Laceeya sat in her command chair, observing as the final repair barges slowly shifted away from the warships, their tasks complete for now. The head repair technician had politely admonished Laceeya for continuously bringing her ship back in such a mess. It was hard to argue with him there. She’d been sure to thank the technicians countless times for their labor. Their hard work built the backbone of the Hand. Without functional ships, they’d be nothing.
The freshly repaired bow of the Ethereal stretched out ahead of the bridge, and the other ships of Laceeya’s task force sat waiting in the distance, some ready to officially sail as a part of her squadron for the first time. Scorched armor plating and small dents still dotted the surface of the Ethereal, but the major damage had been repaired, and it was ready for action.
After the countless battles the ship had seen, it would never be as fresh as it had been years ago when it left the shipyard. Each scar and replaced panel told a story of a battle. There likely were few places in the galaxy that experienced as much intense and constant action as the Empire of the Hand did in the Chaos, showcased by the hull of the Ethereal. The name was certainly fitting, given the nature of the vast portion of the galaxy.
Standing up from her command chair, Laceeya walked over to the viewport, gazing out at the ships of her newly expanded task force. It was a bittersweet sensation. It was a great honor to have more ships placed under her command, it was a testament to her skills and dedication and hard work, and she was proud of her achievement. Laceeya didn’t crave power whatsoever, but with a larger flotilla, she could tackle greater evils, and conceivably make a greater positive impact on the galaxy.
But there were also thousands of additional officers, crew, and pilots under her command. It was overwhelming to imagine, and it added significantly greater responsibility, an additional weight piled on her shoulders. Deeply filling her lungs, she held in the air for a moment before exhaling slowly, trying to release her fears and doubts along with her breath. It was time to go hunting. The Hand could wait for the Grysks to return, but the longer they waited the more the Grysks would be able to progress forward with whatever schemes they were up to.
As Laceeya and Ilcunor had determined, it was too risky to return to Kwenast for the moment with only her task force, and it was likewise deemed too dangerous to leave the important facility at Nyar Three with only minimal defenses. Their hands were somewhat tied in that regard, but perhaps some of the other countless systems of the region would hold more information and answers. She could only hope so.
The ships were already forming up on the vector to align themselves for the hyperspace jump. Laceeya gave the order, and with a flicker the group of warships jumped into hyperspace. Remaining at the viewport for a moment, Laceeya stared out at the tumultuous swirl of hyperspace, standing erect with her hands clasped behind her back.
The mystery of the Grysks new orbital station and their mining operation was still nagging at her. It remained in the back of her mind, and she’d been stuck ruminating on it. She considered different options for what the identity of the crystal was, and what its use might be, that the Grysks were after on the Kwenast homeworld.
But she couldn’t figure it out, despite her unwavering certainty that it was important.
Laceeya exhaled a sigh. They’d figure it out at some point. She strolled over to the rear of the bridge, stopping behind Junior Lieutenant Felayun. She monitored the navigation display over her shoulder. The task force would travel along the hyperlane for a ways, and then hop off of it to search some of the nearby systems.
Navigation there would be slow and difficult, with the ever changing hyperspace routes and hazards. But hopefully it would prove worth it.
Everything appeared normal in the first main inhabited system that Laceeya’s task force passed through.
The last leg of the journey took many hours, a painstaking process of navigating through and around a dense cluster of stars. It had required countless small hyperspace jumps, exiting to check the charts and adjust their position and vector. Their path had zigzagged and backtracked through the region, carefully finding the way through. Star clusters and shifting planets and nebulas and other obstacles forced them to blaze new trails through space. Even in a relatively short period of time, many locations in the Chaos were constantly moving, one of the many difficulties of navigation there.
Moving on to the next inhabited system in line was thankfully a relatively simple trip. The blurred stars finally focused into bright dots of light for the last time, the swirling tunnel of hyperspace replaced by the darkness of space and a planet, as the group of ships arrived. “Sensors, full scan.” Laceeya ordered, her red eyes scanning for threats.
“Yes ma’am.” Frenara acknowledged, his hands moving across his controls.
Drumming her fingers on the side of her leg, Laceeya gazed out into the space ahead of her at the distant planet. The tiny speck of the other main inhabited planet could barely be discerned against the void. The two worlds were far closer than planets in a system typically were, each planet home to one of the two species in the Renthass system, the Renthassi and Gruhjaffa. The two typically coexisted peacefully, with a thriving economy of trade and commerce.
“I’m not seeing any commercial ships or traders traveling between the planets, Commodore,” Frenara stated, his brow furrowed as he examined his display. “No ships at all.”
That was odd, Laceeya thought with a frown. Normally there was bustling trade between the two groups, ships traveling the short distance between the twin planets of Renthass and Kurlluuh, and she’d expected at least a few freighters or transports moving between them. But glancing at the sensor display, she saw nothing.
“Take us in, Apoyarp,” Laceeya said. She went over to the comm, indicating to Rikal to open a channel with the other ships of the task force. “We’re going to take a closer look. Be ready in case there’s any trouble.” The other commanders gave confirmation, and the group of ships began approaching the planet.
“Picking up a few larger ships orbiting Renthass,” Frenara reported. “But still no signs of any vessels moving between the two planets.”
“Maybe it’s just a slow day?” Shyka suggested.
“Maybe,” Laceeya said uncertainly. But she doubted it. There was always a steady stream of ships transporting supplies, passengers, or whatever else between the two worlds.
As the thrusters hummed, the multicolored green, blue, and white planet of Renthass slowly grew larger outside the viewport as the Ethereal and the other ships drove forward.
“Any details on those orbiting ships?” Laceeya asked.
Frenara pressed a few buttons on his console, peering closer at the display screen. “The largest one looks to be about light cruiser sized,” He said. “Along with a pair of corvettes and five smaller ships. Could be freighters, transports, or gunships. But they’re just hanging out in high orbit, ma’am.”
Laceeya nodded in acknowledgment. “Let me know if any of them start to move,” She said. The Hand had always had good relations with the Renthassi and Gruhjaffa in the past. They were both peaceful and amicable people, and she wouldn’t normally expect any trouble. But with all the Grysk activity in the region, and after their run-in with the Kwenast, she wasn’t sure what to expect anymore. “Rikal, go ahead and try to raise the Renthassi on the comm,” She narrowed her eyes. “I want to find out what’s going on here.”
“Yes ma’am.” Rikal responded.
Shyka twisted slightly in her seat to face Laceeya. “What do you think’s happening here?” She murmured.
Laceeya shook her head. “I don’t know,” She admitted, running her fingers along the seam of her pants, waiting as Rikal opened the comm channel. “But whatever it is, I have a feeling it’s not good.” The lack of trade activity left an ominous impression hanging over her. Something definitely wasn’t right here.
“I’ve established contact with the Renthassi, ma’am.” Rikal said a moment later, glancing up at her.
Laceeya nodded her thanks, stepping over to talk into the microphone. “This is Commodore Laceeya of the Empire of the Hand ship Ethereal,” Laceeya spoke in Minnisiat. “We’re patrolling this region looking for any signs of Grysk activity.”
“Commodore,” A deep and rumbly voice boomed over the comm. “I am Security Master Jarlegin. We have spoken on your last trip through our system.”
“Yes, that’s right,” Laceeya said. “ I noticed there wasn’t any trade going on between your planet and the Gruhjaffa.”
“That is because the Gruhjaffa recently attacked us,” Jarlegin said darkly. “We do not know why, but we have engaged in a number of battles since. We do not have a large navy, but what we have has been whittled down thanks to the Gruhjaffa’s aggression. However, we have not encountered these Grysks that you speak of.”
Laceeya frowned. That didn’t sound like the Gruhjaffa at all. She was instantly suspicious, wondering if the Grysks had instigated the conflict. They excelled at such things, after all.
“I see,” Laceeya finally said.
“Will you help us?” He asked. “We will soon be overrun by the Gruhjaffa. They possess more powerful ships than us, and though we have destroyed many of their vessels, they still outnumber us significantly. We fought off their last assault, but they will certainly return.”
Laceeya took a deep breath through her nose, pursing her lips. As the Ethereal and the other ships neared the planet, she began to notice numerous small dark spots scattered around the surface of the planet. Laceeya was shocked to realize the extent of destruction to Renthass.
“They have bombarded many of our cities, causing countless deaths,” Jarlegin said solemnly. “We did nothing to provoke such an attack.”
It felt wrong to attack the Gruhjaffa, a species that had always been peaceful, and even friendly toward the Hand and others. But looking down at the destruction caused on Renthass, even just from orbit, showed that they certainly weren’t being peaceful now, and that they had to be stopped. Laceeya felt her stomach turn from the carnage, her mouth set in a thin line. Thousands of innocent civilians must have died.
“When did this happen?” Laceeya asked, finding her voice.
“Three days ago is when the Gruhjaffa first attacked,” Jarlegin answered grimly. “They took us by surprise, as we had no reason to expect such aggression from them. They quickly destroyed our long range communications, then struck at our cities. Due to our trade relations, the Gruhjaffa are intimately familiar with the layout of our cities and facilities,” He let out a rumbling sigh. “We rushed to scramble our defenses and fight them off. Both sides lost ships in the battle, and they have attacked numerous times since, wearing down each other's forces. But they still outnumber us significantly, and I am quite certain they will soon return to finish off our defenses.”
Laceeya chewed her lower lip in concern. She didn’t want to fight the Gruhjaffa, but bombarding civilians didn’t leave her with much choice. Maybe they’d be reasonable and work to find a way to resolve the situation peacefully, but she wasn't particularly optimistic about it. Regardless of what they’d been before, they were now a threat that had to be neutralized, one way or another.
“Understood,” Laceeya said. “We’ll talk to them and see if we can defuse the situation.”
“Your assistance would be greatly appreciated,” Jarlegin pleaded, the desperation evident in his voice. “I fear for the lives of my people. I do not know why this is happening, and without your aid, we will be at the mercy of the Gruhjaffa.”
“We’ll stop them,” Laceeya promised. “One way or another.”
“Thank you, Commodore,” Jarlegin said, sounding relieved. “You are my people’s only hope.”
Laceeya signed off, closing her eyes for a moment and letting out a long sigh.
“He sounded pretty desperate,” Shyka noted grimly.
“For good reason,” Laceeya replied. “I’d be desperate too in his situation.”
“Agreed,” Shyka said with a nod. She paused, grimacing. “I wish we could’ve arrived a few days earlier and prevented it. So many lives lost.”
“Me too.” Laceeya murmured softly.
“The Gruhjaffa appeared to have targeted the most densely populated areas,” Frenara put in darkly, looking at his sensor displays. “Maximum death. Aside from their long range communications however, large industrial facilities were essentially untouched.”
“They must want those in one piece for themselves,” Laceeya said. “For whatever reason,” She sighed quietly. “I guess we’d better go try and talk to the Grahjaffa and hear their side of things,” Laceeya said. “Take us over there, Lieutenant.”
“Will do, Commodore.” Apoyarp responded.
“Captain, contact the task force and have the other ships follow.” Laceeya told Harax.
“Yes ma’am.” Harax replied with a brisk nod.
The view of Renthass began to shift as the Ethereal reoriented itself. Laceeya was taken aback by the destruction that had been caused to the prosperous world of Renthass. It was terrifying how the Grysks were able to turn such peaceful people into beings that were able to do this. Perhaps she was leaping to conclusions, assuming the Grysks were responsible. But manipulation such as this was a specialty of theirs, and the Renthassi and Grahjaffa hadn’t had any conflict such as this in centuries. What were the odds that it restarted at the same time as the Grysks were moving into the neighborhood?
“It’s hard to believe the Grahjaffa could do something like this, ma’am.” Shyka said, shaking her head. “I assume you think the Grysks are behind it?” She added, voicing what Laceeya herself was thinking.
“Yes,” Laceeya confirmed grimly. “I wouldn’t believe it either if I hadn’t seen the damage and didn’t know what the Grysks are capable of.” She racked her brain for what she knew about the Gruhjaffa. They were an extremely religious people, led by one known as the High Priest.
“What do you think their goal in doing this is, Commodore?” Harax put in.
Laceeya shrugged, shaking her head slightly. “I’d guess they’re just softening up the system to make it easier for them to move in and conquer. Why fight an allied group of two species when you can just have them tear each other apart, and then walk in and take it over when it’s defenseless.”
She chewed nervously on her lower lip as her fears of ever expanding Grysk conquest filled her mind. As a few minutes passed, the tiny dot of the Grahjaffa’s world steadily grew larger beyond the viewport as the Hand’s ships approached. “Frenara, let me know the second you see anything,” Laceeya said. “And make sure the shields are up.” She added over her shoulder.
“Yes ma’am.” Frenara and Asmaril both acknowledged simultaneously..
Laceeya glanced over the shoulders of the officers, taking in the glowing multicolored indicator lights and display screens on the consoles, checking to make sure everything was functioning properly.
“Picking up a number of ships in orbit, ma’am,” Frenara reported. “A heavy cruiser and a light cruiser sized ships, a frigate, six corvettes, and four gunships. Also a pair of orbital stations.” With all the dangers in the Chaos, most sizable nations had a relatively significant defense force, even peaceful ones like the Gruhjaffa.
“Got it, thanks Frenara. Those orbital stations should be unarmed, unless they’ve modified them since our last trip through here,” Laceeya said. She’d traveled through the system a number of times in the past on patrol, and she was familiar enough with the strength of both the Renthassi and Gruhjaffa. “Shyka, make sure your weapons crew is ready just in case.”
“They are, ma’am.” Shyka confirmed.
“Commodore, they’re launching fighters from one of the stations,” Frenara warned. “And the other ships are moving out of orbit.”
“Got it,” Laceeya said with a sigh. That was a bad sign for resolving things peacefully. “Captain Harax, bring us up to full battle readiness. Rikal, try and open a comm channel with the Gruhjaffa. But first, get me the other ships of the task force.”
“Yes ma’am.”
Stepping over beside Rikal, Laceeya spoke into the comm. “All ships come to full battle readiness and launch fighters,” Laceeya ordered. “I want to be prepared in case there’s more going on here than there is at first glance.”
They gave acknowledgment of their orders, and Rikal went ahead and began broadcasting on an open comm channel that anyone in the area would pick up. “This is Commodore Laceeya of the Empire of the Hand ship Ethereal,” She announced, again using the trade language Minnisiat, feeling her smooth alto voice naturally go into the formal and precise tone she used in situations like this. “As long as you avoid hostilities, we mean you no harm, and are hoping to understand why you attacked the Renthassi.”
The Gruhjaffa ships continued forward, not responding in the slightest to the attempt at communication.
“Can’t they see they’re outmatched?” Shyka questioned. “They’re going to get slaughtered if they try to take us in a frontal attack. We can try and shoot to disable instead of kill, but it’s not always that simple.” Despite the size of the Gruhjaffa fleet, their vessels lagged far behind the technology of those used by the Hand.
“I don’t know what they’re thinking,” Laceeya said, shaking her head. She motioned for Rikal to reopen the comm channel. “Be advised, if your ships open fire, we will fire back. This is your final warning.”
Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.
The comm stayed silent. Starfighters began to emerge from the hangars of the VSD and Quasar cruiser-carrier, forming up in flocks by their respective squadrons.
“Bring the shields up to full,” Laceeya called out. “If they initiate hostilities, try to disable their ships if possible,” Laceeya told the commanders of the other ships. “But only if you can do so without additional risk to yourselves or the fighters. Commander Khrinai, keep close to Shadow’s Bane to shield it from fighters. Captain Temana, bring the Paladin behind the other ships. All ships, move forward.”
Flashes of laser blasts began to streak through space as the approaching Gruhjaffa vessels neared combat range, and opened fire.
“Well, I guess they’re not going to listen to our warning.” Shyka muttered.
“I guess not,” Laceeya agreed sourly. “Be prepared to return fire when we’re in range. Focus all your fire on that light cruiser.”
Green bolts of light shot out from the turbolasers as the Ethereal passed into range, converging on the enemy light cruiser. Energy was dispersed across the Gruhjaffa vessel’s electrostatic barrier.
“Load ion torpedoes in the starboard launchers, and target the thruster area,” Laceeya ordered, feeling her pulse quicken in anticipation. “Captain, send the Crux underneath the light cruiser. We’ll catch it in a crossfire.”
“Very good, Commodore.” Harax acknowledged.
The other ships of the task force were beginning to engage the Gruhjaffa ships, lasers flying in the space between them. Laceeya clasped her hands behind her back, trying to prevent herself from fidgeting. Even though the Hand had more forces than the Gruhjaffa, and their ships were much more advanced and powerful, she was still a bit nervous. Even with an advantage, people could still die, especially the more vulnerable starfighter pilots. Additionally, there was always the chance that there were other vessels lurking that could join the skirmish. She’d do everything she could to make sure as few lives were lost as possible, Laceeya thought, setting her mouth in a thin line.
“Get Senior Captain Farwick on the comm,” Laceeya said to Rikal. She nodded, pressing a few buttons on her control panel. A blue light lit up to indicate that a link had been established. “Senior Captain,” She said. “Bring Shadow’s Bane beneath the heavy cruiser, then roll and launch a full broadside fusillade. Once the shields are down, target weapons emplacements and the thrusters.”
“Yes ma’am. We're on it.” Farwick’s bass voice promptly responded. With capital ship warfare, many seemed to treat space like a two dimensional field, and thus ships were often sorely lacking in weapons on their ventral side. Laceeya tried to take advantage of the unexpected surprise frequently provided by not following more traditional methods of engagement. It was worth a shot to send Shadow’s Bane beneath the heavy cruiser, hopefully catching it off guard and forcing it to reposition.
Laceeya looked out the viewport, turning her attention to the light cruiser off to the right that they were approaching, scanning the ship for any possible weaknesses. A storm of laser fire streaked through space from the barrels of the Ethereal’s powerful turbolasers, most of it soaked up by the light cruiser’s rapidly weakening electrostatic barrier. Slipping beneath the enemy vessel, the Crux was firing its weapons at its underbelly as the Ethereal pounded its starboard flank.
“Captain, open the bow hangar doors and launch fighters. Shyka, stand by to fire ion torpedoes…now.” Laceeya ordered, as the Ethereal and the light cruiser exchanged broadside salvos. Bolts from the huge main turbolasers slammed against the enemy ship, battering its defenses. With a flash of thruster trails, twin pairs of projectiles shot out from their launch tubes. Three of the torpedoes made it through to impact the rear of the Gruhjaffa light cruiser, discharging arcs of white ionic energy across the stern. The electrostatic barrier was shorted out in the area, leaving its body vulnerable.
“Focus all turbolaser fire on the aft end,” Laceeya said, as the 546B slipped beside the enemy warship. Meanwhile, the first of the TIEs was rocketing from the bow hangar, protected between the mandibles at the front of the ship. “Captain, send the fighters to help out the Nightstalker and Blitz with that frigate and gunships, and have the Crux move behind the light cruiser and keep hitting the engines. Apoyarp, bring us around for another pass.”
“Yes ma’am.”
Firing into the light cruiser’s exposed engine block, the Ethereal’s bow rotated, keeping the wounded enemy ship in view. Out the side viewport, Laceeya saw a Gruhjaffa corvette explode from a sustained barrage of missiles and laser fire by Shadow’s Bane. She grimaced, feeling a pang of guilt. The Gruhjaffa had always been such a peaceful and kind people, never showing any aggression towards others. But they’d attacked the Renthassi, killing civilians, and now they’d directly attacked the Hand as well. Whether under Grysk influence or not, they had to be stopped.
The Ethereal’s bow had fully spun around, this ship driving forward again to ready for another pass. “Load breachers in the port launchers, fire on my command at the thrusters,” She said. “Asmaril, how are the shields?”
“They’re weakened slightly but holding steady, Commodore.” Asmaril reported.
“Good,” Laceeya said. “Watch those gunships, Shyka.” A pair of Gruhjaffa gunships were trying to slot in behind the Ethereal’s engine block, firing upon it.
“On it.” The rear turbolasers and laser cannons swiveled to shift their aim after Shyka relayed the order, bolts of plasma lancing out to strike at the gunships. They broke off their attack, their electrostatic barriers holding initially. Dodging and weaving they turned away, they flew right into the path of a squadron of TIE Interceptors.
Volleys of green laser fire shot from the wingtip laser cannons of the Interceptors, splashing across the flanks of the two gunships. Coming in at a perpendicular angle, the TIEs blasted away at their electrostatic barriers, and executed a sweeping turn to drop in behind the pair of enemy gunships.
Turrets swiveled to face their pursuers on the pair of Gruhjaffa ships as they did their best to dodge the relentless bursts of plasma bolts and return fire, but the Interceptors stayed glued behind them. The TIEs nimbly skirted around bursts of laser fire, but one of them was clipped on its wing, sending it skidding to the side before it managed to regain control. A concentrated volley from the Interceptors speared the thrusters of one of the gunships, and an explosion rocked the vessel as the engines detonated, leaving it drifting dead in space. A brief moment later, the other gunship was likewise taken out, and the Interceptors shot past the two lifeless vessels.
Laceeya pulled her attention away from the engagement. Chewing her lower lip, her eyes scanned the battlefield, falling upon Shadow’s Bane assailing the Gruhjaffa heavy cruiser. Verdant lasers stung the enemy warship, and another salvo of missiles broke through its electrostatic barrier and detonated on the hull, ripping apart and peeling away armored panels.
A slight vibration coursed through the deck beneath Laceeya’s feet as an attack from the Gruhjaffa light cruiser struck the shields. In a vain attempt to keep its vulnerable engines out of direct view of the Ethereal, the damaged enemy warship had likewise completed a yaw turn to present its flank. Thanks to its smaller size and agility, the Raider-Class corvette Crux was maneuvering to stay behind the light cruiser, firing its weapons at its thrusters and staying out of the firing arcs of most of the light cruiser's main weapons.
“Enemy bomber squadron coming in on vector 194 by 350.” Frenara called out.
Swapping her attention away from the cruiser, Laceeya narrowed her eyes, peering out the viewport. A squadron of Gruhjaffa starfighters from the orbital station had fought through the battle and were making runs on the Ethereal, the point defense cannons firing away at them. A couple of the bombers went up in clouds of golden-red flame as the gunners found their mark, and another spun out of control as a glancing blow struck its side. The TIE Interceptors had swung around to pursue the enemy fighters, their superior speed allowing them to gain ground on the enemy craft.
Another Gruhjaffa fighter fell, pierced through the cockpit by a precise shot from the Ethereal, leaving the mostly intact craft drifting aimlessly through space. The rest of the enemy squadron was doing their best to shoot at the Ethereal while trying to avoid the green bolts flying towards them. However, the Ethereal’s strong shields absorbed the volleys from their dual laser cannons without significant effect.
Then the fighters passed by, the quicker TIE Interceptors having caught up and tearing into them from behind. Laceeya surveyed the rest of the battle. The Gruhjaffa were not a warlike people, and it showed. Combined with the Hand’s more advanced and powerful ships, they were rapidly being routed.
“Rikal, broadcast on an open channel.” Laceeya said.
“Yes ma’am.”
“This is Commodore Laceeya,” Laceeya spoke into the comm. “Your forces are being destroyed. Surrender, and we won’t have to cause any more unnecessary bloodshed.” She gestured toward Rikal to close the transmission.
Pursing her lips in silent frustration, Laceeya peered out at the enemy light cruiser doggedly firing on the Ethereal. “Shyka, keep targeting the rear of that light cruiser,” Laceeya ordered. “It can’t take much more punishment.”
“Yes ma’am.” Shyka acknowledged. “You’re right about that.”
The Ethereal’s largest weapons, the quad turbolasers and dual turbolasers ate away at the armor of the light cruiser. And sure enough, an explosion shook the ship, flame billowing outward as a couple of the thrusters detonated. The streaks of green delved deeper into the aft end of the ship, and another large explosion racked the vessel. All its thrusters went dark as they were blown apart, their dying glow eclipsed by the fiery inferno that grew out of the stern of the ship.
Yet still no response had come in from the Gruhjaffa. Laceeya chewed the inside of her cheek thoughtfully. They were doing their best to take the Gruhjaffa alive, but their unwillingness to surrender would still lead to the death of more of their own people in a battle that was clearly hopeless, and put those under Laceeya’s command at unnecessary risk. It seemed so inevitable that the Gruhjaffa would be defeated, yet they continued to fight.
Off to the Ethereal’s port side, an overconfident Gruhjaffa corvette was exchanging a broadside with the much larger vessel, the corvette clearly losing in the duel. Explosions tore through the ship, hull panels bursting apart as its reactor blew.
“The Grysks must really have a hold over them if they’re not willing to give up now.” Shyka observed grimly.
“It’s like they’ve lost all rationality. Or at least their leaders have.” Laceeya agreed. With the knowledge she had of Gruhjaffa society, she knew their people were exceptionally loyal to their leaders. “Lieutenant, take us over to that frigate.”
“Will do, Commodore.” Apoyarp said. The hum of the Ethereal’s engines rose as it drove toward a damaged Gruhjaffa frigate that was being assaulted by the Blitz and Nightstalker.
“Focus on taking out those weapons clusters, I'd prefer to keep the ship intact if we can,” Laceeya pointed out. “Rikal, give me the comm with Blitz and Nightstalker.”
“Yes ma’am.” Rikal said, pressing a few keys on her controls to get in contact with the commanders of the two ships.
“Break off your attack to recharge your shields,” Laceeya ordered the commanders of the smaller vessels. “We’ll take the frigate from here.”
“Understood, Commodore.” Commander Tholirr of the Blitz acknowledged.
The Raider and VT-49 banked away from the frigate, the Ethereal taking their place with turbolasers blazing. The frigate’s barrier had been disabled, and turbolaser blasts exploded against the body of the ship, melting weapons emplacements and vaporizing hull panels. A cloud of flame billowed out from a spot where the armor was pierced, with the ship's atmosphere venting out to fuel the fire.
“Captain, order Major Safiram to take out the frigate's weapon emplacements.” Laceeya ordered.
“Very good, ma’am.” Harax replied with a nod.
Maneuvering across the frigate and dodging laser bolts, the Ethereal’s squadron of advanced TIEs systematically destroyed remaining weapons, neutralizing the ship’s offensive capabilities.
“Shyka, load ion torpedoes in the bow launchers and fire at the thrusters when ready.” Laceeya ordered.
“On it, ma’am.” Shyka said, hunching over her console to target the engines of the frigate. Acquiring a solid lock, she fired, the pair of torpedoes speeding out of their launch tubes. “Torpedoes away.”
With most of the frigate's weaponry blasted off its hull, the twin torpedoes sailed through unimpeded to detonate against the already damaged engines. Arcs of ionic energy coursed across the stern, shorting out circuits and disabling systems. With the glow from the engines fading due to the ion attack, the life went out of the thrusters, leaving the 300 meter frigate dead in space.
Laceeya walked back to the holotable, where Captain Harax was observing a holographic display of the battle. The other Gruhjaffa ships weren’t faring well, with the larger heavy cruiser severely damaged and disabled by Shadow’s Bane. Debris was scattered from where several less fortunate smaller gunships and numerous fighters had been destroyed. A couple gunships and corvettes, as well as a few starfighters remained active, but they were quickly being rounded up and disabled or destroyed.
Laceeya exhaled heavily. The battle had essentially been won, without any significant damage to her task force’s capital ships. She watched as the last few enemy ships were taken out, TIEs and Clawcraft fighters hunting down fleeing starfighters and neutralizing them. She walked back over to the comm station, getting in contact with the other commanders of her task force.
“All ships, give a quick status report.” Laceeya said, straightening her back and clasping her hands behind her waist.
One by one the other commanders listed the status of their ships. Laceeya was relieved to hear that no one had been killed. A few TIEs had taken some damage, but the pilots were unharmed. Any significant battle where everyone survived was always a huge victory to her.
“Great work everyone,” Laceeya said. “Without having all of you here, this battle would’ve been very different.”
“Thank you, Commodore,” Senior Captain Farwick spoke over the comm. “How are we going to proceed from here, ma’am?”
“I’m hoping the Gruhjaffa will finally answer now that they’re defenseless,” Laceeya said. “I’d like to know what sparked their attacks against the Renthassi, and see if we can figure out how the Grysks got them under their control. Since I don’t see any other reason for their actions.”
“Understood, Commodore.” Farwick replied.
The other commanders signed off, and Laceeya had Rikal reopen a channel with the Gruhjaffa. “This is Commodore Laceeya,” She stated in Minnisiat. “Your ships have been disabled or destroyed. Surrender, and you’ll be treated fairly. We’re looking for information on the Grysks, so if you have any information or reasoning for your actions, that would be appreciated.” She gestured for Rikal to play the message on a loop. “Go ahead and comm the Renthassi.”
“Yes ma’am.” Rikal acknowledged.
“This is Commodore Laceeya,” Laceeya announced yet again. “We were attacked by the Gruhjaffa, and their ships have now been disabled or destroyed, but they’re still not answering our attempts at communication.”
“We are extremely grateful for your assistance in dealing with the Gruhjaffa, Commodore” Jarlegin’s relieved voice responded. “Our people feared we would be destroyed by their unexpected aggression. You are in our debt.”
“No problem,” Laceeya said. “So you have no idea why the Gruhjaffa attacked you? Or anything unusual that may have happened recently?”
“None at all,” Jarlegin said grimly. “All was normal before they struck, aside from a ship and crew that went missing on a trading journey to the Senbuu system.”
“I see,” Laceeya said slowly, pursing her lips as fears turned in her head. “How long ago was this?”
Jarlegin was silent for a moment before responding. “”It was around two of your months ago,” He said thoughtfully. “But I assure you, they would have nothing to do with the Gruhjaffa’s aggression.” He finished hastily.
Laceeya thought that over. It wasn’t that unusual of an occurrence, but the timing of it, combined with the recent events made her suspicious.
“We’re going to try to…” She stopped talking at Rikal’s signal, indicating the Gruhjaffa had answered their call. “Hold on, we’re receiving communications from the Gruhjaffa.” She inclined her head toward Rikal in silent confirmation to answer the call.
“I am Command Chief Nurakka,” A nasally and raspy voice spoke from the speaker.
“Do you have any explanation for why you attacked the Renthassi?” Laceeya asked. “They said you attacked them for no reason, killing innocent civilians.”
“They lie!” Nurakka exclaimed. “They stole our holy scrolls, and destroyed the holy temple!”
Shyka glanced over at Laceeya, giving her a confused look. “Do you have proof of that?” She asked. “The Renthassi assured us that they did nothing to provoke you.”
“A group of Renthassi were seen exiting the temple, destroying it as they departed, and escaping on their ship,” Nurakka explained. “It is the greatest offense one could commit, and the High Priest said the gods demand retribution.”
Laceeya pursed her lips, assembling the pieces in her mind. So that was the likely explanation for what had happened to the missing Renthassi ship. It must’ve been captured by the Grysks, who then must’ve coerced the crew to complete a mission for them, striking at the thing most valuable to the Gruhjaffa. All to have the Gruhjaffa believe the Renthassi were behind it, goading the Gruhjaffa into starting a war and striking at the Renthassi. All of which would then leave the system ripe for the taking after the two groups destroyed each other’s defenses, leaving behind the prosperous industrial capability of the two worlds.
“I see,” Laceeya murmured, nodding to herself. “I don’t think the Renthassi themselves were behind the attack. I believe it was the rogue crew of one ship that was forced into action against your people, leading you to believe the Renthassi were conspiring against you. But none of that explains why you attacked my ships.”
Nurakka was silent for a short time before finally responding. “I was told you were working with the Renthassi,” He said carefully. “That you were here to destroy us, that you would come speaking lies.”
“Who told you this?” Laceeya questioned. “Has the Empire of the Hand ever done anything to betray your trust?”
“I should not say…” Nurakka replied hesitantly. “I do not wish to doubt the gods words…But it was the High Priest. I myself doubted such things, yet he speaks to the gods and I do not. So I must obey his commands.” That was interesting, Laceeya thought. “He said you would kill us all, even if we surrendered.”
“None of you will be harmed as long as you don’t attack us,” Laceeya said. “I need to speak with your High Priest.”
“I- I will ask him,” Nurakka stammered. “But he-“
“No, you will tell him that I need to speak with him,” Laceeya warned sharply. “It’s not optional. Understood?”
“Yes, Commodore, it is,” Nurakka murmured nervously. “But he will not be pleased.”
“I’m certain the innocent Renthassi who were killed in attacks by his orders aren’t pleased either,” Laceeya countered coolly. “Tell him I’d like to meet in person. We’ll be awaiting his response.” She gestured to Rikal, and the comm shut off with a click.
Chewing her lower lip in thought, Laceeya let out a sigh, closing her eyes momentarily.
“Nurakka didn’t seem very happy with the whole situation,” Shyka observed.
“Sounds like he didn’t have much of a say in the decision to attack the Renthassi,” Laceeya said. “Obviously that doesn’t excuse their actions, but it does seem like the High Priest is the one behind the Gruhjaffa’s aggression.”
“Given his actions, I think it likely that the Grysks are influencing or manipulating the High Priest, Commodore,” Harax spoke up.
“I agree,” Laceeya said with a nod. “They’re a very religious people, and using the gods and the High Priest’s influence over the Gruhjaffa is probably an effective way to control them. If the Grysks captured that missing Renthassi freighter, and coerced them into stealing the Holy scrolls and destroying their temple, that would be enough to get the people riled up and have someone to point a finger at.”
“If that’s the case, how do you think they got the High Priest on their side?” Shyka asked.
“I don’t know,” Laceeya answered, shaking her head. “Hopefully we can get him to talk to us and shed some light on things.”
Shyka nodded slowly, thoughtfully tapping her lip. “And you want to meet with him face to face?” She questioned uncertainly.
“I’m hoping I can get a better reading on him that way.” Laceeya confirmed.
“You don’t think that’s risky?” Shyka said, a slight note of concern in her voice. Laceeya could tell she wasn’t thrilled with the idea.
“We‘re the ones with a group of warships orbiting their planet,” Laceeya shrugged. “I’ll make sure it’s safe.”
“Yes ma’am.” Shyka said, still not sounding entirely convinced.
“It’ll be fine.” Laceeya said, smiling faintly at her.
Walking around the bridge, Laceeya checked over the status of all the ship’s systems. Everything looked good, the shields had been fully charged and the fighters had returned to float in space, spread around the Ethereal. She returned to her command chair, glancing at the displays mounted to it that showed an abbreviated status of the Ethereal’s systems, double checking again that everything looked good.
“Commodore,” Rikal called out. “Receiving communications from the Gruhjaffa.”
“Put them on here,” Laceeya said, tapping the button on her chair arm to open the comm. “This is Commodore Laceeya of the Empire of the Hand ship Ethereal.”
“I am High Priest Quennshapp,” A grating and nasally voice replied. “What right do you have to come to our world and attack my people?” He demanded haughtily.
“We didn’t attack you,” Laceeya told him. “I tried to contact you but no one answered, and then we were attacked. We were only defending ourselves. But anyway, I’d like to meet with you in person.”
A wheezy snort came over the comm. “Why should I meet with someone who attacked us?” The High Priest asked, his voice dripping with contempt. ”Do you expect me to come to your ship, where I could be captured or killed?” Laceeya pursed her lips. This behavior was so unlike anything she’d experienced with the Gruhjaffa before.
“Fine, if you don’t want to come here, I’ll come to you.” Laceeya said.
Quennshapp must not have expected that, and took a moment to respond. “That is…acceptable,” He muttered. “I will have the coordinates sent for where you can land.”
“Thank you,” Laceeya said. “I’ll see you then.” She tapped the button to close the channel, exhaling slowly.
“Commodore, I don’t like this,” Shyka said. “Going to meet this guy could be really dangerous.”
“I admit that I agree with the Senior Lieutenant, Commodore,” Harax said cautiously. “Of course, I don’t mean to question your judgment, ma’am.” He added briskly.
“No worries, Captain,” Laceeya said. “I understand both your concerns, but this needs to be done. I’ll bring an escort of troopers with me.”
“I could go instead of you.” Shyka offered. ”I’m not nearly as important as you are.”
“Look, I appreciate both of you worrying about my safety,” Laceeya said, giving them a smile. “But I’d like to do this myself.”
“Understood, Commodore.” Harax said with a brisk nod.
“Yes ma’am.” Shyka reluctantly agreed. Laceeya looked over at her, meeting her eyes and sending her what she hoped was a reassuring smile. She could read the worry in Bren’s expression, understandably so. Laceeya would be worried herself if Bren was going to meet with the leader of a group in their territory, who had just ordered an attack on the Hand’s forces. Yes, it could be dangerous, but Laceeya wanted to get a better reading on the High Priest and the other Gruhjaffa leaders, to try and uncover more of what was going on here, and doing that herself in a face to face manner was the best option.
Shyka returned a faint smile to Laceeya. “Just…be careful down there.” She added.
“We will.” Laceeya replied. Shyka gave her one last long look, before turning back to her control board. A few minutes later Laceeya set off to the hangar bay, strolling down the Ethereal’s hallways. She had to admit that Bren and Harax’s concerns were valid. She mentally shook the thoughts away. It would surely be fine.
Hopefully the others’ worries would be unfounded, and it would end up being nothing more than a diplomatic and civil conversation.
