As the Macharian crusade reaches it's zenith, a small sub-fleet discovers a planet ravaged by war and covered in a dangerous xenos crystal.
We are going to have to act if we’re going to live in a different world (Command and Conquer/Warhammer 40k)
- Thread starter NottheCrabs!
- Start date
- Crossover
- Created
- Status
- Ongoing
- Watchers
- 115
- Recent readers
- 0
- Threadmarks
- 5
-
Statistics (5 threadmarks, 6.1k words)
User Total NottheCrabs! 5
Prologue: For The Glory Of The Emperor
NottheCrabs!
Local fool making foolish things
- Location
- The Bottom of The Ocean
I am Inquisitor Gartrum Vargarius of the Ordo Hereticus. A loyal servant of The God Emperor of Man and one of his many, many agents in Segmentum Pacificus. For over three centuries I have served loyally and truthfully in the farthest reaches of the Imperium, never once falling to the trepidations of the archenemy. I have purged hundreds of worlds of corruption, shattered thousands of cults, fought the most deceitful and infectious entities our foes have to offer and remained faithful to our most holy saviour. I say this not as a boast, but as proof, proof that I am no renegade. For there are many, especially my more puritanical comrades, who shall declare me such.
Which would only make sense to them. After all. I am saying that the known history of Saint Macharius; the most renowned and devoted Lord Solar the Imperium has ever known, is a lie. That the Macharian crusade was not halted by the frail and impious minds of the common soldier, but instead a single disastrous campaign in which a single planet on the brink of self-destruction brought the largest crusade since The Emperor walked to it's knees. The reasons for this deceit is many and varied, although the political blow to the Senatorum Imperialis if it was found their chosen general almost destroyed both his forces and his previous conquests is certainly high among them. Attached to this file through means my Techpriests are privy to - but I am not - are the thousands of accounts and other data files from the various generals, soldiers, and even opponents of The Macharian Crusade that I have acquired over the course of my century of research. Hopefully these raw documents will show those still unconvinced of the truth of my words, as well as the truths I will continue to say in between said files. Glory to the Emperor, May His light shine upon us all.
Which would only make sense to them. After all. I am saying that the known history of Saint Macharius; the most renowned and devoted Lord Solar the Imperium has ever known, is a lie. That the Macharian crusade was not halted by the frail and impious minds of the common soldier, but instead a single disastrous campaign in which a single planet on the brink of self-destruction brought the largest crusade since The Emperor walked to it's knees. The reasons for this deceit is many and varied, although the political blow to the Senatorum Imperialis if it was found their chosen general almost destroyed both his forces and his previous conquests is certainly high among them. Attached to this file through means my Techpriests are privy to - but I am not - are the thousands of accounts and other data files from the various generals, soldiers, and even opponents of The Macharian Crusade that I have acquired over the course of my century of research. Hopefully these raw documents will show those still unconvinced of the truth of my words, as well as the truths I will continue to say in between said files. Glory to the Emperor, May His light shine upon us all.
Chapter 1: Approach
NottheCrabs!
Local fool making foolish things
- Location
- The Bottom of The Ocean
ACT l
General Diomedes looked over the command bridge of The Emperors Hatred, the mood was tense, and the reason why was obvious. A holographic image of the planet they were meant to conquer was displayed in front of the captain's seat, a hue of grey clouds and blue skies. Far more importantly, patches of the planet seemed to be covered in deep green clouds, swirling in vortexes Diomedes only remembered from the harshest of Ocean worlds.
Captain Frederick looked over the planet with a bored expression. Pointing over the holographic display with the energy of an overworked and egotistical academic. "A third of the planet is wracked by megastorms and radioactive zones, half of the planet is barren wasteland, and only a quarter can be described as habitable." Frederick returned to the captain's chair, downing the cup of recaff beside it in moments. "Hardly the paradise world the Explorators noted centuries ago."
Diomedes did his best to contain the disdain in his voice "It's still a human planet in need of the guiding light of The God Emperor." He had long learned that the captain viewed planets and their populations much the same way a noble viewed lower hives: disgusting cesspits that they had no intention of getting close to. "Any other changes?"
The General could practically feel Frederick roll his eyes "Military stations. A dozen we can see, maybe more. Each with a small lance. Nothing we can't break through, but orbital supremacy will be more difficult."
Diomedes took in the information given and analysed it closely: the planet in its current state was harsh and unforgiving, which would breed a harsh and unforgiving people. Less experienced than his Guard, but better than the average PDF. The existence of lance batteries showed near-parity in technology with the Imperium.
It would be a difficult conquest with his forces alone.
"We speak with the locals." Diomedes decided "With time they will see the truth and join without a fight, if not, we can at least try and find some minor power to back our invasion."
*****
Director Isabella Sevilla poured through the various reports on her laptop received since the extra-terrestrials arrival in the solar system. Normally this would be a simple task differed to her aides, but inside the cramped shuttle transporting her from The Philadelphia back to Reykjavik there wasn't the space for such administrative staff. The rushed evacuation from the Energy Summit was an understandable precaution with this new unknown: If it truly came to blows, the Philadelphia would be on the front line. Sevilla frowned then as she saw several reports from general Mitchell and Granger suggesting absurd increases to military spending. Did the warhounds ever sleep?
"Director Sevilla?"
Isabella turned to the sudden voice, after all, she had expected it sooner or later. She quickly focused on the Shuttle-integrated GDI Comm-station, where the jittery doctor's voice emanated from "Dr Kareem. What have you got for me?"
Kareem wiped the sweat from his forehead, the sounds of commotion audible from outside his office "Well not much I'm afraid. My team can find no similarities between these visitors and the UFO captured during the Second Tiberium war."
"Nothing?" Isabella raised an eyebrow "Doctor, are you certain there are no similarities."
"None whatsoever!" The Doctor exclaimed in frustration. "Different propulsion, different design, different materials. There are some carvings into the ships that look like writing but they're closer to Latin than anything we've seen from the Tacitus. Everything else is unknown!"
"Keep on looking into it Doctor." Isabella replied before refocussing on a new transmission stream from the Philadelphia itself. "General Jin, what is the situation."
"More confusing than anything else at the Moment Ma'am." Jin replied in his usual emotionless tone "We just received a transmission from the Extra-terrestrials, you're going to want to hear this."
Isabella was met with a transmission full of static and distortion "This is General Diomedes of The Imperium of Man, we come in peace and are glad to see fellow brothers of humanity so far from civilised space. We request a landing destination so our leaders can discuss this sudden and to you shocking reconnection with the galaxy."
Isabella stared at the screen for a moment, before turning back to the tempered visage of General Jin. "This has to be a translation error."
Jin shook his head "I don't think so director. They've been sending transmissions on five second intervals since we first got this, they all say they're human, and that they're peaceful."
Isabella looked back at the professional and unperturbed gaze of The Commander of all GDI forces. None of this makes sense. The very fact that these visitors understood English was already too good to be true, the claim that they were humans was just absurd.
Isabella let it all wash away: her questions could all be answered by their new guests shortly anyhow. "If they want to talk. We'll play their game." She said with a practiced calm "Tell them to land at Munich Airport, and that we don't want more than a hundred delegates."
Jin raised his eyebrow "New Eden Ma'am?"
She nodded "Reyjavik is a fortress, general, they might view it as an intimidation tactic." She paused a moment, turning towards the glass window of the shuttle: the earth engulfed the entire view. If you looked close enough, Sevilla was certain you could see thin veins of glowing green between the ion storms of the Red Zones "and they need to know the dangers of Tiberium, General. Best they get as close a look as possible."
*****
Kilian sighed, staring at the command screen where more and more shuttles where seen exciting the Philadelphia "and so the opportunity has passed. GDI escapes retribution once again."
"I am sorry General, the failing is my own." The static laden voice of Commander Ferreira said with regret "If I had moved faster-"
"GDI would have discovered your forces and the attack would fail." The voice of Kane says suddenly from behind her, Kilian turns to The Prophet, the calm and calculating demeanour she knew him for clear on his face "Which is why you moved so carefully in the first place?"
Commander Ferreira is silent for a moment "Yes Prophet." He says with certainty.
Kane smiled "Then you have nothing to apologise for." With a wave of his hand Kane dismisses the Commander.
Kilian had long knew The Prophet always had a plan, that he never was caught unawares, but she could not help the confusion in her voice. "I'm sorry sir but I don't understand. This was the crucial first blow of our campaign – a decapitation strike that would give us the edge."
"One opportunity passes and another arises." Kane replied, turning to the red stained windows nearby "I know of these visitors, they're leader is…" If Kilian didn't know better, she could have sworn The Prophet was looking for the right words "…a terrible diplomat. It will not take long for our new guests and GDI to come to blows." Kane turned back, and gently rested his hand on Kilian's shoulder "Just a little more patience Qatar, we have already come so far."
Chapter 2: Slave to the system
NottheCrabs!
Local fool making foolish things
- Location
- The Bottom of The Ocean
"Sierra Team, Status?"
Captain Luis stopped scanning the airfield to respond "Still in position, no anomalies."
"Understood, keep an eye out."
"Commander's getting antsy, eh?" his spotter, Freis, commented as he continued to watch through his binoculars.
Luis returned to his rifle sight, scanning the Munich airport, It was just behind the wall that separated recovered Munich from the wasteland that was the German yellow zone. The backdrop was heavily garrisoned, with hundreds of soldiers from Luis regiment standing where normally there would be just dozens. "We're about to meet literal goddamned aliens. Of course he's worried." He turned his sight to the Airfield itself, where the various Predator Tanks and other lighter vehicles continued their constant patrols "Surprised the Brotherhood hasn't tried something already, honestly."
"Knock on wood." Freis replied as an ORCA flew overhead of their position, leading into a moment of silence. "What do you think they'll look like?" Freis finally asked.
Luis shrugged "They call themselves humans."
"Yeah right. If they aren't at least blue I'll eat my hat." Freis scoffed.
"Sierra Team, envoys are ready to land, keep an eye on them."
"Roger commander." Luis radioed in, turning his rifle to the landing zone. Already the suits were there, looking stiffer than the guards around them. Then a dull roar could be heard in the distance and he saw them three large and bulky aircraft. At first that was all he could tell, but as they grew in his vision Luis was able to make more defined traits: their wings were little more than stubs joined to the aircraft by two large engines at the top, the rest of the aircraft was flat surfaces with the occasional jutting sensor and panel. Then, as the aircraft landed, he saw the symbols of a two-headed bird plastered on every available surface, with writing that looked disturbingly human below it. For a few moments the craft we're still, until suddenly the back door flew open.
"Fuck me." Freis swore, Luis was too busy staring at the obviously and completely human people now walking out of the shuttle. Each of them walked out one by one in their uniforms, some had serious augments on their limbs, but besides that they were strictly human. Then Luis frowned; each man and woman he saw exit the plane looked like an officer or soldier, with the weapons and uniforms to match. One had a deep black and red coat with enough skulls to remind him of some rather unpleasant history lessons.
Then the last one left the craft, and Luis quickly joined in on the swearing. It was a cyborg, with tendrils pouring out of flowing red robes. He got a chance to look at one of its hands and quickly regretted it. The wires and bolts and exposed flesh merging together making his whole body itch. It moved like it was on treads, and from the lack of movement underneath the robes almost certainly was. Then behind him came what looked like a floating human skull filled with wires. Luis gritted his teeth as memories of the Firestorm crisis flowed through: the screeching howl of an eternal ion storm, the screams of the wounded and dying, and the endless mechanical march of lobotomised slaves that were once human beings.
"You know, I think I would have preferred aliens." Freis quipped beside him.
Luis took a deep breath, and nodded. "let's just hope they mean well."
Diomedes walked down the sterile halls in silence, surrounded by a mix of Imperial representatives, local bureaucrats, and scientists. The "Director" and her GDI seemed reasonable enough, if a remnant of the planets naive pre-apocalyptic order. The existence of a single planetary government would make annexation and integration much faster, and while the existence of democratic norms and independent researchers would be issues for the Administratum and Mechanicus, that was in the end not his problem.
"And here is the cause of our planets current situation." The Director said, gesturing to a large and wide glass window screen, behind which several glowing green and blue crystals were kept in small glass cages.
"Fascinating." Diomedes responded, peering closely at the glowing crystals. He was almost certain one of the specimens was growing before his eyes, but just as quickly it seemed to crumble to its original state. "I take it this is not from your world then?"
"No, it isn't." The Director responded "Tiberium is extra-terrestrial, extremely invasive, and incredibly dangerous." From the tone of the Directors voice, Diomedes could tell this was rehersed "A man can step on a small crystal with his boot on a thirty minute walk, and by the end it would have started burning through his leg, all the while spreading itself with each step it takes." With a turn and a nod one of the various researchers gave Diomedes a series of pictures as the Director continued "The luckiest will remain sentient, if mutated. The rest suffer a slow and painful death or complete mutagenic deterioration. Neither are a pretty site."
Diomedes looked through the pictures, the deaths were interesting, but what he was really interested in where the pictures of mutation. "I am sorry for what has happened to your world." Diomedes said empathetically "The galaxy is a hostile place, and I wouldn't be surprised if some Xenos purposefully infested this your world with this crystal."
The Director seemed to contemplate his words. "That was a common theory some decades ago actually. Do you have a culprit?"
Diomedes shook his head "Not that I know of, but the Imperium would be more than willing to help you discover the origins of this 'Tiberium'" he smiled "and if you'll allow us, to halt its spread."
Many of the officials around The Director seemed nervous about his wording, but if The Director noticed she didn't show it "Something we will have to discuss later." She replied.
Diomedes continued looking through the pictures, the images of mutation we're patently horrific. Fleshy tendrils, ravenous jaws, and completely amorphous piles of what clearly was a human long ago giving a clear picture of the reality of the situation. Then he got to the final pictures: Mutants like those from a hive city, abominations just human enough to send feelings of disgust down every loyal subject's back, skin splitting in areas to give way to the shining green and blue of the Xenos Crystal. "I suppose these are the lucky ones." Diomedes tried not to gag at the insinuation that these were still people: diplomacy was important at this early hour "I have not seen any among you, who are they?"
"The Forgotten." The Director said with regret "We were once allies, but tensions were still high. They decided to leave for the most Tiberium-infested zones instead of getting caught in further conflict."
Allies!? Diomedes couldn't stand it, the thought or working with mutants in any situation was traitorous, heretical even! "If their numbers grow with Tiberium exposure, how can you be so sure they haven't been spreading it on purpose?" He said dumbstruck.
The room went silent, several of the locals looked furious, the rest simply stared. Eventually the Director responded with glaring eyes. "That is a serious accusation General, I'd recommend you think before saying something like that again."
No. No! Why on earth wouldn't mutants do such a thing!? Their only purpose was to infest and sabotage. "I-"
Diomedes felt a tug on his shoulder, he turned to see the half-covered face of Techpriest Kavion staring into him with cybernetic eyes. Diomedes stared in confusion for a moment, the rage slowly simmering. Since their first step on this world the Techpriest had been silent. Eventually Diomedes realised the severity of his error, and nodded to the Techpriest to take the lead.
"MY APOLOGIES FOR THE IMPULSIVE WORDS OF MY COMPATRIOT." Kavion said in a robotic, but smooth, voice "HIS HOMEWORLD HAS HAD CONFLICTS WITH MUTANTS MUCH LIKE YOURS IN THE RECENT PAST. THE REACTION IS DEPLORABLE, BUT UNDERSTANDABLE IN SUCH CONTEXT. CORRECT?"
The room was quiet for a second, and then the Director sighed "If this was going to be a problem, perhaps the Imperium could have sent diplomats alongside their soldiers."
Kavion nodded "A MAJOR ISSUE I WILL BE SURE TO DISCUSS WITH MY SUPERIORS" The techpriest lied "SHALL WE CONTINUE?"
"Yes. But no more outbursts please." The Director implored.
The Flight back to the ship was silent but for the dull roar of engines, Diomedes head firmly staring down onto the floor as the groaning continued. He could tell the other officers we're trying to hide their displeasure at the situation, but he had spent too long in the guard to fall for such simple masks.
"Quite the accomplishment." The tired voice of Frederick said from the Vox. "I knew ground-pounders were oafish at best, but being less eloquent than an Ork is the best example I've seen yet."
Diomedes seethed "Enough with the insults. We can discuss it-"
"There is nothing to discuss" The Captain interrupted "The locals unfortunate choices and your own incompetence has sent any chance of a diplomatic solution straight into the ground. We're on a timetable, General. The crusade won't wait while you give every diplomat in the sector a heart attack."
The Voice on the Vox went silent then, and Diomedes couldn't help but ball his hands into fists. He had led men and women, fought countless opponents, led from the front against Orks and traitors alike. Earnt his position. And this minor Captain continued to respond with nothing but contempt and insults. No matter the situation.
"HIS ASSESSMENT IS CORRECT." The voice of Kavion said after a moment "IF FOR THE WRONG REASONS."
Diomedes turned his head to Kavion, defeated. "and why is that?"
"I HAVE BEEN SCANNING THIS WORLDS TECHNOLOGY SINCE WE ENTERED ORBIT." The Techpriest halted a moment, a common sign that an internal calculation was being made. "WHAT I HAVE SEEN CONFIRMS IT. MUCH OF THE TECHNOLOGY IN USE BY GDI RELY ON THE XENOS CRYSTAL IN SOME WAY. EITHER AS A POWER SOURCE OR IN MANUFACTURING MATERIALS."
"Tech Heresy." Diomedes murmured.
Kavion shook his head. "SOME WILL CONSIDER IT TECH HERESY, MANY WILL WANT TO RESEARCH IT, THAT IS ITSELF THE ISSUE. THE MECHANICUM MUST HAVE COMPLETE CONTROL OF ALL KNOWLEDGE ON THIS CRYSTAL BEFORE A DECISION CAN BE MADE. CONFLICT IS THE MOST EFFICIENT SOLUTION."
Captain Luis stopped scanning the airfield to respond "Still in position, no anomalies."
"Understood, keep an eye out."
"Commander's getting antsy, eh?" his spotter, Freis, commented as he continued to watch through his binoculars.
Luis returned to his rifle sight, scanning the Munich airport, It was just behind the wall that separated recovered Munich from the wasteland that was the German yellow zone. The backdrop was heavily garrisoned, with hundreds of soldiers from Luis regiment standing where normally there would be just dozens. "We're about to meet literal goddamned aliens. Of course he's worried." He turned his sight to the Airfield itself, where the various Predator Tanks and other lighter vehicles continued their constant patrols "Surprised the Brotherhood hasn't tried something already, honestly."
"Knock on wood." Freis replied as an ORCA flew overhead of their position, leading into a moment of silence. "What do you think they'll look like?" Freis finally asked.
Luis shrugged "They call themselves humans."
"Yeah right. If they aren't at least blue I'll eat my hat." Freis scoffed.
"Sierra Team, envoys are ready to land, keep an eye on them."
"Roger commander." Luis radioed in, turning his rifle to the landing zone. Already the suits were there, looking stiffer than the guards around them. Then a dull roar could be heard in the distance and he saw them three large and bulky aircraft. At first that was all he could tell, but as they grew in his vision Luis was able to make more defined traits: their wings were little more than stubs joined to the aircraft by two large engines at the top, the rest of the aircraft was flat surfaces with the occasional jutting sensor and panel. Then, as the aircraft landed, he saw the symbols of a two-headed bird plastered on every available surface, with writing that looked disturbingly human below it. For a few moments the craft we're still, until suddenly the back door flew open.
"Fuck me." Freis swore, Luis was too busy staring at the obviously and completely human people now walking out of the shuttle. Each of them walked out one by one in their uniforms, some had serious augments on their limbs, but besides that they were strictly human. Then Luis frowned; each man and woman he saw exit the plane looked like an officer or soldier, with the weapons and uniforms to match. One had a deep black and red coat with enough skulls to remind him of some rather unpleasant history lessons.
Then the last one left the craft, and Luis quickly joined in on the swearing. It was a cyborg, with tendrils pouring out of flowing red robes. He got a chance to look at one of its hands and quickly regretted it. The wires and bolts and exposed flesh merging together making his whole body itch. It moved like it was on treads, and from the lack of movement underneath the robes almost certainly was. Then behind him came what looked like a floating human skull filled with wires. Luis gritted his teeth as memories of the Firestorm crisis flowed through: the screeching howl of an eternal ion storm, the screams of the wounded and dying, and the endless mechanical march of lobotomised slaves that were once human beings.
"You know, I think I would have preferred aliens." Freis quipped beside him.
Luis took a deep breath, and nodded. "let's just hope they mean well."
*****
Diomedes walked down the sterile halls in silence, surrounded by a mix of Imperial representatives, local bureaucrats, and scientists. The "Director" and her GDI seemed reasonable enough, if a remnant of the planets naive pre-apocalyptic order. The existence of a single planetary government would make annexation and integration much faster, and while the existence of democratic norms and independent researchers would be issues for the Administratum and Mechanicus, that was in the end not his problem.
"And here is the cause of our planets current situation." The Director said, gesturing to a large and wide glass window screen, behind which several glowing green and blue crystals were kept in small glass cages.
"Fascinating." Diomedes responded, peering closely at the glowing crystals. He was almost certain one of the specimens was growing before his eyes, but just as quickly it seemed to crumble to its original state. "I take it this is not from your world then?"
"No, it isn't." The Director responded "Tiberium is extra-terrestrial, extremely invasive, and incredibly dangerous." From the tone of the Directors voice, Diomedes could tell this was rehersed "A man can step on a small crystal with his boot on a thirty minute walk, and by the end it would have started burning through his leg, all the while spreading itself with each step it takes." With a turn and a nod one of the various researchers gave Diomedes a series of pictures as the Director continued "The luckiest will remain sentient, if mutated. The rest suffer a slow and painful death or complete mutagenic deterioration. Neither are a pretty site."
Diomedes looked through the pictures, the deaths were interesting, but what he was really interested in where the pictures of mutation. "I am sorry for what has happened to your world." Diomedes said empathetically "The galaxy is a hostile place, and I wouldn't be surprised if some Xenos purposefully infested this your world with this crystal."
The Director seemed to contemplate his words. "That was a common theory some decades ago actually. Do you have a culprit?"
Diomedes shook his head "Not that I know of, but the Imperium would be more than willing to help you discover the origins of this 'Tiberium'" he smiled "and if you'll allow us, to halt its spread."
Many of the officials around The Director seemed nervous about his wording, but if The Director noticed she didn't show it "Something we will have to discuss later." She replied.
Diomedes continued looking through the pictures, the images of mutation we're patently horrific. Fleshy tendrils, ravenous jaws, and completely amorphous piles of what clearly was a human long ago giving a clear picture of the reality of the situation. Then he got to the final pictures: Mutants like those from a hive city, abominations just human enough to send feelings of disgust down every loyal subject's back, skin splitting in areas to give way to the shining green and blue of the Xenos Crystal. "I suppose these are the lucky ones." Diomedes tried not to gag at the insinuation that these were still people: diplomacy was important at this early hour "I have not seen any among you, who are they?"
"The Forgotten." The Director said with regret "We were once allies, but tensions were still high. They decided to leave for the most Tiberium-infested zones instead of getting caught in further conflict."
Allies!? Diomedes couldn't stand it, the thought or working with mutants in any situation was traitorous, heretical even! "If their numbers grow with Tiberium exposure, how can you be so sure they haven't been spreading it on purpose?" He said dumbstruck.
The room went silent, several of the locals looked furious, the rest simply stared. Eventually the Director responded with glaring eyes. "That is a serious accusation General, I'd recommend you think before saying something like that again."
No. No! Why on earth wouldn't mutants do such a thing!? Their only purpose was to infest and sabotage. "I-"
Diomedes felt a tug on his shoulder, he turned to see the half-covered face of Techpriest Kavion staring into him with cybernetic eyes. Diomedes stared in confusion for a moment, the rage slowly simmering. Since their first step on this world the Techpriest had been silent. Eventually Diomedes realised the severity of his error, and nodded to the Techpriest to take the lead.
"MY APOLOGIES FOR THE IMPULSIVE WORDS OF MY COMPATRIOT." Kavion said in a robotic, but smooth, voice "HIS HOMEWORLD HAS HAD CONFLICTS WITH MUTANTS MUCH LIKE YOURS IN THE RECENT PAST. THE REACTION IS DEPLORABLE, BUT UNDERSTANDABLE IN SUCH CONTEXT. CORRECT?"
The room was quiet for a second, and then the Director sighed "If this was going to be a problem, perhaps the Imperium could have sent diplomats alongside their soldiers."
Kavion nodded "A MAJOR ISSUE I WILL BE SURE TO DISCUSS WITH MY SUPERIORS" The techpriest lied "SHALL WE CONTINUE?"
"Yes. But no more outbursts please." The Director implored.
*****
The Flight back to the ship was silent but for the dull roar of engines, Diomedes head firmly staring down onto the floor as the groaning continued. He could tell the other officers we're trying to hide their displeasure at the situation, but he had spent too long in the guard to fall for such simple masks.
"Quite the accomplishment." The tired voice of Frederick said from the Vox. "I knew ground-pounders were oafish at best, but being less eloquent than an Ork is the best example I've seen yet."
Diomedes seethed "Enough with the insults. We can discuss it-"
"There is nothing to discuss" The Captain interrupted "The locals unfortunate choices and your own incompetence has sent any chance of a diplomatic solution straight into the ground. We're on a timetable, General. The crusade won't wait while you give every diplomat in the sector a heart attack."
The Voice on the Vox went silent then, and Diomedes couldn't help but ball his hands into fists. He had led men and women, fought countless opponents, led from the front against Orks and traitors alike. Earnt his position. And this minor Captain continued to respond with nothing but contempt and insults. No matter the situation.
"HIS ASSESSMENT IS CORRECT." The voice of Kavion said after a moment "IF FOR THE WRONG REASONS."
Diomedes turned his head to Kavion, defeated. "and why is that?"
"I HAVE BEEN SCANNING THIS WORLDS TECHNOLOGY SINCE WE ENTERED ORBIT." The Techpriest halted a moment, a common sign that an internal calculation was being made. "WHAT I HAVE SEEN CONFIRMS IT. MUCH OF THE TECHNOLOGY IN USE BY GDI RELY ON THE XENOS CRYSTAL IN SOME WAY. EITHER AS A POWER SOURCE OR IN MANUFACTURING MATERIALS."
"Tech Heresy." Diomedes murmured.
Kavion shook his head. "SOME WILL CONSIDER IT TECH HERESY, MANY WILL WANT TO RESEARCH IT, THAT IS ITSELF THE ISSUE. THE MECHANICUM MUST HAVE COMPLETE CONTROL OF ALL KNOWLEDGE ON THIS CRYSTAL BEFORE A DECISION CAN BE MADE. CONFLICT IS THE MOST EFFICIENT SOLUTION."
Chapter 3: Time Bomb.
NottheCrabs!
Local fool making foolish things
- Location
- The Bottom of The Ocean
Not proud of work this chapter but I've spent months tinkering with it with little success so FULL SPEED AHEAD!
Director Sevilla stared at the screen, General Diomedes stared back, expression cold and stern.
"This is insane."
"No." Diomedes said calmly "Refusal would be insane. Humanity cannot stand against the galaxy alone. We must be unified in body and spirit. I offer the resources, technology and expertise to help bring your world back from the brink."
"It's subjugation and genocide."
Diomedes sneered "Your 'Forgotten' are infected with the very same Xenos taint you wish to eradicate director. They are a liability." The foreign general's expression was filled with contempt, an awful mix of disgust and pure pride clear on his face. "Do you really think that your 'Tiberium' is the only danger in the stars? There are thousands of threats out there that could wipe your planet out in seconds. I am offering you protection and self-rule in return for the most minuscule of concessions Director."
Complete surrender of all technology, halting of all research, instituting a state religion, slaughtering a people to the very last. Minuscule. Sevilla snarled "We…" she bit down the impulsive refusal. This was going to end in war, she could see that now. But she could still buy time to prepare. "I need to discuss this with my staff."
Diomedes stood unflinching "You have three days."
Sevilla's mind raced "Please, general-"
"The Imperium waits for no one Director." Diomedes interrupted "And every day we lavish you with patience is another we are not serving it." He made an incomprehensible symbol with his hands and the transmission died.
Sevilla stood there, pure disbelief rushing through her mind. A week ago they had been conversing as apparently friendly equals. What caused the sudden change in diplomatic posture? A communication from a superior? Internal politicking in the fleet? Or did the Imperial general simply have that much of a grudge against mutants? Sevilla frowned, wiping the bewildered thoughts away. Diomedes seemed unlikely to answer any of her questions, and there was no ambassador or internal ally she could prod for information. She transferred the screen view to Jin "I want our forces mobilised now. Get everything we have online. Any plan you have has my full approval"
"Understood Ma'am." Jin said, a slight twitch in the generals left eye the only thing betraying his internal thoughts as he turned "All right people we're going to Threat level Red-3. I want every ion canon we've got online yesterday! I don't care how old it is." Jin bellowed as his transmission cut off.
Sevilla looked at the screen for a moment, war, war with people she didn't even knew existed a month ago, war against an enemy that could burn the planet down for all she knew.
She turned to the intercom "I need a message sent to The Forgotten directly, now."
*****
"Captain." The Radio officer shouted from his seat. "Multiple local defence batteries have changed their orbits. They're moving to attack range sir."
Captain Frederick Wiltoven Aktos gave the officer a nod before turning to the ships vox "They look to be declining your offer 'General'."
"I'm already preparing my forces for an invasion." Diomedes distorted voice rang through the bridge "Just give me-"
Frederick cut off the voxcall with a sneer "I want all ships on battle stations, turn their satellites into scrap."
*****
Ghost Stalker raised his hand, shielding his eyes from the gale force winds of the Indonesian Red Zone. The sky was a roiling green storm, flashes of lightning almost continuously flashing on the horizon. Even underneath the many ragged layers of clothing he could feel the spikes of airborne Tiberium crystals dig into his flesh. One of the many death sentences waiting for the unmutated in this hellscape. With his other hand he reached towards the reinforced steel door in front of him. Once, then twice he banged on it, loud and heavy enough that the people inside could easily hear even against the torrent. The door opened with a groan, and Stalker Reached for the partially-crystallised hand that reached out from the entrance.
"Sorry to interrupt your recon boss." The gargling voice of Karion said as he closed the door behind him. He was one of Ghost Stalkers first apprentices after the Firestorm crisis: a solid lump of muscle and meat with the brains to use it.
Stalker shrugged "It wasn't important. So what do the leaders want?"
"I don't know, but it seemed important." Karion replied "Everyone is in there, including Trogan and Makavian."
"Brilliant." Stalker said with a sigh, without a doubt the two would be at each other's throats in seconds. "Send fifth squad to take up my patrol once the storms cleared, you know what to do."
Karion gave a mock-salute with a sarcastic smirk "Sir yes Sir!"
The two walked together for a while in the rusted halls of the old bunker, overhead lights occasionally flickering, many electrical systems were completely dead, but the ventilation systems that kept everyone breathing worked as good as new. Occasionally they would pass residents who ran the full gamut of mutation. Some had the occasional scar-patch of exposed Tiberium, others seemed to have it growing out of their limbs in spikes; an unfortunate few hobbled, the Tiberium inside them pushing bone and rendering their limbs unusable. They all smiled when Stalker went by: He was a war hero after all, the last original member of The Forgottens own elite commando squad.
Which is why he was always wanted when The Forgotten leaders made a decision, even if he only stood silent and awaited orders. He was a soldier, not a leader.
Then the two split, Kavion moving to the armoury while Stalker continued to the bunkers primitive command centre. Opening the last door of the hall Stalker squeezed past the web of wires and jury-rigged components that kept the bunkers EVA 1.0 command and control system active.
"Ah, Ghost Stalker." The rasping voice of Nikun said: the octogenarian mutants face giving a warm smile to the commando. His face clearly seen in the well-lit room he was in. "It is good to see you Brother."
"It is good to see you too brother." Stalker said as he sat down.
Nikun nodded, face turning serious "Then everyone is here." The video feed shrank, showing the dozens of other Forgotten leaders across the world. "I speak to you all on such short notice for a situation of great importance has arisen that threatens to bring us back into the Blunts eternal conflicts." Nikun turned his face away from the video, deep in thought, before continuing. "GDI will soon be in conflict with our new visitors. They say these aliens wish to exterminate us." The meeting filled with whispers and murmurs. "In my opinion we have little reason to believe GDI at this time, and I have no knowledge of our new visitors. For those reasons I would continue our isolation, but I have never acted without the approval of my people. So, like when Traitos fell, I ask you to decide our destiny."
Ghost stalker looked at the various leaders, most of their expressions ranging from shocked to suspicious. The two he was most interested in we're Trogan and Makavian: Trogan appeared deep in thought, the former Nod spy's head lowered in contemplation. Makavians expression was one of barely contained disgust and rage, the marauders expression a teeth filled frown as he spoke up "The Exodus has failed!"
Nikun frowned, but stayed silent.
The green-veined marauder got up from his chair, the shouts of his few supporters emboldening the radical "Every decision we have made since Traitos breathed his last has been a mistake. Every year we hide in the farthest reaches of the planet is another the rest of humanity forgets us, forgets who we are." His hand was gripped close to his chest, fervour and sorrow mixed into a righteous duty that few in the forgotten could muster anymore. "This is our chance to remind them, to rebuild the alliance we once had. To ensure that we will never be forgotten." With that he raised his fist, and his supporters cheers seemed to engulf even the gale outside the bunker.
"Tiberium is the most dangerous threat humanity has ever faced, and we must do everything in our power to remove it from our world." Trogan cut through the cheers like a hot knife through butter.
Makavian sighed "Of course you would."
Trogan did not tend to smile, nor emote really. It was hard for anyone to get into the man's mind. But he always seemed to speak with a cold conviction. A self-assurance that would seem welcoming, if one didn't listen to the details too closely. "That was Director Sevilla's own words, Makavian." Trogan said as he raised his head, eyes giving away nothing but conviction equal to his opponent "GDI may treat us with a light hand for now, but they have shown their true colours before. GDI has no place for us in their 'pure' world."
"So say's the Brotherhood spy."
"That's enough Makavian!" Nikun interrupted before the two's argument could reach its inevitable peak "This is a debate on the future of the forgotten, all shall be allowed to say their piece, without accusation."
"Thank you Nikun." Trogan humbly bowed his head, turning back to his speech "GDI would have us join them in this war, use us as cannon fodder just as in the wars before. With our primitive technology that is all we're good for: scavengers thrown at the enemy while the elite and valuable GDI troops get the job done. But if these visitors are as big of a threat as claimed, we will soon have the opportunity to change all of that: to be respected by Nod and GDI as an equal."
Stalker had heard these speeches a dozen times, mostly in personal discussions, the various leaders trying their damndest to get his support in spite of his apolitical leanings. It was like hearing a recording on repeat for too long: dull, irritating, and in the end pointless. But as he turned his focus to Trogans most fervent supporters he noticed a tenseness that was unusual, no cheers, and no calm superiority. Just stress and worry.
"We can use this distraction. Attack GDI, steal their technology and use it to even the scales." Trogan said with as much certainty as any other of his statements.
It didn't take a second for Makavian's supporters to scream the idea down. Makavian himself looked like a bull seeing red, teeth grinding so much that Stalker was surprised they didn't smash apart immediately from the strain. All the while Nikun was changing from bafflement to outright panic as the other leaders stayed silent or even said support to Trogans absurd proposal. The reaction had hit Stalker like a freight train: the forgotten hadn't unified for a decision like this since the Exodus. And even with the fresh mourning of Tratos the idea of open war with GDI was never considered.
"I don't think that's a good idea."
Stalker waited until the room focused on his words before continuing "So we take GDI by surprise after they asked us for help, storm their bases, steal their tech. Kill tens of thousands at the absolute minimum. Then what? Powers with more manpower and technology have fought GDI before, all have failed. Give me a reason why these visitors would weaken GDI enough for this to succeed."
More than a few of the more supportive moderates were now awkwardly glancing away from their screens, others were in serious contemplation of the subject. Trogan had a blank mask of confidence, but said nothing.
The meeting continued for an hour, lesser players showing support or concerns for various plans. But in the end it was decided in favour of keeping the current course, if regretfully. Slowly video feeds blinked out as final words were said, until eventually only Nikun and Stalker remained.
"I must thank you." Nikun said "If it weren't for you I fear we may have made a horrible decision today."
Stalker shrugged "I don't play politics, I go where my people tell me. This was entirely my concern as a soldier and veteran."
"That is truly regretful, you would make a good leader."
Stalker chewed on those last words for a bit, before spitting them out. Maybe it was selfish, but the commando had always preferred dealing with problems head on rather than in a meeting room or a public forum.
"Sir!" Karion shouted as he slamed the door open. "You've got to see this."
Stalker already had his Gauss rifle in hand "What is it?"
"GDI's satellites are falling from the sky!"
Director Sevilla stared at the screen, General Diomedes stared back, expression cold and stern.
"This is insane."
"No." Diomedes said calmly "Refusal would be insane. Humanity cannot stand against the galaxy alone. We must be unified in body and spirit. I offer the resources, technology and expertise to help bring your world back from the brink."
"It's subjugation and genocide."
Diomedes sneered "Your 'Forgotten' are infected with the very same Xenos taint you wish to eradicate director. They are a liability." The foreign general's expression was filled with contempt, an awful mix of disgust and pure pride clear on his face. "Do you really think that your 'Tiberium' is the only danger in the stars? There are thousands of threats out there that could wipe your planet out in seconds. I am offering you protection and self-rule in return for the most minuscule of concessions Director."
Complete surrender of all technology, halting of all research, instituting a state religion, slaughtering a people to the very last. Minuscule. Sevilla snarled "We…" she bit down the impulsive refusal. This was going to end in war, she could see that now. But she could still buy time to prepare. "I need to discuss this with my staff."
Diomedes stood unflinching "You have three days."
Sevilla's mind raced "Please, general-"
"The Imperium waits for no one Director." Diomedes interrupted "And every day we lavish you with patience is another we are not serving it." He made an incomprehensible symbol with his hands and the transmission died.
Sevilla stood there, pure disbelief rushing through her mind. A week ago they had been conversing as apparently friendly equals. What caused the sudden change in diplomatic posture? A communication from a superior? Internal politicking in the fleet? Or did the Imperial general simply have that much of a grudge against mutants? Sevilla frowned, wiping the bewildered thoughts away. Diomedes seemed unlikely to answer any of her questions, and there was no ambassador or internal ally she could prod for information. She transferred the screen view to Jin "I want our forces mobilised now. Get everything we have online. Any plan you have has my full approval"
"Understood Ma'am." Jin said, a slight twitch in the generals left eye the only thing betraying his internal thoughts as he turned "All right people we're going to Threat level Red-3. I want every ion canon we've got online yesterday! I don't care how old it is." Jin bellowed as his transmission cut off.
Sevilla looked at the screen for a moment, war, war with people she didn't even knew existed a month ago, war against an enemy that could burn the planet down for all she knew.
She turned to the intercom "I need a message sent to The Forgotten directly, now."
*****
"Captain." The Radio officer shouted from his seat. "Multiple local defence batteries have changed their orbits. They're moving to attack range sir."
Captain Frederick Wiltoven Aktos gave the officer a nod before turning to the ships vox "They look to be declining your offer 'General'."
"I'm already preparing my forces for an invasion." Diomedes distorted voice rang through the bridge "Just give me-"
Frederick cut off the voxcall with a sneer "I want all ships on battle stations, turn their satellites into scrap."
*****
Ghost Stalker raised his hand, shielding his eyes from the gale force winds of the Indonesian Red Zone. The sky was a roiling green storm, flashes of lightning almost continuously flashing on the horizon. Even underneath the many ragged layers of clothing he could feel the spikes of airborne Tiberium crystals dig into his flesh. One of the many death sentences waiting for the unmutated in this hellscape. With his other hand he reached towards the reinforced steel door in front of him. Once, then twice he banged on it, loud and heavy enough that the people inside could easily hear even against the torrent. The door opened with a groan, and Stalker Reached for the partially-crystallised hand that reached out from the entrance.
"Sorry to interrupt your recon boss." The gargling voice of Karion said as he closed the door behind him. He was one of Ghost Stalkers first apprentices after the Firestorm crisis: a solid lump of muscle and meat with the brains to use it.
Stalker shrugged "It wasn't important. So what do the leaders want?"
"I don't know, but it seemed important." Karion replied "Everyone is in there, including Trogan and Makavian."
"Brilliant." Stalker said with a sigh, without a doubt the two would be at each other's throats in seconds. "Send fifth squad to take up my patrol once the storms cleared, you know what to do."
Karion gave a mock-salute with a sarcastic smirk "Sir yes Sir!"
The two walked together for a while in the rusted halls of the old bunker, overhead lights occasionally flickering, many electrical systems were completely dead, but the ventilation systems that kept everyone breathing worked as good as new. Occasionally they would pass residents who ran the full gamut of mutation. Some had the occasional scar-patch of exposed Tiberium, others seemed to have it growing out of their limbs in spikes; an unfortunate few hobbled, the Tiberium inside them pushing bone and rendering their limbs unusable. They all smiled when Stalker went by: He was a war hero after all, the last original member of The Forgottens own elite commando squad.
Which is why he was always wanted when The Forgotten leaders made a decision, even if he only stood silent and awaited orders. He was a soldier, not a leader.
Then the two split, Kavion moving to the armoury while Stalker continued to the bunkers primitive command centre. Opening the last door of the hall Stalker squeezed past the web of wires and jury-rigged components that kept the bunkers EVA 1.0 command and control system active.
"Ah, Ghost Stalker." The rasping voice of Nikun said: the octogenarian mutants face giving a warm smile to the commando. His face clearly seen in the well-lit room he was in. "It is good to see you Brother."
"It is good to see you too brother." Stalker said as he sat down.
Nikun nodded, face turning serious "Then everyone is here." The video feed shrank, showing the dozens of other Forgotten leaders across the world. "I speak to you all on such short notice for a situation of great importance has arisen that threatens to bring us back into the Blunts eternal conflicts." Nikun turned his face away from the video, deep in thought, before continuing. "GDI will soon be in conflict with our new visitors. They say these aliens wish to exterminate us." The meeting filled with whispers and murmurs. "In my opinion we have little reason to believe GDI at this time, and I have no knowledge of our new visitors. For those reasons I would continue our isolation, but I have never acted without the approval of my people. So, like when Traitos fell, I ask you to decide our destiny."
Ghost stalker looked at the various leaders, most of their expressions ranging from shocked to suspicious. The two he was most interested in we're Trogan and Makavian: Trogan appeared deep in thought, the former Nod spy's head lowered in contemplation. Makavians expression was one of barely contained disgust and rage, the marauders expression a teeth filled frown as he spoke up "The Exodus has failed!"
Nikun frowned, but stayed silent.
The green-veined marauder got up from his chair, the shouts of his few supporters emboldening the radical "Every decision we have made since Traitos breathed his last has been a mistake. Every year we hide in the farthest reaches of the planet is another the rest of humanity forgets us, forgets who we are." His hand was gripped close to his chest, fervour and sorrow mixed into a righteous duty that few in the forgotten could muster anymore. "This is our chance to remind them, to rebuild the alliance we once had. To ensure that we will never be forgotten." With that he raised his fist, and his supporters cheers seemed to engulf even the gale outside the bunker.
"Tiberium is the most dangerous threat humanity has ever faced, and we must do everything in our power to remove it from our world." Trogan cut through the cheers like a hot knife through butter.
Makavian sighed "Of course you would."
Trogan did not tend to smile, nor emote really. It was hard for anyone to get into the man's mind. But he always seemed to speak with a cold conviction. A self-assurance that would seem welcoming, if one didn't listen to the details too closely. "That was Director Sevilla's own words, Makavian." Trogan said as he raised his head, eyes giving away nothing but conviction equal to his opponent "GDI may treat us with a light hand for now, but they have shown their true colours before. GDI has no place for us in their 'pure' world."
"So say's the Brotherhood spy."
"That's enough Makavian!" Nikun interrupted before the two's argument could reach its inevitable peak "This is a debate on the future of the forgotten, all shall be allowed to say their piece, without accusation."
"Thank you Nikun." Trogan humbly bowed his head, turning back to his speech "GDI would have us join them in this war, use us as cannon fodder just as in the wars before. With our primitive technology that is all we're good for: scavengers thrown at the enemy while the elite and valuable GDI troops get the job done. But if these visitors are as big of a threat as claimed, we will soon have the opportunity to change all of that: to be respected by Nod and GDI as an equal."
Stalker had heard these speeches a dozen times, mostly in personal discussions, the various leaders trying their damndest to get his support in spite of his apolitical leanings. It was like hearing a recording on repeat for too long: dull, irritating, and in the end pointless. But as he turned his focus to Trogans most fervent supporters he noticed a tenseness that was unusual, no cheers, and no calm superiority. Just stress and worry.
"We can use this distraction. Attack GDI, steal their technology and use it to even the scales." Trogan said with as much certainty as any other of his statements.
It didn't take a second for Makavian's supporters to scream the idea down. Makavian himself looked like a bull seeing red, teeth grinding so much that Stalker was surprised they didn't smash apart immediately from the strain. All the while Nikun was changing from bafflement to outright panic as the other leaders stayed silent or even said support to Trogans absurd proposal. The reaction had hit Stalker like a freight train: the forgotten hadn't unified for a decision like this since the Exodus. And even with the fresh mourning of Tratos the idea of open war with GDI was never considered.
"I don't think that's a good idea."
Stalker waited until the room focused on his words before continuing "So we take GDI by surprise after they asked us for help, storm their bases, steal their tech. Kill tens of thousands at the absolute minimum. Then what? Powers with more manpower and technology have fought GDI before, all have failed. Give me a reason why these visitors would weaken GDI enough for this to succeed."
More than a few of the more supportive moderates were now awkwardly glancing away from their screens, others were in serious contemplation of the subject. Trogan had a blank mask of confidence, but said nothing.
The meeting continued for an hour, lesser players showing support or concerns for various plans. But in the end it was decided in favour of keeping the current course, if regretfully. Slowly video feeds blinked out as final words were said, until eventually only Nikun and Stalker remained.
"I must thank you." Nikun said "If it weren't for you I fear we may have made a horrible decision today."
Stalker shrugged "I don't play politics, I go where my people tell me. This was entirely my concern as a soldier and veteran."
"That is truly regretful, you would make a good leader."
Stalker chewed on those last words for a bit, before spitting them out. Maybe it was selfish, but the commando had always preferred dealing with problems head on rather than in a meeting room or a public forum.
"Sir!" Karion shouted as he slamed the door open. "You've got to see this."
Stalker already had his Gauss rifle in hand "What is it?"
"GDI's satellites are falling from the sky!"
Interlude: The War Room
NottheCrabs!
Local fool making foolish things
- Location
- The Bottom of The Ocean
To many of your reading this, be they inquisitor or especially acolyte, this conflict may seem abrupt, even absurd. But such diplomatic blunders are not unheard of in the imperium, so I will not spend time explaining the obvious reasons why they occur. Instead this note is here to bring context to the two Imperial leaders of this first conflict. General Diomedes, and Captain Frederick Wiltoven Aklos. As well as the known military forces and of each side.
General Diomedes has little known history before the Macharian Crusade, all that my acolytes have found is a record from the Administratum is that he was recruited from the Hive world of Gellipharion. The record, much like ones about his later military history, does not give a familial name. Which suggests that he was lower-hive born as per the naming conventions of his home planet. After that things become easier to follow. His regiment was one of the many sent to the crusade at its beginning, fighting in many of the most intense conflicts of the crusade, and with the severe casualties of officers he quickly rose through the ranks to regimental commander. Soon after his promotion to commander he was sent to join Borgan Crassus in the last year of the Adrantis Five campaign. He quickly found himself in command of several depleted regiments during a holding action against a large Adrantis force, allowing Imperial forces to reorganise and stabilise the front. Quickly after the destruction of Adrantis Five Diomedes was promoted again to the rank of general, and given a small army to conquer low-priority planets. Most accounts at this time put his age somewhere in the mid-twenties, an almost disturbing age for a Regimental commander, let alone general.
By comparison Captain Frederick Wiltoven Aklos was an old man on his hundredth year when the crusade began, coming from a long line of Captains who had steered The Emperors Hatred since its construction. His record is as long as it is unremarkable. The Emperors Hatred serving as a merchant escort for most of its life before being sent to the crusade as a troop escort. He was one of many noblemen in the Imperial Navy more focused on lineage and age rather than combat experience. And openly despised Diomedes for that very reason.
In total Diomedes crusade arm consisted of somewhere between twelve to seven million veteran soldiers, of which only a third were true Imperial Guardsmen. The rest of his army consisted of 'Macharian Auxilla': forces from peacefully integrated planets added to less important fronts of the crusade to make up for losses. Many of these Auxilla were equipped with unique equipment. Including vehicles and weapons requiring specialised parts only produced on their homeworlds. Captain Fredericks Escort force consisted entirely of frigates and corvettes whose weaponry was too weak to penetrate standard planetary atmospheres, and so could do little but secure a landing and evacuation route.
By comparison GDI fielded a small force of just under three million experienced soldiers. Alongside some six million veteran reservists to call on in a total war. This may seem a paltry amount to many of you, and indeed it is. For over a decade GDI had been downsizing its military, instead focusing its resources on halting the ecological disasters unfolding on their world, their previous opponents having been completely destroyed or wracked with infighting. Alongside GDI were an unknown number of "Brotherhood" and Mutant forces that would also fight any attempts at reunification. Both of these other groups were still, at this point, large unknowns as neither wanted to be contacted and were from the outside disparate groups of warlords too small to interact with, or, of course, vile mutants. The technological and industrial situation is complex, so I will simply leave a quote from Techpriest Kavions own research notes during the campaign.
"Opponent force wields many technologies implausible to acquire between Explorator fleet X29-Gamma's exploration of the system and current time. Current hypothesis: 'Tiberium' allows technology to progress ahead of norms through vast increases in raw resources and use in unique alloy production. Opponent forces weaponry (EXAMPLES: MASS-PRODUCED RAILGUNS, SONIC WEAPONRY.) reinforces theory. Factoring 'Tiberium' into initial industrial output estimations…
Concerning."
Emperor Protects.
General Diomedes has little known history before the Macharian Crusade, all that my acolytes have found is a record from the Administratum is that he was recruited from the Hive world of Gellipharion. The record, much like ones about his later military history, does not give a familial name. Which suggests that he was lower-hive born as per the naming conventions of his home planet. After that things become easier to follow. His regiment was one of the many sent to the crusade at its beginning, fighting in many of the most intense conflicts of the crusade, and with the severe casualties of officers he quickly rose through the ranks to regimental commander. Soon after his promotion to commander he was sent to join Borgan Crassus in the last year of the Adrantis Five campaign. He quickly found himself in command of several depleted regiments during a holding action against a large Adrantis force, allowing Imperial forces to reorganise and stabilise the front. Quickly after the destruction of Adrantis Five Diomedes was promoted again to the rank of general, and given a small army to conquer low-priority planets. Most accounts at this time put his age somewhere in the mid-twenties, an almost disturbing age for a Regimental commander, let alone general.
By comparison Captain Frederick Wiltoven Aklos was an old man on his hundredth year when the crusade began, coming from a long line of Captains who had steered The Emperors Hatred since its construction. His record is as long as it is unremarkable. The Emperors Hatred serving as a merchant escort for most of its life before being sent to the crusade as a troop escort. He was one of many noblemen in the Imperial Navy more focused on lineage and age rather than combat experience. And openly despised Diomedes for that very reason.
In total Diomedes crusade arm consisted of somewhere between twelve to seven million veteran soldiers, of which only a third were true Imperial Guardsmen. The rest of his army consisted of 'Macharian Auxilla': forces from peacefully integrated planets added to less important fronts of the crusade to make up for losses. Many of these Auxilla were equipped with unique equipment. Including vehicles and weapons requiring specialised parts only produced on their homeworlds. Captain Fredericks Escort force consisted entirely of frigates and corvettes whose weaponry was too weak to penetrate standard planetary atmospheres, and so could do little but secure a landing and evacuation route.
By comparison GDI fielded a small force of just under three million experienced soldiers. Alongside some six million veteran reservists to call on in a total war. This may seem a paltry amount to many of you, and indeed it is. For over a decade GDI had been downsizing its military, instead focusing its resources on halting the ecological disasters unfolding on their world, their previous opponents having been completely destroyed or wracked with infighting. Alongside GDI were an unknown number of "Brotherhood" and Mutant forces that would also fight any attempts at reunification. Both of these other groups were still, at this point, large unknowns as neither wanted to be contacted and were from the outside disparate groups of warlords too small to interact with, or, of course, vile mutants. The technological and industrial situation is complex, so I will simply leave a quote from Techpriest Kavions own research notes during the campaign.
"Opponent force wields many technologies implausible to acquire between Explorator fleet X29-Gamma's exploration of the system and current time. Current hypothesis: 'Tiberium' allows technology to progress ahead of norms through vast increases in raw resources and use in unique alloy production. Opponent forces weaponry (EXAMPLES: MASS-PRODUCED RAILGUNS, SONIC WEAPONRY.) reinforces theory. Factoring 'Tiberium' into initial industrial output estimations…
Concerning."
Emperor Protects.