Fiction:Andromeda War/Act 3

Purgatory
Masuri sat in his cell. He grumbled to himself, conflicting whether what he had done was wrong or right. As he sat the door to his cell opened and two robed figures walked in. Their robes disgusing who they were, or what they were.

Masuri - ''What manner of creature are you? Dylan perhaps? This is a treat, i don't get visitors often.'' ??? - We have been instructed for you to come with us, do not worry about the guards. Masuri - ''Hmm? What about them? They were all traitors to the Wentals anyway.'' ??? - ''That is not your concern. We are to escort you from this cell.'' Masuri - ''Well now... you certainly have some right to be mysterious, but you should tell me who you are if you want me to go with you. Are with that Loron fella?'' ??? - ''No. We will reveal all once we leave. You can come willingly or we will carry you.'' Masuri - ''Ha! You make a good joke. But then, why am I arguing? Anywhere is better then this place, nothing ever changes here. I'll come willingly, if only to see who you are. ??? - I'm glad you are being cooperative.

As they walked out of the cells Masuri's guards seemed oblivious to the fact two strange figures were taking him straight from his cell. His escorts reamined silent for the entire trip to a shuttle.

Masuri - ''Now I'm sure you're with Dylan. Only he could pull strings and get the guards to be complacent for this... So, the silent treatment eh? Well, two can play at that game.''

After boarding the shuttle Masuri was taken to a room at the very back. He groand as he realised he had just been moved from one rison cell to another so after an hour he decided to to climb onto the walls to keep himself sane.

Masuri - Comeon, if this is a joke at least speed it up! ??? - .Interesting traits this one. ??? - Indeed.

The sound of muffled voices surprised him. Realeasing himself from the walls he snuck towards the door. The voices started sounding more familiar, the tones reminding him of his cordial journey to Alcanti.

Masuri - Who's there? Come on in, let me see your faces. ??? - He must be hiding from the camera ??? - *chuckles* No matter, he's not going anywhere. Masuri - A camera eh? Well, why don't you come and find me.

Eventually the hum of the engines stopped. The door to his cell opened and the figures had returned. This time they held a bag that was the right size and shape for Masuri's head. As they grasped him he struggled and could somehow feel they were much larger than their frames suggested. He scratched and screeched using whatever strength he could but it was not enough. Eventually the bag was forced on his head and he was pulled from his room. As he was taken down through several corridors he realied just who, and what, his captors were and a sensation of rage crept through his mind.

Masuri - ''Seriously? LIZARDS? Good greif, if you had been Meta I would understand this whole mess...'' ??? - It seems he's worked it out. ??? - Doesn't matter, now way is he going anywhere now. Masuri - ''Draconis I suppose. So, who told you where I was? I doubt you figured it out on your own, and you could never have managed to capture me without inside help.''

His captors remained silent. He was dragged into a room and he could feel a chair underneath him forfore then sensation of rubber was forced down on his wrists and shins. As the bag was removed he was blinded by a bright light that shone in his eyes. As he screeched and shouted a Draconis wearing plain red robes walks in. As he did he dimmed the light, calming Masuri down.

Kalvoretus - I take it you are Masuri. Masuri - ''Nope, I'm just the other Yama to survive my peoples deaths... what are you stupid? At least do a good job of being my tormentor or whatever.'' Kalvoretus - They rarely let us out much of this place, I just needed to make sure. Masuri - So, tell me, was it Dylan who told you where to find me? Kalvoretus - That's not my department. kalvoretus - ''When you were picked up you mentioned a Loron. Do you remember his name?'' Masuri - ''*Notices a sword with orange, bat-like wings extending from the blade* What do those wings and sword represent? They wouldn't be there if not important. And the Loron will remain unknown to you, he wants to remain anonymous.'' Kalvoretus - ''*points to the emblam* That is the emblam of the Inquisition of Drakon, you are in one of our most secure facilities. Did the Loron ever tell you his name?'' Masuri - ''Maybe. maybe not. I don't know anything, and you won't learn it.'' Kalvoretus - Oh we will, it's our job to uncover what little creeps like you hide inside their minds. Masuri - ''I'm not a little creep, I am the last Yaman. It is my honor bound duty to live up to my species and ancestory, I will not be beaten down.'' Kalvoretus - Your Wental friends provided a beverage that you may enjoy *releases a restraint on one of his arms, placing a glass of liquid in front of him.* It's perfectly safe to drink, you're far too important to die. Masuri - ''I'm fine. Starving to death do defy an enemy is an honorable way to die.'' Kalvoretus - ''As I understood it the Wental are allies with the Empire. Besides, we do not answer to the imperial government.'' Masuri - ''YOU ARE ALL ENEMIES! ALL OF YOU FILTHY CREATURES ARE! YOUR KIND KILLED EVERYTHING I EVER WORKED FOR, EVERYTHING I EVER CARED FOR! I WILL DESTROY YOU ALL!''

Kalvoretus leaned back as he watched Masui flaying the only arm he had and screching like a madman.

Masuri - ''SCUM LIKE YOU ARE THE REASON I EXIST, THE REASON ALL WENTALS EXIST! YOU ATTACKED US, YOU DESTROYED US! WE WILL HAVE THE FINAL LAUGH THOUGH. We will have the final laugh.'' Kalvoretus - My my, such unbridled rage... Masuri - ''You know nothing about me, nothing about us. You... your kind are evil, a taint that must be removed from the universe so that those who deserve it can live.'' Kalvoretus - Whak do you mean by 'my kind'? Masuri - Biolife. ''Non-Wentals. They are one and the same now.'' Kalvoretus - ''I see. Does it not concern you that biolife makes up the vast majority of the universe?'' Masuri - ''The vast amajority of the universe is not biolife, but rather, empty void. If we allow the majority to crush the few, there will never be justice.'' Kalvoretus - ''I was referring to the majority of life. Mecholife could never have existed without biolife.'' Masuri - ''Of course it could! Natural mecholife, or at least, a variation of it, can be found in almost every galaxy in the universe! Mecholife is stronger, it slowly takes over planets and then exists without any biolife at all! That is the fate of biolife scum like yourself, to be slowly killed of by a superior form of life.'' Kalvoretus - ''My job is not to convince you. *picks up a glass* now, drink. You must be thirsty from your journey.'' Masuri - *turns his head* No. Anything that you want me to eat that badly cannot be safe. Kalvatorus - ''Fine. We'll try another approach.''

Kalvoretus reaches over and secures a VR headset to Masuri. Ensuring that he cannot see anything from outside he prepares a syringe with a strange yellow liquid inside it.

Masuri - ''I can still hear you, and smell you, and feel you with the wind on my whiskers. Sight is not our ownly ability... Whats that? Some kind of serum to make me talk? Well, I don't think any of my, or any Mecholife, kind have been put under this kind of circumstance. I wonder what will happen next.'' Kalvoretus - There's aways a virus if this doesn't work... Masuri - ''Hmph. I wonder if you understand that I'm... I'm...''

As masuri drifts into an nauseous felling Kalvoretus activates the headset, displaying an image of Br'Klakkon that had been recovered from the ice-world Masuri had helped to bombard. The image was hardly very clear and badly blurred. Kalvoertus looked at his subject with a smile before bending down to ear level.

Kalvoretus - What do you see? Masuri - ''I see a loron. Sounds almost... no. I don't see anything.'' Kalvatorus - Has he dissapeared? Masuri - ''Y-yes. He... is no where... to be found.'' Kalvotorus - ''Hmm... Sounds like...'' Masuri - ''Like... like... like a... like this stuff you gave me isn't working!'' Kalvoretus - Fine, let's try somthing else *Uses the headset to project a virus into masuri in an attempt to override any resistance* You're a machine, let's see how you respond to this... Masuri - ''God damnit.... *starts to glitch up* it it it... Br'Klakkon. That was the Loron's name.'' Kalvoretus - What did he offer you in exchange for your services? Masuri - To help me destroy the Iteok. Kalvoretus - He's a being of great power correct? Masuri - I do not know. Kalvoretus - And how did he approach you? Masuri - ''He came to me in secret while I was... alone.'' Kalvoretus - Can you recall the place? Masuri - It was in my quarters on my flagship. Kalvoretus - ''Your passion to destroy the Iteok drove you to side with him. Was there anything in particular he asked of you?'' Masuri - Only for help getting the artifacts. Kalvoretus - Are the Iteok beyond forgiveness? Masuri - ''They are the mosnters who attacked my galaxy, my friends, MY family! They are the demons who killed my sisters, they are the spawn that started the war that ended my race! They are beyond even hell itself.'' Kalvoretus - ''Think deep, do you remember if anything drove them? Do you know if they still seek your people's destruction.'' Masuri - ''The Iteok are evil, they attacked for slaves and to spread sufferring and violence. Nothing drives them to be monsters except that they revel in the killing and hunting of others. They almost certainly want the same revenge I do, they do not like to lose. We only beat them by capturing their leader.'' Kalvoretus - ''Are they still a threat? Do they know where your people are now?'' Masuri - ''I do not know. I would assume so, they are from Kraw, the satelite of Andromeda.'' Kalvotorus - ''Did you know it is a visible sign of weakness to ask for the aid of etherals? To have others crush foes easily that deserve honourable combat. How is that a warrior's path?'' Masuri - ''I only want to avange my sisters and species. How is irrelivent. Yama do not have the same cultural values, victory is all that matters. The winner writes history, I could change it to make myself honorable. Imagine you were the last of your kind in all the universe. How would you get your revenge on those who killed all you loved? Kalvoretus - And where is the honour in such an act? To lie and deceive, you are just as bad as the creature you have sided with! Evil is a matter of perspective. Until the iteok have consumed and eaten you friends and family, you have no right to tell me what my values should be.'' Kalvoretus - ''The Loron does not care for your plight, he never did. All he wanted was your weapons to use for his own agenda... You are a puppet Masuri, another pawn in his eternal selfish game. Is that how you want to be remembered?'' Masuri - ''When all you know is destroyed, you will find that your legacy ceases to matter. There will be none to remember me, none to care about what I do or do not do. In death I shall know peace, in life I shall know vengence. That is the only legacy I need.'' Kalvoretus - ''Do you really believe that? *alters the VR headset to show images of the Wental council members* These people care for your sanity Masuri. They are worried about you. They don't want you to drift down the same irredeemable path as the Iteok have done. You are not alone Masuri, nor will you be forgotten. Even if the Loron upholds his end of the bargain, what do you think Br'Klakkon will do once the Iteok are dust and the artifacts are his?'' Masuri - ''I do not doubt that they care about my plight, but they cannot help me. And do not make the mistake of thinking I trust Br'Klakkon. He is biolife, and will die as such.'' Kalvoretus - ''They can help you Masuri, your suffering has closed your mind to them! They know you need to redeem yourself but siding with an ethereal is never the best way to go about it! The Inquisition was established to prevent such short-sighted bargains being made. Accept the help your friends offer.'' Masuri - ''Do you even understand what ethereals are? They are merely normal creatures with use of essence! Every Meta in the Wentals, and then many others, is an ethereal! So don't tell me not to side with one. Kalvoretus - Perhaps... But I'm certain that this Loron is one of those not to be trusted. The ignorant would consider what I refer to as gods in the true sense. Do you know where Br'Klakkon resides?'' Masuri - No, he refrained from revealing such information. Kalvoretus ''*sighs* - So much for the easy way... are you certain?'' Masuri - ''Yes, completely. You will need to find him at an artifact.'' Kalvoretus - ''We are done for today. *presses a button on the desk* Escort Masuri to his accomodation. *wipes any trace of the virus from Masuri* Thaink about what i said, about opening up to your friends?''

Masuri pouted before two guards entered and pulled him from his chair and escorted down several large corridors, the Inquisition's emblam is everywhere and inquisitors patrolled the hallways. After a long lift journe y with two unsociable guards Masuri was taken to a brig deep inside the facility, the lighting was poor and the accomodation looked spartan at best,

Masuri - I better have something to do all day, or this will get very tiresome. Inquisitor - Enjoy your stay, feel free to sample the station's literature archives. Masuri - Oh boy, lizard books... Prisoner - *psst* What did they haul you in for? Masuri - ''being an angry rampaging monster that has attacked them on several occasions. You?'' Prisoner - ''They accused me of leading a blood cult.. I only killed five people but it was sooo worth it *the man seems somewhat deluded*'' Masuri - ''Good god... I like him.'' Prisoner - ''I've been here for a month now... inquisitors everywhere and they won't shut up! What i did in my own home was my buisness!''

The guards left Masuri's cell block wyhi him alone opposite a raving madman. The next few months would become some of the longest of his life with melancholy quickly setting in. Eventually he would become desperate and bored enough to read the books his captors had provided them, sharing little enjoyment from doing so.

Old Freinds
A few ships approched shellis. The rings of the planet were quiet and serene. Several security stations dotted the orbit of the planet along with thousnads of sattelites that made it look more machine than planet, which it was. A voice then broke the silence.

Security Drone - "Warning, you are entering restricted space. Identify yourself or we will shoot down your ship." Clank - "Identification code 123409657." Security Drone - "Acsess comfirmed. Welcome Clank."

The small Wental fleet entered shellis's atmosphere. Rain poured down as tousands of ships flew in and out of the planetary ocean. Bottomless skyscrapers dotted the surface as they reached for the clouds. Waterfalls spread across the glowing buildings as small rays of sunlight and large advertising signs lit up the dark cityscape. Clank's ship then landed at the Spire top of the senate. He then put on a breathing suit and walk down into the watery rooms of the building.

Valleel Sentor - The material synthasizers are not fast enough. All those who want a say cast your vote on techology upgrades.

The senate was filled with aquatic plants and fish like creatures scattered around the room as they disscused the imperium laws. Clank headed to the royal palace.

Clank - Edoshai? I need to speak to you. Dylan could not be here, he had other matters. Edoshai? Edoshai - Look I don't want to buy anything, oh it's Clank. Hello, is there something you wish to discusss Clank? I have not seen anyone from the old alliance since wental was destroyed. Pity it had to die out. Clank - Im here to tell you about something Dylan think you should know about Andromeda. He says it is very important. Edoshai - Is he talking about the galactic merge? I already know of that. Clank - No. In Andromeda the draconis discovered a large amouts of gaurdian droids. Something called the inheritance. They protect a wide variety of odd artifacts that everyone seems to be obsessed with. Masuri has been acting strange and Dylan has not said what is happening. The point is the wentals need the shellious imperium to come back to the front. Edoshai - Wait a minute! Artifacts of power? Guardian droids? What the hell is going on?!?! Clank - Ill explain later. you need to come to andromeda.

The Meta Meditation
Dylan - Masuri has been captured by an unknown foe, we believe them to be friends of his. Jasmine - Wha-? Dylan - They managed to break into our high security base and flee without any warning. As such, I propose that we officially get into the Artifact War, as it's called, before he or this enemy can take advantage of our not being involved. Arukas - Wait, wait, slow down, explain yourself! Dylan - It's simple. And unidentified entity infiltrated our most secure prison and left with Masuri on a green platter. There is no sign of a struggle, he went willingly, which means that he knew who they were and wanted to go with them. We can only assume that they are his friends. Kuhera - But... wait, how did they breach your defenses? Dylan - I do not know, they shouldn't have been able to do so. They must have been using essence or extremely advanced tech. Nampt - So... what do you think we should do? Dylan - We need to enter the war. The Draconis have been attacked by enemies, the Loron and others. We cannot allow our alliance with them to fall apart because we didn't want to get involved in war. Hinata - Dylan.... are you sure you're completely yourself? You sound... rushed. Dylan - The Forest is back. I can feel it. All the Meta can feel it. We need to move before others learn of it's revival, before others can silence it again. Arukas - I thought your essence seemed disrupted. I think you need to calm yourself. We cannot vote until Clank return anyway, and Remlap and Titrit are still on their mission to the Milky Way for trade and alliances to help us in the future. We cannot hold a vote until after they return. Dylan - But they will not do so for some time, the message must find them then they must return. We're talking weeks, weeks in which we could lose it all before even starting the race! We must act, not debate! Kuhera - I am not a part of the Wental Council, however, I can sense the confusion in your mind. The Worldforest, that great entity that has been in the back of your mind, dormant, has reawakened, and now it is driving you to act without thinking. Allow me to try and calm you.

Kuhera closes her eight eyes, faces Dylan, and then just falls still.

Kuhera - Your mind is truly wrapped in chaos right now, Dylan. The Forest Mind is disrupting your rational thought, you have already done several things some would consider stupid or spontaneous. You are like a drug addict that has been withdrawn for to long, and now you have the drug back you are allowing it to rule you in a way never before. If this is the same with all the Meta, then your entire species should be put under mandatory house arrest until you calm down and return to your normal patterns of thought. Dylan - You can't do that! Hinata - But we can. Let us take a quick vote on it.

The Wental Council votes. Nampt, Arukas, Hinata, Jasmine, Uma, and First Spark all vote to do it. Dylan votes against. Because of the way the council works, the majority rules, and Dylan, along with all the other Meta, are sent to their homes to recover and re-adapt to the Worldforest Mind's influence.

However, Dylan does not slow down because of that. From his house, using the Meta Mind Network, he ensures that when the meditation ends, his people will set everything up to gain the Wentals permission to enter the war. They will send the messages, they will get the votes, and in the end, they will ensure that the Wentals are not taken by surprise again.

The Demonic Horde
Tyraz was furious. As he walked past a guard to Volkarus' office he, out of rage cast the guard down. As he walked in he suddenly felt rooted in place. As he looked down he saw his feet bated in chaotic energy, Volkarus stood dissapointed at Tyraz.

Volkarus - My throat could do without the touch of your bony fingers for a while my lord. Tyraz - ''Volkarus, was that an insult? If so, I advise you to rethink your words.'' Volkarus - ''Not an insult my lord. You do seem to enjoy throttling everyone you meet. Even creatures my size...'' Tyraz - I have throttled people who tower even over you. Volkarus - ''That wasn't the point i was trying to make, but I was not expecting you because I wanted to enlighten you to your pleasures. Do you think i am blind on this ship?'' Tyraz - *growls and tail swishes side to side* You are blind to honour and bravery. Volakrus - First: At no point did I ask you personally to kill Alensia and Second: I wouldn't call her innocent. Tyraz - ''She is no commander nor leader! That is Uriel! Killing her would be an act of dishonour!'' Volkarus - ''Every little houseless scum she lays could grow to become another annoyance to us! Her task is to feed the house's numbers and I wouldn't consider her 'innocent' for that.'' Tyraz - ''Houseless scum?! You plan on killing her children?! That is an even bigger taboo!'' Volkarus - ''I am not a complete monster. I draw the line at killing children personally, in fact... they could become a valuable asset *a devilish smile creeps across his face*'' Tyraz - The Zazane may use child warriors.....But what do you plan? Volkarus - ''For the first decade of their lives Draconis hatchlings are very impressionable. They are fast learners and what they learn in that first decade becomes deeply rooted, this has been exploited by both the Blood Dragons and the Inquisition since the imperium's foundation. Did you know that no Blood Dragons have ever known their birth parents? They are sent off to Alcanti before they even hatch.'' Tyraz - ''What are you planning, coward? You want to absorb children who aren't yours into your own kin just to make them soldiers?'' Volkarus - ''We can use them as insurgents, any Ultanos survivors who find them will think that they have found lost young and will readily accept them back. Unaware that they have been conditioned to kill the ultanos when the oppertunity arises!'' Tyraz - That is psychological warfare! Volkarus - ''Do you disapprove? Ultanos had every Khaxvis they could find executed in Minos'Drakon's central plaza: Men. Women. Children. The presecution continued for fifty years, the paragon's walkway was almost red with spilled blood!'' Tyraz - ''For what reason did they commit such a bloody act, Volkarus? What did your bloodline do to provoke them?'' Volkarus - ''they branded us as usurpers. They thought we were unfit for the throne despite the fact the empire prospered under our reign! Our position was certified by the senate itself.'' Tyraz - ''Obviously it did not prosper if you were overthrown! Weakling!''

Volkarus grew evermore frustrated. it seemed that every attempt he made to redeem hiscause Tyraz semmed to willingly find a counter. when finally he snapped- Tyraz had to know the truth.

Volkarus - ''My predecessors saw fit to keep the Ultanos as pets, kept secret from the rest of the galaxy. That was a mistake, one i do not want repeating. Understood!?'' Volkarus - ''I am not like my ancestors, they were content with what Drakon had given them, refusing cybernetics. They. Were. Weak.'' Tyraz - ''*growls and lets out a roar* You dare impose authority over me?! You are no better! You wish for the slaughter of children and innocents! I have not seen modern Ultanos do this!'' Volkarus - ''*snarls* The Ultanos are soft. Content to let others attack them first, They do not revel in the art of war and I only seek the death of Ultanos, if it was any other house things would be different.'' Tyraz - ''They have changed since the days your coward-ancestors were overthrown! Destroying them now would make you nothing but a....I cannot even describe it! I think the word is.....dossbakk! (douchebag)'' Volkarus - ''Fine, I won't touch any of the children, but what if the broodmother draws a blade to me. What then?'' Tyraz - ''Then I will take away your Descension powers and let her kill you! You go nowhere near her!'' Volakrus - ''*snarls* Then you had better pray to whatever gods you have that this genetic weapon of yours works... I suggest you draw back this low opinion you have of my kind.'' Tyraz - ''*snarls louder and wings spread* Or what, you Shyrak devouring bottomfeeder?! I will be forever stronger than you! You dare not threaten me!''

Overcoming his bonds Tyraz launches himself at Volkarus, grasping his neck and pinning the Draconis to the floor. Tyraz gripped tightly, so close Volkarus could hear Tyraz breathing.

Volkarus - ''The latter was only a suggestion... my lord!'' Tyraz - ''You dare not suggest me anything, especially of your pathetic bloodline! *nears Volkarus's face with his own, near enough that Volkarus can hear and feel Tyraz breath* I for one wish those Blood Dragons would just destroy you all...slowly and painfully...''

As they struggle Volkarus summons his Honour Guard. Tyraz quickly dispatched them by impaling them with his claws and tearing them open. Volkarus simply watched with rage as his 'master' tore apart his guards.

Volkarus - ''Never, EVER assume either my kin or the imperium have not advanced since we left the homeworld. We were conquering worlds and building distant cities before your kind ever arrived in this universe!'' Tyraz - ''And MY kind were conquering OUR Universe before this Universe even existed! And even now we are stronger than you! We travelled from one Universe TO ANOTHER! THIS IS HOW FAR WE HAVE COME!!!''

Tyraz lifted Volkarus up before pinning him against a wall, it was klear VOlkarus was fighting alosing battle.

Volkarus -''...You might be impervious to whatever they throw at you but many of your kind are still mortal, still at risk of death. Many have underestimated the imperium and just as many spend eternity in the bonds of slavery.'' Tyraz - ''You have to learn about Zazane biology, fool! Mature Zazane can kill themselves thanks to an organ next to their heart! It bursts and they die! To avoid slavery and capture! And my race takes pride in dying! We are not cowards like yourself!''

Tyraz snarled before rushing the Zazane. As he fails to punch the Zazane in the chin Tyraz grabs one set of horns, much to Volkarus' anoyance and begins tearing them from his skull, resisting by swinging Tyraz to slam him against a wall. Eventually breaking the horns both of them roar in victory and rage repsectively. Volkarus retaliates by reaching to grasp Tyraz' throat only to have his own hand impaled by one of his own horns, Tyraz then impales the other horn in the shoulder and kicking him down.

Volkarus - ''Kill me and the possibility of aquiring whatever secrets those artifacts hold will be forever lost to you! With my help the Imperial Talon Navy itself will fight for you. Millions of warships, quadrillions of soldiers.. all would be by your side.'' Tyraz - I need no use of you.... Volkarus - ''A single firelance capital has the power to blast a lpanet to ash! How could you deny such power?'' Tyraz - ......I have no use of superweapons. Volakrus - ''You sided with me because you wanted those artifacts. Uriel would never tell you where they are, i would! We could carve an eternal empire from this galaxy. Uriel or his ilk would never consider something like that.''

Volkarus uses the lull in the fighting to pry the impaled horns from his body before heading to his desk.

Volkarus - ''So is this it? Do you intend to kill me?'' Tyraz - ''....No. Not yet. The time will come, however....'' Volkarus - My lord, have you ever seen what the imperium's weapons can do yourself? Tyraz - ''Did you know that Brood are currently more powerful? What need do I have of them?'' Volakrus - Know your enemy my lord, know your enemy. Tyraz - I know my enemy, and it is you, who is also my mistake. Volkarus - ''Until the day Arsac grants you a pardon the inquisition will forever hunt you and your kind... No matter what Uriel says.'' Tyraz - You think I am scared of the petty Inquisition? Volkarus - ''What of your kind my lord? A single inquisitor is far more dangerous and far harder to kill than any Blood Dragon. They see the Brood as a blood cult, with you at it's head. If they think that killing the cultists weakens the master, that is what they will do.'' Tyraz - ''Then they are wrong. They have not seen the true power of an Ayrai'Shikua Firesword, more powerful than any battlestation.... *He draws his Firesword, which blazes a black fire*'' Volkarus - ''But... Have you ever seen the effects of a fusion rifle my lord?'' Tyraz - ''A fusion rifle can do nothing against a Xhodocto weapon! Of course, it is Pre-Revelation....But still more powerful than any gun, battlestation, or ship. It cannot be destroyed...'' Volkarus - Then at least let me demonstrate, if not for you then in regards to your brood; They are still vunerable to it. Tyraz - ''So long as they are mortal....They are lucky. I am not so...'' Volkarus - ''Wherever you go, the draconis wield such weapons. The technology is ancient but they still use it as a staple. Marines, Dragons, Inquisition... They all have access to such weapons.'' Tyraz - ''And you think I fear any of them? You think Zazane fear any of them? You think the animalistic Cyrod are afraid? The Hetii Swarm? No. None of them fear them.'' Volkarus - ''It was no mistake to descend me my lord. Once the Ultanos are out of the way I will see to being more 'civil'. my kind are used to such underhanded methods of war because it is effective. Your brood need to learn to be more careful of dying. Charging into batte recklessly only guarentees your death, which can lead to defeat.'' Tyraz - ''Volkarus...We have not been defeated. Not once.....'' Volarus - ''As I recall you had to withdraw from Solvani III. That sounds like a defeat to me.'' Tyraz - We withdrew because we discussed a truce....

Volkarus pulls out a fusion pistol from his desk, along with a rather firm-looking fruit and a ceramic armour plate. Placing them on a pedestal he aims his pistol, looking at Tyraz momenterily. Tyraz was unimpressed as though Volkarus was trying to get his attention. Before firing volkarus commented on the plate's properties. As he fired a white pulse flies from the pistol, buring a hole through the plate and hitting the fruit. Both the fruit and the hole's rim dissolve into a gel in less than a second. Tyraz then pulls out a shidium pistol and fires through the office door, leaving a white-hot hole and hitting a passerby. The victim screams in pain before dying and collapsing in seconds. Volkarus looks on, both surprised and impressed. After Tyraz mentioned Shidium's pwer Volkarus called for someone to be brought up, moment later Tyraz realised it was the turncoat he had let go earlier. Tyraz was furious at Volkarus' defiance.

Turncoat - ''I'm sorry sir, they overpowered me... The Elder is safe...'' Tyraz - I let him go, Volkarus...And I have command over you! Volkarus - ''He is still a traitor and I never intended to have him leave. This is still my ship my lord!'' Tyraz - ''You handed your forces over to me when you begged alliegance to me! I am not surprised he betrays you!'' Guard - We managed to catch the worm in the shuttlebay, the imperium knows about our plans. Volakrus - You planned this from the start didn't you? Tyraz - I only planned this because I knew I made a mistake Descending you.... Volkarus - You have not been fighting our war my lord, you don't know what we have been through to come this far, the sacrifices we made. Tyraz - ''Why should I care? You are all the same race'' Tyraz - ''The Zazane made peace between our different races long ago... It is not my place to fight in your petty civil war.'' Volkarus - ''I still promise my support of you when I take the throne. I still seek another golden age and with your help that is only days away!'' Volkarus - Do you still support what I am trying to build?

Volkarus offers Tyraz the fusion pistol, hinting that to prove he was still interested Tyraz had to shoot the turncoat. Tyraz simply growls, batting away the pistol.

Tyraz - ''Your goal is that of jealousy, not of revenge! And I do not support a jealous cause...'' Volkarus - You are turning down a powerful ally, why do you think the imperium lasted as long as it has? Tyraz - Why do you think the Zazane have lasted longer? Volkarus - ''Your old empire died long ago with your last universe and even today what you have built here is a fraction of what could have been. Helping me secure the imperium can provide countless benefits.'' Tyraz - ''*slowly turns to Volkarus* I am done here, Volkarus. I disown you as my servant and as an ally.'' Volkarus - ''You have been nothing but an irritance, you are soft. What ahppened to that Zazane warrior heart i have heard so much about? You call me weak but you turn down the chance to claim over a million systems and quadrillions of soldiers in a single blow!'' Tyraz - ''I have learned to trust certain people and learn from mistakes. I am currently learning from you, who is nothing more than a mistake, and always will be.'' Volkarus - ''If that is what you desire... You have not lived our pain Tyraz, were you in my situation wouldn't you do anything should your brother take your throne... perhaps your father?''

'Father', the very mention of that one word and Tyraz froze. He clenched his fists in an undescribable rage before charging in Volkarus' direction. As he charged Volkarus summoned several of his honour guard and porjected a barrier to shield himself. In a beserker fury Tyraz forced his way through the army, tearing into them. Those that were not killed teleported to defend themselves. Tyraz burst effortlessly through Volkarus' barrier.

Tyraz - ''Dare to intimidate or anger me again! Go on! I dare you!'' Volkarus - ''This rage, that is what I live with every. single. day! Long before we even met. Every day I just want that whelp to bleed and die, we know the feeling don't we? Uriel might not have been related to me, but my anger for him is just as great. My house's blood is on his hands, on every generation since the executions and i want him to pay for it!'' Tyraz - ''We? WE?! You dare compare yourself to me?! *smacks Volkarus against the ground, still holding his throat* I have had enough of this "we" business!! I am NOTHING like YOU! NOTHING!!! My WHOLE bloodline were MURDEROUS BASTARDS!! And NOTHING has CHANGED!!''

Tyraz throttles Volkarus before throwing him out into the corridor, before he hit the wall he teleported, hitting the rear wall in a black mist.

Volkarus - ''Rage, fury, it doesn't end does it? I WILL SEE THE IMPERIUM STRONG AGAIN! Both of us want to change, You don't want to be like your predecessors and I don't want ot be like my ancestors.'' Tyraz - ''GO ON AHEAD!! I WILL NOT HELP YOU!!'' Volkarus - ''*Snarls loudly* Face facts Tyraz! We are alike, both of us were born to suffering! If you will not help me then at the very least do not let us become enemies!''

The turncoat tries to struggle out of the honour guard's grip, although easily overpowered. Out of compassion Tyraz swings his sword and decapitates the guard holding him. As he regains his strength Volkarus, now furious draws his pistol and fires at the turncoat, only to have it caught and fizzle in Tyraz' hand

Volkarus - ''You would protect this whelp? Look at him, he is weak!'' Tyraz - I was wrong in Descending you, Volkarus....

Tyraz leaps at him, firesword drawn, Volkarus snarls before teleporting - knowing full-well the sword would be his bane. Tyraz turns to the turncoat as he lands, offering him safety. Both of them teleported to the Ghost of the Warrior.

Turncoat - ''I don't know what to say Lord Breek but.. thank you. I have abandoned house Khaxvis and the inquisition would hunt me down as an abomination... I'm not sure if I have anywhere to go...'' Tyraz - ''Do not worry about the Inquisition. I will convince Uriel to accept you.'' Turncoat - ''The inquisition listens to either Arsac or the cult. Confiding in the paragon might not work...'' Tyraz - Then I will house you within the Brood until further notice. Turncoat - I used to know of Volkarus before, with this power you cave him I-I-I don't know what he is capable of... Tyraz - A lot of things that will prove no good to anybody.... Turncoat - ''He never was the merciful type, few of us were. In fact I remember seeing on occasion he would execute mercenary leaders who failed him.'' Tyraz - I will end his wretched life....He was my mistake, I will get rid of it... Turncoat - ''He was always a good hider. Why did you agree to do it anyway?'' Tyraz - I do not know anymore.... Turncoat - ''He always had a bit of a silver tongue. if there were two things he would be remembered for it is his discretion and his way with words.'' Turncoat - ''I thank you for your kindness Lord Breek. Now if you will excuse me I need some rest.''

As the turncoat leaves as Tyraz gazes out at the fleet, watching the assembled Khaxvis vessels warp away. As he bowed his head he could feel himself panting with rage and his resolve to slay Volkarus was stronger than ever. Back on the generation ship Volkarus was just as furious; as he looked out one of his aides approached, asking him what is going to happen next. he had only one answer:

"Prepare for battle. There has also been an addition to the plan: Have a detachment prepare to storm the cathedral in Dagonris. I want the inquisition's archives turned upside down!"

Traitors Exposed
Iovera sat in her chambers, now aand again thoughts of Tyraz crosed her mind, flashing with the images of her vision. As she tried to make sense she noticed something in the corner of her eye. She turned to find out what, looking out into an empty room. Irritated she called out, sensing the presence of someone not entirely visible. Deactivating her holofield, Arsac emerged from the shadows with a distorted haze, looking towards Iovera.

Iovera - ''Welcome, Inquisitor. I expected you to come.'' Arsac - I'm not disturbing anything am I clericarch? Iovera - ''...No. Not at all.'' Arsac - I bring grave news: Tyraz Breek has been discovered collaborating with known traitors of the imperium. Iovera - ''Tyraz? Tyraz Breek? Uh... nevermind. Do you want us to help you somehow?'' Arsac - ''It gets worse. My sources tell me that he has descened several hundred of the traitors' highest-profile members. The traitors in question are of the former Grand House Khaxvis. They have only one goal in mind: Attack Alcanti and place the house's master on the imperial throne.'' Iovera - ''I will send my forces to defend your homeworld- no, I shall come to this world myself. Because... the matters are truly dire.'' Arsac - ''Thank you Clericarch, I confess that the Inquisition is not prpared for such an incursion. Tyraz is the first descended being i have face and as you know i was powerless.'' Iovera - Indeed. Arsac - ''Three centuries of experiences and i could do nothing. I understand what the Dei'Ar are capable of and the inquisition has nothing effective to counter such demons.''

Iovera nods as Arsac speaks. Recalling how Arsac simply stood there as Tyraz killed two of her inquisitors.

Arsac - Indeed, i remember well how you stood up to the creature. Iovera - ''That vision... Fate of me and of this Zazane are linked... somehow. I must meet him again... just... I am not doing that for him or something, yes. I just want to find out what was the meaning of this vision.'' Arsac - ''I could sense something stirring in both of you. However it is not my place to meddle in such matters.'' Iovera - ''Yes. If you want our forces to deal with the resurgence, let it be. We Radeons do not tolerate heretics and rebels, and, yes... I will personally be present in the place... Just to watch the battle...'' Arsac - ''There is indeed a high chance he would journey to Alcanti to revel in the carnage he would bring there... I will grant your fleet access to the gateway network however I am concerned that such travel may be too slow, i was informed the amassed fleet was to depart soon. I do not doubt the empire's defencive capabilities, however we are dealing with bings of trememndous power who cannot be killed with a blade! I have another request, Clericarch.'' Iovera - Our forces will warp to Alcanti themselves so. Arsac - ''What I am about to ask could be considered rather contraversial... I ask for aid in furthering my inquisitors in the mastery of elemntal energy. For years we have used various techniques to merge mind and body however it was purely defencive, we need something capable of fighting demons such as the Khaxvis elite.'' Iovera - ''Oh... Do you want us to train you?'' Arsac - ''Yes. I will grant study visas for teachers, chosen by your government, to enter the deeper parts of our monasteries. It's contraversial because very few non-draconis are allowed into the deeper sections where the cult lives and prays - including inquisitors.'' Iovera - ''I fear that this can be dangerous... but yes. The threat of Khaxvis is major and we will allow some of you to be trained.'' Arsac - ''Another option is that I pick my most adept inquisitors and they study within the Divinarium. But the archcleric may grow concerned that you would 'stray them from the flock'. We are aware of how zealous your practicioners are and none in the cult would take too kindly to seeing their inquisitors convert to Spode. Another option is that i pick my most adept inquisitors and they study within the Divinarium. But the archcleric may grow concerned that you would 'stray them from the flock'. We are aware of how zealous your practicioners are and none in the cult would take too kindly to seeing their inquisitors convert to Spode.'' Iovera - Good. Arsac - ''They are your teachers clericarch. If you would prefer their students learn under your natural conditions I will not argue as long as their needs are met. One last thing before i leave: If you wish to confess anything do so now; A clear mind is one free of doubtful thoughts.'' Iovera - ...Yes. Arsac - *inhales deeply* I am listening. Iovera - ''I feel the strange... feelings towards that Zazane. This is unnatural...'' Arsac - Can you describe them? Iovera - ''Affection. Unnatural attraction..''

Iovera pauses in thought. What she felt seemed completely alien to her. She had considerable troublefinding the right words before finalyl uttering one.

Iovera - ...Love? Arsac - ''*smiles* Such feelings are far from unnatural clericarch. In fact there are tales where such feelings have driven people to accomplish the impossible. Why do you consider them unnatural?'' Iovera - ''But he is a Zazane... And I am a Clericarch... This... can't happen... this...'' Arsac - ''I have seen this before, the affection is... quite primal. He did save your life.'' Iovera - ...Maybe... Arsac - ''While I would normally condem the attraction towards a creature of.. his nature. You are not someone I normally speak to. Look inside yourself, think deep... what did he do the moment you fell for him? While I would normally condem the attraction towards a creature of.. his nature. You are not someone I normally speak to about such matters. Look inside yourself, think deep: what happened the moment you fell for him?'' Iovera - ''I... I do not understand. I can't realise what.'' Arsac - ''I will give you time to think it over. For now I will have inquisitors other than your new students withdraw from Crepusculum since they are the empire's best defence right now. Until we meet again... your Holiness.'' Iovera - Goodbye, Inquisitor.

Arsac bows before leaving Iovera. As she leaves the High Inquisitor calls for two passing inquisitors to follow her with every intention of fulfilling her end of the bargain. Iovera decided to not waste any time and called for the Black Fleet to prepare itself.

The Battle for Alcanti
When the black fleet had finally arrived to relieve Alcanti they arrived a little too late. The defending fleets were already fighting valiantly against the Khaxvis-led onslaught. Both the planet's orbital defence twtwork and the fleets faough valiently to end the attack and below there were already signs of damage. Commanding the planet's defence aboard the Dominax Larnus swiftly opened holographic communication with Iovera the moment she arrived, while Arsac - who due to Iovera's preparations had left earier - was already at the Lord-Admiral's side.

Larnus - Black Fleet this is Lord-Admiral Larnus Vontarion, unless you are hre to help I advise you keep your distance. Arsac - ''Larnus the Black Fleet is here under my permission along with Clericarch Iovera. Stand down alert and allow them to help.'' Iovera - ''I and Jahric are here to help you. The Divinarium admires its allies and we shall fight together this time.'' Larnus - ''Glad to hear. House Khaxvis is attacking in full force and they deployed ground troops the moment they arrived. Reinfocements in the shape of the 247th, 410th, 51st and 17th fleet are en-route but we could use whatever *turns to his right talking to somoene else, revealing a prominent scar on his left snout* Battlestations two and three report incusrions... Reports say that marines just appeared in the corridors.'' Iovera went through the portal and appeared to the commanders with Jahric and Matheoward. Arsac - Clericach, a pleasure. Iovera - ''Jahric, you know what you should do. Go and lead the Twilight Guard to the victory. Matheoward, you shall stay with me. Your advice may help the Draconis.'' Arsac - I was just informing the lord-admiral that our weapons can do nothing because of what Tyraz has done. Larnus - So far the traitors are only bombarding military installations, he seems to be avoiding civillian casualties. Arsac - How are ground forces holding up? Larnus - ''We should be thankful that not all of them are unkillable. The house brought a large force of mercenaries with them and are now attacking on two fronts. One in Minos'Drakon and one in Dagonris.'' Arsac - Why would he- *bows her head in realisation, snarling* Jahric - ''We shall help you to fight the mercenaries in Dagonris as we can. We are teleporting there right now.'' Arsac - ''Have all your units gather to defend the cathedral, That's their most likely target if they aren't there already. Drakon help us...'' Larnus - Uriel is deep within the Palace behind a legion of Blood Dragons, if the foe cannot be killed we will have to hold them back for as long as possible. Arsac - ''Is that it? What happened to the tactical genius I heard so much about?'' Larnus - Tactics lose effect if your opponent cannot be killed. Iovera - Our elementalists, and I, can kill them with relative ease. Larnus - ''I am glad to hear. Remember that house Khaxvis are - for lack of a better word - freaks of nature. For millenia they have improved themselves with genetics and cybernetics beeyond recogniseability, even as mortals they have been vary dangerous.'' Officer - Lord-Admiral we have new orbital signatures... Jahric - ''Plasma these dragons, quickly! Let none surv-'' Iovera - ...What?

In orbit the Fleet of Ruin had arrived, firing their shidium guns at the Khaxvis ships and tearing the ships apart, by this time Khaxvis had gained control of the two stations and used the orbital batteries in an attempt to overwhelm the Brood fleet. On the ground a shadow materialises in the form of a Zazane, as it snarled the shadow took shape as Tyraz Breek. Upon seehing him Arsac releases a roar of rage in Tyraz direction. In response he roars back, drawing his fireword. Iovera simply stands in confusion

Arsac - ''You.... I'll slit your throat demon!'' Tyraz - ''It is my fault these....mistakes exist. It is my responsibility that I fix this.....'' Iovera - ''...That... Zazane... again? I'll... uh...'' Arsac - ''Indeed, look around Tyraz. Alcanti is in turmoil because of you!'' Tyraz - ''*he looks to Iovera, and then looks down at his feet, blushing black.* Hello, M-Mistress Iovera....*he then looks up to Arsac and growls* I will fix this! I realized I made this mistake almost immediatley after I Descended them.....'' Arsac - ''If you reamain true to your word i -may- consider a pardon. Volkarus is attacking on two fronts: Minos'Drakon and Dagonris.'' Tyraz - Leave Volkarus and his army to me....*turns to Iovera* Clericarch, be careful. Iovera - ''With my powers and this... uh... Zazane with us, we will be able to fight them. Jahric will take care of mercenaries.'' Arsac - ''Understood, I will join you Clericarch. The cathedral of Drakon is where the Inquisition is based and knowing these Khaxvis they must be after the archives.'' Iovera - Indeed.

Iovera, along with Arsac arrived in Dagonris. Larnus was right - much of Dagonris remained intact however Khaxvis forces were pressing much of their attack on the cathedral in the centre of the city. A fortified line of inquisitors, auxillaries and Talon Marines stood between them and the Cathedral steps and the fighting was intense. A horde of mercenaries, vehicles and a few descended Khaxvis charged like a red tide towards the barricades. As the three of them moved in to help one of the officers on board the Dominax informed the ground team of a new development

Arsac - Unless those teleport powers of yours can direct you through a maze you will need me. The catacombs are where the inquisition's archives are based.

Arsac Leads Iovera through the cathedral catacombs, passing dead inquisitors and mercenaries as they go, seeing each one made her more determined than ever to stop the threat as quickly as she could eventually swearing the attackers would pay. As they headed deeepr down they faced increasing resistance. While iovera swiftly dealt with the demons Arsac occupied herself with the mercenairs, cutting and striking them down with little effors. On the Surface the defances were being overwhelmed, Tyraz teleported outside the cathedral and stood to relieve the defenders now standing in his true demonic form, towering over those who charged against him. he decimated the attackers with ease and for a moment Iovera felt the need to defend him, teleporting outside and attacking demons that came near. As she wondered to herself what she was doing Tyraz looked down and noticed her. A feeling of passion overcame him and he returned to his Zazane form - both of them stood awkwardly wondering what had come over them. The aukward silence was broken with Arsac on the comm - She had reached the arhive nexus but as she said this the channel was overcome with static. Realising that the mission must come first Iovera teleported back, leaving Tyraz to return to the defence.

Iovera and saw Arsac lying unconscious by a wall, two of Volkarus' honour guards were standing over her and contemplating how to finish her. Iovera telekinetically throws both of them against a wall before shocking the mboth until death. One of them thought they could surprise er but was simply shocked to the ground. Inside a loud, gravelly voice echoed through the archive chambers. Outside Tyraz could also hear a voice in his mind - Volkarus.

Volkarus - ''I thought you'd follow me... You're so predictable...'' Tyraz - Volkarus, you make a fatal mistake! Volkarus - ''*laughs* You keep telling yourself that... While we bicker my warriors would have overcome the battlestation defences. turning them against Larnus and his fleets. Under my authority you are stuck here. Not even your fleet of ruin can overcome three battlestations!'' Tyraz - No...But the Black Fleet, Imperial Talon Navy, and Fleet of Ruin can challenge that! Volkarus - ''The planet's defences were designed to resist the Confederation of Andromeda when it was at its' height. Your fleets are nothing.''

Iovera was caught off-guard and was grabbed by the throat by Tornarion - Volkarus' second in command and a Draconis taller than she was. Tyraz could sense her pain and despite resisting as much as he could he had no choice. Spawning a wave of Zazane creatures outside he teleports inside to defend Iovers. As he lifts her up by the throat, squeezing tightly the creature smiled. When Tyraz appeared the Daconis warrior looked at him with a snarl. In rage both of them draw their swords and Tyraz spinning in a circle and slashing at Tornarion's waist. Making a successful attack, though not fatal, He watches as Tornarion's blood drips onto the floor, and snarls. Iovera, still in hs grasp, tries to hit the warrior and thanking Tyraz although as he is hit he attepmts to pry Iovera's staff from her. He was interrupted as Tyraz plunged his sword into Tornarion's chest, spraying botth him and Iovera in the creature's blood. As Tornarion roared in pain he teleported to the console he was using and noticed the download was only halfway done. While Tornarion was distracted Tyraz teleported behind him and knocked him down. Tyraz was slowly regaining consciousness from the ordeal.

Arrsac - ''The... download...'' Tyraz - Do not worry Arsac.

As Tornarion struggles Tyraz grabs the Draconis by the face before pounding his head against the console. Tyraz smiled before leaping into the air and forcing Tornarion's head into the concole - almost obliterating the creatures skull before he slumped onto the floor.

AI - ''Warning, data transfer error, download suspended at 63% completion... data transfer, complete'' Iovera - What happened...? Tyraz - *runs over to Iovera and lifts her body into his arms, a look of worry and concern on his face* M-Mistress Iovera...A-Are you okay? Iovera - Yes... I am fine.'' Arsac - ''*manages to stand up* uugh... The scum managed to upload *cringess* 63% of the archives...'' Iovera - What archives? Tyraz - *looks down with a look of sadness* I have failed you... Arsac - ''*limps to the console* The Inquisition archives. there's over 200,000 years with of data involving... well... whaever you want to know about evil: Cult listings, connections, patterns, rituals, philosophies, even the odd artifact listing. If Volkarus had the entire archive he would be unstoppable.'' Tyraz - ''*looks up and snarls* Volkarus...Leave the scum to me. Iovera, Arsac, you get to safety....This is something I must do myself...'' Iovera - We must stop him, so! Arsac - ''And Tyraz... Nice work, reminds me of something I did once.'' Jahric - *sending a message to Iovera* Your holiness, the Khaxvis forces in the Minas'Drakon are retreating. Tyraz - ''*looks to Arsac and blushes slightly before it goes away* Thank you, Mistress Arsac. I'm glad I bring you back happy memories.'' Blood Dragon - Not to rain on your parade but the Khaxvis aren't exactly retreating. Tyraz - ''Volkarus must be stopped. I wish not for you to get hurt, Iovera...'' Blooed Dragon - Several khaxvis managed to teleport inside the palace walls and- *static* Jahric - ''My holiness, these Khaxvis are moving to the... palace?'' Tyraz - *hears the Blood Dragon over the comm and then places Iovera down* Volkarus is inside the palace...I just know it....He told this to me. Arsac - ''Uriel would rather die than let anyone take his throne or his family. If nothing else he would make a last stand in the throne room.'' Iovera - ''We must go! Quickly!'' Arsac - ''My place is here, i need to make sure the archcleric is unharmed. Go!'' Iovera - Who, me? Arsac - I said Arch-cleric, of the cult. Iovera - Good.

Tyraz teleported directly inside, cying out to find Volkarus. Tthe palace interior was ruined. What were once lavish and gilded hallways were staned with blood and scored by gunfire. The bodies of both Blood Dragons and servants littered the hallways - it was a massacre. As tyraz travels deeper, cleaving any descended Khaxvis that get in his way, he reaches the throne room; the clash of swords and the roar of gunfire could be heard inside and he feared the worst. Uriel and what seemed like a small army of Blood Dragons were defending the throne with Uriel right in the middle. Volkarus had sent his honour gaurd to fight them but he was nowhere to be seen. Jahric and Iovera approached from outside and fighting what they could. Tyraz cut his way through the Honour guard to uriel who held his hand up as a sign that Tyraz was friendly.

Tyraz - Uriel, are you okay? Jahric - *fires a plasma gun at honour guard* It does not do anything... Uriel - I'm fine, he's our our side captain. Jahric - Greetings, lord Ultanos. Uriel - Salutations.

Tyraz turns to Jahric and nods to him before turning back to Uriel

Captain - ''Paragon, Alensia has not reached us... perhaps we should fear the worst.'' Uriel - Alensia would rather die than leave her clutch... Tyraz - ''Alensia....Alensia! Volkarus, that bastard!'' Iovera - I will follow.

Tyraz teleported to Alensia's chambers as Iovera and Jahric followed behind, inside she was huddling five hatchlings, none of them older than seven years and in the corner of the room was a dead dagorian, his head nowhere in sight. As Tyraz approaches her she draws a fusion pistol, pointing it in his direction and stuttering in fear.

Alensia - ''Stay back! You're one of them!'' Tyraz - ''Calm down! I'm here to save you, not kill you! Volkarus will be here soon....Unless his devilish plots have misled me again....'' Iovera - ...Who is that? Alensia - ''He... he tried to take my children, so I shot him. You're coloured like them and you are not my guards, what have you done!'' Iovera - ''This... Zazane is with us.'' Tyraz - It is my fault they are here....I am only trying to correct a mistake... Alensia - ''You betrayed Uriel's trust and your kind bring death. why should I trust you!'' Tyraz - Because currently I am the only one able to bring Volkarus and the Khaxvis down! Hatchling - ''Mother... If the demon-man is with dem why hasn't he hit you yet?'' Iovera - He is with us, child. Alensia - ''Septis is right... If you were with Volkarus I would have been dead.'' Tyraz - ''Mhmm. Now, since he is not here...Can anybody contact Uriel?'' Alensia - ''Is he still alive? where is he?'' Blood Dragon - ''Mistress, thank the lifeafather you are safe. *A demonic roar echoes through the hallways*'' Iovera - 'Volkarus!'' Blood Dragon - ''I only just avoided him on my way here... He's not one of our kind anymore...'' Tyraz - ''Grrr.....At last, I have found you.... *Tyraz pushes past the Blood Dragon and readies himself for battle* You lot stay here...'' Alensia - ...Alright. Septis - Is the demon-man going to fight the other bad ones? Alensia - Yes child, everything will be fine... Tyraz - ''Alensia, Jahric.....Iovera, I do not wish for your deaths. I will fight this beast alone...'' Iovera - ''Let the Messengers and Spode protect you... Tyraz.''

Tyraz stormed dwon the hallway back towards the throne room. Over come with rage his chest was pumping with pace that with every step he snorted. The many scars that covered his body glowed with a deep, bright crimson. When he teleports inside he notices that every blood dragon in the room is dead, the walls are scarred and broken and the cloth that once hung from the ceiling was tapered and charred. Volkarus - now in full demon form and towering over the bodies - stood in the centre of it all, his hand firmly wrapped around Uriel and a menacing grin spread across his face as he watched his adversary squirm in vain.

Tyraz - Volkarus, put him down....NOW! Volkarus - ''I don't answer to you anyomre Tyraz.... Forty-thousand years of hiding and running and today the pretender paragon dies!'' Tyraz - Put him down or I swear to Umbrux that I will show you no mercy! Volkarus - ''You have no idea how much I have wanted to bury a dagger into this whelp's heart. Today I avenge my ancestors' execution!''

Tyraz transforms once again into a huge demon, spreading his wings and being engulfed in black energy. In response Volkarus smiles before impaling Uriel's stomach with claws of shadow before dropping him and leaving him slowly dying of his wounds.

Volkarus - ''Yes... let the gods battle Tyraz.'' Tyraz - You are no god, Volkarus, only a mistake....

Tyras swings his claws at Volkarus's face but the creature siply teleports away from the blow before digging his claws into Tyraz' back. Tyraz manages to grab Volkarus by the neck and throws him over his shoulder and against a wall.

Volkarus - ''You may be a more powerful demon Tyraz.. but prior to my rebirth I was already the better man! Forty milennia of improvment has led to the being you see before you!'' Tyraz - Only by my hand have you achieved such a state! Volkarus - I am superior!

As volkarus lay in the hole the ceiling cracked, VOlkarus telekinetically lifted debris aroudn him before sending it flying towards Tyraz

Volkarus - Ultanos and their ilk never considered what power could be unlocked within their own cells, why do you think my kind looked so different from him even before the ritual? Tyraz - ''Wrong! You have unlocked THE WRATH OF ZAZANE!! MILLIONS OF YEARS OF RAGE AND ANGER.....I AM ANGER INCARNATE!!'' Volkarus - ''You are NOTHING ZAZANE! A RELIC FROM A RUINED AGE.''

Tyraz grabs Volakrus by the throat before throwing him through the doors and out into the hallway. As he hits the ground he teleports behind Tyraz, wraps his arms around te neck and throttles the Zazane.

Tyraz - ''ZAZANE HAVE ALWAYS BEEN SUPERIOR! BREEK HAS ALWAYS BEEN SUPERIOR!! I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN SUPERIOR!!!'' Volkarus - ''YOUR TIME IS OVER ZAZANE! THE IMERPIUM WILL BECOME MORE POWERFUL THEN EVER UNDER MY COMMAND''

As the two of them struggle they drag each other around the room before Tyraz kicks Volkarus out of his grip and draws the firesowr,d jabbing it into VOlkarus' stomach. Knowing that with the sword was his bane Volakrus roared with rage, he then submitted; telling Tyraz he had won this battle before teleporting away. Afterward, Tyraz let out a pant of relief and returns to Zazane form with Volkarus' blood staining the blade. Uriel lay at the steps of his throne, his body was limp and he was hyperventilating, bleeding from the stomach and overwhelmed with pain. Tyraz walked over to assist, placing his hand over the wound. Uriel could bearly speak.

Uriel - Ty... Tyraz - Sssh, Uriel....Do not speak, your strength is needed.... Uriel - ''Alensia... is she... safe?'' Tyraz - Yes, she is safe.....Now, please, stay quiet, reserve your strength. Uriel - *slowly pulls out out a small holoprojector for Tyraz* I'm... proud.... *drifts into unconsciousness*'' Tyraz - No.....Not another one....

As Tyraz stood over Uriel's weakened body he felt anger and shame over what had happened. Uriel was now dying because of him. Several blood dragons entered the room laed by captain Davius. When he saw Uriel on the floor he ran to check his pulse. After checking he bowed his head before turning to Tyraz

Davius - ''...He's dying. Did he say anything to you?'' Tyraz - ''He wanted to know if Mistress Alensia is safe, which she is, and said that he's proud. He also gave me a holoprojector.'' Davous - ...There appears to be a program inside. Blood dragon - ''Captain we're losing the paragon. Internal bleeding, massive injury... He's lucky he survived this long.'' Tyraz - Please, I do not know how to work this...

The captain accepts the projector, places it on the floor and activates the program. The room fills with countless projections: Many of them involving Blood Dragons killing politicians, citizens and suspected Ultanos sympathisers. One simulation shows one Ultanos member executed at the base of the throne with one of the Khaxvis sitting on it smiling as he declared such an action

Tyraz - W-What is this? Davius - ''*speechless* Lifefather's breath. All this is archival footage from the Era of the Imposters, of the second house war... It's the real House Khaxvis.'' Tyraz - Khaxvis will die.... Davius - ''I think Uriel wanted to show you what you saved the Imperium from. if they recalimed the throne this would have all happened again.'' Tyraz - I....I saved the Imperium from this? I....I actually saved an empire? Davius - ''*Smiles* It certainly looks like it. Although considering what power you gave them it could have been worse.'' Tyraz - Indeed...I need nor want mention in this part of your empire's history....You may claim that Uriel defeated Volkarus....I deserve no such mention or role in alien history books. Davius - ''Tyraz, house Ultanos now owes a debt to you. Are you sure about this?'' Tyraz - I almost completely killed your entire empire and house....Why should I get such mention as a hero? Davius - ''Perhaps because you redeemed yourself. You realised how much of a danger Volkarus was so you set out to fix what you did... And from what I heard happened in Dagonris you weren't exactly very subtle.'' Tyraz - Indeed....Tornarion's skull was not hard enough to withstand me.... Davius - ''I was more referring to what happened outside. A lot of people saw you and something like that won't be easy to forget.'' Tyraz - ''Oh....Yes, indeed.....THAT is not an image of salvation, however.... It is usual for it to be considered an image of death and destruction....'' Alensia - Is there anything that can be done? Captain - We did what we could mistress, his wounds were too severe and I fear he will be in the garden soon. Tyraz - I could Descend him.... Alensia - ''Isn't there anthing else, what about the Radeon? Because I don't want my husband returning as an abomination like Volkarus!'' Tyraz - Ahem.... Alensia - ''My apologies Lord Breek. But you are not entirely like him...'' Iovera - ''Let me see what can I do with his body. The Messengers gave me... the power...'' Alensia - I don't understand...

As Iovera proposed the possibility of ressurection a feeling of doubt came over him. His mind was cast back to the Holy Shadow War, to Moxix, he could not forgive himself if that happened again. Iovera kneeled before Uriel's body and placed her hands on his chest.

Tyraz - Be careful, Iovera....This is how Moxix managed to launch his assault of undead all that time ago....I beg you, I hope you know what you are doing... Iovera - ''Lord Telfar, returning from the afterlife as a guardian of us all, was said to bring dead people back to the life... Let me see if I can do the same.'' Tyraz - I hope so, Iovera....I believe you can...

Tyraz places his hand on Iovera's shoulder, beliving in what she could do. Her eyes flash with a dark purple light and the same light swells from her hands. The energy creeps across Uriel's motionless body until it touches every point, making him glow a faint purple.

Iovera - ''Go back... to the light... I... summon you... Go back, your loved one awaits you... Your children do.'' Alensia - Lifefather guide you home Uriel...

As the energy covers his body Iovera begins to feel weak and drained, she cringes at the discomfort. In a flash of light she is forced back before collpasing on the floor. As she does Tyraz panics at the danger, cries out her name and kneels down to comfort her, placing his hand on her shoulders and showing clear concern for her well-being.

Tyraz - Mistress Iovera, are you okay? Iovera - ''...uh... Yes. *goes back to her feet* That's quite better.'' Jahric - Your Holiness, what happened? Iovera - ''Everything is good, Triarch. The enemies are defeated, as I see.'' Davius - The Khaxvis fleet are withdrawing and we have thousands of mercenaries who have been left behind, they have been arrested and await interrogation

Uriel slowly wakes up. Inhaling deeply before slowly opening his eyes to see Alensia's face. As he smiles at her she takes several breaths of relief as both of them smile. As he slowly stand up up the Blood Dragons kneel down in submission to him. Alensi urges him not to stand up too fast but as he clambers from the marble floor he sees Tyraz turn his back, his head bowed in sorrow as he walks towrds the door.

Uriel - Tyraz- Tyraz - ''Hmm? What is it, Lord Uriel?'' Uriel - ''I know you were responsible, but I forgive you. You saved many lives and I am in your debt. You realised that descending Volkarus was a mistake.'' Tyraz - Indeed....But I am just a stranger. Uriel - ''Perhaps this was Drakon's plan. Perhaps he wanted to show me that you were not the creature I first thought you were. What made you realise that descending Volkarus was a mistake?'' Tyraz - The fact he would've slain your wife in cold blood and trained your children to be infiltrators.... Uriel - Do you believe what they say about calling my family pretenders? Tyraz - ''No...I do not. I believe nothing they say anymore.'' Davius - ''House Khaxvis were the real usurpers: They assassinated Uriel IV and kidnapped the remaining family, keeping them as secret trophies. Their rise to power was a fraud.'' Tyraz - I should never have helped that tyrant Volkarus....*snarls* I apologize for all this, I really do... Uriel - ''I accept, you didn't know about any of this and much of what they did over the forty millenia since the war was kept very secret by both sides. I am still in your debt. you were not aware of what had transpired. Is there anything I can do for you?'' Tyraz - I do not deserve anything....Except that all records of me defeating Volkarus today are erased from your history books and instead portray you as his defeater. Uriel - ''Hm, if that is what you wish then it shall be done. But I won't forget what you did for me, or my kin. A redeemed hero is still a hero - The man who liberated my house from imprisonment was the same.'' Tyraz - ''Hmph...Volkarus is still alive, however. I will not rest until he is dead and his demonic head is placed upon my throne...'' Uriel - ''At least the Inquisition would support you on that one. Apparently you helped save Arsac as well.'' Davius - If anything Tyraz, you were the hero of Alcanti today. Tyraz - ''*he looks down and tail swishes side to side, but nods and turns back to them* Maybe. However, I am still a bloodthirsty demon warlord...I will not always be the hero. However, I am glad that I managed to do a good deed...'' Uriel - Farewell...

Tyraz leaves the ruined chamber as Uriel looked to Iovera, Jahric and eventually back to Alensia. He smiled knowing that what had been done today had not only dealt a serious blow to the traitorous House Khaxvis but rekindled Uriel's belief in Iovera's intentions along with a newfound respect for Tyraz. As the Khaxvis fleet left for parts unknown Volkarus had teleported onto his personal warship Regante Khaxvis. The wound inflicted by the firesword forced him to his knees and as he examined himself he stared in horror. Some of his scales had fallen off and those that remained looked blackened, rows of small spikes protruded from his forearms and as he moved his quaking hand to feel his chin he felt another fine row along the edge of his jaw. His breating was heavy and slow as he clamboured up. Fear turned to a burning rages as he looked at what he had become. A furnace burned inside him as the weakened breating bacame snorts of anger before he cried out one word that echoed across the ship...

TYRAZ!

Dylans Plans
Dylan and his Meta has calmed down, but their plans were still in place, they still intended to fulfill them. What they intended was unprecedented, unexpected, and completely un-Meta. The Meta of old had been a peaceful people who meant what they said and did what they said they would do. The only thing that stayed the same was that they still do as they say they will.

On a secrete space station where only Meta worked, the Wentals had been working on figuring out how the Converter Bots worked, and on improving them, for some time. The Meta were thought of as the most trustworthy of the Wentals, as they couldn't do something without Dylan knowing of it. But when Dylan sent the message, they ceased to be trustworthy to the Wentals.

Over the time working with and on the Converter Bots, the Meta had been able to reduce the death ratio to a mere .02% of the life converted. Still a significant amount on a planetary scale, but small enough that the biospheres of planets converted would remain intact. They had also figured out how to turn them on and off at will. When Dylan sent his message to secretly send a sample to an even more top secret lab, one built by the Wentals solely, they did so.

Dylans intent was obvious to the Meta, and they agreed. Only when the Wentals could spread to planets without destroying the biosphere could they truly survive in the universe. So Dylan tested the Converter Bots on an uninhabited planet, with stunning success. Dylan then tried it out on a planet with tribal life, with even greater success. Finally, a planet with a civilization, also with great success. Now that he knew the Converter Bots worked and were capable of converting sapient creatures and even civilizations without destroying them, he needed only one final test before he could risk revealing his idea to the Wental Council: he needed a space-empire to be tested on.

Weights and Measures
A single ship of Draconis manufacture approaches Shellis. The cities are filled with rain and lights that illuminate the dark planet as the ship approches the royal palace.

Captain - Shellis spire, this is TNSS Elloris requesting permission to dock. Shellious Android -Request granted. Open hangers.

Alessa wore a breathing mask. As the shuttle door opens she felt uneasy in her new surroundings.

Edoshai - Greetings. you must be the diplomat of the draconis. Alessa - *studders* Yes *bows* I am Alessa Ultanos, daughter of Uriel the sixteenth. Edoshai- Pleasure. *walks towards the palace gates* Please come this way and we can disscuss the trade between the imperiums Alessa - Of course. Who are you may I ask? Edoshai - I am emperor edoshai of the shellious imperium. My power extents to all of the empire along with the senate and grand council. I am one of the only 2 royal members left. Untill my son has children of his own, the empire will stay in my command. Alessa - That is quite a contrast to my house, the Ultanos number in the thousands. Edoshai - Well even so, our civilizations are not really that different. Im sure you have many question now let us continue to the task at hand. The shellious trade routes can easily become major importance if your emperor allows the linking to the draconis routes. Alessa - Would it affect trade to mention that goods values within our imperium are state-controlled? Edoshai - Not really. Or at least I don't think so. The shellious imperium offers droids works, tourism, and technology. Alessa - I am relieved to hear. The bureaucratic council did provide me with a list of articles not allowed in imperial space. The Draconid Imperium can offer a wide variety of cultural materials, foodstuffs, medicines and technology. Edoshai - Food and medicine are hard to make with material sythasis. And culture is impssible to do. I am glad to hear that we both can improve eachother's imperiums. Most people focus on troops and war without thinking about the population. Alessa - My father is very passionate about developing what we have. This recent war was not something he commited likely. What are the Shellious' tastes in music like? Edoshai - Oh you would find it strange. You would need liquid filled lungs and high pitched voices to sing it and a extra brainal lobe to understand it without studying each one like a language. Most of them sound like smooth and soft with a lot of very loud screeches. You are fortuante I am speaking in your language or you would cover your ears. Alessa - So your people are not keen on orchestras then? Edoshai - Your ears cannot hear it well so to you no. However we have various works from some Jovar and TIAF people. we would be happy to transport those. I notice you feel uneasy. is there anything you need help with to make your stay more inviting. Alessa - I'm just not used to being surrounded by water, that's all. The way you have combined living and artificial is quite interesting. Edoshai - Yes. The carbon dioxide realeased by the many buildings may sometimes cause alot. Rain and thunder, or in this case the opportunity to grow healthy plants. I personally added many corals and kelp form many pkanets such as Earth,, and Alessa - Minos'Drakon, the imperial capital, doesn't have much plant life outside of roof gardens and public parks and plazas. Perhaps the largest tract of open space are the palace grounds. Nothing like this though... Edoshai - Khêt, life. Life is a wonderful thing. A tree can be soft as it flows through the wind and it can also be tough as rock, braking the soil as it feed on nutrients. Life is diverse adn this place would be a necropolis without life. Alessa - Is everything you create synthesised? Edoshai - Not everything. The building and droids are, but the life, the musical instraments, the decorations. We can not simply get all from changing atoms. Some things are more than just moclocules in a tank to be used in factories. Like the palace. Everything in the palace is really the skeleton parts of giant corals mixed with natural rock from the deepest vally of shellis. Ive noticed you are curious. You are a kind person who enjoys peace and harmony. You like to learn. I can learn alot about a good person by what they say and how they handle the memories of bad times flowing in your head. Alessa - My childhood was rather quiet. Well *smiles* almost; have you ever known what it is like to have more than one brother your majesty? Edoshai - I had a sister. No brothers. I think Messan could tell you what it was like. We both wanted to be ruler and messan left out of self pity that she was not great enough to lead. Gora has no mother. He has no aunt untill messan returnes. I wonder were she is now. All I can sense is anger. Alessa - When I was young my brothers used to scare me with stories about father's bodyguards. Then one night one of the captains came to my chambers, told me to ignore what they were saying, saying it was just their teasing. With father's help they developed me into the person I am today. Do you miss her? Edoshai - Messan and Gora are the only family I have left. When Messan exiled herself, I felt awful. I wish that i could have failed. She would make a much better ruler than me. She hates us now. She still has love in her heart. I know it. Gora - I couldn't help but overhear. You really loved aunt messna. I wish I could have met her. I know she will come back. Alessa - Greetings *bows in Gora's direction* Gora - Hello you must be the draconis diplomat my father was supposed to meet. Im studying as a diplomat myself before being crowned. Edoshai - You always knew when something had to do with the family matters gora. Alessa - Indeed I am gora: Alessa of House Ultanos. Gora - Gora of House Thamono. Edoshai - The trade route please. Gora if you don't mind, Shuti needs feeding. Alessa - *Pulls out a waterproof datapad* Of course, here is a list of articles the Imperium considers illegal, along with a few reccomendations of what we can offer. Edoshai - Not too many things on this list. This list says something about military. There are some things that i must say are not for sale. *pulls out a hologram of a large starship* This type of weaopn is known as a star buster. They can destroy enire systems. Another is the orbital defense units. They are shellious imperium only. We cannot risk giving that techology to anyone. Not even the wentals. Alessa - Understood. I am well-aware of how dangerous Masuri can be.. have you been informed of recent events? Edoshai - Yes i have. Masuri is a great person. I hope he can get through this. With the war, the wentals, the lost arti...neverimind you already knwo this stuff. Right? Anyway the trade information wil be sent to.

On the the provided datapad the word 'Self-Replicating Nanorobots' Is seen under 'banned Imports'. along with altered Draconis DNA

Alessa - Trade conections can be established through the Wental sector, is there anything else you wish to discuss your majesty? Edoshai - I have been in politics for 9,645 years and never have I seen such a strange occerance. The shellious also have bans on nanorobots and altered DNA as well as beng a imperium ruled by the emperor above a large senate with rank 3 technology and planetwide cities. I am begining to wonder.

Alessa looks at Edoshai with interest

Alessa - Wonder what? Edoshai - In recent years, I have discovered a fact about the universe. Sometimes, only sometimes, thoughts can become reallity from far away. Or in our case wental and andromeda. It is possible that both our races were manipulated by a higher power at early evolution along with several other races. Possibly the artifact creators, or maybe a thing completely different. Alessa - My people still hold on to our creation myth. From what we understand of your Imperium's age for such a thing to occur in parallel is unlikely but not impossible.*shrugs* It could simply be that we have both accepted concepts that work. Edoshai - Well religion focuses on what people beleive. Sometimes it is false facts that cannot happen. And sometimes is is a misuderstood science that recalls real events. I would tell you what I know about the begining but im not supposed to tell anyone. They noramlly start religion wars. Alessa - Are you sure about this? Edoshai - Belief is what it is. Proving something they believe in is difficult but not impossible. The divinarium has, you have your religion, and we have minds that won't accept anything that they don't have proof for. Pity really. People need trust and not many shellious have it. I think that gods are advanced races so advanced that primative races worshiped them as gods. so they are real, yet so powerful we just don't unserstand what they are really up to. Alessa - That would make sense. The Imperium itself has been genetically adapting species for terraforming for years now. Perhaps there is a way to tap int othe very fabric of the universe... Edoshai - Exactly. The builders of these artifacts could have been at one point just like you and me. Alessa - What do you know about the artifacts? Edoshai - That they were made by a extinct race that left droids to protect their work. Alessa - So far we have not found a counter to their armour; What gets hit just grows back and repairs itself. Perhaps, yout majesty, we can share what our empires know. Edoshai - Very well. Currently, we know little. We are aware that many trillions of robots protect them. That means that there may be many. I cureently wonder what hey are for. From what I know, some of them are just simple maps to other artifacts. Alessa - Unfortunately only father has access to the information along with the imperial senate. We believe they are a a danger and have been working to protect them and understand them. Edoshai - From what we know. Most information is, suprisingly in the brain on my own son. He knows more in half of his head than twice the memory of the imperial archives. Alessa - Would he mind sharing? If your imperium's intentions are noble we can provide what information we have - it's a fair trade. Edoshai - Of course. He is stubborn though. *Edoshai moves his hand around a small brown communicator* Gora, I would like to speak to you. Gora - If this is about the ship parking thing, I didn't do it. Edoshai - No its.. wait what ship parking thing? Anyway we would like to hear about the artfiacts from andromeda. Alessa - I can offer what information the Draconis have to make it a fair trade. Gora - From what I know by the droids, the creators were arthropod mechanics that once ruled all of andromeda. They went extinct and the droids endlessly did their last orders over and over. They protected riuned cities and artifacts. They don't appear to know their masters are gone. Alessa - That would explain their nature. What about the artifacts themselves? Gora - They are eather terraforming, weapons, or something else I can't explain. Most are maps or small parts of larger artifatcs. The one you found was just a tiny part of a larger machine. Terraforing I think. That technology is difficult even for me. Alessa - So if the artifacts come together, they would be amplified if not fulfill their purpose. Father tells me there are scientists trying to decipher how they work. Gora - I can't figure out what they are for without going to the robots themselves, which I dout are freindly. It will reamin a mystery. But one thing is certain. We must find them before masuri and the zazane. They would not use them for a good purpose. Alessa - Then perhaps we should work together, Unlike the Divinarium I feel I can trust your judgement your majesty. Edoshai and Gora - Thank you. Alessa - I will inform father of what has been said here today and will convince him to share what we know, It has been an honour meeting you both *bows*

Conversion
Dylan watched from a camera attached to the bottom of a Wental-Draconis trading ship as it entered the atmosphere of the small city of Arnasia, on a designated trading planet with the Wentals. In this ship were the new Converter Bots, and the ship was rigged to crash land just outside the city, thus releasing the Converter Bots (and random mecholife) into the wilds of the planet. It was the perfect set up, as the only thing that could be blamed was pilot error, all the crew members were Meta. There was no sabotage, nothing but a "mistake" on the part of the pilot, who would press a button that would shut off all the ships engines in a full reboot. That would last just long enough for the ship to crash, and would leave the crew injured but alive. The only damage to the ship before the crash was that a case blocking the full shut down button was ripped off as if by accident, which would explain how the pilot could screw up like that. Everything had been taken care of, no one would suspect that it was an intentional crash.

Dylan watched as the ships engines suddenly cut, listened to the distress call, and chuckled. The camera vaporized, and he changed channels to the Draconis cameras now watching the crash with a terrified silence. News channels on both Wental and Draconis sides of the incident changed to cover it in live time, and then it hit the ground. The crash was worse then had been anticipated, the ship ripped itself in half and then started spewing out it's contents. Dylan winced as he felt the crew die from the force of impact, but knew that they had accepted the risk when they took the mission. None of them had had families for that reason. Then all else was swept aside as the Converter Bots started their job.

The silvery metallic change was at first not evident, but as the rescue crews ran out to help the downed ship, it became obvious that something was happening. The Draconis that were too close stood frozen in place as a pale sheen moved over their bodies, and plants as well as animals started to be affected in the same manner. In a rough circle from the point of impact, everything was gaining that strange sheen over it, becoming mecholife. As the Converter Bots passed over something, it froze in place, plants, animals, birds, insects. Several flying creatures dropped out of the sky, but flipped and spun, their bodies far stronger then they should be.

The Draconis that had gone out to help the downed ship and weren't yet Mecholife started to flee. Several got onto hovercraft and fled, but the Converter Bots would have none of it. They chased down the fleeing Draconis, capturing them and sending the hovercraft flying end over end as Draconis drivers froze in place. Back near the epicenter, life was starting to move again. A Draconis regained movement, and looked around, confused by the slight subconscious pulses of the mecholife Network. As realization of what happened dawned over it, the Draconis howled with fury, fear, and grief.

The wave of mecholife spread and soon the entire city was engulfed, then the continent, then the planet. As it spread, the Converter Bots speed increased until they were so fast only a space ship could out run it. Three such ships had lifted off and fled into space, where they watched as the event unfolded below. This was an unprecedented disaster, no one knew how to proceed.

Social Shockwaves
The Draconis' response to the outbreak was swift, in just a few hours they had quarantined the planet along with positioning a fleet in defence. A cluster of Wental ships flew towards the world with the intent of studying the disaster but once they reached the fleet they were immediatel contacted.

Gerassa - ''Attention Wental fllet, this is captain Gerassa of the 478th Talon fleet. You are entering a quarantine zone, state your purpose here!'' Ginga - We are here to ensure that no mecholife be harmed out of fear or rash action. Gerassa - ''I have my orders. No one enters or leaves the planet's atmosphere to prevent the spread.'' Ginga - ''That is acceptable, so long as you do not destroy the planet out of hand. In fact, don't destroy it at all. We need to understand why this happened, if we don't it could happen again.'' Gerassa- ''We have some idea of what had happened. It seems despite all safety protocols conversion nanobots emerged from the crashed vessel. The recovery teams were wearing hazmat suits designed to protect them from your form of life which has led to subsector command wondering ig this was intentional.'' Ginga - ''It was not intentional. We lost 23 Meta when that ship crashed. Why would we kill off Meta to get this ship to crash?'' Gerassa - ''Perhaps their deaths were unintended, it happens. You know more about the conversion than we do. If you can convince the commodore of your intentions i'll let you pass.'' Ginga - ''I personally don't know much about the Converter Bots, but I was briefed that the Wental Council would be coming to try and solve this problem, I'm just here to make sure nothing stupid happens before they can arrive. I do know one thing though... the Converter Bots haven't been active since the Mechanization itself, this is the first time they have actively mechanized anything since then.'' Gerassa - So far all we have done is sent down food supplies, I was never ordered to hatchling-sit the population. Ginga - ''Ah. We were worried that you would simply wipe out the planet out of fear this incident would spread. While I cannot promise it won't, I can state that it shouldn't, the Converter Bots cannot spread beyond an atmosphere. Gerassa - Planetary security forces are still somewhat active and the probe swarms have been ensuring that no-one uses this as a chance to riot.'' Ginga - ''That's a relief. If you need ground forces, we can help, we've already been mechanized.'' Gerassa - ''Speak with the subsector commodre first. I have been authorised to use lethal action to maintain the quarantine. I'll give you his contact details.'' Ginga - ''If you do attempt to use lethal force in a way that would destroy mecholife on the entire planet... then we would have an issue. If you mean shooting ships out of the sky, that's not as bad. Where can I find the subsector commodre?'' Gerassa - ''The latter is what i meant. Sector command is looking for a way to reverse the effects. If not then the executive admiral could authorise an orbital bombardment. Subsector command is in the Valad system, second planet.'' Ginga - ''Valad System, second planet. I don't think that mechanization is reversible, and I can assure you that bombarding the planet would piss off the Wental Council. Besides that, mecholife is very sturdy, you'd need to make an EM pulse the size of a planet to kill it off.'' Gerassa - That is the most likely method so I suggest you move quickly. Ginga - ''Got it. But remember, we Wentals are just as vulnerable to EM Pulses as mecholife, creating that would probably cause a massive anti-Draconis feeling among the Wentals. Just a heads up. *turns to the wheel of his ship* Now, I have a commodre to meet.''

In the space of a few hours Ginga arrived on Valad Prime, capital of the Mathist-1-Valad subsector. Thensions ran high in the city streets and many gave her strange looks as though she wasn't welcome. On plasmascreen billboards across the main city footage was shown of the disaster. It was quite clear that the Draconis believed what had happened was indeed a terrible tragedy. She may her way to subsector command in the heart of Vankobis - the planetary capital - and made her way to Commodore Tanus' office. As she knocked she could hear the commorodre inside. as she entered he looked up at her with a blank expression before esting a datapad on his desk.

Ginga - Hello Commdore Tanus - I don't believe we've met, your name? Ginga - Commander Ginga, I'm just the guy who was closest. Tanus - Captain Gelassa mentioned you were coming, I take it this is about the incident on Arnasia Prime? Ginga - ''That is correct. The Wental Council themselves are coming to work out what happened, so I would really prefer it if nothing happened before of during their time here.'' Tanus - ''The planet is still in Imperial space depite how close to the edge it may be. If the council can help the crisis i would help but sector command has other ideas...'' Ginga - ''If you were to sterilize that planet's mecholife, it would result it a very bad relations disaster with the Wentals. Such a weapon, and it would be nothing less then a weapon, could eventually be used against us. That alone would be reason enough for us to cut relations with you out of fear alone. To say the least, it would not end well.'' Tanus - ''As far as sector command knows the entire incident was an accident. Until we can find a solution that benefits both the Imperium and the colonists the use of EM bombs is to be a last resort.'' Ginga - Well, your Quarantine Fleet Commander was a little less hopeful. Tanus - ''She is only doing what she was assigned to do. There are three million people on Arnasia prime and if intelligence is correct the entire planet was converted in 21 minutes.'' Ginga - ''Welcome to the wonderful world of nanobots. They move faster the more the spread.'' Tanus - ''It gets worse for us: Sakanis house wants compensation. Governer Tassadus died from the conversion along with two sisters, four others of the house were converted and the house has temporarily disowned them.'' Ginga - ''Well... I can understand that. You just lost a planet.'' Tanus - *grunts* Don't remind me. Ginga - ''Well, it could have been far worse. When the Mechanization occurred to the Wentals, we lost 72% of our population. Biospheres collapsed, and our entire military force was simply gone. This could have ended that way.'' Tanus - Sector command is planning for recolonisation unless the process can be reversed. Ginga - ''Those that survived are likely under immense psychological trauma from the ordeal and we have little experience with such matters. I wouldn't attempt to recolonize the planet. Mecholife is a very dangerous thing, there is a good chance that any Draconis who tried to live there would be killed by mecholife. Besides that, you would never be able to feed a biolife population using the planet itself to grow food. Any resources to be consumed would need to be shipped in. As for the phychological trauma, well, we Wentals went through this time about 20, so we can help you there. It helps if you first openly accept that they are still living, thinking creatures, and are your equals. Of course... we never had to worry about not being equal, we were all mecholife. However, being accepted would be a step in the right direction.'' Tanus - ''We studied how mecholife works. The plan would have been to saturate the atmosphere and upper crust in an EMP first before reintroducing new biolife. Such a decision would not be made lightly.'' Ginga - ''...And would end with disaster. You're talking about wiping out 3 million lives and sterilizing an entire planet. I can't stop you, but I can warn you that the Wentals would be horrified to see such a thing done by an empire to its own people. Plus, they are mecholife. We stand by our own, such an action would create massive anti-draconis feelings across the empire.'' Tanus - ''Hmm. We could soften the blow if the population is accepted into the Wental, mechanised aliens is one thing but mechanised Draconis would be treated with suspicion and potentially fear. Many, particularly in the Ohlon-1 sector are still unsettled from the Mecha-Wasp conversions. If they realised their kin became mecholife i cannot predict the outcomes.'' Ginga - ''I cannot speak for the Wental Council, but I do not think they would be against taking on the Draconis population. It would still scare many Wentals that an entire mecholife planet could be sterilized, but with the sapient population intact they wouldn't be as scared.'' Tanus - ''During the Mecha-Wasp war sector command was not above using such measures to prevent planetary conversion. Unlike in this case the population wouldn't have been affected.'' Ginga - ''So you have always had such weapons, you've just not used them in a while. Just try not to use them again until this has been settled. It's worrying for the Wentals that the Converter Bots have become active, we want to study the planet and see if we can find out why they became active randomly today.'' Tanus - ''You are immune to the converters. I will grant you premission to go planetside as long as you follow quarantine procedures and as long as you share the data. I will have sector command postpone action but the planet is strategically important, the best we can do is evacuate the mecholife before we prepare the planet for recolonisation.'' Ginga - ''Again, I cannot speak for the Council, but your demands are neither excessive nor unexpected. They will probably agree to them, and I'm sure they will be willing to evacuate the Draconis on the planet so you can attempt a recolonization. I should return to the planet, the Council will be arriving soon enough.'' Tanus - Safe journey commander. Ginga - ''Thank you. Let us hope this ends well.''

Princes of machines
A month had passed since Ginga had met with the commodore. Under the advice of the senate Uriel agreed to speak to the Wental Council via holonet to discover what had been found.

Uriel - ''Good day councillors. I understand this is about the incident on Arnasia Prime.'' Dylan - ''Yes. This has been all around stressful. The Converter Bots shouldn't be capable of activation, self or otherwise, but we all know that to be false now. I'm not a scientist, but Jasmine is, she can tell you more. | Jasmine - Well, it seems that these are a more advanced form of the original bots. They have approximately a .02% kill rate, so 1 in every 10,000 or so creatures would be killed, if that. Perhaps that is why they aren't as destructive.'' Uriel - ''I see... The Mathist-1 council has suggested recolonisation by saturating the atmoshpere with an EMP after all sapient maecholife has been evacuated.'' Jasmine - ''That would do the trick for killing all the mecholife on the planet, but you would still need to remove the dead remains. Would be a very unpleasant job I'm sure. Besides that, there is no guarantee that these new converter bots are susceptible to EM pulses. Now, about the population... well, that's back to Dylan, he's the guy for it.'' Dylan - ''The population is probably scared, confused, and on the verge of panic. Do you think you could give us a few days to work out the kinks and calm them down before removing them? THey have been through a lot, simply taking them away won't help them, especially not so soon after this... incident.'' Aide - Pre-mechanisation population registered at 3,141,235, accurate to one month ago. Dylan - ''Yes... quite a few people to move. The Wentals alone don't have a large enough fleet to move that in one go, it would take a few days. For the safety of their mental state, we would probably keep them together and maybe even find a planet for just them to live on. There are several such planets that have yet to be repopulated.'' Uriel - ''That would be the best course of action. The Imperium has the resources to move such a population.'' Dylan - ''That's good. Once they have arrived at the planet we have for them, we can ensure they are safe - the planet would not have anything dangerous to Draconis on it. Now... would you maintain authority over them, or are they going to be Wentals Citizens now?'' Uriel - ''The fallout has been severe. Some are concerned their relatives, who were on the planet at the time, do not realise their kin have survived. The cult of Drakon, as benevolent as it is, might turn their backs on them.'' Dylan - ''As we remove the population we can get a full name count. The list would be open to the public of course.'' Uriel - The concern from the cult is that they cannot help these people. Dylan - ''The cult cannot undo what happened, however, they could ease the transaction by allowing contact between mecho-draconis and bio-draconis the mecho-draconis would be in a much better situation then if they lost contact with the Draconis. By helping to reconnect now separated families, the cult can help both the mecho and bio draconis.'' Uriel - ''We will see what we can do. The safety of my people has always been a priority and if it helps ease the trauma then very well. What was discovered about the crash?'' Dylan - ''It could have been avoided. The ship was owned by a rather small and poor company, so when a piece of it that controls the emergency shut off broke, they didn't replace it. Basically, a cover for the button wasn't there, the captain seems to have accidentally pressed it, and the engines cut out. Due to the functions of the ship, the engines weren't able to restart until AFTER it had hit the ground... That's what the black box says at least, and it's all we've got to trust in this case. The button was pressed, the cover was missing, and the engines reacted as built. It was pilot error.'' Uriel - Is there any clue as to how the converter bots were activated? Dylan - ''Not that we have been able to figure out. It is always possible that, over time, they became self-functioning, and these ones just got lucky and ended up free on a planet. There is also a chance that the Sacis, who created the original bots, reactivated them. Naturally, we've shut down trade until we can figure this out.'' Uriel - Are you suggeting that the Sacis are still alive? Dylan - ''Oh they certainly are. We were unable to destroy them, as they exist within mecholife itself. Being a solely computerized sapience, they are probably hiding somewhere in the Network. They vanished shortly after the mechanization.'' Uriel - ''I see... The population are worried about a repeat incident, even after this matter is resolved there will still be after-effects, Do you propose anything?'' Dylan - ''We have always been studying the Converter Bots, and we have long known of their vulnerability to EM Pulses. These new ones, if they are based on the original, should have the same flaw. However, we cannot be sure of it. As of right now, keeping trade to a minimum while we do some testing on the newer Converter Bots is the only thing we can do.'' Uriel - ''If you accept we can help with the research. We have robotic labs in several locations for studying biohazards like this.'' Dylan - So long as you are willing to take the risk, and we won't be held responsible if something goes wrong, we will be happy to accept your aid. Uriel - Much appreciated, and i'm sure our scientists will understand the risks. Jasmine - ''We will be working as fast as we can on our side too. If we're lucky one of us will figure out a way to prevent this from ever happening again.'' Uriel - If there is nothing else i would like to consider this meeting adjourned. Dylan - ''There is one last detail. I believe you had family here. Will they expect to be given better supplies or be treated differently for it?''

Uriel's mouth quaked at the news, his lip quaked and he felt a chill piece his heart. Horrified to learn that part of his brood had been either bee converted or killed.

Uriel - ''What? I was never... *sigh* I suppose they would.'' Dylan - ''And would they understand if they didn't get this right away? We will, of course, have one of them become part of the sub-council, which does most of the governing in the Wentals and ensures no species be forgotten, but will they want to be part of the upper council?'' Uriel - My family have always been just rulers, it would be sensible. Dylan - ''Very well. We will work out the details with them personally.''

As the conversation finished and the link was terminated Uriel was silent in his office, his breathing became slow and stuttered as though he had felt something torn from his chest. He didn't know who was planetside, if they were dead or even mecholife. His mind returned to the wars he so valiently fought in. As he closed his eyes the images changed, he saw the marines he knew morph to have metallic skin and glowing red eyes, he quickly opened his eyes in horror before uttering shock one simple sentence. as he slumped on his desk

"Korr... Brother... I failed you"

The Federation's Warning
Iovera was returning from Alcanti, resting on the bridge of one of the Black Fleet's flagships. The ship's communication systems received a live transmission from an unidentified source. Iovera opened the communications link. It was Captain Lorrelas of the TIAF.

Iovera - ...Tybusen? Lorrelas - Greetings, Clericarch, we have something to discuss. Iovera - What? Lorrelas - ''Regarding the conflict in Andromeda. The Andromeda War, I believe is what it is called.''

Iovera nodded.

Lorrelas - ''We feel we must warn you that our fleets in Andromeda are poised to strike the Draconis. We do not wish for any further bloodshed or war beyond them, so we ask that you don't give us trouble.'' Iovera - What is your purpose? Lorrelas - The Draconis, being allies of our enemies the Wentals, pose a threat to us by possessing the Andromedan Artifacts. Iovera - We want to protect them, not to use them. Lorrelas - ''We are well-assured that you have no malicious intentions. The Draconis, on the other hand, may acknowledge their alliance with Wental...'' Iovera - ''So you plan to attack Wentals and Draconis. Bold. And foolish.'' Lorrelas - ''We have crushed Wental before and we will crush them again. Our intelligence shows we hold certain advantages over the Draconis. All we ask for is your cooperation. In both of our best interests.'' Iovera - Sorry, but we do not plan to tolerate the war against our allies. Lorrelas - We do not wish to be directly responsible for any more deaths of your fine race. Iovera - We Radeons honor our alliance. Lorrelas - ''Very well. You are quite steadfast, which I respect. But be prepared for the might and power of the TIAF armada, for we are relentless.'' Iovera - The Black Fleet will succeed. Lorrelas - ''Well then, there is no more to say. May the best nation win.''

With that, Lorrelas cut the communication link. It was silent on the bridge.

Iovera - Arrrrgh...

The Ark
At the same time, in the Kraw Galaxy, the People's Empire of Nelrad had received a strange message from a distant world located between two galaxies - Kraw and Andromeda. The message was a call, a call to retrieve the artifact...

...from a fragment of the artifact itself.

will write there tomorrow

Draconis Mechanis
''You are now Mechanized. That means that the Draconid Imperium cannot care for you anymore. This is going to be an immensely stressful situation, but you are a strong and hardy people. You will prevail, of that I am certain.'' This was being repeated many times over by thousands of Wentalian Guides and Helpers and Medics and Soldiers as they removed the population of the machanized planet. Many of the Draconis were in a state of shock, all the Wentals could do was attempt to make the transition from Draconid Imperium to Wentals Democracy as swift, simple, and easy as possible. It was the best they could do, all they could do. Trade with the Draconis was done, for now, because both sides feared another such event.

Dylan sighed as he watched the families and groups of people walking towards the stands, where they were giving their identification and being told that they would never be able to be part of the Draconid Imperium again. His sigh wasn't so much for them, they would survive, he truly believed that. What he was sighing about was how foolish he had been to do this. He didn't regret it, just wished he'd thought it out a little more.

Dylan settled down to plan the construction of the new city on the planet they were moving the Draconis to. He felt a little guilty, so he decided to make the houses larger and roomier then the Draconis here would have been able to afford before the event. He wanted them to be able to get past what they were now, and eventually even come to enjoy it. They were stronger, faster, and basically better then normal Draconis now, all of them. Why shouldn't they get better housing? He also planned ahead and left space for a 100% increase in population before new houses would be needed. If that didn't satisfy them, nothing would.

As for Aeriu and the rest of the Ultanos Family that had lived on the planet, he designed a large palace for them. Gardens, ponds, fountains, more rooms then even he could have used in his life. And a grand entrance hall. Anything to get them to shut up. Dylan was more then willing to go overboard on the design, as he knew it would provide both the Draconis moving to the planet, and the Wentals who would be working on it with a large number of good jobs. He built the city to be able to hold 7 million people. The city would be located on a planet called "Klaxos 3", which already had 4 Wentalian Cities and a strong, thriving economy. It was world with few dangerous predators, and the outer walls of the city would be more then enough to make the Draconis feel secure within it.

The planet had been chosen because it was similar in shape and design to the planet from which the Draconis refugees would be coming from. Everything possible to ensure that there was as little discomfort as possible was being attended to. However... Dylan knew it would be hard for them, especially for those who had lost loved ones, or for families now divided between the Draconid Imperium and the Wentals.

Dylan also had another duty to attend to. While the death rate had been low, there were still about 628 people who died. Of those, at least half had been parents, and it usually killed both, though why was unknown. Dylan now needed to explain to the orphans what had happened and what was going to happen to them. He had found new families for most of them, but some had been old enough to willingly choose not to go to a new family. A few had been more curious then saddened, and actually wanted to live with non-Draconis. For the most part however, they all wanted to live with their own, so Dylan had made special reservations for such individuals, and set aside houses and money and resources for when they became adults per the Draconis way.

Dylan sighed again. If the Draconis had been willing to give up the planet, he could have had this whole problem settled already. However, they were instead going to sterilize it, and that provided yet anther reason to sigh.

Jasmine had successfully gotten a sample of all life on the planet, but she was very upset that she wouldn't be able to study the planet itself for much longer. However, her anger over that was nothing compared to the fear that had spread across the Wentals when they heard the Draconis had weapons that could sterilize an entire mechosphere. It was something none of them wanted to believe in, and many said just wasn't possible. However, Dylan knew that when the planet was sterilized it would give the Wentals a solid and probably permanent fear of the Draconis, fear that would cause all sorts of trouble for him in the future.

One thing Dylan didn't have to worry about was reconnecting families, at least through communications and networks. The Draconis had made a great effort to track down families and family members of those who had been on the planet when the Conversion occurred, most if not all the families had at least been given the chance to communicate if they wanted, and the new city would have a full attachment to the Sline installed from the start.

There was a new member species in the Wentals, and Dylan wanted to make sure they were invited properly. What was the name Jasmine had given them? Ah yes, Draconis Mechanis.