The Phoenix Conspiracy

  ***

  A young soldier with the name Erdene stitched to his lapel marched into the major’s office. “Report from ODA, sir.” He saluted, then stood perfectly still, resolute, and attentive.

  Summers was glad to see the discipline.

  “Go ahead, Private,” said the major, still sitting.

  “Unit One of Operational Detachment Alpha was unable to reach engineering because the defense walls are in place. Unit Two reports the same about the bridge. And elevator two is disabled.”

  Dammit, Calvin. Must you make everything so difficult? Despite her annoyance, Summers kept silent since the major had command with regard to security matters.

  “Thank you, Private. Dismissed.” The major waved him off.

  The young man saluted and left. Once the door closed, Summers returned to her seat.

  “I had hoped it wouldn’t come to this,” said the major.

  “But we can get past those defenses, can’t we?” Summers asked. “I mean, your men are trained to breach defenses like that in order to capture hostile ships, right?”

  “Yes, there are breaching protocols. However, our equipment and training are more suited to smaller ships with less advanced defenses. ODB will lead our response.”

  “ODB?”

  “Operational Detachment Bravo. They are more specialized than ODA for this kind of maneuver.” He tapped his comm panel. “Jackson, tell ODA to lockdown all access points to both engineering and the bridge. Then tell ODB to prep for a code six response.”