Andronicus23

Dark Matters (Open)

Bridge of ECS Righteous Truth - 1st Fleet of Faithful Intent, Edge of Ecumene Space

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“Admiral, a single fighter has entered the Fleet’s defensive perimeter.”

Talaran walked up to the screen, and watched the tiny incoming blip on the bridge officer’s monitor as it drew closer.

“Is that our guest?”

There was silence for a few seconds as the officer verified the incoming data, before he turned to look back at the Admiral with a affirming nod.

“Confirmed. It’s a Resurrectionist craft, and its transmitting the encoded greeting specified in our message.”

“Very well. Escort the craft to Hanger 43B. I’ll greet the ambassador myself.”

“Yes sir.”

As Talaran walked off the bridge, the bridge officer began hailing the craft, and opened a direct communication line.

“Welcome to Ecumene 1st Carrier Fleet Faithful Intent, ambassador. Escort fighters will direct you to the waiting hanger onboard the Carrier Righteous Truth. The Lord Admiral is awaiting you.”

Within a short time, the promised fighter escort arrived and began to escort the craft towards the Fleet. Despite the immensity of the seven Heavy Carriers within the fleet, which dwarfed the great many smaller corvette class ships that swarmed around them, the carriers themselves seemed considerably smaller than the Flagship Carrier Righteous Truth that lay at the fleet’s center. As the pride of The Ecumene navy, it was a veritable mobile command platform and it was towards it that the fighters directed the Ambassador’s ship.

Once the craft had successfully docked within the appropriate hanger and the ambassador exited, a small group which had been awaiting his arrival stepped forward. The group consisted only of Talaran himself along with two Seraphim Honor Guards and the lone High Orionic Priest, Raynald. Although there was none of the fanfare or elaborate ceremony which might accompany an official state visit, the fact that this was anything but “official” necessitated the simplicity of the greeting.

They were all still quite elaborately dressed however. With the High Priest being considerably more so, garbed as he was in flowing red and white robes, decorative helm, and carrying a staff that was the symbol of his authority. Talaran was considerably more moderately dressed in martial aspect, with a long buttoned side cape atop a well pressed white naval uniform. The two Seraphim guards were dressed in full combat gear, and carried their railgun rifles slung around their shoulders.

“Welcome aboard the Righteous Truth ambassador. I am Admiral Talaran Victrix, commander of this Fleet and High Lord of The Ecumene Navy. The individual next to me is his holiness Raynald Dagenais, High Priest of Orion.”

“I’m glad to see our message came through,” the High Priest, Raynald gave a slight bow, his elaborate vestments flowing around him as he did so, “On behalf of Orion’s disciples and the Archpriestess, I welcome you as well. If you would be so kind as to follow us.”

Raynald led the way as the Admiral walked beside the ambassador and the two guards through the winding corridors of the massive ship. The High Priest’s staff resonated across the smooth floors and echoed around them as he struck the floor while he walked. After traveling for some time, the group came to a comfortable looking antechamber, well furnished, luxurious, and quite obviously for receiving guests and dignitaries.

“Wait outside,” Talaran commanded the guards, who nodded in reply and sharply spun around with martial flare to stand guard outside the sliding door. Talaran sat first in one of the cushioned sheets, followed by the High Priest.

“We can speak here for a time, afterwards you can proceed on into the sanctuary,” Raynald said, and he motioned towards a pair of large elaborately engraved doors on the opposite end of the room that bore artistic depictions of Orion’s legendary life, “What happens in there then is between you and The Conclave.”

As if on cue, an android servitor emerged from a sideroom, carry a tray of various fruits and candied delights to be offered to the waiting trio. Gently the tray was set before them, and Talaran plucked out a particularly delicious looking fruit. Raynald refrained, and waved his hand to indicate that he would not have any.

“Your war with the Scorpines, it’s become quite the talk of the Coalition membership. How do your people fare against those….threats?” Raynald asked, his voice tinged with unmistakable disgust as he said the word ‘Scorpine’ almost as if he was repulsed at having to pronounce it.

"We've heard scattered reports that you're mounting a successful counter-offensive. Although I imagine it may be some time before the Scorpines are broken completely," Talaran added, as he withdrew a small candied confection from the plate and popped it into his mouth, "We've received communications from various Scorpine military sources requesting to know why the Fleet is stationed so close to their territory. We've provided the same response each time: the Fleet of Faithful Intent is here to ensure that the war does not spill over into the Ecumene. Nothing more. A deterrent if you will. I'm not surprised they are uncomfortable however, considering the reputation of this fleet amongst non-human elements of the galaxy."

The servitor returned once more and brought a second tray, containing a varied number of liquid refreshments. Talaran gladly accepted one and took a sip of the blue tinged beverage: a type of fruited drink that was popular amongst the Ecumene's upper class.

"The Admiral had previously been assigned to the Cygnus V system," Raynald explained, "The fleet was deployed to crush the resistance against humanity there, and ensure it fell once again back into the rule of the heirs of Orion's Mantle. The treachery of the Alien can indeed be a devious prospect. Thankfully, the full firepower of the fleet's carriers made them see the error of their ways."

"A philosophical question Ambassador, if you would be so kind as to indulge me while we wait for your audience to begin," Raynald continued, "Where do you see the path of humanity's destiny leading? What is our purpose here now and throughout these long years of our existence? From the mists of our earliest days, through the misguided domination of the Empire, to now: where is our path taking us?"

Dark Matters (Open)

Ecumene of Holy Orion, Onboard ECS Righteous Truth , 1st Fleet of Faithful Intent - Edge of Ecumene Space

The Fleet of Faithful Intent came out of warp on the edge of the Scorpine's territory. As it entered back into real space, Admiral Talaran gave the command for the fleet to come to a full halt and hold its current position, as The Conclave had requested. His orders hadn't yet specified what exactly the Fleet's purpose here was other than that he knew that The Conclave was keeping the command close to the chest.

That being said, his orders had also included another directive, one which he knew that, while not the entire reason for the fleet's presence, would undoubtedly be part of it: the transmission of an encrypted message. Nobody but he and a few of his select officers, and The Conclave itself of course, knew its contents currently. But knowing what it contained, he could understand why the Conclave would choose to be secretive about this entire operation.

Admiral Talaran stepped out onto the bridge, only small number of bridge officers were present currently, the rest had been given leave for a time with the expectation that the fleet would be out of action for the moment. Of course, the only bridge officers remaining who those privy to transmission, albeit not to the contents itself. However, Talaran could trust them not to speak on its existence, or to whom the message was being directed.

"Everything is ready Admiral, long-range communication is open and encryption is complete. We're ready to begin the transmission at any time."

Talaran nodded, "Proceed."

"Yes sir."

With the press of a button, the message began its transmission. And Talaran sighed, both with apprehension, and with relief in knowing that for the time being it was out of his hands. He'd fulfilled The Conclave's request. Now all he needed to do was hold position and await a response.

"Let's hope we're being received well enough..."

The message was short, purposefully so, but the ambiguity was intended.

SJADKFJHKSHKFHHD82KK8828KHJHSU82392030SJFHJSF298
192349HGGYGH77868GGFTFTYG334FDRIGKGU87gGGKKKY562
-------------Begin Decryption-------------------
-------------Decryption Complete----------------
-------------Displaying Message-----------------
Leadership of [the Economic Council],
Most Holy Ecumene requesting [delegate], safe
conduct assured. [Transmitting coordinates].
231756..334234..342167..413434..562454..454625.3
[Message repeats]
------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------

"Transmission complete sir," The bridge officer replied.

"Open a channel to Orion Prime, contact the Archpriestess and inform her that we're awaiting response. If any Scorpine attempt to hail the fleet, provide the prearranged response, and warn that any encroachment on Ecumene territory is grounds for a declaration of war. Fire a warning shot if they become belligerent." Talaran replied swiftly, "That is the order given to me by the Conclave. I have nothing more than that for now."

"By your command Admiral."

War Never Changes

Mags and William Black, Logan Airport Terminal, Boston

“What exactly are we doing in here Mags?” The ire coming from Mag’s brother, William, was clear as he carefully stepped around a broken piece of fallen masonry that had collapse out onto the hallway they were traveling through.

“You damn well know why William.”

“I know 'why', what I want to know is your reasoning. You accepted some strangers invitation that took us halfway across The Commonwealth on a lark? You know how this is going to look with the other bosses right? Fuck I don’t even want to think what Nisha might get up to with us gone.”

“Lizzie can handle our affairs back in Nuka World well enough. I have complete trust in her.” Mags replied, as she turned back to her brother, “As for my reasoning...the invitation was very persuasive. That’s all I’ll say.”

“Any idea what we might be up against at least?”

“No...but I have a hunch. And If I’m right, we’re either be dead or set for life.”

William scoffed but knew that further argument with his sister was pointless. She’d made up her mind. He looked back on the squad of Operator goons he had with him and motioned ahead to two of them, signalling that they should take point going forward.

As they continued walking down the darkened hallway of the old Logan airport terminal, William started to get more and more uneasy. Something about the location was getting to him.

“Gives me the fuckin’ creeps,” He said, as he stared into the darkness of a vacant room, “Didn’t this place used to be where those Brotherhood assholes holed up?”

“Used to be. You haven’t seen the tarmac yet have you?”

“No. Why?”

“Its a mess out there with the wreckage of their airship. And I don’t think it's a coincidence we were sent here of all places either. Its a message.”

“Message for wh---” William stopped mid-sentence and stared down the hallway, “Shit what was that? Did you hear that?”

The Operator group was immediately on guard at the sound of footsteps echoing around them: heavy footfalls of what sounded like armored boots. The steps grew louder until it felt like they were right on top of them.

Suddenly a blinding light shone right in their faces, several in fact, and the Operators found themselves staring down the barrels of a number of guns,

“Raider scum bags. Is this some kind of joke?” A gruff voice called out from beyond the row of lights, “Are you the ones who sent that message? I’ll give you thirty seconds to explain before we start blowing your heads off.

William’s eyes adjusted quickly and he realized that the lights were coming from headlamps, the source of which were a number of heavy combat helmets belonging to a squad of well armed, armored, and clearly pissed off, Gunners.

“I should ask you the same question. We received a message as well inviting us here. But if you received one as well I would assume that you aren’t our hosts.”

“More like your undertakers,” The lead Gunner sneered, “I’m Lieutenant Markus Kilhorn with the Gunners. Won’t bother with introductions beyond that because if you’re not the ones we’re meeting, then we’ll just be shooting you,” he said flatly, “Have a nice day.”

“Idiot. If someone sent the message to both of us, do you really think they want us to blow each other away in this fucking hallway? Obviously they have something planned.” Mags snapped back.

“Well if I don’t get an explanation in the next minute, I’m going to assume this is a trap. So someone, somewhere, better tell me just what the hell is going on here!”

“Hello.”

The sudden unexpected voice caused both the Operator and Gunner teams to immediately turn to the direction of the sound. Standing before them was a metal skeleton.

“Jesus fucking christ. What the hell?” The Lieutenant yelled, “Where did this thing come from?”

Mags and William both had the same question, wondering if perhaps the thing had been following them this entire time, or had just stepped out of the shadows.

“Welcome. We’re glad that you both decided to travel the long distance to Logan Airport. We can assure you that you will not be dissapointed. On behalf of The Institute, I thank you. If you would please follow me now.”

Both the Gunners and the Operators turned pale at the mention, Mags was the only one who seemed satisfied with herself,

“The Institute? What the hell?” One of the gunners said aloud.

“The fucking boogeymen?”

“I think we should follow it,” Mags pointed as the Synth began to walk away down the hallway, “We came this far. Might as well see what they have to say.”

Hesitantly, both the Gunners and Operators followed the Synth, more out of curiosity than anything. A short distance down the dark hallway and the Synth stopped sharply before a metal door,

“Please enter. Before you do however, I must ask that you disarm and leave your weapons behind.”

“We’ll comply,” Mags gave her brother a stern gaze, knowing full well he’d be the one to object. William sighed heavily but signaled his agreement with a nod of his head.

“Like hell we will. Fuck that.” Kilhorn raged, “I’m not giving you jack squat.”

“Please do not argue. This is for everyone’s safety. Your weapons will be returned to you after the meeting is concluded.” The Synth replied in its emotionless mechanical voice.

“And I say again, fuck that.”

“Drop your weapons. Now.”

A far more stern voice answered the Gunner Lieutenant this time, and Kilhorn found himself staring at an Institute laser pistol pointed in his face. A Courser was standing before him, and several more suddenly appeared as they deactivated their stealth fields. The Gunners raised their hands in surrender.

“Fine. We’ll play along, but I warn you if this is a trap…”

“You’ll do what exactly, surface-dweller?”

Kilhorn grimaced but said nothing.

“Thank you, you may proceed,” The Synth then opened the door and welcomed the two groups inside. To the shock of everyone, the room was well-lit, moderately well furnished, and had a table and a number of chairs on either side. More shockingly, however, was the fact that a ghoul in a suit sat at the head of the table. A glass of some sort of alcohol clutched in one hand and a smoke in the other.

“Took you lot long enough. I was beginning to think you’d stood me up.” The ghoul quipped.

“I didn’t realize The Institute employed ghouls…” Mags replied as she took a seat at the table, the others, following her lead, sat down as well.

“I’m a bit of an exception. Names Desmond Lockheart. Former MI6 operative for His Majesty's government, now I’m working with Institute SRB. Bit a favor for an old pal of mine. Don’t expect any of you to really understand what all that means, but all you need to know is that I’m the one you’ll be going through for any communication with The Institute from here on out. Before we get started, anyone want something to drink? Have the tin-can over there bring it to you if you want something. No? Good then lets get started.”

“Just why did The Institute contact us of all things. That’s what I would like to know,” Lieutenant Kilhorn said.

“To offer you both a contract. Simple as that. The Institute needs some extra muscle on the surface. Lot of bad things going on above ground that they’re keen on working with some of the stronger elements of The Commonwealth. You Gunners, from what I understand, are probably the most well organized merc group on the eastern seaboard. Might be even better than Talon Co. The Operators on the other hand caught their attention for capturing and holding Nuka World. Got a good strong position there.”

“Not as strong as we’d like, personally, the Operators are only one of three gangs controlling the park in any case. So I’d like to inquire why the Pack and The Disciples were not invited as well.” Mags stated.

“Because you were the only ones worth working with, frankly speaking, and seemed at least moderately civilized. The Institute felt they could at least work with you on fair terms.”

“So you’re cutting the other gangs out? That won’t go over well you know.”

“Not so much cutting them out, as eliminating them entirely love.” Desmond smiled.

“Pardon?”

“The Institute will soon be imposing more stricter control over The Commonwealth itself. Nuka World included. Raiders like the Disciples and The Pack will soon be a thing of the past. You can either be a part of that future, or you can be eliminated with them. But you understood that when you came to this meeting, right?”

Mags couldn’t help but give a smile, “Hmm. Perhaps I did.”

“So that’s your plan Mags? Throw in with The Institute and take control of Nuka World ourselves?” William interrupted.

“Do you have an issue with that dear brother?”

William was silent for a few moments, before he gave his reply, “Nisha is mine. That murderous bitch has killed one too many Operators and thought she could get away with it.”

“Whatever you like. Not like I or The Director give two shits how you handle your little tribal tiff. So long as you lot keep yourselves in check. A Courser team will back you up during the coup. Should be more than enough. Afterwards you can expand your gang and take over the entire park if you wish. Oh, aside from a few areas that The Institute has identified as points of interest. Nothing to concern yourself over, the rest will be yours to play around in to your heart's content.”

“A fair offer, and I suppose we don’t have much choice either way.”

“No you don’t. As for you,” Desmond pointed to the Gunner team, “You can tell your Captain back at Gunner HQ that he answers to me now. You’ve been running around here like hooligans for too long. You’ve got the discipline and trappings of a military, I’ll give you that, but no organization and no focus. That changes.”

“Or we can fight you, how about that? The Gunners have more than enough firepower to give The Institute a run for their money,” Lt. Kilhorn replied.

“Do they? The last group that thought that was called The Brotherhood of fuckin’ Steel. They flew in a giant armored airship, a fleet of vertibirds, and a entire goddamn army of Power Armored soldiers. If you want to go see the results of that expedition, hang a left out onto the tarmac when you leave.”

“The Captain will never agree to it. I guarantee you that.”

“Oh I think he will. If I recall, he was there when a single Courser blew through an entire company of Gunners without hardly breaking a sweat. Greentech Genetics? Right? He knows better than most that you’ve got two choices, either you can work with us and you’ll never need another contract again, or don’t, and The Institute will eliminate you with extreme fuckin’ prejudice.”

“Say we agree to these terms, both of us, what exactly do they need us to do?” Mags asked.

“The Institute might require some non-Institute elements to assist us in the future. People they can rely on that aren’t Synths. You’ll be that element, and you’ll support The Institute’s efforts to take full control of The Commonwealth. I don’t think I need to explain to you why doing so will be much more beneficial and lucrative for both of you in the long run.”

“But why now? What prompted this.”

Desmond sat back in his chair, taking a few puffs on his cigarette, “Lets just say the world’s a much bigger place than The Institute thought. And that there are some nasty oddball factions out there. Nasty oddballs with goddamn battalions of troops at their command. Ever heard of The Legion? The NCR? The Midwestern Brotherhood? The Free Commonwealth? The Cult? Neither had I. But they’re carving up the continent like a carrot cake.”

“So we’re the muscle to The Institute’s brain, is that it?” William smirked.

“No, those blokes in the black armored coats holding the fucking energy rifles are the muscle,” Desmond pointed to the Coursers standing guard, “You’re more like the appendix. Not worth the trouble of removing if you can help it, and might still serve a purpose if its cooperative. Understand?”

“Hmm…..understood.”

Dark Matters (Open)

Ecumene of Holy Orion - Onboard ECS Righteous Truth , 1st Fleet of Faithful Intent

"You have my formal surrender Admiral. I'm putting myself and my soldiers at your mercy." The alien Cygnus V captain stood before Admiral Talaran in the hanger bay of the Righteous Truth, after their ship had been captured and the crew spirited away to Ecumene's flagship. She offered her sole remaining weapon, a non-lethal energy pistol as a token of surrender in customary fashion. The weapon was hardly anything worth offering or even valuable at all, but it was a symbolic gesture, and Talaran recognized it as such.

Talaran took the weapon and nodded to her, "And I formally accept your surrender. You and your crew will be treated fairly and according to Ecumene prisoner of war protocol."

"Even the non-humans?" The captain asked, a grimace crossing her face.

"Yes...they'll be processed and tagged. But no further harm will come to them..or you," Talaran replied, knowing full well how she had to feel as a non-human Laaadaruuan asking that question. He wasn't lying, but he wasn't explaining the full truth either. She didn't need to know the details of how the Ecumene processed alien prisoners of war. He would be able to spare her from that at least for now.

"Thank you Admiral." She gave a sigh of what could almost be called relief. But it was clearly tinged with anxiety.

Talaran gave a nod to his men and indicated that the crew should be taken to the brig for holding until the priests were ready to begin. As he watched them leave, a message came through on the HUD of his visor.

"Admiral. Your presence is requested in the Sanctuary. High-Priest Raynald says its urgent."

It was Talaran's turn now to give a heavy sigh, "I'll be right there. Did he indicate what this was about?"

"No sir. Only that you shouldn't tarry."

"Very well."

-----

Minutes later and Talaran, alone, walked into the hallowed Sanctuary of the Righteous Truth, an inner sanctum at the center of the massive ship that was normally reserved only for elite Orionic Priests. It was intended to be a place of prayer, meditation, and introspection. The large room was dimly lit with low artificial light, and its smooth sloping walls gave no impression of elaborate decoration. There were no statues, paintings, or furniture of any kind. The only thing of note was a raised circular dais at its center, where Talaran could see the figure of High-Priest Raynald standing. He approached slowly, and as he walked up the steps to the dais, Raynald turned to meet him.

"I'll leave you alone then." He said simply, showing no signs of arrogance that he'd displayed previously. In fact, he seemed almost a bit unnerved himself.

Confused Talaran watched him descend the steps and then leave out the sanctuary door, the door hissing to a close behind him. As Talaran looked around confused, he suddenly saw the holographic images of seven figures appear around him in a circle, seated on floating chairs. A moment's recognition was all it took, and Talaran fell to his knees.

"Blessed Elders, forgive my impertinence."

The Priests now presenting themselves as holograms were none other than the Conclave. The highest ranking priests of Orion and leaders of The Ecumene. Six of them had their faces obscured by long hoods, but one did not. The Archpriestess of Orion herself, Vayla Dretheen. It was she who spoke first.

"Rise Admiral, there is no need for such shame. You've done well here to bring this planet into the fold of our Holy Ecumene. High Priest Raynald informed me that you acted decisively and without fear in the face of an unexpected enemy attack, and that your losses were minimal. Truly you are favored by Lord Orion. My trust in you is not misplaced."

"I don't deserved such praise from you Archpriestess. I only ask how I might serve The Ecumene further. What do you request of me?"

"The Resurrectionist War with the Scorpines progresses at an alarmingly fast pace," Another of the holographic priests began to speak, "The Martians seek to use the Coalition to intercede on the Scorpine's behalf and supply aid to their forces in an attempt to turn the tide."

Another priest continued, the Conclave priests appeared to be almost taking turns speaking, each one fishing the others thoughts as if they were a single person, "This places The Ecumene in a complicated situation. As official members of the Coalition, we are bound to supply aid when requested and it would look ill if we did not show unity in this matter. However..."

"A Scorpine victory itself is unacceptable. For such non-humans abominations to hold Dominion over a human civilization is the pinnacle of heresy. The Resurrectionists, profane as they may be, at least understand this part of Orion's teachings. An alien's place is beneath the ones who hold The Mantle of Orion. They cannot be allowed to win on such terms."

"Equally so, a complete Resurrectionist victory would be equally unwelcome. To allow their heresy to grow and flourish to threaten our Ecumene is...unwise."

Talaran had thus far been listening quietly with head bowed as the Conclave priests explained the situation, but he had a feeling he knew where this conversation was going. He lifted his head and spoke,

"And so what is to be done then?"

The Archpriestess herself gave the final summation of the plan,

"We will be enlisting certain...unsavory elements, in the galaxy to assist us in our efforts to prolong the war as much as possible. The longer the war continues, the greater the benefit to our Ecumene. Within the Coalition, we will express full support to the Martian's proposal. However, should the Scorpines begin to gain the upper hand, we will begin to supply the Resurrectionist forces with intelligence and munitions through independent channels and criminal syndicate elements that will make it very difficult to trace back to us directly. While also intercepting Coalition supply runs where possible."

"I see...it is not my place to question The Conclave's will, but is this not a dangerous proposition. Should the other Coalition members suspect this sabotage..."

"The Coalition is a useful tool. But its usefulness will eventually come to an end. Without Orion's guidance it cannot last. We must secure The Ecumene's future as humanity's shepherds into a new age. One that will be blessed by Orion's holy teachings as we carry out his Great Plan."

"Of course my lady. I did not intend to question Orion's divine plan. What then do you ask of me?"

"Ready the Fleet of Faithful Intent Admiral. You are ordered to move to the edge of Ecumene space near our border with the Scorpines."

"But surely the Scorpines may see that as an act of aggression and assume we are preparing to attack to aid The Resurrectionist forces?"

"Your official role is to act as a deterrent to ensure that the fighting does not spill over into Ecumene controlled space. The Ecumene wishes for nothing more than to secure its border and protect its people. A perfectly reasonable action. Once Cygnus V is pacified, you are to depart at once. The 3rd Fleet of Enlightened Justice will assume martial control of the system. " Archpriestess Vayla replied.

"Very well. I'll order the fleet to begin preparations immediately."

"See to your expedience Admiral. Orion be with you."

With that, the holographic projections dissipated, and Talaran was left alone in the darkened Sanctuary. The lingering question in his mind was how complicated this war was about to become.

Dark Matters (Open)

Ecumene of Holy Orion - Onboard ECS Righteous Truth , 1st Fleet of Faithful Intent

A shadow cast itself over the planet below as the massive Heavy Carrier Righteous Truth, pride of the Ecumene Navy, loomed in low orbit overhead. Stationed within the 1st Fleet of Faithful Intent alongside seven other Heavy Carriers and dozens of smaller Ecumene Corvettes, the Righteous Truth served as the fleet’s flagship and a mobile command center for Ecumene High Command, particularly the elite priests of The Conclave, whenever they left the Ecumene’s homeworld: Orion Prime.

The bridge of the Righteous Truth was sprawling, with various consoles and terminals manned by a small army of pilots. At the forefront of the bridge stood Admiral-Lord Talaran, Commander of The Ecumene Navy and the 1st Fleet silently observing the planet below. Since arriving in orbit above the Planet Cygnus V, the 1st Fleet had maintained a threatening stance, but not an outright hostile one. Even without explicit warning, the intent was clear and it was well known what an Ecumene Carrier group was capable of when it came to orbital bombardment. Negotiations had already been opened between Cygnus and the Ecumene, and a delegation of the planet’s representative had been welcomed onboard only hours before to meet with one of The Ecumene’s High Priests. Meeting with a member of The Conclave was out of the question for such a relatively minor negotiation, and so a High Priest had been sent in their stead who was high enough ranked to ensure the delegation would not be insulted.

Lord Talaran shifted easily on the bridge, not out of nervousness or apprehension but out of general boredom. The bureaucratic intricacies of the Priesthood of Orion never interested him. His concern, first and foremost, was leading his fleet in battle. Should negotiations fail he would be given the word to start the assault and that was what he was waiting for. He would not have to wait long.

The doors to the bridge behind him slid open with a soft hiss and High-Priest Raynald stepped inside, the elderly priest leaned heavily on his sacred staff of office and was trailing a long tail of fine robes behind him.

“And?” Was all Talaran said. The question was implicit.

“They agreed to all of our terms.”

“Good. And so what are...”

“Except one,” The High Priest interrupted, “I tried deeply to explain how the faith of Orion was incompatible with their primitive social structure and how The Mantle of Orion could only be held by humanity as our divinely ordained duty and right. They were unconvinced.”

“How unfortunate,” Talaran said flatly, not even attempting to hide his disinterest.

“Indeed. I suspect that the non-human elements of the planet are too ingrained into its power structure. On worlds with a predominantly human population, this is never an issue. We will have to liberate them from their Alien oppressors.”

“I see.”

“Lord Talaran, Cygnus V planetary defense fleet is inbound.” One of the bridge pilots stated.

Talaran turned back towards the bridge and could see the rapidly approaching hostile fleet in the distance, “That was quick,” He murmured, “If I didn’t know any better, I’d say they may have been using the negotiations to stall for time….”

The High Priest simply shrugged, “Perhaps. Such is the treacherous nature of the non-human.”

Talaran sighed and then began walking down towards the front of the bridge, as he did so, he relayed his commands, “All Carriers open fire, target lead vessels. Corvette strike groups Alpha through Delta move to intercept. Fighters and assault craft standby for boarding actions.”

“Yes sir.”

“Strange, it's almost like you were expecting this Lord Talaran,” The High-Priest said, and while his face was covered with his ornate mask, it wasn’t hard to discern that he was probably grinning, “Have you so little faith in our diplomacy?”

Talaran ignored the comment and continued focusing on the fight at hand. At his word, the Ecumene Heavy Carriers began opening up with their forward guns. As might be expected, the bombardment was devastating as it tore through the enemy fleet. The targeted forward vessels were almost immediately destroyed by the Heavy Carrier’s firepower but the smaller light frigates continued their push towards the Ecumene’s battlegroup unfazed in an almost suicidal gambit. The Corvettes as per the battle plan moved to intercept these vessels. The Corvettes were far more suited to this close ship-to-ship action than the Carriers were, and quickly disabled or dispatched the majority of the enemy ships. The few remaining halted their advance, knowing that further resistance was wasteful at this point. Talaran had been wondering if perhaps there was a hidden objective to this ferocious surprise attack, which is why he’d kept the majority of the Corvette groups in reserve, but it seems there had not been. It had simply been the last ditch effort of a strong people unwilling to accept surrender without a fight.

“Admiral, incoming communication from one of the Cygnus ships.”

Talaran nodded and looked up at the holographic projection that appeared on the center of the bridge. The image shown was that of a blue-tinged humanoid female with long wisps of tentacle-like appendages where normally might be human hair.

A Laaadaruuan perhaps? Talaran wondered, Or perhaps an offshoot species? Difficult to say.

“We surrender,” The alien captain began, “You can cease your attacks. We’ll offer no more resistance.”

“I accept your surrender,” Talaran replied politely, “Stand down and have your crews prepare for boarding. I will dispatch boarding parties to all remaining vessels to accept your surrender in person and to disarm combatants.”

“Very well,” the captain replied, and with a slight bow, she ended the communication leaving Talaran to turn back to the High-Priest.

“Send for my guard,” Talaran ordered one of his assistants who was awaiting instructions nearby, “I’ll be meeting with the fleet commander.”

“An expected outcome. Pitiful resistance really, “When will these lesser lifeforms learn that humanity’s place is to act as guides and to lead them to the fulfillment of Orion’s Great Plan? So much violence could be avoided if this was just accepted.”

“They fought valiantly,” Talaran replied matter-of-factly to the High-Priest, “In the face of ignoble defeat, they chose to fight with the slim chance of victory rather than allow themselves to be subdued. I can respect that, even admire it.”

“You always did have strange eccentricities Admiral-Lord Talaran. Were it not for the exceptional favor you’ve curried with the Archpriestess and your exemplary service to the Ecumene, I might wonder if you were a heretic.”

“Respecting the tenacity of a well-fought adversary isn’t heresy. It's a matter of honor.”

“Be sure that respect does not morph into something more….radical.” The High-Priest gave a final warning as Talaran moved to step-off the bridge.

“Noted my lord Priest,” Talaran said as the doors began to close. He barely contained his insolent tone. Technically a High-Priest of Raynald’s age and experience was above him in rank, but it went without saying that he disagreed with that assessment personally. He would never admit it openly, but there were many times where he preferred to deal with enemy commanders, even non-human ones, rather than suffer through a meeting with one of Orion’s elite Priests. He imagined that this would be one of those times as well.

“Time to see if I’m correct…” he muttered to himself as he hit the button on the elevator to take him down to the hangar bays.

Dark Matters (Open)

The Ecumene of Holy Orion

The Ecumene of Holy Orion

(or “The Ecumene” for short)

Brief Description:

A highly militarized Theocratic State founded on the belief that Orion was neither wholly man, an avatar of the Spiritus, or a prophet, but a God. Controlled by a ruling class of Elite Priests, their zealous belief in the Divine Orion is only matched by their general disdain for Alien races, whom they view as unworthy of “The Mantle” of carrying out Orion’s divine plan.

Claim:

A swathe of space within the Orion Cygnus arm of the Galaxy, between the borders of Martian and Resurrectionist space. In their early stages, they were largely shunned and ignored by most in the Empire for their zealous beliefs and cultish personification of Orion. In the wake of the Imperial collapse however, they’ve managed to expand into their own as an established power, and have entered into a treaty with the Martian state to obtain control of Orion’s Tomb on Luna. Which is regarded as a sacred site to any and all faithful within The Ecumene.

Government:

The Ecumene is ruled top-down by the elite class of Orionic Priests.

Typical garb of a High Priest of Orion

The greatest of these Priests are known are the Elder Priests of Orion, and each of these seven Elder Priests form the governing body known as The Conclave, the de factor and de jure final executive, legislative, and judicial authority in The Eucumene. The leader of The Conclave is the Archpriest of Orion, who is considered a ‘first among equals” although in practice their opinion tends to weigh more than others when it comes to matters of policy and especially religion.

While The Conclave is the overall governing body of The Ecumene, lesser Priests of Orion run most of the day-to-day functions of its government. The vast number of men and women which make up this holy order are The Ecumene’s bureaucrats, ministers, and Governors for both spiritual and worldly affairs. Their ranks are as follows:

Archpriest of Orion - Spiritual Head of The Conclave
Eldar Orionic Priest - Serve on the The Conclave
High Priest of Orion - Generally serve as planetary or system governors.
Noble Priest - Serve as Planetary or Regional Governors of a particular world
Minor Priest of Orion - May control a city or a relatively high ranking planetary official
Protopriest of Orion - Generally high level bureaucrats
Initiate Priest - General low level bureaucrats or adjuncts to higher ranking priests
Neophyte Priest - The lowest level of a Priest of Orion, and generally handles local religious matters or minor political affairs

History:

The origins of The Ecumene (by its own accounts) lie shortly after the supposed life of the mythical figure of Orion, who according them was the perfect embodiment of humanity and a man who ascended to godhood. The Cult of Orion began as a small desident sect of Kinetic Divinists, and gradually spread throughout the Orionic Empire, mostly existing in small pockets of isolated followers. The Empire tolerated The Cult’s spread and turned a blind eye to their activities, mostly believing it to be little more than a harmless religious sect, albeit an odd one from their perspective.

However, that all changed when members of The Orion Cult attempted a coup against The Emperor, planning an assassination of the galactic leader as well as a number of high ranking religious and political officials. The coup attempt was blocked thanks to the swift reaction of the Imperial Military, but it was enough to warn Imperial officials that The Cult was far from just a harmless, divided sect. It was becoming far more organized and increasingly more zealous.

The Cult was therefore pushed to the fringes of Imperial space, and its practice, while not completely outlawed thanks to a few well placed bribes and threats, it was increasingly looked on as a fringe movement and certainly nothing a proper citizen of The Empire would involve themselves in. Meanwhile, The Cult did little to warrant the ire of Imperial forces again, and did their best to bide their time and generally stay out of political affairs in the galaxy. They focused their pursuits on building relations, slowly expanding their influence and gaining converts, and, secretly, building up military might.

With the fall of The Orionic Empire came the opportunity they’d been waiting a millennia for. The chaos and infighting caused by the collapse allowed The Cult the chance to expand into a proper state, and begin claiming large swathes of former Orionic space for their own. Claiming to be the true heirs of Orion in a way that the Empire could never have been, wading knee deep as Imperial officials were in their own HERESY, they quickly carved out territory in the Orion Cygnus arm of the galaxy, and followers of the religion who’d chafed under Imperial rule swiftly rallied to them.

Now known as The Ecumene of Holy Orion, the theocratic state desires both the supremacy of humanity as the true heirs of Orion and the only ones worthy to take up his Mantle, as well as the domination of their religion as the only (truly) rightful interpretation of the ancient faith passed down by humanity's forefathers.

Military:

The naval power of The Ecumene is one of its greatest strengths, and its massive heavy carriers are extremely adept at bombarding their targets from range with overwhelming firepower including high-powered kinetic orbital bombardments. When supported by smaller, but still formidable, Corvettes, an Ecumene fleet can be a daunting proposition to face.

Ecumene Heavy Carrier:

Ecumene Corvette Class:

Ecumene vessels engaged in orbital bombardment

Where its weakness in its naval power lies is in close ship-to-ship engagements, where its large and difficult to maneuver carriers are usually outperformed by lighter and swifter craft of lesser firepower. If an enemy fleet is allowed to close distance with an Ecumene carrier group, they are in a very real danger of being outflanked and picked apart.

To help counter this, typical Ecumene naval doctrine includes a heavy emphasis on boarding engagements whenever ship-to-ship combat arises that cannot be directly avoided. To this end, The Ecumene Navy utilizes a large number of armed transport ships and light fighters, deployed directly from their Carriers, which are intended to swiftly maneuver through the larger engagement and attempt to directly assault and board the offending vessels to take them down from the inside. In a sustained engagement, these craft are too lightly armored to be a direct threat themselves, but their intent is to slow, distract, and harass the enemy long enough for either the Carriers to escape, or for a boarding action to be made.

Ecumene Troop transports

Ecumene light fighters

Ground forces:

Examples of Ecumene Tanks and Vehicles

Running in direct opposition to the strengths of its navy, The Ecumene army typically excels at close quarters fighting, and many of its units are specialized to this task with short-range automatic weaponry and close-quarters specialized melee weapons.

Ecumene footsoldier

Ecumene “Knights”, close quarters melee specialists

The exception to this general favor to short-range fighting within its ground troops, is small numbers of Elite “Seraphim” units, which add a badly needed long-range component whenever it is necessary. A veteran unit of these Seraphims, admission to which is a proclamation of great praise, also serve as an Honor Guard to the The Conclave.

Ecumene “Seraphim”

Religion/Culture:

The religion of The Ecumene is based around the Divinity of Orion and the belief that bringing his ordained Great Plan for the Galaxy can only be achieved by humanity, who are the rightful heirs to Orion’s Mantle. Orion is quite literally revered as a god figure, and his ascendance to divinity marks the cornerstone of their religious dogma. As such, the Tomb of Orion (a necessarily empty building, Orion did not truly “die” after all, but still one of great ceremonial significance) is seen as one of the most Holy sites in The Ecumene’s faith, and pilgrims flock to Luna to visit the shrine daily. A mutually beneficial treaty with the Martian State is the only thing that makes this possible, as the Tomb itself lies well outside of Ecumene controlled space.

The Tomb of Orion, a prime example of Ecumene architecture

Demographics (Species):

Humanity makes up a large portion of The Ecumene’s population, and are the only species considered to be full-fledged citizens within its territory. Aliens, while not directly threatened by The Ecumene, are treated as second-class citizens in effect. Provided they freely submit to the will of Humanity and Orion’s Mantle, however, they can usually be expected to live long, if generally unfulfilled, lives. Those that show exceptional devotion may even be offered places of servitude to their human masters onboard Ecumene vessels as melee fighters and the “first wave” in any engagement. For there is no place more fitting for them to be, than giving their life in place of a human and therefore protecting those who would lead the galaxy to the fulfillment of Orion’s Great Plan.

Aside from Alien species living within Ecumene space, The Ecumene also makes use of a large number of androids to act as servants and laborers, as well as warriors if the need arises. They are not considered to have “True AI” and are not granted citizenship, but are actually more favored than Aliens when it comes to filling jobs and roles.

Ecumene Android Servitor

Characters:

Archpriestess Vayla Dretheen

Current Archpriest of Orion and leader of The Conclave and The Ecumene of Holy Orion.

Admiral-Lord Talaran Vitrix

High Lord of The Ecumene's navy (and thus its highest ranking military officer), and captain of The Ecumene's flagship carrier, the ECS Righteous Truth

Seraphim-Captain Valen

Captain of the Seraphim Honor Gaurd, who serve as the bodyguards of The Conclave and accompany its members wherever they go.

(more characters to be introduced as the RP progresses)

Relations:

The Ecumene, alongside the Martian state, secretly helps to fund the war efforts of the Scorpids against the Resurrectionist state. Their HERESY being considered so great, as to warrant the necessity of working with lower life forms to expunge it.

Martian State - A pact has been forged between The Ecumene and The Martian state to allow The Ecumene direct control of The Tomb of Orion on Luna. The Ecumene is permitted to have its own security on-site for protection, but the Martian state is generally expected to provide wider military support in the form of naval action should the need arise. The result of this treaty has been favorable to both states thus far.

Habitation: The Ecumene puts quite alot of effort into terraforming any planets settled by its citizenry, and where terraforming technology is not possible, establishing domed hermetically sealed environments where its people can live in safety and in relative comfort. Typical architecture of the Ecumene usually features towering thin spire-like buildings, domed structures reminiscent of earthly cathedrals and places of worship, and pristine sterile-like living spaces.



Of course, this level of comfort and refinement is only reserved for its human population. Lesser species live in packed, sometimes squalid conditions on the outskirts of Ecumene cities, and perform daily drudgery work for human overseers. They are, however, at least afforded a modicum of protection and, provided they do not step out of line, can expect to be mostly left alone.

War Never Changes

Legate Aurelius and Vulpes Inculta - SAC HQ Bunker

"The Cult itself has no positive message, a vision for the future, or really anything to offer the Wastelanders out there", Barnaky continued, "It relies on terror to compel obedience, and even obedience to their commands offer no guarantee of safety. Lift the Cult's boot off their necks, and offer them a future, and the civilians swing right into line....and they know better than anyone who among them needs killing."

“Well said my Lord,” The Legatus replied with a nod, “Very well then. We are agreed. No mercy to be shown to those who call themselves a disciple of that abomination, but those that have no love for their overlords will be treated fairly. I will relay that order to my Senior Centurions. I assure you my legionaries will have no issues with discipline on this campaign.”

“Unless there is something else we should discuss Lord Barnaky, I’m eager to begin. Once my Legions have assembled and are in good order, we’ll begin our push east. Vulpes..I leave you to confer with your equivalents within The Brotherhood about how best to fight this enemy. Should you learn anything, report it to me immediately.”

“Of course. I’ve already sent out some of my Frumentarii to begin scouting ahead for The Legion’s advance.”

“Well done Vulpes. I’m glad Caesar sent you along to support us. We can ask for no better man in The Legion for these tasks.”

“I’m at your disposal Legatus.” Vulpes bowed.

With that Aurelius turned back to Barnaky, “I’m told the Brotherhood salutes their members with the phrase ‘Ad Victoriam’ in the Legion’s own tongue. A fitting phrase I think, and more than rightfully used here. In The Legion, our rallying cry is ‘Legio Invicta’, meaning ‘Unconquered Legion’. A reminder that despite all it has gone through, the Legions of Caesar still stand. However, I will gladly offer a salute in The Brotherhood’s own manner.”

The Legate clasped his fist to his chest in a smart salute,

“Ad Victoriam, Lord Barnaky.”

Director Thomas Milburn, Cait, and Desmond Lockheart - Robotics Technology Facility RB-2851

Flanked by a pair of Gen-2 Synth Security Units, Thomas, Cait, and Desmond rode a large metal elevator as it descended deeper into the concrete lined earth. Desmond had been told little to nothing about where they were going, aside from the fact that he would need to see for himself. While he wasn’t exactly nervous, he was a bit on-edge, knowing full well what sort of horrors these old-world bunkers often held.

In lieu of his usual grimy pre-war wear, which he rarely had time or the inclination to clean in his line of work, he was now wearing a pressed dark grey suit and tie along with a matching overcoat. Underneath his suit jacket was a shoulder holster strapped to his torso, with a brand new .45 auto pistol clipped inside. He’d been offered his pick of The Institute’s energy guns, but preferred to continue using traditional weaponry. “Old reliables” he’d called them. So instead, Institute Facilities had outfitted him the .45 pistol along with the rest of his gear, and a few other goodies that would satisfy a pre-war intelligence agent. Thomas had referred to it as a “Welcome package”, a little something to wet his appetite now that he’d agreed to sign on with them.

Desmond turned to look around, and saw Thomas checking his watch with a bored look. Next to Thomas however, Desmond could see the look of the fiery Irish broad staring right at him with contempt.

“Can I help you with something ‘lass’ or do you always look at your coworkers that way?”

“Not a big fan of the stupid looking wig you’re wearin’. Lets just say you remind me of someone that I hate and leave it at that.”

Desmond caught a glimpse of a brief look of recognition on Thomas’s face, and he guessed that this was some sort of shared history between them.

“Oh...what happened to him then?” Desmond replied, keeping his tone as polite as he could in a way that he was certainly not used to.

“I put two slugs right in his heart.”

“We’re here,” Thomas suddenly interrupted, as the elevator came to a stop and the trio, along with their Synth escorts, stepped out.

The first impression Desmond immediately got was how large the area was, and the next was the sounds of industrial machines coming from what sounded like far deeper into the facility. As they approached what looked to be the glass-encased control him, Desmond looked down to see the engraving etched on the floor.

“United States Army Robotics...where the fuck are we Thomas? Back to old haunts?”

“Not exactly but still a rather interesting location. One we acquired some time back after it was discovered the facility was the source of a robot incursion into The Commonwealth.”

“Robot incursion?”

“Not important right now,” Thomas replied, as they began ascending the metal gangplank leading to the control room, “What is important, is how we can utilize it. But I’ll leave that to her.” He said, pointing into the control room.

Desmond hadn’t noticed her before, but now he could see the nervous looking black haired woman wearing an Institute robotics lab coat that might have looked a size or two too big for her.

“Hello Thomas...sorry….I mean...Director..sir.”

“And who’s this?” Desmond asked skeptically sizing her up.

“I-sabel….Cruz….Isabel Cruz….” Isabel stammered as she offered Desmond a nervous hand, “Sorry I’m still getting used to...people...in general.”

Desmond gave Thomas a ‘Who the hell is this broad?’ look before reaching out to meet Isabel’s handshake,

“Desmond Lockheart,” He replied.

“How do you do Mr. Lockheart.”

“Just Desmond is fine. I don’t exactly get worked up over formalities.”

“Desmond is now a specialized intelligence operative within The SRB. I’ve hired him on to assist us with some of the potential...problems we’ve been facing,” Thomas explained, “And Isabel…” he continued, turning to Desmond, “Is a pre-war Robotics Expert. She’s been tasked with overseeing this facility and our future plans concerning it.”

“Oh? And how’d she get that gig exactly?”

“It’s well...complicated. If you’re concerned about her expertise though, she’s more than qualified. In fact, she initially found this facility of her own accord and got it operational. It's taken her a bit of time to get acclimated to our way of doing things, but she’s got more knowledge about robotics and artificial intelligence than many of my CIT colleagues before the war.”

“Impressive…” Desmond said with genuine surprise. Just by looking at her he wouldn’t guessed she was capable of it.

Isabel blushed nervously and fiddled with her hair, “Oh you know...I’m not all that interesting. Just trying to do what I can to help…..since I kinda...didn’t start off on the right foot.”

“That’s putting it mildly…” Cait muttered, just loud enough for Desmond to hear. Thomas pretended not to notice. Desmond had to wonder what she could be referring to, but thought it best not to ask. Perhaps he’d broach the subject later.

“All in the past. What we need to do now is use this treasure trove of old world technology to our advantage. It’s a massive production facility, with enough industrial output to rival a city. From what we’ve been able to gather, it was a Robotics research facility specializing in the Robobrain Program, but its able to build and refit a variety of different Robco and General Atomics model military robots, and I suspect, much more.”

“Think I can guess where this is going…”

“We’re retooling the facility to produce some of the older synth models, Institute weapons and armaments, as well as modified versions of RobCo and General Atomics military bots...some of my own designs,” Isabel said as she shuffled her feet, “Eventually, we may even be able to start producing larger military hardware as well.”

“This facility’s production capacity matched with The Institute’s should be enough to start supplementing our woefully low military numbers,” Thomas explained, “ We can’t match the sheer military power of many of the states we’ve observed thus far, but hopefully we can at least muster enough strength to give them pause if it comes to it. The Institute’s never needed a particularly large security force, not until The Brotherhood arrived, and from what I understand Robotics was working round the clock during that time to produce more Synths. That can't be the case going forward.”

Desmond crossed his arms, “That’s all well and good, but why exactly am I here?”

“Aside from its uses in production, I want this location to be something of a backup facility, in case The Institute is ever threatened directly. To that end I’ve ordered quarters to be built and the facility expanded to include the necessities required to make it sustainable if we ever need to fall back. It’s well hidden and built to withstand even a direct nuclear strike so I imagine it should be well suited for that. Some SRB and Robotics personnel will be relocating here in the near future. I’ve furnished quarters for you as well.”

“Not exactly the Penthouse Suite, but it's probably better than what you’re used to,” Cait quipped.

“Hmmph. I’ll be the judge of that. About this army you’re building Thomas, I assume part of that had something to do with me as well?”

“Naturally,” Thomas nodded, “In addition to the Synths and the Robots from this facility, we’ll be attempting to work more closely with some human elements in The Commonwealth as well. I’ve already invited the necessary parties to a meeting. I’d like for you to be there. I want this to be cleared out before we start out operation to investigate The Cult.”

“Done. Suppose I can manage a bloody sit-down well enough. Where am I meeting them?”

“Not far from here….Logan Airport. Seemed like an appropriate location. The wreckage of the Prydwen should help them to understand where things stand.”

“Remind me, were you always a dick before the war or did the war change you that much? After 200 years my memory isn’t exactly tip top.” Desmond smirked.

“Between you and Robert….I certainly learned from the best,” Thomas replied as he slapped him on the back, “Don’t be late.”

“Say hi to Maggy for me will ya? Promise she won’t bite.” Cait smirked as she walked over to stand next to Thomas.

“Who?”

“You’ll see.”

Both then suddenly vanished in a flash of blue light, leaving Desmond behind alone with Isabel and the two Gen-2 security Synths.

“So...umm...should I...should I show you where you’ll be staying?”

The Dark Ages...but in Space! (Space NRP, name pending)

This looks interesting.

The Elder Scrolls: Stormcrown

Might be interested if this happens to get off the ground. I'm relatively new to Elder Scrolls RP though, but I know enough about the lore I think I can make it work.