Chapter 156 (1/2)

Frazier

Forty five minutes earlier, the Aurora class vessel had exited hyperspace and established high orbit around Chulak under cloak. Recent developments in the war suddenly turned very hot against Traditionalist Jaffa forces brought about this sudden deployment on the other side of the Milky Way. While the powerful sensors scanned the planet beneath them for the small tracking beacon given to both Rak'nor and Ry'ac, they also took stock of many other things on Chulak. Once again, the Tauri were operating under the precept of trust but verify.

After locating the tracking beacons of the two Progressive sect Jaffa leaders, the two men's movements had been watched closely. Beaming the men away from the planet while surrounded by their countrymen would only serve to alert all that a Tauri or Asgard vessel was nearby. Waiting patiently, the sensor operators aboard Frazier kept a close eye on the two men and their surroundings. Half an hour later their effort was rewarded as the two men moved off together to less crowded surroundings. Following orders, the sensor operators immediately beamed the two men directly into a small conference room aboard the vessel. Already seated in this conference room was Lt. Colonel Paul Davis.

”Ry'ac, Rak'nor, welcome aboard the Frazier. Let me apologize for the unexpected transport.” Davis began.

”This is a breech of the system of communications we've laid out.” Rak'nor stated somewhat annoyed.

”It is always good to see anyone from your world Colonel.” Ry'ac said pleasantly.

”Recent developments necessitated this meeting. That being the case, we have several matters to discuss.” Davis explained.

”A rumor has been heard by many of an attack on the Traditionalist base of Dar Eshkalon.” Rak'nor stated.

”Since this rumor began, the rebel forces have pulled back and avoided battle against our positions.” Ry'ac added.

”An attack on Dar Eshkalon was mounted with elements of our ground forces. It was a successful strike with multiple casualties. The rebel base was neutralized, and intelligence was gathered. After our intelligence officials have evaluated what was found we will of course make it available to you. Before this operation began, our vessels detected two separate groups of Ha'tak class vessels both in the solar system and outside of it. As the ground assault progressed, these two groups of vessels jumped to hyperspace.” Davis informed his guests.

”Why were these vessels not destroyed?” Rak'nor demanded.

”This mission was planned as strictly a ground assault. Our vessels in orbit were needed to support ground forces and unfortunately could not engage the Ha'tak's detected.” Davis replied, lacking an apologetic tone.

”Colonel, we would hope that these vessels were destroyed or captured. With these vessels the rebels can mount an assault on Chulak itself.” Ry'ac countered.