VC Chapter 25-Fallen Heroes

Sector 1600

Planet 1604

January 24, 2052

In the NB ship bay was a docked Apocrypha surrounded by tons of engineers and scientists studying the components that make up the powerful cruiser. At the bottom of the bay were two platoons of soldiers standing neatly in their ceremonial uniforms.

“Today we gather not only to celebrate our successful capture of the Apocrypha and its thermal weapon technology, but we also pay tribute for the men and women who gave their lives for the mission.” Owens spoke to the crowd from his stand.

The front row of soldiers were notable NB officers who have joined in to paid their respects for their admiral. Jaimes stared at the portrait of Charlie in his military uniform with melancholy not able to accept the reality.

“Admiral Charlie Chu who led the mission along with several others are all presumed to be deceased after Chase's daring snatch and go in Tachyon Industries. Their ultimate sacrifice will be written down in our history so that these acts of bravery, honour, and valour will be remembered.” Owens looked at his piece of paper and paused.

Tarbuck looked at Owens and nodded for him to continue on with his eulogy.

“He was my friend. I remember the day he came to me and saw what I had in me where others had not. Charlie gave me a place where I could call home. A place where everyone had the right to freedom from VEGA's tyranny. We will finish his dreams together...as a team...and bring back galactic peace, civility, and diplomacy.” Owens finished and then folded the paper into his chest pocket.

Owens walked to the portrait of Charlie and saluted before he sat down beside Tarbuck. Du Preez stood up and straightened his uniform before he took this turn at the stand.

“I didn't write a speech to prepare for, but I can tell you that I remember the selfless acts Charlie always took part in. I was doing a patrol in defending the sector one day and our fleets got hammered by a surprise raid. Charlie came with his Nighthawks and covered my troops to safety while he tanked the shots for my crew. He was an admiral who never saw less of his men or women.” Du Preez bit his lip as he finished and saluted the portrait before walking to his seat.

One by one, the row of officers paid their respects until the end of ceremony was near. Twenty one soldiers shuffled from the sides with their pulse rifles and aimed at the sky.

“Ready...fire!” Wicker commanded with his ceremonial sabre.

The rounds of lasers echoed in the bay as the ceremony neared its end. Franklin and Stein watched as the NB flag was folded by six soldiers and given to Owens.

“It's sad that he didn't have a family.” Stein sighed deeply.

“We were his only family...” Franklin reminded.

 “Yeah...rest in peace old friend.” Stein muttered under his breath.