Twilight of the Galaxy: Reloaded (IC, Open)

[The V O I D]

Jakala - Todval System
Core Regions
Tagali Federation

Victus and Remrayed listened to the description of the Selinian government with some interest. It was an interesting form of government, to say the least. The Crown Prince and the Viceroy both began speaking to each other such that their translators didn't tell the Selinians what they were saying. The private discussion only lasted a few moments, however, as after a moment, Victus smiled slightly as Remrayed decided to speak.

"I'm sure that whenever it is time for dinner or what have you at this gala, that we will be able to exchange more information with each other.", the Viceroy said, keeping his smile.

---

---

Valduir - Malchor System
Edge Systems
The Conglomerate

The Board was on holographic display before Ambassadorial Officer Grovak Thaorn. Well, not really; more like, he was in a live holo-screen chat with the Board's silhouettes. The Board of Directors for the Conglomerate, as a whole, were secretive and had secret identities. They were also CEOs of their corporations and subsidiaries as well as owners of any systems or planets that a specific corporation owned and used. The only people who knew the identities of the Board would likely be their corporation's CFO and COO, who both had permission to run things for the CEO in his absence; the CEO sometimes anonymously led his company. The Board was elected into power by their corporations' sub-boards. They did a double-blind voting system to ensure total anonymity of the Board. This kept the mysterious, absolute leadership of the Conglomerate a secret.

"Grovak Thaorn, AO to the United Nations of Sol as well as to the Cho'Dosan Covenant. We want you to invite our friends in those nations to Sayran. Yes, Sayran; our 'official' capital. We're going to be meeting with them, in a sense; with you present, of course, as well as other AOs and the Chief Ambassadorial Officer.", Director Six said. The Board was formed up of about eleven silhouettes by the looks of it. Representing the eleven most powerful corporations in the entire Conglomerate; lesser Corporations negotiated with the Board's corporations, as well as the Board, to get laws passed; but it was entirely up to the Board as a whole. Director Nine's head tilted slightly.

"Oh, and Thaorn? We need the Covenant more than the UNS. The Covenant gives us military protections ontop of the UCAB that we can't afford to lose. Negotiating a mutually beneficial trade and economic deal would benefit us greater, yes; but we cannot accept a dissolution of alliance. So, to make it perfectly clear; if anything goes wrong, your employment will be... terminated. Are we understood?", Nine said. Grovak gulped, nodding heavily. The Board, seemingly satisfied with this answer, shut off communications with the Ambassadorial Officer. Grovak sighed, and began preparing messages to be sent to the respective governments in question. Obviously, they would have separate meeting times close together, so as to not cause a conflict of interest. Once the messages were sent, Grovak found himself boarding a ship and headed to Sayran.

To: The Cho'Dosan Covenant
From: Ambassadorial Officer Grovak Thaorn, with the Conglomerate Board of Directors' Authority
SECURITY: HIGH

Dearest Friends in the Covenant,

It has come to the Board's attention that some of our treaties are in need of renewal, as well as the fact that the Board would like to negotiate some new lucrative economic and trade deals with your civilization. The Board has invited you to Sayran, the capital of the Conglomerate, to personally meet with them as well as myself and a few other Ambassadorial Officers. The Board is prepared for this meeting, and a Cho'Dosan ambassador's arrival, should you accept in: 3 Standard Days.

We hope you consider this invitation.

Regards,
Ambassadorial Officer Grovak Thaorn
Representative of the Conglomerate Board of Directors

To: The United Nations of Sol
From: Ambassadorial Officer Grovak Thaorn, with the Conglomerate Board of Directors' Authority
SECURITY: HIGH

Dear Friends of Sol,

It has come to the Board's attention that some of our treaties are in need of renewal, as well as the fact that the Board would like to negotiate some new lucrative economic and trade deals with your civilization. The Board has invited you to Sayran, the capital of the Conglomerate, to personally meet with them as well as myself and a few other Ambassadorial Officers. The Board is prepared for this meeting, and a Human ambassador's arrival, should you accept in: Two Standard Weeks.

We hope you consider this invitation.

Regards,
Ambassadorial Officer Grovak Thaorn
Representative of the Conglomerate Board of Directors

[The Moscow Metro Red Line]

Jakala planetary ring habitat installation - Chalkuze City - Jakala - Todval System

"Of course." Ambassdor Aieme spoke and returned a smile as well. "If you are ever interested in the importation of the Prophet System, please do let our Government know. However we would need to do a thorough study of your species's brain structure along with a few dozen test subjects." The Ambassador wondered if there was anything else to talk about to these the Zhyrrian Commonwealth people. "Perhaps some of your traders have been to the ASR and I was unaware of it. In that case it would be easier to know if your species is compatible with the current build of the Prophet System. It would definitely make integration much more easier."

Judicator Kerianh glanced once again at the drones, it seems as if their holo-disguises were working perfectly well and without a glitch. Of course it was easy to tell for her since she is used to seeing holo-disguised enforcer drones and can tell the difference, but for most others they seemed like living and breathing individuals.

[Veroxia]

The Opening of Doors

---

"The banners of the KRE wave gloriously on our shining skyscrapers, honoring our mission to greatness. Those who oppose our mission will be decimated by our armies."
-High Colonel Jut Tern

---

Marcadia/Koros/Capital System

Despite having been isolated from most of the galaxy, the city of Marcadia was a magnificent work of art for many. Its buildings and sites reconstructed many milennia ago; buildings once constructed from stone are now replaced with strong and flexible glass, neon colors covering every edge and corner. The chrome color that had covered the walkways and roads added the effect of the city being a work of art.

The city itself was found to be organized in a unique fashion, with certain portions identified as 'commercial' sectors, recreational, or military. Though, the military sectors were more heavily guarded; with a much more larger and combined presence of different Korosian soldiers, including the feared Heavy Units and the honorable Korosian Guards. They did not take tresspassers kindly, along with their xenophobia of anyone that doesn't look human or machine, they were infamous for...unethical means of combat.

The former executive seat in Marcadia was transformed into a large fortress, within such a complex resided Emperor X-5 and his loyal guard; only those trusted were permitted inside. Not even the Cho'Dosan, a people the Korosians have encountered and acquainted with have not seen the ghastly sight of X-5. Though, that may change soon.

After recent meetings between the KRE and Covenant, the Korosian High Command along with approval from the Emperor; the Korosians have decided to search for other civilizations unknown in their presence. The Cho'Dosan people were an encouragement, appearing much like humans despite their blue pigmentation of skin and red-tinted eyes; accepted as a result of human evolution of sorts by the KRE.

Inside of a communication station, after an agreement made by Korosian leaders; this station was one if many scattered across the empire to make public transmissions across the galaxy, though many of these were sent through non-military systems or ones not of major importance in order to cover up installations or data the Korosians did not want circulating around the galaxy. The message would be sent in English, Binary, and the Galactic Standard.

Staff faciliating the stations were all given the OK by officials, and had sent this message:

To All Residing This Galaxy

Greetings,
We are the Korosians, once human...now machine. We seek to open our horizons to the rest of the galaxy, so that we may understand and possibly benefit all. We hope we reach contact to some of you soon...

KOROSIAN COMMUNICATION AGENCY
APPROVED BY KIF COMMAND

[The New Earth Federation]

"Yes, I hope for good relations between our two nations. So what does your nation produce in terms of industry and products? I was thinking that we could open up a small trading agreement to both improve relations and open up new markets on our economies"

"Hm. Well, the Bureau mainly produces resources mined from across its territory along with various non-magic reliant products made using those resources such as building materials. And a trading agreement could be a good idea."

"Good, the Federation produces a lot of industrial materials, weapons, starships, technology, and foodstuffs. We are quite the industrial nation this allows us to produce quite the considerable amount of products for trade and internal use. Is there anymore questions you have?"

[Dansha]

"Hm. Well, the Bureau mainly produces resources mined from across its territory along with various non-magic reliant products made using those resources such as building materials. And a trading agreement could be a good idea."

"Good, the Federation produces a lot of industrial materials, weapons, starships, technology, and foodstuffs. We are quite the industrial nation this allows us to produce quite the considerable amount of products for trade and internal use. Is there anymore questions you have?"

"Not at this time. It was a pleasure talking with you." Ankold answers.

[The New Earth Federation]

"Good, the Federation produces a lot of industrial materials, weapons, starships, technology, and foodstuffs. We are quite the industrial nation this allows us to produce quite the considerable amount of products for trade and internal use. Is there anymore questions you have?"

"Not at this time. It was a pleasure talking with you." Ankold answers.

"Very well, it was nice to meet you" replied Jacobs he turned to his assistant and spoke to him "Please list the Bureau on the trade agreement list"

"Yes sir"

[Plzen]

(Image)
To: The United Nations of Sol
From: Ambassadorial Officer Grovak Thaorn, with the Conglomerate Board of Directors' Authority
SECURITY: HIGH

Dear Friends of Sol,

It has come to the Board's attention that some of our treaties are in need of renewal, as well as the fact that the Board would like to negotiate some new lucrative economic and trade deals with your civilization. The Board has invited you to Sayran, the capital of the Conglomerate, to personally meet with them as well as myself and a few other Ambassadorial Officers. The Board is prepared for this meeting, and a Human ambassador's arrival, should you accept in: Two Standard Weeks.

We hope you consider this invitation.

Regards,
Ambassadorial Officer Grovak Thaorn
Representative of the Conglomerate Board of Directors

United Nations Headquarters, Geneva, Earth, United Nations of Sol,
11:24 Earth Standard Time, 15 January 2341 CE

"Goodness," droned the Secretary-General. "Not this again."

The Conglomerate simply did not seem to understand that, barring exceptional circumstances, the United Nations did not negotiate with corporate entities. Especially foreign corporations, which the United Nations did not even subcontract to.

"Office?"

The secretarial AI assistant attached to the Secretary-General's office whirred to life.

"Yes, Secretary-General?"

"Please inform the Conglomerate that the United Nations have not, does not, and never will have its economic policy affected by foreign corporate interests, no matter how many times they ask. If they don't like the tariffs and the Credit Stamp Duty, then they can stop selling in the United Nations."

The Credit Stamp Duty, first introduced after the 2174 financial crisis and modified multiple times hence, was the United Nations' way of shielding its domestic economy from the unpredictable tides of galactic commerce. It effectively levied a light tax on all currency exchanges between the United Nations Credit and a foreign currency, any United Nations Credits brought into or out of the United Nations, as well as all transactions made within the borders of the United Nations using a foreign currency.

Although seventeen years of Liberal administrations have whittled the tax to almost nothing - just 3.7% - it was still a powerful incentive to force corporations that made their money in the UNS, to also spend it in the UNS. And if it also disincentives foreign corporations from investing in the UNS, well... that was the price you paid.

"And - this is off the record, by the way - if we deregulated the UNS economy any further, then the Social Democrats and their angry mobs will carry the next elections for sure. They're strong enough as it is right now."

The Social Democrats were the most vocal opponents to the Liberal move to lower the Credit Stamp Duty. One of their core campaign promises was a restoration of the tax to what it was seventeen years ago - 15.4%. And, of course, increase to the tariff, the income tax, the corporate tax...

"Understood, Secretary-General," the AI assistant replied, beginning to draft a response.

Ambassadorial Officer Grovak Thaorn, of the Conglomerate Board of Directors' Authority,

The United Nations of Sol will, as per our principles of free competition and a non-mercantile economy, not provide unusual favours concerning its economic and financial agreements with a non-state entity. Should the Conglomerate seek to advise the regulations and laws of the United Nations of Sol towards more favourable dispositions to the Conglomerate, or directly negotiate various matters with the United Nations, the United Nations advises the Conglomerate to do so through normal United Nations channels and relevant Ministries of the United Nations.

Regards,

Jun-chul Chang,
Secretary General,
United Nations

[The Moscow Metro Red Line]

The Voice of the People - The Daily Broadcast of the GKU

A bright image appeared on the screen of every holo-screen in the Greater Krastikan Union. The image that was shown was a news station with two Krastikans dressed in similar gray uniforms and a moving picture of the Capital city in the background. All broadcasts and radio channels were monitored in the GKU. Having an illegal channel or holo-broadcast is punishable by life in labor camps or a death sentence. If anyone in the GKU is listening to a foreign broadcast or watching foreign media, it is twenty years of hard labor in the reformation camps.

"Greetings Loyal Citizens of the GKU this is the Voice of the People. The official news network sanctioned by the GKU Government and blessed by the Supreme Leader." The male Krastikan anchor spoke in a monotone voice towards the viewer. "In this segment of the broadcast, we cut to a speech being given by the Supreme Leader to the workers of the 105th Armament Factory in Ziost. Please stand-by and hear the great words of our Supreme Leader." The holo-feed cut from the news station to the outside of some planetin the GKU. The skies of the planet were dark green and was very cloudy. The whole surface of the planet was covered in dark grey metal as intrusive metal towers stuck out from the surface like spikes and numerous smoke stacks covered them. There were harsh red lights which covered the surface and ships flying around the numerous structures like flies over a carcass. The video then cut to the scene where thousands upon thousands of factory workers were looking towards the Supreme Leader who was standing behind a podium with three large banners of the GKU behind him. Ereanas Sxhtra Mo'Krastikan, the Supreme Leader and the President of the GKU, looked confident behind the podium and had an unwavering defiant expression on his face.

"Brothers and sisters of Krastika!" He yelled loudly to the workers. "Children of Khora and Children of Kleandro! Hear me! For today I come to this humble factory to tell you of our great progress towards peace! Your work today by providing the Union Defense Forces their daily ammunition as helped improved the security of our Union! No longer will we hide in our cities and cower in our homes! Now we shall be the aggressor and we shall reclaim our rightful inheritance to the Galaxy!"

A great monstrous cheer came from the crowd of fatigued factory workers and numerous gray hard helmets and forage caps flew into the air in response to the proclamation. "Glory to the Union!"

"While our toils will be hard today, let me remind you that hard work is good work. We know the meaning of struggles and hardship better than anyone else in the Galaxy! Those soft and pudgy humans of the UNS couldn't even lift a piece of steel even if their life depended on it! So reliant they are on their robot servants that they have become fat and lazy like livestock. And while the hard work of the Galactic Alliance is to be commended, the profits of the people are ripped from them by their rich Overlords!"

"Take out the blood-suckers!"

"We have built a great nation from the ashes of ruin my brothers, sisters and children. As the great father of the nation, I am very impressed by all of your work in these recent years! And with this joy I am proud to announce that the great minds of our generation are planning to introduce new machinery which will improve the manufacturing rate of the nation! While this news may be so sudden to our fine craftsmen, let me remind you that a craftsmen work is just as valued as ten automated assembly lines!"

"Glory to the Union!"

"Continue to work hard and work gladly my children! For one day your work will begin the great reclamation of this galaxy and restore the Krastikan people to their rightful place in this galaxy! Glory to the Union!" As soon as Ereanas Sxhtra Mo'Krastikan finished his speech the entire assembly of workers cheered again and the holo-vid focused on their cheering and crying faces. This was the image to the shown to the people in the Union. However mighty Ereanas Sxhtra Mo'Krastikan was and how the people adored their leader who was a god among them. The image then came back to the news station prior.

"What an arousing speech by our Supreme Leader". The female Khorasmian anchor spoke in a cheerful tone. "In our next segment we will talk about the latest law passed in the UNS that allows their robots to own humans as their own pets. We will come back to you after the following music segments."

[The Greater Gambia]

Draugo Waystation, Uncharted Regions

"Very well, we will give up our weapons," Captain Kai said. She would hand her weaponry to the robot.

As the others did the same, Kai would ask,"Before we proceed any further, could you please identify yourself as well?"

Chalsolis, Tagali Federation

At this point, there were 85 Covenant ships that were still capable of fighting, with the rest either completely destroyed or so severely damaged that they could no longer fight. Tens of thousands of Covenant military personnel, including many high-ranking officers had been killed. The fight was chaotic for the Covenant, as their formations had been broken once more. Fighting now occurred at fairly close ranges with the Maug-Lai fleet, who still outnumbered the Covenant fleet. Iso'ko gave orders whenever he could, but he was busy fighting the Maug-Lai boarding parties aboard his own battleship, which by this point was a losing fight for the Covenant. The Covenant fleet had been unable to form a cohesive attack against the battlecruisers surrounding the flagship, as there were still many enemy light ships protecting them.

Then, suddenly, reinforcements arrived in the Chal system. 500 Maug-Lai ships in total had arrive, and they closed near the remaining Covenant ships, but did not open fire. They demanded that the Covenant fleet surrender immediately and power down their vessels. There was now mass panic aboard the Covenant ships, and the admiral received many messages regarding whether or not the Covenant would surrender, but he was unable to respond.

Iso'ko, some officers, and various marines had gotten caught in one of the traps the Maug-Lai had set. Metal rods launched all over the place, piercing and killing many of the officers and soldier. A rod pierced Iso'ko in his lower spine, paralyzing him from the waist down and causing extreme pain in the rest of his body.

At this point, the admiral knew that it was over- if he refused to surrender, the fleet would be destroyed by the enemy reinforcements, and the battleship would soon be taken over by the Maug-Lai. At the same time, he knew that surrender was viewed as dishonorable in the Covenant, and he could not surrender to an enemy he despised so much. So, he decided not to message the rest of the fleet with a decision, leaving them to decide for themselves. However, there was one thing he could do before the Maug-Lai found him.

He switched the channel on his comlink so that only those aboard the battleship would hear him. "All personnel...this is the admiral speaking," he began. "You have all fought valiantly today, but...the battle is lost. Abandon ship immediately- I repeat, abandon ship immediately. To the engineering department- scuttle the ship. Disable the safety protocols and allow the reactor to blow."

After he finished speaking, a group of Maug-Lai warriors entered the area. One of them, who appeared to be a high-ranking warrior, asked Iso'ko who was leading the vessel, as he wanted to request their surrender.

Despite being in pain, Iso'ko had a sinister grin on his face. He turned on his universal translator so that the warrior could understand him. "The Federation will suffer...for what has happened here today. Prepare yourself for the coming storm..."

Right as he finished, alarms began to sound throughout the battleship. Near where the antimatter reactor was located, the engineering department had sealed themselves off from the Maug-Lai boarding parties and were now disabling the safety protocols that kept the antimatter reactor from overheating. Coolant began to draw away from the reactor, and the antimatter magnetic containment fields began to weaken, beginning the runaway reaction between the antimatter and matter inside the reactor. This was what signaled the alarms to go off inside the battleship. After they were finished, the engineers headed to the escape pods and abandoned the ship.

Qanar flagship, "Fist of the War Totem"

"Noble Warlord, we're detecting energy spikes coming from the Covenant vessel. They're trying to overload its core!" Tachala scoffed at the move.

"A brave yet futile decision." Tachala said. "It will not save their comrades if they do not surrender. Recall our Warriors. If they do not return to the ship within the hour, then their fate is up to the Totems."

Back on board the ship....

"Chieftain, the Noble Warlord has recalled us back to the ship. The Cho'Kata are attempting to destroy the ship." The Chieftain looked down at the Admiral.

"Clever little rat..." The Chieftain looked back at his men.

"Grab this one. The Warlord may have use for him." One of the Maug-Lai Warriors grabbed Admiral, throwing him over his shoulder as they returned to the boarding spikes. The order to retreat quickly spread throughout the Maug-Lai boarding parties. Many of them were able to escape, but some, either too injured, pinned down by the remaining Cho'Dosan Defenders, or too consumed with blood lust remained behind, doomed to the same fate as many of the remaining Covenant Soldiers.

Tachala ordered the Boarding spikes to be pulled back into the ship, depressurizing large swaths of the doomed Covenant Ship and killing anyone who was near them. Tachala ordered the fleet to get to a safe distance as to avoid the Ship's blast. Maug-Lai dropships were sent out to collect any life pods that would launch, either to rescue any of their brothers who reached the boarding pods too late, or to capture any Cho'Dosan who thought they would wrongly think they could find safety in the void of space than the bloody death trap the ship was becoming.

Tachala, enjoying the satisfaction that victory was at hand, was about to receive another round of good fortune. Four warriors entered the bridge, kneeling down before the Warlord. One of them threw down someone, the now paralyzed Admiral of the Cho'Dosan Fleet.

"Noble Warlord, we captured the enemy leader aboard his ship." One of the Warriors said. Tachala smiled.

"The Totems favor us by granting us such a grand victory this day. Send a message to the Crown Prince. Tell him we have cut off the head of our prey." As the warriors carried out their mission, Tachala grabbed the Admiral by his neck as a female wolf would carry her young. Tachala pointed him towards the view port. The Admiral saw the remnants of his fleet, either fighting for their lives or their ships now dead husks. Maug-Lai Tokads and Mechs used the dead Covenant ships as cover against the few remaining Covenant Fighters.

"Look, Admiral. Look at what your ignorance has wrought. Countless of your men dead by our beams and blades. Let this be a lessen for you as to never trespass in Maug-Lai or Federation territory ever again. Luckily for you, you will not get the chance to....."

Ultimatum of Surrender to the remaining Covenant Forces in the Chal System from Crowned Prince M'Cholka

"My patience is wearing thin, Cho'Kata. Your vessels, minds, and bodies lie broken. Our numbers and strength overshadow your weak, and we have even captured your Leader. You have the next five minutes to give me your surrender, or we will kill you all!"

As soon as the ultimatum was sent out, the ships of M'Cholka's fleet began to power up their weapons. Ready to unleash them upon the remnants of the Covenant Fleet.

[The Orson Empire]

Sayran, Conglomerate Space

For decades, the Covenant had ties to the Conglomerate, a corporatocracy and an economic powerhouse in their area of the galaxy. They were notable for their heavy involvement in galactic trade, as well as the secrecy of their Board of Directors. There were many people in the Covenant that did not trust the Conglomerate due to their foreign policy, their involvement in the black market, and their involvement in the slave trade- however, ever since Asir came into power, he established even closer ties with the Conglomerate than his predecessors.

With the Conglomerate now wanting to renew their economic and trade deals with the Covenant, Lestor Pers'Av (chief Minister of Foreign Relations) was sent to the Conglomerate capital of Sayran to meet with the Board.

Pers'Av's diplomatic ship arrived in orbit around Sayran; a hail was sent out, alerting the Board of his arrival.

Chalsolis, Tagali Federation

After receiving the ultimatum of surrender from Crowned Prince M'Cholka, the commodores (who were right below the admiral in rank) held a very quick meeting over the comms to discuss how to proceed. The fleet would certainly be destroyed by the Maug-Lai if they continued to resist, and some commodores suggested retreating back to Covenant space rather than surrendering. However, they quickly realized that they had already violated the orders of High Command by trespassing in Federation space; rather than reporting the admiral for insubordination, the commodores, in a fit of anger after the destruction of the asteroid colonies, had chosen to go along with the admiral. They could never return to Covenant space, or they would certainly be put on trial for insubordination. With time running out, each commodore sent a message indicating the surrender of their squadrons to the Maug-Lai fleet. Fighter-bombers and transports, which had been sent out to collect the escape pods, were recalled back to their ships, and the guns went silent on all Covenant ships.

At this point, most of the crew on the admiral's battleship had been evacuated, but there were still hundreds of people left on board; they had barricaded themselves in various rooms and even the air ducts of the ship in order to avoid being hunted down by the Maug-Lai. Many escape pods had been rescued, but many had also been captured by Maug-Lai dropships. The boarding spikes had also been withdrawn, and the Maug-Lai ships would move away from the battleship; the battleship quickly depressurized, and some unlucky Cho'Dosans were sucked out into space.

Meanwhile, the admiral had been taken as a prisoner of war to the Maug-Lai flagship. He had managed to pull the rod out of his back with his still-functioning hands, and was now bleeding heavily from the wound in his back. Everything quickly became fuzzy as he slowly bled to death. He was able to make out some of the ships in his fleet, but the conversations between the Maug-Lai sounded like gibberish. Then, the admiral was thrown down on the flagship. He stumbled around for a few seconds before falling down to the ground, unconscious and close to dying.

Those still aboard the battleship, whether they were Cho'Dosan or Maug-Lai, would never escape. The runaway reaction in the reactor reached a point where all of the antimatter and all of the matter annihilated each other at once.

In a fraction of a second, the entire 8-kilometer long battleship was destroyed in a tremendous explosion. Millions of tiny pieces from the battleship were launched in all directions at near-relativistic speeds, impacting and damaging both Covenant and Maug-Lai ships; some pieces from the battleship also entered the atmosphere of Chalsolis, but burned up in the planet's atmosphere. The explosion was so bright that it could be seen on the surface of Chalsolis, as well as hundreds of thousands of kilometers away in space; those who witness the explosion of battleship aboard the Covenant ships were nearly blinded by it.

[The V O I D]

Sayran - Sayran System
Core Systems
The Conglomerate

With the arrival of Pers'Av and his diplomatic ship and crew, the Board of Directors were alerted. The Board Complex, as the capital building on Sayran was referred to, was immediately prepared; Conglomerate minor officials (such as minor CEOs, the CAOs, and the many AOs) were filling the Board Room. The Covenant ships were given the clear to land immediately, near the Board Complex. After they were escorted to land near the Complex, the diplomats would be met with several Lyvirks designed to mimic and appear as perfect copies of Cho'Dosans. The only thing that made them easily detectable as Lyvirks was their obviously synthetic eyes. It was a known fact that the Conglomerate did this as a formality, as well as to comfort foreigners who were coming to meet with governmental officials. One of the Lyvirks stepped forward, offering a diplomatic smile. He spoke fluid Cho'Dosan.

"Hello, I am your escort today. I will be taking you to the Grand Room within the Complex, for your meeting with the Board and other Conglomerate officials. If you need anything, please simply activate the transceiver.", the Lyvirk finished, offering a transceiver to Pers'Av, as well as other transceivers to the other various Cho'Dosan officials. The Lyvirks then turned, bringing them towards the Complex. There were UCAB Board Protectors (equivalent to 'honor guard' or 'high guard' or 'royal guard') on either side of the path as they made their way into the Complex. Once within, the Lyvirks led them down the halls, and up a flight of automated stairs; then down one last hall. Once in the Grand Room, the Lyvirks pulled out chairs for the Cho'Dosan party; there was exactly enough for the Cho'Dosan diplomats. Before them sat many officials, obviously ambassadorial officers, CEOs, among others based on their uniforms. At the end of the long table, a large holoscreen opened up. The eleven Directors appeared on the screen, as it divided into eleven parts. Each one was numbered in both Cho'Dosan and Syrng format.

"Hello. Thank you for agreeing to meet with us. Shall we begin?", the distorted, mysterious voice of Director One said. It was obviously One because the voice-indicator 'lit up' his screen slightly to indicate it was One who was speaking. The other Directors simply nodded in agreement with One. Director Ten's eyes seemed to focus on Pers'Av, as if with interest. They were silhouetted, although their eyes - usually red or purple, like all Syrng - were not. It was odd how they managed to make this work with such precision. The Directors seemed to wait for the Cho'Dosans to begin the meeting with what they wanted, and what they offered. This was usually done by the Conglomerate as a means to establish what the deal was being presented, so that they could analyze it and modify it if they felt it was necessary.

[True Refuge]

-snip

"Oh yes, I must thank your people for the shipments." Councilor Lahira said.

"While they've been spread out across the Federation, they've mostly been used by the Huo. Recently, a planet of their's was struck by a deadly meteor shower. Many Millions were killed and injured. While official Federation Emergency Relief Groups were able to come to their aid, our methods were simply overwhelmed. The introduction of Bitek greatly reduced the strain on our systems and saved a lot of lives. The Huo and the Federation owe the Ruin a great debt." Fleet Matriarch Cazira cared little about the plight of the Huo, but the uses of Bitek could greatly help her people.

"Dear Representative, what is this new creation of yours?"

"I remember that quite well," Madeline replied with just a slight edge of pride. "We had to have our production stations work overtime to supply enough bitek medical packages. It forced us to expand to meet all that demand so next time there's a crisis in the Federation we'll do it in a far more efficient manner." She raised an eyebrow a teensy bit. "Of course, due to the expansion, we're in surplus and feeling quite charitable, if you're so inclined, Councillor."

Before a response could be made, Madeline swirled around and extended an arm to the tuxedo-wearing bodyguard. Its wine glass was as of the moment untouched, and a small plate of appetisers was untouched. It turned its head slightly to the left, putting the group in sight.

"As of our newest bitek species, here it is."

The servitor stood up and strode towards them. The movement was so efficient it could nearly be described as robotic, and the closer it got the more it appeared so. It had a humanoid shape, but instead of skin there was the hard exoskeleton. Despite the hard shell, its fingers moved as dexterously as a human's as they straightened its jacket's cufflinks. The suit indeed needed straightening, since the servitor's muscles looked as if they might have burst out of the sleeves at any moment. It towered over Madeline and the councillors' by more than a foot. With long strides, it took a position to the left of Madeline and inclined its head.

"Councillors," it stated respectfully. The voice was slightly bland, yet not entirely devoid of colour.

"We call them servitors, or in this case, the military variant. Incredibly durable, loyal and equipped with affinity." She smiled curtly at the councillors and continued. "Inhuman accuracy, communication and essentially one of our MAX armour suits. We're also exploring a possibility to give them personalities of people, living and deceased, to make them more agreeable with normal soldiers. This particular one has the Lord of Ruin's."

"Indeed," the servitor drawled. "Although less intelligent, I am just as blunt. Madeline, next please."

"Yes. The newest discoveries in biteknology are not too important. Is there a particular representative around here that would make discussions of a joint research project fruitful?"

---

Tranquillity Station
Pacem, The Ruin

To: T'Rehu Louis

Ambassador,

Professor Radeheol is charged with trespassing on government property, yes. Additionally, the professor has been charged with attempting to commit espionage with the purpose of obtaining protected state secrets. The punishment, if he is found guilty, will be subjection to interrogation nanonics to erase any secrets found during his time in the bitek production station.

His reason for being in the station rather than his official accommodation, the educational institutions and/or other recreational areas located within my shell is unclear. The professor's movements over the few hours before his entrance into the production station are suspicious, perhaps reflecting someone under the influence of alcohol, although this is not certain.

The Lord of Ruin looks forward to your legal team's arrival.

Regards,
Tranquillity Station.

[Alinora]

- GALACTIC ALLIANCE -

---

Terra Nova | Alahra System | Galactic Alliance

---

The first Alinoran colony, Terra Nova is a lush garden world and home to nearly a billion people - 79% of which are human. It is covered in diverse landcapes and ecosystems, with crystal blue oceans. Dotting the landscape are various cities, though most are small and built around their environment, rather than on Alinor, where nature was completely slaughtered to make way for the ever-expanding cities. Today, Alinor is a city-planet, with very little in the way of nature. Terra Nova, however, has retained it's beauty for thousands of years, while simultaneously becoming one of the largest military ports in the entire Alliance. A massive ring, spanning around the entire planet holds nearly 30,000 ships of the Alliance 6th Fleet. It is the epicenter for preparations to invade the Krasitkan Union - a dictatorship known for it's brutal, totalitarian rule. Over the years, it has gone unchecked, and has never had to answer for it's many Crimes Against Life, but the Alliance Senate has made a decision: free the Krasitkan people.

---

"All I'm saying is, I'm ready to kill me some Reds baby"

Daniel chuckled at Ulba's remark as he cleaned the barrel of his assault rifle with a wet rag. He and the others, Marines of the 1st Expeditionary Force, gathered in the barracks of the AWS Tiberius, a troop carrier, in the Ring orbiting Terra Nova. For Daniel, it wasn't too far from home for he lived planetside, but for many of his buddies, it was a long way from the prairie. War was coming, and they hoped they were ready. "You know," Daniel began, "I've never been in a major clash between real armies before. I mean, the largest battle any of us have been in was in the Sephakhus Nebula against Ledena's pirate fleets."

"Yeah and we fucked her shit all up" added Tysus, a big, muscular Meuron with a deep, raspy voice. "We tore her fleet up in about an hour - sent her armies fleeing down to Atticus Prime, where we dropped in and kicked their asses. Right Danny? Tell the newbie about it."

"Yes we did." Daniel said, looking to Ulba, who was new to the unit. "Though, it wasn't exactly easy. They hunkered down in the capital with about three million civvies, so we couldn't orbie. We had to crawl through a mile and a half of sewage and detonate their underground fuel reserves to let Third Battalion storm the walls with the Army."

"Dan got shit in his mouth" added Tysus with a chuckle.

"Man fuck you - you splashed it in my face and you know it."

"Oh fuck yes, I remember that" said Ajax, who'd just entered the room. "Funniest part was, we didn't have any water cause Gunny thought our kits would get stuck in the tunnel."

The men chuckled for a few moments, but an eerie quiet set over the Marines. They were about to go to war, and the reality was finally beginning to settle. Daniel was the first to speak. "Brass says the UDF is shit, so there's no need to worry to much - hell they say the war should be over in a week or less. Just watch out for each other and do what has to be done so we can get home. Oohrah?"

"OOHRAH!" they shouted.

[Nazeroth]

Cult of Kr'orn

Primary Outer Realm Beachhead, Forces of Kr'orn
Interdimensional Beachhead

The world below the mashed fleet of heretical vessels glowed with an unnatural hew, the primary dimensional breach had collapsed after the world was taken but it had severely warped the planet and even the wildlife around ground zero,the animals bent to the dark being's will in flesh and mind, in it's place a massive temple adorned with black marble rose into the sky, surrounded by the ashes of the former civilization. Man and Xeno moved across the hell scape as green and red void lightning crackled in the sky, tampered with the touch of Kr'orn. The sky was plastered a crimson red. This world was beyond redemption. It's inhabitants tired and fanatical, what was left of the planet's military garrison were now re purposed to fanatical warriors. Their tanks and guns adorned with the Mark of Kr'orn and whatever incomprehensible language the black god spoke was burned into the equipment. From here the flames of war would spread....from here the Dark Titan would devour this galaxy. A great blood orgy approached and Kr'orns thirst for sacrifice knew no mortal bounds. In the temple acolytes and other religious leaders whispered madly into a fresh dimensional breach, K'rorns mad whispers eating at their sanity. Whatever was on the other end of that mysterious pool of dim light he knew were beings of indescribable power. Thule, a former soldier of the planets military, gazed upon them before leaving the massive fortress of a cathedral. He felt somewhat weak, no doubt suffering from a little malnutrition along with many others.

He had joined the cultists near the wars end as a means to survive and he did. Picking the winning side was easy when the abominations began pouring through the portals. He became a believe in the power of Kr'orn and his will to dominate all life. Thule had even received a gift, his eye sight. His eyes were always bad but a gaze into the abyss cured them. With that gift came sacrifice, a low whisper beckoned him at times, even when he slept. It was deep whisper with power beyond it's lips. He had been tainted, but he accepted it as a way ahead...the promise of power was always in the back of his head and loyalty would bring him ever closer to that. He hefted a assault rifle, adorned with heretical marks, a weapon that had seen combat from two continents.

Thule stepped onto a worn out dropship before being brought into space to the fleet above. Kr'orn hungered and his bellows were more than mere mortals could fathom. Some said that enough sacrifices would allow him to enter our dimension, others believe that his goals is to uplift the galaxy, some were just twisted and reveled in the war mongering he brought. He said down and looked at the other cultists, some were normal, others beyond corrupted, wild eyed berserkers with nothing but their life to give to the black titan of the outer realm...

[The Moscow Metro Red Line]

The Residence of Ereanas Sxhtra Mo'Krastikan - Krastika Prime - GKU

"Please do tell me of odds that our nation can survive an assault by the Galactic Alliance military."

A meeting of the political elites and top military strategists and generals gathered in the Residence of Ereanas Sxhtra Mo'Krastikan. The room they gathered in was the main dinning room of the Estate. The Residence of Ereanas Sxhtra Mo'Krastikan, the Supreme Leader and the President of the GKU, was very large and extensive. It was built into the side of a mountain and had a very clear view of the capital city around it. This particular mountain residence used to be a Great Fortress which was used by the Krastikan Warlords of yore. This Great Fortress was placed on this mountain so that it can overlook the entire city. These days it is residence of the Supreme Leader where his divine gaze looks over the capital. The dinning room was hexagonal in shape and all the people gathered sat around a hexagonal table as they discussed the impending situation.

One of the Krastikans on the table who was wearing a dark robe leaned closer to center. "Lieutenant General Xenter, the Galactic Alliance military is merely a large stick that the Galactic Alliance government likes to wave around to make itself feel safer with the other powers next to it. Besides should the Galactic Alliance even think about invading, they have to acknowledge that it would take months if not weeks for them to reach the GKU. By that time we would already be aware of their plans and intentions with our spies and informants in the surrounding systems around the GKU."

"Perhaps that is your opinion Vice Admiral, but this large stick has been rugged and tested over time." Another of the Krastikans spoke, this one wearing an military uniform and carried a pistol hostler on his left side. "They far outnumber us and their equipment is much more sophisticated them ours. Our military would crumble before theirs with our current status. They have the bodies and the equipment to occupy the entire GKU with not much losses on their side."

"Party General Secretary Malxia, I must insist that should the Galactic Alliance invade we must consider the direst of options." Another Krastikan in a military uniform spoke urgently to the Krastikan wearing a black tunic with a pin of the Hejuc Party on its label.

"Yes perhaps we should plan for the worst case scenario, Major General Sicilie. That being said we must be aware that some leaders in certain positions in the government and in the military would try to defect to the invaders. Most likely to save their own hides and ensure a place in the occupational government." The Party General Secretary spoke calmly to the rest of the Krastikans.

"I shall have my party security officers ready then, Party General Secretary, to ensure that everyone remains in line for this worst of all scenarios." Another Krastikan in a military uniform spoke.

"We only need to make them pay a great cost of invading our nation. Perhaps some of our brave soldiers need to be sacrificed in order to ensure the continuing prosperity and sovereignty of the nation. Perhaps we only need to give the Galactic Alliance enough ground where it will think it has already won. And once we have all their forces clumped together in some areas, we merely use our superweapons to completely decimate them." Another Krastikan in a military uniform spoke with smug look on his face.

"Yes, if we kill as many of them as possible they will have to withdraw from their campaign!" Lieutenant General Xenter yelled aloud to the rest of the people on the table.

"Hold on, do we have the number of weapons required to pull off such a feat?" An Krastikan with a brown white robe spoke after he took a sip from the glass of yellow liquid infront of him.

"We will and we will have to very soon. Those Galactic Alliance dogs will come in the hundred thousands and we must make sure that their blood fertilizes our sands for centuries." The Party General Secretary replied. "What do you think, Supreme Leader?" Everyone at the table turned to the lone Krastikan who was standing near the window and was overlooking the capital city. He turned to face the assembled leaders and had a stern look on his face.

"Do you really believe that our military can win a conventional fight against a numerically and technologically superior foe?"

"......."

"That's what I thought. And that is the precise reason why I believe we should do the following after hearing this long discussion about the security of the nation. It is inevitable that our military will be crushed. However let us remember the roots of our military as a guerrilla force. When we fought against the Warlords, we never fought on their terms. We fought on our own." He turned to face the rest of the others at the table. "Should the Galactic Alliance chose to invade before our superweapon quota and strength can be achieved, we shall begin a great plan which will ensure the total humiliation of the Galactic Alliance. Please read and understand the following information that is going to be sent to you now." There was a chorus of clicks around the table as all the Krastikans took our their data tablets and looked at the information displayed. "For this plan to work and ensure our security, you must follow the precise instructions as outlined by my plans."

[Alinora]

- GALACTIC ALLIANCE -

---

Alinor | Soala System | Galactic Alliance

---

Inside the massive Senate Dome, where the leaders of each world and system convened, the atmosphere was static and excited, for the time was fast approaching when the Galactic Alliance would make it's move to liberate the people of the Krasitkan Union. While smooth, calming music played through the Chamber, Senators talked amongst themselves and awaited the Chancellor, who would be giving the speech that ushered in the vote to declare war. Around them, the total metropolitan world of Alinor bustled with life - constant movement and activity that had come to give it names such as "the world that never sleeps" and "planet of lights". It has also come to be known as the "Heart of the Free World", and a beacon of democracy and galactic culture. Within the Senate Chamber, the music was cut, and the ramblings of conversing Senators quickly died down to silence. A frail old man hovered to the center of the chamber aboard a platfrom: Chancellor Vestus. All eyes, from thousands of species and worlds, turned to him and awaited the words to be spoken that would decide the future of the Krasitkan people. "Ladies and Gentlemen, friends and allies from all worlds of this Galactic Alliance, thank you for appearing here today."

"We stand here today, a free people, to help decide the future of those who cannot say the same. We are fortunate to live here, in a place where every individual regardless of race, religion, origin, or past are able to live free without discrimination or oppression - where it is the people who make the nation's decisions, not a dictator, but there are many in this Galaxy who face oppression to an extent that many of us could not possibly fathom. We all know the crimes committed by the current regime in power, and as free people we have a responsibility to protect the freedom, liberty, and to ensure the peaceful survival and existence of others. The most basic rights of existence have been stripped and violated for the Krasitkan people, and the existence of such a tyrannical government is a stain on the galaxy, and it is embarrassing that the nations of the galaxy have tolerated it's behavior for this long. Though under normal circumstances, the actions of an un-allied sovereign nation would be none of our business, the increased number of threats directed at our nation and people have raised suspicion, and we are forced to act in the name of all free people." The Chancellor paused. "That is why, members of the Galactic Alliance Senate, I call you to vote: war, or no war. The protection of individual rights and liberties against genocidal oppression, or ignoring a problem to focus on matters within our own nation that are indeed also pressing. Friends, vote with your heart, but vote with your minds as well. Good luck."

For a moment, there were mumblings among the Senators, but the Chamber quickly went silent as the members began to vote. From one of many observation decks, Psaec Master Garris and his padawan Ishmael Ascher overlooked the Senate Chamber and watched it's members decide between peace and war. "War with the Krasitkans could possibly leave us vulnerable to Covenant attack. These are dangerous waters were are heading to, we must tread carefully."

Ascher shrugged. "The Reds have it coming." He turned his head to look at Master Garris. "Plus, the UDF is all buff - they can't possibly stand up to an Alliance invasion. Give it a week, they'll buckle."

"Don't be so sure, young one. Never underestimate the enemy - they'll use that to their advantage."

Ascher grunted and crossed his arms, and refocused his attention on the Chamber that seemed to be gearing up for the vote results. The Chancellor seemed to be analyzing the results. After a few minutes, the vote had finalized, and the Chancellor read the report. He then cleared his throat, taking a tall stance and crossing his arms behind his back as he delivered the news of the results.

"On behalf of the Alliance Senate, as Chancellor, I hereby declare a state of War against the Krasitkan Union."

---

AWS Phalanx | Orbit of Terra Nova |Alahra System | Galactic Alliance

---

"... hereby declare a state of War against the Krasitkan Union."

Admiral Mercer Titus, commander of the 5th Fleet, nodded as the speech came through and began to speak over fleet comms. "It's time. Move into formation boys, we're going to war." 30,000 ships broke off from their docks in the ring around Terra Nova and moved into position - preparing to enter FTL. Standing aboard an Alliance Hyperdreadnought, which served as the flagship of the 5th Fleet, Admiral Titus awaited the wormhole generators to activate, so that they could enter slipspace. He watched thousands of smaller vessels shoot off in a beam of light and vanish among the stars before a purple ray of light shot out in front of the Hyperdreadnought, and it entered. The fleet was underway.

Roughly 4 hours later, massive Alliance fleets would tear out of FTL outside of Krastika Prime and the other major planets of the sectors, and begin engaging UDF fleets...

[Federal Corporation of Commerce]

can I active role-play

[Zeon Refounded]

(Image)
Jakala planetary ring habitat installation - Chalkuze City - Jakala - Todval System

Colonel Kreul looked at the Tagali Homeguardsmen and bowed his head politely. "I'm sorry for the intrusion. I'll try to not make the same disturbance against in the Gala." As Colonel Kreul looked around at the representatives at the Gala a certain group of humans caught his eye. They were wearing some sort of green military uniforms and talking to other humans. They should be interesting to talk to, Colonel Kreul thought as he walked towards them.

When he approached them he saluted and spoke, "I am Party Security Colonel Kreul Mo'Sevigh of the Greater Krastikan Union. Your uniform does not look familiar to me nor does your nation. Tell me, which nation do you hail from?" He was eager to brag about the greatness of the GKU to this stranger. However the person that this human in military uniform was talking too had a familiar air to it.

The green uniformed men turned to the Colonel. A black uniformed man, that was clearly in charge, walked out from among them. He responded, "Greetings Colonel Mo'Sevigh. I am a vice admiral of the Principality of Zeon. I am called Kotz." After dismissing his subordinates, he asked the Colonel, "So what is the Union like? I am very curious."

"Naturally," replied Niels Rasmussen. "With the United Nations being the way it is today, not having top notch AI production would ruin us, would it not?"

The representative paused, gathering his thoughts.

Multi-species polities. Interesting. Quite unthinkable in the United Nations.

"Anyways, it is that time of the decade again in the United Nations," he continued. "Everybody is feverishly preparing for the next General Elections. The Social Democrats are polling strongly, but I think the Liberals will keep holding the government. Perhaps I will even run for Secretary-General."

Kitz nodded. This human was interesting to talk to. As he appeared to have ambition, further character investigation was deemed necessary."You seem like a capable man. What party do you support, Social Democrats or Liberals? Or maybe... Charterists? I'm curious."

[Plzen]

Kitz nodded. This human was interesting to talk to. As he appeared to have ambition, further character investigation was deemed necessary."You seem like a capable man. What party do you support, Social Democrats or Liberals? Or maybe... Charterists? I'm curious."

"Myself?"

Niels was surprised by the question. A foreign representative probing into the internal politics of a nation... well, it wasn't that rare. But still odd.

"Why, I'm well-known in the United Nations to be a member of the Social-Democratic Workers' Front. The only reason why I'm still around is because the Secretary-General values my experience."

After a short pause, Niels decided to ask a question of his own.

"I take it that you're interested in the politics of the United Nations?"

[Yekrenia]

Dasan 97

Upon Planet Dasan 97, there seemed to have been a slow transition from morning to afternoon, which was exemplified by the rain clouds blocking out the sun like a massive grey blanket upon mother nature itself. Evenly, the emissions of steam gushed into the sky in a calm yet linear-like manner as it left the industrial smokestacks of a geothermal power plant. In fact, there were more industrial smokestacks scattered about, which could only belong to an industrial city.

Known by the locals as, Huo Shan Lei ("火山蕾"), the city is inhabited by approximately three million people, and this city is one of the many Dasian establishments that contribute to the Dasian Union's industrial might and economy as well. Specifically, Huo Shan Lei is specialised in textile manufacturing, and on top of such a major industry, the city is also one of the few dozen university towns to provide university-level education on Planet Dasan 97. Plus, as the city's name implies in translation, Huo Shan Lei sits on top of a geothermal hot spot right on the edge of one of Planet Dasan 97's northern mountainous tectonic ridges.

Not surprisingly, Huo Shan Lei is home to more than four geothermal power plants under state ownership, along with the assistance of a single hydroelectric dam located at the tip of a Y-shaped river just south of the city. As true of the Dasian Union's racial purity (and the high fertility rate as well), Dasians are the only species to inhabit the city itself, and with that being said, public housing estates tower above to join city skyline with the industrial smokestacks. Though with the afternoon approaching the halfway maker of another workday, this also meant that there came the end of another school day as one o'clock came along.

Though as industrious and productive the city may be, the presence of the Dasian Paramilitary Police was omnipotent as true with the totalitarian nature of the Dasian Union itself. Evidently, one of these public housing estates were under the attack of the Dasian secret police, the People's Republican Dasian Guards ("人民島國的共和國衛隊"), under the suspicion of criminal evasion and information piracy. Security Lorries have already surrounded the public housing estate from all directions to cut off any escape and give the People's Republican Dasian Guards full coverage of the building from every angle.

One of the paramilitary police officers, Ai Jian Peng, emerged from the ground floor with one of the building's residents, which was a young male in both handcuffs and a cloth bag tied tightly around his head to hide his face and gag him; however, he was not the first to be arrested from the raid. Just over the time lapse of an hour, more than 362 people had been arrested and quietly shipped away to never be seen again, and during this time as well, approximately 72 people had been killed along with the hundreds of the building's residence to be wounded. Fortunately, the remaining quarter of the building's residence were left unharmed yet terrified as they were subjected to the terror and fear of the paramilitary police about to knock on their doors, and also proceed with raiding and patrolling each floor for suspected enemies of the state.

Ruthlessly, Ai Jian Peng eventually herded the suspect to one of the security lorries outside and had him shoved inside with thirteen other suspects before the doors closed and letting the lorry drive away. Quite fortunately, this was the last suspect to be whisked away before the school day ended by one o'clock; however, Ai Jian Peng was far from done with her fellow comrades. In spite of clearing the public housing estate of all possible suspects, Ai Jian Peng and the rest of the paramilitary police had to confiscate evidence and begin clearing out most of the suspects' place of residence, and this included relocating the families of these suspects to different planets across the entire Dasian Union itself.

"All units be advised, primary targets have been neutralised. Repeat, primary targets have been neutralised." Ai Jian Peng reported over her radio set as she proceeded to head back into the building and while passing by her fellow officers on her way back inside.

"Copy, Leader 9." The voice of the Dispatch Command Unit replied back, "Proceed with culmination and prepare to withdraw in 48 hours."

[The Greater Gambia]

Chalsolis, Tagali Federation

After receiving the ultimatum of surrender from Crowned Prince M'Cholka, the commodores (who were right below the admiral in rank) held a very quick meeting over the comms to discuss how to proceed. The fleet would certainly be destroyed by the Maug-Lai if they continued to resist, and some commodores suggested retreating back to Covenant space rather than surrendering. However, they quickly realized that they had already violated the orders of High Command by trespassing in Federation space; rather than reporting the admiral for insubordination, the commodores, in a fit of anger after the destruction of the asteroid colonies, had chosen to go along with the admiral. They could never return to Covenant space, or they would certainly be put on trial for insubordination. With time running out, each commodore sent a message indicating the surrender of their squadrons to the Maug-Lai fleet. Fighter-bombers and transports, which had been sent out to collect the escape pods, were recalled back to their ships, and the guns went silent on all Covenant ships.

At this point, most of the crew on the admiral's battleship had been evacuated, but there were still hundreds of people left on board; they had barricaded themselves in various rooms and even the air ducts of the ship in order to avoid being hunted down by the Maug-Lai. Many escape pods had been rescued, but many had also been captured by Maug-Lai dropships. The boarding spikes had also been withdrawn, and the Maug-Lai ships would move away from the battleship; the battleship quickly depressurized, and some unlucky Cho'Dosans were sucked out into space.

Meanwhile, the admiral had been taken as a prisoner of war to the Maug-Lai flagship. He had managed to pull the rod out of his back with his still-functioning hands, and was now bleeding heavily from the wound in his back. Everything quickly became fuzzy as he slowly bled to death. He was able to make out some of the ships in his fleet, but the conversations between the Maug-Lai sounded like gibberish. Then, the admiral was thrown down on the flagship. He stumbled around for a few seconds before falling down to the ground, unconscious and close to dying.

Those still aboard the battleship, whether they were Cho'Dosan or Maug-Lai, would never escape. The runaway reaction in the reactor reached a point where all of the antimatter and all of the matter annihilated each other at once.

In a fraction of a second, the entire 8-kilometer long battleship was destroyed in a tremendous explosion. Millions of tiny pieces from the battleship were launched in all directions at near-relativistic speeds, impacting and damaging both Covenant and Maug-Lai ships; some pieces from the battleship also entered the atmosphere of Chalsolis, but burned up in the planet's atmosphere. The explosion was so bright that it could be seen on the surface of Chalsolis, as well as hundreds of thousands of kilometers away in space; those who witness the explosion of battleship aboard the Covenant ships were nearly blinded by it.

Days Later.....

Rays of sunlight shot into the Admiral's cell as the door opened, allowing entry into the pitch black room. The Maug-Lai had stopped his bleeding and brought him back from the edge of death, but had done nothing for his spinal injuries. While such spinal damage could easily be fixed in many star nations in the galaxy and even in the majority of the Federation, the Maug-Lai had no love of POWs and only did the bare minimum to keep them alive. They had left the Admiral in a barren cell with a hay covered floor, seldom dropping a bucket of almost inedible "food" (even by Maug-Lai standards) for the Admiral to eat. He was left alone, barely able to crawl around the floor of his cell.

Two figures entered the room. Unlike the many who had entered his cell, these figures were not Maug-Lai, but Humanoid in their appearance. The sunlight behind them obscured their more telling features, keeping the Admiral from discovering even what their species was. The door soon shut again, making the room pitch black once again. In the darkness a voice in a heavy Vers Tagali accent spoke, breaking the silence.

"Arjay, light please." Suddenly, a Federation AI Construct hovering over the individuals inside the room, emitted a glow across the room, allowing the Admiral to see who exactly his visitors were. In front of him, squatting down almost to eye level, was a Tagali man, with white hair typical of Tagali born to Jakala or Jakalan born colonies and a scar going across his left eye. Upon closer examination, the Admiral could see that the eye was cybernetic, seeming to zoom in to study the Admiral. Next to him stood a Taani Female, typical black hair and red and brown fur of her species. Her horns were long and curving half way around her head, almost creating a natural crown.

Both of them wore Standard Federation Officer non combat uniforms, black to signify their membership of the FIS, the Federal Intelligence Society. Both of them had a patch on their shoulder, the patch of the FIS PSYOPS division.

"Admiral Iso'ko," The Tagali man spoke, his tone was friendly and conversational. "your men speak highly of you. I am Operative Saeed and this is my Colleague Yiima. We are with the FIS PSYOPS Division. I must say, if your goal was to make your name known, well you've done it. The fanatical, I'm sorry, how do I put this gently? The less "rational" Maug-Lai wish to use you as a sacrifice to their Gods and the first kill of their "Legolo-Sa" or Blood Hunt as it has been translated in Federation and Galactic Standard along with many other tongues. They wish to hunt you Cho'Dosan down to the last Man, Woman, and Child in brutal ways, horrifying even to us Tagali. They wish to burn glyphs into your burning and glassed worlds to mark their "kills" as homage to their Gods. At the end of all of this, the whole of Covenant Space would be a barren and scorched collection of systems, unable to sustain life for who knows how long." Saeed chuckled to himself.

"Fortunately, the more rational Maug-Lai, like the High Warlord himself, have been able to control the smaller, but more vocal voices of the Maug-Lai, but do you want to know what both groups have in common?" Saeed got uncomfortably close to the Admiral's face.

"They both want you dead, in rather frightening I must admit. Our Tortu- I'm sorry, Interrogators could should learn a thing or two from them. Lucky for you, my partner and I's organization have need of you and your subordinate officers, so you've avoided death by flaying, burning, pack of animals, or ritual sacrifice for now. Tell us, why did you bring a fleet into Federation territory and attack a client species's colony? Orders from High Command to be the first wave? A defense probing run gone awry? Perhaps a decision made while you were intoxicated, thus explaining your decision to pick a fight with the Maug-Lai? I'd like to keep this civil so tell the truth. Don't even bother trying to lie, because we'll know immediately. We are apart of PSYOPS, after all. If you feel brave and try to well, I'll let Yiima give you a taste of what would come."

Yiima's eyes began to glow a dark violet color. She raised her hand out towards the Admiral. Suddenly, he was lifted off of the ground, floating a few feet off of the ground. His left arm extend out, suddenly twisting against his will. The sound of bones in his arm and hands unnaturally twisting and cracking filled the room, the sound amplified mentally for Iso'ko by Saeed, tampering with his mind. Once the damage was done, Yiima "let go" of the Admiral, dropping him to the floor.

"Don't fear death from this interrogation, Admiral. You're too valuable for us to kill you. Just remember that your cooperation is a none issue, we'll get what we need from you whether you tell us willingly or not. We in PSYOPS like to give at least an illusion of free will when interrogating subjects." Saeed leaned in once more, his friendly demeanor now gone from his voice and face.

"Tell me, why have you come here?"

[The Moscow Metro Red Line]

Krastikan-Alliance War
00:00:00:00:00:00
Years:Months:Days:Hours:Minutes:Seconds
"Here begins the end."

The Residence of Ereanas Sxhtra Mo'Krastikan - Krastika Prime - GKU

As the people gathered for the meeting began to leave, an military attache walked into the room wearing his work uniform. "The Galactic Alliance Senate has declared war on the Greater Krastikan Union." He said bluntly and urgently. They all froze in fear immediately with the exception of Ereanas Sxhtra Mo'Krastikan who kept looking out at the city below through the window.

"How long till they reach the GKU?" Ereanas spoke curtly.

"They shall arrive in two hours. Our analysts and spies report that their FTL technology must be significantly faster than our predictions." The military attache reported and took out his own data-slate. "An Alliance war fleet of significant proportions is approaching us. Current estimates put their numbers at 25,000 vessels."

"If they had a few ten thousand more they would have more ships than the entire GKU navy." One of the Admirals at the table remarked.

"And how many ships is that Admiral? Please do tell." The Party General Secretary asked impolitely.

"In the recent count we have 55,750 ships in total of the Union Defense Forces Navy. This includes all classes of vessels from combat to noncombat vessels." The same Admiral from prior replied as he began walked to the door. "I'll make sure my fleet is prepared to receive the invaders."

"Excellent. You are all dismissed. Let us greet them with a warm reception." Ereanas spoke aloud as the rest of his entourage walked out of the dining hall. "Send out the alert for the invasion alarm."

---

GKU

When the Alliance Navy vessels arrived at their targets, there were thousands of ships guarding the respective sector capitals. Because the UDF High Command could not discern which was the target, they allocated more ships to strategically important systems and left other ones with less ships. Of course when the Alliance Navy arrived, the GKU Navy was still trying to organize it's fleet formations and defensive satellites. However the formation of the GKU Navy in all the fronts was very clear. The main battleships, frigates, battlecruisers and carriers took the center of the battle line while the interceptor battleships, patrol cruisers and frigates took the flanks of the formation. It was classic UDF formation, the strongest ships would take the center while the faster ships would encircle and harass the enemy from the flanks. However the UDF Admirals did not know where the Alliance ships were coming from so concentrated their ships at the capital planet of the sector capital system.

Throughout the GKU there was invasion drills and alarms being broadcasted on all frequencies. Propaganda speeches began unceasingly extolling the population to fight against the coming aggressors and all soldiers were to be called up for duty. Anyone who could carry a assault rifle was allowed to join in the People's Militia, one of the militarized arms of the Hejuc Party. However in the backdrop of all these preparations, a few fleets were ordered to go into deep space and several important party and military officials just disappeared. In what would later be called the Two Hour Purge, numerous low-ranking to high-ranking Party Security officers began executing random military officers and government officials at the order of the Hejuc Party General Secretary who was noticeably absent from the public eye for these two hours. The only face of the government to be seen was the face of Ereanas Sxhtra Mo'Krastikan who was giving patriotic speeches to the people of the GKU from an undisclosed location. These propaganda broadcasts were even picked up the approaching Alliance Navy vessels as they got closer to GKU space.

---

Krenpa - Krastika Prime - Krastika System

"Brothers and Sisters of Krastika! Defend your homes! Raise up in righteous anger against the Galactic Alliance Imperialists who are to invade our land!"

The streets of the Capital City of Krenpa was crowded as both soldiers and civilians reacted to the coming storm. The soldiers were running to their posts while the civilians were running to the evacuation shelters set up by the Government. In all the government buildings a great conflagration was starting as numerous documents, computers and other forms of data were being burned and destroyed by the soldiers and officers of the Hejuc Party Security. Crowds of fleeing civilians were thrown to the side as numerous armored vehicles and soldiers passed by to man the defenses.

There were also constant broadcasts being played throughout the city updating the populace on the current situation. Most of the soldiers had grim looks on their faces, they need that they wouldn't be able to last long against a concentrated Alliance Ground Assault. Moreover there were numerous divisions and formations being reassigned to "special duty" making their advantage of vast reserves mute at the moment. The officer in charge of the defense of the capital planet and the capital city was Brigadier General Gresta Do'Veyia who had taken up her headquarters in the very residence of the Supreme Leader. This was her first major command due to her rapid promotion as a result of the Two Hour Purge.

---

Jakala planetary ring habitat installation - Chalkuze City - Jakala - Todval System

"The Greater Krastikan Union is a democratic republic of the Krastikan, Khorasmians and the Kleandros peoples in perfect harmony. There is enough food for everyone, there are enough jobs to go around and the people are satisfied with their government." Colonel Kreul replied pridefully. "There are numerous safeguards in place and social wealth programs that ensure that our citizens are always satisfied with their government. We do not appreciate those who exploit others for their own personal gain. These Warlords of the military, economy and politics do not exist because the people are in charge of the government."

Of course what the Colonel said was the official line of the Hejuc Party. He was one of the mouth pieces of the party and always made speeches in the public praising the glory of the GKU and how it was better than any other nation in the galaxy.

[The Orson Empire]

Sayran, Conglomerate Space

Pers'Av's ship would deorbit, enter the atmosphere of Sayran and followed the escorts towards the Board Complex, the capital building of Sayran. As his ship touched down on a nearby landing pad, Pers'Av would order his guards to remain on the ship, as he did not expect to be harmed during this meeting (though if he needed them, he would contact them). He was armed with a laser pistol for personal protection. As he exited the ship, Pers'Av saw several Lyrvirks step forward, who appeared to look exactly like Cho'Dosans. Pers'Av knew that this was a Conglomerate formality, but it made him rather uncomfortable; he preferred to see them for who they really were. One of the Lyrvirks stepped forward and spoke in fluid Cho'Dosan (which also disturbed him), and he took the transceiver that was offered.

Surrounded by guards, they entered the Complex and walked to the Grand Room, where many Conglomerate officials were seated. At the end of the table was a large holoscreen, where the eleven Directors of the Conglomerate appeared. As usual, they were silhouetted and their voices were distorted.

"Before we begin, you are aware of our upcoming war with the Galactic Alliance, correct?" Pers'Av asked. "The Reformer Administration believes that you could...benefit greatly from this war."

---

Iso'ko had been locked up in a pitch black cell for days. He had been unconscious for some time, even after the Maug-Lai stopped his bleeding; when he woke up, he did not know where he was, what time of day it was, or even the current date. He could not walk due to the paralysis in the lower half of his body, and he could only crawl by using the strength in both of his arms. There was something soft on the bottom of the cell, but he couldn't identify what it was. He only knew for certain that he was locked up when the Maug-Lai occasionally came to give him food. The food was rather bland, but the admiral was so hungry that he didn't care and ate it eagerly. He noticed that his armor, weapons, and comlink had been confiscated, but he noticed that they left his universal translator, presumably so that he would be able to understand them.

Eventually, two figures, a Tagali male and a Taani female entered the room. A drone lit up the room, allowing the admiral to see them. The Tagali man introduced himself as Operative Saeed and his colleague as Yiima. As Saeed rambled on, suddenly, Yiima used her psionic powers to lift the admiral up off of the ground. His left arm extended out and began to twist. The sound of his bones twisting was amplified in his mind by Yiima's powers. She then dropped him back to the ground. The admiral did not appear to even be phased by it- sure it hurt, but the admiral was a tough man, and was certainly not easy to intimidate. He simply snapped his arm back into place, knowing that it would heal eventually. Even his spine would heal on its own eventually, but it would of course take much longer.

The admiral simply chuckled in laughed face. "You people are comical, I promise," he said while still laughing. "You view yourselves as high and mighty because of your 'democratic' and 'free' principles, yet your military is more than willing to torture and kill POW's. How your pathetic nation manages to keep itself together is beyond me."

Iso'ko would raise up against the cell wall. "You can blame your incompetent government as the reason I am here. We deal regularly with pirates crossing into the frontier of Cho'Dosan space and raiding merchant vessels and even settlements, killing thousands in the process. We have tried diplomacy, but that appears to have been a waste of time. So, having been fed up with these raids, we decided to lend you a helping hand by taking out these damned pirates. And of course, it escalated from there."

"Covenant High Command has been twiddling its thumbs regarding this issue, but now that you have defeated an entire Covenant fleet, it will almost certainly result in war. Whatever the Maug-Lai do to me and my subordinates will only give the Reformers even more of a reason to go to war with you, and the Maug-Lai will especially be dealt with...harshly. Relations between our two nations are already cold, but now, I would advise you to prepare for the coming storm."

---

News of the surrender of Iso'ko's fleet and the admiral himself shocked the public. Surrender was viewed as dishonorable in Cho'Dosan culture, and as a result, the reputations of Iso'ko and everyone under his command had been tarnished. Furthermore, the admiral had invaded Maug-Lai space against High Command's orders. Overlord Asir was seething with rage upon being informed of the news; the Covenant had been building up its military for a future war against the Galactic Alliance, and the recent battle essentially threw a monkey wrench in Asir's plans. He had no current desire to engage the Federation, but he knew that if he backed down, it would only be a further embarrassment for the Covenant, and he would be viewed as weak by the people.

The day after the battle, Asir called for an emergency meeting with the Reformed Council. Asir did not address the nation himself about the issue and did not even declare war on the Federation. Instead, his plan was to keep the conflict limited to a border war, so that in the eventual peace negotiations, the Covenant would be equals with the Federation. Covenant High Command activated the Rapid Response Protocol, a policy that had been in place since the end of the Zorgon Invasion; it allowed the military to quickly respond to an invasion, a rebellion, or other serious incidents without formal approval of the central government. High Command authorized a full armada (20 fleets or 2,400 warships) to be sent into the Chal system in retaliation for the destruction of the fleet. The armada, under the command of High Admiral Lum'ya Temarch, made use of the gate system to move rapidly to the frontier of Covenant space before departing to the Chal system.

Meanwhile, Asir and the Council addressed another incident. chancellor Vestus of the Galactic Alliance had called for war against the Greater Krasitkan Union, and the Alliance Senate voted in agreement. This was the perfect situation for the Covenant; the GKU was too weak to directly confront the Alliance, and was likely to resort to guerrilla warfare in order to bog down the Alliance Military. To further hamper the Alliance war effort, Asir planned to provide war material and funding to the GKU, so that they would at least be technologically on par with the Alliance forces.

Asir would send an encrypted message to the GKU regarding the issue.

From the Office of the Overlord

To: Ereanas Sxhtra, Supreme Leader of the Greater Krasitkan Union
Maximum Level of Encryption

Greetings Supreme Leader,

I am contacting you regarding the current war between the Galactic Alliance and the GKU. The Covenant wishes to supply your nation with war material (ranging from ground weaponry to naval warships, as well as other supplies such as food) and funding for this war. While the Covenant will not send in its own forces due to the current situation with the Tagali Federation, we nevertheless wish to assist your nation against this unjust war that the Alliance has started.

Overlord Asir Av'Lya, head of state of the Reformed Covenant

[The Greater Gambia]

-snip

Saeed stood up and began pacing around the room.

"You're all enlisted men and women, right? If you were simply Covenant civilians who lost their way, you'd be treated as if you were Federation Citizens until the situation was over. But you are not Civilians, you are enemy Combatants. In accordance to Federation law, you are, as the Humans say, free game as you actively wish harm on the people of the Federation. It is only you who are to blame for the conditions of your subordinate." Saeed reached into his pocket and pulled out a flask filled with Yalin Tea, made from a plant native to the Jungles of Jakala. The tea was harvested for it's psionic enhancing qualities, making it a favorite by State Psionics and civilians as well.

"We do not fear your Covenant, Admiral. In the midst of the First Contact War, the Maug-Lai said they would push us out of their system and burn our worlds, yet Jakala still stands. The Khyrsian Confederacy claimed they would "civilize" the Federation Races and save the galaxy of our "plague", yet their former military fortress systems are now made up of tomb worlds with rings of Confederacy Ship debris. The Scra'Shn pledged to plunder a thousand Federation worlds, but now they work for us. You claim that your Covenant will avenge what has happened here, but look around. Your fleet lies destroyed, the morale of your men broken, and you are here, in a Maug-Lai cell, defeated by a mere Colonial Self Defense Force." Saeed chuckled as he took a sip of his tea.

"The Covenant, while numerous, is only one, yet the Federation is many. Your "Coming Storm" is merely another foe the Federation will defeat and integrate. You are not the first and you most definitely won't be the last." Saeed opened the door, gesturing for his partner and the drone to follow.

"Well, that concludes our session for today. For your cooperation, I will have the Maug-Lai be more considerate towards your men."

Chalsolis Orbit

"What do you mean "abandon" the planet?" Yelled an angry hologram of the Maug-Lai Warlord Tachala. Satya Maheswaran, Supreme Commander of the Azure Fleet, tried to calm him down. The Azure Fleet is one of the three Grand Color Armadas, made up of almost 1,130 top of the line ships, equipped with some of the best technology at the Federation's disposal.

"Not abandon, exactly. They won't just send a small fleet like last time. They'll bring their numbers. Right now, Federation Naval Assets are stretched, most are still tied down in the Huo Protectorate, assisting in rebuilding and security. Right now, we don't have the numbers to hold the line against a full Covenant assault. If we are to win this, we need to be smart about this. Besides, the FIS has a new device they want to test out that could turn the tide. All we have to do is wait in the Oort Cloud until the time to strike."

"It was not your ships and warriors that died in defense of Chalsolis. To flee from their final resting place is a grave ins-"

"That's enough Tachala!" Yelled the hologram of the Maug-Lai Crowned Prince.

"We will pull back as the Supreme Commander says. When the time is right, we will teach the Cho'Dosan once again why they shall never trespass in our systems."

[Veroxia]

Siberius, Outer Systems, The Korosian Robotic Empire

---

A soft, yet chilling snow had begun to cover much of the landscape of Siberius, a planet already consumed by the tundras and presence of synthetic beings. The mountains, wide and cumbersome had made it an excellent choice for covert operations. Within the mountains, silos meant for long-range ballistic projectiles, many carrying destructive nuclear warheads unused since the beginnings of the Nation.

Surrounding the mountains were small, yet elevated plots of tundra, the few trees covering these areas bringing in a sense of calm. Contrasting in the usual white, the trees held an abudance of leaves with a pink hue. Siberius as it was was a "winter wonderland".

Inside a covert military facility found near the mountains, a group of diplomats and military human personnel dressed in Standard BDU had been discussing the subject of their soon-to-be expedition. They were guarded by a squad of Korosian-Human Infantry whom would serve as temporary protection until they headed toward the Korosian Cruiser.

---

"Regarding the recent tests, it is clear that we are too far from any civilization. Acknowledged a Robotic Being, within a standard Trooper body. The diplomats around the mahine agreed, though some of the military officers had grunted. Failure of results was something frowned upon in the KIF.

Once they entered the large and expansive cruiser, they were left behind by the squad, saluting as the craft slowly made its way out of the port and into the abyss of space. Their official mission would be search for others, and learn from them. In reality, their goal was far more radical and widespread...