Depths of Space: The Uncertain Future (IC, Open)

[The Orson Empire]

Elysian Archives

As they read over the subject files, the archaeologists found them to be very disturbing. Whoever owned this facility had apparently been performing experiments on subjects of all ages and sexes in order to resurrect them from the dead. They all pulled out their datapads and began to take photos of the text so they could be reviewed later.

"Based on these Subject Files, it is probably not a good idea to resurrect these Subjects," Dr. Kai replied. "Perhaps we could leave that to another expedition in the future."

She then selected the map option, hoping to learn more about their surroundings. In the background, the other archaeologists found another terminal, which activated as they approached it. They discovered that the terminal was able to open up the weapons locker, and thus, they triggered it.

[The Greater Gambia]

---

Todval System // Jakala Orbit
Tava Military Orbital Medical Station

---

The past few days, or weeks, or however long it'd been were... spotty. The last solid thing Daniel could remember was collapsing as he entered the medical bay of the USS Pennsylvania. He remembered bits and pieces of what happened after - some doctors, bright hospital lights, some discussion about his condition and some talk of Psionics. Other than that, it was all mostly a blur. He'd been dreaming about Millie and Samantha... his wife and daughter, whom he'd left back on Earth. He hadn't even called to check up in more than three weeks... some father. He felt guilty for leaving, for he had just returned home, but it was his duty to go fight the Covenant and defend his people. Who would he be if he sat back and watched Human worlds burn? While his people are slaughtered at the hands of the Blue Menace.

As Yamin, Yaliza, and the Doctor entered the room, an odd buzzing sound, like a hum, started up faintly. Daniel looked around weakly, and eventually determined that it was coming from the two soldiers... though not exactly. It was hard to describe, but the hum seemed to be within his own head, drawing Daniel towards those two particular individuals. His attention was drawn away by the doctor, who proceeded to explain Daniel's current medical situation. At the end, he gave a slight nod and sat up, wincing as he did, and gazing at his cybernetic arm. He moved his fingers, seeming to be slightly in disbelief, but then turned his attention to the doctor.

"I feel fine, Doc" he urged, "Just get me back out on the field, I can't stand sitting in this hospital any longer"

"As the one with the medical degree, I say no. Just because you have been fine so far, doesn't mean you're... As you humans say, out of the water yet. We need a few more days to make sure your body won't reject the augmentations."

"He's right." Yaliza said. "They're making a few quick improvements to the Pennsylvania now that we've seen how she works in combat. Shiva needs some updates as well after that bout with the Kelraaza AI. Besides, after what you went through, you deserve some rest." Yamin stepped forward a little bit.

"While I do agree, there are matters that need to be attended to first. There is someone here who would like to ask you about what you witnessed on the station." Almost on queue, a tall synthetic figure, not unlike Jenik's unorganic form. This one had a more feminine figure. As it approached the much smaller door frame, its body began to shrink down and rearrange itself so that she could fit inside the room. Suddenly, in the back of Daniel's mind, a faint, familiar voice spoke up.

"Of all the Empire's servants to survive, that whore survives. The Primitive Lover." Unknowing about the inner voice of Daniel, the Kelraaza survivor spoke.

"Greetings, Captain Daniels. I am Narenzia, Leader of the Kelraaza Remnant and former Caretaker of the Sargassi Cradle. Before I begin I must apologize for the actions of Jenik. While a capable and deadly warrior, he like many in the Warrior Class never cared for younger species. The fact that he would disregard the advice of his Adjutant proves that he is... Was not compatible for this new era. While the death of a fellow Kelraaza when we are low in numbers deeply saddens me, I understand that he brought his death on himself, the blame does not rest on you."


Jakala Orbit
Battle Suit Space Combat Orbital Training Center
Combat Simulation Area


The Battle Suit Space Combat Orbital Training Center was a large ring shaped station orbiting Jakala. Its interior was packed with Battle Suit Hangars, Firing Ranges, and Simulation Areas. Inside the ring was a collection of old decommissioned ships, mostly Todval-Class Capital Ships, along with an assortment of asteroids and other space debris. While this would usually cause a catastrophe if any of it began to descend to the planet, it was kept in place by a force field, making it a training area for Battle Suits to go against one another.

Three TF-MCS "Trakuzas" escorted a TFBS4-"Pikeman" through the "Battle field".

"Keep an eye out. Strike Suit pilots have a mean tendency to sneak up on you." The lead Trakuza pilot said. The pilots of the much larger battle suits checked all around. These men had seen combat before, fought pirates, Confederate Rebels, and even one of them used to be a "Kagan" pilot during the High Breed War, yet these men were jumping at every shadow, thinking it was one of the Strike Suits.

"Wait what is that?" One of the pilots asked, looking at something in the distance. The "Pikeman" pilot aimed it's Mini MAC Rifle at the entity, looking through its scope to see that it was one of Fireteam Horsemen's "TFSS1-"Kitsunes".

"Yeah it's a Strike Suit, Paresh to be exact. What are they doing?"

"I don't like it. Paresh may be an anti-social prick, but he's not stupid. They're probably trying to-" The lead Pilot was interrupted by one of the much younger pilots, still relatively inexperienced ran in, Hard light shield and blade activated.

"He's mine!" He said, going at full speed towards the idle battle suit. The lead Battle suit pilot yelled out to recall the young pilot.

"Wait, Damajeen! Yad Tarlach Prog Vaja! It's a trap!" But the pilot didn't listen. He was too excited, thinking that today he would the only one to best one of the four horseman in a training exercise. Suddenly, Paresh turned around. The pilot could see that he was smirking his ghoulish grin. It was then that the young pilot saw his mistake, but it was too late. Suddenly, a figure crashed into his battle suit, forcing him to crash into a nearby chunk of debris. The pilot came to seconds later, looking up to see two Strike suits standing over him, weapons drawn and aimed at him. The two Strike suits fired multiple shots with their training cannons, shocking the pilot and locking his suit, making him immobile. A heavy shield kept any debris or anything from crushing him.

"Damajeen, DAMAJEEN COME IN! Dammit, I think they got him! Keep your wits about you and don't get separated!" The three remaining Battle Suits bunched together, scanning the area. out of a hole in one of the decommissioned ships, a swarm of dummy missiles shot out.

"Evade!" The lead Pilot yelled out as they sped away to avoid the missiles. The second Trakuza didn't react in time, taking most of the barrage and having his Battle Suit locked down. A pained electrified scream rang through the comms as the last remaining battle suits scattered. The last Trakuza flew behind an asteroid. He peaked around the corner, to see if the coast was clear. He suddenly heard a clanging coming from his suit. The battle suit turned around to see Luxor's Strike suit tapping on his battle suits shoulder, waving with his other cannon. The Trakuza simply looked down in disappointment, knowing what was about to happen.

The Pikeman landed on a piece of debris, using it as cover as he peaked over the top. Through his scope he noticed Marie's Strike Suits in fighter mode, flying well above the "battlefield".

"Got you bitch!" The Pikeman shot a dummy MAC round at the Strike suit. The Strike suit seemed to do nothing to evade the round, it seemed that it would be a hit. Suddenly, the Strike suit moved with lightning speed, making the MAC round miss and cause a large ripple effect as it hit the Force Field. The Strike Suit darted for the Battle Suit. The Pikeman began to aim for another shot until it noticed a second Strike suit coming in from his left. All of a sudden, another strike suit was coming in from behind, and the last one coming in from his right. The Pilot braced to be shocked as each of the strike suits fired in unison. Locking down the last Battle suit and claiming victory.

The competing pilots returned to the viewing gallery, surrounded by Battle Suit Pilots and members of the other branches, all watching the training battles as a sort of entertainment. A large screen showed the leaderboard of all of the pilots. While the average pilot had atleast 15-20 "kills", Marie and Fireteam Horsemen stood in the top 4 with around 100 "kills" each. Marie yelled out in excitement.

"So, anyone else want to have a go!?" No one took her up on her offer. They all felt like they didn't have a chance to go against the best pilots in the Federation.

"What, no takers?"

[Beiarusia]

Faul Republic
Minister Tayo
Outreach Station, Eto Prime, Eto, Faux System

...

They were really going through with it. War, or at the very least an armed engagement, though to the Faulians they were very much the one and the same at this point. A harrowing thought as the Minister processed the words of Azif as they were translated. Still, even without Admiral Latora to lead the HDF it would be unwise to leave most of the engagement to the Night’s Cradle. The Faulians, after all, were in this for better or for worse, and being a useless ally would get them nowhere.

“We may not be eager to jump headfirst into conflict but we cannot allow you to risk yourselves unnecessarily,” Tayo began, already forming a plan in her head. “Instead of brute force perhaps we should rely on our wits instead. The second gas giant in the system has a dense magnetosphere, enough so to mask a ship’s presence should it enter into a low enough orbit. I propose that our ships lay in wait in the planet’s shadow and the Night’s Cradle can then lead the Zhong Vey… the other Zhong Vey, into an ambush. If all goes as planned we can cripple the larger warships with little trouble.”

A reasonable plan if Tayo thought so herself. Would it work? Maybe, but then again nothing was set in stone. Any number of things could go wrong, but avoiding a direct confrontation for as long as possible seemed the best course of action right now.

In answer to Azif’s second question regarding the human vessels: “They’re humans who got lost. Not allies but not enemies. Given the situation we are hopeful to keep them away from the conflict if only to keep their government from using force against us should something go awry, but, being humans, I can’t guarantee how they will react.”

---

Vera
HDF Nomu, Faux System

...

“There ship seemed fine enough earlier,” Vera complained. The situation with the Zhong Vey was bad enough, but having a third party involved, especially one that was unpredictable, was even more of a headache and Vera was starting to lose her patience. Knowing for certain that the Second Chance was in working order the comm officer hailed the ship, but to her surprise there was no answer. She tried again with similar results. Giving up she returned to speaking with the Oenone. “They aren’t reacting to our hails. Very well, we will escort you to their last known position. You will be entering a civilian area. Do not deviate from course or we will take that as a sign of hostility.”

“So harsh,” Nell said from the captain’s seat.

Vera shrugged. “I’ll be nice again once this mess is sorted out.”

The Nomu and the other ships in its flotilla would act as escorts for the human warship. They would travel deeper in system to Eto where the Second Chance was currently in orbit. With luck whatever issue plagued them would be resolved quickly enough.

[The Moscow Metro Red Line]

Combat Simulation Area - Battle Suit Space Combat Orbital Training Center - Jakala Orbit

There was justifiable silence in the room. Even the Ostian mechanics who stopped by to watch were awed by the Federation's battlesuit technology. Battlesuits were the symbol of Ostian military might, and they were never exported to any nation that is not Ostia. To see another nation seemingly surpass it, was very awe-inspiring. After a seemingly eternal silence, there was a voice. "I bet two months worth of pay that the Witch Doctors could do better." All eyes turned to find the one who broke the silence. The whole group of Ostian mechanics looked at their youngest member. Immediately one of them hit him on the head.

"Quiet Armin, you don't know what you're talking about." Scolded another Ostian mechanic.

"No, I do know what I am talking about. I bet the Scalpel could beat that model, he was able to overtake a Trakuza during the Displeoa Exercises." The younger mechanic spoke defensively. "Sure, he lost, but he showed that even our older models could beat their latest ones." Another hush fell over the the crowd and the young mechanic began moving through the crowd. "I'll bring you to their hanger!"

---

Hanger S7 - Battle Suit Space Combat Orbital Training Center - Jakala Orbit

The Ostian pilots were not paying much attention to what was going on inside. They were enjoying their lunch time before they had to partake in their scheduled training session. Six battlesuits were lined up in the hanger and two different teams of mechanics. One team worked on the five battlesuits while the other worked on a single battlesuit. Witch Doctor Team's battlesuits faced on side of the hanger while the lone Su-01 stood on the otherwise by itself. The scheduled training was for an exercise between the five EI-16s and the Su-01, whether they could work together in future combat operations. Messer was cleaning his knife when he heard two of the mechanics talking to one another. "I miss home alot, especially the songs I used to hear in my home town", the mechanic lamented as he cleaned his tools.

"Really? Because I hear the same damn track playing every single time you are working by yourself." The other mechanic scolded, as he too was cleaning the tools.

"Nothing beats live music, which played everyday in my hometown." The mechanic spoke longingly and examining the cleaned tool.

"You want music?" Messer spoke up which shocked the two mechanics. "My team does other things than fight, we play music together sometimes." He whistled to his team who immediately stopped what they were doing and went over to a crate and opened it. They took out musical instruments and sat in a small semi-circle. "To be honest, we'd planned on practicing during our lunch period. What song would you like to hear?"

The mechanic thought for awhile before responding, "Da sind wir aber immer noch."

"Da sind wir aber immer noch? Mmmm, it sounds better with a male and female singer. Unfortunately, Herta sings like short-circuited control panel then an angel." After he said this, Herta punched him in the shoulder with her free hand. "Ow! Sorry but I was telling the truth. But I guess we can make do with just the male lead." He gestured for the two mechanics to come closer to their semi-circle. "Take a seat and listen to the sound of the Witch Doctors", Messer spoke happily with an elated look on his face. The other mechanic team and Minna paid no attention to this gathering. The mechanics of the Su-01 felt that they were better then the come rabble and thus did not want anything to do with them. Messer cleared his throat and his team readied their instruments.

"Da sind wir aber immer noch, und der Staat ist noch da, den Arbeiter erbauen. Das Land, es lebt, es lebe hoch, weil Arbeiter sich traun."

"Am Anfang ging da ein Gerücht, dass der Wagen das nicht hält und die Achse schon zerbricht. Der Deutsche tät zwar seine Pflicht, doch mit dieser Führung nicht."

This small group of musicians were facing the entrance to the hanger. At the first refrain, the mechanic began clapping along to it and gestured his friend to do so. Da sind wir aber immer noch was a very popular song in the Protectorate. There was something magical to it. Something that made the lowest and highest of Ostians feel elated and patriotic to their country. It was an inviting song. A song that was meant to elevate the spirits of the listener.

"Da sind wir aber immer noch, und der Staat ist noch da, den Arbeiter erbauen. Das Land, es lebt, es lebe hoch, weil Arbeiter sich traun."

Messer noticed from that Second Lieutenant Linden just joined the circle, sitting right behind the mechanics. This action then prompted the other team to join the circle as well. The audience turned from two to nineteen. He also noticed how the Second Lieutenant was mouthing the lyrics to the song as he sang it.

"Und als die Sache besser lief, weil die Suppe nicht mehr dünn war und der Dreck nicht mehr so tief, da war´s dass man vom Westen rief: Ihr geht grade, doch der Weg ist schief!"

"Da sind wir aber immer noch, und der Staat ist noch da, den Arbeiter erbauen. Das Land, es lebt, es lebe hoch, weil Arbeiter sich traun."

Minna not only began to sing along, but she stood up and stood beside Messer much to everyone's surprise. But despite this surprise, they kept playing and noticed a crowd of people being led by one of their mechanics coming into the hanger. Minna began singing the next verse, unfazed by the incoming crowd who became more quiet as they heard the music being played.

"Und als die Welt es anerkannt, Springers Gänsefüßchen-Land zwischen Elb- und Oderstrand, da kam die Bruder- und Schwesterhand. Lieber hätten sie uns überrannt."

Her singing surprised Messer and everyone other Ostian. For much of the trip, Minna had isolated herself from the rest of her comrades and was seen as an outcast even among her feel Ostians. Almost everyone had negative feelings about her and were uneasy around her presence. Their "Witch" had a truly soothing voice, something that even they could not help but listen to.

"Da sind wir aber immer noch, und der Staat ist noch da, den Arbeiter erbauen. Das Land, es lebt, es lebe hoch, weil Arbeiter sich traun."

"Und wenn uns was zu Schaden ging, da kam´s von nebenan – das wussten wir ja. Doch wenn uns was zu blühn anfing,da war´n wir plötzlich nicht mehr da."

"Da sind wir aber immer noch, und der Staat ist noch da, den Arbeiter erbauen. Das Land, es lebt, es lebe hoch, weil Arbeiter sich traun."

When the song was over, the whole area was filled with various of soldiers and mechanics. They all clapped and cheered at the end of the song. His team stood up from their seats. Messer gestured towards Linden who was right next to him. They both bowed first, followed by the musicians and repeated the bowing again. After this a rather young mechanic approached Messer, very eager to speak to him.

"Second Lieutenant Messer?" The young mechanic spoke loudly to his idol.

"Yes, your name is Hans, right?" Messer responded, and glanced towards the Second Lieutenant who still stood next to him. She took out a cigarette from her left breast pocket of her jacket and lit it. "What do you want to talk about?"

"Well, do you think you- I mean your team can beat the Four Horsemen in a duel?" The young mechanic said excitedly. Messer was genuinely puzzled until he noticed a few familiar faces pushing through the crowd towards him.

---

((OOC: Here they come.....))
Secure Ostian Military Transmission to the Commanding Officer of the Alliance Military in the Moresti System

This is Admiral Baum to the Commanding Officer of the Alliance Military in the Moresti System. The forty-third fleet of the Ostian Navy is warping into the system shortly from your held side. As per the lend-lease act, we are here to assist you under the banner of the Solis Alliance Military. I have 1,125 vessels incoming. It might now be much, but fresh reinforcements are better than nothing. I have 5 carriers, 98 battlecruisers, 360 cruisers,150 destroyers, 400 frigates, and 112 support vessels. Three of the 98 battlecruisers have bastions installed into them. If you don't already know, bastions are deployable fortresses. They are military bases that can be dropped from orbit using a battlecruiser. Their armor is thicker than a battlecruiser so it should be able to soak up most ground fire on the way down. I also have 3rd Valkyire Regiment, 99th Mechanized Infantry Brigade and 15th and 18th light infantry battalions on standby. We should be in the system momentarily out.

Just after the transmission was sent, a fleet of unknown ships arrived in the system. They were identifiable as Ostian Navy vessels but all had Solis Alliance markings as well as designations such as the USS Mulberry, the USS Dresden, the USS Unrelenting Avenger and the USS Morbid Angel II. This comparatively small fleet began to reach the rear of the Alliance lines in the system.

---

Secure Ostian Military Transmission to the Commanding Officer of the Alliance Military in the Sol System

This is Admiral Clara Solberg commanding the 9th and 21st combined fleet. We're just outside the system and are observing the current events. It seems that the Covenant have a good hold in the Oort Cloud. I have 2,631 ships at my disposal, it isn't much but I could strike at the cloud while the Covenant are gathering their strength. This should distract them for awhile or force them to move ships away from the front-lines. I'll have the few ships carrying ground troops find a way into your lines, unless you have a better idea.

Just like the ships at Moresti System, there was a fleet of 2,631 ships outside of the Sol System. They were ship types identifiable to the Ostian Navy but had Solis Alliance markings and designations.

---

Krasny System

A secure transmission was sent to ships of the Ark union.

Government of the Autocratic Ostian Protectorate

Mistress Marlis Sorge
Minister of the Exterior, Autocratic Ostian Protectorate
Ostia System, Nue Berlin, Ministry of Exterior
Cc: Ark Union Government
RE: Current Situtation

To Those of the Government of the Ark Union,

Greetings, I am Minister Marlis Sorge of the Ostian Ministry of the Exterior. I am reviewing your current situation and it seems like you are in need of assistance regarding the state of your vessels and the number of people you need to feed. The Ostian Government is willing to assist you the best it can at the moment. But rest assured that if you try to take the system from us, we shall regard it as an act of war and will respond accordingly.

But you do have permission to use the planet of Krasny for the time being. I have given orders to the Ostian Navy Garrison at Krasny to provide any assistance that you may require. More ships and relief will arrive in the next few hours or the next day.

[The Greater Gambia]

Combat Simulation Area - Battle Suit Space Combat Orbital Training Center - Jakala Orbit

There was justifiable silence in the room. Even the Ostian mechanics who stopped by to watch were awed by the Federation's battlesuit technology. Battlesuits were the symbol of Ostian military might, and they were never exported to any nation that is not Ostia. To see another nation seemingly surpass it, was very awe-inspiring. After a seemingly eternal silence, there was a voice. "I bet two months worth of pay that the Witch Doctors could do better." All eyes turned to find the one who broke the silence. The whole group of Ostian mechanics looked at their youngest member. Immediately one of them hit him on the head.

"Quiet Armin, you don't know what you're talking about." Scolded another Ostian mechanic.

"No, I do know what I am talking about. I bet the Scalpel could beat that model, he was able to overtake a Trakuza during the Displeoa Exercises." The younger mechanic spoke defensively. "Sure, he lost, but he showed that even our older models could beat their latest ones." Another hush fell over the the crowd and the young mechanic began moving through the crowd. "I'll bring you to their hanger!"

---

Hanger S7 - Battle Suit Space Combat Orbital Training Center - Jakala Orbit

The Ostian pilots were not paying much attention to what was going on inside. They were enjoying their lunch time before they had to partake in their scheduled training session. Six battlesuits were lined up in the hanger and two different teams of mechanics. One team worked on the five battlesuits while the other worked on a single battlesuit. Witch Doctor Team's battlesuits faced on side of the hanger while the lone Su-01 stood on the otherwise by itself. The scheduled training was for an exercise between the five EI-16s and the Su-01, whether they could work together in future combat operations. Messer was cleaning his knife when he heard two of the mechanics talking to one another. "I miss home alot, especially the songs I used to hear in my home town", the mechanic lamented as he cleaned his tools.

"Really? Because I hear the same damn track playing every single time you are working by yourself." The other mechanic scolded, as he too was cleaning the tools.

"Nothing beats live music, which played everyday in my hometown." The mechanic spoke longingly and examining the cleaned tool.

"You want music?" Messer spoke up which shocked the two mechanics. "My team does other things than fight, we play music together sometimes." He whistled to his team who immediately stopped what they were doing and went over to a crate and opened it. They took out musical instruments and sat in a small semi-circle. "To be honest, we'd planned on practicing during our lunch period. What song would you like to hear?"

The mechanic thought for awhile before responding, "Da sind wir aber immer noch."

"Da sind wir aber immer noch? Mmmm, it sounds better with a male and female singer. Unfortunately, Herta sings like short-circuited control panel then an angel." After he said this, Herta punched him in the shoulder with her free hand. "Ow! Sorry but I was telling the truth. But I guess we can make do with just the male lead." He gestured for the two mechanics to come closer to their semi-circle. "Take a seat and listen to the sound of the Witch Doctors", Messer spoke happily with an elated look on his face. The other mechanic team and Minna paid no attention to this gathering. The mechanics of the Su-01 felt that they were better then the come rabble and thus did not want anything to do with them. Messer cleared his throat and his team readied their instruments.

"Da sind wir aber immer noch, und der Staat ist noch da, den Arbeiter erbauen. Das Land, es lebt, es lebe hoch, weil Arbeiter sich traun."

"Am Anfang ging da ein Gerücht, dass der Wagen das nicht hält und die Achse schon zerbricht. Der Deutsche tät zwar seine Pflicht, doch mit dieser Führung nicht."

This small group of musicians were facing the entrance to the hanger. At the first refrain, the mechanic began clapping along to it and gestured his friend to do so. Da sind wir aber immer noch was a very popular song in the Protectorate. There was something magical to it. Something that made the lowest and highest of Ostians feel elated and patriotic to their country. It was an inviting song. A song that was meant to elevate the spirits of the listener.

"Da sind wir aber immer noch, und der Staat ist noch da, den Arbeiter erbauen. Das Land, es lebt, es lebe hoch, weil Arbeiter sich traun."

Messer noticed from that Second Lieutenant Linden just joined the circle, sitting right behind the mechanics. This action then prompted the other team to join the circle as well. The audience turned from two to nineteen. He also noticed how the Second Lieutenant was mouthing the lyrics to the song as he sang it.

"Und als die Sache besser lief, weil die Suppe nicht mehr dünn war und der Dreck nicht mehr so tief, da war´s dass man vom Westen rief: Ihr geht grade, doch der Weg ist schief!"

"Da sind wir aber immer noch, und der Staat ist noch da, den Arbeiter erbauen. Das Land, es lebt, es lebe hoch, weil Arbeiter sich traun."

Minna not only began to sing along, but she stood up and stood beside Messer much to everyone's surprise. But despite this surprise, they kept playing and noticed a crowd of people being led by one of their mechanics coming into the hanger. Minna began singing the next verse, unfazed by the incoming crowd who became more quiet as they heard the music being played.

"Und als die Welt es anerkannt, Springers Gänsefüßchen-Land zwischen Elb- und Oderstrand, da kam die Bruder- und Schwesterhand. Lieber hätten sie uns überrannt."

Her singing surprised Messer and everyone other Ostian. For much of the trip, Minna had isolated herself from the rest of her comrades and was seen as an outcast even among her feel Ostians. Almost everyone had negative feelings about her and were uneasy around her presence. Their "Witch" had a truly soothing voice, something that even they could not help but listen to.

"Da sind wir aber immer noch, und der Staat ist noch da, den Arbeiter erbauen. Das Land, es lebt, es lebe hoch, weil Arbeiter sich traun."

"Und wenn uns was zu Schaden ging, da kam´s von nebenan – das wussten wir ja. Doch wenn uns was zu blühn anfing,da war´n wir plötzlich nicht mehr da."

"Da sind wir aber immer noch, und der Staat ist noch da, den Arbeiter erbauen. Das Land, es lebt, es lebe hoch, weil Arbeiter sich traun."

When the song was over, the whole area was filled with various of soldiers and mechanics. They all clapped and cheered at the end of the song. His team stood up from their seats. Messer gestured towards Linden who was right next to him. They both bowed first, followed by the musicians and repeated the bowing again. After this a rather young mechanic approached Messer, very eager to speak to him.

"Second Lieutenant Messer?" The young mechanic spoke loudly to his idol.

"Yes, your name is Hans, right?" Messer responded, and glanced towards the Second Lieutenant who still stood next to him. She took out a cigarette from her left breast pocket of her jacket and lit it. "What do you want to talk about?"

"Well, do you think you- I mean your team can beat the Four Horsemen in a duel?" The young mechanic said excitedly. Messer was genuinely puzzled until he noticed a few familiar faces pushing through the crowd towards him.

Marie and the other members of Fireteam Horseman followed the mechanic to Messer, hoping that the reason that the Federation added Hardlight shields and blades would prove a good challenge for her an her team. Marie stepped forward.

"So, we meet again, Scapel. Your Mechanic over here says that your...." Marie looked over toward the Ostian Battlesuits, trying to insinuate that the Ostian Battle Suits were of lesser quality to rile them up. "....Battle Suits can take on our Strike Suits. So, how about it? We still never got to fight each other this year in the Disploea Exercise. You know the 4th Mecha Corp Division still hasn't recovered from that beating you laid on poor Jasaam."

[The Moscow Metro Red Line]

Hanger S7 - Battle Suit Space Combat Orbital Training Center - Jakala Orbit

Messer looked at Marie, and looked back at his team. "Well, you would be correct." This comment caused all the Ostian mechanics to gasp. Did he really say that? "An updated version of a seventy-five year old design is not going to compete as well against a top of the line modern battlesuit frame. That interesting gimmick of your ... strike suit, gives you an edge in mobility." He turned to his team and nodded at them, they began navigating the crowd to put their instruments away. He then looked at his engineering team, "Can you have a damaged suit work just like new with the parts we have available?"

The mechanics grinned. "Of course Second Lieutenant, we have extra shields as well." They immediately began navigating the crowd towards the parked battlesuits.

"But if you really want me to break your newest toy. Just be prepared for a pricey bill." There was a cheer in the crowd, by now the Messer's team had finished putting their instruments away and were behind their leader. Three of his team were human, the other one was a Kreigschen.

[The NAR]

---

Todval System // Jakala Orbit
Tava Military Orbital Medical Station

---

Daniel winced as a voice spoke up in the back of his head, and felt his temple. When the Kelraaza started speaking, though, he lowered he synthetic arm and paid attention. "It's good to meet a Kelraaza that isn't trying to kill me" he responded with a weak smile, trying to make light of the situation. "Is there something you'd like to know in particular?".

[The Greater Gambia]

---

Todval System // Jakala Orbit
Tava Military Orbital Medical Station

---

Daniel winced as a voice spoke up in the back of his head, and felt his temple. When the Kelraaza started speaking, though, he lowered he synthetic arm and paid attention. "It's good to meet a Kelraaza that isn't trying to kill me" he responded with a weak smile, trying to make light of the situation. "Is there something you'd like to know in particular?".

Narenzia began to walk back and forth as she spoke.

"Yaliza says that they lost contact with you and your team when the Stations Adjutant kicked Shiva out of the systems. When communications were resumed, you were severely injured and your squad murdered at the hands of Jenik, yet we don't know what happened exactly. While cooperative, your comrade, Gomez hasn't been a reliable source of information due to trauma caused by the incident. Do you mind telling us what happened?"

Jakala Orbit
Battle Suit Space Combat Orbital Training Center
Hanger S7


Marie smiled with glee.

"Finally, someone with some fire. If you think your Battle Suits can prove a match, then prove it. We'll be waiting in the hangar."

[Ithalian Empire]

"That will not be needed." A voice message containing the emotionless voice of the Nev Warks replied. "If we are needed on the ground, we shall make it known." They were blunt, to the point, and undiplomatic. The Nev Warks also did not trust anyone else with their transport. They had a unique way of getting down to the surface that was very similar to how humans sent in their fast-acting infantry squads. Their orders were simply to overwatch the Chemakos and make sure they got their mission done without any incident.

The Chemako corvettes all moved into the assigned orbit and awaited the shuttle transport. For transport were the workers, their supplies and machinery, as well as the guards and overseers of the project. The Chemakos weren't very good with convential weapons so their guards had a bit of an odd setup. They were completely covered in a suit that was provided by the humans that increased their physical abilities while building weapons into the suit itself. They were very noticeable among the rest as they were these metal apes among regular apes.

The shuttling started as soon as the Chemakos transports had entered the orbit they were assigned. The entire process took half the day, by the time they were all down on the surface the Antivarian sun was blazing high in the blue sky. Antivarian summers are generally hot all around and this year it was going to be above average in terms of heat.

The Chemakos were greeted by Grand Colonial Army infantrymen in olive green soft uniformes. This was to be their escort to their barracks. The army men looked the Chemakos guards over a few time, they stood out from their fellows and while there uniforms were rather odd the looked like they would give a good fight, and probably be a hell of a drinking partner.

The Barracks were modest but comfortable, each Chemakos received his own bed and the rooms were air conditioned, not even Antivarian servicemen could expect to receive such welcoming accommodations. Tomorrow the Chemakos were to be transported to the sight of the embassy to begin breaking ground, for now they were left to their own devices.

[The Moscow Metro Red Line]

Hanger S7 - Battle Suit Space Combat Orbital Training Center - Jakala Orbit

"Oh, I don't think they'll be a match. But I do like to hone my skills and keep myself sharp." Messer humbly replied, before nodding his team to get to their battlesuits. The mechanics were already at work, preparing them for launch and the crowd began to dissipate out of the hanger and back to the viewing gallery. Messer and his team were gathered in a small circle around a holo-projector showing the training area.

"You think we can beat them?" Messer asked his team as he was examining the battlefield.

"Judging from the strike-suits capabilities in the recent engagement, I estimate that they are at-least 5 times faster than our frame in their fighter-mode," Under Lieutenant Herta Lenz spoke first, playing around with a data-slate showing a small holo-representation of the four strike-suits flying around the battlefield. "It would be suicide if we leave the protection of the debris field."

"We also have to consider the fact that they have trained longer in this area than us", Warrant Officer Gunter Hyun Yi spoke up. Gunter was the latest addition to the Witch Doctor who was added to the rooster a few months ago after their oldest member retired from the military. He was the youngest among the Witch Doctors, being 25 years old with only 3 years of military experience. Of course he was honored to be part of the elite Witch Doctors, but still had much to learn. Gunter was 5' 7'' in height, had raven black hair and a medium build. He descended from the few thousand Asian colonists centuries ago and he still had the look of his ancestors. But despite his age, he had the good feel of the battlefield.

"Not bad, Bunter", Warrant Officer Gustaf Sitz joked and hit him on the back. Gustaf was the team's designated marksman. Even though all of them specialized in close-quarters combat, Messer being the best, Gustaf was given a longer barreled assault rifle. His ammunition load-out was also different, allowing him to fire specialized grenades from the rifle itself. "However I must point out that they use energy weapons while we use thermite rounds. But those might change considering how this is training."

"Second Lieutenant Messer, how do we plan to limit the mobility of the strike-suits?" Staff-Warrant Officer Haka Arach asked in his deep voice. Haka was the second xeno to join the Witch Doctors, the first was F'eresha who was a Schlange. F'eresha was an interesting pilot considering that she had a tail rather than two legs. But despite this she was able to maneuver the battlesuit quite well than what is expected. But she retired from the military after fifteen years of service, the last three years being apart of Witch Doctor Team. Haka replaced F'eresha just five years ago. He was the typical Kreigschen, very proud, very tall and very much into titles and respect. Despite the many times Messer insisted on calling him Erik or Scalpel, Haka insists on calling him by his title.

"Perhaps we should have Herta and Gunter carry the trapping equipment with them. The tractor beam traps to be exact, now that would be something." Messer responded to Haka. "Also, you don't have to address me like that."

"I must, Second Lieutenant Messer. If I do not, that would be dishonoring your name and prestige." Haka replied forcibly. "Should I have the same equipment?"

"That would be fine, Wrench is everything ready?" Messser yelled to the head mechanic.

"Everything a-okay on our end. Your battlesuits are on the catapult but we can add any other equipment if you want", the head mechanic replied as the various mechanics were preping the catapult for launch.

Messer tossed the data-slate to the head mechanic who looked it over. "Get that equipment on the battlesuits as well." After fifteen minutes of preparation a signal was sent to the four horsemen hanger that they were ready to launch on their end.

[The NAR]

---

Todval System // Jakala Orbit
Tava Military Orbital Medical Station

---

Daniel lowered his head, gazing at his mechanical arm as if he missed his real one. He sighed, nodding slightly, and began to explain what had happened in the Command Center to the best of his abilities. "Well we showed up, secured a perimeter and then connected the AI to the central processing unit. There were some difficulties, since she couldn't bypass the cyber-security systems, so we were forced to sit tight and wait. Some robot showed up, attacked us, but quickly freed us when it learned of our victory over the Highbreed". Daniel scratched his chin, trying to gather the words for what happened after that. "Then that Kelraaza Remnant, Jenik, showed up. He... he slaughtered my men - sliced them to pieces... nearly killed Gomez too but I managed to put a few rounds in his back and distract him. This Jenik guy he... he moved so fast, man, before I could even react my arm was laying on the floor and he was holding me in the air by the throat. He said something about... I don't know, Humans and the fact that Psionics aren't usually an in-born gift, and started doing something. I don't remember exactly but next thing I knew, he disintegrated, and I was left on the floor until the Feds showed up". Daniel looked down once more, visually shaken.

[Naretion]

"That will not be needed." A voice message containing the emotionless voice of the Nev Warks replied. "If we are needed on the ground, we shall make it known." They were blunt, to the point, and undiplomatic. The Nev Warks also did not trust anyone else with their transport. They had a unique way of getting down to the surface that was very similar to how humans sent in their fast-acting infantry squads. Their orders were simply to overwatch the Chemakos and make sure they got their mission done without any incident.

The Chemako corvettes all moved into the assigned orbit and awaited the shuttle transport. For transport were the workers, their supplies and machinery, as well as the guards and overseers of the project. The Chemakos weren't very good with convential weapons so their guards had a bit of an odd setup. They were completely covered in a suit that was provided by the humans that increased their physical abilities while building weapons into the suit itself. They were very noticeable among the rest as they were these metal apes among regular apes.

The shuttling started as soon as the Chemakos transports had entered the orbit they were assigned. The entire process took half the day, by the time they were all down on the surface the Antivarian sun was blazing high in the blue sky. Antivarian summers are generally hot all around and this year it was going to be above average in terms of heat.

The Chemakos were greeted by Grand Colonial Army infantrymen in olive green soft uniformes. This was to be their escort to their barracks. The army men looked the Chemakos guards over a few time, they stood out from their fellows and while there uniforms were rather odd the looked like they would give a good fight, and probably be a hell of a drinking partner.

The Barracks were modest but comfortable, each Chemakos received his own bed and the rooms were air conditioned, not even Antivarian servicemen could expect to receive such welcoming accommodations. Tomorrow the Chemakos were to be transported to the sight of the embassy to begin breaking ground, for now they were left to their own devices.

The Chemakos found the barracks they were led to to be beyond expectations. Chemakos lived natively in jungles and forests, having never developed any sense of architecture. They had only experienced climate control on board ships and never really got to sleep in beds. They were unknown privileges, but also very odd for some of them to get used to.

The suit-covered Chemako guards stood at every entrance to make sure no one got in or out without permission. The Chemakos were not a civilized bunch so the guards were mainly there to make sure no Chemako misbehaved. Each Chemako guard's suit had built in transmitters that constantly sent out feeds to the Nev Wark ships so that the Nev Warks could keep a good eye on them as well.

[True Refuge]

Captain Syrinx and Oenone
Faux, Faulian Republic

...

"Thank you," Syrinx replied, "and apologies for the low level of equipment that the Second Chance has, it's just a ridiculous budget thing. I'll start moving towards them. It'll take a while for the docking procedure to take place and the extraction of whatever valuables are on-board, however little there is. "

Sly-minx, when do I get to talk?
Come on, Ony, be patient. They don't know what voidhawks are or bitek for that matter. Wait until we're allies.
But your uncle takes forever with that stuff...

Syrinx scoffed at the murmuring Oenone and issued orders to start flying to the ship playing dead. The five hawks, their captains and their crews doing the same nearby, had a tense mood settling in, now that their flagship had moved away. It was only slightly unexpected, and the captains were hardened, but the event still sparked a little fear, reminding them of how serious the situation really was. Syrinx, on the other hand, was cruising, enjoying it as much as one could, flying by with the cheeky and childish ship.

"Initiate docking procedure once we're in range. Keep affinity updates coming through, please."

[Ubaria]

Aboard the Nights Cradle - 1st Diplomatic Flotilla
Fleet Comander Zhar-Cull Azif Callur
Orbit of Eto Prime - Faul System

The Minister had entertained a rather wily and cunning plan, to use the natural magnetic emissions from the nearby gas planet as a form of concealment, to mask their signal from the sensors of whatever was to jump in the system. The plan itself had no flaws but the fault potentially lied with the nature of Zhong Vey ship design, where the electronics were engineered in such a way that they were especially sensitive to high concentrations of magnetic and electromagnetic radiation, often creating small scale disruptions of on-board systems and in some cases, total power failure. There had been multiple recorded instances of solar waves knocking ships completely out of commission for days at a time. Diverting a large amount of power to the shields would most likely buy them enough time in this scenario, but it would leave them blind and without weapon power until they cleared the planets magnetosphere.

"Then it is decided. They shall fall into our snare and we shall gut them like wild beasts."

As for the second matter, about the Humans, it presented a likely complication in matters, one that could prove even more fatal than a Zhong Vey incursion flotilla jumping in. There was no telling how they would react once the shooting started.

"Understood. Try to keep these...Humans from harms way. As for the fleet, we will start running battle simulations and preparing for combat. Prepare your ships accordingly and we shall speak again sooner to the battle. A long road awaits us."

[The Greater Gambia]

---

Todval System // Jakala Orbit
Tava Military Orbital Medical Station

---

Daniel lowered his head, gazing at his mechanical arm as if he missed his real one. He sighed, nodding slightly, and began to explain what had happened in the Command Center to the best of his abilities. "Well we showed up, secured a perimeter and then connected the AI to the central processing unit. There were some difficulties, since she couldn't bypass the cyber-security systems, so we were forced to sit tight and wait. Some robot showed up, attacked us, but quickly freed us when it learned of our victory over the Highbreed". Daniel scratched his chin, trying to gather the words for what happened after that. "Then that Kelraaza Remnant, Jenik, showed up. He... he slaughtered my men - sliced them to pieces... nearly killed Gomez too but I managed to put a few rounds in his back and distract him. This Jenik guy he... he moved so fast, man, before I could even react my arm was laying on the floor and he was holding me in the air by the throat. He said something about... I don't know, Humans and the fact that Psionics aren't usually an in-born gift, and started doing something. I don't remember exactly but next thing I knew, he disintegrated, and I was left on the floor until the Feds showed up". Daniel looked down once more, visually shaken.

"I'm sorry, I won't burden you more with questions. However, I think there is something you should know." Narenzia nodded toward the doctor, who then began to type something into the device on his wrist. Three Holographic panels appeared, each one showing a scan of a brain. The Doctor gestured to the first panel.

"This is the brain of a normal human, perfectly functional and healthy, but it lacks the potential to naturally manipulate psionic energy." The Doctor moved over to the next panel. The second Brain was similar to the first one, with the exception of a relatively large module inserted in the back of the brain. The scan also showed what could be described as a sort of purple cloud enveloping sections of the brain, most of it being generated by the module.

"Now this is a scan of a brain from a recent Psytherapy session of Human who has just recently had Psionic Amp surgery. You can see here that a Psy-Amp has been inserted in the rear of the brain to act as a psionic generator, creating this cloud of psionic energy you see travelling throughout the brain. This surgery allows Humans and other non-psionic capable species the same abilities as those gifted with psionics. However, learning from the mistakes of their counterparts in other civilizations, the Federation clocks these amps at the Omicron level of the Voidambia scale, for their safety and everyone elses."

The Doctor made his way to the third panel. This brain was once again a normal human brain, no implants, no amps, nothing. However, it retained the clouds of psionic energy, even more had enveloped the brain. On the back of the brain, however, there was a small growth that was barely noticeable.

"And finally, here's your brain. When you came in, the Federation Medics and some of the personnel reported that they felt a powerful psionic presence resonating from you. Fearing that it was some sort of new psionic ability that was unknown to us, the Lord of Intelligence here ordered a scan. Upon further investigation, we discovered that you possessed an amount of psionic energy comparable to a Delta level psionic, one of the highest levels on the Voidambia scale." Yamin stepped forward.

"You're a Psionic, Captain Daniel. Whatever Jenik did to you, it seems that was more of a benefit than a negative."

[The NAR]

---

Todval System // Jakala Orbit
Tava Military Orbital Medical Station

---

Daniel lowered his head, gazing at his mechanical arm as if he missed his real one. He sighed, nodding slightly, and began to explain what had happened in the Command Center to the best of his abilities. "Well we showed up, secured a perimeter and then connected the AI to the central processing unit. There were some difficulties, since she couldn't bypass the cyber-security systems, so we were forced to sit tight and wait. Some robot showed up, attacked us, but quickly freed us when it learned of our victory over the Highbreed". Daniel scratched his chin, trying to gather the words for what happened after that. "Then that Kelraaza Remnant, Jenik, showed up. He... he slaughtered my men - sliced them to pieces... nearly killed Gomez too but I managed to put a few rounds in his back and distract him. This Jenik guy he... he moved so fast, man, before I could even react my arm was laying on the floor and he was holding me in the air by the throat. He said something about... I don't know, Humans and the fact that Psionics aren't usually an in-born gift, and started doing something. I don't remember exactly but next thing I knew, he disintegrated, and I was left on the floor until the Feds showed up". Daniel looked down once more, visually shaken.

"I'm sorry, I won't burden you more with questions. However, I think there is something you should know." Narenzia nodded toward the doctor, who then began to type something into the device on his wrist. Three Holographic panels appeared, each one showing a scan of a brain. The Doctor gestured to the first panel.

"This is the brain of a normal human, perfectly functional and healthy, but it lacks the potential to naturally manipulate psionic energy." The Doctor moved over to the next panel. The second Brain was similar to the first one, with the exception of a relatively large module inserted in the back of the brain. The scan also showed what could be described as a sort of purple cloud enveloping sections of the brain, most of it being generated by the module.

"Now this is a scan of a brain from a recent Psytherapy session of Human who has just recently had Psionic Amp surgery. You can see here that a Psy-Amp has been inserted in the rear of the brain to act as a psionic generator, creating this cloud of psionic energy you see travelling throughout the brain. This surgery allows Humans and other non-psionic capable species the same abilities as those gifted with psionics. However, learning from the mistakes of their counterparts in other civilizations, the Federation clocks these amps at the Omicron level of the Voidambia scale, for their safety and everyone elses."

The Doctor made his way to the third panel. This brain was once again a normal human brain, no implants, no amps, nothing. However, it retained the clouds of psionic energy, even more had enveloped the brain. On the back of the brain, however, there was a small growth that was barely noticeable.

"And finally, here's your brain. When you came in, the Federation Medics and some of the personnel reported that they felt a powerful psionic presence resonating from you. Fearing that it was some sort of new psionic ability that was unknown to us, the Lord of Intelligence here ordered a scan. Upon further investigation, we discovered that you possessed an amount of psionic energy comparable to a Delta level psionic, one of the highest levels on the Voidambia scale." Yamin stepped forward.

"You're a Psionic, Captain Daniel. Whatever Jenik did to you, it seems that was more of a benefit than a negative."

Daniel rubbed his head, raising an eyebrow, and tried to remember exactly what Jenik did. It was incredibly painful, he knew that much, but he couldn't seem to recall exactly what was said, and what happened. Every time he got close to a mental breakthrough, it was like it was all taken away, and he had to remember from scratch. Daniel grabbed the nearby glass of water, taking a few long gulps, then set it back down. "Well if that's true, I have some questions. The headaches... are they normal? And the voice?"

[The Greater Gambia]

"I'm sorry, I won't burden you more with questions. However, I think there is something you should know." Narenzia nodded toward the doctor, who then began to type something into the device on his wrist. Three Holographic panels appeared, each one showing a scan of a brain. The Doctor gestured to the first panel.

"This is the brain of a normal human, perfectly functional and healthy, but it lacks the potential to naturally manipulate psionic energy." The Doctor moved over to the next panel. The second Brain was similar to the first one, with the exception of a relatively large module inserted in the back of the brain. The scan also showed what could be described as a sort of purple cloud enveloping sections of the brain, most of it being generated by the module.

"Now this is a scan of a brain from a recent Psytherapy session of Human who has just recently had Psionic Amp surgery. You can see here that a Psy-Amp has been inserted in the rear of the brain to act as a psionic generator, creating this cloud of psionic energy you see travelling throughout the brain. This surgery allows Humans and other non-psionic capable species the same abilities as those gifted with psionics. However, learning from the mistakes of their counterparts in other civilizations, the Federation clocks these amps at the Omicron level of the Voidambia scale, for their safety and everyone elses."

The Doctor made his way to the third panel. This brain was once again a normal human brain, no implants, no amps, nothing. However, it retained the clouds of psionic energy, even more had enveloped the brain. On the back of the brain, however, there was a small growth that was barely noticeable.

"And finally, here's your brain. When you came in, the Federation Medics and some of the personnel reported that they felt a powerful psionic presence resonating from you. Fearing that it was some sort of new psionic ability that was unknown to us, the Lord of Intelligence here ordered a scan. Upon further investigation, we discovered that you possessed an amount of psionic energy comparable to a Delta level psionic, one of the highest levels on the Voidambia scale." Yamin stepped forward.

"You're a Psionic, Captain Daniel. Whatever Jenik did to you, it seems that was more of a benefit than a negative."

Daniel rubbed his head, raising an eyebrow, and tried to remember exactly what Jenik did. It was incredibly painful, he knew that much, but he couldn't seem to recall exactly what was said, and what happened. Every time he got close to a mental breakthrough, it was like it was all taken away, and he had to remember from scratch. Daniel grabbed the nearby glass of water, taking a few long gulps, then set it back down. "Well if that's true, I have some questions. The headaches... are they normal? And the voice?"

If Narenzia's synthetic form managed to raise an eyebrow at Daniel's mention of "voices". The Doctor, meanwhile tried to give a medical explanation.

"In species that are naturally inclined to psionics, when an individual reaches puberty and begins to show psionic potential, it's very common for one to experience migraines. As for the voices, that could possibly be your body having not adapted yet to the psionic energy. You're probably just hearing the thoughts of people in the general vicinity. As you hone in your abilities, you should naturally begin to block it out unless you purposefully try to do so."

"But that's not what you mean, is it?" Narenzia asked. Somehow, she faintly sensed the presence of another resonating from Daniel. It was a fellow Kelraaza.

[The NAR]

Daniel rubbed his head, raising an eyebrow, and tried to remember exactly what Jenik did. It was incredibly painful, he knew that much, but he couldn't seem to recall exactly what was said, and what happened. Every time he got close to a mental breakthrough, it was like it was all taken away, and he had to remember from scratch. Daniel grabbed the nearby glass of water, taking a few long gulps, then set it back down. "Well if that's true, I have some questions. The headaches... are they normal? And the voice?"

If Narenzia's synthetic form managed to raise an eyebrow at Daniel's mention of "voices". The Doctor, meanwhile tried to give a medical explanation.

"In species that are naturally inclined to psionics, when an individual reaches puberty and begins to show psionic potential, it's very common for one to experience migraines. As for the voices, that could possibly be your body having not adapted yet to the psionic energy. You're probably just hearing the thoughts of people in the general vicinity. As you hone in your abilities, you should naturally begin to block it out unless you purposefully try to do so."

"But that's not what you mean, is it?" Narenzia asked. Somehow, she faintly sensed the presence of another resonating from Daniel. It was a fellow Kelraaza.

Daniel shook his head in confusion, unsure how exactly how to answer Narenzia's question. "I... I don't know, it's just there. When you walked in, it-" Daniel yelled in pain as his head felt like it was being stabbed with a thousand knives. He grabbed at his head, gripping his hair, and fell on his back. Laying flat on the hospital bed, he stopped yelling, but his pace of breathing had substantially increased. He didn't continue his sentence - he didn't have the strength, nor the energy.

[The Greater Gambia]

Hanger S7 - Battle Suit Space Combat Orbital Training Center - Jakala Orbit

"Oh, I don't think they'll be a match. But I do like to hone my skills and keep myself sharp." Messer humbly replied, before nodding his team to get to their battlesuits. The mechanics were already at work, preparing them for launch and the crowd began to dissipate out of the hanger and back to the viewing gallery. Messer and his team were gathered in a small circle around a holo-projector showing the training area.

"You think we can beat them?" Messer asked his team as he was examining the battlefield.

"Judging from the strike-suits capabilities in the recent engagement, I estimate that they are at-least 5 times faster than our frame in their fighter-mode," Under Lieutenant Herta Lenz spoke first, playing around with a data-slate showing a small holo-representation of the four strike-suits flying around the battlefield. "It would be suicide if we leave the protection of the debris field."

"We also have to consider the fact that they have trained longer in this area than us", Warrant Officer Gunter Hyun Yi spoke up. Gunter was the latest addition to the Witch Doctor who was added to the rooster a few months ago after their oldest member retired from the military. He was the youngest among the Witch Doctors, being 25 years old with only 3 years of military experience. Of course he was honored to be part of the elite Witch Doctors, but still had much to learn. Gunter was 5' 7'' in height, had raven black hair and a medium build. He descended from the few thousand Asian colonists centuries ago and he still had the look of his ancestors. But despite his age, he had the good feel of the battlefield.

"Not bad, Bunter", Warrant Officer Gustaf Sitz joked and hit him on the back. Gustaf was the team's designated marksman. Even though all of them specialized in close-quarters combat, Messer being the best, Gustaf was given a longer barreled assault rifle. His ammunition load-out was also different, allowing him to fire specialized grenades from the rifle itself. "However I must point out that they use energy weapons while we use thermite rounds. But those might change considering how this is training."

"Second Lieutenant Messer, how do we plan to limit the mobility of the strike-suits?" Staff-Warrant Officer Haka Arach asked in his deep voice. Haka was the second xeno to join the Witch Doctors, the first was F'eresha who was a Schlange. F'eresha was an interesting pilot considering that she had a tail rather than two legs. But despite this she was able to maneuver the battlesuit quite well than what is expected. But she retired from the military after fifteen years of service, the last three years being apart of Witch Doctor Team. Haka replaced F'eresha just five years ago. He was the typical Kreigschen, very proud, very tall and very much into titles and respect. Despite the many times Messer insisted on calling him Erik or Scalpel, Haka insists on calling him by his title.

"Perhaps we should have Herta and Gunter carry the trapping equipment with them. The tractor beam traps to be exact, now that would be something." Messer responded to Haka. "Also, you don't have to address me like that."

"I must, Second Lieutenant Messer. If I do not, that would be dishonoring your name and prestige." Haka replied forcibly. "Should I have the same equipment?"

"That would be fine, Wrench is everything ready?" Messser yelled to the head mechanic.

"Everything a-okay on our end. Your battlesuits are on the catapult but we can add any other equipment if you want", the head mechanic replied as the various mechanics were preping the catapult for launch.

Messer tossed the data-slate to the head mechanic who looked it over. "Get that equipment on the battlesuits as well." After fifteen minutes of preparation a signal was sent to the four horsemen hanger that they were ready to launch on their end.

Hanger S9
Battle Suit Space Combat Orbital Training Center
Jakala Orbit




"Horseman 01, Maintenance crews are reporting green across the board. You are go for launch." Marie checked a few settings from inside the cockpit.

"Copy that Control. Horseman 01, Squadron Leader Marie Chevalier to all fireteam elements. What is your status."

"Horseman 02, 1st Lieutenant Luxor reporting green for engagement."

"Horseman 03, Command Chief Master Sergeant Mitsuru Okamisana reporting green and standing by."

"Horseman 04, Master Sergeant Paresh Naravupati reporting green and ready for launch."

"Alright, standard Vulture Maneuver. They'll most likely try to keep to the Debris field for cover. Paresh, you've got the EMP charges, right?"

"Of course." The Indian Type-G said plainly.

"Good, force them into the center of the debris field. Hopefully, some of them will still be there by that time. Let's show these Ostians how real pilots work." The thrusters of the Strike Suit lit up, forcing the suit ahead. Marie was pushed back by the force, but felt nothing of it, thanks to her pilots suit and her years of experience and training. The Strike suits flew out of the hangar and into the black void of space. They immediately flew above the debris field and began to circle it like a group of vultures. Marie spoke over the comms.

"Alright, Horsemen, keep an eye out in case one of them peaks their head out."

Todval System
Jakala Orbit
Tava Military Orbital Medical Station

The doctor quickly tried to administer pain killers, but was stopped by Narenzia. The Kelraaza simply raised her hand towards Daniel. Daniel began to feel a wave of relief roll over him. The throbbing in his head soon subsided. Narenzia used her psionic abilities to somewhat stabilize Daniel's maelstrom of brain activity. As she did this, she detected something unusual. It was as if Daniel had two minds as one.

"Impossible....." Yamin looked over towards the Kelraaza Matriarch.

"What, is there something wrong?"

"It seems Jenik's done the impossible. He now dwells within this Human." The room was shocked by this news, especially the Doctor.

"That's not possible. There have been entire collections of medical and scientific reports detailing how it is impossible for two consciousness's to inhabit the same individual. Either one takes dominance or the subject dies!"

[The NAR]

---

Todval System // Jakala Orbit
Tava Military Orbital Medical Station

---

"You're telling me that Jenik's consciousness is still active in my mind?" Daniel clarified as the pain subsided, though he could feel the being pulling him back. It made sense as to how Daniel obtained Psionics, but never before has something like this happened - never before have two separate consciousnesses been merged together like this, and it made Daniel curious as to why it worked with him other than someone else. "That doesn't sound possible. I... I should be dead, if that is the case. What's stopping him from just killing me right here?"

[The Greater Gambia]

---

Todval System // Jakala Orbit
Tava Military Orbital Medical Station

---

"You're telling me that Jenik's consciousness is still active in my mind?" Daniel clarified as the pain subsided, though he could feel the being pulling him back. It made sense as to how Daniel obtained Psionics, but never before has something like this happened - never before have two separate consciousnesses been merged together like this, and it made Daniel curious as to why it worked with him other than someone else. "That doesn't sound possible. I... I should be dead, if that is the case. What's stopping him from just killing me right here?"

Narenzia looked down as she searched for an answer. Unfortunately, she found none.
"This is unknown territory, even for the Kelraaza. Back in the days of the Empire, it was still unheard of outside of legends and the religions of the servant species. Why Jenik has kept you alive is unknown, perhaps if you die, the last of him does too." Suddenly, a Tagali FIS operative came in, saluting as he did.

"Lord of Intelligence, Grand Admiral Kalad wishes to speak with Captain Daniel." Yamin turned in surprise.

"I've already told him, Daniel is still recovering from the last operation."

"I said that, the Grand Admiral just replied with the Azure Fleet Headquarters is wheelchair accessible." Yamin sighed.

"My apologies, Captain Daniel. We will have to conclude this conversation later. If there is another branch that rivals the stubbornness of the FIS, it's the navy. I will make sure the Pennsylvania has the proper accomodations. Commander Yaliza, if you would please escort the Captain here to the Azure Fleet Headquarters."


Todval System
Jakala Orbit
Azure Fleet Headquarters


The Azure Fleet is one of the three great fleets of the Tagali Federation. These fleets are the pride of the Federation Navy, with each one having a specialization, the technologically advanced Azure Fleet, the psionically inclined Emerald Fleet, and the Asymmetrical Warfare specialists of the Maroon fleet. Each of these fleets possessed thousands upon thousands of ships. In the case of war, these fleets would be the first ones leading the charge, with the smaller fleets falling behind through the wreckage of the enemy.

The Azure fleet headquarters lived to its specialty. Holographic banners lined the walls as AI constructs flew around the white hallways. Near entrances to critical and restricted areas of the orbital station were guarded by Valonian Type-49 Battle Droids, easily towering over many of the species that walked the building. Individuals of various species walked the halls and completed various tasks around the station, human, Tagali, Taani, Valonian, Yaliza even thought that she may have saw a Taari among the collection of aliens, but could never be too sure, not that it was any of her business.

Yaliza and Daniel waited for the Grand Admiral to greet them, standing next to a large window, overseeing two large objects attach themselves to a Federation Sargassi-Class Capital ship, the largest class of ship in the Federation navy clocking in at 5km long. Along the hull of the ships were the symbol of the Azure Fleet.

"Impressive aren't they?" A voice rang out. Daniel and Yaliza turned to see a Tagali man, his skin a dark purple. The man seemed to be in his early 30's, yet with the Tagali's natural aging process combined with modern "youth keeping" tactics, he could be anywhere between his 40's to his 70's.

"These are among the newest creations of the Federation. They are Catars, named after the Mountain fortresses of Tagali antiquity. Like the Ostian Bastions they're based off of, they're launched from Capital ships over a planet, crash down to the surface, acting as a warhead, destroying anything within a one mile radius, and then blossoms out and serves as a fortress on a hostile world. They're reinforced with a new type of metal we've learned about from researching old Kelraaza records." The man chuckled.

"But, with the current state of the Galaxy, I feel that these will become known soon enough." Yaliza smiled, stepping forward a bit to shake the man's hand.

"Greetings Grand Admiral Kalad, it has been too long."

"Yes, it has. How is your Wife doing?"

"Kalira's doing fine. Last I checked in on her, she's finally gotten used to Santara."

"She's a lot stronger than a lot of non native Tagali. Very few that aren't born there can stand that ice cold planet." The Grand Admiral turned to Daniel.

"I apologize, I am Grand Admiral Kalad Re-Galadi. I presume you are the Task Force Captain that the Officer's have been speaking about? I apologize for calling you here despite your recovery from your last mission. I heard the Task Force encountered a Leviathan, I can tell you the Azure Fleet has met our fair share of those beasts. Takes nothing short of a Dark Matter Bomb to even scratch the paint off of it."

[The Moscow Metro Red Line]

Combat Simulation Area -Battle Suit Space Combat Orbital Training Center -Jakala Orbit

"This is Witch Doctor 01, deploying in earnest," Messer spoke jovially aloud over the intercom.

"This is Witch Doctor 02, launching now," Lenz reported.

"This is Witch Doctor 03, launching," Haka pridefully responded.

"This is Witch Doctor 04, let's get this over with," Stiz jokingly responded.

"This is Witch Doctor 05, ready for battle," Yi cheerfully yelled.

First there was one light, followed by two others and then two others. The EI-16s flew in a arrowhead formation into the debris field at high speed. Each pilot skillfully and nimbly dodged the incoming debris. "This is Witch Doctor 01 to all units, we are going to begin phase one of our plan. Witch Doctors 03 and 05, break right and begin deploying the sensor network, holograms and tractor beam traps. Witch Doctor 01 and 02 will break left and begin deploying the same equipment as Witch Doctors 03 and 05. Witch Doctor 04, you will take a sniping position at the Todval Capital Ship that is split in three with the one broken ring at the aft near the center, can you see it, over?"

"This is Witch Doctor 04 to Witch Doctor 01, I see it over, I'll try to get a good position, over." Sitz replied, as his battlesuit took out a longer barrel from its left hilt at the forearm and attached it to the assault rifle.

"This is Witch Doctor 01 to all units, commence operation, use the debris as cover and try not to get spotted,out" Messer ordered.

"Affirmative!" The whole team responded as they followed their orders. As the battlesuits darted past the debris, they as dropped a few small devices which either latched onto a nearby piece of debris or continued hovering in its place. By now, two minutes had passed in the match when all the teams reported in.

"This is Witch Doctor 01 to Witch Doctor 03 and 04, deployment is complete on my side. No sign of those strike suits, over." Messer spoke over the intercom. Their communications as well as their signals to their devices were heavily encrypted to avoid any hacking. Messer's battlesuit was hiding inside the broken hanger of a Todval Capital ship that was snapped in two where the two rings connected. Lenz was hiding outside of the same capital ship, beneath one of the rings.

"This is Witch Doctor 03 to Witch Doctor 01 and 03, deployment is also completed. I believe that will make our hunting ground complete. No sign of the strike suits as well, over." Haka and Yi were hiding together underneath a large piece of debris. Haka's battlesuit turned its head towards Yi's. "This is Witch Doctor 03 to Witch Doctor 05, space out from me. We don't want to be clustered together, we'll be easier to see, out."

"This is Witch Doctor 04 to Witch Doctor 01, I've made a little nest in the upper decks. I can see them alright, they're circling the area above us like Vultures, over."

"This is Witch Doctor 01 to Witch Doctor 04, do you think you have been spotted, over?"

"This is Witch Doctor 04 to Witch Doctor 01, I don't think so over, they seem to have been flying in the same formation for about a whole minute now, over."

"This is Witch Doctor 01 to Witch Doctor 04, keep your eye open, we cannot assume that those are actually the strike-suits. For all we know they can be holos, over."

"This is Witch Doctor 01 to all units, begin our little display, out." Just then five shapes materialized into existence, these holograms were darting and moving behind cover just like the rest of Witch Doctor prior, but sometimes they made a small mistake enabling them to be somewhat visible to the circling strike-suits. The rest of the team waited to see if the strike-suits would take the bait. Messer wasn't sure if they would fall for this, but it was worth a try and it will definitely cause them to be interested in their relative position. The 3 kilometer hunting ground was completed all it waited for was the birds overhead.

"This is Witch Doctor 02 to Witch Doctor 01, what if they can detect the numerous devices we laid out, over?"

"This is Witch Doctor 01 to Witch Doctor 02, that would probably draw them in. But it is unlikely that they could hack into our sensor network, communications, or tractor beam traps with this much debris. But if they did, we should be able to detect it, over." There five battlesuits in Witch Doctor team, four of them had the standard modified EI-16 variant while Messer had the modified EI-16 command variant. Of course the equipment on the back varied, but all of them wielded assault rifles and large combat shields in their hands and had the same alternating military gray and military green color scheme.

[The NAR]

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Jakala Orbit // Todval System
Azure Fleet Headquarters

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"It was... tough" Daniel assured, trying to come up with the right word to describe the mission. "The Levaithan didn't bother us, though, it was too busy tearing up the Atlas ships. Better them than us". Daniel crossed his arms and shifted his weight, examining the Tagali Admiral. "What's the situation back home? I've been hearing rumors that the Blues have reached Earth, is that true?" Daniel looked concerned for his homeworld.

[The Greater Gambia]

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Jakala Orbit // Todval System
Azure Fleet Headquarters

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"It was... tough" Daniel assured, trying to come up with the right word to describe the mission. "The Leviathan didn't bother us, though, it was too busy tearing up the Atlas ships. Better them than us". Daniel crossed his arms and shifted his weight, examining the Tagali Admiral. "What's the situation back home? I've been hearing rumors that the Blues have reached Earth, is that true?" Daniel looked concerned for his homeworld.

The Grand Admiral turned around, beckoning the two to follow.

"The FIS has been monitoring the situation, slowly dripping information down to the other branches. While I can't give you the current situation, I can say that yes, Sol has come under attack." Kalad lead them to a large door, guarded by two droids. As they scanned him, they saluted, moving out of the way and letting them pass. The section of the station that Kalad had led them to was the R&D section of the fleet and to an extant, the rest of the Federation. Every so often, they would pass a large window allowing sight into a room, where various scientists and engineers would be working on some new type of armor or weaponry.

"Of course, the outcome of this battle is negligible. Th Covenant has invested too many troops and ships to the Alliance front. The rest of the Covenant is now more vulnerable since they're too focused on the Alliance. Don't even get me started on their tactics. Their only real hallmark is their great numbers,any half brained cadet could think of that for their introduction paper."

[The NAR]

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Jakala Orbit // Todval System
Azure Fleet Headquarters

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"It was... tough" Daniel assured, trying to come up with the right word to describe the mission. "The Leviathan didn't bother us, though, it was too busy tearing up the Atlas ships. Better them than us". Daniel crossed his arms and shifted his weight, examining the Tagali Admiral. "What's the situation back home? I've been hearing rumors that the Blues have reached Earth, is that true?" Daniel looked concerned for his homeworld.

The Grand Admiral turned around, beckoning the two to follow.

"The FIS has been monitoring the situation, slowly dripping information down to the other branches. While I can't give you the current situation, I can say that yes, Sol has come under attack." Kalad lead them to a large door, guarded by two droids. As they scanned him, they saluted, moving out of the way and letting them pass. The section of the station that Kalad had led them to was the R&D section of the fleet and to an extant, the rest of the Federation. Every so often, they would pass a large window allowing sight into a room, where various scientists and engineers would be working on some new type of armor or weaponry.

"Of course, the outcome of this battle is negligible. Th Covenant has invested too many troops and ships to the Alliance front. The rest of the Covenant is now more vulnerable since they're too focused on the Alliance. Don't even get me started on their tactics. Their only real hallmark is their great numbers,any half brained cadet could think of that for their introduction paper."

"If Earth is indeed under attack, Admiral, I'd like the Pennsylvania to assist in it's defense". Daniel was confident in what he said, making it clear that he didn't plan on taking no for an answer. "My wife and daughter are back on Earth - my whole.family is there"