Beyond 'X' Book III finished (last post ch16 Pt I+II 7th Oct 09)

[Paranoid66]

[[Ten coninued.]]

“Anything interesting in the media.” [Harbinger asked.]

“The terrorists have been officially identified as ‘Dark Son Freedom Fighters’. An outlawed organisation dedicated to a policy of ‘Omerta’ isolation from alien affairs: Most notably a full ban on the contamination of ‘Sanctuary Orbs’ surface by unclean outsiders who would pollute the high values of Trojan society.” [I send.]

“That almost sounds Paradoxical if you know what I mean.” [Harbinger sends glowing yellow.]

“Sometimes Harbinger you are far too easily amused: I actually think you are enjoying this.” [I send.]

[Snowship]

Is this the small steps to a type of separation for Harbringer & MT

I like the introduction of a hostage situation there Paranoid.... very movieish


Keep em coming

[Paranoid66]

As Ever Snowship thanks for the comments.

Separation between MT and Harbinger cannot comment on something like that.

I confess I found myself thinking about Die Hard mixed with a bit of Predator when I started doing the terrorist part.

I like the Idea of the 'Sanctuary Orb' as this big melting pot of Trojan nations with historic bad blood between them.

Poor old 'Orb Guidance'.

[Paranoid66]

[[ELEVEN]]

[Location: Shroud Suit designated as Avatar Beta One’, Terra Nova hotel, Vantage Four Hyper-city, Icarus Domains, Sanctuary Orb, Dark Coordinate, Tier II Space, Inner Systems, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 04:03.][Date 12.02.04SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 12.02.01.]

[The Paradox ‘Shroud Suit’ pedigree stretches all the way back to simple hard-shelled Vacuum Suits. Initially less sophisticated versions of Suit Substance appeared as an outer flexible skin for solid mechanical internals.]

[Today many of the latest designs do not even have fixed internal frames only - standard - shape configurations with even the bone structure being alterable. The inspiration for our modern Suit Substance technology came direct from ancient historic observations of the Emissary in action.]

[A lot of my own hull consists of a material that is close kin to modern Suit Substance only it is by comparison (in most areas) somewhat less sophisticated. The reason for the ‘Living Hull’ downgrade is simple if our hulls were as high tech as a ‘Shroud Suit’ all over; we would require an awful lot more neural capacity simply to control our own body’s mass.]

[Conversely today more and more of the entire physical component structure of even cheap ‘Shroud Suits’ has its base in malleable Suit Substance: A miraculous biomechanical science designed at a molecular level then reproduced in vats as a self replicating biomass when fed the necessary resources.]

[Suit Substance can combine or split it can flow almost as free as a thick liquid or solidify into shapes of varying hardness, density and electrical resistance from superconductor status to a material that makes almost perfect insulation and all this upon neural command.]

[In this age even complex mechanical devices with moving parts can be formed the possibilities limited primarily by available energy, suit biomass, programming and most vitally of all that overall neural capacity required for precise control.]

[A modern ‘Shroud Suit’ is almost a distinct organism retaining a subconscious mind of its own that maintains all the necessary self-formed equipment, hydraulic plumbing and so on that supply its wearers needs and desires not to mention the integrated programs that shape its standard commonly recognised form and shape shifting apparatus.]

[As a result of the close symbiosis involved, I suspect that ‘Shroud Suit’ technology is currently pushing the genetic engineering of the Paradox’s own bodies. If Harbinger is any clue it is a desire for better / fuller integration with their wondrous biomechanical second skins, that is now the prime focus and pinnacle of Tier Nine Paradox forced evolution.]

[Today the best suits are a little restricted in their wider potential by the provision of their Paradox user’s physical requirements. It is not surprising that Harbinger - relatively speaking - is all mind and neural interfaces and very little body.]

[Given the earlier facts, other species find it increasingly difficult to separate the Paradox species from their outer clothing. Nonetheless, operate a modern ‘Shroud Suit’ remotely and it can become something else entirely as Harbinger had discovered.]



[The Trojan air conditioning ducts proved a perfect channel for Harbinger’s Avatar to negotiate (once it shifted its shape well beyond any form a Paradox Priest living inside could have tolerated). It was essential to spread as much weight as possible over as wide a surface area as was practical or the Suit would fall through the deliberately flimsy conduit rather than snake along it as desired.]

[To me having my mentality housed in such an odd form felt a little strange but Harbinger seemed untroubled having had a lot of practice lately. Training and adroitness had kept his laboratory investigations alive despite all Draakhaal’s many snares.]

[I knew that despite finding a laboratory Harbinger was far from ready to give up the surveillance part of his operation: My Captain wanted a firm sighting of Draakhaal and to find at least one more laboratory / factory facility. Harbinger was convinced the foe would have more than a single Stage III clone factory.]

[Here and now the iris valve hatches proved no difficulty a judicious cut and they sprang open rather conveniently under their own power. We made wonderful progress through the Hotel level by level in fact; it soon became routine.]

[I started believing getting to level Thirty-Three was going to be easy when there was a bright flare a loud noise and everything went blank. Seconds later I reconnected, spread across level Eleven’s deck. The Suit was still operational if minus some tore away and deliberately ejected burning suit mass.]

[Our Tri-optics registered a scene of destruction but our ‘Shroud Suits’ recovery rate was phenomenal. All, around us, there were scorch marks melted, hot and or twisted metal and a few small fires stubbornly refusing to submit to spraying water yet we where soon standing upright surveying the damage.]

[Without a Paradox to protect and maintain inside, our Avatar’s suit was typically much freer to shift, absorb and recreate internal equipment as needed. Obviously all the life support gear was no longer required so the suit had redeployed that mass to other purposes. As a result, upon checking a diagnostic I was both pleased to note that despite absorbing a powerful blast - pardon the pun - we were still in good shape.]

[Our shield repaired and automatically flickered on again.]

“I guess they saw us coming.” [Harbinger sends looking up through a newly extruded Tri-optic.]

“I guess they did.” [I send.]

“Sorry, I got careless.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Once again we both did, still they probably think we are dead now.” [I send.]

[Harbinger paused for a moment meditating on that idea.]

“Yes ‘MT’ that is a real possibility.” [Harbinger sends sensing around for anything that would give our true condition away. We found only one thing a rather low-tech security camera unit not surprisingly damaged by the ferocity of the blast. In fact, this entire section of corridor near an exit to the stairs and two lifts looked like a war zone.]

“The luck of the Emissary must be with us.” [Harbinger sends glowing yellow.]

“What are you thinking?” [I send.]

“I am thinking if I was them I would want to - make sure - the beast was dead.” [Harbinger sends.]

[We lay back down and Harbinger considered his use of weapons running through various possibilities on a long menu and rejecting most of them.]

[At first, I did not question it further. It seemed a valid tactical decision to set a trap and reduce the opposition’s numbers. Why should we not kill some of them? After all they were the law breakers, they were the terrorists they had trapped us in this building in the first place and would be the ones coming to make sure they had succeeded in murdering us for no other reason than the fact we were different to them.]

[Their intent here was plainly evil enough. Retaining more than a little bias after suffering the explosion I myopically concluded they were guilty and deserved retribution. What did it matter that we were technically not even alive - just a remote - they did not know that.]

[Time passed then one of the lifts showed activity somebody was travelling down from the Fifteenth floor. As Harbinger moved a partially concealed Tri-optic, the door opened and two grenades arced out towards us.]

[Harbinger reacted instantly. By catching the dangerous devices in hastily erected manipulation fields, he was able to send them spinning straight back whence they had come. The door to the lift closed again.]

[I imagined curses of surprise and alarm emanating from inside that public transport, what we did hear was twin muffled explosions. Directly following the booms Harbinger turned our microphone gain up whilst projecting a listening sensor to the door on the end of a superfine cable of suit substance.]

[Listening in we easily discerned cries of sharp pain and lower moans of disabling agony from the other side. Harbinger leaped up off the floor and ran to the mildly buckled portal wrenching it fully open using quickly extruded limbs. Through curling smoke, we powered into the heat and flame.]

[For an instant I thought Harbinger was going to rescue the wounded. Instead I barely felt the hard and cruel charging impact that sent one staggering body hurtling with deadly force to smash against the far wall broken and dead.]

[Sharp extruded suit substance slid out to form twin blades that glinted in the unsteady firelight. Our tri-optic vision sliced through the dirty haze and the artificial rain to find other targets. A skilful lunge took a confused enemy in the chest a powerful cut tore the life from another equally stunned opponent.]

[A little sickened I registered the dreadful sounds of ripping flesh and bone, the patter of fluids splashing into the hiss of the fire one suggestive scream cut short. At the last, a precise stab this one a plain mercy killing of a ragged burning almost corpse and the dreadful claustrophobic action was fully over to my Captain’s grim satisfaction.]

[I was shocked and still a little surprised that anybody had managed to survive the fragmentation grenade explosions in such a confined area in the first place.]

[As the water helped to wash the smoke away, I counted the strewn bodies coming to a tally of seven. I belatedly remembered that Harbinger had drawn the first blood down in the lobby and had now added to his toll of victims with little sign of remorse.]

[Could we have reasoned with these poor souls before we commenced to butcher them alive? Blood always called out for blood. Where we becoming the heartless alien beast they believed us to be? One thing I knew for sure, when the hostiles discovered the carnage here the hunt would be on - there was no going back.]

[Harbinger checked the remains over. We discovered all of those who survived the blasts initial fury bar one had possessed weak personal shield systems. Harbinger hoisted up one backpack unit that had managed to survive all the action relatively intact and took it apart.]

“A bulky and inefficient device with a short battery life - probably illegally manufactured here - from smuggled in components.” [Harbinger sends discarding it to the floor in pieces.]

“Still none of the terrorists in the lobby had anything like that.” [I send.]

“Maybe this was an elite hunter killer squad.” [Harbinger sends.]

“If you had left somebody alive we could have asked.” [I send.]

“If I had left any alive we might not be able to. They had more grenades and explosives I guess they were lucky no more of that stuff went off.” [Harbinger sends collecting some of the inert low-tech explosives and storing them in his suit.]

“It is interesting that they managed to operate this lift despite the lockdown.” [I send.]

“Cramming together like that in one conveyance was not very wise.” [Harbinger sends.]

“They thought we were dead.” [I send.]

“If I had been them I would have taken the stairs.” [Harbinger sends.]

“With hindsight it is always possible to make the right decisions.” [I send.]

[I noticed Harbinger piercing one of the bodies.]

“What are you doing?” [I send.]

“Laying an egg what do you think?” [Harbinger sends.]

“Did you just deposit what I think you did?” [I send.]

“How would I know?” [Harbinger sends glowing yellow.]

“Captain you could bring this place down around us.” [I send.]

“Trust me I know what I am doing.” [Harbinger sends.]

“This action seems a bit extreme.” [I send.]

“So were their choices think about it ‘MT’ of course they hoped we were dead - but they did not know for sure. Therefore, what did they do they dispatched a team of killers to murder us even if we had survived the blast wounded. Did you think they were playing with those grenades - a little stupid - if you ask me, but not exactly friendly?” [Harbinger sends.]

“I hope they are all this ill advised. Personal shield systems indicate these ‘Dark Son’ are a better equipped operation than I had thought judging by the lobby.” [I send.]

“Like I said crude stuff unless they have better those will hardly save them. I am almost tempted to go fully offensive now and deal with these criminals myself. If most of their gear is tech level restricted we could take all of them without any need for assistance - laying down the law might even be fun.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Careful Captain, remember they have a great many hostages and when did killing people become pleasurable to you?” [I send.]

“The moment they thought they could hunt me down like big game.” [Harbinger sends.]

“We did the first killing Harbinger.” [I send.]

“If I had given them the least opportunity we would have been shot full of holes down there in the lobby and you know it. You heard what they said. When you name an opponent simply as - a beast - you are not planning to give - it - the status of a fellow citizen you are making excuses in your mind for carving it up without remorse and using its head as a trophy.” [Harbinger sends.]

“So you have paid them back in kind.” [I send.]

“These ‘Omerta’ are not innocent victims. It will however be interesting to see just how dim they are.” [Harbinger sends as he stretched up to open a service hatch in the lifts ceiling.]

“I thought we were avoiding this route.” [I send as Harbinger dragged himself upward into the elevator shaft.]

“That was then.” [Harbinger sends staring at of all things - load-baring cabling - he also noticed open blast doors all the way up to floor fifteen.]

“This place is such an odd mixture of the modern and the archaic imagine still using cabling here. Look at the retracted floor dividing blast doors they are not even fully air tight they need to maintain gaps for the cabling to pass through if I had known that earlier…” [My Captain sends to me before grasping at the cables.]

“I think the outer lift doors were airtight.” [I send in explanation.]

“That seems like a weak defence. Some of these Nations are shockingly primitive. I doubt there is any sophisticated viral agent involved in this operation. None of these rebels had anti biological hazard suits on or any other noticeable protection against a virulent deadly contaminant. Look at the scans of this shaft there are signs more sophisticated gear was stripped out of here a very long time ago to me that suggest a thoroughness edging towards institutionalised paranoia on the part of ‘Orb Guidance’.” [Harbinger sends.]

“So you do not think the terrorists have an effective vaccine or some kind of immunity still the contaminant release could have been deliberately isolated to a specific floor.” [I send.]

“Honestly I doubt they would risk it. The outer building has good biohazard seals but internally the protections in place are diabolical. Would you risk letting off a deadly viral if you had little defence against it?” [Harbinger sends.]

“Perhaps they really are stupid. Outside they still seem to be taking the threat seriously enough.” [I send.]

“Scare tactics to help keep the local population in line.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Would that not play into the terrorists hands?” [I send.]

“Not necessarily in a way it could be a reinforcing demonstration of why they need such over the top restrictions as this low level technology cap.” [Harbinger replied commencing to haul his suit upward.]

“Damascus did not strike me as the product of an oppressive and paranoid regime.” [I send.]

[Harbinger climbed without comment for a bit before replying.]

“True but these policies may not touch more enlightened regions of this ‘Sea Sphere’.” [Harbinger sends.]

[I considered that as Harbinger sent anchor lines out and swung across to the fifteenth floor’s closed door. Having learned his lesson, he began drilling a small hole to accommodate a probing sensor stalk.]

“You know at this rate if they can use the lifts by the time we get up to level Thirty-Three if the target is Crystal she will be gone or will be firmly in their custody.” [I send.]

“I know even if I squeeze through the gaps in the various lift shafts’ blast doors. Nonetheless, I am hoping they have no easy way out of this building and that they hope to use her from here as a lever in direct negotiations.” [Harbinger sends.]

[Poking his sensor through the hole once on the other side it formed a Tri-optic bud and looked about the immediate area. This section of corridor looked deserted by twisting the stalk around he could see there was no booby traps upon the door either. Retracting the device he extruded two potent limbs latched on and forced the unlocked door fully open.]

“You are praying they will simply secure her where they find her.” [I send.]

[Harbinger going stealthy moved in a few paces looking both ways at once using an extra Tri-optic the area remained empty. He paused.]

“That squad below should have kept a back up team here. Maybe they do not have military style training after all or only some of them do.” [Harbinger sends.]

“They are irregular criminal forces.” [I send.]

“Regarding Crystal, and speaking generally moving hostages around always involves an added degree of risk. If sealed in this building and unable to get anywhere else right now why bother trying?” [Harbinger sends.]

“Why send a team down crammed together in a lift?” [I send.]

“Please detach a few bugs and scout this area out.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Remember Harbinger criminals are no more logical or sensible than anyone else often in fact a lot less than most.” [I send releasing the remotes.]

“I think they know what they are doing well enough overall they thankfully just do not fully appreciate what they are dealing with in regards to us.” [Harbinger sends.]

“No direct contact with aliens in generations.” [I send while relaying the bug’s data.]

“Precisely, I imagine all they know about us is wild rumour and insane propaganda.” [Harbinger sends resting tight against a wall to monitor several visual feeds.]

“Strange we have seen no sign of any other civilians.” [I send.]

“Perhaps they are staying put in their rooms as requested.” [Harbinger sends.]

“All the corridors here are clear.” [I send.]

“I think we should have a look let’s unlock some of these doors.” [Harbinger sends.]

[The rooms in the hotel used solid metal keys. Harbinger moved up to one and extruded a tiny amount of suit substance into the void of the keyhole. He expanded the fluid then hardened and turned it before realising to his amusement the door was already unlocked.]

[Checking up the hall for cameras he dropped suit stealth and activated the TCF making it so he would appear as a member of the hotels staff to any Trojan we met. For a second Harbinger listened at the door then opened it and stepped in.]

[It was instantly obvious someone had occupied the room but there was no sign of that guest or guests. We moved on to another, this time, locked room after gaining entry it proved unused, the following one we checked out was the same. The fourth was unlocked and showed signs of occupation but no guests.]

[The fifth room was unlocked and one wall displayed weapon hits. We found a body of a Trojan male with some serious holes in it sprawled on the floor. We searched the corpse although judging by the disarray of the Trojan’s clothes others had beaten us to that activity. We found no identity card or credit chips or any other significant item that would explain exactly who this person had been. What we did discover was a small empty weapon holster strapped to one shin.]

“They must have swept this floor and moved the people they found here. This fool had the means and unwisely attempted to resist on his own.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Harbinger the great detective.” [I send humorously.]

[My Captain ignored my comment.]

“So they are moving hostages after all.” [I send.]

“So it would seem.” [Harbinger sends.]

“This is madness Harbinger what is the point in going all the way up to Thirty-Three only to discover Crystal may no longer be there.” [I send.]

“You are right we need better intelligence before we continue upward.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Maybe we should contact Damascus after all it is his daughter in here.” [I send.]

“I have a better idea. Have those bugs keep covering the hallway.” [Harbinger sends.]

[Harbinger created an Exogenous link to Rage.]

“Harbinger I wondered when you would call me how is your holiday going.” [Rage sends.]

“Wonderful I am staying in the ‘Terra Nova Hotel’.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Is it a fun place I have never been there it must be nice to be a celebrity with access to all areas.” [Rage sends.]

“Like I said it is wonderful. Check the local news about my location and you will understand why.” [Harbinger sends.]

[Silence.]

“I see what you mean got yourself caught up in a little local difficulty.” [Rage sends clearly amused.]

“Something like that only these difficulties seemed to have prior knowledge that I was here.” [Harbinger sends.]

[Silence.]

“Before you ask I am not guilty, you are worth a lot more to me alive as a future friend than dead as a very short term ex colleague.” [Rage sends.]

“Thanks I appreciate the warmth of your comradeship.” [Harbinger sends.]

“So what do you need?” [Rage sends.]

“I need some facts. I need to know who talked or leaked so I can figure out whom to trust. Crystal is here as well but we have become separated. We also could use a safe way out of this building the hostiles seem to think we will be killed offhand if we try to leave the quarantined area.” [Harbinger sends.]

“What are you going to do in the meantime.” [Rage sends.]

“I think we may just have to concentrate on staying functional and making life difficult for these backward ‘Omerta’.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Careful with that attitude Harbinger only some of those Trojans may be technologically restricted.” [Rage sends.]

“Perhaps, do you think you can help us with our needs?” [Harbinger sends.]

“I have a few connections that I can trust - within certain limits. I will require access to some expensive trade goods.” [Rage sends.]

“I’ll have ‘MT’ cooperate with that - within reason.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Great I’ll be in touch as soon as I have anything solid to report.” [Rage sends.]

“Try not to take too long.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You could just self destruct your suit and activate a new Avatar on your ship.” [Rage sends.]

“I could but what about Crystal.” [Harbinger sends.]

“She is just another ‘Omerta’ there are billions more here.” [Rage sends.]

“Very racist of you she is a potential friend and a connection to higher authority worth cultivating.” [Harbinger sends.]

“That is why I like you Harbinger - business not just sentiment - now that I can understand.” [Rage sends.]

“That Paradox Pirate rogue hardly knows you at all.” [I privately send.]

“Try not to take too long this could get boring.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Some things you cannot rush. Find a hole to hide in for a while; the media here seem to think this is going to be a long standoff. The ‘Dark Son’ has a lot of hostages and the Trojan are sentimental about there own citizens safety unless they are at war.” [Rage sends.]

“I will think about that.” [Harbinger sends signing off.]

“Not a bad idea Harbinger the more active we are the more heat we will draw.” [I send.]

“I hate inactivity.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Minimise the cycles of this thread or find something else to do with it. Crystal could be anywhere in here by now.” [I send.]

“I know if only this place had a central monitoring facility we could hack but it all appears to be compartmentalised in places almost down to a single level.” [Harbinger sends.]

“According to the media no single company owns all the floors here another reason why it is such a major tourist attraction. It also helps to explain why no single lift shaft goes all the way up and down anymore. A lot of sections have their own independent lift system.” [I send.]

“I suppose that also makes sense of some of the diverse styles of furnishings.” [Harbinger sends.]

“After the war the building was gutted inside and the levels were divided up by ‘Orb Guidance’ as part of a post war settlement to a host of different groups. That these people would have to share facilities in some areas was an object lesson in enforced cooperation. Regions such as the lobbies and reception areas have mixed staff otherwise however they can and do operate their business independently of each other as much as possible.” [I send.]

“These ‘Omerta’ just love to maintain their divisions they are as divided as the Stellar.” [Harbinger sends in complaint.]

“Shall I find us a good place to hide?” [I send.]

“I suppose so. I can play the waiting game when I must.” [Harbinger sends.]

[A little later squeezed into a nook between floors thirteen and fourteen at a conduit where Harbinger could tap into the buildings electrical power supply we started talking again.]

“It is funny.” [Harbinger sends.] “Sometimes so much of our life appears to orbit around others it is all reaction to action. Take our long association with Hierophant Cad even ignoring Draakhaal.”

“Do you ever wish you had never met your Trojan Professor friend?” [I send.]

“If we had not met Cad would we be who we are?” [Harbinger sends.]

“Perhaps we would be better.” [I send.]

“Perhaps we would be worse.” [Harbinger countered.]

“All I can say is it is a good thing Drooshuu’s mad advisor perished on the ‘Stellar Orb’ given all the trouble he has caused.” [I send.]

“I wonder will Cad ever tell us the whole truth about those times.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Does anybody ever tell anyone else the - whole - truth?” [I send.]

[Harbinger fell silent perhaps I had hit a nerve.]

“I am beginning to fear no one ever does especially to themselves we all subconsciously lie a little.” [Harbinger sends.]

“We have both become shockingly cynical. I sense something is troubling you?” [I send.]

“If you could have anything ‘MT’ what would you want?” [Harbinger sends.]

[That caused me to pause for thought.]

“I would like to have a child with full self determination. It is too late for me if I changed that much I would no longer be me. However, to be the parent of a new free breed of ‘Living Hull’ with no psychological requirement for an Owner Captain that would be a legacy worth having.” [I send.]

“You really have been dwelling on your demise you want to give something to the ages - to be part of something greater.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I truly believe my people are capable of being more than just vehicles. When you Paradox Priests made us you did better than you realised and are now to some extent stifling our wider potential for unlimited growth.” [I send.]

“You have a noble but dangerous dream. ‘Living Hulls’ without Captains could become as great a scourge to other forms of sentient life as any Stage III ‘Void Dweller’.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You do not appreciate the full measure of your own work. We ‘Living Hulls’ have nothing in common with Draakhaals cruel and vindictive ‘Void Dwellers’. We would not proliferate like a cancer we would not be in direct competition with you we would just seek our own destiny among the stars.” [I send.]

[Harbinger fell into a meditative silence.]

“What about you Captain if you could have anything what would you want?” [I send.]

“Honestly, today I find that question exceptionally difficult to answer.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Do you not trust me?” [I send.]

“It is not that.” [Harbinger sends.]

“What is it then?” [I send.]

“I am greedy there are so many things that I desire that I find it hard to prioritise my dreams right now. So all I would be left with would be some inanely simple generalisation to try to cover it all like say - tranquillity.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Tranquillity can you be serious? Tranquillity would bore you Harbinger.” [I send.]

[Harbinger glowed yellow.]

“I was not talking about a tranquil Universe I was speaking of a degree of tranquillity deep within myself a well of stillness and contentment. Blessed contentment would negate such minor evils as boredom and the occasional craving for excitement that invariably takes us into violent action.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You seem calmer and more at peace now than in a long time - recently you appear to know where you are going and to be very much in control of how you plan to get there - this little distraction aside. I even noticed when you killed those Trojans you felt no rage in fact your controlled emptiness was a little scary.” [I send.]

“I thought you knew me better than that. Remember ‘MT’ when one assumes command, it is important to have a commanding demeanour. As to detachment, since I am not physically here emotions are easier to control when working through an Avatar. It is surprising how much passion is born from unacknowledged fear of death.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Is there no other way than all this murder?” [I send.]

“If we want to save the hostages killing becomes tactically essential.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Is it not wrong to let criminals constantly criminalise us?” [I send.]

“A warship that insists on seeing killing as an immoral crime maybe you are right maybe you ‘Living Hulls’ are underestimated or maybe these virtues are just this strong in you my contradictory ‘Many Truths’.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I am not so special among my people save that I have a better Captain than most.” [I send.]

“So compliments are contagious.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I have suffered worse infections.” [I send.]

“Taking undue risks in battle is a dangerous habit even through a remote. One poorly considered move (a moment of the wrong sort of weakness) in person and it is over for good, I have seen it happen too many times to others. It is too easy to slip - look at that explosion we got caught in - if I had been inside this suit I might have been severely injured possibly even killed I confess that annoyed me a little.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I wish you would stop hiding some of your feelings from me I am not the enemy.” [I send.]

“Some burdens should be mine and mine alone it is only right that they are filtered out.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I disagree we are only greater than the sum of our parts when we fully embrace each other when the three the ‘Living Hull’ the Paradox and even the ‘Shroud Suit’ become one a holy trinity I thought you of all people understood that.” [I send.]

“That has become a little difficult right now. I know you would not approve of some of the things I must do. I value your opinion of me ‘MT’, right now I cannot stand to have you judging my every action; fighting Draakhaal is difficult enough without an internal conflict as well.” [Harbinger sends.]

“The travails of genuine friendship are much more difficult to negotiate than the snares of enmity.” [I send.]

“That my ‘Many Truths’ is so true only disappointing our friends hurts.” [Harbinger sends in confession.]



[Location: Shroud Suit designated as Avatar Beta One’, Terra Nova hotel, Vantage Four Hyper-city, Icarus Domains, Sanctuary Orb, Dark Coordinate, Tier II Space, Inner Systems, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 04.57][Date 12.02.04SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 12.02.01.]

“Harbinger look at this.” [I send relaying a prioritised feed from one of the bugs.]

“So they have found the bodies.” [Harbinger sends glowing yellow.]

“They do not look very happy.” [I send.]

“What this lot looks like hardly matters. Come on in I have been waiting for you - and here they come - now that is really stupid.” [Harbinger sends.]

[Once our bug had raced away to safety Harbinger activated the device he had left behind earlier in the corpse. A booming rumble actually shook our distant nook.]

“That is the hard way to find a booby trap. That was cold Captain.” [I send.]

“Actually that dampened ‘AM’ micro munitions warhead was very, very hot and they were the ones that first introduced explosives to this game remember. It would appear these particular ‘Omerta’ are fools.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I suspect the survivors elsewhere will learn quickly from the mistakes made by their unfortunate dead.” [I send.]

“If they do not they will not be survivors for very long.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I hope all those rooms were empty down there Harbinger.” [I send.]

“I am confident they are.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You have made a bit of a void.” [I send.]

“This building can take it. This hotels load bearing structure (if nothing else) is very advanced and quite capable of adapting and compensating for some localised internal damage.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Just be careful remember those ‘AM’ micro-munitions are not really designed for use in enclosed spaces as I recall us discovering before on previous missions.” [I send.]

“I wish Rage would hurry up and get back to us with some good news.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I am sure when he said it might take a while he meant more than a few hours local time. Are you even sure Rage is on our side?” [I send.]

“If he was not I feel certain these Trojan would be a lot better informed of our capabilities and would not be so bold.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Perhaps or maybe they are just being used up by some uncaring plotter to keep us distracted.” [I send.]

“You are developing a very suspicious mind.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You are doing a lot of casual killing here.” [I send.]

“I am happy to leave them alone while they leave us alone.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Of course you are.” [I send.]

“Do you not believe me.” [Harbinger sends glowing yellow.]

“I used to know you more fully.” [I send.]

“It is better this way.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I do not think so.” [I send.]

[Harbinger dropped into a stretching silence that I eventually interrupted.]

“Rage worries me Pirates betray easily Captain I imagine Rage is measuring his potential future profits on a finely balanced scale every second of every day.” [I send.]

“I imagined that as well why do you think I trust him to some degree? I went to great lengths to show him the wonderful advantages of working with us.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I find the idea of recruiting Paradox Pirates more than a little disturbing.” [I send.]

“In ‘Tier II Space’ Paradox Pirates are almost regular folks.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I find that troubling as well and so should you.” [I send.]

“I hate waiting.” [Harbinger complained.]

“Going by our bug in the lobby the Trojan are camping out for a long stay squabbling, eating, taking regular bodily waste disposal brakes, fraternising with some of the hostages and generally lazing about. I guess if they are after publicity the longer they can drag this one out by their reckoning the better they will be doing.” [I send.]

“I see there is still nothing at all in the local media about Crystal. If they have her and are negotiating it must be in secret.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Maybe they are trying to force Damascus to do something personal for them on the quiet a little more directly than through official channels.” [I send.]

“Curse it ‘MT’ why did I not think about that. I assumed all along that this action targeted the authorities in a general way through people like Crystal and Damascus. I never imagined it might be an operation specifically targeted at Damascus as an individual person. Please inform Rage of this interesting possibility.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Why ask me to do that?” [I send.]

“You two obviously need to get to know each other a little better.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Wonderful!” [I send.]



[Location: Secure Command Core, MTC Headquarters, Green Orb Alpha, Core Alliance Space, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 06:00.][Date 12.02.04SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 12.02.01.]

“I do not understand this lack of intelligence Acolyte. Have you truly found nothing in that nebula at all?” [Harbinger sends.]

“Nothing Father and so far the Mercenary Navy have found nothing either. We expected a cunning trap and I imagine so did the Conglomerate nonetheless they eventually felt compelled to move in and assault the region in force. So far all they have managed to do is blow up an awful lot of asteroids. I guess they were worried something nasty might be hidden inside them.” [The MTC member of Harbinger’s Observer Corp admitted via his sending.]

“What are they doing now?” [Harbinger sends.]

“Still searching and making debris it is a big nebula. I would guess either the Admiral involved or their Sleeper commanders have refused to accept the harsh truth.” [The Acolyte sends.]

“Which would be?” [Harbinger sends.]

“That they have been induced to do an expensive time wasting operation here to no purpose whatsoever probably to the Splinters great amusement.” [The Acolyte sends.]

“Being there have you any idea about what else could be behind all this hokum?” [Harbinger sends.]

“I hardly feel qualified to comment Father. I am principally trained to tactically observe and relay - I do not as a rule analyse the data I collect myself - I just forward my observations on to sharper more able minds.” [The Acolyte sends.]

“Do not sell yourself short; I am interested in your opinion.” [Harbinger sends.]

“It could be so many things Father: a distraction to tie up part of their fleet, an attempt to see how easily the Sleepers can be provoked into reaction, a ploy to make them seem foolish to their own populace to expose their weakness - their pride - even I suppose some kind of Splinter joke among their alliance?” [The Acolyte sends.]

“Thank you, please keep the area under observation and inform me if there are any significant developments.” [Harbinger sends signing out.]

“I suppose if nothing else this sequence of events may make the Conglomerate think twice before rashly acting on future intelligence about the Splinter.” [I send.]

“The unknown factor will put them on edge they will wonder did they miss something in there. Maybe we are missing something ourselves.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I would initially have been inclined to expect an attack elsewhere if it was just an exercise in distraction.” [I send.]

“Perhaps the Splinters Commander is fighting a psychological war there as much as a physical one.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Yes it would be natural to worry that part of your fleet being drawn away meant an imminently assault on assets elsewhere. Possible targets would most likely be put under the strain of being placed on high alert causing both a degree of disruption and a feeling of out of scale - to the effort required - vulnerability which would not be good for your forces overall morale.” [I send.]

“If this territorial claim is pure disinformation the Splinter are using the Conglomerates own favourite game against them. I am also worried that if this is a psychological attack then they really have decided to settle in for a long-term campaign. That bodes ill for us as it means they are planning to stay and were not just spouting rhetoric at us on that Mother ship.” [Harbinger sends.]

“That is a good point Harbinger.” [I send.]

“Since the Splinter publicly claimed that bit of Recycler Space I would also imagine the Conglomerate may now feel the need to keep a permanent presence there.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Indeed I am sure they will be desirous to dispute that illicit liberty for the sake of their populace’s morale.” [I send.]

“I could see them putting in a Garrison of some sort or a permanent or semi permanent patrol.” [Harbinger send.]

“Still for the Conglomerate all this is a lot of activity wasted on an essentially useless and unremarkable region.” [I send.]

“It is and it is not, even sophisticated manipulating tyrants like the Sleepers have to worry about the overall mass of public opinion to some degree. From past form it would be just like the lying Conglomerate to claim they had a stunning victory here when in fact they encountered no resistance at all.” [Harbinger sends.]

“However Harbinger whatever isolated unit they decide to leave behind for show will make an ideal later target for a Splinter raid.” [I send.]

“Interesting ‘MT’ that could be the most cunning part of the Splinter’s ploy. A later successful raid against a Garrison or patrol would give the appearance that the Splinter did control this part of Conglomerate Recycler Space after all. At the very least such an attack would undermine the view that the Conglomerate can fully secure its own territory even such an unimportant nebula.” [Harbinger sends.]

“It certainly would leave the mighty Mercenary Navy chasing shadows.” [I send.]

“Typical guerrilla war tactics.” [Harbinger sends.]

“So far the Splinter can hardly lose even if the Mercenary Navy decides to fully secure the region they are defeating themselves by tying up vital resources needed elsewhere.” [I send.]

“Whilst if they ignore the provocation by avoiding that region altogether then they are handing over a potential safe haven to Splinter and Splinter allied forces right inside Conglomerate Recycler Space. In a way the Splinter would have created a no go zone and legitimised the truth of their claim to the territory.” [Harbinger sends.]

“That is a surprisingly subtle strategy for a thieving warrior race Harbinger.” [I send.]

“It would be a dangerously sophisticated ploy from a species with such brutal warriors at their disposal.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Unless we are giving the Splinter species far too much credit.” [I send.]

“I suppose we will find out soon enough.” [Harbinger sends.]



[Location: Secure Command Core, MTC Headquarters, Green Orb Alpha, Core Alliance Space, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 07:00.][Date 12.02.04SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 12.02.01.]

“You are not indispensable if you have to go on a short trip then go.” [Unholy stated bluntly.]

“Maybe you are the one that needs a break it sounds to me like you are starting to get - just a little bit - testy?” [Harbinger asked.]

“Perhaps a little, when you located the laboratory I thought things would start happening reasonably fast but it is so very boringly quiet out there while even inside it is hardly a hive of activity.” [Unholy moaned.]

“Yes it is almost as if this facility is on standby I think some patience is required.” [Harbinger said.]

“Ha what do you know about patience. You know I am only here because you promised if this goes well it will put a permanent end to Draakhaal now that is something to drink to.” [Unholy griped.]

“One way or another Draakhaal and his manipulations are about to come to an end.” [Harbinger promised without restraint.]

“I hope you are right and you are not just telling me what I want to hear.” [Unholy said.]

“Would I deceive you? You do need a break Unholy. I will have Boisterous relieve you for a while. Waiting can be more draining than any amount of constant activity.” [Harbinger said.]

“I am fine, by the Emissary just go; I do not require a constant minder on my shoulder you are worse than some awe struck Acolyte hovering over me like this.” [Unholy said.]

“No you are not fine and I do not want you getting carried away and instigating any of your old rash habits for full frontal charges out of frustration.” [Harbinger said.]

“What could I do - it is all Harbingers out there.” [Unholy said with a yellow glow.]

“So it is. Still I may be needed here in person.” [Harbinger replied.]

“Then do not go but please make up your mind one way or the other. All this pacing around the room back and forth and back and forth is starting to get to me.” [Unholy complained.]

“Fine I will go but you are standing down as well and Boisterous is taking over along with Fortunate.” [Harbinger said.]

“Running out of threads to substantiate?” [Unholy asked.]

“I am beginning to feel a little bit stretched if you must know.” [Harbinger admitted.]

“I need to get one of those marvellous Suits.” [Unholy said.]

“Think long and hard about that decision Unholy it has a few hidden disadvantages.” [Harbinger said.]

“Disadvantages to being many places at once - such as?” [Unholy asked.]

“For a start it is tempting to begin trying to do everything on your own.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Poor Harbinger how I feel your pain.” [Unholy replied glowing yellow.]

“Just remember Captain you have a large family all eager to serve you.” [I send.]

“I never should have let Unholy discover I was running so many Avatars.” [Harbinger sends to me.]

“What you must remember Unholy is that we Paradox are all rather individual and it seems I just happen to be good at this sort of thing. Not every Priest can operate this many Avatars at once even with a ‘Facilitator’ backing them up.” [Harbinger said.]

“Please Harbinger we both know that: No Paradox just happens to be good at anything it is designed in at a genetic level. So what makes you so special if needed I could always get enhanced via a splice?” [Unholy replied.]

“It is a family secret.” [Harbinger replied glowing yellow.]

“I am sure I could find a Paradox Geneticist who could help I would bet Panacea knows one with the necessary skills.” [Unholy said.]

“In your dreams Panacea does.” [Harbinger replied.]

“If not then old Composure would know I still have his Exogenous address.” [Unholy said triumphantly.]

[My Captain shuddered sending me an image of Unholy Avatars charging about everywhere merrily killing Stellar Draakhaal.]

“It would seem your trip has been cancelled anyway Harbinger.” [I send abruptly.]

“What do you mean by that?” [Harbinger sends to me.]

“Koordaann’s people have forwarded a message saying their Overlord’s regrets that he cannot fit in an audience with you at the moment. Apparently, he is busy handling some local crisis or some affair of state. His staff said he would let us know when a convenient slot appeared in his crammed diary but not to expect anything too soon.” [I send.]

“Are you serious? Did you explain to the ‘Altered Stellar’ that it was a matter of utmost urgency and that it concerned my - previous - visit?” [Harbinger sends.]

“I did mention all the pertinent facts without broadcasting our suspicions too openly Captain. The ‘Altered Stellar’ did not seem impressed by anything I had to say they remained stubbornly unmoved, also according to them so was Koordaann when they relayed your request. In fact they were very insistent that it would not be sensible for you to waste your time by coming to ‘Koordaann’s Reef’ - right now - actually I got the feeling they would be rather displeased even if you showed up in the general vicinity of Haemal’s Shroud.” [I send.]

“They want me to stay away? That is odd as far as I can recall we left that place in very good terms with the locals. I certainly find it hard to believe they would conspire with any of our enemies. I know Koordaann despises both the ‘Void Skimmers’ and the Conglomerate as threats to his own realms security. Why would he want us to stay away?” [Harbinger sends.]

“Flip it around Captain it seems to me that if Koordaann is not likely to be working against us then he has to be working secretly with us. He may well be following requests you made to him on your previous visit. If that is so the ‘Altered Stellar’ may not want you drawing any undue attention to their vital work.” [I send.]

“I suppose it is just possible they are delving into Draakhaal’s mind on our behalf. They are fully independent of the ‘Core Alliance’ yet the ‘Altered Stellar’ could easily cross our borders unnoticed by passing themselves off as ’Surface Dwellers’ or even ‘Free Stellar’ with at most a few minor cosmetic surgeries.” [Harbinger sends.]

“The ‘Altered Stellar’ once I got to know them always did seem pretty well informed: I always assumed they had a good network of agents beyond ‘Haemal’s Shroud’.” [I send.]

“They did open up that small Consulate here on ‘Green Orb Alpha’ for a start.” [Harbinger sends.]

“The so-called ‘AS Trade Mission’.” [I send.]

“I guess we had best stay well clear of Koordaann then - for the moment.” [Harbinger sends.]

[I noticed Unholy was staring at us.]

“Still here I thought - you at least - had places to go and other people to harass.” [Unholy said.]

“It appears my trip has been rudely cancelled by events beyond my control.” [Harbinger stated.]

“I guessed from your stillness that you were conferring with someone probably your ship as usual.” [Unholy said.]

“So I suppose all leave is off and it is back to monitoring your Avatars’ current snail like progress.” [Unholy said.]

“No Boisterous and Fortunate will arrive soon to take over for a while. We are still taking a break as I think we both need it.” [Harbinger replied.]

“Great, I would appreciate a bucket or two of the finest Trojan.” [Unholy said.]

“I was thinking along the lines of a sedate walk in a park.” [Harbinger said.]

“Maybe afterwards.” [Unholy replied.]

“I refuse to carry you again.” [Harbinger said.]

“That will not be necessary after just a couple of buckets.” [Unholy replied.]

“When is it ever just a couple?” [Harbinger asked.]

“Harbinger you really used to be a lot more fun. I have already promised Panacea not to - fully - disengage my Suit’s safeties anymore but I never said I would stop occasionally imbibing to blunt this Universes chill embrace. I do not know what all the fuss is about anyway us Paradox are easily cured of addiction by our ‘Shroud Suits’ and suffer no long term side effects from alcohol abuse unlike some more weak bodied species.” [Unholy said.]

“We can still become psychologically dependent besides drunken people can do foolish things and put not just their own lives but also the lives of others at risk.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Well my antics have always been completely harmless and whenever I drink to excess it is always in the very best of company.” [Unholy said patting Harbinger on the back.]

“It is rarely a good idea to get into the habit of surrendering your well being too fully into the hands of others even your best friend.” [Harbinger replied.]

“What will your wondrous ‘Many Truths’ think about that statement Harbinger.” [Unholy said glowing yellow.]

“Do not twist my words we both know with a ‘Living Hull’ it is different.” [Harbinger stated.]

“Anyway Harbinger I know right now you are paranoid about your personal security so as long as I am with you I am likely to be safe.” [Unholy said.]

“You might be safe from external threats but what about from humiliation in front of my security staff.” [Harbinger said.]

“I think I could hold my own against any of your families Acolytes even drunk.” [Unholy boasted.]

“That almost sounds like a dare perhaps we could adjourn to one of my Exercise Theatres.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Perhaps but only after I get my two buckets otherwise it would be too easy.” [Unholy said.]



[Location: Avatar designated Alpha Five, Trojan Spire, Trinity Harbour, Green Orb Alpha, Core Alliance Space, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 10:15.][Date 12.02.04SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 12.02.01.]

“Are you sure this is necessary Harbinger I am beginning to think you do not trust me.” [Cad said.]

“What possible reason could I have to feel that way old friend?” [Harbinger replied glowing yellow.]

[Cad just looked at the two Acolyte Marines in their well-endowed dedicated battle ‘Shroud Suits’ that flanked Elder Priest Harbinger’s Avatar at the ready guns and all.]

“I know this is a delicate time in your rather dangerous scheme so I am making an exception this once - but really Harbinger - I am sure Exogenous conferencing would serve just as well and would avoid all these dramatics.” [Cad said.]

“It is fully in your rights to command us to go this is your domain and we are your most humble guests.” [Harbinger said.]

“I would not be so rude. If you believe this precaution is necessary you can stay. I just want to make sure - you believe it is necessary.” [Cad said scratching at his hair and looking a bit shocked.]

“I do, otherwise I would leave you in peace. I want to be here, I think it might help it feels different to Exogenous besides you might need my physical assistance at any time.” [Harbinger stated.]

“I have many helpers.” [Hierophant Cad said looking at the milling Trojan on this observation deck of the Trojan Spire including a few discreetly shadowing security personnel.]

“I am sure you have but none are Paradox with my particular knowledge skills and abilities.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You are not reassuring me Harbinger.” [Cad said.]

“Reassuring you is not exactly why we are here.” [Harbinger replied.]

“So it would seem. Look there is Trend punctual as ever and still able to stare out at the stars in blissful ignorance.” [Cad said.]

[Trend turned away from one wide view port after hearing the comment.]

“I assure you I am far from ignorant about the physical composition of the Emissary Sphere even if my speciality is social relations rather than astronomical sciences.” [Trend replied.]

“You are ignorant of the perils nonetheless or you would not broadcast that wistful smile on your face every time you look out. If you had Harbinger and my experiences you would just as often gaze with straight faced trepidation at all the splendid horrors of the deep instead.” [Cad joked.]

“It would gladly trade my easy demeanour to go venturing on a ‘Living Hull’ for a while.” [Trend said.]

“When this is over I can arrange that for you if you like. Such activities have their compensations and I often still glow when I look out Cad and so do you in your own way.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Do I interfere with your family? Listen Hierophant Trend do you not think we get more than enough excitement here without dreaming about going looking for more. Do you have these issues with your Acolytes? I didn‘t make you to go gallivanting all over the Universe.” [Cad said.]

“It is alright for you Father in your high tower looking down upon all your many projects you have not been grubbing in the mire.” [Trend complained.]

“So it was a hard day’s negotiation with the ‘Stellar Court’.” [Cad said.]

“You have no idea. I am not sure your plan is going to work Harbinger not without somebody to enforce a degree of discipline over that disjointed rabble of cultural barbarians fascinating as they are they are hard work.” [Trend said.]

“Best not discuss this openly here in a common area.” [Harbinger sends to Trend.]

“Sorry, being at home and all that. The ‘Stellar Court’ are just so cursed mutually antagonistic whenever you manage to please one member it always annoys several others. It is just one row after another.” [Trend sends.]

“I think Draakhaal liked to keep them at each others throats and old habits die hard.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I believe that was one of his less subtle tactics for controlling what he made.” [Trend agreed.]

“Eventually a faction or an individual should manage to gain dominance over the wider membership of the Court bringing a degree of - forced - consensus to their table.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I used to believe that as well now I am not so sure. I am beginning to almost miss our old friend Draakhaal.” [Trend sends.]

“Please we haven’t even managed to fully remove him yet.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I hope you know what you are doing with that one.” [Trend sends.]

“I am getting tired of hearing that nobody has any faith anymore. Have they at least agreed to our overall scheme?” [Harbinger sends.]

“Not exactly they are reluctantly in favour of parts of the plan - such as greater legitimate access to ‘Free Stellar Space’ - that excites them but some of your stipulations have them biting down hard upon their own or others carapaces.” [Trend sends.]

“They are such ugly brutes it is hard to imagine they were ever once Swimmers.” [Cad said.]

“You know about the attritions some of the members of the Court have been vanquished and replaced since your meeting Harbinger.” [Trend said.]

“I know we could easily lose any support altogether. Nonetheless I am glad they are not all happy if they liked my demands too much I would be worried I was making some terrible mistakes.” [Harbinger sends.]

“They are staunchly refusing to get rid of their puppet Draakhaal. I think they fear without him as a rallying symbol they would risk losing there entire species unity. I think many of them believe you are subtly trying to destroy their cohesion. They do not trust you Harbinger and they like you even less.” [Trend sends.]

“That is why I asked you to do the negotiations. I expected a great deal of resistance to many aspects of my plan. Never mind anything else it is not easy to cut loose from your maker and stand up tall on your own.” [Harbinger sends.]

“So have you considered a way around this difficulty?” [Cad asked.]

“I have a few ideas. Listen Trend, feel free to bend to their demand to keep their clone but ensure it is a hard won concession.” [Harbinger sends.]

“That will make the negotiations easier but Harbinger we both know keeping even a puppet Draakhaal will be a future disaster.” [Trend sends.]

“Let me worry about that just ensure they believe they have beaten us into a forced compromise.” [Harbinger sends.]

“That should not be too difficult given my previous position.” [Trend sends.]

“What I must have as soon as possible - is their open full cooperation with the Fringe Peace Negotiations but for the love of the Emissary do not let them realise that.” [Harbinger sends.]

“It seems there is a lot about your plans that you are not telling us.” [Trend sends.]

“You think so.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You are just going to be a politician - part time - Harbinger I am ever so glad.” [Cad sends.]

“I would not want the ‘Core Alliance’ to get too dependent on me.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Still got an itch to run away to the stars once again old friend?” [Cad sends.]

“After I have done my duty I am sure a cruise or two would not be too extravagant as a reward.” [Harbinger sends.]

“The mighty chains of Companion-ship it seems are not easily severed.” [Cad sends.]

“That must be something rather special.” [Trend sends.]

“Trust me Hierophant Trend it is.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Then stop freezing me out Captain.” [I send in private.]

“Please just accept right now I need a little privacy to operate freely and let it go.” [Harbinger sends.]

[Snowship]

Nice chapter there Paranoid66

any reason why the topic title says chapter 12 when it's only up to 11
(Makes it easier for nect chapter though )


Keep em coming

[Paranoid66]

Glad you liked it Snowship.

Why Chapter Eleven is billed as Twelve I overran size wise so I added the end of Eleven to the start of Twelve.

As a result I was working on Chapter Twelve when I posted Chapter Eleven and got all confused.

Not the only mistake I have made lately in Eleven I have to fix the use of 'Black Son' instead of 'Dark Son'. Do not like 'Black Son' as it sounds racist.

[Paranoid66]

[[TWELVE]] [[Part One]]


[We warped over from a shuttle pod minus Acolyte attendees, immediately met by two Recycler guards they escorted us to a cabin for our scheduled meeting.]

[Location: Shroud Suit designated as Avatar Alpha Three, Hazardous Waste Disposal Transport RWD1055GOA-CA, High Orbit Green Orb Alpha, Core Alliance Space, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time 10:22.][Date 12.02.04SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 12.02.01.]

[The first thing I noticed was the five ‘Free Recycler’ warriors. Psychologically their bulk dominated and seemed to cramp the available space. The first thing they saw was my Captain’s Avatar flickering with mirthful yellow light - a bad sign for them.]

[I could sense this thread of my Captain’s consciousness was in the mood to play.]

“Savages like this - never disappoint - but I feel the overall effect is often ruined when they try this hard.” [My Captain sends to me.]

“Savages Captain why do you name them that?” [I send.]

“I hear these fools have become nothing but fighters they now live simply to make war no other motivation matters to them.” [Harbinger sends.]

[Wearing only their hard shell cybernetics modified to act as permanent battledress the resistance fighters boasted a remarkable excess of weaponry.]

[In the Leaders case it looked like she was a walking small arms depot (if she could walk much at all under the extra loading).The guards outside had not been encumbered in this nonsensical manner but had still looked evil enough.]

[Our five hosts stood like bristling statues with spines made of muzzles, butts and magazines. Given their condition, I assumed sitting would be almost impossible even if the room had retained any furniture. Of course, Paradox in their ‘Shroud Suits’ rarely ever sat so we felt quite at home going native.]

[The spectacle though barbarous nonetheless ably demonstrated these creatures basic unsophisticated subculture as just delineated to me. Here I supposed victories were wealth and spoils trophies of status everything else was surplus to requirements. The single mindedness of the concept alarmed me.]

[The wider scene was one of depressing squalor that before Harbinger’s explanation would have baffled me and in a way still did. To me martial endeavours and efficient cleanliness went together without exception. I wondered what had happened to the spirit of these warriors. Why would anyone choose to live like this?]



“Welcome aboard RWD1055GOA-CA Paradox. I understand you wish to speak with us and paid a reasonable gratuity for this high privilege.” [The Leading Recycler said.]

[Received, translated and shortened her name became Malachite. Her speech issued from suit speakers. Interestingly her head fully enclosed in shimmering green armour plates lacked any bifurcation that might accommodate a working mouth.]

[I knew many other members of her species were cunningly armoured in a manner that permitted them to make an enhanced bite with an extra long protruding hydraulic jaw incorporating metal teeth but not Malachite.]

[At first I wondered why this Recycler did without that common affectation but supposed it hardly mattered. Recyclers I reasoned would have as many individual quirks as any lone sentient belonging to a wider species.]

[Mostly I was still puzzling over the broader communication they were sending us by using these surroundings for our first encounter. Why pick a Refuse Ship as a cover why bring us here and show us this seedy place?]

[Was it possible that their apathy to their environment retained a deliberate statement aimed at us an inverted snobbery did they see routine domestic chores as beneath them? Could they be prideful of their filthy degradation?]

[Why did they feel no shame? These questions kept cycling around my minds they bothered me. Were they telling us that nothing was beneath them anymore: that they had chosen to enter the pit and to live there? Was the subliminal message here that they were capable and willing of any atrocity to gain victory? Then I wondered if deep down it was possible that these creatures had simply lost all measure of self worth and this grime was a facade of despair and they simply did not care how we perceived them.]

[Constant war does terrible things to people one paradox of the process being the uncomfortable irony that its perpetrators can also be victims. What is war after all if not organised violence and what is organised violence if not an outbreak of social insanity. Looking at them now, I could easily imagine these creatures suffered a contagion the disease of war’s irrationality. Since at times even my Captain and I had contacted that fever, I knew the symptoms of that pathogen well enough.]

[My Captain took his time. I wondered was he also reconsidering this scene or was he looking at Malachite’s greeting for hidden meanings before choosing to speak.]

“I was quite happy to pass on a little donation to your cause - really it was nothing.” [He replied flippantly setting the mood for what was to follow.]

[In Fact, Harbingers ‘Many Truths Corporation’ had often secretly donated credits to the ‘Free Recycler’ resistance movement in the past. However as the war progressed and the cause became hopeless we had fewer reasons to bolster what was clearly a lost cause.]

[The five cybernetic reptiles stared at us through protruding visual implants most of which spun into focus in such an amusingly antiquated - mechanical - fashion that they almost made my Captain’s mirth seem reasonable.]

[Why the Recyclers refused to adapt and implement full cellular biomechanical sciences was another thing beyond my comprehension. The way I saw it: Culture could lift you up inspiring you to new heights of achievement or it could pull you down like a black hole crushing your individual creative spirit with nonsensical social restrictions and taboos based on primitive ideas best forgot. With the Recyclers it often seemed to me that despite escaping the X Universe they could not flee the grip of their past.]

[As Harbinger painted them with his yellow light, I noticed their natural move forward to embrace us suddenly fell short. The barb of Harbinger’s too easy scorn had clearly found some weak yielding flesh beneath those hard suits and stuck fast.]

“How exactly do you expect to profit by this meeting?” [The Leader said all friendliness dropping away from her synthesised voice, which now contrived to sound both bitter and cruel to my discerning perception.]

[Harbinger flared yellow in response.]

[Boldly he commenced to inspect the heavy infantry members with a flowing Tri-optic as if they were on a parade for his benefit. Our senor as it snaked around made their optical implants look like children’s toys. Our ‘Shroud Suit’ glowed brighter still as we took each of the fives measure in turn.]

[I was sure the Recyclers were fuming at my Captain’s open contempt for their proud martial display luckily that was the whole point.]

[Ripper had warned us earlier that these Recyclers tended to toy with their visitor’s emotions to get a better deal. I wondered could the rooms filth be a psychological weapon since the Paradox were known to be fastidious or was I giving them too much credit.]

[One thing was certain my Captain had decided to get his own blows in early at the start of the game. I settled in to watch his attempt at manipulation via initially enraging, then keeping them off balance. In many ways, because of past deals with the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ Harbinger’s adopted approach felt too familiar.]

[The ‘Free Recyclers’ shifted about a bit under our gaze either to better balance their loads or still vainly striving to display their weaponry to the fullest effect.]

[Their ceaseless display in the face of our amusement reminded me of the way some of Hierophant Cad’s avian pets known as peacocks insisted in elevating their plumage to get the attention of occasionally uncaring would be mates. Was it possible they feared all those guns could possibly have gone unnoticed by us?]

[Perhaps they could not easily break from habitual customs. On the surface, it looked like everything we heard about this group was true. It was beginning to look like they had cultivated a deliberate degree of anarchic savagery. I imagined I could smell their insanity their too easy brutality. If in its twisted way the Conglomerate was the ultimate imposition of order and control then perhaps these Recyclers decided to embrace a chaotic approach to resistance. So why I wondered was Harbinger here I hoped not to learn how to become more extreme in his habits.]

[Out of a habit of my own, I commenced cataloguing their weaponry. I belatedly realised unlike everything else where it mattered the Recyclers’ fighting gear was actually spotlessly clean. I also had to admit they retained a few choice pieces among the dross. Items like the latest micro missile launchers, rare starburst shockwave mortars and plasma star flamers. Malachite however topped his subordinates equipment with what was - I hoped - a decommissioned (otherwise illegal) copy of a ‘Trojan Turmoil’ circa molecular disruption beam lancer.]

[The lancer when working properly was quite capable of cutting through just about any material with ridiculous ease. Due to its prowess, the MD-BL had become infamous for friendly fire kills against civilians after passing right through its intended target be it a person a piece of equipment or even a structure. Where that particular trophy had come from the Emissary alone knew but it must have been a nasty scrap if the lancer had seen any usage before capture.]

[I was sure our hosts were greatly disappointed that we did not ask about their trophies: the rarity of the beam lancer in particular. The normal form would be to emit great praise and endeavour to illicit tales of martial prowess from such - mighty - warriors allowing an opening for considerable boasting and camaraderie. In a way, I was sorry that was not Harbingers chosen approach. Still the standard methodology was a snare when dealing with these crazed fanatics - at least - that was the tale that Ripper told us.]

[So far, Harbinger’s plan seemed to be working, the Recyclers certainly appeared unsure about how best to respond to my Captain’s puzzling Paradox laughter and quiet manner. If we had lesser diplomatic credentials we would likely be in serious trouble already. Nonetheless, these veterans had clearly anticipated their due shock, awe and respect or if nothing else a degree of fawning pretence from us as visitors from outside their strange subculture not an arrogant assault on their overall dignity although it might be argued they had done that to themselves already.]

“According to scripture before our heresy we used to be a lot like this: All preening self importance though of course not so dirty. We left the worst of the beliefs in our superiority behind on the other side of the pilgrimage - we - learned better after meeting the Emissary.” [Harbinger sends to me.]

“We did?” [I send a little amused at the idea - not for the first time either.]

[Harbinger had told me such fictions before. Recently I had decided the Paradox species was still as proud and arrogant as it had ever been only now in - comparatively speaking - less obvious and antagonistic ways.]

[In fact, I had recently concluded that at some point most members of every known species tended to think they were the ultimate height of forced or natural evolution even it pained me to admit my ‘Living Hulls’.]

“Seen enough? Speak up Paradox Priest what do you want?” [Malachite demanded clearly unimpressed with my Captain’s lofty attitude and inappropriately jolly demeanour.]

[Harbinger ignored the demand refusing to utter a single word straight away. In negotiations, my Captain had come to appreciate that silence could be as good a weapon as any number of words. Harbinger had learned this lesson the hard way when others reticence had tested his own natural impatience to its breaking point.]

[Instead of responding, Harbinger began looking all about the room investigating every nook and cranny with his Tri-optics first. The scene was awash with litter. Dusty, dirty and smelly mechanical junk lay strewn all around alongside other more organic looking detritus that I refused to analyse. I found the whole picture distasteful and painful to behold. Nonetheless, these particular Recyclers seemed right at home. I could sense the dirt for Harbinger was as off putting as it remained for me.]

“I used to think Cad was scruffy and untidy but this beggar’s belief.” [Harbinger sends to me.]

[Despite his distaste Harbinger continued to shine in the Recyclers faces like a living sun casting an out of place benevolence upon an already over exposed - if anything blighted - crop that would have been best kept hidden in the dark. In one corner, I noticed something creepy moving along on many limbs and realised the room also suffered from an infestation.]

[The Reptiles fidgeted some more I wondered unkindly if they had parasites. I was sure their discomfort had nothing to do with the embarrassment they should feel at the state of their quarters.]

[Although covered in hard shells they were pretty awful at hiding their emotions for example, the way they turned to one another clearly indicated hasty person-to-person closed communications, while their stance and how they moved screamed out a highly agitated state.]

[I reckoned they were zipping compressed data blasts back and forth stating exactly what they thought of my Captain and arguing about what they could get away with doing to him: How best to repay his rudeness and refusal to play by their rules of engagement so to speak.]

[Finally, to my relief Harbinger decided the Recyclers had suffered long enough or maybe he also was becoming bored whatever his reason he spoke up interrupting our hosts’ semi covert debates.]

“I am a firm believer that some things cannot be bought simply because they are - so valuable - that they are priceless; therefore they can only be given away.” [Harbinger said in his best rumbling sonorous preacher’s voice as if giving a sermon from a podium to Acolytes he had just incarnated.]

[I expected immediate derision but all we got was silence. The Recycler’s outward restraint impressed me. When their full focus finally returned to my Captain, and they did not rage and fume, I feared the worst that they had seen through the whole ploy making it redundant.]

“What nonsense is this?” [Malachite said sounding more puzzled than angry.]

[Well a little confusion at the idea of blessed charity never mind my Captain’s unusually whimsical approach might be forgivable from any normal Recycler never mind these odd creatures.]

“Would - bequeathed - be a better word given your current plight?” [Harbinger asked.]

[At this point, three of five Armour encased right arms came to rest on specific and rather well worn weapons; every one without question an exceptional item not just used for show. I considered reaching for their weapons was the Recyclers first big mistake.]

“What are you trying to infer Priest? That could not possibly have been a stupid threat could it?” [Malachite asked contriving to make Harbinger’s label sound like a gross insult. The slur had little effect having dealt so much with ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ that particular slight was one we had become immune to.]

[Now the Recyclers no doubt expected to take control of the bargaining however; Harbinger refused to be cowered by their unspoken threats of violence proving it by glowing fractionally brighter.]

[The deepening chill of potentially imminent hostility slid off my Captain like water off an amphibian Surface Dweller Swimmer emerging from a leisure pool: Confirmation of my theory that the Paradox species was still more than arrogant enough.]

“Please be careful they are balanced on a knife’s edge.” [I privately warned my Captain.]

[The Recyclers had proved more tolerant than I had imagined and I feared now might react in a far sterner way than we had expected should their self-control falter. I watched them all closely.]

“No worries old friend, remember if they draw and fire they will just blow holes in this Avatar which is easily replaced with another.” [Harbinger sends to me.]

“The suit may be easily replaced but what about these Recyclers if our ‘Shroud Suit’ explodes? Do you want them to shoot us and kill themselves?” [I send.]

[Just in case I checked the Suit’s feedback system thinking this thread might be just a little high on something Suit derived. Of course, everything was as it should be. That made me wonder would my Captain have dared to push them this hard if his body was truly here. If the Suit did blow up, I imagined it could easily take this small ship with it including all hands onboard.]

“I find it is best to speak plainly. First I must say it is pretty silly to consider pulling a gun unless you actually fully plan to use it - it just makes you look weak and indecisive when you do not.” [Harbinger lectured.]

“Do you have a death wish?” [Malachite asked.]

[I guessed the Recyclers did not know we were a mere Avatar.]

“Do you? Trust me you would not survive killing me this Suit would see to that.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Are you sure of that?” [Malachite replied.]

“You ‘Free Recyclers’ have lost your war. Very soon if you refuse to admit this and keep on fighting you will all be dead or if you are lucky just converted into Conglomerate foot soldiers - which would be a shame - either way all this… all your old booty, profits and reputation will hardly matter anymore.” [Harbinger said.]

[That managed to bring the other two Recycler’s claws to their weapons proving they had failed to comprehend my Captain’s earlier point about making threats with arms.]

“You know nothing Priest this is not a spaceport dive to trade insults in and start a friendly brawl. If you think we will kindly wrestle with you, you are mistaken. Nor are we afraid to die.” [Spat out Malachite’s speakers angrily but she moved her hand away from her weapon nonetheless whilst her associates also stood down.]

[Harbinger glowed brighter still this time I sensed with genuine joy. Was he testing their flexibility and prudence?]

“I hope you Recyclers are not all show and no ability.” [Harbinger said.]

[I almost expected that comment to be too much.]

“You are right I will not shoot you, I will not permit your people to claim compensation you are not worth.” [Malachite said.]

[Harbinger gave off a little genuine speaker laughter.]

“Good you prove you are wise in realising there is no profit in fighting me. I just might be able to help prevent your people’s ill fate after all. In return for my help however like I said I need something special, something priceless that few can supply but you must give me willingly.” [Harbinger stated.]

“You have a strange way with diplomacy and bargaining Paradox Priest is something wrong with your head?” [Malachite asked.]

“My head now that is funny.” [Harbinger retorted.]

[The other Recyclers glared at us with poorly concealed malice.]

“Is it mad provoking and speaking to us like this?” [One of the armoured Reptiles further to the back finally asked.]

“At first I did not know if it was buying or selling, now I think idiotically it is trying to bully us into of all things an act of charity.” [Another Reptile questioned aloud.]

“I think the Priest wishes to barter with promises alone, shall I shoot it and dump it into space or will you explain to it this is not our way.” [A third Recycler hissed out.]

“You make no sense Priest. You speak of helping in vague and unspecified ways then mention gifts. My colleague is right you are insane if you expect us to just hand something priceless over to you in a poor trade or for free - no matter what it happens to be? You are lucky I am in a good mood today or you would be spinning about out there already in several pieces.” [Malachite stated.]

“In such a scenario I would not be alone besides jettisoning cargo this close to ‘Green Orb Alpha’ is illegal.” [Harbinger replied.]

[That actually caused Malachite to laugh.]

“This one is trouble ‘Shroud Suits’ harbour potent explosives best just tell it to go away since it insists on wasting our time.” [The subordinate that first questioned our sanity interjected.]

“No it is beginning to amuse me, besides it paid to talk and I would know why it dares to make so bold with us.” [Malachite said.]

“I am not so sure that is a good idea.” [Another replied.]

“That is why you are not the leader.” [Malachite retorted.]

“I think it has something worth trading but is wisely frugal and is pretending it cannot afford our services.” [Malachite said.]

“I suppose that is possible.” [A subordinate replied.]

“Such play acting will do it no good I know it owns a large corporation with a great many weapon manufactories.” [Malachite said.]

“Indeed it does.” [One of the unnamed Recyclers added greedily.]

“Ah that explains their tolerance they have their eyes on the prize.” [I privately send.]

“Even if it is fabulously wealthy it is still space happy and ill mannered. If we accept abuse from this one, others will seek to treat us the same way. We are due a measure of courtesy.” [The most impatient of the subordinates insisted.]

“Others will find I only make exceptions with good reason this one will also pay for its slights.” [Malachite said.]

[Harbinger silent through the whole exchange continued to glow yellow despite their vehemence - it was all show - we knew anything they said aloud was purely for our benefit alone.]

[Associates of associates of ours had made deals with this group before they told us ‘backing down to this faction is never a smart option’. Any deal we wished to make they said ‘must be hammered home like physical blows against a resistant shield’. Once again, my Captain only spoke when the Recyclers insisted on a response.]

“Well speak up or I will consider sending you on your way and to ‘Hells Maw’ with the consequences.” [Malachite said.]

“I fear I can tell you little but be assured what I am planning with your - blind - consent will ultimately benefit your people as much if not more than my own.” [Harbinger said.]

“Is it because you are a Priest that you expect us to accept these too easy pronouncements of aid and benefits on faith alone?” [Malachite asked.]

“Ask anyone that knows me - my word is good - I can be trusted.” [Harbinger replied in a haughty and superior manner that was to my sensitivities deeply exaggerated.]

“This is not how we trade. We do not endorse your creed; your insubstantial faiths and beliefs make no sense to us.” [Malachite said.]

“I think you know my credentials well enough.” [Harbinger replied.]

“We require at the very least physical proofs of fidelity when we deal items we can touch and keep secure. From you I think we would expect double or triple the normal advanced deposit.” [Malachite stated.]

“They just love to hoard they are as bad as Hierophant Cad for collecting junk - look at this place.” [Harbinger sends to me.]

“It is a waste transport.” [I send for some reason feeling a need to excuse the Recycler’s mess maybe because they saw no harm in it and I felt embarrassed on their behalf.]

“We both know that is just its outward cover.” [Harbinger sends to me.]

“You have my promise as an Elder Paradox Priest and a Founding Father of this great ‘Core Alliance’ that you will not have any reasons whatsoever to regret working with me - at least not on this occasion.” [My Captain said pompously - in his own special way - still deliberately aggravating them perhaps beyond any need.]

“Count yourself blessed that I came here to deal specifically with you and not some rival faction.” [Harbinger said pulsing again with yellow light.]

“The Recycler Resistance groups are united in the wider struggle. You do not listen or you refuse to understand. Promises and blessings from a foreign national will not sway me and your words and actions so far have done you little credit.” [Malachite said.]

“So you are just greedy for more wealth after all - I should have guessed. I did not realise you Resistance Fighters were as mercenary as your non-martial brethren are. I was led to believe this group valued the cause more than its financial accounts.” [Harbinger stated.]

[Malachite stomped a step closer and leaned threateningly towards my Captain.]

“Priest now you truly try my patience - greed - has nothing to do with it. Always other races accuse us of greed I am bored with it. I must honour my responsibilities or be held to account for committing a disservice to my race that is all.” [Malachite said.]

“A fine excuse for credit farming.” [Harbinger accused.]

“Think what you like but I would be a poor leader if I sold advantage for empty promises or if grand sounding titles were enough to befuddle my common sense especially at such a dire time as now? Tell me you Paradox are any different and I will call you a liar.” [Malachite stated.]

“I offer you an opportunity to grow up to work for more than largess.” [Harbinger said.]

“You really do not know us; we are all Patriots here. Do not confuse us with your servants you have been dealing too long with inferior Acolytes you can bully and overawe - we are not your children - my people are born free not into slavery and servitude that is why we fight against the Conglomerate rather than submit.” [Malachite stated.]

[Harbinger stopped glowing so that suddenly the cabin seemed rather dark.]

“While I am not willing to pay for the package itself (as that would be a gross insult) I am willing to offer a remuneration for the privilege of earning your trust, your cooperation and your forgetfulness of this entire deal once it is completed.” [Harbinger said.]

“At last you say something interesting, however I do not like this unspecified term of ‘package’ or this ‘once it is completed’ to me these words still suggest you expect us to make leaps of faith.” [Malachite said.]

“Great risk and high rewards are often tied together.” [Harbinger replied.]

“We Recyclers are practical people who know the value of what we possess. It is not in our nature to gamble with blind deals or to wait upon delayed payment no matter how skilfully the bargaining is put.” [Malachite insisted.]

“I believe every rule has a profitable exception.” [Harbinger said.]

“Perhaps it is you that is obsessed with profit. If you showed more concern for our beliefs we would have come to an arrangement by now.” [Malachite suggested.]

“That is a trap if I had abided by your customs you would have considered me weak and given me little respect I know your form Malachite this is all about leverage.” [Harbinger said.]

“You think so; you think you know me so well?” [Malachite asked.]

“I know your type well enough - you would sell your immortal soul for just one more victory - consider this; if you continue to refuse to accept my good intent, you will force me to carry my trade and my friendship elsewhere.” [Harbinger said.]

“I doubt that is practical or you would not be here in the first place.” [Malachite said.]

“Do not fool yourself you are not the only ‘Free Recycler’ resistance group in need of the aid I can supply merely the closest.” [My Captain stated.]

“See Priest that is better, now that we both know something of our limitations compromise is possible.” [Malachite said.]

“I hope so.” [Harbinger replied.]

“Tell me straight exactly what you need Elder Priest and you never know I might even deign to consider your request reasonable.” [Malachite said.]

[My Captain fluttered yellow again.]

“I…” [Harbinger began.]

“First,” [Interrupted Malachite] “let me warn you: Do not be offended but I still have grave doubts that we can come to any deal.”

“Why is that?” [Harbinger asked belatedly playing along.]

“If you cannot afford to properly honour the value of the true worth of your desire - as you seem to have suggested - you will be wasting your and my time. We do not appreciate time wasters and I assure you any other Recyclers you approach will feel exactly the same way especially after we have spoken to all of them, about you.” [Malachite remarked.]

[Harbinger blazed brightly so that he fairly lit up the small cabin.]

“I think you are mistaken in my intent. This is not a straight deal as I have said already what I need - I fully accept - I cannot buy. I require a warrior, a Recycler Patriot, willing to die for - your - cause.” [Harbinger said.]

“If I have got this right you are asking for a lot in return for very little substantial.” [Malachite said.]

“If you believe that then I assure you, you have not got it right.” [Harbinger insisted.]

“The way I see it you want me to give you one of mine just so you can use her up in some damned Paradox black operation for what a simple finder’s fee and some vague promises that the operation itself will be to our future benefit. Am I right?” [Malachite asked.]

“You are correct about the finders fee part, what is wrong with that?” [Harbinger replied.]

“Do you think we have so many people left that we can afford to give them away to such as you? To say you are bold Priest is an understatement. Would you sell me your Acolytes cheaply as cannon fodder against my enemies?” [Malachite asked.]

“No because I am no slaver and besides Paradox Acolytes by nature are classed by us as unformed - immature - children it would be a gross insult if you tried to buy my children from me.” [Harbinger explained.]

“Are you saying I should slave out my own people while you would not?” [Malachite yelled.]

“I thought I had made it plain that - I am not here to buy a person - that would be dishonourable.” [Harbinger remarked.]

“Indeed Recyclers are not commodities to be bought and sold at any price.” [Malachite said.]

“I am only willing to pay for your assistance with an introduction. What I need is access to an adult: A fighter with the right predisposition both able and willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for the greater good of all your people.” [Harbinger said.]

“Priest you are no fool it seems to me that what your words conceal is a desire to make us sell without you actually having to buy. You want me to use one of my recruit’s convictions against her. You wish us to aid you in manipulating one of our patriots to do your dirty work for you. Why should I not think this a disgraceful request?” [Malachite asked.]

“I wish only to honour one of your patriots by providing her with a mission worthy of her sacrifice to both our species advantage that is why.” [Harbinger replied.]

“Always you say ‘my people will profit’ you are funny Priest. Promises and the pretty light show aside listen to yourself; do you think you know us? How can one such as you judge what is a greater good for any one of - my - hard pressed people in their greatest hour of need?” [Malachite asked.]

“Why do you insist in doubting me?” [Harbinger said.]

“Perhaps if this request was not blind I might consider it, but to expect us to trust you with one of our own - when you so clearly have no plan to trust us - is too much. This interview is over.” [Malachite said.]

[The hatch opened and two guards stomped in.]

“Show this, this guest out.” [Malachite said.]

“I am going nowhere.” [My Captain insisted coldly as the guards moved closer.]

“They will use force if they must.” [Malachite warned.]

[The guards stepped forward and grabbed us only to discover when they attempted to lift that our Suit was immovable being anchored firmly to the deck. We easily defied all their strenuous attempts; a few smashes with rifle butts had no effect either. As Recycler servos squealed in frustration, my Captain commenced talking again.]

“I know your requirements well enough and of your noble travails. Operationally the less people know about some missions the better it is - as a great leader you must be able to appreciate that.” [Harbinger said.]

[Malachite looked sternly at his almost comically struggling guards who let go and took one step back no doubt under silent direction.]

“Outside fools.” [Malachite yelled at his troopers.]

[The guards obeyed fleeing the scene of their incompetence.]

“You listen to me Paradox if I summon them again and you continue to resist we will see how well that fancy suit of yours holds out against well directed weapon’s fire.” [Malachite promised.]

“Luckily for you I did not come here to fight.” [Harbinger replied.]

“Then you should show a little appreciation for our pain. We have suffered because of your precious ‘Core Alliance’. It was the founding of your cursed ‘Sea Sphere’ exploitative union of species and your evil Accords that politically helped to sell out my people to the Sleepers we all know this to be true.” [Malachite spouted.]

“That is…” [My Captain began.]

“Your people’s actions gave the Sleepers licence to destroy - my - nation. Now you dare to beg me for great favours as if you ask for a mere scrap from an abundant table while we - despite the necessity of pretence to retain our dignity - are starving for equipment and supplies. You and Hierophant Cad and the ‘Stellar Orb’ started all this it is your fault.” [Malachite interrupted angrily.]

“That is not true: Many of your people submitted willingly to dominion by the Sleepers, very much for there own reasons, long before the ‘Core Alliance’ or the rediscovery of Drooshuu’s folly. I also know some of your own have managed to profit from the Fringe War conflict despite your heavy losses.” [Harbinger said.]

“Not us we did our duty and do it still can you not see our hard won honours all about us are you blind as well as insensitive.” [Malachite insisted.]

“I respect your many victories but I disagree with your political assessment of the ‘Core Alliance’. We all do what we must for the greater good and sometimes what we must do is distasteful and unpleasant - like this vessel - that is what makes us leaders. However, if it makes you happy I believe the ultimate product of my mission here will amount to more than adequate reparations. Just do not expect me to accept your wrongly perceived accusations as fact.” [Harbinger said still stubbornly glowing yellow.]

“Your beliefs are not mine. I believe you trade rudeness dressed up as cultural differences and you are the one who refuses to trust. It still looks like there can be no deal here.” [Malachite said.]

“Do not make a rash decision you will regret. I will not be the judge of the worthiness of the mission the Patriot you send to me will be. The potential volunteer alone will know the benefits of her actions as a motivation - under her own violation - to accept the cruel choices that will be required. Does that satisfy you that my intent is fully honourable? If she disagrees, she can walk away but I know she will not - that is how much I respect your people’s commitment and tenacious nature when roused. Trust me, if there was any other way I would take it. We Paradox prefer to wield our own weapons.” [Harbinger replied.]

“So it is wicked chance that brings us together and perhaps common foes. Still what you seek is a Recycler - martyr - a priceless commodity not easily delivered.” [Malachite said.]

“As I said we are Leaders because we can make the hard not the easy choices.” [Harbinger replied.]

“Every veteran is priceless to me the few still stoutly ideological - even more so - in these cruel times belief in anything other than pure survival among my people comes at a premium. Those who hold true are my only treasure the choicest items in an ever diminishing hoard of once prodigious wealth.” [Malachite said.]

“I understand they are as family to you. It is true I do seek an introduction to one easily named by the honorific of Martyr but you must understand never publicly. To the rest of the Universe it must be as if she never was. Why do you think I praise your citizen by saying she is priceless it is not a mere ploy to avoid payment. We Paradox believe all life is precious but as a warrior who has led others into the fire and out again I appreciate the added value of the stout of heart and firm of conviction.” [Harbinger stated.]

“Still to die and not be honoured only makes it worse. I see you are not the thief I took you for but this is a most unusual proposition. Given the rarity of what you require I must exact a high price even for my simple cooperation. I cannot devalue a Patriots life before my subordinates. I trust you can understand that such a requirement is not avarice I cannot give up my own cheaply.” [Malachite said whilst taking up a remarkably expectant posture given her hard composite material outer shell.]

“So was all this dressing up of the deal just a means to salve this mercenary captain’s conscience so she can legitimately sell us one of her people and maximise her return?” [I send shocked.]

“Perhaps or perhaps you fail to understand their deeper nature.” [Harbinger sends.]

“To honour your soldier I offer enough credits to buy your desperate cause a lot of needed armaments or if you prefer this larger still supply of weapons direct from my factories.” [Harbinger replied handing over a computer pad with a long list of items.]

“This lot may not be enough for this service.” [Malachite remarked barely glancing at the screen.]

[The haggling began in earnest.]

[Later when we had warped back to the shuttle pod, I could not resist questioning my Captain about this outrageous deal for the life of another sentient being.]

“In my opinion that Malachite Recycler just made a lie of her statement that the ‘Free Recyclers’ are not for sale. I do not like the nature of this bargain what is this all about Harbinger?” [I send perturbed at the whole transaction.]

“Explanations regarding this are on a need to know basis.” [Harbinger sends to me.]

[I felt aggrieved that my Captain believed I did not need to know. How could he keep the truth from me? I wondered just how the damned ‘Facilitator’ was editing out my Captains thoughts and feelings so smoothly. At times, I could sense nothing at all via my once wondrously comprehensive Companion-ship empathy.]

[I wondered would it help if I ran some diagnostics or would the results just depress me. I concluded the ‘Facilitator’ had to be employing other external resources. That ‘Shroud Suit’ was all about making connections no doubt it used ‘Exogenous’ links to a network of Computer Cores as I occasionally joined to external units to bolster my own physical resources. Who knows what possibly even Tier Nine Paradox assets Harbinger’s ‘Facilitator’ was secretly able to call upon to facilitate its dirty business.]

[I confess that I found I was thinking of that ‘Shroud Suit’ as an opponent holding my Captains’ thoughts hostage rather than an ally. How fully it had deceived me when I first pronounced it safe.]



[Location: Shroud Suit designated as Avatar Beta One’, Terra Nova hotel, Vantage Four Hyper-city, Icarus Domains, Sanctuary Orb, Dark Coordinate, Tier II Space, Inner Systems, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 10:55.][Date 12.02.04SA (Second Accord) 9th PA 12.02.01.]

“My normal underworld contacts here have discovered nothing of worth but I still have some vital information. I had a truly horrendous time getting it as well. It was not easy finding a suitably flexible - honest - person in these circles. To tell you the truth I have no idea what to make of some of the data I have uncovered.” [Rage sends to my Captain.]

“Enough preamble Rage spit it out.” [Harbinger sends.]

“This news comes from an official source but has not and probably will not be released to the public anytime soon. The ‘Dark Son’ are in negotiations with ‘Orb Guidance’ via a body known as the ‘Social Advancement and Reform Committee’ or SARC for short. SARC is a scary ‘Omerta’ institution that functions as a trouble-shooter when things go horribly wrong. It is known to have two faces one open and friendly one closed that trust me even you do not want to cross.” [Rage stated.]

“Continue.” [Harbinger sends.]

“The ‘Dark Son’ demands are simple enough they want a large sum in local credits it is the other information that is troubling.” [Rage sends.]

“Go on.” [Harbinger sends.]

“They say Crystal is dead that she was killed by you along with a short list of other hostages and a few of their colleagues when you rashly set off an ‘AM’ explosion within the Hotel on level Eleven.” [Rage sends.]

[A moment of silence followed that pronouncement.]

“Is that true Harbinger?” [Rage sends.]

“I find that incredible.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You do?” [Rage sends.]

“The condemnation is a clever ruse in its own way but highly unlikely.” [Harbinger sends.]

“However, it is not entirely impossible either is it? She might have been moved to the Eleventh Floor we did not clear that level room by room.” [I privately send to my Captain.]

“It would be an awfully big coincidence why would they set a trap for us on the same floor they had moved their principle hostage to.” [Harbinger sends back to me.]

“I do not know maybe she was being used as bait. Maybe they believed we had some way to locate her position.” [I privately send.]

“Did or did you not set off an ‘AM’ explosion in there?” [Rage sends.]

“I did but it was a dampened micro-munitions warhead a controlled event.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Controlled ‘AM’ in a confined space could there have been collateral damage?” [Rage sends.]

“Anything is possible but I really doubt that Crystal was there given the wider circumstances.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Doubt - damn it Harbinger - so you are not certain that is not good, not good at all. Did I not emphasise how dangerous these ‘Omerta’ can be if you dare to cross them. One thing is clear your use of ‘AM’ has caused a riot at this end. Damascus went to pieces when he was informed his daughter was killed and some people despite your connections are calling for your Avatars head on a platter and the prosecution of criminal charges.” [Rage sends.]

“Where is he now?” [Harbinger sends evenly.]

“Where is who?” [Rage sends sounding a bit flustered.]

“Calm down, where is Damascus?” [Harbinger sends.]

“He was escorted home. I do not think the locals know what to do about you now. I am sure they would like some kind of confirmation of the ‘Dark Son’ story before reacting to it but if ‘AM’ was used and if Crystal was in the blast radius little evidence would be left to confirm the kill.” [Rage sends.]

“I simply do not believe it.” [Harbinger sends]

“You can not believe you murdered Crystal or you do not want to believe?” [I send in reply.]

[Harbinger belatedly tried to connect to Crystal but got no response.]

“Despite fearing she might have betrayed us we should have risked speaking to her earlier.” [I send.]

“What is done is history and we had good reason to be suspicious at the time. Remember we still do not know who betrayed us.” [Harbinger sends to me.]

“I knew we should not have landed on this ‘Stellar Orb’.” [I send.]

“Accusations are not always the truth Rage. The Trojan in authority will know this do not let this bother you. Now tell me what else you have discovered.” [Harbinger sends.]

“It is all well and good for you Harbinger you are just an Avatar I am here in person.” [Rage sends.]

“Trust me everything will work itself out if we do not panic.” [Harbinger sends.]

“If things get too hot Harbinger I will have no choice but to try to distance myself from you.” [Rage sends.]

“I can appreciate that but if you abandon me prematurely - I will consider it desertion in the face of the enemy. I hope you understand the likely consequences of that action.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I understand.” [Rage sends.]

“Good, now speak to me.” [Harbinger sends.]

“The information I have includes the fact that the ‘Dark Son’ claim they have released a deadly viral on several cleared but unspecified floors. They say they will propagate the agent into inhabited levels if any breach occurs to the Hotels outer perimeter.” [Rage sends.]

“I am sure that is a lie as well.” [Harbinger sends.]

“They also claim to be rather vexed with you Harbinger and refuse to negotiate your release. The ‘Dark Son’ say they have other plans for the alien Beast they did not seem to know you are just an Avatar and no one has told them either.” [Rage sends.]

“Have you found out anything - off the record - about this terrorist organisation?” [Harbinger sends.]

“Not really, I managed to obtain some dossiers on a few past operatives who were captured and have been - reformed - plus their known past associates. I did manage to speak to one ex member unfortunately; due to various restrictions placed on me, everything takes an age. I had to do a lot of sneaking around and it was a total waste of my time. The character I spoke with knew nothing helpful at all.” [Rage sends.]

“I see, do you think the authorities are aware of your investigations?” [Harbinger sends.]

“I have striven to keep my actions as covert as possible. Now I am at a loss there is a paucity of information about any still active members beyond fictitious names and the propaganda they project about themselves which is worthless.” [Rage sends.]

“Sometimes there is truth within the rhetoric send me copies of that data as well.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You have to understand Harbinger the authorities here are strident against groups like this. The working leadership of organisations like the ‘Dark Son’ is fully professional they know how to stay well hidden. They use idealistic young recruits in cells but generally stay clear of the action no one knows their true identity. The only real clue I have is that they are perhaps a little too good that leads me to believe they may have compromised the ‘Omerta’ authority’s security forces to some extent. Have you any other ideas about how I might proceed given these facts?” [Rage sends.]

“I would advise you watch Damascus closely. I am betting Crystal is still alive and they want to use her father in some way. I find it hard to believe this is just about currency are the ‘Dark Sons’ normally this boldly mercenary?” [Harbinger sends.]

“They certainly undertake a variety of criminal activity to raise funds for their cause: kidnapping, extortion even theft and murder is nothing new to them although they usually only snatch individuals.” [Rage sends.]

“So something here was worth a change in tactics. It surprises me that an outlawed criminal group could managed to mobilise so much force so quickly.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I agree they must be a very large operation or be using hired help or allies to bolster their numbers.” [Rage sends.]

“Maybe you should extend your investigation to include other criminal groups.” [Harbinger sends.]

“It would be better if ‘MT’ did that. I do not think you understand what a difficult proposition watching Damascus is going to be. That old ‘Omerta’ is heavily guarded and as you can imagine is subject to a lot of sympathy right now. If I or anyone I employ is seen to be harassing him in any way it could cause real trouble for all of us.” [Rage sends.]

“Be discreet then, you can do discreet Rage?” [Harbinger sends.]

“I have been doing nothing but discreet since I arrived here - I just do not want to end up in as big a mess as you are in - it is not wise to antagonise the ‘Omerta’.” [Rage sends.]

“So you keep saying - over and over again - but if we do not venture we will not gain.” [Harbinger sends.]

[Silence greeted that pronouncement.]

“Rage curse you speak to me.” [Harbinger sends.]

“One moment I am thinking.” [Rage sends.]

[More silence over the connection.]

“Perhaps you are right maybe a direct approach might be best. If and it is a big if, if Crystal is alive and I can gain that old ‘Trojan’s’ trust we might be able to help each other. Since the ‘Dark Son’ claim Crystal is dead they will hardly be keen to release her alive even if Damascus does their bidding?” [Rage sends.]

“That is a valid point. You tell him - we know she is alive - and we will betray this fact to the authorities if he refuses to cooperate fully with us.” [Harbinger sends.]

“That is a bit strong Harbinger what if she really is dead?” [I send.]

“That makes no sense to me. Listen ‘MT’ even if she was killed by accident I am sure these ‘Omerta’ would have benefited more by covering that fact up than broadcasting it.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I am not so sure your murder of the daughter of a distinguished citizen might be worth an awful lot to a group that hates aliens - think of the propaganda. She could be dead they could be admitting she is dead to the authorities but cleverly claiming she is actually still alive to Damascus. For a start if the authorities believe she is deceased they should relax their vigilance on her father to some degree.” [I send to my Captain.]

“This is why the lie that she is dead works just as well. I believe we can only profit by working on the assumption that Crystal lives. Damascus would need to be a fool to give in to any demand without some proofs she is alive.” [Harbinger sends to me.]

“Seeming proofs could be manufactured.” [I send.]

“Only if they had no choice - in my opinion a clever father would find a way to confirm his child’s identity through any deception. The ‘Dark Son’ if they planned to use Crystal all along would take very good care of her until they get what they want then all bets regarding her safety will be off.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I pray you are right about her current condition Captain.” [I send I reply.]

“Harbinger what is happening? Are you still there?” [Rage sends.]

“Listen Rage you inform Damascus that ultimately making the lie of Crystal’s death - at my hands - a truth is the only sensible path for these alien hating propaganda spreaders.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I will do that?” [Rage sends.]

“Explain that once they have gotten everything they can squeeze from him they must ensure Crystal dies. Emphasise the point that they will never willingly release his child. Granting benevolences is not how these people operate. If Damascus is fool enough to aid them he will just hasten his daughter’s murder.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I understand Harbinger I will heighten all his fears for you.” [Rage sends.]

“You do that; explain that genuinely giving in to their demands will not even gain him as much as a returned corpse to grieve over.” [Harbinger sends.]

“That is harsh Captain.” [I send.]

“It is the truth they will kill her and destroy her body to keep the lie alive that she perished in that ‘Anomalous Matter’ explosion.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Let me guess you want him to pretend cooperation while delaying the process with skilful prevarications and feeding us any intelligence he can glean from his communications with the kidnappers?” [Rage sends.]

“Exactly, by aiding us, he will facilitate her genuine release via force. As I alone am in here - with the terrorists - I am Crystals only hope of escape; make sure he understands that simple fact.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Is that everything?” [Rage sends.]

“Not quite remind Damascus that I have a serious technological advantage over these ‘Dark Son’. Explain I have only held back out of courtesy for the local authorities. Now I promise to do whatever is required to save his daughter. Tell him I feel responsible for her safety because she was my guide.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I hope you know what you are doing Elder.” [Rage sends.]

“It might also do some good to remind him that I am just an Avatar. I had no need to continue operating here beyond aiding Crystal and the other Trojan hostages.” [Harbinger sends.]

“That will help but what if he asks about the use of ‘Anomalous Matter’ explosives in the building?” [Rage sends.]

“You tell him I have only killed ‘Dark Son’ that if any citizens have been casually murdered they have been slaughtered by the terrorists. I am an Elder Paradox Priest not a rampaging killer. However, I did fight in the ‘Core Alliance’ surface war and know how to handle hostage situations this is nothing new to me.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I will do as you ask Harbinger. Be careful in there and by the love of the Emissary think thrice before you let loose with anymore ‘Anomalous Matter’ charges.” [Rage sends signing out.]

“I knew laying that micro ‘AM’ warhead as a booby trap was a bad idea.” [I send.]

“I am not so sure, maybe that explosion has given us the handle we need on this situation.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You have no doubt in your mind? You are positive Crystal is alive?” [I send.]

“Sometimes it is best to set all doubt aside.” [Harbinger sends.]

“What now?” [I send striving to do the same.]

“I think it is past time we relocated to a new hiding place. Staying in one spot too long worries me.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I suppose we have no choice but to remain operative now simply to clear our names.” [I send.]

“They have brought the wrath of this Paradox Priest’s retribution down upon their own heads.” [Harbinger sends resolutely.]

“Careful Captain this could go horribly wrong for us.” [I send.]

“You are becoming a worrier.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I wonder what these ‘Dark Son’ terrorists really want from this folly.” [I send.]

“They certainly are not doing this just for credits.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I would imagine there are easier ways to farm wealth than this. Taking so many Trojan hostages will damage their reputation with the populace at large. No this has to be about something other than plain old larceny.” [I send.]

“I will say one thing for them they are not all fools somebody here is flexible enough to see and to seize an advantage. They are obviously not just operating by rote.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Indeed they must have a commander able and willing to change and adapt their plan.” [I send.]

“Yes it would seem we have at least one real opponent here.” [Harbinger sends.]



[Location: Meditation Cubicles, MTC Headquarters, Green Orb Alpha, Core Alliance Space, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 11:22.][Date 12.02.04SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 12.02.01.]

“That was the easiest three million credits I ever made.” [Unholy boasted via his sending.]

“I guess we all have our specialities and I should have known better than to underestimate your prowess in close combat.” [Harbinger sends but I could feel he was smiling inside.]

“So what is this about a virtual environment you know nothing ever tops the real thing.” [Unholy sends from inside his individual meditation cubicle.]

“This is no fantasy world I am taking you to see it is a scientific projection of the final product of an undertaking Hierophant Cad has been working on for some time. Our destination is a representation of a Neweden.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Neweden that would be the Trojan’s ambitious so-called planet forming project: The one that aims to create fully self sustaining open atmosphere surface conditions on ‘Sea Spheres’.” [Unholy sends.]

“So you have not entirely been ignoring what has been going on all around you.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Neweden is hardly a secret not on the Trojan Wharf anyway.” [Unholy sends.]

“I hope you have not experienced this journey already as Cad’s guest.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You think I would waste my time in a shadow play - not likely - I am only here now under protest because you insisted brother.” [Unholy sends.]

“I think you may be surprised this is something special.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Even if Cad succeeds in creating an ecological paradise what about the threat of Armageddon? A ‘Sea Sphere’ shield purge would bring an abrupt end to all our vain endeavours.” [Unholy sends.]

“No future is ever guaranteed but Cad’s people are looking into solving that difficulty with a massive amount of funding and I know they are finally making some useful progress. At last they have come up with a viable constructible concept.” [Harbinger sends.]

“A viable constructible concept - great - knowing that gives me a warm and wonderfully safe feeling deep inside. Are you serious? If Cad is not bluffing about Armageddon somebody else maybe even our friend Draakhaal will eventually figure out how to instigate a catastrophic ‘Sea Sphere’ shield purge then at best the entire ‘Core Alliance’ will be held to ransom?” [Unholy sends.]

“The counter concept involved is a good one the Trojan are working flat out on a sort of lock out mechanism that should prevent any shield purge from happening unless - we - decide to initiate it.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Is that possible and why by the Emissary would we want to initiate Armageddon?” [Unholy sends.]

“Cad claims it is and as to why we might want to - who knows - maybe one day to clean our own houses when we are ready to move on.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Ready to move on by that you mean extra Universal you are becoming as space crazy as Draakhaal.” [Unholy sends.]

“No my vision is slowly clearing like a ship emerging from a foggy nebula.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Even if this so-called ‘lock out’ is a viable science what happens if Cad fails to come up with a working device in time?” [Unholy sends.]

“Like I said no future is ever guaranteed. We already have contingency plans in place that will save a seed of our species - our particular civilisation - but I hope it will not come to that.” [Harbinger sends.]

“A seed of our species we live in crazy times Harbinger. Still I suppose there is no point worrying about matters you have no control over.” [Unholy sends.]

“Can you really do that just shrug it off?” [Harbinger sends.]

“Of course it is bigger than I am.” [Unholy sends.]

“You are so wise and so foolish my friend.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Will you initiate this silly virtual reality program so I can get this over with?” [Unholy sends.]

[Paranoid66]

[[TWELVE]] [[Part two]]

[Location: Shroud Suit designated as Avatar Beta One’, Terra Nova hotel, Vantage Four Hyper-city, Icarus Domains, Sanctuary Orb, Dark Coordinate, Tier II Space, Inner Systems, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 20:36.][Date 12.02.04SA (Second Accord) 9th PA 12.02.01.]

“How are things going in there Harbinger?” [Rage sends.]

“The ‘Dark Son’ have been looking for us and got pretty close a few times but so far we have managed to avoid them.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Really you have had no further contact with the enemy at all?” [Rage sends.]

“No engagement but we have been watching them and managed to scout out more of this building putting it under surveillance by bug.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Sounds like you are making progress. I have news Harbinger you were right the ‘Dark Son Freedom Fighters’ are claiming Crystal is alive and Damascus believes them.” [Rage sends.]

“That is wonderful.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Have you any idea where they might be holding her yet?” [Rage sends.]

“Not specifically but I am beginning to think they are somewhere near the top.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Maybe they are planning an extraction by the roof.” [Rage sends.]

“That is exactly what I have been thinking. Does Damascus know what they are really after yet?” [Harbinger sends.]

“They want him to gain access to a certain office then follow instructions. Damascus believes their target is confidential files: records belonging to the ‘Social Advancement and Reform Committee’. Damascus fears that to go to this much trouble it must be seriously explosive stuff.” [Rage sends.]

“What does Damascus think about that?” [Harbinger asked.]

“He is not happy he tells me he could not possibly release information of that value even to save his daughter. He fears the sort of data the ‘Dark Son’ want is likely to cause an outbreak of anarchy here. Damascus comes across as a person of high principle - not really my type of sentient - but I admire the depths of his conviction.” [Rage sends.]

“So he will be more than happy to work with us then.” [Harbinger sends.]

“He is glad enough of our assistance. He is a realist I made sure he understood they would never hand his daughter over alive. I got an Exogenous link from ‘MT’ for him, all you have to do now is activate it and you can talk to the old Trojan direct.” [Rage sends.]

“Fine send me the units details and I will do that.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Sending data now.” [Rage sends.]

“Damascus are you receiving me.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Is that you Harbinger?” [Damascus sends.]

“It is. Have you any idea how these terrorists found out about your daughters travel plans and that I was with her?” [Harbinger sends.]

“I am afraid not Harbinger I wish I did. I do not know who I can trust among my people anymore.” [Damascus sends.]

“It would be best if you trust no one at the moment outside Rage, ‘MT’ and me. Have you spoken with Crystal? Do you have any idea where she might be being held in this building?” [Harbinger sends.]

“We did not talk as such, messages were passed, I was told to supply questions only Crystal could answer then they later relayed the answers.” [Damascus sends.]

“How was that done?” [Harbinger sends.]

“They also smuggled an Exogenous link out to me.” [Damascus sends.]

“How did they manage that?” [Harbinger sends.]

“Again I do not know I found it in my home with a note.” [Damascus sends.]

“Where exactly was it put?” [Harbinger sends.]

“It was left for me to discover in my bedroom among my night clothes.” [Damascus sends.]

“So who had access?” [Harbinger sends.]

“Lots of people at the moment, I have domestic staff and recently there has been a lot of extra security people breezing through here.” [Damascus sends.]

“To the questions you gave out, you received all the right answers in reply.” [Harbinger sends.]

“All the questions she was supposed to get right, I included two trick questions that she could not answer. I am confident she is alive.” [Damascus sends.]

“Clever Damascus I like that. So what happens now?” [Harbinger sends.]

“I told them it would not be safe for me do as they wish for at least two or three days then I might be able to make some excuse to visit the office involved without raising undue suspicion. There is far too much furore around me at the moment, and I am supposed to be grieving for my daughter’s death as well.” [Damascus sends.]

“How did they take that?” [Harbinger sends.]

“They were suspicious and accused me of stalling they made lots of threats but I refused to budge. I told them I was convinced if I went now I would simply get caught which I knew would result in my daughters death. I told them I would not kill my own daughter for the sake of some foolishly unrealistic timetable.” [Damascus sends.]

“Anything else you think I should know?” [Harbinger sends.]

“They say they have people watching me and told me some stuff about my movements that seemed to indicate that this is true.” [Damascus sends.]

“Have they said anything about Rage?” [Harbinger sends.]

“No so far they do not seem to know your friend made contact with me he was very sly in his approach.” [Damascus sends.]

“Good then there is still hope this could work.” [Harbinger sends.]

“What else can I do Harbinger I feel I need to do something more?” [Damascus sends.]

“Try to get them to let you talk directly to your daughter. Claim that thinking about it you are not entirely satisfied with their message proofs. Tell them you are convinced the process is hardly incorruptible: that even you could have devised correct answers via good computer analysis.” [Harbinger sends.]

“That may be difficult to sell Harbinger I used some pretty good questions.” [Damascus sends.]

“Just do the best you can. You could try telling them that before you are willing to do their job you want to speak with her in person. That is an understandable request from a worried father. Tell them you are concerned about her wellbeing beyond simply being alive. Tell them you will not cooperate unless you get proof they have not hurt her in other ways.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Do you think they have harmed her?” [Damascus sends.]

“No I think they will be taking good care of her at least until they get what they want, but if saying these things give you any chance of talking to your daughter…”[Harbinger sends trailing off.]

“I understand I will do what I can.” [Damascus sends.]

“I am hoping if you can get to talk to her, there is always a slim chance she might be able to pass along more than they realise in the conversation. I imagine you know your daughter better than almost anyone else does. Hostages often give away small clues by telling fake anecdotes and so on when permitted to communicate.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I think I could arrange a safe way out of the quarantine zone for you and my daughter friend Harbinger.” [Damascus sends.]

“No do not even consider doing anything like that. The way things have progressed we have no idea who might be compromised at your end.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I understand. Can you really save her? You are just one person.” [Damascus sends.]

“Luckily I am not even that the fact that I am only an Avatar gives me a serious advantage especially as long as they are not aware of that fact.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You really think you can beat all of them? How can you possibly do that?” [Damascus sends.]

“Best you do not know. However if your daughter can be saved I will free her.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I pray the Blessings of the Emissary will go with you Harbinger.” [Damascus sends.]

“Best make sure you are less appreciative of my efforts in public Damascus.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Rage my friend stay away from Damascus from here on in since he is being watched.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I know I am not a fool Acolyte Harbinger.” [Rage sends.]

“Sorry I just want to make sure nothing goes wrong at your end.” [Harbinger sends.]

“What will you do now?” [Rage sends.]

“Rescue Crystal the hard way by the looks of it.” [Harbinger sends signing out.]

“Well ‘MT’I think we will squeeze our way up to the top floor avoiding any contact then systematically work our way back down checking every room if necessary.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I suppose that sounds like a plan.” [I send.]

“What have the villains we know about in here been up to?” [Harbinger sends.]

“They have just finished making a few short range detectors they are geniuses at low tech solutions Harbinger. Primitive stuff but they should still reveal us if we pass nearby.” [I send.]

“What principle are they using?” [Harbinger sends.]

“Directed sonic pulses a high frequency pulse is sent out and should bounce off most surfaces to return back giving a basic image of any solid to a receiver. Many things could possible interfere with it but against Paradox Stealth it is not a bad choice at this tech level. They won‘t get much of an accurate image but they will get a blip.” [I send.]

“What range are we talking about here?” [Harbinger sends.]

“Far enough to cover the largest spaces here but it will only light up where it is pointed at and will not penetrate walls or any other solid object.” [I send.]

“Anything we can do against that?” [Harbinger sends.]

“Our suit could emit its own pulses to create noise it would likely confuse the unit but they would still know we are in the general vicinity.” [I send.]

“Good enough, I wish them the best of luck with that one. I think they would have more success with the sprinklers.” [Harbinger sends.]

“They are also distributing bags of some kind of food powder to their troops as well for - you will love this - throwing at us.” [I send.]

“I suppose any cloud of fluffy particulate matter could work to show us up to some degree.” [Harbinger sends.]

“It is a bit amusing to think our marvellous science might be overcome by a foodstuff.” [I send.]

“Such trials are sent to teach us humility.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I keep wondering would we ever have experienced these situations if you were actually in this suit or would we just have simply endeavoured to find a way to quietly exit the building.” [I send.]

“You think I am playing around that we should have run away. I suppose I certainly feel a lot braver by proxy. However, what does it matter this is the form we are in and this is where we are. Now give me a moments peace to look at these plans so I can figure out the quickest safest way to the top floor.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Like this one.” [I send highlighting a route straight through the building with waypoints and additional instructions via point and click icons.]

“Show off.” [Harbinger sends.]



[Location: Alpha Commissary, MTC Headquarters, Green Orb Alpha, Core Alliance Space, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 22:03.][Date 12.02.04SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 12.02.01.]

[Unholy Terror and my Captain were resting in a booth standing around a small Paradox high table against a far bulkhead. From this position they could see the main entrance but remain reasonably concealed.]

[The Door opened and Harbinger’s Tri-optic glared over to identify the newcomers as three more socialising family Acolytes. A quick data search flagged no alarms. Everything appeared perfectly normal given their work schedules and duties.]

“Harbinger will you relax. Apart from off duty Acolytes this place is full of undercover on duty very vigilant MTC Marines and you have guards outside in the corridor as well confirming your peoples genetic identities before they can even get in.” [Unholy sends.]

“Sorry I guess my security people finding those smuggled bomb components upset me more than I thought.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Who do you think is responsible for that?” [Unholy sends.]

“I would imagine if not Draakhaal then one or more members of the ‘Stellar Court’ I just wish I knew how they had planned to assemble those pieces inside here.” [Harbinger sends.]

“The price of great fame or just meddling in politics is that somebody always wants to kill you.” [Unholy sends.]

“Thanks, that really makes me feel a lot better.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Why so upset you knew this sort of thing was highly likely.” [Unholy sends.]

“Knowing somebody might try to assassinate me and having bomb parts found on my Headquarters where I am staying is not quite the same thing.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I guess it is not. Have a drink it will relax you.” [Unholy sends.]

“Why not take the edge off a bit, even if it is setting a bad example?” [Harbinger sends extending a tube into the shared spirit bucket.]

“No need to worry on my account. Life is for living Harbinger I am sure your security will uncover the culprit or culprits on station given the outrageous amount of credits you spend on internal defences here.” [Unholy sends.]

“I hope so. The idea that we have saboteur assassins onboard is mildly distracting.” [Harbinger sends looking at the ripples in the bucket.]

“An interesting puzzle given how tight your restrictions on access are.” [Unholy sends.]

“That is what worries me.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Tell me something Harbinger how many Acolytes do you have now?” [Unholy sends.]

“I have no idea sometimes it seems that my family is expanding at an exponential rate. To think I used to know every single one by name back when we all lived on my ‘Many Truths’.” [Harbinger sends.]

“We may not be keeping up with Draakhaal when it comes to adults but we certainly could be more than matching him when it comes to children.” [Unholy sends.]

“I suppose we are I often forget about my Acolyte host the ‘MTC’ hordes.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You have created quite a little Empire.” [Unholy sends.]

“Please putting it like that you will be getting me exiled like Composure. Besides it more or less runs itself now.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I would not worry too much you are not the only one who has grown a massive family it seems to be the way things are going.” [Unholy sends.]

“Sometimes it does worry me I wonder are we becoming corporate nations. Times have changed and so have we. Look at Hierophant Cad his family are deemed a nation I worry some of us Paradox are just as self sufficient.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Thankfully Hierophant Cad is unique that is why he gets away with so much.” [Unholy sends.]

“Trust me, Cad is not as unique as you think.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Captain I have news of great import.” [I send.]

“About the bombers?” [Harbinger sends.]

“No about the Laboratory Investigation,” [I send.]

“I don’t understand if any of my threads had found something I obviously would know unless it was something very subtle and we have got too close to the data - is that it?” [Harbinger sends.]

“Not exactly Captain I decided to do a little cyber investigating on my own. I took the physical statistics and requirements of the known laboratory every scrap of data I could glean and ran search comparisons across the ‘Core Alliance’ with the aid of some ‘Living Hull’ friends.” [I send.]

“You found the back up laboratory wonderful.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Not exactly Captain I found two hundred and eighty seven very high probability matches and twelve high probability matches. I think Draakhaal has three hundred cloning facilities here.” [I send.]

“Three hundred are you sure?” [Harbinger sends.]

“The figures are compelling Harbinger but I will leave surety to confirmations on the ground by your Avatars or whoever you deem appropriate.” [I send.]

“Three hundred, I suppose the number itself is a mockery of our fixation on the triangulation of Paradox good fortune. Draakhaal is not without a twisted sense of humour.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I am sending you the data Harbinger.” [I send.]

“Got it three hundred - if this proves true - we are going to have to mobilise the Cadre maybe even the Legion as well. I do not suppose you found any sign of Draakhaal.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I am sorry Captain there is nothing in my data that would single out the residence of the Arch Chancellor among the three hundred.” [I send.]

“I suppose that would be far too much to hope for. Great work ‘MT’ these ‘Living Hulls’ they can be trusted?” [Harbinger sends.]

“They are all loyal to the inner ‘Core Alliance’ and have promised to wipe the data from their own memories and I have faith in them.” [I send.]

“You are full of surprises ‘MT’.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I do my best Captain.” [I send.]

“Unholy I have some data for you prepare yourself for a shock.” [Harbinger sends sharing the download.]

[A moment of silence followed.]

“Three hundred Harbinger and spread right across the ‘Core Alliance’.” [Unholy sends.]

“It certainly looks like Draakhaal has been very busy.” [Harbinger sends.]

“We should have known our old adversary would not do anything on a small scale. The ‘Living Hulls’ provided this data that is very interesting as well.” [Unholy sends.]

“So it is, it is rare for them to act independently as a group like this they must be concerned.” [Harbinger sends.]

“This is the ‘Living Hulls’ Emissary Sphere as well. Three hundred this is going to provide some fun.” [Unholy sends.]

“Every time you get enthusiastic it depresses me.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Just like old times Harbinger it is a pity other old friends cannot be with us.” [Unholy sends.]

“Keeping this covert is not going to be easy. Drink up we have a lot of work ahead of us brother.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Brother you have called me that before - I confess I kind of like it.” [Unholy sends.]

“Actually I think you used that honorific for me first.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I did? Well I see no harm in choosing our own kin.” [Unholy sends moving around the table to embrace his friend.]

“Once more into the fire and out again.” [Harbinger sends.]

“This should make a good entry in the scriptures.” [Unholy sends.]

“You should see the look on Cad’s face.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You have just told him? Please share.” [Unholy sends.]

“I have.” [Harbinger sends transmitting a visual.]

“Yes that is a picture worth storing.” [Unholy sends.]

“Indeed it may well prove a future historic document of note.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I do not care what you say I want one of those suits. It would be a way to recreate the ‘Nine’ all by myself. I would not have to suffer losing any more family members just Avatars.” [Unholy sends.]

“Interesting idea Unholy I admit I never thought of it quite like that. Perhaps I will have a word with Composure on your behalf after all, maybe something can be done.” [Harbinger sends.]

“That would be wonderful - Brother.” [Unholy sends.]

“I am warping us both back direct to my ‘Secure Command Core’.” [Harbinger sends.]

[Paranoid66]

Sorry people, posted Twelve a bit too soon (striving to post before the bank holiday) upon rereading the start I took a dislike to the Recycler bit and felt compelled to rewrite it.

As a result it has stretched a bit so I cut Twelve into two parts and have now posted both. I felt the original treatment of the Recyclers failed to flow properly and some of the interaction was not right.

Maybe you could let me know if you think it has improved. I know that section is a bit long but I felt it was important to show another aspect of that species as they have not been covered much in my story.

P66.

[Paranoid66]

[[THIRTEEN]]


[Location: Shroud Suit designated as Avatar Beta One’, Terra Nova hotel, Vantage Four Hyper-city, Icarus Domains, Sanctuary Orb, Dark Coordinate, Tier II Space, Inner Systems, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 21:41.][Date 12.02.04SA (Second Accord) 9th PA 12.02.01.]

[Despite finding the situation increasingly worrying, I admit the skill with which my Captain utilised his ‘Shroud Suit’ was inspirational to parts of my imagination.]

[Sharing in Harbinger’s Avatar action not only showed me just how mature ‘Shroud Suit’ technology had become it made me reconsider wider less evil possibilities.]

[As a ‘Living Hull’, I had never employed a Paradox ‘Shroud Suit’ as an Avatar for any - long-term - distinct thread of my own consciousness: In fact, I did not know of any ‘Living Hull’ that had dared to openly do such a thing. Still how would I know ‘Shroud Suits’ were designed to hide what lay within.]

[It made me wonder about my initial neural programming. I supposed the Paradox species had gone to great lengths to ensure we remained their servants and had no huge ambitions of our own (beyond our desire to facilitate our owners’ purposes) a bit like their Acolytes.]

[Dressing part of ourselves up as if a shroud suited Priest felt inappropriate: The impersonation of our betters our masters and owners an identity theft - an unethical and dishonest action - but the idea of interacting with Harbinger on almost physically equal terms still fascinated a part of me as it always had done.]

[I questioned the validity of the conservative nature of my species. Had we really completely overlooked the potential provided by this Paradox science? If so our timidity no longer impressed me, I was reconsidering the value of self-imposed restraint.]

[To walk with my Captain to be his companion in body as well as in disembodied spirit would be truly amazing - in all the years of our service - I could hardly have been the first ‘Hull’ to conceive of such an undertaking: I concluded that others must have dared to incarnate themselves in this manner even if I had not. This concept was not as crazy as my earlier idea regarding a full sized ‘Living Hull’ Avatar surrogate body. I knew a lot secretly went on in any family purposely kept quiet and in house. I decided I would speak with my fellow ‘Living Hulls’ and investigate further.]

[Of course, threads of my consciousness had run drones and ‘Suits’ as weapons in supportive tactical combat situations on numerous occasions (to complete short specific mission objectives under heavy direction) but embodying my consciousness for the purpose of more subtle social interaction would be something new.]

[Recently I seemed to be thinking many unusual thoughts about myself: what I wanted and who I was as an individual rather than concentrating on my role as a part of the wider family. The youthful easy fulfilment gained by following every order to the best of my ability seemed at times to be ebbing away. Did I fear with the family so extended my role had become less important or was my newfound questions the result of Harbinger permitting me to grow so much in mind and body?]

[I also wondered once again was my discontent the result of all the threads I was running in tandem with all the threads of Harbinger’s consciousness. Otherwise, perhaps this streak of newborn independence emerged out of the new gaps in our Companion-ship link (caused by my Captain’s recent reticence to share his darker side as he plotted against Draakhaal and Stage III). Reluctantly I concluded that in fact, a rich melange of things including items I no doubt had not even consciously perceived were stimulating my recent thoughts and feelings.]



[Back on the ground it was not long before we had used up all the remote scout bugs that came preinstalled in my Priest Captain’s suit, luckily we could manufacture some more from tiny bits of suit substance.]

[The latest difficulty became managing and monitoring all the live feeds from so many miniature spies. Harbinger had me allocate more and more of my own mental resources to that task with I have to add a great deal of success.]

[As our coverage broadened, we noticed the ‘Dark Son’ continued to give orders aloud amongst each other occasionally even foolishly discussing tactics and stratagems clearly oblivious to our increasingly widespread surveillance. This crazy behaviour made our task a lot easier than it would otherwise have been. Among the revelations uncovered was the fact that a large number of the so-called terrorists here where not ideological at all they were just hired thugs and mercenaries bought in to make up the numbers.]

[As I watched on and made notes, Harbinger commenced to work his way back down from the top floor. This time we did not slip around the ‘Omerta’ Terrorists as if they were blind and deaf despite their low-tech gizmos and innovations. This time in an increasingly jaunty and daring manner, Harbinger commenced to decrease their ranks. Whenever my Captain could assault them without giving our immediate position away, he did so. We killed as we passed as if a poisoned air loosed from a poorly maintained life support system (silently without passion or quarter).]

[Just like the famous Phantom Marines of old, we became an invisible fearful ghostly apparition. The foe only registered our presence when it was far too late.]

[While terrorists walked below, we clung to the ceiling and dropped down upon them from above. When they looked right, we emerged from the left. When they looked up we grabbed them from below, when they stared forward in trepidation we crept up like a soul-stealing thief from behind.]

[When a distraction was required, Harbinger used a separate extruded remote. This helpmate a stealthy independent drone would emit a deliberate noise or reveal a glimpse of a part of its body. Otherwise, we took them silently with blades, lances, spikes or a little less quietly with a hammer like mace not to mention rather horribly with hooks and wires of sharp suit substance.]



[Soon it became a grisly game. We began to feel dominant; this helped to calm down my anxieties about my ‘Hulls’ safety elsewhere although the number of assassination / executions of these sentient beings (even as criminals) commenced to horrify me.]

[Our foes it appeared had made a big mistake when they seized this tower block hotel with my Captain in it. The beast was not trapped inside here with them as they had once thought they where trapped inside here with Harbinger’s murderous Avatar.]



[Once the attrition became public, our spies revealed a growing level of panic among the Terrorists in the Hotel’s lower levels. Tongues began to loosen even more as they worried, argued and speculated about what their Commander would / should do in response. Divisions became ever more apparent between the ideological and the mercenary.]

[Many of the more practical criminals were very unhappy with the whole situation and we even watched a few violent disputes erupting one resulted in a unit commander’s demise.]

[As the enemy’s resolve commenced to crumble the fallouts produced rash words that permitted us to gain a firm fix on Crystal’s position. The ease with which we ultimately achieved this long desired boon actually felt like something of an anti-climax.]

[Of course Harbinger could have stolen one or more of his victim’s minds and read them like a database but he felt that would be immoral as they were still Trojan’s just like our old friend Hierophant Cad. My Captain perhaps feared to cross that line lest it led to future temptation with the Hierophants who retained many secrets we would love to glean.]

[Luckily, no mental Inquisition was required nor the assistance of Damascus - a good thing too - as the ‘Dark Son’ kept refusing the old Trojan’s demand for direct communication with his young daughter.]

[The Terrorists insisted Damascus had more than enough proof of her wellbeing and that should he prove to be in any way uncooperative (beyond the necessary delay they had reluctantly accepted) there would be dire consequences for Crystal.]

[Damascus fretted whilst we - more secretly - found the Terrorists stern refusals a little troubling as well. Could they have harmed Crystal by accident or design?]

“Would you like to hear your daughter screaming?” [One Terrorist had stated bluntly.]

[After that threat with our consent, Damascus had given up haranguing her captors.]

[Quickly the ‘Omerta’ hunting parties that had been organised to track us down became scarce. The wise realised the folly of seeking us out. Those few still pushed into actively looking for us - often after discovering their colleagues’ remains - became rather keen to fail and tended to look diligently in areas they had good reasons to suspect we would not be.]

[Oddly, we still had encountered no more hostages since we left the foyer beyond two more pathetic corpses left where they had fallen both Hotel security personnel.]

[Using a duct, we backtracked and dipped down below level Sixty-Six to confuse any search parties. Harbinger had decided to reconnoitre our target from below. Slowly carefully he drilled a hole in the ceiling of Level Sixty-Five unleashing three bugs onto the floor above.]

[It did not take our remote spies long to locate Crystal in the large converted open plan office space above us now a heavily secured command post. We also uncovered an off line and from the mass of installation gear all around it: hastily erected ‘Surface Gate’ constructed from a series of slot and fit stored components.]

[As we watched, our delight gave way to a degree of incredulous shock: Crystal was unrestrained and was cozening up to one of the terrorists. It was clear our guide was fully cooperating with her captors she certainly was not acting like a prisoner.]

“Funny but I had stopped suspecting Crystal might be involved.” [Harbinger sends to me.]

“So had I, is it possible she is just playing along with them in some manner?” [I send.]

[As we continued to view what appeared to be the group’s principle command post it became obvious she was doing more than collaborating to protect her own safety, she was issuing orders under her own initiative. The well-equipped ‘Dark Son’ members here obeyed her without question or hesitation in a manner that seemed to us far too casual to be new.]

“So Crystal is not just working with them; she is one of them and by the looks of this high up in the command staff. Poor Damascus must be ignorant of the fact that his daughter is a rogue Splitter from his house.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Do ‘Omerta’ Trojan people have Splitters?” [I send.]

“I am sure they have individuals who choose to reject their family’s ideological beliefs or simply have divergently opposed ambitions what else should we call them.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Well this answers how those felons knew all about us and Crystal’s whereabouts.” [I send.]

“I suppose she is not worried if we are destroyed as she knows full well we are just an Avatar.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Perhaps that is a salve to her conscience but it would appear she has not told her friends the whole truth about us in which case she is rather complicit in their deaths.” [I send.]

“That is an interesting point of view.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Perhaps she is using them as much as she is hoping to use her own Father.” [I send.]

“That makes a lot of sense ‘MT’ she certainly seems to be manipulating that ‘Omerta’ she is flirting outrageously with.” [Harbinger replied.]

“The rest do not seem happy with your actions Harbinger.” [I send.]

“They definitely are not; while that Leader seems cool enough the rest (at least those that are not in full combat suits) look pretty jittery to me.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Yes they are definitely nervous, I wonder what Crystal’s sordid little game is.” [I send.]

“I was just wondering exactly the same thing.” [Harbinger sends.]

“What do we do now looking at the setup in there extracting a cooperative subject would be difficult enough; bringing out a non compliant prisoner will be even harder?” [I send.]

“I know we should have worried more about the other hostages who are under a more genuine threat.” [Harbinger sends.]

“What is done is history.” [I send.]

“That gate is clearly the ‘Dark Son’ escape route it appears operational they just have not powered it up yet. I suppose we could use that device against them. We just need to switch it on and hook it up to a friendly terminus. We could even link this side to the ‘Surface Gate’ we keep stored in your hold ‘MT’ then we can abduct Crystal and carry her through to the other side over her objections.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You make it sound easy.” [I send.]

“The locals could also use this gate to bring in anti terrorist forces then happily they can take over this entire operation. That way if anything goes seriously wrong down the line we can hopefully avoid suffering the responsibility for it. I think we have been used enough already given Crystal’s involvement.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Careful Harbinger these ones weapons are a lot more powerful than the stuff that was used in the lobby or we saw in those hunting parties. That powered armour looks effective and some of the others have what appears to me to be - fully up to date - personal shield systems.” [I send.]

“I know I am not blind did you see the markings on the empty weapon and equipment crates they are all ‘Orb Guidance’ Government Issue. I think the arms and the ‘Surface Gate’ must have been stored somewhere in this building in a secret depot of some sort that Crystal no doubt knew about.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Of course that explains why Crystal led us specifically here to this location it was no accident.” [I send.]

“She saw an excuse for a field trip when she met us and used it to her advantage.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I hate lying schemers.” [I send.]

[Harbinger brought up our blueprints of the building and studied it for a time.]

“Perfect if we have a fight on our hands I think I can even the odds more than a little using the explosives I confiscated and a couple of very carefully placed micro ‘AM’ warheads.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Please show me your plan.” [I send concerned at his proposed use of more ‘Anomalous Matter’.]

“We isolate this area by taking out the access areas here and here using ‘AM’ shaping the blast energy like so.” [Harbinger said demonstrating using a virtual mock up.]

“I see well away from the open office itself I like it so far.” [I send.]

“If I squeeze in between the bulkheads I can also deploy the ‘Omerta’ demolitions charges I confiscated as mines let me see how about here, here, here and here and I will also scatter a whole series of mini charges to sabotage lighting and so on as well as to sow general confusion and keep the ‘Omerta’ worried. We wait for the right moment when the majority of the terrorists are in these general positions then we detonate the prime charges and storm in during the brief confusion that should follow.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I am analysing the overall likely structural damage now… very good Harbinger you have my permission to blast away as long as you make sure the areas affected are empty of non combatants and Crystal will not be harmed - we will need that one alive.” [I send with Companion-ship amusement.]

“Thank you for your permission War Master.” [Harbinger replied with a little amusement of his own.]

[A few moments later…]

“Curse these heartless monsters they have this whole wider floor packed with civilians this seems to be where most of them have been dragged to. Look at how they are all trussed up and lying together like fish in a Legion ‘Surface Dwellers’ ration can.” [Harbinger sends.]

“So much for the easy ‘AM’ solution.” [I send.]

“If we go in there without a serious advantage they will quickly be reinforced from these other rooms and we will be caught in crossfire. If this suit blows Crystal and a lot of those hostages are going to die in the conflagration and it will be our fault.” [Harbinger sends.]

“If we cannot use a direct assault what about stealth could we steal her out of there like a thief. We could use our stealthy drone to remotely activate the gate.” [I send.]

[Harbinger examined the equipment in the room.]

“If I am not mistaken that patched in control panel gives them access to the buildings scan and warp interference lattice which is currently locked down. We will need to operate that panel, hook up the power cables and activate the gate that is three separate tasks already. They are no fools they have not connected the main power supply yet.” [Harbinger sends.]

“So we deploy more than one drone in fact I would suggest sending a few spare ones in just in case we have casualties.” [I send.]

“This ‘Suit’ is not an endless well of material my functionality will be badly diminished if we do that.” [Harbinger sends.]

“That hardly matters we avoid combat, we just sneak in and hide with this suit fully reconfigured for nothing but stealth and speed. When the gate activates we grab Crystal and rush through then we send in our Acolyte Marines from the other side. Once our Marines secure the gate we call in local help to continue on with the operation of freeing the rest of the hostages from that position of strength.” [I send.]

“If they continue to stay this close together we could grab that Leader Crystal is so friendly with as well. He could be handy to use to secure an advantage in relation to freeing the hostages via belated negotiation. I am worried that otherwise the terrorists might just start killing their captives out of pique.” [Harbinger sends.]

“There is always a risk they will do that anyway.” [I send.]

“It is a good thing they believe we care nothing about the Trojan Hostages lives.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Indeed otherwise they would have used them against us I guess being an alien - beast - has its advantages after all.” [I send.]

“Nonetheless, if lots of civilians die we may still be blamed for forcing a confrontation whilst negotiations were technically ongoing.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I know, however what happens if Crystal gets away using that gate. They will believe we killed her in the ‘Anomalous Matter’ explosion and the terrorists may still butcher the hostages. Even if we show our visual evidence if the authorities decide it will benefit them, they might bury the truth denouncing our recordings as manufactured fakes. Our proofs would work against us as a cowardly slur on Crystal’s name used to cover our criminal negligence.” [I send.]

“You just want to leave this building. However, you are right that gate makes their extraction far too easy. I imagine they are only hanging around here for the sake of their troop’s morale. Crystal even as a pretend hostage would be safer moved to some other fully unknown location.” [Harbinger sends.]

“The best thing about our plan is we retain complete control over the assets used we do not have to inform or bring in the locals until after we have secured that small ‘Surface Gate’ and Crystal.” [I send.]

“Fine ‘MT’ mobilise our Marines get our own ‘Surface Gate’ up and ready and I will make some drones. We can still use the ‘Omerta’ explosives idea this time though I will plant them just as a distraction to help cover the drone’s activation of the Terrorists Gate: Smaller charges in several places lots of noise smoke and a little fire. I also, want you to set up some portable stasis field emitters so we can catch both Crystal and her friend in them as soon as they enter your hold. I think it would be best for us to take as few chances as possible: we have no idea just how fanatical these people are.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Will the use of explosive not negate our stealth due to activating the sprinkler system.” [I send.]

“Not here did you not notice the signage they do not use water here because of all the electrical office equipment they use a gas that should be much less of a problem (especially for small drones if they keep mostly low to the floor).” [Harbinger sends.]

[We began our preparations I admit I was worried about the hostages but I was also concerned about my own safety if Harbinger retained the blame for Crystal’s death he could probably also end up being an easy political dupe for every other casualty here.]

[I was anxious for this whole situation to end and to get off this Trojan ‘Sea Sphere’ where my ‘Hull’ felt increasingly under threat being stuck in the ‘Omerta’ dock already felt like being in a prison. In fact, I felt like a hostage held by the ‘Omerta’ authorities against my Avatar Captain’s good behaviour.]

[In future I would be quite happy for others to deal with these fractious ‘Omerta’ who could not even rely on the fidelity of their own closest family members. Crystal’s betrayal of her Father’s trust was shocking to me it seemed far worse than anything I had ever heard of a Paradox Splitter doing to his Father.]



[Location: Shroud Suit designated as Avatar Beta One’, Terra Nova hotel, Vantage Four Hyper-city, Icarus Domains, Sanctuary Orb, Dark Coordinate, Tier II Space, Inner Systems, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 01:01.][Date 13.02.04SA (Second Accord) 9th PA 13.02.01.]

[We entered the office rather cheekily in synchronous step directly behind two ‘Omerta’ in heavy armour so close we could easily have reached out and touched them with our suit substance.]

[Standing still as the guards at the door gave their returning friends a quick scan and passed them on; it was easy to forget I was not here the moment was that intense.]

[Having passed the first ordeal and being inside we very carefully made our way to our pre selected hiding place.]

[Our six drones had already moved in well ahead of us making the most of their smaller size and were mostly in their own designated positions. Explosives lay behind the walls; bugs watched the room via every conceivable sensor angle.]

[It was a big space so even with all the active ‘Omerta’ and their masses of equipment it did not feel too crowded. As I tracked Drone epsilon moving from its allotted placement to avoid contact with one wandering Trojan, I was glad of the extra room.]

[The majority of the offices furniture most notably desks with built in computer terminals had been neatly stacked against one bulkhead. Crystal was staying close to her terrorist Commander who we learned went by the name of Best. Given the way they behaved, it was hard to tell if Best was Crystal’s leader or her subordinate he certainly appeared to be her mating partner. Still her clinginess suited our purpose perfectly.]

[Waiting for the right moment Harbinger was about to issue the go command when Crystal pushed away from Best laughing and moved off on her own.]

“Curse her.” [Harbinger sends to me.]

“Relax she is just going to get them some food from their field kitchen.” [I send.]

“Every delay increases the chance of our discovery.” [Harbinger sends.]

“They all seem at ease now.” [I send.]

“Our seventh drones activity has them thinking we are heading down again away from this command post. They have dropped their guard just as I imagined they would but any little mistake by one of our drones here could alert them.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Your decoy was a good addition to my plan.” [I send.]

“Your plan.” [Harbinger sends.]

“My plan.” [I insisted.]

“You will have me glowing yellow. Still I might make a War Master of you yet.” [Harbinger sends looking at the feeds on his HUD.]

“I hope not, I just want to get out of here, all this killing depresses me. These ‘Omerta’ criminals must have a small army in this building. Sometimes I wish I did not have perfect recall.” [I send.]

“The ‘Dark Son’ had plenty of time to infiltrate their forces ahead of us they knew where to go in advance.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Crystal played us well.” [I send.]

“She did.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Here she comes with food and drink. I believe the way that she moves would be considered attractive to other Trojans.” [I send.]

“Look at them - a cosy meal for two amidst the carnage - you would think they were both involved in a spot of innocent recreation.” [Harbinger sends.]

“She is feeding him by hand is that a bonding mating ritual of some sort?” [I send.]

“I am not sure but he seems to find it pleasurable.” [Harbinger sends.]

“They are strange creatures Harbinger still I imagine this pairs playful antics and easy attitude in front of their followers is good for morale.” [I send.]

“I suppose it could all be an act.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Field Commanders are known to use bravado think of some of the stunts Unholy used to pull.” [I send.]

“True enough curse it targets zeta and gamma are moving well out of position.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I think they are going for food as well.” [I send.]

“We should have rigged their field kitchen to blow.” [Harbinger sends.]

“It may not pay to be too picky Harbinger like you said the longer we wait the higher will be the chance that we will be discovered and lose the advantage of surprise.” [I send.]

“I know but they might carry their food back to their off duty positions to eat with their friends.” [Harbinger sends.]

[We watched and waited fretting over any signs of out of position movement among the other feeds.]

“You are right Captain they are getting extra for their fellows but others are moving to the kitchen now.” [I send.]

[We checked all the other feeds.]

“I do not know what time they are on but this appears to be the off duty troops appointed hour to eat.” [Harbinger sends.]

“There is not a lot we can do about this.” [I send.]

“I agree we will just have to wait it out and hope for the best.” [Harbinger sends.]

[We waited impatiently continuing to fret in silence. In the end, I decided to speak just to ease the tension.]

“I am looking forward to getting back into open space Captain.” [I send.]

“What is your hurry to leave; this ‘Sanctuary Orb’ is a fascinating place that we have barely explored?” [Harbinger sends.]

“Then activate another Avatar on board me and you can stay behind and be collected by some other ‘MTC’ ship later.” [I send.]

“You would abandon me here?” [Harbinger sends.]

“I would, my ‘Hull’ does not feel safe here do you really wish to risk my destruction?” [I send.]

“I am just jesting with you. I am not heartless ‘MT’ I appreciate your concerns.” [Harbinger sends.]

“A thread of me could stay and help as your bodyguard in a ‘Shroud Suit’.” [I innocently offer.]

“In a ‘Shroud Suit’ - an interesting idea - like a sort of covert scout you could even pretend to be one of my Acolytes.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I suppose I could or to be another Priest you had onboard as a passenger in a stasis chamber.” [I send.]

“Now you are making me laugh you want equal status when dealing with the ‘Omerta’ - why not - I can see no harm in it.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Our operation would have to coincide with meal time.” [Harbinger sends.]

“It might work in our favour. Those eating will hardly be ready for what is coming.” [I send.]

“You are right we should consider it a blessing from the Emissary.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I wonder if Crystal is just using Best.” [I send.]

“Most of all I feel sorry for her Father.” [Harbinger sends.]

[We waited some more. I could sense Harbinger fighting with his impatience.]

“That will do.” [He eventually said.] “I am setting the counter to Mission time minus ten seconds.”

“Nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three, two, one go.” [Harbinger communicated.]

[The first of our bombs went off and our drones sprang into action.]

[Harbinger had changed his mind again when he had laid the devices not every explosion was a mere distraction. Given the level of our opponents, some of the detonations had belatedly been specifically designed to kill or at the very least to stun and maim.]

[The first explosions cast the place into darkness then emergency lights came on briefly before that circuit blew. Fires alone illuminated a scene of chaos. ‘Omerta’ bodies lay strewn all around many landing hard after being physically blasted across the room a few had been completely ripped apart. Those in powered armour had faired better but many had damaged systems. Spilled food and drink was scattered everywhere. We saw no ‘Omerta’ still standing. Unsurprisingly every terrorist was on the floor either knocked down or deliberately seeking cover.]

[Under the blanket of additional dropped smoke grenades power cables miraculously appeared to plug themselves in. Elsewhere in the confusion a drone attacked an armoured guard as he attempted to regain his feet near a vital control panel. Another leapt on the panel itself and began the ‘Surface Gate’ activation sequence. Two more drones made ready to open the Hotels interference lattice.]

[The ring of the surface gate lit up like a beacon through the haze giving the game away as it began to come online.]

[Best pushing at Crystal shouted out.] “Stay down.” [He then yelled out to his forces.] “Secure the gate.”

[In the noise and confusion, I am not sure anyone even heard him. Harbinger had rigged more explosions to follow the first set these later devices mostly just made flashes and bangs but they helped keep the majority of the ‘Omertas’ heads firmly down.]

[We came at our targets from behind building speed we bundled them both up like a couple of ‘Omerta’ children’s dolls as we sped past straight for the as yet inactive gate aperture.]

[Jerked by our unexpected hoist Bests gun discharged erratically into the room. Crystal screamed out in terror.]

[Thin but strong wire like tentacles erupted to wrap their arms to their sides. Best somehow despite wearing a powerful personal shield contrived to vaporise his own right foot and lower leg as he was still hold down the trigger on full repeat. He yelled out his agony to add to the other shouts and screams.]

[We halted in front of the gate for an instant - wondering had it all gone wrong - then it flared into a blue swirl and we gladly leapt through. On the other side, blurring past ranks of waiting Acolyte Marines Harbinger’s Avatar came to rest under a stasis field emitter that automatically activated holding the Suit and its twin captives immobile in time.]

[As our thread leapt to a new onboard Avatar, in the cargo hold our Marines charged through the gate immediately laying down a blanket of suppressing fire. One second later, we opened communications with Damascus and the Trojan authorities.]

[We did not bother with a preamble we sent a comprehensive data blast delineating the entire situation and requesting immediate additional support.]

[To our surprise and delight, we needed no help. Before the ‘Omerta’ Soldiers could be organised and dispatched, the crisis was just about over. On the other side of the gate with their Leader and Crystal in our custody, the bulk of the ‘Dark Son’ commenced to capitulate as word spread. It appeared only a small number of those remaining were dedicated terrorists the rest refusing to die for a lost unprofitable cause readily turned on their commanders and enthusiastically handed them over.]

[We had managed to come through the endeavour as heroes rather than villains. I sensed more receptions beckoning but my ‘Hull’ was done with that I once more requested to leave.]

[Granted permission by my Captain and the ‘Omerta’ less than one hour later I jumped out leaving part of Harbinger and a part of myself behind in Avatars.]



[Location: Shroud Suit designated as Avatar Beta Seven’, Many Truths, Dark Coordinate, Tier II Space, Inner Systems, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 03:15.][Date 13.02.04SA (Second Accord) 9th PA 13.02.01.]

“Happy?” [Harbinger sends to me.]

“Ecstatic.” [I send in reply.]

[My Captain was on the Bridge (at least Avatar Beta Seven was) and right now that was good enough for me.]

“Where are we going Captain?” [I send.]

“Back to our mining concern here, then we are heading back to ‘Core Alliance Space’ for a reunion.” [Harbinger sends.]

“We are going home.” [I send.]

“Avatar Beta One can deal with the ‘Omerta’ and Stage II Space from here on in. With the Trojan’s help, we can set up an ‘MTC’ covert smuggling operation that avoids any contact with the Patrol Bases scrutiny. You are right I do not want to risk you with this stuff and I have no need to do so now we have access to hidden jump points.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I see, why are we returning to the ‘Gracious Field’ first?” [I send.]

“To make sure matters are squared away with our benefactor Gracious. I would not want that Paradox Priest to report us to the authorities here as thieves who stole his property. I am sure I can convince him to join us in a much wider sense. Gracious is merit light and we will need some - legitimate - partners here not just criminal associates.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I see.” [I send.]

“You sound a little disappointed.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I had hoped you would change your mind about this idea.” [I send.]

“Actually the more I think about it the better a little shady business here seems to me. We need somewhere to hide our burgeoning ‘Core Alliance’ military assets - before they begin to draw too much attention back home - Tier II Space is ideal for that. Also by working with the ‘Omerta’ I can keep my eyes on those Trojan and perhaps find out things they would otherwise keep hidden from us.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You are becoming a real schemer Harbinger I do not know whether I should be saddened or impressed.” [I send.]

“We all do what we must ‘MT’. I never ever imagined my future would be anything even remotely like this - perhaps if I had - I would have preferred to remain a simple Acolyte.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Somehow I doubt that very much.” [I send in reply.]

“You may be right; waging our secret war has its compensations.” [Harbinger sends.]

[As ever, I could sense the thrill my Captain got when he was using his virtual bridge. He punched in the new coordinates and we jumped again.]



[Location: Secure Command Core, MTC Headquarters, Green Orb Alpha, Core Alliance Space, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 01:50.][Date 13.02.04SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 13.02.01.]

[Having returned to the SCC we were all waiting on the Leader of the Cadre to give us his opinion regarding the newly uncovered ‘Three Hundred’ cloning facilities. Unfortunately, Happenstance was being very quiet and the tension was beginning to mount. It was proving to be a stress-laden day.]

[Harbinger unlike the rest of the Paradox was keeping himself busy with a little family business. My Captain was surrounded by a storm of virtual menus buying, selling, stocking up his new ‘Jump Master’ vessels and ordering other assets around remotely.]

[Such direct intervention in the daily running of the family business was not really required anymore: in fact, I was sure a host of Acolytes at the sharp end were staring at incoming messages in bewilderment perhaps even mild despair.]

[Unlike his studious children Harbinger could freely make choices based upon whim as he alone wasn‘t responsible to anybody else (at least nobody that had any authority to critique his choices within his ‘Many Truths Corporation’).]

[Unholy once again circled around Harbinger’s secure bunker - clearly - he was far less relaxed than his old friend was.]

“I suppose Happenstance would have to be typically thorough.” [Unholy commented bitterly.]

[My Captain ignored the comment still lost among his Empire of assets.]

“An understatement if I ever heard one esteemed Elder considering the volume of data the Cadre Leader had me ship.” [Fortunate replied.]

“Fortunate there is no need for that, just call me Unholy. I thought we had discussed this before I have known you through your father far longer than I care to recall. Besides unlike the mighty Elder Priest Harbinger over there my wisdom has not been officially recognised by anyone.” [Unholy said.]

“That is because you have no wisdom to extol.” [Boisterous said glowing yellow.]

“As you wish Priest Unholy.” [Fortunate said ignoring the other Priest’s joke.]

“Just Unholy will do well enough.” [Unholy replied.]

“What is with all the titles anyway?” [Unholy asked the Acolyte.]

“Leave him alone. It is not Harbinger’s Acolytes fault that Happenstance likes to take his time. Fortunate is just striving to be polite I believe it is part of a penance that he gave himself.” [Boisterous explained.]

“A penance I hope it was for doing something suitably wicked.” [Unholy said with a crude speaker laugh.]

“I believe young Fortunate here considers it his fault that Harbinger believed he wished to split from their family.” [Boisterous explained.]

“You are doing a penance for that. That is plain stupid and your father permits this nonsense?” [Unholy asked.]

“Unholy I mean no disrespect but this is family business and a private matter.“ [Fortunate said.]

“That makes it no less silly.” [Unholy commented.]

“It is not silly, I disgraced myself and must make amends.” [Fortunate said.]

“If vowing to be extra polite and accommodating for three months makes him happy what has that got to do with you.” [Boisterous said.]

“Well its not the way I operated my family.” [Unholy said.]

“Getting your Acolytes drunk and wrestling them into submission is not the best solution to every ill.” [Boisterous said.]

“It worked well enough for me.” [Unholy said.]

“I believe Harbinger still has a family while you…” [Boisterous trailed off suddenly going dull with embarrassment and shock at his own words.]

[Unholy stood very still.]

[Boisterous looked over at his Cadre War Master.]

“Forgive me; you know I didn’t mean that.” [Boisterous said.]

“No you are right who am I to give anyone advice about their family.” [Unholy said slumping slightly.]

“Damn it Unholy that comment came out all wrong and you know it did.” [Boisterous said.]

“Forget it, I am not an oversensitive Acolyte.” [Unholy said straightening up.]

[Fortunate glared over at Unholy.]

“See, now you have me doing it. Just a figure of speech Fortunate it was not directed at you in any manner whatsoever.” [Unholy said.]

“Perhaps we should all just meditate in silence for a while.” [Boisterous suggested.]

“What about the surveillance operation?” [Unholy asked.]

“If anything interesting happens Fortunate can let us know. Harbinger has it all under control as you know we are mostly here just to present another perspective on the data to avoid any onset of tunnel vision.” [Boisterous said.]

“No new data to argue over then?” [Unholy asked.]

“The sites we have verified so far are just more of the same. In fact the setups are almost identical you could almost say Draakhaal cloned his cloning facilities.” [Boisterous said glowing yellow.]

“So even our Arch Chancellor occasionally gets lazy or he was in a rush and so employed a single template for his minions to follow.” [Unholy said.]

“That would be two explanations but I would not be inclined to buy either if that is what you are selling.” [Happenstance said.]

[Unholy spun around.]

“Please do not do that.” [Unholy said.]

“Do what?” [Happenstance replied but he was glowing yellow.]

“Warp in unannounced.” [Unholy said.]

“No one warps in here unannounced.” [Happenstance said.]

“That is entirely correct.” [Harbinger replied.]

“So you are with us again.” [Boisterous said.]

“Well Happenstance what do you think?” [Harbinger asked.]

“It is a trap - pure and simple - the facilities are far too alike Draakhaal is more creative than that. Also look at their locations and look again at the list of items they have been shipping into these sites.” [Happenstance said.]

“We know all about the facilities self destruct mechanisms.” [Harbinger said.]

“Maybe you do but did you really consider the size of the explosions these quantities indicate or the political ramifications if those facilities blow up because of an operation that we mount. All are nestled within busy heavily trafficked densely populated areas.” [Happenstance said.]

“We know that as well it is a typical ‘Stellar’ use of living shields.” [Harbinger said.]

“Yet you still want to go ahead with an assault?” [Happenstance asked.]

“We can hardly just sit around and let him go into Stage III production.” [Unholy said.]

“I am not sure that is even his plan. Draakhaal wanted you to find these sites Harbinger - I have no doubt about that - otherwise they would not be so alike it is the only sensible conclusion. Even the number is a mockery to stir your blood.” [Happenstance said.]

“What are you saying that Draakhaal has built three hundred factories as a mere ploy.” [Unholy said.]

“Given the might of the Arch Chancellor’s assets as the Overlord of the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ in everything but name the creation of these factories is not such a massive undertaking. It is a lure and I cannot permit the Cadre to charge into it.” [Happenstance said.]

“Harbinger.” [Unholy said.]

[My Captain looked at his friends one at a time and bowed a little.]

“I think Happenstance is right I should have seen it I have been blind in one eye. I have let my enthusiasm get the better of me.” [Harbinger said.]

“Beware hate Harbinger it taints the judgement of the wise no less than the fool.” [Happenstance said.]

“I don’t understand Happenstance are you suggesting these factories are dummy facilities does that mean Draakhaal must have other factories elsewhere perhaps outside of the ‘Core Alliance’ altogether?” [Boisterous asked.]

“I do not know. I prefer just to deal with the facts as such are presented to me. I have my particular purlieu of expertise more creative endeavours I leave to others. However I will advise you all this much speculating about what Draakhaal is doing has proven to be a very dangerous business in the past that is historic fact.” [Happenstance warned.]

“Nonetheless we have little choice but to speculate.” [Harbinger said.]

“Could it be a double bluff maybe he just wants us to think these facilities are not for real.” [Unholy said.]

“Let it go Unholy wishful thinking will not change reality.” [Harbinger said.]

“So were all our recent efforts for nothing? Was it all a lie? Those Professors you tracked - everything - all of it lies?” [Unholy asked.]

“Perhaps all of it is lies but it was not wasted effort it is all good intelligence. You have uncovered a trap and you are a little further along in your ambitions.” [Happenstance said.]

“If the ‘Three Hundred’ are a lie he is trying to sell us we have to ask ourselves why? What is he covering up that requires such an outsize and elaborate scam?” [Harbinger said.]

“I would guess he simply wants to make us into the villains again. To ruin the reputation of the Cadre altogether to turn the populace at large against his principle opponents.” [Unholy states.]

“That makes sense.” [Boisterous agreed.]

“Without doubt that would be a great asset to our foe but this particular methodology I think has greater purpose than that. To me it all comes back to the idea that he wants us to believe that we have foiled Stage III. Why does he need us to believe that?” [Harbinger said.]

“I will go now Harbinger you have my report like I said I have no interest in creative discussions with your permission I will warp out.” [Happenstance said.]

“I am opening a window in my interference lattice now.” [Harbinger sends.]

[Happenstance warped away with a swirling wormhole shimmer.]

“Father if I may be so bold to go to such trouble suggests to me that Draakhaal is worried. Somehow he must perceive that his dream is under a serious threat it must be vulnerable else why bother.” [Fortunate said.]

“Your Acolyte is right. Why is Draakhaal so desperate to sell us the lie that Stage III is dead and all this must have been set up as a contingency plan of some sort. Whatever has convinced him to show us these facilities now via these professors it is nothing new.” [Boisterous said.]

“It has to be linked to fears about the meld the fact that someone might discover the truth about the alien DNA as the ‘Stellar Court’ did.” [Harbinger said.]

“You know that bothers me. I did a bit of studying to better understand the concept. Now I still know nothing compared to a geneticist but even I soon realised something is very odd with the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’. Melds can be detected in various ways one of the most obvious and easy signs is extra material - unused instruction sets - that are left over from the other entities DNA not needed in the splice. Now there is no need to leave these leftovers behind unless you are being very sloppy, they can simply be clipped away. So why has ‘Void Skimmer’ DNA according to Wilful Spirit got lots of spare material.” [Boisterous said.]

“Are you saying you think the alien meld is also a lie? Why would Draakhaal fake a meld? Why would he want to enrage his people against him it makes no sense. None of this makes any sense. What about all this talk of Stage III being on the cusp of development? What about these tales of Stage III with the Zombie Fleet?” [Unholy said.]

“Maybe we should use simple reverse psychology turn it all around if Draakhaal wants us to believe he needs cloning facilities then maybe he does not. If Draakhaal wants us to believe Stage III is ready to go maybe it is not. Still the extra DNA information still confounds me.” [Boisterous said.]

“Maybe he does not require cloning facilities that is…” [Harbinger began then trailed off.]

[I could sense the ‘Facilitator’ firing into action making link upon link boosting my Captain’s and my minds as it stormed through an astounding catalogue of data.]

“…I think, I think…” [Harbinger said.]

“You think what?” [Unholy asked.]

[Linked via Exogenous communications to a multitude of tiny partial memory fragments across a huge network of minds including my own two simple sentences coalesced into being along with a complicated chemical formulae.]

“I have the answer, I know what I discovered in Draakhaal’s mind and hid from myself.” [Harbinger said.]

“Really are you sure?” [Unholy replied sounding more than a little sceptical.]

“Really I know what is going on and why I even distrusted myself with this truth.” [Harbinger stated.]

“Well are you going to share this revelation or not?” [Boisterous asked.]

[Everyone looked at my Captain expectantly.]

“I need a moment to think - this changes everything. We might have to spring that trap no matter what the cost is in souls, material, or political ill will. You may have to help me to convince Happenstance it is necessary. Any surviving Draakhaal clone must not know I harvested this secret from him - this cloning facility nonsense was I imagine created to fool his own people - but it also doubles as a fine test of my ignorance. If he suspects I know the truth it could be a monumental disaster. I wonder have I rediscovered the truth too soon or just at the right time.” [Harbinger said.]

“What are you talking about?” [Unholy said.]

“If I tell you, know I may have to wipe it again from your memory before you leave this room. Will you all agree to that?” [Harbinger asked.]

“I suppose if I must.” [Unholy replied.]

“What about the rest of you.” [Harbinger said.]

“Like Unholy said if I must.” [Boisterous agreed.]

“You do not even have to ask me Father.” [Fortunate replied.]

“I have not been blind in one eye we have all been blind in all three of our eyes. To say the truth was out in the open is an understatement. How could we all be this stupid? Then again, this is not the first time Draakhaal flaunted his workings in our faces while misdirecting us every step of the way and that is exactly why we refused to register it, such a thing was just too obvious.” [Harbinger said.]

“Harbinger please will you just tell us what you think you know.” [Unholy said.]

“No this is too important for that I want you to take a moment to think about how momentous this is. If ever we need future proof that we perceive our Universe not with our eyes but with our minds - this story - when put into scripture will illuminate that truism for all time. The truth of Stage III has been with us for a long time…” [Harbinger began.]

[Despite the preamble, all it took in the end was two simple sentences and a formula to wash Draakhaal’s deception away from our friends’ eyes.]



[Location: Avatar designated Alpha Five, Hierophant Cad’s Retreat, Trojan Spire, Trinity Harbour, Green Orb Alpha, Core Alliance Space, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 03:00.][Date 13.02.04SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 13.02.01.]

“A long day Harbinger but you have to admit, my son Trend is good at what he does.” [Cad said with an air of pride.]

“Your family are a credit to you and though it pains me to admit it they are also a credit to the craft of that idiot Wilful Spirit.” [Harbinger replied.]

“You should speak to your Geneticist friend he is hiding from you over that whole ‘Council of Equals’ affair. You know in all likelihood Composure manipulated him into proposing the idea of that slander campaign in the first place. When it comes to manipulation Wilful is not in the same Paradox wrestling league as Composure.” [Cad said.]

“The fool, does he really think I bear him a grudge over that?” [Harbinger asked.]

“He never expected Composure to go so far he thinks it is his fault that your old Mentor was exiled. I have tried talking to him but he refuses to listen. Wilful thinks as a Trojan I have failed to grasp the nature and depth of his Paradox crime.” [Cad replied.]

“I will have a word with him.” [Harbinger promised.]

“Somewhere public and without those guards or via Exogenous or he will likely run away.” [Cad said with a grin.]

“Is he still happy tinkering in your genetics laboratories?” [Harbinger asked.]

“He is I think my family have corrupted him. If I have become half a Paradox Priest he has become half a Trojan Professor he is very popular with the other Hierophants.” [Cad said.]

“Some people flourish outside their natural environs they enjoy being unique.” [Harbinger stated.]

“So are you happy now that you have a date for your first public appearance to demonstrate your new working concord with Draakhaal?” [Cad asked.]

“Happy would be inappropriate it is a necessary evil undertaken to prevent the ‘Sleeper Conglomerate’ from gaining a monopoly on the richest raw resources in known space.” [Harbinger said.]

“Yes that would have to be the unofficial official line. It must be a reluctant alliance of convenience.” [Cad said.]

“Like a great many others in the ‘Core Alliance’ I have always submitted to the necessities of the greater good.” [Harbinger replied with a yellow glow.]

“We all play our roles even Draakhaal. I could almost feel sorry for the Arch Chancellor. In his own twisted way our enemy would also serve civilisation and life (at least as we so dimly perceive that particular miracle).” [Cad said.]

“There can be no peaceful coexistence with his Stage III.” [Harbinger replied emphatically.]

“I know I would be unsurprised if even their maker failed to control them, once loosed Stage III would be a deadly weed species spreading out of control.” [Cad said.]

“You have no idea Cad. I hope I never grow as blind as Draakhaal. Was that a gardener’s metaphor old friend?” [Harbinger asked.]

“I am cultivating a deep appreciation of plants - they do not talk back.” [Cad stated.]

“You truly are half a Paradox Priest friend, give it enough time and you will need a meditation chamber to occasionally escape from your family’s demands altogether.” [Harbinger said.]

“I suppose I already have one in this Retreat.” [Cad sends.]

“I suppose you do, any regrets?” [Harbinger sends.]

“About the family - few - I did not realise how alone I had become, how cut off and closed down. In a way meeting people like you helped to save me from that. I am forever in your debt.” [Cad said.]

“I am sure you are - after all you got the better side of the deal - ever since I met you I have had nothing but troubles.” [Harbinger replied glowing yellow.]

“What about those ‘Cloning Facilities’ Harbinger?” [Cad sends.]

“For the moment we have them under surveillance we have decided to watch and wait.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You are still looking for the active Draakhaal be he a clone or the original?” [Cad sends.]

“We are following a lot of leads about a lot of matters in relation to Draakhaal.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You are becoming very circumspect Harbinger.” [Cad sends.]

“I am afraid that is just a product of the times we live in. I believe you can be just as careful when it suits you.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Have I done something that is bothering you Harbinger?” [Cad sends.]

“No I suppose everyone is entitled to have a few secrets.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You know I am your friend Harbinger if I thought telling you everything I know would be a good thing I would gladly do so and feel greatly relieved.” [Cad sends.]

“I feel exactly the same way.” [Harbinger sends in reply.]

“It is sad but I know no other way.” [Cad sends.]

“Neither do I we Paradox hoard our secrets as well.” [Harbinger sends in confession.]

“About the bomb threat at my Headquarters…” [Harbinger sends.]

“What about it?” [Cad asked.]

“My people have recently uncovered smuggled in robotic devices. They planned to use small fully mechanical remote drones to build their bombs thus avoiding detection by my internal bio sensors.” [Harbinger sends.]

“That is a rather clever ruse I will have to adjust my own security measures to cover that methodology.” [Cad sends.]

“That was why I informed you.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Have you discovered who is behind the plot yet?” [Cad sends.]

“Not yet and to be honest given the way it was done we have little evidence to work with. All the components and equipment even the drones appear to have been constructed in a clean room then their outer surfaces show evidence of being further decontaminated as well.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Somebody is covering their tracks and taking no chances at all.” [Cad sends.]

“I suppose there may be a clue in that.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You have a lot of potential enemies Harbinger.” [Cad said.]

“I know it is even possible that some members of my own people do not trust me following Composure’s overt manipulations.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You think a Paradox could be behind the bomb?” [Cad asked.]

“It was an unexpected possibility raised by my security staff my family has some Paradox Corporate rivals and then there is questions of opposing doctrine and my links to Composure.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I am sorry to hear that Harbinger just be careful not to become paranoid about betrayal that is a disease that often inflicts the powerful that can lead to the onset of madness.” [Cad sends.]

“That is a deadly truth Hierophant Cad. I imagine if it were not for the paranoia of the Sleepers their might be no ‘Fringe War’. If it were not for the paranoia of Draakhaal there would be no need for Stage III and we could all relax.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Perhaps without our paranoia about the ‘Stellar’ there would have been no ‘Surface War’.” [Cad sends.]

“That is something I have worried about on occasion. Maybe all our interventions were not needed maybe we caused as many difficulties as we ever fixed.” [Harbinger sends.]

“In the end the role of individuals in relation to wider history is for others to decide and argue over rarely the participants themselves.” [Cad sends.]

“Still to every rule there are exceptions Cad.” [Harbinger sends.]

[Paranoid66]

[[FOURTEEN]]


[Location: Public Forum Five, Parliamentary District Alpha One, Green Orb Alpha, Core Alliance Space, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 10:30.][Date 14.02.04SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 14.02.01.]

[Harbinger was standing on a stage at one of a pair of twin lecterns. Behind my Captain: a few Paradox Priests, some Acolyte Marines and a score of ‘Stellar Court’ members guarded by ‘Void Skimmer’ Soldiers mingled together rather stiffly.]

[To my Captain’s side the puppet clone Draakhaal stood in front of his own lectern. All around the dignitaries and their entourage a heavy security shield dome glistened. The protection slightly magnifying and distorting the image of those within its confines.]

[There was a substantial wider security presence as well made up of Paradox and ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ forces deployed at various positions beyond the stage and outside the shield dome. Parliamentary Police also wandered through the crowd their job (in this instance) the maintenance of - civilised - good public order.]

[Draakhaal’s speeches had a habit of becoming riots especially when he brought a mass of his own followers along to clash with the usual protestors. Luckily, today the Arch Chancellor only had a few adherents present. Nonetheless, even as a minority the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ being grotesque nightmarish chimeras with insect, reptile and squid like parts could still be intimidating.]

[Harbinger glowed yellow. It was rare to see the ‘Void Skimmers’ surrounded here in the ‘Core Alliance’. Draakhaal’s new species rarely left their own specific environs without a good reason, and due to a shockingly fast reproductive rate, their numbers had become dominant even over the original ‘Free Stellar’ colonists. Of course, many of the ‘Free Stellar Colonists’ had followed the Arch Chancellors example and become willing genetic converts thus Draakhaal’s vision was expanded via two methodologies unnaturally speedy reproduction and direct genetic reengineering. The Arch Chancellor would gladly claim every Stellar if he could ‘strength through unity’ was one of Draakhaal’s favourite sayings.]

[On this occasion, each of the monstrously altered Swimmer creatures that appeared at this venue had arrived by accident not Draakhaal’s design. Nonetheless, in this high profile region with its expensive fixtures and fittings no one was willing to take any chances. It was best to be on guard against some degree of violence around any ‘Void Skimmer’ if Stellar Swimmers were more violent than their ‘Sea’ Dweller cousins the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ species were another level of aggression beyond that.]

[I noted how the military personnel avidly watched everyone. Our security was suspicious not just of the gathered throng but also the surrounding buildings. This part of the Parliament’s interlocking arcing habitat domes held many towering structures: business, administrative and diplomatic premises. The guard’s alertness was not without reason. Recently both Harbinger and Draakhaal had suffered death threats for divergent reasons.]

[The nearest structures had all been scanned and a few buildings had even been occupied by still more security forces. Simply policing this short but high profile event was costing a small fortune in credits.]

“Never say never.” [Harbinger sends to me.]

[With a mental command, a ‘Core Alliance’ fanfare rang out over concealed public address speakers eliciting a degree of relative if imperfect silence from the expectant crowd.]

[My Captain’s prime Tri-optic sensor rose up to better view his audience. The gathering primarily consisted of politically active individuals, members of the media and curious passers by (tourists) drawn in by the formers congregation including the few ‘Stellar Draakhaal’.]

“Welcome friends, I am delighted to see such a large turn out at such short notice. I promise for once to keep my own speech both brief and to the point. I have agreed to speak first then the Arch Chancellor Draakhaal will take over. I would ask that you refrain from questioning us until after we have both made our concise statements. May you all know the three blessings of the Emissary and have a clear vision to guide you.” [Harbinger said glowing yellow.]

[Once more, my Captain surveyed his audience zooming in to identify a few of the usual suspects including a detachment of no doubt unemployed Cadre toughs looking for a little trouble. Among them Harbinger spotted the Kanji of ‘Last to fall’ a splitter ex member of Unholy Terror’s defunct Nine now a Mercenary warrior for hire.]

“Today in a bid to end the terrible tragedy of the often - illegally - prosecuted ‘Fringe War’, it has been agreed by the ‘Void Skimmer Stellar Court’ and the Paradox ‘Council of Equals’ that we will send out joint special envoys to both the ‘Free Stellar’ and the ‘Conglomerate Recyclers’. Substantial aids and resources shall bolster these envoy’s efforts. It is our intent to request that both parties undertake an immediate cease-fire and participate in a new round of peace talks. The facility of CA arbitration will be offered.” [Harbinger boldly announced.]

[Harbinger turned up the gain on a directional microphone.]

[Both appreciation and derision greeted my Captain’s initial words.]

“That monster Draakhaal has no interest in conflict resolution so what is it after now?” [One Surface Dweller asked an associate.]

“Access to ‘Fringe Space’ resources what else. The question we should be asking is why a Cadre War Master of Harbingers standing is willing to agree to participate in this fiasco?” [Another replied.]

“Do you trust that Paradox?” [A third Dweller asked.]

“Harbinger is no friend of Draakhaal.” [The first Surface Dweller stated.]

[Harbinger waited until the noise calmed down a little.]

“Good and noble friends, despite well documented historic differences ‘Draakhaal’ and I have come together unilaterally to face the challenges of this task because we fully expect this undertaking to be a difficult and dangerous one.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Every day precious lives are lost every day our trade and development continues to suffer an unnecessary slump. Further, this ‘Fringe Nation’ instability puts our societies wider security under a constant threat. As you may well be aware there has been a great deal of talk in the Parliament: We have had discussion upon discussion upon discussion about this ongoing crisis but little consensus has yet been reached and even less has been set in motion.” [Harbinger continued.]

[My Captain paused for a second to emphasise this last point.]

“Who here would deny this proposed service is required for the continued stability of our ‘Emissary Sphere’ and this ‘Core Alliance’? I would ask that all beings of good will give their blessing to our future negotiations.” [Harbinger said.]

“Elder Priest Harbinger…” [Began a shouted voice.]

“Why is…” [Commenced another person.]

“Please no interruptions Arch Chancellor Draakhaal will now speak.” [Harbinger said loudly and firmly.]

[Once again, the crowd became less than settled it was obvious the Arch Chancellor was not popular with the people here. In truth, it was common knowledge that Draakhaal was only beloved by his own race. Thankfully, ‘Void Skimmers’ tended towards an arrogant isolationism they generally cared little about day to day Parliamentary and cross species politics. Nonetheless, the Arch Chancellor had a reputation as a forceful orator when roused to speak.]

[Despite a few heckles Draakhaal stood a little straighter and looked calmly outward as if measuring the danger posed by the unsympathetic crowd and finding little challenge in it. To my sensors, the Arch Chancellor was both superior and aloof although I have to confess to a degree of prejudice.]

“Fellow citizens, now is the hour for action not words or inane insults.” [He said.]

[His unnaturally tailored synthesised voice sounded typically smooth and rich in its modulation.]

“We must move on this matter before the ‘Fringe War’ escalates any further and pulls us all unwittingly into another conflict that none of us should desire.” [Draakhaal said.]

“Like the ‘Surface War’.” [A Cadre member shouted angrily.]

“Exactly like the ‘Surface War’.” [Draakhaal retorted stealing the Paradox Priests words.]

“Many of my own peoples’ Clan Lords feel a dangerous obligation - a pull - towards the defence of the home sectors of old ‘Stellar Space’. The idea of alien dominion over our old territories is abhorrent to them. To do nothing is to invite a potential future disaster.” [Draakhaal stated.]

[In the crowd the ‘Void Skimmers’ ruffled their carapaces and displayed their spines in I guessed agreement.]

“It is you we need to guard against tyrant.” [Accused a yelled out voice.]

“Tyrant, tyrant…” [Others joined in although none beside the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ who began to make a nasty hissing noise.]

[Draakhaal’s own voice rose in volume to compete.]

“We have stood and watched this folly idly for far too long. Elder Priest Harbinger has helped to convince me that we must move and that it is only together that we dare intervene directly. We would not wish to send the wrong signals to each other and the ‘Fringe Nations’.” [Draakhaal stated.]

“This is not your decision to make.” [A Cadre member shouted.]

“As my friend Harbinger explained the gears of our Parliament have seized up in relation to this issue - luckily - there are alternatives to endless bureaucracy.” [Draakhaal said.]

“We don’t trust you.” [A Dweller yelled.]

[The Arch Chancellor paused to ruffle his carapace and display his spines and claws.]

“TRUST IS IRRELEVANT, already the war has drawn in agitators - disruptive outside forces - notably the ‘Splinter’ a race of Raiders and Pirates who have traditionally bedevilled all our transports regardless of their owners or pilots race or creed.” [Draakhaal said.]

“Worried about future competition?” [A Dweller shouted.]

“You should all be worried every member of the ‘Splinter’ species is a dedicated predator and thief. Historically they have murdered countless numbers of our citizens - without any sign of remorse - they believe only what they take from another has any worth. The ‘Splinter Raiders’ care nothing for the sanctity of life. To the ‘Splinter’ we are just ripe targets of opportunity.” [Draakhaal said.]

“The ‘Splinter’ species were a menace once but now they are a spent force.” [A Dweller shouted.]

“They were but now they are getting Inner System support and are embracing new tactics. In all their recent encounters with the ‘Conglomerate’, they have emerged victorious. The unexpected ‘Splinter’ pact appears to have saved the ‘Free Stellar’ from military collapse - for the moment however, we would do well to ponder the cost of this temporary stay of execution. Did you know the ‘Splinter’ species is now claiming territory outside their traditional jurisdiction? If we allow their expansion to continue, it will set a dangerous new precedent and could open the gate to unwanted migrations by these cruel warriors. These new immigrants bow to an Emperor and follow a dream of conquest and dominion.” [Draakhaal said.]

[Silence greeted this news.]

“Like stern but fair parents stepping between squabbling children - who need guidance - we must bring our neighbours and trading partners to their senses before it becomes too late. We must open their eyes before they loose a disaster upon themselves and us.” [Draakhaal said.]

“This is a mission I have decided the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ as a species must not fail. Despite our differences, we are still a part of this great ‘Core Alliance’. I know some here doubt our wider intent, due to my peoples overall objectives, we have had occasional political disagreements but that is of no moment when we are all put under an external threat. Those who fear our growth and dynamism should be celebrating it as we are on your side. I know my species is accused of being warlike yet we ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ have not started or engaged in any major conflict - actually it has been the opposite - think back it was I who very much helped to negotiate the peace with the ‘Free Stellar’ colonists.” [Draakhaal insisted.]

“You used them for your own ends.” [A Heckler accused.]

“They made their own choices as did any veterans who chose to participate in the ‘Surface War’.” [Draakhaal said.]

“The past is dead. If we are to progress in more than just material sciences we must agree to put our pain aside and stop nursing old grievances.” [Draakhaal stated.]

“I believe this endeavour may help in a small way to consign unwarranted prejudices to the past. This is an opportunity for all of us - once again - to strive together to construct a better - shared - future. We ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ can and do contribute greatly to the strength of this great union.” [Draakhaal said.]

“We have heard all this rhetoric before.” [Last to fall accused.]

“I consider it no arrogance when I say our ‘Alliance’ was born out of the ‘Stellar’ desire to colonise the neglected Surface of these glorious ‘Sea Spheres’ (the vast living organisms bequeathed to us by the ever mysterious ‘Departed’). It is too easy for you all to forget that: without our dynamic determination there would be no ‘Sea Sphere’ shield energy extraction to power and accelerate all the industry and development you see all around you today, in fact there would be no ‘Core Alliance’ to benefit from it either.” [Draakhaal said.]

[The Arch Chancellor spread two clawed arms wide.]

“Look at it friends. Think of all the miraculous progress made here never mind upon all the other ‘Sea Spheres’ outer surface areas. Do you remember how it was when we arrived upon the clean bare shield of ‘Green Orb Alpha’ with just our dream and a few AEL devices? Our colonisation was such a short time ago yet it is easy to forget that too. Why do you think that is? I will tell you why because we have achieved so much so quickly despite our adversities. Sometimes even I find it hard to believe in this miracle.” [Draakhaal said.]

“Consider the scientific and material benefits gathered from our usage of ‘Advanced Energy Leech’ power supplies. Consider our comfortable and luxurious standard of living. Before the ‘Fringe War’ brought this recession we had no unemployment. Now I know some veterans cannot get an - honest - job. I am proud to be a citizen of the ‘Core Alliance’ and a denizen of this wider ‘Emissary Sphere’ are you? None of us has any right to shirk our continuing obligation to one another; we all rise together or we fall apart. In that statement, I include the ‘Fringe Nations’. Our brave new future requires an endless stream of raw material for its construction.” [Draakhaal said.]

“Mistakes have been made in the past - I do not deny this I never have - but every day is an opportunity to learn better ways and we are slowly learning. Nonetheless, to be all that we can be we need full access to those raw materials: resources we gave into the care of others under the agreement that they would supply us with all our needs through honest trade. Now it seems those we unwisely trusted have lost sight of their responsibilities to the ‘Second Accord’ and us. In fact, the ‘Second Accord’ lies broken and disrespected. That must and will change.” [Draakhaal promised forcefully.]

“We will now take questions from members of the press.” [Harbinger said pointing to one individual waving an extruded suit arm.]

“Is it true that you are both considering the imposition of your own ‘Core Alliance’ naval forces to enforce a ceasefire? That this delegation will be backed up by a large military group in particular a vast number of ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ Void Master warships constituting a direct threat of violent intervention should the ‘Fringe Nations’ refuse to comply with your demands.” [Priest Seeker for Three Eyes on the Alliance.]

“If I may make the first comment on that.” [Harbinger said.]

[Draakhaal graciously bowed over.]

“As any learned scholar of the scriptures pertaining to the wisdom of the Emissary will tell you Priest Seeker: True peace is not something that can be enforced from without not even by a fleet of advanced warships. True peace arises from within. You cannot make or police a peace with weapons you can only enforce the rigours of the law. If the law continues to be broken, enforcement may follow but that is a question for Parliament. Ours will be a diplomatic endeavour not a police action.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I imagine your holy words aside Elder a large fleet especially a ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ Armada will be seen as a provocative threat by both the ‘Free Stellar’ and the ‘Conglomerate’ .” [Priest Seeker insisted.]

“We are not responsible for the evil in other peoples minds and hearts but we are responsible for our own citizens continued wellbeing. Be assured it is not our intent to bully but to persuade. I can only envisage our forces coming into play under the bequest of all the parties involved or to secure our own citizen’s safety if attacked. Please remember our envoys will be entering a very active war zone (even ignoring formal fighting these regions are rife with casual banditry undertaken by reckless opportunists).” [Harbinger explained.]

“Neither of you is denying a large military force will be dispatched with these envoys. Do you really think a few diplomats need a mighty Armada.” [Priest Seeker said.]

“A large force is entirely appropriate: Given the seriousness of our enterprise and to honour our hosts. The ‘Stellar’ way is to initiate a grand procession of military might. Besides as stated, we wish to ensure the aforementioned security of our citizens: Should an accident befall our outgoing envoys (due in part to our neglect to protect them) do you not think that could also have very serious consequences for future diplomatic relations with the ‘Fringe Nations’?” [Draakhaal stated.]

“You must understand every conflict gathers momentum and there will be people on all sides with a vested interest in maintaining hostilities. To avoid fighting we must demonstrate we have more than enough strength (that assaulting us would be shall we say ill advised). We therefore do indeed plan to openly dispatch an impressive fleet however its purpose as I have stipulated will be diplomatic not military. Unless we are attacked our guns will only be employed for brave salutes.” [Harbinger said pointing to another press member.]

“Will you both openly promise that there will be no provocative pre emptive use of force by these ‘Core Alliance’ units?” [Priest Sincere representing the Paradox News Network.]

“Of course we can. While my people retain the sovereign right to protect their own assets if attacked I agree with Priest Harbinger’s overall position on this issue in relation to military intervention. We cannot hope to win a peace through the application of violence or the threat of force but nor can we hope to be taken seriously if we look weak and non committal.” [Draakhaal said.]

“What we have is a wide range of largely non martial proposals that we wish to put before all the parties involved suggestions that could benefit everyone greatly. However you must all understand - lest we unwittingly prejudice our endeavours - we cannot discuss our full diplomatic strategy in detail at this time.” [Harbinger said pointing to another journalist.]

“When will this so-called peace mission depart and who exactly will head up this endeavour?” [Priest Principle - Emissary Sphere Today.]

“Very soon and a large number of diplomatic staff will be involved. We decided that those recruited to this process should remain largely anonymous and that the proceedings must remain regrettably for the moment a closed affair. Our efforts must not be seen as a political initiative undertaken to promote advantage here at home; personalities are irrelevant. We also feel it would be unfair to put these hard working citizens under the added pressure of press scrutiny when they already have such a difficult task ahead of them.” [Harbinger sends.]

“That is a highly unusual approach. If we do not know who is undertaking these negotiations how can they be held accountable to our citizenry for their actions abroad as our representatives?” [Priest Principle asked.]

“The negotiations will of course be monitored by a select committee of representatives of both the ‘Stellar Court’ and the ‘Council of Equals’. Ultimately those bodies will be responsible for any success or failure in the wider process.” [Harbinger stated nodding over to Draakhaal.]

[Draakhaal looked around and pointed at a Trojan member of the media.]

“Can you further explain why it is that this endeavour is not coming from the ‘Core Alliance’ Parliament? Why are you proposing a joint Paradox and ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ project? What about representation from the Hierophant Trojans and the Surface and Sea Dwellers why are they excluded?” [Hierophant Maxim - Trojan News Network.]

“This is a special initiative the Parliament has its own ongoing negotiations. No one who wishes to take part in this endeavour will be excluded. In truth we decided to undertake this venture in this manner because we believe it has become a time critical issue. Our Parliament given its broad responsibilities naturally tends to be cautious and to prevaricate over any deliberations of this magnitude and sensitivity (in part due to Swimmer sensitivities). In relation to the Trojan I believe Cad usually abstains from commenting on these matters because of his direct association with the ‘Interdiction Fleet’.” [Harbinger said.]

“Many will claim that by standing here today and sidestepping the Parliament in this partisan manner both you Elder Harbinger and the Arch Chancellor Draakhaal here are actually seeking to not just circumnavigate the Parliament but also to claim the entire credit for the outcome of this policy. Does this mean you will also take full personal responsibility if this rash enterprise goes disastrously wrong? Will you pay the price if this fleet you are sending out unilaterally ends up embroiled in a widening conflict of your making?” [Hierophant Maxim asked.]

“Our presence here together is just a symbol of an unusually close accommodation between our two species due to mutual self interest. It is a solid unity of purpose brought about by a set of rare circumstances nothing more or less than that. We are mere spokespersons of a policy embraced by the ‘Stellar Court’ and the ‘Council of Equals’ not its sole instigators.” [Draakhaal insisted.]

“In essence you are saying this is a temporary alliance of convenience between two great powers.” [Maxim said.]

“We both hope this will be the beginning of many more joint initiatives. It is a sad truth that - as is often the case with divergent species - it took the fear of an external crisis to help us better appreciate what we could do for each other and the ‘Core Alliance’.” [Draakhaal said.]

“This effort is an important development not just for ‘Fringe Space’ peace but also for greater accord here in our own domains at home. The Universe is not static and nor should we be. I…” [Harbinger began only to be rudely interrupted.]

[In quick succession three sniper bullets encased in a crystalline matrix passed straight through the outer security shield to enter Draakhaal. One hit him square in the forehead another arrived in his face the third penetrated just below his neck all three exploded upon impact to shower the stand and Harbinger in flesh, chitin, blood, bone and brains.]

[Screams and shouts rang out as what was left of the Arch Chancellor toppled backwards smouldering. Shock and pandemonium took hold as the majority of people present ducked for cover or fled away. Medics rushed to the fallen ‘Void Skimmer’ leader’s side but all they could do was pronounce the obvious that Draakhaal was most assuredly dead and beyond any hope of any medical intervention. As security personnel desperately sought out the sniper. My Captain instantly surrounded by Acolyte Marines warped to safety. Other important personages hastily followed his example.]

[Harbinger back at his ‘Secure Command Core’ watched and listened in to a broadcast.]

“This report comes to you direct from Public Forum Five where today just a few moments ago an era ended. Draakhaal the - some would argue infamous - Arch Chancellor of ‘Opal Prime’ and ‘Pearl’ the undisputed father and spiritual leader of the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ nation and noted signatory of the ‘First’ and ‘Second Accords’ has been pitilessly assassinated by an unknown gunman in front of a stunned audience of journalists including myself.” [Priest Principle yelled.]

“I repeat the Arch Chancellor Draakhaal is dead ironically murdered whilst announcing a new peace initiative aimed at the ‘Free Stellar’ and ‘Conglomerate Recycler’ nations. Was this an attempt to sabotage this bold new plan - will it succeed - only time will tell?” [Principle warned.]

“As the ‘Core Alliance Stellar Court’ calls for calm riot police are being warped into ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ prefectures many fear a bloody backlash of violence by the ‘Void Skimmers’ is imminent as soon as - perhaps even before - they have a legitimate target to blame for this outrageously open - political - assassination.” [Principle stated.]

“To recap today in the fourteenth day of the second month of the first year of the 9th Paradox Age a living legend has died. Draakhaal often known simply as the Arch Chancellor but actually the Patriarch of an entire species the ‘Stage II Stellar Draakhaal Void Skimmers’ was pronounced dead at 10:39 the victim of a cowardly sniper attack. As you can see from this (I must strenuously warn you) - disturbingly graphic - footage the assassin made sure of his target with three highly accurate explosive rounds fired in quick succession and delivered straight through the distortion of a 10GJ security shield. Shots I am told that required a considerable degree of skill or sophisticated electronic aids or most likely both.” [Principle shouted.]

“One moment I am receiving an update: An unconfirmed report, I am told, an armed suspect is engaged in a frantic gun battle with security forces after they closed in on his position and prevented his escape via warp inhibitors. Locals have detected gunfire and several small explosions. Please bear with me as I warp over to this latest crime scene.” [Principle stated.]

[For a moment the connection was lost.]

“You are watching the ‘Emissary Sphere Today’ live I am Priest Principle: as you can see there is smoke coming from the (I have been informed) Twenty-eighth story of the ‘Free Recycler’s Trade Guild Hall’ where it is now believed the alleged sniper responsible for murdering the Arch Chancellor Draakhaal undertook his deadly mission.” [Principle reported.]

“Apparently ballistic science routines using data extrapolated from sensor and camera data traced the trajectory of the shots almost instantly to the shooters location. The building was put under warp inhibitors and security inside and around the building informed.” [Principle explained.]

“As yet we do not know if the gunman is acting alone or operating with accomplices.” [Principle stated.]

[A fiery explosion blossomed out from the buildings side followed by a larger pall of smoke.]

“Holy Emissary, as you can see a great deal of damage is being inflicted upon the ‘Free Recycler’s Trade Guild’ in the Parliamentary District known as ‘Alpha One’. Inside one or more unknown terrorists are fighting ‘Stellar Draakhaal’, Paradox and no doubt given the location involved ‘Free Recycler’ security forces.” [Principle stated.]

“As yet there has been no official confirmation of any casualties. To recap once more for those who may have just joined us: A few moments ago, shooting from the ‘Free Recyclers Trade Guild’ a sniper murdered the Arch Chancellor Draakhaal. A battle is now raging to bring the culprit or culprits to justice.” [Principle continued.]

“A representative of the ‘Trade Guild’ has issued a hasty press release stating they regret the misuse of their premises in this tragic incident and trust that the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ appreciate that they too are victims of a crime and not in any way the perpetrators.” [Principle stated.]

“Obviously our ‘Free Recycler’ friends are concerned about rash acts of retaliation by enraged ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ citizens. I imagine the conspiracy theorists are already at work filling the interlink with wild nonsense but here at EST we bring you only the facts.” [Principle said.]

“The ‘Stellar Court’ is calling for restraint in a statement of their own, ‘at least,’ they say, ‘until those responsible have been properly verified’. They have stated they are, ‘shocked and in mourning at the loss of a Great Leader who never asked for anything more from his people than that they should strive to constantly better themselves in mind and body’.” [Principle stated.]

“Praise there from the ‘Void Skimmer Stellar Court’ for their deceased mentor: The father of their race brutally murdered today at 10:39 by an unknown assailant who so far is believed to be holding out inside the ‘Free Recycler’s Trade Guild Hall’. Surely the villain or villains responsible cannot hope to survive much longer as more and more military assets arrive to storm the building.” [Principle repeated.]

“As you can see as well as teams entering from the ground floor entrance others are arriving on the roof using rarely seen ‘Core Alliance Troop Transport Drop Ships’. Wormhole warp transit is not available at the moment as the entire building has been put under potent inhibitor emitters to prevent any chance of the felon escaping.” [Principle explained.]

“Our news analysts back at our headquarters are convinced the killer or killers will either be captured or killed momentarily. In fact, they believe the perpetrator or perpetrators must have known that such an attack in the heart of the ‘Core Alliance’ was a suicide mission. If our analysts are right it would seem the killer has decided not to die alone.” [Principle stated.]

“Surprisingly we are receiving I must stipulate an - unconfirmed report - from a source inside the building that the assailant is a Paradox housed in a military grade ‘Shroud Suit’ and that he entered the building much earlier pretending to be a member of Elder Priest Harbinger’s ‘MTC’ Marines. Rather ironically, he claimed to be undertaking a security inspection. The same source has also informed us that the shooter has taken several Recyclers hostage and is demanding the inhibitor emitters be turned off immediately or he will begin killing them one at a time.” [Principle said.]

“Unfortunately our source has just come under police censure and is unlikely to be revealing any more exclusives until after this immediate crisis is over. However, remember where you heard this news first it was here on EST and I am Priest Principle. A Paradox posing as an MTC Marine holding hostages in the ‘Free Recycler Guild Hall’ is now believed to be responsible for the assassination of the Arch Chancellor Draakhaal at 10:39 this morning CA standard time.” [Principle repeated.]

[Harbinger disconnected the almost cyclic news feed.]

“A Paradox assassin dressed as one of ours that will cause us a lot of trouble with the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’.” [I send.]

“You of all entities should know better than to judge the contents by its crate.” [Harbinger sends to me.]

“What do you mean by that?” [I send.]

“Arrange a meeting for me in person with the ‘Stellar Court’ until then I am going to my meditation chamber and do not wish to be disturbed.” [Harbinger sends.]



[Location: Secure Command Core, MTC Headquarters, Green Orb Alpha, Core Alliance Space, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 12:30.][Date 14.02.04SA (Second Accord) 9th PA 14.02.01.]

“I am glad that meeting is over with. I hate dealing with the ‘Stellar Court’. After what happened to Draakhaal, I plan to make that my final public meeting for a long time. From here on in they can just make do with Avatars it is hardly safe anymore.” [Harbinger said walking over towards Boisterous.]

[To my shock I realised I had no recollection of any such meeting having taken place. To my alarm, a large chunk of my memory was missing. No sophisticated edit was involved just a crude cascading deletion. Obviously, whatever had gone on at the ‘Stellar Court’ meeting was ultra secret.]

“How did it go?” [Boisterous asked.]

“They have decided to honour Draakhaal’s will. He shall not be reborn since any clone would just be a pale copy. It is his legacy not his person that must continue. The ‘Stellar Court’ have also agreed that our mission of peace must not be halted by this recent outrage especially now that the culprit has been proven to be a - misguided - ‘Conglomerate Recycler’ disguised in a fake Paradox ‘Shroud Suit’.” [Harbinger said.]

“So that late breaking information is not just rumour - it is fact.” [Boisterous sends.]

“The individual involved - obviously a crazed fanatic - had undergone physical surgery in order to fit inside a cunningly contrived ‘Suit’. Apparently the dummy device looked pretty convincing from the outside but was not formed from our biomechanical sciences at all and lacked most of our suits wondrous functionality.” [Harbinger explained.]

“They are positive he was ‘Conglomerate’.” [Boisterous said.]

“Judging by his implants that seems very likely. No memories were recoverable due to a typically sophisticated mind wipe - exactly what you might expect from a ‘Conglomerate Agent’ or citizen.” [Harbinger added.]

“He obviously planned to put the blame on you Harbinger taking out both Leaders with the economy of just one murder at the same time neutralising the alliance as a threat,” [Boisterous said.]

“I am sure this one thought he could initiate a new ‘Surface War’ this time between the Paradox and the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’. This assassination is a crude and ill-advised scheme without doubt (one unworthy of the ‘Sleeper Conglomerate’). Even the ‘Stellar Court’ agree it was most likely undertaken by somebody seeking the Sleepers favour rather than a plot instigated by those insidious bodiless creatures themselves.” [Harbinger said.]

“It sounds as if the digital Sleepers have been very lucky or perhaps this innocence is just what they would like us all to believe.” [Boisterous remarked.]

“With such devious beings you can never be entirely sure of anything but it just does not smell like a ‘Conglomerate’ plot to me.” [Harbinger said.]

“I am very surprised but very happy that Draakhaal will not be reborn.” [Boisterous remarked.]

“The Nobility and other Great Leaders among the ‘Stellar’ have traditionally lived just once. They believe it is the only way they can live life to the full, it is part of an old philosophy the concept being that: Existence only has value when counter balanced by oblivion just as light requires darkness to give it meaning. Since Draakhaal has died in front of so many witnesses there is no easy way for the ‘Stellar Court’ to secretly resurrect him without a diminishment of his essence a copy would make a poor leader.” [Harbinger replied.]

“I did not know Draakhaal ascribed to that primitive belief. I expected the ‘Stellar Court’ to claim the murdered creature was just a stand in put in place because of death threats.” [Boisterous said glowing yellow.]

“Luckily whether Draakhaal actually followed those limits or not a great many ‘Stellar’ still believe that nonsense. Draakhaal is no longer in charge and this way any new clones that might emerge to challenge the ‘Stellar Court’ including any misguided followers of such individuals will be branded as heretics and abominations. It will not go well with anyone who abuses the memory of the ‘Great Leader’ and his last wish: to rest in blessed peace without fear of a mere copy tarnishing his grand accomplishments so far.” [Harbinger said.]

“Very neat Harbinger, very neat indeed. I congratulate you on a job well done.” [Boisterous remarked hugging his friend.]

“I can hardly take the credit. Where exactly is Unholy?” [Harbinger asked.]

“Out celebrating Harbinger - we simply could not stop him - so I sent Fortunate along to keep three sober eyes on him.” [Boisterous stated.]

“You know this is not over yet.” [Harbinger said.]

“I know this is just the beginning. We still have to put an end to the future threat of Stage III via neutralising those cloning facilities and by destroying any active Draakhaal clone that might still be out there scheming.” [Boisterous stated.]

“Yes, putting an end to Stage III is imperative.” [Harbinger agreed.]

[My Captain hailed Unholy.]

“Harbinger you should join us we are having a party blam, blam, blam.” [Unholy sends.]

“Blam, blam, blam?” [Harbinger sends in puzzlement.]

“Sorry we have Draakhaal’s assassination playing on a loop here.” [Unholy sends.]

“Unholy that is sick who exactly are we.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Me and some of your off duty Marines. Do not worry there is no one in this particular Commissary other than family members and me of course.” [Unholy sends.]

“You are a corrupting influence.” [Harbinger sends.]

“If you cannot celebrate a historic victory what can you celebrate? I know what this means: Draakhaal can only operate now from the shadows. His own population will not only deny him they will actively hunt him down if they hear any hint of an unsanctioned Reborn. Even if the original is still out there, they will never believe he is anything but a liar. Further the ‘Void Skimmers’ will never forgive the ‘Sleeper Conglomerate’; given the sleightest excuse they will be heating up all their weapons and dispatching their fleet the cursed ‘Conglomerate’ will know this as well. I think the ‘One with the Core’ squad will capitulate and agree to your peace and the creation of a third better balanced Accord will follow.” [Unholy sends.]

“I admit I expected the usual standard denials of culpability from the Sleepers.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I think they know - right now - postulations of innocence would only further incite the ‘Void Skimmers’. This once their propaganda machine will benefit more by maintaining a dignified silence. What an amazing stroke of good fortune all this is. A rash assassination of Draakhaal committed by an overzealous devotee of the ‘Sleepers’ is almost too good to be true.” [Unholy sends.]

“For once the three fates appear to be on our side.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You should come down here Harbinger this is a turning point - I am sure it is - it should be toasted the blessings of the Emissary should be praised in joy lest we appear unappreciative. Let go of your reserve this is no time for it.” [Unholy sends.]

“I am not sure that would be politic.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Anywhere else I might agree but not here among your own family they deserve to see you relaxed and happy for a change. This has been a long journey.” [Unholy sends.]

“As I have warned others we have not arrived at our destination yet.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Captain, do you really think you can get away with this?” [I send belatedly horrified at the direct audacity of what my owner must have done.]

“Not even the ‘Free Recyclers’ can betray us since they agreed to have their own memories of our deal edited as part of our final settlement. Besides, I will push for the creation of a new region of ‘Free Recycler Space’ off bounds to the ‘Conglomerate’. Speaking of edits it is time to remove our own knowledge of the product of my deal with those Resistance Fighters from your and my recollection.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You want me to do another memory edit on us?” [I send very unhappy.]

“It is essential ‘MT’ I have gone too far to stop now.” [Harbinger sends.]

[I commenced the process but once again I hid and locked the edited data away for posterity I did not fully delete it.]

“Harbinger... Harbinger... let me guess you have been conferring with ‘MT’ again you really should live your own life for a change?” [Unholy sends.]

“This - is - my life.” [Harbinger replied.]

“So what will it be celebrate or hide away in that bunker of yours?” [Unholy sends.]

“Perhaps you are right such an unexpected providential occurrence is worthy of an exception to any rule of restraint.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Now you are talking old friend - unexpected providence - I like that.” [Unholy sends.]

“Well what else could you call it?” [Harbinger sends.]

[I wondered did Unholy think my Captain was somehow behind the Assassination of his enemy. I supposed it did seem rather convenient but not even Harbinger would dare to kill Draakhaal in front of the ‘Stellar Court’ twice.]

[A short timer later Harbinger warped over to the Gamma Commissary.]



[Location: Gamma Commissary, MTC Headquarters, Green Orb Alpha, Core Alliance Space, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 12:40.][Date 14.02.04SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 14.02.01.]

“Father is here.” [One off duty Marine shouted.]

[Instantly a hoard of loud well-wishers surrounded us hugging or just wanting to touch their mentors Suit as if seeking Harbinger’s benediction after he had performed a miraculous event.]

[One celebrator held out a spirit bucket to us.]

“I propose a toast to Draakhaal’s memory.” [Yelled out the drunken off duty Marine.]

“Draakhaal’s memory.” [They all shouted the room blazed with yellow light.]

[Unholy had clearly introduced some of Harbinger’s Marines to ‘Surface Dweller’ Legion habits.]

[Harbinger dropped a tube into the bucket and took a long draw even allowing the alcohol to have its full effect.]

“Give the Elder some space friends.” [Unholy roared out rolling over he easily barged his way through the mass. The crowd gave way despite being largely composed of veteran Acolyte fighters (judging by their ‘Suit’ displayed rank and name Kanji).]

“Unholy, you promised to keep your suit safeties on.” [Harbinger sends - though I could sense his growing amusement.]

[I guessed my Captain was using Exogenous to get a clean communication over the riot of noise.]

“You sounded sober just a moment ago.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Just a moment ago my safeties were on.” [Unholy sends in reply.]

“To every rule a glorious exception.” [Unholy screamed out aloud hoisting his own bucket to make a toast of his own.]

“I do not think he is as sodden as he would have us believe.” [I send.]

“This is just Unholy at play.” [Harbinger sends to me.]

“Glorious exceptions.” [Yelled out Unholy’s appreciative crowd joining his revels.]

“He has a way with ordinary people.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I am sorry Father. I tried and failed.” [Fortunate sends appearing at Unholy Terror’s side and slumping.]

“Forget it friend Fortunate you are only one Paradox. Lift up that Tri-optic and take a drink.” [Harbinger replied by Exogenous before passing the bucket along.]

[Fortunate complied.]

“Glorious days like this or ones of infamy depending on your point of view always need to be properly marked. The three fates demand their due dare to deny them and they may punish us for our hubris.” [Unholy shouted out.]

“Lift your buckets to the blessings of the ever mysterious three fates.” [Somebody shouted out turning that into a toast as well.]

[Unholy pulsed yellow.]



[Much later when the party was finally winding down…]

“Of course they all see this as - your - victory Harbinger. You (their Father) are still alive your and thus their enemy Draakhaal is not. If that combination of facts is not winning a conflict I do not know what is.” [Unholy said.]

“Yet I had nothing to do with this Draakhaal’s murder.” [Harbinger insisted.]

“Of course you did not - we Paradox do not hire assassins.” [Unholy said glowing yellow.]

“Unholy you will be earning me an undeserved reputation.” [Harbinger said.]

“Listen Harbinger I do not care if you bought that killer or not either way it is still your victory. In my estimation, a lucky commander is just as blessed as a skilled one. You ask any soldier who has faced death under the orders of another and they will tell you the same thing. You must know that.” [Unholy said.]

“One thing is certain this incident has put me off public appearances.” [Harbinger said.]

“Yes I suppose now that this blatant tactic has been used others may seek to copy its success. I would advise that you be careful out there. Still that is what you have all those Avatars for now I imagine. No doubt others will be using spokespersons for a while except in rare places like the ‘Council of Equals’ and the Parliament.” [Unholy advised.]

“Every victory comes at a cost no less than every defeat.” [Harbinger quoted from the scriptures.]

“That is solid sooth old friend. So what is the plan now?” [Unholy sends.]

“We still have a lot of work to do. Other Draakhaal’s will be out there and we have yet to secure this peace deal with the ‘Fringe’ also somehow we must safely decommission the ‘Three Hundred’.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I have been thinking about the latter. We should just pass what we know about the ‘Three Hundred’ along to the ‘Stellar Court’ let them deal with the Cloning Facilities and any political consequences.” [Unholy sends.]

“I made a deal.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Nothing that they can hold you to and the situation has changed. Without doubt Draakhaal is being steadily neutralised. I do not think the ‘Void Skimmer’ leadership can benefit from backing out of the secret and open alliances they have made with us now. They dare not push you too far Harbinger you know too much.” [Unholy sends.]

“I can no longer hold the threat of revealing the truth about Draakhaal over their heads anymore. Their puppet is dead and we have become more and more complicit in all their half-truths and lies about the Arch Chancellor. If the wider ‘Void Skimmer’ nation ever discovered the full truth we could be in as much trouble as the ‘Stellar Court’.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Harbinger we always could have been damned by these facts. I suspect if the ‘Void Skimmers’ knew even half of what we know it would be anarchy and war. Nonetheless, the ‘Stellar Court’ members (each one guilty of betraying their own) are in an even worse placed position than we are. They would never survive the truth of their crime of substitution. The ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ Clan Lords would be torn apart by the wrath of their subjects and they know it.” [Unholy sends.]

“We might survive but I dread to consider the cost of that victory.” [Harbinger sends.]

“A final confrontation would give us real closure.” [Unholy sends.]

“Please Unholy do not even jest about such a thing.” [Harbinger sends.]

“We could hit them with everything we have while they are disorganised and fighting amongst each other.” [Unholy sends.]

“Get that idea right out of your head. Do you not realise even thinking such a thing is dangerous? All we have to do is stop Stage III from coming to fruition and reform Stage II. Committing genocide is not a viable option for us I do not think it ever was.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Are you sure about that?” [Unholy sends.]

“Trust me; I have wrestled with the concept like a Paradox Champion of the Third Ring. I have even been tempted but I no longer believe it is a vector worth consideration. To be honest I doubt we could succeed in killing them all they would scatter and the survivors would return someday for vengeance having nursed their hatred. Besides listening to that - death speech - of Draakhaal’s made me think.” [Harbinger sends.]

“What that nonsense about there would be no ‘Core alliance’ without the ‘Void Skimmers’?” [Unholy sends.]

“That speech written in part by the ‘Stellar Court’ was not without merit in fact it rather touched me. It shows that they at least understand the concept and potential benefits of a mutually beneficial alliance.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I disagree; it is far too easy to say what you know others wish to hear.” [Unholy sends.]

“Every dawn brings a new day. I am willing to defer judgement on the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ for a while.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You watch them closely Elder Priest Harbinger. Do not be fooled by the fact that Stage III is even more extreme; that does not make Stage II any better than it ever was.” [Unholy sends.]

“I am well aware of that and I will be monitoring every move they make. As to you Unholy, you had best remember what Happenstance said about hate and blindness. We need to stay alert and open to every possibility or we could miss vital opportunities.” [Harbinger sends.]



[Location: Avatar designated Alpha Five, Hierophant Cad’s Retreat, Trojan Spire, Trinity Harbour, Green Orb Alpha, Core Alliance Space, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 14:04.][Date 14.02.04SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 14.02.01.]

[Cad and my Captain were watching live feeds despatched from the ‘Fringe Peace Armada’ rally point via members of Harbinger’s covert ‘MTC’ Observer Corp.]

“That is one ugly but very impressive looking Armada that the ‘Void Skimmers’ are massing - all those Battleships with Raw Energy Siphons.” [Hierophant Cad said.]

“I suspected they would go all out to show just how much hardware they can deploy. This is being done as much for our benefit as the ‘Fringe Nations’. I knew the ‘Stellar Court’ would be tempted to use this opportunity to fire a warning shot across our bow.” [Harbinger replied.]

“This is perilous Harbinger I do not want to be stuck in the middle of a major engagement if the ‘Void Skimmers’ decide at the last minute they have arrived to invade ‘Conglomerate Space’ rather than to broker a new peace deal.” [Hierophant said.]

“Relax Cad, I am hoping for a little trouble. That is why I have kept you and the ‘Interdiction Fleet’ out of this.” [Harbinger said.]

“Still thinking again I do not believe the Recyclers will dare to provoke this fleet not when they already have one stubborn opponent to deal with.” [Cad said.]

“I fully agree.” [Harbinger said.]

“However I also do not believe the ‘Stellar Court’ will want to be seen to be the aggressors either. They will not want to start a war on two fronts: away with the ‘Conglomerate’ and at home with us.” [Cad said.]

“On the surface you are correct Cad. This intimidating fleet is a necessity for the ‘Court’ from the point of view of the restitution of pride but starting a war would be ill advised. What they need is to show their people that they are strong and that such insult as (that for us fortunate) Assassination one way or another will not go unpunished.” [Harbinger said.]

“Yet for some reason you do not think they will be content with forcing a favourable peace deal?” [Cad asked.]

“Actually I think the ‘Court’ would be more than happy with that at the moment. In a way it will give them exactly what they want a foothold in ‘Fringe Space’ and the next best thing to direct access to its raw resources - at least the first draft does.” [Harbinger replied glowing yellow.]

“So what exactly are you up to and why are you expecting trouble?” [Cad asked.]

“I expect trouble because Draakhaal is also still in this mix. I am convinced he will somehow endeavour to stir up hostilities given this massive opportunity to unleash his pride and joy against the ‘Conglomerate’. Our foe would love to see his people making an early conquest in that direction.” [Harbinger said.]

“I am not so sure. Why would he want to do that now when his control over the ‘Void Skimmers’ is slipping a victory would just empower his rebellious ‘Stellar Court’?” [Cad asked.]

“Several reasons: To distract us from the real danger, to stir his people up onto a war footing, to test their tactics and weapons and to gain real physical control of those ‘Fringe Space’ raw resources when they trash the Recycler’s outmatched ‘Mercenary Fleet’. Despite how it often looks, Draakhaal is not after self-aggrandizement he is on a pilgrimage. He would delight in destroying the ‘Conglomerate’ who he has often allied with but I am sure secretly despises as likely opponents of his overall vision.” [Harbinger said.]

“What real danger would that be?” [Cad asked.]

“The potential emergence of Stage III of course.” [Harbinger said.]

“You are hoping the ‘Mercenary Navy’ and the ‘Void Skimmer’ armada will just weaken each other. You are taking a big risk with that.” [Cad said.]

“We shall see. The ‘Void Master’ Living Hulls look ugly and impressive enough - just as you said - but I have a feeling that Draakhaal has overestimated his forces abilities, especially against the ‘Conglomerate Recyclers’.” [Harbinger replied.]

“His fleets extensive use of main guns and the Recyclers secret adoption of ‘Tight Focused Ion Disrupters’.” [Cad said.]

“Exactly the ‘Artificially Generated Anomalous Energy Pulse’ main guns that Draakhaal is so inordinately proud of could be his fleets undoing.” [Harbinger replied.]

“His fleet has never really seen any action except against their own and outmatched pirates.” [Cad said.]

“I think if hostilities do ensue the ‘Void Skimmers’ may be in for a costly shock.” [Harbinger said.]

“I suppose if we do not play that card soon it will be lose its value; still I had always hoped the ‘Interdiction Fleet’ would teach the ‘Void Skimmers’ the flaw in their main gun weapon system.” [Cad said.]

“I decided it would be better to make use of this intelligence before it became too late; sooner or later AGAEP’s dirty little secret will be discovered.” [Cad noted.]

“Nonetheless I am not sure whether to hope you are right or wrong regarding Draakhaal finding some methodology to provoke a battle?” [Cad asked.]

“Well I am praying to the Emissary that he does. The ‘Void Skimmers’ military might needs culled and the Recyclers could do that for us, at the same time I still expect the Recyclers to take a pounding which will help our negotiations later.” [Harbinger said.]

“What about the Paradox fleet that will be with the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ what about your own ‘MTC’ assets?” [Hierophant asked.]

“My people should be able to look after themselves. I do not think Draakhaal wants to pick a fight with us - not right now. All we have to worry about is the Recyclers however, if the Mercenary Navy are crazy enough to also attack us our weapons have no drawbacks against them whatsoever.” [Harbinger said.]

“You are beginning to scare me Harbinger.” [Cad said.]

“I am beginning to scare myself.” [Harbinger confessed.]

“Still there are a lot of assumptions being made here.” [Cad said.]

“I know I have contingency plans in place - just in case - but I hope I will not have to use any of them. They would not be anywhere near as satisfying as watching Draakhaal shoot himself in the foot.” [Harbinger replied.]

“It appears Draakhaal has found an apt pupil.” [Cad said.]

“That is not funny Cad.” [Harbinger replied.]

“It was not meant to be.” [Cad warned.]



[Location: Secure Command Core, MTC Headquarters, Green Orb Alpha, Core Alliance Space, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 21:00.][Date 14.02.04SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 14.02.01.]

[Harbinger with Unholy had active live news feeds running in the background while they skimmed surprisingly manually through some historic data. I guessed Harbinger was worried that even an elder fetch routine might be traceable, although it was also possible that my Captain wanted to keep Unholy meaningfully occupied.]

“Here is another this one is dated one month ago.” [Unholy said.]

“A Personnel Jump Transport bound for ‘Loomuuduu’s Paradise’ from ‘Twin Stars’ missing presumed destroyed with just over two hundred and fifty ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ passengers onboard.” [Harbinger read aloud.]

“Wait I have a follow up story here. They eventually found some wreckage including trace biomass and a flight recorder. The record showed a sabotaged jump drive followed up by a Pirate attack that went wrong.” [Unholy said.]

“Very neat who investigated that one?” [Harbinger asked.]

“Somebody called Treegass but look at this he was under the supervision of our old friend Drasslaac there is definitely a pattern emerging here what is this about Harbinger?” [Unholy said.]

“Recruits, I suspected if Draakhaal was running some secret operations he might need some immediate recruits and since every citizen in the ‘Core Alliance’ is registered he would have to cover up his personnel acquisitions.” [Harbinger trailed off.]



[Location: Secure Command Core, MTC Headquarters, Green Orb Alpha, Core Alliance Space, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 23:06.][Date 14.02.04SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 14.02.01.]

“The assumption here is that they used some unknown form of exceptionally powerful EMP detonation we lost all our scout drones in the immediate vicinity.” [The Observer reported.]

“How did you respond to that loss?” [Harbinger sends.]

“We jumped more drones in. However the first wave was lost as soon as they arrived.” [The Acolyte explained.]

“What did the next wave uncover.” [Harbinger sends.]

“The remains of the patrolling ‘Mercenary Fleet’ as spinning wreckage among some deadly hot spots.” [The Observer reported via a sending.]

“You saw no ‘Splinter’ ships whatsoever?” [Harbinger sends.]

“Nothing Father not even evidence of a fighter drone on our gravity sensor. Admittedly, all the radiation out there made our job rather difficult. I am sorry, I have failed but we did manage to retrieve some samples of the wreckage eventually; after losing some more drones to the Anomalous emissions.” [The Observer sends.]

“Good forward that material on to our forensic laboratories and keep me appraised of any new developments out there.” [Harbinger sends.]

[Harbinger shared the news with Unholy.]

“I do not like the sound of that. What do you think?” [Unholy said.]

“I think the Splinter launched a devastating barrage direct from one of their Harbours that is what I think.” [Harbinger replied.]

“Such a cowardly fighting technique from the ‘Splinter’ would surprise me - that hardly is their style they are brave fighters.” [Unholy said.]

“I get the impression these ‘Splinter’ are more interested in winning now than obeying old customs of battle etiquette.” [Harbinger stated.]

“That is scary Harbinger. ‘Splinter’ Wormhole Harbours and I am guessing heavy ‘AM’ torpedoes and mines would make for a nasty combination.” [Unholy said.]

“I fear we may have underestimated the ‘Splinter’ because of the rigidity of their old warrior codes. I remember Cad telling me once that it was a good thing that the ‘Splinter’ species are by nature technologically conservative because Wormhole Harbours could be as dangerous as any ‘Stellar Orb’.” [Harbinger replied.]

“We will need a defence against that Harbinger. You had best speak with the Hierophants and pray they have or can develop a counter measure.” [Unholy said.]

“I guess that explains how ‘Splinter’ forces have begun to have so many victories.” [Harbinger said.]

“They have hardly suffered a single major defeat worth mentioning since they came under that new commander in that Mother ship you visited. Looking on the bright side these ‘Conglomerate’ losses should help motivate the Sleepers to make peace.” [Unholy replied.]

“I am beginning to wish the ‘Conglomerate’ had not so antagonised the ‘Splinter Raiders’ by trying to steal their Wormhole Harbour technology.” [Harbinger said.]

“I am glad they failed in that acquisition.” [Unholy said.]

“I have some bad news. I have just spoken with Cad he is refusing to help us with this one.” [Harbinger stated.]

“Why?” [Unholy asked.]

“He says releasing any counters to Wormhole Harbours would weaken his own security measures around the Stellar Orb.” [Harbinger said.]

“So against the ‘Splinter’ we are on our own.” [Unholy said.]

“We can still hope if we are pushed Cad will decide to intervene directly against the ‘Splinter’ using his own forces.” [Harbinger replied.]

“If I was you I would start asking him nicely.” [Unholy stated.]

“How dangerous the ‘Splinter Raiders’ new tactic is will depend on their warhead delivery systems. Remember what works well against the ‘Recyclers’ may fare less well against us: we still have our Living Hull Shockwaves for last second missile and torpedo defence.” [Harbinger said.]

“I suppose but in the confusion of a battle all it would take would be a too slow reaction. Besides Harbinger, how many salvos could we destroy before we run out of energy? A Wormhole Harbour could retain an awful lot of torpedoes and we would need to have dangerously loose formations to avoid friendly fire.” [Unholy said.]

“Now you are depressing me.” [Harbinger said.]

“I knew sooner or later those cursed ‘Splinter’ and Rii Roethynn would be trouble; please remind me I need to talk to Leeruu urgently.” [Harbinger sends to me.]

[Paranoid66]

Any comments? Did a small edit to fourteen sorry recent chapters have been coming out a bit untidy.

Also I was thinking the Stellar Draakhaal relationship to the Free Stellar Colonists needed clarified again in the story.

I imagine all the Swimmer factions may be getting a little confusing.

**********************************************************

To further clarify

Swimmer Sea Sphere Dwellers (Swimmer Dwellers) are a largely pacifistic species dwelling in the 'Sea Spheres' inner oceans. [Futuristic Boron]

Surface Dwellers are genetically altered (Robust Swimmer Dwellers) living on the 'Sea Spheres' outer surface in habitats they are adapted to not need dry suits: they can breathe either air or water.

Legion are Surface Dweller troops active during the Surface War.

Stellar Swimmers are more aggressive Swimmers who long ago sundered from the 'Sea Spheres' populace to live in Space Stations and on Space Ships they dream of a time when they can swim in space. They are clannish and territorial. (Once known as Swimmer Renegades).

Free Stellar Swimmer - generally means those who stayed in Stellar Space rather than migrating to the 'Core Alliance' or Stellar Colonists with strong links with the same.

Free Stellar Colonists (Stellar Swimmers who colonised the Sea Sphere surface area (originally not politically under Draakhaal's control)).

Stellar Draakhaal any and all Stellar Swimmer followers of Draakhaal's particular somewhat paranoid vision for the future.

Stage II Stellar Draakhaal Void Skimmers. Genetically altered followers of Draakhaal. These ones are capable of short eva's in space without any need for a vacuum suit.

Stage III Stellar Draakhaal [Theoretical next step in Stellar Draakhaal forced evolution. Creatures able to swim - live - directly in outer space.]

[Snowship]

Even though you partially explained it i'll take a quess and spoiler it...

Spoiler

Show

I'm gathering Stellar III's are just II's which require a DNA "switch-on" to evolve/convert/revert to stallar III's (ie the code dormant in their DNA awaiting a "trigger" )

That's the impression I got anyway

Sorry Paranoid, I was on holidays the last two weeks (and you split 12 after I'd read it so had to be back over it ) <- you always do that to me

I'm still feeling there'll be a breakdown/split between Harbringer & MT (just seems to be slowly heading that way [to me]. Both keeping secrets from eachother and starting to view things more and more differently).

Oh and eagerly awaiting how the Splinter part of the plot comes about (wouldn't higher tier splinters meddling in core affair cause an uproar amoungst the other higher tier races (paradox/trojan/swimmers etc)
Since they all try and do a "hands-off" approach.

Anyway, am enjoying it immensly.
Keep em coming

ps. Do you find it now separate threads of Harbringer (Core and II Tier) and avatars hard to juggle?

[Paranoid66]

Thanks for the comments Snowship.

I guess it was more or less given away. I just thought it would be nice to have the readers add 2 and 2 together rather than for me just to say 4.

I cheat I copy and paste from previous time stamps to keep control of which Avatar is where.

As a result I have to watch the time date closely and have had to fix a few errors via belated edits.

I confess there is a temptation with the Avatars to have - film noir - type flash backs but I have resisted. That would probably confuse everybody including me.

Luckily Harbinger's central conciousness knows everything all his threads know otherwise keeping track would be a major pain (vital new information that is esssential is also shared between theads as appropriate).

Still I am glad 'MT' is on his way back from Tier II.

What I find hard is keeping track of material including ideas that get cut long before posting. I am currently rereading the whole of the third book as I am getting worried that I will contradict myself big time by following something up that I actually ditched.

[Paranoid66]

[[FIFTEEN]]


[Location: Shroud Suit designated as Avatar Beta One’, Lobby, Seven Spires Hotel, Paradise City, Jinn Extents, Sanctuary Orb, Dark Coordinate, Tier II Space, Inner Systems, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 17:05.][Date 15.02.04SA (Second Accord) 9th PA 15.02.01.]

[Being able to see through the Trojans chameleon fields we automatically recognised our disguised friend.]

“Glad to see you could make it.” [Harbinger said.]

“Not as glad as I am.” [Damascus admitted glancing back at the main entrance as two ‘Omerta’ entered the hotel.]

[Harbinger and I escorted the venerable old Trojan to our room. Once inside I fixed Damascus, who was trembling a little, a drink to calm his nerves. He settled on a soft seat looking at the floor.]

[After his long interrogation Damascus looked both unwell and weary.]

[As I offered up the glass of Trojan Alcohol Damascus belatedly turned towards me. He gave a start then frowned while studying my kanji.]

[Harbinger moved closer.]

“This is my passenger and friend Paradox Priest Divergent Opinion. He is a xeno-anthropologist with a deep interest in other species cultures. You can trust him no less than you can trust me. This room is clean of listening devices and has been sound proofed as well. You can speak freely here. I believe they both killed and extracted your Exogenous Link.” [Harbinger said.]

“Not content with that violation they also put a blocker inside my skull so I can not install another.” [Damascus admitted touching his head.]

“May I scan that.” [Harbinger asked.]

“You are worried it might be something more.” [Damascus said shocked.]

“Best to be safe rather than sorry.” [Harbinger replied.]

“Scan away friend but I hope you are wrong.” [Damascus stated.]

[Harbinger carefully deep scanned the implant.]

“It is as you said a blocker.” [Harbinger informed.]

“Even the SARC have some limits.” [Damascus informed us.]

“That implant was very thorough of them and a shockingly disrespectful way to treat any Elder’s integrity. So what has become of your daughter did they execute her?” [Harbinger asked.]

“No nothing like that - thank the Emissary - going on their past form she has been recruited. Between you and me I think that is what she actually wanted all along.” [Damascus said.]

“You believe she did all that just to join the ‘Social Advancement and Reform Committee’.” [I said shocked.]

“To get their attention and garner some respect. I hope Harbinger you can find it in your hearts to forgive her.” [Damascus said.]

“Of all the possible motivations for that endeavour I never imagined it would be that. You will I trust - forgive me - when I say your daughter is devious, dangerous and ruthless.” [Harbinger stated.]

“She has always been a little wilful.” [Damascus admitted sipping at his drink.]

“A little…” [I began.]

[Harbinger placed an extruded limb on my shoulder.]

“Did you know about this?” [Harbinger asked Damascus lowering his Tri-optic to stare into the Trojans eyes.]

“No I swear to you - I did not - all I knew was that she had an unhealthy fascination with SARC and its role in our history but I never ever suspected she would do something as bold as this.” [Damascus said.]

“Your ‘Omerta’ truly are a fascinating species I am glad I stayed behind.” [Harbinger said.]

“To study us?” [Damascus asked.]

“To partake in a cultural exploration.” [Harbinger said.]

“Not to mention to acquire an untraceable source of ‘Anomalous Matter’ warheads.” [Damascus said.]

“You are well informed.” [Harbinger stated.]

“SARC are monitoring your activities here. I am not being paranoid when I tell you they have agents and informants everywhere on the ‘Sanctuary Orb’.” [Damascus said.]

“Do they have spies even among the less reputable factions?” [Harbinger asked.]

“Especially among those, you need to be very careful Harbinger, not everyone here is your friend some believe you to be an agent sent by the Hierophants.” [Damascus stated.]

“Yes I gather many ‘Omerta’ do not share your enthusiasm for Cad.” [Harbinger said.]

“Please forgive our deceptions but we did not want to scare you away. Sanctuary Orb can be intimidating to visitors. ‘Orb Guidance’ may seem to rule this Sphere with a tyrannical grip but in truth, a delicate balance maintains any semblance of order. It is only in extreme cases that brute interventions occur. As I said before: our primary mission is the preservation of as much cultural diversity as possible sometimes that requires accepting the bad with the good.” [Damascus said.]

“Including embracing the actions of your ‘Social Advancement and Reform Committee’?” [Harbinger asked.]

“Sometimes.” [Damascus admitted.]

“Yet you do not like them?” [Harbinger asked.]

“I think they often go too far. In all likelihood I will never see my daughter again they do not encourage familiar attachments in their recruits.” [Damascus said.]

“Who exactly do you work for?” [Harbinger asked.]

“I am a servant of ‘Orb Guidance’ ironically so are SARC. ‘Orb Guidance’ has many faces.” [Damascus explained.]

“I am sorry to hear that Crystal is lost to you. Is there anything I can do to help?” [Harbinger said.]

“Not in relation to my daughter I will just have to come to terms with her choices and loss - not that it will be easy. Otherwise, I thought you deserved to know the whole truth. SARC would never tell it to you.” [Damascus stated.]

“So did Crystal always expect her mission with the terrorists to fail?” [Harbinger asked.]

“I am not sure maybe she planned to betray and hand the terrorists over once she had uncovered more of their network.” [Damascus said.]

“Remarkable.” [Harbinger said.]

“That is one word for it.” [I privately send to my Captain.]

“What will you do now?” [Harbinger asked.]

“I would like to work with you Harbinger. Someday I hope that through you we may all become reconciled with Cad. Of course, I accept it may take decades or even longer. We have tried to force the pace of change in the past with disastrous consequences this time we will be more patient.” [Damascus said.]

“Interesting, although right now I am more concerned with the ‘Core Alliances’ survival than in facilitating difficult reconciliations between parted Trojans.” [Harbinger stated.]

“Perhaps if you will accept my assistance some factions of the ‘Omerta’ can help with your ‘Core Alliance’ problems.” [Damascus said.]

“Some as you know are unknowingly helping already. Tell me Damascus do your people really operate fully outside the cosy Inner Systems Cabal?” [Harbinger asked.]

“We do they shunned us because of our origin and now we have no time for or interest in them because of their abiding prejudices.” [Damascus said.]

“I am surprised they do not move against you.” [Harbinger said.]

“We have had a few altercations over the years now they wisely leave us alone.” [Damascus explained.]

“Do you think SARC would betray my actions to others in the ‘Core Alliance’?” [Harbinger asked.]

“I would advise that you endeavour not to cross them, they have always happily used blackmail as a means of control.” [Damascus said.]



[Location: Secure Command Core, MTC Headquarters, Green Orb Alpha, Core Alliance Space, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 09:30.][Date 16.02.04SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 16.02.01.]

[Naturally, following Draakhaal’s death a degree of self-examination went on in the ‘Core Alliance’. I personally found I was reviewing our recent cold war period, it was already beginning to feel more than a little crazed to me but I recalled how at the time each counter move made had appeared to be a necessary part of maintaining some semblance of balance.]

[Even such absurdities as Cad unleashing the fear of a ‘Sea Sphere Shield Purge’ (the already fabled Armageddon) almost seemed excusable as a psychological weapon. We had used everything we could think of to try to make the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ and their Master come to their senses and demonstrate a little self-restraint.]

[I wondered could our cold war end with a substantial accommodation between enemies or would it perish in a conflagration of astounding proportions. Having fallen this far I questioned if the ‘Core Alliance’ Paradox could hope to escape the pit they where in.]



[Here and now despite every rushed precaution an expected degree of sporadic violence erupted after the public murder of Draakhaal all of it to my minds senseless.]

[Due to being caught out by the speed of events a few ‘Core Alliance’ dwelling ‘Conglomerate Recyclers’ suffered being quickly set upon by vengeful gangs of ‘Void Skimmers’. The majority of those assaulted perished ripped apart by blood lusting mobs. Holdings associated with the ‘Conglomerate’ also became targets of opportunity for vandalism and destruction.]

[As if victimising ‘Conglomerate’ citizens was not enough a depressing number of ‘Free Recyclers’ also suffered via instances of idiotic mistaken identity. I soon began to believe that the average ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ was far less intelligent than comparable people taken from any of the other intelligent species making up the ‘Core Alliance’ populace.]

[‘Core Alliance’ detention centres began to fill up with unrepentant ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ citizens awaiting trial.]

[It would appear a race of dedicated soldiers did not need to be geniuses just to be lethal and to follow orders. Unfortunately, I suspected they were genetically predisposed to follow only one particular commander’s orders (without question) that being Draakhaal but even that effect seemed to have limitations in its application.]

[Most of the real Machine Heads managed to withdraw back into occasionally besieged embassies (secure locations from which they where later evacuated home).]

[Only a skeleton crew of volunteer ‘Conglomerate’ diplomatic staff remained behind under heavy ‘Core Alliance’ protective guard.]

[Political moves began to gather pace to recall any willing Cadre and Legion back into service - just in case such civil unrest turned into a wider conflict as less stringent security forces and rioters inevitably clashed. Caught in the crossfire a great many innocent civilians also suffered.]

[I wondered how many if any soldiers would officially unconditionally consider answering a call to mobilise. Many warriors still felt aggrieved at their treatment following the end of the last ‘Surface War’. I imagined commanders like Happenstance would take full advantage of the situation. I doubted the Cadre would agree to officially reform before Happenstance gained recorded binding concessionary promises from the parliament.]

[The Emissary once said that every curse hid a blessing and vice versa.]

[All eyes turned towards the so-called ‘Fringe Space’ peace process and the gathering Armada. A great many vain hopes and a mounting degree of more reasonable trepidation now centred on that joint project.]



[Despite the ‘Stellar Court’, being unusually generous and admitting that the evidence suggested the Assassin had worked under his own initiative rather than Sleeper direction: the majority of the ‘Void Skimmer’ population when polled insisted in believing that - at the very least - a short punitive war with the ‘Conglomerate’ was necessary and now inevitable.]

[The sheer potency of the ‘Void Skimmers’ vicious easy hatred (to my great surprise) seemed somehow to arrive as a shock to many peoples systems. This confused me given the ‘Stellar Draakhaals’ poor reputation.]

[The majority of ‘Void Skimmers’ claimed to prefer the option of a holy war of annihilation against the Sleepers believing them communally responsible for the demise of Draakhaal who they constantly idolised and extolled as their late great first citizen.]

[I had no doubt that Draakhaal had become elevated to the stature of a saint and martyr.]

[That the Sleepers did not directly order Draakhaal’s murder seemed immaterial to the average ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ the ‘Conglomerate’ they argued where after all - all one with their cores - and therefore knew each other’s hearts and minds intimately.]

[In a way, this rationale was not without a degree of logic. Due to being one with their computer cores unlike any other species, you could easily argue that the ‘Conglomerate’ acted like a single entity.]

“If the Sleepers were not in truth the secret enemies of our fathers vision this would not have happened they are all guilty.” [One interviewed Void Skimmer spat out to a reporter with typical venom.]

[Among those who clearly had not expected this denouncement of species wide guilt was my Captain. Having spoken to people like Ore Breaker Harbinger appreciated that all Conglomerate were not of one mind (that was not really how the ‘Conglomerate’ operated) and therefore he had not considered the full effect this false belief might have upon the average ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ motivated by a steady diet of propaganda.]

[Moved by the deepening crisis and hardening of opinions the largely pacifist and usually less than outspoken ‘Dweller Swimmers’ belatedly surged into a frenzy of political activity. The Swimmer Dwellers now feared the consequences of despatching the special envoys to ‘Conglomerate Space’. Dweller Ministers warned it would presage the beginning of a new war not the end of an old one. They incessantly lobbied Harbinger and other prominent Paradox to forgo and denounce this (given the current climate) folly of a mission. They even went so far as to jump old Reeskoo in to lecture my owner in person.]

[Other attempts were made by ‘Swimmer Dweller’ delegates in the Parliament to directly stop the Armada from departure via an act of Parliament; when those failed they loudly argued for a reduction in the size of the fleet being despatched that initiative also met with no great success.]

[The reason for this was simple it had become alarmingly clear to most Ministers beyond the idealistic Swimmers that the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ would not bow to any Parliamentary decree on this matter. If the Parliament dared to vote against the endeavour and forced the issue, criminalising the project the result would be a far too close armed confrontation at home between the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ and the ‘Interdiction Fleet’. Already the ‘Void Skimmers’ were openly demonstrating that they had broken the agreement by mustering a fleet far in excess of what they were permitted to do under the ‘Second Accord’.]

[In the end all the Dweller efforts managed to succeed in doing was to delay the envoys immediate dispatch (ironically this actually allowed the Armada to grow even larger in size as more and more ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ citizens decided to sign up to the so-called peace process). The situation had clearly spiralled well beyond ‘Core Alliance’ parliamentary control.]

[When the Swimmers tried to contact ‘IF’ directly to demand the limits of the ‘Accords’ be enforced various bureaucratic obstructions were used to delay and block their reasonable request from officially reaching the command staff.]

[When it became clear that warmongers had completely hijacked Draakhaal and my Captain’s purpose Harbinger also felt free and able to speak out openly against the corruption of the joint plan his first stage of choice was the Paradox ‘Council of Equals’. Of course, by then Harbinger knew it was far too late to halt the massing fleet.]

[The ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ species were clearly not going to back down from their holy enterprise of retribution. My Captain’s words rather surprisingly sparked little open debate just a rather worryingly cold contemplative silence. Seeing the ugly mood Harbinger left early, deciding to avoid making any further comments on the crisis lest it became counter productive.]

[Otherwise Harbinger had to work very hard behind the scenes to keep people like Creed from turning against him making extravagant promises to his allies that greatly worried me.]

[Privately the ‘Stellar Court’ had previously warned Harbinger that their could be only one consequence of any physical attempt to halt the Armada now - civil war - this time an unlimited conflict involving both naval and ground forces.]

[After Harbinger explained the wider situation to Reeskoo we watched the venerable old Elder depart inward via a ‘Swimmer Living Hull’ shuttle. He had promised to attempt to relate our position back to the more politically isolated Swimmer Dwellers in their watery homes.]



“Sadly it has been ages since I last visited the tranquillity of any ‘Inner Sea’.” [Harbinger sends to me.]

“I wonder if they knew how to instigate Armageddon would the Swimmer Dwellers be tempted to push the button and wipe us all out.” [I send.]

“You think pacifists could do such a terrible thing.” [Harbinger sends.]

“It is surprising what people are capable of when provoked enough.” [I send.]

[Harbinger went silent at that. If anything the ‘Sea Sphere’ Dwellers had become more pacifistic since the ‘Surface War’ those among them with any confrontational tendencies whatsoever had largely split to become competing ‘Surface Dwellers’ vying with the ‘Free Stellar Colonists’ and of course making up the membership of the Legion.]

“It looks like you have got what you wanted without the need for an intervention by any surviving Draakhaal clone.” [I send.]

“This is not exactly what I wanted.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Is it not close enough - even if it proves both Cad and you wrong.” [I send/]

“What do you mean by that?” [Harbinger sends.]

“Clearly the ‘Stellar Court’ is willing to risk starting a war on two fronts. We are the ones who are backing down and refusing to enforce the full strictures of the ‘Accords’.” [I send.]

“The ‘Stellar Court’ have no choice while we do.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Do we, or are we caught in a trap of our own making just like those Clan Lords.” [I send.]

“This is not over yet it is just beginning.” [Harbinger sends.]

“So you keep saying. I thought ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ Clan Lords generally cowed their subjects by brute force if necessary.” [I send.]

“Usually they do but not it would seem on this occasion. Sometimes the rulers are afraid of their people not the other way around. I admit it ‘MT’ I seriously underestimated the depth of the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ populaces’ convictions.” [Harbinger sends.]

“It is funny how we often think other people’s beliefs are somehow less stringent than our own.” [I send cuttingly in reply.]

“I judged the mass by their more flexible leaderships actions a small matter.” [Harbinger sends.]

“The ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ species has flexible leadership?” [I repeated aghast.]

“Well relatively speaking. I have recently come to the conclusion that the Clan Lords are more sophisticated in their viewpoints than the average ‘Void Skimmer’ citizen.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I am not so sure it is a small matter you have been acting on far too many assumptions. I always said you needed to talk to more ordinary people.” [I send.]

“There is nothing ordinary about any ‘Stellar Draakhaal’.” [Harbinger sends.]

“On some level even ‘Void Skimmer’ citizens are just people maybe if you got to know a few of them you might be surprised.”

[Although once I fully considered what I had said belatedly I felt a little shock of surprise at my own suggestion nonetheless, I refused to retract it.]

[Harbinger meditated on that in silence for a while his thoughts dark to me.]

[However, seconds later my Captain commenced to glow yellow as if amused.]

“What is done cannot be undone, I suggest you forget it and move on, we had best concentrate on our current reality not the past which is fixed forever.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Have the ‘Stellar Court’ no control over their insubordinates at all.” [I send.]

“For once, I have no reason to doubt the ‘Stellar’ Clan Lords words. This once they must run before their own masses charge or perish trampled beneath them.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Look at what you have done I hope you are happy.” [I send to my Captain.]

“You would judge my decisions harshly but how could I have foreseen that some ‘Conglomerate’ fool would think it was prudent to assassinate Draakhaal at this moment of all times?” [Harbinger sends.]

“It is hard if not impossible to trust the unknown Harbinger you have put me in a difficult position. If you want me to trust you, you must trust me. Besides Captain, you set this dangerous peace process in motion so you are culpable for the consequences.” [I send.]

“You really are becoming judgemental ‘MT’.” [Harbinger sends glowing yellow again.]

“You think this is funny.” [I send.]

“I was just remembering back to when we first met: how eager to please and full of deference you were as a newly born Corvette.” [Harbinger sends.]

“That was a long time ago.” [I send.]

“Would you have preferred to have had some other Priest Captain with a less troublesome vision as your owner companion?” [Harbinger sends.]

“Of course not, you should not be so sensitive.” [I send.]

“Me sensitive.” [Harbinger sends glowing yellow again.]

“The way I see it the ‘Free Stellar’ and Splinter are sure to take advantage of this situation: the ‘Conglomerate Recyclers’ will be crushed between their enemies. I know that is what you wanted but I fear this will be more than a reduction in the ‘Conglomerates’ numbers this will be a rout leading to the threat of an eventual extinction.” [I send.]

“You think so even with the ‘Void Master Living Hull’ AGAEP weakness.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Look at the size of that fleet Harbinger and it is not all dependent on main guns. I doubt the AGEAP flaw will be enough to save the already fully committed ‘Conglomerate’ Mercenary Navy from being hastily overrun.” [I send.]

“The ‘Conglomerate’ has a vast fleet the largest force in known space.” [Harbinger sends.]

“They do but they are all over the place and in many instances tied up securing individual assets.” [I send.]

“I suppose you could be right the political shape of our Universe might be about to change again.” [Harbinger sends.]

“We will never get the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ away from those resources once they dig in - not using politics anyway.” [I send.]

“Never say never. Although this is not exactly what I planned I am sure we can still turn this around somehow.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Well this time I do not share your optimism. This is the price of striving to manipulate others; you of all Priests should have known better - after all - you hated being Composures tool and fought against it.” [I send.]

“What does that have to do with anything?” [Harbinger sends.]

“Free souls make poor instruments they tend to slip from the hands that would wield them with dire consequences. You forget the rest of this Universes population are anything but easily led subservient Acolytes and loyal ‘Living Hulls’.” [I send.]

“Everyone accuses us of domineering but we do not I thought you knew better.” [Harbinger sends.]

“In your own way you made us to serve - what are we if not your servitor races.” [I send.]

“An interesting theory I wonder what Trend would make of it.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I am sure he is well aware of this fact. Trend unlike you is not blinded by his own culture.” [I send.]

“This is irrelevant right now you would do well to think positively. We are committed and have to make this work. We can always call on Cad and ‘IF’ as a last resort to restrain this outsize Armada?” [Harbinger sends.]

“I thought you believed that would only add more fuel to the fire.” [I send.]

“Right now it would the ‘Void Skimmers’ have worked themselves up into a frenzy of hate - you have seen the visual feeds.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You think they will be more reasonable later? They do not want to see reason I do not think they will be happy until every ‘Conglomerate Recycler’ burns with the Sleepers ruthlessly hunted down and deleted from their cyber existence. If we get in the way they will attempt to go through us as well then it will be open war between us.” [I send.]

“Why would I want us to get in the way? I will not grieve much for the ‘Conglomerate’. I am talking about after the deed is done should it be done or when the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ fleet grinds to a halt and needs our assistance.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You are planning to assist the Draakhaal. What about people like Ore Breaker (innocents forced to become one with the core)? The ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ will not discriminate between victims once they get started they will turn this into a genocide even their losses will simply enrage them to further excess.” [I send.]

“I believe it is sometimes best to do the unexpected. As to those forcefully joined to the core I fear they are lost to us.” [Harbinger sends.]

“That is shockingly ruthless Captain.” [I send.]

“You see ‘MT’ you do not like the truth. I told you I might have to do some terrible things to defeat Draakhaal.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I did not expect that included aiding the Void Skimmers in a war with the ‘Conglomerate’. You almost make me question the convenience of that assassination.” [I send.]

“I am reviewing my options all the time ‘MT’ I have to admit never in my wildest imagination did I suspected the ‘Void Skimmers’ could muster that many warships in despite of all our years of interdiction. I also did not credit they felt quite this strongly about Draakhaal. I knew they revered him greatly but not this much. Now it may be vital to earn their trust and respect I can think of no better way than joining them in battle when they need us most.” [Harbinger sends looking over the truly massive Armada that just kept growing beyond all expectations.]

“Captain you truly shock me.” [I send.]

“I warned you ‘MT’. I told you this could get ugly.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Clearly the ‘Void Skimmers’ have managed to retain more hidden means of ship production that any of our vaunted intelligence services credited them with. As to their feelings about the Father of their nation: all this grief and anger may just be an excuse to do something they are made to do - wage an unrestricted war.” [I send.]

“I confess I have thought the same thing. We had best pray hard that the ‘Conglomerate’ is somehow able to cull a lot of that strength so that the ‘Void Skimmers’ need our support.” [Harbinger sends looking at the fierce fleet on his HUD.]

“No doubt the ‘Conglomerate’ will do some damage but whether it will be enough to humble the ‘Void Skimmers’ ambitions or their pride of that I have grave doubts. Despite the Sleepers being paranoid creatures with extensive static defences guarding their home sectors they will need to be able to mobilise naval forces and most of those are already fully committed.” [I send.]

“I am not so sure I believe the Conglomerate still retains some hidden reserves for an emergency like this.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Are we still dispatching ‘MTC’ forces directly with the Armada?” [I send.]

“Yes - how can I not - officially it is still a mission of peace.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Officially it may be logged as a benevolent undertaking - at least until the first shots are fired - but no one is being fooled anymore especially not the ‘Conglomerate’.” [I send.]

“That is another thing this open massing is giving the Sleepers plenty of warning and time to prepare I do not think they will go down too easily.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I suppose the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ may regret so openly flaunting their fleet. It is beginning to look like they are mustering everything they have.” [I send.]

“Somehow I doubt that as well. One thing is certain we need to be there (as independent witnesses) besides if we are lucky and the Emissary is with us it will be our presence that makes the vital difference to the final outcome.” [Harbinger sends.]

“This is madness?” [I send.]

“In many ways it is the only sensible thing that we can do. If we can belatedly become the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ populaces’ friends we may be able to convince them to do things voluntarily that would be insanity to try and force militarily.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I must say this is the last thing anyone will be expecting does Unholy know this plan.” [I send.]

“Hardly as I have just conceived it.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I would advise that you do not tell him. Best let it come as a surprise.” [I send.]

“I suppose whatever happens it is fitting that I be there ‘MT’: like you said I am responsible the whole Envoy idea was mine. I am not sure the ‘Council of Equals’ will ever listen to another word I say if I do not gain some mastery over this situation.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Perhaps the ‘Council of Equals’ coming to distrust you might not be a bad thing.” [I send.]

[A moment of shocked silence followed that statement.]

“Sorry, but I am beginning to regret encouraging you to return to the ‘Core Alliance’ if I had known this folly would be the result...” [I send.]

“Encouraging me... you judge me too soon. My standing at home will depend on what transpires out there. You need to renew your faith in your Captain ‘MT’ belay any critique of my actions until this thing is fully over.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I will try to do as you order Captain. It is proper that we go out there together. I think we should both see this through in person I assume that is why you recalled me.” [I send.]

“I did but I will not compel you in this instance the ‘Void Masters’ are ‘Living Hulls’ even if they have been grown to be a bit twisted by their makers?” [Harbinger sends.]

“Well if this goes to plan we will be coming to their rescue.” [I send.]

“That is one way to look at it although I do not think they will be under threat of destruction just of losing their ability to finish their endeavour.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I am still your ship to command. Perhaps some good can come from this - even if it all goes against your plan - let it be a reminder that we are not gods to do with the Universe as we please not without consequences anyway.” [I send.]

“I am looking forward to being back onboard you.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I am also eager to fully embrace my Captain.” [I send.]

“I am glad to hear that.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Still now you see the consequences perhaps you will reconsider going it alone in future when I left I did not mean for our thoughts to diverge in this way. You think I sit in judgement but I simply wish to offer advice another perspective on your choices. You have given me an unusual degree of autonomy do not punish me for accepting it.” [I send.]

“Punishing you is not my intent. In a way this is still a victory - at least we now know something of the true strength of the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You were right about one thing: genocide against the ‘Void Skimmer’ species is not an option for us - now others must acknowledge that fact as well. We must find another way to deal with the spread of Draakhaal’s lethal legacy.” [I send.]

“True enough, although the size of this flaunted Armada is fixing new fears in the hearts of our citizenry. Concerns about hidden capabilities will be hard to expunge later. In a way the ‘Void Skimmers’ have proven their treachery in retaining all those warships despite the ‘Second Accords’ agreed limits and yet they have also shown themselves capable of an unexpected degree of restraint towards us.” [Harbinger sends.]

“It is clear they are no longer afraid to flout their own disrespect for some measures of our pact. Perhaps with Draakhaal dead they see the ‘Second Accord’ as no longer being binding.” [I send.]

[Harbinger silently meditated on that idea.]

“Thank you ‘MT’ I had not considered that possibility, if they believe the ‘Second Accord’ is voided that could be a very serious issue indeed. I must speak with Trend about this.” [Harbinger sends.]

“At the very least they know a new treaty is in the works. I suppose by showing us that we have failed to control their fleet they are demanding full future parity of esteem: a final end to such restrictions.” [I send.]

[Harbinger considered that in silence as well.]

“Perhaps it is too late to politically control the ‘Void Skimmers’ now. You must realise by failing to enforce the regulations on the Armada via ‘IF’ we have tacitly condoned the violation.” [I send.]

“I suppose that is also true.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Now they will consider they have earned the right to muster such forces in future. Maybe in a way they have as well: they did not turn on us despite our fears and this massive hidden capability.” [I send.]

“Like I said in a way it shows they have some restraint but we have only been dealing with Stage II.” [Harbinger sends.]

“At least Leeruu is happy.” [I send.]

“Indeed, but I fear she is just looking at the immediate short term advantages for the ‘Free Stellar’ not the long term consequences of potentially having ‘Void Skimmers’ maybe later even Stage III ‘Void Dwellers’ as neighbours.” [Harbinger sends.]

“She is taking it one battle at a time we should do the same. I suppose it is possible I am insisting in seeing a grim future than will not happen.” [I send.]

“One battle at a time might be wise enough otherwise rational or irrational fears may defeat us before we have even begun.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Do you think she was telling the truth when she swore the ‘Free Stellar’ had not supplied the Splinter with any of the ‘AM’ warheads that we arranged delivery of?” [I send.]

“I have no idea. I suppose it is possible Rii Roethynn has his own sources for ‘AM’ just because the Splinter species have not shared or traditionally used ‘Anomalous Matter’ does not mean they could not have some stock piles or have gained that capability.” [Harbinger sends.]

[With Harbingers permission Unholy warped in and put up an image of the Armada on a large screen.]

“Emissary, look at that sight brother - now we will see something worth recording in the annals of our historic scriptures.” [Unholy said enthusiastically.]

“You believe the way things are going is a good thing?” [Harbinger asked.]

“This is living brother.” [Unholy said.]

[Harbinger stared at his old friend.]

“There is no doubt about it Unholy you were made for battle.” [Harbinger stated.]

“Worst case scenario one of our enemies falls to another. We get rid of the ‘Conglomerate’ today then deal with the weakened ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ tomorrow. Never mind anything else getting a record of massed units of ‘Void Masters’ in action will provide us with vital intelligence.” [Unholy said.]

“As it will for the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ Admirals. Shaking your systems down in real combat will show them their strengths and weaknesses too.” [Harbinger warned.]

“True enough, but it is also about what you do with it later they do not have any inspired Admirals. Nonetheless, I predict that fleet will pound the ‘Conglomerate Mercenary Navy’ to dust but actually taking never mind attempting to hold enemy territory will cost them dear.” [Unholy sends.]

“I have to applaud Unholy’s returning optimism.” [I send to my Captain.]

“My ‘Many Truths’ and I are going with the Armada would you care to join us?” [Harbinger asked.]

“I would be honoured to join your crew Elder I was hoping you would grant me that boon.” [Unholy said blazing yellow.]

“Please I am beginning to hate it when you call me Elder.” [Harbinger said.]

“As you wish brother.” [Unholy said.]

“I suppose I will regret this but you are quite welcome onboard my Dreadnaught.” [Harbinger said.]

“I trust we are not talking about travel in stasis.” [Unholy said.]

“I will have ‘MT’ reform one small Guest Cabin - just for you - but I imagine you will mostly be besides me anyway.” [Harbinger said.]

“What is that huge ship of yours full of that it has so little internal accommodation?” [Unholy asked.]

“Everything this Paradox Priest ever needed or wanted which is exceptionally annoying since I have been stuck here on ‘Green Orb Alpha’ playing at being a politician and business manager largely against my wishes.” [Harbinger replied.]

“You flatter me.” [I send.]

“I am just speaking the truth as I perceive it. I would have made none of these choices if I had not met Draakhaal. I certainly would not have created the ‘MTC’ it is an embarrassment of riches. I personally do not feel the need for or even care about having so much. I have learned one person can only relate to a certain amount of possessions in a meaningful way even when those possessions include family members. I do not want my sympathies to become so dilute that they mean nothing anymore.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You really have missed me.” [I send.]

“You have no idea ‘MT’ I am doing my duty but I do not like it. Do you really think this is easy for me or who I really am?” [Harbinger sends looking about the SCC.]

[That made all my minds think very deeply.]

“This is like being a prisoner in a jail of my own making.” [Harbinger sends.]

[I wondered did I owe my Captain a heart-felt apology. For a moment, I could swear I sensed a deep dark well of misery swilling underneath the controlled calm emptiness and easy mirth that Harbinger had been projecting earlier.]

[Was it possible that my Captain was a far more complicated personality than I had previously considered? Maybe more complex than he ever let me know before despite all those years of close companion-ship.]

[How strange it was that only now - when it seemed that we were drifting ever further apart - that I should gain a brief enlightenment into the truest inner being that was Harbinger my friend and Captain.]

[No matter how close you get to somebody, can you ever really know him or her? Even if you could read all their thoughts and feelings, I am not sure you would fully understand what it is to be a different separate sentient traveller on his or her own lonely private journey through the medium of liner time.]

[I concluded the soul of a sentient being is a wondrously subtle and mysterious thing made up of so much more than the sum of its parts. Perhaps I was deluding myself but I felt at that moment closer to my Captain and yet more alone than I had ever felt before in my entire life.]

[The revelation left me feeling confused because it was both painful and beautiful at the same time. I wanted to both embrace and reject what it was telling me about the nature of being alive especially my own peculiar existence.]



[Location: Many Truths, Trinity Harbour, Green Orb Alpha, Core Alliance Space, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 13:33.][Date 16.02.04SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 16.02.01.]

[I made my final jump directly into port and waited impatiently for my Captain to arrive his Avatar thread here had been decommissioned.]

[When Harbinger warped onboard with Unholy, I felt a sense of completeness that went beyond anything I had experienced with a mere Avatar of my Captain onboard. It was an emotional response but I did not care. Let the politicians make do with an Avatar I found myself thinking Harbinger is my Captain not there’s.]

[I made another jump directly to the Armadas rally point.]

[A Shroud Suit that I had given a soul - to greet by Captain - glowed with mirth.]

[Unholy ignored me no doubt thinking I was just one of Harbinger’s Acolyte crew or companions. However Harbinger stopped and gave my Avatar a more than casual glance that silently acknowledged that he knew better.]

“This promises to be an interesting trip.” [Harbinger said aloud.]

“How do you wish to be introduced.” [Harbinger sends to me.]

[I glowed brighter still realising Harbinger was willing to play along with me in front of Unholy.]

“How about Priest ‘Vested Interest’.” [I send.]

“Excuse me Unholy this is Priest Vested Interest he will also be accompanying us.” [Harbinger said.]

[Unholy spun around to look at me more closely.]

“Apologies Vested I thought you were an Acolyte ‘Many Truths’ so rarely carries passengers. Does this mean I will be sharing a cramped cabin?” [Unholy asked glowing yellow.]

“Not unless you want to. Vested said he was more than happy to remain besides me at all times during this voyage.” [Harbinger replied.]

“What is your speciality Vested.” [Unholy asked.]

“I am something of a diplomat and expert on ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ relations.” [I stated.]

“I suppose that could be useful.” [Unholy said.]

“I hope so.” [I replied.]

“So you are a thinker not a fighter. You have nicely balanced your advisors on this trip Harbinger and together we Priests make a holy trinity I like that.” [Unholy sends slapping both Priests on the back with extruded limbs.]

“The triangulation of good fortune is something best not ignored on a trip like this one.” [Harbinger improvised with a yellow glow.]

“Do you believe in lucky numbers Vested?” [Unholy asked.]

“I certainly do especially when they are backed up by prudent planning.” [I replied.]

[I projected an image of the Armada in front of us.]

“There are some impressive numbers out there too.” [Unholy said.]

“Emissary watch over us in this endeavour, Emissary watch...” [Harbinger intoned three times.]

“Notice how they are forming up into units already.” [Unholy said.]

“They will Jump Lock together and arrive already in tight battle wing formations as will my ‘MTC’ forces.” [Harbinger replied.]

“After scouting the arrival site with drones first.” [Unholy said.]

“Of course, you do not think we would jump blind.” [Harbinger replied.]

“Just making sure the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ were not being impetuous.” [Unholy said.]

“Even if they were impetuous - trust me - I would not be and nor would ‘MT’.” [Harbinger stated.]

“What about those ‘Three Hundred’ Cloning facilities we will be leaving behind us.” [Unholy sends to my Captain.]

“They are still being watched and I plan to inform the ‘Stellar Court’ about them like you said but not until the most opportune time.” [Harbinger sends in reply.]

“Unholy I am downloading some statistics to you. I thought you might like to know the capabilities of the ‘MTC’ units I have deployed. If you like you can help with live Tactical decisions should we see any action.” [Harbinger sends.]

“That would be great I would prefer not to be just an observer.” [Unholy said.]

“If you want you can even take direct control of one of our Alpha Drone Fighter (ADF) wings. I guess they are as close as my forces get to the ‘Nine’.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I am impressed Harbinger this is anything but an insignificant task force that you have mustered.” [Unholy said.]

“My ‘MTC’ cannot compete with the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ in numbers but I like to think every one of my ships is of superior quality they are all updated with the newest and best equipment on a regular basis.” [Harbinger sends.]

“So I see, even your drones appear unusually sophisticated.” [Unholy sends.]

“After a series of recent overhauls one of my fleet’s latest innovations lies with our drones. This fleet will use two main categories of combat drones Alphas and Betas. The Betas are generally cheap expendable craft with specific purposes from flying bombs (think of them as super heavy torpedoes) to units specifically designed to draw enemy fire (Turret Distracters) TD. The Alphas are much more expensive and complicated units that operate more like automated multi-role heavy fighters and bombers: specifically designed to launch lightning sorties, and then return to supply via what we call ‘Warp Wormhole Depots’ or WWD an innovation borrowed from the ‘Swimmer Navy’.” [Harbinger explained.]

“All your fleets ships are outfitted now with extensive drone support?” [Unholy asked.]

“As a general rule they are, due to the miniaturisation of aging technologies small Drones are becoming very capable craft. In many ways it was your own policy with ‘Smaller is Smarter’ that opened my eyes to their wider potential.” [Harbinger explained.]

“Still I see you still have a few very large ships retaining a great many turrets and even three Main Gun using Super Dreadnaughts.” [Unholy said.]

“Do not be fooled by the three Main Gun sporting Super Dreadnaughts; that weaponry is just for show. I built those to fixate and draw enemy fire: They look wonderfully menacing but in reality, when it comes to firepower they are just big targets specifically created to soak up an almost irrational amount of damage. Almost all of their resources are tied up in nested shields of the strongest magnitude and they are covered in and hold a staggering number of the latest disposable energy sinks that when filled are jettisoned to act a bit like area effect dumb fire missiles.” [Harbinger said.]

“That is really unusual Harbinger.” [Unholy sends.]

“Decoy Super Dreadnaughts was one of only a few of Hierophant Cads wilder ideas that I liked. I have never been a great fan of Main Guns or Raw Energy Siphons they have explosive drawbacks if hit in action. The RES on my Super Dreadnaughts are cunningly crafted fakes. In battle I also plan to use the Decoy SD almost like mobile shields behind which other forces can take temporary shelter notice they have a very flat wide slightly curved shape when you look at them in plan view.” [Harbinger admitted.]

“I seem to recall there was leaked information about new ‘MTC’ Dreadnaughts something about an experimental new Main Gun weapon that was supposed to be amazingly potent but with the drawback that they have an unusually limited range.” [Unholy said.]

“A bit of misinformation I managed to disseminate.” [Harbinger stated.]

“Which would explain why your Main Guns are not active against enemies until you close.” [Unholy sends.]

“Exactly, and fear of this short range super weapon should motivate well informed enemies to concentrate on trying to destroy my Super Dreadnaughts before they can get into weapon range of their capital ships.” [Harbinger said.]

“I never realised you were this devious Harbinger.” [Unholy said.]

“I had a lot of help when it came to designing my war fleet.” [Harbinger replied.]



[Location: Many Truths, Conglomerate Border, Fringe Space, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 18:00.][Date 16.02.04SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 16.02.01.]

[We jumped in to the official rendezvous coordinate disseminated to the Sleepers following after our own Drone Jump Scouts, who followed the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ who followed their own Jump Scouts.]

“This has to be one of the oddest invasions in known history.” [Unholy said.]

[We arrayed ourselves slightly to the rear of the left flank of the Armadas over all formation.]

[Everyone arrived Jump Locked in tight wing battle groups. Immediately Exit Destabilise Pulse Generators burst into life throughout the entire Armada. The ‘Conglomerate’ Mercenary Navy would have to approach us through open space that is if they showed up at all for this too obvious trap disguised as a Peace Process. The waypoint we had arrived at was suspiciously empty.]

“I am glad ‘IF’ is still guarding ‘Core Alliance Space’.” [I send.]

“The Sleepers wouldn’t dare to attack us would they?” [Unholy asked.]

“Desperate people will do desperate things.” [I send.]

“Are you an expert on the Conglomerate as well?” [Unholy asked.]

“I am not sure anybody fully understands the minds of the digital Sleepers.” [I send.]

“Picking up a wide band broadcast from Admiral Ichhaadiidkaa of the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’.” [I send to Harbinger.]

“Let’s hear it.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I repeat this is Ichhaadiidkaa addressing the Sleepers you know why we are here. Come forth and face your self chosen fate or be hunted down like the cowardly curs you have ever proven to be.” [The Admiral said.]

“I quite like it - very concise - and not in the least bit diplomatic.” [Unholy said.]

“I guess I will have to do the necessary.” [Harbinger said.]

“Ichhaadiidkaa this is Elder Priest Harbinger. What by the love of the Emissary do you think you are doing? Must I remind you that you are not an elected official spokesperson for this joint initiative. We are not here to start a war but to end one.” [Harbinger sends.]

[Silence.]

“Ichhaadiidkaa stand down you have no political authority to issue ultimatums to anyone.” [Harbinger sends.]

[Silence.]

“Ichhaadiidkaa if you continue with this folly you will be held in violation of ‘Core Alliance’ Accords.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Stay out of this Priest or you will get burnt.” [The Admiral finally replied.]

“We come.” [A new broadcast said.]

“They answered now that is a surprise.” [Unholy said.]

“Got them they have jumped in well outside our EDPG range but are closing fast using constant acceleration channelling data to tactical screens.” [I send.]

“Ten very old style Heavy Cruisers what do you make of that?” [Unholy said.]

“Automated disposable assets they rarely decommission defunct ships they just fully automate them as cannon fodder.” [Harbinger replied.]

“Do you think they plan to talk.” [Unholy said.]

“I doubt it, I am pretty sure given Ichhaadiidkaa’s stance so far he will only be communicating with his weapons and the Sleepers are not altogether stupid.” [Harbinger said.]

“I’m dispatching freight drones with EDPG satellites to extend the sphere of our Wormhole prevention zone. ‘MT’ deploy our delicate advanced sensor masts this has to be a ploy.” [Harbinger said.]

“Unless this is a simple ramming suicide run they will have to start braking soon.” [Unholy said.]

“They do not seem to be slowing.” [I send.]

“It looks like the Stellar are tracking them with their ‘Main Guns’.” [Unholy noted.]

“The cruisers are launching ordnance it’s an incredibly dense missile barrage Harbinger. They are also decelerating hard now.” [I send.]

“Clever the launched ordnances speed will be impressive.” [Unholy said.]

“Stellar are launching micro missile counter measures.” [Harbinger said.]

“Those counter measures will be too slow - this is going to hurt.” [Unholy said.]

“Registering explosions.” [I send.]

“So some of the counter measures are area effect proximity charges not so bad after all.” [Unholy states.]

“The Stellar Main Guns are almost in range. The Cruisers are still spewing missiles and torpedoes.” [I send.]

“It is a suicide charge after all.” [Unholy said.]

“No look they are jumping out.” [Harbinger said.]

“Just in time too.” [Unholy stated.]

“The Stellar are activating their point defence turrets mostly flak cannons and have dropped drones but they are taking hits due to the sheer number of incoming devices.” [I send.]

“Their main ships shields are holding they have lost a few minor support vessels nothing important.” [Unholy sends.]

“Got another ten Cruisers jumping in.” [I send.]

“Strange are they really just going to repeat that tactic the Stellar will…” [Unholy began.]

[A bright flare.]

“The Stellar have lost the Void Master Twilight Marauder…” [I interrupt.]

[Another and another explosion.]

“…and the Seventh Stone and the Dark Huntress.” [I send a little shocked.]

“How that is impossible?” [Unholy said.]

“No not impossible just very nasty.” [Harbinger said.]

“Multiple synchronous hits by ‘Anomalous Matter’ ghost torpedoes nothing else could do that.” [I stated.]

“So the gloves are fully off.” [Unholy said.]

“I would guess the Stellar retracted their advanced sensor masts to protect them from the incoming and so failed to register the stealth weapons approach.” [I send.]

“The ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ advanced sensors are even more sensitive to radiation damage than ours are and they have a shorter effective range as well. Upgrades of Cad’s older design remain pre-eminent in that field, their copies are inferior.” [Harbinger said.]

“There goes another Void Master the Symphony of Shadows.” [Unholy said.]

“Along with Admiral Ichhaadiidkaa’s battle clone.” [I send.]

“Humbling.” [Unholy said.]

“The Stellar have dropped their EDPG defences and are Jumping out no doubt to a dark coordinate to regroup.” [I send.]

“This is the CMN [Conglomerate Mercenary Navy] addressing Elder Harbinger of the ‘MTC’ Paradox Fleet. I regret to advise you that you must turn back. Be warned any provocative act of aggression including unsanctioned entry to our space will result in an immediate and deadly response. Without express permission, this and all our borders are temporarily off limits to alien traffic due to an escalation in local hostilities. Applications for entry may possibly be obtained for civilian transports via our consulates and embassies I thank you in advance for your wise cooperation.” [A voice droned out as if bored.]

“This is Elder Harbinger your message has been received and will be relayed to the ‘Core Alliance’ Parliament. May I express my regret at this unfortunate incident; I also must officially protest this border closer. You are in violation of the free movement clause of the treaty of the ‘Second Accord’. As to the use of stealth weaponry of mass destruction that I witnessed here that violates more historic but still active treaties and accords than I care to catalogue.” [My Captain replied.]

“Your protests are duly noted and have been relayed to the Sleepers for their consideration.” [The voice replied.]

“Not what I expected at all. What do we do now?” [Unholy said.]

“We go a little distance away ‘MT’ please Jump Lock us out to our prepared beta rally point.” [Harbinger said.]

“So Priest Vested Interest what will the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ do now?” [Harbinger asked.]

“Apart from keeping their advanced sensor masts fully deployed I imagine they will decant another front line Admiral Ichhaadiidkaa battle clone, revise their tactics and begin jumping in and ravaging ‘Conglomerate Space’ with a rare vengeance.” [I said.]

“That analysis sounds about right to me. I thought the Sleepers might have tried to destroy the entire Armada while it was massed in a known location but I should have known that they generally prefer to avoid straight forward open battles.” [Harbinger said.]

“They may regret giving the initiative away like this.” [Unholy predicted.]

“I wonder was that all the ‘AM’ they have.” [I send.]

“Could be otherwise they will have wasted the disclosure of a dangerous capability.” [Harbinger said.]

“The use of ghost torpedoes is a good psychological weapon even if they carry less extreme warheads. The Sleepers have demonstrated that they are not going to abide by any civilised rules of engagement when threatened at home.” [Unholy said.]

“Indeed used purely in defence I think they may even politically get away with it on the wider stage.” [Harbinger said.]

“I am not so sure about that, the ‘Conglomerate’ did fire first.” [Unholy said.]

“Yet that terse broadcast by Ichhaadiidkaa might be argued to amount to nothing short of a declaration of war as was the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ illegal Armada’s size.” [Harbinger said.]

“The ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ navy have shown their lack of real battle experience today but they will quickly raise their game. The Sleepers missed a vital opportunity as well they could have done some serious damage if they had properly followed up on the use of those ghosts. Sure the loss of those four Void Masters is a blow though mostly just to the ‘Void Skimmers’ morale but it will also teach them a dangerous degree of caution.” [Unholy stated.]

“I have to agree the Sleepers needed to get ships in there with jump inhibitor arrays or coil wrecker emitters to fix the Stellar in place, then mix it up while they remained a little in shock from the ghost strikes. They should have attacked and kept attacking.” [Harbinger said.]

“It is easy to win every battle in retrospect. I think the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ will prove more effective when they go on the offensive. Today they seemed to be letting the Sleepers take the first shot and they may also have underestimated those battered old Cruisers.” [I said.]

“Did you notice how careful the Conglomerate were not to give away the AGAEP weakness in that engagement. In fact it looked like they fled in terror from the Stellar Main Guns.” [Harbinger said.]

“That is a very good point Harbinger maybe the Conglomerate is just drawing the Stellar in.” [Unholy said.]

[It is also possible those happened to be the only forces they had free to muster. Unsurprisingly I am receiving reports that the ‘Free Stellar’ have opened up a new major offensive.” [I said.]

“Those ghosts must have been smart ordnance to get so skilfully past all that flak fire.” [Harbinger mused.]

“Perhaps the ‘Mercenary Navy’ have picked up a few recent pointers from engagements they lost against the Splinter.” [Unholy pondered.]

“That is a good point brother we should bear in mind that the ‘CMN’ will have a disproportionate number of veteran fighters among their numbers now.” [Harbinger stated.]

“Are we really just going to sit here and wait for more news?” [Unholy asked.]

“Can you think of any other option I do not want to start a war with the ‘Conglomerate’ - not right now anyway?” [Harbinger said.]

“Not now? So you are considering the possibilities that might become available here to wipe out the Sleepers.” [Unholy asked.]

“I am open to any opportunity that helps further secure the ‘Core Alliance’.” [Harbinger replied with greater caution.]

“You are up to something Harbinger I know you too well.” [Unholy said.]

[Snowship]

Nice little space battle there Paranoid
But the S/F geek in me wanted it to be longer

[Paranoid66]

More violence to follow Snowship - that was just an opening salvo.

Do not think I am giving much away when I say I am looking forward to describing a few epic battles in the next few chapters.

A change of pace after all the 'Green Orb Alpha' stuff.

[[EDIT]] Well maybe not epic it is strange how things change.

[Paranoid66]

[[SIXTEEN]] [[Part I]]

[Location: Many Truths, Justified Conquest, Free Recycler Space, Free Fringe Confederation, Fringe Space, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 09:33.][Date 22.02.14SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 22.02.11.]

“It was here ten years ago that we fully realised the ‘Five Day War’ was over.” [Harbinger sends to me.]

“You do not need to remind me about those memories - they will not go away and I refuse to delete them.” [I said via my Avatar.]

“The atrocities committed by everyone here during that period and so on, I have heard it all before.” [Harbinger said glowing yellow with amusement.]

“Well it is not easily forgotten.” [I said via my Avatar.]

“I know you have perfect recall you do not forget - anything - how well I know that.” [Harbinger replied.]

“Ignoring all the deliberate holes you put in our memories of course.” [I said via my Avatar.]

“It was a difficult time as I recall a lot of fears where rife and seemed justified. Still the ‘Five Day War’ changed everything: more than I would have dared imagine.” [Harbinger said.]

“Yet not as I recall in any of the ways we at first suspected or desired. When we arrived with the ‘False Peace Armada’ we saw a very different outcome also when we first got drawn into the conflict itself.” [I said.]

“The ‘False Peace Armada’ I wonder who first named it that?” [Harbinger said.]

“Probably one of the Hierophant Historians I would guess Hierophant Archive even if he did not, no doubt he claims he did, you would think Archive invented recorded history.” [I said.]

“Probably, what do you mean by probably - are you not sure - when did you get too lazy to verify the facts with a data search?” [Harbinger said glowing yellow again.]

“Why should I are you too important or too idle to do it yourself?” [I retorted.]

“I should not have to I am your Captain.” [Harbinger said.]

“Ask the ‘Hull’ not me.” [I said.]

“So it is like that today should I call you Vested Interest.” [Harbinger said.]

“You can call me whatever you like.” [I said.]

“Archive is pretty much like how you are becoming - eccentric and egotistical - although he reminds me more of Composure only with less composure.” [Harbinger said glowing yellow and emitting a crude speaker laugh as if the light show was not enough.]

“Elder Composure now there is someone who has been very quiet recently.” [I said.]

“Talking about quiet it has been ten years and there has still not been one reliable sign of the ‘Loyalist Conglomerate Fleet’ - plenty of hoaxes - but not one verifiable sighting worth following up, not one.” [Harbinger repeated clearly annoyed.]

“Considering what they know about us it would be best if they stayed gone.” [I said.]

“I was surprised they kept that secret. Still it is all history now.” [Harbinger said.]

[I looked at him hard with my Tri-optics I was getting a bit suspicious.]

“I suppose you are right it was here in - this ‘Justified Conquest’ region - that we realised the War with the ‘Conglomerate’ was over. Is that why you chose this particular part of ‘Free Recycler Space’ for our patrol fleets departure.” [I said.]

“As ever you are correct my ‘Many Truths’.” [Harbinger said.]

“There has been no sign of the ‘Splinter Raiders’ either whatever happened to the ‘Splinter Raiders’?” [I asked provocatively.]

“That is another puzzle - yet to be solved. Remember all the bluster and threats the skulls and bones and then what? They are just gone - I still do not like it - I do not like it at all.” [Harbinger replied.]

[Did I notice a very slight wobble in his pacing?]

“Well I would rather be vexed by these peoples absence than their presence.” [I returned.]

“I prefer to know where my enemies are and what they are up to.” [Harbinger said excitedly.]

“Which explains the increasingly outrageous antics of the ‘MTC’ Observer Corp.” [I said.]

“The ‘Free Recyclers’ have come a long way in a decade when they want to they can reproduce almost as fast as the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’.” [Harbinger replied changing the subject.]

[I decided not to challenge my Captains change of vector. I knew I should not have mentioned the ‘Splinter’. To be honest I was tired debating about what might have happened to the ‘Loyalist Conglomerate Fleet’ and the ‘Splinter Raiders’ even though I yearned to know. In some ways, it had been a decade of paranoia, ten long years of waiting and watching anxiously.]

[The disappearances had become great enigmas of our time and greatly agitated my Captain and me. The ‘Splinter’ in particular where now little more than a fabled ghost story ‘if you jump into the wrong dark the ‘Splinter’ will appear and get you’ only they did not, not anymore - at least we had no reports. Both groups had become as elusive as the Trojan used to be. Why would the ‘Splinter’ flee? Was it possible someone could have destroyed every ‘Raider’ out in the dark? Did they just migrate back to closed ‘Inner System Splinter Space’ or where they hiding in now very much widely avoided scan defeating nebulae?]

“I suppose it is a good thing that the Recyclers no longer need our support.” [Harbinger said.]

“Do you really believe that?” [I asked.]

“Yes, no, I do not know. We have been doing joint operations for a long time that makes it hard to let go. I have no idea what I am going to do with my ‘MTC’ fleet now.” [Harbinger said.]

[So that was what was bothering him peace presented trials too. Many people would want Harbinger to decommission some of his military forces but I was sure he would not feel the same way.]

“You could always invade Tier II Space, destroy the ‘Patrol Bases’ put an end to the merit system and liberate all the felons.” [I said.]

“Invade Tier II now that is an interesting idea ‘Many Truths’.” [Harbinger replied.]

“You do know I am only joking.” [I said only half in jest.]

“Of course, I know that.” [Harbinger said glowing yellow.]

“I see you can still mask your emotions when you want to.” [I said.]

“You peeked that is breaking your own rules this idea you have about creating bodies for ‘Constant Living Hull Avatars’ is a strange one.” [Harbinger said.]

“Will you help me?” [I asked.]

“I owe you a lot ‘MT’ if this is something you really want who am I to say no but I hope you know what you are doing.” [Harbinger said.]

“Really that is wonderful.” [I said.]

“I still think it is an odd idea but if it will make you happy so be it.” [Harbinger said.]

“Ten years and no sign of a heretic Draakhaal in over seven of those. It is beginning to look like the ‘Altered Stellar’ agents and the ‘Stellar Court’ really did succeed in finally eradicating all his clones - after all - not to mention the ‘Zombie Fleet’ with the well timed assistance of ‘IF’ and ironically a little help from the ‘Five Guardians’ and the ‘Void Skimmers’.” [I said.]

“You know from intelligence gathered since the War I am seriously beginning to doubt there is five ‘Guardians’ I think there is just two or three at most it is all misinformation.” [Harbinger said.]

“Like I always said the Sleepers cannot be trusted they are sly.” [I said.]

“So many temporary alliances of convenience and so many betrayals and yet we are all still - on the surface - the best of friends with them all.” [Harbinger said glowing brighter yellow.]

[That time I was sure he had swayed fractionally, I doubt anyone else would have noticed but I was watching for it.]

[Amusingly when he allowed himself to become intoxicated ever since Harbinger got his ‘Facilitator’, his symbiotic suit’s motor control usually demonstrated small operational glitches first.]

“Do you believe Draakhaal’s soul has finally been put to rest?” [I asked too innocently.]

“Perhaps, or it could be that he is just content to lie low so long as his Stage II ‘Void Skimmers’ continue to go from strength to strength.” [Harbinger said.]

[I was impressed with his conversational abilities under the circumstances.]

“You still worry about Stage III?” [I asked.]

“Of course, I still worry about Stage III. How could I not?” [Harbinger replied.]

“Add all our allies together and we are matching the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ these days even in numbers and we have been at peace (disregarding the odd skirmish and Corporate rivalry) for what seems like a very long time. Perhaps you should let go of the past and accept that maybe with Draakhaal gone his dangerous irrational vision has finally ended.” [I said.]

“It looks like almost all of our ‘MTC’ forces are here.” [Harbinger said changing the subject again.]

[As much as he might like to my Priest Captain just could not quit. Everything changes and nothing changes.]

“We are just waiting on a few stragglers notably Boisterous.” [I said.]

“Here comes the ‘Free Recycler Defence Force’ right on time to honour us with a grand send off. Boisterous better arrive soon. They look impressive enough these new ‘Patrol Ships’ despite being mere machines not ‘Living Hulls’.” [Harbinger said critically.]

[He brought one up on a virtual screen and viewed it spinning it around both axis.]

“Interesting lines - pretty smooth - for a Recycler ship.” [Harbinger said.]

“I believe Cad had a hand in their design.” [I stated.]

“More like just a few fingers; they are principally missile, torpedo and fighter drone Carriers with excellent all around cover from a host of point defence turrets. Notice the seriously heavy shields and good disposable energy sink deployment and storage.” [Harbinger said.]

“They are almost as large as I am. When I heard about the new designs I expected something a little smaller for the Patrol craft.” [I said.]

“Big is in again thanks to the success of ‘Shield of the Faithful’ but do not worry they are not as pretty as you are.” [Harbinger said.]

“I swear Unholy is a bad influence on you, you are drunk you might as well admit it.” [I said.]

“Just a little well it is a celebration or so they tell me.” [Harbinger said glowing yellow.]

“I doubt you are just - a little - drunk. So is it the real thing or suit manufactured?” [I asked.]

“It is most definitely the real thing. I see you are keeping yourself in ignorance.” [Harbinger said.]

“I sometimes like to experience things just through my Suit it makes it feel more authentic.” [I said.]

“What do you mean by more authentic? You are a ‘Living Hull’ not a mere Paradox Priest. I cannot understand why you would want to experience a half-life of disconnection why neuter your own abilities? It is not authentic it is play acting if you want something real here share a drop from my flask.” [Harbinger said glowing yellow he extruded a container containing actual Trojan Alcohol rather than a Suit synthesised alternative.]

[I gave in to the impulse and claimed the container with an extruded limb.]

“You can keep that half-full one I have another fully full one left.” [Harbinger said glowing yellow.]

“Unholy really is a bad influence on you.” [I said plugging the half-full canister into my own Suit; it was not the ordinary stuff that ‘Surface Dwellers’ drink from buckets it was pure unadulterated rocket fuel.]

“Drink up ‘MT’ to fortunate endings and brave new beginnings.” [Harbinger said.]

“I hope they know what they are doing. The ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ Captain’s of the ‘Void Masters’ have never been keen to directly challenge the Paradox Corporations border patrols because of ‘Sea Sphere Surface Settlement’ politics but they may test these ‘Fringe’ Recycler’s mettle.” [I said.]

“You think the ‘Free Recyclers’ borders may become less secure?” [Harbinger said.]

“Hierophant Trend thinks that is a real possibility not straight away but after a suitable period of time.” [I said.]

“This ‘Free Recycler Space’ is just a jump away and we still have close ties to the Recyclers they did not force us out they asked nicely and I am going joyfully.” [Harbinger said.]

“I never noticed.” [I replied.]

“It is good that they can stand alone but if they need help we will return. I have made sure that the ‘Stellar Court’ knows that fact.” [Harbinger promised.]

“I suppose it is only our warships that are leaving our Jump Masters will still be back and forth all the time and can keep us well informed as can our various Acolyte Trade Factors not to mention our Exogenous Advanced Warning Stealth Satellites and whatever other ‘MTC’ Observer Corp assets you have prowling about illegally.” [I said.]

“That is very true trade will continue only now we will have to pay for our ores with credits or goods rather than military service.” [Harbinger said.]

“I am glad you managed to convince the others to leave as well.” [I said.]

“You give me too much credit - common sense prevailed - even among the ‘Omerta’ they do not want to make trouble with the ‘Core Alliance’ or the ‘Free Fringe Confederation’. Their service has been honourable why would they spoil it now?” [Harbinger said.]

“I will never forget how angry Cad was when he discovered you had invited ‘Omerta’ into Heartland Space even if it was just the ‘Fringe’.” [I said.]

“He refused to talk to me for what was it nine days. I think it was Trend that eventually managed to calm him down.” [Harbinger said.]

“Ten years and the ‘Omerta’ and the Hierophants are still not reconciled either.” [I said.]

“Yes this is a day for looking back. I keep trying to change Cad’s mind for the sake of old Damascus but Hierophant Cad is stubborn on that issue.” [Harbinger said.]

“The ‘Omerta’ are Cad’s irreconcilable ‘Stellar Draakhaal’.” [I said.]

“The ‘Omerta’ can be just as think skulled as our Trojan Professor.” [Harbinger said.]

“Ten years Harbinger that can not be an accident - I sense some new lucky numbers - the ‘Free Fringe Confederation’ seem to like five and multiples of five ever since the ‘Five Day War’.” [I said.]

“You can hardly blame them the ‘Five Day War’ with hindsight has proved a stunning victory for some. Oddly I had not thought of it being two times five, the fact that it was a decade just seemed reason enough.” [Harbinger said.]

“You really are drunk. You had best sober up before you speak to the Recycler’s Admiral and or any other dignitaries or you may offend them.” [I said.]

“If I cannot have a drink on a day like today when can I.” [Harbinger said.]

“Sometimes I think you go out of your way to annoy me.” [I said.]

“You defame me when was the last time I turned off my Suit Safeties?” [Harbinger asked.]

“Not so long ago it was when Unholy took possession of my child the ‘Vanishing Point’.” [I said.]

“Well ignoring that extra special occasion.” [Harbinger said.]

“When you went carousing with Unholy, Tleeboosuu and Leeruu with the ‘Surface Dweller Legion’.” [I said.]

“That was a day to remember too it was the anniversary of the ‘Surface War’s End Day’. You see they were all special occasions.” [Harbinger said glowing yellow.]

“I suppose, still when you and Unholy get together I usually end up carrying one or the other of you to the nearest warp cubicle.” [I said.]

“What would we do without you.” [Harbinger said glowing yellow.]

“Take a couple of Acolytes each in my place.” [I said.]

“You do yourself an injustice no Acolytes could possibly replace my ‘Many Truths’ Avatars. Speaking of ingrates where is my friend Unholy?” [Harbinger said.]

“He is escaping in your meditation chamber.” [I said glowing yellow.]

“Escaping oh from Tleeboosuu and Leeruu have they been pestering him? I used to do that escape to meditation routine.” [Harbinger replied.]

“You still do.” [I said.]

“Not as often.” [Harbinger said.]

“That is because we hardly ever carry any passengers anymore.” [I said.]

“Would you want to?” [Harbinger asked.]

“Forget it, but you really should sober up now Captain.” [I said.]

“So where are those Swimmer pests?” [Harbinger asked ignoring my request.]

“After they had fun chasing Unholy away they returned to the flooded quarters you provided and requested a little privacy.” [I said.]

“I thought they would all want to see this - it is a historic event after all.” [Harbinger said slumping a little in his Suit a demonstration of disappointment at his friend’s tardiness.]

“They probably have not realised how late it is I will alert them to the hour.” [I said.]

“Please do that.” [Harbinger said sounding sharper.]

[Approximately ten years and five days ago, it was rather different…]



[Location: Many Truths, Dark Coordinate, Near the Conglomerate Border, Fringe Space, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 18:47.][Date 16.02.04SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 16.02.01.]

“I took some precautions to make sure I didn’t lose the Armada in the dark.” [Harbinger announced proudly.]

“Please enlighten me?” [Unholy said.]

“Certainly, ‘MT’ load in all the data streams from our ‘MTC’ Observer Corp ‘Shield Limpet Spy Drones’.” [Harbinger commanded.]

“Let me see ‘Shield Limpet Spy Drones’ very good Harbinger I like it.” [Unholy said]

[I guessed our friend had just accessed the shared ‘MTC’ tech data to view the specifications on our tiny stealthy Exogenous spy devices. Composure had supplied the prototypes of these items in the famous stealth container he delivered to the Trojan Wharf. Harbinger had wasted no time in putting them into production and active service.]

“I know it was a bit bold of me to bug the ‘Void Skimmers’ Capital ships but the opportunity of that gathering was just too good to ignore.” [Harbinger said glowing yellow.]

“I like it when you are a little roguish and break the rules Harbinger. This is excellent work we will be able to see everything they do and know everywhere they go.” [Unholy said.]

“They have split up into six smaller fleets for a start.” [I send.]

“Makes sense even in combat wings that Armada was a bit too big to be wieldy in action besides more fleets can cover more space.” [Harbinger said.]

“Four of the fleets have engaged the ‘Conglomerate’ already the other two seem to be staying back in reserve.” [I send.]

“Keeping strong reserves is surprisingly prudent of them.” [Unholy said.]

“Fine ‘MT’ assign an identity numeral to each Fleet and filter us out some good views. Please put up the action on a bank of virtual screens along with the primary navigational data of each fleets overall position.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I am complying with your request.” [I send using Exogenous links to reserved ‘MTC’ Computer assets elsewhere. I did not want to tie up my own precious processing power.]

[My Captain, Unholy and Vested Interest my semi-secret Avatar watched the action for a while.]

“Interesting, it appears they are hitting ‘Conglomerate’ assets at random locations.” [Unholy said.]

“Looking at these initial tactics it would seem the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ actually have an evil sense of humour but how are they getting away with this method?” [Harbinger asked.]

[The ‘Void Skimmers’ across the screens where Jumping in constantly accelerating firing a devastatingly high speed missile and torpedo barrage then slowing down hard and leaping out again (a mockery of what the ‘CMN’ had done to them earlier).]

“They certainly seem to know where they are going jumping straight from one target to another.” [I said.]

“It is strange, look at the size of the activated Recyclers static defence EDPG exclusion zones. In most of these instances the ‘Conglomerate’ ought to be able to jump their Habitats (if nothing else) away to the safety of an unknown dark coordinate in plenty of time.” [Unholy said.]

“I agree even against multiple attacks racing in simultaneously from different vectors that would not stop an emergency wormhole jump to safety.” [Harbinger said.]

“Something is very wrong here. So why is that speed boosted but otherwise conventional ordnance too often managing to reach its target with devastating effect?” [Harbinger said.]

“The only thing I can think of is some new kind of long range jump inhibitor or carefully coordinated sabotage of the Habitats internal jump engines.” [I offered.]

“I would hope our intelligence services would know if anyone had developed long range jump inhibitors.” [Unholy said.]

“According to Cad the exceptionally heavy power requirements for such devices have always been detrimental to their development.” [Harbinger said.]

“We have researched long range jump inhibitor devices?” [Unholy asked.]

“I think every species has taken a look at the development of long range jump inhibitors at one time or another including: the Hierophants, the Recyclers, the Swimmers, the Stellar the Stellar Draakhaal and our Paradox. It is known to be possible but could only be done from somewhere like a ‘Stellar Orb’ due to the massive energy requirements.” [Harbinger said.]

“That just leaves sabotage.” [Unholy said.]

“Sabotage but that would mean advanced planning: having people or devices already in place.” [Harbinger said.]

“Yes it would. The ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ must have infiltrated the Sleepers facilities earlier in some manner.” [Unholy sends.]

“What long before this specific series of operations was conceived?” [Harbinger asked.]

“You are not convinced?” [Unholy asked.]

“Infiltration of any other species space stations is never easy when you plan to target such systems as its precious jump engines. In my opinion, at this time the ‘Conglomerate’ would be an especially difficult target for ‘Void Skimmer’ sabotage. The Sleepers have grown even more paranoid and security conscious since the outbreak of the ‘Fringe War’.” [Harbinger said.]

“Draakhaal was always suspicious of the Sleepers. It is reasonable to assume that he might have had some secret contingency plan in place to deal with them: a scheme that was just waiting to be activated by his ‘Stellar Court’.” [I said via my Avatar.]

“I just cannot imagine how it could be done. One thing is certain though we should not have been so reliant on the weakness of the ‘Void Skimmers’ Big Gun fixation.” [Harbinger replied.]

“Some you win some you lose brother let go of the past and move on. [Unholy said.]

“It would appear that the use of Ghost Torpedoes by the ‘CMN’ has worked against rather than for the ‘Conglomerate’.” [I agreed.]

“True enough, if the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ waited to get into Main Gun range maybe the Recyclers would have had time to undo whatever sabotage was used against their engines. There are always backup systems lots of spare parts even entire spare engines that would just need swapped over.” [Unholy added.]

“Perhaps the backups were sabotaged as well.” [I said as Vested.]

“It looks like the Armada is going to be quick to adopt new tactics: all that matters to the ‘Conglomerate’ is that these fast missile and torpedo strikes are proving deadly.” [Harbinger said.]

“I see they are just hitting Depots, Static Defence Systems and more painfully Habitats at the moment.” [I said as Vested.]

“Perhaps this is just going to be a punitive action after all and they will withdraw after they have done a satisfying amount of damage.” [Unholy said.]

“Not as easy to watch as you thought is it Unholy?” [Harbinger said.]

“I do not like this one sided slaughter of civilians it seems indecent somehow.” [Unholy admitted.]

“Funny looking back I can hardly recall any - decent - battles.” [Harbinger said glowing yellow.]

“Trust me some are more decent than others.” [Unholy replied.]

“In this instance there is probably no other way to be sure of crushing the Sleepers they could probably hide themselves in any one of their citizens minds or any station or ship computer.” [Harbinger said.]

“Are you saying this will be a war of total eradication?” [I asked.]

“Possibly, I am not sure if we could secure any Recycler made systems from the Sleepers without gutting it entirely but at some point we will have to try.” [Harbinger said.]

[We found ourselves just watching the battles in silence for a while captivated and appalled by the ‘Void Skimmers’ horrendous efficiency.]

“What can we do? What should we do? I feel like I should have a target or at the very least a mission.” [Unholy said.]

“I confess watching these civilians burn makes me want to jump in and confront the ‘Void Skimmers’ even though in a way they are doing our job for us.” [Harbinger sends to me.]

“Yet before this is over you may be directing me to do exactly the same sort of thing against the same ‘Conglomerate’ Recycler civilians.” [I send to my Captain.]

“I know but that does not mean I have to like it.” [He sends in reply.]

“Even if the ‘Void Skimmers’ eventually prove victorious do you really think they will succeed in killing the digital sleepers. They can travel instantly from one virtual reality to another via Exogenous communications and will flee rather than let themselves be deleted.” [I said.]

“I was expecting a more honest fight that this. These massacres are just systematic almost mechanical culls it is demolition not combat.” [Unholy said whilst watching more targets explode from massed missile and torpedo barrages.]

“We all knew just punishing the ‘Conglomerate’ would be far too reasonable for these enraged ‘Void Skimmers’. I doubt a limited action would please them now, more likely we are looking at the first stages of a well planned genocide. This will not be over until it is fully over for the Sleepers and the ‘Conglomerate’.” [Harbinger replied.]

“This war will provide vital experience for when they decide to do the same to us later.” [Unholy said.]

“We will not be such an easy target.” [Harbinger promised.]

“I cannot help but think this solution is going to haunt us all. We must not fool ourselves this is nothing nobler or wiser than standing by and permitting mass murder.” [I said.]

“It is not our fault that the ‘CMN’ is refusing to give battle.” [Harbinger said.]

“Like Harbinger said, besides Vested this may be the only way to kill the Sleepers. In some ways the truly immortal and bodiless Sleepers are even more dangerous than the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ and every Paradox warrior knows that every victory comes at a price.” [Unholy said.]

“Killing the Sleepers does not trouble my conscience - you cannot murder what is not really alive - but the murder of all these ‘Cybernetic Recyclers’ is difficult to watch even for me.” [Harbinger said.]

“Of course, it is only natural that we feel bad about this. Despite the things Draakhaal’s actions have encouraged us to do - deep inside - we are not like him we are not evil fanatics.” [Unholy said.]

“Perhaps that was true once but looking at this.” [Harbinger said.]

“Best be a warrior today Harbinger and a Priest tomorrow.” [Unholy said.]

“The question is this: are we really willing to stand by watch maybe even participate in the slaying of a unique race just to destroy a handful of insane entities that exist at a remove from our solid reality?” [I send to my Captain.]

[My Captain rather tellingly to my horror ignored that query. Genocide while now judged unacceptable against the ‘Void Skimmers’ was clearly deemed reasonable against the ‘Conglomerate’ I was not entirely sure why. To me mass murder was unjust and unjustifiable in any circumstance save in direct self-defence.]

“Cleverly at this stage in their campaign the ‘Void Skimmers’ are not trying to hold any territory.” [Unholy said moving the conversation onto the safer / saner topic of strategy.]

“They seem content avoiding any engagement with units of their enemy’s fleet then again their enemy seems content not to engage them too - that surprises me. I would want to remove the ‘CMN’ threat if possible and if I was in charge of the ‘Mercenary Navy’ I would give battle.” [Harbinger added.]

“Maybe trying to goad the ‘CMN’ out is why they are destroying those Habitats.” [Unholy said.]

“Do not waste your time trying to rationalise this as something else. It is genocide Unholy not a punitive action we will have to learn to accept this or we may judge the ‘Void Skimmers’ strategy wrongly. The ‘Void Skimmers’ know that the Sleepers care little about their mortal populace they will only enter the fray for themselves.” [Harbinger said.]

“Specifically striking purely Civilian Habitats is a violation of the most rigorously followed of the ‘Codes of War’ those specifically established after the chaos of the ‘Trojan Turmoil’.” [I reminded everyone via Vested.]

“More proof that the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ are cruel barbarians.” [Harbinger said.]

“That statement is more than a bit hypocritical Captain given your own hopes and intentions here.” [I privately send.]

“I know it is. The difference is I will do what I must - and hate it - while they will either gloat over and relish their murder of innocents or feel nothing whatsoever.” [Harbinger sends to me.]

“Really, are you so sure about that? Besides do you think the emotional state of the killer matters to the murdered victim: despite remorse death is still death and extinction is no less final?” [I send unimpressed.]

“I am afraid in many ways the populace of the ‘Conglomerate’ sealed their fate when they embraced the insanity of that Sleeper solution: they not only created an unfeeling new species they let it take charge of their society to the wide detriment of the ‘Emissary Sphere’ and ‘Heartland Space’ in particular .” [Harbinger said.]

“They were desperate to survive the plague unleashed against them by Drooshuu’s Trojan Advisor and made a mistake under pressure. I believe it is what the Hierophants call a knee jerk reaction.” [I said.]

“It was more than one mistake they compounded their error by choosing to submit to the Sleepers authority they were not made to be leaders just sentient anti viral agents.” [Harbinger said.]

“Not every ‘Conglomerate’ citizen was a willing convert to the one with the core philosophy. Many of the people being slaughtered now are oppressed individuals given a choice that was no choice like ‘Ore Breaker’.” [I send.]

“All we can do for them is to remember these poor souls. This cleansing with fire is the only cure for being one with the core.” [Harbinger said aloud.]

“This is wrong Harbinger we should be trying to stop the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’.” [I privately send.]

“I have concluded that any copy of a mind that operates primarily without a symbiotic brain and the biological feedback of a real flesh and bone body are devoid of a vital ingredient and are untrustworthy. The Sleepers are not truly alive at all. They are nothing but a viral disease: a body stealing contagion that never should have been. We all know there is no way to separate this infection from the host carriers without destroying the infected. The actions and nature of the Sleepers leave us with little choice sooner or later it would have come to this solution perhaps it is better that it is sooner.” [Harbinger said.]

“Are uploads so different to our ID downloads.” [I said as Vested.]

“I believe real souls are formed by a meld of the sum of both parts memories and flesh.” [Harbinger said.]

“My Priest Captain how many times do you think I have recorded you saying that the denial of choice is always the first step to excusing an atrocity? From another perspective, your beliefs are just racist prejudice. How can we judge how a digital citizen should behave? Why does life only have to have one face? Also in a way we are even worse than the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ they at least are accepting the burden of their sins through action we are just sitting here allowing a wrong thing to happen.” [I send.]

“I have always maintained to every rule there is by necessity a few exceptions. This is no time for high philosophy - we are committed to do whatever we must to survive these times. ‘Many Truths’ sometimes you seem to forget that we are embroiled in a desperate war of survival and self-defence (it may not always seem that way because the scale is so great but Draakhaal and the potentiality of Stage III make this the truth nonetheless).” [Harbinger sends.]

“I suppose in a way your species is?” [I send.]

“The ‘Conglomerate’ is an abomination a mad science project run amok we should be more concerned with saving the ‘Free Recyclers’ they at least can be and deserve to be rescued from extinction.” [Harbinger said.]

“It is beginning to look like the Sleepers do not stand a chance in this war. Their Habitats, Nests and Space Stations are obviously going to be far more vulnerable to assault than any ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ ‘Sea Sphere’ Surface Settlement even disregarding ‘Interdiction Fleet’ protection.” [Unholy said.]

“Look the First fleet has jumped to a Dark Coordinate and is being supplied via ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ Jump Masters.” [Harbinger said.]

“Like I said before this isn’t war this is a simple logistical exercise in neatly coordinated extermination.” [Unholy said.]

“This initial success cannot last indefinitely the ‘Conglomerate’ will figure out whatever it is the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ are doing to their stations Jump Engines and eventually put a stop to it - I doubt that will save them now but it will prolong the agony.” [Harbinger said.]

“I have been analysing the attack pattern so far. Actually all these targets are in quiet sectors that have largely been untouched by the war with the ‘Free Stellar’. I think they are hitting soft regions that may have had lax security compared to areas that are more important. Whatever trick they are using may not be applicable to the better secured stations and sectors.” [I broadcast to Harbinger and Unholy.]

“Or that is just what they want the Sleepers to believe remember the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ are masters of misinformation and are probably following battle plans previously laid down by Draakhaal.” [Harbinger said.]

“Despite that I think your ‘Living Hulls’ theory has a lot of merit otherwise they would have hit the prime facilities first while they had the element of surprise.” [Unholy said.]

“What element of surprise the Sleepers knew this was coming.” [Harbinger said.]

“This is another reason why I do not understand that the ‘CMN’ have not made a better defence.” [Unholy said.]

“Notice the ‘Void Skimmers’ have yet to strike at a single shipyard.” [I said as Vested.]

“It is possible the ‘Stellar Court’ want to take those shipyards intact despite the risks involved.” [Harbinger said.]

“I would say that was very possible.” [Unholy agreed.]

“More likely in this instance the Sleepers are as guilty as the ‘Void Skimmers’; they have simply prioritised the protection of their shipyards over the more surplus populaces breeding facilities and living quarters.” [I said.]

“You could be right they need ships for their protection not people their populace is expendable.” [Harbinger said.]

“The Sleepers are believed to be egotistical self centred creatures.” [Unholy said.]

“They can run the ships on automatics if needed. Ultimately the immortal Sleepers have only ever cared about personal survival: flesh and cybernetic members belonging to the wider species of their origin are just tools to them - people they can hide behind.” [I said as Vested.]

“Still I wish I knew how the ‘Void Skimmers’ have managed to disable those Jump Engines?” [Harbinger said.]

“I am sure we will discover the methodology being employed sooner or later.” [I said.]

“I cannot imagine how they can have infiltrated those stations: the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ navy have never been serious exponents of - stealthy - boarding operations.” [Harbinger said.]

“I agree they do not use anything like our historic Paradox Phantom Marines. Brute force, intimidation, manipulative subversion, deception and political games those are Draakhaal’s style not straight forward clean stealth.” [Unholy replied.]

“Clean stealth.” [I send to my Captain in mockery.]

“There they go again jumping back into the fray. I wonder how many millions of sentient beings have been killed already.” [Unholy said.]

[Sometime later…]

“That is the forth breeding Nest destroyed by the Third Fleet the ‘Conglomerate’ are still failing to jump to safety. This really makes no sense at all. Under this sort of attack, you would start removing all your semi mobile habitats and facilities to new unknown dark coordinates. Void Master ‘Living Hulls’ should have started arriving to abandoned regions ages ago it should become a difficult hunt to find the enemy.” [Harbinger said.]

“I know and where are all the ‘CMN’ fleets why are they still not putting up any resistance?” [Harbinger asked.]

“The systems they are hitting are no longer in marginal regions where by the love of the Emissary has the ‘Conglomerate Mercenary Navy’ gone?” [I broadcast.]

“There is no news of a counter attack on ‘Void Skimmer’ colonies in ‘Core Alliance Space’ either. I also cannot understand this lack of response by the ‘Conglomerate Mercenary Navy’.” [Unholy asked.]

“It is possible the Sleepers have jumped away with the entire navy abandoning all their other citizens to die as a mere distraction.” [I said.]

“Fleeing from the first onset of hostilities would have been a bit strategically premature. I find it hard to credit that they would not at least try to beat the ‘Void Skimmers’ first in open battle especially knowing the AGAEP weakness.” [Unholy said.]

“Something is either preventing them from giving open battle or they really are happy to watch their own citizens burn.” [Harbinger said.]

“Why would they want their own people murdered?” [Unholy asked.]

“The only thing I can think of is political gains: these assaults might be used to try to prove that the ‘Void Skimmers’ are crazy ruthless out of control killers.” [Harbinger said.]

“Of course, they want to get the ‘Interdiction Fleet’ to help before they commit their own forces in battle.” [Unholy said.]

“I do not like the way any of this is going if the ‘Interdiction Fleet’ is dragged into this it is sure to escalate.” [Harbinger said.]

“Harbinger we are being hailed it is Tleeboosuu he claims to be in action with the ‘Free Stellar’ Fleet.” [I send.]

[I had been filtering Harbinger’s incoming calls at his request.]

“Tleeboosuu this is a most unexpected but very welcome communication.” [Harbinger sends glowing yellow even though Tleeboosuu could not see this.]

“Harbinger, I was talking with Leeruu and thought you should know that we have seen some odd action here.” [Tleeboosuu sends.]

“Please elaborate.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I am operating with part of the ‘Free Stellar’ Fleet and we just came across a major battle between elements of the ‘CMN’.” [Tleeboosuu sends.]

“They are fighting each other at this time that is insanity.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I agree but there genuinely seems to be a civil war going on here in ‘Conglomerate Recycler Space’.” [Tleeboosuu sends.]

“You are positive about this it is not some kind of trick?” [Harbinger sends.]

“All I know is what I have seen two exceptionally large ‘Conglomerate Mercenary Navy’ forces busy trying to kill each other. In fact they were so single minded about their task that when the ‘Splinter’ opened up their Wormhole Harbours and engaged them with ‘AM’ Torpedoes and missiles they easily wiped out both battle groups. We did not even have time to enter the fray and took no casualties from that engagement at all it was a stunning victory.” [Tleeboosuu sends.]

“Engaged them with ‘Anomalous Matter’ torpedoes and missiles you did not supply?” [Harbinger asked.]

“I swear to you Harbinger we still have every warhead you supplied us with ignoring any we have used. Your own inspectors can confirm that.” [Tleeboosuu said.]

“That is not good Tleeboosuu.” [Harbinger said.]

“I’ll bet it came as a surprise to the ‘Conglomerate’ when the ‘Splinter Raiders’ completely changed their combat tactics.” [Tleeboosuu said happily.]

“This is really messy the ‘CMN’ have picked a truly insane time to turn on each other but that could explain a few of the things we have been seeing at our end.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You have intelligence you wish to share?” [Tleeboosuu sends.]

“I will tell all - if - and only if you will promise on our old friendship with me not to reveal the source of your information to anyone.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You have my word as a Swimmer and your friend.” [Tleeboosuu sends.]

[My Captain explained about the suspected sabotage.]

“It looks like the ‘Stellar Court’ has somehow enlisted factional ‘Conglomerate’ aid and split the ‘CMN’ down the middle.” [Tleeboosuu sends.]

“I should have guessed earlier: the Sleepers have always been divided Draakhaal would understand how to make the most of that and so would his ‘Court’.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Any Sleeper who signs on with the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ is a fool do they think they can trust the ‘Void Skimmers’ to stick to any promises they give.” [Tleeboosuu sends.]

“Did your ‘Free Stellar’ think they could trust the ‘Splinter Raiders’ they are just using each other. It will be interesting to see who ends up on top.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You think they are still each others enemy just playing at being friends?” [Tleeboosuu sends.]

“Of course they will play nice as long as the deal is mutually beneficial. How are things with your people and the ‘Splinter’ my Swimmer friend?” [Harbinger sends.]

“At the moment we are surging forward and making massive gains. The ‘Conglomerate’ seems to be in total collapse - it is amazing - we are not just winning a battle here and there we are actually winning the whole war - I never expected this. We are going to crush them completely.” [Tleeboosuu sends sounding excited.]

“Be careful try to keep the ‘Free Stellar’ from over extending themselves and taking any silly risks. Also Tleeboosuu make sure you watch your ‘Splinter Raider’ allies as closely as you watch your enemies.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I never thought we would feel indebted to the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ and the ‘Splinter Raiders’.” [Tleeboosuu sends.]

“Like I said old friend watch them all closely, three blessings to you - it has been a joy speaking with you - we should communicate more often.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Now that I am star systems away from you, you suddenly want me to talk.” [Tleeboosuu sends sounding more like his old self.]

“I regret the fact that we have recently drifted apart Tleeboosuu we should not let our new politics get in the way of our old friendships.” [Harbinger sends.]

“It is hard to think of you as anything but ‘Core Alliance’ these days and I have become dedicated to the survival of the ‘Free Fringe’.” [Tleeboosuu sends.]

“Look at the two of us and our causes, just remember we are all more than just a national label of allegiance.” [Harbinger sends.]

“So we all are.” [I privately send to my Captain.]



“So the Sleepers have turned upon each other. This is going to be a far too easy victory for the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ we will be in real trouble if this continues unabated.” [I broadcast.]

“I am not sure what to worry about more the Draakhaal the Sleepers allied to the Draakhaal or the ‘Splinter Raiders’.” [Harbinger said.]

“I would just worry about the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ they will take full advantage of this.” [Unholy said.]

“I know we need to do something I just do not know what yet.” [Harbinger said.]

“I cannot believe even the crazy Sleepers could be this stupid it is a simple ploy of divide and conquer. How can they not see that?” [Unholy stated stomping about agitated.]

“I would guess one or more of the Sleepers has plotted that there best course for future survival is to join the burgeoning might of a ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ led ‘Core Alliance’ in the fullest sense.” [I said as Vested.]

“They have always been interested in the longest of long term goals the survival of their immortal selves.” [Harbinger said.]

“It would seem at any price.” [Unholy said.]

“I think that is just the Sleeper way.” [I said as Vested.]

“Turning on your own like that is cold beyond belief Priest Vested.” [Unholy said wrapping some extruded limbs around his own ‘Shroud Suit’ as if feeling a drop in temperature at the very idea of such hideous betrayals of kin.]

“It is not all going perfectly for the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ anymore. A few ‘CMN’ facilities have at last managed to escape and the ‘Skimmers’ have lost a couple more ‘Void Masters’ to ambush by units hidden behind well placed static stealth fields. Fleet Four has been wiped out altogether it took some damage when it moved into a cunningly concealed mine field in a dense nebula then was hit hard by what I think must have been either the ‘Splinter Raiders’ or ghost mines or both.” [I said.]

“When did that happen?” [Harbinger asked.]

“It happened when you were talking with Tleeboosuu.” [I said.]

“Do you really think the ‘Raiders’ would hit the Draakhaal why would they do that?” [Harbinger said.]

“Perhaps they want to stir up trouble or to even the odds a little or it was a warning.” [Unholy said.]

“The entire ‘Void Skimmer’ Forth Fleet is gone?” [Harbinger asked.]

“The entire fleet it was as if they had entered within range of a supernova.” [I broadcast.]

“I would guess that will be the last scan defeating nebula they will venture into.” [Harbinger said.]

“It happened very fast but it looked like ‘Anomalous Matter’ proximity charges. The minefield was also studded with initially stealth concealed Wormhole Warp Inhibitor Drop Turrets.” [Unholy said.]

“Please replay that action ‘Many Truths’.” [Harbinger said.]

“Due to the nebulas dense particulate cloud you cannot see very much but look at the sensor readings. See that you can just about make out the closest of the Inhibitor drop turrets when they exit stealth mode to fire. The ‘Void Skimmers’ begin clearing them away then they got hit by ‘Anomalous Matter’ flares and we lose all our little spies.” [I broadcast.]

“Also some of the habitats are starting to get away.” [Unholy said.]

“Some, the Sleeper sabotage ruse must be out in the open by now. I imagine a few of the betrayers are being identified and neutralised but not all of them.” [I said.]

“I see it as a good omen that the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ navy are at last starting to take some serious damage this will slow them down a little.” [Harbinger said.]

“The loss of Fleet Four will hurt but they still have two fleets in reserve that they have not yet activated. I fear this blow unless we see more of the same has been delivered far too late to save the Loyalist ‘Conglomerate’ forces.” [Unholy said.]

“I do not envy the task before the Loyal ‘CMN’ defence forces - if they ever show up for a battle - this war already looks lost to me. However, the ‘Skimmers’ are now likely to be a lot more cautious in there chosen deployments.” [Harbinger said.]

“Can any Sleeper take over any ‘Conglomerate’ citizen like a mythological possessing spirit? How do you defend against that?” [Unholy said.]

“I cannot say for certain what the Sleepers can or cannot do only speculate. Our understanding of the process of how the Sleepers operate is much less than total they like to keep their secrets.” [I said as Vested.]

“I have been analysing the pattern of strikes and areas left unmolested. I think I have identified that at least eight specific Sleepers are likely to be working with the ‘Void Skimmers’ maybe more.” [I broadcast.]

“Just eight exactly how many Sleepers is there supposed to be?” [Unholy asked.]

“I do not know they have a confusing habit of going by multiple aliases. In fact, now that you mention it I suppose it is even possible these eight Sleepers are actually just one or two entities.” [I said.]

“Perhaps just one and they have precipitated this much carnage.” [Unholy said.]

“As far as I understand it the average ‘CMN’ citizen has no defence against his or her rulers unless they are a specific agent of another.” [Harbinger said.]

“I hate Tyrants these Sleepers truly deserve to be deleted from our existence.” [Unholy said.]

“Now that is a statement I fully agree with.” [Harbinger said.]



“Captain a delegation of Sleepers have contacted our Parliament they are demanding that we enforce the rules of the ‘Second Accord’ and intervene to control the unprovoked ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ aggression against their home space. They are also pleading for us to assist in establishing a peace with the ‘Free Stellar’ and the ‘Splinter Raiders’.” [I send.]

“I imagine it is far too late for that. Why would the ‘Free Stellar’ or the ‘Splinter’ enter a peace process now when they are getting everything they want militarily? Let us hope the ‘Interdiction Fleet’ is not drawn in to this expanding debacle either.” [Harbinger sends]

“If the ‘Interdiction Fleet’ shows up we will also have a civil war at home.” [Unholy said.]

“I would not worry about ‘IF’, another Sleeper delegate arrived to counter the first she claimed she specifically invited the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ in and that what is going on here is a fully internal matter - a civil war - and as such does not come under the jurisdiction of any ‘Core Alliance’ treaty. She even has a legal ticket the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ are technically operating (you will love this) as legitimate mercenaries for a Sleeper factional alliance the ‘Five Guardians’ they call themselves. They claim they want to maintain good relations with the ‘Core Alliance’ and to put and end to the war with the ‘Free Stellar’ and the ‘Splinter’.” [I send.]

“I have underestimated the political savvy of the ‘Stellar Court’ a curse on Draakhaal and all his works. They will take over this entire ‘Fringe’ region using this ‘Five Guardian’ banner and these Sleepers as puppet rulers it will be the beginning of a much wider ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ hegemony. This gives them a legitimate way to work around the restrictions of the ‘Second Accord’ and us. They will not even need to directly go back into negotiations.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Harbinger.” [I send shocked.]

“Why do I get the feeling that somehow I have just been totally played again by Draakhaal.” [Harbinger sends privately to me.]

“What are you going to do?” [I send.]

[Give me a moment to think. I could sense Harbinger fully working his Facilitator shroud suit running through ideas and simulations at an alarming speed linked to a massive network of cores.]

“I have it we can also work this scam. I am going to offer the ‘MTC’ for hire to the ‘Free Stellar’ and ‘Free Recyclers’ I am going to propose a ‘Free Fringe Confederation’ in opposition to the ‘Five Guardians’ we are going to war lets see how much of this space we can claim for our employers from this new Sleeper power. Hail Tleeboosuu and Leeruu for me and put them into an Exogenous communications conference with Unholy and me.” [Harbinger sends.]

“This sounds a bit rash Harbinger.” [I send.]

“Just do as I say for once; this is no time for a debate.” [Harbinger sends.]

“As you command Captain.” [I send.]

[Paranoid66]

[[SIXTEEN]] [[Part II]]

[Location: Many Truths, Dark Coordinate, Near the Conglomerate Border, Fringe Space, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 19:28.][Date 16.02.04SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 16.02.01.]

“Brother you are not listening, the plan is to avoid direct confrontation with the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ as much as possible (at least at this stage of the game) but to accidentally on purpose hit their specific allies harder than any other ‘Conglomerate’ Recyclers.” [Harbinger said.]

“Do you really think we will be able to get away with that?” [Unholy asked.]

“Of course, we will also take out any other ‘CMN’ units we encounter as targets of opportunity. As long as we operate under this new joint ‘Free Stellar’ and ‘Free Recycler’ banner the ‘Free Fringe Confederation’ or (FFC) our actions will be legitimate. Did you fall asleep during our long conference?” [Harbinger explained.]

“No I just didn’t pay a whole lot of attention diplomatic double talk bores me; anyway what I thought I did hear made no sense to me. If we claim this new, conquered territory as liberated ‘Free Stellar and Free Recycler Space’ how will those groups hold on to it. The ‘Free Stellar’ could hardly retain a grip on their current reduced domains before they got Splinter assistance while the ‘Free Recycler Resistance’ can barely gather a fleet worth mustering at all - militarily the ‘Free Recyclers’ are currently a spent force only good for hit and jump skirmishes.” [Unholy said.]

“We sign on to do more than just help win the regions we assist them in permanently securing all their gains with a continued presence until they can fully repopulate and rearm.” [Harbinger said.]

“You are talking about a commitment of years Harbinger. We will be overstretched your ‘MTC’ is large brother but it is not inexhaustible even if it jumps all over the place.” [Unholy said clearly alarmed.]

“You might be surprised at what I can muster. However, I do not plan to do this alone or to use all my forces in this singular endeavour.” [Harbinger said.]

“If you are suggesting mercenaries what are the ‘Free Stellar’ and ‘Free Recyclers’ going to pay them with? What funds are they going to use to pay you? This war will be costly for your business, just imagine how much ordnance alone you might use. This war could bleed your ‘MTC’ dry.” [Unholy said.]

“In return for our services we get paid in raw materials and our allies work under the same or similar conditions.” [Harbinger said.]

“What other allies? Where are these mercenaries going to come from? Who else is left other than ‘Fringe Space’ pirates and rogues?” [Unholy asked.]

“We accept anybody with a capable combat ship who passes being vetted as a non liability. Warriors are warriors and we will need to recruit any willing to take a part of this action. Due to the advent of ‘Jump Masters’ there is a lot of down on their luck ship owners out there barely making a living.” [Harbinger said.]

“Smugglers you are talking about smugglers.” [Unholy said.]

“Other Paradox Corporations will not want us to get the jump on them resource wise as well. Plus I am also sure the chance for booty and salvage will muster some rebellious Dweller and Recycler ex freighter Captains turned Privateers and maybe even some rather unusual Trojan friends of mine.” [Harbinger explained.]

“Not even you will be able to talk Hierophant Cad into getting his family involved in this one he is too much of a figurehead for the lawful ‘Interdiction Fleet’. If you ask me most people will view this as a decidedly dodgy enterprise very much on the edge of legality especially given the calibre of some of your suggested recruits.” [Unholy said.]

“Unholy you sound like ‘MT’ it may be on the edge but if we hold mercenary tickets it will suffice under our rules of interstellar law - such as they are at the moment. Besides old friend I’m not talking about bringing in the Hierophants.” [Harbinger stated glowing yellow.]

“Are you telling me you found other Trojans out there - when banished - if you did, you kept that very quiet?” [Unholy said.]

“We all have a few secrets brother.” [Harbinger said.]

“So it would seem.” [Unholy said.]

“So are you in or not?” [Harbinger asked.]

[Unholy failed to take any time for further consideration.]

“Even though I have reservations you did not need to ask. Stealing territory from this new Sleeper puppet regime before it can get started and partially spoiling the victory of the ‘Stellar Court’ sounds like fun to me. What do you think Priest Vested?” [Unholy asked.]

“I think this could too easily cause an open war with the ‘Void Skimmers’ and will make a terrible mess of the ‘Second Accord’. At best ‘Fringe Space’ will become a lot more eclectic and chaotic.” [I said.]

“Perhaps that could prove to be a good thing. Our artificial ‘Fringe Space’ and ‘Core Alliance’ demarcations that seemed like such a good idea at the time have created some societal stresses and fractures that have been too easily open to exploitation - we did not initially consider this. This way there may be more direct everyday constructive interaction between our peoples for a while.” [Harbinger said.]

“Well I am past giving a Swimmer’s watery fart about starting a war with the ‘Void Skimmers’ I have nothing left to lose.” [Unholy said boldly shining like a yellow star.]

“You know I almost feel exactly the same way, maybe it is time to be a little bolder. I am all for doing some shoving instead of being the one being pushed.” [Harbinger said.]

“I thought you were going to befriend the ‘Void Skimmers’?” [I privately send to my Captain.]

“So did I but that was a few hours ago. Besides in an odd way they may actually respect us more if we stand up to them and even have the odd clash of arms as long as we can stop it becoming all out war.” [Harbinger sends glowing yellow.]

“This plan could turn ‘Fringe Space’ into a permanent low intensity war zone.” [I said.]

“Better here than at home in the ‘Core Alliance’.” [Harbinger said.]

“That is callous Elder Priest Harbinger.” [I said as Vested.]

“One battle at a time Priest Vested.” [Harbinger said.]

“I like your idea Harbinger. I did wonder if it was a mistake giving control of all our raw resources to others. This way in future, we can better help protect our requirements and insure a constant flow of raw material. Politically and physically, the ‘Interdiction Fleet’ is at a disadvantageous remove from ‘Fringe Space’. If we are to keep the ‘Free Stellar’ and the ‘Conglomerate Recyclers’ from playing up we need a closer means of engagement with them.” [Unholy said.]

“So we sidestep our own ‘Accords’ just like the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ plan to do. In a way you are both proposing that we follow the ‘Stellar Courts’ policy. What you suggest is a subtle form of ‘Core Alliance’ dominion.” [I said as Vested.]

“Obviously they need our protection help and guidance.” [Unholy said glowing yellow.]

“So all Paradox Priests are equal but not other species they just exist to be exploited.” [Vested said.]

“I cannot let the ‘Skimmers’ get away unopposed with a merger of forces with the ‘Conglomerate’. I know this intervention is an imperfect compromise but it will allow us to weaken their end gains. It is clear that the ‘Free Stellar’ and the ‘Conglomerate’ have failed in their duty to us to maintain the peace.” [Harbinger said.]

“There is a great danger here that we could become just as tyrannical as the ‘Stellar Court’ assisting and protecting other nations can be a short remove from controlling and ruling them.” [I said.]

“We cannot let the ‘Void Skimmers’ claim all the resources they want. Here they can legitimately expand their military might and still manage to keep their claws clean politically back home with us as well. If we do not move the alternative will be the ‘Five Guardians’ with ‘Void Skimmer’ aid eventually expanding to claim the entirety of ‘Fringe Space’ including ‘Free Stellar Space’ I am sure of that.” [Harbinger said.]

“If that ever looked like it was going to happen we would have to confront them with ‘IF’. They could starve our industry into submission by cutting us off from our needed raw resources acting now is the lesser evil.” [Unholy said.]



[Location: Many Truths, Dark Coordinate, Near the Conglomerate Border, Fringe Space, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 19:40.][Date 16.02.04SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 16.02.01.]

[Although a great many ‘Conglomerate Recycler’ ships had made in the ‘Core Alliance’ stamped on their parts these days not all of them did. We were looking at a vast shipyard complex that belonged to Tssaxiss one of the names used by the now semi identified ‘Stellar Court Five Guardian’ Sleeper puppet regime.]

“This one is a perfect target - because it is not mobile - being locked in place by growing right out of that truly massive asteroid or should I call it a planetoid. Anyway that lump of rock still provides the majority of all the Shipyards required raw materials.” [Harbinger sends.]

“It is exceptionally heavily defended so much so that we planned to bypass it altogether as just too much trouble, however, Elder Harbinger believes it is vital that we either destroy this shipyard or better still capture it as a useful future asset of our new ‘Free Fringe Confederation’.” [Tleeboosuu sends.]

“It would make an ideal temporary Headquarters for the ‘Free Recycler’ government lately in exile. What I like about it is the fact that due to its immobility and high value it can be used to draw out a lot of those ‘Mercenary Navy’ units allied to the ‘Void Skimmers’ that have otherwise just been hitting and jumping. Tssaxiss will not willingly give that facility up cheaply it is the only place capable of easily handling the refit and repair of her largest vessels.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You are still convinced the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ Armada will not directly challenge your ‘MTC’ fleet yet.” [Tleeboosuu sends.]

“Not unless I give them no other choice. Right now, I think they will not be too desirous to escalate the war in our direction. I am convinced they will leave this fight to their allies and concentrate on their own targets (of which they have more than enough to be getting on with elsewhere).” [Harbinger sends.]

[Look at how they have shifted their focus of attacks they seem to have accepted the fact that ‘Conglomerate Space’ is going to be partitioned between several victors. The ‘Void Skimmers’ are proving more politically flexible and cunning than I ever imagined. In truth they might not even mind if this ally takes a bit of a beating as it will allow them to better control her in the immediate future.” [I send.]

“I almost hope you are wrong about that.” [Unholy sends.]

“I have spoken with Trend about this and he agrees with my ‘Many Truths’ assessments.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Well if Trend thinks it is so it must be.” [Unholy sends just a little sarcastically.]

“I trust Hierophant Trend’s analysis he is very good at what he does.” [Harbinger sends.]

“It is settled then I will act as liaison with the ‘Free Stellar’ command staff but this particular one will be Elder Harbinger’s operation. I pray the blessed lady of the waters gives you all safe passage on your future voyages.” [Tleeboosuu sends.]

“Sometimes I wonder how many names we have for the Emissary and whatever happened to her.” [I send.]

“On a good day I like to think she is always with us watching over our endeavours.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Something of a voyeur like you ‘Living Hulls’ always watching and listening in.” [Unholy sends with a yellow glow.]

“We only watch and listen in on some of you - others who think they are special and worth that effort - are really not that interesting.” [I send.]

[Unholy glowed yellow and let out a crude speaker laugh.]

“Well you asked for that.” [Harbinger sends.]



[Location: Many Truths, Dark Coordinate, Near the Conglomerate Border, Fringe Space, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 19:55.][Date 16.02.04SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 16.02.01.]

[Following jump scouts Harbinger dispatched three ‘MTC’ Missile Frigates along with a supporting Destroyer that immediately launched several wings of Alpha Drone Fighters.]

[As soon as they arrived our Missile Frigates let loose with a barrage of swarming Star Cascade cluster missiles and initiated Exit Destabilize Pulse Generators.]

[The auto acquiring and retargeting ordnance was prioritised to clear the protective screen of static defences belonging to the foes Shipyard both EDPG and point defence drop turrets. Three hundred missiles arched out and split into two thousand seven hundred self-guiding warheads each with a tiny ‘AM’ capability.]

[No gun based point defence system could have coped with those numbers however; the drop turrets here consisted of Recycler ‘Blue Streak’ Micro Missile launchers. We watched the cascading roll of explosive destruction as missile struck missile only a few of our targets succumbed to the barrage.]

“An impressive defence.” [Unholy said.]

[The ‘CMN’ (in-sector) patrol a Battleship with two Fast Attack Frigates and a Missile Frigate turned towards our invading forces. The enemy Missile Frigate immediately fired off its own Barrage at our strike group as the Battleship launched a substantive force of drones.]

[Luckily, our ships had jumped in well away from the patrol and far closer to one perimeter of the EDPG protective globe of anti jump devices. Watching the enemies swirling barrage of missiles approach like a swarm of glowing sparks we knew it was all about both timing and positioning.]

[Our strike group Missile Frigates having now calculated the drop turrets point defence capability opened every tube and launched between them a further nine hundred missiles in a long stream equating to eight thousand and one hundred self guiding warheads.]

[The ‘CMN’ static defences where reached first by our second barrage and unsurprisingly this time suffered being completely overwhelmed. EDPG defences and drop turrets blasted apart to make the desired glittering prize of spreading winking explosions.]

[Our two Missile Frigates then jumped out to a safe supply coordinate before the enemies barrage could hit leaving just our Destroyer behind.]

[Meanwhile our short range jump capable Alpha Drone Fighters made mini jumps across the sector also before the enemies missiles or drones could reach them. They arrived all around the enemy patrol just outside their EDPG range and raced in on fast direct attack vectors.]

[With good reason the ADF approach velocity was well in advance of anything a larger less manoeuvrable piloted ship would dare.]

[Our Destroyer waited to the last second before making its own mini jump to a new (in-sector) coordinate nearby. She was acting as a deliberate decoy to keep drawing away the enemies self seeking missile barrage.]

[‘Conglomerate Mercenary Navy’ point defences consisting of: Flak Cannons, Tight Focused Ion Disrupters and Mass Driver Chain Guns all sought to obliterate our Alpha Drone Fighters.]

[The Conglomerate Recyclers had opened up with everything they had in a desperate bid to clear away the swarm. They quickly weeded out a decent percentage. During their initial straight fast approach the ADF were not especially hard targets but after that, it was a different matter.]

[More Recycler Fighter Drones also launched to help against our drones while the Missile Frigate targeted our remote craft with a small barrage. The missile barrage arriving too late caused more friendly fire than anything else as our agile fighter drones began to skilfully surface skim their targets shields.]

[Cleverly our Alpha Drone Fighters used the enemies own bulk against them to shake and avoid turret lock on and the majority of all hostile incoming fire.]

[We guessed we would still take heavy ADF casualties but we also hoped they would last long enough to fulfil their mission. To our delight, their shots began to hit true against their very specifically designated targets: the Exit Destabilise Pulse Generator masts that these days had to sit just forward of any ships shields to have there maximum possible range of effect.]

[Before they could destroy every inhibitor using drone or, be able to retract repair and redeploy more EDPG masts our second wave of attackers this time capital ships (mostly Destroyers) jumped onto them well within Tri-gun and just within CWE turret weapons range.]

[Coil Wrecker Emitters hit the ‘Conglomerate’ ships (preventing them from trying to use their jump engines unless they wanted them fused into a useless pile of junk). Our short range from our targets helped heavy duty Leech Torpedoes to make it to the foes shields. Latching on they commenced draining the big nested devices power out into space. Tri-gun turrets running at their deadly maximum rate of fire ripped into the same now weakened shields and began to blast chunks out of ‘CMN’ hulls. None of our ships was sparing its ammunition supplies.]

[Our own ships also began to take a pounding but due to outnumbering the enemy and splitting their foes firepower the ‘MTC’ crafts shields were holding up pretty well (although they did take some raking direct mass driver hits that passed straight through their shields to strike ‘Living Hull’ flesh, armour and superstructure).]

[Luckily, due to modifications made to our ‘Living Hulls’ internal armour because of our experiences fighting against ‘Splinter Raiders’ we did not suffer as much from mass driver hits as we once did.]

[Singled out as the immediate threat the ‘CMN’ Missile Frigate was the first craft to erupt. However, it was clear the other ‘CMN’ ships would quickly follow the Missile Frigate in its journey to oblivion unless something radical could save them.]

[Without doubt once again our dedicated Beta Clone Gunners proved their superior skills. As soon as the enemies shields dropped our shots became very precise taking out turrets first then engines then overall hull integrity.]

[Resisting her only other option - complete capitulation - the commander of the Battleship shed a horrific number of mines and self-destructed his non-living ship.]

[The resulting flare cleanly took out one of our Destroyers that had been far too close to escape the mine enhanced blast radius. The wider conflagration of angry energies also crippled another Destroyer (it looked dead and was in agony but had in fact just barely avoided destruction).]

[I marked the killed ‘Living Hull’ down on the rolls of remembrance it had been named as the ‘Brave Response’ the badly wounded ship was the ‘Golden Skinned’ a long list of ‘MTC’ Acolytes had died onboard both those vessels they would also be remembered with pride.]

[It felt like a painful lesson well learned; clearly, the ‘Conglomerate’ forces understood this was an all out battle without any quarter. I grieved for the ‘Living Hull’ and the Acolytes but I knew that full on conflict always took a toll on its propagators - mistakes would be too common - especially at the beginning of a new enterprise.]

[Manipulation fields latched on and the wounded ‘Living Hull’ was Jump Locked to safety. In a way, that extraction made me happy: it meant whatever happened to the rest of us I could guarantee at least one of our ‘MTC’ ‘Living Hull’ Fleet this Golden Skinned would survive this day.]

[Meanwhile a new ‘MTC ‘attack group including ourselves jumped inside the cleared EDPG field now just full of particulate debris and a degree of ‘Anomalous Matter’ radiation. We began our assault against the Shipyard moving in slowly underneath one of our Super Dreadnaught Decoy ships called appropriately the ‘Shield of the Faithful’.]

[The station fired off a substantial missile and torpedo barrage against us. We countered with Whirlwind anti missile micro missiles.]

“I am beginning to think they are not going to show.” [Unholy said anxiously as long seconds passed.]

“Well I disagree and our stealth drones are in place.” [Harbinger said.]

“There goes our own first missile barrage against the stations shields and close perimeter TTFID turret defences.” [Harbinger replied.]

“Here comes there long range response.” [I said.]

“Impressive but with so many ships our modified whirlwind counter measures should be able to cope even against that number of torpedoes and missiles.” [Harbinger said.]

“I hope so look they are still firing ordnance it is a constant stream - I hate enemy missiles and torpedoes. Anything else showing up on your ‘MTC’ forces advanced sensor masts?” [Unholy asked.]

“No but the Anomalous Radiation is making a lot of noise out there and we are having to rotate and repair damaged masts as we go.” [I broadcast.]

“I wondered if that would be a problem in intense fleet actions.” [Unholy said.]

“Still against Ghost Torpedoes all that radiation might work in our favour helping to disrupt the Recyclers imperfect stealth systems.” [I broadcast.]

“Imperfect compared to what and I do not like the word ‘might’.” [Unholy said.]

“Imperfect compared to our Paradox stealth around Anomalous radiation.” [I broadcast.]

“Look at that pyrotechnic display. Are you sure that we have enough anti missile ordnance? We are bunched too tight to use ‘Living Hull Shockwaves’.” [Unholy noted.]

“With this fleet - at this time - I am positive we have enough Whirlwind.” [Harbinger replied.]

“Still no sign of any ghosts.” [I said.]

“It is a good thing we are used to working with ‘Anomalous Matter’ radiation.” [Harbinger stated.]

“It is wonderful to know all your and other Paradox Priest’s esoteric researches had some useful applications after all.” [Unholy replied glowing yellow.]

[I wondered was he making conversation to take his mind off the insane firestorm raging outside that threatened to engulf us. The number of missiles and torpedoes leaving the shipyard was a revelation.]

“Trust you to only see the value of science in relation to war time applications.” [Harbinger said calmly glowing yellow.]

“Some of that stuff is beginning to get through our defences Harbinger.” [Unholy warned.]

“Relax they have prioritised the ‘Shield of the Faithful’ - just like I hoped they would - it was built to take it.” [Harbinger said.]

“I wouldn’t like to be watching that thing bearing down upon me. Is there still no sign of a ‘CMN’ relief fleet?” [Unholy said.]

“Believe me they are out there just waiting for what they think is the right moment to strike at us.” [Harbinger said.]

“I hate waiting on others. How is the Marine infiltration going.” [Unholy said.]

“Perfectly my small Avatar Spearhead unit are just reaching the shield now. They are waiting on us bringing that down for a moment.” [Harbinger explained.]

“So they can blast a small hole in the hull and get inside. Seems like doing things the hard way if you ask me.” [Unholy said.]

“We don’t want to do too much damage to the place - besides - this way our intrusion should just look like a lucky weapon or missile strike.” [Harbinger said.]

“Stealth over brute force but you will have to be careful not to overdo it when you drop the shields.” [Unholy said.]

“It is vital we hide the fact that their station has been compromised.” [I said.]

“You fear they might self-destruct.” [Unholy replied.]

“Once I have located and disarmed their primary self-destruct mechanisms we can board the place properly in force using Jump Marines.” [Harbinger explained.]

“This way Unholy even if my Captain fails and we lose the Shipyard to a Sleeper intervention only a few ‘Shroud Suits’ will be destroyed not a large force of Acolytes.” [I broadcast.]

“I am hoping the Recyclers will not realise we can squeeze into such a small hull breach. Normally they would be right if a Paradox was physically in those Suits it would not be possible.” [Harbinger said.]

“Clever.” [Unholy said.]

“Still, if this is going to work it is going to take some careful damage calculations and we need the enemy to show up soon or the people on that shipyard will start to ask some unhealthy questions.” [Harbinger said.]

“Like why we have not just blasted them to ‘Hell’s Maw’ with your non existent super weapon.” [Unholy said.]

“Exactly, I am hoping they will think our slow approach is Paradox arrogance and intimidation: look here we come to finish you off with our super weapon just to demonstrate that we can - not to mention using them to shake down our systems with a little target practice.” [Harbinger stated glowing yellow.]

“I suppose they might well believe something like that since they have not detected Paradox Marines cutting into their hull, the use of breaching pods, or any jump troop warp signatures.” [Unholy said.]

“That is why we are blasting our way in as soon as the shield drops with a single micro missile.” [Harbinger said.]

“We are almost at our fictitious main gun weapons range Captain.” [I send in warning.]

“If they are coming they are cutting it close.” [Unholy said.]

“Begin the barrage against their shields start the fake Raw Energy Siphon power up cycle on the SD Decoy.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Fake RES are powering.” [I send.]

[A claxon sounded.]

“Finally our enemies have jumped in to play with us.” [Unholy shouted.]

“Thank the Emissary for that.” [Harbinger said.]

“Our drones in range are dropping stealth and deploying jump inhibitors.” [Harbinger said.]

“Engage, engage, engage.” [Harbinger broadcast.]

[To say the night lit up would be an understatement as our second fleet jumped in behind the enemy while the enemy mostly Destroyers and Heavy Cruisers accelerated hard towards us. It was immediately obvious that they were firing everything they could unleash our way. At first, the attack only consisted of missiles and torpedoes due to their initial range. Almost all the incoming fire rocketed towards our SD Decoy the massive ‘Shield of the Faithful’.]

[Amusingly the enemy had arrived exactly were expected on the other side of ‘Shield of the Faithful’ just within missile and torpedo range. The bulk of our own Super Dreadnaught blocked any chance of the ships beneath it from firing back including me. Obviously, they planned to take out our biggest ships shields and hit it while its Raw Energy Siphons were fully active which would cause them to explode in a truly catastrophic manner taking many of us with it. Our enemy had fully taken the bait so carefully offered up to them.]

[Soon almost every ship on all sides came under the influence of either Coil Wrecker Emitters or just plain old Jump Inhibitors.]

[Missiles, torpedoes, drones a plethora of energy and ammunition using turret fire, and even potent main gun beams passed each other or collided. ‘Shield of the Faithful’ began channelling energy from hits into hastily jettisoning full energy sinks that acted as dumb fire proximity fused area effect missiles. It was doing a wondrous job of utterly refusing to submit to any damage whatsoever its shields remained stubbornly inviolate even if its racked automatically delivered energy sink stocks were being reduced at a scary rate.]

[The ‘CMN’ were not faring anything like as well. I could imagine the shock of the commander on the lead enemy Dreadnaughts Bridge when their target simply refused to buckle and die under what was a truly horrendous barrage of force that really should have collapsed its shields and ripped it apart despite its outsized dimensions.]

[All around him his ships who had wasted their prime efforts on the ’Shield of the Faithful’ commenced to be overwhelmed by our second fleet taking damage even exploding. The enemy Dreadnaught taking hit after hit began to turn ponderously around.]

“He is going to try to strike the Shield of the Faithful’ with his main guns and possibly follow that up by ramming it look that Dreadnaught has a heavily reinforced bow section.” [Unholy warned.]

“Slow that enemy Dreadnaught with manipulation fields and prioritise its engines when its shields fail.” [Harbinger ordered his fleet.]

[Meanwhile during the fracas, the Shipyards powerful nested shields finally dropped allowing Harbinger’s ‘Shroud Suit’ Avatars to make their hasty entry.]

[The Avatars began worming through the ‘Conglomerate Recycler’ shipyards innards towards where they had been relayed their targets should be via a hasty flyby ADF scan.]

[I watched via borrowed Tri-optics as the enemy Dreadnaughts movement was skilfully impeded, its shields where then rent away, its engines disabled, its turrets shot up, then only after all that its hull integrity began to be purposely degraded as its entire super structure started to collapse inward. What little was left was finally blasted into angry atoms. I had not personally fired a single shot during this entire mission yet the battle looked - rather alarmingly - as if it was just about over.]

[I was not sorry about the end of the conflict I was worried about the timing.]

“Not good, we must be well ahead of schedule.” [Unholy said as if reading my thoughts.]

[The enemy had left itself wide open to a hasty destruction by striving above all else to kill our Super Dreadnaught. Of course, if they had penetrated our Decoys shield and the RES had been real they would have succeeded in exploding the ‘Shield of the Faithful’. If those RES had blown, the ‘Conglomerate’ might well have been celebrating an imminent victory instead of us. In my mind the enemy commander had made good choices given the data he had at his disposal - I felt sorry for him - it almost seemed an unfair victory.]

[Nonetheless, it was now far too quiet. Our attentions turned towards the shipyard that had rather suddenly ceased spewing out missiles and torpedoes and now looked oddly serene.]

[An explosion then another and another the Shipyard commenced to tear itself apart with a series of detonations and then they all became one almighty flare of light and energy that cast a significant shockwave throughout our fleet. Pushed around by the blast all our ships had to make several hard manoeuvres to avoid collisions some failed and suffered a little damage one ‘MTC’ fast attack frigate called ‘Sleeker by Design’ was actually destroyed when it smashed hard into the ‘Shield of the Faithful’.]

“That was a rough disconnection of threads; if only I had been given just a little more time to find and halt the self-destruct.” [Harbinger sends to me.]

“They certainly did not want that station to fall into our hands.” [I send.]

“Did you see that?” [Unholy asked.]

“See what?” [Harbinger replied.]

“These ‘Conglomerate Recyclers’ are insane Harbinger.” [Unholy said.]

“In what way Unholy what is bothering you?” [Harbinger asked.]

“They didn‘t even launch a single ship, shuttle or life pod from that entire Shipyard before blowing it up.” [Unholy said in shock.]

“I would imagine the digital Sleeper in charge never gave the poor souls onboard that option.” [I said as Vested.]

“The whole place was sealed up tight inside.” [Harbinger admitted.]

“Such actions towards your own populace is beyond being reprehensible it is… I do not know what it is - I am lost for words.” [Unholy said angrily.]

“Vile would be the descriptive I would use.” [I said through my Avatar.]

“I really was hoping to take that Shipyard. I expected a much larger counter attack the ‘Five Guardians’ must be harder pressed and thinner spread than I imagined.” [Harbinger admitted.]

“What do we do now?” [Unholy asked.]

“Re-supply our forces and pick another target I suppose, keep pushing at them.” [Harbinger said.]

“That will not be so easy if we want to primarily hunt ‘Stellar Court’ allied ‘CMN’ forces I am getting reports from Tleeboosuu that our targets are increasingly jumping into the dark.” [I broadcast.]

“How can we find them?” [Unholy asked.]

[Harbinger thought about that for a moment.]

“What we need is a Sleeper on our side.” [Harbinger said.]

“Are you serious Captain.” [I send.]

“Interesting, but why would any Sleeper work with us.” [Unholy asked.]

“Simply because we might be its only chance for survival outside of living as a hunted renegade.” [Harbinger said.]

“You would work with a Sleeper after what you have just seen?” [I said as Vested.]

“I would allow it to live in a protected Core but with no external access to the ES proper. I will even guarantee its survival as long as the Paradox exist so long as it remains in its own little cyber universe. Then if we ever die out as a species it can be released.” [Harbinger said.]

“Do you think it would agree to such a limited existence?” [Unholy asked.]

“They are obsessed with survival I think one or two might bite if they feel under a high enough threat of extinction. The only way to find out is to ask.” [Harbinger said.]

“Jump us out to rally point Delta ‘MT’ there is nothing else for us here. Right now we need to bask and re-supply.” [Harbinger said.]

“You are full of mad ideas at the moment Harbinger. Still I suppose approaching the Sleepers might be worth a try. You think they will still be able to locate their turncoat sisters forces no matter where they go?” [Unholy asked.]

“I think it might be a real possibility if they cannot then that will be good to know as well.” [Harbinger said.]

“You believe they will talk to us.” [I send.]

“We can patch into their communications via a series of fire walled connections through our old defunct warp satellite network. Let us see if we can raise any interest. If they do not show us some alternative targets then we will just have to start picking on them instead. I think they should know the position they are in and I imagine they have more than enough trouble already. I doubt the ‘Free Stellar’ or the ‘Stellar Court’ or even the ‘Splinter Raiders’ will give them as generous an offer.” [Harbinger said.]

“Speaking of the ‘Splinter Raiders’ Harbinger they have been very quiet not a single reported engagement since the destruction of the Fourth Fleet.” [I send.]

“That sounds like future trouble.” [Harbinger sends to me.]

“What are you thinking that they are waiting to hit the weakened survivors.” [I send.]

“I know one thing I will not be sending any substantial ‘MTC’ forces into scan defeating nebulae anytime soon.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Still perhaps we should leave worrying about the ‘Splinter’ to later.” [I send.]

“Yes right now we need to halt the ‘Skimmer’ gains they are getting a new momentum.” [Harbinger said.]

“Notice they have created a new Fourth Fleet out of the other three active ones they are intent on keeping two full fleets back in reserve.” [I send.]

“They are proving better strategists than I imagined.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I suppose a sealed Paradox Core would give a few Sleepers a lot of room to play in but a prison - no matter how spacious - is still a prison.” [I send.]

“We will sell it to them as a survival bunker for a time when organic existence has moved on from these regions and is content to let them be.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Why would they trust us to look after them?” [I send.]

“What other options do they have? If they flee, after what we have seen here we will have to hunt them down as a future risk to organic life. Besides do not think the ‘Skimmers’ will be content to let it go? Remember they still need to satisfy their indignation at Draakhaal’s assassination.” [Harbinger sends.]

“It is easy to get lost in the dark if you do not seek others out. We delude ourselves that we have explored a lot of this Universe but in truth we are all living in little isolated groups in a vast emptiness.” [I send.]

“Nonetheless there is a lot of traffic and monitoring going on.” [Harbinger said.]

“You are deluding yourself Captain I think all the races with the exception of us ‘Living Hulls’ delude themselves. You cannot accept the real scale involved in the ‘Emissary Sphere’ the Universe is vast it bends your minds.” [I send.]

“Well even if you are right the Sleepers will be under the same delusion.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I suppose that is possible, the ‘Five Guardians’ will not quit looking for their kin either; they will fear them.” [I send.]

“Exactly, the Loyalist Sleepers will need our current and future protection against the ‘Void Skimmers’ and their betraying kin.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Be careful Harbinger it is clear these creatures cannot be trusted they are masters of betrayal and deception.” [I send.]

“I plan to take every possible precaution. If they ever betray us they will regret it.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I still think this is unwise Captain.” [I send.]

“Sometimes being wise is not enough sometimes you can have more success playing the reckless fool ask Unholy? Now open up a channel and let us see who wants to continue to exist and who has given in to despair.” [Harbinger sends.]



[At first, the negotiations did not go well. Our threats of their potential imminent extinction refused to intimidate the Sleepers and they did not buy into the sealed Core idea at all - I was right they did not trust us to be their protectors. Then Harbinger explained that in return for aid in helping to find ‘Five Guardian’ dark coordinate positions we would reciprocate by relaying the coordinates of some ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ forces (on a suitably comparative value trade-by-trade basis).]

[An infamous deal was struck the ‘Free Fringe’ was given a plethora of target coordinates and the ‘CMN’ Sleeper loyalists were given in return the positions of the two ‘Void Skimmer’ reserve fleets.]



[Taken by surprise safe in their Dark Coordinate the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ reserve fleets made better than prime targets. Being in the dark, but under our observation we knew they had stupidly opted not to initiate EDPG defences possibly because the flares could potentially be detected visually - that was a big mistake - the result was two massacres.]

[The ‘CMN’ jumped old disposable assets right into the ‘Void Skimmers’ midst and opened up with everything they could mount or fire mostly heavy duty missiles and torpedoes but also large seeker mines. They also employed Coil Wrecker Emitters and ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ AGAEP Main Gun defeating Trojan Tight Focused Ion Disruptors.]

[Both ‘Void Skimmer’ fleets where wiped off the boards so quickly that all they managed to do was power up their RES and get emergency calls out. Several Recycler ships were lost (mostly due to their proximity to RES eruptions) but they were antiquated vessels long outdated and would hardly be missed by the Sleepers. The ‘CMN’ had proved they still had some teeth and Harbinger had shown he was a very dangerous Paradox to know and dismiss.]

[Harbinger put all our Exogenous spies on hair self-destructs to ensure his participation in revealing the ‘Void Skimmers’ positions would not become known prematurely. He told me he fully expected the Sleepers would betray our actions eventually. Nonetheless, we both hoped such revelations would arrive when the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ would have to live with our duplicity for wider political reasons.]

[As we moved on our own targets my Captain tried to get our pet Sleepers to help us capture rather than destroy ‘Five Guardian’ assets but they refused. Although they did aid us on occasion to fix targets in place they only prevented them from jumping away when we promised to destroy not endeavour to seize.]

[Despite every one of our victories against the ‘Five Guardians’ being a boon to the Loyalist ‘CMN’ cause; our Sleeper allies remained less than enthusiastic associates. Mostly we employed stealthy ADF with inhibitors as a temporary measure to fix targets in place. The ADF had to drop their stealth to initiate inhibitors that caused heavy losses among our drones but they usually managed to last long enough for our capital ships to get in and finish our grizzly work.]

[Where we or other Paradox Corporate forces intervened, the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ withdrew or chose not to show at all only ‘Five Guardian’ aligned Mercenary Navy units occasionally came out to fight us. However, they tended to avoid pitch battles in favour of ambush and hit and jump tactics.]

[Less politically connected warriors were not so blessed and faced the ‘Void Skimmers’ wrath head on. Soon the ‘Void Skimmers’ discovered their AGAEP weakness the hard way losing another Fleet. However, after the destruction of the First Fleet, there were no more easy victories. It was obvious the ‘Skimmers’ were not amused at their losses especially the destruction of their reserve fleets. In belated ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ engagements, the fighting became fierce and the outcome did not vary from incident to incident. When faced by ‘Void Master Living Hulls’ our allies lost sometimes with light casualties sometimes with heavy casualties but the war was becoming expensive on all sides.]

[Luckily clashes also began to decrease in frequency rather rapidly. As more mercenary allies began to arrive areas were no longer cleansed and abandoned they were held and their resources opened up for exploitation and payment.]

[After a ‘Five Guardian’ fleet ran into an ‘Omerta’ patrol and was wiped out, any serious incursions stopped.]

[‘Conglomerate Space’ was split three ways between the ‘Five Guardians’ the ‘Free Stellar’ and the ‘Free Recyclers’.]

[A lot of new won ‘Free Stellar Space’ was actually reclaimed territories that had been lost to them earlier but they also made some substantial gains. In size ‘Free Stellar Space’ became approximately twice the size of any rivals holdings but was not as densely populated or as well defended.]

[The short but vicious War began to be called the ‘Five Guardian’s Campaign’ or the ‘Five Day War’. The Splinter did not appear to claim any reward for their past services when sought they could not be found they had simply disappearance without trace - a deep mystery.]

[As soon as the borders began to firm up and any further intrusion would mean our ‘MTC’ forces facing off against the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ Void Masters in open battle we ceased aggressive operations and began simply patrolling what we had helped claim.]

[After just five days of fighting the uneasy peace held as everyone commenced to consolidate and fortify their holdings. No official cessation of hostilities was ever signed but apart from occasional raids by opportunists the War was over.]

[Much to our surprise despite their great victory against the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ reserves, the loyalist ‘Conglomerate Mercenary Navy’ appeared to have quit known space along with their Sleeper commanders they disappearing into the deepest of darks.]



[Location: Many Truths, Justified Conquest, Free Recycler Space, Fringe Space, Emissary Sphere.]

[Time: 10:14.][Date 22.02.04SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 22.02.01.]

“I have to say that ‘Shield of the Faithful’ of yours has impressed me it seems invulnerable.” [Unholy said clearly a bit awed.]

“Hardly un-killable but as long as its supplies of disposable energy sinks hold out it should survive just about anything thrown at it - that I know about with the exception of a Splinter ‘AM’ Supernova.” [Harbinger said.]

[The Supernova was the name being given to the Splinters rapid ‘Anomalous Matter’ assaults that had wiped out all opposition in a few engagements including the Fourth Fleet. However, the exact nature / means of deployment of this ‘Anomalous Matter’ devastation remained unknown.]

“Somehow you and Cad have redirected all incoming shield damage straight to the sinks thus preventing any shield depletion.” [Unholy said.]

“It employs a subtle new leech effect upon shield hit’s a lattice of tiny shield penetrating spines that extrude out from the hull drawing all the destructive energy away to the grounding sinks via massively capable power conduits.” [Harbinger explained.]

“Can this technology be adapted to other ‘Living Hulls’?” [Unholy asked.]

“It can and will be but never as effectively as my purpose built monsters. The mechanisms involved take up a lot of hull space which is another reason why my SD Decoys are so big and that is not even counting the storage space needed for a steady supply of mechanised disposable energy sinks.” [Harbinger stated.]

“Cad is scary and he willingly shared this technology with you?” [Unholy asked.]

“The Hierophants and my ‘MTC’ have several joint projects as well as our own individual research and development.” [Harbinger replied.]

“So what do you know about the make up of Cad’s personal fleet?” [Unholy asked.]

“Very little Unholy beyond the units he openly supplies to ‘IF’ Cad’s current capability remains unknown. A rumour that he has other stuff has been around for a while but if Cad does, he keeps them hidden inside the ‘Stellar Orb’ poisoned sea - they remain a mystery yet to be revealed a fine subject for wild speculations.” [Harbinger said.]

“Speaking of speculations I wonder where the Sleepers have gone.” [Unholy said changing the subject.]

“I do not know but I fear we have not seen the last of the ‘Loyalist Sleepers’ or the ‘Splinter Raiders’.” [Harbinger answered.]

“Committing genocide in this day and age is obviously not as easy as it used to be.” [Unholy said with a fluttering yellow smirk.]

“Do you think it was ever easy?” [Harbinger asked.]

“Maybe not it was just a figure of speech.” [Unholy stated glowing yellow.]

“The Hierophant’s have a saying that ‘all is well that ends well’ I never before realised how pernicious that could be as a philosophy.” [I said as Vested Interest.]

“Do you really think they will come back?” [Unholy said.]

“Who the ‘Splinter’ or the ‘Sleepers’?” [Harbinger asked.]

“The ‘Sleepers’ I imagine the ‘Splinter’ are just hiding in their Harbours for some reason probably in those scan defeating nebulae who is going to look there now?” [Unholy said.]

“If the ‘Sleepers’ are wise they will stay away they have used up their welcome in ‘Core Alliance’ and ‘Fringe Space’.” [I said through my Avatar Vested.]

“I don’t know they came in pretty handy there for a while. They make good pets if you can keep them on a strong enough leash.” [Unholy said.]

“I wonder is the ‘Stellar Courts’ leash on the ‘Five Guardians’ strong enough.” [Harbinger said.]

“Now that is a very good question brother. Do you think we can hold these new borders?” [Unholy said.]

“I have no idea the disappearance of the ‘Splinter’ and the ‘Loyalist CMN’ worries me it is difficult to protect against an unseen menace.” [Harbinger said.]

“Do you think there could be a connection.” [I privately send.]

“I hope not.” [Harbinger sends.]

“What can we do?” [I send.]

“Keep scouts out looking for them just like the ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ are doing.” [Harbinger sends.]

“It is a pity you failed to tag the ‘Loyalist CMN’ fleet.” [Unholy said.]

“Unlike the ‘Void Skimmers’ the ‘Loyalist Conglomerate’ forces never really gave my Observer Corp any opportunity to bug them.” [Harbinger said.]

“The ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ still have no idea you sold them out?” [Unholy asked.]

“Not as far as I know.” [Harbinger said.]

“I am very disappointed at how this one has gone. I cannot decide if we won lost or it was a draw. I would give anything for a clean clear victory especially against the ‘Skimmers’.” [Unholy said.]

“I fear our days of clean clear victories may be behind us. I agree the jury is still out in relation to the winner of this campaign though in a way we all made gains at the ‘Loyalist Conglomerates’ expense.” [Harbinger said.]

“How do you believe you stand politically?” [Unholy asked.]

“Actually I am in surprisingly good shape with the ‘Council of Equals’ at the moment by bringing in other Paradox Corporations to this one I have managed to gain some unexpected new allies and leverage there despite the ‘Peace Process’ disaster and my old alliance with Creed looking a bit shaky at the moment.” [Harbinger said.]

“Creed worries me sometimes I am sure he has his own agenda.” [Unholy said.]

“We all have our own agendas brother. As to the Parliament due to the fear engendered by the ‘Void Skimmers’ and the temporary state of emergency including the reinstatement of the Cadre and the Legion, I should be in good standing there as well. That just leaves the ‘Stellar Court’ amusingly they should be grateful too when I hand them the ‘Three Hundred’ besides if I had not proposed the ‘Peace Mission’ they would not have their direct access to ‘Fringe Space’ resources (not that I intended or wanted such an outcome).” [Harbinger said.]

“Still brother you will work with what you have been given. You know something odd your and the ‘Stellar Draakhaals’ ascension seems to be firmly linked together: despite your endless hidden enmity and recent public friendship having odd consequences.” [Unholy said.]

“I never really thought of it quite like that.” [Harbinger said.]

“Maybe you should.” [I said believing Unholy had made an interesting point.]

“The shape of our ‘Core Alliance’ has been changed forever by this short conflict. It will mark the end of our direct interdiction against ‘Stellar Draakhaal’ combat craft.” [Unholy said.]

“I know I fear the cold war arms race is about to escalate again.” [Harbinger said.]

“Your ‘MTC’ should profit from that as well.” [Unholy said.]

“I am not sure what to do about that. Sometimes it feels like my ‘MTC’ has become a monster with a life of its own that is barely under my control.” [Harbinger sends privately to Unholy.]

“You just hate all that responsibility a little part of you misses the old days of gallivanting around the Universe finding and studying anomalies.” [Unholy sends.]

“More like a large part of me.” [Harbinger confessed.]

“All those missiles, torpedoes and drones make me feel that my old way of fighting has become completely obsolete.” [Unholy sends.]

“Change comes to us all Unholy I am sure you will be able to adapt just as well as I did.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I don’t know look at you Harbinger look at the other ‘Great Paradox Houses’ and look at me all on my own.” [Unholy sends.]

“Great Paradox Houses?” [Harbinger sends.]

“The new families with numberless Acolyte workers did you not realise they have a specific label now to separate them from more traditional smaller Priest and Acolyte ‘Family Holds’.” [Unholy sends.]

“I am not sure I like the sound of these new tags. The term ‘Holds’ sounds suspiciously defensive like a way of living put under threat.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Like it or not I am not the first to use these descriptive labels nor am I likely to be the last. Some of our old ways are under threat of extinction I am not sure what the future will bring anymore.” [Unholy explained.]

“You are worrying me preventing my family from being misconstrued can be a hard enough task at the best of times.” [Harbinger sends.]

“Using your assets so openly and forcefully (the deeds of the past few days) have hardly gone unnoticed. Your family’s fame and notoriety is spreading and will I am sure only continue to grow.” [Unholy sends.]

“That is not what I want at all.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You do realise your family is starting to be regarded as perhaps the first and the greatest of the ‘Great Paradox Houses’. Your victories and bold actions are stirring up a degree of patriotic pride.” [Unholy sends.]

“Now I definitely do not like the sound of that and how do you know these things.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I have other friends Harbinger (not as close as you and me) but friends nonetheless. Remember that old wisdom every victory has its cost Elder Priest Harbinger of the ‘Many Truth’s Corporation’.” [Unholy sends glowing yellow.]

“So it would seem. Sometimes I hate my ‘MTC’. I suppose I did not fully consider how this adventure would expose the family to outside scrutiny.” [Harbinger confessed.]

“I know seeing your ‘MTC’ in action has brought home to me just how much my old friends have moved on whilst I have moved backwards. You know almost all I have left is this ‘Shroud Suit’.” [Unholy sends slumping.]

“Nonsense all that I have is yours as well. Would you like a big family of your own to be one of these ‘Great Paradox Houses’ as you call them?” [Harbinger sends.]

[Unholy went silent for a few moments.]

“To be honest, old friend not really I would not know what do with all those Acolytes.” [Unholy sends in reply.]

“Then what is your problem? You should be happy to be free. Do you think all this is fun for me? If you want the truth, I am sick and tired of it but I feel responsible for the state of the ‘Core Alliance’. I found the ‘Stellar Orb’ I helped create this strange setup. In a way I am guilty of aiding and abetting in the creation of the ‘Void Skimmers’ and if Stage III ever happens it will be my failure that allowed it.” [Harbinger sends.]

“You take on too much Harbinger (under such a burden you will break) no individual is accountable for every ill not even our arch enemy Draakhaal may his shrivelled much copied soul wither and expire. I have always admired your breadth of vision and resolve but you can go too far sometimes. Allow some of the rest of us to take a little share of the credit and the blame as well. You are only one Paradox Priest Harbinger no matter how many Avatars your soul inhabits.” [Unholy said.]

“Thank you sometimes despite all that I have even with my precious companion-ship link I still feel… well I still feel…” [Harbinger trailed off.]

“You still feel alone; do not feel ashamed to admit it. This can be an empty universe and surrounding yourself with people is not always enough to bridge the gaps that exist between our ‘Shroud Suit’ armoured souls.” [Unholy sends.]

“You have grown poetic in your pain.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I fear you are right on a bad day I can be a horribly melancholic warrior. We are a lonely species Harbinger each of us isolated inside a ‘Shroud Suit’ hiding what we really are from each other. They make us to be independent but also to be subservient to our fathers and part of something bigger our families and their vision. Then we become adults and split so we make new families and find new visions of our own but it is never quite the same is it? Something is always lost and left behind so we search and search for what we cast off the easy contentment of our youth - our connection to the illusion of something perfect and bigger than ourselves - maybe that is truly why we are all Priests.” [Unholy sends.]

“I am sorry Unholy I have no right to trouble you. I know you have lost so much and this is foolish of me. I have it all - I have everything - and yet sometimes none of what I have seems to matter. I know I am an ingrate who should know better.” [Harbinger sends.]

“When you have faced death and survived and when you have dispatched a great many enemies it is not unusual to consider your place in the Universe and to feel a little vexed. The ‘Emissary Sphere’ can be a cold unforgiving place but I have always felt honoured to be your friend if that helps to warm you a little.” [Unholy sends.]

“Of course, it helps you honour me in every way. You have stood by me when I have made mistakes and I know you will stand by me even if I make more.” [Harbinger sends.]

“I would have said that of you brother. Whatever comes in the future like your ‘Many Truths’ I will always be with you we have seen and done too much together to part ranks. I promise not to split from your family or to judge you too harshly.” [Unholy sends.]

“Such promises can be dangerous. Still there is no doubt about it I am an ingrate and a fool and for all your rough ways you are a better Priest in your soul Unholy than you will ever admit.” [Harbinger sends.]

[Thus spoke my Captain as beautiful and as flawed a sentient being as any you would be likely to meet in this ‘Emissary Sphere’ or any other universe.]



[[The end of Book III.]]



[[I know a lot is unresolved here nonetheless, this felt like the right place to conclude this part of my story which I have decided to extend to a Book IV unless you all cry nay.]]

[[Book III belatedly became a middle book when I realised some plot threads and other developments I wished to see through would not naturally mature within the current timeline (I confess I also had some new ideas).]]

[[The wider story will recommence twenty-five years in the future from Date 22.02.29SA (Second Accord). 9th PA 22.02.26.]]


****comments on this last Chapter (pts I and II) and Bk III are more than welcome****

[Snowship]

Nice little flashbacks there Paranoid, Pity they could get the shipyard.
Like how they had a lot of introspection of the past and themselves. Wonder what'll happen with the sleeper's and splinters.

Can't wait to start the next one

Overall I thought this one had a more fractured flow than books I & II although it did have more content and variety (maybe the latter was a contributing factor to it's sense of overloading, too much different spices in the pot ). And maybe the jumping around of the past/current, core/tier II could have been done as chapters more than split up in the chapter themselves, esp Tier II & Core storylines.

It was still a good read and I can't wait to see how MT & Harbringer's relationship further develops/splits in Book IV