4

[Vega star system, Sector 2828; Star 732]

—Deep Space: X'Hal's Belt

Six days have passed from an Earth perspective since I've been traveling through the Vega Sector with Kyra'lynn's crew and the other Tamaranians. They explained the situation they were in more thoroughly.

Tamaran has recently undergone a coup d'état. The heir princess of Tamaran, Komand'r, betrayed her sister, Princess Koriander, handing her over to the Citadel. However, fate was not favorable to Blackfire, who ended up being captured by the Psions along with Koriander. Both underwent experiments and modifications at the hands of these mad scientists.

After several twists and turns, Princess Koriander disappeared without a trace across the cosmos, while Komand'r, with a new set of abilities never seen by her people, imprisoned her own parents and took control of the planet. She formed a sinister alliance with the Citadel, betraying the coalition of planets in the Vega Sector that opposed the Citadel and other criminal groups in the region.

Faced with this scenario of betrayal and chaos, a rebel force emerged, led by the supreme general of Tamaran, Thal'rak. Thal'rak and his followers are trying to reorganize their forces to save the alliance of planets and prevent the Citadel's devastating attacks.

It's crazy to think that at this very moment, various small-scale battles are taking place in space. The ship we are on was part of a fleet that separated from the rest during a clash with the Gordonians, who were the main combat force of the Citadel.

"Kyra'lynn said it would take a few minutes for us to meet up with the rest of the fleet, which should be regrouping near the eastern side of the star belt they named in honor of the most revered Goddess of the Sector," I think to myself as I look in the mirror.

I've cut my hair, keeping my mohawk—I wouldn't part with it until the day I die. However, the beard is bothersome. My eyes have gained a red gleam.

*Zzzsss!*

My laser beams were reflected in the mirror, hitting my jaw, and gradually, my facial hair began to fall.

"I can't complain too much about my species, but I wish there was a less... strange way for us to shave," I think to myself as I look at the result.

My face was once again free of any hair, leaving my strong chin exposed, along with the rest of my face. To be honest, I looked like a tough purple elf.

"Are you done there?! Can we see General Thal'rak's ship now?"

"I'm done!" I shout back, giving one last look at my face in the mirror. I was satisfied with the result. I leave the bathroom and quickly head to the bridge, where Kyra'lynn and the rest of the crew were already gathered.

Upon arriving at the bridge, I was immediately drawn to the impressive sight unfolding before us. Part of the rebel fleet was strategically positioned in formation, ready for any confrontation. Ships of different sizes and shapes floated in the black space, their lights blinking in coordinated patterns. The main ship, where General Thal'rak was, dominated the scene. Its presence was unmistakable and majestic.

The main ship, named the "Tamaran Bastion," was colossal in proportion. Its diameter easily surpassed hundreds of thousands of kilometers, practically a small moon, it was a floating fortress. Its surfaces were covered by a complex network of metal panels and antennas, extending like protective spikes. Artillery towers were positioned at regular intervals, ready to repel any attack.

In the center of the ship, a huge dome stood out, shining with an intense bluish light. This was where the central command was located, with panoramic 360-degree views of the surrounding space. The internal structure of the dome allowed General Thal'rak and his officers to have a clear and continuous view of all operations and battles occurring around them.

"I never tire of seeing this," said Kyra'lynn, with a gleam of pride in her eyes as she watched the mothership. "She is our hope. Our Bastion."

"It's truly impressive," I replied. At that moment, I couldn't help but remember the old Imperial Guard ship; they were similar in size after all.

The ship we were on began to maneuver gently toward the "Tamaran Bastion." The lights of our ship blinked in a greeting, and soon we received a similar response from the main ship. We were about to enter the heart of the resistance, General Thal'rak's operations base.

"Prepare for docking," announced Kyra'lynn. The crew began to execute the orders.

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

— Bastion of Tamaran:

After a few minutes of precise maneuvers, our ship finally docked with the gigantic structure of the Bastion. When the characteristic sound of pressurization echoed through the hull, indicating that the connection was secure, Kyra'lynn, her crew, and I stood up and headed to the disembarkation compartment.

The doors opened with a soft hiss, revealing a large platform of gleaming metal. We stepped onto the Bastion with determination. The hangar was immense, housing several smaller ships, each bearing marks of recent battles. Tamaranians and allies of various species moved quickly.

"General Thal'rak is waiting in the command room," said Kyra'lynn as we walked through the hangar. I observed everything around me attentively. The walls were lined with technological panels, pulsing with intermittent lights, indicating the constant activity within the ship.

They walked to the door of the command bridge, which opened, revealing the entire area. It was a vast space, filled with holographic screens displaying star maps, tactical reports, and real-time intergalactic communications. In the center of the room, an imposing swivel chair stood empty, awaiting the presence of General Thal'rak. Around it, Tamaranian officers and those of other races operated consoles and discussed strategies.

Kyra'lynn advanced with determination, followed by me. General Thal'rak was an imposing Tamaranian, standing two meters tall with golden muscles, dreadlocks cascading down his back, and a beard reaching his chest. He waited, standing with a serious expression, while observing the holomaps. He turned as Kyra'lynn approached and greeted her with a nod.

"Kyra'lynn, you've finally arrived. We have much to discuss," said the general, his voice resonating in the command room.

"Happy to be back, sir," Kyra'lynn responded with a smile.

"But I can't help but notice you brought a stranger onto my ship," Thal'rak said, looking at me.

I took this as my cue to introduce myself.

"My name is Kallark, it's a pleasure to meet you." I extended my hand for a civilized handshake.

"Hahaha!!" He laughed and grasped my arm in a strong grip.

'He's strong, interesting, his physical stature definitely sets him apart from the others,' I thought, feeling the grip, but it was nothing extraordinary compared to other adversaries I had faced.

"It's a pleasure, Kallark. Kyra'lynn informed me of your deeds when you two met. A warrior like you is very useful these days," he said, his expression growing somber.

"Kyra'lynn, Kallark, please follow me." Thal'rak led them to the holomaps, where images of the latest skirmishes unfolded before them. "Our losses have been significant. Many of our assault ships have been shot down in battles against the enemy forces of the Citadel and the men of the now Queen Komand'r."

He manipulated the holographic controls, highlighting the critical points of the battles. "So far, we have managed to keep our Tamaranian forces strong, but the siege is imminent. The enemy forces are organizing for a large-scale attack. We need to act quickly to reinforce our defenses and establish counterattack strategies."

Kyra'lynn nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "Understood, General. We are ready to help in any capacity that is needed," she said with determination.

Thal'rak looked at me, evaluating me for a moment.

"And you, young man? I can't ask you to get involved in a conflict that isn't yours, but your help would be appreciated, especially now," Thal'rak said.

"What do you mean?" I asked, confused.

He sighed.

"The Omega Men were captured in an ambush orchestrated by Queen Komand'r. She manipulated them, forcing the alliance worlds into a stalemate. We need all possible allies to turn the tide in our favor," Thal'rak explained, his serious expression reflecting the gravity of the situation.

'Well, that changes things a bit,' I thought with a grave expression.