Epilogue – Motok
Valtus stood on the bridge as if nothing had happened out of the ordinary.
My First wasn’t a warrior of many words, especially when he was caught up in his past. Recent events had dredged up the horrible details of his loss and I wasn’t sure how he was coping.
Oddly enough, he seemed in full control, but I would be the first to admit that his emotions weren’t always easy to read.
“The female is definitely my Venya’s sister,” I began, standing next to his side. “I don’t know what to make of this. Who was the female on that video? Why was such an effort made to conceal the truth?”
Valtus never turned in my direction but answered in a low voice laced with venom. “I assume it was to cover any evidence of their treachery or participation in the slave trade.”
“As much as I wish that were untrue, you are correct.”
“There’s something else I found when browsing those files that we finally decrypted.”
“Oh? What was it?”
“They’ve stumbled upon some kind of experimental tech. It’s far advanced, even for our scientists.”
“What does it do?”
“I’m not sure yet but it was used to alter the female’s DNA, voice, and physical attributes on the video to clone Kacie Hargrave. I think they were testing its success.”
“Cloning is mediocre at best. It’s never fully successful.” Concerned with his revelation, I hoped he was wrong. “How do you know this for sure?”
“I didn’t until today. I had my suspicions before we landed on Cryton. Before we left the planet, I set up a remote download of their database. I hoped to gain a little Intel. I was able to salvage more than I anticipated.”
“And?”
“This goes far beyond the council. Members of the Galactic Conclave are also involved. I have placed all the data in your personal files. View them once you’re able and alone. Keep it safe. I only have a few copies.”
“What are you saying?”
“You should know that I plan on pursuing this as far as I can. I won’t stop until we find the full extent of both the council and the Conclave’s involvement and the identity of the individuals responsible for funding this level of betrayal and violation of the Cardinal Edict.”
“I understand and I agree. You have my full support, Valtus.”
He nodded, clenching his fists behind his back.
“I will seek vengeance on Kacie’s behalf.
I regret that I must submit my resignation as your First.” He finally turned and met my shocked gaze.
“I can’t ask you to follow me into that kind of danger.
You have a child on the way. Your Venya needs you.
You must remain Commander of the Vindicator. ”
Placing a hand on his shoulder, I squeezed. “I can’t stop you, but I wish you would reconsider. You’re needed here. What of Kacie’s reaction? What will she think when you abandon her to seek your revenge?”
He flinched, his eyes narrowing. “I will explain. Kacie will understand. I know she will.”
“There’s not a thing I can do to change your mind, is there?”
Valtus shook his head, removing the pin that designated his rank. He placed it on my palm before standing straight, his voice loud and clear as he spoke. “It has been my greatest pleasure serving with you and the crew of the Vindicator.”
The warriors nearby heard and several stood, surprised by his words.
Valtus walked away briskly, headed toward the medical bay where I knew he would inform Kacie of his choice. The comm device that he gave the female would allow him to contact her whenever he was in range. I had no doubt he would do so as often as possible.
“Cosmos protect you,” I whispered, struggling with both fear and pride for my greatest friend and fellow warrior. “May our enemies meet swift justice at your hands.”