Expedition (Galactic Neighborhood Book 1) Read online

  “It would also mean I can still be in more than one place at a time while on board. I don’t believe my duties and abilities will be limited or adversely affected. My examination of the device revealed there is a way to shut it down if something should ever go wrong. Obviously, I would not want such information widely known.”

  Perry considered this and then came to a decision.

  “Mosis, I believe this is your choice to make. Before we activate the device, I would like you to share the shutdown procedure with two people you trust. Otherwise, I have no objections.”

  Mosis had no difficulty complying with Perry’s requirement, as the two individuals he would have chosen were already in the room. Once he explained how the device was turned on and off, Commander McClure held it at arm’s length by the straps and started the activation sequence. A gentle hum was followed by a flash of light, and there he stood. It was eerie in a way, after knowing Mosis for so many years as just a voice, to now see him ‘in the flesh’.

  Unfortunately, none of them considered the need for clothing, and the poor man stood there naked, wearing only the pack. Perry quickly handed him an extra uniform jacket hanging in the small closet, and Mosis secured it around his waist. McClure was sent to ship’s stores for appropriate clothing while the two waited in the ready room. When he returned, Mosis dressed for the first time, enjoying all the sensations his new body provided.

  With the pack under his jacket, no one who looked at him would ever know he was not truly flesh and blood. It was probably going to take the crew some time to get used to the ‘new’ Mosis, but since they already considered him a person, the adjustment in thinking would not be difficult. Perry managed to assign new quarters for Mosis, and ordered Ship’s Systems to include a convenient power transfer station to keep his pack fully charged. Anything else would have to be arranged later.

  ####

  With the Vingah waiting, the excitement of Mosis’ transformation became secondary. The team assembled in the shuttle bay and quickly filed aboard. Since he already made the trip once before, Mosis took the pilot’s chair – another new experience which made him slightly nervous. The bay was depressurized and the doors parted as they informed Khrusos they were on their way. Mosis gently maneuvered the small shuttle out into space and down through the atmosphere. Soon a familiar mountain range loomed up before them, and the huge hidden doors opened as he slowed their approached.

  Mosis gentled the craft through the opening and set it down on the elevated platform with barely a bump. On the way down, the crew prepared to exit the craft. Once they reached the bottom, the shuttle was guided off to the side while the platform returned to the cavern ceiling above. Readings confirmed a light but breathable atmosphere, three quarters Earth gravity, and a temperature of eighty-five degrees. Artificial light flooded the huge chamber as Mosis shut down the systems and opened the hatch. Before they disembarked, Perry reminded them all to be mindful of the lighter gravity and not to exert themselves. Each of them, except Mosis, carried a breather mask in case they became light headed. Confident in his people, Perry and Mosis led the way down the ramp and onto the cavern floor.

  The light flickered with indistinct shadows, and the team looked up to see the Vingah delegation fluttering towards them. The sight was something to behold, especially for humans who had never seen four-foot-high butterflies. Their wings were thick and strong, but still beautifully colored and decorated with a wide array of strategic markings. Their limbs were thin, but sturdy looking, and uniformly black. The carapace coloring was unique to each individual, yet iridescent and reflecting the harsh light. The reaction of the human visitors was diverse, with some having the urge to flee and others enthralled by the beautiful aliens. All, however, held their ground, determined not to embarrass their Captain or spoil first contact.

  The five Vingah landed gently on the smooth rock floor and arranged themselves in a ‘V’ formation, apex pointing towards the center of the line of humans, where Captain Perry stood. Unnoticed until now, each of them wore what appeared to be a silver disk strapped to their upper right forelimb. The Vingah at the front stepped forward and handed Captain Perry an oblong lidded container. Opening it, he found more of the silver disks inside. Mosis scanned them with interest.

  “I believe these are portable translation devices, Captain. I suggest we put them on before we attempt to communicate.”

  Perry and the others attached them to their wrists, and then he stepped forward, and with a small half bow, introduced himself.

  “Captain Christopher Perry of the Expedition. Do I have the pleasure of addressing Governor Thriss?”

  I am Thriss. We are gratified to meet you and your people, Captain Perry. Many seasons have passed while we have waited, and we thank you for responding to our message. If you would follow me please, we have arranged a more comfortable place for our discussion.

  The Vingah delegation formed a single file line behind the Governor and alongside their human counterparts. They made their way across the huge open space towards a hatch in the solid rock wall. At their approach, the hatch opened and the two lines marched through into an odd room. The walls were covered with images of wide open fields, filled with blooming plants of some kind. Scenes of Khrusos in better days, presumably.

  At one end of the room stood five delicate crystal spires, spaced evenly in a semi-circle. The Vingah each climbed onto a spire, with Thriss in the center, and quickly settled themselves. Facing them were eight short hexagon pillars, just high enough to form a comfortable seat – for a human. Following Perry’s example, the Commanders took their seats. Governor Thriss raised her top left forelimb and tapped the crystal three times before she began speaking.

  We represent the decision-making body of the Vingah Collective in all matters of import. We have been given a two-fold task; preserving and defending the remnants of our society here on Khrusos, and securing and colonizing a new home where we may begin again. Allow me to make introductions. Science Councilor, Thataar. Medical Councilor, Tholon. Culture Councilor, Thute. Defense Councilor, Threen.

  As each Councilor was introduced, a slight movement of the head or antennae allowed the humans to match a name with the correct person. Thriss then gestured with her forelimb towards Perry, allowing him to make his own introductions.

  “Thank you Governor Thriss. As the Captain of our vessel, final decisions regarding our journey through space devolve to me. The contributions of my staff members are a critical source of information in making decisions, and are therefore invaluable to me. Beginning on my far right is Lance Crawford, Medical. Mosis, Mission Coordinator. Theresa Arlington, First Officer. Dana McClure, Engineering. Anna Daniels, Life Sciences. Julia Bennett, Planetary Systems. Lastly is Jacob Tascio, who will be serving as our colony leader.”

  Each of the Commanders stood briefly when they were introduced, leaving Perry front and center as he continued.

  “We have very carefully considered the information and proposal you sent to us through Commander Mosis. It is our understanding you desire our assistance in removing you from this planet for resettlement on your new home. In exchange for our help, your people are willing to share your technology and the location of several worlds which may suit our needs. In addition, you are seeking an ongoing non-aggressive, mutually beneficial alliance with us. If we can come to agreement on the details, we are prepared to accept your proposal on all points.”

  The Vingah council members immediately began to stir, all speaking and gesturing at once. The translation devices were unable to keep up with the overlapping exchanges, leaving the human contingent in the dark. Perry looked to Mosis, who gave him a reassuring nod, and returned his attention to the gesticulating Vingah. After several moments, Governor Thriss tapped the spire three times, and the room went silent.

  There is no need for concern, Captain. We are merely…overwhelmed. It is difficult to fully express ourselves to beings who are so unlike us. We are most pleased to accept your offer of assista
nce, and are eager to begin. Perhaps it would be beneficial for our counterparts to meet briefly and share ideas. Once we have definite plans, the work may begin.

  For the next couple of hours, the teams met together to discuss the nuts and bolts of the project. A rough draft emerged, giving everyone a place to start and plenty to do. Before finishing for the day, Perry and Thriss conferred together on the far side of the room.

  Our people work remarkably well together, Captain. We are most impressed with human creativity and resourcefulness. I am confident we will succeed.

  “I share your optimism, Governor. The opportunities for learning and growth in this endeavor will not only enrich our peoples, but make us both stronger.”

  Perry paused before asking the next question.

  “Do you have any current needs which require our assistance?”

  I thank you for asking, Captain. We have two related concerns which are somewhat pressing. Time is critical for us, you see, as our life cycle is considerably shorter than your own. The Council members, myself included, were quite advanced by the time we entered stasis. Even if this were not an issue, our present food stores are insufficient to sustain us through a lengthy project. If no solution is found, we will be forced to return to stasis and interact with you through a virtual interface.

  “Forgive me, Governor, I did not realize you were working under such restrictions. We have made amazing progress on our journey with life extension and the elimination of common ailments. I will assign Dr. Crawford and his staff to look at your genome and see if we can offer your people something similar. We also have extensive food production capacity on board Expedition. With councilor Thataar’s assistance, we can place a dedicated growth bay at your disposal.”

  This is most generous, Captain. Eliminating those two concerns will enable us to focus our energy on the issues at hand. Might I suggest you assign Mosis as a liaison between our peoples? The environmental conditions here would not be a hindrance for him, nor would he need food or rest periods. We would provide him with a room suited to his needs, proper communications equipment, and a specialized relay to exchange data with his shipboard self. If necessary, we can modify this room to provide more comfortable working conditions for your staff when they are on Khrusos.

  “An excellent idea, Governor. I will discuss it with him when we return to the ship. At some point, I would be delighted to give you a tour of Expedition and introduce you to more of our people. For now, I think we have accomplished enough for one day. I will have Communications establish a dedicated link between us, which should enable an easier exchange of information. Please contact me at any time – I am at your service.”

  The teams were finally pried apart and farewells exchanged. Some of Perry’s staff were already on a first name basis with the Vingah, which bode well for good working relationships. Governor Thriss escorted Perry and his staff back to the waiting shuttle for a final farewell. On the return trip, the crew compartment was awash with excited discussion, people eager to get the ball rolling. Perry shared the details of his private conversation with Thriss to Commanders Crawford and Bennett. Both were instructed to make the Governor’s needs a top priority, and ordered to keep him abreast of any developments.

  The amount of work facing Expedition’s crew was almost mind boggling, but the promised rewards of success should be enough to keep spirits high. After they disembarked, Perry pulled Mosis aside and presented him with the Governor’s suggestion. Though willing to serve wherever needed, it was clear Mosis was looking forward to more human interaction with his friends and colleagues. Perry assured him it was only a temporary posting, and he would be aboard at least one or two days a week.

  “I appreciate your flexibility, Mosis, and I recognize the personal sacrifice. Before we send you down to the planet, I want you to spend some time getting settled in your quarters and become familiar with your new situation. You have been thrust into the middle of this whole affair right from the start, and I will ask nothing further of you right now. Enjoy a little time off, my friend.”

  With a wide grin, Mosis went on about his business while Perry retired to his private dining room for a quiet meal and a chance to collect his thoughts.

  ####

  …Grazill, shortly after Expedition’s arrival at Khrusos…

  It took nearly three romms before Gotogg’s plan could be fully implemented, and Premier Gornott was forced to banish him to his ship. It was the only way to prevent the aggressive Overlord from taking out his frustration on the research team, whom he threatened with dismemberment, among other things. While the hardware was being built and tested, Gotogg selected a team of Underlords who would assist him in carrying out the mission. They were fully aware of the stakes, and of Gotogg’s threats, which created a highly motivated group. For cycles they mercilessly drilled until their reaction times were nothing short of instantaneous. Even if Gotogg dropped dead, every Underlord in the project could complete the mission without him.

  When the day finally arrived, the ships assembled at the assigned coordinates and took their positions. The amplifier had not been incorporated into one of the ships, but was a separate construction. The last thing they wanted, after all, was for the alien device to appear inside one of their own ships! It was released from the cargo bay and gently tractored into place. There were four vessels, including Gotogg’s, which now surrounded the amplifier.

  There was no way of knowing how long it might take to attract one of the alien devices, so the real problem was maintaining a high level of vigilance over a long period of time. Every manned station on all four ships had a primary and a backup Underlord, both fully trained and tested. They may have only one chance to succeed, and every precaution was taken to maximize that chance. All ships signaled their readiness, and at Gotogg’s command, the amplifier was activated for the first time. The receivers on each ship were attuned to one thing only, and the tolls passed slowly as they watched and waited.

  ####

  Exiting fold space, the buoy’s sensors were alerted to the faint whisper of a transmission. It paused to consider the strange signal and then searched its programming for a proper response. This possibility was not in the memory bank, and therefore had no listed response, yet the buoy believed it could not be ignored. The signal was primarily the sub-space electronic signature given off by every buoy when it emerges from fold space. It also contained the specific identifier of a buoy which been presumably lost long ago.

  The memory banks identified the system it was investigating before going silent, and it matched the source of the recent transmission. Perhaps it was damaged in some way and could not reenter fold space. This would explain both its long absence and the strange composition of its message. It would take only moments to investigate, and there was nothing in its programming to prevent it from doing so. The proper coordinates were selected, and a flash of golden light opened an entry point in fold space…

  ####

  Nearly a full sonn passed with no response. Some of the officers were growing fatigued, finding it difficult to remain focused for so long. Gotogg was about to order the backup officers to change places with their primaries when the alarm sounded. There was no time to issue orders, or even think, so the crews simply responded as trained. The alien device was going to emerge exactly where Gotogg needed it to be! The very moment it appeared in Grazill space, the dampening field was engaged with full power.

  As the device lost power and began to drift, Gotogg’s ship moved up alongside, opened the docking bay and fired a grappling web. It was towed on board and secured as quickly as possible. The research team was standing by, and descended upon it in a race to disconnect the power source before the unit could restart. Several tolls passed in a frenzy of activity, overseen by Gotogg himself, until at last the team erupted in a chorus of grunts and growls. They had done it.

  ####

  Capturing the device was only the beginning, and many cycles passed as the team studied the object in de
tail. The first step was to isolate the artificial intelligence from the buoy controls. The AI proved to be particularly uncooperative, and as soon as they understood how it worked, deleted its original programming.

  Meanwhile, they discovered how powerful and versatile the Vingah device really was. Not only was it capable of almost instantaneous travel, but it was equipped with powerful shields, scanners and weapons which would eventually make the Lydokk masters of the galaxy. Gotogg’s victory further cemented his position of power and authority, and after he plundered Khrusos, he planned to take the Premiership as well.

  Once the major components were reverse engineered, it was a straightforward process to build more. Gotogg ordered the construction of their own version of the buoy as the first priority. His intention was to send it off to Khrusos to gather information and keep an eye on their prize until his fleet could be refitted with the new technology.

  When the new buoy was complete, Gotogg instructed the AI to perform a series of micro jumps in and around the Khrusos system. By obtaining quick snapshots, he would hopefully avoid any entanglements with the Vingah Sentinels in orbit around Khrusos. If they detected Gotogg’s buoy, it might be destroyed or even tracked back to Grazill, and Gotogg had no interest in such complications. The buoy was sent off without further delay while the Overlord waited impatiently aboard his vessel.