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Crocs Echo

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Crocs Echo
Rapid growth High volatility Seasonal (Jul) Forecasted decline Clothing & Fashion Company Product
Crocs Echo
What is Crocs Echo?

Crocs Echo is a line of footwear from Crocs that combines comfort, style, and functionality, featuring a lightweight design and enhanced cushioning for everyday wear.

Treendly Index Treendly Forecast Google YouTube Amazon
MOM: +117.39%
How much search volume does it get?
Google searches
14.8K/mo
Amazon searches
16.9K/mo

Is Crocs Echo trending?

Yes. Crocs Echo growing with a month-over-month change of 2.24% over the past 5 years, with approximately 14,800 monthly searches.

This is a seasonal trend that peaks every July. The seasonal demand is forecasted to decline over the next year.


Why is Crocs Echo trending?

1
Comfort and Support
Crocs Echo is designed with a focus on comfort, featuring a cushioned footbed and ergonomic design that provides support for all-day wear.
2
Versatile Style
The Crocs Echo line offers a variety of colors and styles, making them suitable for different occasions, from casual outings to more active environments.
3
Durability
Made from high-quality materials, Crocs Echo footwear is built to withstand daily wear and tear, making them a long-lasting choice for consumers.
4
Easy to Clean
Crocs Echo shoes are easy to clean and maintain, which appeals to consumers looking for low-maintenance footwear options.
5
Sustainability Initiatives
Crocs has been making strides in sustainability, using eco-friendly materials in their products, which resonates with environmentally conscious consumers.
6
Celebrity Endorsements and Collaborations
The popularity of Crocs Echo has been boosted by collaborations with celebrities and influencers, making them a trendy choice among younger demographics.

What are people saying?

33 threads
AI Insights Mixed sentiment
Discussions around 'Crocs Echo' focus on issues related to product quality, sizing difficulties, and customer service experiences, with some users expressing interest in the comfort and design of the shoes.
Quality Concerns
Many users report issues with the quality of Crocs Echo products, citing incidents of safety and injuries.
Sizing Issues
There are frequent complaints about the sizing being inconsistent, leading to difficulties in finding the right fit.
Customer Service Problems
Users express frustration with customer service, particularly regarding order fulfillment and returns.
Comfort and Design
Some discussions highlight the comfort of Crocs Echo, with users considering them a good option for long-term wear despite initial doubts.
Delivery Delays
Several users mention delays in receiving their orders, contributing to dissatisfaction with the purchasing experience.
Common questions
  • What are the sizing guidelines for Crocs Echo?
  • How do I return a defective Crocs Echo product?
  • Are Crocs Echo comfortable for long-term wear?
  • What should I do if my order is delayed?
  • How does the Crocs Echo compare to other models?
Pain points
  • Quality issues leading to safety incidents.
  • Inconsistent sizing causing fit problems.
  • Poor customer service regarding order issues.
  • Delivery delays affecting customer satisfaction.
  • Frustration with the return process.
slickdeals.net
Crocs Men's Echo Surge Sneaker (Atmosphere Acidity) $34.99 + Free Store Pick-Up at Nordstrom Rack or FS on $89+
Nordstrom Rack [nordstromrack.com] has Crocs Men's Echo Surge Sneaker (Atmosphere Acidity) for $34.99. Select free store pick-up where available, otherwise shipping is free on orders $89+ Available in sizes 9, 10, 11, 12
itsamazeling | Staff · Jun 1, 2026
www.reclameaqui.com.br
Crocs Echo Clog Rasgou na Lateral da Correia com Pouco Uso
Comprei um Crocs Echo Clog, um dos modelos mais ... e conforto pelos quais a Crocs é conhecida. Porém, para minha..., pois inclusive já trabalhei na Crocs. Sempre utilizei e armazenei o... padrão de qualidade que a Crocs divulga e que eu mesma ... retorno e espero que a Crocs demonstre o compromisso com a ...
-cMm9-BbLtG3n2oy · May 31, 2026
kin.naver.com
RE:사진속 크록스...
https://kream.co.kr/products/923356?base_product_id=864884 Crocs Echo City Adventure Clog Elephant 213115-1LM 크록스 에코 시티 어드벤쳐 클로그 엘리펀트 Crocs Echo City Adventure Clog Elephant 상품을 거래하는 가장 확실한 방법. 정품의 실시간 시세를 확인하여 똑똑하게 판매하고 구매하세요. kream.co.kr ​
비공개 답변 · May 22, 2026
slickdeals.net
Crocs Men's & Women's Echo Surge Clogs (Moonlight / White) $34.99 + Free Shipping w/ Walmart+ or on $35+
Walmart [walmart.com] has Crocs Men's & Women's Echo Surge Clogs (Moonlight / White) on sale for $34.99. Shipping is free w/ Walmart+ (free trial available [walmart.com]) or on orders $35+. Note: available only in select sizes. Features: Breathable stretch knit upper Traditional lacing system LiteRide foam footbed Exaggerated midsole design Lightweight construction
Rokket | Staff · May 18, 2026
cafe.naver.com
RE:베이프 크록스 - BAPE x Crocs Echo RO Clog
(content available to registered users only)
클랩 · May 11, 2026
www.otofun.net
RE:2Buy Nhận thanh toán và vận chuyển hàng 2 chiều VN <=> Các nước (Mỹ, Anh, Eu, Nhật...) Hàng xách tay chính hãng.
E nhận pay Crocs Echo Duck Camo Clog extra 25% Zá 1xxx +kg
2buy · May 5, 2026
r/crocs
Echo II Clog- today’s Crocs
Got something special today. These are the yet to be released Echo II clogs. Incredible fit- feels similar to Echo Clog but the contoured heel cup makes your foot sit in the clog more securely. Support is similar to the Echo RO- solid, a little rigid. Very wide friendly just like the Echo clogs. Chrome accents on the bottom and on the band. Based on the box it came it I expect these to be an EXP release. No release date but we know they’re coming since they did an event about them a few months ago and they’re starting to pop up on the gray market. submitted by /u/BurritOps to r/crocs [link] [comments]
BurritOps · Jun 16, 2026
r/crocs
Is this noise normal when walking in the Crocs Echo Clog?
Hi, I have these Crocs Echo Clogs and every time I take a step they make this annoying noise, just like that SpongeBob episode with the squeaky boots, or like a "fart" noise (excuse the term). For those who also have this Crocs model, do yours make this noise when you walk too? I practically only wear them with socks and walk on concrete floors, like in the video. I bought them recently, and if anyone has ever had this problem, do you know if there's any way to reduce this noise? submitted by /u/riccart21 to r/crocs [link] [comments]
riccart21 · Jun 15, 2026
r/crocs
Echo Wave- today’s Crocs
submitted by /u/BurritOps to r/crocs [link] [comments]
BurritOps · Jun 15, 2026
r/crocs
Echo Surge- today’s Crocs
Surge has LiteRide support and a nice stretchy upper sole. You can take them on and off without untying them. They’re not wide friendly. I had to stretch them out but once that was done they’re super comfortable and quiet. submitted by /u/BurritOps to r/crocs [link] [comments]
BurritOps · Jun 14, 2026
r/crocs
Echo Clog- today’s Crocs
Getting back to my Echo collection this week. Definitely my favorite form factor of Crocs. Comfortable. Durable. Super wide friendly. submitted by /u/BurritOps to r/crocs [link] [comments]
BurritOps · Jun 12, 2026
r/crocs
Crocs Echo sizing question
Hey, so I just picked up some lovely Crocs Echo in Marbled Green which I love, also my first pair of Crocs, but I’m having some sizing issues. I usually wear UK11 / US12 size in most shoes so I went for that size in these and they feel too big, like there’s a lot of room at the ankle area and they feel relatively loose, not what I was expecting. I’ve now tried a smaller size UK10 but these are way too small and my toe hits the inside of the toe box when walking. My question is - do Crocs other half sizes? I think a UK10.5 would be spot on. If they don’t, is this just how Crocs fit i.e. they’re supposed to feel loose/not secure on foot? Thanks in advance 🙏🏾 submitted by /u/_dudz to r/crocs [link] [comments]
_dudz · Jun 2, 2026
All threads (33)
Thread Source Author Date
Crocs Men's Echo Surge Sneaker (Atmosphere Acidity) $34.99 + Free Store Pick-Up at Nordstrom Rack or FS on $89+
Nordstrom Rack [nordstromrack.com] has Crocs Men's Echo Surge Sneaker (Atmosphere Acidity) for $34.99. Select free store pick-up where available, otherwise shipping is free on orders $89+ Available in sizes 9, 10, 11, 12
slickdeals.net itsamazeling | Staff Jun 1, 2026
Crocs Echo Clog Rasgou na Lateral da Correia com Pouco Uso
Comprei um Crocs Echo Clog, um dos modelos mais ... e conforto pelos quais a Crocs é conhecida. Porém, para minha..., pois inclusive já trabalhei na Crocs. Sempre utilizei e armazenei o... padrão de qualidade que a Crocs divulga e que eu mesma ... retorno e espero que a Crocs demonstre o compromisso com a ...
www.reclameaqui.com.br -cMm9-BbLtG3n2oy May 31, 2026
RE:사진속 크록스...
https://kream.co.kr/products/923356?base_product_id=864884 Crocs Echo City Adventure Clog Elephant 213115-1LM 크록스 에코 시티 어드벤쳐 클로그 엘리펀트 Crocs Echo City Adventure Clog Elephant 상품을 거래하는 가장 확실한 방법. 정품의 실시간 시세를 확인하여 똑똑하게 판매하고 구매하세요. kream.co.kr ​
kin.naver.com 비공개 답변 May 22, 2026
Crocs Men's & Women's Echo Surge Clogs (Moonlight / White) $34.99 + Free Shipping w/ Walmart+ or on $35+
Walmart [walmart.com] has Crocs Men's & Women's Echo Surge Clogs (Moonlight / White) on sale for $34.99. Shipping is free w/ Walmart+ (free trial available [walmart.com]) or on orders $35+. Note: available only in select sizes. Features: Breathable stretch knit upper Traditional lacing system LiteRide foam footbed Exaggerated midsole design Lightweight construction
slickdeals.net Rokket | Staff May 18, 2026
RE:베이프 크록스 - BAPE x Crocs Echo RO Clog
(content available to registered users only)
cafe.naver.com 클랩 May 11, 2026
RE:2Buy Nhận thanh toán và vận chuyển hàng 2 chiều VN <=> Các nước (Mỹ, Anh, Eu, Nhật...) Hàng xách tay chính hãng.
E nhận pay Crocs Echo Duck Camo Clog extra 25% Zá 1xxx +kg
www.otofun.net 2buy May 5, 2026
RE:2Buy Nhận thanh toán và vận chuyển hàng 2 chiều VN <=> Các nước (Mỹ, Anh, Eu, Nhật...) Hàng xách tay chính hãng.
E nhận pay Crocs Echo Duck Camo Clog extra 25% Zá 1xxx +kg
www.otofun.net 2buy May 5, 2026
RE:Morning! �
Hi @carrots0016 would echo what the others have said, ... second surgery I wore some crocs which I found so much...
forum.breastcancernow.org loupy Apr 3, 2026
Teslim Edilmeyen Sipariş, Kargo Bilgisi Yok Ve Siteye Giriş Yapılamıyor
26 Mart tarihinde Sportime sitesinden Crocs Echo adlı ürünü sipariş ettim, sipariş ... sebebiyle mağdur durumdayım. Siparişini verdiğim Crocs Echo ürününün en kısa sürede tarafıma...
www.sikayetvar.com Aynur Mar 29, 2026
Crocs Echo Icey Clog: Vício de Qualidade, Incidente de Segurança, Lesões e Queda
... Qualidade e Incidente de Segurança Crocs Echo Icey Clog Venho por meio... referente à compra da Sandália Crocs Echo Icey Ro Clog CHALK 37...
www.reclameaqui.com.br 0000000004276908 Mar 26, 2026
RE:Crocs Echo Surge Şikayeti
Crocs echo surge model ayakkabı ilk kullanımda ... pis yerlerden ürünün parçalarını topladım. Crocs markasına yakışmayan kalitesiz bir ürün...
www.sikayetvar.com Doğan Mar 23, 2026
Echo II Clog- today’s Crocs
Got something special today. These are the yet to be released Echo II clogs. Incredible fit- feels similar to Echo Clog but the contoured heel cup makes your foot sit in the clog more securely. Support is similar to the Echo RO- solid, a little rigid. Very wide friendly just like the Echo clogs. Chrome accents on the bottom and on the band. Based on the box it came it I expect these to be an EXP release. No release date but we know they’re coming since they did an event about them a few months ago and they’re starting to pop up on the gray market. submitted by /u/BurritOps to r/crocs [link] [comments]
r/crocs BurritOps Jun 16, 2026
Is this noise normal when walking in the Crocs Echo Clog?
Hi, I have these Crocs Echo Clogs and every time I take a step they make this annoying noise, just like that SpongeBob episode with the squeaky boots, or like a "fart" noise (excuse the term). For those who also have this Crocs model, do yours make this noise when you walk too? I practically only wear them with socks and walk on concrete floors, like in the video. I bought them recently, and if anyone has ever had this problem, do you know if there's any way to reduce this noise? submitted by /u/riccart21 to r/crocs [link] [comments]
r/crocs riccart21 Jun 15, 2026
Echo Wave- today’s Crocs
submitted by /u/BurritOps to r/crocs [link] [comments]
r/crocs BurritOps Jun 15, 2026
Echo Surge- today’s Crocs
Surge has LiteRide support and a nice stretchy upper sole. You can take them on and off without untying them. They’re not wide friendly. I had to stretch them out but once that was done they’re super comfortable and quiet. submitted by /u/BurritOps to r/crocs [link] [comments]
r/crocs BurritOps Jun 14, 2026
Echo Clog- today’s Crocs
Getting back to my Echo collection this week. Definitely my favorite form factor of Crocs. Comfortable. Durable. Super wide friendly. submitted by /u/BurritOps to r/crocs [link] [comments]
r/crocs BurritOps Jun 12, 2026
Crocs Echo sizing question
Hey, so I just picked up some lovely Crocs Echo in Marbled Green which I love, also my first pair of Crocs, but I’m having some sizing issues. I usually wear UK11 / US12 size in most shoes so I went for that size in these and they feel too big, like there’s a lot of room at the ankle area and they feel relatively loose, not what I was expecting. I’ve now tried a smaller size UK10 but these are way too small and my toe hits the inside of the toe box when walking. My question is - do Crocs other half sizes? I think a UK10.5 would be spot on. If they don’t, is this just how Crocs fit i.e. they’re supposed to feel loose/not secure on foot? Thanks in advance 🙏🏾 submitted by /u/_dudz to r/crocs [link] [comments]
r/crocs _dudz Jun 2, 2026
Size Crocs echo Mary jane
Hello, does anyone know what size to order the Crocs echo Mary Jane? My girl in echo is w8 and in caged is the same should I order the same size? submitted by /u/Limp-Ad4709 to r/crocs [link] [comments]
r/crocs Limp-Ad4709 May 30, 2026
Echo Reflective Backstrap Clog- today’s Crocs
These super vibrant Echos are great for night walking. LiteRide support. Super wide friendly. submitted by /u/BurritOps to r/crocs [link] [comments]
r/crocs BurritOps May 29, 2026
Echo Surge- today’s Crocs
Definitely one of my favorite pairs. LiteRide support. Awesome colors. Only downside is they run a little narrow. I had to do a shoe stretcher to make them fit. Worth the effort though. They’re some of the most comfortable Crocs I own. submitted by /u/BurritOps to r/crocs [link] [comments]
r/crocs BurritOps May 19, 2026
DIM: Crocs Echo Mary Jane Clogs
I've been deciding whether to get the ballerina flats or this one, but i think mas prefer ko to. Worth it baaaaa im scared baka pag dumating sakin auq n pla pls tell me ur thoughts, especially sa mga meron nang ganito. submitted by /u/JumpySandwich123 to r/deinfluencingPH [link] [comments]
r/deinfluencingPH JumpySandwich123 May 17, 2026
So I’m gonna get a pair of the Echos as have heard great things. I typically wear a 10 in all my crocs and wear socks with them. I’ve read these run big. Should I stick with 10 or size down to 9? Trying to avoid a return. TIA
submitted by /u/Get-Jiro to r/crocs [link] [comments]
r/crocs Get-Jiro May 15, 2026
BAPE® x Crocs Echo RO Clog Dropped
submitted by /u/BurritOps to r/crocs [link] [comments]
r/crocs BurritOps May 14, 2026
DIM: Crocs Echo Clog
contemplating if this is a good buy for 2.8k submitted by /u/Frosty-Tangerine-218 to r/deinfluencingPH [link] [comments]
r/deinfluencingPH Frosty-Tangerine-218 Apr 1, 2026
I just received my Echo Crocs!!! Does the size is ok?
submitted by /u/Pelyx to r/crocs [link] [comments]
r/crocs Pelyx Mar 31, 2026
Atin-atin lang: Crocs echo marbled clogs for 1.7k only
Nakasale sila today! Sobran glaki ng discount! submitted by /u/Supektibols to r/AtinAtinLang [link] [comments]
r/AtinAtinLang Supektibols Feb 28, 2026
Are Echo Marbled (Black Sand) Crocs worth $47? Need reviews before buying 👀
Hey everyone, I’m planning to buy the Echo Marbled clog in Black Sand / Multi for around $47 USD from the official Crocs website in India. Just wanted to ask: Is this considered a good price for Echo clogs? How’s the comfort compared to Bayaband or Classic? Are they good for daily wear (casual outings, walking, cargos, etc.)? Do they run big/small? Should I size down? Any long-term durability feedback? Would really appreciate honest reviews before I pull the trigger. Thanks 🙌 submitted by /u/Madhwansh_8601 to r/crocs [link] [comments]
r/crocs Madhwansh_8601 Feb 19, 2026
Deinfluence me: crocs echo clog in bone black
chineck out ko siya actually nung nag 2525 php using spaylater but i cancelled it. but im still tempted to go for it. sumasakit kasi paa ko sa gamit kong tsinelas ngayon and it does not look good too, but i think ok to for the long run? submitted by /u/lugaw432 to r/deinfluencingPH [link] [comments]
r/deinfluencingPH lugaw432 Feb 9, 2026
Which hero has a better default OW1 skin compared to their OW2 default?
A couple others imo are Reinhardt, Orisa, and Baptiste. submitted by /u/Rain272355 to r/Overwatch [link] [comments]
r/Overwatch Rain272355 Nov 7, 2024
First pair of Crocs ever! Got the Echo Clog. Still confused about the sizing though.
submitted by /u/foxfire to r/crocs [link] [comments]
r/crocs foxfire Sep 19, 2024
Gordon Ramsay visibly shaken shows off bike injury (injury at 0:40)
submitted by /u/Thithel to r/Damnthatsinteresting [link] [comments]
r/Damnthatsinteresting Thithel Jun 15, 2024
Black Echo Crocs for daily wear
Happy to answer any questions. They've exceeded my expectations. submitted by /u/foundfrogs to r/crocs [link] [comments]
r/crocs foundfrogs Apr 13, 2023
The Nature of Predators 88
First | Prev | Next Patreon | Series wiki | Official subreddit | Discord --- Memory transcription subject: Chief Hunter Isif, Arxur Dominion Sector Fleet Date [standardized human time]: December 3, 2136 The Sol System underwent a serious overhaul, since my last visit. Earth’s defenses had been insufficient to ward off enemy vessels, and humanity wished to ensure such defeat never happened again. I marveled at the sheer manpower they must’ve dedicated to reconstruction. According to my sensor data, the humans placed habitats as far out as the ‘Oort Cloud.’ It was impossible to spot the roughshod stations on the viewport. Their super-black paint absorbed almost all light, and their emissions were the only giveaway. A lesser mind might mistake the gravitational disturbances for an astronomical phenomenon. I would assume the UN mimicked our cloaked stations, but they couldn’t have developed the technology so quickly. Terrans devised those blueprints on their own. Humans detected my ship among the icy fragments, and nailed me with enough FTL-disruptors to fry an army. Nimble fighters raced out to join me, taking up flank positions. Visual contact confirmed to Terran scouts that the incoming vessel was of Arxur make, but that didn’t ease their suspicions. Perhaps they assumed the next Dominion visit wouldn’t be on friendly terms. The Terran craft had me target-locked, and circled my ship with contemplative intent. Surely their generals realized that despite our solitary nature, our ships wouldn’t venture off alone to attack. My mission was diplomatic in nature; I was debating how thoroughly to betray my people. There was also the issue of the three Zurulians, who wouldn’t come out when I left drinking water. They must be dehydrated and delirious by now. I hailed the cloaked habitat, hoping humanity wouldn’t make any rash decisions. It was unclear if they’d appreciate the tip-off, that their hideout wasn’t undetectable. An honest appraisal seemed helpful by my standards, but it could also wound Terran pride. That concept meant more to the Dominion than Elias Meier; however, Míngzé Zhao was not as even-keel. “You are trespassing in the Sol system, but you know that already.” A female human with a dust-colored bowl cut appeared on screen. I recognized her as General Jones, the drone program’s lead. “To what do we owe the…pleasure?” I bared my teeth. “Humans do not wish to continue open relations? Have you forgotten what we did for you so soon?” “We didn’t expect the Arxur back here, keeping tabs on us. I know a warship when I see one, and I certainly don’t like it gunning for Earth. Why do you feel entitled to roam our home system?” “Because I’m Chief Hunter Isif. You know, the single reason your species is still alive today. The one who gave you an army, sent food to your cities, pulled your dying from the rubble, and traded you the Venlil.” “…I see. My nation thanked you, and housed you. That doesn’t mean you’re going to lord your aid over humanity forever. You must use proper diplomatic channels, like everyone else.” “I’ve gone through your channels, and received a dismissive statement from Zhao. That’s unacceptable. I’ve earned some gratitude, if not respect.” “What are you going to do, sue us?” Malice glimmered in General Jones’ eyes, and a defiant smirk tugged at her lips. Fury swelled in my chest, threatening to spill into a roar. I was able to contain it to a growl, but I couldn’t believe what ingrates the humans were. The United Nations hadn’t been this flippant with me in the past, even after Meier’s death. Why the sudden hostility? I came to help humanity, but now, I don’t know whether they deserve it. Perhaps there was some truth to Shaza’s claim that the Terrans needed a kick in the teeth. If she took their bold-faced antagonism down a notch, that would be beneficial to my goals. Earth’s government warranted a reminder of their precarious position. I was less certain that I could rely on their leaders than ever. Still, humans were the only predators who wanted to end sapient farming. Their lab-grown meat had the power to feed us, and to weaken Betterment’s grip on Arxur society. Terrans must see reason again, when I reminded them we were on the same side. Meier understood how I defended humanity, and kept Giznel off their back. Concerns still hounded me over the three Zurulians, hiding on my ship. I’d risked my cover on impulse, and I couldn’t have them die after ferrying them here. It was worth brushing off the insult, so that my defective voice would settle down. However, I’d like to hear General Jones issue an apology, down the line. Her contemptful look was grating at my patience. “I’m your only ally in the Dominion. The intelligence I can offer you is worth your time,” I hissed. The primate cleared her throat. “You have something you want to share? Then spit it out.” “I’ll only speak to Zhao. I rule this entire sector: your sector. I directly interact with our government, and keep them off your backs. I deserve to look my equal in the eye, yes?” “Well, tough luck. The Secretary-General is unavailable.” “Then so am I. You haven’t even forwarded the request to him. If your leader can’t spare a minute on a call, I can’t be bothered to share my thoughts.” “I said he’s unavailable. I will apprise Zhao of any intel you divulge to us.” “I want a personal chat, human! Are you fucking dense?” Jones slanted her eyebrows. “How dare—” “How dare YOU!” I roared. “If it was important…if I was Tarva, Zhao would make time. Hell, Tarva herself was more diplomatic than you people!” The UN fighters still coasted alongside me, and I barely refrained from target-locking them. I was mistaken to think of humanity as a friend; they would always consider us second-class to the prey. The option to storm off, and communicate with Venlil Prime instead, grew more appealing by the minute. If the Terrans hadn’t disrupted my FTL capabilities, I would’ve left in a huff. There was no logical reason the humans would confront an Arxur ally, and spit in his face. Perhaps their vengeance had driven them mad; it was clear they were obsessed with Sol’s military defenses. Another possibility was that this American general was superseding the chain of command. She could be seeking to claim my intel for her nation alone. Was that it? Was Jones shutting Zhao out of the loop, as a power play? Coups weren’t unheard of, back when unrest plagued Wriss; rulers could change by the week. The drone mastermind might resent that she was snubbed for Secretary-General, in favor of a general from a rival state. Undermining Zhao’s regime would fashion the Americans as an appealing alternative. The ostensible status was that humans quieted all clannish tendencies, under threat of extinction. The United Nations supposedly helped them work together against aliens. But I wasn’t sure Earth’s tribes had laid old grudges to rest. General Jones tapped a few buttons, before sitting in silence for a minute. “Be careful what you wish for, Isif. The Secretary-General will speak with you.” I was a bit relieved that the American-led forces hadn’t done anything rash. Humans were bold enough to try to capture me, and convince me to talk through other means. From what I read on my holopad, their interrogation methods could surpass even Arxur creativity. If I’d shared those tidbits with Giznel, he’d respect their cruelty. A human male appeared on screen, dressed in formal attire. His skin was warm and tan, while his hair was styled as a black crew cut. Forehead wrinkles indicated he was middle-aged, likely with several decades in the service. Anger oozed from his taut grimace; even his shoulders were forward, asserting dominance. “Mr. Secretary-General, it’s an honor.” I forced a placid expression, and dipped my head. “I intended for us to meet much sooner. A shame, yes?” Zhao’s expression didn’t change. “Well, you have my full attention now. I suppose that is what you wanted.” “It is? That American general was stalling me from contacting you. I fear she may be watching out for her national interests, at your world’s expense.” “General Jones and I have an understanding. National interests mean nothing, with human interests under constant threat. That threat is extinction, and it pays no mind to borders. We cannot afford squabbles.” “But Jones would not pass along my call.” “Because I told her not to. I was already listening the entire time, you know.” My eyes narrowed with outrage, and I lashed my tail. This Secretary-General would blow me off, when I came to Sol to protect his forces? For pack predators with ubiquitous empathy, they had a lousy way of showing it. Who was I kidding, to think humans would help defective Arxur? Dominion rebellion meant nothing to their self-oriented agenda. I knew Terrans still cared about the Venlil, like their own pack. The new Secretary-General also lauded the other races that aided Earth, yet sported contempt for the Arxur. Furthermore, they launched new ‘exchange programs’ with the Yotul and Zurulians, while welcoming defecting herbivores to their alliance. The ever-patient humans found the resolve to train the quaking prey! To my amazement, those efforts were getting results. Obligate carnivores just aren’t convenient to their new empire…is that it? Or maybe they cannot forgive our crimes… I gritted my teeth. “What have I ever done to you? I helped you and asked nothing in return. I could’ve conquered Earth, but I treated you as equals.” “That’s the only reason I haven’t ordered Jones to capture you, Isif,” Zhao said. “With what we know today, you’re no friend of humanity. Listen carefully and tell your boss; we are not supporting agendas that go against our interests.” “What are you talking about? Our interests are the same!” “We both know that’s not true. You were adamant about Fahl and Sillis being glassed, and humanity following your every command. We are not your puppets.” “What? You’ve gone mad, Zhao. The Dominion knows you are weak, and they won’t tolerate your interference. I’m trying to keep weak predators alive into the future!” “Weak? We are not weak. We are young, and growing exponentially.” I hissed in exasperation. “Then give yourselves time to grow. Fahl and Sillis do not help your…human first agenda, am I right?” “It’s about the principle of encouraging our enemies to surrender. Besides, if we forked over the Tilfish and the Harchen worlds without a fight, it would cement this ‘human weakness’ in your minds. I will not set that precedent. The Arxur shall respect us.” Secretary-General Zhao cast an unwavering glare at the screen. As much as I wanted to unload on him, my departure from Sol required humanity lifting their FTL disruptors. Securing a ride out might require groveling; politeness was mandatory for my request to leave. But at this point, I had no intent of passing along Shaza’s plans to Earth. It felt like a betrayal, that the UN would dismiss my high-risk friendship with humanity. How could Terrans say our interests weren’t aligned, unless they were unwilling to help us? I thought we both sought a better future, and a change in the Arxur government. My defective voice wanted the hominids to like me, and accept me as one of their peers. A delirious scream echoed behind me, and my head whipped around. One of the Zurulians had climbed atop a table, in the camera’s backdrop. It was the one who’d been crying in the cage, though she looked worse for wear. Her lips were dry from dehydration, and her eyes were half-closed with fatigue. I could see desperation glitter in her pupils. “H-human! Help us…p-please,” she croaked, in a ragged voice. The Secretary-General leaned forward in his chair, and his eyes widened with alarm. His jaw clenched shortly after, as he recognized the Zurulian’s paltry condition. While I appreciated that Zhao loathed our cattle practices, the quadrupeds’ deterioration wasn’t my fault. I’d risked my hide to rescue them, and I had provided for them. Was I supposed to flush them out at gunpoint, to drink water? “So that’s why there are four life signatures on your ship.” The Terran’s voice was low and charged with fury. I noticed his hands typing at a holopad, likely communicating with Jones’ forces. “You’re using our friends as bargaining chips? You’d commit acts of terrorism in the Sol System?!” I shook my head. “It’s not like that! I brought them here so you could send them home.” “Yeah, right; conveniently forgot to mention their presence, huh? Is that your food for this week? Filthy croc.” “That’s it! I will fucking rip you from limb-to-limb, you puny branch-swinger! I will carve out your itsy-bitsy canines…and embed them on my armor as a prize!” “You won’t be doing anything. I was planning to catch-and-release you, but you’re better taken out of the equation. The United Nations will be bringing you into custody, Isif.” I tried to attempt evasive maneuvers, but the UN blew out my propulsions with a single hit. My weapons system was malfunctioning, and I found the glitch rather coincidental. The Terran fighters flanking me used mechanisms to latch on to my hull seamlessly. Sparks flew behind me, as humans began breaching into the cabin. The Zurulians bounded up to the noise, yipping for aid. The world took on a red hue, and anger overflowed into my consciousness. Feeling the need to attack something, I swung my claws at my dashboard. Electricity arced through the air, as I tore a chunk of metal out of the pedestal. Adrenaline led me to blindly throw the debris, and it nearly landed atop the Zurulians. Realizing I’d almost harmed them snapped me back to lucidity, though I was still steaming. Why is Zhao doing this? I was a valuable asset to him, from a logistical standpoint. The Secretary-General leaned in to another holopad. “This is a high-value prisoner. Bring him in, alive! I want to know what he knows.” “You’re making a mistake!” I roared. “Why are you doing this?!” “For one, you’ve learned too much about Earth’s revamps. The element of surprise is important, if worse comes to worst. An enemy Chief Hunter can’t ruin that for us.” “Enemy? Meier knew I’m not your enemy. We want the same fucking thing, Zhao.” “Meier was naïve. He couldn’t see an enemy if they were holding him at gunpoint.” I curled my lip with disdain. “You don’t believe I’m an ally, just because I’m an Arxur.” “No, I don’t believe you’re an ally, because we’ve…obtained Arxur reports. Including Shaza’s partial transcript of your visit.” I leaned back on my haunches. Understanding dawned on me, as I realized that the United Nations had tapped into our communications network. Meier understood how I played things up for effect, but that knowledge hadn’t been passed on to his successor. Perhaps my acting was a bit too superb, if it fooled the very people I was protecting. My offense over Terran aggression was gone, once there was some basis for their behavior. This was all a misunderstanding; it should be easy for me to clear things up. Of course Earth wouldn’t welcome someone who claimed to be using them in a war. It didn’t help that I insulted Zhao in my speech, though such rhetoric was tailored for a different audience. “What is it you think that I said?” I hissed. “‘I’m using humans to make the Dominion the supreme, unchallenged power.’ Oh, what about this one? ‘The UN are clueless to our aims, because Zhao is blind and on the warpath.’” “You can’t take that at face value. Read between the lines! You’re intelligent. I was trying to talk Shaza down…she wants to nuke your prizes, with your forces still there.” “We know that. And we know your rationale against an attack was ‘Not yet, save our strength.’” A metallic section of the wall toppled inward, and Terran soldiers stalked inside. The primates almost tripped over the Zurulians, who ran toward their entry point. The humans rounded on me in formation, wearing goggles over their eyes. After a moment’s hesitation, I sunk to my knees and raised my paws in surrender. “Why would you tell me you know all this? You’re tipping your hand,” I growled. The Secretary-General sported a malevolent grin. “Because you’re never going to tell your people any of it.” A dart embedded itself in my neck, and I plucked it out on instinct. My head felt a bit woozy, before I lost my balance. The humans crept closer, readying more sedatives in case the dosage was inadequate. My eyes fluttered, and my vision shrank to a pinhole. There was no hope of talking my way out of this situation…and it wasn’t the Dominion who did me in like I imagined. My undoing was assisting alien predators, who never planned for me to leave the Sol system again. --- First | Prev | Next Patreon | Arxur Bonus Free Sample | Series wiki | Official subreddit | Discord submitted by /u/SpacePaladin15 to r/HFY [link] [comments]
r/HFY SpacePaladin15 Feb 8, 2023