NationStates Jolt Archive

In Earth year 3302 the people of Talmaraan VIII left the Republic to become an independant planet. In 3303 all contact with the system was lost when their neighbors, the Trasnian pirates of Talmaraan V, invaded the fledgling independant planet and took over, turning the citizens into a slave class. In 3321 the Trasnian pirate organization was absorbed by another empire. Now, in 3325, the Xanthalian Republic is putting together an expedition to discover just what has become of the Talmaraan system and it's former citizens of the Republic during these long years of isolation and doubtless opression. It is not a task that the Xanthalians wish to undertake alone, however. With their forces spread thinly in several systems across the galaxy, they simply do not have the number of ships needed for such a massive investigation into what may turn out to be an intensely hostile situation. This being the case, the Republic has issued an invitation to all of it's allies to join them in their mission and send spacecraft of their own. The mission is going forward, whether they recieve help or not. The Republic, after twenty-two long years, is returning to the Talmaraan system!

OOC: hmmm interesting, do you mind if I say that during the time of the isolation, small groups of space ork raiders have taken up residence in the system? I haven't had the chance to use the space orks for sometime, and moving into a chaotic pirate controlled system is exactly the sort of thing that they would do. I think you'd find the orks to be amusing. Mind if I interject a small group into the system?

IC: Captain Alloran Hrakness sat in his ready room on his H. Battlestar Taurus. A light lit up indicating a message for him. He flipped up the screen on his comms display and typed in his acceptance code. A face appeared on the screen.

"Greeting, Lord-Admiral Carrik. I'm suprised you've contacted me. Isn't that somewhat out of protocol." said the Captain, slightly taken aback by a message from the supreme commander of the Home Defence Fleet.

"It is indeed Captain, but this is an important message." replied the Admiral, "we have been informed by the diplomatic corp., that the Xanthallians are moving to reclaim a system which has been lost to them for over a decade, and have offered the opportunity to their allies of accompanying them. You are to take command of the 3rd Expeditionary Fleet and rendevous with the Xanthallians. They have been informed of your coming. You will join them for this exploration, and will aid them and observe. we may stand to gain much from this... or lose much. Which, depends on you. Good luck you will depart in 36 hrs. Carrick out."

"Hmmm," thought Hrakness, This will be interesting indeed."

He gave the orders for the fleet to be prepped for launch.

******
The next day at 5:OO pm Sol standard, the Expeditionary fleet left its station at Draco. They were sure to braocast the neutrality signals to ensure that they were not mistaken for part of the wargames currently going on in the area and when they reached safe distance, the fleet jumped to hyperspace as if passing through a screen.
Several hours later, the ships entered Xanthallian Space. And proceeded to the rendevous point. 1 Heavy Battlestar, 2 Battlestars, 6 Gunstars, and 6 Assaultstars proceeded forward.

(I dont know exactly where I'm meeting you, I would assume Aellis III? but wherever you say is fine by me.)

Falasmayon: OOC: Just outside the Aellis system... The Xanthalians try to avoid having non-Xanthalian combat equipped vessels in their systems whenever possible. And sure, put some Orks there.

IC: The Taurus comes upon the Xanthalian exploratory fleet, the first of its kind ever assembled by Xanthal. The fleet is headed by two Andromeda class ships, three Dreadnaughts and a Super Dreadnaught. Trailing just behind and to the sides are six Sabre class ships. About half a kilometer behind this spearhead comes the bulk of the fleet, ten Super Dreadnaughts, twenty Dreadnaughts, and thirty Sabre class vessels. This second group is in a protective funnel formation, with the Super Dreadnaughts at the tip and the Dreadnaughts and Sabres forming the tight body of the formation. Five of the combat ships trail at the open end of the funnel to ensure total protection. A quick scan reveals the ships being protected inside the funnel formation. Twenty military dropships and dozens of small personnel and cargo transports fly in tight formation inside the funnel. The entire formation is coordinated by the AIs and computers of the many ships, all working together to keep their ships from crashing into one another. Dozens of active commlinks reveal the intense coordination occurring between the ship's crews. The Aellis system itself is almost empty of Armada starships; the Republic is sending all but a skeleton defense fleet out on this mission. A single commlink from the lead Super Dreadnaught is opened to the incoming Taurus.
"Greetings Falasmayon fleet. We've been expecting you."

This is the Elvarin Empire, we will help you in your expedition as a sign of goodwill and extending the hands of friendship. A single hammerhawk(destroyer) with a company of Dragon Knights, will be enroute once we have confirmation that you will receive our contribution. Counselor Lerathin out.

http://oz.games-workshop.com/warhammerworld/warhammer/highelves/HE-articles/images/heartwork4.jpg
Counselor Lerathin of foreign affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

OOC: I got me an invitation to this RP, let's see here, Xanthal, will forces I send meet you outside the Aellis System as well?

IC: Admiral Joseph Ricketts had no desire to command the Dreadnaught-Class ship of the Armada Royale, he had never been anything but a non-combatant before in his whole career, but the High Command had ordered him removed from his post as Commanding Officer of the second Orbital Building Facility, and placed in command of the mightiest ship the Armada had to offer "I'm sorry Joe" was all his superior, Admiral White, had to say "We'd choose someone else, but everyone else of proper rank is needed where they are now, and the High Command doesn't seem to think anyone is deserving of promotion to the proper rank just yet, so you'll have to take the job" luckily his XO was a good Officer, Captain Fiona Hayes was said to be one of the best Captains in the Armada, which was good, Joseph had begun to think things would be OK when he got word that, as soon as he got to his ship, he was to make ready for combat, and stand by to move out.

The Elvarin: You are certainly welcome to attend, the fleet will not be moving out for several hours.

OOC: Two more people may join before I close the RP. I don't want to devide my attention too much.

OOC: Yes Kecha, same place. One more participant may join.

OOC:Can I join in?


Admiral Cook sits in his chair on his flagship the GSS Wake.Sir we have a message from Xanthal.They would like assistance in helping them take back a lost system.What should we do sir?Send them a message ask them what they need?Get off a message to Gore informing them of our plans.Now ready 12 Northhampton Frigates,2 Carriers,60 PVs,and 4 Battle Cruisers.Also send a the 6th Marine Regiment and a company of Recon.Yes sir.

Gore_2004: OOC: I'd say yes, but try some better grammar. Trust me, punctuation and spaces are awesome.

A warship glided out of hyperspace, its shields flaring out in golden luminenses as the backwash from such a jump was absorbed. The anicent hull bared the flag of The Elvarin, its long graceful hull criss crossed with signs of ancient battle damage.

On board the vessel, Captain Delvatos turned to his comms officer, "Broadcast immediately to the Xanthalian fleet and request permission to approach."

"Aye sir", and with that began broadcasting, "This is Orion's Hammer of the Elvarin Empire, we are approaching with weapons powered down and requesting permission to join the fleet over".

Delvatos turned to his aide, "Tell the marshal that we are here and to prep his warriors." Returning back to the screen, he just hope noone would catch them in such an unprepared state.

Xanthal(OOC): Very well, I shall dispatch a small Expeditionary Force.

IC: Admiral Ricketts had just walked onto the Brigde of his ship, named the KARMAC, when a loud, bull-like voice roared "Attention! Admiral on deck!" he started as every member of the Bridge Crew stood up and turned to face him, snapping to attention as they did so, a woman with a hint of grey in her hair walked up in front of him and saluted "Good mornng sir, I'm Captain Fiona Hayes" Joseph stood still for a short moment "Morning?" was all he could manage, Hayes looked quietly at him with a cool expresion "Yessir, by Ship's Time it is morning sir" Joseph nodded, for the rest of the day he got set up for his new posting, Hayes helped him a great deal, by the time they got final order for movement, they were allmost ready, except for some units of soldiers, they had 10 Andromeda-Class ships with them, and were awaiting a few units of soldiers.

The Elvarin vessel recieved a quick reply from one of the leading Andromeda class vessels. "Your ship is cleared to approach and fall in. Welcome to the party. We're getting word that the Xanthalian government is backing out some of our fleet since we're getting all this kind assistance, so don't be alarmed if some of our ships break formation shortly."

In the final hour before launch, Xanthalian Armada Command has ordered ten Super Dreadnaughts, fifteen Dreadnaughts, and twnety Sabres to remain behind. The rest of the fleet will proceed as scheduled. All ships are instructed to stand by for a reorganization of the Xanthalian formation.

The forty-five Xanthalian ships ordered to stay behind peel out of formation and head back into the system, the rest of the Xanthalian fleet moves into a new triangular formation with the single remaining Super Dreadnaught at the head, the two Andromeda class vessels behind it, the eight remaining Dreadnaughts behind them, and the sixteen remaining Sabre class ships taking up the sides and rear of the formation. The aforementioned vulnerable craft now travel in the loose triangle's center.

A fleetwide message rings out from the Super Dreadnaught formation leader. "Attention all ships! This is XAS-147, your fleet leader! We will depart as soon as the Kechan vessels arrive! Stand by to engage your FTL drives as soon as the Xanthalian fleet has done so! XAS-147 out!"

IC: The KARMAC finally set out for it's destination, followed by the 10 other vessels, through some means of some sort or other the vessels carried 10 full Regiments of 2,000 troops, they had done this with cryotubes, other means, and the like from what Ricketts had heard, his ship also carried a single Recon Company, they approached their destination at top speed, when they finally arrived, they boradcasted a simple greeting to the Xanthalians in the area.

XAS-147 hails the Kechan ships. "You're late. Form up with the fleet, let's get going."

IC: The KARMAC responded as the Kechan Expeditionary Fleet formed up:

"You have our apologies, our Command Chain was just gutted and redone, new CO, a number of new XOs, such like, but we're here now, and that's what matters, we're ready to roll when you are"

"This is your fleet leader XAS-147 to all ships travelling to the Talmaraan system. We are going to Slipstream now. We will arrive on the outskirts of the Talmaraan system, systemic coordinates 1000 X 950 X 0, in ten minutes. We will wait for you all there, or meet you there in the case of the more speedy of you. XAS-147 out."

Two seconds later, the entire Xanthalian fleet jumps to slipstream simultaneously and disappears.

IC: The Kechan ships had been updated by the Xanthalians recently, so they could make good time, they whent to Slipstream, going the maximum speed they could, as they travelled, Admiral Ricketts spoke with Captain Hayes, and the Captains of his other ships.

The old Hammerhawk's engines powered up as the ship readied itself for the jump into the warp. The vessel vibrated as a hole was torn in the material of space and propelled forward into the gaping hole of the immaterium.

http://www.forgeworld.co.uk/acatalog/gkstrikecp2store.jpg
(Hammerhawk)

Marshal Arethas felt the ship entered the realm of nightmares but he wasnt afraid, for he lived in eternal darkness now. However he felt powerless should anything go wrong. Having lost his eyes when he was captured and tortured by pirates, he was still a great warrior, his hearing reaching a near supernatural level even among the elves. But it counts for nothing for you cant hear an enemy approach you in deep space or hear when a missile barrage is launched upon the ship.

"I wish I was on some sort of planet", Arethas muttered, but since he cant do anything about it now he walked towards the bridge, his steps was as surefooted as when he still had eyes.

A door in front of him slide opened and he walked into the command nucleus of the ship.

"Captain Delvatos!", he called, "How far are we from the fleet?"

He felt a change in air pressure and heard movement that signified that Delvatos had stood up and was now standing next to him.

"We are about a klick behind them", he anwered gruffly, "we are maintaining speed but they sure do move fast", the captain admired.

Arethas gave a rare smile, "But see that you dont lose sight of them".

The captain laughed and walked back to his post, "And see that you dont get yourself killed whereever we are going".

Arethas heard the smile in his voice, but he silently agreed with him.

http://oz.games-workshop.com/warhammerworld/warhammer/highelves/HE-articles/images/heartwork6a.jpg
Marshal Arethas Brightwing The Blind
Of The House Of Tel Alorn
2nd In command Of The Dragon Knights

IC: Admiral Ricketts yawned and looked at the sheet of paper in front of him, it was just a collective report on the condition of all of the ships he was commanding, a report like this one came in every 4 hours, made up of data from every ship, and it was always boring, unless, as Captain Hayes told him, it was sent during, or after combat, which he hoped he'd never have to go through, even though he had been trained as a Warrior like all Kechans, he was a peacefull man at heart, suddenly, he jumped as a hand landed on his shoulder, he turned around, it was Ensign Rawkus, his personal aide "Sir, Captain Hayes has ordered me to inform you our ETA to our plotted destination is another 3 minutes, we should arrive just as the Xanthalians do" Ricketts nodded "Very well Ensign, please tell me when we arrive" "Yessir" the Ensign saluted, and left.

OOC: Forgive the delay, I want to let Falasmayon catch up before we keep going.

OOC: Sure.

ooc: ok, no probs.

OOC: This is taking longer than I thought... I'll give him until tomorrow morning, then we're moving on.

OOC: Is this thing closed enough so that I can't join?

OOC: Tell you what, keep an eye on it. If in four hours Falasmayon isn't back you can take his place. You must post your IC catchup-post within ten hours of that time though, otherwise you're out. Fair enough?

OOC: Sounds fair to me.

Fine... but I'm playing as Tib, not Falas.

OOC: Right.

OOC: Ahh!... Wait for meeeee! ( runs quicky!) OK. Man I was only out for 1/2 a day! sheesh! Heres the deal... I don't want to have to not be in this cause it looks good, but i'm gonna be away from home all day tomorrow! I'll update to you guys and then just hpe nothing massively huge happens. If being away for a day means too much will happen, then go ahead and drop me, but if not, then I'll post any catch-ups needed ASAP, until then I'll hand over general control of my ships to Xanthal. Its up to you... If I can still keep up then ok, if not then oh well! :cry: :wink: your call!

IC: The chronometer to hyperspace exit, ticked downward as the ships continued along toward the Talmaraan system.

Admiral Hrakness was calm as he sat in his command chair facing out the windows to the swirling color vortex of hyperspace. It would not be long now until his ships joined the others in a new and uncharted endeavor. Personally it didn't matter to him! Hrakness's primary concern was that the Xanthallians had a massive fleet of ships and he had a comparatively small force. Of course, it was about the same as the other nations that had joined, but still, it was a matter of pride, he still hoped to contribute.

******
Warboss Grobash Nazdreg, sat in the hall of his command citadel. It had been a full month since his boyz had gotten any fun and he was getting antsy!. Something had better come along soon or else he'd just start killin' things. Unbeknownst to the ork, however he and his warband were about to have all the "fun" they could stomach and more.

(Oh yeah one more thing, if Tiburon wants to come in, and you dont want anymore allies, then I can just drop Falasmayon and only do the orks, since with them I can easily put of action for a day. Whatever, your choice.)

OOC: I feel bad dropping you Falasmayon, but I do want to get on with this. Tell you what, you're in for now. Tiburon, sorry but you're out. Falasmayon, when you get back you have to decide if you want to stay in as yourself. If not, you can just RP a hasty exit. Okay, on with the RP!

IC: The Xanthalian ships exit the slipstream at the coordinates they specified, still in formation. The frontrunning ships begin doing preliminary scans of the system while they wait for their company to arrive.

OOC: Good to see you back, things move at a good pace here.

IC: Admiral Rickett's was in his quarters when Ensign Rawkus delivered the message they were about to come out of Slipstream, he rushed to the Bridge as fast as he could go, he got there just as the Kechan Expeditionary Force arrived on destination, upon arriving, they broadcasted a heavily coded message to the Xanthalians, it was a simple greeting, and a status report, but it was obvious the Kechans weren't going to be messing about on this mission.

OOC: hmm... yeah, all Xanthal's stuff seems to run fast comapred tomost other RP's on the forum. grrr :wink:

The 15 ships of the Falasmayon force exited hyperspace and moved to an escort formation along with the Xanthal ships. The long range sensors began preliminary scans of the surrounding space. They found the Kechan ships first and sent geetings.
Also a message was quickly sent to the Xanthallian command ship.

Transmission-tightbeam-uncoded:
Do our Xanthallian hosts have any directives as to sensor protocol? Do you wish for us not to initiate long range or in depth sensor scans or is there any preference in this area? We inquire because we do not know what level of secrecy and stealth you wish to maintain, with regards to groups unassociated with this task force, picking up our sensor scans.
Transmission end

IC: The KEF ships responded to the greeting from the Falasmayon vessels, then sat waiting for orders.

Transmission from XAS-147 to the Falasmayon and Kechan fleets: Open channel, uncoded.
"We have nothing to hide, as you've noticed we're not going for stealth with a fleet this big. We came here to find whoever's left; what point is there in hiding. If the situation becomes too hostile we'll order a retreat or a change in tactics. Otherwise you're free to do as you will as long as you stick with the fleet. We'll be moving into the system as soon as our Elvarin friends arrive. Until then, scan all you want."

IC: The Kechans didn't respond verbally, they just began an Intensive Long Range Scan, or ILRS, throughout their maximum reach of their Sensors, each ship began preparing Slipfighters, upon finishing a third ILRS, they stopped scanning, 10 minutes later, they did another triple ILRS.

Appearing out of the warp, the Hammerhawk immediately broadcasted a message to the ship that is in command of this mission, "XAS-147, we have arrived and fast approaching you. But however, if there isnt any immediate hostile threat, would you wish us to deploy the Dragon knights on the last known inhabited place on the world? They are chosen and trained for such missions for all their lives and would be more of an asset if they were on the ground instead idle on a ship. What are your orders?"

And with that, Captain Delvatos sat back down awaiting a reply from their new fleet command. Though the Dragon Knights would be superior in repeling any boarders, he knew that Arethas needed to get off the ship to feel that he is of any use, Delvatos mused to himself.

Oh well, it is really up to Xanthalians

OOC: I am on the comp usually in the afternoon or nighttime in Australia so plz dont leave me behind in this whereever you lot are from :D And i wont be here on the 26-27th because i will be doing some hard labour for my father.

Transmission from XAS-147 to the Elvarin Hammerhawk: Open channel, uncoded.
"Rest easy, you'll get you chance to deploy; just wait. Running ahead of us into uncharted territory with only one fleet ship is not wise. Let's stick together. Our first stop will be Talmaraan VIII; we'll deploy a small fighter group and diplomatic shuttles to assess the situation. If it is hostile, you'll be authorized to deploy."

Transmission from XAS-147 to all ships in the fleet: Open channel, uncoded.
"We're going in. All ships, stay in formation and run continuous short-and long-range scans. We'll be heading directly to Talmaraan VIII. Once there we will deploy craft to scout out the situation. Will advise futher upon the return of our scouts. Set your course, nice and slow. We'll head in at .3 SL. Estimate arrival at Talmaraan VIII in three hours."

"We read you loud and clear! We will prep the Dragon Knights for short notice deployment, and proceed to remain with the fleet."

And with that the transmission was over, and Devaltos turned to speak with his aide, "Go and tell Arethas that, he should prep his men should anything untowards happen".

But as he was about to resume his duties, the comms officer yelled out, "Sir we received a comms message for Arethas! Its from the Elvarin council!"

"Patch it up to him then!", It seems to be a busy day today, for all of us, he shook his head thoughtfully.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++

"....and your brother is currently on a mission to discover the source of the signals. We havent heard from him since though we believe that he is still alive, he is after all your twin", and with that the message ended.

Getting up, and feeling the tenous link that binded him to his brother, he just knew that he was still alive, and he hoped it stayed that way.

http://oz.games-workshop.com/warhammerworld/warhammer/highelves/HE-articles/images/heartwork6a.jpg
Marshal Arethas Brightwing The Blind
Of The House Of Tel Alorn
2nd In Command Of The Dragon Knights

The Xanthalian fleet sets off at .3 SL. into the Talmaraan system. The Captain of XAS-147, a well-built female Than, watches the viewscreen. "That's a lot of debris out there, where did it all come from?"
"Unknown Sir, but I may have an idea. According to these scans the ninth and tenth planets of the system no longer exist. There are asteroid belts where they used to orbit."
"What? How is that possible? Neither the Trasnians nor the Talmaraani have weapons capable of doing that!"
"Weapon signatures are of unknown type Sir. It looks like they had visitors."
"Charming visitors... Give me fleetwide."
"Fleetwide, aye."

Transmission from XAS-147 to all ships in the fleet: Open channel, uncoded.
"Bad news people, see those asteroid belts in the ninth and tenth orbits? Those were planets when the Republic left. The entire Xanthalian fleet is raising its alert status, we suggest you all do the same. Put your best men at the helm of your ships, we're going straight through both asteroid belts."

"This is the Orion's Hammer, we read you, charging weapons and gunners on full alert. Over"

A small shuttle approaches the incoming fleet from beyond the asteroid belt. It hails the fleet. "This is Talmaraani starship 06 calling the big-ass fleet coming toward me. Who the heck are you and what are you doing in our system?"

Transmission from XAS-147 to all ships in the fleet: Open channel, uncoded.
"All ships, full stop."

The Xanthalian fleet grinds to a halt and XAS-147 responds to the shuttle's hail. "You're quite arrogant to call that little thing a starship. Talmaraani you say? Pleasure to see that some of you are still alive. This is Xanthalian Armada starship 147."
"Xanthalian? Oh wow. Oh, WOW! You came back. Er... Permission to come aboard Sir."
"Stand by."

Transmission from XAS-147 to all ships in the fleet: Open channel, uncoded.
"What do you people make of all this?"

IC: The KARMAC's reply was brief, coded so heavily it wasn't even funny, and made by the AI:

"It has the potential for being a trap of some kind, possibly Trasnians playing the role of Talmaraani or some such thing, we suggest extreme caution"

XAS-147's AI replies to its Kechan counterpart. "Scans indicate minor armament. There are no other ships in the area. They are not a threat."

IC: "So near as can be determined, we still stress the need for caution, but we will go by your judgement for now"

"Caution is needed, we agree. We will risk a less valuable vessel."
One of the Sabre class vessels breaks formation and moves alongside the shuttle. "Talmaraani shuttle, you are cleared to dock with the vessel beside you."

The shuttle fires its thrusters and attaches to the Sabre's docking port. The two ships sit there for a while.

IC: "A wise decision" as the ships docked, the KARMAC trained 3 torpedoes on the shuttle.

The shuttle undocks and the Sabre returns to formation.

Transmission from XAS-147 to all ships in the fleet: Open channel, uncoded.
"We're continuing on, the Talmaraani shuttle will escort us through the asteroid belt to Talmaraan VIII."

The Xanthalian fleet begins moving again.

IC: As the fleet began to move along, the KARMAC's AI conversed with those of the other 10 Kechan ships, formultaing plans for various possibilities, they agreed that if they were attacked, it would start close in, so missiles would therefore not be needed, they loaded their tubes with torpedoes instead, and conducted continuous scans, the scans included the shuttle.

The situation went along without a hitch, though the crew aboard the Hammerhawk were vigilant against signs of treachery. The Dragon Knights aboard the Hammer of Orion, was fully geared and weapons readied, their ornate armour and weapons a sharp contrast to the plain grey uniforms of the naval personnel. Staying close to the fleet, all weapons did a continuous sweep of their fire arc, scanning the depthless space and asteroids for signs of a foe.

As the fleet enters the asteroid belt, the shields of the Xanthalian vessels begin to glow slightly as they repel stray bits of rock. The bigger asteroids are moved out of the way by the Xanthalian ships' GMS, creating an eerie effect, as if the spatial bodies were parting on their own accord to let the fleet through.

IC: The Kechans moved along in a group, slightly seperated from the rest of the fleet, obviousley not wanting to get caught in a big mess of assorted different ships if an attack began, even though he'd never been anywhere near a combat situation before, Rickett's felt uneasey.

The fleet clears the first asteroid belt and approaches the second, passing several old, unused, and obsolete Xanthalian defense platforms left behind when the Republic left the system two decades ago. A few small shuttles of undetermined origin sit in space at the extreme edge of sensor range, monitoring these intruders in their space. The fleet, still led by the shuttle they met earlier, penetrates the second asteroid belt, the remains of Talmaraan IX, and begins making it's way through it.

IC: The KARMAC sent a communication to the Xanthalians:

"Requesting permission to break away and perform minor extended scans within visual range of the main body of the fleet"

Transmission from XAS-147 to the Kechan fleet: Open channel, uncoded.
"Granted, but be careful. We can't use GMS to clear the asteroids at that range, so you'll have to either coordinate to use your own or just steer around them. Also, we're not sure who all is out here with us. If you come under attack don't let your warrior's pride or your new Dreadnaught cloud your judgement; return immediately to the fleet. If we fight in seperate groups we'll start losing ships."

IC: "Acjnowledged, a Kechan never let's her pride, or fancy toys cloud her judgement, breaking off now"

The Kechan ships moved off from the Fleet, using their Sensors to scan all over, trying to catch a better "View" of the ships that had been on the edge of their range earlier, they also spread just a little bit apart, to avoid getting multiple ships hit with one attack.

They come across several shuttles of various designs, all which run as soon as they spot the hulking vessels approaching. A few remenants of Xanthalian technology also float about, but for the most part it's just a lot of big rocks.

IC KARMAC, to Fleet Command, we are encountering a fair number of small shuttles, they refuse to communicate with us thus far, and run as we come close, some remnants of old technologies listed as developed by your people are floating around out here, but it's mostly just rocks, big ones to, will attempt to initiate communications with a shuttle, acknowledge please"

Transmission from XAS-147 to the Kechan fleet: Open channel, uncoded.
"Acknowledged."

Transmission from escorting Talmaraani shuttle to the Kechan fleet: Open channel, uncoded.
"They won't talk to you. This system has met with eight seperate outside forces since the Republic left, all unfriendly. Most of my people have developed a severe fear and dislike of outsiders. Beware, don't push them too hard. They'll fire on you if you try to force yourselves on them. Not that they can really damage you with what weapons they have, but still; best to avoid violence, right?"

IC: "We've still got to try to talk, someone has to take the first step, true? if they fire on us, we'll cripple them, and do as little life-taking as possible"

The Kechan ships signalled the nearest shuttle, stopping as they did so:

"Attention Talmaraani shuttle, we are Kechan ships allied with the people of Xanthal, we are here on a mission of peace, please erespond"

The shuttle replies with a harsh burst of static followed by a gruff male voice. "I don't care who you are! Outsiders only bring trouble! You can talk to somebody else outside the Talmaraan system. You're not wanted here, go home."

IC: "Negative Talmaraani shuttle, we're not leaving untill our mission is done, we are here on a mission of peace, we don't want any trouble"

Captain Devaltos grimaced at the exchange between the two peoples, the unfriendliness of the inhabitants of this system, were heard clearly through the comms channel. Though it seemed to be justified since this whole system seemed to be an ancient battleground.

"Scan's Officer! You pick up anything on your scanners?", Devaltos asked.

He was anwered immediately, "Nay, nothing out there currently but those ships that are falling back from the Kechan's".

What the hell is going on here?, Devaltos thoughts ran, This feels like a classic ambush, with the Kechan following onto some small insignificant ships. Though the fleet should easily repel them, Devaltos was an old experiance naval officer, and knew that it was dangerous for the Kechan to pursue this anyfurther

"Comms officer, open link to the Kechan's fleet officer and tell them it is pointless to open relations here. We should find our answer on a diplomatic front on their world, not seperated in an expance of space when you cant even see the faces of those whom you are trying to befriend. Please respond, over"

OOC: I wont be here on the 26-27 or 28th. Dont leave me dead :P

OOC: Noted.

IC: The shuttle in communication with the Kechan ship turns around and starts off back on its original course. "All outsiders want trouble. This conversation is over." The channel is cut in another burst of static.

Transmission from XAS-147 to all ships in the fleet: Open channel, uncoded.
"I'm not surprised that the Talmaraani are so angry at our presence. They were forced into becoming members of the old Xanthalian Empire when we staged a coup on their homeworld. They were always reluctant members of the second and third Empires, and left as soon as the Republic was founded to replace the Empires. Seems that since then things have only gotten worse. Don't expect an overt amount of kindness from these people."

Transmission from escorting Talmaraani shuttle to all ships in the fleet: Open channel, uncoded.
"I see you know your history, Captain. You're right, most of my people hate Xanthal. For what it's worth though, they hate what's been happening since you left even more. That might be your only hope of getting through to them. Talmaraan VIII is a mess, these shuttles are the only spacecraft we have left. Few of my people knew how to use Xanthalian technology when you left, the Empire had always run it for us. We were decimated when the Trasnians attacked. We were their slave laborers for over a decade before they left us for dead. After that, our planet was attacked four times in a row by people we'd never met. They plundered what little we had left. The Trasnians faught the fifth wave... They lost. Three more times we were attacked after that, in the final attack the invaders blew up the ninth and tenth planets in the system. I don't think they even cared that their actions would throw my world's orbit off. Talmaraan VIII is a boreal planet now, cold at the equator and uninhabitable in the northern and southern hemispheres. Millions died in the climate changes and earthquakes during the orbital shift. Shortly afterward we discovered that space orks had taken up residence on the fifth planet. We haven't been there since."

IC:

Elvarin: "We know the situation"

XAS-147: "Thats wasn't to terribly nice of you folks to do that"

Transmission from XAS-147 to all ships in the fleet: Open channel, uncoded.
"This is ancient history. Half of my crew wasn't even alive when the last Empire gave way to the Republic. Only a few Elves still survive from the time of the first Empire in Xanthal. The sins of the father and all that."

OOC: Haha! I am back and this thread has gotten even Better! :D by the way... thanks for the spot for the orks, I was gonna just have a floating space fortress but your way is excellent as well, thanks.

IC: The command deck of the Rigel falls silent, with the word SPACE ORKS.

"Exscuse me sir," Hrakness interjected, "Space orks, are on the 5th planet of this sytem?"

"Yes"

"Hellfire!" exclaimed the Captain, "This makes 5 known ork presences. Fleet, we'll need to keep an eye out. The orks are the closest thing the High Dominion has to an arch nemesis. They sacked two worlds controlled by us, their brutality is matched only by their lust for blood and cunning. They are more dangerous than they appear. Talmaari 06, you have the bond of the High Dominion, that ww will aid you in removing these green-skinned hordes from your system. We must know, how widespread have they been? and most importantly have you ever recieved any reports of a massive ship, likely made out of an asteroid with engines and parts of ships attached to it?"
______

"The orks must have moved in shortly after the fall of the Hlormar Radiant." said Hrakness to his XO colonel Alar.

"My god! That gives them about 6 years to establish. They'll be hard to uproot."

"Agreed, As soon as this exercise is complete, send a full report to command. We'll likely need a full contingent of Ordo Xenos kill teams before this is seen through."

Suddenly, the Situaiton officer called out, " Captain, were reading a small ship at extreme range, doesn't look like one of the Talmaari shuttles."

Hrakness thought, And now they're here.

The small ork ship had been perusing the asteroid belt looking for anything interesting to its crew, and they had noticed the fleet of ships moving through the belt. The ship was only about 300 ft long. The ship had a shade similar to a blocky formula one racer, except from the front where wheels might have been, were two massive, wicked looking blades that protruded out in front of the ship, which looked for all the world like two massive bowie knives. There were several turreted cannons on the slanted dorsal of the ship and guns also poked out from between the blades. The vessel was mostly unpainted and rusted and pitted in many places. Patches of plate steel were welded across portions of the hull.

"Oi wats dis? on duh spottin skreen?" asked one ork as they approached the extreme range of the fleets sensors.

"Luks like dem oomans got dem 'selves sum buddees. A hole mess uh dem!"

"Tell du boss bak at 'ome dat dere's a bunch a new grot-stinkin' oomans 'eaded 'is way."

One of the orks tried to send off the message at his console, bu the thing suddenely shorted out. He cursed loudly and grabbed a wrench out of the hands of a gretchin (goblin) nearby and whacked the console. It lit up again, and he sent the message.

"Der, letz not giv dat scum 'eaded Gorbash a 'ead start on uz. Charge 'em!"

The ship suddenly, leapt forward towards the fleet. It dodged and weaved through the asteroids at a breakneck pace, As it closed the blades of the front began to glow electrically, and their purpose became readily apparent. If the men onboard the ships of Xanthal and her allies, could have seen inside the ship, They would have the manic grins of the violence crazed orks and heard their insane laughter, as their ship hurtled heedlessly at the fleet.

OOC: Sorry this is long but you all deserve some basic explainations of the space orks.
Orks are not the greatest space-faring race in the galaxy. Their ships are often ill-kempt, unreliable rust buckets kept in operation only by the constant efforts of Ork Mekboyz and their Gretchin slaves. They make great use of salvaged hulks and their largest vessels are often refitted space hulks that providentially drift out of the warp near one of their worlds. Ork pirate attacks are brutally direct, with their ships rushing headlong towards their target, guns firing wildly as they come. Unfortunately Ork ships are exceedingly heavily armed for their size, so this tactic is harder to defeat than might be imagined.

You all should take a quck look at this link as it contains pictures and a basic description of the ork ship classes. I'll refer to them by their names in the future aka. terror ships, brute ram ships, kill kroozers, etc.
Ship categories READ PLEASE! (http://us.games-workshop.com/games/bfg/hobby/galleries/ork/default.htm)

OOC: Ah, Battlefleet Gothic...refreshing.

IC: The Kechan ships had continued roaming about, slightly seperated from the main Fleet, and they happened to detect the Space Ork ships first, in accordance with their own Standard Operating Procedures they raised their shield and weapons to Battle Status, then hailed the oncoming vessel:

"Attention unidentified vessel, identify yourself, and state your intentions!"

Then the AI of the KARMAC signalled all other ships of the Fleet, giving them a view of what was currently to far away for them to pick up on their own.

Transmission from XAS-147 to all ships in the fleet: Open channel, uncoded.
"Space orks. Wonderful. Kechan ships, forget talking. Open fire now. Rigel, Falasmayon is more familiar with the orks than anyone; you're our tactics advisors. All ships, go to maximum alert and prepare to fire on the hostiles. Talmaraani shuttle, you'd better get behind us."

The Xanthalian fleet charges it's weapons, training them on the rapidly incoming ship. If it got through the Kechans, they'd destroy it before it could hit them with an all-out assault by the entire fleet. The Talmaraani shuttle that has been escorting them falls back behind the Xanthalians for protection.

OOC:Man gone nearly a week with little chance to internet time and see what one misses. Good so far.

Teritora: Yeah, sorry you missed the boat on this one. I've not done an actual RP with you for several months (not counting that crappy rebellion RP).

IC: "We seem to be the MLR here...fine by us, just don't shoot us in the backsides, we're going to close rapidly with the enemy vessel and engage to give you more time, acknowledge please"

The Kechan ships lined up in a formation, the KARMAC was in the center, with all 10 of the other ship forming a ring abound it, making it look like some kind of disk to the Orks, the forward shields were given a power boost, then they began plowing forward, all forward weapons aimed at the Ork ship, but they didn't fire yet, much to the shock of the Main Fleet.

Transmission from XAS-147 to the Kechan fleet: Open channel, uncoded.
"Acknowledged."

Aboard XAS-147:
The male Xanthalian helm officer watches the Kechan fleet incredulously. "What are they doing?"
The captain watches the main viewscreen. "I don't know, but the Kechans are respectable warriors. They know what they're doing. Still, insurance never hurts. All ships ready to fire?"
The male Xanthalian tactical officer nods. "Yes Sir. Over 500 phaser, disrupter, and torpedo arrays are on target. If they break the Kechan line they'll never survive to reach us."

IC: As the Kechan ships plowed forward at their foe, they prepared to execute their maneuver, the AIs conversed on last-minute issues, and they waited to close to proper range.

OOC: I'll need to get off for 30-60 minutes now, sorry.

Hrakness looked on with disbelief and puzzlement as the Kechan vessels executed their maneuver.

What are they doing... why don't they just shoot the green skins!? They'd blast that ramship into smithereens!... Oh well, if it works good for them, if not then, they'll learn a lesson. thought Hrakness as he watched.

"SitCom. give me a full sensor sweep of as much of the asteroid field as you can. These are orks you know what to look for, anomolous gases, energy signatures, odd sensor profiles, anything. That ship probably isn't entirely alone out here, The orks probably have a Rok in the area somewhere."

"Yessir."

Hrakness redirected his attention back to the odd maneuver from the Kechans.

The ork ramship raced onward, totally oblivious to the Kechan maeuvers. The orks were having too much of a good time hooting and hollering to care what the stoopid 'oomans were doing as long as they stayed in their ships path. The ship commander ( the biggest ork on the ship) yelled into his primitive intercom for more speed, and the Mekboyz in the engine room, not willing to be outdone, started purposefully breaking safety valves and routing power around fail-safes in order to get more speed, when that option ran out, they started tossing, live gretchin into the reactor chamber, in the hopes that they would add to the fuel... incredibly it seemed to work as the ramship began to buffet and tremble but jumped forward again even faster. They would hit the lead Kechan ship in under 60 sec. At a speed fast enough to likely break both ships into big nasty pieces.

IC: At that very moment the KARMAC's AI sent the signal, and all the Kechan ships opened fire with all of their forward beam weapons, a total of 236 Phaser Banks, and 84 Multiphasic Disrupter Banks, all at Maximum Power, they also began to swerve slightly, to avoid any impact, the 10 ships forming the ring spread out, while the KARMAC dipped down.

OOC: well... I'm at a loss as to why you did the whole disk thing but oh well. I'm doing

IC: The ork ramship was engulfed by the torrent of energy at what amounted to point-blank range. The ship glowed for a moment, but was overcome in less that a second. The hull flaked apart like peeling paint and the overpressed engine promptly exploded in a fury of color. The ship was reduced to a hail of molten metal which pattered harmlessly against the Kechan shields.

*****
Transmission-fleetwide
"Excellent shooting, although you could have done it alot sooner, with the same results. In any case, this proves the presence of the orks here beyond a shadow of a doubt. We must exercise some caution, although we have firepower here beyond anything the orks could reasonably be expected to produce, these creatures are nothing if not cunning and resourceful. There is probably a Rok somewhere in the asteroid field, We are initiating long-range scans to make sure. We can likely continue onward through though. We'll spot them long before they spot us, I guarantee you. What we do about the Orks on Talmaar V is probably not up to us. If they see us they will attack. Just be on your guard, that the advice of a seasoned ork-fighter."

Transmission End

"Alright. Colonel Larn, what do we have as to markings or warband affiliation on that orks ramship, anything?"

"Not much sir, It wasn't painted so no visible clan colors, which doesn't really mean anything. There was a single glyph on the port side of the ship, looks like it was a cresent moon with eyes and teeth. They might be Bad Moons sir, but I'm not sure." responded the female XO.

"Good enough Larn, we'll deal with them the same anyway." responded the High-Captain.

OOC: To make sure the collective shield would hold together like a big wall, I read something like that in a Sci Fi fiction.

IC: The Kechan ships slowed to a stop and reformed, then sent a message to the Main Fleet:

"Enemy terminated"

Transmission from XAS-147 to the Kechan fleet: Open channel, uncoded.
"Return to the fleet immediately. We're clearing the asteroid field."

Transmission from XAS-147 to all ships in the fleet: Open channel, uncoded.
"We intercepted an outgoing communication from the ork ship just before it was destroyed. They've alerted the rest of their kind on Talmaraan V to our presence. The fleet is going to stop and investigate the current state of affairs on Talmaraan VIII before we push on to Talmaraan V. When we get there, The Elvarin and the Kechans will deploy their combat forces to the ground while the Xanthalian and Falasmayon ships focus on the orks' space forces. We'll deploy our own ground troops shortly after the first wave. The Kechan and Elvarin vessels can give us fire support from their own ships as well. We may need to resort to orbital bombardment of the planet if the situation is too bad, so be ready to pull your troops out. Anyway, I'm getting ahead of myself. For now, let's try to make our trip down to Talmaraan VIII as peaceful as possible. I'll contact you all shortly with instructions."

The fleet clears the asteroid belt and the first clear scans of Talmaraan VIII come through. They tell a sad story. The planet, once lush and beautiful, is now a polar wasteland on all but it's equator, which is covered in snow, but still habitable... Barely. Old, dark Xanthalian stations orbit the planet peacefully; abandoned. A small shipyard with a partially built transport sitting in it's core is a testament to the hurried departure of the Republic. The entire planet and everything around it looks asleep, like civilization has simply left for the moment, and may return any day. Such impressions are mistaken. The orbit of Talmaraan VIII is decaying. It is less than two decades away from breaking free of the Talmaraanian star and becoming a rogue planet; a barren, lifeless rock trapped in eternal darkness and winter. The Talmaraan star shines brightly on the glistening planet, but it provides too little warmth for its dying people. The bridge of every Xanthalian ship is silent. Those that remember the old Talmaraan VIII, the Xanthalian Talmaraan VIII, are burdened by a profound sense of loss and waste. Those that never knew the Talmaraan system are struck nonetheless by the pitiful scene. These Talmaraani were a people stabbed through by fate, bleeding slowly to their deaths. XAS-147 transmits an uncoded, undirected message out into space, the lament of the ship's Thanic captain staring in sorrow at the scene before her. "My god... What has the Republic done?"

OOC: ^ That was heavy... I just watched "Grave of the Fireflies", it put me in the perfect mood to write that kind of thing.

IC: A single voice responded to the XAS-147 from the Kechan ships:

"Only what just about every nation of respectable age has ever done"

The speaker was unidentified.

Aboard XAS-147:
The captain sits down in her chair. "What's the population of that planet?"
The female Xanthalian OPS officer does a life-form scan. "Ten thousand humanoids Sir."
The captain looks as if she has been physically punched. "Ten thousand... Out of Forty million..."
"Sir, perhaps you should get some rest. You've been up for almost thirty hours, and this isn't helping."
The captain gets up shakily and heads for the turbolift door. "Yes... Yes, you're right. Commander, you have the bridge."
She boards the turbolift and heads down to her quarters. The Ship's first officer, a male Chobit, hails the fleet.

Transmission from XAS-147 to all ships in the fleet: Open channel, uncoded.
"This is Commander Syris of XAS-147. The Captain's shift has ended. I will be the fleet commander until she returns. XAS-01, XAS-87; move to orbit the planet over the equator. I want two Kechan Andromedas to join them. XAS-09, dock with XSS-44 and see if you can bring the station back online. It's passive sensors should have gotten data on the happenings here. All remaining Kechan ships act as frontrunners. Move ahead to the seventh planet and watch for incoming orks. All other ships, deploy around the planet. I don't want anybody sneaking past us."

XAS-01 and XAS-87 head for orbit as XAS-09 docks with the massive derelict Xanthalian Mega class Space Station XSS-44. The other Xanthalian ships spread out in space, surrounding the planet in a loose pattern.

IC: All Kechan ships were still intact, and they formed up into a V formation, and headed for the seventh planet, minus the two Andromedas, running intense scans to seek out Ork forces:

"Fleet Command, do you want us to perform smoke-out procedures?"

Meanwhile, the KAR-09, and the KAR-10 moved to their ordered location over the Equator of the planet.

Transmission from XAS-147 to the Kecahn fleet: Open channel, uncoded.
"Negative. We just want a sentry, not an attack force."

Four shuttles depart from the two Xanthalian ships in orbit, two from each ship. They all head for different points on the surface, targeting major population areas. They touch down and their small crews start investigating the state of affairs on the surface. The crew of XAS-09 goes to work on the station, trying to get it operational with whatever they could find.

From KAR-09, and KAR-10 to Fleet Command:

"What are our orders? or are we just to sit here for now and look pretty?"

Main Kechan Fleet: The Kechan ships stood like sentries at the seventh planet, watching for enemy forces.

Transmission from XAS-147 to KAR-19 and KAR-10: Open channel, uncoded.
"You should send a shuttle down to the surface, we left a continent for you."

IC:

"Roger that, will send a shuttle"

Aboard the KAR-10 the crew prepared a portion of the soldiers they had aboard to go down to the surface.

...

OOC: Kind of slow-moving, alright, sending something down now.

IC: The Kechan ships KAR-09, and KAR-10 began scanning for major population zones, then each sent a single shuttle down, each heading for a different major population area of the target continent.

...

... OOC: Something on your mind?

Waiting for you to land.

Waiting for you to land. OOC: I was running some calculations, sorry if this proved to be a bother.

IC:

Shuttle One: The shuttle landed in the middle of what seemed to be a former population center, after it landed, a number of National Guard Heavy Infantry disembarked, along with a few other people.

Shuttle Two: The second shuttle landed far away from the first shuttle, in what seem to be another population center, a similar group disembarked.

One: The city is immense, it looks to be built with late twentieth century technology. The entire city is deserted, not a soul remains but a few frozen corpses lying scattered about. Most of downtown is a crumbling ruin, victim of one of the alien attacks years ago. By the looks of it, no one has lived here for at least five years.

Two: The crew of the second shuttle has more luck in finding civilization. Downtown is abandoned, but the city's western suburb is populated. Some citizens spit at the Kechans as they walk past, but most just ignore them. Not a single happy face can be seen in the whole town, and a pile of frozen corpses lies on the south end of the suburb, a testament to the dwindling population of the dying planet.

IC:

One: The Kechans stayed by their shuttle at first, and used their scanners to perform a detailed look at the city.

Two: 3 Heavy Infantry stay in the shuttle to guard it, along with the Armada pilot, whereas the remaining 7 Heavy Infantry move along into the Western Suburbs, their Powered Armor adjusted temperature and such to keep them comfortable enough, they began to look for someone who seemed to be in charge.

One: They find nothing of particular intrest. Some long-inactive Xanthalian facilities are the only anomoly among the otherwise technologically unsophisticated city.

Two: The seven infantry men sent out find no leader, just people trying to survive in an impossible situation. A few Talmaraani gather outside the shuttle, silently watching the mysterious foreign ship. A mother hastily picks up a child that strays too close and hurries off behind a nearby house.

IC:

One: Against their better judgement, three Heavy Infantry move out and make a closer examination of one of the derelict facilities.

Two: The 3 troops inside the shuttle debark to guard it from outside, the Powered Armor Suits making them look very deadly, and unfriendly, they perform scans on the nearby area, meanwhile, the other 7 decide to try and catch the attention of some of the Talmaraani people.

One: They come to a building with a heavy iron door. The door is locked, but frozen and brittle. It should be easy to break down.

Two: The Talmaraani around the shuttle disperse, avoiding the foreigners. The troops that try to get the attention of individual citizens fail miserably. They are ignored by everyone, even when they try to physically arrest people.

IC:

One: The leader of the team, already powerfull beyond Human levels due to Demihuman genetics, drew back her armored fists, clenched together like a club, and swung them into the door with all her strength.

Two: The troops around the shuttle go back to guarding it, standing still next to it, the 7 in the city group together, after a brief discussion one of them raises her G41 and fires a 3-round burst into the air.

One: The door falls off it's worn and brittle hinges and hits the ground with a loud clang that echoes down the deserted streets. The inside of the building is dark except for the faint glow of an active computer touch-screen console.

Two: A few people look up before continuing on. The rest just ignore the action completely. This is a world of those dead and those waiting to die. They no longer care about what is around them. They know that all they have ahead of them is starvation and death. They do not care if death meets with them sooner rather than later.

IC:

One: The 3 Kechans proceeded into the structure, reporting back every minute, they approached the active console.

Two: the leader of the 7 Kechans in the city shook her head sadly "Does anyone here care that we came to help you people!?!" she shouted.

One: The console displays a graphic of the city (all in red) and multitude of text and buttons, all written in Xanthalian (oh joy! Xanthalian: the language you love to hate translating). One of the buttons is flashing.

Two: A passer-by stops a moment to spit on the Kechan leader's boots before walking on.

IC:

One: Not feeling like being stupid, the Kechan report back to Fleet Command, with every detail, including pictures of the text and buttons.

Two: The Kechan team leader began to get mad, being a Kechan, she was prone to severe anger if annoyed long enough "My people came here on the request of the Xanthalians, to make sure you people don't die like small rodents, and this is the thanks we get!?! if someone doesn't stop and answer some questions, I'm gonna' get mad, and when I get mad, people DIE!!!"

One: A translation comes back from a Xanthalian ship. The Kechans are looking at the control panel for the central power station of the city. the flashing button is for activation of the power grid. Other buttons include "substation shutdown", "emergency cutoff", and "system diagnostic".

Two: The Kechan leader doesn't get spit on again, but she doesn't get any other reaction either. The people are ignoring her.

The High Dominion ships wait with the rest of the fleet, somewhat edgily. There had been no sign of the orks since leaving the asteroid field, this was both good and bad. Good because it meant the orks weren't busying themselves by attempting to blow up the Xanthallian allied force. Bad because it mean't that the orks weren't busy trying to blow up the Xanthallian allied force. If the orks weren't attacking, they were scheming and in his Captain Hrakness had decided that attacking orks were better than scheming orks. The Falasmayon ships kept watch.

Transmission to XAS-147
How go the attempts to reactivate the station?

A Gretchin runner entered the hall of Grobash Nazdreg, interrupting his meal. The massive ork warlord promptly blew his head apart with a round from a greatly oversized pistol. Then thinking better of it, he picked up the message thegrot had been carrying... and a great toothy grin spread across his jagged visage. He grabbed his weaponry and pounded out of the hall, yelling for his lieutenants. The note fluttered to the gound, it read:

"Slargash sez, 'oomans kumin. Lotz a dem. Get reddy!"

On the ruined planet of Talmaar V the orks prepared to once again slake their thirst for blood. They pushed their human slaves harder as they churned out the last of the orkish engines of war. Massive tanks, guns, warbikes and Trakks lined up in staging areas, While a massive ork Aramada lifted off from their ground positions. Huge numbers of Onslaught and Savage Gunships rose from their landing sites while scores of Ramships rose to the heavens in clouds. In orbit the smaller vessels met up with the Terrorships and Kill Kroozers which orbited the planet, but the true menace of the space orks was yet to be revealed...

IC:

One: The leader of the Kechans in the area taps the button for a system diagnostic, wanting to avoid blowing herself up by starting a faulty power grid.

Two: The Kechan leader nodded "Fine, we'll be back" the Kechans began moving deeper into the populated area, looking for anyone who will speak with them, elders, small children who are still young enough to be overcome by curiosity, anyone.

Falasmayon/The Space Orks: OOC: Ground rule: Keep the orks behind the seventh planet for now. I want to see through the Talmaraan VIII RP without orkish interference. Besides, we should wait for The Elvarin to return before we get into the heavy action.
IC: Transmission from XAS-147 to the Falasmayon fleet: Open channel, uncoded.
"Ask XAS-09. They're the ones working on it."

Kecha:
One: She is glad for her caution. The diagnostic (once translated) reveals dozens of breaks in the power grid, as well as several faulty reactors and subsystems. Without maintenence in perpetual winter conditions the system could not stand up to the stress. The display switches back to the main screen, which looks the same as before except the "activate power grid" button is no longer available, it has been replaced by a button reading "override safety protocols".
Two: No one volunteers, but a few citizens in the southeastern part of the settlement seem slightly less averted to the Kechans. With a little coaxing, it seems that some of them may be persuaded to carry on a civilized discussion.

OOC: Back...i had to lawn mow an acre of sloping hill .....it wasnt fun :P

IC: Which sector of the planet are we to deploy our warriors? Or should we reinforce the Kechan's on the ground?

OOC: Try cutting some of the branches off of trees, I've got no idea why I was asked to do so, but I did it.

IC:

One: She sends the data back to the Fleet Command, with a request for instruction, as it is a Xanthalian facility.

Two: The Kechans begin looking around, trying to find someone who doesn't run away as they approach, the leader of the team eventually stops "Does anybody have a spare moment?" she asks to anyone listening.

OOC: Got it. I wasn't going to have the orks do anything until we reached Talmaar V anyway.

IC: The Rigel poses the same question about the station to XAS-09.

(Just for reference, which Xanthallian ship is the Flagship of this force. I thoght it was XAS-147... if not which one?

Falasmayon: OOC: You are correct. XAS-147 is the fleet leader.

Transmission from XAS-147 to the Elvarin ship: Open channel, uncoded.
"You can move ahead and join the Kechans at the seventh orbital or just wait here."

Transmission from XAS-09 to the Falasmayon fleet: Open channel, uncoded.
"We're making progress, but there are a lot of systems that just didn't hold up without maintenance for two decades. It looks like this place has been looted, too; some things are completely missing. Give us another half hour."

Kecha:
One: She gets a reply from XAS-147 "Well, unless you want to get blown up I wouldn't activate the power grid. I guess you could try to fix it, but I'm not sure what that would accomplish. I suggest you move on and try to find something more useful. Shut the console off before you go, Universe only knows why it was on in the first place."
Two: A few people make their way slowly to the Kechans. They don't say anything, but they are obviously listening.

IC:

One: "Roger that" the Kechan group leader shut down the console, and the Kechans moved along, going deeper into the facility.

Two: "Alright" the leader said "Thanks for cooperating some, I'm Sergeant Davies, from the Great White Holy Empire of Kecha, my people are assisting the Socialist Republic of Xanthal in re-exploring this world, and others in the Talmaraan System to see if anybody can be rescued, or if everyone is dead, so far this is one of the few places we've found anyone" Davies stopped to let anyone who wanted to reply speak up.

IC: "Roger that, will depoly the Dragon Knights on the surface amongst the Kechan's and provide them with orbital support. Hammer Of Orion out."

And with that done, the Ship turned towards the world to give assisstance to the Kechan's.

IC: The Kechan ships send coordinates for their groups on the ground to the Hammer of Orion.

"Thank you for your coordinates, shuttles locking on now and five squads are being sent with Marshal Arethas as well. You should be seeing them soon. Hammer of Orion out"

+++++++++++++++++++++++

Arethas felt the ship entering the atmosphere, and rejoiced for he knew that he would soon feel of some use at last. Though this was a mission of peace, nevertheless he was happy to be on a world where his skills does matter. Let us hope that I may not have to use it on the denizens of this world, Arethas suddenly thought darkly, I hope i dont have to find out

And with that he rested his head against the cushioned seat and awaited his arrival amongst the Kechan's.

http://oz.games-workshop.com/warhammerworld/warhammer/highelves/HE-articles/images/heartwork6a.jpg
Marshal Arethas Brightwing The Blind
Of The House Of Tel Alorn
2nd In Command Of The Dragon Knights

The Elvarin: OOC: I meant go to the seventh planet. Oh well, that works too.

Kecha:
One: They come to another door. This one is still solid and reinforced with a force field. There is a code keypad beside the door. A digital display reads (I'll just assume you're getting streaming translations by now) "Enter code for access."
Two: One of them perks up at the mention of Xanthal, two show no response. The rest of the crowd moves on, bored. They've heard empty promises before.

IC:

One: They call back for help from the Xanthalians, and from the AI on the KARMAC.

Two: The Kechans approach the one who perked at the word 'Xanthal' "Caught your interest have we?" the leader asks.

Kecha:
One: The Xanthalians come back a few minutes later with a code. "50244."
Two: The Talmaraanian backs off a step. "Mabye. Keep talking; what do you want from us?"

IC:

One: The Kechans punch in the code.

Two: "We want to help you, simple as that"

OOC: One, two, one, two... :P

IC:
One: The door opens into another room, this one with a huge glowing cylinder extending from ceiling to floor and plunging several hundred meters lower through a wide shaft fenced off with a railing. There are consoles everywhere, all shut off.
Two: "Indeed. That's too simple. I've heard those words many times."

IC:

One: They send back a report again.

Two: "Well, we mean it, what's your name?"

Kecha:
One: "It's a power core. Central reactor for the entire city's power supply. Still active, but in standby mode. The rest of the room is shut down. If you want to continue further into the building you can take the lift. Should be on your right as you come in the door."
Two: "I'm not giving my real nameto strangers, especially not outsider strangers. You can call me Smith."

IC:

One: "Anything we should do here before moving on?"

Two: "This is going to be difficult then smith" the Kechan leader turned to one of her fellow soldiers "Get the thirty-cal' out now, in case something goes up" one of the Kechans had a 30-calibre Light Machine Gun slung acrossed her back, she now slung her Assault Rifle over her shoulder as she took the LMG off and checked it over.

Kecha:
One: "Well, not unless you want to do something with the reactor. I don't see why you'd want to, though."
Two: The Kechans lose the last of their audience save for 'Smith'. "If you want to play the violence game, I'll walk away right now."

IC:

One: "True, we'll take the lift then" the Kechans make their way to the lift.

Two: "Smith, we're not playing games, there're Hostile Forces in this System, they could be on this planet, we don't like to stand around in one place looking like fat targets" she paused "The saftey's are on, see?" she proceeded to show him the saftey mechanism on the LMG was on.

Kecha:
One: The lift is big enough to hold five people at once. It is not enclosed, it has only hand railings to keep occupants from falling to the floor 400 meters down. The bottom is impossible to see clearly from this height, though the core's glow illuminates it a little. A sharp-eyed observer can make out more consoles and several doorways in the walls and floor below.
Two: "I don't give a damn if there are hostile forces here or not. You wanna talk to me, you keep the guns down."

IC:

One: The 3 Kechans pile onto the lift with caution, and activate it, heading down.

Two: "I'll be honest with you Smith, you're lucky we need to speak with you people, or I'd have snapped before now, Alisha, put it up" the Kechan with the LMG seemed about to argue, then slung the weapon over her shoulder again.

Kecha:
One: They reach the bottom. Not much interesting is there, but there is a single active console that catches the eye.

Two: "Wonderful. What exactly is it you need to speak with us about? Seems like you're the one doing the talking."

IC:

One: They head over to look at it.

Two: "Simple enough, even if you don't believe it, we're here to help you folks out, is there any form of government surviving here that you know of Smith?"

Kecha:
One: The console readout translates as follows: "Containment failure in sector three. Seal broken. The destruction of downtown has compromised the entire gamma quadrant substation. Radiation levels are above safety tolerances throughout gamma, beta, and alpha quadrants. These quadrants have been sealed off. Delta quadrant reactor and radiation seals are holding. Auto shutoff protocols offline. Auto repair protocols offline. No personnel available."
Two: Smith chuckles. "Government died when the Trasnians came. They killed every member of our independant government. When they left, there was too little infrastructure left to make an effective planetwide government. Just as we were settling in to independence the Onnarum did something to alter this planet's orbit. What little we had left was destroyed then. We are a doomed race now."

The shuttle landed on the surface to the screams of roaring thrusters as it deployed five Dragon Knight squads in perfect order, moving with precise coordination as they scattered to protect the shuttle from any enemy approach.

Arethas strode out, his ornate armour now on, as he listened for signs of the Kechans.

http://oz.games-workshop.com/warhammerworld/warhammer/highelves/HE-articles/images/heartwork6a.jpg
Marshal Arethas Brightwing The Blind
Of The House Of Tel Alorn
2nd In Command Of The Dragon Knights

OOC: My computer has overheating probelms so wont be on for a while. Dont think me dead :wink:

IC:

One: They report back with the information they have.

Two: "Doomed? not anymore Smith, have you not been listening to me? we're here to help"

Kecha:
One: "You're in the central control structure now. That area is contaminated. Recommend you proceed immediately to the Delta Quadrant of the facility. There are four doors, one on each wall. Go through the one marked with the 'Delta' symbol, the triangle."
Two: "Have you not been listening to me? I said that I do not believe you, and neither will anyone else here. You said you came with the Xanthalians. Is that true?"

IC:

One: "Ours suits can partially help us, will follow instructions, over" they headed quickly to the prescribed door.

Two: "Yes, we came with them because they requested it, they haven't been an Empire for ages now, and before you ask, no we're not a Protectorate of theirs or anything like that, they couldn't conquer us if they tried"

Kecha:
One: OOC: The rest of your team (the ones you left on the top floor) will probably want to come too.
Two: "Kechan, right? Don't make me laugh. Somehow I doubt your nation's position in the power heirarchy of space hasn't surpassed Xanthal's in these twenty years. You've obviously advanced somewhat though; nice suits. Big guns too. You say you're with the Xanthalians, I say prove it."

IC:

One: The remaining Kechans of that team make their way to their comrades, their shuttle lifts off.

Two: They remaining Kechan made their way to the soldiers talking to Smith, and their shuttle lifted off, the Kechan group's leader kept speaking to Smith "How could I prove it to you? tell me how and I'll do what I can"

Kecha:
One: The door opens into a 20X10 sealed chamber with another door in front (also bearing the triangle mark) and the words "Delta Quadrant Outer Checkpoint" written on the floor.
Two: Smith leans on a nearby trash can. "Show me a live Xanthalian. If they tell me they're with you I might believe you."

Arethas heard a shuttle lifting off and as well a heated argument over the noise. He proceeded towards the sounds of the argument and heard the words, "Xanthalians" and "proof".

He stopped aproximately where there seems to be a large gathering and asked, "I seek the commander of this Kechan's force. I would like to offer my service".

He awaited a responce.

http://oz.games-workshop.com/warhammerworld/warhammer/highelves/HE-articles/images/heartwork6a.jpg
Marshal Arethas Brightwing The Blind
Of The House Of Tel Alorn
2nd In Command Of The Dragon Knights

Smith looks at the newcomers with a grin. "And who are you people? More Kechans?"

Arethas turned towards the voice and answered, "I dont believe we are. I am an elf of The Elvarin empire. You dont sound like a Kechan. Are you an inhabitant of this world?"

http://oz.games-workshop.com/warhammerworld/warhammer/highelves/HE-articles/images/heartwork6a.jpg
Marshal Arethas Brightwing The Blind
Of The House Of Tel Alorn
2nd In Command Of The Dragon Knights

"Damn right I am. Are you allied with the Xanthalians too?"

"Yes, we currently offered our services in goodwill. I am Marshal Arethas Brightwing The Blind", he grimaced, "for obvious reasons". He pointed to where his eyes should have been, wrapped in a red cloth.

"We come in peace and to offer any assistance to the surviors of this world".

http://oz.games-workshop.com/warhammerworld/warhammer/highelves/HE-articles/images/heartwork6a.jpg
Marshal Arethas Brightwing The Blind
Of The House Of Tel Alorn
2nd In Command Of The Dragon Knights

IC:

One: The team examines the area.

Two: "Be carefull, the Talmaraani aren't a trusting lot"

One: The door shuts behind them and a soft buzzing noise sounds, coupled with the male voice of a computer. "Scanning for radiation contamination... Contamination found. Neutralizing radiation... Done. Proceed to the next chamber." The door ahead of them opens into another room, identical to the first except with the words "Delta Quadrant Inner Checkpoint" written on the floor.

Two: Smith taps his foot impatiently. "I'm waiting... Can you show me a Xanthalian to collaborate your story or not?"

Arethas tilted his head in amusement as he contemplated the question and thanked the Kechan.

"You would wish to see a Xanthalian? Are you of sufficient authority that resources should be diverted to transport them into the region? How bout something more reasonable like a holographic communication. And you can ask them about their history to clarify that they are truly Xanthalian".

He turned towards the Kechan and asked, "And may I meet your commanding officer? I would like to clarify my role in this area"

http://oz.games-workshop.com/warhammerworld/warhammer/highelves/HE-articles/images/heartwork6a.jpg
Marshal Arethas Brightwing The Blind
Of The House Of Tel Alorn
2nd In Command Of The Dragon Knights

Smith turns on his heel. "Fine, Marshal Arethas Brightwing The Blind. Enjoy your stay on Talmaraan VIII. Be careful, some of my people still have guns. You wouldn't want anyone to shoot off those pointy ears of yours." He begins walking away.

Strange creatures these, Arethas mused quietly to himself choosing to ignore the ignorant remarks of the Talmaraani. Only the rude and uncouth would make degrading racial remarks, but Arethas was civilised and more older than this being to be fazed.

He replied to the Xanthalian who was walking away, "Just because of deprivation, you believe that gives you a natural right to be as rude and offensive as you can be? We offer help and you spurn it. We try to cooperate but you make things difficult and threaten to use force when we have applied none. Is this what becomes of a mighty space faring race, to wallow in their destruction while others are whiling to help them rise once more? I pity you and your kind on this world. But it is our duty to help and no matter that you despise us, we intend to save this world and all who live on it".

Arethas called out more quietly now but was still heard, "Cant you at least help us, help you?"

http://oz.games-workshop.com/warhammerworld/warhammer/highelves/HE-articles/images/heartwork6a.jpg
Marshal Arethas Brightwing The Blind
Of The House Of Tel Alorn
2nd In Command Of The Dragon Knights

Smith looks back. "I don't care what your motives are, if your objective is to save us you'll need our help. You probably won't get help except through me. I won't give it unless you can show me a living, breathing Xanthalian to collaborate your story. Shall I write it down, or is that too much for you to comprehend? Perhaps I could illustrate it. Stop being dense. You have my terms, take them or leave them."

Arethas turned towards the kechans and asked, "Are they always this difficult to communicate with? For I shall leave it to yourselves this deal with this mortal".

He shooked his head as asked the kechans once again, "So who is your officer?"

OOC: Xanthal....you have created perhaps the most irritating creature in the entire galaxy. So I will leave it to the Kechans to handle this nightmare :lol:

OOC: Sorry, I've had stuff keeping me out of Ns for awhile.

IC:

One: The team examined their surroundings slowly.

Two: The Kechan leader turned to Smith "Alright Smith, you're an arrogant, disgusting little man, but my orders are to avoid killing Natives if possible, so I'll see about getting you a live Xanthalian"

One: The only exit is through to the next room.
Two: "Good. You do that."

Aboard the bridge of the Hammer of Orion, the comms officer received a message and was stunned by what he heard.

"Sir! You better come and hear this!", he turned in his chair and yelled in excitement.

Captain Delvatos appeared by his officer side and listened intently to the message. The crew were starting to gather round when suddenly, he stood up ramrod straight.

Gazing round at his men, he stated, "We are at war".

+++++++++++++++

Marshal Arethas received the news minutes later and replied back to the Captain, "We will return to the ship immediately".

Turning round in the direction of the Kechans, he informed, "My nation is in a state of readiness for war. It was interesting to feel this world. Farewell".

And with that, he awaited the arrival of a shuttle to upload his men.

+++++++++++++++

"....so you see XAS-147, our empire is preparing for war with a race called the Zalcoor. We cannot remain with this expedition and must return with due haste to our nation. Please forgive us for this shortening of our service.", Captain Delvatos awaited a reply as he turned and requested for how long before the Dragon Knights are aboard.

"No problem. Good luck. Be careful on your way out, watch for stray orks."

"Will do. Hammer Of Orion out!", Captain Devaltos ended and sat back down in his seat. War, I never thought it possible, he shook his head sadly and turned to his aide.

"Has the Dragon Knights boarded yet?"

His aide nodded and Devaltos sighed, "Excellent, prepare for warp entry!", he ordered as the crew prepared themselves for the jump.

+++++++++++++

In front of the sleek vessel, a hole in reality was ripped asunder as the ship propelled itself into its unholy depth. With void shields flaring, the ship was encompassed by its maw, and it finally sealed itself behind the Hammer Of Orion.

"Will do. Hammer Of Orion out!", Captain Devaltos ended and sat back down in his seat. War, I never thought it possible, he shook his head sadly and turned to his aide.

"Has the Dragon Knights boarded yet?"

His aide nodded and Devaltos sighed, "Excellent, prepare for warp entry!", he ordered as the crew prepared themselves for the jump.

+++++++++++++

In front of the sleek vessel, a hole in reality was ripped asunder as the ship propelled itself into its unholy depths. With void shields flaring, the ship was encompassed by its maw, and it finally sealed itself behind the Hammer Of Orion.

"Hmm. Well the departure of the Elvarin only makes us more shorthanded." thought Captain Hrakness. "Tell the Xanthallians that we still stand ready when they come up with something useful for us to do, aside from taking space."

OOC: I wish Kacha would be on more...

IC: Many Sabre class ships begin to nose further from the planet, investigating the surrounding space.

OOC: Indeed. perhaps we move on without Kecha in a bit.

IC: "Ask the Xanthallians if they were able to get anything useful out of that old station of theirs." ordered Hrakness.

OOC: Well, I'll give you a place to RP too.

IC: "We're just about to bring the station online. Would you like to send a team over to help sift through the facility for evidence?"

"Gladly, although the Dominion specialty, has always laid in the biological sciences, we'd be more than happy to assist. we'll send a team over by gunship."

A few minutes later, an Anaconda-class gunship leaft the main bay of one of the Battlestars and powered over to the station. It docked near the Xanthallian shuttle, and the team disemarked.

They headed for the location of the Xanthallians.

OOC: An Andromeda class starship is hardly a shuttle, my friend.

IC: The starbase is dark, completely powered down. The bulk of the Xanthalian boarding party is in engineering, and they greet the Dominion team. Their leader, an unremarkable female Xanthalian wearing the rank pips of an Armada Lieutenant Commander, steps forward. "We're ready when you are. Shall we give it a go?"

OOC: Sorry, I thought your starship sent a shuttle over, rather than docking itself.

IC: A young man stands forward wearing Lt. Commander ensignia.
"Yes lets. My name is Tor Raaken, since this is your installation why don't you lead the way. We'll assist and see what we can do."

"We're not going to follow you around. With any luck you'll be able to get directions from Patricia." The Xanthalian turns to her team. "Okay, let's give it a shot!" The station lights up as power is restored throughout the facility. A pleasant female AI voice drifts through the corridors. "XAN-AI-44951 is now online. Last active Earth date February third, three thousand three hundred and three. Current date October eleventh, three thousand three hundred and twenty-five. Current time is thirteen hundred nineteen hours. All decks pressurized. All systems functional. Structure is nominal. Self-diagnostic shows green. Access to this station has been restricted in consideration of Talmaraani independence. Warning: This station's orbit is decaying. Correcting orbit now. Warning: Talmaraan VIII has shifted it's stellar position. Warning: The ninth and tenth planets in the system are missing. Access system with codes from Armada Command archives."

Raaken and his team jostled slighltly as the lights tremors from the station correcting its orbit ran through the installation. Turning to the Xanthallians he says, " Well, its your command codes we need, can you input them, or give us one of them. Since they're at least a decade old I doubt it would constitute a security leak for us to have the access codes."

"No problem, we brought them along. Armada Command figured we'd probably want access to at least one of these places." The Xanthalian Commander pulls a small datadisk from her uniform pocket and inserts it into a console. She spends a few seconds tapping at the console's buttons, then stands back. "There we go."
The AI's voice sounds out again. "Normal system access restored. Greetings, I am XAN-AI-44951. My crew calls me Patricia. Unfortunately they seem to be gone at the moment. Care to fill me in?"
The Xanthalian laughs. "I'm Lieutenant Commander Jodi Hicks, of the Xanthalian Armada. You've been out for a while. Please, feel free to link up with our vessel's AI. He'll be able to fill you in on what you've missed."
"Acknowledged. Thank you Commander. I am processing that data now."

OOC: well, it seems to me that there should be another post about what happens when patricia is finished getting updated on the situation, barring that im a little unsure on what to ask the AI to do.

"Data updated. What are you intending to do here? It seems somewhat of a lost cause."
Jodi shrugs. "That's my thought too, but the guys up above want us to try saving the system somehow. If we can't then we'll have to evacuate the Talmaraani, whether they like it or not."

OOC: Well you talked me into it, i'm back.

IC: "Indeed, I don't know if you can tell us anything of use Patricia, but do you have sensor data for the past few years? I really don't know what we'd be looking for, but if there's anything that would importance to our mission here we could use the information. Raaken said. I dont know what we'll get out of this. It might be better to just move in-system and try to get on with this, every minute we wait gives the orks more time to prepare. he thought.

"My sensors have not operated since my shutdown. However, I can attempt to access another station that may have that data. Please wait while I search the system for active sensor arrays."

OOC: Sorry for my absence, you guys still want me in here?

Nothing has happened in your part of the RP. Carry on from where we left off.

OOC: Alright, I'll only post concerning the group with Smith for now.

IC:

Two: The Kechan team leader called up to Fleet Command:

"We got ourselves a Native here, wants to meet a live Xanthalian in person to prove you're with us"

"Is the situation safe?"

"Is the situation safe?"

"As it can be, but he won't let us take out our big guns, or he'll leave"

The air shimmers and a male Xanthalian appears. "Yo."
Smith bows deeply. "Sir."
The Xanthalian raises his eyebrow and looks at the Kechans.

IC:

Two: "Something we can do for you sir?" the Kechan unit leader said, after snapping a quick half-salute.

The Xanthalian laughs and turns so they can see his rank pips. "No need to bother saluting me, I'm only an Ensign."
He looks at Smith again. "I'm told you wanted to see a Xanthalian. Here I am."
Smith smiles. "So it is true. You have returned for us."
The Xanthalian shrugs. "Our government was worried about you. Since the Trasnians are gone now, they decided to check up. Looks like it's a good thing they did, too. You're in pretty bad shape."
Smith nods and walks to the Kechan team leader. "I'm sorry to have doubted you. I'm in your hands."

Hmm, this thread looks like it is dying a slow painful death...

Yeah, but that's okay. I'll just make up an ending or something.

Sorry if this dies because of me, I'm somewhat sick, I hate tough Winters.