chapter one

In the year 2024, a catastrophic alien invasion shook the Earth to its core. Many countries were decimated after battling relentlessly for a decade against advanced beings from beyond our world. These formidable aliens were on the brink of annihilating humanity until a startling revelation came to light—they were not living creatures, but intricate robots. The sudden malfunctioning of these robots brought a halt to the devastating conflict, which came to be known as the First Impact.

Amidst the ruins left by the extraterrestrial war, mankind found itself at the threshold of a new era—interstellar travel. By 2040, humanity had achieved a monumental milestone by establishing contact with a peaceful species called the Evories, who resided outside the domain of the invading aliens.

The encounter with the Evories led to an unexpected invitation—humanity was summoned to participate in the High Council of the Planetary Alliance, a gathering of various races and civilizations from beyond Earth. As humans convened with alien delegates, a startling realization dawned upon them—among the myriad planets and species in the cosmos, Earth had been a mere pawn in a grand cosmic scheme. It became apparent that any future threat to Earth would result in unimaginable consequences for all involved.

To secure their survival and assert their presence on the cosmic stage, the human race set forth two pivotal objectives. Firstly, to attain a seat on the prestigious Council and receive protection from potential invaders, humanity was tasked with a monumental endeavor that spanned five decades. Secondly, to fortify their defenses, mankind embarked on the controversial path of enhancing their military capabilities.

Amidst concerns and apprehensions, humans ventured into uncharted territory by creating their own robotic forces. These new constructs, fashioned using the technology salvaged from the remnants of the alien invaders, bore the name "First Generation." As the construction of these robots reached completion in 2042, a sense of unease permeated society. The specter of a potential uprising loomed large, with fears rampant that the very machines designed to ensure humanity's safety could one day turn against their creators.

...

THE CITADEL

In the futuristic world of Citadel, formerly known as New York, a city once destroyed during the First Impact has risen from the ashes stronger than ever. Thanks to remarkable technological advancements, the city now boasts incredible infrastructure and cutting-edge developments that place it at the forefront of progress.

At the heart of this vibrant city lies the headquarters of the Earth Alliance, a powerful organization responsible for overseeing interstellar travel and safeguarding the world's defense. Leading the charge is General Iron Smith, a 51-year-old war veteran who has been entrusted with the crucial task of protecting Earth from external threats.

Inside a sleek, white-colored office devoid of any personal touches, General Smith diligently works on reports that detail the ongoing missions and strategies of the Earth Alliance. With a steely gaze and a focused demeanor, he pours over documents that outline the preparations for a mission of utmost importance.

As the general concentrates on his tasks, Dr. Rose Howell, the lead engineer responsible for creating the revolutionary First Generation technology, stands before him. With a sense of urgency hanging in the air, General Smith breaks the silence, emphasizing the gravity of the impending mission.

"I don't need to tell you how important this mission is," General Smith asserts, his voice tinged with a sense of determination. "Humanity's survival hinges on the success of our endeavors."

Dr. Howell, known for her pragmatic approach and quick wit, responds in a more lighthearted manner, attempting to alleviate the tension in the room. "You need to chill out," she remarks, a playful smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "You might give yourself a heart attack with all this seriousness."

The general's stern expression softens momentarily at the doctor's remark, a hint of a smile flickering across his features. Dr. Howell, noticing the shift in mood, raises her hands in a gesture of surrender, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

"In all seriousness, the First Generation is primed and ready for deployment," Dr. Howell states with unwavering confidence, her tone conveying both expertise and assurance.

General Smith, his gaze drifting towards the expansive window that offers a view of the bustling city below, watches as children play in the streets, oblivious to the weighty responsibilities that rest on the shoulders of the Earth Alliance.

"We must protect humanity at all costs," the general declares, his voice resonating with determination. As he gazes upon the carefree innocence of the children outside, a sense of duty and commitment drives him to redouble his efforts in ensuring the safety and prosperity of the world they inhabit.

...

In the vastness of space, as the stars glittered with beauty, a mysterious black hole suddenly appeared. From its dark void emerged a massive spaceship, its hull damaged and windows shattered, tainted with what appeared to be blood. Slowly, the vessel approached the planet Viriona, looming ominously in the sky.

As the spaceship entered Viriona's orbit, the planet's command center sprung into action, attempting to establish communication with the unknown vessel. "You are entering the orbit of Viriona. State your business or your vessel will be shot down," the repeated warnings echoed through the communication channel five times.

Despite the repeated warnings, the enigmatic spaceship continued its trajectory towards the planet, ignoring the command center's demands. Fearing the unknown threat, the command center issued the final warning before deciding to take action. The order was given, and the vessel was fired upon, causing it to spiral out of control and crash-land on Viriona's surface, sending shockwaves throughout the planet.

The soldiers stationed on Viriona were immediately deployed to investigate the crash site. They cautiously approached the damaged spacecraft, its exterior marred by the intensity of the impact. With trepidation, they boarded the vessel, their footsteps echoing in the eerily silent corridors. What they discovered inside was beyond their worst nightmares - a horrific scene of carnage greeted them, with bodies mutilated beyond recognition strewn across the ship.

One of the soldiers couldn't contain his revulsion at the gruesome sight before him. "My god," he whispered, trying to hold back the urge to vomit. The leader of the squad quickly contacted the command center to report their findings. "There appears to be no survivors on board this vessel. It seems a fierce battle has taken place here," the leader grimly informed the authorities.

Pressing forward, the soldiers meticulously searched the ship, their senses on high alert. Every creak of the damaged vessel and every drop of water on the floor seemed to amplify in the tense atmosphere. After fifteen nerve-wracking minutes of exploration, they stumbled upon a chilling sight - a creature, about five feet tall, feeding on one of the mutilated corpses. Reacting swiftly, the soldiers raised their weapons, preparing to eliminate the seemingly hostile being.

Suddenly, growls reverberated from all sides of the vessel, sending shivers down the soldiers' spines.