Fiction:Tzhrhokia/Part1

"This Galaxy has hit its peak of tolerance. We are being mocked, crushed and manipulated by the Universe! Those so-called "heros" of the War of Ages are the true evil in the Universe! They seek to manipulate us to their will, and to crush our independence! No more, I say! We, the Tyrekians and the Galactic Empire of Cyrannus will mark a new age on Kraw Galaxy history!"

- Kies Kortograa, Emperor of the Kraw

Prologue
Some claim this long story started all the way when the Kraw Galaxy decided to venture into universal affairs. It was 400 KRE. Back then, the Kraw had defeated the Iteok Khereg after a long and harsh war, and were slowly recovering from the war, alongside the Tahars, who were more damaged from the war. After a long consideration with then Emperor Varkeos of the Kraw Empire, the 4 major empires of the Kraw Galaxy, the Kraw Empire, the Former Asgord Empire, the Iteok Khereg, and the Tahar Empire decided to use KGGC FTL technology to jump them across the Universe.

The DCP would be their first alliance, welcoming the new empires into Universal affairs. By then, the Kraw Galaxy was been barely included in the updated Universal maps. And also, the Kraw Galaxy were unaware of some threats the rest of the universe knew very well, such as the Ayrai'Shikua. By 401 KRE, the Iteok have been on a quest for universal territory, beggining with the Former Ottzello Galaxy, fighting the Kralgon, and the Kraw were helping the Fordanta retrieve the Void Star from the Iteok.

It all seemed well at that point. Until later on, when the Asgord were so bent on allying other creatures they turned to the Ayrai'Shikua, which led them to make their imprint in Kraw Galaxy history by destroying Ka'tenes and their homeworld, Ka'an. This event would be the first in a long line of events against the Kraw Galaxy. In 402 KRE, the Asgord continued the alliance crusade by attempting to ally the Ayrai'Shikua, the ULE and most other empires. For some, they had enhough. They began the Asgord Genocide, which resulted in the destruction of the FRA, leaving the TAE as the sole Asgord power. It also meant drastic costs for the Kraw, as the DCP would end up incurring their wrath on them, disabling their space travel for a few years. This meant the beggining of Kraw hatred for the DCP, and even after mental propaganda they still hated the DCP subconsciously.

Later on, the KGGC would also feel the pain, as the DCP attcked 60% of the KGGC with oxygen generators, causing the death of 40% of their population. The KGGC had never seen such a horrid feat, and this is where the Kraw hatred for the DCP itensified. All these past events would set the pieces for what would happen next.

In 407 KRE, Kies ascended to the Kraw Empire's Presidency, and from there, Kies decided to take more drastic measures for Kraw Galaxy safety - as promised by his campaign. He started demanding the Brood of War and the ULE to leave the Galaxy - However none complied. Kies then allied the Galactic Empire of Cyrannus, however, behind the GEC's benevolent looks and their promise of aiding Kies in Kraw Galaxy deeds, lied a long term plan to take over the Kraw Galaxy. However, none knew.

Kies was by Dekbinaar 407 KRE known as the "laughing stock of the Universe" due to his ideals and his rough attitude on "GEC conspiratists". Kies decided that the time was right to begin what he called "Operation: Freedom".

Kies was walking towards the Vakneg, a 7 pointed star-like building known for its secret operations and military units. There, Kies was greeted by the Tyrekian emperor Gongnores Slaki, an Emperor known for his hunger for conquest. Kies promised Slaki the lands of the empires Slaki could kick out. For now Kies had 2 targets. The Brood, and the ULE.

They sat on an Heptagonal table, though on the table sat only Gongnores Slaki, and Kies Kortograa. The Room was pitch black save for a light at the top, made from neon lights. the door also produced light as well, from the lights outside the room. Kies and Slaki spoke about Operation: Freedom, which will guarantee security for the Kraw Galaxy.

Kies - "It is time, Slaki. Tommorow on new year, we will begin Operation Freedom!" Slaki - "It's been new year here 4 weeks ago, Kraw. Anyways, why are these empires the most important? The Iteok seem like a larger threat." Kies - "They're our secondary military force. Tame them and you got a screeching army at your command." Slaki - "I see. Then why us?" Kies - "Tier 2 on the Universal Tier scale. We'll need it." Slaki - "Our technology may be advanced, but you should thank the Komorian people we have some of it - Sad they split up though." Kies - "Who's your hardest man for the job?" Slaki - "A man named Tyko Heizeltö. He is perfect. He only lost against an overpowered birdman but that doesn't matter." Kies - "I've studied the Zazanaarg - Zazane can be quite strong. The Brood is easy, but the ULE will be slightly harder." Slaki - "Very well. We will both be in our ships tommorow. And that Cyrannus Empire?" Kies - "They might show up, I'm not sure. But one thing is known - This ends now. "

And with that, Kies and Slaki departed the room, and prepared for tommorow's mission. Kies felt ambition, Slaki felt nothing. As the new year entered the Kraw Galaxy, another entity has his eyes looked out for another empire. His name was. He had scourged the entire Kraw Galaxy 1.7 Billion years ago, purging it of Sapient life. A few years ago Mahedore was corrupted by, freeing him from his prison of life extension cables. Now, Mahedore is on the Namonzro Spaceship, looking at the Taharian colony of Azakom. Mahedore was emotionless, and on his hand, was a vial. But not just any vial - This one had a virus. A virus he decided to spread over to the Taharian species. Mahedore was clearly bored of the Tahars - He thought they would never change at this point. Mahedore walked a few steps to the left, to a launcher machine.

This machine would send out the virus to a certain victim. Mahedore was certain of what he wanted to do. He had no regard for the lives he was about to take. Mahedore slowly inserted the vial into a slot, and set the coordinates to hit one certain individual. The virus would affect only Tahars, and would slowly remove them of morals until they decide to kill everyone in sight. Mahedore has done this countless times before - This is just another walk in the park for him. He pressed the apparently black fire button. It was an ultra-violet colored button, being seen as black to human eyes, but not to Mahedore's Zanierton eyes.

The virus then invisibly fell to Azakom, and without the host noticing it, the virus vial melted and its essence hit the host. The host felt nothing. The Vial was made of an allow that melted upon athmosphere entrance. Now, the host was infected, and would pass on the virus to the hosts, but the effects won't be felt until 7 days had passed. Enhough time for the virus to gain ground.

The Sting Operation Begins
A lone soldier was waiting in the lobby of the military center of Sipprella. As other soldiers and officers were walking around him, going to their destinations, he sat there, waiting for someone. Soon, he saw a woman approaching him.

??? - Colonel Jonathan Pearson? Pearson - Yes. Draccard - ''Admiral Ariana Draccard. Pleasure to make your acquaintance.'' Pearson - ''As for me. I assume you're here to brief me on the mission?'' Draccard - ''Yes. Follow me to the central command office.''

Pearson followed Draccard to the command office, passing by some of the military facilities on Sipprella. He took a seat in what he assumed to be Draccard's office, and she pulled out a file labeled "Confidential".

Draccard - ''This is the mission dossier. Your mission, if you choose to accept it, is to infiltrate the inner workings of the Kraw Empire and interfere with the recent union between the Kraw and Galactic Empire of Cyrannus.'' Pearson - ''How will I get in? I hear Kies has tightened security during his reign.'' Draccard - ''Our bioengineers have recreated a fully operational Kraw body, which you will be using through consciousness transfer. Your alias will Varshk Daahk, an officer in the Kraw intelligence agency. We have been able to insert your false identity into the Kraw identification system, so there should be no worries about that matter.''

Admiral Draccard then displayed a digital map of the Kraw central intelligence center on Horehronie.

Draccard - *pointing to various rooms* You will have to access their central intelligence and alter the database as to undermine relations between the Kraw and GEC. Pearson - Is there anything else I need to know? Draccard - The Federal Intelligence Coalition will not be held accountable if you fail, so if you do, you're on your own. Pearson - All more the incentive to succeed.

Draccard smiled, then gestured to Pearson to follow her. They arrived at the biotechnology chamber, where a fully-outfitted Kraw was lying on an operating table, lifeless. Next to it was the characteristic Consciousness Transfer machine.

Draccard - ''We're just going to have to record your memory bank for security and mission purposes. But you'll be all right.''

Pearson sat himself down in the machine and fell asleep as he was injected with anesthetic. He woke up feeling much different, and looked around before noticing his body was a shade of soft blue. Draccard and the other scientists in the room were excited.

Draccard - ''Hello, Pearson. Or should I say... Varshk. How do you feel?'' Varshk - ''I feel... shorter. And blue.'' Draccard - ''*smiles* Excellent. We'll need to run a few regulatory tests and accustom you to Kraw culture, but after that, you're ready to make the Federation proud.''

As the scientists prodded him with all kinds of tools, Varshk was now thinking about his mission. It would be a great success for the Federation, and a new beginning for him.

Warm Reception
After a few days of training and learning, Varshk was ready to go. He would have to go to Horehronie under the cover that he was returning from a confidential assignment in the United Lanat Empire. Hopefully that would not be enough to raise any eyebrows, and Varshk would be able to successfully finish his mission if there wasn't any kind of divine intervention of sorts.

Horehronie Space Traffic - ''The glorious Kraw Empire welcomes you to the beautiful Horehronie. Be careful of space traffic in the area, and have a nice day.''

Landing his Kraw craft in the parking lot outside of the intelligence agency's headquarters, Varshk took a look around the great capital city of Yorg. It wasn't nearly as sprawling and towering as some other great capitals he had seen, such as Orbispira and Mirenton. It was sort of a refreshing change from the metropolises he'd seen all the time in the TIAF. He grabbed his coat from his ship, as it was going to be a cold day, even for the frigid standards of Yorg.

Varshk entered the building and found exactly what he had expected: an average business building lobby. There was a Kraw with a fedora reading a newspaper sitting on the couch. There was a lone receptionist sitting at the reception desk. Varshk remembered from the dossier that her name was Zkahiva Vrook, and she worked for the Kraw intelligence agency.

Varshk - Hello. Zkahiva - ''What? Oh... uh, hi.''

Kraw did not normally greet each other.

Varshk - I'm here to inquire about a recent shipment from the ULE. Zkahiva - Sir, the Kraw have banned trade with the ULE since 403 KRE... Varshk - ''You don't understand. See, I was told, "The Lanat Cruiser flies at midnight."''

That was his password into the intelligence agency. Now all he had to do was wait for Zkahiva to produce the response. She smiled before responding.

Zkahiva - ''"They will meet the Brood by morning." Welcome back, Varshk.''

She pressed a concealed button in the desk, and a doorway opened behind her, which Varshk assumed was the entrance. The man in the lobby showed no signs of suspicion; he must be an agent too. Zkahiva guided Varshk through the hallways of the intelligence agency until they reached the main command room.

Zkahiva - Well, director, he's back. Director - ''*walking over to Varshk* Good to have you back, my friend! How did the ULE treat you?'' Varshk - No better than they were treating the Asgord. Director - ''There's the Varshk I know! Welcome home, buddy!''

Varshk spent most of his time that day wading through other intelligence agents that were welcoming him back. He finally made it to his office, a roomy space with a state-of-the-art computer and numerous file cabinets. The Federation must've really shown their work here if they can get this many people excited over me, he mused to himself. Indeed, the Federation had. The mission was off to a great start.

At the end of the day, Varshk retired to the agent quarters, which were contained inside the actual agency itself. He was forced to try to lull himself to sleep with Kekta and Hekta playing in the background. He had never learned to like the duo, as much as he was trained to during his cultural lesson before the mission. Nevertheless, he coped with it, and soon welcomed the sweet embrace of sleep as the sun disappeared over the horizon of Horehronie.

That Feeling
Waking up from his slumber, Varshk saw the sun rising over the horizon of Horehronie. It must be early morning. He dressed himself and quietly entered the hallway of the agent quarters. Hopefully no one was awake yet and he could make some progress on his assignment before the other Kraw agents flooded the main office space.

As he was making his way down the stairs to the main office, he suddenly encountered Zkahiva as he turned the corner to the main atrium.

Zkahiva - ''Oh... You're up early.'' Varshk - ''Oh... Uh, yeah. Wanted to get started on my work early.'' Zkahiva - What kind of work? Varshk - ''Oh, you know... Workful work.'' Zkahiva - ''Ah. That kind of work.'' Varshk - ''Oh, uh, yeah. I'll see you around then.'' Zkahiva - Okay.

Varshk rushed by Zkahiva through the doorway into the intelligence facility's main atrium. He looked behind him to see Zkahiva staring at him oddly, then just sighing and looking to the ceiling. He felt an odd feeling in his stomach. ''Could it be? No, that's impossible.'' he thought. ''Never mind that. I have to stay focused.''

Varshk entered his office and booted up his computer. The seal of the Kraw Empire appeared briefly, then faded into the login screen. He remembered the password from the dossier, and was granted access to the computer. He immediately got into what he did best: hacking databases.

Kies had definitely done a good job of revamping the system, and it was going to be difficult to hack such complex encryption.

Not for Varshk, at least.

Varshk entered a string of code, and soon the system responded with a huge wall of computer code. He was in, he knew, but it could take a while, he didn't know how powerful Kraw computers were compared to TIAF computers.

By now, the building was alive and very much awake, and Varshk could hear the bustle in the atrium outside. Suddenly, he noticed someone waiting outside his doorway. It was Zkahiva again. She casually strolled into Varshk's office, taking his notice of her presence as an invitation. Thinking fast, Varshk quickly minimized his hacking program and opened a picture of cat faces.

Zkahiva - ''So. Whatcha doing?'' Varshk - I didn't invite you in here. Zkahiva - ''Something secret, huh? You know at the Espionage Agency we don't keep secrets.'' Varshk - It's nothing.

Zkahiva took a glance at Varshk's computer screen and only saw the glaring picture of faces of cats.

Zkahiva - ''Hm. Only cat faces. Well, the Director says that even though it's your first day back on the job, you need to stay on task.'' Varshk - ''Will do. Gladly.'' Zkahiva - Yeah...

Zkahiva turned around and headed out the doorway, but quickly glanced back at Varshk. Varshk noticed and turned his head to show, and Zkahiva quickly turned back, as if embarrassed. Varshk turned back to the code program, and found that he now had access to the entire Kraw intelligence database. He opened the KrawNet browser and began searching for files on the Kraw-Cyrannus alliance.

While he pulled up files on the alliance, his mind began to think about Zkahiva again. Yep, that settles it, he thought. It's love, then.

The Zaknak Rynnshakterak (or The Hidden Hacker)
Varshk was working away at his computer, trying his best to stay focused on his assignment and not on Zkahiva. He finally found the papers on the GEC-Kraw alliance. Varshk could tell the bonds between the Kies regime and the GEC were tight, almost suspiciously so in such a short amount of time. Nevertheless, Varshk was sure he could crumble it almost as quickly as it had formed.

He began typing up a paper designed to look like official Kraw papers. He knew it would be far too easy to spot if he tried to imitate the GEC, as the GEC would see right through it if it had supposedly come "from the desk of the Emperor" or the Senate, or something like that.

Instead, he began typing up a statement that would appear to have been released by Kies, containing inflammatory notes about the GEC. As long as he was able to spoof the KrawNet address it came from to match the address of Kies' network, it would be difficult for Kies to work around unless Kies was far more sane than he appeared. He didn't worry about the GEC examining it too hard; the TIAF knew the GEC had other interests than allying a species so insignificant compared to the Empire.

As he was finishing the statement and copying Kies' signature onto it, he felt a presence in his office space. He looked up slowly to see a Kraw agent, wearing a fedora and trenchcoat. This was the same agent that Varshk had seen in the lobby, and he recognized him as a high-rank agent, Shrakara Valesh.

Shrakara - You seem to be working diligently. Varshk - Why do act surprised? Shrakara - It's Casual Friday. Varshk - They have Casual Friday here, too? Shrakara - ''Yeah. Ever since 406 KRE.'' Varshk - Wait, so if that's your casual clothes... Shrakara - I don't wear the trenchcoat for my offical uniform. Varshk - Ah.

Shrakara attempted to look at Varshk's computer screen, but Varshk quickly minimized to the desktop screen. Shrakara seemed disgruntled that Varshk was supposedly hiding something.

Shrakara - ''Whatever. Just take it easy today. It's casual.'' Varshk - I was told to immediately get back to work today. Shrakara - Sounds like someone didn't get the memo. Varshk - Sounds more like someone's making up Casual Friday.

Shrakara muttered something under his breath before storming out of the room. He assumed this meant that Casual Friday was indeed made up. He checked the clock and noticed it was about lunchtime. He quickly saved the file, and decided to leak it to the KrawNet after lunch.

As he walked down the hallway alone, as he always had when he was a kid in the TIAF, he was quietly thinking about the assignment. Suddenly, a voice called to him from across the hall. It was Zkahiva again.

Zkahiva - ''Hey, Varshk! Wait up!'' Varshk - Oh, hi, Zkahiva. Zkahiva - ''Hi, Varshk! So...what's up?'' Varshk - ''Oh, nothing. Just going out to lunch.'' Zkahiva - ''That's nice. ...Say, Varshk, I want to ask you something.'' Varshk - What? Zkahiva - ''Would you, I don't know... Go grab lunch with me?'' Varshk - Oh, uh, sure! Zkahiva - Great!

Varshk began having that odd feeling again in his stomach. He knew what it was. Now all he was hoping for is that he could perhaps stay as Varshk even after the mission was over...

Shrakara was sitting in the Director's office, speaking with the Director.

Shrakara - ''I'm telling you, Krasnarg. Varshk seems very suspicious to me.'' Director Krasnarg - ''Varshk is one of our best agents. Perhaps even better than you, Shrakara. He couldn't possibly be a double.'' Shrakara - ''I think he's hiding something. And I myself have no recollection of him ever being with the agency before, and you know that I would be aware of anyone who is at or near my level.'' Krasnarg - ''You've just simply gone mad, Shrakara. He was away for a while on a highly confidential mission to the ULE. I wasn't allowed to know about it either. But he's just probably been away so long we forgot him.'' Shrakara - Is that not suspicious? Krasnarg - ''...You may have a point, Shrakara. Tell you what. I'll keep an eye on him for suspicious activity. If I don't notice anything, then it's nothing. But if I do notice something, you'll have full permission to lead an investigation.'' Shrakara - With eagerness, Krasnarg. Krasnarg - ''Very good, then. We shall see how loyal he really is...''

Keeping An Eye On You
Varshk was returning from his lunch break with Zkahiva. As he wandered down the main hallway to the atrium, his mind was centered on Zkahiva. He didn't notice Shrakara was there until he physically bumped into him.

Varshk - Oh, here we go... Shrakara - So what are you doing? Varshk - Nothing. Shrakara - Ruining my plans? Varshk - What kind of plans? Shrakara - My plans to make sure you're not doing anything out of line. Varhsk - Huh, those kinds of plans. Shrakara - So are you ruining them? Varshk - ...No. Shrakara - ''Good. Because if you were, that would be bad.'' Varshk - How bad? Shrakara - I'd have to kill you. Varshk - That's illegal. Shrakara - *eyes narrow* I would take pleasure in it.

Shrakara patted Varshk on the shoulder before heading off. Varshk looked back at him with a suspicious glare, and made his way to his office. Varshk wiggled the computer mouse a little to coerce the computer monitor out of its screen saver mode, and opened his forged document. He opened his hacking program and got to work on spoofing his KrawNet ID to that of Kies' private network. As the wall of text greeted him again, he relaxed in his chair a little. Looking through the blinds of his window, however, he could see Director Krasnarg eyeing him with a hostile glare. A little intimidated, Varshk stared the other way. Soon it will be all over, Varshk thought to himself.

Soon he checked his hacking device, and it had managed to successfully spoof his KrawNet ID. He pulled up the document again and prepared to release the document on to the KrawNet. Here goes nothing, he thought, and he clicked. A short string of text appeared on the hacking device, telling him that the document had been successfully released. He shut down his hacking software and pulled up the picture of cats again in case anyone was going to pay him a visit.

He got up, stretched a little, and walked out into the atrium to get a cup of Vzak, the Kraw equivalent of coffee. As he was pouring kjarra milk in with his vzak, he noticed Krasnarg standing at the vzak table right next to him, glaring at him.

Varshk - Is there something wrong, Director? Krasnarg - ''Oh, don't mind me, Varhsk. I'm just...surveying.'' Varshk - The vzak is perfectly fine, Director... Krasnarg - You never know if someone's going to use too much kjarra milk. Varshk - We have limits on that?

Varshk soon realized his cup was overflowing, as he had poured too much kjarra milk in his distraction.

Krasnarg - You're lucky you don't have to pay for that. Varshk - I could if I have to. Krasnarg - Is that so? Varhsk - Sure.

The two were soon approached by Zkahiva, who sensed a conflict brewing between the two.

Zkahiva - Is there a problem, Krasnarg? Varshk - Zkahiva- Krasnarg - ''Everything is perfectly...fine, Zkahiva. Get back to work, or whatever you do.'' Zkahiva - ''*glares at Krasnarg* Very well, Krasnarg. Just don't bother Varshk. He's busy.'' Krasnarg - *looks at Varshk trying to clean up the mess* I'd say so. Zkahiva - Just leave him alone. Krasnarg - ''I will speak to you later. In my office.''

Krasnarg walked off with his cup of vzak, while Zkahiva took to helping Varshk clean up the spilled kjarra milk.

Zkahiva - Here, let me help you. Varshk - Zkahiva, please, I can handle this. Zkahiva - ''Well... Okay. You're sure you've got this?'' Varhsk - ''Yep. *dumps a bunch of soggy napkins into a trash can*'' Zkahiva - ''Listen, if Krasnarg or Shrakara are bothering you, just tell me. I can knock some sense into them.'' Varshk - Zkahiva, that's not really necessary- Zkahiva - ''*pulls out what appears to be a rock in a sock* No, really. If they're getting on your nerves, I can whack them with this sack of frozen kjarra butter. It really does the trick.'' Varshk - ''Uh... Thanks, Zkahiva.'' Zkahiva - I'm on your side, Varshk.

Zkahiva smiled before walking off, concealing her sock full of frozen kjarra butter in her bag. As Varshk wiped up the last of the kjarra milk, he couldn't help but think that all eyes were on him. It felt as if the entire agency was keeping an eye on him.

No Safe Haven
The entire Kraw intelligence agency had gone into uproar as soon as the forged files were discovered. Kies had ordered an immediate investigation to find the source of the files, and Varshk knew it was now only a matter of time before he was rooted out.

''Damn. Kies is smarter than he looks.''

It was another chaotic day following the discovery, and Varshk was doing his best to stay under the radar. He knew Krasnarg and Shrakara were going to be all over him soon. As he typed away at his computer, pretending to work, Shrakara appeared at his doorway.

Varshk - Get the frak out of my office. Shrakara - Hell no, bitch. Varshk - What the frak do you want? Shrakara - ''I knew I shouldn't have trusted you. Just after you come back from your "oh-so-secret" mission, we get Kies screaming at us about some sabotage in the system.'' Varshk - Have you made sure Kies isn't just having another aneyuresm? Shrakara - Bitch, I'm talking. Varshk - So? Shrakara - I have reason to believe you're behind this... Varshk - ''Really? Could you back up that statement?''

Shrakara simply glared at Varshk before walking away. Varshk sighed a little in relief. None of the evidence was pointing towards him yet. He got up and made his way to the exit corridor. As he was walking, he encountered Zkahiva.

Zkahiva - You okay, Varshk? Varshk - Not now, Zkahiva. Zkahiva - Where are you going? Varshk - I just need some fresh air, okay?

Varshk stormed down the hallway, and Zkahiva looked back at him with a worried look.

Varshk was sitting outside in the agency parking lot, next to his spaceship. He bowed his head and groaned in frustration. But then he remembered which side he was working for. He picked up his cell phone and dialed the TIAF spy agency on Sipprella.

Varshk - ''Hello?... Anyone?...'' Operator - ''Greetings, sir, you have reached the Federal Intelligence Coalition, Sipprella Outlet. How may I help you?'' Varshk - Please redirect me to the central command office. Operator - ''Certainly. Please hold.''

Varshk waited a few minutes, while hold music played on the phone. He looked up at the agency tower, and noticed Krasnarg arguing with another agent in his office. Varshk cautiously scooted to the other side of his spaceship.

??? - Hello? Varshk - Is this Admiral Draccard? ??? - No... Varshk - Who is this then? Ahsokas - ''This is Admiral Sydney Ahsokas. Admiral Draccard was transferred to Andromeda and I am taking her place at Kraw Command. You must be Pearson, right?'' Varshk - They call me Varshk these days. Ahsokas - ''Right. So, what are you calling about?'' Varshk - There's been some trouble with the mission... Ahsokas - ''Ah, yes. It's been on the Kraw news channels.'' Varshk - Any chance that you guys could, you know...help out? Ahsokas - ''I'm sorry, Varshk, although I'd really like to help you out, the Federal Intellgience Coalition really wants to distance themselves from this as much as possible. We don't want Kies raging at us. So sorry, you're on your own.'' Varshk - ''...Huh. Okay. Thanks anyways...''

Varshk hung his head in defeat. Now his only choice was to see if he could wait out the storm. He looked up to see Krasnarg eyeing him spitefully. Varshk quickly got up and walked back inside the agency.

Now there is no safe haven for me, he thought to himself.

Picking Up the Pieces
It was another day of anticipation for Varshk. Although the investigation was far from complete, it was still painful waiting for the inevitable. Varshk was trying to relax in his quarters, while his quarter neighbor was blasting Kekta and Hekta through the wall. Varshk heard a knock on his door, and answered. It was Zkahiva.

Zkahiva - Hey, Varshk. Varshk - What do you want? Zkahiva - You just seem very stressed out lately. Varshk - What's it to you? Zkahiva - ''I just don't like to see you so unhappy every day. Can I come in?'' Varshk - Uh, sure.

Varshk stepped out of the way to let Zkahiva in, and closed the door behind her.

Zkahiva - I think all you need is to wind down a little. Varshk - Zkahiva, I just really have a lot on my mind right now... Zkahiva - Well then, maybe I can at least help you take those thoughts off your mind for now. Varshk - Hm? Zkahiva - ''Varshk, do you want to, you know... Do something together tonight? Like maybe go eat somewhere and watch a movie?'' Varshk - You mean like a date? Zkahiva - ''Well, I mean- *sighs* Yes, like a date... *smiles shyly*''

Varshk's mood brightened a little. It wouldn't hurt to go out with her, he thought to himself. Might as well enjoy what I can while I'm still here.

Varshk - ''Alright, then. What did you have in mind?'' Zkahiva - There's this really nice restaurant in downtown Yorg, and maybe we could go see Asgordak Asrudiis (Asgordian Perils) at the movie club. Varshk - That sounds good. Zkahiva - Alright then. Varshk - Let's go.

Varshk grabbed his coat and headed out the door, trailed by Zkahiva.

At dinner, Varshk and Zkahiva discussed Kraw events over their food.

Zkahiva - I've heard Kies has a new girlfriend. Varshk - *chuckles a little* Heh, I wonder what she did to get that far with Kies. Zkahiva - ''They say they met at Imperialfest, which I guess explains everything. *laughs*''

Varshk and Zkahiva laughed and talked with each other throughout the meal. Meanwhile, Shrakara, who happened to show up at the same restaurant, watched them with disgust.

Shrakara - ''Frakking Varshk. May Tyraz smite him.''

Later, Varshk and Zkahiva were watching Asgordak Asrudiis. Varshk found his arm wrapped around Zkahiva's back for much of the movie, and a particularly surprising part jolted Zkahiva into Varshk's lap. Zkahiva smiled at Varshk before sliding back into her seat.

At the end of the night, Varshk was seeing Zkahiva to her quarters.

Varshk - ''That was awesome! We should really do that again!'' Zkahiva - ''I know. I really enjoyed being with you, Varshk.'' Varshk - *embraces Zkahiva* I really enjoyed it too.

Their lips met each other, though as soon as they realized this, they both pulled back shyly. The awkward moment was dispersed when Zkahiva uttered the three words:

Zkahiva - ...I love you. Varshk - ...I love you too.

Varshk hugged her goodbye, and she retreated into her quarters. Varshk was ecstatic as he walked down the corridor to his room. He encountered Shrakara in the hall, but brushed him off easily.

Shrakara - Where do you think you're going? Varshk - ''I dunno, but don't let me interrupt your moment with your imaginary girlfriend. *cocks his head in a taunting manner*'' Shrakara - I swear, I will beat the living crap out of you... Varshk - ''*sarcastically* Oh, oh! What a great comeback!''

Varshk marched down the hallway while Shrakara was left seething with rage. Varshk could hear the sound of Shrakara kicking a trash can over.

Why didn't I think like this before, he thought. ''My days are numbered, sure. But I'll make the most of it before I'm brought down.''

Discovering the Newfound Cult
Growing suspicious of the recent religious upheaval in the Kormorian Theocratic state, the Inquisition had dispatched two of it's Inquisitors, Draevus and Randarus, to investigate and appraise the new religion. Upon arriving on the planet Gvazd, wearing civillian attire, they were searched by the starport authority. When a guard noticed Draevus wore pendant of Drakon's wings the guard shouted at him before pulling it off. After the other guard confirmed there was nothing incriminating on the communicators or datapads they were carrying they were sent to a Xaa to have their minds read, their inquisition training. given bracelets to monitor what they did before being let out into the city. Both of them decided it would be best to investigate a temple, when they approached a half-finished temple they were approached by Za'erian priest standing outside.

Draevus - These buildings look like they're half-finished, or they're just being refurbished. Za'erien - ''Yes, we are done with the Ayrai'Shikua, they killed our commanders and they hate us. Hail Antediluvian.'' Randarus - ''Antediluvian? As in the Cyrannian emperor?'' Za'erien - Of course, who else? Draevus - Antediluvian is just a man, as far as we know there's nothing that special about him. Za'erien - Pffft, that's what YOU say.

They were interrupted when a Katorg approached Draevus, he was in a bad mood.

Katorg - ''Stop. Now.'' Drevus - Don't tell me: I said something heretical. Katorg - ''Yes. Now stop.'' Randarus - Perhaps we just need to be enlightened. Katorg - You want to study our religion? Draevus - Not knowing the entirety of others' beliefs is a known cause of religious intolerance, we wish to know more. Katorg - *Laughs* Very well, come to the library.

The Katorg took them to a library where row-upon-row of books on the Xhodocto sat gathering dust, after a brief ouburst of fustration he finds a book titled The Ways of Antediluvian. Looking at all the books Draevus was impressed, upon learning no-one was really interested in the books anymore he hinted that the Inquisition would be very interested, upon accepting the book Draevus was curious once more.

Draevus - ''Thank you. They say every faith has an origin, is yours in this book by any chance?'' Katorg - ''One of his acolytes enlightened us through a mass broadcast. That book contains his morals.'' Randarus - This could be the very thing we are looking for, how much? Katorg - 20 Iktos, around 180 Kron.

Both of them were in shock at the price, 180 Kron was equivilent to 4500 Miminan credits (enough to buy a mid-end electronics system) but with an Inquisition-backed wallet they agreed since the Komorians would not change the price.

After purchasng the book they headed to a completed temple to Anediluvian. Blending in with the crowd they stood at the edges of the room, rather displeased of the colossal stature to Antediluvian that stood in the middle of the auditorium, the words "Praise Antediluvian" inscribed in Cyrannian basic at the base. The lights of the main chamber dimmed and a Takork priest stood in front of the stature, clearing his throat.

"Propsperity and power, that is what awaits us in the glorious lives we have today, under the serenity and guidance of Lord Antediluvian. Together, we will rise as we become one with Antediluvian's blessing! We are Antediluvian's chosen people! We are his faithful servants, and we know Antediluvian is 100% perfect. Once we die, in the afterlife we will attain perfection! We will be prosperous, we will be all-mighty. Bliss will only be present in the minds of Antediluvian's worshippers, as the others, specially the SSZ Traitors, and Zhormandrevus himself, will be casted into Ayrai'Shikua Hell! And every rebel who stands before the false god Zhromandrevus will be met with a fate so harsh they'll wish they were never created!"

The priest's verses were broekn up by cheers from the congregation. Both of the inquisitors stared at each other as this went on for another 45 minutes, horrified that not only did this seem more like a rally than a congregation but the priest had promised omnipotence in death and dmnation for any unbelievers. When they finally returned to the spaceport, bewildered at what they saw, theguard returned Draevus' pendant, which he accepted with a scowl. After their bracelets were removed the shuttle took off to return to imperial space. As they journeyed home Draevus sat reading the book they had bought while Ranardus was pasing about the room.

Draevus - We should be concerned about on these people, this acolyte sounds like a modern-day messiah. Randarus - Looking at their tech the GEC could convincingly make themselves look like gods, after all there is a very large technology gap. Draevus - Look at this: "The messiah came to the Lord's court, with clothing fitting of a god, and caused the guards to explode." Draevus - ''Teleportation and spontaneous combustion are possible with the right tech... but how sudden it ocurred could not be an anti- or hypermatter reaction.'' Draevus - ''But that statue... That's just pathetic.'' Randarus - ''What are you talking about? Most monasteries portray murals of Drakon and we ocassionaly get gold-embossed carvings on ceilings.'' Drawevus - At least we don't pray to them. Randarus - ''We are to cast an impartial eye. I'm more concerned that they actively promote the philoophy that agnostics and such are condemned to hell for the Aryai'Shikua!'' Randarus - ''And then there is the stuff that says they will be allmighty in heaven. Saying you will be granted the powers of a god in heaven is just... pathetic! You're drawing people in with promises of power!'' Draevus - Okay so what do you think the Inquisition should do? Ranardus - ''Perhaps they just need guidance, they recently emerged from civil war because of doubt over demon worship. This violent past could have tainted their views of this new 'god' of theirs.'' Randarus - ''It sounds like they hit Antediluvian bang-on to me. The man's a devious git, I can tell.'' Draevus - ''I suppose other than that it's not too bad. We'll inform the inner circle to keep watch on them. If this acolyte's actions are to be believed this whole religion could have been engineered by the emperor to take advantage of these zealots, remember the information we were forwarded from the RIA about these 'acolytes'?'' Randarus - ''Yeah, yeah I remember. We'll let the circle decise what to do wtih this.''

Scaling Up
Leondius Drevex, who had been posted as the Imperium's executive admiral in the Kraw Galaxy sat in his office in the battlestation above Alvedinus Prime, tossing a rubber ball between his hands. A high pitched bleep touched his ears, repeating every three seconds. Exhaling he returned the ball to his desk before activating the intercom. The femenine voice of his receptionist was fed through a speaker, telling him that the lord-admiral wanted to speak to him. Leondius agreed and the holoemitter in his ceiling projected an image of Larnus in the middle of his room.

Leondius - ''Lord Admiral! To what do I owe the pleasure?'' Larnus - ''Little that is good. I'm sure you've heard the news of the Kraw Empire's new allies?'' Leondius - ''Urgh, I know. And yesterday irecieved a report that there were a large number of Imperial warships ariving in the galaxy.'' Larnus - That's what i wanted to talk to you about, the Security Council is concerned that in the event of armed conflict we would quickly lose the colonies. Leondius - ''Damn-right they should be concerned! You left us with a token navy and NOW you want to step up? About void-forsaken time if you ask me.''

Leondius picked up his ball again, tossing it between his hands and interested in what Larnus was to say. Larnus clutched his hands in front of him and inhaled deeply.

Larnus - We're dispatching four battlefleets to your clocation, along with TNSS Shivarus 

Leondias's eyes widened, rather shocked at what Larnus was offering, his claws dug into the ball, leaving four small holes.

Leondius - ''Begging your pardon lord-admiral... but isn't the Shivarus a Warlord-class?'' Larnus - Yes it is. Leondius - ''I... I am... honoured... But why a Warlord?'' Larnus - If the Emperor ever declares war you would be the first to know since you have essentially become the frontline, Admiral.

Leondius' claws dug deeper into his ball, he gritted his teeth knowing that the fate of the Imperium rested with him. Larnus then activated a hologram showing the Imperius Leader.

Larnus - ''They simply call him the Imperius Leader, if anything this is the man who will be in charge. the RIA took notice of how he was the one Kies allied with when sent to the Kraw Empire and is considered the Emperor's right-hand.'' Leondius - Is there anything we know about him? Larnus - ''Not much, from what we know the Basileus generally obscure their leaders' identities. Whatever the GEC is doing here you can be sure he would have some involvement in it.'' Leondius - I am grateful for the council's dispatch. Larnus - ''I'm glad to hear. Remember that Warlords are like platinum, we can only deploy so many at a time so take very good care of it.'' leondias - ''Oh I will sir, I will. Imperium Eternal''

Larnus nnodded and ended the transmission at his end. Leondius sat in the empty room, he looked at his hand to see his fingers embedded in the ball and used his other hand to ull thewm out. As he placed the ball neatly on the table he claspted his hands together and rested his elbows on the table, a proud grin spread across his face as the idea that he was now in command of one of the most powerful warships the Draconis had ever designed.

Days later he looked out of the window of his office to see the new fleet arriving, the scale of the Shivarus made all the other ships - even the 2-km battleships look like toy boats. He (never turly understanding true difference in size) dropped his jaw in awe - he suddnely felt very important.

Make Him See Reason
Horkarew sat in his bedroom when his intercom system notified that someone was contacting him, when he opened the secure channel he saw the face of Ambassador Tarsus (the Draconis he had met in his palace when the two races first met) with a look of concren on his face.

Horkarew - Greetings. Tarsus - Greetings emperor, I am glad you took the time to see me like this. Horkarew - Heh, what is it this time? Tarsus - ''From our last meeting i realised you were a man of reason. The senate is groing increasingly worried that Emperor Kies' actions are putting the entire galaxy at risk and unless he sees reason... I dread to think. Uriel has tried to reason with him to no effect, he dismisses every piece of evidence we throw at him as forgery and now it the entire federation is accepting the rule of Emperor Antediluvian.'' Horkarew - ''I'm neutral to the whole thing. We do not want any quarrels with Kies.'' Tarsus - Before I continue I want to know of your opinions on this whole mess, this is an encrypted channel so speak freely. Horkarew - ''I'm not sure on what to think. The GEC offered to help our Galaxy, but they kicked us out of Cyrannus...'' Tersus - ''Imperial Intelligence, the Paragon, the Lord-Admiral... all of them suspect the GEC is up to something and the Inquisition suspects the emperor is also responsible for the new faith in the Komorian Theocratic State.'' Horkarew - Much better than the Xhodocto faith though. Tarsus - ''That is true, the Inquisition can tolerate them. He could be playing on the galaxy's weakened state; Kies wanted help to show he's tough and they conveniently come along and offer to help him out. In exchange the federation becomes part of the empire. I know the Imperium offered the same deal but something does not feel right.'' Horkarew - ''WAIT WAIT WAIT - Becomes part of the Empire? According to Kies, we are simply defended by the GEC, we're not conquered!'' Tarsus - He was offered protectorate status with political independance. Horkarew - Yes, which is diffrent from your initial offer for Kies. Tarsus - ''Perhaps, but this could only be the first step to something else. But none of our protectorates consider themselves conquiered. Instead the general sentiment is that they feel more united with the Imperium.'' Horkarew - We just aren't right by not being fully independent, maybe it's the current Kraw Galaxy code we're used to.'' Tarsus - Kies has become paranoid beyond measure, and allying with the empire has only created mroe enemies than allies. Horkarew - ''I don't know what to do. We don't want to be enemies with Kies, but we don't want this to go on...'' Tarsus - Could you try and reason with him? Horkarew - As I said, I don't want to be enemies with Kies. Tarsus - If the GEC had it's way I have a suspicion they'd spout propaganda about our exchange project, undo all our work. Horkarew - ''Indeed. They may see me as "posessed by the enemy".'' Tarsus - ''Part of being a leader involves making the tough decisions, perhaps tell him of the good we are doing together. The senate does not want enemies out here but we are on good terms with the Brood of War. I have been told by one of Uriel's family that they are being completely turned around!'' Horkarew - ''Then it's too risky, Kies may deem me as posessed or something. I cannot risk that.'' Tarsus - Then what do you suggest? Horkarew - We must ask for all conflict to end against the Kraw Galaxy for a few years, and we should ask the Brood and ULE to at least try to leave. Tarsus - ''Difficult... Asking people to abandon their homes is never easy.'' This seems almost exactly like what happened in Cyrannus less tha na few months ago and some may see a pattern.'' Horkarew - Indeed... Tarsus - ''Perhas the empire 'desires' universal dominance, why else would they work to controlling another galaxy while they are already embroiled in their own wars at home? the Quadrants are in disarray and all of the URC's old allies are either isolated from or are under direct attack.'' Horkarew - ''I have no idea how to tell Kies this. Maybe give him a figure Kies cares so much he wouldn't think of him as a liar. Then he'll slooooowly give the info to Kies, over the course of days or weeks.'' Tarsus - Call it sceptical if you like, but the Inquisition suspects that the emperor has sided with the Deathmarch, that or those demons are all to happy to help him out, we have recordings to imply this. Horkarew - Show me. Tarsus - Give me a moment...

It took some time before Tarsus transferred an audio log the Inquisition had aquired listening to the UDB. What he showed Horkarew was an audio clip of a Deathmarch warrior threatening extragalactics to leave before their planets are bombarded

Tarsus - Sorry for the delay I had to get clearence, but this transmission was directly linked to the emperor's decree a month ago Horkarew - Hmmmm, I can't tell who the voice is... Tarsus - ''The transmission patterns matched codes the Deathmarch use, this is either genuine or osmeone's idea of a very sick joke. There's more: discussions continue on the same topic that implies a DCP-GEC alliance!'' Horkarew - Really? Tarsus - Kies is possibly, just possibly, being played. Horkarew - Played, as in? Tarsus - Played for a fool, they're taking advantage of how little he keeps track of the UDB. Horkarew - He's keeping more track of it now, sadly it's for poor purposes.'' Tarsus - About your suggestion: I might have an idea of how to get around this. Horkarew - Very well, show me. Tarsus - Even on a secure channel it's risky but first: Is Kies in any sort of relationship? Horkarew - Which Kind? Tarsus - Romantic. Horkarew - ''He has no mates. Many females come for him, and Kies is neutral to them. Some say Asexuality but that's a rumor.'' Horkarew - We don't know what personality, traits or body shape he finds attractive. Tarsus - This can be discussed more easily with an agent, they would have a better idea. Horkarew - ''Or by taking a mind scan file. With that we can gather the info about his sexuality. I have an idea on how to do this. We schedule him a medical exam.'' Tarsus - We then can use that to create a covert agent not even he could resist... Horkarew - Indeed... Tarsus - Like i said, you might want to discuss the details with an agent. Horkarew - The mental scan idea is far more efficient. Tarsus - ''That's not what i meant. The more intricate details of the plan would be their domain.'' Horkarew - Explain. Tarsus - ''I'd rather not discuss the RIA's abilities openly, even on a secure channel. I will see if an agent can contact you soon but whatever the case we ned that mind scan for this to work.'' Horkarew - ''Indeed. I'll talk to the Kraw Empire Medical services.''

Tarsus smiled before he ended the communication, leaving Horkarew sitting in his room wondering to himself just what the Draconis had in mind. Horkarew then contacted the Kraw Empire medical services, to schedule an appointment for Kies.

Kies was devastated after losing his battle against the ULE, and when he was told of his mental health appointment, he became more annoyed, as he thought he didn't need one. He didn't, it was for the Tahars. Kies would take a day to arrive back to Horehronie for his appointment, thus delaying his plans with the ULE, however, Kies wasn't worried, as he left Tyko to handle ULE issues for the meanwhile.

Kies went to a mental center called "Zhorkrin", which was located near the Yorg Spaceport. As he waited for his appointment, people looked at him with awe.

Clerk - "E-e-emperor..." Kies - "My name is Kies. When I'm not in my palace I don't require all of your "politeness" you people come up with." Clerk - "Uhhhh..."

Kies was then called for his appointment. To his surprise, a Tahar doctor appeared for his appointment. Kies had no questioning to do - He'd be a lot better off with a Tahar. Kies was then asked to lay in a white couch while a headband was strapped around Kies's forehead, covering his eyes.

Tahar - "Calm down, you may see a blinding light. Relax, no harm will come to you." Kies - "Do I look like I'm 5? I've been through this before!" Tahar - "My apologies, emperor."

The doctor then activated the mental scan. Kies saw the blinding light, as he predicted, though Kies didn't flinch - His years of military experience taught him to remain calm under these situations. The data would be processing for another 10 minutes until the doctor analyzed the data in awe, before unstrapping his headband.

Tahar - "You have... a minor case of Paranoia... might I suggest a vacation?" Kies - "That's like asking for your destruction." Tahar - "... Very well."

The doctor then removed the physical media containing Kies's mental data, and left at the same time as Kies. Kies wondered why the doctor left at the same time as him, but he then dismissed the issue and returned to his tower palace. He had some work to do before leaving back to Tyrekian territory.

Behind your Back
Two days after Kies' exam and Horkarew was in his room once again, he was surprised when someone knocked on his door.

Horkarew - Who is it? ??? - Tarsus sends his greetings.

After hearing that name Horkarew was confinced to pen the door. Behind it was a Tahar who smiled and greeted him. Horkarew decided to speak in Taharian, feeling comfortable that he could talk to one of his own people and the Tahar responded te same way.

Horkarew - Greetings, fellow subject, what do you wish? Tahar - Tarsus told me you had a plan to make Kies see reason. Horkarew - ''How do you know about Tarsus? And... HEY LOOK THERE IS A GUY SHOWING HIS RELIGION OFF BEHIND YOU!''

The Tahar just stood there and didn't flinch, Horkarew grabbed his finger and placed it into an ID checker, an abscence of any ID set off the palace's alarm systems. The Tahar revealed himself:

Agent - The RIA sends it's regards... Horkarew - ''Test protocol, no need to worry! Oh, I see, you fooled me. How did you get into the RIA?'' Agent - ''You think they would just hire Draconis? Permit me inside and i will show you.''

Horkarew lets him walk inside. The tahar's skin dissolves like acid on rock to reveal a humannoid alien slightly smaller than a Tahar. Theoretically he was the right shape to fit within a Tahar skin.

Agent - Nanotech's a wonderful thing isn't it? Horkarew - Damn! Agent - ''The agency spares no expense for it's agents. Now, about this plan of youre, here's what a propose: We have a genome profile for the Kraw, the Imperium uses it's genetic knowlege, combined with the information on your mind scan to create a Kraw Kies will completely fall for. Our Kraw will appear to be loving back, We create a situation to introduce them and have a relationship build up. Once it reaches the point he trusts her completely the agent will begin to slip information to him at a manageable pace.'' Horkarew - ''Perfect, now, let's see the data... Yes... I can tell now that the rumors of Kies's assexuality... are false. Turns out he's attracted to a rare kind of striped Kraw with a diffrent horn shape and a more curvy body shape and pointy tails. There's only 0.4% of Kraw like that.'' Agent - Even without such a sample I'm certain our knowledge extends to the point where we can work out what genes are needed. Horkarew - ''Heh, we have all the data. ''

Horkarew handed over the datapad contiaining the results of Kies' mind scan to the agent who skim-reads the data with a smile.

Agent - Thank you how do you suggest the two could get together? Horkarew - ''According to his memories, Kies always attends the weekly dance party in the center of Byarg, even as Emperor. ''It often relaxes him. Hence why we don't hear much of him the day after at least.'' Agent - ''Perfect, such a situation should make it easy to install our agent. The agent could take months to mature.'' Horkarew - ''Months? That long?'' Agent - Weeks is possible but we don't want to rush the growth period. Horkarew - Very well. Agent - ''The relationship would take months to fully form anyway... at least to the point where he would fully trust her.'' Horkarew - Very well. Agent - Is there anything else i should know? Horkarew - ''Not really. But give the female a true Kraw Personality.'' Agent - That would arise naturally due ot her genome, along with the traits we would give her to make this work. Horkarew - Allright. Agent - I will send the data to HQ proptly, goodbye emperor. Horkarew - Goodbye.

The agent morphed back into the Tahar disguide he used earlier and walked towards the door. Before he left completely he turned back to Horkarew with a smile and closed the door behind him. Once out of sight of anything he tapped below his ear.

Agent - Command I have the data we need, we had better secure a lab - Operation siren-46 is green.

The agent left Terkom without anyone noticing, returning to Imperial space while checking over the data Horkarew had given him, a devious smile spread accross this face as hs stroked his chin.

The Artificial Woman
A week after the agent had delivered the information to the Royal Academy this same agent, who would be identified as '7341' had been tasked by Mentracus (the RIA's secreteive CEO) to oversee what had been codenamed 'siren-46'. He had been sent to an orbital laboratory several parsecs from the wormhole in the Kraw galaxy. After being screened, decontaminated and given a biohazard suit he was greeted by dr. Orovus Drebinum, the lead scientist.

Orovus - ''I take it you are 7341? Odd name.'' 7341 - My name is not important and it should not concern you, how is our project? Orovus - It's going well, come with me and i will show you.''

They were taken through several spotless work areas, the lab he was visiting was used for many different forms of genetic research but after walking for 10 minutes and passing through security they entered a large chamber. In the centre of the room was a transparent tube filled with liquid, floating inside the liquid was a Kraw girl with a pointed tail, curled horns and some blue stripes around her body.

7341 - Impressive, how much longer before she is ready? Orovus - Perhaps a week and then another week or two to make her comfortable. 7341 - ''Listen to me: The longer we wait, the more our window of oppertunity closes! The Federation has already agreed to become a protectorate of the Empire and the longer Kies stays blind to what they have done the harder it will be to make that brain-dead reptile realise the truth.'' Orovus - Perhaps we could condense the acclaimatisation process... 7341 - ''I could hardly care what you do, just make sure she stays good. Half of the gigaquadrant knows of the GEC-DCP alliance and Kies stands in the skraving middle with his ear-holes shut!'' Orovus - If you are done reminding me, we still need to explain where this woman has been for all this time. 7341 - I have it covered.

The Agent hands Orovos a flash drive, who mimes an expression of approval.

7341 - ''That should cover the 30-or-so years of her missing life. Keep up the good work, doctor.''

The Agent turns around had returns the way he came, pleased with the progress. He makes a detour and swipes a card that unlocks the door to the security hub. The guard inside turns and draws a pistol only for the agent to hold up his hand, revealing an RIA insignia embedded in his palm. With his other hand he pulls out a circular device with a strip of metal going 1/3 of the way across the rim.

7341 - ''I want full access to the station security cameras, clearence: Axah Primus five-two-seven-five. Route it to this reciever and I want an Axah-level quantum encryption.'' Security guard - As you wish sir.

The guard looks at the device's base to find an IP code and uses his terminal to link it up. He hands the device back giving the agent a nod. The agent returned to his ship and breathed deeply before linking the device to a HUD strapped over his left eye, smiling gleefuly.

Varutahira is born
It has been several weeks since 7341's last visit. When he returned the Kraw woman was fully grown and still floating in the fluid. When he arrived orovus greeted him with a blank expression.

Orovos - Sir, good to have you back and i'm glad you were able to respond so promotly. 7341 - You told me that she has made progress since I last arrived, how so? Orovos - ''She's stable and fully matured, the memories you fabricated have been fully implanted and the nanite serum has been applied. The assistants are affectinately calling her Varutahira.'' 7341 - Hmm, where did they get the name? Orovus - ''From me, apparently. Varutan means "Liberation" In High Dracoid.'' 7341 - I don't get it.. Orovus - The assistants think that we're liberating Kies's mind with this project. 7341 - ''Look. I want no screw-ups otherwise this whole gambit would be for nothing.''

Orovus nods with dissolusion. When they enter the main chamber she stil floated there, almost lifeless.

Orovus - Ovorlik, prepare for her release.'' Ovorlik - Yes professor.''

Ovorlik, A Terradixian worked a control planel at the side of the room. The tans lowly drains and her body jerked as a mild electrical shock woke her up. She looked around, dazed as the fluid level fell, draining out of the bottom of the tube. Her vision was blurred as she opened her eyes for the first time, her hearing is muffled as all her senses try to adjust themselves, the resulting effect was that she was very disorientated.

Varutahira - ...Wh-wh-wha... Orovos - Beautiful isn't she... Varutahira - Wh-what happened?

As she felt dazed Orovos walked up to the tank, the inner walls still moist with fluid. he crouched down to her level with a warm smile.

Orovus - H-hello there. Varutahira - Who-who are you? Orovus - ''My name is Orobus Drevinum. You are safe here.'' Varutahira - Why am I here? Orovus - ''Your ship was attacked by pirates while you were returning home. We managed to recover you but your body was severely damaged.'' Varutahira - ''Oh, I see... it was a close one...'' Orovus - Do you remember your life before the attack? Varutahira - ''Yes... I was on a trip to Vagrahk... then I was attacked.'' 7341 - She's stable then?

Orovos turned and nodded to the agent. He then turned his focus back to Varutahira.

7341 - Good. Orovus - We'll have you out of here, someone get this woman a towel. Varutahira - Anyways, thank you, now, can you get me back home? Orovus - We can, but we need your help. Varutahira - What is it?

With a nod from Orovos the walls of the tube lift up, an assistant walks over and hands Orovus a large towel. He handed the towel to her and she wrapped it around herself, shivering slightly.

7341 - Professor, report to me when you are done making our guest comfortable? Orovus - What do you remember of the Galactic Empire of Cyrannus. Varutahira - ''I was in vacation to Orbispira a year ago when they formed, then afterwards, I saw the TAE getting attacked by them... it's awful... how did we ally with them?'' Orovus - Apparently one of the Emperor's senior governors approached Kies, offering support. Varutahira - Indeed... Orovus - ''Not everyone thinks that Kies is making the right decision. What do you feel when you thin about him?'' Varutahira - ''I love him... I want him to be my husband... but I know that's impossible... he's too good for me.'' Orovus - We can help you, He is a good man inside but on the outside he's a little rash. Varutahira - ''Indeed... but I don't think I'll ever get him to love me...'' Orovus - ''I wouldn't be so sure. But before we unite him with you we have a favour to ask.'' Varutahira - Ok, what is it? Orovus - ''Kies does not realise that the GEC has allied itself with the Delpha Coalition of Planets. And this protectorate agreement of theirs makes them part of the Empire.''

She jerked as the memories that had been made for her come flooding in, she flickered her eyes before returning to normal. The event occured for a brief second but the memories were there.

Varutahira - ''What?! Oh Kies...'' Orovus - ''He will not listen to anyone, dimissing truth as a fabrication. But if he was to hear from someone he trusted completely...'' Varutahira - Indeed... Orovus - ''We will get you to Kies we will unite you with him, but he must. know. the truth.'' Varutahira - Yes. Orovus - How are you feeling? Varutahira - Fine. Orovus - ''We just need to run some tests, get you some clothes and then we shall see about returning you to Honehronie. Varutahira - Very well.

She is guided to the station's medical centre for a medical examination and after an hour is given a clean bill of health. After the tests she dressed herself using a set of clothes she found in a wardrobe in the room and was approached by 7341 as she was putting on the last item of clothing.

Varutahira - Hello, how was everything? 7341 - ''Productive. We will keep you safe, don't worry. And here.''

The agent hands Varutahira a small earpiece that fit snugly and discreetly into the rim of her ear.

7341 - Use this to keep in contact with us. Varutahira - Very well. 7341 - Safe journey, there is a club in Byarg Kies likes to visit, you will msot-likely find him there. Varutahira - Oh, the Imperialfest! 7341 - ''There is someone in Byarg yo can talk to if you feel the need, her name is Kohira. You may remember her? Varutahira - Yeah. 7341 - There is a shuttle waiting in the loading bay, safe journey. Varutahira - Ok, goodbye.

Varutahira boarded the shuttle the Draconis had provided, after she left the solar system a device in the back of her neck activated the nanites who flooded her brain, promting her to fall asleep as the ship began an autopilot route to Honehronie. The nanites suppressed her memory of the station itself. In the corners of her mind she would have flickering memories of speaking to a figure about Kies, the Imperialfest and the GEC. She woke up in the cabin, looking around unsure where she was. The shuttle door opened and Kohira, a Kraw woman Varutahira remembered as a an old friend, stepped in slightly worried.

Kohira - You okay? Varutahira - Yeah, just had a wierd day. Kohira - Wanna talk about it? Varutahira - ''I don't renember much... I can't tell what happened...'' Kohira - Tell you what, how about we head down to the Imperialfest for a cool drink or two. Varutahira - Yeah, sure. Kohira - *shrugs* maybe we'll get lucky too. Varutahira - Indeed.

Love at First Sight
Varutahira and Kohira arrived at the Imperialfest on the night Horkarew had suggested. It was very busy with a night of very popular Kraw dance music playing. Kohira gave off the impression she had been working hard that day.

Kohira - I urgh, i though that day would never end. Varutahira - Indeed. AI - ''Welcome to Imperialfest! Emperor Kies is here today!''

The public cheered at the announcement, the DJ changed the music being played from dance to hardcore techno.

Kohira - ''Wow! I would so love for Kies to dance with me.'' Varutahira - Where is he?

Kies was dancing with 3 other Kraw in a far end of the main room. These other Kraw were secretly bodyguards whom Kies had chosen to protect him while he danced, these guards were also chosen because they enjoyed the club. Both Kohira and Varutahira looked at him, dreaming of what it must have been like to dance with him.

Kohira - ''What i would give to have a dance with him. He is so cute.'' Varutahira - ''Yes, he's quite awesome indeed... I think I'll approach him...'' Kohira - Are you sure you don't want to drink something first? Varutahira - I'm not thirsty.

Kohira shrugged and headed to the bar counter, leaving Varutahira to approach kies slowly and nervously. She was first noticed by the bodyguards and then by Kies. He looked at her, spechless, as she nervously approached him. He examined her before looking at her face.

Kies - Who are you? Varutahira - Varutahira Alsherkek. Kies - ''How do I put it... you are cute.'' Varutahira - Hehe, Thanks!'' Kies - I'd take you want to be my partner. Varutahira - Sure!

As they both danced together Kohira looked on deviously and tapped her ear, activating a subvocal earpiece built into her disguise. No-one could tell she was not really a Kraw but no-one seemed to pay attention anyway.

Kohira - She's started phase-1. ??? - ''Good. Make sure it continues that way.'' Kies - ''Varutahira, you're the best woman I've seen in so many years... You have everything I like about Kraw... Varutahira - Hehehe...'' Kohira - Those brains of yours worked like a charm. 259 - What's she doing now? Kohira - Dancing with Kies, isn't that cute? 259 - Stay focused agent, make sure the sensor feeds from those nanites leave the planet securely. Kraw Guard - Are you sure it's safe to let her dance with- Kies - Oh come on, let me live my life, It's the new year!

They continued to dance with each other for another thre hours. Kies was the last one to leave the club and he had decided to take Varutahira with hi mto the imperial tower.

Kohira - Advisor, Kies is on the move. 259 - ''Don't worry.. we have full view of the situation.'' Kohira - I'm glad someone does... Kies - ''You were exceptional. Want to go to my tower? We can rest there.''

Kies decided to show her around the tower, showing her around the guards. She is introduced to each of them as she passes and there were a lot. Kohira's supervisor observed everything through the microcamera in her body and was using her own earpiece as a listening device.

Varutahira - You're so heavily guarded, why? Kies - ''To keep me safe. I have a duty and people are after me, sadly...'' Varutahira - Is it necessary? Kies - Yes. Varutahira - Ok, just checking.

Varutahira was taken to the main room of the palace, at the far end was Kies's throne and with it he could control the dfences of the entire planet.

Kies - State of the art technology, much better than what the Draconis or the TIAF have. Varutahira - Heh pretty nice, I wonder, where do you do your duties? Kies - My Imperial seat. Varutahira - Wow...

Kies sat on his throne, it was the dead of night s ono-one saw him. Pushing a few buttons he drew out a set of controls

Kies - ''All for whatever reason. I could black out the planet in case of Solar flares, I could draw turrets, I could do many things, but I'm not telling you everything. But anyways, I'm taking a break.''

Kies retired to his room, the cieling was low and there was only one small window to see outside.

Kraw - ''You can enter, by the way. I have a television.'' Varutahira - ''Oh wow... You really do like me...'' Kies - Of course.

Unknown to Kies, the plan set up by the Imperium's RIA was working perfectly. No-one had suspected what was going on, not even the mega-paranoid Kies. At the end of the day he invited Varutahira into his bed to sleep, they both closed their eyes smiling lovingly at each other. In an unknown location the advisor grinned uncontrollably since the Imperium now had a sleper agent as a consort of the emperor. By being fully-tuned to her senses they could see everything.

259 - ''Sir, phase-1 is complete. Operation Siren-43 is green.'' Mentracus - ''Good. Make. sure. Those two stay together until the time is right. We must not fail!'' 259 - ''And then? WHat happens to the girl when she has revealed everything?'' Mentracus - Varutahira will then be expendeble, but she would be useful as a spy...

Herald the Inquisition
A few days later 259 was observing data gathered from Varutahira when something shocked him. The microcamera had picked up a fleeting glymps of the cult warship but the 10-pointed star was clear as day. Examaining further data he discovered that a fleet using this same ship had attacked the Brood of War and afterward Varutahira had seen Kies speaking to a Manahayan. Agent 259 had no choice and contacted Arsac of Drakon's Inquisition. He dispatched the information to the Inquisition's command senter underneath the grand cathedral on Alcanti.

Arsac scanned through the data, the soft smell of incense hung in the air of her quarters. Upon seeing footage of the star and the Mahanayan she slammed her fist on the table cying out

"Gods damn that blind, Kranndung-faced and ignorant fool Kies to the lowest and darkest depths of the void!"

A passing cleric knocked on the door, heraing the commotion from her room.

Cleric - ''Mistress? Is everything alright?'' Arsac - 'Inform the senior council AND the Archcleric that Kies has sided with the Legion of the Deathmarch. I want it screamed thoughout the heavens the fool is to be branded a heretic for siding with those hell-spawned abominations!' Cleric - .... Yes mistress, the council will be informed.

The cleric was startled by Arsac's outburst but it would not take long before the news spread throughout Imperial command to warn of potential Deathmarch incursions. Arsac would later meet with the Inquisition's senior ocuncil to decide what to do. Within the central chamber a dozen senior inquisitors sat with Arsac at the far end, infuriated.

Senior Vuredus - Mistress Arsac, can you plese inform us what has happened? Arsac - ''Kies has sided with the Legion of the Deathmarch. We have firsthand footage that not only shows one of their ships landing in the capital but he was talking to a scraving Mahanayan!'' Senior Assava - Do you have the proof?'' Arsac - ''Do i HAVE it? Of course I have it. We may have ignored the Kraw Empire's previous incursions but not even the Zazane can stand up to a force like that. How do we even know he won't point that fat sausage of a finger at one of our planets.'' Senior Vuredus - Mistress, we understand you are angry but what are we to do?'' Arsac - ''Deploy fleets to protect against these incursions, inquisitors are to be posted in kraw space as command forces and the Imperial Talon Navy. As for Kies... I want to know how much of his sanity was lost from this deal.'' Senior Assava - Pardon me but are you suggesting we kidnap the emperor of the Kraw Empire?'' Arsac - ''Capture, interrogate, mind-scan, whatever. Either he ccalls this deal off or he goes to the Realm of Absolution. ''The Inquisition does not tolerate allies of the Cult of the Deathmarch in any shape or form. Kies will have to learn the hard way there are consequences to his actions.'' Assava - ''Very well mistress. We will inform the Lord-Admiral to secure the situation, the PAragon's new viceroy to that galaxy is not going to enjoy the news.'' Arsac - ''She will have to accept one way or another. The Kraw might never aprove of us kidnapping their 'beloved' emperor, but station does not shield you from our gaze.'' Vuredos - Exactly how did you come accross this information? Arsac - ''You're asking me how the RIA gets it's information? Personally i don't know but whatever the source it, it must be very close to Kies.''

Arsac returned ot her quarters, weary and frustrated. As she lit another incense bowl the computer on her desk notified for an incoming message, after taking a few deep breaths she moved to her desk to examine it. The screen changed from normal to the RIA's emblam and a heavily modified voice spoke through to her.

Mentracus - I understnd you want Kies to feel justice but I would like just one request. Arsac - ''Mentracus... You may be one of the most elusive men in the galaxy but you are sorely mistaken if you think I would accept taking orders from you, so i'm not in the very best of moods.'' Mentracus - ''Oh i understand lady. I understand. However I have... plans, for Kies.'' Arsac - You're not making much sense... Mentracus - ''The RIA is currently working within the Kraw Empire, the information is classified but it will come to fruition in time. All I ask is that you postpone acting on your declaration of heresy.'' Arsac - I am sure you know but- Mentracus - ''I know about his dealings. Keep your inquisitiors at bay until I give a later signal.''

The message was abruptly ended from his end, Arsac sat in her quarters staring blankly at the screen. SHe decided she may as well go with what she was asked because she knew on the outside that whatever he was doing it would be for the Imperium's benefit.

Kies is Told the Truth
It had been 14 KRE days since the two had first met. In that time Kies had grown fond of Varutahira, going so far as to eventually propose an engagement. After the celebration Varutahira was with Kies in his bedroom, still overwhelmed by what had happened that night. He sat down beside her and rested his hand on her back.

Varutahira - ''Kies I... I don't know what to say. 14 days ago we only just met...'' Kies - Trust me, it will go on for much longer. Varutahira - ''I have loved you since the day we met. but... I'm not sure if being a protectorate of the empire is good for the galaxy. I saw what happened to those TAE colonies.'' Kies - ...I saw what happened too, but ever since the GEC proposed to defend our galaxy I had to accept, everyone's ganging up on me, I'm sure you understand. Varutahira - ''I saw the news, the empire... They attacked without mercy and shot at anyone who tried to evacuate when the fleets came. They were almost identical to the old URC warships.'' Kies - ''I'm not sure... But anyways, they seem to have improved.'' Varutahira - Before I returned rumour was spreading of an alliance with the DCP. Kies - Say what?'' Varutahira - Apparently the DCP were attracted to the empire's camaign for dominance, something about wanting to abolish democracy. Kies - ... Where can I find a log? Varutahira - I can show you on my computer. Kies - Do it.

Varutahira turned on her laptop and looks up a specific file. Unkown to both og them the Imperiium's Royal Intelligence Agency had created a false record suggesting that the DCP was manipulating the GEC. Kies was fully taken in by the fabrication. Sitting speechless he stood up furiously grabbed a spear and threw it at the window. The spear bounced off the window due to reinforcement but the damage was done. Kies exploded with rage.

Kies - I DON'T BELIEVE THIS HAS HAPPENED BEHIND MY BACK!

He kept slamming the spear repeatedly against the window, the display frightened Varutahira as she backed away.

Kies - ''WHAT! HAVE! THEY! DONE! BEHIND! OUR! BACKS! I WILL DEMAND AN EXPLANATION!''

Kies furiously stomed out of the room, with Varutahira folowing him, deeply concerned at what he was doing.

Varutahira - ''Kies... this was before they approached you...'' Kies - ''Before? Then why are they messing with us! I will demand an explanation!'' Varutahira - ''I.. I don't know...'' Kies - ''Trust me. If they really are messing with us I will get the Cult of the Deathmarch on them.''

Kies then contacted the GEC, deeply concerned about this issue. Imperator Tyranus then told Kies that the GEC was attempting to manipulate the DCP through an alliance, though it took a lot of conviction to get Kies to accept that as fact. Kies wondered about the DCP and their plans, however, he had more to do. He reached the universal database from his computer and got a frequency to contact the Khaxvis, who he then scheduled a meeting with for the next day. If Kies was going to need new allies, the Khaxvis were apparently for Kies, the best choice. Kies later fell asleep with Varutahira, awaiting the next day.

Hunting for Allies
Varutahira awoke to see kies preparing himself, getting dressed and gathering travel supplies. She looked at him and he looked back with a grievous look, his mind was focused on a matter of state.

Kies - I'm going on a jorney to the Khaxvis Empire. Varutahira - Why? Kies - ''I would like to meet them, so that in the future I can discuss relations with them. You may come if you want.'' Varutahira - ''I.. I don't know. I've heard bad things about them.'' Kies - ''You shouldn't believe everything the universe tells you, only at the meeting will I know what to think of them, it's called first hand experience. Now, I shall be leaving, want to come?'' Varutahira - ''Airight. I don't want to see you hurt.'' Kies - Very well.

Both of them entered his personal Lengtaar ship later that day. Flying towards a Kaxvis enclave that had been revealed to them by the Dagorian Mercenarium. The Khaxvis were expecting him and he was taken inside one of their planetside fortresses. Kies and Varutahira were greeted by a female Draconis wearing gold-embridered robes.

Khaxvis - ''Kies... So glad you could make it.'' Kies - ''Thank you. This is my girlfriend, Varutahira. She's my one true love.'' Khaxvis - ''I see... What is this about...'' Kies - I'd like to get to know your culture better, because I believe you people are better than the Draconis. Khaxvis - ''Really? We approve of your opinion.'' Kies - ''Thank you. May I have a seat, as well as my girlfriend?'' Khaxvis - ''Sit, the least we can be is... hospitable.''

Kies was aken to a small side room decorated comfortably. Varutahira discreetly dropped a small listening device, out of notice of anyone in the room.

Khaxvis - As i understand it you are in somewhat poor favour with the Imperium, Is there something about them you're not happy about? Kies - ''Everything, they allied our 2nd worst enemies, the Brood of War, and made a commonwealth with them! Also, their house system and executions get on my nerves. And I believe they're going to enslave us soon if we don't kick them out.'' Khaxvis - Does it bother you that we shair their opinion of the house system? Kies - That it's crap? Khaxvis - We still enforce the house system, however uner our leadership it would be one government ruled by one house! Kies - Will you allow the people to choose the leader, however, because that would be nice to them. Khaxvis - There is ony one man destined t oreturn us to power, the great Volkarus! Kies - Ok, very well, I assume he is unanimously popular? Khaxvis - Indeed! Kies - ''Oh that's a relief. Anyways, we Kraw are happy that you're not falling to the Draconis's deciet, tell us more about your culture. If you want us to tell you ours, here's a disc.''

Kies pulled out a chip-disk containing information on Kraw culture.

Khaxvis - ''We emphasise strength and purity. For millenia we have improved ourseves with genetics and cybernetics to make us superior. Weakness and hesitation is not tolerated.'' Kies - ''Uhhh, what if someone is sick or born weak, or is hesitant of doing something? Don't they deserve a chance?'' Khaxvis - We support the sick, return them to strength and if they are born weak we MAKE them strong! Kies - ''Oh good, what about the hesitant? Are they given diffrent jobs?'' Khaxvis - ''If you show hesitation it suggests you are a coward. And cowarddice is weakness.'' Kies - ''So what do you do to cure cowardice? Cowardice is in all of us.'' Khaxvis - ''It may be in all of us but you must fight against the urge. We are all trained to do so.'' Kies - ''Uhhh, ok. You know cowardice is natural, right?'' Khaxvis - And what point is there in fostering it? Kies - I don't mean foster it, just tolerate it. Khaxvis - ''You simply tolerate it? Not good enough.'' Kies - Uh, why? Khaxvis - Because if you simply tolerate it cowards would still prosper! Kies - Why should the cowards be discriminated, everyone should be equal regardless of everything.

The woman leaned forward, somewhat agitated on Kies's lenient stance twoards cowardice.

Khaxvis - ''Because. Cowards. Are. Weak.'' Kies - ''Let's stop talking about this, it's obvious that our cultures are a bit apart on that issue. Anyways, tell us about military and such.'' Khaxvis - We rely on mercenaries and volunteers to fight for us, our numbers are sadly too few to take on the entire Imperium. Kies - ''Nice. It's great that you don't give in to compulsorism unlike the Draconis.'' Khaxvis - Our kind are still expected to serve for the purpose, one way or another. Kies - Rephrase that please?

Varutahira was momentarily silent.

Khaxvis - ''The resurgence exists to restore house Khaxvis to the Imperial throne. We frown on kin not doing their part.'' Kies - What if one is unable for some re- oh right you heal them, but is everyone 100% willing? Khaxvis - Of course, they are brought up to do their part. Kies - ''Ok. Anyways, before I go, I'd like to tell you that the info on our culture is in that disk-chip.'' Khaxvis - Fine.

Kies and Varutahira later returned to Kraw Galaxy space. As they travelled Varutahira felt he had to know and decided to show him when they returned to the palace.

Varutahira - You're not really consdiering allying with them are you? Kies - ''Perhaps I am, perhaps not, but at least they're better than the Draconis. Foul brood allying beasts...'' Varutahira - ''Something was wrong. Something felt very wrong.'' Kies - Explain. Varutahira - ''They.. They reminded me in some ways of the Brood.'' Kies - ''... In what way?'' Varutahira - ''Their dedication, their obsession with with a single goal, their hatred of 'weakness'. It all sounds familiar.'' Kies - I'll think further about it. Varutahira - Kies..

Varutahira showed him footage she aquired of a mortal Volkarus glaring at one of his mercenary officers before knocking him down and plunging his sword into the mercenary's chest. As Kies watched he felt horrified.

Kies - Who's-who's that? Varutahirs - That was Volkarus.. Kies - ''Oh my... Do you happen to have more of these to show to the council?'' Varutahira - A few... Kies - Show me.

She showed him more, more mercenaries, more executions. Each one brutal and scar-inducing. Kies became doubtful at what he was getting himself into. Varutahira then played a recording from the listening device which was still in the Khaxvis chambers, he overheard them calling him a 'potential pawn for the master'.

Kies - '''THEY CALLED ME WHAT?! HOW DARE THEY!'''

Varutahira backed away as Kies picked up a hammer in frustration and repeatedly hitting a wall with it, shouting words even he thought was nonsense. Kies - '''EXTERMINATE THE WHOLE SPECIES! ALL OF THEM ARE BAD!'''

Kies would end up calming down after 1 hour, extremely frustrated.

Kies - ''I'm so angry, also, all those extermination quotes, don't take them seriously. Show everything to the council. We can't let Khaxvis secure colonies in the Kraw Galaxy. They're just as bad as those damn Draconis.'' Varutahira - ''Maybe.. Maybe they are not so bad?'' Kies - ''Explain. You're a good info gatherer, tell me why I should care for those morons.'' Varutahira - Have they done anything bad since they settled in the galaxy? Kies - Yes, allied the brood, threaten us... Varutahira - How do they threaten?

Kies explained how the Draconis had been acting towards him before finally deciding to order their exile from the Kraw Galaxy. Varutahira gave a concerned sigh.

Varutahira - You were acting a bit of an arse. Kies - Hm? Varutahira - ''Take their announcement about those viceroies. You warned them there would be consequences if thet forcefully absorbed anyone.'' Kies - Yes, we must care for every living thing in the Kraw Galaxy. Varutahira - But what did your outburst have to do with the new viceroys? Kies - ''I was merely giving a warning. If they mess with our Galaxy they shall pay.'' Varutahira - Is it possible they took your warning the wrong way? Kies - How? Varutahira - Maybe they thought you saw them as bloodthirsty expansionists and that insulted them? Kies - ''I'm no expansonist. Take me as the white knight of the Kraw Galaxy.'' Varutahira - No no no, other way around. Kies - Huh? Varutahira - Perhaps THEY thought YOU thought they were expansionists. Kies - ''Hmph! They seem to be the expansionists here, protectorates, much?'' Varutahira - Have they aquired any since their arrival in Kraw? Kies - They're preparing to, not yet, but they will. Varutahira - ''You see this is why they lash out. You are paranoid and it is showing.'' Kies - ''Me? Paranoid?'' Varutahira - Yes...

Kies started thinking a lot on the issue, until he made a decision.

Kies - I need to speak with the council on this...

They returned to the Kraw capital where Kies stood up in the large and sleek assembly room of the council.

Kies - ''Council, I have a question, am I too... paranoid?''

The council was very divided on the subject. They bicker for a while arging with opinions with no clear end to the debate.

Kies supporter - Kies is merely defending us! Kies opposer - There have been more battles in the range of 1 year than the 3 previous years! Kies supporter - They don't want to get kicked out, it must be done by force! Kies opposer - You can't kick them out, what if they didn't even want to do anything for a change?!

Varutahira entered the chaos, worried about Kies.

Varutahira - ''Kies. I have been by your side for weeks now. From what i can see you are paranoid.'' Opposers - She's his girlfriend, she's more active with him than all of us combined! Supporters - How is it that Kies had a girlfriend NOW? Opposer - Imperialfest...'' Kies - People, please!'' Opposer - Let's see what Daaxri himself thinks, he's the council's leader.

Daaxri stood up, he was the empire's prime minister and in had been in charge of state affairs while Kies was working on Operation: Freedom.

Daaxri - ''Kies... you need a vacation. You are lashing out at things too much...''

Kies thought hard on Daaxri's words, and made a decision, though a very difficult one.

Kies - ''... Very well... I'll go on the vacation. I'll be leaving Inhraahk in charge then.'' Opposer - Inhraahk may be far less paranoid but he's just as bad! Kies - ''I have decided. I cannot let our security fade like that. Inhraahk will know what to do.''

Kies left the building and Inhraahk wass declared the temporary substitute of the Emperor. At no point did he say anything, quietly taking Kies's place while the former went on vacation.

Unexpected allies
Leondias sat in his office with a half-empty bottle of Irivian vintage on the side of his desk. For the past week he had been looking over the reports; Deathmarch, Gros, and now the ultimatum. The imperium had decided to evacuae the secotr's civillian population leaving enough people to keep the system together. He struggled to keep his head level, still sore from the night of drinking before and he was squeezing the rubber ball in his hand. The buzz from his comm made him groan in agony before pressing the button.

Leondias - Who is it? Secretary - Viceroy Dracia to see you sir. Leondias - If she's going to whine then tell her i'm busy. Secretary - She's looking rather insistent, sir. Leondias - ''Urgh, fine... send her in.''

Dracia entered wearing an elaborate dark blue dress and a frilled crest around her neck. Her fingers were adorned with jewelery.

Leondias - What can I do for you ma'am? Dracia - Admiral, what are the chances the ITN could prevail against the Deathmarch? Leondias - ''Viceroy. A splinter fleet of theirs nearly tore the surface of the Brood world of Dargul apart. And if reports are right that skraving hypercuiser of theirs is ten-times the size of the Shivarus, with hyperlasers as its main batteries. I would imagine it could have destroyed the entire solar system if it wanted to.'' Dracia - How exactly are you going to counter it? Leondias - ''Frak if I know! The Brood never stood a chance.'' Dracia - They were not expecti- Leondias - ''Viceroy, fighting is in te Zazane's nature. If were not expecting something to attack them then they must have been a different species. However i'm sure they can be forgiven since no-one has seen a hypercruiser since the evacuations.'' Dracia - ''Admiral is theresomething I should know? You seem tense and irritable today.''

Leondias digs his claws into his ball in frustration. Inhaling deeply.

Leondias - ''Tense? Tense? I don't think you've noticed but thanks to your order I have had to make sure that four billion people are returned to Andromeda safely, along with having to make sure the extra three billion soldiers that came from the other sectors are settling in. Along with that, Kies could drop a hypercruiser on this sector without warning and leave nothing but molten rock. Yes I am tense!'' Dracia - Perhaps I should relieve you of duty? Leonidas - ''I have been in this sector for at least a year now. The soldiers know me, the people know me, they know I get things done! Is there anything else, your majesty?'' Dracia - ''I will be travelling to the United Lanat Empire for a summons. I would like an escort and to keep this low profile.'' Leondias - You're asking the bugs for help? Dracia - ''They have been here longer than us, with colonies that were set up prior to this... genocide I have been hearing about. They could be useful.''

Leondias slowly calmed down, loosening the grip on his ball but stil lholding it tightly.

Leondias - If you're gonig to be making friends you may want to talk to Tyraz as well. Dracia - I think he's preoccupied with the new commonwealth. Leondias - ''The commonwealth... Remind me to strangle that blue midget for thinking the commonwealth was formed to undermine him because thanks to that I have had to play babysitter for the evacuation this past week.'' Dracia - I can tell you're irritated so I will take my leave.

Dracia turned around and headed out of the door, with Leondias waving his arm limply as if to say she should hurry on her way. He then span around in his chair to look out the window, noticing the now-endless stream of cargo liners, yaghts and cruise liners leading for the Andromedan wormhole. He bgan muttering to himself as he boured hismelf another glass of wine.

Leondias - ''Kies I swear I will sever your head from your shoulders with my own hands. Because of you, this post is a skraving nightmare.''

Return of the Blue Imps
"What do you mean they are back?!"

At the Milky Way Galaxy, the had heard the news about the reformation of the FRA. The Gros were one of the most cruel participants of the Asgord Genocide, having not only murdered, but also enslaved and brainwashed millions of Asgords. Now the FRA was back, and was expecially angered.

Calling his highest general,, Gnorvi started to plot what he never expected to do: return to the Kraw Galaxy.

Gnorvi - I though our allies of the ULE had extincted these weaklings years ago. Kolger - According to my research, the survivors were secluded in a Federation and then were fred some time after by one of these...Kraw. Gnorvi - ''So there is a species called the same as the galaxy? How silly.'' Kolger - ''Indeed. And this same Kraw has been turned into emperor, and he is now plotting against our ally!'' Gnorvi - What? Kolger - He plans to kick the ULE out of the galaxy, sir.

Gnorvi respected very few aliens, and the Tralor were among these few. In these years they were allied, the Gros had a considerable growth due to their trading and slave enchanging.

Gnorvi - ''In this case, we have two objectives. Our primary one is to send this infernal republic back to the Stone Age it belongs once again. And our secondary one is to aid the ULE, if they need it. But they are more powerful than us, I doubt they would need assistance.'' Kolger - Understood, your majesty. Gnorvi - ''Now go. Get more Asgordian slaves. Make them pay for being so stupidly weak!''

Kolger and his fleet travelled to the Kraw Galaxy, where they started to build a space station which would serve as their headquarters. The Gros were back, and ready to fight again...

Attack on Take'enes
It was a pleasant day on the FRA colony of Take'enes. Several Asgord were enjoying the circus which had just come into town. However, things were about to get messy when Commandant Kolger's fleet approached the planet. The ships descended into the atmosphere, and as usual, were greeted with no defenses at all.

Gros Captain - They still refuse to defend themselves, just like last time. Kolger - ''Seems like they'll never learn, huh? Let's teach them a lesson or two.''

The Gros unleashed several of their massive Cheurith slaves into the ground, which were tasked to attack the citizens and buildings. The Asgords of the new generation greeted them like they always did, while the old generation ones seeked cover. The Gros fleet razed the planet in little time, but many Asgord managed to escape in safety.

The FRA would not simply scream in fear this time, though...

Vonzata'akanau - Yes, the ones identified as "Gros" have just attacked us! Inhraahk - ''Do not worry. The Kraw will aid you in defeating this invasion.''

Failed Proposal
The Gros fleet moved on to the next planet, when they received a transmission from Emperor Kies. Kolger heard about Kies back at the Milky Way but never actually saw him in person.

Kies - Unidentified ship, please, halt your actions now! Kolger - ''Huh? Who has the guts to contact us like this?'' Kies - ''I do. The leader of the whole Kraw Galaxy.''

Kolger laughed loudly at Kies.

Kolger - ''Leader, eh? You must be that Kies everyone's talking about back at Plazith. You got youselves a bad reputation.'' Kies - It matters not. Kolger - ''Hah. I do not care if all the empires in this region are yours lackeys or not, I do not follow your orders.'' Kies - Then we will declare war, right Tyrekians? Slaki - ''We are focusing solely on the ULE campaign now. Once we're done with that.' Kies - Fine...

Kolger actually felt insulted by Kies's threat. He got up and approached the screen.

Kolger - ''War? With us? Look, you blue dot, what we are doing is better for all of us.''

Kolger pointed back, showing an enslaved Asgord.

Asgord - I got the biggest headache! Kolger - ''These creatures are a scourge! They deserve no other fate!'' Kies - ''**** you for thinking that! The Asgord are peace incarnate!'' Kolger - ''Peace is for the weak, scum. If it's war you want, then it's war you're gonna get. Emperor Gnorvi shall be satisfied when I note him your species will be the next in enslaving process...'' Kies - We shall destroy you. Kolger - We'll see about that.

The fleet stopped and changed direction. Kolger was now searching the the nearest Kraw planet he could find...

Animal Cruelty
The Gros weren't going to leave Kies simply insult them like that. They are known to hold grudges, and they had just created one with the Kraw. Reaching the nearest planet of the Kraw Empire, Kolger's fleet opened fire immediately. The Kraw on the planet were unprepared for the attack and were catched by surprise.

Ground troops landed on the planet and attacked. The Kraw were fairly decent in ground battles, but the Gros' Cheurith and Poison Cloud slaves gave them extra firepower. A Gros trooper approached a home, where a Kraw man protected his wife.

Gros - ''Bah, look at you! Weak and scared!'' Kraw Man - Leave us alone!

It was then that the couple's pet baby appeared, and the Gros noticed it. Being annoyed by the small creature, the Gros grabbed it and stabbed his claws through the poor critter's body, killing it. The Kraw woman yelled.

Kraw woman - Not our Zalkarg! Gros - ''You care so much about this thing? Well look at what I do with it!''

The Gros approached and literally rubbed the baby into the couple's faces, before killing both with his blaster. Nearby Gros troopers, amused by what happened, started to hunt Zalkargs as well. Some hours later, the planet was lost and the remaining Kraw evacuated while they could.

Kolger, satisfied with the victory, had something in mind now.

Gros Scientist - Our attack was a success, sir. Kolger - ''Excellent. Everyone get back to the station for resupplies and repairs. Now get me one of these pig bugs! I wanna know how they taste like...''

Zazanaarg Intervention
Kies - If you could send me some of your men to help me with this, I would be very grateful. Traazrag Breyk - ''It would be an honour, Emperor Kies! I'm sending some troopers to the planet immediately!''

Kolger's fleet approached the Kraw planet of Kotraar, expecting another easy victory and some more Zalkarg for his next lunch. The splinter fleet sent to the planet was really small, the Gros not taking the Kraw seriously, and expecting the battle to be rather short.

They, however, were very wrong about it. The Zazanaarg, a rebel group of who joined the Kraw Empire, were also present in the planet after Kies noticed the Gros fleet approaching it. The Zazane are among the strongest creatures known, and these would prove invaluable for the Kraw defenses. As the Gros deployed their ground forces, they were surprised to see the Zazanaarg. The forces clashed, with the Zazanaarg easily defeating the Gros's slaves. Not even the mighty Cheuriths were match for this unexpected enemy.

Kolger - What the hell is going on down there! Gros Scientist - These blue lizards seem to have gotten some help. Kolger- Blast!

Kolger grabbed his radio and tried to contact the ground commander.

Kolger - Captain G'mila, do you read? G'mila - I'm here, sir! Kolger - ''How are we losing so much forces? This was supposed to be an easy strike!'' G'mila - ''They have these tall dragon-like creatures, sir! They seem impervious to our gunfire and strong enough to wrestle the Cheuriths! I don't know what to...aaargh!''

Kolger crushed his radio in rage as the captain was killed by the Kraw. He pointed at his scientists, angered.

Kolger - Retreat maneuver, now!

The Gros fleet fled Kotraar, winning the day for the Kraw. However, the Zazanaarg weren't that abundant, and Commandant Kolger would certainly think fo ways to deal with them.

Attack on Farne'enes
Frustrated by the loss at Kotraar, the Gros fleet decided to attack the FRA once more. The Gros forces couldn't suffer losses, as reinforcements wouldn't arrive until many days. The planet chosen was the peaceful colony of Farne'enes. However, the Gros didn't know that was waiting for them, expecting them to attack the planet after studying their route. Gros Scientist - Sir, we got a problem... Kolger - What is it? Gros Scientist - It seems like they guessed we would come here... Kolger - What?!

In the planet, a Kraw fleet was awaiting for them. Kraw and Zazanaarg were already on the ground, ready to take on the Gros' forces. Kolger grunted, but then started to laugh.

Kolger - ''If you don't want me to take the Asgordians, then I'll just destroy them! All forces, prepare glassing cannons! Turn this misbegotten rock into a fiery hell!''

The fleet battled the Kraw while also glassing the planet's surface, killing troopers and citizens alike. The Kraw immediately ordered their ground forces to retreat, seeing that the Gros had abandoned the ground battlefield. However, it wasn't all bad news for the Kraw. With Eko's coordination, the Kraw fleet managed to identify weak spots in the Gros fleet and exploited them the most they could.

Kolger's flagship was suffering damage and he was starting to lose ships as well. Perhaps he had understimated the inhabitants of the Kraw Galaxy.

Kolger - I cannot believe I'm suffering losses to them...retreat back to the space station!

The Gros retreated, but the planet was lost, making the battle a draw. Many Asgords were saved by the Kraw forces, fortunatly.

Kies - So you believe you can find their base? Eko - ''Yes. Give me some days and we'll strike right into the heart of the problem...''

Kolger's Strategy
Commandant Kolger only had 2/3 of his fleet left after the losses to the Kraw. He was incredibly angry at it, even more than his usual behavior. He sat on his chair and held his head, while one of his privates brought him a cup of water. One of his scientists approached.

Kolger - ''What is it? Can't you see I'm trying to think?'' Scientist - Sir, we have a new strategy. Kolger - ''Oh? Go on.''

The scientist invited Kolger to the ship's meeting room, where the rest of the scientist crew were already waiting. One of them clicked a button which showed a holographic image of the fleet.

Scientist - ''Commandant, as you can see, we have studied the weak stops of the fleet here, here and here. We've already established defenses on them, as well as changed the fleet's position slighty to leave it less exposed.'' Kolger - Hmmm...they were exploiting these to destroy our ships, then. Scientist - ''Yes. We have though of a new strategy to completely wreck these Kraw scumbags for once.''

The scientist pressed another button, now showing a simulated battle between the Gros and the Kraw.

Scientist - ''First of all, no more ground deployment. They have these "Zazane" with them, and we cannot properly deal with them.'' Kolger - Yes, I know. Scientist - ''Second, their technology is really outdated compared to ours, but they have the advantage of numbers. So now instead of sending a tiny fraction of the fleet to each planet, we'll attack them with our full might.'' Kolger - Wouldn't that be a waste of firepower? Scientist - ''No, sir. You are understimating their numbers. Just follow this...''

The holograms simulated a battle between the entire Gros fleet and the Kraw forces. The Kraw were easily destroyed.

Scientist - ...and victory will be at hand.

Kolger grinned and laughed evilly as he came back to his chair. The Gros were at their full potential now.

Triple Massacre
A transmission was sent to Kies from the Kraw colony of Ikan. The colonist Kraw appeared scared and hurt.

Kies - What is it? Kraw - ''It's the Gros, my Emperor! They are here!'' Kies - ''Gros? Don't worry, we'll take Eko's plan again and crush them.'' Kraw - It won't work, sir! Kies - And may I ask why? Kraw - Because...just look at it!

The Kraw showed Kies the images of the planet's sky, which was filled with Gros Battleships. Far more Gros ships than any other invasions. Eko was with Kies and was startled to see the image.

Eko - You never told me there were so many! Kies - That's because we've never faced so many before! Eko - Damn it...

The Gros fleet completely exterminated the Kraw fleet on the planet. No longer overwhelmed and now playing more aggressively, the Gros glassed the surface without any mercy. Soon, Ikan was turned into a fiery lifeless rock, and the Gros jumped into hyperspace, only to appear over the Kraw world of Vaherohk next.

Kies - ''They already moved to a second planet. Eko, hurry up with that scan!'' Eko - I told you it would take time. Kies - ''You told me it would take a few days. Days have passed!'' Eko - I cannot concentrate with you yelling at my ear, Kies!

The Gros moved their attack to Vaherohk, and once again caused a complete genocide. The full might of the Gros' technology made the Kraw look weak and defenseless. After also being done with Vaherohk, the fleet moved to a third planet, Nikel.

Kies - ''Three planets in one day...I understimated these creatures. Eko, hurry up!'' Eko - I'm almost there!

Like the previous two, Nikel was completely razed. Kolger laughed triumphant, his revenge for his defeats being executed. The fleet returned to the Gros' space station to resupply. However...

Eko - Found it! Kies - ''About time. Where is it?'' Eko - ''Over here, north to this small Yotunian territory. Almost no one lives in this region, they could hide their base there with no problems.'' Kies - ''Great. I'll contact Gongnores Slaki. This time I'm getting his help as well...''

The Invasion
While his fleet was resupplying, Kolger conversated with Emperor Gnorvi. The emperor wasn't fond of Kolger's current strategy.

Gnorvi - ''Don't forget I can't send reinforcements until a few weeks. You're wasting too much ammunation on these creatures.'' Kolger - I was tired of their attitudes, my lord...

An alarm was set on the space station, and a Gros trooper approached the commandant.

Trooper - Commandant, we are under attack. Kolger - ''What? Who dares?'' Trooper - It's the Kraw and a second empire identified as...Tyrek Empire. Kolger - ''What? How did they even found us here?''

Kolger looked at the screens on his bridge and saw the Kraw being helped by this stranger called Tyrek Empire. Unlike the Kraw, the Tyrekians had technology which could rival and beat the Gros', who started to lose ships fast.

Gnorvi - I wouldn't have sent you there if I knew there were empires powerful enough to damage us like this. Kolger - Well what am I supposed to do now?

Gnorvi though, and got a devious idea.

Gnorvi - ''Truly this invasion wasn't planned well enough. Retreating is the only option, but they'll not allow you to after the damage you caused. So instead of fighting...retreat.'' Kolger - ''My lord, you cannot be serious. The Gros live to fight and enslave the weak!'' Gnorvi - ''How do you want to enslave if you are dead? Now, call them in the communications vox and propose to end hostilities in enchange of helping them. Pretend you're gonna help them, and when you get a chance, get the hell off this galaxy!'' Kolger - Ugh...understood.

Both Kies and Slaki were contacted by the Gros, and both were surprised by their words.

Slaki - Do my ears deceive me? Kies - ''Say that again. I want to hear it again!'' Kolger - *sigh* We surrender...

Turncoat
Some days after the attack on the space station, a combined Kraw + Gros fleet approached a planet controlled by the Brood, with the intent of destroying it. The Kraw wanted to use the Gros against the Zazane now, but Kolger had little intention in aiding them.

Kraw Commander - Alright, so you Gros take care of the front while we will flank their ships. Kolger - Yes...of course... Kraw Commander - ''Good. Now let's go and kick these Zazane off our galaxy!''

Kolger chuckled as the Kraw and Gros fleet approached the planet. The Brood took notice of the fleet and quickly prepare their defenses. The Kraw commander ordered the attack on the Zazane fleet, but the Gros did not respond.

Kraw Commander - ''Hello? This is the part where you help us!'' Kolger - Oh please...keep dreaming!

A magnetic weapon was fired from Kolger's flagship which caused the Kraw ships to glitch and stop working properly. The Zazane watched, puzzled, the enemy fleet apparently attacking itself. The Kraw were infuriated.

Kraw Commander - After we spared you, you do this to us! Kolger - ''I am no tool to be used by no alien. While your stupid emperor ordered this attack, we were evacuating in secret. Now you'll watch as we leave before your ships are turned into ash.''

Kolger laughed as the Gros fleet entered subspace, leaving the Kraw Galaxy. The Kraw commander, defenseless could only watch as the Zazane fleet approached. No Kraw ship survived.

The Gros officially left the war.

Kies Prepares
03/00/408 KRE. Kies had faith in his fleet and in the Tyrekians, hoping that tommorow's mission will be a success. Kies was anxious for the battle, and was so proud of what he was about to do he put himself to lead the Kraw Forces against the ULE. But first, Kies had one last thing to do, before advancing towards ULE territory.

He entered his Mega-Ship, a vastly built state of the art massive Kraw ship. It was large to Kraw standards, and Kies thought it would be useful in defeating the ULE. He entered the control room of the ship. Inside, he reached for the transmission controls. There, he typed in the ULE's Kraw Federation Code, 00-099, and awaited to send out a message to them. Kies said with a serious voice:

"I'm giving your people one last chance, Aoblix - Retreat from the Kraw Galaxy or face our wrath. Your people have no place in our Galaxy, you are a security threat!"

The ULE replied swiftly, with an irritated tone:

"We are not going anywhere. Our claims in the Kraw where created under a lawful contract so if you perform any military action against us you are acting unlawfully therefore making the contract null and void leaving it perfectly lawful for us to invade this pitiful galaxy once again."

To Kies, the words of the ULE resumed to one thing: The ULE had rejected Kies's last offer. Kies didn't bother to listen to the fact that the ULE would normally not be a threat, Kies was blind to his goal of Galactic security. He powered up his Mega-Ship, and alongside his fleets, they used Hyperspace to reach the Tyrekian Kraw Galaxy Colonies, where they would pick up the Tyrekian fleets.

Things are going to get ugly.

Another invasion at hand
While Kies was heading towards the ULE, the Kraw government picked Inhraahk Dahei by an unanimous vote to take charge of government affairs until Kies returned. Inhraahk is a military official in the Kraw Empire, and used to be 2nd to Kies - Until Kies became Emperor. This gave him the opportunity to become supreme commander, which used to be Kies's old job, though Kies enforces it from time to time.

Inhraahk was chosen by the government because he seemed to be the best man for the job, and understood Kies's policies perfectly. Inhraahk was honored with this task, though he had work to do. He moved out of the palace tower and traveled 50 Km into the Kraw Galaxy defense center, near Yorg, Horehronie. There, he walked towards the tactics center, getting glares from other officials along the way.

They were worried about Kies's policies, which if they even slipped by a bit, could mean the end of the Galaxy and its people. Inhraahk discarded the glares as he walked forwards and through corridors until he opened the doors to the Tactics center, being welcomed by 2 other Commanders. They were greeting Inhraahk with the usual clashing of hands, a common military greeting. All of a sudden, things started getting more serious, and the conversation began.

Inhraahk - "So, we are here today to discuss the next phase of our plans, as we know, Kies is heading for the Brood, and he will be victorious. I will lead the Kraw forces in an invasion of the Brood colonies."

A Tyrekian commander approached him. Her name was Taskea Vaski, and received multiple distinctions in the Tyrek Empire for her deeds, which go as far as saving a whole colony from a rebellious squad. She was determined to win the war against the brood for her empire, however, she pratically has no allegiance to the Kraw - She just wants land for the Tyrekians.

Taskea - "Indeed. Knowing Zazanes, they're more accustomed to Infantry fights, which means we must avoid the ground." Inhraahk - "That I can understand, sir-" Taskea - "Do you mind? I'm a woman!" Inhraahk - "I'm sorry, gender diffrences are hard for me when it comes to Tyrekians... Anyways, what we need is a strong space fleet. We'll need size and quality above numbers." Taskea - "I have access to many powerful ships. Dalkers, Vsisos, all over 1 Km long and with black hole missiles and disintegrators, and also some of our newer technology, such as hyperspace missiles." Inhraahk - "Good." Another Kraw stood up, his name was Tal. He is a tactician, known for making tactics against the Iteok in many occasions. Tal - "Note that their ships are powerful too, just as strong as the stupid reptiles as well! We'll need a better EM Missile, one that can penetrate their shields... Maybe this one."

He then showed blueprints for a smaller, but more effective EM Missile, designed to fry more powerful technologies, and has been tested in some Tyrekian ships, and succeeded.

Tal - "Like it?" Taskea - "Yes." Inhraahk - "We'll need this. So, we will begin the invasion in 7 days. Here's to a perfect invasion!"

And thus, the Commanders signed off, preparing for the upcoming invasion of the Brood of War.

Dancing with Shadows
Kies was on board his ship, next to ULE territory waiting to invade. He entered his bedroom, a metallic but sophisticated box. He set the temperature to a Kraw ambient temperature, cold enough for a human to clothe itself heavily. He muttered to himself about the tiring day he experienced, and sat down to his desk, grabbed a pad and a stylus. He then inscribed:

"We, as Kraw, will not be tolerated to be punching bags anymore. We have had enhough, we are oppressed people, we will simply not wait for our destruction. 8 Years of torture, similar to the likes of Tek-Negamal 2, awaited the Kraw species for a long time. It ends today. We Kraw shall rise again as a major power, as we did in 97 KRE, when Emperor Kimera began unifying the Galaxy. We were great then, we will be great once more."

During that time, Kies grew increasingly aware of a tall, skeletal shadowy figure in the background, with the very shadows it was composed of emanating like steam. It was reading a newstablet, sat comfortably in a chair and casually flicking through it. The shadowed figure then said; "My, the Kraw Galaxy is not doing well at all.".

Kies was heavily frightened. He turned like a blur and slowly suttered - "Who...who are you?"

The figure put forward a question.

"Let that be your decision - a friend or a foe?"

"Preferably a Friend, I have too many enemies."

"Then I am a friend."

The figure continued, its fingers wrapped around the tablet.

"The Kraw Galaxy is falling apart, Kies. Billions of lives are being risked and your decisions are getting on the bad side of nearly every living thing outside of Kraw - which is to say everything else."

Kies just wanted peace.

"Your methods...kicking out races in the Kraw Galaxy is angering everyone because it's not in your power to. Creating a war you cannot handle."

The figure stood, and towered over Kies, almost doubling or maybe even tripling his height. Kies closed the distance between themselves and said:

"I have Antediluvian on my side. The reason why I'm kicking those empires out is because THEY ARE A THREAT!" It breathed, its eyes glowed brighter, an ominous white. Then, it walked over to read what Kies wrote just a minute ago. It then turned halfway to Kies;

"Antediluvian? Antediluvian is known to me, but is he an ally of yours?"

Kies replied affirmatively. The figure asked the same question, Kies replied again, albeit hesitating.

The figure then sat down in the chair Kies was sitting in, and read the notes more.

"They are indeed a threat, but they're beyond your control. Have you ever heard of 'delusions of grandeur', Emperor?"

"No."

"Belief in having more control than you really do."

Kies was uncertain whether he was being insulted or it was an answer.

"I have control over my Galaxy." The figured swivelled on the chair towards Kies.

"That's the thing. Half of the empires in the galaxy are more powerful than the combination of the Kraw, Iteok, Asgord and Tahar."

Kies rested his claws on the desk.

"Tyrekians."

"...They could destroy you in a heartbeat and many others would like to as well."

The figure continued in a quieter tone:

"I heard the Xhodocto were roaming the Kraw Galaxy as well...just wanting to end existence here..."

Kies heard the name Xhodocto before.

"What? The ones who destroyed Ka'tenes?"

"And the ones who were responisble for deaths uncountable...twenty and four years ago."

Kies then had full understanding of the conversation and shouted at the top his voice that Andromed had doomed the Kraw Galaxy. The figure still continued in the dark voice:

"Not necessarily. If I said, the Xhodocto were willing to fend off the enemies of your person, and in exchange for something small, what would you say?"

At this point, Kies was grasping the desk tightly and his eyes were partially closed. He was panting, and palpitating -

"I'd... agree, as long as the Galaxy isn't harmed." "The Xhodocto's offer is the life of one Kraw for the protection for the Kraw Galaxy." Kies heartily accepted the deal. The figure was confused to see that Kies was not bashing down the door begging to get out of the room under fear of death. The figure then stood again and faced a blank wall, half turning to Kies again -

"Before I leave, I will leave you with this. What if the Xhodocto do destroy your enemies...and take someone close to you?"

The figure then phased into the wall, and disappeared. His presence left the room. Kies started to breathe heavily again, and paced around the room, talking to himself at an erratic pace.

Battle for Moszurn
After Kies made his deal with the Shadowy being that visited him the previous day, Kies was ready to make his attack on the ULE. Kies decided to meet up with commander Tyko Heizeltö, and then they decided to share their strategies, in the safety of Kies's Mega-Ship.

But Tyko had a surprise for Kies. His most loyal Hackers have decyphered the ULE spaceship plans, allowing them to take a closer look at weaknesses, however, there was not enhough info to make any clear conclusions. There was also a secret file called "Iron Maiden", however it could not be decyphered for strange reasons.

To Tyko, this did not matter. Time was everything to him, and an ambush would be the best strategy to him, so Tyko decided to leave Kies's Megaship and take his fighter ship into his flag ship. Tyko then decided to initiate his flagship's offense systems, until he saw a carefully placed joke in it.

Tyko - "Huh? Who put this annoying joke about a heavy white "tyrekanoid" in a primitive setting with primitive guns making poorly constructed jokes and settings nobody would laugh at???"

Silence echoed the command center of Tyko's ship, until Tyko discovered who it was through a creator's ID. It was the pilot of his ship, named Kazeltö. Kazeltö was extremely nervous when his name was shouted, and was grabbed by Tyko. Tyko then took him past many corridors until Kazeltö found himself in a weak fighter ship.

Tyko - "You're in a defective ship now for mocking me. If you survive you get your job back. If you retreat before I say so I will shoot you myself."

Tyko let Kazeltö into the battle fray alongside the other 1200 ships that would be invading the ULE. Tyko and Kies commanded their fleets to approach Moszurn with haste. Meanwhile, in the ULE, the Tralors have already identified the attackers, and saw them approaching.

Tralor Officer - "Sir, we are picking up unadenified radar spikes approching the colony. Large number of them too." Tralor Commander - "Curious. Have all ships on ready."

Tyko and Kies's fleets kept approaching.

Tralor Officer - "They are getting closer. Should I attempet to message them?" Tralor Commander - "Yes. Do it now."

The commander then began contacting Kies and Tyko, showing an angry tone of voice. Tyko was calm and emotionless while Kies was angry, possibly at all they could do to the Kraw Galaxy in the near future.

Tralor Officer - "Attention unidentified fleet. You are approaching United Lanat space. Identify yourself or be fired upon."

Kies tried to say something back, but Tyko took the lead.

Tyko - "You failed to respect Kraw Galaxy Laws. You must be punished." Tralor Officer - "We are here under lawful treaty of the Asgord Genocide peace pact. You are the one acting outside the law. It is now clear that the people of this galaxy cannot be trusted with their words. We will enjoy destroying your dishonorable hides!" Tralor Commander - "All forces perpare for battle!" Tyko - "And I'll enjoy destroying your dishonorable hides."

Tyko and Kies's fleets entered battle formation. The Tralor Commander also got into position.

Tralor Commander - "Order all vessels to fire as soon as they see the enemy ships. Also call the ground forces and tell them to charge the ground to space cannons and keep them on full charge until my mark." Tralor Officer - "Aye."

Tyko began ordering his fleets.

Tyko - "Order, Critical scale, EM Disruptor Missiles, fire now."

The missiles were fired at the ULE ships. Several of the missles hit the ULE ships, while some others missed.

Tralor Officer - "We have several ships disabled, sir!" Tralor Commander - "I'm not blind I see that! Order all ships to fire at full power." Tralor Officer - "Aye"

The ULE ships then fired all main cannons at the Tyrek-Kraw ships, and some of them, mostly Kraw ships, took so much damage that they exploded. Kies decided to change strategies.

Kies - "Change formation! Take out the ships many vs 1, one at a time!" Tralor Commander - "All forces get as close as you can to the enemy ships for maximum damage. Also try to work the ships closer to the range of the ground to space cannons." Tralor Captain - "Yes sir!"

Tyko notices the plan and made another order.

Tyko - "Order, High scale, Homing missiles. Now."

The ships fired many of these missiles at a time, all directed at the ULE ships. Several were hit, a few being destroyed or critically damaged.

Tralor Captain - "We suffered a directed hit. Weapon systems down. Shield systems down. Life support gone. Only one option left...prepare a ramming maneuver."

The damaged ULE ship flies itself into the starboard side of a Tyrek ship. The Tyrekian, noticing the ramming and the fact the ship suffered large damage, he quickly turned his ship around, facing the ULE ship then shooting it.

Tralor Officer - "Enemy ships are within range of the GtS cannons." Tralor Commander - "Good. Order them to open fire now!" Tralor Officer - "Aye. Attention all ground to space batteries you are clear to engage. Repeat you are clear to engage."

The cannons fired at the fleets, causing a number of destroyed ships.

Tyko - "What the frak was that???" Kies - "They crushed 3 at a time!!!"

The Kraw ships now focused on the cannons, while the rest focused on the homing missile technique. The ULE catched on to the repeated tactic and use anti-missile defense cannons to disable the homing missiles before they could make impact.

Tralor Commander - "Very good. Continue to keep steady fire on the enemy ships."

Tyko was fed up. He moved on to the famous MGM Missiles, also known as black hole missiles. Tyko fired them at the ships with the anti-missile defense cannons, one being hit but the other ones managing to disable the missiles.

Tralor Commander - '"Its time we end this annoyance. All ships abandon defence positions and assume attack positions. Drive them out of our colony." Tyko - "Order, Critical scale: Everyone fire your electromagnetic missiles!"

Several ships were hit but the majority were still active. The ULE ships then focused all firepower on the lead ships. This led Kies to lead his fleet to diverge from the main fleet until they were suddenly behind the ULE fleet, flanking them from behind.

Tralor Commander - "Clever. Call in the 17th fleet from hyperspace and have them join in the battle." Tralor Officer - "It will be done. 17th fleet you are clear to engage."

A portion of the 17th fleet arrived at the battlefield, making Tyko more and more nervous. He seemed as if he was failing, which brought shock to the people in his flagship's command center.

Tyko - "More?" Officer Kelzanyet - "Tyko... we have faced greater threats... why not this?" Tyko - "It's not like before, it's like they grew far stronger or something... I'm... Grrrrr... Fire more homing missiles at the reinforcements!!!"

The fleet fired more homing missiles, which flew away for a minute before hitting the 17th fleet. Several ships were hit and destroyed, but the Tralor took that as a minor loss and kept up the assault, by firing the GtS cannons once more. When the missiles hit Tyko's flagship, he realized how bad he was losing.

Kelzanyet - "Wh- what? How did that happen? That wasn't supposed to happen, I worked with you for 13 years on this same ship!"

Tyko felt the sadness flowing through him, he knew of his loss. He commanded all of his and Kies's ships to retreat. Tyko saw no more point in continuing.

Tyko - "I lost... I... Am I getting old?" Kelzanyet - "You're 42... Maybe... maybe you are... but we're not sur-" Tyko - "I lost! How isn't that a sign of oldness, I used to serve under commander Gaadelt and he retired 2 years after losing for the first time." Kelzanyet - "He was 70 then." Tyko - "... Bring us back to our territory."

The mission was deemed a failure. Tyko and Kies returned back to Tyrekian territory, alongside Tyko's pilot, who survived to retain his job at Tyko's ship. while the Tralor were celebrating.

Tralor Officer - "They are retreating! The battle is won!" Tralor Commander - "This is only a minor victory. Full victory is still far away."

All they knew is that it wouldn't end anytime soon...

Inhraahk's quest
On the other side of the war's spectrum, Inhraahk and Taskea were leading their fleets into Brood territory, hoping to succeed where Kies and Tyko had failed. They crossed past FRA territory, with nobody noticing it was an attack on the Brood. They were heading to Dargul, which was preparing itself for battle. Kies and Taskea sorted their strategies before heading near the planet.

On the surface of Dargul, the Dragon Battleguard's soldiers were visited by Admiral Hordan Krull, who had a large battlefleet above the planet. Hordan Krull was known for his war experience and his aptitude in the battlefield. He spoke with the battleguard with an angry tone, clearly showing his distaste for the Kraw species.

Hordan Krull - "Battleguard, we have just recieved reports of an incoming strike force, probably from the bastard Kraw. And we hear they have help from Tyrekian scum." Commodore Pteris - "They will be approaching soon, so we need your support on the ground. Activate anti-ship turrets and missiles, see if we can get them from the surface."

As Inhraahk and Taskea's fleets approached Dargul, the Zazane ships were prepared for the attack, and so launched several EM missiles in their direction. Inhraahk decided to order his fleet to dodge them, but they exploded in mid-space near the fleet, disabling several ships.

Hordan Krull - "The battle has begun! Battleguard, see what you can do from the ground!"

Hordan, using what apparently is essence energy, presumably of dark nature, teleported to his large Kaann (English: Planet Destroyer) ship, called 'The Enemy Of Peace''. The name of the ship insulted Inhraahk. Taskea called her first order.

Taskea - "Order, High scale, fire your EM Missiles at wherever the missiles came from!"

Using a sonar, the ships were able of detecting that the missiles came from the nearby fleet near Dargul, and fired a counter attack of Shidium blasts, which destroyed the missiles before they could do any damage at all.

Inhraahk - "Oh come on... keep firing!"

Inhraahk and Taskea's ships kept firing their EM Missiles, but Taskea decided to bring in her surprise missile. She fired it, the battleguard on the planet used laser fire to destroy the missile. Unknown to them, it was an MGM missile, causing a black hole. However, there was a flaw, the Brood's defense systems are so successful that the missile exploded closer to the Tyrek-Kraw fleets than any other brood fleet. And Taskea was caught in the range of the black hole.

Taskea was very nervous, as falling into the hole could mean her death. She propelled her ship backwards, attempting to flee from the hole, but more missile fire from Dargul set her ship to an irreversible course towards the black hole. This prompted her and her most loyal crew to take the escape pods, which looked like small and sleek ships. Taskea and her crew fled in FTL, towards an FRA planet, leaving Inhraahk as the only commander leading the fleets.

By then, the black hole had dissipated, prompting some Tyrekians to try and destroy the cities in the planet. They moved away from the main fleet, only to use FTL to re-appear near a Dargulian city, where the Battleguard was expecting them. The battleguard fired upwards at the ships, with Dargul's turrets also firing, destroying some of the fleet.

Tyrekian - "Initiate code Ged."

Code Ged was initiated. Ged was the Tyrekian saying for the letter G, and was known as the Godzilla protocol by some Human enthusiasts. The Tyrekians began firing disintegrator beams at the buildings, turrets and the battleguard, attempting to destroy them, while Inhraahk learned from the Tyrekian example and attempted to move the fleets through other cities through FTL as well.

However, the Battleguard activated a War Colussus, which was there in case of a future Kraw Galaxy invasion. The Colossus erupted from the ground and started to fire at the Tyrekian ships. The Tyrekians responded with EM missiles, and the Colossus responded with deflector missiles.

Meanwhile, Inhraahk arrived at the other side of Dargul, and dropped a terraformer on Dargul. However, it was set to remove Shidium from the planet, which was pratically pointless as the lack of Shidium doesn't harm Zazane. Inhraahk didn't realize this fact and hoped the terraformer would work.

Hordan Krull's fleet fired at Inhraahk's fleet while the war collossus crushed half of the Tyrekian fleet battling it, causing them to retreat. Inhraahk's fleet responded with disintegrator beams as the Terraformer activated, commencing the process of turning Dargul into a Shidium-free planet.

Hordan Krull laughed as his ships fired a Shidium beam at the Terraformer, striking through Inhraahk's ship and damaging the Terraformer. Inhraahk deemed this as the time to commence a retreating process, however, he fired an MGM missile at Hordan Krull's ship.

Krull notices it before teleporting aboard Inhraahk's ship, and preparing to deal the final blow to Inhraahk, however, Inhraahk doesn't notice him, and celebrated as Krull's ship was eaten by a black hole, as well as the urbanized areas around it. He then decided to drop a 2nd terraformer, however, it was a turret defended model, which Inhraahk saved for this situation.

Inhraahk - "Kies... I have done it." Hordan Krull - "For Brood, Shyrak eater!"

Inhraahk could barely do anything before Krull stabbed Inhraahk through his stomach with his Shidium energy sword. Inhraahk did a roar-scream of pain before collapsing, Krull kicking him down.

The other Kraw were attempting to retrieve him from Krull's range, but Krull laughed and throwed several pure Shidium grenades across the ship.

Hordan Krull - "You don't know what'll happen when those go off?"

A Kraw was lightning quick to send a message to the Kraw Empire cloning facilities to clone Inhraahk before Krull teleported off the ship and landed near the Terraformer, and watched as Inhraahk's ship explodes in three blasts of light. The Terraformer turrets then detected him, and then started to fire at him, however, he was quick to dodge the rays and throwed several pure Shidium grenades, which damaged the turrets, which then exploded. Krull then noticed the terraformer.

Hordan - "Shyrak! Idiot Kraw... They don't know how much of a reliable resource this is!"

Krull then destroyed the Terraformer with another grenade, it exploding in a flash of light. It was the end of a battle that was condemned from the start.

Inhraahk then awoke in a diffrent setting. He was wet and barely conscious, he could see red and shades of red, but soon he noticed he was being cloned. His thoughts then were of anger, but despair as well. Even in the cloning tube, he devised a diffrent plan, one that would involve stealth rather than force...

Before the Storm
A few days after the battle of Moszurn Emperor Aoblix summoned Viceroy Gurur, leader of the ULE Kraw territories to Lanat Prime for an in person conference. Viceroy Gurur already knew what the meeting was going to be about. It was obvious that it was going to be about the failed Tyrek-Kraw invasion of Moszurn. Once arrived at Lanat Prime Gurur's shuttle docked at the Royal palace starport. Viceroy Gurur made his way to the Emperor's throne room and once there he entered and bowed before the presence of the Emperor.

Gurur - "I am here as you requested, my lordship." Aoblix - "Good. Now arise Viceroy Gurur and come closer to me. We have much to discuss."

Gurur rose up and slowly approved Aoblix who was seated on his throne.

Aoblix - "Reports say that a combined Tyrek-Kraw fleet attempted to invade one of our Kraw colonies." Gurur - "Indeed my lord. Our forces fought them off with relative ease." Aoblix - "So the reports tell me. They are fools for attempting to remove us from our rightful claims. Dishonorable fools who deserve nothing but the edge of the blade for their dishonor."

Aoblix got up from his throne and walked over to a computer monitor and pressed a few buttons on a keypad. Almost immediately an image of the Kraw galaxy comes up.

Aoblix - "We could easily launch a full scale invasion of this galaxy but, perhaps, that is not the most tactically efficient way to go about it. No, not at all. " Gurur - ''"You have a plan, Emperor?" Aobilx - "Yes...yes. I tell you what we will do. We will act strictly defensive for the first part of this war. Perhaps launch a few minor offenses. We will allow the Kraw forces a few minor victories and then while they think that they are getting the best of us we strike hard in fast leaving them confused and helpless. I believe that the current forces already stationed at the Kraw galaxy is sufficient for this plan to work out." Gurur - "Great strategy my lord but you are forgetting something. The Kraw have became protectorates of the GEC recently."

Aoblix frowned at this and walked back to his throne.

Aoblix - "I am aware. We currently have good relations with the GEC and we don't want to chance that. Though I admit that I don't trust the GEC for a second it would be wise to have them on our side but if worst comes to worst we will fight them." Gurur - "Indeed. Anything else my lord?" Aoblix - "No that is it. You are free to return to the Kraw galaxy." Gurur - "Yes my lord. At once my lord."

Gurur bowed to Aoblix before leaving the throne room. Aoblix sat and thought to himself. He was worried about the war in the Kraw galaxy not because of Kies' attempt to remove United Lanat presences from the galaxy but the chance that this war could make him enemies with the GEC. An empire that he was not sure that even the ULE could overcome.

False Victory
A small ULE task force of seven ships waited just outside the borders of the Kraw Empire. Four of the seven warships, however where 'decoy ships' guided by advanced AI. The decoy ships looked like proper ULE warships and even gave off false life signs to help fool the enemy. This was all apart of Aoblix's plan to allow the Kraw and there allies to achieve 'false victories' against the empire so when the ULE was ready to launch a full scale invasion they would not know of the ULE's full power. Some felt that this plan was somewhat dishonorable but Aoblix argued that it was the same concept as other ambush tactics that was commonly used in naval battles. After several hours of waiting at the Kraw borders the task force decided to move into the borders to attract Kraw patrols. Of course it was not long before a patrol picked them up and intercepted them.

The ULE taskforce fought with the Kraw patrol that was sent to intercept them. The decoy ships did there jobs perfectly and one of them was even able to destroy a Kraw vessel before being destroyed itself. One all the decoy ships where destroyed the three remaining ships retreated to a safe location. The Kraw where pleased with being able to drive out the ULE taskforce or so they thought anyways. The ULE would humor them for the time being.

Kies's Anger
It was Norknaar 408 KRE. Kies was prepared to receive Eko Angarg, who refuged to Kraw Territory after the virus started affecting Telkom. Kies was highly unaware of the Varshk issue, as it was not on the level of government where he's usually on, however, someone ringed Kies's quarters bell. It was Inhraahk, acting somewhat serious.

Inhraahk - "Did you happen to send files insulting the GEC? I'm assuming forged." Kies - "What files?"

Inhraahk then showed the forged files that apparently Kies wrote. Upon very careful inspection, one could tell they were forged, as the signature was the exact same used on the signing of the Protectorate treaty, and Kies's signature always slightly varies.

Kies was furious, demanding an investigation on all top to low levels of the Kraw government and intelligence complex. The investigation would take place immediatly, and began with figuring out from where did the file come from, but not before copying its "Gfaad data" and deleting the file itself. The Gfaad data would contain a date of creation, location, and other properties data. These could be useful in tracking down the culprit...

Don't press your luck
Kies - "The last 5 invasions were a success, fleet after fleet, they fell, and the Gros are at our mercy! Now, let's assault the ULE with our best material, they won't know what they hit them!"

Those were the words of Kies as his and Tyko's fleet approached the capital world of the ULE Kraw Galaxy Territories. Kies felt confident over his past victories, and Tyko has regained his confidence back after the loss at Moszurn. However, the victories they had won until now were faked by the ULE so that the Kraw and Tyrekians would become foolish enhough to send their best ships into the battle.

Their plan worked.

The Kraw came with 5 Mega-ships of the best kind, while the Tyrekians brought 17 of their best Zörmon ships. The ULE were prepared to give the Kraw and the Tyrekians a good nightmare.

Tralor Captain - "Viceroy Gurur we are picking up a large Kraw force incoming towards the capital of the sector." Gurur - "Excellent! This is the moment we've been waiting for! They think they have already won but they have another thing coming." Tralor Captain - "Yes sir."

Tyko was anxious to begin destroying the capital. He prepared to fire a large black hole generator on the main city. Tyko was relieved of something else. He stopped thinking he wasn't getting old and accepted his defeat at Moszurn as a setback. Tyko prepared to fire.

Tyko - "Order: Critical Scale: At the count of 10, fire a black hole generator on the 1st city, crew. 1... 2... 3..."

Tyko started counting down to lock on to the main city, however, before he could do so...

Gurur - "Now it is time. Order all ground to space cannons to open fire on the largest of the enemy ships. Captain Sacit form a line in front of the enemy force with your heaviest warships at front and the weaker ones supporting the rear." Captain Sacit - "Alright sir."

As Tyko was nearing the end of his countdown, his ship suffered a small earthquake. It was hit. His ship was the largest one in the fight. Tyko was a bit concerned and shouted:

Tyko - "We're facing attacks! Order: Critical Scale: Turn on shields and fire antimatter at those Tralor!"

His and the Kraw's troops began firing the antimatter missiles, which lead to several of the front ships being destroyed or damaged. Gurur was getting angry, but it was all going according to plan.

Gurur - "Keep the cannons fired focused on the ships. I don't care about the overheating risk just do it!" Tyko - "Order, High scale: Second Wave!"

Tyko's second wave would prove successful, destroying several more ULE ships, however, the ULE had more tactics for the battle.

Gurur - "Good! Now, Captain Aito have your taskforce attack the enemy's flank. Keep constant focused fire on them." Aito - "My pleasure, sir."

30 ULE Waships attacked the Kraw's right flank, managing to take down 2 of Kies's Megaships, forcing Kies to take action. Kies and the rest of his fleet then fired their plasma missiles at the ULE ships, while the Tyreks continued with Wave 3 of their anti-matter assault.

Gurur - "We are getting the best of them. Keep up the assult and take as many of them out as you can. No mercy for the dishonorable!"

Kies saw that after the destruction of his side of the fleet, he was going to be next. He then initiated FTL controls and vanished from the face of the battle, leaving Tyko on his own. Tyko - "... We are better than the Kraw, soldiers! Order: High Scale, keep going with the Anti-Matter!"

A fourth wave of anti-matter was fired at the warships, however, Gurur had a special plan. He ordered all his forces to fire at maximum power. Tyko's fleet tries to reply, but they fell, one by one, and Tyko's ship would end up being ripped by 2 with a disintegrator laser.

Tyko immediatly saw the seriousness of the event. It was his most prized ship, costing him 18 Billion Tykons. He also had it decorated with many valuable assorted items, such as statues. All was lost in one war. Tyko rushed to the pod zone and ejected himself back to Vyskönen.

Captain Sacit - "That coward didn't die with his ship!" Gurur - "Did you expect better? Alright warriors we are done playing games with the Kraw. After I send my report the Emperor expect immediate mobilization into Kraw space."

Tyko, while in his pod, felt as if his career was over with the destruction of that ship. Hefdelt he had to hand over his commander position to someone else. Was his career over? No. After he returned to Vyskönen, his assistant Zhak took Tyko to a re-training center, complete with a 1 month vacation to Inneher, a famous lush paradise in Tyrekian Culture. Tyko needed this. He handed over further command of the Kraw Galaxy mission to Commander Untaen, who aspires to be Tyko's successor. If anything, Tyko deserved his rest for fighting for so long.

As for the Kraw, they started to question Kies's commanding skills, saying that he should leave it all to Inhraahk, however, they were in far greater danger...

Return of the outcasts
On the top of the capital spire on the Planet Crepusculum, Supreme Autarch Andorrus was observing the huge holographic screen. It showed the political map of the First Gigaquadrant, galaxies floating in the air, coloured fog indicating their allegiance to various political powers. There was something soothing in this dance of stars for Andorrus. But not now. He has noticed a cloud of grey fog spreading and surrounding a galaxy, coming from another.

Andorrus - ''The Empire... It expands its influence yet again. Arrrgh.''

Suddenly, Iovera materialised in a flash of purple light before Andorrus, coming to him with a slight smile.

Iovera - ''I sense your thoughts, Autarch. And I understand you. Imperial expansion is quite dangerous to us and you was the citizen of Rambo Nation once - and we need to help our allies, the Brood of War, here. However, attacking Kraw Galaxy would be too dangerous.'' Andorrus - You are right, my lady. Iovera - However, I have a plan...

A wormhole portal opened as the group of Tyrekian and Imperion warriors appeared to Iovera and Andorrus. Warriors immediately bowed in obedience.

Iovera - Navarch Kanesh, Syntagmarch Nalramath, we have a mission for you. Ashamaga Kanesh - What do you wish, great ones? Andorrus - ''You would like that mission, lady Kanesh. You should lead a secret mission to destroy the command of Kraw Galaxy forces attacking the Brood of War - among them, the Tyrek Empire.'' Ashamaga Kanesh - ''Tyrek Empire? They are in this universe now? If so, I will do this mission gladly, my masters! At last, my family's ancient vengeance would be done.'' Iovera - ''Excellent, Navarch. Nalramath would help you in this mission. Lead your forces through the portal into the Kraw Galaxy. They won't be prepared...''

After a few hours of quantum foam manipulation, a portal was opened on Vyskönen. Swiftly and without notice, Kanesh and Nalramath's forces have reached the military high command of the Tyrekian colonising force. Entering the command building, Nalramath has hacked the computer systems of the building's security, shutting it down allowing the Divinarian forces to enter it.

Ashamaga Kanesh - Nalramath, set bombs here and there and destroy the whole building - after I'm done with some business here...

Ashamaga Kanesh now ran with her forces to the pinnacle of the high command, where she was going to do her mission...

Taskea - ''What the heck is that? All cameras, computers and turrets shut down, what can it be?'' Engineer - A strange malfunction, we will fix it now-

Suddenly, Ashmaga teleported in Taskea's cabinet, facing her eye to eye, gun pointed at her. In horror, the engineer ran away from the cabinet, screaming for help.

Taskea - What is that supposed to be, a rebellion?

In anger, Taskea immediately fired her twin lasguns on her attacker, who managed to evade the bolts and fire back with her electrolaser, stunning Taskea and rendered her unconscious...

---

Taskea awakened within her house, recovering her senses now. Remembering little from her meeting with Ashmaga Kanesh now, she found her body scarred and her clothing ripped. On the floor, she has noticed a small letter, written in ancient Tyrekian language...

''Kanesh family is back. The Outcasts have returned for vengeance.''

The Cult
The Imperial Hangar. It is the landing point of whatever interests the Emperor of the Kraw. Personal business with the Emperor? Land here and you'll see him. The Hangar is located just 20m from the massive Imperial Tower, and has a clear connection with the tower itself. A large ship landed on the hangar. It was red and black in color, with an interesting decal of a 10 pointed star. No Kraw soldier had any idea who they were, though one soldier saw a Mahanayan leave the ship, prompting him to ask:

Kraw Soldier - "Welcome, identity and purpose, please." Mahanayan Commander - "Commander -000584. Audience with the Emperor."

The soldier wondered what would a Mahanayan have to do with the Emperor - After all, Mahanayans have a connection with the Asgord Genocide which occured 7 years earlier.

Kraw Soldier - "The Emperor? What business do you have with him?"

The Mahanayan then showed his 10 Star Seal in the palm of his hand - The same one on the ship. He researched it a bit until he found out it was a symbol of allegiance with the Ayrai'Shikua, who Kies had made a deal with last year. Only the Kraw Military had knowledge of the Kraw-Ayrai'Shikua deal, and the only thing the Military asked was who would be the soul the Xhodocto would claim.

Kraw Soldier - "The cult sign... Xhodocto... the deal... right this w- oh damn our doors are too small... Let me get Kies."

The soldier, angry that Kraw doors were too small for Mahanayans to get through without breaking it, called Kies to the hangar. Kies, upon receiving the message, left his Imperial quarters, where Varutahira was, and rushed to the hangar, where he met the Mahanayan Cult Commander.

Kies - "I am here." Mahanayan Commander - "Took you long enough!" Kies - "My apologies, but I had no idea the Xhodocto had allies after the Komorian Civil War." Mahanayan Commander - "The Cult is eternally loyal to them. Now tell me the plan you have." Kies - "Very well. Now, I assume you want a mission. I have an important one. You will avenge my supreme commander, Inhraahk, I will hand over details."

Kies showed Dargul, the Brood world Inhraahk attacked earlier, and its position, which is close to FRA borders.

Mahanayan Commander - "Close to the FRA territory? Hmmmm....I trust that you want the FRA alive, right?" Kies - "Of course, they're a species of the Kraw Galaxy." Mahanayan Commander - "Will there be FRA life on this planet?" Kies - "Probably not, Zazanes are racist to others."

Kies then looked at some black spiked beings with 6 legs and glowing red eyes, he wondered who they were.

Kies - "Who are those?" Mahanayan Commander - "Nvarxn. New races." Kies - "Tell me more."

The Mahanayan was angry because he felt Kies was asking too many questions. He clenched his fists, Auatoroms preparing their rifles. Kraw soldiers started blocking Kies, defending him.

Mahanayan Commander - "A little nosy, aren't we? I may be giving you service but I don't take questions from Kraw." Kies - "Enhough, soldiers. Now, can you do my mission?"

As soon as the soldiers dispersed, the Auatorom guns stood down. The Mahanayan commander then entered his dropship with the other cult races and flew towards Dargul.

But unconventionally, the cult ship vanished without a trace, Varutahira seeing it clearly before it vanished through a panorama window, noticing the cult symbol. She would be later greeted by Kies again, who told her it was help for the Kraw Galaxy, though he didn't mention Xhodocto.

The cult ship would soon appear from thin air in Dargul, amongst several others. Shouts of anger could be heard from the planet below, and anti-air turrets started to fire at the Cult ships. One small Cult ship falled and crashed, however, one larger ship appeared and started to charge a hyperlaser, which could be devastating.

Zazane Commander - "Dammit! Grr... Don't let it fire!"

Several Brood ships rose into the air, preparing to combat the Cult, however, cult ships flew over the Brood's patterns and shot at them, causing serious damage for the Brood. The hyperlaser would soon fire on the other side of the planet, causing the city near it to be wasted in flames. The shock waves could be felt through the planet, prompting Zazane to get into evacuation ships.

One cult ship flew towards the Zazane's main ship, attempting to board it.

Mahanayan Commander - "Prepare to be boarded." Zazane Commander - "You will be met with hostility!" Mahanayan Commander - "And you shall be met with a massacre..." Zazane Commander - "Bring it on, we fear no death!"

The ship boarded the Zazane's main ship, the doors of the cult ship opened and the Nvarxn Kies saw earlier pour out with guns, showing their red glowing eyes. The Zazane then shoot from their cover, their Shidium guns blazing, killing most of the Nvarxn. Some shoot back at the Zazane, causing some casualties.

Zazane Commander - "They are going down! Keep firing men! Give them everything you got, and more!"

After several shots, all the Nvarxn are killed, leaving the Zazane to celebrate.

Zazane Commander - "Yes! We got them!"

However, the gas from the Cult ships hid something else. The shadows made it look like a Xhodocto, which frightened the Zazane.

Zazane Commander - "What the... Holy Shyrak! Fire at it! Fire at it now!"

The Zazane squads begin to fire at the shadow, only for it to unveil itself. It emerged from the shadows. It was a Mauler. Maulers were active in the Congregation since the War of Ages, which took place in Kies's youth in the 370s KRE.

Zazane Soldier - "What the heck is that?!" Zazane Commander - "Keep firing! If it bleeds, we can kill it!"

The Mauler then started to swat Zazanes through the wall as if they were bugs, prompting other Zazane to run back while firing at it. The Mauler jolted back from the fire, although the ammo bounces off its armor, showing the sheer strength of it. The Mauler roared and then sprinted after the Zazane while trampling the controls.

Zazane Soldier - "Ahh! To Shyrak with this!"

The soldier gets out his Shidium blade and runs towards the Mauler, with the intent of ending this. The Mauler swiped the Zazane into three pieces with its energy claws. The other Zazane keep firing, several of them charge towards the Mauler, only for him to hammer the floor, causing tremors which made the Zazane start to trip and fall, though they continued nonetheless.

The Mauler then picked up a control terminal and threw it at the Zazanes, hitting several of them, but some of them got back up. The Mauler roared and then sprinted through the Zazane, toppling the ones in his way. One leaped out of the way, firing at the Mauler's feet. The Mauler picked up said Zazane and slammed him through the floor. The Zazane spat out his mud-like blood into the Mauler's eyes. The Mauler wiped the blood off, but the Zazane leaped up and bit into the Mauler's muzzle. The Mauler than readied an eye laser, though the Zazane slammed his fist into the laser, blasting his hand off in the process.

The Mauler's eye laser exploded in the charger, then his helmet exploded, which killed the Mauler. The Cult ship broke off and the Mauler's body slid off into space. The Mahanayan Commander then contacted the Zazane commander again.

Mahanayan Commander - "This is your final warning, Commander. Leave this planet or feel the true force of the Cult of the Deathmarch." Zazane Commander - "Ha! You t-think I'll give up so easily?"

A Xhodocto-style Hypercruiser flew overhead with a charged Hyperlaser, aiming at the Commander's ship.

Mahanayan Commander - "Oh, I think you will."

The Zazane Commander then started to poison himself. He knew all was lost, and started to surrender.

Zazane Commander - "Ugh... agh... f-fine..." Mahanayan Commander - "Very well."

Off screen, but still heard by the Zazane, the Mahanayan Commander ordered the ship to fire.

Mahanayan Commander - "Fire!"

Zazane Commander - "You Shyrak eating son of a bi-"

The Hyperlaser fired at the Zazane Commander's ship, killing him and destroying the ship. By then the Zazane had fled the planet, leaving it safe for Tyrekians to capture. The Mahanayan Commander then flew his ship back to Kies's hangar. Kies returned to greet him, Varutahira this time seeing everything from another door.

Kies - "How did it go?" Mahanayan Commander - "All Zazane dead or left the planet, although approximately 19% of the planet has been destroyed due to laser-fire." Kies - "Good. We'll send in a Tyrekian force to finish assimilating it. Thank you."

Kies then contacted Tyko to send a fleet to assimilate Dargul for the Tyrek Empire. If anything, this is another step in finalizing Kies's ultimate goal: The expulsion of all threats to the Kraw Galaxy from it.

Ko'han's rebellion
Ko'han, like many other empires in the Kraw Galaxy, is aware of Kies's intervention in the Kraw Galaxy's defense. Ko'han was neutral to this, until now. Ko'han has seen that Kies used the Cult against the Brood of War, one of the TAE's allies. Ko'han has also researched Kies since this event, leaving him to see that Kies has gone paranoid, and is actually causing more war with his policies.

Ko'han had enhough. He was about to do something so radical it could change the face of Kraw Galaxy politics for the century. He would officially join the Seven Starr Alliance. The organization is viewed by Kraw as an evil organization bent on the destruction of the Kraw Galaxy, however, to Ko'han, it was viewed as a method of protest against Kies's policies. He knew this would anger Kies, but it had a long term goal.

Ko'han would be against Kies's policies and speak loudly against them in SSA chat, but in the long term it would prove to Kies that the SSA is actually a calm organization that barely talks about "murdering the Galaxy". Ko'han had a way to show Kies this in the long term. One that would definitely not fail, but that he happened to despise a lot. One that would rather pet than flee.

Ko'han prepared the message for the SSA. It said this:

"People of the Universe, the True Asgord Empire under Ko'han Keteros would like to request a formal admission in the Seven Starr Alliance and to be part of its duties and organizations, such as Onuris. Thank you if you accept."

- Ko'han

Kies then got into a heated argument with Ko'han, condemning the TAE entry into the SSA, however, Ko'han showed Kies one of the basic laws of the Kraw Galaxy - ''War must never be declared between the Major 4. Should one of the 4 attack another, all others except the Asgord must attack the offender.'' The Iteok were the notorious breakers of this law by attacking a Tahar world 10 years ago, which resulted in a war which led to their defeat in 400 KRE. Should Kies attack the TAE or the TAE attack the Kraw, the Tahars and the Iteok would have to turn on them, which would be chaotic.

The argument eventually died out after Ko'han showed that basic law to Kies. Ko'han had single handedly proved his intellect to the Universe.

The Spy - Part 1
"Apprentice Grazos, you have a big mission. Your personality is the most similar to the Brood Zazanes's, so I want you to discard that paint. You're going to sabotage a planet."

"Yes... I renember my old Zazane life all too well. I've also served in Zazane military as part of Intelligence. I'll know all the tricks. I'll pose myself as a spy on the Zazanaarg who has returned."

"Very well. Renember, should you fail, we'll be compromised."

"Understood."

This was the conversation between Inhraahk and his apprentice, Grazos. Inhraahk had been in the Emperor position for 3 days now, and he still hasn't said a word to the general public, leaving the Kraw Empire to believe he's doing something drastic... However that's far from the truth.

Instead, he'd focus on attacking the brood in secret through the art of sabotage. Inhraahk had an advantage against the Brood - The Zazanaarg. These Zazane have rebelled against the Brood of War in 405 KRE, and started a new life in the Kraw planet of Zazanie. Some of them still retain their Brood personality, and these are who Inhraahk wanted for his missions.

He chose Grazos due to his behavior, as it was so similar to the Brood's that he even tried to change the laws of Zazanie to more Brood-ish laws. Inhraahk dispatched him to the Brood planet of Darnatine after he washed off his Zazanaarg paint and was given a Brood ship replica which was designed to look exactly like the real thing.

Grazos thought hard on what to do there. Eventually he came past FRA territory and into Brood Territory. A Brood scout noticed him.

Scout - "Mistress, we have an incoming unidentified vessel heading this way."

Gala Mevri, a respected Zazane general, looked at the scout, concerned.

Gala Mevri - "Unidentified vessel?" Scout - "Yes. Should I allow clearance?" Gala Mevri - "Affirmative."

Grazos was given clearance to land in Darnatine. He was wearing his original Zazane spy outfit which was given to him during service. When he arrived and came out of the ship, though, several soldiers approached Grazos, armed, aiming at him, and ready to shoot him at any time.

Soldier - "Speak your name!" Grazos - "My name is Grazos. I posed as a defector of the Brood as a personal espionage mission, and I can share information with you about those mongrels!"

Gala Mevri approached Grazos, looking at him with inquisitive eyes. She knew something was fishy.

Gala Mevri - "Grazos, eh? Hmph. Come with me."

Grazos followed Mevri into a discussion room, where they dicussed about his "return" from his espionage mission.

Gala Mevri - "You've been missing for some time." Grazos - "It takes a long time to gather information on them..." Gala - "Hmph. Maybe. How do I know that you're not just a traitor?"

Grazos got angry at her, however, it was more of a simulated anger, something which Grazos knew well how to do.

Grazos - "You dare put me in the same ring as those mongrels?!" Gala - "Don't forget who is in a superior position, Grazos! Now, because of your sudden return, you're gonna have to share quartres with somebody." Grazos - "Very well." Gala - *turns to him* "And that person is going to have to be me."

Grazos was annoyed by this, however, it had to be done for the sake of the mission.

Grazos - "Fine." Gala - "I'm keeping an eye on you, Grazos... You'd better not stab me in the back." Grazos - "I will not."

Gala looked at him, snarling, before she backed away and walked into her quarters. Grazos followed her, unsure of what to expect next.

Gala - "You will sleep that side of the room, on the floor."

She pointed on the left, on the floor. Grazos was clearly annoyed.

Grazos - "You don't like me, don't you?" Gala - "What made you think that?"

She growled further.

Grazos - "Your growling." Gala - "Then you got the hint that I don't like you." Grazos - "Hmph."

Grazos sat on the cold floor while Gala sat on her bed, polishing her sword. Grazos, to appear more realistic, started insulting the Zazanaarg for their democracy and also because of their leader, who had dismarched Tyraz Breek's name.

Eventually, both fell asleep, however, Grazos would get a nasty wake up call as Gala shoved Grazos for him to wake up. It was nearly dawn - Not the usual time Kraw or Zazanaarg get up.

Gala - "Wake up, its morning!" Grazos - "I'm awake..." Gala - "Get up, you're gonna miss training!"

Grazos was surprised there was training, however, he took that as fact.

Grazos - "Very well."

Gala helped him up and then shoved him into the training quarters. While that was occuring, Gala asked a question about Zazanaarg.

Gala - "Grazos, tell me what it was like in scoundrel territory." Grazos - "Everyone was happy about being weak! They laughed at us in front of rectangular moving pictures! That angered me!" Gala - "Ha! You should've studied that technology." Grazos - "I did... They called it "Jakelevoxok", Televisions, you get to select the thing you want to watch, problem? It promotes laziness!" Gala - "I can understand why such a thing would be easy to get addicted to!" Grazos - "Yes! And you know what's worse? Few turn up at military service! They'd rather gorge on food being lazy bastards, and paying to remove their putrid fat!" Gala - "Now THAT really gets me angry!"

Once again, Grazos's insults made him appear more like a real Zazane. As soon as he reached training, he saw what he hadn't seen since 404 KRE - Warriors training with both guns and swords. Grazos hadn't seen a sword in 4 years. Gala told Grazos to start his training while he was staring at the training. Grazos grabbed the shidium-enforced sword and lashed out at the wall, with his full force so that he'd appear credible. He hasn't showed said strength since 405 KRE. Gala smiled and turned away, hoping he wouldn't injure himself, which he didn't.

The Anor Krawgíl War


A shuttle touched down on the Imperial Capital Planet of, deep within the. A hooded figure stepped out and made his way to a door on the opposite side of the landing platform, entering the doorway, he made his way down the cavernous halls of the Palace of the Empire, eventually coming to majestic central throne room. When he entered, he bowed to the Emperor, who was looking outside at the sprawling city below.

The Imperator Tyranus rose to his feet and looked at his Emperor. With that, the Imperius Leader gathered a huge fleet and headed straight for the Kraw territories in Anor Krawgíl.
 * Emperor Antediluvian: Ah, the Imperator Tyranus. I have been expecting you. Rise.
 * What is your will, my master?
 * Emperor Antediluvian: With Cyrannus well and truly under Imperial rule, it is my duty to ensure that we tame the barbarious galaxies outside the Cyrannia Cluster.
 * Imperator Tyranus: What of the Quadrants, master? Surely they should be the first on our list?
 * Emperor Antediluvian: All in good time. Believe me when I tell you that Rambo Nation will fall sooner than you think.
 * Imperator Tyranus: Very good, my lord.
 * Emperor Antediluvian: However, I have my mind set on Anor Krawgíl. Its inhabitants are disgruntled with the established powers of the Gigaquadrant and our recent alliance with them is sure to win them to our favour.
 * Imperator Tyranus: The Kraw Emperor seeks our aid in ousting the United Lanat Empire and the Brood of War from his galaxy in exchange for Imperial colonization. I was unclear on how to proceed, such empires could be beneficial in the future.
 * Emperor Antediluvian: Perhaps, perhaps. Still, our plans for the Anor Krawgíl are of utmost importance, and I don't intend on anything getting in the way.
 * Imperator Tyranus: What of the meddlers? The Tybusen fools and the Draconis Inquisition.
 * Emperor Antediluvian: The Tybusen are labouring under the illusion that they are at war with us and the Inquisition will be chasing false leads. Everything is proceeding as planned.
 * Imperator Tyranus: Shall I lead the campaign in Anor Krawgíl, master?
 * Emperor Antediluvian: Yes. Go there at once. Speak with Kies, but do not act without my direct order. Do you understand?
 * Imperator Tyranus: I shall leave at once, master.

A Question of Security


While patrolling Imperial territory in Anor Krawgíl, the, high commander of the Empire's forces in the galaxy received a transmission from an approaching ship. A diplomatic ship owned by. The Imperius Leader allowed the transmission and a hologram of Kies appeared on the arm of his command chair.


 * Imperator Tyranus: Greetings, Emperor of the Kraw. Do you have a problem?
 * Kies: Yes, I am here to discuss Kraw Galaxy security. May I dock with your ship?
 * Imperator Tyranus: But of course.

However, unbeknownst to the Imperator Tyranus, Kies brought along a guest,, the infamous petter, as Kies needed someone to calm him down, and he realized that Asgordians are the best at doing that to Kraw. The two departed their ship and were escorted by two guards to the bridge of the Imperator Tyranus's Star Destroyer.


 * Imperator Tyranus: So, what is it you wish to discuss?
 * Kies: I'm here to discuss ways we can enhance Kraw Galaxy security.
 * Lezia: Awwwww, you are so cute!

Just as Lezia was about to lay her hand on the Imperator Tyranus's head, he interrupts her.


 * Imperator Tyranus: My dear, please constrain yourself. This is a serious matter.
 * Lezia: Awwwwww...
 * Kies: Quiet!
 * Lezia: Ok.

The Imperator Tyranus rises from his chair, his expression one of deep thought and sorrow.


 * Imperator Tyranus: Now, the Emperor believed something like this would happen. This is nothing short of xenophobia at the hands of the extragalactic empires.
 * Kies: Then why do they hate us?
 * Imperator Tyranus: I believe they fear what the galaxy may become once it grows greater than ever.
 * Kies: Really?
 * Imperator Tyranus: Why else would they send you death threats, my friend?
 * Kies: Indeed, they picked this time because we're weak!
 * Imperator Tyranus: I just had a thought. Perhaps the Empire can come to an arrangement with the Kraw Federation. If you would agree that Anor Krawgíl could become an Imperial protectorate, it would go a great deal to ensure your galaxy's future success.

Kies looked at the Imperator Tyranus in confusion. However, this was anticipated by him, the citizens of Anor Krawgíl valued their independence, and yet their reliance on the Empire has grown greatly in the previous months.


 * Kies: Protectorate? ... If the Kraw Federation can still have their political independence, we'll accept.
 * Imperator Tyranus: Splendid. This agreement will bring your great galaxy into the Imperial fold, while your independence will remain untouched.
 * Lezia: Oh, yay! Can I pet you now?
 * Imperator Tyranus: Oh, but you're on your way back now my dear. Pleasure doing business with you, Kies. Expect the Emperor to contact you soon. To formalize our agreement.
 * Kies Very well. Thank you!

Kies and Lezia were escorted back to their ship were it departed from the Imperator Tyranus's Star Destroyer. Kies felt extremely happy, soon the Kraw Galaxy will be put on the map as a major political force. Meanwhile, back on the Star Destroyer, the Imperator Tyranus contacted his master.


 * Imperator Tyranus: Your will has been completed, my master.
 * Emperor Antediluvian: Excellent. Everything is proceeding as planned.

A Monumental Visit
In spite of the worsening relations between the and the, many in the Imperial Senate decided that such a detiorating was to stop immediately. The Emperor himself sent a request for to visit Vencortium Prime, something the Imperium was very interested in.

Once Guolivian arrived on Vencortium, he left his shuttle and was greeted by Crown Prince Televenum, who bowed before the senator, a gesture Guolivian returned.


 * Telenvum - Esteemed greetings senator. I am Maxios Telenvum and I welcome you to Vencortium prime and the Imperium.


 * Guolivian - Honoured to meet you. I trust this day can herald a new day in our civilization's relationship.


 * Telenvum - The paragon sends his apologies, both for his recent actions and for not seeing you in person. My genetic brothers are slow paced, you understand.


 * Guolivian - I understand completely. The is no doubt the top of his majesty's priorities.


 * Telvenum - Of course, but i refer to his age. Uriel is over 200 years old and It can take some time for his kind to change their minds on certain matters.


 * Guolivian - No doubt you refer to the Empire's recent policies.


 * Telvenum - They did appear rather extreme. But. I am not in a place to question the actions of a domain far larger than the Imperium.


 * Guolivian - I have assurances from the Emperor himself that such expansion is purely peaceful. Though in some cases, conflict in unavoidable.

As Guolivian and Telvenum walked along the landing platform, they continued talking. However, Guolivian looked around in awe at the magnificence of Vencortium Prime.


 * Telvenum - The past is the past and we understand that it cannot be changed, only understood. But where are my manners, you came to see our glorious Imperium for what it is.


 * Guolivian - Indeed I have. Your Imperium's culture is of great interest to our citizens.


 * Telvenum - I am sure it is. Apparently It shares similarities with what can be found within the Empire.


 * Guolivian - So I have been told, I can already see the magnificence of your architecture.


 * Telvenum - The local Praetor had extended an invitation to a concert this afternoon within the city. Do you enjoy that sort of thing, senator?


 * Guolivian - Indeed I do, your highness.

The concert was being held in a performance house downtown. As they sat in the Concert Hall, Guolivian was treated to three hours of orchestral music followed by a violin solo. Very impressed, Guolivian and Telvenum continued to talk about the music of both of the Empire and the Imperium. Afterwards they were approached by the praetor who was wearing a gold-threaded silk robe.


 * Guolivian - Good evening.


 * Praetor Savenium - Good evening sir, His majesty tells me you hail from the empire. Did you enjoy the concert?


 * Guolivian - Thoroughly. Your people clearly show great taste in music.


 * Savenium - I'm glad you think so. Not like those uncouths of the nearby Kraw Galaxy.


 * Guolivian - I don't disagree. How they describe it as music is beyond me.


 * Savenium - Urgh, indeed. Word is going around that one of the escorts who was with the first contact group had a fit from the Kraw's so-called 'music'. Poor man needed psychiatric treatment.


 * Guolivian - Oh dear. Though that does bring up the matter of the Kraw.


 * Telvenum - Yes. Kies's declaration is no exactly going down favourably in the senate.


 * Savenium - Favourably? The senate was in outrage that such primitives dared order US to leave our colonies!


 * Guolivian - They *are* acting rash. The Empire is quickly losing faith in Kie's leadership. His recent behaviour is not suitable for a leader.


 * Savenium - I can certainly agree with that. I suppose it should be a blessing that he has recently been relieved.


 * Guolivian - Quite. We've also received reports of Cult activity in Anor Krawgíl.


 * Telvenum - The Imperium is aware. Ever since they devastated a planet controlled by the Brood of War the Imperium has been funneling troops.


 * Savenium - Keep an eye on that tongue of yours majesty, we don't want anything compromising to slip out. Now i must be on my way, goodeve to you both.


 * Guolivian - Farewell.


 * Telvenum - Goodeve sir.


 * Guolivian - We are agreed that Kies has gone too far in getting them involved, correct?


 * Telvenum - Agreed. Many nobles claim it borders on cowardice, more then that there was a report on the exonet that Kies has redeemed them from previous actions for supporting his efforts.


 * Guolivian - I know the Imperium was unhappy with the Empire claiming the galaxy a protectorate, but perhaps when the time comes, the Imperium could have a share in its organization.


 * Telvenum - I'm sure that would make the senate very happy. How are you enjoying your stay so far?


 * Guolivian - I'm enjoying it very much, thank you. I'm very impressed.


 * Telvenum - You may be intrigued to know this planet was nothing better than a lifeles sphere two millenia ago. The imperium certainly works wonders, even the local moon was constructed.


 * Guolivian - Indeed it certainly does. If you don't mind me asking, how goes the war with the TIAF?


 * Telvenum - Quite smoothly. They are being held back and systems that were briefly under their control have switched to imperial hands. Things have been quiet recently.


 * Guolivian - Good. No doubt you know, that their reputation has been severely damaged over the past few months.


 * Telvenum- We have heard that things have soured considerably between you and them. But the imeprium has not had much of a high regard for them anyway. The problem we have is that they show no respect for their enemies. They have absolutely convinced themselves that they are superior to the Imperium.


 * Guolivian - They have attempted to impede on our efforts at every turn. Of course, unsuccessfully.


 * Telvenum - The wretches act like children, deluded that they know what is better for older and larger empires.


 * Guolivian - Quite so, personality wise, they share much in common with Kies.


 * Telvenum - I am glad our two powers agree. Perhaps the Empire should consider the actions of the Imperium.


 * Guolivian - In what way, my friend?


 * Telvenum - When the Shellious tried to goad the empire the senate tried to intervene. They consulted with Edoshai about calling off any military action and when they persisted we threatened them with the warning of an extra-imperial communications blackout.


 * Guolivian - A wise move. Though know, the actions of the Shellious in no way impede our positive view on the Imperium at large.


 * Telvenum - Uriel did tell me that your emperor had only lost respect for the Shellious.


 * Telvenum - The protectorates are like children at times. Sometimes you have to step in and pull their hand away from the fireplace before they burn themselves.


 * Guolivian - Quite true.

''
 * Telvenum - ''It seems our two cultures and ways of thinking are very alike. Perhaps the Imperium was wrong to think your Empire was a danger.
 * Guolivian - I assure you, we have no negative intentions to the Imperium. Though I'm afraid I must return to the Senate. But I'm happy to say, that the Imperium greatly exceeded my expectations.


 * Telvenum - I'm sure Uriel would be delighted to hear this and I have personally enjoyed your company. May the bodsn between the Draconid Imperium and the Galactic Empire of Cyrannus grows strong with time.


 * Guolivian - I have also enjoyed your company, your majesty. Give the Paragon my regards.


 * Telvenum - That i will, safe journey senator.

With that, the Senator entered his shuttle, leaving the Draconid Imperium with better relations with the Empire than when he arrived.

Infiltration


"I answer to your question Ranom, my next target is the unorganized mess of impolitic pond scum, called the Kraw Federation."

- The Dictator

The Dictator stood in a large lit room shaking hands with the Tyrenne leader called Ranom. With the Rotatcid and Tyrennes joining together, the Dictator's establishment of a major Kraw galaxy superpower was certain. The major three nations of the Rotatcid Alliance were ready to launch a strike on the Kraw Federation to assert dominance over the unified empires.


 * The Dictator: Now, we will covertly attack the nearest Kraw colony, planet Abhorik.
 * Advisor Tragor: Shall I send in my legions sir?
 * The Dictator: No, there will be no need for that. We will insert a spy onto the planet who will disable all of their communications with the rest of the empire. Then, we will attack.
 * Adviser Tragor: Remember sir, the Kraw Emperor Kies is a security monger. He will have the colony well defended. It will not be easy.
 * Adviser Ranom: You need not worry about that. I have some schematics of weak points in the defenses to breach. I shall send the my best agent twomorrow.
 * The Dictator: Good, good. Soon, the Federation will know my power...

The next day, Adviser Ranom dispatched his finest agent, Coro'Emalutso infiltrate the Kraw-Tyrenne colony called Abhorik. It was a relatively large city with a high population in the middle of a medium-sized island in Abhorik's largest ocean. The city had a population of a few thousand, but it housed a base for the Kraw Federation's outer rim communications. Underground, there was a large base with hundreds of Kraw soldiers. If the communications were disconnected, the Kraw would lose all contact with the outer rim in a 20pc radius of the colony. So, naturally, it was well protected. That radius would give the plenty of room to amass a larger army to openly attack the nearby Kraw-Arm Colonies. He sneaked through the city streets without notice, as he looked like any normal Tyrenne. His emotionally unstable nature made it difficult for him to restrain himself as he felt the urge to attack the passing Kraw citizens and Tyrenne emigrants. He made his way towards the central hall in the middle of the city and took the one of the elevators down to the lowest level, which contained the orbit defense and communications controls. There, two Kraw guards attempted to stop him, but he simply used his hidden blades to kill them both immediately. Then he approached the main computer and deactivated its defenses and communications. His personal ship then emerged in the city and teleported him onto it just before the alarm sirens went off and hundreds of soldiers flooded into the comms room.

When the spy returned to the Rotatcid space station, The Citadel, he reported back to his masters.
 * Coro'Emalutso: It is done, my lord.
 * The Dictator: Good good. Send in the First Impassive Fleet to capture the planet. Then we shall gather more races to our cause, and attack the Kraw Federation more directly.

Shortly after the spy left Abhorik, The Dictator's fleet arrived and entered the planet's atmosphere. The small fleet, consisting of two Consumption-Class Frigates and four Tempest-Class Destroyers.

Battle of Abhorik
Stage 1 As the fleet moved into Abhorik's atmosphere, the Kraw forces took off to intercept the Rotatcid fleet. Two Lengtaar-Class Cruisers departed from the underwater hangar and moved across the continent to meet-up with and engage the Rotatcid ships before they reached the city. The two fleets traveled many miles before finally meeting up, and the subsequent battle was short and decisive.

As the two Lengtaar ships closed in, they began to fire their tracking magnetic missiles to home-in on the Rotatcid ships. The Consumption-Class ships dispatched flares to intercept the missiles and then launched missiles of their own while the Tempest-Class ships began firing particle phasers. The two Lengtaar ships immediately returned fire, releasing a barrage of magnetic missiles. This time however, they struck home, disabling the phasers of one of the Tempests, and it is forced to retreat. As the missiles strike, the Rotatcid ships launch transphasic pseudometal warheads that struck the ships, disabling many of their weapons. And, as the first Lengataar ship fired its plasma cannons, one of the Rotatcid ships fires a particle beam that sliced through the other Lengtaar ship which subsequently exploded violently. As the ship exploded, the other one was forced to retreat. The Rotatid ships launched drop-ships to land troops in the city. And stage one of the attack was complete.

Stage Two After the Lengtaar ship retrated to the base on the far side of the planet, underwater, the pods launched from the Rotatcid ships landed in the city. After avoiding the AA-turrets, the pods crashlanded on the edge of the city. A number of inquisitive Kraw, unaware of the Rotatcid invasion, were curious about these pods falling from the sky. The first pod, being the largest, opened up, and four figures walked out of it. One was an Ilegan, one was a Scorsh, one was a Keelaw, and the fourth was an Orygo. One stood up, the Ilegan, in the front of the pods, before all of the civilians.

One civillian, walked up in front of the Ilegan, whose name was Darom. The citizen barely got the words "Who are-" out of his mouth before the Ilegan grabbed his neck, lifted him up off of the ground, pulled out his weapon, and fired a piercing laser strait throught the Kraw's torso. The body fell to the ground, lifeless, with a hole in his chest and back. The Ilegn put one foot on the dead body and let out a roar that rang across the silent city. The rest of the Kraw and Tyrennes just stood there, stunned. Then, all of the other pods opened, revealing at least one hundred Legion soldiers, all armed. Then, the citizens panicked. They ran screaming throught the streets, only to be killed by a soldier's gun. Sirens began to sound, and hundreds of Kraw pour out of the catacombs in the underground complex.

The following battle was fierce. The four main leaders of the Legion strikeforce stood up to the front, slicing through the Kraw soldiers, and slaughtering any civillians unlucky enough to be in the line of fire. The cruisers began dropping more troops from far away until there were over 600 soldiers in the city. However, the Kraw soldiers refused to surrender, and also had armor units. The large tanks with mounted T-Shock guns were fierce opponents, and it took many Legion soldiers to disable them.However, the four main leaders did manage to infiltrate the center building. Disguised as a normal building, it was actually heavily fortified on the inside. If not for the leader's riot shields, they would have been massacred on the spot. Upon opening the doors, they were met by a barrage of plasma from a turret. The Orygo leader, whose name was Xan, turned his riot-shield slightly. Just enough for him to point his rocket-propelled grenade launcher at the turret. The subsequent explosion destroyed the entire area, and all of the Kraw troops in that room. The four then walked into the elevator and traveled to the top floor. They used their limited stealth to move into the room without notice of all of the Kraw soldiers. The Scorsh leader, whose name was Vro'Mon, then lobbed a grenade at the Kraw, which exploded, destroying most of the equipment and many of the soldiers. The remaining ones turned their weapons on the intruders, but were quickly killed and the leaders advanced to the main computer. The Keelaw, whose name was Gzoma walked up to the city's control panel. There, they deactivating the AA-guns, leaving the city defenseless. And stage two of the attack was complete.

Stage Three The large group of soldiers moved to the dropships landing on the island's edge. Most of the surviving Kraw rejoiced that the attack was (seemingly) over. What they did not see was the group of bombers moving in from the south. After the city was evacuated of Legion soldiers, the bombers moved in and destroyed the entire city in a flurry of bombs, obliterating all of the Kraw and Tyrennes that remained in the city. When the Kraw fleet heard of this, they followed the bombers back up into space to deal with the Rotatcid fleet directly. And stage three of the attack was complete.

Stage Four After the bombers destroyed the city, and the troops made it back up to the drop ships, the entire strike force went up into space. The last three remaining Lengtaar ships began a vicious pursuit of the Rotatcid fighters. The three ships entered space and found only empty nothingness. They had to use their computers to follow the trail of vapor left behind by the fighter's engines. They made their way across the orbit to the opposite side of the planet. But what they found their, only caused a panic.

An enormous ship with a central dome and hundreds of armaments, and an even larger space station with a MAC (magnetic accelerator cannon) Gun aimed at the smaller cities on the planet's surface. To the Kraw's horror, the MAC gun fired again and again, each shot accompanied by an explosion on the planet's surface. The three Lengtaar ships immediately opened fire with their protonic and magnetic missiles that honed-in on the space station. The missiles made contact with the MAC gun, destroying it in a blast. The space station then released five small, Consumption-Class ships to dispatch the Kraw's fleet. The Consumption ships immediately launched several antimatter missiles, which immobilized half of one of the Lentaar ships, forcing it to fall back.

The Kraw, however, did not give up, and relentlessly pursued their attackers and fought back the Rotatcid ships with both of their remaining cruisers. The Rotatcid were not expecting this and began to slowly retreat. The command ship with the dome, the Alltor began charging up a large weapon which fired, colliding with a single ship, which exploded. The final ship remaining, the command ship, knew that they could not win the battle, with the Consumption-class cruisers closing in too quickly. They launched their crew in cloaked escape pods just as the command ship was destroyed. They were nearly out of orbit when they were detected. And stage four of the attack was complete.
 * Rotatcid Fleet Officer: Sir, we have detected cloaked escape pods leaving orbit. What should we do?
 * Adviser Ranom: We could let them strike fear into the Kraw's hearts!
 * Adviser Tragor: ...
 * The Dictator: No. Everything depends on our anonymity. Open fire.

Ammassing
Coming soon...

All According to Plan
Date: 04/00/408 KRE

Mahedore watched through a mental link what was going on in Azakom, the first world to be infected with the virus Mahedore brought upon the Tahars. He, most importantly, looked at the target of the Vial he sent 3 days earlier, containing the virus. The host was carefully selected. He was a door to door salesman. Tahars usually purchase most things online, but sometimes, these salesmen can incentivate the purchase or trial of certain obscure products, since these are highly overshadowed online. He went door to door, every apartment in every building in his neighboorhood, trying to sell his products, but 98% of the time getting denied by the people living there. However, what he didn't know is that he was spreading a virus throughout the population. Even without touching the host, just breathing near the host can lead to infection, making it a very spread out virus. And only Mahedore knows the cure. At one point, the salesman, named Hagkus, started to show more agressivity in his job, and started to shout and yell at him. He then got a transmission from his workplace. They told him to leave his workpost for today, as he is showing abnormal amounts of stress. As soon as he got the message, Hagkus left the building in anger, and walked home, in anger.

No Tahar knew where his stress was coming from, but they decided to wait a day. However, that would become a bad idea eventually...

The Spreading
Hagkus had himself checked out many times until 03/01/408 KRE, the 7th day since he was infected, where he appeared at the Azakom medical care center. He arrived to his emergency appointment and was strapped to a chair with steel tape to prevent an outburst. They checked his body. They had found a new form of virus, the RNA spelling out "M4 H3 D0 R3". The scientists wondered about this RNA sample, and noticed mutations were occuring in Hagkus's body, he was getting more and more monster-like, which larger pincers and muscles, and a 2nd pair of pincers protruding from his back, it was a horrid sight to the scientists.

Soon after, Hagkus, now unable to control himself, broke free from his steel wires strapping him and started to head outside the room, but the scientists held onto him, preventing him to leave, then he was anestized with a powerful formula that was intended for Loron. The scientists sighed in relief. One of them, Scientist Gyarus, wondered if the disease was one that could be spread from Tahar to Tahar, so he performed the exams on himself.

His partner, Kaer, discovered that indeed, Gyarus had the virus on him. Gyarus realized that he had about less than a KRE week to get himself cured, or otherwise he would end up like Hagkus. He also wondered about Kaer, but it turns out he had the virus on him too. Mahedore's plan was coming to fruition.

As the days passed, Kaer and Gyarus seeked a cure, but they were unable to find it, seeing as the virus was one of the most resilient in Tahar history, and once the 7 days passed, they too became monsters, like 2500 Tahars now, who wrecked havoc on Azakom. This prompted the Taharian government to close the whole Klaiserdakom region, in which Azakom was in the middle. Nothing could be imported or exported, nobody could enter or leave. Many Tahars in the Klaiserdakom region protested against this move, and attempted to leave the region though their own ships. Unfortunately one of them wasn't healthy, and headed for the Kurdalkom region, which borders the Terkom region.

By Binaar 408 KRE, the planet of Ugrokom would feel the virus's effects as well, and as a cure is still far from being discovered, Horkarew turned to the Universe for help...

Mahedore's plan was going just as planned. He then wondered about the 2 month lifespan every infected Tahar would have, and calculated the death year for the Tahar species, which was 413 KRE. Mahedore was amazed at these results. He knew in time, the species would die out.

Migration
By the time the virus hit Kurdalkom in 11/03/408 KRE, Tahars in the Terkom and Kurdalkom regions began fleeing by the thousands, later millions, towards other empires. It was a time of distress, caused by an event nobody was prepared for. It was The Great Tahar Migration of 408 KRE, which involved Tahars fleeing from Tahar territory to avoid the virus. Horkarew began fleeing not towards Horehronie, but towards Hateos, the safest place to be in a time like this.

Eko also fled the Tahar Empire, fleeing to Horehronie. While Eko was fleeing, he noticed the main events on the Galaxy's latest news, including the planning of a 2nd attack against the ULE by the Kraw, Tyrekians and the GEC, and an attack by the Gros on the FRA. Eko thought the Kraw needed some help, and he was going to offer himself to do it.

Many empires tried to find cures for the Tahar virus, however, the virus was known to be near-invincible, however, everyone agreed on something - the virus was artificial. Mahedore smiled at the success of the virus, which by Trinaar 408 KRE had affected 110 Million Tahars, and the numbers were rising. The Tahar Migration would lead refugees at random worlds, all for one goal: To survive.

It was chaotic. Eko scolded Kies for incentivating the Universe to attack the Kraw Galaxy, however, Kies came up with the same excuse that he had "higher powers" at his side. He was planning to launch a spy at the Brood, and an attack at the ULE, however he was also worried about the Tahar race. Eko could not blame Kies for that, the virus began before the conflict began.

Can Kies handle a Galaxy in war? Or will everything fall apart in his eyes?

Eko's visit
A while after Kies discovered the fake files against the GEC, he left his tower and headed towards the airport. He saw the city was barely lit, and assumed this to be a cloudy day, until Kies saw it was a big fleet of Taharian ships with destination to Horehronie. Kies was confused as he knew Tahars knew that Horehronie was majorly overpopulated. He wondered what all the fuss was about.

Kies took the easy way there - by taking the Yorgan flying transportation service to the space flight station, and there, he saw Kraw gatherting by the thousands to see the commotion, one megaphone always saying "This is a government issue, please back down." Even then, the people wanted to see what was happening. Kies walked towards the spaceport, demanding passage to the public blocking his path.

As he entered the spaceport, people were glaring at Kies as he was walking towards the shipyard section, showing expressions of confusion and questionment. Nobody had any idea of what was to happen, but Kies only knew Eko would be there. As he entered, he could recognize only one face: Eko's. The others were unknown to him.

Eko said the first words.

Eko - "My empire's in danger for reasons beyond our control. We took the best of our people here to safety. Let no other Tahar in."

Kies, wierded out, but knowing of the virus, said:

Kies - "Isn't that quite... extreme?" Eko - "The virus is undetectable until it begins to act, we can't detect any 1st day infected, and the virus kills and corrupts. Millions died so far. Worlds are closed for good. Don't argue Kies, if we "pick the healthy" we'll be at risk." Kies - "How much of the population have you saved?" Eko - "Half. Like how much people would be left after a Xarik-Radux invasion." Kies - "That is sad." Eko - "The virus is still contagious after death, so we fear the worst, that's why I want Kraw to find the cure." Kies - "Very well, there is one contact we have of a powerful species, though I'm not sure if my deal covers viruses..." Eko - "Try. We 100000 will be staying here."

The Tahars then took their ships to an abandoned large hill land once owned by an ancient Kraw family whose nembers died, and settled there. All 22 ships landed and started building the essentials. Many Tahar children or young adults who felt bored by the simplistic hill style were taken by the Kraw to the nearby city of Auskom from time to time. Though they'll need to learn that they're here until the situation is contained.

Eko though, decided to stay with Kies, acting as a backup commander for Operation: Freedom. Eko even got around to see his collection of luminous swords, called Ketargs in Kraw society, though Eko deemed them worthless, which made Kies reply that they could come in handy at one point. Kies has been trained in the art of the Ketarg, which is now close to extinction, though Kies still prefers his conventional and unconventional weaponry.

Eko and Kies later discussed their next plans with the ULE and the Gros. If anything, they would be busy for a while.

Cure?
1 year has passed since the virus infection has begun. The Tahar Empire is literally divided between a safe zone and an infected zone. Both sides can never interact in any way possible, under threat of further infection. There were only 4 safe regions left in the Empire - Terkom, Azakom, Idarekom, and Auatokom. 13 of them fell to the virus spread. Many in those regions fled to nearby safe empires such as the Terridor Federation and the Ishtavel Imperium - However, more than half of the emigrants were infected and started to cause chaos in those empires. They were killed.

However, a beacon of light shone when the Secular States of Zhormandrevus tested a potential vaccine against an infected who emigrated into the SSZ before showing the most obvious symptoms of the vaccine. As they administered the vaccine into the infected Tahar, after 10 minutes, the Tahar stopped growling and trying to release himself. He then questioned:

"What's going on?!"

The doctors who assisted the Tahar clapped in joy at the success of the vaccine, which halted his murdering tendencies. However, it would take genetic re-engineering to fix him back to his normal self. The Tahar was shocked at him being a monster, but was administered an anestesiac shortly after.

The SSZ then began making mass amounts of the vaccine over the next month for it to be administered to Tahar worlds. By Trinaar 409 KRE they had over 10 Billion vaccines loaded into vaccine pistols, which are designed to administer the vaccine faster across worlds.

On 11/03/409 KRE, a mission was finnaly sent by the SSZ with the consent of the Kraw Federation to Telkom, whose cities were slightly ruined from the infected who were crushing buildings. The ship was close to entering the Tahar Empire, until a strong and powerful quake shook the ship. The captain on the ship, Mistel Vil, feared it was an Iteok attack, however, the ship was strangely reporting no disturbances. Mistel Vil decided to check himself what happened to the ship. He had searched almost every section before checking the cargo section.

Mistel Vil could not believe his eyes.

"The cure... it's gone!"

All the vaccine pistols and other necessary equipment vanished without a trace, with no clue as to how it happened. However, he saw a paper on the floor. He picked it up, however, it was in a script he didn't know. It looked Taharian, though the letters were diffrent and a bit more complex. Was this Taharian? Was this the infected's language? Whichever the case, the mission had to be cancelled.

2 days later, Mistel Vil came to Horehronie to discuss the paper he found. Inhraahk and Eko both saw the paper and attempted to translate using universal translators, however, it was written in an unrecognized language. If the translators had knowledge of almost every language in the universe, why not this one? What was so special? Inhraahk feared it was divine intervention, however Eko obviously ruled out that possibility.

However they managed to translate one phrase in the paper - One written in KUL in microscopic size. It read:

"We are coming to save the Galaxy."

Kies's Fated Assault
When the Delpha Coalition of Planets had vanished, the denziens of the Kraw galaxy believed, mostly with relief, that the DCP had been destroyed. Their return was at first marked with skepticism by the Tahar, and as an omen by the more religious nations. The Kraw themselves were horrified by their return although not enough to dislike the new Galactic Empire of Cyrannus, who only formed shortly before its rebirth of a Republic and in its last act saved the Delpha Coalition of Planets from the collapsing scaffold of the pocket universe.

As the DCP began to re-settle, Kies believed an initial attack would prove victorious for his forces, and would frighten the DCP from ever touching "his" galaxy again. He sent a force of 50 warships, led by commander Dorhnahik. For a Tier 4 Empire they were formidible, bristling with singularity slingers and death rays, left overs from what the Tokzhalan Empire had once traded them with. Unfortunately for the ships, they never even touched DCP space. The Milky Way galaxy was actually so crammed with alien civilisations the Kraw had not anticipated, blundering straight into recently claimed Grox territory, and after merging with the Borg, had become a threat powerful enough to endanger almost any Tier 1 civilisation. The fleet put up a good fight, but unfortunatly the Grox were now adapted and impervious to death rays and had tactics to keep the singularity torpedoes out of harms way. The ships were hunted for three days. The botched assualt only brought more fear of other galaxies, and shortly after, the DCP declared war on Kies.

The DCP were once allies with the Kraw, they believed they had potential as representitives, but they had a lack of understanding foreign relations. The DCP before resorted to an assualt on their space industry, and issuing "education". This is where the hatred began. But the DCP's presence had never actually left the galaxy, in the form of a self-replicating biobot, the nanites mimicked the neurons of different species, but planting a signal which the DCP could use to watch. Only the MSP knew of this, and spread a conspiracy that the DCP could actually control the Kraw's motor functions and mindset. Were the DCP able to control an entire galaxy? Time would tell.

Enter the Consortium
The Consortium was a loose syndicate of like-minded Tier 5 and 4 empires with the soul-purpose in stopping DCP expansion in the Milky Way, they were founded centuries before as the DCP spread its influence around the Milky Way, after the defeat of the Grox, there was much hope, but they were dashed when the DCP stole the Galactic core for themselves. The Consortium were never a threat to the DCP, but their assymetrical warfare meant it wasn't always easy for the DCP to hunt them to extinction. Long believed to have disbanded, the Consortium came out of the shadows after the DCP's genocide of the Empire of Halloway, with an offer of membership. Alliance with the Kraw, Tahar and Iteok soon followed.

Eventful Diplomacy
The had contacted the Kraw Galaxy about a diplomatic meeting. They had been told to meet a contact on the planet Vaskriig to discuss relations. The Council of Ten (The LSA's ruling Council) arrived at the planet and heard about the war of Tzhrhokia. The LSA declared that they would send a military fleet and many specialist negotiators to Kraw to keep political order. They would stay neutral unless attacked.

The next day, an LSA ship was attacked by a vessel of the Tahars. The LSA were enraged; they had fought the Tahar before, due to their god Elzhei, but this attack was completely unprovoked. No further attacks came, but the LSA were wary of the Tahars. They now saw that Tzhrhokia could potentially involve them as more than just peacekeepers, and that they may be forced to fight against their former allies.

Unrest in Kread
At the same time, in the, the people of Kread were restless. They kept hearing stories of Kraw's crusade, and a growing movement in the was in favour of Kread taking similar action to Kraw. Many saw this would be suicide; it was a rough universe, they were weak compared to most, and this would stretch their military to breaking point, allowing the an easy advantage. Still, riots and protests were breaking out every day, and clashes between supporters were common.

Eventually, the decision was made. Kread would enter Tzhrhokia, to fight for Kraw.

Attack of Zime'enes
Cultist 1 - ''This planet is just... too peaceful. There must be something wrong here. Are you sure that there would be no opposition, brother?'' Cultist 2 - ''Are you mad? How can you even doubt the words of our master?!'' Cultist 3 - ''Brother, we all know that FRA does not even have a military force. So let's not be scared of Asgord and do our mission: kill Diplomat Lezia Ipevreia - no subtlety is needed - and leave the world immediately. Simple as hell.'' Cultist 1 - ''Ah... yes. Purger be praised, brother.''

This conversation was made on the top of the major shopping mall of Ekta'es City, where Lezia was spending her time now. As she was going to leave the building, explosions thundered around her as walls fell on her, trapping her within a burning house. Suddenly, humans in black armor - ists - surrounded her, appearing from the flames, with guns in their hands. One of them, however, clutched a shining blue orb in his hand - a Mali'Nar artifact meant to prevent Lezia from coming back from the dead. Lezia screamed in horror, preparing to meet her death... as all of a sudden, another Asgord in expensive, elaborate clothings appeared behind the humans.

??? - Not so fast.

A mysterious Asgord swiftly grabbed the human with a Mali'Nar orb and threw him in the conflagration, his armour quickly melting in the fire. Other human terrorists fell into confusion, being not prepared for their enemy - moreover a FRA Asgord - to fight back. Taking the opportunity, Lezia's protector kicked another cultist, breaking his bones and causing him to fall on the ground, losing his gun. Stranger has immediately grabbed the gun and started to fire at the remaining cultists. One by one, humans fell on the ground helpless, confused and dead. The survivors fled the ruins and disappeared in the shadows. Lezia has hugged her saviour immediately, who has led her out of the burning building to the surface. Asgord journalists have already surrounded the mall, taking photos and praising the mysterious stranger.

Lezia - ''Wheeee! Thank you for saving me, stranger. What's your name?'' ??? - Alo'emonraz. Lezia - ''Wheee, what a beautiful name! You are so cute, Alo, perhaps we could meet again one day?'' Alo'emonraz - ''I would like that, madame. I'll give you my home's coordinates, we could meet again on the next Heptaag.'' Lezia - ''Piece of cake? Goodbye, see you!'' Alo'emonraz - Goodbye, madame...

Alo'emonraz has left the city, vanishing without a trace. Lezia found this strange, but she did not care. It seemed she had fallen into love yet again...

Deep withing the Mali'Nar dimension, The Dark Purger waited, angered with his mistress' will. She commanded him to act against his "creations", the Kraw Galaxy, and while he was too loyal to her to disagree, he was certainly not happy with her order. The arrival of his minion, Alo'emonraz, could not help less...

TDP - What news do you bring, Alo'emonraz? Alo'emonraz - ''Operation done, my master. Lezia will trust me soon enough, and then... the plan of our mistress would be completed. However, I fear that I have accidentally, erm, killed some of your cultists during the operation...'' TDP - ''ARE YOU MAD? My followers belong to me, and me alone!''

Screeching with rage, the Dark Purger grabbed Alo'emonraz and surged dark energies into him, causing the ascended Asgord to scream in pain.

TDP - ''Next time, Alo'emonraz, you would be more... careful. Her will MUST be done.'' Alo'emonraz - Yes, my master...