Tristan Providence
20-01-2009, 05:12
0800Z GMT July 5th Year 2045, Situation Room, Grand Empire High Palace, Menelaos Sub-continent , Planet Decimus.
Intelligence annalists and military strategist all crowded the medium sized room deep within the Imperial Palace. Their attention was fastened on a screen in the front of the room, on which a video was streaming of a foreign military base. On the screen, men could be see walking about performing their daily jobs with out the knowledge that they were being watched from high above. As the annalists continued to monitor the situation, a group of people walked into the room. Among them was a older man in a dark grey suit. His graying hair spoke of age and wisdom, and his eyes spoke of tenacity and strength. The man squinted as he scanned the image shown on the screen.
“What are we looking at?” The man said
“This image is a live stream sir, of a Commonwealth Military base in the northern part of the country. We have just received intelligence that President Piran of the former Confederate Republic has been given asylum in the Commonwealth and that he is scheduled to be staying here for a short period time. However, we are unsure if this Intel is accurate so we are looking for visual confirmation.”
“Very well, keep me informed. The Emperor does not like to be kept waiting in situations like these.”
“Understood Sir.”
The man turned around swiftly to speak with his advisors, his ID Badge swung back and fourth from its position on the upper left hand pocket of his jacket. On the ID Badge the name read Simonides Olympiodoros, Minister of Defense. Simonides- or “Sim” for short- was a very powerful man. Appointed to this post not long ago, the Emperor of the Grand Empire had entrusted him with the most powerful military on Decimus.
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Decimus is warm and tropical planet in the Photios system. The planet has 2 moons- Pelagius and Theophilus- and is over 80% water. Decimin’s lives throughout the ages have revolved around the sea. These humans in turn have become masters of it. Children from a very young age Are taught nautical terms and sailing skills Hands on. Fish are the primary food source for the people of the planet and swimming is a popular pastime. Throughout it history the planets, economic, political, and military events have revolved around the sea. Nation shave built great fleets to war with each other, and all the while more and more sailors are claimed by its deep. The people therefore have a great respect for its grace and its unyielding strength.
The history of Decimus has been a long and bloody struggle of man vs. man, and sometimes man vs. the sea. Dotting the history of the planet are many wars that have been fought for the control of the small 20% of the planet. Over 3000 years ago the human population of Decimus lived in small tribes that dotted the islands of Decimus. In the year 122 DC (Decimus Calendar) a warlord named Hallbjon Theodosius rose to power in a small tribe on the western most coast of the Hippolytos Island, which was situated at the center of the Eastern Sea. Through his new gained power, he struck out against his neighboring tribe and one by one made them his subjects. Through the sword and the spear, Hallbjon’s army soon came to the eastern coast of the Hippolytos isle. His kingdom stretched from coast to coast and encompassed most of the known world, no man dared to stop him from his road to absolute power. In the spring of 143 DC over 21 years since his leadership began, Hallbjon began to construct a great fleet of sailing ships to use as his weapon to span his power across the Sea. The greed of Hallbjon’s heart consumed him, and with one Island not quenching his thirst he struck out to claim them all. This greed, this relentless greed would be his fall.
The leaves of the oak trees were just beginning to fall as Hallbjon’s great fleet reached the shores of a large mass of land known as the Grand Island. As his soldiers disembarked their ships they were met with a great surprise. Hallbjon’s Kingdom was not the only power on Decimus, as soon as the soldiers took the beach, thousands of soldiers chased them back into the sea. These soldiers were those loyal to Emperor Xenocrates Theodorus the III of the Theodorus Dynasty and Emperor of the Grand Island. His great Empire had stood for hundreds of years before that of Hallbjon’s and their technology was much more advanced. The Grand Empire as it was known was drawing from an enormous population to fuel their war machine. Thousands of soldiers with the blessing of the Emperor boarded great imperial ships and sailed to destroy Hallbjon’s meager empire that dared to challenge them. At the end of the year 146 DC they had done just that. Hippolytos Island lay in ruins and the Emperor appointed lords over the people of the Hippolytos. For the nest 2 centuries the Grand empire exerted its control over the people of the Hippolytos, taxing, working, and exporting the goods, labor and supplies of the island.
In the year 375 DC Emperor Prokopios Theodorus the I was the sole ruler of the Grand Empire which stretched from the homeland of the Grand Island, to the Hippolytos colony in the east, and all the way in the small island chain of Theron in the south. His Great nation was the largest in the world, and much like Hallbjon’s nation before, none dared to challenge it. Until one day, a great uprising began on the Island of Hippolytos. Thousands of peasants and slaves murdered the Imperial Lords and their families in their sleep. This the beginning of the end for the Grand Empires reign in the Hippolytos Isle. As more and more peasants began to revolt against the Imperial Authority, more and more troops were being sent to quell this resistance. However, no matter how many soldiers the Empire would send by the sword, the peasants of Hippolytos would always prevail. In the year 382 DC, Emperor Prokopios the I ordered that all Citizens and soldiers of the Empire leave Hippolytos. Victorious the peasants began to construct their new society, they appointed and created a great kingdom to rule over the entire Island. They crowned a king named Tertius Carpus who was a great leader in the uprising. Through his strength and his power he ruled until his death in 397 DC. Upon his death his two twin sons, Jason and Achaicus were crowned joint rulers over the kingdom. At the age of 18 the two young rulers began to shape their legacy. However, much like Hallbjon hundreds of years before, the two rulers hearts began to be filled with greed. In the year 399, Achaicus hired a number of assassins to murder his brother so that he may alone rule the kingdom. Unannounced to Achaicus, Jason also was hiring assassins to have his bother killed. On the first day of winter in 399 the two groups of assassins struck their targets with most lethal precision. The Hippolytos Kingdom now had no rulers or heirs to lead their nation. With the onset of the new century the nation was in a civil war to decide who should rule over the people. This bloody upheaval lasted for over 50 years, tearing the countryside and population of the island apart. To this day, the Nation of Hippolytos has been a politically divided nation, and the misgivings still last to this day. However, the people of Hippolytos’ hatred for the Grand Empire outweighs their contempt for each other ten fold, and due to this conflict between the two nations has been as constant as the sun rising every morning.
In most recent history on the planet decimus, the Grand Empire and the Confederate Republic of Hippolytos had just finished a large and bloody war. The outcome of this war has left over 35,000 soldiers, and over 20,000 non-combatants dead. Once again the Grand Empire has taken control of the Hippolytos’ Isle. With the rebuilding effort on the island underway- with the supervision of the Imperial Viceroys- the hunt for the treacherous CRH leader has begun. Before the end of the war the President of the Confederate Republic fled the capital of Zosimos ahead of the advancing Imperial armies. Tasked with the capture of the President, the Imperial Ministry of Defense has been working day and night to find the most wanted man on Decimus. Today the moment of truth has come.
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0820 GMT, Imperial Palace, Imperial Capital, Grand Empire
The halls of the Imperial palace were elaborately decorated with orange linins and banners of the Empire. The coble stone floors were cold to the touch and showed the expert craftsmanship of the Imperial stone masons. The great hall of the Palace is where the Emperor has held court since the beginning of the empire. Built in the 2nd century DC, the Imperial palace was first inhabited by the for fathers of the Theodorus dynasty. Today, Emperor Glaucus Theodorus the IX holds the thrown of power in the great hall. The thrown of power is the common name for the seat in which the emperor sits while he holds court. It is located at the far end of the great hall. The entrance to the great hall is opposite the thrown, and flanked by great pillars of marble and at the far end to the left and right of the thrown hung two huge black and orange banners of the Empire.
Today the Emperor was dressed in the formal wear of the day, which consisted of a black suit and a tie. This is a far cry from the orange robes of past emperors, however times have changed in the world. The Emperor sat in his thrown with his head resting on his fist. His arm was upright leaning on the arms rest of the thrown which was made of a orange cushions on top of marble. The Emperor sported a hefty beard that showed much grayness. His blue eyes watched the newly installed TV monitors that hung on the wall to the left and right of him. He was watching the latest news on the situation in the Hippolytos Isle, the very island in which his army had just taken control. Above the emperors head were mounted two statues that bore the image of the mythological Valkyries, the symbol and great protector of the empire. The Emperors face had a grim look written on it as he assessed the situation in the Former CRH. The news reporters were standing in front of a old school house that had educated over 80 children at one time. The school house was broken down and almost unlivable at the same time as children used it. It seems that the CRH had neglected their children in their political aspirations. As the reporters continued they walked through the school house and showed the world the deplorable conditions that children have been living in. Floors were covered in dirt and mud, walls had huge gaping holes, and books were barley readable. A great deal of money will need to be spent to build the economy of the Hippolytos back to living standards. The Emperor continued to watch as the reporter interviewed several children that were standing in the middle of a dirt road that led through the city. The have starved children seemed to be walking skeletons from the nearby graveyard, much less living breathing kids. The youth of the children of Hippolytos seemed to be stolen away from them, and the Emperor had a duty to do something about it. If the bitterness between the two regions is to come to and end, then good will must reign in the occupation of the Hippolytos Island. No more slavery, no more striping natural resources, and certainly no more abuse of the civilian population.
“Father, your going to do something about all of this right?” the voice of a younger man said. To the right of the Emperors thrown were 5 smaller thrones that served as the seating for the Imperial family, however at the time the seats have yet to be filled. This was apposed to the 5 seats to the left which housed the members of his cabinet. Sitting in the 1st seat from his right, a young gentleman sat upright in his chair. Prince Alexander Theodorus was the 24 year old son and heir of the Emperor. He had brown hair, light brown eyes, and a medium built body. He was wearing a suit and tie much like that of his fathers. He had a tan complexion that brought out the color in his hair.
“Of course my son, it is our duty as royals to help and defend our subjects. I can reassure you that this is at the top of my list of problems to solve. Education is the baseboard of any persons future and I will not deny them that right.”
As the Emperor finished his sentence. The doors of the Great Hall swung open to reveal the Minister of Defense. Simonides was a man on a mission and he walked with a quick pace to address the emperor. As he approached the thrown he stopped and took a bow quickly before making his announcement.
“Milord, I have important news from Military Intelligence that you must hear.”
The Emperor sat upright in his chair and recognized the Minister.
“Ah yes, Minister Simonids, welcome. I pray that this is good news.”
The Emperor turned and looked at his heir who at this time was very interested in hearing the news.
“Son will you please leave me and the Minister alone for a moment?”
The Prince stood up and brushed his suit off.
“Yes your highness, as you wish.”
And with that he was off to the Palace gardens, one of his favorite places on the grounds.
“So what do you have for me?” The Emperor turned his attention forward.
“Sir, I have just received some interesting reports from the commonwealth, it seems an old friend is taking a vacation there.”
“An old friend Sim?”
“Yes Milord, it seems that President Piran was been granted asylum in the Commonwealth and he is staying on one of their military installations. The instillation is located just 50 miles east of the Eastern Sea coast.”
“Where are the carriers Minister?”
“I thought that you would ask that Milord. The 42nd Valkyrie Forward Reaction Force, and the INS-Stephanos are located 500 miles from the target now on standard forward patrol duty. I can have them on the beach within 24 hours Milord if you wish to act.”
The Emperor sat back on his thrown and contemplated the situation. Send ground troops in to take a wanted man, while at the same time violating the sovereignty of a nation in which the Empire is not in good terms with? Or let the most wanted man in the Empire go free and appear weak to the rest of the world? It had been 4 years since he was proclaimed Emperor, and much like a normal politician he had a reputation to think of. Now was a time when he had to think about the Empire and its people, what would this situation if left unchallenged leave for the road ahead? The realization that there was only one choice began to sink into his mind.
“Send in the Valkyries Minister.”
“It will be done your Highness.”
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0600Z The Following day July 5th 2045, Eastern Sea Coast, Commonwealth of Decimus
“Roger Command this is Dragonfly, approaching target and preparing to begin CAP.”
“Confirmed Dragonfly, Radar scan is clear of hostile contacts, you are still unknown as of 0600 Zulu, Ground forces are in route to LZ on your position, ETA 10 minutes, begin your CAP over LZ, repeat begin your CAP of LZ.”
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As the order was given the single F-35B Lightning II descended and whizzed over the beach where soon the 42nd Valkyrie Forward Reaction Force would land. The Valkyrie Forward Reaction Force, “Act-4” or just simply “Valkyrie’s” are the elite of the Imperial military. They were the spearhead of the Emperor’s forces, they are the first in to land on the hostile beach, and they are the first out to leave the combat zone. Usually deployed in small Forward Reaction Forces, the majority of the time they will be in groups of 2,000-4,000 men. With them will be a number of weapon systems, ranging from Tanks, to Gunship’s. This variety gives the Valkyries a flexible combat role, performing beachhead landings, small insertions, or full on assaults the Act-4 can be deployed anywhere, anytime, anyway, and perform the task they are given with 110% efficiency.
On a stretch of beach on the southern end of the Green Coast, the 1st Battalion in preparation for the landing of heavy equipment sent Alpha Company, Armored APC to secure the beachhead. Tasked with the security of the transport carrying heavy equipment to a small section of the Green Coast, known as Proteus’ Cove, The 3rd Platoon, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 42nd Valkyries, or 3A142 have begun their approach of the beach. On the horizon, the silhouette of a group of landing craft could be seen. The Expeditionary Fighting Vehicles laden with the 3A142 were in a dead heat for the shore line. Time was of the essence, and they did not have much time left before the enemy would be aware of their presence. There is nothing worse then landing on a beach under fire. To ensure their safely when landing, in the skies above two AH-64N Navalized Apaches flew towards the beach to give support to the landing forces. It would be no time at all before the EFV’s hit the beach and began to make tracks In the wet sand. With the forces on the beach, and the area seemingly clear, the back doors of the EFV’s dropped open. With a thunder of boots, the 3rd Platoon rushed out and began to cover the area and prepare for the heavy equipment to land. The men of 3rd Platoon were armed with a variety of weapons which included the G36 5.56 mm assault rifle with AG36 grenade launcher and the FN Minimi. As their hearts raced, and their pulse pounded, the men of 3rd Platoon were in for a long day.
“Clear Left!”
“Clear Front!”
“Clear Rear!”
“Clear Right!”
The men of the 3rd Platoon cried as they hit their positions around their APC’s. The man the men of 3rd Platoon look to as their leader is Senior Lieutenant James Kronos, a young and rough edged Valkyrie officer who was known for his vigor in battle, and his stout heart when charging the field along side his men. With his G36 in hand the Lieutenant began issuing his orders to his men.
“Alright! Keep your eyes front, if any Commonwealth jimmies (The nick name given t Commonwealth soldiers) so much as poke their heads up above those bushes yonder, I want you to stick a bullet in their eye.”
At that moment the Platoon radioman crawled over to the Lieutenant and handed him the radio receiver.
“3rd Platoon, ETA of transports is 2 minutes, what is your status?”
“Contact Front!” A cry rang out from one of the men. Soon the silent air was filled with the noise of gun shots. Bullets and explosions began to fill the peaceful serenity of the little cove on the Green Coast. Standing besides the Lieutenant was a young Trooper that was barley out of school at the time. As the sounds of battle began to intensify the young Valkyrie fired his rifle with deadly precision, capping many hostiles in the head. However before long, the young man ran out of such luck and with the swift speed of the heavens, his life was taken with a single round to the forehead. The soldiers body slumped to the ground and fell in the lap of the young Lieutenant. As Kronos stared down he was reminded of all the men he had ever lost in battle, however he could not let this fact get to him, it was an ugly fact of war that he must cope with. Thinking of his young wife back at home, he grasped the ring around his neck and kissed it. It was a tradition he carried out every time he went into battle, a good luck charm that reminded him of all he was fighting for.
“Sergeant Agapios! Bring your squad up the embankment!” James ordered as he surveyed the area. At his position taking cover behind the EFV, the Lieutenant could see a embankment of sand forward of his position about 75 yards. Sergeant Agapios and his men were in a position approximately 20 yards to the Lieutenants’ left. Furthermore, the hostile targets that were currently keeping the Valkyries’ heads down were 200 yards forward in the fringe of the forest. As Kronos watched his men advance towards the embankment he got on the radio with the command element of the task force.
“Command, this is 3rd Platoon, We need air support over!”
“Roger that, AH-64N’s In route to your position, call sign Bullwasp.”
“Platoon! Air support inbound, prepared for advance!” He yelled as he waited for the sweet humming of the choppers blades overhead. Soon enough, that sweet sound like girls singing filled the war ravaged air, 2 AH-64Ns flew gracefully over the water as they waited for instructions.
“Bullwasp! Bullwasp! This is 3rd Platoon, we got a heck of a lot of hostiles 200 yards forward of my position, requesting Hell’s Fire, over!”
“3rd Platoon Roger that, Hell’s Flames inbound.” The answer came back swiftly over the radio.
Heat, and flames erupted in the skies above as the 64’s fired salvos of Hellfire missiles as the hostiles plaguing the Valkyries bellow. Silence overcame the cove, the sounds of gunshots could be heard no more as the 3rd Platoon waited for the hostiles to resume their fire, however this never came. After a few long and stressing moments, Lieutenant Kronos looked up over the battlefield. His platoon was before him, mostly unwounded, a few with light injuries, and only a couple of fatalities. The dark woods before them seemed to be all but silent, this was both a peaceful, and ominous sound. Were they lying in wait for them to move? Or did they retreat? He thought to himself. Weighing his options he chose the direct approach to the situation. Silently he signaled his Sergeants using, hand signals. The order was to advance with caution. Slowly but surely the 3rd Platoon crept forward, ever cautious and prepared should a shot ring out. As the moved closer and closer to the embankment that would provide them more secure cover, the Valkyries felt much more at ease. Soon the entire platoon had reached the embankment and the Lieutenant felt it was safe to bring in the transports.
“Command, this is 3rd Platoon, as is clear for transports.”
Before long, the loud hum of hovercraft engines began to sing across the cove. 4 large LCAC hover crafts bearing 4 large tanks hit the beach with little effort. As the sand and stones were thrown about by the large lift engines, the LCAC’s came to a halt. With the simple start of a engine, 4 large tanks exited their individual LCACs, their treds making large ruts in the sand as they charged on ahead into the forest on a mission to capture the most wanted man on Decimus. Meanwhile the men of 3rd Platoon were in hot pursuit. With the all clear they Mounted up on the EFVs, and tagged right along with the tank column. Lieutenant Kronos himself was riding in the lead EFV watching everything around him through the digital periscope. The terrain he could see was typical of the climate on Decimus, many tropical planets and animals, humidity was very high and the sun blazed in the sky above. The temperatures were an average bombing 92 degrees and moisture was everywhere one could see. The peace Kronos got looking at all of this was an enduring feeling in his mind; however the peace would soon be broken. With a crack and a boom the lead tank in the column took a direct hit from a Anti-Tank rocket, reacting quickly the rest of the column went into full reverse, however this would be soon stopped as the EFV bringing up the rear took a hit as well. Shouts ensued as the Infantry commanders ordered their men off the rolling death traps they were stuck in. Valkyries hugged the side of their EFVs for cover as they returned fire to the hostile contacts. Heavy machine guns and hand grenades rang out into the forest as the enemy fire continued to grow.
“Sir! The whole world is coming down on us!” One of the young infantrymen standing next to the Lieutenant yelled. However, Kronos ignored the compliant, for it had no place on the battlefield. ‘It takes concentration to be a warrior.’ he thought as he pulled the trigger on a hostile in a palm tree above. Running up behind him his Leading
Sergeant, Agapios, as he hit the deck and addressed his commanding officer.
“Sir, we are trapped here, the lead tank and the rear EFV have both taking a crap load. What are your orders?”
“It looks like we will have to-”.
Before he could finish his order, a huge burst of air knocked the entire platoon, and all of the hostiles to the ground. Commonwealth soldiers fell out of the trees as they lost their grip, screaming all of the way to the ground. Following the blast of air, a huge explosion like something colliding with the earth could be heard echoing through the forest. Picking himself off the ground, Lieutenant Kronos quickly brushed the dirt of his body which had completely covered him and his fellow Valkyries due to the air blast. Each man quickly got up on their feet, expecting to be attacked by further commonwealth soldiers. However, silence was all they were met with, around them were the bodies of fallen enemies and some fellow brothers in arms. Confident that the wave of attack was over, they all looked around at each other and tried to figure out what had happened.
“Was it a new commonwealth weapon?”
“No, no, I saw it, it was a Bomber, that flew right above us and crashed little ways away.”
“Hell no, it was way to friggin big to be a bomber, Thompson.”
The speculation went on and on for a couple of moments. Kronos listened to it all as he pondered himself what had happened. What ever it was, it was big, and it was crashing at incredible speed. The next course of action would to be contact command and appraise them of the situation. Seeing nothing else to do, he would do just that. Quickly getting his troops attention he put them back into action by securing a perimeter around the convoy. Next he signaled to his radioman to open communications with command.
“Command, Command this is 3rd Platoon, observed Unidentified Flying Object over head flying southeast, and crashed a half of a mile south east from our location, did we lose something over commonwealth airspace, requesting further instructions, over.”
“3rd Platoon, confirmed, radar observed UFO flight and crash .7 miles south east of your present location, orders are to proceed to .5 miles away from crash location and rendezvous with ISS and ISA agents, over.”
Lieutenant Kronos looked surprised as the orders came over the airway, he looked around at his Sergeants who all had equally surprised looks on their faces.
“Umm, Confirmed command, 3rd Platoon out.”
*click*
“Imperial Special Service, Imperial Space Administration?” Agapios said with great anxiety.
“Why in heck are they there? Something isn’t right, I doubt it was anything of ours if its important enough for them.”
“I agree Sergeant Vasilis, but our orders stand, have the men pull out our comrades from the two wrecked vehicles and load everyone up on the good ones, scuttle the wrecks and we will move out to target position.”
“Roger that Sir.” The Sergeants said as they ran back to their respective squads.
The troops quickly sprung into action and rescued their comrades from the burning wrecks that were hit with the Rockets. Packing up and loading up the Valkyries were off and headed in the direction of their target position southeast of them. With great speed they arrived not 5 minutes after they were given the orders to move. Not many meters away they could see the crash sight in front of them. A large burning hulk of metal seemed to tower over the canopy of trees that blanketed the forest floor. The fire that consumed the hulk seemed to be quickly dying out as 3rd Platoon arrived at their destination. Disembarking his EFV, Kronos walked over to the ISA Agent in charge of the sight.
“Sir, 3rd Platoon reporting as ordered, what is the situation and where do you want my men.”
The man he was speaking to was wearing a large and bulky Hazmat suit, the large clear helmet reveled the mans tanned face as he turned around to address the Valkyrie Officer.
“Outstanding, I recremend that you and your troops go to MOPP level 4, as a precaution, the situation is unknown, as is the object you see in front of you. We picked it up when a deep space telescope was taking pictures of nearby planets in the system. Radar confirmed that the object was moving with great velocity towards our plant. We calculated the impact area to be here, and fortunately we were in the area to make it here first. Also by happenstance you all were here conducting your amphibious landing at the same time. Now before I go on any more rabbit trails, I need your men to set up a perimeter around this object on the double.”
Snapping to attention Kronos confirmed his orders. “Yes Sir!”
Running back to his Platoon he relayed the orders for MOPP level 4 to be assumed, meaning all protective over garments, gas masks, and respirators are to be worn in case of a NBC emergency.
“Alright, Get the Tanks and EFVs set up equally spaced around this hulk, I want everyone on the alert and ready for anything. No one gets through unless they are ISS or ISA. Is that understood Sergeants?”
“Roger that Sir.” They all confirmed.
“Vereor nullus, parco nullus” Kronos uttered the infamous motto of the Valkyries.
Like lightning on the wind, the troops established an air tight perimeter around the hulk that lay in the field. With every barrel pointed in one direction the troopers waited for any signs of hostilities. The clicks and slides of the troops charging their rifles could be heard as the tension built. None knew exactly what was going on, all they knew was there was enough cause for alarm to move to MOPP level 4. This single fact may be the nerve racker of the troops surrounding the bulk of metal.
Over 30 Imperial Special Service, and Imperial Space Administration Agents were present on the scene. Each had a specific job that they were tasked with carrying out. Biochemists
Waited to be called on to analyze any life forms that might be found, in or on the large metal hulk. Microbiologists monitored the air for any signs of virus or biological contaminates. Biophysicists were on standby to study anything in their specific field of research. All at the same time, ISS agents were in close contact with their bosses in Menelaos as they prepared for the most important event in Decimus’ history, the discovery and study of a alien object on Decimus. A team of 12 agents would attempt to enter and study the object, wearing full hazmat suits of course, while a fire team of 5 soldiers lead by Kronos would wait not far behind incase things went down hill. 2 Scientists from each field of study present, 2 ISS agents, and 2 aeronautical engineers would be the pioneers of this endeavourer. As they assembled their equipment the team began their half mile trek to the crash sight. The fire by this time was almost completely out by some strange mean. As they neared the metal hull of the object they could see a few areas that could be entrances to the what obviously was a craft of some sort.
“I am picking up elevated levels of radiation.” one of the Microbiologists said.
“It could be from a type of power generator that the craft is propelled by.” One of the Engineers suggested. Nods all around seemed to hint towards a general agreement on this.
As they got close enough to touch the craft, they began their search for an entryway.
“You can tell a doorway opens here, but it is beyond me how to open it.” A Biophysicists pointed out.
“We could blast it open with C4.” A Engineer, gleefully suggested.
“No! I want this object intact to be researched and studied. Look around and try and find a button or trigger.” The lead ISS agent ordered
One Biochemists was on the far right side of the alleged doorway. He felt the metal with his gloved hand as he searched for a switch. The metal was still hot from its crash. Soon as he run his hand over the metal he noticed a few inscriptions on the side of the ship that read: “δώρο από δικός μας θεοί στο αποταμιεύσειs”, this inscription seemed all to familiar to him.
“Sir, come look at this!” He called to the lead ISS agent. Strutting forward the taller man, whose name was unknown to the scientist, who knew him only as Mockingbird.
“What have you found?”
“It seems to be markings, written in ancient!” the scientist said with great excitement.
“That’s great to know, but I do not speak ancient, do you?”
“No?”
“Well does anyone speak ancient?”
The party all around shook their heads no as they looked around.
“Well, this is a dilemma then, get on the horn with the rest of the team and see if anyone speaks it, and get them over here.”
“Roger!” One of the men said as he picked up a radio.
“Base Camp, this is Research team Alpha, we need someone who speaks ancient over here ASAP.”
A short pause before an answer came.
“Roger Sir, this is Lieutenant Kronos, I have a degree in Decimin ancient history, that requires you to learn ancient.”
“Well pop to solider and get over here.” The man replied.
Swiftly, Lieutenant Kronos made his way over to the research team.
“Reporting Sir!” He said as he reached the group of men clumped around a section of the hull.
“Come closer Lieutenant.” Mockingbird said as he waved his hand.
Kronos neared the markings in question and pondered their meaning for a few long hard moments. The air around the hull of the ship felt so foreign to him that he could barley concentrate. The noise of the exhaling and inhaling of everyone’s gas masks began to annoy him for the most part, but he then buckled down to concentrate on the markings. He lipped the words to himself for a moment and then repeated what he read to the team. As he told them the translation he ran his head over the archaic markings on the hull.
“It reads, ‘The gift from the Gods, to our Saviors.’”
As the words exited his lips, they seemed to be echoed by a strange and deep voice from above. Shadows began to cover the forest floor and thunder could be heard near the area. As Kronos attempted to remove his hand from the hull, he found that he was unable to do so. His hand seemed to be attached to the hull in some mysterious fashion.
“What is going on, what was that Kronos?” The ISS agent exclaimed.
“I don’t know sir, but I cant move my hand, its stuck to the metal.” Kronos said as he tried to resist the mysterious force that had fashioned his hand to the inscription. However, in a split second Kronos had a new problem to worry about, it seemed as if a strange tingling feeling was slowly creeping its way up his arm. His hairs were now standing on end, and his flesh had turned to a very pale color. The more he tried to resist this strange ‘magic’, the more it began to consume him. His comrades around him did there best to try and pull him away, but some force hand anchored him to this fate. Yet, no one but this strange entity knew what this fate was. Before Kronos knew it, the strange energy had consumed him up to his neck, and it was not stopping there. As it swallowed him, his eyes turned back into his head as if he was peering into his now possessed mind. His mouth hung open as his head was held back by this strange power. Muffled coughs and gags could be heard from him as he was shook violently back and fourth against his will. Suddenly with great force, Kronos was thrown back onto his back. His body hit the dirt with a loud thud, there he tossed back and fourth as if he was mentally fighting this strange will that pressed against him. Soon he lay still and let out a deep exhale, his body motionless before the research team.
“Holy- MEDIC!, Get a medic over here NOW!” The one ISA Agent screamed, forgetting to use his radio.
Almost instantly, a team of medics and doctors rushed the scene around Kronos’ motionless body.
“He’s breathing!” One said as he leaned over the mans head listing and watching for signs of life. A Doctor used his two fingers to feel for Kronos’ wrist pulse.
“Pulse is normal, however there is no sign of consciousness. I want him hooked up to a EEG now! Move him to the medical tent.”
Quickly putting together a gurney, the medics lifted Kronos’ body on and carried him away to a airtight medical tent not far from the scene. The blue tent had one entrance in the front, once in the entrance, the medics would close the main door, and open a secondary door, this was much like a airlock on a submarine for divers. Once inside the main area of the tent, they laid Kronos’ body on a exam table, there he was hooked up with a series of electrodes on his cranium to monitor his brain activity. As he machine booted up, it started with a loud and rapid series of beeps. This startled the doctors, for the reason that brain waves should be slow and paced, unlike Kronos’ current rapid pattern. Ten seconds into the monitor of his brain activity, the EEG machine shorted out with a large hiss and a crack.
“What just happened?” The doctor said to one of the aids.
“Sir, the EEG monitored his brain waves, but was fried because there was to much data to process. His brain activity is off the chart, no normal brain can emit that much energy!”
This disturbing news was only the topping on an already disturbing day. And it would only get worse as the day proceeded.
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1400Z GMT, Medical Tent, UFO Crash sight, Commonwealth Territory, Decimus
The slow beeps of the EKG machine were the only noise heard in the small medical tent. Most of the doctors were outside getting a breath of fresh air while a few aids were left on duty. Rising and dropping, Senior Lieutenant James Kronos’ chest lay bear, connected to a number of wires that monitors his vital signs, except for brain activity of course. Aside from the brain waves, everything else was functioning normally for a human being. Kronos had laid there for a total of 4 hours since he was brought in unconscious. No signs of consciousness could be seen from the pale body that lay on the cold table. One of the nurses watched and took pity for the man who had given so much to his country at such a young age of 21. She also thought of his young wife back home in the Empire, and what would happen to her if her husband died. Shaking her head she looked away and attended to a few wounded soldiers in the corner. It would seem to the medical staff that whatever energy James experienced had done horrible things to his brain, so horrible that no technology can measure the electronic activity therein. However, this did not mean that there was no hope for him. Inside of his brain, an eternity has gone by, for James Kronos has undergone a great transformation of self, mind, and knowledge.
A Sharpe hiss was heard throughout the tent as the head doctor on scene walked out of the pressurized hatch.
“Any change in condition Rita?” The man said to the nurse as he took the hood of his hazmat suit.
“No Dr. Spiridon, he hasn’t moved since we laid him there.”
Dr. Spiridon, walked over to the table side and looked down at the motionless man that lay before him. For a moment he thought of what he might have experience in his seemingly last moments. However, un announced to the medical staff, James Kronos was far from his last moments, it had only begun. As the doctor peered down on him, he could just make out a movement in his eye lid, sort of a twitch. The doctor cocked his head to one side as he watched this strange event. Could he be coming to? Suddenly, James’ eyes shot open. This happening was so surprising that the doctor jumped backwards out of shock.
“Nurse! Get over here, we have consciousness.”
The nurse rushed over as the excitement in the room began to build. As the room bustled with activity around him James’ eyes shot back and forth taking in his surroundings. Although he may not look it, he was a new man. His mind was filled with new knowledge and understanding, and ultimately, with new power. He mustered up the strength and sat up on the table. Around him, the doctors and nurses watched in amazement as the seemingly lifeless man little bit ago, was full of life now. Turning his head, Kronos looked around at the faces in the room. It had been a long time- in his mind- since he had been conscious.
“How long has it been?” He said it a rash, and dry voice.
“Four hours.” One nurse replied.
“Its been a long time.” James said as he got off the table and stood on his own two feet. The doctors and nurses looked at each other with profound confusion at this statement. The last time they checked, four hours was not a very long time. In an instant however, James was preparing to enter the airlock, without a suit. A nurse rushed over to stop him in a panic.
“Sir! You can’t go out there, we do not know if anything is wrong with the air, you must take the appropriate precautions.” She said with all seriousness.
“There is nothing wrong with the air.” James said in a monotone as he opened the airlock. Stepping in side he closed the door behind him and prepared to exit the tent. The crowd of medical staff behind him bewildered by this strange behavior. As the exit door opened, a flood of sunlight entered Kronos’ eyes. His pupils were awed by the majestic nature of the bright star in the sky. Without further hesitation, James strutted forward towards the command tent that was not 20 yards away. Once there he called out in a clear and loud voice.
“Where is Mockingbird?”
“Right here.” The answer came in a confused tone. The ISS agent stepped forward in his full MOPP gear, which was in sharp contrast to what James was wearing, a undershirt, and pants.
“Your alive? And your out here, without a suit. We don’t know wh-”
“There is nothing wrong with the air.” He intrepid.
“Why do you say that?”
“Because I was told.”
“By whom?”
“The Ancients.”
“Say what?”
“They spoke to me, as I lay on that bed in the medical tent. It seemed like a thousand years they spent telling me all the knew. Telling me of their secrets, and their history.”
“What else did they tell you?”
James looked around as all the people that had gathered in school circle around him in amazement. A smart grin came over his face as he replied.
“Our Time has come.”
As he said this a large crack could be heard thundering through the forest. As it reached their ears, they noticed a soldier laying slain on the ground about a 100 meters away.
“Contact left!” Another cried as the sounds of battle began to echo through the area.
“It seems that we aren’t the only ones interested in this ship.” Said one of the ISA agents. At the same time Commonwealth troops began to pierce into the left side of the perimeter. With only one platoon and a few tanks and APCs guarding the strange ship, it did not take much for the hostiles to break through. Scrambling for their sidearm’s, the scientists prepared to defend themselves the best they could. However, against the number of hostiles advancing towards them, they would be no match. Another downward turn of events was the entrance of 5 commonwealth tanks into the fray. The Commonwealth Leopard 2 main battle tanks were sharks on the modern battlefield, weighing a good 62.3 tons, and having a max speed of 45 miles per hour, the Leopard 2 was able to bulldoze over any thing in its path. Unfortunately, over 40 scientist were in its path at the moment, and the majority were only armed with service pistols (not much when matched against a tank.) As the enemy tanks pressed towards them, the scientist ran for cover behind anything they could find- chairs, tables, sandbags, etc. The only person who seemed not to fear the oncoming tanks was Lieutenant Kronos, who stood strangely still with his head pointed towards the tanks. Some of the men yelled for Kronos to take cover with them, yet he did not listing. As the tanks got closer, troops manning .50 caliber guns on the turrets pointed their barrels towards the seemingly foolish man. But, without a flinch, Kronos stood In the middle of their path. Within a matter of seconds, if James did not move he would be at the mercy of the oncoming tanks treds. Stretching out his hands, Kronos looked as if he was embracing the nearing tank, instead, in an instant, the tank was lifted off the ground by some strange unknown power. Screams could be heard from inside as the Commonwealth men feared for their lives. With a swing of his arms however, James sent the tank into a collision course with another Leopard not far from it. In a violent crash the two armored vehicles met an explosive end. Unbaffled, James ran towards the Commonwealth troops who stood frozen in amazement behind what was left of the two tanks. Out of fear and panic they began to fire their weapons at the oncoming man- or what they thought was a daemon- for no man has ever had this sort of power. This was one of the reasons for their fear as they spent their bullets in Kronos’ direction. Yet every bullet that attempted to pierce James’ body fell harmlessly to the deck. As James got closer to the Commonwealth troops he jumped high into the air. With the sun behind him, the enemy troops were almost blind to his presence. When he came down however, one unfortunate soldier would meet him face to face, literally. As James’ fist met the soldiers face, the man slumped to the ground. His face was a mangled mess of blood and gore, and most of all, the man was dead. James continued to annihilated the rest of the hostiles soldiers who were now in full retreat towards the woods. Some men abandoned their weapons and sprinted all the way back to their base camp, others just fell to the ground crying in fear for their lives
“Who on Decimus are you” One terrified commonwealth solider asked as James looked down on him.
Without an answer, the man rifle was whisked away by the strange force that Kronos’ controlled. Grasping it, James pointed it at the mans face and pulled the trigger. His head fell to the ground as the blood began to ooze out of his mouth. Throwing down the rifle, James watched as the rest of the troops ran swiftly into the forest. Away from the ‘monster’ that was perusing them.
As James turned around he was met with yet another crowd of on looking scientists.
“Who are you? What are you?” They asked.
For the first time since his event, James looked confused.
“I’m James Kronos, and I am a Photioian.”
“Wait? There hasn’t been a Photioian on Decimus for millions of years. How have you suddenly become one? Have you gone nuts?”
“No, it is true, they sent this ship for your people, so that your name will be revered throughout the galaxy. Everything in the ancients knowledge is locked inside of that ship. Technology thousands of years ahead of us is there as a present from the Gods. With all of this they want you the Decimins to create an Empire that spans the stars, A Grand Decimin Empire. The ancients have restored themselves in me, reforming me as one of their own, so that I may revive them as a race. With my wife I will breed young Photioians and along side your people we will rule the stars as one great people. This is our time.”
Intelligence annalists and military strategist all crowded the medium sized room deep within the Imperial Palace. Their attention was fastened on a screen in the front of the room, on which a video was streaming of a foreign military base. On the screen, men could be see walking about performing their daily jobs with out the knowledge that they were being watched from high above. As the annalists continued to monitor the situation, a group of people walked into the room. Among them was a older man in a dark grey suit. His graying hair spoke of age and wisdom, and his eyes spoke of tenacity and strength. The man squinted as he scanned the image shown on the screen.
“What are we looking at?” The man said
“This image is a live stream sir, of a Commonwealth Military base in the northern part of the country. We have just received intelligence that President Piran of the former Confederate Republic has been given asylum in the Commonwealth and that he is scheduled to be staying here for a short period time. However, we are unsure if this Intel is accurate so we are looking for visual confirmation.”
“Very well, keep me informed. The Emperor does not like to be kept waiting in situations like these.”
“Understood Sir.”
The man turned around swiftly to speak with his advisors, his ID Badge swung back and fourth from its position on the upper left hand pocket of his jacket. On the ID Badge the name read Simonides Olympiodoros, Minister of Defense. Simonides- or “Sim” for short- was a very powerful man. Appointed to this post not long ago, the Emperor of the Grand Empire had entrusted him with the most powerful military on Decimus.
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Decimus is warm and tropical planet in the Photios system. The planet has 2 moons- Pelagius and Theophilus- and is over 80% water. Decimin’s lives throughout the ages have revolved around the sea. These humans in turn have become masters of it. Children from a very young age Are taught nautical terms and sailing skills Hands on. Fish are the primary food source for the people of the planet and swimming is a popular pastime. Throughout it history the planets, economic, political, and military events have revolved around the sea. Nation shave built great fleets to war with each other, and all the while more and more sailors are claimed by its deep. The people therefore have a great respect for its grace and its unyielding strength.
The history of Decimus has been a long and bloody struggle of man vs. man, and sometimes man vs. the sea. Dotting the history of the planet are many wars that have been fought for the control of the small 20% of the planet. Over 3000 years ago the human population of Decimus lived in small tribes that dotted the islands of Decimus. In the year 122 DC (Decimus Calendar) a warlord named Hallbjon Theodosius rose to power in a small tribe on the western most coast of the Hippolytos Island, which was situated at the center of the Eastern Sea. Through his new gained power, he struck out against his neighboring tribe and one by one made them his subjects. Through the sword and the spear, Hallbjon’s army soon came to the eastern coast of the Hippolytos isle. His kingdom stretched from coast to coast and encompassed most of the known world, no man dared to stop him from his road to absolute power. In the spring of 143 DC over 21 years since his leadership began, Hallbjon began to construct a great fleet of sailing ships to use as his weapon to span his power across the Sea. The greed of Hallbjon’s heart consumed him, and with one Island not quenching his thirst he struck out to claim them all. This greed, this relentless greed would be his fall.
The leaves of the oak trees were just beginning to fall as Hallbjon’s great fleet reached the shores of a large mass of land known as the Grand Island. As his soldiers disembarked their ships they were met with a great surprise. Hallbjon’s Kingdom was not the only power on Decimus, as soon as the soldiers took the beach, thousands of soldiers chased them back into the sea. These soldiers were those loyal to Emperor Xenocrates Theodorus the III of the Theodorus Dynasty and Emperor of the Grand Island. His great Empire had stood for hundreds of years before that of Hallbjon’s and their technology was much more advanced. The Grand Empire as it was known was drawing from an enormous population to fuel their war machine. Thousands of soldiers with the blessing of the Emperor boarded great imperial ships and sailed to destroy Hallbjon’s meager empire that dared to challenge them. At the end of the year 146 DC they had done just that. Hippolytos Island lay in ruins and the Emperor appointed lords over the people of the Hippolytos. For the nest 2 centuries the Grand empire exerted its control over the people of the Hippolytos, taxing, working, and exporting the goods, labor and supplies of the island.
In the year 375 DC Emperor Prokopios Theodorus the I was the sole ruler of the Grand Empire which stretched from the homeland of the Grand Island, to the Hippolytos colony in the east, and all the way in the small island chain of Theron in the south. His Great nation was the largest in the world, and much like Hallbjon’s nation before, none dared to challenge it. Until one day, a great uprising began on the Island of Hippolytos. Thousands of peasants and slaves murdered the Imperial Lords and their families in their sleep. This the beginning of the end for the Grand Empires reign in the Hippolytos Isle. As more and more peasants began to revolt against the Imperial Authority, more and more troops were being sent to quell this resistance. However, no matter how many soldiers the Empire would send by the sword, the peasants of Hippolytos would always prevail. In the year 382 DC, Emperor Prokopios the I ordered that all Citizens and soldiers of the Empire leave Hippolytos. Victorious the peasants began to construct their new society, they appointed and created a great kingdom to rule over the entire Island. They crowned a king named Tertius Carpus who was a great leader in the uprising. Through his strength and his power he ruled until his death in 397 DC. Upon his death his two twin sons, Jason and Achaicus were crowned joint rulers over the kingdom. At the age of 18 the two young rulers began to shape their legacy. However, much like Hallbjon hundreds of years before, the two rulers hearts began to be filled with greed. In the year 399, Achaicus hired a number of assassins to murder his brother so that he may alone rule the kingdom. Unannounced to Achaicus, Jason also was hiring assassins to have his bother killed. On the first day of winter in 399 the two groups of assassins struck their targets with most lethal precision. The Hippolytos Kingdom now had no rulers or heirs to lead their nation. With the onset of the new century the nation was in a civil war to decide who should rule over the people. This bloody upheaval lasted for over 50 years, tearing the countryside and population of the island apart. To this day, the Nation of Hippolytos has been a politically divided nation, and the misgivings still last to this day. However, the people of Hippolytos’ hatred for the Grand Empire outweighs their contempt for each other ten fold, and due to this conflict between the two nations has been as constant as the sun rising every morning.
In most recent history on the planet decimus, the Grand Empire and the Confederate Republic of Hippolytos had just finished a large and bloody war. The outcome of this war has left over 35,000 soldiers, and over 20,000 non-combatants dead. Once again the Grand Empire has taken control of the Hippolytos’ Isle. With the rebuilding effort on the island underway- with the supervision of the Imperial Viceroys- the hunt for the treacherous CRH leader has begun. Before the end of the war the President of the Confederate Republic fled the capital of Zosimos ahead of the advancing Imperial armies. Tasked with the capture of the President, the Imperial Ministry of Defense has been working day and night to find the most wanted man on Decimus. Today the moment of truth has come.
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0820 GMT, Imperial Palace, Imperial Capital, Grand Empire
The halls of the Imperial palace were elaborately decorated with orange linins and banners of the Empire. The coble stone floors were cold to the touch and showed the expert craftsmanship of the Imperial stone masons. The great hall of the Palace is where the Emperor has held court since the beginning of the empire. Built in the 2nd century DC, the Imperial palace was first inhabited by the for fathers of the Theodorus dynasty. Today, Emperor Glaucus Theodorus the IX holds the thrown of power in the great hall. The thrown of power is the common name for the seat in which the emperor sits while he holds court. It is located at the far end of the great hall. The entrance to the great hall is opposite the thrown, and flanked by great pillars of marble and at the far end to the left and right of the thrown hung two huge black and orange banners of the Empire.
Today the Emperor was dressed in the formal wear of the day, which consisted of a black suit and a tie. This is a far cry from the orange robes of past emperors, however times have changed in the world. The Emperor sat in his thrown with his head resting on his fist. His arm was upright leaning on the arms rest of the thrown which was made of a orange cushions on top of marble. The Emperor sported a hefty beard that showed much grayness. His blue eyes watched the newly installed TV monitors that hung on the wall to the left and right of him. He was watching the latest news on the situation in the Hippolytos Isle, the very island in which his army had just taken control. Above the emperors head were mounted two statues that bore the image of the mythological Valkyries, the symbol and great protector of the empire. The Emperors face had a grim look written on it as he assessed the situation in the Former CRH. The news reporters were standing in front of a old school house that had educated over 80 children at one time. The school house was broken down and almost unlivable at the same time as children used it. It seems that the CRH had neglected their children in their political aspirations. As the reporters continued they walked through the school house and showed the world the deplorable conditions that children have been living in. Floors were covered in dirt and mud, walls had huge gaping holes, and books were barley readable. A great deal of money will need to be spent to build the economy of the Hippolytos back to living standards. The Emperor continued to watch as the reporter interviewed several children that were standing in the middle of a dirt road that led through the city. The have starved children seemed to be walking skeletons from the nearby graveyard, much less living breathing kids. The youth of the children of Hippolytos seemed to be stolen away from them, and the Emperor had a duty to do something about it. If the bitterness between the two regions is to come to and end, then good will must reign in the occupation of the Hippolytos Island. No more slavery, no more striping natural resources, and certainly no more abuse of the civilian population.
“Father, your going to do something about all of this right?” the voice of a younger man said. To the right of the Emperors thrown were 5 smaller thrones that served as the seating for the Imperial family, however at the time the seats have yet to be filled. This was apposed to the 5 seats to the left which housed the members of his cabinet. Sitting in the 1st seat from his right, a young gentleman sat upright in his chair. Prince Alexander Theodorus was the 24 year old son and heir of the Emperor. He had brown hair, light brown eyes, and a medium built body. He was wearing a suit and tie much like that of his fathers. He had a tan complexion that brought out the color in his hair.
“Of course my son, it is our duty as royals to help and defend our subjects. I can reassure you that this is at the top of my list of problems to solve. Education is the baseboard of any persons future and I will not deny them that right.”
As the Emperor finished his sentence. The doors of the Great Hall swung open to reveal the Minister of Defense. Simonides was a man on a mission and he walked with a quick pace to address the emperor. As he approached the thrown he stopped and took a bow quickly before making his announcement.
“Milord, I have important news from Military Intelligence that you must hear.”
The Emperor sat upright in his chair and recognized the Minister.
“Ah yes, Minister Simonids, welcome. I pray that this is good news.”
The Emperor turned and looked at his heir who at this time was very interested in hearing the news.
“Son will you please leave me and the Minister alone for a moment?”
The Prince stood up and brushed his suit off.
“Yes your highness, as you wish.”
And with that he was off to the Palace gardens, one of his favorite places on the grounds.
“So what do you have for me?” The Emperor turned his attention forward.
“Sir, I have just received some interesting reports from the commonwealth, it seems an old friend is taking a vacation there.”
“An old friend Sim?”
“Yes Milord, it seems that President Piran was been granted asylum in the Commonwealth and he is staying on one of their military installations. The instillation is located just 50 miles east of the Eastern Sea coast.”
“Where are the carriers Minister?”
“I thought that you would ask that Milord. The 42nd Valkyrie Forward Reaction Force, and the INS-Stephanos are located 500 miles from the target now on standard forward patrol duty. I can have them on the beach within 24 hours Milord if you wish to act.”
The Emperor sat back on his thrown and contemplated the situation. Send ground troops in to take a wanted man, while at the same time violating the sovereignty of a nation in which the Empire is not in good terms with? Or let the most wanted man in the Empire go free and appear weak to the rest of the world? It had been 4 years since he was proclaimed Emperor, and much like a normal politician he had a reputation to think of. Now was a time when he had to think about the Empire and its people, what would this situation if left unchallenged leave for the road ahead? The realization that there was only one choice began to sink into his mind.
“Send in the Valkyries Minister.”
“It will be done your Highness.”
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0600Z The Following day July 5th 2045, Eastern Sea Coast, Commonwealth of Decimus
“Roger Command this is Dragonfly, approaching target and preparing to begin CAP.”
“Confirmed Dragonfly, Radar scan is clear of hostile contacts, you are still unknown as of 0600 Zulu, Ground forces are in route to LZ on your position, ETA 10 minutes, begin your CAP over LZ, repeat begin your CAP of LZ.”
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As the order was given the single F-35B Lightning II descended and whizzed over the beach where soon the 42nd Valkyrie Forward Reaction Force would land. The Valkyrie Forward Reaction Force, “Act-4” or just simply “Valkyrie’s” are the elite of the Imperial military. They were the spearhead of the Emperor’s forces, they are the first in to land on the hostile beach, and they are the first out to leave the combat zone. Usually deployed in small Forward Reaction Forces, the majority of the time they will be in groups of 2,000-4,000 men. With them will be a number of weapon systems, ranging from Tanks, to Gunship’s. This variety gives the Valkyries a flexible combat role, performing beachhead landings, small insertions, or full on assaults the Act-4 can be deployed anywhere, anytime, anyway, and perform the task they are given with 110% efficiency.
On a stretch of beach on the southern end of the Green Coast, the 1st Battalion in preparation for the landing of heavy equipment sent Alpha Company, Armored APC to secure the beachhead. Tasked with the security of the transport carrying heavy equipment to a small section of the Green Coast, known as Proteus’ Cove, The 3rd Platoon, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 42nd Valkyries, or 3A142 have begun their approach of the beach. On the horizon, the silhouette of a group of landing craft could be seen. The Expeditionary Fighting Vehicles laden with the 3A142 were in a dead heat for the shore line. Time was of the essence, and they did not have much time left before the enemy would be aware of their presence. There is nothing worse then landing on a beach under fire. To ensure their safely when landing, in the skies above two AH-64N Navalized Apaches flew towards the beach to give support to the landing forces. It would be no time at all before the EFV’s hit the beach and began to make tracks In the wet sand. With the forces on the beach, and the area seemingly clear, the back doors of the EFV’s dropped open. With a thunder of boots, the 3rd Platoon rushed out and began to cover the area and prepare for the heavy equipment to land. The men of 3rd Platoon were armed with a variety of weapons which included the G36 5.56 mm assault rifle with AG36 grenade launcher and the FN Minimi. As their hearts raced, and their pulse pounded, the men of 3rd Platoon were in for a long day.
“Clear Left!”
“Clear Front!”
“Clear Rear!”
“Clear Right!”
The men of the 3rd Platoon cried as they hit their positions around their APC’s. The man the men of 3rd Platoon look to as their leader is Senior Lieutenant James Kronos, a young and rough edged Valkyrie officer who was known for his vigor in battle, and his stout heart when charging the field along side his men. With his G36 in hand the Lieutenant began issuing his orders to his men.
“Alright! Keep your eyes front, if any Commonwealth jimmies (The nick name given t Commonwealth soldiers) so much as poke their heads up above those bushes yonder, I want you to stick a bullet in their eye.”
At that moment the Platoon radioman crawled over to the Lieutenant and handed him the radio receiver.
“3rd Platoon, ETA of transports is 2 minutes, what is your status?”
“Contact Front!” A cry rang out from one of the men. Soon the silent air was filled with the noise of gun shots. Bullets and explosions began to fill the peaceful serenity of the little cove on the Green Coast. Standing besides the Lieutenant was a young Trooper that was barley out of school at the time. As the sounds of battle began to intensify the young Valkyrie fired his rifle with deadly precision, capping many hostiles in the head. However before long, the young man ran out of such luck and with the swift speed of the heavens, his life was taken with a single round to the forehead. The soldiers body slumped to the ground and fell in the lap of the young Lieutenant. As Kronos stared down he was reminded of all the men he had ever lost in battle, however he could not let this fact get to him, it was an ugly fact of war that he must cope with. Thinking of his young wife back at home, he grasped the ring around his neck and kissed it. It was a tradition he carried out every time he went into battle, a good luck charm that reminded him of all he was fighting for.
“Sergeant Agapios! Bring your squad up the embankment!” James ordered as he surveyed the area. At his position taking cover behind the EFV, the Lieutenant could see a embankment of sand forward of his position about 75 yards. Sergeant Agapios and his men were in a position approximately 20 yards to the Lieutenants’ left. Furthermore, the hostile targets that were currently keeping the Valkyries’ heads down were 200 yards forward in the fringe of the forest. As Kronos watched his men advance towards the embankment he got on the radio with the command element of the task force.
“Command, this is 3rd Platoon, We need air support over!”
“Roger that, AH-64N’s In route to your position, call sign Bullwasp.”
“Platoon! Air support inbound, prepared for advance!” He yelled as he waited for the sweet humming of the choppers blades overhead. Soon enough, that sweet sound like girls singing filled the war ravaged air, 2 AH-64Ns flew gracefully over the water as they waited for instructions.
“Bullwasp! Bullwasp! This is 3rd Platoon, we got a heck of a lot of hostiles 200 yards forward of my position, requesting Hell’s Fire, over!”
“3rd Platoon Roger that, Hell’s Flames inbound.” The answer came back swiftly over the radio.
Heat, and flames erupted in the skies above as the 64’s fired salvos of Hellfire missiles as the hostiles plaguing the Valkyries bellow. Silence overcame the cove, the sounds of gunshots could be heard no more as the 3rd Platoon waited for the hostiles to resume their fire, however this never came. After a few long and stressing moments, Lieutenant Kronos looked up over the battlefield. His platoon was before him, mostly unwounded, a few with light injuries, and only a couple of fatalities. The dark woods before them seemed to be all but silent, this was both a peaceful, and ominous sound. Were they lying in wait for them to move? Or did they retreat? He thought to himself. Weighing his options he chose the direct approach to the situation. Silently he signaled his Sergeants using, hand signals. The order was to advance with caution. Slowly but surely the 3rd Platoon crept forward, ever cautious and prepared should a shot ring out. As the moved closer and closer to the embankment that would provide them more secure cover, the Valkyries felt much more at ease. Soon the entire platoon had reached the embankment and the Lieutenant felt it was safe to bring in the transports.
“Command, this is 3rd Platoon, as is clear for transports.”
Before long, the loud hum of hovercraft engines began to sing across the cove. 4 large LCAC hover crafts bearing 4 large tanks hit the beach with little effort. As the sand and stones were thrown about by the large lift engines, the LCAC’s came to a halt. With the simple start of a engine, 4 large tanks exited their individual LCACs, their treds making large ruts in the sand as they charged on ahead into the forest on a mission to capture the most wanted man on Decimus. Meanwhile the men of 3rd Platoon were in hot pursuit. With the all clear they Mounted up on the EFVs, and tagged right along with the tank column. Lieutenant Kronos himself was riding in the lead EFV watching everything around him through the digital periscope. The terrain he could see was typical of the climate on Decimus, many tropical planets and animals, humidity was very high and the sun blazed in the sky above. The temperatures were an average bombing 92 degrees and moisture was everywhere one could see. The peace Kronos got looking at all of this was an enduring feeling in his mind; however the peace would soon be broken. With a crack and a boom the lead tank in the column took a direct hit from a Anti-Tank rocket, reacting quickly the rest of the column went into full reverse, however this would be soon stopped as the EFV bringing up the rear took a hit as well. Shouts ensued as the Infantry commanders ordered their men off the rolling death traps they were stuck in. Valkyries hugged the side of their EFVs for cover as they returned fire to the hostile contacts. Heavy machine guns and hand grenades rang out into the forest as the enemy fire continued to grow.
“Sir! The whole world is coming down on us!” One of the young infantrymen standing next to the Lieutenant yelled. However, Kronos ignored the compliant, for it had no place on the battlefield. ‘It takes concentration to be a warrior.’ he thought as he pulled the trigger on a hostile in a palm tree above. Running up behind him his Leading
Sergeant, Agapios, as he hit the deck and addressed his commanding officer.
“Sir, we are trapped here, the lead tank and the rear EFV have both taking a crap load. What are your orders?”
“It looks like we will have to-”.
Before he could finish his order, a huge burst of air knocked the entire platoon, and all of the hostiles to the ground. Commonwealth soldiers fell out of the trees as they lost their grip, screaming all of the way to the ground. Following the blast of air, a huge explosion like something colliding with the earth could be heard echoing through the forest. Picking himself off the ground, Lieutenant Kronos quickly brushed the dirt of his body which had completely covered him and his fellow Valkyries due to the air blast. Each man quickly got up on their feet, expecting to be attacked by further commonwealth soldiers. However, silence was all they were met with, around them were the bodies of fallen enemies and some fellow brothers in arms. Confident that the wave of attack was over, they all looked around at each other and tried to figure out what had happened.
“Was it a new commonwealth weapon?”
“No, no, I saw it, it was a Bomber, that flew right above us and crashed little ways away.”
“Hell no, it was way to friggin big to be a bomber, Thompson.”
The speculation went on and on for a couple of moments. Kronos listened to it all as he pondered himself what had happened. What ever it was, it was big, and it was crashing at incredible speed. The next course of action would to be contact command and appraise them of the situation. Seeing nothing else to do, he would do just that. Quickly getting his troops attention he put them back into action by securing a perimeter around the convoy. Next he signaled to his radioman to open communications with command.
“Command, Command this is 3rd Platoon, observed Unidentified Flying Object over head flying southeast, and crashed a half of a mile south east from our location, did we lose something over commonwealth airspace, requesting further instructions, over.”
“3rd Platoon, confirmed, radar observed UFO flight and crash .7 miles south east of your present location, orders are to proceed to .5 miles away from crash location and rendezvous with ISS and ISA agents, over.”
Lieutenant Kronos looked surprised as the orders came over the airway, he looked around at his Sergeants who all had equally surprised looks on their faces.
“Umm, Confirmed command, 3rd Platoon out.”
*click*
“Imperial Special Service, Imperial Space Administration?” Agapios said with great anxiety.
“Why in heck are they there? Something isn’t right, I doubt it was anything of ours if its important enough for them.”
“I agree Sergeant Vasilis, but our orders stand, have the men pull out our comrades from the two wrecked vehicles and load everyone up on the good ones, scuttle the wrecks and we will move out to target position.”
“Roger that Sir.” The Sergeants said as they ran back to their respective squads.
The troops quickly sprung into action and rescued their comrades from the burning wrecks that were hit with the Rockets. Packing up and loading up the Valkyries were off and headed in the direction of their target position southeast of them. With great speed they arrived not 5 minutes after they were given the orders to move. Not many meters away they could see the crash sight in front of them. A large burning hulk of metal seemed to tower over the canopy of trees that blanketed the forest floor. The fire that consumed the hulk seemed to be quickly dying out as 3rd Platoon arrived at their destination. Disembarking his EFV, Kronos walked over to the ISA Agent in charge of the sight.
“Sir, 3rd Platoon reporting as ordered, what is the situation and where do you want my men.”
The man he was speaking to was wearing a large and bulky Hazmat suit, the large clear helmet reveled the mans tanned face as he turned around to address the Valkyrie Officer.
“Outstanding, I recremend that you and your troops go to MOPP level 4, as a precaution, the situation is unknown, as is the object you see in front of you. We picked it up when a deep space telescope was taking pictures of nearby planets in the system. Radar confirmed that the object was moving with great velocity towards our plant. We calculated the impact area to be here, and fortunately we were in the area to make it here first. Also by happenstance you all were here conducting your amphibious landing at the same time. Now before I go on any more rabbit trails, I need your men to set up a perimeter around this object on the double.”
Snapping to attention Kronos confirmed his orders. “Yes Sir!”
Running back to his Platoon he relayed the orders for MOPP level 4 to be assumed, meaning all protective over garments, gas masks, and respirators are to be worn in case of a NBC emergency.
“Alright, Get the Tanks and EFVs set up equally spaced around this hulk, I want everyone on the alert and ready for anything. No one gets through unless they are ISS or ISA. Is that understood Sergeants?”
“Roger that Sir.” They all confirmed.
“Vereor nullus, parco nullus” Kronos uttered the infamous motto of the Valkyries.
Like lightning on the wind, the troops established an air tight perimeter around the hulk that lay in the field. With every barrel pointed in one direction the troopers waited for any signs of hostilities. The clicks and slides of the troops charging their rifles could be heard as the tension built. None knew exactly what was going on, all they knew was there was enough cause for alarm to move to MOPP level 4. This single fact may be the nerve racker of the troops surrounding the bulk of metal.
Over 30 Imperial Special Service, and Imperial Space Administration Agents were present on the scene. Each had a specific job that they were tasked with carrying out. Biochemists
Waited to be called on to analyze any life forms that might be found, in or on the large metal hulk. Microbiologists monitored the air for any signs of virus or biological contaminates. Biophysicists were on standby to study anything in their specific field of research. All at the same time, ISS agents were in close contact with their bosses in Menelaos as they prepared for the most important event in Decimus’ history, the discovery and study of a alien object on Decimus. A team of 12 agents would attempt to enter and study the object, wearing full hazmat suits of course, while a fire team of 5 soldiers lead by Kronos would wait not far behind incase things went down hill. 2 Scientists from each field of study present, 2 ISS agents, and 2 aeronautical engineers would be the pioneers of this endeavourer. As they assembled their equipment the team began their half mile trek to the crash sight. The fire by this time was almost completely out by some strange mean. As they neared the metal hull of the object they could see a few areas that could be entrances to the what obviously was a craft of some sort.
“I am picking up elevated levels of radiation.” one of the Microbiologists said.
“It could be from a type of power generator that the craft is propelled by.” One of the Engineers suggested. Nods all around seemed to hint towards a general agreement on this.
As they got close enough to touch the craft, they began their search for an entryway.
“You can tell a doorway opens here, but it is beyond me how to open it.” A Biophysicists pointed out.
“We could blast it open with C4.” A Engineer, gleefully suggested.
“No! I want this object intact to be researched and studied. Look around and try and find a button or trigger.” The lead ISS agent ordered
One Biochemists was on the far right side of the alleged doorway. He felt the metal with his gloved hand as he searched for a switch. The metal was still hot from its crash. Soon as he run his hand over the metal he noticed a few inscriptions on the side of the ship that read: “δώρο από δικός μας θεοί στο αποταμιεύσειs”, this inscription seemed all to familiar to him.
“Sir, come look at this!” He called to the lead ISS agent. Strutting forward the taller man, whose name was unknown to the scientist, who knew him only as Mockingbird.
“What have you found?”
“It seems to be markings, written in ancient!” the scientist said with great excitement.
“That’s great to know, but I do not speak ancient, do you?”
“No?”
“Well does anyone speak ancient?”
The party all around shook their heads no as they looked around.
“Well, this is a dilemma then, get on the horn with the rest of the team and see if anyone speaks it, and get them over here.”
“Roger!” One of the men said as he picked up a radio.
“Base Camp, this is Research team Alpha, we need someone who speaks ancient over here ASAP.”
A short pause before an answer came.
“Roger Sir, this is Lieutenant Kronos, I have a degree in Decimin ancient history, that requires you to learn ancient.”
“Well pop to solider and get over here.” The man replied.
Swiftly, Lieutenant Kronos made his way over to the research team.
“Reporting Sir!” He said as he reached the group of men clumped around a section of the hull.
“Come closer Lieutenant.” Mockingbird said as he waved his hand.
Kronos neared the markings in question and pondered their meaning for a few long hard moments. The air around the hull of the ship felt so foreign to him that he could barley concentrate. The noise of the exhaling and inhaling of everyone’s gas masks began to annoy him for the most part, but he then buckled down to concentrate on the markings. He lipped the words to himself for a moment and then repeated what he read to the team. As he told them the translation he ran his head over the archaic markings on the hull.
“It reads, ‘The gift from the Gods, to our Saviors.’”
As the words exited his lips, they seemed to be echoed by a strange and deep voice from above. Shadows began to cover the forest floor and thunder could be heard near the area. As Kronos attempted to remove his hand from the hull, he found that he was unable to do so. His hand seemed to be attached to the hull in some mysterious fashion.
“What is going on, what was that Kronos?” The ISS agent exclaimed.
“I don’t know sir, but I cant move my hand, its stuck to the metal.” Kronos said as he tried to resist the mysterious force that had fashioned his hand to the inscription. However, in a split second Kronos had a new problem to worry about, it seemed as if a strange tingling feeling was slowly creeping its way up his arm. His hairs were now standing on end, and his flesh had turned to a very pale color. The more he tried to resist this strange ‘magic’, the more it began to consume him. His comrades around him did there best to try and pull him away, but some force hand anchored him to this fate. Yet, no one but this strange entity knew what this fate was. Before Kronos knew it, the strange energy had consumed him up to his neck, and it was not stopping there. As it swallowed him, his eyes turned back into his head as if he was peering into his now possessed mind. His mouth hung open as his head was held back by this strange power. Muffled coughs and gags could be heard from him as he was shook violently back and fourth against his will. Suddenly with great force, Kronos was thrown back onto his back. His body hit the dirt with a loud thud, there he tossed back and fourth as if he was mentally fighting this strange will that pressed against him. Soon he lay still and let out a deep exhale, his body motionless before the research team.
“Holy- MEDIC!, Get a medic over here NOW!” The one ISA Agent screamed, forgetting to use his radio.
Almost instantly, a team of medics and doctors rushed the scene around Kronos’ motionless body.
“He’s breathing!” One said as he leaned over the mans head listing and watching for signs of life. A Doctor used his two fingers to feel for Kronos’ wrist pulse.
“Pulse is normal, however there is no sign of consciousness. I want him hooked up to a EEG now! Move him to the medical tent.”
Quickly putting together a gurney, the medics lifted Kronos’ body on and carried him away to a airtight medical tent not far from the scene. The blue tent had one entrance in the front, once in the entrance, the medics would close the main door, and open a secondary door, this was much like a airlock on a submarine for divers. Once inside the main area of the tent, they laid Kronos’ body on a exam table, there he was hooked up with a series of electrodes on his cranium to monitor his brain activity. As he machine booted up, it started with a loud and rapid series of beeps. This startled the doctors, for the reason that brain waves should be slow and paced, unlike Kronos’ current rapid pattern. Ten seconds into the monitor of his brain activity, the EEG machine shorted out with a large hiss and a crack.
“What just happened?” The doctor said to one of the aids.
“Sir, the EEG monitored his brain waves, but was fried because there was to much data to process. His brain activity is off the chart, no normal brain can emit that much energy!”
This disturbing news was only the topping on an already disturbing day. And it would only get worse as the day proceeded.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1400Z GMT, Medical Tent, UFO Crash sight, Commonwealth Territory, Decimus
The slow beeps of the EKG machine were the only noise heard in the small medical tent. Most of the doctors were outside getting a breath of fresh air while a few aids were left on duty. Rising and dropping, Senior Lieutenant James Kronos’ chest lay bear, connected to a number of wires that monitors his vital signs, except for brain activity of course. Aside from the brain waves, everything else was functioning normally for a human being. Kronos had laid there for a total of 4 hours since he was brought in unconscious. No signs of consciousness could be seen from the pale body that lay on the cold table. One of the nurses watched and took pity for the man who had given so much to his country at such a young age of 21. She also thought of his young wife back home in the Empire, and what would happen to her if her husband died. Shaking her head she looked away and attended to a few wounded soldiers in the corner. It would seem to the medical staff that whatever energy James experienced had done horrible things to his brain, so horrible that no technology can measure the electronic activity therein. However, this did not mean that there was no hope for him. Inside of his brain, an eternity has gone by, for James Kronos has undergone a great transformation of self, mind, and knowledge.
A Sharpe hiss was heard throughout the tent as the head doctor on scene walked out of the pressurized hatch.
“Any change in condition Rita?” The man said to the nurse as he took the hood of his hazmat suit.
“No Dr. Spiridon, he hasn’t moved since we laid him there.”
Dr. Spiridon, walked over to the table side and looked down at the motionless man that lay before him. For a moment he thought of what he might have experience in his seemingly last moments. However, un announced to the medical staff, James Kronos was far from his last moments, it had only begun. As the doctor peered down on him, he could just make out a movement in his eye lid, sort of a twitch. The doctor cocked his head to one side as he watched this strange event. Could he be coming to? Suddenly, James’ eyes shot open. This happening was so surprising that the doctor jumped backwards out of shock.
“Nurse! Get over here, we have consciousness.”
The nurse rushed over as the excitement in the room began to build. As the room bustled with activity around him James’ eyes shot back and forth taking in his surroundings. Although he may not look it, he was a new man. His mind was filled with new knowledge and understanding, and ultimately, with new power. He mustered up the strength and sat up on the table. Around him, the doctors and nurses watched in amazement as the seemingly lifeless man little bit ago, was full of life now. Turning his head, Kronos looked around at the faces in the room. It had been a long time- in his mind- since he had been conscious.
“How long has it been?” He said it a rash, and dry voice.
“Four hours.” One nurse replied.
“Its been a long time.” James said as he got off the table and stood on his own two feet. The doctors and nurses looked at each other with profound confusion at this statement. The last time they checked, four hours was not a very long time. In an instant however, James was preparing to enter the airlock, without a suit. A nurse rushed over to stop him in a panic.
“Sir! You can’t go out there, we do not know if anything is wrong with the air, you must take the appropriate precautions.” She said with all seriousness.
“There is nothing wrong with the air.” James said in a monotone as he opened the airlock. Stepping in side he closed the door behind him and prepared to exit the tent. The crowd of medical staff behind him bewildered by this strange behavior. As the exit door opened, a flood of sunlight entered Kronos’ eyes. His pupils were awed by the majestic nature of the bright star in the sky. Without further hesitation, James strutted forward towards the command tent that was not 20 yards away. Once there he called out in a clear and loud voice.
“Where is Mockingbird?”
“Right here.” The answer came in a confused tone. The ISS agent stepped forward in his full MOPP gear, which was in sharp contrast to what James was wearing, a undershirt, and pants.
“Your alive? And your out here, without a suit. We don’t know wh-”
“There is nothing wrong with the air.” He intrepid.
“Why do you say that?”
“Because I was told.”
“By whom?”
“The Ancients.”
“Say what?”
“They spoke to me, as I lay on that bed in the medical tent. It seemed like a thousand years they spent telling me all the knew. Telling me of their secrets, and their history.”
“What else did they tell you?”
James looked around as all the people that had gathered in school circle around him in amazement. A smart grin came over his face as he replied.
“Our Time has come.”
As he said this a large crack could be heard thundering through the forest. As it reached their ears, they noticed a soldier laying slain on the ground about a 100 meters away.
“Contact left!” Another cried as the sounds of battle began to echo through the area.
“It seems that we aren’t the only ones interested in this ship.” Said one of the ISA agents. At the same time Commonwealth troops began to pierce into the left side of the perimeter. With only one platoon and a few tanks and APCs guarding the strange ship, it did not take much for the hostiles to break through. Scrambling for their sidearm’s, the scientists prepared to defend themselves the best they could. However, against the number of hostiles advancing towards them, they would be no match. Another downward turn of events was the entrance of 5 commonwealth tanks into the fray. The Commonwealth Leopard 2 main battle tanks were sharks on the modern battlefield, weighing a good 62.3 tons, and having a max speed of 45 miles per hour, the Leopard 2 was able to bulldoze over any thing in its path. Unfortunately, over 40 scientist were in its path at the moment, and the majority were only armed with service pistols (not much when matched against a tank.) As the enemy tanks pressed towards them, the scientist ran for cover behind anything they could find- chairs, tables, sandbags, etc. The only person who seemed not to fear the oncoming tanks was Lieutenant Kronos, who stood strangely still with his head pointed towards the tanks. Some of the men yelled for Kronos to take cover with them, yet he did not listing. As the tanks got closer, troops manning .50 caliber guns on the turrets pointed their barrels towards the seemingly foolish man. But, without a flinch, Kronos stood In the middle of their path. Within a matter of seconds, if James did not move he would be at the mercy of the oncoming tanks treds. Stretching out his hands, Kronos looked as if he was embracing the nearing tank, instead, in an instant, the tank was lifted off the ground by some strange unknown power. Screams could be heard from inside as the Commonwealth men feared for their lives. With a swing of his arms however, James sent the tank into a collision course with another Leopard not far from it. In a violent crash the two armored vehicles met an explosive end. Unbaffled, James ran towards the Commonwealth troops who stood frozen in amazement behind what was left of the two tanks. Out of fear and panic they began to fire their weapons at the oncoming man- or what they thought was a daemon- for no man has ever had this sort of power. This was one of the reasons for their fear as they spent their bullets in Kronos’ direction. Yet every bullet that attempted to pierce James’ body fell harmlessly to the deck. As James got closer to the Commonwealth troops he jumped high into the air. With the sun behind him, the enemy troops were almost blind to his presence. When he came down however, one unfortunate soldier would meet him face to face, literally. As James’ fist met the soldiers face, the man slumped to the ground. His face was a mangled mess of blood and gore, and most of all, the man was dead. James continued to annihilated the rest of the hostiles soldiers who were now in full retreat towards the woods. Some men abandoned their weapons and sprinted all the way back to their base camp, others just fell to the ground crying in fear for their lives
“Who on Decimus are you” One terrified commonwealth solider asked as James looked down on him.
Without an answer, the man rifle was whisked away by the strange force that Kronos’ controlled. Grasping it, James pointed it at the mans face and pulled the trigger. His head fell to the ground as the blood began to ooze out of his mouth. Throwing down the rifle, James watched as the rest of the troops ran swiftly into the forest. Away from the ‘monster’ that was perusing them.
As James turned around he was met with yet another crowd of on looking scientists.
“Who are you? What are you?” They asked.
For the first time since his event, James looked confused.
“I’m James Kronos, and I am a Photioian.”
“Wait? There hasn’t been a Photioian on Decimus for millions of years. How have you suddenly become one? Have you gone nuts?”
“No, it is true, they sent this ship for your people, so that your name will be revered throughout the galaxy. Everything in the ancients knowledge is locked inside of that ship. Technology thousands of years ahead of us is there as a present from the Gods. With all of this they want you the Decimins to create an Empire that spans the stars, A Grand Decimin Empire. The ancients have restored themselves in me, reforming me as one of their own, so that I may revive them as a race. With my wife I will breed young Photioians and along side your people we will rule the stars as one great people. This is our time.”