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Post by lowell on Oct 26, 2010 13:44:46 GMT -7
Prologue
The Escort fleets of both the Isie and Archaen Empires have been attacked by the rising menace of the Mord Pirate Fleet, under the guidance of their mysterious leader, Mor'Deus, a being of immense and unimaginable power who the Watchers have adamantly denied to exist. Aided by the elusive being's own Dark Cabal of powerful Sib'yls, and the use of the stolen and fully operation Lights Empire Battle Carrier, the Dra'kun, the Mords have begun their campaign of open conquest across the Tri-Sector Area.
Whether Mor'Deus is real, or not the threat of the Mords has made its mark known on the Greater Galaxy, kidnapping Princes Onia Onnetta Farfel-Marcello, the youngest daughter to the Emperor of the Archaen Empire, while nearly simultaneously destroying the heart of the Isie Military Fleet, their vaulted Beam Cannon Battleships.
Crippled, the two Empires now rush to combined their own forces to stand as one against a foe few could take alone. Rising both Sword and Shield the Isiean and Archaen Empires now fight together as one.
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Sword and Shield By Jason W and Lowell B
Chapter 1
HMS Negotiator Diplomatic Class Carrier ship Archaen Fleet
"Slow to sub-light speed," announced Fleet Captain Yaacov. "All Mag shields up. Weapons hot."
"Aye, sir," complied both his Helmsman and Tactical Officer as one.
The stout Archaen Officer felt the slight shift of inertia through the deck plants under his command chair. The soupçon of change signified the vessel's shift in speed. Outside, in the rigors of open space, the HMS Negotiator, an Archaen Diplomatic Class cruiser slowed to below FTL speed into a patrol heading. Around them was the debris field of twisted alloy, organic matter and high levels of back ground radiation. The evidence was clear. A fierce battle had been fought.
"Report," ordered the Fleet Captain.
A few moments passed and his XO turned to him from his own station.
"No enemy contacts, sir. We're picking up the remnants of the Isiean Escort Fleet, but ... looks like the battle's over, sir."
"And we're too late," added a voice to his left.
Yaacov nearly dropped his cup of Tur'kesh coffee. Master 'Sin-Guardian Jan Church stood at his side half enveloped in a dark shadow.
"Ishtar! I do wish you would stop sneaking up like that!" declared the Captain putting down his drink. Jan gave him a brief sidelong glance then set his steely gaze at the Bridge's main view screen.
"Can we track the heading of the departed Mord forces?" asked the Assassin. Yaacov locked eyes on his Tac Officer. The young female Lieutenant who spoke with a Cirrillian brogue consulted her console and nodded her head.
"Aye that. We have a a clean vector. They were heading in the direction of the Scians System."
"Open a hail to the Isiean Forces and offer then any assistance we can give," ordered Yaacov. "Inform Captain Rugo and his crew that we've rendezvous with his fleet.
The Fleet Captain took another sip of his drink, yet his hard brown eyes never left the screen.
"Aye, sir."
"Sir!" called out the Bridge's Comm-officer. "Encrypted Message coming in. Data stream received. Level 5 encryption activated. Reading only minuscule subspace interference."
"Relay the message, Mr. Daren."
Fingers worked over a workstation. Then,
"Aye. Channel open."
A strong baritone voice played over the Bridge's relays.
[Greetings. This is Captain Duncan Colford of the Shadow Class Destroyer HMS Aegis. August Admiral Teagan has ordered us to advance ahead to your current position to render assistance and relief. ETA in quarter of a cycle. Colford out.]
Yaacov and Jan looked at each other with expectant expressions.
"Outstanding. The Aegis!" Yaacov clapped a closed fist on an open palm. Jan nodded in agreement.
"Colford's performance against the Hunns at the Battle of Xerxes is well revered. We'll need the extra muscle," said Jan. Half the Bridge crew openly looked at the 'Sin-Guardian.
"Muscle?" asked Yaacov.
The 'Sin-Guardian's sharp features softened. He hooked his chin back at the screen.
"We're going after the Dra'kun. Here's how."
Every Officer was quiet as the assassin went over the plan.
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“OW! Damn it!” Lieutenant Commander Vitris threw the spanner out of the ‘Rogue’ and against the back wall of the launch bay, “Why the hell are we doing this again?”
Captain Loron smiled, “So we can fit that orb thing the Archeans said will boost the shroud device. It should let Rugo and his brood make it closer to that carrier.”
“His brood?” Captain Rugo walked up to the open torpedo launch hatch, “If anyone has a ‘brood’ you do, Loron.”
The two Orcie captains locked forearms in the Isie greeting and laughed. With the rest of their squadron gone the crews of the ‘Redemption’ and ‘Rogue’ have become closer, even knowing that once they get back to their own forces they will likely be split and sent to new squadrons short on ships.
“FRAG MAN! Watch what you are doing! These aren’t toys!” Liutenant Yonrin barked at an Archaen moving the anti-matter torpedoes he just pulled out of the ship.
“Yon, I think the Munitions Officer knows how to handle explosives.” Vitris came over and patted Yonrin on the shoulder as he steamed over losing the only real armament the bombers had. Her own earlier anger now long forgotten.
“Bha, how do we know this will even work, better yet, how do we know that Old Man Direck will even go along with it?” Yonrin turned and walked back to the ‘Rogue’ letting the deck officer go back about his work.
“We don’t, but it’s the best plan the thinkers here can come up with and I don’t think our brain banks can do any better.” Commander Kie’srul slid down from the engine room into the launcher. The Challryn-rie did not speak like one of her kind, she spent a long time with this lot and sounded, acted, and was one of them, “Where is everyone else?”
“Their getting the ‘Redemption’ ship shape. Those little fighters pack a punch and knocked some holes in her top-side.” Captain Loron moved over to look at the handy work done to the ‘Rogue’, “This thing going to be able to take a boarding crew in as well?”
“Yeah once the racks are removed there’ll be a lot of room. They already set the airlock for the emergency hatch in the belly, we’ll be able to cut in from there.” Rugo leaned in and looked about his bird, “Kie’srul will stay aboard and make sure she stays hot and ready to blow out, the rest of us will go in with the Archaen group, do what we need to then bug out.”
“Just keep your wits about you, and your karackt.” Loron patted his Orcie sword at his hip. No Orice ever went anywhere without their traditional molecular honed blades. They where an extension of the Orcie, as much apart of them as their hand or head.
“Oh I plan to bring more then that.” Rugo referred to the arms locker up in the cockpit of the bomber. Mostly rifles and side arms there was also a rotating pulse blaster that only an Orcie could carrier without mech assistance.
The crews continued to joke around with one another, neither bringing up the fact that this could be the last time any of them see each other, or their families, again. The ‘Redemption’ was going in to destroy any of the Mords remaining capital ships while the ‘Rogue’ was going to do the dumbest thing they could think of, board the Dra’kun and take out it’s shields. After that hopefully the fleet that is left will have enough firepower to take out the Battle Carrier.
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The antique clocks all ticked in unison. As one, a chorus of chimes thrummed the air as a new cycle began.
Master Assassain-Guardain Jan Church silently opened the door to the observatory and quietly treaded in. Dressed in a causal tunic, loose pants and Cirrillian leather boots he unhooked his night black cloak and placed it on a series of pegs near the front door. The smooth sandstone floors of the upper chamberer were a dark color and a neutral base for the collection of clocks, book shelves, framed star charts and hand drawn designs of flying machines many that dated back a full millennia.
The 'Sin-Guardain allowed himself a faint smile at the Dream setting. On the Mindplane all things were possible.
"I'm back here," called out a familiar voice.
The assassin stepped down a set of crescent stairs to a lower level and around a four meter wide base column of the observatory's ancient mirror lens telescope, one complete with polished brass-colored alloy knobs and turn wheels.
On the other side of the dais the room opened up to a sweeping terrace, one that afforded a breathtaking view. The center core of the galaxy revolved beyond the observatory in a panoramic arc. The man sitting at the edge of the veranda turned in his aged leather chair and lowered his nano-pixel pad. The True Dreamer's features, eclipsed by a distant star, looked tranquil and composed.
"I do believe you're late," observed Lord Warren Cambridge.
"Couldn't be helped," explained the 'Sin-Guardian holding up a warding hand. He took a set next to the Dream Engineer. "As I'm sure you can imagine we've been busy."
Cambridge nodded and noted how Jan's yes strayed towards his pad.
"Warp Blade?" asked the assassin, reading the Dreamer's notes. Cambridge shrugged. "Something I've been developing in my spare time."
Time, thought Jan with a sense of irony, was an understatement. Here they had time in abundance. The assassin inclined his chin twice and passed his attention back to the Engineer. For the past ten hours the True Dreamer's body had laid unconscious in the HMS Negotiator's Sick Bay ward after completing surgery. Having suffered several broken bones and internal injures in the Archean's rescue attempt from the Mord pirates, the Engineer's Dream-self was convalescing on the Mindplane where the passage of time flowed differently. In the ten hours his body lay in sick bay, more than four days had passed in the Dream realm, and what happen on the Mindplane was passed on to the Material. Jan studied their surroundings again. The Dream they now inhabited was constructed under Cambridge's guidance by the Negotiator's Dream Physician, Dr. Alan Lann.
"Right," said Jan, shifting to the edge of his seat. "Let's begin with the debriefing on your abduction by the Mords up to your rescue."
The True Dreamer leaned back in his chair and closed his eyes. Within moments he began to MINDRACE the experience. With his eyes still closed he recited a detailed description of his capture and treatment by the Mords, including an attempt by one of the Mord's apprentice Clerics to read his mind while he was on their shuttle.
As far a Cambridge knew the pirate was still in a catatonic state.
"I did try to warn them," explained the Dreamer in a dispassionate voice, eyes still closed. Jan suppressed another grin. Cambridge finished with his body being used as a shield by the Mords as the Imperial Marine's blew the doors off the chamber they were in.
"After that ... I awoke briefly before surgery by Dr. Lann. He asked me were I wished to retreat to for healing ... and so here we are."
Jan leaned back and crossed an ankle on to his knee. The Dreamer's account collaborated with the missing pieces from his own report. The True Dreamer opened his eyes.
"Jan, what of Onia?" asked Cambridge.
To a casual observer one would wonder at the matter of fact, almost neutral tone in the Dreamer's voice, but Jan knew better. In order to access the Mindplane and construct a Dream, a Dreamer needed to suppress their emotions. A True Dreamer was a Dreamer who had purged all emotion bearing chemicals from their minds. Regardless of their unemotional state, it did not mean they did not care for others. Many True Dreamers were married and even had families. To a Dreamer every individual was unique, whose value was immeasurable. Love was viewed as an obsessive form of insanity, yet companionship was a desired state.
"Nothing, though what I've learned speaks volume," said the 'Sin-Guardian. With that he began to debrief Cambridge on their encounter with the Isiean fighter crew, the surviving Sib'yl, Xve San Fe and her rejection by the Watchers. Minutes later he finished with his parting conversation with San Fe herself.
"I wonder," began Cambridge as he thumbed his chin. "If Lady Onia was not taken aboard the Dra'kun, then where have they taken her?"
"Aye that," said Jan. "I don't believe the plan wasn't to take her there at all. Given the circumstance of Xve's escape, the Dra'kun was suppose to be several systems away during Lady O's capture, perhaps to remain hidden until it was ready to strike."
He thought some more and said,
"I think we owe her a debt for exposing the Mord's secret weapon before they were ready."
Again, Jan drew silent and looked off into the stars beyond the terrace railing. He spoke while still gazing.
"One thing that struck me as odd was Xve description of the ship while she was fighting to escape. For a major battle carrier it seemed woefully understaffed."
Cambridge closed his eyes. He was MINDRACING again.
"Given it's size and sophistication I'd gather it would need a crew of close to 10,000 hands to staff it. Perhaps the Mords have only a skeleton crew."
Jan looked at him.
"Ishtar, you're right!"
He stood, walked to the rail, turned and sat.
"They have the firepower ... but not the manpower to run it. That's why they were keeping its location and presence a secret. They need to recruit and train more pirates to their cause."
"It seems to fit." Cambridge looked at him carefully.
"The question now is ... can you use this to you're advantage?" he asked.
"Aye," said Jan. "Or rather, that's another reason why I'm here."
Off the Dreamer's puzzled look he sat down next to him.
"The nano-virus was destroyed in our rescue attempt, but we still have the back-up module here on board."
The Dreamer shook his head.
"True, but I'm afraid that one is much too small to deploy. The completed prototype was designed to detonate over an enemy craft's shields, and dismantle it. The back up copy does not have that dispersal ability. It's really just a presentation model."
Jan grinned back.
"Aye ... but what if it were integrated into the Mord's internal shield generators?"
Cambridge's calm face blinked twice.
"Yes. I believe that could work, but ... to do that ... "
"We would have to get aboard the Dra'kun itself," finished the assassin with his devil-may-care look. He touched his temple.
"Xve passed on to me the layout of the Dra'kun, or at least enough for me to locate her weaknesses for an infiltration mission."
The Dreamer's brow furrowed.
"I don't believe her Highness would appreciate such suicide tactics."
"Don't worry, sir. We have a plan."
"We?' asked Cambridge.
"Aye. Captain Rugo and his crew. As we speak the Negotiator is racing to rendezvous with the remainder of his Fleet engaged with the Mords. I need you to give me the back up model's activation codes."
The True Dreamer steepled his fingers.
"May I note in your debriefing report that I do believe you may be mentally unstable."
Jan stood and feigned a casual stance.
"Cambridge, I believe I'll take that as a compliment."
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Post by lowell on Nov 8, 2010 8:39:48 GMT -7
Sword and Shield By Jason W and Lowell B
Chapter 2
HMS Aegis Shadow Class Archaen Destroyer Archaen Fleet
Honor-Isieans, my fellow Archaens ... our defeat is inevitable," began Master Assassin-Guardian Jan Church.
The Archaen's voice carried over the Officers' auditorium of the HMS Aegis and his image and voice were conveyed to the Officer's conference rooms of the assembled Iseian ships. Including the Light Sword and small escort group that showed up only a couple of hours earlier.
"Given our enemies fleet size and fire-power, it is only a matter of time before we succumb to any coordinated attack from the Mords. After this, as the first and only line of defense for our Home Stars, it would only be a short matter before each of our Empires were overrun and our people enslaved, or wiped out ... down to the last man, woman, and child."
His words echoed down to silence. There were no responses from both Fleets. Arguing against the truth would be an exercise in futility.
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ILS Dra'kun Lights Battle Carrier Holy Mord Fleet
"Once we achieve the defeat of both the Archaen and Isie Empires," rallied a dark voice. "We will begin a campaign to cleave a wedge all across Sector H, baring access to Scanlon Station and Neutral Space. We will conquer the Dra'Keshi, the Empire of the Nines, the Laria Empire, and more! We will build a wall of blood, of bone, and the broken hulls of a million ships!"
Across every deck of the Dra'kun and her support fleet five thousand fist rose in triumph. The Dark Sib'yl crossed her arms under her chest and curled her lips into a sinister grin. The hull plates of the Lights Battle Carrier drummed with the sounds of war cries. Today was the day a new Major Empire would be born. Today was the day she would draw first blood in vendetta. She turned to the Mord at her left.
"Captain Ul W'rgg what is our ETA for advancing the fleet?" she asked.
The Mord Captain nodded and stepped forward onto the holo-platform. His image was projected to every deck and room in the assembled fleet.
"Our support frigates and cruisers are undergoing repairs and rearming after our skirmish with the Isiean bombers. We are also awaiting word from our Hunn brothers on our proposal for an alliance to ... "
"The TIME, Captain!" roared the Sib'yl.
The Mord's Morpheus armor rippled with fear.
"Six ... six standard hours, High Mistress!" he stammered.
Her scowl shaped lips curled tighter.
"Excellent."
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HMS Aegis Shadow Class Archaen Destroyer Archaen Fleet
"Our enemies know this, as we do," continued Jan. "Signaling our surrender would be the most sensible line of action to save needless blood from being spilled. At any moment I expect the Mords to contact our forces requesting us to do so. Given our current situation, and the fact that our Empires have never coordinated our forces before ... it would be the smart thing to do."
Gasp of astonishment circulated around the auditorium, and he knew among all the ships present as well, he could almost hear the angry growls from the orcie across the vacuum of space. The Assassin pulled a Devil-may-care grin.
"So, from their perspective we're going to do something phenomenally stupid, and last thing they'd ever expect."
The commotion paused. He had their attention.
"We're going to go on the attack, and take the battle to them."
Behind him a nano-pixle image displayed the the last live sensor scans of the Dra'kun.
"A plan has been formed enabling us to take out the Mord's center of gravity - their Battle Carrier. To do this will require synchronized efforts from both our forces. The HMS Aegis will act as our combined Fleet's Shield. The Isiean beam cannon ship will be our Sword, while a combined tactical ops team of both our forces will be what we call in ancient Archaic 'Phasma Gladius' - the Ghost Blade, or the Unseen Strike. This team will enable us to disable the Dra'kun's shields leaving it vulnerable to our forces, and a lethal shot from the Light Sword herself."
The 'Sin-Guardian paused allowing his word to sink in.
"This mission's coordination and planning stage begins ... now, with our combined forces hitting the Mords within ... five standard hours."
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Post by Jason on Nov 9, 2010 23:19:50 GMT -7
Chapter 3
When Ambassador Tiel’Drun first heard the plan he thought it the most reckless and asinine stunt he had ever had the displeasure of sitting through. But after a discussion with the Council no other plan could be found that didn’t involve surrender or putting more lives on the line. He did have to admit, this Jan knew how to talk and the moral was high for now.
“So this is it then.” Tiel’Drun sat in his read room, “An epic battle against an impossibly powerful foe.”
“Always how you wanted to go out wasn’t it dear.” Aliarin wrapped her arms around the Ambassador from behind.
“When I was younger, yes. Now though, I don’t know. Things have changed, to much rests on my shoulders now.” Tiel’Drun kissed his wife’s palm and held her hand to his cheek.
The comm on his desk beeped and a message came across the screen.
“Looks like you will not have to worry about your coming demise, my Love.” Tiel’Drun looked up at Aliarin, her black hair flowing over his shoulder, as she nodded at the screen.
Looking over at the display he read it slowly. It was a missive from Empress Kyrin, he was to leave the upcoming battle to Captain Direck and continue on to Scanlon Station. Mixed feelings swarmed around Tiel’Drun’s head. He was relieved that he would get his daughter out of here, but he was disappointed that he would not join the fight.
“You always where a hodgepodge of emotion, Love.” Aliarin sat on the edge of his desk looking at him.
Tiel’Drun smiled and looked down at the screen, “Yes, the conflict continues within me.”
A chime at his door sounded and Captain Bris stuck his head into the Ambassador’s ready room, “Sorry to bother you, Sir, but I though you might want to know. Councilman Chives has ordered most of the squads from the Academy ship to the White Star, including Blue Wing.”
The blood drained from Tiel’Drun’s face again this day, but was quickly filled scarlet with anger. Tiel’Drun punched a series of commands into his display in his desk and waited for a only a moment before Councilman Chives face came on screen. The orcie had seen many battles in his time and his face showed the scars of most of them.
“Yes, Ambassador Arkdabris, what do you need?”
“What the hells do you mean by sending cadets into a battle against a foe like this?” anger seethed from Tiel’Drun.
“They must learn at some point, Ambassador, and may I remind you that military matters are not your concern.”
“Not my concern!? These cadets are supposed to be escorting my ship to Scanlon not partaking in a battle!”
“Tiel, this is not by my choice, “ Chives spoke softly knowing what was really bothering the Ambassador, “the Council and the Empress saw the need for additional firepower for this endeavor. The only ones we had to offer in the time frame given where those cadets. They are the best in the Academy, that was why they got to go on the escort mission to begin with. It’s either that or run the risk of the Empire falling to these pirates.”
Tiel’Drun sat fuming, but could not argue against the point, finally he spoke, “Can we at least move her out of there?”
“We could, but would you want to risk her hating you the rest of your lives? She will you know.”
“I would rather her hating me for the rest of her life then to not have one at all.”
“... I’ll see what I can do. Chives out.” The screen went dark.
“You do need to let her be her own woman, Love.” Aliarin stood at Tiel’Drun’s shoulder again.
“I know, but not right now, not yet.”
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“Winter, you’re to return to the Academy ship and continue to escort the Ambassador.” the deck of the White Star was a parade of noise and movement. J’rin had just stepped out of the cockpit of her attacker when Crew Chief Dregs came over to tell her her new orders.
“What! Why!? What about Cairon and Askins?”
“Just you, that’s the orders I got.”
J’rin seethed, she knew exactly who was responsible for this, so did Dregs.
“I can tell them I couldn’t find you, big ship and all and the Ambassador is ordered to leave for Scanlon in half an hour.”
J’rin brightened up, “You’d do that? You’d be in so much trouble!”
“Nothing new to me, that’s why I’m here anyway. Just don't get yourself killed.” Dregs turned and walked off yelling for Winter, which he couldn’t seem to find.
J’rin smiled and ran over to meet the rest of her wing. Her Dad would forgiver her, he always did.
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“Repair work to the White Star completed, it will hold through the next battle. The attackers, drones, and fighters from the Academy are on deck now and seated. The rest of the fleet ships are up to date on the plans and are all ready and on stand by.” Commander Rider informed.
“Good, when does the PeaceKeeper leave?”
“Ten minutes, Sir.”
“Ok, get me Ambassador Tiel’Drun on screen.”
Tiel’Drun popped up on Direck’s display at his command chair. “Ready and waiting I presume?”
“Yes, Sir. Everyone here is as ready as we’re going to be. We’ve sent over a flight path for you and yours to get you to Scanlon as fast and safe as possible. Seems our ex-Sib’yl imparted our new Archaen friend with a great deal of helpful info.”
“Good, any word on where my missing daughter is?” Tiel’Drun was angry now, but mostly at his daughter who he knew decided to ignore her orders. This act should at least get her removed from the academy, if she survives... ,*No, I will not think that. When she returns.*
“No, Sir. Her attacker is here, but none of my security teams have been able to turn her up yet.”
“I’m sure she’ll show up as soon as we leave for the station.”
“I will have her put into the brig then for disobeying orders.”
“Thank you, old friend. It’s time, see you on the other side.”
“Until then, Direck out.”, the screen went dark and Direck turned to look at the main display.
The PeaceKeeper turned slowly and made for the hyper-gate at the far end of the system. In an hour it would be through the gate and on it’s way to Scanlon. Direck didn’t believe for a minute he’d find J’rin, she was to much like her father. The next time he’d see her would be when her wing went on it’s attack runs, that much he was sure of.
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Post by lowell on Nov 28, 2010 18:20:25 GMT -7
Sword and Shield By Jason W and Lowell B
Chapter 4
HMS Aegis Shadow Class Destroyer Archaen Fleet
"So, Jan ... how are you holding up?"
Master 'Sin-Guardian Jan Church was many things. Master Swordsmen. A supreme tactician. A deadly assassin. Being surprise was something he prepared himself to avoid, but the Emperor's question had done so. Blinking he looked up from were he had knelt on the sub-space holo-projector before the nano-pixel image of Shadrach Farfel Marcello VI.
"Sir?" he asked doing his best to hide his incredulous tone. The Emperor's slate gray eyes softened into a warm smile, and again Jan was truly surprised. Within the past day the 'Sin-Guardian had been betrayed by the Captain of his retainer unit, while suffering the abduction of his personal charge, Princess Onia Onnetta Farfel-Marcello, the Emperor's youngest daughter and the Monarch's best friend, Lord Warren Cambridge. The True Dreamer had been rescued, but not without serious injury. And now to the assassin's surprise the Emperor was asking of his well being.
"It's a simple question, Jan. Given what you've been through, I need to know if you're still the man for this task?"
The 'Sin-Guardian nodded and the question spoke volumes from his Emperor. Had the Monarch felt even for a moment that Jan was responsible for Captain Whang's treachery or was unable to lead the Archaen forces against the Mord pirates they would not be having this conversation.
"Aye that, Your Highness."
He exhaled a cleansing breath.
"To be honest, it's a bit overwhelming, sir."
This time Jan allowed himself a soft grin.
"I'm use to orchestrating smaller, more clandestine operations, not ... "
"A full theater of war?" asked the Emperor. He crossed his arms over his chest and paced slightly. "It's different in the light and out of the shadows. Had it been anyone else save a Master 'Sin-Gaurdian I would have declared your plan insane."
The Monarch stopped and looked back at Jan.
"Her Highness, the Empress MINDRACED your odds of success. They weren't good, Jan, I'll be honest. However, Coleman gave his full support."
"Coleman, sir?" asked the Assassin, truly touched. Master 'Sin-Guardain Coleman Waryip was the Emperor's personal protector. Head of Shadow Squad he was considered the deadliest sword and combatant in the Empire. Jan considered his own blade to be ranked perhaps 3rd or 4th, though it had been a while since he and Grendal had sparred.
"Yes. He believes your knowledge of the Dra'kun's layout is the X-factor we need to succeed," continued the Emperor. "Are you sure you can't fully brief us on that stage of the plan?"
"I'm sorry sir, I'm afraid I can't."
Jan touched his temple.
"The memory engrams Xve transferred to my mind are visually induced. I can't full access them unless I see something within the Dra'kun that's related to the layout. I think it was her way to present the information on a ... need to know basis."
"Damn," remarked the Emperor, but he could see the logic of it.
With the memories psionicly encrypted within the assassin the knowledge could not be perceived from the 'Sin-Guardian by a powerful telepath. If the Mords had renegade Sib'yl's on their side that was a distinct possibility. The Monarch wondered if there was more. Was Xve San Fe protecting herself? As a former Sib'yl she would still possess intelligence on numerous worlds, enough to greatly change the balance of galactic power had she given a Minor Empire the layout and schematics of a Major Battle Carrier. Perhaps this was merely a bending of the rules. He hoped it would be enough.
"Right. Let's move on then," announced the Emperor. He straightened his tunic. "Once you've begun Operation Ghost Blade command of the Archaen forces will be transferred to Captain Colford until August Admiral Teagan arrives with August Battle Group 2."
"Aye, sir," agreed the 'Sin-Guardian.
"Jan, worse case scenario ... this operation must be a stalling action. Hold off the Dra'kun as long as possible. Punish her and her support vessels. We need time to prepare for the worse. I've already sent sub-sapce messages to our people on Scanlon Station to make diplomatic contact with our Sector H neighbors. Cameron Trek will be contacting the Kingdom of Laria, while a diplomatic party will be sent to the Kingdom of Nine and the Dra'Keshi Empire. We're still waiting to hear where the Norns stand on this, and off course the S'abaens have our backs as well."
The 'Sin-Guardian stood and crossed his arms in a tight fisted 'X'.
"Oath!" he declared and lowered his arms. "Sir ... we still haven't formalize ties with the Isaens."
"The Monarch nodded.
"Aye that. Being taken care of as we speak."
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HMS Buckler
The XS Shuttle, the HMS Buckler, disembarked from the docking bay of the Archaen Shadow Class Destroyer on a course straight for the Isean ship, the Peacekeeper. Instantly a hailing signal was broadcast.
"This is the HMS Buckler, requesting permission to dock with your ship." asked a distinct voice onboard the Archaen vessel. "This is Lord Warren Cambridge. I've recently woken from surgery and am well enough to travel. My Emperor has ordered me to Scanlon Station. I understand you are heading there as well. Ambassador Tiel’Drun I believe you and I have important matters to discuss."
Isean ship PeaceKeeper
"Greetings Lord Cambridge, I am Captain Bris of the Peacekeeper. Ambassador Tiel'Drun has granted your request to join us to Scanlon Station. You arrive at just the right time, we where just about to jump out. Transferring docking procedures now."
Ambassador Tiel'Drun nodded over Captain Bris's shoulder. Other then the Sin-Guardian, Tiel'Drun had not had a chance to meet an official from Archea. They where still a number of days out from Scanlon so they had plenty of time to talk.
"Have Lord Cambridge escorted to the Emperor Suite across from my quarters then when he is ready show him to my ready room." Tiel'Drun left the bridge to Captain Bris's acknowledgment.
The lift started and moved silently down the levels to where his ready room and the conference rooms where located. As it was just Lord Cambridge, Tiel'Drun felt it more personable to just meet him in his ready room instead of the larger banquet hall like conference chambers.
"This will be interesting, Love. I've never seen anyone from outside our own Empire before." Aliarin slid her arm through Tiel's and rested her head on his shoulder.
"Other then some strange customs I don't think they are much different then ourselves, My Dear. I believe this Cambridge is human, but if I remember the conversation with the Sin-Guardian correct he has some strange ability to think real fast or something of the like."
"Interesting, you'll have to get him to explain that, I would love to hear it."
"Yes, my Dear. I'll do that. But I believe we will have more important things to discuss. Alliances and the like. The stuff that always board you so much." Tiel kissed his wife's forehead and rested his head against hers.
The lift slowed then stopped, opening the Ambassador stepped out and headed to his ready room. He would get his favorite tea ready and have some food brought down. Maybe some ecklik boar or dritus steak, Tiel thought, then realized he hadn't eaten in a good long while.
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Post by Jason on Jan 2, 2011 21:27:49 GMT -7
HMS Citadel
"You sure you're fine with this?"
"No!" said the two Officers as one. Captain Duncan Colford allowed himself a wry smile before turning in his seat. Around him the HMS Citadel, a Military Class Archaen shuttle hummed as it raced across open space toward the Light Sword. He held up a cautious hand.
"All right, granted, I realized both of you would rather be at your respected post, but I ... the Fleet needs you over there," offered the Captain. A man in his mid thirties, Colford had the rugged good looks of a veteran Officer who hadn't lost his highly decorated fighter pilot swagger.
First Officer Margaret Hunter crossed her arms under her chest and tried not to show her anger. Across the aisle in the next seat Ensign Wyatt Dean did his best to look diplomatic and stared forward towards the helm and through the cockpit screen. Ahead the Isean ship pulled closer.
"Are their pilots as impressive as I've heard?" asked Dean. Colford nodded. "Maybe better, though there’s a different combat doctrine with bomber craft versus our own two man fighters. That's why you're needed as a liaison, so our two Fleets' fighter wings can integrate together," finished the Captain.
"Together, our two attack crafts will add a maddening headache to any opposing fleet, even one as modern as the Mords," offered the Aegis' Chief Medical Officer and True Dreamer Dr. Simon Ello. Dreamer's tranquil features could just be seen over the chair back behind Dean.
Hunter spoke next.
"With all due respect sir, given the up coming battle my place is at your side, and not on the bridge of a foreign vessel," voiced the XO. Colford nodded.
"Clearly," he replied, "but if we're going to be running interference for the Iseans while they get their cannon ship into position I'm going to need my best officer over there to coordinate our maneuvers. That's you."
His XO pouted.
"Aye, sir, but I'd like the record to show that I'm doing this under protest."
"Noted," said Colford, suppressing a grin. He knew Hunter's moods. Like many First Officers she considered the Aegis to be her ship with the Captain acting more as a figure head. Leaving *her* vessel at a time of battle would be like asking a mother to abandon her children. Whether she knew it our not this new assignment would be good for her, and a necessary next step in her advancement toward her own command. He also knew once she set herself to any task she applied herself to the best of her ability.
Finally, with deliberate dramatics she let out a resigning breath.
"All right, sir, just promise me this one thing."
"Of course," he answered.
"Whoever the Isean liaison officer is on our ship, if they cause one scratch on the Aegis they have to answer to me!"
This time the Captain let his grin show.
"Aye that, Hunter. It's a promise."
"Approaching the Light Sword, sir," called pilot at the Helm.
"Open a line, Ensign."
Hands worked over a control board.
"Line open, Captain."
Colford raised his voice.
"This is Captain Duncan on board the HMS Citadel requesting permission to dock with the Light Sword."
====
Captain Odellus Direck watched his screen as the small shuttle passed from the Archaen ship to the Light Sword.
“Have the plans been dispersed among the fleet?” Direck’s eyes did not leave the screen until the shuttle entered the Light Sword’s small landing bay.
“Yes, Sir. Each of the instructors will be holo-casted out to the fleet, ours and the Archaen’s. They’ll go over everyone’s duties for the battle.” Commander Rider continued to direct the ships complete repair as she informed Direck. Her ability to multi task to even greater extent made her priceless to the White Star Captain.
“Good. Are the fighters dispersed among the fleet?”
“Yes, Sir. The cadets are also all aboard the White Star. Message from Captain Xyon, Sir. The Archaen shuttle has docked and Commander Zayd is at the air-lock ready to meet them.”
“Thank you.” Captain Direck went back to watching his screen scroll data. Soon the fleet will be as ready as it can be.
-----
Commander Zayd stood at full attention as the Archaen shuttle docked within the Light Sword bay. His black and blue uniform freshly pressed, metals in order and his gold rank braid hanging ram rod straight from his shoulder loop, under his arm and back again. His Karackt hung in a sheath on his left hip and a side arm fit for large hands sat low in a holster on his right.
Commander Zayd Pandel of the Empress’s Blood heavy battle frigate was a striking battle scared orcie. He was an up and coming officer which Captain Direck saw potential in. The White Star captain and Fleet Battle Master had asked him personally to be the Isien liaison to the Archaens aboard their flag ship, a once in a life time experience.
Zayd only just recently boarded the Light Sword so Lieutenant Crips stood next to him to show the Archaens around the ship. Next to the large orcie the young human looked all the smaller and carried a tinge of nervousness about it.
“Relax Lieutenant, the battle hasn’t even started yet.” Zayd joked.
“The battle is the easy part, aim and shoot. It’s the politics that scares me. I mean I could say the one thing that is taboo to their people and cause them to turn on us. Or insult some god or goddess or or...”
“Breath, Crips. There’s a bigger threat out there then your social slips. Besides, maybe their all women and they need men to repopulate their empire.” Zayd winked at Crisp and laughed when the boy went red and wide eyed.
The airlock hissed and the red light above changed green. The two returned to full attention as did the three honor guard behind them.
HMS Citadel
"Docking procedures complete, sir," informed the Helmsmen.
"Very good Ensign. Remain at your station until I return," replied Captain Colford.
Standing he pulled the crisp lines of his uniform jacket, dark Cirrillian blue with gold pipping that displayed his Combat and Campaign bars on his chest including one medal - the Order of Ishtar, earned from his victory at the Battle of Xerxes. His worn sensor and fencing gloves revealed the actions of a veteran swordsman including three personal Honor Duels. His Sabersaw was sheathed on his left hip. Torpedo Blaster on his right.
In front of him his First Officer, Commander Margaret Hunter came to her feet as did Ensign Wyatt Dean and Dr. Simon Ello. The Port side hatch hissed, slide aside and revealed the interior of the Light Sword's docking bay. His officers parted allowing their Captain to go first, but before he did Hunter pulled him aside.
"Sir, are you sure the Iseans will accept our suggestions?" she asked on a low voice.
Duncan gave a subtle nod.
"I admit I'd balk at the idea if I were in their place, but given our situation I think it's the best possible choice."
Their eyes glanced over to Dr. Ello, a True Dreamer Physician. Colford Continued.
"In order for us to reveal one of the strengths of our Fleet Doctrines ... many of their people may have to risk ... death."
Stepping forward Duncan walked to the open hatch and was greeted by an impressive company of Isean officers. He would be lying if he didn't describe his first impression of their cannon ship as nothing short of magnificent. Already he knew they had more than a chance of confronting the Mords.
*And Ishtar willing ... turn them back,* he thought to himself.
Striding down a sloping walkway he heard his heels click on the polished deck plates of the Light Sword as he stepped upon the Isean ship. His eyes swept the Officers before him and was returned with equally engaging looks. He liked that. The people before him were open, yet not complaisant, strong qualities to have in an ally, and perhaps even more ... a friend.
Crossing his arms in a tight fisted 'X' the Archaen lowered to one knee.
"I am Captain Duncan Colford of the August Empire of Archean," he began. "In the name of his Majesty, Emperor Shadrach Farfel Marcello VI, the Royal Family, and the people of my home stars ... I bid you greetings."
He stood, lowered his arms with a friendly grin and held himself in a military pose.
"My hand and blade are at your service. Honor-Iseans ... I believe we have much to discuss."
The Isean greeting party saluted tightly, closed right handed fists to their left breast pockets.
“Greetings Captain Colford, I am Commander Zayd Pandel. It is an honor to have you aboard. My orders are to board your shuttle and return with you to your ship as the Isean liaison. First, though, I’m to take you to Captain Kris.” At that the honor guard turned crisply, boots stomping down in unison and waited for the Lieutenant Crips to lead the way. Captain Colford smiled and followed. Falling in behind, the rest of the party made their way down the corridor.
“We apologize for the tight quarters, Sir, the Light Sword is mostly weapon with little space for crew capacity.” Lieutenant Crips informed with no hint of the earlier nervousness. Inwardly Zayd smiled with the conformation that Crips is indeed a true professional.
“No apologies necessary, Honor-Isean. This is an impressive vessel.”
“Thank you, Sir. Lieutenant Crips, Sir.” Crips gave a walking salute to the captain as they came to a hatch just before the bridge.
“The ready room, Sir. Captain Kris is already inside with Commander Ray.” Zayd swung open the solid blast steel door and stepped aside for the Archeans to enter then followed behind.
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Post by Jason on Apr 19, 2011 17:39:32 GMT -7
Captain Duncan Colford stood to his full height and regarded the assembled officers in front of him. His gaze was deep and calm as he knew his image was being seen by thousands across the Isean Fleet. The private meeting with Captain Kris and a holo projected Captain Direck went well, more then that it showed great promise for their future. Colford was given the go ahead to address the entire fleet.
"Our time is short. Our pressure is great, but a great man once said ... 'Pressure makes diamonds."
His clear speaking voice resonated across the auditorium he stood in. On the stage to his left sat his Bridge Officers, First Officer, Margaret Hunter who would remain behind as his liaison with the Isean, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Simon Ello, and one of his top pilots, Ensign Wyatt Dean. To his right were the Iseans - Commander Zayd Pandel, the Iseans Liaison Officer for his ship, Commander Ray, and Captain Kris. What he had to say next would determine the future of the two Empires.
"Our intention is to make our two fleets just that."
A raised hand turned into a tight fist.
“Hard. Unbreakable. A force of one."
Again he let his words pause for dramatic effect.
"As an outsider I can easily say that I am both impressed and envious of the Isean Fleet and its fire power. Though our military doctrines are different, in many ways you rival our own. It would take months of coordinated training for both our fleets to merge our tactics and streamline our maneuvers. Time ... I'm afraid ... our enemy knows we do not have."
Among the audience heads nodded in agreement. Arms crossed chest in patient discipline.
"In the past our own enemies have attacked our own stars -- the Hunns, the Red Klan, and more -- with the element of surprise. Believing that if we were hit with no time to coordinate a planned attack that they would win. They were wrong. They were defeated. One of the powers of our military doctrine is the power of time. As a fleet we believe in the power of using the 4th Dimension."
Another cessation followed, then he continued.
"Among our people are individuals known as Dreamers. Dreamers are beings with enhanced thinking and mental abilities, allowing them to remember and recall anything they are exposed to while linking thoughts, memories and ideas in a non-linear, non-hierarchical process called MINDRACING. With this ability Dreamers have the capacity to access what we call the Mindplane. Many people believe the Mindplane is a vast, unlimited mass consciousness shared by all living things upon which a Dreamer my create -- impose -- a desired reality. A Dream. The strength of the Dream depends on the skills, knowledge and experience of the Dreamer. Once established, an infinite number of minds -- sentient consciousness, may enter the Dream and interact with it.“
Looks were exchanged among those assembled as the murmur of excited conversations mixed with skeptical doubt began to circulate.
"Time flows different on the Mindplane compared to that of the Material. Roughly it is a ratio of one to ten. One year in real time equals ten years on the Mindplane. Because of this the Mindplane is ideal for the teaching and exchange of information and training. Educational, business, vocation, military and more."
He turned to his left.
"Doctor Ello ... I believe a demonstration is in order."
Standing, the True Dreamer Physician walked to the Captain's side. Removing his Sensor Glove Duncan raised his hand, palm out, towards the doctor. Nodding once, the Dreamer took one pace back and in one smooth motion pulled his Combat Blade and sliced his CO across the palm. A shocked silence fell across the Iseans as a crimson line appeared on the Captain's palm. Colford grunted against the pain, followed by a slow curtain of blood flowing down the front of his hand. Turning back to the assembled Officers he held up the cut for all to see. He lowered his head and closed his eyes. Next to him Ello cleaned his blade, sheathed it and closed his eyes as well. Several taunt seconds flowed by. At ten seconds, without warning, the Archaen's wounded hand abruptly stopped. Even more the wound began to rapidly heal and fade. The Captain and True Dreamer's eyes opened as one.
"Dr. Ello is my ship's Chief Medical Officer and an Archaen True Dreamer. After cutting my hand he created a realm on the Mindplane, in this case, a resort on my home planet, First World Cirrillia, where he attended to my wound. You saw us stand with our eyes closed for perhaps a minute at most. However, we were there for just a little over a cycle. What happens on the Mindplane resonates to our bodies and minds on the Material. This is the edge we have over our enemies."
Colford clinched his wounded hand back into a fist.
"This is the power of Time! However, not everyone can be initiated to the Mindplane. A form of conditioning is necessary involving mediation and hypnosis techniques to induce a coma-like state. Some have equated it to a near death, out-of-body like experience. For all ... the first time is the hardest because it is the separation of the mind from the body. Some of you ... may not be able to do this."
He turned to his CMO. "Doctor," he said and surrendered the podium to him.
"Thank you, Captain." The Dreamer turned and faced the audience. His features were clam and tranquil. "There is a shortcut we do use to help those having difficulty with this."
Reaching into an inner pocket of his uniform jacket he produce a clear vial holding a dark burgundy liquid.
"This is Viyanide. It is a derivative poison we use to induce a near death-like state. It is calibrated to the user based on their weight and size. We ... have never tired it with non-Archaens. The results may not be enough to induce a state receptive to the Mindplane. Or the results may be fatal. Captain," finished the Dreamer. Stepping away he returned to his seat as Colford took the podium again.
"Honor-Iseans, the use of Viyanide will be a last option, and only voluntary. The time on the Mindplane is rich and deep. Our time on the Material is not. Together if we can train, coordinate tactics, study our enemy, roll play our plans and heal our wounded. We can be force the Mords won't expect. A sword and shield working together as one. An X factor needed to win this battle."
He allowed the weight of his words to sink in.
"Now ... I would be happy to take any questions."
================
“I don’t trust them!” First Officer Rider Nell paced back and forth in Captain Direck’s ready room. Rider was not present during the presentation by the Archaen captain, having been detained with matters of the White Star’s repairs; so understandably she was very adverse to any Isiean being poisoned if they could not ‘meditate’.
“Relax, Rider. Our own medics and poison control drones will be present in all cases, no one will die from this.” , Direck re-assured Rider for the umpteenth time, pouring Captain Kris a drink from his private bar.
“There is nothing to worry about from the Archaens, Commander.” , the holo-comm in front of Direck came alive. Large solid black eyes starred into the room and over to Rider. Chancellor Alextruss Di’Randalan regarded Rider with the emotionless stare all Thiri'aldrin shared. Thiri'aldrin where the least populated race within the Isie Empire, but some of the most respected and honored. They where the true thinkers able to work science like magic. Chancellor Alextruss was the head of clandestine services to the Empire. In other words he is the director of the spy network. Not common work for one of his race, but his intelligence allowed him to see plans within plans better then anyone else.
“Chancellor!” Rider turned and bowed deeply, surprised to see Chancellor Alextruss, much less be spoken to by him.
“Please, no time for formality. What I’m about to say to you all does not leave this chamber. Our agents within 1st World Arachada, and yes we’ve known of them and others around us for some time now, assure me that this process is completely common in their Empire and a great boon to their society as a whole. Empress Taldris and the Chancellors deem this process a must to learn. It would go well to expedite the Esher Project.”
“We have agents within their Empire? Why have they not gotten us the ability already?” Kris spoke without any real surprise. “Yes we have agents there, just as they surly do here, but they are not ranked high enough within the Empire to warrant learning this procedure. The Archaens will become our strongest ally and in time the Mindplane would be taught to our people through regular means. But time is not on our side for Esher, so we need to know this process immediately.”, Alextruss’s bald pale blue face turned to look at Direck, “I task you with this, Captain.”
Before Direck can even answer the hologram vanishes.
“Well, there you have it.” Direck shrugged, there was no arguing with a Chancellor especially that one.
“Esher Project? I thought that was a rumor, a myth, something told to cadets in the academy.” ,Rider stood staring at the empty place the Thiri'aldrin image was only moments before.
“Esher is very real, but blown way out of proportion it’s also not anything you or myself need concern ourselves with. We have our orders and we will follow them. I have several personnel that are capable of learning this Mindracing thing with ease, they will be the first ones through the training. They will also help the rest of the fleet.” Direck stood and moved over to his desk.
“It will do us no good to learn anything if we die to the Mords.” Captain Kris stated standing himself, “We’re going to head back to the Light Sword get it and my crew prepped.”
“Good, thank you. Good luck Captain.” Direck saluted Kris.
The Light Sword Captain returned the salute crisply, “Thank you Sir, you as well,” then turned and left the quarters.
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Post by lowell on Apr 27, 2011 10:33:44 GMT -7
Sword and Shield By Jason W and Lowell B
Chapter 6
The House of Penn The Mindplane Time -- unknown
___________________
"Are you sure they won't attack?" asked Ambassador Tiel'Drun. The man next to him arched both of his eyebrows in what the Isean had learned was a 'Dreamer's smile'.
"They are only calfs, Honor-Ambassador," replied the True Dreamer as his gaze returned to the acres of open Neska Wheat fields where a herd of young Cirrillian Bulls stood casually gazing. The Ambassador folded his arms over his chest. Above them a yellow sun warmed the air around them, aided by a gentle breeze that tousled the coarse black hide and fur of the creatures. Three meters at the shoulders, they ambled around the two men. Their oder, a musky mixture of cedar and sweat added to the heighten reality of the world around them. It took the Isean a moment of will to remind himself that the bodies of he and his Challryn-rie daughter, Amanda, were still physically sitting in the conference room onboard the Peacekeeper, while their minds were in the surrounding construct mentally created by the Archaen True Dreamer.
"Cirrillian's become aggressive after they have grown their first Lance Horns," add Cambridge.
He pointed and Tiel'Drun noted a hard knot of muscle between the creatures shoulders. A fully grown bull would easily stand five to six meters at the shoulder, with its single Lance or Pike Horn extending horizontally over its head a vibrant four meters in length and half a meter thick. The creatures were prized for their strength, speed, and ferocity, as well as their nearly indestructible hides and savory meat. It was rumored that the Archaen's lore and love of the fencing arts were inspired by the horn and fighting tactics of the Cirrillian Bull.
Feeling bold Tiel'Drun stepped forward and patted the side of one of the creatures as it grazed. Lifting its head the young calf named Ieuan regarded him with a look of interest, sniffed his hand and nuzzled it with its brow before returning to feed.
"I think he likes you," called out a voice behind the two men.
Turning Ambassador Tiel'Drun saw his youngest daughter, Amanda Arkdabris, approaching with Lord Cambridge's adopted daughter, the Countess Rebecca 'Bekki' Cambridge. The appearance of another sentient being was another reminder for the Ambassador that everything around him was not real, only now it was for two reasons. The first was the fact that the Archaen's adopted daughter was not Archaen, or even Human. Her meter and a half Humanoid appearance was more similar to a mammal species that the Watchers called a Meercat. No one, not even the Watchers (or at least they weren't saying) had been able to identify her species and believed she may be the last of her kind. The sixteen year old was also a diplomat in training and the best friend of Princess Onia Farfel Marcello.
The second fact was that, like the world around them, Lady Bekki was also a construct of the True Dreamer's mind, though he referred to her as something called a Memory Ghost.
"She is a collection of my living memory engrams. She is nearly as real as my daughter herself," he had said earlier during their introductions.
Tiel'Drun allowed himself a smile as he watched Amanda, who also served as his personal aid, approach holding a small bow and a small quiver of arrows.
"So how did the archery festival go?" asked the Isean. The young Challryn-rie held up a cyan ribboned medal placed around her neck.
"First place!" she breathed out with an exhilarated voice. "Though it was close."
"You should have seen us!" began Bekki with an undisguised glee. Her elegant dress rustled as she raised her own bow, twirled in a circle and settled into an expert archer's stance.
"There we were ... neck and neck with the Jace Sisters, when -- THWAK! Honor-Amanda hits a clean bullseye from fifty meters away. The. Crowd. Went. Wiiiiillllddd!"
Laughing she spun again, and settled next to the Amanda with her arms crossed under her chest and head leaned against the Isean's shoulder.
"Thank you, thank you ... yes, we were awesome." The Meer'cat's smile was contagious and Tiel'Drun found himself laughing at the sight.
"I apologize for my daughter's ... rambunctiousness," replied Cambridge coming forward. Amanda laughed, waved a hand through the air and gently hugged the young Countess.
"No need. I haven't had this much fun in some time. Thank you, Bekki."
"Here," Bekki took Amanda's own bow and arrows into her arms. "I'll stow these away and bring us back a carafe of fruit beer, smoked cheese and sliced River-berries,"
Before another word could be said the Meer'cat vanished into a path between the strands of towering wheat. Tiel'Drun stepped forward and took his daughter's hand. How long had they been here he wondered? It felt like days, though Cambridge had explained to them that time flowed different on the Mindplane. It was one of the first things he had explained to them about his abilities. The other were the means that allowed them to initiate themselves to the realm.
That had taken some doing.
"Lord Cambridge, I wanted to thank you for all of this. What you've share with us has been ... incredible, to say the least," said the Ambassador. The True Dreamer nodded, and gestured for them to walk down the same path between the wheat stalks.
"I must admit I had a somewhat selfish motive. My time on the Mindplane would allow my own injuries to heal faster."
Up ahead the Iseans could see they were approaching a set of fieldstone steps that lead up to the rear of the Dreamer's estate.
"But by inviting you here I could also accomplish two things at once."
Ahead a crestnut dinning table had been arranged with comfortable seats under a shaded pavilion.
"If one of them was to give my father some much needed rest, then you succeeded." said Amanda hugging her father's arm tighter. "That's self centered to say given the threat facing both our Empires, but if what you said about the time difference between this plane and the material, then ... he needed this. Thank you."
"Not at all. That too was part of my decision to bring you here. As the current representative of both our governments a respite was needed given what we've been through."
Both father and daughter's thoughts reflected to another member of their family. Cambridge allowed Tiel'Drun to seat Amanda and himself before he took his own seat.
"I thought it fair that we both were well rested to ponder a proposal from our Emperor."
Off the Ambassador's wondering look the True Dreamer withdrew a data-pad from the folds of his tunic and passed it to the Iseans. Tiel'Drun's brow furrowed as he read, then arched them before he glanced up to meet the Archaen's eyes.
"This is a treaty proposal," he stated.
"Aye. The Sword and Shield Alliance, or the SAS Pact, if you prefer. I thought it apt to name it after the battle plan now being formed."
The group took a collective moment to think about the state of their Fleets. Even as they were existing on the Mindplane, lightyears away the Archaens where helping the Iseans to be initiated to the mind realm as well. Lord Cambridge continued. "Essentially, it is to be an alliance in defense between our two nations, though ideally, more Minor Empires will join."
"The sass pact?" Bekki approached the table carrying a tray of the promised provisions. A dour look was on her face. "I don't know, father, sounds kind of cheeky."
She put down the platter and looked over his shoulder at the pad.
"I mean, a name is everything, you know. Something not only to inspire, but to strike fear into our enemies."
"Please, Bekki, if you would this is ... " began her father.
"I ... I believe she's right," spoke up Amanda. Seeing that he had her father's approval she looked at the Meer'cat. "So ... what would you suggest?"
A cunning smiled played across the Countess' lips.
"How about ... The BLAID Pact?"
"Blade Pact?" asked Tiel'Drun. Bekki nodded her head.
"See, that's what's great about it. It sounds like 'Blade', right? but it really stands for -- Bilateral Aid in Defense."
"The group looked at one another.
"The Blade Pact." pronounced the True Dreamer. "Ishtar, that is better than what I suggested," said Cambridge out loud.
Tiel'Drun patted the empty chair next to him.
"Have a seat Lady Bekki. Your father mentioned that you were a diplomat in training. I think school is now in session."
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Post by lowell on Apr 28, 2011 13:48:49 GMT -7
Sword and Shield By Jason W and Lowell B
Chapter 7
HMS Citadel Main Docking Bay T-Minus five hours to Mord Engagement
"She's ... she's inexhaustible," breathed Ensign Wyatt Dean. The Stellar Marauder pilot limped out of the combat ring holding his dislocated shoulder. Gritting his teeth he snapped it back into its socket with an audible 'pop'.
"Or is it you're just a glutton for punishment, Ensign?" asked his CO. The sounds of mock combat and military calisthenics filled the docking bay converted into a workout area. Part of the Mindplane's initiation process was to weaken then body's connection to the mind. Physical exhaustion was the first step.
Sucking in air through his tightly pressed lips Dean took a few moments before he could answer.
"She's pinned me twice, sir, but I won't give her the satisfaction of making me surrender," replied the pilot with a winced expression. "Ish ... her strength!" Taking a swing of water he rotated his arm a few times and prepared to return to the ring.
"Ensign ... stop."
Captain Duncan Colford gently placed his gloved hand on the man's good shoulder.
"I think that's enough for today. Your shoulder's swollen. See Dr. Ello about it, least you're unfit for duty."
Touching the inflamed socket Wyatt nodded and silently headed out of the chamber. Turning Duncan eyed the single Orcie warrior who occupied the battle ring. Their eyes met and Duncan could feel the mistrust from where he stood. His military boots echoed on the deck plates as he walked towards the ring and stopped outside the ropes.
"Captain Colford," leveled the Isean First Officer, Commander Rider Nell. Her gloved hands banged together.
"Commander Nell," answered the Archaen. "I've been told that you have been somewhat ... stubborn towards the initiation process."
The Orcie sported a cunning smirk.
"Let's just say I have yet to find anyone among our combined ranks who can tire me out."
She stepped closer.
"Unless ... you'd like to give it a try ... Captain."
This time it was the Archaen's turn to sport a smirk. He carefully studied the Isean from head to toe. At over two meters in height she was several centimeters higher than him, but it was her extra weight of solid muscle where the marked difference between the two stood.
"I'll give it a whirl," he replied.
Stepping back he removed his uniform jacket and shirt. Around them disturbances of commotion began to quite as both Archaens and Iseans paused in their workouts and began to notice the bout that was about to begin. Folding his jacket and shirt into a tight bundle he next removed his boots and socks until he stood barefooted. Last he removed his gun and sword belt, fencing gloves and entered the ring.
Nell studied him somewhat unsure of his tactics. The other Archaen Officers she had faced had kept their boots on. What was this one up to, she wondered.
"From what I understand the rules are simple. Pin your opponent and you win?" asked Colford.
"Yes, but why follow convention, my Archaen ally. Let's make this interesting, shall we? Victory to the one who can knock out the other."
An excited murmur circulated around the ring from the now gathered crowd. Colford noted the throng then shifted his eyes back to Nell.
"All right, only if you answer me this. Why?"
"Why ... what Captain?" The Orcie narrowed her eyes.
"Why this animosity towards us, Honor-Rider."
The Commander placed her balled fist on her hips.
"You approach us with your grand scheme to lure us onto your so called Mindplane, and then threaten to kill us if we fail to even do that!"
"Is that what you think this is ... a plot on our part?" asked Colford in an incredulous voice.
"Is it not? It seems clear that your people need us more than we need you. Without our Canon ship your fleet is doomed. And tell me this ... "
She looked to the gathered crowd then back to the Captain.
"What proof do you have that your mind tricks will not enslave, or even steal knowledge from my people."
Colford stepped closer until there were barely a hand's width apart.
"We came to you in good faith," he began in clipped tones, "With an offer of unity to help both our people. Even now we are risking the life of our Emperor's youngest daughter just by being here. Other than my word as an Officer ... as one offering his hand in friendship to another, what can I do to earn your trust?"
Nell's face leered with a throaty growl.
"Earn my respect, Archaen."
A stout shove knocked him backwards a few meters. Regaining his balance quicker than Nell expected Colford lowered his head in acceptance.
"So be it. We'll do it your way."
Shouts of excitement broke out among the gathered crowd revealing those who felt the same as the Orcie. On an unspoken cue the two combatants stepped back and each dropped into their own defensive crouch.
The battle had begun.
A shift by one was reflected by the other. Counter pose answered by counter pose. Feint met with feint, then -- Nell charged, in a burst of blinding speed. One moment the Orcie was stone still the next she hit full stride in a mad charge for the Archaen. Instead of retreating Colford stood his ground, set his shoulders and struck. The two jabs were lightning fast, staggering Nell's jaw at top speed, before Duncan crouched and hit the Orcie with a bolo upper cut with all his might.
Nell's chin snapped up with the full impact of the blow as she was lifted off her feet. Then to the amazement of all, the Orcie arced sideways, fell back to the mat, landed on a braced hand and swept Colford's legs out from under him. The Archaen crashed back first to the floor where the Commander pounced and grappled him in a triangle choke -pinning the Archaen's right arm and upper shoulder between the right side of her own head, while her right arm locked around his neck and clamped her hand onto her free left bicep. With his neck and head encircled by her arms the Orcie squeezed - hard, quickly cutting off the circulation of the two arteries running up the left side of the Archaen's neck. The Captain would be unconscious in a matter of seconds if he didn't act quickly.
He did.
To the surprise of all, the Archaen's legs bent at the knee and lashed up. The toe of his left foot stabbed into a bundle of nerves just above the back of the Orcie's right knee causing her grip to loosen as she arced her back upwards from the unexpected shock of pain. His right leg lifted higher and whipped around Nell's neck and pulled her back -- one foot, than two. She grunted against the strain and would have easily pulled forward given her own natural strength save for one thing. The big and remaining toes of Colford's left foot viciously clenched the bundle of nerves on the Orcie's right leg. Gritting her teeth against the assault she had no choice but to let go of her opponent and roll away.
Both combatants scrambled to their feet, Colford, stumbling for breath while Nell fought for balance. Her leg was on fire and numb at the same time. Duncan tried to focus through the spots exploding in front of his eyes. He was dizzy and could barely stand.
That was far too close. If he was going to win he had to press his advantage. He advanced.
Nell lowered her stance, but with her leg lame she lacked the ability to charge. Her eyes shift to her opponent's bare feet. He had attacked her -- with his toes! As far as she knew the Archaen's were essentially Human, no different from the Human citizens of his own Empire. Most human's could not use their toes in such a fashion. Obviously there was more to the man than she expected.
Colford began to circle, looking for an opening. The Orcie Commander decided to let him come. Though she could not mount her preferred attack, she was still stronger than the Human. One solid punch and it would be over.
Colford stepped in, slipped under (just barely -- Ishtar she was fast) the Orcie's punch, and delivered three powerful body blows to her ribs and kidney before ducking under a left cross, but was suddenly struck in the forehead by an elbow strike. He staggered back into the ring's ropes where he was thrown back into the towering Orcie. Nell saw her chance and lunged for another grapple choke on the neck.
At the last moment she saw her mistake. Colford slipped under her extended left hand and arm and vaulted into the air. As one his hands clamped on the wrist of her extended arm and twisted with locking torque. Instantly his legs scissored around her neck. The momentum of his attack flipped them to the ground where Nell landed on her chest and stomach just as she felt the Archaen's legs squeeze. Like he did with his foot the fingers of his hands attack the bundles of nerves on the Orcie's arm, numbing it instantly. Laying face down, with one of her legs still unresponsive she could not find purchase to stand. She had only one chance. Her free right arm tried to reach for Colford's neck, but the Archaen leaned back until his shoulders were flat on the ground where he could still easily choke the Orcie, lock her left arm and avoid her right hand's attack.
Nell tried to roll and buck her attacker off, but to no avail. The pressure tightened and her vision began to tunnel. Her free hand locked on the ankle of one of Colford's legs and tried to untangle it's vice-like grip, but her strength was failing.
"Yield!" grunted the Archaen.
Nell cursed something he couldn't translate, but her answer was clear. Her free hand began to shake. Her body began to quiver, then slowed. Ten full seconds passed, then five. To his surprise and relief the Orcie passed out.
He had won.
Untangling himself the crowd around him stared in stun silence. He climbed to his feet, his chest bathed in sweat, and then dropped to his knees. The knot on his head where Nell's elbow struck him throbbed with building pain.
"Tell ... " he began, as he swallowed down a dry throat. "Tell our doctors that we could use some help ... on ... the Mindplane."
Turning sideways he slumped over into blissful unconsciousness. The fight was over.
=====
Captain Direck stared into the monitor displaying the action that just took place in the docking bay of the HMS Citadel. Leaning forward, the Orcie crossed his fingers before him.
"Good job, Rider, very good job." The Captain smiled to himself. The Council would have had a fit and knocked her down in rank, if she was lucky. But Direck knew this was needed. He could already see the other Orcie looking at the Archaens with greater respect and in turn the rest of his fleet would do the same.
With new understanding and greater respect the real battle was ready to begin.
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Post by Jason on May 6, 2011 20:53:22 GMT -7
Another explosion rocked her ship causing Winter to careen her attacker hard to her left. The simulated gravity couldn’t keep up with the sudden move and slammed her sideways into the cockpit. Star within and without the cockpit floated before her eyes.
“Winter! Pull up!” Claymore’s voice echoed in her ears and she yanked the yoke back pulling her ship away from a Lights fighter on a collision course.
“You OK?” Reaper’s attack came up beside Winter’s during a small oasis of respite in the chaos of battle tear space apart before them.
“Yeah, they didn’t kamikaze last time.”
“The Dreamers said we have to expect anything. If the Mords get desperate I wouldn’t put it past them to try it.” Claymore swung in and together the three launched out towards the nearest frigate heading on an attack run on the Light Sword.
As if to drive his point home the Light Sword fired it’s massive weapon and the frigate flew itself directly into the beam disintegrating in a ball of light rivaling the nearby star.
The cadets yanked their attackers back and punched their engines to full to avoid flying right into the explosion. Banking hard the Dra’kun came fully into view. Claymore arched his attacker back and went wide eyed.
“Attacker to Fleet, Attacker to Fleet. The enemy carrier is about to fire! I repeat the Dra’kun is about to fire it’s EMP weapon.” Claymore barked into his headset not sure what else his small ship could do against such fire power. The battle carrier was directing itself straight for the Light Sword.
Quicker then Claymore could think possible for a ship of it’s size the Archaen carrier the Shield moved to block the Light Sword. It did not make it. Worst still it was not the EMP that fired. The Dra’kun’s main weapons lit up the space between it and the Light Sword. Claymore’s view screen darkened quickly to the sudden illumination and left him a clear view of the Light Sword being swallowed by the deadly inferno.
The Dra’kun did not end there. It continued firing and swept the Shield destroying it in the same blast that took the Light Sword. Fighters poured in and it was all Claymore could do to keep them from annihilating him and his wing. If the battle was lost all ships where to head toward the gate, board carriers if possible, but to bug out of the area as fast as possible. In the chaos that swam before him that was not likely to happen. Two Isieans frigates exploded to his left, an Archaen battle cruiser was ravaged by two Lights frigates and ceased to exist in this world on his right.
Reaper pulled off to intercept a bank of missiles coming in fast and hard. Swinging high three enemy fighters swept through and Reaper vanished in a hale of weapons fire. The missiles he missed impacted on Winter’s attacker and she evaporated in a brilliant ball of light. Chaos reigned.
Punching hard and firing all guns, Claymore launched himself towards the far end of the system the gate not even visible. Before he even got out of Winter’s debris field a frigate appeared before him. Bright light from it’s weapons systems was the last view Claymore had.
He awoke with the rest of the Joint Fleet, as it was being called. They had lost, and lost harder this time then they did in all the previous simulated runs. It seemed like they’ve been training for days even though only a few hours have gone by. This Mindracing was amazing and confusing all at the same time.
Awaking in one of the gym’s aboard the White Star, Claymore looked over at Winter. She was lucky, the guards weren’t checking who was who so she was able to slip in and train to ‘dream’. Reaper was sitting up on the other side of her, not pleased. He hated to lose and when losing meant dying he hated it even more.
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Post by Jason on Jun 13, 2011 22:08:36 GMT -7
Winter stood and stormed out of the gym. There was an hour break scheduled for dinner, even though they have been in the Mindplane for what seemed to be several days was only several hours. Winter, though, did not seem to be heading to the mess hall. Claymore jumped up after her leaving Reaper to stew and plot new strategies.
“Hey! Winter, wait up. J’rin, damn it, wait up!” he yelled after her as he raced to catch up. She didn’t stop till she reached an observation deck devoid of personnel and quiet. Slowing to a stop beside her they stood at the railing of the massive steel-glass wall overlooking the length of the White Star, “What’s wrong?” he whispered.
Winter stared downward toward the mass of the ship, but looked so much further past it, into the void and beyond. “We.. we’ve, never lost before.” she stated almost brokenly.
“Yes we have, many times.” countered Claymore looking out at the stars.
“No, not you and me, US as in the Isieans. We’ve won just about every fight we’ve come up against, but this, this is not like the others.” she twisted her fingers together and was staring at her hands now, the view forgotten if ever even seen.
“...no...” Claymore whispered, turning his head to look at her clasped hands.
“Death seems to be a sure thing this time. We’ve been trained to except that, but to see it right in your face, over and over.” her white hair fell, veiling her down turned face. Claymore wasn’t sure, but he could swear she was crying, “I don’t want you to leave me, Cairon.”
Claymore was stifled and taken aback, she only ever used his real name in jest or when angry, never at times like this, and those where few and far apart at that. After a heart beat it finally registered what it was she just said. Slowly he reached out and placed his hand on hers, “I’m not going anywhere, J’rin, I promise.”, anything else he was going to say was cut off when she suddenly turned and embraced him, burying her head in his shoulder and cried. Stunned, all he could do was wrap his arms around her in turn and hold her.
After a time and her breathing began to settle he softly spoke into her ear, “I will always protect you, as you have me. I am not going out in any blaze of glory any time soon. The battles we’re up against in the Mindplane are to help us learn, they are harder then they should be.”
“How do you know that? What if they aren’t?”, Winter was almost inaudible.
Pulling back, Claymore lifted her chin to look into eyes bluer then any ocean on any planet, “Because I have faith that we will prevail.”
Looking up into Claymore’s own steel grey eyes an old emotion swept over her. One she had suppressed and hidden away for so long. Slowly the two came together in a soft kiss.
“What am I, Grox fodder?!”, the familiar voice of Reaper pulled them back and they quickly jumped apart, “Like you need to do that, I’ve know you two’ve had the hots for one another since we where teamed up our first year at the Academy.”.
Embarrassment washed over the two pilots faces and was gone as quick as it came as Reaper continued, “I have an idea.”
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