Evander:
"Alpha, how long until we reach the planet?"
Alpha:
"At current warp efficiency: 17 minutes and 32 seconds. Estimated exit from slipstream into planetary orbit in 14 minutes."
Evander:
"Wait... we're almost there!?"
Alpha:
"Correct. At our current FTL compression rate, we are covering approximately 1,200 light-years per minute. Margin of error: negligible."
Evander:
(So we're cruising across galactic distances like it's a Sunday drive on the freeway. What even is this tech!?)
Alpha:
"Note: This region of the galaxy is not integrated with stabilized warp channels. Slight turbulence may occur upon exit."
Evander:
"...Turbulence?"
Alpha:
"Estimated gravitational shear: 8.3% above safety threshold. You may feel disoriented. Or vomit. Or both."
Evander:
"O-oh... Okay..."
Later – Village House
The room remains still—tense silence filling the air—until a sudden shout erupts from outside, followed by the sound of chaotic footsteps.
Elf Villager:
"VILLAGE ELDER!"
He bursts into the house, panic in his eyes.
Elf Villager:
"VILLAGE ELDER! COME QUICKLY—YOU MUST SEE THIS!"
Everyone rushes outside, leaving the now-disabled trooper behind. The elf points to the sky.
Above, the two familiar moons glow softly... until a massive third sphere begins to rise behind them. It's not a moon. It's far too large. A colossal structure, orbited by countless silver, boat-shaped crafts.
Veyandrel:
"Wha—what is that!?"
Elf Villager 1:
"What's happening!?"
Elf Villager 2:
"Is that... a god!?"
Meanwhile, aboard the main mothership
Evander:
"Oooh... It actually kind of looks like Earth..."
Alpha:
"This planet is approximately 1.7% larger than Earth. Surface gravity is 1.02 times stronger than standard."
Evander:
"...And that means?"
Alpha:
"Negligible impact. Slightly more physical effort required. You may feel approximately 2% heavier."
Evander:
"So... like carrying a backpack with a brick in it?"
Alpha:
"Precisely. However, if you are emotionally fragile, the effect may feel worse."
Evander:
"...Gee. Thanks."
Alpha:
"Additional note: Atmospheric density is 3% higher than standard. Breathability remains within safe margins. Oxygen absorption will be slightly less efficient for non-native physiology."
Evander:
"So... I'll be fine?"
Alpha:
"Yes. Unless you run, fall, or hyperventilate."
Evander:
"...Right. Let's prep for landing."
Back at the village
Panic continues to ripple through the crowd. Eyes are locked skyward, awe-struck and terrified.
Veyandrel (to himself):
(Is this... Is this him? The sky person? I spent years praying for the gods to protect us... Is this a revelation?)
A shape grows in the sky — enormous, descending rapidly. It casts a shadow that swallows the entire village. Compared to the sheer size of the vessel, the village resembles a pebble next to a mountain.
With a deep mechanical hum —
PSSSSHHHT!
A vast door opens. A ramp slams into the earth. Out march colossal humanoid figures, flying lesser ships, drones, and ranks upon ranks of soldiers clad in advanced, gleaming armor. At the center of this massive force... stands Evander.
Evander (intense whisper):
"DO WE REALLY NEED THIS MANY GUARDS!?"
Alpha:
"As per your instruction, my Lord, this is the smallest escort unit available. This detachment does not even comprise 1% of our total armada. Imperial elites and heavy command units remain on standby.
In truth, we are... sitting ducks."
Evander:
"Alpha... WHO THE HELL WOULD DARE ATTACK AN ARMY LIKE THIS!? LOOK AT THEM! THEY HAVE BOWS AND STICKS! WE HAVE GIANT ROBOTS AND FLOATING DRONES! AND LET'S NOT FORGET THE PLANET-SIZED SHIP WE JUST DESCENDED FROM!"
Alpha:
"Master's blood pressure is spiking. Activating neuro-stabiliz—"
Evander:
"If you knock me out again, I swear I'll dismantle you bolt by bolt when I wake up."
Alpha:
"...Understood."
Evander (sighs):
"Haaa... Forget it! Let's just go."