789 Chapter 789 Master of the Fleet
The standoff at the outpost presented a new conundrum for Aldred and his command. The Super Soldiers' spacecraft, hovering ominously yet silently near the outpost, became a symbol of the unknown intentions that puzzled the Celestial Platoon. Despite repeated attempts by the local officers to establish communication, the air remained thick with unanswered calls, heightening the tension among the ranks.
Determined to break the impasse, Aldred decided to take a more direct approach. Accompanied by a small entourage of his most trusted advisors, he boarded a shuttle, making his way towards the silent spacecraft. The decision was not taken lightly, but Aldred knew the importance of understanding the Super Soldiers' motives firsthand. New novel chapters are published on
As they approached, Aldred activated the shuttle's external communication system. "This is Commander Aldred of the Celestial Platoon," he announced, his voice laced with a respectful firmness, designed to bridge the gap between potential allies or foes. "We seek a peaceful resolution and wish to understand your presence in our territory."
The silence that followed felt like an eternity. The crew aboard Aldred's shuttle exchanged anxious glances, unsure of what to expect. Then, without warning, the hull of the Super Soldiers' spacecraft began to shift, revealing an opening. It was a clear invitation, yet one that carried with it a myriad of risks and uncertainties.
Aldred nodded to his team, a silent signal of his decision to accept the invitation. "Stay here and maintain an open channel," he instructed, his tone leaving no room for debate. "If you do not hear from me within the hour, initiate evacuation protocols and alert the Platoon."
With a determined stride, Aldred disembarked the shuttle, crossing the threshold into the Super Soldiers' vessel.
The interior was stark, illuminated by a cold, ambient light that did little to soften the militaristic efficiency of its design. A corridor stretched out before him, leading to a central chamber where he presumed the meeting would take place.
As he walked, Aldred prepared himself mentally for the encounter ahead. His mind raced through possible scenarios, strategies, and responses.
The importance of this meeting transcended personal risk; it was a pivotal moment that could define the future relationship between the Celestial Platoon and the Super Soldiers of the Emperor.
Upon entering the chamber, Aldred found himself face to face with a figure clad in the unmistakable armor of the Super Soldiers. The insignia of the iron eagle was prominently displayed, a silent testament to their allegiance and purpose.
Aldred's entrance into the chamber was met with a silence that held the weight of galaxies.
The Super Soldier before him, an imposing figure shrouded in armor that bore the emblem of an iron eagle, regarded him with a scrutiny that could pierce through the facades of the most seasoned warriors.
"You stand in the domain of the Emperor's chosen," the Super Soldier announced, his voice echoing with a resonant authority that filled the chamber. His chin lifted, his tone imbued with a command that bespoke his superiority. Around them, the air thickened as other Super Soldiers, previously motionless statues in the periphery, suddenly exuded an aura so potent it seemed to warp the very fabric of the space they occupied.
"Indeed," the Master confirmed. "An alliance, borne of necessity. Our scouts have observed the encroaching darkness, and our seers have confirmed its malevolent intent. The Emperor believes that together, our forces can stand against this threat."
"And what about the provocation? You attacked us."
"I harm not a single hair except for old bricks and stones. I did it to make you come to me."
"How would you expect me to refuse the call of a Master of the Fleet."
"You won't refuse my summon, but tou might refuse my offer."
"You offer an alliance, friendship. No reason to refuse the goodwill of a powerful entity."
The Master of the Fleet laughed. "Civilians don't usually want to mingle with us. We have authorities and power far more than they can imagine. If I ordered an entire planet to be massacred to keep a secret from being leaked, my soldiers will do so and no authority will stop me."
"I am not a mere civilians."
"Ah yes, you regard yourself as a protector. A hero of some sort. I always heard you say something about protecting the galaxy, becoming the beacon of hope and whatnot in your speeches. I hope you don't believe those words yourself."
"In order to convince others of your lie, you need to convince yourself first."
"Well, let me tell you that don't work on me. Tell me. Who are you. Suddenly, appearing out of nowhere and in three years your name and influence spread across this region."
The Master pulled out a gun off his holster and aimed at Aldred's head. "Are you a demon in human skin? Biding your time for our trust and then stab us in the back. Is this what you plan to do?"
Aldred frowned and then smiled. "I heard you have the authority to shoot first then ask question later. If you are so sure of your accusation, you would have shoot. But seems like there is something else."
A smile appeared on the Master's face. "No wonder you can grow this big in such a short time."