The Utopia: a Starfleet Novel

Chapter 5: Captain Talox Leighton

The dashing Captain Talox gripped the sides of his custom made chair, shortish, coppery-red hair sticking to his forehead as another blast from the oncoming ship hit the hull plating. "Fire at will Mr. Bardimander. Ms. Beacon, attack pattern Alto four."

The crew followed his orders with military precision, attacking with all the force and perfection that some can only dream of achieving.

"Sir, the enemy ship is hailing us." Calison Beacon suddenly spoke.

"On screen Ms. Beacon."

A sharp face appeared on the large screen, her green-gray skin contrasting with the silver-white of her hair and the sapphire blue of her thickly lashed eyes. "You," she hissed, "are in our territory."

Giving a questioning look towards his science officer, Talox calmly replied, "We were not aware this was your territory. We are humans from the planet Earth. So far we have not heard of you. Would your care to help clear up this error on our part?"

"We are the Kamardians. This is our territory for quite a few lightyears and don't take lightly to intruders!" This clearly aggressive female hissed.

Throwing a look at his tactical officer, Talox smoothly replied, "Would you consider a trade of sorts? We are curious about you and I'm sure we could both benefit from this exchange. I would like to propose and extend an invitation to you and your crew to come and see our vessel."

Glancing at her own first in command, the Kamardian captain smoothly replied, "I am Lucy Blackfire, Captain of the vessel Voctra. On behalf of me and my crew, I would like to accept your offer and extend the same invitation of you and your crew. We will prepare to come visit you and make preparations for your arrival. We will contact you as soon as possible."

"See you then," the Captain replied smoothly and nodded to his communications officer to end the transmission.

Leaning back in his chair, the captain smiled. "Captain," Adelaide asked; slightly concerned, "May I ask what is so humorous?"

Sighing, Talox replied, "They are playing games with us. We are like flies trapped in a spider's web. Soon they will pounce. That and that Female's thoughts on my appearance where very.....private and intriguing."

Talox stood, leaving his bridge officers to mull over his words; and soundlessly walked into his ready room.