I.U. Act One: The Voice of the Gods

[Vortukia]

ACTONE


Space, the final and endless frontier. Shrouded in ancient mystery, with the unknown clawing at every celestial door and window. A wilderness of nebula's and stars. The Universe, of galaxies is infinite. But it's ancient history is one covered in a cowl of the uncertain, and unexplained. As well as the impossible.

This is your story, this is your universe, your existence to forge your own destiny.

But some path's can not be broken, and must be followed.

The Universe is Infinite after all.

[Vortukia]

OPERATION_LEGACY

OPERATIONAL GOALS
Phase One
• Secure a Desolate System
• Develop Self-Replicating Builder Nano-Machines
Phase Two
• Mass Produce Samples of Nano-Machines
• Test Nano-Machines on Desolate System
Phase Three
• Merge Nano-Machines with Synthetic-Organic Vessel [Creation of new Organism Class]
• Support the Development of the new 'Civilization'.

Vortukian Science Vessel; New Life

The Vortukian vessel was floating over a desert like planet, covered in rich sand dunes. Long since stripped of resources, of the few it had. The natural fauna was non-existent anymore due to the harsh unforgiving desert climate. Above the long, imposing black vessel hovered over the planet.

In the launch bay, a large fifty, by fifty or so feet room filled with several scientists in white and blue hazard coats. They were typing things into computers, as others were putting final checks on the launch mechanism. One used a large automated mech, with large claw pincer like hands. Painted a striped black and yellow to represent maintenance. It held a large black pill shaped item. Made of some unknown metal with several spikes protruding out of the top. It fastened the pill like device into the machine.

Head scientist Adam Lamber's of Project Legacy looked over the numbers again. They had to get this right, they had come too far to get this wrong. "Launch the Seeder." he said in a deep imposing voice as a man slammed his hand on a button next to the launcher. A hole opening up underneath it as the container fell down, it's smoothish shape allowing it to fly down at incredible speed.

---

Planet; Arybissa

The Seed Pod came crashing down, as it hit the ground. It threw clouds of sand-dust into the air around it. A small pop was heard as the smoke cleared. The Pod was somewhat embedded in the ground, as the purpose of the spikes was revealed. Shooting into the ground they helped to anchor it in. The top opened up to reveal several holes on the sides of the pod. Spewing out a seemingly empty gas that held something truly remarkable.

Nano-Bots.

All around the vicinity of the pod, were large shipping container like things. Some filled with small datadrives of important building technology, atmospheric generators and misc technology here and there. The general things you would find in a city, or a small early fort. Inside other containers were pure stacks, upon stacks of raw materials. Such as steels, Iron, and other precious materials as well. Including a small cache of Omitian. If the test was successful, how the nano machines used this extremely strong but non-reproducible resource determined their adaptability.

[Novia Soviet Socialist Republic]

Galaxy Strain

At long last, the Galaxy Strain had been released from its frozen prison. Not that it really mattered to them, in fact the nano bots didn't have the processing capability to care about the fact that it had been frozen for ages. It only had one purpose at the moment. Consume matter, turn it onto energy, use energy to survive, replicate and begin construction of a Hive Mind. In fact, they had just started this process. The planet was devoid of any resources this was correct and they were given some materials to work with, this was also correct. But whatever matter they devoured didn't matter to them. They could make a civilization using resources that only a resource rich planet would have on a planet with little to no resources. The resources provided for them would only be useful once a Hive Mind is established.

So began the cycle of life for the nano bots. Eat, work and multiply. That's all they are going to be doing for the next few days until they finish the Hive Mind. This is where it all begins. There's no going back now for anyone.

[The Fallen Jedi]

Reserdan, Presidium City
Emperor's Observation Dome
Emperor Sanji Masaki

On the planet of Reserdan, in its capital city of Presidium City, an impenetrable fortress even rivaling that of the Citadel, the Golden City of the Dark Jedi Republic and her allies, a city even beyond that of the most beautiful futuristic Utopia, and a city that was credited with being the final and last stand of the Imperial Federation, this place was indeed the home of the Dark Jedi Republic, and its birth place. Deep within the depths of the massive city sat a massive Observation Dome, an area in which even the most prestigious leaders would be extensively searched to protect only a single man, the one who would be known as Emperor Sanji Masaki, the Patriarch and the beloved leader of the Dark Jedi Republic, a figurehead that had the ability to run his Republic without any intervention from the Senate itself.

However amazingly, Sanji sought a new beginning for his people, a beginning which would be a focal point of freedom, prosperity, and a new era of peace for the Galaxy, a promise he had made to himself to finally free the people of his Galaxy from years of tyranny and oppression, was finally being realised. In the Observation Dome, where 8 Shadow Guards were lined underneath 8 Giant Statues within the Dome, and the Emperor, who would sit on his Black Throne, looking outside to the massive city that was Presidium City, a living legacy of his own creation, and even that of his ancestors.

It was here that multiple holograms containing Grand Admiral James Quimond, Vice Chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Grand Moff Thrawn, Supreme Commander Giad Pellaeon, High General Myaku Masaki, and even Clone Commander Cody and Gree appearing in the Holograms, Sanji's chair would automatically turn to face the holograms "Ah, my friend!" Sanji exclaimed happily "What do you all have for status updates today?" Sanji asked.

It was here that Commander Cody would salute to Emperor Sanji, addressing him "My Lord, we have located one of the last remaining Imperial Federation holdouts and are currently proceeding to eliminate the holdout, the 331st Army is spreading around the Outer Rim, attacking these holdouts all at the same time, i had asked Commander Gree to provide reinforcements..." Commander Cody said, allowing Commander Gree to stand up and comment.

"The 257th Sky Jumper Corps, and the 151st Battalions have been reassigned to Commander Cody as requested to further reinforce our campaign, at the current rate of attack, we expect the Imperial Federations Holdouts to be eliminated within the week my lord." Commander Gree replied to Sanji, who nodded his head "Very Good Commander Gree." Sanji then turned his head to Commander Cody "Cody, i expect to see the results that Gree promised to me within this week, we are on a very tight schedule here." Sanji stated, with Cody merely saluting as his and Gree's Holographic Projectors went offline.

Sanji then turned to his brother, and High General Myaku Masaki, who addressed Sanji first "Emperor Sanji." Myaku replied, saluting to his brother "We have recieved a unidentified transmission from a unknown location and sender, so far our decoders have been unable to decrypt the transmission, however the only thing that they managed to decode was the word Masaki, i believed that required your immediate attention so i wanted to report it to you Sir." Myaku said.

Sanji's expression was that of surprize, to have a transmission contain his last name was something very much unexpected, and his allies would have addressed him as Emperor Sanji, it was here that Sanji rose quickly, looking at Myaku with a slightly serious expression "I will meet you in the Dark Jedi Temple Myaku, this is indeed a mystery we need to solve as soon as possible." Sanji stated. Myaku replying "Yes My Lord." Myaku said, as his Hologram went offline, following Quimond's, Thrawn's, and Pellaeon's as Sanji walked down the steps of his throne, walking out of the Main Chamber.

[Imperialisium]

Desolate Star System

The desolate binary star system was home to nothing but asteroid belts, two dying stars, and several barren worlds. None where naturally habitable and only three had trace elements of an atmosphere. But even then, something, was broadcasting on a plain low tech electromagnetic frequency.

It was just a set of numbers, like coordinates, playing over and over again and again. Into the ever expansive maw that was the blackness of space. The void. What was on the planet? The fifth one from the smaller Sun, and one with barely any atmosphere or ionosphere. What could possibly be transmitting such a thing? Interested parties would have to find out. To bore deep into the rock of a mountain where the message was figuratively blaring from, and uncover what lay in slumber.

[The Fallen Jedi]

Reserdan, Presidium City
Dark Jedi Temple, Communication Transmission Chamber

As the Shuttle containing Empeor Sanji landed in the docking bays of the Dark Jedi Temple, 2 Shadow Guards emerged from the shuttle before Sanji, who emerged a few seconds later, noticing his brother, Ryaku Masaki standing by the entrance into the temple, who was smiling, bringing his hand out to Sanji, who would gladly shake it before embracing his brother in a hug "It's nice to see you Brother." Sanji smiled. Ryaku's expression remained that of happiness, before reply "Come now Sanji, Myaku is waiting for us to begin." Ryaku said, leading Sanji down the halls of the Temple.

As the two began walking down the Temple halls, Ryaku began to speak "So Sanji, how has it been going, about the Covenant?" Ryaku asked, causing Sanji's expression to slightly darken "Ah, the Cho'dosian Covenant, the Senatorial Security Committee has been keeping a close eye on the Covenant, and Presidium Security has been keeping a close eye on the manifests of trade items coming in from foreign nations to make sure that there isn't a threat to myself, you, or anyone else, other than that, the Covenant has been relatively silent for the time being." Sanji replied to Ryaku as both of them walked into the Communication Transmission Chamber.

Myaku chuckled as he noticed his two brothers were late, and as they were high ranking leaders, Myaku liked to taunt his two brothers over it "Ah, so your late again?!" Myaku smiled as he sat on the many chairs facing the Large HoloTable. Sanji chuckled, looking at Myaku with a happy expression "Oh stop saying that, we can't always be on time." Sanji dryly joked as he and Ryaku took a seat next to Myaku as a holographic projection appeared before them "Let us begin..." Sanji said.

[The Armed Republic of Dutch Coolness]

An'garrath, Capitol World of the Pact
Council Chambers

"No!" a voice boomed across the Council Chambers. "I shall not stand for this! These are innocent lives we are talking about!" Several people began muttering, quiet enough so that no one could hear them, but loud enough to inform others that they were talking. A single 'man' stood up, raising his hand, and the room fell quiet. The man looked around him, and waited for several seconds, until there was absolute silence.

"These are rebels, Lord Ganon. Not planet-wide, but sector-wide. While yes, there are indeed many innocents on these worlds, still loyal to us, we cannot proceed as you suggested. If we do not kill them all, our forces will be set in a combat situation for over ten years of guerrilla warfare. Ten years without any production coming from this sector. Ten years without anything of use to the Pact coming from an entire sector. The destruction of all life in the sector, and subsequent re-population, will take only eight years. We have many worlds that are overpopulated, and these people would gladly resettle these rebel worlds. What you are suggesting is compassion. Compassion is of no use to us, and while generally tolerable, it is not now. What you are suggesting is inefficient, and you know it."

Lord Ganon, governor of the Berith sector, jumped up from his chair almost immediately. "No! You can not do this! These are innocent people - their lives are my responsibility!"

"Indeed they are. They shall die. If you are not careful, so shall you."

The Governor's head turned red in fury, before he stormed out of the council chambers, followed by his guards. While the sector that had been his to command had been overtaken by rebels against the An'garrath Pact, the Governor had managed to escape along with several regiments of his elite guard. Clad in power armor and armed with pulse rifles, they were dangerous foes indeed, and Ganon had several warships left, too, equipped with drives capable of leaving their Galaxy - dubbed the An'garrath Galaxy (the Pact was very original with their naming) - and as such still had much under his command. As the room finally went quiet again, the man started speaking again.

"Can we all agree Lord-Governor Ganon of the Berith Sector is hereby banished, and that his continued existence shall not be allowed?" A quick vote showed that the Council was in full agreement on the subject. "Then let us proceed."

Lord Subjigator and Chief Justice Soverin Torgador sank back into his throne, pleased, as another Council member rose.

"Seven-point-three hours ago," she began, "our ships have picked up a mysterious signal. A set of numbers, nothing more. We can not say if it is within our Galaxy, or beyond, but the signal is currently being tracked. I have taken the liberty to begin preparations for a military expedition to investigate. It will be able to leave within the day, should the Council agree. We, the An'garrath Pact, may discover new worlds and technologies by tracing it - we may have much to gain, or we may not. We should vote now. Those in favor, raise your hands."

From his throne, Torgador raised his hand, nodding. Looking at the other eighteen Council members, he saw that most of them raised their hands, too. "Then this notion is passed." the woman spoke, remaining quiet for a second before continuing, "and an expedition shall be launched, following this signal to its roots."

Soverin sunk back in his throne as the woman sat down in her chair, and yet another lord stood up and began talking. It would be a long day...

[Veroxia]

The Korosian Nation
"The purpose of the Korosian, is to be a Korosian, to become the metal being it is to be, to strike down on its foes, and to become the superiors of the universe. Lifeforms, are the wastes of this universe, they are the carbon-based 'things' that must be exterminated, even if it is of superior intelligence to us..." -Emperor X-5

Marcadia, Koros
Theme:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tb-gI_pFog0
Although the Korosian Nation has now become the democracy many has wanted to see it, the past never hides, and the militaristic nature of Korosians have brought them into an era of confusion. Many choose to keep the democracy and live life to the fullest, while some wish to return to the way of X-5's empire, where the Korosians were dominant, and every lifeform was murdered brutally, ranging from firing squads to their limbs being ripped one by one. Still, it is certain all Korosians wish to contact states in order to prosper greatly and in order to fulfill themselves as a superpower in the universe.
As President Shockwave, standing in a balcony guarded by several Medium Units watched a military parade in which several million Korosians took part of, he salutes to the marching armies that stomp the streets of Marcadia. The civilians cheer for them greatly, as the crowd roars, showing the Korosian pride it always had. Behind President Shockwave lies the Grand Commanders and Grand Admirals whom have command the Korosian Military besides their leaders for many thousands of years. Grand Commander Firefight, one of the senior Grand Commanders whispered to President Shockwave, " Sir, I believe it is of great timing to begin Operation: Prosperous." Firefight whispered seriously. Shockwave looked back at the Grand Commander, knowing of the advantages the operation will have upon the Korosian Nation.
"We will begin once the parade is completely finished." Shockwave stated as he again saluted to the soldiers below him.

[The Fallen Jedi]

Reserdan, Presidium City
Dark Jedi Temple, Communication Transmission Chamber

"The Dynasty may be the most powerful in this Galaxy, but i merely choose not to abuse its power, i only use it as a tool of freedom, a nation that will stand above all else not in terms of its power, but by the belief of Peace, the Masaki Dynasty is the incarnate of that peace, something i envision even after my death, an incarnate of peace that will forever be remembered in Galactic History."

- The Founding Masaki, Circa 93,440 BBR

As the Three Brothers looked on, as Myaku brought the unidentified transmission up, almost the entire document was redacted, showing absolutley no information about it's sender, but the only thing that they could get out of it was the word Masaki and and date of 50,000 BBR hundreds if not thousands of years before the Republic itself even existed, Sanji looked on in amazement, something that mentioned the years of 50,000 BBR and even a last name of a Masaki, Sanji was entirely aware of the legends stated about The Founding Masaki, his very first ancestor.

Sanji turned to Myaku "Brother, can't you try decoding the message and see what it says?" Sanji asked, knowing that Myaku was an adept Technology user, noticing even Myaku's expert hacking skills. Myaku nodded as he uploaded his complex Decrypter program, the program trying to decode the program, but all of a sudden, the Holotable's visual turned into a Red Screen, entirely freezing the Decrypter Program right in it's tracks. Myaku's eyes widened in surprise "Impossible..." Myaku said in amazement "This transmission Decrypted my own Program!" Myaku said in shock.

Sanji stood up quickly in surprise "Thats impossible..." Myaku would then finish for Sanji "This program has the capabilities to wipe our entire Department of Defense and yet this transmission redirected it back to the Program." Myaku said in shock. Ryaku would then stand up "Wait a moment." he stated as he zoomed in the image of the Transmission "This transmission originates back to the planet of Rhen Var, all the other words are redacted, but you can notice the R and V in the statement, i think something tells us that we have to return to Rhen Var." Ryaku said. Sanji nodded in agreement "I think we have to do just that." Sanji replied.

[Imperialisium]

Appropriate Theme Music

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fx-f1yWWx_I

Some time eons past

A world molten and furious in its throes of birth. A lone ship, entirely crystalline in nature, sat in geosynchronous orbit. A lone figure radiating in golden light, a form impermeable yet transparent. Several other figures materialized close by, and voices where heard. The first figure raised what one could surmise to be a hand, and began to make a circular motion. Not soon after the molten planet before them began to spin faster, gathering the debris cloud faster and faster. Time was abstract in this odd out of body experience. The figure continued with the circular motion as clouds, beautiful pristine skies, and clean oceans along with practically landscaped panorama's emerged on the planet below. A world wrought by nature and the hands of an artisan combined.

Whispers could be heard, voices immutable and yet incoherent. The mood aboard the beautifully terrifying ship darkens. The lone figure turns and walks away leaving the onlookers silent. Upon exiting the room the whispers rise to a cacophony.

Imperial Palace

"With the passage of strange eons, even gods may die."

"I'm sorry Father, what did you say." said a female with flawless skin and adorned only with deep blue mascara along her supple eyes. Accentuating her full brows and pitch black hair. She gazed at the strange male before her, wearing regal clothing and a crown forged from a dying star. He had his hand raised, seeming to caress the holographic image of a desolate, volcanic, and lifeless world.

"Nothing my Daughter. I was simply musing to an old thought."

"You mean a memory? You never talk much of your past father. Why is that?" said the young woman with inquiry sketched upon her face.

"Yes. You could call it that." replied the male.

"Father?"

"Yes?"

"Your past?"

"That is a discussion for another time." At that casual phrase it was clear this conversation had ended, and the young woman left the dim room lit only by the holograph.

"With strange eons, even I will die."

[United Soviet Jason Republic]

The Engian Confederation

New Engia:

The desert city was full of lights as the large red sun sank on the horizon. Another fast paced day had passed on the world, the capital of the confederation. However the city never stopped. It couldn't. The center of trillions in Cubits of trade, digital and tangible. Engian merchants always had someone keeping tabs on late night movements, buying, selling and hoarding within seconds. The super computers of the Engian Stock Exchange never went offline and never could. There was too much to loose. The Engian Civilization was too interconnected to be cut out. Anyone with a chip or technology integrated into their body was constantly online. On Social Media, games, movies, chatting, or trying to get work done the average Engian was integrated into the country's vast servers and telecommunications. The sixty two worlds of the confederation all where spewing out data to one another. The chaos was unimaginable.

The few men and woman meant to handle this chaotic mess of information, thoughts and ideals was the Senate. Representatives of their worlds they where the political say of their planets, with billions of people backing their words. Yet they had a great responsibility, for hundreds of years they could get little done. The little fragmented confederation, its pesky sides and political feuds never really changed. But it would have to someday.

These politicians had a new problem to confront. The massive media and interconnections of Engian society had their risks. Mega cooperation after cooperation rose up to corner a market, forcing billions to take part in their plans. Yet the Senate was too weak to do anything. Billions knew their lives, data to some, where on the line. Yet most wanted to keep up with the best implants and not the facts. The Senate, meant to convene after local elections, was entering a new era.

Caprica

"Prince Leon Maleeeke, the first of his name, heir to the Empire of Engio," the squire announced to the waiting group of nobles. The capital of the Empire was in Caprica, a golden topped pyramid hallowed out. On the inside the state functions of the empire where run. Yet this empire was apart of the confederation. "M'lord," the green man said. As he walked down the red isle his white and light green robes swayed back and fourth. At his side he had a sword and in his hand a tablet. Nobles gave him a glaring look, one of respect but distrust. The prince was an upstart and everyone knew it. The Emperor looked at his son and greeted him warmly. "Ah! It is you! Good. I want you to please tell the others what i have told you," he said, taking the tablet from his son. The son nodded and turned back. His mechanical eyes took in the sight and adjusted for the harsh sunlight coming in through the open top of the pyramid.

"I am to represent Caprica in the Senate, an honor normally reserved for my father. I shall lead our people to glory and get what we deserve." The group of nobles applauded politely. This had never been done before, but what could they do? Soon this upstart would be awaken to the rude reality of the Senate.

Engian Science Vessel: The Intrepid

In a flash of brilliant white light the sleek black cruiser entered the star system. The first scans of the system showed nothing new. Dying stars, asteroids and old planets. The system would have been good for Engian mining operations, and thus was marked down with a special highlight. Taking its time the cruiser patrolled through the asteroid belts, taking samples and writing surveys on its computer to be sent back home. It was a typical mission. The dying stars could be used for their energy, a prized commodity on the Engian markets. This was also noted, as stars that could be used where rare and regulated harshly. When taking surveys of the planet one caught their eye. A signal was being emitted! This had to be investigated further. The starship sent back a reply, which stated it was from the Engian Confederation and on a scientific mission.

[The Orson Empire]

Orbital Shipyards
Thernodaea, Covenant Space

Thernodaea is a habitable planet located near the center of the Cho'Dosan galaxy, where many of the Covenant's most prestigious and well-developed worlds were centered. The planet had been a member of the Covenant for millennia, and played an influential role in its history. Thernodaea's surface was populated by 50 billion Cho'Dosans, and the surface was covered in various factories which produced everything from electronics to food to weapons. Supplies were generally shipped in from other areas of Covenant space via constant convoys of cargo and freighter ships, but mining did exist on the planet. However, the planet was best known for its vast network of orbital shipyards, which circled the planet in giant rings. Additionally, there were other large space stations in orbit around the planet that built and repaired ships and were able to hold thousands of people. The shipyards were capable of building and repairing millions of ships at once, and thus, the planet had the largest shipyards in Covenant space. Although other orbital shipyards existed, the ones at Thernodaea were vital to the Covenant due to they had the largest ship capacity. The shipyards were very well defending, containing state of the art defenses not seen anywhere else in Covenant space (except at Klandulor, the capital). The shipyards were heavily reinforced and capable of withstanding weeks of sustained bombardment, and they also contained various superweapons that would cripple enemy fleets.

The planet had first come into contact by the Covenant thousands of years ago, and it was owned by a species that was very skilled at making ships. The Covenant reverse-engineered their designs and used them against the enemy species, conquering them and taking control of the planet and the orbital shipyards the species had constructed around the planet. The shipyards completely transformed the Covenant's war machine, allowing them to create ships very quickly and viciously expand across their galaxy, conquering any species that dared to resist. The shipyards are currently owned by Thernodaea Drive Yards (TDI), which in turn was a government-owned corporation directly controlled by the Grand Administration. TDI was the largest ship-building corporation in Covenant space, and they constructed much of the ships used in the Covenant Navy, as well as numerous popular civilian ships. Over the past several years, TDI began to slow down its civilian market and focus on creating more combat ships, as the Covenant Military was planning to begin expansion into other galaxies. Production lines of combat ships increased drastically, especially due to the looming cold war between the Covenant and the Dark Jedi Republic, whom the Covenant had plans to conquer.

To oversee the military buildup, current Overlord Sian Niam (the head of state of the Covenant) traveled to the shipyards aboard his private vessel. He docked at one of the hangars and met with the president of TDI. Together, they watched on one of the observation decks as thousands of newly completed ships were released, while thousands more continued to be constructed.

"What a very impressive sight, president," the Overlord said in amazement.

"That I can agree with," the president replied. "As I am sure you can already see, we have met our quota on the amount of ships your government ordered."

"And what of the new line of dreadnoughts that are under construction?" the Overlord asked.

"Ahh yes, I almost forgot about that. Follow me." They both left the observation deck and traveled to a restricted-access dock, while construction outside continued.

[Imperialisium]

Desolate Star System

At first the Engian ship would receive no sapient contact besides the repeated broadcast of the numbers. Which, probably had been deciphered as coordinates to the system or planet and possibly the origin of said broadcast. Then, and suddenly gravitational fluctuations would register throughout the system. All bearing the resemblance to black holes being birthed--before fading into nothing.

What followed should be terrifying, as a second electromagnetic signal began to be broadcast directly to the ship on a short wave. At first nothing, empty message, then breathing. Just breathing, deep and relaxed. Followed by shallow, quick, and a sense of paranoia on whoever was or whatever was controlling the signal on the planet.

Whispers, background noise, and possibly a scream though man or woman's it was impossible to tell. Silence. The second signal cut off. Only the numbers remained.

The planet remained apparently life less, save for a heat signature beginning to coalesce and flicker deep within the heart of a tall mountain surrounded by barren flatlands.

[Vortukia]

GUARDIAN SHIP; KORRAN



It is the Guardians who are methodical scouts, and protectors of Vortukia. Scouting out unknown galaxies and systems. Gathering data on civilizations, regions, charing and if need be, assisting.

---

The Korran was a ship simply built with universality in mind. It carried several labs for various fields. A medical lab that would put many to shame, and a foundry capable of designing and working on new projects. It's hull was thick of Omitian reinforce steel, making it exceptionally resilient alongside a hard light shield. Coupled with a array of Thanix Cannons, it made the ship a formidable in combat. Staffed with volunteer soldiers for the mission. It's mission to explore.

---

The Korran ship had heard, the broadcast and had tracked it. Using it's location gathered to make a jump to the location to the origin. The Guardian Ship was a simple scientific and Exploration vessel in the vicinity, so it wasn't too far away. But enough that it would have never found the location without the signal.

When the ship warped in and heard the secondary signal, it activated it's stealth mechanisms. As the ship rippled into the void of space, it's hull turning from a sleek metal to a seemingly intangible cloak.

The crew listened intently at the sound, a face of confusion and uncertainty. The Shipmaster, Rafe 'Alghul scratched his face as he looked at the planet, focusing on the lone heat signature. Logic dictated that whatever that signal was. It was most likely originating from that heat signal. But what could be emanating that signal. Was uncertain. "Send a Team Down." he said as he rested back in his captains chair, looking at the signal. "Five man, fire team, one android." he added on, as his orders were carried down by comm officers.

---

Two large metal doors opened, as a small ship with a purplish red stripe slowly drifted out. On board were five guardians, armed with standard equipment, as well as a support android. The android looked like a normal person, but with much paler skin, his eyes were a pure white, giving it a somewhat unsettling appearance.

The ship descended into the atmosphere around the region of the heat signature, searching for it's source and a place to land.

[Mesrane]

Calan Awst, Lamhian Confederacy
The honor guard knelt and bowed their heads as Cuathnir strode down the stairs, nearly blackened with the dried blood of countless duels. At the end of the promenade stood a lone Lamhian, dressed in the flowing robes of a noble. He too knelt as Cuathnir reached him.

"Holy Lord Cuathnir. It is truely the greatest honor . ."

The Lamhian slapped his clasped fist against his shoulder, the military salute.

"Rise, Aedan." Cuathnir's red eyes flickered with pleasure. Unlike the highest nobles, who were far beneath him, Cuathnir experienced true power, absolute, inshakeable obeidiance.

" I assume Count Sadric is away where you intended to put him?" Cuathnir raised an eyebrow.

Aedan, Duke of all Caernaft System, trembled. "Yes, Holy One." Count Sadric is with the expedition. If he dies, House Arnann will be ruined, as I ensured they provided the funds for the expedition."

A grin spread over Cuathnir's pitted, jagged grey face. His pointed ears wiggled in delight. "Excellent work, Aedan. You are dismissed."

[The Armed Republic of Dutch Coolness]

Have some appropriately manly music.

Desolate Star System
The Obedience

The unknown signal had been tracked without much trouble, in record time. A small fleet of warships had arrived near the source, the fifth planet in some sort of desolate binary star system. The fleet made no attempt at stealth - after all, this was a desolate system, and no one would be interested in it, unless they, too, had picked up this signal. Another ship had arrived shortly afterwards. It appeared to be broadcasting a different signal, in reply to the one coming from the planet, and didn't appear to be of much danger to the Fleet Masters of the XXIVth Expedition Fleet that had been mustered at An'garrath.

Soon after their arrival, another message had been broadcasted from the planet. Breathing, a scream? It was of no great worrying to the officers - it only served to pique their interest even further. A heat signal began coming from a single, desolate mountain, at the heart of a clear waste. The order to prepare for combat was given, and the Fleet began readying their weapons and shields, ready for war. If they were walking into a trap, they would not do so unprepared. It was then that, throughout the fleet, the order to land was given. Dropships and bulk landers sped towards the surface, bearing with them 300 Infantry Troopers and several, light vehicles with them. The landers descended through the almost non-existent atmosphere of the planet at a breakneck speed, those in command of the Expedition eager to find out what was causing the heat signal, and who was sending these broadcasts.

Twenty-three minutes later
Planetfall

The dropships had landed, and their cargo had been deployed. Three-hundred of the An'garrath Pact's soldiers - not the most experienced, since that'd be a waste, but still veterans - stood ready, waiting for orders, as their transports were prepared; buggies and trucks, made for speed and reliability over firepower. They didn't expect to get into a combat situation, but nevertheless, they were prepared for anything.

Colonel Anette Prestor, daughter of her namesake who had been a High Lady before her death, stood several meters away from the others, with her favored officers close around. In her hand she held a small communication tool, capable of displaying a hologram. She clenched her fist, and held it in front of her breast, as a manner of saluting, as was commonplace among the forces of the Pact, as the Fleet Commander, Admiral Garvin, came into view, the hologram depicting a tall, proud man, giving her a nod in reply. The signal was short-lived. The Admiral merely stated the word "Proceed", and the link was cut. The order was given, and the small force had heard it. Men and women began boarding their transports, and within a minute, the convoy was on their way, towards the large mountain from where the heat signal had been coming.

[Stormwrath]

Lilac Palace, Tidal City, Zero
6 October 2014

Muniscus Keith Gardner got his briefcase and exited his vehicle. He took a moment to look at the Lilac Palace, the symbol of power and grandeur of the Imperial House of Stormraven. He turned around to look at the capital city's skyline, with a gargantuan structure dominating it. Yes, this was Urbem et Thadal, otherwise known as Tidal City, shining out of the darkness of night that currently envelops the glistening metropolis. Keith was currently wondering why the Emperor would summon him at this hour, as it was 9:47 PM on his wristwatch. He let that slide and walked into the courtyard of the palace.

After an inspection and decontamination by security, he entered the grandiose halls of the building. A golden chandelier greeted his eyes as we walked across the hall. The floor was thoroughly polished, reflecting his body on its surface. As he continued walking, he then caught a glimpse of the stairs, lined with the finest of crystals. Strangely enough though, the Muniscus wasn't distracted by all of this. He just stood there in front of the staircase, waiting for the Emperor to show up.

And so his Majesty did appear, with a beige coat. Percival always thought that robes and jewelry looked silly for an Emperor to wear all day; and that these splendid robes were no use to him other than for impressing his subjects, or for looking like a Christmas tree for that matter. Keith then bowed slightly as Percival came near. "Greetings your Highness", he said in Elumbish.

The Emperor also bowed in response and replied, "Muniscus Gardner, good evening to you. Thank you for coming at this hour."

"You're welcome my lord."

"As you may have heard, the Overseer of Acapulia, Muniscus has just passed away due to a heart attack."

"I'm quite sorry to hear that."

"It's alright. He was a remarkable man. I mean, Overseer Tobias is quite young and active in governing the colony, and yet his years were cut short."

"Well, life can turn heads unexpectedly, your Highness. It can happen to anyone, even to us."

"Gardner, do you know why I have asked you to come here?"

Keith scratched his head and said, "Is it to bury him here in Zero?"

"No." Percival put his hand on Keith's shoulder and said, "I summoned you here to take his place."

The Stormwrathian bowed and replied, "It will be an honor your Majesty; but I have this one question."

"What may it be?"

"Will I be able to leave a legacy, your Highness? I mean, he has done so much for Acapulia that no one can count."

Percival reassured him, "Leaving a legacy is in your hands, Gardner. It depends on what legacy you wish to make. You are excused." The Muniscus bowed once more and left the Emperor's presence.

---

Zero Space Elevator No. 13, Iyo City, Zero
8 October 2014

A Hyperloop capsule stopped at the base station where the space elevator was located. One of 27 elevators, it was a testimony to the unity and the cooperation of the Zeronians as a whole. Several people exited the capsule, including Keith. As they entered the station, each of the passengers was inspected and decontaminated. He used his wristwatch to process his travel details and pay for the fare, which is currently at R$300. Once all of the processes were finished, he stepped into the elevator. It then sped upwards on a cable to the orbital station, where his ship was waiting.

Along the way, he bought a cup of cappuccino and walked towards the spacecraft, sipping some of his coffee along the way. A scanner verified his identity using a laser that scanned his wristwatch. He continued on and boarded the ship, heading to his seat near the window. From there he can see the surface of the planet, along with the shattered moon Minmus in the horizon. Continuing to sip his coffee, a passenger next to him tapped his shoulder and asked, "Are you going to Acapulia this time of year?"

Keith chuckled and replied, "Yes I am."

"Because the citizens living there are going to celebrate the Redstone Festival, and they say it's going to be grander than last year."

"Well, that is something to look forward to." Keith himself never saw the Acapulia Redstone Festival, but he felt that it would be worth seeing. The ship maneuvered itself and left the space station, heading in the direction of Rha. When Zero disappeared from sight, then the ship hummed, and the Improbability Drive activated. The vessel disappeared in a flash, and reappeared in the Namaste System. It morphed into various objects in a matter of seconds before turning back to the spaceship. Some things however, did not turn back the way it was, like Keith's cappuccino (now an espresso). Such was most faster-than-light trips often experienced in Stormwrathian spacecraft.

[Vortukia]

The Fireteam

At the sign of the mountain, all of the soldiers stopped to peer at a entrance. Each looking at one another uncertain on how to proceed with entry. It would probably be abandoned. If there was Amy fancy entrance they wouldnt notice at this time. Too busy tossingideqs around until one reached his hand up. A flash of orange light would form around his hand resembling a Omni-Tool. He would play with the buttons as the others and the android did the same. After repressing a intangible button his body began to ripple as the light around him bent to form a near perfect cloak. They made their March to the entrance of the cave, cycling through vision modes to look forntrace residues of heat, life signs, or psionic energy. They made there way in..towards the source of the strange signal.

[The Armed Republic of Dutch Coolness]

XXIVth Expedition
Undesignated World

A cloud of dust would have followed the convoy, were it not for the lack of a real atmosphere. The lack of noise and, among things, dust clouds, made several of the soldiers slightly uncomfortable, for it was a reminder that they were all reliant on their oxygen supply - save for those (lucky?) few that had become more machine than man, pumped full of chemical substances, body parts replaced by mechanical limbs. As the task force reached the Mountain, the transports came to a halt, and began to unload their living cargo.

Patrols were dispatched, searching along the mountain for some sort of entrance - if they'd find one, it would spare explosives and any potential damage done to what was inside of it. Each patrol kept contact with the main group, still assembled at the transports, with the Colonel and her staff. It was after several minutes that an entrance had been found - much faster than expected. The Colonel made her way towards it, with several eight-man squads in her wake. When they arrived, however, it was revealed that it had already been opened when it was found... which meant that they were not alone on this world.

[Vortukia]

FIRSTCONTACT

Footsteps. Other movement was detected by the fire team. The android was sent over to a corner to lie motionless. The five other soldiers would move swiftly kicking up dust as they went two clung to a side wall while the other three took cover behind varied sized rockets. There compact Sem-Automatic Gauss rifles sending out a blue laser light knt he direction the squads would be coming. They were told to HD their fire as the approaching men would see nothing but dust kicked up and a series of blue lines that seemed to come from nowhere and fade away.

[The Fallen Jedi]

FIRSTCONTACT

Footsteps. Other movement was detected by the fire team. The android was sent over to a corner to lie motionless. The five other soldiers would move swiftly kicking up dust as they went two clung to a side wall while the other three took cover behind varied sized rockets. There compact Sem-Automatic Gauss rifles sending out a blue laser light knt he direction the squads would be coming. They were told to HD their fire as the approaching men would see nothing but dust kicked up and a series of blue lines that seemed to come from nowhere and fade away.

Desolate Star System
The Hidden Nebula
OST: The Arrival

Within moments, a Stealth Shuttle by the Callsign of Hidden Nebula jumped out of hyperspace, far away from the orbit of the planet as to decrease the chances of detection, the Stealth Generator remained online as the Shuttle closed on on the planet, Clone Stealth Troops piloting the ship as they closed in near a landing area, the scanners picking up multiple life forms on the planet.

"Take the Ship as close as possible to those lifeforms and quiet the engines as you approach, we need to keep this quiet." The Clone Captain known only as 'Shen' replied as he turned to the squad of 6 ARC Troopers, whom of which were reloading their Blaster Rifles and placing their Blaster Pistols in their slings, where they belonged "Alright ARC Troopers, you have been given the assignment of locating the source of the Signal, and the scanners have detected multiple life forms on this planet, find wherever those signals are originating from and report back to me as soon as possible." Captain Shen stated.

As the Stealth Shuttle landed on the ground carefully, the Stealth Generator went offline, the rear hatch opening up as the 6 ARC Troopers walked out of the Shuttle, their Blaster Rifles in their hands, along with Speeder Bikes as they walked off of the hatch and onto a patch of ground, boarding their Speeder Bikes and then took off barreling towards the Mountain where the Life Signs were detected, with this, the Stealth Shuttle took off to the Stratosphere to await further orders.

[The Orson Empire]

The Grand Complex
Klandulor, Covenant Space

Klandulor is the capital of the Covenant. The planet was located in an isolated sector of the Cho'Dosan galaxy, far from any dense population center. Klandulor had been terraformed to be a beautiful, scenic garden world, and the Cho'Dosans had complete control over the planet's climate, geology, and even its orbit around its star. Klandulor was home to the Grand Administration (the governing body of the Covenant), the Overlord and his/her family, and the headquarters of various bureaus that help administer the Covenant. Additionally, many government officials and upper class Cho'Dosans lived and worked on Klandulor. However, access to Klandulor was restricted; only those with approval from the government were allowed in, and tourism was generally not allowed (though exceptions could be made). Klandulor also had incredibly powerful defenses, just like the orbital shipyards at Thernodaea, which were capable of fending off entire fleets, and the planet had a large garrison of ships and soldiers.

After finishing up at Thernodaea, Overlord Sian Niam had returned to the Grand Complex (a large, rectangular building where the Grand Administration convened) to oversee the final preparations for the invasion of the Dark Jedi Republic. The Overlord had went up to his office, when his daughter, Jaina Niam, walked in to speak to him. Jaina was the Supreme Admiral of the Covenant Navy and a member of Covenant High Command, and due to she was the Overlord's eldest child (as she was his only child), when Sian died, Jaina would succeed him as the new Overlord.

Seeing her at the door, the Overlord would say,"Ahh, Jaina! Good to see you again. Come on in." Jaina then walked in, closing the door behind her. She was dressed in her formal attire, which was a white suit that had the insignia of the Covenant and her rank on the right sleeve of her shirt.

"You missed the Administration meeting, father" Jaina said as she stood near his desk.

The Overlord looked up. "Yes, I know. It's nothing I haven't heard before- they are just boosting the budget of the military."

"They have also decided on the message they want to send to the Dark Jedi Republic. They are waiting for your approval."

"I have already approved it, and it has been sent to the Republic. Now, we can only hope that they take the bait."

"They will." Jaina then stared out of the window, watching as a ship flew by. "The final preparations for the invasion force have been made, and the ships have massed outside of the galaxy. Once the signal is given, as planned, we will move in on your mark."

"Very good," the Overlord replied. "Remember that we must strike as quickly as possible to do the maximum amount of damage and catch them off guard. After that, all that is left is to grind them down, which I suspect will be a bloody fight......"

---

To: The Government of the Dark Jedi Republic
From: The Government of the Cho'Dosan Covenant
Encryption: Minimum

Greetings. The Covenant has recently noticed the tension between our two nations, which has caused major concern that war could break out in the near future. We know that you have been watching us, and thus, we wish to settle this once and for all. We request that you send ambassadors to the coordinates attached to this message so that we may end our cold war and establish peace and prosperity between our two nations.

[The Fallen Jedi]

The Grand Complex
Klandulor, Covenant Space

Klandulor is the capital of the Covenant. The planet was located in an isolated sector of the Cho'Dosan galaxy, far from any dense population center. Klandulor had been terraformed to be a beautiful, scenic garden world, and the Cho'Dosans had complete control over the planet's climate, geology, and even its orbit around its star. Klandulor was home to the Grand Administration (the governing body of the Covenant), the Overlord and his/her family, and the headquarters of various bureaus that help administer the Covenant. Additionally, many government officials and upper class Cho'Dosans lived and worked on Klandulor. However, access to Klandulor was restricted; only those with approval from the government were allowed in, and tourism was generally not allowed (though exceptions could be made). Klandulor also had incredibly powerful defenses, just like the orbital shipyards at Thernodaea, which were capable of fending off entire fleets, and the planet had a large garrison of ships and soldiers.

After finishing up at Thernodaea, Overlord Sian Niam had returned to the Grand Complex (a large, rectangular building where the Grand Administration convened) to oversee the final preparations for the invasion of the Dark Jedi Republic. The Overlord had went up to his office, when his daughter, Jaina Niam, walked in to speak to him. Jaina was the Supreme Admiral of the Covenant Navy and a member of Covenant High Command, and due to she was the Overlord's eldest child (as she was his only child), when Sian died, Jaina would succeed him as the new Overlord.

Seeing her at the door, the Overlord would say,"Ahh, Jaina! Good to see you again. Come on in." Jaina then walked in, closing the door behind her. She was dressed in her formal attire, which was a white suit that had the insignia of the Covenant and her rank on the right sleeve of her shirt.

"You missed the Administration meeting, father" Jaina said as she stood near his desk.

The Overlord looked up. "Yes, I know. It's nothing I haven't heard before- they are just boosting the budget of the military."

"They have also decided on the message they want to send to the Dark Jedi Republic. They are waiting for your approval."

"I have already approved it, and it has been sent to the Republic. Now, we can only hope that they take the bait."

"They will." Jaina then stared out of the window, watching as a ship flew by. "The final preparations for the invasion force have been made, and the ships have massed outside of the galaxy. Once the signal is given, as planned, we will move in on your mark."

"Very good," the Overlord replied. "Remember that we must strike as quickly as possible to do the maximum amount of damage and catch them off guard. After that, all that is left is to grind them down, which I suspect will be a bloody fight......"

---

To: The Government of the Dark Jedi Republic
From: The Government of the Cho'Dosan Covenant
Encryption: Minimum

Greetings. The Covenant has recently noticed the tension between our two nations, which has caused major concern that war could break out in the near future. We know that you have been watching us, and thus, we wish to settle this once and for all. We request that you send ambassadors to the coordinates attached to this message so that we may end our cold war and establish peace and prosperity between our two nations.

Reserdan, Military Communication Center

Inside one of the Republic's Military Communication Centers of Reserdan, Clone Officers along with Clone Troopers were walking inside of the Center, two Clone Shock Troopers guarding the entrance into the Main Rotunda of the Center, where a Lone Clone Commander along with many more officers were observing messages and transmissions sent throughout the Republic's Sovereign Territory, as he continued working on the Holoboard moving through Transmission after Transmission, one lone message caught his eye, a message sent directly from the Cho'dosian Government to the Dark Jedi Government, however, since the Cold War between The Republic and the Covenant continued on, any message sent to the Government would be routed to the MCC (Military Communications Center).

The Clone Commander would noiselessly open the transmission, staring at its contents, he would turn "Someone get the Chancellor on the line, he needs to see this." The Commander stated, as his Holo channel would soon connect to the Dark Jedi Transmission Chamber, making a Priority 1 Transmission for effective response. The Commander would quickly get lucky as within moments, both Sanji and Ryaku responded to the transmission "Commander, you sent us a Priority 1 Transmission, is there something wrong?" Ryaku asked from the other end.

The Commander would not flinch, and casually responded "We have received a transmission from the Cho'dosian Covenant, apparently they are asking for a group of ambassadors to meet them at a location within their Galaxy, we are waiting for your word Chancellor on what to do with this." The Clone Commander responded. Sanji's eyes somewhat narrowed, he was untrustful of the latter, he disliked the Covenant, knowing that they would be soon hellbent on taking control of his territory, Sanji steadily replied "Commander, you will go to Ambassador Yary Tu'Av, Ambassador Saldau Pefan, and Ambassador Garr Dhur, and tell them that they will be acting on behalf of the Republic in that meeting, and reply to the Cho'Dosians that we will send them, however i want them to be under heavy guard, 4 Starfighters are to accompany the Delegation." Sanji replied.

The Clone Commander saluted, before replying "Emperor Sanji, Chancellor Ryaku, the Senate is requesting for your presence, they are about to commence a session in a matter of minutes, they are waiting for your presence before commencing." The Commander said as he would deactivate his Holographic Projector, quickly replying to the Covenant:

To: The Government of the Cho'Dosan Covenant
From: The Government of the Dark Jedi Republic
Encryption: Minimum

Attention Government of the Covenant, please be aware that a delegation of Ambassadors will indeed be sent to your location in all due time to meet your Delegation at the Specified Coordinates, we will respond with all deliberate haste to the specified coordinates, you will recieve another transmission informing you when the Delegation has departed for your location.

[Vortukia]

BreakOff

Two soldiers from the team sitting and ready for the approaching group of men broke off, to move deeper in the cave. Following the signs of life, holstering their weapons. Their active camouflage still active.

[United Soviet Jason Republic]

Desolate Star System, The Intrepid

On the bridge of the Engian cruiser the reports of FTL jumps and shuttle crafts where all over the view screens. The captain smiled. Two allies and an unknown vessel. Quite interesting.... The green captain in blue uniform walked over to a consul and pressed down on the smooth glass surface. Within seconds another face could be seen in the glass looking up. "Yes Captain?" the face answered, its green and mechanical components staring up at the superior officer.

"I want a landing party prepared ASAP. Beam them into the location directed by the transmission. We have company and I want to get there now."

"Yes sir, Are you sure we are reading strange fluctuati-"

"Get them down there. Prepare for anything that you might otherwise mention to me. Out." The uniformed officer turned to another green man. "XO lead the party and get down there." The other officer nodded and signaled for several others to follow. The Captain turned to the view screen. Time to introduce ourselves. "I want an audio transmission sent to the other ships in the system."

Code: Select all

To: Other Vessels in Orbit
From: The Intrepid: Confederation Science Vessel
Frequency: All Channels

Greetings, I am Captain Malee Colem of the Intrepid, representing the Engian Confederation and her worlds. We come in peace.

Below the Surface:

In a short second, with flashing and spinning lights the first of the Engian landing party landed inside the heart of the mountain. They waited and turned on their lights to see what was around them. Most where exited, it was their first away mission in weeks. The normal routine of charting systems wore them out. However most where afraid of something. Armed with a few pistols and with only a few guards the team of scientists made their way around the cavern.

Unknown System, Inside the Lamhian Confederacy

Breaking the quite of space the Engian cruiser completed its jump into the system, quickly taking its time to adjust its orbit over the planet it was on. The sleek cruiser silently scanned its surroundings and quickly noticed that it wasn't in an uninhabited system. The captian of the vessel sent out a hail on all channels.

Code: Select all

To: Unknown Civilization

Greetings, this is the Science Vessel Orion representing the Engian Confederation. We seek peace, trade and scientific progress. This is a peaceful mission and wish to obey your rules and regulations. We welcome you aboard our vessel to have combat and suggest you submit environmental specs.

New Engia, The Senate:

The senators filled into the open air senate house. The ancient looking greek style temple over looked the sprawling city of New Engia, going off into every direction. Just above the horizon the massive blue and green orbiting ring could be seen, light shining off the waters of the massive ring. Most of the senators didn't bother to look over what they ruled. Most just came over from their home worlds in shuttles and where tired, adjusting to the strange world and time. However soon things got into work. The issue was one of pressing importance. Within the hour most Senators where on the web or catching up on news.

"...and they cannot do such a thing! Our goverment limits the use of such systems in order to prevent what we all know! The Turon goverment must cease their abuse of the Storm Inc. servers!" an old senator yelled, highlighting his point for the gazillionth time. "Our thoughts can not be subject to these corporations" With that the old Engi stood silent. Some applauded, mostly those from his faction. Suddenly someone from another faction rose. It was the Prince.

"If we do not want these cooperations influencing us then we must grow stronger. We must demand that we over see them more" the Prince spoke. It was the first time he did so in the session. Many others, from his faction and others, looked at the young being.

"That is not our job. We are here to keep the peace!" another yelled back. "You and your Empire do not stop the illegal star operations!" the voice continued. Many others cheered in approval.

"We do what we must to control them. So will we with the other companies if it comes."