Warfare: Rise Of Mankind Book 2 Read Online Free PDF Page A

head.
                  “Well…” Clea cleared her throat. “I am wondering how you became an Anthar so quickly.”
                  Kales expression melted into one of seriousness, he looked away. “Battlefield promotion for the Anthar part…but Sun-Anthar, I earned properly. War has a way of elevating positions quickly. We have chances to shine we might not otherwise experience during peace time. As a result, I’ve proven myself many times, up to and including this assignment.”
                  “It seems like a waste of talent then,” Clea replied, “to send you and Mei’Gora here? Why not put you back on the lines?”
                  “I think our crew deserved a break,” Kale said. “They went through plenty in our last engagement. Plus, I got the opportunity to be the official Anthar of my ship. A simple task felt like just the thing to get acclimated with the crew.”
                  “Do you want to talk about the fight that got you promoted?”
                  Kale considered the question and shook his head. “Another time, perhaps. Over a drink.”
                  “Fair enough.” Others poured into the room around them and Clea shook his hand again. “It was very nice to meet you, Kale. I look forward to a more extensive conversation later.”
                  “To you as well, Vinthari.”
                  Gray approached from behind. “Who was that?”
                  “The Anthar of one of the two ships,” Clea explained. “Very young for the job but seemingly quite capable.”
                  “Yeah? I’m not great at guessing age with you folks but I agree, he sure seems youthful to be a captain.”
                  “They can’t all be old men like you,” Clea teased.
                  “Hey, stow that old thing. I’m in my prime.” Gray escorted her to their seats. “So here we go. Time to find out what all the fuss is about.”
                  “And hope we’re all here to end it.” Clea took a deep breath and directed her attention to the council. Anthar Mei’Gora and Kale stepped up to a podium at the center of the room. The older of the two had jet black hair and striking purple eyes. His lean body filled out his dress uniform well, proving he remained in fantastic shape.
                  The council entered shortly after, taking up their positions in the crescent moon of their table. They weren’t big on ceremony thankfully and sat quickly before the Chief of Military Operations, Daniel Burke, addressed those present. He was in his sixties with gray hair and a hard face won from years of military service. Clea only met him once before and thought him wise if a bit cynical.
                  “Greetings,” Daniel spoke with a voice far more robust and powerful than his aged visage would lead one to believe. His command authority remained firmly in place. “We have come together in this emergency meeting to address the arrival of the alliance representatives. It is our hope you have come to engage in a free exchange of ideas. Our information for yours.”
                  Anthar Mei’Gora replied, “Thank you, Chief Burke. We appreciate you allowing us this audience on such short notice. We received Vinthari An’Tufal’s message concerning your discovery of a weapon to be used against the enemy. We also understand it has seen a successful test. We wish to learn more about this and discuss what can be done for the refugees from the Xan-Wei star system.”
                  “The people of the Tam’Dral are currently residing in their own vessel,” Daniel said. “They’ve been medically checked but we’re taking extra precautions so we don’t exchange any diseases either side cannot face. As far as Protocol Seven, we will freely grant you access to the