"Sol Invictus"

[BagaturKhan]

"Sol Invictus"

Hello everyone. I wrote this work last year. In fact, it is the ending of my universe, although in fact I am thinking about its further continuation (at least at the level of games and modifications).
It continues the line that you read in other works "Revenge of the Tyrants". You can find them in this section.

Also, I apologize for some inconsistencies or translation errors. I wrote the work in my native language.
For example, there may be different names for the Maingard Republic or the main character - Owen the Scorcher (he is sometimes Scorcher, sometimes Burner).

Thanks all for attention!

Prologue.

Acheron Prime Star Sector.

The battle with the League Crown Fleet "Avessalom" is in full swing.

Camera 1-2 footage.

The bridge of the dreadnought "Sol Invictus" is crowded. Admiral Cadmus Florin, who has already won at least 50 victories over the neo-fascists of the Acheron League, sits in the command chair. Officers scurry around. The first mate, a representative of the non-human race N-Sai named Dalotl, gives the admiral's orders.

Florin is worried. He knows that the armada "Silabirdin" is utterly defeated. The Khazaar fleet of Zindropa helped in this. Everyone knows that the Khazaars abandoned the League, raising an armed mutiny. They were much luckier than the Ho-Nari, whose worlds were bombed. However, Cadmus understands that the worst thing is to rejoice too soon.
The battle is not over yet. The entire Acheron sector is literally torn apart by energy flashes. Hundreds of ships have met each other in a terrifying fight.

Cadmus (to the bridge):
- Shields at 45. Prepare the gun deck for the release of "Ravagers"! I want these blockheads turned to dust! Five of them will be enough to annihilate them!

Executive (towards the admiral):
- Yes, sir! Commander's orders! Prepare five warheads for launch!

A hololithic window appears in front of Cadmus's chair. The clear and very worried face of Captain Owen the Scorcher appears. He commands the battleship "Salvation Army". Owen is clean-shaven, dressed in the same blue uniform with shoulder straps as the admiral.

Owen:
- Sir! The Absalom is almost destroyed. But the Unn-chorr have activated their weapons from Acheron Prime. The probes have detected energy spikes from the surface! Intelligence data did not tell us that the enemy had such power!

Cadmus (furiously):
- Damn them! The portugaling scouts didn't report anything? I was told that the subversive drones had already destroyed their air defenses! Holy armadillo... This bug just won't give up! But never mind... Olmec will die today!

Owen (loudly):
- What should we do, sir? We weren't warned about their howitzers!

After that, the captain's image disappears. The first mate immediately runs up to the admiral. His gray skin was covered with bluish spots. For N-sai, this meant serious concern.

Dalotl:
- Sir! The Unn-chor are preparing to fire on the fleet! They'll reach the forward detachment in a few minutes! I recommend that you immediately strike the capital with the Ravagers!

Cadmus (twitching):
- But the Absalom hasn't been destroyed yet! And that's a war crime! Do you even realize what we'll get ourselves into if we hit the planet with warheads? The League isn't just populated by portugaling fascists! Many don't support their regime!

Dalotl (nods):
- I understand, sir. But what about the howitzers? Owen and his crew will die immediately! And the rest of them! There are almost 20 ships in the line of fire! We weren't warned about this outcome! Intelligence has screwed up again!

Cadmus realizes that Olmec won't give up so easily. The League's High Priest, who leads this brutal formation, uses everything in order to prevent the Coalition from winning. For him, the very word "democracy" is hostile.

Owen's face appears again in front of the admiral's chair. Alarms are clearly audible. It's obvious that one of the enemy ships has hit the Salvation Army after all.

Owen (beside himself):
- They're targeting half the fleet, sir! Absalom is pressing hard! We've got a hit in Compartment 6! Three dead! Dozens injured!

Cadmus (with the same emotion):
- Damn you! We're coming to the rescue! I repeat! We're coming to the rescue! Code Scarlet!

Owen (shuddering):
- You said Code Scarlet?

Cadmus (at the top of his voice):
- Yes, Code Scarlet, portugal it! Take your ship to a safe distance!

Owen:
- But that's a violation of directive!

Cadmus (yelling loudly):
- I command the fleet! I'm a portugaling admiral of the 1st rank! So obey!

Dalotl quickly runs up to the admiral. He intends to find out if his order is still valid. Destroying the fortifications with nuclear weapons threatens to contaminate the entire planet. One of the Coalition's directives states that it is unacceptable to endanger civilians during a planetary siege. It is known that not everyone on Acheron Prime supports the League.

Dalotl (towards the admiral):
- Sir! Should I order the entire vanguard to withdraw?

Cadmus (through clenched teeth):
- Let them retreat!

Then the admiral turns his gaze to the rest of the crew. There are many of them. There are not only humans here, but also representatives of other races of the galaxy. And they all look at their commander. They look with incomprehension. They were clearly not prepared for this.
Everything that happened clearly did not correspond to the information from the briefing.

Cadmus (loudly):
- Artillery deck! Prepare the "Ravagers" for combat! 24 warheads! The intelligence was incorrect! The enemy is using anti-aircraft defense. If we do not strike now, they will strike us!

Dalotl (towards the crew):
- Order the vanguard to retreat from the line of fire! Redeploy to subsector 2! Execute immediately!

They still can't get over what they heard. It is a clear violation of the directive.
One of the communications officers looks at the admiral in bewilderment. His eyes are blazing with indignation.

Officer:
- But sir, did our intelligence tell us that Olmec had such powerful anti-aircraft defenses?

Kadm:
- Until we find this "Phantom-13", we will always have surprises! Follow my orders!

The admiral had no secrets from the crew. Everyone knew about the presence of the "Phantom". This was the very spy who, as the Artandir Security Council believed, was directly responsible for unleashing this terrible war. It was believed that it was he, thanks to his extensive connections, who created the League, and then turned the galaxy into a battlefield.
Intelligence claimed that "Phantom" occupied the highest post in the Galactic Coalition. But who exactly it was, no one knew. All the years spent searching for the "mole" were unsuccessful.

Cadmus (again):
- Aim the guns at Acheron Prime! One-minute readiness!

Dalotl (towards the commander):
- Our ships are beginning to redeploy! The Unn-Chorr guns have not yet fired!

Cadmus (nods):
- If a man does not strike first... He will be struck first.

---

[BagaturKhan]

Acheron Prime, Unn-Chorris Ultra, Main City.

Camera Recording 4-5

Anaxotl (to Olmec):
- Honored One! We don't know what's going on, but our enemies are retreating! That's strange! Strange, considering they've turned so many of our ships into scrap!

The four-armed Unn-Chor officer, like the rest of his kind, is now in the Defense Command Post. Officers and soldiers of all sorts are scurrying around. Many of them are alien races. But mostly Unn-Chor.

The oval screens display the incoming data. As it turns out, the vanguard fleet that arrived to eliminate the planet's defense fleet has begun to retreat. At the same time, Admiral Florin's flagship remained in its position.
Moreover, the Elfurran Empire Admiral Ahmanet User-Kaf successfully took all the surrounding worlds of the system. The Coalition's retreat was not real. Cadmus is clearly preparing something. But Anaxotl is too naive to admit the truth.

Olmek stands to the right of his kinsman. He is dressed in scarlet armor. There is confusion and chaos in his eyes. He knows that the Coalition does not intend to leave. Almost all the worlds of the system have been taken, except for Acheron Prime.

The anti-aircraft guns managed to fire at the ships above. The most powerful salvos hit only two corvettes and destroyed one monitor. The remaining Coalition ships safely teleported.

Olmek (to Anaxotl):
- Don't be a fool! They are not retreating! They are preparing something new!

At this moment, one of the Arangutto officers rises from his chair in horror. He hurries towards Olmec. Judging by his appearance, the news is not good at all.

Officer:
- Your Honor! ...mm.... They are preparing the "Ravagers"! They will attack our city right now!

Olmec (turns pale):
- What?.... Will the shields hold?

Anaxotl realizes how wrong he was. He understands that in this case, the League headquarters will not be able to withstand. Part of the government managed to evacuate. But Olmec and his advisers still remain in the Crown World.
During all this time, the League has already lost dozens of star systems. The Hecatoncheiran worlds rebelled and expelled its representatives. So the days of this once mighty organization were truly coming to an end.

Anaxotl (beside himself with horror):
- Only 4 strikes.

Olmec (hanging his head sadly):
- Yeah... Now we can't cook anything up.... For so many years we've been feeding our kinsmen lies about how strong we are..... And now.... I'm simply speechless.... The Phantom has betrayed us.

This is the first time Anaxotl has heard this from his master. Usually, Olmec preferred to tell the whole world how strong the League's army was, and how shamefully its enemies were fleeing. Only recently, only the League's troops were fleeing. Propaganda nonsense had become laughable even for the ardent supporters of the regime, not to mention those who doubted the superiority of the government.

Anaxotl:
- Are you sure that the Phantom has betrayed us, master?

Olmec (furious):
- What? Isn't that betrayal? He and Marfur-Nirari promised us victory in the war! And not only are we losing all our worlds, but this planet is about to be bombed! They betrayed us!

Anaxotl and the others are horrified by the commander's words. For the first time, he allowed himself to insult the one he had called "god" for so long.

Olmec (with eyes burning with anger):
- Shields at maximum! We will not surrender! Tell everyone! Everyone right now! The enemy will not pass!

Anaxotl (towards the officers and fighters at the checkpoint):
- Did you hear the order? We are not leaving! Shields at 100! We will hold off this attack!

But the officer from the Aranguto race no longer believes the words of the commanders. He has just received information about exactly how many warheads were launched at the planet. The warrior knew that the "Ravagers" were handed over to the Coalition long before the war. Not only could these missiles reach their target in a matter of moments, but they could easily dodge missile defenses. Elfurran secret technology, like the Jerutael.
Sure, a few warheads could be shot down before they arrived. But not 24. That number was too high. Acheron Prime was doomed, as was the Main City.

Officer (staring at Olmec in horror):
- Honored one! The shields won't hold 24 warheads! That's not...

Anaxotl quickly draws his laspistol and burns the arangutto's head with a bright beam. The officer falls dead. His charred body moves for a while, then goes silent.

Olmec (furious):
- Shields at 100!

Anaxotl (to Olmec, but in a whisper):
- But he's right.... We won't be able to repel 24 warheads....

Olmec (with sorrow, and in the same tone):
- We have no other choice. The League is finished, my friend. We shouldn't have started all this.... Only now do I understand how stupid it was to listen to these aliens..... Marfur-Nirari won't save us. For him, we are just tools. And now... he doesn't need them anymore. We... are no longer needed.

In a few minutes, the Main City turns into a fireball. The defense systems were able to repel only 3 warheads. The rest hit the target directly. Bright flashes began to appear all over the planet in an instant. Then they turned into red mushroom clouds.
Olmec died in the first minutes along with the entire command. And the propaganda screens continued and continued their broadcast. Even a minute before they disappeared in blinding flashes, they told of the great power contained in the League government and of its mighty warriors who knew neither fear nor fatigue.

[BagaturKhan]

------

Two weeks later.

"Good morning, Artandir!"

Artandir-Prime, television center of Rafael Quinto, head of the Union of Journalists of the Republic.

Rafael Quinto appears on the screen. His face is lit up with a smile. His gait is dancing, his mood is light and joyful. He is dressed in a bright purple jacket and dark trousers.

A probe-assistant flies next to him, chirping, carrying a couple of glasses of water on its saucer-shaped "head".

Sam Valarti, the red-haired sister of the famous admiral Katarina Valarti, is already waiting for him in the studio. Her face has the same emotions as her boss. She is dressed no less elegantly - a pink blouse with embroidered hearts and a dark skirt. On her feet are high-heeled shoes. Sam sits on a luxurious sofa, waiting for Raphael to sit down next to her.

Quinto, without thinking twice, plops down on the sofa. The joy on his face doesn't fade.

Quinto (towards the cameras):
- Good morning, Artandir!

Sam (smiles):
- I hope everyone's up already?

Quinto (grins):
- I don't know, I don't know. But after we kicked the League's ass, I think we can sleep. If I didn't have to get here by 7 today, I'd be lying around on my own bed right now! God... How I want to go back there...

Sam (laughs):
- You can do without it!

Quinto (enthusiastically, towards the cameras):
- You see?! Not a moment's peace!

Sam:
- Do you know who our guests are today?

Quinto (with a grin):
- Probably some brutal machos from the flotilla again!

Sam (with the same emotion, shaking his head):
- No! We have three celebrities as our guests today! Three real heroes! Everyone knows that we have had different guys as our guests! And even President Cedric himself! But today is an important day for us.

Quinto (with feigned amazement):
- Wait... Wait.... Really.... Really, Admiral Florin himself as our guest? Cadmus Florin himself, thunder strike me?!

Sam (friendly claps Raphael on the shoulder):
- Right! And not only him!

Quinto:
- Meet! In our program! Heroes of our Galaxy! Glorious brave men who brought us victory! Victory over the armadillotiest regime in the history of the universe!

Sam:
- It is thanks to these brave warriors that our Galaxy is now free! Free from the misunderstanding called the Acheron League!
---

After a while, the camera shows three people sitting in the studio, who have long served the Galactic Coalition faithfully and truly.

In the center is the dark-skinned Admiral of the 1st rank Cadmus Florin. Until recently, he was just an admiral, and now he threatens to displace the legendary Alexio, one of the most outstanding naval commanders of Artandir, from the "pedestal".
And despite all the regalia, Florin decided to dress modestly. He put on a simple gray jacket with a tie and dark trousers. Although, at the same time, he did not forget about the medal awarded to him for the capture of Acheron Prime. Cadmus pinned it on his left breast pocket.

Next to Cadmus is Captain General Asinius Fernand. Former President of Artandir, and now Secretary General of the Security Council. A stern, mannish girl with a short white haircut, a cybermonocle in her right eye and two cyberimplants sticking out of her forehead. She is wearing the blue uniform of the General Secretary of Security of Artandir and scarlet trousers.
A little further away from Florin, on the right, sits none other than James Nolan from the Earth Alliance. A dark-skinned middle-aged man, dressed in a bluish-colored service jacket. He came with all his medals. Nolan is the only one smiling among this company. Apparently, Asinius and Florin are not too happy to visit such a popular program in the republic.

On the screen, Sam Valarti playfully sits down next to Asinius Fernand. The mannish girl remains calm.

Sam (towards Fernand):
- Tell me, Eisi... That's what they call you, isn't it?

Asinius (in a stern and low voice):
- I don't like the word "ma'am". My subordinates call me Fernand or Eisi. I've always been indifferent to regalia and all sorts of addresses. So yes, for you I'm just Eisi.

Sam (nods and gets to the heart of the matter):
- Tell me, Eisi, what do you think about the upcoming elections for the General Secretary of the Coalition? You three are obvious candidates. True, there are still several august persons who refused to come to us.

Asinius:
- I don't think anything. To hell with these regalia! If I'm appointed, then so be it! But to make predictions? No, that's not my thing... As it will be, so be it. True, I don't think at all that I will be appointed General Secretary of the Coalition. Rather, our Cadmus!

Everyone has long known about Asinius' passion for swearing in public places. Many journalists are sometimes horrified by her expressions. But considering her enormous contribution to the victory over the League, we have to turn a blind eye to it.

Cadmus (hearing Fernand's boast):
- Eysi, I don't think I deserve this fate. But if they choose me, I won't disgrace the honor of the Coalition. However..... I don't think they'll choose me anyway. As for me, you deserve this position.

James Nolan sits silently and smiles. He is amused by the dialogue of his neighbors on the couch. You can tell from just one look that James would not mind leading the Coalition himself. And all his supposed modesty is nothing more than a feigned phenomenon.

Raphael appears on the screen. The robot assistant places a stool for him, on which the host sits down.

Quinto (towards the guests):
- As for me, you are all good! Thanks to you, the galaxy is free from the horrors of the League! Just a year ago, the filthy bastard Olmec threatened all states with bloodshed! Remember how he mobilized entire families to send them to the front? Not everyone wanted to fight for the tyrant and his minions! And now, it's all over! Thanks to you, the League has ceased to exist.

Cadmus (shaking his head):
- That's not all, Mister Quinto. The League still has some systems under its control. Admiral Tertis is busy driving these bastards out of there. And you know... We're surrendering entire regiments, not to mention battalions! No one wants to fight for these sybarites!

Sam (towards the guests):
- When do you think exactly we'll be able to admit complete victory over the League?

Asinius (with the same stern look):
- When the last of the creatures controlling this pack of terrorists will know the fury of the Coalition. Well, something like that... Those who were captured and who commanded the fascist hordes, we will publicly judge. But our tribunals, you know... don't work fast. It's been two weeks since.... the victory on Acheron Prime, and they're still making some lists about Trotskevich, who was finished off on Tevkris Prime. Although everything is already clear. All the League commanders responsible for the crimes will be punished. And it won't be life sentences... No, some of them will go to the scaffold.

Quinto:
- So we'll wait until these scoundrels are judged in front of the entire Galaxy!

Cadmus (nods):
- And that will be soon. Asinius is a little pessimistic. But I think we'll catch all the bad guys soon. They'll all face a tribunal. May each one get what they deserve!

Nolan (for the first time, he decides to speak):
- I agree with Admiral Florin! On behalf of Earth, I assure you that all the criminals will be caught. Long live the Coalition!

Everyone present repeats Nolan's words.
However, Sam notices that Asinius still looks too sad. She is hiding something, but clearly does not intend to discuss it in public.

Sam (towards Cadmus):
- Admiral, tell me, the public is interested in one small question. We all expected to see the Unn-Chorr ayllus Olmec R-Llandris in chains. It was he, as is known, who started this whole mess with the creation of the League. He was the first to recognize the Coalition as hostile, initiated the withdrawal of the Unn-Chorr government from it, and then subjugated not only his country, but also some other races. For example, the St-Fings willingly swore allegiance to the League. Fortunately, now their state is defeated, and our allies from Rummaldyn are celebrating their victory! But still... Why hasn't Olmec fallen into the hands of justice? I heard he was killed during the siege of Acheron Prime.

Valarti notices Asinius's growing gloomier. Cadmus winces at the question. The Admiral quickly tries to pull himself together and rush to find an answer.

Cadmus (not looking at the journalists):
- Not all criminals make it to court... Hm... That's a known fact. Unfortunately, Olmec fell during the siege. We shelled his palace to knock out his defenses, and then sent in landing parties. But they found only ashes. Besides... Olmec had no intention of surrendering. It was his choice.

Sam (nodding understandingly):
- I see. But it's still a shame... By the way, some journalists claim that you used the "Ravagers" during the attack on the enemy fortress. Tell me...

Asinius (sharply):
- All this is nonsense! There were no "Ravagers". Or do you not believe Admiral Florin? In that case, why invite him here....

Sam (shudders in surprise, but then comes to his senses):
- Forgive me, Eisi. I did not think that this would somehow affect you. These are just rumors... Circulating among the press.

Cadmus (towards Valarti):
- Well, let them continue to circulate. I will tell you, as a responsible and honest admiral of the 1st rank of the Artandir Republic, may it be famous for all time... No one used any "Ravagers". And the fact that Olmec decided to die is his choice. In any case, we will organize a posthumous tribunal for him. Everyone will soon know about his crimes. He has already entered history as one of the most terrible rulers in the galaxy! A disgrace for all time! What else do you need?

[BagaturKhan]

---

- Darned nukes.... darned genocide.... What have we come to...
Half an hour had passed since the interview. Asinius was still in the television center. She was standing on the balcony of one of the tiers and nervously smoking. A majestic city stretched out before her. The oldest of the republic's capitals. The local skyscrapers were so high that they reached the stratosphere. And almost everywhere tiny dots were scurrying - flying cars, taxi drones and other mechanical "products".
Fernand did not forget to look around in order to hide her bad habit in time. After all, if Kat saw her with a cigarette in her teeth, she would definitely be in trouble.
- To hell with it all... - Asinius rasped.
Without thinking twice, she took a small flask of liqueur out of her small bag. It was half full. Kat was worried about her health and nerves. But now Fernand simply could not overcome herself. She barely carried the flask into the center, disguising it as a bottle of water with the help of a special device. Many in intelligence were capable of this. She had been taught this in her early years, when she served on Zabergan.
There were no cameras on the balcony, and Fernand could calmly allow herself to take a sip of "hot". But here, a rather familiar voice was heard behind her.
- Eisi!
Asinius turned around. And so she remained standing with a flask and a cigarette in her teeth.
Caitlin was in front of her. She came to support Fernand during the interview. As a press secretary for the Ministry of Defense, the girl knew very well what exactly happened on Acheron. And she also knew how painful it was for Eisi when she lied to the entire galaxy. "There were no "Ravagers" there. Kat had an idea of ��what Cadmus had done.
If they found out about it now in "Good Morning", the people would quickly demand a tribunal for all participants in the operation. The only exception would be those like Owen the Scorcher, who were against the bombardment of an entire world. During the siege, the Artandir fleet destroyed at least 500 million enemies. Among them were 300 million civilians.
Yes, they were all unn-chor. About 90% supported the League and its tyranny. But not all of them deserved to die. Cadmus believed that he simply cleansed Acheron from "filth". But at what cost? And Asinius had to answer for everything. She made a deal with Admiral Ahmanet from the Elfurr Empire.
Now experts from Elfurr worked on Acheron Prime and cleaned the atmosphere. These pointy-eared creatures had special means to rid worlds of radiation. However, it will not be possible to remove the craters urgently. And the surviving Unn-Chorr will be prisoners of Elfurr. No one will allow them to leave the planet. No one should blab. And if someone dares, then Ahmanet swore to sort it out.
Asinius was tormented by her conscience. She did not know how to deal with this.
- Eisi! - Kat's voice was heard again.
Caitlin quickly took the flask from Fernand. A little more, and she would have broken it. But Kat was not like that. A moment later, the flask was already lying in the nearest trash can, standing not far from the exit to the balcony.
- I asked you!
- Of course ... - Asinius said nervously, and spat out the burning cigarette on the floor, - I asked. But how tired I am of talking this crap! Every day I tell them that we're portugaling heroes! And by the way, we almost brought an entire race to the brink of extinction! portugal all of this!
Kaitlin had long suspected that Fernand couldn't cope. Even this morning, when she got out of bed, she left for work without even drinking coffee. And this had been going on for too long. Since the moment Cadmus bombed Acheron.
- What should I do? - Fernand screamed in a trembling voice, looking at Kat, - If I've been lying for so long! And these portugaling journalists...
- Just calm down... - her friend said quietly.
She kissed Eisie tenderly on the forehead, and then on the lips.
- I know how hard it is for you.
Kat took Asinius' hand and pressed it to her chest. It helped Fernand recover from the horrors she had experienced, and worked much better than any motherwort.
- Yes... - Eisi said more calmly, - 24 nukes. 24 warheads. And how are we better than the League then? How?
- Did I disturb you? - a voice suddenly came from behind the two friends.

The voice was familiar to both Caitlin and Fernand herself. Asinius almost grimaced in displeasure. Of all people, she certainly didn't expect to see Admiral Cadmus here. She assumed that he had already left or was talking to someone from the press, telling them another story about a resounding victory over the League.
Kat and Asinius immediately pulled away from each other. They didn't really like showing their relationship in front of the admiral. The dark-skinned naval commander walked slowly onto the balcony. There was so much sadness in his eyes that it seemed like it was about to spill out. Cadmus was worried too, and everyone knew it. But as he had said two weeks ago, there was simply no way out. If they hadn't struck with the Ravagers, a good half of the fleet would have died. And all because of that crooked intelligence.
- I thought you were already flying to Tingladel... - Asinius said without pleasure, trying not to look the admiral in the face, - And you, I see, are still here.
- I have news here.... About Phantom.
Eisi and Kat shuddered. They knew what that name meant. Phantom-13... This mysterious alien, who had caused a monstrous massacre in the galaxy, was never caught. And while he is alive, the war is not over yet. The truth about the Phantom was known only in the highest military departments, as well as in the leadership of the psi-adepts.
- Have you learned anything? - Eisi asked with interest.
- Yes, our Kosatian friend Ser'Kiraani went to cooperate... - answered Cadmus, - She was recently transferred from the Elfurr prison to Suflet. It's in the Tol-Tissengol system. And there is already our man there... Vespasian Salieri, the former president of Artandir, the same as you. He interrogated her. Ser'Kiraani, you see, repented...
- What is it?

Cadmus thoughtfully looked at Asinius and her beloved. Only after a short pause did he dare to continue.
- It seems we have found out the weak spot of this Phantom. Salieri tried his best.
- And can we find him? - asked Fernand, puzzled.
But Cadmus shook his head at this.
- Not yet... But a weak spot is something. I decided to lead the operation to catch the Phantom. We'll discuss all this at the briefing tomorrow. And not here.

[BagaturKhan]

----
Salieri spent two days interrogating the Cossatii. As it turned out, she truly repented. In the end, she even asked the Draconian embassy for help. Vespasian only had to make one call, and diplomats were already on their way to her. After the fall of the League, the Cossati announced their withdrawal from the union, which was more unfriendly to them. The Council of Elders moved closer to the Draconian Empire, which already meant a new round of relations. Vespasian got everything he needed. But these words left by Ser'Kiraani alarmed the former president. "The Phantom only wants revenge," he could still hear her hissing voice in his head, "The Phantom submitted to the enemy in order to take revenge. He lost someone... A long time ago. And he can't come to his senses. He longs to get her back... I don't know who it was - his wife, or his lover, or maybe his sister. But that's the reason for his anger. The Elfurrs took away the most precious thing from him." The old sly Salieri never liked accusations against the Elfurrs. After leaving the post of president of Artandir, he chose the "Elfurr lot." Since then, he lived on Taladusia with his wife, who looked no more than 20, but in fact, she had long since exchanged her eighth decade. However, Vespasian knew that the Elfurrs were not such "good fairies" as they were presented in the galaxy. Salieri also knew about the recent events on Acheron. After all, it was his betrothed, together with Ahmanet User-kaf, who ordered the "cleaning up" of the radiation. The giant craters on the planet were to be built up with buildings.
"Phantom-13" was completely sure that it was Elfurr who were responsible for the death of his wife, or whoever she seemed to him to be. He believed that the woman had revealed the "pointy-eared" secrets, and they were not too pleased, and so they threw a demolition drone into her starship. This led to a monstrous explosion. Not only she died, but also all the servants flying with her. Of course, everything was written off as an accident. Ser'Kiraani told Salieri that the Phantom had spoken to her about this. Only even the Cossatian did not know who was hiding behind the guise of this creature. He always wore a mask and a cloak, and no one could recognize his identity. Ser'Kiraani had psi-potential, but so did the Phantom, and so he closed himself off from everyone as best he could. Even the greatest of psionics would not have revealed it if he had decided to meet him in person.
Vespasian was now heading towards Ser'Naveh. The draconian had long served Artandir faithfully and truly, and it was he who had been one of the initiators of a serious investigation into the Ser'Kiraani case. The upright lizard was already waiting for Salieri on a small platform, which offered a truly grandiose view of the Soufflet Base skyscrapers. The oxygen generator was working at full capacity, and the holo-systems were successfully generating a beautiful evening sky. Soufflet did not have its own atmosphere; it had to be created artificially immediately after colonization.

- The Phantom wants revenge, - Salieri told Ser'Naveh, having barely found him on the platform, - That's his weakness. He's been planning this for a long time. About fifteen years ago. He tried to set the Draconids and Elfurr at odds. Then he staged mass terrorist attacks in different parts of the galaxy. All of this eventually led to the creation of the League. He did business with both pirate cartels and the Poachers' Guild. This guy is a real "Napoleon" of the criminal world, if you can call it that.
The Draconid snorted at this. In addition, he noticed that Salieri was an obvious fan of the works of the ancient Earth writer Arthur Conan Doyle. That's why the old man expressed himself accordingly.
- And he's hiding somewhere... Somewhere among us, - Ser'Naveh creaked thoughtfully, - We tried to find him. Fernand tried... But he always slipped away. I remember Khorshed, where he fooled us. Then Tevkris-Prim, where Owen and Totkhemris' team noticed him. Trotskevich... That bastard fought to the last. Unfortunately, he didn't know who this Phantom was either. He's a ghost... A shadow.
- And yet he's with us, - Vespasian nodded, - He penetrated the Coalition network so deeply that he became an integral part of it. Frankly, I suspected that it was Rakachinka, the Farrukh military leader. And by the way, he also had a wife... Who died during Ara-Nia's attack. Elfurr couldn't save everyone back then... But Rakachinka was taken out three weeks ago. And the guy was something. He was aiming to become the General Secretary of the Coalition. Only he's gone. And the Phantom is still at large. I suspect that we see him every day. We just don't know who he really is.
Ser'Naveh remained silent to this. He had already brought this up during his conversations with Fernand. The Draconid felt that the Phantom was always too close. So close that he could very well be his best friend or ally.
- Admiral Cadmus is going to lead the operation to catch the bastard, - Salieri continued his speech, - I have already informed him of Ser'Kiraani's repentance. And what she said. We have a lead. We need to look for those who lost someone. Those who have a story. A sad story.
- Do you think Florin can handle it? - Ser'Naveh suddenly exclaimed.
Salieri did not doubt the loyalty of the most prominent of all the Coalition commanders. In addition, he felt that it was Cadmus who would soon take the post of Secretary General. The powers of the current leadership had come to an end, and the elections were just around the corner. - I believe in Cadmus, - Vespasian answered honestly, - He won at least 50 victories in the war with the League. And before that... Pirate cartels, Ara-Nii, Khazaar renegades, mercenary gangs... Cadmus is not just a naval commander, not just a warrior and a man of his word. He is a legend. He has almost never suffered defeats in his life. And he will cope with this too. I believe in him.
- Well, we will believe in it, - the dragonid nodded, - Good. If Florin said that he would find him, then he will find him. Only the question is - when? Time passes. And the situation does not change. We defeated the League, but as long as the Phantom is alive, our galaxy will be in danger.
- There is no word "when" here, - the old man's voice was heard, - He will find him. Definitely.

[BagaturKhan]

-

"He's already here... You don't understand Owen....."
A familiar face appeared before Captain Burner. It was too big. It was definitely a dream. Such faces couldn't exist in reality. And for some reason Owen knew the one who was talking to him.
"You can't fly to Minegard... The trap will destroy you... He planned it all."
Owen's eyes widened. The first thing he saw was the ceiling. A ceiling with dimly lit light shades. He had forgotten to turn off the light when he fell asleep. Apparently, he was too tired after this whole investigation saga.
Suddenly, the captain remembered who he had seen in his dream. It was Him. Cha-Arun or whatever his name was... Ephraim-Arhun-Bey. They had encountered this alien on Griffin when the League had intended to destroy this world. They used an alien from ancient times to fight the Coalition. But Cha-Arun was not so simple. There was already remorse inside him.
But why exactly did he appear in Owen's dream now? As far as the Scorcher knew, the alien had been destroyed. He should have been in the world of the dead a long time ago. Or could one also contact the living from there? Cha-Arun was not a simple alien. He had almost unlimited psi-potential... However, just like Owen.
A moment later, the Scorcher's transmitter beeped. He used it to contact the top management. The numbers that the device included were not available to a mere mortal. And if the transmitter lit up, it meant that someone had dialed it. Dialed from somewhere outside... Someone tried to contact Owen.
The Scorcher quickly picked up the device. For a moment, it seemed to him that some inscriptions appeared on the screen. And very unnatural and delirious ones at that. "Don't fly to Minegard."
- Minegard? - Owen asked himself, - We weren't going there at all!
The inscriptions disappeared. The captain saw in front of him the usual desktop of the device given to him by the command. He preferred to set something related to nature as a screensaver, since he often spent time in space. Looking through the list of incoming calls, he realized that no one had called him. But for some reason the device started working... On its own.
A few seconds later, the call finally rang. It was Akhmanet. The clock said it was too early. Forty minutes before wake-up. But for some reason, Akhmanet decided to call him back. And obviously not just to chat. How could an admiral chat with a captain in the middle of lights out.
Owen answered the call without delay.
- I'm listening.... Akhmanet? Why are you so early? I was still asleep!
They had been talking like friends for a long time. There was no "Madam Admiral" or "Ma'am". Ahmanet, like her sister Totkhemris, did not like such formalities when it came to their closest associates.
- Owen, I beg your pardon, - the elfhurrka's voice was heard, - Urgent news. Admiral Cadmus is taking control of the flotilla. He has already formed it. It is called "Galaxy-Invictus". From tomorrow, you will be transferred to his command.
Owen shook his head. What a shame... Cadmus Florin will be in charge of his ship, especially after Acheron Prime. Hundreds of millions of Unn-chorr died there. After that, the Scorcher distanced himself from the admiral. But the captain did not like the concealment of information even more. The same League acted in a similar way. All information about the crimes was carefully concealed. But the admiral, like no one else, violated the directive. Violated and concealed. - And yes, he is going to come to you tomorrow... More precisely, today. Admiral Florin may lead not only the largest fleet of the Coalition, but also the organization itself. Many in the Council are inclined to believe that he should become the secretary... Sorry... Secretary General.
- And why him? - Owen suddenly asked himself, - As for me, it would be better if Fernand or you.
Ahmanet knew that the Scorcher was not very well disposed towards Cadmus.
- This is our common decision. The decision of the Coalition command. So your ship is at the disposal of Cadmus.
- I am not too happy about this... - the Scorcher honestly admitted, - He is a war criminal, not a hero. He destroyed so many Unn-Chor. It is clear that they were completely zombified by the League's propaganda. But why use the "Ravagers"? Why kill so many people? He brought an entire race to the brink of extinction!
- Yes, but that's already been decided, - the admiral answered coldly, - I just warned you in advance. Forgive me... I'm in Vintil now. I hope you've received the information. Now we have to go.
After that, the connection was cut off. Owen really wanted to smash the transmitter, or throw it into outer space.
- Cadmus Florin... Hero of the Galaxy... Legend of the fleet... - a rasp escaped from the captain's lips, - The crew will be "delighted"... Darn it...

[BagaturKhan]

Ishken Derkh had recently been appointed chief of contacts with alien races. He had heard that Captain Owen was going to turn his ship into a research vessel. The war with the League was over. And life had to go on somehow. Ishken really liked this idea.
Explore the galaxy in search of various intelligent races. Without a doubt, there were a great many of them in the Milky Way. But there were other areas, unexplored and mysterious. Ishken dreamed of doing exactly this - contacts with other civilizations. Owen accepted his idea, and therefore gave him this title on the ship. He was no longer an agent for searching for psi-threats.
Only Derkh did not yet know that Florin had taken over the fleet, and this meant some changes.
Now the agent was heading to the ship's mess hall. On the way, he noticed Gold, a dark-skinned big guy who was taking two days off. They said he went to see his cousin on Vintil-Ultima. Looking at Gold, Ishken was amazed at how heavy the bags were under his eyes. And his face looked a bit puffy.
Gold, dressed in the blue uniform of the head of security, stood in front of a small TV screen built into the wall of the deck. There, from the monitor, the world-famous Raphael Quinto was telling about various news, which he rightly called "the top of the Galaxy." Either Doctor Hassan from the Nargon Republic had added another company to his concern, or "Libra Nicomedica" had ended a dispute about further business strategy. Quite recently, Quinto had even talked to prominent representatives of the flotilla, such as Florin, Fernand, and that earthling Nolan.
- Hello, Gold! How are you? Here already? - Ishken asked with a grin.
The dark-skinned man turned around. He tried to smile, but he did it in a strange and stupid way. Apparently, he had been relaxing a lot these past few days.
- Oh, and you're here... - Gold replied to this, - Yes, hi. Sorry, I don't look so great.
- Rested? Hmm... I see that you rested.
- Yeah, - his comrade chuckled, - My cousin Jerry married his boyfriend. A couple of days ago on Vintil. In short, we had a blast. How could I miss that... I've never drunk so much. It's just... It's just brutal. Vodka, martini, portugaling Vintil liqueur... No,... I can't do this anymore.
Ishken laughed heartily at Gold. Only deep down, he wondered how this big guy would now come to his senses and fulfill his duties. Judging by his appearance, the alcohol hadn't worn off yet. Well, at least it had worn off halfway.
- Tell Cap I'm okay, okay? - Gold said quickly, then turned back to the screen.
- Okay, I'm going to the canteen, - Ishken answered, - I'll tell him that. You're okay... Relative.
- Hey-hey, - a playful voice rang out, - Just don't even think about it. Don't even think about it.
A few minutes later, Ishken Derkh was already entering the canteen. It was full of people and representatives of different races. There were also androids there, who were always making those nasty chirping sounds.
The agent looked for Viktor Kartavin there, but did not find him. Apparently, Viktor was just getting dressed. He had become too slow lately. He often said that there was no point in "slogging" since the League was defeated and the fleet was in relative stagnation. What was the rush then?
However, Ishken knew that until the Phantom was found, there could be no talk of any stagnation. And inside he felt that all his dreams of exploring the outer reaches of space would remain dreams for now. Phantom 13 was a global threat to the entire galaxy. As long as he was alive, peace would not last long. Surely, this "mole" had something else in mind. Derkh noticed that the broadcast monitor in the dining room was working at full capacity. From there, Raphael Quinto's voice was heard every now and then. Then it quickly changed to a female one, belonging to Sam Valarti, a relative of the famous admiral. It seemed that no one on this ship could spend the morning without Quinto and his program.

Soon the captain came to the dining room. This was unusual, considering that Owen preferred to dine with his closest comrades - First Mate Balderan from Etteria, Totkhemris User-Kaf from the Elfurr Empire, Castellan Snofru from Neferirikara and the psi-adept Kerret from Nicomedia. Today he decided to look into the general dining room. Moreover, he came not only with the above-mentioned persons, but also with Ser'Naveh, who was responsible for countering espionage on the ship. Such company quickly attracted the attention of everyone present.
Everyone immediately stood up, saluting Owen. The captain only nodded his head and continued his march to a free table. Almost free. A table at which Ishken had already sat down. Only a minute later Viktor Kartavin ran into the room, but he had to sit at a distance, since he could not cope with the time. Owen and his comrades sat down next to Ishken. Derkh had not dined next to the captain for a long time, and he was very impressed by his behavior.
- I have something to talk about... - the Scorcher said quietly, addressing everyone who sat at his table, including Ishken, - Just forgive me, I'll switch to Elfurr. I don't want the others to know... At least for now.
Owen had to tell about the night conversation with Ahmanet. Yes, there is neither night nor day in space, but the Scorcher preferred to call it a "night conversation". The senior officers had to know about it from the very beginning. And only then - the rest of the crew. The news was not very good. Cadmus Florin, who was reviled by everyone on the "Salvation Army", intended to lead the fleet. Owen also told about the possible election of the admiral to the post of General Secretary.
Everyone remembered that day on Acheron Prime very well. The day when Cadmus used the "Ravagers" and destroyed almost the entire Main City, which belonged to the Unn-Chor. It was the end of the war. The end of the monstrous massacre unleashed by the Phantom. But the admiral himself did not act like the hero that most of the galaxy considered him to be.
The companions sat at the table for about thirty minutes and spoke only in Elfurr, and in the dialect spoken in the Nefrusabek system. This language was not understood by the rest of the crew, many of whom were generally Nicomedians, and knew only Artandir and Nicomedian.
- What kind of admiral is he... - Sneferu grimaced with displeasure, having heard the captain's speech, - He is a condom, not an admiral. Yes, I hate the Unn-Chor bastards, but why was it necessary to kill so many people? Almost half a billion were simply burned off the planet...
- Please refrain from swearing, - Owen interrupted the short-legged alien, - But overall... Yes... I agree with you. What Florin did defies common sense. The Coalition doesn't do that. But they managed not only to divert him from suspicion, but also turned him into a hero of the galaxy. Now his face is on every screen.
As if by the will of Owen's thoughts, the monitor hanging in the dining room above the crew members suddenly showed the face of Cadmus Florin. As it turned out, this was Quinto's trick again. The restless host continued to broadcast his image almost every episode. Once again, enthusiastic words were heard about heroism and selflessness, about the resounding victory over the League and other things.
- I don't know what to say, - Ishken said honestly, having listened to Owen from beginning to end, - Florin certainly acted like a bastard. But at the same time, he didn't lose a single fight. 50 victories is nothing.
- It's not about victories, but about the price, - the voice of the first mate Balderan was heard.
This stern-looking long-haired Etterian was already finishing his cornflakes. Then he was ready to take on a small muffin, and after that - wash it down with strong coffee.
- You're right, - Owen agreed with the first mate, - Acheron's price is too high. We kicked the League's ass. But now we have to deal with military secrets. If anyone wants to blab that so many Unn-chorr died, it will lead to problems. Asinius even talked about bringing such truth-tellers to justice for treason.
And then Ishken couldn't stand it anymore. He didn't like these words very much.
- What treason? Are we the League? - the agent exclaimed discontentedly, - I hope Fernand is joking.
- I don't know, - the captain said to this, - I don't know anything anymore. But the fact is the fact. Florin will fly to us today. In the evening we are having a festive dinner in my cabin. Everyone at this table is invited.
Ishken noticed that Totkhemris had been silent all this time. But her beautiful eyes were, at the same time, incredibly sad. Totkhemris had condemned Cadmus from the very beginning, and when Ahmanet User-kaf started talking about military secrets, she didn't want to listen to her. In the end, of course, she had to submit. But the exaltation of Cadmus? No, that's clearly not what she wanted to see.
- If Cadmus leads us... - Totkhemris finally decided to break the silence, - So be it. But I won't show him the respect he expects.
"Then I'll have to be the one to do the politeness," Owen said with a sigh. "Okay... I guess that's how it should be. But know this... Cadmus is the worst thing that's happened to the fleet."

--

[BagaturKhan]

---

Eyes.... Her eyes were so beautiful that he was literally drowning in them.

He looked at her again. At her photograph from long forgotten times. She was too beautiful.
Tears flowed freely from his eyes. Once upon a time, he felt happy. Felt a flame flaring up in his soul. Like Light illuminating his path. Her unquenchable Light. But Elfurr... Elfurr took her away. Took away everything he loved. Everything he fought for. What he fought for. What he lived for.
- Where are you.... Yuriko..... - he moaned quietly, bending over the photograph.
There were dark candles lit all around on the table. When he prayed to him... The one he asked to return her. The one who promised to grant him great magic. The one who promised to make him happy. Again, like then.
"Phantom-13" continued to sit at the table and look at Yuriko's gentle face.
- Forgive me... I'm doing this for you, - he said, burying his face in the photo, wet with his own tears, - I have to do this. Forgive me, I've done your terrible things. But it's only for you. For you to come back. I can't live without you...
Phantom kissed her face tenderly. He sobbed from the great pain that pierced his heart. Pain so monstrous that it didn't even let him breathe.
- Forgive me... - he repeated again, turning to Yuriko, - I have to do this. Mainguard is the key to everything. The key to salvation. He promised that he would return you to me. He will return you if I do this. I have to...
- Kill them all... - suddenly a terrible grinding sound was heard behind Phantom.
The candle flames, which had somehow illuminated this gloomy room, instantly went out. There was no more warmth. The Phantom felt the cold. He appeared as if from nowhere. His entire body was immediately covered in goose bumps. His pulse quickened sharply.
The Phantom knew that He was already close. He was behind him now... And listening to him. Hearing his every thought.
- Stop... Don't turn around, - now this voice resembled a baby's.
The greatest of all terrorists in the galaxy remained in place. He followed the order of his master and did not even move. He knew that he should not hinder Him even in this. His every order was law.
- Now the time has come, my friend, - the voice became similar to a woman's, as if its owner really was a young maiden, - You must complete the task. A responsible one. If you want to bring Yuriko back. Yuriko - she is truly beautiful, don't you think? Do you want to see her face again? Her true face!
Tears once again gushed from Phantom's eyes. He remembered how he and Yuriko went to that wonderful clearing in Artandir Park. Fernand was still president then, but her term was coming to an end. He remembered how he and Yuriko discussed what would happen when Asinius left her post. It seemed like an ordinary dialogue. An ordinary innocent conversation. But for him, that was happiness. All he wanted now was to return there again to that beautiful park, full of grass and trees.
- I'll do everything... Monsignor... - Phantom whispered quietly when the heavy memories left him.
- You're good... - the playful young girl's voice was heard again, - Very good, I know. You've never let me down. I understand that you felt sorry for Olmec. You know, I feel a little sorry for him too... He was good too. But not like you. He did his job. His story is over. And yours is not.
The Phantom knew what a risk he would have to take now. To lure an entire fleet is a difficult task. But it would be even more difficult not to reveal himself and maintain control. More than anything in the world, he wanted Elfurr dead. He longed to see them die, to see them suffer such torments that they could not even dream of. But deep down, the Phantom did not want to kill his comrades from Artandir. Especially Fernand.
And yet, he knew that it was better to leave the attachment to old friends. Otherwise, the one he served would be angry and punish him. And then the Phantom would know a fate worse than Olmec.
- Only you must remember, - the singing was heard behind him, - Must remember. Must remember. And what must you remember? Tell me, knight! What must you remember? And what must you forget?
- I must kill them all .... I must remember, - the Phantom groaned barely audibly.
The mysterious entity behind him laughed loudly. But the cold in the room continued to grow. The Phantom could already feel his feet starting to tremble, not to mention the rest of his body. The air temperature was dropping.
- What should I forget?
- Forget about weakness, - the Phantom answered more firmly.
Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed that the porthole in the wall was already covered with frost. Almost everything in this room threatened to turn into ice. A little more, and he himself would turn into something cold and hard.
- But know, if you fail, I will make you... I will make you...
The Phantom was ready to collapse from impotence. When he communicated with Him, his energy usually waned. And it took hours to restore it. It was lucky that he knew how not to show how bad he was. Otherwise, how could he have infiltrated the very top of the Coalition and remained unnoticed? - I'll make you... - the young maiden's voice quickly turned into a guttural growl, - SCREAM!!!!

---

-

- Hello, sir! It is a great honor to see you on board!
Owen forced himself to smile with great difficulty. He prayed to all the Gods that Cadmus would not notice his disgust.
- It is indeed a great honor, - Ser'Naveh smiled slyly, and then added, - Sir!
Admiral Florin's welcome went as it should. When his shuttle landed in the Salvation Army hangar, almost the entire ship came out to greet the crowned personage. Everyone on the ship, without exception, saluted Cadmus. Some here truly believed in the miraculous power of the naval commander. They believed that it was he who brought victory over the League. And it is now he who will rightfully inherit the entire Coalition.
When Cadmus, all dressed up in a blue uniform with shiny epaulettes, came down the gangway, the local robot servants even laid out a scarlet carpet for him. Owen had taken care of everything so as not to show his true attitude to what was happening.
- Flattered, very flattered.
- On the contrary, it is we who are flattered, sir, - Ishken Derkh said slyly, - Your efforts in the fight against the enemies... are legendary.
- I would armadillo on this carpet for him... but it's a pity, I can't, - a quiet voice of Sneferu standing nearby was heard.
The Neferirikar said this in Old Elfurr, which Ishken knew. Totkhemris was not far from the dwarf and smiled slightly. She admitted with surprise that she would like to do the same.
- Believe me, I have the same thoughts, - User-Kaf said even more quietly.
Next came the most interesting part for the admiral... and the most boring and unpleasant for most of the crew. Owen showed Cadmus all the ship's decks. The day before, of course, they had been cleaned and scrubbed, so some of the robots were recharging. Walking along the decks, the admiral felt an unprecedented admiration. And Owen continued to play along with him.
And almost never did without flattery. The Scorcher did not know whether Cadmus guessed about everything or not. But even if he guessed, then apparently he tried not to show it. Two hours passed before the naval commander's walk around the ship was over. He even managed to talk to the technical personnel sent to the ship "Hasan Industries". The Nargonians not only shook his hand, but also asked to take pictures. Of course, it was not against the regulations, but the admiral agreed to make a couple of pictures.
Ishken and his comrades continued to follow Owen and the admiral. They quietly talked among themselves. Victor Kartavin tried to listen to their conversations more than once, but for some reason he always thought he heard Elfurran curses.

"Yes, sir," Owen constantly answered Cadmus, trying to stay in character, "Yes, sir. This ship is what we need. It was a little battered on Acheron, until that day on Tevcris Prime. But as you can see, it is afloat. As long as I am captain here, the Salvation Army will fight for the glory of the Galaxy.
"I heard that you want to do research in Deep Space?" Cadmus suddenly allowed himself to ask.
Ishken heard these words, because more than anything in the world he wanted this dream to come true. Only, as before, deep inside he understood that complete peace and quiet was still far away.
- Yes, we have such ideas, but everything depends on you, Admiral, - Owen answered, - As you know, the end of the war is still a long way off. The fragments of the League still remain, although they will soon be finished off.
- It is too early to rejoice in victory, - Florin said to this, - But we will find one bastard... You know who I am talking about. And then all the troubles will end.

[BagaturKhan]

A little later, something began that Owen would have liked to avoid most of all. A festive dinner... Fortunately, not all crew members took part in it, but only the senior officers, including Ishken Derkh, an expert on contacts with aliens.
This whole misunderstanding took place in the captain's personal cabin. The robots laid a truly royal table. No one had seen so many dishes for a long time. But the arrival of the legendary admiral is certainly an event. Such things usually do not go without celebrations.
Cadmus enjoyed trying all the dishes. And then he wanted to let loose something like that. Multiple toasts were born in his head. The adjutants and personal guards sitting next to Florin tried not to drink alcohol, because they had to be vigilant and sensible. The situation could change at any second. That was their job. That is why their faces reflected bitter annoyance. But the admiral, on the contrary, ate and drank, and did not even hesitate to pour all sorts of "potions" into himself.
At one fine moment, the naval commander rose from his chair with the sixth glass, filled to the very top with Vintilian wine. All those present followed the example of their guest.
- Gentlemen! I want to drink to all of you! And to the Coalition, of course! - his thunderous voice was heard, - Who, if not you... Brought us many victories! Everyone says that I am the legend. That I am a hero... But there is no heroism in me, damn it...
Sneferu barely restrained himself from nodding. Because after that massacre, arranged in the capital of the League, Cadmus, in his opinion, could not be considered a hero. Everyone else remained unperturbed.
- I am not a hero, - the admiral continued his speech, - I am an ordinary person. The same as you....
Then he looked at Ser'Naveh, as well as Totkhemris and the Nicomedians present in the hall.
- Hm.... Well, not all representatives of the human race are here, but you understand me. I am not a hero. You are the heroes. You have done so much for the Coalition that we all... Our entire Security Council... The Generals... The Admiral's Council... And all-all-all of these portugaling authorities should be grateful to you! And I want to tell you again very loudly! Thank you very much!
- Thank you, sir! Thank you, sir! - the voices of the rest of the crowd rang out.
After that, the admiral tipped the entire glass into his mouth, and in a couple of moments there was nothing left of what he had drunk.
Gold, who was sitting nearby, tried not to drink too much. After all, not long ago at his cousin's wedding he had poured so much into himself that he still could not recover.
- He drinks worse than Jerry, - Gold whispered quietly, turning to Ishken.
He heard his comrade and smiled.
- Yeah, and he's too talkative.
- Do you think he thinks he's cool?
Gold himself didn't notice how this question arose in his head. But imagine his surprise when he discovered that he asked Derkh about it.
- I don't know... If he drinks so much..., - Ishken answered, hiding his smile, - Maybe he still doubts? Doubts what he's doing.....
- Quieter there... - Snofru muttered discontentedly, already quite tipsy.
He really wanted this whole "great celebration" to end as quickly as possible.

--
Asinius Fernand was finishing work and was about to go home. Caitlin had finished earlier, and Eisie knew about it. And now, more than ever, she wanted to be alone with her chosen one. Usually, the ex-president carefully checked her mailbox before leaving. After that, she had to turn off the holo-computer and quickly go to the auto-glider. The car was already waiting for Fernand. The glider's artificial intelligence would gladly take Eisie home. But something went wrong.
Eisie examined all the e-mail in detail. And suddenly, literally a second later, she saw an incoming letter. It was not in the "Spam" category. But at the same time, the address was classified. She simply did not see either the name or the sender's code. Shuddering from the tension, Fernand opened the letter. What she saw almost deprived her of her senses.

Address: not identified
To: Asinius Fernand ArtSCouncil
From: not identified.

"Hello, Eisie. I'm sorry I'm writing to you from this address.
You probably don't know who this is. But I know you. And for a long time.
I'm asking you to make a choice.
This thing called the Coalition shouldn't exist. Look at how they kept the massacre that Cadmus committed on Acheron secret. The death toll was almost 1 billion. These are the real numbers that no one will reveal to you. Elfurr and the Coalition are poisoning our Galaxy. If they allowed this to happen, they'll allow it again. And next time it will be someone else. Like you... Humans or other races. Who knows if the Elfurr will want to destroy Artandir if they don't like something? You have to understand what's going on.
Elfurr and the Coalition are destroying our Galaxy, destroying entire races at their whim. Do you know how many Elfurrs have destroyed species in its path? Hundreds? Thousands? Maybe more. The Coalition has failed. It cannot continue to exist and submit to the Elfurran slavers.
You must make a responsible choice. Submit to the inevitable. You have a chance. The Coalition must be destroyed.

It will happen soon. When the storm begins, support the True Power. And then you will win forgiveness.
And you will be free.
The entire galaxy will be free.

Soon... Soon it will be over. Pain is only temporary.

Sincerely yours, Phantom-13."

- How do you know me?! What the hell?! - Asinius cursed, having read the letter to the end.
She was about to call the security service and summon the chief cyberneticist. But the letter suddenly simply disappeared. It was deleted from her mail by itself.
After that, the holo-computer was filled with a bright glow. Thousands of numerical sequences appeared on the flaring screen. And only a few seconds later, all this stopped. The device simply burned out. And along with the computer, entire terabytes of data were destroyed.
Without thinking twice, Fernand took the remote transmitter from the table and urgently called security.

---

[BagaturKhan]

---

- ��I don't care that they feel bad! Let them drag it faster!
The Farrukh officer on the Sol Invictus had been famous for his loudmouthedness for a week now. He had recently joined the service and had already managed to acquire a corresponding reputation. Zheng Chupalorkhorn. That was his name. He came from an ancient Farrukh family. He preferred to take the form of a man with bright green eyes and dress in gray armor. Zheng always had a sharp saber with him. But he did not respect pistols and firearms at all.
Now Zheng was shouting loudly at his subordinates from the Arangutto race. It was them that he ordered to drag the mysterious device, which had an equally mysterious name. The device, or rather, the artifact, was called the "Ark." Chupalorkhorn knew that it had a negative effect on automatons. At first, he even wanted to entrust this whole matter to robots, but one of them broke down after ten minutes, and the second suddenly began to attack the personnel. The rebellious machine had to be liquidated. And the work had to be entrusted to living beings.
- Faster! Faster, monkey offspring! - Zheng barked with contempt, - Move!
The Arangutos tried to deliver it to a special compartment of the artillery deck. From there it should be transported to the already prepared missile capsule. But Zheng could easily cope with this with the help of one of his comrades. He knew how to resist this force. At least five minutes he would definitely be able to hold out and not go crazy. As for his colleague, she could resist much more.
The metal doors parted, and an oval room with piles of screens and consoles appeared before the eyes of those present. It was here that the Arangutos were supposed to leave the device... The mysterious "Ark".
- Will they keep their sanity? - a question was heard from a man-like woman, devoid of any hair on her head.
Her name was Inna. That was all that needed to be known. First Mate Dalotl trusted her, as did Zheng himself. They said that she had once been a member of the Esoteric Conclave. It was from those days that almost her entire body was covered with multiple tattoos. The only exception was her head.
- If not, I will find a way to get rid of them, - Zheng smiled slyly, - We will blame it on an escape.
As if by a wave of the hand, one of the arangutos suddenly fell to the deck and began to writhe in incredible pain. Several guards standing nearby immediately rushed to the monkey-like creature. They grabbed him and instantly dragged him away from the special compartment. - When we were digging up the "Ark", half of the archaeologists went crazy, - Inna noted mournfully, remembering the price they had to pay to get this mysterious relic, - One of them beat himself with a stone. He hit himself with such force that his skull split.
- And what about the second one?
Zheng clearly wanted to know the fate of the other archaeologists. Of course, he knew that half of the researchers did not survive. But he still did not know the true price. And that is why the farrukh decided to ask another question.
- The second one died from masturbation... - the woman said with a slight grin, - He was found in a neighboring cave. He broke his penis. And his heart simply could not take it. These Stones affect living beings in different ways. Some are limited to glossolalia, others harm their comrades or themselves. That is why these Stones are called Cursed. They existed long before all of us. The power they contain is older than the stars themselves.
Zheng's skin suddenly became so white that it seemed as if he had been doused with paint. Farrukh expressed great excitement in this way. Chupalorkhorn understood how ancient and unbridled this power was. The League tried to study and subdue it. Apparently, nothing worked. And now, the whole thing has fallen to "Invictus".
"While Cadmus is drinking with his bastard friends, we are preparing a nice surprise," Inna smiled even wider, "A surprise for them all."
"Do you think when we load this stone into the capsule... And then blow it up..." Zheng tried to ask.
However, a moment later, he realized that he could not bring himself to say what he wanted.
"There will be a big-big BANG," the woman grinned again, "Thousands of times more powerful than the "Destroyer". And then the funnel will swallow everything around it. And there will be nothing left of this miserable galaxy.


Dalotl stood in front of the washbasin. The grey-skinned N-sai hadn't washed his hands for a long time. And now the moment had come. He turned on the water and rinsed his palms thoroughly. When the deed was done, he turned off the appliances, and the water stopped flowing.
But when he looked in the mirror, he recoiled. The fair-haired maiden, dressed in a soldier's jacket, appeared too suddenly. N-sai hadn't noticed that she had been here all this time. Or always....
- Sorry... - her guilty voice was heard.
The lampshades burning on the ceiling of the bathroom blinked several times. Once they even turned off, and then lit up again.
N-sai admitted that he hadn't expected to see her here. Anywhere - but not here.
- Yes... yes... I just decided to wash my hands.... I'm worried... - Dalotl said nervously, covered in small blue spots, - In our race, this is called a sign of anxiety...
He tried not to turn around and look at the sink. He knew that without her permission he couldn't even move. She was too unpredictable.
- I know that, but you can turn around, I don't bite... - the girl spoke more affectionately.
N-sai was amazed by such kindness. He knew that her unpredictability could be frightening. Usually, he just stood and looked into the void, but he didn't dare even glance in her direction.
With great difficulty, Dalotl forced himself to turn around. The girl was still standing in the same jacket and looking into his eyes. For a second, N-sai saw the planet tearing itself apart. After that, the vision dissolved. Everything happened too unexpectedly. He was again in that same toilet. But the girl did not disappear.
- Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you, - the mysterious person smiled playfully, - Just not you.
- If you're talking about... our idea... - N-sai whispered, overcoming his fear, - Then Zheng and Inna are working. The "Ark" is already loaded. One of the warheads is loaded. And no one knows what it's capable of.
The mysterious maiden smiled. She gently touched Dalotl. He was stunned by her touch. He felt an incredible force piercing him through and through. For a second, N-sai again saw how the entire planet was torn apart. The vision disappeared as quickly as it had appeared. Everything was repeating itself, just like a few seconds ago.
- Why doesn't anyone know... - the maiden noted with the same smile, - This force was invented long before you. I, like no one else, remember this. This was before the first of you awakened. The first larvae.
"The Ancient Days?" N-sai asked, but deep down he already knew what the answer would be.
The people to which Dalotl belonged believed that the first of them appeared in the form of pupae. And so among the N-sai they often spoke of "the first larvae." The first embryos sent by Those-Who-Created-Worlds-and-Stars. The N-sai always worshiped them. And they never forgot that it was They, the Forefathers, who once owned this universe.
- The Ancient Days are returning again, - the voice of the fair-haired girl was heard again, but this time it was no longer cheerful and playful, - They still think that these stars were created for them. But Maingard will show them otherwise. What is the readiness?
N-sai knew that she would ask about this, and had already prepared an answer.
- 100 percent readiness, - the alien honestly admitted, - But Artandir specialists can sniff out everything.....
- No, no... What should you not do? Answer!
Dalotl turned pale. He knew that this question could be the last thing he would hear in his life. He knew that he should not. He should not doubt.
= Yes, forgive me.... - N-sai answered obediently, - I must not let doubts in. I ask... This is the last time. Please... I beg....
But the mysterious maiden did not even think of being angry with him. She smiled again, as she had in the first moments of their meeting.
- No, no... I didn't mean to hurt you.... - her scarlet lips said, - Don't be afraid of Artandir. Artandir only seems like an ancient power. I remember the day when there were voids in this place. When there was nothing here... No stars, no planets... Not to mention these huge megalopolises.... Soon everything will repeat itself. Soon everything will be like in the Ancient Days. So why should you be afraid of those who will soon disappear?
Dalotl gave the mysterious person a slight bow. By doing so, he admitted his guilt. Those who knew the customs and culture of the n-sai understood such gestures perfectly well.
- Thank you... - the submissive speech of the first mate was heard.
- It's not worth it, - the beauty grinned, - You are not like Phantom. You are faithful... Because you know who is stronger. Because you know that your race is worthy. And Phantom... he fights only for the sake of an illusion. He really thinks that I will return her to him... Let him think for now.
At the word "Phantom" n-sai involuntarily shuddered. He heard his story. Partly he even felt sorry that such a story happened to him. To lose a loved one is the worst of misfortunes. And he fought only for this.
- So, Phantom will die? - thoughts burst from Dalotl's lips.
The mysterious maiden smiled for the umpteenth time. But this time it was not at all kind. Not a drop of the previous emotions remained on her face.
- Everyone is mortal, - the answer followed in an instant, - Everyone, except for those like us. After all, we were ancient even when the first stars were born.

[BagaturKhan]

Tinglaatel System.
The border between Artandir and the Elfurr Empire.

- So you're saying your holo-computer was hacked?
Akhmanet, standing in the private cabin of the penteconter, had just listened to Fernand's entire story. Asinius had told her what had happened. Phantom had calculated everything. He had even gotten to the secret correspondence. Only the highest representatives of the Coalition could write to Eisi. For all questions, she had a common mail, which was monitored by several secretaries. The ex-president herself simply could not have read everything that was written to her.
What Phantom had done clearly suggested that he knew all the personal accounts of the Coalition representatives, and in particular those who had access to the secret archives. Fernand's account had been destroyed. The holo-computer had simply been burned from the outside. It was not possible to restore it even with the help of technologists from Artandir-Cybertech. The company's specialists could "get back on their feet" even the coils of the Smaragd era and make them perform any tasks. But even they couldn't cope here.
Luckily, Asinius had spare accounts. All vital data was actively copied and placed under a triple layer of protection. But Fernand was sure that the enemy would get to them too.
Ahmanet had no doubt that Eisi was right. The only thing that Phantom had not yet managed to do was hack the Elfurr security systems. The Admiral intended to ensure the protection of accounts and involve his experts in this. The Digit Blacksmiths were capable of a lot.
- He hacked me in literally a second, - Asinius's holo-image continued to broadcast, - This bastard is too strong. I'm ready to bet that he tried to neutralize you, too. He's everywhere. Everywhere...
- So, we'll send you Kuznetsov, - concluded Akhmanet, - I told you back at the beginning of the war that Artandir-Cybertech wouldn't protect you. But you were stubborn.
For a moment, Fernand's face turned purple. Apparently, she wanted to reproach her comrade for unfounded accusations. But then Eysi realized that this was far from the best option.
- If that's what it takes, then send your guys, - Eysi answered, - But I don't know what to do anymore. I told him what he wrote to me. Phantom was planning more terrorist attacks. Something similar came to President Salieri's email a year before the war. He immediately called me and showed me what was written. It was impossible to track down the addressee. He's been hiding for several years now. There's nothing we can do at all...
- I remember, - User-Kaf nodded, - When Salieri received the letter, literally a week later the hive fleets of Ara-Nia began to attack. Then their attacks were repelled, but this led to many casualties. Then there were strife between us and the Draconids. And then there was war. One of the bloodiest and most brutal in the Galaxy. Phantom planned all of this. And as long as he is alive, there will be no peace for anyone.
Ahmanet was touched by Asinius's words. "There's nothing we can do at all." Pessimistic, but true. The bitter truth. All these years, the Coalition has been trying in vain to catch Phantom-13. But none of the operations have been successful.
The fact that Fernand's personal account was hacked clearly indicated that Phantom has access to the high command. It is already clear to anyone that he has been commanding both sides all this time. He is somewhere nearby... Somewhere nearby. He orchestrated the war with the League, pitted entire alliances against each other, and led the galaxy to the death of billions. And he's going to repeat his "exploits" again.
- What would that mean... The destruction of the galaxy... the entire Coalition, - Fernand said thoughtfully, - I suppose it could be connected with mass terrorist attacks. Or with the use of some kind of weapon... Unknown to us. Or known.
- You're excited, - Ahmanet noted, - I don't know if this is appropriate..., but you're no longer in control of yourself.
- Yes... My wife says the same thing.
- Look, you need to calm down. I know it's difficult now. And I'll think about what can be done. And what kind of threat is this. Phantom had already written to Salieri about liberating the galaxy and destroying the Coalition. Then the events that led to the war began. It's obvious that he's planning to do something now, too.
Asinius's face smiled slightly. But Ahmanet knew that the head of the Artandir Security Council was on the verge of a breakdown. Fernand had to be an example for those around her. She was an example. But not now, not at this moment.
She was in the same state when she learned that the League had attacked the Earth Alliance. This led to a global confrontation. Several years of war and blood.
- We need to declare a level 1 alarm, - concluded Eisi, - Warn intelligence. All the specialists.
- That's what he wants, - the admiral said to this, - He wants everyone to be afraid of him.
- We have no other choice, - Asinius spoke in a harsher voice, - We are at war again.

[BagaturKhan]

---

Ishken couldn't fall asleep after what he had seen. He knew that there were still a few hours until wake-up. But sleep just wouldn't come to him. Especially after the mysterious bearded man, hanging over him, screamed shrilly about Meinhard. Ishken didn't remember who it was. He just saw this strange bearded face on the ceiling of the cabin. And when he screamed at the top of his voice, the head disappeared, and with it - the dream. Something strange seemed to Ishken. He couldn't remember where he had seen this face before. As if on the Griffin. But if there, then who was it? And was it a man? The creature's face resembled a human, only the eyes lit up with scarlet lights. "Meinhard... You can't fly to Meinhard." Ishken didn't understand why they suddenly couldn't go there. And the captain hadn't said anything about sending them to those lousy systems. Maingard had enough to worry about now.
After the Domna War, this republic was isolated from the Coalition, and only after the conflict with the League began, it was temporarily accepted back. The Maingard "upper crust" did not like the Artandirs, but preferred an alliance with their former enemies. After all, the League seemed something terrible and terrifying to them. In these days, the Maingard Council of Geronts had to make an important decision about continuing to be part of the Coalition, as well as about a possible rapprochement with Artandir and Vintil. The elders had enough to do. And no presence of the fleet was required.
Derkh suddenly thought that all this bearded head with talk about Maingard was nothing more than a figment of the imagination. He decided to go down to a small bar. It was located not far from his cabin. Although, during quiet hours, it was impossible to do this, he still decided to break the rule and drink some water. The day before, Ishken had discovered that the flask he kept with him while sleeping was empty.
Imagine Derkh's surprise when, in addition to his robot assistants, he found a not entirely sober Snofru in the bar. This short alien was sitting at a small table and slowly drinking something purple. He was, after all, a member of the high command, and was not at all afraid of sanctions. But Ishken, even though he was the captain's friend, was threatened with consequences for going to the bar like this.
Snofru noticed his comrade approaching. But he was not thinking about any sanctions.
- Tell me, - the little bearded man said slowly, - Why... Why, when you drank one glass... You pissed two at once... I'm sitting here and thinking. Why is that? You drank one, and pissed two...
- Snofru, forgive me, I just wanted to drink some water, - Ishken admitted honestly, - I've run out.
He tried not to pay attention to the words of this "gnome". Besides, he was dead drunk.
- Yes, you drink... - Snofru muttered quietly, - Don't be afraid... Owen is kind. He'll just lock you up for a day. And that's it...
- Oh well... - Derkh chuckled at this, - I'll explain. And I had a bad dream.
Snofru immediately looked at him with drunken eyes. Purple liquid was slowly trickling down his mustache and beard.
- Just don't tell me it's about Maingard again... - the dwarf muttered, and then burped thunderously.
Ishken perked up. How did this "gnome" know about his dream? And, as was known, neither Admiral Cadmus nor Captain Owen had announced any operations on Maingard. Nobody was going to go there, at least for the next six months.
Derkh remembered that mysterious face with a long beard again. It was just a dream... But it seemed as if someone or something was trying to contact and tell him something.
- What do you mean? - Ishken's puzzled voice was heard.
- That's what I mean... - Snofru muttered in response, - I've been dreaming about some kind of crap for so many nights now... Some bearded bastard is trying to tell me not to fly to Maingard... Yes, screw this Maingard... It's such a hole in the galaxy, if only you knew...
Ishken turned pale. This "gnome" described the same dream. All these dreams coincided, and this could no longer be a coincidence.
- And what kind of... bastard?
Derkh decided to find out the details from Snofru. He needed details. That would explain everything right away.
- I don't know.... - came the lazy answer, - Some dude.... with red eyes.... I don't remember, I think I saw him somewhere.... On the Griffin. I don't remember.... But for some reason he's driving me nuts.....
- So he was hovering over you and talking about Maingard? Like he was warning you, right?
- Yeah..... You get it? Like.... Don't fly to Maingard! Don't fly! And I'm telling you again, screw all this....

- It would be possible to do without expressions, Mr. Snofru.... Neferirikar.
Totkhemris appeared here as suddenly as Ishken. No one could have thought that she would dare to come here. But since she was a member of the upper staff, she was allowed almost everything. As it turned out, the elfurka did not sleep. Everyone knows that representatives of their race sleep no more than three hours.
- And where are you from... - Snofru muttered drunkenly, - We are here, like, about Maingard... Yes, about Maingard... Yes, I don't need this groin area of ��the galaxy...
Ishken didn't really like it when the "gnome" swore in front of women. But that was his peculiarity. And to be honest, Snofru swore almost always. Often, the crew members made fun of him. Asinius Fernand had practically the same habit.
- Yes, we are not going to Maingard, - Derkh said, trying to quickly move away from the topic, - We were just talking about the fact that it is better not to fly to Maingard now.
- Yes, yes, my joy, of course ... - Totkhemris said with an accent, - But the captain will not be too happy when you are sent away for a day ...
Ishken lowered his head guiltily. So, he was in trouble after all. But he did not know that User-Kaf was clearly not here for this. Of course, Derkh was guilty, but no one would send him to the guardhouse. Owen did this only once - with Viktor Kartavin, when he was rude to him.
- Maingard ... - the elfurr said thoughtfully, - And why did you remember about it?
- Yes, I had a dream, - Ishken allowed himself to look at Totkhemris, - It was just a dream. Someone told me that we should not fly there. And I thought, why should we do this? They have enough problems without this.
Snofru had already managed to finish the purple liquid. He looked at his two comrades once more, and then fell head first into the mug. Only a couple of seconds passed, and a loud snore was heard from his side.
- A dream about Maingard? - Totkhemris asked with interest, not even paying attention to the "gnome", - Strange... Humans call it "déjà vu".
Ishken shuddered. For a moment it seemed to him that User-Kaf would now also talk about it. About the very dream that he and Snofru had seen. A dream... Or a message from an unknown creature.
Moments later, Derkh realized that this was what would happen. Totkhemris walked a few meters across the hall, and then plopped down on the reclined seat.
- I dreamed it too... - she answered, - We shouldn't fly to Maingard.
- It was Cha-Arun, right? - Ishken asked unexpectedly.
He remembered the operation on the Griffin, when they rescued Owen and Balderan the Swordsman from the clutches of a monstrous entity summoned by the League and its minions. He still had memories of it.
What happened then affected everyone even more than the events on Tevkris Prime. Then Owen's team tried to pull out one mad scientist, who turned out to be a terrible experimenter and the embodiment of death itself. The League was trying to create some kind of hybrids of organics and machines. The scientist helped them with this. Fortunately, Owen and his guys did everything as they should. The madman was eliminated, and then they managed to eliminate Trotskevich.
But the events on the Griffin still did not leave Derkh's mind.
- Perhaps, - Totkhemris answered, - The face was similar. But why would he come to us? He's dead. Or... No. It was a psionic message.... And if so, then something must happen.... On Meingard.
- Let's hope nothing, - Ishken said to this, - Although until we find the Bad Guy, I think anything can happen.

[BagaturKhan]

Maingard Prime.
Maingard Union Land.
Government Palace Dungeon.

Supreme Geront Agesilaus finished his procession. Now he and Horace Denfir, the Vintilian envoy, were alone in the majestic and spacious hall. The lamps were turned off. Almost nothing could be seen.
The old ruler clapped his hands, and at his signal all the lamps in this huge room immediately lit up. It happened quite suddenly.
- I didn't know that you had psi-abilities, - Horace's surprised voice was heard, - Is this one of the secrets?
- Yes, - the geront answered, - I carefully hid this from you. I beg your pardon.
- Well, nothing, - said the fellow traveler, - The main thing is that you said.
The ambassador of the Vintilian Federation Denfir was perplexed. He had just found out that the head of the Maingard government had kept silent about his abilities. For several weeks he had seemed like a completely ordinary old man to the Vintilians. And now it turns out that he is almost a sorcerer.
- I brought you here to reveal a great secret, - Agesilaus said, pointing his finger at a small pedestal visible in the distance of the room.
- This is interesting, - said Horace, - This is something... Does it belong to a long-forgotten time?
- Perhaps, - the old man answered, - My wife loves all sorts of foreign trinkets. But this is clearly not one of them. What I want to show you now is a valuable relic. It was discovered quite recently. Unfortunately, Doctor Tilino's expedition has thinned out considerably... Traps, snares and other things. But science requires sacrifices.
Agesilaus and the Vintilian envoy approached the pedestal almost point-blank. Before their eyes appeared an incredibly beautiful spherical device, created from unknown minerals.
Horace gasped in surprise. It had been a long time since he had encountered something like this. Admiration completely and utterly overwhelmed his soul. But Denfir was a considerable collector of all sorts of artifacts left over from long-forgotten times. He loved to communicate with archaeologists, learn their secrets, and even once personally took part in an expedition to Barbariko.
- What is this? - Denfir asked in amazement.
- We do not know, - the geront explained, straightening his dark tie, - A great artifact of antiquity. A sphere. You can call it that. We discovered it literally a week before the League was bombed by Admiral Cadmus.
- What does it do? - Horace asked immediately, - Can you fight with it?
For a second, it seemed to Denfir that the room had become colder. And the reason for this could be hidden in the device. But then he quickly pushed away all unnecessary thoughts.
- We don't know for sure.
- Then what does it do? - Horace exclaimed, - And why did the expedition that tried to find it almost all perish?
- A strange device, but it can heal people, - Agesilaus said to this.
In his already quite middle-aged eyes with yellow whites, an inspired fire gaped. His gray hair was tousled.
- You know that I might not be standing in front of you now, - the old man soon continued his speech, - I could have been lying in the grave a long time ago.
- Why?
Agesilaus sighed heavily.
- This year I was diagnosed with black carcinoma, - the old man said in a mournful tone, - Even my abilities could not prevent the spread of the disease. I am already over 80. At such an age, it is incurable. This is not just cancer ... This is a disaster. And given our complicated relationship with Elfurr, we had no medicine for this... Thanks to Antonin Domna for everything... This dirty bastard. So... I deigned to touch this..... weapon. The disease retreated in moments. The very next day I was already rushing to work, full of health and vigor. Amazing, right?
- Wait... - Denfir cried out in wild amazement, - This.... This ball cured the black carcinoma?
The old man nodded.
- As soon as I touched it, the metastases disappeared. Immediately. I can give you another example. The Minister of Justice Hengist Harsaf, an Etterian, but a citizen of Maingard. He caught a purulent disease during intercourse with aliens, in particular with Kinos ladies... and let himself go. He also cured himself with one touch. This artifact cures any disease. No matter how terrible the illness, this sphere kills it.
- Amazing, - muttered Horace, - Simply amazing.....
Denfir was a psionicist himself, and had been for a very long time. He felt powerful magical waves emanating from the lying artifact. He did not see their outlines, but he felt them deep inside. The power of the Sphere was immeasurable. It's just obvious that it was created long before the galaxy was populated by humans.
- If the Coalition needs help with a disease that can't be cured, and the Elfurr prefer to be greedy, - the old man said honestly, - You can bring the sick to me, and we will allow them to touch the Sphere.
- I am grateful to you, - Denfir answered, - But it would be better... if this relic was kept in the Coalition's archives... And not with you.
Agesilaus tensed. He clearly did not like what he heard.
- I'm afraid that's impossible, - the geront said with displeasure, - We found it on Maingard. Which means the Sphere belongs to this land. We will not share it with anyone. If anyone wants to be cured, let them come to us. We can even conclude a special agreement with you... But we will not give up the relic. And this is not even up for discussion.

[BagaturKhan]

- Ah... bitch... - Denfir said, feeling the heat in his mouth, - A good bitch......
And indeed, the whiskey was quite high quality. He had gotten this flask back in New Caesarea, during his visit to the head of security Feotokius. Only one thing made Horace sad. There was only one flask.
A few seconds later, there was a knock on the door. Denfir quickly opened it and, seeing the one standing behind it, was not at all surprised. He had long been waiting for the appearance of Serae Dendrov, who was his first assistant in the group. The warrior was dressed in a dark green uniform, dark trousers and a low red cap. He was distinguished not only by his eyes, but also by his small mustache hanging down.
- Sire, - the warrior said obediently, bowing slightly, - I wanted to talk. - Come in here already, your portugaling company, - spat Denfir, - I was just waiting for you.
- Any news? - asked Serae.
- Yes, yes. Come in, why are you standing there like a virgin ready to marry?!
- You swear too much, - the assistant noted smilingly.
As soon as Dendrov entered the chief's office, the door immediately closed behind him. Vintilets was not just a warrior, but also a powerful psi-adept. He was quite capable of opening and closing doors with the power of his thoughts.
Serae and Denfir sat down at a large square table, and the envoy immediately began his story. He told his assistant everything he had seen in Agesilaus's hiding place.
Horace told Dendrov the truth. He told all the details about the power of the artifact called the Sphere... True, this was not yet the final name of the relic. When Denfir mentioned the geront's refusal to hand over the weapon to the Coalition, his lips trembled nervously. Apparently, he was too depressed by the ruler's decision.
- And he refused? - asked Serae, after listening to the story, - How could he? Poor old fart...
- He could, - answered Horace, tugging at his little beard, - He could. He is the king of kings here, not me. If I were the head of the government of this armadilloty village, I would immediately tell the Coalition about everything, and all these Elfurran "give it to us" could go to hell. But no, this bast-shoe wearer dug his claws into the relic and declared it his own. Like, we found it on Maingard, and that's it, it's ours. And what should the rest of us do? Come to them, bow and ask for treatment. And if not, suck... their paw. Or something else. Anyway, you get my point. This Agesilaus and all his Maingard hedonists are no better than all the other rulers of this hole. As much as I can remember, it has always been like this in Maingard. The people have had terrible luck with the government. Some are complete ghouls and lovers of girls.
- But how many people could have recovered! - the warrior said nervously, - How many people! My grandmother was an archaeologist and she grabbed something on Rostis... She died from a disease that affected her entire body! Entirely! No one could save her! No one! Elfurr was never given anything.
- A lot, - Horace growled with the same irritation, - This is the perfect cure! Even better than Elfurr potions. How many creatures could have been cured by barely touching the ball! I can't even imagine it.
Denfir was never a supporter of Elfurr. He always knew that they were too cunning and greedy. Naturally, if Agesilaus had told Ahmanet about the relic, she could have demanded it for her empire. The Elfurr often did just that. All ancient artifacts somehow ended up in their possession. They used almost all the methods they knew, but they got what they wanted.
Without a doubt, Elfurran medicine was top-notch. But it couldn't put you back on your feet with just one touch. This was a completely different case.
- Agesilaus is doing something bad, - Dendrov concluded, crossing his fingers, - Very bad. We need to demand the relic from the old man. That's what I would do! I would threaten them with new isolation.
- Let's try, - Horace said rudely, - Let's threaten Agesilaus. What can we do? You and I are diplomats. Diplomats only know how to threaten, right? In that case, why don't we join the pirates? Pirates are diplomatic too.
- I get it... I said something stupid.
- Of course, it's stupid. If you want, go demand the Sphere from him. And do you know what he'll tell you? Kiss my rough one! That's how you'll leave Maingard... And most likely forever.
A moment later, the envoy's private office shook noticeably. This phenomenon occurred so suddenly that Dendrov almost fell off his chair. The jolt was strong, and the sound it emanated was simply deafening.
Then the shaking began again, and this time it was much more powerful than the previous one. Horace turned noticeably pale, feeling these strange and out-of-nowhere tremors.
It looked like serious seismic activity. But according to climatologists, this area was not subject to tremors. However, there was another option - an enemy invasion.
- What are we doing? Is this an earthquake? - the assistant's frightened voice was heard.
- What are we doing? Let's get out of here!

Horace no longer remembered how he had ended up upstairs. How he had run out of the office. How he had run down the corridor. He and his comrade had acted "by inertia." Nothing to think about - just run and run.
Having somehow reached the loggia, Serae and Denfir finally reached their desired goal. They found themselves on a fairly spacious platform that could accommodate up to thirty people. Many of those present in the Gerontov palace ran up to the broken windows and began to look up in surprise.
Denfir first looked high into the sky and barely restrained himself from cursing with some furious words in his native Vintilian.
- Damn you ... - he said barely audibly.
What was revealed to everyone present on the loggia almost deprived them of their minds. What they saw made them turn pale and freeze in a daze. No one clearly expected to see this.
A strange structure of unknown origin hung over the majestic city, dotted with all sorts of buildings and pipes. It literally hung in the air. Its origin was clearly alien.
As far as Denfir knew, none of the inhabitants of the Main Galaxy moved on such inventions. The unknown ship looked like a giant cube, painted in dark tones. There were no lights on it, and this inspired fierce fear.
The cube materialized out of nowhere, and thereby led to seismic activity. Who knew what else this unknown structure was capable of.
- What kind of nonsense is this! - voices of people around were heard, - What is this... an attack? Where are the specialists? Where is the orbital support? Call the orbit immediately! Where is the army? The fleet?
- Maybe this is an Elfurr ship?
- Elfurr do not fly on cubes. This is something not from our galaxy. - I have never seen anything like this before, - Dendrov admitted honestly, - There are no ships like this in the Milky Way!
- Call the Silentis immediately! - Horace demanded.
One of Vintil's shuttles had long been in orbit around Maingard. Its captain had been working there with the permission of the local authorities. They were monitoring the situation around the planet, and at the same time monitoring the safety of the ambassadors.
- The Silentis is silent! Communication is being jammed! - came the disappointing answer.
Dendrov tried to dial all the necessary codes. He kept poking at the small holo-tablet built into his right armband. But each of his attempts ended in failure.
At that very moment, Agesilaus himself appeared on the loggia. Along with him were other gerontes, as well as local guards, clad in armor from head to toe.
- The orbit is not responding! Call the Ministry of Defense!
- The Ministry of Defense is not responding!
Agesilaus looked in horror at the alien structure hovering above the city. Then he darted towards Horace.
- What is this? - came the question, which had no answer.
- I don't know, sir, but it doesn't look like the ship we saw... - without even looking at the elder, Denfir answered, - This vessel is not identified. I don't know what it is. Or where it came from.
- Look!
High in the sky above the cube, a bright flash flashed. Then it evaporated. And for some reason, at that moment, Horace thought about something bad. A thought ran through his mind that this would be the end. The end for all of them.
A lonely planet appeared before his eyes. A strange planet that he did not know at all. And a moment later, it split into pieces. Scattered into small pieces all over space.
Denfir shuddered. A severe pain pierced his head. He barely allowed himself to stand still and not collapse. He glanced around out of the corner of his eye. His comrade Serae was already lying on the floor and convulsing terribly. Almost the same thing was happening to old Agesilaus. From the terrible apoplectic attacks, his eyes turned into scarlet dots. Dots from which blood flowed profusely.
Horace realized that he could no longer hold on. Terrible screams were heard everywhere. Cries for help. Pleas.
- Psi-explosion ... - Denfir whispered, finally guessing what exactly had befallen them.
Another minute passed, and the messenger tore himself off the floor. His body began to rapidly fill with a blindingly bright glow, and then .... Then an explosion. No less bright and blinding.

[BagaturKhan]

Artandir Prime.
The Palace of the Republic Security Council.

"We must join forces against the Phantom," Cadmus Florin declared loudly. "I have decided to deal with the villain personally. And I will not let you down. But you must help me. And not just me. The entire galaxy."
Fernand sat next to the renowned naval commander and nodded to him. She had already managed to report what had happened in the office. All members of the Security Council understood that the criminal was not so simple. If he knew even the personal accounts of the high command, then everything was available to him. Almost everything. Naturally, the Council agreed to switch completely to Elfurran security systems.
"Our enemy has not yet been destroyed," the admiral continued his speech, sitting at the head of the table. "The League Fragments are about to fall. Iabarra and all their remaining worlds are under siege. Artandir will avenge them for all our fallen. But until we find the Phantom, we can only dream of victory. If the League falls completely, the bastard will do everything to create a new one. He will try to split us once again, to quarrel... To crush us.
- I agree with the admiral, - the voice of the naval commander Violet Tertis was heard.
This girl looked about 30 years old, although everyone knew her true age. She recently turned 62. The whole secret lay in her half-Elfurr origin. Many admirals respected her for her bravery and selflessness. And they were ready to fight next to her. And everyone was attracted by her extraordinary beauty.
- It's time to put an end to this story, - Tertis said sternly, - The Phantom must be stopped.
- And with joint efforts with other powers, - Violet Asinius finished her speech, - Even with those who are not part of the Coalition. We must join forces. The entire Coalition must know that as long as the Phantom is alive, there will be no peace. He has already blown up my computer... And next time he will plant a bomb in your car... Or detonate a nuclear charge in some market. Remember Nargon? If it were not for the merits of President Shane, his entire country would have long ago turned into a terrorist stronghold.
This time it was Cadmus' turn to nod. Asinius's speeches tempted him.
- Naturally, only by united efforts will we stop the scoundrel, - Florin said menacingly, - The war is not over. Nothing is over. We will look for him... And when we find him, we will hand him over to a tribunal. And for everyone to see this trial. The entire galaxy to see his crimes. That is what we need to achieve!
- Yes! - the venerable Admiral Salerno, whose chest was occupied by nothing but medals, spoke here, - All this began long before the war with the League. But enough now! Seriously, gentlemen! Enough!
But this conversation was not destined to continue. A deafening roar of sirens was heard from the street. Cadmus, like no one else, knew what it was. This often happened during the war with the League. Either the neo-fascists, led by Olmec, launched their shells, or drones fell.
The admirals immediately stopped talking. They began to look around. One of them even ran to the open window. Cadmus and Tertis looked at the tablets built into their gloves. They clearly displayed the alarm signal. The planet was under attack. But that was not the case. We were talking about Artandir Prime, and not about some distant colony. The defense systems installed in space should have worked in time.
Seconds later, loud shots were heard. They came from the street. The air defense was working. Moreover, it was the automatic systems that were involved. It would be unlikely for living personnel to repel attacks with such speed.
The doors of the assembly hall opened, and security personnel armed with plasma fuses quickly flew into the room. One of them, a stern-looking dark-skinned lieutenant, was holding an EMP weapon in his hands. It was intended to destroy enemy drones and replicants.
- Gentlemen! Level 1 alert! Attack on the city! Leave the premises immediately!
The lieutenant's words resembled a sentence. The admirals had to obey. Obviously, the situation was getting out of control.
- Who attacked? - Cadmus asked menacingly, literally piercing the officer with his gaze.
- Thousands of drones, sir... Kamikaze drones, - the lieutenant answered, - Leave immediately! They are flying here! The speed is extremely high!
- What about planetary defense? - Violet's worried voice rang out, - Where is the Orbital Headquarters?
But the lieutenant chose to ignore her question.
- Leave immediately! Otherwise, you will all be killed here!