A.N.O.M.A.L.O.U.S . M.E.A.S.U.R.E.S

A.N.O.M.A.L.O.U.S . M.E.A.S.U.R.E.S

(Live Session RP – Titanpad)

11136 NSD – The Second Umarian War
Spiral: Elysium System: On route to Ayenee
Operational Theatre: Project Archangel

“We poured our hearts out, the strength of leagues of men and women for over a thousand years! We opened our minds to the possibilty that we no longer could afford to sit and wait for the next war to come to us. We joined together, shared our intellect – our sense of unity with an entire quadrant of the galaxy. This ship, this majesty of the astral seas was built with the heart of Lorenz and it’s allies melded into it’s metal. It is a symbol of potence, a symbol of an Imperial strength that has returned to us. Our enemies shall tremble within sight of it, it shall be our hammer – the expression of our will and restored federation!” ~ Launch of the Allegiance, 11136 NSD

Crossing the transuniversal gate at Hellespawn had been a feat worth mentioning in the history books, the Allegiance’s size left clearance on either side of the gate apature at less than three meters. The massive Federation produced Titan was the first vessel built designed to compete with the Umarian Leviathans. Stretching nearly twenty three kilometers long and eighteen kilometers wide at the extremes, it made the vessel the largest ship ever constructed in the Yirune Arm and possibly the Unyian Spiral. One of the vessel’s most noteable features was it’s two multipurpose bays, so massive that each could hold up to six of the acclaimed Helios-Jodasa Class Flagships which had been previously heralded as the strongest vessels in Toyotomi Zaibatsu’s third generation lineup. Visable lateral profile gave the Allegiance a smooth, contoured appearance capturing the fluid bird-like features typical of most vessels of the time, while the more detailed dorsal views gave a sense of almost shark-like atributes with massive wing-like structures and rising superstructure spires. The vessel’s arsenal was a matter of discussion and heavy classification, there was no secret of the ship’s nature however – hidden beneath propaganda and pro-national and federation retoric was a vessel designed for the execution of manuvers that could decimate worlds.

Two Uaru-Class shuttles, escorted by three squadrons of K13 Desune-Class ‘Slayer’ Power Armors approached the Allegiance’s Port-side, “Red Zone” Launchbay.

“This is shuttle Vetaxis-Four-Seventy-Six…We are Noria-One, on an inbound for landing on NIS Allegiance. Please authenticate under voice and scan protocol. Acidian Order authorized Pilot #485-ACL-93.” The pilot of the lead shuttle communicated with the massive Titan as it moved into the final approach lane for landing on the newly launched bohemouth.

“Approaching shuttle, this is port-side Flight Control Tower. We confirm, you are Noria-One and on inbound.” The Allegiance’s crew were caught off guard by the arrival of the shuttles, already personnel were being rerouted away from the landing bay depending on their access levels.

The power armor details broke away from the shuttles once they entered the Titan’s inner shield perimeter, scrambling to re-enter formation as their commanding officers barked orders over the comm. The shuttles landed on the polished black floor of the launch bay as service ladders and crews moved into position to attend to the post-landing mainetance of the two craft which had travelled almost three-thousand light years to catch up to them. The second shuttle was the first to open, the commanding voice of a female emerging from the interior.

“Forty three seconds! Go! Go! Go!….” The polished black female issued military boots of General Kayta Molov hit the deck of the legendary vessel with little care what it was called or who was in charge of it. The young woman had more than her hands full with a bunch of greenhorns riding with her more veteran service detail. Leading Acadian Order was no simple task, responsible for the protection of the Aestaesys and the Imperial Ysi — she followed in the footsteps of a giant, her father ..the legendary General Sebastian Molov.

“Get that gear the frack off the deck!” Kayta yelled, pointing at one of the mainteance men wheeling a service cart towards the two shuttles. A slight move of her hand and two of the armored soldiers travelling with her moved to search the cart and check the identifcation of the crewman. The remaining six in the Acidian Order detail followed her moving towards the other shuttle. Kayta’s hand stopping to rap against the tinted windshield of the cockpit as she passed.

“Deck is secure…Lets get this rabbit out of the hat.” Kayta said as she and her men made a circular formation around the shuttle.

Tal’Kryso Silentvine to Port-side Launch Alpha…. The AI called for the vessel’s commander to report to the launch bay to accept the unscheduled arrival.

Two Vaesudan females exited the shuttle first, wearing the obvious robes of the royal house of Syr’vai. The two Praetors often travelled as companions to the Aestaesys as that they held power in the Federation’s strongest contributors. They made their way past Kayta and were escorted off the launch deck and away from the shuttle as the General made one last visual sweep of the bay.

Kayta brought the whistle up to her lips and blew into it, signalling the arrival of a superior.

»¤«

In the sprawling Command bridge, Tal’Kryso Ivera Silentvine was going over log reports of the latest data streams to come in from the maintenance section crews. All was above board and operational, much to Ivera’s pleasure. Sliding her finger across the data pad, she then handed it to a junior officer and gave him a reassuring nod, before heading towards the lift. Ivera had been on duty for the past twenty hours, and was due for her rest break, so it was no surprise when her expression went from relaxed to a sudden look of apprehension.

“Tal’Kryso Silentvine to Port-side Launch Alpha…”

The AI called over the ships communications, silencing all others in the wake of an important arrival upon the NIS Allegiance. ~We weren’t expecting an inspection today~ Ivera thought to herself, as the doors to the lift slid open right on cue. Ivera slid back her right sleeve, and tapped in a code on her arm bracelet; clearing her thoat as she replied;

“Tal’Kryso Silentvine…message received. On route to the Port-side Launch Alpha….Out.”

Turning as she entered the lift, to reach for the button panel, she sung out to her second in command. “Cancel my rest period…looks like we have company. Make sure all are on their toes. Probably an official visit.” The Second in command saluted as the doors closed with a light hush, returning to face the large command crew that operated the NIS Allegiance. “You heard the Tal’Kryso…all to attention. Keep lively.”

Due to the ship’s vast size, when the lift door opened on the next bay level, the Tal’Kryso would be met by two shuttle officers, that escorted the Tal’Kryso to the nearest internal shuttle. These travelled the length and breath of the ships interior and saved much time in getting the higher ranking officers to the lower parts of the vessel. Saluting the officers as she entered the confines of the shuttle and taking a seat. The inner design of the shuttles were for opulence and comfort, with plush teal blue coloured seating in the glazed metallic coccoon like cabin. The officers did a quick safety check, before the doors closed and sealed, before the shuttle took off at speed, hurtling down the illuminated tunnels, past living quarters and the many recreational and training halls that were scattered across the ship. The distance travelled took but a mere five minutes before finally coming into the Port-side Launch Alpha terminal, where the electromagnetic systems were reduced and the shuttle came into rest on the landing plate.

Tal’Kryso Silentvine rose slowly, dusting herself down, and quickly raising her hands up to smooth back her mauve coloured locks, that were tied back into a long plait that swept down her back. Dressed immacuately in a black sheen silken suit, with gold stars on her shoulders, as well as the bars to mark the many battles she had engaged in during her years of service, she was highly decorated and respected by the crew of the NIS Allegiance. A no nonsense woman, who regarded duty to come before her personal life, she spent ever waking hour either on the command deck, or studying in her quarters. A quick tug of her jacket and she marched out the doors of the shuttle; her black leater military boots hitting the black surface of the launch bay floor. What greeted her, was a sight she had not expected.

The shrill sound of a whistle being blown alerted her attention towards General Kayta Molov, who had a stern look about her. Ivera approached and saluted formally, before the General, and then held her arms behind her back, with her eyebrow raised as to the nature of the visit. However, when she spotted the two Praetors, dressed regally in robes of the royal house of Syr’vai, it dawned on Ivera that this was a royal inspection. Ivera dropped her arms to her sides, and stood to attention. Giving the General a firm nod, she said in welcome;

“General Molov…this is a surprise. Welcome aboard the NIS Allegiance. We were not advised of this inspection. Might I enquire has the Aestaesys decided to pay us a visit, or is this more than just a social event?”

»¤«

A dufflebag came flying out of the airlock of the shuttle, landing with a thud at the feet of the Tal’Kryso. A second bag followed soon after, pushing the first forwards and right up against her boot. A chuckle came from Kayta as she looked down at the bags and then back up to the Fleet Admiral. “I think I will let him explain…” she said. A cargo crate, one of the smaller personal sized ones was tossed from the shuttle, and skidded across the polished floor with a rattle.

“It absolutely amazes me, when I could live without you annoying fuckers I have twenty waiting in line trying to wipe my ass…” the voice came from the shuttle. “…but when there is luggage to be handled, not a single one.” A grunt of frustration, followed by another cargo crate being tossed from the shuttle’s interior. “…Nightmare.” the masculine voice returned, obviously less than thrilled about unloading the shuttle. Towering at six foot, two inches the man was a force to be reckoned with – that was for sure. Wearing the newer ‘Ioshir’-style command uniform, with dark green panels that covered the shoulders above corded separation running at sharp angles from the apex of the mandarin collar above tbthe hex-textured black uniform weave below, he easily showed off the trimmed physique beneath. Like most of his family, the Eitan was far from lacking when it came to appeal, the media had been at his rapture since his climb back to power. Signature crystalline blue orbs looking to Kayta first and then Ivera, he smiled slightly bringing accent to the high-rested regal cheekbones that told tales of his genetics. The mark of Venaeus was more obvious than the sigil of the Eitan, the mark of his mother’s house worn predominately and with more potency than his more infamous father. Many had attributed his likeness to hers, the Auto-bow AMARISA strapped to his back. Aestaesys Airwin Eitan stepped down the ramp, giving Kayta a firm nod before giving his attention to the Tal’Kryso.

“By order of Federation Star Navy Command, I am taking command of this vessel and you are hereby reassigned as it’s first officer. Let it be entered in the ship’s log.” He said, fomality hung in his voice for only a second before he motioned to the circle of Acidian Order protectors. “Since it appears we need half the order on detail when I arrive onboard an allied vessel…you can figure out who is going to carry my things.” He motioned to the pile of bags, heading towards the doors for the deck’s main corridor. “Tal’Kryso…please…walk with me.” He ordered, Kayta motioned for the Tal’Kryso to go ahead of her.

»¤«

The thud of the bags being tossed out of the shuttle was something of a surprise for the Tal’Kryso. Rather unorthodox to say the least, when she was expecting to have the Aestaesys waltz down the landing ramp and do the usual formal introduction. But no…that was certainly not on the cards today. Ivera shot a look at General Kayta who simply stated that she would let him explain. One of the bags slid right up to Ivera’s boot, and it took all her will not to kick out of her way. Already, she was getting a bad feeling about this visit, especially after hearing his raucous tone, and cussing coming from deep within.

“It absolutely amazes me, when I could live without you annoying fuckers I have twenty waiting in line trying to wipe my ass…”

Ivera blinked at the language, but even moreso that the ladies in fine robes wiped his ass. She could not help but think to herself. ~So this is what they are like?~ Trying to hide her true feelings at this point, and keep herself held in good stead, then next thing was she actually clapped eyes on him. Ridiculously good looking. He was dressed a lot better than she had imagined, and for all his bravado, it was interesting that he appeared more formal than he truly was. Oh…but things were about to get a whole lot worse for the Tal’Kryso.

“By order of Federation Star Navy Command, I am taking command of this vessel and you are hereby reassigned as it’s first officer. Let it be entered in the ship’s log.”

~WHAT?!~

If one was to look upon Tal’Kryso Silentvine, you could see the colour practically drain from her face. She had spent years preparing for her role as Commander of the NIS Allegiance, and it was a role she felt she was made for. Now..she was to be pushed back to being First officer, to serve under this roguish Aestaesys, who spoke suddenly with refinement and intent. Ivera held herself to attention as the Aestaesys gave directions for his belongings, and who was to cart them. Ivera almost thought for a moment, that she was to carry his things, and she was actually drawing her nails into the palms of her hands, to stop herself from giving him a piece of her mind. Course, that is not the way a newly appointed First Officer should behave and instead, she acted with poise, and nodded but once, after Kayta had directed her to follow the new Commander towards the deck’s main corridor.

One thing was certain. Ivera..hated his guts.

“Tal’Kryso…please…walk with me.”

“Very well, Aestaesys.” Was all she said.

»¤«

Airwin was not one for a lot of filler, nor was he going to engage the Fleet Admiral with a bunch of sugar coating. His eyes wandered to take in the sights of this new ship, one he had plenty of familiarity with as that the final stages of it’s construction was simultaneous with his rise to power. “I’m not sure what your clearance level was before my arrival and frankly it is moot as of now anyway.” He said, looking out over the railing down into the cityscape that was the bulk of Arnanda Sector’s interior. The ship was a true marvel, something that even left him awestruck. Massive cityscapes, a shipyard, and deck after deck of military administration and function – it was home to over three million. “I hope you made yourself familiar with this region of space, it appears to be key in what is going on with those who have taken this war to the deadliest of lengths.” He explained, knowing she was obviously agitated. “Two days ago the NIS Karassa, commanded by my brother, encountered an abandoned vessel matching the registry to the LCS Asalnara. The twelve hundred year old wreck had of all things..survivors, Including my paternal grandmother from another timeline.” Airwin stopped at the railing, looking down at an artificial lake on the edge of the Arnanda Sector’s residential area. “…While no time vessel or technology has been recovered, we believe this is connected to the trigger for the Umarian invasion.” The Aestaesys turned his head, now looking directly at the Tal’Kryso.

“According data from the Alsanara, the detonation of the temporal weapon which sent it to the present was near this region. I want to find some answers and possibly the two other ships that were with the battleship when it disappeared.” Airwin paused for a second. “With all due respect, Tal’Kryso…I know the last thing any Commander wants is their superior sitting on their command…but, I think you are going to have your hands full.” He tried to buffer the situation the best he could. “In addition to the objectives I have mentioned…we have determined that this region of the Elysium Spiral is essential to our security. Therefore I am ordering you to oversee the securing of the Ayenee System, along with other key locations in local space.” Airwin looked to Ivera, wondering how she would respond.

»¤«

Walking alongside the Aestaesys, Ivera had just felt like she had her career torn right out from under her, and for reasons she didn’t quite understand as of this point in time. The Aestaesys was a man of few words, and didn’t break into some idle chatter about the interior of the ship. His mannerisims were less than endearing, almost like he didn’t care for procedure or protocol. Tal’kryso Ivera walked with her arms to her sides, not feeling relaxed in his presence, and kept a stiff upper lip in the face of her demotion.

“I’m not sure what your clearance level was before my arrival and frankly it is moot as of now anyway.”

With the change in command, there was clearly going to be disquiet with how the vessel was to be run. Tal’kyrso Ivera had everything running smoothly and in an orderly fashion, which was a blessing considering the vast population of the NIS Allegiance. Now, that was all to change. By the last remark, there was something he wasn’t quite getting too, in his reasons for taking command of the ship. Reasons that were to become clearer, as they walked further along the deck. Ivera kept her thoughts very close to home, not wanting to interject as the Aestaesys made clear about what took place two days earlier, to his brother’s ship; the NIS Karassa. How it had come across what was to be considered a floating mueseum, but contained life forms; live ones, including his paternal Grandomother from another timeline. The idea…sounded so far fetched, that Ivera actually stopped in her tracks, trying to process it all.

“A twelve hundred year wreck….with survivors?” Ivera thought this had to be some sort of bad joke, but to mention that his paternal Grandmother was onboard, made her all the more curious. “How could this possibly have triggered the Umarian invasion? It just doesn’t make sense.”

The more she heard though, it became clear that the Aestaesya was speaking the truth, and large questions remained about the other two ships that were have been in the vicinity of the stricken ship, before it fell foul to the tear of time. The Aestaersya then explained that the temporal weapon from one of the ships was fired in this region, and that would offer clues as to why the Aestaesys was here now, to take control and find the answers to the reasons behind the Umarian uprising.

Ivera still had that look on her face; disappointment. Clearly he would be able to see from looking at her, that she felt like the rug had been pulled out from under her. As much as she tried to hide it, it didn’t fool the Aestaesya one bit.

“With all due respect, Tal’Kryso…I know the last thing any Commander wants is their superior sitting on their command…but, I think you are going to have your hands full.”

“If what you are saying is true, then that will be the case.” Ivera said in response to her hands being full. I will continue to serve the NIS Allegiance and her people, till such a time, I am no longer required in active duty.” Ivera was loyal to a fault, but could she work alongside Airwin, or would he leave her to carry out the duties that he had specified. In particular the securing of the Ayenee system and its territories. That order in itself was a large undertaking, but one she felt she could accomplish. As he squared off on her, she stared back at him, with a darkness to her eyes. He was now her official boss.

“I shall get a start on my new assignment and duties at once, Aestaesys.” Ivera said firmly with a salute, ready to be dismissed. Lowering her arm to her side, Ivera tilted her head back slightly and awaited his word.

»¤«

Airwin sighed, rather loudly as Ivera spoke. “Look, with all due respect…” He said, turning back to look out over the city. “…I’m not here to take your command away from you. If you want the bridge, the chair – its yours.” He nodded slightly, “I’ve stood where you’re standing…you can check my service record if you need to.” He squinted a bit, tryng to see something on the other side of the massive area. “You’re a fine officer, a dedicated commander…afterall I gave you the reigns of this…ship.” The hold of the Alliegance was something that had been griped over by many of the admiralty. “I’m just not willing to sit on Lorenz…on my ass while my people are out here dying.” He said with confidence. “So Admiral, all I can say is command your ship, and try to work with me when I need it.” He smiled, then began walking down the corridor.

“Surely…this place is big enough for the two of us….” He said, motioning Kayta to follow behind him.

»¤«

For a moment, the Aestaesys appeared to be annoyed with the manner in which Ivera took the news of her demotion, and tried to explain that he was there to do a job. Rather than be stuck back at Lorenz, sitting on his hands while his people faced the threat of war from the Umarians. Truth was, he was dealing with an officer who had worked all her life to rise through the ranks to even be in the position to Command the NIS Allegiance. The stoney wall facade that she put in place to soldier on in the face of this, started to crumble, when he said;

“You’re a fine officer, a dedicated commander…afterall I gave you the reigns of this…ship.”

“Yes, Aestaesys, you did. And I am grateful for the appointment.”

Ivera slowly loosened her fingers, no longer having them balled into fists, as the fight started to leave her. Speaking as an Officer, and not as the real person that lay beneath gave no insight to how she felt, and if he was to take over this role, he needed her to be brutally honest, and work with him in his quest for peace.

“So Admiral, all I can say is command your ship, and try to work with me when I need it.”

“Aye Aye…Aestaesys.” Ivera said, while she watched him walking away, with his General in tow. Left on her own, she stood for a moment, then placed her hands upon the rails and gazed down over the artificial lake. The words fading as he had some distance from her, almost a throw away attempt at sarcasm.

“Surely…this place is big enough for the two of us….”

“Indeed it is….” Ivera slammed her hand on the rail, and then marched off in the opposite direction, heading for her own quarters, where she planned to sleep off her aggression. The war had not even begun in her eyes….the war for the ship itself.

»¤«

To be continued…