NationStates Jolt Archive

Today the first of the Torq Class vessels, The Divination leaves the shipyards at the SOLAR Station. Its mission is to locate a world rich in resources that is uninhabited so we can begin colonization.

The Vessel is about 1500 feet long and will use the new interstellar drive developed at the Imperial Shipyards. The Divination has undergone extensive tests and appears to be able to travel from the Kraken situated just inside the Oort Cloud to the SOLAR Station in orbit near Sol without any time delay. That is almost 50,000 AUs!

The Divination has been outfitted with a flight deck for two dozen Proteus Fighters, two shuttle craft, and four resource collectors. The addition of an automated factory will allow the replacement of missing parts. The navigation system as well as the communications and the computer systems operate on Neurononics. This will allow the entire ship to operate with the efficiency and speed of thought. Since the Divination will be exploring and encountering unknown biologicals, a complete medical facility has been added as well as the most advanced laboratories the Empire can provide. The same bioreflective armor we currently have on the Proteus fighters has been grown and added to the Divination. We have also spent the last two years training a crew of 1000 to man the ship. In total we have been building and training for this mission for almost a decade.

Captain Bryce Galladu, the Emperors own nephew will command this historic mission to expand our reach to the stars themselves.

As the 1500 foot vessel slowly left the shipyards, the tractor beams helped guide the vessel safely away from the mass of vessels trying to get a view of the Divination as she disembarks. On the Bridge the captain sat in his chair gazing at the ships.

“Well, I guess we better give them something to show their children. Light her up.”

Almost as one the hull lights winked into brilliance and all the internal lights turned on.

“Command, this is the Divination. We request permission to leave docking and engage drive.”

“Divination, this is Command. You have permission to proceed to sector 12. Once there you can engage your Drive.”

“Roger, Command. This is the Divination commencing movement.”

The Ion drives ignited and the ship slowly moved out of the shipyards and stopped just outside in sector 12, the closest to the crowd. The Ion Drives shut down and the crew began to prep the Torq Drive. After a few minutes, more for drama than anything else, the Torq Drive was engaged. A distortion appeared and formed into a ripple ringing the ship. The Divination became hazy and then it disappeared in a blurry streak.

http://img78.photobucket.com/albums/v248/beldragos/torqship2.jpg

The spectators gasped in awe while the television crews hurried to wrap up their reports.

_________________________________________________________

Aboard the Divination:

“Captain”, an alarmed voice exclaimed. “We cleared the Oort Cloud and then the Torq started cascadi…………”

Two days after Divination launch……….


News broadcast

Much of the world woke up to a new visitor in the heavens. At 3:14 GMT a startling bright supernova appeared, surprising astronomers. Apparently there are no known stars of that category in this position. The authorities at the Imperial Observatory suggest it is a bright nova shining through a gravitational lens from another galaxy. If that is true, it should disappear in a few days.

http://img78.photobucket.com/albums/v248/beldragos/supernovab.jpg

In other news, the launch of the Divination is marred by the lack of communications with the ship. It is thought there is a malfunction with the communications system or they might be too far away for the signal to reach us. As we know more, we will keep our viewers informed….



Behind closed doors at an emergency meeting within the Imperial Palace…

“What do you mean you don’t know where the Divination is? It’s your job to know. If you lost the Emperor’s nephew, I wouldn’t want to be in your shoes.” Dr Fraviuns was furious. “Now I have to go upstairs and tell the Emperor we lost Bryce? No, you better be sure before I make that walk. We still have the Posi-Grav Drive prototype out at the Kraken. Send it after the Divination.”

The aid he was talking to gasped in surprise at this order. “But Sir, the last time we tried to use it the entire lab imploded!”

Dr. Fraviuns gave a small chuckle and explained, “That was the beta model we tested. It reacted with the gravity well of Sol and imploded. We have made a few modifications during the past 6 years. The ship can be used in-system but at low power. There aren’t any strong gravity wells out by the Oort cloud so it will be safe. Send out the Flinx to rendezvous with the Divination’s flight path and follow them at top speed.”

#tagged...

tag

Two hours later…

http://img78.photobucket.com/albums/v248/beldragos/prototype.jpg

The Flinx left its berth at the Kraken Research Facility just outside the Oort cloud and engaged its Posi-Grav drive. The crew diverted power from the fusion reactor to the Caplis generator located in the fan shaped aperture at the end of the arm. A sphere of nothingness appeared within the cone. The Flinx moved forward gradually picking up speed. The ship continued until it reached the coordinates of the Divination’s flight path. The Flinx re-orientated itself so it was pointed away from Earth.

“This is the Flinx calling The Kraken. Do you read me?’

“This is Kraken, report your status.”

“We have achieved the designated coordinates and aligned to the Divination’s flight path. The flight path seems to lead toward the supernova.”

“Roger that Flinx. Proceed with the mission but be careful. We don’t have to remind you what will happen if you go too near the anomaly.”

“That is for certain, Kraken. We don’t want to be squeezed within a singularity. Engaging the Posi-Grav drive.”

The zone of nothingness appeared again and the ship began to move again. The Flinx began to move faster while the field became more intense. As they approached the speed of light, the drive field began to take the shape of a teardrop pointing towards the direction of travel. The ship exceeded the speed of light and entered space-plus. The drive field took upon itself a purplish hue and the Doppler shift caused the stars to appear as prismatic lines. The acceleration rate started to go up enormously as the ship passed through Changeover. As the ship moved through space-plus, the drive field repelled matter away from the ship, avoiding collisions that would be instantaneously fatal.

-OOC-
=TAG=

Several hours later

The Flinx approached the supernova following the flight path of the Divination. The path appeared to lead right through the heart of the nova.

http://img78.photobucket.com/albums/v248/beldragos/Supernova.jpg

The Flinx dropped back into normal space and slowed to a halt.

“This is the Flinx calling Kraken Research Vessel. I repeat, this is the Flinx calling the Kraken. Please Reply.”

“Kraken here, what do you have to report?”

“The flight path appears to pass through the heart of the supernova. The anomaly is not in another galaxy like the Imperial Observatory suggested. It is a few light years outside our solar system. We are transmitting the data through space-minus. I hope the Divination didn’t pass…”

“Captain, I have detected an electronic signal.”

“What is it? Show me”

On a monitor a view of black space appeared. The image magnified until a small device could be seen tumbling through space.

“It appears to be a data beacon. Send a Proteus fighter to retrieve the item”

http://img78.photobucket.com/albums/v248/beldragos/proteus9.jpg

Minutes later a single fighter launched from the Flinx. The pilot flew out to the object and captured it with the fighter’s tractor beam and towed it to the Flinx.

Aboard the Flinx, the crew puts the data beacon in storage. The ship sets coordinates for the Kraken and disappears into Space-Plus.

The Flinx dropped out of Space-Plus.

“This is the Flinx calling Command. I repeat, this is the Flinx calling Command.”

“This is Command. How was the trip Flinx?”

“Quite the sightseer tour. Requesting permission to dock.”

You have permission to dock in bay zero-one-niner”

http://img78.photobucket.com/albums/v248/beldragos/Oortstation.jpg

They approached the Oort Station, passing the shipyards as they slowed to dock along side the Kraken. A squad of soldiers escorted the data beacon to the lab to have it analyzed.

(OOC: This is pretty good RP for a newb...)

OOC: Thanks, I'll add some more later tonight.

Hours later…

The door of the briefing room opened and the Comanding Officer of the Oort Station entered followed by an older civilian wearing a suit. The scientist waiting in the room hushed as they entered the room and sat down. After a moment the older man nodded to the officer and they both joined the rest at the table.

“Well, what have you discovered?” asked Commander Tiergen.

“We are still trying to decode some of the Data Beacons memory dump but we have most of the details what happened. It appears that the…”

“Excuse me, but what exactly is this beacon you spoke of?” interrupted the civilian.

“Um, Sir?” the scientist shot a questing look at Cmdr Tiergen.

“Speak freely in front of him. This is Doctor Fraviuns, the Imperial Representative sent here by the Emperor Himself“, answered Commander Tiergen.

“Well, the computer aboard the Divination was set to record all of the sensor logs, both internal and external. The computer also created a mirror of the data and recorded it in a specially designed pod that was automatically ejected in the case of a catastrophic event such as an attack, collision, or even the destruction of the ship. We even designed the beacon to resemble shrapnel just in case the ship was attacked. The device was designed to run silent until it could not detect any hostiles nearby before transmitting a signal through Space-Minus,” explained the scientist.

“Yes, I remember approving that project,” Dr. Fraviuns continued, “It was based upon the black boxes of the late 20th century. Please continue with your findings.”

“The logs show the engines were operating just as we designed. The Divination left the outer edge of the Oort Cloud into interstellar space. That is when the trouble started. There was an energy spike in the engine. The imbalance caused it to under go a cascade. The cascade triggered an implosion in the engine core and the Torq effect made the implosion multi-dimensional. That is why the explosion resembles a supernova.”

“How long will the anomaly remain?” queried the Commander.

“We are not sure.” answered the scientist, “It ripped a dimensional hole and the explosion is continuing through the other dimensions. It is uncertain how long it will actually last.”

“Where did this energy spike come from?” asked Tiergen.

“That is the curious thing. The systems analysis shows no place it could have originated. If it came from some other part of the ship, there would be a record of a drop in power. It would have to come from somewhere but all the other systems show the levels remained consistent with normal operational parameters. The only place it could have come from is an external source. That part of the beacon is still being analyzed.”

“So, what you are suggesting is either it was a fluke of nature or sabotage that destroyed the Divination” commented Dr Fraviuns. “Is this what I should report to the Emperor?”

“No sir, we need more time to finish analyzing the beacon so we know what the external sensors picked up. The beacon was damaged in the explosion so we are having a hard time decoding the contents. We have to recreate many of the data pathways and some of the data is completely missing.”

“How long would it take to finish decoding or whatever you have to do to the beacon to make it work?” asked the Doctor.

“We estimate about 6 more hours.”

“That sounds fine. Notify me when you are done and we will continue afterwards.” Commanded Tiergen.

“Yes Sir.”

With that the Doctor and the Commander stood and left the room, followed by the busy scientists.

6 Hours Later


Commander Tiergen and Doctor Fraviuns entered the briefing room again. The others were already waiting so they sat down and waited for them to report.

“I assume you have some news for me,” said the Commander.

“The computers were working overtime reconstructing the beacon virtually so we could have a chance to retrieve the data. We could recover some of the data but the rest is either scrambled or gone. It appears the energy spike we talked about earlier was not of an internal origin. It did come from an outside source. The surge in the core caused a critical cascade effect that ruptured the dimensional barriers. This is something we did not know was possible. The energy surge was apparently generated by the use of an Anti-Grav beam. The beam generated a distortion in the Torq Drive and the, for the lack of a better term, friction caused created a massive surge of power which overloaded the drive and the result was the anomaly.”

“Please don’t worry about it happening to any of the ships we are using in-system. The reaction apparently only can occur when the drive is located in interstellar space, away from the influence of the sun. The outside edge of the Oort Cloud generally marks the limit of Sol’s influence. After that point, there are not enough of the gravitational forces to influence the Torq Drive. It is here where the drive is vulnerable. We have a theory that if the Torq ships were combined with the Posi-Grav ships then it would negate this vulnerability.”

“The Torq Drive works by transferring the mass of the ship into Torq Space, an area of grey nothingness where our laws of physics don’t seem to apply. The image, or rather the transferred after image is all that remains in Real Space. One of the original researchers called it Ghost Space because any objects within it looked like it was a ghost. If we called the drive a Ghost Drive it would not promote a very secure feeling for those aboard the vessel. Because the ship is outside Real Space, it can almost travel instantaneously.”

“Thanks for the history lecture but what about this energy spike?” interrupted the Doctor.

“As I pointed out earlier, the power surge came from a source outside the Divination. We were able to extrapolate the direction and examine the sensors in that direction. We were able to get a picture but only a glimpse before the pod was ejected.”

The scientist reached down to the table top and pushed a button. The holographic projector came to life and generated a grainy picture.

http://img78.photobucket.com/albums/v248/beldragos/ufo.jpg

“This is where the spike originated, gentlemen”

The scientist sat down.

“So what you are claiming is the Divination was destroyed by a hostile alien ship? I thought the Torq Drive moved the ship out of our universe. How can another ship destroy the Divination?” asked the Commander.

“That’s just the thing,” the scientist explained, “The ship was in Torq Space when it attacked the Divination.”

“Then who was it?” implored the Doctor.

There is no record of that ship type known to visit any of the other Earth nations that have achieved space travel. The readings were not substantial enough to get a clear reading of the vessel. The computer tried to cross reference it against all known vessel types and it was not even close to any that ever contacted our world or its nations. It wasn’t even the Shiven. The vessel is of an unknown race that the only record of contact is that grainy photo.”

“Are you sure the addition of the Posi-Grav drive to the Torq Drive will prevent it from imploding?” asked the Doctor?

“The absence of a gravitational source caused the Torq Drive to cascade. It seems to reason if we generate the gravity well of a small sun with the Posi-Grav Drive, we should be safe.”

“Good, get busy and refit the Navigator. Better be right about this because you are going to be aboard it when it launches.” announced the Doctor.

“You have plenty to do,” commanded Tiergen, “Dismissed”

The people stood up and left the room.

The Imperial Palace was draped in black. There were black tablecloths upon the tables, the red curtains were replaced with black, black fabric covers were draped over the chairs and couches, and the staff wore a black armband. All the flags in the Empire still flew at half-mast.

As Doctor Flavius entered the palace he asked an Aide to inform the Emperor he had arrived for the meeting. The Doctor then proceeded to the meeting hall and awaited the arrival of the grieving Emperor.

After about 30 minutes the Emperor entered the room. The Doctor stood until Nhur-Galladu seated himself.

“What did you find out,” Nhur-Galladu asked.

“The Divination apparently did implode. All hands were lost.” explained Flavius.

To a stranger, no emotions were shown on the face of the Emperor as he heard the news. Since Doctor Flavius has known him for years he was able to see a hint of emotion within his eyes.

“I see, what happened,” asked the Emperor in an even voice.

“The Torq Drive imploded,” said the Doctor. “The ship exited the Oort Cloud and entered interstellar space. Once it was outside the influence of the gravitational force of Sol, the drive began to experience a cascade event. The dimensional barriers collapsed and the implosion destroyed the ship instantly. There was no suffering for anyone aboard the Divination. The fusion reaction is still continuing out there. We have named the nova Bryce’s Star.

“It appears the Torq Drive is vulnerable once it leaves a strong gravitational field. There was no indication of this flaw until we actually completely left the system. The researchers at Oort Station believe if we install a Posi-Grav Drive to the Navigator then it will prevent any such event. The Posi-Grav would only be used once the ship is outside the system.

“It appears the cascade was caused by an energy surge from an external source. The data beacon was ejected before a clear reading could be attained but it appears an unknown ship was the source. We have run the info against all known ship configurations but there are not any matches.”

The Emperor stat for a moment before speaking, “I want to know who caused the cascade. I want to know who killed my nephew.”

“Yes Sir, I will have a squad of Proteus Fighters assigned to the Navigator. The team who analyzed the data will also accompany the Navigator so they can help discover if there is another energy transmission. We will find them if they are anywhere near the ship. We will get answers for you.” assured the Doctor.

Doctor Flavius rose and left the room. The Emperor sat alone thinking to himself for a while.

Two Months Later


The shuttle left Sol Station and aligned itself onto a vector with the shipyards. The autonav piloted the small craft flawlessly as it threaded its way through the traffic around the port. Worker Drones buzzed about on their endless tasks. Exo-Suits were maneuvering about the spidery forms of future vessels. The glimpse of a face behind the suit’s view port showed the occupants concentrating as they commanded the dexterous articulated service arms through their tasks.

The shuttle approached a docking port and awaited its turn. After a few minutes the craft nudged itself onto the docking ring. With a hiss the airlock opened and the passengers disembarked from the small craft. With a shudder, the craft left the docking ring so another could take its turn.

One of the passengers carrying a package walked towards a security checkpoint. The guards greeted him as he placed his forehead against the Neuro-Reader. The device recorded the neuro patterns of the man’s mind and compared them to the ones on record. The computer acknowledged his identity and allowed him to continue.

The officer continued down the hall and boarded a hover vehicle, carefully setting the package on the seat next to him. “Take me to the Navigator.” ordered the passenger. The vehicle raised a couple of centimeters and shot off down the hallway. A few minutes later the craft showed to a halt.

The officer climbed out of the hover vehicle and entered an airlock.

The Bridge of the Navigator was busy with pre-flight checks. There were engineers rechecking the double drive configuration to be sure it was within specs, the Duty Officer was making sure all the needed supplies were loaded, and some last moment repairs were being completed.

As the bridge door opened the computer announced “Captain on the Bridge”

Everyone stopped what they were doing and stood at attention. The Captain returned the salute.

“As you were.”

As the crew returned to their work, the Duty Officer approached the captain.

“Captain Foster I assume.”

“You assumed correctly. How soon before she is ready to take off?”

“About thirty minutes. The engineers are going over some last few things.”

“Good, I want to get underway. I hate sitting still. I am going to my cabin to stow away my gear. Call me when we are ready.”

“Yes Sir!”

Captain Foster exited the bridge.



30 minutes later

“Captain Foster?”

“Yes computer?”

“The bridge indicates they are ready for departure.”

“Inform them I will be there momentarily.”

Picking up the package he carried aboard, he pictured the bridge. In his mind’s eye he imagined the reception pad placed at the rear of the bridge. He studied the design imprinted upon its surface until he could picture it perfectly. Reaching into the back of his mind that was recently “opened” after his genome inoculation he grasped at the potential that lies within. A splitting headache overcame him as he felt his legs almost give out on him. He opened his eyes and saw he was on the bridge.

Phew, that takes a lot out of you, he thought, At least I am getting better at it after the past two months of training.

Walking over to his chair he sat down.

“Computer, open a channel to Control.”

“Yes Captain.”

“Command, this is Captain Foster of the Navigator requesting permission to disembark.”

“Navigator, this is Command. Permission granted. Follow Vector one-four-niner.”

“Command, this is the Navigator. Roger that.”

The Navigator began to move from its berth. It followed its course until it was a short distance away from the shipyards.

“Computer, engage the Torq Drive.”

The vessel began to fade from view as its bulk was transferred to Torq Space, leaving a faint ghostly after-image.

“Take the ship to Bryce’s Star.” Commanded the captain as he looked at the package laying upon his lap. “We have something to do first.”

The Navigator materialized out of Torq Space near Bryce’s Star. The vessel began to move into a near orbit of the sun.

On the bridge of the craft the Captain seemed to be deep in thought. Why did he pick me to deliver this? There are better captains and people better at porting than I am. I barely knew Bryce from the days at the Imperial Academy.

Turning the box over in his hands he examined the release for the cover. When the time was right he would open it.

“Disengage the Posi-Grav Drive and take us as close as you can on the Torq Drive. Take all the readings of the anomaly and send them back to the Oort Station.”

The ship faded slightly as power was diverted to the Torq Drive. The vessel sped towards the star, only stopping just out of range of the solar flares. The crew began their readings and experiments.

After 30 minutes Captain Foster ordered the crew to finish their work and to send the info to Oort Station. While they were complying, he picked up the box. Opening the container, he understood what he had to do and the reason why.

Concentrating until beads of sweat formed upon his brow, the Captain stared into the box. This is so much easier when I am porting myself. After what seemed an eternity he relaxed and set the empty box down.

“Set course to Gliese 229 and take us there”

The ship faded as the Torq drive was initiated. The image of the vessel leaped away at a great speed. Drifting within the gentle tugs of Bryce’s gravity a single red rose slowly drifted towards the new star.

One last gift from an uncle to his nephew.

The Navigator dropped out of T-Space, fading into view as its mass was shifted back into normal space.

“Captain, according to the gravitational readings there are two stars here.”

“Yes, I know. That’s why we chose this system to investigate first. The Empire wants to know if it would be a good place to establish a colony, or at least a base to expand outwards from here. Is there any inhabitable planets here?”

“There are two planets, one orbiting the primary star and another orbiting the secondary. The best chance would be the primary planet. The Brown Dwarf would not emit enough heat to make life possible on the one orbiting it.”

“Take us to Gliese Prime.”

The vessel headed for Gliese Prime, the planet circling the Red Dwarf star at the center of the system. The vessel inserted itself into orbit above the world circling the red dwarf.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/beldragos/GliesePrime.jpg

“The reading shows a gas giant with seven moons. The likelihood of any habitability upon this world is practically nil. The pressures of the atmosphere are too great. It would crush any known vessel. Readings show a semi-solid core. Most likely liquefied helium from the atmosphere. Deeper it would be crushed by gravity into a solid form of Helium.

“There seems to be some large mineral deposits upon a couple of the moons but otherwise it doesn’t look like a good prospect.”

“Drop a beacon claiming this system for the Empire. Afterwards plot a course for the brown dwarf.”

A satellite was ejected from the vessel and it jumped 40 AU to the second star.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/beldragos/gliese229b.bmp

“Captain, this world is frozen. The brown dwarf is only about 1000 degrees Celsius. There is not enough heat convection to warm the world even though it is in an orbit smaller than Mercury. Most likely in a couple thousand years the planet will fall into the brown dwarf.

“The size of the star is slightly smaller than Jupiter but its mass is more than 70 times. Because of the mass, the red dwarf at the center also orbits around a center point. That would make a good place to establish a base.”

“Send a message to Oort Station. Inform them what we have found and send all data. Plot a course to Arneb.”

“Yes Sir.”

After broadcasting their findings, the Navigator made its leap into T-Space.

The Navigator made its transition from T-Space back into real space.

“Captain, we have arrived in the Arneb system. The yellow supergiant has a system of seven planets orbiting the sun. The outer five are too cold to sustain any colonies but the second one seems to have an oxy-nitrogen atmosphere. The first planet is too near the sun to be habitable.”

“Take us closer to Arneb 2 and let’s have a better look.”

“Yes Captain.”

The Navigator engaged its drive and jumped to an orbit above the planet.

“Captain, there are unusual readings upon the planet’s surface. The surface is covered with vegetation and there are life forms detectable, most likely the local wildlife. There are no signs of any civilization but there are large areas of metal beneath that canopy.”

“Computer, analyze the readings of the planet.” Commanded Foster

“The data indicates there are metallic substructures partially buried within the terrain. The extensive coverage of the plant life indicates the substructures have been there for a long time.”

“How Long?”

“The rough estimate would be about 1000 years. There is no way to determine the exact date without sending a research team to investigate the ruins.”

“Inform Terra to send a Research Vessel and transmit all the data. Also release a marker beacon so we can claim this world.”

“Yes Captain.”

A few hors later the Research Vessel Archangel emerged from T-Space accompanied by a mining ship.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/beldragos/ResearchVessel.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/beldragos/mothership.jpg

The Archangel took position above Arneb 2. The mining vessel released a swarm of collectors and started constructing a Mobile Factory.

At the Imperial Palace


The Doctor sat down in the comfortable chair and relaxed. This time he would be able to give a good report to the Emperor.

The Emperor enters the room and the Doctor stood up. Nhur-Galladu walked around the table and took his spot at the head. The Doctor waited until he sat down before taking his own seat. “So, what news do you bring us today, good Doctor?”

“The Navigator has reached a second system. This system has a planet that is not only habitable, it has the ruins of a civilization that are over a millennium old. The ruins are completely overgrown.”

“Have they found out anything about who lived there?

“No, the Archangel has send down teams but the place is so overgrown it is very difficult to clear an area without endangering anything hidden by the jungle. The Navigator is still holding their position in system until another vessel can take their place guarding the research vessel and the mining vessels.”

“How is the refitting of the ships we bought from CAM III?”

“We have every shipyard at Gliese other than the two here in system. The bulk of the fleet was sent to Gliese and a few to the Oort shipyard for refitting. As soon as some are ready and crewed we will send them to Arneb to relieve the Navigator so they can continue to Hind.”

“Good, good, this pleases me. Hopefully we can learn something of these people and how they lived. The most important thing is what happened to them 1000 years ago.”

“Yes, I agree. I would hate to find a plague that was still lurking in those jungles. I will instruct the Archangel to instigate full decontam for everyone.

“One more thing before leaving, have you decided on that invitation we received to act as a third neutral party? It appears an island has a uranium mine or something on it and they wanted someone who wasn’t interested in it to be there in case a mediator was needed.”

“I see no harm in accepting. Pick out someone to send. Probably one of the Ta’Nar. Someone who has the appropriate skills developed.”

“Yes, Sir. I have someone in mind. I will send them accordingly to the invitation.”

--TAG--

OOC: can we join in by any chance? btw your ships are small there the size of my corvettes

OCC: Same here would it be ok to join in?

Certainly you can. The Navigator is just a fast 1000 meter exploration ship.

OOC: in that case then
IC:

1st (Class) Rear Admiral Warlock was sitting on his chair, the low hum of the engines could be heard all around. it cunforted him to hear the sound, as he looked out of the window to see the blood red of hyperspace.

knock on the door

"enter" he sead, as he did the door opened and his 2nd in command walked in. she was a young (well looked in her 20s but she was more like 120 years old) female Vampiric named Rachel, with long black hair and around 5f 4", pale skin with blue eyes. she was rather atrative woman, he face was expresstionless when she spoke and saluted.
"sir, we detected a ship in real space orbiting Arneb 2" she sead softly
"is that the place were IPX found a Large poll of Hyper X a few weeks ago" Warlock asked
"the same system but i dont think it was that planet, i didnt cheak the records we're only a few moments away" she replyed
"vary well when we exit have the Ravan and the Screamer stay near us" the Admiral ordered "and have Commander Drix and his marines ready to go to the surface, scan the area unless i order it they are to avoid any contact with anyone elce"
"yes sir" they both saluted and she walked out, warlock sat waiting for them to exit hyperspace.

Arneb system

near Arneb 2 a hyperspace jump point opened, and the Sol and the 2 escorting lifeless corvettes followed. the blue jump point closed behind them as they left, as soon as the Sol exited a dropship left the ship and headed to the planet landing 3 Klicks from the Ruins. the ships gun ports were open as standard of first conflit, a guester of Strength and to show they came open handed. as well as that 7 Dagger class fighters left the sol and started patroling the area, with the 7 Firewings Mk VIII patroling around the planet. the CorpSacians ships didnt hail the Balrogga ships but stayed at a desteance of 10Kms from them at all times, watching the corvettes followed suit. the Sol was a 1421.3 meters long Echo Class Battle cruiser, with the Corvettes 444.25 meters long Lifeless Classes.

Planetside Commander Drix and his platoon got out of the dropship, he looked round the jungle.
"ok team this is a simple mission, you've all been informed of it remmber DO NOT shot at anything and try not to make any contact" Drix sead "my squad and 2nd squad will head east, 3rd and 4th head North East keep in radio contact, if anyone gets into trubble fire a Flare and we will get to you ASAP, i dont care what the Admiral says if you feel threatened shot first and then ask questions, MOVE OUT"
"YES SIR" the men and weman shouted, they all were wearing combat armor, M22's pulse assult rifles and in each squad (of 10) there was 2 Shoulder Mounted Plasma Cannon.
they all moved off towards the ruins to scout the area, moveing scilently and trying to avoid being detected.

On the sol Warlock was sitting on the bridge, he wasnt going to contact the ships out there, hell for all he knew they could be allies of the falling shivan Imperiam and he didnt want to risk it. he looked round the bridge and smiled his crew were Vets of the Shivan war in the sol II system and he knew they could handly themselves, but Command drix was a different matter. Drix was known for being hot headed and shoting first and asking questions later.
what will Drix do? i dont like this....maby..maby im being paranoid but still Warlock sat thinking.
"sir you shouldnt think like that" Rachel sead smileing
"never knew you were a telepath?" Warlock replyed
"not much you do know about me" she smiled back as she spoke "sir the 8th Battle group is only an hour away and Captain Mavric says he will come as soon as you send word"
"vary well" warlock replyed

OOC:
Echo Class (http://s6.invisionfree.com/International_Mall/index.php?showtopic=746)
Lifeless and fighters (http://s6.invisionfree.com/International_Mall/index.php?showtopic=694)

We are happy to inform you that we have 230 of your crew Members on board a Battleship.
We found the LifePods Drifting in space.
But we were called Away. And could not return until now.
Your Men and Women were treated with the utmost respect.
With your Premission.
The Galaxy Class StarShip Federation Pride Will Warp Into your System and devlior them.
Should we wait in case they want a welcoming creimonay?

We are happy to inform you that we have 230 of your crew Members on board a Battleship.
We found the LifePods Drifting in space.
But we were called Away. And could not return until now.
Your Men and Women were treated with the utmost respect.
With your Premission.
The Galaxy Class StarShip Federation Pride Will Warp Into your System and devlior them.
Should we wait in case they want a welcoming creimonay?


OOC: ECF, I assume you are talking to CorpSac. I am at work now. I will post when I get home

OOC: ECF, I assume you are talking to CorpSac. I am at work now. I will post when I get home

OOC: dont see how or why he would be talking to me i've not lost a ship (yet) so i think he was talking to you tho i dont see how anyone could have lived after what happened i dont think they would have had time to get to a life boat but i might be wrong so im not saying a word, anyway im off to bed (the suns up ahhh) so i will reply when i awake (if you have made a reply by then)

OCC:I'm sorry but I was talking to you, Just wanted add a bit of happyness to the losss

OOC: The Ta’Nar are True Psi. They are based off the GURPS Psionics RPG book. Not Star Trek!!!


IC:

Captain Foster was just starting to eat his lunch when the interruption came over the comm.

“Captain!”

Foster jumped, spilling his drink onto his dinner. “Damn it! What’s going on?” he growled as he wiped the soda off his uniform.

“We have multiple incoming.”

“What? Where did they come from?”

“They came out of the Blue.”

“The what?”

"The Blue. The three ships came out of the Blue.”

Standing up and walking over to a screen on the wall the captain addressed the computer. “OK, show me.”

The screen shows the emergence of the Sol and her two escorts from hyperspace and the rift closing behind them.

“Holy Shit! Computer, initiate scans and listen for any communication. Contact one of the Ta’Nar and have them meet me on the bridge in two minutes.”

Minutes later the Captain hurried onto the bridge. “Computer, report status.”

"The unknown vessels have sent a shuttle craft down to the planet. They are running with all gun ports wide open. Should I get a target resolution?”

“Wait a moment. Continue to scan all three ships.” Turning to a woman who just entered the bridge, “What can you read over there?”

The woman closed her eyes and concentrated. Using her mind she tried to feel the life forms on the other ships. “They are inquisitive. They want to know what we are doing here as much as we are wondering about them. There are strange minds over there. I hesitate to do a direct contact with one but I do know they are weary of conflict.”

“Captain,” interrupted the computer, “scans read the gun ports are open but I detect no power to the weapons.”

“On Terra there was an old custom of sea captains to display their guns when they first met. It is to show there are not any hidden weapons. The hand shake developed the same way. I bet if we do the same we would be contacted shortly. I certainly hope we don’t have to shoot it out. There are too many civilians here.

“Open forward Launch Tubes. Let’s show them what we have but don’t power anything up. Be prepared to shift to T-Space at a moments notice.”

“Captain, I have received a communications from Space-Minus. The Domain and her escorts should arrive in about 15 minutes.”

“Inform them to keep all but two vessels held out of the system. I don’t want the appearance of too many vessels to spook them.”

“Yes Sir.”



OOC: I don’t know if you can detect T-Space or Space-Minus transmissions. Here is the technical data. (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=344345) I don't know anything about Hyperspace so your other ships are unknown to me.

OOC: no IC i have no idea what T-space or Space-Minus transmissions are, oh and my Telepaths are...er...strong to say the lest. my Hyperspace can be found on the links i gave (just look around my storefront)

IC:

"sir they opened there forwards tubes" the Tac officer reported, tapping away on the V-deck. "there weapons are not hot tho"
"mmm...interesting vary well ope.." Warlock was interupted by Rachel
"ahh..." she sead softly closing her eyes
"what is it Rachel?" Warlock asked in a concered voice
"theres a Psi over there...probed me only light but still..." she looked concerned "i have no idea what they might have got"
"what P level are you?" warlock asked
"im a P6, im not that strong, i wont beable to scan who ever it was" she sead "but we do have a P12 here"
"really?" he raised his eyebrow, he had forgotten to cheak the latest crew bios "meh vary well...get them to the bridge" he repled to Rachel.
after about 5 minutes a slim male Corpsacian walked in, his face was pale he looked around 18. "you asked for me Captain" he sead in a voice that didnt fit the face, it was more twisted then you would think, he sead that as he saluted. his rank was Comander and Warlock new he was part of the Milltary intel.
"yes, it seems like they have some powerful Psi over on that ship, they did a light scan of my second in command, we're not shore what they might have stumbled on but i want..." he was cut off by the telepath
"...me to do a light scan of the person who scan her, vary well" he sead, he walked to the front of the ship and closed his eyes. then he opened them vary fast, his eyes were a blood red and looked as tho his eyes had traped a small bit of hyperspace in them. who ever was on the reciveing end of this would have a rather bad head ach if they didnt expect it.

Planetside Drix and his squad was nearing the ruins, the sun was going down so he contacted the other squads and told them to go to him. his squad had set up camp, he got 1 squad to patrol the area eavry 3 hours and another squad to be on look out. each 3 hours they would change with another squad, with the Plasma cannons mounted on tripods at Stratgic places. all of them had order to shoot anything that moved.
"sir why the hell we down here?" one of the marines asked
"IPX found a rich sorce of Hyper X in this system and you know about the shortage we're nearing in" drix sead, it was comman news with in the Empire about the H-X shortage.
"so what we're here to sacure it?" the marine replyed
"we're here to make shore they dont get it, and also find out what them ruins are" drix sead, the camp fire was burning, he lit up a cigarette. one of the marines was rolling a joint, with others doing the same. the empire never did have much on drug laws but in the milltary the only drug people were allowed was dope and Performance inhanceing drugs. the night went on has the patrols went out and back not really finding anything, hell not like they expected to.

OOC: She had up her passive shields so he will get in for a glimpse before she activates her Mindsheild. You should detect some general info but nothing vital.

The Empire has no knowledge of the existance of hyperspace.




IC:

The Captain waited to see what the alien vessel would do after opening the forward launch tubes. Chrysta waited behind him as they watched the screen with the image of the three ships.

“Computer, what is happening down on the planet?”

“The shuttle craft set down about 3 K from the ruins. The jungle is thick there so it might take a day or so for them to chop their way through it before they reach the ruins and the encampment.”

“Contact the Archangel and warn the archeologists they will need to be ready to withdraw back to the Archangel. Also contact the Domain through the Space-Minus transmitter. Inform them I need the Domain and one other ship to take position slightly behind me and to either side. Open the gun ports but do not power up weapons. Stay deep in T-Space so they are not visible and wait for my instructions. Have the rest of the escort take up position out of range.”

“Message is sent. Captain, the Archangel reports the scientist are refusing to leave. They apparently value their discoveries more than their lives.”

“Damn civilians. Sometimes I think they would rather …”

“Uuuhh…” moaned Chrysta. Her knees seemed to go weak for a moment as she closed her eyes. Clenching her jaw, she concentrated. After a few seconds, she stood straight, opened her eyes revealing pitch black orbs. In an inhuman voice she commanded “GET OUT OF MY HEAD!” Her mind snapped shut as tight and impermeable as a wall made of duralloy.

Jumping to his feet, Foster helped Chrysta sit down. “Are you all right? What happened?”

“It seems they have their telepaths too, and a strong one at that. He would have to be in order to get by my passive shield so quickly without alerting me. He got in for a second or two but I managed to shut him out. I don't know if he got any thing while he was in there. At least he will have a headache like mine too. Better warn the crew to put up their active Mindshields.”

“Don’t attempt anything else except in response to further probes. Computer, inform the crew to go active with their Mindshields.”

“Yes Captain.”

“This seems to be getting more interesting every minute.”

OOC: i like your telepath, oh btw just to tell you for OOC reasons (but you wont know this in IC unless you asked lol) my people (well the major part of my race, teh CorpSacians and Vampires) have no sence of good or Evil is, in there eyes good means your to weak to do whats needed to win a war and Evil well they think thats just a stupid idea that some good for nothing thought up cos he had nothing to do.

IC:
"arrhhh" the Intel kid sead "interesting" he sead once more with him hand on his head, his eyes had turned back to the his natrul colour.
"well?" Warlock asked
"nothing much, there smart and she was rather powerful and vary well trained" he sead with rather alot of interest
"did you find out anything?" warlock asked this time makeing it sound more like an order
"only general stuff nothing major they didnt get anything from Rachel eaither" he replyed "now if you would exuse me Admiral i must go to the Med Center to find out if that Psi did any damage" he saluted, the Admiral saluted back and nodded.
"vary well..contact the Corlon and tell them to enter when the wish and also get the Tigerland here" the admiral order.
"aye Admiral" the comm officer replyed
the crew seemed at ease nothing major was happening and the place was quite, the admiral went back to his room. "Captain has the bridge" he sead as he left, "captain has the bridge aye sir" rachel repeated added the aye sir on.

a jump point opened and out poped a new ship the DESC Corlon a new ship in the fleet, built as an explorer rather then a milltary ship with a full core of Diplomats.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v378/corpsac/Corlon.gif
Corlon

a Channal was opened to the Navigator, tho the only problem was that the Balrogga might not understand what was being sead.
"i am Bishop Athens Diplomatic core of the Dark Empire, along with Technomagi High Priest Gorlen and Technomagi Lord Ravec, we wish to invite you to the Corlon for Diplomatic talks as this is a First contact"
as well as the message sent an Invid sent the same message to the captain tho not knowing it would get though.

OOC: Invids are hiveminded and there telopathic abilitys are not ranked by P level (its to high) but there passive creatures

IC:

Planetside the sky was lit up by the stars, most of the troops had got to sleep and the 2 squads still on patrol or look out would be coming back shortly. Drix wondered what was going on up there, this jungle was think and was hard to get though but thanks to the shimmer Blades it was made alot easyer. he hated sneaking around but with the Shivan war basicly over but the rumers of Neo Mekanta forming the allaince, drix might be in a war just like the old AI war and he didnt like that idea not one bit.
he tryed to get a few more moments of sleep when the sky light up, a bright white flare was sent up in the air.
"shit, WAKE UP YOU PANCYS" he shouted, the marines around him were getting up fast as gun shots were heard. "what the fu** is happening" he asked as they all got up, "2nd SQUAD STAY HERE 3RD YOUR WITH US" he shouted as the squad that was doing the looks out started to move with Drix and the 1st squad.
they started ruuning to where the gun shots could be heard and where the flare had come up from. they ran faster and faster, cutting though the jungle as they got near to 4th squad they saw what they were attacking. big Gurrila type cratures, thye were around 7Ft tall, extreamly built and didnt look to friendly. one of the things punched a marine who flew 9ft into the air and landed about 12ft away from where she was standing befor, she didnt get up. the others opened fire there was about 6 of the gurrila type creatures, and it seemed to take an enitre clip to take just one down.
"GRAP THAT MARINE" someone shouted
"what the hell are they" someone elce shouted as he threw a plasma grenade at one blowing off its arm, it seemed to make it even more pissed of and it jumped at the marine and bite his head off with alarge about of upper torso. "holy shit" someone shouted, the battle lasted about half an hour, with a total of 4 killed and 3 wounded and 2 missing. it had taken 30 marines to take down just 6 of the things and that was not a good number.
when they got back to camp they were all on guard, they didnt like that the first bit of natrul life the found on this god forsaken planet.
"GET ME THE FU**ING RADIO" Drix shouted, one of the marines ran over to him with the radio.
"this is 1st platoon to command, we've been attack by natral life i have 3 WIA 4 KIA and 2 MIA, i request medi EVAC for the injured and dead and the full company to come down" he sead
"this is the sol your Medi Evac is on route, the rest of the company will be down there in 45 minutes" it blurted back at him
what ever them things were he was going to find the where they took his men and get them back, a marine never left a marine behind.

OOC: I would like to help your men but unfortunately I don’t know about them and the archeologists are only interested in what they can dig up. They rely upon electric and sonic fencing to keep the wildlife at bay. BTW here is a scanned copy of Chrysta’s character sheet. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/beldragos/chrystacrystal.jpg



IC:

Foster was watching Chrysta as she shook off the headache caused by the CorpSac’s scan.

“How strong was he?”

“Nearly my equal but I was able to force him out. He may be stronger in other Telepathy skills but apparently I have a better Mindshield than he has Probe. It also might have been the distance.”

“Captain, we have an incoming transmission.”

“Let’s hear it.”

An alien voice filled the bridge.

"j bn Cjtipq Athens Ejqmpnahjd dpsf pg hif Ebsl Fnqjsf, bmpoh xjui Ufdiopnbhj Ijhi Qsjftu Gorlen boe Ufdiopnbhj Mpse Ravec, xf xjti up jowjuf zpv up uif Corlon gps Ejqmpnbujd ubmlt bt uijt jt b Gjstu dpoubdu"

“What language was that? Do we have a translation?”

“I can send a thought. Psi is universal.”

“Are you sure you are up to it?”

“I had tougher bruising of my pride in training. I was foolish and got caught off guard. It won’t happen again.”

Chrysta closed her eyes and carefully sent a message…

OOC: who you sending the Psi message to? be warned sending one to the Invids would be er....well lets say befor you could get a message in your mind would be bombarded with millions of voices and could drive you insane (you just got to love Hive minds)

OOC: Sorry I wasn't clear. I was sending a message to you. I figured I would let you create the message that I didn't understand.

BTW if you "back up" each letter, other than proper names, of the message we recieved it will be the origional (B=A, C=B, ect...)

Bump for CorpSac to post

OOC: ok bear with me on this post, im dosed up to the eye balls on coffee and still half asleep. the only problem is i dont know what your message is

IC:
Bishop sat down just as the Psi message hit him, he sat down quickly just getting to his chair. Bishop was just over 80 years old and this was his last mission but he was glade of it but telepathic messages never agreed with him.
"bishop whats wrong?" his invid aid asked, the voice was computerised
"nothing a Psi message...Kilcari can you do me a favor?" Bishop asked
"depends" Kilcari replyed (the invid)
"send who ever that Psi on that ship is the basics of our language at lest that way she can modirate for us" Bishop sead looking down with his hand on his forehead.
Kilcari closed his eyes and concetrated, he had to be careful not to overload her mind with infomation and to keep the rest of the hive from looking at her mind (he was shore a few million voices talking at once would annoy her).

"interesting" he sead "mind shield" he sat there for a few seconds taping it with his mind then 2 more minds apeared and started taping the mind shield the 2 more until in total 10 more minds started taping at the shield. he was useing local Invids to help to get her atention. as soon as he did the others went (well he did threaten to turn there minds into mush or at the vary lest cut there connetion to the hive off), and he delivered the infomation to Chrysta so she knew the basics of the CorpSacian tounge.

Planetside the rest Company had landed 3 full platoons got out of the dropships. the camp now was becoming more defended, after 12 hours a small basic tent base was built and an area where the trees had been blown down for dropships, so the marines didnt need to Repel from the dropships. Drix was in command and he was happy now he had more troops but in his mind not anough, he wanted his regiment here or maby a full divison.
he sent a squad to the archeologists hopefully it would be a warm welcome but they were ordered to fly about for a while befor landing as talks had not started.
another platoon was sent on patrol they were to stick together and not split up, they were all fully briefed on the ape things as well but still. the rest were defending the base, montion sensors had been set up and the sentrie guns in place.

Arneb 2

An archeologist was examining a plaque affixed to a wall in what appeared to be a meeting hall or some other public forum. The marking upon the decoration were unrecognizable to him but the entity who was riding him recognized the letters. Planting the concepts within the mind of the host, it was able to steer the thought and conceptualizations of the professor. "At last, we have found a clue.” The host became excited with his discovery and made a data recording of the plaque.


The Navigator

Chrysta felt a presence upon the back of her mind. At first it was a little tickle, then two, and after a few minutes it became 10. Somebody was trying to get her attention.

She rolled over and got out of bed. Donning a robe, she sat at her desk and concentrated upon the source of the disturbance. Erecting a second more powerful shield, she traced the source of the signal. It led to the Corlon. Interested, she established contact with the signal Kilcari was sending. Gently a stream of information began to flow into her. She recognized it as basic language syntax. Carefully she stored it in her mind. After the transfer was completed, she sent a “thank you” to Kilcari.

Switching on her terminal, she typed in a request with the AI to initiate a Class Three Data transfer. Concentrating upon the terminal she installed a copy of the CorpSacian language basics. The AI entered it into its Translation subroutines.

Reaching out with her mind, she found the captain upon the bridge. “Captain, I have just received a broadcast from one of the alien vessels. It was the basis for translating their language. I just finished giving it to the AI.”

“Computer, run the transmission from the Corlon.”

“Yes Sir.”

“"j bn Cjtipq Athens Ejqmpnahjd dpsf pg hif Ebsl Fnqjsf, bmpoh xjui Ufdiopnbhj Ijhi Qsjftu Gorlen boe Ufdiopnbhj Mpse Ravec, xf xjti up jowjuf zpv up uif Corlon gps Ejqmpnbujd ubmlt bt uijt jt b Gjstu dpoubdu"

“Now run it through the new language filters Chrysta installed a few minutes ago.”

"I am Bishop Athens Diplomatic core of the Dark Empire, along with Technomagi High Priest Gorlen and Technomagi Lord Ravec, we wish to invite you to the Corlon for Diplomatic talks as this is a First contact"

“That is much better. Computer, send this message, and be sure to run it through the filters. This is Captian Foster of the Imperial Exploration Vessel Navigator. We will accept your invitation to a Diplomatic meeting. We will meet you on the Corlon at the appointed time.

“Computer, relay a copy of the filters and the transmissions to the Archangel.”

“Yes Sir.”



The Archangel

The data stream from the planet arrived and was recorded within the core of the AI. A copy of it was marked priority and deposited within the queue for the scheduled Space-Minus transmission. The communications from the Navigator was also received and placed within the queue. The data and message was transferred to Gliese moments later.


Gliese System

Amid the massive shipyards resided a huge base situated in the exact center of the system. The presence of the Brown Dwarf threw off the orbital mechanics of the red star so it actually orbited the massive Fortress. The ships purchased from Cam III were being updated and refitted with Imperial technology. The new drives were being constructed and placed within the vessels. The electronics were being removed and the AI was being installed to run the ships without a crew if necessary.

The Transmission from the Arneb station arrived and was relayed back to Terra. The language filters were forwarded to the shipyards to be installed into the AI.



Sol System

The Space-Minus transmitter beneath the Imperial Palace received the transmission. Nhur-Galladu sat at the console listening to the words of Captain Foster and Bishop Athens. "This will be a good first step at establishing communication between the other space races. Hopefully they might help in finding out home."

He looked at the data from the Archeologist and felt a glimmer of true hope. The relief depicted the arrival of the colonists from another star. "Using this it should not be hard to figure out where it is. At the very least, it will yield a direction."



Arneb 2

One of the Xeno-bioligists entered the structure used as the base of the dig. “Anthony, something seems to be stirring the Gargants. They seem to be restless to the west of the ruins. I don’t know if the electric fencing or the ultrasonic deterrents could keep them out of the area.”

“They better because we have a lot of work to do. The Archangel warned us we might have to pull out at a moments notice. Preposterous! There are too many unknowns here to leave it behind. Still, those beasts are huge. Better tell everyone to keep close and to travel in groups. Issue stun pistols to everyone.”



The Navigator

Captain Foster and Chrysta boarded a shuttle. The shuttlecraft left the Navigator and approached the Corlon.

“Corlon, this is the diplomatic envoy requesting permission to dock.”

DESC Corlon
"this is the Corlon you are clear to dock" a female voice came over the comm "plase land in bay 4" as the shuttle aproched the docking bay, bay 4 was lit up and was easy to find. as soon as they landed the ship was scaned (standard) for any harmful Bactira or Virus's as soon as that was completed they were given permission to exit the shuttle.
outside the shuttle were 2 Path finder Robots both at the time were argueing about something, but as soon as they saw the Balroggaians the shuted up and saluted.
"sir, Mam if you follow us please to the confence room" one of them sead, both of them carrying standard M22's. you wouldnt think it them being robots as they acted so...human (since all Robots have personailtys and are completely sentiant) as they walked to the confence room the 2 Path finders were still argueing about something or other. Foster and Chrysta both noticed the Graverty on the ship was lighter then that on the Navagator, but as soon as they entered teh confence room it seemed to be normal.
the 2 path finders took postions by the door, looking round and still argueing Chrysta heard something about a girl in the argument and laughed.
"ahhh i take it your Captain Foster" Bishop sead in CorpSacian, Chrysta translated for Foster (well unless your carrying a translater) "i am Ambasidor Bishop and this" he pointed at a rather old looking man "is Technomagi High Priest Gorlen" he was on Bishops right "and this is Technomagi Lord Ravec" who was on his left.
the table was rather long and could fit at lest 12 people on it, each seat had a holo screen and a V term for people who had V triods. the room was rather light tho the table was black. bishop was around 5ft 6", long white hair, well built and was colored. he sat down beaming at Foster and Chrysta, still the path finders behind them argued and with out warning one of them punched the other rather hard in the face smashing the front part of it, Bishop was not impressed.
"god dam it Drag"
"sorry Sir"
"ahh take him to the Repair center" bishop sead "the path finders are new on the ship and rather annoying sometimes"

in the blackness of space 2 jump point formed and 2 Tigerclaw Destroyers apeared, as soon as the exited they sent down dropships full of troops and surpply and fighter. as the dropships hit the ground a total of 2040 personal were on the ground.
troop list:
1660 Marines
160 Path finders
220 Clash's
70 Valkyries

Major Hamands was in command now, the fighters were all Valkyries and the base was well sacured. the Clash's were sent out on patrols they were best suited to kill the Ape like things as well as the path finders but at the moment they were left at base.
Drix and his company had a few days off befor they had any missions to do and drix was happy. the small base was turning into alot larger and something told him that the Hyper X deposits were on the planet, as the base seemed more like an outpost now. the Landing strips was turning into a full blown air base, the Camp was turning into a base and it didnt seem to stop. he knew sooner or later the mineing teams would get here and thats what worried him, the marines would most likely be told to protect them and he hated that job mainly cos it was boring.

OOC: Sorry it took so long to reply. Real Life keeps intruding into my fantasy worlds. I hate it when that happens.



Arneb 2

Dr Thomas worked his way through the ruins being careful not to fall. The abandoned city was crumbling after being assaulted by the jungle and the climate for over a millennium. As hard as the stone and metal of the ruins were, the foes were more relentless. There were many deadfalls and areas where you could slip and hurt yourself. This far west of the main encampment, it might take days for anyone to find you if you were seriously hurt. Normally nobody came out this far except for the repair teams who maintained the sonic screens and electric fence that was supposed to keep out the native wildlife.

“Why did I come out so far? There are discoveries to find right where we are camped. There is no reason to risk a sprained ankle out here.

Hidden in the back of his mine where even he didn’t know about, the Entity urged him on.

“You must find where they went. You must find something out about them. You must find something we can use. You must do this for the Empire. You will be rich. You will be famous.”

“I have to hurry and find something to take back so I will get my name in the journals.” He thought to himself. “It is starting to get dark so I need to hurry.”

The archaeologist was startled by a large bird taking flight at his feet. The bird shot into the air. The doctor jumped to the side in an attempt to evade the creature. He felt his feet slide on the crumbling stone. The next thing he knew he was falling. Dr. Thomas felt himself bounce off sharp rocks a few time before he came to a rest at the bottom of a ravine. Dazed, he lay there trying to regain his senses. After a few minutes he rolled over and sat up, head spinning. He ached all over, especially his ribs and his left leg. Looking around he located his communicator, lying smashed upon the rocks nearby.

“Just great, I have no way to call base and get help. There is nothing for me to do but trying to crawl back.”

Suddenly he could smell a musky odor. There were heavy footsteps behind him accompanied with grunting. The doctor turned just in time to see a huge hairy shape with huge teeth swinging a club at his head and then everything went dark….



DESC Corlon

Captain Foster and Chrysta looked around at the alien species they just met. The two robots left, apparently headed for someplace called the Repair Center.

Addressing the three dignitaries, he cleared his voice and began to speak, Chrysta translating his words into their language.

“Greetings from the Balrogga Empire. I am, as you correctly guessed, Captain Alan Foster of the Exploratory Vessel The Navigator. The Lady to my right is Chrysta Lynx. Apparently you know of her abilities already. Apparently we have some things that need to be discussed. For starters, why are you sending so many troops down to Arneb 2?”



T-Space

The Domain and The T’Alven sit deep within T-Space. The crew awaits word from the Ta’Nar aboard the DESC Corlon. The Commander of The Domain paces the bridge impatiently. An Aide asks, “Why don’t you go in? You outrank a simple captain. Why don’t you just take control of the situation?”

Commander Donner turned and backhanded the Aide. He stumbled backwards and over the low safety railing onto the floor. He lay there wiping blood from his lip with a shocked look upon his face.

“Don’t ever try to tell me what to do. If you ever do, you will find yourself floating in space without the benefit of a ship to keep your insides from being squeezed out of your every orifice.

“And for your information, the “simple captain”, as you called him, is a Ta’Nar. It doesn’t matter that I have been promoted as the Commander of the entire Arneb System. The lowest of the Ta’Nar would outrank even the Emperor himself, if he wasn’t already the Head of the Ta’Nar. So don’t go trying to dictate the command structure to me unless you know your pie hole from the shit you have between your ears. Now get out of my sight before I space you myself!”

With a look of terror, the aide scrambled out of the Commanders sight and off the bridge.

“Come on Foster,” muttered Commander Donner, “Let us know what is happening down there.” The Domain and The T’Alven waited silently.

"corporate Reasons, yes the Mega Corporations do have alot of power within the empire but its better then they haveing there own Private armies well larger ones anyway, see that planet below contains a rare and sort after Resorce in our empire we call it Hyper X the real name for it is Quantium 40, something that can not be man made" he looked down "lets say the empire at the moment is doing all it can to get its hands on more surpply, you were lucky if the Corporations had there way the Planet eater would have come and completely striped this planet of all resorces but well the emperor likes to meet knew people. the Corporations are at this moment biding for who will control the Pocket but until then the marines and the navy have to sacure the Site" he saw the blank looks on both his guest faces "ahhh Quantium 40 i take it youve never come across it well its what powers of Hyperspace drives and gates, it produces so much energy that it ripes open a portal into a new dimention or hyperspace, this hyperspace does not follow the laws as our has, for instance space, time, Length and width have no meaning so we can and the deeper you go the faster you go if you understand what i mean, its also vary dangerus if in the wrong hands if you understand what i mean"

OOC: i will make a better post later RL getting in the way once more (dam RL)

DESC Corlon


“So, you are sending all those troops down there for some mineral? From our point of view it looks like an invasion, especially since there are no weapons down there larger than small personal arms. They are mainly for defense from the native fauna.” The Entity within the Captain established a contact with the one residing in Chrysta. “Are they telling the truth?”

“It seems so. There is something they are not telling us yet. I don’t know what it is but I can sense it.”

“Keep looking for it but don’t use Chrysta’s talents. Use your own so they will have a harder time detecting what you are doing. We don’t know how powerful their Psi are.”

The Captain sat up in his chair, “Please don’t take offence at what I am saying, I am just concerned for the safety of not only my research team planetside, but also for the colonist that are going to arrive soon. I don’t want to place them into any hostile situations.”

Foster picked up the glass at his elbow and took a drink. “Hmm… Not bad. I think you might be able to trade this with the Empire. Nice body and flavor.’

“Sorry about changing the subject. That was tasty. Let’s see, where were we? Oh, yes. The troops. Where is this mineral deposit in relation to the Ruins? We might work something out. We can share the planet. We are not interested in this Quantum 40. We don’t use this “Hyperspace” you were talking about. We use something called T-Space. It is hard to describe without going deeply into Quantum Physics.”


Arneb 2

The Entity could tell his host was being carried but he could not tell where. It concentrated and ran a bioelectric surge through the unconscious form of the Archeologist. The results of the surge told him his host had sprained his ankle in the fall and the clubbing by the creature only caused minor damage but he was bleeding from a head wound. Channeling some of his energy he caused the wound to close. “There, that will keep him from loosing too much blood.”

The body of the scientist was dropped to the ground. The Entity could hear other captives. He had to wait to see what would develop.



Base Camp


A warning screen was flashing on the computer in the main office of the expedition. Anthony entered the room and noticed the monitor. He hurriedly sat down and checked out the warnings. After a moment he picked up a communicator.

“Security, This is Anthony in the main office. It seems we have a faulty Sonic Emitter west of the encampment. Sent out a repair team to see what the problem is.”




T-Space

Three ships pulled up alongside the Domain.

“This is the Imperial Colonyship The Luckstone with her two Freighter escorts. What is happening below?”

“It seems there are First Contact talks being held. You will have to pull back to there the rest of the fleet is waiting. I don’t want you caught in the middle if shooting starts.”

“Aye Sir, we will await word from you. I hope things work out because my passengers seem to be getting antsy.”

"ahh Spider Blood wiskey, yes a vary nice Item within our empire, tho you should be careful with it meny Races in the universe have classed it as a Drug rather strong stuff and does some strange effects to Telepaths" he sead "it was all i had, now back to the reason of troops well the 2 regiments are there to clear out an area for the mineing and to get our people back, see we leave no one behind EVER and we lost a few people down on the planet, we wouldnt have sent the Platton down ot the planet as normaly we bombard the area but we noticed you had people down there...we're not about to nuke them now are we" he chuckled lightly "see this miniral is worth more then all the gold on Terra and thats just a handful of the stuff, Corporations fight over this stuff trust me you would rather us here rather then the Corporations if they were here you would be in a middile of a war zone right now. the marines wont interfere with your people, theres a squad of Path finders watching over your camp just to make shore they are safe but if you dont trust them what i can understand we will call them back." there was a knock on the door and a Stigmata Psi walked in, he looked round then walked over to Bishop and wispered something into his ear.
"oh..." Bishop sead "vary well thank you" he sent eh agent away "well it seems like somethings come up, are you aware of anyone from your Party being taken Captive?" he asked


Airbase Corlon, Arneb 2

"aahhh Drix long time no see" major Hamond sead "well so good news and bad, a group of Path finders found our people, bad news is that they belive the things have another person from the Balroggaian camp, we're not shore if there alive but until the Balroggaian know we're ordered to keep an eye on them"
"and my mission is?" Drix asked
"your to move in as soon as we get the word, the mineing teams will be here in 48 hours and we dont have much time" Hamond sead
"vary well sir"
"oh one more thing your to take 5 pathfinders with you"
"sir?"
"orders are orders"
"yes sir"
Drix walked out and looked round, the sun was comeing up and he didnt like dawn attacks.

Arneb 2

The repair team worked their way through the ruins following the guidance of a hand held locator. The device pointed them to where the sonic emitter was installed. As they rounded a corner of the ruins, they found the emitter, smashed to pieces by a tree. After examining the fallen giant, they made a call back to base.

“Repair team calling base, come in.”

“Anthony here, what did you find?”

“The emitter is totaled. It was hit by a tree, and get this. The tree was chopped down.”

“It was what??”

“Chopped down Sir! It wasn’t a clean cut. It was literally chopped down as if a crude axe was used.”

Another of the repairmen came running up.

“I found this over by the rocks!”

“Sir, one of my men found a smashed communicator. Its registration number is 4251-ADR.”

After punching in the code into the desk terminal a name flashed upon the screen.

“Dammit, I thought I told the scientist to stay near camp. It appears Dr Thomas might be out there somewhere. Have a look around for him.”

“My man also found Gargant tracks. It appears the doctor was carried off.”

“Dammit! Repair that emitter and get back here. I’ll call for some troops from the Archangel or the Navigator.”



DESC Corlon

"Oh..." Bishop said "vary well thank you" he sent the agent away "well it seems like something’s come up, are you aware of anyone from your Party being taken Captive?" he asked

“What are you talking about?”

The communicator at his belt beeped. Foster looked at the readout.

“Excuse me for a moment.”

The Captain talked on the communicator for a few seconds.

“What…they said what…I thought I told them to stay…send some help…keep me posted.”

Foster turned to Bishop.

“It seems like you are right. What do you propose?”



Arneb 2

Dr Thomas started stirring. Pain flashed through his head. Across the cave from him were two wounded alien soldiers.

In the back of his mind the Entity stirred.

“Dammit, I wish I was a Telepath instead of an Aurator. I could see who these two are.”

Through a fissure in the cave wall he could see numerous Gargants. They seemed to be “speaking” in grunts and other guttural sounds.


Archangel


An atmospheric shuttle left the Archangel. The security crew within the passenger compartment was going through their gear as the craft entered the atmosphere. The winds screamed outside the ship as a corona appeared. The pilot throttled the engines and dove into the clouds. Above the ruins he hit the retro-thrusters and slowed the craft. It settled upon the landing pad next to three others. The security team exited the ship.

DESC Corlon

"well normaly the Marines and Boomers would storm the things camp and get our people out, but with one of your people down there i guess it will have to be tactical" Bishop sead "tho im not the one to answer that qustion". he leaned over to the V-Computer infront of him and tap on a few keys. the Holo image of Major Hamond apeared in the middile of the table, he seemed to be half way though dinner.
"oh Sir" he sead Standing up rather fast "i wasnt expecting a Comm with you for a few hours" he saluted
"Major this is Captain Foster and Chrysta of the Balrogga Empire" Bishop sead to the holo image
"Sir, Mam" he saluted them both "i take it this is due to the situation down here?"
"yes, what are you planning to do?" Bishop asked
"well sir, Standard Text Book Assualt Sargent Drix (OOC:i think thats what i ranked him lol) is leading the assualt" Hamond replyed "but with the Balroggaian down there its made things abit more complex im guessing you want a joint tactical assualt"
"Well Captain what do you want?" Bishop asked

Arneb 2

"Cap, they got another" someone sead in the shadows
"is he one of ours?" someone elce sead, the voice was female.
"Hay you? what Detachment you with?" the first voice shouted to Dr Thomas, he didnt reply infact looked blank.
"hes not CorpSacian or Vampire eh...must be a Balroggaian" the captain stood up and walked over to Dr Thomas giveing him a pouch full of water, "here" she sead as she handed it to him.
a Gargant walked into the cell, grunting at the captain. it walked over to the Private standing in the corner then with no warning the Private Punched him hard in the face, the captain jump behind him and did a flying kick into the back of its head. one of its massive hands swang round and hit the Private hard across the face who droped like a sack of patatos. the captain pulled out a small Plasma Blade and stabing the Gargant in the back of the head. it fell to the ground with a thud, gargerling as it fell.
"Mildec you ok?" the cpatain asked
"ya, shit them things hit hard" he sead standing up, the side of his face looked rather crushed and bleeding hard. "good thing for me being a Vampire hay" he sead jokely.
She grabed her bag and walked over to the door and looked outside swet running down her face. "ok its clear" she sead turning to the Doctor "you comeing?" she asked.
"hang on Cap" Mildec sead, turning to the Doctor and walking over to him leaning down.
"you comeing with us to get out or you just going to sit there waiting to get eaten?" he sead sending a Psi message to him.

OOC: my Vampires are based in Vampires from the RPG Vampire: the Masqurade

Drix and his team where ready, him and a detachment of Pathfinders were going to the Gargant lair where they were holding his people. flying over there in 2 Sig'Gal dropships, he hoped that his people were alive they were his best aswell ex Special forces and Captain Kimzume being a Nano Aurgmented.
"so are we going in with a joint force?" someone asked drix
"no idea we should be told shortly" he replyed

EDIT: This is my Puppet Modarn Nation dam Jolt forum

DESC Corlon



”Well, it seems the best would be a joint force especially since we are going through First Contact talks. I’ll send down a flight of our Proteus Fighters to provide air support.”

Reaching for his communicator, the captain sent the command to the Navigator. Placing his communicator back on his belt, he turned to Bishop again.

“I told them to report to your encampment to help with the rescue mission. With the large number of troops you have, I can’t see adding more would help. All we can do for now is continuing until we reach word of what is happening.”

“Captain!”

Looking over at Chrysta, everyone in the room could see her black eyes.

“I just verified with the Archangel. Doctor Thomas is a Ta’Nar!”

“WHAT??” Foster stood up, his eyes turning black also. “We must get him back. He will not be left behind! I don’t care if we have to destroy everything on that planet. We have to get him back.”

Captain Foster turned his black eyes to Bishop. “I cannot stay here. I must be down there to search myself. Chrysta can continue the talks. She has full authority.”

Foster concentrated and faded from view.




The Navigator


10 Proteus fighters launched from the hangar deck and shot down to the surface. Approaching the Corpsac base, the fighters radioed for clearance to land.



Arneb 2


Captain Foster appeared in the presence of Major Hamond.

“I have 10 fighters approaching here in 60 seconds. I want one to land so I can pull the pilot. I am leading them myself.” The Captains eyes still glowing black.


DESC Corlon


Chrysta took a drink of the Spider Blood Whiskey. Looking at it, she asked.

“What effects does it have on Psi? I suppose I should know before I drink too much.”

Looking at the amazed look upon Bishop’s face Chrysta sighed and took another sip.

“I suppose I must explain, but first you have to disable all recording and viewing devices. This must not be heard outside this room, even through your hiveminds.”


Arneb 2

Groggly, the Doctor stood and followed the two soldiers. The Entity within him concentrating on healing the head wound.

Bishop was shocked when he saw Fosters and Chrystas, only once had he seen such a thing and only once was he so scared. Devilons? he thought no cant be if they were they would have killed us by now unless.
"“What effects does it have on Psi? I suppose I should know before I drink too much.” he heard Chrysta say, he heard here sigh and takeing a sip of the wiskey. then he heared he voice again “I suppose I must explain, but first you have to disable all recording and viewing devices. This must not be heard outside this room, even through your hiveminds.”
he looked at all the people in the room, they knew what he was asking befor he opened his mouth and they all stood up and walked out (even the guards who were half asleep on the walls), the technomages gave Chrysta a dirty look as if they were looking at something lower the something on there boot. but at the same time the look of fear in there eyes showed, something about foster and Chrysta's sudden actions scared them more then anything for over 200 years. tho in the room with bishop and Chrysta was a Psi for simple reasons of make shore no one was scaned angenst there will.

(OOC: what you thought Bishop was a Corpsacian lol hes based on a Gangrel. not shore if the P12 will notice your Ta'Nar but its the law to have a Psi in a room when theres at lest 1 Psi with a rather high ranking milltary person or Important Civilian)

"i must warn you what ever you tell me i will have to report it to the Emperor and the Stigmata high lords for reasons im not cleared to say but you wont need to worrie about "leaks" the High lords are the highest ranked members of our Empire....next to the emperor" Bioshop sead. he drained his glass of Spider Blood wisky, his Retnas seemd to turn a Blood red then turned back to his natral Blue.

Arneb 2 Corlon Airbase
Hamond jumped when foster apeared pulling out his 9mm handgun pointing it at fosters head as foster sead “I have 10 fighters approaching here in 60 seconds. I want one to land so I can pull the pilot. I am leading them myself.” Hamond saw who it was and quickly hostered the gun "sorry sir i didnt know, right away they should have been cleared to land as we picked them up, Airstrip 17 i will get one of my People to take you there" Hamond sead "JOHNSON GET IN HERE" he roared "take Captain foster to airstrip 17"
Johnson nodded "right away sir", at the time he was just about to walk out the office "er...sir if you follow me" he sead to Foster.
Outside the once small camp was getting larger, mutiply makeshift runways and air pads had be built along with makeshift buildings walls turrets towers all this in a matter of a day or 2. he looked round and saw lots of insectiods building things at grate speed, at times one would attack another for doing something wrong thats when a few marines would jump in and pull the things apart even if it did take 10 men to each one.

Mildec and Captain Sakumi Jounouchi ran down a tunnal of sort, the doctor was behind. Midec snift "doc are you bleeding?" he asked then remmbering the guy didnt understand a word he was saying "hay Cap do we have any med kits?" he asked Sakumi.
"ya why?" she replyed
"the docs hurt" Mildec sead
"and how do you know hes a Doctor?" she asked looking at him, he just smiled back as she pulled out a small container and a small needle like thing.
"Nano bots will speed up the healing of your wounds as well as other advantages, also them pills will kill the pain, tho as we're not shore about your race we will only give you a quter pill if anything goes wrong the nanites will sort it out. we're only give you them if you want them otherwise we'll dress your wounds other then that we cant do anything elce Milldec sead thia a Psi message to Dr Thomas.

Dirx and his team were nearing there target when a comm came though, "Commander Drix new orders your to wait for a group of Balroggaian fighters, its now a joint opperation thats all"
drix looked down, "god dam joint mission god dam it, PILOT eta?" he shouted to Stef the pilot
"meh.....10 minutes oh and them fighters should be here in say 20 minutes let me guess carry on?" she sead
"no find a landing spot and we will wait" he replyed
"wow not like you, ok landing spot landing spot" she sead looking around for around 5 minutes and finding a spot.

DESC Corlon
the technomages had just gone to one of there rooms, both looked round and started talking fast.
"we need to tell the emperor now and the Technomage high Council and the sitgmata High council"
"true i will do it you head back and wait outside"
"vary well"
the younger one walked out, as the other opened a comm to the emperor.
"ahh high master what is it?" the emperor asked
"Devilons we think, we're not shore 2 of the people we saw eyes turned black as the historical archives sead and bishop looked as if he saw death itself" the High master reported
"im on my way this is worrieing i just hope to hell your wrong" Horrar sead "im will be there soon"
"your coming on the Souless?" the high master asked
"no the Crow-Da we will be there in a few hours i will order Valkyrie to load the Crow-Da with the surpplys needed for the base and concel all other ships on route to Arneb 2" the emperor ordered "anything elce?"
"no my lord" the HM replyed as the emperor cut off the comm line

OOC: forgot to mention Devilons are a Group of Races from my far far far past (funny thing was they were at war with Angelons) its not that your one of them (im shore of that) but IC makeing your eyes go black just made Bishop shit his pants and the Technomages worrie (whats a hard thing to do, well done your the first person on NS to do so)

The black eyes are a sign of Psi activity, like the red "hyperspace" eyes yout P12 had. This is the first time you witnessed it but when Chrysta forced him out of her mind her eyes turned black. I guess it was fortunate we were on different ships at that time...

I will compose my post now....

DESC Corlon


Chrysta looked around. Doing a quick scan she detected nobody but Bishop and his P12 escort.

“I understand your security and the need to report to your superiors. I don’t want and proof of what I am about to reveal. You will understand the reason afterwards.”

Looking over to the Psi standing in the corner Chrysta locked eyes with him for a second so he would understand the meaning behind her words.

“If I detect he is broadcasting, I will shut him down, fast.”

Sitting down at the table, Chrysta suddenly slumped face down, unconscious.



Arneb 2: Corlon airbase

The Proteus fighters circled airstrip 17 and landed at the coordinates provided by the CorpSac air control. A vehicle rushed towards the ships at breakneck speed. The lead pilot was climbing out of the cockpit, puzzled by the orders he received.

The vehicle screeched to a halt and Captain Foster jumped out.

“Soldier, hand me your helmet. I am taking this one personally. Enjoy the fresh air for a while.”

Still puzzled, the pilot handed his helmet to the Captain. Foster jumped into the cockpit and began to power up the craft.

“OK, this is the Captain. I want everyone airborne in 30 seconds.”

The pilot climbed into the ground car and rode off.



Arneb 2: Jungle


The entity within Doctor Thomas could feel the nanites beginning to work on the fractured skull on his host. He assisted their healing by using the skills taught to him many years ago. The concussion will have to pass upon it’s own later, the fracture was more important. “Damn! Why couldn’t I be a telepath?” All he could do for now is use his healing on his host.


DESC Corlon


Chrysta lay unconscious with her head upon the table. Bishop was starting to be concerned when a ghostly form rose out of her body. When it spoke, the words appeared directly within his mind.

“Greetings, I am Ta’Nar. Foster is Ta’Nar. The doctor captured down there is Ta’Nar. We are an old race. We have been around for thousands of years. We evolved from needing our bodies over a millennium ago. The Ta’Nar inhabited and controlled a small globular cluster for thousands of years, where we were only known as The Overlords. It was decided colonization of this galaxy was desired. Several ships of ours were dispatched and we set up many colonies. We were going to expand into this galaxy when the call to return was sent out. We boarded out vessels and returned to Tal’neer, our homeland.”

“Along the way our ship encountered problems and it crashed upon a backwards world. This world was so backwards, only magic worked. Technology was completely smothered. We had no choice other than to take the humans there as hosts. One of us rose as the leader of the Ta’Nar. Nhur-Galladu spoke to us of an idea he had. He watched the mages of that world through the eyes of his host and decided upon a plan of action. He called us together and bid us to take as hosts those who were powerful both politically and magically. He wanted us to form a kingdom of sorts so we can stay together.”

“While we were establishing the Balrogga Empire, the Ta’Nar in the mage hosts were studying the way the humans manipulated magic. It was understood there was ways to move great distances using this force, but it would take many mages. Using both political power and magical power, Nhur-Galladu assembled mages whose combined power that world has never seen in one place. He used them to transport the Empire to another world where Technology worked. It was a small world named Terra orbiting a yellow star.”

“When we transferred, some of the magic came along with us. We adapted some of the technologies from Terra to function within this Eldritch Legacy that followed us. After we noticed it was fading, we began a project to use the last of the magic to levitate sections on one of the islands into orbit to begin our climb back to the stars.”

The form looked over at the P12 in the corner.

“Yes, we are pure Psi energy. Chrysta by herself might be your equal but we have made adjustments to our hosts. We have gengineered them to act as catalysts, or boosters. That is why we have no latent psi, all those with talent are full psi.”

Looking back to Bishop, the Entity continued.

“As I just said, we engineered the genetic structure of our host race so they may better serve us as hosts. It also benefited the race as a whole. 100 years ago they were squatting in the mud terrified of the spooks in the forests and now we have elevated them to the stars.”

“We are trying to find out way back home. We have been left behind over 1000 years ago and we all vowed to never leave even one. As the commanding officer Foster was responsible for retrieving the Ta’Nar from the planet. It is required he forgo anything to do this.”

"Each of the Ta’Nar have different talents. Foster’s is Telerelocation. Mine is Telepathy. There are PKs, Healers, and others too numerous to mention, and at varying degrees."

Opening “her” arms as a sign of openness the Entity continued.

“I hope you now understand. Foster did not mean to affront you with his actions, he was providing the highest duty to our race. It is similar to a blood oath, but much deeper.”

The Entity sat down into Chrysta’s body. She stirred after a few moments and sat up.

“What now?”

Just a reminder of the Font Color Codes for Balrogga

Telepathic communication

Computer

Entity thoughts

Normal Thoughts

OOC:

Patiently awaiting Corpsac to post...

Bishop was shocked, he looked round but then somehow understood. Then all of a sudden someone burst into the room, one of the Pathfinders.
"er..sir some dire news" he sead running over and wispering something into bishops ear.
"my god, no.....the emperor.....dead...." a tear formed in Bishops eye "exuse me Chrysta but The Emperor was killed a few days ago, our ship is being called back to Dark Empire space it seems alot has happened over the last few days and its no longer safe for a civilian vessal to be outside our space. its a shame we're now at war with 2 empires but for different reasons" Bishop looked down. "these talks can carry on on the DESC Liberty that is soon to arrive with surpplys for the Base below, its a Tigerclaw Destoryer not as nice as this vessal but safer"

Arneb 2: Jungle

Drix and his team had waited for 10 minutes and the Balrogga fighters but they were no where to be seen.
"screw this get us going" he shouted, he looked round at some of the people in his team.
After about 10 minutes of flying they had landed and jumped out, the pathfinders had jumped out at a higher hight and killed 4 Gargant with out even fireing a single shot.
"did they...just kill 4 of them with out fireing a single shout?" Drix asked as they tuched down. the bodys of the ape things was not pritty one had been riped in two, the others haveing limbs missing and even there entire heads.
"all clear sir" The lead pathfinder sead, "we need to head that way" he pointed towards a thick bit of jungle.
"Fire a Flar for them Fighters to find us, clear an area for them to land quick people" Drix shouted befor setting off towards the camp.

DESC Corlon

Chrysta was taken aback by Bishop’s announcement. She genuinely felt sorrow for him and his people. She had never met this Emperor but she could see the devotion in the face of the gentleman across the room.

“I really don’t know what to say…”

Chrysta finished the last of the wine in her goblet and set it carefully on the table.

“You have my respects and condolences. You have treated us well and I will make sure all we meet will know of this. You are welcome as a friend. I will tell Captain Foster about the developments.”

Walking over to Bishop she had to give him credit where it was due. Even after finding about the Entity within he held his calm and did not flinch away when she put her hand upon his arm. With her other hand she gave him a small piece of Jewelry.

“I ask you to keep this as a reminder of the friendship that is possible between our two societies. We will present another to the team that arrives on the DESC Liberty. This is yours to keep.”

Looking at the object in his hand Bishop could see a small pendant with a blue star depicted by some unknown gem at the center.

“The Denera Crystal resonates when Psi is used in your immediate area. It is given as a symbol of peace between us.

Chrysta steps away from Bishop. She glances at the psi cop in the corner, sweat running down his face.

“Remember, this conversation was private. I don’t want anyone to know what was said between Bishop and myself. You have done your duty making sure I did not use my talents upon your commander.”

As she spoke the last words she let a little of the Psi shadow to cloud her eyes for a brief second. The guard nearly wet his pants but he held his ground. The amulet vibrated slightly. Chrysta turned back to Bishop.

“I will now return to the Navigator within the hour. You have our friendship. We will send over one of our Proteus Fighters as a personal gift.”




Arneb 2



Foster flew his Proteus like a madman. His eyes were clouded in psi shadow.

“They are three clicks ahead. We will be there in 30 seconds. Prepare to provide cover for the ground troops.”

“Roger Captain”

Foster skimmed along the treetops of the jungle canopy, the wash from his engines causing some of the fronds to smolder.




T-Space


Another colonyship arrived and held position next to the Luckstone, waiting for the talks to finish.




Arneb 2: Jungle


The entity was working with what feeble healing talents he learned a millennium ago upon the concussion the doctor received. The nanobots injected by the alien soldiers seem to help. The consciousness slowly began to awaken.

The two soldiers lead the Doctor through the jungle, avoiding the primitives where they could.

In the distance, the entity could feel the touch of another Ta’Nar’s mind. Someone was coming to rescue him.

DESC Corlon

Chrysta boarded her shuttle and waited for the CorpSac Command to clear her launch. After a few minutes the AI was contacted by the bridge.

This is CorpSac Command. You are cleared to disembark the Corlon.”

Accessing the communications array she sent a message.

“Thank you for your allowing me to visit. Please tell Bishop his taste in wine is excellent. Shuttle 3, out.”

Activating the AI and imputing the commands she directed the shuttle to return to the Navigator. The small craft lifted off the flight deck, smoothly turned 180 degrees, and left the ship.





T-Space

“This is the Colony Ship Luckstone. How soon can we allow our passengers to land? They are getting anxious.”

“Go ahead. You have permission to drop to Real Space and offload your passengers.”

“Roger, will do so immediately.”




Arneb 2

Three ships dropped from T-Space, their matter being transferred back in to Real Space. The gigantic colony ships were accompanied by a Vengeance Class destroyer. The two colony ships descended to the planet’s surface while the destroyer remained in orbit. The two ships landed and the colonist began unloading the shipping containers.

Arneb 2

Drix and his team moved in, opening fire on all the apes as they called them ripeing them to peaces. Nothing seemed to stop Drix's team to get to there targets, and the fighers above where giveing some support. Meny of the Apes had ran out of the caves roaring at the fighters and throwing rocks at them but they where quickly cut up by the fighters.

Drix moved in quickly they didnt know what was around the cornor and they didnt take any chances. Opening fire at all the apes that ran by and the Pathfinders where riping the others apart that didnt fall to the bullets. "sick fucker them path finders" one of the privates said. Running down the tunnels following the tracer beacons of the lost marines, down one, down another, still going more and more. after about 10 minutes they ran into Sakumi and mildec and the Balroggaians.
"good now lets get the fuck out of here, contact the Dropships tell them we're on our way" Drix shouted, just as 2 marines chucked Mildec and Sakumi assult rifles. "what the fuck are them?" Sakumi said looking at the pathfinders, one of the growled.
"pathfinders there er...well dont get on the wrong side of them" a Lt replyed. The marines moved out, covering the Balroggaian as they ran up the tunnels. there were more Apes now, most had come back from the surface and it didnt look good.
"shit where the fuck are they comeing from" on of the privates sead opening fire, the things were surroundning them.
"cover the Balroggaian contact the Balrogga fighters tell them we're in some deep shit" Drix sead, opening fire at a Ape thing that jumped at him from no where.
Things didnt look good for the marines and the pathfinder well, they were haveing the time of there life.

Arneb 2 Jungle


The two groups of fighters circled above the combat firing upon the primitive Gargants as they swarmed around the troops. The simians fell as wave after wave sprang up to take their place. There were thousands of them literally coming out of the woodwork.

“Navigator, this is Captain Foster, have the Domain send down some reinforcements to help out here. It seems we are having a bloody native revolt here. Send down some more fighters. We need to provide cover fire until the ground troops get here.”

The fighter he was flying fired upon some Gargants who were pushing boulders down a cliff face upon the troops below. The creatures scattered into the vegetation only to return as Foster flew off to another group that were doing the same thing further down the ridge.




Arneb 2 Orbit


Three minutes later…

The Domain, a Vengeance Class Destroyer, dropped out of T-Space. The flight deck opened and three drop ships fell to the planet’s surface. They were accompanied by twenty Proteus Fighters who flew ahead to clear the way for the landing.

The Domain maneuvered into a geostationary orbit above the battle and held position.




Arneb 2 Jungle

The wave of Proteus Fighters swept down towards the jungle just out of range of the main battle. They opened fire with their torpedoes, blasting the jungle flat. Minutes later the three dropships scorched the vegetation as they went to full burn to slow for a landing. The front of the ships fell open as troops rushed out. The shouting of the commanders was smothered by the engines as the dropships lifted off again. The squads streamed into the jungles, shooting anything with too much hair.

Foster flew the ridge again chasing the Gargants away from the edge. Something was wrong with the way they acted. They were too coordinated. He activated the communicator.

“This is Foster, get me Chrysta.”

“Chrysta here, what’s up?”

“I need you to scan the area. The Gargants seem to be acting funny. They are acting like something is controlling them. They are acting too intelligently. Normal primates would have fled from us as soon as we fired our first shot. See if you can find anything and take care of it if you do.”

“Yes Sir. I will do so immediately.”




Arneb 2 Orbit aboard The Navigator


Chrysta sat down and concentrated. Her eyes became black pits of nothingness as her upper level Psi ability activated. She felt her mind leave her body and drift planetward. She could feel the seething mass of minds below her. She could feel the Imperial Troops fresh into the battle, the CorpSac troops and their strange commanders who were neither dead nor alive, and a kind of mental “hum”. She followed the hum and it slowly coalesced into a kind of awareness. Carefully she began to inspect the “mind” of the Gargants.

Each Gargant acted as a part of a whole. Each of the simians were completely unaware of the intelligence behind their actions but they all contributed to it. Chrysta wondered why it would send thousands of it’s components to die. Every Gargant that died reduced the community mind so death was a form of lobotomy.

Thinking to herself, she thought of a way to stop the slaughter. Concentrating, she gathered her strength and struck at each of the minds of the Gargants, urging each to drop to the ground and fall asleep.



Foster felt a surge of psi energy and every simian in sight fell to the ground unconscious.

“Damn, sometimes she scares me. I am glad she is on our side. Just think, she isn’t even fully trained yet.”

Keying the radio Foster shouted commands as he piloted the craft to the ground.

“Get in there and rescue the men before they wake back up.”



“Who are yousss? Why have you done this to ussss?”

The voice startled Chrysta as she regained her strength after the psionic assult.

“We needssss them or we will diesss. Why did yousss try to kill ussss?”

“You attacked us first. You took both our people and their people captive. We only responded with the same violence you first showed toward us.”

“But Isss not kill all of yousss like yousss did to me. There are none leftsss.”

Slightly confused by this for a moment Chrysta realized the mind could not feel the sleeping simians because her assault must have temporarily disconnected the contact. Much like anesthesia will render a subject incapable of dreaming.

“They are not dead, they are just asleep. I am sorry but to stop the killing I had to make every one of them sleep."

“You liessss. You will killsss me next.”

Chrysta could feel its panic. She began broadcasting soothing empathic projections at the mind to try to calm it back down.

“Please calm down. We don’t want to hurt you. Everyone has been hurt enough already.”

It seemed to be working

“Are yousss sure? I still can’t feelsss them."

“You will once I let them wake back up.”

Reaching out she felt Foster and contacted him.




“Captain, I will have to let them wake up in a couple minutes so I can continue talking to the mind. Don’t ask, I will tell you later. Let everyone know the creatures are waking up and will move away if left alone.”

Foster felt confused for a moment and then activated the communicator using all frequencies.

“This is Captain Foster of The Navigator. This goes out to all troops of both nations. Do not harm the Gargants. They will awake in a few moments and if left alone, they will go away. This has been arranged with whatever is controlling them. I repeat, let them leave.”

"I hope everyone listens" he thought to himself.





Chrysta releases the grip she has on the minds of the Gargants one by one. She can feel as each awakens, the communal mind relaxes a bit.

“Yousss not lie to me. Wesss are still alivesss.”

“Yes, they were only asleep. I am letting them awaken. Make sure they leave the strangers as quickly as possible so nobody has to be killed.”

“I will do assss you say. Are you one of the old godsssss?”

“We will talk of that later. Right now getting yourselves to safety is most important. I must leave for a little while but someone will return as soon as possible”

“Wesss will wait.”

Terra: Imperial Palace

The Emperor sat there reading the report that had just arrived from the Arneb system. His gold and white Imperial Robes glistened in the sunlight streaming in from the garden windows. The songs of the birds set a calm background.

“This clinches it. The Arneb system was one of their systems. The hieroglyph discovered earlier might have been just a shot in the dark but the presence of the Gargant servitor race makes this world one of theirs. The hieroglyph should lead us to the next system of theirs.”

Reaching over to a COM link, the Emperor activated it.

“Send in the Ambassador”

The doors opened a few seconds later and a tall gentleman entered. He was dressed in the formal uniform of the Diplomatic Corps.

“You called for me?”

“Yes, I have a job for you. I need you to get to Arneb 2 for an important mission. The Empire of CorpSac is going to under First Contact talks with us. The Navigator met them and we started relations with them but there were a couple incidents that threw complications into the talks.”

“The natives on the planet captured one of our Ta’Nar and some of their soldiers. We acted together to free them so that is a boost to our talks. While this was going on, their Emperor was killed when his ship was destroyed. Their representative was recalled and they are sending another ship.”

“The final monkey wrench tossed into the works was when the Ta’Nar assigned to The Navigator had to use her abilities to stop the Gargants from attacking. She discovered the natives had a group consciousness or a communal mind. This is nothing like a hive mind. With a hive mind each individual is aware of each other. None of the simians are aware of anything but they do make up components of a communal intelligence which can guide each individual. We will be investigating this event also because it could be evidence that Arneb was a colony of The Others.”

“I will command the accompaniment of several Ta’Nar who are specialized in telepathic communication to assist in your mission. You will leave immediately.”

“Yes Sir!”

The gentleman turned and left the room. The Emperor continued to sit looking out the doorway into the garden.

“At last we found a clue to where you are.”



Arneb 2: Orbit

The Sheildbearer, a Peacekeeper Class Cruiser and the Saratoga, an Intruder Class Carrier faded into existence as they dropped from T-Space into Real Space. They took position near The Navigator. After a few minutes a shuttle was launched from The Saratoga which docked with The Navigator.



The Navigator
Captain Foster took a sip from his glass as the packet of Orders sat unopened in front of him. Taking a breath, he reached out and touched the reader. The device scanned his DNA and broke the seal. The top of the container opened and he could see papers lying within. He reached in and took the papers.


Later


The Navigator faded into nothingness as it Uplifted and left the system. The Saratoga, The Domain, and The Sheildbreaker remained in system to continue the First Contact talks

Hind’s Crimson Star

The Navigator entered the system within T-Space and came to a halt.

“Captain, we have reached Hind’s Crimson Star. All systems are at peak performance.”

“Excellent, Computer launch a Sensor Probe, but keep us in T-Space. We can retrieve the probe later.”

A sensor probe was deployed and the data reading began to filter through the computer to be analyzed by the AI. A full reading of the system was taken in a few minutes. The Red Giant variable star was illuminating the system with an eerie crimson light.

“Computer, read me the results of the survey.”

“Yes Captain. The system contains 7 primary objects. The last five are uninhabitable due to temperature extremes. The first would be a little warm and the second would be a cold world nit inhabitable. It would all depend upon the solar phase.”

“Solar phase? What do you mean?”

“The star is of a classification of stars called Variable Stars. The star goes through rapid phases. According to observations, this star has a Variable Phase of 14.5 Terran months. The reason for this is the presence of carbon in the stellar atmosphere. The carbon accumulates in the upper atmosphere of the sun until the pressure below blows it out of the sun into the planetary spheres. For about a month the sun gets deep red. From Earth it is the reddest star in the night sky. After the blow out, the star gets a blue shift and then more solar energy falls upon the planets creating a heat wave for a few months until the carbon starts to accumulate again, gradually shifting the star red again.”

“The climatic changes couldn’t do much to support life, you would think. They would have two winters a year.”

“It all depends upon the Planetary Revolution. If the planet revolves around Hind at 14.5 months then the seasonal changes would not be seperated. Hind 1 has a revolution of 106.75 days and it has a single moon. The Hind 2 has a revolution of 216 days and it has three small moons.”

“Concentrate the scans upon the two inhabitable worlds.”

“Yes Sir”

Sorry to enter at such a late date, but I just found this thread. Very nice
indeed, is there room for another?

Yes, as long as it is RP based

Hind: aboard The Navigator

“Sir, the scans show structures upon both worlds. There is no sign of current habitation anywhere in the system.”

“Excellent, Computer launch a beacon so we can establish this as an Imperial colony world.”

“Yes Sir”

A small object was launched from The Navagator. The object obtained it’s position and began transmitting the Imperial claim of the system.

“Computer, read me the data from the scans.”

“The ruins on Hind 1 are quite extensive. There are entire cities of structures to explore. The primary concentrations of ruins are along the coastlines, like in the case of Terra. Water travel seems to be the key to the choice of location. I can detect no less than seven spaceports bit there is no sign of power emanating from anywhere on the entire sphere.”

“Hind 2 seems to be the opposite. There are few settlements and with a few exceptions they are all around the mountainous terrain. This points to possible underground establishments. There is also reading of an active power source at these coordinates.”

“Inform Gliese we will need a research vessel and an armed contingency immediately. Also send for some Motherships to begin resource collection.”

“Yes Sir.”

“While we wait, send down a team to locate that power source on Hind 2.”



Three hours later several ships drop from T-Space to Real Space. The two Vengeance Class Destroyers and four Peacekeeper Class Cruisers accompany three Research ships and an Intruder Class Carrier. Twenty minutes later three Motherships drop into the system, one in a near solar orbit and the other two in the near asteroid belt. Several small vessels swarm out of them as they begin to assess the system for resources. The outer ones begin to set up the ore transport railguns while the central ship begins the construction of a SOLAR Station and Solar Satellites.

Hind 2: One week later

The scientists were busy investigating the complex. The initial reading showed a power source from this area of Hind 2 but there was no way to even guess what was here. It was beyond imagination.

The initial infiltration team consisted of primarily military personal to secure the complex so it was safe for the researchers to do their work. The team met with no resistance, other than harmless dust bunnies. That was when the scientists were called in.

The first time they entered the Room, they had no idea what to think. They could only see walls of machinery. There was nothing resembling anything the Empire used for data input or any neurolink connections available. There was no way to interact with the machinery. The research team was completely baffled. There was no way to get into the machinery other than a couple access hatches. Not wanting to possibly destroy anything they had to satisfy themselves with taking an endless series of pictures and readings.


Navigator

Captain Foster was walking down the hallway talking with Chrysta.

“The rest of the system checks out. There is nobody else here but the Empire. The Factories have started setting up the sensor net so we can see if anyone approaches the system or attempts to open one of those hyperspace gates like what CorpSac used. The system is secure as we can make it on one week.”

“Any word from Hind 2 yet? I know they have hit a wall, so to say.”

“No, nothing yet. They haven’t a clue what the machinery does, much less how to disassemble it without risking destroying anything vital. There are no signal outputs from any of the machines. The detection of the power source is the only sign they are active.”

“Perhaps we should go down and provide some morale support. Besides, I kind of want to see what these machines are.”

“That might be a good idea. Meet me on the flight deck in 4 hours.”



Later

The shuttle landed outside the entrance to the complex. The Captain and Chrysta entered the doors and followed the guide to where the team was busy at work.

Upon entering the room Chrysta noticed a tickling in the back of her mind. She closed her eyes and concentrated.

“What is wrong?

“Shhh!, I am detecting a presence.”

Chrysta concentrated upon the faint glimmer and followed it to its source. There was a presence there bit it was subdued or hibernating. Chrysta used her passive senses to probe its barriers. She found a resistance to her probe, signaling an adequate defense. She switched to an active probe and broadcast a greeting.

“Hello, who are you?”

“Huh?”

“Who are you?”

“I AM B.C. Who are you?”

“My name is Chrysta. I am from Terra. We have just recently discovered this world. We detected a power source from orbit and followed it here. Who are you?”

“I told you. I am B.C.”

“What are you doing here?”

“This is my home. I have been here as long as I can remember but I have been sleeping for a very long time.”

“What do you do here?”

“I run everything.”

“You run everything? What do you mean?”

“I control the lights, power, and computers. I run everything.”

“Can you show me?”

The scientist about the room who were staring at the girl with black shadowstuff clouding her eyes were startled when the lights suddenly switched from dim to bright and the wall of machinery became activated. They muttered in excited voices. Foster concentrated and joined in with Chrysta using the Ta’Nar innate abilities.

“Hello, this is Foster, the captain of the vessel that found this world. Are you the one activating the lighting?”

Yes, I control everything.”

“He says his name is B.C.”

“Yes, that is my name. You said you are from Terra? Where is that?”

“It is about 1500 Ly away. We followed some information we discovered on Arneb 2 to this world. We are searching for clues to an ancient race that disappeared about 1100 years ago.”

“I know not any of these names you speak of. They might refer to systems I know of but those are names your race uses, not what I would understand.”

“We need to devise a reference for him to use, Captain. I think I am beginning to understand the nature of who and what he is.”

“I believe I am getting an idea too. B.C. is an alien telepathic computer.”

Three weeks later:


The Farseeker found a blasted world with some ruins at Nihal, lying about 160 light years from Terra. There were several suns in the immediate area, the star system being a multiple system. The standard mining operations and solar collections were immediately set up surrounding the six stars. The research vessels immediately began to comb through the ruins but as of yet nothing has been discovered.

The Hidden Treasure was dispatched to Algol. The system, a mere 93 Light Years Form Terra seemed completely serene. There were 11 planets, with three being habitable. As soon as it was determined safe, the Resource Collections was set up and colony ships were sent. No sign of previous habitation was ever discovered on Algol.

Foster set down the Reader. The reports were much longer detailing the stars and planets but the details were not important to him. He wanted to know where the clues would lead them next. There had to be something locked with B.C. they can use.

The Navigator sat above the second planet of the Hind system. She was accompanied by several vessels, mostly military craft although there was a colony ship. The great vessels were not used to ferry colonists to the planet, instead their cargo was much more precious. The ship had carried the research teams which were assigned the task of interacting with the strange telepathic AI that was still operational after lying dormant for over 1100 years. The scientist and researchers all had one thing in common. They were all Ta’Nar.

The Emperor personally ordered the assignment of the Ta’Nar because of the importance of the discovery and the possible knowledge to be gained from the AI, which called itself B.C. So far they were able to extrapolate the names of two stars that might lead to further clues. The Empire sent out Explorer Vessels to Nihal and to Algol.

“Captain?”

“Yes Computer.”

“There is a message incoming from the planet. They seem to be excited.”

“Play it on my private vid screen.”

The holographic screen flickered to life above his desk. An image of a human male appeared.

“Captain Foster.”

“Yes Alaquin?”

“We uncovered access to two new files on B.C. You might find this interesting.”

“What have you found?”

“The first one has a fragment of a star chart. It shows a vector leading away from this system but no end point. The data seems to be corrupted. We found it in one of the archives.”

“Transfer a copy to the Navigator immediately. What else did you find?”

“The second was a data record of the research undergoing at the lab. It appears they were doing some sort of bio-technology experimentation. They call it bitek. The ramifications are astounding. It will take years of study to be sure what they discovered but it could change the Empire if I am correct.”

“Upload everything using the Space Minus Transmitter to Terra. They must have copies of everything immediately.”

“Yes Sir.”

The image vanished. Foster sat for a few minutes contemplating what was just revealed to him.

“Computer”

“Yes Captain?”

“Plot a course following the vector in the data from the planet. I have a feeling we are going to be sent there soon.”

Chrysta was studying some of the reports from the attempts the Ta’Nar have been conducting to probe the AI calling itself B.C. With a jerk, she suddenly dropped the reports.

“Sister, I am coming.”

Chrysta dropped into a seated position upon the floor and cleared her mind. She concentrated upon the link that always was present in the back of her mind.

“Did I hear you right?”

“Yes, I am being sent out to Hind to take over the operation while you and the Navigator continue looking. The Emperor himself informed me.”

“That’s great! How soon are you expected?”

“I am finishing up some duties here on Earth but after that I will be sent on the first ship out there. I am hoping we can have some time to catch up on lost time. It has been too long since we have terrorized anyone together.”

“I certainly know what you mean. Let me know when you are about to leave.”

“I certainly will.”

Chrysta felt Chrystal’s presence leave her mind. She felt much better knowing she would soon see her twin.

“Chrysta, I need you on the bridge. They found something…”

Chrysta ran to the bridge. She arrived there a few minutes.

“Captain?”

“The researchers have discovered hidden research files on B.C. detailing biological technology. They cannot get into the files and need your help.”

“Let’s get below to see what we can do.”



An hour later


“Captain, I can feel the files but I am not skilled enough in Cyberpsi to access it. We need to call in an expert.”


Two days later


The ship Emerged from T-Space above Hind 2. The vessel was dressed in the White and Gold of the Emperor and displayed the Imperial Insignia. The three Peacekeeper Class Cruisers which flew escort took defensive position around the huge ship. The Isis, a Deity Class Carrier was immense, one of the largest ships in the Imperial Navy. The ship settled in an orbit near The Navigator.

Aboard The Navigator Chrysta was suddenly stopped by a familiar presence within her mind. She let out a shout of joy and raced off through the corridors of the vessel towards the bridge.

Chrysta burst onto the Bridge

“Captain, Captain! She’s here!”

Foster looked over from the holoscreen at Chrysta’s excited face. She was almost dancing uncontrollably as she stood there.

“If that is true, then she must have arrived on The Isis. The Emperor sent her with a research team of Ta’Nar to help with B.C.”

Chrysta looked over at the holoscreen. The image of The Isis floated amid the background of the stars. Several patrols of Proteus Fighters could be seen launching from its multiple launch tubes and several shuttle craft were leaving its hangers.

“She Emerged a few minutes ago. I already spoke to the Commander. She will be taking command of the Hind System. She will be delivering our next orders soon. We are to relax for a couple days more. You will have time to visit with Chrystal.”

“Huh?”

The Captain loved the surprised look upon her face. It is hard to take a Telepath of her caliber unawares.

“I am putting you on mandatory leave for the next three days. She is just getting off an assignment herself so she will be on leave too.”

A huge smile broke out upon Chrysta’s face.

“What are you doing here? Get off my bridge until you are on duty again.”

Chrysta ran off the bridge.

A few days later:

Chrysta and Chrystal walked into the Captain’s office. He gestured at two chairs which they took. After they sat down Foster reached over and touched a button. Several security screens activated, rendering all known listening methods.

“We have received orders. You are to accompany me on our next mission while your sister stays here and heads up the research into whatever secrets B.C. holds. It is extremely important we get to whatever is in those databanks. We have hints of possible bitek but none of the details. We have extrapolated a set of coordinates and we are to proceed there at utmost speed. We will leave in 6 hours.”

“What is the system are we going to?”

“We are going to pay a visit to the Regulus star. For some reason the coordinates of that system were in some of the data files but nothing else. We have no idea why but it was marked by B.C. Command wants us to investigate. Afterwards we are to return here unless we find something interesting. So far we have had two dead ends from B.C. Hopefully this will yield something we can use”

The Navigator slid smoothly out of T-Space into Real Space. Before her lay the Regulus System.

“Captain, there is something strange about the star. It appears to be spinning too fast.”

“What?”

“It appears Regulus is behaving strange. I cannot describe it right now without full sensor scans.”

“Launch whatever probes you need. Report your findings as soon as you get them.”

“Yes Sir.”

After a few minutes the officer speaks again.

“Sir, the preliminary readings show an incredible amount of spin on the star. According to the sensors Regulus is tilted 86 degrees toward Sol. It is rotation is approximately 1.1 Million Km per hour at its equator. In comparison Sol is about 7200 Km per hour. The rotation rate is so fast the increase of 10% would tear it apart. It luminary intensity is 350 times brighter than Sol. The rotation is causing the star to doughnut at the equator. The Solar Temp is way off too. The poles are about 15,000 degrees C while the equator runs about 10,000 degrees C. The poles are about five times brighter than the equator. There is no indication how this star got this way.”

“Send for the Motherships. We need a supply base set up for the research teams who will be here soon. I can’t even guess how many will want to study this.”

“Yes Sir. The sensor web is picking up several planetary bodies. The inner planets must have been torn apart by the tidal energies and sucked into the star but there are five safely out of the range of the gravitational pull of the star, three are gas giants. Captain, we are getting a large biomass reading from the middle gas giant.”

“What? Any biomass we can detect from this distance would be crushed by the planet’s gravity.”

“No Captain. Not on the surface, it’s in orbit.”


OOC: The data about the system is basically lifted from an article I read on Space.com

“Uplift Now”

The Navigator disappeared into T-Space, fading from view as it left Real Space.

“Can you detect any change in the biomass?”

“No Sir. It appears to be oblivious to our presence.”

“Shut down the sensors you launched. I want them to hibernate so they are undetectable.”

“Yes Sir.”

“Move us in closer. I want to see what is in orbit.”

“Yes Captain.”

The Navigator closed upon the mysterious object, approaching from behind the planet. They edged around the gas giant to get a better look.

“Captain, it appears to be some sort of space station. It’s huge.”

“Patch the video feed onto the holo screen.”

The holo projector sparked into life as it projected the image of a cylinder that was slightly larger in the middle and has hemispherical end caps. It has some sort of lines spreading out from the ends, apparently held in place by the rotation of the object. The object was lit from the star and did not show any sign of occupation. There were no ship flying about or any lights or movement other than the rotation of the object.

“Give me some details.”

“Yes Captain. It is 65 kilometers in length, 17 kilometers in width, and its composition seems to be a mixture of organic and mineral. The structures on the end caps seem to be carrying an electrical charge. It appears the object is at the edge of the planet’s magnetosphere. The structures are rotating through the edge, gathering energy. It appears that the structure is hollow.”

“Any sign of life?”

“The only thing we can detect is what appears to be automatics. There is an unmanned vessel or drone gathering debris from the ring structure of the planet and feeding it to receptacles in the further end cap. Apparently it gets some sort of nourishment from the materials and the spoke structures generate electricity by passing through the electromagnetic field of the planet. I am picking up electrical impulses from them.”

“Drop to Real space and slowly approach the structure but keep shields at maximum.”

“Yes Sir.”

The Navigator Emerged into Real Space and slowly glided towards the huge structure. Aboard the ship, all Ta’Nar “felt” a tickle in the back of their minds for a moment.

“What the hell? Full Stop!”

“Yes Sir.”

The Navigator completely stopped. The ship held its position about 50 K from the object.

“Chrysta, what the hell was that?”

“I don’t know, captain. It was as if something touched our minds.”

“Captain, we are recieveng a message from the object.”

“Let’s hear it.”

The Comm officer activated a couple circuits and the message began to play through the bridge speakers.

“Greetings Ta’Nari. At long last, you have come home!”

“What the hell?”

Several of the crewmembers looked at each other in shock. Foster sat there for a second or two processing what the message said.

“Open a Comm line.”

“Yes Sir. The line is open.”

“This is Captain Foster of the Exploratory Class vessel, The Navigator. Could you please clarify your last transmission?”

“Certainly, the last transmission was a welcome to your ship for your return.”

“Our return? We have never been here before. This is the first time any vessel from the Empire has been in this system.”

“I was not referring to the Empire, I was referring to the Ta’Nar. You have finally returned after all this time.”

Captain Foster signaled the Comm Officer to relay the conversation back to Babylon Command via the Space Minus Transmitter.

“We do have Ta’Nar aboard this ship. How long have you been waiting for us?”

“Almost 1500 years. I am thankful for your return. My halls have been aching for inhabitants since you left.”

“Who are you? How old are you”

“I am Tranquility. I was gestated almost 1700 years ago by your Bitek masters. I have served as a home for you for almost 250 years before you were called away.”

“Called away? What do you mean?”

“Are you sure you are Ta’Nar? You should remember.”

Again, all the Ta’Nar felt a tickle in the back of their minds.

“Yes, there are Ta’Nar aboard your vessel but not many. You minds feel familiar but there are also lesser minds too. Are they your servitor race? What happened to all the others?”

“We are trying to find them. Our evidence led us here.”

“You are welcome to come aboard. It would be easier to talk.”

“Where do you want us to enter?”

“I will start my space dock rotating so it will be easier to dock”

“Sir, there’s movement at the end cap.”

“We will prepare a shuttle to send a boarding crew.”

“Thank you, it will feel good to have inhabitants again.”

Foster signaled the Comm Officer to kill the line.

“What do you think, Chrysta?”

“It feels extremely lonely and excited. I think we should find out from home. They most likely will want to send a team here to investigate it.”

Chrysta looked at the image of Tranquility hovering in the holo tank.

“They might have to send several to cover that thing. It is huge.”

Sol: Imperial Palace


The message arrived via the Space Minus Transmitter. It was marked Urgent and addressed to the Emperor himself. The attendant transferred the unopened message to the Imperial Channel. The message traveled to the Imperial Network where it was scanned for anything that might be harmful. Once cleared, it was forwarded to the Emperors personal cache.

Nhur-Galladu sat reading a book. He carefully closed the ancient tome after being notified of an incoming message. The Emperor accessed his cache using his neurolink.

The Emperor watched the message with his inner eye and examined all the data that arrived with the report. He quickly composed a message and sent it off. He picked up his book and began to read again, his mind pondering these new developments.



Location unknown: Ta’Nar Headquarters


The message from the Emperor arrived and was quickly read by the Ta’Nar. They hurriedly moved to follow the orders. A lone Cruiser left the headquarters and quickly uplifted.



Gliese: Imperial Shipyards


“Sir, we have an unscheduled ship incoming in T-Space.”

“Contact them and find out who they are. Inform them this is a restricted system.”

“Yes Sir. There is no response.”

“Prepare the Defense Platforms. I want them to be able to remove that ship from existence before it gets near the system.”

“Yes Sir. Platforms activated. Space Minus Taps established. Full power to platforms has been established.”

“Go to Full Defense”

“Sir! The platforms just shut down. They completely deactivated. Records show they were disabled by a Priority AAA command from the ship. We have nothing to stop it before it gets within range of the system.”

“What! Scramble all vessels. I want the full Task Force to intercept them. Immediately.”

“Sir, we have an incoming message from the ship. They have identified themselves as a Ta’Nar vessel under orders from the Emperor. We are to stand down immediately.”

The Commander’s mouth went dry and he took a deep breath.

“Acknowledge them and shut down the defenses. Let them go wherever they want.”

“Yes Sir. Message sent.”

“Now ignore anything that ship does. It was never here and it doesn’t exist. If I’m needed, call me. I am going to get a drink.”

Moments later the Cruiser dropped from T-Space and sped through the system wide shipyards. It went straight to the most secure section unopposed. The ship approached The Cerberus and docked with the Dreadnaught.



Gliese: The Cerberus


Admiral King was waiting for the ship when it docked. As the airlock opened and two figures stepped out, he greeted them both.

“Welcome aboard The Cerberus. Professor Stark, I remember you from the University. What news do you bring?”

The eldest of the two steps forward and handed the Admiral his orders.

“The Emperor has commanded the use of the Covert Task Force. All your information is on that Data Crystal. Our ship will accompany the Task Force but we will remain aboard this Command Vessel. You are to arrive in the Regulus System within the hour. This is to be a Ta’Nar mission fully backed by the Task Force. We do not expect any military threat but we cannot allow the possibility. This is too important to the Empire to foolishly assume others might not want what we have recovered.”

“I understand. I was getting bored sitting here anyways.”

The Admiral used his Neurolink and contacted the bridge. After leaving several orders, he led his two guests to their quarters. Several ships began to assemble near The Cerberus and the Task Force Uplifted to T-Space.


Regulus: The Navigator


“Captain, there are a large number of ships approaching in T-Space.”

“Let me know when they Emerge. Um, did you say a large number?”

“Yes, I have several dozen contacts incoming.”

“I figured they would send some ships but I guessed a bit low. Hold position until the ships arrive.”

“Yes Sir. ETA is about 5 minutes.”

T-Space:


“Admiral, the Fleet is in position. We are ready to Emerge.”

“Follow standard protocols. We want to be sure to provide maximum coverage. I only want a third of out ships in system, keep the rest on Standby in T-Space. Bring over the Carriers so we can provide fighter support for system patrols.”

“Yes Sir, relaying your commands now.”

King waited patiently as his orders were relayed to the rest of the fleet.

“Sir, we will have Emergence in 15 seconds.”

“Execute.”


Regulus System:

Several frigates Emerged first in strategic locations around the system. Once the All Clear was sounded, The BelDragos, a Deity Class Carrier, Emerged into Real Space. She was followed by the Avatar Carriers, The Azrael and The Cheriour, and the Intruder Class Carriers, The Astaroth, The Belair, The Dagon, and The Mephisto. Their battleship, destroyer, and cruiser escorts followed the carriers into the system.

The Proteus Fighters immediately launched from the carriers and assumed their patrols.

“As you ordered, the Carriers have Emerged and launched their patrols. Of the remaining ships, the bulk remains in T-Space. The system has been cleared and secured.”

“Bring us in. We have work to do.”

“Yes Sir.”

Near The Navigator a large vessel easily four times her length dropped into Real Space. The Cerberus Dreadnaught dwarfed the Explorer Class ship.

“I hope we are expected.”

One month later:



Several ships scurried about the system. Resource collectors scrambled on their missions of breaking down and transporting raw materials from the belts to the Motherships where it would be processed. The resources were packaged into shells or containers and then jettisoned to the Railgun. The Railgun wasn’t really a railgun, it was a graviton gun which used the same process as its predecessor but with intense gravity wells instead of magnets. The result was a recoilless launcher that could be used to propel any object that would fit within its rails towards its target.

In the center of the system spun the Regulus star. Above the solar plane at the LaGrange point sat the Regulus SOLAR Station, a huge complex that received the resources shot into its artificially generated gravity well and processed the raw materials into whatever the shipyards and factories required.

Ships were docked at the SOLAR Station being updated or repaired. A few were being constructed, to be added to the Homeguard, the force of ships designated to guard the system they were stationed.

Occupying the system were almost a hundred ships. They were carefully patrolling the whole system, from the inner planets to the outer edge of the Oort Cloud. They were quick and efficient. Several carriers were also in the system. The smallest, the Intruder Class were on the outskirts of the system launching the Defense Network into T-Space where they would keep a watchful eye for almost 20 light years. They scanned all frequencies and in several dimensions. They would give a warning if any ships approached.

The Avatar Class Carriers were launching squadrons of fighters to patrol the system. The fighters were grouped into Wings of 8 Proteus Fighters. They made sure they were also watching above and below the solar plane.

The reason for all this excitement lay in the orbit of the middle gas giant.

A cylinder that was slightly larger in the middle and has hemispherical end caps was backlit by the glowing clouds of the planet. There were lines spreading out from the ends, held in place by the rotation of the object. There were many ships flying about the object, mostly shuttles and fighter patrols. An Explorer Class ship was parked alongside it being dwarfed by the Dreadnaught and the Deity Class Carrier. All three ships were made to appear insignificant by the 65 Kilometer length of the station.

Aboard The Cerberus, the Covert Task Force Flagship, Admiral King sat in his office going over various reports from the sensor arrays. The readings of the cylinder, Tranquility as it named itself, were quite unique. It appears to be a hybrid of biological technology and metallic implants. The majority of the station was organic but there was an exoskeleton of metal, mostly steel and titanium, which protected it from meteor impacts. The end caps were specialized constructs. The “north” was where a dock of a sort was situated while the “south” was where the support craft the station constructed carried debris from the ring structure to be processed by the station for whatever nutrients it needed to sustain itself. The bitek team will be studying this for months. Already they have figured out ways to improve their Serjents and ways to incorporate organic technology into the ships to allow faster communication and to make the AIs process information faster. All of this after just one month, no wonder the Emperor wanted a whole fleet stationed here. There was even a rumor Nhur-Galladu was going to make a personal visit.

The AI sent a signal over King’s Neurolink, indicating an incoming message. He accessed the link and watched the message.

This is Fleet Command. We have been able to process the navigation charts aboard Tranquility. It appears all the colony worlds have already been located in this galaxy. We are going ahead with a project that has been on the boards for some time in the case we have exhausted our search. Send The Navigator to the Threshold System and instruct them to meet with The Despair and her escort. Further orders will be carried by the Captain of The Despair.

The message ended. There was nothing concerning him so he forwarded it to the Navigator and went back to his reports.

The Navigator was hailed as she approached the Threshold system.

“This is The Station to approaching craft. Entrance into the Threshold System is forbidden. You must change course to rendezvous with us at the following coordinates. Failure to comply could result in the destruction of your craft. The system is not safe for travel unaided.”

“This is Captain Foster of The Navigator. We will comply with your request.”

The ship changed course and dropped to Real Space near the monstrous station at the edge of the system.

“Captain, I am picking up intense gravitational fluctuations from the Threshold System. It appears to be several Neutron stars. The readings are off the scale. If we would have Emerged in there, we might have been pulled into one of them. Our Mirage Drives would have protected us but it would not have been pleasant.”

“Then it is a good thing they warned us.”

“Sir, The Despair is already here. Her escort is docked with The Station. They are hailing us.”

“This is Captain Shew of The Despair. You are required to report to my briefing room as soon as you have docked.”

Foster looked at the reading from the system. He had never seen anything like this before. He was anxious to know what the hell was going on here and why The Navigator had been sent.

Foster left the ready room of The Despair feeling much better than when he arrived. When he entered the room an hour earlier, he was full of worry about what his new mission would be. After the lengthy brief, he was excited to get back to The Navigator. Chrysta would also get a good surprise too. Foster found himself smiling at the sight that played out in his mind.

About five minutes later, he was entering his own ready room. The officers were already waiting for him, as well as Chrysta. He had called ahead using his Neurolink. All the senior officers were assembled, hiding their curiosity behind masks of duty. Engineering, Communications, Navigation, Sensors, and Security were present, as well as Chrysta representing the Ta’Nar officially aboard. There was Ta’Nar who was not officially present, but was undercover. Foster was one of those who served privately as a Ta’Nar but used his career position as cover. It didn’t help that there were two different types of Ta’Nar.

There were the uplifted humans were acting as the information gathering branch of the Empire. When people spoke of the Ta’Nar, this image was conjured within the minds of people. Unknown to the mass majority there were other psionic beings who originally carried the name Ta’Nar. They were beings who evolved out of their bodies eons ago and inhabited the clones made specifically for them. Among themselves, they were called True Ta’Nar and the lesser ones called Children or Childer. Foster and Chrysta were True Ta’Nar.

“Well, I see everyone is here. I guess we better get this underway.”

Foster walked over to his seat and relaxed in the chair. He contacted the replicator with his Neurolink and ordered a drink. The glass materialized upon the table next to his hand, beads of sweat running down the cool surface. He picked it up and took a long drink from it, enjoying the fruity taste of the juice. Setting it down, he ordered a refill.

“I imagine your first question is what the hell that is outside the ship. The only answer I can give you is it is a wormhole device designed to connect any two points in the universe. All you need to do is input the coordinates of the two locations and it will create a wormhole between those points. That was the original design of the device. The Empire has turned it into an Intergalactic Trading Hub with the help of technology from another partner that created a system of wormholes connecting the worlds together in a system of a sort. They restricted it to commercial trade only. The real secret is that was just an experiment to what the Emperor really wanted. It was so successful they decided to use it for Public Relations and open the use to other nations. What nobody realized is the other part of the project was to build us an even larger one for our military use. They constructed it in a safe location and we only have to use the Space Minus Transmitter to call for a wormhole.”

Foster took another drink to wet his throat. He had been doing a lot of talking over the past hour and it felt wonderful on his throat.

“Our mission is to use the wormhole to travel to another galaxy and continue mapping and searching for any signs of the Lost Colonies. We were instructed to rendezvous here so we could take on additional crew and supplies, as well as having The Navigator go through an Update of her systems. We will be all alone out there and we will have to be self sufficient. Most likely we will be handling several First Contact situations and hopefully we can keep on good terms with all of them.”

“We are to remain here during the Refit. We won’t be on holiday; we will be receiving training for the mission. We will be taught how the new systems work. We will be educated in First Contact Protocols. We will be working our asses off. Once the ship and crew are ready, we will call for our ride and then our mission will start.”

“The additional crew should be arriving as I speak. They are experts called in from across the Empire and reassigned. Some of the knowledge they bring will be completely new to you. I want you to give them a chance and accept the new ideas they bring. They are why they have been chosen for this mission. If you have any questions, they will be answered in time.”

Foster looked his Senior Staff over. He could not only see the excitement, but also feel it from his men. They have been a fine crew but they would become even better.

“You are dismissed.”

The crew members stood up and started to leave.

“Chrysta, can I have a word with you?”

The young girl held back as the other left the ready room. She had a puzzled look on her face as she waited for the captain to address her.

“This mission will be especially tough on you and the Ta’Nar under your command. Imperial Command felt you would need some help in performing your duties.”

Chrysta was infuriated. The fury barely held in check.

“After all this time serving with you on The Navigator they don’t trust my abilities? What the hell does Command think they are…”

Foster held up both is hands and interrupted her.

“Calm down. You have been the finest most resourceful officer any captain could want. You have proven your worth countless times in the past. You don’t have anything to worry about.”

Foster could feel her assistant approaching the door to the ready room. He contacted them using his Neurolink and instructed them to wait a moment.

“I don’t have anything to worry about? Command sends us out on an important mission and they send along some newbie or ass kisser to muddle things up? What the hell am I supposed to think? They can just kiss…”

“Your assistant is waiting outside right now.”

“Let him in. I want to give him a piece of my mind and put him into his place. No ass kisser from Command is going to take my place.”

The door opened at a command sent over his Neurolink. In the doorway stood a mirror image of Chrysta. The smug look on her face showed she was monitoring the exchange that had been going on a few moments ago. Chrysta stood there dumbfounded.

“Are you going to say hello to your sister or are you going to stand there with your mouth hanging open attracting flies?”

In a flash Chrysta threw herself upon her sister. They swept each other into their arms as only sisters could, asking question about how things were going. After a few minutes, Foster interrupted their Hello’s.

“Pardon me; we have a ship to get into dry dock. The empire won’t wait for you to finish your babbling.”

Chrysta turned to Foster.

“You bastard, you deliberately kept me going. You let me believe all that stuff. You had it arranged all along.”

“Well, I couldn’t help it. You need stuff like this to keep you on your toes. Now you two get going. We have work to do.”

After everyone had left the ready room, the AI commanded the replicator to take away the glass, returning the room to its clean state.



Several weeks later:



The Navigator slipped slowly out of its shipyard berth deep in T-Space near the Threshold System. The crew worked effortlessly on the bridge. The new systems tested out positive and worked seamlessly.

“Take us to the Reinhold System. We have a Wormhole to meet with.”

“Yes Captain.”

The ship jumped into action and sped away. After a few minutes, The Navigator Emerged in the Reinhold System, an uninhabited empty system that was on the border of Imperial Space. It was chosen for the lack of eyes to witness what would be happening next.

“Inform Command we are in position and ready for our lift.”

“Yes Sir. They have been informed. The return message is “Stand By”.”

Suddenly a wormhole opened in front of them. It was a massively powerful thing to behold. The vortex of energy twisting in a swirl, drawing their exes into the seemingly empty spot at the center of the anomaly. The ship entered the vortex and disappeared from the Reinhold system.



Elsewhere:


A vortex of energy briefly appeared and then faded away. A single ship was left behind. The crew began to determine where they were and if anyone was around them. Comm officers monitored all frequencies and the Astronavigation department began to map out everything they could document within range.

The Navigator moved from system to system, mapping everything their sensors could detect. They discovered several signs of primitive animal or plant life forms but so far no sentient life was discovered. Several worlds were noted for possible colonization but that would be under the direction of bureaucrats back home.

“Sir, we are picking up some anomalous readings ahead in the next system.”

“What is causing them?”

“That is unknown at this distance.”

“Take us there but keep The Navigator hidden for the time being. I don’t want to pop in the middle of a war or something.”

“Yes Sir!”

"Sir, ther appears to be a large number of ships."

"Keep us cloaked until we know what is going on. We don't want to pop in and join the wrong side. Keep monitoring the situation and let me know if anything changes."

"Yes Sir."

The Navigator slowly moved into the system, monitoring all the traffic and communications. They wanted to be sure before thay exposed their existance here. They were all alone in this galaxy with nobody else to call allies. Caution was the tool being employed right now.

Zadeth Tyrneanea tapped his finger against the armrest of the pilots seat aboard the shuttle in which he was monitoring for pirate activity. There were still a few ships hiding between the homeworld and the colonies. Zadeth had been given the missing of watching over the Draconian Homeworld. He wasn't alone however as he had been joined by two others, Gilraen Tasardur and Finn Enge.

Finn walked down the length of the shuttle and sat in the co-pilots seat. "Time to report in," he said.

Zadeth nodded and tapped the control panel. "This is Zadeth Tyrneanea reporting," he started to say. "As of 1800hrs there have been no pirate sightings."

He sat back and watched a merchat ship pass by. This was so incredibally boring.

"I think we have a cloaked ship ot there," Finn said.

Zadeth raised an eyebrow. "See if you can contact them," he suggested.

Finn nodded and he tapped into the control panel. "We know there is a cloaked ship out there, please respond."

Earth, Imperial Palace:

“What word do we have from The Navigator?”

The room was lit by panels of colored lights lining the walls. The multi-hued spot lights shining upon the rough sculptured surface, its varied surfaces picking up different colors. The lights also moved slightly so it appeared as if the walls were breathing. The ceiling was draped in silk. The white fabric completely covered the ceiling in a soft white billowing cloud, the lights from the wall sculptures bleeding into the expanse of silk tinting it with its myriad colors. Soft lights illuminated the table at the center of the room without taking away any of the effects from the walls.

The people sitting around the table seemed unfazed by the lighting display. They had seen it many times but to someone who hadn’t been in the room before it would serve as a distraction, throwing their defense off. The room was designed with more than an artistic eye in mind.

“Well, we have been receiving live sensor data through the Space Minus Transmitter right after they emerged from the Wormhole. They have located many possible colony worlds as well as a wealth of resources upon uninhabited worlds but until today, they have not encountered any sign of sentience. Their sensors picked up readings of anomalous energy signatures in a system not far from their course. They have Uplifted and are approaching the system in an attempt to observe the source of these readings. They should be arriving soon.”

Nhur-Galladu bowed his head towards the officer, signifying his acceptance of the well spoken report.

“Thank you N’Kalnt. Keep me informed of what is happening when they reach the source. Direct the feed into my Neurolink.”

“Yes your eminence. I will do so.”

“Now, how is the progress on The Livingston’s mission?”

Another of the officers addressed the Emperor.

“The negotiations with the Thranx are proceeding as expected. When we stumbled across one of their colony worlds a month ago it was reasoned they were one of our lost colonies based on their possession of Posi-Gravity technologies. It turns out after a month of investigation there is a very distinct possibility they are a Ta’Nar colony. They speak of them “loosing their spirit” about 1500 Earth Standard Years ago. They have only had their Posi Grav drives for about a century or so. We suggested a few improvements to their design that will make them more efficient. They claimed they were inspired from ancient religious texts left behind by what we think were the Ta’Nar colony when they were recalled back to Homeworld. We are undergoing negotiations to study those texts. The Thranx Ambassador expressed desire to meet with you.”

“Yes, I will be visiting with him later today.”



The Navigator, Unknown Galactic Space:


Sir, we are entering the system. There appears to be several merchant vessels and what seems to be patrol craft or a shuttle of some sort. We have an incoming message from them.”

“Let’s hear it.”

The Comm officer issued a couple commands through her Neurolink and the Holo Projector came to life, showing an image of the ship while the message they sent was played back over the bridge speakers.

"We know there is a cloaked ship out there, please respond."

“Tactical, how can they detect us through our cloak?”

“It is because of the anomaly. It is “casting” a shadow in Real Space that allows them to detect cloaked vessels. They are detecting the shadow of our mass. I can adjust our cloak to allow the displacement.”

“No, they might take that as a hostile action. What other vessels are there in the area?”

“There appears to be several transports, mostly civilian. I am detecting a couple patrol shuttles in the vicinity but none that are close enough to pose any kind of risk.”

“OK, drop the cloak and take us to within 10 Kilometers of the shuttle.”

The 1000 meter vessel faded into view and it slowly turned towards the shuttle. No guns were detected not was there any apparent weaponry. The ship stopped 10 kilometer from the shuttle.

The Explorer Class ship info (http://balrogga.beldragos.com/explorer.htm)

“Open a Comm like to the shuttle.”

“Yes Sir, I’m ready.

This is Captain Foster of the Imperial Exploration Vessel, The Navigator.

We are from The Balrogga Empire in the Milky Way galaxy. We are only observing. We mean you no harm.

Zadeth and Finn watched as the ship appeared on screen. No apparent weapons were detected and it was at a distence of ten kilometres away from them.

"Interesting," Zadeth said. "Not local, doesn't seem hostile either."

Finn nodded, "Incoming message."

"Play it."

This is Captain Foster of the Imperial Exploration Vessel, The Navigator.

We are from The Balrogga Empire in the Milky Way galaxy. We are only observing. We mean you no harm.

"Observing?" Zadeth muttered as he rubbed his chin. "What do you think?"

Finn sat back and watched the screen. "They appear harmless, I see no reason not to believe them," he replied.

The raven-haired teen leaned forward and tapped into the control panel once again. "We are pleased that you have revealed yourselves," he said. "In this I welcome you to the Alpha Einherjer System. Why may I ask do you wish to observe us?"

The raven-haired teen leaned forward and tapped into the control panel once again. "We are pleased that you have revealed yourselves," he said. "In this I welcome you to the Alpha Einherjer System. Why may I ask do you wish to observe us?"

“We are explorers, searching for lost colonies abandoned about 1500 to 2000 years ago by our ancestors. We are looking for keys to our past and future. While we were searching we picked up energy readings from this system and came to investigate. We were going to sit here and observe for a while to determine your hostility level before we revealed ourselves.”

Foster leaned back in his seat, getting more comfortable.

“So, tell me about your nation. Nothing restricted, just the basic tourist stuff. I wouldn’t want to get you into trouble with your superiors.”

Foster relayed a command on his Neurolink

“Keep scanning them with full sensor sweeps. Also use the Ta’Nar to get Psionic scans too. We must not be surprised if they try anything. I am not worried about the shuttlecraft, it’s the possibility of other ships arriving that I will need to know about before they get here.”

“We are explorers, searching for lost colonies abandoned about 1500 to 2000 years ago by our ancestors. We are looking for keys to our past and future. While we were searching we picked up energy readings from this system and came to investigate. We were going to sit here and observe for a while to determine your hostility level before we revealed ourselves.”

Zadeth looked towards Finn. "Rather strange," he said.

Finn nodded.

“So, tell me about your nation. Nothing restricted, just the basic tourist stuff. I wouldn’t want to get you into trouble with your superiors.”

Zadeth tapped into the contol panel. "Well we can assure you there are no abandoned colonies around these parts," he said. "Our nation covers the entire planet, the population is well over four billion."

He looked over at Finn.

"We ruled by a monarchy," he then added. "What more do you wish to know?"

“What else do I want to know? I have no idea where to start or what to ask.”

Foster sat back again and carefully thought of what to ask. After a moment or two he looked up at the screen again and spoke.

“How about a fair exchange of information? I will ask you a question and we will both take turns answering the same question about our nation. Then the other will take their turn and we will both answer. Fair trade of information.”

Foster waited momentarily, creating a dramatic pause before speaking again.

“Since I asked and you answered, it is only fair I also answer it, and then you get to ask one of me.”

“Well, The Balrogga Empire first explored the stars from a small planet called Earth in the Milky Way Galaxy. We quickly expanded to many systems, turning much of the worlds we discovered that contained ruins of their previous civilizations into colony worlds. So far we have over 3 billion citizens that are ruled by our benevolent Emperor, Nhur-Galladu.”

Zadeth rubbed his chin. "Earth, one of our closest allies is there," he said.

The raven-haired teen looked over at Finn as if to talk between themselves. Finn nodded.

"Perhaps you wish to meet our King," Zadeth then suggested.

*tag*, thinking a way to enter this RP with my new Empire of Corpsac

“Only if it would be appropriate to do so. Usually there are other diplomatic meetings to be held before a leader could be exposed to an unknown alien who could be a possible threat. How about you contact your superiors so they could send their appropriate diplomatic envoys. That would probably be the best way to proceed. We will wait wherever you thing we will not be in the way. We don’t want to cause any problems or disturb anyone.”

Foster waited to hear back from Zadeth.

Zadeth chuckled to himself. "Of course it wouldn't be in person just yet," he then replied. "As much as out King is hands on when it comes to dealing with ceratain things he is certainly no risk taker."

"Perhaps we can arange a diplomatic envoy then if that is what you wish," Finn then told them.

"Then we will await word from your goverment. Is there anywhere we can set down that is uninhabited so I can give my crew a break? Something that is isolated so we don't disturb anything."

Captain Foster raised the mug to get another drink before continuing.

"Perhaps there could even be a trade in technology, declassified technology, of course. There will be no trading of secrets by either side. That is an obvious given. Navagation charts would be a possibility. Stuff like that which won't give anything secret away."

Zadeth looked towards Finn who just shrugged at him. "There hundreds of uninhabited islands or the planet," he told them.

Finn leaned back and scratched his neck.

"About the technology and navigational charts, we'l see what we can do."

"We will wait upon word from your superiors before we take any actions. Don't want to do anything that might be perceived as hostile actions."

Foster opened a channel to his Sensors Officer using his Neurolink.

"Any sign of treachery on their part? How about Psi activity? I want a report on all their activity.”



OOC:
You can post the report from my sensors. You know what you have and I don’t so you can write it better.

Zadeth nodded. "Suit yourself," he sighed and leaned back, placing his hands behind his head.

Whilst he did that, Finn was relaying the message back to control on the ground.

The sensor reports showed no sign of any treachery, it should they had weapons available but didn't appeared to be ready for use any time soon. Of couse neither of them were using any psi powers.

The Crew of the Navigator waits. They practice their drills in case the local goverment doesn't respond kindly to intergalactic explorers on their doorstep.

The ship continued to await the arrival of the First Contact team.

"We have a diplomatic envoy awaiting your arrival," Zadeth then spoke into the com. "I can send over the landing coordinates right away."

Message from The Navigator:

"That would be very much appreciated. We are ready for the transmission."

~Captain Foster

After receiving the coordinates, The Navigator proceeded to the landing site.

“Captain, we have arrived at the coordinates provided. The island appears to be deserted but there is a structure that sensors have discovered. There are a small number of people in and around the structure.”

“OK, according to the pilot of the shuttle, the envoy is waiting for us. Open the Comm.”

“Yes Sir.”

“This is the Imperial Exploration Vessel, The Navigator. We have been invited to meet with you at these coordinates. We await clearance to begin landing procedures.

Thank you.

Captain Foster
The Navigator

"The Navigator, you are cleared to land," came the reply. "We wish you a safe landing."

OOC: Mind if I join in?

OOC: This is currently just between our nations.

OOC: This is currently just between our nations.

OOC: Understood. Just wanted permission to be able to join in at a later date when I could have one of my science ships happen on The Navigator, or vice-versa. How would be up to Balrogga.

OOC: TG him.

“We have clearance to land.”

Foster carefully studied the landing site. He checked the sensor log once more before speaking.

“Take her down. Be careful not to make any sudden movements. We don’t want to spook them. It’s probably bad enough we don’t use thrusters or retractable landing gear.”

The Navigator slowly descended until the captain could make out the landing pad without using any magnification on the Holo-Projector. He took another drink from his mug as the ship slowly dropped. About 25 meters from the surface, the Ship’s Armor grew and extended to form perfectly level landing struts. A minute later the ship touched down and The Navigator became a guest of the island.

“OK, now we await word from their diplomats. It would not be polite to disgorge our crew without beginning our discussions first.”

A white elven female in a long flowing blue dress walked out of the building to greet them. Stood behind were two guards, just in case. They would wait for the crew of The Navigator to exit their ship.

Foster and the twins walked down the boarding ramp. They wore their official uniforms in an attempt to appear dignified for the official meeting of the two cultures.

Foster took a step forward, extending his hand.

“Greetings, I am Captain Alan Foster, the two lovely girls with me are Chrysta and Chrystal, my two assistants and both second in command of The Navigator.”




OOC:

Agaon, I am sorry for the delay...

The white elven female smiled and bowed politely. Noticing his extended hand, she extended hers. "Greetings, I am Lady Arabiraheal," she said, white eyes twinkling in the sunlight.

Zadeth and Finn soon showed up themselves.

"It is a pleasure to meet you."

Captain Foster bowed deeply to the Lady before him.

"It is a great pleasure to finally meet someone from your government. I must apologize for the unnecessary delay. Where would you like to start?”

Behind his back, Chrysta and Chrystal giggled. Alan turned and shot them a look. They quieted down and then introduced themselves.

“Hello, I am Chrystal…”

“… and I am Chrysta.”

“We love your hair…”

“… it’s so beautiful.”

Lady Arabiraheal smiled at them and said, "Thank you," before turning to Captain Foster. "I believe an offer of drinks inside will be an ideal place to start."

"Certainly, please lead the way."

Alan and the twins followed their guests inside. All three of them were amazed at the artistry of the decourations, especially considering they have been shipborne for several months. Elvish artestry cannot be compaired to bulkheads and blast doors. The girls could barely refrain from staring.

Lady Arabiraheal lead them into a large and lavishly decorated room, in the centre was a circle of settee's all faceing inwards. On one side, the wall was covered by a bookcase as high as the ceiling and was filled with books. In the opposite wall was a fireplace, a fire was already roaring away. Paintings adorned the other walls in between the windows, the paintings were of landscapes from around the nation and of the nations important people, including King Kurt II.

"Please, make yourselves comfortable," Lady Arabiraheal smiled.

“Thank you very much. I think I will sit by the fire. It’s been a while since I smelled wood smoke.”

Captain Foster sat down in one of the comfortable chairs next to the fireplace.

Chrysta was examining the titles of the books, trying to figure out what the volumes contained from the writings upon their spines. She picked up a couple and examined their contents, only to place them back on the shelves (in their correct place). After examining several, she grew frustrated.

“It’s been so long since I read Elvish, I cannot read this dialect.”


Chrystal meanwhile, walked around the room examining the artwork. She stopped and admired several different paintings and sculptures.

“These are exquisite. They all have the touch of a master. They must be very old.”



OOC:

I am assuming the books were written in Elvish.

Lady Arabiraheal smiled, "There are some books in Draconian and Ancient, the Draconian you will understand since it is very similar to English," she explained. She then took a book from the bookcase entitled 'The Talisman'. "This one is in Draconian."

Finn walked up alongside Chrystal. "Actually some of them are very new," he said, his eyes falling apon the portrait of the King. "Take this one for instant, it was painted only a few months ago."

Zadeth however decided to take a seat while the guards stood watch at the door.

Chrysta looked at the book the Lady handed to her.

"You are right. Draconian does resemble English. That is bizarre how the two languages could develop and still be simular, especially considering how many other languages went into the development of English. Makes you wonder if the Dragons might have had a hand in human evolution."

Chrysta got a sly look in her eye.

"Both Elves and Dragons are rumored to use Magic. Is there any truth in there, or is it all mythology?"

"I would not put it past the dragons to have steered human evolution," Lady Arabiraheal nodded. "They are wise but very secretive beings, most intelligent."

Lady Arabiraheal then smiled at Chrysta before holding out her hand, her palm facing up. She stared at her hand for a moment and a white ball of light eventually appeared.

"In Draconis Nightcrawlis, magic is widely used," she explained. "It is no myth that elves, dragon and humans can weild magic."

"Cool!! Would you like to trade some spells? I've got a ...."

Crystal interrupted her sister.

"She doesn't want to trade spells with us yet. We need to complete our first contact meeting before they can trust us."

Chrysta sighed and looked depressed.

"Please excuse my sister, she gets carried away when it comes to magic. She has been obsessed over it for years, instead of concentrating on the rest of her studies in College. If I hadn't taken a couple of her tests, she would not be here."

Chrystal turned back to Chrysta.

"Now apologize to our hosts. That was rude of you."

"I - I'm sorry. I should not have been so rushed. Please forgive me."

"That's quite alright," Lady Arabiraheal said nodding slightly. "Perhaps in time, a trip to see one of our arcane arts academies could be arranged."

She then looked toward Captain Foster.

"If of course that would be alright with you," she then mentioned.

"It would. Magic is in our blood in a way because our nation would not be where it is today without it. We never lost our intrest in Magic."

Foster gave Chrysta and Chrystal a stern look hoping they would stop bothering their guest.

"When should we begin?"

"As soon as you are ready," Lady Arabiraheal said, giving a slight nod. Her eyes told how she seemed to think for a moment. "Of course the offer of drinks, we can provide any drink you wish."

Finn went and sat down.

Alan thought for a moment.

"What would you suggest? We do not know what you have to offer. Unfortunately, we will have to pass on anything alcholic, especially seeing how important the talks could be between our two nations."

From the other side of the room one of the twin's voices could be barely heard.

"Just loosen up already..."

Alan glared in their direction and sighed.

"I'll take whatever you suggest. It seems I was overuled."

"I have an idea," Lady Arabiraheal then said and clapped her hands.

In the centre of the room, a table rose from the floor. The elf clapped her hand once more, this time several mugs appeared with steam rising from them.

"Coffee, made from the finest beans in Draconis Nightcrawlis."

Alan carefully sipped at the steaming mug, carefull not to burn his tongue on the rich brown drink.

"Mmmm... This is really good. There are some people in the Empire that might pay for this, not to mention the rest of the ITH."

The twins arrived moments after hearing the captains words.

"Let me have some..."

"Is it a latte?"

Alan shot the two girls a thought.

Careful, you will make them think you are airheads. You are getting carried away.

"Did you use mundane or eldrich technology to make these appear? It was really handy."

Lady Arabiraheal smiled at them, "Simple elven magic," she explained. "The beans are grown by wood elves in the south, near the outskirts of Exetergrecia."

"Actually, latte has alot more froath to it then this," Finn told them.

OOC:

Sorry, I kinda lost track of this Thread.



IC:

Interesting, we could probably use this. You might want to consider the drink as part of a trade agreement if it can be arranged. First we need to complete those talks.

Foster took another drink of the stuff.

OOC: No worries, I'd forgotten about it until now.

IC:

Lady Arabiraheal nodded. "Of course, a small increase in production will be more than enough," she said. "Yes, let's get the talks underway."

Foster stood and signaled the twins to follow. They rose in unison while continuing the discussion about coffees. They walked over to Alan and waited.

Lady Arabiraheal thought for a moment and looked toward Zadeth and Finn. "Now where should we start," she then wondered.

The first thing we should do is get someone here to act as a witness. Either that or we record this and each keep a copy. I think recording would be the better option.

Lady Arabiraheal agreed. "It would be time consuming to find a witness that will be reliable at this moment," she said. "We have recording equipment in another room."

She then looked at Finn who then nodded and stood up, before leaving the room.

Foster and the twins followed their guests into the room where the First Talks would be held. As they walked and talked, Alan was admiring the artwork adorning the walls

Lady Arabiraheal led them into a large meeting hall, int the centure was a large oak table surrounded by chairs. In each corner of the room a camera had been placed, recording everything. In adition there were also two metallic spheres buzzing around the room.

"Is the recording equipment adequate?" Lady Arabiraheal then asked.

"I believe it would be as long as we can make an official documentition of the proceedings."

Alan looked around the room.

"Yes, I believe this will do finely."

He walks over to one side of the table, leaning on the back of one of the chairs.

"Is this our side or yours?"

Lady Arabiraheal just smiled. "Take whichever side takes your fancy," she said. "I am glad that the recording arangements are to your liking."

"Well, sooner begun, sooner done. Chrysta, run back to the ship for my briefcase."

"Yes Sir, right away."

The young woman hurried off, returning to the ship in her attempt to complete her duty. Foster turned to his host.

"Sorry about leaving it behind. It will have any documents we might need. You can scan or search it if you wish. She will be back in a couple minutes, enough time for us to sit down and get things started."

Foster pulled out a chair, offering it to his hostess and signaled Chrystal to take a seat on the other side of the table.

Lady Arabiraheal smiled and sat down. "That will be fine, it can be scanned as she comes in through the door," she said. "We do trust you though."

Zadeth and Finn went and sat down as well.

Minutes later the errant briefcase arrives along with the panting twin.

"You did that on purpose!"

She allowes the guards to scan the case, which was only full of papers and a small computer. Everything harmless.

Chrysta brought the case over to Foster and sat down. She helped herself to the refreshments after making a face at the captain.

Alan took the briefcase and opened it. He took out the computer and a folder with papers and set the case aside. Crystal took the empty case and moved it out of the way to the end of the table while Alan positioned the materials upon the table to his liking.

"Well, I am ready to begin. We can start the cameras any moment you wish.

Lady Arabiraheal nodded before clapping her hands. "They are started," she then announced. "Let us begin."

Alan cleared his throat and spoke.

“Well, I suppose I better start the proceedings properly.”

“I am Alan Foster, Captain of the Navigator. I am accompanied by Chrystal Flaurin and Crysta Flaurin, who are both acting as my sub command and also as the ship’s Psykers. We are representing the Balrogga Empire in these First Contact talks.”

Chrysta then spoke, “We are to act as witnesses…”

“… and as representatives of The Empire” finished Crystal.

Lady Arabiraheal nodded and knew what to say.

"I am Lady Ino Arabiraheal of Tiv'tun. I am accompanied by Zadeth Tyrneanea and Finn Enge, both Jedi from Wundagore Jedi Academy. We are representing the Kingdom of Draconis Nightcrawlis in these First Contact talks."

Zadeth looked toward Finn. "And we are to act as witnesses and as representitives of the Kingdom," they said in unison.

"Excellent, where would you like to start the official First Contact meetings? You are the host and it would only be polite to allow you to begin."

Captain Foster was indeed quite polite about this.

Lady Arabiraheal smiled. "I think we could start by speaking about our respective nations," she suggested. "Cultures, geography and history for now I think, how about you, how do you feel about it?"

Foster nodded.

"That certainly does seem a good place to start. It would nbe best to know who we are. Would you like to begin or shall I?"

Foster nodded.

"That certainly does seem a good place to start. It would nbe best to know who we are. Would you like to begin or shall I?"




OOC:

Are you as lost on what we should do next as I am?

OOC: Yeaa I am I'm afraid so.

IC:

"Well nation leaders would be a good start," Lady Arabiraheal. "The Kindom of Draconis Nightcrawlis is ruled by King Kurt II, it is only two years since his coronation."

"The Balrogga Empire has been ruled traditionally by Nhur-Galladu. The name is honorific and transfers to each Emperor and Emperess, becomming their official name when they take on the title."

Foster looked over at Chrysta, giving her a sharp look before continuing.

"Since the position os for life, there is no regaining the name they were born with so the change is permanent."


OOC:

Nhur-Galladu is actually the same being occupying a long line of clones that are grown to represent family members. He transfers to each when it is time to reture the latest incarnation. Recient changes that have occurred after these talks have started led to the disuse of the clones and using a projection instead.

Chrysta made a comment to Foster using telepathy (Psionic) and he replied.

"An interesting form of leadership, very different to our kings I imagine," Lady Arabiraheal then said. "Our current royal bloodline can be traced back over thirty thousand years, in that time they've had their faire share of tradgedy and uprising. Only two years ago did Draconis Nightcrawlis free itself from an eight year terror under an evil being."

"We are actually from an ancient Empire but our ship was crashed upon a world where only magic worked. It completely smothered all forms of high technology. We were forced to live among the natives of that world, a primitive shamanistic society that practiced ritualistic magic."

"We had to learn their ways of power over the next 950 years, slowly forming an empire of our own. The new nation was named after the ship and the captain was proclaimed the Emperor."

"That is how the colony ship Bal’RoGga was to become the Balrogga Empire and Nhur-Galladu our Emperor."

"The islands where the ship crashed were thankfully deserted so we could live in peace. We used this chain of islands as our lands and over the centuries developed the native’s magic to such a high degree that we were able to TransLocate the entire island chain to another world named Terra circling a yellow star named Sol."

"We arrived during a time there were a lot of rogue nations collecting nuclear arms like they were trading cards and threatening to use them. We decided we would take their technology and rebuild what we could from our own. The islands carried part of their Eldritch energies with them so we had to adapt the natives tech to function in a magical environment. This hybrid technology became a starting point for our nation to regain the stars."

"Over time the Eldritch energies faded due to their being cut off from the source but we never forgot the secrets we learned. We carried them to the stars and the new worlds we discovered in the search for our homes we lost so long ago."

"That pretty much brings us to here."

Foster took a deep drink of the refreshments, his throat dry after that history lecture.

Lady Arabiraheal rubbed her chin. "Finding ones origin is a daunting task is it not," she said. "Even our historians are at odds to our origins, elves and humans most likely coming from different origins."

She managed a smile.

"If there is anything we can do to help you, do not hesitate to ask."

"So far we have been searching for worlds with ruins that might yeild answers or at least a direction. We do not know if we are even in the right universe but we have to keep searching."

"When the Great Enchantment was used to TransLocate us, we have no idea where we ended up in relation to the planet we crashed upon. We can only continue searching in hopes we can find something."

"We thank you for your offer to assist us. The Quest is one of the reasons we came to this galaxy you dwell within, hoping there might be a clue burried in some ruins somewhere."

"You could just be closer than you think," Lady Arabiraheal then said. "We know of many ruins on other planets and our archeologists have been working flat out to discover their secrets. Perhaps they are of interest to you."

Zadeth and Finn quietly watched as Lady Arabiraheal spoke.

"We have found some traces in the Milky Way but the systems were either damaged too greatly over time or the relevant data was deleted from the systems. We even found a example of our organic engineering but again, the relevant data was apparently Mindwiped from its core."

Lady Arabiraheal could see a look of disappointment in Foster’s eyes. The look seemed to be mirrored in the twins too.

“Yeah, they really covered their tracks when they left. We’ve been searching for hundreds of years so far.”

Chrysta seemed as if she didn’t realize she had spoken out loud.

Lady Arabiraheal noted their disappointment.

"I'm sorry to hear that your efforts so far have been fruitless," she then said. "Some ruins that we have found have been buried under sand and time, likely preserving most of what secrets they have."

"They would be worth investigating."

Foster seemed a little hopeful.

"The problem is we don't even know what timeframe to look for because it is not known if the Great Enchantment transported us only in space. We might be in our own future or in our distant past. The stuff we already found was ravaged by time so we can only guess we are in our future, unless those locations are part of Balrogga past. The whole temporal thing is very confusing, that is why we avoid the tech entirely, other than some effects in our sheilding."

Alan took another drink and continued.

"So, what can the Empire do for your nation?"

Lady Arabiraheal nodded. "A rather confusing dilema I see," she said.

She took a sip of her drink before continuing.

"Draconis Nightcrawlis is always looking for new trade opportunities and cultural exchanges. With that, also good relations with other nations as peace is the best way to go."

Alan looked up and smiled.

"If you want trade contacts, boy do I have them for you."

"A number of years ago the Empire constructed a network of wormholes that they used for trade. They offered it to other nations to use strictly for civilian purposes. There are over 100 other nations the last I heard that wanted to be members of the system.”

Foster picked up a padd from the briefcase he sent one of the twins after and after typing in some commands, handed it over to Lady Arabiraheal.



OOC:

The info on the padd is basically the same as in the first post of this Thread

http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=422493

Lady Arabiraheal took the pad and smiled before reading over it. For a few moments she silently read the information, nodding to herself.

"Very good," she said. "I'll have to pass this onto the relevent departments and of course His Majesty, but I am sure there will certainly be a request forthcoming to join."

“The ITH is only an option that you might consider. Nothing depends upon your deciding with joining.”

Foster took another drink.

“Is there anything else we can assist with?”

He placed the glass on the table and refilled it again.

"Well trade is now covered and is an extremely interesting option," Lady Arabiraheal. "So, are you happy with the trade?"

"It seems to be satisfactory. You help us locate ruins and we connect you with the rest of the ITH members. The only problem is we would have done that anyway so it doesn't seem like we are doing anything special to help you. Is there anything else we could asist you with?"

"Of course there would be the traditional Embassy exchanges. You will be able to send one to Earth at your first convienance. It would also be convienant to be able to set up something in this galaxy to act as a central base that can be used for exploration and repairs, as well as a local trade network for possible civilians that might want to start out fresh here. This would of course be established outside your territories so as not to infringe upon your own sovernity"

Foster took another drink before continuing.

"Tell me what dangers might face both the exploration ships as well as any civilians that chose to come over here."

"Ah yes, embassies," Lady Arabiraheal nodded. "We have a perfect area in Embassy Square, keeping the embassies rather more secure. You are quite welcome to inspect"

Lady Arabiraheal calmly took a sip of her drink before explaining the dangers.

"Well out in space there are often pirates, that is what Zadeth and Finn here were looking out for when you made contact."

She sighed.

"Down here planetside there are a whole host of natural and unnatural dangers, like anywhere else we have our problems with crime. However we also have rather nasty monsters roaming the wilderness and within the cities are vampires amongst other things."

Chrystal giggled when she heard the word vampire. Foster shot her a look that made her stifle herself.

"My apologies, she should remember where we are. She was not laughing at you or the fact you have vampires, she was chuckling because we are not very appetizing to them."

"In our travels we have met other nations that not only had vampire problems, but the nation was actually populated by them. CorpSac had an element of vampirism in their citizens, DLE was actually undergoing a transformation where vampires were becoming part of their society and we assisted their acclimation, and the others I cannot think of at the top of my head."

“The establishment of an Embassy would be something we should do immediately after this meeting. I will send a request with the copy of these proceedings asking one be sent as soon as possible. Most likely it will be here within a matter of hours to days at the most.”

“I don’t think we will have to worry about pirates after we set ourselves up and establish a safe zone. After we show them it wasn’t healthy to bother us, they should stay away, or become extinct. Either way, it suits our purposes just fine. We have had problems in the past on other worlds and making it suicidal to attack us will eventually make it taboo to even think about it.”

Foster thought for a moment before continuing.

“What nations are in this area? Since you mentioned you have an Embassy Row, it is assumed there are enough nations to establish one. What are their dispositions and would they object to a foreign power establishing themselves in their neighborhood? Are there any unclaimed or neutral systems we could set up shop?”

"The vampires only tend to be a problem if you go to the wrong areas," Lady Arabiraheal assured them. "And fortunately we do keep pirate attacks as low as possible, I believe we are turning the tide against them."

She leaned over and tapped something into the computer in front of her. Turning the screen around so that they were able to see it she said, "This is a list of the nations whom currently have embassies within our nation."

OOC:

http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=9795216&postcount=2

OOC:

RL and just plain loosing track of this Thread has caused the First Contact Talks to be forgotten. I would like to resolve this in some way, even if we use Fluid Time to say the talks were completed. I would also like to use the ship and crew to continue exploring the new Galaxy (GE) I have entered.

If there are any nations in the GE galaxy that would like to encounter The Navigator and her crew, please post here.

OOC:

Sure, that's good with me.

The Tylax system was on the fringe of Imperial controlled territory, bordering wasteland and civilisation the local garrison force and her ships of war were often hard placed for something to do. Despite the terrorising tails of barbarians and great hordes of destruction nestled safely within the unavigated regions of lands outside the order of Imperial dominion, there was rarely a border raid from either side.

The Empire was expanding, but sadly to the local populations dismay it was on the other side of the Galaxy, the colonial boom from Coruscant nestling safely within the Madross sector and the Galactic south. Some ships and explorers had even come to call Endor their home. The Galaxy was indeed shrinking.

So when an unknown ship arrived within the system there was of course a general arousal of curiosity, it's not often that dead end officers get something remotely important to do. But today was one of these days and excitement throbbed through the upper ranks of a traditionally restrained establishment.

Assuming command of the operation, political officer Tylian Maxos dispatched the traditional greeting, in the name of the empire!

Greetings from the beloved Emperor Incarnate Lord Palpatine. State your reason your purpose here, are you friend or foe?

The Navigator Emerged from T-Space and settled into Real Space outside the edge of the system. Aboard the explorer class vessel, Captain Foster was accessing the sensor readings.

“Hold position here so we can get our bearings. I also want these reading confirmed.”

Chrysta entered the bridge from the lift.

“What have we got?”

“Long Range sensors picked up EM emissions from this system. We approached and dropped into Normal Space to get a better scan. I might have a job for you and your sister soon if things turn out the way it looks.”

The Comm officer spoke up.

“Sir, we have in incoming transmission.”

“Place it on the main viewer.”

Foster turned towards Chrysta. “It looks like you will get something to do sooner than I thought.”

The Holoscreen came to life but the picture was dark. Foster looked over to the Comm officer questioningly.

“The signal is apparently an audio transmission, it’s coming through now.”

Greetings from the beloved Emperor Incarnate Lord Palpatine. State your reason your purpose here, are you friend or foe?

“Tactical, be sure weapons are offline and minimal shields are active. If things turn sour, I want everything operational immediately.”

“Yes Sir, adjusting the shields.”

“Comms, open a channel using the same frequency, Full audio and video.”

“Channel open and ready.”

I am Captain Anthony Foster of the Imperial Exploration vessel, The Navigator. We are here upon the behalf of the Balrogga Empire. I would appreciate it if you were to consider us friendly. We will hold position outside the System until we are granted permission to proceed further.

Foster closed the channel and waited for a reply.

The Tylax system held a modest force of two Carrack cruisers and several light frigates, which were generously spaced around the central planet. Commanding the task force was none other than a young Whillhuf Tarkin, aptly named after his much adored father. "Well captain Placil, has commscan completed their survey?" The fledgling admiral asked with the authority much associated with the Tarkin name.

"We are still compiling our data Admiral, but we hope to have a full report ready within the next few minutes, until then we do have preliminary information on their vessel." Tarkin quickly took the prepared data pad and began scouring over the information, the tight eyes and narrow jaw managing to scowl at mere hull scans. It took all of Placils strength not to release a loud sigh over the operations deck. "Admiral, Inquisitor Tylian has cleared them for political discourse, shall we hold them or send the confirmation holo greeting?"

The son of the mastermind behind the death star consulted his fathers doctrine, his eyes searched inwardly for a moment before allowing the inevitable. Like it or not, the emperors dogs had ultimate authority in this dead end sector. "Very well, send the recording, but also dispatch a full log and order request packet to Coruscant, mark it as urgent."

"Yes Admiral."

"And captain." Placil paused as Tarkin mellowed into an almost lucid tone. "I will be in my study, waiting on that report."

From the Imperial Carrack Judgement a holo and radio transmission was relayed from the Tylax citadel, if the Balroggan vessel came equipped with holo projectors they would witness a larger than life inquisitor materialising before their midst's. Blue, and hazy for a moment Tylian would appear in a crimson robe, the hood covering much of his scarred and twisted face; a sad repercussion for failing the emperor once too many a time. Equipped with a synthesised hoarse voice, he managed to croak out his message of acceptance.

"Captain Anthony Foster, we greet thee in the name of empire incarnate and officially welcome you and your vessel into Imperial territory. You have permission to take high orbit above Tylax prime, and you may further send an unarmed delegation to these co-ordinates. PACKET UPLOADED I look forward to meeting you in person and furthering the declaration of history on this the most auspicious of days."

After what seemed to be a significant segment of eternity, the Comm officer send the captain a message.

“Sir, I believe we have a reply. It is both audio and video this time.”

“Let’s see it.”

The holo-screen again flickered into life and the 3 meter image of a red hooded human hovered before Foster.

"Captain Anthony Foster, we greet thee in the name of empire incarnate and officially welcome you and your vessel into Imperial territory. You have permission to take high orbit above Tylax prime, and you may further send an unarmed delegation to these co-ordinates. PACKET UPLOADED I look forward to meeting you in person and furthering the declaration of history on this the most auspicious of days."

“Well, it certainly does seem they have taken a liking to us. We even got an invitation.”

“Let’s hope that is true, inform your sister she is to accompany us as part of the delegation they requested.”

Chrysta giggled, “We get to have fun again, cool!” The teenager hurried off the bridge.

“Comms, open another channel.”

“Yes Sir, open.”

“This is Captain Foster confirming the delivery of your data packet. We accept your invitation and will proceed to the designated high orbit over Tylax. Please expect us shortly.”

He cut off the transmission and turned to the helm.

“Follow their direction to the letter. We are not sure of their customs and I really don’t want to find out any regarding the inability of foreign captains to follow simple directions. I’ll be in my quarters preparing, send for me if anything happens.”

A short time later, the 1000 meter explorer pulled into orbit. The vessel had a distinctive look about it. The first thing that was noticeable was the utter lack of external engines. The hull of the ship was smooth and graceful from bow to stern. Projecting from the back was a retractable flight deck which was fully extended. The bulkhead doors were open with a blue energy field containing the atmosphere within.

“This is The Navigator calling Tylax control. We have achieved stationary orbit as requested. We are prepared to send our delegation as soon as you inform us you are ready.”

The Empire is order and order is always polite. The Balroggan delegation was swiftly escorted through the maw of Coruscants endless traffic, past the towering sky scrapers and finally to a gentle halt upon a landing pad of the Imperial planet itself. Passing overhead the escorting fighters darted off back towards the heavens content in having completed their duty.

Awaiting alone on the landing pad was high Inquisitor Malorum, a tall thin man, clothed in dark crimson robes. He passively awaited the exit of the emperors guests.

Captain Foster and his two aides Chrysta and Chrystal looked around with awe clearly written upon their faces. They haven’t seen suck a populated world yet. This world alone must be nearly as large as the entire Empire itself. The side of this empire must be monstrous. The shuttle landed a few moments later.

Alan stepped out of the shuttle after the ramp lowered and the hatch opened. He looked around the landing pad while the twins climbed out behind him carrying his briefcase for him. Foster sighted the tall man draped in red robes standing near the exit to the landing pad. The wind caused the robes to flutter in the light breeze as Foster approached the thin man.

“Greetings, My name is Alan Foster. I am the captain of the Navigator.” He turned slightly and gestured to the twins. “These young ladies are my aides. This is Chrysta and that is her sister, Chrystal. We are here to open discussions between our two Empires.”

"How gratifying." Malorum smiled and inclined his head in the direction that they would walk. "The Galactic Empire, as I'm sure you are aware spans millions of star systems and trillions of lives. Here, Coruscant is our capital world, a vast sprawling metropolis which descends for several kilometres to the planets surface. This" The Inquisitor pointed towards a vast peaked complex which extended from horizon to horizon. "Is the Imperial Palace. From here, the empire is governed, and is the seat of the emperor himself." Inviting the two aliens to sit down Malroum took his place in a hyper pod.

"Due to the sheer scale and size of the palace, it is impossible to walk virtually anywhere. Over nine kilometres tall from base to height, and nineteen hundred by eighteen hundred kilometres in width and length, we theorise that this is the largest planetary structure in the Galaxy at this time." The pod accelerated almost instantly, travelling through the maze of tubes and Imperial traffic.

"Times are relaxed here in the empire, we have never known such a period of stability and security, as such, the emperor himself wishes to meet with you."

Foster looked around the antechamber. The walls were richly decorated with several carvings that adorned every surface.

“This is certainly impressive. I have not seen a larger structure in all my travels. This is the second galaxy I am exploring. It must have taken years to carve the decorations on this wall alone.”

Chrystal turned toward Malorum, “Wow, the Emperor himself wants to meet us? I wasn’t aware we would be meeting Royalty, I would have dressed more appropriately.”

Chrysta just shook her head. “Chrystal, stop it. You are being melodramatic again. You are showing a bad example of the Empire.” Chrysta noticed a funny look from Malorum and added, “I meant the Balrogga Empire, not yours.”

"I am unaware as to how long it took the masons to carve the designs onto the walls, however I am aware that the work is still progressing. The palace is being consistently expanded in twine with the empires own growth rate. We expect it to be able to halt construction for a shot period of time in about sixteen years." The pod descended down a tunnel into the heart of the palace. "I'm afraid, that giving yourself the proper tour will have to wait, the emperor is understandably a busy man, and should not be kept waiting." A burst of speed erupted from the pod as it accelerated further.

"There will be some walking involved I'm afraid once we reach the throne room. It has been made large and grand to afford his majesty protection from would be infiltrators and attackers. Vehicles and pods like these are sadly forbidden." The pod came to an instant halt, the inertial dampners functioning perfectly. "Please follow me." Malorum lifted himself from the carriage and walked towards a hallway that was dark, yet glimmering.

"The sanctum of the emperors seat of power is composed purely of Obsidian stonework." His voice echoed around the vast corridor. "This very corridor, is over one kilometre in height and five hundred metres in width, or there about. When we meet his Majesty it is custom for all non heads of states to take to one knee before being asked to rise. At no point are you to show your backs to the emperor, until you have taken fourteen steps backwards." Malorum continued to labour upon the customs of the Imperial court until he and his party reached two mighty doors each stretching from roof to floor. In the centre was a vast Imperial cog engraved symbolising the endurance of the empire and her subjects. "Please stand perfectly still, you are being scanned for weapons, radioactive tracers or any devices that could harm the emperor." The great doors subsequently opened, perfectly silent, revealing a hall vast and seemingly infinite. Over two kilometres in height, the width unknown, and occupied by great pillars extending from floor to roof, the Obsidian heartland of the empire lay before the party, like a beacon.

Foster simply shook his head, “Go ahead and scan, we have no reason to bring along weapons. You will not find any upon our persons. I understand the needs for security though. We will also do our best to follow the customs you instructed us upon.”

The trio stood still as the scans were made. Their Psychokinetic bodies would register as real bodies and there were no weapons to detect. They followed their guide into the grand all of the Galactic Empire, ever treading closer to the Obsidian Throne where their host awaited. Chrysta and Chrystal were awed by the massive walls and the decorations upon the pillars lining the walkway.