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BOOK 2 RETURN OF THE TEMPLAR BATTLE SQUADRON

Return of the Templars Overview: In the future mankind has colonized the universe, along with this, came the human nature of war, greed, and aggression. The weapons of war has evolved especially on the ground, the 7 foot tall war machines known as battle suits has dominated the battlefield. Armed with beam rifles, missile launchers, devastating beam cannons such as the atomizer, has been invented to maximize the carnage. In close quarter battles, hand held weapons such as swords, axes, hellbreds, and spear is still been in used along with the hand held shield to protect the pilot from the blow. What is so amazing about this war machines is that it has become a combination of infantry, armor such as the ancient tanks of old, and fighter aircraft all in one, in the guise of a human like metallic armor. The only difference now in this time and age is that each Galactic Empire has its own distinct culture, from the Asian beliefs and culture to the western ways of society. Each of this culture has its own uniqueness and at times they are unknown to many. To the people of Etiratia which is a Galactic Empire heavily influenced by the Samurai traditions of ancient Japan from the mother planet known as Earth this is the case. For decades war has been fought by them against their greedy nemesis the Dreadi Coalition, many has lost their lives in this conflict and few saw love that can be achieved by two people in this turbulent times. This is a story of special circumstances where a new breed of samurai warrior met the destiny of their hearts and their fate to be the champions of their homeland. The Dreadi Coalition has been stopped at the doors of the planet Aria, there a few brave samurai warriors fought with tenacity and determination to stem the tide of their invading foes. Many have lost their lives to defend their beloved homeland and heroes were born out of necessity, the Templar Battle Squadron has emerged to be the most well known and elite of all the Imperial Aces Battle Squadron. Now the time has come for the Etiratian Defense Force to totally repel their nemesis, the Royal Dreadi Forces. An invasion deep within the Dreadi Coalition has been planned to finally drive the Dreadi Nobles to the peace table and end this seemingly unending war between the Galactic Empire of Etiratia and the Royal Dreadi Coalition. Aria is a wonderful planet and for what seems to have been a desolate war zone has now became a lively place with vegetation in this beautiful environment. It has been six months since I have last set foot on this planet, six months since my days as Shaider were lived, I have seen enough men perish and done enough for men to perish. If ever I can have one wish, it would be to end this war and let everyone of us, Etiratian and Dreadi alike to live in peace. I long for that day to last a lifetime and not for a mere six months. The shuttle landed and its door opened, I stood up from my seat, brushed my dark blue dress uniform and gathered my military issued bag from the compartment. A junior officer walked in the shuttle’s passenger’s berth and saluted. "Captain Doji Kurohito I presumed," he said unto me. "Yes I am Lieutenant," replied I returning his salute crisply. "Legion Commander Van Drek sent me sir," the junior officer explained. "I am one of his aides-de-camp." "Of course," I placed the harness of my bag unto my shoulders. "Lead the way Lieutenant." I followed my escort to a waiting hover car, removing my bag and placing it on the trunk. I have then sat down on the rear seat, as the hover car sped off, I can not help but gaze upon the surrounding area. So much has changed since I was last stationed in this planet, the people are happy, there are no longer any military warning stations that can be found, and the planet seems to have boomed since the last battle. "Sir, I understand that you were here during the battle," the Lieutenant said gazing at his rear view mirror. "Is it true that you held off a division of elite Dreadi forces on Firebase Hope?" "That was a long time ago Lieutenant." "I am honored to meet you sir and if I may call you by your codename, Shaider." It has been quite a while since anyone has uttered my codename with the exception of my Templar Battle Squadron, to hear that codename again has reawaken a spirit that resides in my being, a spirit that I have known to be responsible for all the deeds which I have accomplished in the defense of the homeland. "Keep your eyes on the road Lieutenant." "Yes sir I am sorry sir," replied the curious junior officer as his eyes refocused to the road ahead. Upon arriving at the base I have exited the hover car and fetched my belongings from its trunk. "Shaider," called out a familiar voice. After harnessing the bag unto my shoulders I have gazed my eyes to the one who has called me. "Ghost," I have replied to 1st Lt. Kai Kaneka. "I did not know you are here, I have thought that the only one summoned by the Legion Commander was me." "All of us in the Templars were summoned sir," he said saluting to me. I returned his salute and pat my second in command’s shoulder. "How are you and Rose?" "We’re good Captain," replied Ghost. "After this assignment is done we’re getting married sir." "Sir the battle suits of your unit is in the hangar bay," informed the aide-de-camp. "Thank you Lieutenant," replied I looking at the man and turned my attention to Ghost. "That’s great Kai. I’m proud for the both of you. "The Legion Commander will not be here for a couple of hours," said the aide. "But, as per Legion Commander Van Drek’s orders you and your unit may take them out for a trial run sir." "Good," replied I with a hint of a slight smile. "Let us test our battle suit Ghost." "Right behind you sir," answered Ghost. "What about you and Doctor Campbell sir, how are you two doing?" "Could not be better Kai," I replied making my way towards the hangar bay as Ghost followed. "Glad to hear that sir." "Thank you Kai." As soon that we reached our destination I have set my bag to a locker and used my own lock, returning to the main hangar I have gazed upon my old friend, the one who has kept my life for so long, the MBS-5 Battle Suit. Next to me Ghost patted his MBS-4 Battle Suit’s shoulder nodding with a smile. "I missed this friend of mine Shaider," he exclaimed regarding his battle suit. "So do I Ghost." I clicked the button located on my battle suit’s left hip and take a couple of steps back, the battle suit hissed as it loosens for the pilot to place their body in its appropriate parts, thus allowing the pilot to wear their respective battle suit. After I have placed my limbs and my body to the MBS-5’s own limbs and body cavity I have moved my armored left arm and hit the button again, the whole battle suit locked into place, afterwards I then donned the helmet. "Where is Mumbatik, Hazier, and Caliber?" I have asked over the communication system. "They will arrive tomorrow Shaider," answered Ghost as he too activated his battle suit. "For now it’s me and you sir." "That will be sufficient," I answered making my way towards the exit. "Let us go and visit Firebase Hope." "Yes sir." As we took to the air extending our wings, I browse through my map and saw that many changes have truly occurred. After arriving in Firebase Hope, Ghost and I pay our respects to the ones who have sacrificed their lives to defend this firebase. I will never forget those moments, where 145 men stood against 10,000 Dreadi warriors. I am fortunate to have survived the battle and so is my Templar Battle Squadron. "Let’s check the Kapalahan desert sir," invited Ghost. "I hear that some of the bandits that were not here before have returned too." "Starting trouble again Ghost?" "No sir just wanting to test if their skills have improved," said 1st Lt. Kai Kaneka over the communication system. "I see," said I as both of our battle suits leaped into the air, extending its wings, and taking flight. As we arrive above one of the bandit infested towns I am surprised that they still exist, from our own order of battle these bandits should have been taken care off by our I.S.I.S. (Internal Security and Intelligence Service) agency. The I.S.I.S is Etiratia’s police, investigation, espionage, and counter-espionage agency. "Ghost I am thirsty and will buy a drink in that tavern," I have said to my second in command as I have indicated the Dark Tavern to be the place I will land. "Copy that sir and I will scout the area," replied Ghost. I have landed in front of the tavern and entered, making my way towards the bar I have ordered for a serving of ice mocha my usual drink and headed outside. A pair of augmented bandits that I have recognizes as Kabuto and Tac36 eyed me, the bandit Kabuto started his never ceasing offending words of degradation. I reviewed my data base and found a match. Kabuto was a bandit leader that has fled before when I and my Templar Battle Squadron roamed this badlands. Many of his colleagues were eliminated by my Battle Squadron and I. Fate never ceases to amaze me, when everything is though to be over this showdown has boiled up again. "As I have recalled it was you the fled from Ghost," said I to the bandit leader Kabuto. "You see this bottle this is all I need as a weapon to kill you," threatened Kabuto. "I’m waiting for you to attack." I launched 2 waves of A.I.T.O.C.L (A.I. thermaloptichameleoline) missiles at Kabuto, as the 1st wave surrounded him at all sides, from the left, right, and front, rear, and above. I then activated my own thermaloptichameleoline camouflage to avoid any detection. His assistant Tac36 slug towards my last known location, I side stepped avoiding his blow and aimed my atomizer cannon at point blank range, firing my atomizer cannon the augmented bandit leader’s assistant Tac36 was atomized in an instant. "No Tac I can take him out," shouted Kabuto as his friend was atomized in front of him. The 1st wave launched their cargo of deadly atomizer cannon platform around Kabuto, as they loose their deadly atomizer blasts Kabuto attempted to escape by jumping over them. Some atomizer platforms positioned themselves below Kabuto as they also fired their deadly atomizer blast. The bandit leader attempted to use his unknown weapon disguised as a bottle, however it was too late as the atomizers did their deed and send Kabuto to the afterlife atomized. To counter any new threat I have launched a wave of counter measure beam shield drones, as I have expected a second Kabuto augmented bandit appeared leaping to the air and slashing his sword with a beam slash heading to my last known position. My 2nd wave of missiles surrounded the foe, firing their atomizer cannons from the platform warhead, the atomizer beams negated Kabuto’s attack and in turn was consumed by the atomizer’s deadly burst of beam that found their mark from all sides of his body. "Shaider to base," I have said over the communication system. "Tac36 augmented bandit and a pair of Kabuto augmented bandits have been eliminated." "H.Q. to Shaider copy that," replied the communication specialist from our base. Another augmented bandit named Thorn Ripshield looked towards me and commented. "As far as anyone of us is concerned your battle suits are nothing but a cardboard box with stickers," said Thorn Ripshield. "That is your opinion," replied I entering the tavern making my way towards the bar, removing my helmet, and consumed my drink. Ghost overheard Thorn Ripshield’s comment and proceeded in locating the augmented bandit. Finally he has caught up to the bandit and landed in front of him. "I hear you’re saying crap about battle suits?" "What did I say?" "Cardboard box with stickers on it," replied Ghost. "Shaider must have sent you," said Thorn Ripshield. "Yup and its time that I have a kill," answered Ghost coldly. "I’ll show you that you can’t even touch me." Thorn Ripshield activated his vortex shield around him which is a doorway towards another dimension or places, and he is now using them as a shield presuming that Ghost will launch a barrage of missiles. Ghost activated his thermaloptichameleoline camouflage and his negating damper, the dampers inhibits Thorn Ripshield’s abilities including the vortex shield. 1st Lt. Kai Kaneka fired off his death blossom atomizers in 360 degrees destroying anything around his immediate area. Even if his vortex shield will succeed to be activated, an atomizer blast will punch through the vortex and still find their mark on the other side due to the fact that an atomizer’s beam exist in all planes, dimensions, and existence. Ghost’s atomizers blast consumed Thorn Ripshield atomizing the bandit from this world to the world of the deceased. "Ghost to Shaider, I have eliminated Thorn Ripshield," reported my second in command. "Copy that Ghost," I exited the tavern and once again took to the air. "Let us head for home." Moments later Ghost has rejoined me in our journey back to our base. "These bandits are getting smarter," commented Ghost. "They might be smart but not smart enough." "True Ghost they have not found a way to fight in battle suit warfare," replied I. "It’s a shame though because for a long time they wanted to take us out," said Ghost. "So far they never succeeded and never will." The MBS-5 and MBS-4 Battle Suits streaked through the clear skies as once again our Templar Battle Squadron has drew first blood.

Chapter 2

Farewell… Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori readied the luggage he would carry. As he was packing the last of his necessary equipment Jennifer Rider entered their room. "Why do you have to go again?" she asked with teary eyes. "I mean haven’t you done enough for Etiratia?" Mumbatik gazed at her beautiful yet sad face, he understand the feelings she has for him. From her Jennifer’s eyes he could see the fear, sadness, and loneliness that have engulfed her. The Etiratian Chief Warrant Officer made his way towards her, embracing the woman he loves. Mumbatik kissed her rosy lips wiping the tears from Jennifer’s eyes with his hand. "I know my love," he softly answered her. "You know I am a soldier and for a warrior it is a life of duty for the safety of everyone." "Don’t be so heroic Akad," she said to him. "Many men have died in this war and I don’t want you to be among those dead men." "Have fate Jenny," his lips once again found hers. "Its hard Akad," she cried out. "How can I have fate when so many men have already died? How many more needs to die so this stupid war can end?" Mumbatik once again held her in his arms, comforting the fear in her as she cries on his chest. For six months he and Jennifer Rider has lived a peaceful life, she worked as an architect while he tended to the ranch he has inherited from his family. Their life of solitude abruptly ended when Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori was sent a dispatch ordering him to rejoin the Templar Battle Squadron and once again be in active duty. Throughout his adult life Mumbatik has only known war, when he first entered service as a young private with the Shock Troops Regiment he has grown into a man. Many years and campaigns have passed while his reputation grew and he was promoted, now throughout the Imperial Defense Force of Etiratia he was known as the Grim Reaper. Once again he is to return in the field of combat and donned the red MBS-3 Battle Suit as Mumbatik, the Grim Reaper of Etiratia’s enemies. Jennifer Rider is afraid for his life, she does not want to lose the man that her heart has found to love all her life. The unknown of a soldier’s life has gripped her and fear has grown to worry, their life’s future plans came to be postpone after he can return to her and if he will be able to return home. "If it is fate’s will my love then I will return home to you," he answered kissing her lips passionately. She returned his passionate kiss with a fiery one as Mumbatik broke off their kiss she nods her approval of his comment. "I understand love." "That’s good Jenny I am glad you understand our duties as servants of Etiratia." Sergeant Major Ryu Kalan exited the hover car’s front passenger seat, as he make his way to the rear of the vehicle Yumi Kieto pressed the trunk release button. The man known as Hazier gathered his service bag and closed the vehicle’s trunk, he walked towards the driver’s side as his beautiful fiancé exited to meet him. "I hate it when you have to leave like this," she said kissing the Sergeant Major of the Templar Battle Squadron. "I know but duty calls," he replied after returning her passionate kiss. "How long will I have to wait for you Ryu?" "As soon that this campaign is done I’ll be home to you Yumi." "Just be careful I know that being a samurai is in your blood," she said to him hugging the man she cherishes. "Mark my words I’ll come back home okay." "I just don’t want to see you hurt again Ryu," she started to sob onto his chest. "Don’t worry with the guys with me I’ll be fine babe," replied Hazier comforting this wonderful woman his heart has grown to love. During the last six months Ryu Kalan and Yumi Kieto rekindled their love which they thought has been lost, these loving couple made up the moments they have lost during his absence. Now that everything seems to be perfect for the both of them these has happened, an order was received for him to report back with the Templar Battle Squadron for active duty. She knows that an Imperial Ace Battle Squadron will not be recalled unto active duty unless there is a high risk and high lethality missions that this Battle Squadron will partake in. "Okay I know they will not let you down," she said reassuring herself. "Besides they’re my brothers in arms I’ll be safe Yumi." Kissing Yumi Kieko’s lips one last time she opened her lips for him, allowing his tongue to explore and taste hers. Embracing her soft petite body lovingly he slid his hands down from behind reminiscing the lovely and pleasurable nights they have spent together. Hazier gently broke their loving embrace along with their kiss as he gather his bag and straps it onto his broad shoulders. "I love you Yumi and I never want to lose you again," he said to his beautiful fiancé. "I love you too Ryu," she replied watching the man whom her heart loves make his way towards the Space Port’s military transport. Hazier looked back and waved to her for the last time before boarding the transport, as he boards the space faring vehicle Yumi walked away towards her hover car wiping the tears that has fallen from her beautiful brown eyes. Warrant Officer 3rd class Iman Roku zipped closed his blue Imperial Ace Pilot’s uniform and exited the master bedroom he and his wife occupy. It would be some time before his scheduled flight to rejoin the Templar Battle Squadron and he wanted to spend all the precious moment he has with his loving and yet unique family. As soon that Caliber entered the living room a male Siberian tiger pounced on him followed by a female Siberian tiger. "Daddy, don’t go we’ll miss you," said Tiger. "Daddy why you have to go again?" asked Nala the female Siberian tiger. Caliber smiled as he was pinned to the ground by his loving Siberian tigers that he and his wife treated as their very own children. "Kids its daddy’s job that’s why I must go," Warrant Officer 3rd Class Iman Roku replied petting both the tiger’s head. "Okay Tiger and Nala get off daddy now before he misses his flight," said Caliber’s wife leading the two Siberian tigers off him. Caliber stood up and dusted his uniform as he smiled watching the pair of Siberian tigers sit and gazing their eyes sadly towards him. He made his way towards his loving family kissing the beautiful wife that he have and petting his Siberian tigers that he and his wife treated as their own children. "I’ll return and I promise you that okay Tiger and Nala?" The duo of Siberian tigers smiled at Caliber and licked his hands. "Be careful daddy okay," said Tiger. "We don’t want you hurt daddy," commented Nala. "I will kids don’t worry okay," replied Warrant Officer 3rd Class Iman Roku. "Okay daddy, be back soon," added Tiger. Turning his attention to his wonderful wife, he gave her one of his best smiles. "Babe, take care of the kids okay," his lips found hers again and they kissed for what seems to be an eternity. "I will honey just make sure you come back home safely," answered Caliber’s wife. He gathered his military issued bag and strapped it onto his shoulders, from their front door a couple of Imperial Defense Force personnel waited for him. As Caliber makes his way towards them he was escorted to a military hover car to be dropped off at the Space Port for his rejoining of the Templar Battle Squadron. Before he entered the rear passenger seat, Iman Roku looked back towards his loving family. Tears filled his wife’s eyes along with his two Siberian tigers. "I love you all and I’ll return," was his last words to them as he entered the hover car. The escort closed the rear passengers door and entered the front passenger’s compartment, as the vehicle sped off Caliber’s family looked on not knowing when Warrant Officer 3rd Class Iman Roku will return home. Until that time will arrive, all three of his family members keeps in their mind that he will fulfill his promise, to return home and resume his duties as her husband and to the Siberian tigers, as their father.

Chapter 3

The Campaign… The next day I have awaken from my sleep and immediately I have made my way towards my quarter’s bathroom. After a relaxing hot shower, shave, and hygiene of the mouth I then donned my Imperial Ace uniform and headed towards the exit. I can not shake from my memory the new orders that were given to me by Legion Commander Erik Van Drek to me the night before. I know it is a perilous task for my Templar Battle Squadron and myself. However, if fate will smile upon our honorable cause, our Dreadi nemesis will be forced to finally make peace with our beloved homeland, the Universal Empire of Etiratia. Making my way towards the mess hall I was surprised to finally see the rest of my Templar Battle Squadron, Mumbatik, Hazier, Caliber, along with Ghost saluted as soon that I was in their sights. I have saluted crisply in return and bowed respectfully to the men whom trusted me as their commander. "Sir it is great to see you again," greeted Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori. "The same can be said to you also Mumbatik." "It is an honor to serve with you again Captain," said Sergeant Major Ryu Kalan. "The honor is mine Hazier." "I heard you’re getting married sir," commented Warrant Officer Iman Roku. "Not at this time Caliber," replied I. "Fate has other plans and marriage has to be postponed." "The same for me too sir," sighed Mumbatik. "Let us focus on our new task so that we can return to our regular lives gentlemen," I have reminded my gallant members of the Templar Battle Squadron. "Why is it that they need us Captain?" I gazed at 1st Lt. Kai Kaneka and slightly smiled towards my second in command. "Because our services to our beloved Etiratia is needed, Ghost." "I see," Ghost sighed. "Come gentlemen, let us have breakfast and I will brief everyone of our new assignment afterwards," I motioned the 4 warriors of Etiratia towards the mess hall. After a hearty meal I and my 4 Etiratian samurai warriors stood up, place our chair in its appropriate place, and exited the mess hall. Leading my Templar Battle Squadron towards the briefing room of our Imperial Planetary Defense Force Headquarters, I motioned my men to take a seat. Making my way towards the podium I dimmed the lights utilizing the controls located to the podiums left and selected a few charts to be displayed via hologram screen. "This gentlemen is the Royal Dreadi Coalition," using the laser pointer to skim through a vast clusters of universes from the holographic display. "As we all know it is made out of 7 million universes and is ruled by 154 noble families. King Marion Dreadi seats as their overlord and is known as the king of kings." Mumbatik, Caliber, Ghost, and Hazier listened intently observing the layout of the map. "Here are the obstacle gentlemen," I then pointed out a satellite universal empire next to the Dreadi Coalition’s border. "The Universal Dukedom of Brienne boasts 4000 universes. In order for our Imperial Expeditionary Forces to gain a line of sight for a universal jump into Dreadi territory, our forces must pass through there first." "Captain, if I may point out," said Mumbatik. "Why not negotiate with the Briens sir?" "Quite simple Mumbatik, they do not believe that we can win this war," answered I. "After their attack on our border universes 4 months ago, the Dreadi decimated our legions and fleets to half their full strength and size. Because of that attack the Dreadi, Brienne, and mercenary forces destroyed 75% of our trading centers along with our agricultural centers. Zillions of our people died from the attack and starvation, it is by our Vin’s bold and daring plan to counter attack and raid the food stores of the Brienne and the Dreadi that has finally fed our starving people. That gave us time to rebuild half of what our homeland used to possess in trading centers and agricultural centers, by fate’s blessings our beloved Etiratia has stabilized economically. Now is our time to rectify this cowardly act by assaulting those responsible for this tragedy." I reminded them the surprise attack to our beloved homeland 2 months after the signing of a peace treaty with the Dreadi Coalition. Many of us resides in Etira our home world and many forgets the cold, cruel, and unjust reality of the ultra-verse outside Etira. Thus the news of the attack did not reach many of us and only those who are keen with the occurrences around Etiratia were aware of the great tragedy. Of the 7000 universe that Etiratia possesses, 2000 were the border universes and 3000 universes were affected by the tragedy. The rest of the Empire was unaffected, due to that fact, very few in the inner universes of Etiratia knew of the Dreadi’s cowardly attack. Once the news reached our Vin, he mobilized the remaining Imperial Defense Force units and counter attacked the enemy, in so doing the Royal Dreadi Force lost 80% of its force that attacked Etiratia and retreated back to their borders. Brienne stood alone and is ripe for our reprisal, however many Dreadi units stand poised to do battle with us once again. "What about the U.N.S. sir," Caliber commented. "Did they not sanction the Dreadi Coalition after their defeat in Saint Agatha by our Vin, his Myrmidons, Black Legions, and Black Dragons?" "They have done so Caliber. However, the U.N.S. is afraid of the Dreadi attacking them," replied I. "Once again Etiratia is alone in this war against the Dreadi Coalition." "What else is new," said Ghost. "Why bother working in cooperation with the spineless U.N.S. if they can’t even help us." "Ghost, the U.N.S. is our economic lifeline," explained I. "Without them Etiratia will not have an economy that keep our Imperial Defense Force functioning." "Sir what happened during the Dreadi attack?" asked Hazier. "How are our people in the border zone fairing now sir?" "When the Vin countered attack he drove off all our enemies from Etiratia’s territory. What I know from I.S.I.S. intelligence report is that our people are surviving slowly but surely, economically speaking our economy has been drastically reduced," replied I to Hazier. "Our economy could barely maintain the remaining forces our Imperial Defense Force possesses." "What is the plan sir?" Mumbatik asked with his cold and calculating eyes. "The plan is simple; our fleet will engage and destroy the enemy fleet in space, land our Legions on the strategic planets, and paved way for a clean line of sight to invade the Dreadi Coalition," explained I while pointing out the strategic planets that are located inside the Brien’s territory. "What’s our purpose in this campaign Captain?" Caliber intently asked. "Here is our main purpose and mission for this campaign Warrant Officer 3rd Class Iman Roku. We are to provide the Expeditionary Force a high lethality and high risk Battle Squadron, first we will be spearheading the invasion of planet Russ and eliminating as much of their defensive forces as we can. Second, we are to conduct free reign over the planet and destroy any military and militia forces belonging to the Dukedom of Brienne. Third, our Battle Squadron will engage any forces belonging to the Royal Dreadi Forces that might be present." "Sir is that all we have to do in this campaign?" asked Hazier. "If you meant the planet Russ Sergeant Major Ryu Kalan then that is negative. Planet Russ is the first of five planets that are to be invaded and spearheaded by us the members of the Templar Battle Squadron," replied I to Hazier. "One must remember that this will be a long and quite challenging campaign, our Imperial Defense Force has not invaded any Universal Empires for nearly 200 years." "As long that we have the equipment and weapons needed for this campaign sir," commented Caliber. "Affirmative Caliber, we do have new weaponries and defense systems to combat such numerous forces," said I with a slight smile. "Great, I always wanted to try out our new weapons sir," cheered Ghost the youngest and the hot headed 2nd in command of the Battle Squadron. "All of us will have that chance 1st Lt. Kai Kaneka; all of us will have that chance."

Chpater 4

Embarkation….               Three days passed since I left the planet. Having Ghost, Mumbatik, Hazier, and Caliber with me have assured my confidence of returning home. After boarding the inter-planetary drop ship Akuma, my odyssey has begun.               Strolling across the ship’s hallway heading towards the recreation deck, I cannot help but contemplate the events that will eventually unfold as our gallant warriors’ battle the enemies of our beloved Etiratia. As I enter the deck, my eyes scan the faces of my fellow soldiers; my heart throbbed as I know that many of our lives will be sacrificed for Etiratia’s rights to exist as a universal empire. Taking a seat at the bar stool I ordered a scotch on the rocks, hearing the news regarding this war; I turned my head towards the holographic screen.               Our Imperial Warships engaged the Brienne and Dreadi Galactic Battleships; the battle for the Universal Dukedom of Brienne begins. With one gulp I have finished my drink and stood up from the seat, I strides out of the deck and headed towards my quarters. Tomorrow will be an interesting day, for it is the first time that I will face the soldiers of Brienne.               The next day, my Templar Battle Squadron and I were summoned to the briefing room. Upon arriving, Colonel Van Drek was there to greet us.               “Gentlemen, have a seat,” beckoned our commanding officer to the empty seats in front of him.               As I sat down on one of the comfortable seat, the rest of my Battle Squadron fanned out around me.               “Today is the day your skills as Imperial Aces will be put to the test,” announced the Colonel, “for the invasion forces to land, we will need to eliminate their elite troops.”               “Who is this elite troops of the Brienne sir?” asked Warrant Officer Third Class Iman Roku, we all know him as Caliber.               “They are known as the Guardians of Brienne. They use the Teutonic Knight Battle Suits.”               “Another one of those who wish us defeated. Is it not right Colonel?” Master Sergeant Ryu Kalan remarked.               “Not necessarily Hazier,” answered Colonel Van Drek, “these guardians are among the most well trained elite force in the Universal Sphere of Man. They are quite deadly in their own rights.”               “No matter sir, we will see how good they are,” said Warrant Officer First Class Akad Mori.               “That we have to see Mumbatik, do not under estimate them.”               “Granted Colonel, all I can say is I cant wait to get a crack at them,” remarked First Lieutenant Kai Kaneka, within the armed forces of the universe, he is known as Ghost.               “Very well, when do we leave for this combat mission sir?” asked I to our commanding officer.               “This ship will arrive near the asteroid belt of the Brienne fortress planet of Ashurea within the hour. The planet is vital to the success of our invasion forces. From the asteroid belt, your Battle Squadron will make their way towards the planet, hopefully you can catch the Guardians of Brienne by surprise and defeat them before they can wreck havoc to our landing forces.”               “When will our forces land in the planet Colonel?”               “You have Twelve hours after disembarking from the ship gentlemen.”               “Consider it done Colonel,” I reassured our commander.               “Respect your foes gentlemen, in the past they were one of our gallant allies. Though the Dreadi have poisoned their ruler’s ears, does not mean that they can never be our allies again.”               “Yes sir, we respect all our foes no matter their skills,” replied Mumbatik.               “Very well, good luck gentlemen and dismissed,”               We stood at attention and executed a crisp salute towards our commander. Once he returned our salute, we exited the briefing room and headed towards the launch deck, where our Battle Suits are waiting for us.

Chapter 5

The Face of the Enemy…   Two hours have passes since we left the safety of our transport ship and the fleet of the Imperial Fleet, through the varied sizes of asteroids my Templar Battle Squadron and I maneuvered around them. Delicate maneuvering sap our strength as we focus ourselves carefully avoiding the asteroids and their slight gravity pull, though those gravity pulls were not as strong in comparison of a planet, it has affected our trajectory path, thus a quick reaction is needed to avoid crashing in an asteroid. Eight hours passed before we have reached the edge of our destination, Ashurea’s orbit is protected by four giant space fortresses that house the defenders of the Brienne. Slowing to a stop, I have activated my Archangel Protective Armor Package, the source of our new addition of offensive and defensive weaponry that the great Etiratian scientist developed for the defense of our home land. Mumbatik, Caliber, Hazier, and Ghost followed suit and formed up around my MBS-5 Battle Suit in a V formation. The members of my battle squadron activated their own Archangel Armor package and prepared for my orders. Knowing that we cannot just barge in with our weapons blazing in a suicide run, I have readied my reconnaissance drones inputting the data needed for the drones trajectory around the Space Fortresses, and finally launching them. The drones, sleek design allowed them to be nearly invisible to radar, and their propulsion system designed to be nearly invisible to thermal scanners, the heat sensors. With the advantages given by our advances in science, my drones closed in their distance and started to gather the vital data which I need. After I have received the data, I immediately shared the information among the members of the Templar Battle Squadron and with the data; I have quickly gathered the strategy needed to attack our targets. I opted to self-destruct my drones, activating to burst my drone’s acid tank, my reconnaissance drones were eaten by the acid, and what remains of it is nothing but a few coin size space debris. I have activated my communication system and broke radio silence though using the secured channel to communicate with my fellow Templar. "Gentlemen, this is the plan," I have began, "Mumbatik, take the farthest fortress, Hazier, the closest to our position." "Yes sir," replied the two Templar. "Ghost with me, we will perform a split maneuver against the last pair of fortresses," I finally turn to Caliber for his orders, "Caliber, support us." "Roger that Shaider," said Ghost. "Copy that Captain," Caliber replied. "Activate thermaloptichameleoline and commence operation!" By that order our thermaloptichameleoline takes their effect, rendering our five Battle Suits invisible from sight and to most sensors. Even their thermal sensor is guaranteed to fail from detecting our movements. We fan out to our designated position and prepared to unleash the hell that will never be forgotten by our foes. Checking my Battle Suit’s distance and the maximum range of my missiles, I have come to conclusion to push myself closer to my enemies. The closer I can get to my opponents without them being aware of my presence, the less likely for them to see the missiles before it is too late for them to save their lives. Once within near point blank range of my missiles, I have instinctively switched the nova armed self replication missile-carrier warheads and loosed ten waves at the unsuspecting Brienne Battle Suits whom were patrolling around their Space Fortress perimeter. Couple of dozens Brienne defenders were obliterated by my barrage of missiles and total surprise was achieved. The enemies were shock and chaos followed, since my Templar Battle Squadron is not visible nor registered in their sensors, our foes were driven with panic. Brienne beam cannons fired at every direction, hoping that we can be hit and from the communication systems I have registered that our opponents think that they are under assault by a whole army which in truth is only five of us against hundreds of them. "Templar Battle Squadron, open fire!" I then deactivated my thermaloptichameleoline camouflage and activated my multiple barreled beam rifle along with my shield, raising my arm which held my rifle, I then targeted an enemy Battle Suit close to my proximity. Gently squeezing the trigger, I let out a few quick burst. My target was hit at the mark, its chest and upper torso were torn apart from my rifle fire, within a few milliseconds the Brienne Battle Suit was engulf in a ball of flames, taking the pilot to the after life. Turning my head to see another near by target, I have locked onto another Battle Suit and zoomed towards its location with my rifle at the ready. Mumbatik weaved in and out of the Brienne’s beam cannon fire. He then readied both his missiles and atomizer cannon for action, sensing that the enemy Battle Suits are surrounding him, Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori let loose ten waves of uranium and plutonium armed missile-carrier self replication warhead missiles. Gaining a lock on the fortress he was assigned to engage, he squeezed the trigger firing the awesome atomizer cannon. The atomizer beam reached out and cut through Mumbatik’s target, atomizing a quarter of the great Space Fortress. At the same moment, a few dozen Brienne Battle Suits were thrown out of their trajectory as Mumbatik’s missiles found their mark. Screams of dying Brienne defenders were heard from the communication systems as their Battle Suits and its pilots imploded caused by the uranium and plutonium armed missiles. Mumbatik’s eyes focused on his targeted Space Fortress, true to his nature as a professional warrior, he has locked onto the fortress weapon’s depot. What remains of the Space Fortress was rocked by secondary explosions, within a few seconds nothing remains of Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori’s target but a heap of space debris. "Scratch one Space Fortress," beckons Mumbatik, he then searched for another target as waves of Brienne Battle Suits headed towards his location. Hazier quickly let loose a hundred space combat drones, he then directed the artificial intelligent drones towards the Brienne Battle Suits which were determined to intercept him. The combat drones, engaged their enemies utilizing missiles, beam cannons, and atomizer cannons, thus keeping the Brienne Battle Suits busy and stopping them from their intentions of hindering Hazier. As he close the distance between the Space Fortress and Master Sergeant Ryu Kalan, he activated the atomizer carrier missiles and fired five waves which in turn surrounded the Brienne Space Fortress. Though many were shot down by the defensive fire of the fortress beam cannons, enough survived to fire their cargo, the atomizer cannon. Beams of atomizer cannon fire cut the Space Fortress from all direction, akin to a ribbon cut to pieces, Hazier’s target was reduced to debris in a matter of seconds taking thousands of Brienne defenders which man the Space Fortress to the world of the non-living. "Space Fortress destroyed," reported Hazier over the communication channel. Master Sergeant Ryu Kalan activated his multiple barreled beam rifle and shield, his eyes fix on the sensors system, he flew towards what remains of the Brienne Battle Suit units around the destroyed Space Fortress. First Lieutenant Kai Kaneka left my side and headed towards his target, launching his multi-barreled beam cannon warhead missiles in ten waves he manages to stop the Brienne Battle Suits intent of intercepting him. Two dozen enemy Battle Suits were riddled by the unrelenting beam cannon fire which tore through the armor and the pilots inside, within a few milliseconds the Brienne defender’s exploded in massive fireballs lighting up the space where Ghost missiles targeted his opponents. Clear from any diversion, Ghost quickly fired five well aimed shots from his atomizer cannon. As the atomizer beam tore through the Brienne Space Fortress, each time it was hit a large section of the fortress was atomized. By the time the fifth shot found its mark, nothing remains of the Space Fortress but a field of debris that managed to be torn out from it by the atomizer blast. "Target eliminated sir," reported First Lieutenant Kai Kaneka, as he quickly joined me in my location. I finished off another Brienne Battle Suit utilizing my beam rifle, closing my distance from the last surviving Space Fortress. I armed my super nova missiles. Hearing the target lock tone, I then fired my missiles in ten waves which eagerly darted out of their launchers towards my target. Half of my missiles were destroyed by the desperate hail of beam cannon fire, however, enough missiles survived to finish the last remaining Space Fortress. As the super nova warhead missiles found their mark, large explosions engulf the remaining Space Fortress, after dozens of explosions subsides, the Brienne Space Fortress ceased to exist. Only debris and scrap metal remains that can be tracked by my sensors. "Operation is a success! All four enemy Space Fortresses neutralized," I have informed our main fleet. "Well done Templar Battle Squadron," answered our commanding officer, "Planet Russ has been invaded successfully. The invasion fleet is on their way to commence the invasion Captain Doji Kurohito. The fleet will arrive there no longer than fifteen minutes." "Copy that sir," I have replied, "we will hold off the enemy until the fleet arrive Legion Commander." "I know you will Shaider," replied Legion Commander Erik Van Drek. The Brienne military was enraged by such loses that they have sent a pair of battle cruisers against us. Unknown to them Warrant Officer Third Class Iman Roku is ready for them. "Shaider, two enemy cruisers coming in your way," warned Caliber, "permission to engage them." "Permission granted Caliber." A smile can be seen on his face as he nodded his approval and maneuvered to engage the Brienne Battle Cruisers. Caliber utilized the replication matrix of his MBS-1 Battle Suit and set up a dozen of combat destroyer drones which have enough weaponry to engage and even destroy a capital ship such as battle cruisers. To deal with combat patrols and scouts of the cruisers, Warrant Officer Third Class Iman Roku launched twenty hyper sonic combat drones that far exceeds our speed in flight. The battle cruisers finally appeared and in front of them fifty Battle Suits made out of twenty five scouts and twenty five heavily armed type of Battle Suits. Grateful for the thermaloptichameleoline camouflage for without them we will never have the edge to strike first by achieving surprise through stealth, the drones along with Caliber’s Battle Suit have the camouflage activated rendering them invisible to the enemy’s sensors. The hyper sonic combat drones greeted the scouts and heavy battle suits with a two wave’s barrage of missiles. Briennes war machines exploded as the missiles found their mark, though there were some survivors from the initial barrage. They never have the time to recoup from the attack as Caliber’s multi barreled rifle riddled them one by one, at the same moment his missiles streaked out of their launchers towards the Brienne survivors. A lone survivor emerge as the Brienne’s comrades in arms exploded around the heavy battle suit, immediately Caliber activated his battle batan and threw it at the last Brienne Battle Suit. The battle batan sliced its opponent in half, from the mid torso, instantly sending the pilot to the land of the deceased. During the quick but violent skirmish, Caliber’s combat destroyer drones launched their atomizer armed missiles against the Brienne Battle Cruisers. Another wave of missiles toward the Brienne’s capital ships as the combat destroyer drones utilized their electronic counter measures, jamming the sensors of the Battle Cruisers. The missiles finally unleashed their deadly warhead towards the enemy, atomizer beams streaked at the Brienne Battle Cruisers, as it hit the shields. The damage was so massive that the shield broke after the area was hit at least five times by the atomizer beam cannon missiles. Caliber’s combat destroyer drones moved in for the coup de grace, the second wave of missiles screened the drones maneuver, as the secondary wave of missiles found their mark, the Battle Cruisers began to take damage. Charging their matter/anti-matter matrix, both the regular combat drones and combat destroyer drones began their suicide run towards the Battle Cruisers. As the drones’ zigzags around any remaining beam cannon fire that the cruisers can dish out, the drones still manage to find their mark and crash. Once the drones impacted onto a Battle Cruiser’s hull, the drone self-destruct and explode with the same power of over a hundred nova bombs. With every explosion, the mighty Brienne Battle Cruisers is reduced to a debris field, and with every explosion the enemy capital ships losses their brave crew. Warrant Officer Third Class Iman Roku takes a last look at the dying Battle Cruisers and with the last explosion that doomed the Brienne’s capital ships, he finally set out a coordinates to rejoin his fellow Templar Battle Squadron. "Enemy destroyed." "Great job Caliber," replied I. The fight to destroy the Space Fortresses has finished, now came the second phase of the battle.

Chapter 6

Holding by a thread….                 The Brienne forces countered by sending in their most elite pilots, twenty-five Knights battle suits exited the planet’s atmosphere to intercept my battle squadron.               “Here they come,” I have warned my men, “Watch your backs and you know what to do Templar Battle Squadron.”               “Copy that sir,” is the reply from my four brave warriors.               Locking on at the nearest enemy battle suit, I let loose a few waves of hyper-velocity nova warhead missiles. Though my foe launched a counter-measure barrage, enough missiles survived to hit their mark. My target was engulfed into a ball of flames disappearing from sight. A second Brienne elite battle suit came into the middle of my cross hairs. Aiming my beam rifle, I let out a steady barrage of energy fire that riddled my foe, finding their mark at the fusion reactor and thus causing a chain reaction that explodes the Knight Battle Suit sending its pilot to the afterlife. A quick turn to the left, another Brienne defender found itself under my cross hair, I pressed the trigger for my atomizer cannon and immediately the atomizer blast contacted with the Brienne battle suit atomizing it into oblivion. Gazing at my sensors, I manage to catch a glimpse at my fellow Etiratian warriors as they engaged their targets in turn.               Hazier quickly activated two of his beam rifles, a Brienne battle suit appeared below him, and in front of him a Knight Battle Suit also emerged with the intent of killing the Etiratian soldier. Aiming his beam rifles simultaneously, Master Sergeant Ryu Kalan let out a deadly hail of energy fire, consuming both of his targets with energy blast. The riddled Brienne battle suits exploded, yielding to the overwhelming firepower of Haizer’s beam rifles. Another pair of battle suits attempted a scissor maneuver against Hazier, the Etiratian samurai warrior stood his ground and launched half a dozen waves of hyper-velocity plutonium-uranium round warheads. Immediately the two Brienne pilots panicked and tried to counter Hazier’s attack with a counter-measure missile barrage. Again the results was the same, though some of the Etiratian missiles were intercepted, enough breached the counter-measure barrage to home into their targets. As the missiles hit their mark, the communications channel became flooded with the agonizing screams of the pilots suffering from internal decay. The plutonium-uranium warhead did their work as the cells in the sub-atomic level of the Brienne pilots were imploded, creating a mini-nuclear blast in a cellular level. Hazier hardened his heart as he hears the effects of his attack, killing his targeted pilots in the most painful way possible. Another Knight Battle Suit charged towards Hazier’s position, with a quick instinctive reaction, Master Sergeant Ryu Kalan brought bare his atomizer cannon. Within point blank range, Hazier opened fire the atomizer weapon engulfing his foe with atomizer energy and thus atomizing the unfortunate pilot.               Ghost targeted the nearest enemy battle suit and riddled it with his beam rifle fire. Energy blast tore through the Brienne’s armor exposing the fusion reactor and thus destroying it causing a chain reaction that engulfs his foe into a massive explosion. 1st Lieutenant Kai Kaneka found two more Knight Battle Suit headed towards him, he quickly let loose six waves of thermaloptic camouflage missiles. Ghost’s foes did not notice his barrage of missiles since their sensors have not picked them up in time, it was too late when their sensors warned them of the impending barrage of missile fire. A pair of fire balls bloomed in the orbit of the Brienne planet, as Ghost’s missiles found their mark causing havoc, destruction, and death to his targeted foes. Another Brienne defender towards Ghost, the Etiratian samurai aimed his atomizer cannon and loosed the devastating firepower of the atomizer weapon. The Knight Battle Suit was atomized in an instant, too late to react at such a well timed nearly point blank ranged attack. Another Brienne soldier challenged Ghost, with a broad sword and rectangular shield the Knight Battle Suit zigzags towards the Etiratian warrior. Ghost activated his fission bladed naginata and charged straight towards his foe, activating the thermaloptichameleoline camouflage. Ghost became invisible to his foe, at the last moment, 1st Lieutenant Kai Kaneka deactivated his camouflage in front of his foe causing surprise to the Brienne pilot. Activating his thrusters upward, Ghost zoomed above his foe stabbing the Knight Battle Suit’s neck, his fission blade cutting through the armor and steel as if it was a heated knife against butter. Ghost flipped and positioned himself behind his shocked and mortally wounded foe, with a hundred and eighty degrees spin, Ghost finished the movement by slashing at his enemy’s neck decapitating the Brienne battle suit and the pilot along with it.               Caliber zoomed towards the nearest pair of Brienne battle suits, firing a few waves of multiple-barreled beam cannon warhead missiles towards them. Warrant Officer Third Class Iman Roku’s missiles surrounded his foes raining death at the pair of Brienne battle suits. Deadly hail of energy blast found their mark, riddling the battle suits of the Brienne with energy fire. The two Knight Battle Suits wobbled as it was hit by the energy blast from all direction, within a few moments a pair of explosions engulfs both the Brienne battle suits. Another Brienne battle suit emerged from his right and another in front of him, activating his beam cannon, Caliber aimed at the battle suit to his right and with the atomizer cannon he locked on towards the foe in front. Gently Warrant Officer Third Class Iman Roku gently squeezed the trigger, the awesome atomizer cannon let out a blast while Caliber’s beam rifle spitted out a barrage of energy fire. The atomizer blast found its mark and thus atomizing the Knight Battle Suit while another was riddled with energy fire exploding into a massive fire ball. One last Brienne battle suit made its way to intercept the Etiratian soldier, activating his battle batan, Caliber met his foe head on. The Knight Battle Armor armed with a claymore sword hack its weapon against Caliber, with a swift movement of his wrist, the battle batan parried the blow and a swift reverse movement of his wrist, Caliber’s battle batan sliced through the Brienne’s battle suit’s abdomen. Warrant Officer Third Class Iman Roku finished off his foe with an upward slash at the middle of his foe’s body, the Knight Battle Suit was sliced in four, from the vertical slash and the horizontal slice. Caliber moved onward seeking for another foe to engage.               Mumbatik activated both multiple barreled beam rifles and sets his cross hairs at two Brienne battle suits. A hail of energy fire rained at the pair of Knight Battle Suits, a matter of milliseconds later, the two Brienne battle suits exploded as their fusion reactor was destroyed and thus causing a chain reaction which destroyed the pair of battle suits. Activating his atomizer cannon, he locked on to another Knight Battle Suit and fired. The atomizer blast found its target, thus atomizing his target from this existence to the world of the departed. Another pair of Knight Battle Suits closed in towards Mumbatik’s position, activating his fission bladed Kris serrated sword and Barong short dagger he readied himself for the upcoming close quarter battle. Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori streaked towards his nearest foe which is armed with a broad sword and axe, his foe strikes first which he countered utilizing Barong short dagger to block the sword and his Kris serrated sword blocking the axe blow. With an inward horizontal slash, Mumbatik tore through his foe’s chest ending his movement with a scissor slash at his opponent’s neck, decapitating the Brienne pilot and its battle suit. Meeting his second foe armed with a claymore sword, Mumbatik sides to the left avoiding a vertical slash from the Knight Battle Suit’s claymore. Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori quickly slashed his foe’s right leg, taking it off completely. Mumbatik then turned a hundred and eighty degrees to his left and reverse handed stabbed the Knight Battle Suit’s abdomen, he then finished ended his movement with another hundred eighty degree turn to his right and utilized his Kris serrated sword slicing off his opponent’s head. After defeating his foe, Mumbatik rejoined his fellow Etiratian warriors.               My last foe came after me with such dedication and zeal which nearly overtook me. With a quick turn to the left and quick side at the same direction, I allowed my foe to miss me completely from its own claymore sword’s vertical downward slash. I then activated my fission bladed katana sword and continued the duel with my foe. My foe made the first move, striking at me with his claymore sword with a downward arc slash from right to left. With a swift movement I countered blocking his blow with an upward arc of my katana’s blade, I quickly followed it up with a horizontal slice towards my foe’s neck, as the fission blade cuts its way towards the neck I then ended the movement with a thrust of my katana towards my opponent’s heart, thus ending the duel and my foe’s life.               Gazing at my sensors, an armada of Brienne battle suits has finally scrambled in an attempt to wipe out my gallant Templar Battle Squadron. Knowing that this will take place I loaded my missile launchers with hyper-velocity thermaloptic camouflage mini-missile warhead, all are tipped with a nova warhead in each miniature missiles. I then switched on my communications system allowing me to communicate with my battle squadron and the rest of the Etiratian invading force.               “Shaider to Templar Battle Squadron, here they come,” I’ve warned my gallant men. “Form up on me and prepare to saturate the area with missile fire.”               “Roger that Shaider,” replied all four of my men.               “Shaider to Etiratian invasion force, once we let loose our missiles swarm in towards the planet.”               “Copy that Shaider,” replied the invasion force commander. “We appreciate what you’re doing Captain Kurohito.”               One by one Ghost, Mumbatik, Hazier, and Caliber formed up on me, arming their missile launchers with the same armament that I have, all of us locked on to the armada that was about to greet us.               “Templar Battle Squadron, fire missiles!”               By that order all five of our battle suits let loose ten waves of missiles which travels faster and far more difficult to detect than any other missiles. Within a few seconds one fourth of our foes were obliterated, causing panic at the stricken Brienne defenders.               “Load up atomizer cannon warheads,” I’ve instructed my men.               As much as possible we must destroy as many of our foes as we can for it will determine the fate of this invasion once that the invasion force lands.               “Templar Battle Squadron, fire missiles!”               The atomizer cannon armed missiles streaked towards the Brienne armada surrounding them. Once the atomizer fired at all directions, many of our foes were atomized, havoc ensued and over half of the Brienne armada lost its numbers. Though there are many which the Brienne lost against my Templar Battle Squadron, the enemy is determined to finish us off once and for all. Though over half of their numbers are gone, they still possess significant numbers which I know for sure will eventually wipe out my battle squadron.               “Aim atomizer cannon,” as my orders were heard, all five atomizer cannons were trained at the mass of Brienne battle suits still bent in engaging and obliterating us.               “Atomizer cannon, fire!”               Five streams of deadly beam streaked towards our enemy’s position, as they smashed through the Brienne armada many more were instantly atomized causing substantial loss in numbers, moral, and will of the Brienne to carry out their defense of their territory.               “Invasion force attack!”               The communication system became flooded with orders and situational report as the main Etiratian landing force finally arrived, thousands of landing craft disengaged their thermaloptic camouflage and headed straight towards the planet’s atmosphere. While other battle suits, mechamorphosised capable combat vehicles, and warships take over the battle.               A sigh of relief escaped from me for I know that this day my Templar Battle Squadron and I survived another battle even if the odds are against us. With a slight smile, I activated my communication system once again.               “Shaider to the Templar Battle Squadron,” I called the brave members of my unit. “Let’s go home.”               “Copy that sir,” happily replied my four gallant members.               Finally, the landing of our ground forces commenced. I cannot help but contemplate that soon, battles will be fought by my Templars and I that will decide the fate of this beautiful planet of Ashurea.

Chapter 7

Servants of the Etiratia…               Within the newly built Theatre Command Headquarters my Templar Battle Squadron and I are assigned to secure the lines of communication and supplies between H.Q. and the frontline units. A week has passed and none of us have seen action thus far, for some like Caliber, Ghost, and Hazier, they enjoy this time of peace and routine patrols. However, for a warrior like Mumbatik it does not suit him well. Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori is a born fighter, no doubt that conflicts and combat is what he yearns in his blood, then again there is another side of him that he does not show to many. That is the side of a man who is in love with a woman whom he wanted to share his life with. Though our duties limits us of what we can do in situations such as now, it is still the hope and dream of a normal life that drives many of us to continue this conflict to earn the right of coming home to our loved ones.               I made my way towards the recreation center where I am certain to find most of my men. As I enter no doubt Hazier and Mumbatik is present playing pool among the pool tables, with a glance to the communication center I found the last pair of my men. Ghost I found sitting at a communication booth and talking to his fiancée, Rose Burns a beautiful ebony reporter whom we have met since our days in the planet Aria. Finally, Caliber talking to his wife and the two genetically altered Siberian tigers whom the married couple adopted as their own children. I passed them and leave them be for this is the moment they can spare to be in touch with their loved ones, my aim is to speak with Mumbatik.               “Mumbatik,” I called out the Chief Warrant Officer’s call sign.               “Yes sir Captain.”               He stood at attention and saluted followed by Hazier, I returned their salute.               “At ease,” with those words the two relaxed and waited for what I have to say.               “Akad, I have a job for you,” I began, “I know how much you are yearning for some action. I believe you are the right man for this assignment.”               “What is it Captain?”               Both men look at each other with a dry smile, since the time these men served under me, I can predict what they are contemplating and planning in the field.               “Unfortunately Hazier this is a solo mission,” though I hate delivering such news of robbing another person an opportunity to be in combat, however, it must be done.               “I understand sir,” replied Master Sergeant Ryu Kalan whom is well known under the call sign Hazier.               “Well Captain what kind of a mission do you have for me?”               “There is a village near no man’s land where many mercenaries and bandits gather. I wanted you to obtain intelligence if there are any mercenary units being recruited to the Briennes side.”               “I see what you mean sir,” Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori scratched his head and smiled. “When do I leave?”               “Immediately,” answered I in return.               Two hours passed since Mumbatik left the Headquarters on his solo reconnaissance mission, he arrived at the designated village and meticulously observed the place. Both of us are surprised with the data he is feeding our intelligence personnel, many of the mercenaries here are nothing more but a bunch of bandits that my battle squadron and I have faced back in the planet Aria. Another doze unexpected information shocked us, many of the bandits, a majority of them have heard of the Templar Battle Squadron, our exploits against such bandits were nearly legendary stories that is heard among the taverns, and also what the Templar Battle Squadron have done to turn the tide against the Dreadi invaders.               “I can’t believe we are a legend with this unemployed wannabe soldier’s sir,” Mumbatik commented via the communication network.               “I share your shock as well Mumbatik.”               “I’m amazed.”               Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori entered a tavern called Evil Island; he walked towards an empty table and sat down, taking off his helmet and setting it aside on the table. Ordering a shot of whiskey, he then observed the place he is in. A bandit started to cause problems in the place, wearing a combat suit known as Holy Dragon, the ignorant pilot started to brag about the powers his combat suit can do. Witnessing such a nuisance, Mumbatik sighed and shakes his head at such unwanted behavior. Many are tolerating such a nuisance due to facts of the bandit’s weaponry, however many of the young women in the tavern started their voice of protest while the male bandits do nothing but sit idle to commit themselves in any action.               “Captain I have a question to ask,” Mumbatik said to me.               “Anything you can ask Akad.”               “There is this idiot here who’s acting like a moron. Can I take him out sir?”               “For the good of many and the innocents Mumbatik, you may commence.”               “Thank you sir,” replied Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori.               Mumbatik stood up and approached the bandit in his Holy Dragon suit. He then drank his shot of whiskey in one gulp and stared at the bandit.               “What are you, a child or a wannabe warrior?” Mumbatik insulted the bandit.               Many more insults were shouted towards the Holy Dragon suited bandit, not knowing whom he is facing, the ignorant bandit fling his tail towards Mumbatik. In a split second, the tail was slashed by Mumbatik’s fission Kris sword. Donning his helmet, Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori pointed the sword at his adversary.               “Is that all you got kid?”               “You haven’t seen nothing yet moron,” replied the Holy Dragon bandit.               “You’re the moron,” a woman’s voice called out. “Don’t you know who you’re facing? That’s Mumbatik, the Grim Reaper of the Templar Battle Squadron.”               There was a pause when finally the majority of those inside the Evil Island recognize the man in the red MBS-5 Battle Suit. Throughout the battle of Aria, there is one whom is most feared for his talent in taking peoples lives. The man with no emotion, compassion, or remorse, the man clad in a red Battle Suit fighting for the Etiratian Emperor and is a member of the most dreaded Battle Squadron in the whole universe. He is known by many names, the Grim Reaper, Death, Blood Bath, the Red Destruction, and finally as Mumbatik.               “I’m out of here,” the Holy Dragon suit bandit feared for his life.   Knowing that death has finally come his way started to make his way out of the tavern.  Holy Dragon stumbled to the exit followed closely by Mumbatik.   “What’s wrong kid?” taunted Mumbatik, “You never know that death will finally come for you?”   Holy Dragon began to flee from Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori, though it was a wise decision, it was too late. Mumbatik launched two waves of Thermaloptichameleoline atomizer platform missiles which quickly, silently, and unseen by neither sight nor any optic sensors, surrounded the Holy Dragon suit. The bandit was consumed by the atomizer blast as it was released towards him at all sides, sending the pilot to the afterlife.   “Bye-bye kid,” remarked Mumbatik, “You couldn’t defend.”   Everyone in the tavern got out and awed in amazement, many of them only heard of the exploits performed by the Templar Battle Squadron. This day the people around the village finally witnessed what a Templar can do against its enemies and the enemies of justice. The code of honor which is followed by Etiratian warriors passed by word of mouth and many nod their head of approval of what an Etiratian samurai is, he is a servant of the people and the servant of Etiratia.   The woman stepped forward and smiled at Mumbatik, he undone his helmet and smiled in return.   “If you need any help feel free to ask,” he said to her.   “I am Tae the owner of Evil Island and I’m thankful for your offer.”   “I’m Mumbatik of the Templar Battle Squadron of Etiratia.”   “I know who you are Mumbatik,” her smile widened and gestured him to return into the tavern.   Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori obliged by the gesture and re-entered the Evil Island tavern. Tae offered a seat which he took and she in turn seated in front of him.   “The Templar and its exploits are known by everyone from here all the way to Earth Mumbatik,” explained the owner of Evil Island.   “I would never have dreamed of it nor would any of us in the Battle Squadron,” replied he, “For us it is our service to the Emperor of Etiratia that we do what we have done and to do what is right according to our code.”   “Ah yes, the code of Bushido that is known by almost everyone and that is the reason why your kind are very popular among all the Galactic Empires of the Universe.”   “Thanks I’m flattered to know that.”   “It is not flattery dear friend but mere facts,” Tae rebutted, “You see that very code is what many of the warriors for hire tries to follow. Of course it is hard since no one of them ever grew up being taught by that code, what you see are the twisted versions of it. Some are good and some are bad.”   “Why follow it if they don’t know anything about the code?”   “They wanted to be known, to become famous with the girls and with everyone. To be as famous as the Templars have become,” Tae replied.   “It is not fame that we seek Tae.”   “How noble your kind is Mumbatik, that is really admirable,” she said with a smile, “You have to remember the reality outside of Etiratia, many wanted to be famous out of greed, power, and the wealth it brings.”   “I appreciate this conversation Tae. I really learned many things from our discussion.”   “If it is the Brienne that you are looking for,” she said gaining Mumbatik’s attention even more, “They are not far behind.”   “What do you mean Tae?”   “There are spies here and those spies gained information and recruits for both the Brienne and the Dreadi. Soon Mumbatik the Dreadi will come and your fellow Etiratians will have to face a harder enemy than you are now facing.”   “Why are you willing to help us?” questioned Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori, “We invaded your world and is on the way to destroy this Dukedom.”   “Us Brienne wanted peace but it’s not possible because of the Dreadi Mumbatik,” replied the woman, “Since our great Galactic Dukedom was trapped in a treaty with the Dreadi Coalition, our nobles tried in vain to get our freedom back. But those who refused were executed or gone missing by the Dreadi. Those who remain in power are nothing more but the puppets of the Dreadi.”   “You want us the warriors of Etiratia to free your people from the yoke of the Dreadis?”   “Yes, we do but your people must not absorb our territories as a conquering force.”   “Trust me the last thing we want is new territories Tae. Etiratia have many worlds that can sustain our population and the resources needed for our survival.”   “If that’s the case then I’m sure our own people will soon grow tired of this war brought down to us by the Dreadis and dethrone our current Duke,” responded Tae.   “Don’t your people like the ruler of this Dukedom?”   “No we don’t he is a usurper and the pretender of the throne. Our true Duke has been exiled to Earth and cannot return to us by the threat of execution.” “I’ll let my superiors know of this and I am sure that the Emperor will allow the true Duke of Brienne to rule after this conflict is over.”   “I hope so Mumbatik,” she said to him, gently patting his hands.   The return trip back to H.Q. is uneventful. Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori hastily yet carefully wrote his intelligence report and submitted it through the Intelligence Department. With the new knowledge learned of Briennes own political situation, it is now necessary to end the war by wearing out the Brienne military and forcing an insurrection against the Dreadi sponsored Duke of Brienne.   I walked towards the quarters reserved for my Templar Battle Squadron and caught a glimpse of Mumbatik alone with his thoughts. I tapped the opened door twice to have his attention and entered when he motioned me inside as he himself stood up.   “Doji, what do you think of this war between us and the Brienne? Do you ever think that our Emperor will grant the people of the lands their freedom back?”   “That is a difficult question to answer Akad,” replied I, “However, we must not forget that even the Emperor Vin follows our code and with the information you have acquired it will be put into use for the benefit of both our Empire and the people of Brienne.”   “My parents disowned me when I immigrated here Doji,” Mumbatik confessed. “But I never regretted being a servant of our Empire and our Emperor. What I have now is being awarded to me through my service for our beloved homeland.”   “It is hard to imagine how you could cope with having no clan Akad. However, we are all your clan and from the records I have read regarding your faithful service to the Emperor Vin, our Emperor rewarded you well. I’m surprise you never ended your service with the Defense Force and pursue a civilian life.”   “That I owe too much to the Emperor and to Etiratia,” replied Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori.   “You are among the best servant of our people and of our Emperor Akad,” commented I to Mumbatik, “All of us admire that Akad and you are not alone. Besides the Emperor himself, all of us who now resides in Etiratia were once an immigrant just as you have. My ancestors chose Etiratia for its ties with their culture back on Earth.   “I came from the Filipino culture Doji and Mori is a name I chose when I was granted my citizenship of Etiratia.”   “Still, the Filipino is a proud warrior race too Akad.”   “Thank you sir,” replied my Chief Warrant Officer. After my conversation with Mumbatik, I headed towards the command center. There I discovered that our Legion Commander wanted to have a word with me. I gladly obliged and followed Erik Van Drek to his office.   “Doji, I know you’re getting a little bored here,” said our Legion Commander, “But something is a mist. I don’t believe that the Brienne can be defeated so easily even if there are discontent among their ranks.”   “What would you suggest that our forces should do sir?”   “I’ll go ahead and flood the no man’s land with our own intelligence operative and see what they can dig up. In the mean time I need you to patrol around the same vicinity as Mumbatik did. A show of force is needed Shaider and you’re the man that I know who is up for the job.”   “What is my objective sir?”   “Take out those who challenge our authority who is not of the Brienne or Dreadi military.”   A slight smile escapes my lips, knowing that there are many bandits, mercenaries, and those who are imitators of true warriors that are present in the no man’s land. The unknown factor is will any of them be skillful enough to challenge any skillful warriors of Etiratia. It has happened before during the battle for the planet Aria. However, due to the exploits my Templar Battle Squadron and I have done and the casualties that they suffered against us, it has proven them wrong to challenge the skills of any Etiratian samurai.   “I shall gladly perform my duty sir,” I saluted crisply and once the Legion Commander returned my salute, I have executed an about face and exited his office.   Recalling how Mumbatik faced his opponent, I have made a decision to harness the Archangel Protective Armor Package onto my MBS-5 Battle Suit. The extra performance, firepower, and survival capability can come in handy if ever I face someone who has great capability. Remembering the recent reports of how mercenaries are now arming themselves after the debacle during the battle of Aria, many are now using prototype weaponry in a hope of defeating a pilot utilizing an Etiratian style Battle Suit. In my mind I have faith in the training that I and the rest of my fellow Etiratian samurai have undergone through and that is the edge warriors of Etiratia have in advantage against any other warriors in the known universe.               After my arrival at the flight hangar, I have gone through the pre-launch check making sure that my Battle Suit is in perfect combat condition. Donning on the MBS-5 Battle Suit and locking the joints in place, I commence the mission given to me by the Legion Commander. Leaving the ground and streaking towards the clear sky, I marvel at the sight of a beautiful country side. From afar it is hard to imagine that a war is raging and men are losing their life for the control of this planet, vectoring towards no man’s land. I have nothing much to do but enjoy the flight and the beautiful sight I am seeing.               After arriving at my destination, I immediately landed and observed my surroundings. Many of the inhabitants cannot help but gaze upon my battle suit and chatter among themselves in a low voice. Obviously Mumbatik had already made a significant impact among the people of this area.               “Shaider to base,” I have reporter through my communication link, “I have arrived at the designated point.”               “Copy that Shaider,” was the reply, “Proceed with caution.”               “Understood.”               I have walked passed several taverns, inns, and pubs. However, nothing has caught my interest. Passing through the last tavern, I have noticed one that simply catches my interest. Kagome’s Room is what the tavern is named. Cautiously I entered and made my way towards an empty seat in the far corner. Taking off my helmet and setting it aside, I fished for a cigarette with my right hand while my right hand finds the lighter. Placing the cigarette onto my mouth, the lighter ignited the flame the lights up my favorite flavor of cigarettes.               I signaled for the waiter as a plum of smoke exited my nostrils and mouth.               “What can I get for you stranger?”               The waiter turned out to be a waitress who also runs this very tavern.               “Sake please,” I have ordered, “Cold sake.”               “Coming right up stranger.”               My eyes scan around and observe those who are in this tavern with me. I noticed a man known as Himura Kateoshi in his mockery of Etiratian Samurai armor; he himself wore a copy of a samurai style battle suit. Unlike a true samurai, this man behaved badly and has made so many threats towards the mercenary men of the tavern.               “Here is your order stranger,” the proprietress of the tavern handed me the bottle of cold sake and a cup.               As I poured myself a serving of sake, i had enough of the braggarts rumbling.               “You better be careful of what you wish for Himura,” I have warned the man as I stood up and walked towards his general direction. .               “Prove it with action Shaider,” is his reply.               “Final warning,” I have stated to him, “I will not repeat myself.”               Himura Kateoshi rushed towards me in a speed faster than most battle suits can move. Unknown to him that the reflex matrix of a MBS-5 Battle Suit with an Archangel Protective Armor is faster than a blink of an eye. Quickly I have aimed and fired my atomizer cannon at point blank range towards Himura’s position. The destructive energy blasts overtook him and have welcomed him to the afterlife.               “Have I not warned you of your impending demise,” I told my fallen foe.               From my rear I have sense a sudden movement alerting my senses, with the assistance of the reflex matrix I quickly turned in time to react at my new foe. A battle suit with the exact replica of Himura has tried to catch me by surprise by rushing towards me from the rear with his katana sword. Again the training, experience, and skills I have received as an Etiratian Samurai has proven its worth. Aiming the atomizer cannon at my attacker the other Himura, a deadly blast met my opponent before he can even be within the sword’s striking range. Two opponents taken out in one day is enough blood for me, I have returned to my table and gulped the cup of sake. Leaving a universal credit currency on the table I have made my way towards the exit and took to the air.               “Shaider to base,” I have said over the communication network. “I have taken out two bandits and their designation is a Himura Kateoshi armor.   “Copy that Shaider. Well done!”   “I am heading home,” setting my coordinates towards our home base, I let the automatic piloting system take over and enjoy the scene as I begin my return journey.

Chapter 8

Challenges of War…               A new day begins after I have returned to base and rested in my quarters. I have enough time to finally use the Inter-Galactic Communication Systems. Calling my home in Etira the Empire's capital planet, I was hoping that I would be able to have a good conversation with the woman I have known to love. Terresita Campbell answered the call and greeted me with one of her heart warming smile.               "Hello honey how is work at the hospital?"               "Great, I actually enjoy it here in your home planet," she replied.               "I am glad that you do."               "Doji, when can you come home and stop fighting? I know how many people have sacrificed their lives in this war. Don't you think its time to step down and let the younger Etiratians fight this war?"               "If I do, who will lead the Templar Battle Squadron?"                         "I'm pretty sure that there are others who can do your job Doji."               "That is not the point."               "Then what is the point?"               "These men are like brothers to me."               "You belong here with me Doji. You belong here at home. Your services with the Imperial Defense Force are great but it is time that you settle down with me and start a family."               At that point I do not know what to tell her. Then I remembered my oath as a samurai warrior for our homeland, our people, and the Emperor.               I am a samurai of Etiratia. I wil enforce and follow the laws of the Universal Empire of Etiratia.             I am a samurai of Etiratia. With all my strenght I will fight for the freedom and Independence of our homeland.             I am a samurai of Etiratia. I will uphold the law of the Imperial Defense Force in time of peace and in time of war.             I am a samurai of Etiratia. I will live and die in a true spirit of an Etiratian. By duty, courage, loyalty, and honor in the service of the homeland.             In all of his, I whole heartedly give my life, skills, and honor in the service of Etiratia.               "I cannot betray my honor honey. I gave my oath of honor for the service of the homeland and now they need me more at this time than any other. I sincerely hope you understand that. You have my love, my heart, and my answer in regards of resigning from the Imperial Defense Force."               "Oh honey," she sighed in hopeless surrender, "What do I do with you?"               "Have faith that all will be well honey."               "Alright, I will. Just remember that I love you."               "I love you also Terresita."               I hang up the receiver set and slowly stood up, making my way towards the exit I pray that this war can end soon and that it is by fate that I can return home alive.               Hazier entered the communication center and quickly dialed the number that will lead to his beloved Yumi.               "Hey there soldier," Yumi Kieto greeted.               "Hey there miss sexy."               She giggled at his comment and both started to laugh.               "Finally you called."               "We're a bit busy here."               "I can tell that just by watching the news."                         "I'm alive aren't I?"               "Stop joking around like that Ryu. You and your cockiness can get you in trouble."               "Well it's true that I'm alive isn't it?"               "Yeah I guess you're right."               "So what have you been doing lately babe?"               "I just received your mail yesterday and I have developed the digital films you've sent me. Is it really like that over there? I mean the surrounding countryside is gorgeous. No one can ever suspect that a war is being fought there."               "Russ is a very beautiful planet Yumi. It is just a shame that a war have to be fought here," answered Sergeant Major Ryu Kalan who is known to us as Hazier.               "I just want you to be careful Ryu," she begged him.               "I know you do babe."               "I don't want to hear you being hurt again okay."               "Alright then," Ryu replied giving her one of his best smiles.               "I love you Ryu."               "I love you too Yumi. I did promise you that I'll make it home so just remember that."             "I will Ryu."               After Ryu Kalan hang up the communication system's receiver, a tear fell from his eyes.               "I will do my best to survive Yumi," he muttered making the promise for himself.               Warrant Officer Third Class Iman Roku called his home and surprised that a message was set up for him from his ex-wife.               Iman I'm sorry, I met this guy a few months ago and he is from Earth. He have time for me and care for me, he is there for me. You were rarely here. I know that you being a soldier and all, but things have changed. I left both of your tigers in your mother's residence and I quit the research facility. Don't even bother trying to locate me I will be gone from Etiratia before you can even get here. Well have a good life and I don't mean to hurt you, but I need a real relationship and you can't give that to me because of your work. We can't even have our own children because of your duties. So good-bye and so long Iman.               Caliber allowed a few minutes to pass by and regain his thoughts, he allowed his heart to become cold and be able to block any emotions regarding his ex-wife. His mind raced towards the moment he met the woman he thought that would love him for who and what he is to this moment. He could not help but feel guilty for what has happened, remembering where he is. Caliber remained calm and kept his composure to himself. Gathering enought strength to life his hand, Iman Roku dialed a number that wiill lead to his parent's residence.               "Iman, how are you my son?"               "Father, how is Tiger and Nala?"               "The two Siberian tigers are fine my boy. How are you and your health?"               "I am alright father," Iman Roku answered with a faint smile.               "Don't worry about the tigers. Your mother and I will take good care of them," reassured Caliber's father.               "What of my properties father?"               "My management firm will manage it for you. Your estates, land, and fortune will be put into investments until your return," answered the grey haired proud Etiratian man, "We all want you to focus on your job ahead. I want you to return home with us Iman ans we all love you, despite of the pain you might be feeling right now remember that you are loved by your blood relatives."               "Thank you father," smiled Iman, "I give you my word that I will return home for all of you."               A few hours passed as Chief Warrant Officer Iman Roku had a conversation with his father, mother, and his two Siberian tigers. Afterwards, Caliber's spirit has been renewed and he is again ready to do whatever it takes for him to earn to right of returning home to his beloved family. What has happened to him and his former wife is the sacrifices of war and duty.               First Lieutenant Kai Kaneka entered the communication booth that was vacated by Caliber. Both men exchanged salutes and a quick hello before Ghost excitedly sat down in front of the communication system, his hand on the receiver and the other hand's finger expertly entered the number he wanted to call.               "Hey Kai," a dashing ebony woman answered.               "Hello babe."               "How you been honey?"               "Well I'm quite good babe and you?"               "I can't cover the war anymore Kai. The Dreadi and Brienne had issued a press blackout throughout the frontlines. They have warned that any other space vessels entering their territory without trading documents will be treated like the Etriatians and be destroyed," informed Rose Burns the Earth reporter whom Ghost has developed a loving relationship with.               "Well that is bad. I guess the only news available for the rest of the universe is our own news correspondence and the enemy's."               "Yeah, but your enemy of course makes you guys look like the culprits and the war happy crazed chaotic people that is a menace to the whole universe."               "As I recall it is they who have invaded our homeland and have devastated many of our worlds," countered Kai Kaneka.               "The whole universe opinion is pro Etiratian but most universal empires and countries are afraid of fighting the Dreadi and the Brienne."               "What else is new," sighed Ghost, "I just hope that they leave us be and let us co-exist with everyone else. But knowing how the Dreadi are, it can only end in a stalemate or a crushing defeat from our hands."               "Just be careful Kai and don't get hurt again," she commented.               "Hey I'm a Ghost aren't I?"               She laughed at his crude joke.               "Yeah sure you are. A ghost who nearly got himself killed," Rose Burns taunted.               "As long that I survive is what counts right?"               "Yeah right."               The couple laughed at each other and continued their conversation that lasted for a few hours. Both of them were recalling their moments together. Those happy and precious moments before, First Lieutenant Kai Kaneka was once again snatched from his existence to serve his homeland.               Akad Mori exited the communication center and walked towards the barracks, noticing an empty can in front of him he quickly dashed towards it and kicked it as hard that he can possibly can. The can flew off the ground landing at the other side of the barracks; he sighed and looked around for anything that he can bend his frustration. A dozen of scout hover-cycles parked in a neat array caught his attention, immediately he shifted towards that direction looking for the Sergeant in Charge of the hover-cycles.               "Sergeant," Mumbatik called out as he neared the park hover scout vehicles.               "Yes Chief," answered the Sergeant in Charge.               "I need to use a hover-cycle."                         "Alright chief," he obliges to Mumbatik's request and pointed at a hover-cycle, "This one is fueled and re-armed to full capacity Chief."               "Thanks Sergeant," Mumbatik commented as he mount the vehicle and activating the engine, "I appreciate it Sergeant."               "Anytime Chief."               Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori sped off with the hover-cycle towards the sunset and towards his destiny as a warrior of Etiratia.               Unknown to everyone within the Imperial Defense Force of Etiratia that a storm has gathered, a storm that will either make or break every member of the Imperial Aces and especially, the Templar Battle Squadron.               Across the horizon near the Etiratian established front lines, a Urak Force General observes his enemy's position. Behind him is a force gathered for one ultimate aim, to elliminate the Imperial Defense Force of Etiratia from the planet Russ once and for all and chases them back to their own territory, the Universal Empire of Etiratia.               Behind Force General Antonio Sanchez gathers the elite high commanders of the Royal Dreadi Forces of the Dreadi Coalition and the generals of the Octagon High Command of the Universal Dukedom of Brienne.               "Gentlemen, in front of us is our great enemy," said the Urak Force General as an opening statement, "In order to defeat this force we will have to work together and be able to sacrifice what needs to be sacrifice for our total victory."               "Great Force General Sanchez," said one of the Urak high command officers, "My army is consisting of twenty-five divisions. If it needs be sacrificed for our victory, then I will gladly do so."               "Thank you General Rios," the Force General bowed in gesture of respect, "We are facing among them the Templar Battle Squadron. We all remember what they have done against us in Arias. We must not forget that humiliating defeat and we must avenge such a defeat."               A loud roar arose from the officers gathered as they all wanted the blood of all five members of the Templar Battle Squadron.               "How do we eliminate them this time Force General?"               "I introduce to you, the Eliminators," introduced the Urak leader.               Five Heavy Dreadi Battle Suits landed to their right, each as menacing as the knights of old Spain during the time of El Cid.               "This is the Battle Suits Rodrigo, Diego, Manuel, Paolo, and Marco. Each of this men are trained to do one thing and one thing alone, to destroy other battle suits and specially the Etiratian battle suits," explained the Urak Force General.               The rest of the high officers gathered there awed in amazement.               "They have been tested to combat the pirates of space and to commit piracy near those who have wavered their support for us."               "Were they successful Force General?"               "None of them were defeated and their training has taken them two years to achieve such skills in warfare."               "Then we should say good-bye to the Templar Battle Squadron of our enemy," commented a Brienne general.               "Yes it is good-bye to them," smiled the Force General, "Have all our forces in position."               "Yes Force General," answered all the officers.               "We attack when ready."               "Very good sir," replied a high commander of the Dreadi Royal Forces.               "It is time for the myth of the Imperial Aces to be extinguished!"

Chapter 9

Miracle Worker....               Mumbatik enjoyed the rushing air as he zips through the countryside, remembering the questions asked by his girlfriend Jennifer Ryder. He throttles the scout hover-cycle.  As fast that it can go.               When will you stop fighting Akad? When can you finally say enough is enough and its time to settle down? When will it be when I do not have to worry about you leaving my side and risking your life for Etiratia?               Those questions lingered in his mind.               It is my duty as a samurai of Etiratia to defend the Empire and the Emperor to my fullest. Everything I have is due to that service which I have performed.               With those words, he recalled her being silent for a minute.               When you are ready to settle down Akad, you know where to find me.               Those last words haunted him as death is always a constant reminder that his life is short and one simple mistake in combat can end his existence leading to his funeral.               He stops at the summit of a hill and gazed down the valley. A sigh exited his mouth when he noticed suspicious movements that can only be seen from the side of his sight. Immediately he calibrated his sensors and finally discovered what he has discovered.               "Mumbatik to base, there is a huge activity behind our lines," he reported.               "We're launching scout drones and sensor drones Mumbatik."               "Good, it seems that the enemy is using light bending camouflage."               "Noted Mumbatik," replied the communication officer of the main base, "I suggest you return to base and suit up."               "On my way," he quickly turned around and sped off towards the base.               As he zips through the terain, a salvo of missiles greeted him. Taking evasive actions, Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori switched his hover-cycle to combat mode. The vehicle mecha-morphed into a combat armor and straps itself around his body for added protection. Both his arms armed with gattling mass-driver cannons and a laser blade ready to be extended for close-quarter combat.               "Enemy infiltrators have engaged me. Attempting to fight my way through," he said over the communication channel.               "Best of luck Mumbatik," replied the communication technician, "The rest of your battle squadron is waiting for you."               "Thanks for the vote of confidence," he locked onto a Dreadi infiltrator combat suit and blasted it towards the next existance.               Finding four more targets in his sensors, he quickly zigzags his way from the hail of energy blast and missile barrage. Locking on at four of his contacts, he opened his chest mounted mini-missiles and fired. Mumbatik watched his missiles finding their mark as explosions ripped through the infiltrator armors.               "Scratch four enemy sappers!"               Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori leaped frog his way towards the vicinity of the main base. Again a hail of missile barrage blocks his progress as he is force to engage the Dreadi infiltrators once again.               "Come on lock on baby," he pleaded his weapon system, "Lock on!"               Mumbatik fired four short burst from his gattling mass-driver cannons and he was rewarded with four distinct explosions, knowing that four enemy infiltrators are again being lost due to his own fighting skills. Suddenly, out of nowhere six infiltrators jumped towards his position and surrounding him.               "You guys don't give up do you?"               As he asked that question, Mumbatik extended his right and left laser blade observing his foes. All six of them carried an axe and short sword for close-quarter combat.               A war cry broke the silence between the Grim Reaper and his six foes. Four of his foes charged in from all sides. Through instincts and fighting skills, the lone Etiratian warrior blocked the blow from his right and stabs his opponent's chest with left laser sword. Pivoting to the right he distance himself from his other attackers, the samurai pushed his dead foe towards the closest foe who is supposed to be on his rear. Blocking an axe blow and parrying a sword thrust at the same time from another foe, he quickly stab the Infiltrator armor and slashed it with the other sword. Mumbatik pivots to his left avoiding a stab and potential axe blow and turned three-hundred and sixty degrees, slashing the opponent's back with the two laser sword and ending it with an upper slash from his right laser sword immediately cutting down his opponent in half. An infiltrator jumped towards him which he pivoted around, again slashing off the Dreadi's legs. His foe landed on the ground, but unable to stand and taking him out of the fight. His last two foes were stunned at what have happened to their comrades. Quickly Mumbatik leaped into the air and sommersaulted re-sheathing his laser blades, locking onto his enemies, he let off two medium burst from his pair of gattling mass-driver cannons. Both Dreadi soldiers dropped to the ground riddled from the mass-driver.               Mumbatik finally made his way towards the main base unhindered from the Dreadi Infiltrators. He re-mecha-morphed his vehicle again into a scout hover-cycle and sped off towards the Templar Battle Squadron hangar. Upon arriving, he took off the helmet and placed it on the hover-cycle's seat.               "Damn, I never knew you can fight like that with any kind of combat armor," greeted Ghost.               "A good soldier can fight with any kind of equipment he can get his hands on," commented Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori.               "It is nice to know that, Mumbatik."               "Alright gentlemen," I interrupted the two, "Let's suit up and engage the enemy!"               All five of us dashed towards our respected battle suit and after suiting up, one by one we leaped into the air and sets our coordinates towards our frontlines which is by now being saturated by constant artillery bombardment from both Dreadi and Brienne artillery units.               "Launch combat drones and take out their artillery," I ordered.               Fifty combat drones emerged from our battle suit's housing, nano-technology configuring it to a noticable combat drones. The drones made their way towards the Dreadi and Brienne battle lines, avoiding both missiles with their counter-measures and utlizing evasive manuever to shake off any beam fire from the ground. Upon reaching their target, the combat drones unleashed its full weaponry of missiles, straffing the artillery pieces with beam cannon fire, and finally finishing off any remaining artillery units with their deadly atomizer cannons. Those actions alone gave our forces substantial time to re-group and hit the enemy force with our own.               "Templar Battle Squadron, your area of responsibility is area two. The Dreadi forces are nearly breaching that area," ordered Force Commander Erik Van Drek.               "Copy that Force Commander," replied I complying to the orders.               My four gallant warriors formed up on me and we streaked towards our zone of responsibility. Witnessing the carnage from above I launched over a thousand missiles which rained down upon our foes, while my four men did the same. Our missiles detonated and thus eliminating most of the Dreadi force who have breached our line, our ground forces finally counter-attacked and drove off the Dreadi forces for the time being.               I landed along with Ghost, Hazier, Caliber, and Mumbatik. Surveying the damage to our line, I immediately retrieved the combat plan for this sector.               "We need to repair the front line and set up a secondary line at this point," I highlighted the area on our heads-up display map for all to see.               "Yes sir, Shaider," said one of the ground officers as he barked orders for the engineers of his unit to repair the damages and the rest of that not on guard duty to set up a secondary line.               "Gentlemen, this will be a long fight," I commented to all that is present as a matter of fact.               While the other members of the ground troops that has fallen under my command finishes the new secondary line of defense and made the proper repairs in our primary line of defense, my fellow Templar Battle Squadron members and I launched off fifty new combat drones and fifty scout drones. The combat drones should assist our effort in defending the sector while fifty scout drones can warn us ahead of time if there is an impending attack to our defensive lines.               "Captain," saluted the First Lieutenant Commander of the ground forces.               "Yes Lieutenant?"               I returned his salute and waited for the officer's report.               "Sir, all preparations are completed; my men and I are waiting for your further instructions."               "Good, our job is plain and simple. We are to hold off the enemy as long that we are able to be combat effective," I explained to the ground troop’s commander.               "I understand sir," the ground troop officer did a perfect about face and rejoined the troops he commands.               I barely sat down the command bunker overlooking my sector of responsibility when a beep wakes me to the task at hand.               "Doji, here is the situation," Force Commander Erik Van Drek said right after I activated my communication gear, "The reinforcements have landed, but here is the deal. Their entire fussion reactor are offline, it will take at least a couple of hours before they can be fully activated."               "You want me to hold this sector until then?"               "If you can do so Doji," answered our Force Commander.               "I will do what I can sir."               I shut off the communication link and leaned back on the chair, contemplating my predicament with the battle squadron under my command. Now I also command two platoons of Etiratian Shock Troops. First platoon makes up thirty men who are divided into three squads and each squad consisting of a squad leader, a sniper, a medical specialist, two heavy weapon specialists, a communication technician, along with four regular troopers. The second platoon consist of thirty specialists, each of the three squads have their own specialty. First squad are made of ten combat engineers, while second squad pilots ten light attack mecha-morphosis capable combat vehicles, and third squad consist of ten demolition specialist. I observed our area of responsibility and the capabilities of the men under my command. Finally, a devious plan hatched out of my mind. For certain the Dreadi forces will be in for a big surprise when they attack our position the next time.               "Templar Battle Squadron and ground troop’s officers, report to the command bunker," I have called upon the warriors who will play a vital part in executing this daring defensive plan.               Upon agreeing on how the defensive plan will be put into effect, every member of my gallant defenders set up everything that is needed to be placed, afterwards we waited for the Dreadi to come and attack our position. We will not have to wait long before our wishes for an attack materializes.               "Scouts have made contact sir," hollered one of the ground troopers.               "They're coming sir! The Dreadis are coming," shouted a sergeant of the shock troops.               "Alright, gentlemen you know what to do," I have said to the ground troop commanders and the warriors of my battle squadron, "To your stations!"               I took my place in the command bunker and observed the men under my command rushed towards where they are assigned to. The sound of incoming missile fire and energy blast greeted our ears; I ducked with the rest of the troops besides me as explosions caused havoc and destruction in our primary line of defense.               "Light combat vehicles, fire long range weapons," I ordered the pilots of that unit, "Combat drones, make strafing runs on their artillery position. Demolition specialist! Fire the remote missile batteries!"               Missiles and heavy mass-driver cannon energy blast tore through the sky above us and landed on their intended targets with near perfect accuracy. Deadly explosions rocked the Dreadi lines, their artillery pieces were tossed above the ground as if they were toys from a child's toy box. Soon what was left of the enemy's artillery is close to non-existence.               "Templar Battle Squadron, prepare missiles!"               My battle suit's missile housing opens ready for launching their deadly weapons.               "Arm the nova warhead mini-missiles and fire!"               Five hundred missiles streaked into the air and homed into the rushing Dreadi ground forces, soon the five hundred missiles detached themselves and multiplied into five thousand mini-missiles. The Dreadi lacking any artillery support were decimated by the nova warhead mini-missiles, many were simply blown to pieces while the survivors have to crawl back to their own combat lines minus an arm, a leg, or both. I watched the massacre that I have orchastrated with a cold heart, unfortunately for the enemy I am not yet through with my symphony of death.               "Arm the multi-barreled beam cannon warheads and fire!"               Five hundred missiles darted towards the remaining Dreadi troops and ejected their casing revealing the deadly multi-barreled beam cannon. Straffing the now panicking Dreadi ground troops with deadly energy beam cannons caused their casualty to peak. Many fell where they stand as their body was riddled by deadly beam fire, many more fell and trampled by their fellow Dreadi as they panic and started to run in every direction. As the enemy panics, I directed our combat drones towards their position from three sides. Launching missiles, firing the beam cannons, and finally the atomizer cannon, our enemies were herded and were harvested in the harvest of death. The missiles exploded, tossing men like toy soldiers, Dreadi soldiers fell by the thousands as beam cannon fire riddles their bodies and the rest whom have survive were atomized by the atomizer cannon. The few remaining survivors were herded in front of us and I was about to deliver the final note from this deadly symphony.               "Heavy weapon specialist and snipers," I called out for their attention, "Take out the remaining enemy survivors."               "With pleasure sir," replied the ground troopers.               Force General Antonio Sanchez slams his fist on his thigh as he watched his brave men mauled by a few defending Etiratian warriors. Snipers made easy picking of his once disciplined and effective soldiers while heavy weapons blasted and mowed down lines upon lines of his so called elite royal guards. Only one man can make such miracles out of desperation, that man is Shaider. Captain Doji Kurohito, an Imperial Ace Battle Squadron Commander of the Imperial Defense Force of Etiratia and the man he both admires and despise as an adversary.               "Battle Suits Rodrigo, Diego, Manuel, Paolo, and Marco," the Force General called out his precious Eliminators.               "Yes my gracious Force General," answered Rodrigo the leader of the Eliminators as he landed next to the Urak overall commander.               "The Templar Battle Squadron has been finally recognized," he pointed out the sector revealing the Etiratian samurai's position, " Attack them and kill all of them."               "A long awaited for and delightful order sir," smiled the Dreadi elite soldier, "It shall be done."               The Dreadi elite battle suit soldier took to the air and was soon joined by four others. Force General Antonio Sanchez have finally unleashed his most elite troops and faced them against the well known elite Imperial Ace Battle Squadron. Both the Force General and the Dreadi called Rodrigo knows that only one side can claim victory. This next battle can lead either to their destruction and humiliaton as the Dreadi's elite team or will they be victorious in killing Shaider, Ghost, Hazier, Caliber, and Mumbatik of the Templar Battle Squadron.               Mumbatik took aim with his new sniper beam rifle and fired. His shot was true and smashed the head of a Dreadi trooper to pulp, he let out three more shots that hit another target at the chest, the other at the head again, and the last target has its heart blown to pulp by the deadly beam from the sniper rifle. Hazier mowed down a herd of Dreadi troopers utilizing his gattling cannon system, while Ghost did the same as if it was a deadly fire hose spraying burst after burst of accurate beam barrage. Caliber fired off his Artificial Intelligence missiles that took out over a dozen of the Dreadi soldiers, engulfing them in a ball of flame. I observed and witnessed my snipers, fellow Templar Battle Squadron members, and the heavy weapon specialist do what they are called upon to accomplish. By eliminating our enemies in the most efficient way that we can.               "Atomizer cannon take aim," I ordered my gallant battle squadron.               "Fire!"               At the moment I have given the command, a five hundred feet circumference deadly beam streaked from the five of us and into the remaining Dreadi troops. Every last soul of our foes were consumed by the death ray and thus finally finished off our attacker.               "All unit cease fire and stand by," I again gazed down the field that was littered by the corpses of our foes.               Satisfied with the result I allowed myself a slight smile that a small force such as that I commanded was able to hold ground against an overwhelming enemy force.What I did not realize at the time is that the five blips coming onto our position will soon lead to a fight that we will never forget, a fight that will determine if I can return home to my homeland or will I be burried as a warrior of my homeland.               "Shaider," called out Hazier, "Five incoming bogies coming our way sir."               "Templar Battle Squadron prepare for battle suit combat!"               As soon that I have given the command, the skies were again filled with Dreadi missiles. Immediately all of us in the Templar Battle Squadron released our conter-measures that have rendered the missile barrage ineffective, the face off finally begins.

Chapter 10

Face Off...               "Templar Battle Squadron! Intercept the enemy," I took to the air and was followed by Ghost, Mumbatik, Caliber, and Hazier.               Once in the air I was greeted by Rodrigo's beam cannon fire from his five different particle beam cannons, a pair on his shoulders, another pair on both the Dreadi battle suit's hips, and a chest mounted cannon. Four were meant to catch me in a criscross type of fire while the fifth was directed towards my vicinity. Instincts from experience and training paved the way as I quickly dodged the well thought off attack. Launching my own Artifiical Intelligence Hyper Velocity Missiles, this streaked towards the leader of the five Dreadi battle suits team. I was shocked at my foe's rapid response; the Dreadi warrior launched its self bursting anti-missiles at quick succession. My missiles were intercepted well before they can reach fifty meters from their target, the dance of death has commenced.               "Use extreme caution," I have warned my gallant Templars, "These people are not your run in the mill Dreadi battle suit pilots."               "Yeah, I noticed," commented Ghost.               "That's Ghost for you," said Hazier, "The cocky kid."               Ghost rolled launching three hundred missiles in consecutive barrage, his foe a Manuel battle suit countered with regular counter-measures. Try as he might, the Dreadi's counter has been overwhelmed and Ghost's missiles found their mark.               "I told you they're not that tough," taunted Ghost as his foe was engulfed in a massive inferno.               "Watch what you say Ghost," said his foe.                         "What the hell!"                         We were all surprised as the battle suit that was thought to be lost began to shed its armor akin to a snake shedding its skin. The damaged armor peeled off and the Manuel Battle Suit stood motionless in the air defying us.               "You guys are no longer the bad boys in this block," said Rodrigo, "Remember our name, for we are the Eliminators and we will be the ones to exterminate you Templar Battle Squadron."               "Only fate can decide that," I replied at my foe.               A missile fired off from my left, activating my beam rifle. I aimed at the missile and fired. Another surprise waited for me, the missile moved quicker than I can manually aim. Thinking quickly, I managed to fire a death blossoms missile barrage which has eliminated the missile and at the same time it has kept the Rodrigo, Diego, Paolo, and Marco Battle Suits occupied.               "Damn, these guys are really good," said Hazier.               Hazier took advantage of the Paolo Battle Suit as it dodged and counter the death blossom missiles I have fired. Sergeant Major Ryu Kalan opened fire with his own barrage of atomizer cannons. His adversary launched ten plasma shield counter-measures which have taken the brunt of the damage from Hazier's atomizer cannons. The Etiratian samurai closed in at his adversary, activating his fission bladed helbred spear that has a blade of a straight short sword that he intent to fight his opponent in a close-quarter duel.               "Come on punk," taunted Hazier, "Do you feel lucky?"               The Dreadi elite pilot activated his claymore sword and swung a downward blow against Hazier. Sergeant Major Ryu Kalan side steps out of the way and turn three-hundred and sixty degrees, swinging his helbred at his opponent's mid-section. The Paolo Battle Suit flips in mid-air avoiding the killing blow from Hazier.               "I'm not that easy to kill moron," commented the Dreadi warrior.               Hazier thrust his weapon at his opponent's chest and was parried by the Dreadi's claymore sword. As the Paolo Battle Suit parries, the Etriatian samurai did a small circled movement with his helbred parrying the claymore sword out of his way and with that opening he thrusted again at his foe's chest. The Dreadi pivoted to the left and side stepping the helbred thrust, turning around again in a complete circle the Paolo Battle Suit slashes through Hazier's chest. Sergeant Major Ryu Kalan blocked using his close ranged weapon and slices to the Dreadi's leg. The Paolo Battle Suit moved away from the slice, but it was not quick enough. Hazier's weapon has wounded the Dreadi's leg with a large wound on the right hip,. Sergeant Major Ryu Kalan assumed his fighting stance with the tip of his helbred pointing at his foe.               "Damn you," said the Paolo pilot, "I'll show you some thing or two."               "Don't talk Dreadi scum. Prove it," replied Hazier.               The two Battle Suits once again lock in the deadly waltz of death.               Caliber took on the Diego Battle Suit, firing his six long range particle beam and ionic cannons at his foe. Warrant Officer Third Class Iman Roku raised an eyebrow as his beam fire was block by plasma shield counter-measures. Activating his fission blade battle batan he flung it towards the Diego Battle Suit, his foe flew upwards utilizing is jet thrusters and avoided the battle batan's deadly blade. The Dreadi pilot activated his scimitar sword and closed in towards the Etiratian warrior.               "I got you now you son of a whore," yelled the Diego pilot.               Stunned by a whirling sound behind him the Dreadi pilot activated its hand held shield and blcoked the battle batan's return flight, as the Etiratian weapon bounced off the dented shield Caliber caught it as it bounced towards him.               "Never count your chickens before they hatch," replied Warrant Officer Third Class Iman Roku.               With an upward slash of the battle batan's lower blade and followed up by a left slash with the upper blade, Caliber ferrociously attacked his foe. The Diego pilot parries the first blow with its scimitar and the second utlizing the hand held shield. Again Caliber strikes with a left slash of the battle batan's upper blade, as it was blocked by the Dreadi's shield he then twirl his weapon upward using both blades in an upward slash. Both of his blows were again blocked and parried by the scimitar, he thrust his battle batan at the Dreadi's chest. However, the Diego Battle Suit swung the edge of its shield towards the blade and thus blocking the battle batan's thrust. Caliber tilted the blade of hs hand held close quarter weapon and slashes through, the unexpected move caught his foe unaware and thus slashing the Diego Battle Suits forearm. Skin and metal mixes together which was peeled by the fission blade of Caliber's battle batan, blood oozes out of the forearm as the Dreadi pilot gazes at Warrant Officer Third Class Iman Roku poised ready to continue the duel.               "Damn Etiratian," yelled the Dreadi pilot charging towards Caliber.               Again Caliber met his foe as they continued their life and death tango with death.               Mumbatik rushed towards his foe with his fission blade kris long serated sword and barong leaf bladed short sword. The Marco Battle Suit activated its twin straight blades meeting his opponent blow for blow, block for block, thrust for thrust, and slash for slash.               "Today is the day you die grim reaper."               "Don't count on it Marco," replied Mumbatik, "By the way how is Polo fairing against one of our own?"               The insulting taunt infuriated the Dreadi pilot with anger and rage, he slash with his left hand sword and thrust with the right in quick succession. Marco's move is swift that most warriors will have a difficult time countering such blows. Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori is not the typical trained warrior, he is the Grim Reaper. The executioner of Etiratia's enemies and an ender of lives. In a circular motion conter-clockwise, he have parried the slash with his barong short sword. With a clockwise motion his kris sword parried the deadly thrust of his opponent. Mumbatik strikes with a double handed outward slash akin to that of a scissor, his foe barely retreated back which narrowly escapes the deadly attack.               "Are you going to leave your comrades again this time Marco? Or will you face me again without running away?"               "He who fights and runs away, lives to fight another day grim reaper," replied the Dreadi as he performs a downward slash with the right sword then immediately spins three-hundred and sixty degrees slashing with the left handed sword.               Mumbatik side steps avoiding the Dreadi's strikes and slashes a horizontal slash with his barong short sword.               "Really now," said Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori.               The Dreadi elite pilot felt a sting on his side and checks. Shocked to see that blood oozes out of his side, he quickly charged towards Mumbatik with steel determination. Activating his forearm shield, the Dreadi warmachine did a right hand horizontal slice following up with a return slice. Mumbatik moved back quickly avoiding the two slice attacks and utilizing his own shield towards his left hand which he nows activated. Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori slams his kalasag shield downwards timing the left hand sword thrust of his foe, the movement caught Marco's sword and was thrown out of his hands towards the ground bellow. The Etiratian warrior's head tilted towards his foe and Marco could feel the gaze of death upon him.               "Take this scum bag," the Dreadi pilot launched thirty missiles at point blank range against his foe.               Mumbatik launched his quick detonated charges around him, as the charges explode the missiles which were homing towards him detonated.               "Childish tricks is what you have Marco," said Mumbatik charging towards his enemy.               Rodrigo fires ten of his beam housing drones, each of them surrounds me firing wildly trying to catch me in crossfire. Activating two multi-barreled rifles, I aimed and shot two of them which immediately exploded as my beam fire riddles it. Firing my A.I. (Artificial Intelligence) missiles, the twenty missiles homed towards their targets and hits their mark. Eight beam housing drones detonated around me. Aiming again with my rifles, I found my target and squeezed the trigger. Rodrigo's piloting skills is to be respected, as he dodges all my beam barrages against him.               "Not bad Shaider," commented my foe, "Let's see you handle an enemy who knows how to play with swords."               Rodrigo activated his straight sword and dagger as I countered by activating my fission katana sword and wakizashi short sword. I met my enemy head on as he charged towards me, as he slashes with his sword and thrust with the dagger I countered ultilizing an upward block and a little circle parry with my wakizashi. The upward block rendered Rodrigo's slash ineffective and so is the dagger's thrust as well. Twisting my right wrist in a little circle, my katana manages to slice through the Dreadi's wrist. The pain made my foe drop his sword and as he looks at his wound, Rodrigo is shock to see his own blood flowing out of the battle suit's damaged wrist.               "Your swordsmanship is not quite to my par, Rodrigo," I said to my opponent, "You should elevate your skills first with practice before dueling me."               At that moment the forces we were so long and patiently been waiting for finally emerges on the battlefield. Our numbers, trianing, experience, and equipment finally turned the tide of battle. The Dreadi and Brienne forces acknowledge this fact and recalled their troops to retreat.               "We will meet agin Shaider. Next time I will have your head as a throphy," threatened the Executioner's comander.               "Fate shall reveal which head will be kept as a throphy," I replied as he flew off towards the Dreadi controlled area at great speed.               "Next time Marco, you will not be so lucky," warned Mumbatik at his foe, "Now get out of here before I changed my mind and keep your skull as a drinking cup."               The Marco Battle Suit of the Dreadi Royal Forces retreated as told.               "See you in the next battle Dreadi," said Ghost.               "Anytime and anywhere I will defeat you Ghost," replied the Manuel Battle Suit as it retreated towards friendly territory.               "I will get you next time Caliber," promised the Diego Battle Suit pilot before retreating.               "I will wait for that time Dreadi soldier."               "You got lucky this time Hazier but next time lady luck will be with me."                         "Whatever to make you feel good at night Paolo," replied Hazier, "Now get out of my sky before I choose to blow you out from it."               My battle squadron and I are once again fortunate to meet and humiliate other elite enemy forces without losing any of our own. I just hope that this will be a good omen for the things to come in the future.               "Templar Battle Squadron! Let's return to base," I called onto the communication channel.               "Copy that Shaider," replied Ghost, Caliber, Mumbatik, and Hazier simultaniously.               The gallant men under my command formed on me and we flew back to our main base in a V formation and none of us can deny the victory that our forces have won today. Thought there are those who have paid the ultimate price for keeping our homeland safe from the Dreadi and their allies, the Brienne. I cannot help the slight smile upon my face that today we have again survive the ordeals of war.

Chapter 11

Recollections…               After leading our battle suits towards our home base and leaving them to be repaired by our technical personnel, my men and I took the opportunity of this precious time and rest. I made my way towards the situation room where our Force Commander is located at. I returned the salute of those who I have passed by, as I enter the room I have noticed the buzz of people trying their earnest in winning the skirmishes that have occurred after today’s battle.               “Doji,” called out Force Commander Erik Van Drek, “I’m glad you are alright. Come this way.”               I saluted and it was returned crisply. Following our commanding officer, I cannot help myself and spied on the situation of our forces in this planet. Realizing that a hard fight is ahead, I now shifted my attention of what our Legion Commander have in mind.               Force Commander Erik Van Drek opened the door of his office and led me in; he closed the door behind him and motion for me to sit at the chair in the front of his desk.               “This campaign here in Russ just got a bit more interesting,” he commented slumping down on his leather chair.               “Truly sir it has.”               “I got another job for you and your Templar Battle Squadron,” sigh the Force Commander, “And this mission cannot be taken lightly.”               “What is it sir?”               “Doji, our intelligence department the I.S.I.S. has finally pinpointed the location of the true Duke of Brienne. However, he is under guard by the Dreadis,” explained the commander, “I need you and your men to free the Duke.”               “Sir, where is he located at and why not use the special unit of the I.S.I.S. in this special circumstances?”               “He is located on Earth and you are the only man I trust that can accomplish this mission,” replied our commander.               “I understand Force Commander.”               “Doji, if he can be brought here in Russ there is a chance that we can incite the populace of Brienne in rebellion and thus shatter the alliance between the false Duke of Brienne and the Dreadi Coalition,” explained the commander.               “Understood sir and I will brief my men in regard of this special mission,” answered I.               “In a few hours I will summon your men and I will brief all of you about this mission,” said the Force Commander Erik Van Drek, “I want you to rest and prepare yourself for the next task at hand.”               “Yes sir,” I stood up and saluted.               As soon that my salute was returned I exited the office and headed towards my quarters. Finally, I can rest for whatever time is allowed for my body to rest.               After a peaceful sleep I was awaken by an orderly who asked that I ready myself.               “Captain Sir,” said the orderly, “The Force Commander wanted to see you in the briefing room.”               “I will be there,” I replied.                Getting up from the bed I made my way towards the restroom and washed my face. I continued my hygiene ritual of a washed face, shave, and brushing my teeth before dressing in a military dress uniform lost in thought.               Earth, I have never seen you before and this will be my first trip there. By fate I will not fail in this mission for my homeland depends upon it.   Afterwards I headed towards the briefing room where I am certain to see the members of my battle squadron. I was not disappointed with my instinctive anticipation. Ghost, Mumbatik, Hazier, and Caliber are already present in the briefing room, only the Force Commander and I are the ones whom have not appeared yet. Surely, a few minutes passed and the Force Commander finally entered the briefing room.    “Templar Battle Squadron, attention,” I barked out the command which my battle squadron immediately obeyed.   I performed a flawless right face motion and saluted our commanding officer.   “Templar Battle Squadron present arms!”   Master Sergeant Ryu Kalan, Warrant Officer Third Class Iman Roku, Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori, and First Lieutenant Kai Kaneka saluted which the Force Commander returned with a crisp salute of his own.   “Order arms,” I commanded and all five of us stood once again at attention.   “At ease gentlemen and take a seat,” said the Force Commander.   I took a seat among the members of my battle squadron and listened intently to our commanding officer.   “Gentlemen, you will embark on a mission to Earth where the true Duke of Brienne is located under house arrest from the Dreadi,” said Force Commander Erik Van Drek, “The Duke is known as Duke Archibald Rollins. He is held in Geneva Switzerland in one of the safe manors that the king of the Dreadi Coalition owned. Your job gentlemen are simple, free the Duke of Brienne from the Dreadi and bring him safely back into Etiratian controlled territory here in Brienne.”   “Force Commander, for what purpose is it that we need to free the true Duke of Brienne?”   “Quite simple Hazier, to shift the balance from the Dreadi’s side to our side,” replied Force Commander Erik Van Drek, “Gentlemen if the loyalist people of Brienne can be mustered to oust the Dreadi backed regime, then our job of penetrating this Dukedom is complete and our main worry will be to invade the territory of the Dreadi Coalition. If the king of the Dreadi Coalition can realize that he is running out of allies, then perhaps this war against the Dreadi can be brought to an end.”   “Anything to finally end this war and return to our homes is a welcoming sight,” commented Mumbatik, “Though there are malcontents within the Dukedom of Brienne, how can we be sure that they will rally behind the true Duke of Brienne and fight with us instead of with the Dreadis?”   “Our intelligence has reported many within the military of the Brienne Dukedom are discontent with the Dreadi. After the last battle, many soldiers of Brienne lost their lives and their high command is blaming the Dreadis that they were used as cannon fodders against our troops,” I answered.   “That is correct Shaider,” said our commander, “Many of our sources are leading to that very same conclusion. Gentlemen, the Brienne military is breaking and the last battle have proven it. If they can only be persuaded to leave the Dreadi and not fear them, then peace with the Dukedom can be achieved. The true Duke of Brienne, Duke Archibald Rollins can do that. He is against the Dreadi occupation and the take over of Brienne’s infrastructure, trade, and even their military. With the help of the discontent people of Brienne, we can shorten this war against the Dreadi. Not to mention it is a strike at the Dreadi’s own policy that they are not invincible and even their former satellite states can effectively fight them with our assistance.”   “If that is the case then this mission is worthwhile,” commented Caliber.   “Hey, if that means going back home sooner then count me in,” added Hazier.   “I want to see Earth so let’s do this,” said Ghost.   “Earth, it has been a while since I have returned there,” Mumbatik thought out loud, “Where ever my services for the homeland and the Emperor are needed I’ll be there.”   “Force Commander, as you can see my men and I are ready to undertake this mission.”   “Good,” said the Force Commander with a satisfied smile, “The Templar Battle Squadron will depart within three hours. The battle suits will be stored in our Geneva embassy and all that you will need for this mission will be there in Geneva also. Your cover is as a technical specialist, so don’t go out there presenting yourselves as soldiers.”   “Yes sir,” replied us all.   “Good, then dismiss,” said our commanding officer.   We all stood up, saluted, and after our salute were returned, all five of us exited the briefing room making our way to the individual quarters which we occupy. Once there I prepared myself and packed the necessary things that I will need on Earth as I know the members of my battle squadron are doing the same as I am.   Dear ancestors of mine, I wonder if you are all proud of me for what I have done in the service of our people, culture, and homeland.   I cannot help but contemplate of the lives my ancestors have prior to immigrating in the Empire of Etiratia. I know for certain that our clan originated from the ancient country of Japan on Earth. My recollections of the past history of our people raced through my mind, the stories my grandfather have told me when I was young flooded my memories. Thinking of setting foot at the planet my ancestors once lived have blazed my heart with desire to be there, never before in my life that I would think of setting foot on my ancestor’s planet.

Chapter 12

Earth the Birthplace of Man…               Within a few hours Ghost, Mumbatik, Hazier, Caliber, and I boarded an attack frigate shuttle bound for the jump points towards Earth. Escorted by four Defender Class warships, the Frigate Shuttle Class galactic ship Errant moved hastily from Etiratian controlled space to the open space. Pursued by a squadron of twelve heavy cruisers from the Dreadi Fleet, we zigzags our way towards the way point. Inside the command bridge of the frigate shuttle, my men and I observed the ten men crew of the vessel.             “Shaider, though this ship has good speed the enemy cruisers are gaining upon us,” reported the vessel’s captain, “We might have to fight our way out of this chase.”               “Do what you must, you are the ship’s captain and I am just a passenger in your vessel.”               “Alright then, all hands to battle station,” commanded the ship’s captain.               Six men scrambled to their battle positions and a red light illuminated throughout the ship’s bridge.               “Ship Captain Hiro,” hailed a squadron commander of the Defender Class warship squadron.               “Yes Commodore Ajima.”               “We will engage the pursuing Dreadi heavy cruisers. However, I want you to screen our movements. With that it is possible to neutralize at least a pair of their ships,” said the Commodore.               “I will do so Commodore Ajima,” replied the ship commander of the frigate shuttle.               The four Defender Class warships launched their decoy drones and thus confusing our enemy. Stealthily our frigate shuttle stalked the six Dreadi heavy cruisers towards their port flank while our four Defender Class warships shadowed their movements from the rear.               “Attack the enemy formation now Captain Hiro,” commanded the commodore.               “Yes sir,” replied the frigate shuttle’s captain, “Helm, spitfire maneuver now!”               Our maneuverable vessel bank right and zoomed towards the six enemy cruisers, opening the weapon’s systems of our light vessel, the streak of beam fire and tracers of torpedoes and missiles made their way towards our foes ships. Explosions engulf our ship’s prey and overwhelming their shields with atomizer cannon beams and super-nova warheads from the torpedoes, among them are also the nova warhead missiles that found their mark. The nimble frigate shuttle opens fire once again from all side as we maneuver around our six enemy ships. Our ship’s captain launched beam shield counter-measure depth charge in time of shielding our ship from the violent retaliation of our foes.               “Commodore Ajima, the door is open,” reported our ship’s captain.               “Good, our squadron is engaging the enemy,” replied the squadron commander of the four Defender Class warships.               The four Etiratian warships formed up into a devastating wingman formation, weaving in out of the six Dreadi heavy cruisers firing their ion, laser, mass driver, tachyon, plasma, and atomizer cannons along with their super-nova warhead torpedoes and nova warhead missiles. Immediately two enemy heavy cruisers crumbled engulf in explosions as the pair of Dreadi warships disintegrates from the awesome firepower of the four warship squadron of Etiratia. Afterwards the four Etiratian warships broke into two groups and started their attack run towards the port and starboard flank of the remaining Dreadi heavy cruisers. The enemy counter attacked launching all their firepower against our four Defender Class warships, this time the frigate shuttle slips towards their rear, banking right hammering the enemy heavy cruisers with everything that our light frigate shuttle have. Once again our beam cannons, torpedoes, and missiles engulf our foes ships and damaging them severely.               “Our ship might be small Shaider but we can sting the enemy and damage them making them think twice before combating us in open space,” said the frigate shuttle’s captain to me.               “That I noticed ship Captain Hiro,” I replied with a slight bow which the ship captain returned in respect.               Again our four escorts devastated the surviving Dreadi heavy cruisers. Two more enemy ships exploded lighting the darkness of space akin to a small star. The surviving Dreadi ships witnessed their decimated force and started to withdraw.               “For what the Dreadi have done against our home planets they will pay and not escape,” said the four warship’s squadron commander, “For our home, Etriatia and for the Emperor.”               Heavy torpedoes streaked from their launchers and plummeted towards the damage and fleeing pair of heavy cruisers. The heavy torpedoes penetrated their hulls exploding deep inside the two Dreadi combat ships. Two massive fireballs erupted consuming the Dreadi ships, gazing at the destruction. I cannot help but feel a sense of justice for what the Dreadi have done that led to the invasion of the Dukedom of Brienne.               “All ships set destination to Sol waypoint,” said our ship’s captain.               Our frigate shuttle and four Defender Class warship escorts formed up unto our starboard and port side as we made our way towards the first waypoint on our journey to Earth.               “Shaider, this is just the first obstacle that we will face on our trek towards Earth,” forewarned the ship’s captain.               “I understand. However, if we succeed then the war can end sooner than what we expect.”               With that answer the crew bowed their heads towards us and we returned their bow in respect.               Within a few hours we reached the first waypoint and jumped from the Brienne side of the galaxy towards another galaxy nearer to Earth’s Milky Way galaxy. Immediately an important encrypted message was received from our central command. The ship’s captain read the message and motioned me to come near him. I made my way towards the captain’s chair and he handed me the message.               Warning extreme caution is advised. Twelve heavy cruisers and two dreadnaughts of the Dreadi fleet have been dispatched to intercept your mission of delivering the Templar Battle Squadron on Earth’s surface.               “The Dreadi will not stop hounding us until we are defeated and destroyed. Since they knew that the Templar Battle Squadron is the elite of the Imperial Aces, they know whatever your mission is, it is an important assignment risking your battle squadron out of the planet Russ and into Earth,” said the ship’s captain.               “True ship captain Hiro. However, we must keep our eyes unto the prize and that prize is the end of this war and the beginning of peace for our homeland,” replied I.               “Honestly Shaider it is an honor serving by your side and it is an honor having you and your battle squadron in my ship. For peace and prosperity I will perform my duty to the utmost and deliver you and your men onto Earth.”               “I thank you ship captain Hiro and it is an honor serving with you also.”               Our fleet of five ships made haste across this galaxy towards the other end in an attempt to arrive at the second waypoint. The more waypoints we passed to closer we are to Earth and the closer we are to Earth, the danger of our mission increased. No matter the risk our duty is to fulfill our mission, for our homeland, our people, our emperor, for peace, for prosperity, and finally for a brighter future.               “In two hours we shall arrive at the second waypoint,” informed the ship captain, “I am hoping that the Dreadi will not be there. If they are then another battle will be fought as it was in the last waypoint.”               “My battle squadron and I are at your disposal,” said I “Tell us where you need any of us and we shall perform that task.”               “Good. This journey is getting riskier as we inch closer towards Earth.”               “Remember what I have said ship captain. Let us keep our eyes on the prize, for peace is much more desired than war.”               “That’s true Shaider,” replied ship captain Hiro, “You and your men must be tired, rest within the quarters and I’ll summon you when we arrive at the second waypoint.”               “Thank you ship captain,” I bowed and ship captain Hiro bows in return.               A crew member led us to our quarters and I lay down on the bed, closing my eyes as I drifted to sleep. Within a few minutes First Lieutenant Kai Kaneka, Warrant Officer Third Class Iman Roku, Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori, and Sergeant Major Ryu Kalan also drifted to the land of dreams, sleep overtook us and rested prior to arriving within the second waypoint.               I was awakened by a siren, looking around the whole room of the quarter that I have occupied is lighted by flashing flash of red. Knowing it is the red alert siren. I hasten tying my boots and rushed towards the command bridge. My fellow battle squadron brothers in arms met me and saluted among with the low ranking crew members. I returned their salute and saluted the captain of the ship, no matter what the rank of the ship’s captain is. In this ship he is the senior commanding officer in charge of all personnel.               “Shaider, I am glad you can join us,” ship captain Hiro greeted returning my salute, “The Dreadi has blockaded the waypoint with seven ships. Their forces are six heavy cruisers and one dreadnaught.”               “What do you propose to do ship captain?”               “The commodore will hail us in a few minutes with a battle plan. However, this battle plan will include your Templar Battle Squadron in this combat maneuver.”               “It is fine with us ship captain,” said Mumbatik.               “It is time for us to act as team player of this force,” commented Hazier.               “We cannot just sit here and take no action, ship captain,” confessed Ghost.               “Let us know what you wanted us to do and we are willing to do it,” added Caliber.               “As you can see ship captain, my men and I are more than ready to assist at any manner,” said I.               A smile formed in the ship’s captain’s face as he nodded at our willingness to assist in this time of need.               “Truly you and your men are among the noblest samurai that Etiratia has ever fielded,” he praised.               “I thank you for your admiration of us ship captain,” replied I.               We waited for the commodore’s hail and once we have received it our hearts lifted up.               “I will be sending an encrypted message. This will instruct your battle squadron’s role in this battle along with the frigate shuttle’s role,” instructed the commodore.               “Yes sir Commodore Ajima,” both I and the ship captain replied.               We soon received the transmission. Both the ship captain and I read our part of the battle.               “Templar Battle Squadron suit up,” as I gave the order all four of my gallant warriors joined me on the way towards the hangar.               Donning the battle suit I hasten my pace and quickly checked the pre-launch sequence, satisfied that all is well with my MBS-5 Battle Suit I exited the hangar bay followed by MBS-1 of Caliber, MBS-2 of Hazier, MBS-3 of Mumtatik, and MBS-4 of Ghost. Activating the thermaloptichameleoline camouflage, our battle suits took the pre-determined position for the upcoming battle. Gazing towards the frigate shuttle, our ship also took its position and close by the four Defender Class warships are ready to commence the fight against the Dreadi squadron of heavy cruisers and a lone dreadnaught.               “Commence attack now!”               By that order of Commodore Ajima, I have signaled my battle squadron and we rushed towards the menacing Dreadi dreadnaught battle ship. Quickly all five of us launched our combat drones and counter-measure carrier drones as we prepare to penetrate the massed Dreadi combat ships ahead of us. The second wave of barrage from our launchers let loosed the decoy drones in hope that the Dreadi can be deceived and thus surprise can be achieved.               “Atomizer warhead missiles, fire!”               A massive barrage of missiles streaked towards the six heavy cruisers while our combat drones do the same. Half of our missiles were intercepted, but enough have survived that the enemy ships were severely damaged by the atomizer blast. The combat drones strafed the enemy ships zigzagging to avoid any beam fire and launching counter-measures to negate the Dreadi’s defensive capabilities.               “Ship captain Hiro, attack now!”               As I gave the go ahead to the captain of the frigate shuttle, he led the nimble ship in a fighter like maneuver adding the ship’s firepower and strafing the enemy heavy cruisers. One of the Dreadi heavy cruisers exploded and was consumed by a gigantic fireball, while the remaining enemy ships suffered critical hits that damages their proud combat ships               “Templar Battle Squadron, attack the dreadnaught!”               Launching super-nova warhead missiles and following up with nova-warhead missile carrier replication missiles, the barrage of missiles headed straight towards the gigantic Dreadi dreadnaught. As my missiles found their target it was joined by missiles from the rest of my four gallant men of honor and samurai of Etiratia. Our combined firepower soon overwhelmed the dreadnaught’s shield and causing it to collapse. I then maneuvered myself on top of the giant warship and aimed my atomizer cannon towards the ship’s engine reactor.               “Templar Battle Squadron, commence phase two,” I have said over the communication channel.               Firing my atomizer cannon, the deadly energy beam with the power of a super-nova punched through the dreadnaught’s hull. I quickly entered the hole I have made and makes my way towards the middle of the engine room, once there I have activated the death blossom atomizer and fired the deadly blast.               “Firing the death blossom atomizer,” I warned the men that I command.               Outside of the enemy dreadnaught, the bridge was atomized by Ghost, and a few more holes were made by the atomizer cannons of Mumbatik, Hazier, and Caliber. Soon the four members of the Templar Battle Squadron launched their beam shield counter-measure in two layers around them. My atomizer blast consumed the mighty Dreadi dreadnaught and managed to damage the other heavy cruisers that have accompanied it. While the beam shield held off the atomizer beam for a while as the members of my battle squadron fired their own atomizer cannon punching a clear way out of reach from the atomizer blast which I have released.               “Enemy dreadnaught eliminated,” I have reported to the squadron of Etiratian warships.             “Copy that Shaider,” replied the commodore, “Commencing the last phase!”   The frigate shuttle of Captain Hiro quickly engaged one damaged enemy heavy cruiser. His ship’s stinging firepower is more than enough to overcome the Dreadi ship as it explodes into a massive fireball. Four Defender Class warships preyed upon the remaining Dreadi heavy cruisers. Confused and defeated the Dreadi ships attempted to escape. Due to their damage, the speed they can muster is not sufficient to out run the four Etiratian Defender Class warships. Heavy torpedoes and regular torpedoes rained over the four remaining heavy cruisers, fireballs engulf all around the Dreadi ships and soon they were overtaken by their Etiratian pursuers. Beam cannons spitted their deadly weapons at the once proud Dreadi heavy cruisers, within a matter of seconds the four crippled enemy ships were blown apart and was reduced into space debris.   “Templar Battle Squadron,” I called out, “Let’s return back to the ship.”   Ghost and Hazier formed on my left while Mumbatik and Caliber formed on my right as all of us headed towards the frigate shuttle Errant victorious against a gigantic dreadnaught of the Dreadi fleet.   Upon returning on the frigate shuttle, we were greeted by six crew members cheering for our actions. As I exited off my battle suit, pats on the back and cheers surrounded me. The rest of my gallant warriors are also honored by such greetings, bright smiles shined upon the faces of the ship’s crew and even the captain managed a bright smile. He shook my hand and patted my back.   “Well done Shaider,” he said, “Well done all of you.”   “Thank you ship captain Hiro,” my fellow battle squadron members and I replied.   The battle has sapped our strength and I made my way towards the galley followed by my gallant warriors. Afterwards the five of us separated our ways as all of us headed towards our own quarters. Upon entering my quarters I collapsed onto my bed welcoming sleep as my exhausted body demanded rejuvenation from the hard fought battle.   Our five ships made their jump from this sector of the galaxy and onto another galaxy far closer to the Earth’s galaxy. After the last battle, the ship captain ordered a stand down that allowed only three men to man the ship while the other six can rest. What lingers in our minds is simple, though we have eliminated seven enemy ships. There are another set of seven Dreadi ships that we have not dealt with yet. Thus far we are fortunate to suffer minor damages from all our warships. Yet all of us ponder how long will our fortune holds against our mortal enemies, the Dreadi Coalition and its numerous combat ships.   I have rested for six hours and wakes up with a cold sweat, usually this cold sweat occurs when a significant event is about to take place. Sitting up on my bed I wiped the sweat from my forehead, stood up and make my way towards the bathroom. After taking a long hot shower and finished my hygiene, I dressed with the Imperial Ace pilot’s uniform and headed towards the bridge. There I was greeted by the crew and my fellow squadron mates whom I lead. The ship’s captain and I exchanged salutes with the rest of the personnel present.   “Finally you woke up sir,” said Mumbatik.   “We are an hour away from the third waypoint,” informed the ship’s captain, “From there it will be take us to the Milky Way and towards Sol.”   Sol, finally I will be able to see for myself the birth place of mankind. Our ancestors originated from Earth and so to the numerous galactic sovereigns that existed in the universe. I have only seen the planet from holographic books and holographic movies, excitement raced within my heart as I anticipate seeing the beautiful sight of the blue planet.   “Are there any new intelligence report?”   “Negative sir,” replied Ghost, “So far we have no definite intelligence about their whereabouts.”   “I would presume that they will be waiting for us near Earth’s neutral territory,” I commented.   “True Shaider, the enemy can be waiting to ambush us.”   “Let them come ship captain, I am certain we can handle whatever that they may dish out,” replied Caliber.   “Such bold words Caliber,” jeered Hazier.   “It is a matter of fact Hazier.”   “I know that Caliber,” sigh Hazier.   “Alright men, we all know what needs to be done. Make preparation for a hard fight ahead. We must reach Earth at all cost,” I reminded my battle squadron.   “Yes sir,” replied Ghost, Mumbatik, Hazier, and Caliber.   The four Imperial Ace pilots exited the bridge on their way towards the hangar bay in order to prepare the battle suits for what is to come.   “Good luck Shaider,” said the ship’s captain.   “Good luck to all of us ship captain Hiro.”   I too exited the bridge and followed the gallant men that I have the honor of leading.   Upon entering the hangar bay, I can hear the chatter of my talented warriors as they calibrate and re-calibrate their own battle suits customizing their performance suited to each one of them. I started to tinker my own battle suit hoping to find any other edge that I can possess in combat. As I review the data of my battle squadron’s battle suit capabilities, it turns out that Caliber have the best endurance, Hazier possesses the firepower, Mumbatik is the most agile of five of us, Ghost is the fastest one in the battle squadron, while my MBS-5 Battle Suit is the most well balance of all within the battle squadron.   “Sir, even the Archangel Protective Armor Package has been customized,” said First Lieutenant Kai Kaneka, call sign Ghost.   “Good, we need all the advantages we can muster so that our chances of survival in the next battle will increase.”   “Everything is set Captain Kurohito,” advised Caliber, “Our own output has increased as well sir.”   “Well done Caliber.”   “Thank you sir,” replied Caliber.   With the weaponry upgrades, armor, performance, and survivability upgrades I am confident that my Templar Battle Squadron will be able to face and overcome all adversaries that we will be soon facing. Since we have face a new elite team of Dreadi battle suit pilots, it is imperative that our own capabilities are increased and with the upgrades performed my own heart rejoiced and thank our Devine GOD for such a blessing that is given to me in the form of the four gallant members of my battle squadron.   “Sir,” called out one of the crew members who have just entered the hangar bay.   “Yes, what is it?”   “We have just arrived within the third waypoint Shaider,” informed the crew member.   “Thank you for telling me that and I will be in the bridge momentarily,” said I.   “Yes sir,” the crew member saluted and I returned the salute crisply.    Then he exited the hangar bay heading back to his own duty station.   After all the preparations are completed I exited the hangar bay and made my way towards the command bridge of this frigate shuttle. Upon arriving and entering the command bridge, ship captain Hiro smiled and motioned me to join him by the captain’s chair.   “Our ship and our four Defender Class escorts have activated our thermaloptichameleoline camouflage and thus are undetected by the Dreadi squadron,” explained the ship captain.   “Have the Dreadi showed up?”   “Yes they have Shaider,” replied ship captain Hiro, “Take a look at the scanners.”   I did as he have offered for me to do and registered six heavy cruisers and the dreadnaught not far from the waypoint. Among those that are patrolling the area are five Dreadi battle suits which I have identified as the ones my men and I have fought in the last battle for the planet Russ.   “I see they are not alone ship captain,” I reported my findings.   “What do you mean Shaider?”   “With the Dreadi squadron is a team of elite battle suit pilots that my men and I have fought in the past. They are known as the Eliminators and are made up of Rodrigo, Diego, Paolo, Manuel, and Marco Battle Suits.”   “Our job just got a bit interesting isn’t it Shaider.”   “Truly ship captain it has,” replied I.   “I will add your report among my own as I pass it to the Commodore.”   “Yes ship captain,” I answered.   A few hours passed as Commodore Ajima and the rest of the ship captains planned the next move in regards of the battle to come. I and my fellow Templar Battle Squadron brethren made ourselves busy as we check and double check everything as we have completed the upgrades for our respective battle suits.   “Soon we will have to take our battle suits in combat again gentlemen,” I reminded my men.   “Don’t worry sir, we are ready for them,” Mumbatik reassured me with such good words.   “He is correct Shaider, we will overcome this,” added Ghost.   “They will soon learn how to fear us Shaider,” said Caliber.   “If not they will at least escape with their lives and spread the word around letting the whole Dreadi military know that we don’t just operate in the planet Russ but all over the universe,” remarked Hazier.   A smile escapes from my face as I nodded my approval at the brave and gallant men under my command. If I was given a choice to command an army of my own, I will choose to have this men assist me in leading such an army. This is how much I trust every single man in my battle squadron.   “All right then, at least we are all in this together,” I replied to the four gallant samurai of Etiratia.   Within a few hours my Templar Battle Squadron and I positioned ourselves near the left flank of the Dreadi ships, since we have activated our thermaloptichameleoline camouflage, our presence are unknown to the enemy. Activating the Archangel Protective Armor Package system, I witnessed my power source spiked high and so did my armor strength, missile output, counter-measure output, and energy output for weaponry. A slight smile emitting from the reflection of myself in the battle suit’s heads up display, soon the word will be given for us to commence the start of the battle.   “Templar Battle Squadron commences operation now,” the order finally came from Commodore Ajima.   By that order I streaked towards the left flank of our enemy. Ghost and Hazier quickly followed on my left while Mumbatik and Caliber came upon my right. Immediately we launched our combat drones, fifty drones of war escaped our housings and formed into six feet long, three feet tall drones of destruction with enough firepower of a small cruiser. The drones emerges out of nowhere from our enemy’s sensor causing immediate confusion, that confusion gave us the momentum we need to exploit their breech. Our drones started their melee firing beam cannons and atomizer cannons at their designated targets, while their launchers launched nova missiles and super-nova torpedoes. Soon the six Dreadi heavy cruisers were engulf by large fireballs as the drones deadly weapons barrage found their mark weakening the Dreadi’s shield. With the atomizer cannon I have punched a whole within one of the heavy cruiser’s hull, I immediately followed inside the punctured hull and upon reaching the center of the ship I have activated my Death Blossom Atomizer. Three hundred and sixty degrees of pure raw energy escaped from my battle suit consuming the whole heavy cruiser, explosions have followed and soon the heavy cruiser disintegrated in a massive fireball leaving only debris of scrap metal around my position. Four other heavy cruisers went up in a ball of flame Within the center of the impending space debris of metal is one member of my battle squadron, in just a matter of half a minute the proud Dreadi squadron was reduced into a heavy cruiser and a dreadnaught. Soon our scanners picked up five Dreadi battle suit followed by fifty others. Every one of us within the Templar Battle Squadron knew it is no other than our nemesis the Eliminators team of the Dreadi Royal Forces.   “Here they come, gentlemen,” I forewarned my men.   “I see them sir,” replied my four gallant warriors of Etiratia.   Activating the Archangel Protective Armor Package I launched ten waves of replication missiles half are tipped with super-nova warheads while the other half are armed with ten mini-missiles carrying nova warheads on each of the mini-missiles. Over a thousand missiles homed into their targets showering them with deadly warheads. Out of the fifty-five enemy battle suits and since all of us fired off the same amount of missiles, only a fifteen enemy battle suits survived including the Rodrigo, Manuel, Paolo, Diego, and Marco Dreadi Battle Suits.   “Prepare for hand to hand combat,” I have said to my men.   I have activated my fission blade katana and wakizashi and streaked towards our foe intercepting them. Mumbatik activated his fission kanampana kris serrated sword and his leaf bladed barong short sword, Ghost activated his fission bladed naginata, Hazier with his fission blade helbred, and Caliber his fission bladed battle batan. My four Templar Battle Squadron members formed up on me in a V formation and intercepted the enemy with my presence. The dace of death began once again.   I side to the left avoiding a sword thrust from a Dreadi Heavy Battle Suit and slash its back with my wakizashi short sword, turning three hundred sixty degrees swiftly I then decapitated my foe with the same swift motion utilizing my katana. Quickly I parried the second Dreadi Heavy Battle Suit’s sword slash in a little circle fashion of my wakizashi and sliced upward with the katana, taking off the sword arm of my foe. As the arm detached from its body, I stabbed my foe’s heart at an angle with the wakizashi and with a swift slice of my katana from my right hand, the Dreadi pilot lost its head. I then faced Rodrigo as we circled one another akin to two dueling warriors of ancient times.   Ghost parried his foe’s axe blow in a circular movement and thrust his naginata’s blade at his opponent’s heart. He then twisted the blade and slashed upward slicing his foe’s chest, neck, and head into two. With a roundhouse kick, his blow moved the now deceased enemy out of his way. The second foe charged at First Lieutenant Kai Kaneka, in a rage the Dreadi pilot slash left and right with its claymore sword. He parried the first blow with his naginata, leading it to the other side of his foe’s body, with a quick side step to his right and a swift three hundred and sixty degree turn. He sliced off his attacker’s head. As Ghost exhaled the breath of duel, he pointed at Marco with the blade of his naginata as both prepared to face one another.   Caliber quickly parried the sword slash of his foe with the battle batan’s upper blade, as he did so Warrant Officer Third Class Iman Roku swiftly thrust his weapon’s lower blade upon the Dreadi pilot’s chest. With an upward slash he finished of his foe and faced the second Dreadi Heavy Battle Suit who rushed him with a battle axe. Parrying the battle axe’s blow by swinging his upper blade downward to his right, Caliber quickly followed up with a vertical slash of the battle batan’s lower blade. With another swift motion, Caliber reversed his slash with the other blade of his weapon taking off the head of his foe. Manuel was surprised of his foe’s ability and circled him as Caliber assumed his fighting stance holding his battle batan with his right hand and positioning it slightly behind his body.   Hazier executed two three hundred and sixty degrees turn siding to his right at the same momentum, he sliced off his foe’s head with the first blow and his second slash sliced his opponent’s right shoulder to the left hip. Withdrawing his fission blade helbred from the defeated foe’s wound. He leaned back and twirls his helbred’s end at the oncoming vertical sword slash of his second foe a Dreadi Heavy Battle Suit. Sergeant Major Ryu Kalan twirled his weapon quickly in a vertical motion and launched a sudden thrust of his weapon catching the Dreadi warrior by surprise and thus stabs its side. With a quick push his helbred’s blade exited the opposite side of his foe, withdrawing the weapon he turns around swiftly and lobbed off his opponent’s head. Paolo slowly moved towards Hazier as the Etiratian warrior rushed towards him ready to do damage upon his foe.   Mumbatik sides to the left avoiding a spear thrust from his foe. He then slashed off his opponent’s right leg with his barong short sword, turned around swiftly counter-clockwise executing an upper block using his short sword and stabs his now defeated foe upon its chest with the kanampana kris serrated fission bladed sword. He withdrew his blade from his dead foe’s body pushing the carcass away with his left arm holding the barong short sword. Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori zigzags towards the second Dreadi Heavy Battle Suit confusing his foe, at the last moment his foe slash from left to right that is when Mumbatik immediately leaped upwards and sides to his right, parrying the blow in circular motion upward with the barong short sword and stabs his foe’s shoulder in an angle towards the left hip. The blade entered the shoulder, to the heart, puncturing the pilot’s lungs, to the left kidney of the Dreadi warrior at the same time damaging the reactor of his foe’s battle suit causing a chain reaction. As Mumbatik withdrew his sword he faced the Diego Battle Suit as his defeated foe exploded silhouetting his MBS-3 Battle Suit. The Diego pilot circled around him as they close their distance with each other in a duel that the victor will take all.   Meanwhile the four Etiratian Defender Class warships engaged their two enemy ships, a Dreadi Heavy Cruiser and a Dreadi Dreadnaught. The darkness of space came alive as beam weapons, missiles, and torpedoes streaked towards both sides. However, since numbers favor the Etriratian force, their Dreadi foes soon were damage as their shield was overwhelmed by their sheer firepower and enough weapons punched through causing massive damages onto the hulls of both Dreadi ships. Suddenly out of nowhere the frigate shuttle appeared strafing each of the Dreadi ships, explosions rocked each ship and soon the once proud Dreadi ships turned to disengage.   “Do not let the enemy escape,” ordered Commodore Ajima.   “Yes sir,” replied the helmsman as the flagship followed the two burning Dreadi ships followed by the other three Defender Class Etiratian warships.   Ship Captain Hiro whose actual rank is a Lieutenant Commander directed his frigate shuttle towards the Dreadnaught.   “Aim the atomizer cannon towards their bridge and open fire,” said the ship captain.   The weapon’s officer complied and did what was told of him. A pure energy blast streaked towards the Dreadi Dreadnaught’s command center, in a matter of seconds it ceased to exist as the bridge was atomized by the blast. A hail of torpedoes, missiles, and beam cannon blast poured through the enormous dreadnaught, soon it was enveloped in a massive fireball and as the fire calms down, there was nothing left of the once powerful warship but flaming debris floating in space.   “Dreadnaught destroyed,” yelled a crew member in charged of the ship’s scanner array.   A large shout of cheer broadcasted from the frigate shuttle as they soon joined the hunt for their last opponent, a damaged heavy cruiser.   A hail sounded originating from the Dreadi Heavy Cruiser.   “Open the channel,” commanded the Commodore.   As the communication officer opened their communication link between the Etiratian flagships Endeavor with the Dreadi Heavy Cruiser, the commodore stood up.   “This is Commodore Ajima of the Imperial Defense Force. State your intention Dreadi Heavy Cruiser.”   “This is Captain Gonzales of the Royal Dreadi Forces I surrender my ship to you and plead for your mercy,” replied the Dreadi captain.   “Disengage your weapons and prepare to be boarded.”     “Yes Commodore of the Etiratian Imperial Defense Force.”   The Dreadi ship stopped firing at the Etiratian ships and complied with their wishes as prisoners of war. A large celebration broke out from every ship of the Imperial Defense Force, as the only battle left is between the Dreadi Battle Suit Eliminator team and the Templar Battle Squadron.   Rodrigo thrust his sword and quickly turned around slashing at Shaider. Captain Doji Kurohito parried the thrust with his wakizashi short sword, side stepping to the left he again blocked the slash with his katana. Shaider stabs his foe’s chest with the short sword and Rodrigo quickly summoned his shield and placed it in front of his chest and thus blocking the wakizashi’s sharp blade. With an upward slash, Shaider wounded his opponent’s left leg. He followed up with a horizontal slice towards the neck and thrust at his foe’s abdomen with the wakizashi. Rodrigo blocked his neck with his shield and parries hard with his sword at the wakizashi’s thrust withdrawing from Shaider in haste.               My gracious king how this man can be defeated with such skills he have. I cannot defeat him like this alone.               With that thought, Rodrigo checked his scanners and found that their forces were defeated. He then signals the rest of his Eliminators to escape with him towards the waypoint. Once they jump from this galaxy to Earth controlled territory then they will be safe for it is a neutral zone and a non-aggressive zone that the Dreadi, the Universal Empire of Etiratia, and the whole universe respects and complies with.               Ghost slashed vertically in an angle from left to his right utilizing the naginata while his foe blocked with his battle axe. First Lieutenant Kai Kaneka swiftly swung the end of his naginata at the head of his opponent. His speed caught Marco by surprise knocking him a few yards away. Enraged Marco lunged towards Ghost swinging the battle axe, the Etiratian samurai summoned his round shield and thus side stepping to the right he blocked the axe’s blade. Extending his hold of the naginata, Ghost slashed upward in time to slice the back of Marco. As blood trickle out of the wound, the Dreadi elite pilot received his orders to withdraw and fired off flares that confused his sight and scanners as Marco made a hasty retreat joining Rodrigo.               Manuel charged towards Caliber and the Etiratian warrior greeted him by throwing his battle batan towards the Dreadi Elite pilot. Manuel stops his track and hunkered down with his rectangular shield. The shield blocks Caliber’s weapon and returns to its owner, as Manuel raised his head Caliber over took him with a spinning back kick aimed towards the Dreadi shield, throwing off Manuel yards behind him. Warrant Officer Third Class Iman Roku rushed towards his foe, the Dreadi warrior spins around swinging the axe in an attempt to intercept Etiratian samurai. Caliber parried with the lower blade of his battle batan and twirls both ends of the blade slicing the chest of his foe from the left side to the right. Shocked, his opponent Manuel, clasp his chest as blood rushes out. The order to withdraw reached him and thus launched his missiles towards Caliber. Warrant Officer Third Class Iman Roku countered with his anti-missile counter measures, explosions surrounded Caliber’s immediate area and thus allowed the escape of Manuel rejoining his fellow Eliminators though wounded he survived Caliber’s deadly attack.               Hazier engaged Paolo twirling his helbred’s blade in a V cut from the left downwards to the center and proceeds upwards to the right. His blows were block by Paolo’s buckler shield, a small rectangular shield. Then he slashed horizontally from left to right and vice versa with his scimitar sword, which was quickly parried by Sergeant Major Ryu Kalan’s sudden twirl of his helbred. Hazier thrust his weapon’s blade at his foe, which sided quickly avoiding the stab. Reacting by instinct Hazier then slaps his foe’s side with the flat end of the blade causing Paolo to stagger to the left. With another swift twirl, Hazier knocked the legs of Paolo using the end of his helbred, the last twirl he made cuts his foe from the left shoulder to the right hip. Wounded Paolo raises his scimitar though weak, he wanted to continue fighting. Hazier places the helbred’s fission blade at the Dreadi’s neck, at that same moment he intercepted a transmission for Paolo to retreat. Hazier jerks his head to the right in a gesture for Paolo to leave.               “Run away and live before I change my mind and take your head.”               Paolo did not hesitate to make a shameful retreat glad that at least his life was spared by Hazier.               Mumbatik dueled with Diego who is armed by a short sword and a long sword. Each of Diego’s blows was parried by Mumbatik’s sword, as the Dreadi slashes with both swords he was countered by Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori’s kanampana long serrated sword and his barong leaf bladed short sword. This time Mumbatik performed a upward circular parry then he slashed off both Diego’s wrist, he followed up the movement with and X slash at his foe’s body. The wounded Dreadi fired off every flash flares he have causing Mumbatik to lose his initiative, from the communication channel Diego heard the order to withdraw from Rodrigo. Diego staggered away from Mumbatik wounded and losing blood as he rejoined his fellow Eliminators they quickly made a star drive jump to Earth controlled territory and thus saving their lives from the Templar Battle Squadron.               “Shaider to the members of the Templar Battle Squadron, let us head for home.”               Ghost, Mumbatik, Caliber, and Hazier formed up on me in a V formation as we headed back towards the frigate shuttle’s hangar bay.               Thank you o Lord my GOD for allowing us to survive this battle. Truly you are guiding my life and my path o Lord.               As I prayed my thanksgiving unto our Divine GOD, I finally touched down in time for the ship to make a jump into Earth’s sovereign territory. When the jump is complete, I cannot help but marveled at the beautiful planet of our ancestor’s origin. Earth the birth place of mankind. Here our hope for peace is located and here we will perform our duty at the utmost of our abilities to end this horrible ordeal.

Chapter 13

Magnificent Earth…               We finally arrived on Earth’s orbit without any further incidents and for that all of us including the crew of our flotilla are glad. The frigate shuttle made its descent down towards the surface, making its final run in Tokyo Japan. After the smooth landing of our space borne vehicle all five of us exited via the rear ramp of the frigate shuttle. A large hover vehicle waits for our arrival and the driver greeted us informing everyone of the Templar Battle Squadron that he will be transporting us to the embassy.               “Thank you for the kind service,” I have told the driver.               The five of us move our way inside the hover vehicle and as it speeds off the space port. Our frigate shuttle took off and headed towards the heaven onto Earth’s orbit. Upon arriving the ambassador greeted our arrival and led us into the embassy’s hall, into a seclude reception hall we went and takes our seat among the couches that are present in the room.               “I am glad that you are finally here Shaider, Ghost, Mumbatik, Caliber, and Hazier,” said the ambassador, “Unfortunately I have a request for you.”               “What is it ambassador?” Mumbatik asked.               “One of our operative, her name is Sophia was assassinated by Lourdes Aire. A lady for hire whom are working for a man only known as Lord,” the ambassador explained, “We believe that they are hired by the Dread government. I want the people responsible dead!”               “I will take the job ambassador,” volunteered Mumbatik.               “Alright then Mumbatik, you take up this assignment while the rest of us will scout the area. We must be certain that none of the Dreadi agents can follow us prior to commencing our true mission.”               “Yes sir,” replied the four gallant warriors.               Mumbatik followed the ambassador to gather enough intelligence before he set out to do his task. Satisfied with the information he have received, Mumbatik finally sets out for his assignment. Once he has donned his MBS-3 Battle Suit, Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori exited the embassy’s hangar bay, activating his jet thrusters taking him into the air. Setting his coordinates in a small town by the Gobi desert of China, he relaxes as the auto-pilot took over the controls of his blood red battle suit. A few hours will pass before he can arrive to his destination.               “Mumbatik to base, I have arrived in the Oasis town,” reported Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori to the embassy in Tokyo.               “Good, proceed with caution. The target is known to be present in a tavern called Vampire Inn,” instructed the intelligence officer present in Tokyo.               “I am proceeding to land.”    Once he touched down he surveyed the area and noticed the Vampire Inn, a bar where many so called professional mercenaries relaxes, gather information for a new contract, and even find a girl that they can take home for the night. Mumbatik entered the inn and observed, he finally identified his target and approached her. Handing her a black rose he gestured her to step out with him. She followed and exited the inn, walking towards where Mumbatik is at.   “There is a message within the center of that rose,” informed Mumbatik.   Lourdes Aire opened the center container within the rose and a holographic recorder projected a letter.   Tell your master, Lord to face me for I wish to duel him in regards of the deceased Sophia.   She laughed burning the black rose, clad in her female armor Lourdes Aire thought that her safety is certain with her armor on. Unknown to her as the black rose burns, spores of plutonium and uranium particles enters her breathing apparatus, towards her nose and mouth due to her laughter, and finally towards her lungs. The plutonium and uranium pores reacted swiftly upon contact with the sub-atomic molecules of her body, causing her atomic molecules to break down and finally a melt down of her whole being occurred. Lourdes Aire screamed in pain as she departs the world of the living to the underworld.   “Quite a deadly flower isn’t it Lourdes?”   The female assassin did not reply as her life was diminished before her whole being.   “So long and good bye Vampire Inn,” he remarked watching her painful and agonizing death.   Satisfied that Sophia has been avenged and justice has been served, Mumbatik entered the inn once again searching for the man called Lord. He could not find the man and so the Etiratian Samurai left a message.   The message read:   Face me for you have ordered the death of Sophia.   Mumbatik left and stayed within the area utilizing a low profile so that no one can notice his presence as of now.   “Ambassador, I have eliminated Lourdes Aire and is locating the man called Lord,” reported Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori.   “Good I want those two out of the way as a retribution for our operative.”   “Yes ambassador.”   A few days passed and by chance Mumbatik finally saw the man known as Lord, quickly he entered the inn with an evil grin.   “Well, well, well look who is here Lordy. That rhymes with Lourdy Airy doesn’t it?” Mumbatik gloated.   “What the hell you want?”   “I have challenged you and you never taken up that challenge you coward!”   Lord armed himself with a sword and activated his psionic abilities that his armor possesses. Technology has evolved that allowed what was once thought of as fantasy type abilities into reality.   “Don’t hide now and fight me,” commented Lord.   “Who’s hiding?”   Mumbatik activated his damper, fission bladed kanampana kris serrated sword, and his barong leaf bladed short sword. Lord uses his psionic ability in an attempt to crush the Etiratian warrior’s knee cap, unknown to him that the damper’s ping finally negated all his abilities and thus making Lord’s psionic attack useless. Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori faces his foe as Lord charged towards him slashing from left to right. Mumbatik quickly countered utilizing his agility matrix and side steps to his left before the blade can touch him, at the same moment he performed a scissor cut using his barong short sword to hack through Lord’s hip and his kanampana kris serrated sword slicing through the abdomen from the opposite direction. The movement occurred so fast that it seems to happen in a blink of an eye as Lord’s body falls to the floor into two pieces separated from the lower torso. Mumbatik’s defeated foe lays on the ground blood and inner organs rushing out of the huge wound where the Etiratian Samurai sliced him into two parts. Looking down at his foe, the man known throughout the universe as the Grim Reaper walked out. Mumbatik took to the air as he begins his journey back to the embassy satisfied that his task is finally completed.   “This is Mumbatik. Lord has been eliminated,” he reported over the communication channel.   “Well done Mumbatik. We will be waiting for your arrival,” replied the intelligence officer within the embassy.   I first visited the famous Dark Tavern located in the wasteland of Alaska for it is well visited by freelance mercenaries and assassins looking for a contract. As I entered the tavern I made my way towards the bar, taking off my helmet I ordered for some sake. Sipping my drink I noticed that a Lestat Brat Prince Vampire style armor suit clad man of thirty plus years of age mistreating a Caucasian brown haired young woman. I quickly placed my helmet back on and walked towards that direction.               “Do not harm her brat,” I warned the immature man.               Lestat Brat Prince did not listen and attempts to rape the young woman in front of everyone. None of the people present wanted to assist her. Disappointed for lack of morals and honor of the people present it enraged me. I launched a globe of daylight warhead missile and detonated it on top of the man. The distraction is enough for the young woman to escape.               “Thanks for the tan I needed that since I’m getting a bit pale,” mocked Lestat Brat Prince.               The second phase of the detonated warhead finally commenced, as plutonium and uranium pores saturates his body. Lestat Brat Prince’s sub-atomic particles were sliced by the pores and thus causing his whole body to meltdown killing the man in the most painful and grueling death anyone can ever experience.               “A very deadly tan has gotten you killed brat,” I replied to his disfigured carcass making my way towards the young woman.               I have spoken to the young lady and have told me that she was an outcast with no home and family to belong with. I noticed why she was victimized by such a idiotic moron, she is a beautiful young woman.               “I am Doji Kurohito a captain within the Imperial Defense Force of Etiratia,” I introduced myself.               “I’m Samantha Reed a wonderer.”               “It is a pleasure to meet you Samantha.”               “Same here Doji,” she replied.               “You are welcome to follow me where I am staying and I can offer you protection, provision, safety, guidance, and a sense of belonging.”               Samantha agreed as I lead her back to Tokyo and this time I have purchased a ticket for a supersonic passenger craft to take us there.               “Thank you Doji,” she replied as from her seat as sleep finally overtook her from lack of rest.   I returned to the embassy also as I have finally finished my scouting mission and it seems that our intelligence agency here on Earth is having some difficulties with assassins. As entered the embassy another operative waited for me.   “Shaider, I really need your help,” she said to me.   “In what manner do you require assistance?”   “Another freelance mercenary who is known as Demigod Achilles has threatened my life and have told me to tell you that he wants to kill you.”   “Then he is welcome to try and do so, though I doubt that he will succeed.”   I once again took to my MBS-5 Battle Suit into the air and headed into the wasteland of Alaska. There I found Dark Tavern, another place that is popular among such people who intends to do me harm. I have landed and entered the tavern, trying to locate the man who has threatened me I failed to do so. I left a message for him to face me and waited patiently. Then a man clad in an armor suit known as Constance came up to me with lies, with simple trick of words I have finally found the truth that he works with Demigod Achilles.   “Fight me and you will surely die,” he said to me.   “We will see.”   Constance armed himself with his sword and charged his chaos aura energy from the suit’s Darkness energy system. I then activated my damper and thermaloptichameleoline camouflage, as the damper pings in an outward three hundred and sixty degrees. The speed of the ping equates to the traveling speed of light and soon the damper found Constance, thus negating his abilities. I fired my death blossom atomizer and in the same manner of the damper’s ping, my foe was soon consumed by the deadly energy blast equals to a supernova focused onto a target. Constance could not react and was terminated within a millisecond.   “This is Shaider. I have eliminated Constance,” I have reported to our base.   Finally Demigod Achilles appeared as I disengage my camouflage system.  He laughs mockingly as I reengage my thermaloptichameleoline camouflage and moved away undetected from my original position. Demigod Achilles rushed towards my last known position as he threw a spear and slash with his sword towards the thin air. I launched two waves of artificial intelligence thermaloptichameleoline missiles, the missiles found their mark showering Demigod Achilles with uranium and plutonium warhead throughout his whole body including the so called Achilles heel. My opponent’s molecular structure is destroyed by the uranium and plutonium pores causing Demigod Achilles to have a molecular meltdown that ended his existence in a painful and gruesome manner.   “Demigod Achilles has been eliminated,” I reported back to the base deactivating my camouflage system.   As I walked pass the tavern Darius a man clad in another armor suit challenged me to a duel within the tavern. I entered the tavern and faced this man activating my dampers and camouflage again as I followed up by launching the same missiles that I have previously launched. Darius was stunned not knowing what to do as my missiles impacted all around him and ending his life the same way that Demigod Achilles ended his. I walked out of the tavern, leaped into the air, utilizing the battle suit’s jet thrusters I headed back towards the embassy.   “Darius has been eliminated,” I’ve said over the communication system.   As I returned home a loud cheer greeted me. Champaign bottles were opened and my fellow Etiratians are celebrating our victory.   “Well done Shaider,” greeted the ambassador, “I would never have imagined that someone can have so much kills within a forty eight hours period.”   “That’s true Shaider. You got yourself four kills,” truthfully said Ghost.   “Taking out Lestat Brat Prince was a hilarious event. So is taking out Darius, Constance, and Demigod Achilles,” commented Mumbatik.   “Yeah, that brat took in a deadly doze of tan,” Samantha laughed.   “Your actions against Lord and Lourdes Aire are also admirable Mumbatik,” I replied.   “He cannot even fight in a hand to hand combat sir. It was an easy ordeal.”   “Well only Ghost, Hazier, and I are the ones who do not have a kill yet,” Caliber said with a sigh.   “The time will come and all of you to have your own kill,” I have replied to him.   “As for now let us celebrate the victory we all have earned.”   “Cheers!”   Throughout that night everyone in the embassy celebrated and even Samantha had her fun in the celebration.

Chapter 14

Calm before the Storm…               I have ordered the rest of my fellow Templar Battle Squadron members to stand down for three days. It has been a grueling ordeal since we left the war torn planet of Russ for Earth. Our journey was also plagued by obstacles presented by the Dreadi Royal Fleet. By perseverance, hard work, and blessing from the Divine GOD we have arrived with minor damages to our five Etiratian ships. Even our arrival was also plagued by fighting. Four men are killed by Mumbatik’s and my hands as well. I want to have a little peace and quiet for the next three days before the commencement of our intelligence gathering work prior to the rescue attempt of the true Duke of the Dukedom of Brienne. Perhaps all of us can rest peacefully for a few days and be fresh as we undertake the mission given to us by Force Commander Erik Van Drek. Making my way towards my assigned quarters, I entered the room and collapse onto the bed. I am glad to be overtaken by sleep as I rest in my room.               During this time Ghost, Mumbatik, Hazier, and Caliber finally have the chance to contact their love ones and take care of their own personal affairs. I have made my way towards the communication center to contact Terresita Campbell. After dialing the number I let out a sigh as she answered.               “Hey,” she greeted.               “Hello,” I answered.               After a few short sentences in regards of work both of us were silent.   This woman whom I have loved a year and a half ago have changed since the birth of our daughter, Sakura. I love my daughter very much but due to her own upbringing Terresita’s love for me have subsided, until we separated two months after the birth of our child. Prior to my homecoming I have agreed to be with her in her own native planet of Tehas, after wards I found work and though my earnest and hard work was given I lost that profession. She wanted to move to her sister’s home planet of Springhill and settle in the small community of Bradley. I followed, as she decline my offer for a another company has hired me in Tehas. A month within arriving in Springhill, work is not easy to find and for a meager wage I was given an opportunity to become an instructor in their small school. She found work from her own sister’s help and slowly her attention shifted. I become a bit jealous of her own brother-in-law since she is being close to her and though I am of Asian decent, I remembered that the culture of these small communities is not like our own. Fear gripped me and we started to argue, the wrong things were said as she forgotten the things I have done for her. One day, her sister has evicted me from their home, though my monetary funds are at home I cannot access them due to fact that their banks are unknown to us also. I contacted my clan members and finally I was sent some funds with instructions to come home and resume my life back in Etiratia.   Return to Etiratia, it is your home and where your future is.   Kurohito Clan.   Reading that message sent tears unto my eyes and Terresita quickly arranged my travel back towards my homeland. Upon arriving in the capital planet of Etir and stepping unto my manor, my heart was relieved to be home, and now I have resumed my duties with the Imperial Defense Force of the Universal Empire of Etiratia as an Imperial Ace Squadron Commander.               “I have sent the provisions for Sakura.”               “I know and I bought her a walker.”               A few more sentences were said towards each other and finally it boiled down to the past as arguments started. She blamed me for losing the employments that I have before as I just stand my ground.               “If you wanted to return to me then I suggest you change your attitude towards me,” I have said to her.               “If you wanted me to come back to you then be a man.”               “Haven’t I?”               “Now you’re not acting like one.”             “I am acting as a man who a stand up for what is right.”               “You can’t even keep a job even if your life depends on it,” she hangs up the communication device after stating those words.               A flag officer whom is a friend that assisted me in after my homecoming was present and witnessed the dialogue. He patted my back as a sign of support.               “It is not my business to tell you what must be done Doji,” he said to me, “I would advice to set her aside as you focus with the task ahead.               I nodded my head for he is correct with the situation that I am now facing. Admiral Bart Bartolome is a man of honor, though he is an elder his face does not show it. Prior to my return within the Imperial Defense Force, he has assisted my manor and possessions as I restarted to provide sellable produce in generating an income as I have done prior to meeting Terresita Campbell.               “Give it to GOD and HE will direct your path Doji.”               “Yes sir,” I replied to Admiral Bart Bartolome.               Chief Warrant Officer Akad Mori took his time as he roamed around the city, he does not want to speak with Jennifer Ryder at this time since he does not want any emotional feelings to cloud and hinder his performance as a warrior of Etiratia. A bar called Grand Dragon catches his interest and he entered the place. As he took a seat on an empty slot he ordered a meal and a bottle of beer, the waitress returns with his order and he began to eat enjoying his food. He noticed a young lady by the bar who also notices him, after his meal he took upon himself to be near the young woman.               “Hello there.”               “Oh hi,” she greeted in return.               “May I sit here?”               “Yeah, sure sit down.”               Mumbatik sits next to the young woman and ordered another beer.               “My name is Akad,” introduced Mumbatik.               “Nice to meet you Akad, my name is Melissa.”               He offered his and Melissa shook it, upon her face is a glowing smile.               “Where are you from Akad, it seems you’re not from around here or from this planet?”               “I am from Etiratia. I work as an information technician for the embassy.”               “That is a nice place I hear and your soldiers are very brave,” she commented, “I came from the British Isles and I worked for a computer company here in Tokyo.”               “That sounds an interesting job Melissa.”               She giggled and they talked for hours. Afterwards the two walked around continuing their conversation, once exhaustion have overcame them the two decided to rest within a café. Mumbatik asked for her contact number before they separate their ways and with a hug the two walked away from the other with a content smile upon their faces.               Sergeant Major Ryu Kalan called his beloved Yumi. Once she answered a bright smile shone upon his face, while her wonderful smile melts his heart calming the deadly warrior of Etiratia.               “Baby you finally called! I’m so happy.”               “Of course I will call. How can I live without you babe for you are my heart, my sunshine, and my love.”               “That’s so sweet baby I love you so much,” Yumi commented.               He laughed and she in turns laughed with him.               “How is everything back home?”               “Great, so far a lot of companies have bid for your photos to be used in magazines, catalogs, and calendars.”               “Wonderful, we can use the funds then,” replied Hazier.               “Yes we can and that’s not all. Even the magazine publishers around the universe also interested with all the photos you took.”