As the adrenaline of the recent skirmish began to ebb away, Celine turned to Spacedawg with a mixture of curiosity and relief etched on her features. “Spacedawg,” she began, her voice tinged with curiosity, “how did you know to come when you did?”
Spacedawg flashed a grin, his canine features splitting into a wolfish smile. “It wasn’t just luck, Celine,” he replied, his tone laced with a hint of pride. “We were chasing a lead, and the Order 93 ships needed a maiden voyage. Turns out, raiding pirate strongholds in the Ontario and Quebec Sectors was just the beginning. We’ve had our fair share of altercations with the Ramhar Remnant and the Cult of Roch along the way.”
Celine nodded thoughtfully, mulling over the information. “During my mission, all roads seemed to lead to John Aikin
Early Life and Background Born in Washington D.C., John Aikin Sr. was raised amidst a complex and secretive family history. His father, Johanus Haakon, originally from Norway, changed their family name to Aikin. Johanus Haakon, a physician with dubious ethics, collaborated with the Nazis during World War II, conducting unethical experiments on prisoners of war. Rise to Power John Aikin...,” she confessed, her brow furrowing with frustration. “But every lead turned up empty. I was beginning to doubt if this mysterious artifact even exists.”
Spacedawg placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, his gaze steady and unwavering. “What’s our next move, Celine?” he asked, his voice filled with determination.
Celine sighed, a faint smile playing at the corners of her lips. “First, I need to check in with HQ,” she replied, her tone tinged with gratitude. “And then, if it’s alright with you, I’d like to hitch a ride on the Mandoleer’s Folly.”
Spacedawg’s grin widened, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “You’ve always been family, Celine,” he declared, his voice tinged with warmth. “You’re welcome aboard anytime.”
As the Mandoleer’s Folly set course for the Regina System, Celine couldn’t help but notice Henry’s presence among the crew. “Henry, what brings you here?” she asked, her curiosity piqued.
Henry chuckled, his expression jovial. “Just taking a little vacation from my usual role as CEO,” he replied, his tone light and breezy. “Besides, someone needs to keep the seat warm until you return.”
Midway to the Saskatchewan Sector
Overview A Sector, commonly referred to as a Provincial Sector, is a designated area of space within the broader and diverse cosmic region known as the Canadian Expanse. These Sectors function similarly to provinces, contributing to the organization and governance of this vast territory. Structure and Division The Canadian Expanse is divided into thirteen Provincial Sectors, each with its own..., the tranquility of space was shattered by the sudden emergence of a squadron of RCSC capital ships from the Fold. Among them, Celine recognized the familiar forms of the RCSC Montgomery, the RCSC Doohan, and the RCSC Scotty, along with two other vessels whose design eluded her.
The RCSC Archer hailed the Mandoleer’s Folly, and Celine’s surprise deepened as a familiar face appeared on the viewscreen. “Ulrich Knudsen,” she breathed, her voice barely above a whisper.
The chapter ended with Ulrich extending an invitation for the crew to join him for a dinner meeting aboard the RCSC Montgomery, setting the stage for a reunion that would shape the course of their journey.
—
As the crew of the Mandoleer’s Folly exchanged greetings with the officers of the RCSC Montgomery, Spacedawg found himself in an unexpected conversation with Captain Holm and Captain Knudsen. Captain Holm’s keen interest in Spacedawg’s Danish heritage led to a brief exchange in their native language, much to the amusement of the captains.
“Taler du Dansk?” Captain Holm inquired, his voice carrying the familiar cadence of their shared tongue.
Spacedawg chuckled, replying, “mit dansk er virkelig dårligt,” acknowledging his rusty language skills.
Captain Holm commended him on his accent, admiring the authenticity despite Spacedawg’s admitted linguistic shortcomings. “Your Danish may not be fluent, but your accent is impeccable,” he remarked with a grin.
Meanwhile, amidst the bustling flight deck, Maelstrom
Origin and Early Life Maelstrom, a Gichi-manidoo from the Rogue Moon of Giizis Babaa-ayaa in the Ontario Sector, is distinguished by her blue-furred, wild cat-like features. A member of the humanoid species with a deep connection to nature, she embodies the physical and spiritual traits of her heritage. Maelstrom’s life took a significant turn when she relocated to the bustling... found herself engaged in conversation with Bodil, a Canis female whose presence sparked curiosity among the crew. MaelstromOrigin and Early Life Maelstrom, a Gichi-manidoo from the Rogue Moon of Giizis Babaa-ayaa in the Ontario Sector, is distinguished by her blue-furred, wild cat-like features. A member of the humanoid species with a deep connection to nature, she embodies the physical and spiritual traits of her heritage. Maelstrom’s life took a significant turn when she relocated to the bustling... had hinted at encounters with others of Spacedawg’s species in the past, but Bodil’s appearance was a rare occurrence indeed.
Bodil’s gaze kept drifting toward Spacedawg, her interest piqued by the legendary figure before her. “Who is that fine-looking officer?” she inquired, her tone tinged with curiosity.
MaelstromOrigin and Early Life Maelstrom, a Gichi-manidoo from the Rogue Moon of Giizis Babaa-ayaa in the Ontario Sector, is distinguished by her blue-furred, wild cat-like features. A member of the humanoid species with a deep connection to nature, she embodies the physical and spiritual traits of her heritage. Maelstrom’s life took a significant turn when she relocated to the bustling... couldn’t help but smile knowingly. “That would be our first officer, Commander Spacedawg PaulyBirth Name: PaulyCurrent Alias: Spacedawg PaulySpecies: Human-Canine HybridDate of Birth: February 22, 1973Place of Birth: Washington, D.C., United States, Earth, Sol SystemOccupations: Former Chef, Brewer, Distiller, Garden Worker, Apprentice Cobbler; Current First Mate on the Mandoleer's Folly, Lieutenant in the Royal Canadian Space Cavalry (RCSC) Overview Spacedawg Pauly is a unique entity whose life story spans both Earth and the...,” she replied, noting the hint of excitement in Bodil’s voice.
Then, as if unable to contain her curiosity, Bodil leaned in closer to MaelstromOrigin and Early Life Maelstrom, a Gichi-manidoo from the Rogue Moon of Giizis Babaa-ayaa in the Ontario Sector, is distinguished by her blue-furred, wild cat-like features. A member of the humanoid species with a deep connection to nature, she embodies the physical and spiritual traits of her heritage. Maelstrom’s life took a significant turn when she relocated to the bustling... and whispered, “Is the Commander single?”
MaelstromOrigin and Early Life Maelstrom, a Gichi-manidoo from the Rogue Moon of Giizis Babaa-ayaa in the Ontario Sector, is distinguished by her blue-furred, wild cat-like features. A member of the humanoid species with a deep connection to nature, she embodies the physical and spiritual traits of her heritage. Maelstrom’s life took a significant turn when she relocated to the bustling... chuckled softly, amused by Bodil’s sudden interest. “Why don’t you ask him yourself?” she suggested, enjoying the playful exchange.
Bodil’s eyes widened with excitement at the prospect of meeting both Spacedawg PaulyBirth Name: PaulyCurrent Alias: Spacedawg PaulySpecies: Human-Canine HybridDate of Birth: February 22, 1973Place of Birth: Washington, D.C., United States, Earth, Sol SystemOccupations: Former Chef, Brewer, Distiller, Garden Worker, Apprentice Cobbler; Current First Mate on the Mandoleer's Folly, Lieutenant in the Royal Canadian Space Cavalry (RCSC) Overview Spacedawg Pauly is a unique entity whose life story spans both Earth and the... and Henry Weedmonger. She eagerly implored MaelstromOrigin and Early Life Maelstrom, a Gichi-manidoo from the Rogue Moon of Giizis Babaa-ayaa in the Ontario Sector, is distinguished by her blue-furred, wild cat-like features. A member of the humanoid species with a deep connection to nature, she embodies the physical and spiritual traits of her heritage. Maelstrom’s life took a significant turn when she relocated to the bustling... to introduce her, her enthusiasm palpable as she awaited the opportunity to meet the legendary figures in person.
As the chapter drew to a close, the air buzzed with anticipation, tinged with the promise of new connections and unexpected encounters aboard the RCSC Montgomery.
—
Celine’s heart raced as she navigated through the throng of officers and dignitaries at the welcome reception. She had expected the usual pleasantries, perhaps a nod of acknowledgment from the higher-ups. What she didn’t expect was Admiral James approaching her with a purposeful stride.
“I’d like a moment of your time,” the Admiral said, his voice cutting through the ambient chatter.
Celine’s eyebrows raised in surprise, but she quickly composed herself. “Of course, Sir,” she replied, her tone respectful yet curious.
The Admiral wasted no time getting to the point. “I read your report on the Aikin incident,” he began, his gaze steady on her. “The surprising alliance, the precision of your team’s execution—it’s commendable.”
Celine couldn’t help but feel a surge of pride at the Admiral’s words. “My team?” she asked, a hint of confusion creeping into her voice.
The Admiral nodded. “The crew of the Mandoleer’s Folly, along with your highly effective Order 93,” he clarified, his expression serious. “And it’s because of that, I’m promoting you to Colonel and entrusting you with command of your new fleet, Order 93.”
Celine’s mind raced, trying to process the magnitude of the Admiral’s announcement. “Sir?” she stammered, struggling to find the right words.
The Admiral continued, unfazed by her surprise. “As a condition of operating in the Canadian Expanse, Order 93 underwent RCSC training,” he explained. “And now, they need a leader like yourself—a hands-on commander.”
Celine felt a mix of emotions swirling within her—pride, uncertainty, and a hint of excitement at the challenge ahead. “I understand, Sir,” she said finally, determination firming her resolve.
But the Admiral wasn’t finished yet. “I’m also assigning the RCSC Archer to your team,” he added, his tone brooking no argument. “And the NKU Margarethe II will join you as part of a joint task force.”
Celine’s mind buzzed with the implications of the Admiral’s directives. The weight of responsibility settled on her shoulders, but she knew she was ready for the challenge.
“And there’s one more thing,” the Admiral said, his voice carrying a note of finality. “We’ll rendezvous at the Order 93 Station to help with the upgrades and deliver two squadrons of RCSC fighter craft.”
As the magnitude of the Admiral’s proposition sank in, Celine nodded, steeling herself for the tasks ahead. She may have been caught off guard, but she was more than ready to lead her new fleet into whatever challenges awaited them in the vast expanse of space.
