Fiction:Second Borealis Galactic War/Original/Wrath of Gods/Hellish Presence

This is the second stage of Wrath of Gods.

=Blank Existence=

Hard to Accept
In Mirras III's ship, Mac watched as Mirras walked in, cackling evil.

Mac - ''So...you've got yourself another shard. I bet you're so fucking pleased you don't need me to power your ship anymore, do ya?'' Mirras III - Oh, you're so funny.

Mirras III tortured Mac.

Mirras III - You're not leaving.

Mac grunted, and then the Mechanic came in. The Mechanic stood there, silently. Mirras III's eyes shined blue and he lifted the Mechanic into his direction via telekinesis.

Mirras III - Explain your actions.

The Mechanic shook his head, still in mid-air. Mirras III started to choke him.

The Mechanic - ''I only take orders from Kormacvar! Not the assholes who killed them!'' Mirras III - ''I am Kormacvar! Have you forgotten the point of all this?'' The Mechanic - ''You don't look like one to me! If Regnatus wants to give me an order, he'll give me one!''

Mirras III threw the Mechanic next to Mac. The Mechanic was hurt, but stood up.

Mirras III - ''You want his orders? Well, he can hear you right now!''

Regnatus' hologram appeared.

Regnatus - Why did you let Arkarixus live, slave? The Mechanic - I...I'm not sure, sir...I'm sorry. Regnatus - ''You disappoint me. More of this attitude will result in your annihilation.''

The Mechanic nodded, then saluted.

Regnatus - Now, resume the operation.

Regnatus' hologram disappeared. The Mechanic turned to Mirras.

The Mechanic - ''I installed the shard correctly, sir. With three power sources, the plan should work correctly. The Caretakers are preparing all the ships' weapons as we speak. They'll also be busy monitoring the activity in the Cold Relays, and relaying information back here. And Mirras...I got a feeling I should be trusting you.'' Mirras III - ''Trust? No. You must obey me without any question. Me and Regnatus are one of the same. Now, get your sorry carcass off my palace before I put you in the wall next to the Taldar over there.''

The Mechanic nodded, muttering "geez...and you wonder why I prefer Regnatus.." as he left.

Mac - ''Huh. Your own followers hate you. You're not doing too well...'' Mirras III - Caretakers will be discontinued by the time the plan is complete so I could not care less for them. Mac - And I'm sure my outside help couldn't care less for you... Mirras III - ''Yeah. That. I'm still waiting.'' Mac - You shouldn't wait much longer, dickhead... Mirras III - ''Huh. Whatever you say. Now if you excuse me, I have things to do.''

Mirras III left. Mac spat, and hung there.

What were the Grox up to?

Pre-emtpive Strike
A usual conference meeting was begun, preparing the attack.

Fre'kloar - sup guys Nu - Sorry I'm late...what are we doing? Kralgon Emperor - ''I think we all know what to do, no need for a briefing. Gol'thabex is being held somewhere...but I have no idea where. No one's found GTFO's territory.'' Vekaron - ''I don't get it, why are these people attacking the Imperium? We don't even know them.'' Tyraz - How do we miss such a successful empire in Borealis? Kralgon Emperor - No one knows, Vekaron...GTFO are mysterious as hell. Nu - ''Ah. The old invasion technique. This is an on foot thing, am I correct?'' Tralkik Commander - I do believe it shall be on foot, yes. Baptarion - ''By the looks of it, and according to Zaarkhun, they do. And they serve Zargoth. Zargoth being in possession of a shard is the opposite of what we want.'' Sarec - And we suddenly trust Zaarkhun?

Yogtam shrugged.

Yogtam - What other leads do we have? Nu - ''Well...I have this new weapon that we took from the Agent V program. This should come useful.'' Tralkik Commander - ''Speaking of Zaarkhun, I have just recieved a message from him. He has sent us Gol'thabex' location. I say we should excercise caution, making sure we have escape methods and backup when approaching the target.'' Xerkea - ''Now that the Alvino are defeated, we're getting a moment of "calm before the storm". So we should be able of dealing with these GTFOs without being disturbed.'' Kralgon Emperor - Yes, and the quicker we deal with GTFO, the quicker we can have some peace. Yogtam - ''Yes, I do predict Zaarkhun's lying to us. Maybe he's set a trap for us... Zr'Ahgloth - ''OI MA IM GETTIN IMPATIENT LETS GO!!!!!!!!!!! Sarec - ''The sooner we get this done the sooner I can return to finding the other shards.

Zr'Ahgloth began smashing buttons on the UNO Omega Commander.

Yogtam - ''Ugh. We know what happened last time...'' Sarec - And if this is a trap then I hope your gods are read to protect you... Nu - ''So what are we dealing with here? A god race? Biological fungi?'' Baptarion - Apparently it's a group of Kralgon, Tralkik and Xenoforms.

Zr'Ahgloth smashed on the buttons, hitting the "override button", but rather than overriding UNOS and taking over, he smashed the button.

Zr'Ahgloth - dafuq Kal'kuir - hur man yor even moar clumsy dan frekloar

All the fleets left to a space station lying in deep space. Nu was prepping up a gauntlet fitted on to his left hand.

Xerkea - ''So what's the plan? Invade it guns blazing?'' Tralkik Commander - ''I have detailed plans of this stations' layout. All routes of the interior have been detailed in Zaarkhun's documents. He's even layed out a list of plans A-G on how to enter, but has shown that a stealth attack by a select few who can handle an all-out assault is the best approach to getting past its defences.'' Vekaron - I'm not very good at stealth. Sarec - I can be stealthy, don't let my size fool you. Nu - ''Neither am I. If you haven't noticed I'm over 1000 kg and 4m tall. I'll go see if I can find a cloaking unit.'' Zr'Ahgloth - ''meh. once ya sneek in to da stashon accordin to dis yoo can den go guns blazin an stoof. its jus da gettin in part'' Vekaron - Alright, I'll call Arkarixus here, I guess some fighting will be good for him... Tuolog - ''Maybe I help him. I could hop on his shoulder and help him mentally, as well as with Essence.''

Sarec fitted a gauntlet to his wrist with a large canister facing outards. Nu came back with a cloaking unit.

Nu - Anything that comes to contact with me is dead. Xerkea - Okay, let's go! Tralkik Commander - I shall initialise the teleporters.

The Commnder input several codes, and all the combatants put on a small device. The teleporters activated, and they all expected a trap. However, it worked, and they got inside together.

Sarec - Ready.

As they apporached the station, Sarec and Nu both activated emitters that cloaked him in a light-bending field making him practically invisible.

Zr'Ahgloth - ''woah man zaarkhuns teleporta worked? da hell man i was expectin him ta kill is wiv dis'' Fre'kloar - hes ma homie man Hagto'Zhl - I WANNA TALK TA ROSHISIZ Y HE GOES TRAITA DUMBO ON US Nu - Can't see me now can you? Hagto'Zhl - ''eh? who seid dat?'' Nu - Exactly. Arkarixus - Less chat, more action.

Tuolog hopped on Arakarixus' back, and Arkarixus suddenly felt more calm, more focused, and far more powerful. Everyone walked across several corridors cloaked, until they reached a huge elevator. Nu activated his gauntlet.

Tralkik Commander - ''We shall use this elevator to reach the 7th floor. The fight fits are located there. We will have to fight our way in, and fight HXTs once inside.'' Vekaron - Understood. Nu - ''Excellent. First time I've done hand-to-hand killing in quite some time. Now before we reach the floor, what kind of ammunition do the GTFO use?'' Tralkik Commander - ''That is variable. Mostly, these use poison/acid with their HXTs; various lasers and other rounds with the Kralgon and Tralkik.'' Nu - ''I'm saying this because this gauntlet, if tuned correctly can disrupt their ammunition. As well as cause them some other troubles...'' Vekaron - A nice trick. Nu - Other troubles, I mean this.

Nu aimed the gauntlet at Hachi and telekinetically grasped him with the gauntlet.

Hachi - ''Eeek! H-Hey hey! P-Put me down, t-this isn't funny!''

Sarec loosened his armes and the muffled sound of chains could be heard.

Family Reunion
The elevator rose up, and then arrived on the floor. Everyone turned off the cloaking devices, and were in a new corridor. This one, rather than chrome-looking and nice, was more dank. Several Tralkik troopers arrived.

GTFO Tralkik - Identify yourselfs instantly. Arkarixus - Your end.

Sarec uncloaked and fired two harpoons from his gauntlets, he then pulleld himself towards thee nmy, tearing their torsos out.Along the harpoon robe were several razor-sharp teeth, he swung them in an arc which tore at the Tralkik. More GTFO Tralkik squads arrived and fired rapid fire shots instantly, knocking the Kralgon Emperor out badly wounded. Tyraz stepped forward, Firesword in hand as he cackled maniacally.

Arkarixus surrounded himself in psychic power and charged at the Tralkik with lightning speed, tearing it apart. Tyraz' skin began to turn black and his yellow scars appeared again; he raised his hand and sended several powerful blasts of fire at the Tralkik. More Tralkik reinforcements arrived, attaching themselves to the ceiling, firing at them from above. Zr'Ahgloth grabbed a few Tralkik and ripped them up, while Fre'kloar, Hagto'Zl and Jol'kiar punched at those who came down.

Hachi tried to fight the Tralkik but got severely beaten and overpowered. Sarec continued to swing his 'whip', rending anyone who got caught by them. He leaped and tumbled around the battlefield. Nu telekinetically grasped one of the Tralkik and hurled it about the room, attempting to throw the other Tralkik off the ceiling. Vekaron striked some Tralkiks with his vibroblade, while Arkarixus teared another apart.

The Tralkik seemed to run out, and they proceeded through the corridor, into an enormous room with little lighting, that seemed to be made of brown-ish, organic matter. A hologram of Roshisiz appeared.

Roshisiz - ''You got inside? Idiots, you just went straight into the HXT's den...'' Hagto'Zhl - OI ROSHISIZ MAN IM TELLIN MA DAD ON YOO Roshisiz - Grr, Hagto'Zhl, die!

An elite Tralkik dropped on Hagto'Zhl from the ceiling, pinnig Hagto'Zhl to the ground, and then whacking him with vibroblades.

Sarec - ''Bring your bugs, puppet. I have the meathooks all ready.''

Tyraz ran over and slammed his sword into the Tralkik on Hagto. A few massive, gargantuan HXTs appeared, with massive, thorned arms and acid-spitters. Sarec threw his harpoon at them. Arkarixus and Zr'Ahgloth both charged at the HXTs while Hagto'Zhl got back up.

Hagto'Zhl - OK IM DEFO TELLIN MA DAD ON YOO NAO

Roshisiz ordered another Tralkik to drop on the Kralgon Emperor. Unlike Hagto'Zhl, the Kralgon Emperor couldn't take the pain as much, and wasn't strong enough to not get crushed. The Emperor was suffering badly.

Sarec yanked the harpoon out and spins down to ground level, the chains twisted around him like a pinwheel.

Roshisiz - I will enjoy watching you die, my pathetic son!

Tuolog blasted the Tralkik away with Gyronic and healed the Emperor. The hologram disappeared, and more HXTs arrived.

Hachi - B-Baptarion...err, c-can I ask a question? Baptarion - What? Hachi - W-Why does me l-leg f-feel wet? Hachi pointed down his leg, where there was a blooded wound. Baptarion - ''Uh...it's just a wound. Wait until the fight is over and Tuolog will heal it.''

A huge HXT picked up his giant thorned arm, and stabbed Zr'Ahgloth, while another knocked Arkarixus. Nu whacked one of the HXT's across the room and used its body to hurl other ones about the room. Arkarixus immediately got back up and attacked the HXT again. Sarec smirked and swung a chain around at some HXTs. Pressing a button the chains surged with electricity.

More HXTs continued to arrived, charging at them, and then firing acid. A HXT stabbed Sarec's left arm. Zr'Ahgloth, Fre'kloar, Hagto'Zhl and Jol'kiar all attacked the HXTs.

Fre'kloar - SIK FIGHTIN Yogtam - Agh, they just keep coming!

Sarec flinched and telekinetically threw the HXT aside. As the HXTs died, larger, more resilient and stronger HXTs appeared, causing more damage. Demon Tyraz slammed his fist at a HXT, cackling somewhat evilly. Arkarixus ripped one HXT apart vertically, while Tuolog blasted several more.

Hachi - ''I-I don't w-wanna be useless in this battle! Let me fight!'' Tuolog noticed Hachi and healed him from afar. Nu - ''You want to fight? Fine!''

Nu telekinetically grasps Hachi and flew him arund to 'fight'. Sarec tried not to focus on his wound and continued swinging the chains around ,tearing the HXTs apart although the teeth came close to a few of the group members.

The HXTs wouldn't let up. Their bladed arms pierced the armour and skin of the warriors as they fought. Their acid caused huge damage to armour and body. Their huge numbers and size made them a deadly threat. Even as more HXTs were murdered, their persistence and strength made them deadly. Even larger HXTs arrived, and then, snake-like ones appeared. A set of metal teeth swang inches from Baptarion's shoulder from Sarec, to which Baptarion yelled "watch it"!

Jol'kiar - JUS LIEK OLD TIMES HURHURHUR Fre'kloar - ''hur man im glad graktona ent heer. he wuld be all braggin about his "king swag"'' Jol'kiar - whers him anyway? Fre'kloar - i told him ta stay bak at da ship an maek me a pizza hurhur

Nu decapitated one of the HXTs with his tail, while Sarec swung his 'whips' that wrapped around several snake-like HXTs, the teeth dug into their bodies. With a flick of his wrist the teeth cut four of them in half.

Hagto'Zhl - WE SHULD HAV BROUGHT DRIZZY HE CULD SET DESE HXTS ON FIYA SO WE COULD EET DEM ROASTED LATA Nu - ''How do these things do with light? I'm talking about blinding-fire-light.'' Tralkik Commander - Hmm...potentially, the smaller, snakelike ones could be blinded. Hachi - Nu...d-don't stop hurling me!

Vekaron panted, getting tired, while Arkarixus kept fighting in perfect stamina. Hachi struggles as more HXTs approached. Sarec's whip flies inches past Nu and impales a HXT in the head, sarec then yanks the head off.

However they were far from winning. HXTs quadruple the size appeared. These couldn't be pierced by anyone's blade, and were far stronger. They grabbed the Loron, Yogtam and the Tralkik Commander, and pinned them to the ground, stabbing them. More HXTs of this size arrived, and combined, managed to pin them all down.

Zr'Ahgloth - FUK DIS IS GETTIN ANNOYIN Nu - You've got to be kidding me.

They managed to kill all the HXTs until five were left. Then, suddenly, a HXT pinning Zr'Ahgloth down was killed by an exploding bullet to the head.

Grak'tona - soz im late bruv Zr'Ahgloth - safe...whoeva ddid dat

The Enemy of My Enemy is Almost My Friend
Another HXT was killed by two blades by a cloaked figure. One more was killed by what appeared to be several punches. Another exploding gunshot and stab killed the other two. The snake-like HXTs were then killed by several knife-like blades, and other larger blades.

Fre'kloar - WHOS YOO

Grak'tona appeared, with Gol'thabex...and the BCN. Falrik, Volim, Skhanaroton, Torrent, Genrai Nal and Sollow were all present.

Fre'kloar - GRAK MAN WHERS MA PIZZA Grak'tona - ''I GOT HELP MAN AN I GOT GOL. AN FREKLOA I FINISHED YA PIZZA'' Fre'kloar - SAFE

Grak'tona tossed a pizza to Fre'kloar, which was burnt.

Fre'kloar - YOO BURNED MA PIZZA YA MUPPET Vekaron - ''Falrik and Volim! Elimate them!'' Sarec - WAIT! Falrik Zaarkhun - I just saved your ass...but if you want to fight me and lose your only chance of defeating GTFO, then so be it. Arkarixus - Who are you again?

The Tralkik Commander kept Arkarixus up to date with who Falrik Zaarkhun was. Sarec stood up.Skhanaroton growled.

Sarec - I at least owe you the respect of saving our lives. Falrik Zaarkhun - I think you for your gratitude, Sarec.'' Sarec - It is nothing, Falrik. As long as you stay your ways I am apathetic to you.''

Zaarkhun nodded, and turned to Arkarixus.

Falrik Zaarkhun - Chief Executive Officer of the Borealis Consortium Network, Warmaster. Arkarixus - ''Oh. You're the one they all whine so much about.'' Volim - Hey, who, or rather what the heck is that blue guy? Arkarixus - I'm a Kormacvar you insolent primitive! Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Don't you remember, Volim? The ones our spies learn about months ago.'' Volim - Oh...that one. Hachi - *squeaks* Hey I'm blue too...nobody remembers me... Baptarion - And what do you want here again?

Falrik ignored them, turning to Gol'thabex.

Falrk Zaarkhun - ''Right, Gol'thabex. You didn't fully meet the criteria of your contract. Not many people do this, but I'll pay 95% of the promised fees, regardless.'' Gol'thabex - dats...pretty generos mate cheers Skhanaroton - ''I hope I get the all clear to kill you all. I'll generously devour you one by one.''

Roshisiz' hologram reappeared. Nu, confused, zoned out.

Roshisiz - What?! Hagto'Zhl - TRAITA DUMBO Roshisiz - You have...the Borealis Consortium Network on your side?! Volim - Precisely. Hachi - O-Okay...

Hachi punched Nu's leg, who roared roared and hurled Hachi across the room with a flinch of his arm. Hachi smacked into a wall and was knocked out.

Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Well, do you remember that time when we joined forces to take down the Xi'Arazulha? Think of it like that.'' Sarec - Fair enough. Skhanaroton - A regrettable assistance. Roshisiz - ...I couldn't have predicted that...Zaarkuhn, how do you always manage to stay one step ahead of me? Falrik Zaarkhun - I wouldn't reveal my methods to one of Zargoth's lapdogs. Rohsisiz - ''You're pretty good at hiding yourself and keeping me guessing...but now. My son, step forward.'' Kralgon Emperor - ''Grr. I don't take orders from you.''

Roshsisiz growled. Skhanaroton made a distorted hissing laugh.

Roshisiz - You will take orders from me LIKE YOU DID AS THE FUCKING PUNY BABY YOU WERE!!! Sarec - Some parental figure you are! Volim - ''Family issues? Huh, we Wranploer have no such thing.'' Roshsisiz - ''What kind of son are you?? You're a weak, incompetent, insufficient, WASTE OF SKIN!!!'' Sarec - ''And yet look where he is. Want to know worth? How about getting to my position and power fro ma street urching!'' Skhanaroton - ''Sounds like my father. Until I ate him.'' Zr'Ahgloth - ''i ate ma dad too...i fink. or was it ma mom? cant rememba''

Tyraz regained his normal form and growled.

Tyraz - That's enough, Roshsisiz! Hagto'Zhl - AND YOR A TRAITA DUMBO Y U KIDNAP GOL'THABEX AN TRIES TA KILL US Roshisiz - ''I never did name you, son. But if I did, I'd name you "Douchebag". Kralgon Emperor - I'm a far more successful ruler than you'll ever be. Skhanaroton - ''General. Do we kill them now or later?'' Volim - ''Later. We still got some other obstacles to remove.''

Roshisiz growled, and then spoke.

Roshisiz - ''I want to tell you something, my son. I think you'll find it important. You ever wondered why I hated you from birth?'' Kralgon Emperor - Other than because you're a heartless bastard? Roshisiz - It's largely for one reason; you are not really MY son.

The Kralgon Emperor, and all of UNOL, stared silent. Sarec and Tyraz stared indifferently, as though he did not realise the significance of Roshisiz' statement.

Nu - ''Can we cut this family chat? Where's the shard?'' Roshisiz - ''When your mother and I had you, I was infertile. I couldn't reproduce. So I took the cells from my father to have the closest thing genetically to you. Genetically, you're just a brother who I did not create out of will. I only did to please my wife. I was mad at her later, and I killed her.  Kralgon Emperor - I'm not sure if I should take this as something bad or the best thing I've ever heard.'' Roshisiz - ''That's not all, son. You are disabled in many ways...'' Kralgon Emperor - ''Disabled? I'm in perfect health.'' Roshisiz - ''No...you have mental disabilities. You can't communicate properly, you can't understand social interaction, you can't read emotion, and you're weak by Kralgon standards. The only reason you can interact socially is because you don't need to read emotions, due to UNOS telling you them, and you finding out through other people via UNOS. Also, you have a short temper.''

Roshisiz launched more Tralkik and HXTs, growing angry at the memories.

Roshisiz - ''MY LEGACY RUINED BY YOU!!!! I WISH I COULD HAVE KILLED YOU...I GOT SO CLOSE...BUT ZAARKHUN SAVED YOU!!!!'' Kralgon Emperor - This "disabled" chld has grown to become a true emperor, while you just kiss the ground where Zargoth walks. Volim - Things for you to kill in the spare time, Skhanaroton.

Skhanaroton laughed hysterically as he teared the Tralkik and HXTs to pieces.

Sarec - You sound like the failure Roshisiz. Roshisiz - ''A failure who introduced a new era to the Kralgon? A failure who, by his royal decree, the first System and nanomachines were created? I think not! And Emperor...I'm doing nothing...I don't even exist...''

More HXTs and Tralkik appeared coming down, which the BCN and Nu fought happily. Skhanaroton accidentally hit Nu and knocked him unconscious.

Roshisiz - ''None of us exist! GTFO's "existance" is blank! How do you think I get all these armies, all these resources, and all these people from nowhere? How do you think I survived, when I was clearly killed? And what kind of a name is "Grand Troopers of Foreign Origins"? Did you actually buy that cheesy story? GTFO DOESN'T EXIST!''

Roshisiz' anger caused dozens more Tralkik and HXTs to appear out of nowhere.

Baptarion - His emotions control the spawning of these creatures...But if he doesn't exist, how can we interact with them? Sarec - I have my suspicions. Roshsiz - We are all one big time anomaly caused and used by Zargoth...we're all just here to carry out Zargoth's orders and make you cry!!!

Roshisiz' rage caused a few larger HXTs to appear.

Sarec - Excuse me... Roshisiz - ''You're right, Baptarion. My consciousness controls this non-existent time anomaly matter. And my emotions do have an influence on the HXTs who appear. That's why my consciousness was used...because of my short temper! WHICH YOU, MY PATHETIC SON, SHARE WITH ME!!!!'' Kralgon Emperor - ''Don't compare yourself to me. If anyone's pathetic here, it's you.''

Nu woke up with a cracked helmet, just asRoshisiz' rage smashed the console, turned off the hologram and caused a huge force of HXTs and larger, tank-like Tralkik to appear.

Fre'kloar - BRING IT OOOOOON Genrai Nal - Ah, the dance of battle! Sollow - Hahaha...these may not be mortals...but their blood tastes like one... Volim - ''I've not fought anyone in a while! Come and see what the General's punches feel like!'' Skhanaroton - It has been a while since I've fought something mortal.

Sollow licked his blade, and the group fought the HXTs, with the BCN leading. Sarec, however, stayed and growled.

Sarec - ''And what did I tell you all before we arrived on this station? I hpoed this was not a trap.'' Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Trap? You distrust me that much?'' Sarec - ''You provided us with all the information we needed, you told us where to go. You were his pawn!'' Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Exactly, Sarec. Don't think I don't know what he's up to. Don't think I don't have a plan to completely tear him down...''

Sarec he lifted and twisted the chain.

Sarec - You had better, Heeyorian!

The fighting went on longer, until the HXTs ran out.

Yogtam - Whew...well, I have to admit, as much as I hate the BCN, they are some damned good fighters. Volim - I'm the most powerful Wranploer in this galaxy and don't you forget that. Tyraz - Genrai, your skills do not fail to impress me. Genrai Nal - Appreciated, Tyraz.

Genrai showed a sort of warrior's ritual respect to Tyraz, and then to Volim, who was confused for a second.

Genrai Nal - Volim...you have proven to me that you are still the same Wranploer General you were millennia ago. Volim - ''Huh. Thanks.'' Arkarixus - ''Hmpf. None of you fight as true warriors. The orange creature is clumsy and the green creature is a complete savage.''

Sollow chuckled, and threw a blade straight past Arkarixus, missing him by a nanometer. Arkarixus grabbed the blade with his back limbs and threw it at Sollow's forehead, missing also by a nanometer. Sollow grabbed it with his hand, and stabbed it threw him, then pulled it out on the other end; healing completely.

Always A Step Ahead of You
Sarec - This anomoly was the shard's doing so we had better find it. Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Not to worry. I know where it is. It's on Roshisiz' flagship.'' Sarec - ''...Wouldn't a simultanious strike have been easier? He used Gol'thabex to lure us all here.'' Arkarixus - Tell us the location of the flagship so we may attack. Falrik Zaarkhun - ''No, Sarec. He did see this attack coming. He knows I'm capable of pulling off a stealth attack suprisingly like this. I gave him half of what he wanted...purposefully. Come, I'll take you to the station's command center.''

Falrik Zaarkhun pointed at a path, which was delcared a danger zone, and was full of obvious traps of various kinds; poisonous blades, lasers, and more. Sarec cricked his neck.

Sarec - Looks like fun. Falrik Zaarkhun - Stand aside.

Sarec looked disappointed, as Falrik Zaarkhun walked straight through them, each trap missing him completely, going around him.

Arkarixus - ''Huh. We had more advanced shielding than that.'' Falrik Zaarkhun - I sincerely doubt that. Arkarixus - ''Because you're primitive and doesn't know what real tech looks like. You use tech from 5D gods. We were allies of 5D gods.''

Falrik Zaarkhun pulled a lever on the other end, and all traps vanished.

Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Come. In here.''

What was shown was, in fact, a giant tree made of organic mass.

Jol'kiar - ''wats dis? moar hxts?'' Falrik Zaarkhun - ''No. Roshisiz thought he was being clever by hiding the command center here. He wasn't.''

Everone followed inside. True to Zaarkhun's word, the interior was a large, chrome command center with several dead Kralgon inside, all killed by Sollow.

Sollow - Hahaha...that was fun...

Sollow licked his blade, while Skhanaroton growled at Sollow.

Arkarixus - Does that creature have a fetish for his weapon? Torrent - I ask myself that everyday!

Falrik Zaarkhun looked at several different consoles. They were written in Kralgon language that not even the Kralgon Emperor or the Tralkik Commander could interpret. They were impossible to understand, but Falrik was reading it as if it were his native language.

Fre'kloar - roshisiz dum makin everyfin in gibberish languaj Falrik Zaarkhun - ''If you remember, GTFO doesn't exist. So his spaceship only appears when he wants it to appear.'' Jol'kiar - IF I CULD FINK OF A SPAICSSHIP IT WULD B MADE OF PIZZA Hachi - If I could think of a spaceship, it'd have a bar and stri-- yeah, better stop there. Sarec - Yes you should. Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Onboard his spaceship. Roshsiz is using it control GTFO more efficiently than currently. They're a time anomaly, and so, they need more effective ways of creating one. I've narrowed it down to all these options. There are possibilites of what Roshisiz is planning to do with that power, but Roshisiz is very predictable.'' Vekaron - And what are these? Falrik Zaarkhun - ''The obvious one is for him to simply send his army to destroy and take over UNO, by appearing straight inside Grenzaar. But Roshisiz knows what he's up against, and so is going to take a different approach. He'll lure UNO in by attacking their closest ally, the Zoles Imperium's, main homeworld. He's been attacking their territory but in unpredictable frequency. As we've ignored him, he wants to change that.'' Vekaron - He's attacking Zoleia?! Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Other possibilities are him giving that to Zargoth, but from what I know of Zargoth, that won't happen. He could, alternatively, go after me in revenge, but I think luring UNO in is more predictable for him, as he has a greater grudge against his son than he does against me.''

Volim grunted.

Volim - ''Huh. Never though I would be up to defending the Zoles' homeworld.'' Yogtam - I've got a feeling you have a plan, Zaarkhun.

Falrik Zarkhun nodded.

Falrik Zaarkhun - You're correct. Fre'kloar - wat dat Falrik Zaarkhun - ''I've narrowed it down. Roshisiz will try and be clever, by first attacking me with a decoy, and then attacking the Zoles. But due to his shard, he has unlimited numbers and power. He'll be unstoppable until we find his flagship. And he'll hide his flagship in plain sight, as one of the smaller ships. He'll keep us searching for too long...''

Falrik turned to Volim.

Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Volim, act like the BCN's falling for it. Act like they;re enraged, adn make them unleash their full strength in retaliation.'' Volim - Alright.

Falrik Zaarkhun turned to Order.

Falrik Zaarkhun - ''As for you, you'll trick him slightly. When he launches several decoy attacks, don't send large fleets. Instead, send PMCs. My spies have learned you have the TMI on your side. If that's true, send them to attack the largest decoy fleet, andother PMCs - Thugz included - against the rest.'' Arkarixus - Keep our big fleets for the flagship. Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Yes. But he'll make his final big fleet his last one. He'll be confused. He'll be angry. More ships than you can possibly deal with will arrive. One of these smaller ships will be his flagship. One of these larger ships will be a decoy. Send the UNO Omega Commander - without UNO in it - to go for this decoy.'' Sarec - If his flagship has the shard on board it should not be hard for me to detect. Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Roshisiz is no fool. He'll trick many scanners; many of your scans will detect that the ship is the flagship, and once you rush to this scan, the ship will disappear, and the flagship will be in another area completely, and it might take us just that bit longer. While Roshisiz thinks the Ioketa are out of play, use them to combat time anomalies, and his flagship will be revealed without him knowing.'' Genrai Nal - ''Falrik, what of our shards, and theirs? They could prove an effective method of revealing Roshisiz.'' Falrik Zaarkhun - ''I have a feeling that Roshisiz would expect them to be used straight away. Save them for last.'' Vekaron - He'll pay for even thinking about attacking Zoleia.

Falrik Zaarkhun turned back to consoles, still talking.

Falrik Zaarkhun - ''The hint is to toy with his emotions. Make him satisifed, thinking he's outsmarting us at points. But then make him angry at others. If you follow the plan, we should be doing that correctly. Once inside the flagship, Genrai and the Jittoram will lead the assault on Roshisiz. You will accompany.'' Vekaron - So be it. Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Well. We'll wait for Roshisiz to attack. He'll want to gain a pre-emptive strike. I need everyone to let their guard down completely. Make Roshisiz think you're unsuspecting.'' Hachi - Hey, my guard's always down!

I Love It When I'm Right
A conference meeting was set up betwen the Borealis Order-aligned natives, the Consortium Network, the Kicath, the Brood of War, Indoctrinate Collective and the United Lanat Empire. Zaarkhun sat back on his chair, looking smug.

Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Well, would you look at that? I love it when I'm right.'' Tul - I still don't like you. Vekaron - ''None of us do. We're working together for the safety of Zoleia and nothing else.''

Falrik Zaarkhun shrugged, then displayed images of GTFO attacking the Borealis Consortium Network.

Nu - That doesn't look good. Xerkea - I really wouldn't mind if Volim didn't make it. Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Oh look, our little Roshisiz is attacking the Borealis Consortium Network aggressively. He's so clever, he thought I wouldn't see this decoy coming...''

Falrik turned to Volim.

Falrik Zaarkhun - Is the fleet prepared to attack? Volim - Yes. Nu - What significance do the BCN have anyway? Vekaron - Don't you remember when the plan was explained? Nu - Well, I just want to get rid of anything that breathes wrong. Hachi - ''Hey, that's not fair! I need an inhaler sometimes...'' Tul - ... Volim - ''I'll be distracting them while you guys kill the red dude leader. I though you Kicath were intelligent.'' Nu - ''We are. Only in the lines of fighting.'' Falrik Zaarkhun - ''All right. Give the order right now. And I predict Roshisiz will arrive send a message to us in 3...2...'' Tralkik Commander - Receiving a transmission now.

The Tralkik Commander put Roshisiz on the line.

Roshisiz - ''Hah! I bet you weren't prepared for those numbers at all!'' Nu - Ah shut it you walking kidney bean. Volim - ''You think your numbers scare me? I'm the one with the numbers here!'' Tul - Your numbers are cute. Roshisiz - ''With unlimited numbers of an army that doesn't exist? I explained already...we're all nonexistant time anomalies...'' Volim - Doesn't make you any less insignificant! Hachi - ''Haha, you don't exist! Go kill yourself!'' Roshisiz - Cool.

Roshisiz stabbed himself, and a minute later, nothing happened.

Hachi - God you're such an emo... Falrik Zaarkhun - ''You want to take me on, Roshisiz? Fine then, try me. I dare you.'' Roshisiz - You don't want to dare me, Zaarkhun...this time, I'm a step ahead of you... Volim - ''Don't waste your breath, Zaarkhun. This fool is weak, look at these ships, they are pathetic!'' Nu - You are way too angry to be even remotely intimidating...whatever you are.

Roshisiz was angry, and growled. More ships popped up out of nowhere.

Roshisiz - You don't want to make me angry! Tul - Silly childhood games. Volim - ''And you don't want to make ME angry, stranger! I really wonder how time anomaly tech fits on my ships when I salvage your remains!'' Tyraz - ''Hmph, I'm the one with the temper! This dude has nothing on me...'' Nu - Can't we just shoot the living shit out of him? Roshisiz - ''Yes! COME HERE AND SHOOT ME!!!!''

Roshisiz quit the chat.

Falrik Zaarkuhn - ''Hah! This is entertaining! That should keep the big numbers distracted.'' Tralkik Commander - I've taken the opportunity to call the PMCs to defend the planets where Roshisiz might attack. Genrai Nal - Volim, shall Torrent and I lead the attack against Roshisiz' ships? Volim - You do that.

At that moment, Gol'thabex arrived on chat.

Gol'thabex - yo dawg i herd yoo wanted a pmc? Zr'Ahgloth - speekin of which whers frekloar

Fre'kloar then popped up on chat late.

Hachi - ''Fre'kloar! Yay!'' Fre'kloar - wat man i was havin pizza Arkarixus - We must depart now, we are wasting time. Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Just wait. Any moment now, our red friend should launch several attacks on the Zoles...'' Nu - I don't like the way you predict things.

Distress calls appeared on Vekaron's screens. Multiple attacks by millions of ships attacked various worlds. Falrik Zaarkhun looked smug.

Vekaron - Ugh. Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Remember Vekaron; don't fall for it. He'll get frustrated and your homeworld will be targeted next.'' Vekaron - Okay...

Better Amp Your Game Up
A huge force of different PMCs could easily be mistaken for several allied fleets. The Thugz Fer Dosh, Black Star Company, Soltako Armed Military, and the Tokzhalan Military Industries combined were an incredibly powerful force to be reckoned with. And the huge sum of cash they would receive at the end was enough for them as encouragement.

GTFO outnumbered them and could spawn from anywhere, being a time anomaly. But the PMCs weren't to be underestimated. They were absolutely armed to the teeth with the latest in cutting edge weapons technology. But it made Roshisiz wonder. Why weren't the Zoles responding to him? Why send some PMCs to defend their worlds? Were these planets less important than he predicted? Did they not see him as a threat?

Roshisiz only knew one thing. He was going to amp his game up and destroy them all. They would pay attention to him for sure if he attacked the homeworld. He would kill his son, the Zoles, and take the shards.

Defence of Zoleia
Tralkik Commander - ''I am receiving reports. It looks like the Zoles' homeworld is now under attack. And there are a lot of ships.'' Falrik Zaarkhun - ''All right. Don't act like you were prepared for this attack, even though you were.'' Hachi - ''Huh? What attack?'' Tyraz - That's amazing acting, mammal. Tul - You're as good at acting as you are being professional. Hachi - Aww thank you Tul!

Tul looked at Hachi, severely unimpressed. Nu made a cybernetic sounding laugh.

Falrik Zaarkhun - ''We'll need to send ships he's not expecting to scout out for his flagship. The Indoctrinate Collective would work well there.'' Hachi - ''I can do that, Falrik. And so can Baptarion.'' Nu - Vekaron I'm going in your ship again. Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Tul, you'll be useful here. Arrive just as Roshisiz thinks he has his hand full. In full force. Just make him more irritated.'' Tul - With pleasure.

With huge forces aiding them, all the fleets converged around Zoleia.

The battle commenced. The Zoles' orbital defences, defence fleet, and the forces, with the TMI's much needed help, had all taken up position and got Roshisiz surprised. The angered Roshisiz only spawned larger fleets, until he had outnumbered them and outnumbered his own limit. Then, the ULE arrived, and took out several more GTFO ships. Roshisiz was enraged. He had to obliterate them all. They were becoming increasingly difficult...

Falrik Zaarkhun - ''All right, Hachi. Search all the fairly small ships to see if one is his.'' Hachi - I gotcha, Falrik! Nu - Next time I should get my own ship. Arkarixus - Yes, you should.

Hachi proceeded to search through small ships and then squeaked-

Hachi - I found it, I found it! Nu - He better have found it...

There was a short wait, then Nu smashed his panel.

Nu - FUCKING HELL, TELL ME IF YOU'VE FOUND IT ALREADY. Hachi - ''Eeep! There! There it is!''

Several TMI drones want to block the ship, searching it...and found it was just ordinary.

Falrik Zaarkhun - Grr... Xerkea - You're wasting our time, kid! Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Worse than that. Now Roshisiz will suspect we're up to something. We've lost the element of surprise...'' Tul - Did you really think he would find it? Hachi - Oops... Falrik Zaarkhun - Baptarion, if you don't find another ship quickly, I'll need to tell you my plan B... Arkarixus - Who let this...infant...in here anyway? Hachi - My teacher said...

Nu turned his helmet off and started roaring, hurling equipment around in Vekaron's ship. Arkarixus glared at Nu while Vekaron sighed. Baptarion keeps searching.

Nu - WHEN I GET MY HANDS ON YOU HUMAN I'M GOING TO RIP YOU TO SHREDS. Sollow - All you mortals with your silly behaviour...Hachiman...you should try death...it is far more entertaining and fulfilling...trust me, I know this from experience... Baptarion - Hmm...I think this may be the one.

Baptarion showed a small ship. The TMI drones inspected it, and then made the confirmation.

Falrik Zaarkuhn - ''Yes! Now, Tuolog!''

Tuolog put up a time bubble around it, and Zaarkhun chuckled.

Falrik Zaarkhun - ''I love it when a plan comes together. Now, everyone, get inside and attack him.'' Kralgon Emperor - With pleasure...

My Father's Death
The group, minus the BCN, got inside small tight corridor. The walls were chrome, the ship's power failing slightly. Everyone couldn't wait to kill Roshisiz.

Zr'Ahgloth - I WANNA SMASH ROSHISIZ PROPA BADLY Kralgon Emperor - Roshisiz is my kill, don't you forget that. Hachi - W-What about me? Xerkea - You try not getting in our way. Fre'kloar - oi man imma get reveng on roshisiz man Hagto'Zhl - i tried ta tell ma dad on him but he neva replies to ma messages

They continued to proceed through corridors and got to Roshisiz' lair. It was suprisingly empty, a dark, purple room with a single console that he sat by.

Tul - Well let's put this foe down. Roshisiz - You...how the fuck did you find me...? Tul - You don't need to know that. Roshisiz - ''...I DON'T CARE!! YOU WILL DIE!!!!!''

A giant Tralkik robot dropped in front of them which Roshisiz drove.

Tralkik Commander - ''Falrik warned me about this model. He recommended that Arkarixus and Nu take it down.'' Tul - This galaxy sure likes robotic things. Arkarixus - Another primitive robot which will fall by my skills.

The two legged, giant machine fired massive cannons at Nu and Arkarixus fast, and then moved its giant arms around. Roshisiz laughed evilly.

Nu - ''Hmph. Tuolog, any chances for an essence barrier?''

Tuolog provided them both with an Essence barrier, although Arkarixus' own shields were good enough.

Nu - Not for resistance to fire, I have a plan.

Arkarixus charged at one of Tralkik's legs, trying to break it, while Nu started charging energy within his armour. The robot's leg was damaged, leaving Nu open to attack. Nu ran full force into the lower part of the torso with the essence barrier. The robot's legs had come off. Arkarixus and Nu continued hammering at it. Roshisiz growled, adn a new HXT, which he was attached to, arrived.

Tralkik Commander - Hmm...if we trust these documents, this one's on Tyraz and Zr'Ahgloth...or Hagto'Zhl. Hagto'Zhl - IM NOT FIGHTIN WIV TYRAZ Tyraz - ''Hmph! You're not exactly a prize either!''

A giant HXT, similar to those seen before, roared and attacked them

Hagto'Zhl- ngh fine

Tyraz turned into his Demon form and struck it down with his Firesword, with it falling. Hagto'Zhl attacked the HXT and ripped it apart.

Hagto'Zhl - MUST I DO EVERYFIN AROUND HEER

Roshisiz ran off the top of the dead HXT.

Roshisiz - FUCK YOU!!! Nu - I should just crush your skull now. Kralgon Emperor - Get him out of that machine so I can kill him myself.

Nu rippedf through the machine and pulls Roshisiz out. This was boring and quick to them, clearly showing how unprepared Roshisiz was. Roshisiz fell out, nearly defeated.

Roshisiz - You're going to strike me down...right?

The Kralgon Emperor aimed his weapon.

Kralgon Emperor - You can be damn sure of that.

Roshisiz sighed.

Roshisiz - Hurry up with it. ??? - Certainly.

Falrik Zaarkhun appeared, previously cloaked, and shot Roshisiz, blowing his head off. He then looked at them.

Kralgon Emperor - Damnit Zaarkhun! Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Good work. The shard should be around here.'' ??? - Indeed...it was a good work.

The rest of the BCN's leaders arrived, but then, on one of the ship's windows, Kolossus was seen.

Falrik Zaarkhun - Agh, get away! Kolossus - ''Heheheh... Hello Zaarkhun.'' Genrai Nal - ''Ahh, Kolossus. I know a lot about you. But mostly stories.'' Falrik Zaarkhun - ''You have no business here. Get out!'' Kolossus - ''I see you have dealt with Roshisiz. A good riddance, really. I never liked him, and the master's use of him has ended.'' Hagto'Zhl - eh wat OH SUP DAD Kolossus - ''Yes, hello, Hagto. Now, one thing. While I'm satisfied with Roshisiz gone, don't forget, his shard was technically mine. And I don't like being stolen from.''

Tuolog stepped in front.

Tuolog - You not steal shard. Kolossus - ''Oh, I don't need to. Can't you hear it?''

Kolossus placed his ear next to his hands.

Tuolog - What are you hearing...? Kolossus - ''It's the sound of nightmares! I've not listening to this melody since...Shu'ulathoi's completion!...''

Kolossus disappeared.

Tul - That isn't a good thing is it? Falrik Zaarkhun - Does Kolossus always do this?

Falrik turned to the other BCN members, and then looked back at Order.

Vekaron - Isn't Shu'ulathoi the god of the Devourer's Chosen? Nu - God of the Chosen, works for the Xhodocto, blah blah blah. Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Yes. And now, well, the BCN have procured the shard.'' Xerkea - ''What?! The shard is ours!'' Falrik Zaarkhun - Thank you for helping us acquire it.''

Just as they thought Zaarkhun would turn away, Sollow arrived, showing them the shard.

Sollow - Take it...before we change our mind... Zr'Ahgloth - GIMME DAT U

Zr'Ahgloth grabbed the shard. Sollow let go, laughing.

Baptarion - Prick. Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Well, collectively, we now have 4 shards between us. Where are the others?'' Xerkea - Hmpf...the Grox and Geltastra have the rest.'' Hachi - ''Huh? G-Geltastra?'' Nu - ''So we can now take the fight to the Legion? Hahaha.'' Tul - Oh joy. Hachi - I'm guessing this means we're finally facing the Chosen head on then, huh?

=Crimson Fires of Hell=

Fire versus Cold
A few weeks had passed since GTFO's destruction, and the forces of Order were now preparing to battle their next opponents, the. Since Zargoth's time anomalies arrived, the Chosen had remained suspiciously quiet to the galaxy, with attacks from them no longer being reported since. This calm before the storm was about to end, however, when the Chosen started to act once more.

On several Cold Relays around the Arm of Knowledge, Caretakers worked as usual. However, they soon found their devices invaded by demons, who attacked and murdered them at lightning speed. The defenses of the Cold Relays were powerful, but were eventually overwhelmed, giving the demons control over the Relays. Portals opened into these Relays, and several Dracogonarious, Duletha and Empahreen scientists arrived to study and take over the devices for themselves.

All of these Relays had one thing in common: they all linked to the Corrupted Sector, home sector of the Chosen. It was like if they were trying to stop people from getting there....from interrupting them...

Questionable Decisions
Back into the Indoctrinate Collective, Hachiman rested after a day of working in Baptarion's lab. He was growing increasingly frustrated he was being treated by people such as Arkarixus, Nu, Xerkea and Tul. It seemed like they were watching every step and criticized every action. Even Baptarion who had recently warmed up on him started to act strange again. He was losing hope for the galaxy.

As he fell asleep, he started to have a strange dream. He was in the middle of a desolate, scorched land. He looked up to see and two Radeon cultists looking down on him.

Geltastra - ''This is this galaxy's future. Your future.''

Hachi looked around, seeing nothing but rubble. He tried to reach his sword, but it wasn't there.

Geltastra - ''If you stay with them, this is how you'll end. But, if you join us, this will change.''

Geltastra leaned forward, her eyes shining.

Geltastra - Join us.'

Hachi waked up, sweating. Something was strange. The Dark Apostle's words were...making some sense.

The Arrival
Ratharens, the capital of Il'larion was always a bustling place, but today, it was something abnormal. Purple skies of the ancient planet were literally torn apart by hundreds of spaceships arriving, and the noise of engines was heard everywhere. These were ships of scientists, journalists, members of the Grand Council - everyone who wanted to see the Great Journey. Among these ships was a used, rusted transport vessel belonging to a famous Tertanai captain and archaeologist: Lemmo Meronis.

Crowds were already gathering around the Commonwealth Plaza - a new addition to the city's architecture. It would probably be just a common place in the city if not for the massive portal in its center. There, during Andromeda War, massive battle happened. There, the portal was activated for the first time: AGC called their allies from beyond the galaxy for help, and the Crystalline invaders were destroyed. Following the war, NTA scientists were working to understand the portal. Now, they wanted it to work the other way around.

S'nar - ''Brothers and sisters, free citizen of the Alliance, we mark this day as a dawn of a new age. For too long we have been confined to our home, Andromeda. All great starfarers - Draconis, Radeons, Vartekians - have long since trascended these chains. Now, it is time for us. We know that beyond this portal awaits a brand new world. We knew about it only from rumours, but today, the first citizen of the Alliance shall leave our galaxy. Captain Lemmo Meronis has agreed to be this bold explorer, going where no Tertamian has gone before. I only hope that the Great Light will protect him in this new galaxy, or how do others in the AGC call it... Borealis.''

A Tertanai technician activated the portal. The crowds shouted in awe as the flash of light emerged from it, turning into a swirling circle. With a loud swoosh, Meronis's ship flew above the citizen's heads, vanishing in a blink of an eye.

S'nar - ''Stay alive, captain. Stay alive.''

World of darkness
Lemmo watched the new patterns of stars from his captain's bridge. It was beautiful. Being a captain, he knew how to enjoy the universe's wonders, but this was a brand new world, and he knew nothing about it. But there was more than that in this new world. Lemmo was not only pleased by the beauty of the new galaxy but also quite confused and - slightly - afraid. There was no way to navigate there...

Lemmo Meronis - Ensign N'ras, status reporting! N'ras - ''All is clear, captain! I'm currently scanning the local planets. Seems that they're all pretty cold. That's strange, don't you agree?''

Lemmo sighed in relief. He might be in a different galaxy, but at least his crew - his friends - were with him. Their voice was like music to his ears. N'ras's skills with computers as well as his combat skills often saved Lemmo's life, and he did respect the Imperix specialist greatly.

Lemmo - ''Excellent. Ensign Marseli, can you provide more elaboration? What with these planets? Are they habitable?'' Marseli - ''I can't say for sure, captain. Around 15% of the planets in this region have habitable atmospheres and biospheres, and there is a high spike in energy activity on one of them; around 20124% stronger than on other planets. Strangely, this planet does not seem to have any presence of life. Either there is a 'very large colony of aliens here, or... perhaps...'' Lemmo - An ancient artifact? Marseli - Exactly. N'ras - ''I think we should go and investigate this planet, captain! Who knows, perhaps the Old Tertamians have visited this galaxy too, before us.'' Lemmo - ''So be it. Set course for this planet then!''

Marseli - ''That's where we recieved the energy spike. I will triangulate coordinates now.''

Lemmo's ship made a landing on the planet and his crewmates disembarked. The world was... cold, and that's about it. The planet was like a huge frozen wasteland, the monotonous plains of ice and snow only jugged sometimes by huge crystalline formations. Marseli was scanning the area as a loud shriek of his PDA got his attention.

Marseli - ''Captain, I request attention. It seems that the source of energy is somewhere here, not very deep in the ground. Our portable laser equipment would be enough to get it.''

Lemmo simply nodded to Marseli and told his crewmates to dig. The bright flashes of mining lasers illuminated the dark landscape. Little did they knew, however, that other eyes were observing Lemmo's crew now. Sinister ones...

??? - ''Great Disciple, is that necessary? We should just come and crush these heretics, right now!'' ??? - ''Do not question me, scum. The Devourer does not waste resources.''

N'ras - Captain, it seems we have found it!

Lemmo looked into his small digsite. The crewmates have been working for hours and it seemed that the energy source was found. It was... a small disk? N'ras grabbed it and watched the disk closely with his mechanical eyes.

N'ras - ''Sir, this must be an error or something! It's just a piece of junk!'' Lemmo - Wait, let me watch!

N'ras gave the disk to Lemmo, who looked at it and was astounded.

Lemmo - ''This is no junk... This is an ancient relic, and Tertamians did not construct it - someone else did! But this someone certainly knew Tertamian language. Look at the scriptures. A humble gift from the Kormacvar artisans to the Tertamian governor-general- then comes these strange scriptures. Who are these... Kormacvar?'' ??? - I think we share the same interests, captain.

A group of Radeons and Zazane appeared to Lemmo, dressed in black clothing. Seemingly benevolent, they smiled to the crew, and yet Lemmo felt something wrong with them, as if they were demons...

Lemmo - ''Hey... You're with the Commonwealth, right?'' ??? - ''My name is Nemeron Vanthai, a humble disciple of the Chosen Ones. We seek knowledge of the Cold Ones as much as you do. Go with us on our sacred world, and together, we shall help you to decipher the disk and unlock its potential.'' Lemmo - I guess we could- N'ras - ''Wait, Chosen? Radeons and Zazane? I have heard rumours and I've heard these Chosen are pretty bad guys...''

Nemeron's smile turned into a grimace in a split second. Realising that his cover was blown, he immediately shouted and commanded his warriors to attack. Howling primal warcries, the Chosen drew their weapons.

Lemmo - RUN AWAY!

Lemmo's crewmates attempted to escape the digsite, climbing the cliffs and stairs: the Chosen followed. The Tertanai captain heard the sound of energy rounds storming the air, and screams of his comrades. His heart sank. The path to the starship was covered with blood - not only of his own crewmates, but the cultists too. They seemed to kill themselves in an ecstasy of pain and death... for what reason?

Nemeron - ''Arise, the demons of Hell! Feed on our unholy blood and bring about punishment on these infidels!''

Lemmo saw the very ground around him cracking as disfigured, demonic hands appeared out of it. The demons crawled out of earth. The captain saw one of the monsters grabbing Marseli and tearing him apart. Ultimately, Lemmo realised that out of all his crewmates, he alone survived the encounter. As he boarded his starship, he took a final look at the planet, at his former crewmates. Starting the ship's emergency routines, he left the planet alone...

Cultist - ''Great Disciple, what of these heretics? Those who survived, of course!''

Cultists pointed at the wounded and dying NTA crewmen, who shrieked in agony. Nemeron smiled.

Nemeron - ''Bring them to the Dark Apostle. She will surely love new converts, especially from these new species...''

Ripped Apart
Unlike other conferences between the forces of Order, this one had been called by. He appeared, nervous and eager, as if he had found something very important.

Baptarion - ''Greetings, everyone. I'm glad you all could come.'' Yogtam - ''Greetings. What would you like to put forward?'' Hachi - *giggles under his breath* Came... Sarec - I have made some progress with looking for the shards. Baptarion - ''Seems like the Kicath couldn't come. Not that it surprises me, this talk would probably bore them.'' Tyraz - Well frankly I enjoy a little peace and quiet without Kicath. Baptarion - ''Everyone, I have important news. Important, and urgent.''

Baptarion walked side to side nervously.

Sarec - Go on. Hachi - ''Huh? How urgent?'' Baptarion - ''Very urgent. Take a look at this map.''

Baptarion showed everyone an holographic map of the Borealis Galaxy, pointing at a small section of the Arm of Knowledge.

Hachi - ''So? What's so important about that?'' Baptarion - ''Unusual activity is going on in this region. Stars are aging faster than they should.'' Vekaron - ''Yeah, we've picked it up too. Weird..'' Hachi - Reminds me of an old science fiction novel. Sarec - I've seen something like this within Segmentum Umbra of Andromeda. Baptarion - ''Only this week, 6 perfectly fine stars went supernova. One of them didn't even have the mass necessary to do that.''

Everyone looked surprised at the claims, but looking at the map, they could see it was true.

Tyraz - Shyrak, that's pretty scary considering. Tralkik Commander - ''No. This is not scientifically possible. There must be something supernatural going on.'' Sarec - The shards... Baptarion - ''I've scanned the area in search for answers and I've noticed my reading are coming back strange. It's like if spacetime continum is being, let's say, "ripped apart".'' Vekaron - ''Well let's consider who would do this. The only ones capable are the Junction, the Grox, the Chosen, and quite possibly the Borealis Consortium Network. Any one of them could have done it.'' Xerkea - You forgot Zargoth... Tuolog - ''Hmm. Junction have no reason to attack. And there no evidence of Grox. No one knows what Zaarkhun could be up to, but he wouldn't make an attack like that. Somehow it not like him. That narrows it down to Zargoth and Chosen...'' Baptarion - I'm confident the Chosen are the culprits, because I've also detected large Chosen fleets exiting this region.

Hachi gulped.

Hachi - ''C-Chosen? We can take em!'' Sarec - The region these events are occuring, Would it be the Corrupted Sector by any chance? Baptarion - ''It is the "Corrupted Sector", like you all name it. There's also something strange with the Cold Relays around this sector. They are openly attacking anything that approaches them.'' Tyraz - ''I would say it's Chosen activity. Damned demons have their ways.'' Xerkea - ''Then the Chosen most be behind this! I'll destroy every one of them!'' Hachi - Not before I do, miss Xerkea! Baptarion - ''I don't know what the Chosen are doing there, but they are ripping the fabrics of the universe apart with it. We must stop them at all costs.''

At this moment, both Arsac and Fre'kloar arrived on the chat.

Arsac - We all share the same desire. Baptarion - ''Greetings, Arsac. I'll let you updated on what we already discussed.'' Tyraz - *smiles a little* Mistress Arsac, what a pleasure. Arsac - No need Baptarion, Sarec has kept me informed. Fre'kloar - oi sup guys man DIS IS FRIKIN WEIRD IM GETTIN NITEMARES OF REKOLAR LAFFING AT ME MAN WAT DA HELL I WANT MA MOMMY!!!!!

Baptarion pondered for a second.

Baptarion - ''Nightmares?...Now that you mention it, my colonists have been reporting nightmares as well. Constant, unstoppable nightmares.'' Hachi - I've been havin n-nightmares too! Fre'kloar - trust man dis is fukin scary...i cant sleep at nite without ma teddy bear anymoar... Arsac - Strange... Baptarion - ''These are not natural nightmares. They are filled with demons of the Corruptus. By what we know, when they appear in your dreams it's because they are leeching energy out of them. By what the Royal Marechal told me, Plazith Rim was attacked by a wave of nightmares like this that lasted 4 years when Shu'ulathoi attacked it.'' Tuolog - ''Ah. That seem possible.'' Arsac - While the rest of you have been hunting for these Gyrronic shards, the Grand Inquisition has been keepin an eye on that sector. Vekaron - ''We're gonna need the Inquisition's help. A lot.'' Arsac - The Chosen deflected the last crusade, I will make sure they do not repeat the past! Baptarion - I think the "Corruptor" is the cause of this spacetime rupture.

Arsac flinched at the mention of the "Corruptor", remembering her encounter with it a year prior.

Tyraz - Arsac, is everything alright? Arsac - The name "Corruptor" is all to familiar to me.

At that moment, another screen opened. Falrik Zaarkhun arrived, smoking, although the rest of the BCN weren't in as usual. He blew smoke, then lit another.

Baptarion - ''Ugh. I did not invite you, Zaarkhun.'' Falrik Zaarkhun - Awfully sorry I'm late...I was out making purchases...A recent habit of mine, this. Baptarion - ''I said you are not invited. How do you expect to be trusted if everything you do is being intrusive? Arsac - The galaxy is being torn apart and you were more concerned over your business! Hachi - Hey, c-could I try a smoke one day? Baptarion - ''What? No! That thing is toxic!'' Yogtam - No, Hachi...just fucking no. Hachi - Oh...okay... Falrik Zaarkhun - 'Because I just got you a shard?''

Falrik shrugged.

Falrik Zaarkhun - Continue the discussion. Baptarion - ''Don't try to act smart on me. Unless you have something constructive to add, leave.'' Falrik Zaarkhun - ''I do have something to add. Why else would I show up?'' Baptarion - Well, I'm waiting. Falrik Zaarkhun - ''I have news, some of which you won't care for, others you would care for. For a start, the latest market trend, led by myself, has been research into Essence weaponry. What does this mean for you? It means that the more PMCs who use Essence weapons, the easier your job fighting the Chosen will be.'' Baptarion - ''If you're gonna understimate the Chosen, you can have the honour of being the first to die. Hachi - ''I can take Chosen easy! Baptarion knows that!'' Arsac - Falrik, while you were busy with your research projects and treasure hunting trips, the Inquisition has been combating the Chosen wheever they appear. Baptarion - Shush you. Hachi - Oh...alright then...

Hahci's ears dropped, and he looked saddened.

Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Yes, Arsac. I'd like to applaud you and the Inqusition, too. We've been studying your tactics and the technology, and mayn PMCs are catching on.''

Falrik blew smoke, and then lit another, while going on to the next subject.

Arsac - ''You do know that posession of inquisition technology is a capital punishment, correct? And that includes reverse-engineered equipment.'' Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Of course I do. But do any of those laws apply here? No.'' Arsac - ''I can show you proof that Inquisition mandate is still being enforced of you like. But liek you said, let us move on.'' Falrik Zaarkhun - ''The BCN have yet to be attacked by the Devourer's Chosen. We're pretty selfish people in the Cnsortium Network, and many are blind as to the potential threat the Chosen will become. Until we get attacked, Volim won't budge. However, I'm different. I will place my full support behind your fights against the Chosen, and make sure to keep you informed of all activity that we pick up. If you want an expendable scout, Sollow's the best bet. He's invulnerable, stealthy, and fast...and can handle himself in combat.''

At this moment, Baptarion received several warnings on his screen.

Baptarion - Wait, I'm receiving some news from my scouts...The Chosen's fleets are approaching some targets... Yogtam - What?! Tyraz - ''Targets? Who are they?'' Hagto'Zhl - ya mom an ya dad Baptarion - They're approaching Zoleia...and Ikkiz, and Grenzaar, and Praetoria...and some part of the Arm of Wildness we've not yet mapped.

Arsac's hologram turned away for a moment. Falrik Zaarkhun coughed, and spat out his cigar.

Arsac - Lifefather's breath... Falrik Zaarkhun - Did you just say the Arm of Wildness? Baptarion - Yes.

Falrik issued an order to the rest of the Consortium Network, while Arsac's hologram quickly dissolved as she walked away.

Falrik Zaarkhun - ''We'll locate the attacks immediately. And give you battle reports.'' Xerkea - ''They better stay off our territory! The Seagon battle shows what happens when you mess with us!'' Baptarion - ''You do that. There's a sixth fleet that's just wandering around the Relays, like it's waiting for something...everyone, prepare the defenses of your worlds!'' Tyraz - What's with the sudden look of shock? Falrik Zaarkhun - ''I didn't predict this to happen...odd...it's not like the Chosen normally. Something's clearly going on.'' Sarec - Praetoria is the Imperiums' capital here in Borealis, and the planet mistress Arsac is currently stationed on. Tyraz - What?!

Tyraz growled.

Baptarion - What is puzzling me is that they're not attacking the Collective...this is really unusual.

Genrai Nal appeared on screen.

Hachi - Heh, welp, so long as Collective is safe I'm good! Sarec - Show some consideration child! Genrai Nal - Baptarion, I would like you to please send me battle reports and gathered information of the potential Chosen warriors. Baptarion - ''Eh. Okay...The sixth fleet seems to be wandering around the Kicath's territory. It might attack them as well. I don't know what the Chosen are planning, but they'll fail...''

Six attacks. Six targets. Six warriors...

No Peace For Zoleia
It had only been a few weeks since Roshisiz had attacked Zoleia, homeworld of the Zoles Imperium. And now, it was once again under attack. This time, demons manifested through the planet and attacked relentlessly, being led by the maddened Radeon champion,. While King Rebaris and the Prime Ministers were taken to safety off world, led the Imperium's forces against the deranged cultists and demons.

Vekaron - Finish them off fast, we can't afford men being corrupted. Zoles Trooper - Sire, they are erecting shrines across the cities! Vekaron - ''Take them down! Prioritize them, as they empower all demons nearby.''

Vekaron and his men marched through the capital city, fighting off cultists before they could summon more demons. The Imperial fleet meanwhile kept the Chosen's spaceships from entering the planet, while attacking the formidable Val'dahr demons before they could cause harm to the ground forces. As the shrines burned down, Indricarron emerged from the debris of a building and fired his chaingun at several soldiers, killing them instantly.

Indricarron - ''HERESY! EVERYWHERE! MUST DESTROY! EVERYTHING!'' Vekaron - I'll put an end on your misery, you abomination. Indricarron - ''NO! COWARD! FOOL! I'LL CRUSH YOUR BONES TO ASH!''

Indricarron jumped at Vekaron and swinged his large mechanical arm, trying to claw him. While Vekaron was larger in size, Indricarron was several times stronger, and a swipe from that clawed hand could easily rip a Zoles in pieces. Vekaron evaded the attacks and tried to attack himself, but Indricarron was very agile, evading the attacks with ease. Vekaron's soldiers all fired at Indricarron, which hurt him slighty, but also made him angrier.

Indricarron - ''YOU HIDE BEHIND YOUR MEN! LIKE A COWARD! I'LL TAKE AWAY THE LIFE OF YOUR MEN!'' Vekaron - We are strong because we fight together!

Vekaron slashed Indricarron several times, making him groan in pain and back up. Glove-like armor formed on Vekaron's hands after he pressed a button on his suit, which were engulfed in electricity. Vekaron punched Indricarron's face repeatedly, making the Radeon champion roar and jump away, firing his chaingun. Vekaron took cover, and after Indricarron stopped firing, jumped out and tackled him. Indricarron was enraged and engulfed his hand in entropic energy, enhancing his speed and power. As he swiped to hit Vekaron, he hit buildings which were destroyed by the immense power of the impact. However, Vekaron managed to evade the attacks until he saw an opportunity, and then uppercut Indricarron high into the air, until he fell into the ground.

Vekaron - For the King and the Imperium! Indricarron - I DIE...TO LIVE AGAIN LATER!

Vekaron took his blade and slashed it, decapitating Indricarron. With the Champion dead, the Chosen quickly retreated. Vekaron panted and looked around. Despite the damage and casualties, many men managed to survive the attack. Congratulating them for their effort, Vekaron made his way back to his ship, to inform Baptarion of his victory.

Fate of Criminals
Volim smashed his hand on his throne.

Volim - ''They are going for Vijaha! My homeworld! Do something NOW!''

Falrik Zaarkhun pondered for a while. He ha been seriously considering how to approach this. Zaarkhun was not the staright forward thinker when it came to military strategies. He wouldn't even think of doing what the enemy would expect. Ref'kolar. Why would they send Ref'kolar? He could get Sollow laughing, and something told Zaarkhun that they'd know Genrai's fighting style too well. As for that Jittoram? He was likely someone who the Chosen had already considered, too; Ref'kolar would be able to get any Zi-Jittoram into a sort of combat craze, making them completely insane. No, Zaarkhun needed to give the job to someone unexpected, yet someone who could pull off the job. And someone trustworthy.

Captain Torrent had to go.

Falrik Zaarkhun - I've got a plan...

The typical, large BCN force - with technology ranging from weak to overpowered illegal weapons - was sent to deal with the demons. A huge force of demons, who had begun corrupting the planets' opponents and the BCN force, hawere being led by Ref'kolar. And Ref'kolar was the sorcerer in control of it all. Ref'kolar was fully expecting Sollow, Genrai, or Skhanaroton...and hadn't even noticed when Torrent slashed at his side. And nearby Ref'kolar, there was a dark, shady figure with glowing red eyes...

Ref'kolar was taken aback. He blasted at Torrent, who dodged. Torrent pulled out his pistol and shot Ref'kolar three times, hitting on the third, straight in Ref'kolar's mouth. He was hurt, but then retained his levitating position, and laughed hysterically.

Ref'kolar - HUR DEY SENT A WEEK FUCKA TA FITE ME INSTED OF DEIR BEST...DIS IS FUCKIN HILARIUS!!!!! Torrent - ''Weak fucker? I'm the Consortium Networks' best weapon, and your demise!'' Ref'kolar - ''HAHAHAHAHAHAHA THIS IS SO FUNNY!!!! SHU'ULATHOI WILL LAUGH AS HARD AS ME WHEN I GIVE HIM YOUR SOUL!!!!''

Ref'kolar threw punches at Torrent, but was surprised to see how fast Torrent dodged. Torrents' reactions were incredibly sharp, and he was able to catch Ref'kolar offguard, hitting hard. Torrent was not to be underestimated. That much was certain. Ref'kolar growled.

Ref'kolar reached to grab Torrent, who just sliced at Ref's arm. Ref'kolar had clearly underestimated Torent. But Ref'kolar knew it. Something was wrong. This wasn't funny at all. As Ref was stalled for a second, Torrent shot him in the eye. An eye was any Loron's weakness; when taken out thy are blinded, and it is incredibly painful. Ref'kolar grunted, then had an idea. He grabbed Scallywag, Torrent's pet, and held it in his hand.

Ref'kolar - ''Hey, I've got one. What do you call a bird with a broken spine?''

Torrent was enraged. He sprinted at Ref'kolar, who laughed and kicked him down, then fired at him. Torrent was in bad pain, and Ref'kolar was hysterical.

Ref'kolar - ''Aw, come on! I didn't get to the punchline!''

Ref'kolar punched Torrent, breaking his skull.

Ref'kolar - ''GEDDIT? PUNCHLINE? HURHURHUR''

Torrent yelled in pain. His skull was broken, and Ref'kolar was certain that Torrent couldn't finish the fight. But Torrent knew what he was doing. His skull had been enforced with carbon fibre, as had his skeleton. Torrent was no completely cybertech-augmented individual. He was no completely nanotech-augmented zombie. He was no completely superpowered freak. He was a badass normal, augmented with skeleton enforcement, making his bones strong enough to resist Loron punches, even ones from Ref'kolar. Torrent smiled, as he stabbed Rek'kolar in the back, and kept slashing at him.

Torrent - I'm gonna teach you, you bitch...do not mess with my friend!

Ref'kolar was surprised, but managed to throw Torrent off. Torrent had expected it, and shot Ref'kolar in the mouth with an exploding bullet. And then in the eye.

Ref'kolar - Beaten by an ordinary mortal...SO FUCKIN IRONIC AN DIS SUKS MAN

Ref'kolar fell, lifeless. His body then disintergrated. The demons should now have lost power. They should be reduced severely without the Champion. But they weren't...why? Someone else was there...

Volim arrived on the planet. He me up with Torrent, whose bones were healing (thanks to nanomedicine) but who had deemd it unsafe to fight.

Volim - ''Zaarkhun says that the demons decrease in strength when the Champion is gone. He said also that the only reason they couldn't have is that there must be another leader here. But who?''

Volim's arrival on the battlefield brought a huge morale boost to all the other soldiers, who were honoured to fight alongside Volim, the greatest warriro ever. Volim smashed several demons apart one by one, grinning evilly as he moved on to the next one. He charged, alongisde a huge tank, straight into the dwindling demon forces. But next to him, the tank was destroyed in seconds. But no Essence blast had hit it. And it didn't look like a shell had, either. No...from observation, it was a blade which had done this. Volim peered forward, and was then choked from behind. It was Murangon Nal.

Murangon Nal - ''You are a disgrace. Formerly one of the greatest warriors, to be reduced to someone so weak, so dependant on others...you are nothing but a relic.'' Volim - You...!

Volim struggled to get out, but couldn't. And then, suddenly, Murangon had been thrown off. Volim caught his breath, and saw that Genrai Nal had done it. Volim nodded at Genrai, rather than showing any thanks. Murangon looked at Genrai, locking eyes.

Murangon Nal - ''So, you are the one who replaced me? I have wanted for a long time to best myself in combat. This will be very interesting. But I am superior, as I have the Devourer's blessing, which you do not.'' Genrai Nal - Only combat shall prove who is superior.

Genrai Nal and Murangon locked in combat, slashing each other, until their blades locked with each others. But Murangon was stronger than Genrai, and Murangon won, stabbing Genrai, and kicking hm back. Genrai Nal healed slowly, but it would not be enough to save him. Murangon picked Genrai up by the throat and prepared his right blade to stab Genrai's heart. At that moment, Volim charged and threw a punch at Murangon's head, then the chest, and finally kicked him in the stomach. Murangon lost his grip on Genrai, who stabbed Murangon. Murangon was taken aback.

Murangon Nal - ''This is hardly what I would call a true test of skill. If you were truly the warrior I am, Genrai, you would have fought me alone.'' Volim - ''Ugh. Cut the "honourable warrior" crap. We're here to fight.''

Murangon showed his disgust for Volim, and then disappeared. Genrai did too, however, and backstabbed Murangon, revealing him. Vlim ran over to Murangon and kicked him in the face multiple times.

Murangn Nal - It seems I have lost a key advantage...

Volim chuckled, and wrestled with Murangon Nal. Volim's implants had made him strong enough to match Murangon's physical strength, added with Genrai's co-ordination, and they could match Murangon in power. Murangon growled, gatherd strength, and threw Volim off, only for Genrai to stab him in the side. Murangon grunted, and stabbed both. They fell back, but healed.

As the fighting progressed, it was clear that Murangon had lost. Genrai Nal stole a portion of Murangon's soul, as he was down. Murangon Nal coughed.

Murangon Nal - It seems I have been outmatched... Volim - Fuck you too.

Murangon Nal rose up, and looked at them squarely.

Murangon Nal - ''I will return. But when I do, I will be more powerful.'' Genrai Nal - I hope you deliver on that claim, as I would prefer a challenge. Murangon Nal - ''You have outsmarted us. We did not expect you to take this approach to combating our attack, and I can only assume that you have Zaarkhun to thank for being so unpredictable. But we are far from defeated. And you may think you're winning, but you are not...'' Volim - ''Aw, blow it out your ear. I bet you were bottlefed as a child.'' Murangon Nal - ''Hmph. Ask Genrai about my past; you have no idea.''

Murangon walkedd off, but as he did, he vanished. The demon forces were decreased in strength, and the battle would soon be won.

Volim - ''I don't care much for you and Murangon's backstory, but I assume I'll hear it anyway. Give it from a first person perspective- the clones stuff is confusing.''

Genrai nodded, and began to explan the story.

Genrai Nal - ''I was born millennia ago, to a father who had given up most of his soul and free will to have his DNA edited to be a Kalyik, a breed of those who had betrayed the Blyro'Tralzica to join the Vyro'Ralza cultled by Zelfron. I was made far more powerful, given an immnity to aging, ability to heal incredibly quickly, and mastery over Dark Gyronic, but even less free wll than my father. I was made into one of the Dark Templars, due to my skills; the warriors of time's shadow, we were called. I was a Dark Templar Assassin, but in truth, I was more of a serial killer. As I fought more, I soon realised that Zelfron was blind. I most of the Dark Templars, killing each of them one by one, until only a few were left. Zelfron branded me a Nal - meaning "unforgivable" - for traeachery. Zelforn sent Daark Templar Assassins after me, but I naturally ran, through the spacetime continuum...until I met the Zaarkhun Consortium. The rest, you know.'' Volim - ''Hm, I see...Now let's call it a day. Guess we should inform the goody goods about this...''

Faster-Than-Light Nightmare
Similar to how Zoleia had been attacked, Planet Ikkiz had been attacked by the two months ago. led her men on land while the space fleet kepy the advancing Chosen fleet at bay, the demons of the Corruptus storming through the planet at a very fast rate. While the Niaka's mecha suits protected them from damage, it could not protect them from the Chosen's corruption.

A group of elite soldiers landed and quickly attacked the Niaka. Xerkea was perplexed, as the Empahreen could move faster than she could attack them. Empahreen were always famous for being able of turning themselves into tachyons, giving them faster-than-light speed. As Xerkea finally managed to grab one, she crushed it on her grasp and slammed it into the ground.

Xerkea - This is the price for your crimes, you mad bastards! Niaka Trooper - ''Chief Major, we are taking heavy losses on space! We won't be able of holding off much longer!'' Xerkea - ''Damn...keep fighting! We will show these demons what we're made of!''

As Xerkea said this, a large shadow appeared on the sky and fired a beam of entropic venom which exploded and gibbed several Niaka soldiers into pieces. The shadow landed and shaked off the dust. It was.

Kernax - ''I see. You are made of weak blood, bones and flesh...'' Xerkea - ''You scum! You're the one leading this attack!'' Kernax - ''Know your place, mortal! The only scum here is your species!''

Kernax charged at Xerkea's mecha, knocking it back considerably. Xerkea got a hold of her feet and fired her gun at the Empahreen champion, who could easily evade the shots. Kernax slashed Xerkea's suit with his toxic blades and kicked it away, showing he was much stronger than he looked. Niaka soldiers surrounded Kernax and fired, and while he evaded their attacks, Xerkea had time to study his path. Seeing the opportunity, Xerkea thrusted her mecha's arm forward, grabbing Kernax by the neck, and slammed him into the nearest wall until it crumbled on him. Xerkea panted, but her men cheered, thinking it was over.

Kernax - This is what you face...this is what you fear...Your soul will be a pleasant gift for the Devourer of Dreams! The rubble exploded and knocked all the Niaka away, Kernax emerged as a gigantic beast. His Ascended Champion form. Letting out a roar, waves of entropic energy were emitted from his body which turned all nearby buildings into putrid, poisonous ash. Kernax crushed the Niaka mechas with ease and grabbed Xerkea, the same way she was grabbing him before.

Xerkea - Aargh! Kernax - ''You deem us criminals. But we are the righteous ones. And if we want to expand the right way across the cosmos, we must deal with obstacles...such as you!''

Kernax crushed Xerkea's mecha on his grasp, letting out a raspy, cruel laugher. Xerkea closed her eyes, expecting the worst, when a blast from the sky hit Kernax, making him let go of her, as well as knocked him away. Xerkea looked up and was confused. It was a Seagon fleet. Kernax looked back and roared, launching blasts of entropic energy at the Seagon, destroyign several of their ships. But unnoticed by him was a small Seagon ground force who had landed near the battlefield. The Seagon leader of the squad rolled what looked like a grenade next to Kernax, which exploded forming a vortex which started to suck Kernax into it.

Kernax - What...is this!? Seagon Leader - ''Reverse engineered Kormacvar spacetime crusher. Say your prayers, demon!'' Kernax - No! This is not the end of me!

Kernax held the ground but the vortex was too potent. He screamed as he was completely sucked into it. As the champion was sucked, the vortex became smaller, and all could hear Kernax's bones being crushed. The vortex then exploded, launching Kernax's crushed gibs all over the battlefield. The Seagon cheered, and Xerkea quickly approached them with what remained of her men.

Xerkea - ''You set foot on our land...but you save our lives. What trickery is this, Seagon?'' Seagon Leader - ''i'm sorry, I should have introduced myself. I am Seargent Trastius, new military commander of the Seagon Empire, and I'm here to fix the problems we have caused.'' Xerkea - ''Eh...? Are you saying...'' Trastius - ''Yes. The Seagon desire peace with the Niaka Special Forces.''

Unexpected Help
As the war continued, Lemmo Meronis remained stranded on his ship, his crew dead, his ship no longer functioning properly. He spent his time watching the nightskies yet again, contemplating on what has the new galaxy brought. Immediately as he stepped into this new untapped realm, he lost everyone he loved. This wasn't so pleasant, but Lemmo steeled himself and prepared a risky attempt to survive. Tachyonic signals were sent on multiple frequencies from his ship. He will either die or be saved. He was content with both...

Over time, his signal was answered. Lemmo watched the ship coming, of red and blue colour. Was it friend or foe? He did not know. To ensure his safety, Lemmo prepared his weapons and contacted the coming ship.

??? - Is anyone there? Lemmo - Affirmative!

Lemmo felt somewhat refreshed by the fact that he got answered and not shot to death.

??? - ''There's a survivor! Rescue team, go!'' Hachi - ''Resistance is futile! Oh wait, wrong line.''

Baptarion, Hachi and a group of Dracogonarious beamed to inside Lemmo's ship, who met the group with a mix of fear and surprise.

Baptarion - ''So I was right about the Chosen being in this region...Who are you, stranger? I've never seen your species before.'' Lemmo - ''Hey! If you're with the Chosen, I'll fight you till the end!'' Baptarion - ''What? I'm no Chosen!'' Lemmo - ''Uh... You sound sane. I'll believe you. Pleased to meet you, captain Lemmo Meronis of the New Tertamian Alliance.'' Hachi - I'm Hachi!

Lemmo watched at Hachi, slightly disturbed.

Lemmo - Okay, you are a Radeon... but who's THAT? Hachi - *tilts head* I'm a human. Baptarion - ''I'm Baptarion Light of the Indoctrinate Collective. And Tertamian Alliance? I though that was an Andromedan empire.'' Lemmo - ''Ah, yes, I'm from Andromeda. It is our first extragalactic expedition, in fact.'' Baptarion - ''Well you're really far from home, and in a very dangerous region too. We can take you to safety.'' Lemmo - ''Safety? Yeah, I'd like that... But one thing first. If we'll meet any more of these Chosen blokes, can I shoot them?''

Lemmo showed Baptarion his loaded laspistol.

Lemmo - These psychos took away all my crew, and I would like to repay the debts... Hachi - ''Feel free! Heh, I'd like to have a go myself'' Baptarion - We're all enemies of the Chosen here.

A vengeful smile appeared on Lemmo's gloomy face.

Lemmo - Then let's do it!

The Skewer
As the attack on Ikkiz was contained, Baptarion soon contacted the Draconid Imperium.

Baptarion - ''Status report! How is the defense going?'' Vekaron - ''Greetings. We have successfully defeated a Champion and defended Zoleia for the second time, and Xerkea tells me so has she.'' Admiral Taronus - ''Good to see backup. The Chosen have hit the Praetoria system hard.'' Agent Nu - Goddamn Legion... Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Praetoria? Hmm...I imagine they'll send their biggest invasion force there. We had better be ready.'' Baptarion - ''Indeed, the fleet that went for Praetoria was large. The dark apostle really hates the inquisition.'' Taronus - The Inquisition is leading ground forces however from what I can tell their ground forces have completely by-passed any ground-to-orbit defences. Nu - ''So what do we do? Land on the planet and break Chosen skulls?'' Baptarion - ''That's the plan. I will remain in space to coordinate orbital defense.'' Taronus - ''That would be helpful yes. The 471st fleet is currently engaging the Chosen in orbit. My best advice is to aid the defences fo the major cities. Body counts are already in the hundreds of thousands.''

On the surface, Arsac led an army of Talon Ground Legionnaires. Genrai Nal was found sharpening his blade, Sllow licking his small blades clean, and Falrik Zaarkhun jugling with his revolvers, when they stopped and looked at everyone who had landed. Nu pulled out a Kicathian minigun and smirked.

Arsac - Show the Chosen your steel! Let none of these maniacs defile our homes! Nu - Let us begin.

Hordes of Malcaeum demons and cultists charged at them. Nu fired at them whilst laughing evilly. Hachi got out his sword and chuclked a little.

Hachi - Oh, deary me...hehe, right, let's get fighting! Arsac - ''Malcaeum... Soldiers temper your rage. These beasts feed off anger!''

Xerkea arrived, in her mech suit. Various alien soldiers fired volley of guns at the Malcaeum.

Xerkea - I've just fought them off our world, I'll smash them here as well. Nu - Don't just stand there, fight!

A much larger Malcaeum, with a surprisingly calm appearence, slowly approaches the group. As the cultists die, their souls are absorbed into the giant Malcaeum's blade. Xerkea's mech suit came smashed down on many Malcaeum, while Genrai cut many of them apart with his blade. Sollow ran through them, stabbing them, and Falrik shot many of them off from distance. Arsac smirked as an artillery shell lended in a pack of Chosen

Arsac - Apologies everyone, it is good to see you all here. Cultist - You shall feel the wrath of the Skewer! Nu - That doesn't look good. Genrai Nal - ''Wait. There is a stronger opponent up ahead that may cause us problems. I will go ahead and take him out.''

Genrai Nal cloaked, and appeared behind the Skewer Malcaeum, stabbing it, while Hahci happily decapitated a cultist. The Skewer felt to pain and kicked Genrai away with explosive strenght. Genrai Nal got back up on his feet again, feeling nothing. He cloaked, and the stabbed the Skewer, however, his attacks were doing no damage.

Hachi - I'm surprised that Tyraz isn't here...Heh, anyway! Arsac - The way I see it, these cultists are scared.

The cultists fired angrily at Arsac. Nu fired at more of them.

Nu - Uh...uh.

The Skewer grew in size at each of Genrai Nal's attacks, and seeing that his efforts were in vain, he simply went back to the ground. Hachi rushed in firing a pistol, almost hitting everybody, one shot hitting Arsac's energy shield.

Arsac - They fear us, they fear the judgement of the righteous. Cultist - ''We are the righteous ones! Feel death's dark embrace!'' Sollow - I agree with you...death is far better than life...which is why I shall give you some... Nu - No.

Nu decapitates said cultist with a punch.

Arsac - I am the herald of death to all sinners! Nu - Just keep coming, all it's doing is making me a better machine of death.

Arsac bound towards a group of cultists and with a swing of her claws she slices them in half. Sollow cut the cultist in half, and then killed many other with thrown knifes. Genrai Nal and Xerkea crushedmany other squads. The Skewer made to the group and aimed his blade at them, launching a large beam made of the tortured souls of the cultists, which exploded the battlefield into a large crater and caused major damage to the group.

Nu - ''Gah. Anyone here control essence?''

Falrik Zaarkhun shot at the Skewer, expecting his his exploding bullets to finish the monster off. However, they dealt no damage. Meanwhile, Arsac channeled her essence into the Skewer, making it feel her presence. The demon slashed his blade at her, hitting her armor. Meanwhile Nu turned around and fired at more cultists. Arsac was hit and rolled to the side. She recovered quickly and struck at the Skewer's legs, again dealing no damage. The Skewer kicked Arsac away, still with a blank, calm face. Nu notices that he is wearing his gauntlet and then looked at the Skewer.

Nu - ''Hmmmm.... Hey! Ugly!'' Hachi - Err...aha!

The Skewer looked at Nu, while Hachi made a medium-sized ball of Dream Energy within his palm. Sollow licked his blade clean, and threw it straight threw the Skewer's neck, which simply was burned into ash in contact with the demon

Nu - Cmon, gimme your best shot!

Nu prepared his gauntlet, chuckling. Meanwhile, Arsac jumped at the creature's back. Hachi threw the ball of Dream Energy at the Skewer, almost hitting Nu and Sollow in the process, while missing the Skewer completely.

Nu - WATCH IT, YOU LITTLE PUNK.

The Skewer looked at the ball of Dream Energy, then looked at Hachi and started to growl.

Nu - ''Oi! Over here you big idiot!'' Hachi - ''Err...b-bring it on! Shit...'' Genrai Nal - ''Hachiman. You are a disgrace and represent all that is wrong with young warriors.''

The Skewer shoved Nu into the ground as he ran into Hachi's direction. Genrai Nal cloaked and appeared behind the Skewer, stabbing at many times, but still dealt no damage. Hachi squeaked a little and then ran the opposite direction, firing his little pistol which missed the Skewer and almost shoots the others. Arkarixus watched the fight from afar whiel keeping the demon and cultist forces from approaching alongside several forces.

Arkarixus - ''Your attacks obviously deal no damage to the creature. Use essence instead!''

Charging her claws, Arsac plunged one deep into the Skewer's spine.

Nu - *Gets shot by Hachi* YOU'RE GLAD I'M WEARING ARMOR YOU IDIOT! Falrik Zaarkhun - ''If only Tuolog were here... Someone. Infuse all our attacks with Essence.'' Arsac - Like this?

Arsac closed her eyes, and heated the air around her to cook the Skewer. Nu prepared his gauntlet.

Nu - Place the essences here! Hachi - Gotcha!

Hachi threw miniature balls of Dream Energy at the Skewer while he closed his eyes, still missing it and hitting soldiers. The Skewer stopped and tried to shak Arsac off his back, without success.

Soldier - Hey hotshot, what where you're throwing those things! Hachi - Oops...s-sorry! Skewer - Off...me...

Falrik Zaarkhun groaned, and channeled essence. He channelled essence through all the soldiers, infusing all their attacks with Gyronic.

Genrai Nal - Falrik...you can channel Essence? Nu - OI I SAID PUT THE ESSENCES ON MY HAND!

The Skewer's body temperature intensified, and Arsac could feel her hands burning. Genrai Nal was surprised, but continued to attack. Sollow continued throughing knives at the Skewer. Hachi ran over to Nu, and slammed a ball of Dream Energy against his gauntlet. Arsac infused elemental energy into her claws.

Arsac - Not until you are dust! Nu - Hmph.

Struggling to stay on, Arsac plunged the claw into the back of the Skewer's head. Nu ran at the monster with a charged gauntled, the Skewer being too distracted to notice him coming. Hachi watched Nu and then slipped, accidentally firing his pistol and struck Arsac's arm. Arsac merely flinched at the shot.

Nu - Anákot'chama!

Nu jumped up to the Skewer's head and slammed the gauntlet into his head. The demon grunted and was knocked back, falling into the ground. As it fell, Arsac pulled her fist out and jumped off. Falrik Zaarkhun fired Essenec-infused shots at the Skewer, while Nu punched it continuously in the head with the gauntlet. The demon, wounded, roared and dissolved into a black fog. Nu let out a heavy sigh.

Nu - Glad that's over. Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Quit getting in the way, Hachiman. Because I won't stop shooting just because you're in front of me. I'll shoot you.'' Nu - ''Hmph. My gauntlet's destroyed now. A lot of good that was..''

Nu ripped the gauntlet off his arm. After studying the site where the Skewer had fallen, Arsac felt satisfied.

Falrik Zaarkhun - ''I forgot to tell you. I can channel Essence, y'know. Using spacetime Essence emulators.'' Arkarixus - ''That creature is defeated, but the demon forces are still intense. That was not the one leading the attack.'' Nu - ''That wasn't leading the attack? Heck, if you told me that I could have brought my cannon.'' ??? - I am the leader of this invasion.

The group turned into the voice's direction.

Herald of Corruption
Capastrus the Emotionless slowly made his way into the battlefield.

Arsac - You again... Hachi - Geezush what the hell is that?! Nu - Now you are an ugly motherfucker. Capastrus - ''You should be proud. You have managed to wound the Skewer, the most powerful of all Malcaeum.''

Genrai Nal sharpened his blades, and chuckled.

Arsac - Back to the infernal pits it spawned from. Genrai Nal - If you have any skills, I would like you to show them. Hachi - I'll get you!

Hachi ran towards Capastrus while his eyes were closed. The Champion simply shoved him away with a blast of entropic energy, which blew him through a wall.

Capastrus - ''Greetings, Arsac. I remember our last battle, which frankly had a very boring outcome. I hope today the result is more interesting.'' Arsac - ''Hrmph. I prefer the term "predictable" to boring.'' Nu - Why oh why did we let that human join us? Capastrus - ''I see you brought some friends. More followers for the god, surely.'' Arsac - But no matter. *extends her claws and the blades glisten with energy* ''You will tell your god that I will send you back to him a broken mess. And if I die, I'm going to rush straight for it with the fury of a thousand suns!'' Capastrus - Oh, you can meet my god personally. Nu - ''You sound like you know my friend. Perhaps I should acquaint him with you. ''

A black fog was emitted from Capastrus, which quickly engulfed most of the battlefield. Suddenly, a Shidium fire rained from the sky, towards Capastrus but missing him barely.

Capastrus - And I see the Zazane has also come. Arsac - You shroud yourself, but you will still fail.

Tyraz's voice was heard from a communicator in his ship.

Tyraz - ''I am currently fighting your forces from space, demon! I have faith the warriors on the ground will defeat you!'' Nu - ''This reminds me of that time I was training as an Agent. From what I remember I killed 59 Kicath in two minutes.'' Sollow - You are pathetic...you realise of course that you will be defeated rather easily... Capastrus - ''Oh will I? Your body lacks a soul, so it is useless for us. You'll be used maybe as a weapon, instead.'' Sollow - Hahaha....you are foolish...souls are overrated...

it was too hard to see in the black fog, Capastrus disappearing in it. Suddenly, a buzzing sound was heard in everyone's heads. Something very strange. Felt different...but good. Hachi stumbled into Nu and fell down.

Xerkea - Hey, people...are you hearing a buzz sound? Nu - ''Hmph. I hear it too.'' Capastrus - They often say the Devourer's first words sound like a "buzz".

The group was startled. Arsac shifted her electronic eye different light spectrums in order to see through the fog.

Arkarixus - He's corrupting us! Nu - Now...how powerful would I be if I had Entropic Energy in me? Falrik Zaarkhun - Gods...no...

Capastrus emerged from the fog and punched Arsac in the face. She tried to stop the punch but found herself pushed backwards, however she remained on her feet.

Hachi - ''Hey! Unless it's a hot babe with a sexy accent, I do NOT want something whispering in my ear!''

Capastrus disappeared in the fog again. Hachi got out his sword and swinged around, striking Nu's armour. His armor sparked as the sword struck his shield, and leaned down to his face.

Nu - If you hit me, ONE MORE TIME, i'll be sending you back to Earth in a MATCHBOX. Hachi - ''Eeep! S-Sorry Nu!''

Falrik Zaarkhun fired at Capastrus with perfect precision, just as Sollow thew small knives at him, and Genrai Nal disappeare. However, Zaarkhun's and Sollow's attacks were reflected back at their direction. As they went back to Zaarkhun, they simply went around him, and hit the ground beneath Hachi's feet.

Capastrus - Did you lose your touch, Arsac...?

A shadowy portal opened ana a lone white ship emerged: a group of Radeon Celestians appeared, and among them stood a lone figure in white robes. Iovera.

Genrai Nal - ''Hmph. He is using my tactic.'' Celestian - Dei'Ar warriors, disembark and RISE UP! Iovera - Pardon for being so late, but I won't let you win.

A group of Celestian cut through the fog, guarding their mistress

Capastrus - ''Radeon? Oh, the Dark Apostle will be so pleased.''

Arsac closed her eye, a slight breeze began to emerge from above and it spiralled down to blow away the fog.

Tyraz - *calls from his ship* Capastrus, you dare touch her and I will eradicate your very presence! Nu - ''The essence is clouding up my display. *Rips his helmet off* I still can't see anything.''

Iovera threw lightning out of her fingertips at the rising darkness, clearing the fog for a while. Capastrus emerged again, this time behind Hachi. He let out a roar as energy came out of Hachi's body into Capastrus's mouth. he was devouring his soul.

Nu - Oh no you don't!

Nu punched downwards into Capastrus' head, while Genrai Nal appeared behind Capastrus and kept stabbing, as did Sollow. Xerkea blasted a chaingun from her mech at Capastrus. Capastrus stopped his devouring and burrowed himself. Disrracted, Iovera looked at Hachi and smiled.

Capastrus - Your souls will be mine... Iovera - Hey, who are you? Arsac - Human, how do you feel? Hachi - I'm Hachi...and your voice sounds hot... Sollow - Sure...take their souls...they are overrated..and frankly worhtless...trust me...you will prefer havin none... Nu - This is not the time for games, human. Arsac - Sollow do you mind not supporting our enemy? Sollow - Supporting the enemy?...I am merely supporting my own opinion...trust me...you will prefer death...

A loud voice was heard on everyone's minds. "You want to give up. You want to serve ME...". Arsac could recognize it as the "Corruptor"'s voice.

Arsac - ''Damantion not again... Everyone ignore the voices!'' Iovera - ''What is this... argh...''

Nu stumbled and collapsed to the ground on his knees, cracking the floor. Hachi slammed his head with his mechanical fist.

Hachi - ''Hey! I will only serve a hot evil babe!'' Xerkea - Ugh.

Capastrus emerged from the ground behind Nu and started to suck his soul next. Nu was too distracted to fight back.

Iovera - ''The Entropic presence... again...''

Arsac turned and blasted Capastrus with a pulse of energy to throw him back; Xerkea acted quickly, firing at Capastrus. Genrai Nal and Sollow followed, with Falrik Zaarkhun infusing everyones' attacks with Gyronic. Capastrus was knocked back, and fell down, lifeless. Hachi walked over to Capastrus' body, and he examined it.

Hachi - Huh... Arsac - ''Sollow... You realise that by saying he can take our souls, the beast wins?''

Sollow shrugged while Nu got up in a druken-like state.

Sollow - That means nothing to me. Nu - N-never...distract...me...again. Voice - It's not over...UNTIL I SAY SO.

Capastrus suddenly came back to life, and started to grow in size, becoming more and more demonic, until he reaches his Ascended Champion form.

Capastrus - I feel...irritated... Hachi - Grr, this shit is getting old! Arsac - The bigger they are... Hachi leaped into the air, and attempted to create a ball of Dream energy. Capastrus, however, smacked Hachi into the ground, and then started to channel his energy to suck everyone's souls at the same time. Nu immediately fell unconscious. Sollow laughed, having no soul to be drained, while Falrik Zaarkhun couldn't be affected. Xerkea fired at Capastrus in retaliation. Arsac resisted allshe could, but she could feel herself weakening*

Arsac - I....Will...Not...Fall... Voice - Give up...serve me...serve my purpose!

Iovera saw her Celestians fallimg to the champion's attacks and answred by a burst of lightning. Capastrus' mammoth-like body shrugged off all the attacks, suffering little damage. Falrik Zaarkhun infused all their attacks with Gyronic, hoping to improve it.

Tyraz - Grr...*takes up his Firesword, and watches from his ship* I should be down there...! Iovera - ''I endured the Mali'nar. Your god means... mothing.'' Arsac - ''The day I surrender... to you... Is the day... I... Die!''

Capastrus stopped draining the souls, and looked at Arsac with confusion.

Capastrus - ...I do not understand this determination.

Gathering her strength, Arsac concentrated hard, she sudenly entered a trance and the rock under Capastruss's feet began to pull him into the earth. Capastrus launched more black fog into the air.

Capastrus - You will bow.

Tyraz's ship suddenly unleashed a blast of Shidium fire at Capastrus, missing his face though the light of it was enough to blind due to how close it was, almost hitting Hachi in the process.

Hachi - Whoa whoa whoa!

As Arsac focused the rock began to melt. To those who could sense it, by entering a Trance Arsac became noticeably more powerful. The rock pulling Capastrus in began to melt and bubble. Iovera's body begin to shine as spheres of light radiated from her body, burning Capastrus.

Capastrus - Ugh...you're boring me with this...time for something new.

Possessed
Nu started flinching slightly as he woke up. Capastrus groaned, and moved out of the way. Meanwhile, the voice spoke again.

Voice - Join me...like the Kicath...JOIN ME...LIKE HIM... Iovera - ''It begins. My power is... unleashed...'' Hachi - Get up!

As Nu stood up, slowly his eyes begin to glow red, skin turns into a blackish purple and horns grow extremely and break his armor.

Capastrus - ''The Kicath has accepted his fate. You will be next.''

Arsac turned to Nu silently. Hachi looked at him, and then began to make a ball of Dream Energy behind his back.

Hachi - Goddamn... Entropic Nu - ....S-ss-ssurrender.

Iovera's energy continued to radiate. Her eyes glowed white as she turned to Nu.

Capastrus - ''Now, my new brother. Show them what the Devourer is capable off.''

Iovera's body was literally burning, Celestians around her running away. Nu's height began to rise as the energy coursed through him. Arsac left the trance and looked at Nu.

Arsac - Shit... Hachi - Grr...Nu, don't make me do this! Nu - A...a--a...ANNIHILATE. Iovera - Madness...

Nu started gathering Entropic Energy and blasted it at the group.

Arsac - We have to do something!

Capastrus waved his hands around, channeling energy.

Xerkea - ''Take Capastrus down! That might save Nu!''

Iovera managed to concentrate her powers enough to throw a raw blast of esssence at Nu.

Hachi - Kame....hame....

Hachi started making the ball of Dream Energy bigger. Arsac dodged Nu's blasts and threw a pulse of energy at him. Nu was hit, but just stood back up.

Nu - F---fool.

Nu returned with a powerful blast of Entropic energy.

Arsac - ''Nu, ignore the voices. Do not let them control you!'' Capastrus - You should feel ashamed for wanting to stop me... Arsac - ''You know nothing of me Capastrus! Defiance burns in my blood!'' Hachi - Haaa!

Hachi launched a big beam of Dream Energy that goes straight past Nu, but towards Capastrus as a result. Iovera simply shrugged the essence blast and released it in another explosion, this time pointed at Capastrus. With a wave of her hand, Arsacattempted to send a wave of energy to knock Capastrus back. Capastrus was hit by the attacks, which made him stumble. Nu was slighty weakened, and let out a distorted scream.

Hachi - Shut up! Nu - ''D-devourer. Consumes all!''

Hachi threw a ball of Dream Energy at Nu's chest, making him start running in his direction. Nnoticing the change of power, Arsacfocused, causing an icy wirlwint to surround Capastrus. Droplets of water in the air froze, becoming razor-sharp knives that stabbed at Capastrus's body.

Hachi - ''You guys attack fugly over there! I'll distract Nu!'' Capastrus - Ugh...you're annoying me...

Capastrus channeled his energy into Nu, making him stronger, but leaving himself vulnerable.

Arsac - Consider this your penance!

Nu ran faster towards Hachi, who made another ball of Dream Energy, his eyes becoming whiter as he runs. Arsac focused more, some of the shards slammed together. She directs them to stab Capastrus in the eyes.

Nu - SHOW YOUR SOUL TO THE DEVOURER! Hachi - YOU SHALL NOT PASS! Capastrus - Aaaarghh...defend me, Kicath!

Nu stopped in his tracks and ran back to Capastrus. Hachi threw the large ball of Dream Energy, skimming Nu's cheek and flying straight at Capastrus, hitting him. Genrai uncloaked and stabbed Nu, while Sllow threw sevreral knifes at him, then ran in to stab more. Falrik, meanwhile, had boosted their atacks. Xerkea was still standing back, shooting.

Arsac - It cannot be denied, the empowerment is a curse and the price is your own mind! Nu - Weakling!

Nu smacked Genrai away and then advanced towards Arsac. Arsac focuse for the whirlwind to collapse on Capastrus before focusing on Nu.

Capastrus - Do not insult my blessing, Arsac...you'll feel the same pleasures soon!

Genrai Nal resisted him, cloaked, then appeared with Arsac. He lifted Nu and threw him, for Sollow to run and stab. Falrik then shot Nu at that moment.

Arsac - I prefer the gifts of the Lifefather! Nu - Your soul is mine.

Nu choked Genrai and starts devouring his soul. Iovera stood confused, fighting the voices in her head.

Iovera - ''You know nothing... until Spode knows you.''

Arsac extended her claws and leaps at Nu to impale him. Hachi leaped in Arsac's way as he threw another Dream Energy ball at Nu.

Capastrus - ''Spode is a fake god. You should feel ashamed of having such childish beliefs.'' Arkarixus - What are you doing...Attack the champion, not the Kicath!

Arsac collided with Hachi and they both hit the ground

Arsac - You idiot! Genrai Nal - ''Hmph. You will find nothing in my soul but Dark Gyronic.''

Genrai Nal kicked Nu away, and stabbed him. Nu stumbles slightly as he dropped Genrai and launched at Hachi with a skull crushing punch.

Iovera - ''Spode's power permeats all... it will light our darkest... hour...''

Sollow ran, pulled Nu off Hachi, and then threw a blade at Nu's eye. Channeling her energies, Arsac managed to grab the punch and struggled to stop it from following through. Nu's skull sparked as the blade hit his cybernetic eye.

Arsac - ''Nu.... Look at yourself.... Is this what the Remnant wants!?'' Arkarixus - Must I do everything...

Hachi turned to Capastrus and charged at him, picking up his blade. Nu ripped the blade out of his eye and turned towards Arsac.

Arsac - ''Arkarixus I have a theory for the Kicath. Keep the champion busy!''

Falrik Zaarhun fired several exploding bullets at Nu, who walked towards Arsac whilst shrugging off the bullets. Arkarixus flanked Capastrus and charged at him, making him stumble. Nu was weakened as Capastrus was not concentrated on him. Arsac launched her hand to grab Nu's head. But her plan was not to crush it. Meanwhile Hachi threw rapid-fire small balls of Dream Energy at Capastrus

Hachi - Dakka dakka dakka! Capastrus - I have not seen your kind before...well, the Devourer blesses all in the end!

Nu stumbled slightly but still walked towards Arsac. Genrai Nal appeared and kicked Nu, then stabbed him.

Nu - Your...soul...devoured... Arsac - *telepathically* ''Nu... I know you are inside...''

Capastrus stumbled more as Hachi hurt him, further weakening Nu in the process. Iovera channeled her power and shocked Capastrus, leaving him stunned for a moment. Nu stumbled greater as he fell one knee to the floor. He raised his hand in an attempt to crush Arsac's skull.

Arsac - "Fight it Nu. The corruptor lies, he only makes you his slave"

Arsac raised her arm to grab Nu's before he can reach her. The agent's yes started to flinch as his sanity starts slowly coming back.

Arsac - ''Fight it! You are stronger!'' Capastrus - No...you cannot!

Capastrus charged at Arsac's direction.

Iovera - Perhaps if I will disract Capastrus... Arsac - ''Keep the champion busy! It's working...'' Hachi - Hey, where do you think you're going?!

Hachi stood in Capastrus's way and flinged his Dream Energy-infused blade straight at him. Iovera threw a bolt of essence ar Capastrus too, further weakening him. Capastrus was hit by the attacks and fell down, weakened.

Arsac - "You are strong Nu. You do not have to submit to this power to prove it!" Capastrus - This...is so...boring... Nu - *Starts slumping over* Nnn---nnn... Arsac - ''Keep it up Nu. The Remnant needs you as yourself!'' Hachi - Now that he's a little weaker...

Hachi sent a small flare of Dream Energy at Nu's direction, striking his cheek in an attempt to knock some sense into him. In a split second Arsac pulled out a fusion pistol and fired a beam at Capastrus's head.

Capastrus - I...will..return....

Arsac's beam caused Capastrus' head to explode, killing him. The explosion sent Hachi flying, smacking into Nu. Iovera's power waned and she landed on the ground again. Nu roared as his body returned to normal, he doesn't move as Hachi slams into him. The demon forces around the group quickly fall back.

Iovera - Uh... Arsac - *smiles* Well done.

Hachi grunted, weakened by his use of so much energy

Hachi - D-Did I do g-good? Xerkea - I can no longer hear the voice...

Nu dropped Sollow's blade and grabbed his eye, groaning. Arsac turned away from Hachi with dissapointment while he looks around, a little confused.

Hachi - ...Guys? Arsac - Easy, keep it slow...

Nu ripepd his eye out.

Nu - Gah...I'll change it later. Arkarixus - ''The Kicath needs to be taken to whatever his equivalent of a hospital is. We can't tell if his organs or bones are intact now that the corruption has ended.'' Nu - Agreed.

As Nu stands some of his armor falls off as it is broken Arsac stood up with a smile, turned ot Hachi and grabbed him by the collar.

Hachi - ''Eeep! W-What...?!'' Arsac - ''Your actions today were both a benefit and a hinderance. What were you thinking!?'' Nu - ''Contact Kithworto. He can aid me.'' Hachi - ''Eek! I-I dunno! G-Guys, help me!'' Arsac - ''Several cases of friendly-fire, gettingin the way of several allied attacks and most of it was from irrational behaviour! Were you even LOOKING where you were firing!?'' Hachi - G-Guys, I d-didn't do that badly!...R-Right?

As Hachi was pulled close, Arsac's lips rippled and she bared her serrated teeth as she growled.

Xerkea - If you were a Niaka cadet you would be sent to clean the bathrooms for a month! Hachi - ''H-Hey! I-I tried my best!'' Arsac - ''I do not know what your mentor sees in you. next time try loking where you are throwing those spheres of volatile essence!''

Baptarion's voice was heard on communications.

Baptarion - ''Everyone? Status report! Tell me you're alive...or at least not crazed.'' Hachi - ''Baptarion! Help me!'' Falrik Zaarkhun - Nothing to really report, Baptarion. Nu - ''Eye torn out. Bones broken. Armor falling off. Usual day.''

Arsac aggressively dropped Hachi and walked away from him with a scowl to check the site of Capastrus's death.

Hachi - I have been in worse workable conditions. Iovera - ''Many died today. It was so... tragic.'' Nu - *Picks up Hachi* ''Get to the ship and think about your actions. I assure you it will be your last mistake as long as I can see out of one eye.'' Sollow - Death is not something to be sad about... Baptarion - You must have killed off the leader, because the Chosen fleet retreated in the blink of an eye. Hachi - *scared* ''Err...Nu...t-those scars on your cheeks weren't me! Honest!'' Arsac - ''They had sent Capastrus the Emotionless. But he'll be back, and I will be waiting.''

Nu hissed and dropped Hachi.

Arsac - ''Human... if you're going to lie, don't do it in front of someone who can read your body language like a book.''

Hachi looked down quietly and picked up his blade.

Baptarion - Huh...I don't even want to kno what happened down there. Admiral - ''Figures are coming in now. It looked like hell down there.'' Nu - ''For a brief moment I felt like Kithworto. Now I know why he's so irritable.''

Arsac was partially smiling as she ground a clump of charred soil between her fingers.

Arsac - ''The Chosen threw everything they had at this planet because of the Order. Want to know what I think?'' Xerkea - Hm? Iovera - Tell us. Arsac - ''I believe they know the Order is a threat to them. Their frontline soldiers focused on me ebcause of my position, they sent Capastrus' a former opponent of mine against me. At the least, they know the Order is an obstacle. At the most extreme, I think they fear it.'' Iovera - This *thing* knows no fear... Arsac - ''Fear manifests itself in different ways, Clericarch. It can appear as anger, apprehension, desperation, the unifying connection is that they are desperate to get rid of it.'' Arkarixus - I must admit, this enemy is powerful to the point the Kormacvar military would take action. Hachi - Hey, Chilly, I did well, didn't I? Arkarixus - No. You looked like a headless insect. Hachi - Ohh...

Arsac walked over to Hachi wit a glare.

Arsac - ''To be truthful I have seen infant initiates perform better than you! Were you under my authority you would spend several months training in a monastery ntil your skilsl improved.'' Hachi - B-But I m-managed t-to...y-ya know, h-help! Arsac - Oh you did, but at the same time you did so with reckless abandon. Xerkea - ''Well, let's call it a day. Capastrus decimated this city, we need to let the inhabitants rebuild now.''

The group left. It would take some time to recover the damage caused by the Chosen, but the battle was won. At least, this battle was...

Strained Friendship
Arsac reamined planetside to coordinate the reconstruction and recovery of the planet. Tyraz's ship landed on the outskirts of the ruined capital of Praetoria. Smoke billowed from the cityscape as field madics treated wounded soldiers. Some of them jabbered from battle trauma as clerics and inquisitors tended to them. Tyraz looked around, stunned that the Chosen had caused so much damage. A terratrix lieutenant saw the sip land and handed a daatapad to a subordiate as he walked over.

Tyraz - What the hell happened here... Lieutenant - ''Grandmaster Breek. We apologise for the mess, the Chosen hit us rather hard on the ground.'' Tyraz - ''Is Arsac still alive? Please, tell me she is okay!'' Lieutenant - ''She recently managed to recover. Her wounds are still healing but she was insistant she could handle herself. I hear she has come out far worse before.'' Tyraz - ''Hmph...and what of your men? How many people died?'' Lieutenant - ''60% of my regiment are in bodybags and I hear the military death-toll is a good one-twenty-thousand. Civillian... We did what we could but I have been informed they managed to raze Lavarus some 200k south of here. Last census said the city held 3 million people..'' Tyraz - Shyrak, that's a lot of deaths...

Tyraz put his hand on the lieutenant's shoulder.

Tyraz - ''Take what is rest of your men and patrol around for any Chosen survivors. I need to go have a talk with miss Arsac.''

The lieutenant saluted and returned to his duties.

Arsac was sitting in meditation on a ridge overlooking a crashed Indoctrinate starship; the ship, belonging ot the Chosen fleet had fallen to the surface in the middle of a battle, its hull was charred from re-entry and many hull breaches were present. Upon reaching her, Tyraz slowly walked over with his sword dragging beind him, he felt that he did not want to interrupt. Her body was still fersh with scars from her battle. As Tyraz approached she could sense him and whe nshe spoke Tyraz stopped and turned to look to his side.

Arsac - You did not have to come all this way to worry about me Tyraz. Tyraz - But I did. Arsac - *sighs* ''Your heart is heavy. And Sarec told me there was a sense of horror in you voice when you learned of where I was stationed...''

She opened her eyes and looked out at the crashed starship.

Arsac - ''What is it that makes you fear so much for my life? You know my duty is dangerous and I am sure you know at least some of the risks I have to deal with.'' Tyraz - ''I know, and that is why I worry, miss Arsac. You carry a heavy burden upon your shoulders, and I wish to take some of it on mine.'' Arsac - *she inhaled nervously* ''My burdens are my own. It is part of being an inquisitor.'' Tyraz - I sense there is nervousness in your voice, miss Arsac. Arsac - ''I wish I could believe the responsabilities. Back when I kept anyone from coming close I only had to worry about others if they found themselves at risk. I never imagined feeling concerned for someone in the way I do now. I... I never wanted you to worry but just as you fear for my life I... I fear for your sanity.''

She closed her eye tightly and inhaled nervously. Tyraz looked at her with confusion.

Tyraz - ''Arsac...why so? Tell me what is wrong...you've never sounded so nervous in the years I have known you.'' Arsac - ''I tried to keep such thoughts buried but... I had a dream one night--''

She opened her eye and turned to look at him with the eye staring right at him out of the middle of her face.

Arsac - I saw you. Tyraz - You saw me...

he sighed and then slammed his sword into the ground, he prompted ehr to continue.

Arsac - ''I do not know waht brought such an image up but... A veil was pulled from my eyes to see you standing in your demonic body, you had two of your Zazane holding Uriel in front of you. He was panicking, screaming for you to reconsider what you were about to do to him...'' Tyraz - ''What was I doing...? Please, tell me...'' Arsac - ''You... you ignored his words. I remember you, within the dream, considered it assurance from death.'' Tyraz - Descension...I was...D-Descending him? Arsac - ''You lifted your sword to his chest. I remember my heart racing as energies from it burned him. After he stopped screaming his eyes shone with energies like yours.'' Tyraz - Arsac...I am sorry...

A black tear streamed down his cheek, and he sighed.

Arsac - ''There was more. I do not blame you, what I saw was only an image. You were not how you are now.'' Tyraz - How long ago...was this dream? Arsac - ''It was during the Inquisitino's first crusade in Borealis. A week or two before I announced an end to it.'' Tyraz - ''I see...Hmph, what else can I expect...from an Inquisitor such as yourself? It is your job to be suspicious...''

Arsac looked confusedly at Tyraz. He was becoming more defensive towards her.

Arsac - What are you trying to say? Tyraz - I thought we were friends, Arsac...Sometimes I praise my dreamless sleeps... Arsac - ''Tyraz... I still value your company!'' Tyraz - You value my allegiance! Arsac - ''There was more to the dream. I know the present you would never consider such an act.'' Tyraz - ''And what is this "more"?! My redemption? Somehow I doubt it!'' Arsac - If you think that I still see you as a demon who's only appropriate sancturary is artificial limbo then perhaps our years together were a waste of time. Tyraz - I'm sorry...I don't know what came over me...but then I suppose you don't either...

Arsac stood up and walked over to him. She kneeled down in front of him so she was at eye level.

Arsac - ''Tyraz, I can understand why such thoughts would make you upset. But as I said I feel certain this thing in the dream was not the same Tyraz I am looking at right now.'' Tyraz - I am trying Arsac...I am trying incredibly hard nowadays not to fall...but everyday I feel weaker and weaker! Arsac - ''We all must persevere. You see yourself as a failure but you are doing a very good job.'' Tyraz - Then why...why did you have that dream? Arsac - ''I still do not know. But even for a nightmare there wa something strange about it. Listen: After the aparition was done with Uriel it turned ot me after smacking me aside ith its tail. It looked down at me and as I looked into its eye I saw.... I saw...'' Tyraz - What did you see...?

Arsac looked away as the memory pained her, almost as though she did not want to remember. She inhaled deeply after a long pause and uttered only one word: "you". With that Tyraz slammed the Firesword into the ground, his eyes suddenly burning. Arsac backed away slowly.

Tyraz - ''You should've told me sooner! You make it sound like you are scared of me! Why, Arsac...why did you not tell me sooner?'' Arasc - I thought it would have been better if you never knew... Tyraz - ''Never knew...? You think you can't trust me Arsac?!''

his scales began to blacken as Arsac apprehensively stepped back.

Arsac - I did not want you to worry over such matters! Tyraz - I thought we were friends! Arsac - ''I thought... I thought that.. If you were kept unaware it would never coem to light... It is not that I don't trust you. I was concerned that if I had mentioned it at all it would have only made you feel worse about yourself!'' Tyraz - ''What makes me feel worse is that you never told me! I thought I could trust you! Is this what friends do? Or is this your duty getting in the way of things again?!'' Arsac - ''The decision was never easy... It is not duty this time but I wanted to protect you...'' Tyraz - From what...It's the truth and you know it!

Yellow scars erupted over his black scales as he grew increasingly frustrated with her. He picked up his Firesword

Tyraz - So, was it all lies...? Arsac - ''From your own guilt. When I saw you in the creature's eyes you were not doing so as a controller! The way you forced yourself against the eye, the way you were panicking it looked as though you were a prisoner!'' Tyraz - ''I am a prisoner! You know how often I've felt like driving this damned weapon into my own cursed, still heart?''

Arsac was breathing eratically, her heart raced as she shook her head slightly.

Tyraz - More times than you have killed cultists and heretics!

She felt devastated, she could feel the ridge nearby as she backed further and this prompted her to stop.

Demon Tyraz - ''Remember when I saved you...? Remember when I killed Volkarus just for you...?'' Arsac - ''Tyraz... If I never believed you were beyond redemtion do you think I would have considered that pardon!?'' Demon Tyraz - ''And yet I remember all the times you were scared of me! You fear me Arsac! You fear me!'' Arsac - ''No Tyraz.. I fear the monster inside of you.''

Tyraz slowly calmed down, and released a long sighas he slowly returned to normal. Arsac tuned away fro mhim and looked out over the ridge, her wings sagged.

Tyraz - I'm sorry...My resistance against it grows weaker every day. Arsac - ''No... It's my fault for ever opening up to you.'' Tyraz - I just...wish I could've been told sooner...I didn't want you to think different of me and have it burden you... Arsac - ''If... If I had kept you at arm's length like everyone else neither of us would be in this mess. I damn myself for these moments of weakenss!'' Tyraz - Don't...We all have our moments... Arsac - The last time I felt close to someone, fate took him from me, my own feelings of duty led to his death! Tyraz - Thing is Arsac...your duty is more likely to take you away from me... Arsac - If I die then that is what chance has decided, not all of us are blessed with immortality. Tyraz - I know...it is why I worry so much for you...

Arsac turned back and looked down towards Tyraz with a look of sincerity on her face.

Arsac - ''I do not want my actions to burden yo with worry. My job is to keep you and everyone in the gigaquadrant safe and sane. This armour I wear. Do you know that is more than an icon of office and a form of protection?'' Tyraz - What else does it represent? Arsac - ''It is a reminder... All Inquisitors are removed from non-inquisition records when they are sworn in. They become anonymous to everything they had been a part of before.'' Arsac - ''I am a ghost, Tyraz. Not even my family name is known to anyone outside of a select few in the order!'' Tyraz - ''So nobody aside from the highest authorities remember you? I'd rather have no family name considering my heritage, which has driven all of my people to hate me.'' Arsac - ''Whenever I wear this armour, i am reminded that I am but a shadow. It does not matter if I die; no-one will have known me and it would not be a crippling blow to the order. At least... that was the idea.''

Arsac clutched her fist to her chest as Tyraz walked over and gently put his hand on her shoulder.

Tyraz - ''Not a lot of people may know you, but everybody knows me, and nearly everybody hates me for who I am and for my family history. But if I was to ever meet my demise Arsac...then you would be the first person I would remember during my final moments.'' Arsac - You are sincere. Tyraz - ''I tell the truth. You were my first true friend, Arsac. I have told you things that I never even considered telling Iovera, or Uriel.'' Arsac - ''I wish I could forget the nightmare but something... something burned it into my mind.'' Tyraz - You need not worry Arsac...Whatever happens, I will be there to help protect you... Arsac - ''The first time we met, I was ready to drive a blade into your chest, when you met Uriel it was calm from the beginning. Why are you so protective over me? We both know that every mission, every day might be my last.'' Tyraz - ''Exactly. And I don't want to see you die in vain.'' Arsac - As long as i die fighting, and with purpose, my death would nto be in vain. Tyraz - ''Arsac...I don't know what I would do if I was to lose you. My path would be lost.'' Arsac - ''I see. I suppose I feel honoured you would say that.'' Tyraz - ''Why? I'm nothing but a monster. And everyday, I feel it strangling around my neck, taking ahold of what is left of my shattered sanity.'' Arsac - ''Hope gives us light in the very darkest of places. And speaking of your path, I believe you need to re-orient yourself in your training. I formally request to spend time by your side because I believe you need further guidance.'' Tyraz - ''I will not deny your request, Arsac. I feel I have lost myself, within myself. If that makes any sense at all.'' Arsac - ''I beleive it does. Perhaps meditating under the influence of the monster is being conterprodutive to yourself?'' Tyraz - ''Maybe. I would like to do it again, and I would like for you to observe. Afterwards, I want you to tell me what it was like.'' Arsac - ''As you wish. I am willing to stay by your side and guide you until I feel you are ready to continue your path on your own.'' Tyraz - And what of your path? Arsac - ''The Chosen is what concerns me. I believe that we both share a common goal for now.'' Tyraz - ''Indeed. I shall see this threat ended even if it kills me.'' Arsac - *smiles* ''Very well. You do not have to worry about preparing lavish quarters for me; as long as I have a bed a desk and a place to contemplate I am fine.'' Tyraz - ''You may have my quarters. I do not need sleep due to my nature as a Descended being.'' Arsac - If you so insist. Tyraz - ''I shall spend my night meditating. Give me time to think about what I have done and what I am.'' Arsac - *nods* ''Don't be surprised if I consider joining you. It is something my mentor and I used to do even long after I did not need his full guidance.'' Tyraz - That...makes me feel comfortable.

Arsac looked out into the distance. Tyraz shealthed his Fireword.

Arsac - ''If you are ready to leave, I sahll join you. My work is done on this planet.'' Tyraz - ''Let us leave this world. I feel sick.''

Arsac joined Tyraz to the shuttle he had arrived in and both of them were taken aboard the Ghost Of The Warrior, leaving the rouned Praetoria system behind.

Hell Shapes Time
Distrtess calls. Everywhere. Orbital defences of several planets were breached as the Chosen just bypassed them by teleporting down to the surface. Several planets came under fire, and the UNO Omega Commander as just waiting for one to be attacked by Stolithik. Grenzaar had already been attacked, and it was assumed Stolithik wouldn't try and attack there.

And then the early signs appeared. Tears. Cries of suffering and woe. And they knew what planet it was on. The Omega Commander set a course straight away. UNOC were ready to land. UNOL weer ready to land. A whole fleet of reinforcements was ready to land.

But they were very mistaken.

Stolithik had tricked them. In fact, he was already in Grenzaar, with a huge force of demons swarming. The attack on Grenzaar earlier had only led the wa for this huge demon army to arrive. All led by Stolithik.

Stolithik - Now...for the Devourer...you will CRY!!!

Feldosia woke up. She'd had her daily check-up and nanomedicine, and the AIs and doctors could confirm she was in very good health. As one of the last Technobians not to have yet made the genetic switch, finding help for Feldosia was becoming increasingly hard.

But she soon saw that Grenzaar was under an attack from the inside. The outer defences were incredibly powerful, and so were the inner defences. But why, then, were they all becoming weak?

Because of Stolithik's depression influence. Everyone around him began to cry, even with UNOS in place, and even machines began to see a drop in performance. Stolithk destroyed everything in his way whil sobbing. And Feldosia knew she had to act. She picked up her vibroblade and raged in Dark Gyronic mode; the dark rage would hopefully protect her from his influence.

Her head-on charge hit Stolithik back a lot. Stolithk got up and fired multiple times at her, with essence-induced poisonous attacks. Feldosia absorbed them nd fired blasts of her own. They were both ignoring the massive damage they were being dealt, both focusing on destroying the other; one blinded by sadness, the other by rage. Feldosia was out of control completely, lacking the ability to think for herself. Her soul and mind were deteriorating too fast. Kolossus' influence on her from was taking over too fast.

Stolthik - Oh my...

Stolithik read into Feldosia's life. Her tears. Her pain. The time when she was taken as a child and literally scarred...Stolithk looked at the scar on the back of her neck.

Stolithk - ''That scar...it's the branding of the Blyro'Tralzorca, isn't it? The modern Blyro'Tralzorca?'' Feldosia - Do...not mention that...

Stolithik began to sob as he looked into her story. She had been taken and branded, made part-Dark Gyronic. And when Kolossus corrupted her, he exploited it to his full potential. This branding lit up, and the scar grew. It had been growing until eventually all of her individuality would be gone. She would have no soul left, and be nothing but a killer, just like Genrai Nal. As she had betrayed the Vyro'Ralza, should would be branded a Nal. Feldosia Nal...

Stolithik - ''And what you had to suffer in the Ottzello Wars...the husband who you could never have...my GOD!! DEVOURER, IT IS JUST TOO SAD!!!! SHU'ULATHOI, GIVE ME THE STRENGTH TO KILL HER, I HAVE NONE!!!''

Feldosia's scar grew larger than ever. It lit up, and she grew into a beast too powerful. She was almost one of them. But she didn't think anything of it, and grabbed Stolithik by the throat. She punched him, beat him, and eventually slaughtered him. She ripped his head off, and all the other demons in the vacinity vanished, amidst cries. The rest of the demon forces all turned on Feldosia, but to her salvation, Sollow arrived out of nowhere and killed them. Nearby, Yogtam also landed, and ran over to the howling beast that Feldosia had become, then turned to Sollow.

Yogtam - ''Sollow, we've seen you on our scanners. What have you been doing here?'' Sollow - Falrik ordered me to find and kill the Champion...he had worked out what the Chosen would be doing, and knew that you had no defences in place, so he sent me...he sent Genrai in position to look for another world in which Stolithik may have been situated... Yogtam - ''And I guess Feldosia killed Stolithik before you could. Poor girl...we need to contain her...'' Sollow - No. If my friend Genrai is right, at this point, she is beyond saving. Yogtam - ''Genrai didn't have Tuolog or the Ioketa. We can save her.'' Sollow - By this point, the only salvation possible is death.

Sollow threw his blade at Feldosia's head going straight threw her brain. The damage she had sustained already meant that Feldosia could take no more. Yogtam fell to his knees.

Yogtam - ''NO!!! NOT AGAIN!!!'' Sollow - ''Ironic. Both of the couple have fallen to my blade...''

Yogtam growled, looked at the floor, and then clutched his fist. He got up, and roared at Sollow. He pulled out his vibroblade and cut Sollow up many times, only for Sollow to heal. Sollow grabbed Yogtam's arm, and twisted it until it was broken.

Yogtam - ''BASTARD!!! YOU...FUCKING...''

Falrik Zaarkhun, at that moment, appeared on hologram.

Yogtam - You Consorium fuckers...our alliance is terminated! Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Really? Why? We did you a favour, there. We were about to save your planet, which we knew you'd doomed when you left it unguarded. Genrai and I worked out what the Chosen were up to while you didn't.'' Yogtam - You didn't have to kill her...! Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Oh, but we did. You see, Genrai's father had the same branding. When it gets to that level, you know that you are beyond saving. If you'd tried to keep her, Kolossus' influence would only grow, like it has been in the past few years. And it would get worse...until she would be lost. She would be a thorn in your side.'' Yogtam - We could have found a way... Falrik Zaarkhun - ''How do you know that? You don't. At this point, my friend, you need all the help you can get if you want to win this. I know you won't like it. Volim reminds me at several times that he doesn't. But we have to.''

Yogtam growled and after a silence, nodded.

Yogtam - ''Fine. But I want Sollow dead when this is over!''

Endless Rage
As Baptarion had predicted, the final Chosen fleet launched an attack on the Kicath. Nu appeared appreensive while Sarec sighed.

Baptarion - ''I just received word that the Chosen fleet around the Kicath capital of Anatezc'ji-0 is attacking. I'm trying to contact the one in charge but no one is replying.'' Nu - Goddamit. Baptarion - Nu, who is your leader exactly? Nu - ''Our leader? I guess it would be Kithworto.'' Baptarion - I recognize that name from somewhere...anyway, we should go now and assist him before the Chosen cause anymore damage. Sarec - ''Right. I suppose that makes sense.'' Genrai Nal - ''Kithworto? I have heard many stories about him. Apparently he is a formidable foe. I would enjoy facing him in battle one day.'' Tyraz - Kithworto is your leader?!

At that point, UNO got on chat.

Tyraz - ''He's a asshole! An unpredictable, and very dangerous asshole!'' Baptarion - ''Ah, Ottzelloans. Good timing. How was the defense of Grenzaar?'' Sarec - Dangerous and very powerful. Nu - ''Now isn't the time. We've got to get to Anatézc before Kithworto raises the planet to the ground.'' Kralgon Emperor - ''All right, we'll offer some support. But not much. We're preparing our next leader, Valzaria.'' Baptarion - You're right...let's not waste time.

Everyone made their way to the planet.

Everyone landed, the Chosen attacking in a similar pattern to Praetoria. Sarec cracked his knuckles and checked his gauntled-mounted chain weapon.

Nu - Welcome to Kicath territory, boyos. Saerc - *comms* ''Have soldiers and inquisitors spread across the planet. We'll lure the assault's leader.'' Zr'Ahgloth - unocs busy fitin elsewher an da tralkik commanda an yogtams busy lookin afta da yunglin

Large humanoid bat-like demons flew around the group and landed, their distorted faces making some of the group uneasy.

Zr'Ahgloth - fukin hell.. Hachi - EWW WHAT THE HELL ARE THOSE?! Nu - Alright who opened the test-errm....big demon.

Sarec identified the demons as being Balanar.

Sarec - They feed on fear so watch yourselves. Balanar - You look juicy...juicy souls for us to feed from... Sollow - Hahahaha...this will be interesting...

Hachi looked irritated.

Hachi - ''Juicy?! Don't ever call me juicy!'' Nu - Get off my planet you ugly motherfucker!

Sollow threw his knifes, hitting Balanar in the faces. The demons got the knives out and roared. One of them grew in size and charged at Nu, clawing his armor. Sarec primed his harpoon and fired it at the Balanar. When it latched on he fired an electric current through the chain which arced to severel Balanar. Meanwhile, Nu ffell over as his armor was torn.

Nu - Grrr...

Nu pulled out his minigun and fired.> Genrai Nal cloaked and then appeared behind the Balanar, and sliced away. Sollow did the same. Zr'Ahgloth, with Tuolog on his back, charged had-on. The Balanar on Nu was eventually killed. The others all let out ear-piercing screeches as they charged at the group.

Zr'Ahgloth - fuk ma eers Sarec - I'm wearing sonic dampeners and that is still discomforting. Nu - Grrrr...Go back to hell!

Sarec pulled out a fusion pistol and fired into the sky, while Nu fired his minigun again. One of the Balanar grew in size until it was as large as Zr'Ahgloth and clawed him. Another launched a blast of entropic energy which engulfed and paralyzed Sarec in place. Zr'Ahgloth grunted, then punched the Balanar three times in the face, and then ripped its head off. Sollow ran around, stabbing several Balanar right in the head, while Genrai more Balanar.

Sarec - Okay this is bad.

Hachi fired his pistol at the Balanar, before then throwing balls of Dream Energy at them, while Nu pulled out a precision rifle and gunned down numerous Balanar. Several of them died, the one surviving jumped on Sarec and tried to devour his soul. Sarec roared, still struggling to move, but Nu came to his rescue, holding his rifle the other way and clubbing the Balanar off Sarec.

Balanar - ''Gagh! You're next in line!''

The Balanar tackled Nu, who wrestled the it attempting to rip its head off. Sarec focused in order to break through the paralysis. he could feel it slowly wearing off. The Balanar fought back, clawing Nu repeatedly.

Nu - Oi-give-me-a-hand-here!

Feeling his arm again, Sarec moved it and fired a harpoon in such a way that it impaled in the Balanar without harming Nu.

Nu - I didn't need your help, you know!

The Balanar felt the harpoon and screamed, stopping his attack. Sarec smirked as he yanked the harpoon and the Balanar away. The demon fell down, lifeless, his body dissolving away. In the distance, a skyscraper collapsed to the ground.

Sarec - You can thank me later.

As Sarec turned to the co collasping skyscraper, a red spark in the sky could be seen followed by hundreds of Balanar. A raspy, commanding voice could be heard among the demons.

??? - ''Don't let him get away! His soul is too valuable!'' Arkarixus - What is that thing? Sarec - I'm guessing that's Kithworto. Nu - ''Oh boy. Here we go.'' Tyraz - Yep, this would be Kithworto...

As Kithworto got closer he lets out a shockwave which eradicates the Balanar...as well as half the landscape.

Sarec - And he appears to eb in his "omega" state. Volim - Woah...not bad. Nu - Nope, that's just him normally. Sarec - Apparently our field notes on him are out-dated.

Kithworto crashed next to the team in a giant rocky heap.

Sollow - Hmph...he is mortal all the same.. Tyraz - Yeah, Sollow..."mortal"... Sarec - Don't let him hear you say that.

Volim took his distance while Arkarixus simply watched silently. Nu held his hand in which Kithworto held himself up upon.

Kithworto - ''Agh. Whatever those things are, they're fucking annoying.'' Nu - ''Good thing you cleared the civilians out. You'd kill more of them then the Chosen would.'' Hachi - ''Don't worry, Mr. Kicath! I'll get rid of them for ya!''

Several hordes of Malcaeum spawned around Kithworto.

Malcaeum - ''RAGE! FEED!'' Sarec - ''Shit. Kithworto.... I highly recommend you keep your anger under control...'' Zr'Ahgloth - woah man yor weird Kithworto - ''Hm. I've had worse than this.''

Zr'Ahgloth charged through many and cracked their heads. Sarec swing his chain to decimate the demons, while the Malcaeum ganged up on Zr'Ahgloth, stabbing, biting and clawing him.

Sarec - They feed of anger and get empowered by it, and we all know what you are like.

Tyraz rushed over, partially entering his Demon Form as he does so, while Kithworto grabbed a Malcaeum and reduced it to ash with essence. Sarec continued to swing his chain, the monomolecular-edged hooks attached to it tearing through several Malcaeum On a distance, was seen flying alongside a large group of Raviegaurii demons.

Kithworto - ''C'mon! I got enough energy to kill all of you!'' Arberkul - Concentrate on the purple one!

The group quickly took notice of the champion.

Arberkul - ''You lot? Get out of my way, I have come to claim the soul of the Xi'Arazulha!'' Hachi - Xi-what now? Kithworto - Oh, not this again. Sarec - Not on my watch!

Arberkul disappeared, and the Raviegaurii launched blasts of entropy at Sarec's direction. Nu fired at the Raviegaurii as they charged towards the group. Sarec inhaled, his skin toughened and he shielded hismelf with his arms as he weathered the blasts. Electricity sparks in his hands and he unleaches two arcs into the group of Ravieguarii. As the Raviegaurii were taken down, Arberkul appears behind Kithworto and stabbed his blade through his chest, him simply stumbling slighty as he bended.

Nu - You bastards better get off my planet! Arberkul - Give me your soul!

Kithworto turned around and pulled the blade out of his chest, and then blasted Arberkul with explosive force, making him crash into a distant skyscraper. Arberkul got out of the debris, raored and charged into Kithworto's direction again.

Arberkul - Your soul belongs to the Legion! Kithworto - C'mon, you giant bird.

Arkarixus locked Arberkul in midair again, allowing Sarec's harpoon to hit him.

Demon Tyraz - *watches Kithworto and stretches out his arm* ''Go...Omega...Finish the deed! Volim - ''Hey he seems tired. Fire the big powers at him and get this over with.''

Kithworto began to feel irritated that his fight began to get interrupted. Tuolog froze Arberkul in time, infused Sollow with Gyronic casuing, Sllow to have a major attack speed that caused huge damage to Arberkul. Arberkul screamed and fell on the ground, groaning silently. Zr'Ahgloth shouted with glee, and stomped on Arberkul. Genrai then teleported next to Arberkul and stabbed him in the chest.

Sarec - ''Why don't you have the honours kithworto. Let him have it. Kithworto - ''If you're not going to get out of my way then i'll be sending more than one to hell today. Arberkul - ''The only one going to hell...is you!

Arberkul began to grow in size and become more and more demonic in look.

Tuolog - Ascended Champion form... Sarec - We had our chance and you thugs blew it! Sollow - Please...do not tell me you are blaming me for this...I merely assisted... Demon Tyraz - ''I said...finish the deed, Kicath! Finish the deed!'' Arkarixus - Stop fighting among yourselves you primitive idiots. Sarec - ''The Kormacvar is right. Right now our problems jsut got a whole lot worse.''

Arberkul blasted all the group away with a shockwave of entropic energy, except for Kithworto who remained static.

Nu - ''On second thought, get behind that barrier. I'll come hide as well.''

The group started to hide behind an energy barrier located nearby.

Kithworto - You say that my souls belongs to the Legion... Arberkul - ''You have an allied god's blood running through your veins. You should be at our side!'' Kithworto - Perhaps you shall have a taste on how well I belong. Demon Tyraz - Finish the deed, Kicath...finish the deed... Kithworto - ''C'mon, you Legion lackey. Show me what you've got.''

Arberkul started to gather energy on his mouth and tried to devour Kithworto's soul. However, Kithworto simply laughed, unaffected, and walked toward the champion.

Arberkul - Huh?!...Why are you still standing?!

Kithworto grabbed Arberkul by the throat and lowered him to his level. Arberkul growled loudly and tried to devour Kithworto's soul again, without success. Kithworto turned into the Omega State smoothly as he grew in height. Sarec smirked as he sat in meditation. Everyone behind the barreir could feel a calming presence radiating from him.

Arberkul - ''You waste so much power with this attitude. You should give up, serve us! Serve US!'' Omega Kithworto - Are you afraid? Arberkul - I feel no emotion but anger! Omega Kithworto - Then let me introduce to you the concept of fear.

The rocks and buildings start cracking and rise as Kithworto's power started to engulf the area. Tyraz started to cackle as he watched the carnage. With suble gestures, Sarec invited Hachi to join him.

Omega Kithworto - ''There is a reason why I am not on that team. A clear one.''

Arberkul attacked Kithworto repeatedly, trying to free himself. Kithworto did not even flinch.

Nu - Well this is going to hurt. Omega Kithworto - Care to guess? Arberkul - You are a disgrace to your kind! Omega Kithworto - Correct.

The entire area goes up in a reddish light as the buildings in the immediate area are reduced to ash. Volim, Genrai Nal an dZr'Ahgloth all shield their eyes, while Arkarixus remained watching with a blank expression. As the light reduces, the entire landscape to the horizon has been flattened, and Arberkul is nothing but ash. Only Kithworto and the team remain, as well as a small fragment of barrier.

Volim - Woah...he turned the guy into ash. Sarec - *mutters* Only bliss remains... Nu - You...you just destroyed my house?!

Kithworto shrugged his shoulders as his body returned to normal. Tyraz reverted back to his normal form and he let out a long sigh. Nu looked out over everywhere as the remaining Chosen forces on the planet retreated.

Nu - ''You flattened the entire area. Good work.'' Arkarixus - ''This was a bad strategy. You harmed your capital to deal with an already weakened enemy.'' Sarec - What is life without challenging ideas? Kithworto - Are you going to question my methods, Kormacvar?

Kithworto went face-to-face with Arkarixus, who did not show any fear from the Kicath.

Arkarixus - ''I question the methods of every single species in this so called "modern" era. I will not make an exception of yours.'' Sarec - Arkarixus my people have a saying; if something works then its only purpose is to be refined. Kithworto - ''Hmph. At least I didn't let my race die.'' Arkarixus - ''I was not responsable for my race's extinction. You, on the other hand, is a threat to yours.'' Kithworto - ...

Kithworto disappeared in a violent essence explosion. Arkarixus remained indifferent.

Arkarixus - If we were on the same spaceship I would throw him out of the nearest airlock. Sarec - Again with the airlocks. Nu - ''Last time he got thrown into space he spent an eternity dealing with the Xhodocto. I seriously doubt that would harm him the least.'' Sarec - ''My position grants me certain freedoms, ancient. And one of those freedoms is that I do not have to swallow your every word like a lap-dog.'' Arkarixus - I do not care for your position, it means nothing to me. Sarec - ''Perhaps not. But it is something of a habit.''

Arkarixus looked around.

Arkarixus - ''Our work here is done anyway. We should report back to the Indoctrinate Collective to inform them all Chosen fleets are defeated.'' Hachi - Ooh, ooh, can I do that? Volim - ''Do what? Dance around and get blasted away? Because that's all I saw you doing.'' Hachi - I tried my best! Volim - Beh, I don't even know what you are, but I bet the rest of your race isn't that useful either. Hachi - Ouch...

Hachi looked down, saddened.

Nu - ''Hmph. Not sure whether I should continue with you or help rebuilding the immediate area.'' Arkarixus - ''Rebuild. Did you not say your house was here?'' Sarec - Rebuild seems like the right word. Nu - Hm.

Nu gave an acknowledgement to everyone and walked off. The whole group disbanded and went back to their ships. All the champions were defeated...

=The Next Scourge=

Second-In-Command
Two days after the invasions of the Chosen champions were dealt with, the forces of Order once again united to discuss.

Baptarion - All Chosen attacks were repelled...Good work, everyone. Hachi - ''Yay! I did a good job!'' Falrik Zaarkhun - You are all such idiots...

Falrik shook his head.

Falrik Zaarkhun - Do you seriously think that that was all they had? Sarec - This isn't over yet. Nu - ''Building is almost finished on our world. Next time I'll inform Kithworto not to flatten everything.'' Sarec - Why do I have the irritating suspicion this was a distraction? Baptarion - Distraction for what exactly? Falrik Zaarkhun - For once, Sarec, I agree with you. Tuolog - ''Chosen not sent everyone just yet. I sure they have something else up their sleeve.'' Nu - Heck, if that was a distraction then I might as well call up Kithworto now. Sarec - ''They attacked our planets in series. Surely a true assault would have done so simoultaneously?''

The group pondered for a while.

Genrai Nal - ''If Murangon Nal is anything like I am, I am very sure he is preparing his next surprise attack. As for the rest, I have little memory.'' Baptarion - I have to apologize for not being able of helping, I remained on the Collective capital studying the Chosen's attack patterns and...wait a minute.

Baptarion inspected his screen.

Baptarion - Something ain't right. Hachi - ''Wait, whaa? What do you mean?''

Sarec closed his eyes and sighed, expecting soeething nasty. Fre'kloar popped up on the screen.

Fre'kloar - ''ooh. soz dat was me'' Rel'larutina - ''Hey, sorry we couldn't help you guys out. The Loron were busy on a miniature golf course which lasted 6 weeks...'' Nu - ''Let me guess. They couldn't find the holes?'' Hachi - ''Huh. Trust Loron with golf.'' Fre'kloar - SHUT UP MAN DA WHOLES WERE TINY AN WE LOBBED BALLS IN DEM LIEK WE DID WIV YA MOM...wait wat Baptarion - ''My scanners say the Chosen entered the Kurithora system...wait a minute...they are here! They are attacking Kurithora!''

An explosion was seen, and Baptarion's screen turned static. Falrik Zaarkhun lay back and chuckled.

Nu - Kurithora? Hachi - ''Kurithora...? Wait a minute...'' Vekaron - The capital of the Collective in Borealis? Falrik Zaarhun - Once again, I love it when I'm right. Sarec - Sounds like it. Hachi - ''Yes! That's it!...Oh shit!''

Sarec slammed his fist on his chair.

Sarec - I knew it! Nu - Wait, haven't we killed all the champions? Hachi - ''I dunno! I'm not an expert on Chosen! Wait, maybe I am!'' Tuolog - ''Champions, yes. Chosen have more than champions...''

On the static, an image of a purple, dragon-like creature with blood red eyes briefly appeared before disappearing again. Arsac flinched for a moment.

Hachi - What the FUCK WAS THAT?! Fre'kloar - fukin ugli fella Nu - Looked like Kithworto slightly. Arsac - You... Vekaron - If the Collective is under attack then we must go now! Hachi - ''Come on guys! We gotta go now! My house is there!'' Falrik Zaarkhun - Woah, woah, woah, hold up.

Falrik breathed smoke.

Vekaron - What the hell do you want now? Falrik Zaarkhun - Are you seriously suggesting we all go to defend the Collective? Hachi - ''Uhh yeah! I live there!'' Arsac - *she regained composure* The Corruptus are up to something and extragalctics are the only ones with the technology to pass their blockade. Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Well I have a question. Why should I care for their cause? They've done nothing for me! If they do me no favours, they'll get none in return. You better have a good reason for the Consortium Network to help.''

The group looked at Zaarkhun with disrespect.

Vekaron - ''If you don't want to help, then leave. We don't need you.'' Nu - Because if you don't help I'll make sure that you pay for your cowardice. Hachi - ''Hmph, screw you Falrik! I defended your arguements!'' Falrk Zaarkhun - ''Cowardice? If we wanted to, we could provide full support. But I've yet to find a good reason to.'' Arkarixus - ''You're wasting our time, you coward. Zoles, Niaka, move out, we have a planet to defend.''

Arkarixus, Vekaron and Xerkea left the discussion. Hachi put up a middle finger and left as well. Nu sticked his tougue out to Zaarkhun and left right after.

Arsac - There is more to existance than coin, thugs. Falrik Zaarkhun - ...

Falrik knew that Arsac had a point, and left.

As the group landed on Kurithora, the Chosen was attacking with a considerably larger force than in the other worlds. The government palace where Baptarion was located was in ruins. Hachi looked around with a horrified look.

Nu - Someone go find him. Yogtam - I hope he's all right... Sarec - And I thought the Chosen's assault on Praetoria was bad... Hachi - Bap!

Sarec accompanied Hachiman, ready to defend him as they ran through the ruins. Malcaeum demons inspected the debris, sniffing around.

Malcaeum - I smell flesh...FRESH FLESH! Nu - ''Ah shut up. I've killed hundreds of you before.'' Hachi - How dare you!

Hachi weakly launched a ball of Dream Energy, while Sarec arced lighting between his fingers. One of the Malcaeum looked at Hachi and laughed. At that moment, UNOC arrived.

Vailisa - ''I smell demon...PUNY DEMON! THIS FIST SMASH!!!''

Vailisa's arms crushed many of the Malcaem. Sarec electrocuted the laughing Malcaeum, who was killed. The other demons all jumped on Vailisa and stabbed him. The laughing Malcaeum was killed by the electricity. Meanwhile, Nu fired at the demons with his minigun.

Hachi - Urgh...I've used too much!

Dalverat used his energy on Vailisa, shocking them all, and pushing them off.

Thr'aloy - ''Preparng to engage demonic foes. YOO DUM MUTHAFUKAS ENT MESSIN WIV DA INDOCS''

Xerkea blasted the Malcaeum away while moving some debris away. Sarec pulled out a pair of fusion pistols and fired volleys at the Malcaeum.

Xerkea - I found him! Hachi - *runs over to Xerkea* ''Bap! Baptarion!'' Nu - ''This is unfair. You should at least run quicker.''

Baptarion was unconscious and heavily hurt. The Malcaeum were all defeated. Hachi leaned down near him and looked over him.

Hachi - ''Crap...Bap! Baptarion! Get up dammit!'' Sarec - ''Stay with us Baptarion... His heart is faint but he's alive...'' Hachi - ''He'd better be! If he dies, I'll kill him!''

Baptarion slowly woke up, trying to get up but couldn't. Tuolog ran over to Baptarion, and sat down by him. He began chanting, and healion Baptarion wih Essence.

Fre'kloar - man im a loron an i kno dats illogical...fukin retard Baptarion - Ugh...they arrived by surprise...with an enormous flagship... Hachi - Agh...Baptarion, is the lab still around? Thr'aloy - ''Status report. How much of this planet's defences remains?'' Baptarion - The laboratory is in ruins...and the defenses were all taken down.

The skies turned red as an enormous dreadnought descended into the city, with waves of demons falling out of it.

Baptarion - That's the one leading the attack. Sarec - *lifts his pistols* We have more company. Yogtam - Well that can't be good.. Nu - *Startled* Dalnyur that is a big ship. Vaktyl - ''Well, boys! Let's blow this joint!'' Sarec - The Imperium has shiips in orbit, they can fire on that thing under command.

Nu pulled out his Juggernaut Cannon while Vaktyl prepared his weapons. A red flash was seen, and a large red creature fell next to the group. It was an Auatorom who emitted a red aura around him. Sarec aimed his pistols.

??? - Found you. Hachi - ''Huh? Who the hell are you?'' Sarec - He's more powerful than any of the champions, I know that.

The creature looked at the group with a sight of superiority.

??? - I am Nai-Ar'natl, second-in-command of the Devourer's Chosen. Nu - ''Second? C'mon, I want a challenge.'' Sarec - Good enough for me, tell Geltastra we're coming for her. Hachi - ''Nai'wut? Anyway, I recommend you get your ass out of here before I blow you to smithereens!'' Dalverat - ''Hmph. Another foe to destroy.''

The group prepared themselves for combat.

Nai-Ar'natl - ''I will be brief and clear. Give me the Radeon and the human and I will only destroy half of the planet.'' Nu - Hm that sounds reasonabl--- No! Tuolog - Why you want them...? Nai-Ar'natl - That does not concern you. Sarec - Oh I think it does! Hachi - Unless you have babes planned, I ain't comin along!

Nu charged his cannon up.

Nu - Do you think a nuclear blast's worth of energy's gonna change your mind? Nai-Ar'natl - ''Hmpf. Give me your best shot.'' Vaktyl - ''Well I ain't sitting around chattin'. Let's blow shit up!''

Vaktyl aimed his chaingun, and fired rapidly, switching to plasma shots. A shield of pure entropy surrounded Nai-Ar'natl and shielded him from all the attacks. Nu charged up his cannon to peak power.

Nai-Ar'natl - If you want to be added to the Great Feast then so be it. Sarec - Looks like we need to switch up...

Nai-Ar'natl waved his hand up, rocks levitating into the air, and then launched them at the group, one of them smashing Nu's cannon. Dalverat tried to drain Nai-Ar'natl's energy from the shield, and Vailisa charged forward, punching him, but the Acolyte drained Dalverat's power instead, choking him, while his shield endured Vaisila's attacks. Seeing the rocks fly, Sarec clenched his fist and a barrier of rocks emerged from the gorund to absorb the impacts.

Hachi - What do you want with me and Baptarion?! Nai-Ar'natl - The Herald demands you.

Nu up towards Nai-Ar'natl and punches him around the face continuously, but the shield kept enduring. The acolyte grabbed Nu by the neck and threw him aside. Tuolog healed Dalverat up, while Kalcedia began to fire sniper attacks, and Darwishi bombed Nai-Ar'natl. Electricity sparked from Sarec's hand and he threw bolts of it at Nai-Ar'natl. Nu charged shield energy in his fist and smacked Nai-Ar'natl in the back of the head.

Sarec - Tell the herald they need to find different neophytes! Thr'aloy - ''Change of tactics required. HOW DA FUK DO WE KILL DIS GEEZA''

Nai-Ar'natl's shield shattered, but was still up. He blasted Nu away with essence, then ran into Hachi's direction. Hachi quickly threw several balls of Dream Energy towards Nai-Ar'natl's direction, making his shield go unstable with the conflicting essences. The blasted Nu went through a nearby destroyed wall.

Nai-Ar'natl - Grrr...damned Thoi Themek.

Sarec threw a pulse of elemental energy at Nai-Ar'natl, while Hachi threw another ball of dream energy, though he was beginning to tire.

Nu - We're all lucky that i'm a giant walking robot. Sarec - ''That's it! Soemone cover me!''

Nai-Ar'natl's shield shattered more as Hachi attacked. The acolyte got close and grabbed him by the neck.

Nai-Ar'natl - You're coming with me. Hachi - ''Urgh! A-A l-little h-help...'' Sarec - NO!

Sarec threw an elemntal pulse at Nai-Ar'natl's hand, making him let go of Hachi. Nai-Ar'natl looked at Sarec, angered.

Nai-Ar'natl - You interrupt? Sarec - Got problem? Tuolog - I have idea.

Tuolog fused his powers with Dalverats, and infused everyone's attacks with Dark Gyronic, making them stronger but also more capable of fighting. Nai-Ar'natl teleported to Sarec's front and smacked him into the ground, then started to stomp him repeatedly.

Nu - Now this cannot be fair for anyone.

Sarec weathered the stomping cut he could feel his armour cracking and his bones breaking. He concentrated and crated a psychic blast to throw Nai-Ar off. Nu rushed up to the acolyte and tackled him out of the way as well. Vaktyl, Darwishi and Kalcedia fired with theri Essence-infused attacks, causing damage. Lupercal arrived, zooming around and firing heavy Gyronic attacks at Nai-Ar'natl. All the essence attacks caused Nai-Ar'natl's shield to finally break, leaving him exposed.

Nai-Ar'natl - Damnation. Hachi - ''I said....Go. Away!''

Hachi ran towards Nai-Ar'natl with Dream Energy in his hands. Meanwhile, Nu and the acolyte wrestled, beating each other continuously. Nai-Ar'natl endured Nu's attacks, with Nu's armor taking most of the blows as he attacked harder and faster.

Nu - THIS IS WHY YOU DON'T FIGHT AGENTS YOU IDIOT. Nai-Ar'natl -'' Are you trying to intimidate me, little Kicath? Because you are failing.''

Sarec's lightning arcs largerned as he growled audiably. With a roar he sent to large arcs of electricity straight at Nai-Ar. Hachi tripped as he ran and ends up throwing the balls of Dream Energy, one missing Nai-Ar'natl. Vailisa, now enfused with Dark Gyronic, charged and dealt huge blows as he punched Nai'Ar'natl.

Sarec - ''REPENT. OR. DIE!''

Nai-Ar'natl stumbled and grunted, trying to get room while blasted everyone with entropy. Nu stumbled back as his armour takes in the entropy. Hachi was sent flying to next to Baptarion.

Hachi - Agh...Damn...

Sarec weathered the entropic blasts as the ground around him was blasted into craters. He felt weakened and eventually stopped, almost collapsing ot the ground

Nai-Ar'natl - I grow tired of you, oversized infidel.

Nai-Ar'natl formed large lassos of entropy on his hands which he used to immobilize and heavily damage Vailisa. Vailisa fell, and as Nai-Ar'natl was about to kill Vailisa, a dropship arrived. Sollow and Genrai were aboard. They began to attack Nai, and damaged him enough to get him off.

Sollow - I must thank you for giving us a reason to join this battle... Vekaron - And what is that reason?

Sollow and Genrai joined the fight alongsie the Rogue Boyz, with Torrent following shortly.

Sarec - *muters* About skraving time. Sollow - Arsac gave Zaarkhun one...and your high-paying cheque you sent us did too.. Hachi - Huh? Yogtam - ''Wait. You guys sent the BCN a cheque?'' Vekaron - Nope...none of us did. Sollow - If not you...then who was the mysterious figure who sent one?...it matter not...we fight now and talk later... Nai-Ar'natl - ''More of you. I am tired of these interruptions. I'm not going without the human and the Radeon.''

Nai-Ar'natl whiped his lassos at Hachi's direction. He groaned and slammed the lasso with a swipe of Dream Energy, which damaged both the lasso and the acolyte.

Hachi - You aren't getting Baptarion...and you aren't getting me! Nai-Ar'natl - ''You're not stopping me. You're just an infant with a power you cannot control.'' Hachi - You take that back! Nai-Ar'natl - I will take YOU back to the Dark Apostle. Hachi - ''Dark Apostle? Hmph! Make me!''

Nai-Ar'natl charged at Hachi and punched him into the ground. He let out a loud squeak and coughed up a little blood.

Nai-Ar'natl - ''I do not know why the Herald wants you. But he does, and that's what matters.'' Hachi - Urgh...screw your Herald!

Before Nai-Ar'natl could grab Hachi, Arkarixus charged at him, launching him into a wall. The two fought until Nai-Ar'natl blasted Arkarixus away with essence.

Arkarixus - ''Your energy counters his. Use it against him!'' Hachi - I'll...help you...*tries standing but coughs up a little more blood* Agh...well, there goes my other kidney...

Vekaron and Xerkea also helped, dueling with the Acolyte. Arkarixus grabbed him and threw him against the floor, leaving him pinned.

Arkarixus - Attack him now! Nai-Ar'natl - Let go of me, infidel!

Hachi placed his hands together and, while struggling, began to create a growing ball of Dream Energy, before leaping into the air and throwing it towards Nai-Ar'natl. The ball hit and exploded on the acolyte, making him shout. Arkarixus got out of him, and the Acolyte tried to stand up, only to fall again. Hachi walked to him slowly his hands bruised while still trying to make Dream Energy.

Arkarixus - ...Acceptable. Hachi - I said...get off...this planet...

Baptarion finally got back on his feet, and patted Hachi in the shouder.

Baptarion - ''Don't waste any more energy, Hachi. He's down.'' Hachi - ''Urgh...f-fine...if you i-insist... Agh! I w-wish Teacher was here...'' Baptarion - ''I should have expected this to happen. It was way too unusual they would just ignore the Collective.'' Tuolog - I predict they make move like this. Sarec - And you did not tell us? Vekaron - Yeah, why not tell us? Tuolog - ''One, I thought you figure it out for yourselves. And two, I not allowed to tell you future.'' Baptarion - Huh...I guess that's fair enough. Sarec - In the inquisition's defence, our only knowledge of the Chosen comes from the Collective.

Arkarixus concentrated for a second, before turning back to the group.

Arkarixus - ''There's something wrong here. I can still feel a very powerful presence in this area, yet we took the Auatorom down.'' Baptarion - ''Hachiman, you okay? You look like you got beaten up badly.'' Hachi - ...I n-need a bath...

At this moment, Arsac beamed down and approached the group. Sarec bowed.

Arsac - I have my strong suspicions. Sarec - Mistress. Fre'kloar - ''hmph. dese geezas is losas.'' Nai-Ar'natl - ...That's because I am not yet done.

Wrath of the Acolyte
Nai-Ar'natl slowly got back on his feet.

Nu - What the--? Thr'aloy - ''Prepare to engage. DAFUQ'' Hachi - ...Aww shit... Arsac - I see where this is going... Nai-Ar'natl - You irritated me for too long...*he started to grow in size* and I am tired of playing games... Nu - ''C'mon, I punched you to shit! Get the fuck down there!''

Nai-Ar'natl was engulfed in energy and grew more in size until he finally reached his full demon form.

Nai-Ar'natl - Now you feel...the wrath of gods. Fre'kloar - MAN I SHULDA BROUGHT MA BOYZ Hachi - Well, I think it's safe to s-say...we're fucked.

Arsac -lowered her head as she felt unsettled, Sarec ran to cover her. Fre'kloar threw a snare, and the Warbosses landed.

Ray'loth - TIME TA FITE

Nai-Ar'natl waved his hands, and ghostly images of the Chosen Champions appeared, hovering around him.

Sarec - 'Remmeber the ITN is ready to call orbital fire at any time!'' Baptarion - ''And blow us all to oblivion? Thank you but no.'' Nai-Ar'natl - The powers of the Champions...I have all of them under my grasp. Sarec - This was their plan... Hachi - Grr...

Hachi attempted to channel his energy, but Nai-Ar'natl kicked him into a wall.

Sarec - My suggestion is looking very enticing right about know.

Vailisa roared, and punched Nai. The acolyte endured the shot and then blasted Vailisa with a purple beam, causing him to become saddened and depressed. Hachi spat out blood as he impacted, and he struggled getting back up. The acolyte's mere presence burned those around him. Nu fired his minigun, but the giant demon endured the shots.

Hachi - Agh...Yep...t-that was d-definitely an o-organ...

Xerkea fired at Nai-Ar'natl, but was also hit by a beam, which caused her to fall down and start crying. Arsac held her head and she muttered something under her breath.

Arsac - I need an evac. Xerkea - Aaahh...what the hell!...

Nanotech and Tuolog's help allowed Vailisa to become better. Darwishi, Vaktyl, Lupercal and Kalcedia fired with Essence-induced attacks. Tuolog then ran to help Xerkea. Nai-Ar'natl grunted with the attacks and fired a wave of entropy that caused all of UNOC to become blinded in anger. Sarec charged lightning in his hand and threw it at Nai-ar as he struggled to help Arsac leave the field.

Hachi - ou a-aren't g-getting me a-alive...! Nai-Ar'natl - Your emotions are toys to me. Vaktyl - Damn man...I'M GONNA BLAST YOUR TO FUCKING SMITHEREENS!!!

Nai-Ar'natl slammed Nu against the ground with a punch., leaving him unconscious as he was embedded in the ground.

Sarec - *taps his communicator* Requesting Immediate medivac. Arsac - No. I think-- I just need a breather.

All of UNOC, in extreme rage, attacked Nai'Ar'natl. Vaktyl with incredibly rapid fire. Dalverat using huge Essence attacks. Lupercal by charging around and firing. Kalcedia by comnig out and just blasting her rifle everywhere. Thr'aloy and Vailisa by punching hard, and Darwishi by dropping a lot of bombs. Zelfron III was on a crazy. All their attacks were induced with Gyropnic. With UNOC angered, Malcaeum demons were attracted and attacked them. Nai-Ar'natl evaded the attacks as the anger made UNOC less accurate, while blasting both Vekaron and Arkarixus into the ground, making them fall on the ground screaming in pain.

Vekaron - ''Aaaarghh! My head! Torment...in my head!'' Arkarixus - This is...disconforting!

Sarec looked up to the sky to see an AO-8 dropship head to his near-location. Arsac was suddenly struggling, not wanting ot leave the field.

Sarec - Mistres you can't fight under your condition. Arsac - Let me fight them, I will make them all wish they endured the tortures of hell!

Brag'klogga then infused all of the Rogue Warboss' attacks with Dark Gyronic, and fired his own crazy attacks. Zalk'don fired dozens of missiles, Naktor'zak's tank fired huge shots, Voa'reak flew aroudn shooting, Knar'gank aiming for a good hit, while Ray'loth and Drizz'pyrokirk helped UNOC with the Malcaum. Vaktyl focused on the Malceaum, rather than Nai-Ar'natl and Tuolog helped them mentally. Sollow, meanwhile, chuckled, and him and Genrai snuck behind Nai and stabbed constantly, before then going back in hiding. They kept this in a consistent pattern, switching it up so as to keep surprising him. Nai-Ar'natl was hit and wounded, but kept going. He blasted the Warbosses away, making them feel uninterested and sleepy. Sollow and Genrai's regular attacks dealt no damage to the demon.

Nakto'zak - eh...i dunt wnana fite anymor Drizz'pyrokirk - yeh lets go home an watch sum tv Fre'kloar - COM ON LADS

Fre'kloar tossed each of the Loron chocolate bars, and they suddenly wanted to fight again. Hachi threw Dream energy at Nai-Ar'natl, getting his attention.

Nai-Ar'natl - I'm tired of your poking. Sarec - Hachiman! Hachi - Heh...What you g-gonna do...

Hachi struggled to walk, Sarec summoning a wall of solid rock between Nai'ar and him. The acolyte, however, punched through the rock wall and grabbed Hachi. Hachi squeaked and growled.

Nai-Ar'natl - You're coming with me, you wanting or not. Arsac - Hey demon!

Nai-Ar'natl looked at Arsac. As he turned, Arsac it him with a kinetic pulse, making him let go of Hachi.

Arsac - If you want the human, you will have to deal with me! Nai-Ar'natl - ''You're the one the Herald speaks of. He seems interested in you. Perhaps I should take you to him along with the human.''

Arsac cracked a smiled, which quickly disappeared. Vailisa roared, punching Nai-Ar'natl, then picking him up and slaming him on the ground. Nai-Ar'natl blasted Vailisa away, sending him flying through several buildings.

Arsac - Tell your herald that all he will get is my broken body! Nai-Ar'natl - So be it.

Dalverat levitated Vailisa, and put him back next to Nai-Ar'natl. Vailisa punched Nai-Ar'natl in the face and threw him away from Hachi. Arsac used her powers to lift large rocks fro mthe earth and slammed them into Nai-ar's body, but as he approached there was slight hesitation from her. Nai-Ar'natl was knocked back on his feet, ran up to Vailisa and threw him into Dalverat, engulfing both in damaging entropic fire. Tuolog got them out while Vaktyl aimed one shot at Nai-Ar'natl's head, charged it up, and fired. As Nai-Ar'natl moved towards Hachi, Kalcedia, Genrai and Knar'gank came out of hiding, shot, stabbed and beat him, then ran. Nai-Ar'natl was stunned by the essence attacks, the others dealing no damage, Tuolog could feel his energy dimishing slowly.

Hachi - Gah, get...away! Tuolog - ''Hmm. Sarec, you help me?''

Sarec nodded and closed his eyes. He channeled some of his energy into Tuolog. Tuolog felt empowered, and could provide even stronger Essence induction than before.

Nai-Ar'natl - Your resistance will chance nothing, human. Hachi - Heh...I'd rather die! Sarec - You will not touch him again.

As Nai-Ar'ntal was about to reach Hachi, Darwishi and Voa'reak dropped a bomb between them.

Baptarion - Damnit Hachi, run!

Tuolog boosted Hachi's speed by speeding up time. Hachi gasped as he made it outside of the blast, which only made the acolyte flinch. Arkarixus also boosted Tuolog with his psychic energy, while Xerkea and Vekaron kept the Malcaeum occupied.> Arsac continued launching elemental-charged rocks and chunks of building at Nai-Ar'natl, which only mad ehim angrier. Tuolog nodded in thanks to Arkarixus, and then slowed down time on Nai-Ar'natl. The Warbosses and UNOC closed in, with Sllow and Genrai then joining in, causing heavy damage to Nai-Ar'natl. Nai-Ar'natl was hit by all the attacks and was knocked back, falling one knee into the ground. He slowly reverted back to his normal form. Hachi panted and Arsac collapsed to one knee, grunting.

Hachi - Huh...you had enough...b-bug brain? Arsac - I have plans for this one... Nai-Ar'natl - ...My mission is complete.

The group was startled.

Hachi - ''-Whaat...? Complete? Y-You're dyin!''

Nai-Ar'natl let out a deep laugher as he got back on his feet.

Sarec - What? Nai-Ar'natl - You have all fallen into our trap. Hachi - *grunts and falls on his knee* Gah...y-you're really starting to p-piss me off... Arsac - ''.... despise DECEPTION!'' Fre'kloar - wat Nai-Ar'natl - ''The attacks on all these planets. They were all just one big distraction to keep you occupied.'' Sarec - I told you all! Tuolog - As I predict... aktyl - Damn, it's not like we gon' let our planets get destroyed like that.

Nai-Ar'natl walked side to side, with a smug look.

Nai-Ar'natl - The Dark Apostle knew you would try to enter our territory, so she told us to give you some trouble...and you fell right into it. Hachi - That bitch... Arsac - And in all that time you prepared. Nai-Ar'natl - ''Exactly. By now the Rift should be almost complete. All the universe will tremble when it's open.'' Arsac - ''Your plan still failed, the Inquisition was aware something like this would happen. We will be ready for your incursion!'' Nai-Ar'natl - ''And how do you expect to stop us? We have the Herald, the Gyronic shard, everything. You cannot. The Grox cannot. This entire universe cannot stop the next Scourge, that WE will start. Hachi - Impossible...Impossible I say! Arsac - Oh we will.

Xerkea stepped forward.

Xerkea - What the hell is this Rift supposed to be? Nai-Ar'natl - ''A rift to Hell itself. We will merge Borealis and Inferno, demons will swarm through the universe like they did years ago, except this time, they will not the stopped.'' Tuolog - No...you not do that...the Vyro'Narza not let you! Nai-Ar'natl - ''The Vyro'Narza are too busy with Zargoth to do anything to stop us. You have no hope.''

Arsac aimed her pistol at Nai-Ar'natl's face.

Arsac - ''Do you know how many prophets I hav heard that from? Do you know how many heralds of doom this pistol has ended the life of?'' Nai-Ar'natl - ''The prophets you faced were false and weak. The Devourer's Chosen are real, and mean business.''

Nai-Ar'natl disappeared in a black fog while letting out a booming laugher. Hachi gasped as he collaped on the floor.

Hachi - Urgh... Fre'kloar - WAT A WANKA Tuolog - ''Hmm. We go back to ships and discuss next move?'' Arsac - We will be ready. Baptarion - I guess so...lot of rebuilding to do here too... Hachi - Yeah cuz I'm alright down here on the floor!...I think my crotch hit a stone...

The battle was won...but the war was far from over.

Plans of Action
Some time after the invasion, the group met again in a spaceship conference. Baptarion and Hachi were fully healed.

Baptarion - Ah, I love the Collective's medics. Tralkik Commander - That is not good. Arkarixus - ''Not good is an understatement. If the Auatorom is serious, then we are all at danger of extinction.'' Arsac - Which is why we must move quickly. Baptarion - We can't attack now, the Chosen have an advantage.

Hachi stood quiet, keeping himself silent while listening. Falrik Zaarkhun got in the chat.

Falrik Zaarkhun - No...whatever you do, don't attack quickly. Arsac - ''I'm sorry? Have you ever had to deal with doomheralds before?'' Falrik Zaarkhun - ''That's exactly what the Chosen will expect. They fooled you all once, and chances are they will again.'' ekaron - ''They seem very confident about this "herald". I'm guessing it's some kind of super demon. And we got no way of dealing with super demons.'' Hachi - Well...maybe... Arsac - ''We can never be sure. This Herald may be another prophet.'' Falrik Zaarkhun - Yes, we have no way, yet you all suggested to rush in and expect your previous tactics would work.

Nu scratched his head, feeling a little pain.

Nu - ''Agh. Next time don't make me run into a Demon's fist.'' Arsac - They blockaded the sector, that is their first line of defence, we can bypass that. Nu - All I can remember is this great giant fist slamming me into the floor. Baptarion - Yes, but who knows what lies inside the Sector.

Arsac leaned forward and growled.

Arsac - ''So... What are we to do?'' Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Oh, it's all right. Ignore me completely...'' Vekaron - You're yet to say anything other than "you'll all fail". Arsac - If you have something to say Falrik, keep to the details. Falrik Zaarkhun - ''And you're yet to give me a chance to speak... All right. Here's the thing. What if, perhaps, we weren't the only ones who wanted to get rid of the Devourer's Chosen in this galaxy?'' Vekaron - The entire universe wants to get rid of the Chosen. Hachi - Who else do you suggest? Arsac - Are you suggesting the Junction?

Nu held his head.

Nu - You don't mean those things? Falrik Zaarkhun - ''We have plenty...but I suggest someone of power greater than our ow, and in tis galaxy. Also, someone with very high ambitions currently and a plan they do not want to fail...'' Arsac - Falrik, what did I say about detail?

Arkarixus narrowed his eyes.

Arkarixus - ...The Grox. Hachi - Whoa, wait, we're putting GROX on the table?! Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Arkarixus has it. Regnatus would be no happier letting the Devourer's Chosen go about their plan than we are.'' Baptarion - ''Fights between the Grox and the Chosen are not unheard of. Since the Xi'Arazulha invasion, the Grox have defeated Chosen fleets that tried to advance into the Core.'' Nu - ''Heh, why not convince the Xi'Arazulha? ''

Nu laughed mockingly as he wiped blood from his jaw.

Hachi - ''Yes, but...they're GROX! They would simply betray us!'' Arsac - And that is a downside? Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Exactly. Though, I'm not sure just how aware Regnatus is of the Cosen's current progression. Arkarixus, you knew Regnatus; what do you expect? Would he be well aware, would he be invading out of caution all ready? Is there any chance we could spark further conflict between them?'' Arsac - ''Inquisition mandate grants me the authority to conscript any appropriate allies. While the Grox may not accept the mandate itself, I am sure they would consider the nature o fit.'' Falrik Zaarkhun - ''I am not suggesting an alliance. I am suggesting that we let them battle it out, and provoke them, keeping the Chosen preoccupied, and allowing us to grab any means of combating the demons more effectively.'' Arkarixus - ''The Chosen taking over the Cold Relays around their sector means that Regnatus would have lost all vision of the area. I suspect he would send scouts to watch them, then attack with full strenght once he found their headquarters. This is an old but efficient Kormacvar strategy.''

The group pindered.

Arkarixus - ''However, if we let the Grox defeat the Chosen, then Regnatus will obtain a third Gyronic shard. Nu - And what's making you think that Regnatus is the same as you? Arkarixus - Regnatus is a Kormacvar. Arsac - But I am not discarding the possibility of a short-term alliance. Hachi - You mean former Kormacvar. Arsac - He still thinks like one. Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Ah, brilliant! They need to know the Chosen's headquarters. Sarec, you were scouting for artifacts. If you made any progress, you will have found the shard that the Chosen own...which should be on the Chosen's homeworld. Perhaps we could somehow indicate that to the Grox?'' Arkarixus - ''And let the Grox take the shard? No.'' Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Who's saying they will? Who's saying the Chosen can't fight them off first?'' Arsac - ''Hmm.. .What about a diversion?'' Hachi - ''Well, they seem to love me. You could send me out as a diversion.''

Xerkea laughed at Hachi.

Arsac - What if the Grox drew chosen forces from the Chosn's headquarters? Falrik Zaarkhun - ''A diversion? Ah, yes...that could work.'' Arkarixus - The Chosen are rudimentary compared to Regnatus' technology.

Falrik pondered for a second.

Falrik Zaarkhun - Well, Arkarixus, is there any chance we can provoke the Grox just enough to fight them outside the sector, for their Caretakers to rewok the Cold Relays to allow their own access to the homeworld, but the resultant batle would be one where we sneak in and change the tide of battle? Arkarixus - ''That is possible, yes. We just need an opportunity.'' Falrik Zaarkhun - Hmm... Inquisition - Apologies, brother Sarec is in his quarters however he is somewhat unresponsive. Arsac - What do you mean unresponsive? Inquisitor - I mean he's not answering the door.

A new communication window appeared, and a Seagon in military clothing showed up. The group was startled.

Xerkea - Ah, it's you.

Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Ah, greetings Seagon. I've heard of your recent change of ways.'' ??? - I am not here to speak with you, Falrik Zaarkhun. Vekaron - Why is there a Seagon in the chat? Xerkea - I invited him. Vekaron - ...What?! Hachi - Something smells fishy.

Everyone was confused, and looked at Xerkea.

Arsac - Explain, Xerkea. Falrik Zaarkhun - ''I never claimed that you were. I'm sure your people have no desire to speak with the Consortium again. Regardless, I will not interrupt.'' ??? - ''I am Seargent Trastius, current military master of the Seagon. I'm here to inform you that we wish to aid you in your fight against the Chosen.''

The group, after hearing this, became more confortable. Tuolog was expecially content.

Tuolog - ''Ah, the Seagon join our side. Welcome to the fight!'' Arsac - ''That is good. From my last report, Sarec was coming close to pinpointing the site of the Chosen's homeworld.'' Yogtam - Seagon, if you wish to gain support from UNO in any way, just ask. Trastius - If you're looking for an opportunity to strike the Chosen, we have knowledge of something. Fre'kloar - ''DUM DESE MUTHAFUKAS IS BETRAYIN US. FUKIN NOBS MAN''

Falrik Zaarkhun paused his calculation in his mind, intrigued.

Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Knowledge of what? We're interested.''

Trastius showed a galactic map, with a mark on a small star system located next to Chosen territory.

Trastius - ''The Chosen and the Grox have been fighting over a planet in this system for at least a week. The Grox usually don't fight this much for the same target unless there's something important involved.'' Arkarixus - ''The coordinates...they are familiar to me. I'm not sure what, but this planet relates to the Kormacvar.'' Hachi - Wouldn't it be fun if it was...gah, my memory's playin up. Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Hmm...Arkarixus, do you have any idea what this could mean? Why would Regnatus want to attack this planet?'' Arkarixus - ''I cannot remember why this planet is important. I just remember it used to be a Kormacvar colony.'' Baptarion - Well we can follow Zaarkhun's plan and kill two birds with one stone. Yogtam - I think I see what you mean, Baptarion...explain it to us. Baptarion - We sneak in, let them fight each other until they are weakened, and then we strike and get the planet for ourselves.

Zaarkhun pondered again.

Falrik Zaarkhun - ''But I think we need more control of this situation. If we keep the Grox a little more occupied with other Chsoen worlds, we'll have less to deal with when we go.'' Baptarion - ''Fair point. Lure them into attacking more Chosen planets.'' Falrik Zaarkhun - However, I do see where you're going...and I may have to alter my plan...and I know just how to do that.

Falrik Zaarkhun pointed to the Propa Big Rogue Geek.

Falrik Zaarkhun - ''You there, Loron AI thing. Can you perhaps edit the video message so that it makes Fre'kloar look like Ref'kolar?'' Rogue Geek - ''Yes, I could. And I can see where you're going.'' Falrik Zaarkhun -'' Brilliant. How about you and Fre'kloar fake a message to Regnatus, perhaps provking him more and giving him hints to attack other worlds aound the sector?'' Rogue Geek - Contacting Regnatus directly is impossible, the closest I can get is the Ottzelloan Grox King. Falrik Zaarkhun - ''Either one will do. As long as Regnatus doesn't have his full weight and concentration behind this attack.'' Rogue Geek - ''Well I guess I should get this done. Hopefully Fre'kloar won't come up with a little Grox mask made of paper or something.'' Falrik Zaarkhun - You could probably try it now. Rogue Geek - Very well.

Gifts of the Elightened
As the other members of Order talked to plot a plan of action to combat the Devourer's Chosen, Sarec was in his quarters. He was busy working with numerous star-charts and a galactic map to locate the Gyronic Shards posessed by the Grox and the Chosen. He had his snout buried in star-charts, almost not noticing a light that appeared behind him. As the light became brighter it reached his peripheral vision. He felt it distracting and turned to look at it from his desk. His eyes widened as he felt its power and as he sat in shock, a woice emerged from it.

??? - ''Sarec... Sarec Thulassos.'' Sarec - You know my house name... ??? - We were observing you.

Sarec turned his seat and looked int othe light, he smirked slightly with a sense of interest and concern.

Sarec - ''You're not very good observers by shining like that... Unless... You said harsh challenges would await me. The conflict in Borelis, is this what you meant?'' ??? - ''You have potential. Your actions against the Mali. Against the Chosen.'' Sarec - Why have you come today? ??? - Your future.

he stood in silence, suddenly remembering the day he was approached by the Isio'nar who saved him in the Divinarium.

Sarec - ''When I first met your kind, you said I had te potential to become 'a great isio' is this what this is? has the day really come? Because I am not sure what to say.''

He paused in thought for a few moments, somewhat doubtful of what was happening.

Sarec - What is to happen to me now? ??? - ''We shall give you the power. Use it wisely.''

Sarec lowered his head, in considerable thought.

Sarec - ''I... I am not sure. How do I know that in accepting this gift I am not becoming a slave of some malicious being? You trust me with this power, I want to know that I can trust you... whoever you are.'' ??? - Trust your feelings.

Sarec could feel sincerity in the voices words, he was surprised seeing as how there was nothing to reference, but he had some idea from his research and the ocnnections he saw of what the Isio'nar appeared to stand for.

Sarec - Fine. What must I do now? Because I... Accept your offer.'' ??? - We give you the power then. Like we did to countless more. You, Iovera, others... are but one of many.'' Sarec - Iovera...

Sarec felt compelled and entered the light. he could feel empowered as energy filled his expanding consciousness. His eyes shone white but he was completely unaware that outside an inquisitor was trying to contact him. He was amazed at what he saw, he became aware of an entire galaxy and was almost overwhelmed with the feeling. As the transformation neared its completion the lgiht faded. WHen Sarec looked down he noticed his entire body was illuminated. However the body he saw was somewhat different to the body he remmebered; he appeared to be nothingness, he could see various events happening across the galaxy but as he recalled his former shape he noticed with relief that it dissolved into view.

he looked around the room, it was his quartered but he could hear conversations occuring throughout the ship, including Arsac's debrief. He looked at the star charts, he was not sure how but he noticed a pattern that he had not seen before; he had mapped the shard's cloation by sensing its power. With eagerness he decided to meditate one more time, as his consciousness soared through the galaxy his mind focused on a desolate orld, blackned with entropic corruption, the planet sat in what looked like a rift into hell itself however though observation he could work out where the planet was. The vision did not last long as two burning red eyes faded into view, concerned he may have been noticed he shunted back into the room. he stood up and hastily looked at his star-charts with a smile.

Through the aid of the power he had been given, he knew exactly where the forces of order needed to look.

Fooling the Cyborgs
In the unknown darkness of the Center of Death, travelled on his bio-synth spaceship when he received a message. It was Fre'kloar, but on the Grox's screen, he appeared as Ref'kolar on a Chosen spaceship.

Fre'kloar - yo yo blud dis is ref'kolar im propa dum i shul kill maself...OI YOO GROX BOY Thylaxiz - What the...? Fre'kloar - SUP WES DA CHOSEN AN WEZ GONNA KILL YAS AN MAKE A CRY...no wait WES GONNA MAKE YA LAFF TIL YA DAI

Thylaxiz laughed.

Thylaxiz - ''Hah. Seriously? Our fleets will crush you like the little bugs you are! In fact we're already on our way to obtain the planet that is rightfully ours!'' Fre'kloar - ''NO FUK OFF DAT PLANETS OURS WES GONNA GET...DA FINGY IN DERE. WES GONNA SUMMON ALL DA DEEMUNS AN WATNOT ON YOR PLANETS AN DEN SACRIFICE YAS AN ALL DAT SHIT'' Thylaxiz - ''Just try us. The Chosen are weak compared to Regnatus!'' Fre'kloar - ''FUK DA HATERZ MAN. DA CHOSEN HAS DA SHU GOD HES DA GODFATHA AN HES GONNA SMAK DAT WANNABE GODFATHA OF YORS''

Thylaxiz looked confident.

Thylaxiz - ''Fools! Trying to keep us out of your sector with manipulated Cold Relays? Our "Godfather" is of the race who created them! And we have th caretakers! We know them from the inside out! Idiots, we'll just manipulate the Cold Relays around your sector and access it that way, faster than you can stop us!'' Fre'kloar - ''OH YEH CUS YOR GONNA DO DAT. IM SOOOO SCARED OF DA LITTEL BLU IMPS AN DEYR COLD GEEK''

Fre'kloar shaked his butt in a taunting manner.

Thylaxiz - ''Grrrar! MECHANIC!''

The Mechanic's voice could be heard.

The Mechanic - You called? Thylaxiz - ''Lead a force to attack. And I went you to lead the Caretakers to manipulate the Cold Relays to our control. Figure out what they're doing to them, too. Waste no time.'' The Mechanic - Yes sir!

Thylaxiz turned to "Fre'kloar".

Thylaxiz - You just signed your death warrant. Fre'kloar - ''COM AT ME BRO. IM GONNA MAKE YOO SAD...no wait IM GONNA MAKE YOO BORED...or was it angry? or crazy?...fuk so many champions i dun kno all dese powas LOOK YOR JUS GONNA DAI OK?'' Thylaxiz - You'll make me bored by continuing with your empty threats. Fre'kloar - ''IF YOR SO TUFF DEN ATTAK. IM WAITIN!!!!''

Thylaxiz closed the transmission and prepared himself, he was thirsty for demon blood. Meanwhile...

Rogue Geek - ''He felt for it. I now question the Grox's intelligence for falling on such a terrible, terrible Ref'kolar interpretation.'' Fre'kloar - YA MOMS TERRIBRU

Archontas Ton Skion
Nai-Ar'natl laid dead in the dusts of the Chosen homeworld - glassed by the ITN until the ground was nothing but a dead rock embedded with lava. He was accompanied by a throng of dead - Chosen cultists strewn across the landscape with the same, morbid and vacant expression across their face, drowned in blood and burnt.

The homeworld became enshrouded with clouds and an air that stung the lungs of anything living. The ground became too difficult to walk on as everything was turned to glass. Everything that was not was charred, scalded or just dead. The clouds let in no sunlight as the clouds were as dark as the flesh of the dead that was spread across the cities and now-gone fields. The sun was let in with a forbidding white light peering through the clouds only rarely.

As the planet groaned and writhed in the fires that the ITN had so caused, the planet crumbled slowly from the destruction.

And then a new kind of darkness had engulfed the planet. The planet, even the entire system had gone cold from its presence. The very fabrics of space, time and logic began to tear around the homeworld as the abhorrent brilliance of Chaos had swallowed the world whole. The screams of the dead and the living could be heard as the eye of Chaos looked upon the Chosen Homeworld, with an unforgiving and malevolent gaze.

Approaching the planet was a blackened darkness, darker than space itself - so dark that the shadows borne from Chaos erased the darkness of space with its new-found evil. The planet went cold as the fires of the glassing were extinguished, and the sun turned black and only the heavens of Chaos giving light to the planet. It seemed like a horrific collage of colours; red, blue, green and the impossible black. It shone through the clouds as now the only colour that passed through the clouds was now a cold, putrid blue.

The planet then came alive again and tossed and turned in its wake, until the loose ground of the planet rose from the surface and blasted into space - the planet then splitting in half at the core in an illustrious crescendo - the silver of Chaos gleaning off the darkened surfaces of the planet as it orbited the body in a slow cycle.

Upon the ground descended a colossal black figure, darker so than the darkness of Chaos and that being darker than the darkness of space. Faceless, but with an eternal eye upon everything that Chaos encompassed. As the figure breathed slowly, its body set aflame with a blue horror and Chaos flashed into life, showing Anzilanarus in an adorned tenebrous aura. Anzilanarus walked across the ground, with the remainder of pebbles and ash that scattered all over followed in his path. Anzilanarus spoke to the heavens, his voice echoing throughout the universe;

"It seems that the servants of my servants have failed us. Wasted, dead, lifeless, a cold fate that began here. The mortals still have much to learn...a cruel message that can only be put across by the lifeblood streaming into the embrace of Chaos. No, my servants are not to be blamed...not to be punished until there is the clarity that failure rests with the gods that these mortals so served with zeal. You, my eternal Chaos have its will set across...a will that is changed only with the course of the Ouroboros. So shall this will be carried out until the purpose that you dictate comes to its end..."

Anzilanarus knelt down to the cold corpse of the Acolyte, looking facelessly into the Acolyte's also absent face. He hovered his gigantic hand over the corpse, the lights from Chaos' sky peering through the mortal clouds casting a shadow that casted over the body of the Acolyte. As Anzilanarus breathed again, an ethereal light spread from Anzilanarus' hand into the body of the Acolyte, breathing un-life into his body again.

The Acolyte awakened, with his body now clothed with the darkness that Anzilanarus had given him. He slowly raised to his feet, observing his new appearance and slowly looking at the visage of Chaos and Anzilanarus. He bowed to the dark being.

"You, my new servant...your life is the will of the Ourboros. Act as its catalyst...and give me your lifeblood as a service..."

The Acolyte exchanged wordlessly as Anzilanarus turned around, and Chaos enveloped itself back into reality, the planet reconstructing itself slowly and leaving it in its darkness and death. The Acolyte was reborn, and disappeared from the dead surface of the planet with a new, terrible power.