NOVEL NEXT Chapter 43: Prosperity
2 Weeks Later
Dawn on Lothal brought with it a sight that few inhabitants could have imagined just a few months ago. Where once there had been ruins and desolation, towers of steel and glass now rose, reflecting the first rays of the sun as a symbol of renewed hope. The reconstruction of the capital was progressing at a dizzying pace, thanks to the unconditional support of the UNSC and the collective effort of Mandalorians, local inhabitants, and newly arrived colonists.
On the main streets, automated construction vehicles worked tirelessly, paving roads, erecting buildings, and transporting supplies. To one side of the central plaza, a group of Mandalorian children watched in amazement as a humanoid-looking UNSC droid carried huge blocks of metal with superhuman ease.
"Is that going to protect us, too?" one of the children asked his mother, pointing at the droid.
"Yes," the woman replied, with a mixture of pride and melancholy. "But what will truly protect us is what we are building here together."
In the heart of the capital, Satine Kryze walked the streets in the company of a group of local leaders and UNSC officers. At her side, engineer Sarah Quinn took notes on a datapad while answering questions about the new agricultural technologies implemented in the region.
"Automated farms are already producing 40% more food than initially projected," Quinn explained as she adjusted her glasses. "Thanks to monitoring drones and automated irrigation systems, we can maintain a constant supply even in adverse conditions."
"This is more than we had dreamed of," a local leader commented, his eyes shining with hope. "Before we could barely feed our families. Now it looks like we might be able to export food in the future."
Satine smiled, though her gaze showed the seriousness with which she approached each step of the reconstruction. "The UNSC has kept its word, but let us not forget that this is only possible because of our willingness to work together. Lothal will not just be a place to survive. It will be a home, an example of what we can achieve when we put our differences behind us."
On the outskirts of the city, UNSC factories rose like metallic colossi, filling the air with the constant sound of production. Some were dedicated to the manufacture of agricultural machinery, while others produced weaponry, vehicles, and advanced technological components. The supervision of UNSC AIs ensured unprecedented efficiency, while early prototype droids worked tirelessly on the assembly lines.
In one of the factories, Admiral Arnet walked alongside Serina and a group of high command officers, inspecting the facilities. The droids, with robust bodies and surprisingly fluid movements, assembled ground vehicles while carrying heavy parts with millimeter precision.
"The first 5,000 droids have been approved for production duties," Serina reported, projecting a hologram with detailed statistics. "Additionally, another 5,000 have been approved for military operations. While not as lethal as a Spartan, their adaptability, endurance, and tactical analysis capabilities make them an indispensable asset to our operations."
Admiral Arnet nodded as he watched one of the droids assemble a cannon with an efficiency no human could match. "If these can build what we need in a week, they're worth every credit invested. But let's not let our guard down. I want testing to continue and any failures reported immediately."
One of the officers, an infantry commander, chimed in with a pragmatic tone. "How reliable will they be in real combat? Data is one thing, but battle is unpredictable."
"That's why we've designed advanced simulations to test their limits," Serina replied, a glint of confidence in her tone. "They've already faced drills recreating Covenant tactics and those of other known threats. So far, the results have been more than satisfactory."
"It's a start," Arnet said, as he looked out toward the horizon where the city's towers rose. "Lothal will not just be a fortress. It will be an example of what we can build when we leave bureaucracy and divisions behind. There are no politicians here to interfere, only people working for a common goal."
Meanwhile, at the spaceports, the arrival of colonists showed no signs of stopping. Entire families, traders, and refugees alike descended from the transports, expressions of hope mixed with the uncertainty of starting over on an unfamiliar world. The UNSC Marines greeted them with courtesy and efficiency, assigning them temporary housing and basic resources while the settlements grew.
In one of the hangars, Satine was speaking to a family who had just arrived from an outlying system.
"Will we really be safe here?" the father asked, holding a small child while his wife organized their belongings.
"As safe as anywhere in this galaxy," Satine answered truthfully. "But you won't be alone here. This is a place where we all work together to protect and prosper. Welcome to Lothal."
As refugees continued to arrive, a group of young Mandalorians joined the military training organized by the UNSC. These new recruits, though inexperienced, displayed a fervor and determination that impressed even the most veteran officers.
"They're ready to train as Marines," a Spartan instructor commented as he watched the young Mandalorians on the training track. "Given time, they'll be a formidable force."
"We're seeing something unique here," an officer commented to Admiral Arnet. "We're not just building a city or an army. We're building a community that believes in something bigger."
Arnet, arms crossed, surveyed the scene with a slight smile. "That's what the Republic never understood. It's not about power, it's about purpose. Lothal has one, and that makes it indestructible."
Lothal's prosperity wasn't just a matter of resources or technology. It was the result of the determination of a people who had suffered too much and were now willing to fight for a better future. Under the protection of the UNSC and the guidance of leaders like Satine and Arnet, the planet was transforming into a symbol of resistance and hope.
-x.X.x-
1 Week Later
Lothal's orbit was a hive of activity. In the vast emptiness, UNSC orbital defense stations were beginning to take shape, a towering testament to the commitment of humanity and its allies to protect what they had built. The platforms were equipped with the latest in military technology: high-powered MAC cannons and Archer missile systems that could repel massive attacks from even the largest Covenant fleets. Each station was designed with strategic redundancies, ensuring that even if one was destroyed, the others could hold the line of defense.
In the command room of one of the newly operational stations, a UNSC technical officer was giving a detailed report to a group of senior officers led by Admiral Arnet. In the center of the room, a three-dimensional hologram displayed the stations' layout and their fire capabilities.
"We currently have three functional platforms, Admiral," Lieutenant Huxley explained, pointing to the stations on the hologram. "Each is armed with two medium-caliber MAC cannons, supplemented by Archer systems for long-range combat. Additionally, we have integrated Shiva missile launchers as a deterrent against larger-scale threats."
Arnet watched the hologram intently, nodding slowly. "Estimated time to complete the next two stations?"
"Three weeks, tops," Huxley replied confidently. "Installation of the power and weapons systems is already underway. All that remains is final calibration and crew assignment."
"What about integration with Serina?" Arnet asked, turning to the AI, which was projected onto a nearby pedestal.
"I am already fully integrated into the current platforms," Serina replied in her signature tone of cool precision. "My systems allow for coordinating the stations' fire with 98.7% accuracy, optimizing their ability to repel simultaneous threats on multiple vectors. Additionally, I have designed protocols for autonomous handling of the stations in the event of loss of communication with main command."
"That's what I wanted to hear," Arnet said, folding his arms as he assessed the room. "We can't afford failures. These stations will be our first line of defense, and I want them to be unbreakable."
Meanwhile, in the refurbished shipyard, activity was just as intense. Paris-class frigates were rolling off assembly lines with an efficiency that defied initial expectations. Engineers, working around the clock, had optimized the original design to fit current UNSC needs, incorporating local technological improvements and eliminating redundancies that slowed production.
In the shipyard's main hangar, the sound of tools and machinery filled the air as a technical team finished the final details of a new frigate. On an elevated catwalk, Admiral Arnet surveyed progress alongside Sarah Quinn, the project's chief engineer.
"Admiral, I'm pleased to report that we've exceeded our initial goals," Quinn said, adjusting a datapad displaying production statistics. "We are currently producing one Paris-class frigate every ten days. In addition, we have reduced repair times for damaged ships by 30%, allowing us to keep more assets operational in less time."
"Excellent work, Engineer," Arnet replied, watching as a team of drones adjusted the external panels of the new ship. "What about the severely damaged ships? Can we salvage them?"
"So far we have fully restored two Marathon-class cruisers and one Halcyon-class frigate," Quinn reported. "Both are ready to be redeployed. With the systems we are developing, even the most compromised ships will be able to be salvaged, provided the main hull is intact."
As they spoke, an engineer quickly approached, saluting with a formal nod. "Admiral, Engineer Quinn, we have completed initial testing on the additional assembly bays. We can begin working on new designs if you so order."
Arnet looked at Quinn, who nodded enthusiastically. "I think we're ready for the next step, sir. If we approve the initial plans, we could begin building ships with capabilities that specifically fit our current needs. For example, light destroyers for quick maneuvers or heavily armed transports for long-range missions."
"Go ahead with the plans," Arnet ordered. "But don't neglect current production. Every ship we put into service is a statement that the UNSC will not be stopped."
-x.X.x-
1 Week Later
Back on the surface of Lothal, construction of the UNSC's main base was proceeding at a frantic pace. Located in a strategic position on the outskirts of the capital, the base stood like an imposing fortress surrounded by automated turrets and ground defense lines. Inside, command centers and training facilities were designed to handle large-scale operations.
In the core of the base, Arnet paced the main command room alongside a group of officers. Screens displayed in real time the movements of fleets, the progress of orbital stations, and production activities in factories and the shipyard.
"Sir," a commander began, pointing to one of the screens. "The base is fully operational. We have the capacity to house up to 10,000 troops and simultaneously manage ground and space operations. In addition, recent drills have shown that our defenses can repel coordinated attacks with a 94% success rate."
Arnet nodded, satisfied. "Make sure every soldier understands that this base is not just a place to coordinate our operations. It is a symbol of what we are building here on Lothal. The Republic may have abandoned us, but we will abandon no one."
As the officers continued to discuss future strategies, Serina appeared in the center of the room as a hologram.
"Admiral, a preliminary report on our orbital stations indicates that they could handle large-scale attacks from up to two Covenant fleets simultaneously," the AI reported. "However, I suggest beginning development of backup systems to ensure redundancy in the event of sabotage or interference."
"Prioritize it," Arnet ordered. "We will leave nothing to chance. Lothal is our stronghold, and anyone who tries to take it from us will learn the hard way what it means to stand up to the UNSC."
With every decision, Lothal grew stronger. The orbital stations, the shipyard, and the main UNSC base were not just infrastructure; They were the physical manifestation of an unrelenting resistance, a message to the entire galaxy that even in the darkest of times, humanity would not surrender.
-x.X.x-
The Galactic Senate was in chaos. Floating platforms spun frantically as senators tried to make themselves heard above the tumult. Voices echoed throughout the vast chamber, accusations and reproaches flying back and forth. In the center, Chancellor Palpatine stood tall at his podium, calmly watching as the Republic, his most prized creation, staggered under the weight of its own ineptitude.
"The UNSC is not an ally, it is an invader!" Tullus Darveth roared from his platform, pointing toward the central podium. "They have manipulated the most desperate systems with false promises, and now they are building an empire on Lothal. This is a direct threat to the sovereignty of the Republic!"
From another platform, Orn Free Taa, the Senator of Ryloth, rose his imposing figure. His voice was deep and filled with frustration. "A threat, Senator Darveth? My people have been begging for help as our cities are razed by the Covenant. The Senate has sent words, but no ships. Promises, but no solutions. What are we supposed to do?"
Darveth turned to Orn Free Taa, his face filled with disbelief and fury. "Now you defend the UNSC? You yourself called them an imperialist force just a cycle ago. What has changed your mind?"
The Twi'lek waved a hand dismissively. "I'm not defending the UNSC. I'm condemning our incompetence. If we had responded in time, if we had protected Ryloth as promised, we wouldn't be having this conversation. But, Senator Darveth, what do you expect my people to do? Die with dignity while we wait for help that never comes?"
"That's what they want you to believe!" Darveth retorted, pointing an accusatory finger at him. "The UNSC isn't here to save you. They're consolidating their power. Every system that allies with them gives them more strength to threaten the Republic."
"And what has the Republic done for us?" Orn Free Taa roared, slamming his platform hard. "The UNSC may have its own agenda, but at least they're acting. Unlike this Senate, which only knows how to debate while worlds burn."
Chancellor Palpatine held up a hand, imposing silence. His tone was calm, but his gaze was piercing, projecting an authority that few dared challenge.
"Senators," he began, his voice ringing with serenity, "I understand your frustrations. The war against the Covenant has put us all in a difficult position, and our responses have not always been sufficient. However, we must be careful. The UNSC has proven to be a formidable force, but it does not operate under our laws or principles. If we allow them to continue to grow unchecked, we will put everything we have built at risk."
"And what do you propose, Chancellor?" Orn Free Taa asked, crossing his arms. "That we continue to wait while more systems fall? Or that we sanction planets that are trying to protect themselves?"
Palpatine looked at him calmly, not losing his conciliatory tone. "Ryloth is a symbol of what we must improve. We cannot sanction systems that seek to survive, but we cannot allow the UNSC to become a parallel power that challenges our authority. We need a balanced solution."
-x.X.x-
Despite the Chancellor's words, discontent continued to grow. Privately, Orn Free Taa met with other Outer Rim senators in a secluded Senate room. Among them were representatives from Sullust, Rodia, and Felucia, who shared similar concerns.
"Ryloth does not want to leave the Republic," Orn Free Taa began, his voice gravelly and heavy with regret. "But my people cannot wait any longer. The UNSC may not be ideal, but at least they are offering something tangible. If the Republic does not act soon, we will have no other choice."
The Sullust senator nodded. "My system is facing the same reality. We have received informal overtures from the UNSC. So far, we have rejected them, but if things do not change, we will no longer be able to remain loyal to Coruscant."
The Rodian representative added with a sigh. "The truth is that the Republic is collapsing. We cannot blame our systems for seeking alternatives."
"Then let that be clear," Orn Free Taa said, looking at his colleagues. "We do not want to abandon the Republic. But if they do not act soon, the UNSC will be our only option."
-x.X.x-
Meanwhile, at the Jedi Temple, the Council was meeting to discuss the growing influence of the UNSC and the political disintegration of the Senate.
"The Senate is losing control," Mace Windu said, crossing his arms. "Systems like Ryloth are reconsidering their loyalties, and the UNSC is ready to take advantage of this opportunity."
"The UNSC is not interested in collaborating," Ki-Adi-Mundi added. "They are consolidating their position on Lothal, building a military base that has no diplomatic intentions. Every system that joins them weakens our ability to confront the Covenant."
Yoda sat in his chair, musing silently. Finally he spoke in a grave tone. "The situation is difficult. Diplomacy we must try. But we must be prepared, should conflict become inevitable."
"Perhaps we should act as mediators between the Republic and the UNSC," Obi-Wan Kenobi suggested. "If we can open a dialogue, we might be able to prevent more systems from defecting."
"Mediation will only work if both sides are willing," Windu replied. "And the UNSC does not seem interested in sharing power."
-x.X.x-
Back in the Senate, the situation reached a critical point when the representative of Sullust officially announced that his system would begin negotiations with the UNSC. "We cannot wait any longer," he declared in a defiant voice. "The Republic has failed us, and we will not allow our people to be annihilated by the incompetence of this Senate."
The room erupted in shouting. Some senators demanded immediate sanctions, while others openly supported Sullust's decision. Orn Free Taa watched from his platform, his face reflecting the inner storm he felt.
Palpatine raised both hands, forcing silence. "Senators, the Republic faces a crossroads. But I assure you this: we will not allow any outside force to threaten our unity. The Republic will prevail, with or without those who choose to abandon it."
-x.X.x-
On Lothal, Admiral Arnet took the news calmly, observing the progress on the orbital defense stations. "They are destroying themselves," he told his officers. "All we need to do is keep building. The Republic will fall, and we will be ready for whatever comes."
The Republic, once a symbol of stability and unity, teetered on the edge of collapse, while the UNSC quietly strengthened itself, preparing to take its place.
-x.X.x-
In the Infinity's command room, the atmosphere was one of constant movement. Officers worked in silence, but tension was in the air. Serina, the ship's artificial intelligence, projected a holographic galactic map of the Covenant's latest movements. The patterns were clear, and her tone reflected the urgency of the situation.
"Admiral," Serina said, turning to Arnet, "Covenant movements are converging on Kashyyyk. The number of ships and their formation suggest a large-scale operation. This is not a simple raiding attack."
Arnet watched the hologram carefully. Kashyyyk, home of the Wookiees, was a strategic system, but there were no recent signs that the Covenant had any obvious reason to attack it. The fact that they were mobilizing so many forces was disconcerting.
"What kind of deployment are we looking at?" he asked, crossing his arms.
"At least 20 CCS-class cruisers, 10 destroyers, and multiple troop transports," Serina replied. "The data also shows additional patrols on the perimeter, possibly to prevent any outside interference. If they land, Kashyyyk doesn't stand a chance."
"And the Republic?" Arnet asked dismissively. "Have they shown any interest in defending the system?"
"Their forces remain concentrated in the Core," Serina replied, with a hint of sarcasm. "There is no sign of mobilization toward Kashyyyk. If we wait for them to intervene, the planet is lost."
Commander Prestone Cole, who was in the room, interjected. "We don't know why the Covenant is attacking this planet, but we can't stand by and do nothing. If Kashyyyk falls, we lose not only the Wookiees as potential allies, but the morale of other systems in the Mid Rim as well."
Arnet nodded, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. "We can't ignore this. But we can't risk our entire force on Lothal. If the Covenant uses this as a distraction, they could attack our position here."
Arnet turned to Cole. "Prestone, you will lead this operation. The Infinity will remain on Lothal as our command center and to ensure the security of the system. You will take half of our fleet, including the new UNSC battle droid models. This will be a test of both them and our ability to respond."
"Understood, Admiral," Cole replied firmly. "Which ships will be under my command?"
"Serina," Arnet ordered, "project assigned forces."
The hologram changed to show a list of ships:
-UNSC Resolute: One Phoenix-class cruiser that will serve as flagship.
-Two Marathon-class cruisers: Specialized in long-range operations and heavy support.
-Seven Paris-class frigates: Perfect for escort and support.
-Multiple squadrons of Broadswords and Longswords: For air operations and reconnaissance.
-A contingent of the UNSC's new droids: A deployment of 5,000 units with combat and support capabilities, ready for their first test in a real-world setting.
"It's a significant force, but not enough to compromise Lothal's security," Serina explained. "The droids can provide a tactical advantage on the ground and allow us to reserve the Spartans for critical operations."
"How much time do we need to prepare?" Cole asked.
"The ships will be ready to depart in three hours," Serina replied. "The droids are already being loaded along with the supplies needed to support the Wookiee forces."
-x.X.x-
In Lothal's orbital port, the Resolute glowed as crews worked to load ammunition, supplies, and the new battle droids. The droids moved forward in organized rows, boarding the Pelicans that would transport them to the surface of Kashyyyk in the event of a confrontation.
Commander Renault, in charge of logistics, approached Cole. "All systems are operational. The new droids have passed preliminary testing, but this will be their first real mission. The engineers are optimistic, but also cautious."
"It's a calculated risk," Cole replied as he looked at the droids. They were tall, with a reinforced humanoid design. Their movements were fluid, and their advanced systems made them more independent than typical droids from other forces. "If they perform as expected, they will be a decisive force."
Meanwhile, the pilots of the Broadswords and Longswords were preparing for deployment. Each ship was meticulously checked, and the pilots went over their orders in tactical simulators.
In the Resolute's command room, Serina projected an updated map. "Covenant forces are less than 24 hours from Kashyyyk. If we leave now, we'll arrive just in time to intercept them before they begin to deploy."
Cole nodded. "Then let's not waste any time. Prepare to leave."
End of Chapter 43.