Twilight of the Galaxy: Reloaded (IC, Open)

[The Fallen Jedi]

"The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."
- Lao Tzu

Space, it is the final frontier that all races strive to reach and hold within their grasp, to expand their influence and grip on the galaxy's vast expanse to gain the answer to questions long since asked by each primitive race "Are we truly alone in the Universe?". As each species establishes their hold over a small piece of the massive pie that is the Galaxy, their answer eventually reveals itself through a number of scenarios that were long since thought hypothetical that they are not alone in the Universe. The Galaxy is teeming with life that you can unite under your rule diplomatically, or in a militaristic fashion akin to a hostile business takeover. However, as you leave your mark in the Galaxy, there is a very likely chance that you shall stumble upon nations of either equal or overwhelming power. How you respond to these foreign powers is up to you, but know that as the sun begins to set upon the Galaxy, the stars shall shine upon the Galaxy, it's majestic twilight shall replace the rays of the once mighty sun.

Welcome wayward traveler to the Twilight of the Galaxy, a Space Age and Future Tech RP that is a pure sandbox-type Rp where the individual player can forge their own story and make their own desires a reality in the vast expanse that is Intergalactic Space. In this adventure into obtaining an understanding of the stars that surround us, you have the ability to start off as one of the many Intergalactic Factions that have either made their mark in and around the regions that surround them, or even being a relatively fresh, young Empire that has formally established itself in the vast expanse that houses countless other species with a hidden potential, you could even play as an Early Space Age Nation that has only recently pierced the veil of their atmosphere in order to answer the long-wondered question that permeates our hearts and minds "Are we alone in the Universe?" If that isn't enough, then perhaps you would prefer to be a shadowy organization that has become either a influential or new face in the Galactic Black Market, or even play as a Smuggler or Bounty Hunter who simply desires to make a living by illicit means. Regardless of what path you choose for yourself in this Era of Prosperity, anything is possible as long as you, the player make it a reality.


Rules

1. Standard NS Rules Apply
2. Respect any ruling made by the OP or even the Co-Ops
3. Respect Thy Neighbor (Respect Each Other)
4. No God-Modding, Meta-Gaming, Etc...
5. Abilities like Psionics and even Alchemy as well as Magic is allowed to be used in this Rp, but if your Psionic/Alchemy/Magic User is able to perform feats like taking a massive army on with only one person will not be tolerated, if there are any signs of abuse with these abilities, the Op and Co-Op will act accordingly on it.
6. If you have any questions for the Co-Ops or Myself, please feel free to ask at anytime
7. Create Your own Nation! We are not using pre-existing Sci-Fi/Galactic Nations
8. Have Fun! The Galaxy is a big place for exploration and can hold secrets that are beyond comprehension as well as those who are also hidden among the stars, there is a LOT to do here!

Redirect Links

- Application Archive: viewtopic.php?f=31&t=385094&p=29459384#p29459384
- Lore Database: viewtopic.php?f=31&t=385081
- Out Of Character Forum: viewtopic.php?f=31&t=385090

[The Orson Empire]

Draugo Waystation, Uncharted Regions
Sien-class Frigate

Since the establishment of the Reformer regime, Security Operations (SecOps; the secret police and intelligence organization of the Covenant) had established the goal of exploring the Uncharted Regions in the galactic north. The Uncharted Regions were very dangerous, as sensors only functioned in the small proximity around a spacecraft, and a spacecraft was unable to scan ahead any further. Probes had been deployed in the area in the past, but the never returned, seemingly being stuck in deep space. However, data from the probes revealed that they were detecting some sort of beacon, likely used to guide ships through the area. SecOps deployed more probes, which followed the beacons and ended up near several large space stations.

After this discovery, SecOps approved an expedition to one of these stations. SecOps would send a Sien-class Frigate, a 500 meter long ship that carried a complement of 700 crew and was armed with plasma turrets, point-defense laser turrets, and railgun batteries, to the space station. The frigate was under the command of Captain Kai Lya'Tu, who had previously deployed probes to the Uncharted Regions. The ship was equipped with a more advanced jump drive, capable of speeds of 1,000 light-years per hour, which would allow them to travel to the Uncharted Regions fairly quickly.

The frigate left the docks above Zaxa, the headquarters of SecOps, and entered warp. After over two days of travel, the frigate exited warp far from the space station. The frigate would increase its speed, and it began moving towards the space station.

"Current distance is roughly 5,000 kilometers, Captain," the chief navigator would say. The captain viewed a holographic map of the area from her chair. "Have they hailed us yet?" she would ask.

"We have not received any hails," the chief communications officer replied. "Should we go ahead and establish contact?"

"Wait," the Captain ordered. "We do not know exactly what we are dealing with yet. Let's see if they contact us first."

Nova Italia, Nova Roma Imperium

Having now consolidated their strength, the Reformer regime decided that now was the time to look for allies.

The primary candidate was the Nova Roma Imperium, a minor nation that had spun off from the United Nations of Sol. The Reformed Council considered that if the provided economic and military support to the Romans, they would eventually eliminate the UNS, which could prove to be a thorn in the Covenant's side in the future; the Romans could also provide support in the Covenant's military endeavors. Having previously sent a communique to the Romans requesting the establishment of the alliance, Lestor Pers'Av, chief Minister of Foreign Relations, was sent to Nova Italia to deliberate the terms of the alliance.

Pers'Av's diplomatic ship arrived out of warp in a high orbit around Nova Italia. A hail was sent out, alerting the Romans that the Covenant had arrived.

Chalsolis, Tagali Federation

Days ago, pirates from Tagali space crossed over into the Covenant frontier and raided numerous ships, taking prisoners as slaves, and they attacked two asteroid colonies. Piracy was uncommon in the area, so there were no fleets in the system where the colonies were located, and there were few soldiers defending the colonies themselves. A distress signal had been taken out, but the nearest Covenant fleet was dozens of light-years away, so it took time for them to arrive. The fleet arrived just before the pirates left the system. They discovered the destroyed remains of several ships and found the colonies in ruins, and only about 200 people survived.

Admiral Iso'ko, leader of the fleet, was enraged at the sheer cruelty of the pirates. Covenant High Command was alerted about the attack, and that the pirates were tracked as heading towards Chalsolis, a Maug-Lai colony in Federation space. High Command ordered Iso'ko not to engage, as they had entered Tagali borders, but he ignored the order. His officers largely supported him; they all hated space pirates more than anything else, and they figured they could win a quick battle against the pirates and return to Covenant space.

The fleet of 120 ships jumped into the Chal system, located in a high orbit around Chalsolis. The admiral was now in the war room of his Jainus-class Battleship, where a map that showed the local area and all ships nearby was displayed by a holoprojector.

"Looks like the scanners are detecting 140 warships, but they aren't pirate. They...are Federation ships," an officer would say.

"The Feds...or Maug-Lai have that strong of a force out here? Perhaps we should hail them," the admiral replied.

[Alinora]

- GALACTIC ALLIANCE -

---

The emergence of the Galactic Alliance nearly 2,000 years ago marked the beginning of a new era of civilization, and since it's creation, the nation has served as a beacon of liberty and democracy throughout the Galaxy. Forged through war and by the common desire for freedom and independence, the Alliance would become an early embodiment of resolve, and among the first truly cosmopolitan nations to exist. Throughout it's history, the Alliance has expanded through the vastness of space and uplifted thousands of races - allowing them to harness the power of technology and to have a voice in the Senate. However, the road to peace has been paved with corpses, and in it's quest to grant freedom and liberty to all regardless of race or religion, the Alliance has encountered enemies that would see it's destruction. The most prominent of these enemies: the Covenant.

When the Covenant discovered that another nation of significant size and strength existed, it quickly became clear that no peace could be made. It would be war. In what would become known as the First Raxis War, the Covenant launched a full-scale invasion of the Alliance, which ended with a hard-fought Alliance victory and a bitter truce. This would not be the first time the two powers found themselves at war, however, and since, two more Raxis Wars have been fought. While it has been years since the Third Raxis War, the two superpowers remain poised for the kill - especially the Cho'Dosan, who remain bitter at their inability to conquer the Alliance.

Despite tense relations, and an even tenser past with the Covenant, the Alliance has found itself allied with some of the great powers of the Galaxy. Forming close alliances with nations such as the Zhyrrian Commonwealth and the Tagali Federation, while extending an arm of trade to various other nations. The Alliance's vast economic influence has made it's capital, Alinora, the center of the Galactic Stock Market, and allowed for it to develop one of the largest and most advanced militaries in the world. The Alliance has cultivated an organization of Psionics known as the New Order, which based out of Alinora, serve as peacekeepers and during wartime, as generals. Though, through all of the expansion and economic growth, and the vast wealth acquired by the Alliance, they have held firm their core beliefs that all men of all races are equal, and that all lifeforms deserve a life of freedom and a chance to dictate their own future.

[The Greater Gambia]

Chalsolis, Tagali Federation

Days ago, pirates from Tagali space crossed over into the Covenant frontier and raided numerous ships, taking prisoners as slaves, and they attacked two asteroid colonies. Piracy was uncommon in the area, so there were no fleets in the system where the colonies were located, and there were few soldiers defending the colonies themselves. A distress signal had been taken out, but the nearest Covenant fleet was dozens of light-years away, so it took time for them to arrive. The fleet arrived just before the pirates left the system. They discovered the destroyed remains of several ships and found the colonies in ruins, and only about 200 people survived.

Admiral Iso'ko, leader of the fleet, was enraged at the sheer cruelty of the pirates. Covenant High Command was alerted about the attack, and that the pirates were tracked as heading towards Chalsolis, a Maug-Lai colony in Federation space. High Command ordered Iso'ko not to engage, as they had entered Tagali borders, but he ignored the order. His officers largely supported him; they all hated space pirates more than anything else, and they figured they could win a quick battle against the pirates and return to Covenant space.

The fleet of 120 ships jumped into the Chal system, located in a high orbit around Chalsolis. The admiral was now in the war room of his Jainus-class Battleship, where a map that showed the local area and all ships nearby was displayed by a holoprojector.

"Looks like the scanners are detecting 140 warships, but they aren't pirate. They...are Federation ships," an officer would say.

"The Feds...or Maug-Lai have that strong of a force out here? Perhaps we should hail them," the admiral replied.

Chal System
Chalsolis
Maug-Lai Warband of the Qanar Tribe



The arrival of the Covenant Fleet was immediately detected by the defending Maug-Lai forces. Aboard the Qanar flagship, "Fist of the War Totem", Warlord Tachala stood on the bridge, analyzing the situation.

"Noble Warlord, they have entered the system in high orbit above the planet." Said a the Comms Officer. Tachala let out a low growl.

"Warn the Federal Navy and the Highest Warlord of this intrusion. For all we know, this could be the first of an invasion force. I want all ships in defensive position!" As the message and orders were sent out, Tachala approached the holo projector, sending a message to the Covenant forces. A hologram of Tachala's large Maug-Lai frame was sent to the Covenant. The Maug-Lai appear to be a mix of wolves, large cats, and hyenas with individuals taking features from one of the three. Tachala's Qanar tribe took more of wolves, signalling their background of being native to one of the outer planets of the Maug-Lai's home system.

A hologram would appear on the bridge of the Covenant ship, displaying Tachala. His arms were crossed as his tail slammed into the floor repeatedly. His werewolf like frame barely being contained within the hologram. Tachala spoke with a deep and gravelly voice.

"You are trespassing in my system. It is only fair that I allow you the chance to leave in peace before my ships scatter your corpses across the void."

[Damverland]

Nova Italia, Nova Roma Imperium

Having now consolidated their strength, the Reformer regime decided that now was the time to look for allies.

The primary candidate was the Nova Roma Imperium, a minor nation that had spun off from the United Nations of Sol. The Reformed Council considered that if the provided economic and military support to the Romans, they would eventually eliminate the UNS, which could prove to be a thorn in the Covenant's side in the future; the Romans could also provide support in the Covenant's military endeavors. Having previously sent a communique to the Romans requesting the establishment of the alliance, Lestor Pers'Av, chief Minister of Foreign Relations, was sent to Nova Italia to deliberate the terms of the alliance.

Pers'Av's diplomatic ship arrived out of warp in a high orbit around Nova Italia. A hail was sent out, alerting the Romans that the Covenant had arrived.

Conoseus System
Ocelus Station, above Nova Italia

The Covenant diplomatic ship was detected on the planetary defense sensors. after some deliberations, the diplomatic ship was allowed onto the surface of Nova Italia. They were directed to Nova Roma, the capital and heart of the Empire, and then to the Imperial Capitol, a massive governmental complex spanning over 4 square miles. The diplomat's dropship was allowed within the courtyard of the Imperial Capitol. There they would be surrounded by guards of all size and stature. The emperor and the members of the Conorus Council greeted Pers'Av. Behind them all, the looming statue of the golden eagle of the empire paid keen watch upon those below. The emperor outstretched his hand to the xenos. "Welcome, diplomat, to the Nova Roma Imperium, and Nova Roma."

[The Orson Empire]

Chalsolis, Tagali Federation

"Sir, they have sent us a hail!" a communications officer would yell out towards the admiral. Everyone in the room went silent. A hologram of a rather ugly creature was displayed by one of the holoprojectors in the war room. It was the Maug-Lai warlord and commander of the fleet. The Maug-Lai's deep voice would boom as he threatened to destroy the entire Covenant fleet. His words were translated into the Cho'Dosan language, and the message displayed itself on an overhead screen as the warlord spoke.

Iso'ko would skip the pleasantries, simply saying,"We are not here to engage the Federation. The pirates you are harboring in this system attacked two of our settlements and numerous other ships. Since your government is too incompetent to handle the task of battling piracy, we have taken it upon ourselves to lend a hand. If you attack us, it shall only spark conflict between the Covenant and the Federation. Choose your actions wisely."

Iso'ko then ended the transmission. "Prepare this battleship for combat immediately!" the admiral yelled as everyone quickly resumed what they were doing. The admiral then spoke into his comlink to the entire fleet, stating,"All personnel, prepare for immediate combat! I repeat, all personnel, prepare for immediate combat!" Soon after, alarms went off throughout the battleship as the crew assumed their battlestations and pilots headed to their hangars.

Nova Italia, Nova Roma Imperium

Pers'Av's ship entered the atmosphere of Nova Italia and landed in the courtyard of the Imperial Capitol. Pers'Av exited the ship, followed by five SecOps guards, who were dressed in black armor and wielded Pulse SMG's and laser pistols. Pers'Av looked around, finding the Imperial Capitol to be both beautiful and impressive in size. Behind them was a golden statue of some foreign animal that he did not recognize, but it appeared to be a bird of some sorts.

Pers'Av would shake the hand of the Emperor. "It is an honor to meet you, Emperor Verusini," he would say. His words were translated into Latin by his universal translator.

[Damverland]

Nova Italia, Nova Roma Imperium

Pers'Av's ship entered the atmosphere of Nova Italia and landed in the courtyard of the Imperial Capitol. Pers'Av exited the ship, followed by five SecOps guards, who were dressed in black armor and wielded Pulse SMG's and laser pistols. Pers'Av looked around, finding the Imperial Capitol to be both beautiful and impressive in size. Behind them was a golden statue of some foreign animal that he did not recognize, but it appeared to be a bird of some sorts.

Pers'Av would shake the hand of the Emperor. "It is an honor to meet you, Emperor Verusini," he would say. His words were translated into Latin by his universal translator.

The emperor nodded at the diplomat. "The empire has been expecting what you have in store for us, Pers'Av. Come, we shall speak within the Council Building." The emperor and the Conorus Council made their walk towards the Council Building, an immense, domed structure styled around ancient roman buildings such as this one.

Once they were inside, they sat around a round table, with the "Romae Terra" banner upon the walls surrounding the circled room. The emperor sat at the north side at the table, while the diplomat, as a guest of Rome, was allowed to sit at the opposite chair. Guards watched the meeting quite closely. "I believe it is time for our meeting to be underway." Emperor Verusini cleared his throat. "We had received a notice inquiring an alliance between the Cho'Dosan Covenant and the Nova Roma Imperium, we assume this is why you are here. You may speak on the Covenant's behalf now."

[Ordei]

Ordei - The Empire of the Sun
Just outside Burned Space
Operating Fleet #21
QSAR

22 Elkin-class frigates, and 3 Gynik-class light cruisers were part of five fleets patrolling the region as it watched for signs of life. There were signs, many of them, and the Empire’s fleets were active near the region as a precautionary measure against invasion. As another precaution, 15 additional fleets had been placed under the control of Velocitan forces, in anticipation of defense being required in a new war.

“This is Captain Takata of the Orien to the Rison. Sensors aren't picking up any movement. Is there anything you guys are picking up?” A young voice asked over communications.

“No,” a more seasoned one replied, “we haven’t detected anything either.” The more seasoned voice didn't sound annoyed in any way, but its owner was fully aware of the fact that the other vessel would have picked up anything that his ship would have at this range.

“Oh.” A tinge of disappointment was in the voice, “sorry.”

“It’s okay.” There was an amused chuckle then.

Ordei - The Empire of the Sun
Waynor System
Research, Development, & Construction Site #117
The Forge

Development on the supersizing, and advancement of Ordeian industrial mass replicators had started on schedule at RD&C #117. Here, a massive space construct known only as the Forge would be researched, developed, and constructed, a wonder of this space age that would last thousands of years to come, and be inherited by younger civilizations after Ordei’s fall. The Forge will redefine everything from construction, to how plagues and invasions are dealt with due to its massive capabilities that will allow Ordei to make great friends, and, if used with a lack of intelligence, secrecy, and diplomatic tact, could mark Ordei for extermination.

The Forge isn't just one building, but instead a combination of four dwarf planet-sized mass industrial replicators surrounding a base of operations that are, in turn, surrounded by smaller, but equally next-gen industrial mass replicators. Protected by various hybrid shield generators created a multi-layered, variable frequency, as well as a permanent Continuun shield covering the entire complex, it can also use a directed energy weapon-based defense suite, point_defense weapons, two hangers of manned fighters, and twelve hangers of multipurpose drones (which are used for dozens of things around the complex), as well as a permanent stationing of military vessels, it is an incredibly important strategic asset meant to be well-defended. It is an icon of Imperial supremacy that will be keot secret from all but those that need to knowz with numerous protocols, code words, alternative names, and other such things put into place to protect it.

The Forge is not meant to be used willynilly, or in a way that makes it clear that the Ordeians hace something used to construct warmachines. It has multiple purposes, and probably won't be used to frequently make military vessels, but instead to further goals such as spreading immediate-traverse jump drives to the rest of the Empire, its client states, and their civilians (the civilian jumo drives have hardware built into it that alerts Imperial military officials to their arrival, thankfully), to give jobs, and to be hidden. Its job is to serve Imperial wants, and needs, but not to make the Ordeians antRget, and certainly not to be bragged about. (My way of saying that I won't use it to make numberwanking more possible, to add flavor, and numerous other things... Not that I need to, since I have 300 billion drones, though even their numberwank abilities are limited since they are spread out over many different types)

Meant to construct ships, work towards specific goals, provide additional production capabilities, quell galactic plagues and mass famine, and to do whatever else is needed, it will be the most sophisticated replicator system in all of the galaxy when constructed. Using self-replicating nanites, and matter-energy conversion methods, it doesn't require the resources that previous versions of industrial replicators needed. When constructed, other industrial replicators will be updated so that the production capabilities of Ordei enter a new age. New abilties include self-sustaining power systems, 'antibodies' and an 'immune system', drone software, and other pieces of hardware and software that allow interoperation between mass replicators, combined with numerous other features that create an ease of use.

Aware that it would be a major target of any kind of enemy that the Empire had, the research committee ordered several fleets to be posted in the Waynor system. The protection of such a valuable resource at any cost will allow the nation to redefine their industrial replicator variants, making them as easy to use as household models. Then, when completed, the nation will have new industrial mass replicators that, like the formerly used ones, will last for generations.

Ordei - The Empire of the Sub
Draugo Waystation
Empire Territory

Draugo Waystation, Uncharted Regions
Sien-class Frigate

Since the establishment of the Reformer regime, Security Operations (SecOps; the secret police and intelligence organization of the Covenant) had established the goal of exploring the Uncharted Regions in the galactic north. The Uncharted Regions were very dangerous, as sensors only functioned in the small proximity around a spacecraft, and a spacecraft was unable to scan ahead any further. Probes had been deployed in the area in the past, but the never returned, seemingly being stuck in deep space. However, data from the probes revealed that they were detecting some sort of beacon, likely used to guide ships through the area. SecOps deployed more probes, which followed the beacons and ended up near several large space stations.

After this discovery, SecOps approved an expedition to one of these stations. SecOps would send a Sien-class Frigate, a 500 meter long ship that carried a complement of 700 crew and was armed with plasma turrets, point-defense laser turrets, and railgun batteries, to the space station. The frigate was under the command of Captain Kai Lya'Tu, who had previously deployed probes to the Uncharted Regions. The ship was equipped with a more advanced jump drive, capable of speeds of 1,000 light-years per hour, which would allow them to travel to the Uncharted Regions fairly quickly.

The frigate left the docks above Zaxa, the headquarters of SecOps, and entered warp. After over two days of travel, the frigate exited warp far from the space station. The frigate would increase its speed, and it began moving towards the space station.

"Current distance is roughly 5,000 kilometers, Captain," the chief navigator would say. The captain viewed a holographic map of the area from her chair. "Have they hailed us yet?" she would ask.

"We have not received any hails," the chief communications officer replied. "Should we go ahead and establish contact?"

"Wait," the Captain ordered. "We do not know exactly what we are dealing with yet. Let's see if they contact us first."

”This is Ordeian Diplomat Ryt of the Draugo Waystation. Please dock; do not worry about compatibility with our docking systems, as they will morph to fit yours. I haven't seen your ships before, but your probes have the same signal. We will meet onboard!” The happy diplomat said over the hail he opened up, his reptilian features visible in the video. His tail wagged behind him, clearly sharing the good mood.

The Draugo Waystation was a hub of activity, as it wasn't just a waystation, but was also a trading hub, a meeting center, and more. Like many starstations, it also had permanent residents, who enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere of the station. Now, a new contact would be allowed to share its luxuries.

[The Greater Gambia]

Chalsolis, Tagali Federation

"Sir, they have sent us a hail!" a communications officer would yell out towards the admiral. Everyone in the room went silent. A hologram of a rather ugly creature was displayed by one of the holoprojectors in the war room. It was the Maug-Lai warlord and commander of the fleet. The Maug-Lai's deep voice would boom as he threatened to destroy the entire Covenant fleet. His words were translated into the Cho'Dosan language, and the message displayed itself on an overhead screen as the warlord spoke.

Iso'ko would skip the pleasantries, simply saying,"We are not here to engage the Federation. The pirates you are harboring in this system attacked two of our settlements and numerous other ships. Since your government is too incompetent to handle the task of battling piracy, we have taken it upon ourselves to lend a hand. If you attack us, it shall only spark conflict between the Covenant and the Federation. Choose your actions wisely."

Iso'ko then ended the transmission. "Prepare this battleship for combat immediately!" the admiral yelled as everyone quickly resumed what they were doing. The admiral then spoke into his comlink to the entire fleet, stating,"All personnel, prepare for immediate combat! I repeat, all personnel, prepare for immediate combat!" Soon after, alarms went off throughout the battleship as the crew assumed their battlestations and pilots headed to their hangars.

"All ships, standard formation!" Tachala ordered. The Maug-Lai fleet formed up into a spearhead formation, with dozens of the smaller ships like frigates and cruisers forming a defensive wall around the much larger carriers and dreadnoughts. Unlike Federal Naval vessels, Maug-Lai ships are heavily armored and armed, able to take and dish out incredible amounts of damage. Unfortunately, Maug-Lai ships lack the speed and maneuverability of Federation ships.

Tachala hailed the Covenant ships again. This time he showed his teeth like a dog about to attack. His pitch black fur was standing up, making him appear to be twice his already impressive height.

"You have no right to be here, Cho'Kata! Return to your overpopulated slum rocks you call worlds or we will open fire!"

[The Greater Gambia]

Tagali Federation Space, Core Region
Todval System, Jakala (Tagali Homeworld)
Jakala planetary ring habitat installation, Chalkuze City




About 350 Million years ago, a massive asteroid collided into Jakala's Moon, Hana. The impact was powerful enough to break off large chunks of the satellite and send them hurdling towards the large planet, almost wiping out all life on the planet. The planet was inhospitable to anything except the most hardy and competitive of organisms, leading to the Tagali and the hyperaggressive fauna and flora that is seen on Jakala today.

The impact is the cause for the large rings that orbit the planet today. These rings are home to many large asteroids locked in orbit around Jakala. These asteroids were some of the first landing sites of early Tagali space programs. As the Tagali began to make more permanent plans in space, the asteroids were used as mining colonies and resupply points for trips to Hana and beyond. The population and prosperity of these outposts boomed, but were not to last. Coinciding with the beginning of the Tagali dark ages, the mines had been exhausted. The Mining colonies became poverty ridden slums or even completely abandoned. This didn't change until the creation of the Tagali Federation.

With the creation of the Federation, the Tagali needed a place where system Representatives could meet and live during their tenure. Unfortunately, Jakala had tedious population control measures due to the shortage of space the Tagali could expand into. Even a few hundred new residents and their families would upset the delicate balance the Todval government maintained on the Homeworld. Thus the renovation of the planetary rings began. Whole new cities were built on these asteroid belts as enormous amounts of funding went into the project. Within a couple of decades, the asteroids went from slums of generations of poverty to rich cosmopolitan habitats. More asteroids were maneuvered in and connected to the already inhabited asteroids to deal with the growing population.

The Ring installations became home to sizable populations aliens as well, both Federation and foreign. Being the seat of power in the Federation, Chalkuze City, the largest of the Asteroid Cities, became the destination for foreign Embassies to open up.

1,343rd Annual Federation Representative's Gala
To: All Representatives of Federation Client Races and Foreign Dignitaries.
From: the Federation Ministry of Diplomacy

Greetings, the Ministry of Diplomacy would like to inform you of the 1,343rd Annual Federation Representative's Gala. Please join us as we foster better relationships between the Tagali Federation and its member species as well as foreign Nations, ensuring peace in the Galaxy and a better tomorrow. The Gala will be held Month 2,Day 15 1348 Federation Standard Year (Human Calender, January 15th, 2341). We hope to see you there.

[The Orson Empire]

Nova Italia, Nova Roma Imperium

Pers'Av would speak somewhat slower, allowing the universal translator to fully translate his words. "The Covenant wishes to establish an economic and military alliance with the Imperium. The Covenant is willing to provide your nation with advanced technology, but in exchange, we request that you keep the United Nations of Sol in check. The UNS is a rising power, and since they are directly on our northern border, they could prove to be problematic in the future. We are aware of your turbulent history with the UNS; thus, this alliance shall ensure that they never become a superpower."

Draugo Waystation, Uncharted Regions
Sien-class Frigate

"Captain, we have received a hail!" the chief communications officer yelled. A video of the reptilian Ordeian diplomat came up on the central overhead screen. The universal translator apparently recognized his speech, and the translation into the Cho'Dosan language appeared on another screen. "This language looks...familiar," the officer said.

"Isn't that English?" Captain Kai said.

"How the hell do they know English? Isn't that language from the UNS?" another officer said.

"I guess we will find out," Kai replied. "Take us in, navigators."

"Yes Captain," the chief navigator replied. The frigate's sublight engines would power up, and the frigate blasted off towards the waystation at an incredible speed. After some time passed, the frigate entered a large dock on the waystation, preparing to begin docking procedures.

Chalsolis, Tagali Federation

As the battleship prepared for combat, the Maug-Lai warlord hailed the fleet once again. His hologram appeared in the holoprojector, though this time, he appeared much more angrier.

Admiral Iso'ko now knew that there was no way out of this. He would have to fight the Maug-Lai to the the death. "Well..." the admiral began, "prepare to die, then."

He once again cut off the transmission. "The particle lances are charged and ready to fire," another officer would say. Particle lance cannons were among the most powerful ship-to-ship weaponry the Covenant possessed; they could fire a beam of highly-concentrated plasma over hundreds of thousands of kilometers, shredding smaller enemy ships and doing heavy damage to larger ships in a single blast. These weapons were generally present on the heavier ships (cruisers, battleships, and dreadnoughts), and they could also be aimed at a planet for orbital bombardment operations.

The admiral once again spoke into his comlink to the entire fleet. "Attention all ships, this is the admiral speaking. All heavy ships are to open fire on the enemy fleet immediately! I repeat, all ships are clear to engage. Pilots and cluster drones are not to deploy until we have entered a lower orbit."

From the numerous heavy ships in the fleet, beams of plasma could be seen shooting out towards the light ships in the enemy fleet, forming a sort of cutting beam that would rip through the defensive wall they formed around the enemy's heavy ships.

[The New Earth Federation]

Tagali Federation Space, Core Region
Todval System, Jakala (Tagali Homeworld)
Jakala planetary ring habitat installation, Chalkuze City




About 350 Million years ago, a massive asteroid collided into Jakala's Moon, Hana. The impact was powerful enough to break off large chunks of the satellite and send them hurdling towards the large planet, almost wiping out all life on the planet. The planet was inhospitable to anything except the most hardy and competitive of organisms, leading to the Tagali and the hyperaggressive fauna and flora that is seen on Jakala today.

The impact is the cause for the large rings that orbit the planet today. These rings are home to many large asteroids locked in orbit around Jakala. These asteroids were some of the first landing sites of early Tagali space programs. As the Tagali began to make more permanent plans in space, the asteroids were used as mining colonies and resupply points for trips to Hana and beyond. The population and prosperity of these outposts boomed, but were not to last. Coinciding with the beginning of the Tagali dark ages, the mines had been exhausted. The Mining colonies became poverty ridden slums or even completely abandoned. This didn't change until the creation of the Tagali Federation.

With the creation of the Federation, the Tagali needed a place where system Representatives could meet and live during their tenure. Unfortunately, Jakala had tedious population control measures due to the shortage of space the Tagali could expand into. Even a few hundred new residents and their families would upset the delicate balance the Todval government maintained on the Homeworld. Thus the renovation of the planetary rings began. Whole new cities were built on these asteroid belts as enormous amounts of funding went into the project. Within a couple of decades, the asteroids went from slums of generations of poverty to rich cosmopolitan habitats. More asteroids were maneuvered in and connected to the already inhabited asteroids to deal with the growing population.

The Ring installations became home to sizable populations aliens as well, both Federation and foreign. Being the seat of power in the Federation, Chalkuze City, the largest of the Asteroid Cities, became the destination for foreign Embassies to open up.

(Image)
1,343rd Annual Federation Representative's Gala
To: All Representatives of Federation Client Races and Foreign Dignitaries.
From: the Federation Ministry of Diplomacy

Greetings, the Ministry of Diplomacy would like to inform you of the 1,343rd Annual Federation Representative's Gala. Please join us as we foster better relationships between the Tagali Federation and its member species as well as foreign Nations, ensuring peace in the Galaxy and a better tomorrow. The Gala will be held Month 2,Day 15 1348 Federation Standard Year (Human Calender, January 15th, 2341). We hope to see you there.

New London, New Earth, NEF space

A messenger walked into the study that Chancellor Frederick was sitting in, Frederick looked up toward the messenger, he took off his glasses and placed them on the desk. He took the note that was placed on his desk, he looked at at the emblem on the at the heading of the paper it was from the Tagali Federation. He read over it and looked toward the messenger

"Get Diplomat Jacobs and His assistant, tell them that they are going to the Tagali Federation for a diplomatic party."

"Yes Chancellor" the messenger bowed and left, leaving the Chancellor to himself where he started to type up a response for the Tagali Federation

To: Tagali Federation, Ministry of Diplomacy
From: Chancellor Frederick, Chancellor of the New Earth Federation

I am glad to reply to you that the NEF would gladly attend your diplomatic part , I will sending two diplomats to attend. I hope that this diplomatic party will foster better relationships between our two nations

-Cancellor Frederick

[Plzen]

-snip-

UN Headquarters, Geneva, Earth, United Nations of Sol
13:17 Earth Standard Time, 02 January 2341

"You have called for me, June? Certainly an interesting matter, if you wanted me here on ten minutes' notice."

Niels Rasmussen, 109-year old Minister of Foreign Affairs, was perhaps the only person in the United Nations' upper leadership that called the Secretary-General by his nickname. And for good reason, too - he has served the United Nations for almost a century, starting out as a part-time police officer on some irrelevant rimworld when he was just sixteen years old, back in the good old days when Denmark still had human police officers serving alongside their robotic counterparts. Secretary-General Chang trusted his expertise and experience. And... well, there was just something reassuring about his aged and lined face.

"Ah, yes, Niels," replied the Secretary-General. "You've called me this morning about the Annual Representative's Gala, and asked me to suggest a response. Well, I have that response. After some consideration, Niels, I think you should represent the United Nations at this year's Gala."

Niels smiled.

"Oh, what fortune," he noted, with sarcasm and dramatic exaggeration, "leads a humble servant to the annals of international diplomacy?"

Secretary-General Jun-chul Chang did not do much more than chuckle. Unlike the Minister of Foreign Affairs, he was most definitely not a very jovial person.

"Yes, yes, Niels, so it was an obvious choice. Now, do you accept this role as representative of the United Nations?"

"Does a fish swim in water? Yes, June, I'll go if you want me to."

To the Federation Ministry of Diplomacy,

Greetings,

The United Nations of Sol will be present at the 1,343rd Annual Federation Representatives' Gala, to which the United Nations has received an invitation. The United Nations Minister of Foreign Affairs, Niels Rasmussen, will be attending as the representative of the United Nations of Sol. It is sincerely hoped that the Gala would be successful in further promoting the great causes of peace and co-operation.

Jun-chul Chang,
Secretary-General of the United Nations,

On this day the 2nd of January, 2341 CE

[Damverland]

Nova Italia, Nova Roma Imperium

Pers'Av would speak somewhat slower, allowing the universal translator to fully translate his words. "The Covenant wishes to establish an economic and military alliance with the Imperium. The Covenant is willing to provide your nation with advanced technology, but in exchange, we request that you keep the United Nations of Sol in check. The UNS is a rising power, and since they are directly on our northern border, they could prove to be problematic in the future. We are aware of your turbulent history with the UNS; thus, this alliance shall ensure that they never become a superpower."

The emperor continued nodding as the diplomat spoke. "We would agree with you. The UNS is a false government, it's claim of ruling mankind is not legitimate in the eyes of all good humans. they are more ruled by their robotic slaves than themselves. If, or when, we come into conflict with the UNS, we would ask for the dominion of all core UNS territories. Parts of their southern border will be allowed to be annexed into the Covenant if you so wish, but the rest is pure human territory, and should be ruled by humans solely. Do not take offense by these words of course, I am sure you would understand." The emperor paused for a brief. "But anyways, we accept your proposal of an alliance. As for further information... We have began a project called 'Project Gladiator', which I will not go into further detail but that it revolves around our soldiers in the Legions. I mention it due to your offer of the Covenant's advanced technology. If your government is interested in further details, you may report to them about it."

[The Moscow Metro Red Line]

Encrypted Message on a Diplomatic Channel

Government of the Autonomous Selinian Republic

Tr' (Mister) H'adeen Aieme
Ambassador to the Tagali Federation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Hobus System, Hobus VII, Septrxa, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Cc: The Federation Ministry of Diplomacy
RE: 1,343rd Annual Federation Representative's Gala

To the Federation Ministry of Diplomacy,

Hello, I am Ambassador H'adeen Aieme of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. I have received your invitation and will be arriving to the Federation at the soonest possible time. As you know my office is located in the ASR, so travel time will take awhile to reach the Federation. I look forward to this Gala and I will be coming along with my staff to the event. I shall be arriving in a small diplomatic fleet, but do not worry I have no intention of doing any provocative action. The ASR government is very keen on keeping out of the affairs of other nations so long as they do not concern us.

I would also like to mention that besides my staff, there will be an Judicator from the Ministry of Public Welfare's Enforcement Division accompanying me to the Gala. The Government is most interested in expanding the scope of the Prophet System to other nations so that they too can have stress-free citizens and crime-free cities.

See you very soon.

Embassies are a very peculiar subject in the ASR. Due to the Selinian Government's strict policies on immigration and emigration, there are no foreigners in the ASR unless they are at the Hobus System which diplomatic contact is to be initiated. The Hobus System is far from the heart of the ASR, but close enough for the Selinian Government to monitor foreigners. Ambassadors to the ASR are subjected to the same monitoring and laws as the citizens of the ASR. As a result there have been many complaints to the Selinian Government regarding privacy issues which have remained unanswered besides the standard reply: "It is for your safety and your health."

Even Selinian Ambassadors to other nations are forced to stay in the borders of the ASR and can only go the country they are representing if they are required to go or if it would be beneficial for the Selinian government to attend. As a result Hobus VII, the official designated planet for diplomatic contact, is nicknamed the Embassy Planet for all the embassies located there. For both the Selinian government and other governments.

[Dansha]

Tagali Federation Space, Core Region
Todval System, Jakala (Tagali Homeworld)
Jakala planetary ring habitat installation, Chalkuze City




About 350 Million years ago, a massive asteroid collided into Jakala's Moon, Hana. The impact was powerful enough to break off large chunks of the satellite and send them hurdling towards the large planet, almost wiping out all life on the planet. The planet was inhospitable to anything except the most hardy and competitive of organisms, leading to the Tagali and the hyperaggressive fauna and flora that is seen on Jakala today.

The impact is the cause for the large rings that orbit the planet today. These rings are home to many large asteroids locked in orbit around Jakala. These asteroids were some of the first landing sites of early Tagali space programs. As the Tagali began to make more permanent plans in space, the asteroids were used as mining colonies and resupply points for trips to Hana and beyond. The population and prosperity of these outposts boomed, but were not to last. Coinciding with the beginning of the Tagali dark ages, the mines had been exhausted. The Mining colonies became poverty ridden slums or even completely abandoned. This didn't change until the creation of the Tagali Federation.

With the creation of the Federation, the Tagali needed a place where system Representatives could meet and live during their tenure. Unfortunately, Jakala had tedious population control measures due to the shortage of space the Tagali could expand into. Even a few hundred new residents and their families would upset the delicate balance the Todval government maintained on the Homeworld. Thus the renovation of the planetary rings began. Whole new cities were built on these asteroid belts as enormous amounts of funding went into the project. Within a couple of decades, the asteroids went from slums of generations of poverty to rich cosmopolitan habitats. More asteroids were maneuvered in and connected to the already inhabited asteroids to deal with the growing population.

The Ring installations became home to sizable populations aliens as well, both Federation and foreign. Being the seat of power in the Federation, Chalkuze City, the largest of the Asteroid Cities, became the destination for foreign Embassies to open up.

(Image)
1,343rd Annual Federation Representative's Gala
To: All Representatives of Federation Client Races and Foreign Dignitaries.
From: the Federation Ministry of Diplomacy

Greetings, the Ministry of Diplomacy would like to inform you of the 1,343rd Annual Federation Representative's Gala. Please join us as we foster better relationships between the Tagali Federation and its member species as well as foreign Nations, ensuring peace in the Galaxy and a better tomorrow. The Gala will be held Month 2,Day 15 1348 Federation Standard Year (Human Calender, January 15th, 2341). We hope to see you there.

09:35 Cranagan Time, August 0075 NC
Cranagan, Ashjet System
IAB Combined Forces HQ

Admiral Leone Phils, the Bureau Chief of Staff, reads another report of a pirate attack on a civilian transport, his eyebrows furrowed as he closes it. Just then, a communications window opens in front of him, showing the face of his Adjutant, Lieutenant Seffle who gives a two fingered salute.

"Admiral, the Tagali Federation has sent out a message to the various nations of the galaxy about the Representnative's Gala. Will we send someone this year as well, sir?" Seffle reports, brining up the Tagali message for the Admiral to see.

Leone nods. "Yes. Please inform Representative Ankold Lon and his aide that they will act as the Bureau's representatives at this years Gala."

"Right away, sir." Seffle responds before going a salute and closing the communications window.

To: Federation Ministry of Diplomacy
From: Bureau Chief of Staff, Admiral Leone Phils

Good day to you,

I am happy to reply that the Interstellar Administration Bureau will be present at this years Gala, represented by Representative Ankold Lon and his aide. I hope that we can continue and make better the relationship our nations have with each other.

Admiral Leone Phils,
Bureau Chief of Staff

[The Greater Gambia]

Chalsolis, Tagali Federation

As the battleship prepared for combat, the Maug-Lai warlord hailed the fleet once again. His hologram appeared in the holoprojector, though this time, he appeared much more angrier.

Admiral Iso'ko now knew that there was no way out of this. He would have to fight the Maug-Lai to the the death. "Well..." the admiral began, "prepare to die, then."

He once again cut off the transmission. "The particle lances are charged and ready to fire," another officer would say. Particle lance cannons were among the most powerful ship-to-ship weaponry the Covenant possessed; they could fire a beam of highly-concentrated plasma over hundreds of thousands of kilometers, shredding smaller enemy ships and doing heavy damage to larger ships in a single blast. These weapons were generally present on the heavier ships (cruisers, battleships, and dreadnoughts), and they could also be aimed at a planet for orbital bombardment operations.

The admiral once again spoke into his comlink to the entire fleet. "Attention all ships, this is the admiral speaking. All heavy ships are to open fire on the enemy fleet immediately! I repeat, all ships are clear to engage. Pilots and cluster drones are not to deploy until we have entered a lower orbit."

From the numerous heavy ships in the fleet, beams of plasma could be seen shooting out towards the light ships in the enemy fleet, forming a sort of cutting beam that would rip through the defensive wall they formed around the enemy's heavy ships.

Tachala's ship shook as a plasma lance scraped the hull. Lucky for them and most of the fleet, their armor could withstand multiple blows. Several Frigates, weren't so lucky.

"Right answer..." Tachala thought. He barked out an order to the fleet.

"All ships, keep spearhead formation! Full speed forward and prepare the thorns! All warriors prepare for combat!" The other warlords of the Qanar Tribe did not hesitate to follow the order. Their engines lit up, propelling them forward towards the enemy formation. As they sped towards the enemy fleet, they returned fire. The frontline Frigates launched volleys of Plasma torpedoes while the larger Dreadnoughts and Battlecruisers fired of ventral beams. While Maug-Lai plasma weaponry wasn't as accurate as mainline Federation weaponry, it packed more of a punch. A single Plasma torpedo could easily destroy a small frigate or corvette.

"Noble Warlord, we've reached the second tactic marker!"

"Warlord Han'oko and Warlady Cha'ga's frigate's are destroyed. Warlord Mamangala's Battle Cruiser is in critical condition." Tachala was unmoved.

"Stay the course! Launch the Tokads. Let them weaken them before we go in for the kill." Soon, hundreds of Maug-Lai Tokad Bombers and Fighters launched from their ships, speeding past the Maug-Lai fleet and began to swarm the Covenant Fleet.

The Maug-Lai fleet flew closer, now able to see the explosions and deaths of Covenant ships as Tokad bombing runs and plasma torpedoes collided into them. Suddenly, the Battlecruiser off the portbow exploded. Many of the younger bridge crew looked in surprise, still new to the taste of battle. Some of them looked unnerved, but others continued the course along with their older tribal brothers and sisters. Tachala yelled out another order.

"All Warriors, prepare for combat! Bridge Crew, pinpoint their Commanding Ship. That is our prey!"

Various Armories of the Maug-Lai ships

(OOC: Some music to set the mood.)

Maug-Lai warriors across the fleet prepared for battle. They all dawned the armor of the Qanar tribe, a variant of the mainline Maug-Lai Grand Armada Warrior armor, with built in shielding and a HUD,as well as emergency medical dispensors and comms links. It was a cut above the standard Maug-Lai armor worn by many of the less prosperous tribes. The more seasoned warriors had various custom designs on them, usually the Qanar's Tribal symbol or of the various branches of the tribe. The leaders of the lances also wore holographic banners signalling their leadership, similar to banners worn in the armies of feudal Japan.

Each Warrior was equipped with a Maug-Lai Plasma Rifle. Those that were skilled enough also came with large swords, while primitive, was effective all the same. If they were cornered with no weapons. Their strength and claws would still make powerful weapons.

[Ordei]

Ordei - The Empire of the Sub… erm, Sun
Draugo Waystation
Empire Territory

Draugo Waystation, Uncharted Regions
Sien-class Frigate

"Captain, we have received a hail!" the chief communications officer yelled. A video of the reptilian Ordeian diplomat came up on the central overhead screen. The universal translator apparently recognized his speech, and the translation into the Cho'Dosan language appeared on another screen. "This language looks...familiar," the officer said.

"Isn't that English?" Captain Kai said.

"How the hell do they know English? Isn't that language from the UNS?" another officer said.

"I guess we will find out," Kai replied. "Take us in, navigators."

"Yes Captain," the chief navigator replied. The frigate's sublight engines would power up, and the frigate blasted off towards the waystation at an incredible speed. After some time passed, the frigate entered a large dock on the waystation, preparing to begin docking procedures.

After a military UNS mass transport ship ended up in Empire space by way of an unstable wormhole, a wave of new culture, and science made way through Ordei and its client states. Languages that had never been heard before, songs that had never been sung before, great poets that had never been lauded. Over 10,000 years of human history, combined with the knowledge of other races and their cultures flooded the Danger Lands, giving rise to an era of enlightenment, and a joy for oral teaching and learning long since lost to rapid learning techniques, with the individual that would be the Empress at the charge.

That was the simplified explanation, but the things that continue to occur in Ordei are a result of a cultural phenomena that will likely continue for centuries. The Ordeians are hungry, and no longer content with staying within the Danger Lands in the unending drama that lasted the entirety of the 15,000 years that Sun Dynasty has existed. Eventually, this time will pass, but it’s been so long since the Ordeians last reached outside of the lands that they would have grown stagnant.

The sensors identified the ship as the Covenant, but the Ordeians refused to let themselves be molded by the opinions a single race held, no matter how high of a regard they are held in. The ambassador aboard the vessel was in a glad mood, and, even among Ordeians he was a bit odd. Now, the nation would enjoy the company of a sovereign state from outside of the Danger Lands.

Ordei - The Empire of the Sun
O.E.S. Parasis; Unique Cruiser
Tagali Federation Space, Core Region
Todval System

Tagali Federation Space, Core Region
Todval System, Jakala (Tagali Homeworld)
Jakala planetary ring habitat installation, Chalkuze City




About 350 Million years ago, a massive asteroid collided into Jakala's Moon, Hana. The impact was powerful enough to break off large chunks of the satellite and send them hurdling towards the large planet, almost wiping out all life on the planet. The planet was inhospitable to anything except the most hardy and competitive of organisms, leading to the Tagali and the hyperaggressive fauna and flora that is seen on Jakala today.

The impact is the cause for the large rings that orbit the planet today. These rings are home to many large asteroids locked in orbit around Jakala. These asteroids were some of the first landing sites of early Tagali space programs. As the Tagali began to make more permanent plans in space, the asteroids were used as mining colonies and resupply points for trips to Hana and beyond. The population and prosperity of these outposts boomed, but were not to last. Coinciding with the beginning of the Tagali dark ages, the mines had been exhausted. The Mining colonies became poverty ridden slums or even completely abandoned. This didn't change until the creation of the Tagali Federation.

With the creation of the Federation, the Tagali needed a place where system Representatives could meet and live during their tenure. Unfortunately, Jakala had tedious population control measures due to the shortage of space the Tagali could expand into. Even a few hundred new residents and their families would upset the delicate balance the Todval government maintained on the Homeworld. Thus the renovation of the planetary rings began. Whole new cities were built on these asteroid belts as enormous amounts of funding went into the project. Within a couple of decades, the asteroids went from slums of generations of poverty to rich cosmopolitan habitats. More asteroids were maneuvered in and connected to the already inhabited asteroids to deal with the growing population.

The Ring installations became home to sizable populations aliens as well, both Federation and foreign. Being the seat of power in the Federation, Chalkuze City, the largest of the Asteroid Cities, became the destination for foreign Embassies to open up.

(Image)
1,343rd Annual Federation Representative's Gala
To: All Representatives of Federation Client Races and Foreign Dignitaries.
From: the Federation Ministry of Diplomacy

Greetings, the Ministry of Diplomacy would like to inform you of the 1,343rd Annual Federation Representative's Gala. Please join us as we foster better relationships between the Tagali Federation and its member species as well as foreign Nations, ensuring peace in the Galaxy and a better tomorrow. The Gala will be held Month 2,Day 15 1348 Federation Standard Year (Human Calender, January 15th, 2341). We hope to see you there.

The invigoration that the Danger Lands have, and are undergoing isn’t limited to waiting back in Empire territory for others to arrive. That would, of course, not be very different from the stagnation that the Empire had engaged in before the staggeringly eventful arrival of humans ten years ago. It has taken only ten years for foreign policy in the sector to revolutionize, aside from those small, strange, Nazi-like Client States.

When the powerful signal cut through the strange empty space of the Danger Lands, and the message from the Tagali Federation reached the ear of those in control of the Empire, a ship was dispatched. Within moments of receiving the order, a 1.8 kilometer long cruiser known as the O.E.S. Parasis entered the space-time continuum, and then appeared in Federation space. A vessel armed to the teeth, it was a testbed for various new types of technology, including a morphing, nanite-based weapons system that shifted from weapon type to weapon type for whatever suited the situation; impermeable to the sensors of most races, the surprisingly nimble ship was capable of dealing with vessels of a much larger size, and, indeed, larger amounts of smaller vessels.

The Parasis wasn’t a warship, though - no, the next generation of warships would be far more heavily armed - it was a herald of a new age of a space-faring race inspired by their first contacts with races outside of the Danger Lands in what had been centuries. To those who were intelligent, though, the threat that the Empire posed with ships unable to be picked up on sensors until they were deep within your space was clear enough, but they had no intention to go to war at the moment. A morphing docking port had noticed a standard among the races in this region in port design, and sent this information to the appropriate authorities; it was one of the only signs of galactic unity that the Empire had picked up in what was, admittedly, an endeavor currently short in existence.

There was one thing the Ordeians wondered: was the rest of the galaxy aware of the threat broiling in the southeast, or would they be surprised by the Empire bringing it up? That was the question Ambassador Tasaka Adon was tasked with answering, and he would most definitely answer it well. Taught in every caveat of ambassadorial service, he would hopefully acquire new alliances, and fresh trade offers with the nations that Ordei had always known about, but had not yet sent its particular kind of love to.

[The Orson Empire]

Draugo Waystation, Uncharted Regions

As the frigate came close to the docks, the navigators slowed down the speed of the ship. The frigate would enter the docks carefully and slowly, as it was a fairly large ship and it could easily collide with the station. Finally, the ship stopped, connecting one of its main docking ports to one of the station's docking ports.

"Docking procedures completed. We are free to go aboard," the commander said.

Captain Kai stood up from her chair. "Commander, you and five SecOps soldiers will be coming with me aboard the station."

"Yes Captain," the Commander replied. The Captain then turned her attention to her officers.

"Keep watch of the ship as we go aboard. Arm yourselves as if you were going into combat. We still do not know who these...beings are yet."

Some time would pass as the Captain and Commander suited up in armor and armed themselves with Pulse SMG's and laser pistols. They would be followed by the SecOps soldiers to the docking port, where they would board the station.

Nova Italia, Nova Roma Imperium

Pers'Av paused for a moment. He was still unsure whether the Council wanted complete control of the UNS's territory, but he hoped that the Council would be reasonable.

"I believe our government's main concern is to prevent the UNS from becoming more powerful, not conquest. I am sure they would agree to allow your nation to annex their territory. As for your project, I am sure our government would be willing to provide the resources for it."

Chalsolis, Tagali Federation

After the particle lance bombardment ended, the naval personnel watched as numerous frigates in the enemy fleet were shredded by the lances however, the heavier ships were able to absorb the impact, though one enemy battlecruiser was not so lucky. The particle lances on the heavy ships had not been fired at full power, since Iso'ko had ordered them to be fired immediately at the enemy, while some of the lances only grazed their targets or missed them completely.

"How long until the particle lances are fully charged" the admiral asked.

"About 30 minutes, admiral," an officer replied. As the enemy fleet came closer, Iso'ko then gave another order.

"All light ships are now free to engage. I repeat, all light ships are now free to engage! Pilots and cluster drones are to begin immediate deployment against the enemy fighters and bombers!"

As the enemy fleet fired off their plasma torpedoes and ventral beams, the Covenant fleet began to spread out in order to avoid becoming a giant target. Several ships were hit by the ventral beams, and while the initial blasts were absorbed by their energy shields, three frigates were crippled due to being repeatedly targeted by the ventral beams. The volleys of plasma torpedoes were much easier targets; they could be taken down by point-defense laser cannons, which were meant to protect the ships from attacks by enemy fighters/bombers and missiles. These cannons were highly accurate and capable of firing dozens of laser pulses per second at their targets. As the plasma torpedoes neared the Covenant fleet, explosions would erupt as the first volleys were taken down completely by the laser cannons; however, groups of torpedoes in later volleys were able to slip through and impact several ships- two light cruisers suffered moderate damage due to this, but were still able to fight.

The enemy fleet was now within range of Covenant ship's plasma cannons, though not quite in range to be targeted by the railgun cannons. Ships in the front of the Covenant formation immediately began to open fire on the enemy with their plasma cannons.

Then, hundreds of Maug-Lai Tokad fighters and bombers launched and flew straight towards the Covenant fleet. Squadrons of Covenant fighter-bombers had already launched from their hangars and were waiting for the enemy; however, the enemy pilots did not know that they were flying right into a trap. As the Tokad starships came close, the enemy pilots would suddenly see numerous missiles launching from some of the fighter-bombers and nearby Covenant warships. Once the missiles got close enough, they would explode open, revealing thousands upon thousands of cluster drones.

Cluster drones were a particularly potent anti-starfighter weapon that had been used by the Covenant since the Zorgon Invasion. They were always deployed in swarms, and wrecked havoc on small fighters and bombers by attaching to them and using their numerous tools (drill heads, plasma torches, saws, prying hooks, and pincer arms) to rip apart a ship and damage its internal components; they would even slice open the cockpit and kill the pilot with their tools if necessary. In addition to wrecking havoc upon the enemy fighter and bomber formations, they could be used as a form of psychological warfare due to how terrifying they were to enemy pilots.

The cluster drones would attach to many of the Tokad ships and began using their numerous tools to tear them apart. With the Maug-Lai pilots now distracted, the Covenant pilots used this as an opportunity to engage the Tokad ships with their own weaponry; some Tokad ships also managed to avoid the swarms of cluster drones and attempted bombing runs on nearby Covenant ships. They would be engaged by point-defense laser cannons and fighter-bombers.

[The Greater Gambia]

Tagali Federation Space, Core Region
Todval System, Jakala (Tagali Homeworld)
Jakala planetary ring habitat installation, Chalkuze City



"I hate these things." Said Ji'an Froth Tan, the Khyrsian Councilor of the Outer Arm Region of the Federation. The Gala was in full swing. Representatives of the Federation races and foreign dignitaries had arrived and begun to mingle. Businessmen from both inside the Federation and beyond were present as well, hoping to network for better deals. Musicians from all over the Federation were playing their traditional music for the attendees. Currently, a Dalga Band was playing nomad music from their home world of Matachakia.

"What is this all for, so that The races of the Core Region and the Frontier can flaunt their wealth in front of the Galaxy? Meanwhile I'm being barraged with requests from Thorian Representatives to loosen restrictions on their reproduction and the Vaurians of the Mana Nebula are on the verge of unemployment riots. Even my own Birth World is demanding I do something to deal with the heavy pollution.

"Relax, Honey." Said Chali Twuva, Ji'an's Ariva Wife.

"We are living in a golden age of peace. Such a gathering of people from across the Galaxy would not have been possible in previous generations. In my 5,000 years of being alive, I have seen many things. The Grand Rebellion, the rise of the Confederacy, and it's fall. All have been times of warfare. Besides, it hurts to say, but we are behind the other regions because we are stuck in the old ways. Isolation had made our Confederacy complacent and numb to the happenings of the outside. It should be no surprise that upstarts like the Tagali were able to turn a surprise attack by our arrogant navy and turn it into one of the largest conquests in modern galactic history." Ji'an gave her a quizzical look.

"What are you saying?"

"I'm saying that we can no longer stay the course we are heading. Contrary to what you think, this meeting is not just some decadent display of wealth and glory, but a way to ensure our survival through gaining allies. The Tagali see this, and we must as well." Ji'an thought over his Wife's words as he looked onward towards the gathering of Politicians and Diplomats.

[The Greater Gambia]

Chalsolis, Tagali Federation

After the particle lance bombardment ended, the naval personnel watched as numerous frigates in the enemy fleet were shredded by the lances however, the heavier ships were able to absorb the impact, though one enemy battlecruiser was not so lucky. The particle lances on the heavy ships had not been fired at full power, since Iso'ko had ordered them to be fired immediately at the enemy, while some of the lances only grazed their targets or missed them completely.

"How long until the particle lances are fully charged" the admiral asked.

"About 30 minutes, admiral," an officer replied. As the enemy fleet came closer, Iso'ko then gave another order.

"All light ships are now free to engage. I repeat, all light ships are now free to engage! Pilots and cluster drones are to begin immediate deployment against the enemy fighters and bombers!"

As the enemy fleet fired off their plasma torpedoes and ventral beams, the Covenant fleet began to spread out in order to avoid becoming a giant target. Several ships were hit by the ventral beams, and while the initial blasts were absorbed by their energy shields, three frigates were crippled due to being repeatedly targeted by the ventral beams. The volleys of plasma torpedoes were much easier targets; they could be taken down by point-defense laser cannons, which were meant to protect the ships from attacks by enemy fighters/bombers and missiles. These cannons were highly accurate and capable of firing dozens of laser pulses per second at their targets. As the plasma torpedoes neared the Covenant fleet, explosions would erupt as the first volleys were taken down completely by the laser cannons; however, groups of torpedoes in later volleys were able to slip through and impact several ships- two light cruisers suffered moderate damage due to this, but were still able to fight.

The enemy fleet was now within range of Covenant ship's plasma cannons, though not quite in range to be targeted by the railgun cannons. Ships in the front of the Covenant formation immediately began to open fire on the enemy with their plasma cannons.

Then, hundreds of Maug-Lai Tokad fighters and bombers launched and flew straight towards the Covenant fleet. Squadrons of Covenant fighter-bombers had already launched from their hangars and were waiting for the enemy; however, the enemy pilots did not know that they were flying right into a trap. As the Tokad starships came close, the enemy pilots would suddenly see numerous missiles launching from some of the fighter-bombers and nearby Covenant warships. Once the missiles got close enough, they would explode open, revealing thousands upon thousands of cluster drones.

Cluster drones were a particularly potent anti-starfighter weapon that had been used by the Covenant since the Zorgon Invasion. They were always deployed in swarms, and wrecked havoc on small fighters and bombers by attaching to them and using their numerous tools (drill heads, plasma torches, saws, prying hooks, and pincer arms) to rip apart a ship and damage its internal components; they would even slice open the cockpit and kill the pilot with their tools if necessary. In addition to wrecking havoc upon the enemy fighter and bomber formations, they could be used as a form of psychological warfare due to how terrifying they were to enemy pilots.

The cluster drones would attach to many of the Tokad ships and began using their numerous tools to tear them apart. With the Maug-Lai pilots now distracted, the Covenant pilots used this as an opportunity to engage the Tokad ships with their own weaponry; some Tokad ships also managed to avoid the swarms of cluster drones and attempted bombing runs on nearby Covenant ships. They would be engaged by point-defense laser cannons and fighter-bombers.

The Maug-Lai Fightercrafts proved more than a match for the Covenant ships and their drones. Drones of this type were nothing new to the Maug-Lai. Many Maug-Lai in the Qanar tribe and many others had experience in fighting the Scra'Shn, both in their prime and in recent years. During the Federation-Scra'Shn Conflict Centuries ago. The Scra'Shn used similar drones to pick off fightercraft and small naval vessels, something the Federation and the Maug-Lai had to learn to counter. While the conflict was long over and the Scra'Shn had felt the might of the Federation, they had quickly filled the roll of Piracy in the Federation, and had become fond of using these drones on cargo ships, keeping the training of counter measures fresh in the minds of pilots everywhere in the Federation.

It all had to do with timing. A single second could mean the difference between life and death. As the drones neared a certain distance threshhold, the Tokads were to quickly maneuver out of the way, throwing off the drones. Once that was accomplished, they were to immediately target the drones with swarm missiles, annihilating the group. Many of the Veteran pilots were able to accomplish this maneuver easily and continued on with their mission, the bombers going for the remaining Covenant ships and the fighters now engaging in impressive dogfights with their covenant counterparts. Still, there were casualties. Many of the younger more inexperienced pilots either miscalculated their timing or fate simply had their number. The drones had tore apart their ships or gave the covenant fighters plenty of time to line up their sights. Over a quarter of the Tokads launched had been killed.

Their deaths were not in vain, however, as now that the Covenant fleet was dealing with the Tokads, the Maug-Lai fleet was nearing closer to the Covenant.

Tachala's ship rumbled as a railgun round had made impact. Tachala didn't worry now. Their hulls were better equipped to deal the railguns and plasma cannons than they were with ventral beams and plasma lances.

"Noble Warlord Tachala to all Tokads. Make your final runs and return to the fleet. We shall honor our fallen with the husks of their ships. All Mecha Pilots, Hull Maneuver." Maug-Lai Mecha Suits began to climb up onto the hulls of the Maug-Lai ships. They quickly entrenched themselves in the armor to act as a mix of Point Defense and anti ship weaponry. Maug-Lai Mecha suits were equipped with ventral beam cannons. While nowhere near as powerful as the shipborn ventral cannons, in the mass numbers they had here, they could give the Covenant a run for their money. Ventral Beams went off in every direction, firing on both ships and fightercraft alike as the Maug-Lai fleet came ever so closer to the fleet.

"All ships, reroute power to engines and =close range weaponry. Warriors, to the boarding spikes." Now was the moment of truth, the Maug-Lai fleet was at full speed. Like a charge of elephants, the Maug-Lai ships rushed through the Covenant fleet. Ships were firing their point defense cannons and other weaponry at each other. The Maug-Lai fleet kept pushing through in the thick of the Covenant fleet.Tachala knew the target of his Dreadnought now, the Covenant Command ship.

"All Heavy ships, find your targets and launch Boarding spikes." The various Battlecruisers of the Fleet flew near a Covenant ship of a similar size. Once close enough, large spikes shot out from the side of the battlecruisers, impaling the Covenant ships like thorns. Now connected with the Covenant ships, Maug-Lai Warriors poured into the Spikes and boarded the Covenant Ships. For any Cho'Dosan in the immediate area of the spikes, it was a blood bath as the much larger Maug-Lai Warriors either shot them with their Plasma Rifles or gutted them with swords or even claws.

Tachala's Dreadnought pushed forward towards the Covenant Command Ship. A Covenant Frigate stood in the path.

"Keep forward. Do not stop!" Tachala yelled. Soon, the Dreadnought crashed into the Frigate, tearing it to pieces. Despite heavy damage to the front of the hull, the ship kept going, now flanking the Covenant Command Ship. Just as the other ships did, Boarding spikes now harpooned the Covenant Command Ship, trapping it in place. floods of Maug-Lai now poured into the Covenant Vessel, engaging any Cho'Dosan they found. Admiral Iso'ko would soon be hearing the sound of Maug-Lai roars and howls ringing through his ship.

The smaller ships formed a protective bubble around the harpooned ships, making sure to keep any Covenant ships willing to risk firing on friendly ships from doing so.

[Dansha]

09:25 Sirius Time, September 2030 UC, Present Day
Sirius, Arventega System
Beyond high orbit
Kesdan-Class Test Ship Kesdan

"Orbital pattern holding. Acceleration matched. Captain, we are in position to begin the test." The Kesdan's helmsman reports to Captain Borodino, the captain of the ship.

"Good." Borodino responds. "Let's hope this works. Begin the test."

The Kesdan-Class is a unique class made of three ships, meant to test the various technologies that go into the warships and Colony Ships such as the FTL system the Kesdan, the name ship of the class, is about to test. One big difference between the two classes though, is that the Kesdan and its two sister ships are armed so that they can protect themselves in an emergency.

The helmsman nods. "Yes sir, beginning test. Power conduits active. Arvel-Kindel Drive active. G-Element reaction confirmed. Esdell Effect forming. Coordinates locked. Ready to jump on your command, Captain."

"Helm, initiate jump." Borodino orders.

"Jumping." The helmsman answers before initiating the jump. "Wait, the Esdell Effect is going out of control!"

"Then stop the jump!" Borodino commands as a gravitational distortion begins to form in front of the Kesdan.

"I can't. The jump has already started." The helmsman responds."

"Damn! All hands brace for—!" The captain begins before being cut off by the ship jumping, heading for an unknown destination.

Tagali Federation
Shepard System
Near New Ottawa

Space inverts in on itself, spitting out the Kesdan into the system behind the far side of New Ottawa's moon before reverting to normal. The ship begins drifting, the crew disoriented from the uncontrolled jump, its orbital path taking it towards the planet of New Ottawa.

Captain Borodino shakes his head as shakes of the disorientation, taking a look around the bridge.

"Everyone alright?" He asks the rest of the bridge crew, getting several groans from them.

"Yeah, we're ok sir." The comms officer tells Borodino as she regains her sense of direction.

"Helm, where are we?" The captain asks the helmsman, who quickly looks over the information he is getting from the nav computer.

"Captain, from what I can tell, our ship has ended up in a different solar system from that of our own. I believe that due to the Esdell Effect going out of control, the Arvel-Kindel drive ended up taking us much further than we were meant to. Worse, the uncontrolled jump has damaged the drive and thrusters enough that they can only be repaired if we go to a shipyard. And, well, that's currently impossible to do." The helmsman answers, sounding very worried.

The comms officer then looks at Captain Borodino. "Sir, the ship's communications are picking up transmissions which I can't understand a single word of from the planet near us. It appears that it's inhabited, Captain."

Borodino simply raises an eyebrow at that before speaking. "Send out a distress call. Morse code and audio. Let's hope that they can pick up and understand the distress call. And helm, see if you can use the RCS thrusters to at least stop us from crashing into the planet."

"I'll do my best sir." The helmsman responds before turning to face the controls.

"Sir." The comms officer replies simply before turning to her console and begins the distress call. "Mayday, mayday, mayday. This is the League Aerospace Force vessel Kesdan to anyone receiving this distress call, our main engines have been damaged beyond our ability to repair without a dedicated yard and are now adrift. We require urgent assistance and repair from anyone who can hear this. I repeat, we are adrift and require urgent assistance and repair." She then switches the message to repeat and does the same message in morse code.

"Please pick up the distress call..." Borodino thinks to himself as the wait for a response begins.

New Ottawa
New Ottawa Station

Emmett Ford sits at his station, watching the ships that come and go while heading onto other systems on his monitor as his job as a Traffic Controller on New Ottawa Station, taking a drink from his coffee cup as he does so. Then, a new ship appears beyond the far side of moon orbiting the planet, far from the routes ships normally take.

"Boss, our sensors have just picked a ship appearing beyond the far side of the moon. Can't identify it." Emmett reports to his boss, Liam Murphy who is in charge of the current shift.

"Pirates?" Liam asks Emmett after thinking for a few seconds.

"No, pirates would be far more obvious." Emmett answers, giving a shake of the head as an addition.

"Could be a ship that got lost." One of the other controllers asks.

"Possibly. But—"Emmett begins to answer before the other controller shouts out in surprise.

"Boss! We're getting a distress call from the unknown ship! On both audio and morse code!" The controller reports.

"Have they identified themselves?" Liam asks the controller.

"While I can't understand what the audio message is saying, I can understand the morse code. They've ID'd themselves as the Kesdan, of the League Aerospace Force. They are adrift from their engines being damaged and are requesting urgent assistance."

"Who the hell are the League?" Emmett asks out loud. "Never heard of them before."

"We will know once we've rescued the ship. Emmett, send out a rescue team to the ship ASAP." Liam orders.

"Right away boss!." Emmett answers before getting on the line to one of the stations rescue ship. "Rescue Ship-1, this is control, we've received a urgent distress call from a ship called the Kesdan that is adrift on the far side of the moon. Head out immediately to help them."

Rescue Ship-1, one of the stations rescue ships that are always ready for an immediate launch in the case of an emergency, undocks from the station, making a burn for the location of the Kesdan. Eventually, they get a visual on the ship.

Rescue Ship-1

"What is that thing?" The rescue ship's helmsman asks out loud to no one in particular at the picture of the Kesdan.

"That must the ship sending out the distress call. It's...far less advanced than I was expecting." The comms officer replies.

The ship's captain, Leanna Briggs, cuts in. "Sensors, what can you tell me about the ship?"

"The ship is about 630 meters long. It's engines which are very basic are inactive and is currently relying on RCS thrusters to move. It also appears to be armed with multiple missile launchers and what appear to be railguns on turrets along its hull. Overall, a ship that is far less advanced than modern ships of the Federation." The officer reports.

"Thank you." Leanna responds before giving out a new order. "Before we get any closer, send a message over morse code that we have come to assist them in response to their distress call."

The communications officer nods and gets to work on sending the message. Not long after, they get a response from the Kesdan.

"The Kesdan has responded over morse code again. They say that they are glad that someone has responded to the distress call but are also curious who the Tagali Federation are. They also say that they are ready to be picked up and that only the engines themselves are damaged and there is no risk of the ship exploding." The officer reports to the captain.

"Good. Bring the ship alongside the Kesdan and prepare to pick up its crew. I also want the Kesdan moved into a stable orbit around the moon." The captain orders before the ship moves in and pulls alongside the Kesdan, special docking tubes extending out and going around those of the Kesdan. When the crew of the rescue ship and Kesdan meet each other face to face, the Kesdan's crew are taken by surprise more by the rescue ship's crew looking just like them than being aliens due to the League's...current situation involving the BETA.

"Captain, all of the Kesdan's crew are onboard and have moved the Kesdan into a stable orbit around the moon. We are ready to depart." The comms officer reports after the rescue ship moves the Kesdan into a orbit around New Ottawa's moon.

"Good. Helm, take us back to the station." Leanna responds, giving a pleased nod.

Rescue Ship-1 then turns and heads back to the station, unloading the Kesdan's crew once there who are then sent down to the planet.

[The V O I D]

Jakala - Todval System
Core Regions
Tagali Federation

The invitation from the Federation was greeted in response with a short affirmative, confirming that Crown Prince Victus II of the Imperial Family, as well as his uncle, the Empress' brother, Viceroy Remrayed of the Imperial Regency (those in the family who would become Regents until the Crown Prince could ascend to the throne) would be coming to the Gala aboard a ship known as the Excellency II. The Crown Prince, and the Viceroy, were both on the bridge of this ship as it arrived in the system. The Viceroy was in charge of security over the Crown Prince, as well as in charge of the ship. The Viceroy looked to the Crown Prince, smiling slightly, before turning back to order something in Zhyrrian; the younger Victus understood this to be an opening of channels. He composed himself as the channel opened. The official High Guard spoke for them both to introduce them, as was tradition.

"Greetings, trade partners and friends of the Tagali Federation. I hail you from the Excellency II. I present His Imperial Excellency, the Crown Prince, Victus the Second; I also wish to present, His Regency, Viceroy Remrayed. We have come to the Gala as requested, in hopes of strengthening bonds between our nations.", the High Guard said. The Viceroy bowed his head in respect; the Crown Prince simply nodded, being of the Imperial Family, in Zhyrrian culture, he was the superior always; the equal rarely; the inferior, never. The ship waited for confirmation to dock somewhere so that the Crown Prince, the Viceroy and their guards could all head to the Gala.

---

After having docked and getting settled, as well as arriving at the main Gala building with their guards, the Crown Prince and Viceroy waved briefly at the various species of the Federation. Crown Prince Victus II was an important figure to the Commonwealth. In fact, he was considered by some in the Commonwealth to be a bit radical; it was rumored that, if and when he took the throne, he would be more open to loosening isolationist policies that had for so long governed the Commonwealth. But, like many of the Imperial Family, as well as many Zhyrrians of the Commonwealth, he had no intention of forfeiting sovereignty. He was a staunch Sovereignist, as Viceroy Remrayed and his father were.

"Presenting, their most supreme excellencies, His Imperial Excellency, the Crown Prince of the Zhyrrian Commonwealth; Heir to the Throne, of the Victus Bloodline, Sir Victus the Second; and, His Regency, the Viceroy of the Commonwealth; one of His Imperial Majesty's Hands, Remrayed the First.", their High Guard announced as they entered the main Gala room. Crown Prince Victus sighed slightly, feeling the tradition was a bit pompous, but saying nothing. Viceroy Remrayed, however, stood straighter, inclining his head just slightly. Zhyrrian body language for superiority when around inferior beings. Despite his Sovereigntist attitude, Remrayed was a known Nationalist and somewhat of a xenophobe. The Zhyrrian Commonwealth's representation had arrived.

[The New Earth Federation]

Tagali Federation Space, Core Region
Todval System, Jakala (Tagali Homeworld)
Jakala planetary ring habitat installation, Chalkuze City



"I hate these things." Said Ji'an Froth Tan, the Khyrsian Councilor of the Outer Arm Region of the Federation. The Gala was in full swing. Representatives of the Federation races and foreign dignitaries had arrived and begun to mingle. Businessmen from both inside the Federation and beyond were present as well, hoping to network for better deals. Musicians from all over the Federation were playing their traditional music for the attendees. Currently, a Dalga Band was playing nomad music from their home world of Matachakia.

"What is this all for, so that The races of the Core Region and the Frontier can flaunt their wealth in front of the Galaxy? Meanwhile I'm being barraged with requests from Thorian Representatives to loosen restrictions on their reproduction and the Vaurians of the Mana Nebula are on the verge of unemployment riots. Even my own Birth World is demanding I do something to deal with the heavy pollution.

"Relax, Honey." Said Chali Twuva, Ji'an's Ariva Wife.

"We are living in a golden age of peace. Such a gathering of people from across the Galaxy would not have been possible in previous generations. In my 5,000 years of being alive, I have seen many things. The Grand Rebellion, the rise of the Confederacy, and it's fall. All have been times of warfare. Besides, it hurts to say, but we are behind the other regions because we are stuck in the old ways. Isolation had made our Confederacy complacent and numb to the happenings of the outside. It should be no surprise that upstarts like the Tagali were able to turn a surprise attack by our arrogant navy and turn it into one of the largest conquests in modern galactic history." Ji'an gave her a quizzical look.

"What are you saying?"

"I'm saying that we can no longer stay the course we are heading. Contrary to what you think, this meeting is not just some decadent display of wealth and glory, but a way to ensure our survival through gaining allies. The Tagali see this, and we must as well." Ji'an thought over his Wife's words as he looked onward towards the gathering of Politicians and Diplomats.

Tagali Federation Space, Core Region, Jakala planetary ring habitat installation, Chalkuze City


After arriving in the Tagali Federation Diplomat John Jacobs and his assistant where suprised and astounded but the advancements that he Tagali have created, however this was all great but they had a job to do and that job was to attend this party and gain allies. Jacobs stepped out of the hover car and walked up the stairs, then his assistant spoke

"Remember sir we are here to-"

"Yea yea, I know what I'm doing. Honestly I hope that this party doesn't go up in flames....literally and figuratively"

"Me to sir"

They continued to walk up the stairs, entered the building, and entered into a large and extravagant room. Inside the room there was a huge amount of people possibly ranging for all corners of Galaxy, Jacobs couldn't believe it there could at least be hundreds or possibly thousands of different cultures, policies, and different government types here.

"Well time to impress the right people" said Jacobs walking into the room, soon followed by his assistant

[The Orson Empire]

Chalsolis, Tagali Federation

After the cluster drone attack, it appeared that many of the Tokad ships survived. The veteran pilots appeared to have experience with this type of tactic, as they quickly maneuvered out of the way and launched swarm missiles to annihilate the drones. The drones of course did not survive, as they were rather flimsy; however, this was only because that they were cheap to produce and could be manufactured in massive quantities. Nevertheless, the attack had succeeded in doing significant damage to the Tokad squadrons; over a quarter of all Maug-Lai pilots had been killed. More fighter-bomber squadrons split off from the main force to engage the enemy bombers attempting to bomb the Covenant ships, while the rest engaged the enemy pilots.

As large dogfights broke out between pilots on both sides, nearby Covenant ships launched another volley of cluster drone missiles; while many of the Tokad ships had survived the first volley, the Covenant ships still had many more missiles that could be deployed. The fighter-bombers also deployed the remaining cluster drone missiles they possessed, and the Covenant pilots moved their ships back as a massive cloud of cluster drones once again engulfed the Tokad squadrons.

The Maug-Lai fleet was now very close to the Covenant ships. Ships on both sides would be crippled and destroyed as they engaged each other with their conventional weaponry. The pilots not engaged in any dogfights noticed enemy mecha suits climbing onto the enemy ships and using their own weaponry to engage the Covenant ships and fighter-bombers. The fighter-bombers would deploy cluster drone missiles onto the mecha suits; once they were distracted, the fighter-bombers would move in for the kill. The point-defense laser cannons had a harder time tracking the remaining Tokad ships due to their erratic movements, but they did their best to protect the Covenant ships. However, it was at this time that the Tokad's began to return to the enemy fleet.

Then, suddenly, the Maug-Lai fleet charged through the Covenant fleet at full speed, while engaging them at the same time. For a short time, the Covenant fleet was thrown into disarray, but quickly moved back into their formations. One of the wing commanders, who was in command of 10 fighter-bomber squadrons, watched as several enemy battlecruisers in particular moved near a Covenant battleship.

"Oh hell, they're gonna surround the admiral's ship!" he would say in his com-links.

A squadron leader replied, saying,"My pilots are running low on fuel, but our squadron was stationed on his battleship." Then, suddenly, large spikes shot out from the battlecruisers, breaking through the energy shields, the armor, and even the hull of the battleship. The ship had attempted to defend itself with its various weaponry, but had been rushed and was now trapped.

"By the Covenant..." the squadron leader said.

The wing commander was in shock, but suddenly, he saw the enemy capital ship and a Covenant frigate moving directly towards him. "Woah!" he shouted as he moved his fighter-bomber out of the way. The enemy ship crashed directly into the frigate and obliterated it.

The wing commander sighed and simply said,"You're going to have to dock on another ship. With the amount of pilots we have lost today, surely they will be able to accommodate your squadron."

---

Iso'ko's battleship had been at the rear of the formation, allowing the admiral to coordinate the battle. The ship occasionally engaged the enemy with its particle lances, and also the few Tokad ships that managed to make it near the battleship. However, the admiral did not expect the enemy battlecruisers to quickly surround the battleship. In the war room, the naval personnel scrambled to coordinate the battleship's attack against the battlecruisers, but it was too late.

The admiral could feel each crash as the the boarding spikes from the battleship plowed through the armor and the hull, allowing Maug-Lai Warriors to stream into the ship, killing anything in sight. The naval personnel abandoned the guns, fleeing for their life; some even ejected themselves from the ship in escape pods.

Some time had passed from the initial panic, and the admiral and everyone else in the war room were suiting up in armor. Iso'ko had armed himself with a pulse cannon, ammunition for the cannon, and a laser pistol. Gunfire could be heard in the distance, as the Maug-Lai Warriors engaged Covenant marines and naval personnel with their plasma rifle, while the personnel fired plasma rounds back at the Maug-Lai with their pulse rifles, pulse SMG's, and pulse LMG's. The doors to the war room were shut, and the secondary blast doors had also been activated to prevent the Maug-Lai from getting through. As all this occurred, some officers on the other side of the room began arguing.

"...none of this would have even happened had you not been on Iso'ko's side!"

"We can't allow these pirate raids to continue! This isn't the first time they have crossed the border-"

"It won't matter once High Command finds out! We will never be able to return to the Covenant!"

They continued yelling at each other until Iso'ko yelled,"Enough!" they quickly quieted down, realizing that the admiral was now irritated.

"I don't give a damn what High Command or the corrupt Reformer regime thinks! The Tagali are so incompetent that they cannot stop well-armed pirates from launching invasions of other nations! The fact that the Tagali continue to allow this is practically an act of war! I am not going to sit back and allow these fuckers to raid innocent settlements while the Reformers sit back and twiddle their fucking thumbs!"

Iso'ko sighed. "Now, we are going out and we are going to repel the boarding parties. We still have enough time- this ship is eight kilometers long, so it will take them a fairly long time to secure it. There is no way out of this now- we will fight to the death."

Iso'ko would open up an emergency exit that led to a hallway below the war room, which the Maug-Lai had not breached yet. As everyone in the room entered the hallway, one of the officers in the back would whisper,"The admiral is truly a madman."

Another officer would whisper,"Follow me. When he is least aware, we will split off and head to the escape pods."