NationStates Jolt Archive

With the war between two galactic alliances crawling into stagnation, it was now a time for the Abh Empire to pull back in and analyze. Many citizens within the Empire held Star Forces in the highest of confidence to protect them against any attack. Whether or not this was true about Star Forces, the military was taking measures to discourage attacks. Access to the Empire's realm was being strictly limited to those that were capable of space-time travel or those that were willing to traverse the maze of traffic lanes that had been setup. Layers of faster than light inhibitors had been spread throughout the systems leaving only small lanes open for travellers of other nations. These lanes were also being patrolled and defended.

Minefields had been checked, rechecked, and then added onto. Defense platforms were once a rarity for the Abh as they preferred garrison forces over anything else. Now, moderate construction was taking place in key systems to increase defense. Star Forces navy was in for an overhaul that had been ongoing for a time at a slow pace but now it would be drastic by taking the successes and failures in molding them into a solid fighting unit that would be an elite guard. Guardships, and the artillery units of the Frontlineships were officially being decomitioned for the new Abriel missle cruiser in the Symphonic fleet while new battleships were being designed and built. Only the Roth-class patrolships and the Roil-class attack vessels would remain of the original Abh fleet. Whitestars, Victory class destroyers, Rambirds, and star fighters would all remain in the fore front to prevent others from noticing the change from within. Once the Symphonic fleet returned from it's missions, it too would be dismantled save for the missle cruisers and the massive Paryunu destroyers. There had been successes in using the fleet for its brief time. A new shield system would be devised along with new weapon systems, better sensors, and using new armor. The Paryunu's themselves would have to be refitted, taking them offline for a brief time.

One of the greater changes occuring inside would be the development of a new way of travelling the galaxy. While the Abh loved their space time travel, travel of that nature was restricted to the nations of the Socialist Republic, parts of New Dornalia, and what remained of Neo Zeta. Taking to Hyperspace travel like a duck to water, the Abh had enjoyed this method of travel for many years and had grown use to it. Now something new was needed. Something better. Something that would give them an edge in commerce and war. Thus they would take what they knew of Hyperspace travel and take the dimension a step higher and create a Third Space. It would bringing the same universe even closer together than Hyperspace thus allowing their ships to travel at incredible speeds and distances.

Leading this development would be the head of Star Forces engineering and development along with one of the finer scientists within the Empire. Noline Bebaus was one of the leading researchers in dimensional technology and explorer of anomanolies in space. Niena Farlies of engineering and development looked over the blue prints of the new jump gate (http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h255/Abh_Empire/space53.jpg?t=1163799559) that was to go into construction soon. It sure was impressive and seemed destined to take months of construction, work, and reworking to make it fully functional. That was, after the way into Third Space could be gained.

The two were in the pinnacle of the old capitol, Lakfakalalae, with a glass dome completely surrounding them. A circular table occupied the bulk of the room with a multitude of chairs surrounding it. The holographic blue print flickered momentarily and then turned off. "Any word from the Emperor yet?"

Niena pulled a long strand of blue hair behind an ear. The crystals of her tiara glinted in the artificial light as her head tilted up. "Matters of state to attend to but the Imperial Admiral should be here at any moment and the Emperor will join us later."

Noline took a seat a couple of chairs to her left, satisfied with the answer. The experimentation and construction of the first gate would take place in Delmaav System which was a gaseous planetary system that had little significance other than it's mining value. It was a safe as place as any deep within the Imperial defenses and behind a wall of jamming towers.

(more to come)

Despite the city's datedness, traffic still flowed through regularly with no impression that there had been any changes. The door leading into the chamber opened wide as vassals made way for the Imperial Admiral. Gaf'ton strode quickly in, his blue cape billowing up behind him. The one-eyed admiral plopped down into a chair across from the other two Abh. "The Emperor will be meeting us at the experimental site in Delmaav. There will also be a number of Star Forces military ships in case they are needed. We will also have the assistance of the Federal Union. I believe they plan on using our gate system for the new trade consortium that they have devised."

Niena looked surprised. "And the Emperor agreed to this?"

"Not to worry. Our beacon system will be setup differently so no one can use the gates within the Empire without our approval. Plus they intend on providing power supplies to help get this off the ground. Now if you two will accompany me, we can be on our way."

The three Abh exited the capitol in small shuttle as it headed for the Sylvanna. They plunged into the Imperial sord and made their way through plane space and a short time later, exited in the Delmaav system. In the distance, a small station had been setup for research as well as for the crew members of the research and construction teams. Further off was a normal four pylon hyperspace jump gate and all around were Star Forces warships. Upon their arrival, a message was sent to the Union.

Greetings from the Abh Empire,
A day of days approaches us all as the first gate system for Third Space is now underway. Your spot among this experiment has been reserved if you will concentrate your scanners on a localized distortion within a FTLi field, you will discover the location of said experiment. A station has been constructed for ease and comfort.

Aboard the temporary station discussions were already taking place about the physics of this project. "We should use gravimetric reactors for the power supply. It's more advanced than a fusion reactor, requires no fuel, and is more reliable."

"No, the Hyperspace Tap is the only way."

"No we can't use the Tap. We haven't fully explored it's uses yet which is why noncrewed ships are the only ones that use the reactor."

"Yes but it's the easiest way of traversing dimensions."

The debates ranged well on even after three entered the room.

Torm –
0600 hours Tarren standard time

The TAS Yorktown floated in the middle of its battle group its bleak grayish brown gleaming metallic body floated in the center of a group of grey shining masses, its engines emitted a white ghostly echo behind it, its rough metallic skin gleaming in the light of the binary star that is Torm, the yellow rays bouncing off and engulfing the ominous battle ship in gleaming yellow light. It floated gently forth in to the dark shimmering void of space side to side with other masses of grey brownish ships.
In the command center of this armored beast officer stood over tactical consoles and panels, the commander of the ships sat in leather like center chair over looking his bridge, the gleaming white chrome light bouncing off of his smooth but somewhat aged face. Captain Richardson looked around his skinny body shimmering in the bright lighting of the bridge, the consoles flickered off and on switching views around him. The helms officer sat directly in front of the captain, he tapped on his rough panel taping on glassy colored buttons. Suddenly several moments passed the bridge started to get busy, officers walked in and out of lifts and ramps, there gleaming blue and brown uniforms. Suddenly a panel beeped an officer several feet from the captain tapped the panel his had fluidly moved and grasped it pressing it down.

”Captain we have an in coming transmission from Terran prime, directly from the office of Fed Force”

”Put it on screen” the Capitan said with a rough professional voice his hands grasping the sides of the leather like chair he peered over to the screen. As brown eyes panned over it suddenly flickered on and an older man in the same brown and blue uniform. The older man sat back, the marble like white and blue wall behind him gleaming with a white shimmering light; he folded his hands on his oak like desk gently placing them there and began to speak, his voice was rough and chores.

Captain Richardson, I apologize for my bluntness but this is not a cordial call, we have a mission for task force vesta, it requires you to escort a ship in to foreign space, your helms officer should be getting data on were to go, the TAS Oppenheimer is the ship you will need to escort through space, you will need to split the task force up we only want you to take five ships, it should be enough of an escort, since the area you will be going in to involves nations that are currently at war with foreign powers, good luck captain”

The captain raised an eyebrow and sighed gently his chest moving down as he exhaled ever so slightly his hands grasping the armrests of his captains chair he looked over to the helm officer who was oddly about to look back and tell him there was an incoming ship.
The officer spoke nay way, her voice smooth and her hands tapping on the glassy console in front of her, she said in a smooth clam voice while looking at the captain.
”Sir we have an incoming ship, it’s the TAS openhimer sir they are sending us a tight band transmission”

TAS openhimer to TAS Yorktown
glad to have you with us Yorktown, its not often our class of ships get heavy escorts like this , we’ll be exiting third space very shortly.

Suddenly with a white burst of gleaming blinding light a massive jump portal opened, sliding out in a warping fashion was the TAS Oppenheimer its massive six kilometer gleaming body shimmered out of the bright angelic light gleaming rays of light shimmering around its body as it suddenly closed a few meters from behind the ship, its stripped yellow and red construction rings stood tight on its hull as its slowly shimmered in front of the Yorktown. Richardson looked over to the officer and nodded gently saying in a rough commanding voice.

”Tell five ships of the fleet and the Oppenheimer that we’re jumping, engage third space jump drives”

Nodding the officer tapped a glassy console in front of him he addressed the buttons pressing them down wildly as he sent the message out. Suddenly the warlock class battle ship had begun moving slowly towards the middle of an empty patch of dark shimmering space its large long body cutting through it like a sword of death and war the engines pushing it along quickly as it shimmered in to the darkness, it was followed by a mass of five ships ranging from Olympus class corvettes to advanced modified omegas, to the Yorktown it self. Suddenly a massive bright white jump gate opened in front of the advancing fleet the masses of colors and bright white lights blinded the fleet as it rushed in on by one quickly in to third space, the bodies became engulfed in extremely bight light they shimmered ever so slightly as they rushed in with speed, the gate closing behind them leaving nothing but an empty dark void, filling what was once there.. Suddenly right over the designated meeting sight several Third Space Jump portals had opened up, ships poured from all five as they closed behind the gleaming massive battle ships, cruisers, destroyers, and corvettes, the ships floated in formation over to a rest, there engines pushing them along in ghostly pulses of white and blue, there gleaming long metallic bodies, they came to a sudden stop floating gently in the dark.
The Oppenheimer sent a message out, captain kate Anderson stood up from her chair, the bridge of the ship gleaming in a utilitarian white, and blue look. ”This is the TAS Oppenheimer, we are ready and able to assist you in gate construction, we have available components and technological schematics ready for use as well, we hope to be of some service, you may send representatives on board my vessel if you wish. Just tell us were to go and we will get our affairs in order”

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Noline and Niena took their seats at the head of a rectangular metal table that was bolted into the floor. Cushioned chairs with rollers on the legs were common on temporary setups like this. Both layed out their folders before themselves and opened to the first page. Noline was the first to begin. "Ladies and gentlemen, I see you have already begun discussing one of the predominant issues facing us in our first stage of development. We have the basic premise of Hyperspace before us. Using Quantium 40 in the early stages of development, we were able to fuel the gates. By combining four different types of energy, we were capable of creating a vortex into the dimension of Hyperspace. In so doing, we have been able to travel to other galaxies and world in short order without travelling faster than light. Over time, new energy sources have come along and we have eliminated the Quantium 40 dependency with Gravimetric reactors.

Now we seek to bring the universe closer within our grasp by creating a system of travelling that will require mere seconds to jump from one system to the next. We have the same the combination of energy only now we must raise it to a higher power of energy supply. Using more than one reactor is a possibility, but by using more than one energy reactor we increase the chance of a failure in one of those reactors. A failure like that would be disastorous to any ship travelling in Third Space and would cause massive problems and require to completely rework the beacon system. To explain this factor, I turn the floor over to Niena Farlies."

The Abh woman took a data crystal from her pocket and placed it in the reader. A holographic image of the Third Space gate and the Hyperspace Tap Reactor (http://www.b5tech.com/misctech/reactors/hypermatereactor.jpg). "During the years we have possesed the HTR, we have still not been able to measure the amount of power it is capable of outputting. Some of our ships are capable of simply phasing in and out of dimensions and still it seems we have only broke the surface of this machine's capabilities. Until now we have built smaller versions of the original reactor to power the Rambirds and I imagine we are all pleased with their performance. With years of disecting and testing, we now know that the reactor taps the gravitational waves of Hyperspace and funnels the massive amounts of energy into usable power source. This discovery was paramount in the formation of our Hyperspace tap cannons that were built on the Spirit. For the first breach of Third Space, we plan on using four gravimetric reactors. If this is a success, we will then replace them with HTR's when building the first Third Space network. It is our intention to replace the multiple reactors with one HTR reactor and utilize one gravimetric reactor for a shield system. Baring that this works, it could become a potential military target for our foes. Designating a reactor of that magnitude purely for shields will cause problems for most ships."

Down the hall, Imperial Admiral Gaf'ton was seeing to the defense of the sector and sadly, on communication duty. The fleet from the Union was on time. A holographic image was projected to the Oppenheimer displaying the middle, up of the burly one-eyed Abriel. "Greetings Oppenheimer, a science debate is already in progress on board the station and you are welcome to attend if you wish. If you have any materials or power sources to donate to this fact finding expedition, then please deposit them and any workers near the robotic arm setups."

Outside the small station, the construction of a jump gate was taking place nicely. It was far different than any jump gate that had been built previously before appearing more like a doorway than any tunnel or pylon structure. The gate almost looked like some enormous artifact.

"With the few Shadow lords within the Abh Empire that are now willing to cooperate with us from the Shadow War, we have gained some information about this reactor. The problem we now face after all of our research is whether or not we can contain the surge of power th Tap will release once we fully activate it. It's quite possible that we could blow ourselves away."

Gaf'ton took over from there. "Don't worry Farlies, we'll have the station moved well out of any blast range. Noline, how are the physics coming on your projector?"

Bebaus scratched his head while shuffling around a few glass datapads. "Sketchy at best. This is a higher form of dimensional travel that goes well beyond our own. All of this is theoretical so we must proceed with extreme caution."

The Imperial Admiral nodded his agreement. "Our copy TAP has recently arrived so we'll use that before merging the recovered TAP to the gate."

Outside the station, vacuum workers began moving a large reactor towards the gate. Once there, the TAP reactor was molded onto the back of the gate. Almost instantly energy nodes built within the device flared to life and began sucking up energy. Workers fled from the site and left the research team watching and taking notes while energy laced throughout the gate, turning it on.

Vobayrunay:

Keirn've's boots clicked off the hard floor of the docking bay in the Vobayrunay Naval Base. A hundred feet below him sat two Paryunu destroyers that had originally been on patrol in the Empire. Now after the recent engagements, some quirks have been found within the Abh fleets. Even the massive destroyers were not immune to a few bugs but these appeared to be quick fixes and would have these two destroyers back out in the action in no time. The nano steel had proven quite effective in its engagements and the military designers had decided to stay with it but other changes needed to be made. The shielding systems were being completely redone and new weapons would have to be placed on. Weapon ports such as Hyperspace tap cannons and heavy particle beams were going to replace the abundant Graviton cannons. The Gravitons would remain but a wider variety of weapons were needed. Another change was going to be the replacement of the great Electromagnetic rifle pylons. Rails were going to replace the pylons and cut back the overall length of the ship and increase its manuevering.

The shield system was the exciting part for many of the researchers. Deciding on a layered system, shield layers would focus on obsorbing all energy and then incinerating any particles which would help against particle beams and energy weapons. Missles would have hard times punching through the shielding as a lot of effort was going in to creating them. Internal defenses were being upgraded as long as the automated repair systems. Eventually it would be a new dawn for Star Forces and the human branch would be a nice compliment to the developing home guard fleet.

Keirn've smiled as he looked down at the sparks flying from new cannons being put on. One destroyer was already almost complete. "Safognum, there you are."

Keirnv'e whirled around to see a young woman standing behind him. "Ah, Deca-commander Abriel-"

"Please call me Ceilia, Keirn've."

The older Abh pushed a lock of blue hair back behind his ear while staring at the young Abriel princess. "Alright. Ceilia. What are you doing out here?"

"My ship finally finished its test phases since the old one received so much damage at the battle of Mirfak. They said it was lucky we made it back. Anyways, I was wondering if you would go on a break with me."

He looked down at the finishing destroyers before nodding his agreement.

Delmaav:
Light began streaking through its confines until swirls and the flowing script of the Abh ignited to life. A weak shock wave was expelled only jostling metal frames and robotic arms. Computers were running rampant trying to process the enormous amounts of data as the gate began syphoning off the TAP reactor until enough could be built up for an acceptable jump point formation. A massive column slid from the top and then split in two. The huge earthen columns slammed into place.

Streams of energy began arcing back and forth the two pillars until they became constant steady streams. A sigh of relief passed through the station as they had managed to achieve one hurtle and that was getting their version of the Hyperspace Tap reactor to mold with the new gate. Now came the second part as the energy stabilized, the tear between two dimensions would need to take place. All scientists and researchers there, were confident it could get past the first since these were the same reactors that powered many of their organic ships. The concern came if it would be sufficient in piercing Hyperspace itself.

The moment of truth came. All energy focused into one concentrated point and began to pull back and a vortex formed in between the pillars. It was almost the same as a Hyperspace point only mixed with green and pure white. Waves of energy seemed to flow outward and claps rang out from the station. "Well Niena, it seems your worries were for naught this time."

Her face still remained poignant and determined. The Abh woman watched from behind the glass as the dimensional point remained opened. Waves started to appear more eratic and the light from the runes and rolling lines began to fade. Realization set in and the woman's eyes widened to giant saucers. "Get away from the glass! Now! Close armored bulkheads and tell the fleet to pull back!"

There was really no hope for the workers that were too close to the gate. Energy began to fade and the reactor started giving out as it took way too much energy for their makeshift reactor to sustain a jump point into Third Space. The energy dissipitated and returned to its original point. But instead of simply going away, it exploded into a dazzling array of colors, lights, and debris as the top of the gate was vaporized in an instant along with metal works and worker bots. Vaccum workers were tossed abroad having been thrown from their stations and the shockwave even managed to toss the station around from its major distance.

Niena looked up at Noline from beneath a table. "Bring the original reactor we recovered from their Battlecrabs. It's the only power source that is sufficient."

"If it blows with that gate, we'll loose years of research and development."

"And if it works, we'll be thrown years ahead of that research. Make it happen or I'll go to his Highness if I have to."

Bebaus nodded his acceptance. "I'll have it brought out here as soon as the gate is repaired."

Vobayrunay:
An automated server came by the two officers while they were sitting at a table near a glass panel giving them a wonderous view of the blue planet below and the ships moving to and fro. Ceilia punched a few buttons and a lemonade was ordered up while Keirn've found his combination of tea lope. "I read the reports from the Mirfak battle and you were stated to have performed quite well against the odds. You acted as a communication vessel when our links were jammed and you kept on fighting even with your squad commander killed."

Ceilia turned her head to look out the window. "It wasn't much really. I was just following orders from the Imperial Admiral. Your garrison force from Safugnoff really saved us and helped give many of us a breather. Umm, why did you come afterall?"

A robotic tray came out with both of their drinks. Ceilia took her lemonade and Keirn've grabbed his glass. He watched his lope swirl around in the beige liquid. "I was looking for someone I knew but I never found her. I guess she's doing alright though."

Ceilia looked down at her lemonade and moved her straw around with the ice cubes. She looked back out the window then back up to the man. "Hey, umm, why don't you tell me what you're working on out here."

Keirn've smiled slightly. "You know must of that is classified. I can't tell you much."

Ceilia look disappointed and hurt. Keirn've took a slight sip. Still hot, and then set it back down. "Well, a lot of the ships are going to be dismantled except for the human branch. They are to continue their research and development. I believe the Council has deemed them our forward attack forces. Anyways, many of our drives are going to be inertialess from now on and we'll have new shielding systems on many of our vessels. You're attack vessels and patrol ships will still be around, but everything else is getting a new face."

The young princess sitting across from him nodded her head.

Vobayrunay:

Having finished their short break, Ceilia followed Keirn've into one of the botanical areas aboard the massive orbiting station. Trees grew and swayed in the artificial sunlight and wind. Grass rustled gently underneath their feet while they walked and a few fish jumped at the water in small ponds.

She kept a slight distance behind Keirn've while he walked, an unusual position for an Abriel who would be attuned to having certains following behind her. "...Commander, how come you don't visit Lakfakallae? It is the home of the Abh afterall and where many of our people live." Her sulken attitude still persisted.

The older Abh stopped with his hands clasped behind his back. Looking out over the pond with golden fish milling about, he silently sighed. "Princess, you know that I work for the information bureau of Star Forces and now have been elected as the head of diplomacy and intelligence for the Galactic Federation. My time is greatly spent outside the Abh Empire among races and cultures you could never phathom. We are in a transitioning phase Ceilia, and that calls me away from home so we are prepared to act should anyone seek to interrupt our transition."

She raised her head slightly but only to look out over the same pond. "What do you mean? What are we transitioning to?"

"Look at our last few Emperors, they would hardly be what you would call our typical Abriel rulers. Don't get me wrong, I have no quarrels with the royal family and they have always done what is best for the Empire and have kept us all on top. From the technology to our ideals, the Abh have changed since the beginning. Once long ago before you were born, we interacted with very few other nations in the galaxy. Mostly just with the Coredians and the Zetans. Now look at us. We have diplomatic ties with numerous races out there and even more enemies now it would seem. By sticking our hand out further and further, we have learned his is receptive and willing to offer theirs in return and who strikes back and has proven hostile. We've fought many battles young princess and have learned a few things along the way. No longer will we blindly keep striding forth to see what's out there like innocent explorers. The reformation of our military is the first step of many to becoming a stronger people and more united than in the past. Most of the offensive ships we posses are organic, allowing us to amass tremendous numbers of ships while freeing up precious raw materials for better quality ships. The Shadow War has helped our research and development divisions and has provided us new dimensions, weapons, and other technologies. Now our expanding borders will stop until Star Forces has doubled in size. Then, we will strike out to keep our home protected. Thanks to the foresight of our Emperors, we know where and who to strike out at once we are prepared. Every day more defensive platforms are built, more ships are built, the new fleet comes closer to being completed, more recruits join the ranks, and we strengthen the ties with our allies."

The revelation is something that every Abriel aspires for and wants to be a part of but this seems more to her and her limited experiences at the moment. "But what of outsiders? Won't they be aware of our actions?"

Keirn've shook his head. "With this inhibitor field up over the entirity of the Empire's realm, travel is being restricted to controlled sectors. In the event that a probe is sent to pierce through the field to scout our designs, many of our newest models are hidden in null fields allowing us to move freely. Once we are finished, we will sleep in our borders for a time and pretend that nothing is different. That is until we are ready."

Ceilia raised her head up the rest of the way and looked out over the water. "How is the new fleet coming along?"

"On time as is expected."

Vobayrunay:

Keirn've's slight "date" had ended with Ceilia returning to her ship for duty as it was scheduled to depart shortly. The older Abh well knew that she was attracted to him. Abh had a bad tendency when falling in love. Their passions would burn like the brightest star until it consumed them but Keirn've had his own burning passion for someone else and breaking a young princess's heart was not on his list of things to accomplish before turning 200.

Back at work, Keirn've supervised the final stages of the two Paryunu destroyers. Weapon fixtures were all in place. For the moment that would have to do until there was time to rework shielding and the engine systems. Then perhaps they would be the mighty ships Star Forces had once hoped they would be.

Now he was on a different wing of the naval station where the skeleton of the new Sif Agh (http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h255/Abh_Empire/Voices%20of%20a%20Distant%20Star/01.jpg) or roughly translated as the "Noble Star." A glass data pad rested on a hook near one of the many thick glass windows that kept the pressure within. His pale blue eyes read over the schematics. It was to measure right near 800 meters with a full payload. Inertialess drive, heavy shielding, advanced weapon systems and a fully interphased system for easy commanding which should also help with any jamming problems should a human ever command one. He noticed the power core of the machine as well. It seemed that no matter how the experiment on the Third Space gate turned out, ships were moving to a full-fledged Hyperspace Tap and gravimetric devices.

He let the pad fall back against the window pane as he rested both elbows on the ledge. An automatic repairing system based off the Whitestars and other organics only this time with nanotechnology which allows each ship to be crewed by less members. Only about fifty crewmen would be needed for this job. In reality, the only aspect that would limit these ships from being massed produced as well is their armor and shielding. A hybrid with the nanosteel and crystalline armor was taking precious time and cutback on the number of ships they were able to roll out. Star Forces was projecting to roll out ten ships once the first one was built and inspected. More then could be produced once all the Paryunu's were refitted bringing production up to twenty or thirty a month. The only thing needed now was the Symphonic fleet to return so that they could be broken down for their materials. It was going to be a long few years for the Star Forces navy.

Delmaav:
Weeks had passed since the Abh created Hyperspace reactor blew taking half of the Third space gate with it along with a number of vacuum workers caught in the blast. Debris still floated through space around the small research station though the Abh in the area where in no particular hurry to clean up the mess as there were more important matters to attend to. Repairs on the upper pylons of the gate had been completed and the energy viens had been reconstructed to mold for a replacement reactor.

Brilliant swirling orange vortex appeared off in the distance as a section of the FTLi had been lowered for the sole Hyperspact TAP was been ferried in by a dark and ominous ship. Largely organic like their shadow line vessels but somehow far pass what the Abh were creating. Inside it was supposed to house the only TAP that was successfully recovered during the Shadow Wars. Now, all of the struggling and fighting would either come together in one glorious moment or utterly fail setting back any research and development that had come about from so many years of tinkering and examining.

Silently gliding around to the rear of the gate, the inky black silhouette docked and prepared to unload its cargo. It was alien to anything they had created and ultimatly far superior than the mimic reactors. A large fissure jutted up from the center with deep casms in a solid bowl encircling it like a shrine. Workers used mechanized arms to move the massive reactor into place until it could be properly alligned for insertion. A large crater with receivers and power arrays had been crafted to match the designs from a Battlecrab that was still kept for research.

Noline and Niena watched from their vantage points in the station as it the great reactor was being loaded in. "You think this is going to work?"

Niena looked at Bebaus with a puzzled stare. "For a famed scientist, you sure do ask stupid questions. It doesn't matter if it works or not at this point. We know our copy is insufficiant to run a third space gate and we have nothing stronger to power it. If this original doesn't work, then we've either merged technology wrong or we will have to continue research until we stumble across something more poweful. But I would prefer that this would work myself."

Noline nodded his agreement and turned back to look out the window as the reactor was finally be inserted. Energy flowed throughout the gate as contact was made. Script of the Abh characters begin coming back to life. Now they waited to see if it would hold.

"Bebaus, Farlies I think you should get over here."

The call came from one of the technical engineers monitoring the gate's energy readings and checking for any anomonalies. "What is it young man?"

Bebaus placed a hand on the back of the chair as he leaned over to read the readings on the glass screen. "Well sir, ma'am I have some good news and some bad news. The good news is that the gate seems to be holding and the jump point looks consistent. I imagine it would be safe to send a probe through."

Niena looked over at Noline. "So what's the bad news?"

The young officer looked out the window over at his left. "The bad news is that there is something coming out."

Across the casm of space separating the small research station and the gate, a lone figure emerged from the vortex of Third space. Scanners showed that the vessel was only about 400 meters which given their estimation could easily be handled by any Whitestar present in the system. However, more bad news came from the technician as he was beginning to pick up more silhouettes emerging from the gate. Bebaus wheeled around on his heels. "Wonderful. His highness has just left leaving us without much guidance in this affair."

Looking around with Niena standing next to him, there was no one to really turn to as all eyes were mostly on them. The rest were looking at the odd ships. "Close the armor plating and contact Commander Sobach. We need to be ready for anything."

Sobach had distinguished herself in the Coredian campaign against the Sith and Imperials. Now she was in charge of her own squadron and with the absence of the Imperial Admiral, she was now charged with the defense of the area and all civilians. "Dr. Bebaus, how can I be of service?"

The holographic image of Noline flickered on screen from some sort of distortion in the area. Most likely emitting from the Third space gate. "We have unknown intities entering through the gate. I'm asking you to take charge of the defense of Delmaav."

"As this is now a military matter, I have already assumed full authority in the area. Ships are already in position for and standing by for my orders."

A slight smile appeared on Bebaus as he felt relieved of worry for the moment. "Thank you Captain. I leave everything in your capable hands for the moment."

The screen flicked off leaving Sobach to the task at hand. Her hand passed over the control column at her fingertips. A delicate nail idly pressed one of the glass buttons. "Launch all fighters."

Everywhere Abh clone pilots scrambled to their ships and fired out of docking bays to front of the formation where they acted as first line of defense. Whitestars moved close in behind for an added bit of firepower. Encircling them remained the heavier guns from Shadow cruisers to Victory class destroyers. Frontlineships prepared for a mobile mine volley while others loaded missle silos for a barrage. Ships from Star Forces dug in and bared their teeth while waiting for these new arrivals to make the first move.

More and more of the small ships began emerging until there were thirty to forty ships within the Delmaav system. Somewhere among them it was agreed that this was enough as they began surging forward. They moved slowly and deliberatly towards the front most fighters. For a while there was no sign of hostility nor was there any attempt at communication. This eerie calm was interrupted by a firey orb lobbed out from one of the foreign craft. A fighter was instantly engulfed and turned into a heap of cinders.

The fight was on as fighters pounced throwing themselves at the alien craft with laser fire and torpedoes. Whitestars darted into the forray with everything they had, throwing beams of yellow energy and white orb projectiles.

The Void fighters required several hits from the Thunderbolts before they took any damage and Whitestars had to keep their weapons trained on them before punching through shields and destroying the little things. Firey orbs were far more effective against than anything the Abh had, turning ships into smoldering ruins.

"First wave has made contact and is holding. Fighter units and Whitestar units are rotating formation and have encircled the Third space gate."

Sobach stood looking over the holographic map with her command saber thumping the palm of her hand. "I want artillery ships to prepare for a volley. Once they have fired all mines then medium class units will move in next. Relay the order to the fleet."

"Yes captain."

Great pylons raised and unfolded as the frontlineships prepared for their mine barrage. White lights danced from ship to ship as communication vessels were reporting artillery ships at the ready. Sobach's short cropped hair barely moved as she nodded head for the order to launch. A wave of antimatter mines poured and over the Abh defensive lines crashing against the invaders. To their dismay, it took several hits from a mine to bring any of their small fighters down but it was having a positive effect. With enemy numbers dwindling, cruisers and patrolships surged forward peppering the Void fighters with everything they had. Whitestars took the opportunity to push the enemy back even further.

Noline clapped Niena on the back of the shoulder. "See? Star Forces can handle anything that's thrown at us."

Niena on the other hand was monitoring the gate for its energy levels and in case anything else was coming through. She was a bit more skeptical than the scientist. "Anything huh?"

"Indeed they can."

"Then we shall see."

"What does that mean?"

Niena stood up straighter and pointed at the glass screen in front of them. "There are more coming through...and they're bigger."

Mammoth vessels from the void lugged into normal space from the depths of the Third Space gate. They dwarfed in the Victory Destroyers with their swirling mass energy in the rear and long narrow bow. Already, many of the fighters were having enough troubles with the miniscule fighters that just would not die. Now, there were destroyers or whatever in the background looming over the battlefield. Either way, it looked like trouble for Star Forces unless those vessels could be brought down in a hurry to demoralize them.

"All Whitestar units, form up at the center and push through their smaller escorts to make a hole. I want everyone else with me. We're going to punch through the hole and engage those ships as they come out of the gate. Hopefully we'll catch them off guard before they can prepare for an attack."

Sobach's chief of staff was looking at the same tactical readout as she was. "If we do that Captain, we risk exposing our rear to the enemy."

"I understand your concern Chief, and I have already gone over that assesment. Whitestars can handle the smaller ships, its the bigger ones I'm concerned about. Now, I want hands prepared for the break in the formation. Once we get our chance, put us full power ahead."

"Yes ma'am."

Whitestars pulsed forward then broke off from their attacks to reform in the center. Energy streaked forward concentrating at the center of the other dimension vessels. Diamond formations cut through enemy lines and isolated a few ships allowing for easier destruction. Once the debris was clear, the larger ships of Star Forces could move in.

"Now is our chance. All ships, maximum power to engines and head straight for the rear formation."

Hulking destroyers of the Abh pushed through the gap and even increased it as they headed for the enemy destroyers. Once through the lines, ships fanned out in a more broad formation as they advanced. Weapons powered up, missles were locked on their respective targets. All was ready for a devastating barrage that would guarantee to make these aliens pay for invading Empire space.

"Ma'am! Detecting energy surge from enemy formation."

"What?! All ships evade. I say again, evade."

Bright light began building up at the focal point of every nose on every ship. Waves of gravimetric energy screamed towards Abh ships ripping asunder their armor and pouring crews into the cold death of space. The attacks didn't stop with one blast, but came on in droves turning Abh ships into smoldering ruins.

"Damnit! Ships 2 and 3 with me. Lock electromagnetic rifles and fire at will. Weapons, prepare main cannon for firing."

"Aye Captain."

"Target the rear of the vessel."

Eight huge rounds of anti-matter cased bombs slammed into the enemy ship at high speeds leaving behind smoking holes where energy was beginning to escape. Sobach's destroyer hummed with energy as yellow streams came together in one focal point and burst forward pelting away at the massive destroyer until there was no energy left to syphon. Whatever was maintaing stability with the ships gravimetric system was suddenly gone causing the vessel to implode on itself.

"How many targets remain?"

"Four, captain."

"Don't waste anytime. Bring us in closer."

"Closer? But Captain we haven't recovered-"

"I said closer damnit! If you have troubling understanding orders then I will replace you and bring you before the ex-emperor's council on your conduct."

Gulping slightly, her chief of staff nodded his head. "Aye captain. Bringing us in closer."
-----------------------------------
Vobayrunay:
With Keirn've off attending to matters in the massive naval station, progress was continuing as planned. Three more Paryunus had been refitted and sent back out into space for duty. The first Sif Agh was nearing completion which was an exciting moment for all workers. Prototypes always took the longest because it was the first ship of its kind being built and everything had to be worked out on the first go round so other models can be placed into mass construction. They would get their chance to see if all the hard work had paid off or if it all would require more work.

No matter, there were still two more prototypes to build which were already underway. A battleship and heavy cruiser were scheduled next for completion.

"Damage to sectors 5 and 6! We've just lost engine 3 and the rear batteries are shot to hell!"

Sobach rose from her chair and walked to the railing. "Keep firing damnit! Don't stop until they're gone."

Her destroyer plunged into enemy vessels as beams of green and yellow energy streaked out cutting deep into enemy hulls. Explosions rocked both vessels and Sobach had already lost her escort craft on this run. Just a little bit longer and it should....

Collision Alert....Collision Alert....

"Captain...?"

"Stay on target. Pull power from the jump engines and feed it to all forward batteries."

Energy intensified as they closed the distance. Beams started blowing through the hull and coming out the other side.

"Captain it's gone. We have to break away."

"Not yet! It can still fight. I want it dead."

Her destroyer continued closing to within one kilometer of the ship as they poured more energy into the dying vessel. Racking its carcass with streams of hot energy. Burning it assunder closing to five hundred meters.

"Brace for impact!"

Before they could make contact with the outter hull, the last barrage finally sent the enemy vessel back to void as it exploded with a brilliance of blinding light, engulfing Sobach's destroyer. Crews lurched with every explosion as it felt like their own ship was exploding as well. Sparks flew and reports of damage came ringing up to the bridge. Finally, they passed through the explosion though there wasn't much left of their own ship.

Sobach sighed and plopped back down into her chair. "Next target?"

Her chief of staff looked nervous as he scanned the rest of the battlefield but the expression quickly changed with one of cool relief. "Final enemy destroyer has been disabled and is been dispensed with by our own forces. Enemy escort craft is being cleared away by Star Forces vessels. It seems we've held Delmaav."

Sobach leaned back and closed her eyes. "Status of the gate?"

"Amazingly, still active and holding."

"Damage report."

"Fires on all levels, we've lost one of the wings and the only weapon systems we have that is operational are our missle tubes. At the moment, only five of them work."

Laughing, the Captain wiped the sweat from her brow. "Well it looks like we made it through by the skin of our teeth. What is the status of our forces."

Her chief of staff's expression soured. "I don't think you want to know."

"Probably not if it's that bad."

Sobach sighed and then got up to work the crink in her neck out. Apparently her neck stiffened up with the rocky explosions. "Communications, contact Noline. Tell him that the Third Space gates are a success and that more can begin construction soon. As a small note, remind him to have them all defended until we know that it's safe to travel through it."

"Yes Captain."

OOC: This needed some updating.

IC:

With the success of the Third Space gates, the realms of the Empire were being linked through near instantaneous travel. For some reason or another, the hostile aliens experienced later had not shown themselves again. Still, cargo shipments had military escorts as a precaution. Defense networks were around the gates themselves as extra security.

The number of gates were expanding albeit slowly. Planets with the most importance had already been secured like D'Hara, Safugnoff, Martine, Vobayrunay, Lakfakallae, and Delmaav. Gates were expanding to other outlying planets for security and borders for fast response.

Where once were a large number of void areas to hide the newest line of fleet of ships to role out of the naval station, now stood nothing. The newly reformed homeguard fleet was now rolling throughout the Empire through Third Space and planespace out on patrols. Garrison forces had increased as well with the lull in action with the war with the ESUS. Now that activity had slown down, it was time to strengthen the forces in case attacks resumed in this silence. Admiral Wakapale was quite content with her new fleet of ships approved by Imperial Admiral Gaf'ton. It was a long line of improvements to come but for now, her only duty was securing the area of space around the Empire and checking on defensive networks around planet systems. A tedious task that required a number of codes to lower FTLi fields but necessary.

Keirn've walked through the halls of the great naval station with his hands clasped behind his back. Reports were alight infront of his eyes from the new tiara that had just been constructed making information easier to carry around. His eyes scanned over the reports concerning their nearest ally in New Dornalia along with the one planet they still maintained from Neo Zeta. It seems that the Dornalians were increasing their patrols as well, awaiting the next event in the ESUS war. A wise move by his estimation. A number of patrols from Star Forces was going to aid in the patrol between their border to double the efforts which should cut down on the manpower in patrolling one section of space for both nations.

The Abh officer turned to look out the window as another ship rolled off the assembly line. There were still no reports on the state of Admiral Rahl and his imprisonment but all assumptions was that he was fine along with the rest of the crew that was captured.

For now, war seemed a long way off to him. There were other things to worry about at the moment. Like a letter to a certain Abh woman in another nation. There was also the matter of sending out more intelligence patrols to hostile systems and other areas. No sense of letting others take advantage of the current situation. Other reports constituted intelligence reports on other nations and classified reports of other nations.

(Some time into the future perhaps beyond the events in Trailers civil war)

Time had come and gone with little in the way of war. The war between the ESUS and the Galactic Federation now only seemed to be a small part of history in the Empire's long line of violent history. Now every system was linked by a Third Space gate increasing security throughout the Abh realm. The new Imperial Homeguard Fleet was completed marking another advancement in their warships which was on constant standby, system defenses had been improved and amplified to their foreseeable efficiency, and there was not a bit of unwarranted traffic in the realm as FTLi fields were in constant use.

Imperial Admiral Gaf'ton could be supremely satisfied with his work and happily leave the position of Imperial Admiral to the next in line as he took the throne. Still, the old one eyed Abriel was rarely satisfied in his strive for order. Already the events in the Kobal Colonies were well known, not that many of the Abh cared what happened to a bunch of landers but it gave the veteran pause. The Sith hardly frightened him. They were far too predictable to be of any concern. Picking fights with weaker nations was not a means of impressing an Abriel, maybe a Spoor but not an Abriel. The lackies of the Sith were merely space particles that would fall away at a single breath even their newest recruit. Every battle the Kythons were becoming less effective and already their infamous Kython scream had proven ineffective against a genetic Abh. Such preparations for a battle were easily made.

No there was only one thing that bothered the old Admiral. He had seen their kind before in the wars with the United Mankind and the similarities between the two were striking. Xenophobics all of them. But now it was the Chaos that was coming forth once again that made Gaf'ton look to the future of his Empire. Ever calm in the face of a challenge, even smiling, the Imperial Admiral had a means of countering this force. He would make sure that the Chronosians would pay dearly for their transgressions should they ever decide to set foot in Abh controlled space.

For that was why he had called this private meeting in the Imperial captiol orbiting around its artificial sun. High above the base of the city, Gaf'ton strolled through one of the gardens listening to the sound of a brook babbling and a squirrel protesting his presence in this mock forest.

"You sent for me you majesty?"

Gaf'ton turned to see the Abh commander picking his way through the path. The Abh was undoubtedly their best spy and intelligence gatherer that the Information Bureau could field. Despite Keirn've's personal involvement in a growing nuissance, Gaf'ton was sure of where the Abh's loyalties lay.

"Yes I did Commander. Come, walk with me. There is much to discuss and little time for it."

Keirn've taking the cue quickened his step to keep pace with the Abriel.

"For a time now, we have been aware of the return of Chaos in the universe. There is not much that does not occur in space that we do not know of, as you are aware, but recent events have showed that they do not plan on entering another state of hibernation. It seems as if they are preparing to strike as far and as hard as possible into the universe on another one of their...crusades." Gaf'ton spits the last word out, not liking the religious implication.

"I am sure you are aware of the dealings of the D'Harans? That woman that leads them has been trying to make alliances with other nations to boost her authority."

Keirn've frowned slightly, not liking where the conversation was heading. "I believe you misunderstand them. They have served loyally in the Star Forces and have a great record as a ground military force. The woman, merely misses her husband and wants him returned. She looks for help in any and all places. She fears the Empire has forgotten him."

The Admiral scoffed and waved his hand dismissively. "He is Abh by law if nothing else. That Richard or Lord Rahl, as they call him, is not forgotten. We are still working on a means of getting him back from Kanuckistan. If that woman tries to force him out, then she will only succeed in getting him killed as well as any that are foolish enough to follow her."

"Then what is it that you wish to do your highness?"

"Reward them." Gaf'ton lead the commander out of the thick tree covering and out into an open grassy lawn with a number of small ponds. "The D'Haran soldiers that have normally been the backbone of our ground troops will be relegated to commanders of the clone troops. Less of their men will be called into battle giving them less casualties. I couldn't see anyone protesting that matter could you?"

Keirn've nodded his head slowly. "Yes...but why?"

Sighing, "I feel that they have served their purpose and it is time for the Empire to advance. I feel that they are in danger of falling under outside influences all for the sake of retrieving their Lord Rahl. Keeping as many of them as possible on the ground worlds, will keep them out of the way and our Empire more secure. I will not allow the influence of chaos to come to this great order that we have established. Even young Doron has met this Remiel, and who knows what influences he has suffered."

"Your highness, I think it unfair to implicate the prince in a possible coup."

Gaf'ton shook his head. "No of course not. He has made some unwise decisions but he is still young and naive. That false religion he follows will most likely be the demise of him. He spends too much time with the humans but that is something I shall fix. I will make him what an Abriel is ment to be. Harsh and cold.

But back to the matter at hand. Did you find the one I asked for?"

The commander pulled a small glass datapad, flashing an image of an elf on the screen. "His name is Estas. He comes from the same world as many of the Rangers do though being an elf, he prefers to not interact with humans."

The Abriel smiled. "Excellent. He is just what I want. You see commander, the Imperial marines will not just be a military force. They shall be the tool of the Emperor and spread his will throughout the galaxy in all of their engagements. Their constant foe will be that of chaos which they will gladly sacrifice themselves to see destroyed. That is why I have requested the fanatics of our Empire. Those most loyal, even worshiping us Abh as gods."

"But your highness, what of the clone troops and the D'Harans?"

Gaf'ton took the datapad and turned it off. "Light infantry. Cannon fodder. We can replace the clones in quick order since our facilities are still operating and I have effectively taken the D'Harans out of service leaving none to question the ways of the Imperial marines or the Emperor's will. The Imperial marines will be heavy infantry and the first step in the grand change in our ground forces. Tanks, artillery, mechanical dreadnoughts, aircraft, and even a possibly more fiercesome force that will never tire. Something that will never need to be fed or need sleep."

Now Keirn've was intrigued. "What will that be?"

"Oh all in good time Commander. Now, bring me our first Imperial Marine captain. I specifically chose this elf just to infuriate the Chronosians. I know how much they hate aliens, especially elves."

Estas was already there upon his knees when Gaf'ton and Keirn've entered the room. The elf humbled by the feat of building a garden among the stars, he kept his head bowed before the Abh. Gaf'ton, on the other hand, smirked with confidence when he gazed upon the elf. His exploits on the surface world were known to him and it amused to see the creature bowed before him. He was perfect, exactly what he wanted. Completely humbled before the Abh and ready to do whatever was commanded of him.

"Rise Estas. Rise."

"Your majesty." Estas rose to his full height equally that of the Imperial Admiral but of thicker build. His simply forest garb seemed out of place among the two Abh officers but he was happy to be in their presence. Kindred spirits of a higher order is what some of the elves thought of the Abh.

"Walk with us Estas. Do you know why you are here?"

The elf quickly took up the pace a step behind the two Abh. "Yes majesty. I was told that my service had been requested."

Smiling, the Abriel nodded his head. "Indeed it is. You have the supreme honor of becoming an instrument of the Empire, the right hand of the Emperor. The Emperor's will and yours will be one and the same. Your cause will further that of the Jade Throne and bring order to all of the universe. How do you feel about such an honor?"

Estas stood there mute suddenly haulting his walk. Confusion replaced his shocked face. "Majesty, why me? I have never served in your wars merely lived on one of your lowly planets."

Divine loyalty and selflessness. Yes, Gaf'ton was sure he was the one. "Tell us Estas, we know you have killed a number of humans on your world and that many will not venture too close to the home of you and your kind. Tell us, why did they deserve to die?"

Anger flashed through his eyes for a brief moment before controlling it in the presence of the Abh. "They were spoiling our lands. Humans have no concern for the forests or the world's they live on. I cannot rid my world of the entire human population by myself, but I can control their influence around my home. I will have no humans tainting my woods or fields."

Gaf'ton turned to Keirn've. "You see? And you were worried that he would not fit the role." Keirn've said nothing, averting his eyes.

Bidding Estas to continue the walk, Gaf'ton continued on. "Which is why you have been chosen Estas. We are similar, your kind and mine. You feel every emotion that flows through your world and will not suffer any taint to come to it. We Abh feel the same way about the stars and will not let wars and disorder plague our home amongst the stars. So while we may live in two separate realms, we are one people in this cause. There are those among other races that we see harm brought to us, your world burn, and order torn down. They infect the universe like a cancer and must be cut out before it spreads too far. You and the men to follow, will be our champions in this endeavour. Only by your efforts can this be accomplished.

Your enemy shall be Chaos as it rages its eternal battle against Order. In the end, we shall be the only ones standing. Estas, we want to make you the Captain of the Imperial Marines. You will be trained in the art of war that has not been taught to you on your world. Men will flock to the banner of the Empire as it is held firm in your fist. Your voice will be the light in battle as you rally men to the cause of Order against Chaos. Justice will follow in your wake as you cleanse worlds of their taint and false ways. Will you take this task upon yourself, Estas?"

Estas had listened to every word with wrapped attention. "Your majesty, how could I possibly refuse? My life is yours. I shall do all that you ask for the glory of the Empire and Order."

Smiling wide, Gaf'ton wrapped an arm around Estas' shoulders. "Good. The transport will send you back home to wrap up your affairs and then you will report to your military training. We will begin the long process of building this great force that you shall command in the name of the Emperor. Now go, you may bring your family with you to the capitol but the transport will be back in one weeks time."

Estas dipped to his knees once more bidding both Abhs farewell in a reverant tone. Once the elf was gone, Gaf'ton let out a sigh. "It has all begun commander."

Keirn've was not so pleased with it all but wouldn't argue. "Yes it has, but what course this will all take remains to be seen. You could very well tear down the Order of the Empire that you are seeking to protect by this one act. Do not give your new recruits too much power. Keep them on a tight leash lest they turn around to bite."

"Relax commander, they will still be under the laws of the Empire and they will be stuck on the ground. We control the means of travel between stars and our vast navy will put a stop to any uprising. We may lose one or two planets along the way, but all shall be as it should."

Keirn've bit his lower lip and decided to skip the discussion at hand for another. "One question though, how do you intend to build this new army?"

"Simple. The D'Harans still have factories for droid production and walkers. We will convert them to our needs for dreadnoughts, tanks, and terminators. Security will have to be increased but it will just appear as if we readying for war, again. Throw the droids and walkers into the light infantry with the clones and let the D'Haran commanders make the most of them. I also need you to get the blueprints to the Information Bureau. Make sure the armor will do as specified."

Keirn've looked at the glass screen on his datapad. "You really think it will stop anything short of an armor piercing round?"

"Indeed it shall. They will be wrapped in armor modelled after our warships afterall. Don't worry, they will still die in battle but this will make sure that not many have to be replaced like others."

"And this head gear. Stop mind infiltration?"

Gaf'ton sighed. "You do have too many questions for an Abh. Yes. Abh are genetically uneffected by such things for the most part. The head gear will give them mental stabilization to help resist such tactics. Now come commander, there is much work to be done before the next war."

Even now the mechanics of the machine guild were hard at work rolling armor off the assembly line for Gaf'ton's new military machine. Dreadnoughts, Whirlwind tanks, Dreadnought hellfires, Phantom tanks, and Terminators fell in line in armored store houses or into transports. Imperial Marines were being put through the most rigorous course that the Abh could conceive for training. Constantly testing the mind and body while all the while the doctrine of Order was embedded in their hearts. For the glory of the Empire was their cry and the thrill of bringing death to heretics was behind every smile on their lips.

Scouting for more recruits went out over the Abh realms and even some within the original ground forces of the Star Forces had been absorbed in the transition looking for greater favor to elevate their status. Weapons for the emerging soldiers were going through redesigns making them deadlier against heavily armored troops. The seal of Gaftonoshu, the eight headed dragon, was stamped on every last one. A long line of weapons went through the factories with rapid firing bolt rifles, flame throwers, to rocket launchers and chainswords for the sargeants.

Ever present in constant training was Estas who fought with every martial expert that could be procurred as well as studying tactics from pass campaigns along with theories for upcoming wars. His responses were becoming harsher and more effecient, a trait Gaf'ton was pleased to see developing. Soon now Gaf'ton would be ready to test out his latest creation. All that was needed was a target. It would be the first time the Abh ever took a ground battle seriously without destroying parts of the atmosphere or the entire planet. Still, that was not out the window either.