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Star Control (Chenjesu, Syreen, Ur-Quan, Supox, Druuge...)

Fantasy in SPACE (Wood elves, dark elves, dwarves...)

Something something, human military goes conquer xenos?

[Loud Whispers]

I'm just relieved Lennenkampf managed to atone for Scheidt's embarassing display. Speak no ill of the dead but... Losing to stone age Czyrni? A disgrace to the invincible Galactic Empire.

_{And it's going to feel great once Tachyon lances are fitted to the Iserlohns}

[Haspen]

Chapter 10: Xeno-Relations and Xeno-Archeology; Death of Kaiserin Elizabeth, the Short Reign of Kaiser Friedrich and Discovery of Zron Starzone

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

11.02.2380

Recent developments and expansion of the Imperial borders unearths more and more ancient ruins.

Xeno-Archeology Department is enlarged by inclusion of Stern II, under command of Rudolf von Westpfale, to investigate excavation sites on the Galactic Rim.

This will allow Elisabeth von Stockhausen to concentrate on digging up Zroni sites in the meanwhile.



01.03.2380

A classified meeting between Imperial Intelligence Agency and the Kaiserin occurs at this date.

Led by Manfred Müller, the IIA will concentrate on finding out more about Ketlings, covertly, especially to learn how they were able to cause a diplomatic scandal that involved Imperial Envoy Reinhard Kamhuber so easily.



05.06.2380

A report by Ministry of Internal Affairs has uncovered something about the energy credits income - the strength of pirates on some longer trade routes is actually higher than suppression rates of Patrol Squadrons.

Imperial Admiralty has decided to increase the amount of K1 Corvettes from 6 to 12 to combat this issue. Reinforcement orders were sent to Sirius and Sol shipyards few days later.



22.12.2380

With new intel pouring in from Ketling Star Pack, the Imperial Intelligence Agency was allowed to go further.

Operations to acquire assets within the Ketlings.



11.03.2381

1st and 2nd Fleets receive a confidential dispatch order, sending them to Baidaan Starzone, and then to Aludra Fortress.

The local Starbase is ordered to expand its size and add 4 Iserlohn Defense Platforms as well.




02.07.2381

Both colonies, Haphen and Merkatz, begin their operations at this date.



29.04.2383

Another confidential meeting between Imperial Intelligence Agency and the Kaiserin occurs.

Few days later, Ministry of Energy Finances receives yet another request to transfer credits to IIA.



01.01.2384

Bülow colony becomes operational and while Ministry of Planetary Development wished to make it a food-producing place, Kaiserin Elizabeth personally ordered it to become a centre of colonial bureaucracy.



02.08.2384

Kaiserin Elizabeth has announced that new administrative reforms will take place soon.

New palaces and offices are under construction at the capital planet Odin (with others planets to follow), and numerous nobles are scheduled audiences with the Kaiserin in coming years.

Most imprortantly, Kaiserin has met with representatives of National Evolvement Association, and agreed to lift the suppression order in coming months in exchange for their supports for her planned reforms.



06.10.2384

Shortly after the administrative reforms are announced, Kaiserin Elizabeth orders creation of new offices that will help the Galactic Empire prosper.

These will be created to improve the overall economy of the Empire - to prevent shortages of previous decades - as well as boost planetside trade and construction.





28.11.2384

A serie of coded orders sent to 1st and 2nd Fleet become public knowledge when the news of Battle of Ydra Starzone arrive in Odin along with reports of great mineral and energy hauls recovered from the seized cargo ships.

Kaiserin Elizabeth appears on holovision channels the same day, decrying the Caravansary Caravaneer Coalition as the ones threatening Imperial economy the most.



08.12.2384

A new task force is sent to Ebbanaur Starzone, with orders to destroy and disperse the Caravaneers in Chor's Compass Starzone.

3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th Fleets were sent there, under command of Admiral Annerose Fugenberch.

1st and 2nd Fleets are returning to Sol Starzone for repairs in the same time.



03.03.2385

Following development of new time of superiority fighters, the Imperial Admiralty's Design Bureau created a new Cruiser design: the Morgensperling.

It is a testbed not only for the new fighters, but also the viability of Crystalline Hull Plating component, which decreases armor rating but improves structural integrity of warships.

Additionally, the UV Laser arrays at front are replaced by the powerful and devastating Cloud Lightning cannon

7th and 8th Fleets were ordered to undergo refits of their outdated Kleiner Prinz cruisers into this newest design to take them on few test cruises.



02.07.2385

Lügen colony begins its operations.

It was given a designation of an agriculture planet, just like Bülow colony was planned to be before its re-designation.



01.01.2386

Elisabeth von Stokchausen of Xeno-Archeology Department reports success with the site at Shulmak VIc.

She was ordered by the Kaiserin to excavate ruins at nearby Tiuz A 1a site, then to pursue further Zroni sites.




09.05.2387

The imperial task force sent to Char's Compass has reported engaging with the Caravaneers.




20.05.2387

The destruction of Racket Industrial Enterprise fleet should send a strong message to the Ketlings.

With the fleet out of the way, the Battle of Chor's Compass Starzone becomes much easier for the combined Imperial Fleets.



07.06.2387

It ends in Imperial victory and destruction of the Coalition. The losses are surprisingly focused on our Knappstein destroyers, with a total of 10 lost in combat.

Weapon debris from the battle is analyzed by crew of Entdeckung, commanded by Dietrich von Thurneysen.




17.11.2387

The administrative reform announced by Kaiserin Elizabeth takes place.

It bestows numerous priviledges upon Imperial Nobility, and even gives a much wider degree of autonomy to Grand Duchy of Basel.



22.03.2390

Imperial Admiralty announces plans to decentralize the Fleet Command.

Bussim Starzone will become a shipyard zone, and the 2nd Fleet under command Willibald Joachim Falstrong will be stationed there.

Furthermore, the Admiralty commissions the 9th Fleet, similar in size and composition to the smaller Fleets. Its command was assigned to Admiral Theodor Jahnnar, who climbed in ranks and experience very quickly in recent years while in command of 4th Patrol Squadron.



10.04.2390

Recent promotion of Siegfried Flegel, a paranoiac, to the position of Head of Society Research Department was considered a clerk error by many.

It proved to be a major advantage when he imagined a way to distill Zro for purposes of its industrial acquisition.



01.07.2390

Althought Imperial Admiralty's holovision priviledges were lifted previously, death and funeral of Admiral Annerose Fugenberch was an exception.

Her illustrious career spanned almost ninety years, and she was the last one of the so-called 'Young Admiral Clique', in particular its second 'set' promoted to rank of Admiral by Kaiser Erwin at the very end of previous century.

The command of 3rd Fleet passed to Admiral Bernhard Sanders, and the now-vacant post as commander of 6th Patrol Squadron went to Gerhard Saucken, who was promoted to rank of Admiral at the very young age of 28.



27.11.2391

Martial Supremacy Alliance is the most popular faction amongst Imperial citizenry.

Even the Noble Priviledge Vanguard, headed by Kaiserin Elizabeth, is quite far beyond.



06.02.2392

Imperial Government implements the Empire-wide Standarized Construction Templates.

There are rumors that standarization might lead to creation of new governmental agencies.



28.05.2392

Elisabeth von Stokchausen finishes the work on Tiz A 1a site.

She was immediately ordered to excavate Zroni ruins on Mareid B III.



02.10.2392

Under the genius leadership of Margareta Fummel, the Engineering Research Department has been successful in obtaining many L-Gate insights.

When a new theory was found to be viable, Empress Elizabeth personally ordered the department to pursue it. Soon the Humanity would gain access to the enigmatic L-Cluster.



05.11.2393

Kaiserin Elizabeth has decreed that to further Humanity's expansion, we must first conquer our own biology.

Although some express fears that this might lead to a new wave of elitism and discrimination, many are overjoyed that cell revitalization and other such measures will be more publicly available.



29.03.2394

The Drewentz-class Destroyers were the last hold-overs of previous era of technology, and not widely used in Imperial Fleets anyway.

Imperial Admiralty, in spirit of recent attempts at efficiency and standarization everywhere, has ordered 7th and 8th Fleet to undergo refits of their Destroyers to the Knappstein-class.



05.12.2396

Kaiserin Elizabeth Goldenbaum dies at age 96.

Her successor is Friedrich, her younger brother, without a heir. Imperial Household Agency was tasked with finding an appropriate successor from amongst Friedrich's cousins.



02.01.2397

Given the Kaiser's advanced age, the IHA couldn't afford to be picky in its deliberations.

Therefore, Katarine, a distant relative and great-granddaughter of Erwin, the second Kaiser, is given the priviledge and honour of becoming Kronprinzessin.



02.02.2398

Kaiser Friedrich personally ordered the pursuit of Cyto-Revitalization techniques, partially to pursue late Elisabeth's own interests. To ensure swift expansion of genetic clinics' equipment, the selling of excess Exotic Gas was immediately prohibited.

Franz von Thurneysen has been in the same time appointed Head of Society Research Department following the untimely death of Siegfried Flegel.

Several prominent members of the court did not fail to realize that, recently, von Thurneysen family is growing in power in the Empire.



05.08.2398

One of Kaiser Friedrich's sparse and infrequent edicts was the establishment of Public Works Division.

This agency would greatly improve population density potential on the numerous Imperial planets.



15.08.2398

Rudolf von Westpfale's first assignment in Xeno-Archeology Department was probably the most significant one.

Not only his team finds the homeworld of the so-called Curator Order, but also the bioweapon their ancestors tried to tame.

The Knighthood Ceremony that was given in honour of Rudolf von Westpfale would be Kaiser Friedrich's last public appearance.



24.11.2398

Death of Kaiser Friedrich was something that was expected and therefore did not disrupt the society that much.

Kaiserin Katarine in her first holovid speech has proclaimed her agenda of National Purity: "Stronger families! Stronger Humanity! Stronger Empire! The era of weakness must make way to the age of superiority for our species!"

The next day Imperial Household Agency announced that her cousin, Elizabeth, was made Kronprinzessin.



22.12.2398

Following several re-assignments and retirements within its ranks, the Imperial Admiralty has announced that Imperial Fleets will increase presence of Cruisers in their rosters.

While the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Fleets are already well-established, it became that 4th Fleet would be the first to follow the new Cruiser-centric policy.

Next, the 7th Fleet, with its Morgensperlings, would be enlarged as well.




14.02.2399

An incredible find by Elisabeth von Stockhausen propels her to fame and glory.

Not only the true nature of Zro is discovered by her team, the ruins contain coordinates of Zroni homeworld.

Kaiserin Katarine ordered the immediate survey of Zron Starzone as well as its inclusion into Imperial territories.



06.12.2399

An explosion that almost claims the life of Rudolf von Westpfale is on the lips of many Imperial citizens.

Although he survived and his condition was stabilized, he would die of complications less than a month later.

His excavations were continued by Christine Saucken, a roboticist and member of Stern II's crew.



01.01.2400

The history of Galactic Empire of Goldenbaum Dynasty is entering its third century.

With technologies exotic and marvelous being researched, new dangers and new challenges await the Humanity during their pursuit of galactic superiority.

And the greatest of them all: the mysterious L-Cluster.

TO BE CONTINUED...

[Haspen]

Chapter 11: Dessanu Consonance of the L-Cluster and Kaiserin Katarin's Dreams of the Superior Human

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

19.01.2400

A strange tubular entity appears in orbit of the Lügen colony.

After a meeting between Imperial Admiralty and Kaiserin Katarin, a new dispatch was announced for 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th Fleets under command of Admiral Jakob Barthauser. 1st remains stationed at Sol Starzone while 4th is undergoing reinforcements at Sirius.

This combined task force will first rally at Sheliak Starzone, two Hyperlanes away from Crimdor Starzone where the colony is located.



04.02.2400

Engineering Research Department finalizes the possible solution for the L-Gate problem.

Once Physics Research Department finishes with their current military project, they will develop the software to allow the Imperial starship to reach the L-Cluster.



01.05.2401

Although not as great of a colonizer than late Elizabeth, Kaiserin Katarin announces that high-habitability planets will be colonized.

Currently, this amounts to Gozam IIc, and a colony ship is under construction at Sol Shipyards.



10.08.2402

Yon Starzone has been claimed by the Galactic Empire.

Immediately, Yon III is designated for colonization. Its primed with isolated valleys and alien predators, and some noblemen clamor to make it a leisure planet for hunting and summer villas.




06.05.2404

After a long trek through the Imperial territories, the combined fleets finally arrive at Crimdor Starzone.

The battle against the 'Enigmatic Cache' commences, and ends abruptly when the Cache, damaged by the Imperial starfighters, warps out. During the battle, Admiral Theodor Jahnnar suffered a fatal heart attack, marking him the only casualty of this entire engagement.

The Cache was tracked to Grand Duchy of Basel, whose government officials report no hostility from the strange being. Imperial Fleets were ordered to return to their respective Starzones.



12.07.2404

Education and Recycling campaigns are over and Kaiserin Katarin has decided to add her own idea to it.

Using the enigmatic cache's apparent indestructability and the Ketlings' plotting, the Kaiserin believes this will bring Humanity closer and keep the aliens away.



03.05.2405

Despite attempts to find and fight a mighty foe, Kaiserin Katarin has to spend her time on administrative operations and bureaucracy.

It is evident that this does not sit well with her spirit, as Imperial Envoys were instructed to concentrate their efforts to disrupt Ketlings' way of life.



08.08.2405

Kaiserin Katarin even begins sponsoring esoteric research projects, including this one about the Zroni.

Head of Society Research Department, Franz von Thurneysen, began the research with great enthusiasm, hoping to match his ancestors with equally important breakthrough in the field of Physics.




02.01.2406

The success of Franz von Thurneysen's research is somewhat shadowed by the scandal that erupted within the Imperial Government.

The matter of lost encryption key is quickly classified, and some people are demoted and even fired from the government.



01.02.2406

A matter of intermittent signals of Huph Wormhole resurfaced when the sensors onboard Huph Starzone Outpost begin to pick them up.

It seemed that the Imperial Science Directorate, in charge of assigning orders to science vessels and Departments, forgot about it.

Rosalein Greiss, currently overseeing research network in orbit above Odin, was dispatched with science vessel Botanik II to probe the wormhole and investigate the signals.



04.04.2406

Christine Saucken of Xeno-Archeology Department has finished investigating the OD1N-66 asteroid.

Despite her success, she has become very stubborn and hard to work with, according to crewmembers of Stern II.

Nonetheless, she was given Imperial order to investigate the Moor-Hsettu planet within Orvall Starzone.



03.06.2406

Finally, the L-Gate Project was finished. The target of the activation procedure is Urakhannon's Maw.

With all science vessels in vicinity currently preoccupied, a new one was built: Entdeckung III.

Its command was given to Maximillian Josef Schrer, an aspiring archeologist, as the Imperial Government believes there might be ruins of the L-Gate creators within the Cluster to explore.

For safety, the returning Imperial Fleets (3, 5, 6, 7, were directed to spectate the activation process when they emerge from Pharrim Wormhole.



01.01.2407

A major discovery occurs in the waters of Kohlrausch colony; an ancient orbital station has been found in the depths.

Elisabeth von Stockhausen was tasked with immediate excavation of the debris after she finishes her work at Zron Prime.



16.02.2407

Diplomatic scandal erupts within the higher circles of nobility when Grand Duchy of Basel decides to embrace the values of peace and prosperity over maintaining the great warrior spirit of the Humanity.

Although this sours the relationship between the autonomous Duchy and the Empire, the Duchy is still a loyal, Imperial vassal.



04.05.2407

The Huph Wormhole is charted and Saidainope system was visited by Rosalein Greiss.

The findings were classified and the Imperial Admiralty notified, while Botanik II has been ordered to resume its old assignment in orbit of Odin.



16.10.2407

L-Gate in Urakhannon's Maw Starzone has been brought online and subsequent communications censored by Imperial Intelligence Bureau.



25.10.2407

The news about existence of Dessanu Consonance quickly circulate once the Science Directorate is given permission to send Maximilian Josef Schrer to the L-Cluster and map its Starzones.

Imperial Admiralty ordered the Urakhannon's Maw Starzone Outpost to be upgraded. The visiting Fleets were posted to the Starzone immediately and will remain there until further notice; this excludes the 7th Fleet, as Admiral Elfriede Paumann was tasked with visiting the far reaches of Milky Way Galaxy and eradicate remnant Drones and Amoebas.

1st, 2nd and 9th Fleets were scheduled for reinforcement of their numbers, including higher amount of Cruisers within their rosters. This will be accomplished by Busim and Sol Shipyards.

No comment was given by Imperial Household Agency about Kaiserin Katarin's silence on the matter.



09.01.2408

There have been changes and re-assignments within Imperial Intelligence Agency.

Engineering Research Department in the meanwhile announced that plans for new, heavily armored type of outpost will be designed soon.



08.05.2408

7th Fleet engages Amoebas in Boibos Starzone; it would be the first and largest battle of their campaign.

The surveying of Starzones that were going to be liberated by 7th Fleet fell onto Maximillian Josef Schrer, after he is done charting the Hyperlane network within L-Cluster.



02.09.2408

Kohlrausch Colony begins its operations.



07.01.2409

The campaign of 7th Fleet progresses well and is a valuable field experience for many officers. Including Admiral Elfriede Paumann, who became noted as a very agressive and maneuver-minded commander.

However, with her death less than three months later at age 97, the command of 7th Fleet passes to newly promoted Admiral Moritz Wiesenhutter.



03.02.2410

Elisabeth von Stockhausen finishes her work on Zroni Prime and its crystals.

One of them was taken aboard and delivered to Imperial Capital, where Psychics Research Sub-Department will decide what to do with it.



29.01.2411

With Starhold Project completed, Engineering Research Department, in cooperation with Imperial Admiralty, has decided to begin design plans for a new class of Imperial warship.

A massive and heavily armed and armored vessel like this befits the role of flagship for Imperial Admirals, just like Cruisers were once assigned this role.

Meanwhile, several of Starports within the Odin Sector, as well as Aludra and Urakhannon's Maw Starports, were scheduled for upgrades.



06.08.2411

Pursuit of Profit has become a tradition newly promoted by the Imperial Government.







05.05.2413

Following improvements to Hyperdrives and Thrusters, the Imperial Admiralty's Design Bureau decides to update its designs.

K105-class is simply application of these newest technologies to K99-class Corvette. The latter design will be retained, however; for the use of Patrol Squadrons and the Reserve.

Lichtenlade-class Destroyer shall replace all the Knappsteins currently in service, as it boasts improvements in many areas, including Point Defense and even Shielding system.

Two new Cruiser classes emerge; the Grünewald is direct and much needed upgrade of the Schwaben, used by most of Imperial Fleets. The other, Morgensperling-II, is simply an update of the earlier design, and were assigned for use of 3rd and 4th Fleets as well. One of these two cruiser designs is destined to be phased out, depending whether multiple Laser Arrays or a single Lightning Emitter prove to be more efficient of a weapon.

And there is also upgrade of Iserlohn; as the stations they orbit usually host Hangar Bays anyway, the Design Bureau thought it will be more useful to plant Lightning cannons on the defense platforms.

To accomplish this massive refit programme, Urakhannon's Maw Starhold will include two Shipyards into its construction. 1st, 2nd and 9th Fleets, stationed at Sol and Busim, were given green light to begin refits.



02.04.2415

A new area of research became available to the Galactic Empire; that of antimatter generation.

Physics Research Department believes this will open numerous other fields of study, potentially including some powerful, new types of weaponry.



05.12.2415

Whilst continuing the campaign of eradication, 7th Fleet has stumbled upon a flock of Amoebas akin to those that once dwelled within Amor Alveo Starzone.

They must have been wandering flock who left that Starzone before it was liberated by Imperial Fleets; Admiral Moritz Wiesenhutter reports that battle was won, with loss of two K99 Corvettes.



24.03.2417

Head of Xeno-Archeology Department, Elisabeth von Stockhausen, has died at age 98. A state funeral was ordered by Kaiserin Katarin to commemorate her illustrious career and successes in Zroni excavations.

Maximillian Josef Schrer was designated as the next head of XAD and given orders to continue the excavations of the enigmatic 'Oracle' system in the depths of Kohlrausch's seas.




07.11.2417

Kaiserin Katarin Goldenbaum announces, after lenghty deliberations, that the Humanity must be made stronger to assume hegemony over the galaxy.

The new edict, 'Inferior Gene Seed Purification Law', will prepare the Human species for the future by excluding weak and defective lineages from the population.

The brightest and wisest biologists and geneticists of the Empire are already preparing genetic designs for Human species.




02.01.2418

Science Directorate and Design Bureau have together announced the completion of their respective work. This is realized in two different Battleship designs.

The Offenburg is a purely offensive Battleship; boasting 6 UV Laser Arrays with dual Cloud Lightning emitters.

The Langenberg is on other hand more of a command and carrier Battlership; its UV Laser Arrays are smaller and less numerous, but the structure contains triple Hangar decks coupled with several PD batteries.

One Offenburg each will be assigned to those fleets that have numerous Cruisers and thus spacefighter wings (1st, 2nd, 4th, 9th) while a single Langenberg will supplement the Fleets which have 10 or less Cruisers in their rosters and thus require more spacefighter wings (3rd, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th). Shipyards at Sol, Sirius, Busim and Urakhannon's Maw Starzones were ordered to begin construction of these mighty vessels at once.



06.06.2418

The Human Genetical Superiority Commission has finished its task of designing the new, Superior, Human species; with enhanced brain tissue in learning and speech regions, as well as behavioral aversion to wastefulness, these will be the new masters of Milky Way Galaxy.

Kaiserin Katarin has demanded that all Humans within Odin Administrative Sector undergo the genetic transformation; that's slightly over a third of Humanity across five planets and will require almost 2 and half years until its completed.

In holovision speech to the Imperial citizenry, Kaiserin boasted the benefits of Superior transformation and urged calm and patience, as not everyone can undergo the procedure just yet, as Society Research Department must balance the tasks at hand.



10.12.2419

Christine Saucken of Xeno-Archeology Department finishes her work on the 'Fumongous' of Moor-Hsettu.

Apparently, these are psionically-capable semi-sapient fungi, aware of things happening on other planets.



01.01.2420

A new era of Human history is about to begin; one that involves a new, improved species, the Superior Human.

But the warrior heart of Humanity is not yet forgotten, and the unleashing of new starship designs upon the Galaxy means only one thing: a new war is approaching.

One that shall establish Humanity as the new hegemons of the entirety of the Milky Way Galaxy.

TO BE CONTINUED...

[Loud Whispers]

Tubular dude

[Haspen]

Chapter 12: L-Cluster Campaign, pt.1: The Disaster of Siet Starzone

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

10.02.2420

The mycellium network is watered, by Kaiserin Katarin, not wanting for the Imperial security to be potentially put in danger, forbids its activation.

In the same time, 7th Fleet is returning to Sol Starzone for repairs and upgrades.



16.03.2420

A malevolent artificial intelligence was found by the team of Maximillian Josef Schrer.

Kaiserin Katarin demanded its immediate deactivation and analysis. Computers must not be allowed to control Humans, the masters of their own future.



03.05.2420

Imperival Government adopts the Discovery traditions as the next path of Humanity.

Kaiserin Katarin was noted saying 'There are enemies lurking somewhere, and our first task is to find and analyze them before we can intelligently fight them.'



01.10.2420

ViMaas Starzone is attacked by pirates - they used the 4th Patrol Squadron's absence for upgrades to begin their overt operations.

Trade and stability is disrupted in the Starzone until arrival of 4thPS destroys the pirate fleet.



09.01.2422

Few days after refits of 7th Fleet are completed, Imperial Admiralty announces a dispatch of all Imperial Fleets to the Urakhannon's Maw Starzone.

This massive operation of course destabilizes Imperial economy a little bite, but for this the Ministry of Planetary Development was ordered to reclassify some Agri-Worlds as Rural ones, facilitating a diversification of planetside resource gathering, partly towards energy production.

Meanwhile, Imperial Intelligence Agency has dispatched a Science Vessel under command of Johann Ferdewelt into L-Cluster on a confidential mission.



16.10.2422

Silence befell the Imperial Admiralty's Operational Council chamber when the reports from Johann Ferdewelt were delivered to the room, indicating perhaps as many as 17 Dessanu Fleets in the whole L-Cluster, putting them at equal footing to Imperial Space Force.

However, the dispatch's cancellation was not an option as Kaiserin Katarin personally demanded that it goes through. Few days later, 'Operation Ragnarok' has begun - the campaign to claim L-Cluster in its entirety for the Galactic Empire.

The command roster is as follows:

1st Fleet: Admiral Martin von Siegmeister (20 cruisers, 15 destroyers, 40 corvettes, flagship Yggradsil, Offenburg-class)
2nd Fleet: Admiral Arle Falstrong (20 cruisers, 15 destroyers, 40 corvettes, flagship Jotunheim, Offenburg-class)
3rd Fleet: Admiral Jürgen Kamhuber (10 cruisers, 15 destroyers, 40 corvettes, flagship Asgrimm, Langenberg-class)
4th Fleet: Admiral Marika Gräbner (20 cruisers, 10 destroyers, 30 corvettes, flagship Jörmungandr, Offenburg-class)
5th Fleet: Admiral Günther von Keyserling (3 cruisers, 6 destroyers, 30 corvettes, flagship Dagda, Langenberg-class)
6th Fleet: Admiral Gerhard Saucken (4 cruisers, 9 destroyers, 31 corvettes, flagship Berlin, Langenberg-class)
7th Fleet: Admiral Moritz Wiesenhutter (5 cruisers, 10 destroyers, 10 corvettes, flagship Wilhelmina, Langenberg-class)
8th Fleet: Admiral Christoph Bertram (5 cruisers, 10 destroyers, 10 corvettes, flagship Diarium, Langenberg-class)
9th Fleet: Admiral Dorothea Fusseneger (15 cruisers, 20 destroyers, 20 corvettes, flagship Danzig, Offenburg-class)

The order of operations is established; after securing Terminal Egress Starzone, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 9th Fleets will be main combatant fleets, with 5th to 8th following them behind for support.

With great pomp and celebration the commanders of this grand fleet are sent off with a great ball and personal blessings of Kaiserin Katarin.





19.10.2424

The Imperial Space Force arrives in Terminal Egress Starzone.

On the order of Admiral Martin von Siegmeister, Imperial warships open fire on the nearby Dessanu Consonance Defense Fleet, with Battleship Jotunheim firing the first shot.

Despite thickness of Dessanu shields and armor, the encounter ends in total annihilation of the Defense Fleet, making the Admirals very optimistic.





10.11.2424

It seems that Dessanu were feeding Johann Ferdewelt false data regarding the strength of their vessels, as the sensor readings have noticed extreme spikes in their combat values.

As the combined fleets engage the Terminal Egress Starbase and the two Defense Fleets stationed nearby, Admiral Martin von Siegmeister ordered a war council after the engagement to revise the campaign's strategy.





02.12.2424

Despite the surprises, the Battle Of Terminal Egress Starzone is slowly coming to completion when Dessanu Citadel is destroyed by combined fleets.

Meanwhile, Imperial spacefighters heavily damage the other Defense Fleet before it engages the Imperial Space Force.



10.02.2425

Following the victory at Terminal Egress Starzone, the Imperial Science Directorate and Imperial Intelligence Agency collaborate on analysis of the Dessanu debris.

It is quickly determined that Dessanu are not organic beings, but some sort of nanite-based species.



21.02.2425

Von Siegmeister's War Council adjourns and new strategy for the conquest of L-Cluster was developed. Three Battlegroups were created.

Battlegroup A includes 1st and 2nd Fleet, the largest and more powerful ones.
Battlegroup B includes 3rd Fleet, followed by 7th and 9th Fleets.
Battlegroup C includes 4th Fleet, followed by 5th, 6th and 8th Fleets.





03.04.2425

To the great surprise of Imperial Fleets, Dessanu Patrol Fleets seem to be untrackable by current sensor systems onboard Imperial warships.

The Battle of Piddahfir Hyperlane begins at melee range because of this, and is close enough to Battlegroup B that it rushes to support Battlegroup C in the fighting.

This engagement is won but there are large casualties amongst Battlegroup C, who loses almost 20 K112 Corvettes and several Cruisers and Destroyers.





26.06.2425

Trying to ascertain the enemy strength in Ferragon Starzone, Battlegroup A warps out on the very top of a Dessanu Patrol Fleets, with another close by. Almost surely, these two fleets were most going towards Terminal Egress Starzone.

However, the two Admirals note that this incapacitates most of the Dessanu's combat strength as they have neither time to launch their nanite fighter craft nor begin bombardment with their artillery beams and plasma missiles, putting the more numerous Imperial Fleets at advantage.

The casualties from Battle of Ferragon Starzone exceed those of Battle of Piddahfir Hyperlane, and Battlegroup A is recalled to Terminal Egress Starzone.



11.08.2425

Planetary Assault Fleet is put under command of General Amarie Immermann, and several planets in Sol Starzone are ordered to muster planetary assault forces.

Imperial Admiralty believes that taking the two Gaia planets in Terminal Egress Starzone will allow the Empire to claim and fortify it.



15.10.2425

Xeno-Archeology Department delivers news on the Ockrom ruins; apparently it was a bio-weapon research outpost.

Several pages of the report are classified 'top secret' while Christine Saucken is sent to investigate the ruins on surface of Savassic Va, orbiting a planet encased in high-energy shield.




11.11.2425

Upon entering the Siet Starzone, Battlegroup B sensors' are satured with Dessanu signatures; not only two Defense Fleets are in orbit of the Starbase, two roaming Patrol Fleets chance upon the Battlegroup and draw it into combat.

Battlegroup C was ordered to abandon its posting in Terminal Egress Starzone and rush to help Battlegroup C.






26.12.2425

Situation of Battlegroup B becomes extremely dire after nearly a month of fighting in Siet Starzone.

By the time Battlegroup C is able to lend support, the Battlegroup B is all but destroyed; Admirals Jürgen Kamhuber and Moritz Wiesenhutter die when their respective flagships, Asgrimm and Wilhelmina, are sunk with all hands by Dessanu forces, marking the first time when Imperial Admiral dies at hands of an enemy.

3rd and 7th Fleets are totally annihilated, while remaining Cruisers of the 9th Fleet, under Admiral Dorothea Fusseneger, manage to initiate emergency jump and all sensor tracking of this Fleet is lost.




03.01.2426

Battlegroup C attempts to avenge the Battlegroup B's destruction but the Dessanu manage to place another Patrol Fleet into Siet Starzone.

Battlegroup A is ordered by Imperial Admiralty towards Siet Starzone to render assistance, lest another Imperial Fleets are lost forever.



08.02.2426

Despite efforts of Imperial Intelligence Agency to quarantine the information flow and the press coverage, the news of Disaster of Siet Starzone find their way into hearts of populace.

Rioting and hysteria befalls Imperial citizens when the demise of all Imperial Fleets but the 1st, 2nd and 9th reach their ears. Kaiserin Katarin collapses during Imperial Admiralty meeting and is hospitalized.

None of Battlegroup C ships managed to initiate emergency warp jumps; Admirals Gerhard Saucken, Marika Gräbner, Günther von Keyserling and Christoph Bertram all perish in the line of duty.

1st and 2nd Fleets are forbidden from entering Siet Starzone and are instead moved to the close vicinity of Terminal Egress L-Gate. If any of Dessanu Fleets leave the cluster, there is no telling what sort of destruction could befall the Empire.






02.10.2426

Following breakthroughs in Dessanu debris analysis, especially their shields, armor and reactor cores, Imperial Admiralty's Design Bureau was ordered to quickly incorporate the newest technologies into Imperial ships.

Falke-class Corvettes and Streit-class Destroyers are simple upgrades over the older designs, finally including Crystalline structural armoring.

Kücrain-class Cruiser is where the Laser/Lightning split comes to an end; successor to Morgensperling-II, it includes all the new technologies into one design.

Most importantly, the Battleship hybridization occurs with creation of Herdubreid-class; it possesses 2 Cloud Lightning arrays, while its core boasts two Hangers and numerous PD and X-ray Laser batteries.



03.10.2426

The very next day, the Imperial Admiralty has announced creation of the 10th Fleet, its first ships are those meant to reinforce the doomed 5th and 6th Fleets earlier. Comprising of 5 Battleships, 20 Cruisers, 10 Destroyers and 20 Corvettes, it will both test the new designs and fill the disgusting void left in Imperial Fleet Roster after the Disaster of Siet.

The command of the 10th Fleet was awarded to Admiral Kurt Klapf, who led 7th Patrol Squadron with dutifulness for past 20 years. Once his new fleet is assembled, he is to join 1st and 2nd Fleets in Terminal Egress Starzone.

Meanwhile, Imperial Admiralty decides that 1st and 2nd Fleets will mvoe back to Urakhannon's Maw Starzone in sequence, for repairs and refits, and to acquire 3 Herdubreid Battleships each; science vessel Katalogisierer II under command of Johann Ferdewelt is sent back to Terminal Egress Starzone to help spy on incoming Dessanu fleets.



04.01.2427

The collaboration between Imperial Science Directorate and Imperial Intelligence Agency has convinced the Imperial Government about viability of specialized Science Division.

This somewhat empowers scientists of the Galactic Empire, and even gives them some theoretical freedoms.



06.09.2427

The archeological work of Maximillian Josef Schrer has yielded results that interested Kaiserin Katarin herself.

He was ordered to pursue this 'Memorex', so that ISD can analyze this marvelous device.



18.09.2427

In times of such a military crisis, baubles and commodities need to be rationed while alloy production must increase.

It was at this date that Kaiserin Katarin has ordered militarization of Imperial economy. Earlier, 50 megatons of Alloys quota for procurement from independent merchants every month to supplement the alloy production was approved as well.



21.03.2428

Imperial Admiralty and Kaiserin Katarin are notified that a Dessanu Patrol Fleet has entered Terminal Egress Starzone.

2nd Fleet, currently adjacent to the outgoing L-Gate, was ordered to not pursue unless provoked, and 1st Fleet, undergoing refits at Urakhannon's Maw Shipyard, was put on alert to join with 1st Fleet at moment's notice.

After two months of tense monitoring, the alert is downgraded as the Patrol Fleet leaves for Paddhfir Starzone.



27.12.2428

Another Patrol Fleet is found on an intercept course for the 2nd Fleet. An alarm is sounded and Imperial Admiralty notified.

1st Fleet arrives in just few days' time to assist; its Corvettes and Destroyers almost fully refit.





10.01.2428

The Third Battle of Terminal Egress begins at this date when the Dessanu Patrol Fleet engages the 1st and 2nd Imperial Fleets.

Fighting is fierce, but the enemy squadron is destroyed; 18 Corvettes, 5 Destroyers and 2 Cruisers are lost in this engagement.

Afterwards, 1st Fleet is recalled to Urakhannon's Maw for further repairs and to finish its refits.



01.01.2430

The L-Cluster, the current battlefield of the Empire and the Consonance, the grave of hundred of thousands of crewmembers, the last battle of several Imperial Admirals.

What secrets does it hold, what powerful technologies and infinite resources are stored there to empower the Dessanu so much?

Goldenbaum Dynasty suffered its first and greatest defeat at Siet Starzone, but even now the Imperial Shipyards are building new warships to counter the Dessanu Defense Fleets, and experienced commanders and promising recruits flock to avenge those fallen at Siet.

But how long will the L-Cluster Campaign last? And how many of those who depart for it now, shall return home to tell the story?...

TO BE CONTINUED...

[Loud Whispers]

Quick, call the politicians! If we're fast enough, we can rally the public into an offensive campaign against the Dessanu, using our slain servicemen as our just cause for revenge!

[Haspen]

Chapter 13: L-Cluster Campaign, pt.2: Terminal Egress Starzone Captured

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

20.02.2430

The 10th Fleet launches from the Sol Shipyards; it will be an over one year long journey until they reach the L-Cluster.

Meanwhile, the 1st Fleet is finishing its repairs and refits at Urakhannon's Maw Starbase.



07.04.2430

The planetary invasion of the Dessanu planet, Ten-Aard-Shel, begins, under command of General Amarie Immermann.



03.07.2430

The invasion is a success, but it comes at a surprising price; General Amarie Immermann had to hastily evacuate the planetary forces once everything on the planet's surface ceased functioning.

This combined with combat losses prevents the capture of the other planet in Terminal Egress Starzone, the Dora-Got-Fiir.

The Planetary Assault Force was recalled to Urakhannon's Maw Starzone to receive reinforcements.



24.07.2430

1st Fleet under command of Admiral Martin von Siegmeister finishes its refits just at the very moment a combined alarm notification is sent by 2nd Fleet and crew of Katalogisierer II.

Its another Dessanu Patrol Fleet, also on intercept course towards the PAF transports. The two fleets will repel it in orbit of the gas giant, Gol-Umn-Toor.



06.08.2430

The birth of 11th Imperial Fleet is announced from the few reinforcement remnants of 10th Fleet that didn't get into the roster.

It will be a support fleet; its flagship, the Königs Tiger, was given to an aggressive Admiral, Evangeline Eckhart, former commander of 6th Patrol Squadron.





13.09.2430

Dessanu Patrol Fleet decided against engaging the Imperial Fleets, but the Admirals in charge of them decided that the Dessanu must be battled and decimated.

The phrase 'Remember Siet!' that was uttered by Martin von Siegmeister over the Combat Announcement Channels quickly became the war cry of the entire Imperial Space Force for years to come.



18.10.2430

The battle was won, but the losses were severe. With much surprise the Admiralty noted how often Imperial Destroyers are falling victim to Dessanu weaponry.

After the battle, the 2nd Fleet was ordered back to Urakhannon's Maw Starzone for repairs, refits, and reinforcements.



08.04.2431

The Memorex has been uncovered by the Xeno-Archeology Department under guidance of Maximillian Josef Schrer.

Its powers too complex for be considered safe, the giant metal orb was dissassembled and the recovered alloys will refurbish the Imperial Fleets.

Maximilian Josef Schrer then was delegated to research the peculiar asteroid, the ZL-126, in Uwheron Starzone.



18.04.2432

A year later, Christine Saucken also finishes her excavations on Savassic Va, and the relic world around which the moon was orbiting is now accessible to Imperial scientists.

Frau Saucken's team was immediatelly ordered to excavate the ruins.



14.08.2432

The 11th Fleet's ship roster has been approved by Imperial Admiralty, which is a novelty at the time.

Eschewing the old tactic of Corvette and Destroyer swarm, the 11th will have 10 Battleships at its core, with 10 Cruisers, 10 Destoyers and 15 Corvettes for support.

Meanwhile, 10th Fleet arrives in Terminal Egress Starzone, and given the lull in Dessanu activity, the 2nd was recalled back to Urakhannon's Maw Starzone for repairs and reinforcement as well.



24.12.2432

During the ending of Jule celebrations on Odin, Imperial Admiralty's War Council reconvenes when the news arrive from Terminal Egress Starzone that the Dora-Got-Fiir planet has been abandoned by Dessanu.

Their transport ships still in orbit were targeted by and quickly destroyed by the 10th Fleet.

With Dessanu out of the way, this paves the way for thorough survey by Science Directorate's ships; Katalogisierer II under command of Johann Ferdewelt was assigned this task.



15.04.2433

Imperial Government, under orders of Kaiserin Katarin, announces a program of subsidies for the alloy producing complexes.

This comes after the recent buy-out of alloys caused a price spike and thus made it rather taxing for Imperial economy to procure alloys that way.



19.06.2433

After years of traversing the darkness of space without navigational systems and Hyperlane network, the remnants of the 9th Fleet - five Grünewald cruisers - finally reappears within Busim Starzone.

Admiral Dorothea Fusseneger was recalled to Odin for debriefing about the Siet Disaster while the 9th Fleet's remnants were given few months of R&R.

Busim Starzone Shipyards were ordered to begin reinforcements of the 9th Fleet so that it can rejoin the L-Cluster Campaign as soon as it is possible.



25.04.2435

The Terminal Egress Outpost comes online, giving the Galactic Empire a footing in the L-Cluster.

The outpost is set for expansion so that it can contain defense stations, robust sensor installations as well as crew quarters and other utilities that will be able to support the traffic, both civilian and military.



07.08.2435

Kaiserin Katarin issues the Higher Education Edict, which provides for and demands higher education certificates from all those who wish to serve the Empire.



25.12.2435

Another Dessanu Patrol Fleet is sighted on the very eve of Jule Celebrations of the year 2435.

In accordance with established protocol, the 10th Fleet calls in the 1st and 2nd Fleets, but Admiral Kurt Klapf knows that he must keep Terminal Egress Starzone secure until their arrive onto the field of battle.




11.01.2436

The Defense of Terminal Egress Starzone begins on 11th January 2436.

1st and 2nd Fleets are already in the system, but its still two weeks before they can join the battle.




09.02.2436

Despite the damage that the 10th Fleet receives, the battle soon skews in favor of Galactic Empire when the other two fleets join the battle; first their spacefighter squadrons, then the warships themselves.

After the victorious battle, the damage assessment shows that 10th Fleet lost over 20 warships, necessiting repairs and reinforcement at Urakhannon's Maw Shipyards.

1st and 2nd Fleets remain in Terminal Egress Starzone to guard it from further Dessanu attacks.



28.11.2436

Once again, the Xeno-Archeology Department becomes the centre of attention when they finish their work at ZL-126, including a vast hoard of artifacts of a long forgotten empire.

Maximillian Josef Schrer is elevated to the rank of Count for his dilligence and master of xeno-archeology.

He and crew of Botanik III soon depart on yet another dig, this time on desloate surface of Menchib II.



27.09.2437

Following the return of 9th Fleet to full capacity and strength, Imperial Admiralty announces that there will be resumption of L-Cluster Campaign in full.

It calls for 1st, 2nd, 9th and 10th Fleets to visit neighbouring Starzones - Ferragon, Siet, Paddahfir - and destroy the local Defense Fleets and Fortresses, while 11th will be charged with defense of Terminal Egress Starzone.



09.12.2439

The combined Imperial Fleets enter the Ferragon Starzone; the sensor sweep reveals that the local Dessanu defenses are comprised of one Fortress and a Defense Fleet.




24.12.2439

Following a morbid trend noted by junior officers, the Second Battle of Ferragon begins on the eve of Jule celebrations.

The four Imperial Fleets engage the Dessanu Defense Fleet head-on, but the nanite fightercraft launched from the Starzone's Fortress quickly become a valid threat.



01.01.2440

The Second of Battle of Ferragon Starzone rages on as the Humanity elsewhere celebrates the coming of year 2440.

With the captured of Terminal Egress Starzone, the citizens of the Galactic Empire are hopeful that the tragic and brutal campaign will come to an end in few years.

But is the Imperial Space Force strong enough to tackle the Dessanu, or are the nanite beings preparing a counterattack that will dash those hopes for victory?

Only Odin himself knew the outcome.

TO BE CONTINUED...

[EuchreJack]

Now this is interesting, the L-Cluster campaign.  As I read this, I'm tempted to play Stellaris again...but honestly I think its more fun to read than to play.

[Haspen]

Chapter 14: L-Cluster Campaign, pt.3: From Ferragon to Hadriccus

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

03.01.2440

The Second Battle of Farragon Starzone enters its main phase, and as planned by the Admiralty, the singular Defense Fleet is unable to withstand the assault of four Imperial Fleets at once.




20.01.2440

Then, the assault on local Dessanu Fortress begins, but Imperial warships have little time to commence bombardment as Imperial Spacefighters already have blasted numerous holes in the Fortress' hull.

The battle is won after few days, and damage reports are vastly different from those seen before; with only 14 ships lost, majority of them in 9th Fleet.

Planetary Assault Force is ordered to land on the local Dessanu fake-planet, Ferragon V, to break the aliens' hold on the Ferragon Starzone once and for all.




13.04.2440

The Battle of Hemtares Starzone is a convoluted one, as there are two Dessanu Fleets in the Starzone.

The combined Imperial Fleets attempt to concentrate on the nearest one.





28.04.2440

Unfortunately, the plan fails; shortly before the Dessanu Defense Fleet near Farragon Hyperlane is destroyed, the other engages and sows chaos amongst the Imperial forces.

The crossfire from the two Dessanu Motherships is particularily devastating for the destroyers and cruisers of the 1st Imperial Fleet.



14.05.2440

In the midst of the fleet battle, another battle on smaller scale, but equally important, occurs.

Much like the previous ground battle against the Dessanu, General Amarie Immermann's forces have to retreat once the central command on the planet is breached and all nanite forms collapse.




22.05.2440

By late May, the Battle of Hemtares Starzone is over, and the local Dessanu fake-planets, Hemtares III and Hemtares V, are slated for conquest.

Highly advanced weapon and armor debris remains from the battle, and Johann Ferdewelt is ordered to analyze it; Engineering and Physics Science Departments will be given enormous amount of valueable data this way.

However, the losses of the Imperial Fleets cannot be ignored at this point, and so they were recalled to Urakhannon's Maw Shipyards for repair and to give the crew a well-earned rest.



10.11.2440

While the Imperial Fleets are recuperating from their losses, the conquest of Hemtares III begins.

Its a drawn-out, tough battle for Planetary Assault Force, but Amarie Immermann's leadership helps win the battle.



13.02.2441

The victory at Hemtares III is somewhat soured by massive losses in personnel inflicted upon PAF. It has been ordered to take few weeks of break time before assaulting Hemtares V.

On the same day, Imperial Admiralty has issued orders to the combined Imperial Fleet - enter Piddahfir Starzone, engage and destroy Dessanu forces in there.

Piddahfir was not visited during the fighting of previous expeditionary force, and thus the tacticians in the Fleets have to work with outdated scans by Johann Ferdewelt.




13.07.2441

Hemtares V battle begins just two weeks before combined Fleets' arrival in Piddahfir Starzone.





03.08.2441

The local Dessanu Defense Fleet is very close to the Fortress, and thus the ensuing melee has the 4 Imperial Fleets pitted against both simultaneously.

But even this convergence of enemy forces is not enough; the Dessanu Interdictors are easily destroyed by combined beam volleys and spacefighter bombardments.

Then, that massive firepower is unleashed against the Mothership, tearing through its defense systems and blowing it up after several days of sustained assault.




23.08.2441

The destruction of Dessanu Fortress comes quickly once the spacefighter wings, now no longer engaged to Dessanu nanitefighters, can deliver their payloads against it.

The Battle of Piddahfir Starzone ends in overwhelming success with very little losses, boosting the confidence of Imperial Space Force and the Imperial citizenry as well.

Admiral Kurt Klapf of the 10th Fleet was heard to say upon the battle's conclusion, "There's no need to flee from or fear the Dessanu; if they persist, one only need to deliver more firepower at them."

Intoxicated from this victory, the Combined Fleets were ordered to hastily score another one in Poru Starzone.



15.10.2441

By pure coincidence, the Battle of Poru Starzone begins on the very day where Hemtares V is deactivated by Planetary Assault Force.




24.10.2441

The aformentioned Battle of Poru Starzone is nearly identical to Battle of Piddahfir Starzone.

One Dessanu Fleet parked near the local Fortress forces the combined Fleets to assault both simultaneously.

Dessanu Interdictors are blown up one by one, before the Mothership is engaged.



03.11.2441

To celebrate the Unyielding spirit of Imperial Space Force against the Dessanu nanites, Kaiserin Katarin has decided to sponsor sweeping reforms in Ministry of Defence.

"Never again shall Humanity fear might of xenos, be they intelligent or primal."





07.11.2441

Those words would echo in minds of brave Imperial shipmen, who would go on to secure a victory for the Empire in the Battle of Poru Starzone.

This time, however, the losses amongst the Imperial Fleets couldn't be brushed aside.

The numbers of warships in the 9th Fleet were thinned out greatly, and, much to Admiral Dorothea Fusseneger's displeasure, it was recalled to Urakhannon's Maw Starzone for repairs and reinforcement.



01.02.2442

The temporary break in the L-Cluster Campaign has allowed the Imperial Government to dedicate itself to different pursuits.

As the economy of the Empire is shifted toward warfare, the need for consumer goods and alloys is always a problem; a new colony, Schneider, will be built on surface of Saldar IIIb.

It will be an industrial world, and what little useful space on the small planet there is will be turned into alloy foundries and civilian factories.




01.06.2442

Few months later, thanks to numerous breakthroughs in physics and engineering, the Design Bureau rolls out two new designs; K130 Corvette and the Rücke Destroyer.

The K130 incorporates newly designed Quantum warhead missiles as well as X-Ray Laser Arrays; meanwhile, the Rücke gets the X-Rays and the new, improved and Advanced Shields generators.

Imperial Admiralty has ordered the 9th (which is currently rebuilding) and 11th Fleets (which is still reinforcing) to undergo upgrades and test these two designs during the remainder of L-Cluster Campaign.



10.02.2443

Christine Saucken of Xeno-Archeology Department announces the discovery of a 'miniature galaxy' within the ruins of Savassic V once shielded by the Armstrice Initiative.

It was delivered to the Physics Research Department for thorough study of esoteric and multi-dimensional theories.



03.06.2443

Kaiserin Katarin announces that in the coming years, the policy of Selected Lineages will be mandatory for all citizens of the Galactic Empire.

This controversial law will instill a new feeling of elitism within priviledged and talented families.



14.07.2443

During the operation to deactivate the Dessanu on surface of Piddhafir I, a tragedy occurs; General Amarie Immermann dies after intense combat along with most of 31st Ground Attack Force.

Despite loss of centralized command, the Planetary Assault Force manages to conquer the planet. One of Immermann's commanders, Karl Eduard Oppenheimer, is promoted to rank of General and is given command of the PAF.



16.03.2444

Shortly before resumption of the L-Cluster Campaign, the commander of 9th Fleet and survivor of Siet Starzone Disaster, Admiral Dorothea Fusseneger, dies of old age.

After Frau Fusseneger's full state funeral, the 9th Fleet was assigned to Willibald Radbruch, who previously led 1st Patrol Squadron.



15.07.2444

Meanwhile, the Robotics Sub-Department has finished its Robot2 project, which makes the current and future worker units much more durable and easier to assembly through backwards-compatibility with recycled parts.

Currently existing models are to be upgraded while Assemblies on outlying colonies were ordered to modify the produced units on-the-fly.



30.02.2445

On this day, the L-Cluster Campaign resumes its course.

Five Imperial Fleets prepare to enter the Siet Starzone, the site of infamous battle that cost hundred of thousands of Imperial lives.

But this time, the greatly improved ship designs and the powerful battleships in employ of 1st, 2nd, 9th, 10th and 11th Fleets will ensure that those who died at First Battle of Siet will be honored.



25.03.2445

Upon entering the Siet Starzone, sensor sweeps have revealed that only two Motherships and Fortress keep watch over the Starzone.

Fleet Admiral Martin von Siegmeister ordered immediate engagement of these forces.




08.04.2445

The Second Battle of Siet Starzone begins, with the combined Fleets engaging one of the Motherships and the Fortress simultaneously.

Concentrated artillery fire, missile vollets and spacefighter runs completely obliterate the Mothership.



15.04.2445

Shortly after destruction of the first Mothership, Admiral Martin von Siegmeister collapses from sudden heart attack.

Doctors on board the Yggdrassil are unable to save his life just as the combined Fleets begin their assault on the Dessanu Fortress.

The command over combined Imperial Fleets thus passed to Admiral Arle Falstrong of the 2nd Fleet.




25.04.2445

The Second Battle of Siet Starzone ends in a total Imperial Victory, with only four ships lost.

Fleet Admiral Martin von Siegmeister's body was send on a shuttle back to Odin for grandiose state funeral, while command of 1st Fleet was given - temporarily - to Walter Hauptmann, who received field promotion to Admiral.

He was ordered to take the 1st Fleet to Urakhannon's Maw Starzone for repairs, reinforcement and refit of its Corvettes and Destroyers to the new designs.




22.02.2446

The Battle of Hadriccus Starzone begins when 2nd, 9th, 10th and 11th Fleets enter the Hadriccus Starzone.

This small Starzone is occupied by a Dessanu Fortress and two full Defense Fleets, one of them immediatelly engaging the combined Imperial Fleets.

Dessanu Interdictors are quickly overwhelmed and obliterated, before the other Defense Fleets manages to effectively engage the Imperial warships.





04.03.2446

A frantic melee ensues between the four Imperial Fleets, the Fortress and the two Defense Fleets on the flanks. However, one by one the Interdictors are destroyed and then, the Motherships succumb to Imperial onslaught as well.

With Dessanu warships out of the way, the attack on the Hadriccus Fortress begins in earnest, and its destruction announces victory of Imperial Space Force. Casualties are moderate amongst the Imperial Fleets, with most losses being amongst the corvettes and destroyers.

Just a week later comes the report from Karl Eduard Oppenheimer; Poru I has been successfully attacked and the local Dessanu were deactivated.



02.10.2446

Half a year later, the Siet Starzone is on verge of capture, with the Planetary Assault Force is on its way to land and deactive the nanites on the surface Siet II.



01.01.2447

L-Cluster campaign seems to be entering its final years. The greatest enemy of the Humanity, the Dessanu nanite lifeforms, are crumbling under the might of Imperial Fleets, who are preparing to attack the remaining two Starzones that are still under Dessanu control.

But what happens next - without a formidable enemy, is stagnation and decadence fated to reign supreme amongst the Imperial administrators and nobility?

Or does something unexpected and terrifying lies in store for the Galactic Empire?

TO BE CONTINUED...

[Haspen]

Chapter 15: L-Cluster Campaign Finale: The Battle of Ocheron Starzone

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

14.02.2247

The excavations on the surface of Pauunia II come to a sudden and unexpected end with the crew of Stern II nearly going mad.

Whatever it was found there, was quickly destroyed to prevent malicious forces from entering the Milky Way Galaxy.

Following this near-disaster, Stern II was decommissioned, the crew laid off and Scientist Christine Saucken removed from her position as Vice-Head of Xeno-Archeology Department.



07.06.2447

The combined Imperial Space Force under command of Admiral Arle Falstrong enters the Aethos Starzone, the final outlying Starzone belonging to Dessanu of L-Cluster.

With just the Fortress and one Defense Fleet, the outcome of battle is all but decided.




19.06.2447

The Battle of Aethos Starzone begins in the same day that Maximillian Josef Schrer finishes digging through 'City of Bones' on Bitrius IIIa.

Genetic material obtained from the excavations was sent to Human Advancement Research Sub-Department, but Kaiserin Katarin forbade using it as she said it would 'pollute' the pristine Human genetic material.

With this expedition completed, the Imperial Government announced temporary 'closure' of Xeno-Archeology Department, as there's no other sites within Imperial territory to excavate.




01.07.2447

The Dessanu quickly start losing their ships and the control of the Aethos Starzone.

Just two weeks later, both the Mothership and the Fortress are obliterated by Imperial artillery barrages.

With the loss of just 8 ships in total, its one of the most one-sided battles of L-Cluster Campaign. Following the victory, the combined fleets were recalled to Urakhannon's Maw Starzone for repairs and reinforcement.

Plans are already drawn to assault the Ocheron Starzone, including a way to gather intel on the Dessanu forces inside it.



28.08.2447

General Karl Eduard Oppenheimer begins the operation to deactive the Dessanu in Hadriccus Starzone.

The nanite beings have two planets there, Hadriccus III and Hadriccus II, both with full defense contingents.



08.05.2448

Just as the Imperial Fleets are undergoing necessary repairs, a new tent of Imperial thinking emerges, one about defense of the population.

Indeed, with the invincible Admiralty and the planetary surfaces defended by Strongholds many believe that Humanity indeed is unconquerable.



01.12.2448

It was thus a matter of consternation for the Imperial Admiralty when General Karl Eduard Oppenheimer has retreated from surface of Hadriccus II.

Amongst voices raising their opinion, some applauded the General for his ability to see the situation and preserve the Imperial soldiers' lives, some called for him to be punished, some believed he should've at least died in glorious charge against the Dessanu.

In the end, the General was not punished; Kaiserin Katarin ordered the Planetary Assault Force to be reinforced with 7 regiments before another assault is launched.



01.05.2449

The birth of 12th Imperial Fleet is announced with its command give to former commander of Patrol Reserve, Admiral Jürgen Ansbach.

It is to be stationed at Sol Starzone and, most importantly, the Imperial Admiralty decided it will not take part in the final battles of L-Cluster Campaign.



03.12.2450

As the population of the Galactic Empire grows, the strain on the bureaucracy slowly becomes unbearable.

Kaiserin Katarin orders the foundation of Selle colony on Darep III; a decidedly urban in vision, it will house numerous administrative and governmental districts.




14.01.2451

In middle of January 2451, the Planetary Assault Force receives its reinforcements and General Karl Eduard Oppenheimer orders another landing on Hadriccus II.

This time, the battle goes in favor of the Imperial soldiers, and on 13th April, the Dessanu on surface begin the deactivation procedures.

The battle is considered won and the PAF hastily retreats to their transports before the atmosphere on the planet becomes hostile to life.




06.06.2451

Imperial Admiralty Design Bureau adds two new designs into the roster, both using new armament technologies.

The Kvasir-class Cruiser will host the new generation of Imperial Spacefighters, along with improved armor, shielding and laser arrays.

But more importantly, the Barbarossa-class Battleship will be the testbed for the new weapon of tremendous power - the Arc Emitter, which while in function is similar to Cloud Lightning generator, is tenfold more powerful.

Admiral Jürgen Ansbach's 12th Fleet was ordered to refit their newly constructed cruisers and battleships to the new designs.



02.10.2451

Infiltration of Ocheron Starzone by the Planetary Assault Force to gain quick insight into Dessanu forces stationed there ended in massacre of PAF and a cause for alarm in the Imperial Admiralty.

After nearly thirty-hours long council with Kaiserin Katarin and many high ranking officials in Imperial Government, it was decided that another fleet - the 13th - will be commissioned before the assault on the heart of Dessanu Consonance commences.

Imperial Treasury and Ministry of Energy Finances were ordered to work in tandem to procure necessary alloys and funding for the 13th Fleet's commission, including a bulk sale of 100 Minor Artifacts from Imperial Museums. Furthermore, the experimental 12th Fleet was assigned to take part in the final battle of L-Cluster campaign as well.

The Admiralty first appointed Admiral Katherine Immermann, leader of 10th Patrol Squadron, as the commander of 13th Fleet, but her death of old age few weeks later necessited replacement; thus the command passed to Martin von Grimmelhausen of 8th Patrol Squadron.



06.08.2454

Even the Imperial Science Directorate is given special priviledges to help devise new weapons and battle computers.

Meanwhile, Imperial Admiralty has begun a campaign of stockpiling strategic resources for the use by the Imperial Fleets.



26.02.2456

During yet another preparatory War Council, the Imperial Admiralty receives Kaiserin's permission to raise another Imperial Fleet.

However, budgetary and logistical constraints put the 14th Fleet at only half the capacity compared to other Fleets of the Galactic Empire.

Admiral Wenzel Scheidt of 4th Patrol Squadron is hastily appointed as the commander of the 14th Fleet.



25.03.2459

Three years of preparations have come to pass, and the Imperial Admiralty after consultations with Kaiserin Katarin decided to wait no more.

14th Fleet was only partially assembled when the order was given for all others to leave their moorings at Urakhannon's Maw and Terminal Egress Starbases. The final fight against the Dessanu was at hand.

For this grand battle, the Galactic Empire has assembled the following fleets under command of veteran Admiral, Arle Falstrong:

1st Fleet, commanded by Admiral Udo Stekkel: 28 K130 Corvettes, 14 Rücke Destroyers, 20 Kücrain Cruisers, 3 Herdubreid Battlerships, flagship Yggrdassil.
2nd Fleet, commanded by Admiral Arle Farlstrong: 25 K99 Corvettes, 15 Streit Destroyers, 20 Kücrain Cruisers, 3 Herdubreid Battlerships, flagship Jotunheim.
9th Fleet, commanded by Admiral Willibald Radbruch: 25 K130 Corvettes, 15 Rücke Destroyers, 15 Kücrain Cruisers, 5 Herdubreid Battlerships, flagship Embla.
10th Fleet, commanded by Admiral Kurt Klapf: 25 Falke Corvettes, 10 Streit Destroyers, 18 Kücrain Cruisers, 5 Herdubreid Battlerships, flagship Vissarr.
11th Fleet, commanded by Admiral Evangelin Eckhart: 20 K130 Corvettes, 10 Rücke Destroyers, 10 Kücrain Cruisers, 10 Herdubreid Battlerships, flagship Königs Tiger.
12th Fleet, commanded by Admiral Jürgen Ansbach: 35 K130 Corvettes, 15 Rücke Destroyers, 15 Kücrain Cruisers, 3 Herdubreid Battlerships, flagship Kärnten.
13th Fleet, commanded by Admiral Martin von Grimmelshausen: 30 K130 Corvettes, 15 Rücke Destroyers, 15 Kvasir Cruisers, 5 Barbarossa Battlerships, flagship Skirnir.





06.10.2459

The Battle of Ocheron Starzone begins immediatelly after the combined Imperial Fleets exit the Hadriccus-Ocheron hyperlane.

Imperial Spacefighter wings encounter terrible resistance from nanite droneships, but with help of long range artillery provided by Barbarossa-class battlerships, the Dessanu Fleet in front of the Fortress is annihilated within days.






20.10.2459

By the time the Dessanu Fortress is engaged, the true nature of construction 'behind' it is revealed - a massive factory, armed to teeth with wave motion cannons and nanite droneships.

Two more Dessanu Defense Fleets are drawn into the fighting, and one of them suffers the brunt of Imperial bombardment.

With its Interdictors destroyed, Admiral Arle Falstrong orders that the other Defense Fleet is engaged, and its Interdictors are also destroyed.

After this, comes the sweep that destroys the now-lone Dessanu Motherships.





02.11.2459

At the start of November 2459, the Dessanu Fortress of Ocheron Starzone is rendered inoperable by the combined Imperial Fleets.

By this point however, the Nanite Factory's armaments began their bombardments and the remaining 3 Dessanu Defense Fleets have joined the fray, from the front, left and right flanks, simultaneously.

This splits the attention of Imperial gunners and the spacefighter wings, which cause the Imperial Fleets' order of battle to turn from organized artillery bombardment into a chaotic melee.





11.11.2459

Ten days later, the first reports come from certain spacefighter wings; they've managed to break through the point defenses of Nanite Factory and deliver their first bombing runs.

Meanwhile, the Dessanu Defense Fleets are melting in the middle of Imperial onslaught; only one of them remains at full strength.

Admiral Evangelin Eckhart notices this and pushes the 11th Fleet to deliver the first artillery strikes against it; other Admirals take note of this and engage with their Fleets as well.

Soon afterwards, Imperial sensors operators notify Admiral Arle Falstrong and rest of the command that the final Dessanu Defense Fleet is on the move.






21.11.2459

By the 21st November, that final Dessanu Defense Fleet launches its nanite droneships and joins the battle.

All other Defense Fleets have been pulverized or reduced to their core Motherships. Despite Imperial spacefighters' bombing runs, the Nanite Factory and its weaponry is still intact.

Imperial Fleets direct their artillery emitters and laser arrays against the fortified shipyard-like construction, while spacefighter wings are ordered to distract the Defense Fleet.




03.12.2459

The gambit proves to be effective when the first explosions begin to rock the internal structure of the Nanite Factory; soon enough, the entire complex explodes and with it, the Dessanu activity ceases instantenously across entirety of L-Cluster.

Archival recordings and ancient data cores are retrieved by the Imperial warships as their crews begin celebrating the victory at the Battle of Ocheron Starzone.

The final casualty reports are both a surprise and delight to the Imperial admirals who took part in the battle: in total, only 28 Imperial warships were lost, of which 21 was Corvettes and not a single Battleship.

The news of the victory at Ocheron soon make their way to Terminal Egress communications room, and from there, to every corner of the Galactic Empire, and the Imperial Court as well.

Kaiserin Katarin orders the military-economy laws to be immediately suspended as the overjoyed Imperial citizens take to the streets to dance, drink schnapps and sing songs in praise of the Imperial Fleets.



01.01.2460

So ends the titanic struggle that historians of nowaday and the future will call "The Imperial L-Cluster Campaign".

It claimed millions of crewmen lives and hundreds of Imperial warships, but the Dessanu Consonance was defeated in the end and the L-Cluster claimed by the Galactic Empire.

Humanity under the rule of Goldenbaum Dynasty could soon enter an unparalleled era of peace and prosperity.

But certain elements of the Imperial Government had other ideas in mind...

TO BE CONTINUED...

[Loud Whispers]

Fuck em up bomber Falstrong!

[Haspen]

Chapter 16: Dismantling Status Quo: The Campaign to Unite the Galaxy

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

30.02.2460

While the Imperial citizenry is celebrating the end of the L-Cluster Campaign, the Imperial Admiralty begins expanding the peacetime Starbase network in the meanwhile.

And, a new Shipyard facility will be built in Tadasca Starzone; on the opposite side of the Galaxy from Odin, it lies at one end of a 5-star corridor, and almost equidistant from Busim and Urakhannon's Maw Shipyards.

Meanwhile, construction ships and outposts in that area report unusually high Drone activity in outlying Starzones, preventing expansion. Admiral Kurt Klapf of 10th Fleet, which received negligible damage during Battle of Ocheron Starzone, is ordered to pacify the Starzones.



24.06.2460

Ancient Drone expansion squadrons enter claimed Imperial Starzone Maghama as an expression of the increased activity.

In next weeks, similar squadrons are spotted in Menkar and Alpha Hydri Starzones as well.



22.11.2461

A much credible threat occurs when one of these Drone squadrons assaults and damages the newly constructed Roballius Outpost.

Due to the suprising strength of these automated squadrons, Johann Ferdewelt's Katalogisierer II was sent to provide sensor coverage for the Hyperlane sector between Media and Botein Starzones, amounting to over 20 systems total.



01.12.2463

Following the largest skirmish against thirty Drones in Potap Starzone, the surrounding stellar neighbourhood is declared free of them.

10th Fleet then embarks on the task to clear the sector currently under surveillance by Johann Ferdewelt's crew.



02.06.2464

Despite her advanced age (92 years old), Kaiserin Katarine is in physically excellent condition according to Imperial Household doctors.

As she herself undergone genetic treatment to become a Superior Human, this only reinforced the nobility's belief in superiority of the species.




27.07.2466

10th Fleet's campaign reaches its zenith; the largest battle occurs in Obaeshoth Starzone against two Ancient Drone combat squadrons.

A week later, Admiral Kurt Klapf reports a decisive victory with no losses on Imperial side, which impresses the Imperial Admiralty with how fast he managed to resolve the skirmish.



07.10.2466

Following the completion of refits in 11th and assembly of 14th Fleet at Urakhannon's Maw Shipyards, Imperial Admiralty ordered Admirals Wenzel Scheidt and Rupert Molt to Huph Starzone.

Imperial Science Directorate has persuaded the military to strike against the Psionic Avatar dwelling within the Saidainope Starzone and have it subsequently surveyed.



12.06.2467

Following the declaration by Kaiserin Katarin, the Galactic Empire has been appointed as the guardian of Milky Way Galaxy.

Although purely patriotic and propagandist in nature, the declaration has stirred emotions within the Admiralty's highest ranking officers, who started to believe that a new military campaign would be announced soon.



01.12.2467

Sad news arrive on Odin regarding the death of Admiral Kurt Klapf, veteran of L-Cluster Campaign.

10th Fleet's campaign continues under command of Admiral Sieglinde Bayerlein.



02.02.2468

In a dissappointment to the Imperial forces involved, all it took was a concentrated Arc Emitter barrage to annihilate the Psionic Entity of Saidainope Starzone.

Following this quick victory, the 14th Fleet was ordered back to Urakhannon's Maw, while the 11th was given new base: Tadasca Shipyard Starbase.

The survey was assigned to the renowned Maximillian Josef Schrer, who, since temporary closure of Xeno-Archeology Department, had no work to do for past several years.



06.12.2469

The expertise of the crew of Botanik II, is broad, and even xenobiology and medicine hold no secrets to these field-hardened specialists.

The survey of Saidainope brings unexpected results and a breakthrough in neurology, and its findings were passed to Society Research Department which was ordered to pursue the topic as soon as possible.








03.12.2470

Imperial Admiralty Design Bureau adds four new designs to the roster as newest Impulse Thrusters and plasma-based Afterburners, along with new layers of armor and/or highest-power Shield generators, become available.

Geier Corvette, Schönkopf Destroyer and Weisse Krähe Cruiser are implementation of these new technologies to already existing designs.

Meanwhile, the Battlerships see their split in designs; the Luitbold is the the newest, carrier-oriented design. Meanwhile, the Neustadt, is the upgrade of the Barbarossa design, partially also pushed because of the wish of the Admiralty to fix the design flaw of Barbarossa's core hangars.

And finally, the Iserlohn Defense Platform sees its 3rd iteration, replacing the Cloud Lightning artillery with extra missile launchers.



04.12.2470

The creation of 15th Imperial Fleet, based as Tadasca, was announced the next day; incorporating the newest designs, it will have an even split of Luitbolds and Neustadts to create a hybrid fighting force.

Other fleets will begin much needed upgrades of the venerable Herdubreid Battlerships as well, incorporating the new dual-role tactical split idea.

Meanwhile, Patrol Squadrons were issued orders to replace their obsolete K99 Corvettes with Falke design that will be used as Patrol Squadron template for the forthcoming decades at the very least.



28.06.2471

A diplomatic conference with Ketlings have ended in them rejecting the generous offer of the Galactic Empire to protect them in exchange for pledge of loyalty and taxation.

Few hours later, Kaiserin Katarin ordered Aludra Fortress to go to state of alert and for 13th and 14th Fleets, currently outside scope of refits, to move to Aludra Starzone with haste.



08.08.2472

Kaiserin Katarin, in a passionate speech, declares that state of war exists between the Ketlings and the Galactic Empire.

In the same moment, the 14th Fleet under command of Wenzel Scheidt is dispatched to strike its central Starzone - Xolomon.

13th Fleet will, after finishing its journey to Aludra Starzone, depart on a raiding campaign into deeper parts of Ketling space.



15.10.2472

To ensure that the Ketling Star Pack will now have a chance to raise its head from the ashes, Kaiserin Katarin gave consent to destroy and bombard both military and civilian targets within Ketling territory.

This includes colony ships, science vessels, habitats, planetary colonies and engineering barges.



13.07.2473

Yamither Starzone: the site of first 'proper' battle between the Empire and the Ketlings.

Despite the ring of protective satellites and a modest-sized Armada, the Ketlings are soundly defeated by the 13th Fleet.



08.08.2473

The wanton slaughter of Ketlings does not sit well with part of the fighting force, and Admiral Martin von Grimmelshausen in particular voiced his displeasure with this 'dishonorable' task.

In turn, Kaiserin Katarin ordered an investigation to be launched to look into apparent indulgence of the Admiral in certain narcotics and Zro inhalations.



10.09.2473

Following a sudden illness of Martin von Grimmelhausen during Battle of Zabeen Starzone, the elderly Admiral was recalled from his position.

Newly promoted Admiral Jürgen Schürer was assigned to command of the 13th Fleet and ordered to subjugate Tropallum Starzone before returning to Xolomon, where 14th Fleet under Wenzel Scheidt would take the 13th's raiding duties.

As for veteran Admiral Martin von Grimmelhausen, he would die of ill health on 5th May 2475, aged 96.



14.07.2474

10th Fleet's victories on the battlefield against the Drones does not match the luck of its leading commanders.

Sieglinde Bayerlein has began acting very erratically, and was thusly replaced by Lieselotte Halster, recently promoted to rank of full Admiral after showing courage during series of skirmishes in Suulan system.

She leads the 10th Fleet to victor in Potap Starzone, and concludes the campaign; Imperial Admiralty orders the 10th Fleet to return to Urakhannon's Maw Starzone.



18.09.2475

Death claims the life of Maximillian Josef Schrer, the venerable director of Xeno-Archeology Department.

A full state funeral was hosted by the Imperial Government for the deceased Herr Schrer, while the leadership of XAD, now restricted basically to the science vessel Botanik II, was given to a middle-aged but not very accomplished Florian von Neuestauffen.



30.03.2477

Blockade run within Tiqim Starzone, deep in Ketling space, is interrupted by Admiral Wenzel Scheidt's 14th Fleet.

The main body of the blockade runners is broken and the minor Armadas, no doubt intenting to retake outposts on the way till Xolomon Starzone, are chased down and destroyed.



01.05.2477

The victories of Ketling Campaign are interwoven with minor tragedies back on the Imperial soil.

Hero and veteran of L-Cluster campaign, Admiral Arle Falstrong, dies at extremely advanced age of 139. A full military funeral was sponsored by Imperial Government, while Kaiserin Katarin ordered a statue to be built in his honor in front of the Imperial Admiralty Central Command Headquarters on Odin.





05.10.2477

Ushimaria Starzone turns out to be the major mining and shipbuilding hub for Ketling Star Pack, and on this date the 14th Fleet begins its subjugation.

Despite the local Armada being negligible in firepower, the ring of defense platforms surrounding Ushimaria Fortress proves a tough nut to crack.

In the end, the 14th Fleet's losses would be 9 K130 Corvettes and 5 Rücke Destroyers, the largest loss in the entire campaign for either of participating Fleets.



05.12.2477

A minor battle occurs at this date; the forces of Grand Duchy of Basel, under command of Admirals Hildegard Markgraf and Johanna Pfänder engage remnants of the Ketling Mipsi Armada that emerged within the Xolomon Starzone along with a chain of transport ships and refugees.

The Ducal ships easily overpower the damaged vessels and sink the civilian ships as well, preventing any interference at the rear lines of the campaign.

After the war's conclusion, Kaiserin Katarin would send gifts and letters of gratitude to the soldiers and officers of Basel.



01.01.2480

Three years later, the fierce campaign winds down to a closure; Imperial diplomats are pushing their demands towards the Ketlings, whose will to fight is dampened day by day.

Victorious soldiers celebrate their victories while elderly Admirals consider the peaceful futures for themselves; while their younger counterparts curse the day as opportunities for fame and recognition are being reduced to zero.

Could it be true that after three centuries of fighting, the Galactic Empire would embark on an era of peace and tranquility?

Is 'universal peace' and 'galactic unity' truly achievable in the Milky Way Galaxy? Only the almighty Odin would know...

TO BE CONTINUED...

[Loud Whispers]

We must protect the Ketlings! From their own corrupt bureaucracy!

[Haspen]

Chapter 17: Imperial History Kaleidoscope: The Path Through the 26th Century

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

07.01.2481

Kronprinzessin Elizabeth, the longest to hold the title within the Empire, dies at age 107.

Two months later, the Imperial Household Agency announces that Gustav, Elizabeth's grandson, was raised to the position of Kronprinz.

Merely 22 years old, he is considered more of an administrator than warrior, having just recently finished his studies in terraforming and architecture.



27.12.2486

The last of the Admirals who partook in the Battle of Ocheron, Jürgen Ansbach, dies at age 118.

Kaiserin Katarin ordered that the entire Admiral group is commemorated with a monument.



10.03.2488

The Ketling-Human war comes to an end at this date; it took years of planetary conquest before the Ketlings budged under demands of the Kaiserin to kneel before her.

Immediately after the truce was announced, the Imperial Government have renounced the supremacist policies, in favor of development and peaceful expansion, under urging of the Kronprinz Gustav.

This meant a drastic cutting of Imperial Admiralty's budget, but their protests were brushed aside.



02.05.2491

The newly established Stockhausen colony falls victim to some infighting which Society Research Department denies being their fault.

After few weeks of the crisis, the Imperial Government has declared the matter top secret and forbids visitations to Stockhausen colony.

A military expedition would follow, and Stockhausen colony would be rebuilt in 2497.



18.03.2493

A report sent by the Hojjam Starzone Outpost puts the Imperial Admiralty on alert.

Kaiserin Katarin personally orders Admiral Johanna Wagenseil and the 12th Fleet to subjugate the asteroid drone-beings.

12th Fleet accomplishes this by late 2496.




03.04.2493

A month later, Kaiserin Katarin announces the doctrine of Eternal Vigilance, partially to prevent and pre-empt such disastrous situations.

And few weeks later, the Psionics Research Sub-Department establishes a mental link with Sea of Counsciousness on Krumbach, exposing them to the missing link in Karl von Thurneysen's theories from late 23rd century.

Despite this, the psionic-capable Humans within the Empire would amount for less than 1% of its entire population.



25.02.2500

The final Starzone that makes part of the Milky Way Hyperlane network is claimed by the Galactic Empire, which can now boasts to have its name equal its form.

The great, celebratory ball on Odin is attended by the elderly Kaiserin Katarin, who hoped that the future of Humanity would be as bright as the galaxy it now rules.



01.01.2504

The Bertz Penal Colony is established in Astrade Starzone.

Part of Steiermark Region, it will be the home of serial criminals and dissidents, and those who will not be able to function within its infrastructure will be sent into the irradiated wastelands.

The colony itself will also be a major Rare Crystal mining site, which will greatly help with current demand for the resource.



20.03.2509

Kaiserin Katarin I von Goldenbaum dies of old age.

Gustav becomes the next Kaiser of the Galactic Empire; his daughter, Elizabeth, aged 21, is made Kronprinzessin in a ceremony a week after Katarin I's funeral.

Kaiser Gustav immediatelly calls for a more cooperative policy to be pursued by the Imperial Government; restrictions on pursuit of Artificial Intelligence development, once put in by Kaiserin Katarin, were also lifted.



11.09.2509

Policies and endorsements by the new Kaiser have upset the power balance within the Imperial Parliament.

Most importantly, while Academy of Technological Mastery was given extra funding, the activities of Human Unity Vanguard were to be curbed.



07.12.2511

Kaiser Gustav, besides pursuing political change, worked hard to improve the administration. Using the bureaucratic machine of the Empire, he was able to push for better wages for miners as well as strengthen the borders through series of edicts.

This greatly upset the administration and thus a new bureaucratic center was needed - the Stockhausen colony, heart of the Region with the same name, was quickly rebuilt into one.

Furthermore, he would change the policies regarding xenos - in 2519, purges were abolished, and in 2521, the only acceptable form of slavery was indentured servitude with basic rights and decent living conditions ensured by Imperial law.



13.10.2524

Following a lengthy campaign by Emperor Gustav, the popularity of Human Purity Vanguard massively dropped.

So much that, the Academy of Technological Mastery was now ranked 3rd most popular of all factions.



02.08.2527

Imperial Admiralty Design Bureau finishes the 'Ragnarok Project'; a blueprint for a massive Titan-class warship. It would be expensive to build them in large numbers, but two were scheduled for delivery to 1st and 2nd Imperial Fleets.

The Ragnarok would be also first Imperial warships equipped with a military-grade Jump Drive. In the coming years, Jump Drives would be incorporated into new designs of all lower-tier Imperial warships as well.

Ragnarok ships are so massive, that they require separate construction docks; the five Imperial Shipyards - Sol, Sirius, Busim, Urakhannon's Maw and Tadasca - were given orders to expand their facilities and include Titan assembly yards.

On the same day that Ragnarok Project was finished, Imperial Admiralty announced disbandment of Patrol Reserve, as this unit no longer has any meaning now that entirety of Galaxy is properly secured by Patrol Squadrons and Fortresses.








05.05.2539

A decade of testing later, the numerous technologies spearheded by Ragnark Project were to be implemented in all Imperial warship classes.

The transition to K152 Corvettes, Mückenberger Destroyers, Salerkrantz Cruisers, Alviss/Beowulf Battleships, and Iserlohn-IV Defense Platforms was mandatory for all Imperial Fleets, and would require over six years of refits.




03.12.2547

The Galactic Empire, without enemy to fight, introspectively looks for weaknesses to remove.

Imperial Government was always a bit too slow for the likes of some Emperors, Gustav included, and he announced a new Executive Vigor system to make it more adaptable and robust.



04.04.2549

Proxima Centauri b was once a barren, icy world. For the past 30 years, the Human engineers toiled to turn it into a pristine, tropical, pleasure planet.

That is now the Feuerbach colony, and while the development would take another decade, the entertainment venues and grandiose hotels would be a beacon of luxury, inviting millions of visitors each year.

About the same time, the creation of 16th and 17th Fleets was announced by Imperial Admiralty; the former stationed at Sol, the latter, at Tadasca.




02.03.2557

The Imperial Government under direction of Emperor Gustav, after decades-long propaganda and re-education campaigns, have embraced materialism and openess in thinking, much to the delight of elderly ruler.

This caused the Human Purity Vanguard's ratings to drop even further, soon putting it on the fringes of political stage.

With major upgrade and restructurization projects at various Imperial Starbases, the logistical power of the Admiralty allowed it to create the 18th Fleet. Based at Urakhannon's Maw, it would boast 4 Ragnarok Titans, 12 Alviss Battleships, and a flotilla of Destroyers and Corvettes for escort.




03.10.2571

Following the forays into the sciences of Mega-Engineering, Emperor Gustav ordered that the ancient structures are to be testbeds of HUmanity's capabilities.

Sensor Array and the Strategic Coordination Center were the two megastructures that would be reconstructed; Living Metal was used for these projects, and the whole affair triggered an architectural renaissance, backed by Imperial Government itself.



30.03.2575

Emperor Gustav's death at advanced age 116 was followed by ascension of Empress Elizabeth II, age 89.

Due to her old age, many began currying favor with her grandson Alexander, who in fact shared many ideas and interests with the Empress, especially in terms of promoting family growth and development of agriculture.



13.01.2576

One thing of note during reign of Elizabeth II was destruction of the 'Vluur', a massive cloud being.

It was deemed necessary due to Vluur's recent reappearance in Starzones of high traffic and strategic importance.



03.06.2578

The other was re-activation of the Coordination Center and Sentry Array.

The celebrations of the former was attended by the Empress, and the latter by Crown Prince Alexander.



24.11.2580

The greatest achievement, however, would be complete overturn of the ancient policy of the Goldenbaum Dynasty: xenophobia.

The prohibition of slavery within the Empire also coincided with a migration treaty with Ketling Star Pack; now, Ketlings and even descendants of Czyrni refugees were allowed to migrate into Imperial territory.



25.08.2593

Another of the Megastructures that laid dormant within Imperial Territory has been restored.

One more remains - the Interstellar Assembly - but the Imperial Government has decided not to restore it, considering that Imperial Ministry of Foreign Affairs has no need for additional envoys or extra offices.



18.08.2595

Reign of Empress Elizabeth II lasts slightly over 20 years before Alexander ascends to the throne. His first major proclamation is that of 'Nutritional Plentitude', which strains the administration a bit but enforces that every free citizen of Galactic Empire has plenty of food and, if unable to procure some on their own, receives food shipments from the Government.

On 1st December, Imperial Government announces that Katarine, Alexander's only daughter, has been elevated to the rank of Crown Princess.



11.03.2596

To better protect the frontier colonies in the galactic north-east, Rixikar's Maw Starbase will be enlarged to the Citadel-class and made into a Shipyard.

Further plans involve this Shipyard to become the base for the 19th and 20th Fleets, which are currently planned by Imperial Admiralty on behest of Emperor Alexander.



01.01.2600

The 26th century came and went, a century of economical prosperity and technological breakthroughs.

It was also a century of socio-political change, a new, softer approach to rulership and opening the borders for the non-Humans.

What awaits the Galactic Empire in the next century? Will they continue to grow and proper? Or maybe, the mists of stagnation will soon fall upon the galaxy?

TO BE CONTINUED...

[Haspen]

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