The Evon Experience

[MutantLavaLamp]

Ok, I get it

It's just I do exactly what happens in the game, I don't like to bend the facts

That's also why I type after each turn to make sure of accuracy too, it's a sickness

[Zorromorph]

GREAT STUFF!!

I'm voraciously reading this(which is to say im just over half-way through now) in-between playing/writing my own(Meklar Menace -- shameless plug), and am very impressed with your ability to inject 'human' stories into the reports. An excellent story with some cool challenges so far. Death to your enemies!

[Alex Poff]

Chapter 5

Over the next few years there were some interesting developments, expected results and diabolical events that took place.

The Meklar war went extremely well. Coilis and Hektar were victorious in their assaults in the southwestern hemisphere of the galaxy, taking only five more years to successfully eliminate the Meklar and all other species from that sector of space. Coilis had marched from Thales north to Butain and west to Alinya conquering both systems and effectively cut off the Assallus system, which had been the original final destination and focus of his bet with Hektar. Coilis had then used a two-pronged assault on the Assallus system, attacking from Thales to the east and Alinya to the north. The Meklar fleets in Assallus never stood a chance, as the pincer movement employed worked to perfection, two separate fleets of five TF’s each entering the system through different jump lanes at exactly the same time.

Hektar, as indicated, had been just as successful, but unfortunately, with respect to the bet, had taken slightly longer to complete his mission. The two systems that were “dead-ended” beyond Nostrum had held multiple planets and were all controlled by different species. The Nommo, in particular, had massed thousands of ships in defense of the few planets they held and had been relentless in their defense. As we had found to be the case, however, it was the ground battles that had taken the longest. The High Council was adamant in their stance of conquering “intact” planets. It was practically impossible to argue the point. A fully developed world, once our military command was instituted, was capable of producing Titan class ships almost immediately whereas a newly colonized world would literally take decades to develop. Hektar could only listen via interstellar communicator and good-naturedly grumble as Coilis received confirmation of Assallus III’s final capitulation. “Makin’ the reservation as we speak, buddy!” said Coilis. “Make one for me too, you jackass”, laughed Hektar. “Just ‘cause you won the bet don’t mean that I ain’t goin’ with you!”

Labon was very pleased. Too bad he was going to have to delay their vacation, at least for a short while. To the north of Alinya lay the Drakka system and this system was the last one held by the Meklar in the southwestern hemisphere. The remainder of their Empire lay further to the north and center of the galaxy, beyond Trilarian space via Juta. It only made sense to eliminate the Meklar entirely in the southwest. This also would bring us one system closer to one of the final areas of space where the remnants of the Psilons lay, in and amongst Nommo systems in the center-west of the galaxy. After the surprise attack on Tovam in Gadoquat, both Labon and Lebak had privately discussed, once again, the final and complete annihilation of the Psilons. They both were very aware of the potential for public discontent for this action, but after the attack both felt that it would be more than justified.

Lebak also had another angle that could be played to sway public opinion, but it was one that he wished he didn’t have an opportunity to use. Since the beginning of our war with the Tachidi there had been ever-present and increasing telltale signs of espionage and sabotage occurring within our Empire. We had a massive quantity of internal anti-espionage agents in place throughout our massive domain and we thought that the situation was manageable, given now that so many species were a part of our Empire. Unfortunately, we miscalculated very badly. Over the last six months, three leaders had been assassinated. To make matters worse, we were unable to determine the actual culprit or culprits, let alone catch them. It was the High Council’s belief that the Tachidi were to blame, but all members were not so foolish as to eliminate our many other enemies from suspicion.

We had not engaged in any external acts of terrorism, espionage or sabotage for over a decade now, simply because we weren’t very good at it, or at least so it seemed. Our last agents that had been deployed against the Meklar at the beginning of our war had all been caught and summarily executed. Nonetheless, a response was required. Curfews were instituted in certain areas and more stringent regulations and use of identification papers were now required to access certain regions and buildings throughout our vast space. To offset the unease cast upon the public by these new restrictions on their daily comings and goings, greater expenditures on public services were implemented at the same time.

Lebak knew that he could blame the death of our leaders on the Psilons. Because we had been completely unsuccessful in our attempts at uncovering the true identity of the assassin(s), blame could be laid wherever we so chose. It was a political advantage, but as said before, one that Lebak ultimately wished he had never had the chance of utilizing.

In addition, multiple spies were now being trained for insertion into the Tachidi Collective. This was where we truly believed the incursions to be originating from and we hoped that our “counter-attack” would effectively put an end to these hideous murders. “Besides”, said Lebak “ I hate walking around with these damn body guards all the time. Makes me feel like some kind of rock star, and I never liked rock stars.” Labon chuckled, picturing Lebak hammering on a six-string. “I think we will not have much longer to deal with this threat, my friend. As we speak, Tovam has already secured three systems and eleven Tachidi planets. In a few more years, the only bugs we will have to worry about will be the ants at our picnic”, Labon stated, pride in his military commanders showing on his leathered face. “I believe you, my friend, I truly do”, sighed Lebak. “But we have already lost so many, it is difficult not to grieve.” “No, you are right to grieve, Lebak, as should we all. But our leaders will not perish in vain. As in the past, all who oppose us shall die! Trust me, my friend, all our enemies will continue to pay for their crimes with their lives!” swore Labon.

“And what of you, my old friend?” queried Lebak. “Will you now retire and hand over command to Coilis or Hektar, leaving me to train your replacement?” chuckled Lebak. “I will have to discuss that with them both, once Drakka falls”, said Labon, “but, to be honest, I am uncertain. I no longer feel the despair I felt five years ago. I feel invigorated and newly challenged. Maybe it is because I am now associating with a rock star, and it makes me feel young again!” he chided. “Ah, to hell with you, you gun-toting cowboy! Just make sure you let me know what you decide, OK?” asked Lebak. “Can’t let you retire without a formal party, but I sure as hell am not going to waste my time arranging it if you’re just going to be back in your damned office again the next day!” “No sweat, you’ll be the first to know”, smiled Labon, as they got up from the table to part ways. Labon headed for his communications department. He had to let Coilis know of his orders to take Drakka before he could collect on his bet. “Shouldn’t take him long”, mused Labon, as he strolled down the street, now growing dark with the setting of the afternoon sun. Just dark enough to conceal the barrel of silencer pistol extending from the alley…

[MutantLavaLamp]

Whoa, that is an interesting chapter. Lots o stuff going on on your empire, eh, Alex. Interesting chat though, and VERY interesting last sentence. May the person miss, if not, poor Labon

I'll put it on the site ASAP

By the way, it's been changed to http://experiencehome.50megs.com/index.html, the only difference is I have twice the web space, and I need to get it working. So I'm rather busy, gotta go!

[Alex Poff]

Chapter 6

His first official duty in his new Vice Admiral’s uniform was to attend the state funeral of his predecessor and mentor. Hektar didn’t like it one bit. In fact, he and Coilis had actually argued over whom should get “stuck” with the position, both so wanted to avenge Labon’s death personally that the exalted promotion seemed hollow. Lebak had been asked by the High Council to make the recommendation based on his office’s association with the military and also because of his long-standing friendship with the man himself. Lebak was faced with the same daunting decision that would have befallen Labon; how to decide between two equally impressive and highly decorated fleet commanders? In the end, Lebak had decided upon simplicity, convenience and situation. Coilis was already en route with his fleet to Drakka to exterminate the Meklar from that quadrant of space while Hektar was already here, on Sente II, having completed his mission in the southeast. He was just starting his furlong and was awaiting the arrival of his good friend so he could collect on their bet. The urgency of the situation called for an immediate replacement and one of the two commanders, considered by our people to be the best of the best, was available, now.

Lebak had informed Hektar of their suspicions that the Tachidi were to blame but that, for political purposes, the Psilons would be the official target of the Evon Empire’s rage. Besides, it was still entirely possible that the Psilons were the culprits. Hektar agreed that this scenario worked perfectly into our plans for expansion of our empire and extermination of our enemies. Beyond Drakka lay a small number of systems controlled by the Nommo but which also held most of the last remnants of the Psilons. With a freshly renewed hate fostered amongst our people, public opinion would be on the military’s side as we continued our “roll” north from Drakka. Coilis would be able to push north and establish a new chokepoint in the Beta Antares system, a system that bordered on the Klackon Hive. Meanwhile, Tovam would continue his assault on the Tachidi collective in the south, aided by the insertion of our new wave of spies and saboteurs.

The High Council was also looking at additional ways to reduce the level of unrest currently taking its toll on our people. The Silicoid Empire, which lay to the far north through a wormhole in Juta, had made extremely peaceful overtures over the last few months via proper diplomatic channels, extolling our virtues and requesting various trade and economic agreements be put in place. The Trilarians were continuing to sue for peace, even after we had completely eliminated them, along with the Meklar, from the southeast quadrant of the galaxy. The fact that they no longer posed any threat nor occupied any space that we currently had designs on stood in their favour. The Klacon Hive, who had always been relatively ambiguous concerning our relationship, were also making positive statements to our ambassadors, alluding to various cooperative efforts in business and trade that could be made between our peoples. The High Council knew that fewer enemies and less official declarations of war would sit well with our people. It would also aid our internal security division, potentially lowering the vast array of outside threats to our leaders and institutions. Hektar’s first audience before the High Council was to assure them that our true enemies would suffer and pay, but that all military operations and options would be reviewed post haste so that moral-enhancing treaties could be signed for the benefit of our race. The members of the High Council were pleased. “We have been blessed with generations of true warriors to lead and protect us, men of honour, who think of the Empire first!” were the words of the members as they adjourned the session.

Hektar had a big job to do now. Before, it was simply get the bastards in his sights and fire, now it involved multiple levels of war and strategy, with a healthy mix of politics injected for good measure. He was already keenly aware of the importance of the inter-relationship between his office and that of Lebak’s, his High Council’s Military Attache. It was time to get to know this man a lot better. He would become his new, closest confidant. Already, he felt as if he had known him all his life.

[MutantLavaLamp]

Hmm, this thread seems dead. Besides Alex, I was the last one to post here. What's up ppl? Alex is gonna think no1 cares and quit!
Well I care! I'll update it shortly.

[SamuraiZombie]

MutantLavaLamp: Anyone can see the "thread views" on the main page. 3500+ and rising... I'd say people care!

Keep up the good work, Alex.

[Shadow20]

anyway, why the evon are so ugly?

they look like painted mummies...

[Alex Poff]

Chapter 7

Coilis’ push to Drakka was entirely successful. The system fell rather handily with all planets captured by Kaytapa’s ground units. Coilis then proceeded north to Ulgher, a system controlled by both Nommo and Psilon forces. Within a year, our flag flew over both systems and, most importantly, two more Psilon worlds were no more. From there, the path branched north and northeast to Beta Antares and Sulaban, respectively. The Beta Antares system was also the chokepoint system, which bordered on the Klackon Hive.

As Coilis began his two-pronged assault, the Klackon Hive began to change their tone of ambiguity to one of almost begging. Their ambassadors began to plead with our High Council to formally establish a Non-Aggression Pact with their pitiful Hive; such was their concern and despair over the imminent approach of our military machine. This was exactly what Lebak and the High Council had been hoping for. We offered to “spare” them and sign the requested pact, if they would only provide us with some form of “incentive”. It was with great relish and public ceremony that we accepted their offer of new miniaturization advances for our Disintegration Beam and Megabolt Cannon technologies in return for a formal declaration of Non-Aggression. Our people rejoiced and Lebak crossed one more potential enemy off of the list, at least for the time being.

Coilis completely obliterated the Psilon and Nommo forces in Beta Antares in a matter of months, and then fortified the system with a full ten TF defense fleet. Hektar ordered the newly conquered worlds to begin building multiple Titan class IF and PD orbital stations once all planetary defense and shipbuilding facilities were in place. Our ship reserves were so great that we could easily afford to forgo ship production on these worlds, at least for the relative short period of time that would be required to bring these defense platforms on-line. Coilis then once again took personal command of the attack fleet in Sulaban, continuing the mission to eradicate the Psilons from existence.

Shortly thereafter, the Trilarians began to once more beg for leniency. While we were unsuccessful in “enticing” them into providing advanced technologies in return for peace, the High Council still felt that it would be in the best interest of our peoples’ deportment to accept their humble offer of Non-Aggression as well. Additionally, a pact of Non-Aggression was also signed with the 2nd Silicoid species. Our people hailed these announcements with great fervor and support for our High Council and military leaders reached an all-time high. The final piece of the morale-building puzzle was completed with the successful insertion of multiple spies into the Tachidi Collective. Almost immediately it seemed that sightings, incursions and threats against our leaders and facilities dissipated.

Tovam, as reported earlier, had had a successful start in his mission of extermination against the Tachidi. From Gadoquat, the Tachidi Collective held two connected systems, Skai to the north and Allacast to the south. From these two systems, the only exit path from both led to a solitary system directly west of Gadoquat called Unuk, effectively forming another ring in space, much as we have found in other areas of the galaxy.

After personally executing the Tachidi commander on Gadoquat I, Tovam had continued on with a two-pronged assault on Skai and Allacast, only having to glass one of the Allacast system planets from space, such was the concentration of force assembled on the planet. Kaytapa’s regional commander, Betakamp, was doing an excellent job of routing the bugs, utilizing multiple attack maneuvers with his Battleoids. Unuk also fell, an eight-planet system, which would greatly increase our production capabilities within our Empire.

From Unuk the path led northwest to Marfak. If Tovam had violent tendencies prior to his assault on this system, they were magnified ten-fold when he learned what was taking place in Marfak. The Marfak system held six planets. When Betakamp’s assault forces landed on Marfak IV, the report Tovam received was simply ghastly. The planet was comprised almost entirely of Darloks, all enslaved.

The Darloks are a very unique species. They are a race of beings that are able to “metashift”, which means they are capable of taking on multiple appearances and forms. We had learned this, obviously, because the Ibis system in our Empire is made up almost entirely of this race. We have always found the Darloks to be playful and completely productive, happy members of our Empire. The Tachidi, on the other hand, had forced them to “shift” to a form which provided maximum physical output, collared them with energy braces to maintain this form and then proceeded to work them to death in their mines, smelters and factories. Tovam was physically sick to his stomach reviewing downloaded digital images that were continually fed into his console from our mechanized warriors on the planet surface below.

Tovam contacted Hektar immediately. “Those bastards have enslaved an entire system of Darloks! Every planet here is being run like a massive sweatshop.” Hektar was obviously distraught, but wasn’t quite sure what Tovam was after. “What do you propose?” he asked. “I want new troops for this system,” replied Tovam. “I know our Battleoids are programmed exceptionally well not to injure any civilian friendly, but I don’t think that’s enough in this case. I am formally requesting life-form based ground units for the liberation of this system, as well as the immediate dispatch of extra freighters to dispense medical aid appropriate to these people. I am also requesting permission to personally lead said ground units.” Tovam knew that we still had armor and mobile units available to us, we just hadn’t used them in front-line battle in a very long time. “What does Betakamp think of your idea?” asked Tovam. “Betakamp’s with me, you can ask him yourself, if you like. His report on resistance is identical to every one we have sent in to date. These bugs just don’t hold a candle to us, when it comes to firepower. He will obviously be my 2nd-in-command for this mission. Once we have liberated this system, I’ll hand command of the ground forces back to him immediately.” Tovam knew it was the right thing to do. A personal touch, be it Rhean or Evon (there were now many Evon soldiers in our military command, such was the prestige of serving the Empire), would go a long way towards the Darloks recovery and recuperation. It would also do nothing but enhance our already stellar reputation with the magnate civilizations that were already a part of our Empire. “Consider it done, Tovam,” stated Hektar. “Armor and Mobile armies will be dispatched from Skai immediately. They should arrive in two days.” With that, Hektar contacted Lebak immediately to inform him of the good news so that he might pass it on to the Darlok representatives in Ibis.

Tovam lead his soldiers in some of the bloodiest battles in the history of our people. It was with great pleasure that Tovam and his comrades on the surface would emerge from firefights splattered with green and purple ooze dripping from their uniforms, such was the intensity and pure hatred that was displayed toward the defending Tachidi troops.

When the system totally fell and our flag rose above the smoke and ash, Tovam had another prize for Hektar, Lebak and our Empire. The spies we had inserted into the Tachidi Collective enlightened us to two grand technology discoveries, one that would cause Hektar to potentially redesign our entire fleet. The introduction of the Very Heavy Weapons Mount and the Ultra Spinal Weapons Mount would greatly increase our weapons range and also give us the capability of mounting weapons capable of destroying an entire planet.

“It has been a good day,” mused Tovam, as he took up his command position on the bridge of his Titan class IF ship and prepared to warp out of the system. As was standard practice, a defense fleet was remaining behind in Marfak to protect the system from “backwash incursions’, but Tovam did not foresee any problems. “Only three systems left, you little bastards, and I’m coming for you. Helmsman, engage engines, maximum warp!”

[Alex Poff]

Question: Should I end this story when I get to a point that all my current enemies are vanquished (still a long way off) and then have "peace in our time" or should I go until all is won? Your thoughts?

Thanks

Alex

[Lennier]

If you are going to have fun playing the game until the computer tells you you've won, then continue on. If you will get boared before that point, declare victory when you've achieved "peace in our time." Either way, I'll read what you write.

[MutantLavaLamp]

Excellent new chapter Alex! Do whatever you want to do, but I would like this story to go on for a while, it is excellent!

There could be an intermission after the current enemies have been defeated, so you can have a chance to rest before continuing onward. Wither way, I'm sure I'll enjoy what I read from you Alex!

P.S. when the story is all done I'll have to "gift-wrap" the whole thing and make it nice and pretty with perfect grammer, exc.

Until then, keep on writing!

[Dogron]

I agree with Lennier, what ever you deside. I think we will all continue reading until the story comes to an end (even though I hate to think about this ending).

I started a game the same time you began this tread. How have you managed to stay on good terms with any other races? Once I got to the top spot, everyone went to war with me and I haven't been able to get anyone back. Any secrets or tips?

Anyway, Thanks for another great read. Keep'm coming when you can.

[MutantLavaLamp]

Hey Alex! Just for your information (and because I feel like getting on your nerves), I am currently extensively editing your story and I want to let you know that you spelled "Eoladi" wrong 129 times in the Evon Experience

You kept trying to spell it "Eolodi"

Wrong answer!

[Alex Poff]

Dogron,

Thanks for the nice comments, really appreciate them!

As far as staying on good terms with other races, I am just as baffled as you, I think. Normally, by the time I have established this power position, every race should hate me because I am too strong. The only two races I have been able to stay on long-term excellent relationships with are the two gas bag races, and we have been allies almost the entire game. I also always use "humble" or "appreciative" phrased responses, even when I am turning them down on something (which I do a lot!) because I understand that this is the type of response they want to hear. I can't seem to hold any other type of pact with anybody else for any length of time though, because I think they feel too threatened. The Eoladi are ranked number 2 and the Imseisis are ranked number 4, so maybe I don't threaten them yet?

That's all I got! Have a good one!

Alex

[MutantLavaLamp]

I have also noticed that gasbag empires tend to be more friendly to you if you're nice to them and you "qualify" to be their friends (World famous Lizard Lovers exc. thread)

The Eoladi seem to be quite a powerhouse too, as told in the story. They don't have much a reason to fear you, because it will probably hurt you more than it will hurt them if you declare war. If you do, they can ally with the rest of the people that hate you, and strengthen your other various enemies

[Alex Poff]

Chapter 8 One War Ends, Another Begins

For five more years Tovam and Coilis waged their respective battles against the Tachidi and the Psilons. Both men and their fleets proved themselves in battle time and time again and Hektar was accumulating literally boxes of medals and citations that he was saving to hand out personally. In addition, he was looking forward to finally taking that “vacation” with his friend Coilis; such were the demands on his time in his new Vice Admiral position that moments of leisure were few and far between.

Hektar’s days were filled with High Council sessions and meetings with Lebak over military and political strategy, as well as the constant border skirmishes that took place almost daily in systems like Juta, Eta Serpentis, Assellus and Beta Antares. The Meklar and Cynoids had not gone away; they had only been removed from our interior, cut away like an expert surgeon. But like a virulent virus, they kept coming back and hammering at our gates, trying to re-enter and fester. System commanders, like Keetal and Retal to name a few, had always been able to repel the invaders, but the battles still required attention, lest a crack in our armor be exposed.

Coilis had conquered the entire Sulaban system and then moved on to the last “dead-ended system, called Hooba, beyond and east of Sulaban. Hooba was a large eight-planet system shared, once again, by the Nommo and the Psilons. When the final planet fell to Kaytapa’s Battleoids, Coilis expected to soon hear news from Hektar, via the High Council, that the Psilons had been finally eliminated as political entity. Unfortunately, it was not to be.

“What do you mean, there are more of them?” he sneered. “Yes, my friend, unfortunately, they are not “dead” yet,” replied Hektar. “Our Non-Aggression Pact with the Klackons has enlightened us to one last remaining Psilon system made up of three planets located deep in the extreme south of the galaxy and deep in the heart of Klackon territory. It is their last hiding spot, so to speak. Fortunately, we should have unfettered access to them, as long as our Non-Aggression Pact with the Klackon holds. Once Tovam finishes up with the Tachidi, the path to the last Psilon system is fairly straightforward. I don’t have the star chart in front of me at the moment, but as I recall, it is simply a matter of traversing approximately six Klackon systems.”

“ So where does Tovam stand now?” asked Coilis. “The Exis system has fallen. Tovam is currently involved in a major battle for the Tolaris system. It’s the Tachidi’s 2nd last, has only one massive size 12 planet in it, and he has reported that the Tachidi have a minimum of five Battleoid armies on the surface, heavily dug in. The Tachidi’s defense fleets have been destroyed, but they are continuing to attempt to reinforce the planet with ships from Grotius, their last system. Tovam has stationed his fleet at the jump lane exit point and is annihilating any enemy ships that attempt to enter the system. The Exis Viceroy has already completed the repair of the systems’ Mobilization Center, so Betakamp has been able to get quick access to reinforcements for his ground troops. His latest report indicates that success is inevitable, if only hard-fought.”

“Wonderful! I assume that it will be full speed ahead to Grotius once Tolaris falls?” asked Coilis. “Exactly. No let-up whatsoever. The Grotius system is actually co-owned, with three planets belonging to the Tachidi and four belonging to the Klackon,” stated Hektar. “With only three smaller worlds left, I can’t imagine that it will take much time before we see the day soon that the Tachidi are no more. Once taken, we can then set our sights on the last Psilon system.”

“Sounds to me like there’s time in there for a little vacation, right?” smiled Coilis. “You bet your ass!” laughed Hektar. “And remember, you’re buying, right?” said Coilis. “Right you are, old friend. Assign Jatan to head up the defense fleet in Beta Antares, our chokepoint to the Klackons, and then get your butt back here to Sente II. There are about three billion people here who want to welcome one of our Empire’s greatest war heroes home, including, I’m sure, some lovely ladies at the Pleasure Dome,” laughed Hektar. “Looking forward to it, buddy! I’ll see you at home inside of a week,” said Coilis.

“Red Alert – Proximity Warning” screamed the sensor. “Tactical analysis, now!” ordered Tovam. Tovam and his fleet had just warped into the Grotius system having finally, after four long months of furious ground assault, conquered Tolaris Prime. “Bad news, Captain. Just as you conjectured, the Klackon defense fleet is forming up along side of the last of the Tachidi forces,” replied his tactical officer. “Stupid, senseless bugs. Don’t they realize that they are only sealing their own fate? Why throw in with the Tachidi now? It’s over,” he mused, half thinking, half talking out loud.

Tovam was obviously prepared for this eventuality. After the surprise attack by the Psilons in Gadoquat years earlier, Tovam now expected the unexpected at almost every turn. It was a key factor in his incredibly small losses of ships and crew in his many battles with the bugs. Regardless, this was now going to be a battle of much greater magnitude, now that the Klackons had broken the treaty.

The additional force brought to the battle by the Klackons did, indeed, cause concern. The bugs attempted a pincer maneuver, setting back with two CF and IF TF’s each and advancing with three SR TF’s from both the port and starboard sides. With a total of six TF’s closing rapidly utilizing extremely long-ranged weapons the damage they inflicted was rapid and severe. “Form up, form up! Prepare for incoming missiles and fighters,” called Tovam. Tovam split his attack fleet, with two CF and IF TF’s each on either side of his two Transport TF’s. Each foursome would be responsible for taking out the three SR TF’s that were inbound, with PD weapons on all vessels ready to light up the sky upon acquisition of the enemy missiles and fighters.

Our first missile and fighter waves had only just launched when the enemy’s beam weapons signaled their calling card. On either side of our formation an entire CF TF seemed to evaporate, imploding on themselves. “Those bastards have acquired the Disintegration Beam technology,” said Tovam aloud. At that moment, all our remaining ships rocked with the unleashing of multiple PD weaponry, ranging from our own long range Disintegration Beams, Phaser Beams and short range Lightning Generators as inbound missiles and fighter signatures were acquired by our targeting computers. “Status report!” bellowed Tovam. “Practically none of the enemy missiles or fighters have been able to penetrate our PD wall, Captain. Minor damage to some ships only,” replied his tactical officer. “What about their SR TF’s?” enquired Tovam. “Missiles have detonated on target, Captain. Our fighters are now engaging. We won’t be taking any more casualties from them, Captain. Sensors indicate two of three enemy SR TF’s are gone on both port and starboard, Sir. Fighters report target acquisition lock, expect to be able to engage remaining enemy CF and IF TF’s within moments, Captain.”

“Excellent! Lock missile tubes on the enemy IF and CF TF’s and fire at will. Let’s get a wave in on them before our flyboys get there. No use having our boys dodge our own missiles.” “Aye, Aye, Sir. Missiles away! Prepare for second round of inbound!” came the reply. Our PD weapons opened up again, blazing at the second wave of bug missiles that flashed through space, only to explode in a torrent of fire unleashed by Tovams’ remaining eight-strong TF fleet. Moments later, the last of the enemy fleet collapsed under a combined onslaught of Ionic Pulsar warheads and highly trained fighter pilots.

“Communications Officer, open a channel to Military Command. Inform Vice Admiral Hektar that, unfortunately, the Klackons have broken our Non-Aggression Pact. Inform him that we intend to take the entire system, as per standard attack protocols. Also, inform Jatan in Beta Antares of this development. He’s riding shotgun over the Klackon border there. I don’t want him to have any rude surprises,” ordered Tovam. “Too bad, though,” muttered Tovam. “Looks like we’re going to have a long, long row to hoe before we can finally get to those damn Psilons. We’re going to have to fight our way to them. Damn, I was looking forward to a rest, too.” Ah, well, he thought, there is always more work to do. “Get Betakamp on the horn. Tell him he’s going to have a few more planets to attack than we thought.

[MutantLavaLamp]

I've always loved your space battle scenes

Great work Alex!

[grandIthkulman]

Hi mutant! Im at School right now eighhhh! And btw I LOVE U ALEX POFF!

[MutantLavaLamp]

nice sig

[Alex Poff]

Chapter 9

“Damned Klackons. I knew it, I knew they would never stay on board,” snorted Lebak, as he drained the last of his second pint. “But surely you didn’t expect them to keep the treaty, did you?” asked Hektar. “A humanoid race, eviscerating their cousins, setting up shop in their space, obviously requires some type of negative response. Besides, who cares? Tovam mopped the floor with them, used their heads for a mop and their butts for a broom! Grotius is all ours. I’m the one with the problem, if you can call it that.” “What, fighting your way to the last Psilon system?” asked Lebak, motioning for the waiter to bring another pint for him and Hektar. “No, that’s not it, although I will have to do that now,” said Hektar. “It’s my warship production. As you know, I have control of over two hundred and fifty military shipbuilding facilities now, almost all of which are capable of pumping out any type of capital ship I feel we need.” “So, that’s a good thing, isn’t it?” asked Lebak. “Of course it is, but you yourself just sent me the scientific advancements memo yesterday informing me that we now have the capability of installing warp IX engines for all vessels. In addition to that, Tovam’s latest battle report indicates that he has acquired both the Ultra Spinal Mount and Class VIII shield technologies in his Grotius conquests. This means that I am going to have to begin the planning for an entire new fleet of ships incorporating all three advances and then implementing it. It would be foolish not to.” “I see your point,” said Lebak, then, trying to hold back a smirk, “Better get drunk tonight, because it sounds like you have one helluva lot of work to do over the next few weeks.”

“Exactly. I know why I’m drinking tonight. So why are you getting hammered?” asked Hektar. “Well, on most fronts our diplomatic relations seem to be going down the toilet,” replied Lebak. The Silicoids to the north have also broken our Non-Aggression Pact, as have the Trilarians. The only positive thing to come out of our inter-species diplomatic sessions lately has been another offer of a six-cycle Cease Fire with the Nommo, but I don’t think we’ll even bother to officially respond.” “No, accept it,” said Hektar. “What in God’s name for?” asked Lebak. “Tovam has discovered what has got to be another Guardian system, two systems to the north of Exis. Our sensors can’t penetrate it, but everything we can get tells us that it is exactly the same as the three previous Guardian systems we have encountered. The system between it and Exis is Nommo-held. If we can gain access to that system without a fight, it would obviously make things a lot easier. There is bound to be some great planets available in that system, and you are always telling me how much land is at a premium now.” “That’s great news, Hektar!” smiled Lebak. “First thing in the morning, I will advise the High Council to accept the Nommo offer, and then you can dispatch a fleet and colony ships to the system post haste.”

“Consider it done. But maybe we might have to leave it until the afternoon. Waiter… another round for me and my friend, here!”

[MutantLavaLamp]

An interesting chapter...

You should try to do something about those relations...
No use fighting more wars at once than necessary. I hope you get some good planets of those gaurdians!

[Lennier]

Sounds like he's reached the "tipping point" where everybody hates him because he's so big. Actually an enviable position to be in.

[MutantLavaLamp]

Alex, it looks like its time for full scale war. Kill all your enemies and potential enemies in a huge sweep of milti-pronged warship attacks, and kill anyone that tries to help them. Have battes in 40 systems per turn, take no prisoners, hear no pleas. All shall fall into line under your rightful dominace of the galaxy.

[Alex Poff]

Chapter 10 Squish All The Bugs

As promised, Lebak advised the High Council to accept the temporary Cease Fire with the Nommo. Lebak and the High Council were both well aware that this treaty would never hold, but as Hektar had indicated, we might as well make it as easy as possible for new colonists to get where they needed to go. There was no use trying to fly Colony ships through a war zone if we didn’t have to.

Zatish, another new hotshot, was given command of the defense fleet assigned to this particular Guardian system. As was standard practice, his fleet contained ten armadas split evenly between Titan IF and Titan CF battle groups. His orders from Hektar were three-fold. Destroy the Guardian. Protect and ensure the safe colonization of any worlds found in the system. Once these two parts were completed, he was to take an attack force and return to the Noctua system, the system between Exis and the Guardian now held by the Nommo, and wait until the expiration of the Cease Fire agreement. If the Nommo even blinked, he was to take the system immediately. We couldn’t afford to have alien infestation within our borders.

Meanwhile, Hektar proceeded with the re-design of all our Titan class mission ships, configuring in the improved shields, engines and longer-ranged weapon systems. As he had discussed with Lebak, it was an arduous task but the resulting production shift also gave the added benefit of maximizing production inefficiencies that had crept into the system over the last decade. Because it was a major overhaul, Hektar was also able to re-allocate and increase production by ordering the construction of additional Industry DEA’s while eliminating an over-abundance of Mining and Bioharvest DEA’s that were now producing well in excess of even our massive economy’s needs. When the job was done, the High Council formally recognized his efforts with an exalted Citizenship Contribution Award, an honour rarely given out in the history of our Empire.

With this job completed, he once again turned his thoughts and plans towards our enemies. The Klackons had sealed their own fate and now would pay for their insolence with their own destruction. Star chart analysis showed a very interesting situation. Proceeding south from Grotius lay another Klackon system named Yhoa. This system connected, via a wormhole, to another bug system called Paradise that lay in the far center-east of the galaxy and just happened to be the border chokepoint system beside Beta Antares, now under our control and commanded by Jatan. This solved the riddle as to how the Klackons had managed to dominate two distinctly different geographic areas of the galaxy. A quick, two-pronged assault would net us both systems and effectively cut the bugs in two, leaving them approximately thirty odd planets in two sectors of space each. Tovam would take command of the southern attack fleet while Jatan would assign a new system defense commander and then proceed to assume command of the eastern attack fleet. Once split, our forces could then systematically eliminate the Klackons from existence on two fronts, while providing the additional bonus of bringing us ever closer to the final system held by the Psilons in the extreme southernmost portion of the galaxy.

The Klackon situation addressed, Hektar then turned his mighty military machines’ attention to the Silicoids. As indicated earlier, this second group of rocks had broken our Non-Aggression Pact and was now sending thousands of ships to the Eta Serpentis system, currently under Keetals’ control. Retal, currently commanding the defense force in Juta, would be called up to replace Keetal in Eta Serpentis, while Keetal would lead an invasion force north through the wormhole to Kaht, the first of approximately ten systems held by the Silicoids. Once there, his mission was to smash the rocks into submission and conquer all their worlds, expanding our Empire even further. Lebak had also indicated that the High Council was extremely interested in this maneuver, as there had been word of new species and races of beings that lived in the northern quadrant of the galaxy, as yet unknown. It was hoped that by eliminating another enemy we might encounter potential new friends and allies.

Word had come from Zatish. The Nommo had blinked. At the very hour that our formal Cease Fire agreement ended, the Nommo had once again declared war on our civilization. Zatish more than lived up to the high standards already set by Evon military commanders throughout our history. In little more than a week he had conquered the entire system and, as Hektar had wanted, no alien infestation existed within our borders once again. Noctua now secure, Hektar ordered Zatish back to the Altair system (re-named once the Guardian had been dispatched) to organize an attack force to assault the Trilarians in Pyro, their first system beyond Altair in the center of the galaxy. For the time being, we would once again ignore the Nommo.

We were now waging war on four fronts, two with the Klacons, one each with the Silicoids and the Trilarians. Normally, one would think that this might be a little too much to chew, so to speak, but our military had not suffered any significant loss in more than a decade, perhaps more. Also, in addition to our new, updated Titan class capital ships which were now rolling off our production lines, word from our scientists had come that they were now researching a larger class ship type, one they affectionately called a Behemoth, twice the size of a Superdreadnought. Also, Admantium armor and Omega missile warheads were being researched, both giving significant increases in deflection capability and destructive yield, respectively. Our scientists assured both Hektar and Lebak that all research would be complete and implementation would be possible within a year. Hektar was ecstatic. With these new advances, surely no one would dare to oppose us. Indeed, it might be the time to pay a visit to the Orion system. After all, their harassment of our systems has never ended. “Tit for tat. It would be only fair,” smirked Hektar.

[MutantLavaLamp]

Oh dear, I forgot 2 reply. I'll just say this:



Great chapter

P.S. a preview of your banner on the Experience Homepage to be:


(Same as b4 but your name added)

[MutantGuitar]

Check out link in my sig!!!!

[MutantLavaLamp]

Uh....

What's that have to do with the Evon Experience? Why doncha just read the Evon Exp and say something about it, and we can all look at your sig

[MutantGuitar]

Originally posted by MutantLavaLamp
Uh....

What's that have to do with the Evon Experience?

The link in my sig has todo w/ the EE. Well any way, does this story have any way of ending?? It's too good, and there are so many other experiences to read. I'm going to end up wasting my life reading all the experiences!

P.S. Mutantlavalamp, it's your site anyway!

[Alex Poff]

Chapter 11 The Spread of an Empire

War takes time. It takes a lot of other things, too, but mostly, it takes time. Seven long years have passed since last we spoke.

Jatan, our eastern fleet commander, methodically routed the Klackons in the northeast quadrant of the galaxy, moving through Paradise and then on through seven additional systems that “dead-ended”. An excellent occurrence, as, once completed, Jatan will be able to be re-deployed elsewhere. While not trying to make it sound like it was an easy victory, it had become brutally clear that the Klackon fleets were no match for our Titan class vessels. As had become the case, it was ground combat and the capture of the individual planet intact that was the most difficult issue.

In addition to Nu Bootis VI, the Rhean worlds of Selia V, Ibis II and Sham II and III were now solely dedicated to the production of our mechanized Battleoids. Additionally, many other Evon and Rhean worlds had made the request to the High Council to be given permission to provide biological fighting units to our armies, changing their planets’ focus from ship-building to troop training. This request also held ramifications for worlds that we had conquered over the past years. Our Unification government, once experienced by our conquered citizens, proved to be exceptionally well lended to winning over the populace at large. All new citizens, be they humanoid, silicoid, machine, bug or fish found that all were treated with equal respect and dignity. In our decades of war and expansion not once had a solitary conquered planet revolted, let alone experience even the slightest form of political unrest. The Evon Empire was truly a well-oiled machine with well over three hundred planets now fully capable of contributing to our robust economic and military might. This sequence of events had, in turn, brought many adept Nommo, Trilarian and Psilon scientists willingly into the halls of our laboratories, greatly increasing output in this area. It also brought requests from Meklar worlds, in the area of military inclusion.

Kaytapa was called to an informal meeting to discuss the issue with Hektar, Coilis and Lebak. Due to the sheer size of our Empire and the vastness of our current military operations, Lebak had recommended and the High Council had approved the institution of a second Vice Admiral position in the military. Coilis was the obvious choice. His military record and experience practically mirrored Hektar’s. Hektar was grateful for the assistance, as he had slowly started to lose track of which day of the week it was, such was his workload. On a personal note, it also allowed him to spend more time with his good friend, and the divided workload allowed them both to share ideas and moments of levity. “All work and no play” as they say, is definitely a formula for missteps and mistakes.

Kaytapa was old, even for a Rhean. While our life span was approximately ninety years, Rheans lived about fifty per cent longer on average. Kaytapa was one hundred and twelve years old and was going to retire shortly. Already, his protégé, Betakamp, was taking over more and more of the functions of his office. Betakamp was currently running the campaign with Tovam against the Klackons in the south, but was becoming more and more involved with all of our military fronts.

“Don’t forget to order at least four jugs,” laughed Coilis. “Four!” exclaimed Lebak. “You plan on getting hammered fast?” he asked. “We’re drinking with a Rhean, remember?” needled Hektar. “He may be close to retirement, but he could put us all under the table in a heartbeat, if he wanted to.” “Crap, we’re all close to retirement, when you really think about it,” said Lebak. “Right you are, old friend! So why don’t we get business over with as quickly as possible and make this into a pre-retirement binge?” said Coilis, continuing to laugh. “Sounds like a plan to me, hey, there’s Kaytapa now,” said Hektar.

Kaytapa strode into the pub. Strode was the only way to define it. Standing well in excess of eight feet tall and weighing in at close to four hundred pounds of pure muscle, describing it in any other way would have been insulting. But one shouldn’t get the impression that his entrance was in any way menacing. Of course, on the battlefield, looking menacing was easy, but here, amongst friends, Rheans were always jovial and good-natured. “My friends!” he bellowed, and promptly pulled up a stool. “Where’s the ale?” he asked easily. “Coming as we speak,” smiled Lebak. “It’s good to see you again, old friend. Coilis has suggested that we get business out of the way as quickly as possible, so that we can concentrate on more enjoyable pursuits. Do you agree?” “Agreed. We’ll empty the tankards, tonight, old friends!”

The discussion was based, as mentioned earlier; around incorporating more life form based units in our planetary assault teams and the ever-increasing requests from member planets to join the war effort in a ground force capacity. Kaytapa had already read the report issued by his second-in-command, Betakamp, regarding the successful Marfak system liberation and was in complete agreement with his officers’ assessment. “There is no question that the Battleoid is the most powerful and obviously most expendable unit we can deploy. It still must remain as the number one tool. However, especially on planets where liberation versus conquer is the issue, a “face” is always comforting to those in need,” stated Kaytapa. “In addition, I must admit, since the introduction of the Battleoid unit, my people have yearned to be able to fulfill, what we still feel to be, our true calling in service of the Empire, that being military service.” “I agree,” stated Coilis. Also, diversity in attack protocols, which would be possible with additional Armor, Mobile and Marine units, would potentially greatly increase our success rate and actually reduce our number of lost Battleoid units, which are currently being destroyed at a somewhat alarming rate. More strategic options, means a greater chance at success.” “What of the Meklar proposal?” asked Hektar. “Based on the current political climate, if Kaytapa is willing, I see no reason to deny them full access,” said Lebak. “I would imagine, actually, that mechanical, fully sentient beings might actually be advantageous in certain situations.” “I have never had problems with Evon soldiers under my command, and if the Meklar perform with the same dedication and loyalty, then I shall have no qualms in welcoming them into our legions,” stated Kaytapa proudly. “Then it is agreed, is it not? I will issue the recommendation to the High Council, who will approve it immediately, I’m sure,” said Lebak.

“Now, before we proceed to get totally whacked, we all have to discuss our future. I’m sixty-seven years old, and you two buggers are both older than me,” Lebak pointed at Hektar and Coilis. “Any ideas on your replacements, or are you both going to kick it in your command consoles?” “No, we’ve already got that figured out, I believe,” said Hektar. “Keetal is just finishing up with the Silicoids in the northern quadrant. In fact, I expect to hear that the last of the second rock empire will be completely vanquished within weeks. He’s rock solid, if you pardon the pun, and still got a long career ahead of him. He’s our first choice. Because he is only in his late forties, he can probably handle the job on his own, maybe even better than we two old farts can together,” smirked Coilis. “Regardless, if he needs help he can pick his own, we would leave that up to him, obviously with the High Council’s blessing,” said Hektar, deferring graciously to Lebak. “What about you, Lebak? Who will replace you?” asked Kaytapa. “I don’t know if you have met him yet, but his name is Fedral. Simply put, he’s a bloody genius. Next time we’re out, I’ll invite him along. He’ll have to learn that this setting and location are key components of the job,” laughed Lebak. “It’s fairly obvious that Betakamp is going to try to fill your shoes, Kaytapa, but are you even considering a subordinate officer to fill Betakamp’s old role?” asked Hektar. “Yes, Tsandran will become the number two. I will send you his file tomorrow for your review. I am certain you will approve,” stated Kaytapa.

“That’s it, then! Official business is over for today! Bartender! Bring us four more jugs!

Actually, the official business portion of the conversation was much longer, as a complete review of all political and military situations took place. I will summarize.

Keetal, indeed, had almost completely vanquished the second Silicoid race from the northern quadrant. Upon the collapse and capture of the Kaht system (the first system accessible via the wormhole in Eta Serpentis) the path branched out in two different directions, one west and another southeast. Keetal called up Retal from Eta Serpentis with the intent of delivering a two-pronged attack. Keetal would take the southeast route while Retal would venture west.

As Keetal and Retal advanced, the High Council’s warning of other races came to pass. To the west, Retal encountered a reptilian race called the Sakkra. To the southeast Keetal met another reptilian race called the Grendarl. They reminded our commanders of snakes and alligators, respectively, yet both were bipedal and extremely aggressive. The Sakkra’s domain was extremely small, consisting of only three systems and thirteen planets immediately north of the Yekub and Nu Piscum systems, the last of the Silicoid systems in their western arm. The Grendarl Dominion was considerably larger, consisting of well over fifty planets in a multitude of systems lying south of Iman, the second last of the Silicoid Empire in their southeastern arm.

We immediately attempted to make peaceful overtures, guaranteeing no invasion and offering multiple trade and economic agreements with our newfound neighbours. We were rebuffed by both races, with declarations of war issued by their surly ambassadors. The Sakkra attacked our war fleets in Yekub the moment official war was declared. It seemed that the planets we were capturing from the Silicoid in this system, along with those in the Nu Piscum system, had previously been part of the Sakkra Kingdom, only recently captured by the Silicoids themselves.

“Red Alert – Proximity Warning.” This was going to be interesting. Four of the seven planets in the Yekub system had already fallen to Retal and his accompanying ground forces, and the fifth was dead in his sights. But now, along with another ten TF Silicoid defense fleet and the now so-familiar multiple Orbital batteries to contend with, a second, seven TF Sakkra attack fleet had entered the system through a distant jump lane and were advancing on his fleet. “Status report, Ensign. Give me a location and time to intercept on the Sakkra,” ordered Retal. “Aye Captain. The Sakkra fleet will enter our Ultra Spinal Mount range within twelve minutes sir, based on their current speed. Sensors are unable to determine if the Sakkra have the same weapons capability as we do, Sir. It’s highly unlikely that they have anything better, though. If they have Heavy Mount capability, they won’t be able to get a firing solution for at least twenty minutes,” came the reply. “Excellent. With a little luck, we can be practically finished with the Silicoid before we have to exterminate these snakes. Tactical officer, standard defensive attack pattern. Form up the fleet around our two Transport TF’s. Engage Point Defense targeting computers. Weapons officer, lock missiles on enemy Orbitals and fire at will. Launch all fighters at inbound enemy TF’s, now. Lock and load, gentlemen,” came the smooth orders from a now extremely experienced Evon commander.

The Silicoids had always been a worthy opponent in the area of space battle. They had always been well advanced in the area of long-range beam weaponry and had fortified their planets with massive quantities of Orbital batteries, sometimes exceeding fifteen in total. This high quantity of Orbitals allowed them to inevitably be able to get off at least two salvos from these same batteries before our own missiles could extinguish them all. While our Point Defense system was impressive, utilizing a multiple array of Disintegration, Phaser and Lightning Generator weaponry with various ranges alongside our impressive level VIII shielding and Neutronium Very Heavy Armor, stopping multiple salvos of literally thousands of inbound missiles and fighters was practically impossible. A battle had not been lost to the rocks, but casualties were a forgone conclusion.

As anticipated, our PD firewall lit the sky upon acquisition of the first inbound Silicoid missile wave. Practically none made it through, and those that did were unable to penetrate our armor. But the Silicoid had learned from us, and now immediately followed up the missile wave with their own fighters. As anticipated, our own missiles were unable to destroy all the defending Orbitals before they launched their second wave of death. The Silicoid fighters targeted a Carrier armada and while our Light Mounts blazed in a concert of coordinated fire, the targeted armada fell, smashed to shards of metal, forever to drift in the Yekub night. The second missile wave targeted a second Carrier armada and it, too, fell, our PD weapons unable to cope with the plethora of inbound.

Our fighters were having the expected positive result. Accompanied by our Long Range Ultra Spinal Mounted Disintegration Beams that were now standard issue on all mission ships, the Silicoid task force was vanquished by a combination of Plasma, Phaser and Ion Cannon fighter weaponry.

“Status report, Ensign,” asked Retal. This was one cool commander. He had just lost thirty-six ships and one would think he was ordering a drink at a pub. “The Silicoid threat has been completely eliminated, Captain. All planetary Orbital batteries destroyed. All Silicoid task forces destroyed. Two Carrier armadas of our own destroyed, both on the port side of the formation. Reconfiguring of task force underway, shifting one of the starboard Carrier armadas to the port, Sir. Missile ships report two remaining salvos available, ready to fire on your command. Remaining Carrier armadas currently refueling our fighters, they will be ready for re-launch in one minute, Sir. Inbound Sakkra fleet within Ultra Spinal Mount range in two minutes, Captain,” came the equally cool reply. “I like this kid,” thought Retal. “He keeps this up and he’s going to be promoted soon. Can’t say I won’t miss him, though.”

“Weapons officer, lock missiles on the Sakkra and fire. Launch all fighters as soon as you are able. Target their lead armada with our Ultra Spinal Mount Disintegration Beams and fire as soon as they enter range. Let’s see what these lizards got,” ordered Retal.

The lizards had nothing. Our Disintegration Beams anilihated the lead Sakkra armada before our missiles even got close. Our fighters barely had time to get off a shot. It was over very, very quickly.

“Communications officer, open a channel to HQ. Inform Vice Admiral Hektar that we have been attacked by and have obliterated a Sakkra attack force. Request permission to capture their entire puny Kingdom as soon as I have finished with the Silicoid portion of our mission,” ordered Retal.

A few moments later, permission was granted. The Sakkra fate had been sealed. The Grendarl, it appeared, had learned from their brethren’s mistake. While Keetal finished up with the Silicoids in the southeast, the Grendarl never left their own systems and challenged us not at all.

In the south, Tovam continued on his path of destruction, cutting a swathe through the remaining Klackon systems making a beeline for Diab, the remaining three-planet system held by the Psilons. It would require backtracking to destroy the remaining Klackons, but Tovam was intent on achieving his primary goal, which was the final and absolute destruction of the treacherous and backstabbing Psilon race. While reaching Diab was not an issue, nor was the pitiful defense fleets they managed to scramble together, the ground assaults were tumultuous, to say the least. Betakamp had to deploy six entire armies consisting of three Battleoid, and one each of Armor, Mobile and Marine to finally secure the Psilon homeworld. Betakamp himself was wounded in battle, but not mortally. His survival, along with his forthcoming promotion to Commander – Ground Forces, made him a hero demanding the respect and gratitude of the entire Evon Empire.

At the same time, Zatish had moved beyond the Trilarian system of Pyro and had also conquered the Cutcher and Zabil systems from the fish and was now heavily engaged in the Niru system, working his way further and further into the center of the galaxy. The fish fought well, but as before, could not stand before our overwhelming forces. Interestingly enough, much as was the case with the Psilons, the ground combat assaults always required multiple army battle groups to effect control. It was rare when there were less than four Trilarian armies defending each and every planet along Zatish’s path.

Meanwhile, in the Assallus system, harassment of a new kind began to surface. Assallus was one of the systems that Hektar had conquered long ago when we smashed the Meklar from the southeastern portion of the galaxy. Unfortunately, Assallus was the owner of a wormhole, which led to the center north of the galaxy and touched on multiple Cynoid, the other mechanical life form, worlds and systems.

Our first Darlok commander, Longspur, was ordered to assemble a strike force and traverse the wormhole to the Hasemi system at the other end. Hektar’s orders were simple enough. Take the system. Scan and determine best possible attack routes to further the mission, request reinforcements as required. There was such little fanfare to the order that Longspur was almost taken aback. Longspur was relieved when both Hektar and Coilis contacted him via personal communicator. “We are both extremely impressed with your service to the Empire. This is an extremely important mission. We just don’t want to single you out as being the first non-Evon task force commander to lead an invasion fleet. We felt you could do without the added public pressure. Remember, we don’t give command to incompetents. You’re the best for the job. Make us proud!”

Longspur made them proud. Cynoid-controlled Hasemi first, then Esra and then Potonoc all fell to Longspur’s “wolf pack”, as it came to be known. It might have had something to do with the fact that, at the moment of battle, Longspur would “shift” to the form of a giant wolf and open a video channel to his enemies command vessel, snarling and wrenching. I am not certain if cybernetic organisms can actually feel fear, but it was certainly great for our own troops morale.

So that is where our Empire now stands. The Psilons and the second Silicoid race have been politically eliminated, with Retal soon to exterminate the puny Sakkra from existence as well in the far north. Keetal will be assigning Jatan as the new fleet commander in Iman, our new border with the Grendarl Dominion, and returning to Sente II for victory celebrations, retirement parties and his own promotion to Vice Admiral. All this will occur within the next few months, once Tovam has finally secured the extinction of the Klackon Hive in the south. Tovam, too, will be retiring and joining in the festivities, receiving multiple awards and medals for his distinguished service to the Empire. Zatish will continue his noble efforts against the Trilarians, while Longspur will carry on against the Cynoid.

Hektar and Coilis have decided to leave the New Orions to Keetal. While our scientists were able to complete their research into Admantium Armor and the Behemoth class war ship, the Space Dock Extension required to physically build the actual ships still eludes us, as does the Energy Pulsar Warhead for our missiles. Both men have elected to wait until these insights finally become implementations before we attempt an assault on Orion.

We are now a race with control over more than four hundred planets and our power continues to grow. Can anyone stop us? Can anyone see the future?