The Last Voyage of Thor's Hammer
My stories are copyrighted, so NO takee! This story is meant as a tribute to those who go down to the sea on ships and go in harm's way.
The Last Voyage of Thor's Hammer
By William W. Kelso
It has been almost seventy-five years since the old Empire collapsed and communication had been lost with many of the colonized worlds. Some systems had managed to stay fairly untouched by the war with the Nak and maintained a fairly high level of civilization, while other systems lapsed into barbarism. The only real good news was that the Nak had been pretty much blown back into the stone age as well. Both sides claimed victory, but neither side won. Several small independent Republics, Coalitions, Kingdoms, and other forms of government or anarchy rose out of the ruins, but none were anywhere near as powerful as the old Empire had been.
One fairly powerful coalition was the so-called Rubin Co-op, a loose coalition of several planets in several systems. There were eight planets in the co-op, three of which had advanced levels of technology, three which were in the second stages of development, and three which were basically frontier worlds. They formed a mutual support alliance with the Republic of New Israel, both agreeing to respect the others sovereignty and come to the aid of the other against any and all enemies. The Republic of New Israel was smaller with only four planets, but one had been a major Empire Fleet depot and its repair facilities had escaped serious damage. A good portion of the old Third Imperial Fleet had been home ported there and many of their remaining units and remnants of other fleets had found their way their after the collapse, and as a result they had an impressive and very modern Navy. Rubin's Co-op in turn had the raw materials the Republic needed desperately as their worlds were metal poor. So it was a mutually beneficial and supportive arrangement.
What they had not expected was for a Nak battle fleet complete with Heavies and a full complement of supporting ships to arrive unexpectedly in the space controlled by the Rubin Co-op. And to make it even worse they had several troopships and support ships with them. It was a full blown invasion fleet. One of the more powerful Nak admirals had been assembling the fleet for years and now prepared to wage war against the Humans again, starting with some of the weaker fringe worlds.
The Nak fleet quickly conquered Toulee's World and the mining world of K-12 with a minimum of trouble, only minimal, but sometime fierce, resistance being encountered. They had good reliable intelligence that the next world in line, New Denmark, would be easy pickings as at the most they had two to four older cruisers and a smattering of lesser ships for defense, and since it was a heavily populated and civilized world its riches would be most welcome. They planned to enslave the humans that survived and make it their main base. Their surprise attacks had been so swift and well executed that the humans had only just begun to realize the danger and any possible help would arrive way too late to be of any assistance. The Nak were confident of victory as they approached their next target.
It was utter chaos at the headquarters of the New Denmark DF, the sudden news from Coulee's World, and then K-12, had at first been viewed with disbelief, then growing panic. No one really knew what to do. None of the officers or staff had seen any kind of combat experience, all their experience was with peacetime duties like customs patrols and other basically police duties. They were mostly part-time volunteers anyway; and the regulars were mainly training staff. One good thing was their ships were all in good repair as space worthy ships of any kind, civilian or military were lavished with care due to their rarity. Plus the cruiser "NDV Valkeyrie" had just returned from a major upgrade and rebuild at the New Israel repair base. She was as modern as any ship in space and had had her shields upgraded as well. But even with her they only had a total of one heavy cruiser, three light cruisers, twelve destroyers and lighter escorts, and eight planetary defense platforms supported by rocket battery satellites. They had a standing army of approx. fifty thousand regulars and could call up almost half a million reservists, but the main problem was arming them. And their equipment ranged from several modern heavy and light armored brigades to infantry units armed with projectile weapons. They had less than four weeks to prepare. Any kind of large scale evacuations were impossible: using every military and civilian ship they would only have room for approx. 5% of the population. A few very rich cowards with their own private ships escaped before their ships could be commandeered for the emergency, but that was all. Their call for help to New Israel and other systems had been answered and two battle groups would be dispatched immediately, but arrival time was a minimum of seven to eight weeks even at maximum drive of which only a few newer ships were capable. They were on their own for now.
Against them was arrayed a Nak Main Battle Fleet consisting of one Super Heavy Dreadnaught and Command ship, four Battleships, six "pocket" class Battleships, fourteen heavy cruisers, sixteen light cruisers, and over 50 other battle units. In addition there were six troop carriers, fighter carriers, and over one hundred other support and auxiliary ships. The fleet carried a total of 75,000 first rate assault troops and Marines with full power armor and modern weapons, and could land four battalions of heavy armor with full aerial and other support elements.
A Nak warrior is more than a match even for a human in combat power armor as they are three times our size and their natural weapons alone are formidable. They evolved on a very nasty planet where they had to be very nasty themselves just to survive. They look something like large lizards, but have fur as they are really mammals and warm blooded like Humans, but their claws and teeth are pure carnivore. They are meat eaters, period. Because they prefer planets with the same basic environmental limits that humans do it was inevitable that the two species would come into conflict once they'd met. It didn't help either that Nak consider human flesh very tasty and succulent. It was hate at first sight.
The main thing the humans had going for them was they outnumbered the Nak about ten to one and don't know when to quit. The Nak have a very strict social code of Honor and follow it to the letter, much like the old Samurai of ancient earth legend. However they are not brave to the point of foolishness, they are crafty and cunning warriors, quick to exploit any weakness and utterly without mercy. The Nak consider most humans without "honor" as while a Nak will keep coming at you in a frontal attack until he's blown into cat food, a human will sneak around behind you and shoot you in the back or shove a grenade in your shorts. Humans don't fight fair. But some Nak who had fought humans before did know that was not always the case, and were delighted when they had the great good luck to fight an "honorable" foe. To the Nak an honorable foe is something to be cherished; they honor a valiant fallen foe as they honor their own and do not feed on a fellow warrior. The old Imperial Fleet had been as good a foe as any, fighting toe to toe and never giving ground. To die in combat against such a foe is the greatest personal honor a Nak can hope to achieve. As Nak live much longer than humans a good portion of the crew and warriors of the Nak fleet were veterans, and had a grudging respect for the "puny" humans. They knew the fight would be hardcore and brutal and were looking forward to it. They had a rather appropriate saying, "If you stick your reproductive organ into a barrel of humans you'll probably never get it back."
Admiral Thurgood Simensted was the overall commander of the New Denmark Defense Forces. He did all the correct things and ordered all reserves to full active duty status, ordered all Fleet units (such as they were) to rendezvous in close orbit, commandeered any civilian ships with enough weaponry to be put into use as auxiliary cruisers or support units, and asked that all civilians with personal weapons who knew how to use them report for duty at the nearest military or police bases. He was an excellent administrator and had done wonders with the peacetime shoestring budget he had been allocated by the government. He also knew he was totally out of his depth. He doubted their whole fleet would last fifteen minutes against the huge rapidly approaching armada. He faced the toughest quandary every commander has to face, ordering his troops to die, probably in a gallant gesture. He also knew surrender was not an option. If you surrendered to the Nak they considered you to be an "animal without honor" and ate you. At least in combat you suffered a clean death. He and his soldiers and sailors who sell their lives dearly, but the unarmed civilians would not be so lucky.
Rear Admiral Sven Borgswald, retired, was just finishing up a tour when the main battle alarms activated, the red lights started flashing and "All Hands Man your Battle Stations" blasted over the sound system. The tourists thought it was a show and clapped in polite appreciations, so he bowed and kept ushering them back into the shuttle that would return them to the surface of New Denmark. Making sure they had undocked and were safely on their way he hurried as fast as he could to the main battle bridge of "IFV-PB Thor's Hammer". He sat down in the captains and said "Report Erika!"
The AI unit responded immediately "Full Fleet assembly alarm has been broadcast by the New Denmark Defense Forces Headquarters Admiral, all units are to assemble at these coordinates and await orders. All reserve and volunteer units have also been activated as have all Police reservists. There are conflicting reports of a Nak battle fleet approaching New Denmark, estimated time of arrival 24 days, 12 hours, 37 minutes with a margin variation of approx. six hours."
The Admiral sucked in his breath, the Nak! "Erika, any reports on number and type of vessels in Nak fleet?" Then he listened in growing horror as the AI unit reported on the supposed composition of the Nak fleet. We are well and truly fucked was his conclusion.
"Erika, Run a complete diagnostic of all systems, concentrating on shields and armament. Prepare the command gig, I need to return to the surface and report for duty." The AI acknowledged, and he could have sworn it sounded eager.
As he strapped himself into the pilots chair of the command gig the Admiral had a lot to think about. Though he was 105 years old he would still offer his services to the Navy, perhaps they could use him in an advisory capacity as he was one of the few living veterans of the War with the Nak. He knew he had to at least offer no matter what they would say.
He was still wearing his old Imperial Fleet uniform as he strode through" or rather took it easy with his cane, the front doors of the DF HQ. He always wore his dress uniform when he took tourists on a tour onboard the old "Hammer" as she was affectionately known by everyone. She had been his last command in the war and she was mothballed about the time he retired. When he'd been offered a job as a the curator and tour guide, and sole full time crew member, of the old warship that was now a museum he had accepted gladly. So many memories, some good some very bad, and there was no one better qualified for the job. He had been seventy-five when he "retired" after the collapse of the Empire, and had taken the job as live-aboard caretaker when he was eighty, twenty five long years ago. He joined a large group of other officers and officials waiting to see Admiral Simenstad, and waited patiently. Some looked askance at his old Fleet uniform, but were polite out of deference to his reputation and rank. As he waited he remembered.
He had entered Fleet Service fresh out of the academy on New Caney, and had been posted to the Thor's Hammer as his first command, a fresh wet behind the ears ensign, all full of himself and proud of his shiny new uniform. He had been eager to learn and not so full of himself as he didn't pay attention to what the old hands had to teach him about the "real world". The respect he gave even those he outranked earned him their respect in turn and they did their best to pass their collective wisdom on to him. He had served on many other fleet units during his long career, returning the "Hammer" on several occasions. In the end she was his last command, and was already over a hundred years old at that point and nearing obsolescence, her useful service life ending. Her battle honors included 114 separate engagements with enemy units, twelve of them major fleet or planetary actions. She was the sole survivor of a particularly vicious battle when their greatly outnumbered task force had engaged, and defeated, a Nak invasion fleet in the Battle for Cal's World. It had been a major turning point in the war, it for this reason she had been chosen as a museum and memorial instead of being scrapped. With a cabal of other officers he had fought for, and won, limited rights for the AI Units that had served so well in the Nak War. They were after all partially composed of living human brain matter donated by volunteer donors, in this case from Erika, a young woman who had been dying of a rare genetic disorder. She had become his friend over their many years of service, and retirement, together. When the Hammer had been decommissioned she had chosen to remain onboard as the "systems maintenance" specialist as the ship was the only "home" she remembered. Her only other option had been to become the main AI unit for the New Denmark road grid, and her reply to that offer had shocked everyone as AI Units did not usually use that kind of language.
Finally, after several hours of waiting, he was finally ushered in to see Admiral Simensted. The Admiral was very polite and returned his salute as technically he did outrank Admiral Borgwald.
"Hello Sven, how have you been? How's Erika doing?" Admiral Simensted asked politely.
"Well enough Thurgood, all things considered." He replied. "What's all this I hear about a Nak fleet? I thought they were incapable of mounting that kind of force, let alone a reinforced invasion fleet, and the treaty forbids it."
Thurgood just grimaced, and said "Since when do the Nak do anything you're expecting, and when was the last time they honored a treaty? No, looks like they caught us with our dicks out again. And it gets worse; this is a full scale invasion, not a raid, looks like they plan on moving in. And frankly there's no way in hell we can stop them."
"What about the New Israel fleet, surely they'll send help? And the other systems will to if they know what's good for them." Sven replied.
"They are, the problem is they won't get here until about two weeks after the Nak, and I doubt there will be much left for them to save. Two other systems are sending what they can, but even with the whole Israeli Fleet we'd still be outnumbered. I've even pulled the old "NDV Fenris" out of retirement, not that it will do any good, just give the bastards another target."
Admiral Borgwald sat up a little straighter, and said, "You can add Thor's Hammer to your battle line Admiral, Erika is doing what she can to get her ready right now. Give me fifty good fleet sailors and I can have her in action in two weeks. "
Admiral Simensted thought, I really don't need this right now. "Your offer is most appreciated Admiral, but we've already decided to use her as a stationary defense platform. We'll mount what missile batteries we can spare plus a few pulse lasers since her auxiliary drive is capable of powering them. We'll rig her for remote control so no one will die when they take her out, but I think she'll get in a few good licks, she won't go down without a fight."
Admiral Borgwald looked at him in disbelief. "You can't mean that, she'll be a sitting duck. I know her main drive was removed, but her auxiliary is at almost one hundred percent and the main battery and most of the secondary defenses are still operational. She won't be fast, but she can still fight. Give me twenty volunteers. Just the sight of a ship that large will make the Nak more cautious and might buy us some time. Give her a chance to prove herself again, she deserves that much."
"I'm sorry Sven, the decisions been made. We just can't waste any resources on a Hail Mary like that. She's too old, too slow, outgunned, and obsolete. She's not even a first class line unit. We don't have time to modify her, and can't spare any personnel, even volunteers. We'll rig her with as many missiles and one shot pulse lasers as we can, that will give the Nak a nasty surprise. If I were you I'd pull Erika's AI Unit and find a deep hole to hide in, or if you like I can use your for a tactical advisor as I know you've fought these bastards before, your input would be greatly appreciated. "
Sven barely controlled his anger as he replied, "Thank you for the offer Admiral, send me all the data you have and I'll look it over. Right now the only thing I can recommend is to avoid a head on suicide defense. It would be gallant, glorious, and stupid. I'd take all your units and disperse them in small battle groups. Have them hide and then hit fast and hard when an opportunity presents itself. Bleed the enemy as much as possible, concentrate on the troop and supply vessels, that way they'll have to divert more battle units to protect them. If we can run them ragged it will buy time for the planetary defenses to be improved and, God help us, maybe we can hold until help arrives. For now I'll return to the Hammer and supervise the installation of the missile and laser batteries. You'll need my help as I know the old lady like the back of my hand."
Admiral Simenstad could sense the old veterans ire, "You offer was really most appreciated Sven, if we only had more time to modernize her she could make a big difference, but we just don't have the time or resources. I'm truly sorry."
Admiral Borgwald didn't say anything else, just gave a sharp salute, did a parade perfect about face, and marched from the office, forgetting his cane. As he left he was already planning, " Like HELL I'll let the Hammer just sit there like a big bulls-eye while the Nak shoot her full of holes, like HELL."
As soon as he left HQ Sven contacted Erika via the old Fleet link in his command badge. "Erika, this is Admiral Borgwald. I need a full status report on all systems except life support. Let me know which ones need the most repairs, and allocate all resources for now to the offensive and defensive weapons and the shields. Then give me the minimum repairs and material needed to get those systems as close to full operational strength as possible within two weeks."
Erika replied instantly, "I anticipated such a request Admiral. Currently main drive is off line due to core being removed, but main and auxiliary impulse engines are optimal at 98% power, main battery is off line as loading hoist is currently malfunctioning due to hydraulic leak, secondary armament is at 64% with minimum repairs required to bring it to 84%, shields are at 56%. I have prepared a list of parts and repairs essential to maximum capacity of all systems in the time limits you specified. Oh, and Admiral I have several military and civilian shuttles requesting permission to board."
"Erika, permission granted, they are there to install missile and laser batteries to supplement your armament. Give them your full cooperation. I have some errands to run here, but will be back onboard within twenty-four hours. "
I went back to my home and composed a series of encrypted emails, and then sent them. Within five hours I had replies to all of them, and left to meet my crew. We mustered at the old Imperial Fleet base outside of town in the old command bunker. I had paid to have it maintained over the years and the lights and security procedures still worked but it still had that musty smell of abandonment and neglect. I knew that soon the local military would arrive to utilize whatever it might offer in the way of defense, but we would be long gone by then.
We all arrived within one hour of one another, and by separate routes. The security precautions were probably unnecessary, but old habits die hard. They stood at attention when I entered the room, all but the one in the wheelchair and he cried out "Admiral on Deck!". I looked at the five men facing me across the briefing table. I was the oldest there, but only by a few years. The rest were only a few years younger though. We had all served together on various ships over the years and after retiring had kept in touch and formed a kind of "old vets" club whose membership had been steadily declining over the years. We were that were left now, but between us we had an accumulated experience and knowledge of almost 500 years. We had been the best, and we might be a little rusty but we weren't dead yet, and you never forget.
"What's up Admiral, we've been hearing all sorts of rumors. Figured you'd know the score though sir." Karl asked. He was former chief engineer of the Imperial Dreadnaught "Valiant".
"Men, I said, it's hit the fan big time." I called up a tactical display over the table. Several days ago a reinforced Nak battle fleet with full invasion transports was spotted heading straight for us. I know we thought they'd been too badly chewed up like we were to mount a force this large, but no one bothered to tell them. They've got heavies and everything in between. Our gallant NDV Fleet is going to fight and will no account give a good account of themselves, but you know as well as I do it's hopeless. You also know what will happen if the Nak invasion fleet reaches New Denmark, so that is not an option. I see one possible way to prevent this, and I proceeded to outline my plan, and soon they were all grinning from ear to ear. It just might work!
My crew snapped to attention again, and I handed them old Imperial briefing folders with their orders. I looked at the five rugged old veterans facing me. Commander Niles Borgson, the best computer and AI tech in the old 10th Fleet. Master Technician Rudy Garcia, best shipboard weapons systems specialist he had ever seen, the man had forgotten more then they taught at the academy. Captain Miles Thurgood, crack engineer, he could build a warp drive with a piece of tin foil and a paperclip. Master Technician Robert Lightfoot, shield generator specialist. And last, but not least, Commander Paul "Iron Man" Forrest, the last remaining officer who knew the Hammer's main armament like the back of his hand. Six old fucks and one obsolete under armed ship against an elite invasion force, God he felt sorry for the Nak.
Over the course of several days various reports were made concerning the thefts of various non-related items. But due to the current emergency the local constabulary and police forces didn't pay much attention. The list of stolen items included computer and AI circuits and other parts, industrial tools and diagnostic epuipment, relays, and other misc. The only items of real concern were some older, but still functional, military shield generators that had been listed as being stored at the old Fleet Base. But the invoice may have been wrong as it was very out of date.
We made several trips in the gig to smuggle our ill gotten goods on board the Hammer. The only problem was the field generators, but Commander Borgson made up some fake transport orders that were a work of art, and we got them delivered courtesy of the NDV. By then all the NDV techs were finished installing the rocket batteries and we had the whole ship to ourselves, and we went to work immediately.
Commander Thurgood upgraded some of Erika's systems and helped her to integrate with the laser and rocket battery systems. He ran diagnostics of all the necessary systems and made small, but vital, adjustments and improvements.
Master Technician Garcia made sure all secondary armaments systems that were still intact were up and running, most importantly the auto loading systems. He ran diagnostics, repaired or replaced worn or malfunctioning systems, and managed to bring the main pulse laser battery back on line. It would only be good for a few blasts, but it was a wicked mean weapon and would cause the enemy a lot of hurt.
Captain Thurgood, despite being in a wheelchair, soon had the main and secondary impulse engines at full power and then some. The old lady would have some get up and go. The he helped Master Technician Lightfoot install and calibrate the surplus shield generators. The generators had been meant for a dreadnaught class battleship and were much more powerful then the Hammers' original generators which were worn out, but by using both the shields would be better than they ever had been before.
Commander Forrest was in heaven as he worked on the Hammer's main armament. Being a very simple system it was in good condition despite having not been fired in many years, and the only real problem he found was the linkage in the auto loading system. It had been damaged in the last battle the old ship had engaged the enemy in, and since she had been scheduled to be decomed had never been repaired other then with basic field repairs. As soon as they were through with their own duties MT Garcia and MT Lightfoot reported to him to give what aid they could. And soon he was able to report main armament ready.
As they worked the Admiral had Erika pipe various kinds of music that he knew each veteran liked into their work stations, and she also honored any requests they made. He smiled as he watched MT Garcia dancing to the classical sounds of "Lowrider" as he worked, and grimaced as he heard bagpipes playing in main engineering. His own tastes ran to the classical, and he relaxed as the sounds of Beethoven, Handel, Mendelssohn, and Mozart filled the bridge and the captain's cabin.
I took them almost three weeks of nonstop work, breaking only to grab a quick meal or take a nap. But finally they reported "Systems ready". "Erika, he ordered, Full status report, all systems, please." Erika immediately replied,
"Report as follows. Main drive offline due to core removal, main and secondary auxiliary drives at 110% power. Main battery operational, secondary batteries at 92%. Additional armaments optimal. Shields at full power with backup generators operational. Life support systems optimal. Automatic damage control systems approx. 65% operational. Admiral, we are ready to kick ass."
"Why Erika, how unladylike!" the Admiral said in mock horror. The AI's only reply was a rather rude noise.
He knew the old ship was as ready as it would ever be given the current situation. The Nak fleet was less than a week from New Denmark now, and he planned to meet them halfway. He contacted the crew and gave them instruction to disembark, then told Erika "Prepare to leave obit and assume intercept course for the enemy fleet in one hour."
"Should I inform flight control and NDV headquarters Admiral?" Erika asked. His only replay was a rather rude noise.
One hour later to the second he felt a slight shudder and knew they had left orbit. He watched as the front viewing port swung away from a view of New Denmark to the star studded blackness of space. Almost instantly Erika said,
"Admiral, we are being hailed by NFV Headquarters and several NDV ships. Should I reply?"
"Put Admiral Simenstad through." He ordered. He watched as the command screen flicked to life. "Thurgood, how nice of you to call!"
"Damn it Sven, what the hell are you doing? Get that hulk back in orbit right now! We need those rocket and laser batteries!"
"Sorry Thurgood, but can't do that. If you want to give us any support we'd appreciate it, but I suggest you keep your ships out of harm's way until we see how things turn out."
"Jesus Christ, Sven, you can't do anything with one lousy ship, especially an old worn out obsolete piece of junk like the Hammer! What can you hope to accomplish!"
"Careful, you'll hurt her feelings. As to what I hope to accomplish, as much as possible. I plan to fly the Hammer right down their throats and make them choke!"
"Damn it to Hell, Sven you get right back here, that's an order!"
"What's that Thurgood, you're breaking up? Sorry can't hear you!" "Erika, this conversation is at an end."
"Yes Admiral, obsolete piece of junk indeed! I'd like to show him obsolete!"
"Now, now Erika, be good, no temper tantrums please." He responded.
"Yes Admiral. And we have encrypted communications coming in from various fleet units. Shall I decode?"
"Of course, let's hear what they have to say."
"Admiral, they are asking your intentions, and several are requesting orders! They want to fight too."
Well I'll be damned, the Admiral thought. "Erika, put their location up on the tactical display, including list of armament and any special capabilities." He examined the situation, then issued a series of orders that were really more recommendations. Basically he told the other fleet units to concentrate on the invasion fleet and leave the battle fleet to the Hammer. He told them to hit and run, hard, and try and bleed the enemy as much as possible. He told them not to, under any circumstances; try to come to aid of the Hammer. They understood this was a one way voyage. His orders were acknowledged. Then all he had to do was wait until the Hammer was in range of the enemy fleet.
Several hours later as he was double checking readouts he noticed that the command gig was still in its dock. "ERIKA! My readouts show the gig is still docked, how did the crew leave?"
"They didn't Admiral; all report their posts manned and ready."
He yelled and cursed at them for over an hour, ordering them to leave, and then pleading. But all he got in return was either silence, "No entienda al senor", or "Didn't think we'd let you have all the fun, did you?" After awhile they just ignored him. He finally stopped trying, tears in his eyes. "Well Erika, looks like we won't be going down alone."
"We'll be in good company sir." She replied.
The Nak Captain of the Strike Class dreadnaught "Pride of Shuran" looked up as a subordinate respectfully handed him a communication from a scout ship. The message was blunt and to the point, "Unidentified enemy heavy unit, approx. class dreadnaught, has left orbit and is proceeding on intercept course to main battle fleet. Awaiting orders. Glory to the Clan." The Nak Captain fidgeted, he knew he should report to the Strike Commander, but wished he had more information. The Commander did not like incomplete reports. Finally he contacted the Strike Commander and delivered the report. As he expected the Commander was less then pleased. His reply was, as always, brusque. "Have scout vessel close with enemy ship to determine type and armament. Glory to the Clan." The Captain acknowledged, and relayed the orders.
The Nak scout ship "Silent Death" closed with the enemy ship. The two crew members were impressed by the size of the ship and the scars of numerous old combats that it bore. Their translation unit decoded the markings on the side of the enemy ship. Having scanned the ship they transmitted that data and the ships name and classification to the main battle fleet.
The Nak Captain looked at the latest communication from the scout and hissed, he knew this name! "IFV-PB Thor's Hammer". He hissed again in growing pleasure. It appeared there would be a fight after all! He contacted the Strike Commander and requested an audience in the tactical station and his request was acknowledged. The Strike Force Commander realized such a request indicated a major development. As he entered the tactical station he saluted his superior who waited for his report.
"Strike Commander, I am pleased to report we will soon be facing an honorable opponent and blooded veteran of many battles and victories. It is the Imperial Fleet Vessel Thor's Hammer, it is the ship that broke our fleet at the Battle for Cal's World, they still sing of that great battle in the sagas."
"Indeed, said the Strike Commander, I know that name well. That ship left the cruiser "Slasher" I was serving on as Sub-Commander a drifting wreck. Yes, I know that ship well. What number and class are her supporting units?"
"Strike Commander, replied the captain, she is alone with no supporting ships of any kind. She offers herself up for single combat like a hero of old."
The Strike Commander leaned forward and stared at the tactical display. The human ships they knew of were few and far between, of no real threat. But still he was bothered, he knew the humans too well. "Have the sensors turned to full power constantly, and order out all remaining scouts. Something is not right. We shall honor her bravery, dispatch the heavy battle cruiser "Render" with her assigned units as a task force to intercept and destroy that arrogant ship."
"It will be done Strike Commander!" the Captain replied as he saluted and left the room.
"Admiral, reported Erika, we have multiple enemy units moving to engage us at maximum impulse velocity. Scans show one battle cruiser, one heavy cruiser, two light cruisers, and four other lighter class warships. Estimated time before they are in range is seven hours, twenty eight minutes, twelve seconds. Orders?"
"Continue straight ahead at maximum speed, charge the main battery magnetos to full capacity and load a slug." The Admiral replied.
"Admiral, we will be in range to engage the enemy units within ten minutes or less." Erika reported.
"Sound general quarters, condition Zebra close all combat bulkheads and activate all damage control systems. All crew not already in combat armor will don theirs immediately. Erika, broadcast "Panzer Lied" on all Nak channels, and over the PA system. Let the bastards know we're coming for them! Main battery will fire on my command!"
Captain Klash of the heavy battle cruiser "Render" was looking forward to the coming battle, this was his first command and he needed to prove himself. He was confident as his crew were all excellent well trained warriors, he had seen to that personally. They may not like him, but they would obey him without question. He examined the tactical display off the ship his task force faced, and was impressed. She had the weight of a dreadnaught, but was not as heavily armed, but still had impressive armament regardless. His first impulse was to engage head on, but stupid brave Nak did not live as long a cautious brave Nak so he dispatched some his lesser units to engage first to feel out the enemies capabilities. He watched as the heavy cruiser, two light cruisers, and four destroyer class ships to intercept and engage the enemy, then settled back to await the results.
"Admiral, they're coming in fast and moving to engage from both sides, and have launched long range missles!"
"Counter battery fire, you know what to do Erika!" The Admiral ordered.
The enemy missles streaked towards the Hammer, some of them making drastic course and speed changes to avoid counter fire, and some accelerated as multiple stages pushed them to incredible velocity. A cloud of lighter missiles answered and intercepted the majority of incoming missiles, and only one broke through to detonate harmlessly on the front shields. But the missiles had merely been a standard distraction, always worth trying but seldom successful. Now the real fighting began.
The ship shuddered from another impact as a Nak cruiser made another run. But it was not one sided as return fire savaged the enemy ship, lasers and short range missiles pounding her shields and one broke through and destroyed a weapons cluster in a large explosion. One Nak cruiser already drifted with her main systems off line from a direct hit to her engine room, and she was out of the fight for good, and the scattered remains of two destroyers added to debris field. So far the Hammer's own damage was fairly minimal, the worst being a breech to C & D decks that had caused decompression in several compartments.
"Erika! Line up the main battery on that battle cruiser, if he thinks he's just going to sit there and watch he's mistaken!" The ship shuddered again, and the secondary batteries turned another Nak destroyer into dust.
"Aye aye Admiral!" Erika barked. "Battery on target Admiral!"
"FIRE!" Sven screamed.
And the Hammer lurched as her main battery fired for the first time in almost seventy-five years. Her designation was Planetary Bombardment and her main armament was a rail gun that stretched almost the entire length of the ships center. The huge magnetos propelled a solid ten ton "slug" made of Teflon ceramic coated solid nickel silver with a center of spent uranium that left the ship at a speed close to half that of light, and there was no way the enemy battle cruiser had time to respond. Though meant to bombard hardened enemy positions or population centers on a planet under siege; the same projectile could be devastating to ships.
Captain Klash sat up as alarms went off, Incoming unidentified projectile! Counter fire ineffective, impact ten seconds! "Emergency evasive maneuvers, execute!" he screamed, but it was already way too late.
To his credit his well trained crew actually started to turn the "Render" from the path of the projectile, but it was hopeless. The huge projectile punched through the shields shorting the generators, then through the ship like it was tissue paper, emerged from the other side and sped off into deep space. The ship drifted for a few minutes, and then the main dive bottle lost containment and the whole rear half of the ship imploded silently as a black hole sprang into existence for a split second before destroying itself. The one remaining undamaged Nak light cruiser and three lesser warships turned and headed back towards the main fleet, thus conceding this battle to the enemy vessel.
The Captain of the "Pride of Shuran" looked at the tactical display in shock. The dot representing the "Render" had just disappeared, and the remaining fleet units were retreating! The communications officer broke his concentration,
"Captain, communication from the heavy cruiser "Might of the Kin"; he is drifting and helpless and requests assistance."
The Captain replied almost absent mindedly, "Dispatch a fleet rescue and salvage ship with escorts." He dreaded making his report to the Strike Commander.
The Strike Commander hissed in dismay as he read the casualties report. One heavy battle cruiser, one cruiser, four lesser warships destroyed. One heavy cruiser badly damaged and likely unsalvageable. Damage to enemy vessel estimated to be minimal. He had expected losses, but also victory. He tapped his claws against the armrest as he considered his next move.
With only a few hours to go until the enemy fleet was within range the Admiral ordered Erika to broadcast a request for contact on all Nak frequencies. He had put on his best dress uniform with all his decorations, including his ceremonial sword. They had detected the Nak scout ships coming in for a closer look, but had reframed from firing on them; let them get a good look. He knew the Nak would recognize the Hammer, and he counted on that. Shortly he received a response, and opened a hailing channel. He stared at the furry reptilian creature staring back at him, and said,
"You have the honor of addressing Admiral Sven Borgswald of the Imperial 10th Fleet commanding the Imperial Fleet Vessel Thor's Hammer. If you will turn about and leave this system I will refrain from destroying you as I did the puny weaklings you sent against me. Communication ends." Then he sat back to wait.
The Nak communications officer blinked. Such insolence! He smiled; he would relish passing this communication on to the Captain. He relayed the message to the command chair and sure enough the Captain's outraged hiss echoed across the bridge. As expected the Captain sent him the order to open a direct line to the enemy ship and pipe it through to the command screen. My pleasure thought the communication officer.
The Admiral waited for several minutes, and then answered the repeated hail. He instantly recognized a high ranking officer from the harness the Nak was wearing. Good. Before the Nak could speak, he said "What do you want underling, you try my patience!" And then waited.
Captain Canrak looked at the human in the screen, and then realized is jaw was hanging open shocked disbelief as he hissed. "Human animal, I am Captain Canrak of the "Pride of Shuran"" and then stopped in disbelief as the human dared to interrupt!
The Admiral broke in "I will not waste my time talking to an inferior; tell your Strike Commander I will treat only with him. Communication ends." Boy will that piss them off, he thought. And he was right. "Erika, broadcast "Mars, God of War, from the Planet's Suite on all Nak channels, and for us, Mozart's Piano Sonata in C."
"With pleasure Admiral." She replied.
Every officer and rating on the bridge cringed as the Captain gave a shrieking hiss of rage and stood up. How DARE that human address him so, and those officers who had overheard also hissed in anger. Such disrespect! Had a junior Nak officer addressed a superior so there would have been an instant death challenge. Nak promotion was based not only on skill and experience, but also on fighting skill. Because of this only the most ruthless and skilled warriors rose to higher ranks. The Captain started to contact the Strike Commander, but the Commander just replied,
"I heard. Put me through to the human ship on a direct link Captain."
"It will be done Strike Commander" the Captain respectfully replied. He ordered the communications officer to do so, and then settled down to wait and see what developed, still hissing in anger at the terrible insult.
The Admiral waited until Mozart had finished, then told Erika to acknowledge the Nak's hail, but to tell the Nak to wait for a minute thus adding insult to injury.
The Nak communications officer paled, tell the Strike Commander to wait? Not on his watch. He also listened to music the human ship was broadcasting on all channels. The Nak often broadcast war chants or martial music to help jam an enemy's communications and cast fear, but this was the first time he had heard of humans doing the same. "Captain, I respectfully request that you listen to this music the enemy is broadcasting, I believe it is a challenge." Pipe it to the bridge channel so all may hear was the Captains reply.
The Nak listened to the music, it was unusual but there was no mistaking the intent. It said to them, "I am coming, prepare for war", and they hissed their approval.
Finally the communications officer felt enough time had passed, so he patched the human communication to the Strike Commanders screen. Then he waited for the expected explosion of rage.
The Admiral had his back to the screen when it chimed to let him know he had someone waiting to address him. "I am busy, you waste my time. Why has your puny fleet not turned to run?" He said. He heard a hissing laugh, and turned to face the screen.
The Strike Commander looked at the human on his screen as his command chair rotated to face the communication console. He was old for a human but his martial stance and discipline was crisp, and he wore the uniform of the old Imperial Fleet and from his decorations was an accomplished warrior. Yes, the Nak thought, a worthy foe to be sure. "Let us dispense with the insults for now human, I recognize you as a warrior of equal status. Let us converse as civilized beings. Your little victory was most impressive."
The Admiral looked at the Nak, and broke into a big grin. "Well by Mars, God of War, is that Commander Kliftar I see before me, I thought you were dead old friend. I certainly did my best to kill you at Cal's world!"
The Nak narrowed his eyes and took a closer look at the human. He knows me? Then he suddenly realized, "Commander Borgswald! I also thought you dead as well, my cruiser savaged your ship most severely." Is it not strange how two old foes can consider one another friends of a sort.
"Actually it's Admiral Borgswald now, and from your harness I see you've moved up in the hierarchy somewhat you old lizard."
"Yes indeed, I am now Strike Commander of this battle fleet. You have aged old friend, I forgot that you humans have such short life spans. But you are still as feisty as ever, I must say I approve."
"Strike Commander, I am impressed. They could do no better for a leader. But why are you doing this Kliftar, I thought you would have realized by now just how futile that stupid war was. It destroyed both our Empires."
The Nak inclined his head at the compliment, from so gallant a foe it was to be treasured. "I agree in principle, but it was glorious was it not? And as you know my kind live for that glory, it is what we are."
"And we live to kill Nak, it is what we are. And you know we can be very good at it." The Admiral replied. "Be warned, I will not let you have this world, it is mine and all on it are under my protection. I already demonstrated my ability to enforce this protection."
"A brave and worthy boast Admiral, but surely you jest as you have but one; while most impressive, ship. I command a battle fleet. I make this offer, if you will turn aside I will allow your ship to leave unmolested, for old time's sake."
"You insult me old friend, did you really think I would consider running?" The Admiral replied.
"No, I did not, but I felt compelled to make the offer. I was hoping you would not accept, and was not disappointed. Your last battle will be most fitting I am sure. A brave; but futile, gesture but as you know we Nak admire such. I am sure it will find a place in the sagas."
"You have me wrong old friend, I do not plan to die without winning this battle. I issue challenge, from one warrior to another. Send forth your champion and I will do single battle with him. The winner take all."
"Interesting, that is mostly a ceremonial ritual. And if I refuse?" The Strike Commander replied.
The Admiral replied, "Then I will name you coward and egg stealer, killer of the young and helpless, to be shunned by all true warriors."
The Nak hissed angrily, his tail slashing back and forth. Yes, this human did indeed know his kind. To be called such was the ultimate insult, and must be answered with blood to the death. "Then I accept your challenge, human, but you will face me personally, I will send no other in my place! You will face the "Pride of Shuran", the greatest ship in the Nak space fleet. We will tear your belly out and leave you drifting in space as a warning!"
"Then "IFV Thor's Hammer" accepts the challenge with a salute to its worthy opponent. Let the battle take place here and now, and victory to the stronger."
"The "Pride of Shuran" accepts your salute and returns it. We accept your challenge, and victory to the stronger." Strike Commander Kliftar replied.
"Erika, put the crew on screens. I want to address them." He waited until his five crewmembers were on line. "Erika, this is for you too. OK you lousy bunch of mutinous miscreants, I don't know why but you've chosen to get your asses shot off along with mine. I've issued a challenge directly to the enemy Strike Commander and he has accepted. Our opponent will be the Nak super heavy class dreadnaught "Pride of Shuran" and she outweighs us in every way. I doubt we'll get another shot with the rail gun as that was sheer luck. But if we can get in close enough we can punish her with our secondary's and overwhelm her missile defense by sheer numbers. If we win the enemy fleet will leave the system for parts unknown, if we lose, well you know the consequences." The five men in the screens, every one wearing full Imperial Fleet combat armor, saluted and he returned their salute."
Strike Commander Kliftar ordered the communications officer to pipe his announcement to all quarters. "Warriors of the "Pride of Shuran", hunters and victorious all. We had been issued a challenge by a tried and proven foe, and I have chosen to accept for the honor of the clan. It is a fight to the death; if we lose the fleet will leave this planet unmolested. Who will follow me? Glory to the Clan!" Every officer on the bridge and every rating down the lowest all replied with loud roars of "Where you lead, we follow! Glory to the Clan!"
The Strike Commander ended his announcement with "To lead such warriors is a privilege!" To which the crew replied "To follow such a leader is an honor!"
Then he issued his first battle commands. "As soon as we are within range of the human ship launch all stealth missiles and drones, then open with main batteries when they come to bear. Hit him hard and fast, we must overwhelm his defenses. His armor is impressive, so we must batter him into submission!"
"Erika, fire the rail gun as often as you can, I want him guessing and dodging, keep him off guard. Wait until we get close to fire the secondary's, we need to cause maximum damage, no reason to waste shots at long range. Robert, you keep those shields at maximum, they're our main defense." The Hammer shuddered as the main battery fired, another ten ton slug shooting into space.
The "Pride of Shuran" nimbly dodged the great projectile, her missile bays spitting dozens of cruise and stealth missiles in addition to decoy drones. Estimated time to impact, two minutes.
"Admiral, numerous incoming missiles and other projectiles, some in stealth mode. No way can we stop them all, brace for impact!" Erika reported. The Hammer suddenly shuddered under several impacts and alarms began to sound. Damage control robots and automatic systems kicked in to try and extinguish fires and make repairs.
"Erika! Damage report!" The Admiral ordered.
"Heavy damage to port loading bays, minor damage to No. 3 engine nacelle, no damage to main systems. We're still hot Admiral!"
"She's going to try and pass to port and underneath, as soon as she does roll to bring our secondary batteries to bear and launch every missile we have! Maximum emergency power to port shields!"
As the "Pride of Shuran" closed with the enemy they could see the flashes and explosions of impacts on the enemy vessel and the crew cheered. The Strike Commander said "Do not celebrate yet my warriors, we have hurt her but a wounded warrior is a foe to respect as he will fight all that much harder. As we come to bear fire all port batteries and remaining missiles. I want her gutted! Glory to the Clan!"
As they crossed the two ships exchanged the equivalent of broadsides, each firing every weapon as they came to bear. Normally such a battle would be fought at much greater distances, but this was a matter of Honor and as such the Nak would close with their enemy as close as possible. A challenge had been issued and accepted, to do less would be an insult to their foe. Like two ancient sailing ships they exchanged broadsides at point blank range, each ship taking horrendous damage.
The Admiral gripped his command chairs armrests as the Hammer reeled and shuddered from the tremendous forces wielded against her, but she gave as good as she got. Hundreds of missiles lanced out at the enemy vessel and at such close range many found their target, lasers and secondary rail guns spit death at the huge enemy ship, her shields flaring from the punishment, finally failing in places to let some of the merciless bombardment through. Alarms sounded as automatic damage repair and firefighting units activated to try and limit the spread of fires and contain damage as much as possible.
The Strike Commander issued commands as his and the enemy vessel traded broadsides, the "Pride of Shuran" trembled as enemy missiles and other weapons punched through their shields in place, the sheer volume of fire impossible to completely deflect or absorb. An alarm went off as a section of shield failed completely and two enemy missiles impacted, following instantly by pulse lasers that dug deep into the ships guts. "Close all fire doors, seal all compartments on decks six to ten! He ordered. Damage control, report!"
The two ships finally passed one another and traded a few parting shots as each began to turn for the next engagement.
"Erika! Damage report, all stations report!" Seven ordered.
"Admiral, we have lost 30% of the port secondary batteries and expended more than 75% of missiles. MT Garcia does not answer and his life sign vitals are flat lined, I'm sorry sir."
"Don't be Erika, he always wanted to go down with a six-gun in his hand, and he made them pay for the privilege. They'll try to bring their starboard batteries to bear and pass on our own starboard side. Tell Robert to direct full shield power to our starboard side, and have Commander Borgson see if he can do anything with the port side batteries. Keep an eye on her, she's more maneuverable and might try to cross our "T", but if they're stupid enough to try have to main battery ready.
The Strike Commander hissed as he read the damage report readouts. Bad, but not as bad as it could have been. Major damage on two decks, but all weapons systems still on line and responding. Forty warriors had died in battle adding their names to the clan's list of honor. The enemy vessel had turned and was facing his ship again, but had slowed her speed. So, he wants me to come to him does he, then he shall get his wish!
Again the two great ships exchanged massive blows at point blank range, each trying to find a chink in the others defenses. And again each sustained damage to varying degrees before they broke apart to prepare for the next engagement.
"Erika, report!" the Admiral called. At first there was no response, and then she came back on line.
"Admiral, main com system is down so have switched to secondary. Moderate damage to shields, but one missile penetrated and there is damage to the main shield generator. MT Lightfoot reports fire in the main shield compartment, but he says he has it under control. Commander Borgson reports he has restored Port side batteries to 85% power. Several compartments on "B" deck are open to space, but there is no major systems damage. Starboard missile batteries down to 10%."
The Strike Commander listened grimly as damage reports scrolled down his screen. More warriors had died, and his ship had taken more severe damage. The most worrisome was a direct hit to one of the weapon system power generators on the starboard side. A lucky enemy missile had penetrated through a previously inflicted hole in her armor. Because of this their starboard batteries were down to 20% power, and until damage control parties made repairs they needed to avoid engaging on that quarter at all costs. On the bright side the enemy ship had also sustained major damage, and scanners showed fires raging on several of her decks. But she was not out of the fight, and even now was turning for another run.
As the two ships passed port to port they exchanged fire with every weapon they could still bring to bear. Just as they were about to disengage the Nak ship fired the last of her cruise missles and one managed to penetrate the shields and passing through the already damaged loading bay detonated deep in the ships guts. A huge geyser of flames and debris blossomed from the side of Thor's Hammer and most of her power systems failed and she began to drift out of control.
Admiral Borgswald was almost thrown from his command chair as the ship began to slew to one side, completely out of control. The damage control display lit up like a pinball machine and the main lighting died to be replaced by the dimmer glow of backup emergency lighting. He instantly knew his ship had taken a mortal wound.
"Erika, what happened!" he yelled.
"Admiral, we've take a direct hit amidships. Most of the internal sensors are off line, but initial reports indicate the main shield generator room has been destroyed and MT Lightfoot's bio signs have flat lined as have Commander Forrest's. Main armament is inoperative and not repairable; there is no power to shields or secondary weapons. We still have some missile launch capacity, but are down to less than 5% munitions. Engineering reports engines on line, but we have lost navigation and maneuvering. We're dead in space Admiral. Estimated time to repair secondary weapons systems is two hours." And for the first time he could remember Erika sounded worried.
"Erika, tell Capt. McKenzie to try and reach the gig, I doubt the Nak will fire on an unarmed vessel that small. And Erika, I want you to jettison your life support capsule and wait for pickup. Switch all responding systems to manual or computer control"
"Admiral, responded Erika, Capt. McKenzie reports the blast doors to engineering are jammed. And your command for me to jettison my life support capsule is illegal and I respectfully refuse to obey."
"Erika, damn it, I want you out of here!" the Admiral said.
"To order a crew member to abandon his position while his ship is engaged in combat is an illegal order and violates Articles 4 and 7 of the Imperial Fleet Regulations. This is a combat vessel of the Imperial Fleet and I refuse to abandon my position in the face of the enemy."
"Damn it Erika, you always were an insubordinate waste of space!"
"Yes Admiral, I had a good teacher."
"Erika, get me McKenzie on the com. I need to have a talk with that crazy old Scotsman."
"Aye aye Admiral." And a few seconds later she said "I have a com line open the main engine room, but Capt. McKenzie isn't responding. However I am picking up what I think is supposed to be music."
"Put it on the speaker." The Admiral said. Then he grinned as the sound of bagpipes playing "Scotland the Brave" echoed throughout the bridge.
"MAC! You loony old coot, quit killing those cats and respond!"
"Admiral, is that you?" came the reply.
"You were expecting maybe the Nak Strike Commander? Of course it's me Mac." The Admiral replied. "Mac, can you dampen down the engines and turn off every system including life support? Make us look deader than we are? I want the Nak to think we're a corpse ready to be picked clean."
"Aye, I can do that Admiral. Going to lure them in for a sucker punch are we?"
"On the nose Mac, the old girl's got one last trick up her sleeve. When I give you the signal, full emergency power to engines, cut all other systems, got it?"
"Aye, she'll give you all she's got Admiral, just give the word!" and the Admiral could almost see the predatory grin on the old highlanders face.
"Erika, power down and turn off all systems except the com, but before you do open the bridge blast screen. I want to look that bastard in the face."
"Admiral, if I shut down life support you will run out of oxygen in approx. four hours."
"More than enough time Erika, more than enough."
The Strike Commander hissed in delight. All scans showed the enemy vessel was without power and her main drive pile was dampened. He could see her drifting helplessly, great fires raging in breeched compartments and blasting out into space so long as they had oxygen to burn. Her hull was cratered and pitted from numerous strikes, and under magnification he could look deep into her bowels. He could hear the cheers of his crew and felt pride in his warriors. They began to beat on their harnesses and call his name. So he activated the public address system and addressed the crew.
"My fellow warriors, today we celebrate another great victory for the Clan! Glory to the Clan!" And he waited as the ship rang from the crew's response, "Glory to the Clan! Glory to Strike Commander Kliftar!" At the accolade he grinned. To command such warriors was indeed an honor. Getting to his feet he left the command center and moved to the bridge. As he entered the bridge Captain Canrak and the bridge officers all stood and beat on their harness in salute, feral grins on their toothy muzzles. Even the ratings still at their positions added their own salutes to the din. The Strike Commander said,
"Captain Canrak, your warriors fought well and have won honor for the Clan this day. Your own performance was exemplary and without fault. I now give you the honor of finishing off our gallant foe. We will not board, there is no reason."
To reward able subordinates was always a good strategy. Loyal followers were key to maintaining high rank in the Nak military. Those who hogged all the glory soon found themselves to be among the honored dead.
Capt. Canrak hissed in anticipation. The foe had fought well and hard and would be given an honorable death, as was fitting. He gave crisp commands to the helm to maneuver The Pride in closer to the crippled enemy vessel. It was time to end this.
Commander Kliftar sat down in the auxiliary command chair to watch the human vessel be given the final blow, the "coup de grace" as the humans would say, a term he was fond of.
Admiral Borgswald sat in now dark bridge, the only illumination coming from a few independently powered emergency lights. The majority of the control consoles were black, except the main engineering which indicated "At Ready". He spoke to Erika,
"Erika, open the main port blast shields."
"Aye aye Admiral" replied Erika as she complied.
Admiral Borgwald watched as the huge enemy ship slowly turned to face the Hammer head on, moving in for a close look. He grinned to himself, arrogance! He knew his enemy well. He mused out loud,
"It's a beautiful ship, isn't it?"
"Yes Admiral, said Erika, most impressive."
"A shame it has to be used for such destructive purposes." The Admiral said softly. "Erika, hail the enemy vessel and inform them I wish to speak to Commander Kliftar."
The com officer respectfully waited for the Commanders acknowledgement, and then said, "Commander, the alien Captain wishes to address you."
"Admiral, he is an Admiral, Commander Kliftar replied, and yes, I will accept his communication."
"Well, said Admiral Borgswald, it would appear that our battle draws to a close. My compliments to your crew, they fought well."
There were hisses of appreciation from across the bridge, a beaten enemy who complimented his victorious foe was worthy of respect. Several Nak nodded to one another in approval. Commander Kliftar noted this, and had no complaint.
"Yes, they did, they have brought honor to the Clan. Not one turned his neck to the foe. And I too must compliment you on your exemplary conduct as well. You fought hard and well, it will be a battle to remember in the Clan sagas. I offer you this, surrender and I will rescue you and your remaining crew from your ship before we destroy it. You will be treated with respect due your station, as fellow warriors."
"Well said Admiral Borgswald, I appreciate the offer. However, the only problem is my crew doesn't want to surrender, and the battle is not over yet. There is an old saying amongst the navies of my race, a quote from a great captain who commanded old seagoing vessels of wood and sail. You may have heard of it, it goes like this "I have not yet begun to fight!"
"ERIKA, MAC, FULL POWER TO THE MAIN DRIVE! FIRE ALL REMAINING WEAPONS! RAMMING SPEED! And Erika, broadcast "The Minstrel Boy" on all channels!
"AYE AYE ADMIRAL!" replied Erika.
"YOU'VE GOT ALL SHE'S GOT LEFT" said McKenzie, "THE OLD HAMMER STILL HAS A LOT OF LIFE LEFT IN HER! GIVE THEM HELL ADMIRAL!"
The Nak tech blinked at his screen, double checked the readout, and then screeched at the Captain.
"Captain, power spike in enemy vessels main engineering, enemy vessel is accelerating at increasing speed! Impact in five minutes!"
Captain Canrak started to rebuke the technician for breaking communication protocol by not relaying his message through his division officer, but when he understood the contents of that frantic message he stood up and started yelling orders,
"Raaawwrrr! Full emergency power to port thrusters and attitude boosters, full power to front screens, fire all weapons as they bear!"
But it was too late for that, far too late. The Pride had been holding her position facing the enemy vessel, and it takes time even in space for such a huge object to gain momentum. Thor's Hammer on the other hand had only to go straight forward, which took far less power or time. A collision was inevitable.
Commander Kliftar just sat in his command chair, numb in shock. He knew what the enemy commander was doing; he was sacrificing his life and his ship for victory, the ultimate honor for him, and the ultimate show of respect for a foe. He had not thought humans possible of that act. He listened to the words of the song the human vessel was transmitting over all channels, and it sounded very much like one of his own Clan's sagas. He realized now he had greatly underestimated his foe. He looked at the warriors under his command as they frantically tried to turn their ship from the path of the oncoming juggernaut, but knew it was hopeless. Finally he snarled, and then standing he saluted the small figure he could see on the bridge of the oncoming vessel, and roared his last cry of defiance, his death cry. But it was also a roar of respect for a brave enemy.
One by one officers and ratings stood to join him, all roaring their defiance as death came to claim them. They felt no fear, only pride at dying in such a great and glorious battle, that they would bring great honor to the Clan and die at the fangs of a worthy opponent.
Admiral Borgswald watched as the Hammer rapidly closed with the enemy vessel. He fondly ran his hand over the worn armrest of his command chair, and softly said,
"Well old girl, looks like the Hammer will be heard from again one last time."
"Admiral, said Erika, Capt. McKenzie wants to know if we're on course."
The Admiral smiled, "Tell the old reprobate we're going right down their throats, that'll make his day."
"Aye aye Admiral, and Admiral, I love you." Erika replied.
"I love you too Erika" he replied as the collision alarms began to wail.
The explosion was seen as far away as New Denmark, a brief new star in the sky as The Pride of Shuran's main drive lost containment and imploded, setting off both ships nuclear drive piles in brief nuclear glory. There were no survivors from either ship.
The Nak battle fleet; honoring the terms of engagement, returned to the main invasion fleet which was still suffering hit and run attacks from NDV ships. They rendezvoused, and left the system at full standard drive before jumping for their next destination.
The Battle for New Denmark was not a large or decisive action, it was fought by the remnants of two great races that spent their rage on the shields of their foes to no benefit to either side, and there were no winners. But when the word spread of that desperate battle, and of the sacrifice of an old obsolete ship with a small volunteer crew of equally obsolete old men, the Nak finally came to realize that their foes were worthy of the same honor and respect they gave one another. This realization eventually led to true peace between the two races as each came to understand they weren't so different after all. As allies; and eventually, friends, their new Empire would spread farther than both of the old ones combined and bring peace and prosperity to thousands of worlds.
In the main courtyard of the old New Denmark Defense Force headquarters is a simple monument to the crews of two brave ships that died fighting for what each believed in. It is a great honor for the cadets, both human and Nak, who are chosen to clean and polish the two large bronze statues of two warriors facing one another and shaking hands. The inscription on the base is short "With Respect comes Understanding, with Understanding Comes Peace".
The End
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