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▶A dangerous crash brings Commander Watson face-to-face with a powerful alien queen. As survival turns to an unexpected partnership, a revelation shakes the foundations of two civilizations. What begins as a standoff might redefine their galaxy forever.
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Experience a unique Sci-Fi Story where Humans are Space Orcs, demonstrating their resilience and ingenuity in a universe filled with challenges. This Sci-Fi Short Story, inspired by the popular Reddit HFY Stories and the intriguing concept of Humans are Space Orcs, promises a blend of adventure, conflict, and the triumph of the human spirit.
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FunTranscript
00:00The eight-foot alien queen laughed at the idea of breeding with a human until she got pregnant.
00:05The howling wind carried stinging particles of ice across the alien landscape
00:09as Commander Will Watson fought with the manual controls of his rapidly descending shuttle.
00:15The vessel's hull groaned under the strain of atmospheric entry,
00:19its systems failing one by one as the strange interference from this unexplored world
00:24played havoc with the electronics.
00:26Come on, you piece of shit, he growled, muscles straining against the control yoke.
00:31Just a little longer.
00:33The ground rushed up to meet him, a blanket of white broken only by the dark shapes of alien vegetation.
00:39The shuttle's remaining engine sputtered and died just as he managed to level out,
00:43leaving him in an eerie silence, broken only by the whistle of wind through the damaged hull.
00:48Impact.
00:49The crash threw him against his restraints hard enough to knock the wind from his lungs.
00:53When the world stopped spinning, Will found himself hanging upside down,
00:58blood trickling from a cut above his eye.
01:00The cockpit window had cracked, but somehow held together,
01:03offering a pristine view of the snow-covered ground mere inches from his face.
01:08Well, he muttered, releasing his harness and dropping to what used to be the ceiling.
01:12That could have gone better.
01:13A quick inventory revealed that most of his emergency supplies had survived, including his powered armor.
01:19The black combat suit, a marvel of human engineering, would keep him alive in this hostile environment.
01:26At least for a while.
01:27Will suited up, leaving the helmet off for now to conserve power and emerge into the alien winter.
01:32The snow came up to his knees, and the wind cut through his blonde hair like frozen razor blades.
01:38His tactical display showed the temperature at minus 40 degrees Celsius.
01:42Mayday, mayday.
01:43He broadcast on all frequencies.
01:46This is Commander Watson of the ESS Hyperion.
01:49Does anyone copy?
01:50Static was his only answer.
01:52Something moved in his peripheral vision.
01:55A flash of orange against the white landscape.
01:57Will spun on hand instinctively, reaching for his pulse rifle,
02:00but saw nothing except swaying alien trees.
02:03He needed shelter and resources.
02:05The shuttle's power cells were fried,
02:08and the backup wouldn't last more than a few days in these conditions.
02:10According to his scanners, there was a large geological formation,
02:15about two kilometers to the north, that might offer protection from the elements.
02:18As he trudged through the snow, Will couldn't shake the feeling of being watched.
02:22His combat training kept his senses alert,
02:25even as his mind wandered to how he'd ended up in this mess.
02:29The Hyperion had been mapping this sector when they detected an unusual energy signature.
02:34Standard procedure would have been to market for later investigation.
02:37But humanity's expansion into the galaxy had been marked by an almost reckless drive
02:42to push further, faster.
02:45A crack of breaking ice behind him made Will whirl around, rifle raised.
02:49This time, he wasn't imagining things.
02:52Standing before him was the most striking alien he'd ever encountered.
02:55She towered over him, easily eight feet tall,
02:59with skin the color of a sunset and hair like flowing copper.
03:01Her armor, if it could be called that, seemed to be made of overlapping orange scales
03:07that left little to the imagination while somehow maintaining an air of martial dignity.
03:13She held a weapon that looked like a cross between a spear and a plasma rifle,
03:17pointed directly at his chest.
03:19Well, hello there, Will said, keeping his own weapon steady but not directly aimed at her.
03:23I don't suppose you'd be interested in a friendly chat?
03:26The alien's eyes, golden and cat-like, narrowed.
03:31When she spoke, her voice was deep and melodious,
03:33and to his surprise, his universal translator handled it perfectly.
03:37You are either very brave or very foolish to enter the sovereign territory of the Salarian Empire, human.
03:43Would you believe I'm just lost?
03:45He flashed his most charming smile.
03:48Commander Will Watson, at your service.
03:50And you are, I am Queen Aurelia of the Salarian Empire, and you,
03:56she paused, those fascinating eyes scanning him from head to toe,
04:00are my prisoner.
04:02Will kept his easy smile in place, though his mind raced through tactical options.
04:07Your Majesty, I'm flattered by the attention,
04:10but I typically prefer dinner before being taken prisoner.
04:13A sound escaped her that might have been a laugh.
04:16You just, in the face of capture, typical human bravado.
04:22Not bravado, just good manners.
04:24Besides, you haven't captured me yet.
04:27His armor systems were already analyzing her weapon, calculating threat levels.
04:32Though I admit the company's better than I expected when I crashed here,
04:36Aurelia's weapon didn't waver, but something like amusement flickered across her features.
04:40You think to charm your way out of this situation?
04:42I've heard tales of human males and their... proclivities.
04:47Did you expect to find some submissive alien female to rescue you?
04:50Actually, I was hoping to find shelter before I freeze my ass off.
04:54The company of a beautiful alien queen is just a bonus.
04:57He gestured at the strengthening storm.
04:59Speaking of which, this weather's getting worse.
05:02Maybe we could continue this discussion somewhere warmer?
05:05You dare to proposition me?
05:07Her voice carried equal parts outrage and fascination.
05:10Wouldn't dream of it, your majesty.
05:13Just suggesting we both might be more comfortable having this standoff indoors?
05:17A particularly fierce gust of wind whipped snow between them.
05:22And Will noticed her slight shiver despite her apparent resistance to the cold.
05:26The storm was getting dangerous, even by his enhanced armor standards.
05:30Your suggestion has merit, she finally conceded.
05:33My outpost is nearby.
05:34You will accompany me as my prisoner.
05:37Lead the way.
05:38Though I should warn you, I'm not great at following orders.
05:41As they trudged through the deepening snow, Will kept a careful distance,
05:46noting how she moved with predatory grace despite her size.
05:50His suit sensors indicated she was generating significant body heat.
05:54Far more than a human would.
05:56I must admit, she said after several minutes of walking,
05:59you are not what I expected from the reports of human males.
06:02Oh, and what did you expect?
06:05Smaller?
06:06Weaker?
06:07More?
06:08Primitive?
06:10She cast him a sidelong glance.
06:12The data suggested your species would be barely worth conquering.
06:16Will chuckled.
06:18Sounds like you need better intelligence sources.
06:20Humanity's full of surprises.
06:22So I'm beginning to see.
06:24They reached what appeared to be a solid rock face.
06:27But at her touch, a hidden door slid open.
06:30Though I find it hard to believe your kind could ever truly challenge the Salarian Empire,
06:34the very idea of breeding with a human male is laughable.
06:38Funny you should mention that.
06:41Will started but was cut off by a deafening explosion from above.
06:44The mountain shook and chunks of ice and rock began raining down.
06:48Without thinking, Will tackled Aurelia through the doorway
06:51as the entrance collapsed behind them, sealing them inside.
06:54They landed in an undignified heap,
06:57his armored form pressed against her considerably taller frame.
07:01For a moment, they just stared at each other in the emergency lighting
07:04that had automatically activated.
07:07Well, Will said, still not moving.
07:09Looks like we'll have plenty of time to discuss interspecies relations.
07:13The emergency lighting cast an ethereal glow through the outpost corridors,
07:17painting everything in shades of amber that complemented Queen Aurelia's exotic features.
07:23Will found himself studying her as she paced the command center,
07:26her impressive height forcing her to duck occasionally under lower sections of the ceiling.
07:31The communications array is damaged,
07:33she announced frustration evident in her melodious voice.
07:36We're cut off from the outside.
07:38Will leaned against a console, deliberately casual.
07:42Could be worse.
07:43At least we have life support and climate control.
07:45He gestured to his armor's readouts.
07:48Environmental systems are stable,
07:50and I'm picking up enough stored power to last weeks.
07:53Aurelia turned to face him,
07:55her golden eyes gleaming in the dim light.
07:57You seem remarkably unconcerned for someone trapped
07:59with a potentially hostile alien queen.
08:02Potentially hostile.
08:04That's an improvement from earlier.
08:05He grinned.
08:06Besides, I've been in worse situations,
08:08though usually with less interesting company.
08:11She made that sound again.
08:13Not quite a laugh, but close.
08:15You humans and your persistent attempts at charm.
08:18Is it working?
08:20Don't be absurd.
08:21But there was something in her tone that suggested otherwise.
08:25She moved closer, towering over him.
08:27Though, I must admit, you're intriguing.
08:32Most species cower before the Salarian Empire.
08:35Will straightened up, closing some of the distance between them.
08:38Maybe they never took the time to get to know you.
08:40And you wish to...
08:42Get to know me?
08:44Her voice dropped lower, taking on a dangerous edge.
08:48Well, we are stuck here together.
08:50Might as well make the best of it.
08:52He gestured to his armor.
08:53This suit's got some interesting scanning capabilities.
08:58Want to know what it tells me about Salarian physiology?
09:02Her eyes narrowed.
09:03You dare to scan me?
09:05Standard protocol.
09:06For instance, I know your core temperature runs about 15 degrees hotter than mine.
09:11Your heart...
09:12Hearts, actually.
09:13Beat in a fascinating rhythm.
09:15And your pheromone levels spike whenever you get close to me.
09:18Aurelia's orange skin flushed a deeper shade.
09:21You're very presumptuous for a prisoner.
09:23Am I still a prisoner?
09:25Seems more like we're reluctant roommates at this point.
09:28She closed the distance between them further,
09:30until she was looking down at him from mere inches away.
09:34Perhaps I should remind you of your position.
09:37My position is pretty good from where I'm standing.
09:39His eyes met hers without flinching.
09:42Though I'm open to suggestions for improvement,
09:44a low growl escaped her throat.
09:46Not entirely threatening.
09:49You play a dangerous game, human.
09:52Will, he corrected.
09:53And I'm not playing.
09:55Something shifted in the air between them.
09:57An electric tension that had nothing to do with the outpost systems.
10:01Aurelia's hand moved to his face.
10:03Her fingers surprisingly gentle as they traced the cut above his eye from the crash.
10:08Your species is so fragile, she murmured.
10:11So brief-lived compared to mine.
10:14Yet you show no fear.
10:15Should I be afraid?
10:17Yes.
10:18But she didn't move away.
10:20This is madness.
10:22The very idea of interaction between our species.
10:26Will reached up, his armored hand carefully brushing a strand of copper-colored hair from her face.
10:31Sometimes madness makes perfect sense.
10:35The kiss, when it came, was like touching a live wire.
10:40Her skin burned against his, alien yet impossibly alluring.
10:45Time seemed to lose meaning as they explored this new territory, breaking barriers that should have been insurmountable.
10:51Later, much later, they lay together in what passed for a rest chamber, their bodies cooling in the artificial atmosphere.
10:58Will traced patterns on her orange skin, marveling at how it seemed to shimmer under his touch.
11:03Still think the idea of breeding with a human male is laughable, he asked, unable to keep the smugness from his voice.
11:12Aurelia propped herself up on an elbow, looking down at him with an expression that mixed amusement and something deeper.
11:18You may have altered my perspective on certain matters.
11:23Happy to help expand your horizons.
11:26She rolled her eyes, a surprisingly human gesture.
11:28Your ego is remarkable.
11:30Part of my charm.
11:32This changes nothing, she said, but her tone lacked conviction.
11:36When we're rescued, if we're rescued, this will remain our secret, she paused, considering.
11:42Though perhaps we should conduct further cultural exchange while we wait.
11:47Will grinned.
11:48For science, of course.
11:50For science, she agreed, then grew serious.
11:53Though there are things you should understand about my species.
11:56About our... compatibility.
11:59Before she could continue, a deep rumble shook the outpost.
12:03Warning lights flashed as systems began reporting multiple failures.
12:06That's not good, Uruen, Will said, reaching for his armor.
12:10Aurelia was already moving, her warrior's instincts taking over.
12:15The explosion must have destabilized the mountain.
12:17We need to.
12:18Another shockwave hit.
12:20Stronger than the first.
12:21Equipment crashed to the floor as the very walls seemed to groan under immense pressure.
12:25Time to go, Will announced, securing his armor.
12:28Please tell me this place has an emergency exit?
12:30There's a maintenance shaft that leads to the surface.
12:34But the ceiling chose that moment to start collapsing.
12:38The maintenance shaft proved to be a tight squeeze, particularly for Aurelia's towering frame.
12:44Will led the way, his armor's lights illuminating the narrow passage as they climbed upward through the mountain's interior.
12:50Your majesty, he called back.
12:53Not that I'm complaining about the view, but you've been unusually quiet.
12:58Focus on climbing, human, she responded, but her voice lacked its usual imperial authority.
13:03Instead, she sounded distracted.
13:05The shaft terminated in a heavy hatch.
13:08Will braced himself against the walls and pushed.
13:11Servos in his armor whining with effort until the seal broke with a hiss of pressurized air.
13:16A blast of frigid wind and snow greeted them as they emerged onto the mountainside.
13:21The storm had intensified.
13:23Turning the landscape into a white blur, Will's tactical display showed temperatures had dropped another ten degrees.
13:29But something else caught his attention.
13:31Aurelia was shivering violently.
13:34This isn't right, she muttered, wrapping her arms around herself.
13:37Salarians don't.
13:39We don't feel cold like this.
13:41Will's suit immediately began analyzing her vital signs.
13:45Your core temperature is fluctuating wildly.
13:48We need shelter.
13:50He spotted a natural cave formation nearby and guided her toward it,
13:54noting how she leaned into his support despite their height difference.
13:57Inside the cave, he activated his armor's emergency beacon and began setting up a temporary camp,
14:02using supplies from his survival kit.
14:05Will, Aurelia said, her voice uncharacteristically uncertain.
14:09Something is happening to me.
14:11He turned to find her examining her own hand with fascination.
14:15Her orange skin seemed to pulse with an inner light.
14:18In his suit's sensors were going crazy, trying to interpret the readings.
14:22Talk to me, he said, moving closer.
14:25What are you feeling?
14:27Everything is, um, more.
14:30Colors are brighter.
14:31Sensations are stronger.
14:33She looked at him, those golden eyes now literally glowing.
14:37And there's something else.
14:38Something growing.
14:41Will's suit beeped with an urgent notification.
14:43The biological scan results made his breath catch.
14:47Aurelia, according to these readings, you're pregnant,
14:50she finished a mix of wonder and disbelief in her voice.
14:53With a hybrid child, impossible.
14:55Our species shouldn't be compatible.
14:59Clearly, someone forgot to tell our DNI that.
15:02He reached for her hand and she intertwined her fingers with his.
15:06Are you okay?
15:07A laugh bubbled up from her throat.
15:09Genuine this time.
15:11Not the controlled sound from before.
15:13Okay.
15:14I'm carrying what could be the first human Salarian child in history.
15:19My counsel will have collective apoplexy.
15:21The genetic purist will demand my abdication.
15:25And yet, she pulled him closer, her free hand tracing the contours of his armor.
15:31Yet I find myself fascinated by the possibilities.
15:34You're not angry.
15:36Angry.
15:37She smiled, showing slightly pointed teeth.
15:39My people have spent centuries believing we were superior to all other species.
15:44In one night, you've proven that humans are not only our equals, but potentially compatible mates.
15:50Do you know what this means?
15:52That I'm about to become the most wanted man in the Salarian Empire?
15:56That and so much more.
15:59Her expression turned predatory.
16:01It means evolution.
16:03Change.
16:03A future neither of our species imagined possible.
16:07The cave suddenly felt much warmer.
16:09Will's suit helpfully informed him that Aurelia's pheromone levels were rising again.
16:14Your temperature's stabilizing, he noted, trying to maintain some professionalism.
16:18But we should probably run more tests, just to be safe.
16:21Indeed.
16:22She pulled him even closer.
16:24Very thorough tests.
16:26A distant explosion interrupted what promised to be an interesting scientific inquiry.
16:31Will's tactical display lit up with multiple contacts approaching the near position.
16:36We've got company, he announced.
16:38There was at least three ships, probably more hidden by the storm.
16:43Aurelia's expression hardened into the regal mask he'd first encountered.
16:47The council.
16:48They must have detected the outpost collapse.
16:51She straightened to her full height.
16:53Every inch a queen, despite her disheveled appearance.
16:56They cannot find us together.
16:58Not yet.
16:59Not until we understand what this means.
17:01I'm not leaving you.
17:03You must.
17:05She cupped his face in her hands.
17:07My people will not harm their queen, but they would kill you on sight.
17:11I need time to prepare them for everything.
17:15Another explosion.
17:16Closer this time.
17:18Searchlights began cutting through the storm.
17:20There's a human settlement two days journey south.
17:23She continued quickly.
17:24Find your people.
17:25I will contact you when it's safe.
17:28How?
17:29She pressed something into his hand.
17:32A small crystal that pulsed with the same inner light as her skin.
17:36This will lead you back to me.
17:37Now go.
17:38Will hesitated for a moment, then pulled her down into a fierce kiss.
17:42This isn't goodbye.
17:44No, she agreed, pushing him toward the cave's rear exit.
17:47It's just the beginning.
17:49He activated his armor's stealth systems and slipped out into the storm just as the
17:53first search party reached the cave's entrance.
17:55The last thing he heard was Aurelia's voice, strong and commanding, berating her guards
18:00for taking so long to find their queen.
18:03As he made his way south through the blizzard, Will couldn't help grinning.
18:07The crystal pulsed warmly in his hand, and his suit's sensors continued monitoring Aurelia's
18:11vital signs through their newly established biological link.
18:16Well, he muttered to himself, that's one way to improve human-alien relations.
18:20Two days of trudging through alien wilderness had done nothing to dampen Will's spirits.
18:26The crystal from Aurelia pulsed steadily against his chest, and his suit's biomonitors
18:31continued reporting her vital signs, both hers and their improbable childs.
18:36He crested a ridge and finally spotted the human settlement.
18:40New Darwin, according to his nav system, the collection of prefab buildings and makeshift
18:45defense towers looked like every other frontier colony he'd seen, except for one
18:50detail.
18:51They were preparing for war.
18:53Well, shit, he muttered, watching armored vehicles patrol the perimeter.
18:57His tactical display highlighted at least three planetary defense batteries being installed.
19:02The settlement's security picked him up before he made it halfway down the ridge.
19:05A squad of powered armored troops surrounded him, weapons raised.
19:09Commander Watson, a familiar voice called out.
19:12You're supposed to be dead.
19:14Colonel Sarah Hayes stepped forward, her weathered face breaking into a rare smile.
19:17Well, the Hyperion reported your shuttle went down in Salarian territory three days ago.
19:23Good to see you too, Sarah, he gestured at the military buildup.
19:26Want to tell me what's got everyone so trigger-happy?
19:29Her expression darkened.
19:31Let's talk inside.
19:32You're not going to like this.
19:34The colony's command center was a hive of activity.
19:37Strategic displays show troop movements, both human and Salarian, while analysts poured over
19:42intelligence reports.
19:44The Salarian Empire is in chaos, Hayes explained, pulling up classified footage.
19:50Their queen disappeared three days ago, right when you crashed.
19:52Their military's mobilizing, and our intel suggests a coup is brewing.
19:56Will kept his face carefully neutral.
19:59Any idea what happened to the queen?
20:01That's where it gets interesting.
20:03Hayes played a recording of a Salarian transmission.
20:05According to their own chatter, she's pregnant.
20:07The genetic purists are calling it an abomination.
20:11But get this, a growing faction of their military supports her.
20:14They're calling it the next step in evolution.
20:18You don't say.
20:19The real problem is this asshole.
20:21The display showed a towering Salarian male in ornate armor.
20:25It's High Commander Pyrax.
20:27He's convinced the queen was corrupted by human spies.
20:30Claims the pregnancy is proof of our biological warfare.
20:34Will whistled.
20:35That's quite a leap.
20:35He's using it to justify a preemptive strike against human settlements.
20:41Hence our current preparations.
20:43Before Will could respond, alarms blared throughout the base.
20:47A junior officer burst into the room.
20:50Colonel, we're picking up multiple ships entering orbit.
20:53It's the Salarian Royal Guard.
20:55Hayes grabbed her command helmet.
20:56Battle stations.
20:58All units.
20:59Wait.
21:00Will held up his hands.
21:01Let me talk to them first.
21:02Are you insane, Bill?
21:03The command center's main display crackled to life, revealing Aurelia in full royal regalia.
21:10Her orange skin seemed to glow with an inner fire, and her presence commanded attention even through the screen.
21:15People of New Darwin, she announced.
21:18I am Queen Aurelia of the Salarian Empire.
21:21I come seeking asylum.
21:23The room erupted in chaos.
21:25Hayes barked orders while analysts scrambled to verify the transmission.
21:29Will simply smiled, feeling the crystal pulse in time with his heartbeat.
21:33Aurelia's eyes found him in the crowd.
21:36Commander Watson, I believe we have some matters to discuss.
21:39Your majesty.
21:41He stepped forward, ignoring Hayes' attempted protest.
21:44I trust you're feeling well?
21:46Better by the day.
21:48Her smile held promises that made several officers blush.
21:51Though I find myself missing our scientific discussions.
21:56Before anyone could react to that loaded statement, proximity alarms screamed.
22:01New contacts appeared in orbit.
22:03Salarian warships bearing Parax's colors.
22:06My dear Queen, a new voice boomed across all frequencies.
22:11High Commander Parax's hologram materialized beside Aurelia's.
22:15How convenient to find you with the very humans who corrupted you.
22:19The only corruption here is your outdated thinking, Pyrax.
22:23Aurelia's voice could have frozen plasma.
22:26Stand down.
22:27I think not.
22:29His smile was predatory.
22:31The council has spoken.
22:32You will be cleansed, the abomination removed, and the human vermin exterminated.
22:38Will stepped closer to the display.
22:40Hey, tall, dark, and fascist.
22:42That's my abomination you're talking about.
22:45Dead silence fell across all channels.
22:48Hayes buried her face in her hands.
22:50Pyrax looked like he'd been slapped with a fish.
22:53Aurelia's laughter, rich and genuine, broke the tension.
22:57Well, my love, I suppose that's one way to announce it.
23:00You!
23:01Pyrax's face contorted with rage.
23:03You dare to claim?
23:04Oh, I dare?
23:05A lot of things, Ewell's grin was sharp enough to cut.
23:08Including knocking up your queen.
23:10Turns out humans and Salarians aren't so different after all.
23:14This is impossible.
23:15Clearly not, Aurelia countered, one hand resting on her midsection.
23:18Our child represents everything you fear, Pyrax.
23:22Change, evolution, the end of your precious genetic purity.
23:26And do you know what else?
23:28Her golden eyes blazed.
23:29Half the fleet supports me.
23:31How many ships do you command again?
23:33As if on cue, new signatures appeared on tactical displays.
23:37Salarian warships dropping out of hyperspace, bearing the queen's colors.
23:42Last chance, Pyrax, Will called out.
23:44Stand down or find out exactly why humans have a reputation for being troublesome.
23:49The standoff lasted three heartbeats before Pyrax's ships began powering up weapons.
23:54So be it, Aurelia sighed.
23:56Commander Watson, would you care to help me deal with this rebellion?
24:00Will cracked his knuckles.
24:02Thought you'd never ask, your majesty.
24:04The battle above New Darwin unfolded like a deadly ballet.
24:08Pyrax's forces, though outnumbered, fought with the desperate fury of fanatics.
24:13But they hadn't counted on one crucial factor.
24:17Human ingenuity combined with Salarian might.
24:20Will stood on the bridge of Aurelia's flagship, the Imperial Dawn, coordinating with both fleets.
24:26His combat suit interfaced seamlessly with Salarian systems, thanks to some creative programming,
24:31and what he suspected was his newfound biological connection to their queen.
24:34Your tactics are unconventional, Aurelia observed from her command throne,
24:41watching him direct ships in patterns that made her tactician's head spin.
24:46Hey, humans excel at thinking outside the box, he replied, fingers dancing across holographic controls.
24:52Speaking of which, incoming.
24:54The Imperial Dawn shuddered as Pyrax's flagship launched a barrage of plasma torpedoes.
25:00Before the Salarian gunners could react, Will had already calculated an intercept solution
25:05that turned the enemy's own weapons against them.
25:08Impressive, Aurelia purred, then suddenly gasped, one hand pressing against her midsection.
25:14Will was at her side instantly, suit sensors scanning.
25:18What's wrong?
25:19The child?
25:20Her golden eyes widened with wonder.
25:22It's growing far faster than normal.
25:25The combination of our genetics seems to have triggered an accelerated development cycle.
25:28A medical officer rushed forward with scanning equipment, but Aurelia waved him away.
25:34I'm fine.
25:35The sensation is intense, but not uncomfortable.
25:40She caught Will's worried look and smiled.
25:42Your offspring is as impatient as you are, my love.
25:46My queen, her chief advisor interrupted,
25:49we're receiving transmissions from every major system in the Empire.
25:52News of your condition has spread.
25:55Good, Aurelia stood, her impressive height somehow even more commanding, despite her visible pregnancy.
26:02Open a channel to all frequencies, both human and Salarian.
26:06The bridge crew scrambled to comply.
26:08Will moved to stand beside her, noting how she subtly leaned against him for support.
26:12People of the Salarian Empire, she began, her voice carrying the weight of centuries of authority,
26:17and honored representatives of humanity.
26:20You see before you what some call impossible.
26:23The union of our species.
26:24Not through warfare or diplomacy, but through love.
26:28Pyrax's voice cut across the channels.
26:30Propaganda.
26:31The humans have corrupted our queen with their...
26:34Oh, shut up, Will interrupted.
26:36You're just jealous you didn't think of it first.
26:38Scattered laughter echoed across both fleets.
26:41Breaking the tension.
26:42Even some of Pyrax's own ships seemed to waver in their formation.
26:45The old ways are changing, Aurelia continued.
26:49Evolution demands it.
26:51My child, our child, represents not the end of Salarian purity, but the beginning of something
26:57greater.
26:58A bridge between our peoples.
27:00She paused and grimacing slightly.
27:02Will's suit registered another spike in her biological readings.
27:06The pregnancy is progressing rapidly, the medical officer whispered.
27:09Hours instead of months.
27:11Then we'd better wrap this up quick, Will muttered, then addressed the fleet.
27:15Listen up.
27:17Your queen is about to give birth to the first human-Solarian hybrid in history.
27:21Anyone who has a problem with that can take it up with me, personally.
27:25And fair warning, I've got a pretty impressive track record with impossible situations.
27:30The crystal against his chest pulsed warmly, and he felt Aurelia's amusement through their
27:34link.
27:35Always so dramatic, she teased, then doubled over as another contraction hit.
27:40My queen!
27:41Several officers moved to help, but Will was faster, scooping her up despite their height
27:45difference.
27:46Medical bay, he ordered.
27:48Now!
27:49The battle!
27:50She protested.
27:51Will, wait!
27:52He looked at her chief advisor.
27:54You have command.
27:55Don't let Pyrax escape, but try not to kill him.
27:58He might make a useful example later.
28:00The advisor bowed deeply.
28:02As you command, my...
28:04Lord!
28:05Will grinned as he carried Aurelia from the bridge.
28:08We'll figure out titles later.
28:10Right now, I've got a date with Destiny in the delivery room.
28:13You're enjoying this far too much, Aurelia grumbled against his neck.
28:17Says the woman, who laughed at the idea of breeding with a human male.
28:21I'm not laughing now.
28:22No, he agreed, feeling the crystal pulse in time with both their heartbeats and something
28:27else.
28:28Something new.
28:29But I bet our kid will have a hell of a sense of humor.
28:32Behind them, the battle continued to unfold.
28:34But within the Imperial Dawn's medical bay, a different kind of history was about to
28:39be made.
28:40One that would change both species forever.
28:42The medical staff, a mix of human and Salarian experts hastily assembled, worked to prepare
28:47for something unprecedented.
28:49Their instruments registered energy readings off the scale, as if reality itself was holding
28:55its breath in anticipation.
28:56You know, Will said, holding Aurelia's hand as the medical team worked, this isn't exactly
29:03how I plan to meet your family.
29:05Her laughter turned into another groan as the accelerated pregnancy progressed.
29:10When this is over, I'm going to make you pay for every terrible joke.
29:15Promise?
29:16Her response was cut off by a new sensation that made every light in the medical bay flicker.
29:21The crystal between them pulsed with blinding intensity.
29:25Oh, Aurelia breathed.
29:26This is going to be interesting.
29:28The medical bay's pristine white walls thrummed with energy as Aurelia's labor progressed
29:33at its supernatural pace.
29:35Will hadn't left her side, his combat suit's sensors providing real-time data to the mixed
29:40team of human and Salarian doctors, who watched in fascination as history unfolded before
29:44them.
29:45My queen!
29:47An aide burst through the doors.
29:48Hi, Commander Pyrax has broken through the defensive line.
29:52He's boarding the ship.
29:54And Will's tactical display lit up with multiple hostile signatures moving through the Imperial
29:58Dawn.
29:59Of course he is, because this day wasn't exciting enough.
30:03Aurelia grabbed his arm with strength that would have crushed unarmored bones.
30:07Go!
30:08Stop him!
30:09Protect our child!
30:10I'm not leaving you!
30:12You're not?
30:13She pressed the pulsing crystal into his hand.
30:16We're connected now, remember?
30:17Besides, dot, dot, dot.
30:21Her golden eyes flickered with amusement, despite her discomfort.
30:25I'd rather like to see you put that human ingenuity to work against that pompous ass.
30:30The ship shuddered from internal explosions.
30:33Will's display showed Pyrax's forces converging on their position.
30:37Doctor, he addressed the chief medical officer.
30:40How long?
30:41Minutes at most.
30:42The energy readings are off the charts.
30:45Will kissed Aurelia deeply, then stood.
30:47Hold that thought, your majesty.
30:49I've got a quick errand to run.
30:51Try not to damage my ship too badly, she called after him.
30:55No promises.
30:56The corridor outside medical was already a battlefield.
30:59Will sealed the doors behind him and activated his suit's full combat protocols.
31:04The crystal hummed against his chest, somehow amplifying his neural connection to the armor.
31:09Attention all hand, he broadcast ship-wide.
31:13This is Commander Watson.
31:14We've got party crashers trying to ruin a very special delivery.
31:17Let's show them some human hospitality.
31:20The response was immediate.
31:22Both human and Salarian crew members rallied, coordinating their efforts through his tactical network.
31:27Pyrax forces found themselves facing an unprecedented combination of human guerrilla tactics and Salarian martial prowess.
31:33Impressive, Pyrax's voice boomed through the ship.
31:37But futile.
31:38The abomination must not be born.
31:41You know, Will replied while setting up improvised explosive charges.
31:44For someone so obsessed with genetic purity, you sure talk a lot about my kid.
31:50Feeling inadequate?
31:52The taunt had its intended effect.
31:54Pyrax troops broke formation, charging forward recklessly, straight into Will's trap.
32:00The explosions weren't meant to kill, just to drive them exactly where he wanted them.
32:05Through it all, the crystal pulsed stronger, and Will felt Aurelia's presence in his mind growing more intense.
32:11Something was building, like static before a lightning strike.
32:15My lord!
32:16A Salarian officer called out.
32:18And wasn't that still weird to hear?
32:20High Commander Pyrax is approaching the medical bay from the secondary access shaft.
32:26Perfect!
32:27Will grinned.
32:27That's exactly where I want him.
32:30He reached the medical bay's rear entrance just as Pyrax burst through,
32:34the massive Salarian commander resplendent in his ceremonial battle armor.
32:38Stand aside, human!
32:40Pyrax growled.
32:41This is beyond you.
32:43Actually, Will drawled, I think this is exactly where I'm supposed to be.
32:47Want to know why?
32:49Your primitive attempts at...
32:51Because...
32:52Will continued, noting how the crystal's pulse had synchronized with the ship's power fluctuations.
32:57My kid's about to make one hell of an entrance.
33:00The medical bay doors burst open in a flash of blinding light.
33:04Energy cascaded through the corridor like liquid starfire.
33:08And in its wake, reality seemed to bend.
33:11Will felt it first through his link with Aurelia, a new consciousness, powerful and pristine, combining the best of both species.
33:18The crystal shattered, its energy merging with the phenomenon.
33:22When the light faded, Pyrax stood frozen, his armor systems completely dead.
33:28Behind Will cradled in Aurelia's arms, their child glowed with an inner light that put the stars to shame.
33:33Well, Will said into the stunned silence, that's definitely got my hair.
33:38The baby, a perfect blend of human and solarian features, opened eyes that shifted between deep blue and molten gold.
33:46Every electronic device in the ship responded to its mere presence, systems upgrading and evolving in real time.
33:52Impossible, Pyrax whispered.
33:54You keep using that word, Aurelia said, her voice tired but triumphant.
33:59I don't think it means what you think it means.
34:03The ship's communications suddenly activated, broadcasting across all frequencies without any input from the crew.
34:10Images of the child appeared on every screen, its hybrid nature impossible to deny or ignore.
34:15The next step, Will realized, not just for our species, but for everything, Aurelia nodded.
34:22Evolution demands change, Pyrax. You can either adapt or become extinct.
34:27The fallen commander looked between the child, its parents, and his own powerless armor.
34:31Finally, he dropped to one knee.
34:33My queen, he said, voice rough with emotion.
34:37I, I was wrong.
34:39Yes, she agreed.
34:41You were.
34:43But perhaps that's the point.
34:44We were all wrong, thinking our species had reached their peak separately.
34:50It took human audacity and Salarian pride to show us a better way.
34:54Will moved to her side, marveling at their child's perfect features.
34:58So, about those titles we were discussing earlier.
35:02Don't push your luck, commander.
35:04Yes, your majesty, he grinned.
35:06Though I think we're a bit beyond formal titles now.
35:09The baby made a sound that might have been a laugh, and every light in the ship pulsed in response.
35:14You know, and Will added, we still need to name the little reality warper.
35:19Aurelia's expression softened as she looked at their child.
35:22In Salarian tradition, children of greatness are named for the moment of their birth.
35:26Yeah, and what would you call this moment?
35:29She smiled.
35:30The beginning.
35:31Three months after the birth of their child, Will found himself adjusting his formal diplomatic attire in the mirror of their private chambers aboard the Imperial Dawn.
35:41The suit, specially designed to complement Salarian aesthetic while maintaining human military dignity, still felt strange compared to his combat armor.
35:49Having trouble with the ceremonial collar, my love?
35:54Aurelia's amused voice came from behind him.
35:56She stood in the doorway, resplendent in her royal regalia, their child cradled in one arm.
36:01You try fastening these clasps when they're designed for eight-foot-tall aliens, he grumbled good-naturedly.
36:07She glided forward, expertly adjusting his collar with her free hand.
36:11Such complaints from the man who had no trouble figuring out other aspects of Salarian anatomy.
36:17Ha, that was different.
36:18He grinned up at her.
36:19I was highly motivated.
36:22Their child, officially named Aurora Dawn but nicknamed Rory by the human crew, giggled and every electronic device in the room flickered in response.
36:31At three months old, she already showed the best traits of both species.
36:35Aurelia's striking orange skin and flowing hair combined with Will's blue eyes and determined chin.
36:41Her height was advancing faster than a human child's, but not quite at Salarian rates.
36:46The diplomatic summit starts in an hour, Aurelia reminded him.
36:50Are you ready to scandalize the conservative factions again?
36:53Me?
36:54You're the one who told the Salarian High Council that human males are surprisingly adaptable.
36:59He waggled his eyebrows.
37:01While looking directly at your former suitors.
37:04She laughed, the sound still sending shivers down his spine.
37:07I was merely stating facts.
37:09Besides, the number of human-Solarian coupling requests has tripled since then.
37:14Yeah, about that.
37:16Will took Rory from her arms, marveling at how their daughter immediately began interfacing with his suit systems.
37:22Did you really have to tell the entire Imperial court about my impressive stamina?
37:26Would you prefer I lied?
37:29She bent down to kiss him, making the height difference particularly obvious.
37:33Besides, it's important for our people to understand the benefits of genetic diversity.
37:38A diplomatic aide's voice came through the intercom, carefully avoiding interrupting in person.
37:43They learned that lesson after walking in on one too many diplomatic discussions between the royal couple.
37:49My queen, my lord, the delegates are arriving.
37:53Time to face the music.
37:55Will handed Rory back to Aurelia.
37:57Ready to show the galaxy what the future looks like?
38:00With you?
38:01Always.
38:02The grand diplomatic chamber of the Imperial Dawn had been modified to accommodate both human and Salarian delegations.
38:08The sight of the mixed crew working seamlessly together still drew amazed stares from newcomers.
38:15As they entered, Will noticed several things at once.
38:18The appreciative glances from both human and Salarian women.
38:22The barely concealed envy from various male dignitaries.
38:25And the way Pyrax, now their strongest supporter, stood proudly at attention.
38:31Representatives of Earth in the Salarian Empire, Aurelia's voice carried effortlessly through the chamber.
38:36We gather today to formalize the alliance between our peoples.
38:41An alliance built on more than just politics, Will added, with a smirk that made several Salarian elders shift uncomfortably.
38:48Indeed, Aurelia's golden eyes sparkled with mischief.
38:52As I'm sure many of you have heard, the compatibility between our species has proven remarkable.
38:58A ripple of charged murmurs went through the crowd.
39:00In the three months since Rory's birth, dozens of human-Salarian relationships had blossomed, each producing uniquely gifted offspring.
39:09The conservative factions couldn't deny the benefits.
39:12Enhanced technological interface abilities, accelerated development, and unprecedented genetic stability.
39:18The old jokes about human males being too small or officially retired, one particularly bold Salarian noble announced.
39:25Drawing knowing laughs from the crowd, Will raised an eyebrow at Aurelia.
39:29Should I be concerned about how many of your people can personally verify that?
39:34Jealous, my love?
39:35Of them?
39:36Never.
39:37His grin turned wicked.
39:39They're not the ones who made the Queen of the Salarian Empire scream my name in three different languages.
39:45The chamber erupted in gasps, laughs, and more than a few interested murmurs.
39:50Rory chose that moment to demonstrate her powers by creating a holographic display of her parents' first meeting,
39:56thankfully editing out the more private moments.
39:59As you can see, Aurelia recovered smoothly, our daughter has her father's talent for dramatic timing.
40:05The diplomatic discussions that followed were unlike any in galactic history.
40:10Traditional boundaries of propriety were repeatedly shattered as both species embraced their new reality.
40:15The sight of their hybrid child casually manipulating advanced technology while alternating between human lullabies and Salarian war chants became a powerful symbol of their unified future.
40:25You know, Will whispered to Aurelia during a brief recess, when I crashed on your planet, I didn't expect to end up changing the course of two civilizations.
40:36No!
40:37No!
40:37She traced a finger down his chest, making his formal attire suddenly feel too warm.
40:43What did you expect?
40:45Honestly, I was just hoping to survive the winter.
40:48And instead, you survived me.
40:51Her smile turned predatory.
40:53Though the night is still young.
40:55My bold human.
40:57Pyrax chose that moment to approach with several urgent documents requiring their attention.
41:02He stopped short at their intimate pose.
41:05My queen.
41:06My lord.
41:07Perhaps I should return later?
41:10Nonsense.
41:11Aurelia straightened to her full height, though her hand remained possessively on Will's shoulder.
41:16We were just discussing human-Salarian relations.
41:19Very thoroughly, Will added helpfully, Pyrax's expression suggested he deeply regretted his past opposition to their union, if only because he now had to regularly witness their shameless flirtation.
41:33The genetic council has submitted their latest findings, he reported, steadfastly professional.
41:38It seems the success rate of human-Salarian pairings increases with emotional compatibility.
41:45Is that the scientific term for it? Will asked innocently.
41:50I believe the human phrase is sexual chemistry, Aurelia supplied, making Pyrax visibly struggle to maintain his composure.
41:58Rory burbled happily in her mother's arms, creating a small light show that drew everyone's attention.
42:04The child's powers grew daily, along with her personality, a perfect blend of human adaptability and Salarian pride.
42:11To think, Aurelia mused, all of this because you crashed on my planet.
42:17Best crash landing ever.
42:19Will wrapped an arm around her waist, or as high as he could reach.
42:23Though I still say you were checking me out before you decided to take me prisoner.
42:28I was assessing a potential threat.
42:31Is that what they are calling it now?
42:33Their playful banter was interrupted by the arrival of more diplomats, eager to discuss the possibility of expanding human-Salarian relations to their own systems.
42:43The future stretched before them, bright with possibility, enspiced with the kind of chemistry that had already changed the galaxy once.
42:51And in the midst of it all, their daughter continued to grow.
42:54A living testament to what could happen when someone dared to laugh at impossible things.
42:58A living testament to what could happen when someone dared to laugh at impossible things.
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