Project Odyssey (A Metal Hero story)

[Black Fang]

Chapter 11: Move, Countermove​

Three military helicopters flew into the city airspace and landed on the park grounds. A team of soldiers filed out of these choppers. All of them were clad in armor produced by Lincoln Cartwright’s company and bearing the weapons made by Dr, Mendoza’s lab.
“Ok men” instructed their leader. “Let’s see what these things can do.”
The soldiers began firing large heavy bazookas at the Phytomorphs, lacing them with caulking material. From the helicopters they fired rounds of bullets containing flammable liquid.
“Everyone form a perimeter around the park! Don’t let any of these weeds get out!”
He waved a group of soldiers to the frontal area of the main edifice of the park, a Greco-Roman style structure consisting of a hall of pillars. At the center was a large inner garden and fountain surrounded by pillars and the building itself. The commander grimaced; in a few moments this place might fit in well with the preserved ruins of ancient Greece.

The weapons were having their effect, but the monsters continued on undaunted. For the rest of the day, the echoes of shouts and artillery fire permeated the city...

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Carver was smiling. Perry was feeling more uncomfortable by the minute.
“I will admit, you and Mr. Hensley’s crew have been an annoyance. But despite your efforts our experiment has gone through quite nicely. The Phytomorphs, as you call them, are a perfect weapon.”
“Weapon? For whom?” Perry stared into Carver’s eyes, searching for answers. Suddenly he came to a realization and started backing away.
“I’m afraid you can’t leave just yet, Mr. Shankar” said Carver, taking a step forward. “Not until we clear some things up.”
This was impossible. Yet it seemed clear to Perry that Carver Santana was not what he appeared.
“What are you going to do?”
“Don’t worry, I shall not harm you. But if you leave before we’re done, he will.”
The familiar sound of mechanical footfalls came from behind Perry. Without turning, he could feel Astro coldly aiming his weapons at him.
“You’re one of them.”
Carver only continued to smile…

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*Opening Theme plays*
(Tokusou Exceedraft OP Instrumental)

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Back on the Moon, the Yankee Clipper had at last been repaired and given clearance to depart. The administrators of the base were all too happy to see them leave after the disruption their arrival had caused, and were still feuding with their counterparts on Earth on how to deal with them.
“It’s just as well. I don’t plan on coming back here for a good long time” said Christian to the others as they made ready to take off.
“It’s too desolate here” Valentina agreed. “I don’t know how you take it” she added to Seraphina and Jaden.
“We should go with you” said Seraphina. “There’s nothing we can do here.”
“Until we know what we’re up against, it’s best we act normally” said Lincoln in a low voice. “On the plus side, both Falcon and Surveyor have been repaired. They’ll be waiting for us when we return.” He shook both their hands. “We best be leaving before tower control changes their mind.”
“They just might” said Oliver. “Look at this.”

He was watching a viewscreen displaying a live feed from Earth. A swarm of pitcher plant Phytomorphs were attacking a city and being fought off by teams of soldiers. All of them were sporting weapons created from Dr. Mendoza and her team’s research by Lincoln’s company.
“They seem to be doing a good job on their own” said Toby.
“We should get down there anyway and give a hand” said Oliver. “Let’s move.”
Quickly the crew got the final preparations underway. Soon the ship was soaring away from the Moon back to Earth. Jaden and Seraphina watched after them until they disappeared…

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Carver Santana arrived on scene and had his car be brought onto a rooftop parking lot. He exited and nonchalantly stood over the edge, watching the plant-like aliens cause their mayhem. Behind him Perry Shankar stood quietly. He dared not escape for he felt Astro’s cold stare upon him. Fireballs and artillery exploded all over the street. The monsters were voracious. Little could stop them.

[ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=alkhsNfUap0"]*Insert Song plays*[/ame]
(‘The Longest Day’ by Real Life)​

"Make way!" Oliver called down. He swooped down on top of the Clipper, sending a stream of fire at the Phytomorphs. Carver bristled but retained his composure. Perry gave the ship a small, unseen nod.

Oliver leapt down and used his Cytector’s thrusters to land gently in front of a group of Phytomorphs. As they came in close, he brought out his chainsaw, but two of them grabbed his legs and threw him up in the air. Oliver was flipped backward and landed on his stomach onto a nearby scaffolding. Fortunately Valentina and Toby had touched down to confront the monsters. And rolling out to join them was the restored Surveyor. It skidded to a halt and blasted away at the horde.
“Nice show there, Ollie” joked Toby. Oliver had to laugh. Only the second time this rookie had the suit and he was already being cocky.

Carver summoned Perry to stand by him. Astro encouraged him forward and the imposter waved down at the scene.
“Take a look at what we have created! This is just a sample of what’s to come!”
“Come where?” Perry demanded. “Are you going to invade Earth?”
Carver looked at the astronaut for a moment and realized what he had blurted. He then gave a pitying laugh, like what one gives an ignorant child that thinks he is greater than he is.

Activating his scanner, Christian looked for any more Phytomorphs coming their way while Val, Oliver and Toby fended off the remainder with them. He found another horde coming from the right at an intersection. In minutes they would be in view of everyone on this street.
“More coming our way, gang.”
“Let’s try the homing missile” Lincoln radioed from the Clipper. Christian looked around for the control and pushed the lever forward. A small missile shot out of one of Surveyor’s turrets, rocketed down the street and turned the corner as the Phytomorphs approached. It then split into dozens of smaller missiles and rapidly found their targets. Christian jumped out of the vehicle and joined his teammates. The coast now seemed clear.
“Good shooting” commended Lincoln. “Good work all of you.”

Meanwhile, Carver continued to smile.
“Are you expecting me to rage, Mr. Shankar? This little band of would-be heroes is not even worth our attention. The experiment is proving a success.”
“I wouldn’t get too cocky too fast” Perry admonished quietly.
“If you truly knew what we are, you wouldn’t say such a thing. But maybe the only thing to convince you would be to deal with these four myself.”
Carver walked back to his car. Astro prompted Perry to follow.
“Anyone can kill a bunch of mutant brutes.”

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The jubilee didn’t last very long. That evening as the crew was together in a headquarters conference room watching the news’ take on the day’s events, the stations broke away to a press conference being held by Dr. Mendoza’s organization.
“What’s this about?” asked Toby. Oliver shrugged but he had an unsettling feeling as he tuned in to the spokeswoman.
“…and so with the news about the robot named Astro destroying the laboratory and killing several dozens of people, and the blatant usurpation of Lincoln Cartwright and his company of our research without warrant, Dr. Mendoza is hereby resigning from her position on the Alan Shepard Station and severing all ties between NASA and our team. We hope that we can now continue to research these Phytomorphs as they’re called without interference or divided interests, and get to the bottom of what they are and where they’ve come from…”

The crew sat in silence. None of them were particularly shocked by this; Mendoza’s objection to destroying the Phytomorphs was well-known. But to take such an extreme step in the middle of what could be a growing conspiracy was, to put it lightly, a very ill-timed move.
“How could she do this now?” asked Christian. “What are we going to fight with?”
“Leave her to me” said Lincoln. He had just started his evening cigar, but hearing this news had taken away his appetite, and it now lay dead in the ashtray. “I’ll make her see sense…”
“You haven’t had luck before” said Oliver. “I don’t think she’s going to reverse herself now after coming out like this.”
“Well someone has to set her straight! I’m tired of her selfishness. If we can’t all reach some common ground more people are going to die!”
They looked back to the TV.
“So what do we do?” asked Toby after a moment of silence.
“Let’s find Astro and get him to talk” said Oliver suddenly. “Someone clearly rebuilt him after our last meeting. He might know who they are.” It was a long shot, but perhaps the rouge robot was their chance to defeat these creatures for good…

TO BE CONTINUED
*Ending Theme plays*
(‘Faith of the Heart’ from Star Trek: Enterprise)

Next Time
*Next Episode Promo Theme plays*
(‘Spielban yokokuhen ongaku’ from Jiku Senshi Spielban)​

The crew of the Yankee Clipper discover Perry Shankar is on Earth; Carver Santana appears before them and reveals his secret.

 

[Black Fang]

Chapter 12: The Menance​

"Make way!" Oliver called down. He swooped down on top of the Clipper, sending a stream of fire at the Phytomorphs. Carver bristled but retained his composure. Perry gave the ship a small, unseen nod.

Oliver leapt down and used his Cytector’s thrusters to land gently in front of a group of Phytomorphs. As they came in close, he brought out his chainsaw, but two of them grabbed his legs and threw him up in the air. Oliver was flipped backward and landed on his stomach onto a nearby scaffolding. Fortunately Valentina and Toby had touched down to confront the monsters. And rolling out to join them was the restored Surveyor. It skidded to a halt and blasted away at the horde.
“Nice show there, Ollie†joked Toby. Oliver had to laugh. Only the second time this rookie had the suit and he was already being cocky.

Activating his scanner, Christian looked for any more Phytomorphs coming their way while Val, Oliver and Toby fended off the remainder with them. He found another horde coming from the right at an intersection. In minutes they would be in view of everyone on this street.
“More coming our way, gang.â€
“Let’s try the homing missile†Lincoln radioed from the Clipper. Christian looked around for the control and pushed the lever forward. A small missile shot out of one of Surveyor’s turrets, rocketed down the street and turned the corner as the Phytomorphs approached. It then split into dozens of smaller missiles and rapidly found their targets. Christian jumped out of the vehicle and joined his teammates. The coast now seemed clear...

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“…and so with the news about the robot named Astro destroying the laboratory and killing several dozens of people, and the blatant usurpation of Lincoln Cartwright and his company of our research without warrant, Dr. Mendoza is hereby resigning from her position on the Alan Shepard Station and severing all ties between NASA and our team. We hope that we can now continue to research these Phytomorphs as they’re called without interference or divided interests, and get to the bottom of what they are and where they’ve come from…â€

The crew sat in silence. None of them were particularly shocked by this; Mendoza’s objection to destroying the Phytomorphs was well-known. But to take such an extreme step in the middle of what could be a growing conspiracy was, to put it lightly, a very ill-timed move.
“How could she do this now?†asked Christian. “What are we going to fight with?â€
“Leave her to me†said Lincoln. He had just started his evening cigar, but hearing this news had taken away his appetite, and it now lay dead in the ashtray. “I’ll make her see sense…â€
“You haven’t had luck before†said Oliver. “I don’t think she’s going to reverse herself now after coming out like this.â€
“Well someone has to set her straight! I’m tired of her selfishness. If we can’t all reach some common ground more people are going to die!â€
They looked back to the TV.
“So what do we do?†asked Toby after a moment of silence.
“Let’s find Astro and get him to talk†said Oliver suddenly. “Someone clearly rebuilt him after our last meeting. He might know who they are.â€

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*Opening Theme plays*
(Tokusou Exceedraft OP Instrumental)

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Carver Santana stood in the middle of a lonely highway at the break of dawn. The regular morning traffic would not start for some time yet, so he and his guests would be guaranteed some privacy. He raised his head toward a dark shape floating in the sky. Upon first glance it would have appeared as a cloud, but in truth it was a large vessel that had before now been hidden within the planet. He tapped a controller on his wrist, and the vessel began to release thousands of dangerously sharp crystals in a downpour fashion. It slowly moved from here to a nearby highway town. Whatever people who were up and about quickly began ducking for cover. Those who couldn’t ended up sprawled and bleeding on the ground.

As the Falcon flew in, Christian surveyed the scene.
“What is this?â€
Debbie opened a small collector on top of the ship and gathered some of the falling crystals. At the collecting station she examined her catch.
“They’re giant crystals of some kind†she reported back. She tried to pick one up and threw it back as it burned her. “And they’re hot.â€
“There’s something on that road down there†said Valentina. She pointed to a glowing dot on a screen that was colored differently from the ones representing the humans on the ground.
“Another Phytomorph?â€
“Let’s see.â€

Christian suited up, lowered himself out of the ship and quickly jetted to the spot on the road. The painful crystal drops harmlessly bounced off his Cytector like sleet. What he saw surprised him.
“Mr. Santana? What are you doing here?â€
Falcon flashed a light onto the road as the team zoomed in on the scene.
“Who is that?†asked Debbie.
“Carver Santana. A NASA bureaucrat†Lincoln answered from HQ. “You’d best take cover from those crystals. We don’t know how they may affect the ship.â€
Oliver made to do so but giant silver coils suddenly emerged from the cloud-like vessel and grabbed Falcon. Waves of energy went through the coils and crashed against the ship, and other smaller coils inserted themselves in various places on the ship.

Glancing back at the ship, then back to the unusually calm Carver, Christian tensed up.
“Get someplace safe. We’ll take care of this… thing.â€
Sparks burst throughout the ship. Lights flashed in rapid succession. Toby and Oliver wrestled with the controls, rocking the ship around to free itself from the coils.
“Toby… get the weapons up. Let's blast free!â€
“My pleasure†Toby slammed his hand down on the button, letting forth a barrage of missiles at whatever was holding them in place….
“Nothing happened.â€
“What??â€
“I hit it dead on! Not even a graze! The missiles just vanished!â€
Another surge of energy crashed into them. Falcon began to buckle. “They just washed and waxed this thing too†Toby mumbled half-jokingly.
“Toby, you stay here. Val and I will try to cut these coils off.â€
Toby angrily fired another set of missiles to no avail.
“Forget it Toby, you’re just gonna waste the arsenal.â€
“Doesn’t this have robotic arms like the Clipper? Maybe I can pry these coils off.
“Good idea. Get to it!â€
Oliver and Valentina suited up and exited a hatch to the outside of the ship. Toby released the arms while he searched on the sensors for anything that could tell what their captor was.
“Guys I have another idea!â€

The two astronauts jumped onto the top of the ship and started shooting and cutting the coils. In response a coil shot out and wrapped tightly around Valentina, pinning her arms to her sides and jolting her with energy. Seeing this, Oliver aimed his arm cannon at the coils and fired to break them off. Valentina began to scream out in pain as her Cytector went haywire. Oliver jumped forward and used his saw to sever the coils, but the energy used the weapon as a conductor and zapped him as well.
“Alright, hold on tight to something!†Toby radioed.
Valentina dropped to her knees. The crystal rain began to slice through her suit, exposing the insides. Finding herself out of options, the engineer flipped the Attack Mode switch on her waist. A strong surge of power erupted from her suit and met the energy coming through the coils, causing an explosion that broke her free and sent her flying toward the rear of the ship.
“Val!†called Oliver. She lay motionless in her now powerless, locked-down suit.
“Damn…. that hurt†she whispered before passing out.
“NOW!†yelled Toby.
“Wait, hold on!†Oliver yelled back, grabbing onto Val’s body. “What are you gonna do?!â€
“Tearing us away. Hold on, I’m going full impulse!â€

Before Oliver could respond, Toby fired the engines at full power. The Falcon burst forward and went right under the mysterious ship holding them hostage. The coils that still bound them stretched for a bit and then violently snapped, leaving parts of them still embedded in the vessel. At her station, Debbie was forcefully slammed into a wall and hit her head hard. Oliver had no time to use his spikes to hold on, and he and Valentina were sent flying into the air. Oliver felt the scorching heat from the engines and blessed the luck of his thermo-resistant suit. But now he had another problem: how to keep him and Val from crashing to the ground. Thinking quickly, he activated his jet pack and secured his grip on her. He fought to stabilize himself and eventually managed to descend to the ground. However he wasn’t granted a smooth landing; they crashed through trees and rolled onto the grass near the highway.
“Guys!!†Toby yelled, realizing what had happened. “Oliver! Val!â€
“Down on the ground†Oliver called back, picking himself up and limping toward Valentina. He was going to need a word with the young hotshot at the end of today…

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Meanwhile Christian and Carver watched the overhead battle.
“A bold move†Carver commented upon seeing Toby’s stunt.
“You don’t seem very shocked by all this†said Christian. “Is there something you’re not telling us?â€
“There is a lot I haven’t yet told you†said Carver. “That’s why I’m here. I think I’ve held back long enough. You lot have been a nuisance long enough anyway.â€
Oliver stumbled to their spot and collapsed on the ground. He inhaled deeply and forced himself to his feet. Valentina was only beginning to stir where he had left her.
“What’s going on?â€
Oliver turned to see Carver and then looked back at Christian.
“That’s what I’m about to find out.†Christian made a step forward. “We’ve been a nuisance to whom? You? What do you have to do with these plants?â€
A shadow appeared to cover part of Carver’s face, as though hinting at the dreaded secret.
“You were right that the Phytomorphs were artificially created. We created them. This has all been an experiment to test their virility, and I am the overseer.â€
“The overseer?†Oliver repeated. He then remembered something Toby had said. “You… you’re not human… are you?â€
“Very astute, Mr. Hensley. My colleagues didn’t think you would catch on that quick.â€

The shadow on his face moved over the rest of his body, which itself began to change shape into something inhuman. It still bore the basic resemblance of a human, but even with the shadow concealing his body one could see the vestiges of something more horrid. Oliver and Christian stepped back; suddenly they were filled with a sense of terror. Carver Santana, or rather the being that had pretended to be him, slowly moved toward them, the shadow moving with him to hide his full form.
“What’s happened down there?†called Toby. “I just got a huge spike in energy reading.â€
“Who are you?†demanded Christian. “Where’s the real Carver Santanna?â€
“He was taken care of a long time ago. Replacing him proved a simple task.â€
“He’s dead then?â€
“Very good Mr. Decker. If I need someone to point out the obvious, you’ll be the first I call.â€
Valentina then stumbled in to join her teammates. “Ow, that hurt like hell…†Her thoughts were then diverted by the sight of the alien imposter and she jumped back.
“You were a factor we could ignore in our experiments, even an entertaining one. But you’re starting to get boring. Now I will personally dispose of you so we can conclude our objective. Just as we did with the Odyssey.â€
Oliver was startled. So this was what had befallen the Odyssey, their friends and their teacher Perry Shankar. Foul play all along.

A resolve began to take root within the young astronaut. He slowly stepped forward, drawing forth his arm-mounted saw. “Wanna bet?â€
He looked to the others. “I say we take you down and get the whole story. You’d tell us what you did with the Odyssey. And then I’ll personally take care of you.â€
“Fighting words†said Carver. “But from an insect of species like yours, it means nothing.â€

Oliver rushed forward at Carver. A wall of large crystals came between them and blocked his path, forcing him to crash and fall back. The crystals metamorphosed into a group of anthropoid crystalline golems that attacked the crew. Quickly they slashed and struck, sending sparks across their suits as they rolled away. One golem rushed up to Oliver and attempted to swing down with its razor-sharp limb. Oliver barely managed to block with his own arm, allowing a large gash to tear into the armor, before sweep-kicking the grunt. Christian rushed Carver while he fought his way through the golems, but Carver, through some form of telekinesis, threw him off his feet to the ground. He then had the golems break into pieces of sharp crystals and sent them at the trio like a blizzard. More sparks and smoke, and when it cleared they were seen all on the ground, lights flashing and claxons blaring in their ears as their suits reported to them their extensive damage.
“I’ve just thought of something†said the alien imposter. “What if instead of killing you I take you back to our empire. Our scientists would be most curious to examine this technology and those who bear it. If only to satisfy an amused curiosity…â€

A loud roar suddenly filled the air. Falcon was back and was coming in behind Carver’s vessel. Toby in this Thallos suit jettisoned down.
“Sorry . . . but I don't think so.â€
Carver tried using his telekinesis to throw Toby away, but he had already set up the suit’s energy shield. Interestingly, it blocked the alien from performing his act.
“Don’t think I came unprepared… whatever you are.â€
“Welcome to the party...†muttered Christian.
“Interesting†admitted Carver. “But you are far from prepared to fight us.â€
He summoned his ship to come over them. It cast down an energy funnel that began sucking everything into itself and oblivion. The funnel grew as it came closer, tearing up and swallowing more of the landscape, and shooting lightning bolts in every direction. The crew ran and took cover behind a wall.
“Any ideas would be real helpful now†said Christian.
“How....how can we fight something like that?!†Toby asked. He put his hand on his helmet. “There's...no way...â€
Valentina looked at Oliver. The ship was approaching. Behind it Falcon with Debbie at the helm was throwing everything it had at it.
“You're not giving up now, are you?†asked Christian of Toby. “We need to get our fearless leader his planet-hopping badge and ticker-tape parade.â€
“Please, don’t joke now†Valentina chided quietly. Unseen by the others she had squeezed her eyes shut as she felt the menacing funnel come closer and devour more and more.
“We've made it this far. We’ve one-upped these guys each time and we’ll do the same with this guy.â€
“For how long? There's always someone stronger than you or better. How long are we going to keep doing this?â€

Valentina looked at the ground. "Who are we kidding? We’re not soldiers. These are not combat suits. We’re just astronauts who decided to play hero. We tried to save people but in the end we keep losing.â€
“Maybe we’re not heroes†said Oliver after a bit. “But it doesn’t matter anymore. Christian is right, we’ve come this far and we have to keep going to at least save as many as we can. People are looking to us whether they should or not. For them we are the heroes.†He peeked over the wall and saw the funnel almost upon them. “And I’ll keep fighting until the end.†He looked to Christian now. “And maybe I’ll get that parade anyway†he added in jest.
“A funeral march, more likely†muttered Toby. “With us alongside. Lead us on, Commander.â€

Debbie’s yells echoed in their radios as she continued fighting the alien ship. She avoided the flailing tentacles as best she could but Falcon kept getting bashed and grabbed. Not being as adept in combat as what would be preferred at such a time, the arsenal was being quickly depleted through her untempered usage; soon Falcon would be utterly defenseless. Christian noted this.
Debbie won’t last must longer… I can “attempt†to give her a hand. The rest of you go after Carver. If you get close enough the funnel should stop unless it gets him too.â€
“Alright†agreed Oliver. “Let’s move!â€

[ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=alkhsNfUap0"]*Insert Song plays*[/ame]
(‘The Longest Day’ by Real Life)​

Motioning for the others to get going, Christian summoned Surveyor. The tank came screaming in at full speed and he jumped in. Twin swirls of blue energy formed around the newly-added top cannons momentarily. Then small rockets emerged from the cannons and struck the ship from underneath, just missing the funnel’s point of emission. It seemed to stop for a moment and hang in the air. Moving fast, Christian undocked the jet half from the tank half and flew to join Debbie.
“Keep firing at that thing! I have another idea.â€
“What good would that do? I've shot everything at it and nothing happened. Soon I’ll be a sitting duck!â€
“Just do it. Later I can teach you how to fight properly next time. Actually, just watch me now!â€
Debbie sneered at this cheek but did as he commanded. Christian began weaving around the alien ship’s tentacles and firing himself where it couldn’t reach. Being a smaller ship, it proved a relatively simple task. They just needed to carry it out long enough.

Meanwhile Oliver, Valentina and Toby were fleeing the funnel toward Carver Santana. They used their shields to block any potential telekinetic moves, but in their state only Toby’s was at full power. Using his jetpack he shot toward Carver and slammed him into the nearest road sign. He followed up with a dosing from his flame thrower around the alien. Oliver and Val followed suit.

Jet Surveyor dodged to the right as a tentacle came at it. Tank Surveyor took aim while the ship was distracted by Surveyor.
“Alright Deb...let’s hit this thing hard....and I mean hard!â€

Blue energy swirled around the twin cannons. Jet and Tank Surveyors unleashed a hellacious inundation of artillery. The blast was so powerful it sent the Tank backwards from the kickback. Falcon emptied the last of its own weaponry. The ship buckled and shook from the combined attack. At last it seemed to be defeated. It began a slow descent to the ground as explosions ripped through its body and its tentacles went limp…

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Carver huddled from the flame barrier. He looked to be beaten, which was just as well since the Aurum and Rouge Cytectors were nearly spent. They turned off the fire and began to approach the imposter. But just as they were about to seize him Carver rose and sent a wave of energy from his body. They were taken by surprise, and had no time to calibrate their shields. The three flew up into the air and landed on the ground several yards away. The impact of their fall left several cracks on the road and shut down their suits.

Carver looked at them for a moment and then to his crashing ship/
“I’ll have to repay you for that. But I don’t think you should try to face the like of us again. If you do, you might risk the well-being of someone you know. A Mr. Perry Shankar.â€
Oliver’s eyes widened. Perry was here??
“What did you do with Perry?!â€
But Carver’s silhouetted body disappeared behind the smoke wafting across the battlefield. The team lay on the ground in exhaustion…

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Christian and Debbie landed a distance away from where Carver’s ship crashed and hurried to their teammates.
“Nork...†said Oliver as he tried to work against his locked-down suit and lift himself to a sitting position. “But I fear this isn't over yet.â€
Christian removed his helmet. “At least we know who’s behind all of this. We can formulate a way to fight him… or them.â€
“We need to tell everyone that this Santana is a fake and find Shankar†said Toby.
“Is it too late for that though?†asked Valentina quietly. The conspiracy was proved true, but would they be able to defeat it?

TO BE CONTINUED
*Ending Theme plays*
(‘Faith of the Heart’ from Star Trek: Enterprise)

Next Time
*Next Episode Promo Theme plays*
(‘Spielban yokokuhen ongaku’ from Jiku Senshi Spielban)​

Perry Shankar learns the aliens’ name and their goals; The crew of the Yankee Clipper race to save him and an island laboratory from a Phytomorph takeover.

 

[Black Fang]

Chapter 13: Rescue Mission​

Oliver, Valentina and Toby were fleeing the funnel toward Carver Santana. They used their shields to block any potential telekinetic moves, but in their state only Toby’s was at full power. Using his jetpack he shot toward Carver and slammed him into the nearest road sign. He followed up with a dosing from his flame thrower around the alien. Oliver and Val followed suit.

Jet Surveyor dodged to the right as a tentacle came at it. Tank Surveyor took aim while the ship was distracted by Surveyor.
“Alright Deb...let’s hit this thing hard....and I mean hard!”

Blue energy swirled around the twin cannons. Jet and Tank Surveyors unleashed a hellacious inundation of artillery. The blast was so powerful it sent the Tank backwards from the kickback. Falcon emptied the last of its own weaponry. The ship buckled and shook from the combined attack. At last it seemed to be defeated. It began a slow descent to the ground as explosions ripped through its body and its tentacles went limp…

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Carver huddled from the flame barrier. He looked to be beaten, which was just as well since the Aurum and Rouge Cytectors were nearly spent. They turned off the fire and began to approach the imposter. But just as they were about to seize him Carver rose and sent a wave of energy from his body. They were taken by surprise, and had no time to calibrate their shields. The three flew up into the air and landed on the ground several yards away. The impact of their fall left several cracks on the road and shut down their suits.

Carver looked at them for a moment and then to his crashing ship/
“I’ll have to repay you for that. But I don’t think you should try to face the like of us again. If you do, you might risk the well-being of someone you know. A Mr. Perry Shankar.”
Oliver’s eyes widened. Perry was here??
“What did you do with Perry?!”
But Carver’s silhouetted body disappeared behind the smoke wafting across the battlefield. The team lay on the ground in exhaustion…

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Christian and Debbie landed a distance away from where Carver’s ship crashed and hurried to their teammates.
“Nice work...” said Oliver as he tried to work against his locked-down suit and lift himself to a sitting position. “But I fear this isn't over yet.”
Christian removed his helmet. “At least we know who’s behind all of this. We can formulate a way to fight him… or them.”
“We need to tell everyone that this Santana is a fake and find Shankar” said Toby.
“Is it too late for that though?” asked Valentina quietly. The conspiracy was proved true, but would they be able to defeat it?

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*Opening Theme plays*
(Tokusou Exceedraft OP Instrumental)

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Oliver got to his knees, weakened from the attacks. In front of him his teammates were getting mangled by the relentless horde of Phytomorphs. To his right, the alien fightercraft were bombing Surveyor, Falcon and Yankee Clipper to smithereens. Flames licked the city around him.

Was it all hopeless?

“Why are you an explorer?” asked Perry Shankar. He was holding his space helmet and standing in front of his young student who was holding his chainsaw and pickaxe as weapons. Tools of science had been so quickly warped into instruments of warfare.
“Huh?” Oliver was stunned by the question. At any other time or place he would have postured and gave some kind of noble-sounding speech. But now, here, he found himself tongue-tied.
“Why did you take up the hero’s mantle?”
“I dunno...I thought it would be cool” he blurted out. Hardly as awe-inspiring, but maybe the brute honest sentiment that he actually had.
“Wrong answer” Perry dodged to the side as a blast from a passing fighter touched ground near them, sending Oliver tumbling away.
“Being a hero isn't about the fame or the glory...it's about the responsibility. It’s about the people whose lives you hold in your hands” said Perry. “And until you realize that, you're just pretending. All of you must make sacrifices. This is a full time job and if you’re not careful it might be your last job.”

A flytrap Phytomorph attacked. Oliver rolled to the side and attempted to cut at its heads and limbs. But the hideous creation simply knocked him aside and ground its foot into his chest. At first Oliver tried to fight it off, but as it persisted he began to give in.
“Giving up? Maybe you don't have what it takes” said Perry, watching the scene. “You can't just decide that you lose a round, Oliver. Sometimes it looks hopeless, and sometimes it is. But you have to fight anyway. It’s the only thing you can do.”
Oliver said nothing. He watched his teacher with a mix of sadness and hate.
“Maybe someday you'll understand” Perry reproached.

Oliver looked down at his saw. Fight anyway.... Orion sprayed the Phytomorph with his flamethrower and got him off…
Fight anyway… He looked at the horde.
Fight anyway… He gripped his pickaxe as it charged up.
Fight anyway… He began to run toward his comrades.
“FIGHT, OLIVER! FIGHT!” Perry yelled after him.

“HYIAAAAAH!” Orion raced at the Phytomorphs as fast as his legs would carry him. His Cytector was overloaded with power. He gathered his comrades together and lead the charge...

And then he awoke with a start. His brow and hands were sweat-drenched. All sleepiness gone he dragged himself from bed and paced around. He wondered if Toby was still getting the riot act from Lincoln Cartwright for his stunt with the imposter alien’s ship; he hadn’t needed to do it himself after all. But now after his dream he felt his performance thus far as the Yankee Clipper’s commander was inadequate. He needed to do more. They all needed to do more now that they knew what the true threat was.

Oliver cast a glance out the window at the stars. He had never dreamed that he would be caught up in such a mess as this. He should be up there exploring the cosmos, not down here staving off its refuse. But, as he reminded himself, he was the one to first out his foot down and take up the mantle of superhero and he had to see it through to the end, whatever it may be. After that….only after that could he do what he loved…

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Far from Earth and hidden from detection drifted the massive starship of the Phytomorphs’ creators. This was the very ship that had ambushed the Odyssey months before. Inside one of the aliens pulled open a holographic map of the planet for a moment.
“A message from Osiris” croaked an underling in their tongue. The map zoomed into a specific area where a blip was blinking. He opened the hailing frequency.
“You revealed yourself” he scolded.
“It hardly matters now” Osiris responded. “The weapon is a success. We can go back to the front and unleash them on our enemies.”
“We could. But you lost your ship as well.”
“Then send someone over” snapped Osiris.
“Take care of your little mess first. We don’t want the humans to try anything against us.”
“They can do nothing. I don’t know why you’re even concerned about these primitives.”
“That woman scientist is researching our creation. She must be disposed of before they discover too much. Do this and get rid of those shiny suits for good, and then you can come back.”
Osiris growled. The commander seemed to smile cruelly, as though he took pleasure at his misfortune.
“I will have your head for this insolence.”
“Remember your place. You may be in charge of the observation, but I am in command of his mission. You answer to me. Now do your job.”
He cut off the communication. In spite of his orders he did agree with Osiris on one point: the pitiful humans were powerless to do anything to them even if they discovered the whole truth. But their race had not gotten where it did through sloppiness. Just a little while longer and they would be leaving this fruitless frontier of the galaxy…

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Toby and the Clipper crew assembled in Lincoln's office. He motioned for them all to make themselves comfortable, gently closed the door behind him and turned to face the group.
“The proper authorities have been alerted about Carver Santana, but I have my doubts as to what they or we can do with him. He’s an enemy far beyond our capacity to deal with. The President has been personally informed of our situation and has ordered the safeguarding of all facilities studying the Phytomorphs.

And that includes our favorite interferer Dr. Mendoza. Her team is doing the most work with them. I'd suggest we take both our ships and Surveyor and give them our protection.”
“Almost sounds like we’re preparing for a war” said Toby.
“It doesn’t sound like they’re interested in that, from what you say Carver or whatever his real name is said. But we can’t take any chances. Every nation is currently doing what they can for a potential crisis.”
“What about Shankar?” asked Debbie. “We have to find him before something bad happens.”
“Quite so. Which reminds me, there’s a present for you people from the development team. Come with me.”

He lead them out the office, down a hall, in a large elevator taking them underground, and toward a brightly-lit room. It was a fairly small with two tables taking up almost all the space. “We've started on a new set of weapons after Mendoza made her ill-timed announcement. I realize things between us aren't quite right, but I’m going to put that aside even if she won’t. If there is some kind of attack, we need to be as ready as possible.”
On the tables were large heavy handheld cannons that could carry several types of ammunition at once. They were a variation of the weapons the team of soldiers had used against the pitcher plant Phytomorphs.
“They’re the first of our Artemis series” Lincoln explained. Christian lifted one with some effort and stared at it lovingly.
“If there is no alien invasion these could do marvels in our own wars.”
“It’s talk like that that gives you and Cartwright a reputation” Valentina whispered reproachfully to him. Christian thought of responding but tightened his lips and put the cannon back down. “Don’t put it down just yet” said Lincoln. “You may need them soon enough.” He motioned to a large painting of the Earth hanging on the wall.
“This planet is all we have, and we need to protect it. This is our responsibility to do all we can, and to accomplish the most...we must fight to the last no matter what it takes.”

On that note, Toby stuck his hand out to shake Oliver’s. “Team?” Oliver looked puzzled. “I’m not officially a part of this crew” the young candidate explained “But I’m willing to go the distance with you guys.”
“No one expected you to sit back” said Christian. “Especially when you have a Cytector along with us.”
“Maybe so, but I wanted to put it out there anyway. I’m with you.”
Oliver's face turned into a sly grin. “You sure you can handle us?”
“I'll try. You can punch me in the face if I'm acting like an idiot.”
“In that case Val and I owe you two” Oliver quipped back. “But let’s save that for after the aliens are gone.”
The team of five all nodded to each other as though to confirm their resolve to each other, and gathered up their new weapons. Lincoln then lead them back to the surface…

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Perry Shankar woke up and attempted to orient himself. The last thing he remembered was being knocked out by Astro. Holding his throbbing head he felt around his location. He was surrounded by an energy sphere inside the basement of Carver Santana’s house. Footsteps echoed overhead. The alien posing as Carver appeared at the top of the stairs back in human form.
“Good morning Mr. Shankar. Did you sleep well?”
“As well as a hostage can” Perry replied. He no longer feared these people, only tired of being toyed with. Just kill him already. Or was all this part of the fun?
”Our plan is nearly complete. Be merry; soon you will be free.”
“Free? You’d risk me telling the truth to everyone as soon as you release me?”
“It wouldn’t make a difference, as you shall see.”

Carver descended the stairs and fiddled with a control panel. The energy sphere disappeared. Perry hesitated for a moment, wary of his new freedom, but then rose to his feet and slowly approached Carver.
“That’s better, isn’t it?”
“Tell me what you want. What are these monsters you created, and why did you bring them here?”
Carver smiled without saying anything.
“What makes me so important to you? Why don't you just kill me now and get this over with? I'm actually getting bored.”
“My colleagues were curious about you and that robot over there” he finally answered. “The last time we passed by this part of the galaxy you were still dying from the Black Plague (Which may or may not have been a mere act of nature, if you get my meaning). That you came this far is fascinating, but that you think you’ve become something significant increases their curiosity. If I had my way you would have been sent away with the rest of your crew.”
“Where is my crew??” Perry demanded. “What do you mean, sent away?”

Carver bade the astronaut to follow him upstairs to the living room. All the shades were drawn over the windows to block the light and prying eyes. The robot Astro stood threateningly in a corner. Carver took a luminescent sphere and placed it inside a machine. A screen appeared above the machine and began playing video of the Odyssey’s attack and the finding of Astro by the aliens.
“The name of our race you couldn’t comprehend, but you may call my party the Vanguard, and me Osiris. We scower the galaxy searching for resources for our empire, or subjects to experiment on for our immense arsenal.”
Perry hid his surprise as best he could. “You mean… you collect living species for their genetic material?”
“Bluntly put, yes. But the truth is, Mr. Shankar, that you and I aren’t all that different once you
remove humans’ savage notions of morality. I will show you.”

The screen zoomed in on a large moonless planet resembling Saturn’s moon Titan many light years away from Earth, deep within the Milky Way. The picture zoomed through the planet’s stormy cloud cover, through the ground and revealed a great white substance shining inside the core.
“This substance is highly powerful, and is found in the core of many planets within this galaxy. Our ancestors called it the Essence, deposited from the gods themselves. It’s these Essences that our empire desires.
“Why?” asked Perry.
The screen now showed many large floating machines diving into a neighboring gas giant planet and “harvesting” the power of its Essence. More of these machines were doing the same to other gaseous planets outside the native solar system, and land versions were drilling into the cores of rocky planets.

“Our race advanced far beyond the rest. While you humans were in caves we were on the cusp of scientific progress. We discovered the truth of the Essences and set forth to harness its power, but our planet started to decay the more we took. Eventually it reached a point where it could hardly support life.”
“I see” said Perry, beginning to comprehend. “So you started invading other planets to rape them too?”
“The Essence is the greatest energy source we have yet discovered. And we are the superior race. Why should we not take claim over what can sustain us? Do not preach to me, lowest of the low in this galaxy. In spite of what I’m revealing, you cannot begin to comprehend.”
The screen showed weapons, machinery and infrastructure being mass produced by captured citizens from other planets.
“Slave labor” observed Perry.
“Would you rather we kill them? Of course some are conscripted into our armed forces if need arises. And there is need now, as we are currently locked in war with another race far away.” The screen showed a fleet of thousands of ships shooting at each other. “But we prefer not to arm those we have defeated, so the Vanguard is used to collect and study lifeforms on other worlds, and use their genes in the creation of bio-weapons. We decided to use plant life from Earth for our creation. I have been assigned to monitor the Phytomorphs’ performance. They have been a success; soon we shall be using them on our enemies.”
“Is that this has all been about then?” demanded Perry. “You’ve just been using Earth as a testing ground? You’ve hurt and killed people for an experiment??”
Osiris laughed. “Are you insulted, Mr. Shankar? Ha! Imagine, insulted that you’re not the target of conquest. Earth to us is like a deserted island that you would use to test nuclear weapons. Humankind is not even at the level of those whom we have subjugated. Why would we waste our time invading you?”
“Does Earth not have an Essence?”
“It does. But you are too far out into the frontier for us to spend resources on beyond collecting and testing.”
“Was my crew sent to become slaves too?”
“Some were to my knowledge. Others are to be used as… lab rats, you may say, for our scientists.”
Perry tightened his fist and glared at the screen. The more he heard the unabashed, wicked confession from this imposter, the more angry he became.

“That’s the end of the story, Mr. Shankar. I hope you are satisfied.”
“Satisfied?” Perry turned to him. “You’ve taken innocent people and killed more, and you think a simple explanation will soothe me? Return my crew and leave Earth forever if you want my satisfaction. Otherwise we will remove you by force.”
Osiris laughed deeply and loudly. “I'd hardly call the bunch of clowns who have tried to stop us an opposition. But we will be leaving, just as soon as all remaining evidence of the Phytomorphs are destroyed.”
“Why bother? We’re so primitive, as you say. We couldn’t come close to harnessing them.”
“True. But like all good scientists, we do not leave our lab benches dirtied after use, so to speak. Everything and everyone holding Phytomorph material will be destroyed.”

Astro suddenly came up and grabbed Perry’s shoulder. He winced slightly at its vice-like grip.
“You’ll be coming with me, Mr. Shankar. I’m going to return you to your friends soon.”

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The heroes were flying to an island where Dr. Mendoza had her team had set up shop away from inquisitive eyes and the press. Oliver, Toby and Debbie manned the Yankee Clipper, while Christian and Valentina flew the Falcon. The Clipper’s sensors beeped.
“Hang on guys...” said Oliver, looking at the screen on the panel. “There’s something else flying to the island.”
Christian nodded, his sensor acknowledging the level as well.
“I see it too… it could be these aliens. Let’s go.”

They landed in a clearing. Mendoza’s lab complex was situated at the heart of the island. The crew exited in their gear and ran to meet the nearest security guard.
“What are you people doing here?”
“You need to fortify this place. The aliens are coming to destroy the lab!
“Aliens? Is this some joke?”
“No joke” said Debbie. Pointing skyward. A cloud of fighters were coming down toward the island.
“No time to get ready either” said Christian. “Alright people, I’m gonna show you what to do. Debbie, you find Mendoza and her people. The rest of you try to hold them off. We have a fight on our hands.”
Everyone looked grim. The beginning of the end was upon them…

TO BE CONTINUED
*Ending Theme plays*
(‘Faith of the Heart’ from Star Trek: Enterprise)

Next Time
*Next Episode Promo Theme plays*
(‘Spielban yokokuhen ongaku’ from Jiku Senshi Spielban)​

The crew battles Osiris’s assault to save Ira Mendoza and Perry Shankar; Suddenly a Space Sherriff named Kenmer Ranew arrives to arrest the Vanguard.

 

[Black Fang]

Chapter 14: Space Sheriff in Town​

Toby stuck his hand out to shake Oliver’s. “Team?†Oliver looked puzzled. “I’m not officially a part of this crew†the young candidate explained “But I’m willing to go the distance with you guys.â€
“No one expected you to sit back†said Christian. “Especially when you have a Cytector along with us.â€
“Maybe so, but I wanted to put it out there anyway. I’m with you.â€
Oliver's face turned into a sly grin. “You sure you can handle us?â€
“I'll try. You can punch me in the face if I'm acting like an idiot.â€
“In that case Val and I owe you two†Oliver quipped back. “But let’s save that for after the aliens are gone.â€
The team of five all nodded to each other as though to confirm their resolve to each other, and gathered up their new weapons. Lincoln then lead them back to the surface…

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“Is that this has all been about then?†demanded Perry. “You’ve just been using Earth as a testing ground? You’ve hurt and killed people for an experiment??â€
Osiris laughed. “Are you insulted, Mr. Shankar? Ha! Imagine, insulted that you’re not the target of conquest. Earth to us is like a deserted island that you would use to test nuclear weapons. Humankind is not even at the level of those whom we have subjugated. Why would we waste our time invading you?â€
“Does Earth not have an Essence?â€
“It does. But you are too far out into the frontier for us to spend resources on beyond collecting and testing.â€
“Was my crew sent to become slaves too?â€
“Some were to my knowledge. Others are to be used as… lab rats, you may say, for our scientists.â€
Perry tightened his fist and glared at the screen. The more he heard the unabashed, wicked confession from this imposter, the more angry he became…

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The crew landed in a clearing. Mendoza’s lab complex was situated at the heart of the island. They exited in their gear and ran to meet the nearest security guard.
“What are you people doing here?â€
“You need to fortify this place. The aliens are coming to destroy the lab!
“Aliens? Is this some joke?â€
“No joke†said Debbie. Pointing skyward. A cloud of fighters were coming down toward the island.
“No time to get ready either†said Christian. “Alright people, I’m gonna show you what to do. Debbie, you find Mendoza and her people. The rest of you try to hold them off. We have a fight on our hands.â€
Everyone looked grim. The beginning of the end was upon them…

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*Opening Theme plays*
(Tokusou Exceedraft OP Instrumental)

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The Vanguard commander smirked as he watched the humans start to form a defense of Dr. Mendoza’s island from a projection in the ship.
“So....they think they can resist†he thought to himself. “If they really are intelligent they would have surrendered our property to us at once. That woman so-called scientist isn’t a quarter as smart as she thinks she is.â€

He barked a few commands to his subordinates on the bridge and the image switched to a devastated battlefield on a faraway planetoid. The empire had been facing heavy resistance from the natives. Soon with the Phytomorphs that would be rectified.
“Bring us closer to the planet†he ordered. The massive vessel began to glide toward the small blue world...

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A fiery light flew through the sky. A pilot of a commercial airliner spotted it in the distance and at first thought it was a bright star. Upon closer contact however, he saw it was some kind of small spaceship. An astronaut trainee? No, the shape of the craft wasn’t right. It looked almost… alien. As the craft approached the pilot and copilot tensed. They didn’t make any announcement to the passengers or radio ground control; no need to start a panic yet. The craft came right up to them and then veered above them just in time. Since it flew over the plane, no one else inside saw the strange object. The two looked at each other for a moment and went back to flying the plane, both desiring to forget what they had just witnessed.

The one flying the mysterious craft looked back on the plane for a moment too before continuing on his way. He knew the Vanguard was up to something in this part of space. Since he was here, perhaps he could do something about it…

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Debbie ran through the facility looking for Ira Mendoza. Finding the lab rooms empty, she looked for her ex-teacher’s office and while doing so burst into a conference room. By sheer luck, Mendoza was having a lab meeting with all her subordinates.
“Debbie?†she asked in surprise and slight irritation at the disturbance. “What’s going on? Why are you here?â€
“The aliens are coming to destroy this place. You all have to get out!â€
“Aliens? What are you talking about?†asked a lab tech with some derision.
“Carver Santana is an imposter. He’s one of the aliens who created the Phytomorphs using Earth plants’ genetic material. Now they’re going to get rid of their evidence. You have to evacuate!â€
“We can’t leave our samples of these creatures†said another. “We’ve worked too hard on them!â€
“We are this close to understanding what these things are†said Mendoza. “I left Shepard Station in order to work without NASA’s and Cartwright’s meddling, and their fixation on killing these creatures. I’m sorry Debbie, but I’m not about to abandon our work now, no matter what some ET says if they really are here. And I must say I’m skeptical…â€
“I saw him myself! He and they have been watching us this whole time! This is some sick experiment they’re conducting and now they’re about to finish! We can’t save what we’ve recovered. Now come with me unless you want to be killed!â€

Mendoza was silent for a moment, and then slowly walked toward Debbie. “You’re starting to sound like your more hot-headed peers, Debbie. You’ve wanted to study these Phytomorphs too. You were begging to be let back into the labs on the Station so that you could join us, you even said you would use that puny lab in your ship if need must.â€
“I still want to join you†Debbie admitted. “But that’s impossible now. We’re all over our heads in this.â€
So you want us to surrender to them?†asked one.
“I want you to stop thinking academically and look at the big picture! We can’t save this lab. Either we get out before they destroy it or we go down with it.â€
“Can’t we at least save one specimen?†a woman named Brenda implored. “That should be easy to smuggle out. They won’t miss one.â€
“What specimen?†asked Debbie, now curious.
“We’ve managed to grow one to near maturity†Brenda eagerly explained. “It’s my own project, actually. I’m hoping to be able to observe and control it as it grows.â€
“How large is it?â€
“Right now, easy to fit under a coat.â€
Debbie was tempted. She certainly wasn’t above going away with something for all the trouble they’ve been through. They deserved to know more. Why give in so easily to these beings?
“This can be good for everyone if we can succeed here†Mendoza persuaded. “And you personally. You can join us and leave NASA and Cartwright. They don’t deserve you. I would love to have you back.â€

Debbie paused for a moment. The lab members looked at her hopefully. At last, though still a bit reluctant, the pure scientist in her won and she gave a consenting nod.
“Only that one, nothing more†she insisted. “Then we leave.â€

*Insert Song plays*
(‘Circle of Fear’ by HIM)​

Vanguard fighters approached the island with weapons at the ready. While Christian prepared the island security force, the remaining three kept watch.
“What’s the plan?†asked Valentina.
“I don’t think the Clipper will be good here†said Oliver. “So I will take Falcon and fight in the air. You and Toby stay on the ground and take care of any Phytomorphs.â€
“That they use?†asked Toby. “Who needs them when they have that whole squadron?â€
“Or whatever might escape the building†Oliver responded.
“Why can’t I fly the ship?â€
“Because you nearly killed us the last time. Here Val can keep an eye on you.â€
Valentina had her visor and face mask lifted, and gave the kid a half-teasing “I’m watching you†look. Toby looked away sheepishly. He didn’t need another furious lecture on how to fly.
“Oh, and try not to let the Clipper be blown up.â€
“Yes sir!†Toby gave a mock salute.

The fighters began their attack. Some of them deposited small pods that crashed onto the ground and opened like shattered nuts, releasing a Phytomorph each of various kinds. Without hesitation Christian sent forth a column of fire from his flamethrower and leaps into action after it, attacking with his saw and pickaxe. He pressed a button on his suit to summon Surveyor from the Yankee Clipper’s bay. It rolled out to meet him amidst a flurry of exploding projectiles from the fighters, firing upon them in retaliation.
One monster wrapped a vine around the axe while another struck across Christian’s stomach. Sparks danced across his body as another one flogged him with thorny vines. Dropping the axe and spinning around, Christian dosed them all with flames to gain back some breathing space, and cut his way through while they were recovering. Elsewhere, while security fought the monsters on ground level, Toby and Valentina had brought out the heavy Artemis series cannons and were unleashing them from a higher ground on the coming pack. Homing bullets, caulking bullets, lasers, RNAi-laced piercing pellets (not as practical for the situation but decent for a long-term result) and grenades were fired at once or in alternation. In the sky, Oliver piloted Falcon through the mass of fighters, firing on and bringing down as many as he could. Either he was a better shot than he thought or these guys weren’t being as careful this time. Maybe they were in a rush…
Suddenly the Phytomorphs stopped and drew back, as though being corralled by something. The fighters in the air stopped moving and hovered in the air. Inside the alien vessel, the commander watched the scene and seemed both annoyed and amused at what happened next. Osiris had arrived on the island by a procured boat. With him were Astro and Perry Shankar.
“It’s Shankar!†Valentina radioed excitedly to the others.
A device on Osiris’s person was keeping the Phytomorphs at bay. Perry was not fettered; he didn’t need to be, as Astro was ready for any mischief. He swept his gaze over the team of astronauts but did not directly look on any of them.
“Ms. Burshteyn†he called to Valentina. “I have an offer to make. But first I must ask you to lower your arms. As you can see, I have called off our forces.â€
Valentina was hesitant, but then did as he asked and bade Toby do the same. Christian came to join them, while Oliver looked down from Falcon.
I will return Mr. Shankar over to you, if you agree to let us destroy the Phyotmorph material you have in that lab. We have no further interest in Earth. We’ll leave you people alone once our property has been disposed of accordingly.â€
“You used DNA from Earth to create these things†said the Russian.
“Nevertheless, the creation is ours. They are of no more concern to you. Surrender the material and you may have Shankar.â€
“Why should we trust you?†shot Toby.
“This building will be destroyed no matter what you choose. I’m simply offering you an easier way. You can’t resist our might for very long, I can promise you that.â€

Christian looked over the scene, assessing the situation. He was willing to bet that even if they surrendered the lab the aliens would kill them anyway.
“How’s it going in there, Debbie?†he radioed.
“Everyone’s together. We’re ready to leave if you can give us some cover.â€
“No need for that. Come out the main entrance. We have something of a ceasefire at the moment.â€
A few minutes later Debbie, Mendoza and her team exited the building and paused outside the entrance.
“Head to the Clipper†said Christian. Debbie lead them away, keeping a nervous eye on the Phytomorphs and hovering fighters.
“Now return Shankar†Christian commanded. As Osiris looked to Astro and gave a nod, he tried to make out the shape of this extraterrestrial, but the shroud of darkness around him was too great. A peculiar technology, he thought, if it was that. Perry warily began to walk toward the team. Christian suddenly drew his arm cannon, forced Perry down and shot Astro in the shoulder; he had spotted the robot stating to raise his arm as though preparing to shoot the man in the back.

“Azure!†yelled Valentina in surprise.
“What are you playing at?!†roared Christian. But the Phytomorphs were on the move again assailing the lab, barging in and destroying everything inside.
“Get out of here, quick!†ordered Perry. The team surrounded him and made a getaway to Surveyor and the Yankee Clipper where they would have some cover, but Osiris telekinetically threw them off their path to the ground. The fighters were back in action bombarding the lab from above. Oliver saw his team being waylaid, but was busy with the fighters to go down and join them. He looked down on the building. Saving it was a lost cause. He resorted to flying above the scientists and the two vehicles to protect them from the enemy fire.

“What do you want still?!†yelled Toby as Osiris and Astro strode to them. “The plants are yours!â€
“I told you. Everything will be wiped clean. You’ve meddled in our work enough to be included in that.â€
Astro fired his mini-rockets at them. “Keep going†yelled Christian. They were in a poor position to fight. Another blast however split them apart, Perry and Toby on one side, Christian and Valentina on the other. Astro continued to fire on all of them. Toby shielded Perry as they tried to move away toward a small ledge overlooking another part of the beach. Perry then caught sight of a larger rocket about to be fired from the robot’s body.
“Move!†He shoved Toby one way and leapt over the ledge as the rocket hit the ground. Toby cried out as he saw Perry disappear from sight.
“Professor!†yelled Valentina and Oliver in unison. Astro knocked Toby down with some well-placed hits, and then flew to them with his jet boosters.
“I’m starting to agree he was a bad creation†Christian muttered as he saw the robot’s arsenal locked onto them.

Suddenly a fiery light appeared overhead. It cut through the fighters and fired on Osiris and Astro, forcing them away from Christian and Valentina. Oliver watched in amazement as it flew back up and swooped low again, pursuing the two enemies on the ground like an eagle chasing down a rabbit. Osiris and Astro were soon thrown off their feet and crumpled in a heap together.
“What is that?†asked Toby. He got his answer as the glow rescinded, revealing a small ship a little larger than the NASA training modules. The grass blew violently underneath. A figure clad in shiny metal armor leapt out of the ship and landed before Osiris.
“You….†Osiris started. He then recognized the newcomer. “A Space Sheriff!â€
“By order of the Galactic Union Police, you are under arrest!â€

Or so what the translation would have been. Everyone stood stunned. Another alien being before their eyes, and some kind of… space cop? What was going on? Osiris snorted after recovering from his surprise.
“The GUP sends one Sheriff after the whole of the Vanguard?†he asked in the same tongue. “You’re not serious.â€
Suddenly the Sheriff didn’t seem like much of a savior after all. Even he (assuming this was a he) seemed at a loss for words by the sudden realization. Nevertheless he kept his ground and waited for a response.
“Well? Do you expect me to come quietly?â€
“No I don’t.†The Sheriff drew out a glowing sword. “But you’re going to come.â€
Osiris threw a handful of crystals that formed into the crystalline golems and began to escape. The team began to pursue, but the Sheriff stopped them. “No! Get the others to safety!†he said now in English. “His kind is beyond your power to stop.â€
Not knowing what else to do, they began getting everyone inside the Clipper as best they could. Christian and Toby crammed Mendoza and Debbie inside Surveyor. Valentina in the Clipper looked across the expanse of land before her; in order to take off the shuttle would have to make a running start across the ground like a plane, but that meant going through the line of fire.
“Aurum!†she called. “I’m going to need some cover!â€
“Got it.†Oliver drove the fighters further away with rounds of artillery. However the lab was by now already a smoldering pile of rubble and they making their exit anyway. Wishing she had a better path, Valentina guided the Clipper across the uneven surface and brought the ship to a low altitude flight over the ocean. Surveyor fired on the last stragglers before being hoisted by Falcon and brought inside its payload bay.
“Where’s Shankar??†Oliver demanded as they entered the cockpit. “Start looking!â€

Meanwhile the Sheriff had cut down the golems and was engaged in a duel with Astro. Sword and gun swung and fired. Under his helmet the Sheriff had to chuckle. Like the Vanguard he couldn’t help being amused at this creation of the humans and how easily it had been twisted into a bane. But unlike the Vanguard he bared no superior contempt for them, only compassion. He disengaged from the robot and charged up his blade. Glowing eyes shone from his visor. Astro readied himself for another attack. The Sheriff leapt from a rock and fired his gun in quick succession to keep Astro busy, and then when he was close enough stabbed the corrupted machine clean through his body. Sparks erupted. Astro’s systems went haywire. The Sheriff withdrew his blade and proceeded to slice off each of his limbs and finally his head. The torso he shot until it erupted again in an irreparable mess of circuits and wires, and the severed head he stabbed through the face. The light went out of its eyes. Astro, the would-be mechanical astronaut substitute was now in pieces for good.

The Sheriff looked up from his fallen opponent to the ruin of the lab and the departing alien fighters. Osiris had disappeared. No matter, thought the young and eager sheriff. This vile race would be driven out of this solar system and peace would be restored to this innocent planet…

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A sensor on the Falcon console started to beep. Olive glanced down and happy relief washed over him.
“I found Shankar! He’s on the beach under the cliff.†He looks over at Christian. “The ships can’t land there. We’ll need Surveyor again for this one.â€
Christian nodded and took Jet Surveyor down to recover the astronaut. Next to him he saw the mysterious Space Sheriff kneeling beside him.
“That Sheriff guy is there!â€
He landed the Jet and ran to meet him.
“Hey… thanks for the assist earlier. Who are you?â€
The Sheriff nodded and lifted the dazed Perry to a sitting position. “You need to get him checked out. He’s been through a rough patch from what I can see. The Vanguard is only a taste of the real power behind them.â€
“Those aliens are the Vanguard? What do you know about them? Who are you??†Christian asked again more forcefully.
“The name’s Kenmer Ranew. I’m a SpSheriff of the Galactic Union Police. I’ll explain more fully to you later, right now I must report to HQ my situation. We’ll meet again soon.â€
“Hold on -†started Christian as Kenmer leapt up to the top of the ledge and got back inside his ship. “How can we find you? Or you us?â€
“Meet me here tomorrow at this time!†Kenmer flew away. Christian looked on in confusion. What next in this unfolding affair?

TO BE CONTINUED
*Ending Theme plays*
(‘Faith of the Heart’ from Star Trek: Enterprise)

Next Time
*Next Episode Promo Theme plays*
(‘Spielban yokokuhen ongaku’ from Jiku Senshi Spielban)​

Perry Shankar divulges what happened when the Odyssey disappeared and NASA’s conspiracy; Kenmer Ranew teams up with the crew to fight the Vanguard; the last remaining Phytomorph attacks Mendoza and her team, prompting Debbie to at last use the Thallos Cytector.

 

[Black Fang]

Chapter 15: Dark Mission​

A fiery light appeared overhead. It cut through the fighters and fired on Osiris and Astro, forcing them away from Christian and Valentina. Oliver watched in amazement as it flew back up and swooped low again, pursuing the two enemies on the ground like an eagle chasing down a rabbit. Osiris and Astro were soon thrown off their feet and crumpled in a heap together.
“What is that?†asked Toby. He got his answer as the glow rescinded, revealing a small ship a little larger than the NASA training modules. The grass blew violently underneath. A figure clad in shiny metal armor leapt out of the ship and landed before Osiris.
“You….†Osiris started. He then recognized the newcomer. “A Space Sheriff!â€
“By order of the Galactic Union Police, you are under arrest!â€

The Sheriff cut down Osiris’s golems and was engaged in a duel with Astro. Sword and gun swung and fired. Under his helmet the Sheriff had to chuckle. Like the Vanguard he couldn’t help being amused at this creation of the humans and how easily it had been twisted into a bane. But unlike the Vanguard he bared no superior contempt for them, only compassion. He disengaged from the robot and charged up his blade. Glowing eyes shone from his visor. Astro readied himself for another attack. The Sheriff leapt from a rock and fired his gun in quick succession to keep Astro busy, and then when he was close enough stabbed the corrupted machine clean through his body. Sparks erupted. Astro’s systems went haywire. The Sheriff withdrew his blade and proceeded to slice off each of his limbs and finally his head. The torso he shot until it erupted again in an irreparable mess of circuits and wires, and the severed head he stabbed through the face. The light went out of its eyes. Astro, the would-be mechanical astronaut substitute was now in pieces for good…

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mendoza was silent for a moment, and then slowly walked toward Debbie. “You’re starting to sound like your more hot-headed peers, Debbie. You’ve wanted to study these Phytomorphs too. You were begging to be let back into the labs on the Station so that you could join us, you even said you would use that puny lab in your ship if need must.â€
“I still want to join you†Debbie admitted. “But that’s impossible now. We’re all over our heads in this.â€
So you want us to surrender to them?†asked one.
“I want you to stop thinking academically and look at the big picture! We can’t save this lab. Either we get out before they destroy it or we go down with it.â€
“Can’t we at least save one specimen?†a woman named Brenda implored. “That should be easy to smuggle out. They won’t miss one.â€
“What specimen?†asked Debbie, now curious.
“We’ve managed to grow one to near maturity†Brenda eagerly explained. “It’s my own project, actually. I’m hoping to be able to observe and control it as it grows.â€

Debbie paused for a moment. The lab members looked at her hopefully. At last, though still a bit reluctant, the pure scientist in her won and she gave a consenting nod.
“Only that one, nothing more†she insisted. “Then we leave.â€

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Christian took Jet Surveyor down to recover Perry Shankar. Next to him he saw the mysterious Space Sheriff kneeling beside him.
“That Sheriff guy is there!â€
He landed the Jet and ran to meet him.
“Hey… thanks for the assist earlier. Who are you?â€
The Sheriff nodded and lifted the dazed Perry to a sitting position. “You need to get him checked out. He’s been through a rough patch from what I can see. The Vanguard is only a taste of the real power behind them.â€
“Those aliens are the Vanguard? What do you know about them? Who are you??†Christian asked again more forcefully.
“The name’s Kenmer Ranew. I’m a Space Sheriff of the Galactic Union Police. I’ll explain more fully to you later, right now I must report to HQ my situation. We’ll meet again soon.â€
“Hold on -†started Christian as Kenmer leapt up to the top of the ledge and got back inside his ship. “How can we find you? Or you us?â€
“Meet me here tomorrow at this time!†Kenmer flew away. Christian looked on in confusion. What next in this unfolding affair?

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

*Opening Theme plays*
(Tokusou Exceedraft OP Instrumental)

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The team brought Perry Shankar and Dr. Mendoza’s people to Shepard Station to avoid too much media attention. Seraphina and Jaden were there when they arrived, to their surprise.
“What are you doing here?†asked Oliver.
“We heard what was going on and thought we should do something†said Seraphina. “Or try to do something.â€
“You found Shankar?†asked Jaden in amazement as he saw the astronaut being brought to the medical ward. “Is he alright?â€
“I hope so†Oliver smiled and invited them to come along. “Since you’re here ad know too much already, come on and we’ll finally hear his story.†They walked over to a waiting area while doctors looked Perry over. Meanwhile Debbie went with Mendoza and her techs to examine the Phytomorph they had smuggled off the island. “I hope they don’t mind us borrowing a room†Mendoza said. Debbie was certain they had not been seen, but she missed Toby’s curious glance at them.

The next morning they were allowed to see him. Oliver wanted to wait for Debbie to return, but the doctor told them they could only be with him for a short while before leaving him to rest. Christian peered through the window of the door before they entered.
“Geez....he's seen better days.â€
The door slid open and Perry gladly bade them to come in. Oliver looked at his old teacher. What has this guy gotten himself into?
“I’m alright, I’m alright†Perry reassured them after continually being asked. He looked outside a window and paused for a moment, as though the sight brought back unpleasant memories. Oliver took a seat right in front of him and decided to get right to the point.
“Now then… what happened to you out there?â€

Perry sat up straighter and drew a breath, preparing to recant his sorry tale. “I suppose you deserve to know everything after all you’ve seen. I won’t withhold anything.†Christian and Lincoln leaned forward and looked intently at the astronaut. Toby, still hoping for Debbie to show, drew away from the others while still keeping an ear open. Perry sighed and began.

“Let us go back to the sudden reboot of NASA’s space program. For so many years they were in the background doing little of significance, when they decided to give itself new life, to bring back those Golden Days when the US and the Soviets were racing for the Moon. We now finally had the technology for manned visits to other planets, and so Project Odyssey was born. The first mission was to Mars, and the ship was of course the Odyssey which I commanded.â€
The others nodded impatiently. This was all known to them already. Perry slowly got up and walked to the window.
“Did you know about the conspiracy?†asked Jaden. Perry was silent for a moment. His pain was etched on his face and he turned away to regain his composure.
“There were people in NASA from the beginning that knew or thought they knew of alien civilizations. Supposed evidence found on the Moon and Mars decades ago was hidden away and labeled fallacious, in order to keep the public’s eye away from it. They had planned to one day retrieve some of the artifacts left over from those worlds and bring them to Earth for their use alone. Unmanned vehicles wouldn’t be able to do this, so when manned travel to other planets was possible they seized their chance.
“So Osiris was being truthful†said Lincoln quietly. “How much did he know?â€
“He told me nothing about that, only what his race’s plans were for the Phytomorphs.â€
“So what happened to the Odyssey?†pressed Oliver, repeating the question everyone wanted answered. “Did you know about all this when you started the mission?â€
“I was told about it by my superiors in a private meeting soon before we departed. Even then I had an uneasy feeling but the scientist in me won out and I stayed with the program. My crew of course knew nothing, as the higher ups wanted it.â€

“So when you were attacked, maybe they assumed it was the aliens they thought were out there†said Christian. “That could be why they never said anything about it and kept stalling the program.â€
“But where do the Phytomorphs come in?†asked Valentina.
“I’ll get to that†said Perry as he continued. “We were attacked upon reaching Mars. I found that I had been taken aboard their ship, while the others were brought elsewhere. I never saw them again after that. God knows what’s become of them….†He paused again, trying to find the heart to go on. “At first they seemed to question me, but gave up when they saw I couldn’t understand them.â€
“You were their prisoner?†asked Oliver.
“I must have been, but after a while they allowed me to wander around the ship on my own. I suppose they figured I was too stupid by their standards to get into any mischief, though I proved otherwise with my escape†he smirked ever so slightly as he added this part, the one high point in the story. “I tried finding out what had happened to the others, but found nothing. As for the Phytomorphs, I didn’t see much of them but I did see once a video of them sending a meteor toward Earth and a simulation of us finding it and bringing it back home. A Trojan Horse strategy, so to speak. I could be wrong, but it’s my guess that finding us gave them the idea in the first place.â€
“Why did they reprogram Astro, I wonder?†asked Lincoln. Perry shrugged. “They found him curious and decided to have some more fun at our expense.â€

Christian sat there trying to absorb it all. Oliver felt even more disheartened. All his dreams for another golden Space Age had been dashed time and again, and this was the final blow.
“We were being used all along, by NASA and these aliens.â€
“Does NASA still think these guys are the ones they think they are, though?†asked Lincoln. “Osiris was posing as Carver Santana this whole time. He might have done something to derail them, or encourage the idea that they were the descendants of these… supposed Martians and Moon-people and whatever else is out there.â€
Shaking his head to clear his thoughts, Perry returned to the window. Toby had been quiet the whole time; he now saw Debbie outside and out of breath. He quickly slid the door open.
“What is it? You missed a hell of a story.â€
“We have a problem - †The others jumped up nervously.
“What is it?†asked Valentina. Debbie looked hesitant to divulge, but then suddenly warning sirens began to go off around the Station.
“Debbie!†said Oliver.
“There’s a Phytomorph loose in the labs!â€
“What??†Christian shot up from his chair. Everyone stared at Debbie. “How is that possible? They were all destroyed on the island!â€
“We can find that out later! Now we have to do something!†Debbie insisted, desiring to keep the truth hidden if she could help it,
“Let’s go!†commanded Oliver, and began to lead everyone out.
“Wait†said Toby. “Kenmer Ranew asked us to meet him on the island this evening.â€
“You trust that guy?†asked Lincoln.
“He helped us fight Osiris and destroyed Astro. He certainly can’t hurt us… I hope.â€
“If he is who he says he is…†Lincoln drifted off. “Alright. We’ll split up. Two of you stay here, the other two will come with me to meet him.â€
“I’ll stay here!†Debbie immediately volunteered. “We’ll go too†said Christian, indicating himself and Oliver.
“And us†Seraphina said suddenly of herself and Jaden. Jaden looked at her in surprise. Lincoln paused for a moment and then nodded.
“Fine. Do what you can and keep in contact.â€
“You two try to evacuate everyone first†said Debbie to Oliver and Christian. “I’ll take Jaden and Seraphina to the armory and get some weapons.â€
“Hold on, how - †but Debbie had already taken the others toward the science division. Christian groaned and then went with Oliver to help get the staff and visitors to safety.

As they reached the small armory Toby suddenly appeared.
“Toby! Aren’t you going with Cartwright?â€
“I am. I want to give you this first†he handed Debbie the Thallos TectorGrip. Debbie stared at it speechless.
“You’re giving this to me now? Why?â€
Toby shrugged. “I think you’re gonna need it.â€
“Have any spares by any chance?†Jaden muttered.
“I…. thank you†said Debbie. Toby nodded and gave the slightest hint of a wink. For a moment Debbie wondered if he guessed as to why Debbie was so flustered over this. But he said nothing, and was off again in an instant. Debbie quickly got some standard issue guns for the two and, after searching franticly, found a station to suit up in near the shuttle hangars. Any other time she would have thrilled to at last be wearing this piece of technology she so deserved, but now she only had one thing in mind: save Mendoza and her lab mates.
“Come on!â€

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Debbie, Jaden and Seraphina ran to the start of the semi-circular hallway and looked down for any sign of the Phytomorph. “Stay close†Debbie advised the other two as she slowly began to lead them down the all-too-quiet corridor. All of a sudden a rustling sound pierced their ears. Sharp leaves whirled like discuses from around the bend and blew over them. Debbie activated her personal shield and extended it around the others. Slowly they passed through the torrent of leaves until they rounded the bend and met -their source: a strange-looking Phytomorph even among Phytomorphs, possibly a mix of genetic material from several plants and the Vanguard’s stock DNA.

The three fired their guns at the creature, but its thick hide deflected the shots. It leapt forward, slashing heavily with sharp blade-like leaves protruding from the arms against the shield. Debbie deactivated the shield and jumped back. Jaden and Seraphina rolled to either side of her.
“We’ll find Mendoza! You keep this thing at bay†said Jaden. Debbie wanted to protest, but he called Seraphina to him and began running to the other end of the hall. Debbie drew her arm cannon and started blasting away to keep its attention.
“Did you see its back?†Jaden asked as they ran. “It looked like stuff broke off.â€
“What about it?†asked Seraphina, confused at the sudden observation.
“… I don’t know. Maybe it’s nothing.â€
“Now you have me worried†she muttered.
“You weren’t before?â€
“It’s different when you’re actually on the field, so to speak. I think I trust Debbie and those guys more than myself…â€
“Well just be ready for what we might find. It’ll just be us two for a bit. I could use a Cytector right about now though.â€

They reached the laboratory and received a shock: the bodies of some of Mendoza’s techs were strewn on the floor strangled or severely lacerated. Two more were hanging overhead and slowly being constricted by a set of vines.
“Stop! Don’t come closer or it’ll get you too!†one of them gasped.
“Did these vines break off from the creature?†asked Jaden, observing fracture points at the end of the vines. The victims couldn’t answer. The two started shooting at the vines’ attachment point on the ceiling and brought them down, then tried to tear them off the techs’ bodies.
“Get out! Find Mendoza!â€
“What? Where is she??â€
But the vines that had strangled the others now moved to Seraphina and began to do the same. Jaden’s gun was knocked away and he was forced to dodge another vine himself while now trying to pry off the others solo.

Meanwhile Debbie engaged the Phytomorph in a furious grappling match. Thorny appendages sprang from the torso and constricted her, piercing the Cyctector plating. Debbie fired her jetpack and forcefully broke away from the monster, crashing into the ceiling and wall some distance away. Suddenly Oliver and Christian came flying around the corner. They slashed and shot off their at the monster to make it retreat for a bit.
“What are you doing here??â€
“Saving you it seems. What are you doing with a Cyctector?â€
“Later†said Oliver. “Thallos, find Mendoza. The two of us will take this on.â€
“Are we all taking turns with the thing now?†Debbie muttered to herself, but she followed the command. She flew with her jetpack down the halls to gain speed. Slicing the Phytomorph across the throat, Christian leapt aside and let Oliver cut repeatedly at the chest. The creature issued a sickening cry and continued to flay and beat its new challengers.

Glancing backwards over his shoulder, Jaden saw another amputated vine was about to grab hold of him. Suddenly Seraphina, who had maintained a hold on her gun, thrust her right arm forward and fired several times until it fell dead to the floor, looking like the detached tail of a lizard that finally stopped twitching. She then shoved the gun into Jaden’s hands.
“Shoot these off!â€
Jaden was hesitant; he didn’t trust his aim to hit a small target and avoid injuring the three.
“Hurry up!†Seraphina demanded as she rolled around in a wrestling match with her vines.
“Wait a minute†Jaden then remembered the lacerated techs and looked around for any sharp leaf that had been shed as well.
“We don’t have a minute!†choked one of the techs. The other had already gone limp and surrendered to her mindless captor. Jaden luckily found a large serrated leaf and, careful not to cut himself, brought it back and began slicing the vines off as fast as he could. In a few moments the three were freed. The unconscious woman was brought to a sitting position by her peer. Seraphina gave Jaden back his gun.
“You’re lucky you found that†she said.
“You’re lucky I didn’t shoot you instead. Especially with you thrashing around.†She turned to the techs. “Where did Mendoza go?â€
“She got out when the thing attacked with some others. But I didn’t see where.â€
Seraphina nodded. “Go get some help. We’ll try to find her.â€
“Hurry!†he called after them as they went on, a bit more confident than before after this bout…

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Back on the island, the Space Sheriff Kenmer Ranew waited for the people whom he had met the day prior to arrive. Presently he saw the Falcon slowly approach and land. Valentina, Toby, Perry and Lincoln emerged and went to meet the alien
“Ah, good. You're here.†He looked around for more but found none. “Where are the others? There were more with you yesterday.â€
“We’ve had a bit of a problem†said Lincoln. “They’re taking care of it. But let’s get right to it. Who are you, how do you speak Earth language, and what do you want?â€
“Very curt, you are†observed Kenmer with a bit of a smile.
“Sorry. We haven’t met many friendly ETs†said Valentina, trying her best to be polite. She studied the alien’s appearance: she couldn’t put her finger on it exactly, but he seemed not completely unhumanlike nor could he pass for a human on the street. Perhaps he was trying to accommodate their sensibilities by mimicking a human?
“Understandable. I’ll answer your questions. My name is Kenmer Ranew. I’m a Space Sheriff in the Galactic Union Police. We monitor and protect all worlds in this galaxy, even those not aware of us like yours. To be honest, much of our activity is in more advanced planets. But when word was gotten that the Vanguard was up to something here again, I was sent to investigate. Though I suppose I’ve done a bit more than that.â€
“How do you mean?†asked Perry.
“Well I was supposed to observe and report only. But I saw what they were doing to your people and couldn’t just watch anymore. I had to give a hand yesterday. But Osiris did have a point, I must admit: I can’t bring his crew in by myself. And now they’re aware the GUP is on to them.â€
“Is that why you invited us here?†asked Valentina. “You want us to help you?â€
“That seems rather backwards to me†said Toby.
“Oh no†said Kenmer. “Don’t take what those fiends say to heart. Indeed you may help me, but I am here to offer you my help. So perhaps I’m asking us to work together, as we both could use a partner.â€

The four looked at each other. In any other situation Kenmer might be facing an inquiry and detainment by whichever government got to him first. But there weren’t many options available.
“What do you think?†Lincoln asked Valentina. “You’re the ones on the front line.â€
Valentina pasued for a moment, and then nodded with a smile. “Ok. Let’s do it.â€
“Excellent†said Kenmer. He extended his hand to shake, a bit awkwardly. Valentina accepted.
“I’m Valentina. Burshteyn. And these are Toby Reynolds, Perry Shankar and Lincoln Cartwright.â€
“We’d be obliged if your people could help us find one of our ships when this is done†said Perry, stepping forward. “We were attacked and I taken prisoner. I don’t know what happened to the rest of my crew.â€
“We have heard of this†said Kenmer gravely. “I’m not optimistic, but I shall see what we can do.â€
“Thank you.†He and Lincoln shook the Sheriff’s hand as well. “Would you like to come with us? We can collaborate together.â€
“A good idea.†They got back into their ships and flew away together…

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Oliver and Christian weren’t making much progress. Deciding to take the risk, Oliver switched to Attack Mode and spread his arms wide. Electricity cackles between his two fists and then his whole body. Christian, who had managed to pierce the Phytomorph’s hide, caught sight of his partner and froze for a moment in surprise. Oliver drew his pickaxe and let the electricity surge through it.
“Do you know what you’re doing?†Christian questioned, recalling his experience with the mode.
“Just hold it steady!†Thrusting his tool outward, Oliver ran forward and rammed it into the Phytomorph, sending the gathered energy over its body. The surge of power short-circuited his Cytector and blew him backwards, leaving him on the floor breathless. The Phytomorph shrieked, stumbled around the bend and crumpled on the floor. Christian watched its twitching body warily and then helped Oliver up. Locked in his suit he leaned against the wall, unable to move.
“That probably wasn’t a good idea†said Christian. “We don’t know what Mendoza’s gotten into and all hands might be needed.â€
“Well at least it’s out of commission for a while. You had a better idea?†Christian fumbled with the manual release and released Oliver from his metal prison, gently bringing him to a sitting position on the floor.
“Not really†he responded. “Stay here. I’ll go help Debbie, if I can find her.â€

He began running through the science section. Soon he found Jaden and Seraphina and went with them, questions being postponed for later. He then heard Debbie’s scream come through his intercom. The eyes on his mask lit red and he scanned for its source.
“This way!â€
They found a storage room for specimens and found Debbie hacking and shooting away at a mass of writhing vines and limbs. In the center was Dr. Mendoza, bound and helpless.
“Thallos!â€
Debbie tried her flame thrower on the mass to little effect. The vines on the outer edges withdrew but the ones closer to the doctor retained their hold.

“Hang on Doctor!†Debbie screamed, scrambling for some idea.
“How did that get on the Station anyway?†asked Christian. “All the samples were taken to Earth.â€
“Is this really the right time to ask that?†Debbie moved to attack again, but one of the outer vines knocked her aside. Jaden grabbed her and pulled her off to the side near Seraphina.
“Get it off!†Mendoza wailed. She appeared quite the contrast to her self-certain haughty self that she normally passed for. Christian and Jaden began climbing toward the inner vines and began cutting and shooting to get to Mendoza, while Debbie bathed the outer vines with fire. Seraphina found a large flask of a corrosive and threw it on the mass, causing it to burn away and retreat. Christian shot off the remaining vines aroud Mendoza and with Jaden lifted her to safety.

The mass was still alive however; the surviving vines began to slither toward the group.
“Why don’t they just die?†Seraphina exclaimed.
“Seal them in before they get out!†ordered Christian.
“Wait!†said Mendoza. She dove to the floor, dangerously close to the approaching vines, and began tearing a leaf from a dead vine.
“What the hell are you doing?!†yelled Christian.
“ I only need one piece to continue the work!â€
“Are you insane? These things have done enough damage! Let us kill them in peace for once.â€
“Don’t you want to understand them?!â€
“I understand them enough, and I want them dead. Now get out before I seal you in with them.â€
“NO!†yelled Debbie. She glared at Christian. “What’s wrong with you?â€
“What’s wrong with me? What’s wrong with your doctor friend? All that smarts and she can’t see reason!â€
“Just hold on a moment!†Mendoza tore off a mid-sized leaf from the vine and turned back to the group, but a vine grabbed her ankle. Debbie fired her cannon at the mass. The doctor scrambled to the door but it was fast catching up.
“They’ll get out!†cried Jaden. Christian could wait no longer. He pressed a few buttons on the wall console and began closing the door.
“Doctor!†screamed Debbie. Mendoza dove for the door. In a panic she put herself between the descending door and the floor, trying to keep it open for the doctor to crawl under.
“Get back! The door will crush you!†Debbie refused and cried out as she felt her shoulder get ground down. Mendoza was almost there. But a vine began to enter the hallway. Out of options, Chrstian pulled Debbie out from beneath the door and let it close all the way, leaving Mendoza on the other side.
“Mendoza!!†Debbie tried to open the door again but the seal was set. Mendoza banged on it and looked back on the monstrosity she had so foolishly saved from destruction. A sickening puncture was heard as a barbed vine stabbed the doctor beneath her ribcage. The other vines crashed against the door and retreated upon failing to get through. Mendoza slumped to the floor where she slowly bled out.

Debbie and Seraphina turned away. Jaden closed his eyes and hung his head. Christian let his tools fall to the floor and stepped back. Debbie removed her helmet and turned to her teammate. For a moment she cast a furious gaze at him, but then changed to a tearful lament. Christian removed his helmet as well. He had warned her. Ira Mendoza had brought this bane on herself and her people. But this day would weigh on his mind for a long time after…

TO BE CONTINUED
*Ending Theme plays*
(‘Faith of the Heart’ from Star Trek: Enterprise)

Next Time
*Next Episode Promo Theme plays*
(‘Spielban yokokuhen ongaku’ from Jiku Senshi Spielban)​

Kenmer Ranew, the Yankee Clipper crew and their friends face Osiris in a final showdown; Debbie Montague is expelled from the Odyssey program; the Vanguard surveyor vessel begins approaching Earth to purge all remaining evidence of their presence.

 

[Black Fang]

Chapter 16: Vengeance – Part 1​

“I’ll answer your questions. My name is Kenmer Ranew. I’m a Space Sheriff in the Galactic Union Police. We monitor and protect all worlds in this galaxy, even those not aware of us like yours. To be honest, much of our activity is in more advanced planets. But when word was gotten that the Vanguard was up to something here again, I was sent to investigate. Though I suppose I’ve done a bit more than that.â€
“How do you mean?†asked Perry.
“Well I was supposed to observe and report only. But I saw what they were doing to your people and couldn’t just watch anymore. I had to give a hand yesterday. But Osiris did have a point, I must admit: I can’t bring his crew in by myself. And now they’re aware the GUP is on to them.â€
“Is that why you invited us here?†asked Valentina. “You want us to help you?â€
“That seems rather backwards to me†said Toby.
“Oh no†said Kenmer. “Don’t take what those fiends say to heart. Indeed you may help me, but I am here to offer you my help. So perhaps I’m asking us to work together, as we both could use a partner.â€

The four looked at each other. In any other situation Kenmer might be facing an inquiry and detainment by whichever government got to him first. But there weren’t many options available.
“What do you think?†Lincoln asked Valentina. “You’re the ones on the front line.â€
Valentina pasued for a moment, and then nodded with a smile. “Ok. Let’s do it.â€
“Excellent†said Kenmer. He extended his hand to shake, a bit awkwardly. Valentina accepted.
“I’m Valentina. Burshteyn. And these are Toby Reynolds, Perry Shankar and Lincoln Cartwright.â€
“We’d be obliged if your people could help us find one of our ships when this is done†said Perry, stepping forward. “We were attacked and I taken prisoner. I don’t know what happened to the rest of my crew.â€
“We have heard of this†said Kenmer gravely. “I’m not optimistic, but I shall see what we can do.â€
“Thank you.†He and Lincoln shook the Sheriff’s hand as well. “Would you like to come with us? We can collaborate together.â€
“A good idea.†They got back into their ships and flew away together…

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“Hang on Doctor!†Debbie screamed, scrambling for some idea.
“How did that get on the Station anyway?†asked Christian. “All the samples were taken to Earth.â€
“Is this really the right time to ask that?†Debbie moved to attack again, but one of the outer vines knocked her aside. Jaden grabbed her and pulled her off to the side near Seraphina.
“Get it off!†Mendoza wailed. She appeared quite the contrast to her self-certain haughty self that she normally passed for. Christian and Jaden began climbing toward the inner vines and began cutting and shooting to get to Mendoza, while Debbie bathed the outer vines with fire. Seraphina found a large flask of a corrosive and threw it on the mass, causing it to burn away and retreat. Christian shot off the remaining vines aroud Mendoza and with Jaden lifted her to safety.

The mass was still alive however; the surviving vines began to slither toward the group.
“Why don’t they just die?†Seraphina exclaimed.
“Seal them in before they get out!†ordered Christian.
“Wait!†said Mendoza. She dove to the floor, dangerously close to the approaching vines, and began tearing a leaf from a dead vine.
“What the hell are you doing?!†yelled Christian.
“ I only need one piece to continue the work!â€
“Are you insane? These things have done enough damage! Let us kill them in peace for once.â€
“Don’t you want to understand them?!â€
“I understand them enough, and I want them dead. Now get out before I seal you in with them.â€
“NO!†yelled Debbie. She glared at Christian. “What’s wrong with you?â€
“What’s wrong with me? What’s wrong with your doctor friend? All that smarts and she can’t see reason!â€
“Just hold on a moment!†Mendoza tore off a mid-sized leaf from the vine and turned back to the group, but a vine grabbed her ankle. Debbie fired her cannon at the mass. The doctor scrambled to the door but it was fast catching up.
“They’ll get out!†cried Jaden. Christian could wait no longer. He pressed a few buttons on the wall console and began closing the door.
“Doctor!†screamed Debbie. Mendoza dove for the door. In a panic she put herself between the descending door and the floor, trying to keep it open for the doctor to crawl under.
“Get back! The door will crush you!†Debbie refused and cried out as she felt her shoulder get ground down. Mendoza was almost there. But a vine began to enter the hallway. Out of options, Christian pulled Debbie out from beneath the door and let it close all the way, leaving Mendoza on the other side.
“Mendoza!!†Debbie tried to open the door again but the seal was set. Mendoza banged on it and looked back on the monstrosity she had so foolishly saved from destruction. A sickening puncture was heard as a barbed vine stabbed the doctor beneath her ribcage. The other vines crashed against the door and retreated upon failing to get through. Mendoza slumped to the floor where she slowly bled out.

Debbie and Seraphina turned away. Jaden closed his eyes and hung his head. Christian let his tools fall to the floor and stepped back. Debbie removed her helmet and turned to her teammate. For a moment she cast a furious gaze at him, but then changed to a tearful lament. Christian removed his helmet as well. He had warned her. Ira Mendoza had brought this bane on herself and her people. But this day would weigh on his mind for a long time after…

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*Opening Theme plays*
(Tokusou Exceedraft OP Instrumental)

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The events after Ira Mendoza’s sudden death were all a blur. Shepard Station was put on lockdown and an investigation was immediately launched. Each member of the Yankee Clipper crew spent a new round of interrogation, none easier than the last time. In fact this was even harder; last time no one had been hurt and killed. The team was soon grounded until further notice, but Debbie received the full front of it. After a painstaking review of everything that had happened from the evacuation of the island laboratory to the Phytomorph escape on the Station, they investigators had determined Debbie’s part in the affair.

When she received word that she had been expelled from NASA, she wasn’t surprised. It was expected; after the incident with the sabotaging of her rival’s experiments which she and Mendoza had protested innocence, the administrators would not tolerate a second slip-up. Debbie expected her teammates to attack her for this, but when they found out they said nothing. Toby tried to give an encouraging “not your fault†smile, which made Debbie feel worse. She had been asked about how she had acquired the Thallos Cytector without authorization and had claimed she had taken it without Toby’s knowledge. Debbie had to laugh at herself; a short while ago she would have been quick to throw a guy like him under the bus to save herself, anything to reclaim her reputation. But that time when Toby had said he would get her this prize that had come to him by luck, without any thought to himself and even without his usual flirtatious tone, her perception had begun to change. Lying to protect him was her thanks. She hoped he would comprehend.

In all the disarray, Kenmer Ranew had been almost forgotten. Upon discovering the Station in crisis, the Space Sheriff had agreed to stay away for the time being until they could reestablish contact. The day after Debbie was fired, they did just that.
“Damn them†he whispered after Oliver and Lincoln told him everything. “I’m sorry for your loss.â€
Lincoln gave a single nod of thanks and looked grim. If only his critics could see him now, Christian thought, remembering the slander laid upon him by people like Mendoza.
“What are we going to do from here?†asked Oliver.
“We have to find Osiris†said Lincoln. “But as you’re grounded that will be a problem.â€
“Can you guys leave the Station at all, or can you just not take your ships?†asked Jaden.
“They weren’t clear, but I doubt they won’t object to us leaving our rooms at this point†said Christian.
“How do we know Osiris and his people didn’t already leave?†asked Valentina
“They haven’t yet†Kenmer explained. “I can still detect a trace signature from their vessel, even though it’s quite well hidden. We still have a window.â€
“But not for long†said Seraphina. “We need a plan now.â€

“Leave Osiris to me†said Kenmer after a moment. “I can start the search, and you can join me when you come up with a way to get off the Station.â€
“Assuming we can come up with a way†said Lincoln. “My trick last time won’t do.â€
“Just put your heads together and I’m sure you can pull it off†Kenmer smiled.
“Your faith in us might be misplaced†said Oliver.
“I don’t think so. I’ll be waiting for you. Good luck!†Kenmer winked and cut off transmission. Lincoln turned to the others.
“Alright people. This will be our last chance to get these guys and, God willing, find a way to get the Odyssey crew back. We need to a way to get to our ships and escape.â€
“But what if Kenmer needs help before we can?†asked Toby.
“I’ll go down with my ship†said Jaden. “And Seraphina can come with me. We’re not part of this crew, so we’re free to leave as we please.â€
“Good idea†said Lincoln. “You’ll need Kenmer’s frequency to contact him.â€
“And lots of weapons†added Christian.
“And a big slice of luck†finished Toby.
“Save some for the rest of us†said Oliver. He approached the two and laid his hands on their shoulders.
“I never thanked you for all your help so far.â€
“I want them back as much as you†said Seraphina. Oliver felt the conviction I her eyes and nodded.
“Go. We’ll catch upâ€

He and Jaden shook hands, and then the two left or Jaden’s ship. Lincoln transmitted the data for communication to them and then returned to the others.
“Let’s get started.â€

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To any passerby on the street, Kenmer at a distance appeared like someone going to an evening costume party. Indeed he tried not to draw any more attention to himself than necessary as he went on foot toward Carver Santana’s house. From his ship he had accessed Earth records and pinpointed where the NASA bureaucrat had lived, and where his imposter now took up residence. When he reached the house, Kenmer casually looked through the windows and rang the doorbell. No response, but he hadn’t expected his enemy to. Instead he began looking around the yard for any clues. Was he hiding, or had he already disappeared?

A bright light suddenly passed inside the house. Kenmer dashed to the window to see what it was, but it quickly was extinguished. Before he could puzzle over this, another surprise snuck up behind him. Three crystalline golems attacked Kenmer. He wrestled out of their grip and briefly fought with them, spilling back into the yard. Finally the Sheriff leapt up and summoned his armor suit.

His ship came out of the clouds and shed a beam of light onto Kenmer. In an instant, a silvery-blue suit resembling copper sulfate crystals fused together covered his body. As he descended he fired shots from his laser at the golems, shattering them on impact. He kicked away a piece of crystal and looked around wildly for Osiris but still saw nothing, even when he tried scanning.
“Nothing. Maybe I just set off some defense system…†he thought. But suddenly he found that his ship was shaking in the air. It looked like it was caught by some kind of tractor beam. A figure appeared on the roof of the house and started toward the ship.
“Osiris!â€
Kenmer drew his sword and aimed it and his laser at the alien. He noticed a device on his body.
“Surprised, Sheriff? I’ve been wondering if this device could block your sensors. It seems it does.â€
“What are you doing with my ship?â€
“Borrowing it. I need a way off this planet since the humans destroyed my own.â€
“Ah. In that case go ahead. Just as long as you’re my prisoner and we’re going back to GUP HQ.â€
Osiris laughed. Kenmer leapt to the roof and a duel ensued. The scientist was tougher than he expected now that he was fighting him directly. Osiris telekinetically threw Kenmer’s sword away as he tried to strike a blow. The Sheriff responded with a gunshot but he deflected with the crystalline material he used to make the golems. As the ship descended to roof-level, Osiris now threw Kenmer to the ground and leapt inside.

Kenmer had to act fast. Retrieving his sword he shot a long thin cable from his arm that latched onto the underside of the ship, and began retracting himself along it as Osiris began flying away. Noticing him, Osiris trained the guns backward and fired repeatedly. Cursing to himself Kenmer increased the retraction and clung to the blind spot of the ship’s underside to avoid being shot down. Now came the hard part of getting inside. Osiris veered upward. Higher and higher they went until they were at the very edge of Earth’s atmosphere. Kenmer clung on for dear life.

Osiris then intercepted a hailing. Someone was trying to communicate with the Sheriff it seemed. Osiris ignored it and began tracking down its source. Presently he came upon Jaden Tien’s cargo runner drifting through the boundary between atmosphere and vacuum.
“There’s his ship!†Seraphina exclaimed suddenly to Jaden.
“But why isn’t he answering my hails?†Jaden wondered. He soon got his answer as he found Kenmer clutching to the underbelly of his own ship.
“What the hell is he doing there? Who’s -?†The alien vessel interrupted him by flying in close enough to rub across the runner’s top. Kenmer saw he was trying to get him off. At this rate he didn’t see many other options, so he let go and slid across Jaden’s ship. He released his coil again and caught it on a railing going along the hull. Jaden decreased power to the engines to slow down and allow Kenmer to crawl along. Seraphina disabled the safety on the hatch and opened it for Kenmer to get through, all the while tightly gripping a grabhold to prevent herself from being sucked out.
“Thanks†said Kenmer when he was finally inside. Seraphina gazed at his shining suit for a moment as he went toward the cockpit.
“I was wondering why you weren’t answering me†said Jaden upon seeing him.
“Osiris stole my ship. Go after him before he gets away!â€
“In a ship like this?â€
“Don’t worry. I have an idea.â€

They began pursuing Osiris as best they could. Osiris trained the guns on them again and fired.
“Raise your shields!†Osiris yelled as they were bombarded.
“What shields? This is a cargo ship, not some fighter craft.â€
“Do you at least have weapons then?â€
“Only enough to blow away small meteors and such.â€
Kenmer thought for a moment. “If we can get closer it may be enough.â€
Jaden set the engines at maximum output. The three could feel the ship strain as it caught up to its prey. Osiris continued firing on them and causing mounting damage.
“Any more of this and we’re through!†said Seraphina.
“Just one moment†Kenmer took out a small palm pilot-console and punched in some codes. Osiris was startled as his stolen ship’s control panel shorted out and deactivated. The ship computer shut down and deleted all data about itself, Kenmer and the Space Sheriffs.
“Fire now!†Kenmer barked as they were almost on top of Osiris. Jaden came around and fired the lasers at the front. A small explosion knocked the Sheriff’s vessel away, scattering debris everywhere. Osiris was thrown into the wall. Shards of metal pierced through him and fire washed over his body. He cursed Kenmer for his trick and managed to drag his injured body back into the chair. The crippled shift soon disappeared from sight.

“What did you do?†asked Seraphina, regarding Kenmer’s console.
“I wiped the computer on the ship clean and disabled all functions save the engines. He’ll get away, but at least he won’t have information on the G.U.P. to share.â€
“But now how can we get to him and his friends?†asked Jaden.
“With what we’ve got left†said Seraphina. It was meant to sound brave, but it felt more like stating the plain, disheartening facts. The enemies this time were not mindless brutes. Even with what the team had created and fought through, would what they had be enough for the monsters’ creators?

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A small spaceship limped in front of the Vanguard vessel. Inside the aliens looked on as the small ship entered the hangar bay. Osiris stumbled out and at once began making his way to the bridge, ignoring everyone else’s gaze. When he at last arrived he collapsed on one knee and glared at the commander.
“This ... this is what the humans can do?†The others looked amongst themselves and back to the two.
“You allowed them to do this†replied the commander dispassionately. “Nonetheless your performance has borne fruit and you shall be rewarded.â€
“I doubt I’ll live to see it†Osiris went down on both knees now and clutched his body, but continued to put up as dignified a posture as possible. He appeared as one in genuflection rather than one near death. The commander’s eyes seem to smile and he slowly lifted Osiris up to his feet.
“Look down on this planet and have the last laugh. They will soon be forgotten once again and we will continue to dominate the galaxy.â€

Osiris stood unmoving for a good while looking upon this small blue sphere. He had devoted his knowledge and skill to the Phytomorphs’ development, infiltrated the humans’ organizations, and kept them ignorant for as long as he could. A pity now that he would not receive his rightful reward on the homeworld. His body began to fail him; stumbled backward and landed in the commander’s chair.
“I might have asked for this planet as a reward…†he mumbled to himself. “A quiet spot to retire to.â€
The commander snorted. He hid his slight displeasure at his seat being taken. Osiris leaned back into the chair and at last quietly expired. Some underlings were the ordered to take his body away.

The Vanguard commander walked back towards his chair and stood in front of it. “Prepare for departure†he commanded to the crew. Their work here was done…

TO BE CONTINUED
*Ending Theme plays*
(‘Faith of the Heart’ from Star Trek: Enterprise)

Next Time: Project Odyssey Finale
*Next Episode Promo Theme plays*
(‘Spielban yokokuhen ongaku’ from Jiku Senshi Spielban)​

The heroes race to catch the fleeing Vanguard ship in a final confrontation.

 

[Black Fang]

Chapter 17: Vengeance – Part 2​

Kenmer, Jaden and Seraphina began pursuing Osiris as best they could. Osiris trained the guns on them again and fired.
“Raise your shields!†Osiris yelled as they were bombarded.
“What shields? This is a cargo ship, not some fighter craft.â€
“Do you at least have weapons then?â€
“Only enough to blow away small meteors and such.â€
Kenmer thought for a moment. “If we can get closer it may be enough.â€
Jaden set the engines at maximum output. The three could feel the ship strain as it caught up to its prey. Osiris continued firing on them and causing mounting damage.
“Any more of this and we’re through!†said Seraphina.
“Just one moment†Kenmer took out a small palm pilot-console and punched in some codes. Osiris was startled as his stolen ship’s control panel shorted out and deactivated. The ship computer shut down and deleted all data about itself, Kenmer and the Space Sheriffs.
“Fire now!†Kenmer barked as they were almost on top of Osiris. Jaden came around and fired the lasers at the front. A small explosion knocked the Sheriff’s vessel away, scattering debris everywhere. Osiris was thrown into the wall. Shards of metal pierced through him and fire washed over his body. He cursed Kenmer for his trick and managed to drag his injured body back into the chair. The crippled shift soon disappeared from sight.

“What did you do?†asked Seraphina, regarding Kenmer’s console.
“I wiped the computer on the ship clean and disabled all functions save the engines. He’ll get away, but at least he won’t have information on the G.U.P. to share.â€
“But now how can we get to him and his friends?†asked Jaden.
“With what we’ve got left†said Seraphina. It was meant to sound brave, but it felt more like stating the plain, disheartening facts. The enemies this time were not mindless brutes. Even with what the team had created and fought through, would what they had be enough for the monsters’ creators?

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Osiris stood unmoving for a good while looking upon this small blue sphere. He had devoted his knowledge and skill to the Phytomorphs’ development, infiltrated the humans’ organizations, and kept them ignorant for as long as he could. A pity now that he would not receive his rightful reward on the homeworld. His body began to fail him; he stumbled backward and landed in the commander’s chair.
“I might have asked for this planet as a reward…†he mumbled to himself. “A quiet spot to retire to.â€
The commander snorted. He hid his slight displeasure at his seat being taken. Osiris leaned back into the chair and at last quietly expired. Some underlings were the ordered to take his body away.

The Vanguard commander walked back towards his chair and stood in front of it. “Prepare for departure†he commanded to the crew. Their work here was done…

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As Jaden’s courier limped back to Shepherd Station the three finalized their plan.
“I can do a spacewalk to the Yankee Clipper easily enough†the Sheriff explained. “But I wonder about you two. How are you going to get off without drawing attention?â€
“We have some spare spacesuits here†said Jaden. We could crawl out way out to either the Clipper or Falcon, but we would need to dock close by and then use tethers. And we’d have to be fast about it lest we’re noticed.â€
“Get to it then†said Kenmer a bit authoritatively. Perhaps being the one with the most knowledge and skill for a change had given him an ego-boost. Nevertheless Jaden did as ordered. He turned on the distress beacons, brought his ship to a gate close to where the Falcon was docked and set it to autopilot. Their beacon was soon answered by authorities on the Station and Earth, but they ignored their inquiries to hastily put on their suits. Kenmer went ahead of them and glided gracefully with little thrusters around his body toward the Yankee Clipper. Jaden helped attach Seraphina’s tether and together they carefully began to float and crawl away from any potential voyeurs within the Station toward the Falcon.

When Kenmer reached the Clipper he hovered toward the hatch closest to the cockpit. He brought out a small all-purpose device carried by all Space Sheriffs and placed it on the door. The device lit up and whirred and clicked, which went unheard in this airless vacuum. The door unlocked and Kenmer dragged it open. Alarms began going off. At once the air rushed out from within. Kenmer lifted himself inside and relocked the door, then immediately went inside the cockpit and placed his device on the console. It connected itself to the ship’s computer and began stabilizing the oxygen levels.

“Kenmer to Oliver†Kenmer called to Oliver in his quarters, where the others were also gathered. “I’ve boarded the Yankee Clipper. Jaden and Seraphina are in the Falcon. All we need now is you.â€
“How did you get in from the outside?†asked Toby.
“You can ask that later†said Valentina. “Right now we need a distraction.â€
“I’ve got that taken care of†said Jaden, now coming in from the Falcon. He wiped the perspiration from his brow. Floating in space took a lot more out of a person than one would expect. “Osiris gave my ship a bit of a beating. I let it dock on autopilot. You should be able to avoid any attention.â€
“We’ll meet you soon then†said Oliver. “Hang in there.â€

The crew left Oliver’s quarters and quickly began to head toward the Clipper and Falcon. Sure enough the Station authorities were busy with the courier vessel. A security team was attempting to enter the ship; apparently it was thought something had happened to its captain that he couldn’t answer their hails. Valentina, Debbie and Toby entered the Falcon, while the rest went to the Clipper.
“Let’s hurry†said Kenmer. “The Vanguard will likely be leaving soon. We have to catch up with them.â€
They began preparing the ships for departure. The docking clamps were released and the engines turned on. All seemed well as they slowly glided away from the Station until a call from flight control patched through.
“Attention. You do not have authorization to fly. Return to the Station immediately.â€
“Don’t answer†said Lincoln. They continued on their way until they were enough of a distance away. Continuing to ignore the hails, they set the engines at maximum power and began to fly off into space.

Oliver, Christian and Valentina suited up into their Cytectors. Debbie watched this and began to feel uncomfortable. Thus far she had simply tagged along with the others, seeing as they had not explicitly told her not to come. This was a sudden reminder of her predicament. She tried focusing on the controls but then Toby handed her the Thallos TectorGrip. Debbie looked at him in surprise.
“I can’t - â€
“Take it. I can do a better job backing you all up.â€
Debbie looked at Toby for a moment in awe, then took the TectorGrip and suited up with the others. Her teammates looked at her armored form. They had not expected her to use the Cytector again but did not protest. In this hopefully final confrontation there was no room for strife within the team. Now was the time for unity…

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Project Odyssey Finale​

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The two ships raced through the blackness of space. At first they saw nothing. But then suddenly a massive wall appeared in front of them. Just in time Oliver and Christian slowed the craft and diverted them away before they crashed.
“Good god†Lincoln whispered. Pulling back and flying alongside they got a picture of what had come their way. “That’s it†said Kenmer. “That’s the Vanguard’s ship.†It dwarfed the Clipper and Falcon, like a solitary whale harassed by puny fish.
“This is gonna be a problem†muttered Christian.
“An understatement if I ever heard one†said Oliver. He turned to Kenmer. “I really hope you have a plan because there’s no way we can fight that.â€
Kenmer brought up a diagram of the ship. “We could get in through the hangar bay. The defenses are weakest there.â€
“And then what? Get out and start blasting?†a skeptical Valentina asked.
“Just enough for us to get into their central terminal. I can then hack in and download the locations of the Odyssey crewmen. And hopefully do some damage in the process.â€
“Can we blow them up?†asked Toby.
“Just stick to getting the data†said Lincoln. “In and out. One second more and we may not be going home.â€
“Alright, people. Get ready to follow me†announced Kenmer.

The Vanguard had yet to notice them, or indicate that they had. The Falcon and Clipper carefully maneuvered behind the colossal ship and approached the locked hangar bay. Small underside cannons suddenly sprang out of hiding places.
“They’ve seen us!†said Debbie. The cannons fired on them, prompting a raising of shields. They did little good. Kenmer leaned over the console next to Oliver.
“Fly straight forward and keep firing on the doors!†Christian complied with some missiles. Oliver added to them the Clipper’s weak lasers. The doors soon blasted apart and an emergency force field immediately activated to prevent the air inside the hangar from escaping.
“GO!†They flew straight inside the hangar and landed, knocking away some parked fighters. Kenmer took out his device and placed it on his forearm. A map to the terminal appeared on screen.
“I’ll go with Christian†Oliver instructed to the others. “The rest of you give us cover.â€

Vanguard troops attacked the crew as soon as they scrambled out. Valentina and Debbie shot and grappled with any that tried to stop the escaping trio, while Lincoln, Jaden, Toby and Seraphina gave extra firepower from the two ships. The alien vessel was dimly lit. Their footfalls made loud clanging echoes through the corridors. As the two astronauts followed Kenmer more Vanguards appeared. Some of them had their own crystalline golems of varying colors and types. The Space Sheriff fought his way through, careful to keep his navigator from damage.
“How much further?†asked Christian as they took down the last golem in a new corridor. Kenmer looked down at the device.
“Odd… according to this we’re right on top of it.â€
Christian looked around for an entrance. “I don’t see anything. Maybe it got the location wrong.â€
“This thing is foolproof†said Kenmer. On the screen more Vanguard suddenly flooded out from where the terminal should have been.
“Where are they coming from?â€
Oliver thought for a moment. “Maybe it’s on another level. Above or below.â€
“Of course!†said Kenmer, hitting himself on the head for missing this. “This doesn’t account for height. I should have considered that.â€
“But is it above or below?†asked Christian, keeping his Artemis rifle ready. They looked around. A passage leading to the upper levels and one leading to the lower were placed a few feet away from where they stood. One of them would soon release their alien foes.
“We’ll wait for which hall they come from. Then one of us must go down there while the remainder take care of the guards.â€
“I’ll go†said Kenmer. “I can interface with the terminal.â€
“No surprise there†said Christian. “I just hope we can all regroup in time and get out of here.â€
The Vanguard soon appeared from the upper hall. Oliver and Christian fired whatever weapons they could simultaneously access, scattering the enemy enough for Kenmer to slip through. He realized he would have to check each level he passed, a task that would steal even more time from what little they had…

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Meanwhile the commotion had not gone unnoticed by the Vanguard commander. He barked an order for a report. “The hangar is taking too much damage†came the reply. He sat back in his chair, furling and unfurling his shadowed hand. “Close the backup hangar doors†he ordered. “Force them to leave or stay.â€

In the hangar, the heroes had managed to take care of the alien attackers. Mangled fighters and strewn bodies littered the floor. Scorch marks from the ships’ artillery decorated the walls and smoke wafted all around.
“What’s that?†asked Debbie suddenly. She heard a loud whirring noise coming from within the walls. With Valentina they raised their weapons, bracing themselves for another assault. Instead two giant doors by the blow-out entrance slowly began to roll toward each other.
“Damn†she whispered. “They’re sealing us in!†she yelled to the others inside.
“Get back here!†ordered Lincoln. “Take off before the doors close!â€
“But what about Ollie and Christian?†asked Valentina.
“We’ll be locked in with them if we don’t leave. Now come one!â€
Jaden and Seraphina exchanged panicked glances. Toby stared at the doorway the three had went through as if expecting them to arrive in the nick of time. But there was no sign of them.
“Don’t worry†said Lincoln as the girls got onboard the Clipper. “We’ll just have to improvise now.â€

The two ships backed out of the hangar just before the doors closed in and locked. The commander though was unfazed. With a calm wave of his hand he ordered the cannons to fire. Now that the intruders were out in the open, they had the advantage. All their weapons in every location was set to target the Clipper and Falcon; no matter where they went, even beneath, they would be shot. The astronauts flew around and fired back with little success. They were clearly outmatched. Shots hit and grazed them continuously.
“What do we do now??†yelled Seraphina. Jaden wrestled with the controls as he avoided a large cannon protruding port side.
“Aurum! Azure!†Valentina yelled into the com unit in her helmet. “Ollie, Christian!†No response. Perhaps the signal couldn’t penetrate the ship. Or perhaps… something worse. There was no way to tell in this state…

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Kenmer at least reached the central terminal, and to his surprise it was unguarded. Not taking any chances, he held his laser and slowly crept into the circular room. At the terminal he removed the navigator from his arm and set it on top. It soon began to access the ship’s computer and all its data. Kenmer quickly set it to search for anything regarding the locations of the Odyssey crewmembers, as well as any potential weaknesses in the alien empire’s organization. It was an immense amount of data to sort through. Progress was slow even for G.U.P.’s technology. Kenmer waited impatiently.

Just then a figure appeared through one of the entrances surrounding the terminal. A tall Vanguard bearing a large halberd-like weapon stood before the Sheriff. The top as adorned with the same crystalline material as the golems, but cut and sharpened into a strong, thin blade. Beneath his helmet Kenmer blanched. He looked at his device; still not even half done. Quickly he placed himself between the terminal and the Vanguard. The alien spoke in his native tongue. Kenmer feigned confidence and shrugged. “You’ll have to make me.â€

He drew his sword and their duel commenced. Kenmer could barely scratch his opponent, as he skillfully parried his every blow and dealt some of his own in kind. He tried to maneuver him away from the console as his machine continued its painfully slow download. A heavy swing of the weapon however forced him to duck and it caught itself on the console edge. Sparks flew and the download stopped. Kenmer’s heart froze for a moment, but then the download started up again.

The Vanguard reached for the device to tear it away, but Kenmer fired his laser several times at his chest, driving him back. The Sheriff followed after, sword raised. He saw the halberd stabbing toward his chest and spun around, but not before the crystal blade sliced across his chest and let fall a trickle of sparks. Seeing an opening, Kenmer continued his spin, facing the Vanguard again and slashing diagonally across the front. The alien gave a shriek and went down on one knee. Kenmer shot a glance back at the device: almost done. While his foe was still down he took his chance. He charged up his blade and swung down. It lodged in the Vanguard’s shoulder before he caught Kenmer’s arm and tried to shove him away. But the Sheriff persisted, and soon broke off the sinister hand and sliced across the torso again. The Vanguard tumbled over and lay still.

Unsure whether he was dead, Kenmer started to remove the cloak and see just what lay beneath, this mysterious and dangerous extraterrestrial race. But the device signaled loudly that the download was complete. Kenmer raced back and removed it from the console, and thanked his luck. He gave a quick glance at the data that would be sorted out after their escape and then set the device to pinpoint Oliver and Christian. He looked again at his fallen opponent. Whether he was dead or not, it was perhaps best not to wait around and get away while he had a chance. He began following their signal…

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Oliver and Christian were not having fun. They had slowly led the Vanguard away from Kenmer down the myriad of winding hallways. Now they had no idea where they were, all the while trying to evade their pursuers’ attacks. Even worse, the Cytectors’ power levels were reaching their nadir.
“I think our time’s about run out†Christian quipped. The two had ducked behind a wall and the sound of the approaching aliens rang louder and louder. This looked like the end.

But by another stroke of luck Kenmer had found their location and flung himself into the mass of soldiers. He cut and shot down a handful and threw a grenade at the rest, throwing them out of the way.
“Sorry for the wait†the Sheriff greeted as he went back to the two.
“Did you get the info?†asked Oliver.
“I did. Now let’s get outta here before we’re swarmed again.â€
Christian tried to contact the others but got no response. “Something’s wrong. They’re not answering.â€
“You don’t think…?†started Oliver, fearing the worst. They then heard the faint echoes of artillery fire from the ship’s cannons.
“Listen. They’re shooting at something†said Kenmer. “But what?â€
“Try to see where the others are†said Christian. Kenmer went to his device and discovered the truth to his dismay. “They’re flying outside.â€
“What? Why did they leave without us?â€
“My guess would be they were trying to trap them inside with us†said Kenmer. “Now the Vanguard have us and the others will be blown to bits.â€

The astronauts groaned. Everything now seemed hopeless.
“Is there any way to contact them or get off the ship?†asked Oliver.
Kenmer paused, trying to recall what he knew about Vanguard ship schematics. “There’s usually a hatch at the highest deck of these ships that lead to the outside. The crew will walk around on top to do things while in drydock.†He paused to think again. “If they’re firing their shields must be down. If we can get to the hatch we can climb out and call the others again.â€
“I doubt they can pick us up with the cannons all around†said Oliver. “It’d be a close shave.â€
“It’s the only option†said Christian. “Let’s go.â€
Guided by Kenmer they reached the uppermost deck of the ship and began their search for the hatch. Conveniently no more soldiers appeared, but it actually made them more uncomfortable, as though they were walking into a trap. They reached a small pressurization chamber between the outside and the deck. After examining the controls for a moment Kenmer opened the chamber and they clamored inside. The door behind them locked and the door leading outside slowly withdrew. The outside of the ship looked like a long, wide field of metal beneath a night sky. Oliver and Christian activated the gravity boots on their Cytectors and Kenmer did something similar with his suit, and slowly they walked out into the open. Soon they saw the Falcon and Yankee Clipper flying for their lives while the colossal Vanguard ship bombarded them.
“Falcon, Clipper!†Oliver called through the comlink. “Come in!†Free from the confides of the ship their signal now got through to their comrades. “Look!†yelled Seraphina, pointing down at a camera image of the three. “They’re outside the ship!â€
“How the hell did they get out there?†asked Lincoln. “Aurum!†he called. “What are you doing out there??â€
“We could ask you the same thing†said Christian. The three were now feeling quite uncomfortable out here. “Kenmer got the data. Get us outta here!â€
“Easier said than done†said Jaden. “We can’t take much more of this.â€
“Damn†Kenmer muttered. The damaged Clipper was then hit dead on from underneath as it flew over a cannon. A great explosion ripped through its body and the shuttle began to tumble out of control. Oliver and Christian cried out. Seraphina screamed the girls’ names in horror. It was happening again: her friends were dying and she could do nothing. Toby roared and fired everything the Falcon had at the Vanguard.

Moments later the Clipper’s payload bay opened and Lincoln, clad in a spacesuit and wearing a tether for spacewalking, floated out and waved toward the Falcon. Jaden took the hint and flew in as close as he could get. Seraphina raised the ship’s front shields to their limit as they continued to be hit by enemy fire. Shots flew all around Lincoln. He quickly found a handhold on the Falcon and climbed toward a hatch. Toby raced to the pressurization chamber and opened the outside door so Lincoln could come in. A shot then severed the tether. Lincoln clung on for dear life and slowly dragged himself inside. Toby breathed a sigh of relief and shut the door. Lincoln was then let out of the chamber and he collapsed to the floor, his brow drenched with perspiration.
“Are you alright?†Toby asked, but the man waved him away back to the bridge as he caught his breath.

Valentina and Debbie fought to gain back some control of their doomed ship. The Vanguard were now focusing their attention on the Falcon. On the bridge the commander smiled to himself. His viewer displayed the three intruders now standing in the dead vacuum of space outside the ship.
‘Get rid of them.â€
Small turrets appeared around the three. Kenmer sprang into action and deflected some of the shots with his sword, then shot back with his laser, disabling those closest to them.
“We need an idea fast!†said Christian.
“The Vanguards’ shields are down so they can fire at us†said Kenmer. “If we could cripple them in some way we can get our ships close enough to get us and escape without them pursuing.â€
“Great. Now how do we do that?â€
“Clipper!†Kenmer called. “Try to direct yourself toward the Vanguards’ engines and bail out!â€
“You want us to crash into them?†asked Debbie in surprise.
“You’ll never make it back in that condition. This way we can at least survive in one piece.â€

The crew of the Yankee Clipper stayed quiet for a moment. For long months this had been their craft, and their home in space. To end its run here so suddenly had been beyond any of their imaginations. But now they had no other choice.
“She’s had a good run†said Valentina. Oliver wanted to say something poignant, but couldn’t find any words. “Consider this your revenge for all those bouts of nausea†Christian quipped back. Valentina and Debbie brought the Clipper around to the rear of the Vanguard ship and programmed it for a final crash into the engines. Once it was underway, they scrambled to the airlock and evacuated with their jetpacks. The Clipper shot forward like a meteor and a few seconds later struck the engines and blew up. The explosion from the impact resembled a miniscule sun. In the bridge chaos ensued, and as Kenmer hoped the Falcon was for the moment forgotten. The Falcon flew in to pick up Valentina and Debbie and then descended as close as possible to the enemy vessel. Oliver and Christian jettisoned up and Kenmer used his suit’s levitation ability to reach their lifeboat.

Once they were all at last onboard, Jaden rammed the engines to their maximum output. The Vanguard commander saw them make their escape. Amidst the confusion and disarray he ordered his henchmen to fire a last vengeful shot. This shot managed to take an eye for an eye, so to speak, as it hit the Falcon’s engines. They began to lose power. Jaden, Seraphina and Toby fought to maintain control. The crew of the Clipper however, exhausted from their spacewalk, battle damage and now the force from a careening spaceship, began to pass out…

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Oliver suddenly woke up in bed. He was in a small cramped room that stood for a crude sickbay with the other Yankee Clipper crewmen and Lincoln. Their suits had been removed, and all of them were drifting in and out of consciousness. Kenmer, Toby, Jaden and Seraphina were nowhere to be seen. Oliver slowly oriented himself as he rose off the bed to his feet. Still feeling a bit dizzy, he slowly wobbled out of the room toward the cockpit.

Once there he found that Toby, Jaden and Seraphina were asleep in their chairs. Kenmer was wide awake and greeted Oliver with a smile.
“You’re up. How about the others?â€
“Still out of it, I suppose†Oliver mumbled. He shook his head and rubbed his eyes, trying to wake up fully. “What happened? Where are we?â€
“Ah. That… well I’d rather everyone was here, but there’s good and bad news.
Oliver sighed. “What’s the bad news?â€
“That last shot the Vanguard gave us damaged the engines. I guess one good turn deserves another†Oliver gave a mirthless smirk. “We may not have enough power to return to Earth.â€
“Apollo 13, déjà vu†Oliver muttered to himself.
“What?â€
“Nothing. What’s the good news?â€
“I’ve contacted a fellow Sheriff in a nearby solar system. His deputy is coming with reinforcements and a ship for me. With the info I nabbed we can start looking for your lost friends.â€

Oliver was relieved. At last it was over. He and his crew could go back to their lives. Kenmer smiled a bit more awkwardly, which Oliver now noticed.
“I’m sorry…. I was thinking that you would want to come with us.â€
Oliver paused. “We probably should. After all this is our affair, and I don’t think I’d be comfortable letting some aliens no one knows about do all the work.â€
“We’re going into dangerous territory†said Kenmer. “Even with a ship like this you wouldn’t be able to keep up or last long. The Vanguards’ fleet pales in comparison to the actual warships.â€
“How comforting.†Oliver sat down and skimmed the readings and lights on the console. “Will your friends get us to Earth?â€
“We’ll be towing you to just outside Earth orbit. You can take it from there.â€
“We’ll have a lot of explaining to do though.â€
“Why? You are all heroes. You should get the appropriate welcome home.â€
“But NASA was sending the Odyssey into danger and they knew it. They let us handle the Phytomorphs but though they were the ancient aliens, or related to them. When we get home this is going to be covered up as much as possible. We’ll all be sworn to silence.â€
This was all unexpected coming from him. For so long he had been the dreamer, the adorer of the great institution dedicated to man’s exploration of the cosmos. Even in the midst of their fights he had kept his dream. But in the end that’s all it was. Oliver scolded himself. He couldn’t let himself come to this, even after all that had happened. But the facts were hard to bear. Like a soldier who doesn’t feel the pain of a blown off appendage when his adrenaline is coursing through him in battle, he had cast the truth aside for the sake of defeating the enemy. Now who was the enemy? Should he and the others demand answers from NASA and the government? Should the existence of these ETs be relieved once and for all? Would that help at all?

Kenmer slapped Oliver on the shoulder. “Come now, you can’t let your friends here you. They need you to be the dreaming leader.â€
“I might have woken up from the dream†said Oliver.
“You still love being in space. You still want to see what is out there and make a name for yourself.â€
Oliver gave a slight embarrassed grin. “Still want my parade, as Christian would say.â€
“It’s not over, Oliver†said Kenmer with all seriousness. “Maybe one day one of us will be running into you somewhere†he continued with a wave out toward the endless sea of stars. “I won’t tell you want to do with your superiors, but I only ask that you don’t quit doing what you want simply because of what happened here. Space is far bigger than that.â€

Oliver looked at the Space Sheriff a moment and nodded. They looked out into the starscape for a while until Kenmer received a message from the deputy that the reinforcements had arrived. A ship about Falcon’s size flew above, while a smaller one came about and, to Oliver’s surprise, managed to dock with the Earth vessel. A female deputy came halfway through the created passage and spoke briefly to Kenmer. She then gave a smile to Oliver who was standing outside and went back to her ship. Kenmer turned to Oliver.
“This is where we part, friend. The other ship will take you back to Earth. I will be heading first to one of G.U.P.’s bases to confer with my superiors, and then we’ll be off. Once we have found out what has happened to the Odyssey crew, I shall contact you.â€
“Will that be possible?†Oliver wondered.
“Maybe. Or else I’ll just fly here again and see you in person. That would be better.â€
Oliver looked around for any more of the crew that might have awoken, but saw none. He had hoped they could all see their ally off. “I guess this is goodbye for now.â€
“For now†said Kenmer. “But before I leave I should give you this.â€

*Ending Theme plays*
(‘Faith of the Heart’ from Star Trek: Enterprise)​

He handed Oliver a large cube that the woman had given him. “What is it?†asked Oliver.
“A holographic map of what you humans call Tyche, my homeworld†replied Kenmer.
“All the way past the Oort Cloud? I didn’t think it existed.â€
“t exists. Think of this as a teaser for what awaits you†Kenmer winked.
Oliver ran his hands over the cube until he found a switch. He flipped it on and the cube opened up and released a holographic simulation of the Milky Way. It zoomed in toward and through the Oort Cloud, throwing images of ice and rock at Oliver that seemed quite real. A thrilling awe overcame the young astronaut, but then he beheld the giant plant Tyche roaming down its orbital path, a behemoth in this cold, icy ring.

It was a cloudy blue world, completely hiding the people beneath. A ship or two flew by in the distance. On some of the closest ice rocks he could see little structures. Converted satellites? But this was supposed to be a gas giant, wasn’t it? How did they survive so far from the Sun? How had no one discovered them? Oliver would have asked but the sheer wonder of this sight struck him dumb. This was out there waiting for mankind to find. Or maybe… for he, Oliver Hensley to make first contact.
“One day you will see me here…†Oliver whispered.
“Until that day… live well and full†Kenmer replied. A tear welled in Oliver’s eye.

THE END
*Exit Music plays*
(‘Star Trek Voyager’ Opening Theme)​

I hoped you all enjoyed this story. Let me know if you did and/or have any critiques. Thank you.

 

[Black Fang]

Thank you.

 

[gokol]

Interesting but I am not sure It felt Metal Hero me.

 

[Black Fang]

I'll grant that this was more a "spur-of-the-moment" fic than the others I have written, so some of it does feel "unrealized" to me. In what way is it not "Metal Hero"?