by Kyla

Created on: February 18, 2009   Last Updated: April 16, 2009

Excerpt of my science fiction novel 'Valiant', set in 22nd century Earth and surrounding space systems.

*

"Sir. 100 of our finest ships have almost reached Xentra. The advance force will be to the outer station soon."

Or'Nek listened in silence to the report. It pleased him, but he wouldn't let the lowly one see. "What about our follow-up fleet?" he asked, keeping his voice strictly neutral.

"Will arrive directly on schedule great one." the young one answered.

Or'Nek nodded and waved the lowly one out. As soon as the door had shut completely, Or'Nek rubbed his hands together. He felt as giddy as a lovesick yearling, and for good reason.

He, Or'Nek Gabada, would accomplish what no Minister before him had been able to. He would conquer Earth!

*

"The Centauri are approaching Xentra. There is hardly any defense force in place, but we do believe we can get reinforcements there soon." Macrine glanced around the table at the SN Command staff. "Pluto Station Alpha Major is directly in their line of flight. "

"We just received the comm from Commander Kim. The smaller ships which are there have had their refits completed, but there's still nine dead weights docked." Grady spoke up.

Admiral Hill emitted a sound that sounded queerly like a strangled gurgle. "You're sure it's Alpha Major?"

"Positive." Macrine answered, puzzled. "Why?"

Admiral Hill shook himself, as if breaking himself from a reverie. "Nothing. We have to do something."

"We're rushing reinforcements, but there's no guarantee they'll arrive in time." Jettin's voice was cool and calculating, as always.

"I'll personally take charge of the force." Admiral Hill said. "With your permission, of course." Macrine just nodded, granting permission. He had heard rumors about Hill's son being at Station 11. It was best that Hill go to join him.

*

"No, no, no Mr. Hill." Richard Harold's voice, laden with something like shock, came from behind Jack.

Jack straightened, and looked at the somber sec officer. Harold had been happier over the past few days than any of the Valiant crew had thought possible- and twice as picky. It had been almost a week since the Captain's announcement. The Valiant was almost done with her refit, and the entire crew was exultant that they'd soon be back onboard- even if they were being joined by a complement of Martian soldiers directly afterwards.

Jack looked with long-suffering patience at Harold. "Yes?"

Harold reached around him and carefully (minutely, Jack couldn't help thinking.) adjusted Jack's arm, and

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