Across the Stars (FT, Nation Rp, IC)

[Alinora]

- ATLAS -

---

Klandulor | Klandul System | Cho'Dosan Covenant Space
Unit X5-79

Klandulor... capital of the Cho'Dosan Covenant - the prominent rivals of the Tagali. The planet was a large, green world peppered in grey metropolitan expanses, for the Cho'Dosan had paced their development of their homeworld, unlike Humans on Earth, who trampled over everything that stood in the way of it's cities. The Covenant had always been... distant from many Humans, with Atlas always being reluctant to cooperate with them directly, but as the organization's conflict with the Tagali Empire raged on, it became more desperate for powerful, and reliable, friends. Unit designation X5-79, a Synth Agent created by Atlas to infiltrate the various nations of the Galaxy, walked through the bustling streets of Klandulor's government district in black robes. X5-79 was unique because he maintained the ability to shapeshift - able to make himself appear Cho'Dosan, Tagali, or Human. In his Cho'Dosan form, he climbed the steps into the capital building, ignoring the guards, and entered the main room.

The first thing he noticed were the flags - much like Earth, Klandulor is ruled by a number of countries, and in this room, all of their flags were displayed to give equal representation. With a stone cold, emotionless face, the Agent approached the reception desk and stared past it's Cho'Dosan secretary - speaking with a cold voice. "I wish to speak to your assembly on matters of full confidence."

---

Deep Space | Milky Way Galaxy
Commander Daniel Maxson

...

"We've sustained heavy damage! If we don't jump now, we won't get another chance!"

Commander Maxson could hear the shouting coming from the Captain of one of the QRF Destroyers as he and the rest of his squad boarded their shuttle. From what he could hear, things weren't going well. "Layman, inform the AV Ghanta that they have permission to retreat from the system - the rest of the QRF is to pull back into secondary defensive positions. Get some god damn fire on this cruiser!" Daniel sat down, securing himself in his seat, and moments later, the shuttle broke off from the Tagali vessel. The Atlas shuttles made their way back towards the Epsilon, which was still cloaked, despite taking significant enemy fAA fire. When his shuttle docked, Maxson was the first to jump off - taking off his helmet and rushing to the Bridge despite still wearing his shredded armor, and suffering severe gashes across his chest.

Daniel was hardly on the Bridge for three seconds before he began shouting. "Power up the Promethean and hit that Battle Cruiser's engines!" The Epsilon dropped it's cloaks, appearing far from the field of battle, but directly in-range of the Tagali cruiser's engines. A black beam of energy shot shook the Epsilon, tearing into the rear engines of the Tagali battlecruiser. Creating a series of scrambled magnetic fields, the target would be torn apart at a molecular level - the impact hopefully shaking the ship up enough to buy the QRF time to retreat. One by one, the Destroyers peeled away at FTL, travelling to the opposite side of the system before opening Wormholes and entering slip-space, then closing them behind them. The Epsilon was the last to go, entering it's own wormhole, and leaving a battlefield behind it...

[Chronodosia]

Stormcrag, Stormcrag system, Milky way
Storm Emperor John Storm
Lightning Guard Training grounds Storm Palace

Standing on a open balcony in Lightning Guard armor and attaching a Marksman Railrifle to his back, flanked by two Storm Shields with Assault Railrifles, stands the Storm Emperor, John Storm. John is watching his Lightning Guard drill in their new armor and getting comfortable flying in the armor. John, having already done this, is staring at them while thinking. John turns around and walks to a ring of consoles surrounding a holographic display as four Stormwing's enter the room. The four men, The Lightning Marshal is the first man in and he is the Storm Shields commander. The Storm Admiral is the second man in and is the commander of all Storm Empire Naval Forces. The Storm Marshal is the third man in and is the commander of the Storm Guards. The last man in is The Silent Storm, and is the Chief Intelligence Officer of the Storm Empire. John turns to the Storm Shields in the room and says, "A War meeting is about to begin, leave us and seal the room."

The Storm Shields nod, bring their right arms to their hearts and bow to John and walk out on to the balcony then closing the doors. John taps a command into the console in-front of him and blast shutters slam down over the windows and doors. John turns to Silent Storm and says, "Arnes bring up the map."

Silent Storm nods and taps in a few commands and the Holographic Display changes from a map of the world, fed from orbital communications satellites, to a remote section of mountain in the Ardesinat Mountains. John taps a command and the view magnifies showing a small camp and a path leading to a cleverly concealed bunker in the mountain. John says, "This is the rebel training camp and the rebel command bunker five miles away. We have identified several more rebel bunkers in different sectors. The camp and command bunker is in sector H3. The other bunkers including two hangers are in sectors A5, B9, D7, and E10. The hangers are in sectors J7 and L5. The bunker in D7 is underground across the street from the local Storm Guard recruitment station."

The Lightning Marshal says, "You have the 1st Storm Shields turned Lightning Guards but I can have the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Storm Shields ready to take the camp, the command bunker, and the hangers in 72 hours."

The Storm Marshal says, "We can have the 1st Storm Guards ready to take the bunker in A5, the 2nd Storm Guards on the bunker in B9 and the 3rd on the bunker in E10."

The Storm Admiral says, "The Storm Navy can supply several squadrons of Lightning's from the Arc class Carrier 'Storm Fury'."

John says , "The Lightning Guard will be good to fight in 72 hours. we will take the Command bunker and the bunker in sector D7. Marshal Azom I want you to send the 1st Company of the 2nd Storm Shields to take the rebel training camp then send them back to the 2nd. I want the 2nd to join the 4th in the assault on the hanger in L5 and I want the 3rd to assault the hanger in J7. I want 8 squadrons of Lightning's Admiral Isen, four over each hanger. Marshal Astas send the preparatory orders to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Storm Guards. I want everyone ready to go in 72 hours. Marshal's, Admiral please remind your troopers of the 48 hour Bottle to Throttle rule please. The last operation I took part in we were all drunk as skunks and didn't lose anyone but it was freaky. Dismissed gentlemen."

John finishes his orders and taps a few commands releasing the lock down on the room and then walks back out to the balcony and jumps from the balcony wings spread. John locks his wings and spirals down to the Lightning Guard training ground. John makes a fast landing and rolls and comes up running and joins the Lightning Guard in their formation run, in the center of the formation.

[Labstoska]

High above Horus
Alpha seuden system
British Expeditionary fleet
Lord Admiral Alfred Williams dug his fingers into the armrests of his command chair. This person was quite clearly mocking him, the thought that someone had the gaul to insult him, he almost wanted to order the fleet to fire on them this instant however he knew that their fleet was stronger than his by tenfold and from there they would most likely move on to destroy the entire empire so now was the time for diplomacy.

"This is lord admiral Alfred Williams and on behalf of the British empire I am able to say that we have no hostile intent against you or any of your people, we were not aware that we were encroaching upon your territory and we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience we may have caused."

Hopefully they would accept his apology and the expeditionary fleet could get on with conquering this blasted planet also perhaps he should contact Trappist-1 and ask for them to start producing 10 new Windsor class ships because if this is what they use for first encounters than whatever they had as a main battle fleet could probably wipe the empire of the map in about a week or so.
Draconis system
the AV Imperium
Thank god they had landed on the Atlas ship, the shuttle wasn't that of the finest quality it was mainly meant for newcomer's who didn't require the same basic needs as humans did, the primary one being comfort. The hatch to the side of the shuttle opened and a ladder extended downwards, dame Amelia Harris stepped to the hatch and looked out "my god that's a lot of synths" she muttered under her breath as she climbed out. Hopefully Atlas always required more or her plan to have British factories produce them would fall flat on it's face. She walked up to admiral Rylech (what an odd name) and greeted him.

[The Moscow Metro Red Line]

"The Mogh'Keigh are the greatest warriors and the greatest messengers of the Exalted Ones. They are the example to which the faithful shall stand. Their words carry the most insightful of meanings. Their actions speak the greatest for the Exalted Ones. Their devotion is as limitless as the universe itself. They are the second most important figures of the faith. Just behind the Prophets who are behind the Exalted Ones." - The Book of the Prophet Tulerens. The Kirnleth, 13th Translation

---

The Ascent of the Exalted - Nullem - Kanem System - The Enclave
The Holy System of Kanem is one of the most heavily guarded and famous systems of the Enclave. It is known as the spiritual heart of the Enclave. Traffic into the system is heavily restricted due to the influx of pilgrims into the system. In the Zaron faith, this system was where the gods first appeared to the mortal plane and extolled their teachings. This planet was the home of the first Prophet of Zaron, Meerpsy, and where he began his ministry and teaching the Zaron to the rest of the universe. Because of its sacredness, only followers of Zaron are allowed into the system. Nonbelievers are not allowed to enter the system and pilgrimages must be planned months or even years in advance before they are allowed. But despite these travel restrictions, there always seems to be an endless stream of pilgrims come into and out of the city. These pilgrims yearn to the holiest place as spoken in the Kirnleth. Even with this immense traffic, crime rates in the system are the lowest in the entire Enclave.

The architecture of the planet blended well with the natural surroundings. The planet was ecologically healthy with lush forests and blue waters. The residents of the planet are friendly to the pilgrims and provide whatever they lacked on their journey. They willingly share their homes and their food. Their generosity was legendary throughout the Enclave. If there was a word to describe Kanem it would be paradise.

Of course there was a much darker side to this heaven. This system is the true capital of the Enclave. This system is where the real seat of power was in the Enclave. This system is where the endless schemes and strategy are formed by the Menkalith. Most of the residents of this system are Exodites in disguise. They are the vendors on the street. They are the engineers working daily in the city. They are the custom officials who check each pilgrim. They are the priests who minister to the flock. They are everywhere.

In the higher levels of the building known was the Ascent of the Exalted, the religious site where the Exalted Ones returned to their heavenly plane after their first appearance to the people, a small meeting was taking place. In a small study room, was a robbed Zaron priest and a pilgrim. The two sat close to each other on the smooth tiled floor. "My child, my child ..." spoke the Zaron Priest in a soothing voice. "What is your name?"

The pilgrim in front of him was a member of the Efferlith species. He wore the robes of an Efferlith fashion. "Pech Orna'xo, your holiness." The Efferlith replied and bowed. "It is the greatest of honors to be called into the presence of a Prophet."

"Indeed it is." Replied the Zaron Priest who reached over to his companion. "Pech Oran'xo, was it? One of the members of the Circle. It is good that you have made this pilgrimage. Even politicians must have spiritual rest."

"Of course." The Efferlith replied and then adjusted his sitting posture.

"Close your eyes my child. I shall give you my blessing for your grand work for the Enclave." The Zaron Priest said and then placed his hand on the Efferlith's head.

"Yes, of course Prophet." The Efferlith replied and closed his eyes. As he did this, the Zaron Priest's hand suddenly contorted and elongated, moving slowly through the Efferlith's ear. The Priest began chanting and the Efferlith suddenly opened his eyes as he felt something strange in this head. As he tried to get up, the Zaron Priest merely used his other hand to hold him down. The Efferlith struggled to get up and the Priest continued to chant. The Efferlith suddenly stopped moving and fell to the ground, a steam of bluish-purple blood coming from his ear. The finger of the Priest retracted with blood visible at the end. He then stood up, his whole cloak began to move around abnormally and his rotated his head around and around. This process lasted for fifteen seconds and then the Priest stood still. He reached over his head and removed the helmet of his robe. As he did this, his face was revealed to be identical to that of the now dead Efferlith.

Just then the door opened and another Zaron Priest with similar robes walked in. "You know your mission. I'll dispose of this body. Take his clothing and continue your pilgrimage." He commanded. "It is a shame that he was chosen. But sacrifices must be made to ensure the continuity of the Enclave."

The Zaron Priest now began removing its robes and revealed itself as an Efferlith. He began stripping the corpse and placing its clothing on himself.

"Stay here for a few minutes so that his memories can be fully absorbed into your brain. Take as much time as you need, Councilor Pech Oran'xo." The other Zaron Priest said mockingly and laughed.

"Of course, Prophet." The Zaron Priest replied in the dead Efferlith's voice and pronunciation. "It is the greatest of honors to be called into the presence of a Prophet."

[Alinora]

...

"Welcome aboard" Admiral Rylech said, nodding to the British delegation and motioning towards the exit to the hanger. He would lead them past the columns of Synths, into a large hallway - speaking as they made their way to the meeting room. "This vessel, as you likely know, is a Dreadnought - famous and infamous, depending on who you ask." He looked back with a smirk before continuing to walk. "It's Hull alone is constructed from Sceren Titanium - a very rare, very durable metal only found on the Atlas-controlled world known as Tyccus. The vessel is equipped with highly advanced, self-regenerating shield systems, and as far as weaponry goes..." he chuckled, "let's just say, she can hold her own in battle, and then some."

Admiral Rylech would then lead the British representatives into a small room with a round table in the center, the first noticeable being the man, who stood emotionless in his black robes. "Please," the Admiral said, "be seated."

"Allow me to introduce myself" the man in the robes said with a calm, almost-fake voice. "I am K9-45, here today under the orders of Sovereign himself to represent him, and make decisions on his behalf. I am sorry to say that you will not be directly dealing with the Admiral, but with me."

Admiral Rylech nodded before taking a seat. "Yes, I am only here to oversee things."

"Now," K9-45 said, "where would you like to begin?"

[Ormata]

Alpha Seuden System, High Orbit Above Horus
Negy-04 Expeditionary Fleet, ANV-Troga’Maxi’Doru
Contested Space

"This is lord admiral Alfred Williams and on behalf of the British empire I am able to say that we have no hostile intent against you or any of your people, we were not aware that we were encroaching upon your territory and we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience we may have caused."

The Admiral almost wished to sigh. Introducing oneself twice? That was a strange action to be sure, and not one she expected. Perhaps a small memory issue. He enjoyed stating that his actions were upon the behalf of the British Empire, though, and yet the Lord Admiral did not seem to have the straight-backed professionalism of the British they spoke of, of old. In those days, before the advent of the missile and before the advent of the warp engine, those days when humanity laid spread upon earth in a hundred different governments, in those days, Admiral Harma knew of the British. In those days, they held dominion over the ocean, for a time, and in those days the British Monarchy’s authority was not to be questioned.

It was in this form that they enjoyed, at times, frightening the children or making fun of the actions. The British were a dead threat, in most minds, a dead empire with a dead queen over a planet not now theirs. They had their chance, so long ago, and faded-away. Yet this Lord Admiral never was seeming to take-on that guise, that guise of the arrogant leader. Odd. The Admiral’s mind searched for a reason, before coming-upon the most simple one; he was afraid of her fleet. What a cute little response from a tiny man, he was afraid! For someone stating they worked upon the authority of the British Empire, he was scared of her and scared of what she might do. Cute, said one part of her mind. Pitiful, said the other.

“Very well. Your presence is required upon my vessel, Lord Admiral. Come aboard.”

And with that, the comm channel was broken.

[The Orson Empire]

The first thing he noticed were the flags - much like Earth, Klandulor is ruled by a number of countries, and in this room, all of their flags were displayed to give equal representation. With a stone cold, emotionless face, the Agent approached the reception desk and stared past it's Cho'Dosan secretary - speaking with a cold voice. "I wish to speak to your assembly on matters of full confidence."

Klandulor, Klandul System

Klandulor was the capital of the Covenant, located in the Klandul System at the heart of the Covenant. The system was not apart of any sector, and was instead organized into a district ruled directly by the Assembly of Nations. Klandulor had a population of 10 billion people, mostly concentrated into the various megacities scattered across the planet; surprisingly, Klandulor's population was the lowest it had been in many centuries, as much of the Cho'Dosan population had left their homeworld to settle the thousands of colonies under Covenant control. In orbit around Klandulor was its only moon, Klandar, which had a population of 1 billion people and contain a large industrial sector (including several orbital shipyards, used for the construction of civilian and military vessels); additionally, hundreds of military and civilian stations and satellites orbited Klandulor, with populations in the millions.

From orbit, one could see that Klandulor still contained a significant amount of forests, despite millennia of industrial development. Many cities had been destroyed during the Zorgon War in the 14th century, and much of Klandulor had to be rebuilt from scratch. During the reconstruction process, large swaths of the planet were designated as nature reserves in order to prevent the entire biosphere from being bulldozed over and developed on during the centuries. Much of Klandulor's natural resources had already been depleted (resulting in many resources being brought in from off-world), which also helped to slow down environmental degradation.

The capital district was located in an isolated part of Klandulor, near a nature reserve. The district contained the Grand Complex, where delegates from the various sectors and other administrative districts that made up the Covenant convened in the Assembly of Nations, as well as the Hall of Justice (the headquarters of the Covenant High Court), the Directorial Palace (which contained living quarters for the Director and other high-ranking government officials), and many other government and civilian buildings. The Grand Complex itself is a large, circular building; the Assembly meets in the central convocation chamber in the inner ring, and dozens of offices are located on the mezzanine and the rest of the outer ring.

The Assembly was not currently in session, so the halls of the Grand Complex were relatively quite, save for some government officials who were there on business. Despite this, the guards surrounding the main entrance of the building did not ask for the credentials of the Atlas android that made its way inside. Wearing black robes and with the appearance of a Cho'Dosan official, it fit right in to the environment. Due to the relatively slow day at the Complex, the guards were too busy shooting the breeze with each other to care anyway.

A female Cho'Dosan secretary, sitting at one of the several help desks scattered throughout the outer ring, watched as the "Cho'Dosan" approached it. As it spoke, she realized something was...off about this person. The way it spoke in the Cho'Dosan language sounded...manufactured. The fact that it wished to speak to the entire Assembly was odd, seeing as the Assembly was not even in session at the time, and the fact that most visitors simply requested directions to a certain office or other area of the building. Furthermore, she could not sense the natural psionic "aura" that surrounded all Cho'Dosans (due to the fact that the Cho'Dosans were very psionic-sensitive). Something was definitely very wrong with this man.

She had her left hand under her desk, ready to press the panic button underneath her computer and signal security if necessary. "May I please see your credentials?" She asked calmly.

[Alinora]

She had her left hand under her desk, ready to press the panic button underneath her computer and signal security if necessary. "May I please see your credentials?" She asked calmly.

The Agent reached into his jacket, pulling out papers and handing them to the woman. They were fully legitimate credentials from a completely fictional citizen of the Cho'Dosan Covenant. He stood still, crossing his arms behind his back, and spoke again. "Is there a problem? I don't believe my request was unreasonable."

[Vogega]

Asteroid 546-6878-17
The bounty hunter peered into the abandoned mining base on the asteroid's surface. Despite all of the advances in robotic technologies, some people still insisted on building mining bases on asteroids and then using Markan miners to mine them. His ghoulish helmet blended into the flat gray of the asteroid to anyone who happened to glance out of the base. No sign of life. The foot prints clearly led to the entrance of the building, but no one could be seen inside. Had they already left? The bounty hunter was preparing to turn back and enter the building when a tapping was felt on his shoulder. He turned and saw two of the rebels he was hired to kill. The one who was closer, the one who was backing up after tapping his soldiers gestured with the barrel of his gun from the bounty hunter's head, to the ground. He repeated the gesture several times.
Obviously, he was telling the bounty hunter to get on his knees, orders being difficult to give without atmosphere or comms. The bounty hunter slowly nodded and started to fall to his knees, but as soon as his knees hit the asteroid, his pistols spring fired themselves into his hands and each fired on shot. The rounds blasted through the vacuum suits that the rebels wore and red strings of blood floated out the back of their heads. Their heads went down and back while their legs remained stationary; their magnetic boots keeping them attached to the asteroid.
The bounty hunter put his pistols back in his holsters and entered the mining base. Upon entering, he found that the building was also deserted, scuffle marks remained in the middle while foot prints marked the floor. Then, he heard creaking sound. He turned up the volume and the vibrations travelling through the asteroid amplified. Heard, very faintly, voices.
"Did they get him?"
"I don't know. They haven't responded."
"I am going to check it out."
"NO!"
The bounty hunter could hear scrambling. He reached to his belt and pulled out a needle grenade. The trap door swung open and the bounty hunter saw two rebels. One was holding the others leg. He rolled in the grenade and stomped down on the trap door. Frantic pounding ensued and then with a muffle WHUMP it stopped. He swung open the door and saw the mess that the grenade had created. Each of the two rebels was no longer identifiable, but as he moved further into the asteroid, he came upon others. The needle fragments bounced around inside the enclosed area and spread itself all over the room and its occupants. He scanned the room. He saw one rebel desperately trying to hold his guts in with his upper set of arms, while the other four scrambled around for the ones on the ground. Two more rebels lay still with one covered in spikes in the torso, and the other with only one going directly into her eye socket. Another rebel, this one human, cried out in pain as his arms were both impaled into the wall by the force of the spikes. The bounty hunter walked over.
"Help," whispered the wounded rebel.
The bounty hunter didn't reply and pulled out of of his pistols. With one shot, he killed the pinned rebel. He turned back to the Markan looking for his organs. The man was just laying there. He was dead. To make sure, the bounty hunter put a round into every single rebels' head no matter how wounded they were. With his grim task done, he jetpacked back to his ship where he provided the images of the bodies to claim the bounty on the rebels' heads.

Azer IX
Azer IX is an almost habitable world on the edges of Confederacy space. The probe came flying through the atmosphere of the planet and crashed with very little impact after a massive deceleration burn into a large flat grassland. It separated to reveal a small sphere with large multi-jointed limbs sticking off of it. It rose to a height of 5 meters and then started to scoop out the earth until it reached rock. There, drills formed on the bottom and it burrowed through it scanning for a vein of metal it could use to make a factory. Once enough materials were gathered, a small worker drone was built that started to assemble the refined material that the probe ejected as it burrowed through the ground. On the surface of the planet, a small building rose that created more bots that then created more factories. Those then created terraforming equipment that would then begin to terrafrom the planet over the span of hundreds of years. There was an effective limit of terraforming at which point adding more machines did little to help. Once the buildings were set up, the drones and probe gathered in a warehouse to await the orders to tear down the equipment to make room for living space.

[Tagali Federation]

Commander Maxson could hear the shouting coming from the Captain of one of the QRF Destroyers as he and the rest of his squad boarded their shuttle. From what he could hear, things weren't going well. "Layman, inform the AV Ghanta that they have permission to retreat from the system - the rest of the QRF is to pull back into secondary defensive positions. Get some god damn fire on this cruiser!" Daniel sat down, securing himself in his seat, and moments later, the shuttle broke off from the Tagali vessel. The Atlas shuttles made their way back towards the Epsilon, which was still cloaked, despite taking significant enemy fAA fire. When his shuttle docked, Maxson was the first to jump off - taking off his helmet and rushing to the Bridge despite still wearing his shredded armor, and suffering severe gashes across his chest.

Daniel was hardly on the Bridge for three seconds before he began shouting. "Power up the Promethean and hit that Battle Cruiser's engines!" The Epsilon dropped it's cloaks, appearing far from the field of battle, but directly in-range of the Tagali cruiser's engines. A black beam of energy shot shook the Epsilon, tearing into the rear engines of the Tagali battlecruiser. Creating a series of scrambled magnetic fields, the target would be torn apart at a molecular level - the impact hopefully shaking the ship up enough to buy the QRF time to retreat. One by one, the Destroyers peeled away at FTL, travelling to the opposite side of the system before opening Wormholes and entering slip-space, then closing them behind them. The Epsilon was the last to go, entering it's own wormhole, and leaving a battlefield behind it...

On the Bridge of the Battle Cruiser, the crew finally relaxed as they watched the Atlas ships retreat into the void. Behind Vasili, a Holographic interface showing each ship along with a portrait of their Ship Master, appeared. Each Commander gave the status of their ship. The fleet had sustained heavy damage, but had given Atlas hell. One of the Ship Master's spoke up.

"Should we pursue? It will take time, but we can triangulate their exit location."

"No," Vasili ordered. "Our ships are too badly damaged and we do not know what's on the other side. We'll pull back to the Citadel and repair. Know this Comrades, Atlas will pay for what they've done here today." The remaining ships of the Patrol fleets had enough combat for one day, positioned themselves for FTL jumps, and began their journey back to friendly territory.

---

Tagali Empire, Todval System
Jakala - Tagali Homeworld
Selkuze Province - House Shakan Complex


Night had descended over the Desert City of Selkuze, strategically founded by the Tagali ancients on top of a mesa, unassailable by giant reptillian wormlike creatures that moved about the sand as if it was water, as well as invading Tagali hordes of Jakala's past. Unlike the Vast mountain cities of the North, and the large sprawling floating cities of the island provinces, Selkuze never boasted a large population. Selkuze and other cities of the Selkuze desert province usually only numbered in the in the hundreds of thousands, with Selkuze, the largest of the cities, only having a population of 3 Million. On the fringes of the Mesa, far away from most of the smaller house complexes and markets, lied the House Complex of House Shakan, the Rulers of the Selkuze Province. Since the dawn of the Tagali Empire, House Shakan has ruled the Selkuze Desert, treating many of it's natives with respect, from the Hunters and Warriors defending the Mesa strongholds from the dangerous wildlife, the builders and farmers who built the infrastructure to support them, to even the few desert nomad bands remaining even in the spacefaring age, a group often persecuted by previous rulers of the Selkuze. It had just turned Midnight over the Selkuze. Many had already gone to sleep, save for the House Guard and the Head of House Shakan and his Grandson, gazing out to the Stars.

"Which one's that?" Said Kelmin Sel-Shakan, the young four year old Grandson of Hamin Re-Shakan, Head of House Shakan. He was pointing off to a faint star in the sky. Hamin had done the same with his father, as he had done with his. Members of House Shakan had always taken an interest in astronomy, using it as a guide home when out hunting in the desert. When the Tagali took to the stars, the night sky became a tapestry of past battles and glory, as well as a memorial to those lost. Hamin looked over towards the star Kelmin was pointing, quickly recalling it's name and the historical significance of it.

"That is the Il'fe System, home of the Makum. Our Ancestor, Ulana El-Shakan led our our House and Tagali Forces to glory there during the Makum Rebellion. It is said She killed over a thousand Rebels and forced them back into the Empire." Kelmin quickly pointed towards another star, a small red dot in the distance. Hamin chuckled.

"You know that one, Little Prakshi. That is Sol, Home of the Humans. Your Great Grandfather was apart of the Subjugation of the Humans. He is responsible for the conquest of a landmass the Humans call "Australia." Kelmin looked up in astonishment.

"Is that where Uncle Vasili is from?" Hamin chuckled again.

"No, Little One. Vasili is from that system." Hamin said, pointing to another farther off than the others.

"That is Hansh, or as the Humans call it, Barnard's Star. There once was a Human Colony there, but no one lives there anymore. I'll tell you about that one when you're older."

"What's that one?" Hamin's face suddenly filled with sorrow. Kelmin was pointing towards the Januze System. The place, where Hamin's Eldest and only Biological Child, as well as Kelmin's Father, died. Before Hamin could answer, a servant from a Client House of Shakan came strolled over with an urgent message.

"Forgive my intrusion, Leader Hamin." Hamin patted Kelmin on the back.

"That will be all for tonight, go run to your Mother." Kelmin hugged his Grand Father before scampering off to his room. Hamin's attention returned to the Servant, standing up and dusting off his clothes.

"What is it?"

"Vasili is hailing us. He wishes to speak with you."

"Tell him I'm on my way." Hamin wallked back to the Compound, Only the light of the stars and dim lights from within houses and rooms lit the way. Hamin walked into a room full of circuits and a projector like device. Hamin stood on a round metal device. He typed into a holographic keyboard with the Tagali standard Alphabet. Before him, appeared a hologram of Vasili, his adopted Son.

"Good to see you, Vasili. How goes the hunt?" Vasili smiled.

"Good to see you Father, but I wish I was hailing you with better news. We have found no Human settlements in this sector, and to make matters worse, we were attacked." Hamin was stunned.

"You carry the Banner of an Imperial Noble House. Who would be foolish enough to risk the ire of reprisal from the Tagali Empire?"

"Atlas," Vasili replied plainly. "My fleet has taken casualties and heavy damage. We're returning to one of House Yezvha's ports for repairs."

"Alright then. I'll spread the message to the rest of our forces beyond our borders to be cautious."

"What of the Empress, surely an insult just as this cannot go unpunished."

"Don't be wreckless. We've fought Atlas before and they have proved a threat not to be taken lightly. But I agree. I will venture to the Capital in the morning and meet with the Empress. Once repairs are made, return home."

"Of course Father." Vasili was about to log off before Hamin stopped him.

"Wait, Son. Remember Vasili, Vengeance is your to take, but don't let it blind you to obvious mistakes."

"I won't Father."

"Good. I will speak with you soon."

---

The Viceroyalty of the Citadel (Greater Tagali Space)
Yezvha System
Vasili's Patrol Fleet


Hours later, Vasili's Patrol Fleet arrived at the edge of the Yezvha System, the Capital of the Viceroyalty of the Citadel. The Citadel was seen as a prize to the rest of the Empire. Thousands of Tagali warriors and ships were lost to the original Human Defenders. Just as so many other Human Settlements however, it fell to Tagali might, serving as a lesson to all enemies of the Empire that no matter how long they hold out, all fall to the Empire in time. In the past, Many other Houses were offended that the descendants of Yezvha would allow non Tagali higher status in their territory; but with the ascension of Empress Yaliza and with her acceptance of greater xeno self-rule within her Empire, few were willing to speak out against a House that had the Empress's support. Vasili hailed the Local Space Ports.

"This is Ship Master Vasili Re-Shakan of House Shakan. Our ships are heavily damaged and need repairs. Requesting permission to dock." Vasili waited for a reply.

[The Orson Empire]

She had her left hand under her desk, ready to press the panic button underneath her computer and signal security if necessary. "May I please see your credentials?" She asked calmly.

The Agent reached into his jacket, pulling out papers and handing them to the woman. They were fully legitimate credentials from a completely fictional citizen of the Cho'Dosan Covenant. He stood still, crossing his arms behind his back, and spoke again. "Is there a problem? I don't believe my request was unreasonable."

The secretary looked at his credentials. Everything appeared to be in order regarding whether or not he was an actual Cho'Dosan citizen, but there was nevertheless still something that was not right about this man.

"Unreasonable?" she replied. "Well, you wish to speak to the Assembly, despite the fact that the Assembly is not even in session, and your credentials do not state that you are an MA (OOC: Member of Assembly). How did you even get in here past the guards?"

Then, from down the hall, five assembly guards, dressed in their black uniforms and wielding Standard Issue Laser Cannons.

"Sir, you may come with us," one of the guards says. "Director Av'Lya has been expecting you. We will take you up to the Director's Suite."

[Alinora]

"Sir, you may come with us," one of the guards says. "Director Av'Lya has been expecting you. We will take you up to the Director's Suite."

The Agent would nod to the security guards, turning to the secretary and giving a sly smile, before proceeding to follow them. He maintained his emotionless expression, being careful not to make any sudden movements that would spook them - even though he was fully confident that his Psionic abilities far outmatched theirs. As they stepped onto the elevator, he would stare directly at the elevator doors, but speak. "When we arrive, I would like a few moments alone with the Director. I assure you, I am not armed."

[Alinora]

- ATLAS -

---

( Orion, Atlas' Headquarters located near the Galactic Core )

Orion | Unknown System | Core Region
Commander Daniel Maxson

The heart of Humanity's fight for independence was always bustling - indeed a city that never slept, and Daniel wouldn't have had it any other way. After docking and bringing his report to Lt. Admiral Davis, he would make his way to his personal vehicle - taking the air traffic-ways down the 2nd Wing - admiring the city around him as he went. The high-rises, the traffic, the businesses and offices, they all resonated with Daniel - they were just a small taste of what Atlas hoped to accomplish - a nation by Humanity, for Humanity. He considered it a shame that more people didn't have the privilege to live on Orion, at peace, where the threat of Tagali oppression was, truly, non-existent. Being privileged enough to live here only strengthened his resolve, and made him more willing to fight to ensure that all of Humanity had a better future.

In his Corvega Air Speeder, Daniel began the gradual ascent towards the top of one of the 2nd Wing's tallest towers. He pressed a small button on the speeder's control console, which opened a small port on the side of the building that served as his garage - bring his speeder to a gradual stop inside. For a few moments, he sat in his speeder with a blank stare - finding himself overcome with thoughts - especially of the last mission. He always wondered where, exactly, those that he captured went - probably off to prison and work facilities, or maybe to serve as test subjects. He understood why, but sometimes, he felt the tiniest bit guilty that his actions would lead another being to become the subject of some experiment. He shook those thoughts away, opening the door to the speeder and climbing out. He opened the door to his apartment, hanging up the keys to the speeder on a ring right near the door, and taking a deep sigh of relief as he knew it: he was home at last. Just moments later, he could hear the rumble of footsteps from around the corner and down the hall - his daughter, Samantha "Daddy!!" a young girl's voice shouted - coming around the corner at just two or so feet tall, and running towards him. Daniel scooped her up in his arms and gave her a kiss on the forehead, then pulling her close for a hug.

"Baby girl, I missed you" he said, watching as her mother Millie came around the corner and leaned against the wall with folded arms and a smile. "It's lonely on that ship with a bunch of Synths, ya know."

"They're nice!" Sam said with a bright, missing-toothed smile. "The one that cleans our house brings treats sometimes!"

"Well that's nice of it" Daniel responded, giving Sam a kiss on the cheek before setting her down. "Why don't you give mom and dad a sec, alright?" The young girl would run off, down the hall, and Daniel would slowly begin walking towards his wife. "Like I said, it gets veeerrry lonely on a ship with only a handful of Humans..." The two embraced in a kiss, which lasted a few seconds, before Daniel pulled away and grabbed her hand instead. "I missed you" he said, almost hurt by the memory of the loneliness.

"I missed you too" she replied, "but your home now..." her eyes looked down, and her voice became soft and hurt. "...for now at least."

"You know I want to be here, Millie" Daniel said, gripping her hand tighter. "But I have other responsibilities - we're at war. It might seem peaceful here, but we're a rare exception - entire worlds lie in ruin because of the Tagali-"

"You don't think I remember, back on Earth?" Millie snapped. Daniel looked down for a moment, sighing, before looking back up to her.

"I'm sorry. Sometimes I forget that you were there too-"

"-and I remember every gruesome detail." She let go of his hand, walking through the living room to the balcony. Daniel followed, wrapping his arms around her, and locking them at her waist.

"I'm on leave for the next few days - figured we could spend them together, as a family. Maybe go see a movie, or play some mini-golf - anything." Millie was silent, almost as if she was shunning him. "Millie, I'm really trying-"

"Well stop trying!" she snapped, pulling away from him, "and start being a father. I don't need you to tell me these things - to make these promises to me. You need to tell them to your daughter, and you need to mean them. She hardly sees you anymore, Danny... I hardly see you." Daniel could see her eyes glisten as tears formed. Daniel looked down at his feet, and then out off the balcony - towards the rest of Orion, and the Inner Ring. Under different circumstances, he would compliment the view as he'd done countless times before.

"Millie, we knew what coming to Atlas would entail - they need me to be ready, and able, to fight at any time." He shook his head. "I can't be held back by my family."

"Oh well I'm so sorry" she said sarcastically, "I don't mean to hold you back from your wonderful military career, Daniel.
What's the prize at the end, do you get to pick out your own coffin? Give me a break..."

"Millie, stop." Daniel said firmly, his tone almost angry.

"I don't even know why we bother sometimes - just along for the ride until end up dead in some ditch somewhere, in some random world thousands of light-years away..."

"We knew the risks, Millie" Daniel said, "we signed on for it knowing this."

"Maybe we did, but Sam didn't!" Millie yelled back. "She didn't sign on for anything, Danny, and because of us she might end up without a father."

Daniel bawled his fist and pursed his lips, but wouldn't let his anger get the best of him. "Have a little god damn faith." Daniel stormed away, walking back towards the door, grabbing his keys and swinging the door open. Before closing the door, he looked back to Millie. "And you wonder why I keep going back." He slammed the door, and left the apartment. Maybe some drinks would calm him down.

[The Orson Empire]

"Sir, you may come with us," one of the guards says. "Director Av'Lya has been expecting you. We will take you up to the Director's Suite."

The Agent would nod to the security guards, turning to the secretary and giving a sly smile, before proceeding to follow them. He maintained his emotionless expression, being careful not to make any sudden movements that would spook them - even though he was fully confident that his Psionic abilities far outmatched theirs. As they stepped onto the elevator, he would stare directly at the elevator doors, but speak. "When we arrive, I would like a few moments alone with the Director. I assure you, I am not armed."

"You'll have all the time you need. As I said, we've been expecting you," the same guard replied.

Director's Suite, Grand Complex

The Director's Suite was the official office of all Directors of the Covenant, and had been the place where Director Asir Av'Lya had conducted much of his work for the past 12 years. It contained a main office (where meetings were held), a private study, bathroom and shower, and even a small bedroom (this was used on the busiest of occasions, when Av'Lya had to sleep overnight at the Complex in order to quickly finish his work the next day). His office and study were rather cluttered, containing several bookshelves full of physical books and physical documents (a rare sight in the Covenant due to most written works being fully digital), two desktop computers, two holoprojectors, a full wardrobe, and a myriad of expensive furniture and other decorations he had acquired over the course of his directorship. The inside was painted in red and black to symbolize the colors of the Covenant flag.

The Suite was buried deep within the center of the Grand Complex, and was constructed of relatively thick armor. Fresh air could be pumped solely into the room from a series of connected pipes in the event it had to be cut off from the rest of the building (such as during a war), and it even contained its own energy shield generator. Cameras were present, and the room contained several sensors that could detect the presence of anyone who was cloaked. The Suite contained several panic buttons and other secure methods of contacting security in the event of an emergency, and there was even a secret tunnel that connected to the Suite that the Director could use to escape the building if absolutely necessary.

From his computers, the Director had access to all of the security cameras in the Grand Complex, and often used them to see when important dignitaries were arriving. Asir had been expecting a meeting with Atlas soon, and knew that based on their conduct and his studies of the organization, they would likely send some sort of agent for their negotiations. Upon watching the interaction between the agent and the secretary, he knew this was it.

The guards escorted the synth through several hallways before arriving at the Suite. The thick blast doors to the Suite opened up automatically, revealing the Director in his formal dress.

"Welcome to Klandulor, agent," he simply says to the synth.

[Alinora]

"Welcome to Klandulor, agent," he simply says to the synth.

"Hardly." the Synth replied, ignoring his surroundings that, to a normal Human, would've been impressive. Without warning, his skin would morph - changing into a Human form that Atlas preferred, of course, and he would proceed to sit. "It appears that you have been expecting me - our mutual friends have been reluctant to reach out to the Covenant directly, but as the conflict with the Tagali becomes more prevalent, we may have no choice. It is in this regard that I must ask you one simple question: do you respect Humanity's given right to sovereignty, self-governance, and independence?"

[Labstoska]

High above Horus
Alpha Sedun system
British expeditionary fleet
When the last message came through from the unknown fleet the lord admiral muttered under his breath a few words that were quite ungentlemanly and then proceeded to stand up and address the command crew of the Britannia "gentlemen it looks as if the admiral of this strange fleet is requesting me to go aboard their flagship and I fear that I might not return, it is clear to me that this woman does not respect us neither does she have any consideration for whatever actions occur upon this day for compared to whatever empire these strange ships belong to we are but a footnote. If i do not return within 5 hours then send a message to field marshal Andrews and tell him to jump out of the system and inform them that a fleet is coming and they must mobilize every vessel that they can get their hands on." and with that the lord admiral began his solemn descent down to shuttle bay.

As he boarded the shuttle he was hit with a surge of regret there were probably a number of ways he could of handled the situation better but you didn't become lord admiral by being good at your job you had to have the right blood, the shuttle then began it's lonely journey through the void.
[b]Draconis system
AV Imperium[b]
Dame Amelia Harris sat down at the small round table and began discussing with the android" first of all I would like to begin discussion on the possibility of British factories producing Atlas androids and ships, I have no doubt that Sovereign knows about the rather large industrial capacity of the British empire, in exchange we ask for some of Atlas's advanced cloaking and shielding technology that the empire has been wanting for quite some time."

"I would also like to discuss the possibility of starting to prepare for a large scale military offensive against the Tagali Empire, I believe it would be most beneficial to both of our people to have Human territory back in Human hands."

[The Orson Empire]

"Welcome to Klandulor, agent," he simply says to the synth.

"Hardly." the Synth replied, ignoring his surroundings that, to a normal Human, would've been impressive. Without warning, his skin would morph - changing into a Human form that Atlas preferred, of course, and he would proceed to sit. "It appears that you have been expecting me - our mutual friends have been reluctant to reach out to the Covenant directly, but as the conflict with the Tagali becomes more prevalent, we may have no choice. It is in this regard that I must ask you one simple question: do you respect Humanity's given right to sovereignty, self-governance, and independence?"

The guards would leave, and the thick metal blast doors would close with a dull thud behind them. Director Asir sat down at his desk as the synth sat down in a chair in front of him.

"Of course," he replied. "Atlas of all organizations should know this. There is a reason I am often referred to as the 'Protector of Humans' among the Covenant populace. Now, I am aware of Atlas's reluctance in dealing with non-humans, but you must understand that this isolationist attitude will not get you far in your endeavors. If you wish for your galactic ambitions to be successful, having a powerful ally is the most pragmatic option- this is why we work with you after all."

Asir paused for a moment before continuing. "Let us face the reality of it- Atlas's military forces might be among the best in the galaxy, but they are limited in their numbers and resources. The Tagali would grind Atlas down through attrition, and would outproduce and outspend them at every moment. However, the Covenant has the resources to allow such a fight to be successful for Atlas. That is the real reason why you are here, is it not? Not to ask some vague question regarding the rights of humanity- even if humans didn't have equal rights, I imagine our collective hatred of the Tagali is so strong that we could find a way to work together, because that is the pragmatic thing to do."

[The Moscow Metro Red Line]

"A great task lies before us. Before the great reckoning, we must separate the misguided from the heathens. The misguided will know the truth once introduced to them. The heathen will simply laugh and discard the truth. The heathen hates truth and only pursues their own lies. The misguided and the faithful are seekers of truth and will recognize it immediately. " - The Book of the Prophet Meerpsy, The Kirnleth, 13th Translation

---

D'Urdu - Troaki’Dhau Autarky
In the jungle homeworld of Fatvr, three strange figures were out of the starport. They would be the first of their species and even the first of their nation to come to this world. These figures wore white and red robes. Each of them had the symbol of the Enclave on the backs of their robes. They walked onto the floor in unison and in step, in an monastic like manner. They were Zaron missionaries. They were the priests who have dedicated their entire lives to spread Zaron to all the corners of the Universe. Whether they were hostile or friendly to the message their were about to preach.

Suddenly they all turned and walked into one of the restaurants, or what looked like a place that served food with a roof above it, and sat down at a table. All of them were Efferliths and they took off their hoods and waited for someone to come to them. "I have never seen a world like this. Even in the Enclave." Said one of the priests to his comrades.

"Yes, and we shall be the first of our kin to be on this lush world. According to the medical officials, we should not be affected by the planet in any adverse way. We have been properly inoculated and prepared for this climate and environment. Of course such reports come from what the Autarky has given to us. But the Enclave and the Autarky have never had any ill will towards the other. I do not think they would lie to us."

"But above all, we must recognize our greatest protector, the Exalted Ones themselves. They always watch their children and ensure that they shall be safe. If not in this life, then eternally in the spiritual plane."

"We must ask the locals to investigate these Fatvr. We know little about them and it would be the greatest of benefits to know more about them. It would also be wonderful if they are receptive to the Kirnleth. I can already imagine a temple being built here."

"Even if they are not receptive at first, we must continue to try. If we are persecuted, even the better, for this shows that our devotion is true and is worthy to be commended by the Prophets."

[Alinora]

...

"Certainly I would not be here if Sovereign wasn't fully confident that an alliance with the Cho'Dosan Covenant would be mutually beneficial." The Synth's voice was still very cold and calculated, and he let out very little emotion - this was of course, on purpose. Atlas was able to create Synthetic beings that completely mimicked the behaviors of Humans, but found that the soulless and emotionless attitude fit Agents better, for it allowed them to come off more intimidating. "However, I cannot help but feel that you grossly underestimate our true power - not your fault, granted, we are very calculated in the information we allow to reach the rest of the Galaxy. But don't just hear it from me." The Synth stood up and pulled a small disc out from his jacket, tossing it onto the floor in the middle of the room. A blue light shot up from it, and a figure would appear. While clearly Human, there was no face, nor any distinguishable features.

"Director..." the voice said. "Thank you for the hospitality you've shown to my Synth." Eventually, the figure molded into a more distinct person, and began to pace the room. "Tell me, Director, do you know who I am?"

[Ormata]

Alpha Seuden System, High Orbit Above Horus
Negy-04 Expeditionary Fleet, ANV-Troga’Maxi’Doru
Contested Space

Start the Music

The small shuttle approached the fleet, it’s little engines like twin fireflies in the blackness of space. Between the two little flotillas was that wide gap, that void, and the crew upon either side were doubtless waiting, wondering, and calculating precisely how things could go wrong in their heads. First Contact was a helluva tense thing, that had to be said and had to be true, though the Dhau upon the Troga’Maxi’Doru eagerly hoped that the other side would screw up in some way. You might say that the British could have more warships, somewhere, but generally the actions of such people with such cards up their hands were more composed than this Lord Admiral’s.

The shuttle came to a docking bay, a smaller ordeal than that of other main vessels, and entered through the thin forcefield which protected the little bulge. About the hangar it was bare, a calm thing that was so damn quiet you could hear the breathing. It smelled of, quite literally, nothing; engine lubricant and such other heady scents could cause some brain damage, it was well-known, and they liked their mechanics as they were.

The awaiting encourage was just as silent. A squad of Pataru, armed as they were in full gear, awaited by each of the two doors, on either side and on the far end of the hangar, and in the center of it was the Admiral, flanked by two detachments of Dhau armed escort. They, too, wore their full battle gear, chitinous beetle-black armor and all, with their revolving cannons in their lower hands and krak rifles in their upper hands. It was, in some ways, a very, very unwelcoming sight. Upon the roof of the hangar was even a turret, four battles tracking the shuttle in case is was a trap.

“Think we brought enough?” One Dhau said to another.

“No sir.” Replied another. At least that was how the joke went.

Zia’Brota System, D'Urdu
Zordi’Cha Settlement
Autarky Space

A man, a little human with a quick atmosphere about him and no beard, came-about with a menu for each of the three, nodding briefly to them. He did not wish to be near the foreigners, regardless of what they paid and if they paid, regardless of his mantra of talking and helping and giving quality service and all that drivel. The man did not enjoy foreigners. They were always too foreign for his tastes, even the human ones. Yet he did not immediately go back to his customers, instead leaning-down as quick as could be to another patron of the place. Then he moved on. Always more to serve, as it were.

It really wasn’t as busy a place as warranted his speed.

The other person got-up, her little sky-blue cloak with gray trim moving-back just a tad. She wore little else underneath, bare gray-green flesh bared to the world, and the girl’s hair, long and braided, was the color of fresh-hewn oak. Her eyes were filmy, despite the young age she might have. Such was, as some said, the way the natives were on D’Urdu. It was, in simple terms, a strange world, strange for foreigners looking-in and strange for natives looking-out. She approached them, naked feet against the floor, and sat beside them.

“Enjoying the sun? I have not seen your kind here often,” she said, in a sing-song swingtone voice that acted as though it were like a pendulum, swinging back and forth and back and forth, though she did seem to perk-up, cocking her head as though listening to a bird upon her shoulder. “No, neither have they. Your kind of foreigners. We do get foreigners, though, like that group of young Dhau who passed-by on the way to their post in Yra’Mat’Zina. They wanted to do a warrior cult, or something like that, the pups. We indulged them. You know how things are.”

[The Moscow Metro Red Line]

"Boast in nothing but in the glory of the Exalted Ones. If one were to compare their own glory to that of the Exalted Ones, it would be like comparing the size of an atom to the size of the universe. To be given praise is good. But to give that praise to the Exalted Ones is better and encouraged." - The Book of the Prophet Verchu, The Kirnleth, 13th Translation

---

Zordi’Cha Settlement - D'Urdu - Zia’Brota System - Troaki’Dhau Autarky
As the native spoke to them, her speech was translated for the Efferlith. Because of the bio-technological advancements of the Enclave, citizens can get surgery to have universal translators implanted in their vocal cords and ear drums. Of course there are some who chose not to do so and prefer to learn other languages than have it translated to them. Two of the priests looked calmly at the woman while another concentrated more closely at what she was saying.

The priests all wore the same clothing but they had their physical differences. One of the Priests was much taller than the others and had a small trimmed black beard. Another one was shorter and had a much wider body shape. The last one had a more compressed face with a slight scar around his left eye and a robotic left arm which was visible from under his robe. The tall Priest was the first to speak, "We have not come here to hunt or advocate for militancy." His speech came out very clearly and smoothly. "We come from the Enclave. I am Fi'rios Ir'elo." He gestured to the shorter priest, "He is T'ros Braol." He then gestured to the last priest with the scar, "And He is Bor'kan Fralal. We are all Zaron Priests. We have come to tell you of Exalted Ones and their message of salvation and spiritual enrichment. I apologize if I speak strangely to you, I have studied and practiced the official dialect of your language with my own kin who have been to your territory."

"We come not as warriors, but as teachers. And teachers who are eager to teach and to raise students." The priest known as T'ros Braol spoke in agreement. His speech being clear yet subtlety artificial. "Unlike Fi'rios, Bor'kan and I have implants that allow us to freely converse with you. Without any formal training or practice in your language. This is our first time in your territory and we are the first of our kin to come to this world." He pointed to the Bor'kan. "Bor'kan is the youngest of our group. He once was a soldier, but now he is a priest."

"I have focused more on the spiritual war than the physical one." The priest known as Bor'kan Fralal replied. "In my last fight, I lost my arm and almost my eye. It was a miracle that I survived. A miracle from the Exalted Ones. Because of that miracle, I decided to retire my sword for the Kirnleth."

"As you know we are foreigners of your world, and we wish to know more about it and then tell you about the teachings of the Exalted Ones." Fi'rios spoke.

[Ormata]

Zia’Brota System, D'Urdu
Zordi’Cha Settlement
Autarky Space

The lady listened to what the three had to say. Priests! Priests of a sort she did not know. That was curious. Upon their mention of hunting a small smile broke-out in her mind, a chuckle that came forth there which she did not say. Hunting; these people truly did not know of D’Urdu, then. Hunting by foreigners never did happen, simply due to the Fatvr. Violence of the sort that sentient species make never did happen, either; they kept a careful eye upon their visitors and found such waste to be, well...a waste.

Upon their proclamation that they wished to bring spiritual enlightenment, though, she became curious. Such things weren’t simply offered, now, were they? You had to find them out. You had to take such things in the palm of your hand, to reach-out and grasp them and go-over the teachings and questions in your mind. That was what the Elders said. That was what the Elders always said. They disliked mechanically accepting faith; it was not faith at all, they said. Blind acceptance of principle was detrimental, they said. They were staunch on this.

"As you know we are foreigners of your world, and we wish to know more about it and then tell you about the teachings of the Exalted Ones."

“Your faults are forgiven,” she started, with a smile; they made such apologies, these people. Obviously they were of the spiritual sort and were well-used to attempting to not offend. Interesting. Offense was rarely given upon D’Urdu; for many it was a pilgrimage to go to such a world. And they knew nothing of it! Strange.

“I am Emalle, a tender for the Elder Chand. You sit upon D’Urdu, a world of his kind. I am sure he would be curious upon your kind.” She head cocked, again, listening, eyes closed as a shiver rolled down her back despite the heat. “He is curious upon your kind. You have piqued him. Such a thing does not happen often, you know. Her eyes opened, slowly. Perhaps she should tell them something of the world. Yes. Yes that would be best.

“This world, D’Urdu, is the home planet of the Fatvr, some of whom are my masters. They hold sway over many things and float through time, as it were. They are old. We listen to their teachings and tend to their wounds. It is as things are.”

[The Orson Empire]

...

"Certainly I would not be here if Sovereign wasn't fully confident that an alliance with the Cho'Dosan Covenant would be mutually beneficial." The Synth's voice was still very cold and calculated, and he let out very little emotion - this was of course, on purpose. Atlas was able to create Synthetic beings that completely mimicked the behaviors of Humans, but found that the soulless and emotionless attitude fit Agents better, for it allowed them to come off more intimidating. "However, I cannot help but feel that you grossly underestimate our true power - not your fault, granted, we are very calculated in the information we allow to reach the rest of the Galaxy. But don't just hear it from me." The Synth stood up and pulled a small disc out from his jacket, tossing it onto the floor in the middle of the room. A blue light shot up from it, and a figure would appear. While clearly Human, there was no face, nor any distinguishable features.

"Director..." the voice said. "Thank you for the hospitality you've shown to my Synth." Eventually, the figure molded into a more distinct person, and began to pace the room. "Tell me, Director, do you know who I am?"

Director Asir watched as the agent threw out a small disk and tossed it onto the floor. It appeared to be a small holoprojector, as a hologram of some person appeared from it. It was fuzzy at first, but then it molded into what appeared to be an aging human male with a wrinkled face, dark hair, and what appeared to be synthetic blue eyes.

The Director could psionically sense that whoever this figure was is certainly more powerful than they appeared to be. He could also sense that the figure was very ancient, likely far older than the Covenant or even the Tagali Empire.

Then, it all made sense to him. Atlas's own members didn't even know, but he knew.

"Sovereign, the artificial intelligence that leads Atlas," the Director replied after a long pause. "You were built by some ancient empire older than we could fathom, but not even your own members know that you aren't human. Fascinating..."

[Alinora]

"Sovereign, the artificial intelligence that leads Atlas," the Director replied after a long pause. "You were built by some ancient empire older than we could fathom, but not even your own members know that you aren't human. Fascinating..."

The being flickered, but it's face remained calm, and it's actions calculated. "While it may be true that I am not Human, my compassion for Humanity is still very real. The ingenuity of the Human race - their resilience, it is certainly something to be admired." Sovereign continued to pace around the room, stopping at the window and looking out at the city. "Very few are privileged enough to know my secret , so don't think you're special, Director - the only reason you could sense my true identity is because I allowed it." He crossed his arms behind his back and looked directly at the Cho'Dosan. "Consider it a symbol of good faith - a concession to ensure that an agreement can be made between us." Sovereign paused. "It's no secret that the peace between the Tagali and the Cho'Dosan will collapse, the only question is, how dedicated to it's preservation are you?"

[The Orson Empire]

The being flickered, but it's face remained calm, and it's actions calculated. "While it may be true that I am not Human, my compassion for Humanity is still very real. The ingenuity of the Human race - their resilience, it is certainly something to be admired." Sovereign continued to pace around the room, stopping at the window and looking out at the city. "Very few are privileged enough to know my secret , so don't think you're special, Director - the only reason you could sense my true identity is because I allowed it." He crossed his arms behind his back and looked directly at the Cho'Dosan. "Consider it a symbol of good faith - a concession to ensure that an agreement can be made between us." Sovereign paused. "It's no secret that the peace between the Tagali and the Cho'Dosan will collapse, the only question is, how dedicated to it's preservation are you?"

The Director listened to the words of Sovereign carefully. How powerful is this artificial intelligence...? he wondered. Somehow, it had mastered the use of psionics, as the Director only discovered it was Sovereign because it willed it. With something this powerful at the helm of Atlas, the Director was lucky for it to be on the side of the Covenant.

"The reason the Tagali invaded the Covenant all those years ago was because of a human colony they discovered in our territory," the Director began. "The humans told tales of their fight against the Tagali and all of the horrifying atrocities they experienced, and the Covenant witnessed it firsthand on said world. They ruthlessly subjugated the population, massacring humans and members of other species alike."

Asir got up from his seat and moved towards the right wall of the office; mounted on the wall was a military identification badge and a shoulder pauldron (indicating rank); they both appeared to be heavily damaged from combat. "My own father fought in that war as a commodore in the Covenant Navy, and was shot when his ship was boarded by the Tagali. This is my only memory left of him, but it is also a reminder that I must finish what the Tagali begun years ago..."

Asir then sat back down in his seat. "To say that I despise the Tagali is...putting it lightly. They are a bane upon the entire galaxy! They have killed billions in their quest for dominance over the galaxy and have subjugated dozens of species. They massacred billions of humans in cold blood and millions of our own people during their invasions. The day that I see the banners of the royal House of Sajana and all of their client houses in flames, that will be the day my life is complete!"