The dim glow of the ship's ambient lighting cast soft shadows across the quarters as Thomas stirred in his sleep. The bed was low-profile, designed to accommodate the feline physiology of M'Sara and T'Liana, with a smart foam mattress that adjusted to their movements. The three of them had fallen asleep tangled together, limbs intertwined in a way that showed just how close they were.
Thomas's nightmare began innocently enough—a memory of his childhood, playing in the backyard with his parents. But as the dream progressed, it twisted into something darker. He was eleven years old again, sitting in the back seat of his family car. The green light stretched on forever, and he could feel the tension in the air as his father gripped the steering wheel tightly. Then, without warning, a blinding flash of light and the sickening crunch of metal filled the air. Thomas's mother was gone, her life snuffed out in an instant. His father screamed his name as the world around them crumbled.
With a sudden jerk, Thomas sat up, his hands clutching at the mattress as if he could anchor himself to reality. The movement jostled T'Liana, whose foot had been resting against his thigh. She stirred, her dark orange tail flicking in alarm as she opened her eyes. M'Sara was already awake, her cobalt gaze fixed on Thomas with concern.
"Thomas!" M'Sara said urgently, crawling into his lap and wrapping her arms around him. Her thick, lush chest fur brushed against his skin, grounding him slightly. "What's wrong? What happened?"
T'Liana sat up as well, her golden eyes wide with worry. She reached out a hand-paw to touch Thomas's shoulder, her tail twitching nervously behind her.
"It was the car accident," Thomas whispered, his voice trembling. "I keep reliving it. My biological mother… she died in that crash. I can't stop seeing her face."
M'Sara translated quickly into Katzen for T'Liana, who nodded solemnly. The Lehpparr's tail lowered slightly, a sign of empathy. She leaned closer to Thomas, her hand-paw resting on his back as if to offer silent support.
"It's okay," M'Sara said softly, running her fingers through his short, cropped hair. "You're safe now. We're here for you."
Thomas took a shaky breath, his chest heaving as he tried to calm himself. The nightmare felt so real, the fear and grief overwhelming him once again. But with M'Sara in his arms and T'Liana by his side, he began to feel the edges of the panic recede.
"It's just… it feels like she's gone again," Thomas said, his voice breaking slightly. "Like I can't ever get that moment back."
M'Sara tightened her hold on him, her tail brushing against his arm in a comforting gesture. T'Liana placed her other hand-paw on his shoulder, her expression softening as she looked at him, her ears lowered slightly.
"Your mother's memory lives on," M'Sara said, her tone gentle. "She would have been so proud of you, Thomas. You've become someone amazing because of her."
T'Liana nodded in agreement, her tail flicking once to emphasize the point. She leaned closer, her hand-paw moving in slow, reassuring circles on his back.
"It's hard," T'Liana said, her voice low and soothing. "But you are not alone. We are here with you."
Thomas closed his eyes, letting their words wash over him. The warmth of M'Sara's fur against his skin and the steady presence of T'Liana beside him helped ground him in reality. Slowly, the tremors in his body subsided.
"Thank you," he murmured, opening his eyes to meet M'Sara's gaze. "Both of you."
M'Sara tilted her ears slightly, a sign of affection, and nuzzled his cheek with her muzzle. T'Liana's tail rose slightly, a flicker of approval in her expression as she stepped back, giving them space.
"Get some rest," T'Liana said, her voice carrying a hint of concern. "We'll be here if you need us."
Thomas nodded, leaning back against the mattress as M'Sara settled into his lap once more. Her hand-paw rested on his chest, her tail wrapping around him in a loose embrace. The ship's hum filled the room, a steady background noise that helped calm his racing thoughts.
"It's okay," M'Sara repeated, her voice laced with warmth. "We're here."
And for the first time since the nightmare began, Thomas felt a flicker of peace settle over him.
The mess hall of the Hegh'ta was a tight, utilitarian space with modern, minimalistic walls. The viewports were covered with armored shutters, leaving the room bathed in the ship's artificial light. Thomas, M'Sara, and T'Liana sat at one of the small tables, their breakfast spread out before them. The air was thick with the scent of coffee and the faint musk of Katzen fur.
Thomas stirred his coffee with a tired sigh, his eyes heavy from lack of sleep. He had been haunted by nightmares again—memories of his mother's death that he thought he had buried long ago. His fingers absently brushed against M'Sara's paw as it rested on the table, seeking comfort in her presence.
M'Sara leaned slightly closer to Thomas, her ears twitching in concern. Her fur was tousled from sleep. She reached out and placed her hand-paw on his leg, her touch warm and reassuring. "You okay?" she asked softly, her voice tinged with worry.
Thomas nodded, forcing a smile. "Yeah, just… not the best night's sleep."
T'Liana, sitting across from them, took a bite of her pancakes. Her ears perked up as she chewed, clearly enjoying the taste. She had never tried pancakes before, and while she was hesitant at first, she quickly grew used to the texture and flavor. "These are good," she said, her voice carrying a strong Katzen accent. "M'Sara always says humans have strange tastes, but I like it."
M'Sara chuckled as Katzen did, with a huffing cough sound, her ears tilting slightly in amusement. "I told you they'd be good. You should try the syrup next time—it's sweet and sticky."
T'Liana nodded, her eyes lighting up at the idea. She had been trying to integrate herself into the pride, learning more about human customs and food. It was a small way to bridge the gap between their species.
The mess hall was quiet aside from the occasional clatter of utensils and the hum of the ship's systems. Other crew members moved past the table, their faces set in focused expressions as they prepared for the upcoming mission. The Hegh'ta was nearing its destination, and everyone knew the stakes were high.
"So," M'Sara said, breaking the silence. "Ready for the full systems check? K'Rell is already breathing down everyone's necks, as you humans say." Her ears flattened slightly, a sign of her annoyance with their gruff bridge officer.
Thomas groaned, running a hand through his hair. "Yeah, I'm looking forward to it. At least we'll be back in sublight soon."
M'Sara gave him a reassuring squeeze on the leg. "We'll get through it together. You've got me, and T'Liana's always has your back."
T'Liana nodded, her ears twitching in agreement. "I'll make sure nothing goes wrong," she said confidently. "I've been double-checking our gear the past few cycles."
The conversation continued as they finished their breakfast, the atmosphere easing slightly with each passing moment. Thomas felt a little more at ease knowing he had M'Sara and T'Liana by his side—two of the most capable and caring individuals he could ask for.
When they were done, T'Liana gave them both warm hugs, something Thomas showed her, before heading out to join the marines in their preparations. Her fur was soft against Thomas's skin, and he couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for her presence.
M'Sara stood as well, her movements fluid and graceful despite her small size. She reached up, having to stand on one foot to reach and rested a hand-paw on Thomas's shoulder, her touch lingering slightly longer than necessary. "Come on," she said with a playful nudge. "Let's get this over with."
Thomas followed her out of the mess hall, her paws echoing softly against the metal deck that could hardly be heard over his boots, as they made their way to the engineering deck. The day was long and filled with challenges ahead, but with M'Sara by his side, Thomas felt ready to face whatever came their way.
Knowledge is Power
The engineering deck of the Hegh'ta was alive with the soft hum of machinery and the occasional flicker of holographic displays. Thomas sat at his console, fingers flying across the control panel as he reviewed the latest diagnostic reports. M'Sara, perched in his lap, leaned against his arm, her large ears twitching slightly as she absorbed the information on the hologram before them.
"Port plasma conduits are clear," M'Sara reported, her voice smooth and melodic. "But there's a slight energy bleed in conduit seven. D'Zor flagged it as a faulty regulator." Her tail gave a slow swish, indicating her focused attention.
Thomas nodded, pulling up the schematics. "Good catch. I'll send a work order to L'Thia. She's the best at tracing those fluctuations." He glanced up at M'Sara, catching her gaze. Her ears tilted forward slightly, showing approval, and her tail flicked once in agreement.
M'Sara shifted slightly in his lap, her fur brushing against his shirt. "Conduit seven's regulator is due for replacement anyway," she said. "L'Thia will appreciate the task." Her voice carried a hint of amusement, as if she knew exactly how L'Thia would react to the challenge.
Thomas smiled, though it was more of a mental acknowledgment than anything visible. He brought up the necessary reports, and M'Sara double-checked them with her usual efficiency. Their teamwork was seamless, each anticipating the other's needs without a word.
As they worked, the ship's lights dimmed slightly, casting an eerie glow over the engineering deck. The faint hum of the ship's systems filled the air, punctuated by the occasional chirp of a holographic display as it updated its data.
Finally, K'Rell's voice echoed through the deck. "I'm needed on the bridge. Continue with your checks."
Thomas nodded, his attention returning to the console. M'Sara leaned against his arm scanning another readout.
Her tail gave a quick flick, signaling readiness and determination. Thomas felt a surge of confidence, knowing that with M'Sara by his side, they could handle whatever came next.
Together, they worked through the final checks, their efficiency and bond evident in every action. The engineering deck buzzed with activity as they prepared for the ship's exit from warp, each task completed with precision and care.
As the hours ticked away, Thomas and M'Sara remained focused, their teamwork a testament to their close relationship. The engineering deck was a place of work and camaraderie, where every member of the crew knew their role and fulfilled it with dedication.
The air smelled faintly of ozone and warm metal, the glow of holographic displays casting shifting patterns across the polished deck plating. M'Sara, her melanistic fur a deep shadow against the workstation's cool light, curled into Thomas's lap, her bare toe pads pressing lightly against his calves for balance. Her tail, thick and charcoal-tipped, rested along his thigh, its tip twitching with quiet focus. Thomas's fingers traced the dense, soft fur behind her ear, a gesture that always calmed her, and she leaned into his touch, her cobalt eyes fixed on the warp field readouts.
"Systems nominal," M'Sara murmured, her voice low and steady. "Warp field collapsed cleanly. No residual stress on the hull." She shifted slightly, her rear pressing gently against Thomas's hip, a familiar, grounding contact. "The scouts are reporting in. Tight beam, passive scans only."
Thomas nodded, his thumb brushing the sensitive patch of fur beneath her ear. "Good. Let's see what the bridge sent." He tapped the console, and a cascade of encrypted data streamed onto their shared screen. The bridge's encrypted data stream—marked Priority Alpha—glowed ominously.
Thomas leaned forward, his fingers flying over the holographic interface as he began the decryption process. The screen displayed a complex web of algorithms and encrypted data streams, glowing faintly in the dim lighting. "This is going to take some time," he said, his voice steady but tinged with determination. "They've layered this encryption pretty thick."
M'Sara nodded, her cobalt eyes never leaving the screen. "Triple-layered encryption," she murmured, her voice soft but clear. "And from what I can see, they're using a modified K'tharr cipher. It's not something we encounter every day, but it's doable." She leaned closer to Thomas, her breath warm against his arm as she pointed out specific patterns in the code.
Thomas glanced at her, a small smile tugging at his lips. "You always know where to look," he said, appreciating her expertise. "Focus on the core algorithm," M'Sara whispered, her tail flicking once in encouragement. "I'll handle the cross-referencing."
As they worked, the rest of the engineering team monitored critical systems from their stations. L'Thia and T'Kael watched over the warp field readings, their sharp eyes scanning for any anomalies. D'Zor stood nearby, her hands resting on her hips as she listened intently to the conversation, ready to assist if needed.
The minutes ticked by, and the tension in the room grew palpable. Thomas could feel sweat forming on his brow as he delved deeper into the encryption. "They're not just hiding data," he muttered, his voice low. "They're hiding who they're working for."
M'Sara's ears twitched again, her tail lashing slightly as she worked. "I've found a temporal key," she announced after a few moments. "It's scrambling the data stream with a rotating sequence." Her voice was calm but firm, betraying the intensity of her focus.
Thomas nodded, his fingers moving faster across the interface. "Got it," he said, his breath coming in short bursts as he worked. "This is the Vor'kai signature." The screen flickered briefly before resolving into a detailed system map overlaid with ship icons.
M'Sara's ears perked forward as she studied the data. "They're spread out," she observed, her voice sharp. "Trying to avoid detection, probably. But we've got the advantage of stealth."
"And the scout ships," Thomas added, his eyes narrowing as he zoomed in on a specific cluster of asteroids. "They're reporting in now. Tight beam communications. We're getting a full system scan without raising any alarms."
The data coalesced into a clearer picture, revealing a hidden base within the inner asteroid field. "They're holding captives," Thomas said, his voice hardening as he scrolled through intercepted communications. "Younglings, but not the Katzen colonists'. They have others! They're still waiting on the Katzen younglings."
M'Sara's ears flattened against her head, her tail lashing back and forth in frustration. "More kidnapped younglings!" she exclaimed, her voice tight with anger. "The Katzen younglings are not here yet."
"They're worried," Thomas continued, his eyes locked on the screen. "They have a deadline to meet. They need osmiridium, a platinum group metal. It's used in certain electronics as it's very hard and dense, so it is used mainly for warp drives. They're mining it from the asteroids, it looks like they are rich in platinum group metals."
"So, they're not just pirates," M'Sara said, her voice low but filled with venom. "They're supplying someone. Someone who needs warp drives, a bunch of large warp drives by the looks of it."
The implications were clear, and both Thomas and M'Sara knew they were on the right trail. The data revealed a disturbing truth: the pirates were part of a larger operation, one that required a significant amount of osmiridium to construct advanced warp drives. The kidnapped younglings were likely being used as slave labor to mine the valuable metal.
As they worked together to decrypt the final layers of the encryption, Thomas and M'Sara shared a moment of silent determination. They knew what needed to be done, and they were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. Together, they would uncover the truth and bring an end to the pirates' reign of terror.
Their workstation had been quiet moments ago, but now it buzzed with urgency. M'Sara's toes had gently squeezed Thomas' calves when the comm call came through, a familiar sign of her affection and concern.
"Thomas, M'Sara. Captain Valerius requests your presence in the Ready Room. Bridge crew meeting. Seems your decryption work has… piqued his interest." K'Rell's tone was clipped, devoid of any warmth.
M'Sara's toes squeezed sharply against Thomas's calves, a reflexive reaction to the unexpected summons. It wasn't a bad thing, being called to a meeting, but the abruptness always set her on edge. Thomas instinctively reached out, his hand finding the solid muscle of her thigh, offering a grounding touch.
"Sounds important," he murmured, his voice low enough that only she could hear. "Let's go see what the Captain wants."
M'Sara hopped off Thomas's lap with a fluid grace that always captivated him, landing silently on the deck. Her black paw pads barely made a sound against the metal. She stretched, extending her legs and arching her back, a subtle display of feline composure. Then, she fell into step beside him as they began the walk towards the bridge.
As they walked, L'Thia's dark orange fur caught the ambient light. She paused near a junction, giving Thomas a quick nod and a warmer greeting to M'Sara. "M'Sara," she rumbled, her tail tip twitching with respect. "Thomas."
"Hello, L'Thia," M'Sara replied, her ears tilting slightly in acknowledgment.
The ready room was already filled with crew members when they arrived. Thomas took a seat by the door, and M'Sara settled into his lap, her presence a comforting weight against him. Her toes found his calves once more, and he placed his tablet on the table beside hers as they waited for the meeting to begin.
Captain Valerius stood at the front of the room, his expression serious. "We've decrypted their communications," he began. "The pirates are in a hurry for that ore. We're going to relieve them of that burden."
He paused, his gaze sweeping across the gathered crew. "We're launching a rescue operation. J'Tan, I want you to prepare a tactical overview. R'Kala, plot a course for the inner asteroid field. Thomas, M'Sara, we need your engineering expertise. We'll need to disable the pirate mining facilities without causing a catastrophic collapse."
M'Sara's ears twitched at the mention of their role. "We'll do our best," she said, her voice calm but determined.
Valerius nodded. "This operation needs to be swift and precise. Above all, we need to bring those younglings home." He turned to address the room. "However, before we proceed, they have hostages, and their forces are spread out in the system. We need a diversion to draw their patrol ships away from the mining operations."
The room fell silent as crew members considered the challenge. M'Sara's tail flicked slightly, a sign of her active thinking. Thomas leaned forward, his mind already racing with possibilities.
"We also need to wait for our colony younglings they kidnapped to arrive," Valerius concluded. "We'll regroup once we have more information."
As the meeting continued, Thomas and M'Sara exchanged glances, their shared determination evident. They were ready to face whatever came next, together.
When the Time is Right
The ready room of the Hegh'ta was dimly lit by the soft glow of holographic displays and the faint ambient light from the ship's systems. The walls were minimalistic, with no windows to break the monotony of the gray metal panels. A large holographic display dominated one wall, showing the layout of the Kepler-186 system and the positions of the pirate fleet within it. The air was thick with the hum of machinery and the low murmur of conversation as the bridge crew and Captain Valerius discussed their next move.
Thomas sat at the table in the center of the room, his hands resting on the holographic interface in front of him. M'Sara was perched in his lap, her tail flicking gently behind her as she leaned forward to look over his hand. Her hand-paw rested on his forearm, and her toes pressed lightly against his calf for balance. Despite the serious nature of the discussion, Thomas could feel the warmth of her fur against his skin and the faint pressure of her back against his.
The other officers were scattered around the room, some standing near the holographic display, others seated at the table with their own holographic interfaces. Lieutenant J'Tan R'Astraea, the tactical officer, was leaning against the wall with her arms crossed, her golden eyes narrowing as she listened to the discussion. Lieutenant R'Kala D'Rei, the navigator, was tapping her hand-paw on the edge of the table in a rhythmic pattern, her black-and-orange striped fur catching the light from the holographic displays.
Captain Valerius stood at the head of the table, his hands behind his back as he looked out over the assembled crew. "We need to get those younglings back," he said, his voice firm but measured. "But we can't just charge in without a plan. We need something that will catch them off guard."
The officers murmured among themselves, their tails flicking or ears twitching as they considered different strategies. Thomas tapped the table with his finger, his mind racing as he tried to come up with an idea. M'Sara twisted slightly in his lap, her tail brushing against his arm as she leaned closer to him.
"Think about Rome," Thomas muttered under his breath, more to himself than to anyone else.
M'Sara tilted her ears to the sides, her cobalt eyes narrowing as she tried to understand what he was getting at. She placed her hand-paw on his shoulder again, her fur brushing against his skin as she leaned closer.
Thomas smiled slightly, though it was more of a grimace than anything else. "We need something they won't expect," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "Something that will make them lower their guard."
Thomas tapped a rhythm on the table—tap-tap-tap—his brow furrowed as he replayed the pirate communications, the frantic chatter about ore shipments and younglings. M'Sara's hand-paw settled on his arm, her touch grounding him. Tap-tap-tap. Then, a memory surfaced: the crumbling walls of Rome, the hidden soldiers within the wooden horse. His eyes snapped open. A Trojan horse.
M'Sara's tail flicked again, and she gave him a small nudge with her head. Her ears tilted forward, signaling her interest in the idea.
Captain Valerius turned his attention back to the group as a whole. "Any ideas?" he asked, his gaze sweeping across the room.
He turned, pressing his forehead briefly against M'Sara's. Her ears tilted forward, curious, her tail giving a soft, questioning flick. He whispered, "Thank you," his breath warm against her ear fur. She purred—a low, rumbling sound deep in her chest—and nuzzled his jaw, her whiskers brushing his skin. The purr vibrated through him, a silent I'm here.
Thomas took a deep breath, "We could use holographic projectors and spare parts," Thomas said, his voice steady despite the nerves in his stomach. "Make the Hegh'ta look and appear on their scanners like a freighter full of cargo they want."
The officers turned their attention to him, their ears tilting forward as they listened intently. M'Sara placed her hand-paw on his forearm, her tail brushing against his side in a gesture of support.
Captain Valerius raised an eyebrow. "Go on," he said.
Thomas nodded. "We could set up holographic projectors to create the illusion of cargo containers and other supplies on the exterior of the ship. Pirates are always looking for easy targets, especially if they think there's something valuable inside."
M'Sara tilted her head slightly, her ears twitching as she processed his words. She gave him a small nudge with her hand-paw, signaling that she agreed with the idea.
Captain Valerius crossed his arms, his expression thoughtful. "And what about timing?" he asked. "We need to make sure our main fleet is ready to move in once we've drawn them out."
Thomas nodded. "We'd need to wait for the right moment," he said. "Make sure the pirates are focused on the Hegh'ta before committing the rest of the fleet. It's a risk, but it could work."
M'Sara's tail flicked again, and she gave him another nudge with her hand-paw. Her ears were tilted forward, signaling her confidence in his plan.
Captain Valerius turned to the other officers. "What do you think?" he asked.
Lieutenant J'Tan R'Astraea stepped forward, her golden eyes narrowing as she considered the idea. "It's risky," she said, "but it could work. We'd need to coordinate with the main fleet and make sure they're ready to move in once we've drawn the pirates out."
Lieutenant R'Kala D'Rei nodded. "We can use the scout ships to monitor their movements and ensure we don't get caught off guard," she said, her voice calm but firm.
Captain Valerius turned back to Thomas. "You think this will work?" he asked.
Thomas nodded. "It's a long shot," he admitted, "but it's worth trying. We can't just sit here and wait for them to make the first move."
M'Sara placed her hand-paw on his arm again, her tail brushing against his side in a gesture of encouragement. Her ears were tilted forward, signaling her agreement.
Captain Valerius gave a slow nod. "Alright," he said. "Let's do it. J'Tan, I want you to work with Thomas and M'Sara to set up the holographic projectors. R'Kala, plot a course that will take us into position without being detected until we're ready. The rest of you, get to work preparing for this."
The officers nodded in unison, their tails flicking or ears twitching as they acknowledged the orders. M'Sara gave Thomas another nudge with her hand-paw.
Thomas looked at M'Sara and gave her a small smile. "Thanks," he said softly, his voice barely above a whisper.
M'Sara tilted her head slightly, her ears tilting forward in a gesture of understanding. She placed her hand-paw on his arm, her tail brushing against his side once more.
Captain Valerius watched as the officers began to move into action, his expression thoughtful. "I think this is our best chance," he said quietly, though no one was sure if he was speaking to himself or the others.
Thomas turned back to his holographic interface, his mind already racing with the details of how to implement the plan. M'Sara, her tail flicking gently on his leg as she watched him work, her ears tilted forward in a gesture of support and encouragement.
Together, they would make sure that the pirates never saw this coming.
The engineering deck of the Hegh'ta buzzed with activity, the hum of machinery and the soft chitter of Katzen voices filling the air. Thomas sat cross-legged on the reinforced deck plating, his back against one of the support beams that ran the length of the room. M'Sara was curled against his chest, her small frame fitting perfectly into the crook of his arm. Her tail, a soft brush of melanistic fur, twitched with quiet concentration as she traced a schematic on the holographic interface projected from the fabricator's display.
"See here?" M'Sara murmured, her voice low and warm against his shoulder. She tapped a point on the hologram. "The stress fractures on the port thruster housing. We need to replicate the exact pattern of wear, not just the shape. Pirates scan for that. They know a ship that's been hauling heavy ore for months won't have pristine plating."
Thomas nodded, his hand moving to the thick fur along the side of her head, just behind her ear. She leaned into the touch, a soft, contented rumble vibrating in her chest—a sound reserved for moments of deep comfort. "Right," he agreed, his voice rough from the long day.
M'Sara tilted her head, her ears swiveling slightly forward, the soft pink tips catching the dim deck lights. "Exactly. The mismatched rivets on the secondary hull plates too. They'll expect that." She shifted, her bare foot brushing his calf, seeking the familiar contact. "It's about understanding the details, Thomas. The wear and tear, the subtle imperfections. Pirates aren't looking for perfection, they're looking for easy targets."
K'Rell, the gruff bridge officer, gestured towards a pair of technicians preparing for an EVA. "L'Thia, K'Vael, you're up. Get those holographic projectors mounted on the dorsal hull. Remember, the emitters need to be perfectly aligned. We want a seamless projection, not a flickering mess."
L'Thia, her Lehpparr form radiating energy, gave a sharp nod. "Understood, K'Rell." She exchanged a quick glance with K'Vael, the Zervix technician's large ears twitching with anticipation. The two of them moved efficiently, their digitigrade strides silent as they prepared for the EVA.
Thomas watched them go, then turned back to M'Sara. "Remember," he called out, his voice carrying over the deck, "the scan profile from the scout ship. We need to mimic that exactly. Old engines, outdated shielding, minimal weaponry. They need to think we're just another freighter hauling lots of ore, including osmium."
D'Ressa, her Luchs features focused and intense, was overseeing the installation of a false sensor array. "The pirates will be running a standard scan," she said in Katzen, her voice low and precise. "We've programmed the system to return a believable profile. Old engines, outdated shielding, minimal weaponry. They won't suspect a thing."
T'Kael, the Nebelparder, zipped between consoles, her gray-green eyes scanning readouts. She spoke rapidly in Katzen, her words punctuated by a soft chirp. "The emitters are calibrated! Atmospheric distortion is perfect—simulating the heat bloom of a ship running sublight for weeks. The details are key." She tapped a console, her clawed finger pad clicking softly. "Like the way the exhaust plume flickers when the thrusters are cold."
R'Kaele, the Zervix, worked beside T'Kael, her large ears swiveling constantly as she monitored energy flow. Her blue-gray eyes were wide with focus. "The projection is stable," she said in English, her voice carrying a faint Katzen accent. "No flicker. The osmium signature in the cargo hold is exactly as the scout ship scanned." She tapped the console again, clicking a modern metal ink pen from Earth that she has had since the academy on Mars —a nervous habit. "We are ready."
K'Rell, overhearing, grunted in approval. "That's the spirit," he said in Katzen. "Now, get back to work! We haven't got all cycle to stand around admiring each other!"
M'Sara let out a soft, rumbling chuckle, the sound vibrating against Thomas's chest. She leaned her head fully against his shoulder, her tail curling gently over his ankle for a moment—a rare, intimate gesture of shared tension and comfort. Her cobalt eyes met his, the flicker of worry from earlier replaced by fierce, quiet determination. She didn't need words. Her presence, the warmth of her fur against his skin, the steady rhythm of her breathing, was her reassurance.
Thomas squeezed her shoulder gently, his thumb brushing the dense fur on her upper arm. "We've got this," he murmured, the words meant only for her, a promise woven into the quiet hum of the ship. "Just like we always do."
Time is Relative
The engineering deck of the Hegh'ta was dimly lit, the soft glow of holographic displays casting an eerie blue hue across the walls. The air was thick with tension, the faint hum of machinery the only sound in the otherwise quiet space. Thomas sat at his station, his fingers flying over the holographic interface as he reviewed the latest scans and system diagnostics. M'Sara was perched on his lap, her tail flicking gently behind her, a sign of her growing impatience.
"Anything?" Thomas asked, his voice low and gravelly, breaking the silence.
M'Sara shook her head, her ears tilting slightly back. "Just the same scans, Thomas. The pirates are still... careless. They haven't adjusted their approach. It's almost irritating." She shifted, pressing closer to him, her paw pads flexing against the fabric of his jeans. "They think they're being clever, masking their energy signatures, but it's... childish."
Thomas chuckled softly, a dry sound. "They're pirates, M'Sara. Clever isn't usually in the job description."
"It's not about cleverness," she corrected, her voice a low rumble. "It's about respect. They don't respect the potential for danger. They don't respect the lives of those they've taken. It... bothers me." She paused, her ears flicking forward. "They think they're getting away with something. They think they're being... successful."
He tightened his grip on her arm, offering silent reassurance. "We'll show them otherwise."
The two worked in companionable silence for a few moments, the weight of their mission hanging heavy in the air. M'Sara's tail twitched occasionally, a sign of her restlessness, while Thomas's fingers moved steadily across the holographic interface.
***
Just as they were about to return from their mid-shift break, K'Rell's voice crackled over the comms. "Attention Engineering. We've got movement in the system. The pirate ship has arrived. Thomas, M'Sara report to the ready room."
Thomas and M'Sara exchanged a glance, M'Sara translated for him, their eyes meeting for a split second before they sprang into action. M'Sara hopped off Thomas' lap with surprising agility, her movements fluid and graceful despite the urgency of the moment. Without a word, they rushed down the corridor toward the ready room.
The sound of Thomas's boots echoed through the empty hallway, but M'Sara's padded feet made no noise at all. Her tail swished behind her as she moved, a silent reminder of the feline grace that defined her species. The two were in sync, their movements almost choreographed as they navigated the tight spaces of the ship.
As they approached the ready room, Thomas couldn't help but glance over at M'Sara. Her fur was sleek and glossy under the artificial lighting, her cobalt eyes glowing with determination. He felt a surge of pride and protectiveness, knowing that she was by his side through this mission.
The door to the ready room slid open with a soft hiss, revealing K'Rell standing beside the tactical console along with K'Tharr, and the rest of the bridge officers. The large Katzen turned as they entered, his ears twitching slightly in their direction.
"Captain Valerius is waiting for you," K'Rell said, his voice calm and steady despite the tension in the air.
Thomas nodded, his jaw set in determination. "Let's do this."
M'Sara stepped beside him, her tail flicking once more before settling into place. Together, they walked into the ready room, prepared to face whatever came next.
The ready room was small, rectangular, with walls that were minimalistic in design, save for control panels integrated into them. A holographic display dominated one end of the room, casting soft blue light across the table where the officers sat. The air was thick with tension, the faint hum of the ship's systems the only sound until K'Tharr began his briefing.
Thomas and M'Sara entered together, their movements fluid and practiced. Thomas walked to his usual chair by the door, while M'Sara hopped onto his lap, her movements graceful even in such close quarters. Her tail flicked slightly, a sign of her focus, as she settled against him. The rest of the officers took their seats around the table, leaving K'Tharr standing at the tactical display.
The holographic projection of the pirate freighter filled the room, its aged hull pockmarked with scars from countless journeys. Minimal point defense weapons dotted its sides, and the ship's engines glowed faintly as it plodded through space. "This is our target," K'Tharr said, his voice steady but tinged with a hint of emotion. His ears were slightly flattened, a sign of his distress at the thought of the younglings inside.
Thomas could feel M'Sara tense against him, her foot-paws digging into his calves ever so slightly. He squeezed her shoulder in silent reassurance, knowing she was as concerned about the mission as he was.
K'Tharr continued, "Scans show minimal crew—four beings—and dozens of younglings crammed into the cargo bay." His voice dropped slightly, and for a moment, Thomas could see the flicker of anger in the Togartz's eyes. "They're not expecting us," K'Tharr said, his tone hardening. "We'll take them by surprise."
He gestured to the display, highlighting the ship's layout. "Using our stealth transport, capable of approaching undetected, you, Thomas, and M'Sara, along with a small team of marines—including T'Liana—will board the target. Your primary objective is to disable the warp drive. The marines' primary objective is to secure the bridge. Once the warp drive is down, signal 'OK' using the running lights—Morse code. That's our cue."
K'Tharr stepped back, his ears twitching slightly as he looked around the table. "As soon as we receive that signal," he continued, "Operation Trojan Horse begins. Our cruiser, waiting just beyond the Ort cloud, will warp in and tractor the freighter into its bay. That's when Hegh'ta will drop its disguise while cloaked. Then, the attack begins. The Hegh'ta will uncloak for maximum effect while the rest of the fleet arrives. Multiple stealthed transports will deploy marines into the asteroid field to rescue the slaves and hostages, they will use the protocols laid out by Thomas, and M'Sara."
The room was silent for a moment, the weight of the mission hanging in the air. Valerius nodded sharply. "Understood," he said, his voice cutting through the tension. "Get it done. Dismissed."
As the officers began to file out, Thomas turned to M'Sara. "Ready?" he asked, his voice low.
M'Sara tilted her head slightly, her ears swiveling forward. "Always," she replied, her tone firm but tinged with a hint of nervousness. She climbed off his lap and stood beside him, her tail flicking once in a gesture of determination.
Together, they headed out of the ready room, their destination the armory. The mission was on, and there was no time to waste.
Now is a Good Time to Die
The armory was dimly lit, the faint hum of machinery filling the air as Thomas and M'Sara rushed in. T'Liana was already suited up, her armor gleaming under the artificial light. She turned as they entered, her ears twitching slightly forward in a silent greeting.
Thomas opened his locker, the scent of polished metal and synthetic polymers filling his nostrils. His custom-fitted Katzen for a human armor lay neatly arranged—a stark contrast to the sleek, feline-optimized suits designed for the Katzen. M'Sara moved to her locker beside him, her movements fluid and graceful.
A shared glance passed between them, a silent acknowledgment of the intimacy to come. This wasn't just about donning protective gear; it was a ritual, a preparation for danger that involved a level of trust and closeness few shared.
They began to undress, shedding their clothing, even the light undergarments. The air grew warmer, the ship's ventilation barely making a difference. Thomas felt a familiar warmth spread through him as M'Sara's fur brushed against his bare skin as they moved.
"Careful," M'Sara murmured, her voice a low rumble. "Don't want any scratches." She tilted her head, her ears swiveling slightly, a playful glint in her cobalt eyes.
"Wouldn't dream of it," Thomas replied, a smile tugging at his lips.
The under-armor was a skin-tight, flexible weave designed to regulate temperature and provide a base layer for the protective plates. It felt cool against their skin, conforming to every curve and muscle. Then came the armor itself.
Thomas began to assemble his suit, the plates clicking into place with satisfying precision. It was heavier than normal Katzen armor, designed to withstand impacts that their more agile forms could avoid. M'Sara moved with effortless grace, her paws deftly manipulating the interlocking plates of her suit. The armor molded to her feline form, accentuating her lithe musculature.
T'Liana watched them, her expression focused. Once they were both suited up, she stepped forward, her tail flicking slightly as she inspected their armor. "Good," she said, her voice low and gravelly. "We're ready."
The three of them made their way to the launch bay, the aft upper deck of the ship. The stealth transport was sleek and silent, its design optimized for covert operations. Thomas, M'Sara, and T'Liana boarded the transport, followed by two other marines—the Löwe twins. The pilot and co-pilot were already in the cockpit, their armor gleaming under the dim lights.
Once everyone was seated and strapped in, the hatch closed with a soft hiss. The stealth transport launched out of the top aft section heading up relative to the Hegh'ta, its engines humming quietly as it moved into position. The target came into view on the displays, its silhouette faint against the blackness of space.
The transport shuddered as the docking clamps locked with a metallic thunk, jarring Thomas against his harness. M'Sara's tail flicked sharply, a quick, sharp movement of tension, as she grunted in unison with him. "Docking sealed," she murmured, her voice low and steady, though her ears tilted forward, alert.
They pushed out of their seats, M'Sara's bare pads silent on the deck plating as Thomas's boots echoed. The airlock hatch was a nightmare of peeling rust and flaking paint, the metal beneath corroded and uneven. M'Sara grabbed a rag from her belt pouch, her charcoal-black paw pads gripping the edge as she scrubbed furiously at a sensor cluster. Thomas worked alongside her, his human fingers clumsy against the grime, but M'Sara's precise movements—her tail held rigidly straight, her ears swiveling to track the ship's vibrations—guided him. "Here," she rasped, her voice a rumble against his shoulder as she pointed to a hidden access panel. "The sensor array is here, not where the rust leads."
Working in tandem, they bypassed the sensors with practiced efficiency, M'Sara feeding Thomas the codes from her vambrace computer while he input them. The system whined softly, then clicked into override.
The airlock hissed as it retracted, revealing a dimly lit corridor beyond. Rust and peeling paint clung to the walls like patches of decaying skin, a stark reminder of neglect. M'Sara wrinkled her nose slightly, her ears tilting forward in disgust. "Looks like they haven't bothered with maintenance in… well, ever," she observed, her voice a low rumble.
Thomas nodded, his eyes scanning the corridor as he stepped out of the transport. The air was thick with the scent of oil and metal, faintly acrid. He could feel M'Sara's presence at his side, her armor brushing against his as they moved in sync. "Let's not waste time," he said quietly. "We've got work to do."
The Löwe twins led the way, their golden eyes narrowing as they swept the area with practiced efficiency. One of them gestured sharply toward a bulkhead, signaling that the corridor was clear. T'Liana fell into position behind them, her Lehpparr form coiled with tension. "I don't like this quiet," she muttered under her breath, her voice sharp and clipped.
Thomas and M'Sara followed close behind, their movements deliberate and focused. The engine room was little more than a cramped, cluttered space filled with garbage and scrap metal. Panels lay askew, wires dangled hazardously from the ceiling, and the air hummed with the faint buzz of failing systems. It was a mess, but Thomas knew exactly where to start.
M'Sara moved to his side, her vambrace computer already active. She gestured toward a console buried beneath a pile of debris. "Let's get this over with," she said, her tone firm. Together, they began clearing the panels, working in perfect harmony as if they were extensions of one another.
Thomas plugged his vambrace into the console, his fingers flying across the holographic interface. The system responded sluggishly, but he quickly bypassed the safeguards, overriding the lock with ease. M'Sara watched him intently, her ears swiveling slightly forward as she waited for the signal to send the Morse code through the running lights.
As Thomas worked, T'Liana kept a watchful eye on the entryway, her tail flicking nervously behind her. The silence was oppressive, broken only by the faint hum of the ship's systems and the occasional creak of metal. It felt too quiet, too still—and T'Liana didn't like it one bit.
Finally, Thomas unplugged his vambrace with a satisfied nod. "Done," he said, turning to M'Sara. "Send the signal."
M'Sara acknowledged with a quick tilt of her ears, her tail curling slightly in a rare moment of tension. She activated her vambrace and sent the Morse code signal, the faint blinking lights on the ship's exterior signaling that the warp drive was offline.
As they waited for a report from the twins, the sound of plasma rounds being fired echoed through the corridors outside. T'Liana's ears flattened against her head, her tail lashing behind her in a sudden burst of movement. "They're moving," she growled, her voice low and urgent.
Thomas exchanged a glance with M'Sara, his jaw tightening slightly. "I'm sure they are no match for the twins."
M'Sara didn't respond, but her ears twitched slightly forward as if listening for something beyond the immediate sounds of battle. Her hand-paw rested on Thomas' side, a silent reassurance in the midst of chaos.
From the corridor, they heard the sharp crack of plasma fire, then the sudden, heavy silence of a ship's bridge being secured. T'Liana's voice cut through the quiet, sharp and clear: "Bridge secured. Moving to the cargo bay."
M'Sara exhaled, a soft, rumbling sound against Thomas's chest. She turned her head, her dark eyes meeting his in the dim light. Her ears were relaxed now, tilted slightly forward, the tension easing from her shoulders. "Now," she said, her voice barely above a whisper, "we wait for the fleet."
Together, they turned and followed T'Liana out of the engine room, their movements deliberate and focused as they prepared to face whatever came next.
The cargo bay of the pirate freighter was a stark contrast to the sleek, efficient engineering spaces Thomas was used to. The air was thick with the acrid scent of fear and neglect, and the dim lighting cast long shadows across the scattered crates and containers. M'Sara moved with deliberate calmness, her movements fluid and reassuring as she approached the hatch leading into the cargo bay.
She plugged her vambrace computer into the access panel, the device humming softly as it bypassed the security protocols. A series of clicks and whirs echoed in the corridor, and a green light flickered to life above the hatch. "Access granted," M'Sara announced, her voice steady and reassuring. She turned to Thomas and T'Liana with a nod, signaling it was time to move.
The hatch hissed open, revealing the chaotic scene within. Empty cargo containers were scattered across the floor, their metal sides dented and scarred. In the center of the bay, a mass of young Katzen huddled together, their fur matted and dirty, their eyes wide with terror. M'Sara's heart clenched at the sight.
She removed her helmet, her ears tilting slightly forward as she stepped into the cargo bay. "We're here to help," she said softly, her voice carrying a tone of calm authority. "You're safe now. We're taking you home." Her words were simple and direct, meant to reassure the frightened younglings.
Thomas followed close behind, his eyes scanning the room for any signs of resistance or danger. He removed his own helmet, his short brown hair catching the dim light as he stepped into the cargo bay.
T'Liana moved to stand beside M'Sara, her golden-brown fur gleaming faintly in the dim light. She removed her helmet as well, her ears twitching slightly as she assessed the situation. "We will keep you safe," she said, her voice low but firm. "You're safe now."
M'Sara knelt down, her movements deliberate and reassuring. She reached out a hand-paw to one of the younglings, her ears tilting forward as she offered comfort. "It's okay," she said softly. "We're here to take you home." The youngling hesitated for a moment before cautiously approaching, tears running down his muzzle.
"Where is my mother?" he asked, his voice trembling with fear. M'Sara's heart ached at the question, but she remained calm. "She's waiting for us," she said gently. "We're taking you back to her."
Another youngling, slightly older, approached cautiously. He pointed at Thomas, his eyes wide with curiosity and fear. "What is that?" he asked, his voice tinged with confusion. T'Liana knelt beside M'Sara, her ears twitching as she translated for Thomas.
"He's a human," T'Liana explained, her voice calm and reassuring. "Humans are our friends. They're here to help." The youngling tilted his head slightly, his eyes narrowing as he studied Thomas. "He looks funny," the youngling said finally, his voice laced with confusion.
M'Sara couldn't help but chuckle softly at the comment, her ears flicking slightly in amusement. "Yes, humans look different from us," she said, her voice soft and reassuring. "But, they're our friends." She turned to Thomas with a Katzen equivalent to a small smile, her ears slightly tilted to the sides, her cobalt eyes meeting his hazel ones.
Thomas returned the smile, his own heart swelling with gratitude for M'Sara's strength and compassion. He knelt down beside her, offering a reassuring wave to one of the younglings who had approached cautiously. "Hello," he said, his voice steady and calm.
Just then, the ship gave a sudden jolt, causing several of the younglings to cry out in fear. Thomas, M'Sara, and T'Liana all braced themselves instinctively, catching one of the younglings who had nearly fallen. "It's okay," M'Sara said quickly, her voice calm and reassuring. "That was just the tractor beam. We're being brought aboard a large Katzen ship now."
The youngling she had caught looked up at her with wide eyes, his muzzle trembling slightly. "Are we home yet?" he asked, his voice tinged with fear. M'Sara nodded firmly, her ears tilting forward in reassurance. "We will be before you know it," she said. "We're safe now. We're taking you home."
As the tractor beam's pull steadied, the younglings began to relax slightly, though their eyes remained wide and wary. M'Sara stood slowly, her movements deliberate as she assessed the situation. "Let's get everyone seated," she said, her voice firm but gentle. "It might get a little rough when they secure the ship in the landing bay."
T'Liana nodded, her ears twitching slightly as she moved to help organize the younglings. "We'll make sure they're all safe," she said, her voice calm and reassuring. "They're in good hands now."
M'Sara turned to Thomas with a small smile, her cobalt eyes meeting his hazel ones. "We did it," she said softly, her voice filled with quiet pride. "Together."
The final shudder of the tractor beam subsided, then there was a jolt as they were secured, leaving an eerie silence in its wake. Thomas felt the ship stabilize beneath him as the pirate freighter was securely clamped within the cruiser's docking bay. He stood with M'Sara and T'Liana in the cargo hold, the air thick with tension and the faint scent of fear lingering among the younglings.
M'Sara knelt beside a group of trembling Katzen younglings, her ears tilting slightly forward as she spoke soothing words in Katzen. Her tail flicked gently, a subtle reassurance that they were safe now. Thomas watched, his hands instinctively reaching out to offer comfort without words—his presence a silent support.
The cargo bay doors slid open with a low hum, revealing the cruiser's interior bathed in soft, ambient lighting. A team of Katzen medics entered, their white reflective straps glinting under the artificial glow. They moved efficiently, assessing the younglings and beginning to load them onto hovering gurneys.
Thomas stepped forward, helping to guide the younglings toward the medics. M'Sara stayed close, her voice calm as she reassured those who clung to her. T'Liana kept watch at the hatch that led back to the interior of the freighter, ensuring no threats remained.
As the last of the younglings were whisked away, M'Sara turned to Thomas. Her cobalt eyes met his, and she pressed her forehead briefly against his side. "They will be okay," she murmured, her voice a gentle reassurance. Thomas nodded, squeezing her shoulder in return, his thumb brushing the soft fur behind her ear—a gesture of comfort they both understood.
T'Liana gave a low rumble of approval, her tail flicking once toward the corridor where the younglings had disappeared. The trio stood in silence for a moment, the weight of their mission settling over them.
A Katzen crew member approached, leading them to one of the sub mess halls inside the Katzen cruiser, to wait. Inside, they sat in quiet reflection, the adrenaline of the rescue beginning to fade. Thomas glanced at M'Sara, her ears still slightly forward, a sign of lingering concern. He reached out, his hand resting on her arm—a simple touch that spoke volumes.
As they waited, the distant sounds of the cruiser's operations filled the room—whispers of life continuing beyond their small space. For now, their part in this mission was complete. The younglings were safe, and soon they would be reunited with their families.
The sub mess hall of the cruiser Technikschatten was dimly lit, its walls a clean expanse of minimalistic design. Viewports were covered with armored shutters, blocking out the chaos of the battle raging outside. The room was quiet save for the faint hum of the ship's systems and the occasional murmur of distant voices from the corridor beyond. Thomas, M'Sara, and T'Liana sat at a small table near the center of the room, their armor still in place but helmets set aside on the table. The twins had left to assist with searching the freighter, leaving the trio to discuss the situation in relative privacy.
M'Sara leaned back slightly in her chair, her tail flicking against the underside of the tabletop in a slow, deliberate rhythm. Her cobalt eyes were sharp as she studied the holographic display projected above the table from her vanbrace, which showed schematics of the pirate ship and its systems. "They didn't just make a mistake," she said softly, her voice carrying a faint rumble that was more Katzen than human. "They wanted us to find this freighter. They wanted us to see it."
T'Liana nodded, her dark orange fur catching the light of the hologram as she leaned forward. Her tail swayed slowly behind her, a sign of deep focus. "They were playing a game," she said, her voice low and measured. "They thought they could outsmart us by hiding their true intentions."
Thomas ran a hand through his short brown hair, his gaze flicking between the hologram and M'Sara's profile. "But why use a freighter at all?" he asked. "If they wanted to mislead us, wouldn't a destroyer have been more convincing?"
M'Sara tilted her head slightly, her ears swiveling forward as she considered the question. "Because they weren't trying to hide the ship," she said. "They were trying to hide the cargo. The ore, the younglings—they wanted us to think it was all about the ore. They wanted us to focus on the destroyer and miss the freighter."
T'Liana's tail flicked sharply, a sign of agreement. "Exactly. They knew we'd be looking for something big, something intimidating. So they gave us the destroyer as a distraction. But the real prize—the younglings—were in the freighter all along."
M'Sara's tail twitched again, this time with a hint of frustration. "They thought we'd fall for it," she said, her voice low and tinged with contempt. "They thought we'd be so focused on the destroyer that we'd miss the freighter. But they underestimated us."
Thomas leaned forward slightly, his elbows resting on the table. "But why? Why go through all this trouble just to transport dozens of younglings?"
M'Sara's ears drooped slightly as she looked down at her paws, the black pads catching the light of the hologram. "Because it's not just about the ore," she said. "It's about sending a message. About showing us that they can outsmart us, that they can get what they want despite our best efforts."
T'Liana's tail gave another slow sway as she considered this. "They're not just pirates," she said. "They're players. And we just made a move they didn't expect."
M'Sara's tail flicked again, this time with a hint of determination. "We need to find out who is behind this," she said firmly. "Before it's too late."
The trio fell silent for a moment, their thoughts turning to the broader implications of what they'd discovered. The battle outside, in the void, raged on, but inside the Technikschatten, the focus was on uncovering the truth—and ensuring that those responsible would never be able to strike again.
As they waited, M'Sara reached out and gently rested a paw on Thomas's arm, her claws retracted. "We'll find them," she said softly, her voice a mix of determination and reassurance. "And when we do… they'll regret crossing us."
Thomas nodded, his gaze meeting hers. "Together," he said simply.
T'Liana gave a soft rumble of agreement, her tail flicking once more in the direction of the hologram. "We're not done yet," she said. "Not by a long shot."