Path to the Stars - Third draft full

Path To The Stars

Chapter 1

The naked man sat on the prow of the battleship admiring the stars. Above him, the blackness of space was contrasted by fiery blooms of nuclear fire. In the distance the engine trails of spaceships danced with one another like fireflies in the night.

“Do you hear it?” he said.

She stood behind him and heard nothing in the vacuum of space.

“Hear what, sir?” she replied, not forgetting her military habits.

He pointed at the ships that were circling one another. A larger battlecruiser , grey in colour with a symmetrical and angular design, was fending off wave after wave of torpedoes from two smaller cruisers.

“She is calling to me. Can you hear her cries of pain?”

Rei knew the ship well, the Sword of Truth was a Seihon Empire sword-class battlecruiser. The Sword of Truth and the Sword of Justice were both assigned to her squadron. The were nicknamed the sword sisters.

“Who are you?” Rei asked.

The man didn't turn around. He was watching the battle intently.

“I am the Tower of Reverence,” he said.

Rei didn't understand, the Tower of Reverence was the battleship she was assigned to. Why would a man have the same name as her ship?

“Are you afraid?” He asked.

She looked up at the ships that were hammering away at each other with torpedoes and lasers. She could have been assigned to the Truth, it could be her up there, fighting for her life. She didn't want to fight this war— this battle. She never asked to join the navy, it wasn't her choice to be here. Her fingers were trembling.

“I'm not afraid,” she said.

The man turned to her and smiled. He was handsome, a strong jaw line and chiselled features distinguished his face— yet he had a certain air of femininity. His demeanour radiated with confidence. There was something familiar about him that she couldn't quite put her finger on...

“Don't worry... I will protect you.” He said.

_____________________________

“Lieutenant Duunin!” The tone was urgent. Shaken from her vision, she tried to breath in, but her lungs were filled with liquid. The fear of drowning made her panic.

“Lieutenant Duunin. Your vitals are spiking— running diagnostic on your g-pod...”

A computerised voice interrupted the speaker.

“Administering stimulants.”

The panic she felt a moment ago subsided and her racing heart slowed to a normal pace.

“Lieutenant! Report!”

Recent memories flooded back to her and she remembered where she was, and what she was doing. She relaxed and let the oxygen rich liquid in her g-pod flow easily into her lungs. Closing her eyes she reconnected to the virtual simulnet. From the perspective of an observer drone she watched the battle that was unfolding outside. Before her the Seihon squadron was facing off against a much larger Commonwealth squadron. Her ship, the Tower of Reverence, was wedged in between a shield class heavy cruiser, the Shield of Vindication, and the Truth's sister ship, Justice. Opposing them was a squadron of eight ships, ranging from small destroyers to battlecruisers. The Truth had broken from the formation and was fending off two commonwealth cruisers.

“The Truth is reporting critical damage, sir,” she reported.

The Truth rolled to her port side, torpedoes streaking toward her through the blackness of space, ice vapour trails in their wake. The point defence turrets across her bow unleashed laser fire on the volleys of incoming torpedoes. One by one they ignited in space, collapsing into chunks of debris. But it was not enough, one, and then two torpedoes slammed home, their nuclear payloads imploding into brilliant balls of light. The shield around the battlecruiser's starboard side flickered briefly. The rest of the torpedo volley snaked past the damaged shield tearing into the Truths's side. Pieces of armour flew into space, exposing great rents in the ship's hull and revealing its superstructure.

“Commonwealth cruisers are coming about,” echoed over the relay. The enemy squadron was slowly closing in from all sides.

“Deploy the heavy drones and re-align for a starboard battery. Support the Truth and target the enemy cruisers weapon systems.” The interface overlay indicated it was lieutenant-commander Chaanur who was giving out the order.

“Sir, we can't hit cruisers with our heavy laser turrets,” a tactical officer replied into the void.

“Just fire damnit!”

The Reverence's laser turrets swivelled in the direction of the enemy cruisers, their barrels glowing with red light as the weapons heated up. Hot streams of laser fire arced toward the enemy cruisers just narrowly missing them. Like vultures chased from a dying carcass they retreated from the damaged Truth.

“The Justice is moving in to support the Truth. Enemy battlecruisers have changed targets— they are preparing to fire on us.”

The space in front of the Reverence became filled with multiple torpedo salvos.

“All hands, brace for impact,” the computer warning flashed across Rei's interface. The g-pods that protect the crew from the battle acceleration would also dampen the shock of incoming damage, but the electromagnetic interference from the nuclear explosions would still knock out the simulnet. Point defense lasers from the Vindication and their own ship, the Reverence, lashed out at the oncoming threat. They lit up the darkness of space with bight green and red lights seeking out their targets. One after another the torpedoes imploded, spinning off into space, but there were too many of them. Half of the enemy salvo had made it through the gauntlet. Even though it was a simulation created by the computer of outside events, Rei still flinched as the nuclear payloads ignited around the bow and starboard sides of the Reverence. Her fingers tightened around the arm-rests of her g-pod as the simulnet stopped responding. For a brief second she was in complete darkness. Then she heard it. A cry of pain. It was a man in anguish, like he had just been strapped across the back with a whip.

“Shields are holding.”

The simulnet rebooted and warning symbols flashed across the Reverence's sub-systems. Data from the other ships in the squadron also streamed in. The battle was worsening for the Seihon squadron. The sword sisters were engaged with two enemy cruisers and furiously exchanging fire.

“Enemy heavy cruisers are moving in from the rear of the Commonwealth squadron. Enemy battlecruisers are redirecting fire at the Vindication.”

Another volley of torpedoes launched from the enemy squadron. Rei could clearly that the Commonwealth squadron was planning to destroy the Reverence's escorts. She relayed the message immediately to lieutenant-commander Chaanur.

“Sir, enemy ships are focusing on our escort, the Vindication.”

The nimble ship wove through the clumsy volleys of slow moving torpedoes and focused its fire on the closest enemy destroyers. Its drones and lasers chipped away at the enemy but she knew their escort couldn't hold out much longer without support. Frantically she sent more reports to the lieutenant-commander.

“Sir, the Vindication's shield won't hold out much longer.”

The relay chatter died down. The lieutenant-commander didn't answer— he didn't give the order to support their escort. Rei watched helplessly as the crew of the Vindication bravely continued to fight.

“Enemy destroyer engines have been crippled. The Vindication's port side shields have failed. Enemy battlecruisers are firing another salvo.”

And still, the lieutenant-commander was silent. Rei watched in horror as nuclear blooms erupted around the Vindication. Escape pods streamed in all directions just before the fusion reactor collapsed. A massive ball of plasma engulfed the enemy destroyers that had been to close to the Vindication, their thick armour not enough to withstand the destructive power of the ships destruction. Finally the lieutenant-commander spoke.

“Navigation; turn the ship around, full impulse. Communications; order the Justice and Truth to engage and hold off the Commonwealth squadron for as long as possible.”

Rei couldn't believe what she was hearing, a retreat under these circumstances was unthinkable. Her hands were shaking and anger burned in her stomach. There was no way she could follow that order, no way she could abandon those life-pods and their comrades in arms who were still fighting.

“Sir, there are still life-pods from the Vindication floating in space, and the rest of our squadron is still engaged with the enemy.”

“Are you questioning my orders lieutenant Duunin?”

Even though it was only an echo of his voice over the relay, she could sense a sharp anger behind his words. The rest of the Commonwealth squadron was ignoring them. A single battleship was no threat to a squadron of eight cruiser sized vessels. A heavy silence hung over the chat relay. No one dared to speak. Rei didn't care any more, she was going to do what was right, even if she was going to disobey a superior officer... and a member of the royal family.

“This is the captain. I will take direct command. Bring us about and establish a firing-uplink with the rest of the squadron. Head for the wreckage of the Vindication and prepare the rescue shuttles.”

The chat relay flared back into life as the bridge crew accepted their new tasks without question. The lieutenant-commander had been in charge of this engagement, but the captains orders were absolute. Firing patterns and trajectory data streamed in from the sword sisters. Like an enraged beast the Reverence charged forward. Rei felt the hum of the fusion generator beneath her pod and could almost hear the ship sing in exhilaration. Heavy laser turrets swivelled about and fired in wide arcs toward the enemy ships. The enemy squadron's ships rolled evasively in response. It was unlikely the Reverence would hit anything but the awesome power of its lasers were enough to break the Commonwealth formation.

“Hyperspace signature detected 120km behind us— it's the main fleet.”

Hundreds of ships emerged from man-made wormholes behind them. Frigates to capital ships streamed out in perfect formation, and at the head of the fleet was the flagship of the Seihon Empires 2^nd fleet, the Spear of Destiny, a spear class super-dreadnought.

“Enemy squadron is retreating.”

Like a flock of birds running from a predator, the enemy ships turned around and fled from the massive fleet. Not a single shot was fired, there was no need.

“There is a direct line from the Destiny, captain.”

“Bring the Reverence to a halt and rescind the battle alert. Patch the line through to the main viewer.”

The massive battleship decelerated from battle impulse and the diffused red light on the bridge changed to a dull blue, indicating the ship was returning to normal operations. Rei severed her link to the simulnet and opened her eyes. Around her, the oxygen-rich liquid that kept her body alive under high g-force operations was draining away and the breathing apparatus in her mouth was pumping out the last of the fluid from her lungs. The clear door of her pod swung open with a hiss. Other bridge crew were exiting their g-pods, some coughing, others using towels to dry their hair. The g-pods were arranged in a semi-circle around a holographic projector on a raised dais. In the centre was the captains g-pod, flanked by the commander and lieutenant-commanders pods. The bridge darkened and before them the holo-projector flickered into life. A beautiful young woman stood before her pod, dressed in the Seihon Navy's black jumpsuit, but around her shoulder's was a silver mantle of a member of the Seihon Empire's ruling class.

“How are you doing old man?”

The captain kneeled before her and the bridge followed suit.

“Your highness, I am doing well. Your arrival has saved many lives, and the honour of the Seihon Empire.”

The princess closed her eyes, examining the carnage of the battle through the simulnet. She nodded nodded thoughtfully.

“You did well captain Suovik. I'll be sure to give you a commendation for your valiant efforts here today,” she opened her eyes and looked directly at the lieutenant-commander, who was kneeling next to the captain. “As for you, nephew. Do my eyes deceive me, or did you almost call a retreat?”

“N-N-No princess Chuokos, it was a tactical... ahh... manoevre.”

The princess crossed her arms.

“I certainly hope so. We don't want to stain them name of the royal family,” she looked around in curiously. “Where is the junior officer that questioned your orders, lieutenant- commander Chaanur?”

Rei's heart lodged in her throat. Her career was now over. Resolved to her fate she stood up revealing herself.

“Ahh, there you are... lieutenant Duunin, was it?”

Rei saluted crisply.

“Yes, your highness.”

“I'll be coming aboard personally to oversee your punishment. I would also like a detailed battle report about the vent that transpired here,” then she spoke to the rest of the bridge. “As for the rest of you, you are dismissed. My fleet will see tot he rescue of the Vindication's crew, and the repairs to the Justice and Truth.”

The crew stood up and saluted, and the holo-display went dark. Exhausted and hungry, they filed out of the bridge. Rei sighed and lowered her head in defeat.

“Lieutenant Duunin.”

She though everyone had left. The captain was standing at the doorway.

“Yes, captain.”

“Good job.” He smiled and nodded. Rei gave a salute to the departing captain. Slumping in her pod, she closed her eyes and reconnected. Methodically she began to summarize a battle report for the princess and admiral of the 2^nd fleet.

_____________________________

Rei took a deep breath. She clutched the data pad with the battle report tightly in her hand. The princess had summoned her to the special throne room, reserved for royalty. The doors of the throne room were meticulously crafted, and depicted a galaxy with a sword cutting through it vertically. Two royal marines stood either side the doorway. They didn't greet her or say a word when she arrived.

“Let her in,” came a muffled voice from the other side of the door.

With precise movements the guards moved to open the door and escort her in. Unlike the ships corridors, the throne room was lit with a decadent golden light that warmed the skin. The walls depicted a shifting blue sky line of broken clouds. Before her the princess sat with a perfect posture, and was speaking with captain Suovik. The guards stopped and kneeled, and Rei did the same.

“You can go. I don't want to be disturbed, don't let anyone in until I call for you again,” the princess waved away the guards.

Rei kept her head lowered and waited to be spoken too.

“I've spoken at length with the captain and he has nothing but good things to say about you.”

“Thank you, your highness.”

The princess stood up and walked towards the kneeling officer.

“Is that the report?” She said. “May I see it?”

Rei handed her the report without looking up. The princess flicked through it, scanning the relevant sections.

“So am I to assume, that my nephew is to blame for the outcome of this battle?”

Rei kept silent. The captain cleared his throat.

“I asked you a question lieutenant.”

“I-I don't know, your highness.”

Princess Chuokos grabbed her roughly by the chin, forcing her to look up.

“You don't know or you don't want to blame this disaster on a royal? Is that it!?”

A seething anger boiled inside Rei. First Chaanur and now this woman. She tried hard to keep her emotions in check.

“I'm sorry, your highness. The report shows all my findings.”

The princess turned to the captain.

“You're sorry! What about me? What about captain Suovik?,” a fierce look was in her eyes. “What am I going to tell the families of the men and woman who died today? What am I going to report to fleet command? Who is to blame for this mess!?”

Rei had had enough. Being abused after an exhausting day, even if it was royalty, was too much. She launched herself up and pushed the princess back.

“You are to blame! You and your Empire. If it wasn't for incompetent fools like Chaanur, the Vindication would have survived. I don't care what you do to me! I've had it up to here with the Empire and this war!”

After the outburst she gasped and covered her mouth. What had she done. If she thought there had been any chance to salvage the situation it was now well and truly beyond that point. The princess smiled, a smile of triumph.

“I agree.” She said.

Rei was confused. The captain had a bemused look on his face. The princess sat down on her thrown hugging one leg in a very unladylike fashion.

“I agree completely. The Seihon Empire is done. This war has drained us of our resources and soon the Commonwealth will seize our colony worlds. Monarchy didn't work on Earth and it's not going to work in space,” the princess's cool blue eyes betrayed a keen intelligence. “That is why I need you.”

Demon Curse - Chapter 1 - Second Draft

Chapter 1 - Godhart

“You have been summoned sire,” the initiate kneeled before the old templar. Godhart closed his book, the afternoon sun filtering through the stained glass windows of his spartan lodgings.

“Have you seen her initiate?” he asked.

The initiate lowered his head.

“Yes sire.”

Godhart stood up from his bed, and walked to the window that looked down into the courtyard. Down below, sworn acolytes were practising, their wooden swords clacking against each other.

“Well, what does she look like?”

“Sire?”

“Describe her to me.” He watched a boy in the yard get knocked over, holding his arms up he yielded to his opponent. Godhart remembered his own training, but back then it was much harder. He was an old man now, well past 40... well past adventures and battles.

“Well sire, she is like no woman I have ever seen. Her skin is dark like the foreign sailors at the docks, and she bears scars all across her body, she even has a scar across her eye – and her eyes, the colour of ice.”

The boy spoke excitedly, like he was relating something rare and fantastical.

“That's not even the half of it sire, her hair – red as fire, and she wears it like a man, short cropped.”

Godhart didn't doubt it was her. No respectable woman would look like that.

“Are you smitten boy?”

The initiates cheeks flushed, he bowed down apologetically.

“Where is she?”

“She is waiting in the patriarchs foyer, sire. Pater sent me to summon you as soon as she arrived.”

Godhart turned around. The boy kneeling before him was small and scraggly. Godhart knew that he would never become a templar with a body like that.

“What was your name again?”

“Paul sire.”

“Have you seen this book Paul?” Godhart motioned to the leather bound book he was holding. Paul shook his head.

“No sire.”

Godhart ran his finger lovingly down the books spine.

“This is no ordinary book,” he read the gold embossed title. “Litanies of Alleman.”

He opened the book and held it in front of Paul.

“Can you read, boy?”

Paul bowed again.

“I am still learning my letters sire.”

Godhart sighed. He was a boy like that once, young and unable to read. If it wasn't for his fighting abilities he would never have been accepted into the templar's brotherhood.

“You don't need need to read to appreciate this book. Here,” he showed him the lettering. “What do you notice about these letters?”

Paul took the book gently, like it was a priceless artefact.

“Sire, these letters aren't written by hand.”

Godhart beamed. There was some hope for this initiate yet.

“Very good boy. This book was printed on a machine, a printing press they call it. With this invention a thousand books can be printed in a day. In a hundred years every man, woman, and child in Deutzreich will own their own books.”

Paul nodded vigorously, but Godhart knew he had no concept of numbers over a dozen.

“Here, take it. Look after it for me.” he said.

The young boys eyes became wide with shock.

“B-b-but I can't – this book must be worth a fortune sire.”

Godhart smiled, the boy was right, it was a first edition and cost him five silvers, which was about his monthly stipend.

“Do you know the Litany of Charity?”

“I do sire.”

“Recite it for me.”

Godhart closed his eyes, listening to the monotone recitation.

“Alleman bless those who give freely and ask nothing in return. Alleman bless those who renounce wealth and are pure in spirit. Alleman bless those...”

The litanies of Alleman were music to his ears, there was nothing more beautiful in the world. Paul recited all six verses perfectly. When he finished Godhart opened his eyes again.

“Well done. Let's not keep the pater waiting any longer.”

Paul stood up hastily, clutching the book in his arms. Godhart let him lead the way. The sandstone halls of the temple of Alleman were alive with templars and their subordinates. Everywhere Godhart looked there were templars and acolytes attending to their tasks, templars teaching fighting arts and strategy or acolytes sitting quietly in the study halls and reading. Their order had come along way since he was an initiate. As they passed the martial practise courtyard, he caught sight of brother Luka, resplendent in a templar's full battle dress. His steel plate armour was polished and on the breastplate was an oak tree, the symbol of Alleman. Godhart listened to the lecture Luka was giving to the acolytes, as he walked by.

“When you take your vows and become a brother, this,” Luka pointed to his armour. “Is what you will wear to battle.” he pulled his sword out of his scabbard, the steel chafing against the hard boiled leather sheath. The acolytes around him took a step back.

“Don't be mistaken. A templar is more than armour.” With a quick thrust and slash he demonstrated his skill with the sword.

“A templar of Alleman is a holy warrior...”

Godhart wanted to stay and listen, but letting the elderly pater wait would be disrespectful. He hurried along after Paul, his simple sandles scratching across the flagstone hallway leading to the pater's offices. The pater's study stood at the heart of the temple compound. The main corridor leading to his study was lined with the statues of the patriarchs that had led the order. Godhart looked in awe as they passed each stern face, bearded, scarred and wise. At the very end of the hallway, presiding over the long line of patriarchs, was the founding father, revered pater Konrad. Paul stopped ten paces before the statue, letting Godhart ahead to pay his respects. Godhart got on his knees, bowing so low his forehead touched the ground. In quiet contemplation he paid his respects.

“Please madame, you cannot go any further.”

Godhart's silent prayers were interrupted by a young man's voice.

“Madame, please.”

The cool marble floor hid Godhart's scowl. Coming up behind him were the loud footsteps of an initiate who had not taken off his walking boots. The hall of pater's was a sacred place and he didn't take kindly to initiates or guests that disregarded the rules. Lifting his head from the ground he looked back to see an acolyte desperately trying to stop a woman. She walked with a cool determination and was heading straight for the pater's study. Godhart noted that she was tall for a woman and muscular, like no respectable woman should be. She wore knee high leather boots, white tunic, tarnished gold breastplate, gauntlets, pouldrens, greaves, and around her shoulders hung a green travel cloak. What Paul neglected to mention were her oddly long ears, ears that did not look human. He had to admit, she looked every bit like the alien warriors spoken of by the traders who came from the deep south.

“Madame, I must insist, you cannot carry weapons here.”

Hanging loosely from her hand was an ornate spear. The woman ignored the acolyte, like he didn't exist. She was almost at the dais of the founding pater. Godhart stood up and turned on her as she walked towards him. The acolyte behind him shrunk back when he saw Godhart's face. With her way barred she stopped in front of the old templar.

“Acolyte.” He said.

The acolyte behind the woman dropped to his knees, pressing his forehead to the ground.

“Why do you defile the hall of paters?”

The acolyte trembled in fear.

“Sire, please forgive me, she just rushed in, I couldn't stop her.”

Godhart's gaze shifted to the woman, her eyes met his. In those icy blue eyes he forgot himself for a moment.

“Sire?” The acolyte spoke to him.

“What!”

“Your punishment sire?”

He felt like he had lost a moment in time. Godhart cleared his throat.

“Well, um... write out the litany of piety 100 times. I will deal with the guest.”

“Yes sire.”

The acolyte bowed again, before standing up and hurrying off. Godhart dropped his head low, showing respect to the woman.

“I'm very sorry madame, but you will not be able to see patriarch Daniel while carrying a weapon.”

He looked up to see her reaction. Her expression did not change, while her eyes bored into his very being. For a moment he thought she hadn't understood him, but like a summer breeze she nonchalantly walked around him.

“Madame.”

She didn't listen. Godhart started forward.

“Madame.” He shouted, grabbing her by the arm. The woman froze.

“Madame, please, we have rules in the temple.”

She turned around slowly, the eyes that had once been cool and calm now blazed in fiery anger. For a moment an irrational fear enveloped him, but it was broken by a shout behind him. Pulling away from the woman he turned to see pater Daniel shuffling hurriedly towards them. The elderly pater was hunched over and his long white beard reached down to his knees. His white robe dragged across the ground, the hems dirtied by dust. Godhart immediately kneeled down, next to him Paul prostrated himself, touching his forehead to the ground.

“Venerated Lynian Pallatai.” Pater Daniel said with a smile on his face. He bowed as low as he could and raised his hand to his forehead as a sign of respect.

“How long has it been old man?” The woman said. Godhart was surprised, she spoke in a silvery tone, which was in direct contrast with her appearance.

“Have you been teasing my templar's again?” He said with a throaty laugh. She laughed as well, looking the old pater over.

“You need a walking stick Daniel.”

“The day I get a walking stick is the day I die, madame.”

He motioned to a set of heavy oak doors to the left of the hall.

“Shall we?”

Lynian walked ahead, pushing past the oak doors. Pater Daniel shuffled in front of Godhart and Paul.

“Paul”

“Yes pater.” The boy answered in a squeaky voice.

“Please go to the treasury and tell brother Niklas it is time.”

Paul stood up quickly, hurrying off to complete his task. Pater Daniel placed his hand on Godhart's shoulder.

“Come my boy. We have an important matter to discuss.”

Godhart bowed. Supporting the pater they entered the study together behind the woman.  

Second Draft - Path to the Stars

Path To The Stars

Chapter 1

The torpedoes streaked through the blackness of space, leaving ice vapour trails in their wake. Point defense lasers lit up the void in an arc across their trajectory. The lumbering battlecruiser tried to roll away from the incoming threat. Laser fire raked across the volley of torpedoes. One by one they ignited in space, collapsing into chunks of debris. But it was not enough, one, and then two torpedoes slammed home, their nuclear payloads imploding into brilliant balls of light. The shield around the battlecruiser's starboard side flickered briefly, allowing the rest of the torpedo volley to tear into the battlecruisers hull. Chunks of armour flew into space, exposing great rents in the ships hull and revealing its superstructure.

“The Sword of Truth is reporting critical damage, sir,” lieutenant Rei Duunin said, her voice echoing in the virtual representation of the battle. Data streams appeared around the wounded battlecruiser spurting out damage reports. The ships computer compiled the information overload into a human readable format. She dragged each of the reports to the tactical display and sent a summary to the commander and lieutenant-commander.

“Commonwealth cruisers Hestia and Saint Peter are coming about,” echoed over the relay channel.

The cruisers circled the Sword of Truth like vultures looking for easy prey. Hestia's port side auto-cannons flared into life, spitting hot rounds into the Sword of Truth. The battlecruisers armour crumpled against the onslaught.

“Deploy the heavy drones and re-align for a starboard battery. Support the Sword of Truth and target Hestia and Saint Peter's weapon systems.” The interface overlay indicated it was lieutenant-commander Chaanur was giving the order.

“Sir, we can't hit cruisers with our heavy laser turrets,” came the response from the void, it was the weapon systems officer. Messages from every sub-system of the Sword of Truth lit up Rei's tactical display, the ship couldn't hold out much longer.

“Just fire damnit!”

Hot streams of light flew towards Hestia and Saint Peter missing them narrowly, but it was enough. Both Commonwealth cruisers peeled off the Sword of Truth. The communication relay erupted into chatter.

“The Sword of Justice is disengaging and moving into support the Sword of Truth. Enemy battlecruisers Gaul and Essex have changed targets— they are firing on us.”

The pair of battlecruisers unleashed a salvo of torpedoes.

“Enemy Heavy destroyers Cairo and Hunley are moving into range. The Shield of Vindication is moving to intercept.”

They were outnumbered two to one. The Commonwealth squadron had eight ships in total, two battlecruisers, two heavy cruisers, two cruisers and two heavy destroyers. Their fleet only consisted of a battleship, two battlecruisers and a heavy cruiser. The Commonwealth fleet was going to move in to surround them, and there was nothing they could do about it. Rei realised that even with the Seihon Empire's superior technology, this battle was not in their favour.

“All hands, brace for impact,” the computer warning flashed across her interface. Point defense lasers from the Shield of Vindication and their own ship, the Tower of Reverence, lashed out at the oncoming threat. Laser fire lit up the darkness of space as the bright green and red lights sought out their targets. One after another the torpedoes imploded spinning off into space, but there were too many of them. Half of the salvo had made it through the gauntlet. Even though it was only a simulation created by the computer of the outside events, Rei still flinched as the nuclear payloads ignited around the starboard side of the Tower of Reverence. Her fingers tightened around the arm-rests of the concussion pod as the bridge rocked heavily from the impact. The simulnet returned static for a brief moment but the system rebooted itself in seconds. Warning symbols flashed across the Tower of Reverence and data streamed in from the ships sub-systems.

“Shields are holding.”

The Sword of Justice and her crippled sister ship, the Sword of Truth, were furiously exchanging fire with Hestia and Saint Peter. Laser fire from the Seihon ships splashed across of the Commonwealth cruisers, stripping away paint and melting armour plates. The cruisers answered with volley after volley of torpedoes and auto-cannon fire, which imploded against blue shimmering shields.

“Enemy heavy cruisers Aquila and Mary Rose are moving in from the rear of the Commonwealth squadron. Enemy battlecruisers Gaul and Essex are targeting the Shield of Vindication.”

The Shield of Vindication was only 20km ahead of them, but in an instant five of the enemy ships had engaged, launching a full volley of torpedoes. Rei could clearly see what the Commonwealth squadron was planning, they couldn't destroy the Tower of Reverence easily, so instead, they were going to destroy the escort. She relayed the message immediately to the lieutenant-commander.

“Sir, enemy ships are focusing on our escorts.”

The nimble Shield of Vindication wove through the fire fight, focusing on the two heavy destroyers. Its drones chipped away at the armour of Hunley, while its lasers cut down Cairo. Rei knew the heavy cruiser couldn't hold out much longer. Frantically she sent more reports to lieutenant-commander Chaanur.

“Sir, the Shield of Vindication's shields won't hold out much longer.”

The relay chatter died down. The lieutenant-commander didn't answer— didn't give out any orders. The Shield of Vindication was surrounded by debris.

“Hunley's engines have been damaged. The Shield of Vindication's port side shields have failed. Gaul and Essex are launching another salvo of torpedoes.”

And still, the lieutenant-commander was silent. Rei watched in horror as the Commonwealth torpedoes streaked towards the Shield of Vindication. The heavy cruiser didn't have enough power to avoid them. Point defense lasers splashed out destroying the first volley, but the second volley continued on its course. They ploughed into the port side of the Shield of Vindication, their nuclear payloads rupturing the superstructure and igniting the ship. Escape pods streamed in all directions only to collide and explode with the surrounding debris. With a massive shock wave the fusion generator collapsed. Hunley and Cairo were caught in the explosion, their armour not thick enough to withstand the searing heat. Finally the lieutenant-commander spoke.

“Navigation; Turn the ship around, full impulse. Communications; Order the Sword of Justice and the Sword of Truth to engage and hold off the Commonwealth squadron for as long as possible.”

Rei couldn't believe what she was hearing, a retreat was unthinkable. Her hands were shaking, there was no way she could follow that order.

“Sir, there are life-pods from the Shield of Vindication floating in space, and the rest of our squadron is still engaged with the enemy.”

“Are you questioning orders lieutenant?”

Even though it was only an echo of his voice over the relay, Rei could sense a sharp anger behind his words. The rest of the Commonwealth squadron was ignoring them. A battleship was no threat to cruiser sized vessels, and it was true that there was not much they could do to support the Sword of Truth and the Sword of Justice.

“This is the captain. I will take direct command,” the relay chatter ceased immediately. “Bring us about and establish a firing-uplink with the rest of the squadron. Head for the wreckage of the Shield of Vindication and prepare the rescue shuttles.”

The chat relay flared back into life as the bridge went about their new tasks. Firing patterns and trajectory data streamed in from the Sword of Truth and Sword of Justice. The Tower of Reverence's heavy laser turrets swivelled about and prepared to fire. Rei could feel the hum of the fusion generator beneath her pod. Beams of laser fire arced towards the skirmish around the two Seihon battlecruisers. Three of heavy lasers missed their mark, but a lucky shot grazed the Gaul, which rolled evasively in response. With renewed strength the Sword of Justice assaulted the surrounding enemy ships.

“Hyperspace signature detected, 120km behind us— it's the main fleet.”

Hundreds of ships emerged from man-made wormholes behind them. Frigates to capital ships, and at the fleets centre was the flagship of 2^nd fleet. The Spear of Destiny was a super-dreadnought class, and one of the largest ships in the Seihon navy.

“Enemy squadron is retreating. There is a direct line from the Spear of Destiny, captain.”

“Put it on the main viewer,” the captain said.

Everyone on the bridge opened their eyes, severing the link with the simulnet. Rei blinked twice trying to clear her blurry vision. She was lying in a raised concussion pod, designed to to protect, and if needed, eject her into space if the bridge was damaged. To her left and right were the other staff of the bridge, and behind them, on a raised dais, was the captains pod flanked by the commander and lieutenant commander's pods. The bridge was arranged in a semi-circle around a main holographic viewer, which flickered into life. A beautiful young woman stood before her pod dressed in the Seihon Navy's black jumpsuit, but around her shoulder's was a silver mantle.

“How are you doing old man?”

Rei craned her neck around. The captain lifted himself out of his pod and kneeled. The rest of the bridge followed suit.

“Your highness, I am doing well. Your arrival has saved many lives, and the honour of the Seihon Empire.”

The young woman closed her eyes, examining the carnage of the battle through the simulnet. She nodded her head thoughtfully.

“You did well captain Suovik. I'll be sure to give you a medal for you valiant efforts here today,” she opened her eyes and looked directly at the lieutenant-commander, who was kneeling next to the captain. “As for you, nephew. Do my eyes deceive me, or did you almost call a retreat?”

“N-N-No princess Chuokos, it was a tactical manoeuvre.”

The princess crossed her arms.

“I certainly hope so. Where is the junior officer that questioned your orders?”

Rei's heart lodged in her throat. All her hard work would now be undone. She stood up revealing herself.

“Ahh, there you are... lieutenant Duunin was it?”

Rei saluted crisply.

“Yes, your highness.”

“I'll be coming aboard personally to oversee your punishment. I would also like a detailed battle report about the events that transpired here,” then she spoke to the rest of the bridge. “As for the rest of you, you are dismissed. My fleet will see to the rescue of the Shield of Vindication's crew, and the repairs of the Sword of Justice and the Sword of Truth.”

The crew stood up and saluted, and the holo-display went dark. Exhausted and hungry, they filed out of the bridge. Rei sighed and lowered her head in defeat.

“Lieutenant Duunin.”

She thought everyone had left. The captain was standing at the doorway.

“Yes, captain.”

“Good job.” He smiled and nodded, before leaving the bridge. Rei gave a salute to the departing captain. Slumping into her pod, she closed her eyes and reconnected to the simulnet. Methodically she began the report she would hand to the princess and admiral of 2^nd fleet.

[Novel Excerpt] Path to the Stars

I've been working on a new novel concept which mixes elements of space opera, military science fiction, romance and crime thriller. This is the first draft of the first chapter, written from the perspective of the main character Rei Matsumoto.

Comments and critique highly appreciated.

Path To The Stars

Chapter 1 – Rei

"You are required on the bridge lieutenant." Rei opened her eyes to the grey interior of her quarters, dim blue lights pulsing eerily above her.

"Status report Ohime." she said.

"Enemy volley was fired 8 hours ago, collision estimated in three hours. Lieutenant-commander Mori has the bridge and is manoeuvring the Nagato for a broadside battery." The computer said in a metallic voice. Rei sat up rubbing her eyes. Her room was spartan, devoid of life and colour. A simple steel table sat next to her bed with a half-empty glass of water and small golden pin in the shape of a cherry blossom.

"And the enemy fleet? What are their movements?"

"Battleship Hestia, Ares, and Apollo are moving into firing position, estimated time before they can fire; 16 hours. Battlecruiser Leviathan took a direct hit from Heavy Cruisers Takao and Mogami; no damage reported."

Rei stood up and stretched. There was no time to fix her hair or take a shower, they were in a battle after all. She picked up her rank pin and fastened it the collar of her black jumpsuit.

"Please tell the bridge I am on my way." she said, stepping out of her quarters. The bridge was located at the centre of the ship, underneath the reactor core. Rei's footsteps echoed down the grey corridor as she walked toward the officers elevator. The temperature was a comfortable 21 degrees. Ensigns and Midshipmen stood aside and bowed respectfully as she passed. Underneath her feet she felt the reactor core humming away contently. The elevator to the bridge was just ahead of her. She quickened her pace, hoping she wouldn't run into any other officers.

"Good morning ma'am."

Rei froze. Looking to her right she saw a young ensign leaning against the wall and trying to look cool.

"What is it ensign Ito?"

Her abrupt reply broke his composure.

"Well...uh... I was wondering if you would like to have lunch with me at 1800?"

Rei sighed. Ensign Ito had been pursuing her for a while, but he was just not her type. His slicked back black hair and boyish face just didn't do it for her, and the glasses – she hated how he fiddled with his glasses when he was nervous. That aside, he didn't know how to ask a woman to lunch. Rei was looking for a man that would grab her by the hand and say 'Let's have lunch.' or 'I'll be in the cafeteria at 1800, come see me.'. She was looking for a man who knew what he wanted and would take it without hesitation, this is what she looked for in a man, this is what she aspired to be, dominant, and audacious. A silence stretched out between them, she was a coward, she couldn't tell him to his face that she wasn't interested...

"I'm required on the bridge... um... I'll see you around."

A smile stretched across his face. Not wasting another moment Rei stepped into the elevator.

"Ohime, bridge."

The elevator's doors closed.

"Understood."

Rei looked up at the pulsing lights above her, they were dimmer than usual. All secondary systems were on power reserve while they were in battle. She longed for the usual golden light, the dim blue just depressed her. She wasn't looking forward to the bridge either, especially when lieutenant-commander Mori was in charge. The elevator's doors opened and she started forward, only to have her way barred by tall man. The holo terminal read 'Male Officers Quarters B-6'.

"Well, well, well. If it isn't lieutenant Matsumoto."

He pushed past Rei into the elevator, squeezing her into the corner.

"Ohime, bridge." He said.

While the elevators doors closed he placed his hand next to her head, leaning over her. She could smell him, orange and pepper, a strong smell. Rei looked down to the ground. Sub-Lieutenant Kondo was a lower rank than her, but she just couldn't face him.

"What do you want sub-Lieutenant?" She said.

He got closer, she could feel the heat of his body, his face was right next to her.

"You smell good Matsumoto."

Rei tried to pull away.

"I-I'm a superior officer." She said meekly.

The sub-lieutenant grabbed the back of her head roughly.

"Women don't belong in space, it's bad enough you enlisted, but becoming a Lieutenant and ordering around men..." he held her hair painfully. "Is unacceptable."

The elevator doors hissed open. Rei pushed him away. He stepped out of the elevator smoothing out his hair. She hated him, she hated him more than anything. She wiped her eyes, they had become moist. She felt like crying.

"Lieutenant Matsumoto reporting for duty." She said, her voice faltering for an instant. The bridge was made up of three levels, interconnected by walkways. In the centre of the bridge was a raised dais were the captain sat, next to it were two other chairs for the commander and lieutenant-commander. The captains chair turned towards her, in it sat lieutenant-commander Mori.

"Ahh you finally made it Matsumoto."

Rei bit her lip, he didn't address her by her rank.

"I called sub-lieutenant Kondo five minutes ago and yet you arrive at the same time. I hope you haven't forgotten that we are in the middle of a battle?"

She stood at ease, hands clasped tightly behind her back.

"Sub-lieutenant Kondo is in B-6, my quarters are —" Mori cut her off.

"Female officers quarters. Yes, I am well aware. So you think just because you have a pair of tits you can take your time coming to the bridge?"

Mori spoke so loudly that all three levels of the bridge could hear him. Some of the men laughed, the only two other women on the bridge only looked at her with pity. Mori always treated her like this, disrespecting her on the bridge, in the corridors, and in front of the lower ranks. An intense anger burned in Rei's stomach, she felt like she was about to snap. Holding herself together she spoke evenly.

"You called me to the bridge?"

A malicious smile spread across Mori's face, Kondo sniggered at his post.

"Yes I did. I have a very important task for you."

He leaned forward putting his hands together.

"I would like you to serve tea to the bridge."

The bridge roared in laughter. Rei's throat constricted, she felt angry, she felt like bursting into tears. She just stood there, like a single tree weathering the storm.

"Excuse me sir?" She said, voice shaking.

"You heard me lieutenant Matsumoto, don't make me repeat myself."

This time he emphasised her rank. Rei's nails dug painfully into her palm, she hoped the pain would stop her from snapping, from running forward and beating the seven hells out of Mori. She was about to open her mouth and say something regretful, when a booming voice rang out across the bridge.

"What are you doing in my chair lieutenant-commander."

The bridge became deathly quiet, Mori froze, panic in his eyes.

"I asked you a question lieutenant-commander."

Rei watched the captain walk past her and their eyes met for an instant, her heart jumped and she looked down quickly.

"Well?" the captain said.

Mori jumped from the chair and dropped to his knees, prostrating himself in front of the captain.

"I'm terribly sorry captain Kato, I forgot myself."

Rei felt a deep satisfaction watching Mori get what he deserves.

"So you think you are good enough to sit in the captains chair?"

Mori's forehead touched the ground and he kept still.

"I thought so."

He walked past the prostrated man and sat down in his chair.

"Lieutenant Matsumoto."

Rei looked up, eyes straight.

"Yes captain."

"Bring me some tea."

Rei brought her hand up in a salute.

"Yes captain."

She bowed low and turned, making her way to the elevator thinking, that is how a man asks for tea.

The cafeteria was bustling with people. There were two lines, one for officers and one for enlisted ranks. Rei estimated there were almost 500 people cramped into the hall, waiting to get breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The Nagato had three of these cafeterias, C-A, C-B, and C-C, spread across the ship to feed the 60,000 crew. To the left of the serving counters was a little door with a sign that read 'Strictly: Staff only'. It was a very limited privilage to access this door, only kitchen staff and command officers had this privilage, fortunately she knew someone in the kitchen who would turn a blind eye to her entry, especially if it was a request from the captain. With her head held high and a confident stride she walked towards the door.

"Hey you."

The cafeteria was noisy, she wasn't sure if it was just her imagination that someone was calling out to her. She reached for the handle of the door.

"Hey."

She felt a hand on her shoulder and whirled around to the angry face of a kitchen hand.

"What is it shipman?" she said. Shipmen was the lowest enlisted rank on the ship, and the penalty for laying a hand on an officer by an enlisted rank was severe.

"That door is for kitchen staff and command officers only." He put his hands on his hips, people started looking in their direction. Rei's face became flushed. She pointed to the golden pin on her collar. The kitchen hand leaned forward, looking closely at it.

"Hmm... that's ahhh..."

"Lieutenant, shipman." He looked up at the ceiling counting on his fingers.

"Midshipman, ensign, sub-lieutenant, lieutenant, lieutenant-commander, commander, captain..."

He held up seven fingers in triumph. "You are one rank from a commanding officer. Come back when you get promoted." He said matter of factly. Other kitchen staff were waiting behind the kitchen hand who was arguing with her, all wanting to get into the kitchen.

"Listen here shipman, I was sent by the captain for tea." She said more loudly then she wanted. The shipman pointed to the officers line.

"The captain is an officer isn't he, he can wait for his tea like everyone else."

Rei was dumbstruck, she wasn't sure if this shipman was stupid or just pulling her leg. She grabbed the white jumpsuit of the kitchen hand.

"Get the hell out of my way shipman or I will put you in the brig for insubordination."

The kitchen hand put up his hands.

"Hey now, no need to get violent. Rules are Rules."

Rei could see other kitchen staff looking at her angrily. She was making a scene, but she had no choice, it was the captains order. Behind her the kitchen door opened. She felt someone reach out and grab her arm, pulling her inside. A woman with black hair pulled her along the endless racks of cooking stoves and kitchen tops. The cooks didn't look up, they were too busy with their work to notice an officer passing through. Up ahead was a small door. The woman pulled her inside a little room, furnished with nothing more than a chair and a couch. Slamming the door closed the woman pinned Rei to the wall.

"So, you finally came to take up my offer?"

She pushed her face into Rei's hair, nibbling on the nape of her neck. Rei giggled and pushed her away.

"Stop it." she said laughing. "I can never tell when you are serious."

The woman looked into her eyes. Her almond shaped eyes were beautiful. Men scrambled to be with her, giving her gifts and sending her love letters. Rei knew her as Ship(wo)man Keiko Sasaki, the woman no man could have.

"I know you want to." Keiko said in a sultry voice, she ran her hands over the tight black jumpsuit caressing Rei's breasts.

"Sorry, I don't swing that way." Rei said, grabbing Keiko's arm and twisting it back. Rei had enlisted with Keiko, they had gone to the same high school.

"Mhhm... I like it rough."

Rei enjoyed visiting her friend, even though she was a bit strange. She was, afterfall, one of the only people she could really trust on the ship.

"I need your help." Rei said.

"Anything for you dear." Keiko squirmed in her grip and Rei released her.

"The captain asked for tea, can you please organise it for me."

Keiko straightened immediately when she heard the rank of captain. Turning around she raised a mock salute.

"Understood lieutenant, the captains tea will be prepared on the double. Please wait outside, I will bring it to you."

Rei smiled.

"Thanks."

Keiko rushed out the door and Rei walked back the way she had come.

Rei carried the tray onto the bridge. There was a single cup for the captain, with powdered green tea and a kettle. She walked past lieutenant-commander Mori who was still prostrated on the ground, and hadn't moved since she left. She presented the tray to the captain with a bow. Captain Kato took it without thanks.

"Return to your post lieutenant."

"Yes captain." she saluted smartly and walked to her command console, which was located just in front of the captain's dais.

"Lieutenant-commander Mori, give me a status report."

Mori mumbled something from the ground.

"Are you stupid lieutenant-commander, stand up before I demote you!" captain Kato's voice boomed across the bridge. Rei heard the lieutenant next to her snigger. She glanced back to see Mori looking at her, absolute murder in his eyes. She quickly turned her attention back to the command console, but continued listening, enjoying every bit of Mori's humilation.

"I know you got this post through family connections lieutenant-commander, but connections mean jack shit on a closed vessel, in space, in battle. Do you understand me!"

"Yes captain."

Rei didn't dare to turn around again.

"If I had my way I would promote someone useful to be lieutenant-commander... hmmm... like..."

Complex calculations and holographic projections flew across the command console, Rei was only half-listening to the captains conversation.

"Like lieutenant Matsumoto. She would be a damn sight more useful than you."

Her hand slipped and the algorithm on the screen returned an error. Rei couldn't believe what captain Kato had just said.

"Isn't that right lieutenant." the captain was speaking to her. If she agreed with him, Mori's bullying would get worse, if she disagreed... well, she would be demoted, nobody disagrees with the captain. Rei screwed her eyes tightly shut, gathering all her courage. A demotion was better than dealing with Mori.

"No captain."

The bridge went quiet, only the beeps from the consoles continued as they relayed critical reports. Rei could hear the captain standing up and walk up behind her, his boots echoing loudly.

"What did you say?" he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "Explain yourself lieutenant."

She shrank back, shoulders drooping.

"I-I-I'm not worthy captain." her voice quivered.

The bridge was enveloped in utter silence. Nobody moved.

"You have to be careful lieutenant-commander Mori, not only is she smart, but she also has the guts to disagree with the captain of a ship. Those are the true qualities of a commanding officer. She might take your position someday."

She had made the situation even worse. She could feel it in the air, emanating from Mori, an aura of intense hatred.

"Regardless, give me that status report."

Captain Kato returned to his seat. Mori began giving a detailed report from the last 8 hours. Rei could feel the tense atmosphere, pushing her down, making it hard for her to breath. Lieutenant-commander Mori wouldn't let this go unpunished.

Rei hurried down the corridor toward her room. She half-expected Mori to be waiting outside the bridge, but was relieved when she didn't see him. He finished his shift 6 hours ago and was probably asleep. She almost broke into a run when she saw the holo-label 'Female Officers Quarters', all she wanted to do was curl up on her bed and hide. The door to her quarters hissed open. Her room was dark, darker than usual.

"Ohime, please brighten the lights."

There was no reply. It was not uncommon for the computer to malfunction. Reluctantly she turned to leave her quarters. She would have to see maintenance first.

"Don't move."

Someone was behind her. An arm reached around and she could feet cold steel brush against her throat.

"I'm going to make you pay bitch."

She recognized the voice, it was Mori, and his breath smelled of alcohol.

"I'm sorry." She said meekly.

Tears started rolling down her cheeks.

"Please don't hurt me."

A deep throaty laugh sent fear through her body.

"I'm going to do much worse... much, much worse. If you scream, if you resist – I'll kill you."

She didn't doubt for a second, that in his drunken state, he wouldn't pull through on his threats. He walked her to the bed, pulling the knife down, slowly cutting her jumpsuit across the chest. With his other hand, he fondled her breasts.

"I've wanted to do this for a long time." He said.

"Please..."

She started to sob, but Mori only started to breath faster. She could feel him pressing against her, his member becoming erect. He started moving the blade further down, slitting her jumpsuit in half. Rei closed her eyes, she couldn't believe what was happening. She wanted a man who took what he wanted, but not like this.

"Look at me." He said.

She turned around, but was met with blinding pain. He had struck her across the face.

"Stupid bit—"

Rei heard a thump. She could smell blood. She wanted to scream.

"Shhh."

It was a different voice.

"Who's there?" she said.

Someone embraced her. She tried to pull away, but the stranger held her tightly. Her hands ran across his face. He was wearing glasses.

"Shhh. You're safe now." He said in a gentle voice.