Post by Khaosraptor on Sept 24, 2021 20:31:51 GMT
Aurix let herself fall into the cushioned chair; the stoic, ferocious demeanour she put on falling away for a brief moment of relaxation. The windowless room was dimly lit, and her armour and weapons were stacked neatly on a table nearby. Kadin finished removing the cloak from his body and took a seat in the chair directly opposite of his King. He said nothing, allowing Aurix to breath for a moment as well as appreciate the silence the room allowed.
After a moment, she ran one of her hands over her snout, feeling the bony growths that decorated her head. "I have decided to not punish Kalyx for his failure. Such a foe has not been seen in quite some time, and there was no way he could've known."
Kadin sat in silence, allowing Aurix to speak her mind. His hands clasped in front of him as he listened, and he flexed them anxiously as he waited for her to speak again. After a few moments, she continued. "We cannot allow this affront to our nation stand. These are our sovereign borders, we cannot allow trespassers to make such fools of us again."
"What do you suggest, Vo'ra? We cannot commit to a retaliation force without knowledge of their nation, nor can we risk a larger force on our doorstep should they return."
Aurix sat up in her chair, catching her partner's gaze for a second before Kadin looked away. "We need to find a way to learn about these magics. We cannot keep fighting these battles with foes who bring more than we can bear."
Kadin's ears perked for a second, before he made eye-contact with Aurix again. "I have heard whispers on the macrys of Taox and his Delirium project. Perhaps they are the key to leveling the playing field?"
Aurix smiled, her fangs glistening in the dim light of the room. "Let Taox build his monsters, I am talking about harnessing magic for our own use, or at the very least, finding a way to suppress it so it cannot be used against us again."
Kadin thought for a moment, before retrieving a small holo disk from a compartment on his hip.
"Come to think of it, a name does spring to mind."
He flicked the disk, and a holo-image of a portion of the galaxy appeared, before enhancing on a portion of stars in the Zakar Frontier.
"Our scouts tried to locate the Isoterran ships that fled, and happened upon them instead. If I understand, they are notably peaceful and incredibly powerful in their arcane abilities. Perhaps if we sent a squad or two there to inquire about their magic, we might be able to learn something useful, and gain an ally in the process."
Aurix thought to herself for a moment, before sitting back in her chair.
"I will authorize the mission, though I would like to know who you intend on sending to these... 'Venetari'?"
Kadin slipped the disk back into its pouch before standing to leave.
"Oh I think you'll find my selection to be quite agreeable."
-----------------------------------////-------------------------
The two Wrath knights knelt in the meditation chamber aboard the 'Protean Valiant', alone save for each other as the ship ferried them towards their destination. The calm, chilled air of the room smelt of relaxing incense that coiled into the air, giving the immediate vicinity an air of mystery.
Lasiran Valkanis, the eldest of the two, steadied his mind as the memories of hallways of the dead swarmed within him. He had been one of the lucky few who had survived aboard Kalyx's initial defensive force, having been assigned a position within the central portions of the great battleship outside of the Isoterrans deadly reach. He could still see them, dead where they fell at their stations, slumped against walls piled at the end of the command decks. He had already swore oaths of revenge for his fallen comrades, though he had not made that known to his King before his selection.
Xarrial O'tarin, a relative newcomer to the higher ranks of the House of Wrath, knelt with his sword held in his hands before him. The weight of it soothed his nerves, though the sounds of the screams still echoed in his mind. He had been a part of a division assigned to guard the Wrath King as she rose to the challenge of the Isoterrans. In the moment it seemed a great honour to be chosen, but after the first of his warriors fell to the unnatural red light, he had been having second thoughts. It was true, their presence on the battlefield had won them the day, but at the cost of so many, had it been worth it?
Lasiran's head cocked turned suddenly, his braided hair flopping to one side as he spoke.
"You're nervous too then?"
Xarrial froze, unsure if he had been showing signs of trepidation, or if he was being lured into revealing his thoughts.
Lasiran didn't wait for a reply, allowing his eyes to open slowly as he started to get up.
"I am. Kings will it, I would rather be anywhere else in the galaxy but here. But we have been chosen, both for our skill, as well as our pain. We will not let our Kings down."
He held out a hand for Xarrial to take, and the two Echos stood in the murky darkness of the room for a second, relishing the last bit of calm before a small nodal click drew their attention.
-/-Vahn'ra, we are nearing our exit junction. It would be wise to ready yourselves.-/-
Xarrial looked at the sword still grasped in his hands, before Lasiran gave him a slap on the back.
"Comon, we shouldn't keep our new friends waiting."
--------------------------------------////--------------------------------////--------------
On the average star chart, the Tessarion planetary system appeared, at first glance, largely unremarkable. Average sized, orbiting an average distance from an average yellow sun, the planet was but one speck among the seemingly endless array of worlds embraced by the Ancerious galaxy…
...yet once the Echotians arrived, all preconceptions of normalcy vanished.
Even from the edge of the system, they could feel the change in the very fabric of space around them as they reentered real space; an energy, a static, a warmth that flowed around and through them. Unlike the brooding presences of the Krovaedians, likened in reports to the ominous thundering of distant jungle storms and the gaze of a predator, this sensation was...light...almost playful. Even as wary of magic as they were, the Echotian visitors could feel the ebb and flow of invisible energy playing on their every nerve, passing across every fiber of their being, like a hand passed over a live wire.
The source, the epicenter, was the planet before them. If the natural beauty of it had not been enough -- with verdant continents that gave way to picturesque azure seas -- then the marvels of engineering on display certainly would give pause. Each of the worlds three moons were gilded, surrounded by artificial rings of silver and gold that gave the appearance of bright halos and intricate filigree that traced intricate sigils across their surfaces, and around them orbited several smaller spheres of gold or silver, possibly space stations or communication arrays of some sort. The planet itself sported similar finery, with a massive artificial ring of glimmering white metal inscribed with gold encircling its equator, with delicate spindles of gold that stretched out into space and back towards the planet at recurring intervals.
.
It was around this massive central ring that most of the activity seemed to gather, perhaps denoting the presence of shipyards and docking stations within the colossal structure, and the ships present were unlike anything the Echos present had encountered before. Most were constructed of the same, metallic white material as the ring, making them seem almost carved from marble inlaid with gold, and rather than the practical, industrial shapes of other vessels found in Ancerious, the vessels of these ‘Venetari’ seemed far more abstract, with flowing, elegant designs and pieces that seemed to float untethered from the rest of the body, yet moved seamlessly along with it. Each of these vessels, however, -- whether the tiny, arrow-like corvettes that streaked like lightning across the void, or the monolithic gilded battleships that drifted slowly from their docks -- were born aloft by luminous ‘wings’ of prismatic energy, which only served to further add to the appearance of celestial, possibly even divine origin.
For several minutes, the Echos would receive no response to their broadcasts, and though a cruiser passed right by them on its way out of the gravity well, there was no attempt to apprehend them, though the cruiser’s strike-craft escort seemed to hover around them momentarily in what seemed like playful curiosity, before they, too, left to rejoin their mothership. Finally, after some time, the Echos were hailed and greeted by a warm female voice.
“Greetings, visitors -- on behalf of Prince Aurelion and Chancellor Akesha, I welcome you to Tessarion. Instructions for docking and planetary customs checks are being sent to your navigational computer now. If this is a diplomatic visit, please make your way to the Universal Embassy at the marked location, where we will be happy to assist you further. For your own safety, please keep all weapons systems deactivated, and refrain from docking in unauthorized zones. We hope you enjoy your stay!”
-////---‐-----//------------------
The energy of the system was almost electrifying for the Echotian forces within the light cruiser, with its effects causing laughter and song to ring-out throughout the vessel..
The two knights that stood within the central chamber of the ship, surrounded by the light aircraft that was usually stored there, felt mysteriously energetic. Xarrial's meditative mental exercises quickly turned to song lyrics as he sung to himself, while Lasiran hummed along in a surprising turn for both their moods.
Their ship corrected course for their new destination, alerting the on-board knights that they had been hailed by the denizens of the system.
Xarrial turned to his still humming companion as they began preparing themselves for presentation.
"What do you think we're going to glean from these 'Venetari'? It's not like they're going to bestow upon us a Dren to square us off."
"We would be so lucky."
Lasiran piped back in retort.
They both laughed; an odd feeling had crept over them both: confidence.
They both hoped it would last.
---///-----////--------//---------
The location in question -- this so-called Universal Embassy -- appeared to be a large space station of oddly ornate construction, taking a form almost reminiscent of a lotus flower with multiple delicate, metallic 'petals' carved with runes and filigree.
As the Echotian ship approached, they could see vessels from several other races visiting and departing in the honeycomb of docks at the "flower's" base, including the forest green ships of the Bo'Shyen Guardian Republic. A small escort of drones had been deployed to lead them into one of the hexagonal bays, and another voice hailed them as they drew near.
"Greetings honored guests," spoke the smooth, computerized voice. "In order to make your visit as safe and comfortable as possible, all visitors will be provided a shielding amulet at the terminal, to be returned at the conclusion of their stay. Failure to wear this may result in detrimental effects on the health of non-magically inclined races. If you have any concerns, please speak with a member of the Diplomatic Onboarding Team, who will be happy to assist you."
The two knights positioned themselves at the head of the embankment ramp, awaited the final docking procedures and the 'go ahead' from navigation, before the ramp began to lower. With one final breath to slow their heart rates, and a telltale look from Lasiran, both Echos began their descent onto the landing area.
Helms immediately locked into place around each of the Echotians faces, providing them with adequate oxygen and protection in this foreign environment. Their angular armoured plates, as well as axe-like helms gave them a well-earned aura of violence, contrasted with matching red surcoats that hung to their knees, declaring them as honour bound and noble.
They carried their weapons, though slung in holsters or sheathed at their sides, and descended into their host's domain.
As the Echos exited their ship -- guided by small flickering orbs of light on the ground -- they drew quite a bit of attention from the other visitors to the station, who regarded their imposing regalia with interest and curiosity, and their weapons with suspicion. Voices whispered around them -- some excited, some apprehensive -- and where they walked, the crowds seemed to part.
Everywhere they looked, they caught glimpses of their hosts -- not too dissimilar from the variants of humanity that inhabited the galaxy, but with notable differences. Common to all were inhuman ears and long, slender tails, but the variance among these traits strained biological credulity.
Some had ears that tapered to long points; others were more animalistic, and covered with fine fur or tufts of feathers. Of those who bore horns, some were straight and narrow, while others bore sets of branching antlers adorned with moss and flowers, and others still had elegant crests that circled their brow like a wreath. Their skin was often adorned with markings and patterns, sometimes in metallic hues that glinted or glowed in the light, but where tattoos and body modification ended and natural patterning began was anyone’s guess, for many seemed to bear both. Indeed, each individual appeared demonic, bestial, and celestial all at once, with the balance of these traits shifting depending on which person you observed.
It was, however, their presence that unified them. Eyes of a thousand different gemstone and metallic hues followed the Echos as they stepped from their ramp, but each seemed much older and deeper than the ageless faces they belonged to. Moreover, the Echos could feel that same strange static in the air that they had in orbit, the radiation of energy and magic barely contained within a physical shell.
When they reached their destination, the Echos were greeted by a woman in a white gown, who handed each of them a small golden amulet adorned with carved symbols.
"Welcome, esteemed visitors, to the Tessarion Universal Embassy. Chancellor Akesha is waiting for you in the conference chambers. If you would please follow me…"
They marveled at the unique unification of the scene before them, cautiously wary of the looks they received, but committed to keeping the composure about them. Lasiran nodded curtly to those who made eye-contact with him, keeping the mood from aboard the vessel with him. Xarrial attempted to keep his gaze focused ahead, but relented after a gentle prod from his associate.
Both Echos accepted the pendents, Lasiran placing his over his head to slip around his neck, while Xarrial simply wrapped the chain around the hilt of the blade he carried.
The woman in white led the Echotian representatives deeper into the station, passing yet more marvels of magical engineering intended to delight and impress visiting dignitaries. As they walked, the hallways widened into an impressive open-air space filled with water features and parkland, complete with a simulated breeze and even a few bird-like creatures flying overhead. An artificial sun cast warm light across the fields or carefully cultured grass, and it was difficult to tell where architecture ended and the landscape began, making the entire space feel more like a resort than a governmental facility.
"The Chancellor will meet with you in the main conference hall," the woman in white continued, as she led the Echotians past small gaggles of dignitaries and impressive sculptures of floating metal and water. "Afterwards, you are welcome to explore the embassy grounds for as long as you like."
[8:48 AM]
.
Ultimately, the group arrived at a structure at the center of the park -- a sort of complex, segmented pyramid resting upon a stepped dais, made of what appeared to be pale marble and sandstone embellished with gold. Small gardens and fountains surrounded the pyramid, and each side bore a prominent central staircase that led to the upper balconies. Their guide led the Echotians up one such staircase and to the central door, which opened into a guarded atrium. With a bow, the attendants opened the final set of double doors, and the Echos were beckoned in.
The room they found themselves in was somewhat dark, at least in comparison to the "sunlit" expanse outside, and was lit instead by sconces containing roughly hewn chunks of amber that glowed from within. The central space was dominated by a long table surrounded by high-backed chairs, and the ceiling above was obscured by an illusion depicting shifting nebulae and a thousand glittering stars.
At the head of this table, reclined in a relatively simple throne of marble and gold, sat the Echos' host -- a tall woman, with dark skin, long, gold-adorned braids that gathered around her shoulders, and simple metallic markings upon her skin. For someone known as the Chancellor, her garb was far less ostentatious than her title would suggest -- a simple, sleeveless off-white dress trimmed in gold, and a few golden bangles around her wrists -- with the most striking aspect of her finery being the halo-like circlet that hovered around her temple, which seemed to be spun from pure sunlight. When the Echos entered, she folded her hands and offered them a dainty smile...whilst the horned, leonine beast curled at her feet regarded them with suspicion.
"Honored guests, allow me to welcome you to our home," the woman greeted them with a voice like velvet. "I am Chancellor Akesha. Please, sit -- my companion does not bite...though I have been known to from time to time."
The Wrath knights saluted, armoured fists clamping against their cuirasses in unison, as the chancellor finished speaking. Lasiran was first to respond, taking a seat without hesitation. Xarrial, only a moment behind, caught himself in awe at the sun-forged circlet. He had never seen such works of either technology or magics that had cause to admire, though he found himself briefly captivated by such. He played it off with a shake of his head, taking a seat at the table as well.
"The honour is ours, Chancellor."
Xarrial's words were professional; years of training and a respect for authority had drilled into him the almost automatic response. He hoped he would not come off as unpleasant, though he knew he could rely on Lasiran to counterbalance his more clipped responses.
Right on queue, Lasiran spoke.
"Indeed. The U.E.E. thank you for your time, as well as in advance for any aid you may be able to provide us. My name is Lasiran, and this is Xarrial of House Wrath. We are honoured to be welcomed here at the Embassy."
Lasiran looked to Xarrial; a comforting nod accompanying the gesture put the echo at ease knowing his companion was not entirely out of his element.
Akesha nodded at the responses, grinning softly. Though one of the Echos spoke like a diplomat, the other spoke like a soldier, which suggested to her a practical, plain-spoken people.
Good. She preferred it this way.
"We are happy to host you here. I would offer you something to eat, but I am uncertain whether our food would agree with your biology -- perhaps another time. I take it your interests lay not with our cuisine, in any event."
The two echotian knights looked at one another, before Xarrial revealed a small holo-device from beneath his robes, reaching out to center the device on the table before him. As his hands left it, a blue image flared into life of the battle above Valthris, displaying both the Isoterran and Echotian forces locked in combat. Primarily highlighted in a red, eerie light was the beam-like weapons employed by the Isoterrans.
"During our engagement, the Isoterrans implemented unnatural weapons; ones that could bypass our defenses, and wreak havoc on the crew within. We could not counter them, and were forced to achieve victory through sheer brute strength..."
Xarrial's voice trailed off for a moment as the screams entered his mind again, and the Echotian relented to focus his attention on maintaining his heart rate while Lasiran continued in his stead.
"We understand them to be of an arcane nature, one that the Venetari share a keen proficiency for if your reputation does not do any injustices. I suppose what we are seeking is knowledge. Where does such a bountiful resource originate, and how could it be harnessed into a weapon such as this?"
Akesha's expression remained neutral, and her golden eyes watched the hologram intently. Indeed, the Venetari had become aware of this event -- it had been well publicized since it occurred, and the idea of a rogue, aggressive nation wielding magical weaponry had caused concern among her generals.
"I can only speculate on the nature of this weapon, without having seen the damage myself. If we would be permitted to examine the ships in question, perhaps we can make a more exact determination."
She paused, then reclined in the chair, steepling her fingers. "To your question, the nature of magic is...troublesome to explain, namely due to how malleable of a force it is. It is powered by a form of energy called mana, which does not conform to traditional physical laws as you may know them, and which differs depending on where you are from. Where we come from, mana suffused everything -- the air, the grass, the water. Here, in this realm, magic pours forth from great leylines, like rivers of energy, breaking into lakes and tributaries scattered throughout space. Drawing upon these sources of power, or constructing your own, allows for the casting of magic through sufficient discipline and will."
Lasiran looked to Xarrial, accessing his macrys link with the fellow knight as he spoke in their native tongue.
"Agreeable, Xa'tor? Another's eyes could aid us, and it would considerably ease the tension of the Kings?"
Xarrial chirped back, the clipped language sounding more mechanical than natural.
"I see no reason to deny them, Kings will it."
Both knights turned back to Akesha, their conversation lasting no more than a couple seconds, before Lasiran spoke plainly again/
"Arrangements can be made to allow for the inspection of the vessels in question, though there will have to be some notion of security on hand. If you are able to assign such a representative, we will make preparations for their arrival."
"What would you ask in exchange for such a service?", Xarrial added, curious as to the motives of their newfound acquaintance.
"Consider this a simple kindness," Akesha replied. "As it happens, I am curious and concerned about the Isoterrans as well. All I would ask in return is that you give consideration to opening diplomatic relations between our people. "
The two Echotians exchanged nods of approval, though there was a mutual understanding that accepting this would open them up to a debt. Perhaps these Venetari were simply benevolent, but to judge them at face value alone would be foolish. They would be allowed to prove themselves.
Lasiran returned his gaze to Akesha, a low clicking ‘purr’ accompanying his words.
"Very well. We will inform our Kings of your generous offer, and ensure that preparations are made for the inspection of the ships in question. We are grateful for the time you have given us, Akesha'vo'ra. It has been an honour."
"The honor has been mine," Akesha replied, touching her chest. "Your people are welcome to pay us a visit at any point -- we welcome new friends in this strange realm. For now, I will arrange for a forensic team to be prepared for your summons."
---------////-----------///-------------------------------
The Wrath fleet above the Estanixian star-port bustled with activity as preparations were made for the arrival of both the Venetari and Echotian forces. The Chancellor's deal had been rapidly relayed to the Kings of House Wrath, who insisted upon attending the inspection, despite the warnings from House Valour that it would come off as mistrusting or threatening. What remained of the Wrath King's ship, and the fleet she had commanded, was docked at this station. If more aliens were coming into the Empire, Aurix wanted to be there.
----------///------------------------------------
The two Wrath Kings stood shoulder to shoulder in the viewing platform above the main hanger; a colossal slot in the crescent-like station that currently housed Aurix's vessel. The sheer size of the ship was something to behold, though by now the Echotians were long accustomed to being in awe of such technology. They were the commanders of millions, able to rend the stars red with blood if their will required it to be, they did not balk in the presence of their power.
A doorway slid open behind them with a mechanical hiss, allowing Kalyx to enter with a pause, giving a well practiced salute to his Kings. He held it, longer than he anticipated he would have to, before Aurix turned her gaze towards him.
"You bring news?"
Aurix's imperative tone sent a shiver down Kalyx's spine as he spoke, his words were again, very well practiced.
"Venetari ships have been detected entering proximity range. They will be with us momentarily. Shall we depart, my Kings?"
Kadin turned, his own voice no less comforting.
"Indeed, let us greet our generous allies.
The arrival of the Venetari was accompanied by the sort of ostentatious display one might expect. Bright lights, like magnesium flares, sparked into existence and began tracing out concentric rings of sigils in the void of space. Each ring spun before stopping abruptly, seemingly locking into place, before collapsing into what appeared to be a wormhole in the center.
It was from this portal that the Echos' visitors appeared, arriving in shimmering, silver-white vessels trimmed with gold, and born aloft on ribbons of prismatic light. The force was small -- composed largely of escorts and picket ships should the meeting turn sour -- with the most notable inclusion being the large, resplendent carrier that was the last to arrive.
It was from this carrier that the shuttle containing the Venetari specialists departed and made way for the station, docking in short order, appearing almost dainty when surrounded by the imposing and utilitarian Echotian architecture. Upon landing, the shuttle's apparently seamless hull split and shifted, opening into a set of floating platforms that served as a ramp for the disembarking visitors, each of them distinct from the last.
Avryn Vol Saris, a specialist in divination and metamagical studies, and accredited professor of arcanistry, stood in the center -- a tall, pale woman with arched brows, sharp features, chin-length black hair that was tinged with blue, and what appeared to be crystalline spectacle lenses floating just below her silvery eyes. She wore a sharp, professional gown of midnight blue trimmed in silver, and carried a data tablet tucked in the crook of her elbow.
Beside her, clad in a glittering copper dress adorned with a crimson sash, was Cyndra Del Tora, an expert in evocation, magical armaments, and all that was explosive and sparkly. Her wild red hair billowed around her head and trailed into twisting flames, and in stark contrast to her stoic companion, the bronze-skinned woman instead took in every sight the Echotian station had to offer, grinning.
Finally, clad in a forest green tunic adorned with what appeared to be living tree branches, stood Daitos Fel Shan, a master biomancer and expert in bio-etherics. He had previously been studying with the Bo'Shyen, having become enamored with their culture and fascinated by the magic of their Druids, but when it was suggested that the Isoterrans had used a weapon that targeted the soul, Akesha had recalled him to serve as a consultant. He was the tallest of those assembled, with a set of branching antlers emerging from his long black hair, and almond-shaped eyes the color of amber.
Avryn regarded the Echotian structure with a flat expression, analyzing it all with a slight tilt of her head. She held out the data tablet, which remained suspended in mid air in front of her, and typed a few notes on the holographic screen, awaiting their hosts.
Two rows of Echotian soldiers were arranged before the Venetari. At a quick glance, there were probably well over a hundred in total, creating a path outwards from the shuttle like some massive alien chess set. There was a buzz in the air, as the excitement at the guests arrival sent waves of fervent curiosity through the space. Suddenly the mood seemed to shift, as if some unheard signal rippled through the room, snuffing its playful aura.
A door at the far end of the room slid open with a growl, revealing the source of the harsh atmosphere.
The rows of Echotians took a step back before kneeling as the first of the Wrath Kings exited the lift.
Aurix Janthik set the march; her footfalls echoing throughout the chamber as her retinue fell in behind her. She was magnificent to behold, though she carried an aura of death with her stride. Her armour, onyx black and framed in a scarlet cloak, gave her the impression of a bloodied dagger carved from a single obsidian shard. Every motion spoke of untold strength, and every step announced her power to those assembled. Her helm did not betray this power, as it displayed a crown of blacked, thorny spikes like a maleficent, ebony crown. She was the embodiment of House Wrath, the teeth within the maw.
Kadin Drakks fell into step behind his superior, though he did not carry any less weight to his stride. His armour had a more classical look and feel compared to Aurix's sleek form, though it did not seem to weigh him down. Jet armour to match his superior was cut down the center by the cloak that fell over his right pauldron, flowing around the gauntlet that rested upon the pommel of his blade. His axe-like helm carried with it a crown of thorns, though they glistened with a reddish hue and seemed to glow from the base.
Kalyx and Ebrix brought up the second wave of Echotians, followed closely by Lasiran and Xarrial, each adorned in a much simpler armour style than their superiors, though no less functional. These were the representatives of the Echotian Empire, and they would not be found lacking in the face of their hired help.
As they neared the Venatari representatives, Aurix stopped her advance, which was immediately mirrored by her subordinates.
There was a brief moment of judgment as the Wrath Kings sized up their guests, noting their garb, their equipment, and their general anatomy, before the tension was broken.
"Honoured guests."
Aurix's words echoed throughout the chamber, giving her an even larger presence.
"Your willingness to answer our calls speaks volumes of your character. May the coming days benefit us both."
As their hosts approached, the three Venetari representatives took a bow. Of the three, Cyndra seemed the most in awe, her eyes wide with wonder and a certain appreciation for the dramatic flair on display. The somewhat shy and reserved Daitos kept his eyes to the ground, his deer-like ears twitching nervously at each clack of Echotian talons on the metallic floor.
Only Avryn seemed unmoved by the intimidating display, regarding the Echos like one would examine an organism beneath a microscope, though this was perhaps less due to courage and nonchalance, and more her being too busy analyzing the Echos to really register their gravitas.
Bipedal, six limbs; leg structure suggests formidable speed and agility. Likely carnivorous diet; pursuit or ambush predator evolution. Armor serves dual purpose of protection and intimidation. Kneeling indicates deference to leadership class. Recommend appointment of Ragnosi officials to manage relations due to shared warrior heritage…
As the thoughts crossed her mind, lines of flowing Venetari script scrawled across the surface of the data pad, chronicling her observations for further reflection. She nodded towards Aurix, the floating silver crescent circling her brow following the motion, and gestured toward the other representatives.
"Chancellor Akesha sends her regards. I hope that my companions and I may be of some use to you," Avryn replied, her voice as sharp and precise as a razor blade. "Shall we begin?"
"We shall."
The Wrath Kings voice seemed to soften ever so slightly, though not enough to be overt.
"I am Aurix, High King of House Wrath. This is Kadin, my upper right hand. I trust you have been informed of our predicament, though I am sure the reports do not quite encapsulate the true extent of our plight..."
She continued, guiding the party aboard the immense vessel in the dockyard. The Warship was similar to Aurix herself, and imposed a similar feeling of trepidation as well as awe. As the group continued, Kadin recalled the words of Xarrial, describing the scene aboard in the lower decks. The countless bodies of their kin, lying still where they had collapsed, their armour and training made into a mockery by foul magics.
Aurix growled at the mention of the magic weaponry, her rage at the loss of so many of her soldiers caused her to clench her fists.
"Perhaps with your help we can get to the bottom of what this weapon's capabilities are. Only then can we formulate a counter-offence."
The Echotian King turned to their guests as they stopped, now standing within the forward blade of the warship.
"The bodies have been relocated for processing, but the rest have been left untouched. If you require anything, you have only to ask."
As soon as they entered, Daitos shivered and muttered a curse, making a solemn gesture of benediction towards the spirits of the slain Echos with a haunted look in his eyes.
Cyndra, meanwhile, strode forward, trailing her fingers over one of the consoles before raising them to her face, as though inspecting for dust.
"No blast residue," she noted, turning in place to examine the bulkhead surrounding them, shielding her eyes to get a better look. "Don't see any thermal spalling or evidence of radiation burns, so it probably wasn't anything particle-based. Were the computer systems intact? Did anything short circuit?"
Daitos shook his head. "Something foul was at work here…" he remarked, his voice low and serene. "This ship...feels like a tomb…"
The biomancer struck his staff against the floor with a metallic thud, the sound of which resonated eerily on and on through the derelict vessel, seemingly forever.
"Can you not hear it? That emptiness...Life's Song has fallen silent here…"
Cyndra huffed and crossed her arms. "And for those of us who don't speak riddles?"
"Whole decks...scoured clean of life...down to the microbial level…"
Avryn walked in a rough circle around the room, holding up a hand as one would some kind of scanner. "There is a definite magical signature here, something...esoteric...Cyndra?"
Cyndra shook her head, causing her hair to ripple like dancing flames. "It wasn't Evocation -- if it were, there would be physical damage to the bulkhead and other parts of the ship, but I can't find anything."
"That was my assessment as well…" Avryn agreed. "Most curious...Perhaps some form of magically transported biological agent, or something summoned within the ship itself…"
She turned to the Echos. "We will need to examine the bodies to determine the actual cause of death, and perhaps shed some light on the mechanics of this weapon."
Aurix looked to Kadin, who turned back to Avryn.
"There are still many that require identification. If you believe that they will garner more worth than your inspection here, then we can bring you to them."
The Echos turned once more, leading the delegates through the empty halls of the ship. Their path doubled back on their original route, but diverted at a familiar junction. They had not wanted to lead their guests past the rows of bodies for obvious reasons, but since it had been requested, they had no reason to continue with such illusions.
As they walked, Aurix spoke softly, careful now to not let her authoritative tone take hold of her words. She spoke to the group as a whole, ensuring her voice was heard by all.
"I am going to ask you all to take great care when we enter the mortuary. There are many who grieve for the loss of their kin, myself included. Though I do not expect any desecration of the dead, I would ask that our conversations are kept low to allow for the process to go unimpeded."
As she finished speaking, a door ahead slid open, revealing a vast room filled with lines of echotian bodies, most covered in thin veils to shield them from view, but many more openly lying, still in their armour. The sounds of muffled cries could be heard from within, as groups of Echotians knelt beside loved ones, and others said their final farewells to brothers in arms. It was a solemn place, and Kadin put a hand on Aurix's shoulder as they entered, comforting her in this surely difficult time.
Aurix's voice was moments from breaking as she spoke softly again.
"You may do your work. If you require anything, please do not hesitate to ask."
Mindful of the grief that pervaded the area, the Venetari investigators crept through the rows of deceased, careful not to disturb the others any more than they had to. Ultimately, they came upon an Echo not currently surrounded by mourners off to one side of the room, and Avryn motioned for the others to stand beside it.
The body was partially covered by a white sheet, having its chest armour partially removed to get a better look at the neck tattoo for easier identification. It was an Echotian clade tattoo, often used to bond younger echos during military training. This one, for instance, was of clade Fo'Rek.
Aurix took a long look at the stunned visage of the Echo, crouching down next to the body to trace a hand across the warrior's braids.
"I knew this one. A fine warrior named Prasix."
Her mood swayed for a moment, venturing into a vengeful snarl before she tempered herself in an icy calm. Her attention turned to the Venetari as she stood.
"Whatever you can glean from his body will aid us in preventing such atrocities. Do what you must."
Avryn nodded, and turned her attention back to the body, making notes as she began her analysis. In theory, the cadaver should have begun decaying some time ago, yet the young Echo look almost as though he were simply sleeping, and there was no sign of physical damage to the armor or the form beneath it.
"No sign of physical injury…" She murmured, more to herself than anyone else.
She hovered her hands over the body, a faint blue light emanating from them as she began to peer into the Astral plane to examine the patterns of mana surrounding the body.
What she found caused her to frown.
"Daitos?"
"The body is intact," the biomancer replied, having been performing an examination of his own. "No physical damage. No decomposition.. No microorganisms of any kind. The body is a wound in the fabric of life around it…"
Avryn nodded, a faint silvery blue glow in her eyes. "Troubling…"
She looked back to Aurix, her expression almost one of disgust. "Your people appear to have been slain by some form of what we would call Necromancy -- an attack that targeted the soul, the animus, rather than the physical body.'
Aurix was puzzled; for a moment she did not understand exactly what Avryn was implying. The realization dawned on the Wrath King as her eyes lingered on the body, lying prone on the hard metal floor.
Her claws clenched into fists as she quelled her rage and kept herself in check.
The Echos around her similarly shared her sentiment, Kadin especially leaning in against Aurix, before turning to Avryn.
"Such blasphemous weapons of war, to snuff the lives of so many so frivolously, there will surely be consequences for its implementation."
Aurix and Kadin took another look at the corpse, taking it in one last time before turning away.
"Blasphemous is a shallow word for such things..." Daitos observed, shaking his horns like an agitated deer.
"Indeed -- the use of such weapons has been outlawed in our domain, and the magic required to conjure it is forbidden," Avryn replied, brushing a hair from her face. "This is why the weapon bypassed your shields and armor -- it was never designed to interact with the physical world in the first place, but to eject the soul from the body."
There was a moment when the two Echotian Kings gazed out at the rows of bodies, allowing themselves a chance to think about what to do next.
They should retaliate; drive the Isoterrans from their worlds and rid the galaxy of their sneering, ugly faces. Aurix imagined herself at the head of a great fleet, pulverizing anything that dared meet her in battle with streaks of Echotian lance fire. She looked to Kadin and, despite their helms, he could feel the look of conquest in her eyes. It didn't take a psychic to know that Aurix wanted to avenge her kin more than anyone else. Kadin's demeanor however, one of restraint, pulled Aurix back from her declarations of war.
A stray glance at Prasix brought understanding to the Wrath King, knowing in her heart that no matter how many they killed, it would not bring the dead back. Another war for the U.E.E. would only stand to put more of her soldiers at risk, something she could not in good conscience condone. They would be given their death rites, and honoured as warriors. No shame would be cast to their names, for they died defending their Empire. They should all be so lucky as to meet the same fate one day.
Aurix's voice was firm now, the pain in her throat washed away by a wave of responsibility. Now was her time to lead, to act, and there was no room for her own convictions. She was a King of the U.E.E., and there were many ways to drive a blade.
"My honoured guests, I thank you for this insight. Perhaps you could answer a query of mine, as my last request of you before we conclude this investigation?"
The Wrath Kings turned to face their new Venetari acquaintances, a new fire lit in their hearts.
"What do the Venetari do with practitioners of necromancy?"
After a moment, she ran one of her hands over her snout, feeling the bony growths that decorated her head. "I have decided to not punish Kalyx for his failure. Such a foe has not been seen in quite some time, and there was no way he could've known."
Kadin sat in silence, allowing Aurix to speak her mind. His hands clasped in front of him as he listened, and he flexed them anxiously as he waited for her to speak again. After a few moments, she continued. "We cannot allow this affront to our nation stand. These are our sovereign borders, we cannot allow trespassers to make such fools of us again."
"What do you suggest, Vo'ra? We cannot commit to a retaliation force without knowledge of their nation, nor can we risk a larger force on our doorstep should they return."
Aurix sat up in her chair, catching her partner's gaze for a second before Kadin looked away. "We need to find a way to learn about these magics. We cannot keep fighting these battles with foes who bring more than we can bear."
Kadin's ears perked for a second, before he made eye-contact with Aurix again. "I have heard whispers on the macrys of Taox and his Delirium project. Perhaps they are the key to leveling the playing field?"
Aurix smiled, her fangs glistening in the dim light of the room. "Let Taox build his monsters, I am talking about harnessing magic for our own use, or at the very least, finding a way to suppress it so it cannot be used against us again."
Kadin thought for a moment, before retrieving a small holo disk from a compartment on his hip.
"Come to think of it, a name does spring to mind."
He flicked the disk, and a holo-image of a portion of the galaxy appeared, before enhancing on a portion of stars in the Zakar Frontier.
"Our scouts tried to locate the Isoterran ships that fled, and happened upon them instead. If I understand, they are notably peaceful and incredibly powerful in their arcane abilities. Perhaps if we sent a squad or two there to inquire about their magic, we might be able to learn something useful, and gain an ally in the process."
Aurix thought to herself for a moment, before sitting back in her chair.
"I will authorize the mission, though I would like to know who you intend on sending to these... 'Venetari'?"
Kadin slipped the disk back into its pouch before standing to leave.
"Oh I think you'll find my selection to be quite agreeable."
-----------------------------------////-------------------------
The two Wrath knights knelt in the meditation chamber aboard the 'Protean Valiant', alone save for each other as the ship ferried them towards their destination. The calm, chilled air of the room smelt of relaxing incense that coiled into the air, giving the immediate vicinity an air of mystery.
Lasiran Valkanis, the eldest of the two, steadied his mind as the memories of hallways of the dead swarmed within him. He had been one of the lucky few who had survived aboard Kalyx's initial defensive force, having been assigned a position within the central portions of the great battleship outside of the Isoterrans deadly reach. He could still see them, dead where they fell at their stations, slumped against walls piled at the end of the command decks. He had already swore oaths of revenge for his fallen comrades, though he had not made that known to his King before his selection.
Xarrial O'tarin, a relative newcomer to the higher ranks of the House of Wrath, knelt with his sword held in his hands before him. The weight of it soothed his nerves, though the sounds of the screams still echoed in his mind. He had been a part of a division assigned to guard the Wrath King as she rose to the challenge of the Isoterrans. In the moment it seemed a great honour to be chosen, but after the first of his warriors fell to the unnatural red light, he had been having second thoughts. It was true, their presence on the battlefield had won them the day, but at the cost of so many, had it been worth it?
Lasiran's head cocked turned suddenly, his braided hair flopping to one side as he spoke.
"You're nervous too then?"
Xarrial froze, unsure if he had been showing signs of trepidation, or if he was being lured into revealing his thoughts.
Lasiran didn't wait for a reply, allowing his eyes to open slowly as he started to get up.
"I am. Kings will it, I would rather be anywhere else in the galaxy but here. But we have been chosen, both for our skill, as well as our pain. We will not let our Kings down."
He held out a hand for Xarrial to take, and the two Echos stood in the murky darkness of the room for a second, relishing the last bit of calm before a small nodal click drew their attention.
-/-Vahn'ra, we are nearing our exit junction. It would be wise to ready yourselves.-/-
Xarrial looked at the sword still grasped in his hands, before Lasiran gave him a slap on the back.
"Comon, we shouldn't keep our new friends waiting."
--------------------------------------////--------------------------------////--------------
On the average star chart, the Tessarion planetary system appeared, at first glance, largely unremarkable. Average sized, orbiting an average distance from an average yellow sun, the planet was but one speck among the seemingly endless array of worlds embraced by the Ancerious galaxy…
...yet once the Echotians arrived, all preconceptions of normalcy vanished.
Even from the edge of the system, they could feel the change in the very fabric of space around them as they reentered real space; an energy, a static, a warmth that flowed around and through them. Unlike the brooding presences of the Krovaedians, likened in reports to the ominous thundering of distant jungle storms and the gaze of a predator, this sensation was...light...almost playful. Even as wary of magic as they were, the Echotian visitors could feel the ebb and flow of invisible energy playing on their every nerve, passing across every fiber of their being, like a hand passed over a live wire.
The source, the epicenter, was the planet before them. If the natural beauty of it had not been enough -- with verdant continents that gave way to picturesque azure seas -- then the marvels of engineering on display certainly would give pause. Each of the worlds three moons were gilded, surrounded by artificial rings of silver and gold that gave the appearance of bright halos and intricate filigree that traced intricate sigils across their surfaces, and around them orbited several smaller spheres of gold or silver, possibly space stations or communication arrays of some sort. The planet itself sported similar finery, with a massive artificial ring of glimmering white metal inscribed with gold encircling its equator, with delicate spindles of gold that stretched out into space and back towards the planet at recurring intervals.
.
It was around this massive central ring that most of the activity seemed to gather, perhaps denoting the presence of shipyards and docking stations within the colossal structure, and the ships present were unlike anything the Echos present had encountered before. Most were constructed of the same, metallic white material as the ring, making them seem almost carved from marble inlaid with gold, and rather than the practical, industrial shapes of other vessels found in Ancerious, the vessels of these ‘Venetari’ seemed far more abstract, with flowing, elegant designs and pieces that seemed to float untethered from the rest of the body, yet moved seamlessly along with it. Each of these vessels, however, -- whether the tiny, arrow-like corvettes that streaked like lightning across the void, or the monolithic gilded battleships that drifted slowly from their docks -- were born aloft by luminous ‘wings’ of prismatic energy, which only served to further add to the appearance of celestial, possibly even divine origin.
For several minutes, the Echos would receive no response to their broadcasts, and though a cruiser passed right by them on its way out of the gravity well, there was no attempt to apprehend them, though the cruiser’s strike-craft escort seemed to hover around them momentarily in what seemed like playful curiosity, before they, too, left to rejoin their mothership. Finally, after some time, the Echos were hailed and greeted by a warm female voice.
“Greetings, visitors -- on behalf of Prince Aurelion and Chancellor Akesha, I welcome you to Tessarion. Instructions for docking and planetary customs checks are being sent to your navigational computer now. If this is a diplomatic visit, please make your way to the Universal Embassy at the marked location, where we will be happy to assist you further. For your own safety, please keep all weapons systems deactivated, and refrain from docking in unauthorized zones. We hope you enjoy your stay!”
-////---‐-----//------------------
The energy of the system was almost electrifying for the Echotian forces within the light cruiser, with its effects causing laughter and song to ring-out throughout the vessel..
The two knights that stood within the central chamber of the ship, surrounded by the light aircraft that was usually stored there, felt mysteriously energetic. Xarrial's meditative mental exercises quickly turned to song lyrics as he sung to himself, while Lasiran hummed along in a surprising turn for both their moods.
Their ship corrected course for their new destination, alerting the on-board knights that they had been hailed by the denizens of the system.
Xarrial turned to his still humming companion as they began preparing themselves for presentation.
"What do you think we're going to glean from these 'Venetari'? It's not like they're going to bestow upon us a Dren to square us off."
"We would be so lucky."
Lasiran piped back in retort.
They both laughed; an odd feeling had crept over them both: confidence.
They both hoped it would last.
---///-----////--------//---------
The location in question -- this so-called Universal Embassy -- appeared to be a large space station of oddly ornate construction, taking a form almost reminiscent of a lotus flower with multiple delicate, metallic 'petals' carved with runes and filigree.
As the Echotian ship approached, they could see vessels from several other races visiting and departing in the honeycomb of docks at the "flower's" base, including the forest green ships of the Bo'Shyen Guardian Republic. A small escort of drones had been deployed to lead them into one of the hexagonal bays, and another voice hailed them as they drew near.
"Greetings honored guests," spoke the smooth, computerized voice. "In order to make your visit as safe and comfortable as possible, all visitors will be provided a shielding amulet at the terminal, to be returned at the conclusion of their stay. Failure to wear this may result in detrimental effects on the health of non-magically inclined races. If you have any concerns, please speak with a member of the Diplomatic Onboarding Team, who will be happy to assist you."
The two knights positioned themselves at the head of the embankment ramp, awaited the final docking procedures and the 'go ahead' from navigation, before the ramp began to lower. With one final breath to slow their heart rates, and a telltale look from Lasiran, both Echos began their descent onto the landing area.
Helms immediately locked into place around each of the Echotians faces, providing them with adequate oxygen and protection in this foreign environment. Their angular armoured plates, as well as axe-like helms gave them a well-earned aura of violence, contrasted with matching red surcoats that hung to their knees, declaring them as honour bound and noble.
They carried their weapons, though slung in holsters or sheathed at their sides, and descended into their host's domain.
As the Echos exited their ship -- guided by small flickering orbs of light on the ground -- they drew quite a bit of attention from the other visitors to the station, who regarded their imposing regalia with interest and curiosity, and their weapons with suspicion. Voices whispered around them -- some excited, some apprehensive -- and where they walked, the crowds seemed to part.
Everywhere they looked, they caught glimpses of their hosts -- not too dissimilar from the variants of humanity that inhabited the galaxy, but with notable differences. Common to all were inhuman ears and long, slender tails, but the variance among these traits strained biological credulity.
Some had ears that tapered to long points; others were more animalistic, and covered with fine fur or tufts of feathers. Of those who bore horns, some were straight and narrow, while others bore sets of branching antlers adorned with moss and flowers, and others still had elegant crests that circled their brow like a wreath. Their skin was often adorned with markings and patterns, sometimes in metallic hues that glinted or glowed in the light, but where tattoos and body modification ended and natural patterning began was anyone’s guess, for many seemed to bear both. Indeed, each individual appeared demonic, bestial, and celestial all at once, with the balance of these traits shifting depending on which person you observed.
It was, however, their presence that unified them. Eyes of a thousand different gemstone and metallic hues followed the Echos as they stepped from their ramp, but each seemed much older and deeper than the ageless faces they belonged to. Moreover, the Echos could feel that same strange static in the air that they had in orbit, the radiation of energy and magic barely contained within a physical shell.
When they reached their destination, the Echos were greeted by a woman in a white gown, who handed each of them a small golden amulet adorned with carved symbols.
"Welcome, esteemed visitors, to the Tessarion Universal Embassy. Chancellor Akesha is waiting for you in the conference chambers. If you would please follow me…"
They marveled at the unique unification of the scene before them, cautiously wary of the looks they received, but committed to keeping the composure about them. Lasiran nodded curtly to those who made eye-contact with him, keeping the mood from aboard the vessel with him. Xarrial attempted to keep his gaze focused ahead, but relented after a gentle prod from his associate.
Both Echos accepted the pendents, Lasiran placing his over his head to slip around his neck, while Xarrial simply wrapped the chain around the hilt of the blade he carried.
The woman in white led the Echotian representatives deeper into the station, passing yet more marvels of magical engineering intended to delight and impress visiting dignitaries. As they walked, the hallways widened into an impressive open-air space filled with water features and parkland, complete with a simulated breeze and even a few bird-like creatures flying overhead. An artificial sun cast warm light across the fields or carefully cultured grass, and it was difficult to tell where architecture ended and the landscape began, making the entire space feel more like a resort than a governmental facility.
"The Chancellor will meet with you in the main conference hall," the woman in white continued, as she led the Echotians past small gaggles of dignitaries and impressive sculptures of floating metal and water. "Afterwards, you are welcome to explore the embassy grounds for as long as you like."
[8:48 AM]
.
Ultimately, the group arrived at a structure at the center of the park -- a sort of complex, segmented pyramid resting upon a stepped dais, made of what appeared to be pale marble and sandstone embellished with gold. Small gardens and fountains surrounded the pyramid, and each side bore a prominent central staircase that led to the upper balconies. Their guide led the Echotians up one such staircase and to the central door, which opened into a guarded atrium. With a bow, the attendants opened the final set of double doors, and the Echos were beckoned in.
The room they found themselves in was somewhat dark, at least in comparison to the "sunlit" expanse outside, and was lit instead by sconces containing roughly hewn chunks of amber that glowed from within. The central space was dominated by a long table surrounded by high-backed chairs, and the ceiling above was obscured by an illusion depicting shifting nebulae and a thousand glittering stars.
At the head of this table, reclined in a relatively simple throne of marble and gold, sat the Echos' host -- a tall woman, with dark skin, long, gold-adorned braids that gathered around her shoulders, and simple metallic markings upon her skin. For someone known as the Chancellor, her garb was far less ostentatious than her title would suggest -- a simple, sleeveless off-white dress trimmed in gold, and a few golden bangles around her wrists -- with the most striking aspect of her finery being the halo-like circlet that hovered around her temple, which seemed to be spun from pure sunlight. When the Echos entered, she folded her hands and offered them a dainty smile...whilst the horned, leonine beast curled at her feet regarded them with suspicion.
"Honored guests, allow me to welcome you to our home," the woman greeted them with a voice like velvet. "I am Chancellor Akesha. Please, sit -- my companion does not bite...though I have been known to from time to time."
The Wrath knights saluted, armoured fists clamping against their cuirasses in unison, as the chancellor finished speaking. Lasiran was first to respond, taking a seat without hesitation. Xarrial, only a moment behind, caught himself in awe at the sun-forged circlet. He had never seen such works of either technology or magics that had cause to admire, though he found himself briefly captivated by such. He played it off with a shake of his head, taking a seat at the table as well.
"The honour is ours, Chancellor."
Xarrial's words were professional; years of training and a respect for authority had drilled into him the almost automatic response. He hoped he would not come off as unpleasant, though he knew he could rely on Lasiran to counterbalance his more clipped responses.
Right on queue, Lasiran spoke.
"Indeed. The U.E.E. thank you for your time, as well as in advance for any aid you may be able to provide us. My name is Lasiran, and this is Xarrial of House Wrath. We are honoured to be welcomed here at the Embassy."
Lasiran looked to Xarrial; a comforting nod accompanying the gesture put the echo at ease knowing his companion was not entirely out of his element.
Akesha nodded at the responses, grinning softly. Though one of the Echos spoke like a diplomat, the other spoke like a soldier, which suggested to her a practical, plain-spoken people.
Good. She preferred it this way.
"We are happy to host you here. I would offer you something to eat, but I am uncertain whether our food would agree with your biology -- perhaps another time. I take it your interests lay not with our cuisine, in any event."
The two echotian knights looked at one another, before Xarrial revealed a small holo-device from beneath his robes, reaching out to center the device on the table before him. As his hands left it, a blue image flared into life of the battle above Valthris, displaying both the Isoterran and Echotian forces locked in combat. Primarily highlighted in a red, eerie light was the beam-like weapons employed by the Isoterrans.
"During our engagement, the Isoterrans implemented unnatural weapons; ones that could bypass our defenses, and wreak havoc on the crew within. We could not counter them, and were forced to achieve victory through sheer brute strength..."
Xarrial's voice trailed off for a moment as the screams entered his mind again, and the Echotian relented to focus his attention on maintaining his heart rate while Lasiran continued in his stead.
"We understand them to be of an arcane nature, one that the Venetari share a keen proficiency for if your reputation does not do any injustices. I suppose what we are seeking is knowledge. Where does such a bountiful resource originate, and how could it be harnessed into a weapon such as this?"
Akesha's expression remained neutral, and her golden eyes watched the hologram intently. Indeed, the Venetari had become aware of this event -- it had been well publicized since it occurred, and the idea of a rogue, aggressive nation wielding magical weaponry had caused concern among her generals.
"I can only speculate on the nature of this weapon, without having seen the damage myself. If we would be permitted to examine the ships in question, perhaps we can make a more exact determination."
She paused, then reclined in the chair, steepling her fingers. "To your question, the nature of magic is...troublesome to explain, namely due to how malleable of a force it is. It is powered by a form of energy called mana, which does not conform to traditional physical laws as you may know them, and which differs depending on where you are from. Where we come from, mana suffused everything -- the air, the grass, the water. Here, in this realm, magic pours forth from great leylines, like rivers of energy, breaking into lakes and tributaries scattered throughout space. Drawing upon these sources of power, or constructing your own, allows for the casting of magic through sufficient discipline and will."
Lasiran looked to Xarrial, accessing his macrys link with the fellow knight as he spoke in their native tongue.
"Agreeable, Xa'tor? Another's eyes could aid us, and it would considerably ease the tension of the Kings?"
Xarrial chirped back, the clipped language sounding more mechanical than natural.
"I see no reason to deny them, Kings will it."
Both knights turned back to Akesha, their conversation lasting no more than a couple seconds, before Lasiran spoke plainly again/
"Arrangements can be made to allow for the inspection of the vessels in question, though there will have to be some notion of security on hand. If you are able to assign such a representative, we will make preparations for their arrival."
"What would you ask in exchange for such a service?", Xarrial added, curious as to the motives of their newfound acquaintance.
"Consider this a simple kindness," Akesha replied. "As it happens, I am curious and concerned about the Isoterrans as well. All I would ask in return is that you give consideration to opening diplomatic relations between our people. "
The two Echotians exchanged nods of approval, though there was a mutual understanding that accepting this would open them up to a debt. Perhaps these Venetari were simply benevolent, but to judge them at face value alone would be foolish. They would be allowed to prove themselves.
Lasiran returned his gaze to Akesha, a low clicking ‘purr’ accompanying his words.
"Very well. We will inform our Kings of your generous offer, and ensure that preparations are made for the inspection of the ships in question. We are grateful for the time you have given us, Akesha'vo'ra. It has been an honour."
"The honor has been mine," Akesha replied, touching her chest. "Your people are welcome to pay us a visit at any point -- we welcome new friends in this strange realm. For now, I will arrange for a forensic team to be prepared for your summons."
---------////-----------///-------------------------------
The Wrath fleet above the Estanixian star-port bustled with activity as preparations were made for the arrival of both the Venetari and Echotian forces. The Chancellor's deal had been rapidly relayed to the Kings of House Wrath, who insisted upon attending the inspection, despite the warnings from House Valour that it would come off as mistrusting or threatening. What remained of the Wrath King's ship, and the fleet she had commanded, was docked at this station. If more aliens were coming into the Empire, Aurix wanted to be there.
----------///------------------------------------
The two Wrath Kings stood shoulder to shoulder in the viewing platform above the main hanger; a colossal slot in the crescent-like station that currently housed Aurix's vessel. The sheer size of the ship was something to behold, though by now the Echotians were long accustomed to being in awe of such technology. They were the commanders of millions, able to rend the stars red with blood if their will required it to be, they did not balk in the presence of their power.
A doorway slid open behind them with a mechanical hiss, allowing Kalyx to enter with a pause, giving a well practiced salute to his Kings. He held it, longer than he anticipated he would have to, before Aurix turned her gaze towards him.
"You bring news?"
Aurix's imperative tone sent a shiver down Kalyx's spine as he spoke, his words were again, very well practiced.
"Venetari ships have been detected entering proximity range. They will be with us momentarily. Shall we depart, my Kings?"
Kadin turned, his own voice no less comforting.
"Indeed, let us greet our generous allies.
The arrival of the Venetari was accompanied by the sort of ostentatious display one might expect. Bright lights, like magnesium flares, sparked into existence and began tracing out concentric rings of sigils in the void of space. Each ring spun before stopping abruptly, seemingly locking into place, before collapsing into what appeared to be a wormhole in the center.
It was from this portal that the Echos' visitors appeared, arriving in shimmering, silver-white vessels trimmed with gold, and born aloft on ribbons of prismatic light. The force was small -- composed largely of escorts and picket ships should the meeting turn sour -- with the most notable inclusion being the large, resplendent carrier that was the last to arrive.
It was from this carrier that the shuttle containing the Venetari specialists departed and made way for the station, docking in short order, appearing almost dainty when surrounded by the imposing and utilitarian Echotian architecture. Upon landing, the shuttle's apparently seamless hull split and shifted, opening into a set of floating platforms that served as a ramp for the disembarking visitors, each of them distinct from the last.
Avryn Vol Saris, a specialist in divination and metamagical studies, and accredited professor of arcanistry, stood in the center -- a tall, pale woman with arched brows, sharp features, chin-length black hair that was tinged with blue, and what appeared to be crystalline spectacle lenses floating just below her silvery eyes. She wore a sharp, professional gown of midnight blue trimmed in silver, and carried a data tablet tucked in the crook of her elbow.
Beside her, clad in a glittering copper dress adorned with a crimson sash, was Cyndra Del Tora, an expert in evocation, magical armaments, and all that was explosive and sparkly. Her wild red hair billowed around her head and trailed into twisting flames, and in stark contrast to her stoic companion, the bronze-skinned woman instead took in every sight the Echotian station had to offer, grinning.
Finally, clad in a forest green tunic adorned with what appeared to be living tree branches, stood Daitos Fel Shan, a master biomancer and expert in bio-etherics. He had previously been studying with the Bo'Shyen, having become enamored with their culture and fascinated by the magic of their Druids, but when it was suggested that the Isoterrans had used a weapon that targeted the soul, Akesha had recalled him to serve as a consultant. He was the tallest of those assembled, with a set of branching antlers emerging from his long black hair, and almond-shaped eyes the color of amber.
Avryn regarded the Echotian structure with a flat expression, analyzing it all with a slight tilt of her head. She held out the data tablet, which remained suspended in mid air in front of her, and typed a few notes on the holographic screen, awaiting their hosts.
Two rows of Echotian soldiers were arranged before the Venetari. At a quick glance, there were probably well over a hundred in total, creating a path outwards from the shuttle like some massive alien chess set. There was a buzz in the air, as the excitement at the guests arrival sent waves of fervent curiosity through the space. Suddenly the mood seemed to shift, as if some unheard signal rippled through the room, snuffing its playful aura.
A door at the far end of the room slid open with a growl, revealing the source of the harsh atmosphere.
The rows of Echotians took a step back before kneeling as the first of the Wrath Kings exited the lift.
Aurix Janthik set the march; her footfalls echoing throughout the chamber as her retinue fell in behind her. She was magnificent to behold, though she carried an aura of death with her stride. Her armour, onyx black and framed in a scarlet cloak, gave her the impression of a bloodied dagger carved from a single obsidian shard. Every motion spoke of untold strength, and every step announced her power to those assembled. Her helm did not betray this power, as it displayed a crown of blacked, thorny spikes like a maleficent, ebony crown. She was the embodiment of House Wrath, the teeth within the maw.
Kadin Drakks fell into step behind his superior, though he did not carry any less weight to his stride. His armour had a more classical look and feel compared to Aurix's sleek form, though it did not seem to weigh him down. Jet armour to match his superior was cut down the center by the cloak that fell over his right pauldron, flowing around the gauntlet that rested upon the pommel of his blade. His axe-like helm carried with it a crown of thorns, though they glistened with a reddish hue and seemed to glow from the base.
Kalyx and Ebrix brought up the second wave of Echotians, followed closely by Lasiran and Xarrial, each adorned in a much simpler armour style than their superiors, though no less functional. These were the representatives of the Echotian Empire, and they would not be found lacking in the face of their hired help.
As they neared the Venatari representatives, Aurix stopped her advance, which was immediately mirrored by her subordinates.
There was a brief moment of judgment as the Wrath Kings sized up their guests, noting their garb, their equipment, and their general anatomy, before the tension was broken.
"Honoured guests."
Aurix's words echoed throughout the chamber, giving her an even larger presence.
"Your willingness to answer our calls speaks volumes of your character. May the coming days benefit us both."
As their hosts approached, the three Venetari representatives took a bow. Of the three, Cyndra seemed the most in awe, her eyes wide with wonder and a certain appreciation for the dramatic flair on display. The somewhat shy and reserved Daitos kept his eyes to the ground, his deer-like ears twitching nervously at each clack of Echotian talons on the metallic floor.
Only Avryn seemed unmoved by the intimidating display, regarding the Echos like one would examine an organism beneath a microscope, though this was perhaps less due to courage and nonchalance, and more her being too busy analyzing the Echos to really register their gravitas.
Bipedal, six limbs; leg structure suggests formidable speed and agility. Likely carnivorous diet; pursuit or ambush predator evolution. Armor serves dual purpose of protection and intimidation. Kneeling indicates deference to leadership class. Recommend appointment of Ragnosi officials to manage relations due to shared warrior heritage…
As the thoughts crossed her mind, lines of flowing Venetari script scrawled across the surface of the data pad, chronicling her observations for further reflection. She nodded towards Aurix, the floating silver crescent circling her brow following the motion, and gestured toward the other representatives.
"Chancellor Akesha sends her regards. I hope that my companions and I may be of some use to you," Avryn replied, her voice as sharp and precise as a razor blade. "Shall we begin?"
"We shall."
The Wrath Kings voice seemed to soften ever so slightly, though not enough to be overt.
"I am Aurix, High King of House Wrath. This is Kadin, my upper right hand. I trust you have been informed of our predicament, though I am sure the reports do not quite encapsulate the true extent of our plight..."
She continued, guiding the party aboard the immense vessel in the dockyard. The Warship was similar to Aurix herself, and imposed a similar feeling of trepidation as well as awe. As the group continued, Kadin recalled the words of Xarrial, describing the scene aboard in the lower decks. The countless bodies of their kin, lying still where they had collapsed, their armour and training made into a mockery by foul magics.
Aurix growled at the mention of the magic weaponry, her rage at the loss of so many of her soldiers caused her to clench her fists.
"Perhaps with your help we can get to the bottom of what this weapon's capabilities are. Only then can we formulate a counter-offence."
The Echotian King turned to their guests as they stopped, now standing within the forward blade of the warship.
"The bodies have been relocated for processing, but the rest have been left untouched. If you require anything, you have only to ask."
As soon as they entered, Daitos shivered and muttered a curse, making a solemn gesture of benediction towards the spirits of the slain Echos with a haunted look in his eyes.
Cyndra, meanwhile, strode forward, trailing her fingers over one of the consoles before raising them to her face, as though inspecting for dust.
"No blast residue," she noted, turning in place to examine the bulkhead surrounding them, shielding her eyes to get a better look. "Don't see any thermal spalling or evidence of radiation burns, so it probably wasn't anything particle-based. Were the computer systems intact? Did anything short circuit?"
Daitos shook his head. "Something foul was at work here…" he remarked, his voice low and serene. "This ship...feels like a tomb…"
The biomancer struck his staff against the floor with a metallic thud, the sound of which resonated eerily on and on through the derelict vessel, seemingly forever.
"Can you not hear it? That emptiness...Life's Song has fallen silent here…"
Cyndra huffed and crossed her arms. "And for those of us who don't speak riddles?"
"Whole decks...scoured clean of life...down to the microbial level…"
Avryn walked in a rough circle around the room, holding up a hand as one would some kind of scanner. "There is a definite magical signature here, something...esoteric...Cyndra?"
Cyndra shook her head, causing her hair to ripple like dancing flames. "It wasn't Evocation -- if it were, there would be physical damage to the bulkhead and other parts of the ship, but I can't find anything."
"That was my assessment as well…" Avryn agreed. "Most curious...Perhaps some form of magically transported biological agent, or something summoned within the ship itself…"
She turned to the Echos. "We will need to examine the bodies to determine the actual cause of death, and perhaps shed some light on the mechanics of this weapon."
Aurix looked to Kadin, who turned back to Avryn.
"There are still many that require identification. If you believe that they will garner more worth than your inspection here, then we can bring you to them."
The Echos turned once more, leading the delegates through the empty halls of the ship. Their path doubled back on their original route, but diverted at a familiar junction. They had not wanted to lead their guests past the rows of bodies for obvious reasons, but since it had been requested, they had no reason to continue with such illusions.
As they walked, Aurix spoke softly, careful now to not let her authoritative tone take hold of her words. She spoke to the group as a whole, ensuring her voice was heard by all.
"I am going to ask you all to take great care when we enter the mortuary. There are many who grieve for the loss of their kin, myself included. Though I do not expect any desecration of the dead, I would ask that our conversations are kept low to allow for the process to go unimpeded."
As she finished speaking, a door ahead slid open, revealing a vast room filled with lines of echotian bodies, most covered in thin veils to shield them from view, but many more openly lying, still in their armour. The sounds of muffled cries could be heard from within, as groups of Echotians knelt beside loved ones, and others said their final farewells to brothers in arms. It was a solemn place, and Kadin put a hand on Aurix's shoulder as they entered, comforting her in this surely difficult time.
Aurix's voice was moments from breaking as she spoke softly again.
"You may do your work. If you require anything, please do not hesitate to ask."
Mindful of the grief that pervaded the area, the Venetari investigators crept through the rows of deceased, careful not to disturb the others any more than they had to. Ultimately, they came upon an Echo not currently surrounded by mourners off to one side of the room, and Avryn motioned for the others to stand beside it.
The body was partially covered by a white sheet, having its chest armour partially removed to get a better look at the neck tattoo for easier identification. It was an Echotian clade tattoo, often used to bond younger echos during military training. This one, for instance, was of clade Fo'Rek.
Aurix took a long look at the stunned visage of the Echo, crouching down next to the body to trace a hand across the warrior's braids.
"I knew this one. A fine warrior named Prasix."
Her mood swayed for a moment, venturing into a vengeful snarl before she tempered herself in an icy calm. Her attention turned to the Venetari as she stood.
"Whatever you can glean from his body will aid us in preventing such atrocities. Do what you must."
Avryn nodded, and turned her attention back to the body, making notes as she began her analysis. In theory, the cadaver should have begun decaying some time ago, yet the young Echo look almost as though he were simply sleeping, and there was no sign of physical damage to the armor or the form beneath it.
"No sign of physical injury…" She murmured, more to herself than anyone else.
She hovered her hands over the body, a faint blue light emanating from them as she began to peer into the Astral plane to examine the patterns of mana surrounding the body.
What she found caused her to frown.
"Daitos?"
"The body is intact," the biomancer replied, having been performing an examination of his own. "No physical damage. No decomposition.. No microorganisms of any kind. The body is a wound in the fabric of life around it…"
Avryn nodded, a faint silvery blue glow in her eyes. "Troubling…"
She looked back to Aurix, her expression almost one of disgust. "Your people appear to have been slain by some form of what we would call Necromancy -- an attack that targeted the soul, the animus, rather than the physical body.'
Aurix was puzzled; for a moment she did not understand exactly what Avryn was implying. The realization dawned on the Wrath King as her eyes lingered on the body, lying prone on the hard metal floor.
Her claws clenched into fists as she quelled her rage and kept herself in check.
The Echos around her similarly shared her sentiment, Kadin especially leaning in against Aurix, before turning to Avryn.
"Such blasphemous weapons of war, to snuff the lives of so many so frivolously, there will surely be consequences for its implementation."
Aurix and Kadin took another look at the corpse, taking it in one last time before turning away.
"Blasphemous is a shallow word for such things..." Daitos observed, shaking his horns like an agitated deer.
"Indeed -- the use of such weapons has been outlawed in our domain, and the magic required to conjure it is forbidden," Avryn replied, brushing a hair from her face. "This is why the weapon bypassed your shields and armor -- it was never designed to interact with the physical world in the first place, but to eject the soul from the body."
There was a moment when the two Echotian Kings gazed out at the rows of bodies, allowing themselves a chance to think about what to do next.
They should retaliate; drive the Isoterrans from their worlds and rid the galaxy of their sneering, ugly faces. Aurix imagined herself at the head of a great fleet, pulverizing anything that dared meet her in battle with streaks of Echotian lance fire. She looked to Kadin and, despite their helms, he could feel the look of conquest in her eyes. It didn't take a psychic to know that Aurix wanted to avenge her kin more than anyone else. Kadin's demeanor however, one of restraint, pulled Aurix back from her declarations of war.
A stray glance at Prasix brought understanding to the Wrath King, knowing in her heart that no matter how many they killed, it would not bring the dead back. Another war for the U.E.E. would only stand to put more of her soldiers at risk, something she could not in good conscience condone. They would be given their death rites, and honoured as warriors. No shame would be cast to their names, for they died defending their Empire. They should all be so lucky as to meet the same fate one day.
Aurix's voice was firm now, the pain in her throat washed away by a wave of responsibility. Now was her time to lead, to act, and there was no room for her own convictions. She was a King of the U.E.E., and there were many ways to drive a blade.
"My honoured guests, I thank you for this insight. Perhaps you could answer a query of mine, as my last request of you before we conclude this investigation?"
The Wrath Kings turned to face their new Venetari acquaintances, a new fire lit in their hearts.
"What do the Venetari do with practitioners of necromancy?"