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Fifteen

Meanwhile across the Forsaken Seas

Admiral Artan Bracius Duinhir sat in his command chair, pondering the messages that were presently streaming across his comm screens. The Electra newly released from the drydocks had been refitted with the newly captured D73-M Assault Mortar a Draconian fleet killer weapon. In fact the other four Floating Fortresses that were in tight formation around his flag fortress all sported two of the new weapons, along with two of the D71-L Shockwave Mortars, and two different variants of the D33 Assault cannon. On paper the weapons were far better than the standard Forsaken weapons the Electra used to use however this would be their first test. Artan quietly wondered if the price his spies had demanded for the weapons was worth it, soon hopefully he'd find out.

As the ships sailed away from his Island searching for targets the newly re painted hull sparkled in the morning light with his red pennant with its horned demonhead skull laying over a pair of crossed naval long swords, his standard during his years in the Republic Naval Forces. One of the many messages caused him to shot straight up in his chair from the relaxed position that he was seated in. “Quartermaster plot course for Michaels' Island, I'm sending you the coordnates.” Duinhir shouted into his communication relay which since the refit was directly built into the chair one of the many advancements the Electra now boasted, alongside the chair the ancient tried and true soundtube that went throught the ship's hull remained, just in case. “Captain, Make best speed to ordered destination.” Quickly changing frequency he contacted the radio room.

“Sparks, message to Michaels' Island.” Duinhir thought for a second. ”from Electra Actual.” Duinhir looked at the speed indictors and saw that the rumbling that was picking up under his feet was in response to the massive ship’s increasing speed. “Inhabitants of Michaels' Island, My assistance is offered to your recent position. Stop.” Artan looked out the windows of the Flag Bridge to see that the other four fortresses in his fleet were also increasing speed to keep formation with the Electra. “I am making best speed to your coordinates with five Floating Fortresses. Sign Admiral Artan B. Duinhir.” Artan released the activator of the handset before pressing it again.

“Sparks send a copy of that message to base with additional orders to launch the Terrorwolf. We may need to be prepared to defend home as well as help our neighbours.” Artan spun around in his chair to gave a preset hand signal to the officer of the deck.

“Aye aye, Admiral.” Came the reply to Artan’s command. “Message sent in Alliance code, sir.”

“Battle stations Battle stations, repeat all hands to battle stations, this is not a drill!” the Deck officer glanced over to the admiral who and changed his focus back to his monitors. “The formation is planning to enter battle, all departments make readiness reports to the officer of the deck on the flag bridge.” The young lieutenant hung up the intercom set. “Ship has been ordered to Battle Stations sir!”

“Understood Lieutenant Markcus, and thank you very much sir.” The admiral returned still with his back to the young officer, someone who was doing very well despite his young age.

Overhead claxons rang on all five warships. The five fortresses in amazement to their massive size altered course and came to their new heading making 23 knots across a violent but strange sea, their massive triangular hulls but a speak in the endless Forsaken Sea. Hours later the ships were approaching the coordinates of Michaels Island, smoke raised from the west side of the island however some of the buildings looked fine. As they closed on the island they sailed past the wreckage of a destroyed Battle Barge and a destroyed Leviathan. Artan ordered the wreckage searched however there was nothing. Glancing at his comms relay Artan noticed an imcoming message. "Electra Actual go ahead."

"Sir, Radio Room, interferance from the Island is blocking our communications. We have been unable to reach them on any standard Sector communications."

"Understood continue to try..." Artan ordered before another shout of warning came from across the Flag bridge.

"Emerging Draconian vessel from the Island Admiral!! It's massive sir even bigger than ourselves."

"Radio Room, flag bridge, send all known surrender orders to that ship." He knew the Draconian answer however some of the old ways were better kept, the Old Republic Guard would never have fired on an enemy without offering them a chance out. "Captain, prepare all ships for immediate hostilities." He said turning to his ship's captain, immediately Captain Andrea Stewart began to bark out orders across the bridge. She was young and energetic but extremely capable one of the senior first officers of his old Task Force 17 formation the Admiral had promoted her to his Flagship's command following the retiring of the ship's previous captain when Task Force 17 arrived at the old Paragumo Harbour, their most recent base of operations.

"Flag bridge, Radio Room, no response from enemy craft."

"Weapons firing from Draconian vessel multiple mortars and missiles." One of the observers called out.

"There's our answer" Andrea said quietly, Artan nodded is agreement as the first mortar rounds landed around the Electra. One struck the outermost Fortress on the port side leaving a nasty scar on its armour as it bounced off the explosive armour Artan had recently ordered installed.

"All ships form pattern Delta-Foxtrot-One." Andrea ordered Delta-Foxtrot-One was also known as the 'Death fan' by the ships crews and it was intended to minimise damage from mortars by spreading out the ships, it also allowed each ship to fire independantly when they were in the best position minimising orders needing to be passed.

More mortar fire was bombarding the five vessels however the single Draconian vessel had no chance against the five Fortresses driving down on it. The newly installed mortars on the Electra suddenly fired, for a moment taking Artan aback by the power and noise of the new weapons. He'd been around Diplomat and Peacemaker Mortar systems for nearly forty years ever since his first assignment in the Republic navy on an ancient Battle Barge from the old world. But never in all his experiances had he experianced anything like this. The shockwave of the new weapons even just firing was something to behold travelling through the ship the entire structure of the Electra shook as the weapons fired.

"Time to target, 3, 2, 1, impact" one of the weapons officers called out as the Mortars impacted on the Draconian vessel. The shock of the weapons firing was not the only shock of the new mortars the impact of the three Draconian tech mortars physically shook the Draconian ship rocking it side-to-side by the blasts first from the D-73M then from the paired D-71Ls. "Damage assessment... vessel is still intact Captain" the man said astonished looking at first Andrea then Duinhir. The Admiral sat back in his chair and nodded at his ship's commander.

"Then we do it the old fashioned way." She stated clearly for all to hear "helm, collision course with Draconian target, communications inform all other ships to continue bombardment at range Electra has point, Engines all ahead full." Andrea ordered in quickfire orders the massive Electra accelerated quickly the Mortar turrets continued to fire however their fire would be wasted as the ship closed the two forward D-33 Assault Cannons opened fire the guns acted like ripper cannons but with far more precise accuracy.

The Electra was within one hundred metres of the Draconian vessel when Andrea spoke again "Hard to Port!" She shouted Cutlass Missiles flew from the Draconian ship's missile launchers impacting on the Electra's starboard hull. The two forward D-33 weapons continued to tear into the Draconian vessel tearing into the ship's closed hull despite being this close the Draconians continued to remain within their vessel hidden from sight. As the Electra continued its turn mortar fire from the other four Fortresses impacted on the massive enemy ship, the shockwave from the multiple impacts was huge even the massive arrowheaded Electra felt the impact rocking the ship heavily onto its side. The waves around the ship lapped up ton its sloped dorsal hull for a moment Admiral Artan Bracius Duinhir thought his ship would capsize, his flagship from the Old Republic destroyed by weapons he ordered installed the irony made him smile.

Today was not that day the Electra's hull stabalized and continued to sail in a straight line. "Draconian vessel is breaking up." The observers reported there was a cheer around the bridge as the crew relived at their victory Andrea Stewart turned and looked at Duinhir who was still smiling.

"Happy Admiral?" She asked it had been a while since he was truely happy since his wife had taken some of the taskforce away from him during their disagreements. The two had patched things up and visited each other quite often but she still remained on her own island with her own people.

"Content Captain" he said keeping his thoughts to himself "the crew did very well, on all our ships." He said looking past Andrea to one of the monitors which still was focused on Michaels Island, the fires continued to rage. "Now we find out if there is anything further we can do while we are here." He said directing attention to the people they had come to help, revenge against the Draconians would come another day.

Seventeen

"The Draconian attack on Forsaken territory was a step too far for everyone even those we considered lost souls or those who prefered to work alone. It also showed the potential of the Forsaken people as people answered a simple call."

The massive Fortress Electra dwarfed every other ship within Michaels Island's dock, the ship barely fit at any of the piers. Many of the Island's buildings had been damaged however Senator Michaels had insisted the ally that had come to the island's aid be catered for as much as possible. By invitation Admiral Artan Barcius Duinhir and his ship's Captain Andrea Stewart had made landfall meeting with the Captain, Senator Michaels and Dr Rachel McManus. "We came as soon as your call went out." Duinhir explained "you were ready to try and organise this Sector against Blackheart it was the least I could offer in return." He said after the inital introductions "unfortunately my ships do not have the necessary parts to help you rebuild" he said indicating over their shoulders at the destroyed Sentinel defence system "how was your casualties?" He asked quietly.

"A lot lower than expected" the Captain admitted, "our people have drilled well" he said proudly.

"Every people has to do all to protect their own." Duinhir said "my fleet has some resources that we can use to rebuild, and we will stay in the bay for as long as you need us."

"Thank you Admiral however we have plenty of resources and our people are eager to rebuild" Rachel said politely.

"Instead we have other things to look for..." the Captain said coldly "revenge." He said quietly, the Admiral looked at the young man and raised his head slightly almost surprised by this reaction. "I intend to try and call for the Sector to come together and assault the Draconians." The Captain said determined.

"Assaulting the Draconians? No-one has ever done that." The Admiral said quietly, we have however spied on them." The Admiral revielled quietly, "in-fact I may have something for you shortly. For now I will return the Electra to the seas and my fleet. We will standguard as the others arrive."

"My Wolf Pack will be joining you out there Admiral, this is our home and we will defend it also I need to ensure that our mining fleets have a way to return home." The Admiral nodded but said little else almost as if he was a little distracted by what was going on the Captain and Rachel were both sure the man had withheld things but who didn't have secrets?

Almost as soon as the Electra had docked with the island the massive Fortress was back out in the bay with the other four vessels of the fleet, soon they were joined by John Cougar's Sea Wolf fleet renamed the Wolf Pack the five vessels were rapidly becoming the most elite unit in the whole island's naval forces. Even at just over 100 metres the fleet felt small compared to Duinhir's forces. "Just because these guys rode in and think they are our saviours we don't let them think they run this bay. This is our island so we make sure that ever ship entering our waters knows that. Ever ship friendly or not gets challeneged" John said as he briefed the other four Captains of his fleet. "The Captain has a big op planned we want to be part of that even if it's just an escort force for our big guns, lets make that happen people." He had said and so the five Sea Wolves were crossing the bay in a zig-zag pattern litterally challenging ever ship that crossed the horrizon. More often than not it was a verbal check over the ship before it was allowed passed however every now and then one of the Sea Wolves would sail across the incoming ships path placing them under the Thud Cannons as the check was completed.

After nearly three days of checks there were more than twenty fleets from various Islands some like Captains Rick, Buk or Alex War were well known and trusted allies others like Captain Bill Hawke, Seaking or Captain Phill were known by reputation alone some good some questionable. The Helmsmen Ensign Dean Rae looked over at the almost bored Captain Cougar looking over some paperwork, this ship was a combat craft with a battle hardened crew, and however important this duty did not compare to combat and it was easy to become distracted. "Captain another group of vessels approaching five Battle Barges." Rae announced "they appear to be flying the flag of a Captain Themistocles." The Ensign reported checking the flag record provided by Admiral Duinhir.

"A new one, but a familiar name, do we know why?" Cougar asked bringing his attention to the screens, he knew exactly why he knew the name but wanted to know how many of his crew had paid attention.

"The Mercenary fleet Captain?" Young Lieutenant Katrina Brown asked looking over at her commander "they came from a Captain named Themistocles?"

"Correct Lieutenant. Time to see why they left this man" Cougar said "simulated combat drill, target Themistocles ships, weapons officers confirm all weapons are safe but targetting data is feeding. Communications copy all last orders to Themistocles lead ship, inform them we want them to react accordingly we'll compare scores later." He ordered a string of orders around him the bridge crew began to react to his orders while outside all five Sea Wolf Destroyers began to maneouver independantly of each other, homing in on specific targets, while still maintaining formation on the lead ship.

Against them the five thiner longer battle barges were also begining to move independantly of each other training their mortars and missiles on Cougar's fleet. The faster and more agile Sea Wolves should by rights walk through the incoming Barges however stranger things had happened. "Captain, guns reporting our Thud Cannon hits are being registered by the Barges at lesser strength than estimates."

"Are we at extreme range?" Cougar questioned not understanding why his ship's hits were not being correctly recieved.

"Negative sir, optimal range by ships one, three and two, just outside optimal for four and five." the Gun control officer reported "all Wolves data matches we are hitting them sir."

"Damage Control, estimated damage on our systems?" Cougar asked looking over at the still quiet damage control console in a true combat situation it would likely be the busiest set of consoles on the entire bridge as the crew manning it diverted crewmen from other duties to their secondary damage control stations however in this situation they had nothing to do and so had not been relieved, not exactly an exact simulation however winning was often more important.

"Estimated damage to Sea Wolf One and Four terminal with next two solid hits. Sea Wolf Three, Two and Five all would be disabled or destroyed within 30 minutes depending on combat orders. We are losing Captain." The officer said quietly Cougar agreed he couldn't argue with the math his ships simply were taking more damage than their opponents.

"Right, next time maybe" he said as he watched his ships move avoiding the pretend enemy weapons fire or moving to engage with their own guns "KNOCK IT OFF" Cougar said in a clear voice manipultating the central desks comuter he communicated with Themistocles ships activating a small video screen. "Captain Themistocles, a good match your ships are obviously well built, thank you for your participation in this test." He said still smarting slightly at his simulated defeat.

"Quite alright Captain, in fact it is now Vice-Admiral Themisocles attache to Admiral Alan Alalcomenous, Fourth Order of the 17th Republican Navy. I will be representing both myself and my employer at this gathering." He said quietly the man was in his thirties with jet black hair and a very well trimmed almost styled moustache all Cougar could think about was one of those ancient film villans no-one could trust. "And captain my ships work well because they have enhanced Layered Armour specifically built to withstand your thud cannons. Not always the best approach however it counters your damage quiet well."

"Indeed we look..." Cougar began more diplomatically before being interupted.

"Captain!" The Sonar operator shouted out aloud "contact directly below us and rising, within torpedoe range!!" He warned Cougar immediately glanced at Themisocles who shook his head.

"Not with us Captain."

"Understood, all hands Battle Stations, Battles Stations, man your battle stations this is not a drill!" Cougar ordered his voice repeated through the ship's intercoms echoing off the ships Titanium bulkheads. The Wolf Pack returned to tight formation far more quickly than Themistocles' Barge fleet and were quickly stood at battle readiness as the Submarine stalking them raised from the deep. As the ship launched out of the ocean it was obvious to see that the ship was similar in design to the more common Predator-class Strike Submarine but was two or three times the size and it appeared to have a pair of gun turrets along its upper hull as well as the likely torpedoe tubes seen on a Predator under the hull.

"Hail incoming!" Communications called out before Cougar could order a challenge. The bridge speakers activated moments later "this is Sub-Master Angelique my little boats would also like to play at this little gathering." She said as four smaller Predator-class vessels also surfaced in tight formation with the larger craft, she had a strange accent new to Cougar but he couldn't be more impressed by her enterance and immediately felt taken by the new Submarine in front of him.

"Both Themistocles and Angelique are welcomed by Michaels Island. Please prepare delegations to go ashore for the Meeting of Captains, if you need further assistance please contact the island using standard Sector communications." Cougar said recovering from enterance of the two new arrivals. As their fleets began to move to berthings Cougar's Sea Wolves began to move back into patrol stations. Unseen due to the drill and the arrival of the new Submarine force another submarine had slipped past Cougar's ships view and sufaced between Admiral Duinhir's Fortress fleet. Everyone always hid something, it was the way of life on the Forsaken Sea.

Nineteen

“There we have it people, this Sector has chosen to stand or hang together.” Artan said as he stood up from the chair that was at the head of the tale. “Joshua, Task Force 17 is the spear head of our strike force in to Draconian territory.” Artan used the laser pointer to point at a Draconian base. “This base is our objective.” Artan turned towards the control center and dimmed the lights. “It is the home port for several large Draconian fleets that has been hitting targets in the area, and our Task Force has the duty of dishing out a helping of the course that they have given use for the past month.” Artan looked at the Commodores and Captains that sat around the large briefing room. “The Paragumo Defense Force will be deployed to work with other Islands forces, and we are not going to let him down.” Artan slowly start a stroll around the large table. “Our ships have been outfitted with the same technology that is being used against us, that is why we have been chosen as the spearhead.”  Artan stopped across from a dark skinned man. “Commodore Walshburn, your Sea Wolves Of Destroyer Group 12 will and Commodore Erickson's Sea Wolves of Destroyer Group 32 will be on post watching for reneged pirates that is known to be operating in the area. “Remember gentlemen this is the operational waters of The Pirate Dread, and he is known for hitting fleets that are mining.” Artan started his slow walk around the table again. “The fortresses of Task Force 8, 17, and 21 will have the job of taking on the Draconians.” Artan paused standing beside Commodore Joshua Halloway. “You are some of the finest commanders that I have ever had the pleasure of commanding.” Artan’s expression changed from the sober and fatherly appearance that he was known for to the stern faced Commander that he was feared for. “We will not lose this upcoming mission.” Artan trigger a switch on the desk.”May my standard be our motto for this fight, may it strike fear in to the hearts of the Draconian scourge, May it stand for the power that this alliance wields.” Artan slammed his fists down on the table.”No Surrender, No Retreat, and I say to you" Artan paused for a moment to look in all their eyes one by one. ”Death before Dishonor!”Artan then slammed his right fist in to the palm of his left hand. “Give no Draconian or pirate lord quarter and accept none.” Artan turned off the project and the lights came back on. “Strike the battle ensigns!” Artan snapped to attention. “The Paragumo Island Defend Force goes to war in the name of the Alliance!”

With that all of the officers under his command that was present stood up and saluted him yelling.”Death before Dishonor!”  The call echoed through the room and down the corridor other crewmen becan to call out the salute as they heard it quickly the three worlds echoed throughout the entire fleet.  Artan returned their salute turned and walked out of the briefing room with Joshua and the captains of the five Fortresses under Joshua’s command.

The twelve Floating Fortresses were divided into three fleets of four each supported by another ship of classified nature, while the ten Sea Wolf Destroyers were broken into two fleets.  All togethey they steamed across the endless oceans at around 23 knots, their target, the Draconian fortress outpost that dominated this region of the sector.  The massive facility visible from almost anywhere in the area, there were bases like this everywhere however breaking one would show the Draconians that no longer would the Forsaken forces stand by and allow them to be attacked. Artan’s job was to deal a preemptive strike that would cause as much damage as his three Fortress fleet could deal with the Sea Wolf Destroyers wracking havoc against any Draconian and pirate lords fleet that tried to stand in their way.

The five fleets from Paragumo Island made their way across the Forsaken Sea, following in the wake of another massive hurricane that was raging across the open sea, these storms were becoming more and more ferocious wrecking havoc for everyone in the region.  The course of the storm would take it close to the Draconian base that Artan’s spy had scouted and mapped out in as much detail as she could without being caught, while the storm caused damage to the Draconian equipment Artan's ships would slip into attack position, right under the noses of the local Draconians.

Artan’s thoughts kept brining him back to a Naval History lession from his old Republic days. Over one hundred years ago a great empire had used the same tactic to disguise its approach to a lone island that was the forward base of another great nation during one of the world's earliest World Wars. Then that great empire used aircraft to launch a sneak attack on the other nation’s naval base, destroying its fleet of mighty battleships while they were anchored in port, it was a sneak attack like no other in the history of man and had set up aircraft as the weapon of power for the entire planet.  During the last war that power had been lost, with little land and resources the technology to build and maintain the aircraft had gone the way of so many animals and become all but extinct, only the Mysterious Kixeye Corporation appeared to have maintained the knowlege although many of the Forsaken ships maintained scars of the lost technology.  Artan's own Fortresses had a hanger area for a helicopter and a huge lift to transport such craft to the deck however it lacked any hint of an aircraft of its own, the areas turned over to cargo bays used to transport loot captured from the Draconians or other troublesome pirates.

Land was not the only base for aircraft however, and during Artan's Republic days he had learned of ships modified and purposefully built to carry aircraft long lost in a world consumed by near endless conflict.  Now far from the Republic's fallen borders and a leader of men and women of his own Artan had dedicated his life to what he called "The Great Experiment."  Now looking out the windows of his Flagbridge he could see through the rain soaked windows and the tireless wipers that wished back and forth across the glass he could see her.  The Enterprise.

Named for a long fallen vessel of the same name but built like no other before her, the ship's two huge flat decks made of the strongest material that could be found rich in Zythium it had taken months to save the materials required. Built on a catamaran style hull she made her way through the storm ridden seas easily keeping pace with the other ships. Further behind in the formation her two sister ships stayed with the fleet, one the Hornet and the other the Yorktown, both named for ancient sea craft and like the Enterprise each was protected by four Floating Fortresses. This would be their grand test, and the announcement to the world that he had done the impossible, revived the aircraft carrier.

On her center hull she sported two of the mighty shockwave mortars that he was known to use and the other two weapons that were designed to be used against aircraft to defend the carrier. Now all Artan was waiting for was a clear sky so he could turn his fleet into the wind and reach flank speed, a requirement for the old-style propeller driven aircraft which was as far as his engineers had gotten.  Kixeye's Helicopter and Tilt-rotor technology was still far beyond them never mind the ancient "jet" technology that had once dominated the skys.

Unfortunately with every technology there were some falls before successes Artan remembered the thousands of failures that his research team had experienced in their trek to get aircraft to fly once again and the other failures of trying to get inexperienced pilots to land the aircraft on a thin and very long deck that was often tossing and turning in the turbulent seas. Artan knew that over on those three warships the pilots would at this very moment be seated in their ready rooms going over their orders prepairing for their first true combat mission. Their orders were plain and simple “Cause as much mayhem as you can and get the hell out of there before you are killed.”

“Sir!” came a shout from the Officer of the Deck. “The forward observer is reporting storm clearing and sea returning to fair seas.” The Officer of the Deck switched from the observer’s line and connected to the weather personnel that were located on the upper island citadel of the fortress.  A few moments later she hung up the phone. “Sir Bolt confirms what the forward observe reports.” She walked to stand beside him. “The barometer is climbing and the sea state is already evening out.”

“Good Lieutenant  Mathers.” Artan return to stand beside his chair and reach up and grabbed the red colored fleet phone. “Electra Actual to Enterprise Actual.”

“Enterprise Actual.” Came a stern tenor voice.

“Admiral Paterson, you have the ball.” Artan said and hung up the phone, from now on he was as much an observer as the rest of the fleet personnel. Slowly he climbed back up in his chair and fastened his safety belt, from their tests and the many voyages he'd participated in he knew that when the mighty fortress swung into the wind to keep pace with the carrier doing so would cause it to lean heavily to the inside of the turn and the fleet would be buffeted by the weather.

Over the fleet communications speaker the deep tenor voice of Admiral Paterson boomed out. “The force is under my command.” A short pause. “All fortresses take up guard positions on the flat tops.”

Looking out the windows to the see the twelve fortress start to shift positions, two fortress moving to flank the sides of each of the three carriers, with the ten Sea Wolves surging forward forming in to an arrow head in front of the formation screening the way ensuring unwanted eyes were kept at a distance. Over the next half hour the sea state further changed as they waited for the best possible launch conditions, it wasn't ideal at all but it was something that Duinhir's people hadn't quite countered yet.   â€œTo all hands the weather decks are now open.” Another pause on the overhead speakers. “The smoking lamp is now lit in all designate areas.”  And then a claxons began to ring. “Battle stations, battle stations, all hand to their battle stations.”

With a surge of activity it happened. The entire formation began to increase speed and started to swing into the wind the massive ships buffeted by the winds and seas as they moved. Bringing the air current from bow to stern across the massive ships decks and on the carriers where the planes were already on the decks and their propellers were starting.

From his bridge Artan looked across the sea at the signal bridge on the Enterprise, knowing that soon the signal would be given, and sure enough it was. The pennants that flew on her yardarms signal that all vessels were to set a certain course and to obtain flank speed, and that all carriers were to prepare for air operations. Suddenly those pennants were lowered and a new set was raised. The commence pennants it was a simple movement but passed a message so well soon both Yorktown and Hornet had followed suit, they were ready. Artan could see the six aircrafts that was on the flat deck that faced the Electra start wobbling their ailerons, elevators and tail rudders and flaps were being raised to aid in the wing surface which would help the aircraft to obtain flight. Then the first one started down the flat top towards the bow. It rolled off the front and dove towards the water, there was a heart stopping moment when everyone was sure that the aircraft so short in flight was going into the drink, but then it rose slowly and started to climb into the skye. The second one did the same, the third over next several minutes all of the carrier’s aircraft was airborne and setting course towards the target, a formation of eighteen aircraft six from each of the carriers, each ship was designed to carry upto twelve aircraft each but production of enough aircraft and training of pilots had resulted in Duinhir deciding to take only half.

“Electra Actual this is Enterprise Actual.” Came the tenor voice over the fleet comms. “Command is returned to you sir, all carrier reports all aircraft is in the air and on course to target sir.”

Artan picked up the fleet phone. “Electra Actual affirms.” Artan looked around the flag bridge a big smile on his face. “We did well” he thought seeing everyone around the bridge taking pride in their efforts finally seeing all their hard work paying off. “Enterprise, Hornet, and Yorktown will form up with the Seawolfs and standby to recover your birds.” Artan he ordered pressing a button on his command chair, beside it the ancient sound tube that lead to the bridge and was used before technology got the better of it. “Captain the boat is yours.” He said turning command over operations of the Fortress to its commander so he could watch over the fleet.  He keyed other controlls and spoke again “all Fortresses are to set course for the target, flank speed.” Artan again hung up the fleet phone and unfastened his safety belt and climbed down from his chair. “Electra Actual is transferring fleet command to CIC.” He said clearly the Flagbridge was a good place to see the outside world and to get a general overview over the situation however it was far too exposed to remain there in battle.  The Admiral walked to the door that lead from the flagbridge and headed deeper into the ship to the Command and Information Center which lie in the very heart of the fortresses citadel.

In the sky over the Forsaken Sea they flew. Eighteen aircraft, their engines humming with the power that lay beneath their cowlings, eighteen of the new weapons that would set the alliance apart from any other naval power in this forsaken world. six of the aircraft flew on the outer edges of the formation, fighters each equipped with ripper cannons and hydra rockets they would escort the others and provide a distraction for enemy gunners. The remaining twelve aircraft carrier two objects under their fuselages.  Modified mortar rounds that were redesigned for fall free from the aircraft as it dove towards its target turning the planes into dive bombers. Each was equipped with single ripper cannon for protection. All of the aircraft’s heading was the same, the Local draconian base and new glory for the Alliance.

In the sea below them twelve of the most deadly Forsaken floating fortresses makes their way towards their target, this quadrant’s Draconian base. A burning feeling of revenge burning with the hearts of all of their crews and the knowledge that this attack could cripple the Draconian forces that spreads fear in that region of the Forsaken Seas.

The air and the daily life on the Regional Draconian base was the same it had been for years, routine. The air was still and all the people went about their daily lives having no fears the Draconian Empire was all but untouchable. Then a strange noise came out from nowhere, a whining noise that grew. Everyone stopped and looked in the direction of the noise. It came from the sky.  Soon strange craft were flying overhead some brining attention to them others diving straight for the base.  As the aircraft dived screamed a deafening noise that would shake those unused to it, several hundred feet above the base they pulled up and object feel away from their wings. Seconds later a series of large explosion rocked the ground as the Draconians came under fire for the first time.  People ran towards their stations or towards shelters as other flew overhead shooting the base's buildings with fast firing cannons and rockets.  Running personnel fell as they ran, buildings were pitted and exploded and walls were crushed under the onslaught of fire, a wave of panic few over the base as they struggled to comprehend they were under attack, from the air.

The commander of the regional Draconian base couldn’t believe what was unfolding in front of him. “How dare these impudent curds do this!” He he scremed his suits external speakers turning it into a terrifying howl. Searching they skys of a symbol of who this was he spyed an identifying marking on the aircraft….A horned Demon Head skull sitting over a crossed pair of military swords which was sitting over a blood red background.

Two more of the agile aircraft flew off at a distance strafing the area that they flew over. Several fellow Draconian died under the onslaught of cannon and rocket fire, while off in the distance several building were burning from the massive explosions that consumed them. Then sirens sounded. “Well a little to late!” he screamed loudly the attack was well underway his people were dying under enemy fire and yet only now defenders reacted.  Moments later it dawned on him as four large mortar rounds slammed into the Command Tower it to the foundations.

"Mortar fire, Sir" a voice from behind him shouted. “We are under attack by the naval forces of Admiral Artan B. Duinhir.  They appear to have recovered aircraft technology.”

The young officer stood beside the base commander to look at the carnage that was unfolding in front of them, although he could not see the mans face because of his enviromental suit's faceplate he was sure that even on the Draconian's face the commander would have seen fear as more mortar fire came down out of the sky tearing into the base.  “Isn’t Admiral Duinhir a member of the old Republic Defense force?” the younger officer wondered out aloud.

“Yes he was.” The commander turned and started for the shelters. “But apparently his allegiance has change when that old governing body collapsed in the carnage that changed this world.  From what we know he works alone now his Task Force is in pieces spread out between three maybe four islands.  Peicemail to our forces if we wished.”  The commander tried to maintain his calm as he turned from the carnage heading into a shelter sealing it behind him

"Defences why are we not returning fire?"  He asked looking at the officers in the shelter before he was given an answer he realized it himself the air attack had been targetted on the firing control part of the Command Tower.  Without the control tower the weapons would have to be used manually and that would take time.

Outside the air attack only lasted for about 5 minutes the aircraft quickly spending their ordinance and much of their fuel, but the naval bombardment which had just begun lasted for nearly an hour.  Duinhir's twelve Forsaken Fortress contineously bombarding them with mortar fire dealing damage to the base.  Then almost as quickly as they had come the Forsaken force left the area, several moments of calm passed before the damage was realized.  Much of the external buildings and defences had been damaged or destroyed the entrance channel was crushed the defence walls and towers crushed and burning.  Several ships which had just returned were destroyed where they were anchored capsized, burning or begining to sink.  However the majority of the bases power the ships that provided the Draconians with the presence and power in the area had been protected deep within the harbour's sheltered dock.  Duinhir's people had cause much damage and hurt the Draconians for the first time however this attack had just hastened his demise and the demise of the rest of the Forsaken Islands, the time for peace was over.

Admiral Duinhir looked the many people working in CIC. The readings from the gun crews scrolled across the screen as hit after hit that were scored on the target. Soon however he realized that his people were not doing as much damage as he would have liked and ordered for the task force to depart before they took more damage than they had dealt already some of the Draconians surviving towers had regained manual control and were begining to return fire. As the Electra cleared the last section of the channel, Artan could see the other fortresses waiting for the Electra and the three carriers and their Sea Wolf escorts all waiting.  A few had been hit by Draconian weapons fire like the Electra and her fellow assault ships, but the damage was far lower than he'd have expected perhaps they had gotten lucky taking the Draconians by complete surprise.

“Sir, the Enterprise is reporting half of our aircraft have been recovered.” The comms officer standing in the CIC reported. “Six aircraft were destroyed by the Draconians and a further three ran out of fuel on the return journey, their pilots have been recovered."  She paused "Admiral Paterson reports all remaining aircraft have been recovered to Enterprise and Hornet, sir, the Admiral also reports that the Yorktown was hit by four torpedoes during the attack."  Complete silence came through the CIC as the news sunk in.  "The Yorktown is still afloat however she is listing heavily on one side, fight operations completely out.  She will likely need towed back to Paragumo."

“Send to Enterprise Actual.” Artan walked towards the compartment door. “Recover splashed pilots and join back up with fleet detail two Sea Wolf Escorts to attach lines to Yorktown and begin to tow her home.” Artan stopped at the door. “All other forces are set course for Paragumo standard cruise formation.”Artan opened the door and left the room. But instead going to the flag bridge Artan went to the outer hatch and stepped out on to the catwalk that ran along the outside of the fortresses citadel. Outside he looked back in the direction of the Draconian base smoke raised into the air marking the destruction that he had wrecked on the base however it continued to hang there over the area, perhaps Duinhir had done enough damage to slow the Draconians but they were still active still a menace.

The sun began to slowly descend, marking the end of another day. But this day would go down in history. One for the fact that a Forsaken fleet successfully attacked a Draconian base and that a carrier had softened up the base prior to a base fleet attacking it. All was as is should be in Admiral Artan Barcius Duinhirs mind hopefully he'd weakened them enough for the others.  For now he had several damaged ships, nine precious aircraft lost and hundreds of personnel injured or dead with the enemy still standing.  Now they would have to wait to see what the response would be from the other Draconians in the area.

Standing there as his ships began to turn other throughts played on his mind, why had he not waited until he had fighters to fill all the carriers to capacity?  Why could he not trust his pilots training to pull them through? How long would repairs take?  How long would the Yorktown be out of commission?  Would he be ready for the Draconian counter attack?  Would any of the other Alliance pirates have better luck than he?  The one thing he did know that the Governor of Paragumo would be annoyed having to redirect the resources to repair the damaged ships and construct more aircraft. Likely other ships of the task force would have to send out fleets to recover the lost resources risking more Paragumo lives.  On the bright side he knew that the airfield on Paragumo was nearing completion, maybe he should have waited until the airfield was completed before he deployed the only three carriers that he had. Maybe he should have waited until the planned eight carriers were completed. In Artan’s mind steps had to be taken to show the Draconians that this alliance would not just roll over and play dead for them. “I’ll be damned if I sit idly by and watch this sector go to these scum!” Artan thought as he looked across the sea. Artan turned and walked over to a phone that was nearby and dialed in the flag bridge. “Joshua, did the wolves sink that sub?”

“Yes sir.” Joshua reported. “It was located and dispatched by a Sea Wolf of Destroyer Group 32.”

"Very good pass to the other fleets, The door is open" he said perhaps his people had failed but hopefully the alliance wouldn't Artan hung the phone and turned to the lift. Closing the door and pushing the button for the deck that his stateroom was on. He momentarily leaned back against the bulkhead of the lift. Combat was tiring, even for a commander. Sorting out the data, calculating responses, and knowing when your forces had enough.  All of those factors equaled up to one thing, a massive migraine that threatened to pound its way right out of his head, however something was different the lift began to spin and the Admiral felt his body move but not under his control, he felt an impact on the deck of the lift, the doors opened and there was a scream the Admiral heard someone shouting for a medic before everything went dark around him.

Twenty-One

LIGHT! LIGHT LIGHT
The light burned his eyes
"What happened" Duinhir thought he meant to speak the words but his mouth was dry the words never came
"You had a heart attack, you're lucky to be alive" his wife Rowen said standing in front of him, she'd left formed her own island he hadn't seen her for more than a month.
"When..." he blurted out his lips finally finding movement
"After the attack" another voice said it was his son Alalcamenos someone else he rarely saw.
"Did we win?" he asked

Following the encounter with Repossession the Captain had called several other island's leaders to a council so far they were breaking even fighting on their own, the Draconians supplies continued to sail between outposts their miners continued to defend.  It was obvious to the Captain that one sector alone couldn't win.  "I have called off our attacks due to this encounter..." he was explaining before one of the others interupted.

"Captain, we are not your sub-ordinates, this alliance came together under the understanding that we would work together not that we would follow your every command."  Captain Simon Hell said quietly he was obviously annoyed by the recall order glancing over the gathering he could see that there was a few other agreeing with them.

"The Captain, did not mean it as it came out" Senator Michaels interupted he hadn't been invited however the Captain was quietly glad he was here.  "Instead it was an advisory message that informed you all that new information and options had become availible.  We wanted everyone to know what was on the table before action was made."

"What information?"  Christoper "Seaking" King asked stepping to the fore he'd been at previous meetings however had been quiet and happy to allow others to ask questions now however he looked ready for a fight "Captain, it was your island that was hit by the Draconians, your call for us to hit the Draconians back.  We answered your call because your attack against Blackheart showed us the power of working together,  None of us have even seen Blackheart on the seas but now we see Draconians everywhere with no end our people are dying daily."

"Which is why I suggest a new approach." the Captain said "recently my fleet encounter Hayden Repossession at sea enroute to a Draconian target." he heard from the gathered commanders the word 'Repoman' one of Repossessions more polite nicknames.  "He suggests that we unite the sectors and all work together, but that he cannot do anything himself.  Instead he suggests that we unite the sectors with out own message.  We have seen we are making an impact on some Draconian operations but the vast majority of them are still at strength and that supply convoys continue to keep them operational."

"So he expects us to go into his territory and bring pirates to us so what? he can sink them closer to home." Captain Rick suggested

"If we can gather the captains around Repo into an assault against the Draconians then perhaps we can unite all the forsaken islands, have them pass the message beyond our own range." Captain Alex War suggested

"Here in this sector we are struggling to come out even on a level par with the Draconians, not one of us have come out ahead of them.  Repo suggests that we contact a pair of pirates Lord Viper and another Lord Daemonicus togther if we can contact them then we can unite the three sectors."  The Captain continued explaining the plan "so I suggest we break into four battle groups similar to the Blackheart operation."  He said rolling out a map showing the Sectors 72,73 and 74.  "Seaking, Nine-won-three, Buk and Alex War will coordinate this sectors defence, countering attacks against our islands, and attacks on the Draconians attacking Draconian bases, fleets and mine defenders.  Rick, and Simon Hell will lead a task force in search of Lord Viper into Sector 74, this is not an offensive mission" the Captain stressed the importance of the fact.  "If they are hostile to our ideas come on home no damage done" the Captain explained.  "Carl Grim, Glyn and Sub-master Angelique will go in search of Lord Daemonicus."

"Needle in a haystack" Carl said quietly "he used to be big player in the region but I haven't seen him on the seas in months, his base is shrouded in secracy.  No-one has gone near him in a long time some say the area is haunted."

"Well we'll try anyway." The Captain said quietly "finally myself, Hawke and Mark Red will lead a force into 72 to Repossession's base of operations.  We'll call him out and see just how legit he is with his offer we'll also see if anyone else is serious.  I'll be honest I'm slight apprehensive about the idea but we'll see how this plays out."  He said looking at the faces around the table "we have done the near impossible so far people let's take it a little further."

"What about Duinhir?  Or Alalcamenos both have dropped off the map since Duinhir's attack."  Nine-won-three asked he looked slightly irritated by the fact Duinhir had shown them all the use of airpower was possible again but then had disappeared once again.

"Unknown there has been nothing since his attack, Commodore Holloway has taken command of his surface assets that much my intelligence has uncovered however Holloway has his own way of working and doesn't appear to want/need our assistance.  None of the Admirals carriers have been seen at sea since their initial attack, one was damaged by a submarine during the strike.  Alalcamenos appears to be have problems with Draconians of his own - one of his crews has gone missing he is involved in operations to recover them and may be out of contact.  They have strong fleets but so do we and we can do this if we act together, there is plenty experiance in this force and plenty of knowledge about the Draconians here too.

Meanwhile across the seas

When he'd first woken up Duinhir had found he'd missed nearly six months of the war due to his heart attack, the Doctors had placed him in a coma to save his life and allow his body to regenerate.  During this time both his wife Rowen and his son Alalcamenos had returned to care for him while Commodore Joshua Halloway had taken the Electra and her battle group back to sea to continue to support the sector's actions against the Draconians.  As soon as he could he had returned to work despite having a heart-attack at 50 he was convinced that only he could make a difference, Rowen had supported him at  first but again the strain of combat had caused her to leave him to "his wargames" his son had stayed longer however his attaché Themocles while a capable commander didn't have enough of the respect of Alalcamenos's troops.  Alone again Duinhir had overseen the completion of his island's new airstrip which would allow him to train new pilots and develop bigger ships, unfortunately he found out that the Yorktown which had been damaged in the previous fight by a Draconian Sub was still in drydock and would be for another month maybe more according to his engineers the entire flight deck would need to be re-laid.

He needed the resources and needed to get into the action but with the Electra at sea he needed something else instead he formed a new group based around the Enterprise, Hornet, two captured Draconian Battlecruisers refitted with Forsaken technology and one of Duinhir's Terror Wolves, a Sea Wolf refitted with Draconian D33A Assault Cannons, advanced firing barrels and quicker autoloaders the ship would act as his flagship while he tested his carriers for a second time.  Unlike before this time Artan had ordered his carriers to maximum capacity with twelve aircraft each.  Beyond the strike group ten more Sea Wolves formed a perimeter screening for Draconian ships and submarines.

"Admiral" the Iroquois' commander said Artan looked over at Commander Garth Forsyth said getting his attention "Enterprise reports pilots are in briefings preparing for flight operations at 1000hrs."

"Good news" he said climbing up in his command chair and stroked the padded leather arm rest. “I miss my old chair.” He said aloud.  His comment drawing a few giggles from a couple of women who stop nearby, Artan just looked at them both and winked at them Duinhir reached to where the fleet phone should be hanging only to be grabbing at thin air. “Damn-it!” He exclaimed as he remembered that on the Advanced Sea Wolf's fleet phone was mounted on the bulk head besides the chair. He grabbed the phone and keyed the hand set. “All ships make flank speed and prepare for turn into the wind.” He ordered and hung the phone backup.

The Terror Wolf and two Battlecruisers easily made and maintained 30 knots however the two Carriers struggled in the turbulent seas.  "Surface contact!" One of the radar operators called "Admiral, Draconian Battleship it's on its own sir."  Artan smiled.

"Cancel all fleet operations bring on course with them"

“Cancelling flight operations coming to bearing 243 degrees." The officer of the deck braked following a nod from Commander Forsyth.

"Confirmed a single Battleship, its damaged Admiral” the sensor operator reported "and broadcasting distress."

"Good work Shelby" Forsyth said he looked at Duinhir, Artan looked at the sensors for a moment and nodded "All hands battle stations, battles station!"  Forsyth shouted "bring online targetting systems, damage crews to their positions."  He ordered commanding his ship the Officer of the Deck repeated his words throughout the ship.

“My intentions are to capture that ship. All ships prepare for boarding party action.” Artan hungup up the fleet phone and headed for the door.  He glanced at Forsyth who nodded "Commander put your ship in front of that Battleship block her path, have both Battlecruisers cover her flanks and have the carriers complete the box behind.  If this lot wants to escape they go through us."

"We don't have as much armour as your Fortress Admiral."  Forsyth warned before beginning to shout orders across the bridge.  The Terror Wolf pulled in front of the Battleships crossing her parth the nimble destroyer easily matching the course despite the waves and speed, the two battlecruisers slipped into flanking positions just out of effective weapons range while the two Carriers closed the box behind them.  "Incoming missiles" Forsyth warned he looked at Duinhir but the admiral remained quiet "maintain course, brace for contact!"  The Commander ordered the brace of Cutlass missiles flew rapidly through the air three of them slamming into the forward hull causing minor damage.  The Wolf was rocked by the impacts but maintained position "damage crews clear damaged sections."

"Cut engines."  Duinhir ordered intending on stopping the Battleship, the Wolf's engines cut out moments later "weapons, fire a volley over her bow."  He ordered Forsyth nodded to the weapons targeting officer, moments later there was a whirling sound as all five of the ship's D33-A Assault Cannons spun up and opened fire on the still closing Battleship.   The advanced targeting systems on the Terror Wolf took the volley just over the Battleships damaged hull anyone on the deck would have felt the wind pushed by the shells.

"Still closing at speed" Shelby ordered "impact 3 minutes."

"Time to test that armour" Artan said quietly watching the contact close on the vessel it felt strange to be this close to an enemy without hearing weapons fire.  The Battleships speed didn’t change and the Draconian ship slammed into the Wolf's forward port side metal bent and turned under the impact and screamed as the two ships were locked together in a deadly embrace.  Artan was thrown back into his chair by the impact momentarily stunning him.  Forsyth was more prepared.

"Forward gun keep an eye on that ship pick off anyone on the deck."  A D33 Assault Cannon was not designed for anti-personnel operations however it was still deadly for the task as the cannon began to spin up and engage the Draconian on deck "Admiral?"

"Boarding crews to stations have the Battlecruisers close and add their marines to ours.  Carriers to maintain position" Duinhir said regaining his composure. 

On the deck Draconians were pouring from hatches across the ship Draconian soldiers pouring on to the deck. Bullets flew everywhere smashing into the Iroquois' hull as D33 fire cut down suited Draconian soldiers.  Men and women on both side laid on their decks in a bloody mess that dripped into the sea turning the water a murky colour.  Suddenly under the D33's fire and additional fire from the Iroquois' marines caused the Draconian guns to fall silent only visible hatch the led to the ships inner passageways a dark menacing looking place.

The Iroquois’ marines surged forward coming up to the outer hatch and taking defensive positions to the right and left of the hatch. One marine gave the sergeant that was closest to the hatch a pear-shaped object, and the sergeant yanked out a cotter pin with his teeth and tossed the object through the hatch with a sidearm throwing motion. Inside the passway the grenade could be heard bouncing off the bulkheads and a few seconds later the explosion went off and smoke rolled out the door. The sergeant held his left hand in the air with five fingers pointing skyward and started lowering one finger at a time. When all five of his fingers were closed in to a fist the sergeant and two other marines stormed through the hatch firing their automatic rifles as they went through the door. This same routine repeated itself many times as more marines from the other two carriers and the two battlecruiser came aboard the stricken battleship.

Decks crews from the two carriers and both battle-cruisers came aboard the battleship and started to secure lines to the ship’s bollards and throwing them back across to other deck seamen that was still on board the Iroquois. All the slack that was from the mooring lines until the battleship and the Sea Wolf would respond to the same helm commands the smaller ships powerful engines working overtime to control the crippled battleship. Slowly the carrier started forward motion and started an extra wide turn setting course for its home port, its escorts taking up defensive positions and the other two carriers following closely behind for protection.

All this was occurring while inside the battleship the Iroquois’ marines both gained ground and lost ground, fighting from compartment to compartment. Alongside the additional marines from the two battlecruisers momentum was gained and slowly the Forsaken marines over came the battleship’s defenders. But the cost in numbers was great and hours after the combat had begun only a few dozen of the ninety six marines that boarded were left, the massive suited Draconian soldiers able to take a lot of fire before falling each taking a couple of marines.  With the ship mostly secure Duinhir had came across to from the Iroquois to the battleship just as the command deck of the Battleship was reached by his marines. A flash bang grenade had opened this last melee of combat and then the carnage had begun, without room to use weapons most of it was done in hand to hand combat.  The Draconians were desperate not to lose however the Duinhir's marines well trained and equipped had overcome them but with continuing high levels of injury and loss. After the melee was over a few forsaken marines were off to one side bandaging their wounds as the rest gathered up the Draconians weapons which unlike their massive bulky enviromental suits seemed to be standard personnel weapons issued to any ship board marine. This was the time that Admiral Artan Duinhir had waited for, his revenge his prize. Along with the marines who had stayed back to provide protection for him. Artan and the five men stepped on to the bridge of the Draconain Battleship and crossed the deck to stand before the Draconian battleship’s capain

“Captain, accorded to Naval traditions of old. I ask for the surrender of your ship sir.” Duinhir stood confident in his short 5 foot eight inch stance proud of his men's accomplishments despite the damage done and the carnage throughout the ship it would take weeks just to clean the ship out, and the heat was nearly unbearable.  Duinhir had been on the ship less than fifteen minutes and already the excessive heat had made him sweat nearly uncontrollably.

The Draconian captain looked down at him, contemptment in his eyes. “I will do no such thing Admiral!” He snarled his voice distorted by his suit the man was trying to use it to unhinge Duinhir and intimidate him despite the Admiral's armed bodyguard.  "This is an Imperial Draconian vessel of the Red Fleet, I will not surrend this ship to you or any of your rabid band."  He continued to ramble Duinhir raised his arm in it he held his service pistol not used in anger in years.  "You threaten an unarmed man Admiral, does it make you feel big and strong, I will invite this failure like all others.  I WILL NOT..." He begun to shout his voice echoing through the corridors, he was cut off however by a single shot.

The bullet had left Duinhir's pistol and struck the Draconian's check going staight through the suit, there was a sound off gas escaping as the suit lost pressure and the Draconian stood there for a moment, for one second Duinhir had thought the Draconian had survived the shot, he'd aimed for the heart at point blank... the Admiral's mind raced for a few seconds then Draconian fell clattering to the deck there was silence on the bridge and on the ship for all of ten seconds before anyone spoke.. “Then the hard road is taken, sir” Artan said looking down at fallen Draconian "Major,Secure this ship!” Artan turned and started for the door. “Run these rats into the sea.”

Duinhir left the battleship’s bridge and stepped out on to its weather deck headed by for the Iroquois, he stopped and pulled the pistol out for its holster and looked at it for a few seconds. “This is war," He muttered before tossed the weapon overboard and it quickly sunk in to the sea, Artan knew that in the end before his death he will have to commit many more once unforgivable acts, but as he said this was war, and the times had changed since honor ruled the oceans.  The Paragumo Carrier Task Force made its way back to Paragumo Island at the best possible speed that they could manage, Duinhir had rigged up several of the Sea Wolf escorts which had been securing the area to the Battleship towing it across the Forsaken Seas headng for home.

Twenty-three

"They used to say actions spoke larger than words, we'll see."

Although he knew that other Forsaken commanders had tried to contact other sectors to rally support Artan knew the only real way of uniting them was action and this operation was a long shot, but if it worked he would be spending the next few days in his stateroom laughing his ass off. The Battleship the Iroquois had captured had been brought to Paragumo Island and was repaired to the best of the shipyards capabilities. He had stopped thanking the Lord the Paragumo Island’s manufacturing plants were now turning out more Draconian weapon than they were Forsaken weapons and had begun thinking about how he could boost their production. The ship's battered armor had been repaired with some of the Draconian armor that was recovered from other wrecks, and to top it off the Bismarck and Tripitz, Duinhir's two Battlecruisers were outfitted to appear as Draconian vessels while their armour had been repainted in the darker colours favoured by the Draconians Imperial forces. Now all three ships were on course to a smal Draconian base on the border with the neighbouring sector, smaller than the previously targetted facility it was perfect for his test.

While the others were only making contact with Repossession Artan had been in communication for a while they had shared intelligence but Duinhir remembered a very simple phrase from the old world "keep your friends close and your enemies closer." there was something else to it however the reason behind this communication and understanding with Repossession, both had served the Old Republic's navy in the crumbling times both scambling to take resources and forces before their alliance cumbled around them. Artan was sure that was that was where Repo had gained his Hammerhead type craft, an experiment of the Republic's that he had not been aware of, but there was no proof of it either way, the ships were very impressive.

During these secret discussions Duinhir had agreed a non-agression pact with Repossession and that Duinhir would send information on his Enterprise-class Strike Carrier to Repo, giving away this ship's schematics had been hard but it had won him bargining room and Repo would still need to develop aircraft of his own and train pilots so his advantage remained. Duinhir had struggled with the decision however he knew that he needed to prove the Draconians were defeatable and that his ships were not capable of doing it alone. He knew that others would not understand or agree with his reasoning but it was simple to Duinhir “If they can’t take a joke, then fuck them all.” His forces were strong enough to stand alone and he knew the sector's growing alliance could stand without him, if they needed to part ways he could live with it, but if they understood... and if this attack succeeded... then they could make a difference. Ever since his heart attack Artan’s attitude had changed, he knew it, his son had cautioned him on it his wife refused to see it. He was more dark and deceptive in his actions had become more danagerous, so much so that even his crew walked a thiner line around him, even Commodore Joshua Holloway, one of his tried and tested confidants was careful in his words. “Sir, message.” One crewmen interupted snapping him out of his thoughts.

The Admiral reached over and accepted the folded piece of paper. Sitting back in his chair he unfolded and read its contents. Repo was returning the message that Artan had sent him that notified him of the identity of the three Draconian warships that he was using on this attack. Repo’s message had been a return that showed that the previous message was understood and that his fleet would be near the agreed position. Their choice was made their attack was planned. The plan was simple the Ajax, their captured and rebuilt Draconian Battleship, was outfitted with Draconian Seige and assault weapons. It's two escorting Battlecruisers were carried support weapons including a torpedo launcher each, the largest ship Artan had encountered capable of carrying one. The three warships would approach the Draconian base and transmit the standard coded transmission that was identified by Holloway's spies and analyists.

Just then the phone rang and Artan picked up the receiver. “Sir the Draconian base singles the clear to approach the channel entrance.” It was Jaclyn one the other end. She was assigned as the Ajax’s communications officer. During the repairs of the Draconian vessels they had captured they had picked up much information on the Draconians, their customs and their origin.

“Signal them our affirmation.” Artan responded and hung the phone back up.

“Comm from Ajax Actual.” Artan called over to the bridge, “Set course for the channel.” The Ajax altered its course and started for the channel with the Bismarck taking up lead position and the Tripitz following the Ajax. As the three vessels crossed the outer points of the channel entrance everything remained calm the Draconians accepting their own ships to base. All hands on the ships were waiting for the crap to hit the fan, but everything remained quit. All three vessels passed under a bridge that spanned the entrance channel connecting the two smaller islands together as a single solid mass. Artan looked at his watch and thought back to the briefing that took place in a deserted islands cove. He knew that behind him all three of his strike carriers would already be within the striking range of their airwings and that the aircraft should be about three minutes out. He also knew that Repossession's Hammerheads would be coming into range from the north and that very soon the base would go nuts, threatened from beyond.

Right on queue “sir, Draconian harbor master wants us to reverse course to intercept a fleet of Hammerhead warships that is approaching the base.” Lieutenant Kirkland announced Duinhir couldn't help but feel smug.

He looked at the communications officer and smiled. “Tell the harbor master…BALLS!” Artan exclaimed as he picked up the fleet phone. “What is our aircraft's ETA?"

"Sixteen minutes,sir"

"Tripitz Actual from Ajax Actual.” Artan said stopping briefly as out the window several aircraft flew overhead. "The word is given, unlease hell." He ordered

“All guns fire!” Captain Rascal, ship commander of the Ajax, said as he grabbed the arm rests of his command chair. Duinhir was an observer now this was Rascal's battle he wouldn't interupt. The main siege and assault weapons from the Ajax and Tirpitz opened up on the surrounding structures of the Draconian base. The Ajax’s D55-E Siege missile launcher and D51-L Strike Missile launcher opened up, missiles firing off landing on buildings that were several hundred meters from the warships. The D71-L Shockwave Mortars from the Ajax and the two D71-N Shockwave Mortars from the Tripitz sent their rounds slamming in to the same structures that were within their range. The Ajax’s D35-S siege cannon and D33-X Assault cannon started tearing into the structures that lined the channel. The Tripitz’s Havoc Torpedoes slammed into several oil derricks that were behind them keeping the channel clear for their retreat while the Bismarck screened them ahead intercepting incoming mortar rounds with its Hailstorm Anti-Mortar guns.

The incoming missile and ballistic weapons were causing minor damage, however, due to the nature of the three vessel’s construction which gave a slight amount of protection from missile, ballistic and explosive munitions. With both internal fire from Duinhir's vessels and external attack from Repo’s Hammerheads their firepower was finally begining to have an effect on the Draconian base, In the centre of this hurricane of weapons fire Artan knew that his small force couldn’t stay long his ships were resistant to weapons fire but were still taking damage after 10 minutes Artan turned to the Ajax’s captain and knew he had to give the order.

“Captain, commence an organized retreat of all forces.” He said as he looked out the bridge’s window surveying the carnage that the attack surprise attack had already caused and the disarray the Draconians were in. He knew that the attack had caused more damage than any previous attack against a Draconian base. He also knew that anyone looking at the base could tell the vass majority of the base was damage and that a unified attack between two powerful forsaken forces had a positive effect on the attack. But now was not time to analyse the attack it was time to get out of here before the base imploded into a burning inferno.

The Bismarck and Tripitz responded to the orders and started their turn to follow the reciprocal to the course that they were on, but as the Ajax started her turn the Captain slammed in to Artan and knocked him clear through the metal door of the bridge, just as a mortar round slammed in to the bridge, twisting the compartment and causing a fireball to sail over the fallen Admiral's head. Slowly regaining his feet Artan looked in to the wreckage that had once been the bridge of the Ajax only to find absolute carnage, the twelve men and women who had occupied the compartment, and controlled the vessel, all dead and burnt beyond recognition. “That son of a bitch saved my life!” Artan thought, thanking the stars that the Ajax's commander had though of him he turned and staggered towards the Command and Information Center below the bridge deeper within the ship's armoured hull.

Inside CIC it was total chaos, as Artan stepped through the door even Duinhir could see the mortar that had hit the bridge ha penetrated enough into the hull to damage the CIC. “Situation, Commander Martov?” Artan asked as he made his way towards the map table in the center of the dimly light room unlike the bridge this room gave no views of the outside the world nor did it give a command chair instead the room was all business, even an Admiral had to be ready to work and move with the flow of the room.

“All communications with the bridge has ceased, and we are adrift.” Commander Martov reported as he crossed the compartment to check further readouts "that fire must have severed our communications. What is going on up there?" He asked confused adding a belated "sir"

“Commander, You won’t be able to restore communications with the Bridge.” Duinhir said grimly as he looked at Martov he saw the relization cross the commander's face. “Their all dead Sam.” He added picking up the mic that connected the CIC with the ship’s intercom system. “ Auxillary steering this is Flag Admiral Duinhir from CIC, the bridge has been... disabled take all further communcations from CIC" he said "yes I am in command, out.” He ordered he had to gain control over a ship that had lost its commander, a ship could easily fall to pieces without its leader. He around the compartment at the many faces that was showing the horror and realization of what he had seen. "Communications contact Bismark and Tirpitz inform both of our situation and that we may need further cover fire, Helm continue to reverse our course and give us best speed to retreat." There was a variety of ayes followed by an announcement from the Communications officer.

"Admiral, our aircraft are overhead orders?"

"Cover our retreat and support Repossession." Duinhir said smiling outside wave after wave of single propeller aircraft began to bomb the draconian outpost, behind them the slightly slower larger twin propeller bombers flew overhead carpet bombing the Draconian targets, causing further distraction for the still underfire Draconians. This distraction would hopefully allow the Bismark, Ajax and Tripitz to retreat unmolested, Duinhir's wish was not to be however as the Ajax was torn into by further fire from the Draconians.

As the damaged Ajax retreated the vessel rocked heavily as it was impacted by several more heavy enemy rounds, her own heavy D35-S Siege cannon was ripped from its gimble and tossed off into the sea by the impacts the mighty battleship taking hit after hit as it retreated. The Bismarck slowed down to try and provide anti-mortar coverage for the Ajax however that exposed the ship to even more fire causing the Battlecruiser more damage "a costly task indeed" Duinhir thought. All three ships cleared the last section of the Draconians channel and made their way into the blue water of the open ocean however even clear of the Draconian outpost they were under continued fire, over the dark sea black smoke bellowed from the Ajax in several locations as the crippled ship struggled to maintain speed. When the bridge had been hit one of its hailstorm anti-mortar weapons had been hit which had exposed the seige cannon, the gaping holes in the armoured hull had been exposed to the enemy and now fire raged throughout the ship's hull damage control teams throughout the vessel were busy dealing with the fire but it was far from under control.

Within the CIC Duinhir was confident they were secure there however he also knew that the only reason that the entire ship remained afloat from the destruction of the D35-S turret was that the ammo magazine for that weapon was equipped with some of the best fire suppression equipment that could be put in to that bulk compartment. As he counted his lucky stars he also counted the repair bills it would take months for the Ajax to be repaired and pit back to sea, but first the crippled ship had to back it back to Paragumo Island in his possession and intact.

Hours clicked away before the crippled Ajax, and its escorting Bismarck and Tripitz were able to meet up with the Enterprise, Yorktown and Hornet. On rendevoux Duinhir had called on status reports from the carriers three carriers reported that only 74% of their airwing had returned from the assault. The Hornet had lost two of its new twin engine medium bombers that were being carried for this operation designed to fly for longer carrying more fuel and munitions there were originally eight of them now only six 25% losses more deaths on Artan's thoughts. Overall the Admiral considered the operation a success soon after he had received reports from Reposession which informed him that the other pirate's Hammerheads had swung around to the channel and had entered the base and followed up on the original strike. They had struck the base like an avenging fury and although Repo had lost one of his Hammerheads in the engagement the smoke from the Draconian base could be seen for several thousand kilometres.

In his report Repo also said that he had used a specialized EMP rocket that was designed to short out the electrical equipment of any object that was within its blast radius allowing for his retreat. The attack had been a success Duinhir knew that around now the Achilles would be meeting with Repo's fleet far from prying eyes and transfering the agreed price for their continued non-agression pact. Artan knew the rest of the sector would likely have to pay a price as well but his duty was to take the war to the Draconians and he had done exactly that. He knew the information would give Reposession a tactical advantage and a new weapon to terrorise other pirates however he also knew that it would take a year or more to field aircraft and carriers capable of attacking someone which gave them time and a continued advantage. He also knew that with the still underconstruction Intrepid and Saratoga he could keep his lead on the others. Soon more of the Forsaken Islands would be required to gain this technology to keep everyone on the same level soon they would all have an advantage over the Draconians.

The task forces from Paragumo Island made best speed heading home the seas of the Forsaken Sea picking back up as another storm blew in to the sector, the weather was getting steadily worse. Lives were lost on both sides this day, but finally a loss was handed to the Draconians. As soon as the storm cleared they could hold funeral ceremonies. Burial at sea was what most of his sailors had to look forward to until they were able to bring some sort of peace to the sea, unfortunatly that was a distant dream too many Pirates happy with the current status quo. Duinhir began to think about the next step of his campaign against the Draconians when his officer phone buzzed "Duinhir" he answered. On the other side Joshua Holloway spoke slowly and carefully "What! That can't be true!" Duinhir shouted raising to his feet "Damn them all to hell, we have been betrayed!!" He screamed his anger overflowing the news he'd been given almost completely wiped out his victory, sometimes it seemed the entire sea was against them, a stream of challenges and problems.

Twenty-five

"Sometimes it takes a shocking event for a decision to make.  The attack on Paragumo Island was enough to unite nearly every forsaken island of Sector 73 and its neighbours.  Everyone now had common enemies and decisions to make."

"Incoming vessels Captain" the radar officer called out, over the last three weeks various fleets had come to Repossession's territory and confronted the fleets of Michael's Island, Captain Hawke and Captain Red, none had attacked them however Repossession had not been seen either.  "Hammerheads Captain."  The officer reported a quiet murmour crossed the bridge.

"Battlestations" the Captain ordered "just incase" he said quietly "helm bring us on course with them."  He said as the fleets turned to face the incoming vessels "external cameras, let me see what they have" he said moments later the forward cameras came online looking at the incoming vessels what he saw surprised.  The lead Hammerhead was covered in yellow tiger stripes however it was also scarred by battle damage, alongside it another ship was almost completely black its yellow stripes burned from its hull the other three ships in the formation all bore the same pain scheme however all were damaged to varying degrees.  "Someone's been in a fight."  He whispered again.  "Hail them" he said clearly for all to hear.

"Communications seem to be down on ene.... Hammerhead vessels."  the communications officer said stumbling over the designation for the incoming Hammerheads "they are on a direct course for the island."

"Observation six to bridge, five Hammerhead designed vessels leaving Repossession's island, turning towards incoming vessels."  The radio barked its warning as crewmen around the Captain's Leviathan saw more of Repossession's vessels launching.

"Comms, pass to all our captains, give Repossession a wide berth if he's smarting from a defeat we don't want to get in the way."  The Captain ordered even a group of damaged Hammerheads were likely a match for his forces.  The five new Hammerheads closed on the damaged vessels slowing as they approached a small boat left the damaged Hammerhead and docked with the flagship of the new group.  Soon after the five damaged ships moved slowly past them heading into the Island's channel docking, the five new ships began to slowly turn towards the Captain's ships.

"Communications from Repossession's new flagship, it's on a broad spectrum band going to every ship in this area."  The comms officer said moments later as the speakers around the bridge crackled to life.

"Pirates that have gathered here, this is Hayden Repossession, you all know that I do not support alliances, I am a pirate I fight alone" the voice said over the comm. the Captain's heart sank his hopes that Repossession would support their plans.  "However I have just completed a joint operation with Flag Admiral Artan Duinhir, and we have crushed a Draconian outpost.  Working together we can put these Draconians in their place...."  Repo continued to talk about joint operations against the Draconians however the Communications officer broke in.

"Captain, message from Duinhir!"  He said urgently.

"Confirming Repo's story?"  The Captain asked the officer shook his head.

"Negative Captain, Duinhir is reporting Paragumo Island has been assaulted by a Forsaken fleet."

"Get me into Repo's communications" he ordered looking at the officer.  "Helm set a course for home flank speed."  He said glancing back at the comm. officer who nodded "Repo, sorry to break in it seems Duinhir's island has just been attacked by one of the Forsaken.  I invite anyone willing to join us fighting the Draconians should also join us in supporting a fallen enemy."  There was a noticable pause before a loud and clear reply came over.

"I will not act as the Forsaken's police force however I have known Duinhir for a very long time, I'll come if anything just to see who assaulted his island."  Repo replied again, using the broad communications system his Hammerheads possessed, with Repo's words dozens of captains from Sector 72 agreed to join them in support of someone who had fallen in battle ready to help pick them up or put down this new enemy.

Approaching Paragumo island....

Duinhir's fleets sped back towards Paragumo Island as fast as they could with their crippled battleship under tow.  The return to the island Duinhir could see that his son Admiral Alalcamenos was on station with several fleets of Leviathans, Sea Wolves and Floating Fortresses providing assistance.  "Take us into the island, Sam" he said looking over the CIC at the ship's acting commander since the destruction of the bridge.  The subdued commander nodded.  Duinhir left the CIC someone barked "Admiral off the deck" sharply but he barely noticed stepping out onto the external walkway he could see his island.  He knew the Governor wouldn't be happy, and likely losses would be high,  The Battleship half under its own power, half towed by the Tripitz moved slowly into the harbour Duinhir could see the absolute destruction.  Akin to his own surprise strike against the Draconians he now faced his own "Pear Harbour" a great history fan himself Duinhir knew the ancient World War II story of an attack on a far forgotten island, owned by a long gone country, against a base known as Pearl Harbour.  That attack had crippled the battleship fleet of that country and now looking over his vessels Duinhir could see row after row of destroyed or crippled Leviathans, three Floating Fortresses were ablaze while another three were listing heavily to one side all sitting in a line, several support vessels were just as badly damaged the combined light from their fires would keep the sky bright for days.

Raising a hand-held radio to his mouth Duinhir spoke "Have our Sea Wolves maintain a perimetre and keep everyone at a distance we need to discover who..." his voice trailed off as he saw the Graf Zeppelin his newest strike carrier.  The ship almost half completed before the attack was split nearly into two halves, its deck potmarked by bomb impacts and its control tower a burning hole.  Beyond it to make things worse the airfield which laid beyond the wrecked carrier was also burning, looking over the airfield he saw a wrecked aircraft for a moment he thought it was one of his new twin engined aircraft however after a closer look he realized what it was.  "Kixeye Corporation" Duinhir whispered knowing it was one of their tilt-rotor aircraft ruined by missile fire from his defences but completely identifiable "so finally those who think they are better, try to show it."

As his damaged ships docked at the damaged harbour dock Duinhir headed straight for the Operations Command Centre deep within his Island's main facilities.  Entering the reinforced command room Duinhir could see control panels hanging from the roof even through several layers of reinforced concrete the base had taken a pounding.  Standing at the central command table was Colonel Sean Flemming his defence commander.  "Report" Duinhir ordered moving to join his command staff at the table.

"Sir, they struck at 02:32 hrs at the south ten Floating Fortresses supported by five Stalker Submarines."  Flemming started "the Stalkers infiltrated our defences took down our docking facilities and harbour control locking in our defence fleets.  Our turrets took down three of the Stalkers before they retreated.  Soon after the first Fortresses struck at the south wall, striking at our turrets and research labs, they knew exactly where to hit our base cutting power to half the base before falling back.  Soon after approximately ten of their tilt-rotor craft flew over the base bombing our airfield and dock yard cutting down our ships and planes still in their docks."  Flemming said reporting the attack as it played out Duinhir was showed radar images of the attack.  "At 03:21hrs the second phase began with a second set of Fortresses they struck deep striking here at the outpost almost completely avoiding our turrets, on their ships they appear to have Hailstorm Mortar Defence systems on their Fortresses our Victory Mortars were completely ineffective."

"We have been testing the Hailstorm, it appears to be a worthwhile system."  Duinhir confirmed

"Aye sir, my guns had little chance, our Missiles almost bounced off them, fortunately our Howitzers still dig deep."  Flemming said happily "estimated casualties are almost three thousand sir."  Duinhir rocked on his heels three thousand more lives on his back, the pack was becoming heavier he thought quietly 'how long until losses would break him.'

"What about Alan why is he here?"  Duinhir asked using Alalcamenos' given name.

"At 04:20 hrs two of Alalcamenos' mining fleets were hit by a group of Leviathans and Draconian Battlecruisers.  They lost six ships in total another three had to be towed home.  Fortunately he was able to cripple one of the Leviathans and intercept it's radioed orders for task forces to be sent here and to Captain Rowen Duinhir's island as well as others including Hayden Repossession's."  Duinhir's mind raced first his base, Alan's and also his wife's home.  Almost as if they were being picked on.  Scanning through the list he noticed one common answer.  "We've heard nothing from the Captain, she could be laying low or..." his voice trailed off Duinhir nodded looking at the information provided.

"They are targetting Republic remnants.  We all fled that alliance when it fell in the last days of the great war.  These people want it gone.  Get Alan on the radio" Duinhir ordered picking up the tables phone.  His communications officer nodded "Duinhir to Athens are you recieving? over."

"Athens Actual recieves, situation?"

"Still standing." Duinhir said as an engineering crew entered and begun to work on the loose roof screens "Listen very carefully" Duinhir said tuning out the activity "I need you to send a force in strength to 43311,188."  He said letting the coordinates sink in "yes, those are correct.  Your force needs to acertain the condition of those coordinates and report back to us."

"Understood, I will send the Sparta under Rear Admiral Williams, my Wolves as escort."  He said calmly, I'll stay on station provide you with cover here until the Electra returns."  Alan said mentioning Duinhir's flagship, the Admiral suddenly realized that his flagship was not part of the victims of the sneak attack, although he had no idea where Holloway was he was certain that the Commodore had his reasons for not returning and was likely causing some havok with the firepower he had.

"Good, very good" Duinhir said picking up another communication the base had just recieved "Alan, standby."  He said turning to the Operations Centre Command "Communications send to the skipper from Michaels Island, we will come to you, area around this island not completely secure."  He said picking back up the phone "Alan, make ready for sea operations Athens and your subs with me, Leviathans remain on station."  He said turning back to Flemming "Major, looks like I'm leaving again I will leave four Carriers, our Wolves and Alan's support for your defence.  Continue clean-up operations and continue to try and raise Holloway.  I am taking Enterprise to Michaels Island, it's time for the rest of the sectors to find out what has happened."

"The Governor expressed is wish that you would see him as soon as you returned...." Flemming said his voice trailing off

"Of course, I shouldn't be gone long, have Enterprise be ready for my arrival."  Duinhir said turning he headed out of the operations room towards the dock and from there he'd head to the Enterprise.

Entering Sector 73....

Leading an armada of nearly eighteen fleets ranging from Marauders to Repo's Hammerheads the Captain walked onto the bridge and picked up the communication reply from Admiral Duinhir.  "Seems Duinhir wants to go it alone in his repairs, we're head for home, pass the word to all other ships in the group and pass the word throughout the Sector everyone invited."  He said moving towards his chair "also pass to Senator Michaels to expect some visitors, seems like we are the hosts."

"He'll love that." the communications officer said handing him a second communication this one from Rachel McManus, the Captain looked at it reading each of the words twice before looking up.

"Engineering, bridge, increase engines to maximum speed, helm see if you can shave a little of your course no sightseeing."  The Captain said issuing his revised orders he handed the piece of paper to his XO on it it stated Rachel's waters had broke and the Captain's child was on its way.  The ship quickly began to answer to the Captain's revized orders with everything going wrong in the world it seemed there was at least one bright spot.

Chapter Twenty-Seven

"Orders are made to be followed even if it means turning your back on glory to become the saviour of another" - Admiral Patrick Williams

December 2, 2067, 16:40 hours, Outside Paragumo Island, Bridge of the Sparta

On the bridge of the Sparta, a massive Floating Fortress vessel currently off the shore of Flag Admiral Duinhir’s island, a figure not really known in the politics of pirates was observing the smoking ruins of one of the greatest commanders on the Forsaken Seas. Rear Admiral Patrick Williams was a recently promoted officer, once the commander of a fleet of Sea Wolves that were now acting as escorts for Admiral Alalcomenous’ massive armada. Originally, this magnificent vessel was under the command of Alalcomenous’ second in command, Vice Admiral Themistocles. But as he was left in charge of Alalcomenous’ Outpost, codenamed Delphi, he took over command of the Sparta. With fiery red hair that was left long, but wrapped in a ponytail and piercing green eyes, his looks and personality were in stark contrast to the calm and collected Admiral Alalcomenous or the brooding and always plotting Themistocles.

“Rear Admiral, the Athens is hailing us,” said his communications officer Lieutenant Alexis Hastings, looking straight at the Rear Admiral as he sat in his command chair.

“Put it on speakers Lieutenant Commander,” Williams answered with a smile. He knew that the only reason Alalcomenous would hail him is if he decides to give him an assignment. And usually, Alalcomenous gives Williams the assignments that would most likely require heavy combat, something Williams delighted in.

“Alalcomenous to Sparta, are you receiving? Over”

Reaching up for the radio, Williams answered, “This is Sparta Actual, and we are receiving.”

“Proceed to coordinates 43311,188 and ascertain the condition of the island at those coordinates. There will most likely be some heavy fighting, so you are to bring your escorts. I want a full report as soon as you get information,” Alalcomenous answered, his voice collected and calm, yet seething with a fury Patrick never heard from the Admiral.

“Understood Admiral. Proceeding as ordered. Sparta out,” Williams said as Alexis disconnected the comms, “Alexis, patch me through to the Atropos and the Clotho.”

“Patching through to both ships,” Alexis answered. The Atropos and Clotho  were the flagships of both Sea Wolf Fleets Alalcomenous brought with him on his crusade, named after two of the Greek Goddesses of Fate. Which was appropriate as they have been through multiple battles and have determined the fate of many a Draconian and Forsaken, “You are patched in sir.”

“Williams to Clotho and Atropos, recieving? Over.”

“Clotho Actual reporting sir.”

“Atropos Actual receives you sir.”

“Both of your fleets are with me. Head to coordinates 43311,188 with Sparta and the rest of Beta Fleet,” Williams said, “Alexis, forward the coordinates to the rest of the fleet.”

The Sparta slowly moved forward, turning its massive bulk towards the general direction of the coordinates he received. The rest of the Sparta’s task force followed, cutting through the waves to their destination.

“Approximate travel time is thirty minutes sir,” reported the helmsman, Ensign Marcus Pace as Williams reclined back in his command chair with a smirk on his face. As mentioned before, this officer delighted in intense combat and the thought of destroying Draconian ships and advancing the glory of his people always brought a smile to his face.  Thirty minutes till battle. Thirty minutes till more Draconians fall to the Sparta’s guns

Meanwhile, a great menace was about to terrorize an unprepared island…

From across the seas, beyond the horizon, as some of the Forsaken people went about their business of survival in this world, two massive ships sailed towards an unknown destination. With hulls the color of darkest black and bristling with some of the largest and most technologically advanced weapons to ever make it to the high seas, these Dreadnoughts as the old world would classify such terrifying vessels were built to destroy almost anything in their path. And their path was taking them towards an island inhabited by what the Draconians call either an ‘old ally’ or ‘a gnat that hasn’t been killed in far too long’.

“Admiral Serka, we are coming up to our destination,” said the Draconian helmsman with obvious glee in his voice, even if it was distorted by the mask on his face.

A sinister chuckle responded to the helmsman from the Admiral himself. As Serka looked out the bridges bulletproof glass window atop his command chair, a feral glare was directed straight at the island, “Good helmsman, we’ll see to it that these Forsaken people get taught a lesson that will be etched into the survivor’s brains for all time. Signal red alert.  It is time we go into battle in the name of the Empire,” said Serka with what would be a sinister smile on his face as the klaxons started going all across his ship.

December 2, 2067, 16:41 hours, Captain Rowan Duinhir’s Outpost, Lookout Tower

“By God, what has come to us now?” said the lookout man as he saw through his telescope the two Dreadnoughts coming straight for the island Outpost of Flag Admiral Duinhir’s wife, Rowan. Unlike her husband, Rowan just wanted to be left in peace, though she knew maintaining a sizable fleet was necessary to survive in these harsh times. It was because of these differences that the two went their separate ways after Alalcomenous, their son was born. She didn’t want to play in Artan’s “war games”.

The lookout man hastily rang the bell behind him that signaled an impending attack and the inhabitants of the island knew what was coming and immediately dropped everything they were doing and ran for the bunkers nestled underground in case of an attack. The lookout man motioned for an Ensign to come near him as he hastily told the young boy, “Alert the Captain and do whatever she tells you to do. We got Draconian Dreadnoughts on the horizon”  The Ensign looked absolutely frightened by that statement. Even boys as young as him knew about the dreaded ship, the biggest one in the Draconians arsenal. Only time they ever sent these behemoths out was when a Forsaken person needed to be completely eradicated.  “Go kid! We have no time to lose!” shouted the lookout man due to the fact the Ensign was scared stiff.

As the Ensign ran towards the Captain’s HQ, the lookout man came down from his high perch and followed the civilians to the bunkers.  In Rowans Headquarters, as she was finishing up a few things of paperwork, she heard the bell ring outside and looked up from her papers. Immediately standing up and heading out of her office door, she knew something terrible was about to happen. As she stepped out of her Headquarters front door, the Ensign came screeching to a halt in front of her.  "What’s the problem Ensign?” She asked Calmly.

“D-D-Draconians mam. Draconian Dreadnoughts are coming,” he stammered, his knees shaking horribly due to fright.

Rowan’s eyes lowered to the young boy as she kneeled to his height, “We will be okay Ensign, just go alert the Gun crews to the approaching threat and then get to the shelters. We’ll ride this out just like any other threat,” she answered, in an attempt to lift the boy’s spirits in this time of crisis.  As the Ensign gulped and nodded his head before running in another direction, Rowan looked up towards the sky, as if expecting an answer to be written in the wispy cirrus clouds over her base.  We’ll ride this out like every other threat. I hope those words don’t come back to haunt me.

She thought as she made her way to the bunkers as well, but to a different part of the complex. Her underground CIC was built so in case of an invading fleet coming into her base, she can direct the bases defenses here and not be killed by any weapons fire. It also housed some of the technology she has left over from her days in the Republican guard, similar to the assets her husband and her son possessed.  Several of her top officers were already crowing a large table with a representation of her base, in three dimensions. This was another relic from her days in the Republican Guard, amazingly it still worked as well as it did in those days, thanks to her technicians miracle work.  With this piece of technology, they can actually see how the attack is going as it happens, “Status of the Draconian ships gentleman?”

“They will be entering the bases channels in 2 minutes mam,” answered a tall, lean young man with sandy blond hair and thin rimmed glasses, “What I’m wondering mam is, why did the Draconians send only 2 ships?”

“These are Dreadnoughts, Commander Todd. Two is more than enough firepower to bring against a well defended base. First, we need to send out a sector wide signal, giving our location coordinates. Alert them that another island is about to be attacked by the Draconians and request any assistance. Are our gun crew’s ready for the attack?"  She asked Todd nodded his answer “Good, we’ll fight this threat until we can’t fight no more,” Rowan answered as she watched the three dimensional interpretation of what was about to take place beyond her bunkers walls. As the anticipation builds, she watched the three dimensional Dreadnoughts come closer and closer to the mouth of her bases channel and just when they were in range of her bases missiles and mortar defenses she uttered only one word, “Fire.”

December 2, 2067, 16:47 hours, somewhere on the ocean, Bridge of the Sparta

“Rear Admiral, I am receiving a distress call. It’s playing on all channels,” said Hastings as Williams turned his command chair around to look at her.

“Play the message on speaker so I can hear it,” answered Patrick as he turned back around to look out at the seas ahead.

After pressing a couple of buttons, the entire bridge heard the relayed message from the distress call, “This is Rowan Duinhir’s base to all Forsaken people in the sector. We are under heavy Draconian attack. Our coordinates are 43311,188, please send help immediately. I repeat, we are under Draconian attack, our coordinates are 43311,118, please help us.”

As the message ended, the Rear Admiral said to the helmsman, “Pace, I want to coax as much speed as you can out of these engines. Go to emergency speed immediately. Hastings, patch a message to the rest of the fleet. Order them to speed up to the Sparta’s maximum speed immediately.

“With our new speed, we’ll be at Rowan’s base in ten minutes sir,” answered Ensign Pace as the Fortress experienced a sudden burst of speed along with the rest of the fleet. As the Sparta now made its way towards Rowan’s base with all haste, “Hastings, transmit this message to Rowan’s base,” Williams said as he added, “This is Task Force Sparta. Heading towards your coordinates as we speak. Approximate arrival time is ten minutes.”

December 2, 2067, 16:48 hours, Captain Rowan Duinhir’s Outpost, Bunker CIC

The CIC rumbled, forcing Rowan and her staff to grip the table hard so they didn’t fall over as the Dreadnoughts pounded away at her island defenses. In the first minute of the battle, already a couple of her turrets were destroyed and many lives were lost due to the sheer firepower of the Draconian ships. But in that same minute, she and her staff learned what kind of firepower they were facing.  “Mam, both Dreadnoughts have packed Siege Weaponry onto their hulls,” said one of her officers. Specifically, both Dreadnoughts carried a mixture of Siege Missiles, Mortars, Cannons, and one Dreadnought even has Siege Rockets. What was most worrying was both Dreadnoughts had back mounted Hailstorm Anti Mortar Turrets that made her Victory Mortar Turrets practically useless. Every time she saw those large base mortar shells rise up in the air along with the entire CIC’s hopes of salvation, their hopes were immediately dashed when the Hailstorms clawed them out of the skies. Meanwhile, her Sentinel Missiles were effectively reduced to mere spitballs and the only things even doing real damage where the shorter ranged Howitzers that were now shooting at the massive ships, the massive cannons making sizable holes in the incoming vessel's thick armour.

“It’s like our people’s worst nightmare coming true,” said Timothy Tiggs, another one of Rowan’s commanders. And to most of the people, whether they were in the CIC, in the attached bunkers, or fighting the Dreadnoughts, that comment was beginning to become fact. As more turrets exploded because their armor couldn’t take any more of the abuse the vessels were dishing out, their hopes of winning this battle were just as easily destroyed. Even the mighty Howitzer cannons barely slowed down the advancing juggernaughts as they finally navigated the gauntlet that sank so many other vessels before them and reached the inside of the base.

“Both Dreadnoughts have made it through the defensive batteries Captain. Both have taken moderate damage, but are still mostly combat effective,” said Commander Todd, “Now they have free reign to trash our entire base.”

Rowan nodded she could see it playing out like a game in front of her.  “They’re starting with our docks,” Rowan pointed out as multiple Siege Missiles exploded inside the piers, taking a majority of the vessels moored within, effectively decimating Rowan’s fleet. The ground shook while Siege Mortars leveled important buildings, such as Rowan’s headquarters, her advanced technology building, and even the main hub of her intelligence network. The Draconians left nothing but smoking craters and burning rubble in the wake of their onslaught. But beneath the gloom of the situation, a silver lining began to appear.

“Rowan, we got fifteen incoming contacts. 5 of them about the size of our Floating Fortress, the rest much smaller,” said the sensor operator, the report pulling Rowan away from the Draconians trashing her beloved home and towards the officer.

“Are they friend or foe?” she asked hastily as she observed the multiple blips moving quickly towards her base.

As soon as she said that, the comms operator answered, “They’re hailing us, better put them on speakers.”

“Captain Rowan this is Rear Admiral Patrick Williams of the Task Force Sparta. I see I haven’t arrived too late to save what’s left of your base and your people. My fleet will take things from here.”

“It seems our distress signal has reached somebody after all,” said the comms operator the relief in his voice clear for everyone in the room to hear, a feeling that quickly spread they had been harmed but they would survive.
   
December 2, 2067, 16:58 hours, Draconian Dreadnought Alpha, Bridge

“Admiral Serka, incoming contacts. Fifteen in all. Several of them big,” said the radar operator on the lead Draconian Dreadnought. After the exhilarating feel of crushing a Forsaken base under his iron soled boots, the Draconian Admiral got a rude awakening in the form of unknown contacts coming straight for his ships. Clenching his hands into tight fists, he banged them against the armrests of his command chair.

“How dare these Forsaken scum try to ruin my moment of glory. Order our sister ship to turn around and head out of the base. We’ll have to crush these fools too before we can consider our mission complete.”

December 2, 2067, 16:58 hours, Captain Rowan Duinhir’s Outpost, Bunker CIC

“Both Draconian Dreadnoughts are turning around and moving out of the base Captain. It seems we will be safe,” said Commander Tiggs as they observed the large ships turn as gracefully as their massive hulls would allow them to.  But it was far too late, the damage has already been done, the lives had been lost.   Rowan knew her base would be crippled for weeks, her people's morale hurt, her fleets in pieces.  As far as the Draconian’s mission was concerned, it was a success. But if things go well for Task Force Sparta, they won’t get any further than the waters around her base.   The Rear Admiral better sink those Draconian bastards before I get my hands on them Rowan thought to herself watching the contacts move away. Although she was not a vengeful woman most days, today was especially different, the Draconians came to her island and trashed it and unless the Rear Admiral eliminated these Draconians first she wanted revenge.

December 2, 2067, 16:58 hours, outside Rowan’s Outpost, Bridge of the Sparta

“General Quarters, General Quarters. Man your battle stations boys. This is not a damn drill!”  Shouted the voice of the Rear Admiral across the entire ship as crew members got out of bunks, climbed up and down ladders and stairs, and manned their stations as ordered. Meanwhile, at the Bridge, the Rear Admiral was grinning devilishly at the thought of the upcoming battle. As reports flooded in that all of the ships in his fleet were ready for combat, he then proceeded with his battle plans to take these two Dreadnoughts down.

“Hastings, patch this to all fleet Captains,” Williams said before he spoke, “Clotho, take your fleet east and form a pincer around these behemoths. Atropos, do the same but go west. As for the Sparta and her escorts, we are charging straight in. All ships go to maximum combat speed.”  Williams counted on his ships armor to save him from the worse of the damage, but the Sea Wolves that were with him did not have such protection, so they would have to gun their engines to the max in order to survive this fight hitting the flanks of the slower less nimble Dreadnoughts.  The smaller ships acclerated away from the Sparta and her sister ships brought their weapons in line with the enemy including a single seige mortar, what would follow would be a spectacular clash that both sides would remember.

“We are approaching maximum mortar range sir,” said the Sparta’s Tactical Officer, Manfred Friedmont.

“Fire all!!!”  All five Floating Fortress let loose with a mighty thunderous boom as a hailstorm of mortars arced into the air and started coming down on the enemy ships. As the five ships fired, so did the Draconians, with both their Siege Mortars and the Missiles they also carried. Three out of four missiles spent themselves on the Sparta and her sister ship, the Argos, but the damage wasn’t as severe due to the special Reactive Plating Admiral Alalcomenous commissioned all his best warships with.  Hailstorms on both sides turned their muzzles up into the air and shot at the incoming mortars coming down to destroy their respective ships. While the Sparta and her escorts were able to shoot down all of the Dreadnought’s mortars, the Draconian’s weren’t so lucky as most of the mortars either exploded on their hulls or in close proximity to them.  The Dreadnoughts already damaged were continuing to take a pounding.

“Sir!  The Argos reports minor damage to her hull, but no hull breaches yet. The Sparta received similar damage. Both Dreadnoughts took moderate damage, but both are still seaworthy and continuing to close.”

“Order the fleet to perform the Death Fan maneuver immediately,” said Williams. The Death Fan was a maneuver that Admiral Alalcomenous made sure to teach every single one of his officers to perform. The praise was coined by his father and it was a favorite among both of their fleets. Not only did it minimize the damage done by mortars, but it forced the enemy to split his fire among two different ships while the other three can fire on him unmolested.  As the orders were passed the five Fortresses began to open gaps in their ranks forcing the Draconian gunners to pick specific targets.

"Both Wolf Fleets are at the zenith of their Pincers, Rear Admiral. They are proceeding to commence their attack runs," said Hastings. Williams simply grinned with eagerness as he watch the Draconian Dreadnoughts fire another salvo of missiles at his ships.

"Both Wolf fleets have full permission to fire at will, but stay at maximum Cutlass range, they are the distraction our gunners are the ones that will kill the Draconians, Alalcomenous will never forgive me if I lose his Wolves," answered Rear Admiral Williams as the bridge shook from another salvo of Siege Missiles. Inside, he was thankful for the Fortresses well armored hull.  As Lieutenant Hastings relayed his orders, Williams watched as both fleets turned towards the two Dreadnoughts with a grace that belied their size. The compact hull carried the firepower of a Leviathan, but the specially made engines made it much faster, at the cost of significant armor protection. This made Sea Wolves one of the most deadly, if fragile, ships afloat. As a previous Captain of a Sea Wolf class vessel, he knew it's strengths and weaknesses and how to best use the ships in a combat situation, in many ways Williams missed his Wolf, the ship had long been retired to Alalcomenous' reserve forces now defending their homes no longer considered a front-line combat ship it still held a place in Williams heart.

As he remissed about the things he had lost in the passed he was snapped back onto the future as the Sea Wolves entered weapons range all convergong on the Dreadnoughts, within moments no less then fifty large Cutlass Missiles flew from their launchers and begun to seek their targets. Even at maximum firing range both of the Draconian Dreadnoughts recieved no less than twenty missile hits on their armoured hulls.  Both of the dark vessles were coated in fire and for a member Williams thought they had been destroyed however as the flames cleared the massive vessels continued forward  "Both Dreadnoughts are still afloat sir, but they have recieved heavy damage from that barrage."

"By God, that barrage would of sunken all other ships. What kind of armor are they built with?" asked Rear Admiral Williams to nobody in particular. He knew that the Sea Wolf captains would use their speed to avoid return mortar fire and to come back around for another strike, but due to the Cutlass Missiles slower reload time they were momentarily unable to engage their enemy.  The enemy commander didn't allow this time to go to waste.

December 2, 2067, 17:03hours, outside Rowan’s Outpost, Bridge of Dreadnought Alpha

Serka smiled deviously after his ship took an entire barrage of mortars and Cutlass Missiles and survived through it. Another trick the Draconians had up their sleeves and the secret to their amazing endurance was within their armor. Compound Armor was the result of taking some of the defensive properties of Reactive, Ablative, and Layered armor and melding them together. It didn't provide as much protection as any of the original defensive armor, but it still makes a ship very hard to kill, especially when utilized with Draconian Zynthonite Armor.  There was a reason the Draconians held an Imperial Empire and the Forsaken Captains were considered pirates, the Draconians superior intellect and skills had been put to good use since their independance from their creators.

"Your turn is up Forsaken scum, now it's our move."  He said treating the engagement like a game of chess trying to keep one move ahead of their opponent "Tactical, target the Sea Wolves coming across our bow with our Siege Missiles," said Admiral Serka with malicious intent.

"Aye Admiral," answered Serka's tactical officer as two large missiles sprung from their launchers and streaked towards their prey. Their sister ship added their own missiles aiming towards another Sea Wolf and shot their Siege Mortars as well.  The firepower was massive enough to shake a bases defences to pieces against the little armoured Wolves they would be even more deadly.

"Your move," Serka said to himself. Though both he and Patrick were on different ships, in reality, they might as well be standing on the opposite sides of the same room, looking over the same map moving the same pieces like two men playing a game at their park's chess table, before the Great War.  Serka had not seen that time nor had any other but he had read about those fleeting peaceful days, sometimes he wondered if Kixeye had not come along, if the world had survived what would his life have been?  He struggled to imagine living a peaceful life.

December 2, 2067, 17:04 hours, outside Rowan’s Outpost, Bridge of the Sparta

As both Dreadnoughts fired on the speedy wolves, Rear Admiral Williams watched two Sea Wolves take the hard hitting Siege Missiles straight to their starboard sides. For an FF, it isn't so bad of a hit, but for a Sea Wolf, that was a like a critical hit, a crippling blow against their light armour. Flames erupted from the vessels as the missiles hit tearing massive chunks out of the small destroyers, the Wolves own missiles tried to return fire sending out another salvo of missiles as they retreated just barely escaping the Draconian mortar fire.

Williams was speechless. In the space of seconds, two of his Sea Wolves were already critically damaged and couldn't continue to fire, one fifth of his flanking force effectively eliminated.   It was fortunate the Wolf's missiles didn't ignite under the seige missile hits, if the fire had reached them his vessels would have been torn to pieces by their own ammunition in a disasterous explosion.  But the damage done still made Patrick furious, slamming his fist on his command chair's armrest, a look of hatred that could of been birthed from the pits of hell itself, he shouted to his helmsman.

"Ensign!!! Ramming speed!!! Target the Dreadnoughts!!! Fire all weapons!!!" growled the Rear Admiral. Marcus Pace didn't even question the Rear Admiral's suddenly foul temper as he revved up the Sparta's engines and she slowly picked up speed.  Quickly the Sparta pulled a lead on his other ships.

"Sir, the Argos is hailing us, asking if the fleet should follow your lead?" said Hastings hesitantly. Williams quickly spun his chair around to face her before he answered.

"Yes. I want those Dreadnoughts blown straight out of the water. We have lost some of our best men to those Draconian monsters and so help me, as the commanding officer of this task force, I will not stand for these losses. And I certainly will not allow anymore lives to perish," answered Williams as he turned his chair back around and stared intently at the Dreadnoughts taking and dealing punishment. A loud boom erupted overhead as mortars shot from the tubes on the Floating Fortress and arced straight towards the Draconian vessels.

December 2, 2067, 17:06 hours, outside Rowan’s Outpost, Bridge of Dreadnought Alpha

"Sir, the Floating Fortresses have picked up speed. They seem to be on a collision course with our ships," said the Tactical officer before their weapons spewed fire into the sky, "Mortars also incoming."

"Shoot down as many as possible and get ready for some heavy combat. make sure the Rockets are fueled and ready to fire and our cannons are loaded," said Serka as both Dreadnoughts opened fire on the mortars with their Anti Mortar guns, clawing a few out of the sky, it wasn't enough the shells broke through his defences and began to explode either with direct hits or close proximity strikes. Without their Compound Armor, the ships would of been completely destroyed by the splash damage from multiple mortar hits. Unfortunately even with the Compound Armour they didn't get away completely unscathed, as several of the massive ship's turrets were smashed into broken heaps of metal.

"Both Siege Missiles turrets, and our Siege Mortars are destroyed sir. Our sister ship reports a similar loss in firepower," said Admiral Serka's Tactical officer.  As the titans crept closer and closer the mighty vessels were bombarded by missile and mortar fire.  Serka ordered all his remaining weapons to continue to fire, three more of the Forsaken Wolves took strikes from Seige Missile fire crippling the vessels.  Now the Dreadnought's closer weapons were in range of the Fortresses closing on them.  "All personnel, brace for immediate impact!!!" Serka shouted realizing the suicidal charge his enemy was on.

December 2, 2067, 17:10 hours, outside Rowan’s Outpost, Bridge of the Sparta

The Sparta and her escorts all took heavy hits and the three more Sea Wolves limping away made Rear Admiral Williams rage boil over, "Order the remaining Wolves to retreat immediately," he growled as the bridge rocked from several powerful Rockets smashing into the Sparta's hull tearing into the ship's depleated uranium armour.

"Hull breached Rear Admiral. Decks One through Five are reporting major fires burning, Damage control teams have been mobilized, Primary Weapons Control report Hailstorm Turret A is destroyed, Shockwave Mortars 1 and 3 are offline damaged but not destroyed. Siege Mortar Turret severaly damaged, probably non fuctional. Communications disrupted however our sister ships look almost as badly damaged," said Sergio.

"Impact with the Dreadnoughts in ten second sir," said Marcus as the Sparta was now so close to his enemy that he could see all of the damage he has inflicted on the Draconian vessel. It was a miracle either fleet was still able to move, much less continue fighting.  The Fortress' Arrowhead shaped hull plowed ito the port side of the Dreadnought, metal screached and tore as the vessels impacted, the Sparta's entire hull twisting under the impact, the heavily damaged Dreadnought was opened to the sea by the impact and begun to take on water.  Alongside her sister the Argos smashed into the other Dreadnought tearing into the other vessel, both Fortress and Dreadnoughts were locked together their metal twisted together into completely immobile.

Somehow Williams hairbrained idea had worked "Order the rest of the fleet to fire on the Dreadnoughts now," he ordered knowing that the Sparta and Argoes would take damage from the fire as well, there was little chance that his Fortresses could avoid damage from the incoming splash damage. Such tactics were par for the course with this officer in command most of the citizens of the Delphi Outpost believed Patrick was downright crazy for utilizing such brutal tactics to win fights. But in his mind, anything goes in war, Even if it meant being in the middle of a bombardment under fire from their own weapons.

December 2, 2067, 17:14 hours, outside Rowan’s Outpost, Bridge of Dreadnought Alpha

"Hull breaches on decks 6-10 sir, we're taking on water Bravo reports they are also taking on water," said Admiral Serka's Tactical officer. The Dreadnought was still alive, but the Fortress that just rammed into them had imobilized them making the Dreadnought a sitting duck now water was rushing about the vessels, and worse news was coming.

"Sir, we are being surrounded by the enemy fleet.  Incoming ordinance!" the Radar operator shouted her suit amplifying her warning throughout the command deck her fear obvious to everyone it sickened Serka that his people had fallen so farto allow fear to overtake them.  Stalking across the command deck in purposeful strides he pulled the officer from her station throwing her to the deck, Serka had a fearful physical presence it was one of the reasons he'd been given command of the Dreadnoughts.

"Is there no end to the Forsaken people's madness? Does my opponent know he's putting his own life and his people's lives in danger?"  Serka screamed anger erupting  As he hurridly turned around back to his chair, he saw the unmistakable flashes of weapons fire and knew this was the end.  He walked calmly back to his chair sitting down "everyone, abandon ship!!! Let our brother and sisters know of this battle and of its outcome," said Admiral Serka. As his bridge slowly emptyed he sat looking straight ahead at the incoming missiles and mortars coming to tear apart his ship.   "Looks like the better commander won this fight. Now let's you win this war," he said as his world went up in flames.

December 2, 2067, 17:20 hours, outside Rowan’s Outpost, Bridge of the Sparta

The bridge crew of the Sparta watched as the Dreadnought they had rammed into began to burn and tear itself to pieces under multiple impacts as the goliath's armour was overwhelmed and crushed under the weapons fire.  Unfortunately their view of the destruction was not completely safe the massive splash damage from the mortar fire and the explosion of the dreadnought tore into the Sparta's hull the massive Fortress was rocked heavily with more systems destroyed or disabled.  Unlike the first Dreadnought the second vessel which was locked with the Argos began to take on massive amounts of water, slowly the ship slid off the Fortress and begun to slip under the waves.  It was over.  "No other enemy contacts sir, the seas are safe for now," reported Hastings as the Rear Admiral calmed down a little and looked around at his battered bridge and his crew how many had he lost?  How many more of the injured would perish?  Mission achomplished but at a frightful cost.

"Communications, Patch a message to Rowan. We need to help with the searching of survivors and discuss rebuilding and assess damage on both her base and our fleet. Send a salvage crew to comb through the wreckage. We need samples of their armor for research purposes,  Have our operational Wolves recover our crippled ships and rendevoux here, we're not moving for a while."

December 2, 2067, 22:53 hours, Rowan's Island Outpost

Hours went by as the search for survivors among the wreckage of what was once a proud Forsaken Outpost continued well into the night. The entire island was turned into an imprompteu hospital treating anything from minor wounds to near death injuries. Hundreds had been lost and the damage that was done would take months to fully rebuild. As Rowan and Patrick eventually found out, the vast majority of Rowan's her fleet could be salvaged from the shallow depths of her island waters, for now however she only had 5 surviving vessels that were mostly unscratched.  Two of them were her own Fortresses, Patrick informed Rowan of a similar disaster happening to her husbands island and what was going on within the Forsaken Seas as Rowan preferred to keep to herself.

"Sorry I couldn't help out anymore Captain, but my own ships took a heavy beating and need repairs. I also have to file a casualty report to Admiral Alalcomenous and perform burial ceremonies for the fallen," said Rear Admiral Patrick as he and Rowan oversaw the continued rebuilding of her world.

"It's quite alright. My people have faced similar catastrophes before and survived, we are used to our world being torn down. We will do so again, at least the crates you did give us will help us with our reconstruction efforts," answered Rowan. Though her base was in shambles, homes can be rebuilt, it's the lives that are lost that can't be replaced easily. Good thing her people didn't suffer complete annahilation.

"The world is changing Captain, we have to adapt or we will all perish. If there was a time when Darwinism would be most accepted, it would be in times like this," Williams commented, "I have done preliminary research on a sample of armor that my salvage teams recovered and found out some interesting things about it."

"Really?" asked Rowan quizzically.

"Indeed, it seems the Draconians have found a way to combine the effects of Layered Armor, Reactive Armor, and Ablative Armor to create a kind of Compound Armor that provides defense against all kinds of surface weapons. Combine it with their Zynthonite armor and they are able to walk through nearly any base with their best ships. If we can reverse engineer this technology, we can gain a significant edge against them in this war," answered Williams just as he noticed an Ensign stop right beside them. Apparently he had something urgent to report, "Ensign, can i help you?"

"Yes, a message was just patched through. it came from Senator Michaels island. You need to hear it sir," answered the Ensign as he hurried back to the ship.

"Can I use your CIC for this Captain?" asked Williams to Rowan. He knew something was going on and it was going to be big. Bigger than this entire sector.

"Come with me Rear Admiral," Rowan answered as she led him towards her bunker Headquarters, which now serves as her office until reconstruction efforts are complete.
   
December 2, 2067, 22:58 hours, Rowan's Island Outpost Command

Recovery efforts had all but finished as people gathered to listen to the message from Michaels Island from the highest ranked member of Rowan's staff to the youngest survivor everyone was gathered around the room listening "Ladies and Gentlemen of Sector 73, for years the Draconians have been a menace to cause us problems and cause us pain.  We have survived as Pirates of the High Seas, praying on each other and any Draconian sorry to stray into our weapons fire."  The voice said Williams recoignized it as the Captain of Michaels Island he had a carismatic manner by him that easily matched his Island's military which although small had been shown to be powerful "today I call for everyone to raise their arms and join us in saying NO LONGER!  We are all citizens of this world, we all deserve the chance to live our lives in peace and to be free of the tyranical Draconian Imperial Empire and their allies.  Anyone that stands against us helps them.  Today our forces gather at Bob Epps base on the border with Sector 72, any forces that wish to join us are welcome.  Together we will sail to Sector 1, a United Expeditionary Fleet, one force dedicated to the freedom of the Forsaken peoples."  The Captain said "Standing together as one people with one voice we can survive the Draconians and bring a new age for the people of this world.  We will wait three weeks for your forces to join us then we sail, soon our enemies will hear our voice or face our weapons."  Without another word the communication silenced and slowly a murmour spread throughout the room, Rowan and Williams just looked at each other realizing that throughout the sector people would likely be thinking and doing the same thing wondering what this new plan and charge would bring them.

"I think the road has been laid Admiral."  Rowan said quietly as if a path had been drawn out across the sea, she quietly wondered if it led to peace or to oblivion.

"But not for us Captain" Williams said "neither your people nor mine are in any shape to continue, now our friends and our family must continue this fight."  He said finally realizing himself that the Sparta nor her sisters would be able to make any long journeys or engage in more battle for many weeks.  "My people will follow Admiral Alalcomenous order's and remain on station and help your people recover, if the UEF fails perhaps we will need to become a core for a new resistance."

"I thank you for the offer Admiral, your people are very welcome to stay as long as they feel they are needed."  Rowan said quietly she knew her son and husband would be involved in the fighting, she silently prayed for their safety before returning to her own people's needs, it would be a busy few weeks for everyone.