Fiction:Dark Times/Year Two

With the growing exponentially, the inhabitants of the Empire begin to grow accustomed to their new lifes. Stretching from the city world of to the lush forests of the Rambo Capitol, the year old Empire is clearly one of the largest civilizations in history.

However, away from this prosperity, resistance remains, with several powerful factions, with their own agendas and goals coming into conflict with one another. However, in this time of uncertainty, one thing is clear, the eyes of the Emperor see all and his plan is far from complete.

Participants

 * Cyrannian - Administrator
 * OluapPlayer - Administrator
 * Dinoman82 - Administrator
 * Technobliterator
 * TheImperios
 * Bio21
 * Catface

Subplots

 * The Queen's Command - By Cyrannian
 * Deal with the Devil - By Cyrannian, OluapPlayer and Dinoman82

Unfriendly Space
In the aftermath of the attack that shook the Last Hope, the bridge of the 's flagship was in disarray. woke up from unconsciousness to see the dead bodies of many bridge officers laying where they fell. However, to his relief, his father was still alive and barking out orders to his surviving crew, ordering them to fight against their enemies, the. The starcluster they had entered must have been the infamous and mysterious cluster home to the Basileus Imperium. Just as he got to his feet, his heart sank... he saw his wife, lying still on the ground.
 * Under Siege

Silently moving toward her seemingly lifeless body, Apollo was soon releaved to find that Gianne was still alive, albeit severely unconscious. However, before he had time to get her to the safety of sickbay, a dozen Basileus Justiciars stormed into the bridge, surrounding the Remnant officers, not to mention, Cretacea, Gianne and Apollo. Just as the Justiciars were about to fire, the leader of the Basileus received a message from his flagship, commanding the entire squad to return to the flagship, an enemy contact was being picked up coming out of hyperspace. The ruthless smiles faded from the faces of the Basileus as they reluctantly returned to their flagship. However, Apollo was suspicious by a slight smile as the Basileus commander acquiesced to his commanding officer's order.

Apollo looked in shock at the badly damaged view screen while cradling Gianne in his arms, what appeared to be the Placidi Itinere, the Cognatus Carrier that saved Apollo from Imperial forces on at the beginning of the Dark Times, effectively beginning his long voyage. To his delight, the Placidi began to fire upon the Basileus Cruisers, destroying one under the intense barrage of plasma energy, overloading it's shields. Just as the second cruiser began to flee the battle scene, it stopped in it's tracks, just as a massive Basileus fleet came out of hyperspace. The tides had turned yet again. Coming up with a plan quickly, the captain of the Placidi Itienere decided that he must self destruct his fleet in the exact centre of the incoming Basileus navy, thus buying Apollo and the Republic Remnant time to escape, and also destroying one of the largest Basileus fleets ever seen. Thus, all the crew of the Placidi evacuated to the Shuttle pods, and escaped to the Last Hope, which prepared to jump to hyperspace, out of the cluster, just as the massive Cognatus carrier self destructed in the centre of the Basileus fleet, despite their best attempts to stop it. In a massive flash of light, the Basileus were consumed, just as the Last Hope escaped.
 * Unexpected arrivals

With Gianne resting comfortably in sickbay, Apollo made his way down to the hanger deck, where the Cognatus were busy getting used to their new home. He wanted to thank the captain of the Placidi. However, to his shock, the captain turned out to be a very familiar face... Apollo's old friend,. The wise leader gave Apollo a friendly hug and proceeded to tell the former president all about the plot to kill him, his use of a decoy to protect his life, the end of the, and the beginning of a new civilization, hearkening back to the Cognatus' old zealous ways.
 * Aftermath

Apollo was fascinated by all of this information, but grew uneasy when Voro told him that the Imperial Fleet under the command of was but light-years behind them, and that because they left the Basileus Starcluster, they had entered Cyrannus' largest and most mysterious region, the Unknown Regions. Their troubles had only just begun.

The Council of Miragna
As the new year has begun for the entire Cyrannus Galaxy, Miragna, capital of Cyrannian Radeons, was still rebuilding their original glory after the battle during the first year of the Imperial rule. With Agnassana exiled, Aerlon has taken the mantle of Mandator, at least temporarily. However, he knew full well that he could not cope with political matters, being, ultimately, a soldier; however, he could not cast aside his title and give it to another Cyrannian Radeon simply; most of them weren't trustworthy. Aerlon has found a solution. Summoning two most important ministers from Agnassana's days (with knowledge and agreement of Imperial government, of course) - Asheron Ernae and Quathiel Neroth'aina, Aerlon has founded the Triumvirate of Miragna that would fulfill the same duties as Imperial Mandators. The Triumvirate immediately started its functions; within the Capitol Building on Miragna, Aerlon has started a discussion about the future of the Cyrannian Radeons so far. Asheron has stated that so far, their reputation is darkened with Agnassana's doings. As such, they need something to prove their loyalty. Quathiel has proposed that Tyrant's fleet in Outer Rim would need help, and Aerlon immediately agreed with that statement, which was not surprising given his hatred of Confederates whom Tyrant hunted. After the Triumvirate's meeting was over, Aerlon has prepared a large fleet of Celestial-class Star Destroyers, intending to root out the Confederate threat once and for all. Meanwhile, Tyrant's fleet was fighting against a new Confederate holdout which controlled quite a large number of spaceships. The Colossus suffered damage as the Confederate forces advanced, they were actually giving the Grand Admiral some trouble this time. However, as the Imperials were slowly being drawn back, Aerlon's fleet emerged from hyperspace and flanked the Confederate fleet, catching it by surprise. Eventually the Empire won and the planet was conquered. Both Tyrant and Aerlon descended into the world, where Aerlon explained how hw wanted to aid Tyrant in his hunt. Tyrant was well aware of Agnassana's treason act and was skeptical at first, but allowed Aerlon and his Cyrannian Radeon to follow him. However, he made it clear to the Commissar that any attempt of treason inside his fleet would not go unpunished.
 * A New Council
 * To Battle

Impasse
Tensions between the and the  continued to simmer in the aftermath of the argument between  and  over the contested position of Grand Mandator of the Unknown Regions at the end of the first meeting between all of the present Mandators of the Empire. However, despite their mutual warnings, no shoots had been fired in the contested border between Corthrinus and Mortalitas space. However, Moch-Na wanted to make the first move, as all Mortalitas are expected to do.

With her husband away in assignment in the, Moch-Na decided to send Captain Mornauó of the Mortalitas Dreadnought, the Prosperous-B to engage the Corthrinus fleet converging on the border of Mortalitas and Corthrinus space. Moch-Na decided to join Mornauó, she wanted to kill Savra personally. Dropping out of hyperspace, the Corthrinus Fleet appeared directly in front of Mornauó's fleet. However, it appeared that the Corthrinus knew that the Mortalitas would eventually appear, with Savra XII contacted the Prosperous-B and demanded that Moch-Na surrender to him, and that and the rest of the Empire didn't need to know of her treachery. Outraged at the accusation, Moch-Na closed the channel and charged weapons, but ordered Mornauó not to fire until the Corthrinus fired first. The Mortalitas' policy of striking first might invoke the unwanted attention of the Emperor. The standoff showed no signs of ending soon.

The Infiltrator's Entrance
After giving her command, the Bisistar Queen turned her eyes to the. They had reached the galaxy for almost a year, and it was time to start the infiltration. Contacting the high ranking spy called, she ordered him to take the place of one of the Republic's senators and report back.

In the Ermitant capital of New Puria, Senator Daleigh was observing the sea from a tower, after a day of work. However, he soon felt a shadow behind him, and when checking who was it, was surprised to see the gigantic Bisistar readying his claws. Before Daleigh could scream for help, Catulus jumped and slashed his throat, killing him instantly and silently. Hiding the body in his hidden spaceship, Catulus then shapeshifted into Daleigh himself, and made his way to the Ermitant's government palace.

The Bisistar manipulation had began...

Raiders in Quadrant 21
A lone Vigil-class corvette, known as the Annoyance was patrolling the borders of the Rambo Nation Deep Space Sector in Quadrant 21. With Rambo Nation a protectrate the Imperial fleet took over guard and patrol duties, and the Basileus captain of the Annoyance was happy with this assignment, as it didn't involve getting in harms way.

Sadly during their travel the Annoyance hit a cloacked mine, damaging her outer hull and disabling engines, shields and weapons the Basileus captain was forced to send a distress call. The signal was answered by Rambo Command and they promised to send a ship to aid them.

The captain set his crew to rapair duties when all of a sudden a lone, purple colored saucer like vessel approached the Annoyance. The Basileus captain didn't recognise the designs and hailed them. The unknown ship didn't respond back and instead fire two missles, rocketing the ships with explosion. The pressure from the missle overloaded consoles, pipes erupted and the Annoyance was filled with a curtain of smoke. The captain noticed energy readings in the cargo bay, and identified them as transporter signals, like the Rambo use onboard their vessels and stations. Contacting Rambo Command again he told them what happened and asked once again for aid, sadly for the captain a wolf-like shaped appeared behind him and grabbed the Basileus by the neck. The unfortunate captain tried to fight back, but the wolf-like creature, known as a Kzishaya ripped off the head of the Basileus captain and smashed it into the console, breaking contact.

Disgusted Rambo Command informed Imperial Command of the event and also gave the footage to the Imperials.

Incursions within the Quadrants
In the Quadrant Galaxies various troubles were rising. With the Quadrantia Grox attacking the Serpentaxy the nations of Quadrant 82 feared the Grox might come to their own territories.

Further more it seemed the Yudimaran allied another species and began constructing somekind of portal. Also the unknown threat attacked another Rambo vessels- the USS Eagle and destroyed the ship and killed the entire crew, including Captain Ramikku. Also rumors reached Rambo Command about a possible internal rebellion that a private fleet wanted to engage the Empire, not knowing the strenght of them. Sadly, to complicate matter more the Hutters attacked the Rambo Nation K-7 space station and conquered it with intensions to invade the Rambo Nation Quadrant 89 colonial sector. As such, with Garlboz refusing to listen to Ramashe her advise she decided to inform the Emperor himself.

Together with Garlboz and Kya they informed the Emperor about the troubles. Kya informed the Emperor, while both Garlboz and Ramshe listened (-Garlboz ordered Kya to inform the Emperor to escape his wrath). Instead Garlboz was scolded at by the Emperor and warned him to deal with the situation, or the full might of the Imperial Navy will decent upon Quadrant 82. Afterwards all three were left in confusion, this could mean a serious disaster for the Quadrants if they failed.

The Executor
, supreme commander of the Imperial Navy was called back to from his existing deployment in the. Zillum was glad to get away from the Quadrants, having no desire to serve his career on patrol duty. He was also curious as to why he was called to the famous shipyards, perhaps his flagship, the Exactor was to be refitted with more destructive weaponry. However, as soon as he arrived at the shipyards, he saw that this was not the case.

Looming high over the planet's surface was the largest ship he had ever seen, a massive Star Dreadnought that must have been over thirty kilometres long, surrounded by the already deadly s, which looked like mere shuttles compared to the Dreadnought. Eventually, an Imperial AI, taking the form of a female Ortella appeared on the bridge, telling Zillum that the ship's name was the Executor, the first Executor-class Star Dreadnought, with weaponry capable of conquering entire sectors. It would serve as the flagship of the Imperial Navy, with Zillum at it's helm.

Eventually taking a shuttle to dock with the Executor, Zillum received his next orders. To take the Executor to the to lay waste to any enemy that dares attack the great Cyrannian Empire.

Freedom under Tyranny
Agnassana was sitting in her chair on a small planet in the Quadrants, enjoying the view of summer skies and thinking about her future. As much as she hated how did the events turn out, she has found her new position suitable for her ambitions. Now a minister in the Imperial Intelligence, she had large powers now, and she knew how both to increase her own power and to please the Emperor, regaining his trust in her. Being a Radeon, she knew many things about - nationalist movements in  space included. She also knew about these movements' support from the leader of Imperions, Autarch Vizinath. All of this could be manipulated in the name of the Empire.

In his office on Imalith, Vizinath has recieved a hologram of a Rambo in grey clothings - one of Agnassana's agents, Ramlaith. For minutes, Ramlaith was speaking about the potential of working with the Empire and how it could help Imperions to protect their sovereignity and freedom. Vizinath, waiting for the moment he could finally lead his people out of the Divinarium, has quickly agreed to sign a pact between the Cyrannian Empire and Imperions. Both sides have, however, agreed that their alliance should remain secret, for the good of all.

In a few days, Vizinath has broadcasted a passionate speech across Imperion space. Proclaiming his species free from the oppression of the Divinarium, he has announced that the new age has begun, the age of Imperion Pan Empire that will shine across Quadrants with great power. Any wormholes linking to Andromeda and Milky Way were closed and practically destroyed, cutting off any way for the Divinarium to contact the rebels. Watching this event from holonet, Agnassana smirked. Only she and her superiors realised that they were right in the claws of the Empire now. Sending a message to Vizinath again, she said that the Empire will aid the newly formed Pan Empire in destroying those Imperions who still clinged to the old regime...

Battle of Dusavali
In orbit of the planet Dusavali in the Outer Rim, and his fleet members were busy at work restocking for the push into  controlled space. The horrors of the, fresh in the minds of the citizens of the inner regions of the Empire created strong anti-Confederate sentiment, with many calling Tyrant a hero, despite his past allegiances due to his efforts against the Free Planets of the Confederacy. Fearful of Tyrant's seemingly invincible force, decided to strike Tyrant's fleet while it was off guard.

Assembling a large fleet, including his flagship, the "Viscount", Cassynder gave a rousing speech to his followers, telling them that the very survival of the Confederacy depended on their victory. To that end, the fleet of the Free Planets engaged their hyperdrives, arriving at Dusavali within seconds. On the bridge of the Star Destroyer Colossus , Tyrant's eyes narrowed as he saw the fleet drop out of hyperspace. Ordering his officers to raise shields, it was already too late for an Ifrit-class Star Destroyer, which was destroyed by a suicide attack by a Rescure-class Cruiser. Scowling, Tyrant watched as the Empire's ASP fighters relentlessly chased the Confederacy's suicide starfighters. He couldn't help but feel impressed by Cassynder's devotion.

The battle continued to intensify as more and more kamikaze cruisers smashed against the Imperial Star Destroyers, however instead of losing any more resources, Cassynder decided to recall the fleet, they had caused enough damage to the Imperial Fleet to send a clear message to Tyrant. Meanwhile, Tyrant was furious, he had lost over a quater of his fleet to the desperate tactics of the rebels.

Killing Guolivian
Guolivian was walking through one of Orbispira's many streets in an effort to relieve the stress of everyday senate life. Unknown to him, another individual was following him in the shadows. It was Zarma-Picus, the Draken bounty hunter hired the previous year to kill the senator. He had been tracking the Senator for a matter of months in order to kill him.
 * The Assassin

The assassin waited in an alley in a quieter section of Orbispira, awaiting Guolivian to arrive. When he finally did, the assassin lined up his sights, and pointed his sniper strait at Guolivian's head before turning off the safety. He held his breath to line up the shot perfectly, and then pulled the trigger.

The laser cut clean through Guolivian's eye, killing him instantly. Several civilians screamed as the bounty hunter disappeared into the shadows. The law enforcement looked around the area, but found not trace of the assassin. He had vanished from all Imperial sensors...

After killing Guolivian, the bounty hunter, Zarma-Picus, arrived at a ship provided for him by the Alliance government, The Assassin, where the other conspirators were waiting. Various other Alliance agents, a D'annoi, a Cyrannian Zazane, General Nakatar, Senator Torva, and a few others were waiting. They provided the bounty hunter with his money and position of power before departing the system to travel to the Unknown Regions, the location of the Alliance Senate-World.
 * Conspiracy

Guolivian walked into his office to find a message be Grand Mandator Tyrannus. He told Guolivian that he was in luck, and that the rebels thought he was dead. He explained that he had set up a decoy to take the shot so that Guolivian would survive. He reminded Guolivian that he was supposed to be "dead" and that if the rebels found out, they would suspect something and disappear. He told the senator to lay low until the rebels were dealt with...
 * Survivor

Attack on the Obliberator
As ventured deeper into the Unknown Regions in his search for Apollo, he couldn't help but think things were going too quiet. Soon, the Obliberator detected strange signals ahead, and when they looked out of the window, they saw nothing. However, Mortikran ordered the crew to activate the heat-detecting scanners, and soon found out the source of the signal: a Neraida Cube. Mortikran remembered the "Cyrannian Grox" constantly using invisibility against the Confederacy during the, but he wouldnt fall for such tricks now.
 * Attack

Mortikran was surprised to see the Cube sending a transmission, and he was startled to what appeared on the screen: A Libertus, turned into a cyborg. The cyborg identified itself as, which made Mortikran even more confused, and stated that he would be assimilated by the Neraida. Mortikran could not believe that the "Grox" had captured Apollo, but before could react, the Cube launched powerful lasers against the Obliberator, catching it off guard. The Cube dealt heavy damage to the ship, which could not attack back in time, leaving Mortikran frustrated and angered. To make things worse, teleported inside into the ship and roared at Mortikran, before tackling him into the ground.

The Mortalitas commander struggled to keep Khuenaten away, as the vile Marinox tried to stab his blade through his head. the Cube kept attacking the Obliberator, damaging it even more and killing several crewmembers. As he got a chance, Mortikran threw Khuenaten off and ran to the nearest escape pod before Khuenaten could get to him. As he was launched into space, he saw as Neraida Probes appeared and approached the Obliberator. His flagship had been assimilated by the Gigamatrix...

Mortikran arrived at, where he wanted to talk to the Emperor about the incident. Explaining that Apollo had been turned into a "Grox" drone, Antediluvian appeared skeptical about what to think about it. He turned to Mortikran and told him that his mission was complete, as Apollo being turned into a robot was an acceptable equivalent of having him dead. As Apollo was assimilated, there was no way the Republic Remnant could have escaped.
 * Reporting Back

Mortikran left, however, he was not content with the results. In fact, he was quite furious...

Imperial Warning
As soon as the Executor arrived near space in Quadrant 89,  received a transmission from the Emperor, who commanded Zillum to annihilate the Hutter Outer Colony of Tigma IV as a show of force and a warning for acting against the Empire. As soon as the Executor arived in the system, followed closely by two dozen Imperial Star Destroyers, Zillum ordered all ASP fighter squadrons to launch immediately, with their main task being protecting the bombers on their way to carpet bomb the major settlements. As expected, the Hutter defense fleet responded in earnest.

The Hutter Fleet, comprised of several D-5 and D-7 cruisers fought bravely against the invading Imperials, but were no match for the firepower of the titanic Executor, which destroyed them with a volley of hyperspace missiles. On the surface, the Hutter citizens looked on in relief as they saw the Imperial Bombers fly upward into space, but this was the beginning of the end. Zillum ordered a Base Delta Zero on Tigma IV's surface, completely obliterating it and all living upon it. However, as a final insult, Zillum directed the Executor's fire, carving the Imperial insignia into Tigma IV's crust. Smiling, Zillum returned to Imperial space.

Pretio's Escape
On the bridge of the infamous Imperial Prison Ship, Constrictor, Captain Nedaan, a ruthless young Nasvere officer began pacing. He was given a mission by himself, a mission he wouldn't dare question, despite it's unusual parametres. Suddenly, alarms rung out across the Constrictor, an alarm all the Imperials on board knew well from their training, a prisoner was escaping. Dispatching marines to the prison-block, Nedaan sat on his command chair, observing the prison break as it transpired.

Meanwhile, on one of the many kilometre long corridors of the Constrictor, a known as  ran toward the hanger bay. It was too quiet. He met only half a dozen Marines while he made his mistake, killing them all. Running into one of the control rooms, Pretio disabled the Constrictor's tractor-beam, before continuing his way to the hanger, where he hoped his associates would have sent a ship to retrieve him. Luckily for the resourceful criminal, he could see his trusty vessel, Fernei's Hand, which was fending off approaching Imperial Marines. Acting fast, Pretio jumped into his ship, ordering his co-pilot to escape.

With no tractor beam, Nedaan was forced to launch fighters, though he ordered the pilots to let the Fernei's Hand to escape. The Empire had plans for Pretio, and his organization, the ...

A Defective Mandator
Mandator Mich'Lea paced up and down his lengthly office in the Imperial City. As a former Confederate, he wasn't entirely popular among the other Mandators, at least those with affiliations once with the Cyrannian Republic, while those once affiliated with the Confederacy of Systems were turned away by Mich'Lea's aloof and eccentric nature. Nevertheless, the lonely Adelphi ignored the whispers behind his back, occupying himself with the reports behind the Empire's hammering of the Confederate remnants in the Outer Rim. He knew this had to end.

He decided that for too long he was played with like a puppet by stronger Mandators. Within moments, Mich'Lea began coming up with possible ways to join up with the rebels in their fight against the evil Imperial juggernaught. Leaving his office in a hurry, the Adelphi rushed to the Mandatorial Spacedock in orbit, where he boarded his flagship, the Avenger, unaware that he was being followed.

Planned Strike
Rambas and deflecting Colonel Chodecra made plans from their rebel base at Kreeta to strike the Empire. Though at first they were forced to be careful, if Kreeta was discovered before a suitable strike force of space ships and ground forces were made it was a short Resistance. As such they decided to hire Zevracence- a notorious and dangerous bounty hunter for a job. They contacted the Zarbriaek by decoded holo channels from onboard the USS Merced II. The bounty hunter accepted the mission after a payment of over 1 million credits.

Garlboz was walking outside the Senatorial Executive Palace at the moon of Anummiae, under guard of two Dread Lord Troopers. Garlboz looked to the sky as a shadow passed over him. Surprised by his own paranoida feeling he was relieved to see it was just a Serindia Civilian Transport passing overhead. Behind him he heard metal chrushing to the ground as his Dread Lord Troopers dropped dead to the ground. Before Garlboz coud turn he felt a burning pain from his chest, and saw blood spilling out of the hole. Garlboz mused and fell to the ground 	unconscious.

Zeveracence smiled, it was an easy job at daylight. He travelled to the moon of the Capital and saw the Grand Mandator walking without an army of guards. Taking his chance he grabbed his two RNS-5 rifles and first killed the guards before firing at Garlboz. Checking the Grand Mandator's pulse, he realised he was still alive and would probably survive the encounter as well- just as planned. After all the shot was just meant as a warning. Zeveracence heard sirens of an ambulance and took it at a running. Taking a nearby transport Zeveracence was already in the sky as the authorities arrived at the scene. The bounty hunter smiled, another job well done!

The Empire was not pleased with this turn of event, as they were touching in the dark of whom was behind the attempt. First the Hutters, now an attempt to kill a Grand Mandator. It seemed something was stirring in the Quadrants and the Empire was still unable to get her hands on it. Though credit for this also was in part due of Rambo Nation, they didn't really cooperate with the Cyrannians like they did in the old days with the URC.

Criminal Congress
Overview= After his escape from the dreaded Imperial prison on the Constrictor, began his journey to the Syndicate's headquarters, located on a secret hanger bay in the infamous Loktia Resort, famous for it's role in the. Quietly, he made his way to a large room with a simulated duplication of the planet Tega III in the background. When he entered the room, he saw two hooded figures. Only when he moved closer did he see that the two individuals were his old associates, and.

Pretio told the duo about his concerns about the Empire, as well as his suspicions that they may attempt to manipulate the Syndicate. However, the crime lord was impressed with Rivergron's new rank of Mandator, a title that would surely help the Syndicate in the future. Wasting no time, Pretio gave his first orders, the infiltration of an Imperial research ship in the hopes of increasing the firepower of the Syndicate's forces, which were currently made up of outdated speeders. Pleased, Pretio ordered Drelas to carry out the mission. The Syndicate was well and truly on it's way to being feared yet again. In-depth= In the aftermath of his escape, enters the Syndicate's headquarters, meeting with Drelas and.


 * Pretio - Clearly, my absence hasn't done wonders to the Syndicate.
 * Drelas - You're right about that.
 * Rivergron - Be thankful that you survived. The Imperials don't usually let their prisoners escape.
 * Pretios - That escape was far too easy. I suspect they let me go in a vain attempt to monitor the Syndicate. By the gods, I will not let them.
 * Drelas - Huh. Let 'em try.
 * Rivergron - Amusing. I managed to infiltrate in their government rather easily.

Drelas pulls out his cigar, and lights it. He then begins to smoke.


 * Pretios - Well done, Rivergron. Do you have anything to report?
 * Rivergron - I've been studying their government. It's a lot more complicated than what the United Republic was. It's a lot more...restricted.
 * Drelas - Doesn't surprise me. Old Republic's government was pretty corrupt. That's why I quit.
 * Pretio - A pity, I've always wanted to own a senator. Have you any intelligence regarding any possible targets?
 * Rivergron - I also studied that, but I'm a little worried about what happened to that Cyranian Radeon Mandator. According to my contacts, she was almost assassinated. And I like my neck intact.

Drelas blew smoke, and began to light another.


 * Pretio - We are the best of the best Rivergron. Our arsenal includes only outdated speeders and small freighters. We need more firepower, and the Imperials certainly have firepower to spare.
 * Rivergron - One thing I could conclude about the Imperials is that they love to make new weapons and spaceships. Their spaceship designs are unlike everything I've ever seen.
 * Drelas - So we go in and grab one for ourselves. Back in my day as a merc, I never had too much difficulty.
 * Rivergron - Oh, don't you think it's easy, Drelas. These Imperials aren't as oblivious as the republicans.

Drelas blew smoke.


 * Drelas - When did I imply that they were?
 * Pretio - I heard whispers from the troopers on the Constrictor that an Imperial Research Ship was full of designs. It would be logical to break in and find out for ourselves before going on a wild Dvottie chase.
 * Rivergron - We could pay this Research Ship a visit, then...
 * Drelas - Yeah. I'll send some guys to do it. Or I could lead the assault personally...
 * Pretio - See to it, Drelas. I'll send you the coordinates, but use caution, these Imperials protect their secrets well.
 * Drelas - Huh. Trust me.
 * Pretio - In the meantime, Rivergron. I need you to be my eyes and ears on the Imperial Capitol, I'm sure you'll prove most useful.
 * Rivergron - Of course, Pretio. They think they can spy on us, when in reality, we are spying on them...
 * Pretio - Just keep an eye out for those Justiciars. Damn red-skins are now recruiting spies.
 * Drelas - Nothin' I won't get sorted.

Drelas blew smoke once again.


 * Pretio - Well then gentlemen, we have nothing more to discuss. Get to it, and we'll all be rich men. The Syndicate is on the rise again!

Religious Matters
Overview= , an ancient religious organisation in Cyrannus, faced a crisis when the Empire appeared. The Emperor's new religious policy discouraged and persecuted organisations like Asdran'Ari, and they were not liked in the first place due to their obscurity and presence. However, what caused the most controversy is the existence of the Empire itself. It was said in the Covenant of Asdran'Ari that one day, the Ascendant shall come and unite the Twelve - which originally meant the Twelve Colonies but now meant the Twelve Tribes of Capricornians, and indeed Cyrannus. Now that this goal was, more or less, achieved, the Asdran'Ari clerics argued over is Emperor Antediluvian really that Ascendant or not - some, like Patriarch Sanada Dexxon, supported this notion, while others like Cardinal Nossira Pravenna considered the very idea heretical.

Now, however, the Empire decided to change its course of actions towards diplomacy and negotiations with the new cult, and a messenger from the Imperial Intelligence, a Justiciar called Corwe, approached the Asdran'Ari cardinal, Nossira Pravenna, on the Basileus homeworld to declare the new intentions of Antediluvian regarding the ancient cult. Now, the Empire will support the Asdran'Ari, not in Cyrannus itself but in other regions of the Gigaquadrant - in exchange for the cult spreading the Imperial influence. As the agreement did save Asdran'Ari from further persecution, Nossira agreed, not without spite, and decided to extend the cult's influence to Andromeda and Borealis, where it could flourish and aid the Imperial might. When the conversation was over, both sides left, playing their own part in the Emperor's grand plan. In-depth=
 * Justiciar Curwe - Ah, Cardinal Pravenna, I presume?
 * Nossira - Cardinal Nassira Pravenna of the Asdran'Ari, speaking on the behalf of the Patriarch himself.
 * Curwe - Very well. I am here to discuss the your organization. And it's uses to the Empire.
 * Nossira - What does the great-and-all-powerful Empire want from us?

Nossira narrows her eyes.


 * Nossira - I thought you Imperials persecute religion.
 * Curwe - We understand it's pull. While not strong in Cyrannus, religion plays a key role in the lives of many of the... extragalactics.
 * Nossira - Hm... You have a point. The Asdran'Ari could indeed extend its enlightenment to the outer Gigaqudrant. Still, it is strange for the Imperials to be so... benevolent. What does the Empire get from our expansion?
 * Curwe - Your fealty to the Emperor. Your devotion to the Cyrannian people. I could go on. 
 * Nossira - What kind of loyalty do you want from us? Do you wish us to worship your great-and-all-powerful Antediluvian fellow as a god or something?

Curwe flinches when Nossira doesn't acknowledge Antediluvian's honourifics.


 * Curwe - Of course not. However, Antediluvian has brought a great new age upon Cyrannus. You would be wise to embrace and spread it beyond.
 * Nossira - I see your idea. In our scriptures, the Ascendant was said to come and unite the Twelve - and the whole galaxy - under his rule. The Patriarch believes this Emperor of yours is this ascendant. The time indeed has come. We shall comply as long as you do respect and support us.
 * Curwe - Splendid. The Ascendant's word, and the word of the One shall spread throughout the Gigaquadrant like wild fire.
 * Nossira - So be it. For Cyrannus and for the One.
 * Curwe - Where shall you bring the One's message first?
 * Nossira - Faith brings serenity to those who suffer. As such, chaotic Borealis and rising Andromeda shall be the first galaxies to join our faith. I am only a cardinal, though, the Patriarch will make the ultimate decision.
 * Curwe - That is good to hear. Now, be on your way. Spread the message of the one throughout the cosmos!
 * Nossira - We will do so gladly, especially that we have your great-and-all-powerful Empire supporting us.

Mirus Bound
Overview= Since the formation of the Empire, relations between Cyrannus and Mirus were quite tense, with most of the conflict originating in the, where the almost destroyed the. However, despite pleas from the species of the Kraw Federation for the Empire to aid them in their attacks on the Tralor, the Empire consistently refused, seeing a potential ally in their neighbours of Mirus. To that end, agreed for an Imperial State Visit as the second year of Imperial rule dawned.

Soon, it was decided that the official that would be sent to Lanat Prime would be, a shrewd diplomat, who only recently survived an assassination attempt. When he landed on Lanat Prime, he was greeted by a Tralor Dignitary, who escorted him to the office of Ina'arl, minister of foreign affairs. The two discussed a possible military alliance, though Ina'arl decided to bring Guolivian to Emperor Aoblix in order to hear the opinion of the leader of the Lanat Empire.

Aoblix was initially sceptical of the Empire's motives, but eventually agreed to ratify the "Cyrannus-Tralo'aear Concordat", a military alliance between the two nations when the Empire promised to aid the Lanat Empire against their rebels and enemies. However, the Empire had a single request, the expulsion of the Tybusen Federation from the. Deciding that the Empire would make a more useful ally, Aoblix agreed. In-depth= Guolivian's shuttle lands on Lanat Prime. He is greeted by a ULE Dignitary.


 * ULE Dignitary - Guolivian I assume?
 * Guolivian - Greetings. What a charming world.
 * ULE Dignitary - Yes, yes it is but we don't have time for flattery. Our minister of foreign affairs Lord Ina'arl wishes to speak with you.
 * Guolivian - Very well. Take me to him.
 * ULE Dignitary - Follow me and don't mind the guards. Also, don't touch anything.

The ULE dignitary leads Gualivian into the palace and several armed guards trail behind.


 * Guolivian - You take your security seriously. I can understand why.
 * ULE Dignitary - Many wish for the end for the United Lanat Empire. With various rebel groups coming out of the woodworks and now the United Mirus Council calling against us we cannot be too careful.
 * Guolivian - I see. Primitives often desire to see the end of the Cyrannian Empire. Fools.
 * ULE Dignitary - We are here. Just go through the door and Lord Ina'arl will be waiting for you.

Guolivian enters the room and bows slightly upon seeing Ina'arl.


 * Ina'arl - Welcome. Take a seat, please.

Guolivian takes a seat.


 * Guolivian - Now, we have much to discuss.
 * Ina'arl - Indeed we do. Now, it seems you want to form a military alliance between the Galactic Empire of Cyrannus and United Lanat Empire correct?
 * Guolivian - It would seem logical. However, we do have a few parametres.
 * Ina'arl - Very well.
 * Guolivian - The most pressing matter is the presence of the primitives from Bunsen in the Mirus Galaxy. And your alliance with them.
 * Ina'arl - Our alliance with the TIAF was strictly of political nature. We do not think much of them.
 * Guolivian - Well then. I assume it wouldn't be too much of a bother if you swapped their alliance with one with us.
 * Ina'arl - We could work something out.
 * Guolivian - Splendid. I recommend the expulsion of the Tybusen from Mirus.
 * Ina'arl - We will do our best to provide political pressure for them to leave the galaxy.
 * Guolivian - Yes, I would imagine that would be more logical. However, if history is any indicator, they will refuse. The brutes are quite, quite idiotic.
 * Ina'arl - We have our ways. Also, someone else wishes to speak with you before we finalize our alliance.
 * Guolivian - Oh? Who may I ask?
 * Ina'arl - Emperor Aoblix.
 * Guolivian -  Excellent. Shall we go to him?
 * Ina'arl - Yes. Follow me to the emperor's throne room.

Guolivian and Ina'arl enter the Throne Room.


 * Aoblix - Good you are here. I was beginning to wonder if you would show up.
 * Guolivian - My apologies. Now, lets get down to business, your majesty.
 * Aoblix - Yes lets. Also, Ina'arl you may leave. You are no longer needed.
 * Guolivian - As I was saying to Ina'arl, I recommend the immediate expulsion of the Tybusen from Mirus. That is the only condition of our request.
 * Aoblix - Ah yes the Tybusen. They are a troublesome lot.
 * Aoblix - With enough political pressure they should leave. Besides the Mirus galaxy is a very dangerous place and things tend to happen.
 * Guolivian - Excellent. In that case, the Empire will ratify the Cyrannus-Tralo'aear Concordat, with your approvement.
 * Aoblix - Very well but there is one thing. So far everything has been to the advancement of the Galactic Empire of Cyrannus' political goals. What is in it for us? We are not like the Kraw races that can be so easily manipulated into the wills of foreign powers.
 *  Guolivian - Ah. I was hoping we'd come to that. Ratify this concordat, and we will aid your grand empire in the pacification of all those who dare defy your rule.
 * Aoblix - That would work. I agree to these terms.
 * Guolivian - Splendid! In that case, shall I inform my Emperor that our alliance is official?
 * Aoblix - Very good.

Guolivian bows.


 * Guolivian - In that case, I shall take my leave. Good day, your majesty.
 * Aoblix - Very well. Safe travels and whatnot.

A New President
Overview= In the aftermath of 's kidnapping by the, the was left without a President. In her grief, refused to step foot on Colonial One, not wanting to think about what happened to her beloved husband. However, when he was approached by, Cretacea felt compelled to put aside his emotions and pick a successor to fulfil the remainder of his sons term in office. After much debate, Cretacea choose Athan Apostila, Apollo's apprentice for the job.

On Colonial One, Apostila was officially sworn into office, in front of what remained of the Republic's media. However, he told Cretacea he wasn't quite ready for the job and that the Remnant's military should fully concentrate on getting Apollo back. However, Cretacea knew that they would need help and so he decided to contact extragalactic, friendly warriors to aid the Remnant in Apollo's rescue. However, contacting them wouldn't be easy...



The Past Revealed
Overview=

Meanwhile, the had found the ruins of what appeared to be a  planet, located in the dephs of the Unknown Regions. , Apollo and several assimilated soldiers landed on the planet, while the Neraida stood on space preparing in case of any enemies detecting their presence. The Marinox commandant relayed orders into the drones and Apollo, commanding them to enter the Nagith ruins and download all data from the databases located in there. Obeying without question, Apollo entered the ruins, followed by assimilateds and guards who would act in case the ruins had any sort of defense mechanism.

When finally reaching the Nagith's databases, Apollo hacked into its systems and began to download its information directly into his brain. After this, the ruins became unstable, forcing the Neraida drones to escape before being crushed to death. With the mission over, Apollo came back to Khuenaten's Neraida Cube to resume his usual tasks. The Gigamatrix wanted to know more about the Nagith...more about their past...more about their origins...