Depths of Space (IC, OPEN, FT)

[The United Tributational Territories]

"Wow...so you live with this awful disease...which can show up at any time...with no way to stop it. You're forced to kill your own people. I'm so so sorry. I know the feeling. Florans can start the same thing, if they can get close to a person. But yours...it just shows up. I'm so sorry." John pushed his hair back in disbelief. He sighed and said, "Quickly mutating diseases can be stopped, if we are able to shut down the core mutating gene. We will work on a cure, if you can give us a specimen."

"I thank you for your sympathy, and to help us find a cure. My only worry is the Ostian."

"Yes...wait. He can be our specimen. We don't need to hunt down the Mad Men, we just need the Imperium to let us research him. This incident could mean a cure." John's face said it all. If the Imperium was willing to help, they could have the cure out in a matter of months.

[Harndar]

CNED Resurgence
Hyperspace

Captain Yryln was thinking about his decision to head towards the current system. Based on the origin ship's information, it would make more sense to head towards this "Sol" system since that they actually had some information about it's inhabitants and some degree of what to expect. But, there was a some information indicting a small chance of a alien presence in another system in the region and Yryln decided to see if there was a chance of a alien civilization in this system before heading to the Sol system.

Sir we are going to enter the system in five minutes , said one of the navigators.

Yryln stood up from his chair. Okay, navigators based on the information in the database. I want us to not engaged the cloak when we enter but, have weapons and shields ready. Comm specialists, you to scan for any traces of alien communications and tell me as soon as you find one. And if we don't we find any alien comms, then we will start to scan the planets to see if there was a alien civilization in this system. And if there are no traces then we will make a report of our findings sent them back to command and continue to the "Sol" system.

Yes sir, the bridge crew relied.

Sir, we are going to enter the system the system in three, two, one.

The Resurgence exits hyperspace and appears near the outermost planet.

The Harndarian Space Command, Rolm
"Sir! We've got another alien signature coming into range!" One of the crew that were working on monitoring Rolm's space for strange movement said, he seemed to be tired and hate to drink a lot of coffee
The Conmander of the sector stood up,"Welp, you guys know the drill. Send the Defense Platforms to defend the inner planets, let's hope that they might be nice."
---
Harndarian Space
The Defense Platforms looked like a trapoid the flew vertically and were decked out on weapons. It seemed as is there were over 90 of them, probably even more, scattered around the inner planets, but they were more clustered near what seemed to be their territory, which is around where what seemed to be the last inner planet of the solar system.
A message was sent on all channels.

This is The Harndarian Space Command, you have enter UIPRH territory, state your name and business.

[Harndar]

"I thank you for your sympathy, and to help us find a cure. My only worry is the Ostian."

"Yes...wait. He can be our specimen. We don't need to hunt down the Mad Men, we just need the Imperium to let us research him. This incident could mean a cure." John's face said it all. If the Imperium was willing to help, they could have the cure out in a matter of months.

"I don't know, that Xvere guy sounds very important." Quin retorts

[The United Tributational Territories]

"Yes...wait. He can be our specimen. We don't need to hunt down the Mad Men, we just need the Imperium to let us research him. This incident could mean a cure." John's face said it all. If the Imperium was willing to help, they could have the cure out in a matter of months.

"I don't know, that Xvere guy sounds very important." Quin retorts

"Maybe if he's dying, they'll let us use his body. It should still have the disease, fungi don't jump off a body once it's dead."

[Theyra]

CNED Resurgence
Hyperspace

Captain Yryln was thinking about his decision to head towards the current system. Based on the origin ship's information, it would make more sense to head towards this "Sol" system since that they actually had some information about it's inhabitants and some degree of what to expect. But, there was a some information indicting a small chance of a alien presence in another system in the region and Yryln decided to see if there was a chance of a alien civilization in this system before heading to the Sol system.

Sir we are going to enter the system in five minutes , said one of the navigators.

Yryln stood up from his chair. Okay, navigators based on the information in the database. I want us to not engaged the cloak when we enter but, have weapons and shields ready. Comm specialists, you to scan for any traces of alien communications and tell me as soon as you find one. And if we don't we find any alien comms, then we will start to scan the planets to see if there was a alien civilization in this system. And if there are no traces then we will make a report of our findings sent them back to command and continue to the "Sol" system.

Yes sir, the bridge crew relied.

Sir, we are going to enter the system the system in three, two, one.

The Resurgence exits hyperspace and appears near the outermost planet.

The Harndarian Space Command, Rolm
"Sir! We've got another alien signature coming into range!" One of the crew that were working on monitoring Rolm's space for strange movement said, he seemed to be tired and hate to drink a lot of coffee
The Conmander of the sector stood up,"Welp, you guys know the drill. Send the Defense Platforms to defend the inner planets, let's hope that they might be nice."
---
Harndarian Space
The Defense Platforms looked like a trapoid the flew vertically and were decked out on weapons. It seemed as is there were over 90 of them, probably even more, scattered around the inner planets, but they were more clustered near what seemed to be their territory, which is around where what seemed to be the last inner planet of the solar system.
A message was sent on all channels.

This is The Harndarian Space Command, you have enter UIPRH territory, state your name and business.

Sir, one of the comm specialists yelled in shock. A message has been broadcast and...... the language is in the database.

What, Yryln said too in shock, which language?

Uhh, English sir, its it appears to been spoken by the Hum..ans of the Sol system.

Yryln thinks for a second, well, if they are human then they can't have been the Black Death then and we kinda know they are like or at least that they are mammals. Vin, sent this message back to them," I am Captian Yryln Isoi of the Vryr'yks Coalition, we are explorers were going to explore this system and we mean no harm.

[Harndar]

The Harndarian Space Command, Rolm
"Sir! We've got another alien signature coming into range!" One of the crew that were working on monitoring Rolm's space for strange movement said, he seemed to be tired and hate to drink a lot of coffee
The Conmander of the sector stood up,"Welp, you guys know the drill. Send the Defense Platforms to defend the inner planets, let's hope that they might be nice."
---
Harndarian Space
The Defense Platforms looked like a trapoid the flew vertically and were decked out on weapons. It seemed as is there were over 90 of them, probably even more, scattered around the inner planets, but they were more clustered near what seemed to be their territory, which is around where what seemed to be the last inner planet of the solar system.
A message was sent on all channels.

This is The Harndarian Space Command, you have enter UIPRH territory, state your name and business.

Sir, one of the comm specialists yelled in shock. A message has been broadcast and...... the language is in the database.

What, Yryln said too in shock, which language?

Uhh, English sir, its it appears to been spoken by the Hum..ans of the Sol system.

Yryln thinks for a second, well, if they are human then they can't have been the Black Death then and we kinda know they are like or at least that they are mammals. Vin, sent this message back to them," I am Captian Yryln Isoi of the Vryr'yks Coalition, we are explorers were going to explore this system and we mean no harm.

They're response was sort of delayed, but they did respond.

Then Welcome to Harndarian Space, you are free to visit if you would like.

[Theyra]

Sir, one of the comm specialists yelled in shock. A message has been broadcast and...... the language is in the database.

What, Yryln said too in shock, which language?

Uhh, English sir, its it appears to been spoken by the Hum..ans of the Sol system.

Yryln thinks for a second, well, if they are human then they can't have been the Black Death then and we kinda know they are like or at least that they are mammals. Vin, sent this message back to them," I am Captian Yryln Isoi of the Vryr'yks Coalition, we are explorers were going to explore this system and we mean no harm.

They're response was sort of delayed, but they did respond.

Then Welcome to Harndarian Space, you are free to visit if you would like.

Ugh, Sir they sent a message and we are apparently free to visit them? Vin now a bit confused.

Well, they are friendly at the moment. Vin sent the message to the First contact team and tell them to contact me after they made a decision.

The message was sent and a few minutes later Yryln was contact from the team.

Captian Yryln, we did not expect a response like this but, if these aliens are friendly then we could have a meeting with them and possibly learn if they are the humans from the Sol system or at least see if they know anything about them.

Yryln thinks about this, Master Rin, prepare your team for a meeting and any information on humans on the chance they are humans, I going to see if I can arrange meeting with these Hanrndarians and he closes the link.

Vin sent another message, "If it is possible I would like a meeting with your government or meet a representative of your people".

[Harndar]

They're response was sort of delayed, but they did respond.

Then Welcome to Harndarian Space, you are free to visit if you would like.

Ugh, Sir they sent a message and we are apparently free to visit them? Vin now a bit confused.

Well, they are friendly at the moment. Vin sent the message to the First contact team and tell them to contact me after they made a decision.

The message was sent and a few minutes later Yryln was contact from the team.

Captian Yryln, we did not expect a response like this but, if these aliens are friendly then we could have a meeting with them and possibly learn if they are the humans from the Sol system or at least see if they know anything about them.

Yryln thinks about this, Master Rin, prepare your team for a meeting and any information on humans on the chance they can humans, I going to see if I can arrange meeting with these Hanrndarians and he closes the link.

Vin sent another message, "If it is possible I would like a meeting with your government or meet a representative of your people".

We will send a delegate from The Council, Our Head Senator as currently working on certain issues. Where would you like to meet him?"

[Theyra]

Ugh, Sir they sent a message and we are apparently free to visit them? Vin now a bit confused.

Well, they are friendly at the moment. Vin sent the message to the First contact team and tell them to contact me after they made a decision.

The message was sent and a few minutes later Yryln was contact from the team.

Captian Yryln, we did not expect a response like this but, if these aliens are friendly then we could have a meeting with them and possibly learn if they are the humans from the Sol system or at least see if they know anything about them.

Yryln thinks about this, Master Rin, prepare your team for a meeting and any information on humans on the chance they can humans, I going to see if I can arrange meeting with these Hanrndarians and he closes the link.

Vin sent another message, "If it is possible I would like a meeting with your government or meet a representative of your people".

We will send a delegate from The Council, Our Head Senator as currently working on certain issues. Where would you like to meet him?"

"If possible on your homeworld if it is allowed, or any planet would be okay" and the message was sent.

A council, Yryln said in a surprised tone. Well, at least it seem that their government is similar to ours.

[Harndar]

We will send a delegate from The Council, Our Head Senator as currently working on certain issues. Where would you like to meet him?"

"If possible on your homeworld if it is allowed, or any planet would be okay" and the message was sent.

A council, Yryln said in a surprised tone. Well, at least it seem that their government is similar to ours.

We shall ask if you can be allowed deeper in Harndarian space and to Primsalis. Please wait.

"Sir, what do you say?" The man that was talking with the aliens asked his commander.
"I don't know, I guess they can pass to Primsalis, but they must be under strict watched."
"Got it." The Harndaian turns back to the comms

You are allowed to pass to Primsalis. Keep in mind that you are under strict watch.

The Defense Platforms started to move to make way for the approaching ship.

[Harndar]

"I don't know, that Xvere guy sounds very important." Quin retorts

"Maybe if he's dying, they'll let us use his body. It should still have the disease, fungi don't jump off a body once it's dead."

"It's a stupid idea, but it might work. The question is, do you know where they are at?" The Head Senator asked.

[Theyra]

"If possible on your homeworld if it is allowed, or any planet would be okay" and the message was sent.

A council, Yryln said in a surprised tone. Well, at least it seem that their government is similar to ours.

We shall ask if you can be allowed deeper in Harndarian space and to Primsalis. Please wait.

"Sir, what do you say?" The man that was talking with the aliens asked his commander.
"I don't know, I guess they can pass to Primsalis, but they must be under strict watched."
"Got it." The Harndaian turns back to the comms

You are allowed to pass to Primsalis. Keep in mind that you are under strict watch.

The Defense Platforms started to move to make way for the approaching ship.

Sir, we have permission to their homeworld, Primsalis it seems but, under strict watch.

Okay then, navigators make a course for Primsalis and tell Master Rin, that the meeting will happen very soon and her team should be ready when we land. Plus, as per protocol, block any attempts of them to scan the ship.

The Resurgence moves to Primsalis and was careful not alarm the Harndarians.

[The Moscow Metro Red Line]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3kFYcoSzPw

Displeoa System - Heading Towards Lepota - Between Vryi and Lepota - 57 Hours After Awakening

"Enemy within view range." Reported the sensor operator on the gilded bridge of the I.O.S. Righteous Fury, Prince Xaiver's personal vessel. Eighteen bloated and diseased ships appeared on the screen. These ships were bigger than the Ostian vessels. Despite the naming conventions, Ostian starships are actually smaller than most of their counterparts. The crew of a Pious Class destroyer numbers only 375 overall. The crew sizes vary from 275 (Virtue Class Frigates) to 950 (Emperor Class Battleship). However what they lack in size they make up for firepower and speed. Ostian Naval strategy is based primarily on close ranged maneuvers and strategic placement of Pious class destroyers. Due to the Ostian preference for boarding actions, their ships, with the exception of the destroyers, were made with boarding action in mind.

The bioships came into full view of the Battlegroup, as the Highbred began its assault on the vanguard. The fleet under Captain Drea's command were under attack as they tried to rejoin the battlegroup. Prince Xaiver looked as Captain Drea's fleet began to retaliate, firing shots at the bioships along with missiles. However the bioships seemed to 'heal' despite the assault. He began to feel nervous, never before had he encountered an enemy such as this one. For the first time in his life, Prince Xaiver contemplated the idea of-

"Do you see now, young ones? Do you see what you have unleashed? Do you comprehend it? Understand it? We are your worst nightmares come alive. We will consume you all. You will run. You will hide. Eventually. But We will be there... We will find you. And We will consume you. There is nothing you can do, fools...",

Yes, perhaps now is to with- "Your highness," responded the first officer. "We're getting hails from many of the ships."

The Prince shock his head, trying to rid himself of such thoughts. "Put it through."

"This is Captain Beyer of the I.O.S. Virtuous Avenger, I volunteer my ship to lead the charge!" Prince Xaiver was surprised by this. These people are willing to-

"This is Captain Dreher of the I.O.S. Blessed Sword, let me lead the charge, your highness."

"This is Captain Fuhrman of the I.O.S. Descending Angel, my crew and I shall avenge the deaths caused by these filth!" Many calls similar to those came to the Righteous Fury. Ostian zeal, one of the mysteries of the universe.

"All starships!" Prince Xaiver ordered. "Proceed with the battleplan! Today shall be another glorious battle for Ostia!"

"Yes, your highness!" Echoed the Captains and officers in the Ostian Battlegroup. As the bioships and Drea's fleet exchanged fire, the frigates which made the front of the Battlegroup's formation surged forward. Three virtue class frigates began concentrating fire on one of the bioships in the lead. They fired all their boarding pods into the ship simultaneously. The boarding pods rammed into the bioship.

Meanwhile swarms of Battlesuit teams descended on the bioships attacking Drea's fleet. They tried to coordinate their fire with the other starships firing into the holes caused by them. Even though thermite rounds are not as effective in space as planetside, they still useful for sealing areas. The concentrated fire of the Battlesuit teams caused slowed the healing process of the bioships as their shots scorched the sides of the wounds, making it harder for them to regenerate.

"312th Battlesuit platoon, keep a close eye on those bioships, you may be able to dodge the acid but it may try something like those tentacle things." Captain Drea reported to the Battlesuits assisting his fleet.

"Copy, relaying information to all pilots." Responded the Platoon commander. The cruisers, battlecruisers and battleship began medium-distance bombardment on the bioships.

Only one battlecruiser and 1 destroyer were at Vryi, these ships were under the Admiral's control. These two starships as well as the alien flotilla orbited aimlessly, monitoring the battle.
-------------------------------------
Epsilon System

From the wreckage and debris of the Sovik fleet, only twenty five survivors were found. Out of the twenty five, three were NCOs. The rest of the command staff and senior officers are presumed dead. The group-appointed leader of the survivors contacted the xenos. "This is Sergeant Boris Polzin, you have our thanks. Unfortunately I think all the senior officers are dead. I don't know how you did it, but you sent those Inquisition suka running."

-------------------------------------
Sol System - Orbit Around Mars

The Ostian Battlegroup made orbit around one of the Sol planets called 'Mars'. At the center of the formation was Crown Prince Joseph Marx's vessel, the I.O.S. Relentless Zeal, an Emperor Class battleship. The Emperor Class battleship is the only true capital ship in the Ostian navy. These ships were designed more flexibly, allowing its commanders to retrofit it as much as they please. The standard Emperor Class battleship was developed for more general uses, it is not as fast as standard Ostian starships but has more armor and firepower. A transmission came from the Ostian Battlegroup from the I.O.S. Relentless Zeal. "This is Crown Prince Joseph Marx of Ostian Battlegroup Sol, I would like to invite the commanders over to my vessel for a banquet. I feel that now is a good time to understand each other so that we can better coordinate our forces in the coming battle."

[Harndar]

We shall ask if you can be allowed deeper in Harndarian space and to Primsalis. Please wait.

"Sir, what do you say?" The man that was talking with the aliens asked his commander.
"I don't know, I guess they can pass to Primsalis, but they must be under strict watched."
"Got it." The Harndaian turns back to the comms

You are allowed to pass to Primsalis. Keep in mind that you are under strict watch.

The Defense Platforms started to move to make way for the approaching ship.

Sir, we have permission to their homeworld, Primsalis it seems but, under strict watch.

Okay then, navigators make a course for Primsalis and tell Master Rin, that the meeting will happen very soon and his team should be ready when we land. Plus, as per protocol, block any attempts of them to scan the ship.

The Resurgence moves to Primsalis and was careful not alarm the Harndarians.

They move past 3 planets before reaching the Homeworld. Primsalis seemed to be well guarded by the Defense Platforms, but still made room so the ship can dock in orbit. It also looked like earth, with some seasons and biomes, but the continents were different from earth's.

[Theyra]

Sir, we have permission to their homeworld, Primsalis it seems but, under strict watch.

Okay then, navigators make a course for Primsalis and tell Master Rin, that the meeting will happen very soon and his team should be ready when we land. Plus, as per protocol, block any attempts of them to scan the ship.

The Resurgence moves to Primsalis and was careful not alarm the Harndarians.

They move past 3 planets before reaching the Homeworld. Primsalis seemed to be well guarded by the Defense Platforms, but still made room so the ship can dock in orbit. It also looked like earth, with some seasons and biomes, but the continents were different from earth's.

The Resurgence instead of docking, maintains position near the space station.

Captain Yryln, Master Rin along with some of her team and a squad of Shock Marines prepares leave to the ship by dropship. Captain we are set for your leave we will wait for your return and.... are prepare for the worse, he told the Captain from his wristguard.

Understood XO, and Yryln closes the link. Well, navigator take us down to the meeting location.

The dropship departs the ship and goes down to the planet and lands at the at landing coordinates.

[Harndar]

They move past 3 planets before reaching the Homeworld. Primsalis seemed to be well guarded by the Defense Platforms, but still made room so the ship can dock in orbit. It also looked like earth, with some seasons and biomes, but the continents were different from earth's.

Captain Yryln, Master Rin along with some of her team and a squad of Shock Marines prepares to leave the airlock and enter the station. Captain we are set for your leave we will wait for your return and.... are prepare for the worse, he told the Captain from his wristguard.

Understood XO, and the Yryln closes the link. Well, Master Rin here we go.

The airlock opens and they and enter the space station with the shock marines in a guarding stance around them.

The city looked modernized and large. sky scrapers could be seem from a distance of the landing zone. There were singals made by the Harndarians to tell them where to land. The Land Zone was like a Helicopter Landing Pad, but much Larger and had a square shape. When they landed a squad of Harndarians waited for them.
"Welcome To Primsalis," One said,"We'll lead you to the Council Auditorium, just rush it over there before the media figures out you are aliens."

[The Greater Gambia]

Unidentified System,
First Contact with the Vryr'yks Coalition
"A message has already been sent. We will be contacting you within 4 to 10 Tagali standard days. Now, if you excuse us. We need to finish our scans of the system and we'll be on our way. It has been a pleasure working with you."

Todval System,
First Contact with the Generation

The Admiral's bridge crew looked at each other in confusion as they listened to the transmission. With most of the military personnel in the Todval System being native Tagali's, most of them were skeptical for their to be a sentient species drastically smaller than them. The Admiral snapped out of his surprise and composed himself. Ready to reply to the new species.

"W-Well, we will find a way. Shuttles have been dispatched and will be aboard shortly. Take heed that any hostile action against our forces will be met in kind."

Valkyrie System,
Kalchata
Battle of Kalchata

Okalar's warriors prepared for the end inside the inner sanctum of the temple. It was a large circular room with a large glass walkway leading to a console and a large, holographic map of the galaxy in the middle. The walk way spanned over a large, cavernous pit which ended only at the deepest depths of the planets crust. Okalar stood at the console, desperately searching through the the alien records for something that could turn the tide, but to no avail. In anger, Okalar threw his fists down onto the console, roaring in frustration.

"Damn this Xeno technology!" Okalar's lieutenant walked up to him.

"High Warlord, the false king and his puppets are almost here. Me and the rest of the Warriors will stand by you and fight to the last." Okalar sighed and pulled out his warhammer.

" May each of you take as many with you as possible into the great sleep. Leave Salog to me, his death is the only thing that will make my slumber peaceful." Those remaining in Okalar's ranks with melee weapons stood behind him, ready to follow him into death. Those few that had guns took cover behind crates to support their comrades. Few moments later, the door to the Sanctum blew open with explosives. The rounds from both Tagali and Maug-Lai weaponry came spewing out from the smoke, followed by charging loyalist soldiers, with Salog in the front. Okalar roared and began to charge at the incoming enemy, his men in tow. Within the span of a few seconds, the tow blobs of soldiers became one. Some of those closer to the edge were pushed off the side of the walk way, falling to their deaths below.

In the center of it, Salog and Okalar clashed sword and hammer. Salog pulled back and made a slicing motion with his sword, making contact with the long handle of Okalar's hammer. Okalar's hammer broke in half from the hit. He threw the two pieces to the side and pounced onto Salog, pushing him to the ground and knocking his sword out of his hands. Okalar began to claw and bite at Salog's flesh, in which Salog responded in kind. The fight looked like two bears fighting over a piece of meat. Salog was able to sink his teeth into Okalar's neck and turn the tables.. Okalar could barely let out a yelp. Blood spewing everywhere, Salog crushed Okalar's throat with his teeth. Salog stood up and grabbed his sword from off the ground. Okalar laid their, bleeding and suffocating to death. Salog stood over the dying warlord for a few short moments before bringing his sword crashing down onto what remained of his throat.

Around him, the last of Okalar's warriors were being defeated and butchered. Salog walked over to the raised area of the console, Okalar's severed head in his hand. He raised his fists in celebration, letting out a loud howl that echoed across the room. His soldiers followed his lead and howled too. The "Swords of Okalar" were no more, and there was now one less threat to Salog and the Tagali Federation. The Special Operatives came out of their cover, making sure not to step into the many pools of blood and innards that littered the room. They walked towards the large console and map in the center of the room.

"Well, looks like Okalar wasn't lying about having an alien artifact under his control. Doesn't look like the super weapon he was clammoring about. Said one of the operatives.

"We'll let the researchers decide that. Call the Rear-Admiral and tell her it's clear to bring down the Research team." The Operative nodded in agreement and walked over to the edge, getting to a quite area to call them in. Operative Keeva, the Taani Operative gazed in amazement at the large map of the galaxy.

"Wow, the species that created this place must have been advanced in their day. To have a map this detailed, it eclipses anything we have." Temir didn't share her amazement.

"All of that technological know how didn't guarantee their survival now, didn't it?" Keeva ignored his pessimism. Instead, she grew curious to a glowing red dot on the map. It's pulsing drawing her attention like a moth to a flame.

"What do you think that one is different from the other ones? It's a sole red dot in a sea of blue." Temir rolled his eyes. He had forgotten about the Taani's natural curiosity, something the Tagali's natural habitat had beaten out of them early on in their species history.

"Who knows, maybe it's a site similar to this? An old enemy's last stronghold, maybe even their own? Let's just have the researchers tell us in a day or two." Before Keeva could respond, Salog walked up to Temir.

"My men will dispose of the bodies and leave the area. You will have no interference from us. There are bound to be cowards and naive remnants that wish to carry on the fight."

"Alright, we will remain here and wait for our people to make it down here." As Salog was about to turn, Temir stopped him and raised out his hand to shake. " Oh yes, and congratulations on your victory here. May you continue to be fortunate." Salog merely smiled and shook his hand.

"Like wise, hopefully your government shares what info you gain from this facility with all of the members of the Federation, so we may all benefit from it." Salog aided his soldiers with disposing the bodies of the dead "Swords of Okalar" warriors and carrying their own. The enemy fallen were simply tossed down into the pit, and just as fast forgotten.

Unknown to those above. Okalar's fit of anger in his final moments had pressed a button on the console. This action released an old, ancient threat in the bottom of the pit. One that could extinguish all life in the galaxy.

[Spindle]

Eris' breaths were coming short and shakily as she clung onto Khronos in stunned disbelief, unable to look away from the crumpled figure of her little sister on the floor. In her mind, she could still see Lyson standing there, holding Euphemia by the hair and preparing to attack her like some kind of animal. Hot anger spurted inside her and she glared at Lyson's back as if she could burn a hole in it if she just thought about it hard enough. She wanted to see that bastard suffer, wanted to pull him apart with her own hands, but instead he would die on the planet below them when his envirosuit failed him. It was far too good a death for him.

"No."

The single word cut through the shocked silence that had descended over the Ballroom like a flaming sword, drawing all eyes to its source-a crumpled heap of a woman, pulling herself to her feet. As her head came up, Eris was shocked by Euphemia's expression. There was no anger there, no hate or desire for retaliation. All there was was a deep, infinite well of pity for the Taari who had attacked her.

"Imperator," Euphemia continued, "If I am to be Consul then I must be accepted by your people, and acceptance cannot, must not, come from this." She gestured towards Lyson and his guards, "I must therefore request that this Taari be placed under my personal custody for a period of two months, before being released."

"Euphemia..." Eris sighed, "What do think you're doing? He attacked you!"

"And is that an excuse to kill him? When a man is sick, would you kill him out of hand or cure him?" Euphemia retorted, not looking away from Khronos, "Will you release him into my custody?"





Scorpius stood in the CIC of the Vipus, staring at the cryo pod with a fair degree of trepidation.

"Are you sure it's safe?" He asked Ophius.

"I've been assured it is." She replied.

"That means you don't actually know." He sighed, closing his eyes, "I don't have any choice, do I?"

"Of course not." Ophius smiled, "You are in the military,after all."

"Very well." Scorpius said as he began to swiftly climb the ladder set into the side of the pod, reaching the top and swiveling over the rim into the thick, translucent sludge. The indentation his body left remained for several seconds after he fully submerged and the interlink process began. Ophius never enjoyed watching the process, but this time she did, watching the wires insert themselves into various parts of Scorpius' body to map out both his thoughts and his nervous energy.

"Initiating cryo." A robotic voice spoke.

A small number of the wires abruptly turned bright blue as the oxygenated coolant was pumped into Scorpius, his movements slowing before finally ceasing completely. Ophius checked his readouts and sighed in relief as the all showed green, before turning and leaving. She still had reams of paperwork from when she had requisitioned the cryo pods from Fifth Fleet.

On the shuttle back, a message flashed up on the passenger holo and Ophius felt her eyebrow raise as she read it. Dinner? With the Ostians? Well, she could forget the paperwork for a bit, then. After all, she had an outfit to pick out!

[The Dark Brotherhood of Deros]

Todval
"Understood. we will prepare for your arrival." Lethox said, closing the transmission. the whole bridge seemed worried. this could go horribly wrong and everyone knew it.

[Spindle]

Scorpius felt his mind come back into existence, interlinked with the ship. He could feel everything as if they were mere extensions of his own body, from the sensors to the life support to the point defences and countermeasures. But those were not what he needed to use at the moment. He opened LASER channels with the eight other Ophians, bringing them into the four light-second cross that was to be their formation. With any luck, multiple angles would allow them to cross-reference data and find what the Florans and Colma might want to hide.

The timers synchronised across the breadth of the formation and Scorpius felt a flutter of anticipation in his stomach, which was ridiculous, he knew. Barring any massively unforeseen circumstances they would be in and out without anyone so much as suspecting that there was someone else in the system, and the plan seemed to be proof against even Murphy’s Law...which meant that inevitably, Murphy would be there waiting to ambush them.

The timers hit zero and Scorpius felt the tide of nausea wash over him as the squadron silently slipped into b-space, disappearing from the material universe without a trace. Another timer flickered on in Scorpius’ mind, counting down the hour and a half that he would have to wait to reach his destination. He began absentmindedly scanning along the interior of the Vipus for any flaws or problems. After all, he had ninety minutes and he may as well spend them on something productive.

[The V O I D]

Eris' breaths were coming short and shakily as she clung onto Khronos in stunned disbelief, unable to look away from the crumpled figure of her little sister on the floor. In her mind, she could still see Lyson standing there, holding Euphemia by the hair and preparing to attack her like some kind of animal. Hot anger spurted inside her and she glared at Lyson's back as if she could burn a hole in it if she just thought about it hard enough. She wanted to see that bastard suffer, wanted to pull him apart with her own hands, but instead he would die on the planet below them when his envirosuit failed him. It was far too good a death for him.

"No."

The single word cut through the shocked silence that had descended over the Ballroom like a flaming sword, drawing all eyes to its source-a crumpled heap of a woman, pulling herself to her feet. As her head came up, Eris was shocked by Euphemia's expression. There was no anger there, no hate or desire for retaliation. All there was was a deep, infinite well of pity for the Taari who had attacked her.

"Imperator," Euphemia continued, "If I am to be Consul then I must be accepted by your people, and acceptance cannot, must not, come from this." She gestured towards Lyson and his guards, "I must therefore request that this Taari be placed under my personal custody for a period of two months, before being released."

"Euphemia..." Eris sighed, "What do think you're doing? He attacked you!"

"And is that an excuse to kill him? When a man is sick, would you kill him out of hand or cure him?" Euphemia retorted, not looking away from Khronos, "Will you release him into my custody?"

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

Khronos sighed audibly, rubbing his nose. He mulled over Euphemia's words as he thought up a response to them. Deciding, he looked down at Euphemia, his eyes seemingly filled with a form of resignation...

"I shall let you and your family decide his fate. If your parents agree, then he will be under your custody. However, this is your choice... not mine. I can't be accountable for anything that xenophobe does.", he stated firmly. He hated to be so firm to his future wife's sister, but he decided that was the best way to respond. Nonetheless, he turned to his wife and hugged her again, trying to comfort her and calm her down.

Valkyrie System,
Kalchata
Battle of Kalchata

Okalar's warriors prepared for the end inside the inner sanctum of the temple. It was a large circular room with a large glass walkway leading to a console and a large, holographic map of the galaxy in the middle. The walk way spanned over a large, cavernous pit which ended only at the deepest depths of the planets crust. Okalar stood at the console, desperately searching through the the alien records for something that could turn the tide, but to no avail. In anger, Okalar threw his fists down onto the console, roaring in frustration.

"Damn this Xeno technology!" Okalar's lieutenant walked up to him.

"High Warlord, the false king and his puppets are almost here. Me and the rest of the Warriors will stand by you and fight to the last." Okalar sighed and pulled out his warhammer.

" May each of you take as many with you as possible into the great sleep. Leave Salog to me, his death is the only thing that will make my slumber peaceful." Those remaining in Okalar's ranks with melee weapons stood behind him, ready to follow him into death. Those few that had guns took cover behind crates to support their comrades. Few moments later, the door to the Sanctum blew open with explosives. The rounds from both Tagali and Maug-Lai weaponry came spewing out from the smoke, followed by charging loyalist soldiers, with Salog in the front. Okalar roared and began to charge at the incoming enemy, his men in tow. Within the span of a few seconds, the tow blobs of soldiers became one. Some of those closer to the edge were pushed off the side of the walk way, falling to their deaths below.

In the center of it, Salog and Okalar clashed sword and hammer. Salog pulled back and made a slicing motion with his sword, making contact with the long handle of Okalar's hammer. Okalar's hammer broke in half from the hit. He threw the two pieces to the side and pounced onto Salog, pushing him to the ground and knocking his sword out of his hands. Okalar began to claw and bite at Salog's flesh, in which Salog responded in kind. The fight looked like two bears fighting over a piece of meat. Salog was able to sink his teeth into Okalar's neck and turn the tables.. Okalar could barely let out a yelp. Blood spewing everywhere, Salog crushed Okalar's throat with his teeth. Salog stood up and grabbed his sword from off the ground. Okalar laid their, bleeding and suffocating to death. Salog stood over the dying warlord for a few short moments before bringing his sword crashing down onto what remained of his throat.

Around him, the last of Okalar's warriors were being defeated and butchered. Salog walked over to the raised area of the console, Okalar's severed head in his hand. He raised his fists in celebration, letting out a loud howl that echoed across the room. His soldiers followed his lead and howled too. The "Swords of Okalar" were no more, and there was now one less threat to Salog and the Tagali Federation. The Special Operatives came out of their cover, making sure not to step into the many pools of blood and innards that littered the room. They walked towards the large console and map in the center of the room.

"Well, looks like Okalar wasn't lying about having an alien artifact under his control. Doesn't look like the super weapon he was clammoring about. Said one of the operatives.

"We'll let the researchers decide that. Call the Rear-Admiral and tell her it's clear to bring down the Research team." The Operative nodded in agreement and walked over to the edge, getting to a quite area to call them in. Operative Keeva, the Taani Operative gazed in amazement at the large map of the galaxy.

"Wow, the species that created this place must have been advanced in their day. To have a map this detailed, it eclipses anything we have." Temir didn't share her amazement.

"All of that technological know how didn't guarantee their survival now, didn't it?" Keeva ignored his pessimism. Instead, she grew curious to a glowing red dot on the map. It's pulsing drawing her attention like a moth to a flame.

"What do you think that one is different from the other ones? It's a sole red dot in a sea of blue." Temir rolled his eyes. He had forgotten about the Taani's natural curiosity, something the Tagali's natural habitat had beaten out of them early on in their species history.

"Who knows, maybe it's a site similar to this? An old enemy's last stronghold, maybe even their own? Let's just have the researchers tell us in a day or two." Before Keeva could respond, Salog walked up to Temir.

"My men will dispose of the bodies and leave the area. You will have no interference from us. There are bound to be cowards and naive remnants that wish to carry on the fight."

"Alright, we will remain here and wait for our people to make it down here." As Salog was about to turn, Temir stopped him and raised out his hand to shake. " Oh yes, and congratulations on your victory here. May you continue to be fortunate." Salog merely smiled and shook his hand.

"Like wise, hopefully your government shares what info you gain from this facility with all of the members of the Federation, so we may all benefit from it." Salog aided his soldiers with disposing the bodies of the dead "Swords of Okalar" warriors and carrying their own. The enemy fallen were simply tossed down into the pit, and just as fast forgotten.

Unknown to those above. Okalar's fit of anger in his final moments had pressed a button on the console. This action released an old, ancient threat in the bottom of the pit. One that could extinguish all life in the galaxy.

Valkyrie System
Kalchata
Battle of Kalchata

The Allmind suddenly felt something. It's fourth dormancy pod on Kalchata awoke. It felt the new bodies and biomass and new formations. This was good... if It somehow failed here, It would still have a point of infection into the galaxy. The Allmind began ordering It's Infestors and Spores. They made quick work of the corpses thrown into the pit, and throughout the underground tunnels and pits on Kalchata, It began moving again... fully awakening on a new world. Suddenly and without warning, Infestors and Spores burst from the ground or from pits, attacking everything in sight; trying to infect it, eat it or throw them into the pits.

It let out a satisfied growl as It did this, the growl rumbling through It's bodies disturbingly. The Allmind decided that this method of infestation would be best... the Ostians seemed to be fixed on ensuring It did not escape the planets It was on in their system, but It was sure It could win. And even if It did not, then the consumption and awakening was far from over. It continued sending more Infestors and Spores out into the planet, trying to infect as many as possible... trying to build another Highbreed army, as well as another 'Allmind Body'... incase It needed said form. It grinned on It's body on Xarintine, underground...

[Theyra]

Unidentified System,
First Contact with the Vryr'yks Coalition
"A message has already been sent. We will be contacting you within 4 to 10 Tagali standard days. Now, if you excuse us. We need to finish our scans of the system and we'll be on our way. It has been a pleasure working with you."

Sent this message "then we will hold position in this system atill then"

[Theyra]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3kFYcoSzPw

Displeoa System - Heading Towards Lepota - Between Vryi and Lepota - 57 Hours After Awakening

"Enemy within view range." Reported the sensor operator on the gilded bridge of the I.O.S. Righteous Fury, Prince Xaiver's personal vessel. Eighteen bloated and diseased ships appeared on the screen. These ships were bigger than the Ostian vessels. Despite the naming conventions, Ostian starships are actually smaller than most of their counterparts. The crew of a Pious Class destroyer numbers only 375 overall. The crew sizes vary from 275 (Virtue Class Frigates) to 950 (Emperor Class Battleship). However what they lack in size they make up for firepower and speed. Ostian Naval strategy is based primarily on close ranged maneuvers and strategic placement of Pious class destroyers. Due to the Ostian preference for boarding actions, their ships, with the exception of the destroyers, were made with boarding action in mind.

The bioships came into full view of the Battlegroup, as the Highbred began its assault on the vanguard. The fleet under Captain Drea's command were under attack as they tried to rejoin the battlegroup. Prince Xaiver looked as Captain Drea's fleet began to retaliate, firing shots at the bioships along with missiles. However the bioships seemed to 'heal' despite the assault. He began to feel nervous, never before had he encountered an enemy such as this one. For the first time in his life, Prince Xaiver contemplated the idea of-

"Do you see now, young ones? Do you see what you have unleashed? Do you comprehend it? Understand it? We are your worst nightmares come alive. We will consume you all. You will run. You will hide. Eventually. But We will be there... We will find you. And We will consume you. There is nothing you can do, fools...",

Yes, perhaps now is to with- "Your highness," responded the first officer. "We're getting hails from many of the ships."

The Prince shock his head, trying to rid himself of such thoughts. "Put it through."

"This is Captain Beyer of the I.O.S. Virtuous Avenger, I volunteer my ship to lead the charge!" Prince Xaiver was surprised by this. These people are willing to-

"This is Captain Dreher of the I.O.S. Blessed Sword, let me lead the charge, your highness."

"This is Captain Fuhrman of the I.O.S. Descending Angel, my crew and I shall avenge the deaths caused by these filth!" Many calls similar to those came to the Righteous Fury. Ostian zeal, one of the mysteries of the universe.

"All starships!" Prince Xaiver ordered. "Proceed with the battleplan! Today shall be another glorious battle for Ostia!"

"Yes, your highness!" Echoed the Captains and officers in the Ostian Battlegroup. As the bioships and Drea's fleet exchanged fire, the frigates which made the front of the Battlegroup's formation surged forward. Three virtue class frigates began concentrating fire on one of the bioships in the lead. They fired all their boarding pods into the ship simultaneously. The boarding pods rammed into the bioship.

Meanwhile swarms of Battlesuit teams descended on the bioships attacking Drea's fleet. They tried to coordinate their fire with the other starships firing into the holes caused by them. Even though thermite rounds are not as effective in space as planetside, they still useful for sealing areas. The concentrated fire of the Battlesuit teams caused slowed the healing process of the bioships as their shots scorched the sides of the wounds, making it harder for them to regenerate.

"312th Battlesuit platoon, keep a close eye on those bioships, you may be able to dodge the acid but it may try something like those tentacle things." Captain Drea reported to the Battlesuits assisting his fleet.

"Copy, relaying information to all pilots." Responded the Platoon commander. The cruisers, battlecruisers and battleship began medium-distance bombardment on the bioships.

Only one battlecruiser and 1 destroyer were at Vryi, these ships were under the Admiral's control. These two starships as well as the alien flotilla orbited aimlessly, monitoring the battle."

57 Hours After Awaking
Sir, the Ostians are engaging the Hivebreed fleet, said one of the comm specialists

I want the link to the fleet opened now I want a secure connection to command when I'm done ordered Dyr.

Yes sir link to the fleet is up.

This is Admiral Ninia of the Response Fleet what is it Captain Dyr?

Admiral, I have bad news the Hivebreed have deployed their own ships at the Ostian's fleet.

What!, she said in horror. They can make ships? How many and how are the Ostian's handling them?

Fourteen total ships and they are larger then the Ostian's ships and it's too early to tell right now. Admiral we have not engaged the Hivebreed fleet yet, and we contact you if the Ostian's are forced to retreat. We will contact command about this development.

Un... Understood Captain we will continue on course and leave the link open.And tell us when it looks like the Ostians are going to retreat, Captain.

Yes Admiral, we will keep you posted and Dyr disconnects the call. Then a holo-projection of commander Zuia appears next to Dyr.

Dyr what has happened?

Commander, I have just informed the fleet, the Hivebreed have..... launched their own ships against he Ostians. The Ostians are attacking the Hivemind fleet but, we don't know if they can defeat the Hivebreed fleet. I....., What do we do now Commander?

Zuia recollects herself after hearing this turn of events and responds to Dyr. Dyr, you are to offer any aid you can to the Ostians and you can not engaged the Hivebreed ships. You are our only ship that can monitored the situation and we can't not risk losing you. I will talk to the Council and see if they are willing to sent more ships to help the Ostians and Dyr stay safe. The Zuia closes the link and the holo-projection fades.

Dyr takes a heavy sigh and turns to the comm specialists, I want to sent a message to Admiral Feolf Specht. "Admiral, I have contacted my people and have informed them of the current situation. The fleet is still on it's way and I have ordered to aid you in any way that I can.But, as long as I don't engaged the Hivebreed ship directly. Admiral, My ship is the only can that can informed my government of what is happening and they will not risk losing me. I can give you my troops that have been modified to fight the Hivebreed which most are A.I. controlled. And if they is any other way I can help than please tell me and i will do it".

[Spindle]

As Khronos held her tighter, Eris released the shudders of fear that she had stored up in her core, shaking uncontrollably as she held onto him for dear life.

"He just...he was going to...how could..." She babbled, trailing off as she ran out of steam and being replaced instead by a swell of anger. Anger that he had hurt Eris' sister. Anger that he had ruined the night before their wedding. Anger that he seemed intent on ruining every part of Eris' life he could get his filthy hands on. Out of the corner of her eyes, she noted Euphemia leading Lyson and the two guards out of the Ballroom, but she tore her focus away from it and settled it back on Khronos. It was their night, no-one else's, and she wasn't going to let Lyson take it away from her. She wasn't going to let the bastard take it away from them.

"Let's get a drink." She said firmly, "Something alcoholic, that only gets served in glasses the size of my thumbnail."




Leaving the Ballroom, Eris walked awhile, heading vaguely towards her quarters, before ducking into an unoccupied drawing room and indicated to the guards to sit Lyson down at an ornate, wooden table, taking a seat opposite him. She scooted the chair back slightly, in case he had another episode, and sighed. She hated that she had to make precautions for the Taari's irrationality, but that was what she would have to work on, if there was to be any hope of salvaging a soul from this body. She crossed on leg over the other and spent several seconds just taking him in: his semi-slumped posture, his furious expression, the way his hands were still slightly curled. She took it in and spoke.

"I would like you to know, before we start, that the Imperator's offer still stands. At any time, just say the word and the guards will put you on that pod and send you down to that planet below us." She began softly, "I personally believe we can still salvage something from you, but it is your choice. Now, I have a party to attend, but before I go to that and have these two find secure accommodations for you, Admiral, I have a question. Why do you believe that we are your enemies?"

[The V O I D]

As Khronos held her tighter, Eris released the shudders of fear that she had stored up in her core, shaking uncontrollably as she held onto him for dear life.

"He just...he was going to...how could..." She babbled, trailing off as she ran out of steam and being replaced instead by a swell of anger. Anger that he had hurt Eris' sister. Anger that he had ruined the night before their wedding. Anger that he seemed intent on ruining every part of Eris' life he could get his filthy hands on. Out of the corner of her eyes, she noted Euphemia leading Lyson and the two guards out of the Ballroom, but she tore her focus away from it and settled it back on Khronos. It was their night, no-one else's, and she wasn't going to let Lyson take it away from her. She wasn't going to let the bastard take it away from them.

"Let's get a drink." She said firmly, "Something alcoholic, that only gets served in glasses the size of my thumbnail."




Leaving the Ballroom, Eris walked awhile, heading vaguely towards her quarters, before ducking into an unoccupied drawing room and indicated to the guards to sit Lyson down at an ornate, wooden table, taking a seat opposite him. She scooted the chair back slightly, in case he had another episode, and sighed. She hated that she had to make precautions for the Taari's irrationality, but that was what she would have to work on, if there was to be any hope of salvaging a soul from this body. She crossed on leg over the other and spent several seconds just taking him in: his semi-slumped posture, his furious expression, the way his hands were still slightly curled. She took it in and spoke.

"I would like you to know, before we start, that the Imperator's offer still stands. At any time, just say the word and the guards will put you on that pod and send you down to that planet below us." She began softly, "I personally believe we can still salvage something from you, but it is your choice. Now, I have a party to attend, but before I go to that and have these two find secure accommodations for you, Admiral, I have a question. Why do you believe that we are your enemies?"

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

Khronos walked with Eris to the drinking table. He knew she wanted a strong drink by the sound of it, and so he poured them small glasses of Taar Berry Wine. An ancient wine that has to be brewed over hundreds of years; and this batch was just completed, having started being generated by the rule of Imperatrix Victoria Haris, his great-great grandmother. Khronos stared at Eris after handing her a glass, sipping his own. He held her gaze for a moment.

"If Lyson hurts anyone, ever again... I swear, I will personally throw him out the airlock after deactivating his envirosuit.", he stated firmly. And by his tone, Eris could tell he was serious. It wasn't a threat, or a soothing set of words. It was a promise. Khronos was never going to let Lyson hurt anyone, ever again. Whether or not that was scary or wonderful would depend upon how Eris felt...


Meanwhile, with Lyson, he growled as Euphemia spoke to him. In response to her question, at first, he simply spat blood at her. Taari blood was purple. Lyson grumbled for a moment as he glared with such intense hatred and rage at Euphemia, she might as well be talking with a pissed off bear. Lyson kept his glare intense at her, trying to bore holes through her skull with his eyes. As if his glaring would make her drop dead if he tried hard enough.

"Xenos have always hated and killed my people. You're all the same. The minute you decide we're a threat, we die. By the thousands. And get closer and closer to extinction. All xenos hate us. None care for us or share our feelings. None have felt what we felt... lost what we lost. You're pretenders. And that tha'jai xeno out there, pretending to love the Imperator? She's a laughable actress. I should have killed her the moment she boarded. I should have killed you before I even spoke. It disgusts me. You disgust me. If I were in charge, I'd have already exterminated you all so my people would be safe. Now, they're under threat and I can't do anything!", he finished his rant. Lyson kept his glare, and went silent...


Tha'jai: Taari word that is only in the Taari language. The closest translation would be varying words that aren't-so-friendly that mean 'prostitute'.