E A James Winters Edge [ang]

Contents Disclaimer Title Far Hope Prequel - Winter's Edge Far Hope - Book #1 - THOR Preview Far Hope Series - THOR - Amazon Link

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WINTER’S EDGE Far Hope Series Prequel E.A. James Siren Song Publications ©2017

WINTER’S EDGE CHAPTER ONE “You have to act fast, Captain. They’re gaining.” The voice coming through the speaker wasn’t telling her anything she didn’t already know. Did he think she was blind? She could see the dots on her sensor array growing bigger and bigger. Pushing down hard on the intercom, she glared at the displays in front of her, daring her enemies to get within her reach. “Are the missiles lowered?” “Did you ask me to lower them?” the calm, cool voice replied. “Lower them!” Kira snapped, not worrying about her forceful tone or abrupt order. Just as she released the intercom button, an enemy ship came into view on her starboard camera feed. The enemy vessel had locked in on her position, and sensors were beeping wildly around her. Inhaling sharply, she pushed down on the controls, sending her ship into a quick free-fall, guiding it out of the enemy’s line of sight. As she continued to descend, she scanned the screens, checking the monitors with quick, swift glances. Surely there was more than one of them out there. The sensors began to beep again. The first ship had

begun to dive after her. Her eyes quickly shifted to the monitor to her right, the one connected to her ship’s rear camera. She saw the large, metallic body of the ship growing closer, inching up on her position as its large turrets swiveled in her direction. Just as the image rippled with the explosion of the projectile weapon being fired from its heavy barrel, Kira pulled the ship up. The torpedo zipped past her vessel, just missing it. As she ascended once again, she spun the ship around, positioning the crosshairs on the belly of the ship as it turned to continue its pursuit. Just as her target came clearly into view, the sensors once again began their high-pitched chorus. “There’s another one, Captain,” the voice came over the intercom again. As she had anticipated, another ship warped in on her location, appearing suddenly behind her. The ship in front of her, visible now through the viewscreen locked in on her position as the newcomers did the same from behind. As the beeping grew louder, her heart beat faster. She moved her hand from the launch switch and grabbed hold of the ship’s controls once again. Her eyes darted back and forth between the monitor linked to the rear camera and the viewscreen sprawling out in front of her. “Come on,” she whispered slowly, holding her breath. “Come on.”

Simultaneously, the two vessels let their weapons fly— the two torpedoes hurled through the air, their paths aimed directly at her. She pulled up on the controls forcefully, sending her ship on a quick ascent, just as the two projectiles collided into each other. As the ripple effect of the explosion shook through the air, she spun her ship around, locking her targets once again on the first ship. Both of the enemy vessels were caught in the aftershock, and she needed to act fast before they were able to regain complete control. Just as the crosshairs of her missile guns covered the hull of the first ship, she hit the launch, letting her own weapon fly. It was a direct hit, disabling the vessel immediately upon impact. “One down, one to go,” she mumbled, turning her ship around to set her sights on the other. To her surprise, the second ship wasn’t where she expected it to be. She tightened her grip on the controls, watching the monitors carefully. The sensors were chirping loudly, letting her know that the enemy was somewhere nearby, and was locked in on her location. “Where is he, Captain?” the voice came over the intercom. “You have to find him.” “You don’t think I know that?!” Kira snapped. The front, rear, starboard, and port cameras were showing no signs of the ship that was causing her sensors to go crazy. That only left one option.

“I’ve got you,” Kira said under her breath, pulling her ship up suddenly and repositioning it quickly to the side. Just as she did, the ship came into view. The vessel had taken evasive action of its own, diving down quickly, positioning itself below her, out of view of her cameras. It had then locked on her position and began to climb, its guns pointed at her ship’s underbelly. She steered the ship out of the line of fire just as a projectile went hurtling past her. The ship, now clearly in the line of sight of her port camera, was spinning around to square off with her. “I don’t think so,” Kira said, quickly finding the ship in her crosshairs. Before the enemy vessel had the chance to lock its guns in on her position again, she slammed her hand down on the launch button, sending a missile flying directly into the front of the ship. Just as the air filled with the orange glow of the explosion, her monitors switched off and the viewscreen went blank, encasing her in darkness. As the ship shuddered to a halt and the lights came on around her, Kira let out a sigh of relief. Her hands still gripping the controls, she leaned her head back against the headrest as the ceiling of the makeshift cockpit popped open. “I don’t usually give out perfect scores,” her Field Training Officer’s voice rang out over the intercom, “but I would be hard-pressed to find something to criticize about that performance, Cadet. Although, I could have

done without the snappy tone.” Pushing herself up out of the seat, she shot a confident smile in his direction. “You taught me to be a strong, confident leader, sir. I was just showing that I could do that,” she replied. Although she couldn’t see him, she knew where he was—seated in his usual spot just behind the one-way mirrors lining the far wall of the simulation room. “I don’t think anyone had to teach you how to be strong or confident,” he replied. “So,” she said, not ready to begin celebrating just yet. “Does that mean…?” “It means you’ve officially passed your last test, Cadet —or should I say—Captain Winter,” he said, his voice booming with pride. “Hell yes!” she exclaimed as she jumped down from the large, white, boxy flight simulator. Just as her feet hit the floor, the heavy metal door in the corner of the room went flying open, slamming back against the wall forcefully. In the blink of an eye, the room filled with the bustle of excited bodies, all crowding in towards her. They had been watching her last simulated flight on the monitors hanging just outside the simulation room. It was common practice that a public audience was allowed to attend a cadet’s final test. That way, the celebration could start immediately upon receiving her final mark.

She scanned the faces, recognizing most of them as her fellow Academy cadets. Her parents were there, mixed in with the crowd, trying to push their way towards her, with her sister close on their heels. “If I can have your attention,” her Field Training Officer’s voice rang out, causing an anxious calm to fall over the crowd. He was no longer behind the glass. Now, he stood in the doorway, his tall frame easily hovering over the mass of people. Everyone turned to look at him as he walked into the room. The crowd parted as he made his way towards Kira, a satisfied grin spread across his face. “Kira Winter,” he said when he reached her. “It has been my honor to train you these last four years. You have always been an exemplary student, going above and beyond what was asked of you. You are a quick learner and a great pilot. I have no doubt that you will make the Terran Alliance Forces proud with your service.” Reaching into his pocket, he revealed a small, golden pin. Although it wasn’t large in size, it was immense in meaning, especially for her. It was her badge, her title, the symbol of her first official ranking in the T.A.F.—it was everything she had ever wanted and everything she had worked so hard for. She beamed with pride as he fastened the golden wings to the collar of her uniform. Her eyes once again flitted around the room, scanning the faces in the crowd. They were the faces of people who had supported her through the grueling training process, the faces of all the

people who had stood by her from start to finish. As her Field Training Officer pulled back, patting her firmly on her shoulder, her eyes landed on one specific face in the crowd—Ryker Dune’s. Lieutenant Dune was her Combat Training Officer, specializing in hand-to-hand combat. He had previously served as a member of the Terran Alliance Special Forces, the most prestigious of all the T.A.F. units. He began working at the Academy during her second year in training when an injury he sustained while out on a mission left him “temporarily unfit for battle.” There had always been a sort of unspoken tension between them. Kira felt it from the beginning and she knew that he did, too. But, the fact that he was her superior had always overshadowed them. Now, though, as she watched him walk confidently in her direction, she had a feeling that that divide was growing smaller as the distance between them lessened. “Captain,” Ryker said, pushing his way through the crowd and extending his hand to her. “Lieutenant Dune,” she replied, slipping her hand into his. Although he was 28-years old, six years older than her, he had a boyish look about him. If it weren’t for the faint ripple of scars etched his right temple and cheek from the accident that had taken him temporarily out of the Special Forces, there would be no trace of age or experience on his face. Even his large frame and muscular build didn’t make-up for his childlike features.

His thick, dark black hair was always messy, and there was a hint of mischief buried beneath his stern, serious countenance. “You did it,” he said with a crooked smile. “You trained, worked your ass off, and rose to the top of your class. And, I’m proud to say that I got to be a part of what I know will be an amazing success story for the Terran Alliance Forces.” “Someone is full of compliments today,” she replied quickly. “That’s a nice change.” Although there had been some level of attraction passed between them during her training, Ryker had always been exceptionally hard on her. She didn’t mind, though. She took it as a challenge; it drove her and pushed her to work and train harder. “That’s not the only thing that’s changed,” he said. “Your status has changed as well. You’re no longer a cadet in the Academy.” “Oh,” she said, with a sarcastic gasp, “is that why all these people are here staring at me?” Ryker smiled and ran his fingers through his hair. He kept his eyes focused on hers as he continued, “I mean, you’re no longer my student. And, that means, that there’s nothing standing in the way of my asking you out.” “Except maybe this extremely awkward situation,” she said, looking over his shoulder at the mass of faces lining

up to congratulate her. “Everyone is looking at us.” His gaze didn’t follow hers; it remained glued to her face. “Are they? I hadn’t noticed.” “Well, they are.” “Then why don’t we continue this conversation later tonight, in a more private setting—I’ll prepare dinner for us in my quarters.” The thought of being in a Training Officer’s private quarters made Kira’s pulse quicken. Just five minutes before, it would have been breaking the first cardinal rule of the Academy—no relationships between officers and cadets. But, she wasn’t a cadet anymore. She was a captain in the Terran Alliance Forces. The realization quickly pushed all doubt and insecurity from her mind, replacing those feelings with pride and confidence. “If that will keep you from holding up the line, I guess I’ll accept,” she said playfully, not letting the rush of excitement she was feeling come through in her voice. Ryker cocked his head to the side, smiled, and nodded. “I’ll see you at 1800 hours then, Captain Winter.” She nodded quickly as he turned to walk away. Watching him go, she couldn’t keep the smile from her lips. Everything seemed to be coming together. Her career was on track and clearly, she was crossing the chasm between cadet and captain seamlessly.

Her gaze followed him as he turned the corner, leaving the room. Just as she was about to turn to search for her family in the crowd and continue letting the moment of celebration wash over her, something caught her eye. Something that made the smile quickly fall from her lips. She didn’t need to see the ranks sewn into his uniform to know who he was. What he was doing at her pinning ceremony, though, was what confused her. Colonel Baron Grimm was the Special Forces’ most well-known commander. She had seen his face on broadcasts, his icy stare piercing through the holographic images with an intensity that demanded instant respect. And now, those glassy eyes were fixed on her. A chill ran up her spine as he pushed through the crowd, making a beeline in her direction. CHAPTER TWO Although Colonel Grimm would have been able to push himself to the front of the line with ease, he hovered back slightly, giving her time to exchange greetings and celebratory embraces with her family and friends. All the while, though, she could feel his eyes on her. When the crowd died down, and the excitement began to wane, she turned her attention to him. Swallowing hard, she extended her hand and walked in his direction. “Colonel Grimm,” she said in the most respectful tone she could. “I’ve heard so much about you.”

The Colonel looked at her hand for a second that felt like it lasted an hour before returning the gesture, shaking her hand with two quick, firm flicks of his wrist. “I’ve heard a lot about you as well, Captain Winter.” His voice was heavy and matched his demeanor perfectly. For a man in his 40s, Colonel Grimm was in impressive shape. With his broad shoulders and notable height, he towered over her. His dark black hair was showing signs of graying, the lighter wisps most predominant around his temples. His eyes, dark and black, continued to bore into her. She never felt so intimidated in her life. Not sure how to respond, she quickly pulled her hand back and let it fall silently to her side. “I have been following your progress since you joined the Academy. You are a very impressive pilot,” Colonel Grimm continued. “I would like to offer you a position, working with me in the Terran Special Forces.” Despite her efforts to stop it, her jaw dropped open on its own accord. The offer was unheard of. No one had ever been recruited to the Special Forces directly following their graduation from the academy. Ryker held the current record for being the youngest member of the elite group to be recruited. He was sought out after only two years of service in the T.A.F. “I…,” she stuttered. “That would be… I mean…” Her face burned red as she tried to form the words. “I would be honored,” she spat out finally.

He nodded and began, without hesitation, to give her a list of instructions. She tried to remember them all, mentally taking note of each word he said. It happened so quickly and left her mind reeling. “And then he just walked away,” she said, recounting the events to Ryker later that night at dinner. “That was it. There was no swearing in ceremony, there was no official process or anything like that.” She pushed a strand of her long dark hair back from her face as she leaned forward, recounting her unexpected encounter with the Special Forces Commander. Usually, she wore her hair tied back, but she decided to do something different for her night with her former Training Officer. She had even gone as far as to dab some eye shadow on, a light blue color she felt made the blue in her eyes really stand out. He smiled and nodded. “Yeah,” he started, “Grimm is an interesting person. A lot of times, when it comes to him, official circuits don’t really matter. His word is as good as any official T.A.F. contract.” She suddenly realized that her pestering need to talk about the events in her life may be insensitive to the man sitting across the table from her. He had been out of the Special Forces for nearly three years. Perhaps hearing of her recruitment into the elite group bothered him. “I’m sorry,” she said, dropping her gaze to the pile of food in front of her. “I shouldn’t be talking about this when you…”

“Don’t worry about it,” he cut her off, waving his hand in the air. “Honestly, I’ll be cleared for service again in no time. Hey, we may even be working together someday. Wouldn’t that be an interesting twist?” “It certainly would.” “Really, Kira, I’m happy for you. I’m proud of you. You deserve this. You’ve worked so hard for this,” he insisted. For the first time since she entered his humble living quarters, the reality of where she really was sunk in. Embracing the moment, she let herself relax. She pushed the thoughts of Grimm and the Special Forces from her mind. For the first time in years, she didn’t think about training or work or the T.A.F. She settled back into her chair and smiled at him. “This is delicious,” she said as she turned her attention to the food in front of her. “I put a lot of work into it. I wanted to make a good impression on our first date.” “Date, huh? I don’t remember agreeing to any date. I simply agreed to a meal—a free meal,” she replied, cocking her head to the side. He grabbed onto the sides of his chair and scooted it around the table, positioning himself next to her. His close proximity made her stomach once again flutter, and the food in her mouth suddenly lost all taste. She turned

to face him, eyeing him suspiciously. “You know as well as I do that this is a date,” he said, reaching his hand on and resting it on hers. “I’ve been waiting to ask you out for a long time.” Kira was always uncomfortable in these types of situations. It wasn’t that she had never given any thought to having a relationship. It was simply that she had never had time to invest in one. There were always other, more important, things on her mind. But, in that instant, she couldn’t help but let herself intertwine her fingers with his. She couldn’t help but let herself entertain the idea of beginning something more with him. “I’m glad you did,” she replied, unable to keep the girlish smile from tugging at the corner of her lips. Her heart quickened as he leaned in. Her hands started to shake, and she was sure that he could tell that her palms had suddenly become sweaty. The closer he got, the more she felt her chest tighten. She was just about to lean in with him, to press her lips to his, when something caught her attention out of the corner of her eye. It was the holographic clock illuminating the wall just above the dining room table. What caught her attention were the numbers changing from 21:59 to a rounded off 22:00. “Damn it,” she said, pulling back from him quickly. “I

didn’t realize how late it’s gotten.” “Seriously?” he asked, sounding slightly annoyed. He craned his neck around to check the time. “It’s not that late,” he said turning back to her. She pushed her chair out and gave him an apologetic look. “I have to go. I’m sorry. But, I have to be at training tomorrow early, and…” “It’s fine,” he said, standing to his feet and holding his hand out to her. “I remember how I was before my first day of Special Forces training, as well.” “You’re not mad?” she asked as she slipped her hand into his and allowed him to pull her up to her feet. “Not at all. Your dedication is one of the things that first attracted me to you.” “Good,” she replied with a wry smile, “because that’s one thing about me that’s never going to change.” CHAPTER THREE Training was grueling. It was more than grueling—it was relentless, never-ending, keep-moving-until-youphysically-can’t-anymore torture. Every muscle in her body hurt after the first day. By the second, she was certain she would pass out before the first hour was even finished. And by the third day, she was convinced that all she was doing was making an utter fool out of herself.

Everyone else she was training with had been in the Special Forces for a while. They were used to the pace and the seemingly impossible expectations. They didn’t flinch when Grimm hovered over their shoulders, screaming down at them as they went through one circuit then the next. They didn’t bat an eye when he ordered them to push through one-two-three more miles of what could only be considered all-out sprints. Even flight training was on another level. The simulations contained up to five times as many opponents as the ones in the Academy did. The virtual ships she was commissioned to fly through the holographic onslaught of attacks were out of date—on purpose. She was forced to rely solely on her instincts as a pilot, not on the advanced technology of top-tier military spacecraft. Watching her colleagues motivated her. She wouldn’t be left behind. She wouldn’t fall short. She was just as good as them. Or, at least, she would be one day. She just needed to stay focused. She just needed to push herself a little further, try a little harder, and concentrate a little more. Still, all the mental pep-talks she had given herself during the first few days of training quickly dissolved when Colonel Grimm asked to see her in his office on the afternoon of her fourth day with the Special Forces. Whatever sense of confidence she had was quickly shattered. He was going to kick her out.

He was going to tell her she wasn’t cut out for the Special Forces. She just knew it. She knew he was going to expel her, to send her away with nothing more than a feeling of complete personal defeat. “Come,” Colonel Grimm said when she knocked softly on his partially opened door. She stepped into the room, slowly. Her heart sunk deeper with each dejected step she took. The starch white walls seemed to lean in towards her, pushing her towards the dark, box-shaped chairs positioned in front of Grimm. She took her seat without speaking. She waited, waited for the words to come out of his mouth. “I have to say, Captain Winter,” he started. She held her breath as she prepared for the blow. “I’ve been very impressed with you these last few days.” “I’ll try harder, sir. I’ll… wait,” she stuttered instinctually as she realized she was reacting to the words he had said in her mind but didn’t actually come from his mouth. “You’ve been what?” Grimm smiled as he leaned back in his chair. It was an awkward look for him—a smile. It didn’t seem to fit on his face. In fact, it seemed as if it was painful for him to even attempt the gesture. “You’ve done well,” he said. “You’ve done very well.”

Even though his words were meant as compliments, they were still stern and harsh. He sat across from her, his arms crossed over his chest. The large, black desk separating them held only one, lone holo screen. Kira had to keep her eyes from darting around the room. The sterile feeling of the place reminded her of a hospital, not an office. Everything was pristine and in order. Not a speck of dust in sight; not a single object out of place. “Thank you, sir,” Kira replied, letting out a soft sigh of relief. “I didn’t just call you in here to inflate your ego,” Grimm continued. “Since you’re only a recruit, I would like to extend an invitation as opposed to an order.” “An invitation?” “Yes, to join me and a group of selected Special Forces personnel on a highly classified mission.” As the last word, “mission,” hung in the air Kira felt her skin begin to tingle with excitement. This was it. This was what she had always dreamed of. “A highly classified mission,” the words echoed in her mind again and again. “What is the nature of the mission?” she asked, attempting to remain as professional as possible. “In short, I’m putting together a team to find and destroy an Empyrean stronghold.” “A stronghold?” Kira asked, raising an eyebrow. “I wasn’t aware that they had a stronghold.”

Empyreanism was a new, somewhat radical, religion that had sprung up in Arkadian territory. Although the Arkadians were known for their pacifist ways, in recent years, those ways had been called into question when the harsh realization that not all races shared their wellintentioned desire for a peaceful coalition within the galaxy. After a series of aggressive conflicts with the Vorian Empire, a humanoid race of anthropomorphic reptiles that terrorized every race in the galaxy, the peaceful Arkadians were forced to take up arms in an effort to defend themselves. It was during this transition from peaceful civilization to armed self-defenders that the Empyrean religion was formed. It began as a way for the Arkadians to come to terms with the things happening around them but quickly escalated to something much more. “You were not aware of it because they do not want you to be aware of it,” Grimm said with a slight huff. “But, believe me, it’s out there. The extremists have bunkered down somewhere, to work on their experiments in hiding.” “What experiments?” “What do you know of the Empyrean beliefs, Captain?” “Not much, to be honest,” Kira answered. “It doesn’t matter,” Grimm replied quickly, “the details are not of importance at the moment. The only thing you

need to know about Empyreanism is this—they preach that the only way to attain the highest place in the afterlife is by dying in what they believe to be the purifying light of a Supernova explosion.” “Purifying light?” Kira asked, holding in the scoff she felt building up in her throat. “How is the light produced by a star collapsing any more purifying than any other light produced by living, strong, healthy stars?” “Perhaps one day you can ask an Empyean that question yourself,” Grimm replied. “The important thing for you to know right now is that there have been rumors, murmurings if you will, that the Empyrean extremists have been attempting to create a weapon—one that has the ability to make a star go Supernova before the end of its life cycle. Surely, you can understand the danger that type of weapon would pose.” “Of course,” Kira said nodding her head emphatically. “But, is that even possible? And if they’re just rumors…” “Unfortunately, we cannot afford to be cavalier with the stakes so high. Will you join us or not?” Grimm asked sharply, cutting her off. “Yes,” Kira said, still nodding her head. “I would be honored.” “Good,” Grimm said, leaning forward and turning his attention back to the holo-screen on his desk, signaling that it was time for her to leave. “You will need to report to training tomorrow, 0500 hours, for mission briefing,” he informed her casually.

As she pushed herself up to leave the room, she gave into her desire to look around. She couldn’t help but notice the lack of personality that space had. There were no decorations of any kind to be found. She didn’t even see a picture, not one, of family or friends. It was a place of pure professionalism, just like the man who occupied it. Making her way to the locker room, she inserted her comm transmitter into her ear and had the device to connect her with Ryker. Although they hadn’t met up again since their first date, they had spent whatever free time they could find talking. And, finally, they had found a time and agreed to meet up again. Their second date was supposed to happen that night, but her new set of orders meant that she would need to get extra sleep if she wanted to be completely on her game at the unfairly early meeting the next day. “I’m sorry, again, Ryker,” she explained. “But, I have to cancel tonight.” Calling him Ryker had felt somewhat odd to her at first. She had always known him as Lieutenant Dune. But, calling the man she was seeing by his official title would have made things even odder and uncomfortable for both of them. Besides, using his name instead of his rank made the realization that they were on an equal level more real and so much more satisfying. “That’s funny,” he said, “I was about to call you to say

the same thing.” She pulled her duffle bag out of the locker and dropped it down on the bench next to her, rummaging through it for her jacket. “Really?” she asked as she searched. As she shifted the items in the bag around, her fingers grazed over her gun—a Phantom M9—the plasma pistol her parents had given her before starting her first day at the Academy. No matter how many years passed or how many different weapons came into her possession, that one would always be her favorite. “It appears that my medical leave has ended and I’m going to be returning to the Special Forces tomorrow— early.” “Good for you!” Kira exclaimed, finding her jacket and pulling it out of the bag. “Yeah, I’m glad to be back. Although, the mission I’ve been called to participate in seems unusual,” Ryker added. Kira stood up straight, still holding her jacket in front of her. “What mission?” she asked, lowering her voice. “Something Grimm is planning,” he replied, “I’m not authorized to talk about it, though.” “A highly-classified mission with a team comprised solely of Special Forces personnel?” she asked, hoping he would pick up on the hint she was trying to drop.

“Perhaps,” Ryker said, his tone teetering on playful. “Interesting,” Kira said, smiling as she pulled on her jacket. “If it wasn’t before, it definitely is now,” Ryker replied. “I should let you go then. You’re going to need your rest.” “As will you, I assume. Is it safe to say I’ll see you soon?” he asked. “I think it might be.” CHAPTER FOUR Colonel Grimm was already standing at the front of the room when she walked in, and the five faces of her new colleagues turned in her direction. Some of them glared at her as if she had arrived late. She hadn’t. She had arrived five minutes early. But, apparently, five minutes early meant ten minutes late, because everyone else in the room already had their individual tablets which contained the mission plans and details. Thankfully, there was one face slightly smiling at her. It was Ryker. He beckoned her over with a quick shake of his head, simultaneously indicating the empty seat next to him. “Now that we’re all here,” Colonel Grimm began,

eyeing Kira as she scurried forward to take her seat, “we can begin.” Once she was seated, Ryker handed her her assigned dossier. Pressing her thumb to the home button, a green light quickly scanned the fine ridges of her finger, identifying her as the device’s rightful owner. “As you will see by from the information I’ve provided you,” Grimm began, “our mission may be complicated. I am still waiting for final approval but I have no doubt that it will be coming.” Kira scanned through the information on her tablet. Most of it dealt with The Empyrean’s, the religion’s belief system, and the followers’ relationship with the Arkadians. There were a few sections which outlined Grimm’s reasons for believing that the extremist group was, in fact, working to construct the super weapon, as well as a few that dealt with the strategies he planned to implement in terms of training and preparation for the mission. At the very end of the dossier, she found an additional file. It was marked “Top Secret” and required another ID verification to be opened. Kira started down at the icon, reading the words over again. “Top Secret.” She glanced over at Ryker, but his attention was fixed on Grimm. She scrolled up quickly, deciding it would be best to wait to open that file until she was alone. It was “top secret” after all. “I should inform you all that the Terran High Command

isn’t completely on board with this mission,” Grimm said, pulling her attention towards him quickly. “They do not believe that the Empyrean’s pose any great threat. I convinced them to give me this chance to prove them wrong. They are still reviewing the information I have given them, and we will be meeting with them soon.” His face seemed to turn red, just slightly, as he spoke of the Terran High Command’s refusal to acknowledge the importance of their mission. His hands clenched into fists at his side, and his eyes fixed on a single spot on the back wall. “They do not want to see the danger that is all around us. They don’t realize that they should be dedicating more energy and support to the T.A.F. They should be working to ensure our safety and the safety of our planet and people. Instead, they are more concerned with economic interests and growing our share of the galactic market.” As he spoke, he stared intently at the single point somewhere behind them. Kira was tempted to turn around, to see if anyone was there, even though she knew there wasn’t. “But, that is why we are here,” he continued. Finally, he shifted his gaze back to his team. “We are here to protect our people, are we not?” No one answered. “Are we not?” he asked again, with more zeal.

“Yes, sir” everyone answered in chorus. “Yes, we are. And that is what we will do. We are the only thing standing between humanity and the deadly fate that the Empyrean’s wish to force on all of us. But, we will not let that happen. We will stop them, and we will destroy them.” The energy pouring out of him was contagious. Kira felt it wrap itself around her; she felt it creep up her arms and seep into her skin. She could sense Colonel Grimm’s dedication in his words. She could feel his passion and intensity, and soon, it became her own. Soon, she too was buzzing with anticipation, longing to embark on the mission to save humanity from a threat they didn’t even know existed. That was her purpose, her reason for joining the T.A.F. —to protect humanity. They stood to their feet as Grimm took his leave, the energy in the room remaining even after he was gone. As they began collecting their personal items, Kira scanned the faces of her companions—there were four men, including Ryker and one woman other than herself. She would not only be working with them; she would be depending on them, trusting them with her life. To her surprise, everyone else around her, besides Ryker, was older. The three men and one woman were all in their mid-40s. She wasn’t sure if that fact made her feel intimidated or confident. They were all clearly more experienced than she was, but she had the advantage of youth on her side.

Something about the odd group didn’t sit right with her. She didn’t have time to contemplate that, though, because introductions were quickly made. “Kira,” Ryker said, escorting her over to the group. “This is Colton, Nyx, Wes, and Rina.” She smiled and shook hands with each of her new colleagues, trying to dedicate their names to memory. Colton appeared to be the oldest, with strands of gray lacing their way through his dark black hair. Nyx had a lazy eye that he insisted didn’t hinder him one bit. Wes was the only one in the group wearing a wedding ring. And Rina, the only other woman, kept her dark black hair cut short. They exchanged small talk for a few moments, letting a familiar air fall between them. Their time was cut short, however, at the realization that they needed to head out to their respective training groups. As she began to follow the others out, Ryker stopped her, resting his hand on her shoulder. “Hey,” he said, pulling her back softly. “I didn’t expect to see you here,” he said playfully. “Looks like my assumption that we would be working together one day turned out to be right—although, I will say, this is a little sooner than I had anticipated.” “It’s a good thing, though, right?” she asked, noting a slight hint of disappointment in his tone.

“Yeah,” he said nodding quickly. “Yeah, of course.” “Is it weird?” she asked, still picking up an undertone of uncertainty in his words. “No. It’s not weird. Really, Kira. I’m excited about this.” He moved his hand down from her shoulder to her hand, lacing his fingers with hers. Giving her hand a slight tug, he pulled her closer to him. “Why don’t we do something tonight,” he offered. “It seems like we’re going to be swamped with work from here on out. We might as well enjoy our last day of freedom before the mission consumes every free moment of our lives.” “What did you have in mind?” she asked, tilting her head to the side and looking up at him, meeting his gaze. “Dinner again?” She wrinkled her nose and shook her head. “Dinner was nice the last time, really, it was,” she said, “but why don’t we do something a little more, I don’t know—us?” “Us?” he asked, pulling back from her slightly. “I didn’t realize that there was something ‘us’ to be done.” “You spent the last few years teaching me how to beat someone within an inch of their life,” she reminded him, “I think we’re used to things of a more exciting nature than a quiet dinner at home.”

“You did excel in my classes,” he said. “Although, it did take me wrestling you to the ground a few times for you to finally get the hang of it.” “You got me down once, maybe twice,” she argued. “And that was at least a year ago. I doubt if you could take me down again.” “You become a captain and suddenly you’re filled with confidence.” “I was able to hold my own against you long before I got my title,” she replied with a smug grin. “That settles it. That’s what we’ll do tonight, then. Looks like I’m not done teaching you lessons just yet, am I, cadet?” “Hey!” she exclaimed, cocking back her arm and preparing to elbow him in the ribs. His quick reflexes shot into action. He grabbed her hand before she could thrust her arm towards him and held it tightly. Smiling down at her, he clicked his tongue as if to show his disappointment at her failed attempt to strike him. “And you think you can get the better of me?” he asked as he leaned in slightly. “You’re just going to have to wait and see,” she replied, finding herself leaning it to him as well. This time there was no distracting her. The kiss they shared was awkward at first, the years of

not being allowed to acknowledge their attraction still weighing heavily on them both. But, as the tension decreased, and the excited knots in her stomach grew, the passion of the moment intensified. When he pulled back, her head was still spinning. Kira, always uneasy in moments of intimacy, nodded her head quickly and patted Ryker on the shoulder. “I’ll see you tonight then,” she said, stepping back and crossing her arms over her chest. He didn’t seem to mind her sudden, uncomfortably stiff actions. He simply chuckled to himself and stepped towards her, placing a quick kiss on her forehead before taking his leave. “Good job, Kira,” she scolded herself sarcastically as she collected her handful of items, “give him a pat on the back—good kiss, good kiss. Way to go!” As she reached for the tablet sitting on the chair she had just vacated, her thumb ran across the identification scanner, bringing the device to life. Picking it up, she scrolled through the information one more time, refreshing her memory and attempting to distract herself from the recollection of her clumsy, cold actions which continued to make her face burn red with embarrassment. There, again, at the bottom of the dossier, the “Top Secret” file stared up at her. Looking over her shoulder, she verified that no one was around. Pressing her thumb to the ID reader again, the folder popped open, spilling

out its contents in rapid succession. The file appeared to contain lists of coordinates and flight plans. It was the location of the mission, something Grimm had failed to mention in their meeting. Her eyes scanned quickly over the information, taking it in in small chunks. They would be traveling to a planetoid cluster located on the outskirts of the Omega Sector—the outskirts of Arkadian space. “You are to keep that information to yourself,” Grimm said, entering the room. She spun around quickly, clutching the tablet to her chest. “That intel is classified.” “I don’t understand…” “No one can know where we are going. Just one slip and the Empyrean’s may know that we’re onto them. Until we set out and the course charted in navigation, no one besides you, me, and the High Command can know our intended destination.” “Why am I being provided with this information, then?” “You’re the pilot. You need to know the course, prepare for it, perhaps. Being the Captain of a ship is an immense responsibility, Captain. But, one I feel you are worthy of.” Grimm had a way of making her feel important. It wasn’t just the things he said to her or his dryly delivered compliments, but the sincerity behind them. He wasn’t a man of many words, everyone knew that. So, what he did choose to say, he meant. “I won’t let you down, sir,” she said, feeling a renewed

sense of purpose and focus. “I expect you won’t,” Grimm replied, clicking his heels together as he clasped his hands behind his back. “I also expect to see you in the training room in five minutes.” “Yes, sir,” Kira replied, jumping into action. Hurrying out the door, her mind was focused solely on the mission. She didn’t let anything pull her thoughts away from it, not even her previous exchange with Ryker. That all-too-recent event suddenly felt very far away. She had more important things to think about and she wasn’t going to let anything detour her from her job. CHAPTER FIVE Later that night as she left the locker room and wandered into the training gym, the buzz of determination continued to ring in her ears. Her body was sore from the day of physical exertion that Grimm always demanded of his teams. Even still, the excitement of recent developments kept her going, pushing her forward, driving her to achieve more. And, at that moment “more” was showing Ryker that she was more than capable of defeating him at his own specialty. A cocky smile flashed across her face as she approached him. His back was to her. He was making it too easy. His reflective combat training gear, specially designed for practice sessions with Academy recruits, shone under the bright lights.

The equipment used in training was highly modified. The suits worn by participants would react to the blows thrown by the altered melee weapons while protecting the wearer from serious damage. The material was lightweight but served its purpose of protecting the students against the significantly decreased function of the handheld arms completely. Adjusting her weight to the balls of her feet, Kira zipped up the front of her combat training suit as she started into a slow jog across the thick mats separating them. Just as she was about to close the gap with a swift leap, he spun around. It was clear he had anticipated her futile efforts for a surprise attack. He stepped to the side just as she pushed herself off the ground, letting her fly into the equipment table that previously held his attention. Modified melee weapons of all kinds—plasma daggers, sonic batons, and pulse blades—scattered to the ground. Kira pushed herself up quickly, spinning around to face off with Ryker. He stared at her, his arms crossed over his chest, with a look of disappointment on his face. “I thought I did a better job with you than that,” he said, shifting his weight forward, his eyes darting to a pulse blade lying on the ground between them. Just as he threw himself forward to grab for the weapon, Kira spun around to grab hold of her own. The first thing her hand landed on was a plasma dagger. The small weapon would be effective if she could find a way

to get close enough to him to use it. Removing the dagger from the sheath sent a blue beam of energetic matter flashing around the blade. She turned back around quickly, holding the glowing knife out in front of her. Ryker’s crooked smile filled his face as he held out his blade, now glowing green with its own energy. He took a quick step in her direction, letting the blade of his weapon come down in one swift motion. Kira was able to sidestep the blow, but just barely. She spun on her heel as she darted quickly to her right. Again, Ryker lifted his weapon to prepare to strike. He swung once more. And again, she slid out of the line of the attack. She continued to cling to her dagger tightly, waiting for the moment when she would be able to get a blow of her own in. He lifted the blade again. His movements were becoming more open, more exaggerated. He was getting cocky. She let him swing it one more time, watching it fall just to her side as she took another quick step to her right. His excessive force caused the blade to fall closer to the ground. This was her chance. Just as the range of his swing reached its peak, she planted her weight on her left foot and swung her right around, pressing her heel down on his wrist, causing the sword to go flying from his grasp and skidding across the ground, just out of his reach.

“You had to see that coming,” she mocked as she pulled herself back and faced off with him again. “I just wanted to give you a little confidence boost,” he remarked, his eyes darting back in the direction of the now disheveled weapons table. As his gaze shifted off of her, she took advantage of the moment and thrust herself forward, the dagger pointed directly at the center of his chest. Just as the blade was about to make contact with his suit, he reached his arm around and grabbed onto her wrist, twisting it sharply. She held in the cry of pain that pushed its way up to her throat and opted instead of an irritated grunt as her weapon dropped out of her hand and landed with a muted thump on the matted floor. Both of them unarmed now, and Ryker still holding tightly to her wrist, she pivoted around and lifted her knee, sending a firm blow directly into his stomach. He buckled forward just slightly, keeping his fingers wrapped around her forearm. Before he straightened back up, he twisted her arm around again and lifted her off the ground, flipping her over his head and throwing her down onto the mat behind him. In a flash, he grabbed onto her dagger and leaned over her, pointing it down at her, letting the blade hover just inches from her face. He smiled down, assuming he had come out victorious. She had other thoughts in mind, through.

Twisting her body around, she wrapped her knees around his ankle, pulling him to the ground next to her. The dagger once again flew through the air, landing just a few feet away. She pushed herself up quickly, scooting forward to grab it. Ryker reached out and grabbed onto her hand, pulling her back to him, simultaneously twisting her arm around and sending a bolt of pain surging up to her shoulder. “Ah!” she cried out, buckling under the strain of his grasp. “Shit,” he muttered, releasing her quickly and pushing himself back. “Are you okay?” She looked over her should and grinned. “Perfect,” she replied just as she darted forward and grabbed hold of the dagger. Once it was firmly in her possession, she spun around again and stretched out, sending it into his gut. The blade, extremely blunted, didn’t pierce through the combat training suit he wore, but a bright red simulated glow began to spill out of the space around the blade— the sign that he was defeated. He looked down at the holographic stain then back up at her, an expression of disbelief on his face. He grabbed onto her wrist and lowered the blade. “That’s not fair,” he said. “Why not?” she asked, feigning confusion.

“You can’t pretend to be hurt just to get me to give up.” “You didn’t have to give up just because I was hurt,” she countered. He leaned forward, his eyes fixed on her. They were both still seated on the mats, and the tension of the fight had somehow gotten mixed up with a rush of sudden excitement that spread through her as he inched his way closer to her. “I was worried about you,” he said as he pressed his lips gently to hers. “That’s your problem,” she replied as she pulled back from him. “Clearly that made you weak.” He shook his head as he crossed his legs in front of him. She matched his posture, leaning on her hands as she caught her breath. “You never cease to amaze me, Kira.” “I am pretty amazing,” she replied with a sarcastic huff of confidence. “You are,” he said, leaning forward and resting his hand on her knee. “Look how far you’ve come in such a short time.” “It’s not that big of a deal,” she replied. “It is,” he said emphatically. “You beat my record of

being the youngest person to be recruited into the Special Forces.” “Try not to be too bitter about that,” she quipped, once again noting the disappointed undertone in his voice. “I’m not,” he said with a shrug. “I’m happy for you. And, hey, we get to work together on this mission, right? That’s a good thing.” “Yeah.” “How are you feeling about your first official mission? Nervous? Excited?” “A little of both I guess,” she replied. “How do you feel about the whole thing?” He leaned back again, taking his hand from her knee and using it to prop himself up. “On the one hand, I’m looking forward to it. It’ll be nice to be out again. But, I’m slightly frustrated with Grimm. I’m not going to lie.” “Frustrated with Grimm? Why?” “He’s pulling rank and keeping us in the dark,” Ryker explained. “We don’t know how long we’ll be gone. We don’t even know where we’re going.” “I’m sure he has his reasons,” Kira replied, trying to act casual. She shuffled around, preparing to push herself to her feet when he reached out again and set his hand on her knee heavily.

“That’s it?” he asked. “You’re not at all upset about it, even just a little?” “Why would I be?” “The rest of us are,” he said, eyeing her suspiciously. “It’s hard to make preparations for something when you don’t even know exactly what you’re supposed to be preparing for.” “We know the nature of the mission. We knew what we’re getting into. I don’t see what else needs to be discussed.” She brushed his hand off of her knee and pushed herself up. He stood to his feet in one quick movement and crossed his arms over his chest. “You know, don’t you?” She didn’t answer. “Kira,” he said firmly. It sounded almost as if he were scolding her. She looked at him with an expression of annoyance painted across her face. “If you know something, you have to tell me.” An unwitting scoff escaped her lips. “I don’t have to tell you anything,” she replied sharply. “Besides,” she added, “there’s nothing to tell.” “You may be a good combat pilot and a hell of a grappler, but you’re a shit liar,” he said harshly.

She rolled her eyes and turned to leave. “It’s getting late,” she said as she began to walk away from him. “It’s not right for him to give you special treatment like that,” Ryker called out after her. She stopped and sighed, already exhausted by the conversation. “It’s not special treatment,” she said, spinning around slowly. “I’m the pilot. There are certain things that I simply need to know in order to do my job. I’m sure that you received some sort of personalized information in your dossier—something related to your specialization.” “No,” he said throwing his hands out at his side. “Nothing more than anyone else.” “I don’t know what to tell you, Ryker,” she said with a shrug. “Tell me where we’re going,” he replied. “I can’t do that,” she said firmly. “It’s classified, and I’m sure as hell not breaking protocol on my first mission.” She could sense that he wanted to say more, to continue to pressure her to give up the information she was provided. She walked up to him before he had the chance to, though, and pushed herself up onto her tip toes, planting a quick kiss on his cheek. “I’ll see you tomorrow,” she said, putting an end to their conversation and the night.

CHAPTER SIX Instead of knocking on the partially opened door, Kira pushed her way in with an air of confidence—an air of confidence that was completely insincere and nearly left her when Grimm looked up at her solemnly. “Can I help you, Captain Winter?” he asked, pushing himself back from the desk. His eyes burned into her, making her feel insecure and meek. Still, she kept her false mask of assurance in place as she took a small step toward him. “I wanted to speak to you about the additional file I received in my dossier,” she explained. “I believe we already discussed that,” Grimm replied dryly. “I know, sir. I just can’t help but feel that it’s strange that I was given that information when no one else on the team was.” “I explained that to you as well.” “And, I do agree that it is important that I have the information, but the others would benefit from it, as well.” “They may,” Grimm agreed with a nod, “but giving that intel to everyone could potentially compromise me and our mission.” She furrowed her brow and crossed her arms over her chest. “What benefit do you get from only telling me the

coordinates.” “It allows me to test your loyalty,” he replied bluntly. “Test my…? What?” The mask of confidence fell off and a new expression found its way to her face. It was an expression of anger and disgust. “Why would you need to test my loyalty?” she asked pointedly. “You’re new to my team, young, easily swayed, I fear. I need to know that I can count on you, Captain Winter. You have a lot of potential but if you’re going to work with me in the long run, which I hope will be the case, I need to know that you will place the T.A.F. before all else. I don’t accept less than total commitment to the mission, lives are at stake – including our own.” She opened her mouth to comment, but he lifted his hand swiftly, waving it through the air in a gesture that clearly communicated he was not done speaking. “I assume that your sudden change in feelings towards my decision is in some way linked to your relationship with Lieutenant Dune. It wouldn’t surprise me if he pressured you for the information. Ryker is an able combat operator. But, you see, he is someone I still don’t trust. That is why he was not given additional intel. But you, Kira? You I do trust—I want to trust you, at least.” “My relationship with Ryker…” she started.

“Is fine,” Grimm spoke, not letting her finish her thought. “I am not here to tell you who you can or cannot have a relationship with. But, there is one thing you need to know, something you need to understand. People will come and go from your life. Some will leave on their own accord; others will not have a choice. But, there is one thing that will always be here. Your mission. Your responsibility to humanity. There are always threats to our existence. There will always be a struggle; there will always be a need for strong, dedicated warriors who hold the line.” He pushed himself up to his feet and rested his hands on his desk, leaning in and eyeing her with a serious yet slightly somber fierceness. “Relationships are fine but they should never take precedence over your career. By dedicating your life to your job, you are ensuring that the people you care about will be able to live their lives in peace and prosperity. The only thing we can do for the ones we love is promise to protect them to the best of our abilities.” “I have dedicated my life to my career, sir,” she began, any air of confidence or anger suddenly gone. “I’ve dedicated every ounce of energy to getting this far and I want to continue to excel, learn and serve better.” “I’m glad to hear it.” He slumped back down in his chair, his attention still firmly on her. “This is a two-way street, Kira. I need to trust you, but you need to trust me as well. Everything I do, I do for a reason. Sometimes those reasons may seem questionable, but, that is where I require those on my team to trust my judgment.”

“Yes, sir,” she replied in understanding. “And in regards to the location of the mission, you will not need to keep that secret for long. This afternoon we will meet with the High Command to get our assignment’s final approval. If all goes well, we will be set for departure tonight.” CHAPTER SEVEN “If you’re trying to insult us, you’ve certainly done it,” one of the High Command members said as they walked into the room. He was a plump, bald-headed man with a round face and dark, beady black eyes. They had no more than crossed the threshold into the room when the expressions of every individual sitting in the high-backed chairs lining the room turned sullen. Kira and her small group marched to the front of the brightlylit but somehow still dark-feeling room. Kira could feel their eyes on them. Every member of this review panel was judging them from the instant they walked through the door. “I have to say that I do not understand the grounds for your claim,” Grimm replied, not dissuaded by the man’s harsh tone and accusatory words. “I count seven people standing in front of us now. Is that not correct?” “It is.”

“And how many people did you receive clearance to select?” “Five,” Grimm replied. “I say again, are you attempting to insult our intelligence? Did you think we were unable to count?” “I have four combat operators and one engineer,” Grimm explained calmly. “However, my operators cannot fight if we never arrive at the destination. My engineer would not need to ensure the mechanical soundness of a ship if that ship is not being flown. Therefore, I needed a pilot, as well.” “Yes,” the man said, nodding his head and glaring at Kira. “Let’s talk about your pilot. She wasn’t on the list of pre-approved names that we gave you to make your selections from.” “She’s a recent graduate of the Academy,” Grimm explained. “I chose her myself. I’ve been training her personally and I can say without a doubt that without her, this mission will not be successful. She is the pilot I’ve chosen, and I will not accept any other.” The man let out a huff as his eyes flitted from her over to Ryker. “And him?” he asked. “He wasn’t on the list, either.” What list were they talking about? Kira scanned the faces of her colleagues quickly. That’s when the realization that everyone except for her and Ryker was older hit her again. Sure, they were still more than

capable of completing the task presented to them. But still, she had the sinking feeling that Grimm was forced to choose them because the High Command didn’t want to dedicate too many resources to the mission. They didn’t want to endanger core assets to a mission they didn’t believe in. “Lieutenant Dune was recently reinstated into the Special Forces,” Grimm replied, referring to Ryker. “His absence won’t be noted.” She sensed Ryker tense up slightly at Grimm’s words. Even Kira felt insulted for him. “You need to lose an operator, Grimm,” the baldheaded man said firmly. “I cannot do that,” Grimm replied calmly. “It would jeopardize our mission. I need four operators—two teams of two.” “Then we cannot approve the mission,” the man replied. “I have not taken more resources from my unit than I was given permission to,” Grimm countered, not prepared to take no for an answer. “I urge you to reconsider. Despite your insistence to the contrary, this mission is vital.” The members of the ever High Command member eyed the group, carefully and with a long, drawn out air of consideration. A few leaned over to speak to their colleagues in hushed, hurried exchanges. It was clear

they were hesitant to change their minds. It was obvious that they did not believe in the mission. They didn’t even seem to believe in the team. The only saving grace they had at that point was the man leading them. Even if they questioned his motivations for venturing to Omega Space in search of a radical group they didn’t think existed, Colonel Grimm was a fierce man, with a passion and determination that was unmatched by any person Kira had met before. “We are not convinced,” the bald-headed man said finally, standing up and speaking for the entire group. “But, we know you, Grimm. We know you will not let this go. If we deny the mission now, you will be back here again in a week’s time, and the week after that, and the week after that.” Kira held her breath as she waited for him to finish. “We are approving your mission,” the man said after a long, dramatic pause. “But keep in mind that our patience for your stubborn insistence that our judgment is flawed is beginning to take its toll.” “I have taken note,” Grimm said, turning on his heel and marching towards the exit. Kira, following directly behind him, had to contain her excitement. She had to stifle the audible sigh of relief that nearly escaped when the announcement was made, but she released it eagerly once they were out of the room. “That was intense,” she said, scanning the faces around her.

Ryker wrapped his arm around her shoulders, and the others exchanged congratulatory handshakes and pats on the back. “No time for celebrations,” Grimm said firmly. “We will be leaving within the hour. Prepare your things. We will meet in the assigned cargo bay. Captain Winter, I expect you there early to familiarize yourself with the vessel.” With that, he clasped his hands behind his back and took off down the hallway, his footsteps echoing back at them. “In an hour?” Colton asked, looking at the group confused. “We knew this would be coming,” Kira replied with a shrug. “We knew we would be leaving eventually,” Rina spoke up, “but we didn’t know it would be tonight.” “Only an hour? That doesn’t give us enough time to get all of our affairs in order. What am I going to tell my wife?” Wes said, clearly flustered. “He should at least give us the night,” Ryker said, clearly annoyed. Everyone looked to Kira, waiting for her to chime in again. She couldn’t do more than shrug. “We better not waste any time standing around talking.” Ryker shot her a confused look, but the others nodded

in agreement and began walking off down the hall. “You’re not surprised about leaving so soon?” Ryker asked as he walked at her side. “Why would I be? This is exactly what we’ve been training for.” “Still, it’s sudden, isn’t it?” No. Not for her, at least. She wasn’t going to tell him that, though. It was clear he was already upset about her relationship with Grimm. “I don’t know, Ryker,” she replied. “Like I said, we always knew we would be leaving soon.” “You’re shitting me,” he said sharply. “You knew, didn’t you?” “We’re not doing this again,” she said, rolling her eyes and looking up at him, annoyed. “Why didn’t you tell me? I understand the confidential information, but this? I had the right to know!” “I just found out this morning,” she replied quickly. “I didn’t have a chance to talk to you before the meeting.” “He told you about it this morning and you didn’t call me or message me to let me know?” “I had training,” she said, her frustration coming through in her voice. “Don’t turn this into something it’s not, Ryker.”

“Something it’s not? Grimm is clearly singling you out. He’s giving you preferential treatment, giving you intel before the rest of us…” “I’ll see you on the ship, Ryker,” she cut him off, not in the mood for another pointless argument. “I don’t have time for this right now, and clearly you don’t either.” As hard as she tried to push the frustration she felt toward Ryker out of her mind, her anger continued to build as she returned to her quarters and collected her pre-packed belongings. She couldn’t help but replay Grimm’s warning in her mind. Maybe he was right. Maybe being in a relationship wasn’t the best thing for her. It was distracting her. It was pulling her focus off of her work. Even as she made her way onto the ship, finding the flight deck and slumping down into the Captain’s chair, her stomach continued to turn with annoyance at Ryker’s insistence on picking pointless fights. “Relationships are fine but they should never take precedence over your job,” Grimm’s words buzzed through her thoughts again. He was right. She shouldn’t be thinking about Ryker in that moment. She was preparing to leave for her first official mission. Her mind should be focused on that and only that. “You look so natural,” a voice broke into her thoughts. She couldn’t help but let out a frustrated sigh when she recognized it. “Ryker,” she said, spinning around in the chair. “I’m busy.”

“I know,” he said, crossing the room and standing in front of her. “I won’t be long.” He paused, waiting for her to comment on his presence, but she didn’t. She remained seated in her chair and looked up at him, making certain that her impatience came through in her expression. “I just wanted to say,” he said kneeling down and taking her hands in his, “that I’m sorry about earlier. I’m sorry that I got upset with you.” “Upset with me about nothing,” she added for him. “About nothing,” he said, smiling at her weakly. “I’m just still dealing with my own issues. You know as well as I do that the only reason I’m on this mission is because I’m not considered key personnel.” “I appreciate your honesty,” she replied, “but I’m not sure what to do with it. It’s not my fault. It’s not fair to me that you take it out on me. My success shouldn’t bother you; you should be excited for me, proud of me.” “I am,” he said emphatically. She let out a frustrated sigh. “I don’t know,” she started. “Kira, like I said, I’m here to apologize,” Ryker said. “I’ll get a hold of myself going forward,” he continued as he leaned forward and planted a small kiss on her forehead.

“Am I interrupting?” Grimm asked, walking quietly onto the flight deck. His sudden appearance startled them both. His footsteps, usually heavy and authoritative, were surprisingly light, masking his entrance into their supposedly private moment. Ryker pushed himself to his feet and spun around hurriedly. Kira, too, stood at attention, acknowledging their leader with an air of respect. Grimm continued to walk towards them, eyeing the two with a look of disappointment. Kira felt as if she were a child, caught by her father in the middle of a compromising situation. “Lieutenant,” Grimm said, addressing Ryker, “you are dismissed.” Ryker nodded and hurried out of the room, not looking back at Kira as he slid out the door. Still eyeing her ominously, Grimm paced back and forth, contemplating what he would say first. “Sir, I know you’re angry with me,” she started. “But, I don’t know why. You said that my relationship with Ryker…” “Is fine,” he said, repeating the words he had used earlier. “Which, it is. I have to admit, though. I was slightly disappointed to see that you were so easily swayed by his words.”

“How long were you listening to us?” Kira asked, her tone a little harsher than she would have liked for it to be. “Long enough,” Grimm replied. “Long enough to know that my words did little to convince you of the importance of giving priority to your career, your mission.” “My career is my priority.” “When a colleague comes to you, admitting that they are directly comparing their own value and self-worth to yours, your first reaction shouldn’t be to sympathize with them.” “Speaking openly sir, it wasn’t. Also – why not?” “If you begin to feel guilty for your own success, you will stop pushing. You will stop reaching for your goals.” “I wouldn’t give up my career just to make a guy I’ve been dating for a week feel better about himself.” “Not now, no. But what about in a year? Two? What happens when you’re being selected for missions that he doesn’t qualify for? What happens when you’re advancing through the ranks, and he’s stuck in the same position he is right now?” “Why wouldn’t Ryker advance?” “That’s not your problem!” Grimm said, slamming his fist down onto the armrest of the chair. “You shouldn’t be asking that question, Kira! You shouldn’t care.”

“Sir, how can I simply not care?” “Like we discussed, relationships should not be your main concern. Your private life cannot affect your professional life.” “Sir, how does concern for Ryker being held back affect my personal life?” “Directly, it doesn’t. But, it’s only a matter of time. One day your success will drive a wedge between you two. He’s already expressed that seeing you succeed is an irritant. He’s already shown agitation that you’re being trusted with sensitive information and he is not.” “What do you think?” Grimm asked, sitting back in the chair the way he always did in his office, with an air of authority. Even there, on the flight deck—her domain— his actions showed his clear confidence and superiority. He didn’t give her a chance to answer, which was probably a good thing because she wasn’t prepared to admit that Ryker may have been right and she had been given special treatment by Grimm. “I selected you because I have faith in you,” he continued. “I see you doing great things, Captain Winter. But, if you are more concerned with keeping your relationship sound than focusing on your job, I may have been wrong about you.” “I don’t see you giving the others the same speech,” Kira replied.

“Oh I have, but few listen. I single you out because most others don’t have your potential. But, you have to refuse to let emotional ties hold you back from achieving that potential.” He took a deep breath, for a brief instant showing some sign of emotional weakness. It was gone as quickly as it had appeared, though. He straightened his back and turned his focus from her to the lighted panels spread out around them. “I had to learn at a very young age that people in my life will come and go and that the galaxy is a very dangerous place, filled with adversaries. I learned these things when, at the age of twelve, I lost both of my parents.” Kira was surprised at how matter-of-factly he spoke. Twelve years old was long ago for him, but still. Losing both parents would have a lasting impact on anyone. “They were both scientists, working with a mining vessel stationed at a Terran star system located on the edge of Bravo space,” Grimm continued. “The resources they were excavating were extremely valuable. As I’m sure you know, that area of space is one that the Vorian Empire has its eye on. Things were no different back then. The mining vessel was attacked by the reptiles, all members of the mining team were executed, and the ship along with the goods it had gleaned was taken.” Kira was beginning to feel awkward. Why was he telling her this? Why was he recounting episodes from

his past to her, the pilot he had recruited only a week before? “What did the High Command do?” Grimm continued in somber reflection. “They sent a convoy, of course. But, did they make it their mission to tear down the Vorian Empire? Did they seek revenge for the lives lost? Did they take on the responsibility of exacting justice?” A heavy silence fell as he turned to face Kira, his eyes red and his hands clenching tightly into fists. “No?” she replied. “No!” he replied, slamming his fist down on the armrest of the chair. “They retrieved their resources and turned their attention once again to expanding Earth’s economic interests through the galaxy. They don’t care about the threats that are out there. They know they’re there, but they trade lives for credits with no regard!” “The High Command only cares about resources,” she repeated. “Sir, can you tell me again what all of this has to do with my relationship with Ryker?” “It’s not just him, Kira. It’s with everyone. Your life’s purpose here is to protect humanity from the enemies that High Command refuses to rid the galaxy of. If you’re going to do that, you have to dedicate your life to your career, your race, your planet—not just one person.” He inhaled deeply, letting his words hang in the air. Kira’s mind was still processing them. For a man of few words, he certainly did have a lot to say on that specific

topic. She remained speechless as he pushed himself up and began walking to the door. Just before exiting, he stopped. Without turning to face her, he added, “I don’t want you to suffer the way I did. You and I are a lot alike, Kira. We both care too much. But, if we channel those emotions into our work, we will be not only successful but fulfilled, as well.” With that, Grimm stepped out of the flight deck leaving Kira alone. Once he left the room, Kira turned her attention back to her work. She contemplated his words, knowing that they were spoken out of a place of sincerity. She appreciated his concern; she felt inspired by him. She wanted to show him that she could give her life to her job; she wanted to have the same fire and passion for her work that Grimm did. Nodding her head firmly, she entered the ignition sequence for the engines. No matter what was going on with Ryker, she had a mission to complete. She had a job to do and she sure as hell was going to do it well. CHAPTER EIGHT The journey lasted roughly a week. During the time on the ship, Kira’s life assumed a sort of routine. When she wasn’t on the flight deck she spent her time training. Even though she wouldn’t be disembarking with the combat teams, she wanted to make sure she was still on her game, in case the worst of the worst did happen. In the evenings, she ate dinner with Ryker. Their relationship had once again resumed a somewhat

comfortable feel. The only times he ever showed any signs of uncertainty were when she would meet with Grimm, alone, to go over fight plans, study the planetary mass’ topography to search for a safe place to set the ship down or map out a quick escape route in case that the situation called for it. She knew it was hard for Ryker to not make any comments about her apparent status as Grimm’s righthand. She knew it was harder for him than it was for the others because of exactly what Grimm had said—their relationship. But, he held to his word and kept his mouth shut. Although, as the week went on, the time they spent together became slightly shorter, and the goodnight kisses slightly more forced. She didn’t let it bother her, though. The beginning of a mission was no time to divert her attention to frivolous things like that. Finally, the day came. The planetoid they suspected housed the Empyrean’s laboratory was in full view. It would only be another hour before they landed and the combat team would be deployed. “We need to move quickly,” Grimm explained. Everyone had gathered on the flight deck, given that Kira was unable to pull herself away from her onboard home. The closer they got to their intended destination, the denser the asteroids floating around them became. Auto-pilot would do no good navigating through them. She had to remain at the controls to guide them through manually. “They will quickly detect our presence if they aren’t

already aware of it. Ryker and Nyx, you two will go first. Clear the area immediately surrounding the ship. Colton and Wes will follow after. I will take up the rear. Kira and Rina will remain onboard. Your combat suits are equipped with communications and video relay. The messages will be sent directly to Kira here on the flight deck. She will monitor our movements, and at the first sign of trouble, she will prepare the ship for a quick departure.” “Rina,” Kira spoke up keeping her eyes locked on the viewscreen in front of her, “you will stay in the control room during this time. If for any reason a repair or alteration needs to be made to the ship, I want you there, ready to act as quickly as possible.” “Is everyone clear on their objectives?” Grimm asked, clasping his hands behind his back like he so often did. When no one objected, he turned to Kira and nodded. She glanced up at him and returned his gesture, before once again turning her full attention to the task of guiding the ship safely through the space debris that surrounded them. Taking the ship down slowly, everyone crowded in to get their first glances of their destination. It was a desolate place, with a very thin atmosphere that would require those venturing off the ship to wear contained combat suits to prevent suffocation. The dark, starspotted sky stretched out around them, blanketing the yellow and brown crater-filled landscape with an ominous overtone. “There,” Grimm said, pointing to the mouth of a deep

cavern as it came into view. Kira nodded in agreement. The opening of the cavern was barely large enough, but with careful precision, she guided them in without so much as nicking a wing. “We’ll be on the ground in ten, nine..” Kira began counting down. As she did, the others around her sprang into action, quickly preparing their equipment and marching out the cargo bay door. They were gone before she reached “one.” Keeping her eyes glued to the screens surrounding her console, she watched as the hatch descended slowly. Out ran Ryker, followed quickly by Nyx. No more than fifteen seconds later, Colton and Wes emerged. As they stepped out into the dark cave, their communication equipment began relaying data back to the flight deck. The screens surrounding her illuminated, one by one, until the entire control panel was filled with images of nothing but black with an occasional speck of light twinkling in the distance. The last person to disembark was Grimm. He was a good hundred yards behind the others, his camera’s feed picking up their movements in the shadowy expanse. The speakers around her crackled as the audio feed from the various receivers began to spill through. It was a jumbled mess of breathing and the combat operator’s equipment. Kira noted herself holding her breath as she kept her eyes glued to Ryker’s camera feed. He was leading the group and the closest to approaching the faint white light

which was growing brighter up ahead of them. It was clearly an inorganic, artificial light source. What started as a small glowing dot was quickly expanding out to illuminate her screen. She could sense the tension rising between the group as the sounds of their breathing became heavier and tighter. Kira shifted her gaze from Ryker’s screen to the one next to it, then to the next, then to the next. For the most part, all of the images she saw were the same. They were all pictures of dark, black cave illuminated solely by the same single point of light they were all slowly heading toward. She scanned the screens, again and again, waiting eagerly to see what they would find, wanting them to find something, but fearing that very thing at the same time. “Wait for a second,” she said, leaning in and peering at one of the screens. It was the camera attached to Grimm’s suit. He was still seventy-five yards behind the rest of the group. Just ahead of him, in the far corner of the screen, she saw something. She was sure she saw something. “What is that?” she asked, peering closer at the image. Just as she reached for the call button to direct Grimm’s attention to the shadow hovering in and out of the frame, the image became suddenly clear. Her blood ran cold as her hands froze with fear. Someone—or something—was following them.

She fumbled nervously, trying to find the comm, but her nerves prevented her from getting there with any speed. Finally, her fingers landed on the button. Her eyes still glued to the screen, she pressed down on the small, red transmitter. “Captain, what is it?” Grimm asked. She started to respond, but before the words made it past her lips, something grabbed her from behind. The massive, green-tinted arms wrapped around her tightly, squeezing the air from her lungs and pulling her away from the receiver with one quick motion. CHAPTER NINE Kira quickly noted that her attacker was an Arkadian woman. With her sculpted figure and imposing size, she stood nearly two feet taller than Kira. In the Arkadian race, the women were the larger sex. They were stronger, and more agile than their male counterparts, though not by much. The woman, her face rippling with scales and her glowing green eyes fixed on her target, hovered over Kira with an air of superiority. Her lips twisted into a grotesque smile, furrowing ridges into her leather-like skin. As she moved slowly, the lights of the ship reflected off of her pale green body, completely void of hair, and partially covered with roughly constructed armor. Watching her assailant from the spot on the ground

where the Arkadian woman had tossed her effortlessly, Kira calculated her movements. She was prepared when her attacker turned to her side, lifting her leg with one swift movement, ready to bring it down in the center of Kira’s chest. Shooting to the side quickly, Kira reached up and grabbed hold of the woman’s calf, throwing it out so that the Arkadian’s balance went with it. Thankfully, even the most graceful Arkadian was still slow and clumsy compared to an agile Terran. Kira knew that her only hope of surviving the fight would be to use her smaller size to her advantage. As the Arkadian woman went crashing down, causing the floor to shudder from the impact of her heavy frame, Kira pushed herself to her feet and bolted forward. She had just scurried forward about two feet when she felt the woman’s strong hand wrap around her ankle, pulling her back to the ground hard. Falling forward, Kira’s head crashed against the edge of the control panel. Immediately, she noted the sensation of warm liquid dripping down her forehead— blood. Not able to pay her injury any mind, she let herself fall the rest of the way to the ground, pulling her free leg up as she went. The instant her chest hit, she threw her leg back, kicking the woman square in the face. Her attacker let out a loud, growl-like cry as she released Kira’s leg. Her hands flew quickly to her face, giving Kira the chance to escape her reach.

As she sputtered forward, the blood now pouring from the gash on her head trickled down into her eyes. She tried to blink it away, but the more effort she exerted, the more the red liquid seemed to run down her face. Getting to her feet, Kira spun around just in time to see the woman shifting her weight forward, her eyes fixed on Kira and her back hunched forward, ready to spring into action. Kira waited, daring the woman to lunge at her. She waited for the right moment to side-step the attack. The stand-off was short lived. The woman threw all of her weight forward, flying across the small gap that separated them. Kira, already poised on the balls of her feet, took off. She just barely made it out of the expansive reach of the woman, who stretched her arms in her direction as she went flying past her, slamming into the wall. Kira ran, as fast as her legs would take her, towards the exit. The door was still standing ajar. She darted through it, turning just in time to watch the woman push herself off the wall and begin her slow, determined march in Kira’s direction. Her mind raced. She had to find a way to radio the group, to let them know that the ship has been compromised. Her Phantom was back in the flight deck, as was the comm. She needed to get back in there— alone. The woman continued to close the space between them. Kira stood her ground, once again waiting for the woman to lunge into another attack. She doubted the

woman would come at her with as much speed and force as she had done before, given that it was clear that Kira would be able to react and escape her advance. Still, she continued to move forward. This time, she was calculating Kira’s moves as much as Kira was calculating hers. When Kira stepped right, she stepped left. Just as the Arkadian crossed the threshold of the flight deck and joined Kira in the wide hallway, Kira took two quick steps back, pulling her assailant further away from her intended destination. She responded as Kira had hoped. Another two steps back and the Arkadian was at least five feet outside of the door. Now, it was Kira’s time to act fast, she tried to pull her adversary towards her while simultaneously rushing past her. Taking a deep breath, she leaned forward. She watched as the woman also lowered herself into the position of the poised attacker, perched on her toes, her weight over her knees, ready to thrust herself forward. Kira stepped quickly to the right, simultaneously taking two steps forward. The woman matched her steps, coming at her quickly. Stretching her right leg out, Kira pushed her weight off her toes the instant they touched the ground, throwing her left shoulder into the opposite wall. The woman flew past her, not expecting her sudden change in direction. Undeterred by the pain now radiating out of her left side and the blood that continued to trickle down into her eyes, Kira quickly leaped off her left foot and began an all-out sprint towards the door. The second she stepped through it, she slammed her palm into the sensor.

She spun around just as the heavy metal doors slid shut. The last thing she saw was the woman’s eyes, piercing into hers, as the door slammed shut between them. There was no time to relax. There was no time to celebrate her small, personal victory. Running the heel of her hand along her face, she wiped the blood from her eyes and hurried back to the control panel. She scanned the cameras, seeing that Ryker and the others were entering a room—a laboratory. The silent feeling of joy and success quickly faded when the camera attached to Ryker’s uniform panned over and a group of Arkadian scientists came into view. The woman in the hall was now throwing her body against the door, the banging rang out, matching the incessant pounding of Kira’s heart in her chest. Refocusing on the matter at hand, she pressed down on the intercom that linked the ship with Grimm, she spoke quickly. “The ship’s been compromised. I repeat; the ship’s been compromised.” Her eyes fell on Grimm’s camera’s feed. But all she saw was darkness. He wasn’t with the others. She waited, holding her breath, praying that he would respond. The woman outside continued to pound on the door. The blood pouring out of the gash on her forehead continued to seep into her eyes. She quickly radioed down to the control room.

“Rina, the ship’s been compromised. Do you copy?” “I copy, Captain. What are your orders?” “Stay where you are. Lock down the control room. Arm yourself. Whatever you do, do not let them in. They must not destroy our engines.” “Yes, Captain,” came the firm reply. Kira was about to turn her attention back to the screens when a heavy silence crept into the room. The woman outside had stopped her assault on the door. Was that a good thing or a bad thing? “It’s definitely a bad thing,” Kira muttered to herself, reaching for her bag and pulling out her Phantom, the feeling of the metal in her hands calming her instinctively. Just as she locked the action into the loaded position, an explosion rang out. The flash that filled the flight deck was blinding, and the pulsating air that vibrated out from the location of the blast nearly knocked her backward. Blinking hard, her vision slowly came back to her. Just in time for her to spot not one but three Arkadian fighters bursting into the room. “Captain,” Rina’s voice came over the intercom. “Captain, do you copy?” Kira didn’t have time to respond. Lifting her gun quickly, she set her sights on the largest of the three

invaders—the woman. Kira knew she already weakened by their recent scuffle. Squeezing the trigger, a stream of plasma energy poured out of the Phantom. Kira hit her target in the left shoulder, causing her to tumble backward, slightly. The Arkadian armor, although antiquated, was strong. It deflected a large portion of the blast, although the integrity of the material was clearly damaged. “Damn it,” Kira muttered, knowing it would take either better precision or multiple hits to take down any of her opponents. She shifted her gun’s sights to another one of the Arkadians. He stalked toward her, his icy look daring her to try to take him down. She lifted the gun higher, aiming for the spot between his eyes. As she squeezed the trigger and the pulse of energy flew forward, he moved. Not much, but just enough for the blast to surge past him. Her three invaders continued their slow march in her direction. She was cornered, nowhere to run. She lifted the gun again, this time redirecting her efforts at the woman. Another blast to her chest and her armor began to crack. Again, Kira fired the Phantom repeatedly. The woman let out a loud scream as she recoiled back. Kira saw a bright green line of blood seep through the woman’s tinted armor, although she remained on her feet. There was no time for the final shot, though. One of the men was upon her, creeping closer to her from the

right. He reached out his long, muscular arm, and with little effort at all, slapped her gun from her hand. She watched it go, inhaling sharply and pinching her eyes shut as he lifted his hand to strike her. Her eyes flew open almost immediately, though, as the sound of the Arkadian woman releasing a long, piercing cry sliced through the air. Stunned at the sound and the fact that the man hadn’t struck her, she scanned the room for the sources of the disturbance. Standing by the door she spotted Grimm. In his hands was a large assault rifle. He trained his sights on the man who just seconds before was standing at Kira’s side, but was now ducking for cover behind one of the control panels. “Don’t shoot the equipment,” she called out to Grimm as she dove to the side, reaching for her Phantom. Grimm scoffed in response, squeezing the trigger of his gun and sending the highly energized beam directly into the side of the man’s head. He fell instantly to the side, his body limp and lifeless. Kira’s ears were ringing as she clutched her gun and pointed it in the direction of the last remaining invader. “Now!” Grimm ordered as he lifted his own gun and fixed his sights on the target. Together, they fired in unison. The first shot was absorbed by his armor, but the second found its home and he toppled forward.

When he finally slumped back to the ground, Kira lowered her gun and took a long, deep breath. As her ears stopped ringing, she noted that the sounds of a struggle continued to fill the flight deck. She spun around and focused her attention on the screens lining the consoles. As she had suspected, the combat teams had run into problems. Her heart raced as she ran forward, trying to make sense of the scenes spilling out of the monitors in front of her. “They’re in trouble,” she exclaimed to Grimm over her shoulder. “No, they’re not,” Grimm said, walking up behind her and pointing to the screen connected to Ryker’s camera feed. “The Empyrean’s are, though.” She relaxed slightly as she watched Ryker take down Arkadian after Arkadian with a combination of melee tactics and blasts from his sidearm. The other members of the ground team were doing the same. “Wait,” she said, pointing to one of the screens. “That Arkadian there. He’s doing something.” Grimm leaned in and squinted at the screen. “Shit,” he muttered. Pushing past her he laid his hand into the radio transmitter and sent a message to the group. “Get out of there—now! They’re initiating the self-destruct. I repeat; get out of there now!” He turned to give his attention back to Kira, ready to yell out a command, but she was already two steps

ahead of him. She grabbed for the intercom and radioed down to the control room. “Rina, what’s the condition of the ship?” “You’re good. They didn’t compromise anything. All systems are online.” “We need the shields online now,” she ordered before releasing the intercom and pushing past Grimm to take her seat in the pilot’s chair. Without a word, she entered the initiation sequence. The engines fired to life. Both she and Grimm watched the screens, waiting for the combat teams to return to the ship. The seconds ticking by felt like an eternity, but finally, Ryker’s camera feed filled with the images of the inside of the ship and instantly switched off. Then the next, then the next. Finally, the last camera feed cut out and the monitors around her were once again filled with the flight information she needed to direct them out of the cave. Grimm flipped the switch to raise the hatch as Kira immediately lifted the ship off the ground. Grasping the controls tightly, she was forced to navigate the ship out of the cave in reverse—no time or space to turn around. The walls of the cave somehow seemed closer together than they did when she flew in, and the right wing of the vessel scraped against the jagged wall. “Damn it, Captain. Fly straight,” Grimm ordered.

“Oh, is that what I’m supposed to do?” she replied, not caring who she was talking to. Through the viewscreen, they could see the bright yellow glow of the explosion radiating out of the lab spilling through the tunnel, quickly gaining on them. “Does that count as a purifying explosion?” Kira quipped as she turned her focus to the screens linked to the rear cameras. Grimm didn’t reply. He stood, his arms crossed over his chest as he watched her work. When the sight of the star-spotted darkness came into view, Kira accelerated the ship as quickly as she could. Just as the burning yellow flames began to lick at the front of the ship, they emerged into the open expanse of space. The instant they were free of the cave, Kira pushed down forcefully on the controls, sending the ship into a downward spiral. The flames flew over them, their blast causing the vessel to shudder slightly. Spinning the ship around swiftly, she directed them away from the planetary mass just as a second explosion rang out, this time sending bits of debris raining down on them. She tightened her jaw as she pushed the ship forward, praying that the ship’s shields would stand up against the onslaught. Her eyes were fixed on the viewscreen and her entire body buzzed with adrenaline. When they had finally reached a safe distance from the source of the blast, she took a deep breath, letting the tingling feeling of blissful

anxiety surge through her one more time. The rush she felt in those moments didn’t compare to any she had ever experienced before. She laughed as she looked over her shoulder up at Grimm. “Piece of cake,” she said with a confident smile. “Good job, Captain,” he said, patting her on the shoulder. A look of fatherly pride worked its way across his face. Kira let the feeling of accomplishment settle in as she turned back to the controls and programmed in the flight path back to Earth. CHAPTER TEN “We weren’t able to collect any samples,” Wes explained as they debriefed in the ship’s common area. “But, it was clear they were working on something they didn’t want us to find,” Ryker added. “Or else they wouldn’t have blown the whole thing to hell.” Kira was only half listening to the conversation. Her attention was focused to the tablet in her hand. She had downloaded the images from the combat suits and was reviewing them. “How are we going to explain that to the High Command?” Nyx asked. “Without any evidence of anything, they’re likely to not believe us at all.” Grimm scoffed in agreement.

“Hold on,” Kira said. She squinted down at the image that had caught her attention. Zooming in, she was able to identify a log book. The words were blurry and written in the Arkadian’s native language, but she was sure that they had to contain something valuable. “Look at this,” she said, pushing the tablet across the table towards Grimm. He examined the image and nodded happily. “This might work,” he said. “And we clearly have plenty of images of the lab itself,” Colton said, leaning over to look at the tablet over Grimm’s shoulder. “Not only do we have images of the lab,” Kira said, grabbing the tablet from Grimm again and speeding up the images until she found what she was looking for. “Here in the corner of the screen, you can see this man initiating the self-destruct sequence. He’s entering something into a hidden panel under one of the workbenches. That’s evidence that they wanted to keep secret whatever was there, right?” “Very good, Kira,” Grimm said, patting her on the back. “I’ll send these images to the High Command now, along with my official report.” Kira eyed Ryker as he shot a disgruntled look in her direction.

“Everyone can relax for the next few days,” Grimm said as he prepared to take his leave. “You’ve all done well.” Kira pushed herself up and began making her way back to the flight deck. Even though the autopilot installed on the ship was reliable, she always felt more comfortable when she was behind the controls. It didn’t surprise her when she heard someone enter the flight deck not long after she arrived there. She knew who it was even before he spoke. “We need to talk,” Ryker said as he walked up behind her. She turned to look at him, an exhausted expression splayed across her face. “I don’t think we do,” she replied. She slumped down in her seat as he walked toward her, despite her previous statement. “Why did you call Grimm and not me when you were in trouble?” Ryker asked, looking at her carefully. His eyes glanced up at the sutured gash in her forehead. “You were leading the group, Ryker. You couldn’t just turn around to come to my rescue.” “I would have,” he assured her. “Then that’s a problem. You shouldn’t jeopardize the mission for me,” she said sternly. “You’re going to be angry with me for wanting to save

you?” “Yes,” she replied with a quick nod. “Our responsibility to our mission comes first. Always.” “If I were in trouble would you…?” “Don’t,” she cut him off. “Don’t ask a question you don’t want to hear the answer to.” His mouth fell open as he took a step back. “Ryker,” she said, lacing her words with soft, caring tones. “It’s not that I don’t care about you. It’s just that some things are bigger than that, you know? Our job is to protect the planet, our race, from the ever-looming threats that permeate the galaxy. We can’t afford to let ourselves become distracted by relationships.” “You sound just like Grimm,” Ryker said spitefully. She shrugged and sighed. “This isn’t working out, Ryker. I’m sorry.” His eyes went wide with surprise. “You’re breaking up with me?” “I was kind of hoping you’d pick up on that without me actually having to say it.” “You’re breaking up with me because I wanted to protect you?” “I’m breaking up with you because I have to focus on

my career right now. I can’t worry about you being jealous or insecure or doing something stupid like throwing an entire mission just because you’re worried about me.” “Fine,” he said firmly, spinning on his heel and marching out of the room before she had a chance to say anything else. “That went well,” she muttered as she spun her chair around and fixed her eyes on the open expanse of space sprawling out in front of her. “I’d say so,” Grimm’s voice wafted into the room. She didn’t turn to face him. “You were listening?” “It was hard not to,” he replied as he walked up to the co-pilot’s chair and slumped down. “I’m sorry that had to happen.” “Yeah,” Kira said glancing in his direction. “But it would have happened eventually, anyways. He was kind of an ass.” Grimm laughed. The sound was unfamiliar to Kira. That, paired with the smile spreading across his face made her feel uncomfortable. A man as serious as Colonel Baron Grimm didn’t wear cheerful well. “Sir, what’s got you all happy?” Kira asked. “I hope it’s not just my failed relationship.” “No,” Grimm said shaking his head. “The High

Command has replied positively to our mission. They concede that it was a well-founded endeavor. The entire crew will be recognized upon return.” Kira couldn’t keep the satisfied smile from filling her face. Her first mission—a success. “That’s great,” she replied. “We couldn’t have done it without you. I knew you were the right pilot. I have a feeling we will be working together for a long time, Captain Winter.”

THOR - FAR HOPE SERIES - BOOK #1 CHAPTER ONE “Captain, I’m not sure the ship can take it,” Kira’s copilot said from his seat to her right. Kira didn’t take her eye off the monitor in front of her. She could see the Rengar ship coming straight towards them, but her hands didn’t flinch on the controls. “That’s your problem, Johan,” she said calmly. “You don’t trust the ship.” “I wouldn’t call it as much a trust issue as a practical one. The rat’s vessel is much bigger than ours.” Referring to their targets as “rats” was not meant as a slight, rather a relatively accurate description of their appearance. Still, the description did capture the essence of the intelligent rodent race accurately. They truly were the rats of the galaxy—scheming and clever, dealing primarily with the black market, selling stolen goods and offering nefarious services in the Galactic Bazaar. That’s what brought Kira to this moment. A group of Rengar pirates had stolen goods from a leading political officer of the Terran Alliance, and being one of the Alliance’s leading combat pilots, she was called in to track down the ship, and lead a mission to retrieve the cargo. “That’s something we will use to our advantage,” Kira replied confidently. Reaching for the intercom, she dialed in the code linked to the bridge. “Rix,” she said, speaking

directly to the ship’s engineer, “make sure the shields are up. We’re expecting contact in ten, nine…” as she counted down, she watched the image on the screen grow larger and larger. Johan nervously clutched the throttle in his hands so tightly that his knuckles were beginning to turn white. Kira continued to count, waiting until she reached “two” before thrusting the vessel forward and sending the ship into a high-speed plummet. The Rengar ship just nicked their right wing, but with the shields up, the pirates’ Junker did little damage to the top-of-the-line Terran Alliance fighter she was piloting. Johan held his breath as she turned the ship hard right and once again began to climb, heading directly towards the belly of the enemy ship. Rix’s voice came over the intercom. “They’re lowering their guns, Captain,” he informed her. “Good,” she replied, watching for the cannons to drop out below the pirate ship. “Ready the missiles,” she ordered Johan. His hands shook slightly as he typed a command code into the console in front of him. The ship shuddered as the missiles moved to the ready position. As they continued to get closer and closer to the pirate vessel, the air in the cockpit became electric with tension. Kira loved these moments. The adrenaline that pumped through her veins, the feeling of control that overwhelmed her, waiting for the perfect moment to give

the order. “We’re getting too close,” Johan warned, ready to reach for the controls in front of him and pull the ship back. “Don’t even think about it,” Kira said firmly. “We’re almost there.” “They’re targeting us,” Rix’s voice came over the intercom again. “They won’t have time,” Kira said, moving her hand towards the missile launch switch. “Switching to weapons only control, Johan, you have the controls – try not to panic.” Training the cross-hairs that appeared on her screen to the slits from which the guns were lowering on the underbelly of the enemy ship, she inhaled sharply. Just as the large, cannon-sized barrels swiveled in their direction she hit the launch. Simultaneously, she shouted to Johan to dive. “Take us down, now!” she ordered, keeping her eyes glued to the screen. There was a blast; large enough to disrupt their flight pattern slightly, but not so large that it destroyed the Rengar ship. “Perfect,” she said analyzing the data on her console, shooting a cocky smile to Johan. “You can radio the others and let them know the ship has been disabled.

Have reinforcements sent in, and the clean-up crew sent out to retrieve what the rat’s stole this time.” Johan made the call while she relaxed back in her seat. Radioing down to the bridge, she confirmed that the remaining members of her small crew were safe. Rix, although slightly shaken, confirmed that they were. “No matter how many flights I take with you, Captain, I will never cease to be amazed by your tactics,” Johan said once he had finished the call. “I think by tactics you must mean recklessness”, Kira wryly replied. “Have I ever not gotten you home safely Johan?” She had worked with Johan on a number of occasions, although they were far from close. He was a stocky man, with the same tanned skin and dark brown eyes that were typical of almost all the Terran race. Although he was a year older than her, making him 34-years old, she was his superior, something she sensed he resented. “Not yet,” he said with a slight scoff. “But I tell my wife that if I ever don’t make it home for dinner, it’s probably because I’ve been out with you.” “God,” Kira replied, wrinkling her nose in disgust, “that could send the wrong message.” “Hey! You’d be lucky to get a guy like me; you know that?” “You may be right,” she said, raising an eyebrow, “at least I know you can follow orders. Men usually aren’t

very good at that.” Kira had been in a handful of relationship throughout her adult life. But, none of them stuck. Her success often seemed to intimidate. It wasn’t just her professional identity that left them feeling inferior, but her overall demeanor. She didn’t ever back down from a fight, and she rarely admitted she was wrong—because she usually wasn’t. On the surface, she didn’t seem to be the rough-andtumble person that she was. With a petite frame and small figure, she was often underestimated. In addition, she found that she attracted a lot of attention, more attention than she would have liked, simply because of her physical appearance. While she did share the basic qualities as the other Terran’s from her home planet Earth —dark hair and tanned skin—she had blue eyes. It was a recessive trait that had almost completely disappeared from the planet generations earlier. Today, individuals with light eyes or hair were looked at as some sort of commodity on throughout the empire. Thankfully, a strong relationship with the Telani, a race native to the planet Maelor, had somewhat quelled the fascination with the fairer Terran’s. Telani were known for their bright, blue eyes and platinum blond hair. Most Terran men would jump at the chance to be with a Telani woman. Johan’s wife was Telani, a fact he constantly bragged about. That was one of the reasons why Kira never felt the need to take it easy on her co-pilot. It was good for him to have a lesson in humility from time to time.

“Set the coordinates for the T.S.F Victory,” she ordered Johan, not giving him time to respond to her previous comment, but relishing in the satisfaction that her command simply served to prove her point. He let out a disgruntled huff as he did as she said. Just as they pulled away from the scene of the encounter, five larger Terran Alliance ships swarmed in to complete the task they had started. Smiling to herself, Kira settled back into her chair. Flipping the auto-pilot switch, she let the ship do the rest of the work for her, taking them back to the Terran forces’ flagship, where they would dock and debrief—the official end of their mission. Johan still seemed tense. Perhaps he was simply upset with her earlier comment. “Relax,” she said to him, kicking her feet up and closing her eyes. “In no time at all, we’ll be home, and getting ready to start our threeweek leave. Hopefully, that’s enough time for your hands to stop shaking.”

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