The dawn broke over the horizon, casting an eerie glow over the base on Nebula. Boyka stood on the edge of the cliff, watching the sky slowly brighten, its fiery hues staining the jagged peaks around them. It was a rare moment of stillness, but Boyka knew it was only the calm before the storm. The air was dense with the weight of unfinished battles and looming threats.
"How great of a morning this is," Boyka muttered under his breath as he strolled through the base. His voice carried a tone of irony, for he knew the fleeting peace would soon be shattered. "But if I am to be honest with myself, it only gets harder from here."
Just as Boyka finished his thought, a panicked voice called out from behind him.
"Commander! Commander!"
Boyka turned to see a soldier rushing toward him, sweat beading on his brow and urgency in his step.
"What is it?" Boyka asked, his voice calm yet commanding.
"The radar has picked up something, sir," the soldier panted. "A group of Abbadon's fighter jets is approaching the base. They're heading straight for us!"
Boyka's expression darkened, though his composure remained steady. "Gather everyone," he ordered. "Now is not the time to fight, nor to panic. We can't risk revealing our identities to Abbadon—not yet. We must outwit him, not face him head-on."
The soldier nodded, but concern etched his face. "Sir, how are we supposed to fool him? What if he finds out who we are?"
"That's where the captain of this base comes in," Boyka replied. "He holds the key to our survival. Fetch him for me immediately. And listen carefully—have everyone return to their posts and act as though nothing is amiss. This base must look as though it's still under Abbadon's control."
"But, Commander," the soldier hesitated, "the captain saw us kill his men. Do you really think he'll stay loyal to us?"
"Yes, I do," Boyka said firmly. "From what I've observed, Abbadon is hated by many, including his own soldiers. They fear him, yes, but fear can only suppress rebellion for so long. Given the chance, many of them would turn against him in a heartbeat. Trust me—this captain will be no different."
The soldier hesitated a moment longer, then saluted. "I'll carry out your orders, Commander."
---
Minutes later, the soldier returned with the captain in tow. The man's hands were bound, his uniform disheveled, and his face bore the weariness of a man who had seen too many battles.
"Commander, I've brought him as you requested," the soldier announced. "Do you need me to stay? I'd prefer not to leave you alone with this man."
Boyka shook his head. "No, I can handle him. You may go. Stand guard at the entrance and ensure we aren't interrupted."
"Yes, sir," the soldier replied, though he cast one last wary glance at the captain before leaving.
Boyka turned to the captain, his demeanor calm yet imposing. "Have a seat," he said, motioning to a chair. "I apologize for what you've been put through. Your men died not because they were part of this war, but because we are all pawns in the hands of our superiors. Cannon fodder, disposable in the grander schemes of empires."
The captain hesitated, his hands trembling slightly as he sat down.
"I have a plan," Boyka continued. "A plan that could help you make amends for the horrors you've been a part of. I know what kind of man Abbadon is—I've seen the destruction he's wrought. He's as much your enemy as he is mine. And if we're to succeed in ending his reign, I need your help."
The captain's composure cracked, and he began to sob quietly.
"You're right," he said, his voice breaking. "I've done terrible things—killed, maimed, all in the name of obedience. I thought I was protecting my family by following orders, but all I've done is bury myself deeper in guilt. Please, Commander, give me the chance to make this right. Let me atone for what I've done."
Boyka placed a hand on the man's shoulder, his voice softening. "I'm not without sin myself. None of us are innocent in this war. But you're right—you have a chance to make things right. Here's what I need you to do: when Abbadon arrives, you will act as if nothing has changed. Greet him as you normally would. He must remain oblivious to our presence here. Can you do that?"
"Yes, Commander," the captain said, nodding resolutely. "I won't let you down."
Boyka straightened and called out, "Soldier, are you out there?"
"Yes, Commander," came the reply from outside the door.
"Have his cuffs removed," Boyka ordered. "Clean him up, return his uniform, and ensure he has everything he needs to play his part. Be quick about it."
The soldier hesitated. "Are you sure, sir?"
"I'm sure," Boyka said firmly. "Do as I say."
"Yes, sir."
The captain was led away to prepare, leaving Boyka alone with his thoughts. He walked to the window, watching the horizon as the distant hum of engines grew louder. Abbadon was coming.
---
Moments later, a sleek, ominous spacecraft descended onto the base. Dust swirled in the air as the landing thrusters roared to life, shaking the ground. Boyka watched from the shadows as Abbadon's ship touched down, its black surface gleaming menacingly under the morning sun.
The ship's ramp lowered, and Abbadon stepped out, flanked by a contingent of his elite guards. His presence was as commanding as it was terrifying. Dressed in dark armor that seemed to absorb the light around it, he surveyed the base with a critical eye, his expression cold and calculating.
The captain approached him, his uniform pristine and his posture rigid. Bowing deeply, he greeted Abbadon with feigned respect. "My lord, welcome. It is an honor to have you here."
Abbadon's gaze lingered on the captain for a moment, as if trying to peer into the man's soul. Then he sighed, his voice heavy with disdain. "Spare me the pleasantries. I trust everything is in order here?"
"Yes, my lord," the captain replied smoothly. "We have secured the perimeter and remain vigilant against any threats."
"Good," Abbadon said, his tone curt. "I have little patience for incompetence."
As Abbadon continued his inspection of the base, Boyka watched from the shadows, his heart pounding. The captain's performance was flawless so far, but one misstep could spell disaster for them all.
Inwardly, Boyka steeled himself. This was only the beginning. The real battle lay ahead, and he would need every ounce of cunning, courage, and luck to see it through.
For now, all he could do was wait and hope that the forces of fate remained on his side.