NationStates Jolt Archive

Across the Federation, nation's leaders received heavily encrypted messages urging them to meet in person, via a representative or via hologram in the Yuuzhan'tar system. It was time to plan the defense of the Galactic Federation of Free Alliances. It was time to plan the defense of freedom.

The messages weren't sent by the intercept-prone HoloNet or any other signal device. Instead, each message was entrusted to a single pilot in a tiny fighter. The heavily encrypted datapad was carried by the pilot who travelled by hyperspace to his or her destination. The chances of the enemy intercepting the messages were slim. Even if they did, the encryption would take months to break without the proper keys.

Each member nation of the Federation was urged to attend the meeting with either their Commander-In-Chief or a suitable subordinate. The meeting would take place in the Yuuzhan'tar system, one of the most heavily defended systems in the galaxy, in just one week's time. Special hyperspace routes were suggested, ones not marked on any maps of the Yuuzhan Vong Empire, to prevent interdiction and interception.

Dignitaries were not just encouraged, but requested to travel with an escort and to take every precaution that their movements be secret. Should the enemy catch wind of the meeting then there is no doubt that they would go to any length to assassinate the leaders. Even with 2/3 of the Yuuzhan Vong starfleet stationed in the Yuuzhan'tar system, the full might of the ESUS would prove more than a match.

One week exactly. No sooner. No later.

The Abh Empire most likely gave the one Vong pilot the easiest mission as the nation of the Humankind Abh and that of Talaax had shared borders from times long past. Their relationship had been a strange one at best. They had been together in the Galactic Federation then seperated when the Vong chose to take up residency within the Galactic Empire but now they had returned to the Federation. During that whole time, not once had their alliance been broken even when war threatened to engulf both alliances. A bond that went beyond document or words. One that had been forged through blood and pain.

It had been one week exactly since the message was received and now the time had come for the Abh to plan and fight alongside the Vong once again. A sole flash of light in Talaaxian space as the tear in the space continuim was ripped asunder. Out from the depths of Hyperspace drifted four Paryunu destroyers, fifty Rambirds, followed by the new Mk II Rambirds, Abriel missle cruisers, Roi-class attack vessels, and following the rear of the fleet was a dark swirling mist that would only register as a cloud to normal scanners. Coming out finally into full view was Imperial Admiral Gaf'ton's flagship the Sylvanna. On board with him was Admiral Spoor along with Admiral and alliance Praetor Lord Dusanyu.

No transmission was sent nor was it needed. The Vong knew who this was though some of the ships had changed over time, but the writting was the same on the sides. All in the Abh scrypt. They waited for the Vong to signal that they were cleared to send military representatives.

The Vong pilot reached Konoha quickly and, bowing before the Hokage, gave her the message. She then read the message and sent it up the line to the rest of the Council, who chose the obvious person to attend the war council.

One week later, A classic Imperial Star Destroyer with its numerous escort ships dropped out of hyperspace at Yuuzhan'tar, a feat impossible just a few years before. Onboard this ship was Jedi Master Yanosuke Masaki, the Coredian delegate to the GFFA, much as he dislikes the job. Also with the Jedi is Jounin Uzumaki-Hyuuga Hinata (names are reversed in Konoha due to Japanese ancestry), the Hidden Leaf representative today.

They, too awaited a response from the Yuuzhan Vong.

The Vong pilot reached Earth, the MacIntyre line recognizing it as a friendly. Premier MacIntyre recieved the message whilst he was playing a LAN match of CounterStrike Infinity, and said, noting that Carla was off in Cassiopeia, "I'll go. Carla's off on business."

Jack Cortes, who was with the Premier as well, said, "I shall go as well."

The Premier then said, "No. Stay here, coordinate defense at home. I'll take care of it. And by the way, don't deadspeak when I'm gone."

Premier macIntyre then disconnected from the game, and then left to prepare his things.

------------------

The Xizang, Earth orbit-

Premier MacIntyre sat down in the captain's chair, the seargant having said, "Attention on Deck!" and called the men to attention.

MacIntyre then waved to them and said, "At ease." with some nervousness. Yeah he liked the military, but sometimes, the pomp and circumstance of it all was annoying. The Xizang was a small ship, a new Lin Biao Mark II, but for now, it was Liberty One, the Premier's ship. Not that that mattered, radio silence except for emergencies was to be maintained.

The men returned to their posts, and then, Captain Johnson said, "Comrade-Premier. She's ready to move, as is the escorts."

MacIntyre straightened himself in the chair, and said to Brandeis, "What kind of escorts?"

Brandeis replied, "Well, we have 4 Lin Biao II Heavy Cruisers watching us, and 2 Mao Zedong III Battleships. We're trying to keep a relatively low profile."

He then turned to the bridge crew and said, "Okay, folks. All call to the ships. Follow the routes specially designated. Time your Bosun Jumps perfectly, we don't want to get caught unawares. I can't say where we're going, but the helm knows."

The helms collectively replied, "Aye, sir!"

Then, the ships entered warp.....

--------

One Week Later-

Following the Premier's commands, based on the Vong message, they took one of the more secluded routes, using Bosun Jumps to decrease travel time and keeping to radio silence. They had succeeded, and in the end, they had made it to Yuuzhan'tar.

They too awaited the Vong's response.

The Vong pilot reached Bevelle after being cleared to pass threw the FTLi fields and defenses at the edge and middle of the system. Once in the captial city the pilot was escorted to the High Command where the Grand Admirals usely were. Since a new leader had yet to be picked the Grand Admirals held the real power not the council. The only one on Bevelle at time was Vector CEO and Grand Admiral Yomi. Acting on his own to keep this information from the other Grand Admirals he would go himself. He had good reasion to keep it secret he knew Grand Admiral Shishio and Albedo were up to somthing why else would their fleets have left their assigned areas leaving a gapping hole in Neo Zetas defenses. The Imperial Guard under Albedos command were also on the move redeploying to Ishbal a backwater world whos industry had been destroyed during the Crimson Corp purges. It all made little sense so Yomi being a demon decided he could only trust himself.

One week later His flagship the Winterspring and 20 Escorts exited hyperspace at Yuuzhan'tar and waited. Little did they know he know a Imperial Guard human spy one of the few humans in the Imperial Guard had used false papers to sneak on as one of Yomis aid. The Imperial Guard would stay well informed of the situation as good as they could.

Time is the demon, Admiral Karl Stapleton (http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y293/jeudesprit/trinity/stapleton.jpg) thought to himself as he completed the 394th lap of pacing the Flag Bridge of the Cerberus. (http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y293/jeudesprit/trinity/battleship.png) One week, one week is far too short a time for planning armageddon.

The simulated view port showed the swirls and streaks of semi-space going by as a hand full of crew stood watch at various stations. The ship was on alert but not at action stations. The tension, however, could be felt by all.

Dammit all. Taking three days to twist through space, hyper-space and semi-space to please some cloak and dagger types when we need every second for plans.

Outside, in the void, sixty Echo Class (http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y293/jeudesprit/trinity/ComRaider.png)escorts wove a protective net around the capital vessels: Two Pulsar Blastships, a Command Support Cruiser (http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y293/jeudesprit/trinity/Trinitydreadnaught2.png) and the Cerberus, a Gateway ship. It was the Cerberus doing the lion’s share of the stealth. It could comb and smooth passages through hyper and semi-space to fool sensors planted for early warning.


As Admiral Stapleton completed his 523rd lap, the watch came to attention and grabbed their stanchions as the deceleration claxon sounded three times. Stapleton did his usual display of bravado and stood behind his flag seat, riding out the turbulence like an experienced spacer.

The tacticals came alive with the dozen “finger five” formations the escorts broke into sweeping the area and the capital ships forming a “V” with the arms (the Blastships) swept forward and the Cerberus at the neck. The tiny Vong fighter flitted ahead as passwords and codes flew back and forth on secure line of sight communicators.

Stapleton finally sat down and ordered a Kaffe, sipping its hot course taste while awaiting landing clearances.

The outer system defensive perimeter positively ID'd the Vong ship as it dropped back to realspace on the outskirts of the Beta Aurigae system. Recognized as a Talaaxian craft, it was immediatly escorted through the system defenses by three Duke-Class light cruisers to the flagship on the inner defensive line.

On the bridge of the Sabertooth

"Admiral, we have a message from one of our ships on the edge of the system, they are escorting a Talaaxian messenger onboard. He is requesting that we send you to meet on Yuuzhan'Tar for a meeting of the GFFA."

"I can't afford to be away from the fleet at the moment, but I will send Admiral Wilson on the Xandros to speak for me. Send the message ensign and give quarters to the pilot should he require them."

"Aye sir."

One week later, enroute to Yuuzhan'Tar

"We will have reversion to realspace in three seconds sir."

The starlines turned to normal as the Aurigean delegation winked into realspace on the outskirts of the Yuuzhan'Tar system. The RSS Xandros accompanied by four Steward-Class battleships and six Sovereign-Class heavy battlecruisers moved silently towards Yuuzhan'Tar.

"Transmit our greeting ensign."

"Transmitting sir."

And now we wait, thought Wilson.

OOC:This'll be short, but I don't care, I'm being lazy

White Star Two, Uncharted System
White Star Two was on an exploratory mission on the frontiers of Minbari territory, in an uncharted system that was being explored geologically for settlements. It would come as a surprise to the Alyt on it then when a jump point opened up and a small communications probe exited.

"Alyt, a probe has opened a jump point and is of Minbari origin. It has a message for your eyes only."

"Tractor the probe into the hangars, get the datapad out of it and bring it to me."

"Yes, sir."

Half an hour later, when the technicians were finished operating on the probe, they kicked it back into space and destroyed it with the White Star's main gun.

The Alyt brought the small, palm-sized datapad into his quarters, sealed it, and opened the pad.

After reading it thoroughly, he was shocked. Minbar is under attack..and I'm not there? I should be fighting, not talking with some aliens about nothing while my people die.

God damnit..I must obey these orders..

He entered the bridge, and said to the navigation officer, "Cancel all surveys, order all probes to self-destruct, set course to Yuuzhan'tar, maximum burn."

"Yes, sir?" the navigation officer said, thoroughly confused.

"I am not allowed to divulge our mission yet, but when we get to Yuuzhan'tar, all will be known. Let's move."

"Yes, sir..."

White Star Two made a high-speed turn in space, opened a jump point, and hit maximum burn on the way to Yuuzhan'tar.

Yuuzhan'tar System

Security in the Yuuzhan'tar system was always tight. Some said unnecessarily so. But for this meeting security vigilance and measures had doubled. Minefields, spread throughout the system, had their IFF sensors disabled and were fully armed. Any deviation from pre-plotted courses for anyone would lead to certain destruction.

Fighter squadrons, based on outlying planets and moons were on full alert with at least half their number on active patrol at any one time. The turbolaser, ion and plasma cannon batteries at said bases and on Yuuzhan'tar were on the highest alert. The massive fleet presence was also on the highest alert, constantly patrolling the free-passage lanes and positioned all around Yuuzhan'tar in defensive positions. Defense stations, automated and manned, stood ready to destroy anyone foolish enough to try to interrupt the proceedings.

As Federation vessels began to arrive, each one was greeted, assigned a specific course through the minefields and warned to under no circumstances deviate from said course. All Federation vessels were told to take up high orbital stations over the Military High Command, in the bowels of which the meeting would take place.

To prevent assassination, delegates were not given quarters within hotels or villas as would normally be the case at a meeting. Instead they were to be quartered with in the High Command building itself in typically spartan Vong quarters. This was not a luxury stay, but a meeting of necessity and high importance. All delegates will be met groundside by His Eminency Lord Kunra.

Sucellan System, Near Planetary Defense Station 819

As the Vong ship passed, scanners passed over it from planetary defense stations and nearby Naval Force ships. Communications briefly occured between the Vong and a looming planetary defense station. Deeming the vessel a non-threat, traffic control directed it to a landing pad at the Tannen Palace, in Sucello City on the planet below.

---

0920 Hours Sucello Standard Time
Sucello City, Tannen Palace Landing Pad Lambda-Four-Seven

Having seen the Vong ship land, twelve Stormtroopers and a Stormtrooper officer jogged out of a small door leading from the outer halls of the palace. When they reached the landing pad, the twelve troopers split and turned, facing each other on the wide catwalk. As they waited for the Vong pilot to unhook his straps and jump down from the cockpit of the ship, the officer strode up to him and brought his fist to heart in a salute.

"Welcome, pilot. Sovereign Arbiter Viktor has been informed of your arrival. He and the Chancellory are waiting. Please follow me," the officer spoke before turning on his heel and walking back toward the door. As the Vong pilot passed, the twelve Stormtroopers marched in formation around him, protecting him from all sides.

The impressive parade meandered through the halls of the Palace, taking multiple elevators before finally arriving at their destination, the War Room. Inside the small, highly-protected room sat Sovereign Arbiter Viktor Tannen, High Chancellor Rosenthal, Minister Otzehg of Sucellan Defense, and Friedrich May, the Commander of TannenIntel. As soon as the pilot had transferred the datapad to the Sovereign Arbiter, the Stormtroopers turned about and began escorting the pilot back to his ship.

---

After watching the holomessage, Viktor leaned back in his seat. "So, not only must we deal with the looming possibility of the Ri-an retaliation, but now the very real threat of war with a powerful allegience." He sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. "I have served as the Sovereign Arbiter for mere months and I must drag the nation into war, as my grandfather and father before me. I thirst for a period of peace. The people demand it."

"That may be, Viktor," replied Rosenthal. "but perhaps full-blown war can be averted? I suggest you select two of your aides sitting in this room to accompany you at the summit. If war is inevitable, however, the Federation will likely need all the ships it can get."

Taking this into consideration, Viktor sat forward, resting his elbows at the edge of the table. "High Chancellor Rosenthal and the Chancellory are hereby granted the throne of Tannenmille and title of Sovereign Arbiter until my return. Minister Ohtzehg and Commander May, you will join me on Yuuzhan'tar."

"Fidelity sworn to the Sovereign Arbiter, on my honor, on my life," they said as one, bowing to Viktor before they all stood and walked towards the door. As they approached the door and the single Stormtrooper guard standing at attention, Viktor stopped and pulled a pistol from a holster at his hip.

"In the name of Sucellan peace and the preservation of secrecy, I sentence you to be silenced," he spoke solemnly, bringing the barrel of the pistol to the helmet of the honor guard who stood, unmoving. The guard jerked as the pistol discharged, then fell to the floor limply. "Rest in peace."

---

Yuuzhan'tar System

A single sleek, black vessel folded into the system, its engines disengaged. As soon as Navigations confirmed their location and mapped it against the fourteen previous fold locations, its engines flared and it rumbled forward, slowly. "Vong Command, this is the Sucellan diplomatic vessel arriving as requested. We request a flightplan to summit location."

"Well Admiral, do you believe we have permission to land."

Spoor's blood red lips curled back in a grin. "I imagine we would be dead by now if it wasn't alright for us to be here." She turned her red eyes on a nearby crewmember. "Prepare the shuttle for departure."

Shortly after, a small shuttle with three representatives and two armed escorts departed down to the Talaaxian surface where they were to be met by Lord Kunra.

"Well Admiral, do you believe we have permission to land."

Spoor's blood red lips curled back in a grin. "I imagine we would be dead by now if it wasn't alright for us to be here." She turned her red eyes on a nearby crewmember. "Prepare the shuttle for departure."

Shortly after, a small shuttle with three representatives and two armed escorts departed down to the Talaaxian surface where they were to be met by Lord Kunra.

The New Dornalians did likewise. Following the exact course prescribed by their hosts, they then maintained high orbit when they arrived at their destination. MacIntyre then stepped aboard a spartan Gagarin II "Slick" Shuttle, normally used to ferry soldiers to their objective, along with two Acolyte bodyguards. Then, they went to the surface, to be greeted by Lord Kunra.

Yuuzhan'tar System
White Star Two, following the course directions given to them by the Vong, exited jumpspace in the corridor set for them. The ship approached Yuuzhan'tar, and hailed, requesting docking instructions for the small Lintira flyer that would bring Alyt Morann ra Fe'enduma to Yuuzhan'tar.

Morann sat in the Lintira flyer as it left the small White Star hangar, going through the atmospheric burn of Yuuzhan'tar. He would represent the Minbari Federation in these talks, given sufficient authority and information to do so in the communications probe.

The Admiral's Pinnance (http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y293/jeudesprit/trinity/pinnance.png) dropped away from the Cerberus and accelerated down the safe corridor coordinates. Aboard were Chief-of-Staff and Joint Naval Head Admiral Stapleton and his two aides.

Sitting left seat and piloting the craft was Commander Matthew Berrington. (http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y293/jeudesprit/trinity/berrington.jpg) There was no more decorated junior officer in the fleet. With his close association with Stapleton, and the accomodations he'd receieved, it was thought that Berrington was on a fast track to the Joint Heads and possible Chief-of-Staff. For want of a better word, he was the hero brought along for his quick insight and instincts about rapidly unfolding events.

Sitting right seat was Commander Jason Savin. (http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y293/jeudesprit/trinity/savin.jpg) As much of a "hero" as Berrington, his skills ran to precise timing and plotting. His recall of detail was legendary and he held the record for the most first contacts with other galactic civilizations. He was also cursed with a sharp temper and a slightly behind the times sense of honor. Another record he held, the most duels ending in permanate injury or death in the current serving military. Stapleton had him along for both his encyclopedic brain and his deadly abilities with sword,lance and pistol.

Berrington increased speed and seemed to be streaking down to the surface.

"Strap in, sir," he said over his shoulder.
"Like hell, sunny-boy. This is a country ride compared to the old drives," Stapleton answered. He remained standing behind the pair in the hatchway of the cockpit. For the first time in over a week, there was the beginnings of a smile.

******

Outside, space couldn't hear the whoop of pleasure as the pinnance did a barrel roll with null gravity. Nor could it seek the rolling eyes from the one person aboard who did appreciate the joke. All it recorded was the rapid passage of a boat and the safe (but swift) landing it came to.

The Yuuzhan Vong pilot entered Solari Prime, finally. Recieving the transmission, President Harris and a large portion of his cabinet embarked on ships heading towards Yuuzhan'tar. Behind them came not a dozen vessels, but the entire might of the Solari Navy. With Inferno vessels defending their system, they could afford to send their forces elsewhere, and with war upon them, vessels that were fast and agile, as well as heavily armed, would be a wonderful asset during this war.

The 250-odd vessels of the Solari System Navy, escorting the private ship of their president and his advisors, disappeared from Solari space, running the wormhole routes to their allies side, and to plan for this new war...

Yomi and his aid entered their shuttle and headed down to the surfce following the other shuttles. Yomi wasnt really worried about protection as he was a S+ Class Demon and one of the stronger fighters in Neo Zeta. Tho he had lose the use of his eyes many years ago in battle he had grown four extra ears allowing his earing to be even greater then most peoples eyesight ( think Daredevil). As the shuttle landed he awaited to be greeted.

High above the world of the Vong, a crack appeared in the fabric of existence itself. Sickly energies boiled about the aperture in reality, a searign wound in space and time. The thing that emerged was not so much a vessel as an immense floating construction of absolute evil. A vast city of the dead, crackling with eldritch force, blazing with the energies of the Nether itself.

Naxxramas, Necropolis Fortress of Kel'thuzad himself, sat above the Creche of the Gods. Slowly, softly, a voice began to entone its will

Brothers. We have come. We shall discuss how best we might preserve our state of existence through the coming tumult. I am certain that such agreements might be reached as to be most pleasing to my beneficent Master, the Glorious Lich KIng

As the Star Destroyer squadron maintained high orbit, Yanosuke and Hinata headed down to the High Command via a Lambda shuttle, ready to listen to and offer proposals on the war.

Because of its unmatched portal generator and powerful scanners, Doomweaver often carried out wide-ranging patrol voyages, examining the edges of Kendaryn territory in greater detail than the Border Patrol could manage. When the great ship left the Zergin system a short time after the arrival of the message, there was nothing to indicate that it was not simply beginning one of these frequent expeditions. Garnyn Delerän and two of his military advisors had arrived with a shipment of supplies; a carefully disguised actor was busy making the absence of the King less noticeable.

Doomweaver arrived near the edge of the Yuuzhan'tar system right on schedule, and carefully followed the instructions given. Though it was the biggest vessel in the Kendaryn navy, it was not especially large by the standards of many nations, and the mighty ship was surprisingly gracefull for its size. Once it was in place, a scout vessel emerged from one of Doomweaver's armored hangers. Its weapons deactivated, the little ship carried Garnyn, his chosen advisors, and its small crew of Royal Guards smoothly to the indicated landing point.

The sleek, silvery form of the Cho'rush slid from the Nether, flanked by a pair of Mutanus cruisers. The Warchief hated these new Korialstrasz series warships. Sure, they were fast as anything - fastest ships in the fleet even - but they lacked that...something...that defined Horde vessels. He felt vulnerable in them, and that was not a good thing for one of his people.

"We be approachin da Yuuzhan'tar system, Warchief. Dey be transmittin' da course fer us ta follow."

"Follow it," said Warchief Doomhammer. He thought it highly arrogant of the Vong to call their homeworld the "Creche of the Gods". He doubted if the Aspects had even visited this world, and they were the only true "gods", if they could be called that.

One of the cruisers took the point position ahead of the Warchief's battleship. Ever-wary as they were, he made sure his technicians were taking detailed, if discreet, scans of the system's defenses. In this age, an ally could become an enemy at a second's notice it seemed.

As the Cho'rush and her escorts took up an orbit over Yuuzhan'tar as the comms officer began broadcasting the Warchief's intentions to join the conference.

Doomhammer stil would've been more comfortable on the command deck of the Org'rimma.

"We have arrived in orbit of the planet sir."

"Excellent, ready my ship."

The admiral arrived in the docking bay a few minutes later and was just walking up the ramp into his special shuttle when an aide came running into the bay.

"Sir," gasped the aide as he arrived, "A communication was just recieved from home." The man thrust a pad into Wilson's hands and waited, doubled over and wheezing.

The admiral quickly glanced over the information deleted it and gave the pad back to the aide. Turning to walk back up the ramp he hustled everyone along.

"Let's move gentlemen, the sooner we get there the sooner I can be the bringer of bad news."

Looking sideways at the admiral as they piloted the shuttle out of the launch bay, the pilots gave each other a look and then turned towards the viewscreen and guided the ship down towards the planet.

"We are receiving coordinates for the landing site Admiral."

"Good, take us down."

The shuttle entered the atmosphere and proceeded quickly to the landing site. Upon landing, Wilson strode down the ramp to meet with the Lord Kunra.

The message was received, the High Command Deliberated, and a Single Encrypted Data burst was sent back.

[INCOMING TRANSMISSION]

[DECRYPTING DATA]

/start file/

To: Talaaxian Government
From: Yukatan High Command

We must humbly apologize to the Talaaxian Government and to the GFFA as a whole. Currently we are under attack and until this intrusion into our Territory is quarantined, we cannot send anyone from our Government to this Meeting. But, as soon as the Machine Menace is beaten back we will reconnect and find out where to procede from here. Please, inform the rest of the GFFA why we are unable to attend and remember...the Machines will be beaten by Human Hands.

/end file/

/press start to view file again/

[TRANSMISSION ENDED]

[SIGNAL CLOSED]

The world of Yuuzhan'tar was unique amongst the worlds of galactic powers. Virtually untouched by the so-called machines of progress, it's surface was nearly covered with rainforests, grassy plains and cities of living buildings. Only the government sector contained any "true" technology and was the only area of the world where technology was permitted.

Kunra stood at the edge of the landing pad where national delegates were landing, watching each ship deposit it's cargo. Coredia, Abh, Neo Zeta, New Dornalia, Beta Aurigae, Gaia Rodina, Kendari, Whyatica, the Solari, Trinity Prime, Icecrown Glacier and Tannenmille. Not a bad turn out, I suppose, but is it enough to coordinate a battle plan... Perhaps... Perhaps not... Similar thoughts crossed his mind as he stepped forward with his small honour guard to greet the delegates.

Numbering only four, the honour guard were hand picked from the elite of the elite of Yuuzhan Vong warriors. Force sensitive, the Yuuzhan Vong had started to regain a connection to the Force, and trained to wield it, the warriors were among the best in the galaxy. A match for even the best of Jedi or Sith assassins. Kunra stood ahead of them, himself Force sensitive, and greeted the delegates. "Greetings friends and allies. I am glad that my message reached you without difficulty. The HoloNet can be so unreliable and I felt messengers were the best option."

He paused a moment to adjust his artificial voicebox, something evidently bothered him about it, then continued. "This meeting, as you have no doubt realized, is quite urgent. As a result of this, I believe we should get underway immediately. There is no time to lose. If you would follow me..."

He gestured to the ramp leading to the Military Headquarters building and set off with the delegates in tow. Glancing over his shoulder he added one more thing. "Also, do keep any sensitive questions or comments to yourselves until we have the benefit of the security of the Military Headquarters. Who knows who may be listening?"

Good advice. Master Yano noted as he and Hinata followed the Yuuzhan Vong into the Military HQ building.

MacIntyre nodded and said, "But of course, Lord Kunra. After all, if any of this gets out, things could get ugly." as he followed the Vong to the MHQ.

"Is that damn holo-net thingy set up with the Yuusong Vong, Commander Lock?"

"No Jorrus. It's not."

"Lieutenant, any word from them via communications?"

"Not yet High Commander."

Jorrus sighed as he sat upon the Bridge of the Andromeda. It was annoying to wait for the holo-net to connect with people whom both the Jedi and the malkir have been weary of. But, they're allies now. And security of the GFFA was needed. He decided, that as a representative of the GFFA Order, he will go via Holo-net.

The Andromeda hovered in space, shields lowered, ready to go for communications and backup to the meeting grounds.

Jorrus continued to wait for communication with the Talaaxian government.

The three Abh military leaders followed their Vong allies into their military facilities.

Excellent plan.. thought Alyt Morann as the Vong motioned for him to follow. He strode powerfully, slightly behind his Vong honourguards, and reserved all his questions and outrage for later..

Yomi and his aid followed behind every sound within miles could be heard and filted in or out by Yomi do to his hearing. He found it intresting to have the sounds of machines absent after being around them for so long.

OOC:
Coreworlds? Please check your TGs more often when someone's trying to set up an RP with you via them. It's been 3-4 days.

Wilson and his aids followed Kunra into the building, still contemplating what exactly he was going to tell the GFFA.

Following on inside, Trinity Admiral Stapleton observed out loud:

"Time indeed my gentle allies. The last information dump from my fleet is a good day and a half old. Trinity fleet deployment will reach a critical no return point within a short time. The lead units are already past that. I'd like to be able to give them our plans in broad strokes before sending more into harm's way."

The trip to the secure meeting/briefing room was a long one. The corridors of the Military Headquarters were labyrinthine, especially the deeper one got into the massive structure. Over a kilometer of hallway and three turbolifts later the delegates arrived in a massive briefing chamber meant for use by the entire Yuuzhan Vong high command.

Lined wall to wall with computers, holoprojectors, technicians, aides, intelligence officers and viewscreens the chamber was a hive of activity. A massive holoprojector well sat in the center with several rows of benches around it. Already seated around it were the 12 highest ranking officers of the Yuuzhan Vong military and the holograms of the Huntarian and Minbari representatives. Once through the door Kunra stepped aside to allow the delegates to reach their seats.

After the delegates had seated themselves, the holoprojector came to life displaying a political map of the galaxy. Standing infront of the assembled delegates and commanders Kunra spoke once more. "Ladies and Gentlemen, honourable allies, I have asked you all here in this time of great need to discuss strategy and planning in our war against the aggression of the ESUS. We must not act as individual nations. If we do, we risk cancelling out each other's advantages and being destroyed one at a time. We must act as a single united alliance."

"That is why you are here, to plan the opening moves of a joint defense and eventual counter attack. Any suggestions will be gladly heard later on, first I would like to acquaint you all with the true first move of this war. It may shock you to know that the first blow was struck by the GFFA, not ESUS. After the ESUS declaration of war the Yuuzhan Vong enacted Operation Yo'gand's Legacy and struck one of the principle worlds of Metallinauts in secret."

Kunra stepped to the side of the holoprojector as it switched focus to the world of Harvyne. "This is the world we struck. You may have heard from HoloNet news reports that a terrorist action in Metallinauts killed 20 million people. That was our doing. Only days after the initial declaration of war a small strike team of operatives smuggled a large dovin basal onto the world of Harvyne and employed it to pull the planet's principle satellite out of orbit. The resulting collision claimed 20 million lives and did untold damage to Metallinaut agricultural production. That, contrary to popular belief, was the first attack of this war."

"We are prepared to create many more Harvyne's, but we can't do it alone. The GFFA must work together to repeat the action at Harvyne over and over again. The ESUS must be made to feel the horrors of war, not just on the frontlines but on the home front as well. I propose taking the war to the enemy's worlds with small strike forces meant to do maximum damage with minimum effort. Any suggestions or other plans and reports are welcome at this time."

MacIntyre then said, smiling: "I know a few friends who could do some damage. Anybody here heard of the Shinmei School of the People's Acolytes?"

"Such senseless loss of valuable resources. You Vong lack tact, you erase worlds as a symbol, a testament. But to leave that as all you achieve, leaves you hollow. Empty" The whispering voice came from the Lich, Kel'thuzad. Having arrived he had wasted no time, and now presented himself before this war council. "Such a waste of sentients who could have swollen our ranks. This shall not please the Lich King."

A soft sigh, breath forming in icy clouds, was duly exhaled. "We would advise our brothers amongst the living that there are more subtle ways by which death may be dealt; and an enemy riven from within." Fingers, skeletal and alive with energy played over an engraved silver ring.

"We could provide the means by which entire worlds would erupt in rebellion, praising His Name. For he is the way to eternal darkness. His will is the Scourge that shall cleanse the universe of its fragile mistake, life. And create for us a paradise of purity."

Alyt Morann watched, and said, "We Minbari can support any action done by GFFA strike team members with our Psionic Corps; Lord Zhekhan himself has offered to lead Psion Corp missions for the GFFA."

The one eyed Abriel stood off to the side with his counterparts as they listened to the first strike of the war. Simply put, the manuever was impressive. Maximum damage with very little effort while demoralizing an enemy.

His boots clicked the floor as he stepped forward to add his two cents to this. "I believe both ideas should be taken under consideration. Targeting agricultural centers and military bases with these dovin basals will prevent the loss of more lives within this alliance while doing damage to the enemy. At the same time, our Lich friend here makes a good point. If we can create civil unrest for them on the homefront, it would make it very difficult to fight a war. I would also recommend tactical strike teams to take out supply depots, fueling stations, and naval yards that are accessible. The Minbarri and Abh FTLs should aid us in such an act."

Lord Dusanyu also decided to take his place. "Now while we plan for war, I would also like to send a diplomatic repressentative to the ESUS in hopes of sorting this mess out. The likely hood that this will succeed in putting a stop to a war before it escelates is slim. Still, the effort should be made."

MacIntyre then spoke to Lord Dusanyu, saying, "I agree wholeheartedly with you on the matter of strategy. If this war is to be short, we must take out enemy industrial and agricultural centers, and stir up unrest. As I have mentioned before, we have the Shinmei School, which are experts in commanding potent powers of both the Force and Eternal Divine Essence kind to do the job. In addition to that, we have our Dare Death Squads and Marine Commandoes, which are capable of dangerous commando jobs."

He then said, "But, there should be room for conventional combat, performed by fast-moving forces, obviously we are not talking about special forces raids in exclusivity, right?"

"Lord Dusanyu, the Jedi are already taking steps towards a diplomatic effort to prevent further deaths. However, it is also necessary to ensure a swift and expedient end to this conflict. Already," Master Yano glanced at the Yuuzhan Vong, remembering that they once used that technique on the long-dead New Republic. "millions die in this war. The toll will climb, for sure."

He then said, "But, there should be room for conventional combat, performed by fast-moving forces, obviously we are not talking about special forces raids in exclusivity, right?"
"That's if we wish to capture and hold a few worlds as bargaining chips." Hinata pointed out.

"This seems very much like adopting a seige mentality. An aggressive defense to be sure, but not a war winning approach. Are we then planning for a stalemate or war of attrition?

"Believe me, I wholeheartedly wish that a peace can be negotiated. But too many lives have been lost I think. They will seek a reckoning before a peace. We have to control where their response will hit and make sure at the very least that our losses are as low as possible, with the best case being a strong rebuff to make them see the wisdom of negotiating.

"But be assured... Trinity will do its part in any plan. Our Black Strike Teams are ready to move with minimal notice.

"Now as far as the negotiations, we have fully mobilized our Mercy and Construction fleets. They can be deployed within a week to anywhere. If the ESUS wish to set up conditions, we can be there to aid in any emergency. A small carrot to sweeten the pot."

"That's if we wish to capture and hold a few worlds as bargaining chips." Hinata pointed out.

MacIntyre then replied, "That might force them to the bargaining table. But, perhaps the time for bargaining is past? I agree with my colleague from Trinity Prime when I say the ESUS is moving aggressively, especially upon the Minbari Federation. They're probably thinking more about dispensing their own brand of justice than actually talking with us. Still, I'm willing to consider it, though I also would suggest turning any captured worlds into neutral zones of buffer states should negotiations turn sour."

"I rather doubt that diplomacy will run smoothly since we have struck the first blows and annihiliated an entire world. They shall now fight for something greater than honor or pride. They shall fight for vengeance. The ESUS are coming, and nothing we can do can stop them, save fight.

We must rally our numbers, brethern, we must attack and defend like unshakeable Titans. We must endure."

"Then we must plan out our offensives and defensives. What movements have we seen of ESUS so far?" Yano asked.

"Then we must plan out our offensives and defensives. What movements have we seen of ESUS so far?" Yano asked.

MacIntyre then said, "As I have said, the Minbari seem to be getting a number of unwelcome guests."

"Are they there in sufficent numbers to deliver a meaningful, decisive defeat? Or is it a feint?"

"The Horde has mobilized our entire space and ground force," came the rumbling voice of the Warchief like thunder upon the plains. He steepled his olive-colored fingers and leaned across the table. "It is our belief that this war should be handled in three parts. We must first repel the initial invasions into Federation space, then reinforce our borders, and finally take the fight to the Union. Only by going on the offensive can we put down this old dog for good!"

"Are they there in sufficent numbers to deliver a meaningful, decisive defeat? Or is it a feint?"

MacIntyre replied diplomatically, "From what I've heard, it's significant. Enough to put them on edge, and maybe even do a number. Though details from ISB are sketchy."

"Then perhaps that would be a good place to start. I suggest a strong attack force coordinated with the special forces strike in and around key ESUS staging areas.

Details: Who is better equipped to do the Hit and Run, and who has the heaviest fleets to commit while we stabilize our far flung defense lines?"

"Then perhaps that would be a good place to start. I suggest a strong attack force coordinated with the special forces strike in and around key ESUS staging areas.

Details: Who is better equipped to do the Hit and Run, and who has the heaviest fleets to commit while we stabilize our far flung defense lines?"

Sitting up, MacIntyre said, "My forces have very capable FTL, and FTLi, as necessary; our ships, big and small, all have big guns, so we can spare some forces for hit and run. Bosun Jumps, the techies call them, they can make near-instant leaps, though it takes some time to warp in, usually less than five minutes."

Sitting up, MacIntyre said, "My forces have very capable FTL, and FTLi, as necessary; our ships, big and small, all have big guns, so we can spare some forces for hit and run. Bosun Jumps, the techies call them, they can make near-instant leaps, though it takes some time to warp in, usually less than five minutes."

Jorrus's holographic image turned itself towards MacIntyre, "Same here, if not even more efficient. Both the Empire and the Alliance have addapted to the Necrominus once again. The reason why I asked if anyone wanted to purchase some drives was to help secure our approach towards enemy positions. They normaly are able to detect Hyperdrives, and Warp Drives. The Necrominus is a new thing. The only people we're aware of that can fully detect us comming in would be those with force wielders, or sphycers (OOC: SP?). The Chronosian Imperium comes to mind for chaotic sphycers. Deadly forces they are."

Jorrus's holographic image turned itself towards MacIntyre, "Same here, if not even more efficient. Both the Empire and the Alliance have addapted to the Necrominus once again. The reason why I asked if anyone wanted to purchase some drives was to help secure our approach towards enemy positions. They normaly are able to detect Hyperdrives, and Warp Drives. The Necrominus is a new thing. The only people we're aware of that can fully detect us comming in would be those with force wielders, or sphycers (OOC: SP?). The Chronosian Imperium comes to mind for chaotic sphycers. Deadly forces they are."

MacIntyre then replied, "Excellent....speaking of psykers and Force-users, do the ESUS have any we know of?"

MacIntyre then replied, "Excellent....speaking of psykers and Force-users, do the ESUS have any we know of?"

"Just the chronosians so far as we're aware of. I don't know of anyone else."

"It is my belief that the ESUS attack on Minbar is a raid; If they were truly aiming to invade, they would have started at our colonies and worked out. This is a decapitation strike, to attempt to destroy our infrastructure before we are fully mobilized."

"It is my belief that the ESUS attack on Minbar is a raid; If they were truly aiming to invade, they would have started at our colonies and worked out. This is a decapitation strike, to attempt to destroy our infrastructure before we are fully mobilized."

Jorrus turned to the Whytactian representative, "and interesting insite on recent events. Yes, this does seem to be a type of decapation strike. How to fully protect ourselfs from others, is an entirely different question."

In response to comments regarding stirring dissent within enemy nations, Lord Kunra said: "As some of you may be aware *a glance at the Coredian dignitary* the Yuuzhan Vong have always been very adept at infiltration and the creation of dissent. You may not think it by looking at myself or any of the others, but it's true. Our ooglith and gablith masquers ensure that we can pass as nearly any humanoid species in the galaxy and pass undetected into enemy systems."

"This is how we delivered the strike team for Yo'gand's Legacy. These operatives, if taken from the former Intendent caste rather than Warrior caste could easily begin stirring rebellions and other dissenting actions. With enough time and resources we could perhaps even turn whole worlds into anarchies. We would also be willing to provide masquers to others who wish to stir up dissent, although the process of putting one on is extremely painful."

In response to Trinity Prime inquiries: "The Yuuzhan Vong fleet is entirely uncommitted at this time. So far as I am aware, our fleet is larger than any other in the GFFA and rivals that off Chronosia in size and power. Would this be sufficiently large a force to commit to your hit and run attacks?"

In response to comments regarding stirring dissent within enemy nations, Lord Kunra said: "As some of you may be aware *a glance at the Coredian dignitary* the Yuuzhan Vong have always been very adept at infiltration and the creation of dissent. You may not think it by looking at myself or any of the others, but it's true. Our ooglith and gablith masquers ensure that we can pass as nearly any humanoid species in the galaxy and pass undetected into enemy systems."


"I've seen some holodeck recordings of the infiltrations. Almost scary"


In response to Trinity Prime inquiries: "The Yuuzhan Vong fleet is entirely uncommitted at this time. So far as I am aware, our fleet is larger than any other in the GFFA and rivals that off Chronosia in size and power. Would this be sufficiently large a force to commit to your hit and run attacks?"

"Our fleet isn't very large, however, we're currently working on ways of making us more scientifically advanced to help accomidate for a small fleet. We do, however, have two new technologies which should help us in the assaults against the ESUS. Seismic Torpetoes, and Peircing Shields.

The Seismic Torpetoes were addapted from the infamous bounty hunter Jango Fett, used on a Jedi by the name of Kenobi, If my memory serves correctly. We addapted Fett's maneuver into fully fledged torpetoes and missiles. They should give us a helping hand.

The Peircing Shields we've created are meant to go on suicide runs agianst starships of equal size. Shielding can be addapted to the strength of a Star Destroyer. If we successfully ram the ships into the enemies ships, break through their sheilding, we'd have them.

On a further notice, we've recently captured some ships from the Empire. We're currently trying to reverse engineer their Ablative armor, turbolaser technology, cloaking technology, and their torpetoe technology. I have a feeling, that if we help "share" these technologies, we'd fair much better than we would if we didn't have 'em.

That's what the alliance can offer to help the ESUS invasions."

Stapleton briefly steepled his fingers in front of his mouth. Considering....

" It sounds like we have the basics of a plan here.

"One: Jorrus, your people's fleet with MacIntyre's seem to be the best equipped currently for hit and run. Your newer tech should keep your losses at a minimum. And I would like to arrange purchases of your drives. While it will proably be too late for this war, we are in the midst of a fleet rebuilding program. We might be able to do some surprises.

"Two: Elements of the Yuuzhan Vong fleet combined with the heavy Trinity units in orbit above here, and anyone else who feels secure in coming along, can be a strike force to Minbar space. We won't know for sure about the opposition, but we should be heavy enough to at least turn around and run away if it is a trap.

"Three: Our staff here can work out the gritty details of flexible defense. I think the rest of us should consider drawing some ESUS forces into a battle by interdicting a planet or two, then making a running fight to tie up as many enemy ships as possible.

"Four: I am sending out Retribution Fleet to join with the heavies of other fleets to form a ready reaction force to stabilize any sector that seems to be folding. We need to set rendezous coordinates.

"How does that sound to people? Let's tear it apart before the enemy can if it's a bad idea."

MacIntyre then said to Stapleton, with some glee, "Sure. We can give you a couple of examples of the FTL-4 Bosun Drive, our most modern edition, pro bono, with a license to copy them. It will of course, come with a Modified Non-Disclosure Agreement, meaning that you can't share the tech with aybody outside the GFFA."

Stapleton briefly steepled his fingers in front of his mouth. Considering....

" It sounds like we have the basics of a plan here.

"One: Jorrus, your people's fleet with MacIntyre's seem to be the best equipped currently for hit and run. Your newer tech should keep your losses at a minimum. And I would like to arrange purchases of your drives. While it will proably be too late for this war, we are in the midst of a fleet rebuilding program. We might be able to do some surprises.

"Agreed. We're very good for hit and run missions. As to your purchase, we'll be glad to oblige you with the drives."

OOC: Just post on the GFFA Forums


"Two: Elements of the Yuuzhan Vong fleet combined with the heavy Trinity units in orbit above here, and anyone else who feels secure in coming along, can be a strike force to Minbar space. We won't know for sure about the opposition, but we should be heavy enough to at least turn around and run away if it is a trap.


"We have several large super command ships. Two Eclipse Class Star Destroyers, and one Aphotic Class Star Destroyer, the first one the Empire created might I add.

We'd beable to provide heavy support with these ships as well as with the new Demolisher Battleships and Eradicator Towerless Star Destroyers we recently captured. We really only need two of those ships for reverse engineering."


"Three: Our staff here can work out the gritty details of flexible defense. I think the rest of us should consider drawing some ESUS forces into a battle by interdicting a planet or two, then making a running fight to tie up as many enemy ships as possible.


"Perhapse our torpetoe frigates will be of use for 'tieing up as many enemy ships as possible'?"


"Four: I am sending out Retribution Fleet to join with the heavies of other fleets to form a ready reaction force to stabilize any sector that seems to be folding. We need to set rendezous coordinates.

"How does that sound to people? Let's tear it apart before the enemy can if it's a bad idea."


"Sounds fairly solid for now. However, I'd like to inquire what would the GFFA like for the new order to handle? We're good for troop morale and support. Our vast powers will be a great advantage on the battle field. Some can even manipulate torpetoes to miss their targets."

"Perhapse our torpetoe frigates will be of use for 'tieing up as many enemy ships as possible'?"


MacIntyre chimed in, "And our new line of light vessels, the Lin Biao II, the Deng Xiaoping, among others, can help do the same. Plus, they stil use the same guns and shields as our big boys do."

MacIntyre chimed in, "And our new line of light vessels, the Lin Biao II, the Deng Xiaoping, among others, can help do the same. Plus, they stil use the same guns and shields as our big boys do."

"Excellent. They're going to be of good use in this war. Our scientists are also working on the Turbo-Arrays. Everyone here should know that Turbolasers are more powerfull than the normal phaser array, but our scientists have found a way to impliment them as arrays for our smaller ships to use. Very efficient."

"Excellent. They're going to be of good use in this war. Our scientists are also working on the Turbo-Arrays. Everyone here should know that Turbolasers are more powerfull than the normal phaser array, but our scientists have found a way to impliment them as arrays for our smaller ships to use. Very efficient."

MacIntyre loved the sound of this. "An array, eh? Sounds awesome. I'd like that for my Demolishers, we've got them on triple turrets right now, those farkers are powerful..."

Then, and angry ring from his PDA. He picked it up, and replied, saying, "Hello? This is MacIntyre, listen, I'm-"

His expression turned sour.

"Shit. How many? Thousands!? Dang....well, mobilize reinforcements, tell the JRCCC to set all MacIntyre Line fortifications-hell, all forces in general-to DEFCON 1, and watch for more of those candy-ass sidewinders. Any of them tries to touch my Triumph Bonneville, and they're dead. No, that was a refer-fine. Just stop them. Keep me posted."

He put the PDA down and said simply, "New Leningrad's been attacked by Azahan forces numbering in the thousands."

OOC: Technically, the ND v. Azaha thing's a 1v1 battle, so I won't be able to get help....

"So you are now under the knife as well, Mr. MacIntyre. Several Ne`Shatan class destroyers have not entered the fray at Midiri yet and are available to any GFFA commander who needs them. They are in Minbari border worlds, although it appears that the ESUS is ignoring them."

"So, Lord Kunra. Is the Yuuzhan Vong fleet up to a little Look-and-See? We can depart at the earliest convienience.

" Are the Imperial Axis of Neo Zeta forces going to join in the raids or the relief force in the short term? Or are you able to do both? Unfortunantly Trinity Fleet is fairly limited, so the short term is the Minbari relief force for us."

Stapleton then looked over at the Abh representatives and steepled his fingers once again...




*******
OOC: I think we should prepare RPs for the hit and run stuff. We also need to figure out when the relief force comes to Minbar and can start posting in that thread. Both of those probably are best handled by telegram or over in GFFA boards. We can post our departure orders here.

" We would be willing to aid in raids however we have a slight problem on our homefront." Yomi said with slight embarsment.

" Two of our fleets have left their assigned areas and have ignored all orders to return. They have left a rather large hole in our defensive line. As of now we dont have any ships to spare untell we can get those fleets to respond."

As the scout drifted down towards its landing point on low intensity repulsion beams, Garnyn gazed at the image of the planet below them in his viewscren.

Such a beatiful world! It makes Kendari look urban in comparison. Much like Yamir, incertain ways. I wonder if the Yamiri and the Vong could get along and appreciate each other... Hopefully the war will not reach this place.

It was a saddening thought, that this lush world might someday soon suffer the devestation of orbital bombardment.


After landing, Garnyn and his two advisors joined the other delegations and followed Kunra to the meeting room. To start with, the Kendaryns waited quietly, listening to what the others had to say.

As the conversation settled into planning, Garnyn finally spoke.
"Planning our physical defences and military strategy is worthwhile and importnat, but it seems to me that what we need most of all is information. We need to know where the ESUS is going to attack us before their ships arrive if we are to have any hope of fighting them effectively. The sheer size of our enemy means that they can send dangerous invasion fleets against us and still have enough ships in reserve to keep any raiding forces we can put together busy. Most of all, we need to know why they started this war in the first place. Once we know why they wanted to fight us, we will have a much better chance of breaking their will to continue. If they seek territory, we must see to it that they get nothing but scorched earth. If they need an ally to more firmly unite their members, then political upheaval is our greatest tool. If they seek to avenge some perceived insult, perhaps highly publicized diplomatic efforts will be most useful. Without the knowledge to direct our efforts precisely, all we can do is make this war as expensive and painfull for our attackers as possible, and they can afford more losses than we can.

"The ESUS clearly has information about our forces and locations; at a minimum, we must even the score. Who is most capable of gathering information from our enemies?"

"I believe our friend here makes a good point. Intelligence is a major key to any war effort and I believe that would be where the Order would come in unless someone can voice a more suitable solution for intelligence gathering. Also, with any war comes the desire for one to expand and claim new territory. I would not be surprised if this was a motive in their agenda as well as their complaints voiced in their last Senate meeting.

We will also be sending some of our more agile ships for hit and run attacks."

“We can approach the gathering of intelligence on several levels, I think.

“The Force users among us have some methods to aid in this, correct? And I think his grace The Lich King has even more outré methods available.

“Combine that with more mundane scouting, stealth and espionage and perhaps we can win some information.

“Trinity’s exploration and scout vessels have been quietly re-deploying since the start of the conflict…across the board and as deeply as possible…we should be getting some good intelligence from them soon but it is hard to tell. Since they are under a blanket of silence, they could have been all been blown out of space for all I know.”

"I believe our friend here makes a good point. Intelligence is a major key to any war effort and I believe that would be where the Order would come in unless someone can voice a more suitable solution for intelligence gathering. Also, with any war comes the desire for one to expand and claim new territory. I would not be surprised if this was a motive in their agenda as well as their complaints voiced in their last Senate meeting.

We will also be sending some of our more agile ships for hit and run attacks."

MacIntyre replied, diplomatically, "Would there be opposition, say, if anybody tried to expand their lands in this war?"

The Warcheif stroked his graying beard before chiming in.

"The Horde's heavy ships are not designed for hit-and-run. Our Grimtotem and Vul'jin classes might provide limited benefit, but our strength is in our cruisers and battlecruisers. Perhaps we should commit forces to the Minbar battle? It would be an honor to crush the Ee-ess-you-ess" he seemed to have a tough time twisting his tongue around those syllables "forces beneath our heels."

"Our White Star class monitors are designed for hit-and-run operations; Our stealth technology makes us undetectable by conventional sensors. We have fifty-six White Stars on deep-space missions currently not involved in the battle at Minbar, and we have nine ships in Minbar. That makes a total of sixty-five monitors we can lead raiding parties with. I've also recieved word that new enemy fleets have arrived in Midiri, believed to be of Allanean origin. Total estimates of enemy ships are about 266 ships."

The Warchief chuckled.
"Two squadrons of Horde vessels could crush the force at Midri. Say the word and they will enter the Nether."

Kunra looked at the GR representative. "I would recommend against that.... 266 ships is hardlyan invasion force. In fact, I would characterize it more as a feint, no offense to our Minbari colleagues, designed to draw our attention from the real focus point of their attack. I've mentioned this idea to the Abh in private discussions before."

"It is my belief that the ESUS is trying to draw out our strongest mobile forces. Where and for what we are not entirely sure, but there are a few possibilities. One is into a trap in which they could be destroyed. A second, and most likely, is to draw our strongest forces away from the true target. They want us to over-commit to a smaller offensive so that their main offensive can catch us where we are weakest and destroy us. I believe that we should avoid deploying major forces anywhere until our enemy's intentions become more clear."

"Indeed we have discussed such things and I find no fault with such a notion. That is why I believe that the hit and run squadrons should be rather small. These squadrons are not meant for a stand-up fight but merely to get in, hit them hard and then get out."

Dusanyu then turned his attention to MacIntyre. "We are being invaded by an agressive force who is trying to take your soveriegn soil away from you. I would see claiming new territory as your own as a form of retribution. I can say that the Abh Empire will be looking to claim territory whenever possible."

"As I've already said, I believe the purpose of the ESUS attack on my nation is a decapitation strike, to destroy critical ships such as Adronado, and cripple our infrastructure to keep us out of the war. We have nearly eight hundred ships mobilized to meet this threat, but Star Corsairs Intelligence believes that a larger ESUS strike force may be coming soon. We are aiming to capture an ESUS ship to decipher their orders, if it is possible."

Dusanyu then turned his attention to MacIntyre. "We are being invaded by an agressive force who is trying to take your soveriegn soil away from you. I would see claiming new territory as your own as a form of retribution. I can say that the Abh Empire will be looking to claim territory whenever possible."

MacIntyre smiled, "Glad to see were on the same page. I'm eager to establish a few new colonies and friendly Socialist sattelites myself."

He then said to the Minbari representative, "Siezure of an ESUS vessel would be a boon to us. My colleagues in that panicked phone call told me that we had taken an enemy spy ship already, or at least it seemed to be one....but taking a warship would be even better."

"In the early days of the Horde, long before we made contact with the Masaki Patriarch, we specialized in commandeering enemy ships and using them toward our own ends." The Warcheif sat back and closed his eyes, thinking. "Though the technology we used is old, I'm sure some of our newer vessels could be retrofitted with docking collars that will allow Horde troops to storm an enemy vessel."

He removed a small pad from one of the many nooks in his armor and placed it on the table. A small hologram appeared of a ship. It looked similar to a Hellscream cruiser in that it was raptor-like in appearance andconfiguration, but it was leaner and smaller than the famed staple in the Horde navy.

"This is one of our newer vessels. It is still in prototype stage, and only two have been built. However, with a bit of tinkering and the addition of one of our stealth modules, I think it may suit our needs rather well."

Yomi listened in about the plans for raids when his aid recived a message. He wispered to Yomi whos face became pal.

" It seems The Imperial Axis has fallen under attack by Chronosia. They seem hell bent on purgeing Neo Zeta of none human life and bringing Chaos to the humans of Zeta. It seems our battle will not only be for our nation but for our very right to live itself." Yomi said knowing he would soon need to leave and ready his fleet should Chronosia punch threw Bui's fleet over Ishbal.

Gaf'ton had been looking over the holographic image of the prototype ship. "This is troubling news. There is still a garrison force on one of your backwater worlds controlling it while your new empress assumes the throne. That also gives the Chronosians a jump point into our territory."

Another angry phone call hit MacIntyre, and before long, it's content was relevant, but much more appreciated.

He said, brightly, "Ladies and Gentlemen, it seems that the People's Navy has dealt a blow to the invading fleets; they have been forced to flee Andromeda and are trapped at New Leningrad to be captured like the dogs they are."

He then said, "Excuse me, but is there a bathroom nearby?"

The sound of a beeping clyuno distracted Imperial Admiral Gaf'ton for a moment. Surprisingly on the other end of the transmission was Lord Rahl's voice. "Admiral, I have sent Trife into Azaha space to begin in all out attack to remove one enemy from this conflict. So far the battle is going to plan and my men and I are preparing to invade what appears their homeworld. I have left Admiral Wakapale in charge during my absence."

"Very good. Hurry and finish the battle then return home."

"Yes Admiral."

The clyuno was silenced for a moment while the conversation continued on. It was interupted again when his clyuno went off again. "Admiral Wakapale?"

"Sorry to interrupt your meeting but a situation has arisen in the Socialist Republic. Reports say that they are facing a sizeable force by the ESUS and will require assistance. The relationship there is tentative at best."

"I understand. Have planespace ships ready and crewed by the time I arrive."

"Right away."

The Abriel turned his attention to those that were present at the meeting. "Sorry for all of the interruptions here but it appears that the enemy is moving faster than anticipated. Admiral Spoor and myself will return to the Empire why Admiral Dusanyu remains here to discuss our options with the Federation. Good luck to all of you and we shall see you on the battlefield."