A Most Wonderful Intrusion (PMT/FT, CLOSED, INVITE ONLY)

[The Second Brotherhood of Planets]

4 lightyears away from Phi Eridani System

The Starship Llanvabon flung itself through space, oblivious to the shower of rocks and ice that slammed against its shields. Its support fleet flew along obediently, one of them hailed her captain as the entire squadron came to a stop.

"Captain Goodwinson, I question the wisdom behind this decision. We are rather far away from home and, though this system is not far from Sol in Realspace, Hyperspace makes the journey unpleasant. The establishment of a colony out here in the boonies would bring possible disaster, as help would take weeks to arrive. Weeks! Command felt Beta Leporis was a risky place to set up a military complex, they would certainly think twice about sending help out here."

Senior Captain Priscilla Goodwinson, Commanding officer of the Dreadnought Llanvabon sighed at the Captain of the only Seedship in her support fleet. "I understand your concerns, Captain Obvi, but this colony would also be consequently far away enough that we could encourage self-sufficiency among its populace. We need a contingency in case the Orz return, and this colony would be one of the first to help establish a home away from home. If we kept one Aker-class Gate Dreadnought in this system we'd be able to ship all sorts of luxuries from the Core Worlds here with little effort. It would hardly be difficult to make ourselves comfortable here."

Obvi saluted, and the transmission was cut.

Edge of the Phi Eridani System, BPS Llanvabon, Battle Bridge

As the Llanvabon and her escorts jumped into the system, scans revealed various artificial satellites around the main planet.

"Captain, the few bio scan sweeps have revealed something troubling. There are humans in this sector. Humans are a most troubling lot, though we both have seen many reasonable ones, we have also seen many more ones who have tried to kill us once they've spotted us."

"Oh hush, VX, have you forgotten that we received our briefing from Fleet Admiral Petrarch? He's human, is he not?"

"Well, yes, but he is also one of our Comrades. The TEC are also Human. The Alliance of "Free" Stars is also human. Both those factions have shown us just how friendly humans can be, have they not?" VX-143, Goodwinson's First Officer, scoffed as he glanced back at the panel showing the results of their findings. Life seemed to evolve similar to that on Sol in this star system, and that troubled him. Because much like the humans who demonstrated their dominance over other life by oppressing and exploiting it, the humans of Phi Eridani might very well do the same.

"Well, don't judge them before we actually have a chance to meet them."

"Hmph. Regardless, they seem to have no discernable colonies off of their homeworld. Why don't we pay them a visit? I am detecting vast deposits of ore on their moon. We should start appropriating those resources."

"We are short on raw materials. Make it so."

[Maximus Victor Reborn]

Aboard The Victor I Orbital Space Station, Imperial Admiral Klaus Rutherford answers his emergency line, "I want the entire station at full battle readiness. All men to their posts. Send word to Imperopolis immediately. Signal the fleet to form a defensive perimeter around the station."

*Victor I is the sole orbital station in the system of Maximus Victor consisting of one planet and moon. Victor I serves as the first phase of Victorian expansion off planet. The station is protected by a relatively small defense fleet consisting of 3 capital ships and accompanying fighters. Alarms sound as the militaristic civilization hails the approaching ship with strict urgency.*

"Unidentified alien vessel. You are entering territory of The Empire of Maximus Victor Reborn. Establish communications and cease and desist your current courses or we will be forced to treat you as hostile."

*Admiral Rutherford, wiped the sweat from his brow as he looked at the screens showing foreign alien ships. It would be untrue to say that he had never been in a dangerous situation. However, he was confident that with Maximus Victor's recent lack of contact with other civilizations there were more to these strangely shaped vessels then he cared to test. As he awaited word from the Emperor, he knew he would have no option but to fire if pushed. While he was confident they couldn't win an engagement, he was equally sure that survival would be more harshly punished by the Emperor than death.*

[The Second Brotherhood of Planets]

Aboard The Victor I Orbital Space Station, Imperial Admiral Klaus Rutherford answers his emergency line, "I want the entire station at full battle readiness. All men to their posts. Send word to Imperopolis immediately. Signal the fleet to form a defensive perimeter around the station."

*Victor I is the sole orbital station in the system of Maximus Victor consisting of one planet and moon. Victor I serves as the first phase of Victorian expansion off planet. The station is protected by a relatively small defense fleet consisting of 3 capital ships and accompanying fighters. Alarms sound as the militaristic civilization hails the approaching ship with strict urgency.*

"Unidentified alien vessel. You are entering territory of The Empire of Maximus Victor Reborn. Establish communications and cease and desist your current courses or we will be forced to treat you as hostile."

*Admiral Rutherford, wiped the sweat from his brow as he looked at the screens showing foreign alien ships. It would be untrue to say that he had never been in a dangerous situation. However, he was confident that with Maximus Victor's recent lack of contact with other civilizations there were more to these strangely shaped vessels then he cared to test. As he awaited word from the Emperor, he knew he would have no option but to fire if pushed. While he was confident they couldn't win an engagement, he was equally sure that survival would be more harshly punished by the Emperor than death.*

BPS Llanvabon, Battle Bridge

Goodwinson cursed as the audio transmission wailed through her ship's speakers. There were at least two Scout Cruisers in the squadron! Were their sensors malfunctioning? How could they not have seen the starbase?!

As if he were reading her thoughts, VX grinned sheepishly. "Captain, one of the satellites did seem larger than normal."

"Tell Captain Gorkish that if he hopes to enjoy the company of his hatchlings and not force himself to dig out of a mountain of paperwork back at base, he will have to give me a full accounting of what we're dealing with."

"Yes, Ma'am."

The Llanvabon came to a complete stop, with all support vessels flying around her in a defensive formation. At 17 kilometers long this Tiandao Class Dreadnought was one of the prizes of the Brotherhood Defense Force. Losing her was unthinkable.

After Captain Gorkish of the Scout Cruiser Ever Vigilant reported his findings, Goodwinson ordered the entire squadron to raise shields. Then she chose to hail the imposing presence of the foreign starbase.

"This is Senior Captain Priscilla Goodwinson of the Starship Llanvabon. Hello, fellow Carbon creatures! We are surprised, yet overjoyed to see that you have quite a presence here in your home star. We are, um, explorers from distant stars. We come to seek out new life and new civilizations, and it is most pleasant that we've finally found one!" She tried to smile as widely as she could, yet her pale, glowing eyes betrayed the fact that she was not human.

With most of her bridge being either of the Advent or Androsynth peoples, humans would probably think they were no different from them. The latter would hate to admit it but they'd be right. As for the former, well, the Advent did not call themselves Homo psychicae for nothing!

[Maximus Victor Reborn]

"Admiral?"

"What is it now, Schumer?"

"The Black Hand has convened and is demanding you brief them on the situation."

"Connect them immediately!"

*Nervously adjusting his uniform the screen displays the throne room in Imperopolis. The High Throne currently vacant, 'What a relief, thought Rutherford,' however not far from the last of the steps ascending to the Emperor's throne sat a solid black marble table with five seats. Two on each side and one facing away from him. The Listener was the only member of the Black Hand who could look at the Emperor during their sessions. The meetings had become very ritualized in a very short amount of time. Speakers Caius, Albert, Victoria, and Reman stared at him from underneath their ceremonial wear.*

"What is the situation, Admiral?"

*Admiral Rutherford couldn't help but feel flustered as the entire Black Hand watched him with growing impatience and simultaneously his communication officer informed him of the response. He almost didn't believe what he was seeing when he glared at the non-human lifeform speaking to him. While Victorians were not inherently intolerant, he couldn't deny that his first encounter with a non-human being gave him chills. And as for the Black Hand...*

"Admiral, are you under the impression that the Black Hand operates on your time schedule? You are to establish communication with these trespassers and to update us by the time the Listener arrives." *Transmission ended*

*'Oh great,' thought Rutherford, the only thing that he disliked more than having the attention of the Black Hand, was being their topic of discussion behind closed doors. 'I'll need to salvage this situation some how...'*

*Turning his attention to the outside communication.*

"I apologize, Captain. You'll forgive our surprise, there has not been an incursion into our system by a fleet of this...particular makeup in any records I am familiar with. My superiors extend to me the right to offer a portion of your command crew passage to this station where we may discuss in greater detail your purpose and what our nations may potentially offer one another. I am sending you the appropriate docking information now."

*With one problem escalading Rutherford proceeded to turn his attention back to the Black Hand. If he could handle the situation himself then perhaps...*

"It is done then. Speaker Caius will be docking shortly to meet with these representatives." *End transmission*

"Dammit..."

[Maximus Victor Reborn]

*The Speakers all simultaneously rose and sat with the arrival of the Listener. He looked at the three Speakers and the empty seat daring an explanation.*

"Listener, just minutes ago an alien fleet arrived in system. We were able to establish communications, and Speaker Caius has gone on station to meet with their leaders. I believe the Emperor should be..."

"I, and I alone, will decide at which point we will need to involve the Emperor. As it stands, he is aware of the situation. You will contact Admiral Rutherford and explain to him that he is to remain at full battle readiness in the event of hostile action. There is no reason for this situation to become a crisis. We will see if these beings are reasonable."

"Listener, we need to address the increasing likelihood that these aliens are utilizing greater technology than we are. In the event of hostilities it seems unlikely from our scans that..."

"Never suggest that inferiority is an excuse Speaker Victoria. I would destroy this entire system before I lost it, I am quite confident we are capable of that."

[The Second Brotherhood of Planets]

"Admiral?"

"What is it now, Schumer?"

"The Black Hand has convened and is demanding you brief them on the situation."

"Connect them immediately!"

*Nervously adjusting his uniform the screen displays the throne room in Imperopolis. The High Throne currently vacant, 'What a relief, thought Rutherford,' however not far from the last of the steps ascending to the Emperor's throne sat a solid black marble table with five seats. Two on each side and one facing away from him. The Listener was the only member of the Black Hand who could look at the Emperor during their sessions. The meetings had become very ritualized in a very short amount of time. Speakers Caius, Albert, Victoria, and Reman stared at him from underneath their ceremonial wear.*

"What is the situation, Admiral?"

*Admiral Rutherford couldn't help but feel flustered as the entire Black Hand watched him with growing impatience and simultaneously his communication officer informed him of the response. He almost didn't believe what he was seeing when he glared at the non-human lifeform speaking to him. While Victorians were not inherently intolerant, he couldn't deny that his first encounter with a non-human being gave him chills. And as for the Black Hand...*

"Admiral, are you under the impression that the Black Hand operates on your time schedule? You are to establish communication with these trespassers and to update us by the time the Listener arrives." *Transmission ended*

*'Oh great,' thought Rutherford, the only thing that he disliked more than having the attention of the Black Hand, was being their topic of discussion behind closed doors. 'I'll need to salvage this situation some how...'*

*Turning his attention to the outside communication.*

"I apologize, Captain. You'll forgive our surprise, there has not been an incursion into our system by a fleet of this...particular makeup in any records I am familiar with. My superiors extend to me the right to offer a portion of your command crew passage to this station where we may discuss in greater detail your purpose and what our nations may potentially offer one another. I am sending you the appropriate docking information now."

*With one problem escalading Rutherford proceeded to turn his attention back to the Black Hand. If he could handle the situation himself then perhaps...*

"It is done then. Speaker Caius will be docking shortly to meet with these representatives." *End transmission*

"Dammit..."

"They are flustered." VX grinned. "I wonder if we should ask Chief of Security Gawwk Awwk to greet them. It will certainly color their perceptions of the many sapients in our galaxy."

"There is no need to antagonize them, Number One. If you'd like, you can stay here, and I will ask some of our human colleagues to accompany me on this trip."

"I must agree." AR-15, Science Officer on the Llanvabon, spoke as he rose from his chair. "You have to admit, Captain VX, that our people are not exactly the most endearing towards humans. Many of us, like yourself, still see them as the slavers that they most certainly can be. But if we had our human comrades speak to them, alongside our Captain, perhaps they would be less unnerved. Sending a Yehat or Mukitan Comrade would no doubt terrify them."

"Even if the Mukitans and Yehat eat similar food, appreciate similar music, and otherwise share similar psychology? What big-"

"They are unaware of how our peoples coexist. They do not know how life has developed similarly across the stars. We are dealing with a version of ourselves that never ventured beyond Earth. Thus, we cannot react to their ignorance as we would towards a Cardassian commander."

"Very well. I will bring along a datapad for them to look over. Hmn, Jim from Accounting and Dana from Athletics would be good candidates, they both know how things work around here. But I guess I will need to bring along our other diplomat." Goodwinson nodded.

"Envoy Kim may be overly eager, but he will no doubt try to present us in a positive light towards these people." AR-15 pointed out.

"I will take all of them with me, then. Number One, you have the bridge. See you soon." Goodwinson gathered her team, along with a pair of Fire Warriors for protection, and approached the airlock. The smooth, firm, human body of Dana Krieg, one of the ship's Yoga instructors, and a pair of human males would accompany their Advent captain and bodyguards as they entered the foreign human starbase.

[Maximus Victor Reborn]

*Admiral Rutherford stood in the docking bay well before docking procedures initiated. He wanted to make a good first impression, certainly let these aliens know that punctuality and courtesy were extended by his nation. He assembled his chief officers and several lines of marines to form an appropriate welcoming party. Speaker Caius arrived much more discreetly and flat out refused to wait in the docking bay. He had already taken to one of the many conference rooms and was prepared to be the one waiting.*

"Alright men! When the ambassadors arrive you are to show them every courtesy. I want NONE of you to react in any way to any foreign customs, looks, scents, expressions...or mannerisms you might be unfamiliar with. We are making history today gentlemen, embarrassment will be punished."

*It wasn't customary for Rutherford to threaten his men, his reputation was built off the opposite. He couldn't deny he was unprepared for today's events however, how much more his men weren't he could only guess.*

[The Second Brotherhood of Planets]

*Admiral Rutherford stood in the docking bay well before docking procedures initiated. He wanted to make a good first impression, certainly let these aliens know that punctuality and courtesy were extended by his nation. He assembled his chief officers and several lines of marines to form an appropriate welcoming party. Speaker Caius arrived much more discreetly and flat out refused to wait in the docking bay. He had already taken to one of the many conference rooms and was prepared to be the one waiting.*

"Alright men! When the ambassadors arrive you are to show them every courtesy. I want NONE of you to react in any way to any foreign customs, looks, scents, expressions...or mannerisms you might be unfamiliar with. We are making history today gentlemen, embarrassment will be punished."

*It wasn't customary for Rutherford to threaten his men, his reputation was built off the opposite. He couldn't deny he was unprepared for today's events however, how much more his men weren't he could only guess.*

First to appear out of the airlock was Krieg herself. Years of practice in Yoga and the fact that she was still 34 years of age meant that she would certainly have the appearance of a rather athletic, it not attractive, woman. Envoy Reginald Kim emerged next, alongside Jim from Accounting, who adjusted his spectacles. Senior Captain Priscilla Goodwinson strolled out of the airlock herself, with both Fire Warriors flanking her. The sight of laspistols holstered on the three humans who emerged first would no doubt demonstrate that none of the diplomatic party was defenseless.

The fact that all of them were humanoid, three of them being of the same species as the people welcoming them, would probably help the Victorians be at ease.

Goodwinson spoke first. "It is an honor meeting you, Admiral. It is rather heartening that you have invited us on such short notice." She offered her hand for a handshake, assuming that the humans here would keep similar customs to the ones on Earth. She gestured towards Reginald: "My colleague here is an Envoy for the Brotherhood of Planets, our nation forged from a combination of many peoples, many species of sapient life. We are interested in trade and the exchange of material goods, as our currencies are probably rather incompatible at the moment." She chuckled.

When some of the Victorians seemed to indicate that the Speaker was in another room, Reginald started to nudge his captain. "Shall we proceed?" He stammered rather enthusiastically.

[Maximus Victor Reborn]

*Admiral Rutherford crisply shook the extended hand.*

"On behalf of the Black Hand I am honored to welcome you to Orbital Station Victor I. Please follow me to meet with Speaker Caius."

*Briskly exiting the docking bay, Admiral Rutherford led the individuals to a lift which took them up to the highest point of the station. Along the way, Admiral Rutherford made light conversation with the Captain and Krieg.*

"The Black Hand operates as the Emperor's advisory council. They convene to discuss matters of state and present the information to the Emperor. There are four Speakers and one Listener. Each Speaker operates with equal authority and you may trust they represent the Emperor's personal opinions and interests. There are no particular customs you need observe, and the only title they go by is Speaker. Speaker Caius is the oldest member of the Black Hand. He's a very traditional man, but he's nothing if not convinced the universe is something to be embraced not ignored. Ah, here we are."

*Walking into the room first he abruptly kneels before the Speaker who stands behind his chair at a long table. The room itself is spacious and walled in transparent material giving a very realistic feeling of being in space itself. Speaker Caius stands dressed not in his ritual robes, but in a simple black suit. Admiral Rutherford couldn't quite reconcile the difference in appearance from about an hour prior. This warmly smiling elderly man seemed to be the opposite of the intimidating figure transmitting earlier. Speaker Caius moves to shake the hands of the Captain.*

"Captain, welcome to Victor I. I am Caius of the Empire of Maximus Victor Reborn, Speaker of the Black Hand. In the name of His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Maximus Victor, first of his name, I welcome you. You must forgive any surprise you've been treated with, knowledge of non-human species is not common and other civilizations are tracked only by the government. We are a civilization rebuilding. However, let me not burden you with such difficulties, this is your support staff?"

[The Second Brotherhood of Planets]

*Admiral Rutherford crisply shook the extended hand.*

"On behalf of the Black Hand I am honored to welcome you to Orbital Station Victor I. Please follow me to meet with Speaker Caius."

*Briskly exiting the docking bay, Admiral Rutherford led the individuals to a lift which took them up to the highest point of the station. Along the way, Admiral Rutherford made light conversation with the Captain and Krieg.*

"The Black Hand operates as the Emperor's advisory council. They convene to discuss matters of state and present the information to the Emperor. There are four Speakers and one Listener. Each Speaker operates with equal authority and you may trust they represent the Emperor's personal opinions and interests. There are no particular customs you need observe, and the only title they go by is Speaker. Speaker Caius is the oldest member of the Black Hand. He's a very traditional man, but he's nothing if not convinced the universe is something to be embraced not ignored. Ah, here we are."

*Walking into the room first he abruptly kneels before the Speaker who stands behind his chair at a long table. The room itself is spacious and walled in transparent material giving a very realistic feeling of being in space itself. Speaker Caius stands dressed not in his ritual robes, but in a simple black suit. Admiral Rutherford couldn't quite reconcile the difference in appearance from about an hour prior. This warmly smiling elderly man seemed to be the opposite of the intimidating figure transmitting earlier. Speaker Caius moves to shake the hands of the Captain.*

"Captain, welcome to Victor I. I am Caius of the Empire of Maximus Victor Reborn, Speaker of the Black Hand. In the name of His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Maximus Victor, first of his name, I welcome you. You must forgive any surprise you've been treated with, knowledge of non-human species is not common and other civilizations are tracked only by the government. We are a civilization rebuilding. However, let me not burden you with such difficulties, this is your support staff?"

Goodwinson bowed reverently. "Indeed, Speaker. This is Reginald Kim, one of our Envoys and perhaps the man most suited to speak on our Government's behalf." She gestured towards Kim, who bowed as well. "To my right is Dana Krieg, she is very familiar with many Brotherhood customs and could easily explain the various physiological nuances among our multi-species crew. She is not a physician, but she is someone who helps the crew perform healthy calisthenics and exercise. You can imagine how difficult that can be when some of our crewmen are invertebrates. The bespectacled individual is Jim, and he will explain more economic and material concerns. Finally..." Goodwinson waved a hand towards the two fire warriors, who immediately snapped to attention. "Those two represent some of the disciplined soldiers within the Brotherhood, and will perform their protective duties during this meeting."

[Maximus Victor Reborn]

"Please sit. Admiral you may sit at my right here. Captain, please sit your men wherever. I suppose you must have questions, what is your nation's protocol when coming into contact with other sentient beings? Your ships appear quite large and I am venturing to assume that this fleet is a colonization effort. I will assume then that your people are not aware of the Empire?"

[The Second Brotherhood of Planets]

"Please sit. Admiral you may sit at my right here. Captain, please sit your men wherever. I suppose you must have questions, what is your nation's protocol when coming into contact with other sentient beings? Your ships appear quite large and I am venturing to assume that this fleet is a colonization effort. I will assume then that your people are not aware of the Empire?"

Goodwinson sighed as she took a chair, the others taking chairs around her while Kim took the chair that would give him the most optimal view of the Speaker's face. "Diplomatic protocol would require a discussion much like this one. And I have provided information about the Brotherhood, our people, and our wares in this datapad." She removed the item from a pocket in her uniform jacket and presented it on the table. It resembled one of those "I-Pads" from the early 21st century, and various images and text began to glow on the screen. The datapad was programed with a translation algorithm in case English, which seemed to be the Galactic Standard among Human factions, was insufficient, and if the languages of other Brotherhood member races might not be decipherable.

"As for the incursion, I apologize. My squadron's Intelligence division failed to adequately scan this system upon entry, and failed to detect radio transmissions from a distance during our approach. Something seems to have interfered with our sensors. We are otherwise unaware of the Empire. As I stated when I hailed this station, our people are explorers. We have a habit of traversing the unknown. Due to the properties of our Faster-Than-Light drive the star systems we call home and the ones we regularly visit do not correlate with distance as you might understand it. For example the star system known as Sol, containing eight planets with the third being a famous habitable world full of humans, or Homo Sapiens, is less than thirty light years away from your home star. However, several of our home stars range from being eighty to five hundred light years away from Earth. Our FTL drive does not react with space in a direct fashion, unlike Cochrane Warp, so while you might be aware of all star systems in a certain radius if you used Warp drive, we discover other star systems and the distances between them based on other criteria. Because of this we often bypass and are completely unaware of civilizations that may actually not be that far away."

[Maximus Victor Reborn]

"Well it's an oversight I'm glad did not lead to conflict. We are a small, but growing nation. The planet is unified under one government headed by the Emperor in our capital of Imperopolis. I confess we do not have any formal relations with another civilization. We are a private people, who have not accessed much of the universe."

[The Second Brotherhood of Planets]

"Well it's an oversight I'm glad did not lead to conflict. We are a small, but growing nation. The planet is unified under one government headed by the Emperor in our capital of Imperopolis. I confess we do not have any formal relations with another civilization. We are a private people, who have not accessed much of the universe."

Goodwinson smiled. "We would be happy to help you introduce yourselves to the wider interstellar community, then. We offer multiple kinds of Faster Than Light engines and, consequentially, energy shield technology that would be essential if less friendly stellar communities show up."

(In a undisclosed, *Nearby* location)

"*Cows* are to be found?"

"*Cows* are to be found."

"Happy day! Many *bubbles* are to make good *special sauce.* *Farms* do not produce enough *sauce.* Old *cows* let out too little *sauce.*"

"Yes! But these new *cows* can be *silly.* They might be willing to *dance.* Are Orz fleet ready for *dancing*?"

"New *cows* are not to be *campers*?"

"That is not true. In this *time* the *cows* live near *silly* *bubbles* who have *danced* with Orz before. They caused *Big Boss* *Camp Counselor* to be *squished* by *Biggest Boss*. If *silly cows* are near new *cows*, Orz are to prepare for much *dancing*."

"*Dancing* is not so bad if we can get *veal*."

"But *veal* makes less *special sauce* than *cows*."

"*Veal* *sauce* is better *sauce*! *Sauce* that Orz *boss* gives us is terrible! It makes me want to *dance* with *quick babies*."

"*Quick babies* *dance* is bad for Orz."

"That is why I say that we should talk to new *cows*! And try to make them into *sauce*!"

"That is a good plan! I will tell all Orz to go meet new *cows* soon! We will *jump* in short *time*!"

[Maximus Victor Reborn]

*Speaker Caius looked at the door as several slaves came in offering goblets and glasses of Victorian wine.*

"Ah, Captain may I offer you something fine to drink? We also have water as an alternative."

*Filling his own goblet, he raises it saying,*

"Captain, your health! Excellent, aged to perfection. Victorian grapes thrive in the coldest of conditions, exquisite really for those who appreciate the taste. Now Captain, I must say I fear that there are many things about each of our civilizations we would find it difficult to understand. Our people have little knowledge of one another and little experience. Might I suggest some common ground? We are not looking for a conflict with one another. I think that this takes primacy. I will assume that your exploratory fleet will not attempt to establish a presence in our system. Perhaps there is a way we could negotiate the construction of an outpost somewhere in system? As the only civilization originating here, I am curious, do you intend to try to stay?"

[The Second Brotherhood of Planets]

*Speaker Caius looked at the door as several slaves came in offering goblets and glasses of Victorian wine.*

"Ah, Captain may I offer you something fine to drink? We also have water as an alternative."

*Filling his own goblet, he raises it saying,*

"Captain, your health! Excellent, aged to perfection. Victorian grapes thrive in the coldest of conditions, exquisite really for those who appreciate the taste. Now Captain, I must say I fear that there are many things about each of our civilizations we would find it difficult to understand. Our people have little knowledge of one another and little experience. Might I suggest some common ground? We are not looking for a conflict with one another. I think that this takes primacy. I will assume that your exploratory fleet will not attempt to establish a presence in our system. Perhaps there is a way we could negotiate the construction of an outpost somewhere in system? As the only civilization originating here, I am curious, do you intend to try to stay?"

Goodwinson smirked and raised her goblet. "You can rest assured that space is vast, and that we would have no reason for a territorial conflict. Your moon has mineral resources that we find most tempting, but I am sure there are other deposits orbiting other stars. We could establish a mining outpost on your moon, or if that is too imposing we could establish a lesser fuel refinery around one of the gas giants in this system. Any mining outpost or fuel refinery would have a limited starfleet presence, which would ensure our continued presence here.

"If you do not wish us to be near, we will go, the decision is completely in your hands. If we were to establish a trade route to your system, you can expect federal and civilian freighters to arrive frequently, and both types of visitors would have limited armaments in case of interdiction by pirates or other unfriendly forces. Regardless, if you choose to continue interacting with us, you can rest assured that your exposure to the greater interstellar community would continue."

[Maximus Victor Reborn]

*Speaker Caius looked grave, but not unfriendly. His words were determined and expressed his deep concern for the preservation of their way of life.*

"We have never known another way than ours. Perhaps to you we seem primitive. We are not the most experienced of nations, and we know little beyond the dark portion of our universe. With the authority of His Imperial Majesty, I am encouraged to offer you a place in our system. There are several gas giants, and as I'm sure you can appraise we are far from being capable of utilizing those resources. If you were to establish a station orbiting one of these, the Emperor would like to be included on facility placements and the extent of your presence. While he does not know if you are authorized to facilitate an alliance, or if that would even be best at this point, perhaps a more measured approach would be considered? We are not yet ready for an influx of different peoples to bombard our system, at least not yet. Is it possible that perhaps you would agree to open trade relations, regulated from your facility you will construct. We will come to you, and trade on your ground of course at a negotiated rate. However, will you help us keep our section of the galaxy preserved from outside interference as we slowly open to the larger galaxy through our relations with you?"

[The Second Brotherhood of Planets]

*Speaker Caius looked grave, but not unfriendly. His words were determined and expressed his deep concern for the preservation of their way of life.*

"We have never known another way than ours. Perhaps to you we seem primitive. We are not the most experienced of nations, and we know little beyond the dark portion of our universe. With the authority of His Imperial Majesty, I am encouraged to offer you a place in our system. There are several gas giants, and as I'm sure you can appraise we are far from being capable of utilizing those resources. If you were to establish a station orbiting one of these, the Emperor would like to be included on facility placements and the extent of your presence. While he does not know if you are authorized to facilitate an alliance, or if that would even be best at this point, perhaps a more measured approach would be considered? We are not yet ready for an influx of different peoples to bombard our system, at least not yet. Is it possible that perhaps you would agree to open trade relations, regulated from your facility you will construct. We will come to you, and trade on your ground of course at a negotiated rate. However, will you help us keep our section of the galaxy preserved from outside interference as we slowly open to the larger galaxy through our relations with you?"

Goodwinson's face become somewhat less mirthful. "That is fine. If your people are as of yet unfamiliar with other peoples, then perhaps it would be better if we handed you a warp engine and left this system? We have witnessed the destruction of various civilizations at the hands of others. Indeed, it would be unwise of us to leave you at the hands of greater beings that lurk among the stars. We have cataloged at least half a dozen species that are unquestionably hostile towards life that does not resemble their own. To be frank, any one of these races could possibly overrun your starbase and conquer your world, and that is an atrocity that we could not tolerate. I hate to mimic the words of a civilization that far surpasses our own, but ignorance is your shield: it would keep your people from fearing the unknown. As I am sorry to say that they would have good reason to fear the void. But if you will not object to our establishment of a fuel refinery on one of the gas giants, then we can-"

The datapad began to emit a high pitched screech, and glowed a eerie red.

"An alarm? Now? What is the meaning of this?"

--------------

BPS Red October II, hovering in formation near the Llanvabon, 1 kilometer away from the Starbase

"Captain! They have returned!"

"The Orz? Impossible! We drove those demons back whence they came... We left our home universe in order to ensure that they would never come again. The Arilou said..."

"Captain, the Arilou may be the genetic cousins of our Zorg brethren, but since when were they completely truthful? They may hate the Orz too, but that hatred might also blind them to what the Orz may have planned. Your orders?"

"Sound the alarm! Inform Senior Captain Goodwinson! If they come too close I give you permission to fire at will! Should they approach, give them no quarter!"

-----------------

Orz Nemesis-class Cruiser *Quick* *Dancer*, Bridge

*Boss* *Wet* slid across her command post. It was a *happy day*! Today she met some *cows* that could be turned into *sauce*. Her people desperately needed *sauce*, their *farms* proved inadequate in providing their civilization with that necessary sustenance. The attacks of the Arilou *quick babies* had destroyed their agricultural capacity, and her people were slowly dying. The younger races may have seen them as angry gods, but even the Orz were mortal and vulnerable.

The Cruiser sent an audio transmission to the mysterious *cow* starbase. Would they prove *silly*? Or would they prove to be *Campers*? There had been few *Campers* since the Orz became more concerned about acquiring *sauce*, but for all she knew there could still be *Campers* who were ignorant of the Orz.

The audio transmission reads as follows:

"Hello, *Bubbles*! You are not Orz, we are Orz. Orz are here to get *special sauce*. Orz need *cows* to make *special sauce*. *Bubbles* like you make good *cows*. *Thinning the herd* can be *frumple* to *cows* like you, but Orz are make *parties* with *cows* that become *Campers*. Will you be *Campers*? Orz are not very patient: if you will not give Orz *cows* for *special sauce*, Orz are to be *frumple* and will go *dancing* with you, because you then become *silly* and even *sick*. *Silly cows* are what Orz do not like! Do not be *silly*, give us *cows*. Orz will also accept *veal*, the younger the better, but *veal* gives less *special sauce* and Orz are to need more *veal*. Maybe 3 *veal* for every one *cow*. Orz are see that you *bubbles* may not be good *dancers*. Orz also see that *sick* and *silly* *rejects* are here. *Rejects* are *sick* for the last time! If *rejects* stop Orz, Orz will *dance* until *rejects* are *squished*! *Bubbles*, make your choice. Be *Campers*, or be *Squished*. You have little *time* to tell Orz what you think."

[Maximus Victor Reborn]

*Speaker Caius abruptly stands, looking shocked and disgusted.*

"Abominable filth...we cannot suffer such barbarism to exist in our system. They cannot be allowed any quarter. Admiral, prepare my shuttle, defend this system. Send word to Imperopolis. I am going to the surface, I must speak with the rest of the Black Hand. Captain, if you'll excuse me."

*Admiral Rutherford quickly issues orders to the docking bay through his private comms device and summons a security detachment to take accompany the Speaker.*

"Captain, may I assume we are together in this? Will you be attempting to return to your ship, I am no longer confident that the way is clear. I could most certainly use your assistance up at command if you have experience with these...abominations."

[Maximus Victor Reborn]

--Imperopolis Throne Room--

*The Emperor sits upon the Void Throne glaring at the Listener who is flanked by three of the four Speakers.*

"I want our Surface-to-Space guns all on standby, move Imperopolis to full alert. I want the civilians evacuated to the caves, we will not suffer easy losses. Mobilize all the Districts. Tell the Wall Guards to seal off all traffic. Then I want the soldiers of each district to make sure that everyone complies with the evacuation. Move all of our ships into the air, I want them on routine patrols of our skies in case anything gets through the SS guns."

[The Second Brotherhood of Planets]

*Speaker Caius abruptly stands, looking shocked and disgusted.*

"Abominable filth...we cannot suffer such barbarism to exist in our system. They cannot be allowed any quarter. Admiral, prepare my shuttle, defend this system. Send word to Imperopolis. I am going to the surface, I must speak with the rest of the Black Hand. Captain, if you'll excuse me."

*Admiral Rutherford quickly issues orders to the docking bay through his private comms device and summons a security detachment to take accompany the Speaker.*

"Captain, may I assume we are together in this? Will you be attempting to return to your ship, I am no longer confident that the way is clear. I could most certainly use your assistance up at command if you have experience with these...abominations."

*Quick* *Dancer*, Bridge

The *bubbles* seemed to react to her transmission, and *Wet* was pleased.

"Orz are to send another message to *bubbles*. Go Go Go!"

The message was another audio transmission, that read as follows:

"*Bubbles* are to react to Orz? Happy Day! Are *bubbles* *Campers*? Will *bubbles* give Orz *special sauce*? If *bubbles* need example of Orz *magnificence*, then look at *Veal* *House* in *Bubble* *House*!"

A daycare in Imperopolis

Teaching staff began to panic as various preschoolers and young children at a daycare in Maximus Victor's capital city began to scream and wail as strange objects began to move in their bodies. A young girl felt extreme pain, then nothingness as her head burst open and an Orz individual began to emerge from her corpse. Its tentacles waved at the teachers and other children, trying to grab them as it immediately began to liquify its former host.

------------

Goodwinson sprinted out of the room, with Kim trying to explain to their frantic host that the Brotherhood had indeed dealt with the Orz before and the results were not pretty. Perhaps Caius could hear a voice in his mind, Goodwinson's voice, explaining to him:

"The Universe is vast, Speaker. And the Orz are one of many creatures who wish to consume it. They see all other intelligent life as cattle, nothing more than *cows*. *Campers* are those foolish enough to trust them, and though they receive small gifts such as fresh water, nitrates, and gold ore from the *Orz*, they too are quickly eaten. My people may be capable of telepathic communication like this, but I only broadcast my thoughts: the Orz would literally rip themselves out of your brain and eat what remains."

---------------

Llanvabon's support fleet, in formation near the starbase

The moment their diplomatic team entered the airlock and boarded their vessel, the Llanvabon tore itself away from the starbase in order to redirect itself and its guns towards the Orz cruiser. The entire squadron fired their disruptor lancers and cannons, streams of positrons that struck the cruiser and tore it apart.

Mere seconds after the jagged blue vessel fell apart, dozens more jumped into the system to take its place.

----------------

Orz Cruiser Always *Frumple* *Time*

*Boss* *Dancer* saw the female of his dreams, *Boss* *Wet*, die as her ship was ripped apart by those *sick* *babies*. He had fought the *quick babies* before, and their ships could teleport in space! The *rejects* and these new *cows* certainly could not. The *rejects* were obviously *sick* for the last time, but the new *cows* also showed *silly* gestures and formations that could be interpreted as *silly*. They probably weren't *campers*, and so *dancing* was required.

"If these *cows* are *silly*, Orz are to not have *party* with them. Tell *silly cows* why becoming *rejects* is the most idiotic thing they could do."

The Always *Frumple* *Time* armed the enormous mass driver that protruded from the rear of the vessel, and fired a slug at the *Cow* *Ball House*. A chunk of metal the size of the Empire State Building came flying at 0.4c towards Imperopolis, towards the most prominent *House* the Orz could detect.

[Maximus Victor Reborn]

--Imperopolis--

*Captain Julius Marius looked in horror as children began exploding before his very eyes. Seeing the abominations taking the lives of children sent a sick feeling through his body. Immediately he radioed the information to his superiors, quickly realizing the error of that decision...*

*Inside the cockpit of one of the Victorian Class X Fighters, immediately the coordinates filed in. Initiate firebombing. Within moments several fighters of the squadron broke off from routine control and unleashed targeted hell on the surrounding blocks of the former daycare.*

*Captain Julius poked his head out from the nearest manhole, coughing and spluttering amid the flames.*

"DAMN YOU DEMONS! YOU'VE KILLED THEM ALL! THOSE WERE CHILDREN!"

--Orbital Station Victor I--

"Targets acquired sir!"

"Then dammit open fire and don't stop until those bastards are all annihilated!"

*Scores of weaponry open fire launching energy blasts at the nearest enemy vessels. Victorian weaponry is beginning to experiment with Gauss weaponry, although these guns are few and experimental. Much more is being launched in concentrated particle projectiles.*

--H.I.M.S. Victoria, Largest of the three Victorian Capital Ships--

"Yes Admiral?"

"Captain we are unsure as to the effectiveness of our weaponry against the alien vessels. I want you to move into range and release your modified nuclear armaments."

"Admiral, are you worried about the potential damage to our ships, or the allied vessels? This experimental augmenting of nuclear weapons could also have destructive consequences to the planet itself if..."

"That is why you are going to drive right into the heart of their forces Captain. Arm the nukes. Good sailing."

[The Second Brotherhood of Planets]

--Imperopolis--

*Captain Julius Marius looked in horror as children began exploding before his very eyes. Seeing the abominations taking the lives of children sent a sick feeling through his body. Immediately he radioed the information to his superiors, quickly realizing the error of that decision...*

*Inside the cockpit of one of the Victorian Class X Fighters, immediately the coordinates filed in. Initiate firebombing. Within moments several fighters of the squadron broke off from routine control and unleashed targeted hell on the surrounding blocks of the former daycare.*

*Captain Julius poked his head out from the nearest manhole, coughing and spluttering amid the flames.*

"DAMN YOU DEMONS! YOU'VE KILLED THEM ALL! THOSE WERE CHILDREN!"

--Orbital Station Victor I--

"Targets acquired sir!"

"Then dammit open fire and don't stop until those bastards are all annihilated!"

*Scores of weaponry open fire launching energy blasts at the nearest enemy vessels. Victorian weaponry is beginning to experiment with Gauss weaponry, although these guns are few and experimental. Much more is being launched in concentrated particle projectiles.*

--H.I.M.S. Victoria, Largest of the three Victorian Capital Ships--

"Yes Admiral?"

"Captain we are unsure as to the effectiveness of our weaponry against the alien vessels. I want you to move into range and release your modified nuclear armaments."

"Admiral, are you worried about the potential damage to our ships, or the allied vessels? This experimental augmenting of nuclear weapons could also have destructive consequences to the planet itself if..."

"That is why you are going to drive right into the heart of their forces Captain. Arm the nukes. Good sailing."

BPS Llanvabon, Battle Bridge

"The Victorians are using Nukes? We need not be afraid. Inform the fleet that Thermonuclear devices are being deployed. Raise shield layers accordingly."

"Aye, sir."

"I hope they work... The Orz are an ancient race. They would certainly be aware of all kinds of resistance."

--------------

Always *Frumple* *Time*, Bridge

The Orz cruiser watched as four of its companions were consumed by large explosions. The heat and pain of radiation seared across the surviving Orz vessels.

"*Big Boss* says that more Orz are to come. *Dancing* will continue."

"Are other Orz idiots? All ships are to have Orz put on marine suits! Suits will stop *silly cow* missiles from hurting more Orz *fingers*. *Metal arms* may take damage, but it is *frumple* to have *fingers* *squished*. Tell the *cows* one more thing:"

One last audio transmission was sent towards the starbase:

"*Silly Cows* are seeing Orz *magnificence*, yes? *Silly Cows* are *elegant* *dancers*, Orz are to be sorry for doubt. Orz are to give *cows* one last chance to be *Campers*. *Cows* are to stop *dancing* and will *herd* in *house*, waiting for Orz. If *cows* do this, then Orz will stop *dancing*. Orz are to also give *rejects* the same offer, but Orz are not expecting wisdom from *rejects.* Are you wise, *cows*? Or are your *frumple* like dumb animals?"

Sure enough, more Orz ships began to jump into the system. To them, a truly *elegant* *dance* had just begun.

[Maximus Victor Reborn]

--Victor I--

"Admiral, the nuclear weapons appeared to have minimal effect. Perhaps a few successes, they seem to have adapted."

"Send in our Assassin Class Shuttles, no one produces cloaking devices like Victorians, I don't care what this damn universe spits up! We live and die for the Void! I want all Red and Blue wings to engage the ships at close range to draw their attention. The shuttles will attempt to board several of their vessels, the Imperial Strike Forces V, X, and M will attempt to wipe out the command of several ships and try to disorient them. At very least problems inside the ship will buy us some time!"

*Immediately two scores of ships move to assault the Orz ships closest to the station. The Assassins move invisibly keep their distance behind the initial attack. The ships are designed to spear into enemy vessels and quite literally eject the strike teams into the enemy vessel. The ships accelerate as they approach...*

--Imperopolis--

"AHHHHHHH!"

*The Imperial Officer shouts in rage as he runs his ceremonial dagger into the nearest blob bursting out of the human in front of him.*

"I don't know how much longer we can keep this up, tell Command to radio those alien friendlies we need some help down here. Look more panic three streets ahead, dammit call it in, torch the whole area."

"Captain there is no guarantee that this is nece..."

*Immediately the Captain shoots the hesitating officer in the head.*

"This is no time for that."

[Maximus Victor Reborn]

--Void Throne Room--

"Emperor, the aliens have hailed us again with what appears to be another ultimatum of surrender."

"If anyone repeats any more messages from these aliens they are going to be executed on sight."