Rage builds in my chest—not just my own, but reflected through our connection to every crew member within psychic range. The enhanced empathy works both ways; they undergo my emotions as clearly as I experience theirs.
“Ambassador,” I say, my voice carrying the particular chill reserved for people who’ve crossed lines they shouldn’t. “You’re talking about my crew. My people. Choose your words carefully.”
“I’m stating biological facts. Your genetics have been permanently altered. Your cognitive patterns no longer match baseline human norms. Within months, you’ll be as alien to your own species as we are.” His smile is as cold as absolute zero. “Tell me, Captain—how do you think Earth will react when they learn what you’ve become?”
The question hits like a phaser blast to the chest. Through our bond, I experience Zylthar’s answering spike of fear—not for himself, but for me. We’ve been so focused on the immediate crisis that neither of us has considered the long-term political implications.
Earth politics,he thinks grimly.Your government will see us as a contamination vector, a threat to human genetic purity.
Let them try.
But even as I project confidence through our link, doubt creeps in. Humanity has a long history of fearing genetic modification, of viewing hybrid populations as threats to species identity. What we’ve created on Halcyon—a successfully integrated human-alien community—will either be seen as miraculous or monstrous.
“Earth’s reaction will depend on how the situation is presented,” I say carefully.
“Indeed. Which is why I wanted to offer you one final opportunity.” Jorem leans forward, his expression shifting to something that might be sympathy if it weren’t so obviously calculated. “Submit to voluntary neural purging. Return your crew to baseline human genetics. Accept exile to a remote colony world where your... condition... won’t threaten others.”
“In exchange for?”
“My report to the council will emphasize the crisis situation, the heroic sacrifice required to save lives. Your actions will be viewed as unfortunate but understandable.” His voice takes on the cadence of practiced negotiation. “Refuse, and I’ll be forced to describe the situation as willing contamination, deliberate violation of species integrity laws, an act of biological terrorism against both our peoples.”
The bridge falls silent except for the hum of life support systems. Through our enhanced connection, I sense my crew’s emotions—anger, fear, determination, and underneath it all, absolute loyalty to whatever decision I make.
Selena,Zylthar’s mental voice carries quiet pain.He’s not entirely wrong. Our joining did trigger genetic changes we didn’t anticipate. Maybe we should consider?—
No.The word cuts through our bond like a blade.We saved lives. We prevented a dimensional catastrophe. We created something beautiful and unprecedented. I’m not going to apologize for that.
But if your government declares us enemies of humanity?—
Then we’ll face that when it happens. Together.
I stand, the weight of command settling around my shoulders like armor. “Ambassador Jorem, you can report whatever you want to whoever you want. But my crew and I aren’t submitting to neural purging, genetic modification, or exile.”
“Then you’ve chosen to become enemies of both our species.”
“I’ve chosen to become something new.” I step closer to the screen, letting him see the certainty in my eyes. “And if our peoples are too frightened to accept evolution when it’s offered freely, that’s their loss.”
Jorem’s expression shifts to something that might be admiration if it weren’t mixed with such obvious disgust. “Captain MacGray, you’re either the bravest person I’ve ever met or the most foolish.”
“Probably both.”
“Indeed.” He pauses, and for a moment, his formal mask slips to reveal something almost human underneath. “For what it’s worth, I hope you survive what’s coming. But I won’t be able to protect you from the consequences of your choices.”
“I never asked you to.”
The transmission cuts off, leaving the bridge in thoughtful silence. Through our bond, I sense Zylthar’s complex mix ofemotions—love for me, fear for our future, grief for the bridges we’ve burned.
Any regrets?I ask through our link.
None,he replies immediately.Whatever happens, we’ll face it together.
“Captain,” Blaine says quietly. “Orders?”
I look around the bridge at faces that trust me despite uncertainty about the future. Enhanced humans who’ve chosen to follow their transformed commander into unknown territory. Through our psychic connection, I sense their resolve—they’re afraid, but they’re not backing down.
“We continue our mission,” I say. “Deep space exploration, scientific research, diplomatic contact with alien species. The fact that we’re now uniquely qualified for interspecies cooperation just makes us better at the job.”
“And when Earth sends investigators?”
