Fiction:Golden Movement

The is known for housing some of the most loyal Zazane clans and individuals, and are a galactic superpower within Andromeda. Their leader, is a Highlord of the AGC and a renowned warrior and saviour throughout the galaxy, while others call him a demon, or a nuisance due to his powers and heritage. On the edge of Brood territory, an insurrection larger than any other is about to take place, and loyalties will be tested and played upon as the Brood struggles to keep order within itself.

The biggest enemy is not from the outside, but on the inside...

Soroka
A small fleet of ships belonging to the Brood approached the world of Soroka, a world dominated by green plants and blue water. Soroka was a Brood colony near the edge of their territory, though it had been noted that this world was under the influence of a power that opposed the current ruler of the Brood, Tyraz Breek. However, unlike most other planets dominated by a rebellion or protester force, Soroka was not reported to have been taken by force, instead somewhat willingly submitting to the reign of a new leader. This baffled the captain of the fleet, Rydok Katachar, who had been fighting enemy fleets of traitors and rebels for many years. He was aching for a battle, but it seemed today it would be a lowly diplomatic meeting.

Helmsman - Captain Rydok, we are approaching Soroka. This is where the rebel influence is said to have originated from. Rydok - I am surprised we have not encountered any conflict as of yet. However, keep your guard up. We cannot afford to be ambushed this far into enemy territory.

Rydok looked out towards Soroka, and saw a fleet of golden, modified Brood ships on approach towards them. He leaned forward in his seat and snarled at the modified ships. They appeared golden, with extra spike-like additions attached.

Rydok - They dare defile our mighty ships with their modifications and tainted touch? Bastards! We shall see what they have to say! Helmsman - Do you wish to contact the highest authority, captain? Rydok - Patch me through! I shall give them a piece of my mind!

A communications window was opened, and Rydok waited for a moment before an image of a Zazane appeared on screen. A black and yellow Zazane, wearing something that was not recognized as traditional or standard Zazane fleet uniform. The Zazane had an implant on the left side of his face, possibly a result of a former battle or accident. However, while Rydok was angry and enraged, the black Zazane watched calmly, sitting in a golden seat. He tilted his head.

Zazane Captain - Welcome to Soroka, friend. It has been a while since we have seen any outsiders. Rydok - Silence, you ignorant fool! Who are you, and why do you challenge the Brood? Zazane Captain - Challenge the Brood? I have done no such thing. You must be mistaken. Rydok - Mistaken?! You're clearly a rebel! Zazane Captain - There has been a simple misunderstanding. I am no rebel, I am still in the allegiance of the Brood, I have simply...altered my political position in this sector. Rydok - On whom's authority? Zazane Captain - I am not sure if you are aware, but diplomacy between the leaders of Brood planets is not illegal. I have been gifted the territory from former planetary leaders.

Rydok leaned back in his chair, starting to calm down a little, though one could still see he had a look of frustration and anger on his face. His claws began to dig into his seat, while the other Zazane captain kept his smile and calm manner.

Rydok - You still haven't told me who you are. Zazane Captain - My apologies. My friends call me Crispy. Rydok - Crispy? What sort of name is that?

Crispy smirked. The modified Brood ships moved aside, revealing a new model of ship that was Brood-like in appearance but was nothing that the Fleet of Ruin had ever manufactured. Rydok's eyes widened a little as he saw it, and stood up. Crispy smirked as he saw Rydok stand.

Crispy - I am Crispy, leader of the Golden Movement. Otherwise known as Crispy's Insurrection. Rydok - Golden Movement? Is that what you call your puny alliance of planets? Crispy - At first, the planets in this sector. And then soon, other sectors. I promise more power than what Tyraz had ever given this Brood. The ships are stronger, the soldiers are better-trained,and it shall show how strong the Zazane really are. I am not some rebel who wants to rid of the Brood, no. That would be stupid. But I will simply fulfill the promises that Tyraz has made. Rydok - Then why not work under his wing? Crispy - Tyraz is a simple individual. His spirit is broken, he is not the man he once was. He has become...weaker. Rydok - On the contrary, he is stronger than ever before! He is the Grandmaster of the Guardians of Light and a Highlord of Andromeda! Crispy - Yes, but does he deserve it? Does he keep to his word?

Rydok stopped for a moment. Right now, he wanted to blast Crispy and his fleet to a million pieces, but he had wondered about what he had said. Had Tyraz really kept his promises of prosperity and strength? Why had so many legions and planets rebelled against his rule if he was supposedly a good leader? Rydok shook his head, and he snarled again.

Rydok - You are but a heretic! Crispy - Heretic? Tyraz is a god now? Rydok - He has the powers of a god! Crispy - No, he is cursed. Even Tyraz will admit that he is a cursed individual, a damned leader. Like the First One, Zagdala. Rydok - How dare you speak ill of Zagdala! He formed the Dragon Battleguard and united our mighty nation! Crispy - Zagdala betrayed the Old God in order for the Five Gods to grant him power. And then he set his sons against one another, and in the end killed his last surviving child. And what next? He put himself into a slumber, and left the realm. If he is not a traitor, then what is he? Rydok - You have no right to speak of Zazane's past, you are but scum in the eyes of my race! Crispy - Scum? Me? The one who is sane and has found a better way to unite nations, rather than an insane, emotional warlord who has reproduced with aliens? If I am scum, Tyraz must be the dirt I sleep on.

Rydok let out an angered roar, frustrated with Crispy's words, though somehow, he could see truth and reason behind them. Crispy was not like other Zazane, who were zealous followers of one man who could beat another. Instead, he was a man who offered promise to his supporters, and has even proven himself a worthy leader by his modified ships, and the resources to have even built his own personal custom ship without stealing.

Rydok - Crispy, you are a traitor and blasphemer in the eyes of Tyraz. Crispy - And I do not care for Tyraz, he is halting the progression of the Brood. Rydok - The Zazane are stronger than ever before! Crispy - And I could make them stronger! No, not as in physically, which is the way of simple-minded brutes and primitives, but in the way of politics! I could lead this empire to salvation, as I could my race! Rydok - You have no right to call yourself Zaza-- Crispy - You cannot deny that I am Zazane. Tyraz is the alien, as are his spawn. He is not of our kind, he has become a demon. A pox. A cancer that threatens to disband our race. At the start, he showed promise, he was more of a leader than his brother Moxix. But slowly, he spiralled down into oblivion and has doomed us all.

Rydok sighed, and knew he could not deny any longer. He sat back into his seat and he grunted.

Helmsman - Do you wish to attack, captai-- Rydok - No...Take us in closer. Helmsman - But sir, we could attack from here. Rydok - I do not wish to attack! I wish to...join... Helmsman - Join? But captain, this man speaks nonsense! Rydok - Just do it!

Rydok's fleet began to approach Crispy's own fleet. Rydok, feeling ashamed though accepting of Crispy's words, looked back to the communication screen.

Rydok - I am requesting permission to have our fleets merge... Crispy - Your fleet shall become part of mine, your ships will be modified to the highest grade and your men shall be given the finest training and equipment. We will be needing extra forces in order to show how serious we are in our cause to bring about a better age for the Brood.

With that, the fleet entered Soroka's orbit, joined by several of the modified Brood ships. Crispy closed the communication screen, and he smiled to his crew mates.

Crispy - We shall proceed forwarth and spread our reasoning to the main fleet in this sector, and then to the many worlds within. Tyraz has given up his dignity for power, he is nothing but an unstable tyrant.

Daedalus
On Daedalus, the capital planet of the Brood within Andromeda, Tyraz rested in his throne room, which was adorned by skulls, skeletons and weaponry from variours time periods and locations. Tyraz had his eyes closed, and his scales began to blacken, with luminous yellow scars beginning to appear on his flesh. He growled as his focussed look turned to a smirk, and his wings slowly spread outward. However, it all vanished within an instant as soon as the doors to his throne were forced open. A light-coloured Zazane of somewhat large size landed on feet, and stared at a large Niddan Ho who approached slowly. Savas Golge, the Icon, was having a practice duel with the Niddan Ho known as Tanaris, the first of his kind and also the strongest.

Tyraz let out a short roar, and he stood.

Tyraz - What is the meaning of this? Savas - My lord, this abomination is in support of an insurrection! Tanaris - Support insurrection? Savas, your ears have closed to the truth! Savas - All insurrections must be met with force! Tanaris - And you wonder why so many people rebel against the Brood. We must settle this diplomatically.

Tyraz roared again, gaining the attention of both Savas and Tanaris. Savas roared back while Tanaris stayed quiet.

Tyraz - Explain, why are you meeting each other with such violence? Savas - A sector within our territory has fallen to an insurrection, our fleet forces have also disappeared! Tanaris - There have been no reports of violence, so we cannot meet them with such. Savas - Insurrectionist! Tyraz - Enough! Tanaris is right, if it is not a violent incursion then we cannot fight just yet. We must find out their motif first--

At that moment, Savas turned and sent his leg straight towards Tyraz's head. Tyraz, however, raised his arm and grabbed ahold of his foot, and swung Savas towards the other side of the room. Savas propelled himself against a wall and slammed his fist into the ground.

Savas - Tyraz! You are blind to a threat! Tyraz - I am blind to no threat! Savas - A Zazane would gladly rush into battle against-- Tyraz - Savas, enough! I want to settle this without violence! Savas - This would be unwise! Tyraz - For what reasons? Savas - You will gain the dislike of the Zazane people! Tyraz - I think I have gained enough dislike through our violent ways, from both Zazane and aliens! Savas - Aliens...You care about xenoforms so much as to influence your behaviour?

Tyraz stood silent and then sat back down on his throne. He let out a sigh and then stared to Savas.

Tyraz - These aliens helped save Andromeda, our ho-- Savas - This galaxy is not our home! Vollix was my home! Tyraz - Well Vollix is gone, Savas! We must find new homes! Savas - This will never be home!

At that point, Savas stood and he grunted, looking to Tanaris and then back at Tyraz, with a frustrated look upon his face.

Savas - If you wish to settle this without conflict, count me out of this. I had the same view on the Kordalian Connection, and they betrayed us. Tyraz - The Kordalu cared only for themselves, Savas. Savas - It was still destined to happen, and you ignored the warnings. I would've destroyed them at first sight as soon as I knew their intentions! Tyraz - But you are not emperor!

Savas growled and he turned around, gripping his blade tightly. Tanaris raised his gun towards Savas, who promptly responded by knocking the gun away. Tyraz watched silently while they all began to calm down.

Savas - Good luck trying to prevent rebellion. Tyraz - It is a simple political misunderstanding. Savas - Somebody wants you dead, Tyraz. Tyraz - Everybody wants me dead.

With an aggravated snarl, Savas left the throne room. Tanaris turned to Tyraz with a look of concern on his face, and approached him.

Tanaris - Lord Tyraz, he is not fit to take a seat as a member of the Council. Tyraz - Savas works hard to protect our race and keep it pure. Tanaris - He is an old patriot. Tyraz - Nonetheless, he is an inspiration to many Zazane, more so than I am. If I was not born, Savas would've been the one to have succeeded Moxix upon his death. Tanaris - But Savas could never had performed the many feats you did with your powe-- Tyraz - It is NOT a gift, Tanaris. It is a power bestowed upon me by a cursed god. Tanaris - You speak against the Old God? Tyraz - I have talked personally with him, I am not in his favour, nor is he in mine. Tanaris - My lord, with all due respe-- Tyraz - Tanaris, I need some time alone. Make sure Savas doesn't wreck anything. Tanaris - Yes, my lord.

Tanaris slowly turned and walked away, his look of concern slowly fading for a look of frustration. Tyraz sighed and leaned his head back. He felt frustrated himself, and annnoyed, though was in a mood of bizarre anger, not with the others but with himself. Perhaps Savas would be a better leader? No, he was too brash, and not so powerful as to defeat those who Tyraz have fought. Savas was a great motivator, but he wasn't fit for the throne in these hard times.

Jaggar
Crispy observed a screen while sitting on his throne. On the screen, it showed the entirety of Brood territory, while showing one sector near the eastern edge of the Brood's territory outlined in gold, showing this was under the influence and control of the Golden Movement. Crispy smiled as his fleet of golden, modified Brood ships approached a rather industrial-looking planet, probably a big supplier to the local legions of Battleguard. The planet was known as Jaggar, and was home to a rather aggressive population of Zazane.

Crispy - If Jaggar joins the Golden Movement, then we shall have an advantage of weaponry and technology on our side, and the Battleguard in the local area will probably have no choice but to join our movement if they value their resources. Helmsman - And what if they're not willing to join? Crispy - Then we shall not hurt them. Despite our power, we are still currently only a small force here.

Crispy's ship approached Jaggar, followed by his fleet. Suddenly, there was an incoming transmission from Jaggar. Crispy launched his communication screen and answered the transmission. On the other end was a brownish-black Zazane with thick, metal rods piercing through his crest, probably as a decorative sign of culture, or maybe from an accident.

Crispy - This is Commander Crispy of the Golden Movement. Zazane - I am Harakulk Giordaki, supreme authority of Jaggar, and ruler of the Jaggari Zazane! State your business, scum! Crispy - Now, there is no need for such harsh words. I offer a treat of peace and protection. Harakulk - Protection? Jaggar is protected enough! We are home to some of the finest Battleguard soldiers! Crispy - Is that so? What if I said that the Golden Movement can offer your planet more fame and wealth than before? Harakulk - I would say screw off, that is obvious Shyrak! Crispy - But you see, it isn't. The planets in the sector close by have all seen an increased quality of life and developement, all through joining our movement. Technology is becoming more advanced and our armies are more than well-equipped thanks to this joint movement! Harakulk - Jaggar needs no increase in quality! Crispy - But the Movement requires your assistance, and we can pay better than what the Brood offers. Harakulk - If this is true, prove it to me! I challenge a single squad of your soldiers to shoot down and kill a squad of Jaggari Zazane!

Crispy sat silently and sighed, looking down.

Crispy - <>

Harakulk smirked as he observed Crispy's expression. Crispy slowly lifted his head to the communication screen, and he looked to Harakulk with a blank expression.

Harakulk - Do you accept my challenge, scum? Crispy - ...Yes. I accept your challenge. It is a shame I must resort to such violent means to gain your respect. Harakulk - As is the way of Zazane! The strongest always survives! Crispy - Indeed it does...

Several hours later, a large, dust-filled training ground was prepared for Crispy's squad. The squad consisted of five seemingly normal Zazane, and the only cover on the field was large rocks, sprouting from the sand. The squad of Zazane wore minimal armour, though they carried Morph Rifles and modified pistols. A squad of Jaggari Zazane were already prepared for them, equipped with giant, thick blades and Morph Rifles of their own design. They were somewhat moderately armoured, and Harakulk watched from a throne made of hard stone.

Harakulk - This shall be at least somewhat entertaining! Crispy - For such an industrial planet...you have such a primitive culture... Harakulk - You dare insult the ways of Jaggar?! Crispy - No, I am stating the facts. It is time we moved on from our violent past. Harakulk - There is nothing wrong with violence! Crispy - No...there is everything wrong...

The Jaggari squad fired upon Crispy's soldiers, who took cover behind the large rocks. Harakulk laughed and pointed.

Harakulk - Haha! Cowards! Your army is nothing but cowards! Crispy - No, they are experts at tactics. They would rather use their time living for thinking rather than fighting.

Crispy's squad spent at least a minute in cover, while they analyzed the situation. At the slightest chance, one of the squad member shot the crest off one of the Jaggari Zazane from behind cover, killing them almost instantly. The other Jaggari were somewhat surprised, and ran to get up close while firing. One squad member emerged from cover, holding a pistol, and fired at two of the Jaggari, blowing off their armour and flooring them, making them bleed from their chests. The remaining two Jaggari leaped over the cover and striked at the squad with their thick swords, however one squad member grabbed the blade and shot point-blank through the Jaggari's neck. The other Jaggari swung his sword round, hoping to slice a member of Crispy's squad, but was met with gunfire from the enemy. Harakulk raised from his seat in disbelief.

Harakulk - What?! Crispy - As I said, my soldiers are given the best training, and then the best equipment. Harakulk - Hmph...as is the way of Zazane, you have beaten my challenge. Crispy - How you can so easily give their lives away and state it as a challenge disgusts me. Harakulk - Whatever, you have the assistance of Jaggari. Crispy - Good. What are your views of Tyraz? Harakulk - Weak and pathetic! He sacrificed his potential for a seal with the Old God! Crispy - Well, you shall live happily in the knowledge that the Golden Movement is against Tyraz. Harakulk - Heh, I assist your incursion mainly because I see you as a strong individual, at least stronger than Tyraz. You are smart as well, I may be past my time. I have spent 250 years alive, with a majority of it consisting of violence. Perhaps it is time I settle down and let you take the lead. Crispy - It means a lot, old one.

Crispy and his men beamed back up to his capital ship, the Orochi, and several ships began to take residence within the planet's orbit, in order to start the improvement of Jaggar and convert it to Crispy's standards. Meanwhile, the Orochi and a majority of the other ships left Jaggar, to move on to seperate systems. Crispy sighed as he stroked his crest.

Crispy - The primitive ways of Zazane disappoint me. We are in a new age! An age where Zazane shall be great again, yet Tyraz holds all of our race back through his failed attempts. He can't even control himself!

Crispy slammed the arm of his throne, and then started to calm down again.

Crispy - Where are we headed next? Navigator - We are headed for Sutupau. Crispy - Sutupau...isn't that a military-based planet? Navigator - It is indeed home to many billions of Battleguard. Crispy - We could use this. Navigator - Indeed.

Sutupau
The Orochi approached the planet of Sutupau, a planet that resides within the Mid-Rim. Crispy sat patiently on board, accompanied by a Zazane who had some odd portrusions from his chest. Crispy did not seem to care much about it, in fact he somewhat ignored the Zazane, until he decided to speak up.

Zazane - At last, Sutupau. Home of the Sutupau Legion. Crispy - Indeed, if we are able to persuade them to join our side we would have something of a tactical advantage if we're attacked. Zazane - I say we kill them all! There are many Battleguard legions within our ranks! Crispy - Do you really think we can lose an opportunity like this? Sutupau is a military stronghold. Zazane - I could destroy it all!! Crispy - Enough, Kharnes! The Sutupau Legion are a lot more experienced than most of my own soldiers. If we persuade them to join our side, we have a stronghold on our side for when Tyraz eventually decides to launch his assult.

Kharnes turned away from Crispy and growled. Crispy slowly turned his head to Kharnes.

Crispy - I can understand you're angry. Kharnes - What is the point of me being here? You aren't even going on the offensive! Crispy - I need to play my cards right, Kharnes. Politics is a heavy game. It can go in either favour at this point. Kharnes - Why are you even fighting diplomatically? Crispy - I do not wish to kill my fellow kin. I am no barbarian. Kharnes - And what if the Sutupau wish to not join our cause? Can I destroy them then? Crispy - No, we search for another potentially available colony. Kharnes - They are trash! Shyrak-dwelling scum! Crispy - You overreact too much. Kharnes - You're trash!

Crispy simply chuckled and looked away. Despite the insult, he knew it was in Kharnes' nature, as Kharne wasn't the brightest of Zazane. He was arrogant and brash, with his only desire being to smash and break things, though to an extent that would gain weird looks from many Zazane. Despite such a violent nature, Crispy somewhat liked Kharnes, not for his destructive tendencies which he despised, but for the fact that Kharnes was loyal to his cause unwaveringly, though his insults are somewhat of an annoyance to him. Crispy activated the communications screen, and was being patched through to the highest authority available. He was soon answered by Tolodon Hoark, high commander of the Sutupau Legion.

Tolodon - Who is this? Crispy - This is Crispy, captain of the Orochi and leader of the Golden Movement, otherwise known as-- Tolodon - ...Crispy's Rebellion. Yes, we were anticipating your arrival. Crispy - So you know of our cause? Tolodon - Indeed. You wish to bring down Tyraz from his throne and have yourself seated upon it. Crispy - Where did you hear such news? Tolodon - The Jaggari Zazane. Crispy - Of course. I guess I have no need to ask. All I require is your answer. Tolodon - We are currently in the process of thinking about your cause. How do we know we would be in good hands? Crispy - Your soldiers will be trained to the highest grade possible, and your equipment shall be modified and enhanced. Tolodon - Is that so? Crispy - Yes, we have enough strength to hold off a moderate sized Brood force. Tolodon - If you campaign fails we would be in knee-high Shyrak! Crispy - It shall not fail. All you need is to trust me. Tyraz would have you all killed but he is too busy fuddling with aliens to notice. Tolodon - That is true, what sort of leader would perform intimate acts with aliens? He's not even Zazane himself, he is just... Crispy - A beast, a monster. Tolodon - Yes. Why should we serve a beast who cannot control himself, then again why should we serve you? Crispy - You would not be serving me. You would be aiding me. I would not have you as simple soldiers, you will be people. Tolodon - But we Zazane are natural weapons! Crispy - No. You only believe this because of our leaders in the past. And what have our leaders ever done for us? Zagdala betrayed us, Yun launched all out war against the aliens that later almost completely destroyed our former empire, Moxix released undead invasions and Tyraz has done nothing but caused people to disrespect and rebel against him, yet he cannot accept it is his own fault. Tolodon - What makes you better? Crispy - Ask the Zazane under my wing. Their planets have had a significant increase in the quality of life, and have become stronger as a whole. Tolodon - If that is the case...We shall pledge our alliegance to you. I wish for nothing other than the thriving of my people and their protection. Crispy - They shall be safe, as will you. Tolodon - I will not deny I am doubtful. Crispy - Considering the size of Tyraz's empire, I understand. But I am no rebel force. I wish not to harm my fellow Zazane, aside from Tyraz who I am ashamed to have as my former leader.

The communications were suddenly cut off. Crispy had a look of slight surprise on his face, before he turned to Kharnes.

Crispy - Kharnes, give me an update. Kharnes - It seems we are being attacked by the local Sutupau fleet. Crispy - I understand. Tolodon must not have sent them the message just yet. Kharnes - Hrugh! He should hurry up! Crispy - Patience, Kharnes. We do not want to reduce our good relations.

The communication window appeared again, and an angry-looking Sutupaui Zazane was on the other end. Crispy looked back to the screen and he observed with a blank face.

Crispy - And who are you? Zazane - I am Captain Odankai of the Mother's Regret! I have heard your words of heresy! Crispy - Hmm? Heresy? Do you not understand the cause of my campaign? Odankai - Your campaign is insurrection! Crispy - Against Tyraz, yes. Against the Brood, no. Odankai - Tyraz IS the Brood! He made the Brood! You have no idea what forces you're playing against, boy!

Tolodon managed to get into the communications, and the three observed each other on their screens.

Tolodon - Odankai! What is the meaning of this? Odankai - You dare come between me and my foe, traitor?! Tolodon - Traitor? Odankai - I have heard your discussion! You're joining this Shyrak-bag against Tyraz?! Tolodon - You are in no position to come between me and politics. Odankai - I have my opinions! I want them heard! Tolodon - Then let us hear them. Odankai - I want this piece of Shyrak dead! We've heard enough about him to know he's dangerous! Crispy - And what do you know of me? Odankai - You're a treacherous leader! Crispy - I am indeed a rival leader to Tyraz Breek, but I pose no threat to the Broo- Odankai - Silence! I demand you die on the spot! Tolodon - Crispy, feel free to kill this idiot. Crispy - I would rather not. It would be a waste of resources. Odankai - How dare you!

The Mother's Regret, a Syloot-class battleship, began to charge a Shidium energy beam, before unleashing it upon the Orochi. The ship took no visible damage, as it was defended by a Shidium-powered force field, though the blast took out the shield and left the Orochi exposed. Crispy's eyebrow raised a little and he sat up straight in his seat.

Kharnes - We should eliminate him! Run him into the ground! Tolodon - Crispy, I would advise-- Crispy - Unleash Rezakasai.

With those two words, the Orochi began to generate golden energy from all gun barrels. Odankai watch in both shock and amazement, as this had never been seen on many of the other Brood ships. Crispy folded his arms slowly, and then watched as, from all barrels, beams of golden energy were sent straight towards the Mother's Regret. Piercing through the Shidium armour like it was paper, the ship was literally blasted into pieces in mighty explosions, and Odankai's communication slowly faded.

Odankai - Bastard! Shyrak eating scu--

Crispy muted Odankai's communication on his screen, and he watched as soon only Tolodon was visible on his side of the screen. Crispy looked at him with a serious face, and spoke.

Crispy - You have witnessed just the moderate level of power from the Orochi. This ship is not available anywhere else, it is a one of a kind. Tolodon - Magnificent power, I can't comprehend what it would be like to fight with it at full power. Crispy - Dangerous. I can assure you that. Tolodon - Well then, Crispy, it shall be a pleasure aiding your side. Crispy - I feel honoured that the Sutupau Legion have decided to join my cause. It will be an honour to have you as a fleet commander. Tolodon - Please, my strategies are reserved for the ground. I am almost no good in the air. Odankai was my most skilled commander, with captain Rozarel being second. Crispy - Rozarel? Tolodon - My son. Rozarel has served with the Sutupau fleet for around six years. Crispy - That is some experience. Tolodon - Indeed. He is no rookie. Crispy - I hope he is more patient than Odankai. Tolodon - Oh, he is. Him and that old fool never really got on well. Crispy - Well, it shall be a pleasure.

With that, the communications were closed. Several ships approached Sutupau's orbit, so that the process of converting the planet to be under Crispy's control could begin, while the Orochi's shields were restored as they moved away.

Crispy - I did not want to kill anybody today. Kharnes - He was trash! He burned to the might of our insurrection! Crispy - I was left with no choice but to destroy him. He could've posed a threat to the Orochi. Kharnes - Just as well you did, I couldn't trust somebody like that in our ranks! Crispy - Kharnes...just, go and do something useful.

Kharnes grunted and left the room. The Orochi and it's fleet were approaching a planet within the Mid-Rim, and Crispy did not recognize it on his map.

Crispy - Hmm? This isn't Brood territory. Navigator - We are approaching Imperium territory. Reports say the planet is under the authority of House Valocanus. Crispy - The Imperium?

Crispy thought for a few moments, and he nodded. This would be a big opportunity for him, to have some alien resources and contacts to rely on. He knew of the incident with Tyraz and a Valocanus member, he also possessed knowledge of Tyraz that would make people mystified. A smirk came across his face.

Crispy - Set a course for it. This is an opportunity I cannot afford to miss! Navigator - Affirmative, lord Crispy.

Meeting of the Council
Within a large room, overlooking the capital city of Daedalus, known as Kacar, the Council of the Brood were all seated, gathered to discuss the recent events within Brood territory.

Tyraz - So, I assume you all know why we are here today. Kryptkor - The so called Golden Movement, right? Tyraz - Yes, the insurrection that currently poses a threat to us. Savas - I say we should send out a large fleet of Brood ships and destroy the traitors! Kryptkor - I'm not so sure if we should destroy them all. But kill off the leader? Certainly. Sanron - The intentions of the Golden Movement are mystery, they do not seem to be posing violence. Kryptkor - This Crispy guy, he hides something. I've seen people pretend to be nice in Borealis, only for them to show up as cruel dictators after they got power. Savas - What, and Tyraz is better? He's a psycho! Tyraz - Enough, Savas. My reign as emperor is not up for debate. Kryptkor - Don't compare Tyraz to this guy. If it wasn't for Tyraz I would be dead by now. Savas - Either way, this insurrection has appeared because Tyraz can't seem to control his people, just as he can't control himself. We value strong leaders! Kryptkor - If he was so weak, the Brood would have never been formed. Keldar - If I may recall, Tyraz had killed many threats that posed quite a danger to Andromeda. Khaxvis, Br'Klakkon, and such. Savas - Only because he gives himself up to that demon inside of himself! Kryptkor - I'm yet to see how Tyraz's powers are a downsize. All Zazane have this power. Ravir - But most Zazane are not so indulged in this power as Tyraz. He seems to be the most engulfed in it, and he's having trouble pulling himself back out.

Kryptkor crosses his arms and leans backwards.

Tyraz - If I may bring this conversation back to the real matter at hand? Kryptkor - Yes...sorry. Like I said, my opinion is eliminating the leader and sparing the rest. Vecuarden - But what if another leader arises from the survivors? And wouldn't this prove a point to Crispy's campaign? Kryptkor - Perhaps also eliminate Crispy's higher agents too. What I don't want is to cause an unecessary genocide on our own kin. Savas - Our "kin"? If I am right, aren't you from some Sub-Zazane species? Kryptkor - I may be, but I consider all Zazane as my kin. Savas - Those who do not follow the way of true Zazane shan't be considered Zazane! And the true way is to survive! And to survive, we need to eliminate this insurrection! Kryptkor - Ugh...killing our own people will only make more want to rebel. Tyraz - Kryptkor has a point, but the Zazane of the Brood respect leaders who make themselves appear strong. My bloodline also isn't exactly liked. Keldar - Indeed, many Zazane remember the treacherous history of the Breeks. Moxix was a prime example, and you being his brother wouldn't make you a popular option. Though, nevertheless, we should agree to do something about this insurrection. Kryptkor - Well, I already gave my idea. I'm open for more suggestions. Ravir - I say we embrace a change. Or at least discuss with Crispy. We cannot show violence if he does not first. Savas - I say we remove Tyraz from his throne, destroy all the Zazane who betrayed the Brood, and have me as their appropriate emperor! Kryptkor - You? You're gonna send us to hell with your blind bloodlust. Savas - Blind bloodlust? I am the Icon, I represent everything that is Zazane! Sanron - I think we should go with Kryptkor's assassination idea. Kryptkor - Zazane are more than just warmonger animals. This is one of the reasons I'm not among the Wranploer anymore, they though just like you. Vecuarden - I'm up for perhaps embracing Crispy as new emperor. So far he has proved himself a good, controlled leader. Kryptkor - We still don't know what he hides. I'm sure behind that smile there's a sword ready to cut our heads off. Keldar - Are you insane, Vecuarden? We should kill everybody affiliated with the insurrection, and keep Tyraz seated upon his throne. He has earned his right. Tyraz - I myself am unsure about what to do, he somehow knows how to persuade Zazane colonies onto his side without the usage of violence. Tyraz - I will ask, who here still thinks I should remain as emperor? Kryptkor - I do. Keldar - I am with Kryptkor. Sanron - I am with those two. Vecuarden - I am against, I'd like a change of leader. Savas - As would I! Ravir - Perhaps Crispy would make for a good leader...He seems to be proving his worth. Kryptkor - Hmm. Tyraz - So I see. Well, I suppose the best we can do is try and talk with Crispy about his intentions. He's a revolutionist but none like I've seen before. Who is up for meeting with him? Kryptkor - Fine...have a meeting. Tyraz - I assume that you, Kryptkor, wouldn't like to meet with him? Kryptkor - Me? Guess I could. Keldar - You are a brave man, Kryptkor. This Crispy guy could make an attempt on your life. Kryptkor - Hahah! If he tries then all that will remain of him is a frozen skeleton. Tyraz - Somehow, I think Crispy knows it would be best not to attack him. Kryptkor, we will be needing to send you into the Valisarr Sector of our territory, where the Golden Movement has been recorded most. Kryptkor - So be it. Tyraz - Try not to kill him on sight, it would not be good for our reputations. Kryptkor - I'll do my best to resist the temptation.

Kryptkor chuckled.

Keldar - You won't be smirking when you see what his ships are capable of doing to ours. Kryptkor - I'm aware, don't worry. Keldar - Good. I wouldn't want anything happening to you.

Kryptkor raises an eyebow and smiles slighty, before looking at Tyraz again.

Kryptkor - So, when am I going? Tyraz - As soon as possible. Remember, you're going to find out what his agendas are, not to taunt or threaten him. Kryptkor - Understood. Tyraz - Right, has anybody got anything else to add.

The group shook their heads. Tyraz nodded and stood.

Tyraz - You are free to go.

Doricas Prime
Crispy's ship arrives in orbit above a civilized world within the Draconid Imperium, Doricas Prime,. The orbital area was moderately busy. Crispy opened his communication screen when he recieved an incoming transmission.

STC - Zazane vessel this is space traffic control. Please state your purpose of visit. Crispy - This is captain Crispy of the Orochi. I have arrived to discuss matters of diplomacy with the highest authority. STC - Understood. Give us a few minutes.

A draconis appears on the screen, but it was not the praetor, in fact the Draconis looked nothing much of royalty.

Draconis - Apparently you wish to speak to the highest authority on the planet. Do you have business with the praetor? Crispy - I request an appointment with the Praetor, if it is available.

The Draconis looks down at the screen, and examines it.

Draconis - Let's see... I might be able to give you a slot at 2pm tomorrow. What is the purpose of the appointment? Crispy - I wish to discuss a possible alliance between House Valocanus and my own faction, the Golden Movement. Draconis - I see...In that case you might be able to see him this time next week. How does that sound? Crispy - I am afraid that this is something of an urgent situation.

The Draconis tilted it's head.

Draconis - Can you elaborate? Crispy - We may not be in this region by next week. I am running a heated campaign. Draconis - Oh, so this matter is a political matter? Look, I cannot slot you in any time today. Crispy - I will only require an hour of the Praetor's time. Draconis - The praetor's schedule is very busy. If you can be so brief then perhaps we can fit you an appointment tomorrow morning?

Crispy nods understandingly.

Crispy - Okay, tomorrow morning is great. I must apologize for my haste, I have had a very stressful experience recently. Draconis - I will let him know. Good day.

The following day, Crispy arrives outside the government building of Doricas Prime. Surrounded by luxurious high-rise, the look of the building was definitely intended to impress. He observes the building and he smiles somewhat, it was a lot more beautiful than the bone-ridden cities of the Brood.

Crispy - The Imperium is indeed a paradise, it seems...

The building was guarded at the front by a member of the planet's Domestic Security force. She was eyeing the busy crowds.Crispy walks up to the guard, protected by his own two Zazane guards as well.

Officer - Hold it, what is your business here. Unless you have business inside I suggest you move along. Crispy - I do indeed have business inside. With Praetor Taremanon.

The officer stood aside and a camera projected a laser scanner onto Crispy's face. After a few seconds the officer had a green blue flash on a console attached to her wrist. She tilted her head to indicate Crispy was allowed in

Officer - Top floor, but he's not in too good a mood. Crispy - Don't worry, I'm not here to causes trouble. Officer - I hope not.

She glared at Crispy as he walked towards the entrance. Crispy walks inside, leaving his guards outside as he assures them. He walks over to an elevator, while he examines the area. The lobby consisted of a marble floor with red velvet carpets. Adorning the walls alongside paintings were banners showing the crest of House Valocanus on a deep blue background. Crispy walked a little slower to enjoy the view.

Crispy - House Valocanus sure has done well for themselves.

Several well-dressed aliens of all varieties come and go. Some looknig pleased while others looked miserable.

Crispy - <> Elevator System - Welcome to the Korserium city governmental offices. Please select a floor. Crispy - Top floor, if you would be so kind.

The doors close in front of him.

Elevator System - Heading to floor 57.

Crispy waits patiently, while looking at a light to his side that indicates he is going up. As Crispy waited several aliens joined and left him in the elevaator with their own destinations in mind. One Terratrik child cheekily slammed his palm on the floor select menu. Crispy looks to the child.

Crispy - I don't think you should be doing that.

An adult, most likely a parent, pulled the child close to him and looked at the boy with a scowl, then looked at Crispy.

Adult - He's not causing too much trouble is he? Crispy - Of course not, heh. I just hope the Praetor doesn't mind me being a little off schedule. Adult - Don't worry, this lift will keep going up then it will go down. Crispy - Ah, thank you for the information. It is much appreciated.

The adult looks to the child.

Adult - However someone won't be getting their special treat if they keep messing about.

The pair left the elevator and by the time Crispy reached the top he was the only one inside. Crispy walked out of the elevator and he looked about. A receptionist looked up at Crispy and nodded for him to head inside, the Praetor was already waiting. He walks past the receptionist and into the Praetor's office. He stayed quiet as he entered and looked straight to Taremanon. The lobby was more opulent than the main one, and the Praetor's office was shaded in deep blues for the walls and a striking red carpet. Numerous paintings were on the wall and the room echoes with the soothing sounds of orchestral music. Taremanon sat behind a large desk made of dark wood marked with numerous engravings. He looked up from a flat computer screen to Crispy.

Taremanon - Ah. You must be the Zazane I was informed about... Crisper was it?

Crispy bows a little to Taremanon and then chuckles.

Crispy - It's Crispy, sir. But you were close. Taremanon - My receptionis told me that you wanted to make a deal. Something about goings-on in the Brood of War? Crispy - You are correct, sir. I am the commander and leader of a faction known as the Golden Movement, otherwise known as Crispy's Insurrection. Our goal is to take Tyraz off the throne, seeing as nobody else is willing.

Taremanon sits forward.

Taremanon - Tyraz, eh? Heh, the little slime has caused me a grave deal of torment! Crispy - He has caused a lot of people torment. He is not fit to be a leader, he has his violent tendencies which display he isn't in control of even himself. Taremanon - Agreed. The way he executed my own nephew was disgraceful. And I am certain that tribunal was intentinally swaying in Tyraz's favour! Crispy - It wouldn't surprise me, he is in good relations with a lot of high Imperial authority, such as Larnus. Taremanon - Larnus is a bold commander, but the half-blood need to learn when to keep his mouth shut! Crispy - It hasn't been the first time. Tyraz has been known for acts of sadism for a while, and these go against the usual culture of Zazane. Taremanon - I would rather not go against the desires of the Grand Senate. They prefer good terms with the Brood of War and if it arose that I was supporting the leader of an insurrection. Well, I would prefer execution. Crispy - But we are not rebelling against the Brood. Taremanon - You have a point. However the same could be said for House Khaxvis. However unlike those cretins, I am informed you do not wish to shed Zazane blood, this may work in our favour. Crispy - Tyraz is not fit to lead Zazane. The public dislikes him, his own family hates him, and there are reasons for that. I just wish the best for Zazane, you are aware how many Zazane have died while under Tyraz's reign? Taremanon - A lot, correct? Crispy - Due to their dislike of him, many have decided to rebel. But he has decided to kill them off instead of sorting things out diplomatically. Taremanon - Rebels and traitors are often executed within the Imperium. But the reason for their rebellion must always be taken into account. Crispy - Tyraz cannot control his aggression, he is not even truly Zazane anymore. He has given up his body to some sort of demon, in exchange for power. He does not even try to prevent them before they start. Taremanon - I am aware of that...thing he enjoys transfomring into. He killed my nephew horribly in that state. Crispy - It is not even within Zazane culture to be so sadistic, and to perform it outside of Brood territory can be considered a betrayal of trust. Taremanon - I want Tyraz to suffer my pain, my nephew's pain! Give me satisfaction and a reason why you would be better than him and you have my support. Crispy - I do not agree with how violent and barbaric the Brood has become. I have many Zazane under my wing, and the worlds they come from have become increased in technological advancement and quality of life. Aggression and anger has been reduced thus far. Taremanon - Interesting.... Crispy - Also, I will make sure Tyraz bothers you know more, and that no Zazane shall get in the personal business of any of your house. Taremanon - A tempting offer... Seeing as we both want Tyraz gone I can offer my support. I can provide equipment and supplies for your forces. Consider it an...

Termanon rotates his wrist.

Taremanon - ...aid package.

Crispy smiles and nods to him.

Crispy - Thank you, sir. Also, something you should know... Taremanon - What.

Crispy leans in and whispers to Taremanon about the details of the undead rising sometime ago, and how it was linked to Tyraz's spawn.

Crispy - The conflict began when Tyraz's son, a hideous abomination known as Kezoreg, was born from his mother's womb. The very planet he was born on was ready to collapse in on itself from the moment he arrived. And then, it happened. Tyraz's long-dead relative, a vile piece of Shyrak known as Moxix, arose from his grave with the power of five divine beings at his very fingertips. He resurrected the dead, in an attempt to kill of ALL life within this very universe, and desired to strike revenge against Tyraz.

Taremanon's eye widens and he clenches his fists.

Taremanon - That krann dung-eating scum! Crispy - Now you see how dangerous he is? Could you imagine would what would happen if he has more?

Taremanon sits in his chair, growling.

Taremanon - I want him to suffer for it all. Crispy - He shall, just give it time. Taremanon - You have your support. Is there anything else? Crispy - It is not required, but may we have several blueships for your ships? Taremanon - Any Imperial Talon warship blueprints are confidential. It is the military council's call, not mine. Crispy - That is fine. We still thank you for your support. It would be much appreciated if you spread the word of our cause. Taremanon - News like this? I am considering it.

Crispy nods and stands.

Crispy - Tyraz is the vile, demonic scum that plagues Andromeda. He has committed far more heinous crimes than most warlords in Zazane history. Taremanon - It sounds like you speak the truth. If you have nthing else, I have other appointments.

Crispy nods and begins to walk towards the door.

Crispy - Good luck, sir.

Some time after, Crispy was back aboard the Orochi, leaving Doriaca Prime while several of the Insurrection ships were collecting resources. He was smiling, with Kharnes watching as they left the system.

Kharnes - I assume everything went well? Crispy - Very well. We have support from inside the Imperium, the Brood's most major ally. Kharnes - It is common knowledge that Uriel, their Paragon, is good friends with the scum. Crispy - Indeed, perhaps I could use this to my advantage.

At that moment, a Zazane walked in. Crispy stood and turned to the Zazane, and he smiled.

Crispy - You must be Rozarel, Tolodon's son. Rozarel - Yes, I am your new fleet commander, correct? Crispy - One of them, yes. I hope you're more patient and intelligent than Odankai. Rozarel - The old fellow? Of course! I heard you destroyed him and his ship. Crispy - Yes, but such matters are not important as of now. Rozarel - Of course. Crispy - You are to take control of a modified Ruin Juggernaut, known as Beast Bane. Rozarel - Affirmative, my lord. Crispy - Please, it's "sir". I'm no deity. Rozarel - Oh, right. Sorry, sir.

Rozarel left the room, and Crispy sat back down in his seat. Things could only get better from here, and he smirked, beginning to chuckle. Suddenly, he recieved a transmission, and answered.

Crispy - What is it? Zazane - You're not going to believe this sir, but... Crispy - Hmm? Zazane - K-Kryptkor Talsar, of the Council of the Brood...

Crispy felt like his stomach did a circular turn, and he coughed a little, out of nervousness. However, he soon regained his composure, and he laxed his shoulders, sitting calmly.

Crispy - He is here? Zazane - He requests to see you...in person... Crispy - Alright. He shall get what he wishes.

Cold King
After a brief transmission between ships, Kryptkor was allowed entry on board the Orochi, and he walked through the gold-plated corridors of the ship until eventually he was guided into a moderately-sized meeting room with a large table at the centre, with Crispy on one end of the table. The room had banners of the Insurrection attached to the walls, to remind visitors what it was that Crispy stood for.

Crispy - Ah, hello, stranger. Kryptkor - Hm...interesting design...and you must be the one they call "Crispy". Crispy - You are correct, my dear sir. You must be Kryptkor Talsar, from...remind me where it was again? That galaxy? Kryptkor - Borealis is the name. Crispy - Ah yes, Borealis. Please, take a seat.

Kryptkor sat down on one of the seats, which were somewhat comfortable.

Crispy - So, what would you like? Food, drink? Kryptkor - I am not hungry, or thirsty. I've come here to do some, let's say, research. Crispy - Research? Why, what interests you? Kryptkor - Your insurrection. Crispy - Ah, I figured the Council would've taken an interest. Kryptkor - We want to know why, exactly, you're doing this. I know your movement is peaceful and I'm not here to fight you about it. Crispy - It's simple, really. We want to employ a new democratical system, and we also want Tyraz off the throne. Kryptkor - I see. And why do you want Tyraz off the throne? Crispy - I'm surprised this hasn't reached anybody's attention yet.

Crispy sighs and drinks some water from a glass.

Crispy - Tyraz is a broken man. He is not fit to lead. He gave up his dignity and sanity for power, and anybody who says against is branded a rebel and killed. Kryptkor - I would not say so. The Brood would not exist if it was not for him. Crispy - Ah, of course. He made a promise to keep the Zazane race strong, thus how the Brood was formed. Or at least, that's what is taught in schools. Kryptkor - His efforts were valuable for the end of the Andromeda War. Plus, my entire race is in debt with him. Crispy - His efforts effected the galaxy as a whole, but I'm not here to change the galaxy. He is lost, and broken. He can hardly control himself. Kryptkor - Well I'm part of the Council and I don't find that true. So far I don't see why you would be a better leader than him. Crispy - Take a look at the worlds under the inflluence of the Golden Movement. They are advancing on a technological scale, and the quality of life is increasing for Zazane on these planets. I have stronger ships and soldiers. I'm also in control of my own being and I plan to fulfill his lost promises. Kryptkor - Everyone can get technology these days. I could send a team to Borealis and get lots of goods for our own ships. I hope you don't expect me to believe that what you have here is all Zazane-made. Also, by what I've heard about you, you seen a little xenophobic toward aliens. In a society like this, this is a really big downside. Crispy - You accuse me of xenophobia? Whatever gave you that impression? Kryptkor - By what I've heard you don't seem to like how Tyraz interacts with our allied empires. Crispy - Oh, well do you not think there is a border between an alliance and then actually cuddling up to aliens in their bedside at night? Kryptkor - I fail to see how that affects the Brood of War as a whole. Crispy - The public, or at least a large majority, does not agree with such connections. Aliens joining the Brood and the Brood allying with aliens is fine, but going so far as to produce spawn...especially spawn that heralds the start of an undead uprising. Kryptkor - Trying to use one's personal life as a weapon is very low. Crispy - Do you not know of the Holy Shadow War? Kryptkor - I've heard of it. Something about an undead army. My galaxy was not affected by it. Crispy - Basically, Tyraz's first son is born, Tyraz's step-brother arises from his grave with deities at his hand, and causes the dead to pop up from their graves and kill for vengeance against Tyraz claiming Moxix's throne. Kryptkor - Huh. By the sounds of it, it would have happened independant of who was the ruler at the time. Crispy - Perhaps, but point is Tyraz was leader at the time. And if he wasn't leader, he wouldn't have had relations with that cretin known as Lezia, and thus his son wouldn't have been spawned, and so no undead uprising would've occured. It all comes together. Kryptkor - Trapping yourself on the past will not solve any problems. Now, there's only one thing left to ask before I leave. What exactly do you plan to do if your movement succeeds? Crispy - I plan to employ a true democratic system, increase the quality of life amongst Brood colonies, and bring the Zazane into a new age of technological advancement that benefits us all.

Kryptkor narrows his eyes at Crispy.

Kryptkor - How can I know you mean all of this? Crispy - Why would I want to plunge our race into despair? Kryptkor - You can tempt others with promises like these, but what if you're just as bad as you portrait Tyraz, if not worse? Crispy - True, how can you trust a man like me? Oh, well just ask any Zazane or alien on this ship about the colony they're from. They will tell you just how my movement has increased their quality and outlook on living.

Kryptkor rubs his chin, remaining silent for some seconds.

Kryptkor - ...Very well. I have no more business here. Crispy - Fine. I hope you have a safe trip back.

Kryptkor leaves the Orochi, silently, back to his own ship. Crispy smiled as he made his way back to the cockpit, and sat in his thrown. He watched as Kryptkor's ship made its way from Crispy's territory, and nodded.

Crispy - Yes, tell Tyraz of my plans. Tell the Council what I think, and see how many friends it gets you. Pirate scum.

The Paragon's Ear
Taremanon could not get Crispy's words out of his mind. It itched at him for days until he dicided he may as well speak. He contacted Uriel and within two days the RASC Alaveas, Uriel's personal cruiser, arrived in orbit above Vanexia Prime. Uriel, joined by Dragon Captain Davius, Alessa and six other bodygaurds arrived in the starport. It had been three years since the invasion by the TIAF and most of the rebuilding efforts had been completed.

Uriel was greted by a Chauffer who took him and Davius to a villa several kilometres o nthe outskirts of the city. Uriel was not dressed formally but he had taken the effort to look presentable. Taremanon was waiting for him and had a pained smile on his face. He opened his arms out and he and Uriel embraced each other.

Taremanon - ''Uriel! It must have been, what, four years since we last met eye-to-eye?''

He turned to Alessa with a smile. He walked up to her and gently held her hand. She smiled weakly.

Taremanon - It must have have been almost decade since we last met, how you have changed. Alessa - Why think you praetor. I am glad you have noticed.'' Uriel - Taremanon, when you are done sizing up my daughter for one of your heirs, you mentioned you had something to discuss?

Alessa puleld her hand away and stepped backward. Taremanon sighed.

Taremanon - ''You are right. Come, I wish to speak with you privately in the drawing room.''

He walked towards a stairway and Uriel followed, along with Davius and four Blood Dragons. Taremanon turned around and scolded.

Taremanon - I said privately. Davius - No offense, praetor, but I made it my duty to protect Uriel at all times. Uriel - Davius, would it be acceptable if you joined us to the door?

Davius nodded with a mix of dissapointment and acceptance. He muttered with muted dissatisfaction as Alessa was left downstairs with her own bodyguard pair.

They walked down a hall and after eyeing a few painings the group arrived at a set of red wooden double-doors. Taremanon beckoned Uriel inside. The cupped hand turned to a palm when Davius tried to enter. Uriel noded ot him and savius let out a weary sigh as he stood outside with four blood dragons.

Taremanon pulled a cork from a bottle of 50-year-old Vanexian Green. He poured two glasses and handed one tu Uriel who was admiring the decor of the room. Taremanon gestured twards a seating area in the corner and both of them relaxed in a pair of loungers.

Taremanon - ''Uriel, I contacted you because I was informed by an.... anonymous source. He relayed information to me regarding Tyraz--''

Uriel raised his hand swiftly.

Uriel - Taremanon, we may be old friends, but I hope you do not plan on forcing an end to the realtion between Tyraz and I. Taremanon - ''That is not my intention, Uriel. I only wish to relay what has been passed to me. The reason I wanted you alone ot hear it was because I am concerned for you. You are closer to him than anyone I know in the Imperium. I would nto tell you this if I did not think it was important.'' Uriel - I am aware of your feelings for TYaz, I know waht it is like to lose a relative that close. Taremanon - I assure you that I am not doing this in Tervos's name. I worry that my paragon could get hurt.'' Uriel - ''Alright. What were you told?''

Taremanon nodded and removed a chip from his pocket. He inserted it into an audio player and called for it to play a file that contained a recording of Crispy's words when he whispered into Taremanon's ear. The voice had been made more audiable and was masked tohide Crispy's real voice. Uriel's eyes widerend at the mention of Kezoreg.

Uriel - Are you telling me that that boy's birth caused a dead Zazane to rise up from the grave along with every dead being in the galaxy? Taremanon - ''Not just the galaxy. Most of the Gigaquadrant was affected. I cannto truly explain the nature of the event but that boy destroyed a planet and caused the undead crisis a decade ago. Whatever he did, Tyraz was responsible for allowing such a bir--''

Uriel pulled himself up and put the glass on the counter.

Uriel - ''Pick your next words carefully, Praetor. I happen to have met Kezoreg, my own son spent time with him and while he has his aggressive and spoiled tendencies, he is not a being of pure malice as your 'souce' sugests.'' Taremanon - It is likely Tyraz did not know what he was doing. Consider this Uriel. If that child did that from the primal instincts present in all infants, imagine what he could do if he continued acting the brat? Imagine what would happen if Tyraz tried again with the Clericarch? I do not want you or your family hurt.''

Uriel growled subvocally and clenched his fists.

Uriel - ''Praetor I do not think you have gotten over Tervos's execution. Larnus told me of your behaviour in the Tribunal, you hate Tyraz with a passion. You call me here to Tervos's fromer residence, provide me with difficult-to-believe information on one of the darkest periods of the era and expect me to see your point of view.''

Uriel relaxed somewhat and sipped more of his drink.

Uriel - ''Tyraz has good intentions. He wants to do well, he wants the best for the Zazane. When are you going to let this--''

Taremanon stood up from his lounger stormed over to glare down at Uriel with furious eyes. His lips rippled as he growled before speaking.

Taremanon - ''Let it go? LET. IT. GO!? You try saying that when you saw one of your own kin personally grow up, watched has he was falsely accused as a defector then slaughtered in the most savage and torturous way to ever come out of a savage barbarian's mind! That bastard enjoyed tearing my nephew apart and I am certain he would be happy to do it again.''

Uriel put his glass on the counter and swiftly stood up.

Uriel - ''So you did bring me here to be an antagoniser to my connections. You don't know Tyraz as I do Taremanon, in fact he has told me personally that he regrets his former marriage. He does not want to be the monster people see him as and I advise you let it go before you make another mistake.'' Taremanon - ''My nephew's spirit demands justice, Uriel. He was falsely accused and I demand he pay the price.''

Uriel sighed and walked towards the door. Taremanon looked at him with surprise.

Taremaonon - Where are you going!? Uriel - ''If I cannot convince you otherwise then I see no other point to this meeting. Your nephew is dead and crying for justice won't bring him back from the dead... Larnus onformed me that when he was rescued from Avanti he had been condescending to both and insulting to Tyraz. During his trieal he was given the options of execution orliving as a houseless and Tervos perferred death over bing an outcast.'' Taremanon - ''He asked to be executed? Then why did the court not simply orter to shoot him in the heart!''

Uriel shrugged with a sigh. He had no idea, only knowing that Tyraz had requested to be the executor. He decided not ot mention this to Taremanon and quietly left the room. Davius was waiting outside and saluted Uriel as he walked out.

Uriel - ''My affairs are done here. Contact the ship to prepare for my departure.'' Davius - What exactly happened in there? Uriel - ''...Nothing. We had a little social disagreement, nothing more. Taremanon will needs some time alone.'' Davius - Understood, Lord.

They all headed to the lobby and called for Alessa to meet them in the gardens out in the front. She was with one of Taremanon's sons who had been wooing herfor the past hour in one of the estate's other rooms. A mix of joy and disapointment spread across her face. Although the man was nice and she felt a connection, he was a little overbearing for her tastes.

When they arrived in the ocurtyard a shuttle arrived to return them to Alcanti. Despite his best to defend his friend, Uriel wondered of Taremanon was right. He had heard how Zazane were disapproving of Tyraz partially because of who his parents were. But unknowingly a seed had been planeted in his mind; Taremano nhad been a close ally of his and had lasted much longer than his relation with Tyraz. WHo was he to believe?

Taking Matters Into Their Own Hands
Admiral Tzena of the travelled through Brood and Crispy space in the USS Victory, preparing an assault on the insurrection with her fleet. She was confident she would win this battle.

Tzena - Pfft, this Golden Movement. I swear, nothing golden about it.

Admiral Basshu was on the USS Kavelentat, also travelling with the fleet.

Basshu - Why exactly did we take this mission again? I thought you had a grudge against Tyraz. Tzena - I might as well dispose of this Crispy guy so that I can kill Tyraz myself later.

Basshu and Tzena recieved an incoming transmission from a ship within Crispy's territory, and answered.

Tzena - Unknown transmission, state your identity and purpose.

Suddenly, a black and gold Zazane appeared on the communications screen, sitting calmly in his seat.

Crispy - Why hello there, I was assuming you were not of Brood origin. Basshu - We decrypted his transmission signature, apparently this guy is the Crispy we've been looking for. Tzena - Well, well, then, Crispy. I must say that your certainly less crisp than I expected. Crispy - You came into my territory just to make bad puns? You are aware that I am taking time out of my day to talk to you. Tzena - Then I'll cut to the chase, you oddly-colored Zazane. The TIAF has ordered me to subdue your uprising against Tyraz and the Brood of War. Crispy - Now why on Tropicana would you do such a kind gesture for Tyraz? Tzena - Not my own accord. The TIAF wants to maintain the political stability of post-war Andromeda and they believe your uprising is not helping. Basshu - Simply put, we don't need another rebellion in a friendly nation. Crispy - And who made this your business? I do not aim to destroy the Brood, this is a matter of internal politics. Rear Admiral Piett - If I may, I'm surprised no one expected this seeing how often the TIAF intervenes- Tzena - Enough, Piett. Now, Crispy, just surrender like a good boy and I won't have to use force. Basshu - You don't want to be around when she uses force. Crispy - How many ships have you brought with you, stranger? Tzena - That's none of your business, pest. Probably more than you could ever hope to bring together, not discounting the fact they'll probably all be beating each other with sticks right now.

Crispy nodded and smirked a little.

Crispy - I see. So a small force then? Basshu - He's acting coy, my lady. Tzena - I know. That's why I'm not telling him. Crispy - I have no time for games just now. Perhaps later when I'm done with my important business. Tzena - You have no important business to deal with now, because as of now you will be coming under the custody of the Federation. Come with us peacefully so I won't have to blow that silly little ship of yours into the next multiverse. Crispy - I'm sure not even Tyraz supports this action. Tzena - Perhaps not. But like I said, I don't really give a damn about what Tyraz thinks. Now, you are coming with us. Crispy - I disagree, stranger. Basshu - Your cute little security force is no match for two highly-trained TIAF regiments. Crispy - Security force?

Many ships of varying classes began to uncloak as Crispy said those words, and he began to smirk while looking at the TIAF fleet calmly.

Piett - That's a big security force. Basshu - Er, my lady... Tzena - Ha. You're still going to die either way. Crispy - Of course, stranger. Of course I am. Tzena - Cheeky bastard. Vice Admiral Lee - Awaiting your orders, Admiral. Crispy - Yes, stranger. He's awaiting your orders. Tzena - Well then, I won't keep you waiting. All battleships, forward barrage! Crispy - I'll let you make first move. Basshu - You heard my lady, all warships, position for forward turbolaser barrage.

Lee began relaying the orders to the fleet.

Lee - Fighters scramble, disable their engines.

Crispy folds his arms and awaits the incoming fire from the TIAF fleet. TIAF weapons begin lighting up and firing into Crispy's fleet, while fighters swarm the large ships and aim for shield generators and engines. Crispy's ship suddenly send out several beams of golden energy at the larger TIAF ships, causing devastating damage as they pierce through forcefields and also explode several smaller ships. He uttered quietly to himself.

Crispy - Rezadanmaku. Tzena - What?! Raise the transphasic shields. Repair ships, fix up the ships damaged by the attack. McCoy - USS Artotunus is hit, we are assessing the damage. We cannot identify what it was that hit us yet.

Crispy's fleet then begins unleashing their own barrage of energy blasts at the smaller ships, devastating and destroying many as they attempt to strike them down.

Basshu - Point defense you asshats! Come on! Crispy - You seem surprised. Were you expecting our ships to be equal to those of the Brood?

TIAF ships begin trying to aim at the oncoming barrage and shoot down the beams.

Tzena - On the contrary, Roasty, I enjoy a challenge. Show them why we came here. Hypercruise missiles, take down their main attack ships!

There was a blinding flash and suddenly several very high-speed missiles come flying at Crispy's fleet. Crispy watched calmly.

Crispy - ...Kuroana. Vice Admiral Fegelein - Incoming, cover up!

Seemingly out of nowhere, a black hole begins manifesting in between the fleets, and Crispy's fleet begin to turn back a little in order to avoid being sucked into the black hole, though the missiles were fed to the devastating beast.

Basshu - Ha! Black holes. Worthless.

TIAF ships turn on anti-gravity shields. Crispy smirks and nods.

Crispy - I'm impressed. Tzena - We invented black hole weapons long before I was born, Roasty, do you really think we'd fall for this one? Crispy - Ichisenreza! Fegelein - English, motherf*cker! Do you speak it!

TIAF returns with a turbolaser barrage. Crispy's fleet, including the Orochi begin to gather golden energy. All at once, the many ships fire hundreds of golden laser blasts, piercing shields and causing massive damage to the enemy fleet.

Piett - The hell is that shit? Basshu - I don't know, but it's tearing up our shields. My lady? Tzena - Clever bastard, you think you're so cool because you have shield penetration? Suspension shields at the ready when they fire again. Crispy - My ships are much more powerful than what the Brood has to offer. Shidium power cores in the newer models of ships provide an excellent source of power. So much power. McCoy - I call hax on this Shidium stuff! Fegelein - Enough, McCoy, we already know the Zazane are a race of haxxors. Crispy - Shidium is a hypermatter, you fools. Tzena - I've had enough experience beating Zazane skulls in to know what it is, idiot. Return fire, repair ships take cover while you're repairing. Crispy - Are you sure you're going to have enough power keeping sheilds up and attacking? Tzena - We have all the power in the world, Roasty. Even I don't know how that even works.

Missiles and turbolasers fire into Crispy's fleet and impact some of the lead ships. Crispy smirks and starts to chuckle.

Basshu - Not liking the sound of this guy. Lee - Wonder what kind of other tricks the bastard's got up his sleeve. Crispy - You've seen Rezadanmaku, and you've seen Kuroana. Now, I bet you haven't seen one of the Orochi's stronger attacks... McCoy - That shit isn't even it's strongest attack? Piett - This guy is friggin high, I swear. Crispy - Which ship shall I attack... Tzena - Bring it on, Roasty. I bet you don't even have it in you.

Crispy points towards Tzena's ship on a panel in front of him displaying the battle.

Crispy - Rezakasai.

Tzena - All power to shield and power armor. Basshu - My lady...

Suddenly, the Orochi began to manifest golden energy at it's many gun barrels, aiming towards the USS Victory.

Crispy - I hope you have a space suit on you, stranger. Shielding Officer - Admiral, shield and armor levels are maxed out.

Tzena re-adjusts the zipper on her hazard suit and takes a deep breath. Suddenly, there was a huge, blinding blast of golden energy, engulfing the Victory's shield and putting up an impressive fight against it. Tzena covers her eyes from the blast and moves her hand over the button of her hazard suit. The shield detoriates from the high amount of Shidium energy being fired, and as it breaks, the blast fires through the Victory.

Crispy - That lasted longer than it should've. The Rezakasai needed more energy than what it usually would take. I'm impressed that you managed to hold it off for a few minutes. Tzena - Hehe, that's only a minor puncture. I can get that fixed up. As for you...

The Victory retreats behind the rest of the main warships.

Basshu - Light that bastard up!

The main TIAF warships all aim their weapons at Crispy's ship. Crispy smirks as they all aim their weapons at the Orochi.

Crispy - Hehe, you'd dare? Fegelein - You're sleeping with the space fish tonight, buddy.

The warships all fire at once on Crispy. Crispy clicks his fingers, and as he does the attacks engulf the ship in blasts and explosions.

Piett - Goodnight.

When all the attacks stop, there was a faint, visible shield around the Orochi, depleted greatly from all the attacks.

Basshu - Bastard. Toast this guy one more time, looks like we didn't leave him in the oven long enough.

Hypercruise missiles cruise in from the back of the fleet to hit the shield again. The shield breaks, though as it does, the Orochi unleashes many swirls of golden energy at its attackers, piercing shields and causing considerable damage to the attacking ships, as the golden energy spirals through their frames.

Crispy - ...Rezauzamaki. Fegelein - The shields are ailing, Lord Basshu, what do we do? Basshu - Bastard was a tricky one. My lady? Tzena - Grr... This guy's more resilient than he looks. Keep fighting!

Several larger, modified warships begin to join Crispy, and fire at maximum power towards the TIAF ships, while joined by hundreds of fighters and many cruisers.

Basshu - Shit! Dodge! Crispy - My ship is enough to challenge, even defeat, a small fleet. Imagine what my whole fleet can do! Tzena - I won't allow such insults be made to the TIAF! Frigates, warp crash method go!

Smaller TIAF frigates crash into enemy ships at warp speed while firing forward lasers.

Crispy - Hmph, kamikaze method huh? Tzena - Not just that.

Missiles follow the warp-crashing frigates and hit enemy shields in weak points. Crispy smiles and raises a hand.

Crispy - Halt the fight.

Tzena raises an eyebrow and hesistates, but then raises a hand to stop.

Tzena - You better not be trying something, you little git.

Crispy smirks.

Crispy - What do you plan to do with me in your captivity? Tzena - The Federation will hand you over to Tyraz so that he can deal with you in whatever way he pleases. Or we could just kill you on the spot. Crispy - Oh is that so? Hmph, alright. I forfeit. Basshu - I don't believe him. Tzena - The Federation will decide what to do with you. I won't promise that they actually send you to Tyraz. But thank you for surrendering.

Crispy smiles and folds arms.

Crispy - Kharnes, from now on, you are to lead the Orochi. Kharnes - Hmph, what are you doing? Crispy - Make sure you spread the news.

Kharnes nods.

Kharnes - Alright, sir. I shall. Basshu - I don't like it, my lady. He gave up too easy, after his fleet had an advantage. Tzena - I'm not one to argue, Basshu, I honestly don't care what happens to this guy as long as the TIAF isn't getting blown up for it. Crispy - You're going to have to collect me personally though. After all, I don't trust my ship on your half of this space. Basshu - Suspicious... Tzena - McCoy, pick him up in the Artotunus. McCoy - Roger.

Crispy smirks and winks.

Crispy - Reza... McCoy - This is the USS Artotunus to the Orochi, hand over Crispy, please.

The Artotunus lines up to dock with the Orochi.

Crispy - ...kasai! Fegelein - Hell is that...

Crispy chuckles and laughs.

Crispy - Just joking! I'll come quietly. Basshu - This guy is an asshat. McCoy - Just get on board.

Crispy boards the Artotunus calmly and looks back to his crew for one last time, smirking.

Tzena - Prepare to return to Stafamur base, we will meet up with the 2nd Fleet and the USS Caigiancia there. McCoy - Aye, aye. Kharnes - Hmph. You'd better not get in our way next time. Basshu - Well, there won't be a next time, Kharnes, because you had better hope not to cross us next time. Just imagine what we could do with a full fleet. Kharnes - Come and say that to my face, alien! Basshu - Alright, hey, you watching? You. Better. Hope. Not. To. Cross. Us. NEXT. TIME.

The two fleets seperated, with Kharnes now guiding the way for the Golden Movement for now. Meanwhile, Crispy closed his eyes and slept, a smirk upon his face as he did.

Report
Kryptkor walked into Tyraz's throne room, which was covered in Brood banners and many historic weapons from the past, as well as armour and long pages attached the walls, detailing the many battles from history that the Zazane had fought. Tyraz awoke from his slumber shortly after Kryptkor entered, and he placed a hand against his crest. He blinked a few times before standing and walking over to him.

Tyraz - Kryptkor, how was your visit? Kryptkor - Annoying. I seriously hate this Crispy's attitude. Tyraz - I think we can both agree on that. What did you find out? Kryptkor - Not much. Only the whole "I should be leader, Tyraz is weak" thing we've been hearing. Tyraz - Hmph, so not a lot. Has he told you his reasons in detail? Kryptkor - He mentioned the Holy Shadow War, saying it was your fault. Tyraz - You would not have known of it. But I do have some involvement. What surprises me is that he knows of my involvement, it's not public knowledge. Kryptkor - That's one thing. He kept using your personal life to trash talk you. Tyraz - That's rather low. My people already know of my relations, thanks to Savas. Kryptkor - He kept talking about how his Insurrection had more advanced tech than the Brood. I doubt it's all Zazane-made, though. Tyraz - Probably not. But if he has help from aliens, then it shows he has some advantage. Kryptkor - We have many allies in many galaxies. I doubt he would have as much support as us. Tyraz - Still, can you confirm his technology is more advanced than ours? Kryptkor - As much as I don't like to, yes it is capable of overpowering our current spaceship models. Tyraz - Then we are at a disadvantage. We cannot attack both in the risk of causing uproar from the public, and that we may get defeated. Kryptkor - What should we do then? Tyraz - What would you recommend? Kryptkor - Sincerely, I don't know... Tyraz - Kryptkor, if everything goes wrong, and Crispy ends up taking over...I want you to return to Borealis, if you so wish. Kryptkor - I don't wish to return. That galaxy is a hellhole, infested with everything bad and more. Don't worry Tyraz, nothing's gonna happen. We'll deal with this like we've dealt with all other revolutions. You know you can count on me for that. Tyraz - But everything is different now, Kryptkor. This man, if your information is correct, has the strength to back up his words. And of course, Zazane value strength... Kryptkor - You'll see, it's a matter if time until his true face shows up. I doubt he's this good all the time. Tyraz - Perhaps, but I've not shown myself as much of a hero. Kryptkor - Well you're certainly a hero for me and my people. If you had not reached us, we would still be pawns of a power-hungry pirate. Tyraz - True. For now, you are my only real defence against Crispy. Kryptkor - If that's so then count with my protection.

Tyraz places a hand on Kryptkor's shoulder, and he sighs while he looks down.

Tyraz - What if...I disappeared for a while? Kryptkor - You mean, go in hiding? Tyraz - If Crispy proves the more popular option, I do not know where I would go. Kryptkor - But hiding away would only prove him right! Tyraz - Either I'm a diabolical leader or a coward. I'm in a very difficult position. Kryptkor - You need to do something to get more Zazane to like you...but what? Tyraz - A lot of the population dislike me already. I shouldn't have to campaign to win their favour. Kryptkor - Hm...I have no ideas.

Tyraz folds his arms and looks to the floor, a look of worry upon his face.

Tyraz - For now, more peace talks or waiting for Crispy to make an error. Kryptkor - Yes...Ugh, during that whole talk, all I wanted was to pierce a dagger through his face. Tyraz - That bad, huh? Kryptkor - Stupid smug, calm attitude gets on my nerves. Tyraz - I assume you don't want to see him again. Unfortunately, my bones tell me we will be seeing his face more often. Kryptkor - Unfortunately... Tyraz - Keep the details away from the other Council members, aside from Keldar and Sanron. Kryptkor - Understood.

Kryptkor turned and left the room, while Tyraz walked back over to his throne without saying a word. He sighed and slowly closed his eyes again, and went back into his deep sleep.

The Eye
Kharnes had his arms folded as he sat in the meeting room on board the Orochi. He stood patiently, waiting for his contact to arrive, while two guards stood at his sides. Kharnes was not a patient man, but the nature of his contact made him feel somewhat lucky to have even made contact, let alone meet in person. He sighed rather frustratingly.

Kharnes - When are they going to be here?

Suddenly, there was a clanking sound. Kharnes unfolded his arms and he looked around. From the opposite side of the room, a female Zazane walked in, holding a large sniper rifle. Kharnes couldn't help but feel somewhat excited as she entered the room, a scent filling his nostrils that made him feel somewhat aroused. However, he had his mind kept on the job at hand, and he placed his hands on the table.

Kharnes - What a pleasure to finally meet you. Kalcedia - Enough talk, I was old that Crispy would be here. Where is he? Kharnes - Something came up, he is under the arrest of the Tybusen. Kalcedia - Arrest? So this visit is a waste of time? Kharnes - Of course not! You will still get your money, I just need you to perform a little assignment lord Crispy wanted me to do. Kalcedia - And what is this 'assignemnt'? It had better not be anything dirty, I'm not that kinda girl. Sometimes.

Kharnes chuckled a little and looked her in the eye, a smile on his face as he observed the size of her rifle.

Kharnes - I need you to infiltrate Brood territory and spread the news that Crispy is under TIAF arrest on Tyraz's orders. Kalcedia - Hmph, that easy, huh? Kharnes - On the contrary, it needs to be spread throughout a majority of their territory. Digital viewing screens are the best way to perform this task, find a way to broadcast the information. Kalcedia - You have a disc or anything that I can use to make this job easier?

Kharnes walked up to her slowly and planted a palm-sized, flat, rectangular object with red markings covering its surface. As he handed her the device, Kharnes groaned a little as he was right up close, to where he could smell her permanent perfume at it's best. It made him blush a little, but he shook his head slightly to try and clear his senses of it.

Kharnes - Use this in main broadcasting station of the Brood. It should spread across viewing screens almost instantly, nearly everywhere. Kalcedia - I can't believe you are ussing me to run your little errand, boy. Kharnes - You are getting paid a lot of money to do this, I wouldn't complain.

Kalcedia grunted and lifted her rifle. Kharnes backed off, before he pulled out his own pistol and aimed at her. The two Zazane were in something of a stand-off, while Kharnes' guards also prepared their weapons to kill her. Kalcedia smiled, observing all three.

Kalcedia - I could kill all of you and take your money, how about that? Kharnes - You are doing this on behalf of Crispy, not on me! Kalcedia - Hmph, that's true. Fine, I will do Crispy's little assignment, but I want that money prepared for when I get back, you hear me? Kharnes - Of course, miss Kalcedia. A lot of payment for such an easy task. Kalcedia - Why do you want me to do it if it is so easy? Kharnes - You have shape-shifting capabilities from what I hear, it would be easier for you than for me. Kalcedia - Lazy Shyrak-eating scum. I don't want to get involved in your war, be aware of that. I'm only doing this for the money.

Kharnes nodded and looked away, snarling under his breath. Kalcedia walked over and placed a hand against his cheek, pulling his face back to hers.

Kalcedia - If you have that money prepared when I get back, I'll give you a reward, like the good little pet you are... Kharnes - Watch your tongue, woman. I am not so easily tempted.

Kalcedia grunted and shoved him away. She took up her rifle and placed it on her shoulder. Kharnes snarled again and placed away his gun, and his guards lowered their weapons. Kalcedia looked to him with an expression showing some disgust.

Kalcedia - Give me a week, it will be broadcasted.

With that, Kalcedia left the room, cloaking her body to become invisible as she did. Kharnes slammed his hand against the table, causing a dent, and roared angrily.

Kharnes - Bitch! I should have her head on a pike!

Kharnes angrily walked his way back to the navigation room, where he sat upon Crispy's former throne. He growled as he took his place and looked over a holographic map of the sector, showing available planets to try and spread the Golden Movement's influence, though Kharnes knew he would never succeed in attempting diplomacy due to his brash and violent behaviour that would only cause conflict. Kharnes was relying on Kalcedia to get the job done, otherwise the Insurrection is done for without Crispy's intelligence and knowledge of the enemy.

A Talk Amongst Allies
Keldar and Sanron talk amongst themselves in the meeting room of the Council, where it was somewhat dark as it approached night. It was surprisingly quiet, as they discuss about their pasts and likes, with Keldar mentioning somewhat questionable topics, while Sanron just read several pages of writing. Suddenly, Kryptkor walks into the room, a strange expression on his face.

Sanron - Hmm? Kryptkor, you look...agitated. What is wrong? Kryptkor - Uh, nothing. I'm just tired. Keldar - Something tells me otherwise. Since when is the great Kryptkor Talsar ever tired? Kryptkor - Hey, I'm not made of steel. As much as my scales are brighty and shiny. And meeting with that Crispy person would leave anyone agitated. Keldar - That reminds me, how did it go? What did he say? Kryptkor - The same "I'm better than Tyraz he's weak" stuff we've been hearing for a while. Sanron - Ugh, is that so? I don't see what is with this guy, Tyraz isn't the most perfect leader but he's definitely achieved much. Kryptkor - Yes. This Crispy guy's attitude makes me think he hides something really bad. Hiding your own name by itself is cowardly. Keldar - Oh Kryptkor, what would you do if you were in Tyraz's position? Kryptkor - Well I would think of doing things to improve my own popularity. And maybe send some mercenaries to deal with Crispy. Keldar - Now consider you're a Breek, a hated clan. Then imagine yourself to not be in control of this magnificent, yet destructive, power you have. I have faith in Tyraz, I always had, but I think he's gonna have a tough time increasing his image. Kryptkor - I think I could handle myself with some time and effort. The Talsar clan was not exactly liked in Borealis either. Keldar - Hehe, it's understandable. Sanron - Even if we did send mercenaries, it would go against our cultural values. We are not dirty players. Kryptkor - Maybe I'm getting my old ways get in my judgement. I wish I could help Tyraz with more than words...but currently I can't. Sanron - At least you are doing a better job than Savas. Kryptkor - Hmpf. Savas. That bonehead would throw all Zazane into their deaths. Sanron - Savas loves his people, but he loves the old way of the Empire. Indeed, if he had taken over, we may not still be around because Tyraz would not have lent his efforts. Kryptkor - Sure we are warriors, but he's way too bloodthirsty. Keldar - Says the man who desires mercenaries?

Keldar giggles a little and leans against a wall, folding her arms as she does.

Kryptkor - Hey, I'm a very capable soldier, for your information! Keldar - Hehe, a soldier, yes. Capable...? Kryptkor - Capable of much. I've killed many knights with my bare hands. survived harsh climates that would freeze you into an ice cube. Led legions into war and emerged victorious. Keldar - Impressive, but what use is that experience in times like this? We are trying to avoid conflict, the people are tired. Kryptkor - Yes...I guess you're right. Like I said, I wish I could help with more than words. Sanron - The best you can do for now is try keeping yourself alive. We have no idea what Crispy's plans are. Kryptkor - Heh, you think he would send assassins after me? Sanron - I think he would send assassins after all of us if he could. Kryptkor - Let them try to get me, I'll give them the dagger-to-the-face lesson.

Sanron chuckles and left the room, leaving only Kryptor and Keldar alone in the meeting room, while he closes the door behind him.

Keldar - I wish I could help as well, but Tyraz wants nothing of my legions as of yet. He seems like a very...puzzling man. Kryptkor - I have no idea what's passing through Tyraz's mind right now. But he can be sure I'll be on his side. Keldar - I will always have my faith in him. But then...who can I trust anymore? Ravir, Vecuarden, Savas, they all want Tyraz out. Kryptkor - Well you can trust me. We're on the same side here. Keldar - Yeah, I guess you're right. After all, who else is going to breath down my neck when they get lonely?

Keldar smirks with a look in his eye, while Kryptkor then chuckles nervously.

Keldar - Hehe, it wouldn't be Sanron, would it? Or Savas? Would you know? Kryptkor - Well I might know someone capable of such...

She chuckles, and reaches for his hand. But moments before she could, a holographic viewing screen popped up from a device on the table, showing footage of the Insurrection fighting against TIAF forces, as well as commentary in the background.

Commentator - It appears the TIAF has been sent here on orders from Tyraz Breek of the Brood of War to try and halt our demonstrations that the Zazane do not have to live under his rule. He sends his allies here to try and get himself out of trouble from his people, but how will they react once they learn he will go through-- Keldar - What? That's showing publicly! Kryptkor - What the...Tyraz didn't order this! Keldar - How the...this is bad, very bad! Kryptkor - What do we do now?

The two looked at each other with worried looks, before looking back to the viewing screen as they listened in on the commentary and the battle.

Commentator - ---And it is official, Crispy is now under the arrest of the TIAF, probably under Tyraz's orders to have him killed later on. Kryptkor - Woah... Keldar - ...I need to go. I need to find a way to stop this broadcast before the public turn this place into nothing but dust and shyrak. Kryptkor - Yes, do that. I'll see what I can do too.

Keldar rushes out of the room in panic while the broadcast plays in the room. Kryptkor sighs and he looks down, about to stand. All of a sudden, all the doors close and Kryptkor feels a strong, tense hand on his shoulder.

??? - Don't. Move. Kryptkor - Huh?

The mysterious figure then placed a Brood standard pistol against the back of Kryptkor's head, ready to be fired at any second if he so wished.

??? - You don't do anything that may compromise this campaign. If you do, I'll know, and I will have you killed. Kryptkor - Reveal yourself! ??? - I am afraid not, Kryptkor. That would compromise both me, and you. Kryptkor - Grrr... ??? - You keep your forces out of the way of the Insurrection, and you let what needs to be done, get done. You understand? Kryptkor - Hmpf. And I though this Insurrection was a peaceful movement! ??? - I am no part of the Insurrection, I am simply saying to stay out of it's way if you value your life. Kryptkor - Ughhh...fine. ??? - Good boy, Kryptkor.

The figure then slammed a long, sharp needle through Kryptkor's shoulder, injecting an orange liquid that felt somewhat hot, causing some pain to Kryptkor.

??? - In a few moments, you will forget everything that has happened within the last few minutes. All you will remember is that broadcast playing over and over. Kryptkor - Ghhrr...You'll pay for this... ??? - Sure I will, Kryptkor, sure I will...

The figure slipped away into the darkness, allowing Kryptkor room to move around, though he feels drowzy as the injection takes effect, and he can hardly stand as he begins to feel exhausted.

Kryptkor - I'm gonna get ya...and stick your face...into my dagger!...and stuff.

The injection takes hold and Kryptkor falls under, while the broadcast plays over and over in the room, filling his ears as there were no other sounds to distract him as he slept.

Strange Memories
Kalcedia smiled as she left the broadcast room, and morphing out of her disguise of a young Zazane male. She began to run as people watched the viewing screens in shock and disbelief, though she could tell there was anger rising from the Zazane crowd around her, who didn't take notice of her, though she attracted a few eyes from her arousing scent and her rather outstanding appearance. However, it was natural, and they soon returned to watching the holo-screens. Kalcedia blinked as she ran out, and a flashback began to play in her mind.

??? - You look amazing.

A younger Kalcedia turned her head, and saw him there. A young Zazane boy, around her age at the time. Both teenagers, none knew the other. Kalcedia smiled at the boy as he walked over, a little scarred from a recent fight. The boy smiled and stood by her, folding his arms and watching the sea.

Kalcedia - You don't look to bad yourself...

Kalcedia rubbed a hand over the boy's crest, giggling a little as the boy turned his head to hide his blush. His crest had sustained a scar along the side of it, most probably from an attack with a knife. This was usual for Zazane of his age, to fight with sharp weapons, designed to kill.

Boy - Hey! My scars are my own to touch! Kalcedia - Oh, sorry! I kinda like them, they suit you. Boy - Knock it off! Kalcedia - Make me!

Kalcedia giggled and began to run across the beach, with the teenage boy hot on her trail, while they both began to laugh. The sun beamed its rays down onto the land, making it seem beautiful, as strange-looking fish leaped from the ocean to catch the flying bird-like creatures above. Kalcedia looked back at the boy and caught a glimpse of his face, he was smirking. She could also make out his red eyes as they glowed a little. This was due to a condition called Turdaiko, which meant that Zazane with this condition could only see in black, white and shades of grey, as well as turning the eyeballs red when excited. It was a genetic condition, it could not be helped. Kalcedia laughed as they both ran, though soon she could feel the boy leap onto her back, pushing her front onto the sand, and holding a hand on her crest.

Boy - Got you!

Kalcedia grunted in an annoyed tone as she looked up to the boy, before tilting her head and smiling.

Kalcedia - You got lucky! Don't take this seriously, it was only a game!

They both began to laugh again, with the boy standing and getting off her, allowing Kalcedia herself to stand. She brushed the sand off herself and she drew a sharp dagger. The boy gasped excitedly as he also drew his dagger. This was not a threat of death, even though there would probably be scarring involved. The boy laughed as he ran at Kalcedia, and she leaped at him, both with daggers in hand, ready to cut. However, they both smiled as they got to the point close enough to attack, and...

Kalcedia returned to reality, she had stopped running. She was a little freaked out by the sudden flashback, but shook her head several times, trying to remember what her objective was. Then she remembered; get out of this place. She nodded but staggered a little, imagining the boy's red eyes in her head.

Kalcedia - What...?

She grunted and leaped again, getting into her ship. As she prepared it to take off, she thought over her flashback. It was like something of a dream. She had always wondered why she had accepted to help the Insurrection in the first place, scum like Crispy would make her sick. She couldn't deal with insurrectionists or revolutionists, the thought of betrayal had always sickened her. Though, she needed to be sure. She loved her comrades, she had told them that she would need a few days to herself in order to do this mission. Yet, looking back, why did she ever say she was a mercenary? She didn't hunt or kill for money, she simply enjoyed the thrill of killing. However, she couldn't tell Kharnes that she was from UNO's special unit, she needed a way to make herself seem important enough to be worth the Insurrection's time. She wasn't on either side, she was doing this for her own reason; she needed to be sure this Crispy really was the scum Tyraz claimed him to be.

What really freaked her out though was the flashback. She recalled spending her life inside of a tube, in a liquid-solid shapeless form, watched over by the tyrant Kol Daren. She never had a life outside of this, aside from her time in UNOC, where she met the family she would call her "siblings". So why was she dreaming about time as a teenager? And who was this boy? She couldn't focus on it at the moment, she needed to get the hell off this planet before everything erupts into one big riot. She knew she'd probably recieve a punishment for taking time away from the unit, though in the end, it may be worth it.

Aggression Amongst Friends
There was a sound of uproar as holographic viewing screens across the Brood displayed the video and commentary of the Insurrection-TIAF encounter. The citizens of Daedalus took up their arms and began to roar loudly as they began to fight amongst the military guardians of the Council Palace, the meeting place of the Brood Council, and also Tyraz's residence. Keldar Taran ran into Tyraz's throne room, awakening him from his sleep. Tyraz's eyes burst open and he growled a little.

Tyraz - Keldar? What is the meaning of this? Keldar - Tyraz, the people are angry! They are calling your name and they want your blood! Tyraz - You have just noticed? Keldar - No, I meant the people outside! They are taking up their weapons and they are fighting your guards! Tyraz - W-What...? What has provoked my people to-- Keldar - Tyraz, come to the meeting room! There is something you must see!

Tyraz nodded and stood, rushing over to Keldar as they both hurried towards the meeting room of the Council, where Kryptkor had just awoken from his own sleep. Tyraz looked over Kryptkor with a strange look in his eye, confused as to what Kryptkor was still doing here on his own.

Tyraz - Kryptkor, are you alright? What are you doing here? Kryptkor - Ugghh...I...can't remember... Keldar - Did you fall asleep or something? Is that what you usually do in a panic, to calm down? Kryptkor - ...What are you talking about? Keldar - The broadcast, Kryptkor! The one that you saw a few minutes ago!

Kryptkor grunts and holds his head, a massive headache bouncing around inside his crest as he bared his teeth in agitation.

Kryptkor - Ugh...Yes I've seen that. It's hard to forget. Tyraz - Kryptkor, what is this about a broadcast? What has happened?

Kryptkor looks at Tyraz and shakes his head, baring his teeth more with a slight, intimidating growl.

Kryptkor - You, keep away from me. If you want to see it then do it yourself. Tyraz - Huh...w-what? Kryptkor - My head hurts and I don't need you making it worse. Tyraz - Ohh...I apologize, Kryptkor.

Keldar gives Kryptkor a fierce glare, and she turned entirely towards him.

Keldar - What has gotten into you?

Kryptkor sits down on a chair, while looking at Tyraz with his eyes narrowed, and remaining only silent aside from his growl, which passed through his sharp teeth that looked as if he was ready to rip somebody in half. Tyraz looks away from Kryptkor with a sad expression and looks at the viewing screen, his eyes widen when he hears the commentary and sees the battle between the TIAF and the Insurrection.

Tyraz - W-Whaat...? Keldar - Kryptkor, surely you don't believe the broadcast do you? Kryptkor - ...I find it suspicious. Tyraz - Are you saying I had the TIAF arrest Crispy? Kryptkor - How can I know you hadn't?

A look of disappointment over comes Tyraz's face, he turns his head away from both Keldar and Kryptkor.

Keldar - Kryptkor!

Keldar sighs, trying to clear her head of frustration.

Keldar - We can't be sure but I am almost certain Tyraz had nothing to do with this. Kryptkor - Well I'm waiting for his answer. Tyraz - The TIAF are indeed allies of the Brood, but I swear, I wouldn't launch a move that would anger my people. Kryptkor - My head really hurts right now, and in the middle of this pain, your words aren't making much effect. Tyraz - Kryptkor, why would I do this?! Kryptkor - Because you aren't strong enough to confront Crispy yourself?

Keldar slammed her hands against the table, growling aggressively at them both while her eyes flared.

Keldar - Alright, that's enough! We have hundreds, possibly thousands, of angry people out there! Kryptkor - And how do you plan on dealing with that? By running away and hiding? Tyraz - It seems I have no choice but to confront them! Kryptkor - Go on then. Tyraz - Hmph. I don't need to be told by some pirate what to do.

Kryptkor mutters to himself, giving an angry eye to Tyraz.

Kryptkor - At least this pirate knows how to rule.

Tyraz glares at Kryptkor before he walks out of the room. Keldar looks over at Kryptkor and growls, in both a saddened and angry way.

Keldar - What are you saying, Kryptkor? Kryptkor - I have nothing to say to you.

Keldar growls and walks out of the room, behind Tyraz, as the doors to the meeting room closed. Tyraz, filled with anger, approached his broadcast room to deliver a speech to his people, while Keldar followed close behind him. She was disappointed in Kryptkor, though she did begin to feel as if Tyraz was hiding something, though why would he? She could only hope Kryptkor was wrong. Tyraz reached the broadcast room and sat down in a seat, beginning his transmission.

Tyraz - This is Emperor Tyraz Breek of the Brood of War. I am aware that you have all witnessed a broadcast detailing the arrest of the Golden Movement leader, Crispy, by the Tybusen Intergalactic Allied Federation, under my orders. I will assure you now; despite the TIAF being our allies, I have issued no such order. Whoever has shown this broadcast is displaying false information, I shall engage in talks with the Tybusen in the meanwhile. It is your choice as to whether or not you wish to believe me, I shall not force the truth upon you more than once.

Tyraz then stopped broadcasting and sighed as he walked out of the room, budging past Keldar. Keldar was about to speak, but Tyraz lifted a hand to halt her. He sighed once more and turned away, walking back to his throne room. As he walked, he felt an overwhelming sadness come over him. His people did not trust him, only his closest friends would truly trust him now, though from Kryptkor's display of aggression, Tyraz wasn't even sure he could rely on anybody anymore. When suddenly, his communicator began to go off...

Best of Brothers, Worst of Wars
Tyraz activated his communicator and a feeling of surprise overcame him when he heard Uriel's voice.

Uriel - ''Tyraz, It's uriel. Can you meet me at the following coordinates?'' Tyraz - ''Huh? Of course Uriel, whatever is the matter?'' Uriel - ''An old friend of mine contacted me, and... Well I would rather tell you in person.'' Tyraz - ''Hmm? An old friend? Alright, I'll be straight there.''

There was a sense of worry in Uriel's voice. Not hesitating to see one of his friends again, Tyraz discreetly left the palace by turning into a cloud and telported to a shuttle bay without anyone noticing. The co-ordinates he had been given were at the very edge of the system and it did not take long for his shuttle to arrive at its destination. Before his eyes, an elegantly-built vessel, trimmed with gold engravings adorning the side decloaked into view. This was Uriel's personal cruiser and Tyraz was impressed upon seeing it. Uriel appeared on communications.

Tyraz - Ah, it seems Uriel has something important to tell me if he brought such a fine ship. Uriel - ''Tyraz, I apologise for the secrety. It came to my attention how your people don't exactly approve of your relations with aliens.'' Tyraz - Yes, indeed my people have some...opinions against myself concerning aliens. Uriel - ''I have some private apartments aboard where we can talk. Do you need help finding them?'' Tyraz - ''I think I shall be fine, Uriel. What is bothering you so much?'' Uriel - What I was told was related to *sighs* you.

Tyraz's eyes widened at the news.

Tyraz - ...W-What? Uriel - I will explain mmore when you arrive.

Tyraz closed his eyes and sighs. Once his shuttle close to Uriel's he teleports on board. Sensing wehre Uriel was he telported into the front room of a luxurious apartment. Something fitting for Uriel's status. Uriel was sitting in a chair, holding a datapad showing the riots on Daedelus. When Tyraz entered, Uriel turned the device off, looked up and turned around to greet the Zazane with a pained smile. He looked to Uriel with a somewhat sad expression upon his face and looked to his side.

Uriel - ''Tyraz. Do you remember house Valocanus.'' Tyraz - ''It is not like me to forget things, Uriel. You know that.'' Uriel - ''I am aware. their family head, Taremanon Valaocanus contacted me. he was the... uncle of Tervos Valocanus.'' Tyraz - Oh, the scumbag who betrayed the Imperium in favour of his own skin? Uriel - Yes. Tyraz - What of his uncle? Uriel - ''Taremanon wanted to inform me of your involvement with the Holy Shadow War a decade back, and how it was Kezoreg who started the entire thing off. I am sceptical though, the boy may have his rough sides but I did not think universal genocide was in him.''

Tyraz gasped a little and took a step back. He had kept Kezoreg's involvement in the war a secret for all these years, for Uriel to hear it from one of his friends was a disasterous thought. After regaining composure looked at Uriel with a serious look in his eye.

Tyraz - Where did he get this information? Uriel - ''He claims of some anonnymous source, which is why I am sceptical. it is not liek Taremanon to knowingly pass on falseified information, we've been friends for years.''

Tyraz sighed and walked over to Uriel, who turned around to stand in front of Tyraz.

Tyraz - ''I am afraid Uriel...the information is not falsefied. My son...had some involvement.''

Uriel lowered his head, he was suddenly overcome with bad memories.

Uriel - ''Was it true what Taremanon told me? That simply by being born Kexoreg ressurected your vrother and condemned trillions to die?'' Tyraz - The Universe is a cruel place, Uriel, and you don't know how much it pains me. Uriel - ''Tyraz... Septis hatched a few months later, I had to shoot the remains of my own half-decayed brother to protect my family!'' Tyraz - It was not my fault! Uriel - Your borther hated you, Korr and I we were...close.

Tyraz turned his back on uriel, he felt ashamed at what had happened and Uriel's reminders were not helping.

Tyraz - ''Uriel, you think I do not feel guilt for what happened? For having my own son bring about a close armageddon? For having my own brother damage you like this? You wondered why I sought redemption.'' Uriel - ''You... you never saw what those insects did to his body.'' Tyraz - ''How would I have known? I was too busy protecting the people who hate me.'' Uriel - ''Tyraz I'm sorry. His death was long before you were born. I'm sorry I brought this up. I suppose I neverimagined Taremanon being capable of this.''

Uriel turned around and Tyraz raised his hand at him.

Tyraz - ''No. Do not apologize. I should have told you sooner.'' Uriel - ''I realise your life is full of regrets. You see yourself as a monster but do you know why I continue to try and 'befriend the monster'?'' Tyraz - ''Uriel. I believe it was I who came to you.'' Uriel - *shrugs* Hm, I could have turned you away but I didn't. Tyraz - How much has Taremanon told you? Uriel - Just the Holy Shadow War, he tried to convince me to give up on you as well.

Tyraz turned his head in interest, his back was still to Uriel.

Tyraz - Do you believe him? Uriel - ''No. I persevere because I know there is a good man inside. Plus, like it or not you did save my life.'' Tyraz - But you are troubled... Uriel - I wonder if it is a losing battle sometimes.

Tyraz straightened his head and he stayed silent.

Uriel - Tyraz... Tyraz - ''You have every right, Uriel. We all have our flaws. I...just have more than others.'' Uriel - Sometimes I keep forgetting the past is i nthe past, that is all. Tyraz - ''Uriel, I want you to tell Taremanon that his source was correct. I was wrong to keep it a secret between us.'' Uriel - ''Any ideas what this source might have been? There was news of some zazane who visited the government building of his sector soem days ago.''

Tyraz looked to Uriel and bared his teeth.

Tyraz - ...Damned traitor. Uriel - Excuse me? Tyraz - ''Oh. Not you. I just...can't remember his name right now.'' Uriel - But you do know who it might be? Tyraz - ''Yes...A self-proclaimed enemy of mine. He doesn't bring violence but he somehow knows much about me...'' Uriel - Is there anything that I can do to help? Tyraz - ''No. I do not need interferance. It would probably be a bad political move if Taremanon has made this news public.'' Uriel - Hmm, I can contact the RIA, if you can provide a description the Imperium can alsways see if it can keep tabs on him. Tyraz - ''We shall see, Uriel. It is likely the news has already spread, an act to spite against me by Valocanus. Or at least, I assume.'' Uriel - ''Know your enemy, Tyraz. The Imperium's spies are good, and their superiors are elusive. I can always have them forward information to you.'' Tyraz - Is it a legal action? Uriel - You are an ally of the Imperium, therefore the RIA is wiling to disclose certain pieces of sensetive information. Tyraz - Yes...an ally. Uriel - ''Besides, what is a political rivalry without a litle espionage? This fellow knows you so it stands to reason you need to know about him.'' Tyraz - ''Fair enough. Do as you would like Uriel, but if your spies are caught I am sure it would not look good politically for you.'' Uriel - I am willing to take that risk. Tyraz - And what if your people know of...the truth behind the Holy Shadow War, and your relations to me?

Uriel stood up from his chair and walked around Tyraz to look at him. He lowered his head and sighed.

Uriel - ''Sometimes a man must take risks to protect the people he cares about. I may be hated for this but I have connections within the Grand Senate. I only hope it is enough.'' Tyraz - And what if it isn't? Uriel - ''Perhaps... one of my offspring could take over. That or Alensia takes my place.'' Tyraz - ''You think your people would settle for that? It was my fault that the Khaxvis became the threat they were, it was my fault Volkarus almost killed you. And...the Holy Shadow War...''

Uriel turned away and slupmed in a chair. He looked straight at Tyraz, who now turned ot talk directly with his friend.

Uriel - I wish I could predict the full consequences...'' Tyraz - If things come to worst, Uriel...I want you to deny everything. I couldn't live with myself if you were deposed because of myself.'' Uriel - I have always been an adventurer at heart, Tyraz. If I am deposed, well there is an entire gigaquadrant to discover.'' Tyraz - I guess so...But what of the rest of your house?'' Uriel - Some of those closer to me may be looked at with suspicion of favouritism towards you, but I have a large house.'' Tyraz - I cannot believe somebody would go so low...as to make the truth behind the Holy Shadow War public.'' Uriel - The nobles of the Imperium play a dark and dangerous game, Tyraz. However it all seems benefit the Imperium as a whole.'' Tyraz - Whoever this person is...he poses a very dangerous threat to me.'' Uriel - Indeed.'' Tyraz - Uriel...I must depart.'' Uriel - It was good seeing you again.'' Tyraz - Why is it I find that hard to believe?'' Uriel - Are you doubting me? While delivering the knews was painful, hearing it from your perspective relieved something of a burden. I forgot to mentino that one of the things Taremanon said to enourage me to his side was that you... would not quarrel with commiting another atrocity. He does nto know you like I do.'' Tyraz - You are correct, I would rather not carry anymore weight upon my shoulders. But then again...I do not even know myself anymore...''

Uriel walked over to TYraz and rested his hand on his shoulder with a calm smile.

Uriel - ''Do not say things like that. You have told me that the person you were in those days was nothing like you are now.''

Tyraz turned and began to walk away to walk away. He gave one last lok at Uriel and smiled back.

Tyraz - It has been good seeing you again, my friend. Uriel - Safe journeys to you.

TYraz returned to his shuttle and set a course back to Daedelus. As he left the ship's vicinity, Uriel's crusier turned and engaged its hyperdrive to return to the Imperium. Uriel sat in his apartment for the remainer of the journey, wondering waht he would do if the effects of the insurrection were to spread to the Imperium. A thought crept into his mind; what would he do if the Grand Senate turned on him? Tyraz meanwhile returned to his throne room without anyone noticing he was gone.

Teemygo
The Caigiancia descends into Teemygo's thick atmosphere, the windows in the prison cell begin to fog up. Teemygo was an incredibly inhospitable planet, constantly battered by blizzards and snowstorms, with only the most dangerous of fauna being able to survive in these conditions, a perfect place to base a prison in the eyes of the TIAF. Crispy keeps his eyes closed, sat with his legs folded on the floor of the temporary cell he was in on board the ship. Captain Braxton was in the command room, on his comms.

Braxton - USS Caigiancia to Teemygo Cold Storage Prison Complex, we have cargo on board. Prepare for our arrival.

He then turns to the others in the command room.

Braxton - Thank Spode, we won't have to deal with this Crispy guy anymore.

A guard turns to Crispy and chuckles.

Guard - You hear that buddy? You get to get off this ship now.

Crispy eyes remain closed as he calmly speaks.

Crispy - Where are we? Guard - Teemygo, mostly a frozen popsicle planet where we keep people like you. Crispy - What's going to happen to me? Guard - The Federation decides that. But for now, have fun freezing your ass off. Crispy - So...I'm a criminal destined to freeze to death because I want what is best for my people?

Braxton walks into the room and looks at Crispy with a smirk.

Braxton - No, you are destined to freeze to death because you seek to cause political instability within the Brood of War. Officer, cuff him, make sure he can't try to escape; not like there's anywhere to go on the damn rock.

He laughs and walked closer.

Crispy - Hmph, and what concern is it of yours? The Federation does this for Tyraz's benefit?

The guard activates the zero-point field and enters the cell, putting zero-point handcuffs around Crispy's wrists.

Braxton - We align ourselves with the continued stability of post-war Andromeda, and if that means aligning with Tyraz, then yes. Crispy - And what if Tyraz ends up bringing the Brood into ruin? The poeple do not agree with his rule. Braxton - Tell me, then, boy, how do you think Tyraz will drive the Brood into ruin when he has shown he is fully capable of leading his people in times of crisis and peace? Crispy - He may have saved Andromeda on multiple occasions...but there are reasons people are rebelling against him. Braxton - Yeah? Well, go figure, people aren't always happy. I don't want to hear any more of your shit, boy. Move.

The pokes Crispy in the back with a gun to get him to start moving. Crispy growls a little and his eyes turn a little red as he gets agitated.

Braxton - What's wrong, boy? Can't take a little bit of logic?

He leads them into the docking bay, where the temperature is much colder due to Teemygo's environment.

Crispy - No, your ignorance annoys me. Braxton - Lighten up, boy. Maybe a few days in prison will set your mind straight.

Braxton then leads Crispy out of the Caigiancia and out to the prison landing spot, where it is heavily snowing.

Crispy - Hmph. I can understand you're doing your job, but would you like working for somebody who had demonic powers who can't control themselves? Braxton - There are probably worse employers.

He chuckles a little.

Crispy - Hmph, still a pretty bad emperor, especially if he's representing your empire. Braxton - Antediluvian, enough said. But anyways, welcome to Teemygo. Be careful you don't get frostbite, haha. Crispy - Hmph. Tyraz is nothing like Antediluvian. For starters, Antediluvian is liked. What you are doing now is disrupting the balance within the Brood. Braxton - There was stability until you came along. I'd say we're doing a favor by preventing political chaos, no? Crispy - Stability? Are you aware that there has been a severe increase in rebellions, not only against the Brood but in other alien empires, because of him? Braxton - No doubt instigated by you.

The two enter the prison complex, keeping many scum, most frozen but some others looking aggressively at Crispy.

Crispy - How does that work if I only made a significant appearance recently? Ever heard of the Khaxvis? Or the Holy Shadow War? Braxton - What, you're blaming Tyraz for that? Khaxvis I can understand, but the Holy Shadow War was beyond his control. We fought in that war, mind you. Crispy - You do not know the real reasons behind the war? Braxton - I quite honestly don't care to know. But go ahead, you won't change my mind. Crispy - Tyraz's child, Kezoreg. Upon his birth, Tyraz's brother, Moxix, arose from the grave with an agenda of revenge and annihilation against the living. Tyraz's son is cursed, who's fault do you think that is? Braxton - Tyraz wouldn't curse his own son, if that's what you're implying. Crispy - Some people don't intend to kill others, but it still happens. Braxton - I would agree with you on that.

They come out to a row of elevated cells out in the open blizzard, they stop in front of one of the cells, filled with snow.

Braxton - Say hello to your new home for the next few days.

There is no ceiling in the cell, leaving snow to drop in.

Braxton - See, it's even got a sun roof, haha. Crispy - Huh, I think I'll be happy out here. Braxton - Yep, free popsicles and all, if you know what I mean.

He laughs and looks as he sees to guards approach.

Braxton - Okay, buddy, get in.

The two TIAF snow troopers arrive to guard the cell.

Crispy - You're a funny guy, you know. Ignorant, stubborn, but funny.

He smiles a little before stepping away towards his cell. Braxton grumbles a little before typing a pass code into the side of the cell that closes it and activates energy grates.

Braxton - You're a funny guy too, you know. An asshat, dick biscuit, but a funny guy too.

He is about to walk away, chuckling to himself. However, Crispy lifts his head up to look to Braxton.

Crispy - Before you go...

Braxton turns around.

Braxton - What is it now, boy? Crispy - Do you want to hear a joke?

Braxton raises an eyebrow but then smiles, walking back over.

Braxton - Go ahead, boy. Crispy - Knock knock. Braxton - Who's there? Crispy - Nobody, put your hand against that gate and it'll be cauterized before you can even say "shit".

Braxton narrows his eyes and glares at Crispy.

Braxton - Funny guy, huh?

He starts walking away again, at first unamused by Crispy's behaviour before then starting to smile, chuckling a little. Crispy chuckles and sits on the floor, closing his eyes as they slowly turn red, while the heavy snow falls into his cell, though he wasn't bothered by the cold weather.

Sincere Apologies
A transmission from the Brood of War was being patched through towards TIAF territory in Andromeda, demanding the highest authority. The message was sent directly to Ambassador Lorrelas, sister of the famous Captain Lorrelas. She was the highest TIAF authority within Andromeda at this moment in time. She receives the transmission and raises an eyebrow.

Ambassador Lorrelas - The Brood? What business does the Brood have with us?

She accepts the transmission request and she sees Tyraz sitting in his comms room.

Lorrelas - Greetings, Brood representative, state your identity. Tyraz - This is Emperor Tyraz Breek of the Brood of War. Lorrelas - Ah, hello, Tyraz. How have you been lately? Tyraz - Eh, I have seen better days. Life as emperor really puts a strain on your social life. Lorrelas - Well, such is the life of a ruler, I suppose. What brings you to my communication panel today? Tyraz - I need a word with you regarding your recent actions taken against the Golden Movement. Lorrelas - Oh yes, Admiral Tzena's task to extract Crispy. What did you wish to discuss about it? Tyraz - Why did your forces interfere? Lorrelas - It was not on my order that it was carried out - I'm an ambassador, not a politician - the Grand Assembly decided that, in the interest of political stability of post-war Andromeda, Crispy's movement needed to be neutralized. Tyraz - In that case, pass onto the Grand Assembly the message that my people believe it was on my orders your federation is involved. And they are demanding my blood because they believe I have taken away their right of speech! Lorrelas - The Assembly had no intention of that happening, if that is what you are implying. Tyraz - My people will not listen to me. They probably won't listen to your federation, either. Lorrelas - Well, then, I will pass on this information to the Assembly, though if it is as serious as you make it out to be, I'm sure they have already caught wind of it. Tyraz - You are aware that the Brood was shaky enough as it is, and was trying to avoid conflict with the Insurrection? Lorrelas - I think the Assembly's logic was that if we took the keystone out of this Insurrection - Crispy, that is - the Insurrection would fall. But I think Crispy must have planned in advance for something like this. Tyraz - This is why I must demand Crispy's release. Lorrelas - I will have to ask the Assembly to approve that measure. But if they don't, I can tell you where the Federation is holding Crispy so that you may retrieve him yourself if it comes to that. Tyraz - Hmph. Believe me, I have been thinking of retrieving him several times. My people wish my head on a poll for this! Lorrelas - We only desired to keep the political equilibrium in the Brood, though I see now that we may have only worsened it. Tyraz - I respect aliens, I respect a great many empires too. But this...is almost unforgiveable!

Tyraz slammed his fist against the table and he snarled aggresively, before beginning to calm down and look back at the comms screen.

Lorrelas - You have our most sincere apologies then, Tyraz. We did not mean to make this much more of a problem for you. I'm sure you're probably aware that the Assembly sort of has a problem about asking about intervention before actually interve--

He interrupts her part way through her sentence.

Tyraz - Who was the Admiral that took action? Lorrelas - Admiral Alexa Tzena, I believe. She is the main military authority in Andromeda now, if I am correct. Why? Tyraz - Tzena... Lorrelas - Do you have a history with her or something? Tyraz - It is not important. Lorrelas - Well then, the Federation will get to work on limiting the damage of this immediately. Would you prefer if we handed custody of Crispy back to his own Insurrection or to the Brood? Tyraz - The Insurrection would surely welcome his presence. But...I have need of him in the Brood. Lorrelas - I will see to it then that Crispy will be delivered to Brood space then. Tyraz - I'd rather collect him myself. I don't trust your actions.

Lorrelas has an offended look upon her face and she grunts a little.

Lorrelas - Well, then, Crispy is being held in Teemygo here in Andromeda Province. As soon as the Assembly approves the measure you may retrieve him, or if not I can organize an "accident" for you to retrieve him. Tyraz - Do as you so wish. Either way, he shall not die under the Federation's orders. Lorrelas - The Federation never intended to kill him, unless it became necessary to do so in the best interests of your Brood. Tyraz - Your Federation better keep out of the Brood's business in future. Lorrelas - We will ask in the future, I assure you. I hope the Assembly learns from this, since going behind your back to do this was already wrong in the first place. Tyraz - You must have some pretty twisted leaders in your Federation! Then again...who am I to talk... Lorrelas - Do not get so down on yourself. You are only one man. These politicians in the Assembly... always bickering, and when they finally agree on something it is not always the wise thing... It is no easier for one man to rule a nation than for hundreds of bureaucrats to run it either. Tyraz - Thanks...I appreciate the kind words. But words shall not save me. Lorrelas - Words can have greater power than even lasers and bombs. How do you think Crispy managed to get so far? Tyraz - You have a point. But my words...People believe me tainted, they wouldn't be wrong. Lorrelas - I definitely believe you are a righteous leader. Though sometimes, perhaps, cooperation is a better solution than resistance. Tyraz - I am consdiering co-operating with Crispy, he seems to have interest in what the people want. But he also seems to hate my guts. Lorrelas - If he is truly working for the best interest of the Zazane people, then he would also know that cooperating with the current leader - you - is a necessary course of action. Tyraz - Not many people would trust a Descended Zazane who is part of a cursed and violent bloodline, would they? Lorrelas - You've gained the trust of the Draconis, Radeon, and us; I'd say with the right approach you can regain the trust of your people. Tyraz - That's the thing. My people aren't too fond of my...close relations with aliens. Lorrelas - Relations with aliens are not a bad thing, I'm sure we can both agree on that, but if it's ingrained into your people's culture like that, you would have to find a way to ingrain it into their minds that aliens are not bad. After all, Andromeda and the Brood could have been destroyed without the assistance of aliens. Tyraz - My people respect aliens, but not to the extent I do. They believe me an...abomination or a pervert. Lorrelas - One thing I have learned from politics is that if you can't appear to be a role model for your people, then appear to be someone who can lead them through the hard times. If you can fix up some of the things in the Brood and satisfy your people, then you do not necessarily have to be the kind of person your people glorify. Tyraz - I saved Andromeda from total annihilation, I have left my mark. But my people care only for NOW. Lorrelas - Then work to solve the solutions of now. Continue building off the mark you made, keep working for now, and your people will respect you now and in the future. Tyraz - Thank you, miss Lorrelas. I appreciate your words. Lorrelas - You are quite welcome, Tyraz. Good luck to you and your people.

The comms were closed. Tyraz sighed as he stood straight and walked out of the room. He could still hear the angered cries of his people outside, his tainted heart beginning to sink into the deepest regions of his spirit in a pool of guilt and sadness. He never meant for this to happen, though he knew he couldn't control himself fully at the moment. Perhaps...he was just as bad as when Moxix was in power?

Uproar among the Priveliged
It was early evening in Minos"Drakon. Eberion Ultanos, one of Uriel's half-brothers, entered the hall of the Grand Senate. He passed a group of four nobles from the outlying territories; two from House Croummis of Balas-4, one from House Serellum of Mathist-13 and one from House Sapenis. Each of them looked curiously at Eberion as he headed to observe a meeting of the hall of Praetors. The praetors of the imperium did not always meet in such a fashion, often preferring to meet in more secluded locations, often to conspire agianst one-another. He passed a pair of Blod Dragons guarding a blacony int othe hall and sat in a chair lined with fine tapestries. Down below he could see Taremanon Valocanus making some empassioned speech.

As he settled down slave entered the balcony walked up to him with a weak smile. Eberion looked ot her to see she was holding a tray with a single glass of green liquid.

Slave - W-would my lord like a drink? Eberion - ''I suppose so. Much apprecated.''

Eberion took the glass in his hand and the slave bowed before walking out of the balcony. He relaxed in the chair to listen. His expression turned to one of concern when Taremanon mentioned Tyraz's name. A grunt from Eberion was relatively unnoticed.

Taremanon - --Tyraz Breek, men and women of the hall, would have been better off not ever getting himself involved in Imperial politics! Praetor Soruda - And where, pray tell, did you get this information? Taremanon - ''I have my sources, lady Soruda. The Holy Shadow War, the Khaxvis attack on Alcanti, the ambush on Uriel's son Paronus; above all he is reponsible for tripling the threat level of the Resurgence. All because he decided ot get involved!''

One of the praetors stood up sharply, his features were pulled back in anger.

Praetor Druuvas - ''Kranndung! All of it!'' Taremanon - You would agree, after all didn't house Aralan help several Khaxvis turncoats find asylum? Soruda - Taremanon, what you are frogettinf is that Tyraz was partially involved in ending the Volkarus threat. Taremanon - ''At what cost, Soruda? Two-thirds of the fleet were lost and every kidnapped slave and inquisitor they had was either devourered by the monster or killed when the ships were destroyed.'' Eberion - Not every Inquisitor, praetor.

Everyione looked up in surprise to Eberion's balcony.

Taremanon - My lord Eberion, I was unaware you would be observing our meeting today. Eberion - ''Sorry for my interruption. What is this meeting about?'' Taremanon - It does not concern you, one of my relatives got into a spat with a few Zazane. Eberion - ''Praetor, you're not a very good liar are you? I have been listening to the debate for the past few minutes.''

Eberion smirked as several nobles looked at each other and whispered amongst themselves.

Taremanon - It does not conccern you, I am aware that you and Uriel do not see much eye-to-eye. Eberion - You're dragging URIEL'' Into this? When only a few days ago he told me you tried to convince him to turn his back on the Lord-Councillor, and not days before that a quote-unquote 'traitor' was seen entering and leaving the government building you work in, while security footage shows he was seen in your lobby. What kind of axah-grade udulov shit are you trying to pull!?'' Taremanon - ''Hm, now who is pointing fingers? Do you people see, Tyraz has not only the paragon, but the entire royal family wrapped around his finger! And I say it is time a new paragon. Perhaps eve nan entirely new line.''

Eberion stood up and placed his half-empty glass on the balcony ledge. His wings opened out a little.

Eberion - Taremanon, choose your words carefully because I swear to Drakon that your efforts will end up with your neck in a noose! Taremanon - ''Death-threats now? Or is Tyraz going to ues house Ultanos to say he can kill me the way he killed my nephew Tervos.'' Soruda - ''Taremanon, for the love of Drakon shut up about Tervos. Your constant whining over his death won't solve anything. You have been told time-and-again, the coyrts ruled that Tervos had aboandoned the Imperium for the Tybusen Federation, he was given the choiceof becoming houseless or death and he chose death.'' Taremanon - Am I the only one who can see that the whole trial was a farce?

A few of the nobles looked at each other and there were at least 10 who stood up. Eberion opened his wings more and began to panic. Taremanon saw this and smirked.

Taremanon - ''What is the matter my lord? Afraid that your shepard is losing his grip on us?'' Eberion - ''Taremanon, you and Uriel were close. Why do this?'' Taremanon - Because he chose Tyraz's word over mine.

This caused the hall to chant in uproar. Another praetor clared his throat.

Praetor Teressos - Taremanon, how exactly was the blight that occured over a decade ago Tyraz's fault? Taremanon - Because, dear praetor, that demon provided the seed that caused his so-called wife to shit out the little abomination that was the catalyst for the whole thing. Eberion - ''Lies Taremanon, Uriel told me about Kezoreg and gave him reasonable praise. How is he responsible for the plague?'' Taremanon - ''Even the most innocent of young can harbour the most foul of demons, 'my lord'. The whole crisis could have been averted if he had not decided to mate with whatever harlot creature he did so on. He is a threat to the Imperium and we must respond. I say we cast the scum aside and let the insurrection play its course.''

More praetors joined the uproar and Eberion sat down in horror.

Eberion - I see the nose forming around your neck, if you are declaring this action against the wishes of the paragon then the chancellor must have a say. Taremanon - ''We all know the Chancellor would agree with me, so you may as well tell Uriel he is better-off crying to Tyraz or hiding in the palace. The praetors have spoken.''

Eberion stood up in disgust and before he left the chamber he muttered to Taremanon.

Eberion - What in the void's name happened to you?

He left the senate buidling in a huff. He passed more nobles who looked at him with concern, and hoped that the chancellor could stop the madness before it spread throughout the Imperium. When he reached outside he was escorted by a pair of blood dragons and headed to a small park area a few hundred metres ot the south. He sat on a bench and sighed, watching as people passed by. It was late and so the park was not very busy. He sighed and pulled out a disk-shaped communicator, with a heavy heart he pressed several panels on the side to call Uriel and lifted the device up to his mouth.

Eberion - ''Uriel, it's Eberion. Praetor Taremanon is going mad and has mana--''

He was interrupted when one of his guards moved ot stand in the way of a dart that bounced of fhis armour. He pressed a few more panels which automatically called for a pick-up. He ran and arrived on a ledge overlooking one if the city's avenues, it must have been a kilometre-long drop. A bullet-proof skycar flew down beside him and when the door opened one of the Blood Dragons checked inside while another kept watch on the horizon. With an all-clear signal Eberion climed in and typed in the address of a safehouse in the tundra several kilometres outside of the city. He let out a heavy sigh as the car flew through the urban sprawl towards the countryside. With communicator in-hand, he called Uriel once again to warn him of what was going on.

A Word with the Admiral
Another Brood transmission made its way to the communications screen of Ambassador Lorrelas, again from the Brood of War. Tyraz waited patiently in his communications room, hoping something new had popped up within the TIAF that concerned the nature of the situation he was placed in. Then, his transmission was answered, and he looked to the screen to see Lorrelas smiling at him a little. He looked to her with an expression of frustration upon his face.

Lorrelas - Hello, Tyraz. I understand this is urgent? Tyraz - Has the Federation decided what they wish to do with Crispy yet? Lorrelas - I recently received a notice from the Assembly, they said they have agreed to hand over custody of Crispy. Tyraz - Ah good. So your Assembly finally sees sense! Lorrelas - Matters like these are usually where the Assembly can agree on something sensible, thank goodness. Tyraz - By the way, have you spoke with any of the admirals involved in Crispy's capture? Lorrelas - They were notified that Crispy was to be released to you, though other than that I have not spoken directly to Tzena and Basshu. Tyraz - Then I demand you patch Tzena through. Lorrelas - I'll see if I can contact her. Hold on.

Lorrelas types something into the communicator panel on her side. On Tyraz's screen, another window popped up displaying static. Tyraz looked somewhat unimpressed yet angered.

Tyraz - Well isn't that convenient...

The static soon clears after around a minute and Tzena appears on the window, also looking unimpressed. Tyraz's eyes flared and he leaned forward in anger, and at the top of his voice yelled.

Tyraz - Bitch! Tzena - What is it, Ambassador, you know I'm busy-

Tzena then sees Tyraz and she scowls, her eyes narrowing as she gazes upon his angered face.

Tzena - ...Well, hello. Tyraz - You shall address me as Lord Councillor and you have a lot of explaining to do! Tzena - You know what, Ambassador, this really is an inconvenient time and I should be going.

She begins to type into her communications panel, however Lorrelas shakes her head.

[04:51]  Lorrelas - You are to stay, Tzena. That's an order.

Tzena then stops and pouts a little in frustration, before looking back at Tyraz and snarling.

Tyraz - What were you trying to accomplish by kidnapping Crispy? Do you know how much my people are in uproar right now? Tzena - I was under orders. Not my problem if your people are bitching at you. Tyraz - It is your problem, YOU'RE the one who had him arrested. And YOU represent YOUR empire! Lorrelas - Control your volume, Tyraz. My assistants are getting worried.

Tyraz swiftly looks to Lorrelas with anger, raising his voice.

Tyraz - They should be. Tzena - What, laying the blame on me when I was doing a favor for you? Typical of your kind. Lorrelas - Admiral Tzena, please. Tyraz - Doing me a favour by causing me chaos? Tzena - Do you think I give a damn what he thinks?

Tzena then points to her eye, which had several dark scars around it from a previous conflict.

Tzena - Do you remember how I got these scars?

Tyraz looked a little confused, before the memory began flooding back to him suddenly and he looked away in guilt.

Tzena - You clawed out my goddamn eye, you... well, what do your people call it... Shyrak eater! Tyraz - Of course...now I remember... Tzena - Well, what do you want besides bitching at me? I have stuff to do, like not giving a damn. Tyraz - What further missions do you have in Andromeda that concern the Brood? Tzena - Only the ones that are assigned to me. Tyraz - And do you currently have any? Tzena - None that concern you or your kind. Tyraz - Good. You may leave now... Tzena - Peh. Asshat.

Tzena's window closes on both Tyraz and Lorrelas' screens. Tyraz sighed and looked back to Lorrelas slowly.

Lorrelas - May I ask what that was about? Tyraz - Old conflicts. I also wanted to find out if she had been assigned anymore missions involving the Brood. Lorrelas - Ah, I see... I find that grudges are not usually healthy to keep. Tyraz - I know that best out of anybody... Lorrelas - ...Well, is there any more to discuss? Tyraz - Does the Assembly intend to perform anymore acts behind my back? Lorrelas - They can make no promises but assure you that they will not perform any more operations like this in the future. Tyraz - Good. That puts my mind at rest. Oh and by the way. Lorrelas - Yes? Tyraz - Tell Tzena to sort out her attitude. She's becoming like me. Lorrelas - That's a job for my brother. She will learn some day, I hope. Tyraz - Hopefully. As I said, I have many past regrets...she is one of them. Lorrelas - My brother sometimes tells me she still hasn't let go of her grudge with you. Tyraz - Sometimes I doubt she would like to. Lorrelas - Vengeance is a cruel mistress, is it not? Tyraz - Indeed so...my enemies know that more than anybody... Lorrelas - Well, I shall make sure Teemygo knows to expect you. Good luck in your future, Tyraz. Tyraz - Thank you, miss Lorrelas. It is much appreciated. Lorrelas - I am always here if you need help. Farewell.

They exited their comms and Tyraz stood, walking out of the room. He didn't know what to expect on Teemygo, though he knew it was within TIAF territory and would be pretty inhospitable considering it is a supposed prison planet. He was hoping everything went well, he didn't want to end up spilling the blood of either TIAF officers, or that of Crispy.

Hot Blood
Tyraz's ship arrives within Teemygo's orbit, Tyraz looks down at the surface. The cold temperature and climate made him feel a little uneasy, Tyraz has not seen snow very often throughout his life. He looked away for a moment, before turning back and leaping from the ship. After several seconds, he materialzied on the ground, outside of the main prison complex. He could feel the snow batter his body and armour, a feeling he didn't enjoy. The blizzard was blowing hard, though as it did a Tybusen snow trooper approached to pat-down Tyraz for weaponry. He then speaks into his radio after Tyraz growls at him with a snarl.

Snow Trooper - Alright, he's good.

Tyraz and the snow trooper begin to wade through the snow, while Tyraz looks displeased at him.

Tyraz - You should've been notified of my presence. Snow Trooper - Just a security measure, sir.

Tyraz and the trooper approach the main prison complex, the smell of rotten criminals was outdone by the scent of snow and cold that filled Tyraz's nostrils.

Tyraz - Hmph, I've never got used to the cold...

The two of them enter the prison, with Tyraz wiping some snow off his body and armour while the snow trooper called over captain Braxton. Tyraz grunted as he wiped off the snow but smiled as Braxton approached.

Braxton - Ah, you must be Tyraz! Welcome to Teemygo! It's our own little winter wonderland out here, isn't it?

Braxton chuckles and extends his arm for a handshake. Tyraz reciprocates and shakes his hand, calming down a little.

Tyraz - I like what you've done with the place. Braxton - It's nice in here for an outpost on a frozen rock, isn't it? I'd love to give you a tour of the place, but I understand you've got someone to see here. Tyraz - Indeed, he'd better not have frozen out here. Braxton - Nah, don't worry about him! He said he was enjoying himself, the bastard. Come on out, though you might want to put on a jacket or something.

Braxton chuckles before heading out with Tyraz and a trooper towards the outdoor prison cells.

Tyraz - A...j-jacket? What's that?

The snow trooper hands Tyraz a custom-made jacket fit for Zazane body types. Tyraz looked at it with a little confusion before placing it on his person.

Snow Trooper - Must be waaay beyond your comprehension, huh? Tyraz - Zazane on snow planets usually evolve fur after some time. Snow Trooper - Don't see why they just don't wear jackets. Braxton - Enough, officer. Tyraz, follow me.

Tyraz nods and follows Braxton, shivering a little as he steps outside after putting on the jacket, which had some fur from the native wildlife attached to it. Filled with a feeling of anger, Tyraz and Braxton approached Crispy's cell but to his surprise, it had filled up with snow. Tyraz's eyes widen and he grunts a little.

Tyraz - I don't...see him. Braxton - He's probably napping.

Braxton grabs an adamantium rod on his belt and places it against the energy grates, making a loud buzzing sound in an attempt to wake up the rebel leader. Instead, they hear snoring coming from inside the cell, under all the snow pileup.

Braxton - Oi, Crispy, you sleepy bastard, wake up! You've got a visitor!

He keeps the rod against the grate, before pushing it against the grate more forcefully, making the buzzing sound even louder.

Tyraz - So...this is how Crispy really is? Braxton - He's a bit of a joker, he is.

He presses the rod against the grate one more time but there is still no response.

Braxton - Ah, screw it.

He takes out his gun and fires in any which direction. Crispy's eyes flicker open and he lets out a tired yawn, sitting up and wiping snow off his crest, speaking in a tired tone.

Crispy - Huh? What is it Braxton? Braxton - You've got a special visitor, Crispy. Why don't you get out of that bed and meet him?

Crispy stands up and stretches a little bit, before turning and seeing Braxton with Tyraz. His eyes quickly turn red and he smirks a little, rubbing a little bit more snow off his shoulder.

Crispy - Oh... Braxton - Crispy, Tyraz. Tyraz, Crispy.

Tyraz stares at Crispy, a feeling of anger welling up inside of him, while Crispy simply smiled and walked up to the grate. Tyraz growled, approaching the grate to get a good look at Crispy.

Crispy - Pleased to make your acquitance. Braxton - Careful you two, touch that grate and your hand will be cauterized before you can say "Shyrak!" Tyraz - Crispy...you bastard... Crispy - Hmm? What have I done wrong? Tyraz - You started an insurrection... Crispy - I was actually trying to suggest a new political system. Tyraz - My people are in an uproar! Crispy - That's because you had your TIAF allies put me here. Though, Braxton here isn't a bad guy. Braxton - 'preciate that. Braxton - But we weren't exactly working for Tyraz... Crispy - That's not what his people think. Tyraz - You bastard...You set this up! Crispy - What? You're blaming me for your people reacting badly? Braxton - Woah... Did you really set all this up, Crispy? Crispy - How could I? I was in prison. Braxton - Like, you knew this would happen. Crispy - Hey, blame the Assembly for arresting me. What was I supposed to do? Kill your forces or let myself surrender to save lives? Braxton - Dunno. Though no one would've missed Tzena. Crispy - Ugh, that woman. She didn't seem to like me at all. Braxton - Don't worry. She hates everyone. Crispy - Especially Tyraz from what I hear. Tyraz - Crispy, how do you know so much about me? Crispy - Well it's hard not know so much about you. Tyraz - What does that mea-- Crispy - Well, I think it's cold enough out here. Can we go inside? Braxton - Well, it's your lucky day, Crispy, because you get to go home with Tyraz today. No more of this prison.

Braxton activates the zero-point field and then cuffs Crispy after deactivating the energy grate.

Crispy - Really? That's a shame, I was talking to a guy about a meeting in the showers. Something about soap and glass. Braxton - Spodedamnit. Don't tell me he dropped the soap again. Frozen soap's hard to clean. Crispy - The guy only has five outta six fingers. It's hard for him. Ah yes, I remember! He lost his finger after cutting it off with glass. Braxton - Grr, I'm gonna have to get that fixed. We gotta get better glass in this place. Well, let's get moving.

Braxton gestures with his hand to start moving. Crispy nods and began to walk with Braxton and Tyraz, a smile on his face while Tyraz bared his teeth.

Crispy - So, Tyraz, how's the family? Tyraz - Grr...shut your mouth, Shyrak eater, don't speak to me. Crispy - Oh...right, okay, I understand. Hey Braxton, got any alcohol on this planet? Or at least a soda? Braxton - We've got beer if you want some. Or vodka, if that's what suits you. Crispy - Hehe, vodka, soda and ice is good for me, thanks. You know, that dude with five fingers, he has a really nice, pleasant fami-- Tyraz - Family. Do you have family Crispy?

Crispy turns a little to Tyraz and bared his teeth slightly, a red glare in his eyes as the mention of his own family agitated him.

Crispy - Mine were killed fighting a war for your brother. Ramvelkys, where you gained his throne. Tyraz - I remember Ramvelkys...that place was a warzone... Crispy - Hmph.

Crispy looks back to Braxton, seemingly calmed down.

Crispy - As I was saying, vodka, soda and ice if you got some. Braxton - Yeah, sure thing.

Braxton points to an officer sitting at a desk in the main building, making a few hand signals. A few minutes later the officer returns with some drinks. Crispy chuckles and then looks to Braxton.

Crispy - Unless you want me to drink from a straw, could you perhaps uncuff me? I ain't gonna lash out when we have Tyraz, the Lord Councillor, here.

Braxton hesitates to think before shrugging.

Braxton - I guess I can trust you enough.

Braxton uncuffs Crispy, handing him his drink. Crispy smiles and nods to Braxton before beginning to drink from the glass.

Crispy - Mmm...tastes better than the snow. Tyraz - Braxton, why are you so friendly with him...? This man... Braxton - He's a nice guy. Sure, he's a bastard and all, but he's a nice guy. Tyraz - A nice guy...this man has single-handedly ruined me! Crispy - Correction, Tyraz; you have ruined yourself with all your past mistakes and the people just can't tolerate anymore. Braxton - Never said he was a good guy. Just a nice guy. Crispy - Hehe, well living a life of anger and hate never really gets anybody anywhere.

Tyraz gasps a little, his eyes starting to flare somewhat as he placed a hand on his Firesword, trying his best not to strike out, although the feeling that the angry instinct side of his mind was about to take over remained. Braxton got himself a drink calmly.

Braxton - Well, the guy practically saved you guys from the Grox, didn't he? Crispy - Every leader has their good qualities, he has done a lot for Andromeda but he has done a lot of stuff that has made mockery of Zazane. Such as being unable to control his powers. Braxton - Hey, Tyraz, buddy, do you want a drink too? Tyraz - I'd better not...

Braxton downs the rest of his drink and lets out a delighted sigh.

Braxton - Ah, nothing like a good drink once in a while. Crispy - Hehe, isn't that right Tyraz? You've drunken outside the Brood before, so I believe. Tyraz - I have been known to...accept a beverage every once in a while. Crispy - That so? Heh, Braxton, what do you think of Tyraz? Same as Tzena? Braxton - Definitely better than that bitch Tzena. Dear Spode I don't know how she got to the top. Crispy - And as a leader, how do you think I would do? Braxton - I dunno, you talk a lot about democracy, diplomacy, freedom... You'd make an okay leader though Tyraz is cool too. Tyraz - I...I've made alliances... Crispy - And babies too! Hehe, you're too friendly Tyraz! Braxton - Don't get me wrong Tyraz. I love you, you're an awesome guy. The Federation loves you. Tyraz - So the Federation decides to arrest THIS scum behind MY back?! Braxton - The Federation thought we were doing you a favor. Tyraz - My people are in uproar! Crispy - So, what does that show?

Tyraz stopped to think for a moment, before turning his head a little to Crispy in with a confused expression.

Tyraz - Huh, what? Crispy - It means they're upset you took away the man who could've gave them democracy and right of speech. Braxton - Tyraz, why don't you just give the people democracy or whatever. You've got the power to do it. Tyraz - Then the people will want me out! Crispy - Who can blame them? You're Breek, you can't keep control of yourself when angr--

Tyraz roared angrily at Crispy.

Tyraz - Shut up, traitor! Braxton - Hey, don't blame the people for hatin'. That's just how democracy works. Crispy - Tyraz, you have to accept you made the wrong decisions. Hey, it's stressful being emperor and all, but that's how it goes. Braxton - Everyone makes bad decisions, that's no reason to detract from someone though.

Braxton fills his glass with more alcohol.

Crispy - Well, Tyraz has to make up for it while he still can. I mean, the Insurrection's getting new planets to join them every day.

Braxton - Dunno how that's happening without you there, big guy. Crispy - What, you think cutting off the snake's head kills the rest of the body? Braxton - Biology, my friend. Biology. Crispy - Doesn't quite work in politics unless your government is unstable. Snow Trooper - Well if you cut the snake into little bits and put it in a nice stir-fry- Braxton - Enough, officer.

Crispy licked his chops at the mention of food.

Crispy - Ooh that sounds delicious, lunch anybody? Tyraz - Crispy, you are scum if I ever saw it! Crispy - Huh? What's with all the violence and hate Tyraz? You barely know me! Braxton - Officer, what's the grub today? Snow Trooper - Crispy chicken soft tacos, sir. Braxton - Ah, delicious. It's in the cafeteria if you two blokes want any.

Braxton goes off into the cafeteria with the snow trooper, leaving Tyraz and Crispy with each other.

Crispy - I'll meet you there! Tyraz - No, you won't!

Tyraz draws his Firesword and points it at Crispy's neck, a threatening expression upon his face, his teeth bared and eyes flaring while black energy leaked from his body. Braxton returned shortly and gasped at the sight.

Braxton - Hey, woah. I thought you said you wanted him alive!

Crispy slowly looks back to Tyraz, a smile on his face as he sees the sword pointed at him, as well as Tyraz's angered expression. Crispy chuckled a little at Tyraz's threat.

Crispy - Yeah Tyraz, I thought you wanted me alive. For your people, remember? Tyraz - I'm tired of your attitude and behaviour! Braxton - You two, come on. Crispy chicken soft tacos! Tyraz - Silence! You don't know how much I want you dead, rebel! Crispy - Rebel? I'm trying to bring in democracy and you call me a rebel? Braxton - Taaaaaaaacos, you guys! TAAAAACOS!

Crispy's smile turns into an expression of frustration and he sighs.

Crispy - Sorry Braxton, I may need to leave early. Braxton - Well, Tyraz is supposed to be taking you home. Crispy - I thank you for the drink and offer for food though. Braxton - Oh, no problem. Just Tybusenian hospitality. Crispy - Shouldn't the term still be "Tybusen"? Braxton - We just call it Tybusenian now for the TIAF. Tybusen's for, you know, Tybusen. Crispy - Huh, well now that's something new. Hey, do you guys use honourifics when referring to people's names? Braxton - Sometimes. Depends on who you're talking to.

Tyraz roars angrily.

Tyraz - Enough! Come on, traitor, lets get you back to Daedalus for questing! Crispy - Alright! You only need to shout once. Braxton - Don't get lost in the snowstorm, you two, they'll kill me if I let you two get lost!

Braxton chuckles a little before muttering to himself.

Braxton - Ah, they probably would. Crispy - Hey, I was sleeping in it a minute a go! Braxton - Ah, then savor your last few minutes out there before Tyraz gets you on his ship. Probably will be your last few minutes of freedom. Crispy - Probably, but then, his people wouldn't like it. Braxton - Just do what's necessary then.

Tyraz left the prison with Crispy in front of him so he could keep an eye on him. Crispy felt satisfied he was about to leave this frozen wasteland, though the thought didn't comfort Tyraz. Tyraz would rather have left without Crispy, however now he has the traitor in his grasp. He could kill him here and now, it would be easy. Tyraz's blood began to boil with hate and anger, however he sighed and kept his focus before being teleported up to the Ghost of the Warrior with Crispy.

Family Ties
Within a few days of Eberion's signal, Uriel had him meet aboard the RASC Alaveas. Eberion was secretly taken aboard disguised as one of the ship's crew. Uriel met him at the hanger bay and welcomed his half-brother with open arms only to see the man look back at him solemnly. Uriel rested his hands on Eberion's shoulders.

Uriel - You said you had dire news, is something wrong in the Senate? Eberion - ''Uriel. Taremanon is framing you and potentially our entire house.''

Uriel stepped back in shock. His mind thought it impossible but Eberion's solemn expression confirmed his fears. With a slight nod the two of them headed towards Uriel's personal apartments on board. Along the way Eberion filled him in as they passed through gilded halls and lifts.

Eberion - Taremanon is bitter for your siding with Tyraz, he has the entire circle of praetors thinking you and I are puppets to the Breek. Uriel - Impossible, I know Tyraz he would never use me like this. Eberion - ''Face facts Uriel, you've know nhim personalyl for, what, 5 years? How long have you known Taremanon.'' Uriel - Tyraz is different. Eberion - Differnt how? Uriel - ''For one, he's not power-hungry like Taremanon. All he cares about is the survival of his people.'' Eberion - ''Come on brother. how many politicians have said they wanted the best for their people?''

Uriel sighed as they entered the lobby of the apartments. Soft classical music and a honeyed scent filled the air as the two of them sat down on a seating unit on the far end of the room as a servant entered with a plate of roasted diced meat, wine and fruit slices. The two of them conservatively picked at the servings. As Eberion tossed a square of spiced meat into his mouth uriel leaned forward to speak.

Uriel - I've looked into Tyraz eyes, unlike these other politicians he sees himself as a failure.-- Eberion - And that's good? Uriel - ''Let me finish. He wants to improve himself, by Drakon's grace i've looked into his eyes and I think he even looks up to me.'' Eberion - Who wouldn't. You're a wise leader, you have done good for the Imperium, we're entering a new golden age. Uriel - ''It is not entirely like that. One time when I talked with him, he displayed how upsetting his childhood was. It was hard ot tell if he was looking at me with envy for growing up with relative safety, comfort or populaity; or wishing that he could have lived my life.'' Eberion - What are you trying to say, brother?

Uriel took a sip of wine and looked directly at Eberion who lay slouched across a lounger with his wings hanging loosely over his side.

Uriel - ''I think-- Maybe I am one of the first true friends he's had. Either in a long time or ever.'' Eberion - Didn't you say he was married? Uriel - Long story apparently, point is he never really loved her. Eberion - Was it a political thing? Uriel - ''Not that time but we are straying from the conversation. Remember my account of Avanti during the War?

Eberion sipped form a glass as he relaxed, lazily eager to hear one of Uriel's war stories.

Eberion - You'll have to go into more detail. Uriel - ''When a group of sodliers and I were securing a data-cache, we felt an earthquake outside. According to some soldiers observing the scene, Tyraz had plunged his sword in the way of the door and stopped a single soldier getting in.'' Eberion - ''Does he know you're fully-capable of handling yourself? I saw you during the wasp wars, remember?'' Uriel - ''He's always been somewhat protective of me.

Uriel sat up and leaned towards Eberion as a servant brought more for them to eat. As she refilled their glasses Uriel aimlessly shooed her away, to which she complied silently.

Uriel - Do not let this spread but on Alcanti, Tyraz almost saved my life. Eberion - So what happened exactly. Uriel - ''Volkarus came in the size of a building, he decimated my dragons, some of them were peeled open with a clench of his fist. I held my ground and he grabbed me by the waist. As I struggled Tyraz burst through the doors. After feeling excruciating pain he fought to defend me after Volkarus droppped me. In my last few mooments of life... he was next to me, he wanted to comfort me but as I slipped away I could hear his voice...he regretted the death.''

Eberion had stoppe ddringking after Uriel told of how uriel had technically died. He placed his glass down and sighed.

Eberion - You're saying Tyraz-- Uriel - ''Regretted how he gave Volkarus that kind of power. Alensia told me later that apparently he had offered to give me the power in order to return me to life...so to speak.'' Eberion - "So to speak"? Uriel - ''He's technically dead. In "ressurecting" me I would be a walking body as well.''

Eberion felt a chill as he finished eating a lice of fruit.

Eberion - ''I...See. How exactly does this help convince the praetors they're wrong about Tyraz.'' Uriel - ''I am unsure, and if I tell him it will be a repeat incident of Daedelus. Tyraz is somewhat fragile and if I must keep him in the dark to keep his mind guilt-free then I see no other option. Are there any houses who still support us?'' Eberion - ''Praetors of House Senvinus, Orilita and Gaenium refuse to believe he is a manipulator. As I understand it Praetor Gadarvus has had regular contact with the leader of a Zazane collective in our own borders who happens to speak highly of Tyraz as a visionaary.'' Uriel - At least there is some hope. Eberion - ''Hosue Valocanus is out for Tyraz's blood, I could see it in Taremanon's eyes! The man has grown old and politics have changed but not him. Perhaps it is time to consider him an old friend?''

Uriel nodded as he downed another glass of wine.

Eberion - ''Now, do you mind if I stay aboard ship for a while? I fear the Praetors may have something planned with me.'' Uriel - ''Of course brother. Take what you need.''

Eberion stood up and smiled at Uriel. The former took up a slice of fruit and a glass of wine in his hands as he walked away, he turned to Uriel with a warm smile.

Eberion - You were always my favourite little brother.

As he left, Uriel chuckled to himself and finished the wine in the glass before relaxing in the lounger. As he lay down he picked up a meat square and tossed it into his mouth.

Uriel - ''Hmph, "puppetmaster". What will they think of next?''

Released and Returned
Tyraz fell through the sky from his ship, landing perfectly on the ground without a single crack. Dark essences were leaking from his body, though he wasn't bothered. He stood from his crouched position as two Niddan Ho guards nodded to him, with them standing outside the secret entrance to the palace. Tyraz took a few steps forward before looking back to see Crispy materialize below the ship, with him being teleported down. He smiled charmingly at the Niddan Ho and walked behind Tyraz, who headed inside. He walked through a long corridor, decorated with scriptures and scrolls, as well as blades and other melee weaponry. Tyraz paid no attention to Crispy, who looked around the corridor to examine the decorations.

After a few minutes, Tyraz entered the meeting room of the Council. Inside, three members of the Council, Keldar, Kryptkor and Sanron, were awaiting Tyraz's return. However, they did not expect to see a smiling Crispy walk in behind him. Crispy didn't even looked faze at their very presence.

Tyraz - I managed to bring the traitor out of his prison, the TIAF willingly gave him up.

Kryptkor examined Crispy up and down for a second.

Kryptkor - He looks the same as I remember...maybe a little more frostbitten. Crispy - Hehe, says you, Kryptkor.

Sanron sat forward in his seat and also examined Kryptkor, before opening his mouth to speak.

Sanron - Crispy, are you aware of the trouble you are causing in the Brood? As we speak, military defences have been pulled away to try and contain riots on this very planet.

Crispy sighed and looked at the Councillors, before turning his head to look Tyraz directly in the eye.

Crispy - Trouble I have caused? The people don't see Tyraz as the most favourable option anymore, yet you persist to keep him in charge when I offer better quality to my kind. Kryptkor - Well these riots are not exactly "better quality". Crispy - Kryptkor, you've seen the worlds I have transformed. My people are happy that I am leading them, because of developements in technological advancements that the Brood doesn't have just yet, as well as a more secure military force. Kryptkor - ...I suppose.

Keldar stepped forward, a hand on her blade as she walked. She approached Crispy, trying to intimidate him.

Keldar - Hmph, and where do you get the resources from? Stealing it from lesser empires that you have bullied? Crispy - Well actually they willingly joined my cause. But yes, our technology is partially from the combined efforts of lesser empires and my own.

Kryptkor rubbed his chin.

Kryptkor - This confirms the alien involvement. Crispy - And what is wrong with alien involvement? The Brood also houses aliens, why can't my Movement? Kryptkor - Well you make it sound like your movement is xenophobic sometimes. Crispy - Oh! Yes, about that. Well, unlike my good friend Tyraz here, I'm not willing to go dating aliens. You seen how many of our people are disgusted by this fact?

Tyraz growled and grabbed Keldar's blade, placing it against Crispy's throat, although Crispy again didn't seem to fear it, nor actually care.

Tyraz - Watch your tongue! My connections with alien individuals shouldn't have anything to do with you! Kryptkor - See, this is one thing I find wrong about you. Why should someone's personal life be of your concern? Crispy - Ohoh, but wasn't it the fact that your son, who is the result of an interspecies "fling", was the cause of the entire Holy Shadow War? Tyraz - Grr...How dare you speak of my child! Kryptkor - How do you even know about that?

Crispy smiled deviously.

Crispy - I have my sources. People in Andromeda aren't so happy about the Holy Shadow War incident, with millions of their dead rising to kill them. Who knows, if news gets about like it has in the Imperium... Tyraz - Wait, it has been spread through the Draconid Imperium?! Kryptkor - That can't be good... Crispy - Of course, the public deserve to know who caused their dead brothers to appear again. And about having the TIAF arrest me, well...let's jusr say I'm not so happy about that. Tyraz - I did not have them arrest you! They did this behind my back, against my knowledge!

Kryptkor mutters quietly to himself.

Kryptkor - That's what you say... Crispy - Stop denying it Tyraz! You wanted me out of the way so that you could attack my brothers in the Insurrection, but you never thought your people would find out the truth! Sanron - Crispy, why go through such lengths to try and have Tyraz removed from the throne? Crispy - Because the people deserve better than this demon! Keldar - This 'demon' has a place as a Highlord of Andromeda, he leads mainly all armies in the Commonwealth's territor-- Crispy - You think he deserves such? What about you Kryptkor, do you think his place as a Highlord is deserved? Kryptkor - Well...Tyraz did a lot of good for me and many others... Crispy - And have I not? Do you see MY people rebelling against me?

Kryptkor looked apprehensive toward Crispy.

Kryptkor - ...I have nothing to say. Crispy - Even you Kryptkor, your people respect you, they are happy to be led by you. But with Tyraz...well, you may think he's a saviour but you want to know what really happened? Tyraz embraced the demonic side of himself to defeat Br'Klakkon, he gave in his morality for the intense power to defeat him. Who is to say it won't corrupt him? Or corrupting him even now? Kryptkor - I know what corruption is like. I was once a slave of a corrupted dictator...I have nothing to say. Crispy - Keldar! You were once a leader of your own faction, the Nuns of Conflict, wasn't it? You had your independance and what did Tyraz do? He merged you and your army back in and made them a mere legion. Keldar - I...I gained a place as a member of the Council. Crispy - And then what? You think Tyraz really listens to what his fellow Council members have to say? If they oppose his opinions, he dislikes them, as evidenced by my unjust arrest. Tyraz - That is not true! The word of my fellow Councillors mean--

Crispy growled and interrupted.

Crispy - Absolutely nothing! You'll just sit at your seat, pay no attention, and do as you please! Sanron - ...I think we should take Crispy back to his own territory now. We do not want word that he is here with us getting out to the public. All of you, even you Crispy, have seen nothing. Crispy - Understood. Kryptkor, dear friend, may you take me back? I find Tyraz hard to trust.

Crispy looks to Tyraz and growls aggressively for a few seconds before looking back at Kryptkor.

Kryptkor - ...Alright.

Kryptkor and Crispy leave the room, while Tyraz hands Keldar's sword back to her, which she puts away back to the strap on her leg. Tyraz sighed and took a seat, with Keldar looking to him with a look of concern upon her face. Several minutes later, Crispy was with Kryptkor on the bridge of his ship, the Emperor of the Soul. Crispy walked beside him, smiling, while Kryptkor looked unamused.

Crispy - So, Kryptkor, buddy... Kryptkor - I'm not your buddy, Crispy. Stop refering to me as such. Crispy - Hey, I was only trying to be friendly. Anyway, back in the meeting room, you looked a little...distressed. Kryptkor - Tyraz is my friend but...what if you're right? Crispy - Your people would find him very unpopular if he can't keep his own people under control. I'm on your side here, I only want what's better for the Brood. Kryptkor - I too want the best for the Brood... Crispy - You've seen what I can do, you've seen how my people are happy. Why do you not support me in this? Kryptkor - You're still a stranger to me. And I'm not one who just turns his back to the one who saved my life. Crispy - I see, yes. Your loyalty to Tyraz is impressive, even admirable. I respect people like that, Kryptkor, including you. Kryptkor - You're...not half-bad either.

Crispy chuckled and gave a friendly smile to Kryptkor.

Crispy - Do not get me wrong, Tyraz isn't all bad but...I fear he has lost himself to that demon inside of him. Are you not concerned about this? Kryptkor - Sincerely I've never payed attention. I have never seen the "demon" personally. Crispy - I see, but you can ask Uriel Ultanos from the Imperium about it. He has seen it on various occasions, as well as High Inquisitor Arsac. The Inquisition would just love to condemn Tyraz to the Realm of Absolution for it. Kryptkor - I've never met either of these, and by what I heard about Arsac, she doesn't seem like the most pleasant woman ever. Crispy - She's an Inquisitor. Bound by duty and rules. She has had experience fighting demons for the past several centuries. Tyraz is well on the path to losing himself, you see how angry he gets when somebody doesn't agree with his views? Imagine if you showed disagreement to him, you think he'd spare you?

Kryptkor paused a little and hesitated to answer.

Kryptkor - I...don't know... Crispy - He has no problem killing other Zazane with a simple order. His own people fight to get their views across and he kills them. Kryptkor - Hm... Crispy - And most of all, he is Umbrux's Champion. The supposed saviour of our race, abusing his very power. Kryptkor - I see... Crispy - Would you do that? Use that power, granted by your god, to abuse your people? Kryptkor - Of course not! My people have been abused too much already. Crispy - Well, that's what is happening with Tyraz. And just to think, you may be the leader of your race but they are part of HIS empire. Kryptkor - Hmm... Crispy - And then there's the fact he used his alien allies to arrest me in an attempt to get rid of me... Kryptkor - That's low... Crispy - How can you show respect to a man like that? Because of him, I lost several good men in the battle which I surrendered to keep anymore of my people from dying.

Kryptkor remained silent.

Crispy - Zazane are a warrior race, yes. But this isn't about tradition or honour, this is about unity and survival. And Tyraz promised this, but all we have seen is nothing but death and conflict. Kryptkor - I don't want to talk about this anymore. Crispy - Well, alright, if you insist. If you're ever interested though, just contact me. You're a good man, I hate seeing good men in distress. Kryptkor - We'll see...

Crispy hummed a little, somewhat playfully.

Crispy - I just can't believe he reduced Keldar's own individual army into a mere legion...the shame of it. Kryptkor - She deserves more... Crispy - She's a valiant fighter. She cares a lot for her soldiers, I think she gets lonely though Without a male. All she has is her sisters. Kryptkor - Yes... Crispy - Ah well, hey got a bar or anything on this ship? Oh wait...Brood regulations...Err I think I'll go have a cold drink. Wanna join? Kryptkor - I suppose.

Kryptkor and Crispy head off to the ship's mess hall to go fetch some drinks for themselves, although alcohol was forbidden on all Brood vessels. Instead, they would be getting some form of juice or blood with ice, chilled to almost frozen to retain flavour. Several hours later, Crispy would be dropped off at his ship, the Orochi, which waited patiently at the edge of Daedalus' star system. After the Emperor of the Soul returned back, the Orochi left the star system.

Crispy walked into the navigations room. He took his place at his throne, smiling while his eyes flickered red for a moment. Kharnes Gaarl walked up behind the throne and stood at its side.

Kharnes - Lord Crispy, it is good to see-- Crispy - Kharnes. Kharnes - I mean, Crispy, it is good to see you again. Especially in one piece. Crispy - Kharnes, this isn't much like you. Kharnes - Things have been stagnant aside from our progress in Ko'So'Va. Crispy - Rozarel is still alive? Kharnes - Yes, and he says that the Drakodominatus Tyranny requests a meeting. The Dominatus on the colony Invictus wishes your presence, though I had ordered them to be patient until you return. Crispy - Is that so? Drakodominatus? I heard they are quite the warriors and sadists, addicted to causing pain. Reminds me...of my old master... Kharnes - Crispy...? Crispy - Oh. It's nothing, just some old memories that refuse to stay dead. Alright, I shall go to Invictus. And to prove my worth, I shall go unguarded. Kharnes - I have heard that the descipable Medusa Heimdall resides in Andromeda in the Tyranny colonies. I hope she's not easy to piss off like Tyraz. Crispy - Kharnes, let's get moving. Our presence here should not be overstayed.

Dark Sorority
Kalcedia resided in the ship's leisure room as she was heading back to UNO territory through autopilot. Kalcedia sighed as she closed her eyes. The room around her was a virtual reality, it was all white walls that used technology to make it appear as if Kalcedia was surrounded by nature. A green forest, far away from Kalcedia's usual surroundings, which were the cities of UNO where she would work her day-job as a rather questionable figure; sometimes an "escort", sometimes a stripper, she wanted it all. The pleasure, the money, the merchandise. She didn't care what people thought of her, she was living her life happily. However, now everything has changed. The flashback, the one of that Zazane boy and her as teenagers, fighting...What could it mean? How could she have a flashback of something she never experienced? She was confused, she was...scared. She didn't understand. So, she decided to place herself inside the holo-room, to try and find out. She closed both of her eyes, taking a deep breath. And soon, she began to recieve another vision.

The same Zazane male appeared to her, but the location was different. It was night time, as the room he was in was almost completely dark, aside from the moonlight that came through the window. He stood close to a female Zazane, she could recognize this one from her previous vision. It was her, except she was wearing little clothing aside from a breast and waist plate, not like before where she was wearing full training armour. No, this time it seemed as if she was resting. The male was also wearing a few plates, over his shoulders and waist. They were older here by a few years. The Zazane male looked to Kalcedia with a smile.

??? - So, I saw you looking at me today when I fought Rophan. Kalcedia - Rophan, Hyndras, Jakarel, I look at you always when you fight somebody. ??? - Is that so? Kalcedia - You know I can't take my eyes off you... ??? - Why? Why are you keen on me when I fight? Kalcedia - It's not just when you fight, it's...

Kalcedia didn't continue, she felt physically incapable of talking. The male Zazane smiled and placed a hand on her shoulder.

??? - Sssh... Kalcedia - No! I can't! I need to let them out! I don't want to hide it forever! ??? - I wasn't asking you to let it out. I was going to say that I already know.

Kalcedia's expression turned from frustration to surprise, as if amazed.

Kalcedia - You...y-you do? ??? - Yes, it's not hard to figure out. Why do you think I am so nice to you? Kalcedia - W-Well, we were friends for a long ti-- ??? - No. I stood by you because--

Suddenly, Kalcedia's vision vanished, replaced with the sound of a siren and a red flashing light. Her eyes flickered open and saw the holographic world around her disappear. Something has interrupted the ship's course. Kalcedia stood and walked towards the cockpit of the ship, feeling aggravated and annoyed. When she walked into her cockpit, she saw a small fleet of Zazane ships surrounding her, they had managed to stop her ship's course.

Kalcedia - What the...

A communications request appeared on a digital screen on a nearby panel. Kalcedia looked towards it and placed her hand on the screen, accepting the request to speak. Appearing on a holo-screen was a Zazane female, with a cybernetically enhanced eye.

Kalcedia - What is the meaning of this? Female - You have ventured into our territory, yet you demand what WE are doing? Kalcedia - May I ask whose territory this is? I had no intention of-- Female - You are in the territory of the Dark Sorority.

Kalcedia narrowed her eyes and snarled a little, baring her sharp teeth.

Kalcedia - Dark Sorority? Female - Yes. The Dark Sorority, the most powerful fighting force of female Zazane in the entire Andromeda galaxy! Kalcedia - You sound like feminist fanatics... Female - The males of our kind are useless! Tyraz is a vile demon, Kryptkor is a former pirate and a fool for following Tyraz, Crispy...he's nothing but a petty revolutionist! No, us females are much more adept at keeping people in line. Kalcedia - You got that right! Allow me passage or I won't have to put a bullet through your brain! Female - Tsk, tsk, tsk...You remind me of that bitch Keldar Taran. She was weak from the start, she would make her promises and never fulfill them! When she decided to merge the Nuns of Conflict into the Brood...she had given up all she fought for! Kalcedia - So...who exactly are you? Female - We are the next step of the Nuns of Conflict! Kalcedia - Remnants... Female - No, not remnants! Believe it or not, but a majority of the Nuns decided not to follow Keldar's order of merging with the Brood. We shall not be integrated into that male-dominated society! We are our own nation, our own empire! And we do not take kindly to those outside of the Sorority! Kalcedia - Bite me, you whore! I'm going back to Borealis to rejoin my unit, you can't stop me! Female - Hmph! Sisters, incapacitate and capture her! Kalcedia - Come and get me!

With that, Kalcedia hung up and she grabbed her beloved rifle, Sinidaarl. She loaded it up with what ammo she had and carried a few packs with her for when she needs to reload. She watched as several attack craft approached her ship, and she growled aggressively. She didn't know how long she'd last, since she would be getting up close with these Zazane, something she doesn't do often. However, she was a strong warrior, strong enough to pin male Zazane to walls by their necks. Although, she didn't know how advanced or strong this force was. Only time will tell...

Meanwhile, onboard the main ship of the Dark Sorority, a Ruin Dreadnought known as the Impure Rose, the leader of the operation looked to her sisters that stood by her black metal throne. She smiled as her attack craft approached Kalcedia's ship on her viewing screen, sitting with her legs crossed and tapping her claw on the arm of her throne.

Leader - I hope they know what they are in for.

One of her crew, another female Zazane, walked in through the doors to the navigation room where the leader was residing. The crew member got on one knee, kneeling to her in respect.

Crew Woman - Mistress Lichiatt, our forces are engaging the intruder. Lichiatt - I know, Metami. I am currently viewing the battle.

The crew girl looked up at her leader with an expression of sorrow.

Metami - S-Sorry, Mistress L-Lichiatt... Lichiatt - Why are you so nervous? Metami - Uhh...no reason, Mistre-- Lichiatt - At ease, Metami. Metami - Oh, o-okay m-mis...I mean, Lichiatt. Lichiatt - Why are you so nervous? Metami - Well, I d-didn't know you were watching a-and... Lichiatt - It's okay Metami. Nothing to get upset over.

Metami nodded and left the room. Lichiatt sighed, resting her head in her hand as she watched the screen. Her smile picked up again once she saw her attack craft fire upon Kalcedia's ship.

Lichiatt - So, at long last we meet again...I have awaited this day for a while. It shall be good to wrap my hands around your pathetic neck again, Kalcedia!

The Temptress and the Rebel
Medusa Heimdall sat in the throne of her massive spire on Invictus, the Dominatus capital in Andromeda. The planet was incredibly fiery, covered in volcanoes and seas of magma. She was here instead of Elysion, the AGC embassy for one reason and one reason only, to secure positive relations with Crispy, the leader of the Insurrection, who would have caused trouble had he been on Elysion. Perched in the exquisitely sculpted mouth of a Behenoserkonatus, made in black marble and with gold trim, which had steps made out of the finest diamond which seemed to be held up by countless sculptures of subjugated species

Crispy walked through the corridor towards her throne room, unguarded and led by two Dominatus guards. His expression was null, though he was eager to talk. The two massive honor guards suddenly stopped before the Throne Room and sidestepped, stepping to the flanks of the room.

Medusa - So, you are Crispy, I am Medusa Heimdall, and i believe we can establish something mutually beneficial. Crispy - ''I am indeed Crispy. State why you invited me here, miss Heimdall.'' Medusa - I have invited you here in order to come to a series of agreements that would be beneficial for both of our factions. Crispy - ''Is that so? If that is the case, this may take a while. And if this is to take a while...I desire a seat.''

Medusa motions to a Dominatus honor guard, who lifts a 100 ton golden seat and places it to the side of Crispy, who looked at it with an expression that showed he was somewhat impressed by their strength.

Medusa - A Golden seat for the Golden Movement. Crispy - ''How very fitting. Though wood would have sufficed.''

He then lays down on the seat, casually resting on its arms. He looked up at the ceiling, before closing his eyes, mimicking sleeping.

Medusa - Now tell me, what kind of technology does the Golden Movement have, specifically for military ships? Crispy - ''We have...a variety, mainly converted from the technology of lesser races. Though we have...enhanced it with Shidium energy resources. Powerful enough to cut through adamantium, titanium, tungsten, you name it. And what's more, instead of the Brood's pathetic guns burning flesh, our guns incinerate it at the molecular level, consuming everything in murderous heat.'' Medusa - Perhaps you would be willing to give it to us, so as to solidify an alliance and our support? Crispy - ''Shidium is quite hard to come by...especially for aliens such as you. The Brood are unwilling to share even with their beloved allies, the Imperium. Why should I hand such over to you?'' Medusa - ''You have nothing to lose by giving us the Shidium and everything to gain, game theoretically speaking it is the dominant strategy for you. You need not give us the actual weapons as that would impose logistic strain on you, merely the blueprints, I see nothing bad happening to the Insurrection if you followed that line of logic.'' Crispy - ''And I see nothing bad happening to the Insurrection if I don't hand it over. This is merely a diplomatic meeting, I would assume? Or have you assassins just dying to put a bullet through my skull if I say no?'' Medusa - ''And you have everything to gain from handing us the blueprints. You have the political and moral support of the Tyranny to a degree judged by me, what more could you ask for?'' Crispy - Hehe, well...

Crispy sighs and looks to his side, away from Medusa, a saddening expression on his face.

Crispy - I desire a great many things in life. Medusa - Such things can possibly be provided, what are these? Crispy - ''No mere things like immortality and legacy. I desire...everything the working man earns. Family, home, friends...love, companionship. Oh so few people I can trust these days.'' Medusa - Perhaps I would be able to provide the things that your heart craves? Crispy - ''And how would you do this? What powers do you have in your control that can possibly grant me such?'' Medusa - Who's to say I don't, who's to say there are limits to my power. Crispy - ''But what are those limits? What is it that the great Medusa Heimdall cannot do for a man such as myself? Surely she is too high up to possibly even care for the desires of a man like me.'' Medusa - ''If your provide me with what I desire, perhaps I can bring myself down to ascend such beings as yourself. My generosity is boundless to those who do as I wish.'' Crispy - ''You...want me under your service? ''

Crispy sits up in his throne and he tilts his head in curiosity.

Crispy - You promise the desires I wish? Medusa - ''Yes, that is exactly what I want. You shall have everything you desire Zazane'' Crispy - Prove it to me, show me an example of your generosity, mistress...

Medusa sauntered her way to Crispy in the most seductive way she knew, feigning affection for the Zazane. Medusa knew that this maneuver sometimes worked, as she had used it to annex a small empire diplomatically before. Crispy looks on and his expressions turns to awe and captivation, standing from his seat and taking a step forward. Medusa gently lifts Crispy so he is eye to eye with her.

Medusa - Be my servant and we shall complete each other ...

Medusa told the two honor guards to get out, to spare them from the sight of what she would attempt next. At that, the two honor guards, almost puking from the sight of inter-species romance exited the room quickly.

Crispy - ''Wow, it is true about the rumours of my people...Those who have witnessed your gracious presence do feel...excited, readied. As if eager to stand by you, or near you.''

At that Medusa brought her face closer to that of Crispy almost touching.

Crispy - ''Your species has always interested me...such addiction to pain and warfare, it is instinctively beautiful to me, as a Zazane. And you...you are the eternal, bloody essence of the battlefield, the very thing that makes conflict beautiful.'' Medusa - It is the ecstasy of this conflict, of blood and iron that encapsulates the whole of our species.

Crispy makes eye-contact with her, when his irises began to slowly transition to crimson red, displaying his excitement. Medusa feigns affection again and stares intently into his eyes.

Crispy - Your dominance makes me weak, you know...How does it feel to have a leader of an insurrection in your very grasps, under your control...his forces dedicated solely to you? Medusa -It makes me as I should feel you, complete. Crispy - Is that so...I love the feel of a dominant woman, one who can captivate me, one who can use me...

Medusa knew her dominance was complete and was bringing her mouth closer to that of Crispy. However, before the kiss could be initiated, Crispy closed his eyes, as if ready to accept her embrace, before chuckling.

Crispy - It truly is a shame you're not one of them. Medusa - So you do know this was just a ploy for me to get weapons from you? Crispy - ''I must admit, you had me excited. But...well, do I look like Tyraz? You're a deceiver, a manipulator, I respect that, but my mistress and ruler? I think you should stick to your day job.''

Medusa laughs aloud at this.

Medusa - ''The first one to have seen through my ploys aside from Uriel. Very well, since romance isn't good enough for your technology, what is?''

Crispy also chuckles and smiles, his teeth showing dashingly.

Crispy - Two large legions of your finest soldiers. Medusa - Define a legion. Crispy - One hundred or over. Medusa - Very well, you shall receive 300 warriors. Crispy - ''Very good. Oh, and uh, unless you are going to stick your tongue into my mouth, would you mind placing me down?'' Medusa - However so as to not risk any more diplomatic upsets these warriors will be received through the Aurfaust military company in Borealis.

Medusa places Crispy down as he tidied himself up.

Medusa - It will appear as if these soldiers are merely mercenaries. Crispy - Smart move, I wouldn't want to upset relations between the Tyranny and the Brood if there is any. Medusa - In addition, come outside, I must show you something.

Crispy nods and smiles, standing beside her. They stand on the volcanic planet, with temperatures of several hundred degrees centigrade.

Medusa - Pick a mountain, any mountain in the distance.

Crispy looks over the distance and picks the tallest mountain in the distance.

Crispy - That one, there.

Medusa nods and soon a Dominatus Annihilator Ultima comes up.

Medusa - ''This is Peratrabion, the leader of the force I am giving to you, a Dominatus Annihilator Ultima, one of the most elite of our soldiers. What you are about to see is a demonstration of a weapon only some Dominatus of his rank have, the product of countless years and sporebucks spent on weapons development.'' Crispy - I get the feeling I shall be impressed. Medusa - Peratrabion, fire the Bosonic Obliterator at the mountain range, ball mode.

At that Peratrabion fires, and in a split second it appears that a sphere of radius 100 meters disappears from the mountain.

Medusa - ''This is the most advanced and rarest weapon we have ever built. It will help you banish your enemies, at Peratrabion's hands. Any particle with mass is as good as dead if that thing is fired at it. I believe that brings our meeting to a conclusion.'' Crispy - ''Impressive, very impressive. It has been an honour Medusa.'' Medusa - Likewise

At that she shakes hands with Crispy. Crispy accepts the handshake.

Medusa - When will the shipments of the blueprints arrive I may ask? Crispy - ''You shall have them within several hours. My fleet is nearby.'' Medusa - Thank you very much.

Crispy turns to leave, but he stops halfway.

Medusa - Yes?

Crispy chuckles for a second and looks away from her.

Crispy - ''I regret stopping that kiss. A woman like you...heh, may luck be at your side. It seems you may be losing your touch.'' Medusa - You are the exception Crispy, not the rule Crispy - ''I see. Heh, who knows, after I take over the Brood we may meet again.'' Medusa - Perhaps.

Crispy proceeds to leave the planet, leaving Medusa behind, with a devious smile upon his face. Medusa went inside and walked over to a screen, and opened up a comms link, talking with her father, Tyranny Abaddon Heimdall.

Medusa - ''It appears that the operation was successfully, we will now have Shidium weaponry. This man however, is different from the others, he matches my wile and deception. His logic and practical intelligence are as sharp as a scalpel, and he prevented me from making the most perfect of deals. The Tyranny must watch for this, as it may either be a benefit or a threat to our existence. I must find a way to beat him at his own game, some day. That will be all, goodbye father.''

With that, she exited the comms screen to resume her business and await the arrival of the blueprints for the Shidium weaponry. Crispy, meanwhile, remained silent as he rested in his throne in the navigation room.

Kharnes - Crispy, you seem awfully quiet... Crispy - Hmm, I am just thinking. Kharnes - About that cursed alien woman? Crispy - ''Medusa? Hmph, she is...not even a challenge for me. She attempted to seduce me...I managed to outwit her and get 300 soldiers in the process, in exchange for our technology.'' Kharnes - ''Crispy...How did you outwit her? Did you engage in...intimate acts?'' Crispy - Almost Kharnes, almost...

The fleet began to move away from Tyranny territory, beginning to approach their own territory, consisting of many dozens of planets.

Blood Sisters
Kalcedia walked alongside four soldiers, who were equipped with Shidium weaponry and were wearing slim power suits which would grant them extra mobility and agility. Kalcedia's rifle, her beloved Sinidaarl, was nowhere to be seen, and Kalcedia was unarmed. She was at the mercy of these soldiers, the Dark Sorority. She was approaching the navigation room of the Impure Rose, while growling in anger.

Kalcedia - Bitches...You shall all pay for getting in my way... Soldier - ''Silence, whore! You are not permitted to speak while upon this ship without the authorization of Mistress!'' Kalcedia - ''I'll say whatever I like! You can't stop me!''

The soldier responded by turning around and headbutting Kalcedia, crest meeting crest. Kalcedia staggered but the soldier looked unharmed, despite blood dripping out of her left nostril. She looked to Kalcedia with an expression of disgust as they continued towards the navigation room. The Sorority soldiers were hardened warriors, attractive yet ferocious and violent, as well as well-equipped with enhanced Shidium weapons, transformed to suit their standards and needs, enhanced. Kalcedia was indeed in trouble somewhat, as their suits would allow the Sorority soldiers to move faster than most other Zazane, with their suits connected into their spine and nervous system. These suits were their new bodies, these suits were their skin, and they would move comfortably in it just as any other creature would in its own skin. Finally the doors to the navigation room opened. Kalcedia could see the ship's pilots sitting at their station, as well as several elite guard and a Zazane female wearing a suit similar to those that the others were wearing, although with some enhancements.

Kalcedia - Who are you--

Kalcedia was beaten in the head again by the same soldier and her gun. Kalcedia growled viciously and attempted to strike, but the soldier launched her knee into Kalcedia's side.

Soldier - You shall not display such vile and obnoxious behaviour in Mistress' presence!

Kalcedia was forced to stand and she looked at the Zazane. Lichiatt looked down at Kalcedia, and as she did, a twisted smile began to spread across her face. Sharp teeth, several of them made of Shidium metal. Lichiatt quietly began to cackle.

Lichiatt - Stand down, soldiers...Let her have some space.

The soldiers looked to each other and stepped away from Kalcedia. Kalcedia took a step forward, provoking the nearby soldiers but they would do nothing.

Kalcedia - Who are you...? Lichiatt - ''What? Don't you remember me?'' Kalcedia - Can't say I recall your face, not that anybody would want to anyway. Lichiatt - Ah Kalcedia, you haven't changed.

Kalcedia snarled and clenched her fist, tensing as she mentioned her name.

Kalcedia - How do you know my name? Lichiatt - ''It's quite hard for me to forget. Unfortunately.'' Kalcedia - ''I'll ask again, who are you? And how do you know my name?''

Lichiatt's smile turned into a look of frustration or annoyance. She sighed, resting her head in her hand as she slumped in her throne, while Kalcedia raised her fist angrily. The soldiers aimed their weapons in preparation, yelling and barking orders to each other as Kalcedia took another angry step forward, causing some cracks in the floor.

Kalcedia - Who the hell are you?! Lichiatt - ''Don't tell me you've caught amnesia! How do you not remember me?!'' Kalcedia - I've never seen you before! Lichiatt - Well, Kalcedia, we're going to have to fix that!

Kalcedia let out an agitated roar. Within the space of a few seconds, her sniper rifle, Sinidaarl, manifested out of her flesh and she held the weapon tightly, before aiming it straight at Lichiatt's head. The surrounding soldiers were now really ready to fire upon Kalcedia, charging their weapons. Lichiatt, however, smiled again, her claws scraping against the arms of the throne. One soldier attempted approaching her, only to have her horn ripped away from her head by Kalcedia within an instant. The soldier cried out in pain as blood gushed out from the wound, while Kalcedia kept a focussed eye on Lichiatt, who didn't seem so intimidated as her soldiers.

Kalcedia - Tell me who you are, before I place a round square between your eyes! Lichiatt - Go ahead, shoot me!

With that, Kalcedia fired. The bullet exited reality, before materializing right in front of Lichiatt's head. Time seemed to slow down as the moment passed, with soldiers beginning to fire their guns. Lichiatt, however, moved her head out of the way, and leaped from her throne as the bullet exploded within the space of a second. Kalcedia's eyes widened, an expression of awe upon her face. Within that moment, Kalcedia's mind fazed out, another flashback approaching...

It was Kalcedia again. However, this time, there was no boy from before. Instead, a female Zazane, hostile. Armed with daggers, Kalcedia and her opponent went at each other fiercely. As they ran, Kalcedia felt a sharp pain across her shoulder; the enemy's dagger had made its way past her scales and delivered a wound. The enemy Zazane smirked as she did, Kalcedia's dagger barely missing her side. Her blood splattered on her enemy's chest as Kalcedia staggered on her feet. Her enemy looked at Kalcedia's blood on her chest and smiled, her tongue poking out from her lips and licking the blood off in a somewhat sensual manner. Kalcedia smirked, quickly turning around and throwing the dagger in her hand. It flew through the air as it spun forward, the blade glimmering in the light. The dagger's edge lodged itself into her enemy's chest, causing her blood to spit out as the wound was made.

Kalcedia - ''Face it, you'll die here today! You will fall to your knees and beg for your survival!''

Her enemy snarled and grabbed the dagger's hilt. She pulled the blade out of her chest quickly, causing more blood to spill out. However, the enemy was not so concerned about the wound, and narrowed her eyes at Kalcedia, a smile on her face.

Enemy - ''A mere cut and you proclaim victory? Stupid girl, the battle only ends when the opponent is dead!'' Kalcedia - Then this shall end quickly!

Kalcedia ran at her opponent, her claws outstretched. The enemy held her dagger tightly, before swinging it towards Kalcedia's direction. The dagger's blade caused a scratch against Kalcedia's horn, while Kalcedia tackled her enemy to the ground, her claws digging into the enemy's sides. The dagger was dropped, and Kalcedia sat up, throwing her fists towards the enemy's fists for a few moments, before her enemy clawed into Kalcedia's snout, giving her an opportunity to punch her off. Kalcedia was knocked back but quickly stood up, as did her enemy. Both of them, an angry yet satisfying look in their eye, as if they are gaining pleasure from the fighting between them, which wouldn't be too far from the truth.

Kalcedia - You're good... Enemy - ''Flattery will get you nowhere, bitch!  Kalcedia - It's not flattery, it's me saying you're good while I am perfect!'' Enemy - ''Ha! Overstatement of the millennium!'' Kalcedia - ''Oh really? Allow me to show you my strength!''

With that, Kalcedia leaped into the air, towards her opponent. Her enemy only looked on in surprise, which soon turned to shock as Kalcedia landed in front of her. Kalcedia dug her sharp teeth into her enemy's neck, causing a great deal of pain and blood spill. After letting out a pained gasp, the enemy growled and did the same, biting into Kalcedia's neck ferociously. Blood dripped from their necks as they danced a dance of bloodshed, grappling each other in an attempt to throw the other one off. Standing in the doorway, a black Zazane. The boy, who had appeared in her previous visions. He watched on with a smile and a hopeful look in his eye, although for who is unknown.

Kalcedia blinked as the flashback finished in an instant. She gasped and quietly uttered a word, loud enough for Lichiatt to hear.

Kalcedia - ...Lichiatt...

Lichiatt smirked and then approached Kalcedia within a flash, as if she teleported. She looked down at Kalcedia, grabbing the arm that held Sinidaarl and raised it above her head. Lichiatt smiled twistedly and and licked her lips slowly.

Kalcedia - ''You...bitch! You stole him from me!'' Lichiatt - ''He was always mine! Always, until you showed up and ruined my chance! I was forced to take him from you!'' Kalcedia - Liar!

Lichiatt snarled and grabbed ahold of Kalcedia's breast plate, before tearing it in half, exposing part of her chest much to Kalcedia's shock. What's more, Lichiatt clenched her clawed hand and, faster than a bullet, punched Kalcedia's breast. Kalcedia stood for a second before blood erupted out of her mouth, and she gasped for air. The force of the punch devastated her body, causing her to slump down onto her knees in agonizing pain. Despite being partially polymorph, she still experienced pain throughout her physical body, and the punch was like getting hit with a cannon ball, so much intense power and speed, gathered all into one punch. However, Kalcedia knew the fist was fuelled with hate and anger, resent and burning desire. This was what hurt her the most. Lichiatt looked down at Kalcedia gasping and wheezing in pain, before returning to her throne, which had a large chunk taken out of it by the bullet from earlier.

Lichiatt - ''Place her inside the prison. I want personnel watching her at all times. Do not let her out of your sight, otherwise, there shall be consequences.''

Meeting the Victim
Kryptkor walked through a corridor within the palace. He had returned from taking Crispy back to Insurrection, his words floating in Kryptkor's mind. Was Tyraz really the tyrant that Crispy claimed him to be? Would he put Kryptkor's empire and people at risk? Tyraz had saved his people from the pirates in Borealis, but what about now? Had Kryptkor made the wrong decision with joining the Brood after all...?

He approached a moderately sized metal door. The corridor was quiet, except for strange sounds of sobbing and coughing which made Kryptkor curious, yet a little sad himself. He knocked on the door, and the sobbing and coughing stopped after a few seconds. Kryptkor stood patiently before the door was opened. Ravir Rokl, the Master of the Fleet. He was one of the greatest fleet commanders within the Brood of War and Fleet of Ruin. Ravir was often said to be a strong figure, a man of great intelligence and strength, whose piloting skills could match those of even machines and AI. He was said to be a fast thinker, a proud speaker, and a good man to all of his personnel, who are honoured to be under his service. A man of legend, whose clan had been expert pilots and commanders for many eons, with no generation ever failing the cause of the Zazane race. Indeed, Ravir was a highly respected figure, so respected that he had a place as a member of theCouncil, and the title of Master of the Fleet and the Ruin Commander.

Sniffling with tears rolling down his eyes, Ravir looked at Kryptkor with a sad expression. The Master of the Fleet, the Ruin Commander, reduced to a snivelling wreck. Kryptkor's eyes widened as he look at Ravir, who was trying desperately not to break into tears again.

Kryptkor - Ravir...? Ravir - Oh, h-hello Kryptkor...W-What brings you h-here? Kryptkor - I was just visiting about...Are you okay, Ravir? Ravir - ''Huh? M-Me...? ...W-Why wouldn't I be...?'' Kryptor - ''Well, you're crying, for starters. And you don't look well...You haven't been looking well for the past few weeks.'' Ravir - Oh, yes...I g-guess you're right...Uhh, please, come in, don't want you standing around.

Ravir moved out of the way for Kryptkor, who stepped inside the room. Ravir's quarters were small, not a room for a member of the Council, unless of course Ravir requested such. On the wall, a long scroll, written in blood that has since dried. For a scroll to be written in blood showed the subject of the writing was indeed very important or meant a lot to a particular person. Kryptkor's eyes narrowed at the scroll, wondering why it would be here of all places. Ravir tried not to look at it as he closed the door, standing in front of it weakly.

Ravir - Kryptkor...w-would you like a seat? Kryptkor - ''There is no need, Ravir. You take a seat.''

Ravir nodded slowly and walked over to a chair at his desk. Kryptkor looked at the scroll on the wall and he pointed.

Kryptkor - What is that?

Ravir lifted his head and looked to Kryptkor.

Ravir - ''Hmm? What is what?'' Kryptkor - ''That scroll. What's it for?''

Ravir sighed sadly, sounding a little upset and tired. He stood up weakly and slowly, before standing beside Kryptkor.

Ravir - It's for my younger brother.

Kryptkor's eyes widened and he tilted his head before looking at Ravir.

Kryptkor - I never knew you had a younger brother, Ravir. Ravir - ''Ijja Rokl, he was the most important people in my life. Or at least, one of them.''

Ravir sighed and he sat back at his desk. Kryptkor began to read the scroll. The writing looks as if it had been a struggle to put down on the material, perhaps Ravir had wrote this? As Kryptkor read the scroll, he felt a pain inside of him, looking back at Ravir.

Kryptkor - What happned...to him, if you don't mind me asking? Ravir - He was...

Ravir sighed before quietly speaking.

Ravir - ''He died, fighting under Tyraz's order during the days of the Zazane Empire. He was a fleet commander, a proud warrior. Merciless, efficient, strong, dedicated. And what's more, caring. He was there for me...I also served as a commander during the conflict against the empire known as the BNSC.''

Kryptkor had not heard of this empire before, but it wasn't important to him.

Ravir - ''Ijja was there for me...before the Great Migration. My wife and child...both of them were taken by a plague that struck throughout Zazane territories. Some said it was a bio-weapon launched by the lesser races under the Empire's control...Anyway, after our relatives were taken from us, all we had was each other. Side by side, he cared for me, I cared for him. He helped...repair me, in a way. ''

Kryptkor sat down and paid attention to Ravir's story. Ravir sighed and took a drink from a cylindrical device, filled with liquid. Kryptkor looked at the cylinder and tilted his head at it, wondering what was inside of it. Ravir coughed painfully, before looking at Kryptkor, with an expression of grief on his face.

Ravir - ''When Ijja died, his body was sent back to the Zazane Empire. And you want to know what happened?'' Kryptkor - ''What happened, Ravir?  Ravir - His body...Tyraz gained his new powers around the time, he wanted to experiment. So...he weaponized and mobilized the corpses of the dead. He would not grant the dead peace.''

Kryptkor sat back in his seat, a shocked look upon his face, an expression of disbelief. Ravir looked away, taking another sip of his drink. Kryptkor was speechless; would Tyraz really do that? Would Tyraz use the dead for his own usage? He really was no better than his brother, the one who used the exact same methods to terrorise the Universe, using the dead against the living in an attempt to cause panic and terror.

Ravir - ''My brother...was his special subject. He was nigh invincible, but...he was not the same. Ijja became an irredeemable weapon of morphing flesh, a monster more than man...In the end, it failed, and Tyraz resorted to gassing the planet. He provoked its core, causing earthquakes and magma eruptions on the surface. Thousands of women, children and men were either crushed, melted or suffocated. Millions, billions. Because Tyraz couldn't take losing.'' Kryptkor - ''That is...disgusting. He really did that?  Ravir - ...Zazane are warriors, it is our purpose to hurt and wage war, to shed blood...but not like that...A Zazane's purpose in his life is to fight and hurt. Tyraz...he does this in the most vile way possible...He weaponizes the dead, kills billions of innocents and gives up his own morals and life in favour of...power.''

Ravir coughed again and dropped the cylinder. Black liquid spat out of Ravir's jaw, landing on his desk. Kryptkor's expression of disgust turned to concern and he looked at Ravir quickly as he spat up the black liquid. It was like a mix of blood and phlegm, all over the desk. Ravir held his chest in pain, a tear streaming down his cheek. Kryptkor reached a hand over.

Kryptkor - ''Ravir, Ravir! Are you okay?'' Ravir - Uargh...Urgh...K-Kryptkor...You what depression does to a Zazane...?

Kryptkor shook his head slowly, picking up the cylinder off the ground.

Ravir - ''It kills us...Our emotion of sadness is felt as anger, our emotion of happiness and excitement...but sometimes this fails and we end up feeling the depression...I do not grieve only for my brother...but for everybody who has died under the reign of Tyraz or Moxix. Don't let your people become one of those I grieve for...'' Kryptkor - Why would I do that? Ravir - Tyraz...they are part of his Brood...he controls them through y-you... Kryptkor - They are still my people! Ravir - No! They are his so long as they live under him!

Kryptkor blinked and stared, holding Ravir's cylinder in his hands. Ravir looked at the cylinder before slowly looking back up at Kryptkor, a sad look in his tearies eyes, as if he had seen his brother's death himself. As if everything had been taken from him and all he was left with was his position in rank and politics. This meant nothing to Ravir, not anymore. He had no family, no friends to associate with, nobody to relate to. He was alone.

Ravir - Have a d-drink, Kryptkor...

Kryptkor looked at the cylinder and then placed it to his mouth. The liquid inside, it tasted exotic, alien. But it was good, it left a nice feeling inside his mouth. He closed his eyes and drank for a few more seconds, before parting it away from his muzzle. He licked his snout with his tongue and he smiled.

Kryptkor - ...It tastes good. Ravir - ''It's a beverage...from the Imperium. A gift from a friend of mine who works within the Imperium, as a weapons crafter.  Kryptkor - ...Alcohol?'' Ravir - Yes...

Ravir stretched out an arm and Kryptkor passed the cylinder to him. Ravir sighed and looked away, still feeling upset and depressed. He coughed again, more of that liquid erupting from his mouth and out of his nostrils.

Kryptkor - Ravir...I... Ravir - J-Just go Kryptkor...You don't w-want to waste you day on me, I-I'll be fine...

Kryptkor nodded and patted Ravir's shoulder, before walking over to the door and opening it. He walked through and closed it quietly, before walking across the corridor again. He could hear sobbing and coughing, though he didn't need to ask the question. It was obvious who it was.

Collaboration
Crispy sat on his throne patiently, Kharnes standing beside him as he examined a large butchering blade. Crispy smiled as he waited, while Kharnes was getting impatient. The large Zazane swung his butchering blade out of boredom, just missing Crispy's cheek. The black Zazane turned his head and smiled at Kharnes, standing up out of his throne. Kharnes impatient expression turned to one of worry as Crispy approached him.

Crispy - Kharnes, I know you're a friend and all, but I'll advise you not to swing a massive blade by my head without good reason... Kharnes - ''My apologies, Crispy. I just hope that little runt hurries up!'' Crispy - That's not the point Kharnes, you almost sliced my face in half.

Kharnes' expression turned to anger and he growled aggressively, to which Crispy just folded his arms and snickered. Kharnes hated being told what he had done wrong, mainly because it was either an accident on his end or because he knew what he was doing. Kharnes gripped the blade tightly and raised it out of anger. However, Kharnes just stood still, looking to him with a red gleam in his eye.

Kharnes - ''Grah! It was an accident!'' Crispy - You raise your blade against me? Kharnes - ''Urgh...no. I don't.''

Kharnes lowered his blade, but before he could place it away, a fist out of nowhere launched Kharnes onto his back. Crispy stood over him, a smile on his face as he chuckled, before offering a hand down to Kharnes. Kharnes growled and batted Crispy's hand away, to which Crispy's smile turned to a disgusted frown. He turned away, walking back over to his throne as Kharnes stood, brushing himself off and wiping some blood away from his nostril. Crispy grunted as Kharnes walked back to his side.

Crispy - Kharnes, don't ever swing a blade near my head again. Kharnes - I shan't, you scumbag!

Crispy chuckled at Kharnes' remark, which Kharnes soon also smiled. Suddenly, Crispy was alerted of an incoming transmission. He turned his head to a holographic viewing screen and chuckled, pressing a button on the screen. A window was opened, with Kryptkor looking at Crispy through it, a sad expression on his face. Kharnes turned his head to the holo-screen and grunted, his breathing becoming a little more heavy as he saw the Zazane's face.

A few minutes before, Kryptkor found himself in his own quarters, onboard his ship. He was contemplating what he was soon to do. He didn't want to see his people suffer like Ravir, he didn't want to lose those close to him. Yet, he knew if he did this, he would lose the chance of being with his interest of affections; Keldar Taran. He also knew there would be a chance him and Tyraz would come to conflict, he was effectively betraying the Brood in favour for the Golden Movement. Kryptkor sighed heavily, a tear running down his cheek.

Kryptkor - Why...How have I been deceived so easily...A king of liars, he decepted me and my kind to join his cause...Tyraz, why must you torment your people like you do...

Kryptkor sighed and picked up a communicator, activating a holo-screen functioning on an unknown channel. After a minute or so, he was patched through to the Insurrection's leader. He wiped away his tears and gathered the strength to talk, while Crispy smiled at the Borealis Zazane, the king of his kind.

Crispy - Hello, who is this? Kryptkor - Greetings...this is Kryptkor Talsar. Crispy - ''Oooh, hello Kryptkor. So eager to talk to me yet again?'' Kryptkor - Yes, I...wanted to tell you something.

Crispy leaned forward in his seat and placed a hand to his chin, pretending to be curious and unknowing.

Crispy - ''Oh? A game of secrets on a private channel?''

It took some struggle but after a moment, Kryptkor looked at Crispy in the eye and spoke boldly.

Kryptkor - I want you to know that I'm on your side for now on. Crispy - Kryptkor Talsar, did I really just hear those words come out from your mouth? Kryptkor - Yes...I've made my decision.

Kryptkor looked to his side downwards, while Crispy smiled deviously. A member of the Council, now serving his side as an ally. This was what Crispy was hoping for, things will soon start collapsing for Tyraz. The Brood's government would collapse in on itself, making it vulnerable. The Council will be split in political conflict, allowing a move to be made by Crispy if he so wished it.

Crispy - ''What did I tell you, Kryptkor? Tyraz's true colours are finally being realized.'' Kryptkor - Anything you need, any help you require, you can count on me. Crispy - ''Is that so...? So you're pledging full loyalty to my cause?'' Kryptkor - Yes... Crispy - So, what will you plan to do when Tyraz finds out?

Kryptkor spoke up with a tone of confidence, or anger. He was determined to keep his people from falling under the influence of Tyraz.

Kryptkor - ''I'm leaving the Brood. I'm getting the planets where my Borealis kin live and declaring independance.'' Crispy - ''That's a bold move. You realize that if you attack Brood planets, the Insurrection cannot be held responsible?'' Kryptkor - ''I'm not attacking anymore. Which is why I'm only taking Borealis Zazane worlds with me.'' Crispy - ''Right. But be prepared to have the Brood on your tail. Tyraz will probably kill you for this.'' Kryptkor - ''I'd like to see him try. I'm not afraid of Tyraz.'' Crispy - Not even after all the horrid tales of what he has done? Kryptkor - No. You cannot scare me with tales of murder and destruction, because I have been part of all this in the past. Crispy - ''Fair enough. It shall be good to have you serving our side Kryptkor. Good luck in your travels.'' Kryptkor - Good luck to you, Crispy...

Kryptkor then exited out of the channel. He sighed heavily, knowing that now he has made his decision, he cannot go back. He would be Tyraz's enemy, he knew he had to do something to save his own people. If Tyraz could not even look after his own, what would make Kryptkor believe Tyraz is right for leading the Borealis Zazane? Nothing would, not now. Suddenly, there was an angry knocking at his door. Kryptkor lifted his head, his tone and expression changed to more casual.

Kryptkor - Who is it?

The door was slammed open. Storming in was an enraged Keldar Taran, an expression of anger and rage on her face, which scared Kryptkor somewhat. However, he kept his composure and sighed.

Kryptkor - Oh...hello. Keldar - So, is that it...you're going to declare independance? Kryptkor - Were you spying at me? Keldar - I was coming to see if you were okay, you were acting strange all day... Kryptkor - ''Hmpf. If you really want to know, yes I am leaving the Brood. I'm getting tired of all this.'' Keldar - ''Tired of what? The riots?'' Kryptkor - The riots, the senseless violence...Tyraz's incompetence... Keldar - This is Crispy's planning! Kryptkor - ''Crispy has shown me what Tyraz really is. He has shown me things I was not yet aware of.'' Keldar - And you're better with your history as a pirate? Kryptkor - I did not bring a man's brother from the dead to turn him into a weapon!

Keldar grunted and looked away for a moment, remembering that the exact same event made her declare independence from the old Zazane Empire before it was reformed. She sighed, remembering that she was forced to fight her own kin for going against Tyraz's word. However, she looked back at Kryptkor.

Keldar - Urgh...Times have changed since then! Kryptkor - At first I though he was a hero, but I see now that he's just a broken, weak shadow of a Zazane. Keldar - ''Kryptkor! He saved your people from that tyrant in Borealis! How can you turn your back on him so easily?'' Kryptkor - ''I don't want to move from one tyrant to another. Tyraz does not care for us or for our opinions, Keldar.'' Keldar - But he has kept us alive during Andromeda's time of war by uniting our race! Kryptkor - ''This union is not working. These rebellions are proof!''

Keldar remained silent, and she looked down. Kryptkor sighed and turned his head away from her, not wanting to look at her anymore. He was too upset, emotionally devastated. After a few minutes of silence, Kryptkor spoke up.

Kryptkor - I don't want conflicts with you...just let me go. Keldar - Kryptkor...The Brood will hunt you down on the crime of treachery. Kryptkor - ''I care not. I prefer to be a traitor than to lead my people to more oppression.'' Keldar - ''If that is your choice, then I cannot persuade you otherwise. Goodbye, Kryptkor...'' Kryptkor - Goodbye...be sure to know that I wish no ill for you...I just wish for what's best for my people. Keldar - I understand Kryptkor, but make no mistake, the next we meet it shall be nowhere near as sympathetic as now. Kryptkor - I'm afraid so. Keldar - It is a shame intimacy was never explored between us...oh well, such is the way of life as a warrior. Kryptkor - Well, such acts were forbidden by Tyraz anyway... Keldar - Yes...I shall keep this secret until you declare your independence Kryptkor - ''So be it. Now, please, leave my room. I'm going to prepare myself.'' Keldar - ''Of course, traitor. ''

With the usage of a teleportation device, she left the room. Kryptkor sighed and placed his head in his hands, beginning to sob. He would be without this woman from now on, except as an enemy. He wished no ill for her, he didn't want to fight her, but he knew that in the end, fate would bring her forward as an enemy he must be forced to fight, maybe even kill. While this was going on, Crispy watched as his fleet passed by Imperial territory.

Crispy - ''Ahh, such is the way of politics...A shame that Kryptkor shall no longer be able to come close with the beautiful rose of his life. Oh well, he is now my ally...''

Kharnes looked to Crispy and tilted his head, approaching him.

Kharnes - Crispy, it could be a...

Crispy laughed to interrupt him, to which Kharnes responded with a grunt.

Crispy - ''You think this is a trap? Kryptkor wouldn't have the strength. He is emotionally wrecked, he hates Tyraz. He would never go back to him.''

Crispy walked back to his throne and rested, sighing contently before another holo-screen appeared. A message was being sent from the Imperium. Crispy sat up straight and pressed a button on the screen to accept the message, to which a holograph of Taremanon Valocanus appeared, smiling deviously.

Crispy - ''Ah, Taremanon! What a pleasure to see you again.'' Taremnon - ''And you as well. The Praetors have been lapping up the information you gave me on Tyraz.'' Crispy - ''Is that so? Heh, and what is their reaction?'' Taremnon - ''Outrage. I did weve a little white lie about Tyraz being an influencer to House Ultanos but... what is politics without a little deceit here-and-there?'' Crispy - For the most part Taremanon...you are probably right. Taremanon - ''Uriel however is unimpressed. While he accepted what I told him it would take more than a few revealed secrets to split them.'' Crispy - What else do you expect...from a puppet of Tyraz?

Taremanon raised an eyebrow with a sudden change of expression on his face, displaying some confusion.

Taremanon - ''You mean.... My lie might not have been so false?'' Crispy - ''Taremanon, are you blind? Uriel chose to believe that demon rather than his real friend and a member of his own kind!'' Taremanon - I'm not sure what Uriel sees in him, but it doesn't appear to be anything I am aware of! Crispy - ''Tyraz's influence spreads not just across the Brood...but also into the Imperium and Divinarium, through his close relations with the Paragon and Clericarch. For all we know, the whole of House Ultanos is plagued with Tyraz's filth and the religious worships of the Divinarium tainted.'' Taremanon - ''That would mean Tyraz has controlling influence over all the highlords... that's impossible! It can't be true. Surely other members of the Light would have noticed something unless...''

Crispy spoke before he could finish, sitting back calmly in his throne as he did.

Crispy - ''He managed to gain control of the Guardians of Light very easily. Would you entrust a man with a history of insanity and demonic powers with the most powerful army in the galaxy?'' Taremanon - Hmm, no. Crispy - ''The other Highlords are mere puppets to Tyraz. A way of influence.'' Taremanon - I will not allow my species or my home to be tainted with his filth after we all fought tooth-and-claw to save it from ruin. Crispy - Thousands of years of developement, conflict and effort...all of it could turn to ruin within a matter of years if Tyraz continues. Taremanon - ''This must be brought to the attention of the praetors. And I would like you to be the deliverer of this.'' Crispy - You would like me to see the Praetors? Taremanon - ''I am inviting what houses I can to a meeting at a certain venue in the mid-rim. I would like you to be the guest of honour.''

Crispy smiled contently, knowing this would be his chance to gain more influence within the Imperium. A chance to speak to the Praetors who already distrusted Tyraz by now, this could cripple both Tyraz and the Paragon at the same time.

Crispy - ''Taremanon, it would be my honour. A visit to this venue as well as speaking to your Praetors would be my pleasure.'' Taremanon - I'm forwarding the coordinates to you now, however it appears that Domestic Security is aware of you. Crispy - Oh? Taremanon - It's only a warning, they are not going to arrest you on sight. Crispy - ''I see. Well, thank you for the alert. I shall be there soon.'' Taremanon - ''I will meet you there. Atendants outside the venue will guide you inside. Good day.'' Crispy - It shall be.

Taremanon's hologram disappeared and Crispy stood up, smiling. Kharnes looked to Crispy with a smirk. Everything was falling into place for Crispy and the Insurrection. The Golden Movement's campaign is now in full-swing, the Golden Unifier is making his move to cripple the mighty Lord Councillor as well as the supposedly corrupted Paragon. The puzzle is coming together...

Second Impressions
Taremanon had invited Crispy to a building within the Imperium's inner-rim territories. he had asked the Zazane to visit discreetly. After being ferried through a medium-sized city disguised as an Imperium-aligned Zazane, Crispy met Taremannon behind what apepared to be an auditorium within a theatere in an older part of the city. Seeing the praetor Crispy smiled. From the other side of a curtain he coulld hear the chatter of draconis who had gathered within the auditorium today.

Crispy - ''Ah, hello again. sir!'' Taremanon - ''Hello again. I have to say you have been of tremendous help for opening my eyes. To return the favour I would like you to meet the nobles who support your goals.'' Crispy - My words have reached the ears of nobles? Taremanon - ''Every praetor in the Imperium has become aware of Tyraz's true nature. Nervous?'' Crispy - I am always prepared, sir. For the best and worst. Taremaon - ''Now that I like to hear! One moment.''

Taremanon straightened himself as a speaker finished talking and he walked though the curtain. he stood on a stage for several minutes talking with the audience abotu that night's meeting. Eventually, Crispy clearly heard Taremanon's finishing words and he smiled.

Taremanon - ''Esteemed praetors, I give you the man responsible for opening our eyes. I have yaet to gai nhis true name... Crispy.''

Crispy chuckled and stepped forward through the curtain. The room adjacant was a medium-sized auditorium and Draconis of all colours clapped rhythmicly as he approached a podium. Taremanon joined in as he stepped to the side and looked at the praetors with a smile.

Crispy - ''Hello, dear Praetors! Well, it is an honour to be here today, in the presence of the Imperium's praetors. And it is even more of an honour that you wish to hear me speak.'' Taremanon - Your words sparked a revolution. With it, House Ultanos may be seeing it's last days.'' Praetor - Not even the Second House War and House Khaxvis were enough to dislodge it, they have ruled far longer than any other house. Crispy - ''Ah, revolution! Voldiaark! Denruta! Yes, a time of change is upon us. A time of change where our corrupt and secretive, conniving leaders are finally being pushed out of their undeserving thrones!'' Praetor - ''The time of Ultanos should have passed long ago. It is time for a new house to rise!'' Crispy - ''As with the changing of the Houses, a new age for the Brood arises alongside! I have been fighting against Tyraz, the treacherous, immoral demon!'' Praetor - ''We have heard of his deeds. This "holy shadow war" was a blight on the Imperium. We lost trillions of lives to it!'' Crispy - ''He has corrupted Ultanos further, he has even brought times of death upon your Imperium. The Holy Shadow War, the re-emergence and empowerment of House Khaxvis! What good has come of his presence?'' Several Praetors - Nothing!''

At their empassioned reply, a blue draconis stood up who was a high-ranking representetive of House Korlonis. Taremanon leaned close to crispy as the noble stood up.

Korlonis Praetor - Have you all forgotten what good the relation between our paragon and the Brood has done? Taremanon - He is of House Korlonis, they are joined to House Valocanus and are supporters of His Majesty's efforts. Crispy - ''Hmph, all leaders have their 'good' times. But the Lord Councillor? He was not your saviour! No, your 'saviour' was a man who gave up his own mortality to become a vicious beast! He is no slayer of false gods, he is the monster of a dark god! A god of war!''

This caused mutterings among the praetors. the standing praetor growled slightly.

Korlonis Praetor - The Book of Divine Teachings says "If one accepts what he did in the past, then he is prepared to forgive himself for the future". Crispy - ''Forgive himself? You believe that Tyraz Breek, the son of a womaniser, the brother of an undead nightmare, the father of a dark messiah, even has the RIGHT to forgive himself?'' Savenium Praetor - ''I have spoken to Uriel himself. The 'demon' constantly seeks forgiveness but has doubts that can be done.'' Taremanon - Every attempt that monster has done has only caused misery and suffering for someone else. Crispy - ''The demon craves your pity! He wants your pity and sorrow, so he can work his way into your heart and feelings! He has commited crimes deemed unforgiveable. He has weaponized and mobilized the dead, he has massacred billions of innocents in a burning fire of hate! And your Paragon sides with this man?'' Taremanon - ''Drakon asks us to be servant to no god or demon. We rule our own destiny and by accepting Tyraz's leadership we defy his teachings.'' Crispy - ''This man now has the strongest army in Andromeda at his burning claw. Imagine what he can do with it! What need does he have of you, the Imperium, anymore?'' Praetor - ''The Zazane is right. Our paragon has lost all his senses, surely the senate will understand why he must step down.'' Crispy - ''What good has your Paragon done? He has condemned you ALL by granting the position of Grandmaster upon Tyraz! He has allied you, against your will, with an immortal, demonic barbarian! An emotional vampire, he feasts of your pity and sorrow, so you shall serve him!'' Praetor - ''We shall serve no demon! Uriel has lost his mind by listening to the creature.'' Crispy - ''The Inquisition had this man on their target list. The Inquisition! Does that not raise enough concern?'' Praetor - ''House Ultanos has ruled with wisdom and justice... but even they are only so strong. Uriel became blind, he has disgraced his ancestors and disgraced the teachings.'' Crispy - ''Uriel is but a madman now. A lost cause. You would've thought he'd care for his people...And how does he show this? By allying you with an abomination! A bloodthirsty disgrace!''

With Crispy's empassioned words, the noise in the auditorium grew louder with furious nobles.

Praetor - Uriel the Ambitious *spits* Uriel the Naive more like! Crispy - ''Both our people have been led by false promises or manipulation. I say it is time we take a stand! We show these barely civilized creatures they do not rule us! If by force or by words, bloodthirsty men like Tyraz or naive fools like Uriel shall never be granted such authority over our galaxy! Our home!'' Senvinus Praetor - Nobles please. Ultanos have been wise so far. Does the entire house have to be barred from the throne?'' Crispy - ''I would not be surprised if Tyraz's foul taint has reached all the souls of Ultanos! He is not a man! He is a beast, a creature born from hellfire! Uriel has been corrupted, as has his children and lover! His...infectious influence spreads like a plague!'' Senvinus Praetor - Crispy, you must understand that as a fellow of a house known for science, i find it hard to believe Tyraz is actually a demon. Crispy - Have you SEEN the execution of sir Taremanon's nephew?! Senvinus - ''I did. But I am not so quick to call such feats 'magic' or 'divine'.'' Crispy - ''I would LOVE to see how you back up that execution! A man of hate transforms himself into a true demon and you say this is not the work of forces beyond your comprehension?'' Senvinus - ''The electricity could have been from arc projectors in his fingers. Augmented strength is very easy to do but changing size... hmm... Perhaps a utility fog of some sort?'' Crispy - ''How about you talk with Uriel, or the Inquisition, about Tyraz's power? After all, your Paragon and your High Inquisitor have witnessed his demonic traits first hand. He has turned men into ashes with a simple slash of his sword...If that is not the image of a conqueror from a hellish world of fire and darkness, then I don't know what is.'' Praetor - What kind of creature has Uriel exposed us all to?

This caused further mutterings amongst the audience.

Taremanon - ''Tyraz is more than a puppetmaster. He is a demon spawned from our nighmares with desires to subjugate both us and the entire galaxy. We must stand up to him!'' Crispy - And I suppose you all want to know the truth behind the execution of Taremanon's nephew?

Crispy looked at Taremanon who looked back at him as numerous praetors cried out aggresively for the answer. Cryspy's deception was convincing them all that Tyraz was a monster, and he was set to reveal the reason behind onew of the most controversial executions of the decade.

Crispy - ''A comment...A mere comment! Tyraz requested to be his executioner for a mere comment! About his size no less!'' Praetor - ''His size? What vanity is this!'' Taremanon - Officially, Tervos' death was out of becoming a turncoat duing the TIAF's assault. Crispy - ''That is what officials say, Taremanon. But with men like Tyraz influencing your Paragon...So that is the truth...Tervos was tortured to death in his final moments for a mere comment of size.'' Praetor - Surely the tribunal saw through this farce? Crispy - You think the tribunal wasn't scared of Tyraz? Praetor - If they had then Tervos would still be alive. Taremanon - The paragon, the courts, Uriel is no longer our leader, Tyraz is! Praetor - The demon must be expelled! Crispy - But...what do you plan to do about it?

Everyone stopped silent for a moment.

Crispy - ''Well, at best, you remove his influence. And how do you remove his influence in the Imperium?'' Praetor - Simply having Uriel replaced will not entirely cleans ue. Crispy - ''I am afraid that the Ultanos House has become compromised by Uriel's relations to Tyraz. You think you can risk having another Ultanos House member take the title of Paragon? Hell, the Brood allowed another member of the Breek family to take charge, and look what happened!'' Praetor - ''What of House Valocanus? They exposed the corruption.'' Crispy - ''I do not believe I have a say in who becomes your next Paragon, but...Taremanon, what do you think? Taremanon - ''If the praetors agree, I will gladly accept the position if chosen. But that is up for other members of the Grand Senate to decide.'' Crispy - ''We live in a galaxy of darkness, corruption and bloodshed. But we can change that.''

Taremanonstepped forward and opened his wings. He chanted the phrase "to new futures" and the others chanted exitedly with him.

Crispy - To a new dawn.

Crispy smiled and then stepped back as the audience cheered. As he passed though the curtain, Taremanon followed him backstage.

Taremanon was slowly clapping to him him with a large smile spreading across his snout.

Taremanon - Quite a speech. Crispy - Thank you, my father was the same way. Taremanon - Sometimes I wished this wasn't happening, but that bastard forced my hand. Crispy - You wish to sit idly by while the naive Paragon and the bloodthirsty Tyraz rule your Imperium?

Taremanon's smile turned to a scowl and he aggressivly stepped up to Cryspy to stare him down.

Taremanon - ''Be careful with your tongue around me, Zazane. Uriel may have slipped, but I still respect him for what he has done for this Imperium!'' Crispy - Of course, every ruler has his good moments. Taremanon - ''Uriel is still a hero. Even before he was paragon he risked his life for common citizens and he saved many billions from a fate worse than death in just 15 years. Can you say the same?'' Crispy - ''That's heroic, but I have no need to as I am keeping my people out of danger. But do not get the wrong idea, I would willingly give my life to save my people, whether they appreciate it or not. So long as my race still has the potential to thrive, my life still has purpose.''

Taremanon huffed as he backed down. he stepped back with a sigh.

Crispy - ''What is wrong, Taremanon? Are you having doubts?'' Taremanon - ''Like I said. It pains me to be doing this to an old friend.'' Crispy - ''I understand. But you must see now that he has become a tool of Tyraz's will. It is not Uriel's fault, but it is that of Tyraz.'' Taremanon - ''You're right. Uriel's favouratism has driven us apart. He would rather consult the wisom of an emotional stranger than a man he's known for decades.'' Crispy - ''The tyrant that was formerly Zazane has him under his grip and has corrupted him. Could you imagine what the Imperium would be like in a century or so's time? Conflicting Houses striving for war and the desire to bathe in each other's blood, like warriors in an arena!''

Hearing this, Taremanon seethed. He knew Draconis were martial, but Crispy described a killer's paradise.

Taremanon - Such an image, it would undo everything our ancestors strove to construct! Crispy - ''Would dignified and civilized people like the Draconis really enjoy being at war with each other? They would be no better than the Zazane of ancient times, under the control of Tyraz's ancestors! The story would be repeated on a grander scale!'' Taremanon - ''Such a vision... The galaxy would be set alight by their fury.'' Crispy - ''A galaxy at war and conflict, empires and races at each others throats, developing civilizations would be stomped out by the warring factions! Tyraz is every flaw of the Zazane made manifest, he represents all that is evil within our race.'' Taremanon - ''You make your point, Zazane. Uriel has already been corrupted by his posion, I will ensure that no others are infected.'' Crispy - ''Also, Khaxvis. They still remain as a stain in our galaxy, yet they hold some hatred towards Tyraz. What is your current view on the treacherous vermin?'' Taremanon - ''Those who turned against theri House's desires I can respect. The 'loyalists' should burn for their arrogance.'' Crispy - ''If you wish, I could try and locate the splintered Khaxvis and inform you of their locations. Whether you deem them able to return to Imperial society or not is up to you.'' Taremanon - I would prefer to see them all hanged for what they did but-- 'some' may hold merit. Crispy - Is that an order to eliminate them on sight? Taremanon - Unless they turn their backs on what that house stands for. Crispy - ''I see. Well, I shall finish the mess that Tyraz started. I assure you, this galaxy shall be purged of Khaxvis loyalist scum.'' Taremanon - Good.

Crispy turned away as he walked out of the backstage room. Before he left he turned back to Taremanon with a compassionate smile.

Crispy - ''Thanks for inviting me here tonight, Taremanon. I feel honoured to have been in the presence of the Praetors.'' Taremanon - I am sure they enjoyed your visit as well.

Taremanon smiled and returned behind the curtain to the auditorium. Crispy turned and walked a way, the smile upon his face soon became a grin as everything slowly came into place.