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It is a time of chaos and strife. The Frozen Realm of Wintreath, once spanning across the Wintrean Galaxy, is no more, only a small remnant remaining at the galactic core. In the wake of its destruction, countless wars erupted and tore across the stars. The galaxy's hyperlanes, once heavily trodden, were destroyed and forgotten in the chaos that followed, as enemies sought to gain the upper hand in petty conflicts. Short hyperspace jumps and slow warp drive travel could only connect neighboring systems, and any semblance of unity fell apart.
Now, centuries later, explorers are finally reestablishing long-forgotten connections between civilizations. As societies that have rebuilt from the fall of Wintreath once again come into contact with each other, newer nations that were never part of the galactic community also emerge from the unknown regions of the galaxy. Only time will tell how the new galactic order will emerge, whether it be in war or peace...
(https://i.imgur.com/xxWRQ90.png?1)
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Excerpt from speech by His Royal Majesty, Wintermoot XCVIII Kestar of Wintreath, following the ceremonial christening of the Kestar
Place: Royal Shipyards, Frosthold, Frozen Realm of Wintreath
Today is the dawn of a new age for the Realm.
We have existed through the millennia, guiding the peoples of the galaxy to prosperity, peace, and freedom. Yet, in the last few centuries, we have faced hardships without count that have forced us to leave vast territories open to forces of destruction and chaos.
Yet, Wintreath has lived on. We have faced difficulties before, and will in the future, but we shall also continue to prosper. Even now, hundreds of nearby star systems are clamoring to officially rejoin the Frozen Realm. These billions of peoples, from all different races and cultures, always have been and always will be Wintreans, and we welcome them with open arms.
Wintrean explorers are once again charting their way across the galaxy, rebuilding lost routes through hyperspace. Every day, we make contact with more lost worlds of the Realm, some great and others small. Many have established governments in our unfortunate absence, and we gladly welcome them to once again join a galactic community of peace and prosperity.
Today, we stand at the christening of a great ship. The Kestar represents our devotion to the people, to defend them at all costs, and to forge a new peace in the galaxy at a time of war. The chaos of the past centuries is fading away, and we shall continue to be a shining light for all peoples of the galaxy.
I foresee a day, when, as in the past, a person can travel unarmed from one end of the galaxy to the other, without fear of molestation. I will be the first in line to reforge this peace, and I urge you all to do so.
Thank you, and may the gods bless you all.
-
Shipyards above Svartalfheim Craft World
Sector (-17, 13)
Jarl Aragonn Aldrnari walked beside Kommander Vanir Gunnarr aboard the AFS Jörmungandr through the various corridors, eventually getting to the bridge. The Kommander took the Captain's chair while Aragonn walked to the forward window and looked out at the top of the ship. Aragonn then turned to the bridge crew and looked them all in the eyes.
"This is the first Aesir longboat constructed since before the War of Devastation. And all of you were chosen to run this mighty vessel. Your service has been exemplary, and I wouldn't leave our new flagship in the hands of anyone else."
Kommander Gunnarr stood. "What's our launch status?"
"We're fueled up and everyone is on board," stated the engineering officer.
"We're waiting for permission from the shipyard," said the communications officer.
Aragonn then turned back to the forward window. The Aesir Empire shall not fall from any war again, he thought to himself.
"We've been given permission to launch."
Vanir sat back in his seat. "Start up the plasma drive and release docking clamps. Bring us out at quarter speed."
The Jarl watched as the docking clamps holding the ship in place let go and retracted. The ship then slowly moved forward until it fully emerged from the shipyard.
"Take us to full speed and join the fleet awaiting us near the next planet in the system," commanded Aragonn.
AFS Jörmungandr accelerated slowly and started on its way, quickly joining the large fleet nearby.
Now we shall see if those Wintreans will want to throw us to the front lines again.
-
Gypite, Toobek
Ben Danation looked upon the crowd, filling up the streets of Gypite, celebrating the 257th anniversary of the founding of New Witchmond. He looked up at his great fleet seeable in the cloudy skies. His second in command, Al Ser, then came up to him.
"Mr. Danation, we have spotted an unkown scout ship near our borders, what we do?" Al Ser informed Ben.
"Send him a static message, if he receives it and responds, then send a ship up to them and lead them to this planet. We shall see who this ship belongs to." Ben responded.
"Yes, Mr. Danation." Al Ser replied. He then went to the control tower to sent contact the scout.
"Hello? Welcome to New Witchmond. Please state who you are." Al Ser sent to the scout.
-
Imperial Senate, Zuophus
New Era's Celebration
Consul Nicholas Æinridisson was about to make a speech to the Senate, making a speech for his 7th term.
"Senators of Acaria! Today, we are celebrating for a new era has come! Many centuries have passed since the Great Collapse. But since then, Acaria has entered prosperous times! We have forged a destiny, and a civilization that shall stand the test of time! Our scientists, engineers, and artists have make many remarkable feats. Our first megaproject has started construction. The Aetherius shall become the flagship and lead our fleet into glory."
Nicholas paused, making sure he was making eye contact with every senator.
"A New Era has started, and I know it will be glorious! I have started my 7th term, and our people have managed to remake contact outside of our borders. It is only time till we meet another fully fledged civilization. Our military has been poor in recent times, Acaria only managing peace with extremely careful diplomacy. But, I will end this. We must show the galaxy we are a power not to be messed with!"
The Auditorium filled up with cheers from most of the senators.
"For my 7th term, I shall make our military great again. It has only been populated mostly by drakonians, and few volunteer. I shall change this. As my first policy, I will enact our military to be mobilized and ready, no longer will our fleet be underpopulated. That is all for today. Glory to Acaria, and glory to the New Age!"
Voting then began on the new policy. Senators debated and discussed over the new policy, but things look favorable towards the militaristic ambition.
Royal Square, Zuophus
Emperor Zemas XVIII's Speech
The day was also an important. It was the day of the Royal Anniversary. For 1000's of years, Zemas's dynasty has ruled. Thousands of citizens packed the Square. Food, drink, and gifts were there to be given to citizens. Zemas stood on the main balcony of the Palace overseeing the Square.
"Welcome Citizens! To the anniversary of my house. It has been an honor being your monarch. Today, we shall enter a Golden Age. The Empire can only increase in Prosperity from here. We have made amazing discoveries and technologies. The Aetherius Project is in full swing and we have been rich in our secure nation. Soon, we will send ships to leave our borders and once again explore and make contact with the entire galaxy. Anyways, let the Festivities begin!"
Meanwhile...
The scout was surprised to receive a message. He was sent on a mission to explore in this direction of the galaxy. He decided to respond since it wasn't worth being shot down as a pirate. Especially in the expensive Specter starfighter.
"Hello, this is Pergec Adharan speaking. Part of Acaria's 2nd Recon Division. Sent to explore the galaxy."
-
Excerpt From Annual Imperial Address
Imperial Palace, Romulus.
His Imperial Majesty Augustus Toridex speaks from the Marble Dais of the Emperor:
"...Additionally, I am proud to announce this day that we have finally deployed the Tal Shiar 35th Fleet, composed of approximately 212 Excursor-class Exploration Cruisers have been dispatched to search the surrounding sectors for acceptable areas to further expand the empire in.
Furthermore, to supplement our magnificent Imperial Star Navy, and to provide additional security as we rediscover the galaxy, and whatever empires may want to take portions of our great empire, I have instructed all Imperial Cloning Facilities throughout the empire to resume full production of Cloned Legions. Any civilisation that has developed in the wake of the Galactic Civil Wars that is a danger to our hard work and progress will be dealt with quickly and efficiently.
Our Glorious Empire continues to expand! Thank you all for your hard work. This is not the accomplishment of any of us here on the Capitoline, but the result of the hard work of tens of trillions of citizens throughout the empire. I commend you all! Romulus hodie, Romulus crasum, Romulus aeternum!
On Romulan Warbird Aeterna Venatora,
Deployed to Explore Unknown Space.
After receiving and decoding the message originating on New Witchmond (the name of the planet, according to the message), the crew of the Aeterna Venatora panicked. They double checked their cloaking devices and scanned the surrounding area. Luckily, they soon determined that there was no malfunction in the cloaking device, but that the message was directed to an unidentified scout craft approximately .6 light-years away—not them. Tal Shiar Major Telsnen ordered the Venatora to follow the vessel into the New Witchmond space as the message requested, his curiosity peaked by the prospect of a new world, one that appeared to have survived intact just as well. He sent an encoded subspace message back to the Tal Shiar Headquarters on Romulus, designed to look like a normal piece of the usual subspace interference, to inform the General Nevorek, his superior, of the Venatora's whereabouts, then watched as the Excursor-class closed in on the scout, and New Witchmond.
Tal Shiar Headquarters, Deep Below The Imperial Palace in the Capitoline Senatorial Complex, Romulus.
"General Nevorek, we have received an update from the Aeterna Venatora. They have located an advanced inhabited system and a scout craft that they have started to track. Would you like to respond?"
"Yes, most certainly." The 167-year-old Vulcan replied, carefully going over the most recent reports from nearby sectors. "Tell them to initiate protocol 126-B."
-
Al Ser listened in on the reply and realize it belonged to their neighboring empire, Acaria. "Ah, sorry for the inconvienence, we weren't able see your nation's markings on the radar. You may continue on with your explorations.
Al Ser made his way back to the celebration and met up with Ben Danation. "The ship had no markings, but it was a scout recon ship belonging to Acaria. The ship was exploring lands past our empire. I let them continue on."
"Very well. Check the footage around around our borders. Make sure no space pirates are entering." Ben Danation ordered.
Al Ser came back to the control tower and looked over the security footage. The presence sensors then noticed a small heat signal a few light years away. Cloakers, great he thought to himself.
"Acarian scout, our footage shows cloakers a few light years away, do they belong to your nation?" He questioned the scout.
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"No. I am to believe I am the only one out here at the moment. Nobody from High Command has told me if one would accompany me. It does not belong to our nation."
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"Very well, thank you for your cooperation, and best of luck on your explorations." Al Ser then sent a static message in the direction of the heat signals. "Hello cloakers? We have detected your heat signals. Please identify yourselves."
-
Capital Building, Industries Spirit, Avon, Avonite Enclave
Irk Flowchaser hurried down the corridor. He had completely lost track of time and now he was late for the meeting. Again. Damn, he was not good at this whole Council business. He finally reached the Council room and entered. Jan Lightbringer, Art Marshwalker, Des Skyflyer and Kir Darkcloak were already there. Marshwalker turned to see who had entered, his facial expression dropping into annoyance when he saw who it was. "Flowchaser, the meeting started 10 minutes ago. Is the concept of time one that you continue to struggle with?" Before Flowchaser could eek out a response, Darkcloak laughed then said "Big words from the guy who got here 2 minutes ago, Marshwalker. Dont be so hard on the man." Marshwalker's spinespikes bristled at that, but he let it go. Flowchaser took his seat and the meeting continued. Skyflyer stood up to speak.
"This meeting is to determine what our foreign policy should be. We have the Wintreath Remnant close by, a potential threat we cannot ignore. If they decide to try and rebuild their empire, we could potentially be one of their first targets for expansion. The Romulans are also a possible threat, along with almost all our neighbors. What we do now may just decide the fate of our people, so we need to decide who our friends and enemies are very carefully." Lightbringer spoke next. "We dont need a great foreign policy, just a bigger army. Bigger army diplomacy works just fine, no one would dare stand against us with our might." Flowchaser nervously spoke next. "I'm not an expert, but I thought our armies were in a crisis? Dont we have trouble replacing losses in the field? And our fleet is no where as big as it once was, even if we have strength we just do not have the numbers to sustain a long war, right?" Marshwalker nodded. "I agree with the simpleto.... I mean with my colleague. Bigger army diplomacy works only when we have the bigger army. Even Kir over there cant replace our fleet or our armies in time." Darkcloak pretended to cough, saying "Buy more robots!" as she did. Flowchaser chuckled but Marshwalker ignored her. "We need to carefully consider who we want as a friend. We need allies." Darkcloak spoke next "My elitist friend, I could not agree more." More bristled spinespikes, but again Marshwalker remained silent. Darkcloak continued "We need friends. Lots of them. Maybe trade with them a little. Or a lot. Yeah, I think trade with them a lot sounds better. Think of the profit!" Lightbringer whispered under his breath "Put that on her gravestone." Flowchaser giggled and Darkcloak continued. "So I suggest this, we observe. Get a bearing. Know who is friend material. Preferably friends with money. Lots of it. And while we do, I sell you a new fleet! I could have 100 new Pendelton-class cruisers and 100 escort ships ready quickly. We already were working on them, now you can buy them! Discounted, of course. And you could also buy more robots!" Flowchaser nodded and spoke "I agree. I say we wait and see while we build up our strength. Anyone else agree?" Marshwalker leaned into his chair and nodded. Lightbringer barely gave it a thought before nodding. Darkcloak gave a Cheshire cat smile that seemed to show agreement with her plan. Flowchaser already agreed. Skyflyer had some reservations but knew she could not change the course they would take now, so for unity's sake she nodded as well.
Darkcloak Industries went about the task of earning their large paycheck and providing the Enclave with an extra fleet. And also providing them with more robots. Meanwhile, their diplomatic service would observe the world to see who they could possible ally with.....
-
On the Venatora, Major Telsnen smiled. Too predictable, he thought. He ordered the vessel to return the reactor temperature to normal and proceeded to decloak. "Activate audio communications array!" he cleared his throat, "This is the Imperial Romulan Warbird Aeterna Venatora. The Romulan Star Empire extends its greetings, and more vessels will be dispatched shortly to open more normal diplomatic communications, but for now I am the Empire's authorised ambassador to both your New Witchmond and the Acarian Empire. I am Major Telsnen, of the Tal Shiar."
On his command chair, he sent a message to Romulus. Protocol 126-B has been implemented, as you command. He then patiently waited for a response from New Witchmond...
-
"Greetings Major Telsnen. I am Al Ser, second in command of New Witchmond. If you would like, we can escort your ships to the planet of Toobek to meet up with our president, Ben Danation." Responded Al Ser. Al Ser sent a message to Ben Danation "We have discovered another empire, going by the name of the Romulans, we have invite the captain of their exploration squad to meet up with them, anything else you would like me to do?"
Ben Danation replied shortly after, "Send scouts scouts, exploring each direction. With the discovery of my empires, we should figure out who else is out there."
Al Ser then sent off the scouts, north, south, east, and west attempting to find more empires.
-
"A pleasure to meet you, Sub Legate Al Ser. We shall follow your escort vessels immediately, and we would be glad to need with your premiere to discuss the establishment of full diplomatic communications between our peoples. I shall send for more officials from Romulus immediately. This is a historic day for our two peoples. Telsnen out."
Major Telsnen sighed. The interaction was going well. He requested an official Delegation to be sent from Romulus immediately—five modified D'Deridex Warbirds carrying the finest products of the empire, the equipment to build an embassy, and the personnel required to then man it.
-
Senate Building, Lernaea
"Today is a magnificent day! I am here to announce that our scout ships have taken flight, exploring north!" announced Chancellor Graff to the Senate. What the rest of the Senate didn't know was that the ships were in flight a week prior to the announcement.
A massive round of applause took place after the announcement.
ISA Headquarters
"I just got a report that the Reconnoitre has made contact. They call themselves the Aesir Empire. How do we proceed?" reported Garriot to Morrow.
"Proceed with caution. Let them know who we are... and do be diplomatic. War is the last thing we want on our hands. Peace is what we stand for."
"Very well," responded Garriot.
Reconnoitre, Vigil Class Corvette
"Hello. I am Admiral Victus of the Allied States of Lernaea. You are speaking to the commanding officer of the Reconnoitre. We come in peace," announced the Admiral.
-
The Aesir destroyer was patrolling sectors outside of the Empire for possible invaders when it came across this ship of exploration. All weapons were powered on as per Standard Operating Protocol.
"This is Captain Bogdr of the AFS Ratatoskr. Had I not caught you before you crossed our border, you'd have been shot first and interrogated later. Consider yourself fortunate." The Captain then removed his helmet to look at the Admiral with his own eyes. "Tell me, what is an Admiral doing way out here? Shouldn't you be behind a desk somewhere?" Bogdr chuckled at his own remark.
-
"Alright, Major Telsnen, we will send an escort ship to lead you back to our capital planet, Toobek. It might take a bit, so stay close to where you are currently." Al Ser informed the Romulan ship. Al Ser went to the spacedocks to prepare an escort ship.
"We are ready, when you give us the signal" the pilot commented.
"You may go" said Al Ser.
The escort ship then took off.
-
Computer Conversation Records
IRW D'Venorex Elysia
Romulan Orbit at Starbase Romula
"Admiral Pistrix! What are you doing aboard?"
"If you had bothered to read your mission briefing, Commodore Fabar, you would realise that I am personally leading this Task Force to Toobek. This mission is of vital importance to the Empire. You will follow the Caelum in the second position of the formation."
"No disrespect intended sir, but won't a Falchion-class intimidate them if it just appears outside of their capital world? That might not be the best idea diplomatically."
"Do you honestly think that the Praetor Aquilex is that incompetent? We shan't be travelling under cloak once we reach the border of New Witchmond space. Your lack of confidence worries me, Commodore. Ready the Task Force for immediate deployment."
Twenty minutes later, the five D'Deridex Warbirds and sole Falchion battleship cloaked and departed for Toobek...
-
Imperial Senate, Zuophus
What had appeared to be an easy vote, turned out to become a heated debate. Senators discussed about the possibilities of militarizing. One of the main points being that Acaria has been peaceful for many centuries. So far 42 votes have been casted out of the 150 senators. The votes were 22-20 and Militarization was in the lead. Many were uncertain and it seems the Vote will go on for a few days.
-
TO: Minister of State Helia Baker
FROM: First Consul William Xavier
We've been in contact with the Aesir and Laurentians for some time now, and as we've discussed with their governments before, it's time to set up an official diplomatic presence in both of their empires.
Send diplomatic missions to both the Aesir and the Laurentian Empires, and provide the necessary security details from the Fleet. One Carpe Diem-class cruiser per embassy should suffice.
TO: First Consul William Xavier
FROM: Minister of Defense
I am pleased to report that construction of new ships and vehicles is slightly ahead of schedule. We should have several more Aphelion-class battleships soon, and construction of other vehicles is seeing similar progress.
Near territories of Allied States of Lernaea
(-15, 6)
An Exploration Fleet task force sailed through space, traveling to the next inhabitable star system. Things were going rather well.
At regular intervals, the Fleet set up outposts to expand Science's territories and support its growing population. Meanwhile, they also made contact with any inhabitants of these systems. Most tended to trace their lineage back to the Frozen Realm, as did the Democratic Empire, after a fashion.
The Fleet made peaceful contact with these smaller nations and welcomed them into Science. Many accepted after seeing the countless benefits, though some nations chose to instead enter an alliance led by Science. Those who refused were allowed to remain independent, but most saw after some time that their choice was only bringing them ruin and hindering them from reaching greater prosperity.
This task force, however, was under a different mission. Under the command of Director-General Kenne Bailey himself, its goal was to contact major powers of the galaxy. Traveling far away from Science's territories, it led the discovery of other important galactic nations.
This time, traveling south of the Aesir Empire, the Exploration Fleet detected signs of a burgeoning civilization. The task force exited its last hyperspace jump into an uninhabited star system near what appeared to be this unknown civilization's border, and began to transmit its standard first contact signal.
-
The emperor had just finished reading his son's report when Marinia walked in.
"You summoned me, Maxxie," Marinia stated, quite amused at the situation. He proceeded to walk over to the chair in front of Laurentus' desk and leisurely take a seat. The two brothers didn't stand on ceremony.
"Is that how Sarilla put it?" Laurentus chuckled at the dramatic way his niece still did things from time to time. "I suppose being informed by your own daughter that 'the Emperor summons you,' would be rather strange." He proceeded to pull out a cookie jar from under his desk, filled with the creamiest soft chocolate chip cookies they had received as a gift from the Æsir Empire. "Here, try these cookies. They are absolutely delicious. I have half a mind to conquer them just for access to their cookie factories," Laurentus said jokingly.
Marinia tasted one, and had to agree with his brother's assessment. "Gods, that is good. If I have to turn the Æsir Empire into a shining dust cloud, I will just to get access to these cookies." They both chuckled for a few seconds and enjoyed a few moments of silence together, before Marinia spoke again. "I suppose I should caution her against it, but I just can't discipline her. Anytime I've tried, she just looks at me that way she always does, and turns my resolve into jelly. You're lucky to have a son."
"I understand, but she is an heir to the throne. You must attempt to do it. Of course, if father were still the one in charge, she'd have gone through the same training you did. I imagine that would have changed her. Regardless, I requested your presence to discuss recent events, and your opinion on diplomatic missions to the Æsir and Science Empires." Laurentus had taken on a completely different expression now. Now, he was truly the emperor addressing his most trusted military advisor.
Marinia was puzzled. "I assume you're asking me because of how it relates to the reawakening of the Wintrean Remnants?"
"Correct. I'm also concerned our reputation as conquerors might make the other empires less inclined to stand with us."
Marinia didn't know what to say to that. "Well. They'd have reason. But we also have a reputation for being honourable and keeping our word. There is also our history with the Frozen Realm to take into consideration. People know of the bad blood between us. Additionally, I've heard whispers that some of the southern Empires, particularly the Romulans, are looking to expand into the North. These claims are unsubstantiated, of course, since we have no way of collecting information in a reliable and timely manner across such vast distances, at this stage, but we would all be fools to ignore it."
"That is what concerns me, too." Laurentus suddenly switched back into his role as the older brother asking his younger brother for a serious favour. "Marinia, I think it may be time to test the capabilities of Element Zero."
Marinia was puzzled by his brother's expression. "I agree. I'm confused as to why you wanted to discuss it with me, though."
Laurentus steeled himself. He would order this done if he had to, but he hoped he wouldn't have to resort to that. "Marinia, we need people we trust implicitly to head to the Æsir and Science Empires as our ambassadors. What's more, we need to send them in our newly constructed prototype ships."
"Once more, I agree. Get to the point, Maxxie. You obviously feel uncomfortable with whatever it is you want to say."
Laurentus took a deep breath. "I want to send Maximus Junior and Sarilla to the Æsir and Science Empires, respectively. Along with a full crew of undercover military and intelligence personnel armed with the latest eezo weaponry."
Marinia was uncomfortable with the idea, but he knew he couldn't keep Sarilla safe so close to him, either way. He sighed, then responded: "Alright, I agree it's best. Do it."
And so the Laurentian Empire made its first move against what was left of their ancient enemy, the hated Wintrean Remnants.
-
Ithyr Osman Lyech
Vysenn, Koria System, Capital Sector
“Reports indicate there are several systems to the east that are suitable for mining, sir,” a resources analyst said to the Ithyr. It was a long day; Lyech had spent most of it in his office filling out paperwork and talking with such insignificant underlings as the one speaking now.
“To the east?” he grunted. “The old Hvis systems?”
“Yes sir. Mostly uninhabited now, save for some scattered people. Terraforming and colonization would be a relatively simple matter; many of the planets are already suited to life, and the others shouldn’t take too much work.”
“Very well. Bring me Alcar Renn, and come back with him. Be quick about it, we will discuss this further.” The Ithyr pointed toward the door, and the analyst ran off to fetch the man. Caddus Renn was the Alcar – or Minister – of the newly created Ministry of Peaceful Expansion. Noting the recent expansion by several other empires throughout the galaxy, Lyech had deemed it necessary that Kevarus expand as well. If the trend continued toward intersystem expansion, he would need to align himself with a stronger realm sooner or later. For now, he was content to expand into unclaimed systems, although the nearby presence of the Avonite Enclave did worry him.
Turning in his seat, he looked out of his window. Vysenn was the capital of the Chain, and covered in large part by a sprawling metropolis. From this view, Lyech could see towering skyscrapers and countless government offices. Small ships covered the sky like a flock of birds. And, down below – far down below, for Lyech’s office was high up in one of the tallest buildings on Vysenn – people rushed around like frenzied ants, all with somewhere to be.
Some minutes later, when the old man had grown impatient, his door again opened and the two men he had requested strolled in. Lyech again turned in his seat to face them standing in front of his desk. Renn nodded and said, “Sir.”
“Well? These systems to the east? You know of them?” Lyech asked.
“Yes, I do. Many sectors to our east would function greatly as mining colonies. Several were previously inhabited by the Hvis; so there are ruins of great cultural value as well. I’m not sure why they didn’t exploit the minerals there for themselves. Perhaps they did not want to pollute the worlds they inhabited. Regardless of their reasons, the metals are still there and ripe to be exploited. Many of our ships are out exploring other systems at the moment, but I could easily arrange a small expedition to colonize a few of these systems.”
“And the cost of such an expedition? What would that be?”
“It would be fairly cheap, since the planets are mostly suitable for life as is. Just about the same as the cost of setting up a mining operation anywhere else.”
“Very well. I approve this mission. Take two teams with you – one for mining, and one to explore the old ruins. Perhaps we will find cultural artifacts, or some objects of economic value. Are there any papers I need to sign for this?”
“Just one – a paper that declares the sectors we colonize to be our territory. You don’t need to sign it now, though; I’ll send in the paper once our teams have arrived.”
“Thank the gods. I’m sick of signing papers for today. Very well, then, get to it; you’re dismissed. And, er… I suppose you are, too,” Lyech said, turning his gaze to the analyst, who had been silent this whole time. “Rather pointless of me to call you back here in the first place, come to think of it.”
Both men nodded to the Ithyr and left his room.
Captain Reyalt Krisen
Sector (-17, 17)
The pirate stood in the cockpit of the Zephyr, his own Frigate-class starship. He commanded a small fleet of pirates employed by the Severett Guild. One more Frigate-class ship accompanied him, and three Xebec-class ships rode ahead of the fleet. For several days now, they had been travelling around this area of the galaxy, between the Aesir and Rationalist Science, waiting for an unfortunate convoy to prey upon. Usually, this was not a long assignment; they had been on the job for longer than usual this time around.
Krisen chalked it up to sheer bad luck that they had been gone this long, but today was different. For an hour or two now, the fleet had been tracking some signals they were receiving. They seemed to indicate the presence of 3-5 ships. Krisen’s fleet had gone radio silent immediately upon detecting the signals. The ships they tailed seemed to be unaware of their presence. The signals were close now; soon they would have visual.
“Are you prepared?” Krisen asked the nearby crew. Several nodded or gave affirmations. “And you are ready to take all normal procedures?” More nods and affirmations.
They were visible now. Three ships larger than Krisen’s own Frigate-ships, and two slightly smaller. The pirates were at a disadvantage in terms of weapons, but it was nothing they weren’t used to. The ships, though distant, appeared to be of Aesir make. Few pirates dared go after Aesir ships, but Krisen was no coward.
“Breaking radio silence,” the Captain said into the communications line with the fleet. “Are all ships ready?”
Four replies signified that yes, they were ready.
“As are we. Attack!”
Immediately upon hearing , the Xebec-ships began operating their signal jammers and swooped in to begin harassing the opponents’ shields with their gunfire. Zephyr and the other Frigate-class ship descended upon their targets next.
By now all ships were engaged. No damage had been done yet; all the gunfire from both sides was reflected off of the enemies’ ships. Krisen opened up a communication line to the Aesir.
“This is Captain Reynalt Krisen, of the Severett Guild. We have experience dealing with your kind, and this encounter can only badly for you. Surrender immediately, and we will search your ships and allow you to leave unharmed. Otherwise, no mercy will be shown. This is your only opportunity to surrender.”
-
The escort arrived, and was intimidated by the massive ship accompanying the group.
"Uh, here, follow me," the escort warily said.
-
Aesir Diplomatic Convoy to Science
Sector (-17, 17)
The Aesir destroyer AFS Hrothgarr, commanded by Captain Borghildr, was all the Empire could spare from territory defense to escort the three frigates to Rationalist Science. They were traveling through the void of hyperspace.
"Dropping back to normal space," stated the pilot before a hole opened up in front of them. All four ships flew through before the hole closed up again.
Borghildr stood up from her chair. "Scan the area for ships."
"No ships within scanner range," reported tactical officer.
"Order the frigates forward full speed and match their speed. And get the hyperdrive engines recharged. I want to be gone from here as soon as possible."
The four ships were flying for a few minutes before the pilot spoke up.
"Ma'am, five ships have entered scanner range. They're heading for us."
"Send this on all frequencies: change your course or be fired upon. This is an Aesir diplomatic convoy. Repeat, change your course or be fired upon."
The Captain stood there, waiting as the communications officer worked. When the comm officer shook his head she knew what they were. Pirates.
"They're gaining on us, Captain."
"Alert the frigates and tell them to prepare their Drekrekkr for boarders."
The comm officer pressed some buttons but turned towards Borghildr. "Communications are being jammed!"
Borghildr picked up her helmet and put it on. Time for battle. "Battle stations!"
Red lights came on all throughout the ship, and the crew scrambled to their designated posts.
"Signal the frigates with the signal lights! Power weapons and shields! Load the torpedo tubes!"
Three lights on top of the destroyer flashed in a certain order a few times. The three frigates soon powered their weapons and shields.
"They're getting close!"
"Fire aft torpedoes!"
Torpedoes screamed out of all four of the destroyer's aft tubes and went seeking out the enemy ships. All four torpedoes were expertly dodged.
"Cut the plasma drive and fly on inertia! Use maneuvering thrusters to rotate us 90 degrees to port!" The pilot brought the ship around, all port side railguns facing the enemies. "Dodge this, swine! BROADSIDE THEM!"
All port side railguns simultaneously spit out their rounds at the enemy. Most hit, but those that hit bounced off their shields.
"Get those rail-GAH!" The Captain gripped the arms of her chair as the ship shuddered from the enemy weapons impacting its shield.
"They're hailing us!"
"Put it on screen!"
The Pirate Captain's face appeared on the screen. Borghildr removed her helmet to show her face and the pure loathing she had for them.
The Pirate Captain then spoke, saying, "This is Captain Reynalt Krisen, of the Severett Guild. We have experience dealing with your kind, and this encounter can only end badly for you. Surrender immediately, and we will search your ships and allow you to leave unharmed. Otherwise, no mercy will be shown. This is your only opportunity to surrender.”
"We will blast you all to Helheim! And when you get there, tell them Captain Borghildr sent you. Then apologize on my behalf for the inconvenience." Borghildr put her helmet back on then ended the transmission.
-
Admiral Pistrix smiled at the response of the escort. "Hail the vessel! Also, ensure that no hostile movements are made by any Romulan vessel. Any Captain who disobeys will be court marshalled and shot."
"Communications now open, Admiral!" The communications Ensignant stated.
"Very Good! Hello New Witchmond escort. This is Admiral Pistrix of the Imperial Romulan Warbird Caelum, commanding Romulan Diplomatic Temporary Task Force 12. We are ready to follow you to establish an embassy and further progress diplomatic communications. We have Ambassador Zentren on board, our liaison to your people. He is very anxious to meet with your government. We await your instructions."
-
Imperial Senate
In the end, the Militarization got the most votes. Some senators were already envisioning dreams of imperial glory. the vote ended in 87-63. The policy would begin its effects after the Royal Anniversary was over. The Emperor would be notified immediately.
Royal Palace at Night, Zuophus
The Festivities were in full swings. Over 10,000 guests from the realm were invited to the Party inside the Imperial Palace. The Imperial Domain itself was 4,018 acres. This included the gardens, the royal square, and every building the monarch considered part of the Palace Domain. The actual palace itself contains 520,000 square meters of floorspace and consisted of 5 floors and a basement. Acaria boasts to have the largest palace in the galaxy. The architecture is a mix of traditional and modern and is filled with many wonders. One can often get lost in the palace or its huge gardens.
The party was going fantastic and everyone was enjoying themselves. There were many exotic foods and it was a large feast. Millions of Drakoes were spent for this party as the Emperor needs to impress its citizens or other civilizations in the galaxy. The Nation's best Symphony was invited to play as well. There were many activities and games to play as well. Emperor Zemas XVIII was in the ballet room speaking with well acquainted friends. Fortunately, the senate vote managed to end before the party started. Zemas was speaking with the Consul, Thravur, and the Head of Multi-Quadrillionaire company LECI, Chariton Athanasius.
"So, the Militarization vote managed to get through?" asked Zemas.
"Yes. It was a tough debate in the end, but I managed to convince some key senators. This will hopefully tell other nations to be warned not to attack us. And it will help us expand our borders as we control a small part of the galaxy." replied Nicholas.
"Our military tech needs some aid however. Tech has increased since the Great Collapse, plus these are Civilizations we have to deal with now. Our roster of Ships is very small. All we have is a carrier and some attack ship. It just won't do. Thravur, I know you're busy with our current project, but can you get a team of engineers to design us some blueprints for capital ships, frigates and such? We need to have diversity to win major space battles."
Thravur said, "I think I may be able to assemble a team. I have some contacts. However, I will mostly be supervising the Aetherius so you'll have to get someone to supervise them."
Thravur soon got a call through his communicator.
"Sorry, I must go. There's important business regarding a project of mine. Glory to Acaria." said Thravur as he got up and left the party.
"Chariton, will you be able to build more ships, including those blueprints that will be made? Of course we'll pay the appropriate amount of money."
"Sure. But we must relax and enjoy this party. There is plenty of time to do all of this and nations won't declare war on us at this second. The Monarch of this nation has to have some fun after all." answered Chariton who sipped on some Cognac. Nicholas and Zemas decided to heed his advice as the party went on.
-
Reconnoitre, Vigil Class Corvette
"I was chained to a desk for too long, and I believe that desk work should be left to those who deserve it, not to person who has earned his/her rank. Don't you agree? Anyway, all I had to do was pull rank... they let me slip right in!" replied the admiral with a smile slowly forming across his face.
ISA Headquarters
"Sir, we... our scanners have picked up a signal!" exclaimed Garriot. "It seems that ships have entered our border. I'll send convoy to meet them."
Two Triumph-class battleships were already moving into position in case anything went south, escorting a diplomat.
"As I said before, keep the peace," replied Morrow. "And before the convoy arrives, just patch them through to our headquarters. You can handle the talking for now. Keep me in the loop."
"Yes sir," responded Garriot. He turned to the comms. "Patch me through!"
He then turned away, took a deep breath, put on his game face, and muttered to himself, "I hope this goes well. Two civilizations in such a short period."
He slowly turned back and prepared for diplomacy.
-
Captain Reyalt Krisen
Sector (-17, 17)
The fire from both sides was now more intense. Torpedoes shot from both sides, but all were dodged. The smaller ships were darting around like hummingbirds, maintaining their hold over enemy signals. So the enemy captain had refused to surrender; Krisen had expected that. The transmission was more of a formality than anything.
“Form a boarding party!” he shouted to his crew. “All able-bodied sailors not on pilot duties get to assigned boarding parties!” Opening up communication lines to his other ships, he repeated the order to the other Frigates and ordered them to position themselves below the enemy.
Another round of enemy fire against his shields brought Krisen to his knees. After a moment, he forced himself back up. He turned to see several sailors fallen on top of each other; it would have been comical if not for the urgency of their mission. “Up, up!” he shouted at them. After they had disentangled themselves, they resumed running toward their positions.
The Captain saw another round of torpedoes incoming. Both frigates dodged without much issue, but Krisen watched as a Xebec was violently ripped apart by one of the projectiles. He winced at the sight. The other two small ships appeared to be in fine condition, and could keep up the signal jamming. They were more likely to momentarily lapse in said jamming, however.
“Fire back! Blast these bastards into oblivion! All torpedoes, go!”
From both frigates were launched several projectiles, but none appeared to make impact. The status quo continued, railgun fire bouncing off of each other’s shields.
“Descend, descend! Get under their ships so we can board!”
The ships began maneuvering into position. A round of railgun fire somehow pierced through the shields as they moved downward. A massive jolt was sent throughout the ship. Krisen nearly fell, but caught himself on a rail.
“What’s the damage?” he asked a crew member poring at a status map of the ship.
“Insignificant, sir; the damage is superficial. Hit us on the hull, all operations are still running without issue.”
“Good, good.”
The undersides of the enemy ships were now visible. They were nearly in position…
Launching the pods would be brutal, Krisen could tell. The enemy gunfire was a continuous downpour now, and while the pods could withstand impressive degrees of gunfire, they were not invincible. The fate of the mission would depend on the success of the launch.
“Are all boarding pods ready?” he asked into the communications life to the other Frigate.
“Aye!” came the response.
“On my count. 3… 2… 1…”
The pods shot out of the ships in unison; and, after a moment more of maneuvering, another group of pods shout out from Zephyr. They were all headed toward the enemy Frigates; the Destroyer could be dealt with after, or hopefully destroyed beforehand by the pirates’ guns.
In their propulsion between shields, they took beatings from gunfire. A few were destroyed in the hail of bullets, but more continued to push through, headed directly for the Aesir landing bays.
-
Captain Bogdr
AFS Ratatoskr
"Aye, the Captain's chair is the only thing I want. Better to command a starship than command a desk. I apologize for asking, but where did you say you hail from? Lernaea? Our people were unsure if you survived the war."
Aesir Diplomatic Convoy
Sector (-17, 17)
Alarms were going off to signal that the shield generator needed to vent energy. Borghildr gripped her seat tightly as she attempted to figure a course of action.
"Ma'am!" shouted the engineering officer. "If we don't vent the shield now, the generator will explode and disable us!"
The Captain roared in frustration. They're just pirates! "Vent the generator and fire up the plasma drive! Initiate evasive maneuvers!"
The destroyer's shield went offline to vent the excess energy while the plasma drive roared back to life. The destroyer maneuvered up and over the frigates, firing torpedoes back at any pursuants, and came around to the other side of the frigates. The ship took a few hits, but no critical areas were hit and all affected areas were sealed by emergency bulkheads.
"Stop putting holes in my ship!" roared Borghildr.
"Ma'am, they're under the frigates! Boarding pods are prepping to be launched at the landing bays!"
"Yes!" exclaimed the Captain. "Finally something to work with!" She pointed at the pirate frigates on the tactical screen. "Fire all forward torpedoes at their launch point! Hit them while they're launching!"
The pilot brought the destroyer around to face the frigates, and six torpedoes shot out right towards them. All of their hope and the fate of the destroyer rode on this one move.
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-19, 13)
Aragonn was watching the massive fleet from the bridge of the AFS Jörmungandr, proud to have such force at his command. Only had such a sight been seen during the days before the War, before he could lift a railrifle. To see the Empire, his home, have this again made him joyful.
Kommander Gunnarr hailed the AFS Jörmungandr from his battleship, the AFS Gungnir. Aragonn answered the hail immediately, and Gunnarr's face came up on the screen.
"Vanir! My brother! What news do you bring?"
Gunnarr had a stone expression. "Sir, we've lost contact with the diplomatic convoy to the Science Empire."
Aragonn's happiness was replaced by worry. "Who is the CO of that fleet?"
"Captain Borghildr of the AFS Hrothgarr."
The Jarl was even more worried now. Damn that woman. Why didn't she accept my offer to be my mate? "How many escorts were sent with that fleet?"
"Just her destroyer. We didn't find it necessary to send any more."
"DIDN'T FIND IT NECESSARY?! THAT'S THE WOMAN I LOVE OUT THERE! GET SOME SHIPS OUT THERE TO SEE WHAT'S GOING ON!"
"Aye, sir!" And with that, the Kommander ended the transmission.
He was worried sick about the woman. He was enraged that she be placed in the situation in the first place. He was determined to keep on his mission. He wanted to ensure the safety of the Aesir Empire and all of its citizens.
Aragonn regained his composure and tried to focus on the sight of the fleet. The calming effect helped, but not knowing what was happening to Borghildr remained, a tumor in his mind. The only way to remove the tumor was to make sure she was safe.
He better be sending cruisers...
-
"Alright then, follow me, Toobek isn't too far from here," the scout informed as it lead the ships to the Capital planet.
-
Several new blueprints were created by Thravur's engineering team. Soon, these ships will hit the ship yards on Treon. The Emperor was very pleased with their designs.
"We need to get more notice in this galaxy of ours. Send ambassadors to other civilizations and nations!"
Thus, diplomatic fleets were sent out to every corner of the galaxy.
-
Residence of the First Consul
Vivaldi, Clausius, Empire of Science
Sector (-12, 24)
William Xavier was taking a short break at his desk, anonymously browsing the nets as an ordinary citizen while munching on an Aesir cookie, when Minister Baker walked into the room with an urgent look on her face. He offered her one, but she refused. Well, this must be important, if Helia's rejecting this absolute delicacy, Xavier thought.
"The diplomatic convoy from the Aesir had been making contact with us at regular intervals, but we have recently lost contact," Baker told him. "We have received communications from the Aesir that they have also experienced a similar loss of contact."
Oh, brilliant, thought Xavier. "Send some of our faster ships out there to see what's happening," he finally told Baker. "We might not arrive in time, but we must show solidarity with the Aesir.
"Also send a few of our faster ships as an escort for our diplomatic convoy, just to be safe," he continued after some thought. "You may divert several ships from the military at your best judgment."
Science Diplomatic Convoy to Aesir
Science-Aesir trade route, Wild Space
Sector (-15, 19)
The diplomatic convoy was only two sectors out from the Democratic Empire's territories when the newly added escort ships caught up to them. Now consisting of three cruisers and twelve corvettes, the convoy continued on one of the many rugged hyperspace trade routes between Aesir and Science.
Hopefully, the trip would pass without incident. If not, at least they would be slightly more prepared.
Special Task Force of the Scientific Exploration Fleet
Near territories of the Allied States of Lernaea
Sector (-15, 6)
"Our sensors detect two ships, each at about a kilometer in length, dropping out of hyperspace," a bridge officer told Bailey.
"Ah, it seems that someone has received our message," Bailey remarked, mostly to himself.
"They are hailing us," the officer stated. Immediately afterward, an alien of species unknown to the Democratic Empire appeared on the screen facing Bailey, as per standard Exploration Fleet first contact protocol.
"Greetings," Bailey said. "I am Director-General Kenne Bailey of the Scientific Exploration Fleet, exploring the galaxy on behalf of the Democratic Empire of Rationalist Science. We picked up some signs of a strong civilization south of the Aesir Empire and decided to take a look."
-
In Orbit Of Toobek
As Romulan Diplomatic Temporary Task Force 12 entered the orbit of Toobek, the Caelum was hailed by the Aeterna Venatora on an encrypted channel.
"Admiral Pistrix! I formally request permission to join Task Force 12 for the duration of this mission." Major Telsnen stated officially.
"Granted. You may remain in your position, and we will join you momentarily. We are preparing the embassy construction materials and transport tugs. This operation should not take too long, I hope. I must get back to Romulus for... urgent business." Admiral Pistrix replied, rather vaguely on arriving on his reason for leaving. Clearly he's plotting something then, Major Telsnen thought. The empire would function much more effectively if people like him weren't constantly playing politics within the military meritocracy.
"Very well, Admiral. Would you like to hail the planet?"
"I will immediately. Pistrix out. Comm, hail the planet Toobek! Greetings! This is the Romulan Diplomatic Task Force sent by the Emperor of Romulus to establish official diplomatic communications with the people of New Witchmond on behalf of the People and Senate of our Empire. I am Admiral Pistrix. May I have permission to send down Ambassador Zentren and the rest of our diplomatic personnel?"
-
Many looked up, both terrified and amazed, at the diplomatic fleet. Ben Danation received the hail and responded "Yes, Romulans, you may land."
-
After the militarization policy was enacted, the Royal Duma took charge of the military. They started electing more high command and organizing the ranking system. They also added a database for all troops. The Duma decided that they would expand towards the Wintrean Remnants, for the Core Worlds are of strategic importance. Slowly the fleets made their way towards the center, expanding across systems unlike before. However, Acaria lacked diplomats in many civilizations that were supposedly in the Galaxy. The only contacts they currently had was the Remnant, the Romulan Star Empire, and New Witchmond. They decided to send a diplomatic fleet to some of the closest civilizations which were the Allied States of Learnaea and the United Kevarian Chain. The United Kevarian Chain was rumored to be somewhere in the northeast on Acarian Galactic Maps. They seemed to be a shady kind. People spoke of pirates or shady deals being made in the area. They decided to send a Drakonian Mercanary first under the name of Irlih'k to gain trust. On the other hand, Learnaea was relatively unknown by anyone in the Empire. Few came from that region of space. They decided to send a Diplomatic Fleet there under Ambassador Katarina Marianne.
The Government also decided to expand Acaria's interstellar communication network to the outer systems. They set up a broadcast signal as well to alert other civilizations who didn't know about the empire of its existence.
-
Captain Reyalt Krisen
Sector (-17, 17)
The frigates were caught vulnerable by the incoming torpedoes. They had been preoccupied with launching the boarding pods, and were unable to move in time to avoid the projectiles.
Krisen could do nothing but utter an oath under his breath as the weapons made their impact. He was thrown backward several feet, his head violently banging into the floor. After blacking out for several seconds, he forced himself up to assess the damage.
It was bad; according to the status map, the hull had sustained several critical breaches. The weapons systems were down as well. Now, the Zephyr was essentially a sitting duck.
The captain took a moment to look out of the cockpit before addressing the situation. The other frigate had it even worse – it had been completely ripped apart. The only intact pirate ships left were the two Xebecs, still dutifully firing off railgun rounds and jamming nearby signals (in what limited capacity they were able to). Several more boarding pods had been blown apart by incoming torpedoes; now only a select few had continued their journey, rapidly approaching the enemy frigates.
“Where is the nearest planet we can safely land?” Krisen asked, turning back around to face the pilots.
“There’s one in this system. We’re still in dire danger of being fired upon, but we probably have enough fuel… I would recommend surrender, sir.”
“Shut up,” the captain said gruffly. “I didn’t come halfway across the galaxy to surrender. Better dead than a prisoner of the Aesir. Set a course immediately.”
“…Yes sir. And what will become of our sailors in the boarding pods?”
“They’ll contact us, surely. If this ship doesn’t survive, we can send out a signal when we’ve ascertained their victory.”
Pirate Boarding Pod
Sector (-17, 17)
It was a violent journey, but the crew was still in one piece (which was more than could be said for many pods). With a final bang they tore through the underside of one of the enemy frigates.
The cramped, anxious soldiers had no sight of the ship itself, still inside their pod. They were, however, greeted by a cacophony of alarm sounds and other successful pods crashing through. After a few moments of relative silence (plenty of alarms, but no other crashing sounds), the order came for them to climb out. A door opened on one side and the soldiers poured out. Plenty more came from the other pods.
Almost immediately came the gunfire from waiting enemies. Within moments both sides were engaged in a massive shootout, railgun rounds ripping through the air and screams piercing above the alarm sounds.
Ithyr Osman Lyech
Vysenn, Koria System, Capital Sector
“Reports of a skirmish involving Kevarian pirates are coming in from the second quadrant, sir,” reported Firthis Aum, Alcar of Foreign Affairs.
“And? The business of pirates is no concern of mine,” the Ithyr replied from his seat. “Let Kagar take care of her rabble-rousers, and I’ll take care of my own.”
“It’s different this time. They’ve made an attack on an Aesir diplomatic convoy. We’re lacking further information at the moment, but this could reflect very badly on us.”
“We shall see how the Aesir react. Once this has passed, we make a formal apology for the actions of criminals.”
“The Aesir are not a forgiving people, sir. In all likelihood their anger will be directed towards us. Such a statement will do little to lessen that anger.”
“Damn it, you’re not wrong. I swear on all that I hold dear, if our beloved Pirate-Captain keeps getting us into trouble, we may finally have to bring the hammer down on her. We can’t yet, though, but soon… I’ve never been fond of her kind.
“But I’m rambling. Should it be necessary, be prepared to send diplomatic convoys to the following: the United Acarian Empires, the Romulans, and New Witchmond. I’ve marked them down for potential allies.”
“Yes, sir. We have received notification that the Acarians are already sending their own diplomatic convoy to us. That fleet will not be necessary.”
“Ah… yes. I was informed of that. Must be my old age getting to my memory. When they arrive, greet them with open arms. As much as it pains me to say it, I suspect eventually we’re going to need all the friends we can get.”
-
Aesir Diplomatic Convoy
Sector (-17, 17)
"Direct hits on both pirate frigates!" declared the tactical officer. "One enemy frigate destroyed, the other disabled! The remaining pirate frigate is trying to escape!"
"Comm, isolate the frequency used by the pirates to hail us! Pilot, bring us beside the remaining pirate frigate! Tactical, aim the lancer battery right at their reactor!"
The engineering officer spoke up. "Ma'am, our generator has vented enough energy to raise shields for a bit. We can deflect a few volleys from the smaller ships with it before having to vent again."
"Do it!"
The AFS Hrothgarr came up beside the pirate frigate and aimed her lancer battery at the pirate reactor. Shields went back up.
"I've isolated their frequency!"
"Open a channel with them."
The comm officer pressed some buttons. "Channel open"
"This is Captain Borghildr. Most of your ships are destroyed or disabled. I have a target lock on your reactor. Call your men off or die."
Aboard the frigates, Drekrekkr moved to cover the key areas; bridge, shield generator, plasma and hyperspace drives, reactor, and the landing bay. Most went to the corridors leading to the bridge and engine rooms to set up traps and ambushes. About 100 Drekrekkr aboard each frigate went to lock down the landing bays. They didn't have much time to dig themselves in before the pods breached the bay doors.
"Seal the bulkheads and depressurize the bay!" ordered the Sergeant.
The emergency bulkheads quickly moved into place and the air got sucked out of the bay. Then the pods opened up and poured out their soldiers.
"Guns hot!"
The Drekrekkr in the landing bays opened up with their autorails, gunning down all that they could. The pirates fired back, their railguns easily penetrating the Huskarl armor of the Aesir. The Drekrekkr were taking heavy losses and soon were all but wiped out in the landing bays.
-
Irlih'k arrived in the White Jewel, an AC-57d, accompanied by a ICC-31 on the outer fringes of the United Kevarian Chain.
"Open communications to their HQ." Irlih'k said to a nearby officer.
"Communications opened!"
"Hail Kevarians! This is Irlih'k speaking, a diplomat from the United Acarian Empires. We are here to establish diplomatic relations with your kind. Awaiting permission to head further."
-
Zephyr
Sector (-17, 17)
The Captain watched as the enemy transmission flared on a screen. The demand: that he give in now or die.
“Aesir scum,” he snarled at the onscreen figure. He took a moment to spit at the ground before continuing. “Both I and all my soldiers would rather die than submit to the likes of-“
A whizzing sound filled the room for a brief moment. Before Krisen could finish his sentence, he fell to the ground. Blood poured out of his mouth as he lay his head to the side. In the back of his head was a single hole, through which a bullet had gone. The room was utterly silent.
From the back of the room, a crew member proceeded forward. It was none other than the second-in-command of the ship, Loras Elich. In his right hand rested the gun that had killed the Captain.
“Stay where you are,” he commanded the crew as he continued to walk. “I command this ship now. Anyone who resists this change in command will be shot. I’ve taken one life and spared all of yours in exchange.”
No one protested. In the front of the room, the screen still showed the enemy Captain. Krisen was still breathing, although only in shorts gasps. Elich stepped in front of his dying body without so much as a glance towards it. He addressed the figure, staring emotionlessly back at him.
“I am Loras Elich, former second-in-command and now Captain of this ship. I apologize for my predecessor’s stubborn defiance; I will call off all soldiers immediately.”
Capitol Tower, Second Floor
Vysenn, Koria System, Capital Sector
The Acarian greeting flashed on a secretary’s screen, requesting permission to enter Kevarian territory.
“A diplomatic escort is being sent to greet you from a nearby sector. It should arrive within a few minutes. When it arrives, you may proceed further. We look forward to making your acquaintance,” came his reply, and he shut off the screen and attended to other work.
Pirate-Chief Esa Kagar
Onium, Kresov System, Sector (25, -3)
The planet of Onium was really a beautiful place to those accustomed to it. Dunes swept endlessly into the red horizon, and to foreigners, it looked almost uninhabited. That was, of course, not the case. Here the Sevett Pirate Guild had its headquarters, dug out far below the ground. Thousands lived in these underground areas, while above ground were only sparse mining colonies.
In these underground headquarters was Esa Kagar, a notorious figure through Kevarus and beyond for her role as head of the Guild. Rumors told of her vast mountains of wealth built on theft, black market deals, and murder. Those who knew her always treaded with caution; those who ran afoul of her were often never heard from again.
Today was not a good day for her, as one of her upper staff brought her grim news.
“Chief Kagar, one of our piracy missions has gone awry,” he solemnly reported. “Details are sketchy right now, but we know those involved. Captain Reyalt Krisen and his fleet encountered an Aesir fleet that quickly overpowered his own. The fleet was a diplomatic convoy, and I fear they will not react kindly.”
Her eyes flared. “That fucking imbecile! I don’t know who thought it was a good idea to appoint him to any mission of importance… why the hell would he go after a diplomatic convoy? If he survives this, I ought to skin him myself when he returns. I expect you’ll report to me immediately when you have any updates on the situation. How many ships were in his fleet again?”
“Five, chief. Two frigates and three xebecs. One xebec was lost, but we don’t have any further information at the moment. There is more news.”
“Of course there’s more news… always more fucking news. Go on.”
“Nothing is certain as of yet. But this situation has led to worrying statements from the Ithyr. He’s said nothing that indicates any action yet, but he’s expressed a desire to bring the fight to our Guild. Again, nothing is certain, but depending on how other nations react to this incident, this could spell very bad things for us.”
Kagar’s voice calmed, but the flare in her eyes grew angrier. This was somehow scarier than her previous manner of speaking. “The crew that sparked this disaster is going to have hell to pay if they ever make it back. As for the Ithyr… I knew this was coming eventually. He’s a senile old man, of course he doesn’t like us. I’ve had plans to address him for some time now, and soon they may finally come into action.”
-
Surface of Toobek
The Romulan Warbird Provincia Imperatora entered the atmosphere and deployed the Diplomatic Envoy Vessel, flanked by four LAAT/G Escort Gunships. Upon landing, Ambassador Zentren disembarked, flanked by no less than six Senatorial Guards.
"Greetings! I am Ambassador Zentren, may I receive directions to the closest major Government Complex? Diplomatic talks between our peoples should commence immediately. For now, my new friends, take these—gifts from your new friends the Romulan Star Empire. Complements of the Emperor himself." The famous Ambassador said, while a few of his diplomatic party began handing out fine linens and the finest jewellery of the empire to the rapidly growing crowd surrounding his vessel.
Secret Transmission to the Acarian Empire
"The Imperial High Command of the Armed Forces of the Romulan Star Empire wishes to inform you that it will not hesitate to supply its staunch allies in the Acarian Empire with whatever need is deemed necessary, military or humanitarian, to increase the position of the South-eastern Civilisations of the Wintrean Galaxy.
Sincerely,
Fleet Praetor Demera, Consul of the Imperial High Command, Armed Forces Romulan Star Empire, on behalf of the entirety of the Imperial High Command."
Excerpt From Romulan Military Grand Strategy
"Apart from the Imperial directive to control information about the Empire's capabilities under the highest secrecy, the position of the Romulan Military is that all civilisations in the South-eastern Quadrant of the Wintrean Galaxy be supplied with whatever support is necessary to protect the integrity of their borders. This has been deemed vitally important for the survival of the Empire as we know it by the Romulan Imperial High Command. Any Romulan vessels within range of any major engagement involving vessels of an ally in the South-eastern Quadrant of the Galaxy are hereby issued standing orders to aid allied fleets in any case deemed necessary by either the captain of the vessel or the Imperial Star Navy Chain of Command."
-
Diplomatic Journey to the United Kevarian Chain
Irlih'k saw the escort arrive.
"Turn on engines."
The ships started moving towards the capital.
Response to Secret Transmission
Thank you for your aid. Acaria will help you in any endeavor in the future.
Sincerely, Grand Admiral of the Fleet Aedyn Zaegun.
Zuophus
The annual festivities were soon ending. Everything was being cleaned and packed up from the exciting week. Also, the new ship blueprints were coming in and being ordered for construction. 200 ships were planned to be built, and over 2000 fighters and bombers as well. Training began in the military with ships being populated. Emperor Zemas had also received information that the Aetherius was half completed.
-
Aesir Diplomatic Convoy
Sector (-17, 17)
Captain Borghildr saw the pirate captain fall to his first mate and heard the new captain surrender. She cursed under her breath. I was hoping to kill them all...
"The two smaller pirate ships have ceased fire," tactical reported.
"Communications are back up. All frigates are reporting casualties. Pirate boarders are standing down." Comm put a hand to his ear as he listened to an incoming message. "Floti Kommand has been trying to reach us. They've sent two cruisers to our last jump exit to find us."
Borghildr took off her helmet and took a deep breath to calm herself. The battle left her with a beaten up ship and three frigates with shot up Valkyries. She won the battle, but the cost was too high for her liking.
"Comm, send Floti Kommand our current position so those cruisers can take these filth off of our hands."
Aboard the frigates, Drekrekkr disarmed the pirates and herded them into a corner of the landing bays. Guards stood watch with orders to gun down any pirates who resist.
Hours later, a large hole in space opened and spat out two Aesir cruisers. The lead captain hailed the AFS Hrothgarr.
"What happened here?"
Borghildr stood straight and kept a strong composure. "We were ambushed by five "Sevett Guild" pirate ships; two frigates and three jammers."
"I only see one frigate and two jammers," the other captain stated, crossing his arms.
"Run your scans again," ordered Borghildr. "You'll see debris from a jammer and a frigate in our trail."
The other captain nodded his head to someone offscreen then looked back a moment later with an impressed expression on his face. "One little destroyer held her own against five ships? I'm sure Floti Kommand will want to award you another medal for your collection."
"I'm sure the Jarl will want to present it himself..."
"What's your current situation?"
"Our shields are barely operable, and we have boarders being held aboard each frigate. We'll transport the prisoners to your ship with the Valkyries that are still operational."
The other captain shook his head. "I am to escort the convoy the rest of the way. You are to return to the Svartalfheim shipyards for repairing and rearming. You'll receive further instructions afterwards."
"Aye, sir. Have fun with escort duty," she said before ending transmissions. "Pilot, set a course for Svartalfheim and engage the hyperdrive."
The pilot brought the destroyer around towards the Empire and fired up the hyperdrive. A hole opened up and swallowed them into hyperspace.
Once the AFS Hrothgarr was gone, the captain hailed the frigates. "Kill the prisoners. Leave none standing."
The Drekrekkr put the pirates in lines to execute whole groups with just one round each to conserve ammo. With each shot from the autorails, an entire line fell. Each frigate soon had all prisoners dead.
"Tactical, aim the lancer batteries at the two jammers and destroy them."
The cruisers' lancer batteries turned and blasted apart the jammers with one volley.
"Comm, open a channel with the pirate frigate."
"Channel open, sir"
"This is Captain Fånnr of the Aesir Cruiser AFS Hel. You should have noticed we destroyed your means of jamming communications. You should also know that I had all of your men aboard my frigates shot. Your last ship is disabled and running a skeleton crew. And now you're facing the same fate as the rest of your men. Tell me where we can find this Sevett Guild and you will live as prisoners of the Empire. Refuse and you will live as prisoners in the afterlife. Decide now."
-
Capital Building, Industries Spirit, Avon, Avonite Enclave
Kir Darkcloak sat in the Council room considering. The reports were interesting, so far almost all of their neighbors had tried peaceful contact. It was definitely time for the Enclave to do something. At that moment, the rest of the council came in. She did not think much of most of them. Lightbringer, the over-eager beaver, ready to kill anything in sight. Marshwalker, incapable of seeing the world as anything more than a battlefield. Skyflyer, everyone's favorite stepford smiler. Flowchaser... now he was interesting. Darkcloak never would have imagined it, but he was the only one she really thought much of at all. At least he was genuine. The rest took their seats and the meeting began.
Jan Lightbringer spoke first. "So, we watched. We spied. We compiled reports. All this... "useful" information. So far, all of our neighbors seem to be alright. But I suggest we start simple, try sending out no more than 3 diplomats. Just to see how they react." Skyflyer stood up to speak next. " For once, I agree with Jan. To much, and we might seem desperate. I suggest we send 1 diplomatic ship each to the Laurentian Empire, the United Kevarian Chain and the Aesir Empire. We need friends, and this is how we get them." Marshwalker shook his head, scrapping his talons as he did so. "No. 1 diplomatic ship? Absolutely not. Thats a wonderful way to lose 3 good ships. We need everything and everyone we have. Even with Darkcloak's new ships.." Darkcloak interjected with "And at a great discount, to!" Flowchaser laughed and Marshwalker bared his sharpened teeth but bit back his response and continued ".. even with her new ships, our fleet is stretched thin and we are having trouble finding sailors for our ships. We cant afford to lose anyone and the UKC is notorious for its use of state sanctioned piracy. Do we really want them as friends?" Flowchaser stood up and spoke. "I find that unfair. The state itself does not sanction piracy. Yes, piracy is such a big part of their lives but we should at least make a peaceful overture. I vote that we follow Des's suggestion." Skyflyer nodded in agreement, Darkcloak smiled like a movie villain and voted yes as well. Marshwalker and Lightbringer gritted their fangs but nodded as well. It was decided that Skyflyer would handle diplomatic negotiations.
In orbit around Avon, Pendelton-class Cruiser AES Murphy
Admiral Fir Hanover stared at his orders in frustration. Sure, just take 3 of my escorts, remove most of their weapons and send them off to foreign space, why not?, he thought to himself. By the power of Spode, if they got their ships back in one peace he would be surprised. He chose the AES Redoubt, Conservator and The Sum Of All Zeros, captained by Kli Waverider, Gar Galvinson and Crk Bridgeman to the Aesir Empire, Laurentian Empire and the Kevarian Chain respectively. All ships had a message by Des Skyflyer on board and sat at their respective borders, broadcasting on all hailing frequencies. The diplomatic ships sat and waited...
-
Toobek Space Docks
Ben Danation, accompanied by Al Ser, looked up upon the convoy. As he walked toward the diplomats, the people around him made a path for him. "Ah hello, Romulans. Welcome to Toobek, more specifically, the city of Gypite. We all hope that you enjoy your stay." Ben announced halfway through the crowd. "Come, our diplomatic sector is this way." He made a gesture for the diplomats to follow him.
Scout outside of Lernaean borders
The scout found itself near borders of an unkown empire. It attempted to send a message, "Hello, we are Witchian scouts exploring the galaxy, what glorious empire have we ran into?"
-
Reconnoitre Admiral Victus
"Aye, we do hail from Lernaea. And you are from the Aesir Empire, correct? I believe it is time to reestablish communication and trade between our two empires and restore it to what it once was. How shall we proceed?"
Diplomatic Convoy to Science
"Director-General Kenne Bailey, I am Charles Garriot, Director of Space Activities for Lernaea. It seems that our ships arrived faster than scheduled. Thus, I will turn you over to Chet Donovan," replied Garriot. He then transferred the comms to the diplomat and sighed in relief. The diplomatic work would be left up to the expert now.
"Greetings! I am Mr. Donovan. I am sure that you know that we are approaching your ships. Requesting permission to dock."
ISA Headquarters
Just as Garriot turned away from the comms, his right hand man turned and whispered into his ear. A couple seconds later, he turned to Morrow. "Sir, incoming transmission. They claim to be Witchians. I'll send a convoy immediately. Is there anything else to keep in mind besides Keep the peace?"
"You summed it up," responded Morrow.
"Ok, they'll arrive shortly," stated Garriot.
-
Special Task Force of the Scientific Exploration Fleet
Sector (-15, 6)
Ah, so they have already sent out a shuttle, Bailey thought. He preferred to send a shuttle out himself, but both had happened before in his career.
"We will send your shuttle the docking information immediately, Your Excellency," Bailey transmitted to Donovan. He then told the others on the bridge, "Prepare Docking Bay 2 for the arrival of this Lernaean diplomat and send their shuttle relevant docking instructions."
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
Sector (-17, 18)
The Observation Task Force was close to where the Aesir convoy was last spotted when they received new information from the High Command that the convoy had been attacked by pirates. They had since decimated the pirates and were continuing on their way with reinforcements. The Task Force was to wait for them to arrive and to offer any assistance (though High Command doubted they would need any).
After a few hours waiting in a desolate system, the task force observed a convoy of starships dropped out of hyperspace, which was identified as the Aesir diplomatic convoy.
Captain Tobo Mott began broadcasting to the diplomatic convoy, "Hello, Aesir friends. This is Captain Mott of the Scientific Imperial Fleet. Your government graciously allowed us to send an observation force after we lost contact with your convoy. Although we have obviously arrived rather late, we offer any assistance you may require."
Science Diplomatic Convoy to Laurentian Empire
Sector (-1, 20)
After a considerable time of travel in the rugged hyperspace routes between Science and Laurentus (though fortunately, no pirates), the Science diplomatic convoy arrived at the Laurentian Empire's borders. The Science ambassador, Robert Forrester, opened communications with a nearby border control station, asking the Laurentians for further instructions.
Science Diplomatic Convoy to Aesir Empire
Sector (-15, 17)
Similarly, the convoy to the Aesir Empire was nearing its destination. As it approached Aesir territory, the Science ambassador, Morris Glass, sent a message to the Aesir announcing their arrival.
-
Jan Lightbringer's Office, Industries Spirit, Avon, Avonite Enclave
They were expanding. Claiming more territory. This worried Jan. If their ... kindly neighbors were expanding, so should the Enclave. He did not trust them, did not think that they would let the Enclave be in their vulnerable state, but the other councilors thought that a purely military focus would be unwise. At least he had convinced them to approve a colonial expedition. Which led him to this meeting with Kir Darkcloak. She sat across from him, waiting for him to speak. He stared back. She had far more influence and power than Jan thought she deserved. The self serving coward had played both the Shepard's Church and the Conclave for her own self serving benefit. The only reason Avon was still here was because of her, he would give her that much, but she still had no business on the council in his mind. Jan leaned back and began to speak, "I need your help, Kir. Someone has to help organize the colonial expedition, scientists, explorers, soldiers, the lot. You've had dealings in that department, right?" Kir laughed and replied, "Yes, I can help you. Its a question of science, science and progress. A colonial expansion is no easy feat." She pulled out a map and indicated 10 sectors to the West of Avon, toward the Laurentian Empire. " This area is ripe for expansion. Now, I'm just guessing at numbers and figures, but if we use about 100 ships we can have colonies and claims for the Enclave in a month. But we should expect losses. Disease, local wildlife and even suicide." Jan sighed. It would be beneficial but costly. They had no choice, though. "Ok, Kir. Do your thing."
The First Enclave Colonial Fleet, AES Pillar of Justice, in orbit around Avon
Admiral Jur Trhpanner sat on the bridge of the Pillar of Justice, the flagship of the Colonial Fleet. Admiral Trhpanner opened intercoms to every ship in his fleet. "All captains, this is Admiral Jur Trhpanner. We have been given a critical mission for the good of the Enclave. With courage at our side and the wisdom of Spode behind us we will prevail. Spode watch over us all."
-
Zephyr
Sector (-17, 17)
As a hardened pirate, Captain Elich had watched – and taken part in - countless moral atrocities, but this was on another level entirely. His entire crew massacred? For a moment he could not even speak, he was so shocked. For once in his life, he felt as though he held the moral high ground.
The options were to betray the Guild and live as prisoner, or to stay loyal and die. It seemed darkly funny to him now that he had just killed his friend Reyalt for denying the Aesir what they wanted; now he intended to do exactly the same. If he gave up the Guild, what was to say his captors wouldn’t kill him anyway? They had already shown a complete lack of honor. And even if they kept him alive, he would be invoking the wrath of the Pirate-Chief Kagar… he would most likely find himself dead in due time anyway.
No one was going to leave this ship alive. The Captain knelt down to his predecessor’s corpse and took his pistol out of its holster. He then walked a few feet over to the control console, where he ordered the pilot to stand aside. He looked up, directly into the eyes of Captain Fånnr staring back at him.
“This is what I think of your offer,” Elich calmly said. He pressed a button and watched as the windows flew open. Those nearest were sucked out immediately. Knowing he had only a moment to give a final gesture to the enemy, he raised both guns: one to the screen the enemy Captain was displayed on, and one to his own head. He fired both weapons simultaneously, falling to the floor as the screen went static.
Vysenn, Koria System, Capital Sector
The Acarian convoy lowered itself onto a landing pad outside the Vellisen Palace, a massive building just a few kilometers from the Capitol Tower. They were escorted into the Palace by the Kevarians that had accompanied them here. Once inside, they were guided along to a room on the right. In that room was a long table, at one end of which said a lone woman. Two armed guards stood behind her.
“Greetings,” she said warmly. “I am Aminia Kurn, Kevarian envoy to the United Acarian Empires. I assume that would be who you represent? Please, take a seat.”
-
"Thank you Aminia." replied Irlih'k as he sat down.
"Yes, I am the diplomat from the United Acarian Empires. Now, the Empire seeks a peaceful and friendly relationship. Also, your civilization is in the south-east quadrant in the Galactic Map, which puts you on our good books. We seek to protect all in this area. I assure you, it will be very beneficial in the long-run."
"Our current proposal is a trade agreement, open borders, and a declaration of friendship. We may consider an alliance if the relationship increases positively."
Meanwhile on Treon Military Base
Dr.Khador was observing his research team's work. They recently began on an interesting project to improve Acaria's capability on Ground Assaults/Defenses. The vehicle would be an armored walker, capable of going up 180 degree cliffs, with the new powerful solar lances technology they discovered. A miniature prototype was being tested.
-
Vellisen Palace
Vysenn, Koria System, Capital Sector
“We in the Chain are very appreciative of your offer,” Kurn replied. “We too see our nations as natural friends. All of your offers are accepted, and we look forward to working with you further in the future. I would also like to request, on the Chain’s behalf, an exchange of embassies in our capitals.”
Kevarian Escort
Sector (22, 3)
A small convoy of Kevarian ships rushed toward the northwestern border of the Chain, where an Avonite ship had been hovering for some time now. The signals the foreign ship was broadcasting had been blocked due to a technical error at the local communications building. Luckily, they had been rectified relatively quickly. The captain of one of the Kevarian ships broadcasted to the Avonites.
“Our sincerest apologies for the delay. We will be escorting you to our capital, the journey should not be long.” The convoy began leading the Avonite ship to Vysenn.
-
AES The Sum Of All Zeros, Sector 22,3
Captain Crk Bridgeman was sitting at his station when the Kevarian convoy arrived. At first he assumed they were pirates and was about to start fleeing when the message came through. He sighed in relief and opened opened a frequency.
"Thank you for the escort, and thank you for the apology. My name is Captain Crk Bridgeman, in charge of the AES The Sum Of All Zeros. Spode be with us on this journey."
The ship followed the convoy all the way Vysenn. When they reached the planet, Captain Bridgeman handed the message from the Enclave to the appropriate people. The message read as such:
"Greetings on behalf of the Avonite Enclave. My name is Councilor Des Skyflyer of the Transitional Council. The Enclave would like to extend to you, the United Kevarian Chain, an offer of friendship. As a sign of goodwill, the diplomatic ship sent to you has a cargo of some of our finest Spices, the Blue coloured ones are used as a relaxing sleep aid, the Green ones are used for our finest mint tea and the Purple one is used to make a sweet flavoured pudding delicacy on our planet. We offer this gift to you as a sign of good will and hope for future co-operation. We hope this will be the beginning of a beautiful relationship and trade partnership between our great nations. Thank you, and may the wisdom of the great Spode be ever with you."
-
AFS Hel
Sector (-17, 17)
Captain Fånnr watched as the pirates killed themselves. He knew there was a chance of this, but he needed to risk it. He needed to find the Guild. Fånnr gave the order to destroy the heaping wreck of a pirate ship. The cruiser turned to have her main lancer face the sad ship and fired the stream of plasma, burning clean through to the reactor and blowing it to smithereens.
"We're done here. Tell Captain Vogđ to take his cruiser and the convoy the rest of the way. We'll be leaving them." The comm officer sent the message out. "Pilot, as soon as they leave, set a course to the Laurentian Empire and engage."
The second cruiser and the convoy disappeared into hyperspace, and the AFS Hel turned east and disappeared into hyperspace as well.
Aesir Diplomatic Convoy
Sector (-17, 18)
The convoy dropped out of hyperspace and was immediately hailed by Science vessels asking if they could assist. Captain Vogđ took off his helmet to appear friendly.
"You can be our guides and take us to our destination. We appreciate your help.
"I hope you don't mind sitting here a little longer while our hyperdrive units recharge. We'll be assessing the damage from the attack and making necessary repairs. You're more than welcome to meet our diplomat though. I hear nothing but good things about Ulfír."
AFS Hrothgarr
Shipyards above Svartalfheim Craft World
Sector (-17, 13)
Captain Borghildr arrived late to the shipyard because of fluctuations in her ship's power grid. Upon arriving, she was given permission to dock at one of the repair stations. Repairs were started immediately, and all crew not essential to the repairs were given leave to do whatever. They could procreate for all she cared.
Borghildr retired to her quarters and had the system in her room take off her armor for her, leaving her wearing just her bodysuit which she promptly got out of. Exhausted from the battle and the trip home, she flopped face first onto her bed.
It wasn't long before she had an incoming call. She groaned and slowly got up to answer it. It was Jarl Aragonn sitting in the captain's chair aboard his ship.
"My Jarl."
"Captain Borghildr.....are you naked?"
Borghildr's expression didn't change because she didn't care if anyone saw her naked. It never bothered her. "Yes, sir. I'm naked in my quarters. To what do I owe this call?"
"I heard you were attacked by five pirate ships and valiantly fought them off. I wanted to see if you were hurt at all."
She backed away from the camera to allow him to see her full body then spun around to show him there wasn't anything except the scars of previous battles. "I'm perfectly fine. All I need is a good night's rest to wash away my exhaustion."
Aragonn looked amused by her display. "It's good to see you're fine." Then it looked as though something were troubling him. "I wish you had taken my offer to be at my side. You wouldn't have been attacked like that."
"And miss out on another victory with a grand story to boast with?" The captain chuckled, smiling a bit. "Not a chance."
"Very well. But if you change your mind, my offer still stands."
"I'll keep that in mind. Borghildr out." She ended the call. I can finally get some rest now... She got back into bed and pulled her heated blanket over herself. She let the heat relax her muscles and drifted to sleep.
Captain Bogdr
AFS Ratatoskr
"I will notify my superiors of Lernaea," the captain told him before nodding at his comm officer. Looking back at the captain on his screen, he said, "I'll stay here with you until I get word back from them.
"So, how have your people fared since the War?"
Space Station Eir
Sector (-18, 14)
The comm officer picked up the Science diplomatic fleet communication and sent them a message welcoming them to the Empire and to wait for their Aesir escort. Orders were given to a battlecruiser to intercept and escort.
She then picked up the transmission from the Avonite diplomatic ship. She was surprised to hear it but followed SOP and reported it the her CO. Her CO gave the order to respond kindly.
"This is the Aesir space station Eir. We read you. We're sending two warships to your location to escort you to the proper location. Further instructions will be provided upon their arrival."
The officer then proceeded to issue the orders to a pair of destroyers.
-
The AES Redoubt
Captain Kli Waverider hated this stupid assignment. Diplomacy? He was a soldier, damn it. He read the message from the Aesir station and sighed. This would be boring. He sat back and waited for the escort...
-
The scout received a message explaining that it was at Learnean borders. Soon after, a convey met up with it and led them to the capital planet.
-
Vellisen Palace
"I agree to this exchange of embassies. Thank you for this meeting. May our nations prosper and lightspeed."
-
Vellisen Palace
Vysenn, Koria System, Capital Sector
The Avonite diplomat had also been directed to the Palace, just a few rooms away from the Acarians. Diplomat Torminn Vorinthi had been assigned to receive Captain Bridgeman, and he was handed a letter from the other empire. He took a moment to read it and returned his gaze to the Captain.
"We thank you for your kind offerings, and gladly accept your offer of friendship. In return, we would like to offer you a cargoload of precious gems from across the Chain. We can have ships sent out by tomorrow morning to deliver them, if you accept. Additionally, we have interest in establishing embassies in each other's capitals. If you and your realm agree to that, we can begin making arrangements immediately."
"The Chain extends our best wishes to your people," Kurn said to the Acarian diplomat. "We will have a convoy to escort you safely to the edge of our borders, and preparations for embassy construction will begin immediately."
-
The City of Gypite
Toobek
"Thank you. We are looking forward to better know your people." the Ambassador replied. He then motioned for a couple dozen advisers to follow him to the Diplomatic Sector. After walking a bit away from the crowds, he asked the man accompanying him, "So you are Ben Danation, leader of New Witchmond then? A pleasure to meet you."
Romulan High Command
Romulus
Praetor Demera paced from one end of the meeting chamber to the other. "Praetor Relatrex! What is the status of the 2nd Fleet!?" she demanded.
"Armed and fully operational for long-term operations, as you commanded, your Excellency. We are prepared to execute General Order 233 at your command. However, might I suggest that rather than simply being attached to aid the Acarians, that we make a short stop and expand the Northern Border of the Empire, as well?" Praetor Relatrex responded.
The other Praetors nodded in agreement. "Praetor Relatrex makes a good point, your Excellency. I concur with the expansion of the empire northward. Not only would it be a decent routine combat exercise, it would provide a most excellent demonstration of the combat capabilities of the newest batch of legionaries."
Praetor Demera stopped pacing, clearly annoyed that Relatrex had suggested an improvement, and spoke "Very well. But be sure to demonstrate the full power of the Romulan Star Navy. Hold nothing back. Do not hesitate, and after subduing the new lands proceed directly to the Acarian Empire. Our aid is already long overdue there, as they will soon begin offensives against the Wintrean Remnant, if the intelligence provided to us by Commandant D'Deridex is accurate, and not just some political ploy—which I doubt."
"As you command, your Excellency." Relatrex bowed, and left the room. He strode directly out into the airfield behind Fleet Headquarters, and boarded his shuttle. "Take me to the Vindex immediately!" he ordered his pilot, and the ship took off into the darkening sky.
Excerpt from Senator Densek's Address to the Senate
Capitoline Senatorial Complex
Romulus
"...And as these trends of expansion continue in the galaxy around us, it is imperative that we defend our borders and our allies in the Southeast Quadrant! The Wintrean Remnant has recovered and once more looks outward, toward the rest of the galaxy, hungry to enslave us again! This cannot happen! We must strike their heart, swiftly and lethally, to ensure that they never threaten the Senate and People of the Empire ever again!
Fellow Senators, this is why I have created the bill on the floor, that appropriates more funding to our Imperial Defence. If we should have pass this into the law of the Empire, our forces would be the strongest that the galaxy has ever seen. For the sake of the Empire, let us pass this legislation into law. Pro Imperio Romulano!!"
-
Velisen Palace, Vysenn, Koria system
Captain Bridgeman nodded and replied " Thank you. The Enclave is grateful for both your hospitality and your offer and we gladly accept. May the wisdom of Spode guide us."
-
"You are correct," Ben responded, "although my second in command, Al Ser, never told of you name, may I have it?" he questioned as he led the group the diplomatic sector's main discussion building.
-
Imperial Palace, Zuophus
Emperor Zemas was glad militarization got through. Once more, glory shall come to Acaria. Most of Acaria's history was forgotten by outsiders and their prestige slowly went down. Now, it is time to change this. Zemas sent out Imperial Order 001, which was to send the fleet and army towards the Wintreath Remnants. They shall slowly proceed to capture any sectors on the way as well. The new ships were an added boon and the fleet were planning to add hyperlanes along the way. Of course part of the fleet would remain here to protect Acaria's own sectors.
The new flagship was almost complete. It was 2/3 complete and would soon be sent on its way with the fleet as well. Zemas was proud of the Aetherius that they were constructing. A monumental feat from Acarians who advanced in technology and built great structures.
Soon, the order arrived at High Command.
Imperial HQ, Zuophus
Grand Admiral Aedyn Zaegun was notified of his orders. He would begin his advance immeadiately. He was transported to his ship, The Cunning Dragon, which was a new Anastasia Capital Class Ship.
-
Shuttle to Special Task Force of the Scientific Exploration Fleet
Sector (-15, 6)
"Receiving docking instructions. Prepare to land," exclaimed the pilot.
Chet took a deep breath and made sure he looked presentable. Upon landing, he stood and took his first step onto a foreign ship.
Reconnoitre
Admiral Victus
"After the war, we lost contact with all other civilizations. Lernaea wasn't in much of the conflict, but our communications systems didn't seem to work. Now, we realize that everyone changed their frequencies as to not be spied on during the war," replied the admiral. "We waited for the war to end and then decided to branch out. How have you fared?"
Convoy Heading back to Protheus.
"Message Morrow. Let him know we are on the way back with a Witchian scout," whispered the diplomat. "Discreetly. It isn't our protocol to bring people to our capital immediately."
"Yes, Your Excellency," replied the pilot.
"It is against protocol to bring you to our capital planet immediately. Is it fine if we do discussions on board?" transmitted the diplomat to the Witchian scout.
ISA Headquarters
"Sir, they are bringing the Witchians back here. Apparently is was requested by the scout," exclaimed Garriot.
"That's not our protocol!" shouted Morrow.
"I know," replied Garriot.
"Lock down most systems. Make sure no important intel gets away if they do arrive. As of now, they are not our friends or foe," replied Morrow.
-
"Although in our culture, we bring diplomatic spacecraft to our capital planet, it is in our code of honor to respect your cultural policies, so yes, we may discuss on board," the scout replied. The scout and the convoy got close enough to now see the capital planet of Learnea. They looked upon the planet, and asked one of the ships in the convoy, "Do you mind informing us of the name of this planet?"
-
"Thank you. We've been... cautious since the war. The name of our capital is Protheus. What is yours?"
-
"The capital planet of our republic is Toobek, with the capital city being Gypite," the scout answered, "and on the topic of war, how is your oppinion of and political stance with the Wintrean remnant?"
-
Council Room, Industries Spirit, Avon, Avonite Enclave
"This is a big decision. We cannot rush it." Des Skyflyer, as usual, tried to urge caution. The rest of the Council was discussing sending a diplomatic ship to the Wintreath Remnant. The bastards that stood idly by as her people tore each other apart. She would not be ignored this time. "They could be hostile! Who knows what they want?" Jan Lightbringer nodded and spoke " You're right. No one knows anything about the Remnant. So what better way to find out then through diplomacy. We don't need to be best friends, Des, we just need to talk." Des leaned back and sighed in frustration. Jan and Art were on the same side, Kir had Irk doing whatever she wanted. The way those two got along astounded Des. She shook her head and nodded. " I'm outvoted, so fine, send the ship. Jan, you do the greeting message. " Jan nodded and the meeting broke up.
AES Strawberry Swing, Border of the Wintreath Remnant
Admiral Ark Innsmoth stood nervously. It had been years since anyone made contact with the Remnant. Who knows what they would do? He signaled the Coms Officer to start broadcasting the diplomatic message on all channels...
-
Office of the First Consul
Sector (-12, 24)
"Reports from various traders and other sources seem to show that the Wintrean Remnant is finally ending their policy of isolationism," Baker told Xavier. "It would appear that they may now be more inclined to diplomatic relations."
"Very well then," Xavier replied. "Send a diplomatic mission to their territories. We shall see how they react."
The next day, two cruisers and eight corvettes departed the Democratic Empire, en route to the ancient Frozen Realm.
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
Sector (-17, 18)
Captain Mott nodded at the Aesir captain's words. He didn't have much to do in this waiting time anyway. "I would be pleased to meet the Ambassador."
Special Task Force of the Scientific Exploration Fleet
Sector (-15, 6)
"Welcome aboard the SES Actualization," Bailey greeted the Lernaeans as they exited their shuttle. A small honor guard of Fleet security stood to the side. "We already have a conference hall prepared for discussions. Would you like some refreshments before we begin?"
Science Diplomatic Convoy to Aesir Empire
Sector (-15, 16)
The diplomatic convoy received the greetings from the Aesir. Before long, an Aesir battlecruiser dropped out of hyperspace. Some of the military escort now turned and left, returning to the Democratic Empire. Meanwhile, Ambassador Glass opened a communications channel with the battlecruiser, requesting further directions.
Science Diplomatic Convoy to Wintreath
Sector (-6, 7)
Owing to the poor quality of the hyperspace routes and relatively long distances, it took nearly a month before the convoy reached the borders of the Wintrean Remnant. As the convoy dropped out of hyperspace into a system near Wintreath's borders, Ambassador Roger Murphy began broadcasting a modified first contact message to the Frozen Realm.
-
The City of Gypite
Toobek
"Certainly, Mr. Danation. I am Surel Zentren, the ambassador from the people of Romulus to your people. I have great experience in the arena of diplomacy, and my primary duty is to establish good relations between our two peoples." Zentren paused, "So this is your diplomatic complex? It is very beautiful. Some of this vegetation rivals that in the Garden of the Emperor! Your government must appreciate beauty and culture as much as our own!"
As they entered the main discussion building, the Ambassador shifted tone a bit, "So... as we are now entering the discussion building... what shall we discuss? Perhaps a trade agreement or technological exchange?" he questioned politely.
Border of the Acarian Empire
"Hail the Acarian High Command. Extend greetings from Fleet Praetor Relatrex and the entire Romulan Second Fleet." Praetor Relatrex ordered his communications staff. "Also inform them that the Second Fleet stands ready to integrate into Acarian Forces massing in anticipation of Imperial Order 001."
-
Acarian Interstellar Communications Military Network
High Command was being hailed by their close allies, the Romulan Star Empire. They sent the message through to the Grand Admiral.
"We eagerly await your arrival. Progress has already started going to the Remnant. Our soldiers are being trained by conquering systems along the way. Thank you for your assistance, may our nations prosper. Lightspeed."
-
Romulan Second Fleet
Acarian Empire Space
"By your command, Acarian High Command. We are proceeding on a course rendezvous with your primary fleet to reinforce them before they enter Remnant space." Praetor Relatrex replied. He then hailed the rest of the Second Fleet, "This is the Fleet Praetor speaking. We have received permission to enter Acarian Space to rendezvous with the Imperial Fleet heading for the Wintreath Remnant. All vessels shall commence battle drills immediately and match the heading of the flagship. I want all vessels operating at top efficiency when we join the fleet! Pro Imperio Romulano! Relatrex out."
-
"A trade route sounds lovely, Mr. Zenten." Ben responded, "My people are definitely intrigued by your empire's jewelry, perhaps you could trade that for something of our possession. Your people might enjoy some of our vegetation, as of you mentioned it's beauty earlier."
-
Diplomatic Sector
The City of Gypite,
Toobek New Witchmond
"Certainly! We shall request more shipments of our jewellery in exchange for your very intriguing species of plants. We are always looking for ways to improve the beauty of our empire. And apart from those two commodities, is there any metal or other product that we can conduct other trades in? I'm sure not everyone in our empires enjoys only plants and jewellery." Ambassador Zentren paused and smiled, a bit amused by his speech. "Shall we send staff to negotiate the specifics of this trade agreement? We can then move on to more important matters, perhaps discussions of the differences between our cultures."
-
"That's a splendid idea, I'll call down some of my tradesmen to offer some deals. I'll have some of the royal staff lead your people to the trade sector." Ben lead Zentren to a discussion room, "Here, take a seat. I will be back in a moment." He went onto the glass balcony and announced, "Attention citizens! The trade sector is currently open to anyone looking to offer goods! I repeat, the trade sector is currently open to anyone looking to offer goods!" Ben came back in and took a seat. "Now, is there anything in particular that you would like to discuss first?"
-
Aesir Diplomatic Convoy
Sector (-17, 18)
Captain Vogđ nodded. "You may dock with the frigate AFS Draþor."
One of the frigates moved away from the others a bit to identify itself as the one to dock with.
"And I apologize for not introducing myself. I am Captain Vogđ of the Aesir cruiser AFS Freya."
Aesir Battlecruiser AFS Þur
Sector (-15, 16)
Captain Husvraed sat up in his seat, displaying his pride at commanding one of the most powerful ships in the Floti. "You will follow us to the outskirts of a system in the northwestern part of sector (-16, 14). There, we will meet with the main battle fleet where your ambassador may stay aboard the Aesir longboat AFS Jörmungandr with Jarl Aragonn. Is this acceptable?"
Captain Bogdr
AFS Ratatoskr
Bogdr chuckled. "I'm afraid I'm not authorized to provide you with any specifics for reasons of security, but I can say the War was devastating for us. But if all goes well, as it has been going, we'll be back to our previous strength in no time."
The comm officer looked at the Captain. "Diplomatic relations with Lernaea habe been approved. A diplomat is being sent."
"Looks like we're going to be friends once again, Admiral."
Aesir Escort Cruisers
Near the AES Redoubt
A large hole opened leading into hyperspace that spat out two Aesir cruisers, weapons charged. A quick scan was done to determine if it would be an ambush, results ending in a negative. The leading Captain opened communications with the AES Redoubt.
"We will lead you to the outskirts of a system in the northwestern part of sector (-16, 14) where you may stay in our main battle fleet with Jarl Aragonn. Is this acceptable?"
-
AES Redoubt
Captain Kli Waverider smirked and responded with the message "Thank you for your escort, yes that would be lovely. May Spode guide us" This whole diplomacy thing was still foreign to him but the Enclave had hoped his blunt mannerisms would resonate with the Aesir. The Redoubt followed the escorts to sector -16,14. When they reached the Fleet, Captain Waverider waited for the Jarl's first move...
The Tauscher Tavern ,Industries Spirit, Avon, Avonite Enclave
Mercenary leader Ryy Sharptalon, leader of the Talon Militia, looked at the offer from his new client. High risk but high reward. He put it down and smiled. Soon he would be back in the battlefield, that adrenaline rush would be back. He wanted to feel it again, he needed to. For now, drinking himself to sleep would keep the memories away. He leaned back and turned to his XO "Get the ship. Set a course for the Kevarian Chain. We've got a job to do." He turned back to his drink and laughed. If only the people knew what one of their precious councilors was paying him to do....
-
Acarian Fleet
"Once again, we thank you for our assistance. We shall show the Remnant what they had coming."
The fleet began on moving through sectors, expanding outwards and heading north.
Overview of Acarian Actions
The Aetherius was almost done. Top tier personnel were being notified to fill up its positions. Everything was going according to plan. Engineers are still working on new blueprints, but progress has slowed. Navigators set up new hyperlanes for trade. Some sectors/planets were conquered, others by diplomatic action. Some were even bribed due to corrupt officials. But, the United Acarian Empires was gaining glory. The Army's ranks were filling up and they were trained by the sectors they conquered on the way to the remnant. Luxurious goods came from and went to the United Kevarian Chain due to the new found friendship. Population was also growing. However, once more the gears of war starting churning, hopefully leading Acaria to a good age.
-
Convoy Orbiting Protheus
"Honestly, most people won't bat an eye if you mention the Remnant. We only just started to develop a fruitful relation with the Aesir before we were forced off the grid by the war. We never really got a chance to really meet Wintreath in the first place," replied the diplomat. "Now come. Let us discuss things in the conference hall, shall we not? I had my people prepare the room."
After settling in the room, he asked, "What are your peoples' opinions?"
SES Actualization
Sector (-15, 6)
"That would be splendid, thank you!" responded the diplomat.
After settling in the conference hall, he stated, "Now let's talk business."
Reconnoitre
Admiral Victus
"Friends indeed," replied the admiral as a smile spread across his face.
ISA Headquarters
"Sir, we have detected a fleet entering our systems. They've identified themselves as Acarians," announced Garriott. "A couple ships have been sent to meet them and discuss diplomatic proceedings."
"Very well," replied Morrow.
"Oh, and Admiral Victus checked in. He said that the Aesir are sending over a diplomat," stated Garriott.
"Prepare a reception."
-
The scout, never being fond of diplomatic actions, entered the room. "Wow, this place is wonderful. Your architecture is truly incredible." He paused for a moment then responded, "Although our people once lived in their lands, ever since we left they denied access from our people, including tourists and historians, to see our ancestor's war memorials, from when Witchmond was part of the Wintreath. These actions has lead our rulers to despise the empire, and hopefully, we could someday raid them, possibly destroy the empire even further, and come back with many of these memorials and other riches for our republic. That, my friend, would be a glorious day for us." The scout sat back in his seat. "So, is there anything that you would like to discuss such as trade, relations, or just of our knowledge of the galaxy?"
-
Stortingsbygningen, Frostlake City
Frosthold Planet, Frozen Realm of Wintreath
(-3, 3)
Excerpt from address by Monarch Wintermoot XCVIII to a joint session of the Storting
Times change, and so should our nation.
The Frozen Realm has stood since antiquity, for millennia untold. Yet, the past few centuries have been a trying a difficult time. Now, in this new age, we must strive forward to create a new era of peace.
I ask you all, is mindless war truly the best option? For the past few centuries, we have hidden from this question, much as we have hidden ourselves in the Core regions. It has been our policy, since the end of the Third Galactic Civil War, to refuse to recognize those who seceded from us or expanded into our past territories. But now, we truly are reaching out to the greater galaxy once more, and so our policies must change.
If we truly wish to return greater glory to the Frozen Realm, we cannot mindlessly wage war against all those we come across. It would only bring ruin, as the so-called "rebels" unite against us. No, we must recognize that these are true nations that have risen in our absence. We welcome them to join us, but if they refuse, there is no point is declaring them as traitors.
Times are changing, and we should be embracing the future, not wistfully gazing at the past. Thus, I urge the Storting to repeal the Rightful Claims Act.
Excerpt from speech by Speaker Villemo Leirvik of the 2,074th Underhusen
His Most Royal Majesty asks us to embrace these traitors as friends. Is that truly what we want?
Wintreath has stood for countless ages, and we do not bow down to secessionist scum. Our Realm has been in countless situations like this before. We recovered from the century of chaos in the Second Galactic Civil War, and we shall do so again.
Our Monarch believes that suppressing these rebels once and for all would bring ruin upon us. This is utter nonsense. Since our rise as a galactic power, Wintreath has had the most powerful military in the galaxy. This has not changed. We need merely to reach out and crush these traitors.
His Majesty wants to forge a new peace. Let it be one where we lead the way, rather than one where we bow down to those who betrayed us.
Meeting of the Riksråd, Frosthold Castle
Frostlake City, Frosthold Planet
(-3, 3)
"As you all know, I have reestablished the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in light of recent events," Wintermoot told the Riskråd. "Let us welcome the newly-appointed Jarl Henrik Jensen."
Jarl Jensen stood and began to speak. "Thank you, Your Most Royal Majesty. As most of you are aware, the conservatives have defeated the repeal bill. Consequently we cannot legally establish relations with other galactic powers. However, we have a way around that.
"We have already established the Frosthold Representative Institute, a non-profit private organization. With support from the Foreign Affairs Ministry, it will establish Frosthold Representative Offices in other nations to represent the Monarchy's cultural and economic interests." Jensen concluded, "We expect to begin exchanging de facto embassies with other nations within the next few months."
"Thank you, Jarl," Wintermoot said. "It is unfortunate that the Underhusen is now representing the most extremist of citizens. As for avoiding war with other nations, the Underhusen can demand that we send military forces, but any such acts will be easily defeated in the Overhusen. Furthermore, as both Commander-in-Chief and Monarch, I will not authorize any military actions against potential allies."
Northeastern border of Wintreath
(6, 5)
The Wintreath Border Guard lieutenant picked up the broadcast from the "Avonite Enclave." Unsure of what to do, he contacted his superiors. Several hours later, a response arrived, telling him to make peaceful contact and await the arrival of a State Ministry official. The lieutenant began broadcasting a response, stating, "This is the Wintreath Border Guard. Welcome to the Frozen Realm. A representative of the Monarch is currently en route, and should arrive shortly."
Northwestern border of Wintreath
(-7, 6)
On the other side of the Frozen Realm, another Border Guard lieutenant experienced a similar event. After receiving broadcasts from the "Democratic Empire of Rationalist Science," she was given instructions to contact them peacefully. She responded to the broadcast, also stating, "This is the Wintreath Border Guard. Welcome to the Frozen Realm. A representative of the Monarch is currently en route, and should arrive shortly."
-
Diplomatic Complex
City of Gypite
Toobek, New Witchmond
"Certainly!" replied the Ambassador. He then continued, "We could allow open borders for tourism and to facilitate greater economic cooperation. I am certain that both of our business communities would enjoy the addition of more persons to their respective spheres of operations!"
Zentren lowered his voice, "We also have received authorisation from the Tal Shiar allowing us to conduct more... secretive negotiations, if you are open to the idea. Intelligence sharing would benefit the security of us both, I believe."
Combined Romulan-Acarian Fleet
North of Acarian Empire
(en route to Wintreath Remnant Space)
Fleet Praetor Relatrex looked out across the massive Armada moving toward the galactic core. The journey was mostly uneventful, but the invasion techniques devised by the Imperial Commission on Assault Strategy and Subjugation Tactics were working quite well. The Romulan contingent of the fleet were quite helpful in aiding the Acarian invasions of inhabited systems along the way, and casualties, thanks to the frequent supply convoys from Romulus and the Acarian Empire, were very low. This might change though, as we invade the Remnant and finish the oppressive scum for the last time, though. he thought to himself as he continued to survey the impressive armada through the bridge windows.
He turned to his comms station, "Contact the Commander of the Combined Fleet and extend an invitation for him to come to a dinner hosted in honour of our imminent invasion of Wintreath and the end of their unacceptable millennia of oppression."
After that, he stormed off of the bridge, flanked by four Tal Shiar Command Officers, going to inspect the troopers returning from the most recent planetary invasion...
Excerpt from Strategic Report
Romulan High Command
Capitoline Hill, Romulus
Romulan Star Empire
PRELIMINARY REPORT INVASION OF WINTREATH REMNANT
------------------------------------------------------------------
Fleets Assigned to Initial Invasion: Full Armada of Acaria and Romulan 2nd Fleet
Fleets Assigned to Reinforce Initial Invasion Force: Romulan 4th and 5th Fleets
Fleets Activated to Strategic Ready Reserve: 6th, 7th and 8th Fleets.
Note: Currently not considered active Romulan Star Navy Fleets
Projected Romulan Casualties from Initial Assault:
Approximately 7,250,000,000 Clone Troopers
Approximately 4,333,220,000 Romulan Soldiers
Approximately 466,599,500,000 Imperial Battle Droids
Approximately 2,880 Romulan Capital Ships
Approximately....
-
"Ah, yes. Intellegence networks and security is still vital, even in blossoming times of the republic," Ben responded in a hushed tone. "I feel that we haven't gotten to know each other long enough to set up a full-fledged security intelligence network between our empires. Perhaps we could just start with a simple agreement to inform each other of plots that other empires have formed against us. Possibly even join together on some plots against enemies, such as the Wintrean Remnant." Ben offered.
-
Northeastern border of Wintreath
(6, 5)
Soon, Representative Madelene Olsson arrived at the border. "I would like to welcome you again to Wintreath," she broadcast to the Avonites. "I am Representative Olsson of the Frosthold Representative Institute. We would be honored if you could follow us to Frosthold Planet to conduct discussions."
Northwestern border of Wintreath
(-7, 6)
Similarly, Representative Alve Blomqvist arrived at the western border. "This is Representative Blomqvist of the Frosthold Representative Institute," he broadcast. "As the Border Guard has already said, welcome to Wintreath. Please follow us, and we will arrive at Frosthold Planet very soon. There we can begin negotiations."
Headquarters of the Frosthold Representative Institute
Frostlake City, Frosthold Planet
(-3, 3)
Tor Björk, formerly Thane of Foreign Affairs, had "resigned" his position to become Director-General of the Frosthold Representative Institute. Already, the Institute had sent two representatives to negotiate with Avon and Science. They would be arriving at Frosthold shortly.
Björk, with instructions from Jarl Jensen, authorized the sending of six diplomatic convoys, to Lernaea, the Aesir, Laurentus, Kevarus, Acaria, and New Witchmond. Within the day, these convoys, carrying Institute representatives and staff (reallocated from the Foreign Affairs Ministry), along with military escort, began their journeys outward. If Science and the Avonites agreed to an exchange of de facto embassies, two more diplomatic convoys would likely soon follow.
-
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
Sector (-17, 18)
"Thank you, Captain Vogđ," Mott said, closing the connection.
A while later, he, some officers, and a fleet guard attaché boarded a Feynmann-class shuttle. Soon, they approached the Aesir frigate, and began docking.
Science Diplomatic Convoy to Aesir Empire
Sector (-15, 16)
"Yes, that is perfectly acceptable," Glass responded to the Aesir captain. "I will be glad to meet Jarl Aragonn."
After receiving directions from the Aesir battlecruiser, the Science convoy started following the Aesir ship. Together, they jumped into hyperspace, en route to the Aesir fleet.
Aboard the SES Actualization
Special Task Force of the Scientific Exploration Fleet
Sector (-15, 6)
"Very well then," Bailey told the Lernaeaen diplomat. "First off, we will of course recognize your nation as a sovereign state and begin an exchange of embassies. If you would like, we can also negotiate some open trade or tourism agreements."
Northwestern border of Wintrean Remnant
(-7, 6)
"Thank you, Representative Blomqvist," Ambassador Murphy told the Wintrean representative. "We will be glad to follow you to your capital."
Frosthold Representative Institute? he thought as they jumped into hyperspace as per instructions given by the Wintreans. And Representative? Interesting name choices.
-
Combined Romulan-Acarian Fleet
Enroute to Wintreath Remnant Space
Aedyn received a transmission from one of the Romulan vessels. He was invited to dinner with Fleet Praetor Relatrex. He wholeheartedly agreed to the dinner. Meanwhile, he decided to create a meeting with his sub-commanders and advisors on the invasion until he got a call back.
Acarian Diplomatic Fleet
Allied States of Lernaea Border
Katarina was sent to expand relations with the Allied States of Lernaea. Not too many fancy dealings would be made though was the plan. When they entered the border systems, she was notified of ship detection.
"Looks like the welcoming party. Open up communications."
Soon, a communication link was established.
"Hello Lernaea, my name is Katarina Marianne. I am here to conduct peaceful deals with your nation. Acaria has decided that we can be friends and improve our relations, especially with those closer to the unknown regions to Acaria."
-
AES Strawberry Swing, Northeastern border of Wintreath
(-7, 6)
Admiral Innsmouth breathed out in relief. He told the Comms Officer to send the stand down message to the reinforcements waiting further back, just in case, then to reply to the Wintreath Diplomat.
"Thank you, Representative Olsson. I am Admiral Ark Innsmouth, in charge of the 3rd Foreign Fleet of the Avonite Enclave and captain of this ship, the AES Strawberry Swing. The honour would be mine. May the wisdom of Spode guide us on this journey."
They followed them back to Frosthold, where they sat and waited for the Remnant to make the first move......
Unregistered Pirate ship Interdiction, unclaimed space north of the Kevarian Chain
Ryy Sharptalon watched as the Avonite convoy burned. The first convoy trading goods between the Enclave and the Chain was in total ruins, the goods were being taken by smaller assault ships and the escorts had been decimated. Sharptalon turned to his transmitter. The councilor who hired him had given him a code, a very special code... one that would connect to all escape pods and cut their life support. He entered the phrase and executed the command, turning back to watch the chaos...
Ruins of the AES Yellow, unclaimed space north of the Kevarian Chain
Hlt Milesight awoke. He was floating in the middle of a room. Spode, did his head hurt. He remembered the attack, the chaos that followed, the mad dash to the escape pods. He remembered how he thought he was dead when all the pods launched without him. How had he survived, anyway? He looked around and realized he was in the 3rd Armory. Yes, he remembered now, the armory blast doors were rated high enough to withstand a space vacuum, thats why he fled here. Secondary Life Support was also still active. He laughed and thanked Spode for high build standards. Hlt just hoped someone would come soon....
-
Aesir Diplomatic Convoy
Sector (-17, 18)
The AFS Draþor was unable to open the landing bay doors due to the damage caused by the boarding pods, so they were blown off by the Drekrekkr to allow the shuttle access. The damage was noncritical and could easily be repaired at a craft world shipyard. After the bay doors had been blown off successfully, the blast doors were readied to close in their place and allow the bay to be pressurized again.
Aesir Longboat AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
"Sir, the Science diplomatic ship just arrived with the AFS Þur," reported tactical.
"Comm, hail them."
"Channel open, sir."
"This is Jarl Aragonn. Welcome to the Aesir Empire, and I hope you have a comfortable stay. I made sure to get a shipment of our cookies for your enjoyment.
"You have permission to come aboard. And don't take too long because those cookies won't stay fresh forever."
The tactical officer spoke up again. "The Avonite diplomatic ship has arrived."
"Comm, open a channel with the Avonite ship."
The comm officer indicated the channel was open.
"What a surprise it was when I found out this empire was being visited by a diplomat from a nation we didn't even know existed. Tell me, how did you know about us and where our claimed border lies?"
Captain Bogdr
AFS Ratatoskr
"You should let your people know that a convoy is being sent carrying a diplomat and resources for constructing an embassy. They will need to be guided to the location you designate for them.
"You should also know that any diplomats sent to us should wait at our border until an escort comes to bring them to our Jarl. Any questions?"
Space Station Folkvang
Sector (-16, 12)
A transmission from the diplomatic convoy from the Frosthold Representative Institute to the Aesir Empire was picked up by an unmanned outpost and relayed here. The comm officer on that shift reported it immediately. The CO was baffled by the Wintrean arrogance.
"Order two battlecruisers to their position to assess the enemy. Tell them to make sure they honor our code."
The comm officer quickly sent the orders out to the AFS Odin and the AFS Heimdallr.
-
Capital Building, Industries Spirit, Avon, Avonite Enclave
"I dont know, sir." Admiral Fir Hanover said to the Council. "We lost all contact with the convoy and cannot reestablish contact. No distress call was sent, nothing received, they just vanished, sir." Councilor Art Marshwalker slammed this desk in frustration. He should have never allowed the others to send a convoy to that pirate infested hovel. If they had done anything to the convoy, Kevarus would burn, he thought to himself. " Spode judge them! This is typical with their MO! Damn pirates, the government of the Chain is nothing more than a sham! Find the convoy, Admiral, now! I dont care if it takes every single ship in your fleet, find them!" Marshwalker turned to the other councilors and continued "We should have never trusted those damn brigands! Now look at what you've done!" Kir Darkcloak stood up and shouted "WE ALL CAN SHOUT TO, ART!" she calmed herself and spoke "What do we know? Nothing! We cant jump the gun and pass judgement yet! And if it was pirates, its going to be quite a leap to assume the Chain had a direct hand! So lets. All. Calm. Down." She turned to the nervous admiral. "Go, Hanover. Find the convoy. And what ships were attached to the convoy?" Admiral Hanover consulted his notes and replied "The AES Illustrious, Kaga, Enterprise, Ozzel and Pillar of Salt. Oh, and the AES Yellow, ma'm...."
AES Redoubt, Sector (-16, 14)
Captain Waverider was surprised by the Jarl's response. Clearly, they were not as advanced as they thought if they did not know the Enclave was. He filed that for later. " Greetings, and may the wisdom of Spode be with you. We knew of your borders from a long time ago, before we were the Enclave, before The Endless War. You might remember us as either the Conclave Of The People or The Shepard's Church. The war ended 20 years ago and we became the Avonite Enclave."
-
Diplomatic Convoy to Witchians
Orbiting Protheus
"I'm down for discussing those. Let's start with trade. What do your people have to offer and what do they need?" replied Ambassador Jones.
Aboard the SES Actualization
Special Task Force of the Scientific Exploration Fleet
Sector (-15, 6)
"Open trade will be delightful!" exclaimed Donovan. "And tourism would do a great deal for our economy."
Diplomatic Convoy to Acarian Fleet
Allied States of Lernaea Border
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Your Excellency. I am Rananyus Nosus. We, too, hope that we can become friends and improve relations. Now, shall we discuss business on my ship, or yours?"
ISA Headquarters
"The reception is prepared," stated Garriott.
"Good. The Aesir are approaching," replied Morrow.
Surface of Protheus
Wallace White took a deep breath. He would be among the first to meet ones from another civilization in centuries. He walked up to the landing bay along with a small honor guard, and prepared for the Aesir to arrive.
-
Withian Scout,
In orbit of Protheus
"Toobek, our capital, has some great wildlife, and we have many great cooks who could make fantastic meals, something along those lines we could trade you, but possibly even some weaponry." The scout paused. "My people aren't in the need for any single recourse currently, but they always love different luxuries. Perhaps you have something that my nation would want, want to give an offer?"
New Witchmond's Northern Border
New Witchmond had always been prideful for their strength and conquests. Their culture is mostly made up of tales of Witchian battles and their greatest generals. Leaving the Wintrean Remnant took those tales and wonders away from them. The Wintreans held a grudge against the citizens who left, at least against the Witchians, as of New Witchmond had no idea of Wintreath's relations. This grudge led the Wintreath rejecting all access from Witchians, giving a hostile relation between the two empires. When a patrolling border guard spotted a Wintrean convoy he was suspicious, especially seeing the mass amount of military around it. He readied the newest prototype of the still-in-development plasma beam and opened a communication link with the envoy. "What do YOU want from us this time, Wintreans?" He asked in a harsh tone.
-
Wintrean diplomatic convoy to New Witchmond
Sector (-9, -13)
The Wintrean diplomatic convoy (technically, "Frosthold representative convoy") dropped out of hyperspace as it approached the border of New Witchmond. Representative Felix Magnusson began preparing to broadcast his contact signal, but before they could do that, a Witchian border guard opened communications with them.
"What do you want from us this time, Wintreans?" he asked in a harsh tone.
Magnusson quickly responded. "I am Representative Magnusson of the Frosthold Representative Institute. We seek to establish diplomatic relations with New Witchmond, so that we can better facilitate cultural and economic ties between our two nations."
Wintrean diplomatic convoy to the Aesir Empire
Sector (-13, 10)
The diplomatic convoy exited hyperspace near the Aesir Empire's borders. Representative Blenda Lundgren and her diplomatic staff began broadcasting their diplomatic message. "This is Representative Blenda Lundgren of the Frosthold Representative Institute, representing the Monarch of Wintreath. We seek to again establish peaceful relations with the Aesir Empire."
The convoy's transceiver continued broadcasting, but received no response. Suddenly, a bridge officer reported, "two battlecruisers have dropped out of hyperspace! They appear to be of Aesir origin, and are approximately the same size as our cruisers."
"Hail them," Lundgren commanded. If all went well, this situation could be resolved peacefully.
Frosthold Planet Main Orbital Traffic Control Center
Frosthold City, Frosthold Planet
Sector (-3, 3)
Orbital Traffic Control had received briefings about the two diplomatic convoys set to arrive later that day. Soon, the Science convoy exited hyperspace. An orbital traffic controller cleared them for landing and told them, "Welcome to Frosthold Planet, formerly known as Wintreath. You have been cleared to land at one of the Monarch's private spaceports, located on the shores of Frostlake. There, you will journey to Frostlake City to meet and negotiate with Monarch Wintermoot."
A few hours later, the Avonite convoy arrived. Traffic Control cleared them for landing on the shores of Frostlake as well, though at a different spaceport.
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoys
Near Lernaean Border, Sector (-14, 1)
Near Laurentian Border, Sector (-1, 14)
Near Acarian Border, Sector (-1, -14)
Near Kevarian Border, Sector (22, 3)
The other four diplomatic convoys also reached their destinations on schedule. Exiting hyperspace, they broadcast similar messages of peace and a desire to establish diplomatic relations.
-
Diplomatic Complex
City of Gypite
Toobek, New Witchmond
After hearing the response of the New Witchmond delegation, the ambassador smiled. New Witchmond will be a great ally in the coming invasion of the Remnant, then. The combined might of Acaria and Romulus is one thing, but to add a third member to their coalition all but sealed the fate of the backstabbing aristocrats on Frosthold. Zentren thought. He then spoke, "Certainly! Tal Shiar representatives will commence intelligence sharing operations immediately with members of your intelligence service, then... perhaps even to discuss retribution against what seems to be our greatest common enemy: Frosthold and the Remnants of Wintreath."
He paused for a bit, and then added, "On a more civilian topic again, what would you say to database exchanges and research cooperation? I'm sure that, together, we could improve the lives of our citizenries greatly."
Combined Romulan-Acarian Fleet
North of Acarian Empire
(en route to Wintreath Remnant Space)
Fleet Praetor Relatrex received the reply of Admiral Aedyn and ordered his ship's culinary staff to commence preparations of a traditional pre-battle Romulan feast immediately. He also re-hailed the Flagship and requested the number of persons that would be attending from the Acarian half of the fleet.
-
New Witchmond's Northern Border
The guard disabled to prototype plasma beam and spoke in an suspicious tone, "Very well then, perhaps if you are looking for an offer, I shall contact the head security tower and see what they think of it."
Head Security Tower
Gypite, Toobek
Al Ser had returned to the head security tower to check everywhere else. Soon after, a transmission from a border guard containing of, "I just ran into a Wintrean diplomatic convoy, they seek to improve diplomatic relations with us." Al followed up with a quick response. "Keep them where they are. I shall contact Ben Danation and see what we should do, as of diplomatic relations with our enemies is a matter that only the president should deal with. Al Ser then turned on his earpiece and contacted Ben.
Diplomatic Complex
Gypite, Toobek
"A research agreement sounds fantastic, may our empires prosper in these times," Ben agreed. He then received a message from his earpiece, "Ben, come quick, Wintreans are at our northern border, apparently trying to improve diplomatic relations." He got up quickly and responded to a confused looking Zentren. "Wintreans have been spotted by our border, apparently looking to improve our relations. Come follow me, I'd rather not just abandon this meeting." He hurriedly made his way to the head security tower with Zentren not to far behind him.
-
Lernaean Border
"We shall discuss on your ship, as you are the host nation." responded Katarina.
Acarian Communications Network
Sector (-1,-14)
The diplomatic convoys were a big surprise to the Acarian tasked at the station. He had no idea how to respond. He wrote a message to wait patiently to the convoy. Meanwhile, a flurry of messages was sent from and to Zuophus. This was an unexpected event in Acaria, and the Government knew that they can't make the Wintreath suspicious of their invasion. The Consul wrote a message to the station to let the Wintreans know they are 'Welcome'.
"Hello, this is the Acarian Communications Network speaking. You are in Acarian territory, flying under diplomatic purposes. We accept you convoy, you may proceed to the capital" the Communicator said as he gave them the coordinates of Zuophus."
Combined Romulan-Acarian Fleet
Grand Admiral Aedyn soon received Fleet Praetor Relatrex's hail. He took note of how many of high command wanted to feast, which was 12 of the 37 officers. He responded with the number of guests and awaited a response while observing supply line statuses.
-
Industries Spirit, Avon, Avonite Enclave
"No, no, a thousand times no! I will not let you co-opt my android program!" Kir Darkcloak looked pissed. Oh well, thought Councilor Art Marshwalker, she will just have to get over it. "It makes perfect sense, Kir. I need people who can infiltrate the Kevarian Chain. I doubt they would allow Avonites in if hostilities break out and any one we send in before a formal declaration of war would not fare well. I don't trust mercs to carry out espionage, even if I did I would never use those scum. So how will we carry out espionage without spies? Your android program is the perfect solution." If the Kevarians wanted war, they would get it, Art thought. "Dammit, Art, we don't even know what happened! You can't just lock and load on a suspicion! Anyway, the androids are not ready, so its a moot point. Find someone else to do your dirty work." Kir got up to leave, turning at the door to say one last thing. " I don't appreciate all of the council treating my science projects like their own personal treasure trove. Skyflyer, Lightbringer, now you, next thing I know Flowchaser will want the code for our special weapons programs. I actually need my science team. " and with that, she left. Art scratched his talons. By Spode, did that woman make his job hard...
AES Murphy, near the ruins of Enclave Trading Convoy GK-21-b, Unclaimed Space North of the Kevarian Chain
So there it was. The convoy was gone, Admiral Fir Hanover thought to himself. He ordered his Vice Admiral to search for evidence of the attack and recover life pods. When he was told that everyone on the life pods were dead, his blood boiled. Whoever did this had better hope that he never found them. An Ensign came running up to the Admiral with a message. " Sir, Vice Admiral Blower reports that he found a survivor, onboard the AES Yellow, sir. A Sgt Hlt Milesight,sir."
-
AFS Odin and AFS Heimdallr
Sector (-13, 10)
Both ships dropped out of hyperspace in front of the Wintreath convoy, weapons charged. The AFS Odin received a hail from the Wintreans.
Captain Dagfinn stood and ordered, "Fire the lancers between their ships. Be careful not to hit anything."
The two battlecruisers fired their lancers between the Wintrean ships, the two streams of searing plasma coming dangerously close to the diplomatic ship.
"Answer the hail," he ordered.
The comm officer nodded to sign it was done.
"Your arrogance precedes you. What makes you think we'll come running into your 'warm embrace' after the War?
"During the War, you spread us way too thin and tried to supplement us with inferior soldiers and war machines. Not once did your people trust our tactical advice, and we got decimated because of it.
"What was once an empire that spanned almost an entire quadrant now barely occupies one fourth of its territory. Entire family lines have been wiped from existence. Critical craft worlds are demolished and overrun by Nature's hand. The keys to our technological marvels have been lost. Our people now hunt for survival instead of sport.
"And despite all of this, here you are extending the hand of friendship once more. What makes you think we won't bite it off?"
Aesir Diplomatic Convoy to Lernaea
Protheus
Ambassador Herjall, dressed in her huskarl armor and sporting a power ax, boarded a Valkyrie. A squad of five Drekrekkr, one being a sergeant with a power ulfberht and all of their armor painted urban camo, boarded the Valkyrie after her. Two squads each boarded two more Valkyries, and the bay was prepped for launching.
The pilots checked their systems then fired up their engines. As soon as the bay doors opened, the Valkyries launched out and set a course for the landing pad on the surface.
From the surface, the Valkyries appeared as three streaks in the sky as they entered the atmosphere, but they soon came into visual range and landed on the pad softly.
Upon landing, the Valkyrie bay doors lowered to become ramps and the Drekrekkr squads hopped out, weapons in hand. Following them was Herjall, standing as tall as she could to stand out from the Drekrekkr.
She walked forward and said, "With whom will I be dealing?"
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
"Conclave Of The People...Yes, that does sound familiar." He quickly performed a search for them on the small console beside him. "Your people reside in the northeastern part of the galaxy, near the Laurentian Empire.
"That answers who you are, but not how you knew where our claimed border lies. Our borders have been constantly changing since the beginning of the War, and you happen to know exactly where to stop before trespassing. Have you informers within our Empire?"
-
Aesir Longboat AFS Jörmungandr
Main Aesir Fleet
Sector (-16, 14)
"Thank you in advance for the cookies," Glass responded to Jarl Aragonn. "I had the privilege to try one when meeting with the First Consul, and I must say that they are excellent."
He and the rest of the diplomatic mission boarded a Feynmann-class shuttle. Soon, they docked with the Aesir longboat.
When they came aboard, Glass and his entourage were guided to the promised cookies. He tried one. It's even better than I remembered, Glass thought to himself. Must be its freshness.
Monarch's spaceport
Frosthold Planet
Sector (-3, 3)
Led by Ambassador Murphy, the diplomatic mission flew a Rationality-class shuttle down to the surface of the Wintrean capital. The somewhat large landing craft touched down by the shores of the picturesque Frostlake.
From there, Murphy and his advisers were guided onto a rather luxurious airspeeder, which took them across the waters of the lake and into the city. They soon arrived at Frosthold Castle. Murphy braced himself for the meeting with the Monarch and entered.
Aboard the SES Actualization
Special Task Force of the Scientific Exploration Fleet
Sector (-15, 6)
"Agreed," replied Bailey.
After a little more negotiation, a few more details were worked out.
"I will contact our government as soon as possible," Bailey told the Lernaeans. "Once they approve, we will immediately send a diplomatic convoy to your territories to set up a permanent embassy. Is that satisfactory?"
-
AES Redoubt, sector -16,14
Captain Waverider sighed and leaned back into his chair. This 20 questions routine was pissing him off. He had no desire to be here, why the Admiral had picked him for diplomatic duty was beyond him. He thought about his response.
" As much as I would love to tell you all of the Enclaves secrets that information is classified. " Captain Waverider had no desire to tell him about the spies that the Enclave had in all of the Empires posing as idle mercs. " I can assure you that we have not been spying on your government." Just your people, thought Waverider.
AES Strawberry Swing, Frosthold Planet
Admiral Innsmoth boarded the shuttle to the planet. While he did he went over the orders from the Council. A bit weird, but he would oblige. He also looked at the updated emergency orders list as well. Best remember them while he could. Aw well, he thought, unless something drastic changed his days of being an Admiral were over. He reached the landing bay and followed the reception committee...
AES Sum Of All Zeros, in orbit around Kevarus, Kevarian Chain
Captain Bridgeman stormed through his ship, heading to the quarters of the Kevarian Representative. The report from Admiral Hanover was in, Convoy GK-21-b was gone. All signs pointed towards pirates. Everyone but one man dead. He burst into the Kevarians room. " I presume you heard?" He help up a copy of the report, then tossed it on his bed. " What's this?" At least Hlt Milesight was safe on the Murphy....
AES Murphy, en route to Avon, quarters of Hlt Milesight
Ryy Sharptalon stood over the body of Hlt Milesight, the look of surprise still on his face. Ryy wiped the knife off at the handle then dropped it. He exited the room, adjusting the uniform of the Enclave National Police. So kind of the Councilor to provide the uniform and ID.....
-
Wintrean diplomatic convoy to New Witchmond
Sector (-9, -13)
The diplomatic mission complied with New Witchmond's request to remain where they were. As a security precaution, though, the ships were readied for fighting and/or escape in anticipation of the situation potentially turning hostile.
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy to the Acarian Empire
Sector (-1, -14)
Representative Adrian Bergli breathed a sigh of relief. "Thank you," he responded.
The diplomatic convoy jumped into hyperspace, en route to Zuophus.
Wintrean diplomatic convoy to the Aesir Empire
Sector (-13, 10)
The plasma beams flew dangerously close to the ships, mildly damaging the shields. The crews, already readying weapons and engines systems for a potential negative outcome, intensified their efforts. As Lundgren listened to the Aesir transmission, her suspicions of a modified form of gunboat diplomacy were essentially confirmed.
Nevertheless, Lundgren took a moment to compose herself, and then responded. "What makes you think the Aesir suffered any different from any other parts of the galaxy? It was not the Aesir military that was spread too thin, but rather the forces of the entire galaxy. After millenia of peace, none of us were prepared for the terrors to follow.
"The War was devastating to all of us. Countless lives, technologies, and infrastructure were destroyed, and that destruction was not limited to only the Aesir. On Frosthold Planet itself, thousands of skyscrapers were destroyed or abandoned, often killing billions in a matter of seconds, and the once-great biological diversity of the planet has been replaced with ice and snow from pole to pole. Nobody, not even the most peaceful of cultures, was spared from the terrible consequences of the War, of the terrible rebellions.
"Historians and military analysts in what remains of Wintreath have spent centuries discussing the terrible outcome of the war, and we have found that the poor military leadership at the onset of the War caused losses of needless lives. But we now know our mistakes, and can learn from them. Even in the later stages of the War, many Aesir rose to powerful leadership positions in the Hvitt Ridderal and Ministry of Defence before circumstances forced them to return to their homelands. Furthermore, we aren't asking the Aesir to join us in any form of alliance, but simply to open up to peaceful relations.
"As one people, we fought to preserve the stability of the galaxy, and as one people, we failed. Vengeance against a nonexistent wrongdoing won't solve anything. At best, all it means is the needless deaths of even more Aesir and Wintreans, and at worst, it could mean the destruction of both of our civilizations. Let us work together and rebuild in peace, instead. Let us share our technologies for the mutual improvement of our societies, rather than destroying them in an unnecessary war. Let us open trade between our nations, instead of demolishing our industries through pointless fighting.
"We're not asking you to become best friends with us again or to join us in a glorious war. We're just asking for you to give peace between us a chance."
Monarch's Office
Frosthold Castle
Sector (-3, 3)
Monarch Wintermoot XCVIII had eschewed the formality of the throne room in favor of a smaller office. He welcomed the Science delegation in.
"Welcome," the Monarch said. "Please, sit. Here is some tea of you would like." He took a sip out of his own teacup.
"I take it that Science is a relatively younger nation?" he asked. "We have no records of your existence before the War."
Wintrean reception committee for Avonite Enclave
Monarch's spaceport, Frosthold Planet
Sector (-3, 3)
Henrik Jensen led the reception as he walked up to the Avonite delegation, accompanied by Tor Björk. "Welcome to Frostlake," he said. "I am Jarl Jensen of State, and this is Director-General Björk of the Frosthold Representative Institute. We will be travelling to Frosthold Castle, the primary residence of the Monarch."
Jensen paused for a moment. "Coincidentally, a diplomatic mission from the Democratic Empire of Science just arrived a few hours ago, so I apologize for any wait you may have. You are free to discuss anything with me as well, of course."
-
Ben and Zentren finally arrived at the security tower and Ben established a communication link. "Alright, I want this quick and simple, what do you want?"
-
Diplomatic Complex: Security Tower
City of Gypite
Toobek, New Witchmond
Ambassador Zentren turned to the Witchean leader, visibly unsettled and confused. "Why would the Remnant be attempting to make diplomatic contact now? Their policy still considers all states in the galaxy as rebellions that need to be quelled, according to the latest Tal Shiar reports, which are issued biweekly," he paused again, thinking.
"Let's hear what they have to say, I'm quite curious, and of course, if nothing comes of it, we could always board and capture the ship and interrogate the crew to be sure that there isn't a deception..."
Combined Romulan-Acarian Fleet
4 Days from the Wintreath Border
"Yes, Praetor. The Grand Admiral will be bringing 12 members of the command staff with him to the dinner. We have made the necessary accommodations, and will receive the Acarians tomorrow at 1700."
"Wonderful! I want everything to be perfect here, no problems. Also, double the Tal Shiar guard presence on the vessel. I want any Wintrean sympathizers or subversives promptly apprehended, found guilty, court-marshaled and executed. We cannot allow anyone to alert the Remnant the surprise attack. Is that clear!?" Praetor Relatrex paused.
"Yes m'lord. By your command. Colonel D'mela out."
-
Frosthold Planet
" Thank you, I am Admiral Ark Innsmoth, in charge of the AES Strawberry Swing, as well as the Foreign Fleet. " He took a moment to consider his next words. " Though not for much longer, I'm afraid." He rubbed what was left of his left hand, 1 of the 3 fingers having been blown off a long time ago in battle with the Conclave. That and the massive scars on his face and the missing teeth stood as reminders of the Endless War. "The Empire of Rationalist Science? I was not aware they came out this far. And have no fear, I understand. May I ask you something? Do you know of the Endless War? And if so, what do you think of it?"
Capital Building, Industries Spirit, Avon, Avonite Enclave
"What the heck is going on?" Irk Flowchaser said exasperatedly to Kir Darkcloak and Des Skyflyer. " How could someone possibly kill the sole survivor of GK-21-b onboard the Murphy and get away undetected? " Kir nodded and spoke "By right, they shouldn't. By right GK-21-B should have been safe. Kevarian pirates don't operate like that and last I checked Kevarian pirates don't have access to our emergency override codes. Something else is at play here, which is why I asked you both here. Des, I don't think you could ever do something like that, plus you gain nothing from it." Kir turned to Irk "and I trust you implicitly, Irk." They looked at each other for a second, then Kir continued " Art is jumping at the chance for war and Lightbringer isn't far behind. We can't trust them to keep a clear head so we have to find who did this. The ENP investigators should be in contact soon.... "
Ruins of the AES Ozzel, Ruins of Enclave Convoy GK-21-b, North of the Kevarian Chain
Of all the ships destroyed, the Ozzel had the most intact computers. All the other ships could record that an emergency override code was used to kill the life support and the crew but not which code. Hopefully the Ozzel held some answers. Enclave National Police Chief Investigator Han Watchtower looked through the records hoping for an answer. After much time, he had it. The code used was..... wait, that can't be right. Code number 1? That's... That's the code for.... a Councilor's use. Han Watchtower started in disbelief, unable to accept what was right in front of him. One of the Council was responsible....
-
Computer Conversation Records
IRW Venator Stellarum
Romulan Orbit at Starbase Romula
"Commander Gela, we have received our commands from the Tal Shiar. We've been ordered to make contact with what a scout ship has reported as another civilisation north of the Kervian Chain. We will also be escorting a trade convoy of ICC vessels to the Kervian chain on our way as well. They're carrying quite valuable cargo, according to the Continuum President."
"Thank you Centurion Darak. Begin launch pre-ignition sequences. Although I can't stand that we're simply being used by the Continuum as an escort. I wonder how much they paid some Admiral at Headquarters to assign a warship as an escort. Ugh. Weapons department? This is Commander Gela. Begin full battle drills coinciding with departure of Romula. The ICC has requested an escort, and if that is the case than we know there must be a reason. Keep prepared and maintain a constant comm link open to Fleet Headquarters."
-
Zuophus
Sector (5,-9)
With recent news of Wintreath Diplomatic Convoy, Emperor Zemas XVIII decided to hold a feast with his guests as tradition. Of course this is all a ruse, being nice to the Wintreans, but traditions must be upheld. Due to security reasons, the diplomat would land in the Private Imperial Airport, which was near the palace. They would be then escorted by the Palace Guards to the Palace for the feast and then discuss diplomatic terms with one who has high knowledge of diplomacy.
Combined Romulan-Acarian Fleet
3 Days from Wintrean Border
12 of Acarian High Command boarded their shuttles to fly to the Romulan Vessel. They sent out a communication saying they were arriving.
-
Diplomatic Convoy to Witchians
Orbiting Protheus
"Well, under luxuries, we do have jewels and gold," said Ambassador Jones. "Also, we do offer civilian ships, such as the Royalish-class yacht, designed for, well, luxurious travels. Weaponry does sound interesting. Different technologies could give us an upper hand."
ISA Headquarters
"Sir, we're receiving a diplomatic message from... the Wintreans!" shouted Garriott.
"The Wintreans?" asked Morrow. "We haven't had any contact with them... ever. Be cautious."
"Yes sir!" replied Garriott. "I'm sending over a convoy now."
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy
Near Lernaean Border, Sector (-14, 1)
The Wintrean ships slowly came into view as they approached. David Barron took in a huge breath. He was one of the few people that even knew that a war had happened. He spent most of his life devoted to studying the Wintreans. I finally get to meet them! he thought. And as an ambassador to Lernaea! He alerted the honor guard to be ready, and opened a channel for communication. "Hello! I am David Barron, representing the Allied States of Lernaea. It seems that you have stumbled across our borders into a truly wonderful place."
Diplomatic Convoy to Acarian Fleet
Allied States of Lernaea Border
"Very well. I'm transmitting the docking procedures now. I look forward to seeing you in person," responded Rananyus Nosus.
She alerted her honor guard to meet her at the docking bay, and walked there as quickly as possible, and waited for the Acarian's arrival.
Aesir Diplomatic Convoy to Lernaea
Protheus
Wallace stepped forward. "That would be me, Ambassador," he stated. "I am Mr. White. Welcome to Lernaea, and more importantly, Protheus, our capital. I do hope that you enjoy your stay. Now right this way," he said. "Oh, and I don't believe I caught your name."
Aboard the SES Actualization
Special Task Force of the Scientific Exploration Fleet
Sector (-15, 6)
"Yes it is," replied Donovan. "I will do the same. It's been a pleasure, and I look forward to seeing more of Science."
-
Emperor Laurentus had been putting out one fire after another, so the last thing he wanted to hear was that the Vashoth were headed to the capital planet. This news had made his Asari ambassador's severely uncomfortable, and they were threatening trade sanctions if any sort of deal were made with the oxmen.
But they still made up a significant percentage of the empire's population, and what was more, they contributed the most military might to the Imperial Fleet. He would need to be both a skilled diplomat and hardened soldier to keep his alliance with both the Asari and Vashoth.
_____________________________
(Listen to this (http://http://youtu.be/niK0IQhiCSw) in a loop while reading this segment)
The Gaatlok, prince Henrik's flagship, was steadily headed out of the New Hatfield territories, and crossing into Laurentus States. The Qunari was in a bad mood, as he always was when being forced to deal with Asari. He did not relish meeting them later.
It was therefore all the more reason for the crew to be on their best behaviour, as Henrik had violent outbursts when faced with the smallest level of incompetence, and he very much regarded this catastrophe as incompetence.
The 2.3 metre tall Qunari was standing behind the communications operator, himself a slightly smaller Qunari, and instructed him to place him in contact with the Chief Engineer. "Chief Engineer Victus, I require your presence in the command center. Now. Over." Henrik cut him off without waiting for an answer. The Turian would have to come quickly, if he knew what was good for him. He did not. When he finally did arrive, he was was met with an entire room full of operators, with their backs turned firmly away from him, and the prince's hard, unflinching gaze.
"Clearly you don't understand the meaning of the word 'now.' Shall I explain it to you?" Henrik was livid, but didn't show any outward signs of it.
"I apologise, your excellency. My duties have kept me busy these past few days."
"Yes, your duties. I understand," the Qunari was saying with a pleasant inflection, and began walking to one of the monitors displaying the shield generator. The Turian followed, quite relieved.
"Tell me, Chief Engineer, what would you say that is coming out of our shield generator?" Henrik maintained his pleasant voice.
The Turian looked closely at the live image in front of him, and felt his blood turn to ice as he recognised the small cloud rising out of the generator: smoke. That could mean only one thing: he had botched his analysis of the ship's systems 48 hours earlier. "I... Your Excellency... I don't know how I missed that. I'm sorry. I shall go make repairs immediately."
"No, no, stay. You've been working so hard. I think that's why you missed it." Henrik was sounding more pleasant than ever, but Victus realised that the other operators were hunched over their desks, as though bracing themselves for an horrific attack.
"Are... Are you certain, your Excellency?"
"Indeed. Here, why don't I pour you some of that Turian beverage you can't seem to get enough of?" Henrik took the glass right in front of him and began pouring quite a large dose of the drink, all the while projecting a relaxed, friendly demeanour.
The Turian was very uncomfortable, but couldn't very well refuse the prince's offer. "I thank you for the drink, your Excellency. Did your Excellency have it ordered up from the lounge?" Victus knew it was a stupid question, but he was getting more and more nervous, and didn't know what else to say.
"Indeed I did. Only the finest will do for my most hard working engineer. Now. Tell me, would you join me for a round of cards?"
Victus didn't know what was happening, but he was certain it was something bad. "If your Excellency so desires, but would it not be better for me to get back to my duties? I would not want to keep your Excellency from your Excellency's own."
"Ah. Such a pity. I do so enjoy a good game of cards. Especially when I'm supposed to be on duty. Wouldn't you say that is the best time to indulge in it?"
Victus suddenly knew what this was all about, but before he could get a word out, Henrik had picked him up violently with one hand, and began smashing his head against the monitor with a force that no human could ever hope to match. The first smash cracked the protective layer, the second smash completely shattered it, and by the third smash, Victus was nothing but a crushed and bloody corpse.
The operators had closed their eyes and recoiled with each unholy crack, and were still too afraid to open their eyes now.
Henrik never raised his voice. He simply said: "Back to your duties, and somebody clean up this mess and replace this monitor," to the room at large before storming out of the command center to his private room.
________________________________
Imperial Prince Marinia was staring at his guests intently. He had been made the Minister of Foreign Affairs by the emperor, and had swiftly gotten back to all the foreign dignitaries that had been piling up under his predecessor. "I am sorry for the delay you all experienced. The previous minister's health failed him, and we've been scrambling to find a suitable replacement ever since. I welcome you to our empire, and hope you find us worthy of an alliance."
-
AFS Odin
Sector (-13, 10)
Dagfinn stood there listening to the Wintrean speak. He put serious thought into what she had to say, and determined that she had spoken the truth. But there was still one thing puzzling him.
"I commend you on your courage to come to us. You didn't cower behind soldiers, you didn't lie, you didn't tell us what you thought we wanted to hear. You told us what we needed to hear; the truth. For this, I welcome you to the Empire.
"However, there is one question I have for you. Why come to us now?"
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
Aragonn narrowed his eyes a bit. He didn't like this pest's tone. But for the sake of diplomacy, he would let it go.
"You stated you have no spies within our government, which is true unless you somehow managed to sway an Aesir to your side, but you said nothing about spying on my people. You're lucky I don't feel like going on a witch hunt right now.
"You're also lucky this is a diplomatic scenario because you just underestimated us. Had this been a combat situation, you would be dead right now.
"But alas, here we are. Come aboard my ship, the AFS Jörmungandr. We shall discuss diplomatic terms here."
He ended communications and got up from his seat. He needed to address the Science ambassador.
"Lieutenant Kommander, you have the bridge."
The Lieutenant Kommander took the Captain's chair as Aragonn walked off the bridge. As the Jarl made his way to the makeshift conference room, he did a breathing exercise to calm himself. The Science ambassador was called to the conference room upon Aragonn's entrance with instructions to bring cookies with him from the galley.
Aesir Diplomat Herjall
Protheus
The ambassador looked him up and down to size him up. The brain with no brawn type... she thought in disappointment.
She made a series of clicks to the Drekrekkr sergeant, and his squad took the rear. All the other Drekrekkr stood with the Valkyries.
"My name is Herjall. It is an honor to meet you. Take us to our destination.
"But before you do, are there any security concerns we should be aware of? Criminal activity or rogue factions?"
Aesir Diplomat to Laurentian Empire
Sector (5, 18)
Ambassador Dersyr listened to Marinia's apology and grunted. This wait had better be worth it...
-
Diplomatic convoy to Learnaea
"I can let the traders of New Witchmond know about this trade route that we have accomplished. So, what shall we discuss next?" The scout replied.
-
High Cathedral of Spode, Industries Spirit, Avon, Avonite Enclave
Dar Malediction read the report from his Vigilant with some depair. The Vigilants were the Commonwealth of Spode's spies, watching everyone to make sure no one was a threat to the church. The Ecstatics were the muscle who made sure any threats were... neutralized. They were both part of the Spode Vigilantes. The report was from a plant in the ENP, the National Police. The evidence showed that the attack was orchestrated by one or more members of the council, or at least someone high up on the ladder. However, that evidence was being buried as they spoke. The report showed that all the councilors except Des Skyflyer had voted to keep it a secret. Malediction wanted to know why. He started to speak to Yul Deacon, leader of the Spode Evangelicals, and Jim Windwaver, leader of the Spode Reconciliators. "This is worrying. The Council is playing a dangerous game, if they go guns blazing the Commonwealth may be harmed. We need to find out more information. Unfortunately the Council is the one branch of government the Vigilants have not been able to infiltrate. But dont worry, I have a plan to sway one of the Councilors to our side..."
AES Redoubt, Sector (-16, 14)
Captain Waverider bristled. "Keep calm, keep calm, Kli. Remember your a diplomat." He thought to himself. He responded to the Aesir message. "Thank you for the gracious invitation." He stood up and turned to his XO, Jik Cannonman. "You have the ship, Jik. If anything happens, fire the SuperMAGS and get outta here." He then turned to the staff that would follow him. Mostly admin, but he also had a representative from the Commonwealth of Spode, an Evangelical named Brother Kar Mensindigo and some one from the Vigilanties named Ecstatic Lyl Gillbreather. "Lets go men." He made his way onto the ship....
Capital Building, Industries Spirit, Avon
"Are you sure this will work?" Irk Flowchaser nervously paced up and down as he said so in Kir Darkcloaks room. "Yes, Irk, it will. Art and Jan wouldn't buy little miss perfect Skyflyer voting to keep something like that a secret and we need to get closer to them to find out who ordered the attack. Before it looked like they were just gung ho, now it looks like they are actually evil. One, maybe both of them! We need to figure this thing out, Irk. Together." Irk stopped, turned to face Kir and breathed deeply. "OK."
Art Marshwalkers house, Industries Spirit, Avon
Art Marshwalker never really liked company. He did not invite friends over, did not have neighborhood barbecues and did not entertain female guests. Which made killing him so easy. Ryy Sharptalon checked his injuries. The old man had put up quite a fight, leaving some permanent injuries for Ryy to remember the old General by. But in the end years of frontline combat experience won out and Art lay on the ground with a letter opener in his neck, a vacant stare on his face. The study was in tatters following the no holds barred fistfight. Ryy picked up his radio that had been dropped in the fight. "Ok, hes dead. Send in the droid." He waited a bit until the perfect android replica of Marshwalker came in....
-
Computer Staff Log Records
IRW Venator Stellarum
North of Kevarian Chain
"Begin Commander's Log, Venator Stellarm. We have left the ICC convoy in the capable hands of their own private military forces and are proceeding to the coordinates of what the Tal Shiar reports is another empire. I have ordered the standard Romulan greeting to be broadcast on all frequencies until we make contact with this unrecorded civilisation. Another entry will be made after first contact in accordance with Combined Romulan Military Doctrine, Section 4, "Foreign Relations," Subsection 1, "First Contact," Paragraph 6, "...Upon the ending of a First Contact situation a full report by all crew members, officers and crew, will be submitted to the Tal Shiar for study, and shall consist of a detailed report of all interaction with the new species, the impression of the new species, and each crewmember's opinion of the capabilities of the newly met species' industry and military might."
Combined Romulan-Acarian Fleet
3 Days from the Wintreath Border
Praetor Relatrex walked past the masses of soldiers at attention, escorted by half of his Command Staff, to the entrance to the shuttle from the Acarian Command Ship, and, almost on cue, the ramp lowered and out came the Grand Admiral of the Fleet and his officers. Relatrex cleared his voice and spoke, "We are very glad that you could make it, sir. We are about to celebrate on the eve of a historic day for our great empires! Please, follow me..."
Relatrex gestured back toward the back of the shuttle bay to the main ship entrance, the path still marked out by the thousands of troops standing clad in battle armour and at attention...
-
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
AFS Draþor
Sector (-17, 18)
As the Feynmann-class shuttle approached the Aesir ship, Mott noticed that much of the repairs were already complete. These Aesir work quickly, he observed. The Science captain watched in mild surprise as the Aesir ship they were heading toward blew off its own landing gates. The Feynmann-class shuttle flew into the ship, and the blast doors closed behind them.
Mott and his attaché exited the shuttle and greeted the Aesir that had come out for their arrival.
Personal Office of the Monarch
Frosthold Castle, Wintrean Remnant
Sector (-3, 3)
Ambassador Roger Murphy responded to the Monarch's words, "Yes, our nation is quite new. We were originally founded from a group of Wintrean scientists who crash-landed on an uncharted planet centuries ago."
He took a sip of tea, then continued. "So, what types of diplomatic relations would you like with our nation?"
Aboard the SES Actualization
Special Task Force of the Scientific Exploration Fleet
Sector (-15, 6)
"Excellent!" Director-General Bailey replied.
After the Lernaeans left the ship, Bailey told the communications officer, "Send a message to Vivaldi regarding our negotiations, and request them to send a diplomatic mission to establish an embassy."
Several days later, a diplomatic convoy departed the borders of Science, en route to Lernaea. For reasons of safety and speed, they would make the journey largely within the friendly territories of the Aesir.
Science Diplomatic Convoy to Laurentian Empire
Sector (-1, 20)
After a considerable delay, a the Laurentians responded. Interestingly (and logically, considering the delay) the message was made by the Imperial Prince Marinia himself.
Ambassador Robert Forrester replied to the message, asking for further instructions on where to go and establish their embassy.
Aesir Longboat AFS Jörmungandr
Main Aesir Fleet
Sector (-16, 14)
Ambassador Glass received instructions to go to the ship's conference room to Jarl Aragonn with the cookies. Taking the cookies, he walked to the conference room and entered.
"Hello," Glass greeted the foreign head of state.
-
Wintrean diplomatic convoy to New Witchmond
Sector (-9, -13)
A while later, a Witchian official opened communications with the convoy. "Alright, I want this quick and simple. What do you want?"
Representative Magnusson responded, "As I already said in our original broadcast, Wintreath, and the Monarch in particular, is looking to extend the hand of friendship toward its fellow nations. We understand that, given past history over the last few centuries, many nations might be uninclined to do so. However, we feel that making an honest attempt at friendship is better than making none, and so we ask if you would like to reestablish ties between us again."
Wintrean reception committee for Avonite Enclave
Monarch's spaceport, Frosthold Planet
Sector (-3, 3)
"The Endless War?" Jensen remarked. He had done some research into the historical records of regarding the Avonite Enclave, and decided to hazard a guess. "Are you referring to the war between the Shepard's Church and Conclave of the People? It was, if I recall correctly, both one of the first and one of the last parts of the Third Galactic Civil War."
Zuophus
United Acarian Empires
Sector (5,-9)
The Wintrean mission and its Acarian escort exited hyperspace near the Acarian capital planet. The Wintreans were then given instructions to land in the Imperial Spaceport, where they were escorted to the Imperial Palace. There, Representative Bergli and his entourage were invited to a feast by the Emperor.
Somewhat surprised by the warm welcome, Bergli did not know what to expect when he entered the banquet hall for the feast.
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy
Near Lernaean Border
Sector (-14, 1)
The foreign diplomat hailed the Wintreans, saying, "Hello! I am David Barron, representing the Allied States of Lernaea. It seems that you have stumbled across our borders into a truly wonderful place."
Representative Julia Øye listened, thinking, I wonder how wondrous they truly are...
She then responded, "Thank you for the warm welcome! I presume you are here to negotiate terms of friendship? Where would you like to meet?"
Wintrean diplomatic convoy to the Laurentian Empire
Sector (-1, 14)
Representative Marko Göransson listened to the Imperial Prince's response, surprised at the lack of hostility. He responded, asking the Laurentians for further instructions.
Wintrean diplomatic convoy to the Aesir Empire
Sector (-13, 10)
Lundgren breathed a sigh of relief as the Aesir's aggressive stance subsided.
"I am glad that you value the truth," she told the Aesir officer, "So I will answer your question honestly as well. The answer, as usual, is politics. On a larger scale, our seeking you out is a byproduct of our Monarch implementing reforms in Wintreath. Our current Monarch has been pushing for a repeal of the archaic laws declaring all other nations in the galaxy as traitors, but ultimately has been unable to. However, he has won legal approval to send out de facto ambassadors to other nations, and so here I am."
Personal Office of the Monarch
Frosthold Castle
Sector (-3, 3)
The Monarch nodded at the Science ambassador's words. He then responded, "Legally, unfortunately, there are laws preventing the Frozen Realm of recognizing your nation. However, we are open to trade agreements and establishing cultural and economic representation, which would be embassies in all but name."
-
Ben paused for a long 5 minutes If we accept, we could finally get what our people wanted. But, at the same time, our people have longed to get revenge upon them. Ben tossed around the ideas. He muted his side of the communication link and turned to face Zenten, "What are your relations with the remnant?" he asked.
-
Avonite Enclave diplomatic convoy to Wintreath Remnant, Frosthold Planet
Admiral Innsmoth nodded. " Yes, we call it The Endless War. No one from the beginning is alive. It touched all of us." He gestured with what was left of his hand to what was left of his face. " Some more than others. I ask because it has become ingrained in all of us. We breath it. We live it. We see it when we sleep." Admiral Innsmoth's eyes glazed over , lost in a memory of battle's long over. He snapped back to the present. " And many of our people partially blame the Remnant. You could have stopped the war, reigned in the Conclave and the Church. You were on good terms with them. And you did nothing. So your response, and the response of the Monarch, will determine how the Transitional Council proceeds." Innsmoth stopped walking and turned to Jensen. " So, what do you have to say?"
Behind him, part of the team that followed Admiral Innsmoth, Ecstatic Sul Gravemind watched the preceding earnestly. He would have to report to the Commonwealth....
Which is exactly what diplomat Jik Lowfloater was doing, watching, to report to his master, one very special member of the Council...
Capital Building, Industries Spirit, Avon
It was Art Marshwalker and it was not Art Marshwalker. It wore his face. But it also knew he was dead. It supposed it did not matter. It had a mission. It made its way into the Council Chamber. Jan Lightbringer looked up from his work and spoke. " Ah, Art. Glad you're here, we need to discuss this situation. " It logged the start of the conversation for its master later.
Message between Agents Regret And Truth of the Conclave of the People
Regret
Yes Truth
We are losing the war. How long will we last
We can win. We can prevail
How
Spode is with us, not the Shepard's Heathens
Can we win
Yes. We just need to believe
How is Art Marshwalker
Dead like the Heathen he is. The Shepard's influence on the Council is gone
What about the Remnant?
They will not help those Heathens. I Will Not Let Them
Avonite Enclave, Sector Y,4, X,20
The border post got the Romulan message. Soon a diplomatic convoy was at the border led by Captain Gry Breabbaker. " We do not see many Romulans around here. What brings you to the Enclave? "
-
Zuophus, United Acarian Empires
Imperial Palace
Sector (5,-9)
The diplomat was shown to a long, elegantly designed table. Emperor Zemas XVIII was seated at the head of the table. Facing the emperor, his wife, Theodora, was seated to the left of him. A noticeably empty chair was at the right of him, which was meant for the heir. Little did people know that the heir to the throne caught terrible disease. 6 others were seated as well. The consul was seated and so was the Minister of Foreign Relations. 4 people were diplomats. The Wintrean Representative would be seated across from the emperor. Court musicians were playing elegant waltzes in the background.
It might have been extravagant to others, but this was a regular tradition in Acaria when meeting in their home territory. Plus, it was a historic meeting between Wintreath and the United Acarian Empires, who had done many things together in the past, considering the Acarians originally lived on Frosthold.
"Welcome Wintreath! To the United Acarian Empires. We have watched for you to make an appearance in the galaxy after the civil war. Now tell us, what brings you to our fair nation?" boomed the Emperor.
Combined Acarian-Romulan Fleet
3 Days from Wintreath Border
The Grand Admiral of the Fleet, Aedyn Zaegun, was impressed by the thousands of troops standing at attention. His officers murmured behind him.
"We are also glad to celebrate this day with you." he said as the group followed the path. Aedyn Zaegun was worried, as Zuophus has sent a message of halting further movements towards the border since a Wintrean representative has come to visit them. Hopefully this military invasion won't vanish in a puff of diplomacy and politics...
Diplomatic Convoy
Allied States of Lernaea Border
Soon the shuttle landed in the docking bay of the Diplomatic vessel. The ramp lowered, and Katarina Marianne was very impressed at the sight of the honor guard.
-
Diplomatic Convoy to Science
Sector (-15, 6)
After boarding their own ship again, Donovan let out a sigh. That went well, he thought. He went to the terminal to inform ISA about the negotiations, and requested a ship be sent to establish an embassy.
"Oh, and be sure to ensure that it gets there safely," he concluded.
Aesir Diplomatic Convoy to Lernaea
Protheus
Wallace wasn't sure what to say. How could anyone question Lernaea's safety? he thought.
He quickly came back to reality and said, "Crime is almost non-existent, besides a few petty thieves that are cracked down on immediately, thanks to a capable police force. If you must know, there is a gang, they call themselves the Gobblers, but they haven't troubled anyone for the past 25 years. They mostly keep to themselves now."
"Now, right this way, ma'am." The honor guard took the front and led the way. "Would you like any refreshments before we start?"
"Sorry, excuse me for a second, I have an urgent message coming in," Wallace apologized. He quickly took the message and came back. "I apologize for the hastiness, but it seems that we have a ship bound for Science. Do you grant us safe passage through your territory?"
Diplomatic Convoy to Witchians
Orbiting Protheus
"I will also let my superiors know about this trade route. Now, I was wondering, have your people met any other civilizations? We haven't had much communication with the outside world since the war until now. We'd love to get acquainted with the outside world."
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy
Near Lernaean Border, Sector (-14, 1)
Barron responded, "Indeed, we are here to negotiate terms of friendship. How about we meet aboard your ship."
He wanted to get a feel for Wintrean culture, and what better way to do it than to observe the ship!
Diplomatic Convoy to Acarian Fleet
Allied States of Lernaea Border
"Welcome aboard!" announced Rananyus Nosus. "It's a pleasure to meet you in person, Ms. Marriane."
She snapped three times and the honor guard opened the doors, leading to the conference room. "Right this way! Would you like any refreshments before we begin?"
-
Witchian Convoy to Learnaea
"We know Acaria, the Wintrean Remnant, we just met th Romulans not too long ago, and we also know you." The scout answered.
-
Communications Records
IRW Venator Stellarum
North of Kevarian Chain
"Good day, Captain, I presume. I am Commander Gela of the Warbird Venator Stellarum, on orders from the Emperor of the Romulan Star Empire to re-establish communications with the outside world. We are pleased to meet you, and the rest of the Avonite Enclave. How would you like to proceed?"
Diplomatic Complex
City of Gypite
Toobek, New Witchmond
"The Romulan Star Empire has..." Zentren temporarily paused, thinking of the appropriate phrasing, "...interesting relations with the Remnant. We have no official relations at all, actually. They were all broken off immediately after the Empire was able to re-establish itself and drive out the occupying Wintrean forces. In fact, many in the Senate are calling for an invasion of the Remnant, to ensure that it can never again enslave the Romulan people. Additionally, the Tal Shiar reports that conservative leaders still block all official communication with any state in the galaxy, and that the Monarch is attempting to override their say."
Combined Romulan-Acarian Fleet
North of Acarian Empire
3 Days From Remnant Border
Praetor Relatrex smiled, "I'm glad to hear it, Admiral!! How is the Acarian portion of the Joint Fleet?" Relatrex then led the Acarian Fleet delegation down the corridor toward the formal dining hall.
-
Head Security Tower
Gypite, Toobek
New Witchmond
"Very well then, let's get this response in." Ben talked unmuting the communication link. "Wintreans, at this time, I must decline your offer." He paused, "Farewell, safe travels." Then the communication link was shut down.
-
Aesir Frigate AFS Draþor
Sector (-17, 18)
Ulfír was standing outside the landing bay with his helmet off and power double spear magnetically attached to his back, waiting for confirmation that the bay had been sealed and pressurized with the Science shuttle inside. Once he had it, he entered the bay and approached the Scientists.
"Welcome aboard! Please excuse the mess. I assure you that it will be cleaned up, or at least mostly cleaned up, after our chat together. This way, please."
He then guided them to a briefing room which wasn't being used. He sat on the raised platform in front of the rows of seats and motioned for them to be seated as well.
"My name is Ulfír. I've been assigned to be my nation's diplomat to you. And I suppose you want to know what happened during the pirate attack. Am I correct?"
Captain Dagfinn
AFS Odin
Sector (-13, 10)
"I should have you know that politics is why we fired upon our arrival. Our past five Jarls have blamed Wintreath for the deaths of so many Aesir during the War, and it wasn't difficult for them to get everyone to despise your people.
"If you wish for an audience with our Jarl, I will escort you to him. But you must leave your armed escorts behind. You mustn't worry about your safety, for we will not harm you so long as you wave the banner of peace."
Jarl Aragonn
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
"Greetings, Scientist Ambassador. I apologize for the delay, but I am waiting for one more ambassador to join us before discussing anything."
The Avonite Ambassador arrived soon after via Drekrekkr escort.
"Welcome to the conference room. I must say you're shorter than I thought you'd be. Please, join us."
Ambassador Herjall
Protheus
Herjall sent a quick coded message to the convoy in orbit which relayed it to the Empire.
"Your ship will have safe passage as long as it identifies itself. And no, I am not in need of any refreshments.
"Now, if you don't mind, I'm not really one for small talk, so let's try to stay on track with our discussions. I will give you time to ask any questions about us that you want, but don't ask anything too personal. Understood?"
-
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
AFS Draþor
Sector (-17, 18)
"Glad to meet you, Ambassador Ulfír," Mott replied to the Aesir ambassador. "I am Captain Tobo Mott, as you may already know. And indeed, I would like to know what happened in the attack."
Personal Office of the Monarch
Frosthold Castle, Wintrean Remnant
Sector (-3, 3)
"That's most interesting," replied Murphy. It certainly explains some of the earlier strangeness we encountered. "The Democratic Empire would be pleased to open unofficial relations with the Frozen Realm. We'd also be open to some trade agreements."
SES Actualization
Special Task Force of the Scientific Exploration Fleet
Sector (-15, 6)
Bailey contacted the Lernaeans one last time, asking them if they had guidance on where best to continue their explorations in the galactic south.
Diplomatic Mission to the Aesir Empire
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
"Who is this new ambassador, and where are they from?" Glass asked the Aesir Jarl. Before he could respond, however, an Aesir escort brought the diplomat in.
Diplomatic Convoy to Lernaea
Near Aesir Border
Sector (-15, 17)
The convoy to Lernaea, led by Ambassador Jessica Rogers, approached the Aesir border via an oft-traveled trade route. She began broadcasting, "This is Science Ambassador Jessica Rogers, en route to Lernaea. We request permission to travel within the Aesir border and make use of domestic hyperlanes for the purpose of speed in transportation."
-
Capital Building, Industries Spirit, Avon
Jan Lightbringer looked around at what was left of the Council Room. The Blast had been sudden and unexpected. Only Art and Jan had been in the Capital Building. He scanned the room to try and find Art. It came as quite a shock when he saw that pieces of Art had been blown near him, worse still was what those pieces were. Bone, skin, gristle was expected. Not circuits and electronics... what the hell? The bomb wasn't planted.....Art was the bomb. Or whatever this thing was. He examined it closely. It looked like Kir's android prototype. Jan felt rage build up inside him. Kir must have done this! But why? His thoughts were interrupted by the distinctive CRACK of laser fire. Every laser had a distinct sound and this one.... he hadn't heard it in a long time. His spine tingled as he made his way out.
Ryy Sharptalon reveled in the chaos. Finally, some proper action! Not killing some hapless navy boy or an old general, some real gritty work. He kept walking down the corridor. The Avon Dragoons put up a valiant defence but the Councilor was kind enough to cut power, give us an access point and provide weapons and armour. He liked how this was going, even if they were using the junk that the Shepard's Church used before. He wondered how the Councilor had gotten hold of these. It did not matter in the end. He had a job to do.
Bastion of Spode, Industries Spirit, Avon
Dar Malediction hefted the gun in his hand. It was a relic from the start of the Endless War, the MAG Dragoon Model, a huge hand cannon revolver with 6 shots. It had a 6 inch barrel that made it very accurate up to 100 meters. It's fixed cylinder made reloading the single use energy cells a bit troublesome but it was a reliable and powerful weapon. One shot, one kill. Dar kept it as a reminder of everything that happened from the start of the War. Now he would need it. He put it in his cross draw holster and gunbelt before addressing the Ecstatic's around him. All were loaded for bear. " We have a mission. Heathens long thought dead are a threat to us again. For Spode, we must extricate this threat. The High Cathedral has approved our mission. We attack the Capital Building now!"
AFS Jormungandr
At 2.10 meters Captain Kli Waverider hardly considered himself short. The lizard in front of him was barely taller. His feelers rose at the slight but he ignored it. " It is nice to meet you, Jarl Aragonn, Spode has looked upon us kindly this day. He turned to the other person, some human. Humans were delicious and Kli thought of food. " And it is a pleasure to meet you to. My name is Captain Kli Waverider of the Avonite Enclave. "
Message from Agents of the Conclave of the People Regret and Truth
Regret
Yes Truth
The Attack Is Underway. The Merc Is In Position
Good. Start The Attack On Your Side. Spode Watch Us
Admiral Fir Hanover closed the message with a smile. The Conclave will finally rise again. He turned to his bridge crew. Those that were not on their side had been either killed or detained. Only those still loyal to the true government still stood. He ordered the ships loyal to him to open fire. In a matter of minutes the burned husks of a dozen ships began to fall back into orbit.
AES Blader, North of the Kevarian Chain
Captain Gry Breabbaker laughed and responded. " Oh, just follow us to our Capital, Avon. Nothing around these parts would interest a Romulan Warbird. Gotta say, having the name Warbird in your diplomatic ship is a bit of an oxymoron. " he laughed again. " Anyway, I'm Captain Gry Breabbaker of the AES Blader. Welcome to the Avonite Enclave."
-
Tal Shiar Headquarters
Capitoline Senatorial Complex
Romulus, Romulan Star Empire
The Tal Shiar Headquarters was temporarily in a panic. General D'Deridex VII himself was working as quickly as possible.
"Order IRW Vigilax to disrupt Wintrean communications with Frosthold!! Employ Wintrean communications techniques! It must look like the hawks on Wintreath are sabotaging the diplomatic meeting!!"
"Yes M'Lord! It shall be done!"
"Get me Ambassador Zentren!! We're going forward with unconventional diplomacy! Permission to reveal the Invasion of the Remnant granted, just no specifics, and only to their Leader!! Prepare the Potentator for immediate departure! I will be heading to Acaria myself!!"
"As you wish, General!" "Command complies, sir!"
"Good! Instruct IRW Venator Stellarum to follow the Enclave vessel to their capital and conduct reconnaissance. Operatives placed before official first contact report religious war. Find out who is winning! We will support whoever is!"
"By your command, General!"
"Potentator responding ready for departure in one hour, sir!"
"Wonderful! Take me to my shuttle! General Trex, you are in temporary command during my trip to Acaria. General Trex, the security of the Empire's Citizens are in your hands. Do not fail them!!
Head Security Tower
Gypite, Toobek
New Witchmond
Ambassador Zentren received the orders from the Tal Shiar. "Yes... yes... very well. It shall be done, General... no, that shouldn't be a problem, General.... as you wish, sir. I will proceed with your commands immediately. Ambassador Zentren out."
The Ambassador paused, unsure as to how to bring up the invasion of the Remnant. "I'm sure you are wondering what that little communique was. The good thing is, I can tell you now. The Acarian Empire and the Romulan Star Empire have launched an invasion fleet against the Wintrean Remnant. Would New Witchmond be willing to aid in this invasion? You would be entitled to your share of the Remnant, too. And you would also lose an enemy. What do you say?"
Communications Records
IRW Venator Stellarum
North of Kevarian Chain
"I'm sure that it could seem as such!" Commander Gela responded, a little smile escaping before she realised. "The Venator Stellarum is technically a warship... we were only redirected by Fleet Command after they got a request from the Tal Shiar. We were the nearest vessel, and consequently, we were dispatched! Thank you for your welcome! We're standing by to follow you to Avon, Captain Breabbaker! Gela out."
"Helm prepare to follow AES Blader to Avon." Gela turned around as a communications officer announced, "Commander, message for you from the Tal Shiar! Shall I route it to your command room?"
"Certainly. Subcommander Semal, you have the bridge." Gela headed off into her command room, perplexed. What on earth the Tal Shiar want with this ship?
-
Head Security Tower
Gypite, Toobek
New Witchmond
"I must accept." Ben accepted. He then turned and order Al Ser, who was still in the room,"Go, prepare the fleets. Make sure they all are ready for takeoff, make sure they are prepared for war."
-
Ambassador Ulfír
AFS Draþor
Sector (-17, 18)
"We had just finished our last jump through hyperspace and were recharging for the next jump when five ships appeared on scanners. Captain Borghildr of the Aesir destroyer AFS Hrothgarr ordered them to back off, but the ship's kept coming.
"Upon entering weapons range, Captain Borghildr opened fire on the ships. A fierce battle ensued which tested the limits of the Captain's abilities. The two larger enemy ships maneuvered under the frigates and launched boarding pods. But the Captain was clever. She used this as a chance to cripple the two ships with torpedoes, and it worked beautifully. One of the ship's was destroyed and the other limping away.
"But with pirates aboard the frigates, the Captain had to act quickly. She pulled her ship alongside the limping one and gave her ultimatum. And with that, the pirates stood down. Glory was hers!
"Soon after, a new Captain entered the scene; Captain Fånnr of the Aesir cruiser AFS Hel. He took charge of the situation and relieved Captain Borghildr of the task of escorting the convoy. Soon after she disappeared into hyperspace, he ordered the destruction of the remaining smaller enemy ships and the massacre of the pirate boarders. He then blew the last ship to scrap pieces. Such was a tragic event...
"Captain Fånnr took the AFS Hel east while we continued on our way. And here we are, talking to each other."
-
Wintrean reception committee for Avonite Enclave
Monarch's spaceport, Frosthold Planet
Sector (-3, 3)
Jensen nodded as he listened to the Avonite admiral's statements. "All of Wintreath suffered in the War," he finally responded. "Even here, at what was the political center of the galaxy, our government struggled, and often failed, to keep order.
"And despite all of this, we still attempted to help your people. Even as a hundred different wars and rebellions broke out across the galaxy, we sent mediators and diplomats to each individual conflict in an attempt to resolve them. Ultimately, we failed, and perhaps that is due to our lack of preparation after millennia of relative peace and stability. But we can recognize our mistakes and learn from them, to forge a better future for the galaxy."
Wintrean Diplomatic Mission
Zuophus, United Acarian Empires
Sector (5,-9)
"Your Imperial Majesty, we have sought out your nation to extend a hand of goodwill and peace," responded Bergli. "The Monarch of Wintreath seeks to reestablish relations with the nations of the galaxy, and given your relative proximity and our past relations, we decided to make contact with the Acarians once more."
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy
Near Lernaean Border
Sector (-14, 1)
"Very well then, we shall meet aboard our ship," Øye responded. "I will send you the proper docking instructions immediately."
She closed the connection, then gave orders to prepare the ship for the Lernaeans' arrival.
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy
Near Witchian Border
Sector (-9, -13)
The Witchians closed the connection before Magnusson even had a chance to give his farewell. How rude, he thought.
The convoy turned back, heading for home to report a failed mission.
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy
Near Aesir Border
Sector (-13, 10)
"Thank you," Lundgren told the Aesir captain. "We will leave our escort behind. And an audience with the Jarl himself would be excellent."
Personal Office of the Monarch
Frosthold Castle
Sector (-3, 3)
"Excellent," replied the Monarch to the Science ambassador's words. The two began a series of negotiations regarding Wintreath-Science relations.
-
High Cathedral of Spode, Industries Spirit, Avon
Yul Deacon strutted back and forth, staring at Jim Windwaver. Yul liked to think he ran the show but honestly no one listened to the preening peacock. " Why was I not informed? Malediction leading a full frontal assault on the Capital Building? When does he get there? We have to call him off!" Jim just lowered his hood and calmly responded. " Yul, please lower your voice. Dar and I agreed that this was the best course of action. Someone in the Council has betrayed the Avonite people. We must restore order and protect the faithful." Yul picked up a cup and threw it across the room. " THATS NOT OUR JOB! SPODEDAMNIT! YOU'LL TEAR THIS NATION APART! As head of the Evangelicals, I demand you call off the attack NOW!" Jim just stood up, put on his hood and softly said " As head of the Reconciliators, I deny you. Your outvoted. Now, I'm going to the Bastion of Spode. The Ecstatic's are gathering and our Ascensionists will join their numbers. We hope your Militants will join us. Good day, Yul."
BIGMT (Border and Internal Growth, Military Science Think-tank) HQ, Industries Spirit, Avon
Irk Flowchaser ran down the corridor as fast as he could, a scared scientist and panicking security officer in tow. Someone had set the androids berserk! They had already killed dozens of scientists and security personnel. They would break through the hastily erected barricades soon enough. The only thing that could save them now was the STINGER Mk2. Irk just hoped to Spode that the damn thing's targeting protocols had been fixed. The three of them reached the control module of the Stinger, the damn room was cramped and designed for 1 person, 3 was a squeeze. "Councilor Flowchaser, I keep telling you I barely know how to use this thing! I'm a scientist, not an engineer!" the scientist shouted as he wildly began to press buttons. "Right now, your the best we got! You can do this!.... whats your name?" The scientist took a deep breath and tried to calm himself "Dr Mot Larsen. Call me Larsen, please. Now how d..." He was interrupted by a laser beam striking dangerously close to the entrance of the room. "They're here!" the security guard screamed and he blasted away with his rifle, lasers filling the corridor. Irk read the nametag on the uniform, Roc Tangierson. If he wanted out of here alive, a scared and inexperienced scientist and a trigger happy security guard would be his best bet. Irk sighed as he opened fire with his laser pistol....
AgSci (Agricultural Science), Industries Spirit, Avon
Kir Darkcloak faced a different problem. It had been her brilliant idea to make AgSci an underground base. It had also been her idea to make it completely self-sufficient, so she had to make gardens that fed the base oxygen. What she did not plan on was someone overriding the security system to target the base personnel and then lock down the base and close the ventilation system. If the turrets didn't kill her then the oxygen deprivation would. She was trapped and she knew it. She had maybe a half an hour left? She opened her communicator, mercifully it still worked. She sent one last message to Irk.
"Irk... something happened in AgSci...I dont think I'll make it...." She started feeling dizzy " I dont have long.. I ..... I just want you to know..... the time I spent with you..... it was all I ever wanted to do..... I love you Irk...... good... goodbye" She hit send then closed her eyes, awating the inevitable....
The 2nd Bi-Annual meeting of AP ReC (Avonite Peoples Reconciliation Committee), Capital Building, Industries Spirit, Avon
Des raised her hand to shield herself from the man with the rifle in front of her. He was dressed in the uniform of a Conclave soldier but that should not be possible. Not that it mattered when he was the man with the gun. The Acensionists and Avon Dragoons tried to fight back but they all lay dead now. "LISTEN UP! The Conclave of the People have come back to tear down this farce of a nation! We will start with this traitor! Des Skyflyer! You are condemned to die by the rightful government to Avon! Spode have mercy on you..." the figure shouted as he picked up Skyflyer and dragged her into a room with a TV camera and a chair. Des shivered in fear, a million thoughts rushing through her head and none of them good.
Ryy Sharptalon held the shivering councilor in his hands, a wry smile on his face. Killing a Councilor on national TV? Damn, did he love his work.....
Dar Malediction raised his Dragoon Revolver, cocked the hammer and fired. The loud WHAM of air being pushed out of the way by the laser filed the entrance hall and an enemy soldier had a hole blown through his stomach. He gasped in disbelief for a second before dropping dead. Dar grabbed some energy cells from his belf and began to reload his revolver. "Charge, men! Find the Councilors! Storm the Capital!"
AES Perdition, in orbit around Avon
" FIRE!" Vice Admiral Jil Scarhealer screamed at her bridge crew. The ship shuddered as the Pendleton-class cruiser fired a full broadside. A Silent-Class Carrier received multiple hits and began listing. An Ensign called out to Scarhealer "Mam, the Vestigial just reported in! Rear Admiral Blower is dead!" Scarhealer slammed her control console. She did not need this. " Keep trying to get Admiral Hanover on Coms. And find the ringleader of this attack!" A Lieutenant called out, a look of disbelief on his face. " Mam... the lead enemy ship.... it's the Murphy" Vice Admiral Scarhealer turned to him,stunned. Then she turned to the Coms Officer. " Hail the Murphy. Tell him... tell him Scarhealer wants to talk. "
AES Blader, North of Kevarian Chain
Captain Breabbaker sent one final message to the Romulans and began the escort. As he did, a burst message from command came in.
BURST MESSAGE. END. HIGH COMMAND, AVON. END. AVON UNDER ATTACK. ENEMY UNKNOWN. END. COUNCIL STATUS UNKNOWN. END. UPDATE FORTHCOMING. END. ALL UNITS TO ASSUME PENITENT RAPTURE PROTOCOL. END.
Penitent Rapture? Damn... things must be really bad back in Avon if Penitent Rapture is in effect, thought Capitan Breabbaker...
Frosthold Planet, Avonite Diplomatic Convoy
Admiral Innsmoth nodded thoughtfully. " I see. I will refer your answer to our lead.." He was interrupted by urgent beeping from his quantum communicator. " Excuse me." He said and turned to read the burst message from high command. His face darkened as he closed it and turned back." Apologies." he said as he continued, a look of worry on his face. " There has been an attack in Avon, our capital."
-
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
AFS Draþor
Sector (-17, 18)
"Most fascinating," Mott responded to the Aesir ambassador. The punishment is rather harsh, but I suppose I see the reasoning. "When, do you think, will the convoy be ready to continue on?"
-
Ambassador Ulfír
AFS Draþor
Sector (-17, 18)
"Fascinating is indeed the word. How an Aesir can issue the order to massacre soldiers who stand down is beyond me. It's simply not our way." Ulfír looked down for a moment and appeared lost in thought, sadness plastered on his face.
-
Diplomatic Convoy to Witchians
Orbiting Protheus
"Hmm... we've never heard of the Romulans. What is your opinion of them? Should we meet them?" inquired Jones.
Wallace White - Diplomat to Aesir
Protheus
"I understand," responded White, "And thank you, ma'am. Right this way."
The honor guard led the group into the conference room, where Wallace sat at the head of the table. "Please, have a seat," he said. After everyone was settled, White said, "Now let's get to business. If you have any questions, feel free to ask anytime. What would you like to discuss first?"
Diplomatic Convoy to Science
Sector (-15, 6)
"Sir, there's a transmission coming in from Science!" shouted the comms officer. "They want to know where to go next on their galactic exploration!"
"I'll handle it!" said Chet. He quickly scrolled through ongoing diplomatic missions, and noticed New Witchmond just south of Lernaea. He replied, "Well, there is New Witchmond south of here. I personally haven't had any dealings with them, but we are undergoing negotiations with them. Now that we are on the subject, where do you recommend we go north or west of here? Happy exploring!"
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy
Near Lernaean Border
Sector (-14, 1)
"We're receiving docking instructions!" shouted the comms officer. "Prepare for docking!" announced the captain. After a couple of minutes, the two ships were successfully docked.
David was ready. He had trained all his life to deal with the Wintreans. His honor guard was standing at attention, ready to greet the Wintreans. All he had to do was wait.
Diplomatic Convoy en route Science
Near Aesir Border
Sector (-15, 8) (-15, 8 )
The convoy to Science, led by Claire Knight, slowly approached the Aesir border. Wallace had told her that she just had to identify herself. She started a transmission, "This is Lernaean ambassador Claire Knight, en route to Science. I believe that Ambassador Herjall notified you that we were coming. We request permission to travel within the Aesir border to reach Science quickly and safely."
-
Witchian Convoy to Learnaea
"As of my knowledge we had just met them shortly before I had left Toobek, so I'm currently unsure of our relation with them."
-
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
AFS Draþor
Sector (-17, 18)
"Hmm, interesting, and perhaps tragic as well," Mott remarked. Glad to see that this isn't standard Aesir policy, he thought.
"When do you think the convoy will be ready to move again?" he asked the Aesir ambassador.
Personal Office of the Monarch
Frosthold Castle, Wintrean Remnant
Sector (-3, 3)
After some time, the negotiations were concluded. "I will stay on Frosthold, then, and begin plans for constructing a representative office," Murphy responded.
SES Actualization
Special Task Force of the Scientific Exploration Fleet
Sector (-15, 6)
"Thank you very much," Bailey transmitted to the Lernaeans. "Unfortunately, there isn't much to the northwest. However, the Laurentian Empire lies to the northeast of here. I'll send you coordinates."
After transmitting the information to the Lernaeans, the task force began preparations for continuing their southward journey.
-
Ambassador Ulfír
AFS Draþor
Sector (-17, 18)
Ulfír snapped out of his momentary lapse. He realized that the Science captain had been asking when they would be leaving and bowed his head.
"My apologies. I didn't mean to make you ask the same question twice. We'll be ready to make our next jump within the next two hours.
"Now, have you any questions for me?"
Captain Dagfinn
AFS Odin
Sector (-13, 10)
Dagfinn nodded and said, "This way, Ma'am." He then gave the order to have the two battlecruisers turn around and head into the Empire with the Wintreath diplomat ship and ended their transmission.
The two ships powered down their weapons and followed Dagfinn's instructions.
Jarl Aragonn
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
"I apologize, Ambassador Glass, for not having a one on one with you, but time is short with me. I'm currently busy expanding my Empire and overseeing several projects.
"I saw this meet up as a chance to get to know one another since we'll all be staying aboard the same ship. Later, I'll have one on one time with each of you. Then, we can work out details and agreements.
"So, who goes first?"
Just then, the comm device on his left forearm alerted him to a new message which he promptly read.
"It would seem that the Allfather, in his wisdom, thought it best to have us talk to the Wintreans again. A diplomat from Wintreath will be here in about a week."
Ambassador Herjall
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
Herjall looked at all of the chairs. All were designed for humans and humanoids. She tilted her head a bit as she thought and came up with a solution to the problem: break off the arms and turn it around.
After doing so, she took her seat and wrapped her tail loosely around her legs. The small chair creaked and groaned loudly to complain about the large weight placed upon it. The Drekrekkr squad just stood behind Herjall.
After hearing Mr. White speak, she said, "I'm interested in this gang which continues to survive and operate under such an "effective" police force. What is everything you know about them?"
Space Station Folkvang
Sector (-16, 12)
The comms officer had been notified of the developments and given her orders.
"Lernaean convoy, this is the Aesir Space Station Folkvang. You are clear to travel through the Aesir Empire. Odinspeed, friend."
Space Station Eir
Sector (-18, 14)
Similarly to on Folkvang, the comms officer gave the Science convoy permission to pass through.
-
Industries Spirit Police Department, Precinct 27 HQ, Industries Spirit, Avon
ISPD Sgt Kyk Avonman
Avon burned. The debris from whatever happened up top hit Industries Spirit pretty hard. Then the attack came. They pushed hard at the cops but somehow the PD held there own. Sgt Avonman crouched down behind the front desk, peeking out to look for targets. Seeing nothing, he put his shotgun down and picked up the radio. "It's clear out front, no hostiles." A response confirmed that the rest of the station was clear. The city wide emergency warning sirens blared in the background. Just then, Sgt Kyk's radio cackled to life. "All units, be advised, Army High Command is under heavy assault, they are requesting Police backup. Precinct 27, respond, over!" Kyk cursed. If the army couldn't hold them back what were street cops with handguns and shotguns supposed to do? He picked up the radio and spoke "Roger, Precinct 27 code 2 to Army High Command!"
BIGMT
Councilor Irk Flowchaser
Irk dropped his communicator. Kir....he had to save her! But how when he was trapped here? An idea popped into his head. The STINGER MK1 was not very mobile, slow and lumbering. The prototype MK2, however, was supposed to be very agile, able to climb the sides of buildings. Supposedly. He turned to Dr Larsen and said. "Can you drive this thing outta here?" Larsen, the....plump man that he was, was sweating like a pig. " I can try, but I really... " a scream cut him short as Roc, the security guard took one in the chest. He wheezed for a second and then was still. " Go! NOW!" Irk shouted. Dr Larsen tapped the control console and the STINGER began moving, bashing a blast door open and stumbling out into a field near Industries Spirit. " Get us to AgSci, now!" Dr Larsen turned for a second, surprised, then tapped the console some more. " AgSci? I used to work there. I know the way..."
AFS Jormungandr
Captain Kli Waverider
"Oh, I am more than willing to let the Scientist go first." Captain Waverider said, letting the human go first.
AES Perdition, orbit around Avon
Admiral Jil Scarhealer
"Why, Fir. Why did you betray us?" Admiral Hanover looked sad for a split second on the screen, then turned back to Jil "It is you who betrayed the rightful government, Jil. The Conclave is and will be the rightful government. Stand down, and I will take you prisoner. Fight, and Spode will strike you down as Heathens." Admiral Scarhealer narrowed her eyes and said " You know I can't do that." And with that, the fighting resumed.
-
Combined Romulan-Acarian Fleet
North of Acarian Empire
3 Days From Remnant Border
Aedyn Zaegun just smiled as he was led down the corrider. "Our portion is doing well, conquering these planets on the way really helped the training of our troops. While there are a few issues back home, I do not think there will be any drastic change to our invasion."
Imperial Palace
Zuophus, United Acarian Empires
Sector (5,-9)
Zemas was notified by a servant about the well being of his heir. The servant also notified his wife.
"I'm sorry I can not attend this feast for longer. There are some important matters I have been notified of. Our diplomats will talk to you. You will see that we have kept the Wintrean embassy here on Zuophus."
Military HQ
Zuophus, United Acarian Empires
Sector (5,-9)
Due to the large army the Empire had made recently, HQ decided to create new legions within the army, each having special attributes.
Diplomatic Convoy
Allied States of Lernaea Border
"I would love some tea, and thanks for the hospitality." Katarina Marianne replied.
-
Wintrean reception committee for Avonite Enclave
Monarch's spaceport, Frosthold Planet
Sector (-3, 3)
"My deepest condolences," Jensen replied to Admiral Innsmoth's news. "That is terrible news. Is there anything we can do to help?"
Suddenly, his phone beeped. He took a look at it, and told the admiral, "It appears that the Monarch's meeting with the Science ambassador is approaching its end, and he will be receiving you soon."
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy
Near Lernaean Border
Sector (-14, 1)
Øye watched as the Lernaean ship docked. A Hvitt Riddaral honor guard had formed in the hangar to greet the Lernaean ambassador. As the Lernaean ambassador and his guard exited their craft, Øye walked up to them.
"Welcome aboard," she greeted the ambassador. She led them to a conference room.
Personal Office of the Monarch
Frosthold Castle
Sector (-3, 3)
"Excellent," the Monarch responded. "We will make accommodations for you. Meanwhile, the Frosthold Representative Office will send out a representative to your nation as soon as possible."
After the conclusion of their meeting, the Monarch began preparations for his meeting with the Avonite. He also gave orders for a diplomatic convoy to be sent to Science.
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy
Near Aesir Border
Sector (-13, 10)
The military escort turned back toward Wintreath, as the core diplomatic convoy followed the Aesir ships into hyperspace.
Wintrean Diplomatic Mission
Zuophus, United Acarian Empires
Sector (5,-9)
"That is a shame," replied Bergli. "I have greatly enjoyed our conversation, sir. And I thank you for so readily providing us with facilities to set up our office."
-
Frosthold Planet
Admiral Ark Innsmouth
Admiral Innsmouth gave a dry laugh, on without mirth. "Its a bit late for that, I think. I'll just have to hope Avon is ok. When shall we meet the Monarch?"
AgSci, Industries Spirit, Avon
Councilor Irk Flowchaser
"BASH IT AGAIN!" Irk shouted at Dr Larsen. The STINGER bashed the hanger doors again until finally it gave. Once it was smashed open, lasers from the hangers turrets and droids reflected off the STINGER as they opened fire. Irk smirked as the twin miniMAGuns made short work of them. Once it was clear the STINGER made its way into the hanger. That, however, was as deep into the base as it could go. There was still security about and Irk would never make it alone. He picked up his communicator and opened the Councilors Emergency Broadcast Frequency. " This is Councilor Irk Flowchaser. I need any reinforcements available at the AgSci HQ ASAP. Out."
Councilor Kir Darkcloak
Kir gasped at the sudden influx of oxygen. She was just about to pass out when air flowed into her room. Her communicator buzzed on the floor where she left it. Picking it up, she saw the message from Irk and smiled. Thank Spode for that man, she though....
AvCom, Avon High Command, Industries Spirit, Avon
ISPD Sgt Kyk Avonman
"They are already dead. AvCom is secure, repeat, AvCom is secure." Sgt Avonman talked into his radio. Damn soldiers calling for police help already cleared out the AvCom. Just then his radio cackled to life and a emergency message was played. " This is Councilor Irk Flowchaser. I need any reinforcements available at the AgSci HQ ASAP. Out." Kyk thought to himself. AgSci? That was near AvCom. He racked his shotgun as he gathered his officers to head to AgSci....
High Cathedral Of Spode, Industries Spirit, Avon
Head Evangelical Yul Deacon
Yul fumed. Malediction and Windwavers actions would throw a spanner into his plans. How was the Conclave supposed to rise again if the SC fought it. At least he knew where Windwaver would be. As for Malediction, he just hoped the Merc was as tough as he claimed. He opened a line to his Militants. "We have been betrayed. Heretics who seek to dilute the Message Of Spode have gone to hide in their heretical Bastion Of Spode. Wipe them out."
Capital Building, Industries Spirit, Avon
Councilor Jan Lightbringer
"So nice to see you brother Malediction. How has your day been?" "Alas, these are trying times indeed brother Lightbringer. Are you ok?" "That depends, Malediction. Are you with them?" Jan gestured to the dead Conclave soldiers. Malediction shook his head. "Good. Thank you, Dar." Jan said as he lowered the rifle he had pointed at Maledictions face. Dar did likewise with his revolver. "Where is the rest of the Council, Councilor?" Jan sighed. "As far as I know, Kir and Irk were at BIGMT and AgSci and Des was with AP ReC. Art..." he felt his throat go dry "Art is dead. We need to find Des." Dar nodded and gestured forward with his revolver.....
-
Diplomatic Convoy to Witchians
Orbiting Protheus
"I see. Thank you for this information. What would you like to discuss next?" inquired Jones.
Wallace White - Diplomat to Aesir
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
White was horrified. The ambassador broke the bloody chair! He tried not to show his horror and gave a smile. He tried to get it off his mind and turned his attention toward her question. Before answering, he asked, "Would you like us to build some chairs to accommodate the Aesir? You could send us some schematics and I'll get them under production right away."
He paused and waited for an answer also mentally preparing for his answer about the gangs.
Diplomatic Convoy to Science
Sector (-15, 6)
After the transmission ended, Chet sent word back to ISA that they would be going northeast toward the Laurentian Empire.
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy
Near Lernaean Border
Sector (-14, 1)
David followed Øye toward the conference room, thanked the ambassador, and sat down in the conference room, waiting for the discussion to begin.
Diplomatic Convoy en route Science
Near Aesir Border
Sector (-15, 8 )
Claire thanked the comms officer and proceeded toward Science.
ISA Headquarters
Protheus
Sector Sector (-18, 1)
Morrow got word that Chet and his crew would be heading out toward the Laurentian Empire, and gave them the go.
Garriot began receiving a transmission and called out. "Sir, the diplomat to the Witchians just checked in and told us about the Romulans. Should we send a convoy there too?"
Morrow replied, "Sure! The more people we meet, the better."
Shortly after, a diplomatic convoy was sent out the the Romulans.
-
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
AFS Draþor
Sector (-17, 18)
"No, no other questions," Mott replied. "I think I should get ready for our departure soon."
Science Diplomatic Mission to the Aesir
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
"Thank you," Glass told the Avonite ambassador. "As our relations with the Aesir are already strong, we were hoping to establish an embassy and thus a permanent diplomatic presence. We have brought along the necessary resources to do so."
Diplomatic Convoy to Lernaea
Near Aesir Border
Sector (-15, 17)
"Thank you," Rogers transmitted to the Aesir space station. The convoy once again entered hyperspace as they journeyed toward Lernaea.
Personal Office of the Monarch
Frosthold Castle, Wintrean Remnant
Sector (-3, 3)
After some discussion with imperial government in Vivaldi, Murphy began preparations for the establishment of the newly established Science Institute at Frosthold. With the tract of land given by the Monarchy, other transport ships of the diplomatic mission began landing with building materials as they began construction.
Special Task Force of the Scientific Exploration Fleet
Near Witchian Border
Sector (-15, -13)
As the Task Force approached where the Lernaeans had told them was the Witchian border, Bailey ordered them to halt. They began transmitting a modified first contact message, similar to the one sent to the Lernaeans.
-
Head Security Tower
Gypite, Toobek
New Witchmond
Ambassador Zentren smiled, "Wonderful! We will be glad to have your support in the coming invasion. I'm sure that Fleet Praetors will gladly send a contingent of officers here to Toobek to discuss the details, logistics support, and other necessary things, like fleet deployments along the front and such."
Zentren activated his communicator, "Get me the Tal Shiar please, commander. We have good news."
Tal Shiar Headquarters
Capitoline Senatorial Complex
Romulus, Romulan Star Empire
"General Trex! Message from Toobek and Ambassador Zentren. New Witchmond is has agreed to cooperate with the alliance in the coming war with the Remnant! Shall I signal General D'Deridex's flagship to hold for a communique from you, sir?" the lieutenant looked up from his station at the General.
"Make it so, Lieutenant. Route the General to the command desk!"
"Yes sir!"
Communications Records
IRW Venator Stellarum
North of Kevarian Chain
Commander Gela paused after receiving her Tal Shiar briefing, and then spoke, confused, "Colonel, you want us to interfere? I believe that we're making progress with the legitimate authorities... why should we aid the winning side of this war? How are we even supposed to find that out? Are we to be assigned Tal Shiar operatives?"
The Tal Shiar colonel on the other side of the channel did not look thrilled with the response. "Your orders are to comply with command. Leave the rest to us."
Combined Romulan-Acarian Fleet
North of Acarian Empire
3 Days From Remnant Border
"I'm glad to hear it. Shall we go through the initial sector maps for the fleet deployments of the invasion?"
"Sir! Sir! Urgent news from the High Command!! New Witchmond will gladly join our invasion of the Wintreath Remant!! More information coming later!!"
-
Witchian Invasion Fleet,
7 Days away from Remnant Border
As of Ben having to stay at Toobek in case if any other diplomats arrived at Witchian borders and Al needing to look over security at New Witchmond's borders, Ben assigned their best general, Krimlo Estem, to lead the invasion force. The force consisted of over 250 frigates (Inquisitors and other models), 80 scouts (Auroras and other models), and about 200 cargo ships holding about 5 walkers and 5,000 infantry each. They kept on their way, going as fast as possible to catch up with the other fleets already heading out to the Wintrean Remnant.
Diplomatic Convoy to Learnaea
Orbiting Protheus
"Actually, I'm at a loss for other things to talk about, I'm kind of new to being a diplomat. Do you know anything else that we need to discuss?" The scout answered.
-
Wintrean scout ship Fjalar
Near Wintrean border, Wild Space
Sector (5, -7)
Captain Mikkel Hansen was one of the countless civilian captains hired by the Ministry of Integration to explore nearby star systems and report on their potential for colonization. His small but trusty ship, the Fjalar and its crew of five were once again heading out into the unknown after taking a well-deserved break back home in the Realm.
The exploring, of course, wouldn't begin in earnest until a few weeks later. At this point, they were just checking up on already-explored star systems in wild space as they made their way out of known territories. Hansen checked their next stop on the Ministry's dossier. Friendly, but uninclined to join the Frozen Realm. The Ministry says to leave them be, at least for now.
He sat back into his captain's chair as he relaxedly watched the vortex of hyperspace drop back into starlines and then finally dots in the black backdrop of space. "Everything as expected?" he asked the astrogator. "Are we ready to move on?"
"Yes, I think so-" she began, then stopped.
"What is it?" Then he saw. Several ships, on the viewscreen. Not just small spacecraft, like what the locals were supposed to have, but large ones, military capital ships. I'm not paid enough for this...
"What are you waiting for? Get us out of here!" he commanded.
Once the ship was once again in the comforting tunnels of hyperspace, Hansen asked, "Can we tell who they were?"
"Let me see," the astrogator replied. A few minutes later, she said, "From what I can tell from both historical and State Ministry records, their markings seem to match those of the Royal Armada of the United Acarian Empires."
"United Acarian Empires..." he spoke, trying to remember where that was. "Didn't the Monarchy send some ambassadors there last month? We have to get this back to Frostlake."
Wintrean reception committee for Avonite Enclave
Monarch's spaceport, Frosthold Planet
Sector (-3, 3)
"The sun is already low," replied Jensen. "Would tomorrow morning be agreeable?"
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy
Near Lernaean Border
Sector (-14, 1)
"Okay, then," Øye said. "I'll keep this simple. Monarch Wintermoot is seeking relations with other nations of the galaxy. To facilitate this, we have sent diplomatic convoys out to various nations, such as your own. We hope to open friendly relations with your people."
Meeting of the Riksråd
Frosthold Castle
Sector (-3, 3)
The Monarch called a partial meeting of the Riksråd, in response to reports from the Jarl of Integration.
"In the past week, we've been receiving a remarkably high number of reports from our hyperspace scouts of territories directly to our galactic south being occupied by Acarian forces," the Jarl of Integration began. "More discreet and thorough scouts have been sent out, and have verified this as truth." He took out a holoprojector, and turned it on, showing a map. "The red dots are sightings or reports of Acarian military action." The series of dots clearly formed into a line heading straight for Wintreath.
"But negotiations with the Acarians have been going splendidly!" Director-General Björk exclaimed. He was attending in place of Jarl Jensen, who was currently meeting with the Avonites.
"Have we communicated with our mission there lately?" one of the Thanes asked from the back of the room.
"No," Björk replied, "I could do so now, if you all wish."
"Do it," Wintermoot said. Björk left the room.
Half an hour later, Björk returned.
"How was it?" the Jarl of Integration asked.
"We've failed to establish any contact with the delegation at all," Björk responded. "The signal appears to be jammed, even when we tried multiple, even unconventional methods of establishing contact."
The room suddenly filled with murmurs.
"Wait!" Björk shouted, quieting the room. "That's not all. The jamming technique seems to be that used by the Hvitt Riddaral. Follows the latest SIGINT handbook to the letter, it seems."
The murmurs only grew louder.
"Well, either we have someone outside Wintreath who clearly knows what they're doing, or we have some rogue elements within the Realm," the Jarl of the Defense remarked. "Considering how Acaria is already committing to aggressive actions right outside our border, I wouldn't rule out them doing it and framing it on us."
"We'll just have to wait and hope that our delegation is fine," Wintermoot said. To the Jarl of Defense, he ordered, "Prepare the Frozen Realm for a potential attack on our southern border. Focus defenses on the location of the projected attack, but call an overall semi-mobilization of the military, just in case."
FROSTLAKE HERALD
HMS Kestar Completes Shakedown Cruise
FROSTLAKE CITY - In a press release early morning Standard Time, the Hvitt Riddaral has announced that the Kestar is now in military service. The largest ship to be constructed since the Third Galactic Civil War, it will serve as the Navy's flagship...
From: WHR MilIntel
To: MinDef
Encryption Key: ********************
Decryption Key: *****************************
UPDATED CONTINGENCY PLANS FOR POTENTIAL ATTACKS ON WINTREATH
...Based on the above conclusion that Acaria is not capable of committing a full-scale attack on Wintreath, Acaria would likely seek out allies for such an attack... Considering that the Witchians have rejected our offer of diplomatic relations, in the real world, they are highly suspicious and potential allies. Other possible allies, due to culture, past history, and astrographical proximity, include the Romulans, while less likely, but still possible allies include the Aesir and the Avonites...
-
Witchian Fleet Flagship,
Meeting Room
"...I don't care what they think! Ben and Al may know what they are doing in their own specialties, but in combat, that's where I know best!" Krimlo Estem yelled at Sithus Lin, one of the squadron leaders. "If we want any chance of winning this war, we have to let our allies attack when they do and we come in and strike the remnant right where they least expect it!"
"But sir, if we do that, that would mean we will have to take a 10 day detour!" Sithus complained.
"No matter, this is the best way of combat, I'm sure our allies can hold their own during that time."
"Fine, I'll inform that diplomat of our new route." Sithus sighed, starting up the communications link with the departing diplomat.
-
Ambassador Ulfír
AFS Draþor
Sector (-17, 18)
"I understand," he said as he stood. "If you don't mind, I'd like to stay aboard your ship for the duration of the next jump to help me grow better suited to interacting with your people. Is this acceptable?"
Jarl Aragonn
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
"Of course, and land shall be assigned to you on Drekiheimr, our capitol world, within the next 72 hours. You convoy will be directed to leave for our capitol and begin construction once everything is in order," he assured Glass then turned to Kli. "Your turn."
Ambassador Herjall
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
"Yes, seating for myself and others of my race would be most welcome. I'll have basic schematics sent over for you to do with as you wish.
Now, about those Gobblers..."
-
AgSci, Industries Spirit, Avon
ISPD Sgt Kyk Avonman
Well, you don't see that everyday, thought Sgt Avonman, staring at the devastation but mostly at the giant.... Thing. Councilor Flowchaser stood on top looking down. " Thank Spode your here! I need your help! A rather fat scientist clambered up behind Flowchaser. " The security turrets have activated, we need to clear it out and find Kir! I mean Councilor Darkcloak! We need to hurry! What's your name, Sgt? " Sgt Avonman turned to his men then back to the Councilor " Sgt Kyk Avonman. Let's go save the Councilor! "
Councilor Kir Darkcloak
Damn, did she want out. This place was starting to feel like her tomb. She just hoped Irk could save her...
Capital Building, Industries Spirit, Avon
Councilor Des Skyflyer
"Don't.... Don't do this!" Des Skyflyer said between panicked breaths. Ryy Sharptalon held his gun at her face. He turned to the camera. "Your Council lies dead or dying! People of Avon! Join the rightful government and be spared, stand against us and be destroyed!" Sharptalon gestured to kill the broadcast. He then turned to the woman who paid him. "Convincing, Skyflyer. You put on quite a performance." Des stood up and dusted herself. " I've spent years living in fear. I know how to fake it. It's almost over. I must thank you for your service. " Ryy laughed and reported "I'll do whatever I'm paid to." Des nodded "I know. Which is why I don't feel guilty about this." She raised the gun she picked up and shot Sharptalon. He stumbled back and tried to return fire but found that he couldn't as everyone else in the room was shooting at him. "Good bye, Ryy. Time for me to finish the fight." Des snuck out the backdoor as her men fired.
Ryy Sharptalon
He held his gut. He wouldn't last long. He knew it. At least Skyflyer wasn't as good a shot as she is a schemer. He could hear his former comrades advancing on his position. He heard the shots. Only he wasn't dead. And the shots were distinctive. He opened his eyes to see the barrel of what he thought an antique in his face.
Vigilant Emeritus Dar Malediction
Dar held his Dragoon on the dying enemy in front of him. The other soldiers in the room had been shooting at him and one evidently got him. "Who are you?" Dar asked. The soldier wheezed and replied "Ryy..." Dar kneeled down but kept his revolver trained on him. "Why were they shooting you?" Ryy grimaced then chuckled "Because she told them to." Dar's eyes narrowed. "Who is she?" Ryy turned to Jan who was standing behind Dar. "You know. You used to work with her. She has been playing you from the start. The trade convoy, Art, Milesight, all this was her plan." His face started to turn limp "Skyflyer...." And with that, Ryy was dead.
Dar turned to Lightbringer. "Now what?" Jan felt his face darken. "Now we find Des Skyflyer."
Bastion of Spode, Avon
Vox Evangelical Yul Deacon
Yul Deacon watched the Bastion burn. The Reconciliators inside were dead, along with that annoying Windwaver. Hopefully Malediction was dead in the Capital Building. No matter, things were almost over. Time to get in touch with Skyflyer...
Frosthold Planet
Admiral Ark Innsmoth
Admiral Innsmoth nodded. "Yes, I suppose it's late. I'll head back to the Strawberry Swing, it will give me a chance to find out what happened in Avon.
AFS Jormungandr
Captain Kli Waverider
Kli nodded " Thank you, Jarl. My nation, The Enclave, would be interested in establishing diplomatic relations and trade with your nation. Such an agreement would be beneficial for both parties. "
-
Witchian Fleet Flagship,
Meeting Room,
17 days from Remnant border (-11, -13)
Shortly after Krimlo sent Sithus to inform Zentren of the new route, a transmission from a fleet several sectors away, "Hello? We are the Scientific Exploration Fleet. I assume you are the Witchians?"
"Yes, our fleet is part of New Witchmond," he replied. "Although, how do you know who we are?"
-
Wintreath Remnant
Sector (5,-6)
Thandio
The Imperskiy Razvedchik (Imperial Intelligence Officer) was observing the planet and the other systems around it. the important systems in this sector were Dusa, Thandio, and Trilia. The officer marked that Thandio was of utmost importance, as it contained a large manufacturing industry. He was also observing the scale of defenses. The population of Thandio was very high, which might be hard to fight in.
Another concerning note was of the high number of space ships being transported to the area, and the construction of new defenses. Troops were also arriving.Curiously, there were a number going towards Trilia as well, but the officer was unable to gain access to the planet.
Dusa was fairly important for its raw resources. The starports however, were lacking compared to starports of planets such as Thandio.
Using a secret broadcast channel, he notified the military fleet of the information he uncovered.
Wintreath Remnant
Sector (6,-6)
Dara
The other Imperskiy Razvedchik was observing the neighboring sector. There were a couple thousand of spies already within the Remnant, disguised as citizens annexed into the Remnant, or refugees from conquests seeking safety in the core worlds. Little did they know the Galaxy will be soon dragged into a huge conflict.
The population of Dara was very high, as it was an urban planet, containing a huge sprawling city that covers most, if not all, of the planet. Large scale city fighting tactics might have to be used, as well as a huge blockade. Troops were pouring into the city as well as a large number of ships. His other comrades in the Intelligence community were also reporting this mobilization of the border. It was most worrying.
He noted that Antis was behind of tech, although it is receiving tech support from the Remnant to improve its tech level. It will be easier to take.
Varno was a jungle planet, but contained much of the military stationed on the border. Large military bases were built there. It would be of much strategic importance to the fleet if they took this planet to derive the Remnant of military accommodation.
He reported his findings to the fleet via the secret broadcast channel, which takes longer than normal to transmit to maintain utmost secrecy.
Combined Romulan-Acarian Fleet
North of Acarian Empire
3 Days From Remnant Border
"That is good news" Aedyn Zaegun replied.
He turned his attention to the galactic map. "According to our spies, there are 6 systems of importance in sectors (5,-6) and (6,-6). Thandio is important, due to its manufacturing industry. We have suspicions of a secret base on Trilia, but our spy was unable to confirm this."
Aedyn Zaegun focused the galactic map on sector (6,-6).
"Here, we have the important systems of Darna and Varno. Antis will be easier to take. Darna is a large city, so we will have to deploy city fighting tactics. Varno on the other hand, contains a large military presence."
"We have heard worrying news as well. The Wintreath Remnant has somehow spotted us, and is mobilizing the border. That means, we must strike quickly. Most of our forces should be committed to Darna, Varno, and Thandio. They will be important for our effort, as it damages the Remnant effort. Do you have any suggestions?"
Imperial Palace
Zuophus, United Acarian Empires
Sector (5,-19)
A diplomat in the feast was informed via a secret transmission that war should be declared. The diplomat said, "Follow me, I shall show you to the embassy." He was soon leading Bergli to the embassy, which was located in the foreign quarter of the city, which was close to the imperial palace.
-
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
AFS Draþor
Sector (-17, 18)
"Yes, that would be excellent," Mott told Ambassador Ulfír. "We would be glad to have you aboard. Would you like to leave now or do you have some things to take care of before leaving?"
Science Diplomatic Mission to the Aesir
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
"Thank you, Jarl," Glass said. As the Avonite ambassador began speaking, he excused himself and left the conference room, ready to take the convoy to Drekiheimr.
Special Task Force of the Scientific Exploration Fleet
Near Witchian Border
Sector (-15, -13)
"How do you know who we are?" the Witchian asked.
"We have just completed negotiations with the Allied States of Lernaea," responded Bailey. "We asked for directions in this part of the galaxy, and they directed us to your territories."
Diplomatic Convoy to Lernaea
Near Southern Aesir Border
Sector (-15, 9)
The diplomatic convoy once again entered wild space as they departed from the territories of the Aesir, heading toward Lernaea. The mission sent one final thank-you message to the Aesir, and continued on their journey.
-
AgSci, Industries Spirit, Avon
Councilor Irk Flowchaser
"Don't worry, Kir, we'll get you out of there!" Irk said as he looked for a way to open the door. Dr Larsen waddled over, out of breath. Sgt Avonman was next to him. Dr Larsen spoke "Hang on, I remember how to open the door! If we use a power surge to blow the door fuse then the door should open!" Sgt Avonman nodded " My officers are deeper in the facility, looking for survivors. I can escort Larsen." Racking his shotgun as he spoke. Irk nodded and they went off, Larsen slowly leading the way. Irk looked around, trying to see another way in.
Failing to see anything, he spoke to Kir. "Kir, are you sure you're not hurt?" Kir's muffled reply came. "Oh, I'm just peachy, Irk! I love being a second away from death and seeing my colleagues gunned down! What the hell is going on out there?" "Calm down, Kir, everything will be fine as soon..." Irk was interrupted by the door opening. He rushed in to see Kir almost break down crying. Irk gently embraced her as she sobbed. "Your OK, now Kir, your OK, your safe now, your safe..." He barely noticed Avonman and Larsen come in behind him. "Something happened outside, Kir. Avon is under attack. BIGMT is gone. We need to move." Kir nodded wordlessly. Irk turned just before the WHAM of a laser discharge made him jump.
Sgt Avonman dropped, clutching a hole in his back, his shotgun sliding on the floor near Irk. Dr Larsen was pointing the laser pistol he had taken from Avonman's duty belt at Kir. Irk shouted as he jumped for the shotgun, then screamed as he felt a laser strike him in the arm. He dropped to the floor, just out of reach of the shotgun. Kir stood frozen, staring at Larsen and the psychotic expression on his face as he slowly took a step towards her, then another.
"Kir Darkcloak. You two faced bitch. I was hoping to kill you. It saddened me when the Councilor ordered me to BIGMT. I really had to convince myself not to just kill you here but it seems that my patience has been rewarded. You played us and the Shepard's Church during the war. Now we make you pay. " He aimed the pistol right at her head. He failed to notice Sgt Avonman reach for a backup piece on his ankle until Avonman raised the gun to shoot Larsen. Larsen whirled around, firing his pistol a split second before Avonman. Larsen's laser struck Avonman in the back while Avonman's just barely missed Larsen. It gave Irk the chance to lunge for the shotgun, though. He grabbed it in his good hand, aimed it vaguely in Larsen's direction then fired. It knocked Irk back as the scattered laser knocked bits of Larsen's teeth and brains out. Larsen'swounds hit the floor, dead. Kir sprang to Irk's side, checking his wounds. A couple of cops rushed into the room, guns drawn, then tended to Sgt Avonman. Kir looked around, there were survivors. She ran scenarios in her head, trying to figure things out...
Capital Building, Industries Spirit, Avon
Councilor Jan Lightbringer
Jan stood with Dar Malediction, listening to the Confessor telling them about the Bastion. Jim Windwaver was dead, a large part of the Reconciliators were dead but some survived and made their way to the capital. What really surprised Jan was that it was Evangelical Militants that were responsible. Yul Deacon was obviously working for whoever was behind everything. Malediction was furious. "We need to find Deacon. We need to kill him. Him and Des Skyflyer!" Jan shook his head. "They are expecting us. They know we're going to retaliate. Plus, what do we have to prove that Des is involved? The vague word of a dead enemy. Not exactly concrete! I don't think she's involved, my money's on Darkcloak. She's a cold conniving women, it makes more sense! Look, Dar, I know you're upset. I know you want to strike back but we should hold, consolidate and recon! We need to know more!" Dar reluctantly agreed.
High Cathedral of Spode, Industries Spirit, Avon
Councilor Des Skyflyer
The years in a Conclave prison had wrecked her. 20 years. They tore her personality apart, bit by bit. Then they fixed her, remade her into their image. The Des Skyflyer that everyone loved, the peace loving polite stateswoman, she was dead, she died in the dungeons of the Conclave. The woman that emerged was emotionally empty, barely alive, meant to be a puppet to the Conclave. But they had failed to break her completely. The shell of a being still had some agency. It had been her plan to take over the Enclave. Not for the Conclave but for herself. The memories swirled in her head as she awoke.
She was in the cage she slept in, naked and hands tied behind her. After every thing they had done to her this was the only way she could sleep. She nimbly untied herself then picked open the cage lock, stepping out. Yul Deacon knocked on the door then entered as she did so. He had been a prisoner to but had reacted differently. She had latched onto the punishment, he began to covet everything he missed. He walked over to her. "I was about to let you out. Why you keep up with this even after we now control the Conclave is beyond me." Skyflyer looked over her shoulder, staring at Deacon. "I must. It's that simple. I need the routine or I go insane. How is our position here?" Deacon took a step towards the still naked Skyflyer. "We will be fine. My Militants and your soldiers can hold the line. Kir and Irk are still alive, so are Jan and Dar. Kir and Irk have rallied the Police Department and hold AgSci and AvCom. Jan and Dar hold the Capital with the Vigilantes and some Enclave soldiers. Everyone is holding fast. But never mind that, how are you? I know what this is doing to you." Des bit her lip. "I'm fine." Yul Deacon nodded skeptically but stayed quiet. Des turned towards him, fully exposing herself. There was one final thing that was done to her in prison. She was one of the few females and all the guards were male. Every single morning they used her. Now she needed it to function properly. Yul Deacon nodded.
-
Ambassador Ulfír
AFS Draþor
Sector (-17, 18)
The ambassador stood. "I am ready to leave when you are."
-
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
AFS Draþor
Sector (-17, 18)
"Very well then," Mott replied. He lead the ambassador onto the shuttle, and they left to return to the Science ship.
-
Diplomatic Convoy to Acarian Fleet
Allied States of Lernaea Border
Rananyus Nosus signaled for the honor guard to prepare some tea for the diplomat. "No problem," she responded, "Now, what shall we discuss?"
Diplomatic Convoy to Witchians
Orbiting Protheus
"If it's fine with you and your people, I would like to begin constructing an embassy at Toobek," replied Jones. "Is that satisfactory?"
Wallace White - Diplomat to Aesir
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
"Okay, production will be underway! So, about the Gobbers..." replied Wallace. "There was a time when they were... unsatisfactory. At that time, we were in an economic depression, and criminals who stole from the government distributed profits among the people, earning a status of 'helping the poor.' Eventually, they grouped together and formed a strict code of conduct bound by loyalty to each other in the brotherhood. Once Lernaea was out of its... situation... they moved into more serious crimes. At this point, our government was building itself up again, recovering from the depression. For the next year, most people part of a greater organization roamed free, as we were focused on rebuilding the government, but once we were where we needed to be, we started cracking down on chaos. Lernaea needed to become a better place, so we cracked down on crime. Nowadays, the Gobblers mostly stay in the background, still having influence, but mainly cooperate with the government."
Wallace realized he was speaking for quite some time and took a couple seconds to catch his breath. He asked, "What is it like on your world?"
Diplomatic Convoy to Laurentian Empire
After around a day of travel, Chet arrived at the borders of the Laurentian Empire.
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy
Near Lernaean Border
Sector (-14, 1)
"I see. Thanks for reaching out to us. What would you like to discuss?" asked David.
-
Head Security Tower
Gypite, Toobek
New Witchmond
Romulan Tal Shiar agents and tacticians began shuttling to the surface as soon as the New Witchmond decided to enter the war, but discreetly. Romulan officers were beginning to meet with Wichmond officials in order to give the latest war effort briefings to the newest ally in the impending war against the Wintrean Remnant, a war to destroy the last vestiges of the old, oppressive galactic regime of the Wintrean Empire...
Tal Shiar Headquarters
Capitoline Senatorial Complex
Romulus, Romulan Star Empire
General Trex was continuing to monitor the Tal Shiar operations around the clock, but by far the most time consuming operation was the jamming of Wintrean Remnant signals to their diplomatic delegation on Acaria.
"Commander, ensure that jamming operations continue to appear as though they are from hawks within the Command Staff of the Wintrean Military. I don't care who you frame, just make it some warmongering general or politician. I believe framing Speaker Leirvik of the Underhusen would suit our needs quite well... after all, he's been a staunch opponent of diplomacy with the galaxy." the general paused and smiled. Ahh, playing political opponents off of each other for the benefit of the Empire. Let the Remnant come crashing down, at war with itself. Subversion and deceit, not overt interference, is always the preferable course of action...
Communications Records
IRW Venator Stellarum
Southern Avonite Enclave
Commander Gela walked back out onto the bridge. "Signal the Avonite captain. We'll follow them to the Avonite homeworld immediately."
Combined Romulan-Acarian Fleet
North of Acarian Empire
3 Days From Remnant Border
"I suggest, Fleet Admiral, that the Romulan section of the fleet concentrate our forces on destroying Thandio and Trilia... we'll have a few surprises for the Remnant. You may have the Darna and Varno... I would suggest blockading Darna so as to bypass the high casualty numbers from fighting on a planet city... but Varno, on the other hand, should be taken as quickly as possible and converted for our own use as a staging area. Does this sound like an acceptable plan?"
-
BURST MESSAGE. END. HIGH COMMAND, AVON. END. STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARED BY AUTHORITY OF COUNCILOR KIR DARKCLOAK. END. COUP D'ETAT ATTEMPTED BY UNKNOWN FORCES. END. ALL FORCES TO DECLARE LOYALTY TO THE COUNCIL LED BY KIR DARKCLOAK. END. CONTINUE PERTINENT RAPTURE. END.
"This is Councilor Jan Lightbringer from the Capital Building in Avon. This is an Emergency Broadcast on all signals. A Coup D'etat was attempted by unknown forces earlier today. Councilor Art Marshwalker died defending Avon. A state of emergency has been declared by myself and all Avonite Armed Forces are to declare loyalty to me. End transmission.
Followers of Spode, hear us now! You have been betrayed! An attempt was made earlier today to destroy our Council and the Commonwealth! Jim Windwaver was killed defending the God That Will Come and the Reconciliators are dead! Councilor Des Skyflyer and Vox Evangelical Yul Deacon stand with Spode against the Heathens, join us now and pledge Loyalty To Des Skyflyer!
Southern Avonite Enclave, AES Blader
Captain Gry Breadbakker
" Very Well, let's go ahead to Avon!" Captain Breadbakker cheerfully said, trying not to sound nervous. The flood of messages from AvCom, the Capital and the High Cathedral painted a horrible picture. He just hoped there still was an Avon to return to...
Frosthold Planet
Admiral Ark Innsmouth
"Alright, I'll go back to my ship, Jarl Jensen. I would like a meeting with the Monarch as soon as possible. Thank you." Admiral Innsmouth turned and left Jarl Jensen. Diplomat Jik Lowfloater approached Jarl Jensen next.
Diplomat Jik Lowfloater
"Good evening, Jarl Jensen. My name is Jik Lowfloater, I'm a diplomat for the Enclave. Might I ask that you allow me to meet the Monarch first, before Admiral Innsmouth? He's not much of a diplomat and I worry he might not be diplomatic with the Monarch so I would like to see the Monarch first to lay out our offer. Thank you and please consider it." Lowfloater left and an Ecstatic took his place once he was out of sight.
Ecstatic Sul Gravemind
"Your being lied to. I know communications are being jammed here. I have answers for you. I just need to see the Monarch first tomorrow before anyone else." And with that, Gravemind slid away.
-
Witchian Fleet Flagship,
Meeting Room,
17 days from Remnant border (-11, -13)
"The Learneans? I don't know much about them. Well anyways, I'm Krimlo Estem, nice to meet you."
Diplomatic Convoy to Learnaea
Orbiting Protheus
"I would be glad to accept, but it's not in my permission to establish embassies. If you would like, I can escort you to our lands to have your request considered by our government."
-
Ambassador Ulfír
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
Sector (-17, 18)
The Ambassador had to crouch to get into the shuttle but just had to stoop his head once aboard.
"Are the doors and corridors in your ship all this small?"
Jarl Aragonn
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
The Jarl acknowledged the Science ambassador as he left then turned his attention to the Avonite.
"I'm listening."
Ambassador Herjall
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
She nodded as she listened, intrigued by the history lesson. When it came to be her turn to answer a question, she sat up more and crossed her arms.
"My world is a colony near the outer edges of Aesir space. It's a humble place with plenty of farmland and work dýr to supply the Empire with vital food supplies.
If our capitol planet is what you're interested in hearing about, I can describe that world as well."
-
Combined Romulan-Acarian Fleet
North of Acarian Empire
3 Days From Remnant Border
"That plan seems acceptable. We must go back to our fleet, war is about to be declared back home. We shall give the signal to jump into the enemy system." Aedyn Zaegun replied.
Diplomatic Convoy
Allied States of Lernaea Border
"Acaria would like to open communications with your nation and allow free trade between us. Thus for now, Acaria requests an embassy and a free trade agreement." said Katarina Marianne
-
Communications Records
IRW Venator Stellarum
Avon, Avonite Enclave
The Venator Stellarum slowed to a full stop in orbit of the Avonite Homeworld. Communication frequencies were overloaded with frantic messages, and the communications station couldn't make heads or tails of it.
"Commander, there's just too much information. We can't track it all, but it appears that there has been terrorist activity and internal strife in the Avonite Capitol District. Other than that, we have only concluded that there is a great amount of religious tension within the Avonite Enclave, which appears to be one of the central causes of this strife." the communications officer on duty stated.
Commander Gela paused for a moment, thinking. How on Romulus did the Tal Shiar think us capable of doing this? Are their resources really stretched this thin? No. This must be a coordinated effort, with the Stellarum as just one piece of many operating in the dark. She cleared her throat, "Hail the AES Blader. Inform them that we would like to visit the planet, preferably with some of their crew as guides."
Combined Romulan-Acarian Fleet
North of Acarian Empire
2 Days From Remnant Border
"By your command, Fleet Admiral." And with that, Praetor Relatrex pressed the ship-wide communications beacon on his wrist. "This is the Fleet Praetor. Prepare the fleet for engagement. Signal the fleet to increase preparedness to Level 4. All personnel not essential for the operation of the fleet are to proceed to their assault decks. Pro Imperio Romulano. Relatrex out."
"Admiral, may our battles be filled with victory and minimal casualties. We will await your flagship's signal before we initiate the final jump across the Remnant border." And with that, Relatrex escorted the Acarians back to their shuttle, only this time the thousands of troops previously at attention were marching swiftly onto landing craft to check their equipment and review their plans of attack...
-
Wintrean Diplomatic Mission
Zuophus, United Acarian Empires
Sector (5, -19)
Bergli entered the embassy. He contacted the Wintrean ship orbiting the planet, asking them to send down more materials to set up the embassy. He also asked them to send a progress report to the Representative Institute and State Ministry.
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy
Near Lernaean Border
Sector (-14, 1)
"We would like to open up trade relations," Øye responded, "And perhaps cultural exchange programs."
State Ministry Headquarters
Frostlake City
Sector (-3, 3)
Jarl Jensen contacted the AES Strawberry Swing, asking the Avonites if it would be possible for all of them to meet the Monarch. If not, he requested that they decide among themselves who to send as an envoy before negotiating with the Monarch.
-
Science Institute at Frostlake
Frostlake City, Wintrean Remnant
Sector (-3, 3)
The Democratic Empire's de facto embassy in Wintreath was finally completed. Murphy sent a message to Vivaldi informing them of their progress.
Science Diplomatic Mission
Main Aesir Fleet
Sector (-16, 14)
Glass returned to his ship. When they received directions to Drekiheimr, they departed from the Aesir fleet and headed toward their destination. Glass also sent a message to Vivaldi, suggesting that they perhaps make contact and begin negotiations with the Avonite Enclave.
Special Task Force of the Scientific Exploration Fleet
Near Witchian Border
Sector (-15, -13)
"Could you perhaps direct some Witchian diplomats toward us?" asked Bailey. "We would like to make official contact and begin negotiations, if possible."
Feynmann-class shuttle
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
Sector (-17, 18)
"No," responded Mott. "This smaller shuttle design is a little cramped for space, relatively. However, as an Aesir, you might find our ship's doors and corridors rather small. Is that acceptable?"
-
AES Perdition, in orbit around Avon
Vice Admiral Jil Scarhealer
Vice Admiral Jil Scarhealer observed the situation. Admiral Hanover had pulled back to the dark side of the moon even though he outnumbered her. Something was going on, not that she was complaining about the chance to rest and regroup. She didn't even know who she was fighting for, just who she was fighting against....
AES Blader
Captain Gry Breadbakker
Captain Breadbakker watched his world burn. The skies burned. The cities burned. It looked like the world was on fire. Breadbakker flashed back to the war. Watching whole planets die. Gry hoped to Spode that Avon would survive. He had alerted the Council to the Romulans arrival. He got 3 messages from 3 separate Councilors. One from Jan Lightbringer ordering Gry to take the Romulans to the Capital, one from Des Skyflyer ordering him to take them to the High Cathedral of Spode and one from Kir Darkcloak ordering him to AvCom. Breadbakker passed on the messages to the Romulans, telling them that he would take them to whichever location they wanted.
AFS Jormungandr
Captain Kli Waverider
"Well, Jarl, we seek a profitable trade for both our nation's. We need terraforming equipment and weapons, mostly. We can offer state of the art robotics, intelligence equipment and, if needed, agricultural supplies. We also would like to establish mutual embassies between our nations. As a sign of good will we have a gift of valuable artifacts from the Endless War. That is our proposal."
-
Drekiheimr
Sector (-23, 14)
Notice was received of the Science convoy on approach. Land just outside the city was designated for the embassy to be built upon. All that was left was awaiting their arrival.
Jarl Aragonn
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
"An interesting proposal. Your robotics can aid in our development of Stálrekkr, and we can definitely use agricultural supplies. We can offer terraforming equipment, but our weapons have always been unique to us because we haven't shared them with anyone else. Perhaps there is another thing we can provide for you? Perhaps a service?"
Ambassador Ulfír
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
Sector (-17, 18)
He nodded and prepared himself for launch.
-
Witchian Fleet Flagship,
Meeting Room,
17 days from Remnant border (-11, -13)
"Although I'm to far to signal our leaders back at Toobek, I do know how you could get their attention," Krimlo replied. "If you keep going further into our lands, I'm sure that someone of our security squad should see you. Just be prepared, some of our guards may be a bit hostile, as of they may think you are the Wintreans, who just stopped by our lands not too long ago."
-
Communications Records
IRW Venator Stellarum
Avon, Avonite Enclave
"Thank you Captain. I believe that we will visit Councilor Darkcloak first. After that we may want to visit the others, too." Commander Gela responded.
-
AES Blader, Avon
Captain Gry Breadbakker
"OK, we will prepare. Tell us when you are ready. Also take note, this is an active warzone so you may be stuck there for a while."
AFS Jormungandr
Captain Kli Waverider
"Well, Jarl, we do need help rebuilding our decimated worlds. That is our top priority."
-
Communications Records
IRW Venator Stellarum
Avon, Avonite Enclave
"Wonderful! We shall depart immediately. I'm boarding a shuttle with fighter escorts as we speak. Would you like to meet us down on the surface outside of AvCom, Captain?"
-
AES Blader, in orbit over Avon
Captain Gry Breadbakker
"Certainly, captain. I'll see you down there." Gry boarded the shuttle and was soon outside AvCom...
Ruins of AvCom, Industries Spirit, Avon
Councilor Kir Darkcloak
AvCom had been hit hard by the attacks but it held. Kir stood near the entrance, afraid to step outside in case of snipers. At least no where else had this kind of chaos as far as she was told. She heard the distinctive limp of an injured man, 2 in fact. She turned to see Irk Flowchaser and Sgt Avonman, both in bandages, walking towards her. She smiled at the sight of Irk. She was glad he was OK. It was the worst kept secret in Avon but she did, in fact, love him. At least she felt like it, she wouldn't know.
The Romulans arrived and were rushed into AvCom. Kir, Irk and a bunch of cops lead by Avonman were there to greet them. Captain Breadbakker was with the Romulans.
"Welcome to Avon, though I wish it was under better circumstances. I'm Kir Darkcloak. To what do we owe the pleasure?"
AES Strawberry Swing, Frosthold Planet
Admiral Ark Innsmouth
"What in Spode's name are they talking about? Who else wants to see the Wintreans?" Admiral Innsmouth was at the end of his rope. First an Ecstatic disappears and now this? What the hell was going on. He sent a reply to Jarl Jensen asking for clarification...
Ecstatic Sul Gravemind
Sul walked in his purple robes and his silver mask. He had the evidence the Vigilants had assembled, troop movements by the Romulans, analysis by Avonite experts concluding that the jammers were Romulans and that they had similar movements in the Acarian Empires. In short, imminent attack. He intended to leverage this for Wintrean support of Des Skyflyer. Sul smiled. It had been a long time. Finally, he could taste success. The Monarchs office was in the palace ahead...
-
Jarl Aragonn
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
"Rebuilding, I believe, is top priority for everyone. We Aesir got hit harder than most. So I apologize for not being able to afford any materials nor labor. Perhaps there is something else that could be of use?"
-
AFS Jormungandr
Captain Kli Waverider
"Oh, that's OK, Jarl. I'm sure we can..." His emergency com unit beeped in his jacket. "Oh, sorry, just a moment." He pulled it out and looked at the messages with a hint of trepidation. His XO would only contact him in an emergency. Once he saw the message he understood. Damn... Avon burned.
"Uhhh.. That's OK, Jarl, we can figure out specifics at a later date. I dont want to take nore of your time. Now, I really must return to my ship. Who should I contact about setting up an embassy?"
Capital Building, Industries Spirit, Avon
Councilor Jan Lightbringer
"Who are they?" Jan asked Dar, fuming. Kir had help with her. "I don't know, Jan. My scouts didn't get a good look. They did manage to see that they weren't local. But that's not important right now. The Reconciliators want to go back to the High Cathedral. They think that their place is there. I don't know if I can keep them here." Jan picked up a cup and launched it across the room. "SPODEDAMNIT! Who's the ringleader, Dar?" Dar looked at the cup with a hint of annoyance on his face before replying "It's Uyc Heavyheart. Why?" Jan didn't say a word as he walked out.
In the hallway stood Confessor Heavyheart. Jan walked up to him, loudly addressing him " Uyc! I understand you want to leave! Is that right? " Uyc gawped for a moment before replying "Yes, that's right. We must rally the faithful and guide our flock through these troubled times. I hope you understand, Jan." Jan nodded calmly and turned to face Dar Malediction who had just caught up. Then he reached down and before anyone could react he grabbed Dar's Dragoon, pulled it out, turned and shot Uyc Heavyheart in the face. Uyc's body jolted, then dropped into a twitching heap. "Anyone else want to leave? No? Good, because the first person who takes a step out of this building will get as good as he got. Understand?" He turned back to Dar who had a look of shock and fear. "Attack AvCom. Kill Darkcloak and whoever her friends are. Or do you want me to handle that for you to?" Jan shoved the revolver into Dar's belt then left him. Dar was still unable to do little more than stare in shock at Uyc Heavyheart's mangled remains....
-
Jarl Aragonn
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
"I will notify Drekiheimr of your needs. Take your ship to sector -23, 14 and await further instructions."
-
Diplomatic Convoy to Acarian Fleet
Allied States of Lernaea Border
Rananyus Nosus replied, "I agree to an embassy and free trade agreement. I'll get onto sending a ship to establish an embassy at Acaria immediately."
Diplomatic Convoy to Witchians
Orbiting Protheus
"That would be perfect. Let's go discuss it at New Witchmond!" replied Jones
Wallace White - Diplomat to Aesir
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
White saw her cross her arms and apologized. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to offend you. And yes, I was asking about your capital world. Sorry for the cumbersome question."
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy
Near Lernaean Border
Sector (-14, 1)
"That sounds great," replied David. "I'll get these approved immediately."
-
Zuophus, United Acarian Empires
Foreign Quarter
Sector (5, -19)
The diplomat hurried down the street in the foreign quarter of the city. The order was given out by the government. Soon, the empire will be at war... A large war that will last for a long time. He soon saw the Wintrean Embassy, still in pristine condition, but one look through the windows will see the interior stripped bare of furniture. The Wintreans took or sold most of it after the chaos in the empire...
He soon saw Bergli inside inspecting the embassy and calling down supplies and contacting Wintreath. Nobody even knew (including all of Acaria) that communications were jammed from Bergli to Wintreath.
He opened the door, took out a scroll of paper (Acarians still used the invention of paper even this late in time.) and announced, "The United Acarian Empires, has issued a Declaration of War Against the Wintrean Remnant."
As he said these words, the unnamed diplomat felt sorry for Bergli, as he had a traditional feast within the Imperial Palace. Then he realized, the government did not say what to do with Bergli. He was unsure whether to expel him or arrest him.
He quickly followed with the words, "You shall be placed under house arrest here in this embassy, until High Command makes further decisions to expel you to your homeland."
He waited a minute for Bergli to consume the information he just suddenly announced.
Combined Romulan-Acarian Fleet
North of Acarian Empire
Aedyn Zaegun soon got the signal back from Zuophus that war was declared. This was it, after a long journey back from home, they shall finally fight the remnant. Thanks to the conquest of several planets along the way, the troops were trained enough to not be considered recruits, but regulars. Aedyn Zaegun knew that the times ahead will be tough for the army, and for Acaria.
"Send out the signal to jump. Have the fleet jump to coordinates (6,-6). Also, sound the national anthem (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0bOjT3fvKy0) for our troops morale."
Aedyn Zaegun hoped for a quick space battle with minimum casualties. After all, ships don't build themselves. He had already created a military theory on how to ensure quick destruction of the Wintrean fleet, with most of their ships destroyed. The fleet would quickly surround the enemy fleet in all directions, preventing any escapes, plus fire from all sides into the enemy's flanks. The formation will be hard to keep together, but in the end, it would result in maximum casualties for the enemy, with minimum escapes.
Soon the FTL engineer announced, "Jumping in 5... 4... 3... 2... 1... We are now jumping to sector (6,-6)."
The national anthem also soon ended as the jump began. The troops stayed silent, knowing of the trials ahead of them. Some already lost their comrades on the planets they conquered, and this war would be no different.
Aedyn Zaegun's Fleet
Varno
Sector (6,-6)
Soon the jump ended and they saw the planet of Varno. Aedyn Zaegun would personally deal with Varno, while the other half of the fleet would deal with Dara under commander Filipp Nakhimov of the Acarian Dvesti Dvenadtsat' Datal'ona (Acarian 212 Battalion). Filipp was a relatively young commander, but well skilled and would do well in the conquest of Dara.
The Wintrean fleet was in sight as well, the fastest ships already trying to get around the enemy and get behind them to prevent escape. Aedyn's fleet would form a blockade of the fleet itself to destroy it. Thanks to the new Pyrrhus Class Cruiser, FTL drives will be easily stopped. A similar tactic will be used in Dara.
While the formation was in affect, Aedyn gave out the signal to fire at will. Nobody knows which ship was the first to fire on the Acarian side, but it was believed to be an Anastasia Capital Class ship. Soon, space erupted into chaos... The war has begun.
Filipp Nakhimov's Fleet
Dara
Sector (6,-6)
Similar tactics would be used in the space battle for Dara. Filipp was pumped for this battle. He would prove that he would be a worthy commander, and maybe even get his own fleet. Currently there was only two fleets, the Offensive one Aedyn Zaegun commands, and a defensive fleet for Acaria (although small). As the war went on, more fleets will be formed as commanders and officers gain more experience in warfare.
However, Filipp began to focus on this battle. The fleet was already initiating its formation around the enemy, and the gravity well generators were beginning to activate on the Pyrrhus Class Cruisers. Filipp gave the order to fire at will after hearing confirmation of Aedyn's attack.
Zuophus, United Acarian Empires
Emperor Zemas XVIII's Speech
Sector (5, -19)
(OOC: Here is a song to set the mood for this speech. Mood Music (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ldm6mA5mMYo))
Zemas XVIII was giving a speech after the declaration of war. It will be transmitted throughout the empire, and even into the fleet during battle.
"Comrades and Brothers and Sisters, Legions of Acaria and the Royal Armada, commanders and politicians, workers of the empire, men and women farmers, intellectuals, and the people currently in battle.
On order of the Senate, Duma, and the Monarchy, The United Acarian Empires has declared war on the Wintrean Remnant.
After the anniversary of my dynasty, the Senate has voted for war with Duma and Monarch approval.
Today, at this very moment, your comrades and brothers fight for the glory of our nation. They have initiated the attack on Wintreath, which has fallen so low in power.
There was a time where we have not been united, that we were in seperate kingdoms and empires. That was 1000's of years ago in our long, and rich history.
At that time, many of our people were at each other's throats, man against man, noble against noble, government against government.
And what happened? Our region was about to collapse, when my dynasty rose to power, united Acarian and the Draconian Empires, and soon liberated all of Acaria under a single banner. Now, our people have united into one culture - The Acarian. Where your neighbors were once enemies, now friends.
Today, our country is in a far more powerful position than that time. We have developed a strong industry, and have many resources at our disposal. We have allies assisting us, and our scientists are at the forefront of technology. We have a splendid and glorious army and fleet, defending our freedom, and our people! Against all those who seek destruction upon us.
Our whole country and allies back us up, against the tyrannical Wintrean Remnant. Our reserves in manpower and mechanical power unlimited and inexhaustible. We experience no shortage of food, or equipment, and though our army is large, our factories still lay fully manned. Our ancestors inspire us to deliver this blow to the remnant.
There is no doubt that the Remnant is still strong, but her power wanes each day. They no longer have the manpower or resources as they once had, when they had dominion over most of, if not the entire galaxy.
The Remnant is expanding slowly from the core, seeking to have its lost and old glory. Who's the say we are not next? Once the remnant controls too much, there can be none that would stop them in their final conquests.
But, we shall deliver the first blow! We will stop them, before their power is too strong for the new civilizations in this galaxy to handle.
Even now, the Wintreath remains divided in government! With different parties seeking to take over, while our people stand together as one.
Comrades! Brothers and Sisters! Legionnaires and the Royal Armada Men and Women!
The Galaxy, our people, and our allies, look upon you to crush the remnant! Those conquered by the Remnant in their expansion look upon you to liberate them!
Be worthy of this quest! The war you wage is a war of liberation, a just war. Let the heroic images of our ancestors inspire you! Remember our ancient history, full of glory and heroes.
Let the victorious banner of Acaria fly over your heads!
Utter destruction to the Remnant!
Long live our glorious motherland, her freedom and independence!
Under the banner of Acaria, TO VICTORY!"
-
Ambassador Herjall
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
"Our capitol world is heavily forrested with small towns here and there. The main city, the center of our government, is built inside the mountains of a mountain range. This was done to both hide and armor the city. It's basically one massive bunker that looks like a normal mountain range."
-
Outside of AvCom
Avon, Avonite Enclave
Commander Gela extended her hand to greet Captain Breadbakker, "Nice to finally meet you in person, captain! Shall we go inside to meet Councilor Darkcloak?"
She gestured to the building, then turned to the security contingent of her landing party. "Centurion, keep the shuttle secure, and at the first sign of trouble, return to the Stellarum at all costs. Squad 3, you're with me."
Combined Romulan-Acarian Fleet
North of Acarian Empire
"Praetor! We have been given the all-clear to begin the assault of the sectors that we have been assigned. Do I have your permission to flag the fleet to proceed to hyperspace, your excellency?" The Rear Admiral in command of communications questioned.
"Yes. Proceed to hyperspace and activate the fleet cloaks. Keep the Scimitars outside of sensor range until they are required. And as soon as possible, get the interdiction cruisers' gravity wells active. We must not let any of them escape. Transfer control of Sector Fleet 4 to Admiral Crederix and give him permission to attack Trilia. Signal Sector Fleet 5 to remain back as the primary reserve force for the entire Second Imperial Fleet."
Fleet Praetor Relatrex responded, then he turned to long-distance communications, "Ensure that Romulus is appraised of our situation, and inform them to dispatch the 6th and 7th Imperial Fleets as soon as is possible by way of the Acarian Empire. Additionally recommend that the 5th Fleet be assigned convoy protection duty. The letter from the High Command allowing us to invade has been opened. The Emperor may proceed with his declaration speech at his pleasure."
Fleet Command, Romulus
System Imperatoris
Romulan Star Empire
Praetor Demera was appraised of the situation at the Wintreath border in the early morning, right when the message from Praetor Relatrex arrived. She informed the Emperor and recommended that he convene an emergency session of the Senate to address the Romulan People. And he did.
Speech of Emperor Toridex
Capitoline Senatorial Complex
Romulus, System Imperatoris
Romulan Star Empire
At the closing of the Imperial Anthem (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KbMhHJE2DUw), the Emperor, clad in the most iconic Imperial regalia that many in the Empire considered possible, cleared his throat and spoke, knowing full well that scores of cameras from every possible angle were pointed to him, at the podium of the presiding magistrate, with the attention of the full Senate and People of the Romulan Empire.
"Senators, Fleets, Legions, and People of the Romulan Empire, is is with great pride and confidence that I today inform you all that a state of war now exists between the Romulan Star Empire and the Remant of the oppressors of our people—the Galactic Empire of Wintreath.
As we speak, our forces, combined with those of our great ally the Acarians, have begun a great offensive into the homelands of those who once razed our great nation to the ground. Now it is us, those who were oppressed by their once-great empire, that now bring the fight to them, to ensure that they never again rise to menace the entirety of the Galaxy.
As is according to legend, nearly four millennia ago our great empire was founded by Romulus the Great, Unifier of the Peoples. It was nearly a millennium after that when the Empire finally conquered its last planetary rivals, and moved onward to the stars, and along with our brothers the Vulcans and the Ilúvatari, forged an empire.
We were conquered by the remorseless and barbaric armies of that galactic Hegemony of Oppressors, ruled from Frosthold, with little autonomy for ourselves, when the Galactic Civil Wars broke out, we were lucky to have a man so great as Emperor Dar'nex I, Resurrector of the Empire, and a new era of Romulan expansion and glory was born.
Fellow People of Romulus, once more the empire stands on the brink of a brave new era, an era that will vanquish our greatest enemy, and establish a prosperous and secure society.
Our industry is second to none in the galaxy, our resources growing every day. Our population grows exponentially, and I know that there is no people in the galaxy with greater pride, determination, and industry that us. We shall harness this power to drive the final nail into the coffin of the Wintrean Remnant!
However, this war will be hard, make no mistake of that. We will fight this spectre for years, and it may very well cost us dearly. But we shall hold Triumph in the end!!
Long live the Romulan Star Empire, and may the empire continue to prosper and remain worthy of Romulus. Pro Imperio Romulano!!"
-
AFS Jormungandr
Captain Kli Waverider
"Thank you, Jarl, now I shall take my leave." Captain Waverider got up, saluted, then left, boarding his ship to proceed to the Aesir Homeworld.
AvCom, Industries Spirit, Avon
Captain Gry Breadbakker
Gry shook hands with the Romulans. They were pretty squishy. He was sure they would be delicious. "Yes, welcome to Avon though trust me when I say that it's not usually this damaged. Let's go inside before we get our heads blown off."
Inside the group met Kir Darkcloak. Gry watched as Kir greeted the Romulans and waited for their response.
-
Captain Dagfinn
AFS Odin
Sector (-16, 14)
The Aesir battlecruisers dropped out of hyperspace outside the star system and fired up their plasma drives. The two battlecruisers took up positions in front of the Wintrean convoy. Captain Dagfinn sat up in his seat.
"Open comms with the AFS Jörmungandr."
"Sir, comm request was redirected to the AFS Gungnir."
A video feed of Kommander Gunnarr appeared on the screen before Dagfinn. The captain immediately stood up straight and at attention.
"At ease," the Kommander ordered, and Dagfinn sat back down.
"Sir, I have with me a diplomatic convoy from-"
"From Wintreath. I know." Gunnarr looked a bit concerned. "Proceed with caution. The Jarl may order the fleet to engage or capture the Wintreans. If that happens, I'm giving you the orders to get them out of the Empire as much in one piece as possible. Engage any Aesir vessels you need to. Those Wintreans must survive if the Empire is to survive."
"Understood. We will protect the convoy."
"Stay true to our Code. Glory or Valhalla." And the comm link was cut.
Dagfinn looked around at his bridge crew, as the bridge crew looked at him. Dagfinn stood from his seat.
"You heard our orders. I know how you feel. Thinking about carrying out those orders feels like betraying our Empire. Hel, even I feel like a traitor right now. But we're following our Code. We are the righteous ones. If they attack these Wintreans, they are attacking an unarmed opponent with no provocation and therefore are going against our Code. They are the true traitors."
The bridge crew nodded in agreement.
"I couldn't have chosen a better bridge crew." Dagfinn saluted the bridge crew with his fist on his chest, and the crew saluted back.
"Now, return to your work," ordered Dagfinn. "I don't want any surprises."
The crew all turned back to their consoles.
"Helmsman, take us to the fleet. Comm, raise the AFS Jörmungandr again and tell them we're bringing the Wintrean diplomatic convoy."
-
AvCom
Avon, Avonite Enclave
"It is a great pleasure to meet you, Councilor Darkcloak. I'm Commander Gela, of the Romulan Star Navy. We are here to establish connections here in the Avonite Enclave, and to assist in any way possible in the resolution of your, er, current predicament? What's going on here, anyway?" Commander Gela said, a bit confused by the situation. She paused, then spoke again, "And in theory, a Tal Shiar Operative will be meeting with us shortly, as well. At least that's what the Tal Shiar said... they can be... confusing."
-
Kommander Brunnhilde
AFS Gjallarhorn
Vanaheim System
Sector (-18, 13)
The Gjallarhorn fleet was massive and spread out around the Space Station Muninn in orbit over the planet of Vanaheim. Aboard the AFS Gjallarhorn was Kommander Brunnhilde, pacing in her room. She was worried about what the other two would think about what she had to say.
The console screen in her desk lit up to show she had an incoming call. She quickly went to her desk and answered, making Kommander Gunnarr's face appear on the screen.
"You said this was of great importance. What is it?" he asked.
"I will say once Siegfried joins the call."
Gunnarr made himself more comfortable in his seat, expecting a bit of a wait. A couple minutes later, a call request came in from the AFS Mjölnir, and Gunnarr's image moved to take up half the screen as Kommander Siegfried took up the other half of the screen.
"Now that both of you are here, I want to propose...that we overthrow Jarl Aragonn."
Siegfried was shocked by what he heard, but Gunnarr looked unfazed by it.
"I was wondering when you would propose that," Gunnarr said with a slight smile. "You love this nation and its people more than anyone else I know, and we've both seen what has been happening."
"Guys, this is lunacy!" declared Siegfried. "He's been our leader for over a century."
Brunnhilde looked at Siegfried. "You've seen what he's doing. He's running us into oblivion! Wintreath is weak right now, yes, but we are much worse off. And for us to commit to a full scale war against Wintreath would be digging our own graves."
"He's changed, Sieg," stated Gunnarr. "He's no longer the Kommander we once knew. He needs to be removed before we all suffer."
"The only way to kick him out is to challenge him and defeat him in combat. You still remember how he became Jarl? He won against the both of us in the arena. Unless you've been training incredibly hard, I don't think he'll lose to you."
"He hasn't fought me yet," stated Brunnhilde, "and I'll be damned if we don't give this a try."
Gunnar sat up in his seat. "You have my support. Sieg?"
Siegfried looked at them both then sighed. "Alright, I'll support it. I just hope you know what you're doing."
"When Aragonn is defeated, who shall take his place? If all three of us fight and win, that becomes unclear."
"Then the answer is obvious. You need to be the one to fight him, alone." Gunnarr looked a bit sad. "As much as I don't want to lose you, you need to be the one who fights. This will be life and death for you, Aragonn, and the Aesir people. Wield that double spear with grace and precision, just like you always do, love."
Brunnhilde smiled a bit at that last part. "Thank you, Gunnarr. Glory or Valhalla." She ended the call then went out onto the bridge. The bridge crew stood at attention upon her entrance. "At ease." They all turned back to their work.
"You have that look on your face, Ma'am," noted the captain. "What is your mission this time?"
"Tell the fleet to follow us out of the system. We're going to see the Jarl."
"Aye, Ma'am. Helm, depart from the system and jump to the Jarl's location in sector -16, 14."
The Odinblessed navigator at the helm nodded and steered the huge battleship to leave the system. The rest of the fleet followed close behind. Upon leaving the system, they all disappeared into hyperspace.
-
AvCom, Industries Spirit, Avon
Councillor Kir Darkcloak
Kid's face dropped at the Romulans words. "Quite honestly, your guess is as good as mine, Commander Gela. We have the messages from Jan and Des. I've got no idea who's responsible for everything." Irk Flowchaser spoke up from his seat "My money's on Skyflyer. Siding with Yul Deacon? That alone deserves a bullet, the man's a animal. No loyalty, no honour." Kit nodded "Though Jan ain't exactly Mr Peace, is he? Plus, he has the capital. Basically we have no idea. Right now we're just trying to rally the Avonite Armed Forces, get off world reinforcements in, maybe even reinforcements from the other Avon Command Centers. We can figure out who killed who when everyone stops shooting."
Ruins Opposite AvCom, Industries Spirit, Avon
Ascentionist Legate Lis Growler
The burned ruins of a destroyer had narrowly missed AvCom and instead hit a barrack across the road. This is where Lis had assembled her Ascenionists. Her orders were clear, attack and destroy AvCom. She would admit though she was feeling uneasy. The death of Uyc Heavyheart had demoralized the men, but the soldiers under Lightbringer were still loyal. She had to attack. She lifted her binocs and waited....
High Cathedral Of Spode, Industries Spirit, Avon
Councilor Des Skyfler
This damn stalemate. How was she going to take the capital and AvCom? She needed them to cement control. She had men but not enough to take both. Maybe Fir Hannover's marines could help? Or the loyalists in the lower AvCom's? Until she sorted things out, she was staying put...
AES Murphy, in orbit around Avon
Admiral Fir Hannover
Control of the skies was mostly his. A small fleet led by Scarhealer remained entrenched behind the moon, Minmus, but she was to few in number to attack. He decided that the best place for him was on Avon. He prepared a shuttle to go down to the High Cathedral.
-
Diplomatic Convoy to Avonite Enclave
Border of the Democratic Empire
Sector (-6, 20)
The diplomatic mission to the Aesir had mentioned the Avonite Enclave, and so Minister Baker and Consul Xavier had both agreed to Ambassador Glass's suggestion of opening up relations with them. Consequently, a diplomatic convoy consisting of several cruisers and corvettes departed the borders of Science. From there, they would pass the Laurentian Empire before arriving at the Avonite Enclave.
Diplomatic Mission to Aesir Empire
Drekiheimr
Sector (-23, 14)
After some days of travel, the diplomatic convoy finally arrived at the Aesir homeworld. Ambassador Glass opened communications with the Drekiheimr's traffic control, asking for further instructions.
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
Sector (-17, 18)
The Feynmann-class shuttle left the AFS Draþor and headed back for the task force. As soon as they entered the docking bay of the Carpe Diem-class cruiser, the task force immediately jumped to hyperspace. Mott nodded approvingly at the display of efficiency that he and his crew enjoyed; the crew must have been preparing for the jump since they received news of the shuttle's arrival and the Aesir ships' readiness for departure.
Mott exited the shuttle, and waited for the Aesir ambassador to follow him.
Special Task Force of the Scientific Exploration Fleet
Near Witchian Border
Sector (-15, -13)
"Okay, I'll do that, if you're able to give us authorization to enter your territories," responded Bailey. "Otherwise, I'm afraid I may be breaking quite a few international laws."
Science Diplomatic Convoy
Near Lernaean border
Sector (-15, 8 )
The diplomatic mission finished its short journey between the Aesir Empire and the Allied States of Lernaea. Ambassador Jessica Rogers sent a transmission to the Lernaean border control, requesting entry and directions to the capital, so that they could establish an embassy.
-
Witchian Fleet Flagship,
Meeting Room,
17 days from Remnant border (-11, -13)
"Very well then, I give you permission to enter, if anyone asks, just tell them that General Krimlo gave you permission."
Diplomatic Convoy to Learnaea
Orbiting Protheus
"Very well then, follow me. Oh, and make sure to start up your hyperdrive." The scout set up it's hyperdrive, preparing for the trip back to New Witchmond.
-
State Ministry Headquarters
Frostlake City
Sector (-3, 3)
Jarl Jensen responded to the Avonite Admiral's request for elaboration, mentioning the diplomat and Ecstatic who had contacted him before their shuttle's departure.
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy
Near Lernaean Border
Sector (-14, 1)
"Thank you," replied Øye. "Our convoy is equipped with the necessary resources to build an embassy. May we proceed to your capital so that we can construct one?"
Wintrean Diplomatic Mission to the United Acarian Empires
Zuophus Foreign Quarter
Sector (5, -19)
Bergli took a moment to process the information given to him by the unnamed Acarian. Trying to keep the shock off his face, he responded, "Well, bloody brilliant. I hope that my people and I will be treated well?"
Wintrean CIC
Varno System
Sector (6, -6)
Admiral Martin Løvstad watched as the Acarian ships dropped out of hyperspace near the planet Varno. Classified briefings had already informed him of a likely attack, but the sight of their former friends from days past, returning to begin hostilities, was unsettling, to say the least.
A report from the orbiting group informed him that the Acarians had set up multiple interdiction fields around the planet. They were obviously attempting to trap the Wintreans, but the situation also opened up a whole new world of possibilities. During the Civil War, the Wintreans' tactics involving Interdictors had vastly improved, as they had both used and faced the technology countless times against rebels and secessionists. As the technology became increasingly common, the Wintreans began fitting many of their ships with the now-antiquated warp drives. Løvstad issued an order for all warp-capable ships to begin preparing their warp drives. He knew that most of the ships had probably already done so, but you could never be too sure of anything.
The Acarian ships then began to move toward the Wintrean fleet, seemingly attempting to surround them. Even with the size of the Acarian fleet, though, Løvstad felt that the vastness of space meant that the tactic would likely prove unsuccessful, save for perhaps allowing an attack from all directions. There were simply too many holes to slip through, and that wasn't even taking into account FTL tactics.
Then, one ship fired. Then, another, and the beautiful formation of ships dissolved into the chaos of war.
Wintrean Diplomatic Mission to the Aesir Empire
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
As soon as they docked with the Aesir flagship, Representative Lundgren was escorted by a guard through the wide corridors of the ship until they came to a room. An Aesir male, clearly the Jarl Aragonn, was inside.
Lundgren remained standing, and waited for the Aesir leader to speak.
Trilia Scientific Research Station
Sector (5, -6)
Dr. Terttu Lajunen, Director-General of the Trilia Research Program, read the reports of the incoming Romulan fleet. Apparently, the on-site gravitational wave observatory had, in a fluke, detected the massive fleet, and, upon further observation, determined that it was likely a Romulan attack.
At first, she was incredulous, but remembered her studies of history. The Romulans were probably returning to the Core in an act of vengeance, as they had vowed. Her suspicions were proven once news began flooding the Nets of the joint Acarian-Romulan declaration of war on Wintreath. Why does it have to be us? she thought. They were simply a civilian research base, on a useless planet in the middle of nowhere. Their closest thing to a military was their fleet of unarmed snowspeeders! Why would they be targeted?
Maybe the Romulans want to have footage of fighting on an ice planet, to show their victories against the Frozen Realm. Lajunen chuckled morbidly at her own thoughts. She considered herself somewhat knowledgeable about the world, rather than focusing completely on the sciences, and as a result, she knew quite a bit about the Romulans. Lajunen wouldn't call the barbaric, as some of the more xenophobic pundits had done in the past, but she knew that her and her people's chances of surviving this encounter was near nil.
Lajunen opened up the station-wide intercom, and began speaking. "This is Director-General Lajunen speaking. Our sensors have detected what is likely a Romulan fleet entering the system. Although we are civilians, I suspect that it is very possible that we could all die very soon. Thank you, and have a great evening." After all, it might be the last one we will have.
Varno System
Løvstad watched, as the ships began suffering the damage of battle, watched as they broke apart and fell into the planet below. He watched as starfighters and drones were launched and fought and died. He watched as losses mounted on both sides. Of course, the Wintrean group was heavily outnumbered, as their peacetime fleet was already stretched thin in anticipation of the attack, and their losses were thus much more dearly felt.
And then, on Løvstad's order, two things happened, almost simultaneously:
First, the "trapped" warp-capable ships accelerated to superluminal velocities as they sped through the Acarian blockade, finally stopping at the edge of the interdiction field.
Second, the large majority of the Wintrean fleet in Varno System performed a precision hyperspace jump directly to the Acarian fleet.
As per standard doctrine, most of the Wintrean ships in the area were not orbiting Varno Planet itself, but rather dispersed throughout deep space, at the outskirts of Varno System, with power signatures kept low as possible. After all, a few ships might bolster a sense of security, but if a massive fleet would simply arouse fear. Better to simply keep the ships hidden, and then jump them in when needed.
With near-perfect timing only made possible by the Wintreans' powerful navicomps, the Wintrean ships converged onto the enemy fleet, relying on the Acarians' own artificial gravity well to pull them out of hyperspace at the perfect location.
Unlike the Acarians, the Wintreans did not wait to fire.
Undisclosed underground location
Planet Trilia
Column knew that all was lost when she saw the Romulans entering the system. If it were the Acarians, they would have probably been able to remain hidden, but the Romulans had a certain... propensity... for gratuitous killing. Not to mention that their intelligence service—and secret police, the Tal Shiar, had been renowned since antiquity.
No, the Romulans would find this place, and nobody could be allowed to find this place. Column entered her authorization codes into the self-destruct system, and initiated it.
A small matter-annihilation reaction completely wiped out the entire base in an instant, the surrounding rock absorbing nearly all the radiation released by the explosion. The only sign of the destruction on the surface of Trilia was an earthquake and its ensuing avalanche.
Wintrean CIC
Thandio System
Sector (5, -6)
Admiral Dorthe Nielsen watched as the Wintrean ships, civilian and military alike, surrounding Thandio planet were quickly and efficiently destroyed by an unseen threat as an interdiction field prevented escape for all non-warp-capable ships. The Romulans, no doubt, and their lovely cloaking devices.
How the Romulans ever made cloaks the norm was beyond the comprehension of Wintrean analysts. Some suspected the the Romulans held a planet with large stores of cloaking crystals, but others, including Nielsen, felt that an entirely alien technology was more likely. More to the point, however, was that Nielsen's fleet did not have a crystal gravfield trap or any other form of detection system for cloaked ships. One was going to be delivered within the next standard week, but that would of course be too late.
Well, there would be no point chasing after a fleet they could not see. She issued no orders to the rest of her fleet, and waited to see the actions of the Romulan fleet.
Wintrean CIC
Dara System
Sector (6, -6)
Admrial Wilgot Eklund as watched the battle raged over the ecumenopolis of Dara. He would usually be worried for the civilian ships that surrounded Dara, but most had either fled or were already destroyed in the chaos. Now, all he had to push out of his mind was the falling debris that would probably kill millions and injure billions of civilians by the end of the battle.
Before the first shot was even fired, Eklund was receiving intel from Varno. It seemed that the Acarians were attempting to use the exact same strategy in both systems, undoubtedly because they felt it was the best one. Might as well also use the same counterattack.
Eklund timed his fleet's microjumps with Løvstad's, so that the Acarians wouldn't be tipped off by either of their movements. His ships, dispersed throughout the system, jumped into hyperspace at staggered intervals depending on their superluminal speeds, so that they could exit hyperspace at optimal times.
And as his flagship was pulled out of hyperspace with a jolt, Admiral Eklund joined the fray of battle.
-
Witchian Fleet Flagship,
Meeting Room,
17 days from Remnant border (-11, -13)
After closing the communications link, Krimlo turned to his crew, "Alright, lets get this fleet moving again, we have a war to attend to." The Witchian fleet moved along.
-
AES Strawberry Swing, in orbit around Frosthold
Admiral Ark Innsmouth
"WHAT IN SPODE'S NAME ARE YOU UP TO, LOWFLOATER! YOU AND GRAVEMIND WENT BEHIND MY BACK? I OUGHT TO BLOW YOU OUT AN AIRLOCK!" Admiral Innsmouth pissed. Something was happening and he could feel things slipping out of his control. On his own damn ship! He wanted to call in his Foreign Fleet. The full fury of 350 Pendleton-class Cruisers and 400 escorts would be invaluble. He just hoped he knew what to do by then. But more importantly, Lowfloater would tell him what he wanted to know one way or another...
Diplomat Jik Lowfloater
Damn. Innsmouth knew. Well, now what? Jik was loyal to Darkcloak. When she came to him with her theory about a traitor he'd agreed to keep an eye on the mission and make sure no one subverted it. When Innsmouth was away he'd tried to make sure that no one else could subvert what the diplomatic mission was. Now Innsmouth knew. In all his time with the Admiral, Jik had come to view him as a good man. He doubted that Innsmouth was involved with the attacks on Avon. Time to take a risk...
"I've been spying for Councilor Darkcloak. She suspects that there is a traitor within the Council. Someone who destroyed GK-21-B. Someone who wanted our mission here to fail. I was supposed to ensure nothing went wrong. And now I think that someone is going to sabotage the diplomatic talks. Someone like Ecstatic Gravemind. Ark, we need to get down onto Frosthold and talk to the monarch now, before Gravemind does!"
Admiral Ark Innsmouth
Admiral Innsmouth nodded slowly. He didn't trust Lowfloater but he had a point. Gravemind would certainly be going to talk to the monarch. And the best way to make sure nothing went wrong with Lowfloater would be to take him with Innsmouth. "I'm going to talk to the Monarch. You are coming. You won't say a word." He turned to begin preparations to go down to Frosthold.
On Frosthold
Ecstatic Sul Gravemind
Sul reached the palace gates. He faced the guard and spoke "My name is Sul Gravemind. I'm with the Avonite Diplomatic Convoy. I would like to see the monarch."
-
Ambassador Ulfír
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
Sector (-17, 18)
The ambassador almost had to crawl out of the shuttle. He felt like he had been riding in a clown car the entire way to the Science ship. But now that he was outside the shuttle, he had the space he needed to stand up.
"Thank you for having me here."
Jarl Aragonn
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
Aragonn faced this woman, this woman who would come before him and stand in his presence as if she were an equal. She is a Wintrean female, one who does not deserve such respect. Who was she to brave the journey into enemy territory and come face to face with her greatest adversary? A woman!
"You have nerve coming here, but I assure you that it was in vain. But since you're here, I'll make use of your ship, crew, and anything you have aboard your ship. We are going to launch a strike into the Frozen Realm, and you are going to watch by my side as your people die by Aesir hands. Every bit of pain and destruction you see will be blazed into your mind as you spectate, helpless and hopeless. But not before I take pleasure in your capture.
"Guard, take her to my quarters. And make sure she's secured."
"Yes, sir."
The guard who escorted her to Aragonn grabbed her right upper arm with an iron grip and pulled her along, taking her all the way to the Jarl's living quarters. He didn't care about her nor about what would happen to her, taking no pity despite her struggling and demands for release.
The Jarl left the room for the bridge, making his way swiftly. Speaking into his comm, he contacted the helmsman.
"Take us out of the system and prepare to jump. We attack now."
He could feel the ship moving through the sway it caused with him, but he was undeterred by it. Soon reaching the bridge, he resumed his place on the captain's seat.
"Jump for the eastern border as soon as we clear the system."
"Aye, sir."
The Jarl got up when they were almost to the edge of the system.
"I'll be in my quarters."
He left the bridge in the hands of the captain, navigating the corridors to his living quarters. Upon entering, he saw Lundgren on his bed glaring at him, wrists bound and a bruise on her cheek. A smirk formed on his face as he imagined the things he could do with her to bring himself pleasure.
Aragonn moved to the machine on the wall to have his armor removed but was stopped by his comm going off before he could activate it.
"Captain to Jarl Aragonn."
"I'm busy."
"Kommander Brunnhilde has a fleet blocking our path."
"Tell her to move."
"She's demanding to speak with you, Sir."
"Tell her I'm otherwise occupied and to try again later."
The ship suddenly shuddered as weapons fire hit the void shield.
"Now she's angry and calling you a coward."
Aragonn growled lowly. "I'm on my way to the bridge."
"She says you have five minutes." The comm link was then severed.
Aragonn, continuing to growl, glared at Lundgren. "You've been spared for a bit. Count yourself lucky." He then left for the bridge.
Entering the bridge, he saw Brunnhilde on the view screen. He took his spot on the captain's seat and looked at her. "What do you want?"
Brunnhilde stood from her seat, took off her helmet, and looked him right in the eye, unwavering. "I challenge you to combat for the position of Jarl with your bridge crew and my own as witnesses."
Aragonn was shocked and stood up at this affront. "Do you realize what you're doing?"
"Saving our nation."
"Then we fight aboard my ship," he demanded.
"Make sure you fight alone. No outside interference. No cheating. We fight using our individual skill only."
"Shall this be to the death?"
She took a deep breath before replying with, "Yes."
"Good. Meet me in a half hour." The Jarl ended the transmission and hurriedly rushed off the bridge.
Brunnhilde entered the combat training room soon after Aragonn arrived there.
"It's not too late to surrender and save your life," she told him as she pulled her power double spear off her back.
"I'm going to enjoy killing you."
Aragonn drew his power ulfberht and stood ready. Both their weapons powered on, and a gentle blue glow radiated from the edges of both weapons.
Brunnhilde made the first jab, blocked by Aragonn who in turn swung for her neck. She ducked under it, and the duel escalated from there. Brunnhilde moved about quickly, her spear twirling and jabbing at opportune timing while Aragonn was more rooted in place but moved his sword expertly. The two fought each other for an hour, neither side really gaining the upper hand, until Brunnhilde disarmed Aragonn with a twirl of her spear. He put his hands up, showing that he had lost.
"End it," he demanded.
Brunnhilde thrusted a spearhead clean through Aragonn's chest. He coughed up blood for a couple seconds before falling to the ground, dead. She removed the spear from his chest and put it back on her back then walked to the bridge.
Entering the bridge, she announced, "Aragonn is dead. I am now the Jarl!"
At first, nobody moved, but after a few seconds, the female Odinblessed navigator at the helm stood to face her and saluted, pounding a fist to her chest then thrusting her first into the air. The others refused to salute her.
"Thank you, navigator. Everyone else here is dismissed from active service and have dropped in rank to ensign effective immediately. Get your asses off my bridge!"
The bridge crew all got up and left. The navigator approached Brunnhilde and bowed. The Kommander, now the Jarl, smiled kindly and lifted her back to standing up.
"You need not bow to me, dear."
"Yes, Ma'am." The navigator looked really uncomfortable about something. "Ma'am..."
"What is it, child?"
"Aragonn, he...I could feel he had the intention to rape intermingled with the hatred for Wintreath. I think he..."
"He what?" Brunnhilde was growing more and more worried about what she might say.
"I think he was going to rape the woman from Wintreath. Or maybe he already did. I don't know..."
Brunnhilde sensed something else in her, something traumatic. "He's raped you too, hasn't he?"
The navigator hesitantly nodded, looking down at the floor.
"The Wintreath woman is in his quarters."
"Thank you again," the new Jarl said before running off to get to the late Jarl's quarters. Entering, she saw there was someone tied to the bed but that person wasn't there anymore.
Going further in to investigate, someone smaller than her jumped on her back and put her into a choke hold. It took her a few seconds to realize what was going on before she could react, but she was already on her knees before she yanked the arm from her neck. Gasping for breath, she pulled her assailant off of her back and in front of her. It was Lundgren.
"I'm here to-" Brunnhilde got cut off by Lundgren spitting in her face. "I'm here to set you free. Aragonn is dead."
Lundgren looked surprised at hearing this.
"If Aragonn is dead, then who is now Jarl?"
"I am," she said as she wiped the spit from her face. "Your ship and crew are both untouched, and anything you had on board is still there. Aragonn's anti Wintreath policies died with him. I am more than happy to open diplomatic relations with your people."
"Thank you. And I apologize for attacking you and spitting in your face."
"I understand." Brunnhilde stood back up and helped Lundgren get onto her feet. "Walk with me. We'll talk on the way to your ship."
-
AvCom, Industries Spirit, Avon
Ascencionist Legate Lis Growler
"CHARGE!" And with that the attack began.
Ascencionist soldiers opened fire on the surprised police officers. Those that survived the onslaught were soon overwhelmed by Confessors charging at AvCom. Fierce resistance was put up by the cops quickly with shotguns obliterating Confessors at close range. Shots continued to be exchanged...
Councilor Kir Darkcloak
The sound of laser fire and sirens made Kir jump. Cops came sprinting down the hallway towards the entrance hall, shotguns at the ready. Sgt Avonman's radio sprang to life with calls for reinforcements and acknowledgements. Avonman grabbed his shotgun and turned to Kir. "We're under attack! I'm going to the front, we need to push them back!" Kir shook her head "You're still injured! You'll die!" Avonman feed energy cells into his shotgun. "We'll die anyway! This is my job. I'm not going to let my men die alone!" Kir reluctantly nodded. A technician came running in. "Councilor Darkcloak, the long range transmitter was damaged! We need to repair it now, we almost contacted SHACom (South Hemisphere, Avon Command)!" Kir punched at the air. She knew how to fix it, hell, it was her company's damn transmitter! "I'm coming! Irk, go to the medbay, see if they need help!" She then turned to Commander Gela. "You can decide who you want to go with, Sgt Avonman, Irk or me, just don't stay here..." An explosion rocked the building and loosened the ceiling. "..it's about to become a warzone." She and the others turned to go their ways.
AES Redoubt, Aesir homeworld
Captain Kli Waverider
The Avonite ship arrived at the Aesir homeworld. Waverider opened a comma channel to the planet. "This is Captain Kli Waverider of the AES Redoubt from the Avonite Enclave. We are here to create an embassy." Kli sat back and waited...
-
Diplomatic Convoy to Witchians
Orbiting Protheus
Jones listened to the scout and gave orders to set up a route to New Witchmond. Soon, they would hopefully be constructing an embassy there.
Wallace White - Diplomat to Aesir
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
"I see," replied White. "Well then, is there anything else you'd like to discuss? I could send some ships to go begin constructing an embassy, if it is alright with you."
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy
Near Lernaean Border
Sector (-14, 1)
"Here are the coordinates," replied David. "May we do likewise?"
Diplomatic Convoy en route to Science
The journey through Aesir airspace went smoothly. Shortly after, they arrived at the borders of Science. Claire Knight sent out a transmission to Science border control. "This is Claire Knight representing Lernaea. I'm requesting entry and directions to your capital so we can establish an embassy."
ISA Headquarters
Protheus
Sector Sector (-18, 1)
"Sir, we are getting a transmission from Science. They are requesting entry and directions to Protheus for an embassy," announced the comms officer.
"Let them in," replied Morrow.
Garriot perked up and announced, "The Witchians have given us some information about people known as 'Romulans.' I'd like to send out a fleet to meet them."
"Do it," responded Morrow.
Soon after, a convoy was sent out to search for the Romulans.
-
Drekiheimr
Sector (-23, 14)
The Avonite message was recieved, and a response was quickly issued.
"Captain Waverider, I regret to inform you that your request to build an embassy must be approved by the new Jarl before we may allow you to proceed. I hope this doesn't inconvenience you too badly."
Ambassador Herjall
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
"By all means, send your own convoy to build an embassy. And if you don't mind, I'd like to discuss trade agreements and a military treaty."
-
Drekiheimr,Sector (-23, 14)
Captain Kli Waverider
Kli stared at the message long and hard. He considered very strongly just leaving and washing his hands of the Aesir. He held his face in his hands as he remembered what Des Skyflyer said to him.
"Captain Waverider, Avon needs you. You need to meet the Aesir. Be yourself. Do not let them push you around. Do it. For Avon."
She must have meant this. He opened his eyes and faced the screen. Avon needed him. He had to push aside his own personal feelings.
In as measured and controlled a voice as possible, he replied to the Aesir, "What...Do you mean.... New Jarl?"
30 YEARS AGO
Battle Of Tannhauser, Territory of the Shepard's Church, 16th Fleet of the Conclave, CPS Absolution
Independent Contractor Kir Darkcloak
So this is what war was like. She spied the listing remains of the Shepard's fleet, making a mental note to sell more of her Revelation-Class Cruisers to them. Though if they were lucky the Pendletons would finally be out of design phase by then... Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of a leather jackboot. Admiral Larjardi Voidwatcher strutted onto the observation deck. "Darkcloak. What do you want? I'm in no mood to buy anything from you and its a bit early in the day for coitus." Darkcloak coulndt help but laugh. "Subtle as ever, Lar. No, I dont want to sell you anything or,as you so clinically put it, "have coitus". I'm here about Tannhauser. Do you know why you were ordered to take it?" Larjardi crossed his arms and narrowed his eyes. "I would presume that it has something to do with money since your here. I'm sure you'll tell me." Kir loved dramatics. She turned and hammed it up, saying 3 words.
"Its About Time"
-
Drekiheimr
Sector (-23, 14)
"Aragonn was challenged for his position by Kommander Brunnhilde. Brunnhilde defeated him, so she is now Jarl of the Empire. As per protocol, any requests granted by the previous Jarl must be requested again to the new Jarl if that request had not been carried out yet. We have already notified her of your pending request, but seeing as how she's very busy with her new position, it might take a day for her to respond. Again, we apologize for the inconvenience."
-
Special Task Force of the Scientific Exploration Fleet
Near Witchian Border
Sector (-15, -13)
"Thank you," responded Bailey, as the connection closed. The civilian fleet began their journey into the Witchian territories.
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
En route to Vivaldi
Sector (-17, 18)
"We are honored by your presence on our modest ship, Ambassador," responded Mott. "What would you like to do now?"
Border Control Station
Democratic Empire of Science
Sector (-17, 20)
A border control officer received the Knight's message, and gave the Lernaean convoy instructions to Vivaldi, along with an official welcome from the State Ministry.
Science Diplomatic Convoy
Allied States of Lernaea
Sector (-15, 7)
Upon receiving the Lernaeans' message, the diplomatic convoy entered Lernaean borders and began making their way to Protheus.
Diplomatic Mission to Aesir Empire
Drekiheimr
Sector (-23, 14)
"Thank for informing us," responded Glass. "How is the current political state in the Aesir Empire?"
-
Wallace White - Diplomat to Aesir
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
"The convoy will be on its way then. What do you propose for trade and military?" asked White. "What do your people need that we can supply? On the topic of military, we haven't had much contact with the outside world. Is anything major happening militarily?"
Diplomatic Convoy en route to Science
After receiving instructions to Vivaldi, Knight ordered her ship to begin making its way to the planet.
Diplomatic Convoy to Romulans
Near Romulan Border
After receiving instructions for her first real mission, Donna Leonard was ecstatic. She was honored to be one of the few chosen to actually partake in a diplomatic mission, and being the diplomat! That used to be just a dream. After setting her ship into that she assumed the Romulans were (based off vague instructions), she decided to lie back and rest.
Shortly after, she was awaken by a buzz. Her wrist-mount was chirping, trying to wake her up. She turned off the alarm and noticed that they had, in fact, dropped out of hyperspace. She quickly freshened herself and got dressed, making her way to the bridge. She had been trained for this moment all her life. Leonard walked up to the comms and pressed the button. Soon, her voice would be broadcasting to all the nearest ships and space stations. She was ready, and started speaking, "Hello? Is anyone there? This is Donna Leonard of Lernaea, seeking life and civilization. If anyone can read me, please respond!" She hoped that that message would get the Romulans, or whoever they encountered, to get back to her so she could propel her career and sate her curiosity about life elsewhere.
-
Ambassador Ulfír
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
Sector (-17, 18)
"Perhaps a tour of the ship? It would be helpful to know where I'll be staying and where the mess hall is."
Drekiheimr
Sector (-23, 14)
To the Scientists:
"Jarl Brunnhilde is well known by most Aesir, as she was a beloved Kommander of the Vordr for some time. Most, if not all, will rally behind her. However, there is some anticipation as to who will be the next Kommander of the Vordr. Jarl Brunnhilde still has yet to pick someone, so the Vordr are left without a figure at the head of their branch which is a bit demoralizing for them.
"Aside from that, all of the Chieftains and the other Kommanders are still in place, so the Empire is still mostly functional."
Ambassador Herjall
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
"We are having a difficult time producing enough food for everyone. We need foodstuffs if you can provide it.
"As for outside military-" She was cut off by her wrist comm beeping. She looked at it to see what the message was.
Jarl Aragonn challenged and defeated by Kommander Brunnhilde. Brunnhilde is now Jarl.
"Aside from an effort to stop pirating around the Empire, we don't know of any current military campaigns. But seeing as how the Aesir aren't well connected with other nations, there is a lot we don't know about what is going on in the galaxy.
"However, I am authorized to offer you military protection. In the event that you are attacked without provocation, we can be there to defend you. What do you say?"
-
Drekiheimr,Sector (-23, 14)
Captain Kli Waverider
"I'm sorry, who is Jarl Brunnhilde and what are we to do in the meantime?" Captain Waverider was definitely annoyed now. If the government could be so easily toppled how was he to have confidence in them?
30 YEARS AGO
Tannhauser, Territory if the Shepard's Church, CPS Absolution
Admiral Lajardi Voidwatcher
Darkcloak's antics may be amusing but they also worked. Few people could sell weapons to both the Conclave and the Church with both knowing about it and not only survive but have both be grateful for it. Kir was one of them. "Time? Dont tell me you believe in Temporal Mechanics? Bunch of hocus pocus nonsense." Voidwatcher made a sign of disgust. Honestly, though, he was intrigued. If anyone else had suggested it he would have them committed to a healers abbey. " No, of course I dont, no one has ever gotten any meaningful data out of Temporal research in over 100 years. Or just yesterday, if we could time travel. But your intel office is convinced something is up and hired me to go find out what happened here. So here I am. For.." she checked her time piece "..about 5 hours. Then I'm going to leave. So chop chop, find the enemy research station and ill do my hocus pocus science thing. Maybe you get a little bonus in the meantime..." Her voice trailed off as she turned around to give Lajardi a good view of her curvaceous behind under her business casual suit. Damn, she knew how to push his buttons. "I'll, uhh.... get on that. The reasarch station, I mean. Yeah..." He slowly about turned then made his way to the command level. He definately wanted to take Kir up on her offer later. His daydream was interrupted by the sound of footsteps in front of him. ECA Poe Pestlewait was heading over to speak to him, along with Inquisitor Danoz Preacher....
-
Witchian Scout & Learnean Diplomatic Fleet
Somewhere around the Witchian border
The scout arrived, and behind his ship, the Learnean fleet looked intact. Upon entering through the border, he saw the Science's Special Task Force. "Who are they? Wait one moment, I'm going to try to contact this fleet." He informed his "guests."
He attempted to set up a communications link between them and asked, "Who may you be?"
Witchian Invasion Fleet
Wintreath's Southwestern Border (-6,-7)
The fleet arrived at last. Seeing many planets ahead of them, they started their siege, blockading and sending troops to occupy what seems to be the most populated planet in the area.
-
Ground, Planet Trilia
Romulan Occupation Command
Romulan-Occupied Wintrean Remant
Imperial Legate Nealius surveyed the surroundings as he marched off of his shuttle onto the landing platform hovering above Trilia. But the planet's name was irrelevant. All that mattered was that it was his job to mop up any further resistance from the local populace. The sounds of plasma weapon fire and Romulan artillery filled the air in the distance, whole legions of Romulan troops disembarked from hundreds of troop transports, while human captives were led by their Tal Shiar captors to the largest building they could find on the planet, hastily re-christened the "Imperial Loyalty Headquarters."
Nealius turned to one of the many subordinates around, "I want holo-footage of our victory and mop-up battles at once. Broadcast on all frequencies in the direction of the Remnant." he paused, "And dispatch teams to all planet sectors at once to begin digging in. As far as we're concerned the Empire has always been here, and the Empire will never leave."
Scimitar-class Warbird Fortunae
Thandio System
Sector (5, -6)
"Yes commander, we have final approval from High Command to commence Thalaron deployment."
"Scramble all Wintreath communications. Then fire immediately, Lieutenant."
"Aye, sir. Firing at planet Thandio 2."
AvCom
Industries Spirit, Avon
Avonite Enclave
Commander Gela smirked at the suggestion that they flee from the position of power, "Councilor, we Romulans do not run from terrorists." She pressed her communications wristband, "Stellarum this is the Commander. Prepare for a low-level assault run against hostiles near my location. And also send in the SpecOps contingent and the Naval Infantry. I want minimal casualties to our forces, even if that means killing every last one of them."
She paused, rethinking her previous order, "Actually, get at least one of them alive. And prepare for interrogation."
-
AvCom, Industries Spirit, Avon, Avonite Enclave
Councilor Irk Flowchaser
Irk turned around at the Romulan's suggestion. "Are you crazy? An attack run on a sector with civilians? There are people out there!" Another explosion rocked the building. More cops came running down the corridor, this time running away from the main entrance. A Corporal stopped and shouted at Sgt Avonman "They've breached the entrance! We're falling back to the secondary rally point!" He then turned and continued down the hall, his radio cackling with situation reports. Irk turned to face the Romulan. "You want to stay here and wait for your soldiers, go ahead. Any minute now you'll have a horde of armed angry rebels descending on you. Tell them how Romulans dont run from terrorists." He turned and made his way to the med bay. Sgt Avonman ran down the corridor yelling into his palm mic. Kir made her way towards the roof and the Long Range Transmitter.
High Cathedral of Spode, Industries Spirit, Avon, Avonite Enclave
Vox Evangelical Yul Deacon
"I have no idea, Des. If the Romulans were coming they'd be here by now. None of our guys report a Romulan ship and My reports indicate that the AvCom facility is under attack. I'd wager that the aliens went to either the Capitol or are in the attack on AvCom." Despite technically just being a glorified Preacher, in all his time ad Vox Evangelical Yul Deacon had created quite the spy network. Even Dar Malediction had no idea what he'd done, why should he? He had spent so much time militarizing the Vigilantes that the Vigilant's had pretty much bowed down the Deacon. " Also, I've found the Romulan ship. Its not even trying to hide.. Latest orbit scans indicate where it is." Des Skyflyer viewed the holo-map of Avon thoughtfully. It was hard to know what she thought. "Tell Fir to move the fleet close to the Romulan ship. Then blanket AvCom in orbital strikes. Blame the Romulans. Kill Darkcloak and cripple Lightbringer in one foul swoop. We'll take Avon yet..."
The Home Fleet formed up and began to move. Over 50 Pendelton-class Cruisers in bombardment formation with the AES Murphy leading the way got into position...
30 YEARS AGO
CPS Absolution, Tannhauser, Territory of the Shepard's Church
Admiral Lajardi Voidwatcher
Emergency Civilian Administrator Poe Pestlewait was one of the best at administrating conquered populations. This was one hell of a weird job, though. "Why not just leave them here? Why in Avon's name must we evacuate an entire bloody planet? Do you have any idea how many people live on Tannhauser? Its over a billion people!" Admiral Lajardi Voidwathcer just shook his head sadly. "No two ways about it, we have orders. We have enough transports to do it, you just need to organize it. And you have a day to round up as many civilians as you can. Then we leave. We cant hold this planet, a counterattack is all but assured." Even though Poe was a Low-Born, evident by his 3 letter first name, and Lajardi was a High-Born, the Admiral had nothing but respect for the bureaucrat. "I'm sure you'll manage somehow." Inquisitor Danoz Preacher nodded and spoke softly. "I agree, and dont worry, you'll get as much help from my Overseer's as you want. We'll also make sure not to force religious services on the refugees." Pestlewait nodded. The task before him was impossible but somehow it had to be done. He solemnly nodded and went about organizing the colossal effort.
Meanwhile, Inquisitor Preacher turned to face Voidwatcher and read from his report. "I found the Research Station you wanted. Its in orbit around the planet's distant moon, Fortune. Ironic name, considering the moon is a barren, worthless rock. The station's name is Fortune's End. Why do you want this station so bad, Admiral?" Danoz tilted his head curiously. "Does it have something to do with Kir Darkcloak? Because if it does, I advise against it. That woman is nothing but trouble." The Admiral shrugged and crossed his arms. "No, it does not, in fact, have all that much to do with her. Order's from above. What to do?"
-
AvCom
Industries Spirit, Avon
Avonite Enclave
Commander Gela recoiled in shock. Never in the history of the Romulan Empire was there any reaction to terrorism other than to decimate the population revolting, active and complacent alike. In the eyes of Romulan law, those refusing to get involved were just as guilty as those starting riots, and this policy had been quite effective for millennia.
"Very well Councilor. Your population, your call. I'll summon the shuttle to the roof. We could take you to AvCom South, if you'd like."
At that point her transmitter lit up, "Commander!! Urgent!! This is the Stellarum. An Avonite fleet of approximately 50 battlecruisers is positioning itself above your position. Recommend emergency transporter evacuation, unless you're within 15 minutes of your shuttle."
-
Frosthold Castle
Frostlake City
Sector (-3, 3)
After a brief moment, the guard responded, "I apologize, Mr. Sul Gravemind, but that is not possible. The Monarch is currently preoccupied with rather important matters, and cannot meet the Avonite envoys outside of our preexisting scheduled time."
Wintrean Diplomatic Mission to the Aesir Empire
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
Lundgren walked alongside the new Aesir Jarl. She had come prepared for such terrible outcomes to happen, but she was still shaken. The former Jarl had clearly been quite unstable...
Clearing out her thoughts and focusing on the diplomatic situation, she waited for the Jarl to speak.
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy
Near Lernaean Border
Sector (-14, 1)
"Thank you," responded Øye. "And yes, here are the relevant maps and coordinates."
Wintrean CIC
Thandio System
Sector (5, -6)
"Any progress on breaking through the Romulan jamming to connect to our nanocraft probes?" asked Nielsen to the rest of her officers.
"Fortunately, it hasn't been too difficult," a communications officer responded. "They can't use destructive interference, as they are unaware of our location. And they can't just send noise over all frequencies, since they are still communicating with each other. All we need to do is find the ones that the Romulans themselves use to communicate—"
"Admiral, we have made a connection, but our sensors no longer detect any lifeforms on the planet Thandio!" interrupted an officer.
Shocked, Nielsen did not reply.
"We have visual confirmation from another one of our nanocraft," reported another officer. "The entire surface of the planet has turned a greyish-brown. However, it would appear that all the inorganic infrastructure remains intact."
One of those Romulan superweapons, I see... mused Nielsen. They seem to think that their exotic technology can get them anywhere.
She looked across the CIC. Many of the officers had gone into various degrees of shock. She knew that a few of them were Thandians themselves, and had just witnessed the deaths of their friends and family.
"So the Romulans want a nice, clean planet for themselves, eh?" seethed Nielsen. "Well, if we Thandians and Wintreans can't have our own planet, nobody will."
After a brief pause, Nielsen continued. "Begin preparing orders for a coordinated microjump throughout the fleet. Prior to the jump, have all weapons ready. We will be conducting a full-scale orbital bombardment immediately upon exiting hyperspace. Target assets that would be more important to the Romulans first, but I want as much infrastructure destroyed as possible.
"Oh, and make sure to be quick. We don't want to give the Romulans any warning."
Minutes later, the fleet jumped within firing distance of Thandio.
And so as fire rained upon the planet below, the Wintreans lit a funeral pyre for their fallen brethren.
-
Wallace White - Diplomat to Aesir
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
"Hmm... I'll agree to both! We have quite a surplus of food since war basically never touched us, and I hope it never will, but if it ever does, your military assistance will be greatly appreciated."
"Now I don't want to hold you here too long, as it seems you might be a bit busy," he said pointing to her wrist comm, "but I would like to offer military aid to you as well in case you are attacked. What do you say?"
Diplomatic Convoy to Witchians
Somewhere near Witchian Border
"Those ships? I believe those belong to Science. They are fairly close to us," replied Jones. "I'll give you some time to talk to them. We'll get ready to construct our embassy."
Diplomatic Convoy en route to Science
Upon arrival, Knight got her crew ready to construct the embassy, and awaited further instructions from Science.
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy
Near Lernaean Border
Sector (-14, 1)
David received the coordinates and quickly forwarded them over to ISA headquarters so that construction could begin.
Diplomatic Convoy to Romulans
Near Romulan Border
(Will edit to include later)
-
Orbit above Thandio 2
Thandio System
Sector (5, -6)
Fleet Praetor Relatrex sneered as the Wintrean Fleet exited hyperspace above the newly lifeless planet. Human emotion. It makes them weak and irrational beings. It was a good thing that the Fleet Strategy Council was primarily Vulcan though. Otherwise the emotional response would not have been harnessed and taken advantage of. It was Tactical Commandant of the 5th Sector Fleet of the 2nd Imperial Fleet, Kiak Tyrram, a Vulcan, who proposed that a trap be lain using the 2nd Imperial Fleet's reserve force (the 5th Sector Fleet) as the hammer to smash whatever was left of the Wintrean forces in the Thandian System came to "save" or "avenge" the deaths of the billions of Thandians.
Seeing the entrance of the Wintrean forces and their immediate bombardment of the planet surface, he signalled the 5th Sector Fleet.
"Admiral Thuma, it is time." The positions of the Wintrean ships were routed instantly to the incoming Romulan vessels, which arrived only seconds after Wintrean forces arrived—each vessel with its main armament locked on the Wintrean shield generators.
Admiral Thuma was not known for her hesitancy, and she certainly didn't break tradition this time, either. The Romulan fleet arrived firing.
While this was occurring, the 2nd and 3rd Sector Fleets flanked the Wintrean vessels, while the battleships and heavy cruisers and carriers of the 1st Sector Fleet attempted to absorb the brunt of the Wintrean assault, to spare the newly-acquired heavy industry on the surface from absorbing too much fire...
Romulan Vessel IRW Pevatha
Tavara-class Battlecruiser
Romulan Border Zone
"Commander! We have what appears to be a light convoy of unidentified xenos entering Romulan Space. Shall we respond, sir?"
"Certainly Sublieutenant. Broadcast the standard greeting and advise them to lower their shields and prepare to be boarded by Romulan Star Empire Customs and Border Enforcement Officials."
-
AES Murphy , in orbit around Avon, Avonite Enclave
Admiral Fir Hanover
He read the intercepted transmission from the Romulans. Damn bastard's thought that they were so clever, huh. He would show them. "Order the Renown, Desiccator, Harbinger and the Justice to break and form an attack formation around me. We're going after the Romulan. Move out!"
5 Pendletons broke and formed a diamond formation facing the Romulan battlecruiser. The gravity wells projected fields around the Romulan, preventing escape....
-
Drekiheimr
Sector (-23, 14)
To the Avonites:
"Jarl Brunnhilde was previously Kommander of the Vordr, the branch of the Aesir Armed Forces dedicated to defending the Empire from foreign invaders. What you do while you wait is up to you. You have authorisation to come to the surface if you wish."
Jarl Brunnhilde
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
Carefully navigating the vast decks of the mighty vessel, she was doing her best to keep pace with the slower human. But she refused to show this in her expression. Not in front of Lundgren.
"I am curious to know of the current state of the Wintrean Remnant. Perhaps you could enlighten me?"
Ambassador Herjall
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
She was shocked by his readiness and willingness to accept the request for food. Happy that they would help in this critical area, as well as stand with the Aesir in any military conflict, she gratefully smiled at the man, sharp and pointed teeth becoming easily visible.
"This is wonderful news to hear! We shall be eternally grateful for your assistance in these difficult times for us. And as for being busy, that was just an update from my nation. I don't need to go anywhere just yet.
"Now, is there anything you would like from us? We are still in the process of rebuilding worlds and our population, but we do still have things to offer besides military assistance."
-
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
En route to Vivaldi
Sector (-17, 18)
"Ah yes, of course," Mott replied. He then proceeded to give the ambassador a tour of the facilities. "I apologize if some of these areas are cramped for you," he said as he led the Aesir through some of the more utilitarian parts of the ship. "The mess hall and your quarters should have no problem in that aspect though."
Diplomatic Mission to Aesir Empire
Drekiheimr
Sector (-23, 14)
"Thank you for the information," said Glass as he closed the connection and waited for further directions from the new foreign government.
Vivaldi, Clausius
Democratic Empire of Rationalist Science
Sector (-12, 24)
The State Ministry opened up communications with the Lernaean mission and gave them instructions on where to land and construct their embassy.
Special Task Force of the Scientific Exploration Fleet
Within Witchian Territories
Sector (-15, -14)
"I am Director-General Bailey of the Scientific Exploration Fleet, representing the Democratic Empire of Rationalist Science," Bailey responded. "The Lernaeans pointed us here to look for a nation called New Witchmond, and upon approaching the border, the Witchian General Krimlo advised and gave us permission to enter your borders in an attempt to make diplomatic contact."
Diplomatic Mission to Lernaea
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
Upon arrival at the Lernaean capital, Ambassador Rogers sent a message to the local authorities asking for further instructions.
-
Frosthold Planet, Wintreath Remnant
Ecstatic Sul Gravemind
"I understand, but it is important. It's about your war with the Romulans. I understand that you need help. And I am here as an envoy for someone who is willing to offer you help. Would you be interested?"
Admiral Ark Innsmouth
The shuttle shot out of the bay, leaving the Strawberry Swing behind. Just as Admiral Innsmouth took in the view, his priority communication unit beeped. A message from AvCom?
-
High above Satyrion IV. Galactic coordinates: <-25, 8>
The blue-green planet loomed in front of of the Exodite Wanderer-class Lockhead, slowly approaching the silver-grey ship. Ensign Keb Diden, a young rookie of the Admiralty caste, looked out the reinforced crystal windshield.
"Wow..." he muttered involuntarily at the awe-inspiring view. The world was a promising one to scout out, but nobody told him how beautiful it would be from above. This world, with it's oxygen, it's apparently backwards inhabitants, and unique genetic codes would be invaluable to the Exodite Fleet should the Army Scouts recommend an invasion. Admiral Fet Cehil had ordered an expedition be sent out, and Ensign Keb was among those selected to participate.
The Pilot of the ship, a older woman named Eja Sijed, looked at him and smiled. "The view never gets old, does it?"
Keb reddened slightly and looked away, taking a sip of his nutrition slurry. "Never does." His smile faded and he felt a pang of jealousy as he watched the woman expertly guide the ship with her hands on the controls. The Test put him square in the within the parameters for the Admiralty and he did his training dutifully as such, but his heart was with the Combat Pilots. The way they guide the silver ships of the Fleet across the inky black of space, dashing through the puffy white clouds of foreign worlds, expertly maneuvering the craft as though it was a white bird... It must be what being in heaven is like. He wished the Admiralty would let him join Pilot training proper.
"Ensign Diden," the loud and commanding voice of Lieutenant Sih Ledif snapped Keb from his daydreaming. Sih was an older and experienced man, the no-nonsense leader of the Scouting expedition. "Quit mucking around. It's time for the Invocation, and you're expected to be there."
"Oh, actually, sir..." Eja interjected, uncliping herself from the Pilot seat, "I haven't attended an Invocation in ages, and I would like to do so now. I felt my psychic connection to the Great Other lessening suddenly yesterday, and I would like to repair it."
Lieutenant Ledif folded his upperarms and grunted. "The invocation could take hours, Pilot Sijed. Who will control the Lockhead until you get back?"
She paused, then looked back at the young Ensign. "Perhaps Ensign Diden could take over for a bit, sir? Rumor has it that he aced orbital flight training." Keb's ears perked up and his eyes widened with barely-contained as he tried to shoot a betrayed look at Eja.
Ledif unfolded his arms, curious. "This is true, and his marks were perfect... Ensign Diden?"
"Y-yes, sir?"
"Would you be comfortable piloting this vessel until the Invocation is over? All you would have to do is maneuver it into a proper orbit for descent."
"I... I..." Keb snapped out of it. "Aye, sir!"
"I trust that you can handle both your weapons system responsibilities and the maneuvering." Ensign Diden's primary responsibility was command of the laser weapons systems aboard the Lockhead.
"Yes, sir. I won't let you down."
"Very well. Be careful with the ship. If anything at all goes wrong, call me immediately."
"Of course, sir!" Eja followed Lt. Ledif as he left, and shot a cheeky grin at the nervous Ensign. Keb stuck his tongue out (a very rude gesture in Damli culture) and turned away, but his wide smile displayed his true emotions.
As soon as the Pilot and the Second Lieutenant left, Ensign Keb Diden strapped himself into the Pilot's seat. In front of him were the four joysticks and myriad minor controls of the spacecraft, the green phosphorescent display reading out every detail of the Lockhead and her operations, and the window showing the blue planet surrounded by a star-studded void. His flight indicator showed that a maneuver would be needed soon to avoid being thrown off course by some natural satellite. Stretching out his four arms, he took hold of the joysticks and breathed deeply. His shaking hands calmed, and his eyes focused.
"I am a leaf on the wind..." Keb said quietly, repeating an old folk saying of pilots that he heard somewhere, "Watch how I soar..."
-
Ambassador Ulfír
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
Sector (-17, 18)
"I appreciate your concern, but I am more than capable of managing for this occasion. It pleases me to know that I may rest and eat in comfort though.
"I believe I will now spend some time in the mess hall to interact with crew members and taste your cuisine. Is this alright with you?"
Sector (-25, 8 )
An Aesir destroyer exited hyperspace on the outskirts of a local star system. The patrol vessel was there to run routine scans of the system, known to be home to a race of primitives. If they found nothing, per usual, they would continue on their way.
"Captain," the Odinblessed helmsman reported, "I'm detecting a vessel within the system."
"What origin?" asked the Captain, her voice holding the sound of power greater than any other patrolling captain.
"Unknown, Ma'am."
"The vessel appears small and lightly armed," reported the tactical officer. "I suggest further investigation."
"What is the location of this vessel?"
"It's in orbit over the planet inhabited by primitives," informed the helmsman.
"Move our ship into orbit alongside the alien vessel."
"Aye, Ma'am." Working the controls, the helmsman set a course to come alongside the alien vessel.
The ship soon came within visual range of the alien scout ship.
"Hail them," ordered the captain. With the hail sent, the captain spoke her first contact words of choice. "This is Captain Gærn of the Aesir Destroyer AFS Volklang. Please state who you are and why you are here."
-
Ensign Diden froze in his tracks. He couldn't quite believe what he was seeing: an unknown ship three to five times larger than their own Wanderer-class now appeared in front of him. He kept receiving an unintelligible radio transmission, apparently a signal in their language. Aiming the radio transmitter at the ship, Keb sent a reply in his own language.
"This is the Wanderer-class scout ship Lockhead", he said slowly and clearly. "You are interfering with our mission and with the will of the Exodite Fleet. Remove yourself from our orbital path, or be destr- erm, or there will be consequences!"
Suddenly, all the officers who had departed to attend the Invocation, even the head Occultist, burst into the bridge, fully suited. Eja heard Keb's transmission on her radio, and alerted the rest of the crew.
"What is going on- Shit!"
"Battle stations!"
"Suit up now! All units, suit up!"
Lieutenant Ledif ran into the room. "Ensign Keb, get ready for battle!"
Ensign Keb detached himself from the Pilot seat and let Eja, now wearing her Combat Pilot suit, take over her controls. Immediately, the small ship turned to face the unknown destroyer, sending unsecured items (and unsecured Damli) flying. Keb hit his head hard on the mistarillium wall of the ship while he was putting on his combat spacesuit, scratching his plexiglass helmet and causing him to see stars briefly. On the bridge, however, the chaos was settling.
"Major Weapons Officer: missiles ready!"
"Engineer units one through five, on standby."
"Marines ready!"
"Army units in defensive positions!"
"Railguns ready!"
Keb returned to the bridge and strapped himself into his seat at the laser weapons command system. The screens glowed green and red as they focused on the enemy ship.
"All lasers ready, sir!"
"Awaiting orders, Lieutenant."
Finally, the bridge was silent. Lieutenant Sih Ledif approached the communications hub. The blue display screen cast a glow on the front of his pressure helmet. First, he activated the internal intercom.
"Keb, order your units to use their target designators to beam the numerical message to the UFO."
"Aye sir." Protocol officially dictated that they had to give a signal of intelligence to an unknown spaceship before sending a message. The radio signal was beamed at the Aesir destroyer, the first five prime numbers:
<2,3,5,7,11>
Then, he switched to external communications. He spoke in his own language. "This is Lieutenant Sih Ledif, commander of the Wanderer-class Scout Vessel Lockhead. We are on a mission to expand the knowledge and control of the Exodite Dominion. What are you, and what is your purpose near this planet?"
Ensign Keb turned towards the Lieutenant. "Sir, permission to speak?"
"Go ahead."
"They might not understand us. Their first radio transmission was almost gibberish, sir. We should try the Reconstructed Outsider Language."
"Let's wait and see. If we don't get a satisfactory response, we can try that."
All eyes, ears, and guns were focused on the mysterious ship.
-
Captain Gærn
AFS Volklang
Sector (-25, 8 )
"They're responding."
"Play it," ordered the captain. The message came out unintelligible, a language none of them knew. "Run it through the translation matrix and play it again."
After a moment, the message was played again in the Aesir language.
"This is the Wanderer-class scout ship Lockhead. You are interfering with our mission and with the will of the Exodite Fleet. Remove yourself from our orbital path, or be (garbled noise) or there will be consequences!"
"Nobody threatens my ship and gets away with it. What language was it identified as?"
"The language of a race of primitives called Damli, Ma'am."
"Explains their lack of experience in first contact situations," the captain remarked.
"They've turned to face us and are powering weapons," noted the tactical officer.
"Raise shields and power weapons. Comm, I want any and all transmissions from that vessel intercepted. I don't want any unwelcome guests. And inform the Lieutenant Kommander of our situation."
"Ma'am, they just sent a numerical signal. Two, three, five, seven, one, one...the last two ones appear to be grouped together. They're the first five prime numbers, Ma'am."
"They may not be capable of calculating their odds against us, but at least they know basic math..."
"Another transmission."
"Translate then play it."
After a moment, "This is Lieutenant Sih Ledif, commander of the Wanderer-class Scout Vessel Lockhead. We are on a mission to expand the knowledge and control of the Exodite Dominion. What are you, and what is your purpose near this planet?"
Gærn tilted her head. "It would appear they cannot understand our our language. Very well. Comm, prepare to record a video and send it to the Damli, or Exodite, vessel."
The communications officer touched a few controls then looked up at the Captain. "Ready to begin recording."
Gærn took off her power armor helmet and set it to the side then looked directly ahead of her where the video would be captured from.
"Now," she ordered and the comm officer touched a control. "This is Captain Gærn of the Aesir destroyer AFS Volklang. I am on a patrol route and your vessel appeared on our scanners. We came to investigate this occurrence. Stand down or prepare to be destroyed. This is your only warning." She then looked at the comm officer and nodded to signal ending the recording.
"Recording complete."
"Run it through the translation matrix and overlap the translation on top of my voice but make it intelligible for both sides then send it."
"Yes, Ma'am." The officer worked his controls for a couple minutes. "Message sent."
"Now let's hope we don't have to start a war here..."
-
Wanderer-class Lockhead
Sector (-25, 8 )
After a long silence, one of the communications officers spoke. "We've just received a transmission sir, but..."
"Go on ahead. What did it say?"
"It's a digital audio-video message. We need some time to decode it properly."
"Very well then, hurry up."
Some time passed. Neither ship moved relative to each other, but both of them continued their parabolic descent towards the planet below them.
"Sir," The pilot said cautiously, "we're going to have to either fire our engines or enter hyperdrive soon."
The lieutenant folded his hands. "I know."
More time passed. The pilot tapped her many fingers on the controls impatiently. The hands of the weapons officers trembled slightly, waiting breathlessly for the command. The planet was closer, taking up most of the window now (along with the UFO).
"Sir, this is do or die. I need to know what to do now."
"You have five minutes to make a maneuver. I can read your computer, you know."
She shook her head. "Five minutes is a generous estimate, and doesn't take into account that we have to make a good landing."
The lieutenant twitched. "What's the status on the decryption?"
The communications ensign didn't look up from his screen. "Finishing touches, sir. Just need to align the visual field, and... there. Done."
"Good. Play it now."
An unknown, very lizard-like animal in some kind of power armor appeared on the screen. The creature's lips moved as they pronounced alien words, but a computerized voice speaking the Damli language was heard.
<"This is Captain Gærn of the Aesir destroyer AFS Volklang. I am on a patrol route and your vessel appeared on our scanners. We came to investigate this occurrence. Stand down or prepare to be destroyed. This is your only warning.">
The lieutenant stared at the screen, even once it went black. "They know our language," he muttered to himself in disbelief. "How?"
The pilot interjected. "Sir, I need an order now or I'm putting us into hyperspace."
"All weapons, disengage," the lieutenant ordered, "but keep the target locked on." The electric whistling of lasers and railguns powering down sounded through the cabin. Outside, glowing lasers turned dim and wavered against the side of the vessel.
"Pilot, prepare our course for a rough atmospheric entry. The scouting mission will continue. As soon as I send a message to the UFO, be ready to fire the engines."
"Aye sir. I'll do my best, but be quick."
"Communications, ready a transmitter for me."
The ensign clicked several buttons, causing lights to blink on and off on his display. "Transmitter ready, sir. Begin recording... Now."
"We are respecting your wishes for peace by temporarily deactivating our external weapons. However, in duty to our species, we must continue our mission to the surface of this planet. Attempt to interfere, and we will be forced to react with violence." As soon as the lieutenant stopped talking, the message was beamed at the ship.
"Message sent, sir!"
He nodded and turned to the pilot. "Now, Eja!" She pulled down on the controls and shifted her body backwards.
The ship shuddered as a jet of blue green fire was breathed out from the circular engines behind it. The Aesir ship gave the illusion of accelerating away, as the Wanderer-class began it's descent.
-
Communications Records
IRW Venator Stellarum
Avon, Avonite Enclave
Subcommander Semal recoiled in shock as the Avonite cruisers came from the back side of the planet into sensor range. He hailed the captain on an encrypted channel. "Captain, we are having to modify plans slightly. We are going to attempt a low-level tactical extraction of you and your security contingent. Our current plan has been, blocked, for the time being. Semal out."
He turned to the bridge and opened a ship-wide channel, "Attention Venator Stellarum crew. This is acting commander Semal. Prepare for atmospheric decent. Weapons stations, launch 50 cloaked mines. 10 at each cruiser. Don't worry about giving them any sort of movement commands. The interdiction fields will do that on their own. And ensure the mines are maximum yield, too. We don't want them capable of following us, and I'm not entirely sure how much power Avonite interdiction fields draw from their power grids."
He watched as the green engines of the Tavara warmed up, just as the cloaked mines were about halfway to the Avonite ships...
"Engage engines full sublight. If the mines don't take care of them they'd be fools to follow us into the atmosphere with their gravity fields on. I can only assume they want their planet intact..." he grinned. The hunt has begun.
-
Captain Gærn
AFS Volklang
Sector (-25, 8 )
"They've powered down their weapons."
"We're receiving another message. This one is video."
"The alien vessel is entering the atmosphere."
Gærn looked to her helmsman first. "Keep us in orbit over their location. Let me know where they land." She then looked to her tactical officer. "Keep weapons and shields powered. If more show up, we will fight our way out." Finally, she turned to her comm officer. "Run the audio through the translation matrix then overlap the translation onto the video and play it."
The three officers worked their stations, and the tasks were performed. The ship maintained orbit above the Exodite vessel, and the message was successfully translated.
"We are respecting your wishes for peace by temporarily deactivating our external weapons. However, in duty to our species, we must continue our mission to the surface of this planet. Attempt to interfere, and we will be forced to react with violence."
"The officer's body does match the appearance of the Damli," remarked the tactical officer. "However, the Damli were last observed to being without computers. Though the observation was made over a thousand years ago.."
"Makes me wonder what they're doing with a starship..." The Captain was silent for a moment, thinking about her options. "Load two Valkyries with tactical Drekrekkr and a third with Sækjar and Einherjar split evenly. I'll be joining this landing, so leave room for me in the first Valkyrie."
"Yes, Ma'am."
"Inform me of the moment they land. I need to know where they'll be conducting this mission of theirs."
-
The surface of Satryon IV,
Sector (-25, 8 )
Thanks to the skills of the Pilot Eja, the diligence of the Flight Engineers, and a large amount of sheer luck, the Wanderer-class Dropship Lockhead made it's landing from the steep orbital path. According to the Fleet Engineers and Marines who kept rushing in and out of the ship in their space suits, the hull only sustained minor damage. Of more concern were the several trees that the white-hot lander had lit on fire in the chaos of the orbital descent, but these were eventually stopped as well when the last flames were extinguished with chemical fire retardants.
Ensign Keb Diden didn't take this turn of events well. He ended up doing nothing but exactly what his training required and being aware of only what he needed to be. Constantly, he scanned the surrounding skies for targets to order his Lesser Weapons Officers to engage. Birds, odd clouds of water vapor or plumes of smoke, the occasional rustling of bushes; it all fell under Keb's watchful eye until even the zealous LWOs began to get annoyed with him. Finally, after hours of this, a LWO complained to his Section Leader that Keb was being unreasonable, and he was permitted to take a break and leave the ship.
Light poured outside onto green grass as the door to the Lockhead opened. Ensign Keb walked into the darkness, led by a bright chest-mounted flashlight. The ship hand landed in what might be a seasonal river bed: now, it was a short grassland strewn with sandy patches and large stones. The flat expanse was flanked by dark, thick forest on all sides. In the distance, he saw a bonfire and some lights indicative of Exodite technology and decided to approach. Around the fire were about a dozen Soldiers from the Army. As a general rule, unless you were a Marine, most members of the Fleet (and especially Admiralty) don't tend to fraternize with those from the Army. Keb was not most Admiralty. When he was bored, he liked to eat with the Soldiers and hear what their stories and experiences. Somehow they seemed to be more insightful (or at least more entertaining) than the usual bland talk of the Fleet personnel.
"Ensign Keb," said a older Soldier who recognized him, "Welcome, sir! You know you can take off your helmet, right?"
Keb nodded silently, vaguely remembering that the toxicology report that the elderly Occultist had given soon after landing had apparently demonstrated "prime habitability". He took off his helmet and breathed in. The air was crisp and tart, and although he could smell the wood fire and cooking meat nearby, the air was insanely clear.
"Heard you made first contact, Diden."
Keb sat down on a log, a ways away from the fire. They were cooking some kind of horned and hoofed quadruped on a spit. They must have been out hunting earlier. All the soldiers were looking at him. "Yeah, I guess that's true, in a way."
"You don't seem impressed. Hell you almost seem scared." The Soldier must have noticed that Keb was pale and shaking.
"..."
"Come on, are you really that terrified of them? Their just aliens. That ship was big, yeah, but we have tens of thousands of ships that are way bigger. How weak are you?"
"Hod, shut up." The older Soldier barked. "Leave him alone."
"I just don't understand why he's so scared of a lizard-"
"I know you don't fucking get it," Keb suddenly snapped. "So let me spell it out for you."
He stood up and turned around, facing the stars. "Before about eight hours ago, we ruled the universe. In nearly a millennium of space flight, we encountered exactly one species that surpassed us, and we annihilated them on the field of battle ages ago. That reality is gone now. Yes, we trained for this moment. Yes, we studied and theorized about this. But nothing, no brilliance of mind, no advanced technology, no religion could have prepared us for this. We found life that was completely, utterly foreign, yet instead of being primitive, they had technology just like us, if not better. They knew our language, Hod. This mission and the few sentences the Lieutenant and I said to those 'lizards' could herald our greatest victory, but more likely it's the beginning of our extinction. Their mere existence is probably, without exaggeration, the worst thing to happen to the Damli. Ever."
The Soldiers around the bonfire were silent. The spectacle of stars above them now seemed oddly hostile, like the alien constellations suddenly were empowered to fall down and kill them all at any moment. Ensign Keb shook his head and put back on his helmet. "I'm going back to the ship. Enjoy your... Whatever animal it is you killed." He grinned. "Save it for the Raid next time. Their food stores have to go somewhere, don't they? It would be a shame to have to torch it all." The soldiers laughed and returned to talking and feasting as the lone Ensign returned to the Lockhead.
-
Captain Gærn
AFS Volklang
Sector (-25, 8 )
"Exodite vessel has landed in an uninhabited forested area, but a colony of primitives lies just fifty kilometers from their location."
"Colors?"
"Dark greens and browns, Ma'am."
"Tactical, order the Drekrekkr to be painted with Forest Camo Pattern Ansuz," ordered the Captain.
"Aye, Ma'am. Painting will take roughly two hours."
"Very well." Gærn placed her helmet back upon her head and sealed it. "Comm, download the Damli language to my helmet's translator." The comm officer touched a few controls then nodded at her to signal it was complete. She then stood from her seat. "Tactical, you have the bridge." She walked out to join the Drekrekkr getting painted.
Two hours passed and the Drekrekkr and Captain were painted in a perplexing pattern of dark greens and browns. The soldiers loaded into their designated Valkyries and took hold of the hand grips. Pilots raised the ramps to seal the holding bays and began their preflight sequences. Engines roared to life, and the Valkyries were cleared for launch. The landing bay door in the underside of the destroyer opened up, and the three Valkyries zoomed out and descended right for the planet surface.
From the surface, the three Valkyries appeared as balls of fire as they passed through the upper atmosphere. Entering the lower atmosphere, their engines' glow made it clear these weren't meteorites falling to the planet surface. The Aesir dropships made landing much more gracefully than the Exodites, their location between the Exodites and the local primitives but just ten kilometers from the Exodites.
Upon landing, the pilots lowered the ramps, and 39 tactical Drekrekkr, 10 Sækjar, and 10 Einherjar flooded out, setting up a perimeter and locking down the area. One Drekrekkr stabbed a device which looked similar to a spear into the ground, and the top of the device opened up to form a long range communication transmitter and receiver. The Captain was the last one to step out onto the land.
"Tactical, we're clear down here," she said using the transmitter to boost her signal. "Keep an eye out for anymore ships. We will contact you again when our situation has changed."
"Yes, Ma'am," the tactical officer acknowledged.
"Sækjar, scout out the Damli. I want to know everything they're doing on this planet. If one so much as sneezes, report it."
"Yes, Captain," acknowledged the Sækjar Sergeant. The ten Sækjar moved out and disappeared into the forest like ghosts.
"The rest of us will be holding here until we have more information about these people."
"What if the locals come to investigate?" asked the Drekrekkr Veteran Sergeant.
"Let them investigate. We are here to defend them if that is necessary. I want all guns pointed away from the locals. When they come looking, I don't want to be seen as hostile."
"Yes, Captain."
The Sækjar moved swiftly through the forest, crossing the distance in a half hour. They found the camps, crude fires with Damli around them, and reported it back. They continued their observations from the darkness of the forest, reporting back any technology and Damli behaviors they saw, all throughout the night.
-
Diplomatic Convoy to Romulans
Near Romulan Border
"Ma'am," shouted the comms officer. "Incoming transmission! We've arrived at the right place! These are the Romulans we were looking for. They're asking us to lower shields and to prepare for boarding by 'Romulan Star Empire Customs and Border Enforcement Officials'". What should I say?"
A smile slowly formed on Donna's face. Those vague directions paid off! As she listened to the comms officer, her smile faded. They wanted to board her ship, and she didn't have the conference room set up. She quickly replied, "Lower the shields and let them know we'll be waiting." Donna turned to face an officer. "Get the conference room set up. Stat!" she commanded. The officer nodded, saluted, and was on his way.
Donna's heart was beating out of her chest. She'd been training for this all her life, but now that the moment had arrived. Was she ready?
Wallace White - Diplomat to Aesir
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
"Hmm... what do you have in terms of luxury items? They're sure to sell and could help strengthen our economy," replied Wallace. He was thinking about all the new items that could be introduced to Lernaea through trade, through him. It made him feel proud that he could improve Lernaea in ways that others before him could never do.
ISA Headquarters
Undisclosed Location on Protheus
Sector (-18,1)
Garriot opened communications with Science's mission and transmitted information regarding where to land and begin construction on their embassy.
Diplomatic Mission to Science
Sector (-12, 24)
As soon as Knight received instructions from Science, she punched in the coordinates as to where to land, and got her crew to start construction on the embassy.
-
Aboard the Wanderer-class Lockhead, on the surface of Satryon IV,
Sector (-25, 8 )
Shortly after Keb returned, the leaders and important officers who were aboard the ship were summoned to a meeting on the bridge. Ensign Keb Diden, Lieutenant Sih Ledif, Pilot Eja Sijed, and the two Second Lieutenants were all there. Also present was the ship's Occultist (an elderly woman by the name of Ihe Kenom), as well as the Army Major, flanked by two Scouts.
"Alright, I'll skip to the formalities and get straight to the point," began the Lieutenant. "I trust you all have some idea of why you are here. Although I am, of course, the commanding officer of this mission, and although my word is final, I have summoned you here because of the unprecedented situation we find ourselves in. Each of you here has experience and knowledge that will assist me in making the right choice, both for the Exodite Dominion and for our species as a whole. Is that understood?"
"Aye sir," those present answered almost in unison. Lieutenant Ledif nodded.
"Good. Right now, we have two options: carry on with the Scouting raid, or leave immediately and return to the fleet to alert the Admiralty. Ihe? What is your opinion."
The elderly wanderer woman stood up, her lip quivering. "What should we do?" She scoffed angrily. "Sir, we shouldn't even be on this planet. We should have turned around this damn spaceship as soon as we saw those... creatures! You and that bastard Ensign doomed us all!"
The room went into an uproar until the electric whistle of four laser pistols charging up at once was heard. "ENOUGH!" Lieutenant Ledif roared, holding a gun in each of his hands. "Occultist Ihe, you have made your opinion perfectly clear. That is one vote for leaving immediately. Now, Major Jiden, what do you think?"
The Major, an older man, paused for a moment. The Lieutenant and the Scouts were suddenly preoccupied with their arm computers. "I can certainly see Ihe's point of view but..."
"Excuse me, sir," one of the Army Scouts interrupted, "but I just received word from the other Scouts. Three reentry signatures were detected, and they landed about ten kilometers away."
"The signals and detection Ensigns have confirmed this as well. We're being followed."
The Major was silent for a moment. "Well, I don't believe they will stop us. What would they care about a lone tribe of primitives? Frankly, we should be rushing to beat them to the punch."
"I agree," Keb said. "Worst case scenario, they try and intercept us, we engage their dropships, and we make a hyperspace dash for the fleet. Best case scenario, we do a raid, come back, and tell them what we saw here." Noises of agreement echoed through the cabin, notably absent from both the Occultist and the Pilot.
"I'm liking this plan," the Lieutenant admitted. "Eja, do you think we can do it? Do we have enough fuel reserves?"
"I think you're all a little crazy, sir. We should be tracking these guys down and studying them, forget the primitives." She brushed back her hair. "However, it's definitely a possible plan. We have enough fuel to fly over every inch of this planet, and then some."
Lieutenant Ledif nodded. "Very well, it's settled. Major Jiden, where is the closest primitive settlement? We'll fly there."
"I don't know, I think-"
Suddenly, the sound of laughing Soldiers and an alien voice crying for help could be heard as the main door opened. A terrified, blue-skinned humanoid in a loincloth and tattoos was dragged into the ship before the surprised council and suddenly fell silent. A triumphantly smirking Scout spoke first.
"Sir, we've captured one of the natives who were snooping around our landing site. I think I know where the settlement he came from is. That would be a good place to do the Raid, wouldn't it?"
The Major and Lieutenant, along with most of the officers, chuckled. Keb only grinned slightly, and Eja and the Occultist frowned. "How fortunate! There's the answer to that question! Very well. We attack tomorrow night, and then we leave immediately. In the meantime, keep your guard up and watch for those interlopers. Dismissed! Take him to the Cells." The officers departed, and the Soldiers took the still struggling primitive away.
Hours later, Keb was pacing the ship when he passed the Cells. The Cells were unique to Scout ships, secure places where they kept seized items and life from other planets. Already they were beginning to be occupied by plant life, soil samples, and small animals. Through a small airlock window, he saw Occultist Kenom cleaning a small amount of blood off her examination table and packing away her instruments. He decided to enter.
"Good evening, ma'am."
"Oh, Ensign Keb. Welcome! Sorry for the mess, I was just cleaning up here. Do come in." The door shut behind Keb as he entered the Cell.
Behind the Occultist, the captured primitive was curled up on the cold metal floor of his containment, naked except for some bloodstained bandages on his arms and legs. The chained alien watched the two Damli warily with tired and broken eyes. This slightly disturbed Keb, who decided to turn and face Ihe.
"The life here is... strange. Especially that one. Looks similar to us."
"Interesting specimen, is he not? Superficially similar, yes, but they also have similar biochemistry, too. At the cellular level, anyways. A very fortunate discovery."
"Indeed." He coughed. "By the way, ma'am, I forgive you for calling me a 'bastard' at the assembly today."
"That's very good, young man, but I never offered an apology, nor do I intend to."
"I know."
Keb watched as she stowed away the last of her tools. Scalpels, scanners, and a variety of filled syringes were put into a padded metal box for safekeeping and for purification.
"I'm afraid I don't exactly understand your logic, ma'am. Why should we run? Yes, I was concerned too, especially after I saw their ship, but I steeled my courage and-"
"You misunderstand me, Ensign," the old Occultist said sharply. "It is not any mortal aliens that I fear."
"Then what is it, ma'am?"
"I fear what will happen to us in the near future." She pressed a button on the storage box, sealing it and sending in a burst of super hot steam to purify it. "Are you aware of the legend of the men of the shadows?"
Ensign Keb folded his arms. "I am."
"How they hide in the darkness, waiting to strike at the haughty and evil?"
"Yes. You believe in such superstitions?" Keb started laughing. "Do you really believe that demons wait in the shadows, like a child would? How backwards! To think that you're a military Occultist!"
"The demons in our stories hardly ever are such, young one." She waved her hands and shuffled over to a computer and started entering some information. "Oh, no. They're nothing that simple. Let me explain the parable to you in simple terms: we are the evil men, and the shadows are the unknown. Those 'lizards' are simply a small, infinitesimal facet of that unknown."
Keb raised his eyebrows. "I'm not sure I follow... How are we the evil men, ma'am? We're the pinnacle of civilization, the defenders of our species-"
"Keb, let me ask you something. Are we the only species with souls? Are we the only species with a psychic presence?"
"Uh, yes. Why?"
The Occultist shook her head sadly. "Then you've fallen for the propaganda." She turned and looked Ensign Keb directly in his eyes. "Each of these intelligent species, every primitive we've ever exterminated or lorded over, has a psychic presence. And only sentient, feeling beings have such presences. Yes, even that primitive humanoid in the corner over there, even he has a soul. A large one, too."
Keb stepped away. "That... That can't be true... You're lying! You're planning some kind of sedition!"
"You know it is true, deep in your heart. This is something every Occultist knows and will tell you if you ask in private, but they are not allowed to proclaim. Every war fought, every planet conquered, every life enslaved is another mark against us. One day, maybe not soon, but one day, we will get what is coming to us."
The box stopped hissing, and Occultist Ihe picked it up with surprising strength. Keb stepped in front of her, hand on his laser pistol holster.
"Renounce what you said immediately, or I'll report you to the Admiralty. They'll kill you for your treasonous thoughts!"
She sighed. "Keb, I am a old woman. I am on the threshold of death already, and my life has known all kinds of pain. There is nothing you can say or do to get me to renounce my words. What you think of as 'treason' is merely the truth. Turning me over to some Marine brute will never change that." Ihe walked past him with a grunt. "Besides, telling the Admiralty might not actually be such a bad idea. If they believe you, and if that vile Admiral Henod admits what he along with all other Occultists knows, then maybe we will have a chance at redemption. Good night, young Ensign."
Occultist Ihe Kenom exited the room and the door shut. Keb stood there, dumbfounded. He slowly turned towards where the primitive had been earlier and looked at him.
The naked blue humanoid was now standing, tears coming down from his large eyes, holding his tattooed hands in silvery chains out towards him from behind the plexiglass screen. He was begging the Ensign to let him go home, promising to be a good person if he could leave, crying for his family and asking Keb to take him if it means we will spare them, all in a language that Keb never would understand.
Despite that, he understood everything.
Suddenly overwhelmed with horror, Ensign Keb stumbled back, knocking an empty metal stand over, and ran from the room. As the door shut behind him, he fell against the mithrillium walls, covered his head with his hands and closed his eyes.
I have to continue my mission. I'm
among the Admiralty, damn it! She's wrong, she's... It's old age. That's it. She's beginning to doubt herself as death approaches. Can't blame her for that. I'll... I'll file a report when we go home, get the Lieutenant to sign it. The Army can give her an honorable discharge, and she can retire somewhere nice. A good forest planet like this one, maybe...
After his breathing calmed and he settled down, Ensign Keb Diden stood up and left the hallway, returning to the officer's quarters. Tomorrow was a big day, the first Scout Raid he has ever been a part of, and he couldn't let something like this get to him.
-
30 YEARS AGO
Admiral Lajardi Voidwatcher, CPS Absolution, in orbit around Tannhauser
"It's... it's not Avonite." Kir Darkcloak stood, staring at the...station. "I have no idea what it is. The whole station seems to be the device!" She was in awe, that was for sure. "It looks like that section there somehow..amplifies a hyperlane. If a ship went through it, I'd say that they would be shot through space faster than... well, than anything I can think of! But where does it lead?" A navigation officer spoke up. "Given our current position and where the station is pointing, it leads....nowhere. It points away from the galactic core and we're on the edge of Avonite space. I'd say that it leads nowhere." Lar felt a great unease just being here. "How does this relate to time? I thought you said that the station had something to do with time." Kir nodded. "Its possible they meant saving time. As in, taking less time to go somewhere. Just imagine what this technology could do!" Lar nodded. "Oh, I can imagine. Our science crews can take it from here, Kir. I appreciate you coming down here. I'll make sure you get a report of our findings." He nodded at Kir and left, saying over his shoulder "And I expect that raincheck!" Kir laughed as she signaled her shuttle. Within the hour, she was out of the system.
Dr Lim Fadegrazer, Fortunes End, in orbit around the moon Fortune
Lim studied the controls. Darkcloak was right, this was not Avonite.... no one in their right mind would design a language like this, he laughed to himself. The Shepard scientists seemed to be even more reluctant to study this ship than he was. Something about "Spode's will". As a scientist, Dr Lim had no time for religion in his work. Get the job done, then ask Spode for forgiveness. After all... what was that? The console lit up. An alien voice spoke in a language he did not understand. What? The whole station started shuddering, the walls where groaning as systems powered up. Two lights where blinking on the console. Desperate, Dr Lim pressed the one on the right. The shuddering intensified, then stopped. Dr Lim laughed.
Admiral Lajardi Voidwatcher, CPS Absolution
"What the hell happened? What's going on in that station? If this keeps up, it'll tear itself apart! Get Dr Fadegrazer on the line, now!" Just as he said it, the station stopped shuddering. "Wha...." was all Admiral Voidwatcher could say before his ship got pulled into a lightspeed jump. Not just the Absolution, soon the entire 1st fleet was pulled into lightspeed jumps to an unknown destination. The 1st Conclave fleet, and the civilian transport fleet, was just....gone.
PRESENT DAY
Admiral Fir Hanover, AES Murphy, in orbit around Avon
"Sir, the Romulan ship is fleeing towards the surface. Current trajectory suggests the capital. Fir smiled. That was one thing about their weapons he loved. The range. "Fire the forward MAGs. I want that Romulan vessel under fire as it slinks to the surface." The weapons officer spoke up. "Sir, if we miss, we might hit civilian targets." Fir leaned back in his chair. "What's a few more dead civilians? Fire." The silence was unbroken as the main guns of all 5 ships fired. "And alert our ground batteries. That Romulan vessel will make a fine target......"
Captain Hik Fallenjager, Avonite Reclamation Station 9, in orbit around Tannhauser
Hik liked his job. Quiet backwater in the middle of nowhere. The only thing interesting thing to ever happen here was the disappearance of the 1st fleet. Other than that, nothing. A nice quiet place to ride out till retirement. "Sir, we...I..." the diagnostics officer stuttered as he stared at his screen. "What is it, Ensign?" The Ensign tried to compose himself. "I...there's a whole fleet jumping into the system, sir!" The captain laughed. "You must be mistaken. What fleet would.." He was cut off by the sudden appearance of over 500 ships in orbit around Tannhauser. Hik stared in utter disbelief. What...how....Spode! "BATTLESTATIONS!" he bellowed. One ship in particular caught his eye. He must be dreaming.... he could have sworn it said ABSOLUTION on its side......
-
Communications Records
IRW Venator Stellarum
Avon, Avonite Enclave
"Sir! Avonite vessels firing forward batteries!!"
"Divert reserve power to aft shields! Use environmental if you have to. We can last without fresh air longer than we can against those vessels!"
Subcommander Semal paused, then resumed speaking, "ETA on the cloaked mines to the Avonite vessels!!"
"Fifteen seconds, Subcommander!"
"Level off! Activate cloak! Change heading immediately! Divert course to the southern hemisphere and prepare for landing! Hopefully the Commander and Darkcloak have made it out alive..."
Romulan Vessel IRW Pevatha
Tavara-class Battlecruiser
Romulan Border Zone
"Sir! The vessels are lowering shields and preparing for boarding."
"Alert Major Ledaren. Have the Tal Shiar and the Naval Infantry load into shuttles. Decloak the Pevatha. Just don't scare them too much." Commander Tovanus smiled. And I thought Border Patrol Duty was going to be boring.
"Open Hailing Frequencies including visual."
"Unidentified Alien Vessels. I am Commander Tovanus, and behalf of the Senate and People of Romulus, I am pleased to welcome you to the Romulan Empire. Firstly, I must thank you for acquiescing to the requests of the Tal Shiar. They are most appreciative of your cooperation.
Additionally, I would like to ask permission to either come aboard your vessel or invite you to come aboard ours for more informal meetings and negotiation. We should also be pleased to escort your fleet to Systema Imperatoris and Romulus itself in the event that the Senate determines negotiations and a diplomatic presence would be beneficial to Empire, which I am sure is the case.
Thank you for your time, cooperation, and, Romulus willing, friendship with the Empire. I await your response with great anticipation." "End Transmission! Prepare for response! Prepare the officer's dining hall in the event that they choose to come here, and prepare the ceremonial guard."
AvCom
Industries Spirit, Avon
Avonite Enclave
"Shall we take my shuttle to SHACom, Councillor? I do not believe it would be in the interest of any of us to stick around here with cruisers positioning for bombardment, especially with the Stellarum presently occupied..." she trailed off. This whole situation is a disaster. Why is there no unified command in this damn society? How do they even function!? She angrily wondered to herself. Gela turned to her security contingent, "Lock down this area and prepare for emergency evacuation. We may have to use transporters if we can't get the shuttle here in time."
-
AvCom, Industries Spirit, Avon
Councilor Kir Darkcloak
"Commander, that would be a bad idea. SHACom could be in the hands of the rebels by now and a straight flight would take us over lots of potential enemy batteries. The best thing for it is to hold our ground here." Kir spoke as she hurried down the corridor towards the transmitter. "I need to call for reinforcements, however, and with all available police units already here, the army in disarray and the religious army either attacking us or sitting in the Sanctuary of Spode SHACom is the best hope for back up. If you really want to help stay here and cover me." She began climbing the ladder towards the transmitter.
AES Murphy, in orbit around Avon
Admiral Fir Hanover
"Sir, the Romulan ship is in cloak. Sensors are not picking it up." Fir laughed. A cloak, huh? Nice try. "Get the GSN (Gravaton Sensor Network) up. Find the gravity signature of that Romulan ship." A few moments passed before an ensign called out "I found it, sir! It's diverted course towards the Southern Hemisphere." Fir frowned. The southern hemisphere? Why on Avon was it going there?" I want every ground battery on the planet loyal to us fed that sensor data. Shoot that cruiser out of the sky." The ensign spoke up again "Sir, more gravity signatures from where the Romulan ship was before cloak. Readings indicate mines of some sort." Fir waved his hand. "Point defense systems, take care of it." Tracers from the chain guns emerged from all 5 ships, destroying the mines. Fir laughed to himself. "Get Vice Admiral Latchman on the line. Tell him to wait for me before starting the bombardment." The comms Ensign tapped the console. Nothing. He did it again and again. "Sir, I cant raise Vice Admiral Latchman. The Interdiction isn't responding to hails." Fir nodded. "Maybe his comms unit is damaged. Call all the ships in our fleet one by one until you get a response." The comms Ensign tapped his console until he got a response. "Sir, I have the Cartographer on the line. Sending the link to the main view screen now." Fir took a drink from his cup just as the view screen activated. A scream and explosions made Fir spit his water out. "Admiral Hanover! This is Acting Commander Paritview! Captain Edselman is dead! The Interdiction was destroyed, along with the Terminus, Adelcourt, Dismas, Fabin Hill, Parity, Will Of The People and Unity of Will. The Silent Witness, Honor Guard, Follower Of The Light and Harmonious Choir are heavily damaged, along with the Cartographer! Admiral Scarhealer's fleet in attacking!" Fir stood up. Spodedamnit.....
-
Ambassador Herjall
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
"Ah." She leaned forward more and rested her arms on the table in front of her. "So this is why you were so willing to be helpful. I will admit my home nation is mostly a nation of warriors. We don't have many things in terms of luxury items, as our society is mostly dominated by the military culture. We do however produce many different cookies which were renowned throughout the galaxy as the best. These, as well as lightweight and comfortable furniture which isn't so easily broken," hinting at how easily she pulled the arms off the chair which she is currently sitting on, "and our collective scientific studies.
"I apologize for not having much to give, but times are a little rough."
Captain Gærn
Satyron IV
Sector (-25, 8 )
Dawn broke, and Gærn had the information she wanted. Everything they were doing was in preparation for some Raid. She could not allow the local population to be taken advantage of.
"Captain Gærn to AFS Volklang. Transfer all Drekrekkr to the surface except Berserkers. Equip the Einherjar with twenty mil's instead of thirteen mil's."
"Aye, Ma'am," was their response.
"And contact our forward base in the neighboring sector. Requisition a frigate."
"Yes, Ma'am." The most enthusiastic 'Yes, Ma'am' she had ever heard. It actually made her smile.
The smile soon faded though, as she realized the implications of what was happening. An armed conflict being started between the Aesir Empire and the Exodites. Aesir lives would be lost from this, and it would be because of her. She needed to try and get the Exodites to turn around, to use force as a last resort.
"You two," she said as she pointed to two Tactical Drekrekkr. "On me."
She ran the distance to the Damli, taking 40 minutes, then slowed to a slow walk (more of a brisk pace to humans) just before coming into view of some of them. She routed her external communications through the translator and spoke one phrase.
"Take me to the one in charge."
-
The Wanderer-class Lockhead, on the surface of Satryon IV,
Sector (-25, 8 )
The engines of the ship and Soldiers alike roared as the Lockhead prepared for its mission in the predawn hours. The Lieutenant gave the customary speech to the Warriors to prepare them for battle as they stood out on the rocky field between the two forests.
"Today is the beginning of our domination over this planet! The people, the life, all the wealth, even the skies and ground itself belong to us!" The Warriors roared and raised their weapons in approval. "Today, we will show them the first of that they all will know in the future: the Exodite Dominion is their master, and that they will serve us until the end of existence! We, not these blue humanoids, not the giant lizards who were too cowardly to engage us, are the conquerors of the known universe! NOW GO AND CONQUER!"
The Soldiers cheered as they loaded their weapons and prepared to board the ship, ready for war. Suddenly, a Scout appeared from the shadows next to the Lieutenant.
"Sir, those lizards are here. They approached us from their landing site."
Slowly, the three lizards approached. They stood tall over even the largest Warriors, and their armor, forged from some unknown metal, glinted in the morning sun. The sight of these giant beasts was unholy and alien, an aberration of nature itself. The guns and eyes of every Damli were on them, and what had once been a cheering and loud mass of Damli turned into a rigid and silent line of soldiers. A lone Soldier approached the lead one, guns in his hands, but stopped dead in his tracks when a mysterious computerized voice spoke:
"Take me to the one in charge."
Major Jiden approached him. "Looks like they are looking for you, Lieutenant. Shall I retrieve my War Mantle?"
"Yes, hurry. But don't attack until I need you."
"Very well. I await your command." The Major, along with the Fleet crew, boarded the ship. The silver-grey hull kicked up clouds of green flame and dust as it hesitated, shuddering with her Pilot's waiting. The Lieutenant, armed with his four laser pistols in their holsters, stepped forward. He spoke in the Damli tongue.
"What do you want? What are you doing here? I told you not to get in our way!"
-
Captain Gærn
Satyron IV
Sector (-25, 8 )
She watched as one stepped forward towards her. He did not look pleased to see her at all.
"What do you want? What are you doing here? I told you not to get in our way!"
"I would be dishonored if I turned a blind eye while you raid this planet and its inhabitants. I have a thousand advanced soldiers to command, dropships to strafe your vessel with, and reinforcements on the way. I will ask you only once to pack up and leave. If you don't, I will have no option but to open fire.
"A single battle here can mean years of war between our nations. I do not believe this to be beneficial to either of our people's. Please withdraw from this planet."
-
Anti Air Planetary Defensive Battery AES-17-D44, Central Avon
Lieutenant Pav Dillseeker
Lieutenant Dillseeker scanned the readings from the GSN. The Romulan Ship was on a direct course towards the battery. At this range, with the ship in orbit, Pav didn't have to worry about energy dissipation. They would get maximum damage. "FIRE THE MAIN CANNONS!" He yelled into his command mic. Over 75 massive Anti-ship Planetary Based SuperMAGuns fired. These were 4 times the size of anything you got in a Cruiser. They could punch through a Pendleton in one shot. And they fired on the Romulan battlecruiser.
Avonite Reclamation Station 9, in orbit around Avon
Captain Hik Fallenjager
He wasn't dreaming. This was real. That was the Absolution. So then this had to be the First Fleet of the Conclave. The readings indicated that the ships had been both heavily damaged, repaired and modified. That Fleet was packing tech from beyond what they had 30 years ago. Hopefully they were friendly... "Open a hailing frequency. I want to talk to the Absolution. Get me what files we have." The comms Ensign nodded and tapped into his console. Soon, a link with video was on the main view screen. Every one stopped dead in their tracks. What the hell was THAT?
-
Communications Records
IRW Venator Stellarum
Avon, Avonite Enclave
"Subcommander!" a Sublieutenant shouted, "The Avonites have destroyed the cloaked mines!"
Subcommander Semal spun around. "Drop cloak and dive! That's an order! We're going in hot! Divert superlight propulsion to impulse engines! Divert auxiliary power to shields! We're going 200 metres above the surface. Perhaps lower!"
"Subcommander! Gun emplacements on the surface appear to have locked on to our position. Recommend targeting with quantum torpedoes and main forward disruptors."
"Excellent idea, Centurion! Feed sensor data to all weapons stations and allow them to select targets at will. Maximum priority will be the survival of this vessel. Prepare for a bombing run with mines. Change course to Commander Gela's position at AvCom. Employ long range sensor data. Alert Tal Shiar SpecOps to prepare for a precision rescue operation. Alert Naval Infantry to prepare for assault."
Semal paused again, struggling with something. After a brief moment, he spoke, "Alert the Tal Shiar on a secure channel. Any nearby vessels that could be dispatched would be greatly appreciated. Dispatch the same message to Fleet Command."
AvCom
Industries Spirit, Avon
Avonite Enclave
"Very well, Councillor. It's your planet, I suppose." She turned to her security contingent, speaking in Romulan "Irrhaefau neijh fire for Darkcloak. We'll be here fvior."
Her 30-strong security force, minus the 10 troopers that had taken the shuttle to safety, now fanned out around the roof, and began firing down on any stray shots that neared the climbing Councillor, and on whichever Avonites were firing at the bottom of the building, as well.
-
Outside the Wanderer-class Lockhead, on the surface of Satryon IV,
Sector (-25, 8 )
Lieutenant Ledif was utterly baffled by the lizard's threat. "What... What are you trying to say to me?" He paused for a second. "If these people are already your subjects, and if you have already conquered all this, then I sincerely apologize for intruding on your domain and will depart immediately. If you have not conquered this planet and have no interest to... I fail to see what you are trying to accomplish by defending this planet. Why would you protect the primitives?"
Behind the Lieutenant, the Lockhead exhaled as all but five soldiers and the Occultist boarded the ship. The Soldiers still leveled their weapons at the aliens, and the Occultist looked on, shaking her head slowly with a quivering lower lip. Through his electronic display, Ensign Keb watched the scene while targeting the lizards with his lasers. He suddenly remembered his conversation the previous night with the old woman and became extremely uneasy.
"All LWOs on laser weapons, get ready to engage on my command. The ship may have to make a run for it." he said quietly into his command communicator.
"Roger that, Ensign."
"Copy, charging weapons."
-
Captain Gærn
Satyron IV
Sector (-25, 8 )
"Every person, every sentient being, has the right to live and the right to be free. You have these rights, I have these rights, and even these primitives have these rights. Your existence on this planet, your plans to conduct this Raid, they both threaten those rights for these people. If you go ahead with this Raid, you will have taken away those rights from these people. You have no authority, no right, to do so.
"If this is beyond your ability to comprehend, then it is clear your species is not ready for space travel. If you do go forward with this Raid, you will suffer for it. I promise you that."
The Captain made a series of clicks to her two Drekrekkr, and the three turned and began to walk back in the direction from which they came.
AFS Volklang
In orbit over Satyron IV
"Comm, ETA on frigate reinforcements?" the tactical officer asked.
"Thirty minutes."
"Drekrekkr Captain, proceed to drop to the surface when ready."
"Drop heard," came the voice over the internal comms. "ETA 30 minutes."
"Comm, ask the frigate Captain to be ready to drop Wolves upon arrival."
"Aye, Sir."
-
The Wanderer-class Lockhead, on the surface of Satryon IV,
Sector (-25, 8 )
The Lieutenant stood there for a moment, dumbfounded. "What!? What right do the primitives have to any of that? They're here to be enslaved by superior civilizations, not shielded like a pet! THEY EXIST TO BE CONQUERED!"
His words fell on deaf ears as the three Aesir trotted away into the distance. The Soldiers stood in confusion.
"What was that all about, sir?" Lieutenant Ledif shook his head.
"I have no idea. Forget it, prepare for battle!" He left the field, followed by the rest of the Warriors. The lone Occultist stood outside for a moment, shaking her head sadly before she left the scorched field.
"He will never change his resolve. This is it..." She muttered as the door closed behind her.
As the Lieutenant entered the ship with the other Soldiers, Major Jiden came up next to him in a War Mantle. "I'm assuming the encounter went well."
"It did not. However, we are continuing the Raid anyways. I will not let these damn lizards dictate our species. Take that War Mantle off and make sure it is charged."
"Yes sir!"
The two parted from each other and approached the bridge.
Ensign Keb was listening and watching the whole thing through his targeting monitor. His heart sunk, and something deep within his soul told him that he needed to act, and that he needed to act now. Keb noticed that the two Second Lieutenants happened to be outside of the bridge, leaving Pilot Eja, the Major Weapons Officer, and the Communications Ensign.
"They're going through with the Raid."
Eja was surprised. "Really?"
"Yes," the Comms. Ensign responded. "Even though they received an explicit threat from those lizards... We might be destroyed for this!"
Eja grumbled. "I just knew those idiots would do something like that... What the hell are they thinking?"
Keb uncoupled himself from his chair. "I don't know, but we have to stop them."
He walked over to the door and started to seal it.
"Eja, make a dash for hyperspace. If we can get to the fleet before-" Suddenly there was a ray of light, and Ensign Keb screamed in pain and collapsed.
The Major Weapons Officer stood up, holding a humming phaser. "Who the hell do you think you are?" The Warrior moved forward and began to unlock the door. He growled at the Ensign, who was on the floor convulsing. The electron bolt didn't even give him a chance. "He thinks he can just disobey orders because he thinks he knows better! And you all just... went along with it?! You all make me sick!"
The Lieutenant and the higher officers arrived with a few Soldiers, and saw the MWO standing over Ensign Diden.
"What is going on here?"
"He tried to stage a mutiny in order to return to the Fleet prematurely, sir! I stunned him before he could lock the bridge doors."
The Lieutenant was visibly surprised. "Keb? Is this true?" Keb had slightly recovered by this point from the phaser blast and tried to push himself up, looking with anger at the officers who were staring at him.
"You..." he gasped through still seizing lungs, "you're... going to get us... all killed... the whole Fleet..." He collapsed again and began losing consciousness.
Lieutenant Ledif's face twisted with both anger and grief.
"You betrayed me... I don't want to believe it, yet here you are... You know, it's funny. I almost considered you like a son." He shook his head. "Two Soldiers, take him away and put him in the Cells. We will deal with this later, after the Raid. The rest, stay here and make sure nobody else gets a bright idea."
"Aye, sir." Two large, armored soldiers dragged the limp Keb away.
As they threw the half-dead Ensign into the cell with the frightened primitive, the Lockhead rose above the trees, and began to slowly course towards the village...
-
Anti Air Planetary Defensive Battery AES-17-D44, Central Avon
Lieutenant Pav Dillseeker
Targeting data was clear, at least 12 of the opening shots where on target. More shots fired. Other batteries started firing as well. They didn't stand a chance, thought Dillseeker....
AES Perdition, in orbit around Avon
Rear Admiral Jil Scarhealer
The attack had been, nominally, a success. At least 15 of their cruisers where out of action or destroyed. She hated having to resort to such tactics but she had no choice. She hoped that some of the crew had made it off those ships. 2 of hers had been lost in the fight. They hadn't been ready for a direct assault after forming up for orbital bmbardment. They where in the wrong position to defend. Oh well. She retreated back towards Minmus.
AvCom, Industries Spirit, Avon
Councilor Kir Darkcloak
She opened the diagnostics terminal. Wire connections.... ok......part repair....ok.....ah, that was it. The booster had been damaged in the attack. She opened the booster's casing. Shouldn't take more than 5 minutes but she was already under fire. Lasers flew all around her.
Sgt Kyk Avonman
"NOT ONE STEP FURTHER, MEN!" He stood up and blasted with his shotgun at everything in front of him, emptying his shells. The defensive line in the main rotunda was in ruins but there was no way he was going to fall back. "HOLD POSITIONS, PUSH THEM BACK!"
Ascentionist Legate Lis Growler
She's made her way up to the second floor. She quickly spun open the cylinder of her snubnosed 5 shooter and put in the speedloader, closing the cylinder as she peeked around the corner. There was one of the cops, a Sergeant, reloading a shotgun down below her. She peeked out and fired a round.
-
IRW Venator Stellarum
Computer Bridge Record
Avon, Avonite Enclave
"Subcommander! Weapons have commenced firing on Avonite anti-air batteries and we are proceeding to the Commander's position. Forward quantum torpedoes are locked and loaded, awaiting your command to fire at the hostiles on the ground. Aft quantums have already commenced firing on Avonite anti-air batteries. We are now 300 metres from the surface of Avon. We should be much harder to hit now. Repair crews standing by on systems hit by enemy batteries. Repairs are estimated to take four hours. Moderate damage to energy shielding and forward deflector array, sir." a Centurion bellowed from the weapons console.
Subcommander Semal replied immediately, "Intensify aft shields and forward disruptor fire! Launch drone fighters and prepare gunships for the creation of a defensive perimeter—"
Lieutenant Grandek jumed in: "Sir incoming transmission from Romulus! High Command has dispatched Admiral Pistrix from New Witchmond and his fleet. They should arrive in a day. Additionally, the Tal Shiar has requisitioned four ICC Legium-class cruisers in northern New Witchmond, which are to join Admiral Pistrix's fleet en route."
Damn! Semal thought. How are we supposed to last that long against half a planet!? "Prepare indiscriminate firing sequences and begin routing all weapons controls through the central computer. All weapons batteries shall continue firing at their discretion."
AvCom
Industries Spirit, Avon
Avonite Enclave
Commander Gela drew her repeating disruptor. Well, now is as good a time as any, I suppose, she thought to herself. "Squads 2 and 3 intensify suppressing fire! I'm going to contact the shuttle!"
She pressed her communications band, "Centurion move the shuttle behind Darkcloak's lines on the surface, decloak, and begin firing main disruptors. That should help them out a bit. Also, deploy Squad 1 while you're at it. We can't let these lines crumble!"
The response crackled in, "It shall be done, m'Lady."
,
She watched as below the green Dominia-class shuttle decloaked behind the defending Avonites and began blasting away with its forward disruptors. Against a capital ship, they weren't much, but against infantry, they more than suffice, she chucked to herself as she continued blasting away at the hostile Avonites from the roof.
Admiral Pistrix's Fleet
IRW D'Venorex Elysia
Southern United Kervian Chain Space
En Route to Avonite Enclave
"Open a channel to all vessels in the fleet!" Admiral Pistrix barked, as the vessels entered hyperspace, "This is Rear Admiral Pistrix on D'Venorex Elysia! All crews will continue damage control drills and weapons simulations until this fleet is within two hours of its destination! We will be prepared for anything!! Pistrix out."
The clearly discontented Admiral turned to his communications officer, "Have those worthless ICC ships made contact yet!? I can't believe we're being forced to work in conjunction with that damn mechanised private army!
-
Captain Gærn
Satyron IV
Sector (-25, 8 )
Gærn was halfway back to her small force when her tactical officer contacted her.
"Target vessel has lifted off and is proceeding towards the primitives."
"Set target status to hostile and commence orbital bombardment," she ordered. "Status of our Drekrekkr?"
"Eight Valkyries are loaded with Berserkers, and the remaining four have Einherjar with the requested twenty mil's."
"Drop them at the primitives settlement and have the Einherjar hunker down. Have five Valkyries strafe the enemy vessel after drop off and the rest return for more reinforcements."
"Yes, Ma'am."
"ETA on that frigate?"
"Ten minutes."
"We may not have ten minutes... Just keep that bombardment going. Cripple their weapons and engines."
"Aye, Ma'am."
She then connected to the Valkyrie pilots on the ground. "Take off and strafe the enemy vessel. Delay them as much as possible."
"Yes, Ma'am," was their reply.
The Captain and her two soldiers kept running to the ground forces already on the surface, joined by her Sækjar, and had them all fall back to the Primitives.
AFS Volklang
In orbit over Satyron IV
"Helm, roll 90 degrees starboard."
The helmsman worked his controls with ease, and the ship rolled to have the starboard side face the planet. The tactical officer then worked his controls, and the starboard railguns sprang to life, positioning and humming with energy. Tactical then initiated staggered firing, and shells began raining down towards the Exodite vessel.
-
AvCom, Industries Spirit, Avon, Avonite Enclave
Sgt Kyk Avonman
Ughhhh...ughhhhh....I cant...... ahhhh.....his breath was labored and painful. He could taste blood in his mouth. He could feel the blood seeping out of his chest. His men had fallen back to the secondary defensive line but the enemy was already beginning to break. They were on the verge of routing. At least....at least........
Councilor Kir Darkcloak
She connected the secondary power source. Damn thing had to work now, right? The console beeped, diagnostics lights went off, indicating systems functional. Kir laughed and held up her hand, shouting "Yes!" just as she caught a round to the back. She stumbled and fell off the tower.
AES Murphy, in orbit around Avon
Admiral Fir Hanover
His hands where clenched. He was angry. Very angry. Jil would pay. "Forget the bombardment. Everything we have. Go to Minmus. Destroy her." He considered his next move. "Also, dispatch the Stamper and Western Catolina to engage the Romulan ship. It thinks it can hide below Anti air range? Lets show them the full might of a Pendelton bombardment...."
Avonite Reclamation Station 9, in orbit around Avon
Captain Hik Fallenjager
It was an Avonite but somehow.... not. All pigment was gone. There were black....fissures on his face. His eyes had become jet black. His clothes were torn and battered, as if he'd been wearing them for years and never changed. And his whole form seemed to be......covered in.....shadows. It was like Hik was looking at him through a murky veil. He turned to his comms Ensign. "Get a message to the Santuary of Spode and AvCom. Tell them we need reinforcements. And that.... just...tell them about that!" He pointed toward the viewscreen. A booming voice was transmitted over the speakers. It sounded like several voices merged together at different pitches. "Avonites....of the Avonite Enclave.....yessss.....yesssssss........."
-
The Wanderer-class dropship Lockhead, Satryon IV,
Sector (-25, 8 )
The targeting alarms screamed and flashed as the Aesir closed in. As the crew suited up in spacesuits for combat, the sound of bullets strafing the ship reverberated in the cabin. The signals Ensign watched as his screen began to fill with red enemy icons.
"Three enemy bogeys sighted!"
"All weapons systems, engage! Officer Den, take over the laser weapons!"
"Aye sir!" The high-caliber rotary coilgun turrets and the laser weapons began to fire, sending streams of deadly light at the Valkyries, and causing one of the painted ships to fall out of the sky and the other to start belching black smoke and retreat. The targeting computer attempted to gain a lock onto the enemy ships as they approached.
Suddenly, the Lockhead jolted nose-up and gained altitude rapidly, causing the Major Weapons Officer to lose his radar lock.
"What the hell are you doing?"
Pilot Eja was pulling back hard on the joysticks. "Trying to save all of your lives, that's what! Keb was right! This mission has gone to hell, and we need to get out of here before we all die!"
Before the Lieutenant could react to this insubordination, the Communications Ensign started shouting a message into his transmitter, causing even more chaos in the cabin.
"This is the Exodite scout ship Lockhead! Disengage, I repeat, disengage!" Another burst of gunfire rattled through the ship. The electricity flickered as a Fleet Engineer repaired some damaged wiring. The Ensign continued.
"Disengage! We do not want to fight you! Don't you see what you are doing? You're going to start a war over these useless primitives! Think about your own species!"
"What are you doing Ensign!? You can't negotiate with them-"
Suddenly, the radar screeched again. "ORBITAL PROJECTILES INCOMING!"
"Shit!"
The ship took evasive maneuvers as the white-hot bolts rained down from the sky...
A horrible "crack" echoed through the morning sky as one of the bolts hit the atmosphere. The shockwave came in from behind and under them, severely damaging their engines. Then another hit nearby, crushing the left wing and tossing the ship away. Jets of fast green fire poured from the wounds as the Lockhead began to lose speed and stall in the air. The ship slowly shifted backwards and began falling rapidly. Only a kilometer before they hit the ground, however, a burst of energy came from the ramjet engines and the ship managed to level itself as the descent continued. Like a slow-moving meteorite, the ship came down in a ball of fire and crashed close to the shore of a nearby lake, sending up a large cloud of superheated steam as it settled on the sands.
-
Diplomatic Convoy to Romulans
Near Romulan Border
"Incoming transmission!" shouted the comms officer.
Donna listened with great intent. She couldn't believe that this would be her chance to propel her career. "Keep my nerve... keep my nerve..." she slowly muttered to herself. She continued listening to Commander Tovanus, catching the invitation to their vessel.
They're inviting us aboard their vessel? Donna thought as she let out a sigh. She didn't think that her conference room was ready and let out a sigh, relieved that it wouldn't have to be. She called out, "Open transmission!"
"We humbly accept your invitation to go aboard your vessel. I look forward to seeing you soon!" She turned her head towards the comms officer and nodded, signaling to end the transmission.
"Prepare the ceremonial guard and a small shuttle." Things are getting interesting... she thought
Wallace White - Diplomat to Aesir
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
"Not to worry, not to worry!" said Wallace. "Perhaps we could start a flow of information and knowledge between our two worlds. That would be beneficial to both of us. Oh, and those cookies sound nice. I'm sure everyone here has a sweet tooth!" He paused for a second, briefly glancing up at the chair. "Ah... those... I guess their brittleness did work out in your favor, but probably not in mine... Anyway, the government focuses its budget... elsewhere, not on furniture. I tried to get the chairs upgraded a couple years back and they came up with these sad excuses for chairs. Hopefully the introduction of your chairs will be enough change their minds."
-
Ambassador Herjall
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
"A flow of information would definitely benefit the both of us. As for the cookies, we already have an export set up for Rationalist Science and would be glad to set up an export for Lernaea.
"As for the furniture, it is doubtful that Aesir chairs would make them think about acquiring better chairs. And even Aesir furniture can be broken with the strength of my armor, though not nearly as easily.
"Perhaps we should begin discussion on a more permanent residency for myself on your world. I have the resources and workforce aboard my frigate to begin construction of an environmentally friendly facility, but I currently have no land to place it on."
Captain Gærn
Surface of Satyron IV
Sector (-25, 8 )
She felt the shockwaves from the orbital rounds and saw the enemy vessel drop from the sky at a safe distance. She had heard their transmission, but she did not believe it to be genuine. The enemy commander was too set in his ways.
"I'm thinking about all species," she said to herself. She then turned to her Sækjar. "Survey the crash. Check for survivors."
"Yes, Ma'am." And the Sækjar were gone.
"Everyone else is on me."
The two Valkyries who survived the attack on the enemy vessel returned and landed, one having difficulty with black smoke erupting from its port engine. The pilot of the damaged Valkyrie came out to inspect the damage and begin repairs.
Twelve lights could then be seen in the sky as more Valkyries were on their way carrying reinforcements. The new dropships were redirected to the Captain's location and gently landed, unloaded their troops, and took off to return to the AFS Volklang.
"We are about to stage an assault on the enemy position," the Captain stated on her internal comm. "The enemy vessel has crash landed beside a lake. Einherjar will be positioned across the lake from the enemy and lay down heavy fire on anything that comes out carrying anything that so much as resembles a weapon. Berserkers will make their way around the lake while the rest of us approach through the lake. Any questions?" Silence. "Then let's move!"
The different groups moved to their designated locations with the Einherjar arriving at theirs first. They leaned forward to form the pike nose and held their autorails firmly. Berserkers charged around the lake, jetpacks glowing as they were readied for use. The Captain and her tactical Drekrekkr waded into the water and soon disappeared underneath the surface.
AFS Volklang
In orbit over Satyron IV
The tactical officer stopped firing as soon as he saw the enemy vessel take severe damage.
"Friendly frigate is arriving," reported comm.
The frigate dropped out of hyperspace within visual range and quickly entered orbit beside the destroyer. Two Berarr dropped from the frigate and began their descent towards the planet.
"Comm, give them the coordinates for the enemy vessel."
Coordinates were sent, and the Berarr were redirected to the crash site.
-
AES Redoubt, In orbit around Drekhimir
Captain Kli Waverider
"Avonite Enclave Ship Redoubt to Aesir homeworld, come in Aesir homeworld."
Avonite Reclamation Station 9, in orbit around Avon
Captain Hik Fallenjager
Hik just stared for a good minute. No one spoke. No one moved. No one even breathed. Finally, in a strained whisper, Hik spoke"What....what are you?" The...thing on the view screen spoke, again in that unnerving voice. "We....we.....are your destiny.....yesssss....." Hik swallowed and whispered "Who are you?" Again the figure replied "Before we enlightened this form he was known as Admiral Lajardi Voidwatcher. But now...he is a vessel for the First. Yesssss...." He lifted his arms in a grand gesture "We are Spode's First, the original forgiven. And we....we are here to enlighten the Avonites. Yesssss.....yesssss......."
-
The wreck of the Wanderer-class dropship Lockhead, surface of Satryon IV,
Sector (-25, 8 )
When Lieutenant Ledif came to, the steam was just beginning to clear. Slowly, he managed to cut himself out of his seat using his decorated Caishing sword. Around him, he saw shifting figures doing the same dazed stumbling about. Pilot Eja was confusedly making unnecessary repairs to her shrapnel-damaged pressure suit, until one of the Second Lieutenants reminded her that the atmosphere was okay. He saw an injured Soldier helped the old Occultist walk out of a flaming wreck. The crash, apparently, was tame compared to how most spaceship crashes end. Despite that, casualties were high: most of the Soldiers, who were preparing for a landing instead of a crash, were killed.
Suddenly, the Lieutenant saw something running and stumble and fall over the tossed corpse of a Soldier. Drawing his phaser, he walked closer to the figure and saw that it was not a Damli: it was that blue-skinned primitive they had caught earlier. Ledif fired a low level stun shot, causing the primitive to cry out in pain and fall to the ground. Suddenly, he realized something: if the blue-skin was free, the Cells must have been compromised. And if the Cells were compromised...
"LIEUTENANT, LOOK OUT!"
A Carbine bolt whizzed over Ledif's head, impacting a piece of the Lockhead's hull and shooting out a shower of white sparks. Ledif took cover, set his phaser to "KILL" and waited for the enemies to reveal themselves. From the smoke and steam, a sight emerged. A bloodied and bruised Major Jiden appeared holding a Carbine, all but one of his arms broken unnaturally backwards. A large shadow followed him.
"I'm... I'm... I'm sorry, Lieutenant... That bastard made a run for the Armory, while us Soldiers were still recovering... I tried to stop him, but... he made me take the shot, Lieutenant, he was... he was gonna kill me!"
Jiden was thrown down before the feet of the shadow, causing him to groan in pain. Smoke and steam blew by, and a Damli wearing a War Mantle and holding two Carbines was revealed. The few soldiers who were in the cabin leveled their guns at him, causing the War Mantle user to chuckle.
"Ensign Keb Diden," Ledif said quietly, seeing just how useless his phaser would be here. "Disarm yourself immediately. We... We can talk about this."
The War Mantle's folds shifted and shimmered. Keb was a part of the machine now. "I WILL DO NO SUCH THING, LIEUTENANT SIH LEDIF," came the warbling, gravelly response. "BECAUSE OF YOUR IGNORANCE AND MISPLACED PRIDE, YOUR SHIP HAS BEEN LOST, DOZENS OF DAMLI ARE DEAD, AND A TOTAL WAR WITH A EQUAL SPECIES IS IMMINENT."
Seeing how the crew now stared at him with resentment, Ledif paused, then dropped his weapons and opened his arms in an embrace. "I am aware. Do to me as you wish: death will be upon us soon regardless."
"NOT AT ALL, LIEUTENANT." The thing that was Keb approached the surrendered Ledif, drawing a energy-field enhanced Caishing. "THE LIZARDS, HOWEVER, WILL BE READY FOR YOU."
"Wait, what? No! NO!"
The Lieutenant's screams echoed over the forest.
In the direction of the Aesir, a wounded Damli appeared. Wearing the officer's uniform and the pressure helmet of the Lieutenant they had spoken with earlier, he was easily identifiable as that Lieutenant Sih Ledif. However, he was maimed almost beyond recognition: his white uniform was stained with ash and dark red blood. His two underarms were completely missing, sheared off by a sharp blade and turned into bloody, cauterized, poorly-bandaged stumps. He fell to his knees in front of the Aesir and collapsed.
"Please... kill... me..."
-
Bridge Communications Records
IRW Venator Stellarum
Avon, Avonite Enclave
"Subcommander! The Hostile Avonite Fleet has moved to engage another on the far side of their moon. Two cruisers, however, have disengaged from the rest of the fleet and are attempting to give fight. Shall we give or evade, sir?" a Centurion L'Cerak questioned from the weapons console.
Suddenly, the communications channel lit up, "Gela here EMERGENCY BEAM-OUT FOR COUNCILLOR DARKCLOAK PRIORITY 1!!" the panel roared.
Semal turned to his tactical readout immediately. "Transporter room lock on and beam Darkcloak directly to the infirmary immediately! She must have been hurt while attending to the antenna! Hold for my mark to beam out the rest of the landing party, as well!"
Infirmary
Doctor Rolex had the Infirmary in a frenzy, "Get two hyposprays over here. Prepare trauma kit and ready surgery for near-immediate operation! Prepare 4 CCs metacotizene!"
The various medics and nurses on the ship were frantically moving around as Kir Darkcloak materialised in the Infirmary...
AvCom
Industries Spirit, Avon
Avonite Enclave
Commander Gela watched as Kir plummeted toward the ground. She had caught what was going to happen while she was about to stumble, and had given the Stellarum as much time as she possibly could to catch the Avonite...
Communications Records
IRW Pevatha
Romulan Border Zone
"All Shuttles, you are cleared to depart from the Hangars on the authority of Major Ledaren."
"Commander Tovanus! The Lernaeans are dispatching a small shuttle to the Pevtha."
"Excellent, Centurion Borark! Prepare the shuttle bay for foreign arrivals and ensure that the Ceremonial Guard is in tip-top shape! Hopefully the Officer's Dining Hall will meet with their approval... have the chef produce a truly Romulan meal. Include Romulan Ale, of course!!" He chuckled. We'll figure out these aliens quite quickly! he thought to himself.
-
Captain Gærn
Satyron IV
Sector (-25, 8 )
The Captain and her Drekrekkr stood just beneath the surface, waiting for the all clear from the Sækjar. She soon got it, and her and her soldiers surfaced. Their heads broke the surface first followed by the rest of their bodies as they slowly moved up and out of the lake towards the crashed ship, water rolling off their armor and onto the mud beneath them.
As she drew near, a hatch opened up. The Drekrekkr all leveled their guns at the opening and prepared to fire, but Gærn just stood and watched. A single Damli exited the ship, wearing the uniform of the enemy commander but cut and mauled with two limbs missing, and slowly made his way to the Captain. He fell before her, his whole body shaking like a leaf.
"Please... kill... me..." the thing said.
The Captain gently placed a clawed hand on the enemy commander's back. "Stay down," was all she said to him before removing her hand and moving up with the rest of her team to the opening.
The two Berarr making their descent landed beside the Einherjar. Their ramps dropped to the ground to reveal two Grey Wolf tanks. The tanks promptly rolled out and faced the enemy ship, their turrets trained on the weapon systems which looked operational. Plasma Anti Tank Fin Stabilized (PAT-FS) shells were loaded and the railguns charged.
The Berserkers made a jump across the last part of the lake and landed by the ship. Some performed another jump to get over and around it, surrounding the ship and cutting off escape.
"Move in!" the Captain ordered, and she led her 39 Drekrekkr into the ship to secure or kill the remaining Damli.
-
AvCom, Industries Spirit, Avon
Councilor Kir Darkcloak
Something was happening to her. She felt like she was being ripped apart, molecule by molecule. She was approaching the ground pretty quickly. She hit the roof with a slam, landing on her side. Seconds later she was teleported to the Romulan battlecruiser. She'd lost consciousness before that.
Councilor Irk Flowchaser
The comms array was operational again! Reports were flooding in, requests for orders, sit reps, battle data, everything military on Avon went through AvCom. SHACom in particular was very interested in sending reinforcements to AvCom. Irk wasted no time in calling them in. One report in particular puzzled him. A Romulan battlecruiser was under fire from a ground battery and was being chased by 2 Pendletons. Damn, he had to inform Gela though he was sure she already knew. He got up just as a report from the Admiral Innsmouth came in, along with an emergency sit rep from Avonite Reclamation Station 9....
-
The wreck of the Wanderer-class dropship Lockhead, surface of Satryon IV,
Sector (-25, 8 )
A Scout gave the first battle cry. "ENEMIES INCOMING!"
The surviving Soldiers clicked their Carbines and aimed towards the Aesir forces. The Fleet crew drew their phasers and and set them to "KILL". The Occultist fell to her knees in the water, weeping for her species. Keb, however, did something quite different.
"I have a plan," he said to the surviving Second Lieutenant. "If they attack me, open fire and retreat into the forest."
"I..." He paused. "Alright, Keb. Unless you want to suffer a worse fate than the Lieutenant for treason, you better succeed."
Keeping the black folds of his War Mantle ready, he dropped the two Carbines he was holding into the water. He pulled his grenade holster off and threw them deep into the lake. Finally, Keb found the primitive (who had been too frightened by the scene he just witnessed to escape) and gestured with his sword, leading the blue humanoid in front of him as he approached the Aesir, slowly and practically unarmed
When he was but five meters away, Keb shoved the blue primitive on the floor of the beach towards the Aesir and briefly stood above him. Keb then took his sword and drove the blade deep in the sand. Slowly and calmly, he sat down with both legs crossed in front of the Aesir and breathed.
"I am here to represent the Exodite Dominion. I trust you want to see us in chains or dead and gone. Am I wrong?"
-
Drekiheimr
Sector (-23, 14)
"We read you, Redoubt. Is there something we can help you with?"
Captain Gærn
Satyron IV
Sector (-25, 8 )
Upon arriving at this...scene, the Captain halted her soldiers with a few timed clicks. She slowly approached until she was a meter away then sat as well.
"For attempting to commit this crime against the native population of this planet, I would see that you all be captured and held prisoner. But unlike your previous commander, you wish to speak. So speak."
-
AES Redoubt, in orbit around Drekiheimr
Captain Kli Waverider
"Roger, Aesir homeworld, we'd like to meet your new Jarl if that's possible. Is there any way we could get in touch with her?"
AvCom, Industries Spirit, Avon
Councilor Irk Flowchaser
Irk opened the door to the roof just in time to see the Ascencionists retreat. They'd been beaten back! He caught sight of the Romulans. He came running up "Hey there! They've been beaten back and our comms are back up! Reinforcements should be here in no time!" He looked around. "Where's Kir?"
Avonite Reclamation Station 9, in orbit around Avon
Captain Hik Fallenjager
This..... this was completely screwed up? Spode's First? What the hell was going on? "What the hell are you talking about? What are you?" He yelled at the screen. The figure seemed incensed and leaned closer. "We are the original forgiven. We where the servants until he turned on us....yesssss....yesssss...he locked us away after trying so hard to enlighten us....yesssss....yesss... he failed and abandoned us for centuries..... until....more of our kind came....we took them, slowly, one by one, for centuries more....yesssss........ and now...with these ships, we rebuilt our escape...and can finally finish his work... enlighten all Avonites...yesssss.....yesssssss"
-
Ensign Keb Diden
Surface of Satryon IV
Sector (-25, 8 )
The Ensign folded his upperarms. His left underarm absentmindedly drew circular patterns in the sand, while his right underarm tapped the ground thrice (a signal of polite disagreement in Exodite culture).
"What crime do you speak of? The only thing even slightly close to a crime that the Damli have done here was kidnapping this blue one. If that is what you want, you can have him back. He is of no use to us now." He gestured towards the primitive, who was kneeling in the sand. "Even if this primitive is sentient like us, I am afraid that we are what we are, Great Lizard. It is our nature to conquer lesser species. Birds fly, grass grows, and the Exodite Dominion expands. Unless this planet is your territory, and these primitives your slaves, I fail to... see why you are acting the way you are." He waited patiently for a response.
-
Captain Gærn
Satyron IV
Sector (-25, 8 )
"It is in your nature to fight. If you are not fighting amongst yourselves, you are fighting someone else. And up to this point, you have not seen anything except primitive species on your journeys. So you form this philosophy that it is your right to conquer and enslave anyone you meet.
"The problem with this encounter is that you met a greater force. One you had only been able to imagine until now. You met resistance on a level you had never seen before, and you fell to it. Your ignorance and lack of experience has led you to sitting here and talking with me.
"Your vision is too limited and displays how little your species has seen. The Damli have been spaceborne for a thousand years at most. We Aesir have been spaceborne for over a million years. We have seen things you can't even imagine, waged wars beyond your comprehension.
"We brought you down so quickly from the experience of those times. And here you sit because, I think, you recognize that we could massacre your people if you put up resistance. Neither of us want to see them dead, so let us discuss the terms of your surrender."
-
Ensign Keb Diden
Surface of Satryon IV
Sector (-25, 8 )
Keb didn't move, but his voice signaled distress. "We are not surrendering to you. Not yet. I still fail to see what you are doing defending these people." Involuntarily, he remembered the Occultist's words, yet he continued on with only a moment's hesitation. "If you kill us or enslave us, I can assure you that there will be consequences. Even if what you say about your power is true, you can be killed. My comrades told me that the Lockhead shot down one of your dropships and severely damaged another. Defeating the entire Damli species, while possible, will not be easy for you. Millions, billions, maybe even trillions of your own will die. You are willing to risk this because of one planet? I do not understand."
-
Avonite Reclamation Station 9, in orbit around Avon
Captain Hik Fallenjager
"You're Spode's First?" Hik spoke with a mixture of awe and disbelief. The figure nodded slowly. "Yessssss....Yessssss......... and we've come.....to enlighten you.....to finish Spode's work..... to enlighten all Avonites.....join us..... and you will become a servant of Spode.....join us......yessssss.....yesssssss." Hik was confused...but...they were Spode's First. They knew his will. And who was he to doubt Spode's will? He looked around at his bridge crew. They all nodded. "OK. We will join you."
-
Drekiheimr
Sector (-23, 13)
"She still resides in the main fleet in sector negative sixteen, fourteen. You may meet with her there if you wish."
Captain Gærn
Satyron IV
Sector (-25, 8 )
"You are thinking in terms too small. Your thoughts are stuck here on this planet and in the present. You need to expand your thoughts beyond what is right in front of you. You must learn to see beyond this before you even have a hope of understanding my actions.
"And you will surrender. You will all perish if you continue to resist. Your handful of crew do not stand any chance against my Drekrekkr and two tanks. This is the only way you can live and make it back to your people."
-
Ensign Keb Diden
Surface of Satryon IV
Sector (-25, 8 )
"I... I understand." Keb bowed his head. "I understood this whole time, yet it was a truth that I rather would have ignored, even in the face of death."
Slowly, he stood up. Clear water lapped at the sands and grass rustled as a breeze rolled by. "You understand that this will be a difficult thing to relay to my comrades. I will do my best, however. Do your people know the concept of... honor? Fairness and just dealings in defeat to a surrendered enemy?"
-
Captain Gærn
Satyron IV
Sector (-25, 8 )
She stood as well, the soft glow of the red optics in her helmet, the "eyes", unwavering.
"The Aesir society was founded on a code of honor. We were nothing but warring tribes before the Code was envisioned. Much like how the Damli were composed of warring factions over a thousand years ago.
"But yes, you and your crew will be treated well. If you wish, we may transport you back to your people. We will need coordinates for the jump if you or another can provide them."
-
Ensign Keb Diden
Surface of Satryon IV
Sector (-25, 8 )
He paused. "Perhaps the best thing would be for you to leave the planet and wait." Keb drew circles in the sand in front of the Aesir, displaying a crude orbital map of the planet they were on.
"In about seven sols, a rescue force will be dispatched to bring us back to the Fleet. These rescue armadas are twenty, thirty, maybe even fifty ships strong. They will not be happy when they see you, you should hide behind one of this planet's natural satellites. If they find you, they will attack you, and even if against all odds you managed to successfully fight back their numbers are such that they will be able to alert the Fleet to your presence, and they will destroy you. Do do not think of double-crossing us."
Keb tilted his head to the side. "If you can take my word that we will not continue to attack the primitives for the time being, would this arrangement please you?"
-
Captain Gærn
Satyron IV
Sector (-25, 8 )
"Any arrangement which leaves these primitives in harm's way does not please me." She paused. "However, we have insufficient forces in the area to counter your rescue force. This civilization, like many others, will fall.
"But I will report this to my superiors. They should find this news disturbing and send greater forces this way. Perhaps we will be able to save at least some people. But as your people expand closer and closer to the Aesir Empire, we will resist more and more. Unless your people back down, war will be inevitable."
Gærn turned back to her soldiers and away from Keb, careful not to swing her tail at him.
"We will go, but we will not hide our ships. We will instead prepare to jump. Once your fleet has arrived and seen us, we will leave them a message before jumping away. Do you disagree with this course of action?"
-
Ensign Keb Diden
Surface of Satryon IV
Sector (-25, 8 )
"If you are confident that you could escape before the armada could have time to respond violently, then I would have no problem with this." Keb stood up. The War Mantle shimmered. "I trust in the Admiralty to lead the Damli to prosperity. I... I hope this precludes your destruction. I can not say how this will end, and I have already overstepped my bounds of command in talking to you like this." He looked at the dying Lieutenant on the ground. "When you first speak with the Admirals, remember my words and my fears."
-
Oribiting Thandio 2
Thandio System
Sector (5, -6)
Nielsen's face fell as she saw the Romulan ships jump precisely onto the positions of their ships and begin firing. Of course, she thought. The ubiquity of good warp drives and cloaks in the Romulan navy made that the obvious strategy.
Fortunately for the Wintreans, the damage was already done by then. Even a single Wintrean ship could carry out the destruction of all assets on a planet, given enough time. Nielsen did not have a ship; she had a fleet. Those precious few seconds it took for the Romulans to respond were enough to obliterate the most important factories and other facilities from the face of the planet.
Nielsen grinned in satisfaction as the Romulan ships began hopelessly sacrificing themselves, in an attempt to protect the planet below. Energy weapons were directed to either hit other, unprotected targets or attack the ships themselves, while projectile weapons simply went around them. Of course, the task was not easy, as the rest of the Romulans continued a relentless attack on the outnumbered Wintrean fleet. As damaged ships fell to the planet below, the Wintreans reversed their usual policy of avoiding population centers and instead aimed for maximum damage upon the inevitable impact.
As the battle raged on, Nielsen knew that they could not afford to completely destroy the planet. The Romulan fleets had already destroyed a significant portion of her fleet, and there was still the possibility of them firing another superweapon. The Romulans would be able to rebuild from the carnage; the question was whether it would be worth the cost. Once she assessed that enough damage had come to the planet below, Nielsen ordered the surviving ships to retreat. Warp-capable ships escaped beyond both natural and artificial gravity wells, then made hyperspace jumps to obscure interstellar space. The rest were largely consigned to their death, with some making suicidal attacks and others making mostly unsuccessful attempts to escape the interdiction field sublight.
Nielsen's ship exited hyperspace in the middle of nowhere, alone. The other surviving ships had jumped elsewhere. Slowly, they began limping north, away from the battlefront.
Frosthold Castle
Frostlake City
Sector (-3, 3)
Monarch Wintermoot and his cabinet sat in the specialized conference room, receiving updates from the military engagements against the Romulans and Acarians. The battles in Dara, Varno, and Thandio raged on, while Trilia had surrendered without a fight. They had no confirmation that the small base on Trilia had been destroyed, but the crew there knew their job. The Romulans were now broadcasting propaganda footage of their victory on Trilia. Wasn't really that big of a defeat, but the Romulans certainly are portraying it as such, the Monarch mused.
An aide entered the room, interrupting them. "Sirs, an Avonite from the diplomatic ship who identified himself as 'Ecstatic Sul Gravemind' is demanding a meeting with the Monarch," he said. "Claims to know something about the Romulans and that he can help in the war."
"Whatever his advice is, he can wait," replied the Monarch. "In any case, the Avonite ambassador Jensen already met is on his way to the surface." The aide quickly relayed the response back to the guard outside the castle.
Suddenly, a message flashed, alerting the cabinet of a new update:
Romulan superweapon destroyed all life on planet Thandio. Partial implementation of Scorched Earth retreat complete. Very heavy casualties, survivors will rendezvous back at base.
-Nielsen
Silence filled the room as they comprehended the meaning of the words. Finally, the Monarch spoke.
"Any news from the Acarian fronts?"
"None, other than the declaration of war," the Minister of Defence replied.
Wintermoot frowned. Usually, ambassadors would be exchanged through a neutral party. But Acaria did not have any ambassadors in Wintreath, meaning that Bergli was not safe... The last they'd heard from him was a progress report before the declaration of war.
"Jensen, do you have the messages prepared for our foreign representatives?" the Monarch continued.
"Yes," the Foreign Minister responded. "I have already sent it."
Outside the Castle
"Mr. Sul Gravemind, you seem to be implying that you are the representative of a single person, not your government. Is this accurate?" Without waiting for a response, the guard continued, "In any case, I must once again stress that the Monarch is currently unavailable. Furthermore, I do believe that Admiral Innsmouth is currently making his way down to the planet, and unlike you, he has gone through the proper protocols."
Science Institute at Frostlake
The message from Frosthold Castle reached the Science embassy.
Trilia Scientific Research Station
Sector (5, -6)
The Romulans herded Dr. Lajunen and the other scientists into the headquarters building. Sounds of gunfire could be heard in the distance.
What are they firing at? thought Lajunen. The icebergs? The thought of Romulan soldiers seriously invading this desolate wasteland amused her.
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy
Protheus, Allied States of Lernaea
Sector (-18, 1)
The diplomatic mission soon arrived at the Lernaean capital. They broadcast a message asking for further instructions.
As they did so, a message arrived from Frosthold, informing them of the attacks by the Acarians and Romulans. Øye appended to their message, asking for a meeting at the Lernaeans' earliest convenience.
Diplomatic Convoy to Science
Vivaldi, Democratic Empire of Rationalist Science
Sector (-12, 24)
After a considerable time of travelling, the diplomatic mission reached Science's capital. They opened communications with the local authorities asking for further directions.
Wintrean Diplomatic Mission to the Aesir Empire
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
Lundgren took a shaky breath, and then responded, "We were devastated by the past war, as you know, but we have been rebuilding. Until recently, our government has been pursuing a rather isolationist policy. Under the leadership of our current Monarch, though, a more reform-minded faction is learning from our past mistakes and is seeking out to build ties with our fellow nations, whether they be former friends, enemies, or newcomers.
"Unfortunately," she continued, "there is also a considerably large portion of our populace and government that wants to reestablish the imperialistic policies of our past."
As they reached the Wintrean ship, Lundgren's comlink suddenly beeped, notifying her of a message from Frosthold. As she read it, her face paled.
"The Acarians and Romulans, under the guise of peaceful cooperation, have attacked us and are razing our planets," she said.
-
Frosthold Castle
Frostlake City
Sector (-3, 3)
Ecstatic Sul Gravemind
"Ecstatic, not Mr, Sul Gravemind." He tilted his head. "A shame. No, I do not represent a single person. I represent the Spode Commonwealth. We wished to have a meeting of the minds. The Romulans are a mighty foe, for sure, but not invincible. Oh well. I suppose Innsmouth is going to meet your Monarch? Very well. If you would be so kind as to pass this message to your Monarch."
He leaned in close and whispered.
"The plans of Mice and Men are fickle things but the will of Gods are eternal. And the Gods are coming back."
Admiral Ark Innsmouth
The message from Irk Flowchaser was quite clear. He knew what he had to say to the Monarch. He closed his eyes to compose himself. This was going to be difficult. He exited the shuttle and approached the guard. "Hello, Admiral Ark Innsouth here. I would like to meet the Monarch please."
Sector negative sixteen, fourteen, AES Redoubt
Captain Kli Waverider
The Redoubt jumped out of hyperspace near the Aesir fleet. A hail was sent out. "AES Redoubt to AFS Jörmungandr, come in"
Somewhere inside Avonite space and time
? ? ? ? ? ?
One by one, planets fell to Spode's First. The inhabitants where enlightened. They spoke as one. Heard as one. Saw as one. Now, his will would finally be seen. He'd tried to help them. Tried to make them perfect. But these beings....they were imperfect. They could not be perfected. They could not lose their old forms. So they were to be like this, forever.....
They would prove him wrong.
-
Drekiheimr
Sector (-23, 13)
A message was sent to the Science vessel:
"Science vessel, meeting with the new Jarl may be beneficial to expediting your embassy request. She remains aboard the AFS Jörmungandr at the same spatial coordinates."
Jarl Brunnhilde
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
"These imperialists will find the Aesir completely unwilling to be within the scope of the Wintrean domain again. However, I can promise talks between our two nations. Peace and trade can be worked out."
When she heard the news about the attacks, she hissed and her tail swished back and forth.
"Romulans... They're the scorpions of the galaxy. Turn your back and they'll sting it, injecting their deadly venom. Such a dishonorable people... If you wish for reinforcements, I can put this armada to use. It was originally assembled to be an invasion force, but it can be reassigned to defending your nation against these absurd attacks."
Bridge
The comms officer snapped to attention as his console showed the Avonites attempting contact. He opened a channel with the Avonite vessel.
"This is the AFS Jörmungandr. State your reason for contacting us."
Captain Gærn
Satyron IV
Sector (-25, 8 )
"Your words shall be noted in my report. If one of my people are able to talk to your Admirals, my experiences here will be kept in mind."
She walked back to her troops before turning back to face Keb once more.
"Shall we leave your wounded member here with you or take him with us?" she asked as she gestured to the maimed lieutenant.
-
Diplomatic Convoy to Romulans
Near Romulan Border
Donna piloted the craft towards towards the Pevtha's hanger. Her heart was still beating out of her chest. I can finally meet some aliens! she thought. As her shuttle touched down inside the Romulan's hanger, she signaled her ceremonial guard to stand in place as her doors opened and she took her first steps on foreign territory.
Wallace White - Diplomat to Aesir
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
"The flow of goods sounds good! Sorry to hear about the chairs though, I guess I'll just have to make do. Also, I'll have command find some suitable locations for you to choose from. Just give me a sec," replied White.
Wallace pulled out a tablet and punched in the request, and waited. A couple moments later, the tabled chirped. He looked down and said, "Ah, here are your choices. There's this nice piece of real estate next to Science's embassy, and if you want a more rural area, there is a place a couple clicks from here. Take a look!" He handed over the tablet to Herjall and awaited a response.
Diplomatic Convoy to Wintreans
Sector (-3, 3)
A convoy sent from Protheus arrived at the coordinates given to them by the Wintreans and broadcast a signal awaiting further instructions.
ISA Headquarters
Undisclosed Location on Protheus
Sector (-18,1)
Garriot received a transmission from the Wintreans looking for a meeting. He transmitted coordinates to the Wintreans as to where to land and meet.
-
Ensign Keb Diden
Surface of Satryon IV
Sector (-25, 8 )
Ensign Keb looked down at Lieutenant Ledif for a long while. "We will take him. You would not be able to even cremate him properly if he died, let alone save his life." He picked up the dying Damli in his arms. "The rescue armada will be here in seven planetary rotation's time. I do not know what they will do to this planet once they learn what happened. Fate willing, it will be another world for the Exodite Dominion. Goodbye." The War Mantle convulsed as Keb began to walk away.
-
Ambassador Herjall
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
"It's been my experience that people in power prefer more intrinsic things within their halls. While these chairs may be fragile, they do have an appealing look to them. Aesir chairs do not share this in general, thus my comment.
"As for the location of the embassy, both of those locations appeal, but I will choose the land beside the Science embassy. I will relay the location to my people, and they will do the work.
"Thank you for your time here," she said as she stood. "I must go to oversee the construction. We can work out the finer details of the trade at a later time."
Captain Gærn
Satyron IV
Sector (-25, 8 )
"Farewell."
The Captain made a few timed clicks to her soldiers and left with them. They retreated to the other side of the lake, Tacticals moving through the water and Berserkers making jumps around the lake to quickly reach the other side. The Berserkers left the area first while the Einherjar remained in place. The Tacticals, along with the Captain, left before the Einherjar finally moved from their stances and turned to leave. Finally the Grey Wolves began to back up and left as well.
Valkyries and Berarr dropped and landed. Once loaded, the Drekrekkr and tanks were lifted back to their ships. The ships then set a course to the outskirts of the star system, and Captain Gærn began preparing her message.
-
Bridge Communications Records
IRW Venator Stellarum
Avon, Avonite Enclave
"Subcommander!! We have Commander Gela's team, and the surface shuttle reports cloaked and heading for open space!!" Centurion Fedral reported.
"Excellent, Centurion. You have the bridge. I'm going to see the Commander in the transporter bay."
Infirmary
Dr. Rolex was working frantically. The crucial operations had gone well, and the The damn xeno appears stable! I just hope they're similar enough to the Devori insectoids... otherwise the bandages might be a bit uncomfortable...
"How is she, doctor?"
Rolex twirled about to find a rather aggravated Commander Gela, "Well hello Commander! I take it your trip wasn't as productive as the Tal Shiar would have hoped?"
"That is not our present concern, doctor. Rather, it is your patient" Gela replied, gesturing to Councillor Darkcloak.
"Ahh yes. The Avonite. She's sedated presently, but if you really desire it I suppose I could wake her. I'd prefer to let her rest a few hours though first."
"Very well, doctor, you may let Darkcloak remain sedated for another hour and continue rehabilitation. I will expect a report on the matter in my ready room in one hour."
Communications Records
IRW Pevatha
Romulan Border Zone
Commander Tovanus reached the landing bay just as the Lernaean shuttle was landing. He strode through the column of Romulan troops at attention to greet the Lernaeans. His voice boomed over the mechanical reverberations of the landing bay, "Welcome to the Imperial Romulan Warbird Pevatha!! On behalf of the Senate and People of the Romulan Star Empire, welcome!!"
The commander advanced closer to the Lernaeans disembarking, "Come right this way!! I've ordered our chef to produce a true Romulan feast! As I do believe you know, I'm Commander Tovanus. I'm pleased to finally meet Lernaeans in person!"
Orbit above Thandio 2
Thandio System
Sector (5, -6)
As he watched the carnage of the battle ensue, Admiral Relatrex read the incoming casualty reports:
IRW De'letha: Artificial Singularity Critically Damaged
IRW P'forra: Destroyed In Action
IRW Gardiae: Systems Critical
IRW Yentralia: Destroyed In Action
IRW Janerus....
Finally, he was interrupted by a transmission from Admiral Thuma, "Sir, the remants of the Wintrean Fleet are fleeing our vessels at warp. Shall I give chase?"
"Proceed as you see fit, Admiral. Your vessels have permission to begin seek and destroy operations in the Sector. Begin salvage operations of the wrecks with any vessels incapable of giving chase. Pro Imperio Romulano! Relatrex out." the Admiral turned to the Tal Shiar officer on the bridge.
"Colonel, I want footage of this great defeat of the armies of Wintreath broadcast from here to Frosthold!! We shall make them pay for what they have done. We shall make them regret the mistake that they made when they destroyed our homeland centuries ago, the mistake that continues to affect our people to this day!!"
The Admiral paused, and regained his composure, "Lieutenant open a channel to the Fleet Engineering Office aboard IRW Diastora!"
"Fleet engineering command. Your time has now come. Begin technology salvage and shipyard repair operations in the Thandio System." Admiral Relatrex waited for the response with a cold, remorseless complexion.
"This is Fleet Engineering Command. The work shall commence immediately, Thandicus. Fleet Engineering out."
Ground, Planet Trilia
Romulan Occupation Command
Romulan-Occupied Wintrean Remant
The Tal Shiar Captain stepped forward and addressed the latest captured Terrans, "Attention citizens of the Remnant Empire of Wintreath. You are now in the custody of the Romulan Star Empire Tal Shiar. You will be interrogated for all pertinent information, and upon completion of interrogation, will be transported to the Latifundia Sector to work as agricultural labourers, or to various other Sectors in the event the Tal Shiar deems your abilities..." he paused, waiting for the fear to spread throughout the crowd, "deems your abilities sufficient for the performance of non-agricultural tasks, which I would hope will be a vast number of you. However! I caution you from not revealing information, for the punishment for inaccurate information and answers means not only your own death, but the torture and deaths of your family and friends as well..."
As the speech continued, a Tal Shiar Polisium hopped up onto the stage and whispered into the Captain's ear. "Is there a Doctor Lajunen among you?" the Captain boomed...
-
Ensign Keb Diden
Surface of Satryon IV
Sector (-25, 8 )Ensign Keb returned to his people.
"Well?" One of the Second Lieutenants asked, "What happened?"
"They have allowed the rescue armada to retrieve us. In exchange, I gave them my word that we will not continue the raid."
"I see. Well, I suppose we can wait."
Keb disengaged his War Mantle, causing a low hum to ring out. As he set the black folds of the machine down, he felt restraints clamp down on his hands and feet. Behind him was the Second Lieutenant.
"I'm sorry, Ensign. You know why I'm doing this."
Keb sighed. "I understand." They took him away from the loose crowd of Damli and put him in one of the partially surviving rooms, making sure he couldn't escape
Exodite Fleet Armada
In orbit around Satryon IV
Sector (-25, 8 )One week later, the armada arrived without warning. Pilot Eja and the Occultist watched them as they exited hyperspace: twenty Archer-classes supporting twenty Beast-class Gunships. Close behind them were three Winter-class Star Destroyers. Faintly visible from the high-powered telescope were seven specks, Wanderer-class Dropships. Led by Head Captain Ova Ribej, they had their shields up and were prepared for battle.
As news of the Fleet's arrival passed, Keb held his breath. Now was he moment of truth.
-
IRW Venator Stellarum, in orbit around Avon
Councilor Irk Flowchaser
Before a reply could so much as be though the transporter beam hit them and Irk, sending them to the Romulan Ship. Irk stood, completely stunned and silent. Nooo...
The Romulans went this way and that, working on the ship, and Irk silently stood there until Gela walked out. He followed her until she entered what he guessed was the Infirmary. There she was. Kir. On the table. She was alive, thank Spode, but how had she...
Oh no.
"Did.....did you.....teleport her here?"
Capitol Building, Industries Spirit, Avon
Councilor Jan Lightbringer
"THE ATTACK FAILED? HOW! HOW. DO YOU. FUCK THAT UP!?" Jan screamed at Lis Growler who was staring fearfully at him, one talon in a panicked defensive posture. "I'm...I'm sorry, sir! They had Alien help! S...Some Romulans where helping them!" Jan was about to scream some more when he stopped mid breath, tilting his head. His feelers where up at rapt attention. "What? The Romulans opened fire on you?" Lis nervously nodded. Jan looked down, then took a step forward and put his hand on Lis's shoulder. She was absolutely terrified now, cowering like a stuck dog. "Very well. Go back to your men, Lis." Lis took this chance and bolted like a rabbit. Jan turned to the other man in the room, Dar Malediction, and smiled. "We have a cause now. Time for you to go home, Dar. We're heading to the High Cathedral now, my friend." He laughed as he walked away.
High Cathedral Of Spode
Councilor Des Skyflyer
"What do you mean, the attack failed? Wait, you never fired on AvCom? Why? BECAUSE YOU WHERE CHASING ONE SHIP? WHAT? ITS ONE BLOODY SHIP! SO WHAT IF ITS BLASTED ROMULAN, DOES THE GSN STILL BLOODY WORK? THEN WHAT"S YOUR BLOODY EXCUSE? THAT ROMULAN SHIP IS NOT TO LEAVE AVON, UNDERSTOOD?" She ended the communication. Spodedamn, things where going downhill. First, this business at Tannhauser. Now, whole systems from the outer colonies where going dark. Reports of "horrific monsters" that looked like Avonites. And now the Romulans are working with Kir Darkcloak. Then rumors of the return of Spode's First......things where not going well, generally. At least Yul Deacon and his men where still ok. Her message unit beeped. Who could this be? If that idiot Hanover fucked something else up.....
A message from Jan Lightbringer? "Des, its Jan Lightbringer. I know you orchestrated this whole thing. I know you plotted this. But, I'm willing to move past this to make a deal. I want to meet you."
Well, this was interesting.....
-
Captain Gærn
AFS Volklang
Outer Reaches Of Satyron System
Sector (-25, 8 )
Days were spent thinking of what to say. It had to be quick and to the point while easily understood. A short phrase was decided upon by the Captain.
When the Damli rescue fleet arrived at the system, sensor alarms went off. Forty three ships of considerable armament exited hyperspace near Satyron IV. The Captain ordered the message sent to the Damli. It was a video recording of the Captain without her helmet on, a sign of respect, speaking the phrase in the Damli tongue without the aid of a translator.
It simply said, "You are approaching Aesir territory. Tread carefully."
Once the message was sent, the order was given to leave the system. Both ships entered hyperspace and disappeared from the system.
-
AES Redoubt
Captain Kli Waverider
"AFS Jörmungandr, we were wondering if it was possible for the Avonite Diplomatic Delegation to meet with Jarl Brunnhilde."
AES Class, Flagship of the 3rd Avonite Defensive Fleet, in orbit around Believe
Admiral Jac Trhpanner
As an Admiral, Jac Trhpanner had the authority and ability to ignore Penitent Rapture Protocols. He'd had his fleet, over 200 ships, just sitting here, less than 3 hours away from Avon. Believe was the second planet colonized by the Avonites, his brother Jur would know, and was a stones throw away from the Capital. There had been radio silence since then. Multiple messages to AvCom went unanswered. The time to wait was over. He opened a hail to his entire fleet. "All ships, this is Admiral Trhpanner. We're going to Avon. All ships, prepare to move." The fleet jumped and they were on their way to Avon....
-
Witchian Scout & Learnean Diplomatic Fleet
Somewhere around the Witchian border
"Ah, I see. In fact, we have a ship from Learnea with us to discuss the building of an embassy. Do you care to join us over in the capitol?" The scout replied.
-
Exodite Fleet Rescue Armada
In orbit around Satryon IV
Sector (-25, 8 )
The message was received, and not warmly. With a small delay, twenty lasers and several hypervelocity torpedoes converged on the points that the Aesir ships were seen, but where there was supposed to be a spectacle of world-shattering explosions and energetic clouds of ionized plasma, there was nothing. Those mysterious ships were ready to leave as soon as they beamed their message at the Damli. Captain Ova Ribej realized that these phantom ships and their reptilian masters must be behind the failure of the Scout ship to return. Shields up and moving slowly, the swarm of ships approached the planet, and the seven Wanderer-class dropships made a fiery yet safe descent.
Ova listened closely to the reports of her soldiers once the dropships had picked up all the surviving Damli and their technology.
"What did we get out of this, if anything?"
"Several useful plant and animal specimens, including a blue-skinned humanoid primitive. The biochemistry of much of the planet's life is similar to our own." The Occultist smiled. "This is a very important discovery, ma'am."
"Wonderful. Let's listen to the bad news now. Casualty report?"
He looked back at his screen for the story. "Wanderer-class Lockhead damaged beyond repair, ma'am.
Fifty-six dead, forty-seven severely wounded, including expedition leader Lieutenant Sih Ledif, who is in critical condition. Ensign Keb Diden, Lesser Weapons Control, has been arrested for insubordination and is currently sealed inside the brig aboard this ship, ma'am."
"Insubordination? Please elaborate."
"He initially attempted to stage a mutiny when it became clear that Lieutenant Ledif wished to continue with the raid. It is believed that his intentions were to force an immediate return to the Fleet and warn the Admiralty of these Aesir people."
"I see. I suppose there is little left to do but relay these messages to the Admiralty. They will want to see this. Engage hyperspace drive!"
All at once, the entire Armada disappeared into hyperspace. It would be a short journey before reaching the Left Fleet forces, which would inform the Council of Seven.
-
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
En route to Vivaldi
Sectors (-17, 18) to (-12, 24)
"Yes, that is good," Mott told the Ambassador Ulfír. He then left the Aesir to resume his duties as captain.
The ship quickly passed within the borders of Science, and before long they had arrived at the capital. As they entered the Clausius system, Mott notified the Ambassador of their arrival.
Diplomatic Mission to Lernaea
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
Rogers ordered the ships to begin landing and constructing the new embassy.
Science Institute at Frostlake
Frostlake City, Wintrean Remnant
Sector (-3, 3)
The message from the Wintrean government caused quite some disturbance in the usually quiet Science embassy. After some back-and-forth discussion with Vivaldi, the Scientists concluded that, were the Acarians and Romulans to succeed in their endeavors, they would likely not stop with Wintreath. Further, their recently negotiated and signed treaty essentially necessitated support. They thus sent a reply message, stating support for Wintreath and promising aid.
Diplomatic Mission to Aesir Empire
Drekiheimr
Sector (-23, 14)
"Thank you for the invitation to meet with the Jarl," replied Glass. "I will be heading out to the Jörmungandr as soon as possible."
Glass and a small group of aides boarded a Feynmann-class shuttle and began travelling to the Aesir flagship.
Science Expeditionary Force
Orbiting Dalton
Sector (-12, 24)
In response to the Wintrean message of attack, the Ministry of Defense began assembling a military and humanitarian Expeditionary Force to send to Wintreath. The force was not that large, as it was limited by the Science military's size, as well as by domestic peacekeeping and humanitarian operations; nevertheless, they spared what they could.
After some time, the Expeditionary Force was fully assembled, and began to head out toward Wintreath.
Vivaldi
As the Wintrean convoy arrived at the Science capital, the State Ministry sent out a welcome message with instructions on where to build their de facto embassy.
Special Task Force of the Scientific Exploration Fleet
Within Witchian Territories
Sector (-15, -14)
Bailey though about the Witchians' proposal for a moment. While a significant detour from their explorations, the journey to the Witchian capital would be helpful for gaining knowledge on Witchian society and culture.
"Yes, that would be most excellent," responded Bailey at last. "Can we have directions to your capital?"
-
AES Class, Flagship of the 3rd Defensive Fleet, in orbit around Avon
Admiral Jac Trhpanner
No....
Avon burned. The holy world.....
Whoever did this was going to pay.
"Sir, We've scanned the immediate area. There appears to be a fleet in orbit, preliminary scans indicate the Home Fleet. AES Murphy is leading the fleet." The diagnostics ensign spoke as he tapped his console. The Comms ensign spoke next. "I've patched into most active comms networks, sir. From what I can gather, there was an armed assault on the Capitol building, a Councilor was killed and the rest have splintered. There seems to be 3 separate factions and a lot of confusion. Wait..." the ensign froze. "Sir, there are reports of....Romulans in the system." Everyone froze. Romulans. Here? The bastards had to have a hand in whatever was going on. " Patch into the GSN. Get a reading on the Romulans, wherever they are. Open a comms link to the Murphy. Hopefully Admiral Hanover is still alive and can answer some questions."
AES Murphy, Flagship of the remnants of the Home Fleet, in orbit around Avon
Admiral Fir Hanover
"What's the Third Fleet doing here? They're supposed to be on Believe!" Fir was standing. His fleet was one of the largest in the Avonite Navy and it had been pretty hurt. He still outnumbered the Third but another bloody fight with Avonites was not what he signed up for. The Comms ensign called out. "Sir! Its the Class! They would like a sit rep and are asking if we need any help with the Romulans!" Fir turned around and breathed a sigh of relief. Thank Spode. "Thank them and ask the to rendezvous with the Stamper and Western Catolina. Tell them to find the Romulans and destroy them. Also, get me Councilor Des Skyflyer. We need to wrap this up, and soon."
AvCom, Industries Spirit, Avon
Station Inspector Div Deltawader
Great. Avonman was dead. His corpse was pulled from the battlefield. Irk and Kir were just....gone. Not a trace. Same went for the Romulans. Without a command structure, Div was now the highest ranker in AvCom. A Police SI. Only one rank above Sergeant. Just great. Planets, fleets, just about everyone was asking for a sitrep and he had nothing for them. A rather harried Corporal ran up to his, shotgun in one hand. "Sir.... what do we do now? There's...there's..." Div put his hand on the Corporal's shoulder. "It's ok." It really wasnt. Even in the endless war it never got this bad. There was... nothing. No one in charge. Another Sgt running up behind him broke him from his thoughts. "Sir! We're receiving a transmission from the High Cathedral. It's Des Skyflyer!" Div turned, a look of shock on his face. "Skyflyer's ok? Wha...great! She can take charge! I'll talk to her right now. Patch me through!"
-
Lieutenant Kommander Kjoll
Space Station Jallr
Sector (-24, 10)
Kjoll stared good and hard at his view screen. He was having a video chat with Captain Gærn. A chat he didn't much want or like. The rise of a hostile civilization, the Exodite Dominion, was very concerning.
Once the debriefing was over, Kjoll was silent. The silence was only broken after a good fifteen minutes.
"Keep patrolling the outer sectors. I don't want any surprises."
"Aye, Lieutenant Kommander."
"And avoid anymore confrontations. You're likely to have much more than just a damaged Valkyrie the next time."
"Of course. Gærn out."
The screen changed back to a tactical layout of the space around them with the station in the middle, and Kjoll turned to his comms officer.
"Comm, get the word out about the Exodite Dominion. And order the nearby fleets to be on alert. Any unauthorized entrance into our space is to be met by all necessary force. They know we're here, and they know who we are. They won't come looking with just a single dropship next time."
"Aye, Sir."
Large fleets of 50-75 ships congregated on every system with a habitable world with scouts watching the remaining systems in all sectors along the southwestern border. Scanners were set to detect Exodite signatures, and weapons were kept hot.
Ambassador Ulfír
Scientific Observation Force Above Vivaldi
Sector (-12, 24)
"I appreciate the notice, Captain. I will make my way to your shuttle bay swiftly."
Ulfír began making his way to the shuttle bay, moving quickly but carefully so as not to trample any of the Science crew members.
-
Frosthold Castle
Frostlake City
Sector (-3, 3)
"Interesting that you seem so insistent on your title, when just moments earlier you did not mind," the guard shot back. "In any case, Ecstatic, our meeting with Innsmouth does not preclude a separate meeting with you later, if you go through the proper protocols."
"As for your message, the Monarch is watching our conversation at the very moment. He is, needless to say, currently being informed."
Outside the Castle
Another guard greeted Admiral Innsmouth as he approached the Castle, and escorted him inside to meet the Monarch.
Inside the Castle
Monarch Wintermoot and his cabinet were learning of Science's promise of aid just as Innsmouth arrived. They welcomed the Avonite in.
Planetary Traffic Control
Space traffic controllers contacted the Lernaean delegation with a pre-prepared message and gave them instructions to land.
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy
Protheus, Allied States of Lernaea
Sector (-18, 1)
A shuttle departed from the Wintrean convoy, and soon landed on Protheus for the meeting.
Wintrean Diplomatic Mission to the Aesir Empire
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
"Thank you," Lundgren responded. "We would greatly appreciate your aid." She paused a moment, and then continued. "Shall we being more formal talks now?"
Trilia Scientific Research Station
Frozen Realm of Wintreath under Romulan occupation
Sector (5, -6)
Lajunen stepped up. "Uh, hi."
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy
Vivaldi, Democratic Empire of Rationalist Science
Sector (-12, 24)
Shuttles from the convoy began landing and building the embassy.
-
Pyat'sot Pervyy Journals
"What I remember about the first battle of the war... was the chaos. In seconds, the near quiet vacuum of space, would turn into a mess of lasers. It would soon become a hellish fight. Small craft were zooming all over the place, and capital ships making the best of their firepower. Our legion, the Drakonovskiye Pyat'sot Pervyy Legion, has been assigned to the esteemed Grand Admiral Aedyn Zaegun to deal with the Wintreath forces at Varno. Our legion was assigned most of the Specter starfighters. My squad would soon launch from a brand new Anastasia Capital Class Ship made in the Treon Ship Yards. Fighting in the cockpit of a Specter was a unique experience, but the battle would not compare to the simulations back home or the previous battles to occupy and annex minor worlds... All the screaming of people whose starcraft got destroyed, the confusing changing of orders and targets, the death of friends you will never see again - all created a profound effect on the mind."
Aedyn Zaegun's Fleet
Varno
Sector (6,-6)
Space soon dissolved into a dazzling mess of fire. Soon, Zaegun would realize some of the cons of his new theoretical strategy, but worrying about that will come later. Wintrean ships soon appeared out of hyperspace, and joined the fray.
However, the strategy would not be the end of them. Acarian military structure was created in order to give commanders the initiative, while high command would give a simple objective. In this case, the objective was to ensure the destruction and retreat of Wintrean ships around Varno. Capital ships and their smaller brethren were in squads. This secondary strategy was created so groups of ships could focus fire down a ship, ensuring a quicker destruction of a ship and its removal from the battle.
Already, the grouping of ships were seen, as they focused their barrages on the enemy ships. Meanwhile, Zaegun would micromanage his larger group to help out and give out overall commands about greater dangers, asking groups nearby to change their focus.
The ship Zaegun was commanding from was being fired upon too, but the particle field proved effective. Zaegun would then order the ship's starcraft to bomb the threat. Also, he would position his ship to prepare a barrage of fire upon the enemy. Zaegun hoped that the battle would be won soon.
Filipp Nakhimov's Fleet
Dara
Sector (6,-6)
Filipp was commanding his fleet as well, doing his best to deal with the incoming reinforcements. He was mainly in command of the Acarian Dvesti Dvenadtsat' Batal'ona, which was already record lowest losses so far. Filipp was often calm and collected, even in the most tense situations. His strategy was being cautious, yet aggressive at the same time. He looked for every opening and advantage he could to turn the tide of battles. Since he was fighting for a highly urbanized planet, he had much of the Remus D Frigates. He used these in space to focus its torpedo and missile fire on the enemy ships he deemed the toughest and strongest. Filipp hoped the battle will output the least losses as possible, as he cared for his troops deeply.
Diplomatic Convoy
Allied States of Lernaea Border
"That is wonderful news," replied Katarina Marianne. "We shall see to establishing a permanent embassy in your capital, and we shall inform our capital of Zuophus to set up a designated area in our Foreign Quarter"
Zuophus, United Acarian Empires
Foreign Quarter
Sector (5, -19)
The diplomat said to Bergli, "The United Acarian Empires has decided to give you diplomatic immunity. You shall stay here in the Foreign Quarter, and we will provide some comfort of living to you and your friends and also provide for your life. Acaria will discuss with Wintreath on your transfer back home."
Zuophus, United Acarian Empires
Private Home of Senator Isilian Acacius
Night Time
Sector (5, -19)
Isilian Acacius was conversing with a few other senators in his private home. His home was elaborate and well furnished, as it was in the uppermost level of the city. Droid servants served drinks and snacks to the senators. Isilian was a notable in the Senate, as he was from and leader of the planet of Efrion.
Efrion was a well known for it's peaceful ways, and it's beautiful environment. The planet was inhabited by a few billion, but most lived in the only city in the planet. The rest was all wilderness, protected by its strict environmental laws. It was very much a green planet, with no carbon emissions other than by natural means (breathing). It was powered by renewable sources of energy as well.
Isilian invited other senators to converse a meeting about the latest decisions. Another notable senator with him was Lydimiya Marcia of Poscolla, another notable beautiful planet. Although in this case, Poscolla had a diverse population of races and several smaller cities than just one. Also, Poscolla is debatedly not as pacifist.
Isilian started saying, "This is going to be harmful to Acaria... We will lose a lot of manpower."
"This militarization policy is quite questionable in my opinion. Many families and people will be affected," replied Lydimiya.
"Yes... quite. I do not like the direction the empire is going, or what Consul Nicholas Æinridisson is doing. Perhaps he is trying to increase his power with this war. Although he hasn't enacted emergency powers yet, other than the creation of a Grand Army, this is his 7th term of election."
"I see what you are saying Isilan, but what are we to do about it? It seemed most of the senators have agreed with the policies."
"Yes, but I have noticed there is some dissent. Not everything looks as good as it seems within the senate. Many want change in the empire: change in policy, change in everything."
"It is quite interesting that he got elected 7 times in a row," said another senator from Rieter.
Lydimiya answered, "It is... but it is probably due to his militarization policy that he got elected. The tides of change are coming to the empire, a new age. But how golden will this age seem?"
The other senator (from Osworia) spoke up, "This war will bring some good to Acaria, such as new innovations and cultural upbringing... But I do not believe in Nicholas. I'd support a Vote of No Confidence in the consul."
"A Vote of No Confidence?" replied the Rieter senator. "That is an interesting decision. But Emperor Zemas is friends with Nicholas is he not?"
Isilian responded, "He is on good terms with Nicholas, but his involvement in government has decreased ever since the heir got sick... No, he is too occupied to deal with government. But for now, I say we are finished with this discussion. None of us will speak of this to anyone, even your friends and family, until the time is right, agreed?"
All the other senators nodded and started to leave. The droids started to clean up the empty glasses as they left.
Senator Lydimiya was the last one to leave. "You believe this is the best course of action Isilian?"
"No, I do not... But we must do something. Good night, and lightspeed Senator Lydimiya."
Treon,
Treon Military Base
Sector (7,-16)
Dr.Khador was almost finished with his latest research project, which he called the AT-AW-7e (All Terrain Armoured Walker). But soon, he would have a new task. He would have to gather the best of his scientists and head to an uninhabited planet on the edge of the frontier facing away from the center of the galaxy. After he ensured that the AT-AW-7e was finished in its experimentation stage, and that it was in the stage of improving any final errors, he prepared to head off into the unknown reaches of the galaxy.
-
Donna Leonard - Diplomat Convoy to Romulans
IRW Pevatha
Romulan Border Zone
"It's a pleasure to meet some Romulans as well," Donna responded. "I'm Donna by the way. Donna Leonard." Had she heard correctly? She'd be one of the first Lernaeans to experience alien meals and culture! She tried to stay professional but her pulse quickened in excitement as she followed Commander Tovanus into the alien spaceship.
Wallace White - Diplomat to Aesir
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
"Alright!" replied White. "It's been a pleasure working with you, Ambassador. I hope that this agreement will bring prosperity to both our people. I'll leave you to your duties now. You can contact me anytime!"
Diplomatic Convoy to Wintreans
Sector (-3, 3)
A shuttle departed from the Lernaean convoy, and soon landed for the meeting.
Craig Smith - Diplomatic Convoy to Wintreans
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
Craig Smith rushed along with his ceremonial guard to meet the Wintreans that were just coming in. He couldn't believe what was happening! He would be the first to meet the original people! He arrived at the landing bay as he heard the Wintrean shuttle coming closer and awaited its arrival.
Diplomatic Convoy to Acarians
Allied States of Lernaea Border
"Thank you very much. I'll get my people over to your capital of Zuophus to set up an embassy."
Witchian Scout & Learnean Diplomatic Fleet
Somewhere around the Witchian border
"Of course," replied Jones. He reached for his comm and shouted, "Plot a course! We are heading to New Witchmond!"
-
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
Orbiting Vivaldi
Sector (-12, 24)
Mott watched as Ambassador Ulfír made his way to him in the docking bay. After being mildly amused by the Fleet crew who had to hastily get out of the way to avoid being trampled by the titanic Aesir ambassador, he greeted Ulfír once more.
"Would you like to return to your ship or proceed immediately to the planet?" Mott asked the Ambassador.
Science Expeditionary Force
Near Wintrean border
Sector (-6, 9)
Soon, the expeditionary force arrived at Wintreath, and sent out a message asking for further directions.
Special Task Force of the Scientific Exploration Fleet
Within Witchian Territories
Sector (-15, -14)
Following the Lernaeans' lead, the Scientists jumped into hyperspace, heading for the heart of New Witchmond.
Diplomatic Mission to Aesir Empire
Drekiheimr
Sector (-23, 14)
Ambassador Glass's shuttle soon arrived at the Jörmungandr, and asked to dock and meet with the new Jarl.
Embassy of Science to Lernaea
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
Soon, the Scientific embassy was complete. Rogers sent out messages to both the Lernaean government and his own, and the embassy quickly opened.
-
Bridge Communications Records
IRW Venator Stellarum
Avon, Avonite Enclave
"Subcommander! Avonite fleet exiting hyperspace. The Intelligence computer identifies them as elements of the 3rd Fleet. Orders sir?"
"Jam all communications in the system. I want all comms ranges flooded, you hear me! No communication shall get through, you hear!? Prepare transporters for emergency return beam to AvCom. Additionally, appraise the Commander and Admiral Pistrix of our situation immediately."
Infirmary
"Yes, Councilor Flowchaser. She was beamed out as quickly as Romulan technology would allow. Ideally it would have been mid-flight, but I'm afraid interference resulted in some ground impact before transport. Doctor Rolex assures me that she will make a full recovery."
The Commander's wrist communicator flashed, "AVONITE 3 FLEET EXITING HYPERSPACE IN SYSTEM. PRECAUTIONARY COMMUNICATIONS JAM HAS BEEN PUT IN PLACE. ADM PX APPRAISED OF SITUATION ETA OF FLEET UNKNOWN. RETURN TO BRIDGE—SEMAL"
Admiral Pistrix's Fleet
IRW D'Venorex Elysia
Southern Avonite Enclave
En Route to Avon
"Admiral! Urgent message from the Stellarum! Another Avonite fleet has exited hyperspace in the Avonite home system and they are requesting an update on our arrival."
"Respond secure channel, advise ETA. Signal the fleet. I want all vessels to give me more speed!"
"As you wish, Admiral!"
Communications Records
IRW Pevatha
Romulan Border Zone
"Wonderful! Good to meet you, Commander Leonard! We are truly delighted to have you aboard today, truly! This way!"
Commander Tovanus twirled around and led the party through a pair of viridescent semitransparent double doors etched with a variety of complex, Romulan geometric and symbolic designs. Through this was a room with a green and white marble floor, a Trychaean table with an white, emerald and gold tablecloth, and various jade dishes emblazoned with the seal of the Romulan Star Empire.
"Ahh, yes! This would be the dining hall! I have to admit, the jade dishware is hardly usual, but I thought that it would be very good to give you the entire cultural experience! You are, after all, now within the borders of the empire, so why not get a few of the benefits?"
He beamed at his Lernaean guests as he grabbed a bottle of Romulan ale from the table.
Ground, Planet Trilia
Romulan Occupation Command
Romulan-Occupied Wintrean Remant
The Tal Shiar Officer responded to Dr. Lajunen with what only could be described as a sickening combination of a smirk, sneer, and grin. "I'm afraid that you have been selected for special interrogation by the Tal Shiar Special Weapons Research Bureau. I'm sure you'll cooperate though. It'd be a shame if you chose loyalty to your state over that to your family... this way!"
The Polisium then handcuffed the Doctor and led him through corridors and turbolifts until it became quite clear that they were no longer in any Wintrean construction, until they stopped in front of a door that read:
DIRECTOR LEMARAK
COMMANDER, PROJECT POLLENTIA
The door opened to reveal an ivory room with a great bay window overlooking the snowy white Trilian landscape behind a black desk at which a Romulan officer sat pouring over his work. The officer paused and looked up, "Ahh, Doctor Lajunen. I'm pleased to finally meet you..."
-
Ambassador Herjall
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
"I will let you know if I need anything." And with that, the Ambassador got up and walked out with her guards.
Ambassador Ulfír
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
Orbiting Vivaldi
Sector (-12, 24)
"Proceeding immediately to the planet would help speed things along," he told Mott. "We have been delayed long enough."
Jarl Brunnhilde
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
"Of course. I shall issue the order for the fleet to move to the Wintreath border and await orders from your people. I would appreciate it if you let your people know we're coming so as to avoid any unnecessary conflict.
"After the fleet gets underway, I shall be returning to our capitol world to officially take my place as Jarl. Would you care to follow?"
Comms Officer
Bridge
"Avonite vessel, you are cleared to bring your representative aboard." He then contacted the Science shuttle and said, "Science vessel, you are cleared for landing."
-
Avonite People's Defense Force Station S-4d, Southern Avonite Enclave
Sgt Tip Wallayer
Sgt Wallayer was just enjoying his nice cup of Andulyssian flavor bean coffe, lying back and relaxed. After all, it might be Penitent Rapture right now but nothing had happened for a good day, probably just a drill. Once the stand down order was given, things would go back to normal. A light beeped on his console. He scratched his leg then lazily pressed a read out on his console. It showed that...an entire fleet of unidentified cloaked vessels had entered Avonite space and were progressing deeper into our territory. Wallayer put down his coffee and ordered a rescan. It had to be a mistake, the GSN had to be malfunctioning or something. The same result. Wallayer opened a drawer and hurriedly pulled out his quick identification card list...not Kevarian....not Laurentian....definitely not Avonite...Romulan....they were Romulan ships. The Romulans had invaded Avon!
Admiral of the 4th Peoples Defense Force Dac Deevader
He stared at the screen in disbelief. It cant be true. It just.... it was true. He leaned back. The projected trajectory put it toward... Avon. The damn pointy eared untrustworthy backstabbing manipulators were invading Avonite space! There was only one thing for it! He stood up. "EVERYONE LISTEN UP! WE HAVE BEEN INVADED BY THE DAMN ROMULANS! FOR THE DEFENSE OF SPODE, FOR THE DEFENSE OF AVON, FOR THE DEFENSE OF YOUR FAMILY AND ALL YOU HOLD DEAR WE MUST PROTECT OUR HOMELAND! I want all reserves across Avon space mobilized! Elements of all fleets to converge on Avon! All fleets to adopt Anti-Romulan stances! All ships to patch into the GSN and to activate their own GSN units! Get the bulk of our fleet moving towards Avon! 5 ships every 90 seconds, no delays, no excuses! WE THINK WE ARE GOOD AT WAR?" a rousing cheer filled the room from everyone in the station bridge. "NOW LET'S PROVE IT! FOR THE ENCLAVE!" the room exploded into cheers as everyone rushed to their stations, contacting distant commanders and moving men to battle positions. War had returned to the Avonite Enclave....
Admiral Ark Innsmouth, Frosthold Planet
Admiral Innsmouth stopped as his communicator beeped again. Urgent message. "Excuse me a moment." he said to his escort. He read the message from the Capitol building. It was from Jan Lightbringer? What... invasion? " THOSE SPODEDAMNED ROMULANS! THEY'LL PAY FOR THIS!" in a rage he threw his communicator against the wall. "THIS MEANS WAR!" he turned and continued to advance towards the crown room. He had one, single purpose now. He entered the Monarch's room. "Your Majesty." he said as he bowed, waiting for the Monarch's response....
-
AES Blader, in orbit around Avon
Captain Gry Breadbakker
"What the hell is going on? I get attacked in AvCom and now the 3rd Fleet is here firing on the Romulans? What the hell is going on?" Captain Breadbakker sat at his captains chair for the first time since this all began." I'm not sure sir, we've been in orbit and in contact with Admiral Hanover's fleet since this all began! I have no idea what's going on." his first officer replied. This was screwed up! The 3rd fleet thought that the Romulans were responsible? They were invited guests! He had to.....
The Blader exploded as fire from Avon ground batteries pierced the armour and detonated engineering. Without it's shields active the ship never stood a chance. Soon the whole ship was caught in a massive explosion. Another casualty of war.
AES Murphy, in orbit around Avon
Admiral Fir Hanover
Hanover watched as the Blader imploded, killing all onboard. At least, that would be the official story. Any life pods would be dealt with. Now no one could possibly confirm that the Romulans were invited guests. Except Darkcloak and Flowchaser. But if that idiot from the police was right and they were on that damn Romulan ship they wouldn't be a problem much longer. "Open a line to Trhpanner. Make it a line to line communication to cut through the Romulan interference. Tell him the Romulans just destroyed the Blader. Then open a hailing frequency to the Romulans. I want to talk to them." The comms ensign nodded and tapped his console. Soon a message was broad casted to the Romulans.
"This is Admiral Fir Hanover of the Avonite Home Systems Defense Force. You're alone. You're surrounded. You have no hope what so ever of victory. And despite your parlor trick, yes, we know about your precious cloaking devices, we know exactly where you are. We can blow you out of the sky at a moments notice. The only reason, the only reason, you are still alive despite everything you have done to my people is the fact that you have kidnapped our Councilors. Return Kir Darkcloak and Irk Flowchaser, unharmed and in good health, then surrender or I promise you we will destroy your ship before you can even comprehend what you've done. You have one minute to reply."
Hanover sincerely hoped they wouldn't reply. If they didnt, he had an excuse to kill them. If they did, he could take Darkcloak and Flowchaser and then parade them as POW's. A win-win for him either way. He waited for the minute to pass.....
AES Redoubt, next to Aesir Fleet
Captain Kli Waverider
"Thank you very much, I will board promptly." Waverider got up to, for the second time, meet the Aesir Jarl. Hopefully this one would survive the day....
Somewhere
? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?
Lajardi Voidwatcher existed. He knew that much. What was he? Where was he? His mind was hazy.....where was his mind? It felt like he was trapped. By what? Where? What had happened? Soon a voice whispered to him in the dark, sensing his struggle.
Sleep....sleeeeppp....let the dreams come.....yesss.....yessssss
It was in his mind. He knew that. He had to fight. He had to get out of this prison. Where ever it was..
I said sleep.....rest.....rest....yessssss.....yessssssss.....your eyes are heavy.......sleeeeeeeepppppp
Laj had to fight. He... he had to.....
Lajardi Voidwatcher, or what ever it had become, slipped away again. Resting. But not dead.
? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?
Years ago, longer than any person could possibly remember, when Avonites fought each other with sticks and stones, 3 men had meet a weird Avonite. He dressed funny, talked funny and felt funny. But the 3 men had bigger concerns than a strange man with strange thoughts. Like providing for their families and keeping predators at bay. But they would always distrust the strange man who entered their village. Finally, after a particularly bad hunt, the 3 men accused the strange man. Hunts had become difficult. Animals acted like they were in a panic. Strange lights were seen in the sky. Stranger things had happened. Obviously, the Strange man had insulted the Gods or cast a strange spell. The strange man replied simply. "You cant insult the Gods when you are a God." That was the final straw. The 3 men beat the Strange man to death for insulting the gods like that. They went home, satisfied by their act. Their names were Kip Fishcatcher, Han Spearchucker and Gar Meatcutter. The Strange man's name? Alc Spode.
Alc Spode.
If only they had know what they had done. What they had doomed their village, their people and themselves to. Now, he existed in this tired old body. It's previous inhabitant had named it Lajardi Voidwatcher. The others had bodies named Poe Pestlewait and Danoz Preacher. He had since stopped using the name he used to have. Why would he?
He wasn't Gar Meatcutter anymore. They werent Kip Fishcatcher or Han Spearchucker either. They hadn't really been ever Spode and his people "forgave" them and "enlightened" them. Now he was cursed to carry on this damned existence. But no matter. Perfection would come. Perfection would come.....
-
Donna Leonard - Diplomat Convoy to Romulans
IRW Pevatha
Romulan Border Zone
Commander Tovanus led her further into the ship, eventually arriving at the dining hall. The Romulan commander wanted her, her, to be the first Lernaean to experience the full extent of the Romulan Star Empire. She couldn't believe it! Oh the stories she could tell her future children...
"Thank you, commander," Donna replied, with a smile spanning the length of her face. "Enlighten me Romulan Empire!"
Wallace White - Diplomat to Aesir
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
Wallace and his ceremonial guards stood as Ambassador Herjall and her party exited the room. After they walked out, he sent a dispatch to command letting them know of his progress.
-
Zuophus, United Acarian Empires
Foreign Quarter
Sector (5, -19)
"Very well then," Bergli said. It's the best I could hope for in this situation, he thought to himself.
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy
Protheus, Allied States of Lernaea
Sector (-18, 1)
The shuttle landed, and Øye and her team stepped out.
"Thank you for agreeing to meet with us on such a short notice," Øye said as she greeted the Lernaeans.
Wintrean Border Control Station
Sector (-6, 8 )
After some discussion with the Ministry of Defense and Hvitt Ridderal, the border control station sent out instructions to the Scientific Expeditionary Force on where they could observe and help in the fight against the Romulan and Acarian aggressors.
Romulan Occupation Command
Trilia Scientific Research Station, Wintreath
Sector (5, -6)
Lajunen quivered in fear. "Please, I'll do whatever you want, just don't hurt me..."
Wintrean Diplomatic Mission to the Aesir Empire
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
"Yes, continuing to Drekiheimr sounds like a good idea, since we will need to set up our permanent diplomatic office," Lundgren replied. "And I will let my people know about your military's arrival."
Wintrean reception committee for Lernaea
Monarch's spaceport, Frosthold Planet
Sector (-3, 3)
"Welcome!" Jarl Jensen said as the Lernaean delegation arrived. He and the rest of the reception then provided information on constructing the embassy.
Frosthold Castle
"Welcome, Admiral," the Monarch greeted Innsmouth. "I believe we have much to discuss."
-
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
Orbiting Vivaldi
Sector (-12, 24)
"Very well then," Mott said. He then boarded the shuttle with the Aesir ambassador and his team. A short while later, they landed.
Diplomatic Mission to Aesir Empire
Jörmungandr
Sector (-23, 14)
Glass's delegation landed in the Aesir flagship, and disembarked from their shuttle.
Science Expeditionary Force
Near Wintrean border
Sector (-6, 9)
The Expeditionary Force received the welcome from Wintreath, and headed towards the front, towards Galactic South.
Special Task Force of the Scientific Exploration Fleet
Orbiting Toobek, New Witchmond
Sector (-14, -19)
The Scientists, Lernaeans, and Witchians soon reached the Witchian capital. As they arrived, Bailey waited for the Witchains' lead.
-
Frosthold Planet
Admiral Ark Innsmouth
"Thank you for seeing me, your majesty. I hope we can come to a mutual understanding between our two peoples. I also understand that you are being invaded by the Romulans. My sincerest apologies. But I know how you feel." He paced the room. "Have you been told about the troubles in my nation? There was a terrorist attack in my capital and a member of our government was killed. I recently got an update from our capitol. Apparently, the Romulans are responsible. They have attacked our government to create chaos, possibly for an invasion similar to yours. The Romulans are obviously planning to conquer the galaxy and wipe out their biggest enemies." He rubbed his hands nervously. "I'll be honest, my government is afraid. We have been at war with ourselves for centuries but our population is decimated. We have a standing army of experienced veterans and an effective fighting force but lack the manpower to keep up a prolonged war. So my government has authorized me to make a proposal on their behalf." He faced the monarch earnestly. "What would you say to an alliance?"
Ecstatic Sul Gravemind
Sul walked hurriedly back to his shuttle. Damn those foolish Wintreans. They had no idea what they were unleashing. Jim Windwaver had asked Sul to approach the Wintreans to try and calm down whatever was happening. People were being killed and spys were everywhere. And then the attack. Sul had only recently heard about the attack. Damn it to hell, there had to be a way....
"Sul Gravemind?"
Sul stopped and turned to face the noise. It was a vigilant? And what was he holding?
"Yul Deacon sends his regards."
The ceremonial ax lifted and before Sul could even scream buried itself into his skull, killing Sul Gravemind instantly.
The killer left the ax embedded in his skull and left quickly.
-
Bridge Communications Records
IRW Venator Stellarum
Avon, Avonite Enclave
"Deploy decoy probes and set them on various courses out of the system. We shall defeat them with confusion! Modify scramblers and put shields on modulating frequencies. Tie in automated control to the helm. Computer, plot course and modify system functionality to mimic subspace distortion."
Commander Gela paused, "Beam us back down to AvCom. And the rest of the security contingent. In fact, beam ship security personnel as well. The Councillors must order their fleet to stand down."
She paused again, thinking, as Councillor Flowchaser walked in, "Out of curiosity, Councillor, do you have any way of disabling the Avonite fleet remotely? Surely you built in safeguards in the event different factions proved... uncooperative."
Admiral Pistrix's Fleet
IRW D'Venorex Elysia
Southern Avonite Enclave
En Route to Avon
"Admiral! The Avonite border defence forces are moving to intercept. Orders sir?"
"Hail the Avonite vessels! And decloak those vessels still cloaked." Admiral Pistrix cleared his throat and growled, "AVONITE VESSELS!! This is Admiral Pistrix of the Romulan Star Navy. We have no quarrel with you, but with those who would blame us for infighting within your race. And, no offence, but we wouldn't want your space in a thousand years. You have my word as an officer and a commander that I shall withdraw once we have retrieved our people from your homeworld—alive."
Communications Records
IRW Pevatha
Romulan Border Zone
"Wonderful! Good to meet you, Commander Leonard! We are truly delighted to have you aboard today, truly! This way!"
"Very well! You see here in my hand what one might call the best drink ever invented—Romulan Ale. Though I must caution you, it has quite a kick..."
After rambling on about the various culinary masterpieces of Romulus on the table, Commander Tovanus paused, "And should you like to add anything to the meal, I'm sure we could beam over anything Lernaean that you'd like to add to it! I certainly don't want this to be a one-way cultural exchange now, after all!"
Ground, Planet Trilia
Romulan Occupation Command
Romulan-Occupied Wintrean Remant
"I am Director Lemarak, of Tal Shiar Special Weapons Development. You are an ex-Wintrean scientist who is now under my command. Should you fail to do as instructed, you, and your staff, who as we speak are being given needed medial attention and shelter aboard one of our transport cruisers. Even you, Dr. Lajunen, are on IRW Arx, lead ship of the famed Arx-class. And we are about to return to my facility on Yenyria, to Project Pottentia. I want your team's assistance, which I am sure you'll provide. After all,Yenyria isn't a boring agricultural world. In fact, it's quite similar to Trillia, in that presently it's underdeveloped. Though eventually, it shall be the most advanced construction ever undertaken in the empire."
-
IRW Venator Stellarum, in orvit around Avon
Councilor Irk Flowchaser
Irk looked at his hands. No....no....."NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" Irk was screaming now, dropping to his knees as he did so. His whole body was shaking now, his mind was in a panic. "YOU KILLED US! YOU KILLED BOTH OF US! DO YOU REALIZE WHAT YOU'VE DONE? YOU TELEPORTED US! WE'RE JUST PALE SHELLS, CLONES, YOU KILLED US! YOU KILLED...you killed....you killed our souls....." Irk broke down crying. The teleporters had killed the original bodies, including their souls. They were dead. They were worse than dead. Their souls were gone, they simply did not exist in the eyes of the Avonite people. The Romulans had killed them. He got up and stumbled to Kir Darkcloak. "I'm sorry Kir...." he spoke between sobs. He reached for the knife on his belt.....
AES War's Harbinger, flagship of the 4th People's Defense Force, north of the border facing Kevarus
Admiral of the 4th Peoples Defense Force Dac Deevader
The 4th PDF was chasing the Romulan invaders. It was estimated that the fleet would catch up around... "Sir, the Romulan fleet has halted and decloaked! They are hailing us!" An ensign called out. A Romulan appeared on the screen, barking orders at them. Upon hearing his words, Deevader stood up, his hands forming fists, his face contorted in rage. The briDge crew knew what to expect, Deevader had a temper. He began shouting.
"YOU HAVE THE UNMITIGATED GALL TO BARK ORDERS AT ME? HOW DARE YOU! FIRST, YOU INVADE AVONITE SPACE UNDER CLOAK..." he gestured towards the Gravity Ops Ensign, who nodded and activated the concentrated gravity wells around the Romulans, trapping them in the area, unable to warp. "THEN YOU SHOUT ORDERS AT ME LIKE A FUCKING PRIVATE..." the last few words he spoke in utter contempt as he signaled the Weapons Ensign who targeted the Romulans. The whole fleet followed suit. "AND NOW YOU INSULT MY PEOPLE?" this sentence, if it was possible, was shouted even louder. His whole face was in full on attack mode, his spinespikes bristling, his stance aggressive. "YOU HAVE 5 SECONDS TO SURRENDER OR DIE!" he cut the comm line. He turned to the bridge crew. "On the count of 5, open fire, all ships! 1...2...3...4..."
-
Bridge Communications Records
IRW Venator Stellarum
Avon, Avonite Enclave
Commander Gela recoiled in shock—then fired her distruptor on stun at Flowchaser.
"Wake Darkcloak. I want someone who isn't sentimental to work with, and that's her."
Admiral Pistrix's Fleet
IRW D'Venorex Elysia
Avonite Enclave
En Route to Avon
"Avonite forces powering weapons and preparing to fire. Action sir?"
"Focus fire on their engines and launch all strike craft. Signal the ICC cruisers to remain behind with the strike craft, and order all Warbirds on us. It appears we'll be fighting and fleeing today." Admiral Pistrix grinned. He was certainly not the most easily intimidated commander, and was willing to sacrifice his entire fleet to achieve his mission. In this case, it involved the sacrifice of battlecruisers not even technically under Imperial Navy control. All the better he thought, as he dispatched orders from his fleet command station, ordering thousands of drone fighters to engage the Avonites, positioning the ICC hulks as walls to shield enemy fire.
"Focus fire on their flagship! Kill the head quickly and the body shall die with it!"
-
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
Valkyries carrying architects and Berarr carrying building materials and equipment began their descent from the frigates and destroyers to the predetermined area.
Ambassador Ulfír
Vivaldi
Sector (-12, 24)
Ulfír climbed out of the cramped shuttle once the hatch was opened up. Standing to his full height, he took a look around to survey his surroundings.
Jarl Brunnhilde
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
"Excellent. We shall take this longboat so no Aragonn loyalists dare challenge us on our way to the planet. Keep your ship close to mine. We should have little to no trouble once we get there, but until we do, it's better safe than sorry."
Landing Bay
A group of guards greeted the two delegations and began leading them to the bridge to meet Brunnhilde there.
-
Near Monarch's private spaceport
Frostlake City, Frosthold Planet
Sector (-3, 3)
"Sir, the killed person has been identified as Avonite 'Ecstatic Sul Gravemind.'"
"Interesting. Notify the Monarchy and Foreign Affairs Ministry immediately."
Frosthold Castle
"An alliance sounds most excellent for both of our nations' needs and interests," the Monarch replied.
After a moment, as information was relayed to him, the Monarch suddenly changed the subject.
"There's been an... incident nearby. A certain Ecstatic Sul Gravemind appears to have been murdered. I believe you know him?"
The Monarch began playing a holographic surveillance recording.
"Sul Gravemind? Yul Deacon sends his regards."
The recording finished. "Thoughts?"
Romulan Occupation Command
Trilia Scientific Research Station, Wintreath
Sector (5, -6)
"Does that mean I get to live?"
Wintrean Diplomatic Mission to the Aesir Empire
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
Ambassador Lundgren returned to the Wintrean ship. Still shaken by her experience, she began collecting her thoughts as she ordered the convoy to follow the Aesir.
-
Frosthold Planet
Admiral Ark Innsmouth
Ark froze. "Sul Gravemind is dead? How did he die? And how did you get that recording?"
AES War's Harbinger, flagship of the 4th People's Defense Force, north of the border facing Kevarus
Admiral of the 4th Peoples Defense Force Dac Deevader
'5.. FIRE!'
The fleet unleashed hell before the Romulans began moving. They targeted the smaller ships first, deeming the big Cruiser sized ships to be heavily armored but lightly armed, not much of a threat.
There were over 45 Pendelton Cruisers in the fleet and slightly over 150 ships in the fleet.
3 Wilderness class destroyers fired with pinpoint accuracy, immediately knocking out the shields of 3 Warbirds. The Wilderness ships stayed back, behind most of the rest of the fleet. 22 Pendeltons fired with everything they had on the vulnerable cruisers. With that many lasers firing, aiming was not an issue. The surface of the Romulan ships quickly became comparable to the surface of the sun (not a scientific term) and parts of the hull melted after sustained fire, resulting in one ship breaking apart and the other two listing without power. The other ships in the fleet began raining hell down on the Romulans, with almost every ship in the Avonite fleet getting hits in. The Wilderness class Destroyers were recharging the main guns....
-
Diplomatic Mission to Aesir Empire
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-23, 14)
Glass followed the guards as they were led to meet the Aesir leader.
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
Vivaldi Spaceport
Sector (-12, 24)
"Shall we meet with the Government now, or do you want to get your embassy set up?" Mott asked.
Science Expeditionary Force
Wintreath: Near Southern Front
Sector (5, -6)
The Scientist military soon arrived near the front and began making preparations for assisting the Wintreans.
-
Admiral Pistrix's Fleet
IRW D'Venorex Elysia
Southern Avonite Enclave
En Route to Avon
"Imperator! The Avonite border defence forces are firing! Orders sir?"
Admiral Pistrix smirked.
"Return fire and broadcast all records from Venator Stellarum we have. I want every ship in that Avonite fleet to receive that data! Deploy the fleet in testudo and divert engine power to shields and communications."
Ground, Planet Trilia
Romulan Occupation Command
Romulan-Occupied Wintrean Remant
Lemarak grinned devilishly.
"Yes, I'm afraid that Dr. Lajunen and Wintrean scientists from Trilia will be resettled at a secure facility immediately."
Then the comms flashed and a hologram of Captain Jayaren appeared.
"Orders, sir?"
"Yenyria. Set course immediately."
"By your command, Director."
-
IRW Venator Stellarum, in orvit around Avon
Councilor Irk Flowchaser
He grabbed his belt and pulled it out, holding the blade facing towards himself, intending to plunge it into Kir's chest. Spare her now, before she woke up. As he was raising the knife, he was hit by Gela's disruptor bolt and was knocked out cold.
Avon, SHACom, Southern Gennevik Valley Defense Base
Brigadier Max Danza
Goddamn, things were heating up. In all the time Max Danza had lived with the Avonites, even with the war, this was busy. All units on standby? On Avon? Avon? What the heck was going up in the North? He took a drink as he considered his options. Max, son of Wintrean immigrants, back when there was immigration...and when anyone even wanted to immigrate to Avon, had always felt some fondness for his home people. Being a pure Wintrean among Avonites was interesting. A Colonel knocked on his door, saluted and spoke. "Sir, message for you, straight from the Council. On the encrypted landline. Your eyes only." General Danza nodded and took the message, dismissing the Colonel. He opened the message quizzically, tilting his head as he read it. The contents shook him. He called his aide de camp. "Get everybody on immediate standby, now. Also, track the current location of a Romulan ship in our atmosphere, around the Hahsah region, but do not fire without orders from me and me alone. Understand?" He read the message again.
<<BURST MESSAGE. CO SHACOM, B.GEN DANZA, MAX DELAHUNT. GENERAL, AVON GOVERNMENT UNDER ATTACK, INDUSTRIES SPIRIT ATTACKED. SITUATION HIGHLY CHAOTIC. COUNCILOR ART MARSHWALKER CONFIRMED DECEASED. COUNCILORS KIR DARKCLOAK AND IRK FLOWCHASER MIA, PRESUMED CAPTURED. ALL ORDERS TO COME FROM COUNCILORS DES SKYFLYER AND JAN LIGHTBRINGER ONLY.
REPEAT, DISREGARD ALL ORDERS FROM KIR DARKCLOAK AND IRK FLOWCHASER. PRESUME BOTH TO BE COLLABORATING WITH ENEMY.
ARREST DARKCLOAK AND FLOWCHASER IF POSSIBLE. KILL ALL CAPTORS, REGARDLESS IF THEY SURRENDER OR NOT. TAKE NO PRISONERS OTHER THAN DARKCLOAK AND FLOWCHASER. ENEMY IS BELIEVED TO BE ROMULAN IN NATURE, ENEMY SHIP SPOTTED AT HAHSAH REGION. PROCEED AS NECESSARY TO REACQUIRE DARKCLOAK AND FLOWCHASER.
AUTH CODE: 66378 (DEVOTED PIETY)
JAN LIGHTBRINGER>>
Damn..... this was really fucked.....
Industries Spirit, Palace of Justice building, Hgh Court Chamber
Jan Lightbringer
Des Skyflyer walked into the room with about 7 of her most trusted men and Yul Deacon. That was fine, since Jan had brought Dar Malediction and a bunch of Vigilants. Ironic that this would happen in the High Court, the one place supposed to watch the Government, now a ruin like so much else in the Enclave. Jan had to use more effort to convince himself to carry on more and more everyday....
"So, I'm here Jan. What do you want to talk about?" Des spoke. Jan cleared his throat and rolled his neck.
"I know it was you, Des." "What did I do, Jan?" "Everything." Jan took a step forward as nervous soldiers watched him. "Art? The merc? The attack? All you. And can I prove it? No, but that doesn't matter, I have the Army with me." Des's face was totally stoic. Yul, on the other hand, was sweating. "I could kill you. Say you fought the guards. Died in the firefight. But I do not want to do that Des. I want your help. You've heard about the Romulans?" Des nodded. "Good. They are here. Enough shady shit has gone down that we can blame entirely on them. Art, Irk and Kir, where ever they are. And now, a whole fleet just arrived here in Avonite Space. Enough of a reason to go to war, I think." He pointed at Des. "You will join forces with me and we will crush the Romulans together. I already have a plan to get help from Wintreath. If you refuse, I will crush you. Work with me and live." He signaled Dar and shots rang out from behind Des. More came from outside as the rest of Des's men were killed. Only Yul and Des were spared. Des was still stoic and Yul looked like a whore in church. "So, Des, what do you say? Hero or casualty?"
Des narrowed her eyes. "You're not even curious why?" Jan smiled, turned and punched Yul in the face. "I do not care why. You are irrelevant. He is irrelevant. I should kill you but you are more valuable alive. Do. Not Push. Me." Des smiled.
"The Conclave jailed me. Tortured me for years. Yul was there. He spoke out against corruption in the Conclave and....disappeared for it. They have a special way, Jan, of breaking you. You think your broken and then they find a new way to destroy your soul. Yul was the only thing that kept me......sane. We showed each other humanity. After 6 years the only people we saw was each other and the guards. One time, I forget when, they drugged our food all the time, we woke up tied to chairs facing each other. His right hand untied. Revolver taped to it. One energy round inside. Our torturer was there. He told us he would hurt me, badly, unless Yul killed me. If Yul shot himself or the torturer, it would be even worse. The only mercy would come from my death. He beat me. Cut me. Burnt me. Hurt me...." Yul's eyes were glassed over. "Yul could not bring himself to shot me. For 16 hours, I was tortured. They called Yul weak. Pathetic. Cowarldy. But that day, I learned something. Something that stuck with me." Des looked at Jan. Her face was stoic but her eyes...her eyes. They showed nothing. Only death and insanity.
"We are not good people. The Avonites. We deserve death. The Conclave. The Shepards Church. The Enclave. Each and every single one of us must die. And as long as I draw breath, they will die. All of them. They will feel my pain. This whole thing? A chance to take control and cause more pain. But I'm not needed anymore. You.....you will be much better at bringing pain and destruction than I can ever be." Jan stared, dumbfounded. "I'm sorry, Des. I misjudged you. I thought you were greedy and ambitious. I was wrong. I'm sorry for your pain, Des." Des nodded. "One favour, Jan? Please, make it quick for me and Yul." Jan smiled and shook his head. "I'm not killing you, Des. I still need you. Besides, a war?" he smiled. "What better way to bring suffering?" Des looked confused before she burst out laughing. "I was wrong to, Jan. You're not half the bastard I thought you were." She stuck her hand out to shake and as Jan took it said,
"Your twice the bastard we all are."
-
Donna Leonard - Diplomat Convoy to Romulans
IRW Pevatha
Romulan Border Zone
Wow! This Romulan Ale — there's nothing like it back at home! Donna thought. As Commander Tovanus rambled on about the Romulan's culinary pieces, she started getting a little tipsy. Her heart raced slightly faster, her eyes widened, and she had a huge smile plastered on her face. She wasn't expecting a question for some time and didn't respond immediately. After a short pause, she attempted to collect herself. "Oh... yeah... well, we've got... we've got some things back on the sh... sh... ship."
She closed her eyes tightly, attempting to further collect her thoughts and sanity. What the hell am I doing? I've been given the opportunity to be the first person to meet the Romulans, and I'm blowing it sky high. I wonder what Commander Tovanus must think of me... Anyway, back to business...
Her eyelids slowly parted, her eyes filled with determination. "My! This Romulan Ale is delicious! Thank you for sharing! We did not bring much along for the ride, we do have a small selection of drinks and delicacies if you'd like a look. If all goes well, Lernaean delicacies will be here in no time! But for now... " Donna pulled out a small tablet, punched in some numbers, and pulled out a menu. "... take a look at whatever you'd like!"
Harriet Nicholson - Diplomatic Convoy to Wintreans
Monarch's spaceport, Frosthold Planet
Sector (-3, 3)
Harriet exited her ship followed by her ceremonial guards, greeted by the friendly Jarl Jensen who gave her the details on constructing an embassy. Upon receiving instructions, she relayed them to command and her workers to start moving materials and equipment towards the construction site.
Craig Smith - Diplomatic Convoy to Wintreans
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
Craig waited patiently as the Wintrean spacecraft slowly landed in the hanger. As the ramp lowered, he could see a figure step out, introducing herself as Øye. "Thank you for agreeing to meet with us on such a short notice," Øye said as she greeted the Lernaeans.
Craig nodded and responded, "Our pleasure!" trying to conceal as much of his excitement as possible. These were the original people! After exchanging pleasantries, he directed them towards a conference room and ordered up some refreshments.
Wallace White - Diplomat to Aesir
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
As Wallace relayed his news to command, he received some instructions as well. Command wanted him to see if they could construct an embassy in the Aesir Empire. He nodded to himself, picked up his tablet, and contacted Ambassador Herjall.
-
Ambassador Herjall
Protheus
Sector (-18, 1)
The architects were hard at work, and the embassy already had its foundation laid by the time Herjall got the message from Wallace. She stepped back from overseeing the construction site to write a response saying she will relay his request. She then sent a request back home to know of when Brunnhilde is instated as Jarl.
Ambassador Ulfír
Vivaldi
Sector (-12, 24)
"Whichever can be arranged first. And I'm curious about something. What would be the proper tactical response to a siege of Vivaldi? What kind of defenses do you have?"
Jarl Brunnhilde
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
Once Lundgren was back aboard her ship, Brunnhilde made her way back to the bridge, arriving just after the Science and Avonite ambassadors.
"I apologise for everything which has happened here to delay you, but rest assured your standing with the Aesir has not changed. I do request that you keep your ships in formation with mine and the Wintrean ships as we make our approach to Drekiheimr. Will this be a problem?"
-
AFS Jörmungandr
Captain Kli Waverider
Kli followed the lizards to the bridge. He arrived first to see the human arrive. He did not recognize the man and did not know who it was. The new chief lizard....head lizard...what ever, Jarl woman thing came in. Reading a lizard was not easy under the best of circumstances, Kli had no idea what was going through her head.
"Yes, that would be agreeable, I'll just tell my XO to comply with your traffic controller." A few taps on his datapad. "I was hoping to have a dialogue with you..umm... I must confess, I am at a loss as to how to address you?"
Somewhere
? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?
Knowledge....knowledge is power. 23 worlds fallen. Close to a million new fallen Avonites. But most important...knowledge. This Council... these five people... Art Marshwalker, Irk Flowchaser, Des Skyflyer, Kir Darkcloak, Jan Lightbringer.....mouthpieces.....if they could make them fall. They were the First but the rest.. the rest would fall. All fall. Yesss......Yesssssssss.......
Avonite Enclave, Outer planets, Tipfall, New West Falls
Bet Hacker
Bet looked at the carnage before him. Choas. The fuck was happening here? Tipfall was a quiet, unassuming colony. Defining characteristics, none. As boring as it got. That's why Bet loved it. Being a reporter in Tipfall was easy. Local man wins lottery...local man gets into fight....colonial governor says this....local feel good story...national news no one cares about. Easy work. This? Not so easy.....
He looked out the helicopter. Primitive form of transport but cheap at least. The town below him was another story. There was blood on the streets. Blood and.....black....ooze. People were walking...well, more like shambling, towards the town hall. He looked through his camera and zoomed in on one guy and almost immediately recoiled. Black... ooze...seeping out of his eyes, ears...nose. Skin white as snow...eyes blacked over....fissures on his skin? Spode, what the fuck was going on? He took as many pictures as he could, sending them back to his head office. They should know what to do with this....
-
Damloth, Exodite Homeworld and Capital,
Sector (-28, -3)
Keb Diden looked outside of his cell through the impact-proof reinforced glass window. Damloth, the birthplace of the Damli people and civilization as well as the capital of their interstellar empire, was a planet of incredible beauty. Canals of perfectly clear water meandered peacefully by meticulously kept gardens full of exotic flowers, expertly-crafted statues, wonderful fountains, and other works of art, all flanked by white marble roads and channels full of advanced technology. Within the cities were arenas, monasteries, bathhouses, brothels, restaurants, and all sorts of other amenities where every want could be satisfied and every need could be fulfilled, from the most sophisticated to the most base, at a moment's notice and free of charge (as merely being invited to Damloth was payment enough). In the clear blue skies, a distant constellation was visible; a grid of blinking star-like lights which could be seen even during midday. This was the network of orbital weather control stations, cleansing the planet of debris and pollution while keeping the weather calm - all by the brute force of nanobot storms and powerful solar lasers. A perfect metaphor for the stratocracy that rescued the Damli from their stagnant fate.
Such was the perfection of this planet, Keb noted with wry amusement, that even the prison cells on Damloth were downright luxurious compared to anything that he had ever seen: fine wall-to-wall decoration, a large bed made from some soft nanomaterial which felt like it was designed for comfort down to the molecule, speedy (if overly secure and terse) room service providing a menu which had everything on it but the attractive slave waitress, electronic screens on which Keb could read, listen, watch and play all sorts of diversions (whether childish, risqué, or sophisticated), toiletries with controls so complex and customizable that Keb was at first distressed by the idea of even attempting to take a shower here, and so on. Why, his prison cell even had a breathtaking view of the land, segmented as the sight was by a lattice of metal reinforcement over the already immensely thick armored glass.
Yet, imprisoned Keb was, and he did well not to forget it. For all it's luxury the Bastwaya, or "Citadel of Despair" (lovely name, that) was still a prison, for all the beauty and glory he witnessed he was still being held on Damloth against his will, and for all the "nice" treatment he was receiving he was still only here because someone high up in command, probably the Council of Seven themselves, determined Keb to be some sort of threat or that he deserved some kind of punishment. He often paced the finely-decorated carpet floor, thinking. Thinking was the only thing he could stomach doing, when every star, every flame, every electronic light suddenly felt hostile. As Keb thought and thought, he came to a few conclusions. He went over these conclusions while he sat in the shower, letting the hot water course through his lengthening black hair.
So I am alive. Good. That means I have a good chance of staying that way. But what do they want from me? Do they wish to know what I know about those damn lizards? Are they going to punish me or force me to answer for what I did to Ledif? What will become of me after these things? What will become of Damli after these things?
While he pondered these questions, the doorbell sounded through the room. Keb pressed the intercom button.
"Coming!"
He quickly got dressed and went to see what it was. A large group of soldiers and a stern-looking fleet official were waiting for him at the door. Keb closed his eyes to listen to news that he already understood:
"It is time. You have been summoned. Prepare yourself now."
-
Frosthold Castle
Frostlake City, Frosthold Planet
Sector (-3, 3)
"Sul Gravemind appears to have been murdered by a ceremonial ax. Perhaps by a vigilante?
"And the recording is from a surveillance camera. The Ecstatic was in my private spaceport at the time and appears to have been returning to the shuttle."
Romulan Occupation Command
Trilia Scientific Research Station, Wintreath
Sector (5, -6)
Dr. Lajunen continued quaking in fear.
Wintrean Diplomatic Convoy
Protheus, Allied States of Lernaea
Sector (-18, 1)
"Thank you for the refreshments," said Øye. "I'm glad that we've been able to get some diplomatic relations up and running, but Wintreath has recently experienced a serious crisis. We are now under invasion from the Acarians and Romulans."
-
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
Vivaldi Spaceport
Sector (-12, 24)
"We can go meet with the Government first, then," Mott said.
As he began making arrangements for such a meeting, he answered Ulfír's question. "As our capital, Vivaldi naturally has some of the Imperial Fleet and Army stationed here, though the majority of our defenses come from the Scientific Self-Defense Forces. We could easily field millions of troops in an initial defense to a surprise attack, a majority of them being droids, and could expand that to the billions over a longer period of time. Space defense comes from a large number of space stations, both orbiting planets and placed throughout the system, and some Fleet ships, including starfighters and drones.
"Of course, the nature of such a defense depends drastically on what is happening. In the event of a planetary blockade, for instance, we could run past the attackers and relocate government operations elsewhere while the siege continued. And with a large portion of our citizenry living and working in space, our people would not be trapped either, both in the short and long term. We would naturally defend as much as possible, but we will not rule out the obvious possibility of facing an enemy more powerful than us."
Diplomatic Mission to Aesir Empire
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-23, 14)
"Yes, that would be satisfactory," Glass responded. "We can indeed maintain formation."
-
Frosthold Planet
Admiral Ark Innsmouth
"Ax?....Ceremonial Ax...."
Ark Innsmouth but his thumb claws in his belt. Reconciliators used daggers, Vigilants used swords....only Evangelicals used axes..... and there was only one Evangelical on this trip. The rest were Ecstatics since this was not a conversion expedition. But Yul Deacon? What did he have to do with this?
"I think I know who killed Sul Gravemind, Majesty. Rest assured, he will be dealt with. An internal religious conflict, I am sure." But, with everything going on, maybe not....
"But I would like to return to the salient point. A long time ago, we were allies. We had immigration and we worked together. We still have a sizable Wintrean population in our nation, some of our highest ranking government members are Wintreans. We have had a long and prosperous relationship and we would like to begin that relationship again, since now we have a common enemy, the Romulans. We are stronger together. So I would like to propose something. How about we, The Avonite Enclave, keep an embassy ship here. The Strawberry Swing is in orbit and has a diplomatic crew, I have also been empowered to become the Ambassador to Wintreath if it will please you, admittedly, I was approved by the....previous government and the next might want to replace me but until that happens, I will continue to do my job. Would this arrangement be agreeable to you?"
-
Ambassador Ulfír
Vivaldi Spaceport
Sector (-12, 24)
"Are you not worried that some potential enemy might turn your drones against your forces?" the Ambassador asked Mott as he watched the man tap away at his device. "Surely you have some sort of failsafe for that."
Jarl Brunnhilde
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
"You may call me Jarl Brunnhilde or just by my title 'Jarl'," she told Kli as she took her place on the Captain's seat. "What is it you wish to say?"
-
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
Vivaldi Spaceport
Sector (-12, 24)
"That is of course a possibility," Mott replied. "But our drones and droids are, in general, not directly controlled. Rather, each is an artificial intelligence capable of linking together to form a supercomputer. Orders could be hacked, but the same is true for human soldiers as well, so the solution there is a focus on cybersecurity, as well as ensuring a balance between obedience and semi-independence in both our artificial and organic troops.
"Ah, there we are," he remarked as a relatively large personal transport airspeeder arrived. He motioned for Ulfír to get on.
-
Wintrean CIC
Varno System
Sector (6, -6)
Even as Løvstad brought the majority of the Wintrean forces into battle, surrounding the Acarian forces on all sides, they were still outnumbered. Not as hopelessly as the Acarians might have initially assumed, but still outnumbered.
Normally, this issue might be resolved with superior tactics, but even with the Acarians' blunder early on attempting encirclement, Løvstad did not have the advantage in that regard. He led a peacetime force, unready for war, only recently mobilized. His opponents, on the other hand, had come prepared for conquest, and had plenty of actual experience expanding their empire.
The Acarians chose to group together their ships, allowing the Wintreans to concentrate both their attacks and defenses into specific clusters. As the onslaught continued, however, the more prepared force began gaining the upper ground. As more and more Wintrean ships fell, Løvstad's mind increasingly strayed toward retreat.
"Interdiction field has dropped," a navigation officer reported.
Løvstad took a shaky breath. Of course, the Acarians had timed it perfectly, to encourage a retreat. "Order the remaining ships to destroy major major infrastructure and industrial facilities as they gather their forces and jump to pre-prepared hyperspace coordinates. We will rendezvous back at base."
I have failed, Løvstad thought to himself, as he watched the stars stretch into long bright lines. A disgrace to the Frozen Realm.
Varno Base Fé "Jungle Winter"
Varno Planet
General Matti Heiskanen sighed as he the reinforcement fleet retreated, abandoning the ground forces of the military planet to their fates. Admiral Løvstad had asked them if they'd like an orbital bombardment onto their base, to end things quickly. Heiskanen quickly refused, though he did agree to the destruction of factories, roads, and the like. Heiskanen also began ordering more destruction on a smaller scale, that the fleet could not accomplish in its hasty retreat. And, pragmatically, he also began preparing ships as blockade runners for a potential evacuation.
Now, the Hvitt Ridderal settled in for a planetwide siege.
Wintrean CIC
Dara System
Sector (6, -6)
Wilgot Eklund faced a similar dilemma to Løvstad's, though he also had the issue of minimizing civilian casualties in the ecumenopolis below. However, this Admiral's quandary was cut short when his ship's shields went down, overwhelmed by turbolaser fire. His ship, an older Frostlake-class design, still stuck to the paradigm of shield over armor, and so with the shields offline, the choices were to abandon ship or quickly be destroyed.
As the alarm began to sound and the command crew began making their way toward the lifeboats, Eklund tried to stay behind, to continue coordinating the battle as long as he could.
"The captain goes down with the—" he began to say.
"Oh, sod that nonsense, sir," the flag captain said, and dragged Eklund to the nearest lifeboat, shoving him in. "I'm the captain, I stay; you must live."
Eklund tried to get off the lifeboat, but it already ejected, hurtling towards the planet below. Seconds later, his ship, taking heavy fire and careening out of the control, broke apart. Lifeboats and debris alike fell to the planet below.
Backup Wintrean CIC
Dara System
Rear Admiral Maja Mikkelsen watched the fleet break into further chaos after the loss of their flagship. They were already taking heavy losses, but as morale quickly dropped, the Hvitt Ridderal Fleet became overwhelmed.
She ordered a retreat and jumped to hyperspace. The city planet's government, lacking any significant military forces, and wanting to prevent civilian deaths, quickly surrendered.
Frosthold Castle
Frostlake City, Frosthold Planet
Sector (-3, 3)
"Given both our respective nations' dire circumstances, that is probably the best course of action," the Monarch agreed. "I would hope for support in our new war, but perhaps that will be a decision left up to your nation's next government.
"We've transmitted information on where you can build a de facto embassy to the Strawberry Swing," the Monarch finished. "Does this sound good to you?"
-
AFS Jörmungandr
Captain Kli Waverider
Kli nodded. "Thank you very much, Jarl. The reason I wish to speak with you is twofold. First, when I met with your....predecessor, we had discussions and reached an agreement where an Avonite Embassy would be opened on your home planet. I was hoping that this agreement could be reached with you now that you are in charge."
He took a breath. This was going to be risky. "The second point is this, with your successful...ascension, what are your intentions? Specifically towards the Avonite Enclave?"
AES Murphy, In orbit around Avon
Admiral Fir Hanover
Fir had surrounded Jil Scarhealer and her fleet and was preparing for an attack when Jan Lightbringer got in touch with him, demanding he hold off the attack and wait for Jan to get to the Murphy. Fir was furious but what happened next, after Jan got to the Murphy via shuttle, really incensed him. He hailed Scarhealer and after a long talk managed to get her to agree to come onboard the Murphy for a...."discussion". Fir was sure that Jil would be executed or something but nothing. Jan had kept his word and, worse than that, he got Jac Trhpanner to come to this discussion to. Whatever this damn meeting was Fir was pissed as he walked into the meeting room.
Councilor Jan Lightbringer
Jan sat in this room with 5 people as Fir finally joined him. There was Fir Hanover, of course, Yul Deacon, Jil Scarhealer, Jac Trhpanner and Dar Malediction. As Fir took his seat, Jan began to speak.
"Thank you all for coming. I understand that this is a bit sudden but needs must, I'm afraid. I asked you all here because, as you know, chaos has gripped Avon. There was an attack of some kind by some people. We currently suspect this man..." He clicked a button on the computer beside him and a picture of a harsh looking Avonite was projected onto the wall infront of all of them. "Ryy Sharptalon, a mercenary in charge of an outfit known as the 'Talon Militia", of working with the Enemy, who are in this case..." another click and a picture of the Romulan State symbol appeared. "...the Romulan Empire. They launched a terrorist attack that claimed the life of Councilor Art Marshwalker, probably with Romulan assistance. Admiral Fir Hanover has confirmed that a Romulan Cruiser, probably from the 'Tal Shiar' or how ever you pronounce it, ship. We have also heard reports from Admiral Dac Deevader who informed us that he has engaged a Romulan Invasion fleet near our border with Kevarus."
Everyone looked at each other, shocked. Everyone knew what this meant. Jan continued, nodding.
"Yes, that is right. We are at War. For the second time in the lives of most of us we face a threat that could exterminate the Avonite people. Before, it was infighting and disunity, now it is an external threat. We must band together and defend our homeland from this invasion. We must protect Avon and the Avonite way from those that wish to destroy us. I know there are some wounds between us now...." He looked at Fir and Jil now "...and would like to address them. Jil, I know that earlier you attacked Fir's fleet and that during the chaos of the original attack Fir attacked members of your fleet..." Jil stood up and interrupted. "My fleet? It was his Fleet! As far as I know, he went mad and ordered an attack on his own fleet!" Jan raised a hand. "I know. But you must agree that it was chaos then. I promise that a full investigation will be ordered, but after we deal with this Romulan threat. And you did attack when he was engaging the Romulans. I am willing to forgive that if you are." Jil lowered her head and sat down. Jan continued. "Councilors Flowchaser and Darkcloak are missing, presumed captured by the Romulans. Councilor Des Skyflyer...." he looked at Yul. The agreement he and Skyflyer reached was still on his mind, Skyflyer would bow out of all further governance and would enjoy the 'protection' of Lightbringer and Deacon would take her place. "....was injured in the chaos and for the good of her health has stepped down from the Council. That leaves me."
He looked around at everyone assembled. "Frankly, as the sole authority figure for the Avonite Government, I can do as I please..." Jac and Jil looked a bit nervous while Fir, Yul and Dar all looked amused. They were in on it so they knew what was coming. "...and so, I have decided to fill the empty seats on the Council with all of you. I have also decided to give all of you specific roles in the Government to avoid the confusion that was a bit prevalent in the previous Council." There hadn't been but no one else knew that. Jac stood up, a look of confusion on his face "Wait, so....your making us Councilors?" Jan nodded. "Yes. A new Council. The Council of National Defense. Would you all accept this responsibility?" Yul, Dar and Fir all nodded and affirmed, they had already been aware of what was going to happen. When he had gathered his senses, Jac Trhpanner also agreed. Officially Jan told him he wanted him because of his quick thinking in leaving Believe to go to Avon but in reality it was to keep an eye on Jac in case he got suspicious. Jil hesitated. She did not trust Fir and something about Jan rubbed her the wrong way. Still, he had a point and there was the Romulan threat to consider. After a moment of thought, she nodded her consent.
Jan smiled. "Excellent. I now proclaim each of you as members of the Council of National Defense. Jac, to you I task Colonial and Industrial Affairs." Jac smiled. His brother was going to love this. "To Yul I task Religous and Internal Affairs." A good way to play to Yul's strengths and keep him busy and powerless. Yul slowly nodded. He had no choice and he knew it, not if he wanted Des to be safe. Jan had allowed Des to stay with Yul. He did not want Jan to reconsider that arrangement. "To Dar Malediction I task Foreign Affairs and the Intelligence Services." Dar had been loyal to Jan and now, after everything, was pretty complicit in what was to come. He would be a useful ally. "To Jil Scarhealer I task Commerce, Trade and Procurement." Jil's antenna raised in surprise. That was an important position. It also meant that Jan could keep a watchful eye on Jil and that she would have no direct access to the Military. " Finally, to Fir Hanover I task Defense and Military Affairs." Fir had been a traitor and was one of Skyflyers associates. His dream of rebuilding the Conclave of the People, however, was pretty dead and he knew it. Even more important, the Romulans needed to be defeated, no matter his thoughts. And since the coup had failed he needed to save himself. Pledging loyalty to Jan had done that, even if Jan made sure that he had evidence against Fir, just in case. "I will be the Prime Councilor, in charge of all things and the Representative of the Council to the world and our people. Does this meet everyone's approval?" Not a single voice in dissent. "Excellent. Now, for the first order of business."
"We sent an envoy to the Wintreath Remnant. They have expressed interest in an alliance. I propose we accept this alliance and issue a Formal Declaration of War against the Romulan Star Empire for the illegal and unprovoked invasion of our territory. Let's keep out the accusations about the terrorist attack until the investigation is concluded. All in favor?" Every hand raised. "Motion passed."
Frosthold Planet
Admiral Ark Innsmouth
Ark had agreed in his meeting with the Wintreath Monarch to the building of an embassy and promised he would relay the alliance proposal to the remainder of the Government. Later in the day, Admiral Innsmouth had sent a message to the Wintreath Capital from the Strawberry Swing.
"FROM ADMIRAL ARK INNSMOUTH, ACTING AVONITE AMBASSADOR FOR WINTREATH
TO MONARCH OF WINTREATH
AVONITE GOVERNMENT HAS REFORMED INTO THE COUNCIL OF NATIONAL DEFENSE. NEW GOVERNMENT HAS VOTED TO DECLARE WAR ON THE ROMULAN STAR EMPIRE FOR THE ILLEGAL AND UNPROVOKED INVASION OF AVONITE TERRITORY. GOVERNMENT HAS ALSO APPROVED ALLIANCE WITH WINTREATH. THE FOREIGN FLEET IS CURRENTLY MOVING TO WINTREATH TO ASSIST YOU IN YOUR FIGHT. I WILL BE TAKING COMMAND OF THE FOREIGN FLEET AND A NEW AMBASSADOR WILL BE APPOINTED. MURDERER OF SUL GRAVEMIND IN CUSTODY. WOULD YOU LIKE TO TAKE CUSTODY AND CHARGE HIM IN YOUR COURTS?
ADDENDUM: WORKING TITLE FOR THE ALLIANCE: THE REMNANT COVENANT."
Ark was unsure what happened with Sul Graveminds killer. At first, the Evangelical had denied everything. Then, a message from the Council to him and him alone arrived and suddenly he confessed to everything. A religous dispute, he claimed. Ark did not buy it for a second but really did not want open that can of worms.....
-
Pyat'sot Pervyy Journals
"The battle was chaotic, with hundreds of thousands of starfighters dogfighting. My squad managed to land within one of their capital class cruisers and blew it up from the inside. But what I remember most about the battle, was the deafening silence after Acarian forces claimed victory. However, now we would begin a large planetwide siege and battle, with the Pyat'sot Pervyy Legion at the forefront, truly testing out skills in ground assault."
Aedyn Zaegun's Fleet
Varno
Sector (6,-6)
Soon enough, Zaegun retreated into the CIC of his flagship, directing the entire fleet from there. At first, Acarian ships were taking the majority of casualties, but as the battle went on, more and more Wintreath ships fell to the experienced Acarian arms. Soon after a majority of the losses were Wintreath, Zaegun ordered a dropping of the interdiction field. He arrived at the bridge just in time to see the Wintreath fleet retreat to hyperspace. All around the crew clapped and cheered.
"Comrades, we have achieved great victory this day. You can all die knowing your descendants will be proud of your achievements. But the war is not over, we have a long way to go. But we can rest knowing in this initial stage of the war, we have control."
Soon, the fleet received notifications from the Prodvinutyy Recon Sila that Varno will not surrender and its remaining forces are preparing for a siege. Zaegun soon ordered a blockade of the planet and the commencement of a ground assault.
Aulus Vagennius Quintillius
Varno
Sector (6,-6)
Of course, the Prodvinutyy Recon Sila was first in the assault, as well as one of the most essential. Its ability for recon was most essential for a ground assault. Soon, they located a good clearing with little enemy defenses around it for the Pyat'sot Pervyy Legion to begin the main assault. They gave the signal for a MAP-D5 and other accompanying forces to land.
Filipp Nakhimov's Fleet
Dara
Sector (6,-6)
Soon, Nakhimov claimed victory with relatively few losses compared to Zaegun's fleet. With the surrender of the planet, Nakhimov claimed even greater success.
"My fellow comrades at arms, we have claimed an excellent victory for ourselves and secured a present for our people back home. We can all rest knowing that for now, the major battle is over, for now, we will control the Wintreath frontier."
Nakhimov knew this was their chance to gain as much as possible. Right now, the Wintreath forces are likely licking their wounds and rebuilding and regrouping. They must use this as much as their advantage to gain control over the Wintreath frontier. Nakhimov ordered the fleet to harbour around the planet until further orders. Till then, he made for the surface.
Government Square, seat of the Representative Democracy of Dara
Sector (6,-6)
Nakhimov soon accepted officially the surrender of the ecumenopolis. He would soon organise a garrison and decide what to do with the existing government. He would decide later that it was best to keep it in place, but under watchful eyes in case of rebellion.
But for now, Nakhimov would hold a parade in the government square, similar to the Victory Day parades of old imperial times. Soldiers and fleet crew marched in unison and a variety of music was played. At the end, "A Hero's Welcome" was played.
Treon,
Treon Military Base
Sector (7,-16)
With the successful development of the AT-AW-7e, the project was soon in the manufacturing stage, where it would start being produced in military factories across Acaria. Of course it wasn't project, but they found all that they could within the experiment phase. Now, it just needed to be tested in battle.
Treon,
Treon Shipyards
Sector (7,-16)
Thravur was developing some new blueprints, this time for smaller ships such as corvettes. They would be put into production immediately. Acaria needed a sizeable force of fast, small but well-armed ships as they would be essential to the war effort, especially once more planet sieges began.
After this, he would end up finishing his work on The Aetherius.
Acarian Interstellar Communications Military Network
Once they received word of successful space battles, they signaled to their Romulan allies that they have succeeded.
-
Ambassador Ulfír
Vivaldi Spaceport
Sector (-12, 24)
"A very interesting solution," Ulfír remarked as he boarded the airspeeder. "Should I be aware of anything before meeting with your government?"
Jarl Brunnhilde
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
"Regarding your first concern, of course you may still construct your embassy. I wouldn't deny that of you. Regarding your second concern, that depends on the intent of your leaders. I haven't heard anything about the Avonites for a long time. Perhaps you could provide me with the details I require?"
Akaz Sveigdir
Ganorr Forge World
Svartalfheim Province
Sector (-18, 13)
He did it. His "Project Dvergr" was complete. The SR-35 Dvergr battlesuit passed its final test and is being sent to the factories for replication. Akaz stood by the window and watched his creation be loaded onto the transport, allowing pride to surge through him. "Now to complete the Trebuchet project..."
-
Scientific Imperial Fleet Observation Task Force
Vivaldi Spaceport
Sector (-12, 24)
"Nothing in particular, I don't think," Mott responded. Soon, they arrived at their destination: a dignified, yet not ostentatious building. There, First Consul William Xavier awaited them.
Mott got off the airspeeder and lead the Aesir ambassador to Xavier's office, to begin negotiations.
-
From: Monarchy of Wintreath
To: Admiral Ark Innsmouth, Acting Avonite Ambassador for Wintreath
That is most excellent news.
If it is your government's desire, we will gladly take custody of the murderer, though if you prefer, the Avonite government may press charges as well. In the former case, we would appreciate any relevant information, evidence, or documents for the upcoming trial.
Excerpt from A Brief History of the Galactic Civil Wars, Ch. 23: "War Begins Anew"
The photographs, videos, and holos trickled out to the public, first slowly, then ever-faster as more and more began posting their recordings and experiences online. Billions had been witness to the surprise attacks, and even had the Ministry of Information sought to contain the event, a few leaks would be all it took for the citizenry to become informed.
The people of Wintreath watched in shock as their friends, family, and countrymen were slaughtered. Feelings of anger and betrayal spread across both the expansionist and pacifist factions alike. This was supposed to be a new age of prosperity and peace, thought the pacifists, yet their supposedly friendly neighbors had murdered billions in alleged revenge against the former galactic empire that nearly everyone was too young to remember. And for the imperialists, this attack all but cemented their belief that remilitarization and continued expansion was necessary for the security and safety of the Realm.
Whatever the individual details, the Wintreans were angry, and demanded blood.
Transcript of speech by His Royal Majesty, Wintermoot XCVIII Kestar of Wintreath
Stortingsbygningen
Frostlake City, Frosthold Planet
Sector (-3, 3)
Lord Chairman, Mr. Speaker, Skrifa and Peers, Citizens of Wintreath:
Yesterday, the Frozen Realm of Wintreath was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval forces of the United Acarian Empires and the Romulan Star Empire.
The Frozen Realm was at peace with the United Acarian Empires and the Romulan Star Empire, and was still in conversation with the Acarian government and its Emperor looking toward the maintenance of peace in the Galaxy.
Indeed, after the Acarian attacks on Wintrean systems, the Ministry of State was informed by Acarian communications that a formal declaration of war had been delivered to the Representative of the Monarch at Zuophus—one with whom we have lost contact due to Romulan signal jamming.
It will be recorded that the distance of the Core from these two empires—as well as joint Acarian-Romulan conquests of neutral planets in neutral space—makes it obvious that the attack was deliberately planned many weeks or even months ago. During the intervening time the Acarian government has deliberately sought to deceive the Frozen Realm by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace.
Yesterday, the Acarians attacked the military planet of Varno.
Yesterday, the Acarians attacked Dara, killing hundreds of millions of civilians in the resulting battle.
Yesterday, the Romulans attacked Trilia, enslaving over eighty thousand civilian researchers.
And yesterday, the Romulans unleashed a dangerous bioweapon onto the peaceful planet of Thandio, massacring all organic life on the planet—including over nine billion Wintrean civilians.
The Acarians and Romulans have therefore undertaken a surprise offensive extending throughout two sectors in the southern Core area, and committing crimes against sapients in the process. The facts of yesterday and today speak for themselves. Wintrean citizens, people who have joined our Realm of their own free will, lay dead by these two so-called empires. The people of Wintreath have already formed their opinions and well understand the implications to the very life and safety of our nation.
As Commander-in-Chief of the Army and Navy I have directed that all measures be taken for our defense, that always will our whole nation remember the character of the onslaught against us.
No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the Wintrean people, in their righteous might, will win through to absolute victory!
I believe that I interpret the will of the Storting and of the people when I assert that we will not only defend ourselves to the uttermost but will make it very certain that this form of treachery and genocide shall never again endanger us.
Hostilities exist. There is no blinking at the fact that our people, our territory and our interests are in grave danger.
With confidence in our armed forces, with the unbounding determination of our people, we will gain the inevitable triumph.
In the past, I have sought to bring peace to the galaxy, paving a road for official recognition of our fellow nation-states. The Acarians and Romulans have betrayed our nation's trust, taking advantage of our openness to massacre billions of peaceful Wintrean civilians. Therefore, these two organizations are not deserving of official recognition as sovereign states, and thus of an official declaration of war!
I ask that the Storting declare that since the unprovoked and dastardly attack by the Romulans and Acarians, a state of extended military conflict has existed between the Frozen Realm of Wintreath and the two nonstate entities known as the United Acarian Empires and the Romulan Star Empire, and to authorize the full use of Wintrean military force against their paramilitary groups and illegally held territories.
Zone B-96, The Agricultural District
Dara Planet
Sector (6, -6)
The escape pod landed. Admiral Eklund and the troops that had come with him exited the lifeboat, looking around. Giant towers surrounded him, with hydroponics and carniculture visible within them. They quickly found shelter within them, establishing a temporary base within a vertical farm. Tapping into the military communications infrastructure before it was too late, they linked up with the other surviving lifeboats and Army personnel that had refused to surrender. Together, they'd try to make the Acarians' life on Dara as hellish as possible.
Varno Base Fé "Jungle Winter"
Varno Planet
Sector (6, -6)
The Acarian forces began landing. General Heiskanen knew immediately that they could not win in a conventional battle. Those who wished to try to leave began evacuating in the blockade runners, while the rest dispersed into the tropical rainforest to prepare for guerrilla warfare.
-
AES Strawberry Swing, Frosthold Planet
Admiral Ark Innsmouth
To: Monarch Of Wintreath
From:Acting Avonite Ambassador for Wintreath Admiral Ark Innsmouth
I leave the matter of Sul Gravemind's murderer to you. Any and all information will be passed to your authorities.
The Avonite Foreign Fleet will be present in 1 day, ready to deploy at your behest. A point of clarification at this time, the Council Of National Defense has not issued a declaration of war against the United Acarian Empire, only the Romulans and as such, Avonite High Command will only authorize actions against the Romulans at this time.
Ambassador that is taking over for me will be Ambassador Pal Triton.
Evangelical Did Pursuer
It would be simple, Yul said. Just some surveillance. Peace of mind. For the Commonwealth and Spode. Then came to order to murder Sul Gravemind. How was he supposed to escape with so little time to prepare? Then came the last instruction. Did still had it in his hand. 'Confess to everything except my involvement. Spode will reward you in the afterlife. Yul Deacon." Fuck him. Now he was a councilor, apparently. Did was no fool, he knew something was up. He had his suspicions. But with no evidence would anyone believe him?
Avon, Avonite Enclave
Prime Councilor Jan Lightbringer
Jan sat at his office char, reading the report. Admiral Deevader had engaged Romulans but details were still scarce from a communication problem. It should be cleared up soon. The cameraman poked out from behind the camera and gave a thumbs up to Jan. "Ready in 5 seconds, Sir." He counted down from 5 until the red light indicated that he was recording. Jan's first transmission as the Prime Councilor to the people of Avon.
"Good afternoon, my fellow Avonites. I'm Jan Lightbringer. Over the past few days, as some of you know, there has been chaos in the capital. Avon. An attack of unprecedented proportions." A pause for that to sink in to the viewers. "After some tense and chaotic moments, the Government has finally managed to regain control of our capital. Unfortunately, there have been casualties. Casualties among the population, among the brave armed forces that valiantly defended the capital and among the police who stood firm against the terrorists that attacked us. But there were also casualties among the Council." He turned to look at the rest of the new Council. Dar, Yul and Fir were stoic while Jac and Jil looked a bit unhappy about what was coming next.
"Councilor Art Marshwalker was killed in the chaos. He will be sorely missed." No one needed to know about the android. That program would now be quietly scrapped. "Councilor Des Skyflyer was injured and will be leaving her position to recover from her wounds. We wish her a speedy recovering and pray for her." Jan squeezed his hands. Now the difficult part. "Councilors Irk Flowchaser and Kir Darkcloak are currently missing. We are trying to find them and are doing everything in our power to return them to us safely." Sure he was. "I know what you must be thinking. Who shall lead us now? Have no fear. I, Councilor Jan Lightbringer, by the power vested in me being the only remaining member of the Avonite Transitional Government, have formed a new government, the Council of National Defense. We will lead our people out of this chaos and strife. The members are myself, Yul Deacon, Dar Malediction, Fir Hanover, Jil Scarhealer and Jac Trhpanner. This is only for the time being until such a point where we can safely say that we are out of danger and can begin to rebuild our nation. Unfortunately, there is another problem. We have investigated and through the tireless efforts of the Avonite Police we have determined the culprits responsible for this chaos."
He paused for a second. "The Romulan Star Empire did this to us. They launched an invasion during the chaos that was beaten back by our loyal and capable soldiers. We have also determined that Romulan agitators were responsible for the assassination of Art Marshwalker and for the terrorist attack on our capital. This cannot go unanswered and I promise you, my fellow Avonites, that it will not be. We will avenge our people. We will go to war against the Romulans for what they have done."
Jan smiled. He could see it now. The fire in Jac Trhpanner's eyes. The anger. An anger that would be shared by the entire Avonite People now. The drums of war would beat again. Perfect.
AFS Jörmungandr
Captain Kli Waverider
Kli tilted his head. "We are currently suffering a period of mild instability. As far as I am aware, there was an attack on our capital earlier and details are unfortunately scarce. However...." He was interrupted by his aide passing a datapad to him. "Excuse me a second, Jarl." He read from the datapad and was shocked. A new government led by Jan Lightbringer? War with the Romulans?
"I apologize, Jarl. There has apparently been a Government change in my nation with a new Council leading us, the Council of National Defense. We have also declared war on the Romulan Star Empire and have brokered a temporary alliance with the Wintreath Remnant. As you can see, we are in no position to threaten you currently. So, I ask again Jarl, what are your intentions for the Avonite Enclave?"
-
Bridge Communications Records
IRW Venator Stellarum
Under Avonian Ocean, Avonite Enclave
Commander Gela was furious. In order to conceal themselves further and keep their information intact, she had ordered the Stellarum underwater while cloaked and artificially adjusting the apparent mass of her vessel to equalize that of water with the warp drive, in order to exponentially increase the difficulty of the Avonite fleet finding her ship. They were now on course to SHACom.
"Doctor, cross reference our medical database containing alien physiology with what you can pick up on Avonite medical frequencies and try to figure out some way to wipe that damn religious nut."
She paused, "On another note, can I speak to Darkcloak yet!?"
"Commander, the Councillor is coming to."
"I shall be in the medical bay shortly then. Gela out."
She then stormed off to the medical bay, leaving Centurion Fedral in command of the bridge.
Orbit, Yenyria
Headquarters for Project Pollentia
Deyrora System, Romulan Star Empire
Captain Jayaren turned from the main bridge, and opened a holographic communication with Lemarak.
"Director, we have reached Yenyria. Shall I commence docking operations with the Hedron?"
The miniature of Director Lemarak smiled, "Indeed. You may immediately."
Lemarak deactivated the holoprojector and turned to Dr. Lajunen.
"Now, Dr. Lajunen, what exactly is your specialty, and why do you think I might have brought you here to Special Weapons Development Command?"
Orbit above Thandio 2
Thandio System
Sector (5, -6)
Fleet Praetor Relatrex received the success broadcast from the Acarian fleet, and began deploying Romulan fleets in task force configuration further into Remnant space, primarily for raiding operations and to take advantage of any opportunities that arose, with the 5th Sector Fleet of the 2nd Imperial Navy in reserve, as was usual in his operational tactics.
He also notified the 3rd and 4th Imperial Navies that they could safely move forward and commit to operations level manoeuvres on the front and permanently join Remant Theater Command.
Romulan High Command
Romulus, Romulan Star Empire
Upon hearing of the Avonite Enclave's war declaration, High Praetor Demera assigned and dispatched the entirety of the 5th Romulan Navy to deal with the Avonite threat, under the command of Fleet Praetor Magistus.
Communications Records
IRW Pevatha
Romulan Border Zone
Commander Tovanus, delighted to be able to try new, alien beverages and culinary creations (to a degree rather atypical for a Romulan) quickly ordered several dishes off of the menu for himself and his command staff to try.
"This is truly delightful! I am sure that the Romulan Star Empire would be very willing to establish diplomatic relations and trade agreements with the Allied States of Lernaea!" Tovanus boomed.
"Might I suggest that we alter course for these coordinates whilst we continue this delightful cultural exchange?"
He pressed a button on his personal holoprojector, and it projected the entire Empire on the screen, with a bright green dot flashing over Systema Imperatoris, the Romulan Capital System...
-
Ambassador Ulfír
Vivaldi
Sector (-12, 24)
The ambassador travelled through the building to the office space, looking around to take in his environment and memorize his way there and back. Upon entering the office, Ulfír saluted Xavier in the classic Aesir style. "Well met, First Consul."
Jarl Brunnhilde
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
"Given your current alliance with Wintreath and enemy being the backstabbing Romulans, I will offer support in any way I can. I've already sent a fleet of several thousand ships to aid Wintreath in their defense. Are there any other concerns?"
-
AFS Jörmungandr
Captain Kli Waverider
Kli nodded his head and smiled, his spinespikes lowering. "That would really be the extent of my questions, thank you, Jarl. I will be heading back to Drekhimir to establish the Avonite Embassy there. Thank you for your time, Jarl." And with that, Kli took 3 steps back and left.
AES Strawberry Swing, Frosthold Planet
Admiral Ark Innsmouth
The Foreign Fleet had arrived. And with them, the new ambassador to Wintreath, Pal Triton. Triton was smiling as he entered Ark's office. "Ark, my old friend! How are you?" Triton extended his left hand, conscious to avoid bringing attention to the missing finger on Ark's right hand. It was always a sore spot for Ark. "I'm good, Pal. This entire assignment has been one big calamity after another. I'm just glad I'm going somewhere more suited to my talents." Pal laughed. "Ah, yes, off to fight, eh? You never felt quite at home unless someone was trying to kill you." Pal's face adopted a more serious expression as he looked to the view screen that showed Wintreath. "War, huh? Just when we had peace..." Ark looked down. "Maybe this time things will be different." Pal looked him straight in the face. "So you really believe that, Ark?" Ark remained silent. Pal sighed and continued. "Ah well. I have the diplomatic ship that will serve as our embassy, the Entente. I just wanted to say good bye, old friend, and please, come back safe." Pal turned to leave. "To many Avonites have died already."
AES Entente, Frosthold Planet
Ambassador Pal Triton
As soon as Pal reached the Entente, a message was relayed to the Wintreath Government.
To: Monarch's Office, Wintreath
From: Office of the Avonite Ambassador, AES Entente
Greetings! I am Ambassador Pal Triton, taking over for Admiral Ark Innsmouth. As the representative of the Avonite Government, I wish to extend my deepest condolences for the losses you have sustained in the war so far. As your new ally, we pledge that any and all support required of us will be made available if you desire. The Avonite Foreign fleet has been made available to you as well and await your orders. They are at your disposal. We also hope a more formal declaration of alliance can be signed as soon as possible. Thank you and good speed.
Pal Triton
IRW Venator Stellarum,Under Avonian Ocean, Avonite Enclave
Transitional Councilor Kir Darkcloak
Kir awoke, groggy and unclear. Where was she? What happened? Last thing she remembered was falling, then.... nothing. She began to sit up, mind still in a fog. She turned to the nearest figure. "What happened?"
? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?
Knowledge was power and the knowledge it was receiving was excellent. War..... War was always good. Time to make an appearance to the entire Avonite nation. Yesss..... yessss.....
AES War's Harbinger, Southern Avonite Border
Admiral Dac Deevader
"We are expecting an imminent invasion of our lands by the Romulans. We have no idea how large their fleet is or when they will get here. Considering the distance between our two nations, it may be some time before they get here but we will beat them just like we beat their first invasion fleet!" Cheers came from the bridge crew as Deevader finished. The prisoners from that Romulan fleet were being sent to Avon and the remaining ships they surrendered in, after their crews were evacuated, were destroyed. War was returning to the Avonite people....
-
Residence of the First Consul
Vivaldi
Sector (-12, 24)
Xavier gave a bow in return. "Welcome to Science, Ambassador."
After some small talk, he said, "I believe you're here to establish an embassy. Is there anything besides that you'd like to discuss?"
-
Ambassador Ulfír
Residence of the First Consul
Vivaldi
Sector (-12, 24)
"I will not lie to you. Our empire is still rebuilding lost infrastructure, and many agriculture worlds are still too tainted to grow food on. Available food is being rationed as best as we can ration it, but families are still going hungry. If there's any way your people could help speed up the process of recovery, it would be very much appreciated."
Jarl Brunnhilde
AFS Jörmungandr
Sector (-16, 14)
The Jarl watched the Avonite withdraw from the room in the odd fashion then exhaled the breath she realized she had been holding in. "The insectoids are so... different..." she stated. "Of all the Xenos in the galaxy, I believe they are the most foreign. But regardless, I'm glad you're here, Ambassador. Your embassy request is approved of. Are there any more concerns you have?"
-
Residence of the First Consul
Vivaldi
Sector (-12, 24)
"Our agricultural infrastructure is not immediately prepared to perform mass exportation of foodstuffs," said Xaiver in response. "That said, if we can set up an agreement, the Democratic Empire can certainly begin scaling up on agricultural production to send to the Aesir.
"We can also send construction droids, as well as engineers, architects, and such, to help your own in the rebuilding process."
-
Orbit, Yenyria
Headquarters for Project Pollentia
Deyrora System, Romulan Star Empire
"I'm a glaciologist," said Lajunen. "I study natural ice formations. In particular, I was observing the natural, largely undisturbed trends in glacial formation and movement in Trilia and comparing it with Frosthold to gain a greater understanding of sapient impact on ice worlds."
She thought for a moment. "No, I have no clue why you brought me here. If you wanted to weaponize glaciers, I'm not exactly the person with the most expertise."
From: Monarch of Wintreath, Frosthold Castle
To: Office of the Avonite Ambassador, AES Entente
Thank you. Our legislators are currently in the process of repealing isolationist legislation. Once that is complete, our diplomats can meet to negotiate a formal alliance.
Our fleets are currently falling back from combined Romulan-Acarian onslaught in Sectors (5, -6) and (6, -6). If possible, we request that the Avonie Foreign Fleet travel south to aid in the defense against Romulan forces.
Wintermoot XCVIII, Monarch of the Frozen Realm of Wintreath
Zone B-96, The Agricultural District
Dara Planet
Sector (6, -6)
"So that's the plan. Strike while they're still busy getting their garrison fully set up..."