Simplicity in Conflict [FT, ZB/Tanabiku & Atmoran Comm.]

[The Tophat Empire]

6th of July, 2500 AER[After Emperor's Rise]

Empire breaking self imposed isolation after 250 years

After a 250 year long isolation, where the only contact the outside world have had with this militarist nation. Is A) the occasional fleet leaving it´s space. Or for those that passed its draconian paperwork; A armed escort to one of it's water caste[Writers note, The water caste seems to be diplomats] members

- Headline from a random newspaper

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Imperial Resolution #32143123A1, That was what have changed the situation. While the Empire have been in a self imposed isolation from the last 250 years, It was by no means unknow. It was small, yes, but it had a battle hardened army, known for disappearing out of its borders at times, the white and black ships easily to distinguish. They would appear in a sector infested with pirates, cartels or other scum. Removing the threat, and if the sector belonged to another nation, the fleets would then leave. Often dropping a message buoy for the nation that controlled the area. Or it was independent, they would place it under their protection, starting the process of placing them under the authoritarian rule of the empire

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7218 Amity Avenue. Tidal City. Stormwrath

Water Caste Member X-04-1 was sitting at his desk, grinning. "So it has started, it looks like this recent surge of embassy building was not for nothing" she thought to herself. A small notification on her wrist display(Think a sleek, thin white pipboy with touch and holograms and shit) indicated that she had received new orders.

She guessed it had something to do with current conflict that the nation she was ambassador to; Stormwrath. Was currently engaged in and she was right. Her new mission was to meet with a representative of the Stormwrathian government to see how the empire can assist in the conflict. As such she set about writing a message to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

[INTERNATIONAL SUBSPACE COMMUNIQÉ]

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RECEIVER: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Stormwrath
ENCRYPTION: HIGHEST

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To Whomever it may concern

As you may or may not know, the emperor recently enacted Imperial Resolution #32143123A1. This in effect means that the empire will end its self imposed isolation and take a more active role on the intergalactic stage. To this end I was ordered by The High Council to send this message.

I as representative of the The Interstellar United Kingdom of The Tophat Empire invites you to a formal meeting where the matters of how the Empire can assist your nation in the current conflict that you are engaged in will be discussed over a small dinner

Best Regards
Signed:
Water Caste Member X-04-1, Current ambassador to Stormwrath

[Chirutarisu]

12 Mirabatz 2567 Post-Altaria – Zero Hyōjun Hidzuke
52 Isahina d, 52 Isahina System, United Galactic States of Chirutarisu
Zeronian Coalition Force in the Fireflower Theatre

"Admiral Nakatani!," reported Admiral Izayoi from his comms channel. A tone of unease is in his voice. "Gomen'nasai, but a few battle fleets have slipped through our defenses. They are going to reinforce the Diistaaks' lost ranks."

"Let them come to us then," replied the ocelot anthro, assuring Izayoi. "Their forces are showing signs of retreat. 66th Fleet Ships, accelerate and surround the enemy now. 69th Fleet and 49th Weltraumflotte, continue course towards the asteroid belt."

All of a sudden in the blink of an eye, a blast came forth from the Distaaks on the 66th Fleet as well as the two auxiliary wings that are closing in on Eylok and his ships. This must be the infamous Immobilizers that the Diistaaks have been readying. The weapons from their ships discharged, and the Tanabikan ships at the front to center were hit. The shipcarriers in the back were unaffected by the blast; such have already been made impervious to such weaponry. The reserve fleets in the rear haven't been affected by the Immobilizers – due to the constraints of interplanetary distance – allowing them to ready themselves for the oncoming Diistaak corvette fleet when it comes. The Maneshitsugumi was affected by the blast, and the emergency lights turned on all across the gigantic vessel. Nakatani was aware that this was the moment he has been waiting for. The Diistaak may or may not be aware of the laws of physics, particularly the law concerning inertia.

"Switch to analog controls now," directed the Admiral, who seemed like he has been reinvigorated by a burst of energy coming from within. "I want us to show them we are not defenseless." The crew members all over the ship did so, turning the turrets and guns to their respective bearings. It was a good thing they had a nanobot auxiliary rerouting system and redstone generators for keeping the consoles on so that the Altarians can see what is going on outside. The Altarian ships Indeed they are retreating. This has proven that no nation can stand against the will of Akai; their former enemies have tried and failed to do so. Or has it? Nakatani did note of the reinforcements of Eylok firing on the defensive arcs, as well as the ships that still continued their course towards the planet. He ordered the other ships, "Inertia has served us well, maintain courses around the ships and fire. Reserve fleets, prepare for Gaaf task forces."

The Altarians did so, and fired off their arsenal of redstone relavistic kill projectiles, which used an independent system apart from those that have been disabled by the Immobilizer. The remaining ships fought with everything they have, but eventually failed to neutralize the fighting power and spirit of the 66th Fleet. On the other hand, the two battle formations flanking the remaining enemy forces also took a heavy beating, and a few ships were lost to Diistaak fire from reinforcements. However, the rest managed to stay intact for the rest of the two minute experience of disadvantage. Once the restoration of power was completed by the nanobots within the ships, Immediately did the AIs respond with adjusting the bearing of their ships' arsenal, aimed at the enemy. Now was the final, decisive strike. The ships moved into formation and combined their fire, converging it on the middle capital ship once more. Releasing the beam of light, the ship fired on the critically damaged Diistaak force, destroying whatever is left. The remaining Diistaak forces enveloped the Altarians with a black cloud, and left as it cleared up within space. Nakatani took a good look at the screen and saw no remnants of them. "They have retreated."

SANAE asked the Admiral, "Should we go after them? If we take more of them we are going to claim a greater victory."

"No," he replied. "We have won the battle this day, but the war will still continue. Ulokuun Eylok's withdrawal is enough to justify that we have triumphed." Yet the final blow is to come.

Meanwhile, the Gaaf corvettes have encountered the coalition forces in the asteroid belt, and began to take down the Diistaak ships. It was going all according to plan, a plan that had been in motion for the last few hours. However, the enemy's vessels seem to be defenseless; perhaps they may be too defenseless. The fighters have done a very excellent job of weakening the recently decloaked corvettes, which are just continuing to make their way into the asteroid belt. However, a solid light turret had just penetrated the energy shield and punctured into the hull of one of the corvettes, and it erupted into a ball of inferno, with shockwaves that disintegrated the asteroids around as well as the small craft nearby. This is something that the defense forces have realized a moment too late. "Admiral Nakatani!," reported the commanding officer of the 74th Fleet. "The Diistaak corvettes have been refitted into bombs for detonation in this system!"

"They're going to blow the atmosphere of 52 Isahina d." Now there is a reason to worry. "Stop those corvettes from reaching the planet, detonate them prematurely if necessary." One by one the enemy corvettes were blown apart in the asteroid belt, like torches that are to be lit by a match. Many of them exploded in the belt, sending the asteroids flying away from the chaos. Some of the ships' energy shields were impacted by the space rocks that went aimlessly through the void. Yet, despite the resistance being put up by the Altarian vessels and the high attrition rate inflicted on the Diistaak ships, a few of the outfitted explosive transports slipped past the defensive lines, and slowly pressed on to the inner system. Time was already running out. The asteroid belt was the only natural barrier standing between the target planet and the enemy ships. Not even the deep space defenses and the military stations have been able to stop all of the ships that have breached the Altarians. Only three ships have made it to the planet, ready to detonate themselves.

The Diistaak corvettes slowly entered into orbit around the planet, putting themselves in a very perilous position – an advantage for the autonomous planetary defense over the now empty planet. As solid light cannons fired upwards to take down the enemy, it may soon become clear that Soku will have his way, even if Akai has triumphed over him. The lights that came forth from the earth have reached upwards to shield the planet from impending destruction, but it was in vain. The ships exploded in a fiery ball of chaos and destruction, in explosions that have forcefully torn the clouds into tiny pieces and enveloped the sky in the ominous colors of orange, yellow and white that eclipsed the light of 52 Isahina herself. It is as if the heavens have given way for Kasai to unleash her wrath upon the unsuspecting surface dwelling mortals. One can say that this was the end game of the Diistaak attack on the system: for revenge for Tir Himdah. However, it cannot be called a victory for the attackers – nor can it be called a decisive triumph over the Tanabikans – because the Diistaak force is now returning the way they came in humiliation. To add fuel to the fire, the anger of the Altarian people has been aroused against the Diistaaks – not only for attacking an important Altarian territory but also for the disruption of 52 Isahina d's natural beauty through the use of weapons of war. Should mortals interfere with Akai's creations, it is a sacrilege against Him and the great spirits. As the citizens of the United Galactic States are deeply spiritual, they have reason to be enraged at Faal Lot Himdah.

[Stormwrath]

11 Mirabatz 2567 PA – Zero Standard Date
Stormwrath Space Command Military Spaceport, Fenrir Convocature
Tamarus System, Daiichi Quadrant, Tanabiku Galaxy

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Chelsea responded over the comm channel, "Alright! Watchman Armiger has instructed us to head to Udaran to meet with him for the battle plan against the Atmoran force heading to the Avand System. See you in Anubika!" She then proceeded to end the transmission. Turning to Bloodshot she ordered, "Alright, let's see if we can get her spaceborne. Patch over to Spaceport Control."

"Roger, Admiral."

Bloodshot opened up a communications channel with the Control Center and gave the code for clearance for departure. Chelsea gave the request. "Spaceport Control, this is Admiral Chelsea Aetolys, commanding officer and captain of the SXS Watchmaiden, codes have been sent requesting for departure." It took a while for the Control Center to respond. From the current conditions of the ship as of now, it is completed, inspected and ready for space travel. Before a vessel in the spaceport is considered ready for departure, there is a long process that has to be undergone by the vessel, such as a rigid inspection to conclude if it is spaceworthy. Once the inspections are completed, the captain of the vessel is to enter the ship and receive a report of the inspection from the AI Servitor. On the part of Spaceport Control, it has to make sure no other ships are currently blocking the docking bay of the ship for it to have room when exiting the port. The Control Center came back with this audio response: "Admiral Chelsea Aetolys, clearance codes have been received… you are cleared by Spaceport Control for departure. Ship class Archemperor super-dreadnought currently in dock, recommending that the warship exit the docking bay backwards."

"Roger that, Spaceport Control. Awaiting the go signal." She turned to Bloodshot Eyes and said, "You know your orders."

"Aye-aye, Chelsea. Power plants at 20% full performance and awaiting for the locks to be disengaged from the ship."

Spaceport Control responded, "Disengaging the locks now." At the docking bay outside, the locks slowly let go of the massive warship, allowing it some breathing room. The airlocks disconnected from the ship as well. Slowly did the Watchmaiden pull itself out of the docking bay, like the slow movements of tectonic plates of a terrestrial planet. Her stern exited into space first, bringing the rest of the body of the enormous vessel with her. So far, so good. No other ships are within the vicinity of the craft, so it is clear for departure from the military spaceport. The Watchmaiden continued to exit the bay slowly until all of the ship has left it. She rotated for a while until its bow is pointing in the direction away from the central rod. "Bloodshot, are we clear to go?"

Checking the systems of the super-dreadnought if they are at full capacity, as well as if other ships are exiting the spaceport as of now, he reported back, "Yes ma'am. The course is mostly cleared for departure out of the spaceport, Admiral. Purilla informed me that she's going to follow the Watchmaiden."

"Very well. Accelerate us outta here."

Bloodshot smirked, "Will do, Chelsea. Just sit tight." The ship slowly began to move itself out of the spaceport and into space. The power plants roared with a resounding sound, forcing the ship forward with all of the force they can muster. The Watchmaiden was now spaceborne – its polygonal and angular shapes leaving the influence of the spaceport. It taxied out of the spaceport and began to propel itself around the gas giant to take advantage of its gravitational influence as a kind of cosmic slingshot. It continued to further accelerate as it went around Fenrir, taking its time and calculating the shortest course towards Anubika. It then took its final step by placing its power plants at full power. The trip was going to last at least one day, due to interstellar traffic laws in place in the system.

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12 Mirabatz 2567 PA – Zero Standard Date
Meeting of the Tanabikan Coalition Force for the Liberation of the Daisan Quadrant
Anubika Convocature, Tamarus System, Daiichi Quadrant

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OOC: Purilla (Faal Lot Himdah) and Fleet Admiral Cotte (Chronos Prime) may interject in the meeting.

Anubika, the second world of the Intergalactic Empire and of Zeronian civilization. It has its significance in the course of Zeronian history, having been the first planet that was colonized in the Tamarus System. The planet is a fortress, having been long considered as the gateway to Zero itself. Here she is to regroup herself with the rest of the 2nd Fleet. From the looks of it it must be somewhat crowded, probably due to the presence of the other two fleets. The Chronosian 4th Fleet's vessels have happened to finish ghosting into the heart of the system, hailing the Stormwrathian Command at Udaran for formal entry into the system. They were lucky that they were allowed to remain at Anubika's high orbit – as stated in the Zero World Council's orbital protocol – or they would have been turned away.

"Hmmm, it must be crowded today with warships," Chelsea remarked at the scene before her, displayed on the holographic wall screen. The three Stormwrathian Fleets are just orbiting the planet, just hovering above Udaran below. Bloodshot took a moment to watch the video feed with her. He then proceeded to execute a series of codes that will send all the necessary entry documents to Udaran Command.

The AI Servitor concurred, "Perhaps we should be elsewhere in high orbit, far from where most of the ships are."

Chelsea disagreed. "No, we should meet up with the rest of the 2nd Fleet."

"That place is crowded, with the 12th and 14th Fleet also orbiting there." Most of the ships, he observed, were synchronized with the Udaran Military Base below.

"I'm aware of that. Slow down until high orbit at the edges of the 2nd Fleet's current position."

Bloodshot knew this was dangerous, for a massive ship may be more difficult to slow down, especially a ship of this size. "I have a terrible feeling about this."

"I'm all about terrible feelings, my friend."

"You might regret that later on in your future battles. Just warning you."

The Watchmaiden began to decelerate itself by pointing its propulsion systems in the opposite direction, and slowly adjusted itself into entering Anubika's orbit. Indeed the super-dreadnought was risking a collision with some of the ships of the 12th and 14th Stormwrathian Fleet, so Bloodshot has to time it just right. Once it was the exact second, the ship was further slowed down to reach the desired velocity. Eventually it slowed into geosynchronous orbit, in proximity from its sister super-dreadnoughts Fred Jacobson Ichabod and Requiescat. Having noted that the ship is finally in the desired spot, Bloodshot reported to Chelsea, "Watchmaiden is in geosynchronous orbit. Opening comms channel with the Tanabiku Galactic Joint Defense Command."

The meeting that was described by Idris – and announced to all nations throughout the galaxy – was going to be done through a complex series of networks linked together by the Metaverse in order for the other star states to communicate with each other. Several holograms appeared surrounding the table in the middle of the room. As Chelsea walked over there, the holograms of Stormwrath's high officials of the Armed Forces – individuals known as the Watchmen – appeared on the table, though they are scaled down in their holographic representation to a certain degree. Admiral Skagger's figure is also seen among them. Other holograms that have appeared before the Stormwrathian Admiral are distinctively not Stormwrathian, such as admirals and fleetmasters from powers like the Bladed Leaf, the Teludir Hegemony, the Estirgane and a few others – the commanders-in-chief of their respective forces. Even Purilla's figure was among the holograms, as she was a defector from the aggressor's side. These were the representatives of the nations that will be participating in the liberation of the Daisan Quadrant – to release Atmora's grip on the Tanabiku Galaxy. To top it off, the Stormwrathian Archemperor's figure appeared on the table, the last hologram to appear before this meeting spanning thousands of light years is to commence. He was discernible because of his crown which resembles a certain kind of ancient military helmet.

In case any other entity would want to snoop in, layers of security systems were erected to make sure that what has been discussed is not to be repeated. No pleasantries are needed for now, the sapients present are ready to get down to business. Caspian began in Universal, "Salutations, one and all. Thank you all for coming. Let us skip the formalities for now and discuss the matter at hand: the liberation of the Daisan Quadrant. Many of the officials present in this meeting represent the nations that have been invaded by the Atmoran Commonwealth and her forces. Our victory at Meridiem has temporarily halted the advance for now, giving us greater chances of subsequent victories. As stated in the war plans, the TGF requires another victory for Operation Torrent to begin its second phase."

Idris added, "You all are aware of Operation Torrent's plans, as the details have been sent to your respective militaries…" To clarify, Operation Torrent is the official name for a series of plans to liberate the Daisan Quadrant from the Atmoran Commonwealth's forces. For this operation to succeed should require an astonishing amount of planning, logistics, resources and most importantly the cooperation of the parties involved. The actual documents explaining the counteroffensive are quite lengthy and exhaustive, but can be summarized into these key steps:

• First, the position of the Tanabiku-Atmoran front line should remain in place via decisive victories. This part of the operation has begun with Meridiem and is to conclude with the battle at Avand and with other battles if need be.
• Secondly, the liberation forces are to be divided into seven task forces: two are to be assigned with the liberation of the coreward areas of the Quadrant, while four are to be assigned to the rimward areas. The seventh task force is to launch another counteroffensive using the Daishi Quadrant as a launchpad to squeeze Atmora into fighting on what is effectively two fronts.
• Should the Daisan coreward regions be secured, the task forces assigned there are to push the front line towards the rim. The Daisan rimward and Daishi forces are expected to come from both sides and encircle the Atmoran forces at the Teludir-Bladed Leaf border regions.
• Finally, the coreward forces are to advance towards the positions of the rimward forces and regroup for the final push.

"…This is why the Avand System should not fall into Atmoran hands, or the operation will be put off indefinitely." Pausing for a moment he resumed, "Currently the enemy force is less than a thousand light years from the system, and they may be slowed down by pirate attacks that have sprung up in the past few months. By the time they arrive, the Atmorans are going to be partially weakened. However, we should not make the mistake of underestimating the Atmoran war machine."

Admiral Skagger has decided to speak. "Watchman, it is most likely that they will rely on numbers in order to defeat us. However, from identifying the commanders-in-chief of the respective fleets of the Atmoran Commonwealth force, we may be able to use unorthodox tactics against them." He knew that some of the Atmoran commanders are somewhat inexperienced in combat; their most credible exposure militarily would be the dreaded Haven Galaxy pandemic of a couple of decades before.

Chelsea remained silent and observed the holograms deliberate about the war plans that may or may not be carried out. Bloodshot just remained by her side.

The Bladed Leaf commander was more skeptical on what Skagger may have in mind. Rubbing his chin he reflected, "The question may be on which tactics to utilize in the battle before us. Powerful our ships may be in space warfare, they are enormous targets for enemy weaponry. It is either to be hit or not. If we arrive in clustered formations, the Atmorans can just focus their weapons without having to adjust their bearings."

"Fleetmaster Qēsarin, they are most likely going to conform in deep space, as the system has a formidable network of defenses, especially around the system's planets and moons. They would not risk destroying the fortifications for the capture of this system, who knows if they may come in handy to them?"

"You have a valid point, Admiral Skagger. However they aren't just going to sit there in deep space waiting for us to come to them; being stationary even for a few moments can be detrimental to any ship, and they know that as much as we do."

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Imperium Galaxiae Stormvrathia
Nolite futuris timere, nolite praeteritis lacrimare

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OFFICIAL COMMUNIQUE OF THE INTERGALACTIC EMPIRE OF STORMWRATH

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TO: Water Caste Member X-04-1, Ambassador of the Tophat Empire to Stormwrath
FR: Mn. Em. Lawrence Umbrea, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Stormwrath

DATE: 12 Mirabatz 2567 PA
ENCRYPTION: 100%

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Salve!

We have taken note of your nation's withdrawal from isolationist policies, and therefore take the opportunity to congratulate you for such. Thank you very much for sending a dispatch to us, it is greatly appreciated. We also thank you for your concern for the war that has come upon our people.

In behalf of his Majesty, the Archemperor Caspian V, I grant you your request for a formal meeting. The meeting will be at the Lilac Palace on 13 Mirabatz 2567 PA at 19:00, and the Archemperor, High Overseer Lunda, the Minister of Defense and I will be there. We look forward to meeting with you soon. You may not bring guards to escort you to the Lilac Palace; we will be providing you with the entourage you need. Further details will be disclosed to you in the future.

Magnopere augescas!

Sincerely,

//LAWRENCE UMBREA//
Muniscus Emissarius Lawrence Umbrea
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Stormwrath

[Chronos Prime]

High orbit over Anubika
Aboard CNS Antipides, Flagship, Chronosian Fourth Fleet

Fleet Admiral Crusse Cotte looked himself up and down in the wall-mounted mirror. He carefully inspected his crimson and white dress uniform, adjusting the collar slightly so that the symmetry was complete. With a nod, he placed his hat on his dark-haired head, strapped his dress saber to his left hip, and spoke to the vessel he commanded.

"Ship, please inform Vice Admiral Graddiman to make the meeting room ready. I will need it to confer with my colleagues from Stormwrath."

"Yes, sir." Replied the ship's AI, speaking in a tone of voice that could easily pass as that of a human.

Again, Admiral Cotte nodded. He disengaged the mirror field and strode through the door, but not before inspecting his uniform one final time. Appearances and imperative in forming a good working relationship with colleagues-in-arms. He strode down the wide passageway, returning the occasional salute of the higher-ranking officers he passed. Lower ranking officers were not required to salute, as the admirals commonly visited them in situations that could be deadly if they removed their hands from the controls.

Fifty feet past the door of his quarters, Cotte stepped into a suspensor lift and spoke the command for the ship's flag bridge. The magnetically-powered platform, augmented by a mild inertial field, quickly accelerated up the three-foot-wide shaft, bringing the admiral up the the bridge in under six seconds. He stepped out of the shaft, and solemnly nodded to the two quarks flanking the lift. Immediately, his presence was noticed.

"Admiral on the bridge!" came the cry, a new watchstander overly excited about announcing his commander's presence.

"As you were." replied Cotte, and the men all returned their attentions to their consoles. Cotte strode to where his executive officer sat, and leaned over his shoulder. "Should I be needed for anything that you are unable to handle, I will be in the meeting room speaking with our Stormwrathian allies. Do not hesitate to call me if my presence is required." The admiral nodded, and Cotte returned to the suspensor. He spoke the command for the ship's meeting room, and the lift carried him down to the small room. At present, there were no tables in the space, the room completely bare. As Cotte strode in, however, he noticed that a single desk had been placed for him on one end of the room. He sat, and spoke the codes that allowed him direct access to the Antipides' communications suite. He the opened a channel to the Stormwrathian command.

"Good evening. This is Fleet Admiral Crusse Cotte, hailing from the Chronosian Naval Ship Antipides. I request to be patched in to the coalition meeting on freeing the Daisan Quardant." He then made sure that the hologram projectors built into the floor and cieling of the room worked by displaying a three-dimensional map of the quadrant, centering of the Fourth Fleet's location. He then disabled the projection, allowing it to fade to nothing, and waited for a reply to his request.

[The Tophat Empire]

(Image)
Imperium Galaxiae Stormvrathia
Nolite futuris timere, nolite praeteritis lacrimare

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OFFICIAL COMMUNIQUE OF THE INTERGALACTIC EMPIRE OF STORMWRATH

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TO: Water Caste Member X-04-1, Ambassador of the Tophat Empire to Stormwrath
FR: Mn. Em. Lawrence Umbrea, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Stormwrath

DATE: 12 Mirabatz 2567 PA
ENCRYPTION: 100%

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Salve!

We have taken note of your nation's withdrawal from isolationist policies, and therefore take the opportunity to congratulate you for such. Thank you very much for sending a dispatch to us, it is greatly appreciated. We also thank you for your concern for the war that has come upon our people.

In behalf of his Majesty, the Archemperor Caspian V, I grant you your request for a formal meeting. The meeting will be at the Lilac Palace on 13 Mirabatz 2567 PA at 19:00, and the Archemperor, High Overseer Lunda, the Minister of Defense and I will be there. We look forward to meeting with you soon. You may not bring guards to escort you to the Lilac Palace; we will be providing you with the entourage you need. Further details will be disclosed to you in the future.

Magnopere augescas!

(Image)

Sincerely,

//LAWRENCE UMBREA//
Muniscus Emissarius Lawrence Umbrea
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Stormwrath

[INTERNATIONAL SUBSPACE COMMUNIQÉ]

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RECEIVER:
Lawrence Umbrea, Stormwrath Minister of Foreign Affairs
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Stormwrath
ENCRYPTION:
HIGHEST

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Greetings

I humbly accept your invitation to meet at the Lilac Palace, at the time and date stated in your previous communique. I will follow the terms that you also stated. But i must ask permission to bring a Ceremonial Rapier to present to your Archemperor Caspian V. as well as a Meeting Drone.

Imperial law states that all official meetings between Water Caste Members and other officials must be recorded, I humbly apologize for any and all inconvenience that this might cause

Best Regards
Signed:
Water Caste Member X-04-1, Current ambassador to Stormwrath

[The Sangheili Dominion]

"A Great victory for our fleet!" Councillor Vorj'i exclaimed "We must show our support to Tanabiku, and continue the fight elsewhere!"

"I disagree with my most esteemed fellow councillor, we must show patience and caution before diving into this conflict throat first." Councillor Jaras interjected. "All too often the Sangheili Empire gets itself mired in drawn out wars simply because of a few promising victories."

The Hall of the Ecumene was packed with Sangheili officials, as a second round of council debate was beginning. Three levels of grand-stand-like seats surrounded a central platform, where, as usual, the high council was dominating any real discussion. Members of the house of peers were content to sit back and watch the Arbiter's chosen tear each other apart for a few hours, before casting their final vote. Flanking each exit, several guards stood at a slightly bored attention. Also as usual, the debate on war policy was split between the Militarists and the Reformers, with the Zealots providing a mostly silent neutrality. It was expected for Vorj'i to be as enthusiastic as he was, he had earned almost all of his political reputation on the battlefield. A former fleetmaster, he had turned down several high level kaidon positions to pursue imperial politics on Sanghelios. On the other hand Jaras, the natural born politician that he was, was always ready to shoot down any ideas of grand conquest. Of the eight hierarchs of the high council, five seemed to be leaning pro war, with a violently loud minority arguing against it. As far as the council of peers was concerned, the militarists still held a slim majority in number, even with the zealots and reformers poaching seats left and right.

Within an hour, the votes had been cast. By imperial decree of both houses of the Ecumene, the Sangheili empire was authorized to expand the war effort against the Atmorans. Two additional fleets would be sent into neutral space, en route to attack Atmoran positions, and a large force of ships was to be sent to the Fleet of Transcendent Justice. It was rumored that the Arbiter's personal fleet was also being prepped for battle, though such reports remained nothing above speculation.

[Faal Lot Himdah]

Anubika Convocature, Tamarus System, Daiichi Quadrant, Tanabiku Galaxy
SXS Mussitatio Domina
86th day of Felniir, in the 252nd year of Eylok

Purilla stood in front of the table, holograms on all sides of her. The SXS Mussitatio Domina, was sitting in the space around Anubika. Purilla had not wanted to go near the planet, she already felt as though she was intruding. She had spent a while before the meeting, making herself presentable. She looked like a Diistaak princess primed for war. Now she was standing through a meeting, she couldn't help but look at each hologram individually.

She listened carefully to the meeting, but showing no sign of it. They spent a good amount of talking about how the Atmorans would come at them and ways to defend. They mentioned unorthodox tactics, and Purilla just smiled. She looked over every plan, multiple times. All the plans had there advantages and risks. Purilla noticed that the plans had little mention of the Vokun Gramaan, something that Purilla knew the Atmorans had no counter to.

"Excuse my interruption, but the Atmorans would be planning to face normal Stormwrathian tactics. A scattered formation would be best, also, we should not all enter in the same direction, if possible we should arrive from all possible angles. I know that if we can surround them at the beginning of the battle, victory would be heavily in our favor, and if I could successfully sneak around, I could release the Vokun Gramaan." Purilla suggested.

[Stormwrath]

12 Mirabatz 2567 PA – Zero Standard Date
Meeting of the Tanabikan Coalition Force for the Liberation of the Daisan Quadrant
Anubika Convocature, Tamarus System, Daiichi Quadrant

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As they were discussing the battle plans to be executed in the future, another hologram appeared on Chelsea's table. This appeared to be the figure of a Chronosian Admiral, identifiable by the distinct crimson and white color pattern of his clothing. This was Fleet Admiral Crusse Cotte of the Chronosian 4th Fleet, and he is representing his nation which will be participating in the liberation of the Daisan Quadrant. He was clearly late for the party. Perhaps he was let in by the Stormwrathians, who had control over the network that was set up. Idris' three-dimensional projection moved about and said, "Ah yes, Fleet Admiral Cotte is here. Welcome." Chelsea just stood there and nodded.

Skagger continued, "We may want to send in our small craft in first to deal them the first blow. Since they are highly maneuverable, we can attack the larger Atmoran vessels from all possible angles."

Fleet Marshal Magur Talndasir seemed to be more aware of the Atmorans' ship defenses. "If I may interject, The Atmorans have certainly improved on their zero-point defense capabilities. Our small craft my be responded to much quicker, thus risking our complements."

"It is better if we send the fighters and gunships off rather than take them on with our larger warships, Fleet Marshal. If the vessels are sent off, they are going to be huge targets for their offensive weapons."

"We could've just utilized our long-range weaponry against them. From how uncertain outer space can be, we can attack the enemy without them seeing us."

"That will just lead them to us. You know they can trace the projectiles from their point of origin."

"How does one exactly track objects launched close to the speed of light?"

"The time it takes for Tamarus' light to reach Zero is roughly eight minutes. Now if you consider the distances involved here, say several ZAUs, light may take several minutes or even hours. They can just easily track them since our projectiles are relatively slow."

Purilla may have noticed some obscure detail, concerning the battle plans that the Stormwrathians are discussing. Perhaps they may have left out an important weapon currently in their arsenal – one that the Atmorans may or may not be prepared for. Her experience at Vicina nearly two years ago made sure of that to the Stormwrathian Fleet; maybe it could work against the Commonwealth. She suggested to the Stormwrathians, "Excuse my interruption, but the Atmorans would be planning to face normal Stormwrathian tactics; a scattered formation would be best. Also, we should not all enter in the same direction, if possible we should arrive from all possible angles. I know that if we can surround them at the beginning of the battle, victory would be heavily in our favor; and if I could successfully sneak around, I could release the Vokun Gramaan."

"Vokun Gramaan?," questioned Qēsarin.

"Admiral Sakar, we are aware of what the Atmorans expect from us," Skagger rebutted. "They have already known of our surprise attacks, particularly the one that the SSC used 16 months ago. Of course we won't be using the old decloaking tactic on them."

Now was time for Chelsea to place her two cents on the table. "The Vokun Gramaan are specialized Diistaak nanobots capable of far-reaching military capabilities that even we haven't anticipated, despite years and years of familiarity with nanotechnology's military applications. The first time we came across it was at Vicina, and many of our ships were lost. It has the ability to consume most kinds of matter in seconds, from military hardware to organic life forms. It is controlled by someone with metaphysical abilities, and I think Purilla here is the only one so far who can master it."

"Admiral Sakar can do that?," again the Bladed Leaf Fleetmaster questioned.

"Affirmative, Fleetmaster. It is really beyond what any of our scientists and military engineers have come up with; the closest we can get to are nanobots controlled via a neural interface, and still it hasn't been perfected yet." This isn't the usual Chelsea; she often sets aside her casual and flippant attitude whenever she participates in a meeting with some of the highest officials in the military, Stormwrathian or not. Decorum is expected in these kinds of meetings.

"Of course, there is the logistical problem of keeping in touch with the nanobots," Skagger pointed out. "Too far and they may be out of range." Purilla assured to them that her control over her little minions are not constrained by several million klicks, and that all she needs to do is to get deep within the enemy formation.

What did bother Skagger is her proposal to surround them on all angles. "Our fleets and the enemy's are more or less equally matched in number."

Idris interjected, "We could use solid holograms to pose as more ships to deceive the Atmoran forces. Also, our Infinite Improbability Drives have the chances of making things appear out of nowhere, often in the thousands. This could create a huge scanner registry for the Atmorans."

"Ah, deception. We could utilize that to thinking we are much more in number."

"Yes, Admiral Skagger. If we are ten fleets, we can appear as fifteen fleets."

"Though that specific number may be more or less actual since we are going to have reserves, or at least call in reinforcements. The Teludir will make sure of that, won't you, Fleet Marshal Talndasir?"

"We'll try our best, Watchman. After all, we are talking about most of the Teludir Hegemony taken in during the Atmoran advance."

Clearly Idris was about to lose his composure, since many of the men and women here seem to doubt the chances of the Tanabikans claiming victory. "I DON'T GIVE A FUCK ABOUT THE CHANCES!," he yelled. "We have already fared well against the aggressors that have conspired against us, despite their superiority in numbers; how dare you doubt what we can do? The Tanabiku Galactic Forum has the advantage of better tactics and technology, victory should be sought for! Shoot and kill as many as possible! Blow their ships to bits! Give them unending attrition! I do not care what it takes as long as you all remind the Atmoran aggressors to stay on their side of the line!" Everyone in the meeting fell silent at his words. He took a few seconds to breathe and regain his composure and continue. "Are we all clear with the plans laid out?"

Most of them stood at attention and replied, "Yes sir."

"Good. Skagger will be the supreme commander for this operation. Aetolys, Skagger, Talndasir and Qēsarin will be leading the main counteroffensive against the Atmoran forces. Surround them on all sides. Sakar along with the Chronosian 4th Fleet will move deep into the enemy formation and surprise them with the aforementioned nanobots. The rest are to surround the Atmoran fleets and lay their vessels to waste until they surrender. Understood?"

"Understood," replied the holograms at the meeting. That may mean that the meeting is finished, for now. The holograms began to disappear one by one as each of them signed off. Chelsea's comm line with Idris and Purilla remained open. Idris asked Chelsea, "How's the Neutralizers working?"

"Good," she replied. She raised an eyebrow and asked, "Why do you ask?" Idris just remained silent.

[Chronos Prime]

High orbit over Anubika
Aboard CNS Antipides, Flagship, Chronosian Fourth Fleet

Fleet Admiral Cotte blinked as Idris shouted at the arguing naval officers. He remained silent, watching as they laid out the tactics by which they would destroy the Atmoran fleet. When his fleet's role in the assault had been made clear, Cotte terminated the connection. He sat back in the chair, and stared at the ceiling. The holograms that had made the large room feel full had all dissipated, and the room had once more gone silent and black. On a whim, he ordered the computer to project the area that would soon become a battleground. Slipping a thin sliver of metal over his right index finger, he began to place tiny dots where his ships and those of his allies would be deployed. After several minutes of this, consulting the plans that had been sent out to ensure that every dot was precisely placed, he stepped back. What resulted from his efforts was a veil of points, surrounding a much denser mass of dots.

He stared intently at the cloud of dots, marveling at the symmetry. The points of light that represented the Atmoran vessels were utterly surrounded. He then waved a hand, and dots appeared amid the Atmoran fleet, representing the Chronosian and Stormwrathian vessels that would penetrate well inside the defenses of their enemies. What damage the massive rail guns aboard the Antipides could do from that range!

He spun as the door opened behind him and an aide leaned through the opening. "Pardon my, Admiral Cotte, but your presence is requested on the bridge."

Cotte nodded and cleared the hologram. He began to walk towards the door, and then thought better of it. He returned to the desk, and ordered the memory of the last thirty minutes cleared from the hologram projector's memory. That would serve to thwart even the best Atmoran hacking systems. He then strode into the hall and accompanied the aide to the bridge.

[Empire of Atmora]

Commonwealth Joint Task Force
Avand System, Daisan Quadrant, Tanabiku Galaxy, Stormwrath
18 March 2156 AD

When the CJTF Officers signed off the Atmorans stayed and continued to talk. High Admiral Campbell looked at the holographic map of the system when High Admiral Godsil said something to him: "High Admiral Campbell, what's do you want us to do?"

"High Admiral Godsil and my fellow Atmorans, I want you to get into formation. I want the Frigates and Corvettes guarding the Carriers and Capitalships. Carriers and Battlecruisers I want you to release your aerospace craft and your external ships."

"Understood, High Admiral" Said Godsil.

High Admiral Godsil turned to the Alyssa's ancilla: Marais named after the Goddess of Wisdom "Marais." the Ancilla responded "Yes High Admiral. What can I do for you?"

"Tell the CJTF Fleets to strengthn their sheilds and have our best ancilla's to attempt to hack into the enemies systems."

"Yes High Admiral."

Marais told the CJFT Fleets what they needed to do.

---

Somewhere in the Haven Galaxy, Atmora
13 March 2156 AD

Two Alexia-Class Corvettes, One Tessia-Class Supercarrier and Three Miena-Class Heavy Frigates where patroling in Tarethia Quadrant.

Two Atmoran Spacemen where looking at the scanners when a red dot appeared they quickly notified the ships officers whom then notified Rear Admiral Jorge A. Johnson. Rear Admiral Johnson ordered the squadron of ships to move in.

"All ships this Rear Admiral Jorge Avery Johnson of the TMS Elvish Justice, our scanners have picked up an Unidenified Vessel in Atmoran space also our scanners have picked up Diistaak weaponary on it. Probelm is it doesn't have an IFF tag."

The Atmoran squadron to move with shields up and weapons ready to fire at a moments notice. An ancilla was working on hacking into the ships to disable weapons and shields so the ship could be boarded and captured.

[Stormwrath]

13 Mirabatz 2567 PA – Zero Standard Date
Formal Dinner with the Ambassador of the Tophat Empire to Stormwrath
Zero Convocature, Tamarus System, Daiichi Quadrant

---

Caspian wasn't very fond of dinners as much as his predecessor was. In fact, the first few times that he attended dinner parties involving esteemed guests and other important figures have ended up in him being disconcerted – a reason why he doesn't particularly show up often during Independence Day banquets, some of the largest celebrations of the year. He looked at his digital projection of the clothes he was going to wear for tonight, a kind of formal suit with light patterns woven into it. So far he isn't sure whether he is going to wear his navy blue suit or his gray suit, as they are both suited for formal dinner meetings. He has already projected holographic images of himself in those very attires, both of them with a dashing figure. A drone has been notifying him of the time that is passing. "Your Majesty, we have less than thirty minutes before Water Caste Member X-04-1 arrives at the Palace."

After six seemingly lingering seconds – standing in front of his projections like a marble statue dating back to the Classical Era – Caspian finally picked the projection of him donning the gray coat with a dark green tie and shoes that vary in shades of brown and of leather. Immediately his ring flashed rapidly and a kind of clothing slowly generated around his body – in the clothes that he has decided on. Once his apparel was on him, he slowly strode towards the reflective surface and looked at it for a while. Indeed he was ready for the dinner party to begin. The drone suddenly flew towards the top of his head and fashion his hair – combing places on one side and applying hair gel on most of his head of threadlike formations of keratin – into that of a proper, stately coiffure. Another one came around and polished his shoes to that of a nice shine. "I guess you are ready, milord. And with twenty minutes to spare!"

"Excellent." His holoslate vibrated on the top of his dresser, and he walked over to pick it up. "Ah, Muniscus De Lunda."

"Greetings your Highness. I have just arrived at the Lilac Palace, along with the Minister of Defense. Muniscus Umbrea may be coming over here in a later time."

Caspian began walking out of his private chambers and out into one of the halls of his home. "Well he better not come later than the Tophat Ambassador – that would be rude."

"You should probably remember not to be, well, too pressing on our guest. The nation he represents has just come out of isolation, and–"

"Unless he states that the Tophat Empire is committed to our cause. They could be useful in our plans against the Atmoran Commonwealth, particularly in the Fireflower Theater against the Diistaak, or maybe with the Tanabikan Theater in the Daisan Quadrant. Especially with many of their esteemed soldiers graduating from the Imperial War Academy."

"With respect, Archemperor, I think you may have concluded that meeting with some of the galaxy's most able military admirals and fleetmasters. I doubt the Task Force will be able to include them in the counteroffensive."

"I have to hold you off for now. We will continue this discussion at supper." Ending the communication with the High Overseer, Caspian continued his way to the main lobby of his palace. Indeed the complex of rooms, halls, chambers and ornate roofs can confuse even the people who have been in and out of every single route in this magnificent building. It is also quite an impressive building in terms of size – it took more or less fifteen minutes for the Archemperor to arrive at the main hall. Not to mention he had been occasionally stopped by some palace staff, both organic sophont and machine. He was now to wait for the visitor to arrive with the ceremonial rapier, for it was now less than three minutes until arrival.

---

14 Mirabatz 2567 PA – Zero Standard Date
Cyber Warfare Division, Joint Special Operations Command of the SAF
Undisclosed Location, Tanabiku Galaxy

---

The realm of reoccurring ones and zeros — a world of codes that together form the basis of the state of cyberspace — is known to be a very important frontier for victory. Here in this realm, national sovereignty and political borders that were drawn in the physical realm fall into disuse. The Metaverse is the only soil in the entire universe that is shared by all kinds of users, Uploads, Iso-Uploads and Constructs – having no need for men in the material world to draw boundaries, or in this case – to put up firewalls and other restrictions to mark where control ends. This has made the realm of digital objects that link the cosmos together a dangerous and vulnerable medium for being a vehicle of a war that was being carried over from the physical world. Attack from cyberspace is the most likely form of attack to be used and exploited first.

Stormwrath has to get the upper hand on this theater of the war, or Avand may not go in their favor. The Watchman of the SSC – having sent the Tanabikans off to confront the assailant – had contacted the CWD to fire the first shots on the Atmoran Commonwealth forces. Unlike previous attacks on Atmoran servers and mainframes, this one is to be launched on a wide area of Atmoran information – from the most meticulous of details of the enemy's battle plans up to the information being sent out from the Atmoran Imperial Intelligence Agency and the Atmoran Imperial Armed Forces to those fighting in the overextended front lines. The AI Servitors were going to take part in the operation, in the hacking procedure and instruction to their organic counterparts. This was going to be a piece of cake, even with the beefed up security. However, it may be a little bit difficult for the best of Stormwrath's cyber hackers, as it is already close to midnight.

The solid light consoles lit up as the operators' fingers danced all over their keyboards, the holographic screens keeping track of the progress being made. The code kept on filling itself up more and more, scrolling itself down as additional code was being incorporated. Metaverse Addresses were being masked fully in the address of a location unaffiliated with the Tanabikans, and the AIs infiltrated in the manner of the Cyber Warfare Divisions of another star state. Usually a hacking operation will take a few seconds or minutes if need be, but it soon became apparent that it is going to take longer than expected. The enemy may have anticipated in some way of the attacks, and may be putting up some resistance for it. A few of the AIs observing the wealth of the intelligence gathered by the hacks were stunned by what has been unlocked.

"Let's see what we got," reported an AI Servitor as the codes kept adding, "personal information, contact data, affiliations, occupations, secret codes, there happens to be a lot of particulars that could be exploited."

"Executing download," accounted a sapient being, one along the lines of an Akrathi. A location on the screen was tapped, and the console started to download the necessary files and simultaneously upload them to the SSC and to the IAS. The Cyber Warfare Division was going to do some lasting damage to the enemy in the methods of the unseen. However, there was something that the Division may want to look out for, something that may or may not give away the chances of victory for the Tanabikans.

"Sir!," reported an AI Servitor. "Atmoran Ancillas are also having the same idea as us." The Construct was referring to Atmoran artificial intelligence attempting to tap into the Metaverse – to find an entry point into the servers of Stormwrath and access whatever they may be searching for in this realm of code.

The operator didn't appear very pleased at the news. "I thought that the security measures are already erected."

"They are!"

Another AI reported, "I think that our hacking operations may be giving our locations away. They may be seeing past our masks.

"Okay, contingency measures are to be active in the Metaverse. We don't want anything leaking out. Changing addresses now." They did so in microseconds, with AIs beginning to combat the Atmoran bugs in the system and expelling them before they even access a single byte out of the Metaverse. This was the disadvantage of securing a world that has no defined borders, no impassible barriers, and no marked out boundaries. Not even the most secure of systems can put up a decent barrier to keep trespassers' noses out. "How are our operations doing?"

"Still operational," the AI responded. "Perhaps that will be all the information needed."

"Good. Replace the Atmoran files with viruses."

"Already on it, viruses are being disguised as retrieved documents." The Atmorans are going to have a rather hard time with the concoction of rampant and corrupting series of executions of numbers and letters, fabricated by perhaps one of the most advanced breeds of cyber armies in the galaxy – perhaps one of the most feared lurking in the entire cyber-cosmos.

[Stormwrath NPCs]

Tanabiku Coalition Force in the Daisan Quadrant
5th Fleet of the Azantyrqēlosi, Outskirts of the Avand System
STATUS: Awaiting arrival of Atmoran enemy forces (as of 14 Mirabatz 2567 PA – ZST)

---

Good always wins.

The great Theaclis religious and moral adage – held in high regard by the Bladed Leaf's people and constantly recited by both young and old – has seemed to be proven false for now, its stand on the moral compass of good and evil being called into question. The light it seemed to shine is now in the process of being snuffed out by an enemy who works for the darkness; one who does not recognize the light and works constantly day and night to suppress it. It has done so in the blood of millions and billions – even trillions of innocent souls – fed to the one who dwells in the shadows. The void of space served to be a perfect canvas for the rhythm of war, though the tempo has become faster and faster. Death by the sword of violence has continued to rattle its sabers, and is prepared to take the final visages of hope from the heart of Tanabiku herself.

The Tanabiku Galactic Forum coalition forces are currently on their way to the Avand System, which is a Stormwrathian stellar system along the Tanabikan-Atmoran Front Line. Ever since Meridiem was secured from the aggressors, the TGF has decided to capitalize on a second victory in order to effectively halt the Atmoran advance into the Galactic Core area. The Confederation of the Bladed Leaf, being a signatory member of the TGF, is participating in the counteroffensive that they are planning out, as part of the proximity defense strategy. The Bladed Leaf has dispatched the 5th and 8th Fleets of the Azantyrqēlosi, with the 7th and 10th Fleets in reserve. Other nations and star states that have decided to contribute to the coalition force are the Stormwrathians, with the 2nd, 12th and 14th Fleets, with the 13th and 18th Fleet in reserve; the Teludir with their 18th and 23rd Fleets; the Estirgane with their 84th Fleet; the Vasvadne with their 43rd Fleet; and the Chronosians with their 4th Fleet.

Bladed Leaf vessels are known for using sleek organic shapes in the manner they design their warships, as it gives off a feeling of sophistication. The dreadnought Sombāzmion stood out quite well in this case, resembling an enormous emerald space whale. The 200 kilometer long vessel was the representative of the Azantyrqēlosi's power, one that has been the symbol of Bladed Leaf power for hundreds of years. It and its sister vessels – the Jelmāzmo Zaldrīzes and the Raquiarzy Ēbrion – flanked her port and starboard, while a third dreadnought – Dēmalion – sat below the Sombāzmion with its weapons tight and loaded. Fleetmaster Ascina Qēsarin, who was in the Sombāzmion's Combat Information Center, remained in front of his console – standing there with the holographic projection of the system in front of him – waiting for the go signal to be issued by the supreme commander of this counteroffensive, Stormwrathian Admiral Marcus Skagger.

Admiral Chelsea Aetolys of the 2nd Stormwrathian Fleet, a woman known for her tenacity, is elsewhere in the system with Admiral Purilla Azolla Sakar – technically a captain – and Chronosian Fleet Admiral Crusse Cotte taking up position close by. The Teludir Fleet Marshal Magur Talndasir is in a third hidden position in the system, his ships cloaked to the tune of dark energy and its invisible properties. The blips on his holographic projection were in position, the Stormwrathians in blue, the Bladed Leaf in green, the Teludir in orange, and the Estirgane and Vasvadne in cyan and yellow, respectively. The Chronosians, shown in violet, remained close to the blue blips, waiting to move towards the mass of red blips in the middle of the three-dimensional image. Indeed they are numerous, but they will fall.

"Fleetmaster," reported a spotter through a comms channel. "It looks like the aerospace craft are being sent out of the enemy first. Some smaller warships are being deployed from the capital vessels as well."

He observed as the video feed was being patched to his console. This confirmed that the Atmorans are beginning to make cautious moves in coordinating their attack against the Tanabikan Coalition Force. "How are our Azandy warbirds*?"

"In optimum condition, Fleetmaster," reported an AI Auxiliary. "We may want to wait for Admiral Skagger's go-signal."

Skagger began to do a roll call among the leading military offficials in the Coalition. They began to respond one by one. "This is Fleetmaster Qēsarin, in position."

"Admiral Chelsea Aetolys is in the area, with Fleet Admiral Crusse Cotte and Admiral Purilla Sakar ready to bring hell on these bastards."

"Fleet Marshal Magur Talndasir, ready for battle with the enemy. Say the orders." The others responded as well, with similar roll calls.

"Very well," Skagger began. "Ready the small craft for deployment, they'll take on the enemy first. Offensive divisions, ready to advance on the enemy. Keep out of sight from their scanners, do not begin to engage unless the order is given. Understood?"

"Understood."

"Aetolys, Qēsarin, Talndasir, ready your long range solid light cannons as well. Wait for my signal."

The Azairona did a unique kind of gesture to his crew, and they began to operate their consoles accordingly. "Readying the warbirds and vessels now." This was now the beginning of this battle that will turn the tables in favor of the Tanabiku Galaxy and its collective destiny. May the gods be with us in this endeavor, he hoped. The hangars of the massive titans of shaped metal began to open, and the warbirds rushed out like insects from their hive. Some of their fast attack ships were released out of their vertical docks, out into the void of space made dangerous by warfare. The ships and warbirds changed their orientation and began to engage at the Atmoran force of small craft. So far, the enemy hasn't begun to scatter; they feel that they are going to remain together, like a gigantic testudo in space. Now it is time to take the enemy on. The Coalition's ships kept themselves in motion around the enemy force.

Part of Aetolys' fleet began to separate from the main group and head for the center of the Atmoran formation. This must be Cotte and Sakar heading to their next position. This should work as the Diistaak defector had said, concerning her nanobots of devastation. Slowly did the Tanabikan vessels close in on the Atmoran fleet, enveloping the enemy in a cloud of floating metal. Skagger ordered the combined forces to activate their Improbability Drives now, which they did. This may seem quite stupid for them to utilize this – as they are practically in the same circular formation as before – however something was different now. The Drives through their combined Improbability created several metal objects out of thin air, from die cast toys to aluminum cans. This created a huge scanner registry for the Atmorans, to make them think that they are facing a more numerous force than what it really is. A master-class act of deception, indeed.

*Warbird is the Bladed Leaf term for their aerospace fighters.

[The Tophat Empire]

7th of July, 2500 AER[After Emperor's Rise]
Tophat Empire Embassy. Tidal City. Stormwrath

---

"Pilot, Prepare of takeoff in 2 minutes." Water Caste Member X-04-1 said over the embassy's PA system. She herself had just prepared the last few things before she was to leave. She was wearing her regular water caste uniform, in essence it was a Naval Officer Uniform, but in a clear white colour scheme instead of the green/brown on the Naval Version, it also lacked the shoulder piece.

X-04-1 Secured the rapier to her belt, the meter and a half long blade putting her own hight into perspective. The regular Tau where around 2.5 meters tall, both males and females. X-04-1 however where only 2,05 meters tall, short for her race. That was still relatively tall for humans and most sentient spices. But her hight still bugged her.

Making her way over to the hangar the pilot was already waiting inside the shuttle, "Where to ma'am?" the pilot asked, "Lilac Palace" X-04-1 responded, taking a seat at the table inside the shuttle. The Shuttle itself was little more then a flying meeting room. The pilot pressed some buttons on his control panels, accessing the hangar control he opened the large glossy white doors leading out of the hangar. Then proceeded to fly out of it, towards the Lilac Palace

7th of July, 2500 AER[After Emperor's Rise]
Lilac Palace. Tidal City. Stormwrath

---

The shuttle had landed at the palace some 10 minutes ago, and X-04-1 was quickly walking towards her destination, followed by her drone. The drone was made out the usual imperial material, a glossy white ceramic with black detailing. These 2 materials was used in everything from buildings, some spaceships to cutlery, and everything in between. Only the Earth Caste knew what it was made out of, but it was very strong, and existed in seamlessly unlimited quantities. So why would they not use it? The drone was about the size of a regular human head and hovered about 2 meters above the floor.

X-04-1 arrived at the door leading into the room she was suppose to meet the Stormwrathian officials in, 2 minutes left until the meting starts. She entered the room and looked around the room, then waited to be introduced. Noticing the Archemperor she started to walk towards him, stopping some 5 meters from him.

She kicked her heels together and made a salute lasting just a few seconds. She moved her right hand down to the hilt of the jet black blade. In one fluid and quick motion she drew the blade. First moving it vertically in front of her face, before changing the grip to holding it horizontally, both her hands on the blade so someone could grip the handle and remove the sword from her.

Stretching her hands, and by extension the blade, Towards the Archempror she spoke; "Archemperor of Stormwrath. Ruler of the Stormwrathian population. On behalf of the The Interstellar United Kingdom of The Tophat Empire i present this blade, Hand crafted by some of the best smiths in the Empire. As a token as good-faith and Friendship between the two nations we currently represent."

[Stormwrath]

13 Mirabatz 2567 PA – Zero Standard Date
Formal Dinner with the Ambassador of the Tophat Empire to Stormwrath
Zero Convocature, Tamarus System, Daiichi Quadrant

---

The main entrance to the Lilac Palace – which was located at the building's iconic front facade – opened before the Tophat ambassador as she entered into the palace with her assisting drone. The first thing that met her eyes was a room full of ornate decorations and carvings, along with delicately crafted glasswork and jewelry. The imposing chandelier – made of angular shapes of azure and silver metal suspended together in midair in an otherworldly fashion – dangled from the ceiling like levitating shards of diamond icicles. A yellowish-white glow complemented the visual ambience of the palace, which went well with the show of the affluence and influence of the Stormraven Dynasty. Yet she was not to remain here to bask in the sight before her, as the Tau had two minutes to meet with the Archemperor.

Caspian, along with High Overseer De Lunda, Muniscus Umbrea and Muniscus Ingalls were all standing at the middle of the large vestibule – awaiting the Tophat ambassador to arrive. The Tau was indeed taller than the Zeronian humans in front of her – she stood at least around nine to ten feet tall. She was comparable to the Draconids of New Palmaria, who stood close to eleven feet tall on average. Perhaps that may be why the door would probably be a tad too short to accommodate her inside, which may be why she had to watch her head on the way in. Her drone floated beside her and followed along as its sapient companion drew closer to the Stormwrathians. It was probably the recorder of this event, as meetings attended by Tophat Water Caste Members are to be recorded – the Stormwrathians accepting it under the condition that what is recorded should be kept under extreme care, as information like videos can become sensitive.

Umbrea may have been the first to notice their guest in the building, and therefore notified the others. "Ah yes, our visitor has arrived."

X-04-1 stopped five meters from the Archemperor and his companions, kicked her heels together and saluted Caspian for just a few seconds. He saluted back at her in response – though he held his salute much shorter than his guest – and then said to her, "Please drop the formalities."

The Tophat Ambassador proceeded to move her right hand down to reach the handle of what appears to be a sword in her sheath, and produced a jet black blade by drawing it in a quick and flowing fashion. She held it upright in front of her face, and oriented it horizontally, with both hands on the blade so Caspian may grip the handle to receive it. She spoke in Universal as she extended her arms to the Stormwrathian monarch, "Archemperor of Stormwrath, ruler of the Stormwrathian population, on behalf of the Interstellar United Kingdom of the Tophat Empires I present this blade, hand crafted by some of the best smiths in the Empire – as a token as good faith and relationship between the two nations we currently represent."

Her accent may be heavy, and she had a good grammatical sense, but at least her Universal was passible. There was no issue with the presentation so far, other than the ceremonial rapier being offered without the ornamental sheath. Indeed the blade was very impressive, with its jet black skin and its expertly decorated hilt, suggestive of Tophat handiwork. It looks like it is usable as a weapon, especially since the Stormwrathian monarch enjoys fencing with all kinds of swords, from traditional metal swords to more contemporary energy blades. The value of metal blades can be sorely underestimated by many – even the wealthiest of the wealthy see them as a luxury. Caspian seemed happy with it, as he received the ceremonial rapier and thanked X-04-1 for the excellent token. It would perhaps be a great addition to his collection of swords and other bladed melee weapons that he has in one of the palace's rooms.

"I should welcome you to the Lilac Palace, X-04-1," Caspian began. "It is an honor that you are here for this dinner that we have prepared for this evening. I am Caspian V of the House of Stormraven, Archemperor of Stormwrath. These handsome men behind my person are our companions for tonight's dinner." He then directed his attention first to De Lunda. "This is High Overseer Tobias De Lunda of the Audience of Worlds."

De Lunda extended his hand to X-04-1 and said, "It is a pleasure to meet you."

Caspian then moved his hand in front of Ingalls. "This is Muniscus Richard Ingalls, our Minister of Defense."

Ingalls' response was more formal. "Greetings, Ambassador."

He finished with Umbrea's introduction. "And this is Muniscus Lawrence Umbrea, Minister of Foreign Affairs."

Umbrea let out a pleasant greeting. "Ah yes, nice to finally meet you in person."

Clasping his hands together, the Archemperor said, "Now, this hall here is the main lobby of the palace, and there are many other rooms that I would like to show to you before we enter the dining hall. Shall we be going?"

De Lunda was less thrilled about this. As the group began to move towards the East Wing, the High Overseer put up his hand and whispered into Umbrea's ear, "Let's hope our stomachs have the patience for this proprietary tour around the place."

"Don't you mean 'palace,' High Overseer?," quietly asked Umbrea. Maybe De Lunda said it wrong.

"No, I meant 'place.' Palace is still a place, you know."

"I know that." The Foreign Affairs Minister threw his arms up into the air. "What do you think am I, a first-grader?"

"I didn't say you were."

---

14/15 Mirabatz 2567 PA – Zero Standard Date
2nd Stormwrathian Fleet, Outskirts of the Avand System
Tanabikan-Atmoran Front Line, Tanabiku Theater, Daisan Quadrant

---

Now was payback time. Stormwrathian warships pressed on towards the system steadily as they were gearing for what would turn the tables in their favor. Joining the famed ships of dark metallic gray with trims of blue light are the imposing black and orange forms of the Teludir ships of battle and the sleek emerald builds of the Bladed Leaf. The Estirgane came by with their iconic ships decorated with all kinds of ornate features that made them resemble floating cathedrals primed for war – and the Vasvadne joined them, spotted by their triangular spurs. Chelsea was feeling the excitement inside her as her mighty fleet approached the system, her vessels itching to see activity. Space warfare and its conundrums don't mean a thing to her, this is her realm. The Stormwrathian Admiral was going to take part in a Herculean effort to seize victory against a battle hardened enemy force hellbent on taking the system.

Part of her fleet – a task force led by Purilla – was going to accompany the white and red ships of Fleet Admiral Cotte's 4th Fleet (which was most likely another task force) into the belly of the Atmoran beast. Her fellow Stormwrathian commanders Admiral Marcus Skagger on the SXS Cassandra Fairs and Admiral Longinus Mason on the SXS Apocryphus – along with Qesarin, Talndasir and the commanders representing Stormwrath's co-belligerents – positioned themselves in secret throughout the system. Their purpose is to deter any more Atmoran expansion into the Tanabiku Galaxy through a show of tactical mastery and advanced weaponry. The Watchmaiden – that monster of a warship that the Intergalactic Empire calls a super-dreadnought – kept tabs on Purilla and her stealth force, which consisted of stealth corvettes, light frigates and thousands of small craft.

The Stormwrathian Admiral entered the CIC, the brain of the entire ship, with the deadeye look in her eyes and a smug on her face. Her crew immediately stood up, faced her and saluted with the utmost respect for their commander. They remained perfectly still as she paced towards the elevated platform that was reserved for her. Looking left and right at her crew and the consoles beside them, she then ordered to them, "At ease." They lowered their arms back to their side just as quickly as they instinctively were lifted up, and they sat back down to monitor their respective assignments. Sitting down on her chair with her feet kicked back, she told Bloodshot to open up some information of the enemy commanders. He did so, starting with High Admiral Godsil's data.

Her console displayed a three-dimensional holographic image of High Admiral Lexi Godsil, famed commander of the 168th Atmoran Imperial Fleet. From the looks of it the belligerents have brought some of their best and brightest with them. In fact she was able to hold her own against the likes of Admiral Arphaxad, against more or less equally skilled tacticians. Lucky for the Stormwrathian that the enemy has brought only a couple of commanders with substantial experience in strategy and in logistics – the Tanabikans can just bring them to where they want them to be and catch them off guard. Bloodshot informed her that Skagger was going to begin a roll call among the Tanabikan commanders present in the system.

Chelsea said over the comms channel, "Admiral Chelsea Aetolys is in the area, with Fleet Admiral Crusse Cotte and Admiral Purilla Sakar ready to bring hell on these bastards." One by one did the commanders of their respective fleets respond to Skagger, who then ordered, "Ready the small craft for deployment, they'll take on the enemy first. Offensive divisions, ready to advance on the enemy. Keep out of sight from their scanners, do not begin to engage unless the order is given. Understood?"

"Understood."

"Aetolys, Qēsarin, Talndasir, ready your long range solid light cannons as well. Wait for my signal."

"By midnight, Skagger?," Chelsea saw what Skagger had in mind. Her time with her former Vice Admiral was not for naught. She was proud that she is among the first witnesses of his first moments as an Admiral of his own fleet, in a ship of his command.

"Yes, ZST. When it strikes midnight at Zero, we fire the cannons."

She suddenly got off her chair and then began to address everyone in the CIC. Her voice resonated through the room well for everyone to hear. The comms channels were opened to other warships in the 2nd Fleet as well. "This is it, Myrmidons. You will be immersed in the hell that awaits us out there. Together we will bathe in the bloodbath as brothers and sisters under one cause. Together we will claim victory against the aggressors who have disturbed our peace! Should you feel the need to flee for your lives, remember under which flag you fight under, for the flag is a reflection of its men who live and die as it flies. Remember for the loved ones that you will be fighting for, that they may live in a future without fear of oppression. So you fight strong! You wanna continue to live under the blue and white of our nation's emblem? Take up your fucking arms and fight for it! Win the prize that comes from this battle: the control of the destinies of each and every one of you! Ave Stormvrathia!"

As one man they voiced out in a loud chant, "Ave Stormvrathia!" With the motivation of her subordinates behind her she yelled, "Battlestations!" Immediately the room went dark, with the consoles and the light patterns of the walls remaining lit, as the crew began to generate their suits of armor around their persons. Chelsea generated her own suit of armor as well, with the recognizable Nevermore armor of hers – which had a black, red and white color scheme that made her resemble a fearsome and monstrous demonic crow. The light pattern of red glowed on her armor as she stood in front of the holographic projection table to observe the current positions of the battle, as well as the status of her super-dreadnought Watchmaiden.

"Admiral," reported a liaison next to her, pointing towards the large red blips. "You may want to check this out on the map."

Chelsea then extended her arms to reach out to the red blips, then spread them to zoom in further to examine. The more she zoomed in, the more detailed did the blips become, until the semblance of the ships' forms became clear. She did see smaller blips coming out of the Atmoran vessels. "That must be their small craft being deployed." Turning her head she inquired, "Have our complements been released yet?"

"Some of our vessels have already released their Z-92 fighters, ma'am. They're heading to engage the Atmoran small craft."

The liaison beside Chelsea – after panning the view to focus on a particular monster ship – proceeded to tug her to make the Stormwrathian Admiral look again. This was a suicidal move, trying to get the attention of an Admiral who barks and bites. "It's not the small craft we are worried about, it's this ship." He pointed towards the mass of red light that formed a holographic image. The description on the hologram labels it as the TMS Quartz City, and it was dwarfing the surrounding capital ships. The Admiral proceeded to drag the projection of the massive vessel and place it to scale beside the projection of the Watchmaiden. Even her mighty super-dreadnought was dwarfed by this 340 kilometer monster of a ship. The Atmorans have brought in their great metal leviathan in the cosmos, which is armed with some of the best weaponry that they have ever produced in history – with massive gun turrets and millions of other weapons that are just as dangerous.

"Holy fucking shit," she remarked as she stared at the holograms. She then opened up a comms channel to Skagger and reported, "You have spotted the TMS Quartz City, right?"

"What are you talking about, Watchmaiden?," came back the response.

"Check the scanners, Cassandra Fairs." After a long pause he replied, "Okay, you may want to tell Mussitatio Domina and Antipides to commence their attack. And ready the long range Grid cannon." From his tone he can tell that the Quartz City is indeed as gargantuan as Chelsea described it.

"Roger that." She then went back to her console and opened up a channel with Purilla and Cotte in order to give them orders. She said to them, "Surge." This was the signal for them to begin going in deep into the Atmoran formation. She looked at the little digital clock display, which flashed 23:59 Zero Standard Time, which was the planet's universally coordinated time centered on the Stormwrathian city of Villanueva. The Improbability Drives activated, shifting their current positions elsewhere, and creating the huge scanner signature that the Tanabikans need for this operation to work. 50, 51, 52, the seconds counted down as the formation slowly closed in on the Atmorans. Silence filled the room for a moment. Once the clock struck midnight, and the date changed to 15 Mirabatz, Skagger then said, "Now."

Immediately the solid light cannons from the Tanabikan formation bursted to life and fired their munitions out to the Atmoran formation. These bursts of light were actually accelerated to a speed of 70 times their original speed, enough to reach the Atmoran vessels in the short period of time needed to avoid detection. Since the velocity was so fast, it reached the formation and ripped holes through some of the Atmoran ships that were hit in quick succession. From the looks of it, the initial strike on the Atmoran ships destroyed 12 of them and damaged 45 others.

[Faal Lot Himdah]

Out Skirts of Avand System, Daisan Quadrant, Tanabikan-Atmoran Front
SXS Mussitatio Domina
89th day of Felniir, in the 252nd year of Eylok

Here we go, into the fire, Purilla thought to herself as her ship lead a task force to meet up with a small force of ships under Fleet Admiral Cotte. She sat on the bridge, this was her place, from here she could see the battlefield which makes her ability much easier to harness. The Vokun Gramaan started to swarm a little around her as they picked up on her excitement, Purilla took a deep breath and the swarm calmed down a little.

It was then that she saw something, big. She took a better look, it was a ship. Damn, she thought to herself, that's one big ass ship. It was then that she heard Chelsea give the command, she smiled.

"You heard her. Prepare those grid cannon thingys to fire on the midnight mark." Purilla said to the men. A few seconds later, Skagger gave the order to fire. With that, the SXS Mussitatio Domina fired, after it fired, Purilla then looked to the big ship. She wanted to take that one down. At that moment, Raven appeared.

"Raven, get me Fleet Admiral Cotte, I have a plan." Purilla said to the AI construct of her ship.

"Understood." the construct said as it went to work, "Comms open."

"Fleet Admiral Cotte, this is Purilla, I have a plan. I need your ships to lay covering fire on the Atmorans, while I lead my ships capable of cloaking into the heart. When there, I will release a little surprise for the Atmorans, and then continue to their flank, and then open fire on them. My ships incapable of cloaking will also lay down covering fire. Do I have your support?" She said over the comm link to Fleet Admiral Cotte.

[The Diistaak Cult]

The outer reaches of the Haven Galaxy
84th day of Felniir, in the 252 year of Eylok

"Sir, Atmoran ships have been detected, they appear to be ready to engage us, and hacking us as well." A Cultist said.

The Grik, a fairly unknown Cultist Admiral, stood on the bridge. "Well, put up the walls, counter act there hacking. Meanwhile, lets engage those elven bastards. We may die, but remember, it is best to die in battle."

"Sir." the entire bridge said at once, and went to work. The patrol vessel was severly out gunned and out numbered, but never the less it open fire on the Atmoran fleet.

[Chronos Prime]

CNS Antipides, Flagship, Chronosian Fourth Fleet

Fleet Admiral Crusse Cotte strode out of the suspensor lift into the Antipides' Flag Bridge, his silver-ornamented red and white uninformed sparking in the overhead lights. "Admiral on the Bridge!" came the call, and the men not on duty came to attention and saluted their commander.

"As you were," ordered the admiral after acknowledging their salutes. He strode to the raised pair of chairs in the center of the semi-circular room and say in the leftmost seat. The other chair was occupied by Cotte's executive officer, Vice Admiral Ardelle Harcrow.

"Good day for a battle, Admiral!" said Harcrow, her blue eyes flashing.

"It is indeed," replied Cotte. "Have all the vessels reported in?"

"Yes, sir. All vessels report status green, ready for combat in all respects." Cotte nodded somberly, and glanced at the clock at the front of the room, set to Zero Standard Time in a major departure from protocol. Usually, Chronosian vessels ran off of the time at the Chronosian capital, but with such allies as Stormwrath, this procedure was being broken. The time read 23:53, seven minutes before the strike was officially set to occur. A light blinked on the armrest of Cotte's chair, and a communications officer called for his attention.

"Admiral, we have an incoming line from Admiral Purilla, encryption level 6C."

Cotte nodded, and waved his hand over the arm if the chair. "Admiral Purilla? Fleet Admiral Cotte speaking."

"Fleet Admiral Cotte, this is Purilla," came the voice of Cotte's temporary commander. "I have a plan. I need your ships to lay covering fire on the Atmorans, while I lead my ships capable of cloaking into the heart. When there, I will release a little surprise for the Atmorans, and then continue to their flank, and then open fire on them. My ships incapable of cloaking will also lay down covering fire. Do I have your support?"

Cotte gave a shallow smile. "We Chronosians will do what we do best: create maximum havoc in minimum time. Your plan is sound. We will provide cover for your advance."

"Good," replied Admiral Purilla. "Let us render these Atmorans harmless forever. Purilla out."

"May the gods be with you, Admiral." Replied Cotte, as Purilla terminated to connection. He turned to his right, and spoke to Harcrow. "That was admiral Purilla. We are to provide covering fire while her cloaked vessels advance deeper into the formation." He then stood, and addresses his men.

"Gentlemen." He waited for the quiet chatter to calm down. "We are here," he began, "to honor an agreement with our allies, Stormwrath. This is the official reason for our presence. But is that truly why this ship, this crew, is in this space today? I think not. We stand here, as defenders of peace, in a galaxy torn by war. We stand here as the proponents of justice, striving to ensure that all receive the peace that we are empowered to give them.

"But this peace can only be brought about through warfare. And so here we stand, at the end of the galaxy, ready to defend, to fight, to survive. We shall not fail.

"Every single one of you are invaluable parts in the vast machine of war. It is no matter if you are now seated at the helm of a starfighter or if you are sitting at the controls of a point-defense station, or even if you are standing now before a stove, preparing the next, and possibly last, meal of the heroes that crew this ship. All of you are just that: heroes.

"So I would like to pose a simple question to you, my heroes. Who shall win this day? Will it be those on the other side of this field if battle, with their whips and their chains? Or will it be the Crimson Dawn, the unceasing flow of might that radiates from this room? Will it be the wrong or the right? Will it be a victory for Atmora, or for Chronos Prime? Who shall triumph this day?"

"Chronos Prime!" Came the massed call from the floor around the Admiral. There was a moment of silence, and then Cotte spoke once more.

"Thank you, soldiers. My we win through this day. To your stations." The busy hubbub resumed, and final preparations were made for combat. Shells were loaded into railguns, and pilots leapt into their fighters.

"Weapons, Cotte. Are you prepared?" Called out Cotte.

"Cotte, Weapons. All is ready."

In this manner, all the watch stations reported in, until all had reported their preparedness. The clock at the front of the room read 23:57, and all was ready. Now came the battle at last.

[Arcadian Commonwealth]

Commonwealth Joint Task Force
56th Royal Fleet, RASC
Avand System, Daisan Quadrant, Tanabiku Galaxy, Stormwrath
18 March 2158 AD

Queen Ellie IX has the 56th Royal Fleet to aid the their brethren the Atmorans in the Battle of Avand. The main reason for Her Majesty Queen Ellie to send the 56th fleet is because of their alliance with Atmora and due to the fact that her sister; Her Imperial Majesty Empress Sierra II is the wife to Emperor Daral. The other reason being that the Atmorans aided the Arcadians after the Attack on Hartdale, the Arcadian capital located on the planet of Eden.

High Admiral Alexander Orchid was in the HMS Guardian of Eden's Command Center, which was located in the center of the ship and protected by a deep layer of armor. The Guardian of Eden was a modified Sierra-Class Battlecruiser brought from the Atmoran Military. Of course this was the norm for the Arcadian Military, since most of their gear was purchased from Atmora.

High Admiral Orchid was looking at the map which displayed the Commonwealth Forces in blue while the Tanabikan Forces were in red. As he was looking at the map he saw what appeared to be a very massive fleet jumping out of slip space. Mr. Orchid thought this must be trick from the Tanabikans to fool them into thinking that they brought in a large task force to deal with the Commonwealth. One of Orchid's communications officer spoke to him.

"Sir we've got a call from High Admiral Godsil on the TMS Alyssa." said the Comm officer.

"Put her through."

"Yes, sir!" the comm officer started to put in a series of commands till a holographic image of the High Admiral Godsil appeared before him.

He kneeled down and said "Suil High Admiral Godsil." He then stood up.

"Suil High Admiral Orchid. Is your fleet in position?"

"Yes it is High Admiral Godsil."

"Good I want you to activate you're long range scanners. I feel as if someone is gonna sneak up behind us and take us down quickly." Said Godsil

"As you wish High Admiral Godsil." Mr. Orchid turned to one of his men on the Guardian of Eden and said "Activate the scanners and make sure you check everything. Even if it's a little off. One small error could lead to our downfall."

[The Tophat Empire]

13 Mirabatz 2567 PA/2500 AER[After Emperor's Rise]
Lilac Palace. Tidal City. Stormwrath

"The pleasure is mine High Overseer" X-04-1 responded, shaking his hand before moving on the two others, when the introductions went on to Ingalls X-04-1 response was in the form of a small bow and the words "Greetings Minister of Defense" before finally saying "Indeed, Minister Umbrea", to conclude the introductions.

She followed the arch emperor as he showed her around, there where a few things that stood about the Tau, the first thing was her way of walking, she did not walk, she marched. another thing was how she held her right hand at the now empty swords sheet, as if she was still gripping the handle. The black glove clad hand placed exactly where the hilt would be, had it not been handed over mere minutes ago. but it was clear she was no threat, but mealy exercising a habit. Behind and above her the drone hovered, seemingly uninterested in the whole thing

---

13 Mirabatz 2567 PA/2500 AER[After Emperor's Rise]
Tauun Orbital shipyard 1241, Command Centre 53. Tauun System. The Tophat Empire

The command centre was a myriad of activity, orders had come from the Emperor. The 20th and 45th fleet where to be resupplied and readied for active duty, that meant that over 1000 ships had to be loaded and group up. But this caused little in the way of actual problems, Orbital shipyard 1241 had the capacity to service around 3000 ships, and most of the staff had waited for a point when they could do something big, and taking care of 2 full fleets certainly was something. Looking out of the windows of the command centre a impressive view meet the eye, where ever you looked there where the white (and occasional black) ships of the TIIN, thousands of them.

One of the logistical officers sitting in the command centre rose from his chair and walked over to the commanding officer "Shas´vre, the last of the ocras and mantas have bee loaded. the 20th fleet 1st detachment is requesting permission to unlock and head to organization point Alpha-Zeta". The Shas´vre turned to the logistical officer, nodded and said "Good, it will be interesting to see how how enemys take to those new weapons. tell the 1st detachment that they are are clear to leave. Inform Space command. Get to it Shas´la"

The Shas´la made a quick salute before returning to his post to execute his orders. As he looked out he could not help but to wonder how all the captains, officers and troopers on those ships felt in this moment

[Empire of Atmora]

Commonwealth Joint Task Force
Avand System, Daisan Quadrant, Tanabiku Galaxy, Stormwrath
18 March 2158 AD

After the call ended between RASC High Admiral Orchid. An alarm went off, something was being shot at the TMS Alyssa. High Admiral Godsil barked to her officers in the bridge of the Alyssa to target the vessel that fired upon the Atmoran Capital Ship. When the enemy vessel was located the TMS Alyssa painted the vessel so the CJTF vessels could fire at the CNS Antipides.

When Godsil's fleet gave the green light that their weapons are ready to fire at her will. A Comm Officer typed in commands so that the following ships in Godsil's command could all fire at once at the Antipides. Godsil barked to fire all weaponry at the Chronosian ship. Simultaneously Godsil's Imperial Fleet fired at the Antipides. The Alyssa's scanned the area to find more enemy ships and prepare to fire once again.

---

Somewhere in the Haven Galaxy, Atmoran Inner-Colonies
13 March 2158 AD

Rear Admiral Johnson ordered the 89th Imperial Fleet to fire an overcharged hardlight shot at the Diistaak Patrol vessel to weaken its sheilds and then to disable the vessel's engines so that Red Eagle Sabber Commpany could board the Patrol vessel.

The TMS Elvish Justice, TMS Terathian Knight and TMS Guardian of Grinad fired overcharged hardlight at the Patrol vessel and then started to hammer the vessels engines.

The TMS Elven Knight a Tessia-Class Supercarrier released her aerospace craft to harass the enemy vessel.

OoC: Sorry for shortness

[Stormwrath]

13 Mirabatz 2567 PA – Zero Standard Date
Formal Dinner with the Ambassador of the Tophat Empire to Stormwrath
Zero Convocature, Tamarus System, Daiichi Quadrant

---

De Lunda and Umbrea were already looking at the Tau funny as they casually walked inside the East Wing, which is where the dining hall is located. X-04-1 just seemed to march instead of walk as she continued to follow the Stormwrathians as the Archemperor was showing his guest around. Caspian opened the door to a certain room saying, "This is the art room, which is like a mini-museum inside the Lilac Palace. This room has been around since the olden times, since we Stormravens have a taste for the arts." The group entered the hall, and they were greeted by a room of polished wood – filled with several paintings, sculptures and even boxes playing certain musical compositions. A few literary works can be also seen inside the art hall. Caspian continued to show X-04-1 around the room.

"As you may know, some of the works here were created by my grandfather. You may have heard of Archemperor Percival, right? I think so, since I remember your tenure as ambassador to Stormwrath began in his reign. He has quite a love for painting." He then directed the Water Caste member's attention to a particular painting of a young woman. "This one in particular, is a painting of his wife and consort, Celeste. Of course, you may say that she is my grandmother. The painting was created more than a century ago, since you can tell that she looks quite young." The drone that the ambassador brought with her hovered in front of the portrait, taking some time to record it.

Umbrea remarked as he looked on the portrait of a young Eloise, "This painting, too. She was the face of our bond with Atmora, and now that bond was tarnished." The drone took some seconds to record it as well.

De Lunda on the other hand was looking at a picture of a seven-course meal, which may have made his stomach rumble. "Wow, I'm surprised that looking at this depiction of the food you may find in a five-star restaurant can make you hungrier than before."

Ingalls concurred at the High Overseer's words. "I mean, just look at how realistic that Agron Beef is painted! It's like you could just reach for it…"

Caspian noticed him about to touch the painting and got his attention. "Ehem, please. No touching. The dinner will begin soon enough."

"Awww," the three men slumped. It was probably going to take a while before they actually make it to the dinner hall. Caspian then led the group to another exhibit in the art room, this time it was a certain metal structure. Red and silver pieces of chrome seemed to be suspended in midair, as if without any strings being attached to it. "This sculpture makes you think of how orderly our universe is, don't you think? The planets in orbit around a star without any sign of sudden collision, the spiral galaxies all shaped like pinwheels, it makes you wonder if the things that scientists say about chance are factual."

"There you go again," Ingalls groaned. "Trying to say deep things that do not make any sense. Come on, you're not your grandfather."

"What?," the Archemperor defended himself. "My mother wished that I was more like him. Even if I didn't make sense of what I'm saying, at least I get to be enlightened and all, to make sense about the things in the universe."

"Enlightened? What is this, the 17th Century PA?"

"You'd be very surprised at how enlightenment applies to our time, Muniscus Ingalls." The group proceeded to view a few more exhibits in the room before finally moving on to the next room. It was rather interesting that the Stormwrathians used music to complement their paintings – to give the portraits life through the ambience of sound, they describe it. Each painting has its own music player that sets the mood and forces the viewer to "slow down" and appreciate the art of imprinting pigments onto a canvas via the use of assorted brushed.

Along the way to the tea room of the palace, De Lunda asked the Tau a rather stupid question. "Forgive me if I may seem so culturally ignorant in your eyes, but is your nation name pronounced 'top-hat' or 'to-phat'?"

Umbrea interjected, "I can't believe you get confused over that! Everyone knows that it is pronounced as 'to-phat', right?"

"No it's not," Ingalls disagreed. "It's 'top-hat'."

"So you're telling me that you say it as 'top-hat', as in top hat?"

"Who on Zero even says 'to-phat' anyway?" It may look like the cabinet Ministers may be in a heated argument over the pronunciation.

"Tell me Ingalls, does 'top-hat' sound as genuine as 'to-phat'?"

"What does genuineness have to do with it? Everyone knows that 'to-phat' sounds ridiculous compared to 'top-hat'. I know several of my colleagues who say it like that."

---

15 Mirabatz 2567 PA – Zero Standard Date
2nd Stormwrathian Fleet, Outskirts of the Avand System
Tanabikan-Atmoran Front Line, Tanabiku Theater, Daisan Quadrant

---

Purilla's task force may be taking a beating as of now, with the Chronosian ships caught up in the crosshairs of the Atmoran formation, particularly Godsil's forces. Slowly did the Atmoran formation react to the attack by converging at a certain point where the task force is currently at. Oddly enough, this wasn't part of the plan – as the task force was supposed to slip through the enemy lines undetected – yet this may be a golden opportunity to defeat them quickly. By focusing on Purilla's forces, Chelsea deduced, the Atmorans may have completely forgot about the large Tanabikan force surrounding them at this moment. This was an opportunity that the Stormwrathian Admiral may not want to pass up. Quickly did she communicate the order given to Purilla and Cotte to "decloak now since they have been found." Immediately did the task force come into view of the Atmoran forces, and they accelerated to get close to the Atmoran vessels. The guns of the enemy have fired, but they still held together.

Chelsea later reported to Skagger over the comms, "Looks like they're focusing on Purilla's band of vessels – giving us the chance to attack the formation again." The blips on her three-dimensional holographic display affirmed this, as the bows of the Atmoran vessels began to point towards where Purilla and Cotte are located. From observation, the CNS Antipides, flagship of the 4th Chronosian Fleet, sustained much of the bulk of Atmora's fighting power. Perhaps the Atmorans have forgotten that the other enemy ships are out there in the open, surrounding them at this very moment. Skagger responded, "Ready the turrets for rapid solid light barrage."

"Aye, sir." Redirecting her attention to the rest of her crew she commanded, "Let's light 'em up while they're looking the other way!"

"Preparing for rapid solid light barrage," announced one of the crew members in the CIC, manipulating a certain knob display on his console. "Configuring turrets to five-round burst fire, conversion rate of light reserves increased by 450%."

The Watchmaiden adjusted her turret's bearings towards the Atmoran force with the rest of her sister ships and her escorts. The task force on the other hand also readied their Improbability Missiles, since they were now within close range for them to be used effectively. Clicking into place they adjusted their guns at their specified targets, and It was a tense moment, since any slight miscalculation by a fraction of a fraction of an angle – or by a fraction of a fraction of a decimal value – could mean a miss by kilometers. This was the Tanabikans' moment to strike.

Once the word "Fire" left her lips like the shot of a cannon, the 2nd Fleet became the vehicle to make her words deal lasting damage. Five short bursts of light came out from each turret, and rapidly left the ships for the Atmoran formation once more. The other allied fleets present in the battle also fired theirs in the same manner. Like greased lightning they ripped through the darkness and came upon the Atmoran force like the wrath of the supreme beings of the universe, and took down even more enemy vessels – with another 37 enemy ships destroyed, including 4 capital ships, and another 72 severely damaged. Meanwhile, Purilla's task force deployed their own solid light bursts as well as their Improbability Missile Pods. Such missiles are known to bypass even the toughest of energy shielding and strike the enemy's armor directly – having been equipped with a Finite Improbability Drive to achieve this.

Skagger now gave his new set of orders. "Offensive fleets, close on the Atmoran formation now. I repeat, close on them now. Support fleets, hold your positions until I signal you to join us."

"It will be done, Admiral." Chelsea turned and commanded, "Let's get at 'em! I want no Atmoran ship to slip past us, no matter what! Get within medium-range turret range. Purilla, Cotte, continue to head to point Beacon."

Bloodshot announced on her console, "Grid harnessers increasing current velocity to 600,000 meters per second. 1,000,000 meters per second. 1,500,000 meters per second." The main force of the 2nd Fleet was now beginning to charge their way towards the Atmoran forces – the 12th Stormwrathian Fleet, the 18th Teludir Fleet and the 5th Fleet of the Azantyrqēlosi moving at exactly the same time with them. The vessels continued to fire their solid light barrages at the enemy vessels as they continued to attempt to waste Purilla's force of a couple of hundred ships. Chelsea ordered her men in the CIC, "Deploy the small craft."

"Aye, ma'am. Readying small craft now." The Watchmaiden's hangars were already teeming with life, and pilots jumped into their space fighters. At the same time, the area was being cleared of obstacles so that the pilots can deploy their craft safely into the now-dangerous void of space, where there is no such thing as safety. One by one did the winged vehicles exit the hangar like rockets, and head for the Atmoran formation to harass them. Stealth corvette vessels accompanied the small craft on their way to the heart of the enemy, as if to deal a lasting blow head-on. The fast attack vessels were the first ones out of the offensive group, as they were easily maneuverable – perfect weapons to outlast the gargantuan enemy ships in combat.

[The Tophat Empire]

13 Mirabatz 2567 PA/2500 AER[After Emperor's Rise]
Lilac Palace. Tidal City. Stormwrath

X-04-1 followed the Archemperor around, she enjoyed the arts, so she did count her deployment here are a blessing, or she would if she was religious. when Caspian asked about his grandfather X-04-1 was a bit shocked, for she was sure the Archemperor knew about the way the empire used names "Archemperor Percival, I am afraid i did never meet him, he was before my time. I thought you where aware of this, but the empire utilizes 3 names so to speak. First we have the Designation, in my case X-04-1. This indicates my exact position in my caste. Then we have the Imperial Name, mine is; Aun'la Por'o T'au Kovash Mont'yr. This indicates our home, cast, and position. as well as the names given for our achievements. Then lastly we have our soul name, the name give at birth by our parents. i will not reveal mine as it is considered the ultimate expression of friendship and intimacy to do so."

X-04-1 took a small pause to let this new information sink in before speaking again "So while i share both my designation and Imperial name with my predecessor, the first due to the office we both have, the latter by coincidence. My soul name is much different." by this time the 3 ministers had just drooled over a painting, something that did not impress the tau, but she hid it behind a façade.

As the emperor and some of the misters got into a small squabble, first over the emperors poetic side, and then later over teh correct way to pronounce the name of the nation that the Tau represented, X-04-1 could not help but to wonder exactly what relation the Archemperor and his advisor had, they sounded like more like a band of friends then the leader and advisor's of a very powerful nation, but she wrote it off as a cultural thing, she remember reading that Stormwrath was a nation with a bigger focus on the individual, where as the tophat empire focused on the whole. True as it was, seeing as the nations unofficial-official motto was "Aur'ocy shath'r'i tskan sha Tau'va." meaning "Unity comes to all things, in time". With the important word being "Tau'va", also meaning "For the betterment of all". A important, if not the most important part of Tophat Society.

Noticing a slight pause in the argument she inserted herself into the argument, "Gentlemen, You are all both correct, and wrong. We do not exactly know where the name comes from, as there are only written records of when it was taken, written in the dead language "ancient Tauun", where the written symbol for the word "Tophat" has several meaning depending on how you pronounce it, as Top-Hat it means Everlasting, or united. As "To-phat" it means "Renown" or "Forged in fire", this was also the name of the house that the first emperor came from, back when we had noble houses, although the symbol was different. Produced as "Toph-at" it means glorious. Finally we have the place that today houses the imperial Palace, know as "Ras-nith-tpat" in ancient Tauun, or "Ground of Unification" in common. where the "Tpat" part might have evolved into Tophat"

Once more X-04-1 took a pause, letting this history lesson she had given them sink in before speaking "As you can hear there are several different ways the name could come from, but all pronunciations are accepted. I hope that answer the question."

[Chronos Prime]

CNS Antipides, Flagship, Chronosian Fourth Fleet

"Cotte, Sensors. The Atmorans are concentrating on us!" yelled a voice through the chaotic shuddering of the massive battlecruiser. The solid light cannons of the Atmoran vessels slammed into the thick hull of the red-painted battlewagon, scorching the elaborate paintwork and smashing huge dents in the hull.

Cotte stood. "Then let's give them a taste of their own damn medicine. Railbanks twelve through sixteen, concentrate on the cruiser at point 5-3. Nine through eleven, point 5-12. Seventeen though twenty-five, the capital ship at 9-4. Blast them to hell and back, if you would."

Immediately, the long banks of rail guns arrayed along the axis of the Antipides began to fire. The computerized fire-control system focused the hundreds of plasma-dispatching shells on the selected ships, and then ripple-fired the weapons. A wave of destruction swept out of the flanks of the Antipides, screaming across the void and then impacting in massive fireballs against the distant hulls of the enemy. Mixed among the plasma shells were kinetic shells, extremely dense hunks of metal flung at nearly twice the speed as the other shells. When a point on the other hull became weak, a trio of rail guns fire their loads, containing isolated antimatter.

Each discharged within two milliseconds, courtesy of extremely precise electronics. The three shells sped across the expanse of space, and neared the frigate. As they did so, the sensors inside each calculated the gravitational fields of the explosions and the increasingly clear silhouette of the ship itself. As it neared, the timers counted down. And then, at a distance of twenty-eight meters from the hull, the timers reached zero. The isolation chambers for the antimatter disabled, and it tore free of the strong magnetic fields that had held it in suspension. One meter from the hull of the frigate, each contacted the shell casing.

An immense explosion tore through side of the ship moments later, exposing the inside of the ship to the harsh extremes of space and the continuing plasma barrage from the Antipides. Any and all men near to the breach boiled away in a flash.

With a successful kill under her belt, and Antipides' guns turned to a new target, raining a barrage of hard death and hot fire upon another unfortunate victim. They left the battered hulk of the stone-dead Miena-class heavy frigate drifting in the emptiness.

At this point, the fire control officers on the bridge stepped back from their controls. The AI now had a feel for the strength of the enemy's armor, and they released their controls and handed the ship over to it. Now, the rail guns literally acted with a mind of their own as the ship's intelligent computers weighed threats, calculated risks, and then concentrated fire. In under a minute, they had disabled or completely destroyed twelve more Atmoran vessels. But slowly, the constant impact of projectiles on the Antipides was taking its toll. The nuclear counter-explosives and plasma shields that had been intercepting many of the inbound weapons could not stop all of the rain of steel, and the Antipides had begun to lose rail guns. First went part of bank two, then the last twelve guns of bank nine. And with the loss of weapons the Antipides began to wreak less damage on the Atmoran aggressors.

But the guns of the Antipides would not stop firing, for her mission was to wreak as much damage as possible, and the attract as much fire as possible. For a greater weapon than her even now approached the Atmoran fleet. And though they did not know it, their doom was at hand.

[Faal Lot Himdah]

Out Skirts of Avand System, Daisan Quadrant, Tanabikan-Atmoran Front
SXS Mussitatio Domina
89th day of Felniir, in the 252nd year of Eylok

So, the elves have noticed the Chronosians. Good. Purilla thought as the cloaked ships under her command and her ship slowly made their way undetected into the belly of the beast. It was then that the rest of the Coalition force began it's attack on the Atmorans.

"Ma'am, what should we do?" one of the crew asked.

Purilla stood there and thought. They where in a good position, but it is not the position she wanted. She wanted to be at the heart by time the attack began again. She smiled, she had a plan.

"I want all cloaked vessels to spread out, make it seem random. On my order one ship will uncloak, fire a quick barrage, and then cloak again. Then as the first ship is changing position, I want another ship to do the same. And we will repeat this over and over again. In theory, it will make our numbers seem greater." Purilla said with great confidence to the crew. They looked back at her with disbelief. "Trust me. That's an order." Purilla told the crew

She waited until all of the cloaked vessels under her command where in position. When they where all in position she smiled and gave the order, "Commence attack."

With that the cloaked ships took turns uncloaking to fire a quick barrage and then re-cloaking. From a distance, it would look as if stars had started to twinkle. As this assault kept going, the SXS Mussitatio Domina made it's way to the heart of the formation.

"In position." One of the crew said. Purilla looked to them all, and smiled a devious smile. A smile that could give men nightmares.

"Raven. Are the packages ready?" Purilla asked the construct.

"Yes. The packages are ready Purilla." Raven said.

"Perfect." Purilla said, then looking to the crew, "Let's give these guests something to remember."

"Yes ma'am." The crew said as they got ready, "Uncloaking. Releasing the packages.... Now."

Suddenly in the heart of the Atmoran formation, the SXS Mussitatio Domina uncloaked. Out of it, 6 missiles seemed to fire in all directions, and a black substances rose from where they fired, surrounding the ship. The missiles each made their way to the nearest 6 Atmoran vessels, exploding before they reached them, releasing more of a black substance. The substance that surrounded the ship then seemed to harden, creating a secondary shield. Then it all activated. The Vokun Gramaan had been released.

Meanwhile, on the SXS Mussitatio Domina, Purilla had begun to concentrate. She took a couple deep breaths and muttered something inaudible. She then took a seat.

"I want all ships continuing their attacks." She said to the crew, "Also prepare to fire our weapons, the Vokun Gramaan surrounding the ship will create a hole for our weapons to fire through as they fire."

Purilla then closed her eyes as she took control of the Vokun Gramaan. She sent them all to the closest Atmoran Vessels, one of which was the HMS Guardian of Eden. You elves now get to face my wrath, Purilla thought as she smiled an evil smile.

[The Diistaak Cult]

The outer reaches of the Haven Galaxy
84th day of Felniir, in the 252 year of Eylok

"Sir. Engines are damaged, we are dead in space." A cultist said as the Atmorans continued their assault on the Diistaak Patrol Vessel.

"Keep firing on them." The Grik said, then he grabbed the intercom system, "All Cultists, prepare for a fight. Arm up. We will die for the Cult."

The Patrol Vessel continued to fire on the Atmorans. The vessels Vomun Fighters scrambled to counter the Atmoran fighters.

(OOC: Cultist posts will generally be kept short)