After causing considerable damage to Zistreotov, Kirkland decided it was time to leave and make a triumphant return to the Republic’s capital planet, Future. The fleet assembled in stationary orbit above the still burning rubble of the planet’s capital city.
“Let’s go home,” said Kirkland as the fleet moved off.
However, they emerged from the portal directly into an asteroid storm. It scattered the fleet far and wide and they incurred much damage. Kirkland’s ship received damage but remained intact. Many other ships were not so lucky. The storm destroyed some and by the time it passed, many were missing, including Sgniwef’s ship.
Kirkland dispatched an officer in a scout ship to Future to report that the remains of the fleet would return soon.
“Are you sure your information was corre
