The Space Federation Headquarters buzzed with tension. Delegates from across the galaxy gathered in the grand hall, their faces solemn. At the head of the room, a man whose body shimmered with a golden hue stood. His elongated ears and black-speckled skin marked him as a Verdan. He spoke with a voice that echoed authority.
"What are your considerations about aiding the people of Earth in their battle against the Saltins?" he asked, his gaze piercing.
The room fell silent. The Saltins' conquest of Pluto had left scars across the galaxy, a chilling reminder of their unrelenting ambition. Fear gripped the leaders of the Mercan planet, who foresaw the Saltins extending their grasp to the remaining planets. In response, the Space Federation was formed—initially excluding Earth and the Saltins due to Earth's decentralized governance.
Commander Raven, a towering figure with crimson skin and eyes that glimmered like stars, spoke from her seat at the end of the table. Known for her strength and unwavering resolve, she was a respected leader among the Federation.
"Since the founding of the Space Federation, after the fall of Pluto, we pledged to protect planets from the Saltins' aggression," Raven began. Her voice was calm but firm, each word measured. "But this is too soon. We lack the recruits and equipment necessary to defend Earth effectively."
The weight of her words settled over the room like a heavy fog. Raven continued, "Engaging the Saltins now would be suicidal. We would be sacrificing our lives without ensuring victory."
A man of high rank adjusted his glasses, his face etched with concern. "So, are you saying we cannot assist Earth in this battle?" he asked.
Darius, seated nearby, interjected. "The Red Faction of Earth requested our help. They've offered their soldiers for training. But if we decline, what message does that send?"
Raven's expression hardened. "Our resources are stretched thin. We can't afford to risk our lives for those who haven't contributed to our cause."
Darius leaned forward, handing Raven a letter. "They have over two hundred recruits ready for training. They're prepared to fight."
Raven scanned the letter, her eyes narrowing. "We can't decide this today. We'll reconvene tomorrow." She dismissed the board, but before the generals could leave, she called out, "General Darius, stay behind."
As the room emptied, Raven turned to Darius. "Why are you so insistent on aiding the Red Faction?"
Darius's voice was steady. "With the right equipment, their soldiers can fend off the Saltins. If we help them now, we prevent a greater disaster later."
Raven slammed her hands on the table. "We've invested too much in our equipment to risk it on this battle."
Darius met her gaze. "If the Saltins conquer Earth, their next target could be us. We can't afford to stand by."
Raven sighed, her resolve wavering. "We'll decide tomorrow."
Darius nodded and left the room, leaving Raven deep in thought.
---
In the dimly lit prison aboard a Saltin ship, Fenric leaned against the cold metal wall. Across from him, Gaden, a towering figure with a monstrous presence, sat with a grim expression.
"Are you really fighting for the Saltins?" Fenric asked, his voice breaking the heavy silence.
Gaden's eyes darkened. "I spent years earning their trust, but my loyalty lies elsewhere. I'm here to destroy them."
Fenric chuckled softly. "Relax, man. Once we reach Earth, we'll plan our move. Together, we'll take down the Saltins and save my people."
Gaden clenched his fists, his muscles tensing. "My home was destroyed. I won't let the same happen to yours."
Fenric's thoughts drifted to his grandmother's dying wish. "Kill Saturn. Finish what I started," her voice echoed in his mind. He smirked, unsure how he would fulfill such a daunting task.
As sleep overtook him, Fenric found himself standing in a vast field of green, a small city rising in the distance. His grandmother's familiar voice broke the stillness.
"Fenric, I know you're worried about facing Saturn," she said, her eyes fixed on the stars above.
Turning towards her, Fenric's face lit up with a smile. "You always know my worries, Grandma."
Her presence brought him a sense of peace, even as the weight of his mission loomed large.