “Not really,” admitted John. “But I have to accept that my role with the Screen ended when we defeated them. Whatever happens to them now has to be out of my hands.”

  CHAPTER TWENTY-SEVEN

  “Alliance station, this is PHOENIX,” said Bret. “We’re holding at requested coordinates.”

  An image of an Onixin appeared on the communications monitor. “Acknowledged, PHOENIX. This is Hui’is, caundu of the station. I am transmitting a shuttle traffic schedule to you. Docking pylons Alpha and Beta have been designated for your use. I have been assigned to be your traffic coordinator during your stay.”

  “Thank you, caundu,” replied Bret. “You’ll be working with Lieutenant Block in coordinating our traffic activity. He’ll be your liaison to our hangar bay.”

  “Very well, lieutenant,” said Hui’is. “Contact me again when you are ready to send your shuttles over.”

  “Acknowledged. Michaels out.” He looked at David, who was sitting next to him. “Think you can handle it?”

  “I’ve never coordinated shuttle traffic with a space station before,” David said nervously.

  “Vish will handle most of the logistics,” said Bret. “Both you and the hangar should only need to provide minimal input on the schedule.”

  “Ok, but one thing, sir. What’s a caundu?”

  “That’s an Onixin title for station operator. Kind of like how vori is their term for ship commander.”

  “Oh.” David wasn’t even aware of that. He was beginning to realize that he had a lot to learn about the alliance aliens.

  The alien trading station was never claimed by the former station facilitator’s race. So it was decided to turn it into an observation and restocking hub for alliance ships. Each alliance race sent a group of their military officers to work at the station. Forty-three of PHOENIX’s crew members would be transferring to the station. In addition, the ship was off-loading an assortment of weapons, medical supplies, and other necessities for the station.

  John was in his office with Julie, X, and Thresha going over some ship business. The workload for John was becoming overwhelming so he asked Thresha to help him with some of the administrative tasks. He was glad she accepted, as it was a chance to spend some time with one of his close friends. He felt he hadn’t seen much of her since defeating the Screen. Her presence was helping him keep focus away from the ring he saw on Julie’s hand. He spotted it this morning during the senior staff meeting, but so far Julie hadn’t made so much of an announcement.

  “Michelle Fergus from the office of Senator Mayfus alerted us that the Rifva government sent a message to the solar system,” reported Thresha. “They are requesting a delegation exchange to explore establishing formal relations.”

  “Did she mention anything about Zuk?” asked Julie, referring to the Rifva who killed a human maintenance tech and was being held in the brig.

  “The situation with Zuk is a topic the Rifva plan to discuss during the initial meeting,” replied Thresha. “Until a decision is made, he is to remain on PHOENIX.”

  “Fair enough,” said John. “Davers says Zuk hasn’t made a fuss down there. But speaking of security, they’re reporting an increased number of public disturbances down in Central. Destruction of property, fights.”

  “I read that report,” said Julie as she pulled it up on her holographic DAT. “What’s interesting is that, except for a couple instances, they all involve Cresorians.”

  “Drix would be so proud,” John quipped sarcastically. “Any idea what’s going on?”

  “Our doctors think it has to do with the Cresorians living solitary lives for generations,” explained Julie. “They’re so used to living alone, they’re having a tough time adjusting to living on a ship with thousands of aliens.”

  “I sympathized with them, but we need to get a handle on this before it gets out of hand, or someone gets seriously hurt,” said John.

  “So far security has confined the perpetrators to their quarters for a day,” said Julie.

  “Going forward, anyone involved in anymore disturbances goes directly to the brig for at least two days,” said John. “And have the chief increase security’s presence in Central.”

  “Will do,” said Julie as she transmitted the orders to Davers through her DAT.

  “I think that’s it for ship business,” said John. “Do we have anything from the alliance?”

  “The Onixin military has reported that a merchant freighter from their world has gone missing,” reported Thresha. “They have dispatched a cruiser to its last known location.”

  “Are they requesting help from us?” asked Julie.

  “No,” replied Thresha. “The freighter was one of their older ships and they believe it may have encountered engine problems or communications issues.”

  “I want to keep a priority tab on that one,” said John.

  “It’s probably nothing,” Julie said, trying to reassure him. She knew he was thinking the Io might be responsible. �
��Lots can happen in space.”

  “You’re probably right, but for my piece of mind,” said John.

  “I will add it to your schedule for monitoring,” said Thresha. “I was contacted by the new station facilitator, Treen.”

  John was aware that a Senfo was elected leader of the station. “She’s invited us to take a tour of the station and provide input on how it should be retrofitted.”

  “I have found some time in both your schedules,” said Thresha. “However, Treen has asked if you could contact the Ni.”

  “What for?” asked John.

  “The Ni is the only race that did not send a delegate to live on the station,” said Thresha. “She contacted them personally but the Ni simply stated they were not interested the affairs of the station.”

  “They’ve declined all requests to establish relations with all the alliance races,” said Julie. “It’s as if they’re no longer interested in us now that the Screen have been defeated. Have you talked to Jacks about this?”

  “I have,” said John. “But it claims it doesn’t know what’s motivating them. Given that it’s not linked to the whole, I’m inclined to believe it.”

  “It just seems odd,” Julie commented. “They built all sorts of their technology into PHOENIX. You’d think they’d at least have a vested interest in this ship.”

  “Perhaps you should reach out to them,” Thresha advised John.

  “I’ve already tried. They won’t even answer my calls. If they don’t want to interact with us, we can’t force them. All we can do is wait and hope they change their minds.” John checked the list on his DAT. “I think we’re caught up for now.”

  “With your permission, I will contact Treen and set up a time for the tour,” said Thresha.

  “Thanks, Thresha,” said Julie as the Aldarian left the office. She turned to look at John, apprehensive about breaking her news to him. She looked down at her ring. “I wanted to tell you before our meeting, but Thresha got here before I did.”

  “You don’t have to apologize,” John reassured her as he got up and gave her a hug. “I’m happy for you, congratulations. Have you set a date?”

  “Not yet,” said Julie. “Mitchell popped the question last night. We haven’t even discussed a wedding date. Hell, I haven’t even told my father.”

  “Well, he’s a really nice guy and he seems to care a lot about you,” said John. “Whatever help you guys need, let me know.”

  “Thanks.” Julie was worried how John would react to her engagement. She knew he still harbored some pain from losing Alex’sis, and didn’t want her happiness to upset him.

  The two went about their business for the rest of the day, but Julie’s news caused John to reflect on his own situation. He ended his day early and returned to his apartment, where X was reviewing the food stock to determine what it should make for dinner tonight.

  “This unit did not expect you home early,” said the bot. “Dinner has not been prepared.”

  “That’s ok.” John maneuvered around the bot and grabbed a bottle of cranberry juice from the refrigerator. “I’m not hungry.” After pouring himself a glass he settled on the couch in the living room.

  “Your mannerisms indicate you are preoccupied with thought,” said X as it hoisted itself on the couch next to John and its ocular sensor focused on him.

  “Julie got engaged last night,” revealed John.

  “Based on the interactions I have observed, I conclude that Mitchell Connors is the individual who proposed to her,” said X.

  John nodded. “I’m happy for her. I really am, but it got me thinking about my own life.”

  “You are referring to Alex’sis Brandus.” John told X about his relationship with Alex’sis, how much he loved her, how painful it was to lose her.

  “She was the love of my life,” said John. “I see that same love between Julie and Mitchell. I know some people can move on and find someone else, but I can’t.”

  “Finding happiness with another person is a common behavioral driver,” said X. “Humans do that all the time.”

  “I don’t operate that way,” said John. “Alex’sis was the only one for me. I can’t replace her, and wouldn’t want to. I’ll always love her and don’t think I could have those same feelings with someone else.”

  “You have told this unit numerous times how difficult it was to accept Alex’sis’ passing,” said X. “Perhaps you need more time.”

  “Maybe,” said John as he fidgeted with his glass. “I’m glad Julie has found someone. She deserves to be happy.”

  X patted John on the back in an attempt to comfort him.

  CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT

  “Here.” Max handed Chris another glass of ice water. The singer sipped it gently, the cold sensation soothing his aching throat.

  “The next time I sing ‘Telling it’ and ‘Breakout’ together, slap me silly. I’m too old to be doing those songs back to back.”

  “The crowd loved it,” Max reminded him.

  Chris’ face lit up and he momentarily forgot about the pain in his throat. “Yeah, they did go nuts over it.”

  The Lounge was, typical for the mornings, empty except for a couple of people chatting at a table and some bots cleaning up the club. Max was restocking bottles behind the bar as Chris nursed his sore throat. A visit to medical was on the agenda for today. He was planning to perform tonight and couldn’t let his throat linger like this.

  “Command deck to Chris Anne,” came the voice of Rudov over Chris’ pip.

  “What is it, sweetie?”

  “There is an incoming message for you from the Senfo homeworld.”

  That was odd. The only Senfo Chris had made friends with were all on PHOENIX. He hopped off his stool and walked to behind the bar. “Send it down here.”

  He activated the monitor behind the bar and was surprised to see Danuo, leader of the Senfo Commonality. “Danuo!”

  “Chris Anne, it is pleasing to see you,” said the diminutive leader.

  “Uh, thanks.”

  “I hope this is an appropriate time to speak with you. It is of the upmost importance,” said Danuo.

  “You sure you don’t want to be talking with Captains Roberts or Olson?” asked Chris.

  “I will be speaking with them soon, but I must discuss this with you first.”

  Chris Anne never expected to have the leader of an alien homeworld wanting an audience with him. But the Senfo had piqued his curiosity. “Ok, what’s on your mind?”

  “The commonality has been hearing about the human concept of music ever since our people began serving on the PHOENIX. They have sent back recordings of your music to our homeworld and it has captivated the population.”

  Chris almost blushed and was glad he put on makeup this morning. “I’m glad to hear that my songs are bringing so much joy to your people.”

  Danuo adjusted his hat. “You do not understand the extent your music has on the Senfo. Let me show you.” Danuo pulled up a video feed and what Chris saw took his breath away. It showed streets filled with Senfo and Chris’ music blaring throughout the cities. Pictures of him were plastered everywhere.

  “This has become a routine tradition and occurs in all our cities,” explained Danuo as he ended the video feed. “You have inspired the Senfo, made them forget about what the Screen did to us. We are rebuilding our world with renewed vigor.”

  “I…I don’t know what to say.” Chris never experienced such an overwhelming reaction to his music, even at the height of his career back on Earth.

  “Your species has done so much to help us,” said Danuo. “And what I ask you I ask on behalf of all Senfo. Would you consider moving to our homeworld? We have created a position in the commonality just for you.”

  “What kind of position?” asked a surprised Chris.

  “You would be our cultural guide, responsible for leading the Senfo in creating new ways to express ourselves through art.”

  Chris almost had to sit down. He neve
r expected such a request. “But I’m human. How can you expect an alien to represent your people’s culture?”

  “The Senfo already believe in you,” explained Danuo. “We know that you are the one to guide us to a new era of prosperity.”

  Chris was dumbfounded by such an honorable request. He was responsible for ship morale and entertaining the crew. He never imagined his talents could affect an entire world. “There’s so much to consider.”

  “I understand I am asking a lot from you,” said Danuo. “I simply request that you consider it. Would it be alright if I discuss this with your captains?”

  “Not at all, I’m going to have to talk to them anyways,” said Chris.

  “I look forward to your answer,” said Danuo as he tipped his hat.

  Chris nodded to the Senfo leader as he took a step back and turned off the monitor.

  “Wow!” said Max as he slapped Chris on the back. “Way to go!”

  “Shit, sweetie!” winced Chris from the pain. “That’s going to leave a bruise.”

  “Sorry,” replied Max. “But this is huge. Are you going to do it?”

  “I don’t know.” The Senfo on board were his biggest fans and they came to every one of his performances. But for the entire Senfo race to have fallen in love with his music? It was inconceivable.

  Over at the Stardust Café, Julie walked in looking for Mu. One of the waiters directed to her to the kitchen, where she found the Rifva juggling three pans with his hands.

  “Hey Mu,” announced Julie, getting his attention.

  “Captain Olson. Would you like some breakfast? I am testing a new cuisine. You could be the first one to try it.”

  “Thanks, but I already ate,” said Julie. “I wanted to let you know your government contacted mine.”

  “I am glad that they elected to make contact with your people,” said Mu.

  “They’re aware of the situation with Zuk and will be discussing him when the diplomats meet. But your government has asked that you relay what you witnessed in security to them. They’ve provided the name of a contact and transmission protocol for you to use. It’s been uploaded to your personal database.”