DaydreamChronicles

Episode 3: Threatening Despair

“This is Captain Bellam of the battleship Striker Four. We have arrived at our destination and have set up a perimeter. The aces are pushing ahead to scout near the sector border. So far, no signs of the Armada’s assault fleet.”, we listened intently to the recording on the Command Bridge. A week passed after the fateful mission. The star pilots are gone. Evidence collected in the area of Sector Seven Tau shows that a fierce battle took place. I took charge of that mission after Striker Four, the only surviving battleship, barely made it back to our station. It’s currently docked and receiving repairs. Meanwhile, Draco Star Command dispatched a few cruisers and a carrier to reinforce our position. The news shocked everyone. Now we listen to the evidence of what happened while our tacticians prepare contingencies. These days have been stressful to say the least.

We continued to listen to the recording. “It has been two hours since our arrival. We continue to wait for enemy forces, but no one is certain anymore. Our intel specified that they would be passing through here. That their first targets would be our data and telemetry satellites. Could they have…?”. An explosion could be heard in the recording. They were swarmed by ships jumping directly into the sector. The fleet they encountered had prepared an ambush that separated part of the intercepting forces into two. On one side, the aces and on the other the battleships sent to provide support. Whatever few fighters they had were quickly destroyed after launch. The ace trio made short work of any enemy fighters they encountered, but a large battle cruiser overwhelmed them. “Talia, Mira, Stella, Report! What is happening? Are you alright?”, the captain’s voice sounded worried. Then we heard Talia respond, “This is Talia, we are being overwhelmed. They’re using weapons to disable our ships. Stella has been captured and they will most likely do the same to us. Get out of here while you still can, I can open some space for you to maneuver, but you have to move fast!”. The rest of the recording depicted explosions, screams and a final sigh of relief. Three battleships lost. The ace trio have now been captured and we have no way of knowing what the Armada is planning to do with them.

There were so many injured or dead from this skirmish. At least our base was well equipped for such an emergency. I knew this was only the beginning, so I am bracing myself for whatever comes next. It was clear that the intent of that battle was to lure the aces out and capture them. The amount of resources the Armada used for that made it clear they wanted some of the biggest threats out of the way. Each day has been a scramble to read mission reports, writing new strategies to protect the Alliance’s interests and deployments to different sectors. In the coming weeks I’ll be busy leading Draco Squadron into the fray. The Armada will still attack Sector Seven Sigma, but this time we’ll be better prepared.

After another three weeks we finally have confirmation that the Rastaban Armada is deploying its forces to attack Sector Seven Sigma. This time we don’t have the aces, instead the newly formed Draco Squadron will be deployed to assist the colonies in their defense. Knowing my interest in defending the sector, General Yen Li has appointed me as the leader of the squadron. In all this time we have yet to find the aces. A task force was deployed and they have been tracking prisoner movements. So far all they know is that one of the star pilots was moved somewhere near Rastaban Prime. Intercepted communications point to the torture of the other two. Thankfully the task force’s pursuit has allowed the Armada little time for whatever they plan to do to them. Meanwhile I prepare plans for the defense of Seven Sigma.

The briefing room is packed with people from our logistics and armory divisions to the pilots of various squadrons, including Draco Squadron. We also have direct communication with the other generals of the Alliance. I started the briefing explaining the plan. We are to deploy sensor satellites around the sector. This sensor net will alert us of the energy fluctuations that happen just before a jump. This would protect us from being surprised by any ships that might try to enter the system at an advantageous position. Battleships will be posted around the colonies while they make preparations to stand their ground. I assured the generals and everyone that we would defend the sector at all costs. It was the key to maintaining the opposition against the Rastaban Armada. The final piece of the puzzle was Draco Squadron. We will punch through enemy defenses and take out as many of their battleships as we can. They will either be forced to retreat or suffer heavy losses. When the briefing ended everyone felt ready for battle. The generals approved of the plan and promised to send reinforcements if needed.

“Draco Squadron, you’d better take out some of that energy at the simulation chambers. Should also keep those senses sharp.”, I said to my new partners. Among them was both Jaan and Hino. The Alliance keeps records of pilot performance. I was both surprised and pleased they were near the top of the list, just below me. What surprised me the most was that I was in fourth position, below ace Stella. The years spent as protector of places like Seven Sigma paid off. Of course, I never sought to become one of the aces. About a year ago Yen Li approached me to take up a position among the aces. They’d accommodate me with them. Back then I remember the General said, “they take on the hardest missions”. To me, having those three was enough. I had my sights set on my little piece of space. I declined that position. If I had taken it back then who knows where we would be.

“Reminiscing?”, General Yen Li approached me.

“Oh, General. Yes actually. About that time you asked me to join the aces.”

“I’m glad you didn’t take it back then. We’d be in quite a pickle right now.”

“There are other great pilots, as evidenced by Draco Squadron.”

“Don’t sell yourself short. You aren’t Grand Marshall for a mere fluke. You earned your position because you are determined, talented and you look out for others.”, Yen Li has always been supportive.

“Thanks, and I have to keep working hard. I am afraid of this coming mission.”

“You would be a fool if you weren’t afraid. We all analyzed your plan and have already picked the forces to go. We have your back.”

“I’ll make sure to bring back Draco Squadron in one piece.”

“I’m sure you will, go get some rest. Tomorrow will be tough.”

Episode 2: The Rastaban Conflict

It has barely been two weeks since the announcement and the Alliance is moving around like it’s the end of the galaxy. Though the leaders have downplayed the threat publicly, internally we have been scrambling to gather information and prepare tactical analysis of what is to come. The Rastaban Armada is the name they chose for their military forces. Reports coming in from the planet have revealed that most of the population has been lulled by promises of peace through veritable conquest. Despite the fact that the Alliance had never really gone against the wishes of the government, I suspect there is more to this. I honestly think it’s just a ploy to raise Ohmaaran, the newly appointed Grandmaster, to fulfill his own desires for ruling. Well, no matter the reason the Armada has been on high alert and has moved a number of defense groups to key areas. A blockade has also been gaining traction, but some of the leaders have been reluctant to do it as it would harm the citizens of Rastaban Prime. As things are now we are at a precarious stage, waiting on who makes the first strike.

I’ve been waiting for new orders since my last mission, where I met the elite trio of pilots. Not a few minutes passed when they were issued new orders and deployed in an instant to various points of the system. They were ordered to gather what information they could. Meanwhile I was stuck here going through report after report trying to see if we could find a way to give some diplomatic leverage to our leaders and find a peaceful resolution. Sadly, I think there is nothing to be done here. I took some time to study High Lord Ohmaaran. In his circles he was a strong and proud leader. His ambitions were clear from the start and he continuously opposed the formation of the Alliance. After it happened anyway he seemed to become unhinged. There are rumors that state he even founded an underground movement meant to destabilize the government, get the people to back him up and eventually take over. The thing about these rumors though is that there isn’t any solid proof. It’s all hearsay. Accusing him of treason would’ve only garnered him more followers. In this our leaders were wise, but now we face a big threat.

Rastaban Prime is a powerful commercial hub. A lot of the trade in the system goes through there. They’re also incredibly productive, only rivaled by specialized colonies… wait. Oh no.

I rushed to command, realizing that their first target was likely the colonies of sector Seven Sigma. Why would they take so long to prepare an assault though? Surely their declaration meant that they were prepared for war. Yen Li saw me enter the Command Bridge in a hurry. I stopped for a second to catch my breath. “Are you alright? Did you find something?”, she asked.

“Yes General, I think I know what their first target is…”, before I could continue, someone in the room spoke up to the general. It was the comms officer.

“General! I’m sorry to interrupt, but an urgent message has arrived. It’s from the Armada. They said that the colonies of Sector Seven Sigma are to surrender to them at once.”

“Well? Grand Marshall?”

I looked to the General, “That was what I came here for. I realized that our main production and supplies would be hit, starting with our most productive colonies.”

“Let’s see how the Alliance responds. Stay here Olivia, we’ll know what to do soon enough.”

A few hours passed and communication arrived from Draco Star Command. The ace trio was going to be dispatched to intercept whatever attack force was sent to Sector Seven Sigma.

“I don’t doubt their capabilities, but should the Alliance be relying on them so much?”, I said.

“If the other generals deemed it enough, then it should be enough. Are you worried they can’t do the job? They’ve proven themselves many times over. Look, I know Sector Seven Sigma is part of our jurisdiction and I know your family is from those colonies. Worrying won’t help things, we have to trust in their ability to perform their duty.”

“You’re right. Let me know if anything changes. I’ll be at the mess hall.”

“Alright, don’t linger on thinking about all this. I know you well enough and don’t even think of doing anything on your own. Tell Jaan and Hino to join you, I’m sure they can distract you for a while.”

“For sure, thanks General.”

Mess hall was the prime meeting spot to have some good food and talk to your companions. Like Yen Li suggested, I called Jaan and Hino to join me.

“I heard the news, the aces are going up against one of the first assaults from the Armada.”, said Jaan, placing his plate on the table.

“Urgh, don’t remind me. I think it’s a mistake. They are incredibly talented, but sending them on such a dangerous mission?”

“Livi, you worry too much.”, Hino arrived with her food. They both sat down.

“I know, I know. It’s like when we’re on missions together. I’m always worrying about you two.”

“Hey, we can hold our own. Besides, this is the career we chose. It’ll always be dangerous.”, Jaan was right. I nodded in agreement. Took a deep breath and let out a sigh.

“And you, ma’am didn’t make it to Grand Marshall by worrying alone. I’m sure you could teach the aces a thing or two.”, Hino said.

It was funny, but to them I was as much an ace. “I think my problem with this is not only are they put into a very dangerous position, they’re also one of our biggest tactical advantages. Is using it so early in this conflict wise?”

“We can’t know for sure. All we can do is hope that this will serve as a deterrent. Surely they’ll think twice before sending another attack.”, Jaan said just before taking a bite of his food.

We spent most of the afternoon talking about other things. It helped to ease my mind a bit. Shortly before Jaan left for maintenance duty, General Yen Li arrived and joined us for a few minutes. Things seemed calm for now. All I can do is trust that things will go well.

Episode 1: Enter the Aces

“The political landscape in Rastaban Prime has once again been shaken up. High lord Ohmaaran believes it is time to change leadership and denounce that the Draco Star Alliance will eventually end up being another oppressor to their free world. Meanwhile on interstellar news the war in the Centauri system has been going on for almost two years now, we go live to Paul at outpost…”, I tuned out the rest. Conflict and war was something I didn’t really want to hear this morning, but I’m afraid we might get our dose of it soon. I was reviewing reports of more unrest in Rastaban Prime. This world is one of the most important in the system with large amounts of trade and production coming from it. Another news segment started, “Today we watch the special sky show performed by none other than the legendary trio of the Draco Star Alliance. Live from Eltanin IV, here is Millie with more on the show”. The star pilots. Three of the best fighter pilots in this system performing a show for the masses. Of course, it all helps the public image of the Alliance. Not too long ago it was every planet on its own. The governments were at each other’s throats trying to settle the territorial lines, but in space it’s very difficult to settle on who can claim what. So the alliance rose and not only settled the debates, but the hearts as well. Our peace is fragile though. The government of Rastaban Prime has been in opposition to the Alliance for some time now and internal dissidents have been particularly aggressive about it.

“Grand Marshall Olivia Manzanares, please report to the Command Bridge”, that was my cue. I finished with the small details of my uniform, turned off the monitor and headed out. As I made my way to the Command Bridge, my mind was swarmed with thoughts. I was glad that the Alliance formed. I kept my title and they provided some nice cozy quarters on the recently remodeled security station. There was, of course, a lot of work to do. Smugglers, pirates and all manner of rebellious groups had to be dealt with. It was difficult to keep everyone happy and the leaders of the Alliance were painfully aware. The majority of the people supported them. Most of the leaders were reelected after evaluating their previous performance. It has barely been four years. I hope the current peace lasts, I also hope I didn’t just jinx it. Meeting the general always gets me a bit nervous.

When I entered the command room everyone was laser focused on the forward viewport. The star pilots were giving their best performance yet.

“Wait really? Is this why you called me?”, I asked somewhat puzzled.

“Oh of course not Grand Marshall.”, the General said.

“Ah, ok, hit me. Why am I here? I was kind of enjoying the few days off.”, I said rather playfully. Nothing much had been happening recently and General Yen Li always worried that I was too focused on work. She ordered those days off.

“Always eager to work eh? Well, I have just the thing. You see that monitor? Those aren’t the aces.”

“Wait what?”

“They’re actually on a mission and they want us to send a cleanup crew.”

“Seriously? Now I’m just clean up?”

“Hey, don’t scoff at a mission like this, we could gather some good intel. Regardless, their mission is to sweep some smugglers before they reach Rastaban Prime.”

My eyes widened, “That planet again. I keep hearing rumors and I don’t like them.”

“Don’t be surprised, but we think it might be connected. I want you and two other fighters to hack into the cargo transports. You can do that from your ship now by the way. I took the liberty of installing the new systems.”

“That’s great. Are those the new ones we ordered from Sirius?”

“Yes indeed.”

I smiled, we had those systems ordered for months. Then, I said as I grinned, “I’ll contain my excitement for now.”

“Sure, take two pilots and get going. You are to report back in three hours.”

“Yes ma’am. I’ll be heading out then.”

Our jump to the sector was smooth. When we arrived the renowned star pilots were finishing up the last of the escort ships. Talia, Mira and Stella. It was awe inspiring to see them in action, even if for a short time.

“Alright you two, let’s get closer to the cargo transports. We each take one and then converge on the fourth. Should be a piece of cake. Hino, take the farthest one. Jaan, take the closest and I’ll take the middle transport”, I said to my wingmates.

“Acknowledged.”, said Jaan.

“Heading there now.”, said Hino.

I was glad to pick these two. Some of the best friends one could ask for. We’ve stuck through thick and thin. I wonder if the star pilots were the same.

“Grand Marshall, glad you made it. We’re gonna stick around for a bit to make sure there are no reinforcements. The combat unit will be infiltrating the transports soon, you’d better get to work quickly”, Talia said.

“Acknowledged, this won’t take long.”, I responded.

A little over an hour passed and we finished our mission. We stopped to watch as the trio of elite pilots jumped away to their next mission.

“Let’s head back to base. The general will want to see what we found.”, we made our own jump out shortly after.

As soon as we arrived we noticed quite the commotion in the station. When we arrived at the Command Bridge everyone was staring once again at the screen. I was surprised to see the star pilots here with us. Then, I noticed the voice of the newscaster, “…that is the information we have so far. Relations with Rastaban Prime had been shaky for quite a long time. Their declaration and the apparent death of their leaders has us questioning if this will be the end of peace in Draco. This is Liliana, reporting live. Our coverage…”, the sound was cut off. General Yen Li had that look. She was worried. Our next steps would be very important. Rastaban Prime has declared war against the Alliance.