To Boldly Go

It was the future I saw.

‘Warp drive active’ the voice said as the transport ship sped to its destination. A different voice added, “Thirty seconds sergeant.”

No one knew where the invaders had come from.

“Listen up people. Pod pilot says we got thirty. Fleet’s already engaged orbital defenses and we’re droppin’ right into atmos. You know the drill.”

Petty disputes between the races ceased as the realization that all of New Eden was in jeopardy. The alien invasion was showing no signs of stopping as defenses were slow to come together.

“Can’t let this rock go to hell. The corp’s need the resources.” The sergeant added as the transport came out of warp. The pilot quickly went into evasive, avoiding debris and hulks of destroyed capital ships. Other transports joined in formation as they made their way to the nearby planet. Enemy star fighters likewise weaved about closing in on the transports.

It seemed that the combination of fleet, air support and ground pounders were the only effective means of combating the new threat.

The transport ship skimmed the atmosphere as flashes of light appeared on the planet’s surface. An indication of planetary defenses coming online. Several nearby transports exploded into fiery balls of light. “3 … 2 … 1 … drop.” The pod pilot released the dropship, then proceeded to re-engage warp, shooting away just in time as a planetary defense missile streaked past where the transport once was.

The unknown enemy maintained a scorched planet methodology. Never holding territory, rather they destroyed the resources and moved on.

“How long this gonna take sarge?” An unknown mercenary asked.

“Shut it.” Was the reply. “Enemy is sitting up the scorch. We’re going for the hub.” Several groans could be heard.

The winged dropship armed with guns and missiles, pulled up from its fall, now fully powered and sped along. Several others had survived as well and were in formation. “On approach. Ten seconds.” Came the voice of the pilot.

Skimming the ground, the rear ramp opened ejecting the APC containing the mercenary squad. Sliding at first, it cornered then sped up towards the hub. Several other APC’s joined in. Chewing on his cigar, a smile crossed the old sergeant’s face as he watched the squad ready for the assault.

Who knows how this dream will end.