Guardians of the Order

Chapter: 001

"The Return of the Crusaders"

17 years after first contact with the Vasari.

Location: Valiant Sector, Thallaos System, Thallaos
Region: Eastern Expanse, Eastern Frontlines
Regional Command: VALCOM/AFCOM/CENTCOM
Fleet: 375th Aegis Defense Fleet
Time: 23:47 VSST (Valiant Sector Standard Time)

Hundreds of flashes plumed across Thallaos gravity wells edge. And in an instant, hundreds of TEC warships had arrived in the system. The 375th had just returned from a standard patrol of the near by Natia System and the crews were exhausted. The recent increase in Advent raiding parties had sent VALCOM and AFCOM into distress. In response the one Fleet within the Sector without a base of operations found themselves roaming the Sector responding to any appearance of the Advent. Normally by the time the 375th arrived the raiding party had been dealt with by a local system Fleet. And was only activated for the sake of having a standing response just incase the Advent threw more then just a small task force sized element at the sector. But none the less it took its toll on the 375th as the raiding parties kept the other Fleets locked at their current system. The 375th was forced to continue roaming the Sector without another fleet as their relief.

The Valiant Sector was deep behind Advent frontlines, and the only reason it had held off from being siezed was because of the large distances between the Advent held Fathom Sector and the Cluster of systems in the Valiant Sector. Instead of days in phase space it took weeks, and atleast one system in the Valiant Sector was so far out from Fathom, it took almost a month to reach via phase space. As well the Corsthe Sector to the right and Nvath Sector to the left of Valiant were heavily contested. Entire Systems exchanging hands every week. The Advent were too tied up for their strategy of utilizing brute force to be effective in this region of space. So they were forced to adopt a Vasari tactic of harrassment with Raiding parties of 50 or so ships jumping into random systems. For atleast a year and a half the Advent had only jumped raiding parties in maybe once a month or so. But lately the Advent presence had increased. Across the Sector, reports came in reporting increased Advent activity in the region. They were now jumping in two sometimes three times a month.

"Lt. Emerson, Send out a comunique to Norse Base requesting jump coordinates." Ordered the young Commodore sitting in the command chair.
"Aye Aye Sir!" Chirped the young Lieutenant that sat behind and to the right of him, at the communications console. "Sir, Norse Base is ordering the Fleet to jump in farther out then usual, appears their minefield has just become operational. As well the 417th is currently held up at Norse Base."
"Understood,Relay jump coordinates to CIC Lieutenant".Commodore Koerner said.
"Yes Sir." Lt. Emerson responded.

"Helmsman, enter in coordinates for the next phase jump and procceed at .8 impulse." Commanded Commodore Koerner.
"Entering coordinates and increasing speed to .8 impulse, Sir." the helmsman said repeating the Commodores orders.

The TDN Firestorm, a Kol Battleship and the Flagship of the 375th banked to starboard and began to push for the far edge of the Thallaos gravity well. It would take another 7 hours before they were in position to jump to Norse Base. But in the mean time, The Commodore figured he leave the bridge in the hands of his Excutive Officer Commander Wright and pay a vist to the flight deck.

"Cmdr Wright you have the Bridge." Barked Commodore Koerner as he left the restraints of his command chair and walked towards the door.
"Aye Aye, I have the bridge Sir." Retorted Commander Wright.

COM Koerner walked the long tight corridors of the Firestorm passing dozens of commissioned officers and enlisted personell that stood to one side while saluting. COM Koerner ignored most of them, as it be quite a chore to salute every person that came his way. Only acknowledging any verbal gestures.

The entrance to the 1st Flight Deck was on level 14 and was crowded with equipment and personell coming and going as the mechanics and aviation engineers worked feverishly to repair the damage to two of the Fighters of the 864th "DevilDogs" Squadron. They had been launched at Natia to investigate a Psinar annomaly. During their flight, two of the fighters had clipped each others wings as one of the pilots banked avoiding some debris left from a previous battle. COM Koerner wanted to know if Lt. Commander Perish would need anything specific once they arrived at Norse, as well he had become bored of sitting on the bridge for the past 8 hours and the incident at Natia had given him the excuse to get off the bridge.

As COM Koerner walked through the blastdoors that seperated the Flight deck from the rest of the ship, Someone yelled. "Captain ONDECK!"
Immediately everyone aside from Mechdroids stopped what they were doing, turned and stood at attention. As the individual who yelled as COM Koerner entered saluted. COM Koerner returned the salute and immediately barked. "As you were!"

Lt.Cmdr Perish standing a few dozen feet from the blast doors, came striding over to the Commodore and saluted.
"Sir, What can I do for?" Asked Lt.Cmdr Perish.
COM Koerner returned the salute. "Just wanted to see how the repairs were coming, Commander...Is there anything your going to need from Norse? Any specific equipment your FlightDeck is missing or in dire need of?" Commodore Koerner asked.
"Well Sir, I already sent up a LOGPAC request for some new ordinance lifts, the ones we currently have are in bad shape, but I cant count on Norse Logistics to give us what we need, they havent for the last 3 months." answered Lt. Cmdr Perish.
"Hmm, Ok Ill see what strings I can pull on Norse, I know the Base Logistics Commander pretty well. Just make sure those two fighters are operational when by the time we get to Norse. We have no idea how long were going to be there." Commodore Koerner said.
"They'll be ready by then Sir." retorted Lt.Cmdr Perish.
Commodore Koerner only nodded and procceeded for the door.

Location: Valiant Sector, Thallaos System, Norse Base
Region: Eastern Expanse, Eastern Frontlines
Regional Command: VALCOM/AFCOM/CENTCOM
Fleet: 375th Aegis Defense Fleet
Time: 11:32 VSST (Valiant Sector Standard Time)

The 375th came out of phase space a few hundred meters from the new minefield that now lined the gravity well closest to the phase lane leading back to Thallaos. Within seconds of arriving NFC, Norse Flight Control, was issuing orders to individual ships and squadrons. Informing them of their docking assignements. The majority of Captital ships were to dock at the StarBase Pheta Ki that orbitted Norse. While the dozens of squadrons of cruisers and frigates were to dock at the Repair Bays that surrounded the Asteroid. Some frigates, were ordered to dock at the Norse Base Logistics Access Flight Deck. A large shuttle bay that had been converted from a pirate ship factory to a landing bay for numerous sized shuttles. It had enough room to allow one frigate sized vessel to dock at a time, while being resupplied and repaired.

On the opposite side of the minefield the 417th was lining up to jump out of Norse and on to Thallaos to begin their routine patrol of the system. Within minutes of arriving the 417th disappeared from the gravity well in hundreds of flashes of lights. Once the 417th was gone, the NFC gave the 375th permission to approach Norse and the static defenses that dotted the gravity well. It didnt take long for the ships to find their rightful docking stations.

"Sir, Communique from Norse Command, downloading intel and orders now." Lt. Emerson stated.
"Very well Lieutenant. Copy it to a Datapad." Ordered COM Koerner.
"Yes sir." Answered Lt. Emerson.

A few short minutes later, Lt. Emerson walked over to the Commodore and handed him a roster with thousands of names.

"Appears to be a shoreleave roster sir." Lt. Emerson said.

COM Koerner only looked up at her and nodded indicating she could go back to her station. The first few thousand names were highlighted in a neon blue. Then followed by thousands of names listed in yellow and followed by names in green. Each list contained names from every ship, listing them to go on shoreleave at different times so that someone could be on the ship at all times.

Beneath the very long list of names was a brief summary of current events within Valiant. And one of them stuck out like a sore thumb. The Mako system had lost the two task forces assigned to its defense. And Mako was now under siege by a full Advent fleet and two Advent Crusade Groups. The system had been designated by the Central Network of Intelligence as unimportant because of how far out it was from the Valiant Cluster Systems and its lack of resources. The Mako System was atleast a three days jump from even the closest system and atleast 29 days from Fathom. And with the constant assaults by Advent Raiding parties the CNI felt the dedicated Fleets were needed elsewhere. That Mako would be overlooked by any Advent looking to establish a foothold because of the strain it would put on supplylines. The CNI was wrong, like usual, they underestimated the Advents tenacity and commitment to tackling challenging obstacles. The Advent now had a chokehold on the Mako System and the only Fleet capable of responding was the 375th. But even the 375th couldnt handle an entire Advent Fleet and two Crusade Groups. They would need reinforcements if they had any chance to retake Mako.

At the end of the intel summary was an order for COM Koerner to transfer from the Firestorm to Norse Command to recieve a briefing on the current situation and recieve orders on actions to be taken against the Advent Incursion.

"Lt. Emerson, inform your relief to report for duty, you and I are going planetside for the next few days." COM Koerner said.
"Yes sir." Said Lt. Emerson, and with that she turned back to her console to chime Lt. Banners.

Hours later on level 14's Flight Deck where COM Koerner and Lt. Emerson waited, a shuttle only large enough to carry a dozen personell landed. It was slick and obviously designed for landing in areas with little to no room for commercialized shuttles. Once onboard the Commodore and Lieutenant stowed their bags and strapped in. As they launched from the Firestorm the sheer size of Norse became evident. From the shuttles windows, the passengers could see hundreds of tradeships and shuttles swarming around the asteroid. Norse might have been a TEC Outpost, but it was also a symbol of the TEC's power over the Trade Orders economy. And the Structures jutting out of the sides of the asteroid and rising like skyscrappers reminded all that Norse wasnt always a TEC stronghold. That years ago, the Trade Order was under siege by another enemy.

Norse was an abandoned Pirate base, left behind after the Trade Order had enacted the Anti-Piracy Shelter Act 221 years prior. The APSA had brought heavy sanctions and taxes to sectors and systems known to have heavy pirate activity. The local Defense Fleets were spurred to action from local politicans looking to make nice with the Trade Order Council. Pirates by the millions were displaced under the pressure of Planetary Defense Fleets.

For hundreds of years the Trade Order fought with itself over how to handle the menacing issue of piracy. And finally after experiencing a major increase in piracy across the Empire due to lax protection for wayward merchant ships and individual planets. The Trade Order came under heavy fire for its lack of resolve in dealing with the systems known to shelter pirates that in turn agreed not to attack the host system. This all ended with the ASPA. Now every system was charged with hunting and expelling pirates or face losing important tax cuts and key resources shipped to the regions. 

In recent history the Norse asteroid came under control of the TEC as they made a move to organize Asteroids and Asteroid belts into Staging Points for TEC military operations. The Vasari and Advents ability to overrun entire Trade Order planets forced the TEC to create fallback positions where they could regroup and attempt to retake planets that fell to the enemies of the Trade Order.

As soon as the shuttle landed both COM Koerner and Lt. Emerson were greeted by Fleet Admiral Heins assistant,Commander Birch, and lead to their quarters that they'd stay at for the next few days while being updated on the current crisis in the sector. Once they put away their bags, the two were then led to a Messhall to get something to eat. After eating a late dinner, they were again lead by Cmdr Birch to the Norse Command Administrative Offices where Flt Adm Heins was located. Walking into Flt Adm Heins office COM Koerner stood to attention and saluted.

"Commodore Koerner reporting Sir." COM Koerner stated.
Looking up from the pile of datapads on his desk Flt Adm Heins smiled.
"Lewis, I was wondering when youd get here, How you been?" asked Flt Adm Heins.
"Im doing pretty good, how are you and the Family Sir?" asked COM Koerner.
"Well, Ive seen better days..." pointing at the pile of briefs and requests on his desk."But Meriam and the girls are doing just fine."
"Good to hear sir." COM Koerner plugged.
"What about you Lewis...? When you going to finally start a family of your own?" asked Flt. Adm Heins.
COM Koerner smiled slightly. "As soon as you give me enough time off to meet a nice girl, Sir."
"Thats not going to happen anytime soon, not with the current state of affairs, that might not be for a few years." retorked Flt Adm Heins."Please sit down, we have alot to go over and not much
time at all."
COM Koerner took a seat as Flt Adm Heins handed him a Datapad with the most up to date info on the Mako situation.
 
"Hours before you left Natia, A large Advent Fleet phase jumped to the Mako Star, The two task groups, the 42nd and the 89th, both stationed in different gravity wells were activated. But because of the distances between the planets and the star. Both Task groups engaged the Advent Fleet, and both were lost. Not long after, Psinar in the system picked up two seperate Crusade groups arriving at the star. Approximately 11 hours later. Parnos, Velra, and Thatos IV dropped off the communications net. CNI believes the whole system will fall silent within the next 5 days. And theres no point in sending you back out to intercept the Advent...We wont get Mako back, We'll just lose another Fleet and will lose our ability manuveur while safeguarding the Cluster. So we've decided, to allow the system to fall into Advent hands for now. But, they wont hold it for long. About 9 months long AFCOM approved the Xonia and Georo Sectors to create two Fleets for the purpose of unlocking the stalemate here in the Valiant Sector. About 3 weeks ago they were launched and ordered to report to VALCOM for duty. Theyll be here in another two weeks. Their orders have come down, and their supposed to be taking up for 577th and 467th, who will then join the 375th at the Thallaos Star. What happens once you jump in is up to you Lewis, Youll have Command of the operation once on station. The 577th and 467th will be at your disposal. Just do us a favor and kick those religious freaks asses for us." Flt Adm Heins stopped talking and looked up at COM Koerner. " Give those fuckers hell."
"Well send them back to their Coalesence Mommies Sir." Responded COM Koerner.
"Alright then Lewis, Get too it." Flt Adm Heins said.
"Yes sir, Good to see you again Admiral." answered COM Koerner.

COM Koerner got up and left. Walking out of the Admirals office Lt. Emerson stood and followed him.

"We have alot to do before we can take our three day shoreleave Emerson. Meet me at Briefing room A tomorrow at 08:00." Ordered COM Koerner. "Good evening Lieutenant."
"Yes sir...Goodnight." Lt. Emerson said.

The two parted ways as they approached their quarters. Taking one last look at each other as they entered their rooms to get some much needed rest.

i bet alot of people would go see that. It actually let us see alot more lore then the little we have.

Well, FPS games have had movies made out of them, so why not Sins for a cheesy space war action movie?

Im trying to do some research for the second chapter. Finding it hard to get an actual number on a Naval Squadron. Dont want to just throw numbers up there only for it to make no sense.

I already have it worked out in my head just dont want to start on it til I have everything.

Thanks for the support guys.

ima have to disagree Thaltos, if we open one thread with the different stories being written it be hard to make heads or tails which chapter belongs to which storyline.

A fanfiction Section in the Boards would be nice on the other hand though. It allow us to concollidate the long and short stories that litter the forums.

Chapter: 002

"Resolve"

Location: Valiant Sector, Thallaos System, Norse Base
Region: Eastern Expanse, Eastern Frontlines
Regional Command: VALCOM/AFCOM/CENTCOM
Fleet: 375th Aegis Defense Fleet
Time: 10:21 VSST (Valiant Sector Standard Time)

The briefing room was the size of a small auditorium capable of holding up to 50 personell. The main briefing room table sat closest to the holovid hub that was large enough for everyone in the room to see clearly. The main table wasnt the same as one might expect to find in a briefing room. The seats were only located to one side and the table itself jutted up from the floor at an angle away from the holovid hub and then leveled off. Near the center sat COM Koerner and Lt Emerson hunched over Datapads and handsized holovids. It had been 4 days since they had arrived there at Norse. They had been sleeping more then usual, but you wouldnt be able to tell. The stress of consolidating information with constantly updated intel, and working it into a constantly changing strategy had taken its toll. The two were now running on caffine.

The fight for Mako was still weeks away, and surely the strategy would change by then. But VALCOM was going to be sitting in on the intial briefing in just two days and expected to hear more then just what the Advent had been up to. They wanted to know what the 375th had planned as a response. The commanders of the escort squadrons had been coming in and out all morning bringing up to date information to the Commodore. Most of it didnt effect his plans for the assault, but sometimes the Advents movements had thrown a wrench in his plans. A day before, news came in from the first scout ships into the system of Advent Starbases already under construction. They wouldnt be completed or even manned by the time they launched their mission to retake Mako. But it did mean slowing the three Fleets movements. He now had to work the math in his head for when the 577th and 467th would need to jump after the 375th.

"Could you pass me the holovid that shows the positions of the first two starbases Lieutenant?" He asked.
"Here you go sir." answered Lt. Emerson as she passed him the holovid.

He looked at it for a few seconds then shaking his head.

"Trying to get a starbase up in this short amount of time is wasting key resources. So why would the Advent be so wasteful?" said COM Koerner outloud.
"Maybe they think itll slow us up." responded Lt. Emerson.
"The most they could hope to do by slowing us up, is get some of the smaller static defense platforms up. And even that wont stop us. They just dont have time on their side here." he retorted. "Theres something else going on here. The Advent arent wasteful whatsoever."

He placed the holovid down and transfered the data over to another holovid that held a sandtable with TEC ships in a formation at Mako. Icons for the starbases appeared on the sandtable.

"Emerson, how about you go grab us some danishes and orange juice from the messhall, I have a feeling were going to miss lunch today." said COM Koerner.
"Yes, sir." answered Lt. Emerson.
"Grab two or three of the big packages of danishes...dont let anyone see you." He said with a smile.
Lt. Emerson just smiled and noded as she turned and procceeded to leave the briefing room. 

Minutes later Cmdr Preston of the TDN Dominance, another Kol Battleship in the 375th entered the briefing room and walked up to the Comodore. He placed another datapad ontop a stack that was continuously growing.

"Thatos II, Myaria, Pariah and Cuspa has fallen. Only Noz and Thaltos Prime now stand. CNI's prediction is on time so far Sir." Cmdr Preston said.
COM Koerner looked up at him unsurprised at the news. "CNI has always been good at telling us bad news. But even a 5th grader could do the math and tell you how long it would take the Advent to take Mako entirely." He said. "Has VALCOM tried to contact any of these planets?"
"No sir, They figure the populations are already in panic. Kindof hard to keep the news from getting around in todays day and age. Whats coming out of the area is anger for the TEC, they cant understand why we havent mounted a response yet." said Preston.
"Well, lets hope those two new fleets arent too little, too late Commander." COM Koerner responded."You can return to the Command Center Commander."
"Yes sir." answered Cmdr Preston.
And with that, Cmdr Preston aboutfaced and walked out of the briefing room.

By 19:00 the pair had decided to call it quits for the day. They cleaned up their mess, throwing out the empty packages of danishes and orange juice cartons and began stacking the datapads and holovids into their assault packs. Emerson began turning out the lights while COM Koerner carried the trash bins and assault packs to the door placing them as close to the automatic doors as possible. Lt. Emerson walked over in the dark and grabbed her assault pack throwing it over her right shoulder, looking up at the Commodore with an exhausted but happy look. She was all too happy the work day was over. She'd be able to get out of her combatboots and her jumpsuit that now felt heavy.

"Those three days are starting to look really good sir." Emerson said with a tired voice.
"Well you only have one more day, and you can go down to the Plaza and enjoy yourself with all the other sailors and marines." COM Koerner said with a smile.

Lt. Emerson smiled as the Commodore opened the door and allowed her to walk out infront of him.

Location: Valiant Sector, Thallaos System, Norse Base
Region: Eastern Expanse, Eastern Frontlines
Regional Command: VALCOM/AFCOM/CENTCOM
Fleet: 375th Aegis Defense Fleet
Time: 06:30 VSST (Valiant Sector Standard Time)

It was the morning of the briefing, Noz and Thatos Prime had fallen silent only 14 hours prior. And the Commodore had to present the plan to retake Mako to not only those that were under him, but Flt Adm Heins and VALCOM leadership. No matter how many times he found himself speaking before a crowd of peers, subordinates and leadership he always had a sickening feeling in his stomach. It wasnt the pressure of speaking before a crowd. But the constant reminder that the odds were stacked against them, and his plan could mean the fall of Valiant. The three fully dedicated Fleets were all that stood between the Advent and the Valiant Cluster. The loss of just one fleet would be a catastrophic kill and put the TEC on the retreat from Valiant. Standing over the sink COM Koerner collected himself. Grabbing the top to his dress uniform and the datapads and holovids, needed for his briefing, he walked out his quarters.

As he walked down the corridor towards the Briefing room, he straightened his top with his hand. On his left shoulder was a circular patch, with two rings in it. In the outer ring of the patch the words Trader Emergency Coalition was stitched, and on the bottom of the outer ring were the initials for the Aegis Defense Navy. A reference to the 375ths birth place and first assignment within the TEC. Aegis was a sector that was the first to respond to the Advent threat and paid dearly for it. A blunder in calculating the Advents intentions, the CNI had the majority of Fleets in the sector converge on one system to repel an Advent Armada which was trap. While in the process phase jumping the Advent launched a second assualt on the Sectors Capital Aegis. Within weeks the entire Sector was under control of the Advent and the remaining fleets were in full retreat.  Within the inner ring was a swooping Omega symbol with the number 375 in the center. Signifying the ADN's resolve to fight to the very end. Unfortunately the 375th along with 4 other dedicated fleets commissioned in the Aegis Sector were in other Sectors during the Fall of Aegis. And werent able to assist in its defense. On his other shoulder was a shield with TECs flaming sword that symbolized the commitment to victory that burned within every heart of the Trade Orders Citizens. And with a ribbon that crossed the bottom of the shield wrote in latin, read Custodes Ordo, Guardians of the Order. His uniform was much different then the classic navy blue uniforms with gold chains and accessories. The classic dress uniforms were worn by the first generation until reports started to come in about hundreds of individuals dying not because of destruction of their ships but the immense burns. The fires would get so hot it would fuse the accessories to the skin causing agonizing pain for dying crewmembers. The decision was made to reserve the classic dress uniforms for events and parades. That the firstline units would be assigned more conservative jumpsuits and a more conservative dress uniform for inspections and other functions. The only accessory on him other then the 16 medals stacked in rows on his chest was white cord that attached at the shoulder and went under his armpit. This cord signified the pure honor of the field units that were tasked with the defense of the Trade Order.

Outside the Briefing room stood Commander Preston. He would be acting as COM Koerners asisstant for the day. 

"Good Morning sir, Everyone is present and waiting for the briefing to get underway." Cmdr Preston reported.
"Alright...lets get this over with." COM Koerner said.

The two walked through the doors and proceeded to the front of the briefing room where the Commander and Excutive officers of VALCOM and Flt Adm. Heins were seated. Cmdr Preston took a seat near the stand where COM Koerner would present his plans for the capture of Mako. As COM Koerner turned and stopped behind the stand. He placed his datapads and holovids on the ports and the massive holovid hub behind him lit up with a Forcepoint 7.5 presentation.  Grabbing the holovid controller, a remote a laser pointer built in, he walked to the center of room. As he looked up the entire room was packed. Infact there were more then he had expected. Commanders, lined the back wall of the Briefing room, standing there waiting for COM Koerner to begin.

Taking a deep breath he began.

"Before I start, Id like to thank General Hayes and Colonel Woods from VALCOM for joining us today. As well Fleet Admiral Heins for being present today aswell." COM Koerner hated the asskissing that came with the job. But there wasnt much he could do. It was an expected part of being in such a position. Its the one reason he was still only a Captain. He had been passed up on promotion because he didnt take kindly to some paperpusher telling him what he needed to do while the pompus ass sat cozily back in some office lightyears away with COM Koerner and his Fleet ducking and dodging death. 

He then turned at the hip and clicked the holovid controller and the image changed to a layout of the Mako System. The planets and asteroids in the system were illuminated blue, signifying TEC control of the system just under a week ago.

"A little over 6 days ago, an Advent Fleet with well over 300 Capitals, Cruisers and Frigates came onto station at Mako. Weve designated this Fleet as AF 00. The two task forces stationed in the system, on opposite sides of Mako were activated in response. But because of the distances between Mako and the two planets the 42nd and 89th Task Groups engaged the Advent Fleet at different times. They were both eliminated, no known survivors." He stopped speaking and clicked at the holovid once again. "About an hour later 2 Crusade Groups arrived at Mako to bring the total number of Advent ships to 380 ships, give or take a few Disciples. These two Crusade Groups have been designated CG 1A and CG 2A.  12 hours later, Parnos, Velra and Thatos IV dropped off the communications net." Clicking the screen again the three planets went from blue to red with an artistic Advent cross in the center. " Over the next few days, a supplyline was established and construction on three Starbases began...They wont be combat ready by the time we begin our assault, but they will keep us at the Star for atleast 6 more hours while we neutralize the Advents hold on the Star. During that time, The two Crusade Groups then took control of Riah, Xutoc and Thatos III. AF 00 stood guard at Mako til the 5th day, when it was relieved by by what we can tell as CG 2A. AF 00 then proceeded to Thatos Prime and by the end of the evening last night. Thatos Prime came under Advent control. Noz fell within an hour of that to CG 1A." Clicking once more the entire system went red with the cross covering all the spheres within Mako.

COM Koerner walked back over to the stand and clicked the control once more. Bringing up a closer view of Mako.

"At 02:00 this morning, another Crusade group entered the system. Designation CG 1B. Bringing the total of ships in the system as of right now to 545. And we can only count on that number to steadily rise here in the following weeks. This isnt just a move to reinforce Mako, they're staging for a massive push into the Clusters."

He looked down at the datapad infront of him with his notes displayed.

"The plan is to jump the 375th into Mako alone, clear out the star of any defensive units and its installations. This will prevent confusion once volleys are exchanged. As well keep us from putting all our eggs into one basket so to speak. About 6 hours after the 375th arrives at Mako, both 577th and 467th will jump in. The time it takes to jump from Thallaos to Mako is 3 days and 15 hours, give or take a few minutes. So once the 375th jumps out of Thallaos, 577th and 467th will wait 6 hours before jumping. Once the three fleets are in position. The 577th will jump directly to Thatos IV, 3 hours later, 467th will jump to Parnos. The 375th will jump out an hour later destined for Velra. Since these three planets are the only planets that lead back to Mako, and Velra being isolated, with only connections to Parnos and Thatos IV. Its imperative that we stike in conjunction cutting off the supplyline leading deep into the system. Once the 375th eliminates the threat at Velra, It will turn around and return to Mako to guard 577ths and 467ths 6. At that point construction of 4 starbases will begin as a counter measure to any further Advent Incursions. The 577th and 467th will then jump planet to planet eliminating the Advent presence as they go. This will continue til we have located AF 00 and CG 1A and CG 1B or we have successfully engaged them and eliminated them before taking every planet. If we do not engage them. And theyre held up on Thatos Prime or Noz, Both fleets will converge to assualt the enemy Fleet in unision. Once the threat has been neutralized. They will then proceed back to Mako where they will take up guard while the starbases are finished. The 375th will remain in the general vacinity of Mako for the next few weeks to insure the Advent do not counter with more ships." He stopped speaking and looked up at the crowd.

"That is all." Said COM Koerner. "But before you leave. Flt Adm Heins would like to address everyone. Admiral?"

Flt Admiral Heins stood up and walked around the table he had been sitting at and approached the stand while COM Koerner took a seat near Commander Preston.

"I know alot of you have a few days shoreleave that begins today, so I wont keep you for long. I know weve been at this for a very very long time. Most of us cant even remember what it was like back before the Vasari arrived. And I know weve been very vigilant here in the Valiant Sector. Some more so then others, But what takes place over these next few weeks, will surely decide wether Valiant stays in our hands. Or falls to the Advent. We can not afford to lose Valiant. For the last year. Advent presence has grown here in the Eastern Expanse. And while there was a lull there for two or so years. The Advent are now back on their A Game. And Valiant is one of the last Sectors holding the Advent back from sweeping this entire region. This isnt just for the safety of Valiant. But the future of the Trade Order. And I promise you. If those nutjobs come a knocking here at Norse. I promise you, Ill be out there in a damn D-31 Valkyre Class Fighter shoving my TEC boot up their unity asses. Our prayers are with you, And you have the full support of VALCOM behind you. You ask for it, youll get it. Now enjoy your shoreleave. And when you come back in two days. Be ready to make some poor Advent children orphans." Flt Adm Heins looked up at everyone in the room. "Dismissed."

Chapter: 003

"Big Brother, Big Sister"

Location: Valiant Sector, Thallaos System, Norse Base
Region: Eastern Expanse, Eastern Frontlines
Regional Command: VALCOM/AFCOM/CENTCOM
Fleet: 375th Aegis Defense Fleet
Time: 16:57 VSST (Valiant Sector Standard Time)

COM Koerner sat in a small hole in the wall restuarant, serving a mix of oriental food. Chi in one hand and a HoloNews Cast in the other he watched the headlines sweep across the screen. It was his last day of shoreleave and the news of the Advents incursion had spread like a wildfire. Most of the info being blasted was either watered down info or misinformation leaked by CNI in an attempt to keep the Advent whiskers from getting any clues as to what the TEC knew and planned on doing.

It wasnt a question of wether the TEC as a whole was being watched, but what exactly the Advent were listening for. The war of information was considered to be the real war. It had started long before the Advents arrival. CENTCOM and CNI firmly believed that years prior to the first Advent Fleets appearance, they had unleashed thousands of scouts deep into TEC territory. Mapping out the sectors, listening to political rheotoric and even taking stock of the TEC arsenal and military industry that spread through out the Eastern, Western and Core Sectors. The fact the Advent swept over TEC space with ease, even in areas that only the most experienced Merchants were willing to risk travel, solidified the Advents intelligence network as being far ahead of the TEC abilities. This showmanship of intel savyness forced CENTCOM and CNI to withhold intel privy to even those that needed it the most. Out of fear of losing ground in the war of information, CNI would allow entire systems even dedicated fleets to fall silent for the sake of one upping the Advent. The closer to the frontline, the less you truely knew. And under strict orders were those that actually had a clue. Everyone with a high enough security clearance and some kind of knowledge CNI believed to be important carried Arsenic capsules in their Combands they wore on their wrists. If the ship was overrun or damaged beyond repair and escape. The Intel personnel and the Commanders would swallow the capsules and commit suicide.

COM Koerner was one of these individuals. His service in the TEC spanned the entire duration of the war with both Advent and Vasari. His first assignment was an N-13 Trojan class Bomber Mechanic onboard the TDN Gylipso, a Marza Class, one of the first civilian to military ships deployed to engage the Vasari. The Marzas were the first pick by TOD, Trade Order Defense the precursor to the TEC, because of their easy changeover from civilian asteriod pounder to military dreadnaught. Months after the Vasari's arrival COM Koerner had joined the Zeinthe Defense Fleet on the cusp of the Core Worlds. Within the first year, he was ordered to the frontlines. The sporadic fighting between the TEC and Vasari brought him quick promotions and a commossion, it also sent him criscrossing the Western Expanse. After the Gylipso was lost at Torch, he found himself commanding the DragonBreath, A Kodiak class Heavy Cruiser. Soon he rose to Squadron Commander and his extensive knowledge of the Western Expanse layout made him a liability to the TEC. 

His knowledge was sought after more then ever, the Advent were now looking for a way to undermine the TEC within the Western Expanse. And individuals like COM Koerner were prime targets for the Advent Intel community. People like COM Koerner were wetdreams for Advent intel.

As COM Koerner brought his cup of chi down from his face, he noticed a thinly built woman across the promenade looking his way. She stood about 5'9" maybe 5'10", dark hair with chesnut eyes and a light brown tint to her skin. She wore a less formal navy blue dress uniform and had a confident demeanor to her. It took him a second to register her appearance before he recognized her. It was Captain Eilean Diaz, He had known her for the last 7 years. And in that time they had become good friends. Before he could gesture her over, she started towards him with a more then delighted smile on her face.

"Lewis where have you been hiding?" Questioned Capt. Diaz.

"Now you know I dont hide from anything Eile." responded COM Koerner.

"Well word has it, youve been planetside for the last 9 days, you saying you had no time to come visit me?" Capt. Diaz asked.

"Ive been the most part of those 9 days, and the other three days, Ive spent catching up on sleep. And you know I wont go near your Medbay with all the drama going on in there." answered COM Koerner. " Still havent gotten rid of ole' Grumpy have ya?" asked Koerner as he gestured his cup of chi towards her Captain insignia.

"Nope, Admiral Marcinko hasnt come down on orders yet for something far safer then the Valiant Sector. Wont shut up about how he just keeps getting overlooked by TMDCOM. And I dont blame you, Ive never seen a bigger group of cry babies in my life. retorked Capt. Diaz. "You'd think theyd be glad to be planet side instead of risking it out there onboard a battleship."

COM Koerner only smiled at the thought of Norse Bases Medical Department having a mental breakdown the first time their ship took a direct hit. Some people were just not meant for the heat of battle. Unfortunately you couldnt always know who was meant for what until the shit hit the fan. Only then did you know if you had a dedicated crew capable of fighting off a brush with death.

"So I hear youve been tasked with leading the charge, does this mean VALCOM is looking at promoting you soon?" Asked Capt. Diaz.

COM Koerner cracked a smile and let out a half a laugh before responding. "Yeah thats not going to happen til the day I stop overruling VALCOMs direct orders. Only reason Im being given this oppurtunity is because Flt Adm. Heins has no one else to turn. If someone else had as much time put in roaming this Sector sweeping up Advent dribble Id be answering to them not the other way around."

Captain Diaz only gave him a warm smile and tapped his hand.

"How have you been? Its been atleast 3 and a 1/2 months since I last saw you." He asked.

"Not much, for all the things you can do here at Norse, you eventually become bored of it and find yourself locked away in your quarters alot." answered Capt. Diaz. "What about you? Anything change for you?"

"Just a few months older, thats about it." chimed COM Koerner.

The two continued to discuss different things that had been going on back home and the news of nephews and nieces coming of age, some joining the TEC others smart enough to avoid it like the plague going off to Economic Universities intent on making it big in the TO money machine. This went on for atleast another two hours before the two finally called it an evening.

Location: Valiant Sector, Thallaos System, Norse Base
Region: Eastern Expanse, Eastern Frontlines
Regional Command: VALCOM/AFCOM/CENTCOM
Fleet: 375th Aegis Defense Fleet
Time: 14:38 VSST (Valiant Sector Standard Time) 

Far above Norse, the 375th were reforming after running the same drill and exercise for the 7th time that day. They had started out early around 06:30 and had been going through the ropes of a new technique the CIC had been brainstorming on. It was a manuver that would give a TEC fleet the edge in a head to head confrontation with an Advent dedicated Fleet. So far the squadrons of frigates and cruisers had their bit down. The harder part was left to the actual Capital ships that had the task of slamming head on into the enemy. The timing had to be just right for the manuver to work properly. And the 375th found themselves recocked time and time again to attempt to prefect it.

As the 375th came to a full stop and took a short break, flashes from the deep end of the Norse gravity well lit up the portside of the various ships and shuttles moving about. Within seconds dozens of Arcovas had arrived at Norse and swiftly moved for the opposite end of the gravity well. Their destination was Thallaos and then on to Mako, they were going to infiltrate Mako and feed live info back to the rest of VALCOM. Their were enough for atleast 3 Arcovas per gravity well once they arrived at Mako, tripling the chances of feeding back trueblue information. As well maintaining a presence even if one or two Arcovas were lost.

They moved swiftly and within the hour they sat poised to jump out of Norse. Their presence only caught the attention of the 375th for a few minutes before moving on to more pertinant tasks. Cmdr Wright sat in his chair back and to the left of COM Koerner. He was far older then COM Koerner, by atleast 15 years. But he joined up for the fight later in his life and only after the first generation had come down on orders for early retirement. Wright was a short but stocky man, balding on the top of his head with a thicket of grey forming above his ears and slowly spreading to what was left of his hair. Though his greying sides hinted at his age, he was in peak condition. Something COM Koerner was sure of. Months prior he witnessed Wright lift a large heavy steel beam off of a Tactical Officer after the bridge took extensive damage during a firefight with an Advent Crusade Group.

"Lt. Gavart, Run a diagnostic on the aft railguns, they were sluggish the last time through the exercise." Ordered Cmdr Wright.

"Aye Aye, sir." Answered Lt. Gavart at the second tactical station.

Because of the extensive size of the Kols, the Tactical duties were split between two Tactical officers. One officer charged with the front and right side gun emplacements. And the other, charged with the rear and left side gun emplacements. While they didnt actually fire the rail and flak guns. They made sure those that did, knew what they were to shoot at.

"Captain, Comunique from Norse Base, Its Flt Adm Heins Sir." Chimed Lt. Emerson.

"On the HUD Lieutenant." Ordered COM Koerner.

A split second later, The portly Admirals face appeared on the screen before the crew of the Bridge.

"Commodore, Just wanted to inform you of the current status." Informed Flt Adm. Heins. "The 872nd and the 695th have arrived in the Valiant sector. They will arrive at their assigned systems within the next two days. Itll take another 3 days before 577th and 467th will be able to fully hand over command to the two green fleets. But They should arrive at Thallaos in the 2 days following their release. I expect you to be waiting for them by then. Youll do a quick resupply at Beta StarBase before launching to Mako."

"Understood Sir." Answered COM Koerner.

"God Speed, Commodore, Our prayers are with you all." Flt Adm. Heins said.

And with that the connection was severed. For a few short seconds the Bridge fell silent short of a few chimes and buzzes coming from the consoles. COM Koerner stood to his feet and turned to Lt. Emerson.

"Fleet wide communique Lieutenant." Ordered COM Koerner.

"Connection established sir." Answered Lt. Emerson.

"This is Commodore Koerner speaking, Weve recieved word of our departure for Mako. Within a week, We will be enroute to liberate Mako, and Valiant of the Advent infestation. I expect all of you to be fully prepared for the fight ahead of us. And I expect you all to give your very best in these next few days as we train up for our confrontation. Our mission is simple. Its execution will be difficult. But I know were up to the challenge. The exercise will resume in 9 minutes. That is all." said COM Koerner.

that is , that  is

"fanfiction Section "

Allegiance86

ima have to disagree Thalatos, if we open one thread with the different stories being written it be hard to make heads or tails which chapter belongs to which storyline.

A fanfiction Section in the Boards would be nice on the other hand though. It allow us to concollidate the long and short stories that litter the forums

Chapter: 004

"Shootout at Mako"



Location: Valiant Sector, Thallaos System, Thallaos
Region: Eastern Expanse, Eastern Frontlines
Regional Command: VALCOM/AFCOM/CENTCOM
Fleet: 375th Aegis Defense Fleet
Time: 15:10 VSST (Valiant Sector Standard Time)


Thallaos was one of the most heavily fortified stars in the Sector. It had a direct phase link to Vica, Valiants Capital System. Which meant it was one of the stars that were occupied by four Starbases. Three defensive structures and one trade oriented Starbase. Invictus, Beta, Ovalis and Numeria were not only a safeguard but also a gift of relaxation to wary crews returning from standard or even extended patrols.

Invictus, Beta and Ovalis stood watch on the very edge of Thallaos gravity well closest to the phase lane leading out into deep space where Mako lie. While Numeria sat opposite of that in the general direction of Vica.  The 375th surrounded Beta Starbase. Each taking turns docking to allow for one last resupply before pushing out and jumping to Mako. The 375th had arrived two days before late in the evening. And quickly pushed to Beta to begin preparations for their departure. The next day both the 577th and 467th arrived and followed suit by docking with Invictus and Ovalis. The automatic doors to the Firestorms Bridge slid open as COM Koerner entered and quickly found his way to his Command Chair.

"Lt. Emerson, Request clearance codes. Lt. Velez begin departure proceedures." Ordered COM Koerner.
"Aye Aye, Sir." Responded both Lt. Emerson and Velez simultaniously.

COM Koerner eased into his chair and began locking himself into his restraints.

Velez punched in commands at the Helm, while Emerson began sending communiques back and forth to Beta Base. Within a few short minutes the ship had been given permission to leave SpaceDock.

"The Firestorm has recieved permission to leave SpaceDock and proceed to coordinates 3341.966 and 25.89 Captain." Informed Lt. Emerson.
"Understood Lieutenant. Mr Velez, Take us out at .5 impulse." Stated COM Koerner.
"Aye Sir, disengaging PowerLeads and Docking Clamps." The ship shook slightly as the Lieutenant continued. "Firing braking thrusters. Clearing Docking Booms, Turning 45 degrees starboard."
"Once were clear of Beta Lt. Proceed to the coordinates at .8 impulse."Commanded COM Koerner.
"Aye Aye Sir, .8 impulse to 3341.966 horiz. and 25.89 vert." Answered Lt. Velez.

Within a short few minutes, the Firestorm had cleared Beta and pushed ahead of the fleet towards the jump coordinates. In the distance both the 577th and the 467th had began to push to similar coordinates.

"Ms. Emerson, Communique to the Fleet, standard tight formation. Have CIC relay relative coordinates to all Squadron Commanders." Ordered COM Koerner.
"Aye Sir, standard tight formation, relaying coordinates to CIC, time now." stated Lt. Emerson.

Emerson tapped her console as she opened a comm with CIC while sending orders via text to all Squadron Leaders. After exhanging words with CIC she turned her seat slightly to face the Commodore.

"CIC is relaying coordinates and all Squadron Leaders are reporting their ships are in position, Sir." Informed Lt. Emerson
"Understood. Lt." Stated COM Koerner. "Open a Fleetwide Comm, Lt. Begin Fleetwide countdown to jump set at 5 minutes."
"Countdown initiated, Fleetwide Comm is open sir." Lt. Emerson responded.

"This is COM Koerner speaking, In 5 short minutes we will jump from Thallaos onto Mako. The traveltime is 3 days and 15 hours. 20 minutes prior to arrival at Mako, I expect everyone to be at their respective battlestations. All PCIs and PCCs are to be completed before that time. Fighters will launch 15 minutes prior to Bombers. We've trained for this for the past few weeks and Im confident we will be successful. I need everyone well rested and focused come three days from now. Its time to show not only the Advent, but the rest of the Trader Emergency Coalition its time to send them packing. Koerner, Out." As COM Koerner finished, he eased back into his chair and prepared himself for the guttwrenching jump into phase space.

Two short minutes later, the G-Forces pulled him deeper into his chair as the Firestorm went into phase space. Within a few short seconds the entire Fleet had jumped out of Thallaos. Leaving the 577th and 467th behind to stage in their wake.

While technological advances had made communication during phase jumps easier. It was still limited to text that had to remain short in fear of vital information being lost in the noise created by phase jumps. So to keep from relying on
constant updates Fleets had learned to plan extensively in advance and given department heads as much information as possible to allow them to make decisions without running up the chain of command with requests. So for the next three days Lt. Emerson and fellow Communications Officers jobs had become much more complicated as they now had to read hundreds of short text messages sent back and forth between each other. But the CIC had it worst. As they were the hub to all of the ships. They were constantly relaying vital information and likely would have the least amount of rest before the battle.





Location: Valiant Sector, Deep Space, Phase Space
Region: Eastern Expanse, Eastern Frontlines
Regional Command: VALCOM/AFCOM/CENTCOM
Fleet: 375th Aegis Defense Fleet
Time: 06:15 VSST (Valiant Sector Standard Time)


A chime broke the silence in COM Koerners quarters which brought him out of his sleep. It had only felt like a few minutes that he had been asleep. But turning to the chrono sitting at his bedside, he quickly realized it was time for him to return to the bridge before coming out of phase space. Before he could respond to the chime. A soft female voice came over the Comm.

"Captain, All ships are at BattleStations. Requesting your presence on the Bridge Sir." Said Lt. Emerson.
"On my way Lt." COM Koerner responded.

He quickly sat up and put his socks and boots on. A few short seconds later he was zipping up his jumpsuit and making his bed before leaving his quarters. The corridors of the Firestorm were vacant except for a few Marines moving about making sure the crew were lockeddown and the ship was secure. COM Koerner ducked and squeezed his way down the hall and boarded a lift. In no time at all he was leaving the lift and walking down the short corridor to the entrance of the Bridge.

As he entered, infront of him and to the right was Lt Emerson at the Communication Console. To his direct left was Lt.
Gavart at Tactical Station A, beside him was Lt. Silva at Tactical Station B. Farther to the left and just infront of the Tactical Consoles was Lt. Cmdr Wright sitting in his harness. To the far left in the room was Cmdr Colth at the Engineering Station and Lt. Thorne at Operations. And to the direct front of the Bridge, was Lt. Velez at Helm. The lights were dimmed a blueish light filled the room. In the Tactical HUD the tracing lights that surrounded the ship while in phase space could be seen. Across the top right corner scrolled chrono counting down. The Commodore took his seat and strapped in. In little over 10 minutes the 375th would be at Mako and Operation: Siege would begin.

On the Flight Deck the 'DevilDogs' were making their final checks before closing the cockpit canopys. The blastdoors leading out into space were still closed but the forcefield meant to keep oxygen in was already active. Mechanics and Flight Deck Operators were scurrying to clear the launch pad and moving the Valkyres into position for take off. The Flight Deck beneath them, Trojans were being moved into position aswell. The 'WolfPack' pilots were double checking the ordinance before shutting the ordinance bay doors below their wings.

Throughout the ship, the crew were locked down in battlestations. Sitting behind railgun and autocannon command consoles. Besides the orders being given by section leaders, everyone was silent only concerned with the task at hand. Marines were strategically stationed through out the ship in enclaves. The walls of these enclaves were litered with harness seats so that the Marines didnt have to stand during the battles. This way they werent thrown about when the ship took direct hits. Lessing the chances of an unnecessary injury.

From COM Koerners left came a female voice. Lt. Thornes was counting down. "10 seconds til Arrival."

"10...9...8...."

In COM Koerners head he could imagine the DevilDogs closing their cockpit canopys and giving the FDOs a thumbs up.

"7...6...5...."

Their landing gear being locked into launching gear. As the next two Valkyre fighters were positioned at the ready.

"4...3...2...1...."




Location: Valiant Sector, Mako System, Mako
Region: Eastern Expanse, Eastern Frontlines
Regional Command: VALCOM/AFCOM/CENTCOM
Fleet: 375th Aegis Defense Fleet
Time: 06:35 VSST (Valiant Sector Standard Time)


In the Tactical HUD the tracing lights of phase space disentigrated and was replaced by the blinding light of Mako.

"Launching Fighters Sir." Lt. Emerson informed the Commodore.
"Polarize Tactical HUD. Countdown for Bomber Launch on Screen, T Minus 10 minutes. Bring AutoCannons to bear Lt. Gavart. Emerson have CIC relay Enemy positions." Ordered COM Koerner.

The Bridge crew began repeating back status updates and acknowledging the Commodores orders. As the HUD began to polarize. Dozens of small black dots began to appear in the distance under the umbrella of Mako. CG 2A was lying in wait for the 375th.

"Sensors are detecting 45 enemy ships Sir. 2 Halcyons, an assortment of Disciples, Illuminators, Purge, Defense,Subjugators Drones, Crusaders and Guardians." Reported Lt. Thornes leaning over the long range sensors display. "Enemy Fighters have been launched and are inbound. 864th are on intercept Sir."
"Gavarts, Silva. Prepare FlakBursts, fire on your own accord." Ordered COM Koerner.
In unision Gavarts and Silva responded. "Aye Aye, Sir."

Within a few short minutes small balls of fire appeared in the distance between the Crusade Group and the 375th as dozens of TEC and Advent fighters unleashed hell on each other. A couple minutes later the Firestorm shook suddenly as Advent Drone Fighters made a striffing run on her shields. But before they could clear the Capital, 2/3rds of them were cutdown by a burst of flak from the railguns. They arched and rolled away into the darkness of space as they regrouped with other squadrons that had made a pass on other Capitals in the Fleet.

"Incoming enemy bombers. Prepare for impact." Lt. Thornes said.
"FlakBurst wont be ready again just yet. Wheres the 864th Lt. Emerson?" Asked COM Koerner.
"On intercept course Sir. But they wont be able to reach them intime." reported Lt. Emerson.
"Alert the crew." Ordered COM Koerner.
"Aye Sir." Responed Lt. Emerson.

Seconds later the ship rocked violently as Advent bombers unleashed their ordinance onto the Firestorms shields. The Bridge crew could hear the shockwave work its way through the steel beams that reinforced the Bridge deep within the heart of the Firestorm. On the screen the countdown struck ten seconds. The Tactical HUD showed streaks of missiles out into the enemys direction. Kodiaks were now pushing ahead of the Fleet and intercepting the first enemy ships to come into missile range. The 'DevilDogs' came screaming in on the portside and chased the remaining Advent bombers away. As the 'DevilDogs' came about and shot over the Firestorm the 791st 'WolfPack' launched and fell in behind the 864th. Both heading for the closest Halcyon.

"Order the Dominance and Assassin to push forward. Intercept those Halcyons. Have the Liberty and Vigilant fall in behind us." Commanded COM Koerner.
"Aye Sir......Dominance, Assassin, Liberty and Vigilant are pushing forward." reported Lt. Emerson.
"Move us between the Halcyons Lt. Velez." Barked COM Koerner.
"Moving to intercept Sir." Answered Lt. Velez.

As the five ships began to push towards the enemy Capital ships. The Halcyons shields began to flicker, the Trojans bombardment began to take its effect. With the 3 Kols and 2 Dunovs barrelling towards them they began to slowly turn to put distance between them and the TEC ships. But it was too little too late. The Dominance cut the ships off by sliding in on their port side. While the Assassin came to a stop on the starboard side and the Firestorm found itself between the two Halcyons. The Liberty and Vigilant stopped short of the front of the Advent ships and before the Advent Commanders could issue another order the three Kols unleashed hell on the ships.

Railguns blazing while the beam cannons and autocannons continued to fire into the cluster of Advent ships that still lie behind the two lead Capitals. Within a few short minutes the Halcyons shields could no longer withstand the abuse and flickered out of existance. The next volley from the three Kols ripped deep into the Halcyons hull. Punching holes several meters deep along the sides of the Halcyons. The oxygen quickly vented from the hull.

Another volley dug deeper into the Halcyons and they began to bleed pieces of the ship. Fires began to spring up deep in the damaged ships as systems began to shutdown and overload. The Halcyon to the left of the Firestorm suddenly rocked from an explosion deep within the ship. The portside lurched and the nose turned upwards and to port as it began to lose control. Another Volley ate into the top of the ship cutting an uneven line from port to starboard. From the opposite side of the ship the Assassins volleys dug deep into the Halcyons belly. More explosions shook the now crippled ship. Without another volley of railgun fire, the explosions from within the ship ripped their way out of the hull and into space. The ship to the right of the Firestorm began to erupt from within as well.

Realizing the two Advent Capitals were about to blow all 5 ships engaged impulse and pulled away from the soon to be debris and wreckage. A couple minutes later both Halcyons turned into a bright ball of fire and light as large chunks of the ship twisted and turned away from the mangled pieces of metal and plastic that shot in all directions.

The five Capitals then banked towards the cluster and pushed deep inside it to bring as many weapons to bare while the Dunovs kept their shields up. Out on the flanks of the Fleet and Crusade Group Javelis and Illuminators began to exchange fire while Cobalts, Kodiaks, Disciples and Crusaders slammed their weapons against each other in a bid to out flank each other. But the sheer numbers quickly overcame the Disciples and Crusaders. Another minute or so went by before the Cobalts and Kodiaks could reach the Illuminators and rip them to shreds.

The Advents flanks were coming undone. The small Crusade Groups line began to buckle as the massive 375th began to incircle it. Effectively cutting off any attempt to escape. The remaining enemy ships were meticulously cutdown. It was no shock to COM Koerner when none of the ships made a run for it. All of them fought to the very last exchange of volleys. The Advent were no cowards. Even in the face of immenant death. They still fought as if they could turn the tides of the battle.

As the fleet regrouped the fighters and bombers maneuvered through the debris back to their ships for repairs and to be loaded back up with ordinance. The 375th was all too sure another Crusade Group or even the dedicated Fleet was lying in wait on the opposite side of Mako. Just waiting for the 375th to let their guard down. But COM Koerner and his Staff werent about to give the Advent that opportunity to cut them to pieces. The fleet stood its ground for a good hour waiting for a response but when none came. COM Koerner sent two Arcovas in different directions around Mako to see if they could spot another fleet lying in wait. When word came in that there was nothing in sight. COM Koerner ordered the fleet to break into three groups. Each moving to the three incomplete StarBases and destroying them.

Some 3 hours later the 577th and 467th came on station at Mako. The two Fleets immediately made their way to the phase lanes that lead to the planets they were ordered to retake. The Mako gravity well was now peppered with TEC ships, debris and wreckage.

Once the three fleets were synced and in position. The 577th jumped to phase space destined for Thatos IV while the 467th and 375th remained behind. Three hours later 467th left for Parnos.

The 375th once again alone at Mako regrouped into a standard tight formation. The dozens of fighter and bomber squadrons slowly docked as the fleet began its final preperations to jump onto Velra.

"All light carriers and Capitals reporting fighter and bomber squadrons are docked Captain." Stated Lt. Emerson.
"Understood, Inform the Fleet to initiate Phase Drives." Ordered COM Koerner.
"Aye Sir." Answered Lt. Emerson turning back to her console to give a Fleetwide communique.

A minute later the entire 375th disappeared into hundreds of flashes of lights.