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

[The Greater Gambia]

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"

"Unfortunately, that call doesn't belong to me. The FIS is in charge of all matters relating to the Task Force. I can just simply state my opinion on the subject and they choose whether or not to listen. However, I can say the subject of your family has come up. I can assure you that they will be taken care of." Yaliza spoke up.

"Operatives have been deployed to evacuate them off the planet. It will take time, but I assure, they'll be safe."

[Ithalian Empire]

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.

Chancellor's Mansion

Things were just about ready for the diplomatic dinner to begin. Food was being set on a long table in the west wing of the large house. Alcohol was being brought up from the cellars three levels below them, musicians were arriving and setting up. Traditional Antivarian music was played on stringed instruments, many of which looked like guitars and mandolins. There was a smattering of harp like instruments and drums.

The only thing that was needed know were the honoured guests, the Ark Mecks and Aats who had been on the planet studying at the Library. There were also the new arrivals in the dreadnoughts, the Nev Warks were also invited to join in the festivities on the ground. The Nev Warks were already being informed of the invitation, any of these officers could come down and join the festivities if they chose to do so.

[Naretion]

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.

Chancellor's Mansion

Things were just about ready for the diplomatic dinner to begin. Food was being set on a long table in the west wing of the large house. Alcohol was being brought up from the cellars three levels below them, musicians were arriving and setting up. Traditional Antivarian music was played on stringed instruments, many of which looked like guitars and mandolins. There was a smattering of harp like instruments and drums.

The only thing that was needed know were the honoured guests, the Ark Mecks and Aats who had been on the planet studying at the Library. There were also the new arrivals in the dreadnoughts, the Nev Warks were also invited to join in the festivities on the ground. The Nev Warks were already being informed of the invitation, any of these officers could come down and join the festivities if they chose to do so.

The highest of the Aak and Art Mek officers chose to attend the dinner (Na'sen included). Three Chemako officers and one Nev Wark also arrived to attend. The Nev Warks had no hierarchal structure to decide who would go, so they simply send someone to keep an eye on the Chemakos. Diplomacy and formal events were not a forte of the Nev Warks, but they attended nonetheless on the recommendation of the Art Meks.

The Art Meks were the diplomatic talkers of the group. They complimented the music and the food and did most of the talking. The Nev Wark remained mostly silent throughout the dinner, and the Chemakos did their best to hold in their mass amount of energy that is common among their race. Staying in one place for too long was not an easy task for them so they frequently took breaks from the eating to go outside and wander about for a few minutes.

[Beiarusia]

Faul Republic
Faux System

It was a tense situation to be sure. A hostile fleet was inbound and, even more troubling, the uninvited humans were likely to be in harm’s way. Should things go bad and the humans get caught in the crossfire, well, there was no telling how their government would react, and given that the Faulians were now involving themselves with one conflict they were unwilling to start another. They were playing a dangerous game. Should they fail and the Night’s Cradle be captured or destroyed the Zhong Vey would no doubt send an armada to lay waste to their homeworld. Even if they succeeded that was still very much a possibility. Be that as it may there was little else that Minister Tayo could do.

News of the plan was broadcasted to the HDF fleet. The Nomu and its flotilla would remain in orbit over Eto, acting as a defensive force and as a decoy to potentially fool the Zhong Vey into thinking this was where the main force lie. The remaining ships would take cover in the neighboring gas giant’s shadow, using its dense magnetosphere to mask their signature. It was a risky maneuver that placed the ships deep into the gravity well. Should the ambush fail there would be little hope of a speedy retreat.

Two other ships had been dispatched as runners to bring news to Solace and Enki, nearby star systems that had been claimed by the Faulians. Enki was a day’s travel out; Solace three days. A third ship would leave Solace for Sen, another star system that held a notable Faulian presence despite lacking a permanent colony – its two worlds were ill suited for supporting life but were rich in resources. Though not as concentrated the HDF did maintain a force in each of these systems. They would be placed on high alert, and though instructed to hold there was a possibility that some ships would come to aid in the defense of Faux against orders.

In-system the human warship had been escorted to the Second Chance. Aside from defending the homeworld the Nomu would be keeping an eye on the two foreign ships, instructed to keep them in orbit until the Second Chance could go FTL, at which point the humans were to be sent out-system. It the Zhong Vey arrived before then the human ships were to be kept clear of the battle.

Preparations made, the Minister and Tataro returned to the surface for an emergency meeting of the Council. There would be a lot of arguing and calls for Tayo’s resignation, a mask for the impending sense of doom that would hang over them all. There was nothing to do now except to await the start of battle.

[Ithalian Empire]

The highest of the Aak and Art Mek officers chose to attend the dinner (Na'sen included). Three Chemako officers and one Nev Wark also arrived to attend. The Nev Warks had no hierarchal structure to decide who would go, so they simply send someone to keep an eye on the Chemakos. Diplomacy and formal events were not a forte of the Nev Warks, but they attended nonetheless on the recommendation of the Art Meks.

The Art Meks were the diplomatic talkers of the group. They complimented the music and the food and did most of the talking. The Nev Wark remained mostly silent throughout the dinner, and the Chemakos did their best to hold in their mass amount of energy that is common among their race. Staying in one place for too long was not an easy task for them so they frequently took breaks from the eating to go outside and wander about for a few minutes.

The difference between the species was striking. The Aaks and Art Meks were the most social, talking with the attending military men and politicians, the few Nev Warks seemed to be uncomfortable with the situation, mostly watching over the rambunctious Chemakos who were always coming in and going out.

It was no wonder why the League was using the Chemakos as the labour in the construction of the embassy, the creatures never seemed to lose any energy at all. They may not have been the brightest but the Antivarians were amused by them nonetheless.

M'kall was standing in a corner, siping a glass of iced liquor. A deep tan liquid that sparkled like a thousand icicles when the light hit it. He was doing his best to not have to talk to any of the assorted aliens, one of his fellow Isolationists was standing next to him.

"Maybe it would be best if you talked to one of them." the man's name was Larksen, he was a bright one, but he didn't feel the same conviction that M'kall did. To bad, M'kall thought, but he will be dealt with once we get the ball rolling.

"If you think I must, even though they are aliens, honor dose dictate I be kind to them as they are guests." Honor could go burn in hell for all M'kall could care, but he had to act naturally if he didn't want anyone to suspect anything was amiss.

M'kall walked out to the were most of the guests were talking, a Art Mek, the one by the name of Na'sen was amongst them. M'kall remembered his racist outburst at the Legislature and figured that it was good excuse to give a formal apology to the tall League representative.

"Greetings, I believe you are Na'sen, am I correct?"

[Naretion]

The difference between the species was striking. The Aaks and Art Meks were the most social, talking with the attending military men and politicians, the few Nev Warks seemed to be uncomfortable with the situation, mostly watching over the rambunctious Chemakos who were always coming in and going out.

It was no wonder why the League was using the Chemakos as the labour in the construction of the embassy, the creatures never seemed to lose any energy at all. They may not have been the brightest but the Antivarians were amused by them nonetheless.

M'kall was standing in a corner, siping a glass of iced liquor. A deep tan liquid that sparkled like a thousand icicles when the light hit it. He was doing his best to not have to talk to any of the assorted aliens, one of his fellow Isolationists was standing next to him.

"Maybe it would be best if you talked to one of them." the man's name was Larksen, he was a bright one, but he didn't feel the same conviction that M'kall did. To bad, M'kall thought, but he will be dealt with once we get the ball rolling.

"If you think I must, even though they are aliens, honor dose dictate I be kind to them as they are guests." Honor could go burn in hell for all M'kall could care, but he had to act naturally if he didn't want anyone to suspect anything was amiss.

M'kall walked out to the were most of the guests were talking, a Art Mek, the one by the name of Na'sen was amongst them. M'kall remembered his racist outburst at the Legislature and figured that it was good excuse to give a formal apology to the tall League representative.

"Greetings, I believe you are Na'sen, am I correct?"

"The very one, here to infiltrate and tear down your traditions." Na'sen gave a slight smirk a he referenced the voting session. "I understand why you might believe that. I have read many logs on first encounters with alien races in The Archives and there is always a person that fills the very role you stood in. I have never encountered the situation in person until I met you, however. If you wouldn't mind answering...why do you believe my League seeks only to harm you through the construction of a diplomatic embassy?" Na'sen was direct and up front with him. He did not care to beat around the bush. M'kall chose to make his opposition known loudly and proudly so Na'sen chose to try to learn about it from him if at all possible.

The Nev Wark's monstrous gaze shifted from the Chemakos to Na'sen as he spoke to M'kall. The Nev Warks were briefed on the incident and this one stared with distrust at M'kall. He kept a firm and unhidden gaze on him to make sure he did not try to harm Na'sen.

[The Greater Gambia]

Sol System
Orbit near Pluto
Federation 2nd Ostian Patrol Fleet "Battle Group Sensha"




Unannounced to all parties, a a detachment from the Federation 2nd Ostian Patrol fleet entered the system, a 100 ships strong. Out of those ships, only 55 were suited for actual combat. The remaining 45 vessels were Neograd-Class Support Vessels, the pack mule of the Federation Navy. While they could be outfitted with weapons for ground support missions, these ones only held the bare minimum to ward off any smaller space craft that got in their way. Aboard the FNS-"Heart of Magana", Admiral Ahmadou Juarez, a Human from the Federation territory, the Halusian Sovereignty, transmitted a message to the two warring factions within the system. While his name would sound familiar to Terrans from Western Africa and throughout the Spanish and Portuguese speaking world, his accent was completely unique, being a mix of Western African dialects and Brazilian porteguese, with influences from Australian English, a tell tale sign that he was Halusian.

"This is Admiral Ahmadou Juarez of the Federation 2nd Patrol Fleet, Battle Group Sensha. By order of the Federation Ministry of Diplomacy, we have been sent to collect all Tagali Federation citizens in correspondence with Ministry Order: 424." Ministry Order 424 was the recall of all Federation Citizens from the Solis Alliance due to the hostilities between the Alliance and the Cho'Dosan Covenant. While there were Federation civilians all throughout the Alliance for various purposes, most of them had congregated in the Sol System, either for diplomatic purposes, tourism, or mostly human "pilgrims" as they were nicknamed in the Federation, journeying outside of the territory of the Federation to visit their recently rediscovered ancestral home world.

"There are two million Federation Civilians registered currently planet side on Earth, therefore, we ask that sites in the following cities be given for evacuation of Federation Citizens and that a cease fire be active until evacuation is complete.

New Lagos, Nigeria
Denver, Colorado
Paris, France
New York City, New York
Hong Kong, China
Neo Tokyo, Japan
Cape Town, South Africa
Detroit, Michigan
San Francisco, California
New Rio De Janiero, Brazil
San Antonio Texas
New Sydney, Australia
Old Mombasa, Kenya
New Delhi, India
Kabul, Afghanistan
Novosibirsk, Russia

Please note that Federation Soldiers and equipment will be deployed to ensure the security of said Evacuation points." As the Admiral finished the message, a heavily encrypted message was sent off to the Alliance Command.

FROM: FIS Operative "Daimond Trakuza"
TO: Alliance High Command
Encryption Code-05T04F03S02A01-E34V98A12C45


We have diverted elements of the 2nd Ostia Patrol Fleet for more than Federation Citizens. We have brought documents for "Federation Citizens" who are currently in the Sol System. They will be expected to reach the listed EVAC points to leave the system and return to their homes in the Halus Soveriegnty, Traxus Conglomerate, and the Neograd Collective in Federation space. Of course, there are bound to be those that sneak aboard in hopes of safety. As such, once back in Federation space and found, they will be "deported" back to less hazadous areas of Alliance space.

The Federation understands the current dangers of the Sol System and Humanities "self-preservation". Therefor, The Federation will not issue Illegal Immigration violations on any citizens of the Solis Alliance and thus will not suffer any penalty on their record. This will be in effect until the end of hostilities". We advise that you accept the Cease Fire demand and take this time to evacuate as many non combatants as you can. Any Military action that does not violate the proposed cease fire is up to you.

The Fist of Authority - 10^th Theta Sector Forward Operations Base
Malaekor System

A single squadron of apparently armed Faang were there to greet them. However, their weapons were at rest and seemed as though they had no ill intentions. One of the Faang stepped forward, kneeling slightly, bowing his head. The Faang let out a slight hiss of some kind, but it sounded like he was trying to be respectful oddly enough. The Faang stood after a moment, speaking.

"I am Dagha Ramil of Clan Dagha, ssssservant of the Tssssveri Empire, loyal to the command of Misssstressss Alia Faelisssss. The Missssstressssss hassss ordered that I take you to one of the debriefing roomssss to wait for the diplomat. Ssssshe also requesssstsssss that your guardssss refrain from ussssing their weaponsssss on board the ssstation if at all posssssible, and if they mussssst keep them.", Ramil said. Apparently, the Faang used their last name first, and their first name last. Or perhaps something along those lines. The Faang's hissing at every 's' was kind of annoying, though.

The Shanji Representative spoke dryly, mildly annoyed by the Faang's manner of speech.

"My guards won't fire unless provoked. The Federation knows to respect their hosts when inside their house. A lesson some species can learn." The Representative looked over the Faang in front of him. If these were the creatures that raided Damascus, the Federation would have no problem "taming" these creatures just as they did the Golta. A species in his opinion posed a much greater threat than these reptilians. Still, he had read over the reports of the raid. They had used some sort of synthetic soldiers that did most of the dirty work. Pacifying a race that seemed as primitive as this one would be easy. If they had an army of synthetics, that would something else entirely.



Messages to the Ostian Protectorate and the Inter Species Commonwealth
Recieved from their Respective Federation Embassies

From: Federation Ambassador Riiva Ka'Ratas,
Tagali Federation Embassy Neu Berlin, Ostia
To:Empress Lenina Marx of Ostia


I apologize for not raising the issue in person, but the immediacy of the subject and the behest of the Ministry of Diplomacy, I must forego the process of setting up an appointment. The Federation has deployed a detachment of the Federation 2nd Ostian Patrol Fleet to aid in the evacuation of Federation Citizens from the Sol System. We have asked that a cease fire be called, but we fear that the Covenant will not respect this. If they fire on our vessels while we are evacuating, the Federation will have no choice but to declare war. I am writing you today to ask for your support if this is the case.

As Ambassador to Ostia and the Galactic Concordat, as well as a Resident of the Protectorate, I know of the plights facing Ostia today, and so does the Federation. We recognize that the High Breed War taxed Ostia more than any other nation. We also recognize that Ostia is a valued ally of the Federation. Its people resilient and defiant in the face of adversity. They would not fight this battle alone, as the 3rd Ostia Patrol Fleet and the Maug-Lai Armada will be deployed in force to carry the brunt of the Covenant Force as they push forward into the Covenant Aicury sector, securing the Covenant held containment sites. We ask that Ostia be by our side as we protect the galaxy from the Covenant's expansionism.

WIP

I apologize for not raising the issue in person, but the immediacy of the subject and the behest of the Ministry of Diplomacy, I must forego the process of setting up an appointment. The Federation has deployed a detachment of the Federation 2nd Ostian Patrol Fleet to aid in the evacuation of Federation Citizens from the Sol System. We have asked that a cease fire be called, but we fear that the Covenant will not respect this. If they fire on our vessels while we are evacuating, the Federation will have no choice but to declare war. I am writing you today to ask for your support if this is the case.

The ISC and the Federation met each other in a time of war. Taari, Spindlean Humans, and the many races of the Federation along with our Ostian allies held the line against the High Breed horde. Our Maug-Lai Warriors fought along side your Taari soldiers. Our Tagali Todvals fought a

[The V O I D]

The Fist of Authority - 10^th Theta Sector Forward Operations Base
Malaekor System

A single squadron of apparently armed Faang were there to greet them. However, their weapons were at rest and seemed as though they had no ill intentions. One of the Faang stepped forward, kneeling slightly, bowing his head. The Faang let out a slight hiss of some kind, but it sounded like he was trying to be respectful oddly enough. The Faang stood after a moment, speaking.

"I am Dagha Ramil of Clan Dagha, ssssservant of the Tssssveri Empire, loyal to the command of Misssstressss Alia Faelisssss. The Missssstressssss hassss ordered that I take you to one of the debriefing roomssss to wait for the diplomat. Ssssshe also requesssstsssss that your guardssss refrain from ussssing their weaponsssss on board the ssstation if at all posssssible, and if they mussssst keep them.", Ramil said. Apparently, the Faang used their last name first, and their first name last. Or perhaps something along those lines. The Faang's hissing at every 's' was kind of annoying, though.

The Shanji Representative spoke dryly, mildly annoyed by the Faang's manner of speech.

"My guards won't fire unless provoked. The Federation knows to respect their hosts when inside their house. A lesson some species can learn." The Representative looked over the Faang in front of him. If these were the creatures that raided Damascus, the Federation would have no problem "taming" these creatures just as they did the Golta. A species in his opinion posed a much greater threat than these reptilians. Still, he had read over the reports of the raid. They had used some sort of synthetic soldiers that did most of the dirty work. Pacifying a race that seemed as primitive as this one would be easy. If they had an army of synthetics, that would something else entirely.

The Fist of Authority - 10^th Theta Sector Forward Operations Base
Malaekor System

Ramil simply nodded. He then waved them over to follow him and his squadron. They began to lead them through the Fist of Authority's halls, eventually coming to a room; the debriefing room was somewhat large, having enough room for all of the Shanji's men, including the Shanji himself, to sit. Very accommodating and welcoming. Ramil remained outside of the debriefing room as the Shanji and co entered it. He spoke after a moment of silence.

"Misssssstresssssssss Alia will be here sssssssssshortly. Asssssss will the diplomat.", he said simply. The door closed as Ramil turned and left. There was likely silence for a few minutes. Eventually, the Mistress entered the room. Alia Faelis, in person, was quite a beautiful female specimen. She was probably around her early twenties in appearance, by human standards. Her extremely deep purple skin, along with her practically glowing violet eyes, were somewhat alluring. She wore very modest clothing, although it was very form-fitting. She moved to sit across from the Shanji and his men. She smiled slightly as she sat.

"Crosin Diplomat designation 'Vandor' will be here shortly. As you know, I am Mistress Alia Faelis.", she spoke calmly, in an ordered manner. Her voice commanded respect, and it gave no room for anything otherwise. Alia began to look over each of them with a straight face, her glowing violet eyes seemingly piercing through them as if to see their souls.

[The Moscow Metro Red Line]

Encrypted Transmission on a Diplomatic Channel

Royal Imperial Office of the Autocratic Ostian Protectorate

Empress Lenina Marx the Third
Empress of the Autocratic Ostian Protectorate
Ostia System, Nue Berlin, Royal Palace
Cc: Federation Ambassador Riiva Ka'Ratas
RE: Ostia's involvement in the Alliance/Covenant War

Dear Ambassador Ka'Ratas,

I am well aware of the situation developing in the Alliance as well as the recent expansion of the Covenant. As you know, the people and the government of Ostia is immensely concerned with the development of the war considering that numerous Covenant ships have passed by Ostian territory since war has been declared.

You may also be aware of the volunteers that we have contributed to the Alliance, not only the few we sent to the intergalatic volunteer force but also by the Lend-Lease Act passed very recently about a week ago. The Protectorate is not going to stand idly as our ancestral homeland is going to be plundered by the Covenant. While many of us are aware that a war with the Covenant by ourselves in suicidal, the Protectorate is still going to contribute equipment and personnel.

While I would like to focus on rebuilding my country after the Highbreed War a decade ago, as you know from the recent actions of the government that Ostia cannot stay neutral any longer. And while I would like to say we will support you in this case, the government is not the same one from a decade ago. In about seven hours from this transmission sent, there will be a emergency meeting of the Ostian Council regarding your message. This message has the code necessary to view the proceedings but you may also interject and make a plea if you want. Just follow the Chamber's procedures.

---

Main Chamber - Palace of the Protectorate - Nue Berlin - Ostia - Ostia System

It was a quiet and dark 2am morning in Ostia. But despite this stillness and serenity of the night, there was a rush of vehicles and people to the Palace of the Protectorate. Chancellor Wieck has called an emergency closed session meeting of the Ostian Council. Attendance was mandatory. The elected representatives of the Ostian Council came from all over the Protectorate. Some of the councilors resided in Nue Berlin so they were unfazed by the meeting and had ample rest. Some of the councilors just got off their transit from their respective planets and had spent the whole travel time talking to their party leaders and other councilors. Some of the councilors were awaken from their sleep and dragged by their secretaries up the marble steps of the Palace of the Protectorate. The councilors began to form into their own circles with members of their own party and drink tea to keep them awake for the emergency meeting. Once all the councilors arrived, the doors into the main chamber opened and all of them walked into the titanic main chamber of the Palace of the Protectorate. The main chamber is the meeting place of the Council of the People, or the Ostian Council, and it had tens of thousands of seats for tens of thousands of councilors. The room itself was very antique, the interior was inspired or rather copied from the historical record of East Germany's Palace of the Republic. In fact much of the design was identical to the same chamber that the Volkshammer, it even had the red flags and a depiction of Marx, Engels and Lenin at the center. A throwback to their ancestors, many outsiders have guessed rather than an actual belief. It was a very long procession as all the 17,500 councilors sat down in their seats and began talking to one another why the session was being called.

As the last of the councilors sat down, Chancellor Wieck walked up to the center podium. Before he spoke, he took a sip from a glass of water on the podium itself. "Please rise for the National Anthem." A chorus of feet sounded and a distinct sound of a trumpet was heard throughout the chamber. Music began to play.

Auferstanden aus Ruinen
Und der Zukunft zugewandt,
Lass uns dir zum Guten dienen,
Deutschland, einig Vaterland.
Alte Not gilt es zu zwingen,
Und wir zwingen sie vereint,
Denn es muss uns doch gelingen,
Daß die Sonne schön wie nie
Über Deutschland scheint,
Über Deutschland scheint.

The councilors sat back down before Wieck began speaking. Behind Wieck was the current government of the Ostian Council as well as the leaders and senior members of the majority coalition. "Good evening, councilors. I have called their emergency closed session in light of an recent message from the government of the Tagali Federation", Wieck started with firm conviction. "The Tagali Federation is concerned over the fact that they be dragged into the Alliance/Covenant War as well in light of the evacuation of its own citizens from Alliance territory. As such, they have asked for our support in the time when war is declared."

"They want more of our blood to fertile their fields?" Immediately spoke out a voice from the National People's Party section of the chamber. "The Federation doesn't need our help to defeat the Covenant." Wieck recognized the voice as Percival Pfaff, the leader of the NPP. "We may be good friends but we also have our own problems to deal with."

"Is the NPP afraid of blood? War is the Ostian way of life. This is precisely why we, the Royalists, were against the budget cuts to the military since the beginning of the reconstruction." A different voice from the Royalist section of the chamber spoke condescendingly, "Perhaps this is the reason why our strength and position has weakened under the current administration. We should be rebuilding our military might rather than let it deteriorate."

"Do you think the people will be willing to trade their food for bullets?" An opposing voice spoke out towards the Royalists from behind Wieck. He recognized it as the energetic voice of councilor Luiza Keil, leader of the Workers and Farmers Alliance. "That is why the Empress had cut the budget of our large military. We have already doubled the number of surviving ships to the navy since the end of the War. Additionally we do not have the population to boast the numbers like the other superpowers. If you truly are concerned about defense, perhaps you should consider who you are defending. Our population needs to grow and thrive before you can even start talking about rebooting the military."

"Councilor Keil is correct in her statement, we do not have the military strength or numbers as before or even matching the current superpowers", Wieck added.

"That brings about another issue!" An Royalist councilor immediately spoke out. "We are not even neutral in this war, the Covenant is well aware of our position in the war. We are supporting the Alliance due to historical and cultural ties. They probably have heard about our lend-lease act. So why are we bothering having this meeting if we are already at war with the Covenant?"

"A war with the Covenant would be disastrous for the Protectorate. Their overwhelming numbers would utterly decimate our defenses and will probably reach the homeworld within a week." An NPP councilor warned to the rest of the chamber.

"Yes and how can we forget that in the Highbreed War this small nation held back the Highbreed longer and with less territory loss in comparison to the Covenant. Their military is just as frighting as a paper tiger". An NF councilor joked to the chamber and this caused numerous chuckles among the councilors.

"But that was the old military, their new military has proven more than a match for the Alliance military causing their current predicament and siege of the Sol System," another NPP councilor corrected her colleague. "While I am proud of our military and how they held the line despite the odds, an war of attrition against the Covenant will be disastrous for the Protectorate considering all the gains from the reconstruction so far, that the current government likes to wave in front of us."

"The Tagali Federation will honor their agreement and will probably help defend the Protectorate should we join them officially in a war with the Covenant. They have been reliable allies and trading partners for a decade now." The same NF councilor retorted.

"Those Tagaliphiles know nothing for certain!" Percival Pfaff spoke aloud.

"That is hilarious coming from a party that advocates for policies like the ISC." The same NF councilor countered. "At least they won't try to flood us with cheap goods."

"Let us all remember that it is because of the taxes and tariffs that protect local Ostian buisnesses that our economy is able to grow." Luiza Keil spoke with determination. "I will not hide the fact that I believe that our current friends, the Federation and the ISC have regarded us as reliable allies. But we are detracting from the reason why this meeting is called for, whether or not we will support the Tagali Federation in a war with the Covenant."

Chancellor Wieck spoke immediately after Keil's statement. "Ostia has allowed Federation and ISC military forces to operate within the Protectorate since the end of the Highbreed War and the downsizing of the military. Let us not forget that it is because of them that the Protectorate is still as safe as before the war. We owe it to them to support them in times of conflict as well. Let us also not forget how many Ostians are willing to support the Alliance after hearing of the numerous atrocities the Covenant has committed against the Alliance. It is not secret that many of us don't trust the Alliance due to their supposed ties to Atlas, but does this mean that we condemn innocent civilians to die? They may not be our own citizens but they are from the ancestral homeland as well. Let us not forget our popularity in the ancestral fatherland since the rediscovery with the ancestral homeland. Even now our lend-leased troops and volunteers are willing to fight and die for our ancestral brethren. Let us not dishonor their sacrifice by pulling them out now."

The chamber was "quiet" for a few minutes as the councilors talked among themselves to their own party, reaffirming their positions and opinions regarding the current issue onto the floor. Just then the Chancellor walked to the side of the podium as a hologram materialized behind the podium.

((OOC: Hey Gambia, if Riiva Ka'Ratas would like to speak to the council, this would be your cue to do so. If not, it's going to be the Empress.))

[Ithalian Empire]

"The very one, here to infiltrate and tear down your traditions." Na'sen gave a slight smirk a he referenced the voting session. "I understand why you might believe that. I have read many logs on first encounters with alien races in The Archives and there is always a person that fills the very role you stood in. I have never encountered the situation in person until I met you, however. If you wouldn't mind answering...why do you believe my League seeks only to harm you through the construction of a diplomatic embassy?" Na'sen was direct and up front with him. He did not care to beat around the bush. M'kall chose to make his opposition known loudly and proudly so Na'sen chose to try to learn about it from him if at all possible.

The Nev Wark's monstrous gaze shifted from the Chemakos to Na'sen as he spoke to M'kall. The Nev Warks were briefed on the incident and this one stared with distrust at M'kall. He kept a firm and unhidden gaze on him to make sure he did not try to harm Na'sen.

If this Na'sen wasn't an alien M'kall would have respected his outwardness. It was a very Antivarian trait. But damn it, how could he answer such a question without giving this obviously intelligent individual a hint of what was hiding behind his facade of humility?

"Are people have never had any interaction with anything other than ourselves. As I understand it, you have been reading much of our history at the Library? Than you would know that even when we dealt with ourselves it was always with distrust. That is the sole reason behind my peoples war like natuer, we find it hard to trust things unlike ourselves, even when it's just a neighboring nation with only very subtle differences from ourselves in culture and politics.

So you can imagine what it is like for me. My world is an agricultural world. The people I represent fear that if we start trading with another alien race they will not be able to compete to provide foodstuffs for the Union. I was wrong to let my emotions show them selves like that, and for that I give my most humble apologies, but at the same time I will not be entirely comfortable with the presence of your people in my home. There may come a time when this changes, only time can tell."

[Naretion]

"The very one, here to infiltrate and tear down your traditions." Na'sen gave a slight smirk a he referenced the voting session. "I understand why you might believe that. I have read many logs on first encounters with alien races in The Archives and there is always a person that fills the very role you stood in. I have never encountered the situation in person until I met you, however. If you wouldn't mind answering...why do you believe my League seeks only to harm you through the construction of a diplomatic embassy?" Na'sen was direct and up front with him. He did not care to beat around the bush. M'kall chose to make his opposition known loudly and proudly so Na'sen chose to try to learn about it from him if at all possible.

The Nev Wark's monstrous gaze shifted from the Chemakos to Na'sen as he spoke to M'kall. The Nev Warks were briefed on the incident and this one stared with distrust at M'kall. He kept a firm and unhidden gaze on him to make sure he did not try to harm Na'sen.

If this Na'sen wasn't an alien M'kall would have respected his outwardness. It was a very Antivarian trait. But damn it, how could he answer such a question without giving this obviously intelligent individual a hint of what was hiding behind his facade of humility?

"Are people have never had any interaction with anything other than ourselves. As I understand it, you have been reading much of our history at the Library? Than you would know that even when we dealt with ourselves it was always with distrust. That is the sole reason behind my peoples war like natuer, we find it hard to trust things unlike ourselves, even when it's just a neighboring nation with only very subtle differences from ourselves in culture and politics.

So you can imagine what it is like for me. My world is an agricultural world. The people I represent fear that if we start trading with another alien race they will not be able to compete to provide foodstuffs for the Union. I was wrong to let my emotions show them selves like that, and for that I give my most humble apologies, but at the same time I will not be entirely comfortable with the presence of your people in my home. There may come a time when this changes, only time can tell."

Na'sen nodded as he listened. "I appreciate the apology. But I know of distrust. I have read thousands upon thousands of cases of distrust in The Archives and experienced it among my people before. I also know what hatred is, and I know how to tell the difference between the two. Your own library has provided many examples of how Antivarians display these emotions. You are a talented speaker, but you are relying on my ignorance. I am not an ignorant being. You have disrespected me in public and you disrespect me with these lies, but I accept your apology." Na'sen stared bluntly at M'kall.

By this point the observing Nev Wark stood from his seat and began to lumber over to the two. His menacingly large green figure loomed over the two and his deep emotionless voice resounded, "Na'sen."

"After the embassy's construction I invite you to visit. You may find something you enjoy in our Archives." Na'sen nodded goodbye as he walked away.

The Nev Wark remained momentarily and gazed with a still and expressionless face at M'kall before turning and following Na'sen back to the seating area for the Art Mek and Aak officers. He remained with Na'sen this time however, leaving the Chemakos to their own devices while he kept his eye on M'kall. Nev Warks did not trust anybody and each clone was conditioned to recognize even the slightest threat. M'kall was conceived as a threat and so the Nev Wark guarded the diplomat by keeping his body in between Na'sen and M'kall at all times throughout the rest of the night.

[Laurvier]

Rarkara Prime
Citadel of Light - Headquarters of the Holy Curia

If it were not for advances in medical technology, the men seated around the table would be dead. Eleven High Cardinals awaited the Archon. They were old men, having come into their positions at a late age and staying until the end of their lives. Most had some kind of cybernetic implant or external device that allowed them to live. High Cardinal Canditlaa of Production and Logistics required a respirator constantly on his face that allowed his lungs to breathe. The unsettling mechanical sounds it made annoyed the others but at least Canditlaa could still stand on his own. Dirnix, High Cardinal of Finance required the use of hydraulic pistons attached to his legs to walk and servants to help him stand for he was incredibly corpulent. Seated at the table, he required his own custom built chair that could hold his massive weight. Cybernetic implants kept Canditlaa's heart, that would have failed long ago, pumping and a strict regimen medication prevented the arteries from clogging for he refused to change his excessive diet. But this was not all too uncommon among them. Only the newest appointed High Cardinals did not have at least one organ that was failing and required cybernetics. Of course, the technology to clone organs was available but outlawed for the flesh was holy.

Archon Treyar entered flanked by a coterie of Divine Guardsmen clad in their white armor to symbolize purity. He was still able to stand though with the assistance of a cane and shuffled over to the table. Cybernetic implants saved Treyar's failing heart, liver and kidneys allowing him to live but otherwise he looked healthy for a man of high incredibly old age. Out of respect, the High Cardinals stood for him. Canditlaa summoned slave attendants nearby to help him up. When Treyar seated, the rest seated. They were located in the heart of the Citadel of Light which was built in honor of almighty God and served as the political center of the Imperium. It was a large, magnificent edifice built in an ancient architectural style making use of pillars. The room they were in contained a high ceiling with the walls being adorned with various religious symbols and texts taken from the Sacred Scriptures. Its design allowed for voices to project throughout allowing High Cardinals in the past of old age to hear without the use of technological aids.

"The subjugation of Bhahi is complete. We have accounted for its entire population of approximately 1.3 Billion and have redistributed three-fourths of them throughout the Imperium to serve as slaves. I am proud to say, they are now in communion with God." Said Canditlaa in a synthetically crafted voice through his respirator. The High Cardinal thought of the slave harem he took for himself out of the population of Bhahi and resolved to be pleasured after the meeting. He took a deep mechanical inhale before continuing. "Production is on schedule as well."

"Excellent. You will not be needing as 34th Fleet anymore then." Said Pantecker, High Cardinal of War who began a vicious coughing fit. When it was over he continued. "The 34th must return to port for maintenance. As God has decreed through his voice on this plane Archon Rumens, predecessor to our holy father Archon Treyar: One must maintain his house as much as his soul so that he may raise others in the Faith."

Treyar cleared his throat. "Holy Father wishes to speak!" said his personal Executor, Deacon Ralis.

"We must reward those holy warriors of the 34th that showed the deepest commitment to the Enlightenment. I will issue an edict for our dead, absolving their souls and declaring their current place in paradise. For it was decreed by Archon Charian generations ago, that to slay an infidel is no sin. It is the path to heaven. Those who sacrifice their lives are celebrated in the afterlife. We must remind the people and our brave crusaders of that." Treyar said in a raspy voice.

"Amen!" Replied the High Cardinals in unison then touched their heads and hearts to symbolize their deference to the word of God.

"We are well financed. Conquest is in the budget. God has granted us this bounty so that we may be his instrument of light in a galaxy filled with darkness." Dirnix stated. A Covish slave servant was silently injecting Dirnix with his daily medicine while he spoke. It was a does of nanites that unclogged his arteries and cleaned his blood for Dirnix's kidneys were beyond repair.

"But the Throne of Heaven will not be pleased if we stagnate. God will bring calamity upon us if we incur his displeasure. The good Lord requires us to continue on with our holy mission. I charge you, High Cardinal Ratia and you, High Cardinal Pentacker, to select the next civilization we will bring our light to. Those outside the Holy Imperium live outside the Faith and it is our duty to save them from themselves. Too many in the galaxy are doomed to the fires of hell." Treyar addressed the High Cardinals of Foreign Affairs and War respectively.

[Ithalian Empire]

Na'sen nodded as he listened. "I appreciate the apology. But I know of distrust. I have read thousands upon thousands of cases of distrust in The Archives and experienced it among my people before. I also know what hatred is, and I know how to tell the difference between the two. Your own library has provided many examples of how Antivarians display these emotions. You are a talented speaker, but you are relying on my ignorance. I am not an ignorant being. You have disrespected me in public and you disrespect me with these lies, but I accept your apology." Na'sen stared bluntly at M'kall.

By this point the observing Nev Wark stood from his seat and began to lumber over to the two. His menacingly large green figure loomed over the two and his deep emotionless voice resounded, "Na'sen."

"After the embassy's construction I invite you to visit. You may find something you enjoy in our Archives." Na'sen nodded goodbye as he walked away.

The Nev Wark remained momentarily and gazed with a still and expressionless face at M'kall before turning and following Na'sen back to the seating area for the Art Mek and Aak officers. He remained with Na'sen this time however, leaving the Chemakos to their own devices while he kept his eye on M'kall. Nev Warks did not trust anybody and each clone was conditioned to recognize even the slightest threat. M'kall was conceived as a threat and so the Nev Wark guarded the diplomat by keeping his body in between Na'sen and M'kall at all times throughout the rest of the night.

M'kall stood there in shock. How did he see through it? M'kall was trying as hard as he could from showing his anger, but only succeeded in looking like he was in need of using a rest room.

Re'cas was on the other side of the dining room talking to some other Representatives and an Aak. Re'cas and the three other representatives had been Colonial Marines at on time and were telling tales of daring raids on pirate bases in the North Reach, an area of space that was sparse and desolate and nearly uninhabited. There was were the criminal underground of the UUC lived. Makeing bases in the billions of asteroids and rouge worlds that made up the Reach.

The four had found out by now that Aaks were the strategist of the League, and were quite happy to discuss their endeavours to him. But even while they talked at laoughed about times when they were young men, Re'cas was keeping an eyes on M'kall. There was something wrong with him tonight. Was it to much drink? Was he still upset about losing the vote and the support of most of his party?

Whatever the case he evidently made a move to apologize to Na'sen, who had somehow snubbed him in some way that the intelligent Art Mek made to look like an acceptance. Re'cas disengaged himself from the conversation and made his way over to where M'kall was.

"Maby if the first thing you said to him wasn't profanity than you would be getting along."

"Don't patronize me you filth eating creg." A creg was a type of vermin resembling a cross between a rat and a chicken.

Re'cas left M'kall there, no sense in making a fool of himself here in front of the Chancellor and the aliens. Me made his way over to were Na'sen was. There were few things that made Re'cas feel intimidated, but the large Nev Wark was now one of them.

"I hope my colleague didn't upset you in any way."

[Naretion]

M'kall stood there in shock. How did he see through it? M'kall was trying as hard as he could from showing his anger, but only succeeded in looking like he was in need of using a rest room.

Re'cas was on the other side of the dining room talking to some other Representatives and an Aak. Re'cas and the three other representatives had been Colonial Marines at on time and were telling tales of daring raids on pirate bases in the North Reach, an area of space that was sparse and desolate and nearly uninhabited. There was were the criminal underground of the UUC lived. Makeing bases in the billions of asteroids and rouge worlds that made up the Reach.

The four had found out by now that Aaks were the strategist of the League, and were quite happy to discuss their endeavours to him. But even while they talked at laoughed about times when they were young men, Re'cas was keeping an eyes on M'kall. There was something wrong with him tonight. Was it to much drink? Was he still upset about losing the vote and the support of most of his party?

Whatever the case he evidently made a move to apologize to Na'sen, who had somehow snubbed him in some way that the intelligent Art Mek made to look like an acceptance. Re'cas disengaged himself from the conversation and made his way over to where M'kall was.

"Maby if the first thing you said to him wasn't profanity than you would be getting along."

"Don't patronize me you filth eating creg." A creg was a type of vermin resembling a cross between a rat and a chicken.

Re'cas left M'kall there, no sense in making a fool of himself here in front of the Chancellor and the aliens. Me made his way over to were Na'sen was. There were few things that made Re'cas feel intimidated, but the large Nev Wark was now one of them.

"I hope my colleague didn't upset you in any way."

Na'sen chuckled, "I am far from upset. Your colleague is filled with hatred towards me and then attempted to lie to my face. But it is no matter for worry. I called him out on it and accepted his noticeably forced apology." Na'sen quickly noticed the nervous glances Re'cas passed to the Nev Wark. "You don't need to stand there. It's fine."

"My assignment is to protect. I must do so." The emotionless monster that is a Nev Wark said.

"He is filled with hatred sure, but this is a formal dinner in front of his peers and superiors. If he were a threat he would not be one here." Na'sen said.

The Nev Wark stayed silent for a moment and then grunted before going to watch over the Chemakos again.

"Sorry about him. Most of their population are clones yet they refuse to clone someone with diplomatic skill to come on these missions." Na'sen laughed. "Are you enjoying your evening?" Na'sen picked up his glass and took a drink.

[The Orson Empire]

Grand Complex, Klandulor, Klandul Systems

It was early in the morning in the capital district. Activity was bustling as usual, with thousands of ships entering and exiting the atmosphere of the planet on an hourly basis and billions of civilians going about their daily lives, even in the face of total war with the Alliance. However, the Grand Complex was much quieter than usual. Many employees of the Covenant's bureaucracy had not yet arrived in the building. Additionally, there were no meetings scheduled with the Sector Lords and the rest of the Reformer leadership today. Thus, the grand, ornate halls of the Complex were largely deserted. Zena, however, was awake, having gotten very little sleep the past night due to recent troubling events. Inside her office, she spoke with High Admiral Lo Sei'Is, a male Cho'Dosan, via a video conference (as Lo was at his base of operations in the Xianus Sector) on the matter of a new offensive the Covenant would begin- the invasion of Ostia. The channel was encrypted, should any prying eyes try to view the conversation for themselves.

Ever since the war began, the Covenant suspected that Ostia and the Tagali Federation has secretly been providing aid to the Alliance while presenting themselves as neutral during the conflict. Now, the Covenant had definitive proof that Ostia was assisting the Alliance, as thousands of Ostian ships had been spotted by Covenant probes in the Moresti and Sol Systems. They had the markings of the Alliance on them, but Zena nor High Command were fooled by it. It was obvious that the Ostians had painted these symbols on their ships to make it seem as if they were Alliance vessels. Additionally, Ostian and Federation battlesuits were identified and engaged by Covenant forces in the Zobus Nebula, where they successfully made away with a Kelraazan dreadnought. Upon receiving this intelligence, Zena was infuriated, and knew that the Covenant would have to act quickly and strike first before the Ostians and the Federation could get the upper hand. She was aware of the risks- a war with Ostia would not only drag in the Federation, but possibly the ISC, and the Covenant would still have to deal with the Alliance. Nevertheless, Zena saw this war as inevitable, as the Ostians and the Federation were surely conspiring to stop the Covenant's expansionism.

"Admiral, I am sure you are aware of War Plan Ostia, correct?" Zena would say.

"Indeed, Overlordess," Lo replied.

"Then now is the time, admiral." Lo's eyes widened as Zena spoke, as he knew what was coming. War Plan Ostia was an invasion plan created by High Command, meant to be used if the Covenant ever entered war with Ostia. It was one of numerous War Plans the Covenant had created for most major powers in the galaxy. War Plan Ostia called for a rapid blitz through Ostian space in order to quickly crush the small Ostian naval forces. Ostia would be split in half between east and west and destroyed piecemeal. If the plan happened perfectly, the world of Ostia itself could be under siege within days.

"You are to be put in command of some 200,000 warships and charged with executing War Plan Ostia and conquering the domains of the Protectorate."

"Overlordess...this is so sudden," Lo replied in shock. "I am aware of the actions of Ostia supporting our enemies, but if we invade, we will bring the might of the galaxy's superpowers on the Covenant!"

"Do not question my motives Admiral. I am well aware of what is at stake," Zena replied sternly.

"What about the Council? What of their approval?"

"What about them?" Zena would put her right fist onto her desk. "I am the state, and they shall not question me, lest they want to be executed for treason."

Lo gulped. "But what of the planned offensive into Alliance territory? We were supposed to-"

"There is no longer any offensive planned," Zena interrupted. "The Alliance will not hold out much longer, and thus, those ships may serve on another front. Now, you are to transfer to the Dronis Sector, where the Covenant fleets are already massing in preparation for the invasion. You are to invade as soon as the fleets are ready- there will be no declaration of war on Ostia or any formalities. We will hit them hard, and we will utterly destroy them in a surprise attack."

Lo stood firm as Zena gave him the orders. "I will carry out your command, Overlordess," Lo replied. "Ostia shall be subjugated."

[The NAR]

-SOLIS ALLIANCE-

---

---

Sol System // Alliance Space
Battle for the Sol

---

It was now obvious that the Sol System would not be spared from the Covenant onslaught - despite the Alliance's best efforts to prevent it. Hundreds of thousands of Covenant Warships poured into the Sol System, launching it's first strikes at the Kuiper Belt, and pushing towards the nearby planet of Saturn. Despite the vastness of the Cho'Dosan Fleet, the Alliance was very prepared, and began putting up a shockingly-successful defense at Saturn. 92,000 vessels, roughly a third of the Alliance Defensive Fleet in the Sol System, engaged the Covenant from hundreds of separate clusters around Saturn. Massive orbital artillery weapons began to bombard the incoming Covenant forces, including the brand new [i]Typhoon - a massive weapon using similar technology as Atlas' Prometheus Cannon. Thousands of Alliance ships seemed to shake space itself as they unleashed a wall of fire on the Covenant, while smaller Frigates used Electronic Warfare Capabilities to shut down shields or deactivate enemy weapons systems. Bombers harassed the Covenant ships, which fighters and mech units targeted enemy starships as they left their hangers. The Alliance vessels hit the Covenant from a broad front, but were hard to detect and lock on to, which would secure high losses for the Cho'Dosan as the battle began.

-Battle for Earth-

Everyone knew it was coming, but nobody wanted to believe it. As the thundering clap of Covenant cannons echoed across Earth's landscape, many would hide under beds, desks, cars, or possibly even pulled the covers over their heads like children - hoping the sheets would protect them from the Blue Menace. Though for many, there was no escape from a force who's only concern was the destruction or subjugation of Humanity. More than a hundred thousand Covenant ships entered the System, opposed to just 97,000 Alliance vessels. The Alliance personnel were dedicated, angry, and vengeful for previous defeats, and wanted this victory more than ever. Their spirit was matched only by their strategic advantage, having control of Luna, Earth's moon. Luna was the key to Earth - without Luna, the Covenant would never take the planet. The Alliance knew this, and they were prepared to fight to the death for it. Thousands of artillery placements began to cut through the Covenant Fleets while subterranean jamming stations prevented most access to it's orbit by enemy vessels. More than 10,000 civilian vessels joined the fight - hastily equipped with light cannons and gatling guns. Even a few thousand pirate vessels joined the fight on the side of the Alliance in order to defend their nation and their homeworld.

Despite all of this, the Covenant attack was not unfelt on Earth. Volleys of cannon fire rained down on Earth, smashing into many major cities and setting them up in flames. New York, Philadelphia, Chicago, Detroit, Boston, Toronto, Quebec City, all bombarded by Covenant fire. However, Europe took the worst of it. Nearly every major city in southern Britain, as well as most of Northern Europe, were shredded by hundreds of thousands of plasma cannons, killing millions.

[The NAR]

"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"

"Unfortunately, that call doesn't belong to me. The FIS is in charge of all matters relating to the Task Force. I can just simply state my opinion on the subject and they choose whether or not to listen. However, I can say the subject of your family has come up. I can assure you that they will be taken care of." Yaliza spoke up.

"Operatives have been deployed to evacuate them off the planet. It will take time, but I assure, they'll be safe."

"Admiral, with all due respect, I don't care what the FIS says" Daniel said, crossing his arms and putting his weight on his crutch. "if Earth is burning, the Pennsylvania will be there to defend it".

[Ubaria]

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

2 Days (Sol Standard) Later...

The Nights Cradle and her compliment of six logistics vessels were completely invisible from outside of the gas giant, both to the naked eye and to most forms of electromagnetic scanners. It was the same for the Zhong Vey ships located inside the dense gaseous atmosphere, they couldn't see far through the beige tinted fog that surrounded them on all sides and the electromagnetic interference created by vast electrical storms played havoc with most of their external sensory equipment, the only means they had of observing happenings beyond their own eyes was a shaky line of communication with the HDF flagship that was leading the Faulian forces in the defense. There was a shaky and uneasy atmosphere on the bridge of the Zhong Vey flagship, not due to fear or panic, but of a restless yearning for battle, because for Zhong Vey, this was what they lived for and what better way to prove yourself than in epic battle against insurmountable odds, for better or for worse. A naval battle wasn't the best way, the Zhong Vey preferred up close and visceral hand to hand combat or at least within visual distance of your enemy, that's why Ship Commanders were thought of as cravens, because their battle was done over possibly hundreds of kilometers and there was no honor to it, however in modern times they were a necessity.

Azif had spent the two days in deep thinking, not only about his personal situation but the fate of Zhong Vey civilization as a whole now that the Council had ushered in a new wave of religious fanaticism. It meant that intellectuals much like Khazak would be targets of high importance for arrest or elimination, alongside cultural figures and chieftains who opposed the ruling and it would all be carried out by inquisitors and the loyalist Zhong Vey military. It could potentially spell a new dark age for their whole race and result in the deaths of millions, if not billions of lives. There was war, then there was slaughter.

"You seem troubled." Khazak had arrived on the bridge earlier but had said nothing up until now, he too was in deep in serious thoughts.

"Of course i am. A fool would not be" Azif snapped back, perhaps a little twitchy. He let out a long raspy tone and turned to face the intelligence officer.

"Apologies. I'm not myself." The Captain took a step off the central podium and down towards a circular projector that displayed a compartmentalized image of the Nights Cradle, with all the major and sub-systems illustrated clearly.

"I hope our Faulian comrades can handle their end of the fight" Khazak worried, but did his best to mask his concerns.

"Of course they will. This is the heart of their lands, they will fight the battle to its end, a battle we have bought to their homeworld. We are lucky they haven't turned on us also."

It was true, they had been lucky to strike any kind of deal at all with the Minister. Azif was half expecting them to be expelled from their territory to never return, dooming both Azif himself and potentially the Faulian homeworld, or part of it to destruction. It was a miracle they had not only struck an alliance, but also offered military aid.

"Better the warrior who wishes not to fight but must, than the warrior who seeks the fight without need"

---

2nd Holy Inquest Flotilla.
Flagship - Nemezdia Blue
Entering Faulian Space

Appearing from the blackened void of slipspace came the flagship of the 2nd Holy Inquest Flotilla, the battleship 'Nemezdia Blue'. The silver hull dully reflected the radiation of slipspace as it emerged slowly, a similar ship followed suit as was the second battleship to arrive and sister ship to the Nemezdia, it was christened 'Volant Wraith', both ships similar in design were then accompanied by three smaller frigates which in truth, were re-fitted freighter and haulage ships and offered nothing more than a light screening for the main powerhouses. Finally, two light support ships flanked the formost battleship on either side, these were capable of launching barrages of missiles and were more adept in maneuvering than any of their counterparts.

The fleet outmatched the Nights Cradle and her six lightly armed logistic cruisers no question, although the battleships were around half the size, they packed a more formidable punch with twin banks of plasma repeaters and a whole array of missile launchers at hand. The smaller frigates had the benefit of rapid turbolasers and powerful plasma torpedoes to boot, they would protect the areas that the battleships were weakest and had the least defense, whilst the light supports would harass from the safety of the battleships large armaments.

After the whole fleet had jumped in one by one, they paused and re-convened in formation before heading out to closer inspect the planet and hopefully acquire their target. They transmitted a message that was entirely in Zhong Vey, but translatable now the Faulians had the necessary know how.

"Addressed to Commander Azif Callur of the Zhar-Cull tribe. Surrender yourself and your crew and you shall not be harmed, you will be transferred to the Nemezdia Blue and returned to Inaba. Refuse, and you will be destroyed."

The message made no mention of the Faulians, probably because they were intent on the fact that they were not going to get involved, but to their disappointment, that wasn't the case. As the fleet drew nearer to Eto, they became more frustrated that the Nights Cradle continued to elude them and started preparing weapons and defense systems.

"As for the creatures. Do not try to intervene, or you too will be destroyed"

[Beiarusia]

Faul Republic
Nell Breaya
HDF Nomu, Eto Prime, Eto, Faux System

Nell was rushing down the corridor in a near panic, having been away from the bridge and relaxing elsewhere when the STC alert had come through. Multiple ships had just jumped in-system. For better or for worse the Zhong Vey had arrived, and Nell, having a role to play in the coming conflict, was close to hyperventilating.

“Take a deep breath,” Vera instructed. The two had been spending a lot of their free time together and had been in each other’s company with the aliens arrived.

The advice seemed to work as Nell calmed a bit.

“Better?”

“Not really,” the young captain said.

Not that it mattered. The two reached the bridge and slid into their respective spots, joined by the other crewmembers who had also been away for whatever reasons. In a matter of moments the bridge had come alive. An organized chaos that Nell did her best to keep track of. As the Nomu came online fully the captain took the time to look over the local space, noting that the two human ships were still in orbit near Outreach Station. Any attempt to repair the Second Chance had gone slowly and, given the current situation, it was now a matter of keeping the foreign vessels firmly rooted where they were. The Nomu would essentially be playing the part of babysitter. Unless the Zhong Vey decided to force their way into Eto’s orbit, in which case Nell was expected to engage. Needless to say she hoped that wouldn’t come to be the case.

“Confirming STC alert,” Vera said from her station.

Eto STC monitored all incoming and outbound vessels in the system. They had sent the alert to all HDF ships upon confirming an FTL transition. One such vessel was stationed near the second gas giant, Bara, and would descend deeper into the gravity well to alert Azif and the hiding HDF ships of the Zhong Vey arrival.

“Transmission coming in from the Zhong Vey flotilla,” Vera added.

The message, translated, was soon played for all to hear.

"As for the creatures. Do not try to intervene, or you too will be destroyed"

Nell gripped the arms of her seat rather tightly, her knuckles going white. The Zhong Vey captain spoke with a coldness that was unlike Azif, who, despite his odd language, had never once come across as sounding hostile. This was a different case entirely, and Nell was afraid of what would come next. There was no telling how the Zhong Vey would react to their hail. More sharp words or an actual demonstration of their threat?

Her words, as steady as she could force them to be, were sent back to the Zhong Vey. “This is the Nomu. You are entering territory belonging to the Republic. You will follow the orders of Space Traffic Control or you will be ejected from the system. Do you comply?”

“You know they won’t,” Vera said.

Nell shrugged. “I can hope.”

---

HDF Combined Flotilla
Bara, Faux System

The HDF had broken into three separate flotillas, each led by one of three destroyers currently in system. The Nomu had remained in orbit over Eto. The Nekt and the Lesher had joined the Night’s Cradle in Bara’s gravity well. They were completely hidden in the gas giant’s clouds, and though masked they were also blind to the happenings outside the planet’s influence, barely capable of sending transmissions between themselves much less millions of kilometers. It wasn’t long until the small ship on station outside Bara’s grip descended down to pass word of the Zhong Vey’s arrival. The news passed like wildfire between the ships – reaching the Night’s Cradle after some time – and the combined flotilla readied for combat.

It was now only a matter of baiting the trap.

---

Flotilla Nekt
- Destroyer x1
- Corvette x2
- 1000 Gunship x2
- 1100 Gunship x4

Flotilla Lesher
- Destroyer x1
- Corvette x2
- 1000 Gunship x4
- Carrier x2

Flotilla Nomu
- Destroyer x1
- Corvette x3
- 1000 Gunship x5

* Flotillas are named after their flagship.

[Laurvier]

Holy Rakaran Imperium - Core Worlds
Charra System - Divine Fleet Staging Ground


The Charra System was one of several staging grounds for the Divine Fleet. Ships that were atmosphere capable landed on the surface while the larger vessels docked at massive space stations orbiting the system's many moons. A Task Force of 48 Penance-Class Cruisers was waiting to run training missions near the asteroid belt using the floating debris as targets. Divine Fleet organization tended to create powerful but inflexible units. All Rakaran ships received the designation HDV or His Divinity's Vessel for Rakaran ships, like everything else in the corporeal world belonged to God. Among them was the HDV Koung Flahak, named after a monk who was martyred over a thousands years ago. Another Task Force was ahead of them and being evaluated by the system's senior command staff. With so many ships in the system it was seldom that they were rotated in for exercise and evaluated for training. Leading the Task Force was Commodore Dosen wearing the Divine Fleet's tan uniform with red epaulets and cuffs. The training regimen of the crew usually began in the mornings hearing mass from the ship's priest who also served as the political officer. Next, the priest would put the crew through its basic theology lessons in the Sacred Scriptures. This would last until noon where drills and exercises were ran. For enlisted personnel, tasks were relatively easy. They were taught to do one specific thing with very little room for discretion. Officers received a bit more discretion and trained in the more complex duties such as weapons control, sensors, navigation and engineering. After dinner crewmen studied combat and operating the ship from a theoretical perspective. A prayer session ship wide was held again then the crew had about an hour of free time before going to bed. This was only one rotation of course. Most Rakaran ships held two rotations of crews with one off-duty while one was on. An off-duty crewman always slept on his counterpart on-duty crewman's bunk in the cramped crew's quarters.

Commodore Dosen, along with anybody in the military who had been selected to lead multiple ships went to Academy again to learn very strict doctrines on how to engage against enemy forces which they had to commit to memory. The Admiralty always reviewed engagements after the fact and punished any deviance from Rakaran Naval Doctrine even if it resulted in success. Like many officers in the military, Dosen was the bastard son of a clergyman. In his case, a Deacon from the core world of Charra Prime which was the hub of this very system. As a core world, industrial enterprises dominated the planet's economy and poisoned the environment. He remembered the planet's brown skies so filled with smog the open sky was no longer visible. An unlucky few of core worlds as a result of the pollution developed an incurable cough later in life like Dosen had.

"Commanding Officer on deck!" The sergeant-of-arms yelled when Dosen entered the CIC. Everyone stood for the captain of the Koung Flahak and commander of the Task Force.

"At ease!" He said then began to go into a coughing fit. "Sit...COUGH...sitrep!...COUGH" Dosen said while pulling a portable breather mask out of his pocket that he took a few breaths through that ended the coughing. He then hacked up a mouthful of green phlegm and spit it on the floor of the CIC.

"Sir, we are ready to begin the exercise." Said the Communication Officer.

Looking over the CIC, most would have holographic displays. Rakaran ships were a bit more primitive still making use of monitor screens to understand what was going on. Some controls were still analog as well. The whole ship seemed like something from another age. Pipping was exposed in the dimly lit corridors. Metal throughout ship looked tarnished and chipped. Air that the crew breathed was stale and smelled of grease. Dosen took another breath from his breather before speaking.

"Order the Task Force to deploy in Formation 1..." Formation 1 was the standard Rakaran attack formation which consisted putting their ships in a staggered line to make the best use of their powerful laser cannons. Dosen then gave the quantitative orders for the bearing and course of the fleet. "Begin running Simulation 12." The Task Force was networked. A sort of web of information were collected from each of the ships and then disseminated to all the rest providing optimal targeting solutions. Simulated hostile contacts began appearing on the networks sensors which the Operations Officer reported. "Fleet firing solution 1. Arm all laser batteries and begin fire point procedures." Fleet Firing Solution 1 was the basic attack protocol that assigned each ship to a different target to make sure there were no redundancies in fire concentrations. Some situations differed. When a capital ship was in play Dosen would of course concentrate more firepower on that but this simulation showed ships within the similar class of the Penance Cruiser. Fire Point Procedures ordered the Weapon's Officer to begin running the ship's computer to begin a track and analysis of their target. Algorithms analyzed their flight pattern, trajectories and predicted the motion of the target to plot numerous viable firing solutions. Out of all possibilities, the computer would then analyze these and select the best one a fraction of a fraction of a second before the lasers fired providing the best accuracy. It helped that the lasers had a slow firing rate due to the inferior computing power of Rakaran ships giving them time to compute these firing solutions.

"...and God said, rain fire on thine enemies and bring my light to the unbelievers..." Mouthed the priest political officer.

"Fire." Said Dosen.

Dazzling beams of yellow gold light shot forth from each ship of the task force. The view screen at the front automatically adjusted to account for the brightness of the laser beams which would have been uncomfortable to look at. Dosen imagined the beams cutting through infidel manned vessels. Rakaran lasers had long range to compensate for the slow speed of their ships and they were extremely powerful. The downside was that they had a slow rate of fire and ate up copious amounts of energy. "Rapid continuous fire. Approach at attack pattern alpha-2 at two-thirds." Although running the ship impulse engines at full or flank speed would be faster, that would cost too much energy.

The ships began to split into two groups that approached the simulated enemy formations at an angle. Dosen remembered the words of his instructors at the Academy. Like the path to salvation, approaching enemy formations in the most direct route is seldom the best route. Almighty God takes us on a meandering course with mysterious intent but all the more profit to our immortal souls. So too must we behave in holy battle. You must always approach the enemy at an angle. To charge head long at the enemy would mean their attacks striking the hull at a perpendicular angle which would do more damage. At the same time, taking too wide of an angle meant a very long approach. Rakaran Naval doctrine held that the most economical way to approach the enemy was at 30 degree angles that held the best combination of closing distance and mitigating damage. Then to circle inward when the course began to take you away from them. That way their strikes tended to glance off the armor instead. Rakaran ships in battle tried to close the distance despite the impressive range of their lasers so that they could bring their crude artillery cannons with nuclear tipped shells to bear which were energy efficient weapons. On top of their laser cannons slow rate of fire, there were periods were they were completely not operational during a battle due to sapping the power of their capacitors which required time to recharge from the ship's 3 anti-matter reactors. When they were closer the Rakarans could use their shorter ranged rapid firing artillery cannons whose projectiles traveled at slower velocities than lasers which could be made to travel faster than light. This would also be more effective against enemy point defense cannons and countermeasures. Close range also minimized the disadvantage they had with their inferior targeting systems. Finally, the computers could not produce as accurate of targeting solutions due to the rapid fire of the artillery simply being unable to keep up. The guns themselves were not designed well enough to be accurate weapons. This hardly mattered though when the range was close enough. Rakaran Naval Doctrine preferred odds at close range where they could bring their artillery to bear and their superb nano-hardened reactive armor plating could withstand the damage. But they were perfectly comfortable at longer ranges too where their lasers could out distance the enemy.

"We're beginning to take heavier damage from enemy railguns." Said the Operations Officer.

"Online active hardeners for 5 seconds." Ordered Dosen then took a deep breath from his portable breather.

Aside from the stock armor plating Rakaran ships fielded, there were energizing hardening modules that could vastly increase the resilience of their armor at the cost of mass amounts of energy. If not firing their lasers they could be left online for longer periods but Naval Doctrine declared that captains were to keep their fire continuous at all costs. Therefore, the hardening modules had to be intermittently pulsed less the ship completely run out of energy.

In this particular simulation the enemy fleet was holding their ground while Dosen's Task Force were the attackers. By splitting the Task Force, the goal was to eventually bracket the enemy formation with the two groups while being in close. "Approaching artillery range!" The Operations Officer shouted. "Arm artillery batteries and begin fire point procedures." Said Dosen. Everything he had done so far was completely by the book which was what the Admiralty stressed. It made reaction time quicker and organization better at the cost of limiting versatility in tactics. "Rapid continuous fire on the artillery." Lasers ammunition was unlimited. Their capacitors only need be recharged from the reactors. Artillery shells were not and therefore the firing was only simulated. Command would not tolerate the wasting of ordinance on exercises.

[The Moscow Metro Red Line]

Main Command Center - Dzerzhinsky Fleet Starbase - Orbit Around Zaisser - Dzerzhinsky System

"This is Border Patrol Sierra Seven Nine to Castle Zero One, we confirm the buildup of Covenant forces near the border. Listening posts and border stations are reporting massive movement near the border."

For half-an-hour now, the border guards of the Ostian Navy were reporting a massive movement of Covenant military starships near the border. While ships had passed by before, the numbers being counted suggested that something sinister was in the works and they reported the movement of these ships to the fleet starbase. Admiral Adolf Kneller, commander of the Dzerzhinsky defense fleet, ordered that all ships remain on high alert and submitted a report to the Southeastern Sector Command (SESC) in the Sovik System. The Dzerzhinsky system was a melting pot of Ostian and Sovik culture, and was a trading port for goods from the Protectorate to the Covenant and vise versa. However due to the embargoes placed upon the Covenant, this once prosperous port has been very quiet until recently.

Admiral Kneller looked nervously at the screens as reports kept streaming in about the movement of Covenant ships. "Has SESC replied to my confirmation of movement of Covenant ships near the border?"

"We are receiving a transmission from SESC, pending." The operator was silent for a few moments before responding. "The 13th Fleet will be arriving to support the current number of ships in the system. Our orders are to continue monitoring the situation and keep our forces on high alert."

"Are there other movements of Covenant starships?"

"SESC have confirmed that numerous other posts in the Durch and the Unehrenhaft systems have also reported movement of Covenant starships. The SESC is currently trying to contact the Ministry of War at Ostia to relay this information."

"Excellent, have all forces be on standby. Have all ground forces and even the militia on standby."

"Should I call for an evacuation of the system, Admiral Kneller?"

"Not at the moment, just alert the citizens to report to their nearest shelter. Tell them that it is a drill. We don't need to have panic so quickly. Alert the Governor as well about the current situation."

---

War Room - Ministry of War Building - Nue Berlin - Ostia - Ostia System

The Ministry of War was the epicenter of the Ostian military. While there were two command centers in Nue Berlin, one in the Ministry of War and one in the Ostian Armed Forces Headquarters, the Ministry of War was the primary command center of the Ostian Military. There has been no day that the Ministry of War was not busy, but today it seemed just as busy as during the Highbreed War a decade ago. Numerous high-ranking Ostian military officers, strategists, tacticans filed into the War Room, a massive room inside of the Ministry of War built to allow the Marshall and other high-ranking officers to command asses the military strength of Ostia and its neighbors. But for today, the massive map of the Protectorate was projected on the main screen and many officers sat near a long circular table showing numerous holograms.

"If these reports are true, then the Covenant are planning to invade the Protectorate. Those numbers are probably not meant to intimidate us." Warned one of the generals around the holographic table.

"It wouldn't be surprising considering that we are providing the Alliance with military aid. In fact I would be surprised if they didn't invade us in response to this." Responded an High Admiral around the table.

"Gentlemen and Ladies." A deep and commanding voice spoke towards the crowd of officers. Marshall Theodore Kruger walked into the room, accompanied by his senior aide, the rest of the officers saluted the Marshall in response to his entrance. "The Minister of War will be here eventually, he is in the meeting with the Ostian Council at the moment. So what is the situation regarding our southern borders? From what I understand, the Covenant is massing ships near the border."

"That is correct, Marshall Kruger." Spoke one of the Generals who walked closed to him. "Here is the latest information from the Border troops......"

---

Main Chamber - Palace of the Protectorate - Nue Berlin - Ostia - Ostia System

The hologram was none other than Empress Lenina Marx the Third. When her image appeared at the podium, everyone in the chamber bowed once in her holographic presence. "Councilors", the Empress spoke compassionately. "As you know, we face a grave situation at the moment. With the ongoing war between the Covenant and the Alliance along with a significant portion of Ostians and none Ostians calling for support to the Alliance, it is no surprise that our friend, the Tagali Federation, would be asking if we needed assistance in this matter. There are already Tagali Military forces in the Protectorate who have proven that they are willing to aide our military in times of crisis. Who could forget the infamous Gerechtigkeit blockade and the Einheitsparteri pirates? Who was it that supported our struggling military? I do not need to remind you all since everyone clearly remembers it was the Tagali Federation who helped us in these internal matters." She looked towards the NPP section of the chamber. "Perhaps you think that Ostia serves as nothing more than a buffer state for the Federation and the ISC against the Covenant. But evidence and intermingling of our two nations have proven otherwise. You know as well as I do that I value the lives and the health of our citizens more than my own. And this is why we should accept their offer. In this dangerous time we live in, we cannot stand alone any longer." She looked towards the Royalists. "We cannot go back to the past." She looked towards the New Left. "Nor should we copy from others." She focused on the center. "We must stand together with our friends or we shall fall into disunity and conflict. My father died in hopes of the peace and progress that we have achieved today. If war should come to our shores, let us not back down from it. After all, We are Ostians after all, are we not?"

The whole chamber stood silent for a few moments before the people behind the Empress stood and began clapping, Chancellor Wieck clapping the loudest. Following them was the WFA, the SDP, and the Royalists who were followed by the NF and the NPP. The whole chamber was clapping at the end of the Empress's speech.

"Thank you, I have faith that you will pick the correct course for the nation." The Empress spoke softly and then bowed before her hologram dissipated into blue light. Chancellor Wieck took the podium after the Empress's hologram fully dissipated. "Shall we begin voting or is there something else we need to discuss?"

"There is one thing I would like to clarify before we begin voting." Wieck clenched his teeth, Of course it is Percival Pfaff who would speak right after me. "How will our military be prepared for such an war with the Covenant? Should we begin practicing evacuation drills? Should we move more troops? The point is that such actions would only provoke the Covenant into invading our country."

"With the recent movement of soldiers and material into the Alliance, it is no surprise in my opinion that the Covenant would be any more provoked than it already is." Replied Chancellor Wieck.

Percivial Pfaff's eyes lit up, and he smiled. "So are you saying that your administration planned to have a war with the Covenant since the beginning of your actions to help the alliance?"

Oh God, this is vote is going to take longer than I thought, Wieck thought to himself. "No, you are misinterpreting this administration's policy. I shall clarify my previous statement....."

[Ithalian Empire]

Na'sen chuckled, "I am far from upset. Your colleague is filled with hatred towards me and then attempted to lie to my face. But it is no matter for worry. I called him out on it and accepted his noticeably forced apology." Na'sen quickly noticed the nervous glances Re'cas passed to the Nev Wark. "You don't need to stand there. It's fine."

"My assignment is to protect. I must do so." The emotionless monster that is a Nev Wark said.

"He is filled with hatred sure, but this is a formal dinner in front of his peers and superiors. If he were a threat he would not be one here." Na'sen said.

The Nev Wark stayed silent for a moment and then grunted before going to watch over the Chemakos again.

"Sorry about him. Most of their population are clones yet they refuse to clone someone with diplomatic skill to come on these missions." Na'sen laughed. "Are you enjoying your evening?" Na'sen picked up his glass and took a drink.

Re'cas smiled, "Indeed I am. The Aaks are very intent to listen to an old warriors stories of bygone days of glory. Tell me Na'sen, you've spent the past month looking over our compiled history. What do you think of us? Are we what your League would wish to associate with? Or are we to... bloody? I want an honest answer."

Re'cas was something of a historian himself, as most military men in the UUC are, and he was genuinely curious of what the Art Mek thought of his people. Surly he had read of the atrocites committed by his ancestors. Nearly two thousand years of constant warfare over just the simplest of matters.

Surely Na'sen had read of the terrible things that happened in the Last War. Whole cities set aflame by orbital bombardment, billions dead, genocide's happening on nearly every world. How had his species survived that terrible war? How had they suddenly looked around them and saw the terrible destruction wrought by their own hands? How had it all lead to the formation of the UUC and the end of warfare for Antivarians? These were questions that Re'cas asked himself many times over.

Chancellor Ruse was sipping a glass of the same liquor that the rest of the guests were drinking. It wasn't too strong, drunkenness and diplomacy never mixed well, but it had a sweet flavor and complemented the selection of savory foods that Antivarians love to eat. He found himself talking to a few Represenitives. It was odd. On day these men were at eachothers throats the next the were sharing drink and talking like the were best friends their entire lives.

Every one save for M'kall. The Isolationist had been acting odd ever since the League had been in Antivar's orbit. It was causing many to suspect that M'kall was planning something, but there was no evidence that he was. But that didn't mean the Ruse trusted the man. He was young, arrogant, and ambitious, a dangerous and volatile combination. But Ruse figured Re'cas could keep him in line, give him enough of a headache and the Legislature to make M'kall wish he never entered politics.

Ruse smirked at that. He was sure that he would be the one to lead his people to greatness. He was wrong.

[Naretion]

Re'cas smiled, "Indeed I am. The Aaks are very intent to listen to an old warriors stories of bygone days of glory. Tell me Na'sen, you've spent the past month looking over our compiled history. What do you think of us? Are we what your League would wish to associate with? Or are we to... bloody? I want an honest answer."

Re'cas was something of a historian himself, as most military men in the UUC are, and he was genuinely curious of what the Art Mek thought of his people. Surly he had read of the atrocites committed by his ancestors. Nearly two thousand years of constant warfare over just the simplest of matters.

Surely Na'sen had read of the terrible things that happened in the Last War. Whole cities set aflame by orbital bombardment, billions dead, genocide's happening on nearly every world. How had his species survived that terrible war? How had they suddenly looked around them and saw the terrible destruction wrought by their own hands? How had it all lead to the formation of the UUC and the end of warfare for Antivarians? These were questions that Re'cas asked himself many times over.

Chancellor Ruse was sipping a glass of the same liquor that the rest of the guests were drinking. It wasn't too strong, drunkenness and diplomacy never mixed well, but it had a sweet flavor and complemented the selection of savory foods that Antivarians love to eat. He found himself talking to a few Represenitives. It was odd. On day these men were at eachothers throats the next the were sharing drink and talking like the were best friends their entire lives.

Every one save for M'kall. The Isolationist had been acting odd ever since the League had been in Antivar's orbit. It was causing many to suspect that M'kall was planning something, but there was no evidence that he was. But that didn't mean the Ruse trusted the man. He was young, arrogant, and ambitious, a dangerous and volatile combination. But Ruse figured Re'cas could keep him in line, give him enough of a headache and the Legislature to make M'kall wish he never entered politics.

Ruse smirked at that. He was sure that he would be the one to lead his people to greatness. He was wrong.

"That depends." Na'sen put his glass down and pondered for a moment. "My people are of course intrigued with you. We are intrigued with everything. The Aaks, as you can see, get along with you just fine. I am sure the Nev Warks would like you if they were capable of feeling anything. The Nehmer love just about everyone. The Aeregons would like you...but their way of expressing positive feelings is rather violent. The Maligrath and Shali Gi probably will have reserved feelings after learning your history. The Luthoreans and Humans will have split opinions. Et cetera. Overall there is no ideal friend for Naretion due to our extreme diversity. However the entire point of the formation of The League was to see every non-hostile life form as a potential friend. You are a people with different ideals united for self-preservation, which is exactly what we are. As long as UUC remains friendly, I don't think anyone in Naretion will have a problem with you." Na'sen went back to sipping his drink and passed a glance at M'kall.

Recently the population of The League had begun booming due to the restrictions placed on Nev Wark cloning were revoked. The Nev Warks were not in full mobilization however due to the cautious feelings still placed upon them. But as Na'sen watched his Nev Wark guard considering someone a threat, he saw justification in the eyes of the Nev Warks. If there is a threat, they will go into full mobilization. A fully mobilized Nev Wark nation was hard to deal with. The original league (only lacked the Har-xsi and the Nehmer) composed of fourteen species and the humans' Aleandro army lost at almost every turn to the Nev Warks. It took the might of the actual Har-xsi Empire, an intergalactic power, just to defeat them (The odds were 4 to 1 and The League's side lost over 3/4ths of their ships). In fact with the actual Har-xsi Empire now hostile to Naretion, the addition of the Har-xsi refugees and even the entire Nehmer population might not be enough to take on a fully mobilized Nev Wark army. Na'sen was not overly in favor of how the restrictions lifted. Sure, the Nev Warks could serve as a one-man army in the interests of The League...but each clone was a puppet whose strings were pulled by leaders back on their home planet. If they chose to revert to their former imperialism they would be unstoppable by the rest of The League. Na'sen wanted this visit to go without any incident not only for the protect of relations with the Antivarians, but also to prevent the Nev Warks from having a reason to fully mobilize. Once they did, they'd be uncontrollable. And if their loyalties would really remain with The League is hard to determine due to their lack of emotion and the lack of interaction with the actual leaders on their home planet. No planet ever won against a Nev Wark orbital siege, and he hoped that The League would be able to find new allies such as the UUC or find new countermeasures by themselves before the Nev Warks ever fully mobilized again.

[Ithalian Empire]

"That depends." Na'sen put his glass down and pondered for a moment. "My people are of course intrigued with you. We are intrigued with everything. The Aaks, as you can see, get along with you just fine. I am sure the Nev Warks would like you if they were capable of feeling anything. The Nehmer love just about everyone. The Aeregons would like you...but their way of expressing positive feelings is rather violent. The Maligrath and Shali Gi probably will have reserved feelings after learning your history. The Luthoreans and Humans will have split opinions. Et cetera. Overall there is no ideal friend for Naretion due to our extreme diversity. However the entire point of the formation of The League was to see every non-hostile life form as a potential friend. You are a people with different ideals united for self-preservation, which is exactly what we are. As long as UUC remains friendly, I don't think anyone in Naretion will have a problem with you." Na'sen went back to sipping his drink and passed a glance at M'kall.

Recently the population of The League had begun booming due to the restrictions placed on Nev Wark cloning were revoked. The Nev Warks were not in full mobilization however due to the cautious feelings still placed upon them. But as Na'sen watched his Nev Wark guard considering someone a threat, he saw justification in the eyes of the Nev Warks. If there is a threat, they will go into full mobilization. A fully mobilized Nev Wark nation was hard to deal with. The original league (only lacked the Har-xsi and the Nehmer) composed of fourteen species and the humans' Aleandro army lost at almost every turn to the Nev Warks. It took the might of the actual Har-xsi Empire, an intergalactic power, just to defeat them (The odds were 4 to 1 and The League's side lost over 3/4ths of their ships). In fact with the actual Har-xsi Empire now hostile to Naretion, the addition of the Har-xsi refugees and even the entire Nehmer population might not be enough to take on a fully mobilized Nev Wark army. Na'sen was not overly in favor of how the restrictions lifted. Sure, the Nev Warks could serve as a one-man army in the interests of The League...but each clone was a puppet whose strings were pulled by leaders back on their home planet. If they chose to revert to their former imperialism they would be unstoppable by the rest of The League. Na'sen wanted this visit to go without any incident not only for the protect of relations with the Antivarians, but also to prevent the Nev Warks from having a reason to fully mobilize. Once they did, they'd be uncontrollable. And if their loyalties would really remain with The League is hard to determine due to their lack of emotion and the lack of interaction with the actual leaders on their home planet. No planet ever won against a Nev Wark orbital siege, and he hoped that The League would be able to find new allies such as the UUC or find new countermeasures by themselves before the Nev Warks ever fully mobilized again.

Re'cas thought over Na'sens statement for a while. "Well as long as the Isolationist never get anymore power than the have we will never have such a problem." Re'cas surly hoped that those fools didn't try anything. There were rumors of extremist Isolationist gathering on world were Isolationism was the dominant political party. It was woring to say the least. But without the suport of the navy any rebelion would qickly be stomped to dust.

[Reatra]

It had been three months since the wave of colonization vessels departed. hollowed out asteroids carrying a total of eight million people. And it was time for the next wave.

The planets’ populations had confirmed that they had safely reached a point where their nanobots could build cities safely and quickly. The supercomputers that ran the non-human parts of the country instantly autoupdated, and the nation adapted seamlessly. Only now the ledgers of colonists had expanded. Another forty million people were to be transported within the next four months, at which point the planets should have enough of a manpower base to function on their own. The constructed automated farms would produce enough for the population until further terraforming took place. Of the sixty worlds where the asteroids “landed”, only three had enough of an organic base to be considered candidates for “immediate terraforming”, which meant that the work on their biospheres would commence right as the second wave arrived. Obviously the alien life forms (mostly microscopic) would be hostile or, at least, dangerous to Rylonians, and therefore must be eradicated before any colonization of Dunaronian species could happen.

The nanobots would take care of most of it, killing any alien species efficiently and quickly and using the carbon and oxygen to create more friendly soils and air. Over the course of a few years the nanobots would be deployed and the planet remade… at least a little better for human life. The nanobots would continue to work for many years, as the human cities expanded, so would the planet’s biomes. But the humans would identify the areas of the planet with the most potential and they would be given priority for terraforming, so that cities and mines could be established there ASAP.

All in all, the planets would flourish in the coming decades.

---

“This is… IRS Millennium More awaiting clearance.”
“Control grants clearance. Proceed.”
“Thank you. Onto Kilek, as they say.”
“Good luck, Millennium More, be safe. The City Awaits.”
“The City Awaits.”

And so the IRS Millennium More, a newly built and manned exploration vessel, warped into its little space-time bubble. Onto the Kilek system, opposite of Earth, opposite of San Francisco. Because for as important and glorious the City By The Bay is, it was dangerous. Enemies lay there, we are not yet ready. But soon, perhaps a decade more. Perhaps a century more. Perhaps a Millennium More... But this vessel would fully map out and survey the confirmed nine worlds of the Kilek system, of which two are gas giants and seven are rocky worlds. It is speculated that two of the worlds are life-harboring, which would make the eventual colonization and terraformation that much easier, as already present organic materials allows for the nanobots to not have to construct every single molecule of soil, or water. While it is possible to turn a completely barren rock into a paradise, it may take decades. So an already organic world was prime real estate.

That is why the IRS Millennium More was built, manned, and launched from orbit around Aurik, the farthest factory world. Nineteen days later it arrived in the system and began zooming from planet to planet. Naming the worlds officially according to Administration-approved naming conventions. The planets, from closest to the star to farthest, are now as follows.

Utrosh: A small rocky world, thought to be a recently formed collection of asteroids. Rich in minerals.

Tyukii: An organic world. Gravity roughly one and a quarter times greater than Dunaron (which is 1.40 times greater than Earth). Many species, none completely sapient.

Naulikil: Also organic world. Relatively small for an organic world, gravity at .63 that of Dunaron. Many species, none completely sapient.

Reptiliku: Large rocky world. Covered in dead desert. Mineral rich.

Qullku: Rocky world, Ice on surface.

Wealtil: Large gas giant, major rings, 87 noted moons.

Fopoi: Gas giant, minor rings, 62 noted moons.

Desdrel: Icy rock world. Two noted moons, mineral rich.

Vali: Icy rock world, one noted moon, mineral rich.

And then there is the incredibly dense comet field around the system.

The survey team then transmitted all information back to Dunaron, and the Administration was ecstatic at the vast opportunities of this system.