“War was declared upon Earth by the Gern Empire ten days ago. Two Gern cruisers have attacked us and their blasters have destroyed the stern and bow of the ship. We are without a drive and without power but for a few emergency batteries. I am the Constellation ’s only surviving officer and the Gern commander is boarding us to give me the surrender terms.

“None of you will leave your compartments until ordered to do so. Wherever you may be, remain there. This is necessary to avoid confusion and to have as many as possible in known locations for future instructions. I repeat: you will not leave your compartments.”

The speaker cut off. She stood without moving and heard again the words: I am the Constellation ’s only surviving officer.⁠ ⁠…

The Gerns had killed her father.