One Wrong Transmission… An Entire Human Flee

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1:11The lights and the massive space station blinked in patterns that look like breathing. Trade station X7 floated in the darkness between stars, a giant metal flower with arms reaching out in all directions. Ships came and went like busy. In six carrying goods and people from one world to another inside the station, beings from dozens of different planets work together. Some looked like walking crystals that sang when they moved. Others were soft and round, floating in bubbles of water. There were tall thin creatures with too many arms and small, fuzzy ones that scurried around on six legs. All of them lived. In peace here, trading and talking and learning from each other, Settersat in the communication center, her crystal body catching the light from dozens of screens. She was young for her kind, only 300 years old, and this was her first job away from her homeworld. Her people, the harmony collective, were known throughout the galaxy for their gentle nature and their ability to understand any language. That made them perfect for working in places like X7 where so many different species came together. The day had been quite so far. A few cargo ships had asked for landing permissions.

2:12Some traders had sent messages about prices for rare. Metals, a scientific vessel, had requested supplies for a long journey to study distant stars. Normal, peaceful business thought, then the strange signal came through dot at first. Saffer almost ignored it. The signal was weak and broken, full static and gaps. It was coming from the outer rim of the galaxy from a place that most civilized beings avoided. The star-chots marked that area with warnings and dozens of languages. Dangerous systems, they said, hostile environment. Quarantine zone, do not enter. But something about the signal made her pause. There was a pattern to it, a rhythm that suggested intelligence. Someone was trying to communicate. Saffer turned up the power on her receivers and tried to clean up the signal. Slowly, words began to form out of the static. The language was unlike anything in the galactic database, but her people had a gift for understanding meaning even when they didn't know the words. This is command of Sarah Chan of the UES to find the voice said. It was female, as I thought, though it was hard to be sure with alien voices.

3:14We are stranded and requesting immediate assistance. Any friendly vassals in range please respond. Repeat, this is the UES to find requesting aid. Our position is. A string of numbers follow, coordinates in a system that Saffer didn't. Recognize, but could translate into standard galactic positioning, Saffer felt her crystal heart pulse faster. This was a real distress call. Someone was in trouble out there in the dangerous part of space. She had been trained for the situation, but she had never expected to encounter it. So soon in her career following standard, emergency protocol, she immediately sent the signal to her supervisor, a wise old being called Kriall and who belonged to the pacifist coalition. Kriall and I have been working in galactic communications for over a thousand years and had handled every kind of crisis imaginable. The elderly being studded the signal with his large gentle eyes. His species looks something like a cross between. A turtle and a wise old tree with buckle-like skin and movements so slow this seem like meditation. This is most unusual, Carl and said in his deep, thoughtful voice. I have never heard of the species before. Human, they call themselves, it seems. And the ship named you, the S defiance.

4:16What could you, the S mean? Suffer ran the lettuce through the computer systems, trying to find a match in any known language. I cannot find a translation on a Trelan. Perhaps it is a designation system we have not encountered before. Kriall and nodded slowly. The coordinates placed in deep in the quarantine zone. No civilized species ventures there. The radiation levels alone would kill most of us, and the gravitational anomalies make navigation nearly impossible. What kind? But beings could survive in such a place. Perhaps they are explorers who became lost, Zephyr suggested. Or maybe their ship was damaged and pulled off course. Possible, Creel and agreed. But I sent something different about the signal. The voice, the way she speaks, there is a strength there that I have not heard before. Most beings in distress. Show fear or panic. This commander, Chansan's dot dot, d'entraled. Determined. Zephyr listened to the signal again. Kriall along was right. The voice was calm and clear, even though the speaker was supposedly stranded in one of the most dangerous parts of the galaxy.

5:18There was something almost military about the way she spoke as if she were used to giving orders and difficult situations. What? Should we do? Zephyr asked. Kriall wasn't quite for a long moment. His ancient mind working through the possibilities. With follow-prod call, he said finally. All civilized beings have a duty to help those in distress. No matter how strange they might seem. Send the signal to all ships in the area. Other at the Galactic Rescue Coalition. Unprepareful communication package about our peaceful intentions. Yes, on at Kriall along. Zephyr began working at her console, her crystal fingers dancing over the controls. She sent out the general broadcast to all vessels within range, explaining that a distress signal had been received and asking any ships. Capable of providing assistance to respond, a Galactic Rescue Coalition was contacted next. There were a group of volunteers from many different species who had dedicated their lives to helping beings in trouble. The ships were fast and well equipped for dangerous rescue missions. Finally, Zephyr prepared a standard first contact package. If these humans were a new species,

6:19they would need to know that the galaxy was full of peaceful beings who meant them no harm. The package included basic information about galactic law or trade agreements, and most importantly, the universal declaration of peace that almost every civilized species had signed taught us she worked. Zephyr found herself wondering about these mysterious humans. What did they look like? How had they managed to survive in the quarantine zone? Were there many of them, or was this commander-champard of a small exploration group? The signal continued to repeat every few minutes, always the same convoys, asking for assistance. There was something about it that made Zephyr feel both curious and slightly uneasy, though she couldn't explain why. The broadcasts have been sent, she reported to Krillin. Several rescue ships are already changing course to investigate. The fastest should reach the coordinates within three standard days. Good, Krillin said. Now we wait and hope that helper us in time. But even as he spoke, Krillin fell the strange sensation in his engine mind. In all his centuries of experience, he had learned to trust his instincts. And right now those instincts were telling him that something was not quite right about this.

7:22Situation, the signal itself, was puzzling. It was too clear, too controlled, for a real emergency, and the location, why would anyone be exploring that particular area of space? There was nothing there but radiation, dangerous gravitational fields, and the remains of dead stars. Moreover, there was something about the voice that bothered him. Commander Chun spoke with an authority that suggested she was used to being obeyed without question. That kind of confidence usually came from beings who had significant military experience. But what kind of military force would venture into the quarantine zone? As the iris passed, more ships responded to the broadcasts. The rescue coalition sent the fastest vessel, a sleek ship crew by the Healing Wings, a species known for their medical expertise. Several trading vessels volunteered to help, along with the science ship that happened to be studying stellar. Phenomena and an nearby system. All of them began a dangerous journey toward the coordinates that Commander Chun had provided. None of them suspected that they were flying toward a meeting that would change the galaxy forever. On Nexus 7, life continued as normal traders bought and sold their goods.

8:24Diplomats held meetings about trade agreements and scientific cooperation. Children from different species played together in the station's parks, their various forms of laughter filling the air. But in a communication center, Sifre found herself listening to the repeated signal over and over again. Each time, she heard it. She noticed something new. The slight accent in the way Commander Chun spoke. The efficiency of her words is as if she were used to communicating important information quickly at a complete absence of fear in her voice. Honored Krillian, she said finally, I have been thinking about this signal. Yes, young one. This Commander Chun, she does not sound like any explorer I have ever heard. She sounds like a warrior. Krillian turned his ancient eyes toward her. That is a troubling thought. But remember, some species are naturally more aggressive in their communication patterns. It may mean nothing, but what if it means everything? Death are asked. What if these humans are not peaceful explorers at all? Kralun considered this carefully. Even if that were true, we have done the right thing. The law is clear at all.

9:25Beings in distress must be helped regardless of their nature. We cannot simply leave someone to die because we fear what they might be. It's after nodded, but she could not shake her groin and ease. Some were deep in her crystal being, she felt that they had just set something in motion that could not be stopped. The signal continued to repeat, common patient, like a hunter waiting for prey to approach. But what they had really done was send out an invitation to the most dangerous predators the galaxy had ever known. And in three days those predators would arrive with a force that would shock every civilized being in the known universe. The countdown had begun, and none of them realized it yet. Three days passed quietly on trade station X-7. The rescue ships had reached the coordinates and found nothing. No distress vessel, no debris, no signs of any emergency at all. They had sent confused reports back to the station, asking for confirmation of the signal source Seth had checked in double-checked her equipment. The signal had definitely come from those coordinates, but now there was only empty space. It was as if the mysterious commander-chant and her ship had simply vanished. Perhaps they were rescued by their own people,

10:26Krull and suggested when the third search team reported finding nothing. Or maybe their ship was destroyed completely, leaving no trace. Was not satisfied with these explanations, but there was nothing more they could do. The rescue ships were returning to their normal duties, and life on the station was getting back to normal. She had almost convinced herself that the whole thing had been some kind of strange accident when the alarm started. Screaming, the first warning came from the long-range sensors. Something big was approaching the station moving faster than any known civilian vessel. Then more contacts appeared on the screens. Then more. Within minutes, the sensor displays were filled with red warning symbols. What is happening? Sethur asked her crystal-body vibrating with fear. Krull and was staring at the main display screen, his engine faced showing an expression she had never seen before. Ships, he said quietly, many ships. More than I have ever seen in one place, the station's artificial intelligence began speaking in its calm electronic voice. Warning, large fleet approaching. Number of vessels.

11:26237. Classification. Unknown. Intent. Unknown. All personnel prepare for possible evacuation. 237 ships. Sethur could barely understand such a number. The largest fleet she had ever heard of belonged to the Galactic Defense. Force and it only had 50 vessels. Even the great trading convoys that carried goods between star systems rarely numbered more than 20 ships. Could it be a celebration? She asked hopefully. Perhaps some species is having a festival and we did not receive the announcement. Krull and shook his head slowly. Look at the formation, young one. They are not flying like traders or celebrants. They are flying like dot dot dot, like what? Like warriors. The first ships began dropping out of hyperspace just outside the station's defensive perimeter. Sethur gasp when she saw them on the visual displays. These were not the elegant, peaceful vessels she was used to seeing. These ships look like they had been built for only one purpose, war. The vessels were huge, much larger than any civilian ship.

12:29Their hulls were dark and angular. Covered with armor plating that made them look like floating fortresses. Strange projections stuck out from the sides, and that were realized with growing horror that these were weapons. Lots of weapons, more ships appeared. Each one is frightening as the last. There were sleek vessels that looked fast and deadly. Massive blocky ships that seemed designed to carry troops, and enormous carriers that were so big they blocked out the stars behind them. By the ancient lights, krill unwispered. What kind of beings build ships like these? The alien vessels arranged themselves in perfect geometric patterns around the station. It was clear that whoever was commanding this fleet knew exactly what they were doing. This was not a random gathering of ships. This was a military operation planned and executed with frightening precision. Administrative Velter, a nervous creature who looked like a cross between a bird and a flower came rushing into the communication center. His colorful feathers were standing up in old directions, a sure sign of extreme stress. What is the situation? He demanded in his high squeaky voice. The entire station is in panic.

13:29My people are asking if we should evacuate. Krill and gesture to the display screens. We are surrounded administrator. 237. Warships of unknown origin have taken position around the station. They have not responded to any of our communications attempts. Velter stared at the screens in disbelief. Warships. But who would bring warships here? This is a peaceful trading. Station, we have no military value. We have no strategic importance. I believe Krill and said slowly that this may be connected to the distress signal we received three days ago. Sather felt a crystal heart grow cold. You think these are the humans? It seems likely. The timing is too convenient to be. Coincidence felt as feathers fluff out even more. But the signal was a call for help. Why would beings asking for a rescue arrive with a battle fleet? Telloretic here from 2311 Racing. Game night's fun until someone spends five minutes lining up one shot. Chalk, breathe, reach-shock, still aiming.

14:29While they figure it out, I fire up Chamba Casino. I can spin anywhere, anytime, and there's always a new social casino game every week. Spins happen way faster than that shot. Play now at chambacasino.com. Let's Chamba. Sponsored by Chamba Casino. No purchase necessary. VGW Group Voidware prohibited by law. 21 plus terms and conditions apply. Before anyone could answer, the communication systems came alive. A new signal was coming through much stronger and clearer than the original distress call. The voice that emerged from the speakers was deep in male, with the same strange accent the commander-chon had used. Attention, unknown station. This is Admiral Marcus Watt of the Third Human Defense Fleet. You will immediately join smith wall. Information regarding the capture and current location of Commander Sarah Chon and the crew of the U.S. Defines. You have ten minutes to comply. The three aliens stared at each other in shock. There was no request in that voice, no politeness, no diplomatic cursesy. It was a demand back by the threat of overwhelming force. Capture Veltasqueaked. We never captured anyone.

15:31We were trying to help. Krallon was already moving toward the communication console. I must try to explain the misunderstanding. Perhaps we can resolve this peacefully. He opened a channel to the human fleet. Greetings, Admiral Webb. This is Ambassador Krallon of the Pacifist Coalition. Speaking for trade station X-7, I believe there has been a center standing. We have not captured your commander-chon. Three days ago, we received what we believed to be a distress signal from her vessel. We sent rescue ships to the coordinates provided, but found no one there. There was a long pause before the admiral was bonded. When he did, his voice was even colder than before. You intercepted a classified military transmission and then dispatched vessels to investigate. You will explain how you obtain access to restricted human communications and what you have done with our people. Seth refelt confusion mixing. With her fear, classified military transmission. But she was asking for help. Krallon held up one of his ancient hands for silence and spoke into the communicator again. Admiral, I assure you that we meant no harm.

16:32The signal was received. Unopened frequencies. Your commander-chon clearly stated that she was requesting assistance for many friendly vessels in range. We responded according to Galactic Law, which requires all civilized beings to provide aid to those in distress. Another pause, this one. Lomba. When Admiral Webb spoke again, there was something different in his voice. Still dangerous, but now also puzzled. Commander-chon requested assistance on open frequencies. That is not possible. The defiance is on a classified deep space. Reconnaissance mission. All communications are encrypted and sent on secure channels only. Nevertheless, Krallon replied carefully, that is what occurred. Perhaps there was some kind of technical malfunction with your communication equipment. Through the visual displays, they could see activity in the human ships. Smaller vessels were moving between the larger ones, and the weapon systems were still trained on the station. Whatever the Admiral was thinking, he was not lowering his guard. He claimed to be peaceful. Admiral Webb said finally. But he knew the name and location of one of our ships on the secret mission.

17:35Either you have infiltrated our communications, or you have captured our people and forced them to give you information. Neither possibility suggests friendly intentions. Velta was fluttering around the communication center like a trapped butterfly. This is terrible, he kept saying. They think we are spies or criminals. What if they attack? We have no defences. The station shields are designed to stop space debris, not military weapons. Sephora was studying the human ships and the display screens, trying to understand what kind of beings would build such fears and vessels. The ships looked like they had been designed by creatures who expected to fight constantly. Every line, every angle seen focused on destruction and survival, and there were so many of them. Even now, more ships were arriving, dropping out of hyperspace in groups of 10 or 20. The fleet was growing larger by the minute. How many beings would it take to cruise ships like these? She wondered aloud. Crelan glanced at the displays. If their ships follow standard galactic designs, each of the larger vessels might carry several thousand individuals. The smaller ones perhaps a few hundred each.

18:35The implications hit them all at once. They were looking at a fleet that could contain hundreds of thousands of warriors. All of them apparently ready to fight to rescue one ship and its crew. What? Kind of species mobilizes such a force for a single vessel. Felt or whispered. One that values loyalty above all else, Crelan answered. But one that considers any threat to their people to be a threat to their entire civilization. The communication channel crackle to life again. This time, Admiral Webb's voice carried a new note of authority. Station Nexus 7, you will prepare to receive the boarding party. We are sending a diplomatic team to inspect your facilities and interview personnel. Any attempt to resist or evacuate will be considered a hostile act. Fulta made a sound like a broken wind chime. Boarding party. They want to board the station, but we have civilians here. Families children from dozens of different species. How many are coming? Crelan asked into the communicator. 50. Personnel, including Marines for security. 50 armed warriors boarding a peaceful trading station.

19:37Sifre tried to imagine what these humans must look like. Given the size and aggressive design of their shits, they were probably large and dangerous. The fault of 50 human soldiers walking through the station's corridors filled her with terror. We will comply, Crelan said, because there was really no choice. But please understand that this is a civilian facility. Many of our residents have never seen military personnel before, we ask that your people conduct themselves with appropriate restrained Admiral Webb's response was immediate and shot my Marines or discipline professionals in Bastard, they will conduct themselves according to military regulations and the laws of war. As long as your people cooperate fully, no one will be harmed. The laws of war. The phrase sent chills through every being in the communication center. These humans spoke of wars if it were a normal part of existence, something they were so familiar with that they had written detailed laws about it. As they watched the displays, the smaller ship detached itself from the human fleet and began moving toward the station. It was sleek and fast, clearly designed for rapid deployment of troops. The boarding party was on its way. What have we done?

20:38Seth throw whispered. We followed the law, Crelan replied firmly. We tried to help someone. In distress. If that was wrong, then the fault lies not with us, but with the universe that punishes kindness. But even as he spoke, all three of them knew that something fundamental had changed. The peaceful galaxy they knew was about to meet beings who came from the different kind of world entirely and none of them were prepared for what that encanto would reveal. The human boarding craft looked like a predator as it approached the station. It was black and silver with no decorations or peaceful symbols. Just smooth, deadly lines that spoke of speed and violence. Watching it grow larger on the screens. Seth felt like a small creature seeing a hawk diving dam from the sky. Their requesting ducking permission, she reported her crystal voice shaking slightly. Run it, Crelan said, and send word to all station residents. Tell them to remain calm and stay in their quarters unless they have essential duties. We do not want any panic. But panic was already spreading through the station like wildfire. Word of the human fleet had reached every level, every district.

21:39Alien families were gathering their children and hiding in their homes. Shop owners were closing their businesses. The normally busy corridors were becoming empty as everyone tried. To stay out of sight, Volter was pacing back and forth his colorful feathers trembling. What if they decide we are enemies? What if they think the entire station is some kind of trap? We have no weapons, no defenses. If they choose to attack, they will not attack. Crelan said, though he did not sound completely certain. They are here for information about their missing ship. Once we can convince them that we tried to help, they will leave peacefully. The boarding craft docked for the heavy thud that shook the entire section of the station. Through the security cameras, they could see the airlock opening. What emerged from the human ship made every alien watching gasp and fear the humans were. An ormus. Each one stood at least two heads taller than the largest species in the station. They wore dark armor that made them look even bigger and more frightening. Their movements were smooth and controlled like predators stalking through. Tall grass. By the eternal stars Volter whispered, they are giants.

22:42The lead human who moved his helmet revealing a face that belonged in alien nightmares. His skin was pale and marked with scars. His eyes were small and sharp like a hunting bird. When he spoke to his companions, his voice was deep and rough. I am Captain James Moore. Tyler Reddick here from 2311 Racing. Victory Lane? Yeah, it's even better with Chamba by my side. Race to chambacacino.com. Let's Chamba. No purchase necessary. VTW Group. Voidware prohibited by law. CTNCs. 21 Plus. Sponsored by Chamba Cacino. Pson, he said to the station's greeting party. I speak for Admiral Webb. We are here to investigate the disappearance of Commander Chan and her crew. The greeting party consisted of three station officials. All of them trying very hard not to show their fear. The lead official, a gentle, being called Soft Singer, step forward. His species was known for their beautiful voices and peaceful nature. She barely came up to the human's chest. Welcome to Trey's station next to 7 Captain Morrison. I'm Soft Singer, Deputy Administrator for Civilian Affairs. We are honored by your visit and eager to help resolve this misunderstanding.

23:44Captain Morrison looked down at her with her sharp eyes. There is no misunderstanding. One of our ships is missing and you people with the last to have contact with it. We want Tanzos. Of course, Soft Singer said quickly. Please allow us to escort you to our communication center. Ambassador Creelin can explain everything that happened. As the group moved through the station's corridors, more humans followed behind them. Set the count to 12 of them, all wearing the same dark armor and carrying weapons that look far too large for any civilized being to handle. The heavy boots made a foreshake with each step. The stations residents who saw them could. Not help but stare. Children peaked out from behind their parents pointing at the strange tall creatures. Some of the more delicate species actually fainted when the humans walked past. The smell of fear filled the air. One small child, a fluffy creature with six legs and large innocent eyes, broke away from his parent and ran up to one of the human marines. The marines stopped and looked down at the child who was staring up at him in wonder. You are very big, the child said in its sweet piping voice.

24:46Are you a giant from the old stories? The marines face often slightly. He knelt down to bring. Himself closer to the child's level, though even kneeling he was still much larger. No, little one he said in a gentler voice than anyone expected. I am just a person like you. My name is Sergeant Rodriguez. Rodriguez, the child repeated, having trouble with the strange human sounds. Are you here to hurt anyone? The sergeant shook his head. Not if I can help it. We were just looking for our friends who got lost. Before anyone could say more, the child's parent rushed over and scooped up their offspring, apologizing repeatedly. To the human. Sergeant Rodriguez stood up slowly and said after notice that he looked almost sad as the family hurried away. When they reached the communication center, Captain Morrison and four of his marines ended. The rest stayed outside to guard the corridors. The small room suddenly felt very crowded with the large humans inside. Crelan stood to greet them, his ancient dignity intact despite the circumstances. Captain Morrison, I am Ambassador Crelan.

25:47I've been hoping to speak with you people and resolve the situation. The human captain studied the old alien. Carefully. You are the one who spoke with Admiral Webb. I am pleased. Let me explain what truly happened. Crelan gestured to the communication equipment. Three days ago, we received a signal from your commander-chun. She said she was stranded and requesting assistance. We sent rescue ships to help her, but they found nothing at the coordinates she provided. Show me the signal, Captain Morrison. Demandered, Sethra played back the original transmission. Commander-chun's voice filled the room. Calm and clear as she asked for help. The humans listened carefully and she could see surprise on their faces. That is definitely Commander-chun, one of the marines said quietly. Captain Morrison frowned. But the defiance is not in distress. She is on a routine serve emission in the outer ring. All her reports have been normal. Perhaps there was some kind of tactical problem, Crelan suggested. Your communication equipment might have malfunctioned and sent the run-out equipment does not malfunction, the captain said firmly.

26:48Human technology is built to work perfectly, even in the worst conditions, Sethra found courage to speak up. Captain Morrison, may I ask a question? The human turned though shop. Eyes toward her and she felt like he was looking directly into a crystal soul. What? The voice in the John's mission, Commander-chun, she sounded very calm for someone who was supposed to be in trouble. Is that normal for your people? Captain Morrison's expression changed slightly. Commander-chun is a veteran officer. She has been in combat many times. She would remain calm even in the worst emergency he paused thinking. But you are right. If she was really stranded in hostile space, there should have been more urgency in her voice. Combat. Delta squeaked from the corner where he had been trying to hide. He were people fight wars. The question seemed to surprise the humans. Captain Morrison looked around the room at the assembled aliens and something in his expression. Suggested, he was seeing them differently now. You do not have wars. He asked. We have not had a major conflict in over 3,000 years Cruele and replied.

27:50The galactic piece of cords ended all a warfare between civilized species. We settle. Our differences through negotiation and trade. The humans exchanged glances. One of the Marines spoke up. Captain, they do not even have weapons on this station. I check the security scans. The strongest thing they have is construction tools. No weapons. Captain Morrison asked as if the concept was impossible to understand. How do you defend your selves? From what? Soft singer asked innocently. From attack. From pirates. From hostile species that want to take what you have. The aliens looked at each other in confusion. There are no pirates in civilized space Cruele and explained. And there are no hostile species. All beings who travel between the stars have agreed to live in peace. Captain Morrison stared at them for a long moment. All beings. Every species in the galaxy, every species we have encountered, Cruele and confirmed. Over 400 different civilizations all living together in harmony that is impossible. One of the Marines muttered.

28:51There is always someone who wants to fight. Always someone who thinks they can take what others have built. Sefer felt that she'll run through her crystal body. Captain Morrison, where do your people come from? What kind of world teaches its children about war and weapons? The human captain was quiet for a moment, stood in peaceful aliens around. Him, when he spoke, his voice was different. Not threatening anymore, but filled with something that might have been sadness. We come from a world cold earth, he said slowly. And yes, it taught us about war. It taught us that the universe is a dangerous place where only the strong survive, where peace is something you have to fight for and keep fighting for every single day. But surely your world has found peace now. Soft singer asked hopefully. Captain Morrison almost smiled, but it was not a happy expression. Earth has. Peace because we made it peaceful. Because we were strong enough to stop those who would break the peace. But the universe is much larger than one world, and we have learned that there are always new threats waiting in the darkness. He activated a small device on his wrist and spoke into it. Admiral Webb, this is Captain Morrison.

29:54Sir, I think we need to have a much longer conversation with these people. And so dot dot, I do not think there are enemies. Admiral Webb's force crackle through the device. Explain, Captain. Sir, they do not have weapons, any weapons. Their entire civilization appears to be built around the idea that all intelligent. Species are naturally peaceful. They genuinely believe they were helping Commander Chun. There was a long pause before the Admiral responded. That seems unlikely, Captain. Every species develops weapons. It is a natural part of evolution. Not these species, sir. I am looking at beings who have never seen a gun, never fought a war, never had to defend their homes from attack. They do not even understand the concept of military force. Another pause longer this time. Captain Morrison, Admiral Webb said finally, are you telling me that we have just threatened to space station full of pacifists with entire third fleet? Yes, sir, that appears to be exactly what we have done. The silence the followed was broken only by Veltar's nervous humming. The humans and aliens stared at each other across a gap that seemed wider than the space between stars.

30:57Too completely. Different ways of thinking about life and survival, meeting for the first time. Captain, Krillin said quietly, what happens now? Captain Morrison looked around the room again, taking in the frightened but hopeful faces of the station's residents. Now, he said, we try to figure out how to explain to the galaxy that there are beings out here who have never forgotten how to fight. Tyler Reddick here from 2311 Racing. Victory Lane? Yeah, it's even better with Chamba by my side. Race to chambacacino.com. Let's Chamba. No purchase necessary. VTW Group. Void were prohibited by law. CTNCs. 21 Plus. Sponsored by Chamba Cacino. Admiral Marcus Webb had commanded warships for 30 years, but he had never found himself in a situation quite like this one. He stood in a main conference room of trade station X-7 surrounded by the most unusual gathering he had ever seen. The room itself was beautiful in a way that human ship could never be. The walls were made of some kind of living crystal that gave off a soft, warm light. The furniture seemed to grow from the four like strange plants perfectly shaped for the many different types of beings that used them.

31:58Everything was designed for peace and comfort, not for war. Around the large circular table sat representatives from a dozen different alien species. Those Krillin, the ancient tree like being his boat with such quiet wisdom. Valdor, the nervous bird creature who kept fluffing his feathers, whenever a human moved. Soft singer, whose voice really did sound like music when she spoke. And many others, all of them staring at my web with a mixture of fear and curiosity on the human side of the table sat capped in Morrison and five other officers. Even sitting down, they towered over most of the aliens, their dark uniforms, and serious faces made them look like shadows in the bright cheerful room. Let me make sure I understand this correctly. Admiral Webb said, his deep voice filling the room. You are telling me that there has been no war in this galaxy for 3000 years. That is correct, Krillin replied. The last major conflict was the Freedrap War, which ended when all species agreed to share resources and settled disputes during negotiation. And before that, there were several smaller conflicts over the previous millennium. But nothing like the Great Wars of Ancient Times, when entire worlds were destroyed by fighting.

33:00Admiral Webb leaned back in his chair, which creaked under. His weight. On my world, we call 3000 years of peace and possible. So one always wants what someone else has. Someone always thinks they can take it by force. A small, fuzzy creature cold whisper soft spoke up in a voice so quiet everyone had to lean forward to here. But why would anyone want to take by? Force when trading is so much easier. When you trade, both sides get what they need. When you fight, everyone loses something. Because fighting can be quick, a captain Morrison explained, if I want your fruit and you will not trade it to me, I might decide to just take it from you. But then I would not trade with you again, whisper soft said, confused. Neither would anyone else. You would be banned from all trading stations. How would you get the things you need? The humans looked at each other. On earth, being banned from trading was inconvenient. But it was not a death sentence because humans had learned to take what they needed if they could not get it peacefully. Perhaps. Admiral Webb said slowly, you should tell us more about your worlds. What are they like?

34:00Soft singer brightened the question. Oh, my home world is wonderful. The gravity is very light so we can almost fly through the air. The weather is always warm and gentle. Fruit grows everywhere without any work. The water is clean and sweet. There are no dangers animals, no diseases, no natural disasters. It sounds like paradise, one of the human officers said. Most of our worlds are similar, Creole and added. We only colonize planets that are safe and comfortable. There would be no point in living somewhere dangerous when there are so many pleasant worlds available. Admiral Webb felt something cold. Selling in his stomach, how many worlds like this are there? In civilized space, perhaps 10,000 inhabited planets, all of them peaceful and safe. 10,000 paradise worlds, the Admiral repeated quietly. And you have never encountered a world that was. Difficult to live on, the aliens look confused by the question. They'll detilted his colorful head. What do you mean by difficult? Hostile weather, dangerous animals, poisonous air or water. Natural disasters like earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.

35:03Why would anyone try to live on a world like that? Whisper soft-assed. There are so many good worlds available. Captain, Morrison spoke up. What if there were no good worlds available? What if the only choice was to live on a dangerous world or die? That situation has never arisen, Creole and said. Space is fast. There are always more good worlds to find. Admiral Webb stood up and walked to the large window that looked out at the stars. In the distance, he could see his fleet 200 and 37 warships ready for battle, ships built by species that had never known easy choices or safe worlds. Tell me, he said, without turning around. Have any of you ever heard of a world classified as class 12? There were silence behind him. Finally, Creole and spoke. I'm not familiar with the classification system. What does class 12 mean? Admiral Webb turned back to face them. In human science, we rate planets by how dangerous they are to live on. Class 1 is completely safe, like your paradise worlds. Class 12 is the highest rating we have ever given to a planet

36:03that actually supports complex life. And class 12 means, it means a world so hostile that it should not be possible for intelligent life to vault there. A world where everything is trying to kill you every single day, from the moment you are born until the moment you die, the aliens stared at him in horror. Softzing as musical voice was shaking when she spoke. Surely no beings could survive on such a world. One species did, Admiral Webb said quietly. We call ourselves humans, and we call our homeworld earth. The rumor uptid in shock was sprues and gasps. Several of the smaller aliens actually fell off their chairs. Felt to me to sound like a broken flute. You come from a class 12 world? Creole and asked his ancient voice filled with disbelief. Born and raised, Captain Morrison said was something that might have been pried. Earth tried to kill us in every way possible. Ice Age is the froze most of the planet for thousands of years volcanic eruptions that block out the sun asteroid impacts that destroyed most life earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, droughts, plagues, and predators that made hunting us the specialty how did you survive.

37:03Whispersoft asked an amazement. We learned to fight back. Admiral Webb said we learned to hunt the predators that hunted us. We learned to predict a weather and build shelters that could survive the storms. We learned to grow through it even when the ground was frozen or flooded. We learned that the only way to survive was to be tougher, smarter, and more determined than everything that was trying to kill us. One of the aliens, the creature that looked like a living flower, raised a delicate pedal. But surely, once he developed technology, he left the terrible world and found safer places to live. The humans exchanged glances. Captain Morrison answered. We did spread to the worlds, but we never forgot the lessons Earth taught us. And we discovered that the universe outside Earth was not much safer. What do you mean? Creole and asked. We found worlds where the radiation would cocoon minutes. Worlds were the gravity with crusher bones. Worlds where the atmosphere was pure poison. Worlds where the temperature would freeze you solid or burn you tash. We found space itself trying to kill us with cosmic rays, solar flares, and asteroid storms. Admiral Webb sat back down, his chair creaking again.

38:05But the worst thing we found was not dangerous worlds or hostile space. The worst thing we found was other species that had learned the same lessons we had. Species that saw resources and decided to take them by force. Species that looked at peaceful beings and saw easy prey. The aliens were staring at him with expressions of pure terror. The idea that such beings might exist had never occurred. To them, you afford other species felt or whispered. Many times the admiral confirmed some wanted our worlds. Some wanted our technology. Some just wanted to prove they were stronger than us. All of them learned the humans do not give up easily. Did you? Did you win these fights? Soft singer asked that she looked like she did not want to hear the answer. We are still here, Captain Morrison said simply. They are not. The room fell silent except for the soft humming of the station's life support systems. The aliens. We're trying to process the idea that the galaxy contained beings capable of wiping out entire species in warfare. Finally, whisper soft us the question they were all thinking.

39:05If you were so dangerous, why have you not conquered our worlds? Why have you not taken our resources by force? Admiral Webb considered the question carefully. Because conquest is not our goal, survival is our goal. We fight when we have to, not because we want to. Your species pose no threat to us, so we have no reason to fight you. But your fleet, Creoleon said, 237 warships that is enough to conquer this entire sector of space. That fleet, Admiral Webb said, came here because we thought one of our people was in danger. We thought you had captured or harmed Commander Chun when we believed our own with threatened. We responded with everything we had. The aliens looked at each other in amazement. These humans had mobilized a massive war fleet to rescue a single ship in its crew. The level of loyalty and determination that represented was beyond their understanding. What happens now? Creoleon asked. Now that you know we are not your enemies, Admiral Webb stood up again and looked out at his fleet. Now we try to figure out how two completely different ways of life can exist in the same galaxy. You have built a civilization based on peace and cooperation.

40:08We have built a civilization based on strength and survival. Somehow, we need to find a way to co-exist. Is that possible? Soft-singer asked hopefully. The Admiral turned back to them and for the first time since boarding the station, he almost smiled. Three days ago, I would have said no. Peaceful. Species and warrior species cannot share the same space. One always destroys the other. And now? Now I have met beings who responded to a distress call from complete strangers by sending rescue ships into dangerous space. Beings who have never even considered using violence to solve their problems. Beings who built a paradise among the stars and invited everyone to share it. He paused, looking around the room at the assembled aliens. Perhaps there is something. Humans can learn from that kind of thinking. And perhaps there is something you can learn from us about surviving in a universe that is not always as peaceful as your corner of it. Captain Morrison spoke up. Admiral, what about Commander Chun? We still do not know why her ship sent that transmission. Admiral would nodded.

41:08We will find out when she arrives. I sent word for the defiance to rendezvous with us here. She showed. Be arriving within the air. The aliens looked at each other nervously. Soon they would meet the human who had started this entire crisis. The woman who simple transmission had brought a war fleet down upon their peaceful station. None of them could imagine what would happen when she learned what her requests for help had caused. The used defiance dropped out of hyperspace with a grace of a hunting shark. Unlike the massive warships of Admiral Webb's fleet, Commander Chun's vessel was built for speed and stealth. It was sleek and dark, designed to slip through space. And seen in a herd, on trade station Nexus 7, every being with access to a viewing screen watched as the ship approached. The aliens had spent the last hour learning about human civilization and each new piece of information had been more frightening than the last. Now there were about to meet the woman who had accidentally started this entire crisis. There she is, Admiral Webb said, watching the defiance maneuver toward the station. Commander Chun, one of our best deep space reconnaissance officers.

42:0920 years of service, veteran of four major conflicts, and probably very confused about why half the third fleet is waiting for her. Seth oppressed herself against the observation window, her crystal body reflecting the light from the approaching. Ship, she has been alone out there in the dangerous parts of space. Not alone, the captain Morrison corrected. She has a crew of 40 specialists. But yes, they have been exploring systems that must beings would consider too dangerous to enter. 4. How long? This mission? 6 months. How long is mission was almost to you as in completely unexplored space? The aliens stared at him in amazement. The idea of spending two years in unknown, hostile space was beyond the comprehension. On their worlds. Even a day away from civilization, station was considered an adventure that defiance stopped smoothly with the station. Through the security cameras they watched as the air looked cycled open. Commander Sarah Chun stepped through and immediately the difference between her and the heavily armed Marines became apparent. She was smaller than the other humans, though still tall by alien standards.

43:12Her uniform was clean and simple, without the armor and weapons that made the fleet Marines look so intimidating. Her face was calm and intelligent, with the kind of quite confidence that came from years of making difficult decisions in dangerous places. Behind her came six members of her crew, all of them looking around the station with curiosity, rather. Then suspicion? This seemed genuinely interested in the alien architecture and the peaceful atmosphere. Tyler Reddick here from 2311 Racing. The rush of racing? Nothing beats it. But Chumba Casino comes close. Chumba's got fast spins, fun games, daily bonuses and all the action you can handle. Now that's a ride. Ready to hit the throttle? Get in the driver's seat and head to chumbacasino.com. Let's chumba. Sponsored by Chumba Casino. No purchase necessary. VGW Group Void were prohibited by law. 21 plus turns and conditions apply. Admiral Webb, Commander Chun said as she entered the conference room. I received your message, but I have to admit I am confused.

44:12My mission. Report shows everything proceeding normally. Why has the entire third fleet been mobilized? Admiral Webb gestured to disembled aliens. Commander meet the beings who intercepted your distress call three days ago. Commander Chun looked around the room as a prize. My what? Admiral, I have not said any distress calls. The defiance is operating perfectly and we are ahead of schedule on our survey mission. Sethra activated the communication system and played back the transmission that had started everything. Commander Sheen's own voice filled the room asking for assistance from any friendly vessels in range. The human commander listened with growing confusion. When the playback finished, she shook her head. That is definitely my voice, but I never sent that message. We were conducting a routine survey of the Kepler-minus-442 system three days ago. All our communications were on secure frequencies to fleet command. One of our crew members, a young man with a kind of technical knowledge written all over his face step forward. Commander, if I may, I think I know what happened. Go ahead Lieutenant Park.

45:13Three days ago, we had a minor malfunction in the communication array. Remember, I was running diagnostics and had to switch to backup systems for about an iron. Commander Chun nodded. I remember. You said it was nothing serious. It was not. Serious, but it was unusual. The primary transmitter started broadcasting Han civilian frequencies instead of military ones. I think what happened is that your routine position report got sent out on an open channel instead of our encrypted linked fleet command. The room fell silent as everyone processed this information. Admiral Webb was the first to speak. So there was no distress call, no capture, no threat to our people. Just a technical malfunction that broadcasted routine message to the ROM receivers. That appears to be correct, sir. Lieutenant Park said, looking embarrassed. The message these. Theings received was Commander Chun's standard check-in report. When she said requesting assistance, she was asking fleet command for updated navigation data, not requesting rescue. Felt to made a sound like a deflating balloon. All of this happened because of broken communication equipment.

46:16Apparently. Commander Chun said, looking around at the massive fleet visible through the windows. Admiral exactly how many ships did you bring? 137 combat vessels, 16,000 Marines, and enough firepower to level a small planet, Admiral Webb replied Riley. Commander Chun stared at him. To rescue one's service ship. To rescue Commander. When we thought someone had captured or threatened one of our people, we responded with everything available. The aliens watched this exchange with fascination. The human military command had deployed a massive war fleet to save a single ship and its crew forwarding. The level of loyalty and mutual protection this represented was only like anything they had ever seen. Sof Sir spoke up in her musical force. Commander Chun, may I ask about your mission? You have been alone in unexplored space for six months. Not alone, Commander Chun reply. I have my crew and we stay in regular contact with fleet command. But yes, we have been mapping systems in the outer room that no one has ever visited before. Is it not frightening? Whisper Soft asked.

47:16To go to places where no one has ever. In? Where you do not know what dangers might be waiting. Commander Chun considered the question seriously. Sometimes yes. We have encountered radiation storms, gravitational anomalies, and still a phenomena that could destroy our ship if we make a mistake. But that is why we train so hard and why our ships are built so well. Someone has to explore what it is known are we would never learn anything new. Cree long lean forward with interest. What drives humans to seek out danger? Your species could live safely on the worlds you have already found. Why risk your lives exploring places that might kill you? Because Commander Chun said simply that is what humans do. We explore, we learn. We push boundaries. I've taught us that survival means always moving forward, always adapting, always going stronger. If we stop exploring, we stop growing. And if we stop growing, eventually something will come along that is stronger than us. But surely now that you have found so many safe worlds, you can rest. Veltus suggested hopefully. I'm Erouad Chuk.

48:16His head. Commander Kain's mission is one of Hunters currently active. We have service ships map in new systems, research vessels studying alien phenomena, and colony ships carrying families to new worlds. All of them pushing further into the unknown. How far do you plan to go? Cree all unasked. As far as we can. Commander Chun replied, Until we have seen every star, mapped every world, and understand every mystery the universe has to offer. The aliens looked at each other in amazement. This human-dropped constantly exploring expand was completely foreign to the way of thinking. They were content with their 10,000 paradise worlds. The idea of always pushing further, always seeking new challenges, was both inspiring and terrifying. What happens now? Soft singer asked. Now that we understand what really happened. Admiral. Webs stood up and walked to the window again. His massive fleet floated in perfect formation, a display of power that could conquer half the galaxy. But now that same power seemed less threatening and more protective. Now we go home, he said. My fleet returns to its patrol duties.

49:18Commander Chun continues her mission. And the galaxy learns that humans are here. We tell others about. Yuvis. Zeth are asked. Yes, the Admiral replied. Our government will want to know about your peaceful civilization. This is the largest collection of intelligent species we have ever encountered. And the first time we have found beings who have solved the problem of war. We try to conquer us. Velta asked. Still nervous despite everything he had learned. Admiral Webb turned back to face them. And his expression was serious, but not unkind. No humans do not conquer peaceful beings. We fight when we have to, but we do not start wars. With people who mean us no harm. But what if some of your people disagree? Was per soft asked. What if some humans think our worlds would be easy to take? The admirals face hardened. Then they would have to deal with the rest of us. Humans protect those who cannot protect themselves. It is one of our oldest laws. Commander Chun stepped forward. If I may suggest something, Admiral,

50:18perhaps we could establish a formal contact protocol. Our government and their governments could exchange ambassadors. We could learn from each other. What would humans want to learn from us? Krellon asked curiously. How to build a lasting peace Admiral Webb said without hesitation. You had accomplished something that we thought was impossible. 400 species, 10,000 worlds, 3,000 years without war. We could use teachers like that, and what could you teach us? Soft singer asked. How to survive when peace fails. The Admiral replied. Because eventually somewhere in this fast galaxy, you will encounter beings who do not share your peaceful. Nature. When that day comes, you will need to know how to defend what you have built. The room fell quite as everyone considered the implications. The peaceful galaxy was about to change forever. The arrival of humanity would bring new possibilities and new challenges. Lieutenant Parks spoke up again. I'm a Royal Commander, if I may. I think there is something beautiful about this whole situation. How so, Lieutenant? This all started because of a mistake.

51:19A technical malfunction sent the wrong message to the wrong people. But instead of ignoring it, these beings immediately tried to help. They sent rescue ships into dangerous space to save people they had never met. He looked around. The room at the assembled aliens. And when we thought our people were in danger, we came with everything we had to bring them home safely. Both of our civilizations, despite being completely different, acted with honor and loyalty and care for others. Admiral Wedge nod is lowly. The lieutenant has a point. Perhaps humans and the peaceful races have more in common than we thought. Commander Chunsmile, the first time any of the aliens had seen a human show genuine happiness. We both believe in protecting those who need protection. We both believe in helping those in distress. We just have different ways of doing it. Then perhaps, Krillin said in his ancient voice, this accidental meeting was not such an accident. After all, perhaps the universe wanted us to find each other. Two hours later, a human fleet began its departure. Ship after ship activated the hyperdrive systems and vanished into the void.

52:19The aliens of Trade Station X-7 watched them go through a mixture of relief and sadness. Admiral Wedge's flagship was the last to leave. Before it departed, he sent one final message to the station. His voice echoed through every corridor and every room to the beings of Trade Station X-7 and all the peaceful wells beyond. You have shown us that the galaxy is larger and more wonderful than we ever imagined. You have taught us that there are still places where kindness exists without the need for strength to protect it. We will remember this lesson and we will share it with our people. And if the day ever comes when your peace is threatened, remember that you have friends among the stars who have not forgotten how to fight. The message ended and the admiral ship vanished into hyperspace. Sifre stood at the observation window, watching the empty space where the massive fleet had been. Do you think we will see them again? She asked. Kerala placed one of his. Ancient hands on her crystal shoulder. I think he am one that this is only the beginning. The galaxy has just become a much larger and more interesting place. In the distant star sparkle like diamonds against the black of space and somewhere among those stars,

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