NationStates Jolt Archive

One Year Later...

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.: DESTINATION TWENTY MINUTES AWAY AT CURRENT VELOCITY AND HEADING :.

Eric looked at Leon, who then adjusted his glasses and nodded. Their raid had been a sucessful one, and now they were returning home for some much needed rest. Ever since they had taken Steel Isle, the rebels forces had become to scattered. They no longer fought with the military manpower they once had and now mainly raided key bases and supply lines. The Imperials, split in half by Sky Marshall Michael Zephyr's uprising, couldn't do much in return.

The Second Marines had attacked a convoy around an hour ago, slaughtering everyone on board the five military ships and seven civilian ones. The Empire now forced civilians to carry their goods, but the resistance seemed not to care. Eric cared, however, and he winced every time he pulled the trigger on an innocent man, woman, or especially a child.

"How long's it been, Captain?" Commander Eric Vinzer asked, wiping the sweat from his face. The damned climate control was malfunctioning, and it wouldn't go below a certain point. Eric stared out into the freezing darkness of space and sighed.

"Time matters little, Commander," Captain Leon Williams replied. After all, he wasn't from this time. The Captain got out of his seat, walked towards Eric, and sat down. They were the only two in the room. "Whatever happens will be what happens."

"But couldn't you just...?"

"No...the future changes with each passing second. It is impossible to determine from one moment to the next. There is no telling what the outcome of this conflict will be," Leon said.

"...and from the looks of it..." Eric commented. "There is no telling when it will end either..."

"But it will end, Commander," Leon confirmed. "...everything does..."

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Captain Leon Williams
Leader of the 2nd Marines

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Commander Eric Vinzer
XO of the 2nd Marines

"It's still hard to recognize you," Mark laughed over drinks. "Between the eye and the haircut...and your whole body seems different."

"I've gotten back to my Phoenix training," Alexei replied. "It's excellent rehab if you can do it. It is difficult though."

"Recovery always is," Mark said, looking over towards Katrina, who was chatting with her friends. "It's hard on everyone around you as well."

"We better be going," Alexei said, standing. "And remember, you two are still invited to my quarters tomorrow for dinner. You're always welcome."

"And you at our's," Mark responded. "Friends make time pass quickly...and there's been a lot of time to pass."

"Unfortunately my friends have been few and far between these days," Alexei said. "Those who aren't already dead..."

The two men walked over towards Katrina who told Mark that she would meet up with them in a few minutes. The walk back to the living areas was quiet, the effects of the war seen on each stoic face as they passed. In two months it would only be two years, yet it seemed like an eternity, living on the battlefronts, encased in metal like shells ready to explode.

There was a time when this would have bothered Alexei, but his wit and sarcasm had since departed leaving behind only remnants of anger, hate, and fear that subconciously consumed him mind regardless of how well he thought he controlled them.

It was colder than ususal in the living spaces. The winter that came to Steel Isle every four years had snuck up on the rebels quickly and encased the base. Now even the ground was monotone, reflecting the bleak faces of the soldiers. Alexei blinked and the thermal vision in his right optical implant quickly changed to a simple green on black depth perception sight.

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The implant was a scientific marvel, giving him thermal, targeting, night, scanning, and depth vision as well as what used to be called X-ray vision some time ago. Simply put, he could see through most objects. This came in handy most when he would forget where he put something or if he was more bored than usual.

It had been a year since Alexei's last great stand against Dr. Ackerman, and for all intents and purposes he had recovered. But he was now a beaten man. He had failed on his promise of revenge, and the fire that was once ablaze within him had dulled significantly. However there was still hope somewhere within his being...somewhere...

Anger, hate, fear...and then hope. Each emotion perfectly balanced with the others and diminished severly along with all the others. He was not himself anymore, not even a changed version of himself. He was a soul-less soldier. A pawn in a fight between two groups of supermen, who rarely visited the troops anymore. Alexei figured that seeing the soldiers was easy while making progress and marching off to grand battles, but when neither side had lost or won territory in the last year, and the fighting was down to killing civilians who guarded supplies, there was little need for a visit.

Alexei bid Mark farewell as the two approached Alexei's door and Alexei went inside. They would see each other again in a few hours, and that meant that Alexei had a few more hours to kill. Grabbing his gear bag, Alexei made his way to a hologym to perform his training. He was alone...he liked it that way...

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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Lt. Commander Mark Andrews
"Raptor Zero"
15th Fighter Squadron

"Gentlemen," the doctor interrupted. "I cannot help but feel that it is time we shift our focus."

"Does the Emperor send his blessing?" Sky Marshall Adrikov asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Does the Emperor do anything these days?" Dr. Ackerman replied, returning Adrikov's glare. "...of course he allows it."

"What are you suggesting?" General Baine questioned, sitting up straight in his chair.

"This war has gone on for some time now," Dr. Ackerman began. "Much longer than we expected. But we all know that these pitiful rebels have not done it alone. They have had help."

"Tappee?" Adrikov said.

"We had them out of this war," the doctor continued. "I made them see the truth of these rebels. Yet the resistance led an offensive against their own allies...and we took the blame. If these are the tactics that our enemy choses to use..."

"...then we must perform..." Baine said, realizing what the doctor had in mind.

"...equally drastic actions to balance the struggle. We will launch an offensive against Tappee," Dr. Ackerman announced.

"But do we have the...?" Baine questioned.

"We need not destroy Tappee...not yet at least. We merely need to strike fear into their hearts...make them question this foreign war."

"Doctor, this type of assault will leave the Empire wide open for an attack. We're fighting two other sides here. At least one will..."

"QUIET, SKY MARSHALL!" Ackerman said in a loud outburst. He straightened his tie and calmed down. "You worry about the Capital, that is your job after all. Let us worry about the Empire." Baine nodded. "It is in...good hands..."

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Dr. Robert Ackerman
CEO, President, and Lead Developer
NiMBUS Biotechnologies

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Sky Marshall Alek Petrovich Adrikov
Commander of the Imperial Fleet and Marines
Head of Capital Defense

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General Cornelius Baine
New Commander of the Imperial Mobile Infantry

The sharp blade dropped to the floor with a clanking sound as Alexei sat against a tree.

"Computer, end program..."

The tree became a grey wall in the large and empty hologym. Alexei wiped his face with his sleeve.

"Computer, how long have I trained in this session?"

.:3 hours, 43 minutes, 12 seconds, 13 seconds, 14 seconds:.

"Thank you that's good," he replied. He still had about 16 minutes to go. "Computer, begin program Ivanova Omega. Increase gravity level to 4x. Safety on for now."

In front of his eyes appeared the room of his last great fight and in the corner of that room stood his adversary. Alexei grasped his sword tightly in his sweaty palm and slowly walked towards the holographic image of the doctor.

The gravity increase was noticable and Alexei felt sluggish, but now was not the time for random thoughts. He needed to be focused. The doctor rose into the air as he had, searching for any metal to manipulate. Alexei's sword was different, for it was made out of a strong form of plastic and the blade was sharpened diamond. Alexei took another step foward, and the battle began.

Alexei spun the blade around his head and attacked in a downward motion. He then backhanded with his blade and tried stabbing, each time taking a step foward. Each time, Dr. Ackerman countered his blows with a sword of his own. Now the doctor was on the offensive and Alexei walked backwards, defending up, down, up, right, down, down, right, up...

Their swords crossed in front of them for what seemed like an eternity before Dr. Ackerman's began to curve towards Alexei, so Alexei stepped back. Splitting his sword in half, the doctor now had two and he charged with both pointing towards Alexei.

Alexei slashed the one in Dr. Ackerman's right hand down to Alexei's own right and then barely avoided the sword in the doctor's left by tilting his head back. Alexei tried attacking with an upwards motion but Dr. Ackerman deflected it and then just missed Alexei's midsection.

Alexei then took more of a fencer's stance, deflecting the two swords with short and quick movements of his wrist, slowly moving backwards until he felt his back touch the wall of the holographic room. The doctor thrusted with his right and Alexei again barely avoided the blow. Instead, he swung quickly and cut off Dr. Ackerman's right arm. He turned back just in time to see the sword in the doctor's left hand go through his neck.

"GODDAMNIT!" Alexei screamed, freezing the program. "Computer, restart and resume. Add different variables."

The scene shifted once again to Dr. Ackerman standing in the corner of the room, arms intact. But this time, a man in black clothes and black sunglasses crashed down through the ceiling and engaged the holographic doctor. Alexei stood back in amazement. Almost effortlessly, the man fought Dr. Ackerman and quickly disposed of him.

Perhaps this was the variable. Perhaps the computer was trying to prepare him for anything. Either way, Alexei got into his stance as the man looked at him, rose into the air, and flew at him. Faster than he could see, Alexei was against the wall on the other side of the room. He wiped his mouth...blood was dripping from it.

"Computer, I thought safties were engaged."

.:Affirmative, all safties are in place:.

"How the fuck did..."

But now Alexei was through the wall of the building and flying in the holographic sky. All of a sudden he stopped, and he could once again see the man. Alexei was promptly thrown down towards the earth and went through it into the earth.

.:Program Failure. Immediate shutdown initiated:.

And so the grey room was back...but the blood on Alexei lip and the bruises on his body were not gone...and neither was the man.

"Who are you?" Alexei asked, wiping his lip.

"Does it really matter?"

"What did you do to my program?" Alexei had seen this man fly in 4x gravity and easily despose of a holographic enemy that has never been defeated.

"I did nothing of the sort," the man said. He appeared almost as if he was a statue. "Although it seems that it cannot take the punishment you recieved. Perhaps a flaw in the design parameters."

"Bullshit," Alexei replied standing up. "No real person could do that...and you're obviously not fake..."

"Honestly Alexei, what is real?" the man asked. He seemed to be rolling his eyes behind his black glasses. "Is it what you see? Of all people I'd expect you to know that answer. You say that no real person could do that, and yet again of all people you were almost killed by a man who can, and fight along side another equally capable."

Alexei squinted his eyes. Was the room getting brighter? "You're with NiMBUS..."

"Exactly," the man replied, and Alexei felt his pulse quicken. Letting go of all rational thought, Alexei swung at the man, but merely passed right through him. "You're not alone Alexei...but you must be careful. You know not what awaits you, what he's capable of...or what you're capable of..."

"What are you?"

"I am a Phantom..."

"A ghost?"

"...it seems that way at times."

"Is that why I can..."

"No...this is just a projection."

"But how did you...?"

"In time, Alexei..."

Alexei just stared, dumbfounded at the man as he slowly disappeared.

"Alexei..."

"Alexei..."

"Alexei..."

"ALEXEI!"

Snapping out of it, Alexei turned and opened the door. Joseph Frost was standing there waiting.

"Alexei its bad enough that you reserve these things for four hours at a time," Frost said. "But your time ended over twenty minutes ago. I have less than fourty left!"

Alexei nodded and left the room. The halls seemed different...more alive. But it wasn't the people...it was something about him...

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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Lieutenant Joseph Frost
Vehicle Specialist/Sniper,
1st Marines

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A "Phantom"

*tag for later posting*

A motion at the foot of the bed caused Emily to wake up, through the darkness she saw Henry sitting at the foot of the bed. His elbows where rested on his knee’s, and he was holding his face in his hands. Shifting around in the bed she reached her arms around him, he seemed unphased by her presence. Resting her head on his shoulder she spoke softly to the man that she loved. “Your going back aren’t you?”.

It had only been four months since Henry had returned from the Orion Sector, as a member of the First X he had been the Tribunals representative there. However, since the fall of Steel Isle, the Tribunal had recalled him. Since his return the two had spent all most every waking moment together, but Emily had always sensed the something was bothering him, that he had unfinished business.

They had meet in Tatania, during what had become known in Tappee as “the Cleansing”, when NiMbus had attempted to destroy the city in order to cover up it activities. Emily had been in the city when the attack occurred, and Henry ha been part of the team that was sent in to investigate, they where part of a handful of survivors that made it out of the city alive. And it was there that the two had fallen in love, the bond that they had formed with each other, and the other survivors was a strong one. She knew that Henry had sworn revenge on those that where responsible for the attack, and at the beginning she had wanted the same thing, but now things had changed. All she wanted was to be happy with the man she loved.

It took Henry a moment to answer her question “They’ve asked me to go back, its my duty” his words were emotionless and cold. He had grown weary of this conflict, wanting it to end, to finally find some peace in his life.

Emily could feel her body collapse, as the words came out his mouth “please don’t go, stay her with me, please” She knew him well enough to know that he always placed his duty above all else, but she could at least try “I’m pregnant”

Letting out a sigh Henry let his chin fall until it almost touched his chest. “I am sorry” he said as got up to his feet. Walking over the nightstand her grabbed his jacket “I have to ship out with in the hour, I’ll call you the first chance I get.”. Putting his arms into the sleeves of the jacket, he opened the door, and started to make his way out. Henry paused for a moment as if to say something, but never turned around. He stood there for what seemed an eternity then closed the door.

The sound that the door made echoed through the room then was followed by silence. Silences that pierced Emily’s very soul, she was now alone. Alone to both her thoughts and her tears


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Emily Williams

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Henry Kobe

Jade sat back in her chair taking a moment for the tedious paper work that consisted of her day. A picture on the corner of her desk drew her attention. The picture itself had been taken long ago, it was of her and her family joining a summer’s day, they all looked so happy. The war in the Orion Sector had cost Tappee lots, how many families had lost someone, a brother, a sister, And she was no exception. Her husband had been killed in an attempt by NiMbus to control her, fearing for her children safety she had hid them for NiMbus prying eye’s. However, looking at the picture remaindered her how much she actually missed them. She had never knew her parents while she was growing up, and didn’t want the same for her children. It wasn’t bad for Jason, he was too young to know what was going on, but Makenzie was old enough to miss her mother.

A knock on the door caused her to come back to reality. “Come in” she said loud enough so that the person on the other side could come in. She looked up in time to see Jon Anerton make his way through the door and take his seat.

Jon was Tappee’s President, a position that formally belong to her father, and she had taken Jon’s former position as the Tribunal Chair. Jon had taken the position of President just days before all this had began, his presidency had known only war, but then as she could recall the same thing had occurred when her father had taken his position. “You missed our meeting this morning” Jon mentioned casually, he knew that with every thing that was going on she was under a lot of pressure. Besides the lasting that he want to do was make her angry, the last time he did that he ended up with four broken ribs. “So I just thought that I would come down and see you”

Jade grabbed a folder and tossed it over to Jon “I’ve been busy with report” Jon opened the folder and began to read “I’ve decided to authorize the Sentinel Program, I want to you to give that to General William directly, and see that he carries it out directly. When can we expect to have the new forces ready to go.”

Jon was surprised at how direct she was today, normally there would have been some idle chat between the two, but things had changed since Cal’s death, Jade seemed much colder in her personality, it was like a part of her had died with him. Deep down Jon could feel his stomach turn, since it was him that had ultimately been responsible for his death. But he could show his emotions now; he tried to move the conversation along “As for our forces it wouldn’t be along until Space Command gives them operational status. As for General Williams he would have a problem with the Sentinel program itself, but he might have a problem with the team that you put together, more in particular who you have choose to lead the team.”

Jade leaned forward across her desk so that she much closer to Jon then she knew he was comfortable with “I don’t care, it not his call, it mine. And like it or not she is the only one in this entire country that has any experience with this. Therefore she was the only choose that we could make.” Jade sat back again making her self more comfortable “Now if you’ll excuse me I have lots of work to do”


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Jade Allenson

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Jon Anerton

“General Williams Your daughter is her to see you” Said the aid from the safety of the door. She knew that the General had been in a bad mood for most of the day, and had no idea why, she could only hope that a visit from the Generals daughter could easy the mood.

Emily walked pass the aid and in to the office, as she did the aid closed the door so that the two could have their conversation in private.

The office itself wasn’t very large, but Emily wasn’t sure if it just appeared that way due to all the clutter in the room. Papers and books on top of a number of drawer lined the walls. Any opening on the walls where cover by pictures. Her father was in most of them, pictures that were taking in various places that her father had served, but in a few where pictures of the family. She was in some, but most where of her brothers from such events as their graduation from the military academy. However, out of all the graduation picture of the Generals children her was missing, all her brothers and sister had continued the families military tradition except her, she had gotten her PhD in genetics. And her father had all but disowned for it, and it wasn’t until she was nearly killed at Tatania that the two had spoke. After Tatania they had tried to mend the relationship between them, and that may she believed that she was here today.

General Williams stood from his chair and slammed his fists in to the top of desk in a fit of anger, the sound echoed through the room. “What you didn’t think that I wouldn’t find out about this!”

Emily could hear the anger in his voice, and to be honest she was rather surprised at his reaction. “I thought that you of all people would have approved!” she yelled back at him.
His reaction reminded her of the time when she was younger and had broken curfew. “I am the only person that has any experience with this type of thing, and that why they want me to go.”

“This is about him, isn’t it” The General shot back

Emily clenched her fists in her anger, he was talking to her like she was a child “This has nothing to do with him. The Tribunal feels that if the Imperials are backed into a corner that they might use it, and they want me there to help deal with it.” Deep down she knew that he was right, normally she would never have taken such assignment, but her pride prevented her from giving him the satisfaction.

Sitting back down the General let out a sigh “The Tribunal seems to agree with you on this issue, and there is nothing I can do about.” The Tribunal was the ultimate authority in Tappee, and once they made a decision there was nothing that anyone could, even the Chairman of the Joint chiefs. Emily turned to leave “Wait, before you leave I have something for you” Emily turned in shock; she had expect something like this. Reaching into his desk he pulled out a pistol. “Here, this pistol has been in the family for generations. It is customary for a Williams to carry it to their battle, and now I’m giving to you” he hand her the pistol, it was older gun, it used a projectile based munitions, compared the energy based weapon used now. “May it protect you when you most need it”

Emily stood there holding the gun, she was speechless, and she didn’t know what to say. This was a side of her father that she had never seen; he had always kept his emotions hidden from other.

Standing again he walked around his desk and gave her a hug. “I know that you will make me proud”

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General Robert Williams

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Emily Williams

“Admiral, how do you think this will end?” asked the young Ensign, both the Admiral and her had been staring out at the stars, and the planet Aesis below from the FA’s observation deck. There was a time where she had known the answer to her own question, but small seemly small change had thrown the outcome of this conflict in to question.

“I would like to think that we are going to be the ones that win this ensign Wetherspoon” answered the Admiral casually “However, I’m sure that our enemy is saying the same thing at this moment in time. There are a number of variables that one has to consider, and I’m sure that there are variable that we don’t even know of.” Dodalla glanced over at Wetherspoon “There was an old earth saying, ‘it’s not over until the fat lady sing’”

Wetherspoon could help but notice the smile on the Admirals face. “You know Admiral, this war, and it Hero’s will be remembered long after the fighting ends”

Turning her attention away from the start and toward Wetherspoon she addressed the young ensigns comment. “There are two types of people that history remembers. Those who go looking for greatness, and those who greatness finds.”

“And which are you?” asked Wetherspoon

“Neither” answer the Admiral, “I’m just here doing my duty. How about you ensign, how you think history will remember you.” Dodalla rather enjoyed turning people question in them, it prevented them from asking thing that they shouldn’t

“Trust me Admiral, I’ve gone to great length to make sure that history doesn’t remember me” Wetherspoon could help but chuckle on the inside on the cryptic message in her statement.

Dodalla shot Wetherspoon a rather confused looked “That a rather odd..” out of the corner of her eye she saw Henry Kobe make his way into the room “answer ensign. However, we should talk some more, but if you will excuse us Commander Kobe and myself have something’s to discuss.”

Giving the Admiral salute Wetherspoon turned to make her way out of the room pausing she turned to face the admiral. “Admiral Dodalla I believe that in your case it would be the later.” With that she turned and left

“What was that about?” asked Henry confused.

“Oh nothing” answered Dodalla, shaking her head “Just have a casual conversation with one of my new officer that’s all. How was your leave?”

“Not bad, wasn’t long enough” reply Henry jokingly. He made have never admitted to Emily but he was glad to be back in the thick of thing. It wasn’t that he didn’t enjoy being with her, it was just that he felt that there was still work that had to be done. “Heard that you had some fun in the Incol system with some of the local…” some thing caught his attention. About two kilometres from the ship, a transport ship dropped out of hyperspace. Henry had reviewed the Logistical logs for the day and was not aware of any incoming ships. “who the hell is that?”

Watching ship make its drop out of hyperspace, she knew who it was, and was rather surprised that Henry didn’t. “That the Sentinel group, they were sent here by the Tribunal, and are working directly under their supervision.”

“What!” yelled Henry. He after all was the Tribunal representative here, all information going in and out of this sector to the Tribunal was suppose to go through him. There had to be a serious reason as to why he was informed. “Who are they, and what are they doing here?” He could feel the anger swelling in side of him

Startled by the turn of event she tried to answer his question. “Well I don’t know, I was only told that they would be arriving about an hour ago, that why I asked you here. They should be arriving in shuttle bay four, why don’t we go don’t we go down and find out.”

Henry turned on his heel and stormed off, Dodalla struggled to keep up with him. Several minutes later the two made their way in to the shuttle bay. The Transports crew had already started unloading the ship of its contents. Henry grabbed the nearest person by the collar “Who’s in charge here”

The poor man tried to shudder out some word, but couldn’t get them out. Instead in pointed out a person standing directly behind Henry.

“My name is Commander Henry Kobe and I demand..” Henry said while spinning around to face the person that the man had indicated was in charge. However, upon discover who it was stopped in mid sentence.

“You demand what!” answered Emily, with her hands at her hips. She wanted to reach out and give Henry a hug of affection, but given the situation she felt that he might not appreciated the gesture. She soon realized that Henry had not yet responded “What, cats got your tongue.

“No it just that..” it was now Henry’s turning to be fumbling with his words. Taking a moment he closed his eyes’ then opened them when he had collected himself. “Alright, lets start from the beginning. What are you doing here, and why wasn’t told”

“You were not told cause the Tribunal felt that you would object to me being, and quiet frankly I agree with them.” Henry gave her a bit of a glare, but she just ignored it. “I am here because the Tribunal feels that if the Empire is backed into a corner they might use the virus that NiMbus used at Tatania, and we both know first hand what that’s like. Since I was at Tatania they feel that makes me the most qualified. My orders are simple, if the virus is released I am to take what ever steps are necessary in containing as well as obtaining a sample.”

Henry could feel the anger building inside again, this time he controlled it. He had always attempted to control his anger in Emily’s presence, Taking deep breath he counted down from ten to zero inside his head. “And what does your father have to say about this?” asked Henry.

It was now Emily’s turn to shot Henry a glare. “He has no say in this, as do you. Now if you will excuse me, there is much work to be done” she turned and began to stormed off.

Admiral Dodalla could help but chuckle, she was could friends with General Williams, Emily’s father. She was surprised at how much Emily was like her father. “Miss Williams, I trust that you will join us for dinner in the officers lounge.”

“She has no right to be here” scolded Henry. “She not military

“She has every right to serve her country as you and I do.” Shot Dodalla back “You would do well to remember that. You both suffered the same horrors at Tatania, and you both feel the need to somehow right the wrongs that you faced there. I can’t imagine what it’s like for you and the others survivors from that incident. But I do know the only why that any of you are getting closure, is when NiMbus is finally brought down.”

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Ensign Wetherspoon

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Admiral Dodalla

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Henry Kobe

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Emily Williams

"Relax, commander," Pierce said, taking a sip of his brandy and smiling. "It's one of the few times we do." James Pierce was in a giant, foam-filled hot tub. A harp and a flute were being played in a corner by two beautiful women. Dave Bivens, General Michael Sherman, and General Jack Valkare were sitting at a table exchanging stories, while shifting their eyes from each other to the musicians.

The tune was calming, and Alexei enjoyed the mood it set, and yet he felt uncomfortable among these, the elite of the Resistance. Luxury was not what Alexei needed now. He needed peace...and not necessarily peace in the war...but instead peace of mind.

"That's alright," he replied to his leader. "If it is acceptable, I'll stand."

"Suit yourself," Pierce said, setting down his glass and slowly swimming towards the edge of the pool nearest Alexei and the others. The foam parted as he moved, gently flowing around his neck and rejoining once more behind him. "Either way, we have business to attend to."

"General Valkare here has to make an interesting trip today, Commander," Pierce began. "He has to go and gather information on Tappee's new program designed as a defense against a biological assault from the empire. It has been deemed by the Tappee as the "Sentinel" program. While he's there, he is to also meet with a certain Admiral Dodalla as well as the head of the Sentinel program in the Orion Sector, the daughter of a Tappee general."

"Sir," Alexei said. "With all due respect, I fail to see how I am involved, unless you wish me to escort the General throughout the meetings."

"In a way," Pierce continued. "This general's daughter...she is an old friend of your's...a certain Emily Williams." But the name meant nothing to Alexei, and his face seemed to show his confusion. "She was a fellow survivor at Tatania."

So it suddenly all came back to Alexei. She was the first one (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=103594&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=27) they had met at Tatania. She was at times the reason he had pressed on so hard...her, Henry, and Chris....but Chris wasn't coming back.

"We need someone who's able to talk to her," Pierce said. "We need to find out what she thinks about it. They can give us all the reports in the world...but you can't write down emotions...you can't send over a gut feeling."

"I really don't know her that well..." Alexei said, trying to get out of this. He wasn't a diplomat...he never wanted to be...

"Well we don't know her at all," General Sherman replied. "Talk about your experiences...things you went through..."

"We try not to think about it, General," Alexei snarled. General Spencer squinted to see how serious Alexei was.

"Regardless," Bivens said, sensing and breaking the tension. "You, General Valkare, and some guards will be going over there in ten minutes time. The guards won't be needed on an Coalition Vessel, so after you're done talking with Ms. Williams, you may go hang out with them...and write your report."

"A report?"

"We...could pay you for this..." Pierce said convincingly. "A nice bonus, I'm sure. It is above and beyond your call of duty."

"No," General Sherman interrupted, glaring at Alexei. "He's a Marine and an ex-Phoenix. He knows how to follow orders. You are dismissed, Commander."

Alexei quickly saluted and walked out through the door. General Valkare said his goodbyes and followed suit. Catching up to Alexei, who was walking rather fast, the General put his hand on Alexei's shoulder.

"Don't worry," the General from Esthar said. "I agree with you."

"Excuse me, sir?"

"This is war time...not party time," Valkare continued.

"I didn't say anything, sir."

"Sure you did," the General replied, smiling.

"Whatever you say, sir."

"Oh and Commander," Valkare continued as the two entered into the shuttle, followed by the four guards. "Don't give Sherman a second thought. Put frankly the man's a bastard," the General said as the emergency doors closed. "I don't like him either."

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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Sir James Pierce
Political Head of the Resistance

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Dave Bivens
President/CEO of Bivens Co.

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General Michael Sherman
Commander of the Mobile Infantry

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

Henry and Admiral Dodalla stood side-by-side waiting for the resistance shuttle to dock with the FA, they were soon joined by another.

“Your late” snarled Henry, as Emily stood next to Admiral Dodalla. “You wanted the job, so might as well act the part.”

Admiral Dodalla snickered to herself silently; the two had done nothing but biker since Emily’s arrival. Dinner had done nothing but to spark a rather heated argument, and it was clear that neither side was going to give. Dodalla felt as if she was a parent such between two fighting children, and with their guests about to arrive she had no choice but to step “I don’t care what the two of you do in your own time, but I will not tolerate this action on my ship while we have visitors, not on my ship do you understand. Or do I have to send the both you to your rooms” she allowed her self a bit of smile.

Henry was taken back by her comment then lashed back “What, you think that is funny?”

By this time Dodalla was grinning from ear to ear “Of course I do” Henry went to object but Dodalla interrupted him before he could say a word “don’t test me young man” she said in her best mother voice. Out of the corner of her eye she could see that Emily was laughing.

As the shuttle made it’s way in to the launch bay, Emily took a deep breath and straighten her dress, after all the Admiral was right. Like it or not they were now Tappee ambassadors, and there action would reflect the country.

As the shuttle touched down an electromagnetic shield was created at the shuttle bay entrance, and the shield that was in front of the three was dropped. With the shield dropped air was now allowed to fill the empty vacuum, for a moment it swirled about in the shuttle bay like a great wind, then was gone.

It wasn’t long until the occupants of the shuttle made their way off. One of which Emily recognized. At first she didn’t realize he was, it had been so long since the two had last seen each other. He looked so different from what she could remember, but then again was remember that war had a thing of doing that to a person. In her excitement she called out to him “Alexei!” but quickly caught a glare from both Henry, and the Admiral. She had spoken out of place and knew it.

Extending her hand to the man standing before her, Dodalla lowered her head ever so slightly “General Valkare, I’ve heard so much about. Your quite the pirate hunter I’m told.”

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Admiral Dodalla

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Henry Kobe

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Emily Williams

The General smiled and shook the lady's hand. Woman or man, she was an Admiral, and her handshake reinforced that fact. Taking his hand back, Valkare rubbed his chin. He had shaved for the first time in days about a half an hour ago, and it was still stinging. Pirate hunter, eh? "Just for sport," he laughed.

Alexei caught himself off guard as a smile crept its way onto his face. He then nodded towards Henry, his comrade from long ago...or at least two years. "It's good to see you two..." he said, however his words were void of emotion. Sure it was great to see two old friends...but how many had he lost? Still...he would do his job.

That was his problem, and he knew it. He was beyond taking work home with him...for he lived where he worked. Alexei didn't feel like enjoying himself now...not when so much had happened, and so much was at stake.

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

Admiral Dodalla allowed her self a bit of a laugh at the Generals comment, she found him to be somewhat charming. “Tell me General what brings you to honour with a visit, I was rather surprised to hear of your arrival. Is it possible that after all this time that we are finally thinking of moving forward with resuming and work that we started so long ago?”

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Admiral Dodalla

The General laughed a sad sort of laugh and shook his head. "James...er...Sir Pierce requires information regarding the Sentinel program. Perhaps it is the key that will let us move foward." His face became serious suddenly as the tone of his voice dropped. "Every second the Empire grows stronger...while we stay the same. We cannot idlely sit by and watch the slim advantage we had, momentum, be crushed under the weight of Steel Butterfly."

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

“Well General I shall direct you to the company of Miss Williams here” Admiral Dodalla motioned towards Emily. “And with that I’m afraid that I must now leave you that I do not have the security clearance required to take part in the conversation.” With that she turned and left them to be alone.

Emily found her self a bit nervous, she wasn’t prepared to deal with all this, she was rather intimidate that a foreign general was asking to talk to her. “What would like to know General?”

Henry cut “Perhaps we could talk somewhere more comfortable, and Emily could answer your questions in the way there, this after all is a high security matter”

"Lead the way," Valkare replied, extending his hand. "We have much to talk about." The guards went about their business while Alexei and General Valkare followed Henry and Emily down the hall.

Slowly, Alexei's emotions were getting the better of him. "So..." he asked Emily and Henry. "What have you two been up to? It's been...so long..."

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

Henry began leading the group through a series of corridors.

“We’re having a baby” replied Emily with a hint of excitement on her voice.

“And yet you still seem to have the need to be here” replied Henry, as opened the door to the Conference. He quickly realized that this was a topic best to be discussed later, and attempted to change the subject. “Actually we’ve been really good. How about you Alexei how have you been, heard that you had a run in with the good doctor”

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Henry kobe

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Emily Williams

"Hmm..." Alexei grunted, nodding his head. It was a topic that he'd rather not discuss. He had failed...and the defeat was more than embarassing. It had crushed more than his body...his spirit was defeated as well. No longer feeling joy in life, Alexei simply fought on mindlessly, steps away from suicidal. His emotions retreated back into his hollow soul, tired once more.

General Valkare stared at Alexei for some time waiting for more of a response, but when it became apparent that he was not going to say anything further at this time, the General congradulated the couple on their future child.

Valkare had always wanted a child himself. A son and a daughter to be exact...but he didn't think that war was the best place to raise a family. Noting that this wasn't the best time to voice his views on the matter, he kept his opinions quiet. After all, this Emily person had to like them...and Alexei definately wasn't pulling his weight.

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

Realizing that he probably mentioned a rather touchy subject he decided that it was not best to push it. Alexei seemed an empty shell compared to the man that Henry once knew. He gave Emily a bit of glance indicating for her to start the briefing.

“Fear that in term of this briefing you are at a bit of a disadvantage General, as you are the only person in this room that his not witnessed the horrors of the Virus first hand. Basically it has the ability to reanimate the dead, and some of those that become infected are given extraordinary strength, and the ability to control magnetic forces.” The horrors at Tatania where still painful even to this day. She looked deeply into the General eye’s. “As you can imagine the military applications are great, imagine troop moral if they had to fight their undead companions, where all those that died of the field of battle would turn against us. After the fall of steel Isle, the Tribunal feared that once the Imperial forces were in a no win situation that they might use the Virus. We started the development of the ‘Sentinel Program’ in which we simulate an outbreak via holo simulation, and trained members of the SX to contain the breakout. However, we’ve never been able to get a living sample of the Virus, so we have been able to create an anti virus. So the only way to contain an outbreak is to destroy all possible infection. As the Director, I’ve sent here in case an outbreak. In addition to that we are also going to see if we can obtain a living sample by what ever means are nessary.”

"Wouldn't you have a sample in that city of your's?" the General asked. Alexei looked at Henry and Emily for a while before speaking.

"It was destroyed...completely..." he said.

"By whom?" Valkare continued. "The Tappee?"

"No..." Alexei replied. "The Imperials...NiMBUS..."

General Valkare put his head in his hands and sighed. "Now I feel that you two are at a disadvantage," he said to Henry and Emily. "This virus...you only know what it does...not how it works. There are hundreds of different strands...and that's only what we know of. The Q-virus and all its forms spread rapidly through any means possible. Perhaps the virus unleashed on Tatania was a lesser form." He looked up, getting strange looks from the others. A lesser form? Surely there could not be much worse. "The virus, before NiMBUS got ahold of it...it killed millions. My predecessors were forced to abandon our Earth colony and our colony on Earth's moon. Everyone died. NiMBUS Biotechnologies...saved the Orion Sector from the virus. They alone cured it in its original state, as they did with AIDS, Cancer, and all sorts of other terminal diseases. They were our saviors...and it went straight to their heads. A living sample would only infect everyone around it, and spread...horrifically. They changed the virus so much...there are so many different..."

"There's already a cure," Alexei said out of nowhere, snapping back into life. "A master cure...he...he has it."

"Then we take it from him!" Valkare said, stopping in his tracks. Once again, Alexei turned cold. A deep depression swept over him, and it was easily seen.

"That, General," Alexei said. "...would be impossible..."

Valkare was speechless, for he knew Alexei to be right...

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

“Nothing is Impossible” responded Emily ending the silence “Just improbable. Everyone has some type weakness, it just a matter of finding it”

Henry thought for minute “greed, and arrogance” said under his breath. “The good doctor has proved on a number of occasion that he can use the Empire to protect NiMbus, maybe we can use that to draw him out.” He glanced over at Alexei, "remember how we were able to beat Chris, maybe we could do the same to the doctor, it might slow him down long enough for us to get in and get the antidote.”

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Henry Kobe

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Emily Williams

He doesn't understand...

"There is no comparison between the two..." Alexei said. "If we 'slowed him down' it would be the end of us. We'd die in vain, and be remembered as those who tried and failed."

There's no way they could understand...

"Henry...Emily...you two have something to live for. Don't throw that away."

...and yet...

"You have to listen to me..."

...how can I believe...

"...there's..."

...that there is...

"...no way to win."

...no way to win?

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

“She staying right here that for sure” shot Henry at Alexei’s comment

Emily looked around the room. “I know that I may be the only person here that is not military, but if what you say Alexei is true, then we have already let him win. To many people have died so far for this; let’s not let their deaths be for nothing. Where there’s a will there’s way.” There was a bit of passion in her voice “It has been said that evil only wins when good men do nothing”

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Henry Kobe

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Emily Williams

[OOC: After this I'm out man...It's pretty late. I should be on tomorrow.]

"...you assume we're good?" Alexei asked, shaking his head.

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

In the inky black depths of space, over sixty-six million kilometers away from Planet Aesis, the massive two-point-seven kilometer bulk of the Superdreadnought HMS Fearless stood silently. It was the flagship of the 3rd Battlesquadron of the Clairmont Space Navy, and in the past twelve months its crew and the ship itself had seen more battle than any other ship in the history of the Protectorate (which was not supprising when the fact ,that the Protectorate hadnt yet been fully involved in any large-scale wars, was taken into account).

It was 1 AM shipboard time, and the time of the fourth watch. The ship was devoid of the most hussle and activity with most of the crew being asleep. The Fearless itself hadnt been in action in the last two weeks after a relatively short but bloody skirmish against an Imperial Task Force that had stumbled upon 1st Task Group of the 3rd Battlesquadron. The battle had indeed been short, but the Fearless still had a few deep and ugly gashes in her starboard broadside where Imperial energy weapons had punched thru the sidewall and ripped in to the heavy armor plating. Two destroyers and a Light Cruiser hadnt been as lucky, and they had been wiped out of the universe with no survivors at all. But once the 1st Task Group had gotten within energy battery range of the Imperials, the casualties had quickly piled upon them as well. The massive Grasers of the Fearless had ripped apart two of the smaller Imperial vessels quite quickly with the rest of the Task Group pounding the remaining ships. In the end, both the Imperials and the 1st Task Group had left the area, but neither had been spared of casualties.

Fleet Admiral Honor Harrington remembered that day all too well. She remembered the Destroyers Linnet and Borealis disappearing in bright flashes as their reactors went critical. She remembered the Light Cruiser Saladin being ripped apart from the middle as a barrage of Imperial energy fire struck her dead center. She felt all those lost lives as a sense of emptiness, one that had grown when more and more of her people died in battle. It was impossible for her to avoid that feeling, it was a part of who she was. But she still was the Commander of thousands of more people, people whose lives depended on her and the decisions she made, and she buried any doubt she might have had in order to make the kind of decisions that would keep her people alive.

The past twelve months had been hard. The 3rd Battlesquadron had been left on its own devices here to the Orion Sector. There was a steady income of depletable munitions from Sol as well as other supplies, but re-inforcements had been practically non-existant. During the entire time Harrington and her force had been here, only six ships had arrived as re-inforcement. A Battlecruiser, Two Heavy Cruisers, Two Destroyers and a single Light Cruiser. And that was not enough to replace the losses. The first months had been the worst. The amount of people in the CSN ,who had combat experience, was extremely low and altough the personnel of the 3rd Battlesquadron were well trained and hammered into a cohesive fighting force, they had no experience of real battle and thus the losses had been higher in the start. But the men and women had learned, and the losses werent as bad lately as they had been in the beginning, which did not make the deaths any easier to endure for Honor Harrington.

This war needed to end, and it needed to end soon. And the only way to do that would be to crush the Imperials. And the only way to do that would be to gain a decisive momentum of advance, preferrably with a large scale assault. Harrington thought of the options, she really needed to talk with the Resistance High Command and get some intel.


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Fleet Admiral Honor Harrington
3rd Battlesquadron CSN

Emily Glanced over at Henry giving him a rather confused look, but she would have to ask him about Alexei’s comment later. “Then what would you have us do then” she looked over at the General “It sound as if we are just going to sit here and allow him to win”

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Henry Kobe

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Emily Williams

"What's that?"

"We're getting orders to pull out Sir."

"To pull.. I want that message in my office now."

"Yes sir."

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

Colonel Wesley Tse slumped in his office chair. The orders had been real. After all this time of sitting around doing nothing, they were finally going to pull out right before what seemed to be a gathering of a large offensive, probably to take one of the core worlds.

"Stupid politics..."

There was trouble brewing at home, intelligence had noticed some kind of activity going on below the normal criminal organizations. Every task'ed military force was being pulled back home.

"God damn it... I guess there's no choice."

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

On the command center again, the Colonel strode up to the Comm section. "Lt. Maya?"

"Yes sir?" she answered.

"I want a short message sent to Pierce. Make it short and sweet, something about being sorry about having to leave, but having to because of internal troubles back home."

"Yes sir."

Tse nodded before turning on his heal and walking away.

-----------

The message sent out read more like a personal memo than a official notice. But then, Canada-Germany was not officially there anyways.

To: Pierce

We have recived orders to make best speed for home and are thus unable to fullfil our commitments here. We apologize for any inconveniance our departure might cause, but are unable to prevent it due to the rumblings of political trouble back home. Your ships will be returned in the best shape possible... hopefully.

From: Guardian Protecter Jee Leng Tan, Canada-Germany

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Colonel Wesley Tse,
Regiment CO, Nin'er
(N)Enabled Regiment

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Lieutenent Maya Jenson
Comm Tech
(M)Enabled Regiment

"Miss Williams, I'm a military man by nature, and also a rather huge fan of baseball," Valkare said, scratching his chin. Alexei turned and shot him an odd look. "Close games, while the most exciting, are the worst. You're always two or so batters away from blowing everything. The best scenario is to blow the other team out of the water. What we have here is a close game, Miss Williams. However, while tensions and blood pressures are high, our game is seriously lacking in excitement. We need to drive the runs home...either that or go down swinging. What we need is a direct strike at the core of the Empire...Steel Butterfly." Valkare paused for effect and then continued. "It has been an option on the table for some time now....however Pierce is somewhat hesitant to use it."

"If it failed...it would almost insure our failure..." Alexei mused.

"But if it were to succeed..." The General replied. The balance would shift dangerously in our favor."

Alexei blinked, for he hadn't slept well for months, and before him were bodies, as far as he could see. He was lying there, in the field of death, staring at a dark sky with only the dimmest light escaping darkness's grasp. The corpses were mangled, littered across the ground in a mass grave, piled on top of each other. Alexei stood, but his feet sliced into the flesh and he sunk down through the bodies until everything was dark. He tried to catch his breath, but he couldn't breath. Struggling among death, he gasped for air to fill his empty lungs, but not even the rotting stench of decay entered his body.

"ALEXEI!" General Valkare shouted, shaking his shoulder. Alexei opened his eyes, his head shaking, and stared out of the bottoms of his eyelids at the General. "You don't look well. Perhaps we should take you back and get you checked out." Henry and Emily nodded, seeming to agree.

Valkare helped Alexei to the door, but before he let it close behind him, he turned once more to the two people from Tappee. "I need support in this. I can't convince anyone alone." And although the General knew not if the two foreigners even agreed with him, now was the time to start spreading the idea.

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

Mark's eyes told Katrina what she wanted to know. Alexei was nearly an hour late for dinner, and Mark was worried. However, Katrina didn't feel hungry anymore.

"I worry about him," she said, putting her hand over his. His hand was cold, and it startled her for a moment. "...and you..."

"Don't," Mark replied, looking up. "At least not about me..."

"You wanna go find him?" Katrina asked. Once again, Mark's eyes told her the answer. No one talked much these days anyhow, but Katrina still had a way of knowing exactly what Mark wanted, just like before. After all, they were in love...or at least that's what she kept telling herself.

Truthfully, their relationship hadn't moved foward for almost a year. Her rehabilitation brought them closer, but it was only a happy dream in a dreary reality. Now it almost seemed as if they stayed together out of necessity...or out of habit.

They both longed for the days of a more firery romance, or at least a rekindled version of the dull spark they now shared. The flame had all but died, yet still they were close, almost inseperable. It made little sense to either of them, or to anyone else who stopped to take notice, but regardless they pressed on, from day to day, in each other's arms...at least physically.

Mark left their quarters, and left Katrina to a hot meal, which she now could share with herself. Mark was slipping away, becoming another mindless zombie roaming the halls of the soul-less base. She shuddered as she invisioned Mark a real zombie, yearning for flesh. Mark desired little these days. Katrina realized that it was now up to her, but she had yet to realize anything she could do to change the situation.

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Lt. Commander Mark Andrews
"Raptor Zero"
15th Fighter Squadron

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Lieutenant Katrina Brady
"Raptor 1"
15th Fighter Squadron

"It hurts...doesn't it?"

"Everyone's hurting..."

"But it hurts you more...am I right?"

"Many things lead to my pain."

"No Alexei...everything leads to it..."

They looked a little fuzzy, but he could tell they were there. Concerned looks were nothing new to Alexei, but directed at him, they made him feel uneasy. After reassuring everyone that he was fine, his pleas for normalcy falling on deph ears, he was once again alone.

He had come to find comfort in loneliness. Alone, he could think without being constantly interrupted by others. He seemed to interrupt himself often enough these days. That and the man in the black sunglasses.

The man had gotten inside of his program, and now inside of his mind. How he did this, Alexei was unsure, but the man's presence could be felt everywhere he went.

The daydreams had to be the worse, however, with the recent field of bodies being one of many. They seemed so real, perhaps because they, like life, were always depressing.

"I look like shit," Alexei thought out loud as he gazed into the mirror. His body was fit, his looks attractive, and yet his eyes seemed to carry the sadness of an empire gasping for its last breaths as it drowned in the sea of time.

Alexei threw his fist through the glass, shattering the mirror, and sending it crashing to the floor. Dr. Ackerman didn't care if the Empire still stood or not after this was finished. The worse part was...no one could do anything about it...

And so as Alexei laid down once more for a sleep filled with nightmares sometimes more real than reality itself, the war continued...each side holding their ground...as they had been for a year.

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

“What did Alexei mean by his comment” asked Emily as they made their way back their quarters.”

Henry stopped in the middle of the hallway, then addressed her question “One of the reasons why I did not want you here, is not just about your safety, but because you are innocent unlike the rest of us. Your orders are to obtain a sample, no matter what it takes. However, before you can do that you must understand what NO MATTER WHAT IT TAKES actually means, then ask your self if when the time comes if you are up to the task”

tAg will come up with something later

bump...ready to resume

"I'm sorry, Alexei..." Mark said, staring into his friend's eyes, blind to what they pleaded. "Just get your rest for the next one."

"They're leaving me behind..." Alexei thought to himself. "Fighting's the only thing I have any more...and they're taking it away from me..."

However, Alexei had come to expect the worse. Mark and Kat were leaving...but they'd be back tomorrow. If not...then they'd not come back at all. Alexei cursed himself for thinking like that.

"So leadership thinks I'm crazy now too..." he thought out loud. "Damnit," he whispered, his head in his hands.

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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Rei gazed upon the rubble, his long silver hair and black leather standing out among the browns of the Industrial Sector, where sunlight never dared to enter. No, the Industrial Sector was buried under two other districts, built right on top of each other. The illusion of the white sky was just that...it wasn't real. Instead, the smoke from the buildings and the lights guiding the way of the weary people came together to give the people guidance, sight, and lung disease.

He would leave tonight, as quickly and as quietly as he came...but first he needed something. Searching for nearly five years now, Rei finally stumbled upon fragments of the history of his race...and they all pointed to a certain temple. The location of that temple would be documented in the Imperial Library, for it was said to be disguised, and not obviously Aural. Rei realized that one fact alone is the reason it's still standing, where ever it is.

The guards approached him, but one by one became distracted. It was a neat ability, and he used it shamelessly. Rei himself was a relic, the last lifeform of a race thought to be extinct. The government knew of his existance, knew that he knew too much...but he had a damn good knack for slipping through their fingers...vanishing from their view.

Rei entered the library from its basement and searched for hours for a location of the temple. Suddenly, it became clear. He would have to go to Aeisis. Staring up at the Imperial Palace from the library window, watching its forcefield glimmer in the sunlight, Rei felt sad for a moment. At one time he was the Empire's brightest star...and now what was he...a murderer? A traitor?

No, he told himself, they were the traitors...and now some of the other humans had finally realized it. The Empire had slipped up once again, yet now they had an enemy who could fight back. Rei shook his head. Damn humans always had to kill something.

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Rei Warheit


Threads:
Warheit I (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=286992)
Warheit II (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=290247)

They never saw it coming. The move was so daring, so sudden, that the weary defenses of the base were not prepared. An attack like this could not have come from the Empire, and indeed it wasn't. Zephyr's rage had struck again, and this time the Resistance was to pay.

Alexei wiped his face...he had survived! The wreckage was everywhere, surrounding him. He blinked, obviously tired from the ordeal. Lying there, in the field of death, staring at a dark sky with only the dimmest light escaping darkness's grasp, Alexei began to remember the dream. The corpses were mangled, littered across the ground in a mass grave, piled on top of each other.

Frightened at how real this dream now was, Alexei stood, but his feet sliced into the flesh and he sunk down through the bodies until everything was dark. He tried to catch his breath, but he couldn't breath. Struggling among death, he gasped for air to fill his empty lungs, but not even the rotting stench of decay entered his body.

He had thought that he was ready to die, but now, entombed in death, all he wished for was life. Alexei struggled, clawing his way through the bodies, but he was quickly becoming unconcious.

It was then that a hand reached down, through the carnage, and Alexei grabbed hold of it. The man lifted him up, so that he was now face to face with his savior. The fires of the room reflected off the man's silver hair, the flames dancing across the shadows.

"I caught you on sensors," the man stated, his face emotionless. "I'm going to Aeisis...I figure you should go there as well."

"Yeah..." Alexei said, speachless. "I...thank you..."

"Don't mention it," the man said, the sides of his lips curling up in a smile. "We should be going now."

"But what about the others? We need to search for..."

"There are no survivors, Alexei..." the man said.

"I didn't tell you my..."

"Rei Warheit," the man said, stepping into his ship. He turned his head back to Alexei. "In case you were wondering..."

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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Rei Warheit

"I don't want to have to tell you again!" Lusec Apakoh yelled at the frightened man, slamming his holographic fist on the desk. The man shook in his chair, dropping his chicken leg out of his hand.

"I-I swear...I've got no new information..." Economics Director Richard Lesc replied, reaching over his large gut to try and pick it up off the floor. He was failing.

"Listen well you obscenely overweight cow," Apakoh said, smiling a wicked sort of smile. "Without information for me, you're useless! Without a purpose, it is foolish for a human to remain alive. Do I make myself clear?!?"

"C-crystal, sir!" Lesc said, reaching...just a few more inches...

Apakoh exited the holographic production and communication unit (HPCU) and turned to Zephyr.

"I hope you frightened him..." the Sky Marshall said to his Captain.

"Oh he's definately scared," Apakoh replied, a grin on his face.

Back in the capital, Lesc fell off his chair face first. Grabbing the chicken leg in his hands, he forgot to get up as he engulfed the fried flesh in his black hole of a mouth.

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Sky Marshall Michael Zephyr
Former Commander,
Imperial Fleet and Marines

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Captain Lusec Apakoh
81st Imperial Marines

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Richard Lesc
Imperial Director of Economics

"I asked for those reports a half hour ago!" General Valkare screamed at his staff. No one dared to look up, much less meet him eye to eye.

"Sir, casualty reports are in," Lt. Kris Benz replied. Jack shot him a glare. "We have a confirmation that no one there was found alive...however there are missing persons other than the two thousand plus already confirmed dead...and..."

"What? And what, Lieutenant?" Valkare impatiently demanded.

"...and there was a black ops mission out of that base at the time of the attack. They left a little over two hours before," Benz informed.

"Damnit," Valkare said, lowering his voice. They both knew it could take weeks to identify each member of the black ops teams. The identities were kept secret for a reason, althought it made times like these a pain in the ass. "Any guesses?"

"I'm betting Captain Williams, sir...maybe with some others...some pilots, marksmen, etc." Benz replied.

"Well," Valkare said. "Inform me when you get new information...until then I'll be with Pierce if my presense is required here."

"Yes, sir," everyone said together standing up and saluting. They held their poses until the General was gone, and then got back to their work.

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

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Lieutenant Kris Benz
Esthar Strike Marines
13th Marine Division

There was excitement growing in the air. A large amount of the crew had gathered on the FA observation deck, for an event that had almost a year in the making, the arrival of reinforcements.

For some, it would mean a chance to return home and visit loved one, others it meant new friends to replace the ones that they had lost. However, for those that remained it was a sign off hope, hope that maybe this war just might end.

This last year had over extended the Military’s resources, effectively causing a stalemate in the conflict, but with the decommissioning of the Navy opened new resources. After much training new personal, and cutting edge weaponry were finally making their way into the skies above Aesis. The development of this new fleet had pushed Tappee’s ship yards to the limit, and had drain the governments reserves.

The crew watched with amazement as the fleet drop out of hyperspace, one after the other the came into view. There were some of the older ship designs, but the fleet consisted of the newer more sleek ship designs. The most noticeable of the new ship was the three Delphin class command ships at the centre of the fleet, they were designed the replace the Older Ithra class ships that had been destroyed, but none came close to the FA’s size. One of the biggest differences between the fleet arriving and the one currently around Aesis was the battle scars.

Every single ship , including the FA, bore battle scars of past battle. Some had only charred hull plating, while others had entire section gone. The newly painted hulls of the new ships seemed out of place compared to the of all the other ship stationed around Aesis.

Admiral Dodalla, who like all her crew was watching the scene unfold, turned to Henry who was standing beside her. “Well I guess it’s time that we go and talk to Mr. Pierce isn’t”

Henry just gave her a reassuring node, not wanting to look away.

“Very well” quickly answered Dodalla. See glanced over at Ensign Wetherspoon “Ensign have my shuttle readied, and contact the Rebel Command on Aesis, tell them that me and Mr Kobe shall be arriving soon.”

The Ensign gave the Admiral a quick salute and went to do her duty.

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Admiral Dodalla

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Herny Kobe

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Ensign Wetherspoon

[OOC: Strange...exactly what I had in mind...]

James Pierce looked at his monitor. It seemed that the Admiral was once again ready to talk. He nodded at Bivens and Valkare, who were sitting in the same room.

"Send them down, ensign," Pierce replied. "Give them a warm welcome...you know the drill..."

The three men sat up straight as the two foreigners entered the briefing room.

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Sir James Pierce
Political Head of the Resistance

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Dave Bivens
President/CEO of Bivens Co.

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

Ooc: Great minds think alike…lol

Ic;

Shortly after the admiral’s shuttle touched down on the landing pad, both Admiral Dodalla and Henry were making their way down the ramp. “Have you had the chance to meet with Mr Pierce Henry?” casually asked the Dodalla.

“Only briefly” answered after taking a moment to think. “shortly after I was rescued at Tatania, he allowed me to contact command and tell them what had happened. However, that was awhile back.” It wasn’t until then that he realized exactly how much time had passed since all this had started.

As they stepped of the ramp they were quickly approached by security, Dodalla quickly cut in. “I’m Admiral Dodalla, and this Henry Kobe with Tappee Intelligence, and believe that Mr Pierce is expecting us.”

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Admiral Dodalla

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Henry Kobe

The three men sat up straight as the two foreigners entered the briefing room.

"Good to see you two again," James Pierce said, smiling and extending his hand in between the two officers from Tappee, waiting for one of them to shake it.

Bivens smiled at Dodalla and Valkare politely refrained from talking.

"May I offer you two a drink?"

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Sir James Pierce
Political Head of the Resistance

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Dave Bivens
President/CEO of Bivens Co.

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

They each shock hands with Mr Pierce

“Whisky on the rocks” responded Henry, he was a bit harsh in his tone

The Admiral on the other hand was a bit more tactful with her response. “I’ll be good with just a glass of water, thank you kindly.” she said while taking a seat. Dodalla glance over at the Valkare and shot him a bit of a smile “You look well General” she then turned her attention back to Pierce “I trust that you know why we are here.”

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Admiral Dodalla

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Henry Kobe

"Before we go on, Admiral...I'd like to show you something," Pierce said. He touched a spot in the air, bringing up a monitor before them all. On the screen was rubble, destruction of all kinds. Then came the bodies. "I just lost over two thousand men...the largest loss in a year. I sure hope you're bringing me good news."

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Sir James Pierce
Political Head of the Resistance

Dodalla cringed at hearing the new about the losses, no commander liked to hear about losses, but they were a reality of war. “I that case, I guess I do. As we speak our reinforcement are arriving in the space above Aesis. Nearly 250 ships, and 50,000 ground personal, with more to come.”

Henry cut in “We feel that we can’t allow the imperial forces any more time to gather their force. The Tribunal feels that is now time to begin a new offensive.” Unlike the Admiral he could careless about the losses, it only meant that the Imperial forces were now in a position to strike at them.

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Admiral Dodalla

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Henry Kobe

Pierce stared at the screen, his back turned to them. "This isn't the doing of the Imperials..." he said and then sat down, silent.

General Valkare stared at Pierce for a good while before beginning. "I am planning a grand invasion of the capital, the planet Steel Butterfly. I haven't recieved the support I wished to have had, but the plan has been accepted." He smiled at Bivens, who didn't dare look at Pierce. "Estimated losses in simulations have been in the millions, and that's only for our side." He swallowed hard. "Out of 1232 times, we've won 5 in simulation. However, with the inclusion of your reinforcements..."

He paused, waiting for a response.

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Sir James Pierce
Political Head of the Resistance

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Dave Bivens
President/CEO of Bivens Co.

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

Talk of invading the capital planet hit both Henry and Dodalla like a tonne of bricks, up until the current moment in time it had never been a option. The two both sat their for a moment dumbfounded.

Henry was the first to gather his thought. “Well” hesitation could be heard in his voice “well once the rest of the fleet is here, we would be more then willing to try and take the capital. However you had mention the attack that took those 2,000 live was not done be the imperial then it would appear that we have an outside factor to deal with. Do you have any idea who was behind the attack?”

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Admiral Dodalla

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Henry Kobe

"Michael Zephyr," Pierce replied, still being relatively quiet on the couch. "A fellow dessenter...but one with nothing more than a grudge. He's obviously not fighting for us. I'm surprised your intelligence hasn't come up with this yet..."

"Please, sir," Valkare said. "Let us continue with the plan..." The tension was obvious, but both men tried to downplay it. "We would attack the planet from every angle imaginable. Remember, space warfare is more than just x and y coordinates...you must remember z as well." A 3-D schematic appeared before them of Steel Butterfly. "The planet is entirely a city. The single city has three different levels of civilization. Luckily, the capitol is in Monarch Heights...the uppermost sector."

"I have very detailed information on hiding places both Nemerov and Dr. Ackerman may use in the account of an invasion," Bivens began. Valkare didn't seem to mind. "But that's if we get to the planet. Surrounding it is one of the largest fleets the Imperials have, and they will undoubtedly call for reinforcements. We must overpower these ships...if we don't...the invasion ends before it begins."

"Once we're on the planet," Valkare continued. "We must remember that we are in fact not on the surface but instead nearly three miles into the atmosphere of the planet Steel Butterfly. If we get this far, Nemerov and Ackerman will undoubtedly head south, through the slums and the Industrial Sector and eventually to the surface. From there they will go into the lowest level, underground. It is imperative that we catch them before they enter this location."

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Sir James Pierce
Political Head of the Resistance

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Dave Bivens
President/CEO of Bivens Co.

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

Honor Harrington gazed out of the viewport of her quarters, observing the Tappee ships, and the new reinforcements drawing in around Aesis. The signs of brutal combat, battle scars and missing sections, on the Tappee ships reminded Harrington of the losses 3rd Battlesquadron had endured so far. Like the Tappee ships, none of the ships in the 3rd Battlesquadron had avoided battle damage. The mobile repairyard they had was able to fix nearly anything, but because of the haste to get damaged ships back to the fight and make room for other damaged ships to be repaired, there simply was no time to replace all damaged portions of the hull armor. Thus many ships had ugly black scars in their white hulls, result of high-energy weapons cutting into the armor.

At the moment, the entirety of the 3rd Battlesquadron was around Aesis. Honor had anticipated that a large offensive would be coming, and most likely soon. She had recalled all the ships of the Battlesquadron to Aesis for repairs and preparation for the operations to come.

She took a quick look at the Order of Battle of the 3rd Battlesquadron on her datapad. The force she had arrived with to the Orion Sector had held only a few ships of the wall, but in the last month the re-inforcements had arrived. Three Superdreadnoughts, a single Dreadnought, two LAC-Carriers and a single Battlecruiser squadron. The total strength of the 3rd Battlesquadron now stood at Fleet level, and Harrington had been authorized to re-organize the force and create the 5th Fleet.

She finished the last files of paperwork she had, and dumped them to the message queue to the Fleet commanders, and her Flag Staff. The last week had been busy indeed, with the organization of an entire new Fleet stealing most of Harringtons time. She glanced at the chrono hanging on the bulkhead and swore silently as she noticed that the conference down on Aesis had allready begun. She wasnt particularily invited, but she considered that since she represented one of the greatest outside supporters of the Rebellion, she was expected to make a show.

She opened the comm-link on her computer. A youthly voice replied quickly from the other end of the link.
"Boat bay #1" The Enlisted in charge of Boat Bay 1 operations replied.
"I want my Pinnace prepared for immidiate flight, tell Chief Tyler that he will be piloting." Harrington told the man.
"Affirmative Admiral, we can have Pinnace Delta-3 ready in seven minutes."
"Excellent, i'll be there shortly."
She shut off the com-link and opened another to the bridge.

"Bridge." Answered the voice of Captain Milos Caparan, the captain of the HMS Fearless
"Captain, tell comms to notify Aesis of my impending arrival."
"Acknowledged Admiral, we will tell them right away."
She shut off the com-link, gathered the few datapads and data disks she would most likely need, and left her quarters, hurrying towards Boat Bay #1 with her Marine Bodyguards staying close on her heels.


Aesis flight-control, Admiral Harrington is on
her way down onboard one of our Pinnace's ID'd
Delta-3. We would request you to inform Mr. Pierce
of her impending arrival.


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Fleet Admiral Honor Harrington
3rd Battlesquadron CSN

Pierce nodded as he was informed of Admiral Harrington's arrival. It seemed as if everyone else had heard it as well, so he kept quiet.

"Once we get past the swarms of starships," Valkare continued. "We will come to the planet Steel Butterfly itself. The planet has its own shield grid, one that is stronger than anything any of us has ever seen. Obviously the shield is stronger above the Imperial Palace. Shield Theory says that if you have a specific strong point, you will have a weak point. Since we will be attacking the planetary sphere on its entire area, we will find this weak point. Once we do...we will have to go inside and...break some things up." Valkare paused for effect. "Civilian casualties will be...high. I hope that isn't a problem."

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Sir James Pierce
Political Head of the Resistance

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

“Once we get past the there are a number of ways that we could try to get past the shield” Admiral Dodalla’s mind was racing trying to play out possible scenario’s in her head. “What I would suggest is punching a hole in one of the weak spots that you mention. Once we have a hole we could deploy ground forces to secure a foothold. Drop suits would be the most viable option, they are much smaller then drop ships and therefore will be much hard for the air defences t hit.”

“Don’t worry about the civilian losses” Said Henry cutting off the Admiral. “We can just spin it and say that the Empire was using them as human shields, it would help in Demonizing them”

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Admiral Dodalla

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Henry Kobe

"Might as well bury her," Joseph said, looking over the ship. "She's not flying anytime soon..."

Mark stared back at him speachless. It had been little over an hour since they had stolen shield codes from a Imperial Space station under cloak. The mission went perfectly, with their ships parked right outside the station. The Imperials were oblivious to the attack...until Zephyrs followers caught the cloak on updated radar and starting firing. Needless to say, it became messy.

"They really got us good," Joseph continued. "We're lucky to be alive."

"You said you saw Katrina's ship get away...right?" Mark asked, his mind obviously in one and only one place.

"I thought I saw the numbers, Mark," He replied. "I hope as much as you do she got away..."

"The hell are we?" Mark asked, looking around. He got up and grabbed a blaster rifle out of the fighter ship's storage compartment and walked around.

"I have no clue...and neither does the ship's computer..." Joseph replied, picking up a rifle of his own.

"Well we can't be far from the station..." Mark responded, his voice indicating he was moving farther away. Joseph froze.

"Mark...get over here..."

"Just hold on..."

"NOW!" Joseph yelled, staring into the cockpit of the broken ship.

"What is it?" Mark yelled back, running towards the ship. Joseph pointed down at the cockpit and Mark's eyes followed his finger to a grey briefcase.

"The codes," both men said at the same time.

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Lieutenant Joseph Frost
Vehicle Specialist/Sniper,
1st Marines

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Lt. Commander Mark Andrews
"Raptor Zero"
15th Fighter Squadron

“Don’t worry about the civilian losses” Said Henry cutting off the Admiral. “We can just spin it and say that the Empire was using them as human shields, it would help in Demonizing them”

All three resistance leaders stared at Henry astonished, each with a different expression on their face. Valkare seemed impressed while Bivens just raised an eyebrow. Pierce on the otherhand was quite upset.

"You...all of you...you fail to realize what you're saying," He stammered, trying to maintain the composure that he was now all but famous for. "These people...they are who we're fighting to save! They aren't our enemy! NiMBUS disregards and takes the lives of innocents, not us! This is the whole god-damned point of this war!"

"No, Mr. Pierce," Valkare began. "That is where you are wrong. The point in this, and in any war is to win while saving as many lives as possible. We cannot insure the survival of civilians who get in our way. Hell, the Empire might very well use them as human shields! We cannot win if we don't take Steel Butterfly, and we cannot take the capital if we don't use this plan. We also cannot last much longer sitting here waiting for Michael Zephyr to destroy us both!"

"No one asked you to join, General!" Pierce replied, nearly yelling.

"So you'd give up all my men just because I don't sit around waiting to lose!" Valkare spat in return.

"Gentlemen!" Bivens shouted, but they failed to hear it.

"You are under my command," Pierce yelled, oblivious to the reactions from Dodalla and Henry. "You are under my orders."

"I take orders from no one!" Valkare screamed. "Especially not cowards who relax in penthouses dressed in the finest clothes as men are slaughered around the clock."

"I ought to have you killed!"

"I ought to kill you myself!"

"I'm going to shoot you both if you don't shut the hell up now! Leave, both of you!" Bivens shouted. "What kind of impression are you trying to give? What kind of shit are you trying to pull? Get out!"

Both Valkare and Pierce exited the room, leaving in opposite directions. Bivens paced around the room, muttering to himself. He stopped, downed his drink, and paced some more. Abruptly he turned to his two guests and apologized.

"...and these are the leaders," he said. "The ones who are supposed to be all knowing. Imagine how the troops must feel..."

"I...I truely am sorry about this...they'll cool off in time. Feel free to talk to me."

"...I know what I'm saying."

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Sir James Pierce
Political Head of the Resistance

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Dave Bivens
President/CEO of Bivens Co.

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

Henry fought back his anger and went silient, he did not like being compared to NiMbus, it was not like he was saying that they would go kill civilians.

Dodalla glanced over at Henry then back towards Bivens “Although I do not totally agree with Mr. Kobe on the issue of civilian losses, I do however agree with General Valkare in that Civilian losses are unavoidable.” They where no stuck in the middle of a volatile situation and with the Clairmont admiral arriving soon she would have to tread carefully. “However, before I can commit my forces to an operation such as taking the capital of Steel Butterfly I need to have confidence in the leadership ability on your end”

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Admiral Dodalla

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Henry Kobe

Admiral Harrington strode thru the corridors and halls of the building gracely but quickly, following the aide who was quiding her to the place of the meeting. It had truly been a long time since she had been down on Aesis the last time. And it would also be the first time she actually met Mr.Pierce.

The aide took a turn, leading her towards a set of doors, from the looks of it an entrance to a private conference room or something of the sort. The aide came to the door, knocked and opened it, allowing Harrington to enter.

She glanced upon the gathered people in the room, immidietly regognizing Admiral Dodalla and Henry Kobe, as well as Mr.Bivens, for some reason, both General Valkare and James Pierce were not there. What that reason might be she had no idea, but she was rather certain she would find out. She tucked her black beret under her left arm, and greeted the three people in the room.

"Greetings gentlemen, and Admiral Dodalla, im sorry im late but re-organizing the forces under my command into 5th Fleet is taking most of my time and while doing so, the time of this meeting completely passed my mind." She statet apoletigally. Of the three people gathered here, Honor Harrington most likely knew Admiral Dodalla the best. The woman was in many respects similar to her, not least of which came from the fact that she had attained as high as a rank in Tappee Navy as Harrington had achieved in the CSN.

"So, what did i miss?"

Bivens shifted his gaze from Honor Harrington back to Dodalla. "I assure you, madam...everything will be fine. I'll lead them myself if I have to..." Bivens didn't know what he was saying. What am I doing? All he knew was, it was about time he spoke up instead of hiding in the shadows.

Turning to face Harrington, he simply replied, "A good bit." Touching a spot in the air in front of her, he replayed a taped version of the meeting they just had, with the fighting obviously cut out.

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Dave Bivens
President/CEO of Bivens Co.

The flames crackled in the air as the night breeze made the shadows dance across the dense trees. Mark sat by the fire, its warmth easing his longing soul and gently carrying him off to sleep.

Joseph chose to stay cold, the chill making him feel alive. He clung to his senses, his wits were what he needed to stay alive. The metal rifle felt icy against his palms as he held it at watch.

"You need your rest," Mark said, walking over towards him.

"Marines don't sleep," Joseph replied with a smile on his face. "We don't have comfy little ships to cuddle up in."

"You don't have sleeping bags either it seems..." Mark said back.

"Hey, if it was my ship, I would have packed mattresses somewhere in it," Joseph said, looking around. "But who's ship is it? Oh yeah..."

"Quiet," Mark replied and surprisingly, Joseph nodded. Mark was about to ask what when he heard a branch snap. Pointing towards the other gun, Joseph got dropped down to the ground. Mark hesitated but Joseph insisted that he run for his weapon that was nearby.

The enemy fired, but Joseph was on them, shooting where the blasts had originated. Cries of pain were like trophies, or at least indicators as to if he hit or missed. He didn't fire a quiet shot.

"I'm not fucking bait!" Mark yelled, hitting the ground beside Joseph.

"Quiet," Joseph replied, his training and instincts taking over. "There," he pointed. "To the trees. I've got your back."

As soon as Mark had disappeared into the forest, Joseph got up on his needs and staying down, made his way through the firefight and into the woods. Together they ran, but to where neither man knew.

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Lieutenant Joseph Frost
Vehicle Specialist/Sniper,
1st Marines

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p639933.png
Lt. Commander Mark Andrews
"Raptor Zero"
15th Fighter Squadron

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"Keep moving," Rei said as Alexei stared at the statues. Their journey had taken some time, but they were met with little resistance. The Rebels were stretched so thin...

"Where are we?" Alexei asked, walking in circles as he stared at what was above him.

"The Temple of the Gods," Rei replied, his eyes squinting at the sight. The sun was just about set, and he could see the fires already being lit at the abandoned temple. They did that themselves, without any help from the living. This place was holy, and Alexei was not to enter, but Rei had since realized that there was no one left to punish him for his heracy.

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"I...I don't understand..." Alexei said, but Rei ignored him, entering the temple. "How is no one here? How didn't anyone find this place?"

"Be quiet," Rei said, concentrating. "You are standing on holy ground."

"Sir...erm...Rei," Alexei questioned. "I know of no people who follow religion. Such things are of the past I had thought..."

"How many people do you know that look like me?" Rei replied, smiling. The grin felt refreshing, but he had work to do.

For so long, Rei had been in doubt about his people. For so long, Rei hadn't known the truth. Now he was close, and he could feel it.

"Why have you brought me here?" Alexei continued. Rei turned around. Perhaps it would be better to tell the man, he thought.

"Alexei," Rei began. "I didn't pick you up on sensors." Alexei stared back, not sure what Rei meant. "Not electronic sensors anyway. I...I felt you, Alexei. I...my people do that. We are in touch with nature...life being part of it." Rei ran his fingers through his long silver hair. "The color should have been a damn givaway. There are no others who have it...anymore at least."

"You're the defector..." Alexei said, finally realizing where he had heard the name Rei Warheit. "The man who tore up the capital...the man who saved Nemerov...so you're saying that...you're not human?"

"Not in the least," Rei replied. "I'm an Aural...and the last of my kind."

"How does that have anything to do with me?" Alexei wanted to know.

"I'm not sure," Rei responded. "But I wouldn't have sensed you if you were normal...something's different about you."

That's for sure... "Why this place?"

"As I told you, this was a Temple for my people. Alexei, you know what happened to the Aurals don't you?"

"N-no...not really..."

"Humans slaughtered them, all of them. NiMBUS Biotechnologies then captured some and experimented on them. That's where..."

"I saw the same thing. They did it with elves...Nienna..." Alexei interrupted. How long had it been since they were together? It wouldn't matter anymore...she was long gone.

"Another species destroyed by humanity," Rei said sourly.

"I still don't see what it has to do with religion," Alexei said. "All I see is, you have a reason to hate NiMBUS. I do as well. If I could only get you to see Mr. Pierce then..."

"Alexei," Rei said. "The god of my people...our final judge..." He paused, as if he was unsure about what he was going to say next. "We called him...Nimbus."

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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Rei Warheit

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"What the hell happened?" Captain Thomas McNeil of the Outlander asked as he entered the shuttlebay. The Outlander had responded to a distress call from a task force that wasn't. The mission had been top secret.

"I gave you the log," Captain Leon Williams replied. "You normally read them."

"Was is the Apparition?" McNeil continued.

"To be honest with you, I didn't stop to identify it. It blasted the fuck out of my ships and we fled."

"Was the mission objective achieved?"

"Yes and no, Captain," Leon replied. "We got it, but if you're asking if we have it now, then I'd have to say no."

"I'll foward that to headquarters," McNeil said. "We're going back there now."

"Any reason for the rush?"

"Just rumors...but I heard we're attacking something big..."

"The 5th fleet? Those damn Imperials keep inching closer..."

"No, Leon," McNeil said, lowering his voice and taking Captain Williams off to the side. "Steel Butterfly..."

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Captain Leon Williams
Leader of the 2nd Marines

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Captain Thomas McNeill
CO of the Outlander

Harrington quickly skimmed thru the high-points of what had allready happened in the meeting. As she finished the recording, she composed her thoughts.

"An invasion of Steel Butterfly? Its bold, i must say that much. But it would also be a shot that could decapitate the Imperials completely, letting us end this war quickly." She began

"However, i must state my concerns towards the strategy you were discussing. While attacking from numerous directions forces the Imperials to spread their defenses so that they can face both our forces, it will also mean that both the parts of our forces will have less total power. And when taking into account astro-physical concerns, against two seperate forces the Imperials could bring all of their picket forces from the area around Steel Butterfly, when on the other hand if we attack as a single force, the Imperials would either have to wait and gather their ships as one force or send them as waves when they arrive from the more distant patrol areas. Essentially, both these tactics have their strenghts and weaknesses, and both of them can be succesfull." She finished, observing the expressions of the other three seating here with her.

"On another note, you will have the full support of the CSN 5th Fleet if this operation is decided to be carried out. Our logistics situation is good and we have more combat power in the Orion Sector than ever before during our involvement to this crisis."

Nemerov didn't feel like partying, but everyone else was certainly having a good time. He sat in the corner, the Emperor of the greatest Empire ever, ignored. Feeling iritable, he left for his office.

He had risen the Empire to hights the founders could never have dreamed of, and then he had watched as it all crumbled before him. After the incident, the computer had rigged his office so that anyone who pulled out a gun would be shot on sight.

Reaching into his pocket, he felt the pistol with his fingertips, slowly moving his hand deeper. Here he was, a pawn in his own game...and was it really worth it? He would have survived a scandal, but he wouldn't have survived for long...not without the good doctor, the bastard son of science.

"I'd leave it in there," Sky Marshall Alek Petrovich Adrikov, Michael Zephyr's replacement, said from the doorway.

"Sky Marshall," Nemerov asked, taking his hand out of his pocket. "Have you been innoculated by NiMBUS yet?"

"No," Adrikov replied. "Not until next week."

"Delay it," Nemerov ordered. The Sky Marshall looked back, confused. "Don't let them touch you..."

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Emperor Alexander Nemerov
Star Empire of Steel Butterfly,
In the Orion Sector which includes:
Steel Isle, Steel Moon,
CTaNbHaR Eabo4Ka, XIII,
Aeisis, Bivens, Esthar VIII
Orion Sector Alliance Premier,
Order of the Seraphim

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Sky Marshall Alek Petrovich Adrikov
Commander of the Imperial Fleet and Marines
Head of Capital Defense

Admiral Dodalla thought for a moment about Admiral Harringtons purposal. “Your ideal Admiral is a good one. However, if we were cluster our forces together it would extremely limit the combat effectiveness of our more newer ship.”

“You have to understand with the reorganization of our military assets also came with a reorganization of our tactics. The newer ship is much faster, and more manoeuvrable then the older ship, but they aren’t as heavily armed either. Our new space doctrine calls for the newer ships to engage the enemy close in order to confuse the enemy and break their formation, while the older ship cut the enemy to pieces. So we would be unable to utilize our fleets strengths if we were to fight in a closed formation.”

Getting up from here seat and touched a few point on a HOLO projection of Capital. “What we could do” at this point she was simply speaking as she was thinking. “try to combine both idea’s, send in two waves. The first wave will be my forces, our objective will not to defeat the imperial fleet but to however, engage them close try to confuse them and disorganize the their line. Once an opening presents itself both the Clairmont fleet and the Rebel fleet drop in a tight single formation. Hopefully this could counter any imperial reinforcements”

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Admiral Dodalla

Bivens was impressed by the ease the Admiral had with the rather complicated holo-touch process.

"Still," he replied. "There's still the matter of getting past the shields. We could attack one spot in the way you propose, only to run into a metaphorical brick wall and be trapped. We may make it out, but our fleets would be depleated beyond recognition. There are simply too many ways to fight this battle..." he paused for a moment, wondering about Pierce and Valkare. "...and too many opposing opinions on the matter. The sickening thing is, though, if we lose this battle...I wouldn't like our chances for the war."

The door to Bivens' right opened and James Pierce entered, seeminly calmer than when he left.

"Ladies and Gentlemen," he began. "That brings us to our problem. Either we don't attack, and the Imperial mainstay stays in tact, or we do attack, and destroy the near future of the Empire, and its people."

"James," Dave Bivens said, frowning. "If we attack, many will die. Much will be destroyed, and so many things will change." General Jack Valkare entered in silence. "However if we don't attack...everyone will die. This war is now beyond freeing the people from corruption, James. It's now beyond revenge, Admiral Dodalla. It's beyond helping an ally, Admiral Harrington. NiMBUS has already consumed the Empire. NiMBUS has already stricken fear across the Orion Sector, and even further into Tappee. They will not stop at us. To them we are nothing more than a pesky reporter who they have to keep quiet in order to preserve their secret. NiMBUS is the enemy of the entire universe, and yet we are the ones who get to determine its fate. This war is beyond aiming for victory, General Valkare...because if we fail, everyone loses."

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Sir James Pierce
Political Head of the Resistance

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Dave Bivens
President/CEO of Bivens Co.

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

Henry ended his silence. “There is no doubt that you are correct in your statement Mr Bivens, NiMbus is a Cancerous Tumour that must be remove. However, if we are not careful in removing it then we risk killing the patient.”

He sighed collecting his thoughts. “We each have our own fears.” continued Henry “Mr Pierce, you are scared that you will become what you hate.” He looked over at the Valkare “General you are worried that given any more time the Imperials will have the resources to crush us, and all that we have accomplished to date will have been for nothing.” Henry now directed his attention to everyone in the room. “I am scared to death the atrocities that I witnessed at Tatania by NiMbus won’t end there, that entire planets will suffer the same fate as Tatania, and I will die before I let that happen again. Deep down we all know that this will only end when NiMbus, and the Empire is brought down, and the only way that is going to happen is if we take the capital.”

Henry rose to feet. “We stand at a cross roads, we all go down a single road together, or go our separate ways. However, only united can we hope to win. We either stand united, or united we fall there is nothing else.”

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Henry Kobe

Once again, silence ensued. "I'll tell the troops," General Valkare said, standing to leave. Pierce seemed shattered.

"James...its for the people..." Bivens said, trying to make him realize what had to be done. Pierce, however, already knew. He just couldn't accept it.

"So we kill some to save others?" Pierce asked, his voice starting off quiet but slowing rising. "What gives us the right to make that choice? How can we justify killing to prevent killing? Those people...at their jobs...in their houses...so many won't live much longer. Yet it is in our arrogance...that we think we can decide the fates of so many..."

"Damnit, James," Bivens said, putting his hands on his mentor's shoulders and staring him straight in the eye. "Our fate has already been decided for us! Dr. Ackerman has told us, through his actions, that we all must die. I know you can't accept that! You've proven it by leading us this far! Obviously we prepared for loses in the beginning, but now that those numbers become faces...you can't back down. You're tangled in the winding sheets of history, your name jotten down in permanent ink. You're a part of this war...and the war cannot let go any more than you can."

"I..." James said, his emotions boiling inside of him. "I...tried to wash my hands clean of this curse...yet the blood had stained them long ago. Ladies...gentlemen...the games we've played until now are over. We embark on this mission, unknowing of, or simply blind to, the suffering to come. You all have brought me to that moment where throats, and words, run dry. Our thirst only quenched by blood, the words we say today mean nothing if we don't kill tomorrow. We will set this Empire on fire, minds clouded by concepts of right and wrong, and we can only sit and wait until the flames at last consume us. Run with this plan...take it...set the unavoidable in motion...before we change our minds. Before I change my mind..."

James Pierce, a shadow of his former glory, untied his tie, took off his jacket, and rolled up his sleeves. He no longer desired alcohol, as he stared as the poison in his glass, venom which he often loved to consume. His hand shaking, he set the glass down on the table before them, got up, and exited the room.

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Sir James Pierce
Political Head of the Resistance

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Dave Bivens
President/CEO of Bivens Co.

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

The experiences of the past year had test will and soul of everyone in the room, and events of today had shown the toll that had been taken as a result. They had all grown weary of this war, and now they had a chance to end it.

“Very well” said Admiral Dodalla out loud “It would seem that we have all agreed that our next target shall be Steel Butterfly itself. Although as of yet we haven’t yet worked out the details of how, but I feel that it should be discussed at a later date. For the moment I’m am going to bring my fleet up speed for the coming assult and to discuses possible strategies with my subordinates. If it is OK with the rest you I shall bid you leave”

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Admiral Dodalla

Dave Bivens stood up and extended his hand to both Dodalla and Henry. "I'll await our next meeting, then," he said, forcing a smile in such depressing times.

"By then we should have a more detailed plan, as well as intelligence reports on Imperial locations and equipment," Valkare continued. The General then signalled the shuttlebay, telling them to prepare the transport to travel back to the Tappee ship.

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Dave Bivens
President/CEO of Bivens Co.

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

Harrington followed the exchange silently, feeling slightly out of place amids all this burning emotion towards the war. In a way, Pierce was right. The purpose of the Rebellion was to free the people of Steel Butterfly, not to butcher them. But on the other hand, if the Rebellion did not do what had to be done in order for the war to be won, then the Empire would win, and the populace living under it wouldnt be free. The sad truth was that, either the Rebellion fought, and there would be the inevitable civilian casualties, or the Rebellion did not do what had to be done, and there would be no civilian casualties but no freedom either. What was life without freedom in any event?

She stood up as Henry Kobe and Admiral Dodalla prepared to leave and fixed her gaze on Bivens and Pierce.

"Mr. Pierce, any war will have its own share of casualties, innocent and not. Altough the goal does not justify the means, you have to consider the consequences behind our actions. If we fight, people will die, if we wont fight, not as many people might die as quickly, but die they will sooner or later and without freedom. You can think how Duke Alexander of my nation felt 250 years ago when he lead his army against the very people he was trying to save from the clutches of the Warlords. And today you witness what resulted from Alexander doing that decision."


"In any event, i will stand beside you and my forces shall stand beside yours, and together we will bring this war to its conclusion, and we will carry the burden of our conscience together. "

"The CSN 5th Fleet will be awaiting for the word gentlemen. We will be ready to leave within moments of notice when necessary. And my apologies gentlemen, but i as well must bid you leave in order to have anything ready for the assault to become." She finished.

The wind passed through the trees, a quiet reminder of the cold winter day. It had snowed the night before and snow had covered the land, the tombstones jetting from the ground beneath served as a reminder of those that had been buried here. Despite the bitter cold two had ventured out to say hello to a loved one.

“Go ahead” Jade gave her daughter a gentle push forward. “It’s alright.”

Makenzie, Jade four-year-old daughter, looked up at her mother a bit confused “But where should I put mommy?”

Taking a few steps forward Jade kneeled down and cleared the snow at the base of the Tombstone that they were standing in front of “How about here?”

Nodding in agreement with her mother Makenzie reached into her jacket and pulled a small card out. The card read ‘Happy birthday Daddy’ and it had a picture of a birthday cake, both the writing and the cake were drawn by a child’s hand. Walking over the were Jade had cleared the snow she placed the card at the base of the tombstone. “Do you think that Daddy would have liked the card?”

Taking her daughter into her arms Jade picked Makenzie off the ground and started to walk back towards the car. “I know that he would have loved it”

Before they could make it back to the car, another car pulled up behind their, and a lone man got out. “Figured that I would find you here. What your not answering any calls” said the man as Jade and Makenzie approached.

“You should know better then anyone, not today Jon” Scowled Jade. “Here honey wait for mom in the car, you’ll be much warmer” she opened the car door and placed Makenize inside.

“Is she still having those nightmares” asked Jon as Jade closed the car door.

“Yeah she is!” shot Jade, she was rather annoyed by Jon intrusions and gave him the look to know it. “What is so important that it could not wait?”

Suddenly he realized that it may not have been such a good idea to come, he decide that since he was already in trouble with Jade that he might as well continue. “I just talked to Dodalla, she just finished having meeting with the Rebels, they want to begin an offensive, and we need your authorization before we can begin” Even though Jon was the President of Tappee he still need to get clearance from the Tribunal, in this case from Jade.

“What’s the target” asked Jade.

“Steel Butterfly” quickly responded, he allowed a moment for his words to sink in. “There is project to be huge losses, both in military and civilian”
“Do it, I don’t care if you have to burn the planet to the ground” he face was cold and emotionless. “If that what it takes to destroy NiMbus, then that’s what will be done. They can all burn in Hell as far as I’m concerned.” She reached down to open the car door.

“What happened to you” yelled Jon before she had chance to go anywhere. “Your not the person that I once knew. The Jade Allenson I once knew grieved are those innocent people that where hurt. And now you are on some Blood Lust of revenge, how many innocent people will be hurt?”

She had managed to open the car door ever so slightly; calmly she closed it and turned to towards Jon. “You want to talk to me about innocence Jon.” The anger was growing in her voice. “They took the life of my Husband, and emotionally scared my daughter for life, they took her innocence to early in life!” by this point she was yelling. “There are no innocence in this world anymore Jon!”

Jade closed her eyes and took a deep breath in an attempt to regain her composer. This outburst wasn’t like her and she knew it. “Have Dodalla make ever possible effort to avoid civilian losses, but not to the extent of putting our forces at risk, is that understood”

Halfway across the Galaxy aboard the FA, Ensign Wetherspoon shot out of bed. She was fighting for breath, covered in a cold sweet. It took her a few moments to get her barings in the room. “Another nightmare” said a voice from the top bunk. “That the third one this week”

“Sorry” answered Wetherspoon having caught her breath. “I think that I’m going to for bit walk.” Getting out of bed she made her way through the darkness and to the door. Opening it just bit so not to disturb her bunkmate further she slipped out. It was in the middle of the graveyard shift, and there were few moving through the FA’s hallways. Alone only to her thoughts she made her to the observation deck. She had hope to be alone on the observation desk, but found that another had taken refuge there as well. “Commander Kobe, I see that you are unable to sleep as well. Tell me, are the rumours true, are we going after Steel Butterfly?” She had decided some late conversation would be best to get her mind off of things.

There was an awkward pause as Henry decide how best to answer the ensigns question, they had gone to great lengths to keep the news of possible invasion as quiet as possible. “Yes, they are. But how do you know, I just sent to information to command no more then an hour ago.”

She had slipped up and knew it, she tried to avoid the question and change the subject. “This entire situation is a mess, we should have never got involved in the first place, it would have been better if the war had never happened.”

Henry took the bait, her statement on the war had upset him “You have no idea what these people are capable of. If you were at Tatania, you would know what true horror is” he turned to walk away. “I don’t have time to be lectured by some green Ensign who has no idea what the real world is like.”

It was now Wetherspoon turn to get angry, maybe it was the lack of sleep, stress, or just the situation but something inside her snapped. As Henry went to walk by she shoved into the wall. “You speak of horror as if you know what it actually is, you have never thought to stop and think what the possible repercussions of your actions maybe. Imagine being three years old, waking up in the middle of the night only to find your father murdered. Knowing who the murderer is, and having helped him to feet and sent him along his way to kill your father. You know nothing about horror!”

Henry had been caught off guard by the amount of force that the Ensign had put behind her shove. He listened to his but paid not attention he tried to strike back in anger. But Wetherspoon had anticipated the attack, with lighting fast reflexes she grabbed his arm, turned her back to him and flipped him over back. Flying across the room Henry hit the wall with a tremendous amount of force, the Ensign was much stronger then she appeared to be. He soon realized that there was more going here then even he knew about, first she knew about the invasion, and just the way she talked didn’t add up. “Who are you?” asked Henry as he got his feet and caught his breath. “What agency did you work for and how do you know about the invasion?”

“You all think that you are so smart, you and your Rebel friends down on the planet. You all had your little meeting and thought that you had all the factor put into the equation.” There was still a bit fire burning in her eyes but she had chosen to remain calm. “I’m going the tell you now that there is much more going on here then even you know about. There are forces working behind the scenes, trying to change things to their benefit.”

Confused Henry tried to make sense of what she was saying “You never answered my first question, how do you know about the invasion, who ARE you, what forces are you talking about.”

Again she had slipped up, she had no choice now tell him the truth. Letting out a bit of a sigh she began with her explanation “I’m from the future, my name is Makenzie Allenson.”

The truth hit Henry like a tonne bricks, it all made sense to him, he could see it in her face what she said was true. He could see her pain deep down, more importantly he could the resemblance to her Jade, Makenize’s mother. “Ok so your from the future, so why are here then, to save your fathers life, cause if so you are bit late, or is this some act of vengeance.”

“I’m not allowed to change the past Henry” she was rather annoyed at his sarcasm. “The are forces from the future that are trying to change the past to future.”

“So, a few change here and there, what does it matter” shot Henry
“You have no idea of what you are dealing with here do you!” she took a few step toward Henry, and assumed a more aggressive posture. “It’s like this, picture time as a rope, pull the wrong string and the entire rope falls apart.” Makenzie watched as a confused look came across Henry’s face. She changed her approach “You where suppose to have died at Tatania Henry, and with your death went the knowledge of NiMbus’s activities there. As a result Tappee never got involved in the War. However, for reason that I can’t explain it was decided that it would prove beneficial in the future if you had survived.”

It was proving to be a bit difficult but Henry was beginning grasp what she was saying “I guess a thank you would be in order, but that does not explain why you are here?”

Relaxing her demeanour Makenzie turned and started to stare out the window at the empty space. “You rescue to be more of a problem then it was worth. Events began to spiral out of control, a snowball effect was created. As a result people simply vanished from existence, entire cities disappeared, million upon millions lives were affected.”

Henry had never though about what effect the actions of the present would have on the past. With Tappee entering the war people died, people who should have lived and had there own children. But now they where dead, and those children would no longer exist, nor would there children’s children, the further in the future that you would go the larger that the effect would be. “So you are here to fix this then”

Makenzie glance over towards Henry “It’s not that simple. The future has become unstable, and we have no idea of how this is going to end. The future itself hangs in the balance with the outcome of the war, all we can do know is to try and minimize the damage. There are a select few individuals that are fighting in this war that play an important part in the future, we are here to make sure that they survive and do what they were meant to do. We are in a sense Temporal Bodyguards.” She turned to leave “I’ve already told you to much, I should leave now”

Watching her go Henry realized that he want to ask her one more question. “Earlier you said the you felt the we should not be involved in this war. But I would have thought that you of all people would want to see NiMbus brought down, after all they did kill your father.”

Makenize stopped, she kept her back toward Henry, instead she glanced over her should. “NiMbus didn’t kill we father. Deep down you know the truth; you just have been unwilling to accept it. You must ask your self who you want to win this, you have to find the lesser of the two evils. The world is not black and white, only shades of grey.” With that she walked away.

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Jade Allenson

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Jon Anerton

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Makenzie Allenson

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Henry Kobe

"Are these tears?" Nemerov thought outloud as he wiped the water from his eyes. How long has it been since I cried...?

The doors flew open, revieling a very dressed-up Dr. Ackerman. "I'm here, I'm here monsieur!"

Aren't I more edgy by now?

The doctor took off his overcoat, showing off his completely white suit. "Your angel has come to bring you salvation, Alex."

Maybe I'm dying anyhow?

"Take it," Ackerman commanded, handing Nemerov the anti-venom. Nemerov, however, turned his head. "Oh come now, monsieur, don't be a fool." But Nemerov was finally sick of it.

"Why the act, Robert?" He replied. "Why the suit? Why the accent?"

"It's simple" the doctor responded. "Because I can. Now take the serum."

"No," Nemerov said. He was tired...so tired...

"You won't last more than a week," Dr. Ackerman said, his voice raising. Nemerov could sense the tension in his words. He had changed the doctor's plans, and he liked to see that damned man in pain. Nemerov wanted more.

"It doesn't matter anymore," Nemerov continued. "They'll destroy you...you're growing weaker. In reality, you're almost as worthless as I am."

Dr. Ackerman squinted his eyes into a glare, not knowing what to make of his rebellious servant. "You ran this Empire into the ground, Alex. I'm all it has left. It needs me, just as much as you do. Here, take the serum."

"No," Nemerov said, smiling. "I'll die, just like you always wanted. The Empire will be your's....Or is it that you need me alive?"

"You, monsieur, are a fool in the planest sense of the word," Dr. Ackerman said. "Besides," the doctor grinned an evil grin. "There are plenty more where you came from." He reached down, and plucked a strand of hair out of Nemerov's head, turned around, and left the room.

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Emperor Alexander Nemerov
Star Empire of Steel Butterfly,
In the Orion Sector which includes:
Steel Isle, Steel Moon,
CTaNbHaR Eabo4Ka, XIII,
Aeisis, Bivens, Esthar VIII
Orion Sector Alliance Premier,
Order of the Seraphim

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Dr. Robert Ackerman
CEO, President, and Lead Developer
NiMBUS Biotechnologies

A small single fighter dropped out of hyperspace and into to black empty void of normal space.

Quickly the pilot checked his sensors for his target, but found that he was the only one here. His mission was simple, but next to impossible at the same time. He was to find, and then to make contact with Michael Zephyr. Which was no easy task, he was wanted by both the Rebel, and Imperial forces, he had a vested interested in remaining hidden. Truly it was like trying to find a needle in a haystack. There was a lot of space in which someone could hide in the Orion sector, so to narrow it down he began his search in area where there was little imperial and Rebel presence, those would be good places to hide.

Despite the lack of sensor reading the pilot turned the craft over to manual control, there were a number of sensor blind spots in this sector of space that he would have to check visually.

They sat around a long conferance table and listened to the intelligence brief. Some bored and feigning interest, some genuinely interested, others.....merely indifferent. There were more stars in that room than one could count - some earned through courage and valor, and some through.....less honorable means. Terse conversation traveled around the table, no one quite willing to take a firm stance less they become a target themselves.

Emblazoned on the viewscreen for all to see was Steel Butterfly. War torn and roiling with interval civil conflict, the Orion sector empire had become a liablity for the Order and, as such, Sketch. Concise statistics readouts scrolled across the screen, displaying the latest intelligence regarding military and civilian loses from the many pitched battles. Color coded sections revealed the general areas of control of the two distinct factions - the imperials and the rebels; information that proved to be upsetting to some in the room. Even more disturbing was rumor that several Order members had developed an interest in the outcome of the civil "dispute" and have already begun taking action. This was regarded as a problematic issue - the term "rumor" only means that the information has yet to be diplomatically confirmed, it was considered "fact" as far was strategic planning was concerned.

Dicussions around the table ran the gamut from cutting ties with the Orion sector empire altogether to "assisting the re-establishment" of the empire to the current status of doing nothing. There was a general concensus to maintain more or less stable footing around the "passive observance" option, being the safest stance out of them all, but everyone in the room knew and acknowledged the futility of such indecision.

With a snap, lights at the far end of the room flashed on, illuminating an empty high-backed chair. Immediately the room fell into a deep silence, as all eyes turned towards the seat with sharp attention. A holo-image flickered to life, revealing a figure enveloped in shadows, a pale, porcelein white face, and glittering jewls adorning an extravagant mantel.

Have you come to a conclusion? mewled the dark figure. Have the military powers of Sketch finally decided what to do with the degrading situation in the Orion sector? My advisors inform me that action must be taken soon, lest this internal conflict grow to something more. the tone had become decidedly more sharp. I find your performance to be quite unsatisfactory, perhaps some reassignments are in order..... With that final statement, the holo-image winked out, leaving roomful of distressed and protesting officers.

==========================================================

Some days later.....

ENCRYPTION LEVEL DIPLOMATIC GAMMA BLUE

To: Emporer Nemerov, subroute Star Empire consulate
From: Das Sketch, subroute Sketch Imperium consulate
Subj: Domestic disturbance within the Star Empire
Msg:

To his Imperial highness, Alexander Nemerov,
I find it disturbing that this "uprising" has gone on as long as it has. I seem to recall being assured that this matter was to be settled with all due haste and with minimal disruption towards our mutual plans. As time passes continuously on, I find myself increasingly doubtful of a satisfactory conclusion to this "civil disturbance". My sources indicate that the rebels have become increasingly bold and your much vaunted imperial forces are waning in strength and numbers. The situation is unacceptable. The CSf will be mobilized to assist in stabalizing the empire. I expect them to receive your full cooperation when they arrive.

Lady Jagara,
Das Sketch, Ruler of the Imperium

==========================================================

At roughly the same time period

ENCRYPTION LEVEL ORDER ALPHA BLACK

To: All members nations of the Order
From: The Sketch Imperium
Subj: CSF mobilization
Msg:

I, Das Sketch of the Sketch Imperium, the One and Only True Seraphim, shall use my discretionary powers as leader of the Order of the Seraphim to mobilize the Combined Seraphim Forces to engage in civil disturbance suppression action within the Orion sector. All member nations with grievances must state them within ten standard days in order to receive a hearing. Members of the advisory council shall meet in no less than thirty standard days to review all such greivances and schedule a hearing as appropriate.

Lady Jagara,
Das Sketch, Ruler of the Imperium
The One and Only True Seraphim

At roughly the same time period

ENCRYPTION LEVEL ORDER ALPHA BLACK

To: All members nations of the Order
From: The Sketch Imperium
Subj: CSF mobilization
Msg:

I, Das Sketch of the Sketch Imperium, the One and Only True Seraphim, shall use my discretionary powers as leader of the Order of the Seraphim to mobilize the Combined Seraphim Forces to engage in civil disturbance suppression action within the Orion sector. All member nations with grievances must state them within ten standard days in order to receive a hearing. Members of the advisory council shall meet in no less than thirty standard days to review all such greivances and schedule a hearing as appropriate.

Lady Jagara,
Das Sketch, Ruler of the Imperium
The One and Only True Seraphim

The encoded message was "opened" by only the high members of the Vrak Military High Command. Specifically, the High General, The Intelligence Director, the High Air Marshal, and the High Admiral. The King himself listened in via videophone.

-Well. The Order has finally taken action.
-About time. Frankly, the whole issue with Steel Butterfly is quite complicated. And, I should add, far beyond any of our capabilities.
-True, but we do lend economic and industrial might to the Order. Therefore, we must support the official Order position. Besides, rebellion creates disharmony, which can be destabilizing.
-Enough of your Bok religious preaching about harmony. We are duty bound to support the Order.
-Right. All in favour?

Four great heads bowed in assent.

-My liege?

The voice that replied sounded very old, like a wheezing locomotive on its last run.

-Yes. Issue a statement of support. Now...I must rest.

====

To: Das Sketch, Ruler of the Imperium
From: Vrak Diplomatic Corps
Subject: CSF mobilization

We fully support your decision and you have the resources and industrial might of Vrak at your disposal to aide in the CSF efforts.

"James..." Dave Bivens said, entering the man's office.

"I'm tearing it down..." James Pierce replied, his head in his hands. "How many years have they fought to build it up? Now...now my selfishness is destroying everything. I ask what gives us the right to do this and that...grouping us all into one catagory. But really it's me. What gave me the right to set this war in motion? I thought I had everything under control...but it was out of control long ago..."

"You can't do this alone James," Bivens responded. "And I think you know that. You're trying to win the war yourself, and it's tearing you apart. Look at yourself."

"I aimed too high, David," Pierce stated, looking Bivens in the eye for the first time during the conversation. "We should have went with terrorism. We could have blown up NiMBUS facilities, assassinated leaders, that sort of thing. It could have been done that way."

"Damnit James we haven't lost yet!" Bivens exclaimed, putting his hand on his mentor's shoulder once more. "Listen...the problem with most people isn't aiming too high and failing...it's aiming too low and reaching it. Look at your followers! If you were wrong, they wouldn't still be here. If you were wrong, we wouldn't still be here. James, they believe in what we're doing. They believe in you. I can't be here for this invasion James...I have a corporation and a planet to run...and you know that Demidov won't be here unless he can get something out of it. The resistance needs you James..."

James Pierce stared up at the painting on his domed ceiling. James Foxx was slaying demons as he always did, looking down on Pierce with his angelic stare. Pierce remembered comparing himself to Foxx back when this had started. How foolish he had been.

"He fought because it was what he had to do," Bivens said, turning back before he left the room. "James Foxx said that sometime before his death. He said there was nothing else to do but fight."

"He would have been killed otherwise..."

"So would we..." Bivens replied, shutting the door quietly behind him.

http://67.18.37.14/129/44/upload/p348.jpg
Sir James Pierce
Political Head of the Resistance

http://67.18.37.14/129/44/upload/p357.jpg
Dave Bivens
President/CEO of Bivens Co.

“Damn it” yelled Jade as she read the message before her, her day had went from bad to worse in the matter of five minutes. So this is how it is going to end thought to herself. All the time that has been spent, the lives that have been lost, will it have been for nothing.

Jade looked across her desk at Harold Armstrong, Tappee’s foreign minister. “How bad is it, who do they have for support right now.?”

Opening his file Harold read over a few facts “As of right now the only member of that has said anything is Vrak, and they have said that they are giving full support to Sketch and the Order, other then that nothing else has bees said official.”

Jade sat back in her chair and thought for a moment “This is what I want you to do” a plan was forming in her head “File a grievance with the order, make every possible effort to delay the deployment and mobilization of the CSF, make it very clear that we will not deviate from our present course of action. Also contact the Vrak government, let see if we can call in a few favours, we provide assistance when they needed it, let see if they will return the favour and change their position.” She then turned her attention to General Williams “How soon can we expect the arrival of CSF forces in the area?”

“It’s going to take them some time to organize and deploy” quickly answered the General. “We might see some of Sketchs forces in the area soon, but it will be awhile until a sizeable CSF force arrives in the area.”

This proved to be a bit of good news. “This means that we may have to move ahead our timetable ahead of schedule, and we may see the withdraw of the Clairmont forces. Contact the Rebel command, tell them that we want to move the attack date ahead as much as possible, and also tell them that we have no intention of leaving them now, and that we are making every possible effort to fix the situation.

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


To: Government of Vrak
From: Tappee Foreign Affairs
Subject: CSF mobilization

We have learned that your government’s current position in the Orion Conflict is to fully support the Mobilization of the CSF. We would like to formally request that you change your position and boycott the deployment of the CSF. Then Government of Steel Butterfly is currently protecting a Terrorist organization that has claimed lives of over 300,000 of our citizens, and destroyed Billions of dollars in property.

The Government of Steel Butterfly has continually looked the other way while innocent blood was spilled. Are you willing to help support the murderous actions these individuals by aiding the Imperial force.

Our government has help you in the past and up until now has asked nothing in return.

Signed
Harold Armstrong
Tappee foreign Minister



To: All Members of the Order
From: Tappee Foreign Affairs
Subject: Grieving CSF deployment in the Orion Sector

The Government of Tappee is formally announcing it intention to file a grievance with the deployment of the CSF in the Orion sector. Tappee under no circumstance will provide any type of support any type of military support to CSF deployment in the Orion Sector. Our forces in the area will continue to follow through with their mission parameter. We would like to argue that with the support of the terrorist group known as NiMbus and with the COMPLETE destruction of a Tappee city formally know as Tatania, the government of Steel Butterfly as committed acts of war against us, and unworthy of support from the Order. We will continue to seek retribution for the unprovoked attacks made against us by the government of Steel Butterfly, and as such anyone seen aiding the Government of Steel Butterfly will seen as enemy of Tappee itself, and will be dealt with as such.

It saddens us to see that the order has side with a group of murders, which kills indiscriminately. It was our understanding that this organization should to protect the weak and the innocent, and today we feel that the order has failed in that goal. We can only hope that the members of the Order can realize the error of the current course of action before it is to late. We trust in your ability to make the right decision.

Signed
Harold Armstrong
Tappee Foreign Minister
b

"Shit." It was the one and only word that First Space Lord Caparelli stated as he read the transmission from Sketch. So this is how it would all end. Not in the hands of the Imperials of Steel Butterfly annihilating the Rebels and killing James Pierce, no but rather by the hand of the Order putting an end to the war once and for all. And it was clear that Sketch would have every intention of supporting Nemerov, not the Rebels. In short, it was all over, all that remained now was for it to be officially over.

He glanced at the strategic map set to display the Orion Sector and the holdings of the fighting factions there. Thomas Caparelli was not a man to fall to despair, but his feelings were something very near to it at this moment. He sighed and started to think how he would tell about this to Fleet Admiral Harrington.

Orion Sector

Honor Harrington did not swear, or when she did, she did it in the company of only one or two people whom she knew very very well. Now, she could not avoid it.

"Shit." She exclaimed, silently but bitterly as she read the message transcript from her computer screen. It was an official communicae from Sketch, basically telling that the Order Military would be coming to the Orion Sector to end the war, and end it in the favor of Emperor Nemerov no less. Nothing had came in from the CSN Admiralty yet, but she figured it was nothing but a matter of time, a day or two perhaps.

"What do we do know skipper?" Asked Rear Admiral Thomas Theisman, a man who Honor Harrington had known very well for over a decade.

Honor turned her chair to look out of her viewport at the planet Aesis laying there in space. It had all been for nothing if this was allowed to pass, all those people she had gotten killed in combat had died for absolutely nothing. She wouldnt allow it, she couldnt allow it. There was yet one possibility, one futile hope.

"We do it now, the attack against Steel Butterfly. We must do it before the CSF forces arrive here because we cant possibly begin to fight them." She said.

Theisman crossed his legs on the sofa placed near the bulkhead, thinking furiously.

"You're thinking of bringing down the official government before the CSF forces arrive and placing the new government in that place?"

She nodded.

"Exactly, if the official government is gone by the time the CSF arrives, if i miss my bet, they wont start to bring down the new government in the vain hope of scraping up the old. But we need to do the attack now, it is do or die now and our time has ran out." She said.

Theisman nodded in agreement.

Harrington turned towards her computer, beginning to shape up a message to James Pierce and the Rebellion High Command, in the hopes that they would not start bickering about it now.

======================================================
To: Rebel Alliance High Command
From: Fleet Admiral Honor Harrington

Ladies and Gentlemen, as you all well know the CSF will be arriving soon to enforce Nemerovs control of the Orion Sector, thus effectively bringing an end to the war. The one and only way i could fathom to avoid things returning back to as they were before the war, and these many months and casualties not being absolutely useless, is us to commence our attack against Steel Butterfly immidietly, without no further delays. The only chance we have at the moment is to replace the old Government with the new before the CSF forces arrive. It is my belief that if the old Government is gone by the time they arrive, they wont start a war against the new in order to restore the old. But it is of absolute importance that the attack begin within the next couple of days, otherwise it will be too late.

=====================================================

As she read thru the message, she was pleased at how it had formed up, and punched the transmission button, sending the message to the outbound queue on the Fearless's comm systems, and bound to the planet below.

"I take it you've seen the report..." Captain Apakoh said as Sky Marshall Zephyr stepped onto the bridge. Zephyr nodded as he walked to the Captain's chair. Apakoh stood, saluted, and moved to the seat to Zephyr's right.

"I don't like what I see, Captain," Zephyr said in a dark tone. "As we're fighting to get these infidels out of our home, even more come. It could not be a worse situation."

"You have a plan, sir?" Apakoh assumed.

"Precisely," The Sky Marshall replied. "We cannot allow these foreigners to enter into Orion Space. This is our space, Captain. Neither the Empire nor the Resistance care at all about the effect they're having on our home. It is up to us now...we must protect what is ours. Give the order, Captain. We're going to blockade those Seraphim bastards. Make them fire the first shots."

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p61.jpg
Sky Marshall Michael Zephyr
Former Commander,
Imperial Fleet and Marines

http://67.18.37.14/129/44/upload/p126.jpg
Captain Lusec Apakoh
81st Imperial Marines

Dave Bivens read over the notes. In a matter of hours, he had recieved more memos than he could remember ever recieving. He would do his job, pass the notes on to Pierce, and leave. Bivens had a planet to take care of...and that was his primary job.

"Wait up!" a gruff voice came from behind as Bivens headed to the shuttlebay. It was from there that he would get a ride to his starship. "I wouldn't advise leaving right now..."

Bivens stopped, turned, and faced General Valkare, who was running up to catch him. "The Seraphim Fleet is coming soon, so we're moving the attack up."

"General, it takes less than an hour to get home on the lowest impulse level," Bivens replied, eager to leave. "Besides, as you said, the Seraphim Fleet is coming. Don't you have enough to worry about?"

"I don't even think of them," Valkare said. "As long as they stay out of the way, they're no concern to me. If they get in our way, we'll blast through them. It's either they ignore us, and we ignore them, or they get their asses fried. It's quiet simple really."

"I sure hope so," Bivens said as he entered the pod. Valkare shook his head as the door shut and the shuttle pod took off.

It would be a short trip, Bivens thought to himself. Ten minutes at most. But then again, he wasn't expecting company.

"Hello, David," a voice said from the shadows of the pod. Instantly, Bivens turned on the lights, revieling a man dressed in an Imperial uniform who was currently aiming a gun at Bivens' head.

"Fleet Admiral Dratsab," Bivens said dryly. "How nice of you to join me..."

"Shut up," Dratsab ordered, his hand shaking.

"You're an idiot," Bivens replied, staring at the wall. If only I could get to... He tested the Admiral by slowly stepping back and fourth.

"I said freeze!"

"No you didn't," Bivens said, hoping to make the man mad. He had known of Dratsab for a good while. The man had no spine.

The Admiral turned to imput something into the pod's computer, and as he did, Bivens reached for a drawer and pulled out a knife. Hearing the drawer open, Dratsab fired, missing by a good distance even in the small pod. He aimed the gun again, but Bivens was faster, stabbing the Admiral in his gun arm. Bivens then punched his pathetic captor, knocking the man to the floor.

"You kill me," Dratsab begged. "...and you can't stop this ship from going to Steel Moon..."

"You wouldn't tell me anyhow," Bivens spat, driving the blade deep into Dratsab's throat. All the rage, all the hidden agression was thrust into the Admiral as the man made a choking sound and then quickly expired. His suit covered in blood, Bivens tried the controls. They were all encrypted.

A single thought, How the hell did he get in that pod?, raced through Bivens' mind until at last, reality began to sink in. What the hell did I just do?. Staring down at the fallen Imperial Admiral, Bivens felt sick.

http://67.18.37.14/129/44/upload/p357.jpg
Dave Bivens
President/CEO of Bivens Co.

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p640690.jpg
General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p641927.jpg
Fleet Admiral Jerry Dratsab
XO of the Imperial Defense Fleet

Robert Fyre, Grand Overlord of Cspalla, started the day as he did everyday: checking his messages. It was mainly the same old-same old, general business of running a nation. Then one caught his eye….CSF Mobilization? What could that be? he thought, keying the system to display the message.

Error code 71-20: Current security access level insufficient to view message.
Message encryption level: Order Alpha Black
Please log in with required clearance.

Alpha black? This is serious. After a moment of thought, Robert called up his terminal's security log in system, selected the option marked OS Log In, and input the proper codes. He saw a light on his chair's arm blink as the embedded DNA scanners confirmed his identity. Once logged in, he again commanded the message's opening. He read it, his face getting brighter and brighter as he read. Soon he was nearly yelling in delight.

"'Civil disturbance suppression action?' Yes! Finally, the Order is waking up and taking action!" A few Order nation won't like this though….screw them. If the fools want to support rebels, they can whine all they want about the Order enforcing some decent law.

He quickly drafted a message to Sketch, pledging full Cspallan support to any action the Order would take in suppressing the Orion uprising.

Then he came across a second message, directed to all Order nations by Tappee. Fools. Terrorist group? What kind of nonsense is that? Sure, NiMbus has some….questionable policies, but that’s far from terrorism.

Then, he drafted a return message to Tappee.

To: Government of Tappee
From: Robert Fyre, Grand Overlord of the Grand Dominion of Cspalla
Subject: Tappee's Grievance

This is to formally inform you that your effort will receive no support from us. Indeed, you should know we oppose it, vehemently. In addition, any direct acts against Order forces by any Tappee force could be seen as an act of war against the Grand Dominion. We urge to revise your position on this subject, and at the very least assume a neutral position, for the good of all involved.

In the office of President Abadas

"So!" he bellowed, anger caused by the passage of many a calm younger year, many emotions suppressed in the name of politics. "This is just what we need. Offensive action in a civil war, moblization of the CSF and the ITDO as well."

Marcos Fernando replied, "There is no order for the ITDO."

Instead of calming the Lord President, he snapped, "Yes, unfortunately there is. The CSF includes the Combined Resources Corps, not just the Joint Interplanetary Legions. The CRC includes everything. The ITDO."

Shaking his head, Fernando muttered, "How Bob Pratt managed to sign such an agreement..."

"He didn't, Marcos. At least, by that time, someone other than he was in charge. And it wasn't me, either... if that's what you're thinking."

Marcos bowed his head. "No, my Lord."

This had the effect that was needed, and a calming came before Abadas. He was now thinking rationally, as he was wont to do, folding his hands before his chin.

"This will have an adverse effect on the outcome of the TNE election," he said at last. "We'll spin it, but the TNE can't be controlled like before. I know that now. The truth will come out, and the people will object, and so the megacorps will, and the others will use it to gain power."

Marcos Fernando, who had been thinking along similar lines all along, nodded and said, "Therefore we can either refuse the Order and suffer those consequences, or accept the Order, mobilize and suffer these consequences. Or perhaps, if our role is smaller... after all, our military has been stripped back, with the funding given to the Order itself. Most of our force will be quite useless for a war in the Orion Sector."

Gravely, Abadas shook his head. "The JIL has at their disposal thousands of transports. Their ships can piggyback our own warships. We will have to be involved, though I can order Cheng to aim for a support role. This will be easier because of our development of strategic rather than tactical power, and it's unlikely anyone would want the Frozen Infantry, say, deployed in this civil action."

For a moment, there was silence. "Then again, this is Sketch we're talking about."

Heinrid Abadas nodded. "I will give the order to mobilize. The TNE can be handled in other ways, but this is what we must do. Marcos, I want you to represent the CoFedCo as chairman of the Seraphim Advisory Council. Call for a meeting within 48 hours. You won't have to travel anywhere, just set it up in the teleconference room, hear out grievances and do as little as possible."

---

The ITDO began to mobilize. Military channels were flooded with activity, on Earth, Luna, Mars and even to Mercury, where 12 OOTG vessels had managed to make it on time for a belated wargame. Now it looked like the time for games was over, and Mercury would soon seem closer to home than the crews would ever imagine.

To: All Order members
From: Tappee Foreign Affairs
Subject: CSF deployment

The government of Tappee would like to formally request that the CSF deployment be delayed until the matter of the Orion Conflict can be brought before the members of the Advisory Council. We would like to be given the opportunity to present our case before a final decision be made.

Harold Armstrong
Tappee Foreign Minister

To: Government of Vrak
From: Tappee Foreign Affairs
Subject: CSF mobilization

We have learned that your government’s current position in the Orion Conflict is to fully support the Mobilization of the CSF. We would like to formally request that you change your position and boycott the deployment of the CSF. Then Government of Steel Butterfly is currently protecting a Terrorist organization that has claimed lives of over 300,000 of our citizens, and destroyed Billions of dollars in property.

The Government of Steel Butterfly has continually looked the other way while innocent blood was spilled. Are you willing to help support the murderous actions these individuals by aiding the Imperial force.

Our government has help you in the past and up until now has asked nothing in return.

Signed
Harold Armstrong
Tappee foreign Minister


The Intelligence Director read the message over again. By Bok’s maw, he thought, if this situation isn’t brought under control we could have another Eizen on our hands, but worse. Carefully, he wrote out his reply….

To: Harold Armstrong – Tappee Foreign Minister – Tappee Foreign Affairs
From: Vrak Diplomatic Corps
Subject: CSF Mobilization

To be frank, we are not completely aware of the entire situation with Steel Butterfly. Suffice to say though, that we feel that a unified front behind Sketch is the best course of action. That is, from what we know, Emperor Nemerov has been given enough time to “get his house in order” as it were. Conversely, this means that opposing forces should have been able to, well, topple him.

We really don’t want to see any division created from this entire issue. We’ll wait for the formal proceedings to begin and reserve our final judgement then. I’m afraid that is the best that we can do at this moment in time.

Lady Jagara shook her head and sighed. This is what happens when you allow others handle handle such responsibilities. The Order intelligence gatherer, Steel Butterfly, embroiled in conflict, has not ben able to keep up with the task of intelligence. Not to mention, failing to provide critical intelligence regarding themselves. When you want something done right, you have to do it yourself. The whole point of the Order was to allow Sketch to relax, it had been quietly draining on the imperium to maintain such high levels of vigilence and militarism - hence, the final decision to seek out alliances. But as usual, the inherently weak structure of group cooperation fails in the face of conflict. The Order needs a strong will to guide it. And I shall be that driving force.

==========================================================

To: All members nations of the Order
From: The Sketch Imperium
Subj: Delay of CSF mobilization
Msg:

Until the advisory council meets and determines that it would be most prudent to delay the mobilization of the CSF, I will not consider it.

The destruction of Tatania is a well documented incident. As previously stated, it was a direct result of terrorist actions, not that of the Steel empire government. All cases brought forth on this basis will be disregarded unless more compelling information can be presented.

The Order, and as such, I, has the responsibility to ensure the continuation of peace and order amongst the various members. This includes settling disputes before they become conflicts. A review of the records will show that no such complaint was ever logged against Steel Butterfly with the Order. Should the Tappee government choose to file a complaint, it will be reviewed.

The purpose of the CSF mobilization is to return stability to the Orion sector. A destabalized member as large as Steel Butterfly leaves the Order vulnerable to strife and outside influence. This direct threat to the Order must be addressed immediately. The fact that it had been overlooked for this long was decision made based upon false information and misleading statements.

As for the nature of the forces being mobilized, all soldiers of the CSF belong to the CSF. They will fight for the Order and not any one nation's personal objectives. All member contributions to the CSF belong to the Order until the assignment time is complete. Additional, non-Order, military support will not be required.

I do this for the Order, not out of personal gain. Remember that well.

Lady Jagara,
Das Sketch, Ruler of the Imperium
The One and Only True Seraphim

Noachia, Mars

TacSub Rolin Day was awoken. Suddenly.

The dreams began to fade. Were they memories? His mind was covered in a thick fog, and it was difficult to tell. He seemed to remember dreaming again, the fitful slumber that, the F.I were told, couldn't occur in cryosuspension.

He became aware of the barracks. Others were being revived as well. No one was talking much. No one tends to want to immediately engage in conversation after a few - weeks? years? - of sleep. The drugs had yet to kick in fully.

Shaking, he stepped out onto the cold floor, in search of his clothing and uniform. He wasn't sure if there was a war on, or just another excercise, but he had a tactical group to command either way. Dreams about green skies would have to wait til off-duty hours.


SENDER: Lord High Executive Marcos Fernando, Representative of the Corporate Federal Conglomerate of Santa Barbara, Acting Chairman of the Seraphim Advisory Council
RECIPIENT: All Order Member National Governments
PRIORITY: L5 Urgent

I hereby call the Advisory Council to order, to hear out all grievances and confirm decisive action to be taken in response to recent events concerning the Star Empire of Steel Butterfly in the Orion Sector. We will begin once all concerned members have received and activated the teleconference code, which will follow this message in encrypted TBL relay. That is all.

"Rei!"

"Rei where are you?!?!"

"Come on Rei...I'm lost in here!" Alexei shouted down the cold and winding halls of the temple. On the walls were beautiful paintings, pictures of history long past. But when Alexei caught up to Rei, the walls were bare.

"NiMBUS was here..." Rei concluded, touching the wall gently with his fingers. "They wiped the record clean, eliminating it from history...as they tried to do with my people. But no...my people were smarter. They stored their notes on paper as well. The directions to these notes are so obvious...written on the walls...but NiMBUS couldn't read them. They didn't understand the language. Those bastards...they stole these worlds from us...and now I will steal them back!"

"Whoa..." Alexei grunted as Rei pushed past him. "W-what are you doing? Why is you god named Nimbus?"

"My people are in touch with nature, Alexei," Rei said. "Nimbus, the name, it tipped me off some time ago. Now, from the notes, I understand. NiMBUS did experiments...with Aurals. A century ago, Dante Graav ordered the genocide of my race. NiMBUS, armed with the Q-virus, carried it out. My people...they didn't even fight back."

"A century ago?" Alexei mused. "But...the Q-virus came out around 40 years ago...and NiMBUS...oh my..."

"Exactly!" Rei shouted, as if there were other among them. "NiMBUS feigned that outbreak. They didn't want an Earth colony...and NiMBUS always gets what they want. The nuclear attack on Kyou Graav was by NiMBUS! He found out what their real job was!"

"My God..."

"Don't you see..." Rei explained as he walked. "Humanity is a poison...NiMBUS, a cancer. Humans infect world upon worlds, destroying each in the process. Our blood cures their diseases, and to thank us, my people, the humans kill us all! But I'm not going to destroy humanity, Alexei, I'm not foolish. I'm going to kill its bastard son....NiMBUS...I'm the last of my race, Alexei."

"What about me?" Alexei asked. "How do I fit into this. Why did you bring me here?"

"Come now, Alexei," Rei said, stopping as they reached the exit. "You're far from human..."

"What?"

"We're going to Steel Butterfly...I'm going to settle this...I'm going to fight for what's mine!"

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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Rei Warheit

It was sunny day, and the waves could be heard hitting the beach, it the perfect morning to talk politics. The Prime Minster of Iaceo, Robert Sanders had invited King Baraca Dorjin’s of Calnuxia to discuss the current situation on their neighbour, Tappee.

“I was hoping that you could some talk some sense into her.” Said Robert as he placed his coffee on the table. He was referring to Jade Allenson, Chair of Tappee Intelligence Tribunal. “We can ill afford to have Tappee fall, it would prove disastrous for the entire region. She may have been able to defeat Steel Butterfly but not this ‘Order’, they would be simple out gunned.”

Looking away from the view Baraca addressed Roberts assessment of the situation “We both know how stubborn that woman is. Besides you forget that Tappee itself is a member of the ‘Order’, and that it would prove to be a diplomatic nightmare for everyone involved if hostilities broke out between Tappee and the ‘Order’. And if that happens then we may find ourselves being dragged in via the CDA.” The CDA stood for the Cave Defensive Alliance, which basically meant that if one member of Cave, the other members would come to their aid. If Tappee was attacked by the ‘Order’ and Tappee asked for help then they themselves would now be involved.

“That is the precise reason why I asked you here toady” quickly responded Robert. “I am suggesting the we side with Tappee now, and take control of the situation before it goes out of control.

Baraca was absolutely dumbfounded at what Robert was saying; it took him a few moments to think. “Ok, let say you are right, the constitutions in both our countries says that we can not start a war of aggression, the only why that we could go to war is through the CDA. Tappee has not asked for our assistance, I asked Jade over a year ago if she wanted my help and she said no. Our hand our tied.”

“Some time one must help their friends, even when their friend feels that they do not need the help.” A bit of a smile came across Roberts face. “Jade’s husband was your brother was he not? That would then make him a member of the Royal Family.”

Quickly Barace could see where Robert was going with this, and cut in “The Calnuxian constitution states that if a member of the Royal Family is attacked, then it is considered an attack on the State itself, and grounds for war. And NiMbus was the ones that where responsible for Cal’s”

Sitting back in his chair Robert made himself a bit more comfortable. “If Calnuxia has been attacked then it can request the aid of the CDA.”

“I’ve got mixed feelings about this” answered Baraca “The ‘Order maybe hesitant on engaging Tappee vessels but they will not have any hesitation on firing on us. Besides, we don’t have the resources to make much of a difference in the Orion Sector. It’s like two giants fighting in the sand box, we’re going to be caught in the middle.”

Leaning forward Robert looked Baraca in the eyes “She doesn’t need our forces, she needs our support.”

Letting out a sigh Baraca had no choice but to accept the truth, no matter what happened they would be forced to get involved, so it might as well be on their terms. “Very well, issue a joint statement”

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

Open Transmission all frequency’s and channels
To: All parties currently involved in the Orion Conflict.
From: The Governments of Calnuxia and Iaceo
Msg:

With the assassination of Calnux Dorjion a member of the Calnuxian Royal family by the Terrorist group known as NiMbus, under Article 15 section 5 of the Calnuxian constitution, we are asking that the Government of Steel Butterfly turn the member of NiMbus over to us. Failure to comply will be seen as support for NiMbus’s activities and will be seen as an act war. As such we will have no but to request aid from the Cave Defensive Alliance.

Dave awoke in his cell, exausted. He tasted the blood in his mouth, felt the bruises on his body. He had been beaten, and now he was captured.

What....what happened? Where am I?

But once he looked out, beyond the forcefield that contained him, the second question was worthless. NiMBUS's sign glowed in the darkness, and Bivens' heart sank. After all, he had murdered an Admiral, and NiMBUS was sure to punish him for it.

What am I doing? My father...he wouldn't have gotten captured. He...he wouldn't have left. I...

The walls sparkled as the light from the sign reflected off the metal. Bivens squinted and moved to another corner as not to see that damn word.

...I've failed...

Just then, three guards raced past, silent minus their rapid footsteps. An alarm sounded, and Dave could hear the sound of large doors slamming shut...the sound quickly become louder...closer...

"This way!" A voice shouted. "Room 342398-B"

Dave stared up at the ceiling. "Room 342398-B" was indented into the metal. A metal door slammed down just outside of the forcefield that was covering the only opening to his cell. However, as it hit the ground, it exploded, sending Bivens flying to the back of the cell and the door into many small pieces. Outside of his cell, one of the two men quickly disabled the forcefield while the other climbed inside and lifted Bivens on his shoulders.

"I...I can walk..." Dave forced out of his mouth, still in shock from the explosion. His ears were ringing and his eyes flashed, and the man didn't put him down.

"No, sir," the man said. "I think you better just stay up there."

Sir?

"Andrews, move!" the man carrying Bivens ordered as they exited the cell room into another identical one.

"You got it Ice-man," the man addressed as Andrews replied, taking the lead and gunning down three guards who approached them. "Ice-man" held Bivens on his left shoulder, while shooting his rifle from his right hip...the ODIN BattleArmor making the load easier.

"You...you can't be in here!" a NiMBUS guard said, as Andrews and "Ice-man" ran down the halls.

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"Fuck you," Andrews replied, aiming his pistol at the man's unguarded head and pulling the trigger.

In the next room, Andrews and "Ice-man" were pleasantly surprized to see the guards already dead. They seemed to be hacked to death, lying in pieces on the floor.

"Who the hell are you?" "Ice-man" asked, putting Bivens in a safe place on the floor. Bivens crawled out so he could see, as his two rescuers raised their rifles against the three silver-haired men, but they didn't even flinch. Perhaps they were captives too?

"I must thank you, humans," one said. "Your distraction has freed us. For this...you will be spared. Now get out of here, unless you want to meet the same fate as your bastard commrades."

"We're fighting them as well," Andrews replied, not lowering his rifle. "Come with us."

"No," the silver-haired men all said at once. They walked past Andrews and "Ice-man" and out the door that Bivens had come from.

To honest, Bivens wasn't sure how long it took them to get out of the compound. Thinking back, he decided that he must have fallen asleep. Now, in a starship of sorts, he was in what he figured was a back room, resting on a bed.

It honestly took effort to lift his beaten body off of the soft matress, but he managed, making his way to the cockpit.

"Sir," one of the two men said, noticing his entrance. Bivens couldn't tell them apart anymore, since they were now out of their armor. "Are you sure you're strong enough to walk?" This one had a black bandana tightly tied behind his head, with the straps freely flowing behind him, and was clothed in a marine's black battle garmets. The other, with brown hair, was clothed in fighter pilot crimson, and was flying the ship they were in.

"I..." Bivens said, thinking about his reply. "...am fine. Thank you two...I don't know how..."

"Lieutenant Joseph Frost," the one with the bandana replied. "...and that's Lieutenant Mark Andrews."

"Ice-man and Andrews," Bivens replied, remembering the escape. Joseph laughed at his companion's corny nick-name.

"We saw your pod crash," Andrews contined. "Figured that the Imperials wouldn't be storming one of their own. A man came out on a stretcher, and another was in chains. You have Joe here to thank. He thought it was you...and he came up with the plan."

"I thank you both," Bivens replied, amazed at his good fortune. "But what were you doing here in the first place?"

"Codes," Joseph said, holding up a briefcase.

"The Meta Four Mission?" Bivens asked.

"Exactly," Andrews replied from the pilot's chair.

"Then change your course," Bivens ordered. "We're heading to Steel Butterfly to rendezvous with the 16th Taskforce. They need these codes more than leadership does."

"Sir?"

"Yes, Lieutenant," Bivens replied. "We're attacking the capital...and because of the Order of the Seraphim, we're attacking the capital now."

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Dave Bivens
President/CEO of Bivens Co.

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Lieutenant Joseph Frost
Vehicle Specialist/Sniper,
1st Marines

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Lt. Commander Mark Andrews
"Raptor Zero"
15th Fighter Squadron

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...they couldn't be Aurals, now could they...?

[OOC NOTE] Just so everyone knows, as we have a lot more people here now, I'm going to be gone from Sunday, August 7th, until Friday the 13th or Saturday the 14. Also, the 15th is my birthday, so I'm not sure about that either. I should get on though Saturday afternoon/night (14th) and sometime Sunday (15th), at least for a small time.

In addition, please rate this thread a "5-star" when you get the chance. Some random asshole gave it a 1 after two people gave it 5's. This thread deserves more than a 3.67 rating.

Any questions? TG me. [/NOTE]

"Tomorrow..." Captain Leon Williams said as he swirled his vodka and tonic in his glass. "Tomorrow night...after Pierce and Valkare address us...we'll be heading out."

"What are we in for?" Commander Eric Vinzer asked, referring to their unit.

"Invasion," Leon replied. "Second wave..."

"Shit," Lieutenant Sean Athens commented, banging his beer off the table.

"Why aren't we doing Zero-Grav?" Eric asked. He had been assuming that they would be invading enemy ships. They were, after all, the most trained for such an operation.

"Because that's not the primary objective," Leon replied, matter of factly.

"So instead of us doing what we're trained to do...they use us as cannon fodder!" Sean said, obviously upset. "You know...if I wanted to do that...I would have joined the mobile infantry...not the Marines."

Eric chuckled. He didn't mean to, but now that he did it was obvious that he needed to explain his short bit of laughter. "Sean...you did join the mobile infantry. You became a marine after Aeisis..."

"Funny," Sean grumbled. "Real funny..."

"And you?" Leon asked. Lieutenant Katrina Brady looked up from her glass of red wine. Her eye makeup was smeared, and her lip trembled. It had taken everything they had to get her out of her room, where she had been the last three days. At a time like this, they though, she needed friends.

"I...I'm flying a dropship..." she whimpered. "You guys to be exact. I wish I was in a fighter...but without..." Kat stopped, trying to hold back the tears. She simply couldn't finish the sentence. Thinking quickly, Eric changed the subject.

"Any word on Mr. Bivens?" he asked, referring to the leader of the planet Bivens and the CEO of Bivens, Inc.

"Rumor has it that he was found," Leon said. "But then again, I'm not supposed to overhear Generals talking..."

"By who?" Sean asked, taking a drink. Leon smiled.

"By two men, also lost," Leon replied.

"No way..." Eric muttered. "You're not serious!"

"Do any of you guys know anyone stupid enough to break into a NiMBUS facility after they crashed on an Imperial planet just so they could rescue someone?" Leon asked, his smile growing larger each second.

Kat's whimpering stopped momentarily so that she could look Leon in the eyes. Sensing this, Leon removed his sunglasses for a second and nodded his head. Her only wish granted, Kat let it all out, as Eric held on to her for comfort.

"They're to be given the highest medal of honor for their brash...but surprisingly sucessful operation," Leon said. "Best part of all, that facility exploded after they left. NiMBUS took a huge loss."

"What planet was it on?" Sean asked, his excitement growing.

"Steel Moon," Leon replied. "But you guys didn't hear this. Neither did I for that matter."

Sean bid his farewells and left in the opposite direction of Leon, Eric, and Kat. After dropping Katrina off at her room, Leon and Eric walked back to their's, which were right next to each other.

"You sure you can't see anything," Eric asked in a low voice.

"Eric, I told you...the future is too damn unclear," Leon replied. "I could go there now and it would be one thing. Then I could come back and go to the exact same time, and it would be something completely different. Dave Bivens isn't alive where I come from, but then again, neither are you. Do you both die? Do you both live? Its best not to think about it. Live each day as they come, Eric."

Eric nodded as he came to the door. "And you?" he asked.

"It's the first thing we're taught," Leon replied, shutting his door behind him. They had a big day tomorrow, and sleep was most definately required.

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Captain Leon Williams
Leader of the 2nd Marines

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Commander Eric Vinzer
XO of the 2nd Marines

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Lieutenant Sean Athens
27th M.I., 2nd Marines

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Lieutenant Katrina Brady
"Raptor 1"
15th Fighter Squadron

"It's twisted now," the man commented. "Isn't it?"

"Am I dreaming again?" Alexei asked, as the man in shades was almost common place in his sleep anymore.

"You could say so," the man said. "But then again, when you dream, you're still alive. Your brain still works. You still remember."

"You seem to know all the answers," Alexei said. "What am I?"

"Hmm...You are what you aren't," the man replied. Alexei rolled his eyes.

"Riddles now?" he asked. Why can't this guy just give me a straight answer?

"When you realize what I said is true, you will most likely have forgotten it," the man continued, perfectly still.

"It's not easy to forget what you say," Alexei replied. "It always comes true. But then again...if you say I will forget it...perhaps I will..."

"Perhaps..."

"Back when I first met you...in that holoprogram...how did you do that?" Alexei asked. "Was that just a dream?"

"Now you're thinking," the man replied. It wasn't the reply Alexei wanted. "Could it have been real? Could I truely have the power to easily defeat Dr. Ackerman? Was your Dr. Ackerman truely as powerful as the real one is? And then...am I even real? They are your questions to answer, Alexei..."

"Hmm..." Alexei replied, thinking. "I...I think it was real. I don't think you have the power to defeat Dr. Ackerman...because if you did...you would have already. That being said...for some reason I have the feeling that you are real...and now that you said it...I bet when I fought him...Dr. Ackerman did hold back some. He didn't need to go all out..."

"Interesting answers..."

"When Rei said that the directions to the notes were written on the walls...but that the Imperials couldn't understand them...I could," Alexei continued. "Why?"

"Why do you think you would know the Ancient Language of the Aurals? What do you know about it?"

"I know that some still speak it," Alexei replied. "In fact the Zabrak all speak it. But...I've never learned it...and I've never seen a Zabrak in person. Yet those words...I read them perfectly. Am I...am I an Aural?"

The man in sunglasses simply laughed. "Look at your hair!" he said. "It's the easiest way to tell. Aurals have silver hair...and only Aurals have silver hair."

"Perhaps I dyed it and I don't remember..."

"Now you're being foolish, Alexei," the man replied. "You're not an Aural."

"Then explain to me how I'm not human, damnit!" Alexei asked, sitting down on the nothingness where he stood. "I was born to a mobster...I watched him gun down my mother in front of me. I saw him turn, his weapon aimed at me...and then the Imperials broke in and shot him. They gathered me up...and gave me to the Academy."

"How could you remember that? It was so long ago..."

"I don't think I could ever forget," Alexei replied. "I loved my mother...I still do..."

"Alexei...you never knew your parents..."

"What?" Alexei demanded, standing up once more. "Of course I did!"

"Your mind is closing, Alexei..."

"Bullshit!" Alexei exclaimed.

"When have I been wrong, Alexei? Open your mind...realize who you are..."

"Shut up!" Alexei yelled. "Get the fuck away from me! You're a liar! Shut the fuck up!"

"Fine..." the man said, walking away. "We'll meet again..."

"You stay out of my dreams, you hear me!?!?" Alexei screamed after the man, who vanished in the nothingness. "You stay the fuck away!"

But instead Rei was right next to him, looking down and looking worried.

"What did you see?" Rei asked, concerned.

"Nothing," Alexei snapped. How was he still mad? How did Rei know about his dreams?

"It's quite alright..." Rei replied, calmer than he was back in the temple. "Just relax..."

"No," Alexei said, standing. "It's not alright. It's not alright how some bastard in sunglasses talks to me in my dreams, and everything he says comes true. It's not alright that I survive when millions of others don't. It's not alright that I could read every fucking word in that temple, when I shouldn't be able to. It's not alright that you tell me I'm not human, and then act like I should know I'm not. It's not alright that my dreams tell me that my parents aren't really my parents, and that the way he says it is so real that it pisses me off like this. It's not..."

"I don't know what you are," Rei replied, looking Alexei in the eyes. "I just...I can feel it. I doubt you could understand."

"Well I don't know who I am anymore," Alexei said, flopping back down on the bed, his head starting to spin. "...and I can feel it too, Rei. I'm scared...of what it means..."

"Perhaps it's just an emotion," Rei said.

"I'm not an Aural," Alexei replied. Rei looked at him as if to say "Obviously." "...and you and the dream guy say I'm not a human..." Rei gave him the same look. It wasn't what Alexei wanted to see, and so he closed his eyes.

"There are millions of species in the universe, Alexei," Rei tried to explain. "Each one has a different...feel to them." He paused, gathering his words to make sense. "But you...you feel very alive...that's not in question. However...it's almost like you shouldn't be here. I don't feel...you. I can't explain it...and I have a feeling that the only one who can is that doctor from NiMBUS."

"You said your people didn't fight back," Alexei said. "But if they all are as powerful as you claim to be...why didn't they win...and why didn't you catch the Q-virus like the others?"

"I...I can't say I know the answers to those questions either..." Rei said. "And even now, as you sleep, another one has come to me..."

"I don't feel alone anymore..."

"Is it me?" Alexei asked, not sure what Rei meant.

"No...I meant my people...I don't feel alone...there...there seems to be others..."

"Rei," Alexei said, pulling the covers back over his shoulders. "That makes no sense at all."

"I know," Rei said, walking back to the pilot's chair. "I know..."

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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Man in Glasses

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Rei Warheit

The sun rose and set among the planets as another day passed, and the universe laid unaware of the acts about to take place.

"Gentlemen," General Jack Valkare of Esthar, the one known as Lionheart, addressed the troops, his voice booming and echoing throughout the enormous hangar. "Please allow me to personally welcome you to this day of reconing. For on this day, the very fate of our homes, and perhaps the universe, will be decided. It is up to you to decide this fate...which fate will you chose?!?!"

'VICTORY! VICTORY! VICTORY!" The soldiers chanted as loud as they could. Valkare stood above them all, his arms across his chest, and a slight smile on his face.

"James Pierce could not be with you today," Valkare told them. "So I must deliver his message in his place. Men, I'm not going to lie to you. In no way will this war be easy. In no way will you all walk away feeling victorious. Statistics say that most of you will perish on this mission, and statistics say that we will lose this battle...but we are not statistics. Fate has smiled upon you this day, the fate of an Empire in your hands. You see the distant flames approaching as you march off to you death, but as the blasts pass through your body, they will not defeat your spirit...THEY WILL NOT DEFEAT THE SPIRIT OF JUSTICE! THEY CANNOT CALM THE SPIRIT OF VICTORY! THEY WILL NEVER KILL THE SPIRIT...OF THE RESISTANCE!"

"VICTORY! VICTORY! VICTORY!" The men cheered as they left for their dropships. The room was instantly filled with smoke as the ships took off for their carriers.

Valkare smiled down upon his men, fate himself, as he ordered them off to their almost certain deaths. But if they were to win, he thought, it would all be worth it. He would give his own life for victory, he told himself, and he was about to tempt fate by going into battle, against every instinct that told him to stay out. Nodding at his aids, who had since decided to go with him, he put on his ODIN BattleArmor, grabbed his rifle, and the lot of them ran to the hangar and onto the dropships.

After all, if he wasn't willing to die for the resistance, if his words were just lies spoken through a frightened mouth attempting to act strong, then what kind of leader was he? No, he told himself, those bastards would discover why his name was Lionheart. He still had some fight left in him, and he was not about to die without letting it all go.

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

Snap went the pen as Jade read the press release coming out of Iaceo and Calnuxia. This whole situation was getting of hand. Out of all the enemies that they had faced during this conflict time was proving to be the most dangerous, they would have to act fast, and this was not going to help. “What the hell are they thinking?” she said out loud

“I have to say it was rather smart of them” said a familiar voice from the door “I wish that someone else that I know was being as tactful as they are”

Looking up from her desk Jade saw her father standing there waiting to come in. “Please come in dad, have a seat” she said realizing that she had forgot her manners “What can do for you?”

Her father took a seat “As I said, you could be handling the current situation better then you are” he was never one to mix words, he always said what he thought. “Calnuxia and Iaceo actions were intended to help you deal with the ‘Order’. Everyone knows that both countries only have a hand full of spacecraft, nowhere near the numbers needed to make a difference. They are trying to make the other members of the ‘Order’ realize what threat NiMbus is. And you should be doing the same, play this diplomatically, suspend military operation and try and convince the ‘Order’ that you are right.”

“They won’t listen to me” shot Jade “They are still believe the Emperor is still in control.”

Sitting back in the chair her father folded his arms “Do have any proof that he’s not. Cause if you did all you would take it to the Advisory council.”

“These people are to smart to make a mistake like that” answered Jade.

He got up from his seat and walked around the desk then took a seat on the desks edge. “Then recall our forces, when you have the proof then you can act. It would be much easier to have the ‘Orders’ support, then going against them.”

It was now Jade turn to stand, moving past her father she made her way to the window, and began to stare out. Night had come, and it had begun to snow. “I though you have all people would understand, there are those who learn from history, and those who repeat it. 25 years ago we failed to see the true threat that Latito Iaceo represented, and it took us nearly 20 year to fix that mistake. Again we find yourself at a cross road, on one side we do nothing hope that will work it self out, and on the other side is action, we can end it before it begins.”

“You can’t compare the two” interrupted her father. “Latito Iaceo was a single person, not an Empire. You are talking about knocking down a giant, and no one knows who going to replace him when you are done, and it scares people”

Jade never turned attention away from the window. “You just proved my point. We know what type of damage that single person could do, now imagine what damage NiMbus could do. Beside it is now out my hands, as we speak the fleet in enroute to Steel Butterfly and will be arriving shortly. They doubted my resolve to see this through and left me no choice but to act.”

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Jade Allenson
Commander Tappee intelligence
Lead Chair Tappee intelligence Tribunal
Daughter to Former Tappee President Smith Allenson

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Smith Alenson
Former President of Tappee
Father to Jade Allenson

Silence had came across the bridge, everyone was at their station doing their duty, the fleet that had been in orbit above Aesis had just entered hyperspace and was now making it’s way to their intended target of Steel Butterfly. Dodalla glanced over at the COM officer, with the Admiral signal she turned on an open channel to ship and their crews.

Dodalla rose as she addressed her troop. “Attention all hands, this Admiral Dodalla. As you are all undoubtedly aware of due the actions of the ‘Order of Serpahim’ we have put into a awkward position. We’ve been given a choice, move against the will of our closets allies, or to stand down. Too stand down would mean the all that we have accomplished; as well the sacrifices that our fallen comrades have made would have been for nothing. But more importantly we would have dishonoured the memories of those innocent people who’s lives were taken away at Tatania. People that we call friend, brother, sister, mother, or father.” She paused for a moment. “I stand her before not as your Admiral, not as solider, but as human being, one that will not allow herself stand by and allow the ones who have taken so MANY of our loved ones away from us go free and unpunished. We have been given the opportunity to bring this evil down in a single, and we will not lightly give up such an opportunity.”

“However, the enemy has proven time and time again that they will not simply give up, that they will not go down with out a fight. We all knew the risks with the job, but we are no longer just soldiers, we are now the voice for those that have none, and we arrive at our destination we will shout for vengeance as loud as we can, and the enemy will tremble in fear. I trust in all you, to the Honour of Combat.”

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Admiral Dodalla

It had been the most hectic three hours of Honor Harringtons entire life. Altough things had been in good order with the 5th Fleet being gathered here in Aesis Orbit and General Thomson's Troops being aboard their three modified freighters, it had taken Harrington and her staff to nearly exhaust themselves in getting all the forces ready for the attack to commence imminently and the plan of battle prepared in that short time. Now it was all ready, and Harrington sat on her Flag Commanders chair on the bridge of the Superdreadnaught HMS Fearless.
The tactical holo tank at the middle of the bridge showed the immidiate vicinity of Aesis, with the CSN 5th Fleet ships being marked with triangles, and allied Resistance ships marked with green triangles.

Harrington observed the Tappee ships, laying silently there in space waiting for the sign for the hell to commence. All the pieces of the game were now in position, one more move remained to be made.

It would be a hellish battle indeed. The 5th Fleet had immense firepower at its disposal and the Fleet Strike 3rd Army Corps carried by the modified freighters Illuminance, Bishop and Northern Star, contained over 50,000 men, with three accompanying Tactical Armor Battalions as well as ACS Brigades. Once they were in the ground, they would bring their own hell to the defenders, but getting them to the ground wouldnt be as simple as it sounded.

She abandoned those thoughts. She had gone thru the scenarios over and over again with her Flag Staff, it was pointless to go thru them again now when the plans were allready set in motion. Now all that remained was to speak her heart to the troops.

"Captain, i would like a Fleet wide comm channel." She told Captain Milos Caparan, occupying the Captains Chair on the middle of the bridge, with the holo tank five meters in front of him.

"Yes Admiral."

"Channel set up." The comms Lieutenant told her.

"Thank you Lieutenant."

Harrington cleared her thoughts and spoke with a calm but strong tenor, hoping to instill her faith on her people and their courage on them.

"Men and Women of the Clairmont Space Navy 5th Fleet. We are about to embark on a mission that will bring us face to face with the greatest space battle and accompanying planetary invasion in the entire history of our nation. No man or woman of the CSN has ever participated in anything like what is about to come, but there is allways a first time for everything, and this ladies and gentlemen is the first time for that. This is what you have been trained to do. Very soon, we shall embark on a joint attack with allied Resistance forces against the Capitol Planet of the Steel Butterfly Empire, Steel Butterfly itself. Our mission, is to ensure that the leaders of both the Empire, and NiMBUS corporation be captured. I do not need to tell you the importance of this operation ladies and gentlemen. If we are succesfull, the war will very likely be over and the Resistance will be able to form up a new Government to lead the Empire. But if we lose today, then we will lose it all. There is no turning back from the road we have embarked upon, not anymore. "

She held her speech for a moment, letting what she had told her people to sink in and continued.

"None of you knew this Operation would be coming this soon, and none of you know the reason why the execution of this Operation this soon became a necessity. You all have the right to know the facts. The Order of the Seraphim has decided that the Steel Butterfly civil war has gone on for too long. As such, forces from the Seraphim Military are mobilizing as we speak, their mission to come and stabilize the situation in the Orion Sector, by the force of arms. They will not be coming to our side ladies and gentlemen, their intent is to support the legal Government of the Empire, and effectively end the Resistance. But they are not here yet. If the Resistance can bring down Nemerov's Government before those forces arrive, then the Order will not begin to bring down the new Government to re-establish something that has been destroyed."

She waited for a few moments, pondering how her people were feeling, and the questions they were asking from each other at this moment.

"But if we wont succeed, then our only option is to retreat from the Orion Sector entirely, if we survive. This is what we have been fighting for for the last twelve months. This singular goal we have had is within our grasp at this moment. This is what our comrades have died for. Shall we allow it all to have been for nothing? For the deaths of our comrades to be in vain? Shall we allow Nemerov and the criminals of NiMBUS to get away from this, to avoid justice once again? We cannot, for if we back down now, that choice shall haunt us for the rest of our lives. The voices of our dead comrades screaming in our minds at our betrayal of them. We must do this ladies and gentlemen, it is our duty to fight to defend the weak, punish the wicked and destroy the kind of wretched scum as is the NiMBUS Corporation. We must do this and we must do this now. I have faith in each and every one of you, i trust in you to do your duty and watch for your comrades. And most of all, i am proud to be your Commander. May we make our Protector proud with our actions, and may those actions bring glory for Clairmont....Admiral Harrington, out."

The Comms Lieutenant shut off the link. Harrington observed the gazes of the bridge crew of the Fearless on her, their absolute trust in her glowing in their eyes. She radiated her own trust, and feelings back to them. And she felt proud, proud of their willingness to fight for a cause that some would have considered "someone elses business" and for people who none of them really had known twelve months ago. She nodded slightly to them all, and they nodded slightly back, and turned back to their Operating Posts.

http://www.10abc.homestead.com/files/csf_OADI-command.gif
In the past year, Cspalla's boarder with the Orion Sector had changed. It was inevitable: the civil war meant that what was once the weakest boarder of the Grand Dominion, shared with its greatest ally, had to be secured, indeed more than any other. Now potential enemies were past that invisible line in the void.

As a result, the Orion Area Defense Initiative had been enacted. Sensor arrays, listening posts, and battle-stations now litter the border. Fighter squadrons, based out of various newly built stations, dart to and fro, waiting for any threat. Frigates and cruisers, once assigned to probe deep space, now patrol the unseen wall. And all of it is controlled from one station, itself only just inside the boarder, and part of the vast network. This is known as OADI Command.

Inside that station, among other things, data is gathered from the vast array of sensors and monitored. Ensign Patrick Anderson, fresh out of the Cspallan Space Force's academy, was assigned to that room, at one of the many monitoring stations And he was growing concerned.

"More? Jesus. Sir, I think we need to report this."

Lieutenant Steven Richards, seated at a monitoring station next to his, concurred. "Admiral! Admiral Erickson, sir! You better take a look at this."

Rear Admiral Raymond Erickson, commander of the OADI and this watch in the monitoring room, came over. "OK, boys," he said, "What are we looking at?"

Richards spoke up first. "Well, sir, it was Ensign Anderson here that noticed it first. He should tell you."

"All right, then. Let's have it, ensign.

The young man gulped. "Sir, our long range sensors are showing an unusual amount of fleet movement within the sector. Of course, it may just be routine fleet movements, but, well…"

"It may not be, too. Good eye, ensign. Looks like your really living up to that name."

The ensign almost blushed. All his life he had heard the stories of the brave Andersons in the Cspallan Armed Forces, going back generations. He didn't mind being associated with them one bit. "Th…Thank you, sir."

Erickson smiled at the young boy's nervous attitude, patted him on the back, and set to work. "Everyone! Listen up. We got a lot of fleet movement going on, could be serious. I want answers on this, people. Lets start focusing sensors and get a dest-est on this." Dest-est was a phrase that had picked up in the OADI, meaning destination estimation. It was standard procedure whenever they saw suspicious movement.

The room went into a flurry of motion. Officers and NCOs dashed back and forth, exchanging data. Soon, however, a senior officer, Commander Eric Mason, approached the admiral, looking quite pale. "Sir," he said, "The dest-est is ready. Its fairly approximate, but…"

"I know how limited we are from this kind of range, Eric. Just put it up."

"Aye sir." He worked a few commands on the room's large hologram projector, and a 3D map of the Orion Sector sprang to life. A few dots appeared, minuscule on the huge projection, but then wedges shot out from each one, showing their probable course. The computer then placed a red circle around the zone where those courses converged. There was one major planet in that zone.

"Jesus Christ," Erickson whispered, "That's…"

"Aye sir. The capital. Unless our projections are way off, the resistance is heading for Steel Butterfly."

"People, we need more data. Get the entire network checking this. And commutations: get me the command center back on Cspalla, real time."

—later—
"Sir, it isn't a sure thing yet, but it looks like a push on the capital." High General Tinmar Ko'lan, Commander of the Cspallan Armed Forces, finished for the Grand Overlord. Robert Fyre leaned back and thought.

"Damn. The Order forces will never make it on time. Keep watching it, and have my secretary downstairs get the Government Council convened in half an hour. Alert me immediately if an attack actually starts."

"Yes sir!"

CSF liason Admiral Lance von Beur tossed the progress report aside with a sigh of disgust. Nearly 42 hours into mobilization and the forces were not even half ready yet. Rapid response force my ass. Had it been the Sketchian fleets, we would have been ready for full mobilization within 12 hours. The comment was not quite deserved however; failing to take into account the fact that the majority of the space forces had been spread across many sectors engaging in various military exercises. There was also the fact that certain forces tasked to the CSF were taking their time, "dragging their feet" as it were, due to national considerations. A polite way to say that they were refusing to mobilize because their government told them not to.

Rubbing his temples, Admiral von Beur made his decision. It was a mistake to call for the mobilization of the entire CSF to begin with. Unfortunately, heads of state rarely take the time to understand military organization before taking command. The CSF, being a multi-national task force, is composed of two parts - the Joint Interplanetary Legion (JIL) and the Combined Resources Corps (CRC). The JIL is an exclusively Order commanded structure - with all forces declaring allegiance to the Order first and nationality second. The CRC on the other hand were more of troops "on loan" from each Order member - more often than not, subject to availability and the wiles of the state.

At the current rate, the JIL will be fully ready for deployment within the next 10 hours, whereas the CRC would require another 36 hours, at the minimum. Damn partisan politics. You simply can't run a military organization with more than one allegiance, ranted von Beur silently. Still sighing, he drafted a letter of recommendation to the High Imperator of the CSF. Although an appointed position, and most likely affected by politics instead of raw talent, the High Imperator still technically far outranked the Admiral; a fact that hardly escaped von Beur dispite its inherent unpleasantness. It just meant that he had to politely "request" and "recommend" instead of demand and order.

==========================================================

L4 GAMMA 77 RED

To: CSF High Command, High Imperator
From: CSF Liason, Sketch, Admiral Lance von Beur
Subj: CSF mobilization
Msg:

Sir,
At the behest of Lady Jagara, I recommend that the JIL mobilization be given pirority over the CRC. The Order must make its presence known within the Orion sector, and more importantly, within the space surrounding the capital planet of Steel Butterfly. The situation is quickly deteriorating, we must act with all due hast.
Very Respectfully,
Admiral Lance von Beur,
CSF Liason, Sketch

L4 GAMMA 75 RED

To: CSF Liason, Sketch, Admiral Lance von Beur
From: CSF Command, xxxx, High Imperator xxx
Subj: re: CSF mobilization
Msg:

You may inform Lady Jagara that the Joint Interplanetary Legion has been given priority, but that the Combined Resources Corps must also be mobilized to give the Order the power to effect an appropriate response. In particular, the JIL's ability to project ground force over such vast distances will be quite limited for this mission in the near term without CRC faster-than-light transport assets.

This does not mean the Order will be powerless without the CRC, but it will reduce the number of options at our disposal to perhaps two War Legions, and those weapons available to the JIL space fleet itself; the use of either of these options is of great political concern and must be addressed at the Seraphim Advisory Council for the most desirable of repsonses.


Mercury Orbit

Forces once aligned towards the bloodless battles of wargames now looked ahead to bloody battles of warfare in the current age. Warfare which spoke of death in the vast reaches of space, or on some frontier many light-years from the homes of the young men who operated machinery, slept in the nervously active bunks and provided life to the immense warships of the Order of the Seraphim.

Executor Cullens had a reversal of role; instead of leading the Mars into simulated battle, he would lead a much larger force into a real one. What's more, it would take place nowhere near Mercury, or Sol for that matter, but in the Orion Sector, to support the Steel Butterfly Imperial loyalists against multiple factions. It sounded to him like a recipe for disaster - the Steel Butterfly situation had been ongoing for as long as he could remember, and he doubted the Order was right to step in.

But what did his voice count? Ultimately, it was the High Imperator who decided the actions of the fleets, not a lowly Executor. His opinion was just that - opinion. There were probably factors he did not, could not, know. So he was content, and unafraid, of his duties in that far world.

There was just one problem. CSF Command had not yet determined the optimal operational plan, and so Cullens did not even know to which planet his forces would jump to.

He sipped his coffee as the organic clockwork of the ship's operations hummed around him. Other ships were arriving too; more than had been allocated for the Mercury wargames. A lot more. Perhaps, most of the JIL.

He wondered how long it would be until departing Sol. He wondered if he would ever return.

The Orion Sector. So far from Earth and, consequently, far beyond anything Vrak could do militarily. Vrak had no FTL assets. Indeed, its space fleet consists of dozens of flying tin cans owned by a private Vrakian corporation – but they got the job done hauling freight. The only influence Vrak had would be supplying industrial and economic might to the Order military machine and by exerting diplomatic pull in the upcoming Advisory Council.

The 1st Projection fleet was recalled from Tappee, since and CSF military exercises were now put on hold. Which was fine since there were other concerns that the military brass was worried about.

The Government Council members, all pulled from their day to day duties for this emergency meetings, sat in their respective chairs in the meeting chamber. General Ko'lan, in his role as Chief Military Officer, addressed the council, informing them of the situation. "With all that conflict nearby," he said, "I have the Seventh and Eighth Fleets mobilizing on the boarder. They were there on patrol anyway. Also, Fleet Admiral Petrovich wants orders. The wargames are called off, at least for now, and he wants to know if he should take his fleet to from up with the Order's CRC or report back."

Melissa Fyre, Robert's wife and Cspalla's Chief Diplomatic Officer, had an answer for that. "We should have him form up. With Tappee and Clairmont acting against Steel Butterfly and Order wishes, we have to support the CRC totally."

"Those ships are the best in the Space Force. If fighting starts spilling over to Cspalla we should have them here. We can send the Ninth Fleet. It can be ready in a day anyway." Ko'lan said this in his typical, somewhat arrogant tone.

"Oh please. We aren’t going to be attacked."

"You don’t know that!"

"Stop being such a paranoid. Cspalla is a fortress, and we have plenty of ships still here."

"This ends, now!" Robert Fyre was unusually quick to yell. "We don’t have tome to feud over petty bullshit like this!" The Council gazed on in shock. Robert almost never got this angry. "Since this goddamned civil war started, this Council has done nothing but feud and argue over every detail of it. Steel Butterfly was torn apart, and if they can, so can Cspalla! What does it say for our hope against that if Cspalla's leaders can't even agree on anything!"

Now the chamber contained several actually gaping mouths. No one had ever seen the Grand Overlord explode like that with so little provocation. "High General Ko'lan, you will order Admiral Petrovich to have his force return to the Grand Dominion and assemble along the boarder with Steel Butterfly. In addition, you will order the commander of the Ninth Fleet to contact the CRC command as to where his fleet is wanted with the CRC. Being this close to the Orion Sector they may want to form up with us closer to the target. Now, I called this meeting to talk about the coming attack on Steel Butterfly. What do we do?"

"We have to warn them! The fleet movements may not be detectable from their angle." Ko'lan was trying to sound calm, and failing.

"No! That could cause an incident. We can’t have that, not now." Melissa sounded much like the General.

"Fine, but let's at least warn the Order. Is that alright?"

"I suppose so, yes."

"Good," said Robert, "I'll send the message myself. What about responding to the attack?"

"We can't move until the planet is under attack. Too dicey." Melissa said this forcing herself to sound reasonable.

"Fine, but after that the Seventh and Eighth move." Ko'lan was defiant about this.

"I agree," said Robert, "we won’t leave them out to dry."

-Later-

Robert Fyre had drafted his message, and transmitted it.

L5 Gamma 80 RED

To: CSF High Command, High Imperator
From: Grand Overlord Robert Fyre, Cspalla
Subject: Urgent situation in the Orion Sector

I feel I must dispense with formalities. Cspallan monitoring systems have detected a large fleet movement of resistance ships towards the capital world of Steel Butterfly. Our intelligence says that Order member nations have assets among this attack force. I'm passing this information along to you in hopes you can act with due haste.

Sincerely,
Robert Fyre,
Grand Overlord of the Grand Dominion of Cspalla

The following message was sent by Rear Admiral Steven Patterson, commander of the Cspallan Space Force's Ninth Fleet.

L3 Gamma 25 ORANGE

To: CRC Command Structure
From: Rear Admiral Steven Patterson, Commanding Officer, Cspallan Space Force Ninth Fleet
Subject: CRC Mobilization

Sirs:

I have been instructed by my superiors to report to you for the ordered mobilization. Because of our proximity to the Orion Sector, I wish to confirm where my Fleet should report for duty.

Respectfully,
Rear Admiral Steven Patterson,
CO, Cspallan Ninth Fleet

Alexei's sheets were soaked as he blinked in the darkness. This one felt farther away, less real. He couldn't quite remember...perhaps it wasn't as important.

He walked past Rei sleeping soundly, Alexei's optical implant having no problem seeing in the pitch black of the room. Night vision was one of many options his new eye had. If it hadn't been for what it reminded him of, his ultimate moment of weakness, he may have learned to even enjoy it. Sitting down in the cockpit, he was careful not to touch the controls.

"Hello, Commander..." A familiar voice said from behind. Alexei turned to see the blinking of the lights reflecting off the man's dark glasses and slick, black hair.

Alexei spun his chair around slowly as he felt his mood sour. "What the fuck do you...?" He said, rolling his eyes, before getting cut off.

"Now that's no way to treat a guest..." The man interrupted. Alexei stared at the internal sensors that were out of viewing range of the man before him. There was no denying it, there were three humanoid lifeforms in Rei's ship. One of them was an Aural, two of them were...

"What are you?" Alexei asked once again. He needed an answer, for it would tell him so much more than what was intended.

"I am what I'm not, Alexei...same as you...and yet we are not the same..."

"Bullshit," Alexei replied. "This here..."

"We're similar, but not the same...that sensor is not equipped..."

"How are we similar?"

"You will find..."

The man choked as the blade pushed its way through his neck. His sunglasses fell to the floor as his eyes rolled back in his head.

Alexei spun around in his chair as Rei came darting out from the bedroom.

"What happened here?" the naked Aural asked. Alexei chuckled and looked away.

"I didn't think I touched anything," Alexei replied. "Do you always sleep in the nude?"

"The sheets cover me themselves," Rei said, looking around. "There was a distortion here..."

"The scanners haven't picked anything up," Alexei replied, looking over the past few hours.

"No..." Rei mused, staring out to the stars. "I felt it..."

"What kind of distortion?"

"...time..." Rei replied. "Something happened...these minutes...we already lived them..."

"You're kidding me..."

"Oh no he's right," a voice said over the sound system. Rei and Alexei looked at each other, no one had turned it on, yet one of them recognized the voice. "Is that how you two always treat strangers?"

"Excuse me?" Rei asked, but the voice seemed to ignore him...as if he wasn't there.

"To answer your question, Alexei, you are what you aren't...in a way of course...until next time..."

Rei turned to Alexei once the sound system had disengaged. "What did you ask him?"

"I...don't remember this time...but Rei..."

"Yeah?"

"He also said that I'm not an Aural..."

"We've already established..."

"But that means I am...in a way of course..."

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p641537.jpg
Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p651892.png
Man in Glasses

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p651717.png
Rei Warheit

"Long-range fire is picking up," Lt. Cmdr. Trinneer reported to Captain McNeil as the Outlander readied itself for battle.

"Keep her steady, Ensign," the captain ordered to Ensign Wilson as she adjusted the setting. "We're to remain here until the shield is broken..."

"I'll be on standby..." Captain Leon Williams replied. "Two thirds of my men will be ready at all times, each with three hour intervals. Six in, three out..."

"Six hours straight strapped in?" Trinneer asked, raising an eyebrow. "Just...waiting?"

"We're Marines, Lieutenant Commander," Williams replied, grinning slyly. "Not Fleet..."

"We're just as prepared," Trinneer shot back, forgetting rank. Williams didn't seem to care, however.

"For what, Commander?" Leon asked before leaving for his six-hour shift. "Us...we're prepared for war..."

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p250.jpg
Captain Thomas McNeill
CO of the Outlander

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p639294.jpg
Lt. Commander Charles Trinneer
XO of the Outlander

http://67.18.37.14/129/44/upload/p341.jpg
Captain Leon Williams
Leader of the 2nd Marines

“Admiral” said a voice from somewhere in the command centre “We are coming up on our objective beacon, we are now just waiting for your order Ma’am”

Silence swept over the room as Dodalla sat back in her chair. On her command the fleet would drop out of hyperspace and into the greatest battle that Tappee forces have ever partaken in, the casualty estimates for the battle was project to be in the millions, and the mission it self had a low success probability. However, this there last and only chance of winning this conflict.

“It is said that fortune favours the bold” Said Dodalla out loud, she glance over at the TAC officer. “Have the fleet drop out of Hyperspace, and proceed with their objective as planned”

“Yes ma’am” quickly answered the TAC officer.

The barrier between the realm of hyperspace and n-space broke as the 5th Fleet dropped out of the Alpha Band of hyperspace, and translated back to the inky blackness of n-space. The three-hundred kilometer disks of their warsawski sails, circular disks of gravitic energy perpendicular to the ship using them, glowed brightly and crackled blue lightning as they bled away the bleed-off energy transferred to them by the ships dropping back to n-space.

The screening elements of the 5th Fleet came in first. Destroyers, Light Cruisers and Heavy Cruisers, all arrayed into a formation to form a protective shell for the Capital Ships that followed.

Only seconds after the lighter elements of the 5th Fleet had completed their transfer, the Capitol Elements of the fleet dropped back to n-space on their pre-planned formation. The Superdreadnaughts and Dreadnaughts formed up the main concentration of firepower in the formation, with the LAC-Carriers and Strike Fighter carriers forming the core of the formation, protected by every other ships' point-defense and electronic warfare fields.

As the ships completed their transit, their warsawski sails configured back to the planar fields of gravitic stress of an Impeller Drive.

The bridge of the HMS Fearless was a hive of activity as the fleet reported its readiness. Harrington glanced at the large tactical holo-tank, representing the area of interest. Blue icons were blinking to existance some few million kilometers away from the 5th Fleet as the Tappee Fleet dropped back to n-space as well.

Harrington nodded in satisfaction as the beginnings of the operation went as had been planned. The next phase was good to go.

"Commence Strike Craft deployment and execute the next phase." Harrington ordered the Fleet thru her communications channel.

The bellies of the Strike Fighter carriers began to discorge Wolfhound- and Liberator-class Strike Fighters into space. At the same time, the two LAC-Carriers of the 5th Fleet commenced launch operations. The massive hatches in their flanks opened, and began to discorge the 10,000 ton bulks of Valkyrie Light Assault Crafts.

As the fighters and LAC's took up their preplanned positions, the Fleet changed its heading and began to accelerate towards their target area.

"Pid ruhacdmo, fro cruimt fa ramb dras?"

"Palyica y ceta sicd pa lrucah," the leader quickly replied. "Fa lyhhud ced eh dra crytufc frema dra funmt ynuiht ic ec lummybcehk..."

"Drah fryd tu fa tu?"

"Tyja Pejahc...ra cbaygc uin myhkiyka..."

"Y risyh? Bah..."

"Y knayd syh...fundro uv yho Wypnyg..."

"Pid cdemm..."

"Hu. Fa femm yccecd drec napammeuh. Luhdyld dras yd uhla. Damm dras Luhcim Rkorlan Vhawen haatc du cbayg du Tyja Pejahc...inkahdmo."

"Oac, s'munt."

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p97.jpg
Consul Rkorlan Vhawen
Former Governor of XIII

If only space had ears, it could hear the roar of war. If planets only had hands, they could stop this from ever happening. If men simply used their hearts, they would have never allowed war to begin. However, why would one want to save a life if they had a chance to take it? Mankind's obsession with death had not begun here, and it would not finish here, but regardless of these facts it was omnipresent. Space shielded its ears from the sound, planets covered their eyes with their hands, and men had by now forgotten the use of hearts, instead they simply aimed to shatter other's. That would, of course, lead to victory...

It was now their turn to suffer, Eric thought to himself as he heard the first alarm go off. That meant that the Imperial defenses had been broken, and the Rebellion was now pressing on towards the planetary shield. It had been thirteen hours since the battle started, and the Resistance was moving foward at record time. He shook the thought of simplicity off, as he knew the moment they broke the shield, all hell would break lose as well. That was where they would come in, the second wave as Captain Williams called it. Their objective was not merely to waste the enemy's ammunition as the first wave's was, but it was equally as grave. No one said it, but they all knew it from the academy. They were to press on as far as they could until they all died, as each wave after them would as well. Eventually they would either succeed or be outlasted.

Eric looked around the dropship, which was docked in the Outlander. Dropships were such easy targets, he mused, wondering if they would even reach the ground. Shaking the thought off, he closed his eyes. It would be less than an hour now...

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p641538.jpg
Commander Eric Vinzer
XO of the 2nd Marines

"We'll be there soon," Lieutenant Joseph Frost said, taking a seat at the tactical controls.

"Shouldn't you address me as sir?" Lieutenant Commander Mark Andrews asked, grinning while taking the helm.

"Both of you should be worshipping the ground I walk on," Dave Bivens replied, letting out an uneasy laugh. He wasn't sure if they should be joking at a time like this, but he wasn't going to ruin the mood.

"Well," Frost said, looking down at the controls. "I'd strap yourself in. Knowing Andy here we'll be in for a bumpy one."

"Is he new at this?" Bivens asked. Mark chuckled.

"Quite the opposite," Frost replied. "One of the best I've seen. He...likes to take chances though..."

"Ah," Bivens said, buckling his restraint. "I hadn't known we were going into battle..."

"I didn't either," Mark replied, grumbling. "But this damn thing is too old, meaning, too slow....sir. If the Imperials put some umph in their engines, they might be winning this war."

"Typical Fleet," Joseph said, shaking his head but smiling. "Only understands one thing...flying..."

Bivens tried to get comfortable in the military seat but was failing miserably. He closed his eyes, hoping that these two were as good as they thought they were.

http://67.18.37.14/129/44/upload/p357.jpg
Dave Bivens
President/CEO of Bivens Co.

http://67.18.37.14/129/44/upload/p360.jpg
Lieutenant Joseph Frost
Vehicle Specialist/Sniper,
1st Marines

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p639933.png
Lt. Commander Mark Andrews
"Raptor Zero"
15th Fighter Squadron

There was a bright flash of light followed by the ground shuddering as the FA took another direct hit.

“Report” Called one of the Command Staff

“Shields at 67% and holding.

Despite the pounding that the FA was now receiving Dodalla wasn’t worried, the ship had already taken a beating and was still holding strong. What did concern her was the planetary shield surrounding the planet, until they could punch a hold and deploy ground forces all this would be for nothing.

However, he worries soon came to end as one of the TAC officer called out “Ma’am we’ve made a same hole of the planets shield. The Rebel forces are already moving force in”

For a brief moment she was felt excited, for the first time she felt as if they might as well have a chance. “How big is the hole”

“A few hundred square kilometres” quickly answered the TAC officer

“Very well” responded Dodalla “move us into position and deploy the 1st through 7th Dropsuit squadrons, once they have established a foot proceed with the Wave deployment” Her plan was simple the first few waves of the deployment would be Dropsuits not Dropships. A dropsuit could only carry a single solider to the planet, but were much smaller the dropships, which gave them a higher chance of actually make all the way to the surface. Only problem was that they could not land a large amount of force, the plan was to first secure a landing area before sending in the main force.

Dodalla watched through the HOLO display as the dropsuit began their decent toward the surface. Lighting up there thrusters they quickly slowed their decent so not to crash into the planet. Some where destroyed by the gun batteries below while other managed to survive the onslaught.

http://lightwave.sns.hu/cikkek/irasok/rsst/dropsuit30x25.jpg

Yet again the ground shuddered, but this time there was no flash of light as a precursor.

“We’ve got a hull breach in sectors 6 through 9, and 23 through 26” yelled someone.

Flipping on the COM switch Dodalla quickly addressed the crew “Attention all hands intruder alert, I repeat intruder alert.” The light dimmed, and red strobe lights and alarm went off. She glanced over at her security officer. “seal the doors on all affect section send security teams. Ensign Wetherspoon I need too…” However, Dodalla turned to find the seat that would be normal filled by the Ensign now empty.

For a moment Dodalla stood there speechless, she could have swore that the Ensign was there just but a moment ago. More importantly if she had now abandoned her post, which put lives one the line. “Someone filled that seat!” yelled Dodalla in a fit of anger. After all this was done she would find Wetherspoon and deal with her personally, but for the moment there was more important things to deal with.

Honor Harrington watched sickeningly as two of the destroyers on the left flank of the fleet formation exploded. The destroyer and light cruiser screen around the main combatants of the 5th Fleet had been in the worst position of all. They were the weakest targets, and the easiest to hit in their position at the edges of the formation.

But without them, the Imperial fighters would be upon the core of the fleet. Every fighter that approached the screen was promptly annihilated by co-ordinated fire from the point-defense batteries of over thirty ships. After a while, the Imperials had given up on trying to get thru and instead let their big combatants take apart the point-defense screen.

But she was sending out death in its hundreds against the Imperials for every volley they fired. The ships of the wall at the core of the fleet were pumping out double broadsides of missiles, each broadside volley targeted at an Imperial capital ship. Every fifteen seconds, hundreds of missiles erupted from the launchers of the fleet as they spat thermo-nuclear warheads at the defending Imperial ships. Those that got within energy range fell victim to the combined fire from the energy batteries of Battlecruisers, Heavy Cruisers and Superdreadnaughts.

They were hacking their way towards Steel Butterfly. At their present acceleration and velocity of three thousand kps, and acceleration of 350 G's, they would reach geo-synchronous orbit of Steel Butterfly in another twenty minutes. The Tappee fleet had been faster however, and Honor noted that they had allready commenced planetfall operations. Well, this wasnt a race, and she most certainly held no envy for those who had to drop down to the surface of Steel Butterfly in the first wave of the entire attack, thru all the defenses the planet had.

The bridge of the HMS Fearless lurched as two energy beams from an Imperial capital ship converged against its thick hide, burning thru the sidewall and couging at the thick armor protecting the beating heart of the massive superdreadnaught.

A damage report followed within seconds from the hit.
"Launchers 3 and 9 are gone. Graser 7 is gone as well. Secondary starboard targeting array is offline." The officer reported with an ashen face.

It was hardly critical damage, but the loss of those weapons once again dropped the amount of death the Fearless could dish out, and in such a target rich enviroment, that was not a good thing. She observed as her gunners paid back to those who had wounded their ship. Graser beams erupted from the broadside of the Fearless and hammered against the shield of the Imperial ship that had fired on them, its shields burned brightly as the Grasers poured their massive firepower on them.


Outside the fleet formation, the fighters of the 5th Fleet and those of the Imperials were dog-fighting savagely. The Clairmontian Liberator and Wolfhound Strike Fighters now numbered in over five hundred, but even that seemed too little against what the Rebellion faced here. Nuclear tipped dog-fighting missiles streaked out from the Clairmontian fighters, igniting in flashes brighter than the sun when finding their targets. Grav cannons fired streams of hyper-velocity slugs moving at a good fraction of the speed of light, at their Imperial opponents.
Imperial fighters stabbed back with energy beams slashing out from their weapons, cutting and stabbing the Clairmontian fighters.

"Delta-6, Delta-6! Bogey on your six, break break!!" Squadron leader Alice McKay screamed to her comms. But her warning was too late, and the Wolfhound Strike Fighter she had tried to warn, was ripped to pieces by the energy beams from the pursuing Imperial fighter, one beam ripping thru the fuel tanks, igniting them and blowing up the fighter in a fireball as its internal oxygen supply was burned by the detonating fuel.

Alice snarled viciously and brought her Wolfhound around, hauling its nose up and bringing the killer of Delta-6 to her sights. The Imperial however was quick, expertly getting away from Alice's firing arc and coming around to get to her six-o-clock.

She pushed her throttle to full power, bringing the gravitic drive field to maximum burn and accelerated away from the Imperial fighter for two seconds. As she had gained some range, she pulled the stick hard, her fighter coming about in a snap 180 degree turn, brining the Imperial fighter directly to her sights as it had gotten to her six.

"This is for Robert you piece of shit!" she screamed, pressing the firing stud, simultaneously firing her spinal mounted lasers and sending a single nuclear missile right at the head of the Imperial fighter. The lasers got there first, clawing into the fighters hull but failing to cause critical damage. But any sense of relief the Imperial pilot might have held disappeared in two seconds as the missile bore to ten meter distance from the fighter, and exploded. The 100 kiloton nuclear warhead detonated in a bright flash, and the Imperial fighter was shredded, and vaporized by its unleashed power.

Alice felt no exultation from the destruction of her enemy, and brought her Strike Fighter around towards the epicenter of the battle, seeking for new targets.

The dropship shook as the latch holding it to the Outlander's shuttle bay released. Lieutenant Katrina Brady steadied the ship as the Marines inside prepared themselves for what was to come.

"How much did the first wave get accomplished, sir?" Eric asked Captain Williams.

"Not sure," Leon replied, staring off at nothing in particular. "But I wouldn't count on much..."

Suddenly, an explosion rocked the ship...not the dropship, but instead the Outlander. The dropship skidded across the shuttlebay, but Kat acted fast and steered it away from the bay wall. Other pilots weren't as lucky, as one dropship smashed into another, igniting and exploding in front of the bay doors.

The deployment stalled. Half the wave was already headed to the surface. Half a wave was worthless. Captain Leon Williams, however, instintively knew what to do.

"Push through it, Lieutenant!" he ordered Lt. Brady. Kat gave the Captain an odd look, but Leon had already made up his mind. "One way or another, we're getting down there."

The Marines braced for impact, but the shock of smashing through two burning dropships still caught them, and their ship, off guard.

"Captain, we're losing fuel quickly!" Lt. Brady reported, and Leon shook his head. Had he just insured all of their deaths? Checking his radar, he saw that they had cleared the way for the other trapped dropships, which were flying out of the Outlander quite rapidly now. "I can't control our course! I can't control the ship!"

"STAY CALM, LIEUTENANT!" Eric ordered, his heart racing. All they needed to do was land. It didn't matter where anymore. "GET THIS THING ON THE GROUND...I DON'T GIVE A FUCK HOW!"

Turbulance quickly picked up yet left almost as fast, telling the Marines not only that they had passed through the atmosphere, but also that they were travelling way to fast to make a safe landing.

"We're slowing down," Katrina reported. "But it's not fast enough, sir. I'm attempting to adjust the course so that we can fly around the planet. Perhaps I could land this ship like a plane."

"Is it our only option?" Leon asked, knowing very well the answer.

"Yes, sir, it is..."

"...so be it..." he replied, checking his restraints to make sure they were in place. They were, so he unlatched them, along with the other Marines. They had done this in training, yet that seemed so long ago now. "Lieutenant, you know how this works, don't you?"

"We're supposed to bail out, correct, sir?" Katrina responded.

"Don't wait too long...and when you do...find someplace safe and stay there. The surv...we will be along to get you shortly," Leon said.

"Buckle up boys," Eric ordered, latching his helmet on. The back hatch of the dropship opened, revealing the ground which was racing by beneath them and the clouds. "We go together...on three..."

"One..."

"Two..."

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Captain Leon Williams
Leader of the 2nd Marines

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Commander Eric Vinzer
XO of the 2nd Marines

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Lieutenant Katrina Brady
"Raptor 1"
15th Fighter Squadron

"Three!" screamed Lt. Commander Charles Trinneer. "I need three good men!"

The bridge of the Outlander was ablaze with flames, and the Lt.Cmdr. and three soldiers were rapidly fighting to put them out.

Captain Thomas McNeill got to his feet by way of a pushup. He quickly touched his forehead above his eyebrow as the blood ran down into his eye. The bastard liquid burned, and the captain cursed his eye before tearing his sleeve and tying it around it head like a bandana. That would have to do for now.

"I need a status report, damnit!" the captain screamed, but everyone was doing other things. Pushing his way to the console, he saw the casualties coming in, as well as the hull breaching and fires spreading across all of the decks. However, the dropships had gotten out, save for a few unlucky ones who fell after the initial blast. "Find whoever fired at us and blast their ass!" he ordered at the top of his lungs.

"Weapons aren't responding," the tactical officer replied. "None of them...our controls are shot..."

"Helm's still online," Ensign Allison Wilson reported. "The Imperials are targeting our engines. If the core blows..."

"I know very well what happens if the core blows, Ensign," Captain McNeill snapped. He wasn't going to let this end. Not here, not like this. "Aim this ship towards the planet. I'll be damned if I let her die without doing some damage!"

"You want us to crash?" Ensign Wilson asked, shocked.

"Exactly," Captain McNeill replied. "Now get to the escape pods. Don't give them the satisfaction of you dying!"

The soldiers quickly scrambled onto the pods, and Captain McNeill could already see some going out into space, while others headed towards the planet. Ensign Wilson imputted the coordinates of the planet, and then scurried off to a pod of her own.

"It's unfair," Captain McNeill told Lt.Cmdr. Trinneer. "That she has to die like this."

"It would be more unfair for her to take you down with her..." The Outlander's XO replied.

"As I said," Captain McNeill stated, motioning his second in command to the doors of the bridge as Ensign Wilson's pod drifted off to the planet. "I won't let them have the satisfaction of me dying. I'm not afraid to die, quite honestly...but I'll be damned if I die in vain...just like this ship..."

The Outlander, devoid of its escape pods and living crew, blasted through the energy shield and cut through the city like a torpedo. Captain McNeill smiled at the enormous crater and destruction the crash left, for he too hoped to have such an impact on those damn Imperials.

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Captain Thomas McNeill
CO of the Outlander

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Lt. Commander Charles Trinneer
XO of the Outlander

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Ensign Allison Wilson
Helmsman of the Outlander

"Don't even tell me you plan on just flying down to the planet and landing..." Alexei said, giving Rei a strange look.

"They won't be able to detect this cloak," Rei replied, quite confident of himself.

"Then why wouldn't you give it to the Resistance?" Alexei asked. "Their cloaks could have used the upgrade!"

"Cloaked or not," Rei responded. "It's hard to hide a fleet."

It was a crazy, perhaps even stupid plan, yet to Alexei's astonishment, they did just as Rei said they would. The shuttle landed in one of the many slum-only sections of the planet, far from the battle front, completely undetected by radar and eyes alike.

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Alexei grabbed both a Phased Assault Rifle (PHAR) and a Blaster Shotgun and handed one out for Rei, who simply picked up his long sword and shook his head. Alexei shrugged, made a comment on Rei's sanity, and strapped the shotgun to his back, holding the PHAR in his hands.

"I guess we're parting ways now," Rei said, turning away from Alexei. He turned and grinned, a twinkle in his eye. "You won't be scared without me, will you?"

Alexei cocked the PHAR one handed and smiled back. "I wouldn't worry about me..."

"I hope you find what you're looking for, Alexei," Rei said as he walked away.

"You as well," Alexei replied, but Alexei hadn't told Rei that they were looking for the same thing...and unlike Rei...Alexei knew exactly where Dr. Ackerman was...or at least where he should be.

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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Rei Warheit

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"LETS GO, GO, GO!" Leon screamed through the comm link to his men as they ran through the slums of the capital. They had to find her fast, before the Imperials did.

The crash site was gruesome, but if they were lucky, she would not be a part of it...and she wasn't. Finding her under some rubble, she was stunned, but not hurt.

The second Marines decided to press on towards the battlefield, unknowing that they were half way around the planet from where it was taking place.

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Captain Leon Williams
Leader of the 2nd Marines

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Lieutenant Katrina Brady
"Raptor 1"
15th Fighter Squadron

"30 seconds till reversion!" A young ensign on the bridge of the CSF Scarlet Breeze, command ship for the Cspallan Task Force consisting of the Seventh and Eighth Fleets, yelled this over the din of a ship preparing for battle.

About time, thought Vice Admiral Lisa Anderson, CO of the Seventh Fleet and the task force. The departure of the force had been ridiculously delayed, but now they were on the way to Steel Butterfly to defend their allies.

The force disengaged their spatial inversion drives at the appointed time, seeming to ride into the system on streaks of white. Their orders were clear: defend the planet, but don’t attack Order forces. That would be a political mess Cspalla wasn't ready for, and they were willing to bet that Clairmont and Tappee would feel the same way.

"Put me on a broadband comm," commanded Lisa to the communications officer. He did so.

"This is Vice Admiral Lisa Anderson of the Cspallan Space Force to the Imperial commanders. We are here to help, but our orders only allow us to attack Resistance Forces." She hesitated slightly. Broadcasting that could be a bad thing, but she wanted Tappee and Clairmont to know it anyway. She also was somewhat uneasy about what she had to say next. "I herby request orders. How may we help?"

The bridge turned to Admiral Dodalla, as the moment that they all fear had come. On board the FA things had gone from bad to worse, enemy force were still onboard, and now they may be force to fight on of their allies.

Standing from her chair she took a step towards the HOLO display. “prepare to broadcast on a all channels” she paused for a moment waiting for her order to be carried out, when she was sure that it was she continued “Attention Vice Admiral Anderson, this Fleet Admiral Dodalla of Tappee. You can have my upmost assurances that my fleet will not open fire on your force. However, they will respond with deadly force if they themselves are engaged.” She motioned for the COM officer to terminate the connection.

Turning on her heel she sat back down “TAC order all ship that are not deploying ground force to position themselves between the Rebel and Cspalla’s force.” Letting out a sigh she wondered if this would be the best plan “I want them to act as shield and buy the Rebels as much time as we can”

“What if Cspalla’s force engage our forces” asked on of the TAC officer.

“I hear the Hell is real nice this time of year” sarcastically answered Dodalla. The alarm going remined her of the present situation onboard the FA “Why haven’t those intruders been dealt with”

In act of desperation Emily rounded a corner only to find that like so many other had been closed. When the Imperial forces had breached the FA, all the blast doors in the affected section had been closed, with all disregard for any soul that may have been in it way. The blood stains and dismembered torso served as a reminder that she her self been unluckily caught in one of the affected sectors, and if she didn’t find her way to safety then she her self might be like the body to lay before her.

As she turned she found herself staring to the barrel of an Imperial Pulse rifle. For a moment she lost her breath at the sight that stood infront of her. Scare from either this battle or previous battle the Imperial ODIN served as an impenetrable fortress to any thing that she could unleash. Closing her eye’s she prepare herself for her fate.

Emily jumped as there was a loud thud, she opened her eye’s to see that a young woman a driven the butt of her pulse rifle into the Imperials helmet. The force of the impact had sent the imperial soldier sprawling backwards

“Leave HER alone!” Yelled Éclair. “You have to go through me first, and trust when I say this, I DON’T play nice” Éclair brought the rifle to bare of the solider, and fire a few rounds.

Unfortunately the rifle was not strong enough to cut the ODIN thick armour. Without hesitation the solider rip of his helmet, Eclairs blow had damaged it. “Bitch” he yelled while he rushed. The impacted caused the two to run into Emily knocking her to the ground.

Soon the Imperial solider realized the error of his way, he had underestimated both Éclair strength and speed. She was fast and stronger then any he had ever fought before, but in the end his ODIN armour prevailed. He caught Éclair with a backhand throwing her hard against the wall. While Éclair was dazed her grabbed his gun and took aim.

There was a flash of light, followed by a loud bang, and soon after the Imperial solider fell dead to the ground. As Éclair came to her senses she turned to see Emily standing there, the gun in her hand was still smoking. In her hand was an older model gun, the type that used solid ammunition; it was the gun that Emily’s father had given to her.

With lightning speed Éclair was on her feet again, she grabbed Emily’s arm “Come with me I have to keep you safe”

Frozen Emily stood there, she had never taken a life before, she had never seen the one’s a Tatania as living. Gradually she faded back to what was going on around her. “Who are you?” she asked

“Names is not important at the moment” responded Éclair “What is important is that I make sure that you are safe”

"Multiple new contacts! Bearing on the system ecliptic, coming towards Steel Butterfly at zero-niner-seven!" The shout came from one of the officer at the bridge of the HMS Fearless.

Honor Harrington's head snapped around at the tactical holo tank at the center of the bridge, displaying a cluster of new icons that certainly were not from the Rebellion Alliance, but nor were they Imperial ships. Was this the JIL task force? Impossible, the latest intel she had recieved was clear on the matter that the JIL wouldnt be making its move yet, and it certainly wouldnt be here on the Orion Sector this soon.

Her confusion disappeared in fraction of a second as the ships were identified as those of the Cspallan Space Fleet, and the voice of the Cspallan Fleet Commander came thru from the communications channels. The bridge crew of the Fearless glanced at each other with signs of desperation and confusion in their faces. They turned their gaze on her, seeking for the fountain of re-assurance that she was. And she was that now, her expression steely and her gaze filled with icy determination.

"Open all channels, i want everyone to hear this" She said after Admiral Dodalla had stated her intentions to the Cspallan fleet.

"Channels open Admiral."

"This is Fleet Admiral Harrington in command of the CSN 5th Fleet to the Cspallan Fleet Commander. We will not engage your forces, but be assured that any hostile action towards us will be responded to in kind." She stated shortly and simply, then making a cutting motion with her hand to indicate the comms officer to close the channels.

"We continue as planned people." She told them.

The 5th Fleet was now within range of Steel Butterfly to commence their planetfall operation. The troop transports at the middle of the formation opened their cargo hatches and began discorging dozens of Assault Shuttles, Pinnaces and Drop Pods.

The drop pods hit the athmosphere first. They were roughly egg shaped with a height of twelve meters and a base diameter of eight meters. They carried no troops at all, but instead something much much more deadly. Tactical Armor. Eight meter tall bipedal fighting machines. They were the primary heavy firepower platform of Fleet Strike forces, and they were ideally suited for planetfall operations. The drop pods ignited like meteors as they hit the athmosphere, their shielding straining to protect the pods from the immense temperatures created by the re-entry.

Behind them came the main waves. Assault Shuttles and Pinnaces, carrying thousands of troopers down to the surface of Steel Butterfly.

The planetfall of the first wave did not take long. Defensive fire from planetary batteries had been intense, and several Drop Pods and Pinnaces had been lost to their scything fire. But many more got thru, and there was nothing to stop the Fleet Strike forces from making it to the ground.

The first to touch down were the Tactical Armor units. Their Drop Pods had peeled away from under them to reveal their frames, backpack mounted boosters fired to execute the final deccelerations in order to bring the mechanized fighting systems to ground safely.

They touched down in earth shaking thumps as their twenty-tonne bulks hit the ground, their legs crouching to absorb the shock energy created by the impact. They landed in groups of three. Securing their landing zones as they came down, they quickly began sweeping the area for the following Pinnaces and Assault Shuttles.

Defensive fire opened up at them from the surrounding buildings of the slum sector they had landed to. Both light and heavy weapons began firing furiously from windows and roofs of buildings at the massive fighting machines. Cities were the places where Tactical Armor units were in their element. Their mobility allowed them to strafe and evade effectively behind the cover offered by the buildings, but regardless, several of the TA's went down as defensive fire tore thru their armor before they had time to evade. The surviving ones avoided the fate of their comrades as they dashed behind buildings for cover and soon it were the Imperials who found themselves in the receiving end of firepower. The heavy anti-personnel cannons and grav guns carried by the TA's opened fire, ripping open building sides, tearing thru Imperial firing positions, grav guns sending explosive rounds at tremendous velocities thru whatever cover the Imperials had. But the carnage did not end there, the Assault Shuttles and Pinnaces of the first wave swooped down, their ground-attack armaments scything thru the defensive positions with terrible efficiency.

But nevertheless, casualties mounted as the Clairmont Fleet Strike 5th and 9th Regiments made their planetfall. But soon, once they were free to strike back more effectively, they would take bring their righteous vengenace for the deaths of their brothers upon the Imperial defenders.

ooc: Steel, sorry, I know I'm kind of jacking, but I just wanted to say that I absolutely worship you for this awesome story. I'm doing my best to read the whole thing. Would you mind if I copied it and showed it to some friends. I know they'd be way thrilled to read this.

ooc: Steel, sorry, I know I'm kind of jacking, but I just wanted to say that I absolutely worship you for this awesome story. I'm doing my best to read the whole thing. Would you mind if I copied it and showed it to some friends. I know they'd be way thrilled to read this.

[OOC: would it be possible to simple give them the URL? Anyhow, thank you.]

"Help me!" Allison screamed as her fingers slipped another inch. The city was in chaos...no one paid attention.

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A good bit away, Alexei saw the Rebel pod and the soldier in ODIN. Strapping his second gun to his back, Alexei darted to where the soldier was hanging.

"Stop...er...STOP RIGHT THERE!" Two guards ordered, raising their hands. In his ODIN Armor, Alexei lowered his shoulder, plowed through them, and jumped down a level. Just a little further...

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Allison looked down to where the pod had fallen. Multiple levels down, she would not survive the fall. Her arms were growing tired, and her body weary...

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Dodging blasts that often hit civilians, Alexei continued towards the soldier in need. Approaching the ledge, Alexei slid out over the edge, grabbing the grate ledge with one hand and kicking the soldier under the edge to the level below. Swinging out and then back again, Alexei jumped after her.

"THERE!" screamed the guards. "GET THEM NOW!"

The shots were constant as they rained down through the gaps in the grate above. The soldier was shocked, and Alexei told her to stay back behind a wall. Pulling his PHAR off his back, Alexei stepped out and confronted the guards.

The onslaught of phaser pulses caught the guards by surprise and Alexei slaughtered many in the first volley. The Imperials connected with Alexei multiple times, knocking him back, but not penetrating his ODIN Mk.III. Armor. Eventually it seemed as if a whole brigade was firing on him, so he chucked plasma grenades and ran back towards the soldier he was trying to rescue.

"Lets go!" he shouted, grabbing the soldier's hand.

"W-where?" Allison replied, looking up at him. The sound of a girl's voice caught Alexei off guard for a second, but no longer for he picked her up and pulled her behind him. The two sprinted back towards the ledge, ignoring the hailstorm of blaster fire and Imperials. Wrapping his arms around Allison, Alexei dove off the ledge, spinning and shooting whenever he faced upwards.

The fall seemed endless, but Alexei switched on his ODIN boosters and turned them up as far as they could go. Still, Allison's weight was too much for the rockets, and the two of them simple fell slower, making them easy targets for Imperials, who once again connected with Alexei numerous times. Nevertheless, the boosters made them survive the fall, and as they touched the ground, Alexei and the shocked Allison took off for the darkness known as the slums.

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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Ensign Allison Wilson
Helmsman of the Outlander

There was a brief flashed of light followed by a thunderous roar, as a nearby build was hit by incoming artillery. Collapsing from the impact the build through dust and debris into the street, visibility was now almost zero.

“The close” proclaimed sergeant Closier “Any idea who fire that one?”

Lieutenant Ried grabbed Closier a pulled him behind a giant rock that had fallen into the street. “Not really” the two opposing force were engage almost to the point of being locked into hand-to-hand combat. Both sides were now lobbing artillery into the general area hoping to do damage to the other with a disregard for their own force. In truth command personal had little idea were there own forces actually were. It was chaos in every sense of the word, the initial landing force had been separated, and communication was being jammed. Due to the fight space is was a shot first ask question later policy, those caught in the middle, whoever they way be, were considered to unavoidable causalities. Pulse fire cutting through the dust remind Ried of that fact.

“Return fire” yelled the young lieutenant

It was madness, it was as if chaos had taken a physical form. The battle in the confines of the city was savage butchery. No quarter was expected, none was given. Imperial and Clairmontian troops clashed in the confines of buildings and streets alike, fighting for every inch of Steel Butterfly soil with savage fury.

The 537th and 432nd ACS Battalions along with the 3rd Tactical Armor regiment had taken the worst of the beatings, blunting the edge of the Imperial defence in the sector that had been chosen for the planetfall. Casualties were high among them, and their fighting efficiency had dropped drastically as they took on everything the Imperials had to throw at them at this sector. But now, the landing sector was mostly clear and the troops were coming down on the secured area.

Everything had not gone smoothly however. During the planetfall, Imperial defensive fire and fighter coverage had caused wide dispersal on the troop drops, sending many Assault Shuttles and Pinnaces down several kilometers away from their targeted landing zones.

Captain Michael O'Neal cursed silently as he attempted to gain an understanding of the overall tactical situation. It was a real mess, the Assault Shuttle carrying the 2nd Company had dropped way off course, thanks to an anonymous Imperial Fighter pilot O'Neal truly would have wished to properly congratulate, with a damn Grav Gun round to the face. The company had dropped to an ass end of nowhere, somewhere in the slums of the city. Judging by the maps he had downloaded to his suit, he knew that the 2nd Company was atleast 24 kilometers away from the landing zone. He had made the call to attempt to link up with the forces allready securing the beachead and continue on from there. But it seemed that half of the entire damn Imperial Ground Forces was in-between him and the landing zone.

On the way there, the 2nd Company had encountered others who shared their unlucky fate. Two platoons of Marines, apparently from the 217th Marine Battalion had ended up to the slums as well, the 2nd Company had found them just in time to fend off an Imperial attack that would have wiped out the sixty marines in very short order. In addition, they had found an Assault Shuttle that had gone thru a building, and which had carried two Saber Main Battle Tanks and an APC. The crew of those vechiles had been extremely relieved when the ACS had arrived. And there had been a few instances more.

To his disliking, O'Neal had found himself as the ranking officer, and now was in temporary command of no less than two hundred and sixty troops and three armored vechiles. Would it be enough to get thru the Imperials and to the landing zone, he had no clue and he rather wouldnt start to guess.

His thoughts were abruptly cut off as a voice came thru the comm.
"Contact up-front! Count atleast two platoons worth of Marines in defensive positions, we're taking fire!" The voice was that of Sergeant Collix, the scout trooper who had taken the responsibility of taking the point with his squad.

O'Neal barked orders to the troops. The scout squad rapidly dived for cover at the point as the Imperials opened fire on them. The two Saber MBT's rumbled forward, taking the spearhead of the assault, coming around a corner and facing the Imperial positions. Their main guns spoke in unison, hurling rounds at massive velocities towards the Imperials. The rounds connected with walls of buildings, blowing massive holes in them and generating large clouds of dust as walls came down and the rounds robbed the Imperials of their cover.

The 3rd and 4th Platoon of the 2nd ACS Company took the point, and began a rapid advance towards the Imperial positions. Firing their Grav Guns from the hip, their lines of silver lightning turned parts of walls to dust, their hypersonic rounds releasing massive amounts of kinetic energy at whatever they struck. Few Imperials clad in ODIN Power Armor went down as they were struck by hundreds of the depleted uranium teardrops, but those who fell numbered in less than a dozen. But the fire had the desired effect, the Imperials preferred to keep their heads down in the face of the storm of fire they faced. The ACS strode towards their positions now, the buildings and barricades they hid in. As the range came down to hundred meters, massive return fire from the Imperial Marines lashed back at the ACS. Energy beams from heavy weapons and polaron rifles alike lashed at the ACS, the weaker beams failing to penetrate the armor but the heavier ones punching thru legs, faces and chests alike. Half a dozen ACS troopers fell immidietly to the deadly fire. More went down as the fire intensity increased, Armored Combat Suits penetrated by high-energy beam weapons.

"Mortars now now now!" Captain O'Neal screamed to the comm, and the Reaper ACS Troopers at the back of the formation opened fire with their support weaponry.

60mm and 120mm auto-mortars spewed out anti-personnel and high-explosive grenades at rapid paces, streams of grenades falling to the heads of the Imperial marines. Heavy weapons were silenced, troopers blown up as the grenades exploded amidst the defenders.

The fire pressure lessened, and the ACS began a final sprint towards their enemy. The range between them and the Imperials dropped rapidly, and in a few seconds, the ACS were amongst them. Drawing their monomolecular combat blades just before hitting the Imperial position, the ACS dived in for the kill.

The ensuing battle lasted only for a few minutes, but it was savage butchery where no mercy was given. The monomolecular blades of the ACS cut apart the Imperials, blood and gore decorating what had been an effective defensive position Heads and limbs were severed as the monomolecular blades, assisted by the powerfull servo-muscles of the ACS suits cut the ODIN armor of the Imperial Marines.

Then it was over. The final Imperial Marine cut in two from the vaist as Captain O'Neal slashed him with his blade. He felt no exultation for the victory, he was certain that there would be countless battles yet and in one of them, he wouldnt necessarily be on the winning side.

"Emperor! Emperor!" Richard Lesc, Director of Imperial Economics, shouted as he wobbled into the Emperor's office, fried chicken in hand. "General Baine has been killed!" The General had been the Imperial Commander of the Mobile Infantry for a year now, after General Grey was murdered by Alexei Ivanova.

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"How..." Emperor Nemerov began, facing the window. "...unfortunate." The sun was setting on this day of death outside the window of the Imperial palace. From his crow's nest, he could see the rebels pressing away from Monarch Heights and chuckled for a bit. It would only take them longer now, he thought, and it would let him live for perhaps a day or two more. Still, that may have been the Rebel's plan all along.

"Sir," Lesc whined. "The soldiers need a commander..."

"Dick," Nemerov replied, not turning to face the man. "How long have I know you?" Nemerov chuckled once more at the slob of a man's name. Dick Lesc. Immaturity aside, Nemerov had never felt more free. At a time when he should be most concerned, he found humor in even the simplest things.

"Four year, sir," the man said, taking a bite of his chicken and chewing with his mouth open.

"...and have I let you down yet?" Nemerov asked, smiling, but Lesc couldn't see it.

"N-no, sir," was the man's reply. It was interesting to Nemerov that even now he had such control over his understudies. "But still, sir, the rebels are pressing fast...the Empire will die if you don't do something!"

Nemerov agreed...but he didn't really care anymore. There was nothing he could do, no string he could pull, no order he could give, that would save it now. There was a time that he thought he could overcome it, but after living under a shadow for nearly four decades, it was time to give it up. Dr. Ackerman had ruined him, Steel Butterfly, and the rest of the Orion Sector...and Nemerov simply felt too tired...

"Sir?"

He was dying; he could feel it. The pain came and went as his body tried to fight the toxins, but he knew who would win in the end. That bastard was always one step ahead of him.

"Perhaps I should talk to Dr. Ackerman, sir..."

"Perhaps you should..." Nemerov replied, quiet to almost a whisper. "Perhaps you should get on your knees and praise him in all his glory and what he HAS DONE FOR YOU...FOR US ALL!" Nemerov screamed, turning and knocking the lamps off his desk. Frightened, Lesc stepped back and dropped his chicken. "...but the man can do NOTHING, my fat friend for he has already done everything! Everywhere he goes, he spreads death...and every day I sat back and did nothing." Nemerov reached down and picked up a piece of broken glass. "Now, as I kill you, I am accepting my fate. It's only one more murder after all...it's time for someone else to suffer..."

Lesc's eyes grew wide as Nemerov heaved the glass at him. Dodging the projectile, Lesc looked back just in time to see Nemerov whip out his pistol.

"P-please..." Lesc begged, but Nemerov simply tossed him the weapon.

"Do it," Nemerov said, calm as ever. "Save yourself..."

Shaking, Lesc raised the gun and was promptly destroyed by the room's auto defense system. Nemerov stared at the ashes of the bastard and felt nothing...this was no longer his world to care about...

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Emperor Alexander Nemerov
Star Empire of Steel Butterfly,
In the Orion Sector which includes:
Steel Isle, Steel Moon,
CTaNbHaR Eabo4Ka, XIII,
Aeisis, Bivens, Esthar VIII
Orion Sector Alliance Premier,
Order of the Seraphim

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Richard Lesc
Imperial Director of Economics

L6 Gamma 98 Red

To: Civil and Military Command, Star Empire of Steel Butterfly
From: Core Commander Broadstreet, Willard, C-i-C, 1st IWBS, JIL, Order of the Seraphim
Subj: Rebel Invasion

We are hereby notifying the Emperor that the Joint Interplanetary Legion warships, under operational command of Core Commander Broadstreet, have arrived in the Steel Butterfly system with overwhelming force. Das Sketch confirms that the position of the Order of the Seraphim is one of support and recognition for the legal, true government of the Empire of Steel Butterfly, and it is our obligation to come to your defense in this time of great need. Our forces are in a position to deploy against rebel forces currently on the offensive. These forces have also no doubt, by now, noticed our presence.

We feel that, as per the Order Charter, the Combined Resources Corps command situated in Steel Butterfly be activated and engage in communications with the 1st IWBS (Interplanetary Warfare Battle Squadron) to coordinate a battle plan within 24 hours.

If a period of 24 hours passes and we have not received a response, we will begin directing electronic and information defenses in system, which will render communications unavailable except by quantum laser. We will then proceed to engage in fleet operations against the attackers if they do not stand down.

===========================
Outsystem, Steel Butterfly
Aboard the Mars.
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The tactical display recorded, with a no-nonsense color scheme, the energy spikes, flying masses, ridiculously immense gravitational forces and flurry of rapid communications which marked the ongoing battle approaching Steel Butterfly. Executor Cullens watched, and swallowed.

"Commo, send a message to Core Commander Broadstreet," he ordered, "Ask him if he's out of his fucking mind."

"Sir?" the young Centurion blinked at the prospect.

Cullens sighed. "Make an inquiry to our fleet commander if he is certain a single battle squadron will be sufficient to accomplish the mission, Centurion."

"Aye, sir."

She was a tough ship - solid and powerful, like all JIL warships - but there were only four of her kind in this side of the Universe. Only three hundred twenty-five fighting vessels, not counting the fighters. It was foolish to send this force, which had been designed only to hold their own in a military exercise at Mercury, to engage in such a war. Foolish.

Executor Cullens wanted backups, not because he was afraid, but because he simply wanted to return home alive one day.

It if was not for the HOLO display then Field Commanders Jefferys would have never known that there was a battle raging on around him. The Armour of his command tank was very adept at silencing the horrors of war. However, his HOLO display showed the full scope of the carnage. A glance over at the monitor reminded him of how much it a had cost them to take such a small piece of real estate, and how much more it would cost them in the end.

“Engage them closer” Barked Jefferys

“But sir” interrupted one of the other officers “If we get any closer then we will be fighting hand to hand.”

“Then we will fight them hand to hand, then door to door” he had been ordered to limit civilian losses wherever possible, and his greatest fear was that civilian would be caught between his force and the Imperials. “If that is what it will take, then see that it is done”

There was a brief flicker in the lights as artillery stuck near their position. “Any word of Air support?” inquired Jefferys

The sweat poured off his nose as he ran, Allison close behind. Alexei concentrated on his breathing...in...out...in...out...so that he would not get winded. He could in fact hear the breaths inside of him, loud as the air rushed in, quiet as it escaped...as if the body was unhappily letting it go. He turned the corner, and barely saw them.

The Imperials had undoubtedly found their position on the city grid, and were ready for the two rebels, guns in hand. Alexei and Allison skidded to a halt, almost falling over...before being slaughtered by the tempest of bullets and blasters.

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

Alexei turned the corner, and barely saw them. A gasp escaped his lungs as he tackled Allison to the ground, but the shots seemed to miss. In front of him laid multiple soldiers dressed in strange uniforms who engaged the Imperials and blocked their view of the two rebels. This strange force was too much for the Imperials, however, and they quickly retreated into the darkness of the slums.

"Well done, Director," A soldier who appeared to be a leader said to another. "Nothing like breaking your own laws once again..."

"Quiet, Andrews," the Director replied, taking off his helmet.

"I'm your superior, here," Andrews responded. "...ahem...Joe..."

"Yes, Sky Marshall," Joe said mockingly. Sky Marshall Andrews simply rolled his eyes. Alexei was in shock.

"Don't even tell me..." he said, picking up an even more shocked Allison and walking in the opposite direction. "I don't want to know..."

"You're right," Director Joe replied, walking after him. Sky Marshall Andrews motioned towards his men to stay put and then followed. "You probably shouldn't know..."

"But then again," Sky Marshall Andrews continued, picking up the Director's cue. "You'd be dead right now if it wasn't for us..."

"You shouldn't be telling me this..." Alexei said, not turning to face them. He just kept walking, along with Allison.

"You're exactly right," a man, in his early fifties, said as he stepped out of the shadows. "But it didn't harm much, so there's no need to change it..."

"Excuse me?" Alexei asked, raising his weapon, but the man simply walked towards him...closer...closer...

"There," the man said, pointing behind him. "They were aimed at you two." The Director and the Sky Marshall exchanged glances. "You need to be more careful..."

It was then that the same three men, the Director, the Sky Marshall, and the man from the shadows appeared right beside those who were already there.

"You have poisoned the timeline," the second shadowy man announced. "It will be restored."

"What the fuck is going on?" Alexei demanded, but the only replies he got were two stares from the two shadowy men.

"I never realized I was that ignorant..." one of them said. "But then again...look where I am now..."

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

The sweat poured off his nose as he ran, Allison close behind. Alexei concentrated on his breathing...in...out...in...out...so that he would not get winded. He could in fact hear the breaths inside of him, loud as the air rushed in, quiet as it escaped...as if the body was unhappily letting it go. He turned the corner, and barely saw them before they were crushed under the weight of the platform.

The sight was strange...the Imperials smashed to death suddenly before his eyes...but neither he nor Allison had the time or energy to think...and so they climbed. Up the bodies...up the ruins...up towards the sky.

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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Ensign Allison Wilson
Helmsman of the Outlander

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Field Marshal Alexei Ivanova

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Sky Marshall Mark Andrews

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Director Joseph Frost

Emily fought to keep her balance as the ground once again, as the FA took another major hit. With the exception of the red flashing lights the hallway was dark, which at time made it hard for her to move around.

“Stop” she yelled to the woman was running in front of “I’m not going any where, until you tell me who you are, and where me are going. There is no escape they have closed off this entire section trying to isolate the boarding party. I’m not going any where until I have some answers”

Through the darkness Emily could see that the woman was rather upset by Emily’s delay. She turned and took a few quick steps towards her.

“Time is not our friend right now” answered the woman. She place the palm of her hand over Emily’s stomach “Right now at this moment in time there are two lives that hang in the balance, if you and your child are going to live through this then you have to trust me”

Speechless Emily looked over the mysterious woman, with the exception of Henry and Alexei, her own father didn’t know about the pregnancy. There was something in her eye’s that told her that the woman could be trusted. Nodding in agreement Emily followed as the two went down a series of corridor until they ended in up a dead end.

“Aren’t these escape pods?” inquired Emily, while pointing at the surroundings

“Very good” answered the woman “Now getting, we’re getting out of here.”

Panic set in “Have seen what it’s like out there” yelled Emily in protest

In a smooth motion the Woman pulled out a gun and pointed it at Emily “How many times do I have to tell you this, there is no time for these games. Now get in.”

With some hesitation Emily got into the escape pod.


“Ma’am got an escape pod from section 23 launching” yelled on of the officers on the bridge

If the battle for space wasn’t enough Dodalla still had to deal with problem on board her own ship. “What the hell, do they know something that we don…”

Before she could finish her word there was a violent impact.

The force had been so strong that it had knocked her from her chair. Sparks from overwhelmed conduit exploded, and for a moments the lights when out. At a few stations fires broke out.

Dodalla felt a slight sensation of pain on her fore head. Wincing in pain as felt for serious damage, only to find small amount of blood. “Report” she yelled out

“Enemy missile breached the shields. We had a direct impact into section 23. We’ve got a hull breach in section 12 through 35. Communication, and sub light engines are offline. Weapon systems are still good though.”

For a moment she just stared at the blood on her fingers. Despite all the FA strength and firepower, it did not mean they where safe by any means. For thought drifted to the rest of the fleet, on till communication could be restored they would have to act with out her guidance

Emily slammed forward in her seat as the escape pod hit the planets atmosphere. Outside her window she could see a orange glow start to form.

“Where are we going to land” Asked Emily “Are we going to land in friendly territory.”

Letting out a bit of chuckle, and then briefly looked back at Emily “Trust me when I say this. There is no friendly territory down there.” Again the craft shock violently, this time alarm started going off. “Damn, we just took a hit from the planets guns. I’m losing control of the craft it looks like we are not going to have any say in were we land. Brace yourself we are coming in hot.”

To Emily it seemed like an eternity as they fell from the sky. Looking through the window see could see that they were approaching a rather large building, and fast. Realizing that they were about to crash she braced her self, then suddenly everything went dark.

They had since decided that the armies were going the wrong way. Mark gazed off towards where they went through the giant scar in the city and on the planet itself. Keeping his eyes above the horizon as to not focus on the death under his boots, he looked back towards where they were to go.

"Do we follow them or not?" he asked, shrugging.

"You sure our scans aren't working?" Joseph asked, pointing back towards their ship.

"Positive," Mark replied as he nodded his head.

Dave Bivens gazed at the sky which was covered in deep, black smoke. They had gotten in rather easily, with the fighting in space as intense as it was. There was simply not enough time to target a simple shuttle when dropship after dropship was landing or being shot down. Now they were to travel in this forbidden territory...surrounded by battle and civilians...yet still alone.

"There's no sense in following them," Bivens commented. "We'd just be playing catch-up this whole time. Might as well press through the city."

Mark and Joseph stared at each other for some time, undoubtedly communicating through their comm-links. After a while, Mark took off his helmet and ran his glove through his hair.

"I'd strip down," he said with an unhappy look on his face. "Don't want to be too big of targets." Walking towards the shuttle he paused and turned his head. "There should be trench coats in here."

In the city, they were barely noticed. The guard was almost entirely gone, and except for the looting every so often, fear kept the people in line. The sound of war was off in the distance, but loud enough to remain on one's mind for all hours of the day, deep into the night.

As the sun disappeared behind the buildings, Mark took the lead. He navigated streets effortlessly, often without checking for signs or markings. Joseph asked why, and Mark simply replied, "I've been here before."

The three made their way to a rather large store which seemed to have been attacked by the looters. Mark slowly picked up his pace, until going into a full sprint. Joseph and Dave followed close behind.

Kicking down the door, Mark pulled out his PHAR and quickly inspected the building. Joseph and Bivens came to see that it was ruined, with valuables either smashed or missing. The blood stains, like the shattered glass, were everywhere.

The other two came upon Mark as he sat on the floor, his back to them. A man, in his fifties it seemed, was hunched over on the floor in the corner of the room, a gun in his hand an a stain on the wall. Bivens put his hand on Mark's shoulder, as Joseph inspected the man.

Mark looked up, tears in his eyes, and Bivens looked down on the woman he was holding. Blood rushed from all three of her eyes, but mostly from the large on in the middle of her forehead. The back of her head was gone, and the horrific red liquid was covering Mark's arm and pants.

A thud sounded outside the back door as if something had fallen from above. It was followed by another, and Mark was on his feet before the third hit the ground. Sprinting after the men, Mark aimed low, slicing many of their legs in half as they hit the ground screaming.

Mark was relentless, stabbing one in the skull with an army knife and ripping it out his face. The other two tried to crawl away, but Mark moved with satanic swiftness, slicing one's stomach and the other's neck. Throwing up blood, the last one alive gazed up at Mark with his knee-less legs kicking and his hands holding his intestines in his body. Mark raised his pistol, and gave the thief and murderer the same treatment that his mother had recieved.

Joseph and Bivens finally caught up to Mark, who was sitting on the ground amist the carnage and crying. Bivens turned to puke, and Joseph simply shook his head.

"T-they were my p-parents," Mark stammered. "Why? W-what did they have to d-do with this?"

"Mark...I..." Joseph said, feeling his own eyes swell up. "I don't know."

"I'm going to kill them all," Mark said, scowling and standing up. He returned his pistol and knife to their holsters and walked back into the store. Joseph glanced at Bivens and then followed.

Mark's parents were covered in now-red sheets when Joseph entered and Mark was standing over them with a flare. The two watched as his parents burned through the sheets until Joseph forced himself to leave, not able to take it.

Bivens and Joseph watched Mark through where the back window once was, his face strained on the floor, illuminated by the dancing flames of his parents. For an hour or so he didn't move, until finally, as the flames subsided, he reaced down and gathered a pinch of ash from both piles and combined them in his fist.

Grabbing a locket off the shelf, Mark filled it with the black of his parents and locked it shut. Working quickly, he welded the locket shut, found a strong chain, and hung it around his neck. Joseph and Bivens, now recovered, took this as a cue to enter.

The blood had dried on Mark as he put his leather trench jacket back on, which he had managed to remember to take off as he entered. Silently, he left the building, and Joseph and Bivens followed.

They walked for a few yards before Mark turned back and lit another flare. Tossing it, he turned around, as the neighborhood behind him quickly went to hell. Bivens and Joseph followed a few feet behind as they continued their journey, speachless.

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Lt. Commander Mark Andrews
"Raptor Zero"
15th Fighter Squadron

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Dave Bivens
President/CEO of Bivens Co.

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Lieutenant Joseph Frost
Vehicle Specialist/Sniper,
1st Marines

Slowly the world came back in focus, and well as the dull pain that reminded Emily what had happened. Quickly sitting up she was forced to lay back down as a wave of nausea came over her.

“Just take it easy” said a familiar voice from somewhere inside the room “It not like we are going anywhere.”

After taking a few moments to collect her self she finally found the strength to sit up. Looking around the room she wished that she hadn’t. Surrounding them as an 8x10 cell, which only feature was the two beds at either end.

“what..” asked Emily confused trying to piece to together event of the past few hours “..Happened”

“We were fortunate enough to drop right into the middle of NiMbus headquarters” answered the Woman with a hint of sarcasm “With in moments of impact their security teams where on us. Not much I could do.”

Rubbing her head she tried to thing of her option, in truth she could come up with any, she had no real military training. So she decided to make the best of the present situation. “Well I guess now that we are no going anywhere introduction are in order.”

A bit of smile came across the Woman face, she extended her hand in Emily’s direction “Agent Éclair, nice to meet you Emily Williams”

Taking the Éclair hand she gave it a bit a shake “You’re an agent, that would explain why you know so much about me, tell was it my father that sent you, or Henry?”

Resting her head against the wall Éclair let out a bit of sigh “Neither sent me, I’m not with the first X, I work for Agency known as Saecula Saeculbrum”

“I’ve never heard of them” interrupted Emily

“That is because it does not exist, at least not yet anyway” quickly answered Éclair “to put it simply I’m from the future”

Endless possibilities of what Éclair was implying ran through Emily’s mind “You’re saying you’re from the future, why should I believe you. More importantly why should I trust, everything was fine aboard the FA”

“Everything was not Ok aboard the FA” Shot Éclair “If you didn’t notice the section that we were in was vaporized from a missile, now how would I now that the missile was going to hit if I didn’t about before hand” pausing she allowed Emily a moment to consider what she was saying. “As for the trust thing, I’m going to tell a secret, something that few know, something that I only tell people I trust with my life.”

Emily soon realized the logic to her word, and found no choice but to accept it as the truth. “Ok what might this secret be?”

“My real name” quickly answered Éclair “For security reason members of the SS are assigned code name’s, mine obliviously was Éclair. Soon I adopted it as my name, I found that due past, my name represented a curse, one that I could not escape.” Éclair stood up and walked over the Cell’s door “My real name is Makenzie Allenson, daughter to Jade Allenson.”

Even though Éclair back was turned to Emily, Emily could see Éclair’s pain. It was in her voice, but more importantly her eye. The Woman standing in front her was far from the innocent three year old the Emily had met.

Suddenly Emily’s thoughts drifted to that night over a year ago. Henry and her had been at a conference in Barthlum, when the conference had been cut short. Jade Allensons who was director of Tappee’s intelligence agency, her Husband was murdered, Believe NiMbus was responsible they had called Henry in and Emily had joined him. When they had arrived the area was covered by various people, but at least for Emily had stuck out was Jade’s daughter who was crying uncontrollably in some mans arms. Looking at Éclair now she could see the same pain that was also in the little girls eyes that night. She didn’t know what to say, so she tried to change the subject “So what does this have to do with me”

“Your important to the future” Answered Éclair never turning around “Well, your not, your unborn child is. Realize it or not, there have already been a number of attempts on your life, all of which have been stopped. However, with this little war it was felt that you might find yourself in danger, so I was sent back to act as body guard.”

“My child, but why is..”

Éclair cut her off before she could finish “That I can’t tell you”

As the door closed, the surround chaos was silenced, and the room fell quiet. Jade hit a few buttons on her desk; suddenly opera could be heard playing quietly in the background. Letting her head fall back she could feel her eye lids become heavy, it had been nearly three day since all this had began. Three days with no rest, no reprieve, only death. Opening her eyes she looked through her office window at the main board, more importantly the counter.

So many dead, in such a short period of time, was all this worth the price that they were now paying. For the first time since all this began she wondered if she had truly done the right thing. Out of the corner of her eye she caught a photo that was sitting in the corner her desk. It was a picture of her and her family on a bright sunny day. She could help but wonder how she had come so far she come since then, it had been nearly six months since she had last seen her children. Long ago she had promised her self that her own children would not suffer the same fate that she had, it was a promise that she now found that she could not keep.



Blood now covered the floor like water, the dead and the injured lay scattered across the cargo bay. With all the damage that the FA had taken the cargo bay had been turned into a make shift hospital.

“EMILY” yelled Henry desperately trying to find the woman he loved among injured. The scene if self was horrible. There were people severely burned, other that were missing limb, and then there were those that were just mangled. Normally Henry would been taken back by the horror, but he honestly didn’t see any of it, there was a single thought driving him. Desperate he grabbed one of the Doctors, “I’m look for a woman, about five ten, black hair glasses, have you seen her”

“Listen buddy, take a look around.” He motion to the surrounding “I’ve got bodies here that don’t even look like bodies, I don’t have time to help you find your girlfriend”

In a heartbeat Henry grabbed the man by the collar and pulled him closer “Now you listen to me, you are going to help me find her or…”

“ENOUGH” yelled a voice from behind Henry, he turned to find Admiral Dodalla standing there with her gun drawn and pointed in Henry direction. “Now let the good doctor go, the well being of my crew is more important then a single person.”

Releasing his grip Henry took a step back with his hands in the air, as he did Dodalla place her gun back into the holster “Don’t you have to be on the bridge” asked Henry.

“The impact knocked out communication so I can’t talk to the rest of the fleet, I came to talk to you.” she looked around the room “Besides, it would appear for the moment that my crew needs me here more.”

“What did you need to talk to me about” inquired Henry.

“I think I now where Emily is” answered Dodalla. “according to our sensor logs the escape pod that was launched before the missile impact was carrying Emily, and Ensign Wetherspoon”

“Then I’m going after them” said Henry as he turned to run

“Henry!” yelled Dodalla “The pod crashed into the planet, it the information the Rebels gave us is correct they land smack into the middle of NiMbus’s headquarter. I wouldn’t hold much hope.”

Ignoring her words he started running towards the nearest shuttle bay.

The streets of the capital city were a mixture of blood, oily smoke rising to the sky, bodies and wreckage. Not a single sector of the city had avoided the carnage, and with the Imperial Defenders falling back, chaos had run amok and looters and criminals had gone to work, pillaging and looting whatever they could find. In several buildings where the ACS had ventured to, they had discovered murdered civilians with their apartments looted of all valuables. It was simply so insane that it defiled all understanding. Here, war was upon these people's doorsteps and they began to kill and steal from each other! Captain Michael O'Neal couldnt understand it, and he didnt really want to, for this madness would only make those trying to understand it equally mad.

In a few occasions, they had caught the murderers and looters at work, and justice had been swiftly delivered to them. What a Grav Gun could do to an un-armored human being was a terrible sight, and many of the buildings where they had caught criminals had gotten a new wall decoration of blood and gore.

He checked the map that the AI of his suit projected to his retina. His makeshift heavy company had traversed ten kilometers, but with the need to go around many obstacles that they couldnt go thru, they hadnt really gotten closer than 20 kilometers from the Landing Zone. He glanced up to the sky for any signs of allied craft in the vicinity. The space beyond the confines of the athmosphere was alight with the bright flashes of thermo-nuclear detonations as well as bright beams of energy coming from the Imperial starships defending the planet. Suddenly, his suit AI drew a red triangle around something that plummeted thru the athmosphere. It wasnt a craft, of that the AI in the suit was certain as it concluded that the object was coming in in a ballistic entry vector instead of a completely controlled re-entry of a powered aerospace craft. The object glowed brightly under the heat of friction, as it came lower and lower. O'Neal's suit AI calculated the area where the object would drop. It was approximately twenty two kilometers from their current location. The voice of a youthly woman came from the speakers within his helmet.

"IFF confirmed, it is a drop pod of the 3rd Tactical Armor regiment." The AI spoke to O'Neal.

He considered the options. Either the force would head directly to the landing zone, and waste time they could use to do something else, or they would go after that drop pod. Tactical Armor units were crucial to this operation, and if he could get one of them to his company to boost their firepower, and they could get to the rear flank of the main Imperial defense line between the landing zone and the core areas of the city, they could cause some real havoc.

"Vera, how long will it take the company to reach the Landing Zone, assuming we avoid the larger Imperial troop concentrations and strongholds." He inquired the AI.

The AI thought of the inquiry for a few milliseconds before replying.

"It would take the company approximately nine to eleven hours to reach the landing zone under those parameters Captain O'Neal."

O'Neal thought of it for a moment and inquired the AI again.

"And how long would it take the company to reach the estimated landing area of that drop pod, assuming the same restrictions."

Another few milliseconds passed.

"Approximately three to five hours Captain O'Neal."

O'Neal thought about it for a minute in silence before finally making up his mind. It was of little point to try and get to the Landing Zone. By the time they got there, they would allready be away from where they really were needed. If they went after the drop pod, they would have the chance to penetrate deeper into Imperial held territory and possibly flank them from behind, giving the main force easier time to break thru. He opened up a channel to his Squad Leaders and other officers of the oversized company.

"Change of plans boys and girls. We are going after a Tactical Armor drop pod that came down about twenty two klicks from here. Relaying co-ordinates now. Pappas and Liang your squads will take the point. Boxer One will be right behind you."

He closed the channel and observed the image that the suit was projecting to his retina. The company was shifting to the new formation, and changing its heading towards their new objective. He hoped that the TA in that drop pod had came down intact, and the pilot would be allright, because if that was the case, it would be time to open a real can of whoopass in the rear of the enemy.

=======================================================

The space battle had lost some of its heat during the passed hours. As more and more ships either disappeared in bright flashes or became wrecked hulks, the amount of firepower in space at each given time began to go down. But even as the tide seemed to favor the attacking Rebel forces and their allies, another problem had appeared. The JiL Task Force assigned to deal with the Orion Sector incident had arrived, and it had arrived sooner than anyone had expected.

They were taking their time, coming in at a leisurable pace at the system ecliptic, right towards the heart of the battle. Admiral Honor Harrington felt a sense of failure creeping in her heart. The whole point of this Operation had been to bring down Emperor Nemerov and his goons before the JiL could arrive, but that objective was now scrapped and the number of options in her disposal was dwindling down rapidly. When she had read the proclamation of the JiL task force commander from one of her screens at the bridge of the Fearless, she had finally felt that now they were pinned between two fires.

She looked at the identification tags slated for the ships identified in the JiL task force. There were no Superdreadnaughts, that was one tiny relief, but there was atleast one Battlecruiser that they had been able to identify as well as numerous other medium to heavy combatants. If it came to a fight, as that fool Core Commander Broadstreet had threatened upon sending his proclamation, she was certain that they could annihilate the entire Task Force, especially if that idiot truly intended to take on all the three fleets that were attacking Steel Butterfly. But if it came to that, all would allready be lost. All bridges would be burned and there would be no coming back.

She prayed voicelessly in her mind that she wouldnt have to press the trigger and send her missiles against those who by all intents and purposes should be her allies. She swore she wouldnt be the one to start it, but by god if that maniac opened fire on her, she would bring down the full wrath of the 3rd Fleet on Broadstreets neck.

The imperial aide glided through the tiled halls of the palace. She held an air of superiority about her, and for good reason too. For she one of the few select people priveldged enough to personally serve Das Sketch. In tow was Admiral Lance von Beur, obviously not here on a routine visit. Upon his face rested a mighty scowl, despite his best efforts to maintain an outward appearance of military professionalism. His heels clicked sharply on the marble floors to a strict military beat as he quietly pondered his situation.

Just hours earlier, the 1st IWBS had finally arrived at Steel Butterfly. And therein lay the problem - one battle squadron was not going to be enough to rectify the situation. In fact, it was so bad, that all the battle squadrons in the galaxy wasn't going to matter. Like a festering wound, the open sore that is Steel Butterfly was an infectious influence spreading throughout the Order. Feeding upon itself, the chaos surrounding the beleagured planet had fully engulfed the Order, and worse, no one quite understood it yet.

M'lady, cooed the aide, jolting von Beur out of his reviere, admiral von Beur is here to see you

Let him in Alitta. And have the servants bring in some refreshments for the admiral, I'm sure he's parched.

Yes M'lady.
Lady Jagara wil see you now m'lord gestured Alitta as she held open the door to Lady Jagara's audience chamber. And without another word, she whisked away to do her lady's bidding.

Coughing slightly, von Beur entered the room, feeling apprehension and a not little sense of impending doom. Despite the extremely generous nature of Lady Jagara compared to the previous Das Sketchs, but bad news was bad news, and sometimes the powerful tend to hold the messenger accountable.

Have a seat admiral Das Sketch said softly, please, enjoy a cup a tea. A wave produces a quietly flurry of activity, and delicate china filled just right of steaming liquid appeared before von Beur almost magically.

"Every untterance from Das Sketch is to be interpreted as a command" The words echoed through his head as he mechanically picked up the teacup and sipped at his drink. Poison? Bio-toxin? AHHD? Serum? Tea? Sweet tea.....suprisingly good with an unusual texture..... Wait, the business at hand! Thoughts jumbled in his mind as he tried to make sense of what Lady Jagara would do next.

Good, isn't it? It's from my private stock. My aides import it fresh daily from one of our beneficiaries, very good produce from that nation. Of course, having good leaves is only half of it, my servants possess impeccable preparation technique.

von Beur nodded numbly, unsure of what else to do, and quietly continued sipping at his tea.

I understand that you have some news for me admiral? asked Das Sketch, causing von Beur to start and recompose himself.

Yes m'lady, I have some.....bad news to report regarding the Steel Butterfly situation. A suprisingly sound voice, even to his own ears, none of the knee quaking, freshed faced recruit fear that he felt from earlier. "Bite the bullet hard enough and maybe it won't blow out the back of your head", he steadied himself, and waited.

Well, go on admiral, tell me all about it.

Simply put m'lady, the situation is far graver than any intelligence report received to date. The insurrection agents sent by Tappee and Clairmont were none of the sort - they have entire battle squadrons surrounding Steel Butterfly! Their forces have already made landfall and the capital is being sieged as we speak. This is a disaster - I cannot forsee anything good possibly coming from this. The Order is consuming itself! Taking a deep breath, von Beur exhaled, metally commanding himself to remain calm, that last almost outburst being completely unplanned.

Lady Jagara gave a small smile, My, my admiral, do you really think it to be that bad? She put up her hand before von Beur could sputter a reply. No, I think I understand the situation completely. The Steel Butterfly empire is goin down in flames, and certain Order members are pouring oil on the fire. As a result, we are hopelessly entwined in a situation over which we have no control. And on top of that, we have subversive elements within the Steel Butterlfy government itself, seeking to replace emporer Nemerov - not that that information was in any form within your scope of operations.

Not at all m'lady mumbled von Beur, both suprised and relieved that Das Sketch seemed to have a well informed understanding of the situation at hand.

So what do you think we should do about this predicament admiral? You are one of my military advisors and Seraphim liason after all.

Once again von Beur felt his heart quiver, give the wrong suggestion and his career was over - if he was lucky. Well m'lady, it is apparent that the current situation cannot be salvaged with the resources that are in place now. The JIL simply doesn't have the necessary manpower or equipment to handle this situation. And to pull in the CRC would be to invite disaster. The Seraphim military was never meant to be used against its own. We would have to bring in our own fleets and armies to settle the matter. But doing so would give the others reason to bring in their own forces. Such could undoubtable spark a war, something the Order was meant to prevent..... So in short m'lady, I do not know. He held his breath, waiting for the sword to drop.

Peels of laughter echoed off the walls, von Beur sat, a look of stunned disbelief on his face.

Really von Beur? A frank response.....I never thought you could suprise me, but you did. Well done, considering that you had nothing to work with. Let me educate you on what we will do. von Beur sat motionless, betraying nothing beneath his now stotic visage. Deep inside, he was freed, a swirling vortex of joy and relief - he will wake up tommorrow.

We will do nothing.

Nothing m'lady? choked out von Beur, snapping out of his daze.

Yes, nothing. You've sumed it up rather well I think. The Order cannot contain the situation without risking total collapse, and we cannot violate our own established precepts of sovereignity recognition. In short, we can do nothing anyways. Nothing to stop or otherwise change what is happening right now anyways. Rest assured however, there will be a reckoning when the dust settles. Yes, I'm fairly certain, that when all is said and done, the Order will be much smaller.

So we are going to simply stand by and watch as Steel Butterfly destroys itself?

Yes von Beur. You're a military man, so I'll excuse you for not understanding. You see, pride is avery powerful tool. By doing nothing, we allow our compatriots to resolve the issue and then thank us for not interfering. In the meantime, we'll need to solidify our position with the other non-involved parties; there needs to be a unified front somewhere.

Of course m'lady. rattled out von Beur, not really understanding. He got the basic concept, but to be so flippant with something so vital was completely against all of his ingrained instincts.

Lady Jagara waved her hand Alitta?

Yes m'lady?

Would you please show the good admiral out?

Of course m'lady.

von Beur rose from his seat, his creaking knees suddenly reminding him how long he had been sitting. He gave a short, traditional bow by you leave m'lady.

A nod from Lady Jagara released him. Alitta, please give the admiral a tin of my favorite tea on his way out, I'm sure his mistress Sabrina would enjoy it thoroughly.

Of course m'lady.

Cspalla had quickly secured an area in orbit and began landing troops. General John Stevens, CO of the Cspallan Army force assigned to the taskforce, had set up a command center in the Cspallan Embassy in Monarch Heights, a short distance from the Imperial Palace. Troops now surrounded that building, and two gunships hovered overhead. This had been more than sufficient to discourage looters, and it meant that anyone who wished to attack would have to do so in considerable force. Several Cspallan citizens caught in the fighting had already taken refuge in the embassy, feeling safer behind Cspallan guards.

A large room, intended for hosting large formal dinners and the like, had been drafted as the main command center. Portable holo emitters were being installed by technicians, and a battlefield-control comm system was being brought online. General Stevens stood in the center of all of it, barking orders at nearly everyone around him. A young officer, wearing a comm headset tied into the embassy’s system to speak to the orbital ships, turned to address the General.

“Sir! The last troopship reports all troop transports heading down, and request orders for their gunships.”

“Put them on recon with the others for now,” said the General, after a moment of thought. His force had a total of eight gunships. Those craft were covered in anti-personal weapons, and had a few heaver ones as well. They were ideal for defending a location, such as the two that were even now far above his head. They also could be useful for battlefield recon, which was what he had tasked the other six on. The ships could also swoop in and slaughter ground troops, but that would come later.

“Sir,” yelled another officer with a comm unit, “Incoming report from the scout party. They report the Palace safe, at least for now. A few Imperial units seem to have fallen back to guarding it, in addition to the ones that were already there.”

“Fallen back? Damn it!” He was infuriated at the situation. How the hell was he supposed to defend a planet without attacking the main attack forces? It hardly took a graduate of Cspalla’s top military schools to see the hopelessness of his task. Then, inspiration hit. “General Richards! Front and center!”

Brigadier General David Richards, CO of Cspalla’s Third Army Division, ran up. “Sir?”

“I’m sending your division out. Assume a defensive stance around the Imperial Palace.”

“But…sir! Don’t the Imps have that location safe already?”

“Not as safe as we are going to make it. Think, David. We have promises from Tappee and Clairmont that they won’t attack us I sincerely doubt they will go back on that with JIL forces in orbit. So, if we are around the Palace…”

“They won’t attack it! Of course, sir! I’ll get to work.” He ran off and started shouting orders at his subordinates. General Stevens left the other part of his plan unspoken. If they do attack, he thought, I have grounds to engage them.

Deep within the chambers of the Cherubim Advisory Council, a part of the Order of the Seraphim...

A light flickered as a hologram appeared. The technology was marvelous, for if the man had been there the whole time, his not being there wouldn't have been noticed. The true Dr. Julian Rane sat on a starship, many lightyears away.

A representative from Vrak had just suggested that the Order should step in to establish a more stable government within the Orion Sector. This did nothing more than spark a fire which had waited years to erupt.

"I seriously hope you're joking," Dr. Rane said as he removed his sunglasses, setting them down on a table not in view. Almost instantly, they vanished as well. He smiled a sinister sort of smile as he gazed out towards the semi-shocked gathering of important men. "Is it not the Seraphim Order's number one purpose to ensure the sovereignty of all Order members? Is it not your jobs to uphold these standards among your members? You all turned a deaf ear as the horrific cries of human suffering rang out from one of the most prominate corners of your control. You closed your eyes as corruption rose up before you and inhabited your house. Now, my friends, this is no longer your problem, you are no longer in control, and you are no longer welcome. I advise you to leave, for our victory is in sight. We live life aware as you linger in your pathetic handicapped existance. Do not strain relations anymore than what already cannot be reversed. Turn your ships around before they are lost."

The Steel Butterfly representative scowled in anger as he rose.

"If I agree with one thing that invader has said in his rant, it is that this Order, formed to insure the safety and sovereignty of its members, has let its oldest member rot away from within. While Dr. Rane quoted a single statement from the charter, I will name multiple. The Order is to provide for the common defense of all Order members, provide for the common cause and welfare of all Order members, and provide a structure for peaceful relations between all Order members. It has failed in all three," High General James Shockey said as he pointed his finger around the room. "Steel Butterfly was never defended, our welfare was never at the forefront, and while we attempted to deal with a rebellion that we could have easily crushed, two Order nations decide that it is a perfect time to declare an Seraphim Civil War and invade as well. Now, as our Empire is crumbling and our enemy destroying all that we used to have, all the we used to love, the Order decides to come to our rescue gallantly. How honorable of them, to to parade in with swords drawn and banners flying, now that the end is in sight and our enemy celebrates in secret. This Order has failed miserably, and to deal with their ultimate defeat by means of principle, they attempt to cover it up and put a band-aid on their cracked dam of an organization. How can the Order suggest setting up a new government when they cannot even take care of the ones already in existance? How can the Order turn a blind eye to their absolute ineptitude over the past two years? How can you, the members, remain in an alliance with no obvious restraints, no respect for guidelines, and a charter which is trampled on every occasion imaginable? My life and the charter be damned, I cannot allow my nation to exist in an organization full of false promises and fallen angels. I am extremely disturbed and sickened at the scale of this Order's failure."

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p654531.jpg
Dr. Julian Rane,
Attorney at Law and
the Official Liaison to
the Seraphim Order
through the Planet
of Bivens and the
Aeisis Resistance

http://67.18.37.14/43/101/upload/p819.jpg
High General James Shockey
High Commander of the Imperial Military

"Shit." Captain O'Neal exclaimed when the Tactical Armor unit Sigma-Eleven reported what was going on at the Imperial Palace. Cspallan forces had joined the defence ring, along with their own air-support. How the hell they could get thru the Cspallans, O'Neal had no idea but he was glad that he wasnt the one doing that kind of big decisions. He pondered the options. If it came to attacking the palace, and those Cspallan Gunships decided to start shooting the attackers, the Clairmontian forces would need their own air cover here as well. O'Neal consulted the battle-net for updated situation report. There were a total of forty-three Assault Shuttles in the battle, and they all carried heavy load-outs of armaments that could be used to deal with both ground and aerial targets. When adding to that the fact that there were still over three hundred Strike Fighters out there in space with the capability for re-entry if necessary, the gunships would be quickly wiped out if it came to that.

O'Neal hoped it wouldnt come to that, it was bad enough that both Tappee and Clairmont were involved in a civil war against one of the members of the Order of the Seraphim, they REALLY didnt need a war against another as well.

"Allright fellas, take five." He commed to his squad and platoon leaders. The make-shift company stopped, with the troops dispersing to nearby buildings to get out of sight of possible overflying aerospace craft.

=======================================================

Protector's Palace
Irmansul City
Clairmont

"Benjamin, the situation has gotten completely out of hand. Not only is the JiL now within position to actively intervene to the course of events in the Orion-sector, but the Cspallans are allready standing in defense of Steel Butterfly." First Space Lord Caparelli stated calmly to the man seated across the table.

Benjamin Alexander, the Fifth Protector and Sword of Clairmont, regard the First Space Lord carefully before he replied.
"I am aware of that Thomas, and the situation does look bad indeed. Altough i still believe it was the right decision to help the Rebels of the Orion Sector, regardless of the fact that that decision has gotten us to a real mess. However, i wont back down, but we cannot engage either the JiL or the Cspallans, unless they fire upon Admiral Harringtons forces first. There will be repercussions of this afterwards Thomas, but i wont allow this incident to have us leaving the Order, too much was sacrificed for us to reach that point."

The First Space Lord leaned back in his chair, deep in thought. A full minute of silence passed before he spoke again.
"Under these circumstances Benjamin, what should we do?"

The Protector looked at the man and replied calmly.
"Nothing, if we send more forces to the Orion Sector, it will only escalate the situation. The best course of action is now to take no action, and allow the fire consume itself out."

Lieutenant Commander Reid handed over the latest battle report over to Field Commander Jefferys “It would appear the Cspalla has landed grounded forces near their embassy here on Steel Butterfly. Recon report that they are currently encircling the Imperial palace in an attempt to act as a buffer between Imperials and us, what are your orders sir?”

Jeffery knew this would happen, he also could understand Cspalla’s position. Had the roles been reversed and something like what happened in Tatania had occurred in Cspalla and not in Tappee. Then it would be Tappee forces surround the palace in Defence, and Cspalla on the other side, but he tried not to think about the what If”s. Jefferys glanced briefly at the report then handed it back to Reid “It is of no consequence Lieutenant, have the 32nd, and 45th surround the palace, we can play that game too. But under no circumstance are they to launch an offensive against the palace, even if the Cspalla force for some reason stand aside.”

“Sir?” asked Reid a bit confused

“This conflict has as much diplomatic jousting, and it does actual fighting” quickly answered Jefferys “It was never our objective to take the palace, just to make sure that Rebels make it. Politically, and diplomatically we cannot have Tappee forces raising OUR banner over the palace. Other governments, as well as the very people of Steel Butterfly would see us as conquers, and would hold to new government in ill faith. This is ultimately the Rebels fight, they are trying to free these people from oppression, they are the one that must take the palace, raise their flag, they must be the Hero’s. The people need to see this.” Jefferys paused for a moment, and hit a few buttons on his control pad “Besides we have more important fish to fry right now.”

Instantly Reid recognized the building from his intelligence reports “NiMbus” he said rather quietly

“Right, we are going to shift our objective away from the palace and towards NiMbus Centre here on Steel Butterfly” answered Jefferys

A bit of a smile came across Reid’s face “The time for retribution has finally come”

However, Jeffery’s didn’t share Reid’s enthusiasm about launching an assault against NiMbus “Trust me on this Reid, I think that we would have a an easier time taking the palace then NiMbus facility”

“You may be right” said a voice from behind them “They have a private army waiting for us”

The two turned and gave a quick salute “Commander Kobe, I did not realize that you would be joining us here on the field?” said Jefferys apologizing.

“Change of plans” answered Henry coldly “How long until we can be ready to launch an attack?”
Jeffery grabbed the datapad from Reid’s hand then handed it over to Henry “There are few pockets of resistance that must be dealt with first, but we should be good to go with in a four hours.”

“There will be a slight change of plans” added Henry “There was an escape pod the crashed in the building, we are to recover the occupants of that pod as quickly as possible.”

Think for a moment Jefferys remembered hearing something about a pod “Sir a Clairmont detachment seen a pod go down, they are currently moving to recover.”

“Very well” answered Henry “Get me a ship, I need a special forces detachment. Make contact with the Clairmont force, tell them that I am on my way”

“Yes sir”

OOC: Tappee note, Steel informed me that the NiMBUS headquarters is actually on Steel Moon, not on Steel Butterfly. I did not know this when i made my post however and since my troops are on Steel Butterfly, the post was a bit flawed so i corrected it.

OOC: Tappee note, Steel informed me that the NiMBUS headquarters is actually on Steel Moon, not on Steel Butterfly. I did not know this when i made my post however and since my troops are on Steel Butterfly, the post was a bit flawed so i corrected it.

ooc yeah I found that out when I read the Orders board. to make things work we'll just say the intel that my people have is flawed

"So you're not going to order the attack?"

"Of course not. At this point, to do so would be in violation of standing orders."

"Sir... I have no desire to fight through this mess. But we're here to keep our allies afloat!"

"Not so, we are now here only in an observational role. If they can't save themselves, we're not going to prop them up."

"..."

"Executor, I know this isn't an easy situation. But right now it's clear and dry for you. You've already pointed out we don't have enough fuel for heavy maneuvering, and we're outnumbered as well. We really have no choice."

"But why send the majority of the squadron away... shouldn't we sit here, observing?"

"Obviously we do not need an entire IWBS just for observation. We do, however, need to reinforce our forces in Sol."

"Sir, if we could just wait, on the chance that we're called to fight, we wouldn't want to be unable to..."

"I'm afraid not. Sol is more important to the Order than this lost war. You have your orders."

"But - yes sir, Core Commander."

An hour later, the Mars, along with fully three-fourths of the JIL warships in the Orion Sector, powered up and headed outsystem, putting distance between themselves and the gravity well of the massive sun. Warsawki sails were configured in a clean, rehearsed performance.

Within four hours the Order of the Seraphim maintained only the barest presence in the system. Broadstreet himself, as well as a few dozen warships, remained - but the potential firepower of the bulk of the battle squadron now returned home, to Sol.

[OOC: Bump just so you guys know I'm still alive...sorry about the lack of time lately...]

[OOC: Ok...it's time for an explanation. Second year of college started off rough so I decided to focus more on my studies. When I got that under control, my uncle died, and then two days later my other uncle died. They were both young. Then, a little over a week ago, I had reconstructive knee surgery on my right knee. I had suffered multiple football and even a baseball injury from high school...all on the same stupid knee. Now, I am hoping to have more time as soon as I get caught up in my classes because of the time I missed to recover. Be back soon.]

"We need air support now!" General Valkare shouted over the comm link. "Co-ordinates x147 y6523 z1294!"

Almost instantly the starfighters speeded by, vanquishing the soldiers Valkare had seen on the horizon and setting the buildings ablaze. Seconds past as the young general concentrated his gaze forward, his hands steady on his PHAR.

The cold air told him that something was wrong. The pressurized ODIN armor kept temperature regulated. Reaching behind himself and touching his shoulder, Valkare winced as his filthy glove came in contact with the open wound. Had he not realized he had been injured?

"MEDIC!" Valkare shouted, motioning the man towards his position. "Take care of this..."

"Sir," The medic replied. "You need more medical attention. It's bleeding too bad for just a..."

"Close it up, damnit!" The general ordered, anxious to move on. "I don't care how!"

The medic nodded and pulled out the pad. It was then heated and pressed into Valkare's bleeding shoulder. The general held his breath as the pad melted into his skin, successfully blocking the blood and closing the wound. Then, to maintain the ODIN seal, or to add insult to injury as Valkare was concerned, a technician welded a new plate onto the General's back as pressure was restored within his suit.

Moving his arm in a circle and then cursing himself for doing so, Valkare turned back on his comm link that he never had turned off and ordered his men foward...into the flames.

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p640690.jpg
General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

Making a final check on his combat armour Henry grabbed his rifle and began to make his way towards the shuttle.

“Sir!” protested Jefferys as Henry was about to board the shuttle “You sure this is the right thing to do, the occupants of the escape pod are more then likely dead” Jeffery liked to think of himself as a realist, he had always relied on the odds. In truth odds were those poor unfortunate souls were already dead. The battle had already claimed too many lives, and he needed as many soldiers as he could get.

“Pilot take us up” barked Henry ignoring Jefferys. He was so blinded at the moment to care what anyone else thought

"Lay down a base of fire! Keep their damn heads down!"

Captain Michael O'Neal shouted his orders furiously over the comm. His neat operation had not gone as well as he had planned. The idea of a flanking attack behind the Imperials had sounded good on paper, but the Imperials seemingly had not liked the attempt and had counter-maneuvered to lock O'Neals force in place.

As it was, they were surrounded. The two buildings they controlled gave O'Neals troops a good field of fire at any Imperial forces trying to force their way into his positions, but in the end, their numbers would most likely simply overwhelm him.

He laid down another steady stream of fire from his gravgun, the ammo feeder line from his backback moving rapidly as it fed hundreds of rounds to the weapon every second. Below and above him on the other floors of the building, other ACS troopers were doing the same. Dozens of lines of silver lightning shot out of the building windows, lashing at any Imperial columns attempting to proceed over the open to their positions.

It didnt look good. They were low on ammunition, and the casualties were mounting as the sheer weight of fire withered down O'Neals ragtag company. He had tried to call for air-support but for little use, the Imperials were jamming their communications and as such, none of that help was coming. O'Neal also had little idea of how the battle was going overall, he knew generally that the Fleet Strike forces were advancing, and that the Imperial defenses were giving away. But it was slow progress, and every meter of Steel Butterfly's ground was being bought with blood.

Before he could continue his course of thought, a large beam weapon carved its way thru the wall, disintegrating Pvt. Reilly's upper body completely. The legs and parts of the hips collapsed down on the floor.

O'Neal turned his gaze away, avoiding to look at the heap that had been one of his troopers. It did not help that the guy had been only twenty-four. He sighed heavully and called up the tactical 3D map of the immidiate area. His forces, or what was left of them, were scattered over a small area with the two Saber MBT's entrenched behind heavy cover, and the one TA they had was zipping between cover and laying down fire as it went.

They would not hold for long now. He knew that the Imperials were preparing for another push, and this time they would propably overrun his positions. He was about to call new orders for his company as the comm crackled to life.

"Hydra-Six, this is Scimitar-Two-Four. Please mark your positions."

O'Neal allowed himself an immense relief and sent the co-ordinates indicating the positions where his men were situated, and additionally all the location information he knew of the enemy.

Seconds passed before the voice came back,

"Acknowledged Hydra-Six. Scimitar-Two-Four incoming, two-two seconds."

O'Neal hunkered down the best he could, and called for his men to do the same. As seconds passed, he began to hear a sound, it was like a terrible howling. The sound of the banshee's, he thought with a predatory glee.

The flight of six Heavy Strike Fighters slashed over the enemy positions while simultaneously releasing tens of tons of ordnance. Snowflake clusters, the brutally effective anti-personnel leaflet bombs, Javelin MIRV bombs, the self-guided Anti-Armor munitions. And more. The immidiate area around O'Neals positions was engulfed in a firestorm. Edifices came apart as the concussion and hellish fire of the bombs tore them apart.

And then the fighters came back. Their cannons spewing hyper-velocity rounds at the rubble, each round causing a large explosion in its own right. They were determined to scourge the area clean of any sight of the Imperials who had once been there.

As they finished their pass, the fighters commenced a steep climb up to orbit to return to their carriers in order to re-arm and re-fuel.

O'Neal watched them go, and only twenty minutes after the fighters had disappeared, the figures of twelve ten meter tall bipedal combat machines marched to the open, their weapons scanning for any sign of threat. A full five hundred meters around the two buildings, there was only a field of rubble and collapsed skeletons of buildings.

Behind the twelve TA's, human figures began appearing. First only a few dozen, but then hundreds.

O'Neals comm crackled to life once more.

"Taurus-Actual to Hydra-Six, the cavalry has arrived."

O'Neal could only chuckle at the remark, but as he checked his casualties, his mood turned gloomy once more. Of the original over two hundred men he had had, only one hundred and thirty two remained. He had suffered nearly fifty percent casualties during his little escapade. And this was not the end of it, hundreds more would die before this battle would be over.

His gloomy thoughts were interrupted as a heavy palm slammed him in the back. Thru the armor of the ACS suit, it barely registered at all but it had the desired effect. O'Neal's suit speakers let out the cheery voice of Sergeant Major Ernesto Pappas.

"Cap, I think that its time for us to get some damn hot chow about now. Those fancy Marine boyos can handle the fighting for an hour or so."

O'Neal could do nothing but feel to oblige, it had been a long time since he had had his last good meal, and the advancing forces had brought with them a field mess.

"An army marches with its stomach" He recalled someone once saying.

"Corporal!" Eric screamed, a deep cough cutting off his voice. His throat was raw, but he couldn't worry about such things...especially at a time like this. "CORPORAL!"

Commander Eric Vinzer crawled over towards the corporal's location, keeping his head down. "Corporal," Eric commanded as he put his hand on the corporal's shoulder. "We need support there!" Eric extended his finger towards a gap between two falled buildings. Looking down, the corporal did not reply. Still holding on to the man's shoulder, Eric shook it, releasing the man's head which rolled downhill a foot then stopped. A projectile flew over Eric's head, however it bounced off a wall and came back at him. Standing and running instantly, Eric was blown through a metal wall and into the entrance of a building across the street.

The burning candles lining the walls glimmered off the broken glass scattered across the floor. Eric breathed deep twice, coughed, then realized that his ODIN seal had amazingly not been broken. The flames, now unguarded by their glass holsters, had spread throughout the lower floor, and the smoke filling the room was only cut by the light in Eric's hand. Limping out, Commander Vinzer collapsed among the bodies as he drifted off to sleep.

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p641538.jpg
Commander Eric Vinzer
XO of the 2nd Marines

"Captain?"

McNeill looked up, his vision blurry for whatever reason, at the man who had addressed him.

"Charles..." Captain McNeill replied, sighing. "We...we really did a number on 'em...didn't we?"

"It's not over yet, Captain," Lt. Cmdr. Charles Trinneer responded, reaching down to give the captain a hand. Captain McNeill grasped the hand firmly and lifted himself to his feet.

"Where are we?" Captain McNeill asked, stepping outside and looking around.

"I haven't the slightest clue," Trinneer said, checking his broken scanner just in case it had decided to work once more. It didn't. "But I know where we're going..."

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p250.jpg
Captain Thomas McNeill
CO of the Outlander

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p639294.jpg
Lt. Commander Charles Trinneer
XO of the Outlander

They had been patrolling that sector for some time, and hadn't seen anything until now. Captain DeAngelo White nodded at his XO, Lieutenant Commander Kyle Bruno. "For the Empire," the Captain whispered.

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

Joseph broke the silence. It had gone on long enough. "Mark where the hell are we going?"

"The palace...it's not far now..." Mark replied, his eyes not shifting from their foward gaze.

"Mark come on..." Joseph complained. "There are three of us!"

"I'm glad you realized that, Lieutenant..."

Joseph shook his head and looked at Bivens. The business man and politician seemed more comfortable with a PHAR than Joseph would have guessed, but he reminded himself that guns weren't limited to poor people.

"What do we hope to achieve?" Bivens asked of Lt. Cmdr. Andrews. Mark stopped and turned around.

"...we're going to find a way to end this...now..." Mark replied. "We'll get in...and you will reason with him. If not, we'll kill him."

"The Emperor?" Joseph exclaimed.

"Surely you aren't that naive...or foolish," Bivens responded, giving Andrews a shocked look. "Surely you can't think that we can just barge in there and 'reason' with our enemy."

"I was leaning towards the latter..."

"...this is madness," Joseph continued. "Are you twelve?"

"No," Mark replied. "However I am your superior..."

"Damnit," Bivens shouted. He didn't want to say it, but something had to be done. "I'm not going to let you do this, Commander. I'm not going to let you throw your life, or anyone else's life away...and I'll be damned if I let you toss my future to the wolves just to try and achieve an impossible revenge upon a falled figurehead not even responsible..."

"Shut your mo..."

"...for your goddamned parent's murder!" Bivens screamed, and Mark was silenced.

The three men stared at each other, emotions running wild. It was then that the skies opened up, and the white flakes cascaded unto the ground and their shoulders. The snow was fast, and a small layer quickly powdered over the broken remains of the city. Unprotected from the cold, they would quite possibly freeze in the upcoming dusk, but worse than they...they now could be tracked.

"Then what do we do?" asked Mark as he angrily fought back the liquid in his eyes. "Sit around and wait? Fight worthless battles? Die worthless deaths?"

"Mark..."

"Or do we run? Do we hide? Do we cower out of sight until this is over?"

"You're not fighting for the dead, Mark," Bivens said, flakes falling from his hair as he shook his head. "You're fighting for the living. Alone we're nothing...but together...with the others..."

"So we should have went the other way?" Mark asked. "We should have just followed the soldiers?"

"I..." Bivens began. All around him was white as the snow covered up everything that was bad. The city was beautiful once more, the mask of snow covering the wretched face of a broken empire. Dave could no longer hear the bombs, no longer see the carnage...and yet the pain...hadn't left. "I don't know..." Here he was, one of the most powerful men in the sector, and he was without a clue of how to press on.

...and so the silence returned...

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

"Captain...there are three of them..."

"Are you sure one is David Bivens, Commander?" Captain White whispered back.

"Yessir!"

"Then he's a criminal. He is wanted for the death of Admiral Jerry Dratsab and is to be arrested."

"Sir?"

"Take him out...silenced projectiles...make it quick..."

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

Bivens walked between the soldiers, looking left and right as the three of them passed building after building of abandoned city. The poorly-aimed shot wasn't heard, but it was most definately felt, as the bullet passed through the inside of Dave's right knee and out the other.

The two soldiers hit the ground along with their leader, returning fire while blind among the snow and steel. Wiping the red snow off his face, Dave felt himself being pulled towards shelter. He saw Joseph fall before him, only to bounce up and continue towards the building. The planet-wide blizzard was thickening in the darkness, and it was nearly impossible to see, but scanners were a luxury that the Imperials had and that the trio of rebels were lacking.

There was snow within the building, on all levels, but Mark pulled Bivens down to the protected basement with Joseph following close, holding his head in his hands. Mark quickly propped Dave's leg up, but found that there was no bullet to remove and the both of them tried to stop the bleeding.

Joseph, on the other hand, had taken his bandana off and pressed it up against the left side of his head as the blood began to soak through and run between his fingers and down his arm. Noticing what was happening, Mark shouted Joseph's name and ran over towards him.

"I...got grazed..." Joseph said. "The wounds not what I'm worried about...it...it's bleeding pretty bad..."

"I...I'm going to get some snow and use it as ice," Mark said as he quickly ran up the steps, only to stop in his tracks and drop to the ground as he reached the main floor. The Imperials were among them. The fools had gathered too close together, Mark thought to himself, and he felt in his pocket for the weapon that he needed - a plasma grenade. Quickly, Mark scanned the soldiers for rank and once he determined who the captain was, dropped him in a single shot to his unprotected neck.

The explosion from the grenade was not enough to damage ODIN Armor, however the scalding hot plasma easily melted through the metal onto the skin...and it didn't stop there. Mark had sent a whole troop into chaos and resumed his fire as the soldier's screams echoed through the empty city.

Two plasma grenades later and a countless number of shots that were responded to, Mark returned to the basement, a half melted first aid kit in hand, and two people to save. He worked through the night to stop both men's bleeding, but he wouldn't know until the sun rose if he had succeeded or not. Helpless, alone, and freezing, Mark faded off to sleep...

http://67.18.37.14/129/44/upload/p357.jpg
Dave Bivens
President/CEO of Bivens Co.

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p639933.png
Lt. Commander Mark Andrews
"Raptor Zero"
15th Fighter Squadron

http://67.18.37.14/129/44/upload/p360.jpg
Lieutenant Joseph Frost
Vehicle Specialist/Sniper,
1st Marines

http://67.18.37.14/129/44/upload/p127.gif
Captain DeAngelo White
106th Mobile Infantry

http://67.18.37.14/129/44/upload/p354.jpg
Lieutenant Commander Kyle Bruno
106th Mobile Infantry

Nemerov stood on his cold, candlelit balcony as if he was daring an enemy with a good or simply a lucky shot to remove him from his failure. Leadership, life...he was miserable at both...and this wretched world deserved better. He smiled a strange smile at the though that even his hopes rested on this "foolish" resistance. Nemerov had been assured some time ago that this would be dealt with quickly. Of course...most of those people were now dead.

Murder or not, the end would be over soon. Death had been waiting for him ever since his second betrayal, and Dr. Ackerman would have it no other way. Even if Nemerov had played the game, had went along with the charade, he would have been killed. He only had remained in power for the people. His face was meant to assure them...to lie to them...that everything was as it should be. No one was fooled any longer.

The Emperor was sad that this was the only way. But only a revolution could completely rid the Orion Sector of its filth, and his once glorious home deserved no less. Now, as his palace was protected by foreign forces, Alexander waited idle among the falling snow as he felt his lack of sleep and lack of anti-toxin catching up to him.

"No," he told himself. He wanted to be awake until the end, to cherish the last of freedom's short stay in his life. Nemerov had so much to tell, so much to show...so many lies to reverse and so many secrets to uncover for everyone to see...but he hadn't the time...nor the energy anymore. He was a king captive in his own castle, a star held hostage by the planets around him, and all he could do was hope that his logs and records would be saved.

Nemerov's light was dimming, and he was no longer the brightest star in the sky...but instead a star like any other star...quickly dying in the timeline of eternity. The snow was chilling, as each flake reminded him of the life he still held on to. When was the last time he watched the snow, or cared about such things? He could not remember...and it saddened him that he never took the time to wonder at such obvious things.

...what else had he missed out on?

http://67.18.37.14/43/101/upload/p1.gif
Emperor Alexander Nemerov
Star Empire of Steel Butterfly,
In the Orion Sector which includes:
Steel Isle, Steel Moon,
CTaNbHaR Eabo4Ka, XIII,
Aeisis, Bivens, Esthar VIII
Orion Sector Alliance Premier,
Order of the Seraphim

http://67.18.37.14/129/44/upload/p425.jpg

The Apparition, newly refitted, sat ready among the stars in wait for its prey. At any moment, the greatest ship ever built would be ready to strike...but for now it remained still and silent.

Within the great flying fortress, Sky Marshall Michael Zephyr pondered his next move. Without his information, he could not make the decision that he needed to...but it would be coming soon...all in good time.

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p659091.jpg

Nearby, a Zabraki Zantetzuken-Class Dreadnaught had come into view thanks to the rotation of an uninhabited planet. Stolen from the Zabrak, the Dreadnaught, dubbed the Vymmah Yhkam, was now the second most powerful ship in the Seperatist fleet.

This was the information Zephyr had needed, and a meeting was set up. The commander of the Vymmah Yhkam teleported to the Apparition.

"Welcome Colonel," Sky Marshal Zephyr said to the man as he walked through the doors into the conference room. Captain Apakoh stood as well, but instead saluted the man who was his superior. The colonel put him at ease. "I trust you have good news," Zephyr continued.

"The ship is in full working order, sir," Colonel William Sharp replied. "All the technology, 4500 Renzokuken Fighters..."

"...and her name?" Zephyr asked.

"The Vee-mah Yah-kam," Sharp responded, pronoucing the ancient language slowly. "It means 'Fallen Angel,' sir."

"Well done, Colonel," Zephyr smiled.

"You know my distaste for piracy..." the colonel continued, but Zephyr simply shook his head. There was no time for morals.

"Was your other objective achieved?" Zephyr asked. Colonel Sharp nodded.

"The Imperial are loosing...the Empire falling...but NiMBUS hasn't faltered yet. A rift is beginning to form between the Empire and the Corporation, however..."

"Then we will support the Empire, Colonel..."

"...and if the Empire surrenders?"

"Then, Colonel, we will support whoever opposes NiMBUS."

"Sir?" Captain Apakoh questioned. "Fight along side the resistance?"

"Captain our goal from the beginning was to restore the Empire," Zephyr explained with a stern tone. "However...we made a near-fatal error. You see Captain, Colonel...this resistance is doing the exact same thing. They are purging the Empire of its cancer, that bastard corporation named after the clouds. Only then can the Empire be restored."

"Colonel Sharp," Captain Apakoh asked. "How far along with the invasion is this resistance?"

"They have control over 86% of the capital planet," Col. Sharp replied.

"My god..."

"Intelligence indicates that soon they will be advancing on the Imperial Palace. Once that is taken, the only step left for them to take is towards Steel Moon...and the NiMBUS Headquarters," Col. Sharp explained.

"Then that is what we prepare for," Zephyr ordered. "Captain, Colonel, ready your men...this is it..."

Captain Lusec Apakoh and Colonel William Sharp both stood, saluted, and walked out the doors.

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p61.jpg
Sky Marshall Michael Zephyr
Former Commander,
Imperial Fleet and Marines

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p659056.png
Colonel William Sharp
15th Imperial Marines

http://67.18.37.14/129/44/upload/p126.jpg
Captain Lusec Apakoh
81st Imperial Marines

With the up most skill the pilot of the drop brought the dropship over a near by building, the right wing missed the top of the building by mere inches. Trying to use the surrounding as cover the pilot put the craft in to a momentary dive coming a few feet from the ground, they were now almost invisible to enemy radar. Like a snake moving through a maze, the dropship cut through the now empty streets.

As the craft lurched hard to the left Henry glanced at the crono display in the left hand corner of his helmets HUD display, it now had been several hours since Emily’s Escape pod had crashed. With every passing moment chance of her survival lessened, as quickly as the thought has entered his mind, he put the thought of his head. Emily was ok, he could feel it with the very fibre of his being.

“Five minutes until ETA” yelled the pilot, warning everyone that soon thing would get much more interesting.

With the pilots words Henry snapped back to reality. Pressing a small button on the side of his rifle, Henry’s pulse rifle became alive, ready to bring death to those that got between him and Emily. But for the moment all he could wait was, and the wait seemed like an eternity.

Finally arriving at their destination the pilot caused the ship to hover a few feet off the ground. With tactical precision, the result of years of training, the occupants made their way out of the craft within only a few seconds.

Those first few that made their way off the craft jumped from the ship safety. In what appeared to be a single motion they landed on the ground. Tucked into a roll coming, and came out of the roll knelling with their rifle drawn, scanning the area for any signs of the enemy.

“Area secure” said one of the men.

Henry gave a nod of approval, and the strike teams got to their feet a began their long journey towards the remains of the escape pod.

For the most part their movement were unimpeded; Henry could only guess that the remained of the imperial forces had fallen back to the imperial palace in an attempt to make a heroic last stand there. However, whatever resistance was encountered was quickly and efficiently dealt with.

After some time the escape pod finally came into view. The sight of the pod seemed to add unknown energy to the team, sweeping the area for hostile the team broke into a sprint, and in the end secured the area.

Henry could feel his stomach turn as he approached the pod. There were so many possible outcomes for what he was about to discover, most of them ended with him finding Emily dead, but no matter what happened he had to know what had happened to the woman that he loved, after all there was always hope.

With some hesitation he opened the pods hatch. Air was the only thing that now filled the twisted remains of the pods, he knew now that at least she had survived the impact.

“Sir I think there is something that you should see” said a voice from behind Henry.

Henry turned and followed the soldier, the soldier lead Henry to a nearby hallway, the hallway was filled with blaster marks and several bodies. The significance of the sceen was not lost on Henry, this is where Emily and young ensign had made a stand, but from what Henry could see they were cornered. However, their bodies where not here, and that could only mean one thing, they had been taken alive. Thing now had become much more complicated.

Henry flipped open a small keypad on his right arm. Via his Helmets HUD display it showed his current location compared to the location of the Imperial Palace. Henry had one last hope, which someone in the palace would know where Emily was. If they didn’t he would rip the place apart looking for her.

“Captian” proclaimed Henry “Gather the troops, we’re heading for the palace.”

http://img.atpictures.com/odonnell/tn_odonnell012.jpg
Henry Kobe

Allison's shiver startled him. Had he not noticed that it was snowing? With his optical implant, darkness no longer impared his vision, however his eye was not currently set to heat vision. Fatigued, Alexei stumbled onwards, with Allison faithfully a few steps behind.

By the time they had reached Monarch Heights, the level of the Imperial Palace, Alexei could barely move. His face and his hair was frozen, and his legs slowly inched along though the deep snow. Allison had been crying, Alexei realized, for her tears were frozen to her cheeks.

"I think we can rest here," Alexei muttered, pointing to what appeared to be a shelter. Alexei started a fire and used his and Allison's damaged armor as a door to their metal lean-to. There was enough air flowing through the shelter to allow the smoke to escape, although Alexei would have much rather kept it in and kept all the cold air out.

Tomorrow he would arrive at the palace, he told himself as he stared through a hole at the home and main office of the Emperor. Sure it was surrounded, but Alexei was a former member of the Imperial Guard. He knew his own way in.

Alexei was truely unsure of what he was going to do. All he knew was that Dr. Ackerman needed to die, and for some reason Alexei felt that he was the only man who could achieve such a victory.

He realized that Allison's arms were around him and as he laid down she rested her head on his chest. Her skin was cold, so Alexei wrapped both of them tightly in the blanket. His eyes flickered then slowly closed, and once again he returned to his nightmares.

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p641537.jpg
Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p220.jpg
Ensign Allison Wilson
Helmsman of the Outlander

"Lets go men!"

What?

"I don't want these bodies here until spring!"

Leon?

Eric's eyes darted open, instantly awakening his mind, and his pain. He quickly tried to move, but he found that he couldn't. His vision had gone completely white.

"Captain...most suits are frozen shut...we can't identify the dead..."

"Then load them up and we'll thaw them later. These boys have mothers. They deserve to know their boys died during a victory."

Victory? Eric thought. We won...we pressed fowards through the last big defense until the palace...

"Have you identified Commander Vinzer yet, Corporal?"

"Sir, no, sir!" The corporal replied. "Commander Vinzer is still listed as missing in action."

Eric was shocked. They thought he had died. Again he tried to move, again he tried to see...both he failed at both.

"CAPTAIN!" he screamed, and his shouts were followed by silence.

"You hear that Corporal?" Captain Williams asked. The corporal nodded. "Find that officer now!"

Eric could feel his heart racing. Where was he? What happened to him? The shovel struck his midsection and he let out a grunt as the previously dented armor pressed into his abdomen. He squeezed his shoulders, trying despritely to bring his arms together, and the more he pressed the looser he seemed to be getting. The corporal pulled him out and his vision shifted from white to black.

"Captain it's frozen to him," the corporal reported. Leon nodded.

"Get this man to some shelter. We need to warm him up," Captain Leon Williams ordered. "But do it slow...we can't send him into shock."

http://67.18.37.14/129/44/upload/p341.jpg
Captain Leon Williams
Leader of the 2nd Marines

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p641538.jpg
Commander Eric Vinzer
XO of the 2nd Marines

When Mark had awaken, he realized that he was no longer cold. Looking around, he saw Joseph over an open fire in the building's basement and Bivens slowly drinking some liquid.

"You saved our lives, Mark," Joseph said, not looking up from the fire.

"How you feeling?" Mark asked no one in particular.

"I'm fine," replied Joseph, who then nodded towards the bundled up Bivens.

"With the painkillers I feel absolutely nothing," Dave responded. "But just looking at it tells me that it's no good. My knee's going to need to be reconstructed." Bivens sighed. "It seems this puts a damper on your plans, Mark. I've been working on a way to communicate. They could pick me up and..."

"No," Mark replied, cutting him off. "It'd give away our position."

"Mark," Joseph said, walking over to a part of the basement that was unlit. "I found a unit here...I'm not sure if it runs...but it fits four..."

Mark stood up, grabbed a log out of the fire for light, and walked over to where Joseph stood. Indeed, there was an old snowspeeder in the basement, the kind that actually touched the snow as it moved along. Climbing inside, Mark was shocked to find the powercells still mostly full.

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p659155.png

Starting it up, Mark checked the components. The core was stable and charged, life support was online, the runners and impulse engines came online without hesitation, and the three phase cannons were listed as armed and ready.

Mark climbed out and took a look around the basement. Behind the unit was a set of large doors, but they were snowed in and opened to the outside.

"Joseph," Mark ordered. "Help me get Mr. Bivens onto this thing. We're gonna have to blast our way out." Joseph nodded, and the two of them carefully carried Dave towards and into the snowspeeder. After closing the hatch, Mark took the helm and Joseph manned the rear gun.

Mark pulled the craft as far forward as he could, before Joseph effortlessly blasted through the thin doors and packed snow. Mark pulled the unit out backwards, turned it around, and headed it towards the palace.

Perhaps they would get there on time...

http://67.18.37.14/129/44/upload/p357.jpg
Dave Bivens
President/CEO of Bivens Co.

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p639933.png
Lt. Commander Mark Andrews
"Raptor Zero"
15th Fighter Squadron

http://67.18.37.14/129/44/upload/p360.jpg
Lieutenant Joseph Frost
Vehicle Specialist/Sniper,
1st Marines

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p653910.jpg

The morning sun cast shadows upon his face as Nemerov stared out the window. He had returned inside several hours ago as the cold was beginning to bother him. Surely that was a sign of a bigger problem within.

The beauty was unimaginable. Every four years, a blanket of snow would fall upon the planet, casting the planet-wide capital city into a year-long winter. Outside, there seemed little wrong with Nemerov's fallen world, and as Nemerov opened his door onto his balcony, he wanted nothing more than a chance to walk once again in that snow...his snow.

Reaching down, Nemerov scooped some off his balcony into his palm, but the cold no longer sent chills through his arm. No, this temperature no longer had any effect on him. His body was dying, without his mind's permission or knowledge.

Sensing company, Nemerov turned only to be greeted by a silenced pistol almost touching his nose. Letting out a sound, Nemerov was smacked by the gun before being dragged back inside.

The room's response system had been disengaged, and now as Nemerov stared into the eyes of the man across from him, he instantly knew who he was.

"Alexei..." Nemerov muttered, his words obviously catching the man off guard.

"Shut up," Alexei said fiercly yet in monotone. Grabbing the Emperor by his collar, Alexei threw him up against the wall and then pulled the PHAR from behind his back.

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p653913.jpg

"Where is he?" Alexei demanded, his optical implant glaring into the Emperor.

"I...I don't know..." the Emperor replied. Alexei ran the barrel of the weapon into Nemerov's forehead, causing an instant wound. Nemerov seemed not to reply to the pain.

"I'm going to give you one...last...chance..." Alexei ordered calmly yet with a fire in his eyes unmatched by any other living being.

"He left some time ago," Nemerov responded, whiping his forehead. Was he bleeding? "For Steel Moon...NiMBUS headquarters..."

"Give me one good reason why I should let you live," Alexei asked of the Emperor. Nemerov returned Alexei's gaze without blinking.

"Because you have questions still unanswered," Nemerov replied. "Questions I know the answers to..."

Nemerov's response struck a chord with his captor, and Alexei paused once again. Nemerov reached into his pocket and pulled out a chip, which he handed to Alexei.

"Within this are my logs...and your answers..." Nemerov said, closing Alexei's fist around the chip. "Now, Commander...you have no reason to allow my life to continue."

With his eyes not shifting from his prey, Alexei slowly lowered his weapon. He motioned to Allison to bring his jacket to him. Once his jacket was in hand, Alexei tore the pips from the collar and the stripes from the sleeves.

"I do this alone..." Alexei said, picking up his gun once more. "Without affiliation or any other sort of political motivation. This is revenge...nothing more..."

"Then you're not the man I hoped you would be..." Nemerov muttered, shaking his head. Alexei was not pleased and smacked Nemerov upside the head with the butt of his rifle. Nemerov fell to the floor where he remained, seemingly uncaring of the wounds that were inflicted upon him.

"Who do you think I would be, Alexander?" Alexei questioned, his voice slowly raising in tone and agressiveness. "Why else do you think I would be here? Because of you, I was alone my entire life...and even now...when I can depend on myself and make my own choices...I'm still alone. Because of you, I was taken in by a military academy...and taught my whole life how to defend people. My mother tried to defend me, Alexander. She tried to defend me from my father, and she tried to defend me from you. They killed her...right in front of me...and then you killed them...all of them. All of my family...and you left me to die."

"Alexei you were damned from your birth," Nemerov fired back. "Your father was a mobster...and your mother worked for NiMBUS!"

"SHUTUP!" Alexei screamed, beating Nemerov with the butt of his PHAR, but Nemerov would not be silenced, not now. "My mother did not..."

"She created you Alexei," Nemerov explained. "...granted that was my fault as well I guess, for she created you through me...but you were an experiment...and she had to see it through!"

"ENOUGH!" Alexei wailed, his hands shaking. "My mother loved me...and damnit you're not my father!"

"Of course she loved you, Alexei," Nemerov continued. "You were her ticket to the big time...you were her finest creation. Dr. Ackerman was most proud!"

"STOP IT!" Alexei screamed as he felt his legs start to buckle and sway.

"Genetically Alexei, you are of my family..."

"NO!"

"...your father found out about your mother...about you...and he killed her for it. He was about to kill you, but I had promised Dr. Ackerman that I would keep the experiments a secret. My agents finished him off...and the rest of them. You were sent away so that you would be able to live a normal life...Dr. Ackerman believed you were dead...but I couldn't kill my own...my own son..." Nemerov paused, for Alexei was now weeping on the floor with his head in his hands. "I...I'm sorry...I didn't know how else to save you..."

"W-why?" Alexei asked, his voice shaking. Allison, who was scared up to this point, put her arms around his neck to calm him down. She had tears in her eyes as well.

"Alexei he had me," Nemerov said. "I was infected on purpose...and if I didn't do what he wanted, I wasn't given the anti-toxin. I don't have much longer to...to live..."

"An...experiment?" Alexei said, looking up. He was no longer crying.

"I didn't know...I loved her..."

"...and now...now as we near the end...you're just going to leave again..." Alexei muttered. "...now when I need someone most...I'm again all alone..."

"Look around you Alexei," Nemerov said. "Look at the impact you have on people. Look at how many people care."

Alexei brought his hands up to touch Allison's arm which was still tightly wrapped around him.

"I love you Alexei," Allison said. "I owe everything to you..."

But Alexei couldn't say it back. Not now, not here.

"Don't fight for yourself, Alexei," Nemerov continued. He paused and closed his eyes momentarily. "...and don't fight for the dead...fight for the living...fight for those with a future. That's what it's going to take, Alexei. As long as that monster remains...suffering will continue. Give the Empire a break, Alexei. Let it rest. It has been suffering for so long..."

"But me, damnit?" Alexei asked. "I don't want this job...I never asked for this responsibility..."

"Alexei," Nemerov replied. "Heros don't become heros for doing what they want, but instead for doing what they must do."

"But why must I be the hero?"

"Because you are capable!" Nemerov roared, his life momentarily rushing back into his dying shell. "There are millions of people out there yearning to be in your position. They would give everything they could to insure that our people have a future. But they can't, Alexei...you can!"

"I don't even know what I am...how can I possibly...?"

"You are my son," Nemerov said, placing his hand on Alexei's shoulder. "That alone gives me faith in you..."

Silent, Alexei stood and picked up his gun once more. He wiped his eyes and then put on his trenchcoat.

"Go now," Nemerov ordered. "Take my ship, go now don't wait. Leave me here, don't let them find you."

"I'll be waiting for you," Allison said as she made Nemerov her captive in preperation for the Resistance's entrance.

"GO NOW!" Nemerov screamed, pointing towards the door.

"I..." Alexei said before he exited. "I'll come back for you..."

Alexei smiled to himself. She really did care about him, and he was amazed that it took someone else to point it out. His emotions were in turmoil, his thoughts made no sense, and he wished deeply that he would wake up from this nightmare any minute...but it was real this time.

It felt as if Nemerov had told him something that he had known all his life...but Nemerov's words went against everything Alexei had ever known. Allison was there, waiting for the leaders of the Resistance who would shortly find out about his mission. She'd wait for him...but in his mind Alexei couldn't help thinking that he wouldn't return.

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p641537.jpg
Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p220.jpg
Ensign Allison Wilson
Helmsman of the Outlander

http://67.18.37.14/43/101/upload/p1.gif
Emperor Alexander Nemerov
Star Empire of Steel Butterfly,
In the Orion Sector which includes:
Steel Isle, Steel Moon,
CTaNbHaR Eabo4Ka, XIII,
Aeisis, Bivens, Esthar VIII
Orion Sector Alliance Premier,
Order of the Seraphim

It had taken the strike team much longer then they had originally anticipated, no thanks to the snow, in their quest to reach the palace. Ice had formed on their armour; the gyros motors that helped give them their strength had become sluggish. Only fortunate thing that the team had going was temperature control system in the suit kept them warm and rather comfortable.

A white gentle peace had fallen over the land; despite the cold Henry found it rather soothing. Snow had covered all signs the pervious battle, and now the streets where now empty.

As the team neared the palace they took a defensive position in a nearby building, in an attempt to find a way in.

The battle had taken its toll, the Palace defences had either withered away, or the guards had abandoned their posts. Either way Henry did not care as long as he could get into the palace. After staking out the palace for awhile a route into the place became apparent, without hesitation Henry ordered the team in.

Moving in unison, the team made their way into the palace, once inside they broke of into two man teams in order to cover more ground, and remained undetected for as long as possible. Unlike the other Henry’s destination was Emperor Nemerov personal quarters.

Ignoring his own personal safety Henry rushed through the many corridors of the palace until he rounded the corner he saw a lone man rushing off to another area of the palace. However, Henry gave the man no attention, he was to close now to be distracted.

He brought to his gun to his shoulder, and came around the corner only to his target laying there in a weakened state, but Nemerov was not alone a lone woman who looked visible upset.

“Were is she!” barked Henry never taking his sights off Nemerov. Suddenly he realized that at least to Nemerov he wasn’t making much sense. “An escape pod crashed near here, what happened to the occupants” corrected Henry “You better pray that they are alive.”

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Henry Kobe

Nemerov had often heard of one's past coming back to haunt him, yet never had he heard of it happening in such a physical form. Within an hour of each other, two vigilantes had come for him, in his final moments, both demanding something he could not give them. His so called power was gone, and there was no giving it back.

"I haven't heard anything about it," Nemerov responded. He had talked down the first one after all. "But if my soldiers got to her, and she was of any importance, she's already dead. If NiMBUS got to her, and they let her live, she'd be on Steel Moon."

Using his fingers, Nemerov opened a mid-air display from his place on the floor. Searching the database, he found no mention of a foreign pod with a female occupant being recovered in Monarch Heights. By spinning his finger in a circular motion, he showed Henry the display.

"My men would have reported it," Nemerov stated, staring Henry straight in the eyes to show his honesty and seriousness.

"A ship left here about a half hour ago," Allison spoke up. "A man...alone...to try and defeat NiMBUS in Steel Moon. I'm sure he could use your help."

Her suggestion was not part of his plan, and Nemerov shot Alexei's lover a harsh look. Alexei didn't need distractions...and these men didn't need to die on their chase. Nevertheless, Alexei was on Steel Moon, and that was where this girl these men were looking for probably was.

"Here are the co-ordinates," Nemerov said as they appeared on the screen. "This is the headquarters. She won't be there...but she won't be far. Remember..." he paused, not knowing what would happen if he said it. "...this is assuming that she's alive..."

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Emperor Alexander Nemerov
Star Empire of Steel Butterfly,
In the Orion Sector which includes:
Steel Isle, Steel Moon,
CTaNbHaR Eabo4Ka, XIII,
Aeisis, Bivens, Esthar VIII
Orion Sector Alliance Premier,
Order of the Seraphim

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p220.jpg
Ensign Allison Wilson
Helmsman of the Outlander

Furious at the slightest suggestion that Emily might be dead Henry put his finger on the trigger. However, paused at the last possible moment, there was something in Nemerov’s eye’s.

He looked like a defeated man, he could have easily not told Henry anything, but instead had chosen to at least try and aid him. This fact was not lost on Henry, killing Nemerov would not serve any purpose, and time was not on his side. Lowering his weapon Henry turned a ran, he needed a shuttle and quick. As he ran he pulled open a channel the FA, if Dr Ackerman was running the fleet would need to go after him.



Admiral Dodalla looked out at the surroundings, even in space it looked like a killing, debris was everywhere, and she could just imagine what it looked like on the ground. It had all gone to hell, and the conversation that she just had with Henry reminded her of that. She was worried about Henry, he was on a fools quest to save someone that may not even be alive, but love will do that. Henry however, had given her some useful information; they know knew where Dr. Ackerman was going, after all NiMbus had always been their intended target.

Her thought were interrupted as she became aware of another presence in the room, she turned to see a young officer standing behind her, from the look in his face she could tell that something was wrong. From everything that the crew had been through recently, it must have been bad. “What is it”

Startled the young officer handed her a data pad “We have just received this from command”

Taking the pad the read over it quickly, the message was quick and to the point, it explained everything that was currently happening at Tappee, at the current moment in time.

“Damn” yelled Dodalla was smashed the data pad over the railing, just when she thought the situation could not get any worse.

The officer took a step back in order to put distance between him and the Admiral. “What are your orders” asked the officer cowering in fear of her wrath.

Dodalla took a deep breath and collected herself “Who else knows about this?”

“Just my self” quickly answered the officer.

“Good, this stays between us, I want a few communication blackout” the last thing she wanted was for this to get out, it would devastate troop moral. “Have all ships that are able fight form up around the FA and have them prepare to jump, those ships that can’t fight are to retreat back to Aesis.”
“Very well” interrupted the officer becoming a bit more brave “I’ll have the fleet get ready to head to the prime system”

“No1” shot Dodalla “We are going to Steel Moon and engaging NiMbus forces”

“But”

“But what!” scolded Dodalla “If Command had needed our assistance they would have asked for it.” She paused and looked out the window “Too many have died for this cause for us to turn and run. Beside we can’t help until we are finished here. It is almost done, all we have to do is drive the last nail in the coffin. Advise the Resistance of our plan, I want the fleet ready for the jump in less then an hour.”

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The sight was beautifull. The snow descended gently from the heavens to cover the ground, to hide away the signs of corpses, and battle. To cover the wreckage of tanks and buildings underneath. If one was not embroiled in a battle, it would have been easy to sit down and watch it all.

General Travis had no such time. As his main columns drove forward thru the shattered buildings and remains of Imperial defence lines, they came closer and closer to the Imperial palace.

He wanted this to be over. He wanted that bastard Nemerov caught, and this damnable excuse of a regime brought down and replaced with a new. And it would happen, it was not far now he knew. The Imperials were all but defeated down on the surface of Steel Butterfly. Pockets of resistance still remained, but they knew they were defeated. And that was part of the problem. A man with nothing to lose was the most dangerous one, just as a predator driven into a corner. Travis hoped that they would see reason, but he realized that that hope might be futile.

His massive command tank smashed aside another piece of wreckage, this one a fallen Clairmontian Tactical Armor with its left arm and head missing entirely.

They were close now, only five miles left to the palace. The forward Tactical Armor elements were encountering resistance, but nothing that their heavy weapons could not wipe out. It was as if the spirit of the defenders of the Imperial Palace had left them, and now only an empty shell remained to pull the trigger.

He opened up his communications channel.

"Captain O'Neal. Is your Company ready?" He questioned the ACS commander.

The reply was nearly instantaneous, and the voice crisp and clear.

"Yes sir. We have identified several good entry points to the palace proper and are ready to proceed."

"Good. You have a go Captain. And if you find any High Command personnel of the Empire there, you are to detain them. Is that understood Captain?"

"Yes sir."

"Excellent. Good hunting Captain. Travis out."


Captain Michael O'Neal lead two of his platoons inside the Palace, the outer skin of their Armored Combat Suits programmed to a winter camo setting. The defences were nothing much but a memory. Only the most hardcore of the Imperial Marines remained to hold on to their regime with all their strength, but the strength of will was not enough to stop the massed forces heading down on them, and the only thing those men now attempted was to take as many of their enemy with them to hell as they could. O'Neal would not grant them such satisfaction, and he had purposefully chosen to infiltrate the palace ahead of the main force to try and stop this slaughter there and now.

As the heavy feet of his armor pounded against the floor of the corridors of the palace, there was little to no reaction. The palace seemed empty, abandoned, with only the ghosts of the old Regime haunting the place. O'Neal doubted that the Emperor was still here, but it was possible. And being the final place on the face of Steel Butterfly to take over, there was nowhere else to go any longer.

His platoons moved expertly and carefully thru the corridors, checking every corner, securing areas, sweeping intersecting corridors with the barrels of their gravguns for any sign of danger.

Minutes passed as they moved on, guided by the schematics of the palace that their suits superimposed to their retina's. But, finally they were there.

To his supprise, it appeared if someone had allready been here, O'Neal thought as he entered and saw a woman standing there, and the man whose name was never in question. His suit database identified the Emperor immidiately.

O'Neal did not bother to aim for the man, he seemed harmless and such an act would have served little purpose.

"Emperor Nemerov, I wish I could say that its a pleasure." He stated simply as he approached, dwarfing the un-armored man with the seven feet tall bulk of his Armored Combat Suit.

"But I cant say I recognize you." He said to the woman accompanying the Emperor.

"And it seems that we were not the first ones here..."

http://sivut.koti.soon.fi/villerainamo/jayne.jpg
Captain Michael O'Neal
CO of 2nd ACS Company, 12th Battalion, 1st Regiment

Nemerov stared up at the man and managed not to roll his eyes. This was getting old, he thought to himself. Allison, still with one of Alexei’s pistols aimed at the fading Emperor, was about to explain to this foreigner who she was until about ten soldiers stormed the room. Only eight were in battle armor.

“This is Lieutenant Commander Mark Andrews,” one of the men without armor announced as the soldiers chose their aiming points. “Stand down!” The Clairmont soldiers did the same until after a short while, all of the ten guns were aimed at the Emperor and his reluctant female captor.

“Ensign Wilson, sir,” Allison replied, giving the commander her weapon. “Helmsman of the Outlander.” Mark looked at one of his armored men until the man nodded, confirming her identity. Taking a deep breath, Mark approached the Emperor.

“Emperor Alexander Nemerov,” Mark said slowly, his weapon drawn and his voice crisp. “You are under arrest for international war crimes, internal economical corruption at the highest level, funding illegal scientific research, as well as a multitude of other specific crimes against humanity. You will be tried under a military court consisting of both national and international justices…”

“That won’t be necessary,” Nemerov replied, calmer than one should be in such a situation.

“Please stand,” Mark continued. “You will be taken into custody and held for further questioning. When that is concluded, you shall be taken to a detention center not decided upon at this time.”

“I’m gonna need some help,” Nemerov said as he propped himself up with his arms. Mark signaled with his hand causing two soldiers to lift the Emperor to his feet and restrain him. At this time, another signal was given, and three men entered the room, one with assistance.

Sir James Pierce stared at the man who he had declared a revolution against two years ago. In two years, Pierce had torn down an Empire spanning ten centuries, and as he looked into the eyes of his nemesis he felt more guilt and pity than he thought he would.

Nemerov glared at the man with his infamous unshifting gaze. This man was a terrorist, fighting an illegal war, and destroying everything that so many built up. Then again, Pierce was just finishing it off. Nemerov had dealt the Empire its fatal blow long ago.

“If you surrender your forces,” Pierce stated. “…you will be treated with the respect given to a leader.”

“Amazing how nice one can make murder sound,” Nemerov replied, keeping his wit even now. There wasn’t much else he could hang on to at this time.

“Sir…” Pierce began, but he stopped himself. “Mr. Nemerov, I implore you to surrender your troops and your cause.”

“Come now, James,” Nemerov continued. “What cause do I have? What cause do I fight for? My troops are defending their home, not willing to believe that you have already destroyed it.” Nemerov swallowed hard; he tasted blood in his mouth. “I’m afraid…that I no longer have the authority to call off or end this war. Your opposition is run by two men who don’t talk, nor fight among each other any more. My general won’t surrender to you, and neither will the man who stole these worlds from all of us.”

“Mis-tair Nemerov,” Viktor Demidov sneered. Demidov had been silent until now, carefully choosing when to speak up. His pirates hadn’t accomplished much, or fought much for that matter, recently…and yet his thirst for revenge was no closer to being quenched. He wanted Nemerov dead, and he was going to get his way. “You are also un-dair arrest for attempt to commit genocide.” Demidov turned to a shocked Bivens and Pierce. “As dis crime vas committed first, I find dat I should ‘ave de right to try him first.”

“What legal rights do you have, pirate?” Pierce shot at him, crossing his arms in defiance.

“Vhat right do you ‘ave, traitor?” Demidov shot back. His guards entered the room and took the Emperor by the arms from the soldiers. Mark, Joseph, and the rest of the men looked at Pierce for instructions, but James gave nothing.

“Justice indeed,” Nemerov spat as he was dragged out of his office. “This is the future of Steel Butterfly…” As soon as they turned the corner, the injured Bivens rounded on Pierce.

“Why did you let them have him?” Bivens asked, obviously beyond irritation.

“What does it matter?” Pierce replied. “Either way, the man will die.”

“…and so we set the precedent of having others deal with our prisoners?” Bivens asked.

“So you take Nemerov’s side?” Pierce responded, his voice raising.

“James you were always the one proclaiming how we’re fighting for a future…don’t throw that away!”

“Look around you!” Pierce screamed. “For god’s sake look at your self.” Bivens looked down upon his destroyed knee that thankfully he couldn’t feel. “This is the future, Dave! It’s not in ten years…it’s not in one hundred years. The future is tomorrow…and right now we’re in no position to…”

“No damnit!” Bivens shouted. “I will not accept that!” Quickly, he turned to look at Joseph and Mark, who instantly knew what they must do. The ten soldiers rushed out of the room, leaving Bivens and Pierce alone with the soldiers from Clairmont.

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Sir James Pierce
Political Head of the Resistance

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Dave Bivens
President/CEO of Bivens Co.

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Viktor Mikhailovich Demidov
Russian Mafia - Orion Pirates

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p639933.png
Lt. Commander Mark Andrews
"Raptor Zero"
15th Fighter Squadron

http://67.18.37.14/129/44/upload/p360.jpg
Lieutenant Joseph Frost
Vehicle Specialist/Sniper,
1st Marines

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p220.jpg
Ensign Allison Wilson
Helmsman of the Outlander

http://67.18.37.14/43/101/upload/p1.gif
Emperor Alexander Nemerov
Star Empire of Steel Butterfly,
In the Orion Sector which includes:
Steel Isle, Steel Moon,
CTaNbHaR Eabo4Ka, XIII,
Aeisis, Bivens, Esthar VIII
Orion Sector Alliance Premier,
Order of the Seraphim

“What are we doing?” Mark asked himself as he ran, nine men behind him. They were risking their lives for a man who cared little about them…the very man who threatened their lives and who their comrades had given their lives to defeat.

The pirates, well battle worn, were little match for trained Marines in ODIN Armor, and soon Demidov’s pistol was all that stood between Mark, Joseph, and a successful mission.

Nemerov had been beaten badly, and Mark worried that he may not make it back if they didn’t leave soon…but he wouldn’t make it back at all with a hole in his skull and Demidov was now the primary concern.

“Don’t you care?” Demidov asked in his thick accent which once could be called Russian but wasn’t quite what it used to be. “Dis man vanted to keel you all, yet ‘ere you come…trying to be ‘eros…trying to save ‘im. It’s ova, commandair, De end of de line. Dis man keeled my family, my friends, and my future. Nothing vill stop me from keeling ‘im, even if you keel me.”

Mark aimed his PHAR carefully…he’d get one shot.

“I varned you, commandair…” Demidov said in a near-silent voice.

Mark fired, his PHAR tearing through the pirate’s bicep, dropping the arm and the gun to the floor. Demidov stood shocked for an instant, but as he reached for a knife he was torn apart by the Marines and left in a steaming mess on the palace floor. The Emperor was picked up, and brought back.

Pierce had left before they returned, returning to Aeisis to plan for the Empire’s surrender, and Bivens would be leaving for medical treatment after Nemerov had been dealt with. Nemerov told them where the chips containing his logs were located, and demanded that they read what he had to say.

This was it, and the man who once was one of the most powerful men in the known universe was dying. Nemerov had known it for some time, and yet now, as it approached, it still frightened him. For the last forty years Nemerov had controlled every aspect of his life and his future, but now the unknown was upsetting. Some of the soldiers rushed around, trying to get things or think of ways to save him, but Nemerov simply told Mark and Dave to come close as he still had more to say.

“That was…a hell of a shot,” Nemerov said, smiling while tears streamed down his cheeks. “Even I, who deserved to die such a death, was spared by a courageous soldier and an strong young leader. This speaks…volumes about the future…” He turned his bloody head to Bivens, and pulled him in by his tie. “Your father was a great leader…and a great man. I’m sure he’d be proud of you.” Bivens nodded, a deep regret coming over him that he never got to really get to know this man who he had just become accustomed to hating. “Tell my son…that I’m proud of him…”

Dave Bivens felt as the grip on his tie loosened and gently placed Nemerov’s hand down upon his chest. The Emperor had faded away, the Empire now fallen, and yet there was no closure…not yet. The men around him stood speechless…for history had been made under their watch, and events had taken place that would never be forgotten.

“History had a habit of judging men upon what they do and not why they do it,” Bivens said as he walked to the door, Nemerov’s log chip in hand.

“He murdered millions,” Mark replied. “He didn’t pick…he didn’t specify…they just died…”

“But under the influence that had cast its shadow upon him,” Bivens continued. “…would any of us have had the power to fight it? Would any of us had done differently?”

“Sir,” Mark responded. “I hope we never can answer that question. I hope none of us ever has that experience…”

Dave stared ahead for a long while, not moving and not making a sound. “Yeah…” he said, turning his head back one last time before his departure. “…me too commander…”

http://67.18.37.14/129/44/upload/p357.jpg
Dave Bivens
President/CEO of Bivens Co.

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p76.jpg
Viktor Mikhailovich Demidov
Russian Mafia - Orion Pirates

http://67.18.37.15/237/117/upload/p639933.png
Lt. Commander Mark Andrews
"Raptor Zero"
15th Fighter Squadron

http://67.18.37.14/129/44/upload/p360.jpg
Lieutenant Joseph Frost
Vehicle Specialist/Sniper,
1st Marines

http://67.18.37.14/43/101/upload/p1.gif
Emperor Alexander Nemerov
Star Empire of Steel Butterfly,
In the Orion Sector which includes:
Steel Isle, Steel Moon,
CTaNbHaR Eabo4Ka, XIII,
Aeisis, Bivens, Esthar VIII
Orion Sector Alliance Premier,
Order of the Seraphim

When it became clear the Imperial forces were doomed, the Cspallan Army had pulled back to the embassy and secured it. Back at home, though, things were not so peaceful.

“God DAMN it! God-frigging-damn it!” Grand Overlord Robert Fyre was angrier than anyone, even his wife, ever remembered seeing him. Agents within the Imperial establishment had just reported the emperor’s death and eminent fall of the Empire in general, and he was not happy. “We failed our allies. I failed them. Damn it, we can’t let this happen. We can declare martial law, take control until the Empire can be reestablished, something!”

“Robert, will you forget the anger and think clearly for five seconds?’ Melissa Fyre turned to face her husband. You know as well as I do that would be suicidal. We could never hold against all the forces allied against us!”

‘Fine then. We start mass bombings. I will not let our closest ally be forced down by a band of rebels and pirates!”

“Damn it, you fool. Steel Butterfly is our ally. Not the Star Empire, not Alexander Nemerov, Steel Butterfly, and the billions of people that live there.”

Robert fell silent at that, reflective. It made sense. Still, he felt like he had somehow failed in his obligations.

“Rob,” his wife and Cspalla’s chief diplomat, softer this time, “I know how you feel. But maybe, just maybe, this is better. You know how bad the corruption was getting. I know everything in you wants to resist this, but those billions of people may be better off. And that’s what the treaties are really for, isn’t it?”

“At this point…I guess you’re right. I don’t like it, but the Empire lost. Trying to protect it’s withering corpse won’t help anyone.”

“Exactly. Now, our ally is war-torn and has a government to establish. This is our chance to help them and, who knows, maybe gain a bit of political capital with the new government. I'll go and get to work on an offical statement.”

“You’re right. But I guess you were the whole time, eh Mel?”

She just smiled.

Captain Michael O'Neal took inhale from his cigarette, and watched the snow fall. It was as good as over. What remained now was little more than picking up the pieces. After a year of constant fighting, the goal had been achieved and he would finally get home, where he could forget about blowing stuff up for a while.

O'Neal was no politician, in fact, he had very little clue of such things. But he could not help but wonder what kind of Steel Butterfly would be emerging from the ashes. With NiMBUS gone from corrupting the regime, and being able to start from a clean slate, the new government had all the cards to do good things to the people of Steel Butterfly.

The view was serene. In the open, thousands of soldiers had amassed, the towering near thirty-feet tall figures of the Tactical Armor attack machines standing silently as their pilots rested. Armored vechiles and landed Assault Shuttles and Pinnaces were everywhere. Shuttles were lifting off at short intervals, carrying off the wounded back to the troop ships. If all went well, they could be all back in space in less than a day. And then, back to sweet home of Clairmont, and his Company would be getting the well deserved R&R after a year of near constant fighting.

He watched as another Assault Shuttle took to the skies, soon disappearing as it accelerated rapidly beyond the clouds and to orbit. His company was spread around him, seated amongst the rubble of a fallen building, smoking cigarettes, sleeping or just listening to music. The sound of rubble being smashed beneath the boots of an ACS armor behind him alerted him to the approach of Gunnery Sergeant Pappas.

"Hey boss. I wonder when those vacuum suckers will bring us back aboard."

O'Neal answered nearly instantly.

"Today, or tomorrow. I didnt get anything solid out of General Travis. Its a high possibility that they will take us up within six hours or so. And from there, we will be departing within a few days back home."

Pappas merely grunted in approval.

O'Neal wondered what would the fallout from this incident be like. Technically, it was an extremely difficult situation. Clairmont had assisted in the overthrowing of a legal Government of one of their own allies in the Order of the Seraphim. True, the old Empire would soon be dead and buried, but still, the repercussions could be bad. He knew he would not have to carry them, but it pained him to wonder who would be the one taking the blame and possibly having to surrender his or her career for this.

He continued to gaze upon the sight of the flights of shuttles coming and going and the massed troops amongs the falling snow, in the middle of a fallen city. How artistic...

Lady Jagara read the report carefully, taking in every detail. This was vitally important, and yet it disturbed her that she couldn't have more intelligence to go with it. Alexander Nemerov, emp.....ex-emperor of the Star Empire, was no more. Well, I guess, in the end, he resolved the situation the best he could., Lady Jagara mused, recalling the promises made by Nemerov that seemed so long ago. For essentially the enitre civil war, Sketch had maintained an official stance of supporting the Nemerov leadership, but being unable to act due to technicalities, soon found itself quietly sitting on the fence regarding the parties involved. As each detail emerged after another, as intelligence uncovered more and the light of truth pierced the haze of deception surrounding the entire event, the positions of right and wrong became increasingly blurred. On one hand, Emperor Nemerov was the head of state and rightful ruler of the Star Empire. On the other.....well, to say the least, he was apparently responsible for mass genocide on a scale even unprecedented in the history of Sketch. While morality seldom, if ever, figures into Sketchian foreign policy, the other, more morally inclined members of the Order saw it fit to intervene. A direct violation of the Order charter, an ex-communicatable offense. Yet.....with such a large silent approval amongst the other members, and without an offical request from Nemerov himself, even the Seraphim, leader of the Order could do nothing. In the dangerous game of politics and diplomatic intrigue, Sketch found itself neatly maneuvered into a position of inaction. A burgeoning military power with no where to go.

It was not as if Lady Jagara herself was entirely displeased by the fact. Personally, she found that her predecessor had made many decisions which were not entirely sound, and based policies guided on the principles of greed and self interests. But it was not enough how she felt, with an empire as large as Sketch, there was much inertia when it came to changing a political stance. And many of the "old guard" still clung to positions of power. Positions earned through favors to the old Das Sketch. It would be sometime before she could purge them all, but they will be gone. Until then, she will do all she can to ensure that she is working from the best position possible.

Outloud, apparently to no one at all, she spoke. It is time to bring Steel Butterfly back into our fold. What better triumph than to bring the great empire back to its glory and ingratiate its peoples to us? I'm sure the new leaders of Steel Butterfly will find our assistance to be most welcome. See to it that the resistance representative has a private talk with our Order liason.

Yes m'lady.

How things have came full circle thought Dodalla to her self. Only a short while ago they were sending their forces down to the planet, and now they were bring them back up as quickly bring them back up. They stood at a pivotal cross road, the empire had now fallen, and for some that would be enough, but not for her or for Tappee.

There was one that has escape their grasp, one that had fled, and the one more then any other that they truly wanted, Dr Ackerman

The beleaguered Tappee fleet had formed around the Furious Angel. Those ships that could continue fighting would follow the Furious Angel too Steel moon, where the final battle in this war would be fought. The remainder would help the resistance secure and stabilize the planet.

For the first time since all this had began Admiral Dodalla could see the light at the end of the tunnel. However, this final victory would not be an easy victory, but it was a battle that they had to fight, more importantly one they had to win.

Taking a deep breath Dodalla looked over command crew and allowed a moment of silence. She opened up a channel to the fleet

“We have all fought hard, and given up much in this war” she proclaimed, ending the silence. Her crew fixed their gaze upon her. “I more then anyone know how tired you are all, and how much I have asked from you. Believe me when I say that an Admiral could not have a better crew serving under her then you, you all have made me proud, but more then that you have made your country proud of you. We are finally ending our long and arduous journey, and I’m afraid that I must ask a bit more of you. Dr Ackerman, the true mastermind behind all this has fled to Steel Moon, and it is there that we must face him. We can not allow them to prepare, thus I must implore you to pursue, but will not force you.”

For a moment everyone stood there, not sure what to say, finally a lone voice became known.

“This the bridge to Engineering, prepare to make the jump, all ships check in”

One by one the names of all the ships came over the intercom, Doddalla was relived to hear that all the ships she had asked to join in the attack were coming along.

As General Valkare led the revolution not even a mile outside the walls, Sky Marshall Alek Petrovich Adrikov, Director of Capital Defense, tried to concentrate on the task at hand. The Imperial Defense Headquarters was not located in Monarch Heights along with the palace, yet it was still on the third and highest level of the planet-city Steel Butterfly.

In any other situation, Adrikov would resign. The young officer had performed brilliantly in the intelligence organization, Phoenix, and had quickly risen through the ranks. Nevertheless, Nemerov’s promotion of Alek a year ago was a shock – especially considering the other able candidates.

Alek had been thrown into a mess…a losing situation…that he did not realize at first. After a month on the job, he easily understood the two Sky Marshalls before him who chose to leave their posts. Now, eleven months after his realization, he wondered how former Sky Marshalls Rei Warheit and Michael Zephyr must have felt at their moment of deceit.

“No,” Adrikov told himself. He was different. The other two went against what their superiors wanted for personal reasons. He was saving the people, even if he couldn’t save the Empire. Mustering up his courage and concealing his dagger within his jacket, the Sky Marshall walked towards his boss’s office, confident and in control.

In contrast, High General James Shockey relished the situation he had been placed in. After all, this was how heroes were made. Putting down the notice he just received, the High General smiled as he felt the rush begin within and expand to even beyond his skin. He was in control…this was his empire…and he’d be damned if he was going to be the one to lose it.

Politicians had failed before him, but he would not suffer his fate. No, General Shockey was a military man of great mental and physical prowess who would not be tempted by the corruption nation leaders were exposed to and civilians gave into. He would run this empire and win this war the only way that he knew…tight and supreme control.

Needless to say, it was a great shock to the General when his Sky Marshall, and second in command, came to him suggesting surrender. Shockey was a man of a different age it seemed…one who would rather die miserably than ever hand over his sword. However, his solders were not, and already reports of dissension and insurrection were spreading like wildfire. The Imperial aura of invincibility was smashed and along with it the morale of the troops.

“I don’t care,” Shockey said simply, turning his back to Adrikov in disgust. He paused, then continued. “I truly believe that you do not realize what you’re saying, Alek.”

“Sir I don’t believe that you realize what you’re doing…and what you’re suggesting to do…”

"It it not your job to guess my mindset, Sky Marshall," Shockey proclaimed, spinning back around and pointing his finger menacingly in Adrikov's face...not even an inch away from his nose. "This is my Empire now, and you're lucky I let you exist within its walls...my walls damnit!"

"You're right..." Adrikov replied, taking a step forward so that the two men were basically touching. Slowly he slid the knife out from its holster while both men's glares never shifted from each other's eyes. "...I am lucky."

Shockey gasped, rightfully stunned as the blade pierced his stomach. His hands clasped Adrikov's wrist as he stared up at his murderer's cold blank face, his own face beginning to tremble. The General's hands flailed up, reaching for the Sky Marshall's throat, but Adrikov stood still and silent as Shockey's grasp fell short. The General fell to his knees and then to his stomach, driving the weapon deep into his spine.

Adrikov then removed his shirt. He would be addressing them all, and he could not do so in clothes stained with treason. He put on his jacket, then opened a channel on all frequencies.

.:Channel Established:.
Command Priority

"This is Sky Marshall Alek Petrovich Adrikov, currently the Emperor-in-Command of our beloved Star Empire," Adrikov began, his face lighting up on every screen capable. First he would address his men...then he would turn himself over. "Gentlemen, you have fought with your hearts...your minds...and your bodies...however today we stand at a crossroads where we are caught in a punishing situation like no other. We fight for our families, for ourselves, and for our nation...yet as we do we damn the future of what we prize most. Let this war continue, and we shall have no families, no nation, and no hope. I ask you either to drop your weapons and go home...or to grasp hands with your brothers opposing you and fight the real threat that has come to be. NiMBUS, on Steel Isle, is preparing a final strike against the Empire which it so long as controlled. This resistance, our enemy, has been fighting them this whole time and they do not intend to stop now. They are currently taking the fight to NiMBUS in hopes of bringing this hellfest to an end. In truth...they have been fighting for us all along...and yet we kill them for it. It's time for a change...and that change starts now."

Adrikov smiled and nodded...then the screens went dark.

.:Channel Terminated:.

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High General James Shockey
High Commander of the Imperial Military

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Sky Marshall Alek Petrovich Adrikov
Commander of the Imperial Fleet and Marines
Head of Capital Defense

Alexei recognized the lifesign, yet this was no time to pause for nostalgia. Agent Kobe seemed to be following his path to the planet...and in Alexei's mind he simply made them an easier target. He would have to lose Henry in the asteriod field.

Alexei banked his ship to the right hard, and Henry reacted with such an angle and speed that it would lead him to Alexei's position in nearly half the time. However, Alexei dropped his nose down, spun around, and flew his ship straight up...dodging asteroids and changing directions rapidly.

As he exited the asteriod field, Alexei had lost Henry for the moment...but Alexei nearly froze as he saw the fleets amassing around the planet from his cockpit window. He would have to move fast. Dipping the nose of the fighter into the planet's atmosphere, Alexei corkscrewed to the surface as polaron bombs began to fall on the planet, clearing the way for a drop.

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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Captain William Mitchell of the Predator shook Captain Leon Williams' hand and saluted General Valkare. Minutes ago, the Predator had been called to the capital in order to ship soldiers from Steel Butterfly to Steel Moon. The Necromancer-Class Heavy Destroyer was not equipped to handle troop transport, but at the point in the war no soldier or general honestly cared how they were shipped around.

Now, as they approached Steel Moon, Valkare alone was to come up with a battleplan. General Michael Sherman, the Mobile Infantry Commander of the resistance for most of the war, had been shot down along with his ship in the invasion of the Capital. Now, the Mobile Infantry and Marines turned to Valkare, an outsider, to lead them to victory.

"It's rather obvious that we're going to invade the planet...using standard planetary invasion tactics," Valkare began. "The drop zones will be bombarded until clear, at which time dropships will land as many as they can, with the other soldiers getting down to the planet which ever way possible. Dropships will return to their original ships in order to retrieve other waves of troops. It will be the goal of the first and then the second waves to hold their individual zones until the third wave lands. At that time, the troop clusters will combine into fighting units and move towards their objective."

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"It seems that NiMBUS is rather centralized," Captain Mitchell commented, bringing up a holographic schematic of the planet.

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"The enormous NiMBUS Headquarters is centralized in Lunae," Mitchell continued. "...the only oasis on the desert planet of Steel Moon. Directly outside of Lunae, in the sands, there are underground defensive units put in place by the Empire but now run and manned by NiMBUS. These units are believed to now all lead to the NiMBUS core, an underground hive far below the city. These are where the...experiments...are believed to take place."

"We will attack the city itself from orbit," Valkare continued. "...and we will attack it on the ground from all angles. Eventually...it will fall. They will give ground back into the core. From there, we expect some sort of surge...although what it will be we don't know. We must fight back this final offensive. It is the decisive key to the battle. Prepare your men, Captains...this will be their greatest achievement."

"I'll inform my troops," Captain Williams said, standing and saluting the General.

"And I'll inform the fleet," Captain Mitchell replied, doing the same. General Valkare stood and saluted them in return as they exited through the door. The General stood and walked to where the troops were held...

...he wouldn't be sitting this one out either.

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Captain William Mitchell
CO of the Predator

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

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Captain Leon Williams
Leader of the 2nd Marines

"This is it men," Commander Eric Vinzer said to those sitting around him. "We kick enough ass out here and it's over."

"Our drop zone is the closest to the city I hear," Lieutenant Sean Athens commented, attempting to wipe his face with his filthy hands. "Makes sense I suppose. So, uh, Lieutenant Benz...how does it feel to be working with others for a change?"

Kris raised his head. Earlier in the war, Esthar soldiers had only fought in units composed of other Esthar soldiers since Valkare's planet of Esthar VIII entered late and full integration takes time. Now, however, there was no room for formalities, and they had been thrown in with everyone else to fill the holes put in the rebel ranks by Imperial weaponry. "How does it feel to be working with the best?" he sneered, smiling yet serious.

Sean frowned. At any other time he would prove to this arrogant man who really was the best...but right now the planet to planet rivalries and stereotypes of the former Empire didn't seem quite as meaningful as they once had. "Commander," Sean asked, nodding his head upwards to Eric. "What kind of men do you think we'll be facing?"

"NiMBUS has a well-trained special guard," Eric replied, thinking back to the city in Tappee. "Other than that..."

Both Sean and Kris waited for a few moments in suspense, but Eric seemed frozen in thought. "Other than that what Commander?"

The horrors swept through Eric's mind, engulfing his deepest fears and bringing them to life before his eyes. The memories shook him to his core as the terror that lived down on that bastard planet waited for them...for him. Would they encounter the threat itself? Would they...

"Gentlemen," Captain Williams interrupted, addressing the troops as he entered the docking bay where they were located. "We will be moving out in thirty minutes time. Your individual objectives are being transmitted to you. In the meantime, I want every man to learn the job of the man ahead of him and to teach his job to the man below him. Do not prepare yourselves to die, or to lose...but to win...and live!"

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Captain Leon Williams
Leader of the 2nd Marines

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Commander Eric Vinzer
XO of the 2nd Marines

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Lieutenant Sean Athens
27th M.I., 2nd Marines

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Lieutenant Kris Benz
Esthar Strike Marines
13th Marine Division

“Alexei” said Henry quietly under his breath as he confirmed the identity of the pilot “what are you doing here?”

His mind began racing trying to figure out as to why Alexei was here. Suddenly Alexei’s craft banked hard to the right begin evasive manoeuvres.

Slamming the throttle down, Henry changed his vector in an attempt to intercept Alexei. His TSF 32 lurched in protest as the sheer inertial forces twisted the craft, but the craft had been for such handling. Before Henry could reach Alexei’s, Alexei put his ship into a dive entering the asteroid field. Entering the asteroid field at a different vector then Alexei, it was next to impossible for Henry to keep track him, as a result Henry lost Alexei on his sensors.

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TSF 32 'Scorpion'

Coming out of the Field Henry could see the parts of the Fleet had already arrived and were beginning their attack, his would make the approach to the planet easier, but moving on the ground much more difficult.

As he came up on the planet once again Alexei’s ship came up on his sensor, this time he would not allow Alexei to so easily elude him.

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Henry Kobe

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"If space is freezing," Bivens thought to himself, looking out a window. "Then this damn ship isn't much better..."

Lieutenant JG Jack Highwind was used to the brisk conditions in the Raptor-Class Star Fighter. The chill was bracing, and it kept him awake throughout the flight. What Jack wasn't used to, however, was being treated like a cadet in wartime. Granted a cadet wouldn't be chosen to transport such a prestigous man...but he should be fighting...along with the others...

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"Raptor-Two this is Cathedral Air Command," A voice said over the ship's comm link as Jack's fighter approached the atmosphere of the planet Bivens. "An escort will be granted immediately. Please procede to the specified location."

"Roger that Cathedral," Jack replied. Soon his...cargo...would be gone and he would be able to get back to where he belonged. Soon.

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The fighter shaked as it swept through the atmosphere, eventually docking onto one of the many beautiful towers atop the brilliant capital of Bivens, rightfully named the Corporate Cathedral. Business was worshipped, with money the people's god.

Bivens himself smiled as he got back to his home, where his leg would be restored to its pre-gunshot state and he would meet with James Pierce on the future of the Orion Sector. If this Adrikov wanted to surrender, then steps had to be taken and things discussed.

Within minutes, Jack was speeding back into space, back towards the battle. Unfortunately, so was Zephyr's band of insurgents, who were without the capability of telling the difference between the Imperial and Rebel signature.

"Captain," Sky Marshall Michael Zephyr ordered, swiftly walking out of his office and onto the bridge. "Get the Vymmah Yhkam on screen."

"Yessir," Captain Lusec Apakoh replied, hitting a button on his armrest. Colonel William Sharp's face appeared on the large viewscreen.

"Sky Marshall we have a ship on sensor," Colonel Sharp said instantly. "A lone fighter...Raptor-Class sir."

"You took the words right out of my mouth, Colonel." Zephyr replied. "Now...what would a single starfighter be doing this deep into Resistance territory?"

"You want me to hail him?" Sharp asked, knowing the answer already.

"Please," Zephyr replied, intently waiting for the reply.

Meanwhile, Jack Highwind grew tense. There was only one Apparition, and it was now on his sensors. Having faced the ship before, he knew its firepower was far beyond anything that they had ever told anyone about. Even better, he thought sarcastically, was the fact that a Zabraki juggernaut was hailing him. Were the Zabrak alligned with Zephyr? Were they conquered by the man? No. He wasn't going to reply. He was going to slip into the subspace fold before they could react.

Unfortunately, Jack misjudged the reaction time of Zephyr's men.

"Sir," Sharp reported. "There is no response."

"I see that, Colonel." Zephyr replied, already knowing his next move.

"Subspace engines are powering up," Captain Apakoh announced, turning to look at the Sky Marshall. Zephyr nodded.

"This man may be a spy...or a scout," Zephyr told his two captains. "Fire."

The engine of Jack Highwind's fighter slipped into the subspace fold, leaving the charred remains of the cockpit behind. Jack never felt a thing...and now...he no longer would.

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Lt. JG Jack Highwind
"Raptor 2"
15th Fighter Squadron

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Dave Bivens
President/CEO of Bivens Co.

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Sky Marshall Michael Zephyr
Former Commander,
Imperial Fleet and Marines

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Colonel William Sharp
15th Imperial Marines

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Captain Lusec Apakoh
81st Imperial Marines

Suddenly the craft shook violently as it hit the atmosphere, Henry momentarily fought with the controls trying to keep his craft under control. Under Henry’s guidance the belly of the craft exposed itself towards the planet, a red fiery glowed was quickly developing.

After a few brief moments the nose of the crafted dropped down as the craft slowed for atmospheric flight. Skilfully Henry broke through group clouds, as he did he could see his objective, NiMbus head quarters. His plan was simple land outside the main facility and works his way in, and from the looks of it he was not the only one. He could see that Alexei had already landed, Henry decided the land his craft not far from Alexei’s, and hopefully he could catch him.

There was a gentle thud as he landed. Not wasting any time he grabbed is gear and was on his way.

Meanwhile in space the Tappee taskforce was laying it own assault against the planet. Swarms of dropsuits were falling from the sky, a precursor to the deployment of main ground force.

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Captain McNeill emerged from the wreckage with Lt.Cmdr. Trinneer not far behind. This had been their ship, their life...but as the Imperials pushed the Outlander far beyond her limits, they had abandoned her, sending her falling through the skies towards the planet.

The scar left by the Outlander was far larger than anything either of them had seen, and even as they walked through the rubble, they were still far from where the ship had stopped. Little remained. Down the crater they descended, silent as ever, paying respects to their memories...and those left behind.

McNeill removed his glove to touch what had been part of the hull and sighed. Trinneer sat upon a chair that had survived the crash, staring off in the distance, almost expecting to hear the slight hum of the core, the orders from his captain.

Instead, Captain McNeill let out a sharp cry and Trinneer jumped to his feet, knocking the seat out away from him. He watched in a slow-motion form of fear as the Captain fell to his knees, gasping for air. He looked up at Trinneer, tears dripping from his eyes and blood from his mouth, and tried to talk...but only a dry rasping sound was heard.

The Lieutenant Commander's eyes darted from rooftop to rooftop, searching for the murder, until Captain McNeill's head was blown out of Trinneer's arms. Trinneer spun to the left, dropping the captain's limp body onto the ground, and tore off after where the shot had come from. The shooter had been close.

Savagely he ripped through the rubble, searching tirelessly for his Captain's murderer, until he came upon a man who seemed to be missing a foot, rifle in hand. Trinneer's reaction was late, and the polaron blast knocked him back several feet...the beam tearing through his abdomen.

Tasting blood, he reached down and picked up a metal shard most likely from his ship. Heaving it before him, the metal spun through the air, slicing deep into the murderer's neck. The man tried to raise his gun, but his arm fell...sentencing Trinneer to a much more agonizing death.

Would they be remembered? Would those who found them know they had survived the crash? Would they know the bond they had shared with this ship...the bond that was so strong it called them back towards their fallen master only to their doom?

Would they be moved? Called heroes and escorted away? No, Trinneer told himself as he faded out of sanity into a much darker world. They were with family...and there they should remain. Perhaps...perhaps they were never meant to leave.

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Captain Thomas McNeill
CO of the Outlander

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Lt. Commander Charles Trinneer
XO of the Outlander

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The soldier stepped out into the bombed-out world of NiMBUS, mere miles from the gates of Lunae, and into hidden chaos.

"Area secure," Lieutenant Kris Benz announced, returning to the group as the third wave exited from their dropships. They were to move foward.

General Valkare nodded at Captain Williams and the troops silently swept across the land, barren and littered with wreckage. This was an entire planet, all located in a single city. No life existed elsewhere. No life could.

Soon, the lifesigns blurred. Commanders across the invading force alerted their captains, but Eric knew different. He had seen this before, and the memory caused his legs to freeze, his heart to harden, and his mind to race from thought to thought. Every instinct told him to return, to retreat, and every command told him to move foward, but he could do neither in the few seconds that to him seemed to be an eternity.

"Commander," Lieutenant Sean Athens said, slapping Eric on the shoulder of his suit and interrupting his nightmare. "The Captain has ordered scouts. It's...uh...your job to assign them..."

"I know my job," Eric snapped back, trying to sound confident but his voice shaked. Sean had noticed too.

"If you want me too..."

"No," Eric replied. "Scouts are not necessary."

"But the Captain..."

"Do I outrank you, Lieutenant?" Eric asked his good friend. Startled, Sean nodded his head. "Then do not question my orders." Not commenting on the hypocracy of Eric very order, Sean walked beside the Commander as he approached Captain Williams.

"Commander?" Leon asked, annoyed. "Those scouts were supposed to be deployed five mi..."

"Sir," Eric interrupted. "Sending soldiers out alone would not be a wise decision in my opinion sir."

"That...is their job, Commander..."

"Yessir, I know that, sir," Eric continued relentlessly. "I just..."

"No Commander," Leon replied. "You just need to learn how to control yourself. Check that. You already know how. Now is no exception." Leon pointed to Lieutenants Athens and Benz. "You two...scouting...double time...you're late." Eric watched as Sean and Kris scampered off into the darkness and prayed to no one in particular that they would return.

Eventually, Sean's voice was heard, followed by footsteps across the invading force. Lt. Athens returned without fear, but instead hate.

"DAMNIT!" he screamed, his arms flailing about. "It...it grabbed him! I shot it...at least five fu king times...but it still..."

"Spit it out, Lieutenant!" Leon screamed in reply, shaking the Lieutenant by his shoulders.

"I fucking followed it...into the sands...and killed it, the bastard thing," Sean continued. "But it had...it fucking ate Kris!" Eric cocked his weapon and checked his backups. His nightmares were about to become true. "I stood there, fucking horrified at what I saw...but others came. I fired...but they took it...only pausing. I was trapped, so I hit buttons, and a lift brought me up to the surface...not far from here. There's tunnels under there...and I bet they lead to..."

"Lieutenant," Leon asked, suddenly calm. "Do you think you could lead us back towards one of these tunnels?"

"FUCK NO!" Sean screamed without thinking. Gathering he stated a real reply. "I...I don't know. I just followed that fucking hellspawn of a..."

"Then we find one," Leon ordered, much to the hatred of Sean and Eric. "...and we follow it. Boys those tunnels are what we came for, and I'll be damned if I run and hide from them. If what Lt. Athens is saying is true, these things could pop up at us at any time, and drag us under. Turn on your tracing devices and stay alive. Everyone follow the next man to fall!"

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

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Captain Leon Williams
Leader of the 2nd Marines

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Commander Eric Vinzer
XO of the 2nd Marines

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Lieutenant Sean Athens
27th M.I., 2nd Marines

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Lieutenant Kris Benz
Esthar Strike Marines
13th Marine Division

The ODIN armor, while more comfortable than it appeared, felt quite restricting to Mark. A pilot by trade, Mark was nowhere close to being used to ground combat, and yet as a member of the military he was also far from incompetent. Now, clutching his PHAR close to his chest, Mark walked silently across the sands as his eyes darted from dune to dune…searching for holes to the underground.

Lately Mark had thought often about why he had gotten involved with this resistance, yet an answer continued to avoid him up to this point. Was it for vengeance against the military which expelled him? Was it merely for a chance to fly real ships once more? No, he thought to himself, he had followed Katrina into Aeisis. She was always the radical, and he loved her for it. She was here somewhere, he knew it.

Still, the fact that he was right surprised him. Her lifesigns were on his scanner, scrambled as they may be, and she was not far from his current location. Walking towards her, he felt a phantom joy in his soul, she, the light at the end of the tunnel. She seemed not to notice as she searched for the holes, and to Mark's horror, Katrina found one.

A scream echoed over everyone's comm as each soldier turned to where they thought it had come from. Almost instantly, they rushed to the location, but Mark had already went in after Katrina. He was not about to lose her.

The surprisingly well-lit catacombs under the sand were a sight to behold. Death surrounded Mark on all sides, and he grabbed Katrina and pressed his back against a wall. Firing wildly, Mark flattened rows of those reanimated by NiMBUS. No longer human, the fiends advanced on his location without thought or reason, only by instinct. No matter how often he shot, the hellspawn continued to advance, their reaching hands quickly getting closer.

On the surface, Eric and Sean struggled to open the gateway to the underworld through the blowing sand and thick metal preventing them from reaching their goal and saving their copatriots. Eventually, reason gave way to pure firepower, and what the explosion didn't destroy, the plasma quickly melted.

The flesh was on fire in the halls under the sand, and where screams should have been silence took hold. The blast had shorted the lights, and in the darkness the chaos was even more frightening. Mark and Katrina were under a pile of the undead and other mutated forms, as the demons scratched and bit at their armor which could not be penetrated. However, with a swift swat of an arm, a giant creature appeared before their eyes, gazing down at them with wild, deranged eyes.

Eric and Sean were relentless in their attack, mowing down clusters of creatures until they came upon the giant one over the pile. With the reaction time expected of experts, they felled the beast with an onslaught of phased firepower, allowing Mark and Katrina to get to their feet.

Together, they sprinted back to the exit, leaving behind an explosive and a host of fiends in their wake. Around the city, the soldiers did the same, blowing the hatches and setting explosives in the halls. All at once, the catacombs exploded, dropping the city into the sand and unleashing hell upon its invaders.

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Lt. Commander Mark Andrews
"Raptor Zero"
15th Fighter Squadron

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Lieutenant Katrina Brady
"Raptor 1"
15th Fighter Squadron

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Commander Eric Vinzer
XO of the 2nd Marines

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Lieutenant Sean Athens
27th M.I., 2nd Marines

Henry had found him, although it hadn't been hard. Now deep within the core, Alexei had left a trail of bodies, human and not, behind him as he forcefully made his way towards the man of his dreams and nightmares alike - Dr. Ackerman. Alexei had little time for small talk, so he nodded at the man who obviously was not going away and continued walking, blasting at everything in sight with his twin PHK's.

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He had lost his PHAR some time ago when cornered, breaking it while smashing skulls and metal alike. His anger unmeasureable, Alexei decended yet another flight of stairs, murdering yet another set of guards. He came across memos telling all senior advisors to flee, sent after the attack had already begun. They truely had caught NiMBUS by surprise. Emotionless, Alexei pulled out his lighter and set the memos ablaze.

Suddenly the whole underground building shook as the echoes of an explosion above rocked the core as if there was an earthquake. Thrown to the ground, Alexei and Henry both heard the crashing sound above them as the entire city collapsed into the sand due to the destruction of the catacombs below it. Now, water from the Sea of Lunae could be heard rushing through the cracks above into the deepest place possible...the core.

Rising to their feet, Alexei and Henry began to sprint. No doubt Dr. Ackerman felt the blast as well, and Alexei was not about to let the bastard escape again. No, one of them was going to die. This time, there would be closure.

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

It had not taken Henry long to find Alexei, could easily recognize the man handy work in all the bodies that he had found. From the brutality the scene he couldn’t helped but wonder if his friend had finally snapped.

When the two did finally meet up neither said a word, understanding that the other was here for their own reasons.

With cold efficiency the men cut their way through matter ever resistance they encountered. Blinded by their objectives they pushed forward with little thought of their own safety.

As ground violently lurched under them, they were temporarily thrown to the ground. Henry couldn’t help but be reminded of their struggle at Tatania, despite all the time that had passed, not much had changed. Surrounded by death and destruction they were running forward to face their ultimate foe, Dr Ackerman.

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


Éclair spent a moment fiddling with force field that was holding them in, and for the time being she wasn’t having much luck.

“Your wasting your time, you know that right” said Emily from her seat in the cell “We are going to die here”

Turning to face Emily, Éclair could the sound of defeat in the woman voice. However, she herself was not one to give up so easily, she had been through so much in her life just to roll over and die without a fight. “There is always hope, with out hope there is nothing” she allowed herself a bit of smile “besides, one never knows what the future way hold.”

The sarcasm of Éclair statement was not lost on Emily, and for a moment she almost laughed. However, she realized that now was not the time for such things, there was more pressing matter. “Is there anything that I can do help?”

“Not really” quickly answered Éclair as she went back to work “These are actually rather simple compared to what we have in the future, it only a mater of bypassing the..”

Suddenly ground shook and the power went out, along with the power the force field dropped.

“See what I meant about not knowing the future” said Éclair as reached over for Emily, “Now lets get out here before the emergency power kicks in.

As the two made their way out of the cell the emergency lighting kicked in, giving them some light to which navigate by. Following Éclair lead they began running through the endless corridors of the facility.

For Emily it seemed like they were running for an eternity. Suddenly Éclair came to a grinding halt, not able to stop in time Emily ran into her falling to the ground. Rolling to lessen the impact she looked up to see why Éclair had stopped, the colour drained from her face. Although the two never met face to face the reputation of the man standing before her proceeded him, the sight of Dr Ackerman caused great fear.

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Henry Kobe

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Emily Williams

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Agent Eclair

Dave Bivens was surprised to see James awaiting him in his office. Pierce was elegantly dressed, a completely white tuxedo lined with diamonds. Smilingly in a sad sort of way, Pierce stood and nodded as Bivens crutched towards him.

“How’s the knee?” Pierce asked, pulling out Bivens’ chair for him.

“How’s it look?” Dave replied, trying to lighten the mood. Pierce’s reaction was uneasy, so Bivens took the cue and answered more seriously. “The doctors said it was completely destroyed. They need to…grow it back. Long and painful I hear.”

“It’s not as bad as it seems,” Pierce replied, rubbing and gazing at his left hand. “…and the results are amazing.”

“How are the troops doing?” Bivens wondered, getting down to business and bringing up a holo-display.

“That’s under your jurisdiction now,” Pierce responded, the same sad smile on his face. He looked so much older than Bivens remembered.

“Excuse me?” Bivens asked, confused.

“You’ve been in control since the invasion of Steel Butterfly,” Pierce said. “…sir.” He added. “With your general at your side, you led an assault against the strongest Imperial stronghold – the capital. You took the war to the enemy and struck them at their core…their heart. Now, without faltering, you moved the war to the other objective…NiMBUS.”

Shocked, Bivens shook his head. “No,” he replied. “This is your war…your victory. I won’t take it from you…”

“You could not have taken what I gave you, David,” Pierce said. “You cannot steal a gift, much less one rightfully earned.”

“I was forced into situations James,” Bivens replied. “Forced into leadership by my father’s passing, forced into action because of money…NiMBUS was driving Bivens Inc. into the ground because of corruption”

“No…you were given rotten lemons…and still managed to make fresh lemonade,” Pierce alleged. “You flourished in the most unfortunate situations imaginable. You were quite amazing.”

“It was far from me alone,” Bivens countered. “I followed the lot of you. Valkare my mind…you…you’ve been like a father to me in mine’s absence.”

Pierce smiled and nodded his response. Turning, he pulled a pistol from his pocket and looked at the weapon in his hands. Quickly he looked up at Bivens’ surprised expression.

"I learned today...that I represent the struggle...the past...the problem,” Pierce proclaimed, trying to explain himself to Bivens. “Like Nemerov, I too cannot remain. You Dave, you are the future! Embrace your destiny and become the leader you were born to be. You are already so close…so strong…”

“No!” Bivens exclaimed, jumping to his feet and hurting his knee. “You cannot be serious.”

“Be careful,” Pierce told him. “Many people depend on you.”

“And the ones that depend on you?” Bivens asked.

“They need to be weaned off the lies.”

“What?”

James Pierce raised his hand and fired his pistol through it, splattering blood on the carpet. He did not even shutter at the wound. Bivens watched in horror as Pierce bled himself onto the floor and onto the gun itself. He then tossed the weapon onto the floor, and addressed Bivens, his friend and companion.

“I’m not from here, Dave,” he clarified. “I was sent here to help you…to ensure that you win…to ensure that you receive what will be yours. You no longer need my help.”

“The Temporal Guard?” Bivens replied, shocked. “I…I never would have…”

“So you’ve heard,” Pierce said, now wrapping a bandage around his wounded hand.

“What if I simply want your help?” Bivens asked. “Regardless of need…what if I simply want your guidance…your companionship?”

“I doubt this will be the end of our relationship,” Pierce said, the sad smile once again stretched across his face. “But they…the people…the cannot know that. Sir James Pierce…he killed himself so that the Empire could begin anew…without the baggage of the past. His body was buried by Dave Bivens in a small ceremony…and perhaps a statue was made in the Garden of Greatness to remember his selfless contribution.”

Bivens nodded, understanding what had to be done.

“We will see each other once more,” James Pierce said, clasping Bivens’ shoulders in a manly embrace as a rift opened up inside Bivens’ office. After pausing, the two kicked aside social perception and hugged briefly, two friends…two leaders. “I will always be there to help.”

Bivens smiled as Pierce walked towards the glowing and swirling abis that would take him back to his time…back to his home. Pierce paused before he entered, turning and saluting the young man who so revered his guidance.

“Emperor,” Pierce said, as both men’s eyes began to water, both men too proud to cry. “While I await my next visit, your chariot awaits you. There is much to be done.”

Bivens saluted in return, a smile beaming across his face.

“For the Empire, Dave,” Pierce said, stepping into the portal.

“No,” Bivens replied. “For us.”

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Sir James Pierce
Political Head of the Resistance

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Dave Bivens
President/CEO of Bivens Co.

The tides of life shift endlessly, never ceasing. The landscape is reshaped, reborn by these tides of water, or sand in this case, but within the tide hides the truth of the past. The sands of time cast their shadow over reality, hiding the turmoil deep within.

Today these sands were red, a deep red that made the shadows come alive and toy with dreams and nightmares alike. The color could not be mistaken by a bypasser, and had the sands stood still the color would have remained.

But lo, already the sands were moving, already the carnage mixing in, the sands hiding their horrors underneath a deep blanket that would never be uncovered. The red was turning brown, until more lives shattered, and the bodies were disappearing before their eyes.

How many men had died? No one truely knew. Could these monsters from within the city understand death? Could they feel it? They were relentless to a fault, always advancing until they could no longer move, until they could no longer function. Were these the perfect soldiers NiMBUS had envisioned? Was this Nemerov's dream of military superiority?

Perhaps it was to save lives at one time. Creating a soldier with just enough brain power to function, void of concious or independant thought. Then again NiMBUS never achieved such a lofty goal, instead their failures met their pitiful end at the barrel of man's weapons after being cast off out of their home...their cell...into the wilderness.

"They will outlast us," Eric said to himself, whispering among the chaos as he gazed across the battlefield. Valkare had led the remaining men to a hilltop were sand gave way to rock - stability. "Had they ran out of men? Was there a battle going on in space?" he wondered to no avail. There were too many men dying...and dying so quickly. Fifty left, they huddled together firing at all sides while the hellspawn of the city slowly but surely climbed the peak.

Would they celebrate a victory? Would they realize that they had won? Another wave of dropships landed, crushing the half-life below them before the sea of zombies and mutants covered the ship entirely, trapping or killing the men inside. It was all the dropships could do to take off once more. The planet had been lost, the backlash unexpected by all but one man...the man who caused this.

Captain Leon Williams was quiet as he tore through the mutuated ranks of the opposition. He too was a cause, he too was at fault...and although he fought all of his nearly-eternal life to correct his mistakes, he could not wash the blood from his hands, the taste from his mouth, or the ghouls from his dreams. He shed no tears for the bastards he destroyed, but none for himself or his men either. He was no longer human, and sadly for him he knew it. Almost emotionless he know fought without thinking...as he had done for the past three centuries throughout all of time. He was no better than these fiends, he thought, and he had come from the same place.

Either left for dead or simply expected to be, the Marines and other soldiers from both the Resistance and Tappee dug in for their final stronghold, their last great stand. These fifty men would have to win together, and if that could not be accomplished, at least they would have the comfort of dying together...

...whatever comfort that gave...

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Captain Leon Williams
Leader of the 2nd Marines

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Commander Eric Vinzer
XO of the 2nd Marines

Their presence had been sensed long before, yet their importance had not arrived until now. Dr. Ackerman smiled to himself as the two ladies approached his office but did not look up from what he was doing. They could only see the upper half of his body as it shook back and forth. It was unfortunate really that they couldn't see his handywork. He was almost done.

Tossing the woman aside after unloading himself into her, he readied his attire and straightened his tie. He turned, a sadistic grin spanning his face as he slowly walked towards them.

"I was not expecting guests," the doctor lied, silently inching towards his foolish prey...still smiling. "My dear," he addressed them both after recieving no response. "This is indeed an unparalleled delight."

Seeming frozen in fear, the two women stared ahead at the demon before them. His human appearance meant nothing as the evil radiated from his eyes, his smile.

Stopping just short of them as they began to lean backwards, their legs feeling heavy, Dr. Ackerman's smile faded. "The trap is set...and it waits for its prey..." he whispered to himself, just loud enough for Emily and Eclair to purposely overhear. Instantly the smile returned just as a phased blast tore though Dr. Ackerman's face from behind his head, spilling blood and brains all over the two girls.

His neck twitching, the doctor calmly turned and addressed the man who had shot him. "I had rather hoped that you would come," he said to Alexei as his face quickly put itself back together as if nothing had happened. "...and now, my wish comes true...you four have truely made my night."

"Free her!" Henry shouted, his expression of horror quickly changing to anger.

"Your lover makes a passionate plea," Dr. Ackerman told Emily as he turned to face her, obviously enjoying their pain.

"Closing time, Robert," Alexei said, raising his guns once more. "It's over."

"You have come here in pursuit of your deepest urge, in pursuit of that wish, which 'till now has been silent?" Dr. Ackerman asked. Alexei nodded.

"Your death means everything," Alexei replied. "I have nothing else to say. I came here to kill you, and I will." The doctor laughed at his remark.

"Silence!" Ackerman commanded. "I brought you here. In your mind you've already succumbed to me...you've dropped all defences...completely succumbed to me."

"Bullshit," Alexei replied, his scowl deepening.

"You've decided, no second thoughts about it," Dr. Ackerman continued. "What rich desire unlocks the door to the raging fire that floods the soul, Alexei? Loss? Revenge? Murder?" The last word seemed to give him pleasure as he said it, drawing it out as if wanting it to last longer on his tounge. "The flames will consume you, Alexei. You know not what you do."

"Then the flames shall consume us both," Alexei spat in return.

"The games we've played till now are over," Dr. Ackerman said, his smile fading once more and his arrogant tone turning to one of hate. "You've past the point of no return by stepping down here. There's no going back now."

"I past that point long ago," Alexei replied, staring down at the woman discarded on the floor. "...you bastard."

"She meant nothing, Alexei," Dr. Ackerman said. "No more than any one of you...no more than any being on this pitiful planet, this worthless empire, this cursed universe. They all will meet her fate. Watch your world collapse before you and see the price you pay for a revenge that will go unfulfilled. See the price they all pay for you."

"Your life is worth no more," Alexei countered.

"Hypocrit," Ackerman accused. "You said my death means everything to you and therefor my life does as well...for if I live you have failed, and if I die your life will be pointless. You lose either way."

"I'm not important anymore," Alexei replied.

"So you'd kill me for everyone else?" Dr. Ackerman laughed. "How honorable of you. Such petty nonsense, liar. This is for you, no one else. Admit it and fall to your knees alone. At least before you had a semblence of honor."

"I have no room for honor, no time for decency right now," Alexei said. "Your life is worthless, Robert, but your death means more to this world and others than you could possibly comprehend. Of course this is for me, but I am far from alone. It's no less for anyone else."

"You're trying to stall for time, Alexei. We're at that moment where words run dry, that moment where speech disappears into silence. Let your actions speak for you. Let them say what your words cannot."

Alexei fumed, his rage building up from within his being, his soul. He raised his PHKs and fired, the phased anti-viral rounds piercing Dr. Ackerman's skin and tearing through his flesh.

Something was wrong, the doctor noticed...these blasts...they hurt him. Crying out in pain...yes...it was indeed pain...Dr. Ackerman raised his arms bringing any metal nearby to him in liquid form. Alexei guns, a synthetic polymer, remained fireing in his hands, so the doctor used the metal as a shield deflecting the blasts away from him as he escaped into his shuttlepod....deflecting the blasts straight at Emily...

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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Dr. Robert Ackerman
CEO, President, and Lead Developer
NiMBUS Biotechnologies

There was a slight vibration in Commanders Jeffery’s mounted Bolter, as the shells ripped masses apart, the anti personal weapons of each side of the tank did the same. However in the end it was of little use, there was thousands more waiting to replace those that he struck down, with either fear no desire these creatures truly were the most horrific creatures that he had ever seen. It was every soldier’s worst fear, the dead had returned to take their revenge. There was but a handful of Rebel and Tappee soldier left to fight, and their were going to end their days with the honour and tradition that was expected of them.

A quite tick told him that he was out of ammunition; the automatic system ejected the old cartridge out and replaced it with another. Looking down he noted that this was his last cartridge. Taking a moment he pulled his pistol from his side, and set it so that the last round could only be fire with his override, that round was for him, he was not about to become one of things.

He had heard the rumours of what happened in Tatania, but to actually have see it first hand and see the carnage that it brought was quiet another.

It was his job as a soldier to do what was told of him, but even questioned the government motives for going to war to stop a single man. With the truth now charging direct at him, there was now question in his mind that Dr Ackerman had to be truly stopped Jefferys mind flashed back to his days back at the academy when he was learning of a ancient earth war called World War Two, and how the allied force at the end discovered the cruel fate that had claimed the lives of so many innocent people. Would the universe suffer the same fate if they failed to today, he could only wonder. However, the thought gave him strength, more then ever he though he was capable of, strength he tied to pass along to his men.

“Fight them” he tried to yell over the carnage “Fight them these demons with your very souls”

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Adam Jefferys

As Alexei and Henry rounded the corner the found that the object of their obsession with his back turned to them, taking full advantage of the situation Alexei brought his rifle to bare.

In a heartbeat the Doctors head exploded, but to no avail. Much to Henry’s horror Dr Ackerman simply turned around to face them. "I had rather hoped that you would come," as he spoke his face quickly healed, returning back to normal "...and now, my wish comes true...you four have truly made my night."


Henry began to worry a bit, he the walked directly into a trap. Behind Dr Ackerman He could see Emily, now he understood she was the bait. “Free her!” the anger in his voice was very evident.

"Your lover makes a passionate plea," Replied the Doctor as he turned to face Emily, on some twisted level it seemed that he was actually enjoying this.

"Closing time, Robert," Alexei said, raising his guns once more. "It's over."

Quickly the two began to debate the real reason behind Alexei’s actions, as they did Henry began the quietly move around to get to Emily.

Alexei and Dr Ackerman exchanged heated words. "You're trying to stall for time, Alexei. We're at that moment where words run dry, that moment where speech disappears into silence. Let your actions speak for you. Let them say what your words cannot." Finally said the Doctor.

Alexei overcome by anger brought his rifle to his shoulder firing a single round, which caught the Doctor in the shoulder. He yelled out in pain upon the realization that he could indeed be hurt. In an act of desperation he brought what ever metal he could to his side to form a shield. Alexei unleashed another punishing volley as Dr Ackerman attempted to flee, round which were easily defected. However, much to Henry’s horror the shot were deflected right towards Emily.

In an act of desperation Henry began running towards Emily. Suddenly it seemed as if time itself had slowed down to a near stand still, while Henry moved about freely. Out of the corner of his eye he became aware of another presence in the room, standing in a corner was a single man dressed entirely in black, it did not take him long to realize how the man was.

Standing in the corner was the Statuo, in Tappee mythology it was believed that the Statuo would appear when ever a life hung in the balance, and the Statuo would offer one a choice. Henry now understood, the Statuo was now giving him a choice to which life would be taken, Emily’s or his.

Running at full speed he reached Emily at the last possible moment pushing her out of the way, his action came at a price. His momentum had carried him in to the line of fire.

Henry clasped as he took multiple shot to the chest. Overcome by pain he collapsed to the ground fighting for breath. As the Doctor left the others ran over.

“No, No” yelled Emily, her voice shaky “This can’t be happening” She kneeled down beside him. “Your going to be OK”

“It’s to late for me” said Henry as began to cough some blood, he looked over At Alexei “I have to favour to ask you my old friend. First kill that soulless bastard, it falls on you and you alone” he paused again to cough, he had already lost most of the feeling in his body “Second, please take care of Emily for me.”

Emily went to say something, but couldn’t, tears were running down her face.

The ground shock violently “Now go” proclaim Henry, his voice was weak “It would be long until this facility sinks into the sand.”

Realizing that he was right Éclair grabbed Emily “We have to go” she began to pull Emily back.
“No not like this” yelled Emily as she fought Éclair.

Éclair was much stronger then the average human, but even she had trouble pulling Emily away.

Laying on the floor Henry watched as everyone left the room, with the exception of the Statuo he was alone. Casually the Statuo made its way over to Henry, and kneeled down. “I see that you made your choice” said the creature with little emotion in its voice.

“Why?” asked Henry. His voice was weak.

“A life had to given today” coldly answered the creature “But we let you decide which one it was. When God wants one to live, then no one can hurt them. However, when God wants one to die, then no one can save them. And today one of you had to die” The was a brief pause and the room shock again “Now are you ready to go”

“Yes” answered Henry as the last air passed out his lungs.

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Henry Kobe

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Emily William

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Eclair

It was not the time to laugh, Rei told himself as his shuttle sped towards the final human stronghold on Steel Moon. There was nothing funny about death, and even less humor in those that were dead rising up once more to continue their battle, but the irony of humanity still cracked him up at times. Here they were, fighting and losing to their own creations, their own horrific imaginations come to life.

Still, he himself was victim of yet another historical irony. This race, humanity, had long persecuted his people, murdering so many that only four pure Aurals remained. Now, those four were rushing off to save a species that had hated and feared them for so long. Rei knew not why he would fight for their survival, only that he would, and he would well.

“I’m a fan of man,” he chuckled, scolding himself once more for not taking the upcoming events seriously. At one time, he had killed his fair share of humanity…simply for vengeance. He was about to protect that species from a man with a similar goal, but one who seemed quite more malevolent.

They exited their craft quickly as it touched down, slicing their way towards to near-by hill where the humans remained with their scythes and sabers. Rei’s superiority made the fiends an inadequate challenge, yet their sheer numbers shocked him, sending through his body his first sense of doubt on the mission.

“Commander,” Rei addressed Commander Eric Vinzer as the man reloaded his weapon. The other three Aurals scattered off to different parts of the hill, supporting the fight silently wherever support was needed.

“Yes?” Eric looked up and was shocked to see the silver-haired warrior who was not there one minute ago. “What…what are you?”

But Rei’s attention was elsewhere, a gap forming in the human ranks where Eric had once been. Now, the hellspawn where reaching the soldiers…eating the soldiers. Rei drew his long sword in his right hand and closed his eyes. His battle would begin now.

Letting out a cry of strength, Rei swung his blade upwards, cutting the risen demon in two and dropping it to the ground. Its body gave way to three more who Rei felled by crossing the sword back across his body. Holding the weapon with two hands behind his head, Rei ended the life of another with a powerful downward slash, before stepping forwards with his right leg and slicing two others in half. Letting go of his immaculate style in favor of effectiveness, Rei continued to hack at the devilish corpses, pushing the advancing line back down the hill.

Eric let loose a wave of energy from his PHAR, followed by two plasma grenades that melted all that they touched. Suddenly, he was grabbed from behind by cold, rotten hands across his throat. Quickly unsheathing his dagger which he carried on his chest, Eric spun and stabbed the zombie through the face, dropping it to the ground. Reaching down to retrieve his weapon, Eric looked up only to see that their position had been compromised, their enemy advancing...

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Rei Warheit

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Commander Eric Vinzer
XO of the 2nd Marines

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Doctor Ackerman's ship had breached the atmosphere shortly after its launch, however an unexpected passenger had boarded prior to its departure. Now Alexei crawled through the bowels of the small vessel in space towards what very well could be his final destination.

"Don't think that you can sneak up on me," a familiar voice gloated as Alexei reached the cabin. "I would have left you there...I really wanted to...but I had no time to stop."

"A pity," Alexei muttered, aiming his PHK pistol at the head of his enemy.

"Oh put it away, Alexei," Dr. Ackerman replied, shaking his head. "As if I hadn't adapted to the toxin already. I must admit though...genious design. Worthy of even my handywork. I'm sure you won't mind if I steal your idea when you're dead."

"When I die you will have long been forgotten," Alexei shot back, gravely serious, not faultering in his aim.

"Wrong again, my friend," Dr. Ackerman laughed. "...and to think that of all possible, you have become my adversary. Sure you have a strong will to survive and a good dose of luck, but you'd think I'd be deserving of a...better nemesis."

"Perhaps fate's just laughing in your face," Alexei remarked, holding his ground.

"I own fate," the doctor replied. "...and I've defeated it. How, after all these years, after all these wounds...am I still alive? I did it. I did it all. I've destroyed death, I've created life. Look at me, Alexei! Look your Christ in the eyes!"

"You were far from alone," Alexei said, trying to trim the man's ego. "All those scientists...Leon Williams..."

"Worthless fools," Ackerman spat. "And Leon...he's tried for 300 years to kill me throughout all of time...and he's never gotten this close. You Alexei...this is your second...or is it your third?"

"I'm not counting holograms," Alexei responded in reference to Dr. Ackerman's "appearance" in Tappee's NiMBUS building.

"I'm not either," Dr. Ackerman stated, a sinister grin spreading across his jaw. "You think Nemerov handed you to me so that I could babysit? You think you're so lucky because you're just that damn good? I took what you were and improved it ten fold! Aural blood, Aural DNA...it didn't kill you for some reason that's now unimportant. From there, you were immune to all the nasty effects of the different Q-virus strands, while reaping the benefits. You were my lab rat, my trial that showed me how to create who I am today. You showed me the error in my method."

"The errors?" Alexei asked, dropping his guard and his gun slightly.

"You had far too much Aural DNA inside of you," Dr. Ackerman explained. "Your blood would destroy the Q-virus in days. Sure from that we discovered the cure, but other than that you showed me what not to do. By using less Aural DNA, I was able to create an equalibrium between the virus and the Aural defenses. Once this was achieved, the power...my power...was endless."

"No glass ceiling," Alexei questioned, stalling for time once more.

"None yet," Ackerman grinned, quite pleased with himself.

"Congradulations," Alexei spat. "Today's the day you reach it."

"Alexei all creatures must become what they were meant to be," Dr. Ackerman continued. "You were a lab failure...and for that...you will always be a failure. You could not protect your mother, you could not stop your father, you could not even live your own life...instead letting generals and politicians run it for you. You could not save Chris from my clutches or from his thirst for power. You could not save that fated city from which you somehow escaped. You could not prevent war, even contributing to it with your claims of horror seen. Ultimately you blamed me for your failures, Alexei...but even then you could not gain your pitiful retribution against me, failing yet again. Your true father did not want you and you only discovered that truth as he collapsed at my hands. You failed to protect those you love and those who love you. Tell me, Alexei...will killing me make up for it? Will killing me silence the screams of those you've killed and those you've failed to protect? No Alexei, your cause is a false one...and for that reason you'll fail your final time, begging me for life while dying in my arms."

"I'd beg you for nothing," Alexei replied, his voice and gun arm raising.

"We'll see," Dr. Ackerman muttered, stepping fowards. "We'll see how much you beg..."

Sensing that it was now or never, Alexei unloaded his gun into the doctor but the weapon had no permanent effect. Instead, Dr. Ackerman grabbed Alexei with his inhuman grip and threw him out the side of the ship, into the freezing vacuum of space. However, Alexei held on, and the two of them tumbled out into the darkness...among the stars. Dr. Ackerman quickly pushed Alexei off of him, sending his nemesis spinning in the opposite direction.

"Don't worry," Dr. Ackerman said, pointing to his watch. "I can control my ship from here." Somehow, Alexei managed to slow himself down and read the doctor's lips. "You on the other hand," the doctor mouthed as Alexei gasped for air, not realizing that he had already survived this far. "You will die out here."

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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Dr. Robert Ackerman
CEO, President, and Lead Developer
NiMBUS Biotechnologies

"What are you suggesting we do then, Commander?" Valkare shouted over the wail of gunfire and souls. "Stop fighting?"

Back to back with Katrina, the General's answer made Lt.Cmdr. Mark Andrews' comment on the number of men remaining seem stupid. After all, there wasn't a being alive on the planet who hadn't realized that their salvation came in the form of whatever weapon they currently held.

Katrina shivvered within her ODIN Armor, frightened yet pressing on with what had to be done. Fighting was not her forte; enemy fighters never had faces. Now, as she saw the results of her firing as the enemy staggered back and collapsed on the ground, she felt a power within her that she did not want...the power over lives. Shaking, she retreated back to Mark, willing to give anything to be held in his arms one more.

The occult inched foward, giving the militants plenty of time to ponder how much longer they would remain, and what it would feel like to die. Mark, however, didn't have the luxury of being selfish. Katrina was his life, his love, and he lived for more than just himself. He lived for her.

He had never been one to find dying together particularly romantic. Life was to be lived to its fullest, death and fear the only enemies to this notion. Now, numb to the horrors he shot at, all that was left to do was die. Mark hated this restriction on his life, imposed on him by fate. He had so much to live for...and so little time left it seemed.

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

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Lt. Commander Mark Andrews
"Raptor Zero"
15th Fighter Squadron

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Lieutenant Katrina Brady
"Raptor 1"
15th Fighter Squadron

Commander Eric Vinzer stumbled backwards as the ocean of flesh advanced, only to have the tide broken before him by PHAR fire. Two different hands grabbed his suit, lifting him to his feet and turning him around.

"Get your ass up," Lt. Sean Athens screamed over the comm as his blasts tore into the dead walking towards them. "Come on you fuckers! Try to touch me!"

"YAAAAH!" Lt. Joseph Frost wailed, letting loose upon the demons before him with weapon's fire.

Rifle's failing, command broken, the horror still moved towards them. Looking at the two men who saved his life, Eric raised his index and pinky fingers on one hand, signalling hand-to-hand combat. Joseph nodded, dropping his gun and pulling out his dagger, but Sean held on to his PHAR, waving it before him like a sword.

Eric stabbed the fiend in front of him before pulling out the knife and throwing it at the head of another. In the ODIN Armor, he grabbed the skull of one, crushing it between his hands as its mouth reached for the flesh it could not find. He spun, elbowing another hard in the temple and dropping it to the ground.

Joseph turned one around before slitting its throat, blood spraying in all directions. With the hand he held his dagger in, he punched another one in the face before reversing the direction of his fist and slashing it as he pulled his hand back. Switching his grip on the dagger so that the blade came out of the bottom of his fist, he came down hard on the top of one's head, driving the metal through the top of its decaying skull.

Broken PHAR in hand, Sean clubbed the fiend closest to him, knocking its head clean off its shoulders. Sliding one hand up, he bashed the face of another with the rifle's butt. They reached for him, their broken, bloody fingers scraping off his armor. Somehow, one managed to drag him down and climb on top of him.

Through the viewholes in his helmet, Sean could see the gaping mouth, the soul-less eyes. Before the other two could help him, he screamed "Fuck off" and shattered its skull with his helmet by way of a headbutt. Scrambling to his feet, he joined the other two as they huddled together.

All at the same time, the three of them tossed their plasma grenades at the enemy, melting the flesh off of their rotting bones. Eric pulled out a lighter and heaved it towards the advancing lines. The flames ignited the flesh and the plasma, sending up a cloud of pitch black smoke.

From the fire emerged the undead, their bodies charred and still ablaze. Damnation had come upon them...the tides of hell rising...

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Commander Eric Vinzer
XO of the 2nd Marines

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Lieutenant Sean Athens
27th M.I., 2nd Marines

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Lieutenant Joseph Frost
Vehicle Specialist/Sniper,
1st Marines

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The Apparition and the rest of Zephyr's fleet, having stopped off at Steel Butterfly to find the capital in ruins, picked up a certain member of the resistance who begged them to bring her along.

Now, Allison's eyes were glued to the window in her quarters as guards kept her inside of her room. She wouldn't have left if they asked her too. Alexei was alive, she could feel it.

It was Zephyr's turn to give back to his people, to save them from what he once had allowed. He had left too late, and now he realized the pain that he once caused. Standing ready on the bridge, Sky Marshall Michael Zephyr was about to make things right.

"Captain," He commanded. "Contact the Resistance's flagship. Inform Captain Mitchell of our intent."

"Roger that, Sky Marshall," Captain Lusec Apakoh replied, opening a channel.

.:Outgoing Transmission:.
Channel Open

"Captain William Mitchell of the starship Predator, this is Captain Lusec Apakoh of the Apparition. Sky Marshall Michael Zephyr, along with Colonel William Sharp, wish to provide our services to aid your cause. Once side-less in this war, the Sky Marshall, with the support of each man in the fleet, wish to redeem ourselves. It is our understanding that the situation on Steel Moon has gotten out of control. Please tell us how we may help."

Channel Sustained

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On the bridge of the Predator, Captain William Mitchell was surprised to find that not only someone was hailing him, it was Michael Zephyr of all people. Mitchell's espression turned grave, until the communications officer informed him of Mitchell's intent. He nodded, opening the channel.

.:Continuous Transmission:.
Channel Open

"Sky Marshall," Mitchell replied, ignoring all of his instincts that told him these men were hostile and not to be trusted. "We cannot land any more men on the planet. It had been overrun by the bastard creations of NiMBUS. I fear that we may lose the planet, not to the war, but for good...allowing NiMBUS to regroup once we leave. We have already lost so many men..."

Channel Sustained

Nodding, Zephyr cut the channel and opened a comm link to Colonel Sharp. "Colonel," he ordered. "Prepare Operation Ifrit."

"Sir," Captain Apakoh objected, pointing to the viewscreen. "I re-scanned the area of this black spot on the planet. I got confirmed lifesigns...we can't use Ifrit yet..."

Obviously upset, Zephyr thought for a moment before issuing his command. "Captain I'm giving you thirty minutes to assemble a team, land it there, and rescue those bastards stranded...be it they're still alive when you get there. After that Ifrit will consume those sands with flame, torching all that lives. Do not be there when it fires. I do not want you lost...but I won't delay it once it's ready..."

"Yessir," Captain Apakoh replied, saluting before running off the bridge. If those men on the surface were now his allies, he wasn't about to let them die.

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Sky Marshall Michael Zephyr
Former Commander,
Imperial Fleet and Marines

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Colonel William Sharp
15th Imperial Marines

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Captain Lusec Apakoh
81st Imperial Marines

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Captain William Mitchell
CO of the Predator

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Ensign Allison Wilson
Helmsman of the Outlander

Through his HUD display Commander Jefferys watched as another one of his soldier fell. The soulless horde had engulfed them; they were out of ammo, and almost out of hope.

Despite the overwhelming numbers, and almost certain death, the remnants of the allied force fought valiantly forward. Whether it shear spite, or determination each of them fought with every once of strength that they had.

Jefferys had long ago run out of ammo, minus a single round for himself should the need arise, like so many others he was now fighting the demons hand to hand.

One of the creatures made a jumping leap at him. With little hesitation he slammed the butt of his rifle into the creatures chest, stopping it mid flight. Using the momentum to his advantage he swung the rifle around with the barrel making a direct connection with the creatures head. Blood splattered everywhere creature’s head exploded like a watermelon.

However, before Jefferys had time to celebrate his victory another fiend was his back. There was a brief struggle as Jefferys fought to get it off his back, fortunately for a nearby soldier ram his bayonet through the fiend rib cage. It flayed around on the ground for a moment until Jefferys put his boat through its skull.

They were running out of time, and fast

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[OOC: This is the one-year anniversary of this saga. Today, Dec. 12, a year ago, was the beginning of Realm of the Risen.]

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As Captain Lusec Apakoh's dropship plunged towards the surface, he kept his gun close and his soldiers ready. No one had been able to land for eighteen hours now, but Apakoh wasn't planning on landing either. He would rescue the thirty so men, from both Tappee and the Resistance, that remained on the surface while his ship stayed in the air. The bottom hatch burst open two stories above the militant's final stronghold, and the rescuers followed the ladder down onto the hill.

"General," Apakoh saluted, recieving a loaded weapon pointed at him in return.

"Captain, I don't have the time for this nonsense," General Valkare replied. "Don't tempt me. I won't hesitate to..."

"General I'm here to save you," Apakoh replied, amazed that Valkare wasn't seeing what he was there for.

"Well good for you, Captain," Valkare continued, firing off two shots and dropping two zombies to the sand. "But I hate to break it to you...ten more men isn't going to do a whole hell of a lot here..."

"Damnit General," Apakoh said, breaking the chain of command while pointing upwards at the ship. "I'm here to rescue your ass. GET UP THERE!"

Valkare glared at the Captain for a few seconds before turning on his comm link. "LETS GO MEN!" He screamed over the microphone in his helmet. "TODAY'S NOT OUR DAY TO DIE!"

The ten followers of Zephyr, including Apakoh, helped fend off the fiends as the soldiers from Tappee and the Resistance climbed the latter to the dropship one by one. As Commander Jefferys of Tappee reached safety in the ship hovering two stories above the bastard hill, Apakoh, Valkare, and Eric sprinted from the horrors to the ladder.

"We're going to blow this place to hell," Apakoh tried to explain as they ran, jumping onto the ladder with Valkare close behind. He checked the time on his visor. "In five minutes, fire will consume this worthless planet."

Pushing himself onward, Eric grabbed the lowest bar of the ladder as the heavily overweighted dropship took off from the planet, the hordes of horrors finally taking the hill. One by one he climbed the steps, until the ship began to shake. The tremors were small at first, gradually becoming larger as they ascended through the atmosphere.

"We're experiencing some turbulance," Eric heard the pilot announce over his comm. "Hold on..."

But it was that request that Eric could not follow. His grip slipped, and he found himself to be falling back to the planet, far too high in the air to survive contact with the survace.

Apakoh was not about to lose one now, and nodding to Private Nero Applegate, the two of them jumped out the hatch in pursuit of Commander Vinzer. Catching him ten stories above the ground, they deployed their stabilizers and gently glided down to the zombies in wait. The bony fingers scratched the surface of their armor as they were smothered in bodies that could not get through their thick protection.

"Apakoh to Century," The Captain said over his comm while struggling with the sea of flesh above him. "Return and retrieve us. I repeat, return and retrieve."

"Negative, Captain," the pilot replied, much to Apakoh's horror. "This ship can't take much more. We'd be risking everyone's life for only three men...besides...the planet's going ablaze in under four minutes."

"WHAT?" Apakoh screamed, his mind racing. They were going to just leave him there. His own men, betraying him out of fear. To his left, Eric continued to struggle, hacking at the limbs and heads with his dagger, however on Apakoh's right, Nero had all but given up. "Come on, Private," Apakoh ordered, feeling strange about how it was going to say it. "Continue to fight..."

"I...I can't, sir..." Applegate stammered. "I'm not going to die like this...I don't want to be eaten!" Slowly, Applegate pulled out his dagger and stuck the end of it underneath his neckfold. "They left us...those bastards. These fiends don't have a choice. They were made this way...they became this way. Our men...they chose to kill us...to leave us." With a short cry escaping his mouth and into the comm link, Private Applegate thrust his dagger through his neck and into his brain.

"Fuck..." Apakoh seemed to whisper as the timer on his facemask neared the one-minute mark. Even if they were to return...

"Captain Apakoh?" A voice, unknown to the captain, shouted over the comm. "Commander Vinzer? Eric, are you there man?" The roar of the dropship engines was unmistakable. They had returned.

"YES YES!" Apakoh shouted. "This is he!"

"The lifesigns are scrambled," The voice, which Eric identified as Lt.Cmdr. Mark Andrews, replied. "We need a signal." Hearing the conversation, Eric sliced off the head of a zombie and threw it up in the air. Andrews had seen it.

"Hurry!" Apakoh ordered. "We have less than a minute!"

The ladder was dropped once more, and Apakoh and Eric grabbed hold as the ship took off. Lifting up into the air again, the ladder was quickly pulled up, bringing the two of them into the ship.

Apakoh was horrified. The nine men he had brought were being guarded by Sean, Joseph, and Commander Jefferys at gunpoint. Mark was flying the ship, with Valkare and Katrina behind each of his shoulders. Looking around, the others seemed edgy, piled and stuffed in too tightly to move.

"We had some trouble," Valkare confessed. "But even if your men were about you leave you...I'd be damned if I was."

Taking off his helmet, Eric grabbed Apakoh by the shoulders. "That was a damn brave thing you did," he said, smiling from relief and thankfulness. "Going after one man...I don't know if I would have..."

"Of course you would've," Apakoh replied, smiling in return. Looking at his men, the smile quickly faded. "Gentlemen these are your brothers, your commrades. Brothers risk their lives for each other, just as we have today." He sighed, drawing his PHAR from a weapons locker. "Today we end this war. Today we join together as we were meant to be to ensure that we have not only a future...but a prosperous one. Those who cannot see this...those who cannot accept this...and those who cannot respect this..." He cocked his weapon, setting it on automatic. The guards stood back. "...have no place in the future that I speak of...our future." Staring into the souls of each of his men, Apakoh gunned all nine of them down as the Century returned to the Apparition.

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In the orbit of Steel Moon, Zephy ordered the Apparition to begin Operation Ifrit. A stream of excited tritium and deuterium nuclei was fired at the atmosphere of the planet. Hitting the thin air, the nuclei then fused into helium, releasing tremendous energy at the moment of impact. This energy ignited the atmosphere of the planet, engulfing the globe in a firey fury. The flames rained down upon the surface, wiping clean the horrors and the history from the surface. The planet would be given a new start...a new life...although not any time soon. Terra-forming was still in its earliest days, and the charred remains of a planet were far from its best candidate.

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

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Commander Eric Vinzer
XO of the 2nd Marines

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Lt. Commander Mark Andrews
"Raptor Zero"
15th Fighter Squadron

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Sky Marshall Michael Zephyr
Former Commander,
Imperial Fleet and Marines

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Captain Lusec Apakoh
81st Imperial Marines

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Private Nero Applegate
81st Imperial Marines

Éclair threw Emily into the one of the shuttles seat. Shortly after they had separated with Alexei they had found a shuttle, which now was there only way off this God forsaken planet.

Emily tired to jump from her seat, but was quickly pushed back down. “We have to go back for him!” she yelled as she landed in the seat.

Ignoring her Éclair started the shuttle ignition sequence, and began the pre launch cycle. After a few moments the shuttle lifted off the ground.

Realizing that her words were falling on deaf ears Emily tried a change of tactics. “Fine then, just let me out. At least let me die here with him.”

“Shut up” barked Éclair, she turned to face Emily eye to “Maybe if it was just your life on the line then I would consider it. But if I let you go there would be two lives lost, not one. He died to save you and your child, don’t let it be a waste.

An uneasy silence filled the cabin as Emily returned to seat, and began crying uncontrollably. With a certain amount of grace Éclair pulled the nose of the shuttle up, and hammer the throttle. Several minutes later the craft made the transition from atmosphere, to the inner reaches of space.

Struggling for air while tumbling in the frozen void of space, Alexei fought his fate...fought his death. After all that had happened, after all he had went through...he was not as ready to die as he thought he was. No, he realized, his life meant more than just killing Dr. Ackerman. But why? Why was he special? Why did the experiments work on him? Why did he survive so many times...only to die here...

Dr. Ackerman's fist brought him back to reality swifty, connecting with his jaw and sending him sprawling backwards. The small red bubbles of blood floated before his eyes, unfrozen in the black vaccuum of the stars. The blood! His blood...Aural blood...was it keeping him alive?

Alexei concentrated on stopping his spin, and to his amazement he succeeded, only to have the doctor connect with his face again, this time right above his temple. Screaming, his voice unheard in space, Alexei somehow propelled himself towards the doctor, ramming his shoulder into the man's gut and knocking him backwards.

Dr. Ackerman seemed surprised, but was very much in control of both the battle and his emotions. Flying back, Dr. Ackerman ran his fist into Alexei's midsection and flew past, quickly turning to return and punch Alexei in the kidney from behind. Keeping his wits about him, Alexei grabbed the doctor's fist on his next pass, swinging the demon around and slicing off his arm at the elbow with his dagger.

Screaming, Dr. Ackerman grabbing his bloody stub only to have a new hand grow before both of their eyes. In his fury, the doctor once again began his magnitism, drawing all metals towards his core, including Alexei's dagger which stabbed him in the chest, seemingly dealing no damage whatsoever.

The doctor's arm in his left hand, Alexei soared towards the demon and connected forearms with him. Grabbing and throwing fists, the two of them connected rarely as both men were on the offensive and defensive at the same time. Swiftly, Dr. Ackerman kicked Alexei hard in the knee, which rotated his head downwards, straight into the doctor's waiting fist. Alexei's head flung backwards, but keeping his wits, his kicked Dr. Ackerman in the chin as his feet flew up, sending them both spiraling away from each other.

Out of the corner of his eye, Alexei caught the doctor panting as he tried to stablize himself. Taking this as his cue, Alexei swooped in for the attack, catching the doctor off-guard. Grabbing the dagger in the doctor's chest, Alexei forced the blade upwards towards the fiend's throat, lifting both of the men higher into space. Enraged, Dr. Ackerman grabbed Alexei's wrists and tried to keep the blade down, but his once-omnipotent strength was now no match for the rage of Alexei's ancestry. The blade, as well as Alexei's hands, tore through the doctor's skull, as blood floated through space in jell-o like shapes.

Misshapen and definately injured, the doctor made himself a magnet once again, the effects of which could be felt all over the sector. Astroids and ships alike were attracted to this man, this devil, and Alexei was no exception. Chest to chest, the doctor reformed his face and spoke so that Alexei could see what he was saying.

"Don't you see?" he mouthed. "Without me, there is no cure."

"Bullshit," Alexei returned, elegant as always. "You're the reason there is no cure. You've blocked every advance along the way. Aurals are the cure...I'm the cure..."

"No," Dr. Ackerman replied, the smile returning to his face. "You're dead..."

Alexei turned, only to see the shuttle they had left the planet in speeding towards the two of them. Instead of letting the shuttle collide with them, Alexei grabbed the doctor and threw him towards the ship, the magnetic forces drawing them together. The doctor's body made a sickening thud as it collided with the metal of the starship, and yet the broken doctor was far from dead.

It would only be minutes before he was healed once again...only minutes before the doctor could once again manipulate the magnetic fields he had control over...so Alexei had to act fast. Holding the doctor's arm in his hands, he examined the watch which controlled the shuttle. Silently, swiftly, Alexei activated the ship's Subspace Fold Drive and without delay engaged the engines.

The shuttle itself seemed to bend and stretch with the starry void before disappearing forever into the realm of subspace. However, this was far from Alexei's goal, as prisons could be broken out of, so he brought the shuttle back into this world in a very specific place - a star, millions of lightyears away.

From his currently location, floating in space, Alexei squinted to see the explosion in the dark sky. The ship had returned to normal space right in the core of the star, causing the sun to become unstable. It exploded in a grand display as stars normally do, the doctor finally dead, the evil finally defeated...the horror finally over.

Now as Alexei floated in space, his lifelong goal had been completed...and yet he felt far from fulfilled. His climax had been reached, and yet the ending felt odd, uncomfortable. All at once the thoughts that he had been trying to suppress awakened in his mind. Had they won? Looking down upon the planet, covered in thick black smoke, he couldn't tell the outcome of the battle, much less the war. Had Eric survived? Joseph? Allison? The others?

A single tear slowly inched down his burn and bloody face as he slowly rotated backwards in the dark void which he now resided. Where had he been the last two years? What had happened to him? Who was this man, one so filled with hate and rage, that had come to him and taken so much of his life from him? The sunlight reflected off the tear as it floated beside him, and he saw himself in the reflection, broken and beaten...and yet he was the one victorious...

What had his victory cost him? What had it cost everyone else? He had said once that everything necessary was worth it...but now...looking over everything...was it?

Floating in space in merely a trenchcoat, t-shirt, and pants, Alexei shivvered, noticing the cold for the first time. How was he still alive? How would he get home?

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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Dr. Robert Ackerman
CEO, President, and Lead Developer
NiMBUS Biotechnologies

From the safety of the bridge Dodalla watched, as the planet below was reborn. The irony of the situation was not lost on her, the planet that once house pure evil had been now been destroyed, wiped clean. It was a clean slate and now had a chance for a new future, a future that now would be determined by the new government of Steel Butterfly. For the first time in the two years since all this had began there was now hope of a new a better future.

Her thoughts were interrupted “Ma’am I’ve got a single ship inbound, they are requesting permission to dock, they have sent the proper code. According to sensor the two on board are Emily Williams and Ensign Wetherspoon.”

The sudden turn of events took Dodalla back for a moment “Clear them for dock in shuttle bay six” Without hesitation Dodalla got up from her chair and began the journey to the shuttle bay.

Arriving just in time Dodalla watched as the shuttle complete its docking procedure. As the atmosphere returned to the bay, so did Dodalla. Patiently she waited as the ramp on the shuttle open, and the two women walked out. From what she could both appeared to be physically ok, but from the look on Emily face she could see that there was something that was wrong. With Henry’s visible absence, it did not take her long to put two and two together. “Henry?” she asked as the young Ensign walked by

Éclair just shock her head “He didn’t make it” glancing over her shoulder she looked back at Emily “She taken it pretty hard”

As Éclair walked away Dodalla turned her attention to Emily. “If there is anything that I can do, just let me know.”

Look up at the Admiral Emily’s eye’s were still filled with tears, she now had no choice but to accept Henry’s fate “Thank, but for the moment I just want to be alone.”

Nodding in agreement Dodalla gently placed her hand on the woman’s should “Crewmen would please escort Miss Williams to her quarters” Dodalla knew all too well Emily’s pains, and she knew that the only thing that could help the young woman was time.

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Ensign Wetherspoon
Aka Agent Éclair

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Emily Williams


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Admiral Dodalla

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"There he is, sir!" She screamed, pointing at the viewscreen. Sky Marshall Michael Zephyr followed her arm to her finger to what she was pointing at. Indeed, out in space, there was a man...unfrozen...alive. "Right there!"

"Yes, Ensign I see that," Zephyr replied, intrigued by this man. Undoubtedly it was Alexei Ivanova, one he had heard so much about, but he could never have believed...

"Captain on the bridge," someone said as a sweaty and angered Captain Apakoh stormed towards the Sky Marshall.

"I already read the report," Zephyr responded, returning Apakoh's salute. "...and while I doubt that you did the right thing...you did what had to be done. Sometimes that's more important..."

"It worries me, sir," Apakoh continued. "How do we expect to..."

"Nothing heals quickly," Zephyr said, looking at the person on the viewscreen who seemed to be swimming in the emptiness of space. "Minds...nations...they heal the slowest."

Apakoh too stared at the screen and his jaw dropped. A quick glance to Zephyr told him that he was in fact seeing what he thought he was.

"Sir, please," Allison begged. "Bring him in!"

"Make it so," Zephyr ordered the Captain, who nodded and turned to leave.

Some time later, Alexei had been treated for his wounds and sat awake in sickbay. He had travelled many moonless nights to reach this point, cold and weary in his quest. Now he simply wondered what he had done. He had waited for so long, but now he was frightened by something as simple as human contact.

His fears were realized as Allison burst through the doors, grabbing him in her arms and holding him tight while bursting into tears. He tried to explain, he tried to tell her how he felt, but...

"Shhh..." was what she commanded, and he listened, his arms slowly wrapping around her tightly as she collapsed into his chest. Gently, Alexei pushed her hair back and wiped her eyes and she gazed up at him from within his battered arms.

As they kissed Alexei's mind stopped racing. His thoughts were focused once more...his emotions stable. Perhaps...perhaps she'd never understand...but perhaps it didn't matter.

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Sky Marshall Michael Zephyr
Former Commander,
Imperial Fleet and Marines

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Captain Lusec Apakoh
81st Imperial Marines

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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Ensign Allison Wilson
Helmsman of the Outlander

After the congradulations had grown stale, Allison was still by his side in sickbay when Captain Leon Williams asked her to leave momentarily. She was hesitant, but left content with a promise that Alexei would see her soon. After she left, Joseph and Eric entered the room as well, each embracing the savior of the Empire, unable to hold their emotions.

"I...I never thought that..." Eric stumbed through his words. "After I knew you all those...you're really something...you know that?" Alexei smiled, unable to reply.

"Mark's coming later," Joseph said, grinning from ear to ear. "Katrina wouldn't give him up just yet," he laughed.

"I hear you guys are all winning the Silver Falcon," Alexei said, referring to the highest military honor given while trying to resume friendships he had long abused. Less than one hundred Silver Falcons had ever been handed out in the two thousand year history of the Empire, and now thirty-some soldiers were to recieve it.

"Damn well deserve it," Eric laughed, gathering himself at last. "I...I missed you, man..."

"Yeah," Alexei nodded, his emotions once again running haywire. "I missed you all...its just...you were always there...It was me...I was the one who was always gone..."

"Don't worry about it," Leon replied, cutting the conversation short. "You did what you had to. It was your place...and although I hate to use the word...your destiny." Alexei stared at the sun-glassed Captain, unable to truely understand what he meant.

"The future?" he asked. "Right?"

"More than that, Alexei," Leon explained. "All of time. Dr. Ackerman did so much more than kill...he killed so many people...across so many different eras. Dr. Ackerman was almost invincible. Alexei I know it has to be hard for you to comprehend...but while he, and NiMBUS have been around for years in your time period, the doctor was still in his infancy in regard to the future. He grew so much more powerful, so much stronger...there was no other way. You stopped the horror as close to the beginning as one could...without taking away the small amounts of good that NiMBUS has done...and you did it without one of us telling you to...without one of us convincing you too..."

"One of you?" Alexei asked, his head spinning.

"Mr. Frost here has been with us since Gest," Leon continued. "...and he will be taking my place as the agent of this time." Leon smiled. "Your success got me promoted by Pierce."

"Pierce?" Alexei wondered. What had happened to the leader?

"Pierce was of course more than the leader of the resistance," Leon added. "He is the Chief of the Temporal Guard, the High Commander of all of Time basically." Alexei was shocked...such a title was unimaginable. "I'll be taking his old job as a senior field agent as he devotes his time to management," Leon continued. "Or should I say..." Leon's face changed to a much younger version and his hair changed color. "I will be taking his place." Leon was indeed the sun-glassed man who had haunted Alexei's dreams. It seemed so long ago...but in fact it was mere months. "Perhaps you had some help along the way," Leon winked.

"Now what?" Alexei asked.

"Sky Marshall Zephyr wants to see you," Eric replied, noting the horrified expression on Alexei's face. "Trust me, he, Colonel Sharp, and Captain Apakoh are the reason we're still here."

"After that," Joseph continued, picking up his cue. "You and Allison are coming over to the banquet room and relaxing with us."

"I'm afraid I might have to..." Alexei began, but was interrupted as the door opened.

"Don't you think for a minute you're getting out of it," Allison told him, hugging him tightly once more. "You're already leaving me again I hear."

Joseph and Leon looked at each other and rolled their eyes. She seemed to have heard the conversation. How many rules had they broken already?

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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Ensign Allison Wilson
Helmsman of the Outlander

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Captain Leon Williams
Leader of the 2nd Marines

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Commander Eric Vinzer
XO of the 2nd Marines

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Lieutenant Joseph Frost
Vehicle Specialist/Sniper,
1st Marines

Looking at the star Dodalla just enjoyed the view, it seem like an eternity since she had taken any time to go enjoy the view from the FA’s observation deck. Now that the war was over, that was the easy part, it would be another thing to rebuild the country, and the trouble that it faced. With every thing that was going on back home the future was in question, she had already ordered a large portion of the fleet back to the Sol system to aid in efforts there. However, her job here was far from done, it had been decide that her and a small force would remain here to provide whatever assistance would be required.

“You wanted to see me” said a voice somewhere behind Dodalla.

Turning Dodalla found that she was now face to face with Ensign Wetherspoon “Yes actually I did” answered the Admiral, and tone was sharp and cold. “I want to why I shouldn’t court marshal you for abandoning your when we needed you most?”

“She left because of me, she left to protect me.” said another voice. The two looked to find that Emily had joined them. Emily took few steps towards them “Now I want to you something Éclair?”

“Shoot?” responded Éclair as moved about the room to face everyone in the room.

A look of confusion came over the Admirals face, she only knew the young woman as Ensign Wetherspoon, and had never heard the name Éclair.

Emily picked up on Dodalla’s confusion. “It would appear as if the Ensign here is more then she seems, she hasn’t been honest with any other us, at least not fully.” She paused, while taking another step towards Éclair “You see, she’s from the future, and the only reason why she is here is to protect me. But my question to her is why. Why am I so important, some many people have died in this war, what makes me so special?”

Éclair let out sigh, she didn’t like being in this position, one wrong word could be fatal the STC. So she tried to talk her way around it, she glanced over at Dodalla “Remember our conversation when I first arrived.” Éclair watched as Dodalla nodded “I was right about you, the famous Admiral Dodalla, Hero of the Orion war. A person not looking for greatness, and stepped up when the time came.” She then turned her attention to Emily, walking over, and placed her hand on Emily’s stomach “I can’t tell you why, but one never knows what the future may hold, even me” With that see took a few steps back “Well now that things here are done, I think that it’s time that I go”

“There are others?” asked Dodalla, again shocked

“Mostly on the side of the rebels” quickly answered Éclair “This was a joint operation between us and the Temporal Guard of Steel Butterfly, this conflict landed up being a temporal mess, that required more work then it should have, but everything seems to be ok now.”

Éclair took a few steps back, she paused for a moment as if waiting for something. A blue spark appeared in front of Éclair, slowly the spark grew and grew until it encompassed Éclair. As quickly as it appeared it was gone, and so was Éclair.

For a moment the two stood there is silence, neither one knowing what to say.

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Ensign Wetherspoon
Aka Agent Éclair

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Emily Williams


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Admiral Dodalla

Zephyr stood with his back to the two soldiers as they walked into his dimly-lit office aboard the Apparition. After a long embrace, Alexei and Allison parted ways once again, with Allison being escorted out of the office and Alexei brought before the grand traitor himself, Sky Marshall Michael Zephyr.

The young Sky Marshall had abandoned the Empire midway through the war, nearly assassinating the Emperor in the process, and had instead turned to terrorism. Fighting both sides of the war, Zephyr had made many enemies, and Alexei wasn't excluded from that group. Alexei had once been the sole survivor of Zephyr's rage after an attack on a military base and he had not forgotten.

"Hello," Alexei said, greeting the back of the Sky Marshall's head. He purposely left out the word 'sir' as a sign of disrespect.

"And you think you are owed any more respect than I am?" Zephyr replied, taking the cue quickly and nearly reading Alexei's mind. The two men were of similar heights but quite different paths. Zephyr, still the youngest Sky Marshall ever after holding the post for nearly nine years, had nearly as many stars as Alexei had scars. This fact was not lost on Alexei, although the supersoldier knew that jealousy was far from a redeeming quality...regardless of whatever damning traits he already had attached to his name.

"I tend to..." Alexei began before being cut off.

"Nonsense," Zephyr snapped. "We both betrayed the Empire, both for our own reasons. Now as we stand here, both victorious, I have no grudge against you, yet you still hold something against me. You didn't like being bombed? Guess what...neither do I. I don't like fighters on the tail of my capital ships, I don't like fighting three-way wars because certain sides are too pigheaded to see a common goal, and I don't like being disrespected by a commander."

"Neither of us hold rank anymore," Alexei replied. He had long since stripped his collar of any insignia. "I'm likely to be court-marshalled..." He paused, trying not to sound threatening. "...you're likely to be killed."

"Those in charge tend to be more forgiving to those who save their asses in the end," Zephyr responded, sitting down and offering Alexei a seat. Alexei declined. "I won their war, Alexei...you killed their enemy..."

"That seems to be a rather large amount of trust to hold in a group of people who have wished you dead over the past year," Alexei said, almost hoping that the Sky Marshall was right in his statement.

"People in similar situations often hold similar views," Zephyr replied vaguely as a man emerged from the shadows. Instantly Alexei saluted, but this time, the General beat him to it. General Jack Valkare seemed in awe of the man who killed the doctor and reached out to shake his hand. Alexei returned the favor, his eyes squinting as his brain processed the information at hand.

"I take it pardons will be given," Alexei said, half stating it, half asking.

"It would be unwise to reprimand the heroes of the Empire," Valkare responded. "The people would not be pleased..."

"The goal is the bring the Empire together once more," Zephyr said, picking up from where the general left off. "We have to bond the people...all of us...to insure that we have a tomorrow...let alone a good one."

"So Pierce was right?" Alexei asked, looking towards Valkare. The General had often disagreed with the one-time political leader of the resistance, and Alexei knew that he would be pushing metaphorical buttons with his comment.

"In some ways," Valkare replied, allowing a smile to cross his face.

"What does any of this have to do with me?" Alexei continued, changing the subject slightly. "My award will be in a ceremony...this information in a speach..."

"Alexei..." Valkare answered. "We both know that you're quite different from the rest of us."

"I don't see how that matters," Alexei replied, his heart rate rising. "There are plenty of different people...diferent races...different species..."

"But not all of them are associated with NiMBUS," Zephyr added. "We don't know what happened to you down there. We don't know what they did to you. Alexei...you don't even know. The information is only beginning to leak...and it's vague at best."

"I'll be damned if I..." Alexei began, slowly retreating towards the exit. "I'm not going to be a goddamned experiment anymore."

"We're asking this time, Alexei," Zephyr told him, trying to calm him down. "We're not putting you in a straight jacket and throwing you in a lab for ten years. We're asking you to take some tests. We just need to learn more..."

"And if you found...'something'...?"

"We'd talk it over with you..."

"Sir we all know that's bullshit," Alexei replied. "You want me you're going to have to take me...and I'm not about to go easy. We just won the war. This is a celebration. Don't ruin it."

"Then you are dismissed, Commander," Valkare instructed as Alexei stood in front of the door. Sensing his presence, the door quickly opened.

"I wasn't planning on sticking around either way," Alexei said without turning around as he walked through the exit.

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

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Sky Marshall Michael Zephyr
Former Commander,
Imperial Fleet and Marines

"We'll be leaving now," Rei Warheit told the other three Aurals as he found them en route to the shuttlebay.

"What of the redeemer?" one of them asked as the other two boarded the ship along with Rei.

"He will come," Rei replied. "Such things cannot be forced upon someone. Give him time. Alone, he will search for us."

"I fear a darkness within him," another added, strapping himself in.

"What is it that makes the stars shine at night?" Rei asked, not expecting an answer. "It is the darkness," he concluded, shutting the door behind him before the shuttle took off into space.

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Rei Warheit

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Allison sensed the tension in Alexei's voice as the two briefly spoke while dressing for the reception on board the ship. Across the Orion Sector people were celebrating, yet Alexei was still unhappy and in turn, so was Allison.

"Honey, come here," Allison ordered with a smile on her face as she pulled Alexei closer to fix his tie and smooth out his dress uniform. The crimson of her fleet uniform pressed up against the green of his marine wear, she leaned in for a kiss. Emotionally, Alexei granted her wish, but it was as if a switch had been thrown the instant they stopped as Alexei once again sunk into his emotionless state of mind.

"Lets go," he said, his hand pulling her's towards the door.

"I thought you didn't want to go," she giggled, tirelessly trying to lighten his mood. Alexei's smile that he gave her seemed forced, but she took it anyhow and allowed herself to be led to the banquet hall of the Apparition.

"Well if it isn't Mr. Hero!" Mark said, grinning as he rose from his seat upon Alexei's entrance. "You must be pretty proud of him," he said to Allison, pulling up two chairs for them to sit at the table as well.

"We all are," Katrina added, extending her hand for Allison to shake. Mark then took Allison's hand and gently kissed it before sitting down and taking a sip of his wine.

"Hotshot and his loyal sidekick," Alexei replied, laughing and seeming to lighten up. "I heard you were quite the hero yourself."

"Loyal sidekick?" Katrina interrupted, chuckling. "What am I? His dog?"

"Kat, darling, can you please go fetch us a waiter?" Mark joked. Katrina stuck out her tounge but agreed to do so, grabbing Allison by the hand and bringing her along. Alone, Mark became more serious. "How you holdin' up A?"

"It's strange," Alexei replied honestly. "I think I have a grasp on it...I think I'm in control...but then it goes and changes on me. I go and change on myself."

"...and of course they want to investigate..." Mark commented, reading Alexei's mind well.

"Of course," Alexei responded.

"What all can you...do?" Mark inquired, leaning closer to him from across the table and whispering the last word. Alexei paused momentarily. He had never truely sat down and toyed with his 'powers' that had emerged within him. They were always changing, as he had said.

"I'm stronger...faster..." Alexei began before stopping and looking down at the fork in front of him. He pointed his index finger at it and as he moved his finger upwards the fork slowly lifted off the table until Mark snatched it out of the air. "...and I can move things."

"Magnetic?" Mark asked. "I heard that Dr. Ackerman was capable of..."

"No," Alexei said. "It seems to have something to do with gravity. I...I think I can manipulate it."

"That seems rather obvious," Mark laughed, giving Alexei back his fork.

"I was supposed to be a super soldier," Alexei explained. "But Dr. Ackerman said I was a failure. So far...I haven't seen where I failed. I can move so fast that time seems to slow and I can almost see things before they happen. I can regenerate my body faster than any human and now I'm stronger than people twice my size...and probably much more."

"...and you don't need to breathe," Mark added, noting Alexei surviving out in space without any life support. "You seem to be able to create massive amounts of heat as well...perhaps that's massive amounts of energy..."

"I hardly feel human anymore," Alexei replied, a sadness placing its veil over him once more. "I don't know who to turn to."

"We're here for you man," Mark said as Katrina and Allison approached them, followed by a waiter with drinks. "Joseph, Eric, Sean, Kat, and you know Allison is. She loves you."

"I think I'm in love with her as well," Alexei said, smiling to her as she made her way to their table, still too far away to hear their conversation.

"So...do something about it!" Mark said. "Just between you and me...I'm going to ask Katrina to marry me later tonight. Spend some more time with Allison, and then go for it."

"I don't want her to get too close...in case...if something were to happen to me..." Alexei tried to explain, but he wasn't even making much sense to himself.

"All our lives are dangerous," Mark said. Allison wrapped her arms around Alexei from behind. As he turned to see what she was doing, she gently kissed his lips and held on tight. "Besides," Mark continued. "It seems too late for that..."

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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Ensign Allison Wilson
Helmsman of the Outlander

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Lt. Commander Mark Andrews
"Raptor Zero"
15th Fighter Squadron

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Lieutenant Katrina Brady
"Raptor 1"
15th Fighter Squadron

"No one else is more suited, sir." Zephyr concluded, gaining a nod of approval from Valkare as well.

The three-dimensional holographic projection of Dave Bivens closed his eyes momentarily to think about what they were about to give him. He couldn't help but feel overwhelmed at the idea which now was becoming reality, regardless of the fact that he had seen it coming.

"You are who the people want," Valkare continued. "...and who the Empire needs."

Bivens stared through the hologram device into the eyes of the men who would be his military advisors and leaders in the times that would follow this meeting. Nearly frightened by the load he know carried on his young shoulders, Bivens nodded to the men who saluted him, not only as their leader, but as their Emperor. Saluting back, Bivens disengaged the HPU and returned by way of crutches to his chair behind his desk, staring up at the ceiling.

The angelic face of James Foxx stared down at him from the mandatory painting on his domed ceiling, identical to the one at Pierce's old office at Aeisis. A citizen of Bivens first before the Empire, James Foxx meant little to Dave and the people of his planet. Foxx ruled long before Bivens had joined Steel Butterfly's Empire, and yet his effects could still be felt throughout the sector, and his face still remained on Bivens' ceiling.

But now, in light of the powers given to him, it was Dave's job to reunite an Empire which had stood united since James Foxx brought the people of Steel Butterfly together, an Empire which Dave himself had helped tear down. He wondered how Foxx truely felt as he was handed a power that he didn't need, as he became the protector of every person in the Empire. Sure Steel Butterfly history books made him out to be the gallant warrior and amazing leader of lore, as evident by his depiction of an angel slaying demons on Bivens' ceiling, but Bivens now imagined Foxx a much different person.

James Pierce had often pondered James Foxx's life when making an important decision, even claiming to be akin to the man once. Knowing now what he knew about Pierce, Bivens thought, Pierce could in fact be related to the great man. Perhaps they had met at one time. Perhaps Pierce had helped Foxx on his way. As Pierce had done many times before, Bivens now addressed the painting as if the man was standing before him.

"I wonder what I've done," Bivens spoke softly. "Why I was chosen for this role. I am here, waiting in silent prayer, frightened by the load I carry...scared of the tasks I must do." James Foxx's celestial face offered no response and no pity, so Bivens merely continued his poetic ramblings. "Do you wonder as you watch me now, if a wiser one should have taken my place? Still...I offer all I am...and all I can be..."

"Pnaydr uv rayjah, rumt sa dukadran, pa vunajan hayn sa, pnaydr uv rayjah. Pnaydr uv rayjah, mekrdah so tynghacc, buin ujan sa ouin rumehacc, vun oui yna rumo," Aria Luciano sang in the ancient Aural tounge as she entered Bivens' office, slowly making her way towards him.

"Breath of heaven," Bivens translated aloud, singing the Aural prayer back in whispers. "Hold me together, be forever near me, breath of heaven. Breath of heaven, lighten my darkness, pour over me your holiness, for you are holy."

"You really should sing more often, ruhao" Aria said, softly smiling as she cared for his injured right knee with an unmatched gentle touch.

"Not until I'm as good as you," Bivens replied, gently running his fingers through her brunette hair, softly highlighted with gold.

"Oh you're far better," Aria responded. "I've heard you in the shower. You just hold back around me."

Bivens smiled. She had caught him, as usual. It was rare that he ever got anything past her, and for that reason he rarely tried. It was the powers that her race shared, even if she was only half Aural and dyed her hair so that she would be accepted easier into society. Now, as the Emperor's girlfriend, and hopefully soon the Emperor's wife, Aria would no longer have to hide under the racism of the former regimes. Bivens would make sure of that.

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Dave Bivens
President/CEO of Bivens Co.

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Aria Luciano

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

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Sky Marshall Michael Zephyr
Former Commander,
Imperial Fleet and Marines

Dodalla adjusted her uniform as she made her way through the halls of the FA. In truth she felt a bit out of place wearing her dress uniform, she had become accustomed to the fit of her battle uniform. As much as she didn’t like wearing her dress uniform, she could see what it ultimately represented. With the fall of Steel Moon, and the fall of NiMbus, the war was now over. Now was the time of celebration, a time of rebuilding.

Already nearly 70% of the fleet had been sent back to Tappee to help aid in the problems that were now developing there. However, despite all the problem that were taking place at home, the government had ordered a detachment to stay in the Orion Sector to help with the rebuilding. With Dodalla’s contact with the resistance she had been the obvious choice, as such had been named Tappee’s Ambassador. A position that she was looking forward to taking, after two years of war, and many battles before that her taste for battle was gone.

As she rounded the corner she was joined by Commander Jeffery, he looked as uncomfortable in his dress uniform as she. “You know I’d rather spend a year in the brig then attend one these ceremonies” casually remarked the Commander.

Dodalla allowed her self a brief chuckle at the mans comment “We all have our duty, and sometimes, events such as this are at times part of our duty” she paused for a moment “besides, I hear that it an open bar”

Jefferys just shock his head at the Dodalla attempt to make a joke “You never cease to amaze me Admiral” replied Jeffery’s as the two made their way on the shutte”

Commander Eric Vinzer and Lieutenant Joseph Frost sat next to Lieutenant Sean Athens at the banquet. No one knew where or how to begin. They had been through so much, and now that it was finally and actually over, each wondered what the future had in store for them. Had their purpose already been served, their reason for existance fulfilled? After much small-talk, Eric stood, and after promising his return, departed towards another table.

Captain Lusec Apakoh felt terribly out of place now that he had been left alone. Not uncomfortable when talking to Colonel William Sharp, Apakoh's uneasy feeling began as soon as the Colonel had departed to another table. Alone with his drinks, the one-time Imperial Captain and one-time follower of Zephyr pondered his future in this new Empire among those who he had fought for two years now.

It was quite surprising then, when a Rebel Commander pulled up a seat beside him and similing, ordered a drink for the both of them. "I have to thank you again for what you did for me," Eric said, praising the Captain once more. Instantly, Captain Apakoh knew who this Rebel Commander was. It was indeed the man he had risked his life for, and had saved. "I'm sorry about your men...I lost many friends as well..."

"We all did," Apakoh replied, letting another period of silence take over as the two men sipped at their drinks softly as others ate and partied around them.

"You're a hero," Eric began once more, gently breaking the silence between then. "We all are. There will be more Silver Falcons given tonight than ever before."

"I doubt it will matter," Apakoh responded drearily. "To the Empire I will be a hero...but to the people I will forever be a traitor. To the victor go the spoils, Commander...and I lost..."

"Captain," Eric countered. "Each one of us sitting here tonight won. Even some who are no longer with us have come out victorious...because their cause won. Captain this wasn't a war among humanity...this was a war for humanity! NiMBUS is no more...the threat to our race, and every other race, is defeated! Whether they admit it or not, everyone in the universe now owes their lives to everyone in this room, and everyone still travelling here."

"Either way," Apakoh replied, sipping at his drink. "I'm glad it's over."

Eric stared across the room, at the people laughing, crying, eating, drinking, dancing, sitting...and realized that even now, the unification of the New Empire was starting before his very eyes and the eyes of his copatriots. "No Captain," he said, smiling as he stood to return to his table. Eric patted Apakoh on the shoulder as he pushed in his chair. "I think it's just beginning...and yes...I'm glad as well..."

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Commander Eric Vinzer
XO of the 2nd Marines

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Captain Lusec Apakoh
81st Imperial Marines

There was a gentle breeze in the air; a breeze that caused the sea leafs to move about freely as if it was its own entity. Brilliant spectrum of fall colors cover the landscape, everywhere that Emily looked there was yellow, orange, and reds. Off in the distance the sounds of waves could be heard crashing against the rocks.

The smell of the ocean made it way deep into Emily’s nostrils. There was something that she found very soothing here; it was the first time in while that she actually felt at peace. As she approached the rock she could feel ocean mist hit her face, ignoring the sensation she continued toward her destination.

Her black overcoat flutter in the wind as she kneeled down, alone accompanied only by her shadow she sat there in silence.

Closing her mind to even herself she listened to the wind, as if seeking some unknown guidance, from some unknown power. At no point in her life would she have considered herself to a religious person, but at this point she could use any help that she could get. However, she did not find any comfort or guidance, only emptiness. It seemed to her that the only thing that she could find was sorrow and pain.

Fighting to hold back the waves of emotions she slowly opened her eyes bring the world slowly back into focus. With some hesitation she place a single writhe into the water. “You will always have my heart” said Emily as the water took the writhe. For what seemed an eternity she watched as the tide slowly took the writhe away from her.

Placing her hand over her stomach Emily was reminded of the last gift that Henry had given her. She found solace in the fact that she was going to soon become mother, and that Henry in some way was going to live on through their unborn child. Slowly rising to her feet she turned and made her way back to which she came. As she did there was a thunderous roar as a single jet fighter passed overhead.

Weeks later...

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It was not yet winter at Corporate Cathedral, yet Dave Bivens could feel the chill in the air as he crutched out into the streets of his capital, the new capital of the New Empire. They would be waiting for him, Bivens thought to himself as he wrapped his overcoat tighter around himself, even in his weather.

He had not seen nor read of such a surrender in the history of his or anything other empire. Those handing over their swords were to be accepted and trusted instantly, bringing all the different sides together in an enormous celebration. Pierce wanted it that way, and that's the way it would be done. This was not the nature of surrenders, Bivens told himself. Such things were not joyous, nor did they take place in lighthearted times. Then again, he countered, no heart was light anymore.

Tonight was more than simply two swords being added to his collection. It was in fact two seperate beliefs being added to his own, two different groups of people being joined to a third after two straight years of horrific civil war.

The close moon was bright, with the dark parts even visable on clear nights such as this one. The trip to his transport seemed to last forever, Bivens mused. He rarely noticed things such as that before. Unlike most men, who's crutches were buried deep inside, Bivens' were physical, the result of a bullet which passed through his knee. In time it would heal, but even with the benefit of advanced medicine and technology, one's body healed at its own pace. The doctors told him that his recovery was moving along quickly, yet each day passing made him more weary of his bastard knee and the crutches that came with it.

Bivens arrived shortly at the location, the podium and table all laid out and guarded by men in crimson dress uniforms and black battle outfits alike. Seated to the left of General Jack Valkare and to the right of Admiral Dodalla from Tappee, Bivens stared out into the crowd of billions. Quickly, his gaze shifted to Sky Marshalls Alek Adrikov and Michael Zephyr. The former was a good man who seemed to simply be on the wrong side, the later a traitor who had redeemed himself. Both men, Bivens noted, were far younger than what a person of their position normally was...but then again...so was he.

Slowly he rose to the podium, hushed voices silenced instantly by his presence. A speech, purposely short, was to be recited, followed by the surrender of both Zephyr and the Former Empire. In no way did Bivens look foward to these precedings, but he knew there was no backing out. He no longer could thing for himself only. It was time to think of the Empire. Every decision he made now effected billions. Shivering, Bivens smiled to himself, already realizing the burden that he carried and would carry throughout his entire reign and life.

"Brothers and sisters," he began, addressing the citizens as the family they had become. "I greet you now that our great conflict is finally concluded." A wild applause, followed by cheers, rang out from the crowd. "However if you came here seeking an end, you are mistaken, for as destruction is easy and quick, rebuilding is hard...and takes time. Still, a new sun is rising over the horizon...a new day has begun. With the help of our allies, let the light of day pull you from this darkness which has consumed us. Let the powers of time heal the wounds our enemies inflicted. Let us come together under one banner...one creed...one word - unification. I will lead you, just as I will lead these men who come before me offering all they have left. Just as you would be shown mercy, mercy will be given to these two men to insure that the conflict stays over...that darkness stays defeated. Throw aside your petty differences, for it is our right as a people to join hands with one another for a better tomorrow...our job as a people to wipe away the filth of the past. Tomorrow will be a new day, the dawn of a new existance...a new age...a new empire. I challenge you to embrace your destiny and each other as we fight together for a future..." Bivens paused, catching his breath as all those around him held theirs. "...our future."

A cry of the Empire's motto, "Only In Death Does Duty End," rang out among the crowd...a cry so loud it shook the heavens and soil alike...a cry that did not stop when the two Sky Marshalls stood to present their swords.

"Forgive me, my lord," Adrikov whispered as he dropped to one knee, presenting his sword to Bivens. "I knew not what I was doing..." With Dodalla and Valkare behind him, Bivens accepted the token of surrender and placed in upon the table laid out before them.

"I am eternally in your debt, master," Zephyr whispered, doing the same as Adrikov as Bivens turned to face him. As Bivens took the sword Zephyr raised his head, nearly in tears. "I owe you everthing."

"Stand," Bivens muttered, his voice weak with emotion. The two Sky Marshalls looked up at him from their place on the ground, unsure as to what he said. "On your feet," Bivens commanded, and they obeyed. Laying the crutches aside, Bivens slowly walked towards the two of them standing side by side and placed his hands on the outside shoulder of each. "You owe me nothing," he told him so only those near him could hear. "Except your loyalty...your trust...and your friendship. I ask of you no more than I ask of anyone else...and yet I know you will give me so much more," Bivens smiled at them, waiting for them to return the favor. Once they smiled back, he continued. "I am the sun...but you...all of you...are the light. I will provide for you to warm this Empire in ways I cannot. An undying love for your country...not your Emperor...is all I ask."

Aria, his love and a half-Aural, helped him return to the podium hand in hand. "Today we will break the bonds of racism, together we will shatter the chains of hatred, so that tomorrow we will enable ourselves to achieve all that we've ever desired...and everything we've ever dreamed of."

Some cried tears of both sorry and joy. Some shouted in both angst and excitement. Some left...some couldn't...but everyone believed.

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Dave Bivens
President/CEO of Bivens Co.

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Aria Luciano

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General Jack "Lionheart" Valkare
Commander of the Esthar Military
Acting Praetor of Esthar VIII

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Sky Marshall Alek Petrovich Adrikov
Ex-Commander of the Imperial Fleet and Marines
Former Head of Capital Defense

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Sky Marshall Michael Zephyr
Former Commander,
Imperial Fleet and Marines

Alexei gazed back upon what he was leaving behind. The planet of Bivens held plenty of oppertunities, as did the New Empire Dave Bivens promised, yet none of the said oppertunities were for him. He was no longer welcome by those he had saved, no longer wanted in a nation he helped build. Now the bastard hero, Alexei was casting himself out before they did it themselves, or worse...kept him here.

Besides, Alexei told himself, he couldn't stay here. His abilities...his powers...were growing and changing constantly. Every day he felt different and he needed to learn more about himself. He needed to learn from others who knew what he was dealing with.

It was for this reason that Alexei was departing for wherever Rei Warheit resided. Allison was coming too, he smiled, for although she could never understand, she didn't try to. She merely tried to comfort him, and comfort him she did. Someday he'd understand, he hoped. Someday he'd realize who and what he really was.

"Syo ed pa dra crytufc lymm femm vmo yfyo. Syo ed pa oui zuinhao uh du mekrd dra tyo. Frah dra hekrd ec ujanlusa oui syo neca du veht dra cih. Y bnuseca mejac fedreh oui huf," Alexei told himself, repeating words he had read in the temple. He turned his back to his home, walking towards his ship and his love who waved back with a smile on her face. "A promise lives within you now," he said again, repeating the last line of the prayer in English as he looked upon the Empire one last time. He'd return, he told himself...someday...

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Commander Alexei Ivanova
XO of the 1st Marines

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Ensign Allison Wilson
Helmsman of the Outlander

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