The other face, uncomfortably close to the first, drew gasps across the bridge. “Oh, thank fucking Christ,” he sighed. “Tanner?” asked Naomi and Gina. Over the net linking captains among the task force, Khatri heard a familiar drawl: “Told ya.” “Who’s in charge there?” asked Tanner. “Sorry, I don’t recognize you.” “Mister Malone, I am Admiral Khatri of the Union Fleet. What is going on?” “Admiral, this is Empress Amara of Minos. Her people claim this planet. They were here before us. I’ve negotiated a cease fire in exchange for a complete evacuation and withdrawal from the planet.” Khatri said
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