| Beyond the Wall of Hope - Rescue mission: Launch! |
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Rescue mission: Launch! (15/06/03 )
“All systems check out, reactor levels are nominal.” Ensign Sunclaw reported as his hands danced over the controls at the main pilot’s station. “We are ready to disconnect from the station by your order sir.”
Admiral Torvaine nodded his approval, the ship was finally staffed to full operating levels with the personnel Commander Lalita had brought with her on the dropship and everyone understood the mission that would be undertaken.
Acknowledging the Admiral’s approval with nod, as well, Brightwing disengaged the station interlocks.
“Vendorian defense station one, this is the Star Phoenix. We are clear of the station and proceeding on mission. Admiral Ko’dayn sends his regards to Captain Orion.” The communications officer spoke in very officious tones. “VDS-1 acknowledges and wishes us luck sir.”
“They are really nice and positive for an embattled people who have lost their home world.” Lalita remarked.
Torvaine nodded, “agreed, I hope to be able to get Ty and his pack back to them so he can help out... but we need to rescue Ryana.”
The ship slowly pulled away from the station and burned for the rendezvous point with the dropship. As it closed, Brightwing began to match the dropship’s speed and angle of rotation. By the time the Star Phoenix pulled up along side the dropship, their movement matched perfectly.
A docking tube snaked out between both ships and joined. The tube pressurized and was ready to transport personnel between the two ships for the rescue mission.
On the bridge, Brightwing and Torvaine readied themselves to transfer to the dropship. Torvaine paused before the door and turned towards Lalita. “I’m counting on you Lalita, I know you are not a line officer. Petty Officer Brooks is an excellent weapons officer, but your judgment will guide his hand. We all believe in you Lita, I know I’ve never said this, but welcome to the team. You haven’t missed much in the past, but this mission is different. I’m truly happy to have you as part of it.”
Commander Lalita blushed a little, “Thank you sir, I won’t let you or Ryana down. Good luck sir and bring them back.”
All the personnel were transferred between the ships, including the sleeping Aurora. Both ships separated and burned for Vendorian orbit. Assuming a high orbit, the Star Phoenix readied its main cannon for full charge.
“Cruise missiles ready for launch?” Commander Lalita inquired.
Petty Officer Brooks nodded, “Aye, ma’am. Ready to go on your command. EM boosters active and transmitting on maximum.”
Lalita smiled, “right. On my mark fire one, then two.” She paused for a brief moment, studying her wrist chronometer. “Mark!”
The first Cruise Missile sailed off at full speed towards the planet.
“Fire two!” the commander ordered. The second missile followed the first. “Tracking sensors to maximum, set for energy air bursts and track back towards the source.”
Aboard the dropship Brightwing acknowledged the launch of the missiles. “Right on schedule sir!”
Torvaine grinned, “Alright, ready people! Mr. Sunclaw, take us in at full.”
Karen tapped the Admiral on the shoulder, “Aurora is secured in a seat. She is still sleeping.”
The fox nodded and braced for high-speed atmosphere entry.
| Rescue mission: Launch! (Foxmage) - 15/06/03 |
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