The Lord of Mictlan rises from the darkness, immobile after exiting the warp, looming as an immense monolith in the depths of space.

Slowly, the tlacochalcatl steps on the holo-platform, cloaked in his long dark brown mantle, adorned with human phalanxes, swaying behind him, as the all seeing eye of Tlahuizcalli appears in front of him. "How may I serve you, tlacochalcatl?" "Begin holographic transmission, to all HDSTF 148 captains." Quickly, lights flicker to life and buzzing noises arrive from the Tlahuizcalli interface. The captain stands solemnly still, holding in his right arm his Ocelotl helmet, decorated with long, brightly colored feathers. The tlacochalcatl's face is crossed by a deep scar, running all the way from the left eye to the neck, along with numerous bone piercings. His long hair is adorned with braids, pieces of bone, feathers and other such decorations. "The holo-transmission is ready, my lord."

"Warriors, I am Achcautli, tlacochalcatl of the Mictlan and captain of the HSV Mictlantecuhtli. I and my children have been chosen to command HDSTF 148; thus, you will all take orders from me. I suppose that it will be needless to say that I won't accept any kind of insubordination on your part. Captain Nelson, you will be allowed to use our ship to protect your own. Captain Lestrange, I wish to notify you that a Quetzalli transport with 50 Cuauhmeh on board has already left our ship for yours. They are to remain there for the whole duration of the mission, to function as a landing and boarding force for your ship's recon operations. Their commander is Nezahualcoyotl, and is one of my most trusted men. Captain Renard, you should receive in a matter of minutes a transmission from cuachic Xicohtencatl. He will oversee the deployment of marines from your ship, along with those of the HSV Nelson."

"This is all. May your ancestors smile upon you." The holographic transmission closes, and Achcautli steps down from the platform. With his usual slow, heavy steps, he heads to the the House of Darts, the inner sanctum of the ship, to perform the sacred rites that the gods require before a war begins.