Prelude to Retribution

Chapter Four: The Reaper Cometh

"My apologies for the continued delays, Admiral Prolov," the holographic image of Supreme Fleet Admiral Joloa said. "Situations have arisen that demanded my attention."

Joloa was a woman of average height and build with neatly styled short white hair. Her sharp features, accented by her dark eyes, always exuded the image of a strong military commander. She worked hard to gain her promotions, eventually becoming the first woman to rise to command the entire Maynerian Dynasty Fleet as Supreme Fleet Admiral. She was a well-respected and gifted military leader that Prolov would follow to hell and back a billion times over, even blindfolded with his arms tied behind his back.

Prolov nodded as he remained in his military stance. "I understand, Admiral. Shall I present my reports on the status of Project Reaper?"

Joloa offered a curious gaze. "In a moment. We have another matter of importance to discuss beforehand."

In the silence that followed, a lump rose within Prolov's throat. A series of thoughts flowed through his mind like a field of air racers on the salt flats of Aeroon III.

What will her orders be concerning Tyaal and Taleinia? Prolov pondered while awaiting Joloa to continue. And will I have to compromise my friendship with Tyaal to carry them out?

Joloa finally said, "An anomaly has been detected with our ranks, and you are tasked to monitor it in case it becomes necessary to accelerate the refit of your vessels, Admiral."

Prolov breathed a sigh of relief. "Do we have any additional information on the anomaly, ma'am?"

Joloa rubbed her chin, keeping her eyes on her subordinate officer. "The battlecruiser Ryche came under attack forty-eight hours ago. It was able to survive with minimum damage and casualties. However, its opponents' identity is somewhat surprising." She paused and studied information on a data pad. "According to Captain Rullen's report, the Ryche was assaulted by a blend of Maynerian and Amosian forces. Maynerians led the attack."

"We have rogues within our ranks?" Prolov enquired.

"Judging from the reports, it would appear so, Admiral Prolov," Joloa replied calmly. "And if the pending investigation corroborates that theory, then the objectives of Project Reaper will be altered accordingly. Tell me, what is the project's status?"

Prolov remained rigid in his stance. "Fleet Captain Aveen oversees preparation operations for Battle Group One in the shipyards in the Hadeen System. At last report, the battlecruisers Amaranth, Corrin, Zephyr, and Gladius will be ready as scheduled."

Joloa nodded. "I see. And what of Battle Group Two?"

"At last report, ma'am, Captain Jensen has completed the initial phase on the Teiryan in the shipyards in the Rakhaan System," Prolov said firmly. "The Tenebris, Sydonus, and Impetus will also be completed on schedule."

Joloa offered a smile. "Excellent, Admiral Prolov. And what of Phase Two of Project Reaper? Have you secured a location for its construction and testing phases?"

"We are still scouting locations," Prolov answered. "I am confident a suitable one will present itself soon."

Joloa remained silent for a few moments, seemingly gathering her thoughts. Prolov watched his commanding officer intently while she shifted her position and looked directly at him.

"Admiral Prolov, there are rather intriguing rumors circulating about your friend, Lieutenant Colonel Tyaal Veriss," she said calmly, pausing to study Prolov's expression before continuing. "I understand he has found a new friend in Captain Taleinia Marisala."