Depths of Space (IC, OPEN, FT)

[Spindle]

Eris smiled at Khronos’ words. They were sweet nothings, she knew, but they were sweet nothings from the man she loved and that was enough for her to trust them implicitly. His arms around her, his warmth heating her face and their baby son in his crib...this was what a perfect life was. No stress, no politics, no paperwork, just family. She got up, gently lifted Gawain out of his cot and brought him over to Khronos, laying him down between them.

“Do you know who this is?” She asked him, pointing to Khronos. Gawain’s eyes stared up innocently at his father, a hand reaching up and wrapping around Khronos’ index finger.

“That’s daddy.” Eris smiled warmly, “That’s your daddy. Your daddy.”

Gawain blinked up into Khronos’ eyes, his face void of anything but unconditional love for the person in front of him. Eris felt her heart melt again as her baby son hugged Khronos’ finger close to him, his arms wrapping lightly around it before his eyes closed and he rested his head against the nail.




Euphemia nodded at Lyson’s words, considering them. They were an indication of how much he’d changed, that he was confiding his inner feelings to her of all people, a xenos. And apologising to her for his previous actions. She knew she had every right to feel angry about it, or bitter perhaps, but she didn’t-she couldn’t. How could she, when so much good could come from those actions?

“I understand. I didn’t-and can’t-expect you to change completely in such a short space of time. Honestly, I’m amazed that you’ve gotten this far...especially with your people’s experiences.” She shuddered slightly at that, before continuing, her eye softening further, “But you don’t need to apologise for what you did, Lyson. If you hadn’t attacked me there, I’d never have had my chance to talk with you. None of this would ever have happened. You’d still be the same you that you were back then. You might even have done something worse, I don’t know. So, for what it’s worth Lyson, I think it was a good thing that you did what you did. It gave you the chance to change yourself for the better.”





Once you got past the overwhelming strength of the myriad spices, Ophius reflected, the soup wasn’t particularly bad. In fact, it was quite nice. Still, she had decided that she wasn’t headed to Ostian establishments any time soon...unless they had more of this wine. She sipped again, letting the sweet, fruity concoction slip down a throat, balming the spices as it did so. Perhaps that was the point of the soup, to make the recipient more admiring of the wine. Perhaps it was simply to torment foreigners. She didn’t intend to ask just yet.

As her head lowered for another spoonful of soup, several holograms appeared and her eyes snapped up to them, taking them in one by one. The array of heavy powered armour available to the Ostians was staggering and Eris felt a frown flutter over her face for the barest moment. That couldn't be right. How the Hell were they operable under voidal conditions? Her puzzlement deepened as Joseph explained the Coeus. It could withstand the recoil of a full-sized railgun? What were its thrusters like.

"Tell me." She said, "How have you made viable powered armour on this scale? And how do you fit it with all that and still have the power for it?"

[The Greater Gambia]

Jakala,
New Talveria Council Chambers Banquet Hall

Consul Lahira and her Assistant Riiva arrived at the Banquet hall. Around the entrance, Representatives from various species had already arrive, forming little groups based on political affiliation. Some of them greeted and smiled at Lahira as she walked by, others glared at her. Especially the members of the Tagali First Party and other radical groups that barely stayed within the limits of the law before being called a terrorist group. One Representative caught Lahira's eye. A Dalga man alone, standing over at the balcony looking out towards the city, bright with energy.

He was tall, even for a Dalga. Standing about 9 feet in height. He wore the traditional Dalga attire, only in black instead of the typical tan or red. He wore the traditional Dalga mask, obscuring his face.

"Go on ahead without me. I'll wait out here for Lethox." Riiva raised an eye brow before figuring she should stay out of it.

"Suit yourself." Lahira walked up next to the man.

"Representative Korz Salamee. I take it your work has been well?" She asked.

"The Dune Mother welcomes you Consul Lahira. Representative Kamir will have a car accident in two weeks, crippling him for life, pictures of Representative Shila with a Taani prostitute will be leaked to the press tomorrow evening, She'll have to resign due to inappropriate conduct unbecoming of a Federation Official, and Representative Kagima will be found dead of Santaran Kiss overdose next week. One month from now, FIS will raid the Yonghai People's Union headquarters, they'll find documents linking them with Terrorist groups in the Fringe."

"The Bloodied Sand amazes me once again. I had doubts that your organization would be able to take down the Tagali First Party and the YPU in one strike. I'm doubling your pay. 20 million credits will be "stolen" from the Federation treasury. You should expect payment once each of these events has come to pass. Now, enjoy yourself, this is a party after all." Korz bowed his head and made his way into the banquet hall. Lahira looked up and saw Lethox's shuttle preparing to land. She made her way over to the landing pad.

She greeted Lethox near the landing pad.

"Greetings, Lethox. I am so glad you could make it."

[Equestria and its Principalities]

“Attention Shuttle Flight Gamma Tartarus dash Niner Eight Four Celestia, this is docking control for IAS Everfree RN 1301. We've got you marked on approach vector, prep your ship to accept docking tether. We're gonna set you down in docking bay Alpha-1," a feminine voice sounded out of the intership communications system, jolting Captain Star Rider out of the book that he had been reading, titled "Alicorns: A study." The dust-grey Pegasus Stallion, bearing a white comet with a midnight blue contrail on each flank, was instead thrust back into the relatively cramped quarters of the Mark VII Falcon-class Shuttlecraft he currently inhabited.

The Spitfire was a small craft, with just enough cockpit space for a transporter and one passenger, or cargo depending on the need. There were no windows, only display screens, and the normal panels that most shuttles came with had been replaced by the state-of-the-art Interactive Action Display System (IADS), which were projected up off of any hard surface and were easily adaptable to horns, wings and hooves, increasing opportunities for Pegasi and Earth Ponies among the command structure. The Shuttle was his own property, one of the most nimble and swift personal craft ever manufactured that was sound in both atmosphere and the vacuum of space. It was outfitted with a single Phased Balefire turret which had a 290 firing arc, and the strongest shield system he could get on the small craft without sacrificing the speed or firepower.

The Captain looked up to the viewscreen and felt a moment of awe as he saw the ship that he would be commanding, a small smile working its way onto his face. The Sparkle-class vessel was about 750 meters long and half that wide, with the warp nacelles built into the vessel in a manner vaguely reminiscent of a bobsled. It was a light magenta color with the I.A. flag displayed proudly on both sides of the vessel, overtop lettering that spelled, "IAS Everfree RN-1301." The ship was equipped with a sensor array so powerful it could study and accurately record the event horizon of a singularity from three light years away, which also meant that the array was as good as a weapon in its own right. That's not to say that the ship had no weapons, oh no. The Lunar Fleet had long ago begun outfitting its ships with Phased Balefire weapons, which operated by using a intense charged particle stream that dissolved the strong and weak nuclear forces holding atoms together, before roasting the weakened particles with magical Balefire that could rip through standard tritanium hulls like they were mere tissue paper. If the weapons proved ineffective, the new cruisers were capable of warp factor 8.2 at cruising speed, and no test had found its upper limit in fear of damaging the prototype, which was now in service as the IAS Sparkle.

Star activated the comms with a flick of his wings and responded, "Acknowledged Everfree, this is Shuttle Flight Gamma Tartarus dash Niner Eight Four Celestia. Captain Star Rider reporting for duty. Authorization code follows: Beta, Luna, Three, Omega. Note for the record that I will be transporting directly to the bridge upon successfully docking. Tell the technician on the T-pad to be standing by." He brushed a single over the IADS, disabling the forward deflector array for just a moment to allow the tractor beam from the rear section of the heavy cruiser to snag his ship and begin to bring it into the docking bay. Rider, as his friends would call him, closed the book in his hooves while the dock control acknowledged his response and walked over to a small footlocker that was built into the wall of the shuttle, opening it up before stuffing the book within.

The Captain began final checks as the ship glided into its slot with barely a shudder, a testament to whomever was working the docking tether. He bio-locked the controls to his DNA, set a new password for activation, and began shutdown of main engine while he kept the secondary power online to power the transporter. A single chirp let him know that it was safe for him to exit the ship, and he turned around to face the back of the shuttle.

"Computer, set transporter destination to the bridge T-pad of the IAS Everfree," he ordered, only to be met with a small chirp as the ships limited virtual intelligence began to work out the exact coordinates he needed to be taken to. Star stepped onto the transporter and stood stock still as a faint golden bubble began to form around his body, the arcane energies causing his hairs to stand on end, before a faint pop sounded and he was suddenly standing on a much larger version of what he had on his shuttle, staring out over the bridge of his new starship.

A whistle blew out and the technician saluted as he announced, "Captain on the Bridge!" Star Rider was quick to shout an at-ease order immediately afterwards, causing the bridge crew to return to whatever it was they were doing. His amber-toned eyes scanned over the almost perfectly circular layout of the bridge, designed so that nopony would have to shout or twist awkwardly to communicate with anyone else on the bridge. Everyone was dressed as he was, in a color-coded vest that represented their place among the Lunar Fleet, along with bearing their ranks by way of the six-pointed star-shaped pips on their collar. The captain wore a White vest with gold highlights, as well as four pips to indicate his rank of captain.
The fore of the bridge was dominated by a viewscreen directly facing two stations, the only two seated so that no matter who looked at them, they were facing the opposite direction. The main and secondary helm stations were designed to minimize distraction, as any small miscalculation when piloting a starship could lead to incalculable disaster. In those two seats were a light blue unicorn mare with a short-cropped silver mane on the right, currently glancing at him with brilliant magenta eyes before she looked back to her partner, a young Griffon hen who had barely paused in her animated story to go to attention at his arrival before going right back into it. They both wore the white-and-gold vests of the command crew with a single pip on their collars, indicating that they were ensigns. He believed their names were Prima Lulamoon and Hilde Steelfeather, if he remembered the officer's list correctly, and gave them both a flare of his nostrils before moving on.

A muted red Earth Pony stallion with chestnut brown hair and hazel eyes sat in the position of his executive officer, looking at him with an enthusiastic and cock-sure grin that projected both youth and competence, a rare combination. His cutie mark of balanced scales interested the old Wonderbolt, and the fact that his white vest bore three pips despite his apparent young age made the Captain give him a mild nod in respect, which was returned in kind. This one was named Jonathan Apple, yes, those Apples, and was the single most promising student to come out of TSOA since its inception, if the news reports were to be believed.

At the tactical station to the left of his station was one of the largest creatures he had ever laid eyes on, a massive Minotaur that sat in a mildly cushioned, reinforced steel chair made specifically to take his weight. The Minotaur had black fur and deep brown eyes, along with a golden nose ring and a set of four-to-five feet, forward-facing horns that could gore or impale anyone who got on his bad side. He wore a vibrant red vest with two and a half pips on it, marking him as a lieutenant commander, and he only looked up from the PMD (Personal Multimedia Device) he held to give the captain a brusque nod before going back to what looked like security team reports streamed live to the device as they performed the final sweep to ensure no stowaways had sneaked onboard the ship the night before. He was Stone Hammer, son of General Steel Hammer, and among the deadliest combatants in the Alliance in both strategy and melee.

At the science station sat a honest-to-goodness Unicorn Thestral mare, among the rarest breed of the already-uncommon species to exist. She appeared to be so engrossed in her work, fine-tuning the state-of-the-art sensor array that was being field tested by this very ship on her maiden voyage, that she hadn't even heard the announcement of the captain on the bridge. Her name was Dusk Sentinel, and he could see her cutie mark, which was a golden eye with a slit pupil over a light blue shield, rimmed by golden starbursts. He gave the ghost of a smile at the sight, always a fan of those who were passionate about their work, before he wiped his face of the expression and moved up to the Captain's chair, flapping his wings once to hop up into it before sitting down on his haunches and tapping the small panel that stood forward and to the right of his chair, activating the intraship communications to engineering.
"This is Captain Star Rider to Chief Engineer Shim Cog, how long until the engines are primed?" he asked, assuming that they had been waiting for his arrival to begin the start up sequence.

"C'mon Cap'n, this is the Lunar Fleet, not some backwater freighter. This old girl's been purrin' like a kitten for at least half an hour now, and I ain't never heard anythin' so pretty in all my days," a voice accented with the dulcet tones of the mild west responded, causing the captain to raise an eyebrow at the informality. He shook his head and let it slide this time, since she had so accurately predicted his expectations, and merely thanked her for the report before he cut off the communication and sat there for a few moments, taking in what he was about to do.

A seven-year exploratory mission in deep space, using the flagship of the entire Lunar Fleet, the IAS Everfree RN-1301. She was the first fully complete edition of the Sparkle-Class heavy cruisers, designed to be able to operate for extended periods of time in deep space. He would be cut off from the majority of the Interplanetary Alliance, and would have to give all of his trust to his crew, in the hopes that they would do the same for him. Nothing like this had ever been attempted before, not even at the height of the Second Age of Exploration. Nobody knew what he was going to be facing, and he found that he liked the thrill that gave him--it was part of why he had agreed to the position instead of a cushy desk job as a rear admiral. The old Pegasus fought a smile down as he looked over to his XO and nodded resolutely, before he switched on the ship-wide intercom and began to speak.

"Greetings, brothers and sisters of Lunar Fleet. My name is Star Rider, and I am going to be your Captain for the next seven years. You all knew what the paper said when you signed the release to go on this mission: nothing like this has ever been tried before, we have no way of knowing what we are going to find on this mission of exploration, and there is no guarantee of coming back," he said, looking around the room as all eyes swiveled towards him, even the Thestral's. "Well, that's all true. But that's why you stallions and fillies signed up, isn't it? To explore, to see things and places that nobody has ever seen before, and damn the risks. Because you know, as I do, that true explorers can never be satisfied while there is still something out there to be discovered. You are the sons and daughters of seven worlds, grandchildren of Equis, and from this point on, you are family. To your left and right are your brothers and sisters, and each of them would lay down their lives for you, as would I. Hail the Princesses. Captain Rider, out."

"Ensign Lulamoon, cruising speed. Bring me that horizon," the Captain said as he ended the transmission, causing the young unicorn to light up her horn and interact with her display, causing the ship to jump to what most ships would consider high warp.

“We are at Warp Factor 7.86, Captain Star Rider. Engineering reports all systems nominal, antimatter containment is green,” Commander Apple reported, a small grin evident on his face even as his tone remained completely professional. The Captain nodded and thanked him as he stood up and got out of his chair, now that the ship was well underway, before he walked around it and flapped once to bring him over to the science station, where Lieutenant Dusk Sentry was watching the readout for the ship’s sensors as they traveled towards their first destination of the exploratory voyage. She looked over at the noise of his hooves landing on the plush carpet of the bridge and immediately came to attention, her forehooves clacking together audibly.

The Captain fought down a smile at her obvious nervousness and asked, “How are the sensors doing?” He looked over the display and watched as some of the data rolled past on the screen, only understanding some of it. He had been in the Tactical school at the academy, not the scientific, and he was far more at home in a combat scenario than in a lab.

“Sir, this array is simply amazing,” the Thestral gushed, her nervousness seemingly vanished in the wake of the opportunity to talk about the ship’s equipment. “It was projected that the readouts would be far more detailed than anything we have ever had before, but these results have to be 500… No, 1,000 times what we thought they were going to be in the lab. Take this, for instance,” she said as she pointed to a seemingly random section of data. “This is the energy output, radiation levels and chemical composition of a Brown Dwarf nearly thirty light years from our position. And this is all in-warp scans!”

One thing she said caught his ear, and he turned away from the display to look at her as she said it. “In the lab? You were part of the team that designed these systems?” Star asked, causing her to blush and duck her head almost involuntarily, the red showing through her dark coat.

“Well, I mean, there were a bunch of us. I just wrote the programming and algorithms for the array, I didn’t design them,” she said quietly as she scuffed the ground with her hoof, obviously trying to belittle her achievements. The old Pegasus frowned and made a mental note to make sure that the councilor invited her in for a few sessions to work on her self-image, before telling her to carry on and making his way back over to his chair. Before he could make it, however, the turbolift on the port side of the bridge opened up to reveal a Zebra wearing the light blue vest of the medical department and a frown on her face.

The Captain winced internally and got up into his chair, turning around as slowly as possible to avoid having to deal with what he knew was inevitable. When he finally did, he was greeted with the sight of the unhappy zebrican mare with one forehoof planted solidly in his seat while the other was pointed at his face. “Rider, this is the last warning I am going to give to you. You are to come down to sickbay for a full physical when your shift is over, or I am going to declare you medically unfit for duty until you do. Do I make myself clear, Captain?” she asked as she got closer and closer until they were muzzle-to-muzzle, with the rest of the bridge crew looking on in shock.

“Understood, Commander Rafisa… Now, would you be so kind as to go back to sickbay and get those reports for me to send to Lunar Fleet HQ?” he asked with the tiniest hint of a smirk
on his lips, so small that only his old friend could see it. She narrowed her eyes and flared her nostrils at her childhood compainion before she turned around and walked away so quickly that most of the people on the bridge didn’t notice her tail smack him right on the snout. He wiped his face clear of the mirthful expression that had been on it whilst his friend was confronting him and gazed around the bridge, quickly causing the half-formed grins on the faces of the bridge crew to vanish from view as they made themselves look busy. The Chief Medical Officer and himself had been friends since a very young age, when he lived in Manehatten. She didn’t speak in rhymes like most of the Zebra population due to the fact that she had been raised by ponies, the adopted child of two unicorn businessponies that had been friends with his own parents. She was extremely intelligent and highly confident, even if she was a bit confrontational, and she was probably the only one on the ship that could ever talk to her like that without spending a few days scrubbing every maintenance tube on the ship… repeatedly.

For a long while the bridge was silent, save the occasional beep of somepony interacting with their display and the ever-present thrum of the engines as the vessel traveled at what was considered high warp for most standard ships of the day. Just as Star was beginning to relax, he heard a small alert come from the direction of the sensor station.

"Sir, we're picking up artificial signals coming from a C-class system," Lieutenant Sentry said, turning back to her Captain with a bright gleam in her eye. Artificial signals meant life, intelligent life. It was a huge boon to find something like that so soon in their trip, but then they were going faster than any ship before them had been capable of traveling.

"Set a course, Ensign, maximum warp," the captain said, looking up to the viewscreen with an inscrutable expression to hide his excitement. He felt like a colt again, discovering new and exciting things about the world, but he was still the captain. "I'll be in my ready room. Hail me when we arrive."

[The Moscow Metro Red Line]

Sol System - Orbit Around Mars - Battle Group Sol - I.O.S. Relentless Zeal, Crown Prince Joseph Marx's Flagship - Audience Chamber - 2030 Earth Hours

"I am afraid that is a military secret", Joseph spoke. "Battlesuits are the pride of the Ostian military, we prefer to compete with cheap knock-offs or none at all. Ahem. All of my fleet is trained in long-ranged warfare. We can engage the enemy at medium distances of course, but I prefer to destroy them at a distance where the Jager Canon is effective without the danger of counter barrage. I will target the larger ships first of course, than move onto the slower ones. Our ships may be comparatively smaller than yours, but they still carry heavy firepower."

[Aterrian Union]

Fuerein System - Planet Fue5-X
Captain Johnson looked at the Ostian Station with interest. It clearly wasn't built for the cargo ship; at 30km long, the cargo ship dwarfed all ships in the immediate vicinity. His own battleship was also too large to dock, so he simply took a shuttle and arrived at the station himself. The Ostians were probably surprised to see another human. Johnson's first action was the friendly casual salute.
"Greeting comrades! I am Captain Johnson of the UNS Transpire of the Arcturus System, and I am looking forwards to our future cooperation. "

Arcturus 2, Arcturus System
"Sir, we're getting warp disturbances, it seems like someone is nearing our position." An officer reports to General Miller.
Just then, a small bobsled like ship appears in the middle of the stationary fleet, right next to 2 battleships. The stated boxy battleships completely overshadow the smaller craft, as 750m to 15km is a big difference in size.
"Sir! An unknown ship has appeared! Orders?"
"Send them a message." Miller replies as he accesses Arcturus 2's System intercom.
"Attention unknown ship, please identify yourself. You are intruding upon Arcturus space. If you do not comply, we will open fire."
As he says that the two battleships aim their oversized laser turrets in case of hostilities.

[The Dark Brotherhood of Deros]

Hawksin and Stien looked impressed. "Powerful technology. have your race always been this proficient in weaponry?" Hawksin asked.

New Talveria
Lethox slithered out of his shuttle, and activated his anti-grav pack, floating to face height of Lahira. "Thank you, I'm glad to be here." Lethox replied, giving his signature bow, a smile on his small face. "I find myself having to thank you once again for what you're doing." he continued.

[Equestria and its Principalities]

Fuerein System - Planet Fue5-X
Captain Johnson looked at the Ostian Station with interest. It clearly wasn't built for the cargo ship; at 30km long, the cargo ship dwarfed all ships in the immediate vicinity. His own battleship was also too large to dock, so he simply took a shuttle and arrived at the station himself. The Ostians were probably surprised to see another human. Johnson's first action was the friendly casual salute.
"Greeting comrades! I am Captain Johnson of the UNS Transpire of the Arcturus System, and I am looking forwards to our future cooperation. "

Arcturus 2, Arcturus System
"Sir, we're getting warp disturbances, it seems like someone is nearing our position." An officer reports to General Miller.
Just then, a small bobsled like ship appears in the middle of the stationary fleet, right next to 2 battleships. The stated boxy battleships completely overshadow the smaller craft, as 750m to 15km is a big difference in size.
"Sir! An unknown ship has appeared! Orders?"
"Send them a message." Miller replies as he accesses Arcturus 2's System intercom.
"Attention unknown ship, please identify yourself. You are intruding upon Arcturus space. If you do not comply, we will open fire."
As he says that the two battleships aim their oversized laser turrets in case of hostilities.

A yellow alert sounded on the bridge as the sensors picked up the two massive starships on either side of the Everfree locking their guns on the smaller ship, the shields raising automatically in response to the perceived threat. Captain Rider tensed for a moment as he took in the reports coming from his officers, a flurry of shouts and sounds being filtered by his experienced ears. He used to be a Wonderbolt, after all, and that required much more intense concentration than just interpreting a bit of information. Still, the size of the warships was a bit worrisome, to say the least. Hopefully they could resolve this peacefully.

"Captain, we're receiving a hail," Ensign Hilde reported, a talon going up to the small metal piece in her ear that allowed her to hear the missive before the rest of the bridge. A nod from her captain was all it took for the Griffin to tap a few commands into her haptic display, allowing the rest of the bridge to hear the words of the aliens.

"Attention unknown ship, please identify yourself. You are intruding upon Arcturus space. If you do not comply, we will open fire," the words came through in Equestrian, after the translation spell formulated by Princess Twilight finished doing its job.

The captain looked over to Hilde, who nodded and tapped in a few more commands in order to start transmitting video and audio on a broad-spectrum transmission.

"Unidentified vessel, this is Captain Star Rider of the IAS Everfree, representing the Equestrian Interplanetary Alliance. We are a peaceful people on a mission of exploration, and I assure you we mean no harm. My science officer detected artificial transmissions coming from this system, and we only came to investigate. If you wish us to leave, we shall," the Captain said, hoping that these people remained reasonable.

[The Moscow Metro Red Line]

Sol System - Orbit Around Mars - Battle Group Sol - I.O.S. Relentless Zeal, Crown Prince Joseph Marx's Flagship - Audience Chamber - 2030 Earth Hours

"Our industry focuses on military equipment and engines, the colonies send the inner core raw materials and the inner core sends back manufactured goods. But our agriculture is still very good. No Ostian goes hungry." Joseph replied. Of course the Ostian economy was a command one, for decades this was the focus of Ostian industry. But because of this, other Ostian technologies are either just better or average compared to other civilizations.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fuerein System - Fuerein Fleet Starbase

To say shocked was an understatement. When the Ostians ships gathering at the starbase looked at the two titanic vessels heading to their fleet, it was incomprehensible. The xenos sent out a shuttle and landed in the hanger which was supposed to be for their own ship, should it actually fit. When the Admiral and his entourage saw the humans come out of the shuttle and greet him, she tried to maintain her posture. "Admiral Isla Baum of the Ostian Navy. Those are some impressive vessels out there. Perhaps I should ask you to join the battlegroup instead."

[Aterrian Union]

Fuerein System - Fuerein Fleet Starbase
"Thanks for the compliment, I do have to admit, the Transpire has served me well for a long time." Johnson replies.
"On the other hand, the large of the two happens to be a cargo ship carrying weapons and technology, I'll show you some if you like, but for the most part, it is unarmed and unsuitable for combat. I suggest it be used to evacuate civilians." Johnson states.
"As for joining your battlegroup, consider your assignment accepted. Just give us the coordinates and we'll be ready to take down some Xenos!" Johnson waves to an officer, who calmly walks over. With a crisp salute, the officer greets Admiral Isla Baum.
"Greeting admiral, I'm Commander Richard and I will be under your command for the time being. I'll be leading the Transpire into combat."

Arcturus 2
"Sir, we're getting a transmission back. Translating it now." The same officer from before states.
"They claim to be the Equestrian Interplanetary Alliance, and are here for exploration purposes."
"Let them pass, but invite them to meet the President back on Arcturus 1. He might want to discuss some matters." Miller replies.
"Yes sir! I'm notifying them now."
A message is sent to the Equestrians allowing them to pass, but requesting they meet the President back on Arcturus 1, the city world.

[The V O I D]

Eris smiled at Khronos’ words. They were sweet nothings, she knew, but they were sweet nothings from the man she loved and that was enough for her to trust them implicitly. His arms around her, his warmth heating her face and their baby son in his crib...this was what a perfect life was. No stress, no politics, no paperwork, just family. She got up, gently lifted Gawain out of his cot and brought him over to Khronos, laying him down between them.

“Do you know who this is?” She asked him, pointing to Khronos. Gawain’s eyes stared up innocently at his father, a hand reaching up and wrapping around Khronos’ index finger.

“That’s daddy.” Eris smiled warmly, “That’s your daddy. Your daddy.”

Gawain blinked up into Khronos’ eyes, his face void of anything but unconditional love for the person in front of him. Eris felt her heart melt again as her baby son hugged Khronos’ finger close to him, his arms wrapping lightly around it before his eyes closed and he rested his head against the nail.




Euphemia nodded at Lyson’s words, considering them. They were an indication of how much he’d changed, that he was confiding his inner feelings to her of all people, a xenos. And apologising to her for his previous actions. She knew she had every right to feel angry about it, or bitter perhaps, but she didn’t-she couldn’t. How could she, when so much good could come from those actions?

“I understand. I didn’t-and can’t-expect you to change completely in such a short space of time. Honestly, I’m amazed that you’ve gotten this far...especially with your people’s experiences.” She shuddered slightly at that, before continuing, her eye softening further, “But you don’t need to apologise for what you did, Lyson. If you hadn’t attacked me there, I’d never have had my chance to talk with you. None of this would ever have happened. You’d still be the same you that you were back then. You might even have done something worse, I don’t know. So, for what it’s worth Lyson, I think it was a good thing that you did what you did. It gave you the chance to change yourself for the better.”

The Imperator's Might
Capital Dreadnought of All Remnant Fleets
The Taari Armada / Remnant

Khronos smiled down at Gawain as he clung to Khronos' finger. He smiled at his wife, as well. It was good. Everything was... their little bundle of joy was cuddling to him. Khronos was not able to put to words how joyous he was, and so he simply kissed his wife as he sat with her and their child. He hoped this would last forever, at the same time knowing it wouldn't. But he was going to ensure every last minute was enjoyed.

Lyson nodded at Euphemia's words. She was so...accepting. Forgiving. Lyson wondered why she was so forgiving and accepting. He didn't deserve it. He was a xeno to her. Lyson stopped this train of thought before it got rolling. That was the old Lyson's way of thinking; he was the new Lyson, the one who was trying to change. That thought process simply wouldn't do. He spoke to Euphemia.

"I don't know how you can be so rational... I feel like you should, at the very least, dislike me for what I did... but... here we are, friends. At least, I consider us friends...", he said. He was trying not to overstep boundaries. Lyson didn't want to not be friends with Euphemia, but at the same time wasn't exactly sure what she thought of him, personally. She confused him, sometimes. Humans were always so confusing. Then again, most xenos were...

Displeoa System - Displeoa Fleet Starbase - 60 Hours to 61 Hours After Awakening

There was an inhuman scream coming from the bowels the Power Core center. A makeshift barricade was created around the control console and a dozen Ostians held they positions, rifles raised.

Just than all the doors into the power core center opened, and poured out the dozens and dozens of traitors. They painted their armors with strange symbols in blood, and used whatever to add to their macabre appearance.

"The All-Father welcomes all to his flock!" Yelled one of the traitors, who sped forward. The defenders had wide ranges of fire, but the question was is that did they have enough ammunition? Or did their swordsman ship skills were suitable for this kind of situation.

----------------------------------------------------
Fuerein System - Planet Fue5-X

There was a moment of silence before the Ostians responded. "You are to head to the following coordinates. Once there, you will see our Starbase. You are to dock and the Admiral will meet you shortly."

The evacuation was happening in an orderly fashion. Admiral Isla Baum was excited to be in the front-lines of this new conflict. It was better for a warrior to die in battle than old in bed. Isla Baum was fifty-seven years old, and looked forward to her death. Despite this wish, the needs of the Imperium come first. For the time being she had to use military transports to move the colonists from the planet but should these xenos prove to be cooperative...

"Admiral."

"Mmmm, yes?"

"The evacuation is 35% complete, it should be done within the week. Patrols report no highbreed activity in the system so far. But the Battle of Displeoa is ending soon according to the recent transmission. The sensor network will be completed within the hour."

Disploea System
Xarintine / Lepota / Orbit
60 to 61 Hours After Awakening

Tyrant Orava watched as the Ostian Flagship's shields came down. Perfect. Biofighters swarmed it, firing Burrowing-Seedbombs unto it; essentially, drop pods made of biomass that ate through metal in a horrifyingly easy and efficient manner. The Seedbombs would release spores to infect those unfortunate enough to be near where the Burrowers slammed into. Orava was a bit annoyed at the drop pods, sending Highbreed soldiers to investigate. The weakminded Cultists were beginning to take the nearby starbase; good. That meant there was no place to regroup or retreat to. And as far as the scanners and Allmind's psionics showed, no reinforcements were here as of yet. That meant these leftover Ostians were all theirs.

Orava decided it was a good idea to keep the momentum rolling in the favor of the Highbreed - the longer the momentum moved in their favor, the better chances of making this a successful feeding. Orava sent psionic messages to the followers of the "All-Father." The message was broadcast in an extremely strong manner, being more of a command than it was a suggestion; and he spoke using the Allmind's voice to them all, to entertain their fantasy that the Allmind had made for them. He almost chuckled as he did this.

"Followers of the All-Father, heed my call. I am the All-Father's Voice; and you shall listen. For peace, for happiness, for heaven. You must take some of the All-Father's Children, and bring them into nearby systems. You must bring these Children to populated worlds, the more people the better. This is to spread the glory of the All-Father throughout the galaxy, and bring the peace and happiness to all. Do this, and the All-Father will reward you greatly!", Orava chanted. It was a bit loud in the psionic spectrum, so all weakminded in the system could hear it for sure; but some of the strongerminded might have heard it as well, and would see through the trick, and probably realize why the traitors were doing what they were doing. After doing this, Orava sent Seedships (Bioships with tons of Spores, etc) toward the Starbase and other Cultist-captured ships, for them to take and leave with. Orava's mouth curled into an evil smile.

Kalchata Orbit

The Maug-Lai Armada continued their glassing operations against the highbreed on the planet. Large swaths of land on the planet now glowed a bright orange due to the bombardments. The planet's temperature began to rise to incredibly high levels, turning the oceans into boiling water, killing what little sea life remained. The perma frost in the polar regions began to melt, releasing extreme amounts of methane into the atmosphere. Under these conditions, nothing except the most resilient, microbial organism could survive, but the High Breed was different. Despite this, scans still showed vast amounts of the parasites on the planet, taking refuge in the deep catacombs underneath the surface.

Aboard the Carrier"Blade of Marsolis", the crew was preparing the Ventral Beam Cannon for another bombardment. Warlord Akono put the coordinates into the targeting system and gave the order to commence with firing. The target was a peninsula on the planet's southern continent. Once green with lush rainforests, now was a dark red, all life absorbed into the High Breed. Within seconds, plasma beams from the Carrier and 3 near by Battle Cruisers pierced through the atmosphere and burned the peninsula below. Plasma enveloped the peninsula, burning everything in its way. The ships stopped their firing, the newly glassed area burned brightly before cooling into a orange glow, like many areas on the rest of the planet.

For the past few hours, countless Warlords had been calling in, pledging their loyalty to the Highest Warlord, or atleast until the High Breed was hunted down to extinction. Maug-Lai Warbands of all kinds were lining up to fight the High Breed. Some of them were already aligned with King Salog and would have joined the fight regardless, but many came only for the Legolo-Sa. Blood Hunts were always great uniters of the Maug-Lai, bringing them together to fight a common enemy or dangerous species. Despite them being calls for unity, Legolo-Sa's are also some of the most bloody parts of Maug-Lai history. As a Legolo-Sa comes to an end, and the last enemy has been killed, the once unified army usually fracture into their old alliances and turn on one another. Usually, each warlord musters all of their strength not for the last kill of the hunt, but for the first kill of "peacetime."

Salog stood at the Hologram projector, speaking to the large Maug-Lai being displayed over it. The creature was large, even for a Maug-Lai. On his back was a large Maug-Lai War Scythe. He carried a Maug-Lai Plasma SMG at his side, in case the scythe failed for some reason. He wore a black EVA suit, typical of Maug-Lai living on un-terraformed fringe worlds and Asteroid Mining Colonies. The suit obscured his face, only barely allowing sight of the Maug-Lai within it through the glowing red eyeholes. The suit was covered in Maug-Lai War paintings, blending Federation technology, and Maug-Lai culture.

"While we in the Hera Nebula Clique have no love for you or your bastardized Dynasty, we will answer the call for a Legolo-Sa. Our fleet is mobilizing as we speak and we will share some of the spoils of the nebula with you until the Hunt has come to an end." The Warlord said.

"Many thanks. As a sign of cooperation, The Armada will turn a blind eye to your more..."unsavory" activities with Dalga Drug Traffickers. While the Federation Congress will of course object and issue sanctions against us, our representatives will make sure to block any moves. I assume that you'll use the Dalga representatives you have paid off to back us as well." Salog said, the Clique Warlord puffed out steam from his suit.

"Correct, but in the future, remember to not assume things. This Legolo-Sa will not last forever." The Clique logged off, Salog gave a sigh of relief. It was irritating having to deal with the passive aggression and two faced messages from Warlords that wanted him dead. As he turned away, the Comms Analyst got another signal.

"Highest Warlord, we're receiving another message." Salog groaned.

"Tell whatever Yokel Warlord it is that we've encountered an issue that requires my attention." The Comms Analyst pressed the issue.

"It's coming from our Embassy on Jakala. It's coming from Highest War Lady Katja." Salogs ears perked up. He turned back to the Hologram projector to see the Hologram of his wife standing before him.

"So, tell this Yokel Warlord what issue was so dire?" Katja said with an annoyed tone. Salog tried to change the subject.

"Katja, what is the news from Jakala?" Katja blew out air still annoyed by her husbands previous comment.

"What do you think? Both the Federation Lord of Admirals and Lord of Generals have come by the embassy demanding for me to tell you to call off what they call "overzealous hunting trip in the Fringe". They're only concerned because thousands of Maug-Lai are resigning from the Federation Military and flocking back to whatever
Warlord they came from so that they can take part in the blood hunt."

"They'll get over it. Maybe this will push the other races to carry their own weight." Salog said.

"Have any of the Fringe Warlords refused to join the hunt?"

"And have their bloodlines be branded cowards? No one would that stupid. In fact, they've been contacting me in droves, pledging their commitment to the Blood Hunt." Salog scoffed.

"Probably just to put themselves in a good position to strike once the hunt is at an end. So far, The Hera Nebula Clique, Sons of Khaja, and the Void Pack, along with countless lesser Warlords are enroute to join the hunt."

"Great, Narcotic makers, religious fanatics, pirates, and every yokel warlord grasping for power. I predict a lot of bloodshed due to incompetence."

"Will you be joining in? Since your a female, you only have to take part if there isn't a male to take your place." Katja scoffed at the idea.

"I know haw a Legolo-Sa works. I took part in the Blood Hunt for the Dredge Worms of the Marsolis moons, remember? Besides, like I'd leave the task of organizing you males to some lesser War Lady. My fleet is rallied here over Jakala. I'd leave immediately, but I have matters to finish here before I can leave."

"Who will be taking your place as Maug-Lai Ambassador?" Salog asked.

"Our daughter, Sindra. I figured she could use the experience. It won't be much, just navigating through the rabble. All she'll have to do is listen to the ramblings of Taani Representives about "Unity between the species in the Federation" and join a few Tagali hunts. In fact, I fear it will be rather boring for her." Suddenly, a crew member spoke on the intercom of the ship.

"Highest Warlord, a ship is coming out of FTL in the system. It's signature is unknown."

"I have to see who's entering a warzone unannounced. Hail me when you're enter the system." Salog shut off the hologram and returned to the bridge. When he returned, everything seemed the same as usual. The Armada continued glassing the planet. Salog walked up to Akono.

"What is the problem?"

"We've detected an unknown ship coming into the system. Word has definitely spread by now that this system is a warzone, who would come here?" Suddenly, within a second, the ship came out of FTL. It was Kandalla-Class Light Corvette, the smallest of the Tagali Federation's ships, or any ship of the Member species. This one was different, however. Instead of the White and blue color pallet that most ships in the Federation Navy dawned, this one was entirely black. It lacked the standard weaponry of a Kandalla Corvette as well, only armed with a MAC gun and two defense batteries.

It also lacked any naming or any designation on it. The only thing displaying its allegiance was the Tagali coat of arms on the side of the ship. The ship sped past the Maug-Lai Armada, going straight for the Federation Fleet.

"Talverian Vengeance", Tagali Federation 12th Patrol Fleet Flag ship

Rear-Admiral Tila monitored the situation. The Federation Fleet had mostly left the fighting to the Maug-Lai. To them, their mission was finished. They had helped Salog in destroying Okalar's fleet over the planet and had crippled his bases on the planet. These creatures, this "High Breed" was just a nuisance that the Maug-Lai were content with dealing with on their own. Never the less, they stayed, just in case the situation took a turn for the worst.

"Rear-Admiral, a Kandalla-Class Corvette has entered the system, its ID is heavily encrypted and their trying to hail us." Said one of the Comms Analysts.

"Answer, maybe they'd be able to tell us what we're exactly dealing with here." A hologram of the Ship's Captain appeared before her.

"Greetings, I am Commander Kamin Ol-Lagan of the Federal Intelligence Society. We've come to collect two operatives you have in your possession. We'll dipatch a shuttle to pick them up."

"Talverian Vengeance" Rec Hall

Ever since they gotten back onto the "Talverian Vengeance", Temir and Keeva had been barraged with questions from the soldiers and crew members about what they witnessed down on the surface. Some of them were simply curious as to what this new species was, not knowing of the horrors that the High Breed could unleash. Most of these naive ones were rookies. The Veterans however, were more weary. Most of them had fought Fringe Groups in the past, some made up of Aliens that had aligned with the colonials for whatever reason. Some of them were even veterans of the Maug-Lai Wars or the Yongmee First Contact Skirmishes. They dreaded another first contact conflict, and seeing 2 million Maug-Lai soldiers massacred and returned from the dead to fight their comrades in a matter of hours was worrying.

The Rec Hall had returned to normal now, the crew returned to their duties or went on to do something else. Yongmee engineers flew around to various points in the ship. Their wings creating a low hum. Temir was catching up on sleep and failing while Keeva read an old collection of Taani Folk tales on her datapad. Their activities were interrupted by Tila's voice coming over the Intercomm.

Operatives Temir Yol-Vaneer and Kiiva La'Chakas. Please report to the Hangar Bay." The two were surprised by the sudden command but followed it anyway and made their way to the Hangar. When they got there, they were greeted by an unusual sight, at least in this day and age. by the FIS shuttle was a tall, Tagali Cyborg, a relic of the 100 year Tagali Civil War. he seemed more machine than Tagali, though. The only organic part of him visible was his head. Even then, he had a synthetic blue left eye, contrasting with his right red eye. the rest of his body was synthetic as well, made up of titanium and a variety of other metals.

On his chest was a faded out emblem of a Kelgar head with two crossed swords behind it. Under it had something written in Kandallan, the local language on the planet of Kandalla.Temir had difficulty translating it, but eventually figured it out.

"Kandal Troga Trongii, Kandallan Death Troopers. Never thought I'd meet a Augment Soldier in the Flesh, or metal that is. Especially a Outer System one." He thought. The Augment Soldier walked towards them. He spoke in a thick Kandallan accent.

"Greetings, I am Yandalle Jul-Tazane. I have been instructed to escort you to the "Archus"."The two operatives followed the Cyborg on to the shuttle. As soon as they were onboard, the shuttle departed for the Corvette. Once the Shuttle was safely in its hangar, the Corvette left as soon as it came into the system. Shortly after the Corvette left, the Tagali fleet came under fire from something on the surface. several ships were destroyed on impact, even the "Talverian Vengeance" Took a massive blow to the shields, almost causing them to give way.

"What in Kagan's name was that!?" Tila yelled.

"The High Breed has taken control of a set of Planetary Defense Batteries located on an atoll near the equator!" Yelled one of the Bridge Ensigns. This was a surprise for Tila. The "Blades of Okalar" had very little in the way heavy firepower. What they did have was quickly destroyed during the opening hours of the 1st battle of Kalchata. the crew of this installation must have been ordered elsewhere during the battle, or this base would have met the same fate. Tila wasn't going to just let them turn her fleet to slag.

"So, damn Tarlacks want to steal toys from others. Well, let's teach them a lesson in Tagali discipline. fire MAC rounds!" Two MAC rounds left the ship and began their descent towards their target. The first round collided with one of the Batteries, while the second hit a second one. The force of the two rounds completely destroyed the main island in the atoll. the collisions also caused tremors where they hit, creating a tsunami that swallowed the rest of the atoll and destroying the other batteries in the process.

"Batteries have been neutralized Ma'am. Battle Group Tagrii has been completely destroyed, as well as Battle group Tagrin. Halva and Gongu are reporting heavy casualties!"

"Order the fleet to begin scanning for any other surprises that Okalar was too dumb to use. Kill on sight!"

Kalchata System
Tagali Federation

The Allmind was not amused. These Tagali were more resourceful than first thought; they were ensuring that It would be sealed. Or, they hoped It would be. It was almost done creating a Bioship with the biomass thus far collected. A single Bioship wouldn't fair very well, and so It was trying to ensure the Bioship was as large as It could afford to make it. It growled a rumbling growl. How could these fools stand up to It? It had to act, fast. It had not the psionic strength necessary, as of yet. It decided that the best course of action would be to see how this ended; for It had no other options, at the moment.

If only It had more biomass. If only. It would have the psionic strength necessary to control this... Federation's weakerminded, like It did with the Ostians. Nonetheless, It decided that It could still gain victory. For while they fought here, they were oblivious to It's presence in the Disploea System. It would be allowed to fester and grow through the galaxy and attack the Federation regardless of if they halted It here. It was satisfied with this, but still kept trying to think of a new strategy It could use to begin having a victory in this system. Having a two front invasion, in the past, had spread the species thin. Perhaps It could do so again, but that seemed unlikely.

[The Greater Gambia]

Hawksin and Stien looked impressed. "Powerful technology. have your race always been this proficient in weaponry?" Hawksin asked.

New Talveria
Lethox slithered out of his shuttle, and activated his anti-grav pack, floating to face height of Lahira. "Thank you, I'm glad to be here." Lethox replied, giving his signature bow, a smile on his small face. "I find myself having to thank you once again for what you're doing." he continued.

"The pleasure is all mine. Now shall we go in?" The two made their way to the large door way leading into the Banquet Hall.

"Now, before we enter, I must warn you of some mistakes you should avoid. As you've seen, the Federation is a multi species entity. Many of the people are representatives of their various species and planets. If you wish to gain support for gaining your people a home, you must respect their cultural edicts. Now, you probably won't encounter many, but the Maug-Lai can be.... Difficult to deal with, to say the least. First of all, never look a Maug-Lai in the eye. They view it as if your challenging them. Only Tagali and Taani are able to look them in the eye because we've been to war with them and won. They view us as equals, more or less.

The next species to be weary of is the Dalga. For now, don't let any of them talk you into anything. Some may mean well, others may see you mearly as a tool to be exploited. Other than that, stay away from anyone from the Tagali First Party. They're nothing but a bunch of xenophobic aristocrats. It sickens me to call them my own people, but of course, they haven't broken the law, yet. The Taani shouldn't bother you much. They'll be more curious about you than fearful. Same with the Valonians. The Yongmee will have one envoy from their main hive, but they don't talk to many. It'd be a miracle if they did to you."

[Osnil]

Pravada
"I find it shameless what the Ostians have done. It's despicable. I also owe them for the dead Commonwealth soldiers in previous wars, and in my last Commonwealth Battle," Kale replied, "that, and you looked like you needed some help."

[The Dark Brotherhood of Deros]

Hawksin and Stien looked impressed. "Powerful technology. have your race always been this proficient in weaponry?" Hawksin asked.

New Talveria
Lethox slithered out of his shuttle, and activated his anti-grav pack, floating to face height of Lahira. "Thank you, I'm glad to be here." Lethox replied, giving his signature bow, a smile on his small face. "I find myself having to thank you once again for what you're doing." he continued.

"The pleasure is all mine. Now shall we go in?" The two made their way to the large door way leading into the Banquet Hall.

"Now, before we enter, I must warn you of some mistakes you should avoid. As you've seen, the Federation is a multi species entity. Many of the people are representatives of their various species and planets. If you wish to gain support for gaining your people a home, you must respect their cultural edicts. Now, you probably won't encounter many, but the Maug-Lai can be.... Difficult to deal with, to say the least. First of all, never look a Maug-Lai in the eye. They view it as if your challenging them. Only Tagali and Taani are able to look them in the eye because we've been to war with them and won. They view us as equals, more or less.

The next species to be weary of is the Dalga. For now, don't let any of them talk you into anything. Some may mean well, others may see you mearly as a tool to be exploited. Other than that, stay away from anyone from the Tagali First Party. They're nothing but a bunch of xenophobic aristocrats. It sickens me to call them my own people, but of course, they haven't broken the law, yet. The Taani shouldn't bother you much. They'll be more curious about you than fearful. Same with the Valonians. The Yongmee will have one envoy from their main hive, but they don't talk to many. It'd be a miracle if they did to you."

Lethox nodded. what had he gotten himself into? "I understand. well then, this should be interesting." He said, drawing a deep breath. he turned to the door. "Lets go then."

[Equestria and its Principalities]

Arcturus 2
"Sir, we're getting a transmission back. Translating it now." The same officer from before states.
"They claim to be the Equestrian Interplanetary Alliance, and are here for exploration purposes."
"Let them pass, but invite them to meet the President back on Arcturus 1. He might want to discuss some matters." Miller replies.
"Yes sir! I'm notifying them now."
A message is sent to the Equestrians allowing them to pass, but requesting they meet the President back on Arcturus 1, the city world.

"Sir, they've invited us--you--to speak with their President," Hilde said, her brow furrowing slightly as she wondered why they didn't just have the commanding officer speak with Captain Rider. The Captain held the same rank as any ambassador would--it was required in order to be a captain in the Lunar Fleet--but he wasn't qualified to speak on behalf of the alliance. Only the Princesses held that kind of power.

A similar thought was going through Star's head as he bit the inside of his lip, considering the political ramifications if he did or said something that didn't fall in line with what the Princesses wanted. "Comms, send a missive to Equis, priority one. Inform them of these developments and request one of the Princesses come out as soon as possible. Also, tell these Arcturans that, while I appreciate the invitation, I am not qualified to speak on behalf of my nation to the leader of theirs. Tell them that one of the Princesses is on the way, and that in the meantime we ask for a... cultural exchange. Ask if any of their officers would like to come aboard, tour the ship. No need to be unfriendly, right?" he asked, shooting the comms officer a smile before turning to his XO.

Commander Apple simply gave him a look, a raised eyebrow sending all the message he needed sent. This would definitely be interesting.

[Theyra]

Hawksin and Stien looked impressed. "Powerful technology. have your race always been this proficient in weaponry?" Hawksin asked.

New Talveria
Lethox slithered out of his shuttle, and activated his anti-grav pack, floating to face height of Lahira. "Thank you, I'm glad to be here." Lethox replied, giving his signature bow, a smile on his small face. "I find myself having to thank you once again for what you're doing." he continued.

"The pleasure is all mine. Now shall we go in?" The two made their way to the large door way leading into the Banquet Hall.

"Now, before we enter, I must warn you of some mistakes you should avoid. As you've seen, the Federation is a multi species entity. Many of the people are representatives of their various species and planets. If you wish to gain support for gaining your people a home, you must respect their cultural edicts. Now, you probably won't encounter many, but the Maug-Lai can be.... Difficult to deal with, to say the least. First of all, never look a Maug-Lai in the eye. They view it as if your challenging them. Only Tagali and Taani are able to look them in the eye because we've been to war with them and won. They view us as equals, more or less.

The next species to be weary of is the Dalga. For now, don't let any of them talk you into anything. Some may mean well, others may see you mearly as a tool to be exploited. Other than that, stay away from anyone from the Tagali First Party. They're nothing but a bunch of xenophobic aristocrats. It sickens me to call them my own people, but of course, they haven't broken the law, yet. The Taani shouldn't bother you much. They'll be more curious about you than fearful. Same with the Valonians. The Yongmee will have one envoy from their main hive, but they don't talk to many. It'd be a miracle if they did to you."

The Coalition dropship lands at the landing pad". Captain Solia leaves the dropship first, and is followed by Master Osan and a squad of marines. Solia and Osan appeared to been in somewhat formal attire and the marines in a relax but, ready stance. The group heads to to door leading to the banquet hall.

[Aterrian Union]

Arcturus 2
"Sir, we have received a message from the xeno ship. They are asking for a "cultural exchange" as they call it." An officer states.
"Alright then, send chief scientist Kurama and SPARTAN unit 118." Miller replies.
Before long, Kurama and 118 have reported to the command center.
"You called for us sir." Kurama says matter of factly.
"Yes I did Kurama." Miller replies. "You and 118 are to enter this new vessel and tour it, take notes of what you see and introduce some of our concepts."
"General, Permission to speak." 118 says.
"Granted 118."
"What if these xenos prove dangerous?" 118 asks with concern.
"Then eliminate them and teleport out immediately. I doubt that they will act aggressive though, we do outnumber them by far."
With that , Chief Kurama and 118 request permission to teleport on board.
picture of 118:
https://www.google.com/search?q=halo+forerunner+combat+skin&rlz=1C9BKJA_enUS594US594&hl=en-US&prmd=isvn&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjqu-6ilrzJAhUQPogKHUFSDn4Q_AUIBygB#imgrc=JGGUk4YeUBNn_M%3A

[The Greater Gambia]

"The pleasure is all mine. Now shall we go in?" The two made their way to the large door way leading into the Banquet Hall.

"Now, before we enter, I must warn you of some mistakes you should avoid. As you've seen, the Federation is a multi species entity. Many of the people are representatives of their various species and planets. If you wish to gain support for gaining your people a home, you must respect their cultural edicts. Now, you probably won't encounter many, but the Maug-Lai can be.... Difficult to deal with, to say the least. First of all, never look a Maug-Lai in the eye. They view it as if your challenging them. Only Tagali and Taani are able to look them in the eye because we've been to war with them and won. They view us as equals, more or less.

The next species to be weary of is the Dalga. For now, don't let any of them talk you into anything. Some may mean well, others may see you mearly as a tool to be exploited. Other than that, stay away from anyone from the Tagali First Party. They're nothing but a bunch of xenophobic aristocrats. It sickens me to call them my own people, but of course, they haven't broken the law, yet. The Taani shouldn't bother you much. They'll be more curious about you than fearful. Same with the Valonians. The Yongmee will have one envoy from their main hive, but they don't talk to many. It'd be a miracle if they did to you."

Lethox nodded. what had he gotten himself into? "I understand. well then, this should be interesting." He said, drawing a deep breath. he turned to the door. "Lets go then."

The two entered the Banquet hall. The room was filled with representatives of various species. A live band was playing traditional Tagali music near a large hologram displaying a representation of the Todval System. Around the room, laughter and talking filled the air. Some catching up with old friends, others schmoozing up to higher officials to increase their standing.

Lahira then heard the arguing of familiar voices. She turned to find both the Lord of Generals and the Lord of Admirals arguing with Katja, the Maug-Lai Ambassador and her daughter. Lahira motioned for Lethox to follow her.

"So, we're suppose to just let 10 million soldiers walk off to join Salog's hunt, then?" Exclaimed the Lord of Generals.

"That is Highest Warlord to you! During the war, I remember you and many other Tagali boasting how you didn't have to rely on numbers to win battles." Katja said.

"That was before we had to patrol and secure multiple systems. Before, we only had to deal small pirate bands in the asteroid belts. Now, we have to deal with hostile Fringe planets, Rogue Maug-Lai Warlords, and now some parasite, that I might add, your people unleashed!" The Lord of Admirals said.

"It's a sight to see you two agreeing on something. What is the matter here?" Lahira asked.

"Your military generals have lost their backbone. They seem more like quivering Taani than Tagali. They expect the Maug-Lai to fight their battles for them." Katja said

"Either way. General, Admiral. Do you really think this is the venue to air these grievances?" Lahira asked. The two Tagali men backed down and left in a fit, but they knew that they weren't going to get their way if Lahira backed them. Katja turned to Lethox.

"So, is this the Ka'jalli that everyone is speaking of?"

Meanwhile...

At the entrance of the banquet hall. Captain Solia and his group were stopped by two guards.

"Excuse me, can I get your names? Also, I'm going to have to ask you that your men leave their weapons here."

[Theyra]

Lethox nodded. what had he gotten himself into? "I understand. well then, this should be interesting." He said, drawing a deep breath. he turned to the door. "Lets go then."

The two entered the Banquet hall. The room was filled with representatives of various species. A live band was playing traditional Tagali music near a large hologram displaying a representation of the Todval System. Around the room, laughter and talking filled the air. Some catching up with old friends, others schmoozing up to higher officials to increase their standing.

Lahira then heard the arguing of familiar voices. She turned to find both the Lord of Generals and the Lord of Admirals arguing with Katja, the Maug-Lai Ambassador and her daughter. Lahira motioned for Lethox to follow her.

"So, we're suppose to just let 10 million soldiers walk off to join Salog's hunt, then?" Exclaimed the Lord of Generals.

"That is Highest Warlord to you! During the war, I remember you and many other Tagali boasting how you didn't have to rely on numbers to win battles." Katja said.

"That was before we had to patrol and secure multiple systems. Before, we only had to deal small pirate bands in the asteroid belts. Now, we have to deal with hostile Fringe planets, Rogue Maug-Lai Warlords, and now some parasite, that I might add, your people unleashed!" The Lord of Admirals said.

"It's a sight to see you two agreeing on something. What is the matter here?" Lahira asked.

"Your military generals have lost their backbone. They seem more like quivering Taani than Tagali. They expect the Maug-Lai to fight their battles for them." Katja said

"Either way. General, Admiral. Do you really think this is the venue to air these grievances?" Lahira asked. The two Tagali men backed down and left in a fit, but they knew that they weren't going to get their way if Lahira backed them. Katja turned to Lethox.

"So, is this the Ka'jalli that everyone is speaking of?"

Meanwhile...

At the entrance of the banquet hall. Captain Solia and his group were stopped by two guards.

"Excuse me, can I get your names? Also, I'm going to have to ask you that your men leave their weapons here."

I'm Captain Solia of the Vryr'yks Coalition and this is, she points to Master Osan, "this is my adviser to xeno relations, Master Osan"."And about the guards...... through protocol dictates that they are with us at all times and I don't think they will give up their weapons". "Solia sighs, "Sergeant, have your men stay at the landing pad with two of them with us."

"Solia that's...., he sighs irritatingly. "And he collects the weapons from two of the marines and sends the others back with the weapons, "But, if there is any sign of trouble, we will storm the place to get you two out". And the Sergeant goes back to the landing pad.

"Now can we enter ? Solia asked the guards.

[The Greater Gambia]

The two entered the Banquet hall. The room was filled with representatives of various species. A live band was playing traditional Tagali music near a large hologram displaying a representation of the Todval System. Around the room, laughter and talking filled the air. Some catching up with old friends, others schmoozing up to higher officials to increase their standing.

Lahira then heard the arguing of familiar voices. She turned to find both the Lord of Generals and the Lord of Admirals arguing with Katja, the Maug-Lai Ambassador and her daughter. Lahira motioned for Lethox to follow her.

"So, we're suppose to just let 10 million soldiers walk off to join Salog's hunt, then?" Exclaimed the Lord of Generals.

"That is Highest Warlord to you! During the war, I remember you and many other Tagali boasting how you didn't have to rely on numbers to win battles." Katja said.

"That was before we had to patrol and secure multiple systems. Before, we only had to deal small pirate bands in the asteroid belts. Now, we have to deal with hostile Fringe planets, Rogue Maug-Lai Warlords, and now some parasite, that I might add, your people unleashed!" The Lord of Admirals said.

"It's a sight to see you two agreeing on something. What is the matter here?" Lahira asked.

"Your military generals have lost their backbone. They seem more like quivering Taani than Tagali. They expect the Maug-Lai to fight their battles for them." Katja said

"Either way. General, Admiral. Do you really think this is the venue to air these grievances?" Lahira asked. The two Tagali men backed down and left in a fit, but they knew that they weren't going to get their way if Lahira backed them. Katja turned to Lethox.

"So, is this the Ka'jalli that everyone is speaking of?"

Meanwhile...

At the entrance of the banquet hall. Captain Solia and his group were stopped by two guards.

"Excuse me, can I get your names? Also, I'm going to have to ask you that your men leave their weapons here."

I'm Captain Solia of the Vryr'yks Coalition and this is, she points to Master Osan, "this is my adviser to xeno relations, Master Osan"."And about the guards...... through protocol dictates that they are with us at all times and I don't think they will give up their weapons". "Solia sighs, "Sergeant, have your men stay at the landing pad with two of them with us."

"Solia that's...., he sighs irritatingly. "And he collects the weapons from two of the marines and sends the others back with the weapons, "But, if there is any sign of trouble, we will storm the place to get you two out". And the Sergeant goes back to the landing pad.

"Now can we enter ? Solia asked the guards.

The soldier looked to his fellow guard. The second soldier looked down to his data pad, scanning through the list.

"You're on the list. Go on in and enjoy your stay."

[Theyra]

I'm Captain Solia of the Vryr'yks Coalition and this is, she points to Master Osan, "this is my adviser to xeno relations, Master Osan"."And about the guards...... through protocol dictates that they are with us at all times and I don't think they will give up their weapons". "Solia sighs, "Sergeant, have your men stay at the landing pad with two of them with us."

"Solia that's...., he sighs irritatingly. "And he collects the weapons from two of the marines and sends the others back with the weapons, "But, if there is any sign of trouble, we will storm the place to get you two out". And the Sergeant goes back to the landing pad.

"Now can we enter ? Solia asked the guards.

The soldier looked to his fellow guard. The second soldier looked down to his data pad, scanning through the list.

"You're on the list. Go on in and enjoy your stay."

"Good then". Solia, Osan and the two marines, go through the doors and enter the Banquet hall.

(Solia is female and Osan is male and the difference between male and female is very noticeable like humans. And if the name sounds male than that is my fault and I'm not good up with names and what they sound like when I make them.)

[Theyra]

----------------------------------------------------
Displeoa System - Heading Towards Lepota - Between Vryi and Lepota - 60 Hours to 61 Hours After Awakening

The Battlesuits began to engage in their own battle with the biofighters. A few were shot down by the initial barrage of the bioship, and the rest were tied up by the biofighters. In a few minutes, the eight Styx battlesuits came out of the hanger and clasped their hands together, forming a circle. They immeidatly engaged their engines, and speed quickly across the battlegroup and sped past the outer perimeter of the bio fleet encirclement. While the Styxs were fast by themselves, when they combined their engine power, they became faster, rivaling even the fastest starships.

The shields failed and the hull began taking a beating. Admiral Specht watched as his flagship exploded around him, despite this dismal situation, he was still sitting in his command chair. "Continue our barrage, we will remain undeterred. Alert security to prepare anti-boarding operations. Alert the Chief Munitions officer to prepare for our back-up."

The Undying Light, the battlecrusier which supported the Morbid Angel, began firing all its boarding pods at the unique bioships. The boarding pods passed through the Ostian shielding and exploded all along the hull, about six pods in total.

----------------------------------------------------
Displeoa System - Displeoa Fleet Starbase - 60 Hours to 61 Hours After Awakening

There was an inhuman scream coming from the bowels the Power Core center. A makeshift barricade was created around the control console and a dozen Ostians held they positions, rifles raised.

Just than all the doors into the power core center opened, and poured out the dozens and dozens of traitors. They painted their armors with strange symbols in blood, and used whatever to add to their macabre appearance.

"The All-Father welcomes all to his flock!" Yelled one of the traitors, who sped forward. The defenders had wide ranges of fire, but the question was is that did they have enough ammunition? Or did their swordsman ship skills were suitable for this kind of situation.

Displeoa Fleet Starbase
Captian Vos along with the loyal Ostians, opened fire on the traitors. And the ones in front get mowed down and fall down dead. "Don't let these traitors pass, hold this position till your last breath" "The broadcast must be sent".Plus the observers drones are uncloaked in the back and help with the defenders with their plasma guns.


CNED Enduring Legacy
"Sir we have detected a something moving from the battle, it's moving very fast and past the Hivebreed ships".

"Contact the admiral now","Admiral Specht we have detected something trying to get out of the encirclement, if it's is one of yours than we will not engage and if needed help it escape the system"."And my men aboard the station will make sure that the station does fall before the broadcast is sent".

....................................................

"Again we thank you." The Harndarians left shorty after.

After the Harndarians left the ship, the Resurgence sends a message to the Harndarians. "I have contacted our government and trade ships will arrive within five days but, only our trade ships will handle the trading because of protocol"." Don't take it personally for we just are cautious and we had very unpleasant dealings with xenos in the past".

[Equestria and its Principalities]

Arcturus 2
"Sir, we have received a message from the xeno ship. They are asking for a "cultural exchange" as they call it." An officer states.
"Alright then, send chief scientist Kurama and SPARTAN unit 118." Miller replies.
Before long, Kurama and 118 have reported to the command center.
"You called for us sir." Kurama says matter of factly.
"Yes I did Kurama." Miller replies. "You and 118 are to enter this new vessel and tour it, take notes of what you see and introduce some of our concepts."
"General, Permission to speak." 118 says.
"Granted 118."
"What if these xenos prove dangerous?" 118 asks with concern.
"Then eliminate them and teleport out immediately. I doubt that they will act aggressive though, we do outnumber them by far."
With that , Chief Kurama and 118 request permission to teleport on board.
picture of 118:
https://www.google.com/search?q=halo+forerunner+combat+skin&rlz=1C9BKJA_enUS594US594&hl=en-US&prmd=isvn&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjqu-6ilrzJAhUQPogKHUFSDn4Q_AUIBygB#imgrc=JGGUk4YeUBNn_M%3A

"Do you have a lock on their officer's coordinates?" Rider asked the transporter technician, receiving a quick nod in response as the young unicorn put in some last-minute calculations to ensure that everything went smoothly. On the other bridge, beneath the feet of the two officers that had been invited over, a many-runed arcane circle appeared beneath their feet before a golden bubble formed around them, winking them out of existence and transferring them to the pad on the bridge of the Everfree, both of them facing two equines that stood at about four feet in height.

Rider's nostrils flared for a moment in surprise at the alien's height, and the fact that one of them was in such heavy armor, before he put on his best political smile and extended a hoof for the other to bump. "Greetings, and welcome to the IAS Everfree. I am Captain Star Rider, and this is my XO, Commander Johnathan Apple," he said, the muted red Earth Pony offering a smart salute to the two before extending his own hoof in greeting. "It is good to meet you."

[The Dark Brotherhood of Deros]

Lethox faced Katja. "I'm not familiar with that term. but if you mean I'm a member of the new species your people encountered, then yes. My name is Lethox, Captain of the Generation. pleased to make your acquaintance." Lethox replied, giving his little bow.

[The Greater Gambia]

Lethox faced Katja. "I'm not familiar with that term. but if you mean I'm a member of the new species your people encountered, then yes. My name is Lethox, Captain of the Generation. pleased to make your acquaintance." Lethox replied, giving his little bow.

Katja smirked.

"My, my aren't you a polite one. Already, you're leagues better than most of the rabble around here. I am Katja of the Mulkava tribe. Ruler of the twin moons and Highest Warlady of the Maug-Lai Kingdom. Anyway, Ka'jalli "wandering one: in the tongue of the Mulkava.

[The Dark Brotherhood of Deros]

Lethox faced Katja. "I'm not familiar with that term. but if you mean I'm a member of the new species your people encountered, then yes. My name is Lethox, Captain of the Generation. pleased to make your acquaintance." Lethox replied, giving his little bow.

Katja smirked.

"My, my aren't you a polite one. Already, you're leagues better than most of the rabble around here. I am Katja of the Mulkava tribe. Ruler of the twin moons and Highest Warlady of the Maug-Lai Kingdom. Anyway, Ka'jalli "wandering one: in the tongue of the Mulkava.

Lethox nodded. "Ah, I understand now." He said. "And politeness is customary among my people. we find it leads to a much more happy life than one of rudeness." He continued, putting his arms to his side.