The Impossible Future: Complete set by Frank Kennedy (mini ebook reader .txt) 📕

“The bulk of our operations have centered on these twelve worlds,” Kane said, throwing away the larger group of planets to emphasize the movement’s stomping grounds. “Any world where Brother James has cast his miracles or destroyed our enemies; any world where we have encouraged violent insurrection; any world where we have raided or where have we used Berserkers. On these twelve, they redeployed no one.

“We have received a variety of reports in recent days suggesting these twelve are increasing suborbital patrols and installing quick-strike bases along the perimeter of our incursions. It is my assessment, supported by our command officers and Admiral Valentin, that we suspend and reevaluate all further missions scheduled for these colonies. Thank you.”

James leaned back, much too casual for Valentin. He seemed neither impressed nor concerned, which did not particularly surprise his brother. In fact, James threw open the commentary to others. Nothing of consequence emerged, with no one other than Ulrich Rahm seeming to agree with the idea of a suspension. No one wanted to voice a clear opinion on the possibility James might disagree. That’s what Valentin hated about these strategy sessions – the hybrids held the clear majority and always voted in unison.

James spoke. “Major Kane, highlight Tamarind for me.” The XO brought the planet forward. Tamarind was one of the most beautiful colonies when viewed from orbit. Mostly blue, like finely cut gems, but for long striations of red flashes from the dramatic Stratospheric Storm Cycle over the eastern continents.

“I am returning there tomorrow to keep my promise to the Chinese,” James said. “They’re a critical part of our plans.”

Valentin jumped in. “I was going to speak with you about this, brother. The more we have analyzed Tamarind, the more we believe a return trip could be disastrous. We will not be able to provide an appropriate level of security given our other, more pressing military needs.”

James flexed an eyebrow. “More pressing? Based on whose judgment? Yours, brother? I alone know how we’ll defeat the Collectorate. You might be ordering the missions, but everything we do is my design. And my design says Tamarind plays an important role.”

Valentin held his chin high. “Tamarind plays one role, brother. Our victory does not hinge on any one colony.”

“But it does. Tamarind will play a crucial role after we expel the Chancellory. When Rayna and I visited ten days ago, I showed my light to the Mongol tribes, and Rayna destroyed a Guard facility reviled by both Mongols and Chinese. I promised the Chinese I would bring the same miracles to them on my next visit. If I don’t return, they will not trust Salvation. The Mongols and Chinese have been rivals for centuries. The Guard kept them under control. I will unify them as their common god.”

The hybrids, including Ulrich, applauded. James’s sons followed.

“I’ll not discuss godly issues here,” Valentin said. “My concern is ensuring military security. How do you know Tamarind will be important to us after we win?”

James stroked his beard. “I am the first day and the last day, brother. I don’t need to explain myself.”

“And if I said tomorrow might be your last day?”

“I would say you’re a lousy Admiral, and you’d best change your strategy to make sure I’m still alive when my sons become men.”

Valentin threw off a snarky laugh. “If we win this war, brother, will I receive even an ounce of credit?” Before any response: “No. Strike that question. I’ll leave it to history. Listen, James, we cannot risk losing you when we are this close to our final push. Major Kane’s report makes clear that the Admiralty has not forgotten us, despite the war on Earth.

“Special Services Division has undoubtedly studied our historical patterns and been preparing countermeasures. We have had a series of close calls in recent weeks, from Brahma to New Caledonia. Our accelerated timeline has been pushing us to our limits. We are one mistake away from revealing our hand. We have to delay Tamarind.”

He thought James would show the first hint of concern. Perhaps a nudge toward logic and reason. Valentin knew better.

“I say no delays,” James said, leaning back. “Do I have a second?”

Rayna and two pregnant hybrids raised their hands at once.

“Done and done.” James grinned. “I think a security configuration similar to Brahma should work. Make it happen, Admiral.”

Valentin stared in silence. The wave of disbelief fragmented his anger. He wondered. Is this it? Is this what you’ve waited for, James? The moment where it’s no longer a partnership?

Major Kane leaned in and whispered. “I’ll see to the details at once, Admiral. I’ll have updated reassignments within the hour.”

“What’s that, Major?” James said, leaning forward.

Valentin responded. “You’ll have a new security configuration.”

“Perfect.” He pointed to the holowindow. “Major, I’ve been wondering about something. You listed thirty-eight colonies in your report, but there are thirty-nine. Why the oversight?”

Kane stood. “Yes, Brother James. I did not include Hiebimini in the final report since it is uninhabited and has no strategic value.”

“Really? Hmm. That’s interesting. Does the Guard still maintain a blockade outside the system’s Nexus point?”

“As of our last survey several months ago. No peacekeeper battalions. Only a few quick-strike units to operate from Scramjets in the event of an incursion.”

“Right. And the Guard has maintained the blockade for twenty-seven standard years. Correct?”

“Yes, Brother James.”

“And no one has broken the blockade or landed on Hiebimini since then?”

“None, Brother James.”

James held tongue in cheek as he shared a knowing wink with Sister Rayna.

“This is what the Guard wants everyone to believe. The Fall of the Chancellory in 5320 wasn’t humiliating enough, so they cleansed Hiebimini by saying the death of brontinium would end the planet. After evacuating everyone by 5330, they closed off the system because they didn’t want their lie to be exposed.”

Valentin didn’t understand