Treecuu Star Empire,
Thoov Mandate,
J.F.S.S.  Relentless
17/05/1620 PD

Aurelian looked upon the stars from his ready room as it transferred its last supplies near spaceport to the galactic northwest of Thoov. He was partly happy with the current assignment, but he still felt sceptical about it. He wished to protect his people's realm. Not to explore long dead and uncolonized worlds, while barbarian tribes lingered from the southern border. His father had transferred him to the Joint Fleet. The Joint Fleet had commenced Operation Farsight, a large scale exploration effort to assess the territories to the northern Treecuu border. Anarchist elements had already been discovered, but the Treecuu Empire was interested in what lay beyond these pirates. The scum and villainy of the sector as Aurelian put it. There was a strategic sense to it. If the governments wished to intervene, an attack on two front would prove useful. Even if only to divert large scale forces. It was this type of thinking that his father wanted to change in Aurelian. King Andrei had seen the cost of total war and he wished that the future generation of Stoinian royalty would find a new Golden Path for the Stoinian people. One where the Stoinians become the most important power in the Sector, though not solely by overt military actions.
Aurelian was sent to learn to cooperate with different species. The Stoinian government had taken steps to strengthen their bond with the Treecuu and it had been a month or so since the Kontauri had been officially annexed. To that end, Aurelian received a brand new ship. The J.F.S.S. Relentless, a new Gagarin-class Exploration Cruiser within the 11th Squadron of the 4th Joint Fleet Division under Command of Vice Admiral Cristina Lupei. Lupei was a kind lady who enjoyed the mentor role she had for the young royalty, however his closest mentor would be a Limavuan. To protect his son, Commodore Tuuc, was his immediate Commanding Officer. Tuuc was the Captain who welcomed the Stoinian King and has since proven an effective tool for the Joint Exploration Fleet. The Treecuu benefitted from this as well, as Tuuc served as an incredible propaganda tool for the Treecuu Committee of Expansion.
It was then that Aurelian heard the ring of his ready room. He reaffirmed his stern militaristic stance and lifted his chin up as he turned around to stand behind his desk. The young 19-year old Stoinian Officer was certain to always look at his best, but the person coming through the door as it entered was not someone he had expected.
- "Enter."
A young and small Terran come through the door. Aurelian masked his confusion well, there was something odd on this fellow. He wore the uniform of the Stoinian Royal Navy, but his hair was something new. It was as if it had a small crescent around it. Similar to aura's depicted on Saints in Sinaian churches, but barely noticeable. The young lad, seemingly no older than Aurelian, stood at attention as he spoke.
- "Sire, Ensign Dius Virini. Reporting for duty."
His name wasn't Terran, but he was looking just like one. The confidence, the stance... It all looked so Terran to Aurelian. Yet... Sire. It was common knowledge for the Stoinian military to ignore noble titles address members of the royal family as either Sir or Ma'am. Aurelian decided to take this one step at a time. His accent was also quite unique. As if multiple Terran accents mashed together. He recognised Poltchkian and Elysian elements to it.
- "I don't think I've ever heard a Terran with the name Dius Virini. Tell, do the outer colonies go by with new names now, Ensign?" The Ensign responded without a shed of confusion and with clarity.
- "Sire. I think you are mistaken. I'm Kontauri. Here you can see the details of the transfer Sire. I'm to act as a liaison and your assistant."
Ah... That explained it. I probably shouldn't forget the newest addition to our realm. Aurelian looked at the datapad. He knew the Kontauri would be integrated, but so soon? After mere months? Aurelian looked at the datapad and then handed it back over to Dius. He had questions for the young Kontauri.
- "Liaison you say? For the Kontauri military integration efforts I take it?"
- "Yes, Sire."
The way he says it. Sire... With such devotion. Not even the Shikokans said it with such tone. Yet... How did this Kontauri learn our language so easily?
- "Well I'm glad to see things move to swiftly. Yet... I'm a bit perplexed, how did you learn our language so quickly?"
- "Ah. Well Sire, the late Emperor Molari uncovered ancient scriptures which formed the basis of the translation between our languages. It seems the Prophecy of Kavu came with a few safeguards. During the late Emperor's reign, a select few of us were allowed to learn this language. I was a tutor-adoptive. Meaning that the Emperor adopted me to educate me. My noble House Virini was deeply honoured. I can't express the honour I feel in this assignment, Sire. To stand side by side with the Great Caretaker's own son."
Aurelian puzzled the pieces together. This Prophecy of Kavu was nothing but a machination by a rouge Stoinian infiltration agent. It also explained how some of the Kontauri so easily adopted the English language. 
- "I don't suppose you were there when Emperor Molari challenged my father to a duel."
- "Ah yes... The Muroga. I wasn't there, but I'm told it was a duel of great prowess. Emperor Molari was a great man, but Emperor Andrei has proven himself. By both your laws as ours. I had a private conversation with him. I must say, I'm looking forward to become your eide de camp."
Aurelian wasn't sure what to think of it. A xeno as his aide... Why father? Why oh why do you make my life so difficult? How hard was it to find one out of the trillions of Stoinians? Aurelian smiled as he concealed his true feelings. It was a perk he had being part of the royal family at attending all the ceremonies. 
- "It's pronounce aide-de-camps. Perhaps you should have studied your Terrans languages more."
- "I'm sorry to displease you, Sire. I'll do my best to better my tongue."
- "Another thing, Ensign. Don't refer to me as Sire. In the Stoinian military we shed aside our noble titles, we're all equals here. Do you understand?"
- "Not quite, Sire... You are noble born. Born to rule and lead your subjects! We must acclaim you by your proper title, the laws demand it."
- "And Stoinian law prohibits from noble marrying each other. It's in that spirit that the Stoinian military treats ALL of its members as equals. Stoinian law has now become Kontauri law and you will abide it."
Aurelian was sure to set this straight. He was to serve the Stoinian Star Kingdom from now on. Not the Kontauri. Aurelian said it with a certain venonimity to scare to Kontauri, but he was full of surprises. Without remorse he had adapted.
- "Yes, Sir! Of course, Sir!"
Aurelian was astonished at the Kontauri's obedience. He enjoyed, but for now he would give Virini a chance. He had proven himself so far and if the Kontauri were to be finally integrated, then this must be the way. 
- "Now, Ensign Virini. If you are to be my aide-de-camps, I think we should get you to know our new home."
The duo left the ready room and Aurelian presented the new ship to the young Kontauri. Virini was utterly amazed and even Aurelian still looked with a certain awe at newly integrated Treecuu technology. For now, Virini showed promise... For a xeno...

Pacifica: Myria, Sallodesia, Stoinia • A1-0: Stoinian Star Kingdom • Aurora: Kingdom of Threnebor

(This post was last modified: 08-24-2021, 08:58 PM by Maverick.)

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Unknown Space,
50 LY from the Treecuu Star Empire
J.F.S.S.  Relentless
16/06/1620 PD

Dead... Dead space upon more dead space. Not just in one direction, but all of them! That's what Aurelian thought when looking outside the window in his ready room. For about a month now, his squadron had charted uninhabited space. No civilization in sight. All there for the taking Aurelian thought. If only it had been near the Stoinian border, the Star Kingdom could expand and use its expansion as an economic boon. Aurelian personally agreed that the Star Kingdom should expand its manifest destiny to the stars. A destiny in which the Stoinians brought order to the Sector and the galaxy, either through subjugation or colonization. Although not the goal of Operation Farsight, Aurelian couldn't help but see opportunities to expand his star nation's realm. However, he was again interrupted as the door rang. Aurelian answered calmly and there appeared Virini.
- "Ah Sire... Pardon me. Sir, but do you have some spare time. In involves recent politics on Kontaurius, Sir."
The more time Aurelian spent with Virini, the more he began to enjoy the young Kontauri's enthusiasm. Was this a trait of all Kontauri? Or is our friend Virini here an exception?
- "Very well. At ease. Please sit down."
Virini bowed slightly before sitting in the chair opposite to Aurelian. To this day, the respect Virini showed to him still surprised Aurelian. He was no political expert, but slowly he had begun to form his own opinions. Eventually, he would need to for he was to be the Viceroy of Stoinia one day. The role was reserved for the second born of the King. With Stoinian being the cradle of the Star Kingdom, House Stoian saw it as their duty to always guard it. While it still was far away in the future, Aurelian made his peace and started to inform himself on the dazzling world of politics. He still maintained his stern militaristic posture as if he was still on duty.
- "So, what's this about Ensign?"
- "It's about the recent political discourse on my homeworld. The supervisor of the integration of the Kontauri, Major Legate Lucius Avitus Aetius, has recently tried to bring the idea of female voting rights to the Kontauri Ascendancy. I find his ideas quite... How shall I put it... Out of the package? No... Ah! Repulsive."
Aurelian frowned at the Kontauri. He knew the Kontauri had different roles for males and females, so had many Stoinian colonies, but to not grant them the same rights? The Kontauri had used unusual wording. There were even more peculiar things about him however...
- "Please you can just refer to any official with just their last name."
- "But Kontauri customs require the full name to be spoken out loud. He is an official for the Sun's sake. Especially since he is the head of the government of the Kontauri Ascendancy."
- "Stoinian customs Ensign, especially here in the military we prefer to keep things short. While it's just a side note, I think it serves to illustrate the problem regarding the current political discourse on your homeworld."
- "Yes, I understand that we must accustom to your laws, but giving female voting rights is simply unprecedented. Throughout our history no female has done anything productive for our society!"
- "Well... Ensign, don't you think you might be a bit harsh on them?"
- "Not at all! It's the way of the Kontauri that the females serve the males. It is as the Sun wills it."
Aurelian already dreaded the conversation. It was like he spoke to a fanatic, but instead of any Terran deities the Kontauri sun was now unavoidable.
- "You mentioned they never did anything productive for society. But I can't help to ask, were they ever allowed to do so?"
- "Well... Not really... The dreaded Ko'ghyal forced us Kontauri to protect our females from early on in our history. The Sun guides us in this quest and has lead us to a path of victory."
Aurelian couldn't help but feel pity. How misguided the Kontauri were... Yet, there's nothing I can do. If the son of their Emperor would shatter their religion, it would send shockwaves. Even Aurelian knew that, the task would prove more difficult.
- "I see. Hmmm... But without the females, there wouldn't be a Kontauri culture. So they are essential to maintain your society, yes?"
- "Essential isn't quite the word I would use. Required, yes. But essential?! No... The greatest Kontauri artists and Kings were all males. They made our culture and our species. Females should only provide offspring to the males."
- "So in the whole of your history, no female has contributed to art?"
- "Well... We Kontauri might argue that dancing can be considered a form of art, but hardly an art that requires cognitive abilities."
- "You also mentioned that females should only provide offspring... But... Is there no love in your marriages?"
- "HA! LOVE! What does love have to do with marriage? Kontauri marriages are determined by the heads of the family to strengthen bonds between houses. All sacrifices we must make for the greater glory of the Kontauri Empire!"
- Aurelian didn't know what to make of it. The Kontauri spoke with such certainty and pride. He couldn't help but feel that the Stoinians were far superior to the Kontauri.
- "But don't the females protest it?"
- "Why of course! It's the natural way of things. They expect romance and a loving husband, but the world doesn't work like that. Love will grow with time eventually as it does in all Kontauri marriages."
- "Well..." Remain polite, Aurelian. No point in making your aide-de-camps a hostile one. "That's a way of looking at it. But we Terrans have had similar situations in our history. In the end, giving the same rights to females has allowed our society to grow exponentially."
- Virini looked sceptically at Aurelian. He didn't see the logic in it.
- "How so?"
Aurelian chuckled. He knew how to frame it now.
- "Because... Every being, male and female has their to feel free. What is a predator animal on your homeworld?"
- "Ah, the fiercest one would be the Chakar. Now that the Ko'ghyal are gone."
- "Cage a Chakar, Ensign, and he will strive to liberate himself. It's in the nature of the universe for sapient species to strive for freedom and inhibiting it, will create a fierce retaliation."
- "But Sir, the majority of Kontauri protesting this measure are females!"
Aurelian didn't expect that. Now he sees the predicament the Major Legate had found himself in. How peculiar... Was Kontauri society so oppressive against females? Aurelian leaned back in disbelief.
- "Perhaps... Perhaps you didn't instil a physical cage on your female, but a mental one? Does education between the sexes differ?"
- "Why yes! Females don't receive any education at all and are expected to maintain the house."
Aurelian raised his eyebrows. None! Hadn't the females longed for knowledge? To think about ideas? Aurelian let out a heavy sigh. He didn't know where to begin with this.
- "You seem displeased Sir. Is everything all right?"
- "I just can't quite fathom the idea of Terran females being reduced by society to menial housework. Haven't any of them tried to rebel against your society?"
- "Why yes, but that was along time ago. The punishment for it were quite severe and as soon as examples were made, the females followed suit. Thus it has been for centuries now."
- "Perhaps the power structure isn't the only thing to change then..."
- "I beg your pardon Sir?"
- "Societies are ever changing Ensign... As much as you try, societies will change. Even if you maintained your culture until now, with the Kontauri being integrated into the Star Kingdom, only more interference will come. Don't think it's a question of IF your females wish voting, but rather WHEN."
- "Preposterous! It goes against the very foundation of Kontauri society."
- "And the discriminatory part against females is against the very foundation of Stoinian society. Look at our females now, they fight shoulder to shoulder with us, represent our people and make laws for them. Queen Elena is regarded by many as the most compassionate monarch, dying because of an infection while helping others."
Virini for a change looked himself astonished at Aurelian.
- "Yes, those are Terran females. But I don't believe Kontauri females are capable of such feats..."
- "How can you be certain? You haven't allowed them."
- "I see your point, Sir. Perhaps it's something worthwhile to study. I shall look into your Queen Elena and see if there's anything applicable to our females. But I must say, the Major Legate Lucius Avi... Aetius, is moving too fast with such discourse."
Aurelian smiled.
- "I think everyone was a bit surprised. Some things seem so fundamental, that you forget others view it differently. 
- "Wise words indeed, Sir. Now... Might I be so bold to challenge you to a duel? At 19 hundred?"
- "Well, better than just waiting around staring at the stars. A physical challenge might be good to change the scenery a bit. Though I hope it's not a Muroga."
- "Why no... Just simply fencing of course. Besides, if I wanted to challenge someone to a Muroga, he would need to be a more worthy opponent."
Virini put a sly smirk on his face. His challenge was without doubt now.
- "Oh, now you'll regret those words, Ensign. See you at 19 hundred. Dismissed."

Pacifica: Myria, Sallodesia, Stoinia • A1-0: Stoinian Star Kingdom • Aurora: Kingdom of Threnebor

(This post was last modified: 08-24-2021, 09:00 PM by Maverick.)

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Unknown Space,
50 LY from the Treecuu Star Empire
J.F.S.S.  Relentless
20:00 ship time

Aurelian had cleaned himself up after a fierce duel with Virini. The young Kontauri was a swift and elegant duellist, but Aurelian had proven to be the better sparring master.
- "I must say Sir, you're quite the swordsman. Perhaps one day my people will revere you as such."
Aurelian wasn't too comforrtable with being revered. The Shikokans did as they believed the Stoinian royal family had the Stoinian spirit in them. Being the second in line he still didn't have to do all the ceremonies required by the Crown Prince. His elder brother, Carol, had grown accustomed to it. However, the young Aurelian still founded the whole revering a bit odd.
- "Oh, I certainly hope not."
- "Now why's that Paso Leati?"
- "Well... Wait. Paso Leati? What's that?"
- "Ah, I believe the translation is "Brave Leati". You see I believe it's comparable to your Stoinian Lion."
- "Still, why the nickname?"
- "Ah you see my friend, I may be young but I duelled a lot in the Kontauri royal courts. I know a real fighter from the amateurs. From your fighting technique, I figured you'd fight like a Leati. A brave one at that!"
- "So were giving each other nicknames then eh?"
The Kontauri smiled with a wide grin and nodded his head as he opened his arms.
- "Yes!"
Aurelian was indeed surprised. It seemed to go so quickly. He normally wouldn't allow it on duty, but they were not. He'd made friends during his childhood, but they all came second place to his royal duties and ever since he jumped classes and joined the military, his friendships had watered. Out here in unexplored space, the final frontier, friends would be in short supply.
- "All right. But only off duty, we can't diminish the chain after all."
- "Great, Paso Leati!"
Aurelian nodded and made a small smile when looking at Virini.
- "Though don't expect a nickname soon. I think I actually quite just calling you Virini. It has a nice ring to it."
- "Ring, what ring?"
- "A Terran expression. A nice sound."
Virini gasped in relief.
- "Ah! Sire you honour my House."
- "Anytime Virini." Aurelian jokingly replied.
- "Paso Leati, why wouldn't you like to be revered?" You still haven't answered the question."
Aurelian gave Virini a stern but friendly look.
- "You know, you can be quite sly at times."
- "Of course I do. I wouldn't be a Kontauri otherwise!"
Virini smiled again and look at Aurelian. He wasn't giving up so easy now that he had gotten a response. Doubt took over Aurelian as he wasn't sure himself.
- "Well... I don't really know. It sort of makes me uncomfortable, being idolized for little reason. I'm... I'm just a mere Terran after all."
- "Tsk tsk tsk."
Virini swayed his right hand left to right and turning his head left to right, indication clear disagreement.
- "That's where you're wrong Paso Leati. You aren't idolized for little reason. You represent something."
- "What then? Just the family of head of state?"
- "No no."
Virini stepped forward and pointed to Aurelian's chest.
- "While yes you are family to the monarch, you still do represent something. Yohr family carries a message with it. The name, the pride, the duties and the burden."
- "Burden?"
- "Oh yes. You're the ruler's family. Your family is seen all over the Star Kingdom for guidance. Someone they could look to and tell them it will be all right. For you carry a message in your heart. Imagine a grassfield with only one tree in it. A dark and terrible storm comes and shakes the ground and the grass. The grass is panicking and it doesn't know what to do. Yet, there stands the mighty tree ever staunch and resolute. The blades of grass look towards the tree and are inspired by it. It standing there without fear sends a message that all will be well and the dark storm too will pass. You, Paso Leati, are but a branch of that tree. However, the tree is all alone by itself and has no one else to turn to but itself. That is what a royal family is to its people. A strong and old tree."
- "But Virini, you forget that trees do fall down during storms."
- "Don't be such a pessimist, Paso Leati! Besides... Changes of dynasty do occur."
Aurelian wanted to add something more to the conversation, but was interrupted by the ship's PA.
- "Captain Stoian, please report to the bridge."
Aurelian turned to Virini.
- "Well... Duty calls."
- "Where you go Paso Leati, I follow. You should know that by now."

---

As the young duo reappeared in uniform on the bridge. The mixt crew of Terrans, Cheunh, Limavuans and Ict't looked upon their commander woth great interest for they had discovered something extraordinary. The female Terran comms Lieutenant arose from her chair and saluted her superior.
- "At ease, Lieutenant."
- "Sir, we've discovered traces of ship travel similar to that of the Ryccians in the region. It is all pointing to a certain star system just 6,7 LY away from our current position."
Aurelian knew what this meant. Xenos.
- "Very well. Helmsman lay in a course for the system. Maximum warp."
Like his father before him, it was now Aurelian's turn to initiate a first contact himself. Though would it end in bloodshed?

Pacifica: Myria, Sallodesia, Stoinia • A1-0: Stoinian Star Kingdom • Aurora: Kingdom of Threnebor

(This post was last modified: 08-24-2021, 09:03 PM by Maverick.)

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Unknown Space,
55 LY from the Treecuu Star Empire
J.F.S.S.  Relentless
17/06/1620 PD

The Relentless had parked itself in orbit around a lush planet. Initial scans showed a promising world full of life, even a primitive civilization seemed to flourish on this planet. It showed great promise, but Stoinian policy dictated that primitive species to be left alone within their borders. Treecuu policy was much more repressing. Here in the wild frontier, who would check if they followed the rules correctly. For all Aurelian cared, if they were to be reprimanded, the sooner he'd get home. He saw no real problem with it. After hailing several times in both Stoinian, Limavuan and Teetac languages, there still wasn't an answer from the planet. It would appear this was a primitive world and Aurelian was already contemplating to wander off. Unexpectedly a ship came down from the planet headed towards them. Aurelian sat in his command chair on the round bridge and touched a few buttons on his right console.
- "Lieutenant, open a new channel hailing the incoming ship. Audio-visual communication. Also, get me a visual on that ship."
- "Aye, Sir. Channel open."
The ship appeared in front of Aurelian on the viewscreen. It looked just as refined as the Gagarin-class starship he was commanding. It was roughly a tenth of the Relentless' size and its form was reminiscing of a thick dagger with elegant spike protruding from it. It's design was almost as elegant as that of Drakari ships, but more smoothened. In the blink of an eye another Terran appeared on the viewscreen, though something was clearly off. He appeared both young and old at the same time. The white hair conflicted with the smooth skin the Terran had. However, he looked as shocked as Aurelian upon the revelation of each other's appearance. 
- "This is Captain Aurelian of the Relentless. We represent the Treecuu and Stoinian star nations. Please identify yourself."
- "Oe nizouke vekrepu. Kaoe'th inex jozno kaou xouxno."
The language was spoken softly and elegantly with great care. It was obvious these Terrans emphasized great importance on their language. But... The crew of the Relentless still had to figure out what these Terrans were saying exactly.
- "Lieutenant, send them our language files."
- "Aye, Sir."
- "Unknown vessel please send us your language files."
The white haired Terran looked confused at Aurelian and raised an eyebrow. He then turned to his right and spoke yet again in his elegant language. He had nodded to his crew.
- "Sir, they're doing the same. They're sending over their language files. Sending it to linguistics."
- "Good job Lieutenant. Now we have to keep talking to give them more data. Guess I'll be entertaining them."
He turned with his chair again to face the viewscreen again. Standing up now, he switched to his military posture straightening his dark blue uniform with white stripes. Giving an odd smile to the xenos, not sure where to start the conversation. He sighed and decided to give it a go.
- "I'm Captain Aurelian Stoian of the Stoinian Star Kingdom. I am the Captain of this ship, which is a result from our joint effort with the Treecuu." Aurelian became more expressive using his hands to clarify his message, pointing at himself, the ranks pins and the surrounding Treecuu. To him it looked dubious, but it would help the xeno crew to identify what each word meant and its grammatical meaning. He continued on with his visual expression.
- "Now I know this looks a bit dubious and all, but we must help each other understand. And we'll have to continue talking so our linguists can understand our languages. Will you do the same?" Aurelian now pointed at the Terran in front of him. As if a miracle had happened, the Terran understood what Aurelian was trying to do and nodded to him. Now he began to speak and used the same expressions as Aurelian to give data to the Relentless' linguists. This circus continued back and forth for an hour until the Terrans on the facing ship activated their translators.
- "Do you understand me now?"
Aurelian smiled as his crew cheered silently. Finally! Now we can talk proper.
- "Aye, we understand you know."
- "Ah good, we've figured your language must be related to one of the humans in the Protected Realms. I must say, your expression certainly helped our linguists."
Aurelian smiled at the kind remarks of the Terran in front of him. He certainly seemed friendly though his remarks made no sense as of now.
- "Humans? Protected Realms? Wha-... I'm sure, let's start over. I'm Captain Aurelian of the Relentless. My crew and I represent the Treecuu and Stoinian star nations, located south from this system roughly 150 lightyears away."
- "Oof, 150. You must have had quite a long journey. Alas, forgive me. I'm Captain Durkaj Mot of the Arkanian merchant vessel Uplethuxou xiu Thoxizi, Bringer of Fortune. I welcome you to the fringes of the regions where the Tiyanki roam. The planet below you is the Kihi Kingdom, we can help you settle in for the time if you wish."
- "That would be of great help Captain Mot. I look forward to meeting you in person."

Pacifica: Myria, Sallodesia, Stoinia • A1-0: Stoinian Star Kingdom • Aurora: Kingdom of Threnebor

(This post was last modified: 08-24-2021, 09:05 PM by Maverick.)

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Kihi Kingdom,
55 LY from the Treecuu Star Empire
J.F.S.S.  Relentless
17/06/1620 PD
 

The planet Kihi, home of the Kihi and their Kingdom.

The Relentless was too big to actually land in the improvised spaceport planetside. It was therefore decided that 3 Pelican-class shuttles would transport the necessary officials alongside a compliment of Stoinian and Treecuu Marines. The Arkanian vessel guided them along through the atmosphere, cutting easily through the heavy winds which shook up some of the Stoinian Pelicans. Initial scans didn't show much signs of civilizations so Aurelian really didn't know what to expect. From the few glimpses he saw through the cockpit's windows, it looked like the planet was green in every direction. Even the sky had a barely noticeable hue of green in it which wasn't known to be possible. Or at least, not seen in the Star Kingdom. As the convoy sheared through the skies, its engines resonated through the vast valley. Flying in a diamond formation over a large river it was a sight to behold. One the pilots wished to share.
- "Captain, you should come take a look."
Aurelian stood up from his seat after disengaging the safety harness. Then he heard another hissing sound from another safety harness. He should have guessed it, for Dius Virini also stood up.
- "And where do you think you're going?"
- "Ah, Sir. You forget I'm your liaison. Where you go, I go. It's the King's wish."
Aurelian could have pressed the matter. But if he had learned something the last few days, it's that the Kontauri were masters at changing perspective to fit their needs. Aurelian was already running possible answers. Even mimicking his sharp and fierce accent in his mind.
"AH, but Sir! As an OFFICIAL representative of the Kontauri Ascendancy, I MUST be present at EVERY instance in which YOU represent the Stoinian Star Kingdom. For the sake of further cooperation AND the full integration of my people, I suggest we continue with this, as you would say, inconvenience."
Though annoying as was at times, everyone agreed that the Kontauri had a certain charm. Or at least the Stoinians thought so, even after spending a month traversing unknown space with the Treecuu, Aurelian still hadn't learned as to how to read these people. For the few Cheunh on board he had actually given up and accepted their disciplined nature. The Treecuu seemed quite similar to them in that regard, but Virini more than compensated for their serious moods.
- "By now I know not to try to convince you otherwise."
- "Ah, a wise lesson indeed. I hope that in the future you'd learn it quicker though, Paso Leati."
Some of the Marines grinned, but a quick stern look from Aurelian was more than enough to convince them of their error. The duo then positioned themselves in the small gaps between the pilots' seats and the rest of the cockpit. From there they admired the view which was similar and alien at once. The flora was similar to the galactic norm, but the geography of  the valley was indeed otherworldly. The valley was located in-between two plateaus and in the far distance a large formation of waterfalls could be seen. Spanning across with a 5 km radius, a series of concave cascades would form the large river which cut through the valley. 
- "Great Maker..."
Virini was impressed too. Even the proud and paternalistic Kontauri would have to admit the beauty of the landscape. Aurelian looked at the river shore and saw small boats fishing on it. Then more and more blue-grey dots appeared on the shores. The mass began to wave their feathery hands at the incoming convoy. The resonating engines had undoubtedly alerted the inhabitants of their presence and so they wished to welcome them. Aurelian couldn't help but feel a warm feeling in his chest.
- "It even looks like the inhabitants are happy to see us coming. A happy change from all the dark void we've been seeing so much as of late."
- "Great Maker, Sir. Look in front of you!"
Then, it was revealed. The jewel of the planet, a city in between the cascade formation. With towers now blinking thanks to the suns' angle, the elegance of the Kihi was revealed. Aurelian was expecting some small huts or perhaps a few stone houses, but never this. Despite the Kihi being a primitive species, they had learned to build majestic marble cities which now were known all over the Tiyanki Territories. The following 10 minutes were spent in silence as slowly the sound of the waterfalls became louder and louder and vibrated through the shuttle's hull and windows. Then they parked on empty landing pads, hanging just over cliff at the edge of the city, located in front of a large marble palace. The Arkanian ship as well had joined them and parked on the left of Aurelian's shuttle.
 

Star City, the capital of the Kihi Kingdom, located in the Kikhogara Cascades.

Aurelian exited his shuttle alongside Virini and his complement of 12 Stoinian Marines. The Arkanian door opened as well and three Terrans with glazing white hair came forth. Dressed in elegantly long light grey robes detailed with intricate curved white pattern. They approached Aurelian and his men, ever so elegant, while the other Marines disembarked as well. Meanwhile the portable Arkanian translators began to translate after the Arkanians spoke in their soft soothing tongue.
- "Welcome to Star City, Captain Aurelian. The crowning jewel of the planet and the Kihi. I take it you haven't quite seen anything like it from where you're coming from?"
- "We do have wonders of our own, but nothing quite like this. I'm amazed these primitives are capable of building such a city."
- "Ah Captain. Primitiveness isn't simply defined be technological advancement. The proper usage and mindset are what truly distinguishes us from non-sentients."
The Arkanian had a point. The Mardakii had turned feral after the War at Home when they were forced into the hunting reserve in Atonement Valley. Perhaps this was the reason his father had sent him out here. To better understand the universe and to gain a better insight on its true nature. The Arkanian spoke wise words, but his appearance still allured Aurelian. He intended to find out through the proper greeting. He approached the lead Arkanian and gave out his hand. The Arkanian took his hand and both applied some force to show strength yet not harm to receiver. The Arkanian glanced at their shaking hands and then looked Aurelian in the eyes with a warm smile.
- "A firm handshake. It seems our cultures are like in greeting each other. Perhaps even martial as well?"
- "You are correct in that assessment. Though not really by choice."
- "Trust me, no one becomes a martial society because that's what they want... Though perhaps the Cron are an exception."
- "Cron?"
- "Forgive me, it's never happened in my lifetime that we met Treecuu or Stoinians. Or even outsiders from the regions roamed by the Tiyanki."
Aurelian still was even more perplexed now. What were all these different terms the Terran kept using?
- "What are these Tiyanki and what exactly do they roam?"
- "You must be truly new here then. Well here in this part of space in-between the expanses, different civilizations have formed. The expanses are weird spatial phenomena and it seems they intersect with multiple dimensions at time. Making it quite difficult to travel through them, but more than suitable breeding ground for the Tiyanki. Spacewhales if you will. We Arkanians come from the Arkanian High Kingdom. 250 lightyears from here on a mission to restock some supplies. Perhaps you should come visit us one day."
- "That would be hard since I don't know your nation's location. Are there any other Terrans in these regions as well?"
- "I'll provide our ships charts to yours, that way you can find your way through the region. Though you might want to travel through the Great Expanse as to avoid any incidents south of the cross-section. Terrans? Perhaps you mean humans? Yes, there are quite a lot of them spread out. Though they have taken many different shapes."
Aurelian still was amazed as to how the Arkanian didn't believe he was a Terran. He looked just like them!
- "I'm sorry, you aren't Terran?"
- "Well we believe ourselves to be distinct from your kind, though we can produce fertile off-spring with them."
- "But you certainly look just like us, surely there must be an explanation for that."
- "All in good time Captain. I'm sure we can discuss this with experts back on Arkania. Ah the Kihi delegation has arrived." 
Aurelian turned toward the direction the Arkanian Captain was looking at. A large mass of avianoids approached them. Dressed in golden jewellery and silken clothes, the Kihi inhabitants approached the visitors with great joy. The lead Kihi was escorted by other similarly blue skinned Kihi, which seemed to be a different caste from other more greyish mass. The Kihi had a large colourful assortments of feathers which formed a large crest around his head. Similar to Kontauri fashion, though much larger than Virini's current crest. Clearly this individual was an important figure to the mass. He chirped something with great joy, but the Stoinian and Treecuu translators couldn't decipher them.
Aurelian bowed respectfully and the Kihi crowd cheered. Uncertain of what he had done, he turned towards the Arkanians.
- "I believe our translators aren't quite so efficient. Perhaps you could act as our translator in the mean time, if it wouldn't be too much of a hassle?"
The Arkanian smiled at both the Kihi and Stoinian and explained the situation to the Kihi. Then he turned to Aurelian again.
- "We'll help you out, don't worry. Shaman Tibakh greets you in name of King Kiritos."

Shaman Tibakh, the leader of the Kihi mass.

Pacifica: Myria, Sallodesia, Stoinia • A1-0: Stoinian Star Kingdom • Aurora: Kingdom of Threnebor

(This post was last modified: 08-24-2021, 09:07 PM by Maverick.)

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Later that evening...

The Tiyanki Territories were full of surprises. Aurelian and his entourage had learned that lesson by now. Just yesterday they were still flying in the uninhabited dark void and now they were dining at the banquet of a feathered King in the middle of giant waterfalls. No, this definitely wasn't what my father would have expected. As the Kihi band played cheerful music, servants brought food to the large elongated table in front of the King's Throne. Captain Durkaj Mot and his Arkanians helped the Stoinians and Treecuu get accustomed. Despite the Kihi's many dealings with outsiders, they hadn't quite made the perfect furniture for outsiders. Their table was larger yes, but they were rather cramped. The Stoinians and Treecuu weren't too shy about it, but the Arkanians remained calm and simply tried to make the best out of their stay. Their table was located directly in front of the King's throne and closest to it were Aurelian and facing him the Arkanian Captain. On his left was the ever cheerful Virini.
- "Sir, I must say these Kihi can learn quite a lot of basic carpentry. Even a crooked limp can see that the proportions are way off!"
Aurelian smiled as he embraced himself for a long night full of complaints by the loud Kontauri. Though the Arkanian Captain showed a curious interest in him.
- "My friend, don't take it so personally. Despite their friendliness they... Aren't quite aware of the mishaps to their guests."
- "Ah, Captain. I understand that," Virini then pressed his finger on the table multiple times as he continued to explain the shortcomings "But even the lowliest of Kontauri understands that the comfort of the guests is most important!" Virini then looked at the Arkanian with his arms wide open, but he merely raised a solid and calm eyebrow. "Fine all right. I just hope they don't serve the spoo fresh."
- "I take it this man is from a more... Expressive species than you, Captain?" Durkaj Mot asked looking at Aurelian.
- "Yes... Despite the superficial appearance, we Terrans and Kontauri are nothing alike. Did his hair crest give it away?"
Virini made a sharp turn and looked at his superior. "Sire, it's called a Tersk. Perhaps you should grow one yourself to increase your popularity in the Kontauri Ascendancy. I'm sure it will be most needed if you continue to insult me culture."
The Arkanian smiled back at Aurelian: "Definitely the crest." The two laughed while Virini was continuing his rant against Aurelian until the young royal whispered in his ear. "If you don't stop complaining I'll make you wash the Teetac toilets." With a short ultimatum, Virini started to behave again. Everyone was scared of the Teetac and the prospect of cleaning their toilets was most frightening.
- "Sire, may I offer you some Kihi wine." Mot offered his service. "Its quite good for this part of the Territories."
- "So far I've only seen dead space so I can't say no. Though you shouldn't call me that, Captain."
- "But you are royalty then? Why else would someone call you that?"
Aurelian gave a sharp look at Virini again. It was his fault after all and Aurelian clearly made it clear. Virini would however take the initiative again.
"Well... Now that truth must come out." Virini stood up and raised his glass of wine and some of the Stoinians and Treecuu were already sighing. "Gentlemen and gentlebeings! May I have your attention please. We, the Stoinian delegation have an important announcement. Our Captain, Aurelian Stoian, isn't merely a Captain. But a Prince and the second heir to the Stoinian throne. Now raise a glass to this fine royalty that has journeyed with us!" Surprisingly the Kihi cheered and the music changed to an even more festive tone! Mot looked back at Aurelian.
- "Your majesty... Forgive me, but what is the second heir to the throne seek out in these territories."
Aurelian tried to look away and ignore the question, but Mot was looking sternly at him with his pure white irises. "Well... My father sent me here to learn to cooperate with other species. Our dear friend Virini is such a gift from him. On the other hand, to assess these new territories to scout out the entire Sector."
- "A quest one wouldn't take so hastily..."
- "If you've been attacked four times by barbarian races, your species will try to prevent another round."
- "Ah I see. Perhaps you should evade the Dunedari Free-Standings then on your journey."
- "Dunedari?"
- "A red haired human race. Martial and territorial as well. Their arrival wasn't too smooth and some of them turned to piracy. I'm sure you'd like to eva-"
- "A human race? Just like you out there?"
- "Well not quite like me, I'm Arkanian after all. There are plenty of other human races and species in the Territories."
- "My nation thought themselves to be the only Terrans out there. It's been our driving motivation to find our brethren out there. Where would these Dunedari be located?"
- "Very well, suit yourselves." Captain Mot then opened his holoprojector and showed the map, pointing at the Dunedari Free-Standings. "This is the Dunedari Free-Standings. Since you're so eager to meet them, I won't stop you, but be careful when engaging them. Some of their Tribes have grown a taste for shooting outsiders. They're also humans or Terrans as you put it in the Ch'Rattan Cartel, but as the name implies, you shouldn't venture alone in there. Even the Jo'Dai Ord-"
The Arkanian was interrupted by the sounds of joyful trumpets, announcing the entrance of the Kihi King Kiritos...

Pacifica: Myria, Sallodesia, Stoinia • A1-0: Stoinian Star Kingdom • Aurora: Kingdom of Threnebor

(This post was last modified: 08-24-2021, 09:08 PM by Maverick.)

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King Kiritos, an old purple skinned Kihi appeared. Compared to the other Kihi, his feathers were even more colourful and formed a large crescent. Virini sure was jealous of the sapient bird. All the attention and status... He looked at Virini and he could just sea the jealousy in his eyes. At least the Kontauri knew what he wanted in life. The whole banquet then stood up to greet the King. Though the Arkanians, Stoinians and Treecuu largely towered above the Kihi. The King turned to Aurelian as he looked up to him.
- "Welcome to my Kingdom. I hear you are of royal blood?"
- "Captain Aurelian Stoian, your majesty, son of King Andrei III of Stoinia, Prince of Bloemfontein."
- "Ah the King sends his own son to greet us? Good..."
- "I'm afraid you misunderstand your majesty. We've been sent here to explore these parts of the Sector. We're working together with our Treecuu allies." Aurelian said as he waved towards the Teetac and Limavu amongst his delegation. 
- "And welcome to you all. Are there perhaps any more royalty amidst us?"
The Kihi King smiled or at least his eyes seemed to give that impression. The room fell silent as the King looked around. 
- "Well then... Let us continue with the banquet of King Kiritos! Music please!"
The cheerful band of Kihi began to play on wooden and tribalistic instruments. Aurelian was again perplexed by how impressive the musical quality actually sounded. He wouldn't have expected for it to be as good as some of the Stoinian musicians. Kihi music used higher tones however, likely a result of their own language consisting of high chirping. Kiritos then sat down between the two Captains. A special seat was made for him and it actually had a few stairs to ease the mounting of the chair.
- "So Prince Aurelian, I haven't heard of King of Stoinia around these parts?"
- "We recently discovered this previously unexplored space. Captain Mot has informed me this space is called the Tiyanki Territories?"
- "Yes yes, tell me have you seen a Tiyanki before?"
- "I haven't, your majesty."
- "Well I have and let me tell you they are quite majestic in their own weird way. Despite my people's wish to preserve their way of life, I was once able to explore outer space. I imagine I was about the same age as you when I first saw a Tiyanki. It seems we both share a period of wonder, young Prince."
- "I'll take your word for it, your majesty. Though, forgive me for asking, but why haven't your people gone to outerspace? You have plenty of contact with outsiders is it not?"
- "Ah... You underestimate the power of tradition and what it can do to a people, young Prince. My people are very stubborn and don't wish to destroy the bubble of tradition. From our feathers to our faith, all are enshrined with traditions and the Kihi people can't break that. Tradition is what are, to put it bluntly, keeping is down. But as one grows older, one learns the beauty of it all and can appreciate the lifestyle."
This came as a shock to Aurelian. Tradition was important too in Stoinia, but they hadn't inhibited Stoinian progress. Or did it? Perhaps there was both a warning and wisdom in the King's words. Aurelian couldn't help but question the King's words.
- "Your majesty, my people too value tradition. It's the very core of our identity so perhaps your theory is wro-"
- "No young Prince, it is as I say. My people have no wish to spread to the stars as yours does. To do so it would confuse my people and in their fear reinforce even older traditions. As for your people, I'm sure in some instances they inhibit your full capabilities. Captain Mot, didn't your people have biological augmentation?"
The Arkanian Captain was surprised by the King. Arkanian GeneTech was common knowledge, but not what one would expect from a King of a primitive species. Just what exactly had King Kiritos seen in his lifespan? The Arkanian Captain responded with a keen smile.
- "Yes, GeneTech as we call it. Though it only serves aid those with incurable or genetic diseases."
- "Well we certainly have similar standards in our Star Kingdom. Though there are heavy restrictions on augmentation." Aurelian quickly replied.
- "No doubt as the result of your people's religion?" King Kiritos replied already knowing the answer.
Aurelian had truly underestimated the Kihi King who showed having great insights. One could however hear a bit of regret or disappointment in his tone. Perhaps the King's dreams were still alive somewhere.
- "One could view it that way. But it isn't moral to change your genetic template just to make yourself better."
- "Not even in a war facing extinction?" Kiritos replied calmly examining the young Prince's face.
Now there the King had Aurelian. The Spartans were augmented not only genetically but also cybernetically. Created as means to halt the Velutarian advance on Stoinian planets. Even the most religious zealots would agree that without them, the Star Kingdom would have fallen and even the Great Regent MacArthur couldn't have stopped them. Aurelian however, couldn't allow knowledge of these Terran superweapons to fall into the wrong hands. Though he feared King Kiritos was already unto his tail.
- "Well, it would depend on the situation I guess."
- "Yes, young Prince. From what I've seen, change is the river of the universe. Despite my people quite literally living between falling and flowing waters, they still haven't been able to learn that lesson. One can try to stand as a rock in it, but even rocks erode. So I wonder, isn't it better to follow the current? Alas, let us not ponder on such sad thoughts. You are my guests after all! Have you tasted some of our Teali fruits yet, young Prince?"
The rest of the night, the Stoinians and Treecuu continued to celebrate with the Kihi and Arkanians. Kihi wine was drunken largely by the Kihi, Arkanians and of course Virini. Who more than loosened up after half a bottle. The Treecuu Limavu sticked to just water. From the few interactions Aurelian had with them later, they revealed that this Kihi water was quite tasteful to them. Something about the mineral composition of the water. Teali fruit was also a great success to both Treecuu species as they were vegetarians.
Aurelian would however get a short introduction on the astropolitics of the Tiyanki Territories by Captain Mot and even gained a few insights from King Kiritos. This region of space was in fact crawling with life and it wasn't just some dark uninhabited space. Wars, trade and religion were just a common place as the rest of the Sector. Perhaps for even longer. Aurelian had gained valuable intel here and was looking forward to meet one of the Jo'Dai Knights that Captain Mot spoke of with great praise. Even his homeworld of Arkania was a must-see for Aurelian. For now though, he enjoyed the rest of the night with the fine company. The following days, he'd report to Commodore Tuuc and Vice Admiral Cristina Lupei to reassess their exploration efforts with their new data. Though Aurelian couldn't help but ponder about King Kiritos' insights and commentary when trying to fall asleep again...

Pacifica: Myria, Sallodesia, Stoinia • A1-0: Stoinian Star Kingdom • Aurora: Kingdom of Threnebor

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Fringes of the Dunedari Free-Standings
J.F.S.S.  Relentless
24/06/1620 PD

The Relentless had gone a long way by now from the humble Kihi Kingdom. The map from the Arkanians had spearheaded the efforts of the 4th Fleet Division of the Joint Exploratory Fleet. Vice Admiral Lupei herself was most pleased and put the young royal in for a commendation. Aurelian's career was indeed already full of colours having received an accelerated education and receiving quick promotions. He feared this was due to his royal status, but he excelled in the navy. That was a truth and his now young career seemed to prove it. Though he wished to captain a Stoinian ship, his father had decided for him to join the Exploratory Fleet. When he first took command, with a Limavu as his superior no less, he wasn't sure what to think of his assignment. Now however, he realized there was plenty of opportunity in Operation Farsight. Terrans were out here and Stoinian doctrine dictated that they would form amiable relations with them. From Daonlathas to Pax Dracon this driving belief was made clear. Perhaps now that could become a form of stewardship with the Terran nations in the Territories.
Back home there was a major political shift, Ryan Adams had narrowly won the Chancellery elections. Once Aurelian was seriously considering supporting him, but now he had mixed feelings. Being out in the frontier and seeing primitive species, he began to question the need for Stoinian supremacy. King Kiritos was primitive yet wise and that combination was a real reality check for Aurelian. He began to realize that in their quest for dominance, they might become what the Mardakii were to them for other species like the Kihi. Was that really what he wished for his people? Perhaps this was the lesson his father wished him to learn. Aurelian continued to ponder while sitting in his chair viewing the Great Expanse on the viewscreen. It was quite a beauty to look at the giant clouds from ten of lightyears away from them. However, Virini exited the elevator.
- "Sir, I must say. I believe these Arkanians are a lying group of people. They call this space the Tiyanki Territories, yet we haven't seen a single one. One! Really we should start renaming this area. Here I have an excellent idea: Kontauri Free Space!"
Aurelian knew better than to demand seriousness from Virini in such situations, besides it helped change the landscape a bit from the dull and long space travel. Knowing Virini for a time, Aurelian was beginning to speculate Virini did this on purpose. To the detriment of the Cheunh, Limavu and Teetacs on board.
- "Come now Virini, I was expecting a more vigorous suggestion. Wouldn't you like one of the Expanses to be called the 'Great Virini Expanse'?"
- "Captain, that's a really good suggestion. I'll be sure to rename one of the smaller ones the 'Paso Leati Expanse'!"
- "Wonderful Virini."
The Teetac science officer then interrupted their discussion.
- "Captain, I'm getting an unknown signature. Its readings are unlike anything we've seen."
- "Is it one of the expanse clouds?"
- "No, Sir. Wait... It's moving."
- "Location?"
- "245-mark-043."
- "Helm lay in a course. Virini you better pray to your Great Maker to make your wish come true."
Virini chuckled at the thought. Meanwhile the Relentless changed course and went towards the strange readings. When they jumped out of warp, the viewscreen showed a faint red spot. After magnifying the image it soon became clear. It was a giant Tiyanki.
 

The Tiyanki Matriarch.

All species from the crew stopped for a second and were utterly mesmerize by the creature. For many it was the first time they saw an actual spaceborne organism. As the glowing red organs revealed its many tendrils and round head, this creature became accustomed to the eyes of the crew. Phrases were thrown all over the bridge By God, By Candact and of course Great Maker.
- "Lieutenant, is that a Tiyanki?"
- "Getting sensory data, Sir... Odd."
- "Odd? Explain."
- "The data seems to match, but the dimensions are way off. Normally a Tiyanki is just 200 to 400 meters in length, but this one is is over 1.000!"
Aurelian and the crew didn't know what to make of it. What were the chances they could stumble across such a monstrous Tiyanki? Finally Virini spoke up.
- "I'm no priest, but I would consider this a blessing from the Great Maker."
- "I think I'll take that. Lieutenant, keep scanning it. We might not get another chance like it."
- "Yes, Sir!"
The remaining hours or so, the crew of the Relentless continued to study the magnificent spaceborne creature. However this seeming moment of peace wasn't to last. The tactical Cheunh officer recalled Aurelian back to the bridge. This wasn't a good sign by any means.
- "What is it Lieutenant Commander?"
- "Sir, five incoming ships."
- "How far are they?"
- "0,8 AU, Sir."
- "How long before they are within visual range?"
- "Two minutes, Sir."
- "All right, go to yellow alert and maintain position. I want to know their every movement."
- "Aye, Sir."
The Relentless waited for a couple of minutes and as soon as it entered visual range, the ships revealed their affiliation. The Dunedari Free-Standings. Aurelian was sent to investigate their borders before Commodore Tuuc and the rest of the 11th Squadron could catch up with him. They were to investigate the Dunedari together, but fate again had other plans for them...
 

The Dunedari Warship.

Pacifica: Myria, Sallodesia, Stoinia • A1-0: Stoinian Star Kingdom • Aurora: Kingdom of Threnebor

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Fringes of the Dunedari Free-Standings
J.F.S.S. Relentless
24/06/1620 PD

It took a little over half an hour for the universal translators to figure the message sent by the Dunedari. The Relentless was positioned between the two groups of vessels. The Tiyanki-Matriarch even "flew" away from incoming ships as if she already knew who they are. Luckily, the Dunedari ships showed remarkable patience as well. Aurelian knew something was afoot in this whole situation. He hoped now that the translators were working he would gain some information. Remarkably enough, it seemed their language was remarkably similar to Stoinian Skandian dialects. This of course was a good sign to Aurelian. It meant they shared some ancestry with these people, or so they speculated.
- "This is Chief Captain Peldir Setiakar of the D.W. Song of Fire of the Dunedari Free-Standings. You are standing between us and the prize. We will assume you're hostile if you don't identify yourselves in one hour."
Well, there he had it. Fate was smiling on Aurelian once again and he had plenty of time. There no longer was a need for the standard Cole Protocols when initiating first contact. It certainly might have made an impression, if the Mardakii skull wasn't a clear sign on itself, but it clearly had backfired. While some Treecuu officials within Joint Exploratory Fleet Command admired this Stoinian initiative, both governments agreed that perhaps they should be more prudent with such vivid imagery. Aurelian would now respond kindly to his distant Terran brethren.
- "This is Captain Aurelian Stoian of the J.F.S.S. Relentless representing the Stoinian Star Kingdom and the Treecuu Star Empire. We're new to the Tiyanki Territories and are on a mission of exploration. We have no hostile intention towards you. I repeat, we have no hostile intentions."
It took a few moments before the a live feed of the Dunedari Captain appeared. It seemed the language files sent by the Stoinians was compatible with their. A tall muscular pale Terran with red hair and blue facial tattoos. This combination, Aurelian didn't anticipate. It proved how truly diverse Mankind could be. 
- "We haven't heard of these Kingdoms. Why are you standing between us and the prize?" Setiakar said with an inquisitive and sharp tongue.
- "We're from at least 150 lightyears away and what is this prize you speak of?" Aurelian replied.
- "The Tiyanki, it's a hunting prize worthy of the coming of age of the Jarla! It's a sign from the Gods and it will earn our place in Valshara!"
- "Jarla? Valshara? Com, explain." Aurelian turned to the female Lieutenant.
- "A sort of Queen and Afterlife, Sir. Though we aren't certain."
- "We will claim this prize worthy of the Jarla. Do not stand in-between us." The Dunedari replied to Aurelian and then cut off communication.
Well then... No pleasantries I guess. Aurelian looked over at the Cheunh Tactical Officer who then displayed the battle map. The three Dunedari warships were fast approaching the Tiyanki-Matriarch and they were much larger than the Relentless. The creature was starting to move away from the incoming ships, but it was much slower. Aurelian didn't know what to do. The creature had done nothing wrong, but risking a war with the Dunedari wasn't an option either. Virini then spoke up.
- "Captain! We must protect that Tiyanki, it's a sign from the Great Maker!"
- "Captain I must protest this action!" A Treecuu Officer spoke up from behind him. "We cannot jeopardize our relations with these Dunedari."
- "BY angering the Great Maker?! Clearly your infidel species is far too short sighted to comprehend the nature of the universe!"
- "Perhaps that's why we rule over other species unlike yours."
- "GAH!"
- "Shut up!" Aurelian silenced the bridge and stopped the pointless squabbling. They wanted a prize, Aurelian perhaps had one. It was a secret tradition within the Stoian family ever since Alexandru I and perhaps now it could help solve the dilemma he was facing. Though the Dunedari, now fully committed to their hunting fever, wouldn't stop until they could claim their prize. Despite being outnumbered, Aurelian had a plan. "Battle stations." The bridge flared red as the siren hauled through the entire room. 
- "Captain, who shall we target?" The Cheunh Tactical Officer asked for Aurelian's orders.
- "Target the Dunedari ships, but aim for their weapons systems. What's their technology status?"
- "Captain... We're scanning through their shields."
- "Good, then targeting their weapons won't be a problem. Helm, initiate attack manoeuvre delta."
And so the Relentless and its crew set on for their first combat in the Tiyanki Territories and it was against Stoinian Brethren. Not what King Andrei III had expected his son to initiate when sending him on Operation Farsight.

Pacifica: Myria, Sallodesia, Stoinia • A1-0: Stoinian Star Kingdom • Aurora: Kingdom of Threnebor

(This post was last modified: 10-02-2021, 03:12 PM by Maverick.)

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Fringes of the Dunedari Free-Standings
J.F.S.S. Relentless
24/06/1620 PD

The Dunedari Warships were fast and agile, quickly travelling towards the large Tiyanki. Despite their manoeuvrability, their technological level seemed far less advanced compared to even the Stoinians. Aurelian even prohibited the usage of the MAC-Cannon as to not damage the Dunedari too much. The Treecuu Officers were perplexed, but when taking into calculation the Stoinian principle of Stoinian at heart, but Terran by blood it all became clear. To their Stoinian Commander, these were his people. As one of the heirs of the Stoinian King, who also wore the title of Protector of Mankind, it was his ancestral duty to protect all Terrans everywhere. Or at least that was the theory. In practice however, this proved much more difficult.
- "Enemy ships in weapons range!" The Limavu Sensors Officer shouted. Aurelian doubted his orders for the next few heartbeats, but saw no other alternative.
- "Fire, aim for their weapons."
The phaser beam arrays of the Gagarin-class flared up the dark void as their beams hit the Dunedari with utter precision. These arrays were a joint innovation by the Stoinian and Treecuu Engineering Divisions of the Joint Fleet. The first shots fired against hostiles had the desired effect. The Dunedari shields took a decent hit, but as every Stoinian Captain know, a ship's survivability was determined by its armour. The Dunedari fired back with autocannons and missiles. In essence, they were firing with bullets at high speeds at them. The bullets were caught by the gravitational shielding and the hauling Dunedari missiles exploded upon contact with the shields. Luckily the Stoinian shields held up without any problem as the phasers continued to disarm the Dunedari warships. It only took the Stoinians and Treecuu merely ten minutes to disarm the Dunedari as their shields couldn't withstand the Relentless' weaponry. The Dunedari ships however continued to circle around Relentless and Aurelian waited for them to hail him. The Dunedari vessels continued to circle closer and closer, provoking Aurelian into initiating a response.
- "Dunedari Warships, stand down or face destruction. We don't wish to harm you. The choice is yours."
- "Sir, Dunedari ships are gaining speed. They're going for a ramming course."
- "Engage tractor beams."
- "Sir, we can't toe them all."
- "Divert power from shields if you have to!"
As the Relentless now was put under strain. The Dunedari ships were halted, if not by mere tens of meters. It seemed that the technological supremacy had saved the day and the lives of the Dunedari. Though they weren't too keen to share any gratitude. The lead Dunedari Captain reappeared on the screen with a temper worse than before and clearly wasn't in a particularly kind mood.
- "What is it you want? You deny our hunt and then our right to claim our place in Valshara?!"
Aurelian stood up from his chair and looked sternly right back into the eyes of the Dunedari Captain. 
- "Now listen here before I give you a dishonourable death. We want nothing but peace in this region and you will take us to your Jarla before I ensure you won't be able to claim your place in Valshara."

Pacifica: Myria, Sallodesia, Stoinia • A1-0: Stoinian Star Kingdom • Aurora: Kingdom of Threnebor

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