-Chapter 35-


-Home Land-

-Aiur, High Orbit-


In the far distance a space battle raged on and across the Orbital Rings as the Templar in them continued their desperate battle against the Zerg fleets, currently controlling Aiur's orbital territory. Over Aiur's equator in high orbit the fleet of the Executor exited warp space with the Gantrithor leading the way.

-Gantrithor Bridge-

Tassadar, Executor Artanis and Zeratul watched the holo-screens across the bridge as the battle between the Templar fortifications on the orbital rings and the Zerg fleets continued.

"This is indeed disturbing. But our forces seem to be holding the Swarm off for the moment, giving us time to act." said Tassadar.

Executor Artanis agreed as he watched the battle. As a Templar his blood boiled urging him to order his fleet to join the battle and hopefully tip the scales in the Templars favor if only a little. But his new responsibility as Executor required him to focus on his duties to the whole of Aiur and the empire. Meaning he has his own battles to fight and win.

"Contact the citadel of the Executor. There are people I wish to contact and we must learn the state of the war on the surface."

The bridge crew worked their controls opening a com-line. A holo-screen blinked on showing Fenix of all people. But he was heavily injured and floating in a life support tank.

"En Taro Adun Executor! I have been patiently waiting for your return. And greetings to you Tassadar my old friend. I am overjoyed to see you both return home in this dark hour. The Zerg have doubled their efforts and it seems-"

"Fenix?" Tassadar exclaimed. "Your. Alive! Artanis told me of how you fell in battle at Antioch. How is it that you live?"

Artanis was just as curious about that as Fenix took on a jovial demeanor.

"Ha ha... Well after my unfortunate defeat, my ruined body was recovered by our brethren who had come to reinforce Antioch. I now reside in the cold shell of a Dragoon."

"A Dragoon?"

"A Dragoon?"

Exclaimed Artanis and Tassadar together in a somewhat confused questioning tone.

"Ah Fenix" said Tassadar. "I don't mean to question your decision to be entombed in a Dragoon in light of your wounds but you need only spend a time in a regeneration tank to heal."

"None-sense! I can't remain bedridden while our people and Home-world are in this crisis. 'Tis why I chose to be entombed in a Dragoon. Besides I had the Phase-smiths and healers install a regeneration tank in the Dragoon so I may both fight and heal at the same time. And there is no shame in defeat so long as the spirit is unconquered. But enough of this prattling. There is much I must inform the two of you about. Both of you have been-"

"Branded traitors by both Judicator Aldaris and the Conclave" A female Protoss explained interrupting Fenix. It was a voice Artanis knew all too well. "Fenix your Dragoon shell is too big for the upper floors of the citadel."

On screen Fenix looked at someone as he crossed his arms. "I was waiting for the Executor to return while we waited for our forces to recover after the last battle. I would rather be here then in a hanger with those empty headed A.I. Dragoons or the medical ward."

The screen changed to show a Dragoon with a customized paint job(Green at the joints) A slender but fully armored female Templar walked into view.

"Ah Brother! You become Executor, Leave Aiur for the Zerg homeworld looking for Tassadar and get branded a Traitor, all without informing me. If the situation wasn't so hectic and troubled I would have sworn you were intentionally ignoring me."

Even being a Executor, Artanis sweated a bit under his, slightly younger sisters passive aggressive tone she had to her words.

"Selendis! How did you and Fenix come to meet?"

"I and my battalion were among the reinforcements sent to Antioch, and while it was a chance meeting We came across the battlefield at the Antioch Temple. It was there that I came across Fenix who bore many grave wounds. He's a terrible patient and wouldn't shut up about wanting to get back in the fight. The healers and Phase-smiths worked to save his life and place him in a Dragoon but he kept complaining about wanting to walk on his two feet again so they went through the added trouble of altering the Dragoons frame to house the regeneration tank to Fenix's needs. And repainting it."

"Enough! of such unimportant gossip Selendis." Fenix exclaimed.

"Oh yes. As we have said the Conclave has branded the two of you and everyone in your fleet as traitors. Even now they seek to arrest you and-"

"And execute the Dark Templar Zeratul from what I've heard." Fenix interrupted.

Despite the banter between the Two both Tassadar and Artanis got the message.

Tassadar was sullen. "I never believed that they would go so far. In the face of the Swarms onslaught and total annihilation they still cling to their failing traditions!"

Artanis glanced at Tassadar remembering all the times he had expressed his own thoughts on the matter of traditions and the old ways. Though Tassadar was loyal to the traditions of his people he also knew flexibility and adaptation was necessary for not only a species but a culture as well. And with times quickly changing the Executor understood the value of being able to bend in the wind or breaking to it because one was too rigid.

"Yes," agreed Fenix. "and that makes them all the more dangerous. They hunt you even now, Tassadar. And though I damn my self by doing so, I shall stand by your side till the end."

Selendis crossed her arms. "What he means is that WE'VE talked over the matter with our Templar warriors and come to the collective decision to follow you Executor. Many Templar and other Executors feel as we do that the Conclaves methods of fighting the Zerg are doing little more the stroking their egos and buying time. Though we have fought the Swarm off on many fronts we are doing little but keeping them at bay. There is simply to many of them and with our weapons unable to land a final blow to the Overmind or it's Cerebrates this war will drag on until we inevitably lose. It's only a matter of time. Many are starting to believe those of us that fled in the Arks will soon be the only survivors of our race before to long."

Artanis gestured towards Zeratul and the other Dark Templar who remained silent observers to the conversation.

"Then it is good that we have our lost brethren the Dark Templar by our side. Their Void energies have proven able to permanently slay a Cerebrate."

"En Taro Adun noble Fenix and Selendis. Your aide is greatly appreciated. "said Tassadar. "Executor, it seems that if our home-world is to live, we must protect the Dark Templar from our own brethren. Although it pains me greatly, not even the Conclave shall stand in our way."

Selendis let her arms fall to her sides focusing her gaze on Zeratul in the edge of her holo-screen, and gave him a respectful bow.

"If were going to attack the Conclave then it's best to act prudently and strike them while they still act so high and mighty without giving strategic minded fighting the priority."

Fenix's Dragoon shell raised up making what could be called a proud posture. "It is good then that I prepared a base close to the Conclave then. It lay's to the northwest edge of Kor-shakal across the river."

"We will deal with the Conclave after gathering our forces." said Tassadar.

Though despite his mentors words Artanis could feel a air of deep regret in Tassadars words, and perhaps a seed of hesitation.


-Kor-shakal-

-20 Minutes later-

Tassadar, Artanis and Zeratul's shuttles entered the atmosphere over Kor-shakal. The Dark Templar were closely watching the holo-screens as they took in the first close view of the surface of Aiur in many many long years. Though most Dark Templar like Zeratul were of the younger generations the matriarch of the Nerazim 'Raszagal' whom Zeratul knew and closely worked with was of the first generation and still remembered Aiur from first hand experience. It was from their conversations that Zeratul gained first hand knowledge of his peoples Home land. Still as his eyes lay upon the forests and rivers of this world even Zeratul whom once bore great animosity against the Khalai (Aiur Protoss) for banishing the Nerazim from Aiur, He felt a deep connection to this land.

"Executor" said the Shuttles A.I. "the Vanguard of Aiur forces under Judicator Aldaris command in Kor-shakal are requesting us to land for inspection. They say they will fire upon this craft if we do not comply with their demands."

As if he saw this coming Artanis huffed with satisfaction. "Land here." He ordered the Shuttles A.I.

Moments later the Shuttle touched down in a clearing south of Fenix's base. Artanis, Tassadar several Zealots, Zeratul and three other Dark Templar (one of which was Zerion) exited the Shuttle. There was a moment of silence and calm as the Dark Templar simply appreciated the fact that after so long they were once again on their home world Aiur.

One of the Dark Templar Zerion was less impressed by the forest and soil then a familiar face he had not seen in several centuries. He walked towards the Executor and the two faced each other.

"It has been a long time old friend." said Zerion.

"Indeed." stated Artanis. "I meant to greet you earlier but circumstances being as they were did not allow it. We at least have some time here and now to talk."

Zerion nodded and reached out his hand. "Hopefully we both have time later for a long deserved talk. I would love to hear how you became a Executor Artanis. Or should I say Roken."

Artanis reached out, and the two shook hands like old comrades. "I have not used that name in a long time. I'll explain why it was changed after the Conclave and Zerg are dealt with."

"Indeed. For it seems we are out of time." said Zerion as the noise of Dragoons hover engines thrummed louder as they approached.

Tassadar turned to the Dark Templar.

"Zeratul you and your people should not stain your blades with the blood of fellow Protoss. As they are meant for the Zerg. We will buy you time to reach Fenix's base."

Zeratul turned to Tassadar. "Thank you Tassadar, but we shall join you in this endeavor. Though there was once a time I would have taken great joy in having the opportunity to battle the Conclave. Now I only do so for the future of our people and to fight against the Conclaves ignorance."

Tassadar feeling greatly honored stood straighter as if trying to live up to the expectations of others even though he no longer bares the rank of Executor.

"Very well then Dark one. I will leave the Conclave to your graces care as I know you work best in the shadows."

Without uttering another word Zeratul, Zerion and the other Dark Templar cloaked and departed. Seconds later multiple squads of Dragoons and Zealots baring red markings entered the clearing. One of the Zealots held up a small holo-projector. It activated showing Aldaris.

Executor, you and the Traitor Tassadar are to cease your resistance and surrender yourselves to the judgment of the Conclave. We will take the outlaw, Zeratul, into custody and deal with him and his people as it is written by the Khala's law.

Tassadar took two steps forwards pointing at Aldaris image considering it a act of cowardice to not be here himself.

"Flee back to your masters Aldaris, and huddle with them in darkness! For your actions shall set us all unto the Zerg!"

While Aldaris and his Zealots and were taken aback by that show of direct resistance Zeratul and the other Dark Templar attacked slicing several Dragoons to pieces before anyone knew was was happening. The enemy Zealots turned around to the sight of their Dragoons being bisected by invisible attackers and dropping their guards. Artanis ignited his blades and charged the distracted Zealots quickly slaying three before the forth countered and blocked his strike. Tassadar joined in the battle slaying the distracted Zealot. A group of Dragoons fired wildly trying to hit the invisible attackers but striking the Shuttle instead. A moment later a series of warp-blades slashed them to pieces and the resulting explosions rocked the trees. Moments later Zerion and the rest of the Dark Templar decloaked.

Tassadar, Artanis, Zeratul, Zerion and the other Dark Templar all stood before the bodies of the slain Protoss. Tassadar could only look downcast at the bodies of his fallen brethren.

"Come" spoke Artanis. "We must get to Fenix's base so that we can counter attack."

"Yes." replied Tassadar. "Let us go."

The Executor and his allies marched several miles to the base as the Shuttle was a casualty of the battle.


-Conclave Meeting Chamber-

Conclave member (D'hax) slammed his fist on the armrest of his stone chair embedded with countless gems.

"It was a mistake to let Artanis become a Executor!"

Conclave Member (Xegin) held his chin-plate thing? contemplating. "Perhaps we shouldn't have showed mercy to those survivors from that far flung colony and just made them disappear."

Another Conclave member (Nal) huffed expressing his irritation.

"Regardless Artanis, Tassadar and the exile Zeratul will all be eliminated for their insolence, to our authority. Then we'll cleanse Aiur of the accursed Swarm with the Purifiers might."

Conclave member D'hax waved his hand and a holo-screen appeared showing Aldaris whom bowed, seeing who was contacting him.

"Aldaris. Don't hold back with these traitors. Put them all to the fire." said Conclave member D'hax.

"I will deploy the Khalen'ri (Conclave guard) and break through their defensive lines. I may have to pull a few platoons from the reserve forces across the empire but the traitors will fall."

Conclave member Xegin stood straighter looking directly into Aldaris eyes." See that they do. As is you duty as a Judicator."

The holo-image of Aldaris blinked off as more members of the Conclave entered the room.

Nal glanced about reading the expressions on every-ones faces as much as feeling their apprehension with the betrayal of both Tassadar and Artanis.

"Now then shall we begin our strategy for awakening the Purifiers." Nal said.


-Fenix's base-

Selendis and Fenix approached Artanis and his group as they neared the Nexus.

"I am glad you are well Executor." spoke Fenix as he tromped along in his bulky form.

"You should have used a gateway." chastised Selendis.

"I know. But moving on we must prepare a proper counter attack. If we bring the fleet in that will simply mean Aldaris and the Conclave will match us pulling Templar from the front lines not only here but across the empire and overwhelm us. The best chance we have is to end this battle quickly as possible."

Tassadar pointed to the Nexus. "We can talk in the Nexus. Fenix if you could protect our position from incursion."

"At once old friend."

Tassadar gave a chuckle. "Hm. If this was but a few months ago you would have called me Executor."

Fenix chuckled in nostalgia. "Ha ha. Quit true old friend. Times change and we must change with them. 'Tis why we're here rebelling against the Conclave is it not."

Fenix departed to lead the defense while Tassadar, Artanis, Zeratul, and Selendis meet in the Nexus control room.

Artanis quickly took command ordering the warping in of multiple Forges and Pylons from his fleet in orbit. Selendis eyed him.

"And what are you plotting?"

Artanis activated a virtual simulation hologram showing a Pylon a Photon cannon and a Shuttle.

"The recently developed Shield Reavers which Aldaris himself gave us on Char has given me a spark of inspiration and presented us with a opportunity to win with a small force. We will break through the Conclaves defenses and take Kor-shakal in one attack. But our phase-smiths will need time to combine the components."

Tassadar raised a eyebrow at the images as Artanis started rearranging their structures and internal components. "Combine Pylons, Photon cannons and Shuttles?"

Artanis played with the virtual images rearranging and combining them in different combinations and when he was finished he called a Phase-smith from the Nexus lower manufacturing chambers.

"By Adun what is this?!" a certain Phase-smith exclaimed looking at Artanis creation.

The holo image was of a Pylon with two side mounted wings of overlapping crescent shaped hull plating, two Photon cannons stacked atop each other in front, and the engines of a Shuttle in back. It was by Phase-smiths standers a cobbled together assortment of parts that still by the simulation data somehow worked, if not very efficiently.

"And you want us to build this?!" the phase-smith exclaimed giving the Executor a hard stare.

"Yes. The simulation says it will work." said Artanis with some confidence.

The phase-smith looked back at the simulated image giving it a closer look and started mumbling details about its systems and structure along with other technobabble that was hard to follow.

"In short... it may work." the Phase-smith ended.

"Then please begin immediately." said Artanis.

"We can't rely on cobbled together tech brother." said Selendis with some worry.

Tassadar faced Selendis. "I know it's unorthodox. But having an ace up our sleeve never hurts."

Selendis cocked her head to one-side. "Is that a Terran saying?"

"In fact a Terran named Raynor aided us for a time on Char." explained Tassadar. "We talked many times about each others cultures and their differences among others subjects."

"Next is the strategic part of my plane." Artanis stated. "I predict Aldaris will send the Khalen'ri to attack us directly. They have long been the Conclaves guards and blades, and given the situation they will no doubt be involved."

"I agree." said Selendis.

"They are quite skilled and unlikely to fall for any tricks." stated Tassadar.

Artanis and Tassadar redirected their focus to commanding the counter attacks against the Conclave forces and expanding their territory. Artanis looked on his command stations holo-screen seeing the first force sent to attack them was a mix of Reavers, Shield Reavers and many Zealots. The Elevated bases Photon cannons switched to beam mode focusing their fire on the shield Reavers barriers protecting rest of the Conclave forces. Even with eight Photon cannons focusing on them the shields held, only shattering at the moment both sides clashed at the bases edge. But with his keen eyes Tassadar saw that the Dark Templar had starting cutting through the attacking forces rearguards making their way to the Reavers and Shield Reavers. Once the Reaver and Shield Reavers were dealt with the Dark Templar disappeared again. Fenix lead the counter charge breaking the Khalen'ri frontline and cutting them all down. But not long after a second attack force consisting of Scouts and Arbiters were detected on approach from the northeast.

Artanis sent the bulk of his Dragoons to their designated attack spot meeting them just in time. Beams cut into the Shuttles and Arbiters shields blasting each craft out of the air in but a few seconds of focused bombardment. But as He feared the Arbiters using their recall ability warped in several wings of Scouts. The new enemy reinforcements unloaded their missiles onto Artanis base, heavily damaging nearly every buildings shields. The Scouts turned coming around for another pass. But they were blind sided by a Group of Arbiters from Artanis fleet pulling the same trick and warping in several dozen Scouts of their own. The air battle granted Artanis the time he needed to use his Probes to warp in more Pylons and Photon cannons along with several Tachyon spires. Though they were energy intensive they were well worth it. Once activated the Tachyon spires unleashed beams of utter annihilation on the enemy. Each shot destroying a enemy Scout or Arbiter along with the barrage of photonic beams the Photon cannons provided, the majority of the Conclaves air forces were demolished. With the last of the enemy air forces retreating Artanis pulled his forces back and reorganized them repairing what could be repaired and replacing what needed to be replaced.

With both forces bloodied the two sides took a moment to prepare for the next attack. But wanting to speed up his ability to attack faster into play Artanis had all his wounded Templar returned to the fleet in orbit and fresh troops rotated in and did this after every battle making sure all his forces were in top shape to fight. Warping in seven Gateways, four Stargates and twenty Pylons from a Forge world whose allegiance to the Conclave and their ways of leading was in heavy doubt. But in the midst of the new structures the Phase-smiths worked hard and with little breaks as they constructed a basic working model of the new creation the Executor brainstormed on a spur of the moment. The prototype was completed in record time and was... mostly functional.

"The Blaster Pylon is completed Executor!" said a excited phase-smith on the holo-screen.

"Blaster Pylon?" questioned Artanis. "You sound more excited than before." said Artanis.

"It's only a place holder name until I come up with a proper one later. It was a interesting and challenging project. But these things require time to be properly implemented. What I and my team put together is not a new unit, just a cobbled together pieces that work together. Though it does heavily take from the still experimental Shield Reaver Only with a Pylon as a base."

"Thank you Kar,tes. I will deploy the Blaster Pylon soon and see how it works."

"If it breaks, or even if it doesn't, i'll make sure the next one is better." said Kar,tes

Artanis wasted no time deploying the new Blaster Pylon. Essentially a mobile Pylon equipped with shield emitters, two Photon cannons on the front and a Shuttles engines in the rear. It won't last in a prolonged fight which was why Artanis had a few of his Arbiters ready to warp it to them at a moments notice. Tassadar approached Artanis as the Executor gathered his forces for a full scale attack on the southern base on this side of the River which ran along the edge of Khor'shakal.

"The attack is ready then?" asked Tassadar.

"Yes and with the Blaster Pylon bolstering our forces the attack should be able to punch through their defenses." said Artanis.

Artanis sent out a Observer and a few wings of Scout's to clear the way for the main attack force to the southern Conclave base on the same side of the river. The cloaked Observer sped over the forests south of Fenix's base, while the Scouts cruised a mile higher and behind It. As the Observer neared the enemy base it picked up a enemy Arbiter, cloaking two Observers and Scouts. The Enemy Scouts appeared, opening fire on the Observer destroying it. Counter attacking the Executors Scouts returned fire focusing on the Arbiter first and destroying it and making the Observer and Scouts reappear. The Executors Scouts dived firing their photon blasters at the enemy Scouts.

In the skyborn exchange of fire the enemy Observer was destroyed while the enemy Scouts lost two thirds of their forces. Artanis knowing this may happen had sent a second Observer behind his Scouts at a lower altitude. The replacement Observer sped forwards as soon as the first was destroyed. It quickly spotted the two enemy Observers, and the Executors Scouts fired on them. Not a moment later several beams shot skywards blowing three of the Executors Scouts out of the air. The remaining Scouts took evasive action counter attacking several Conclave Dragoons and Reavers on the ground.

But as their missiles flew at their targets the Reaver revealed to be a Shield Reaver generated a shield. The missiles detonated harmlessly against the energy barrier while the Dragoons fired through the shield damaging two Scouts and destroying a third. Artanis was surprised at that and recalled his remaining scout force back to base.

"That is surprising?" said Artanis contemplating the new information.

"I have heard of this." said Selendis watching over the com-network. "It seems they have developed a means of firing energy weapons through our own energy barriers while their still fully active."

Tassadar pondered this technological development.

"Normally weapons fire can only be projected through holes intentionally opened in the plasma barrier. But to project a attack through a barrier fully materialized, I wonder for how long the Conclaves has had this in development?"

Artanis didn't waste anytime pondering such things and sent the Dark Templar to take out the new type of Shield Reaver. Warping(and or constructing) several more Observers (at the base) and Scouts in they Artanis sent them with the survivors of the first scouting mission to secure the path of attack to the southern enemy base. But Tassadar interrupted.

"Executor before you attack may I suggest a slight detour, If I remember correctly there is a underground supply depo along the river directly east of our base."

"Tassadar how do you know of such a place?" Artanis asked.

"A valid question. The Khalai empire has lasted for many a age, and so has the time we have had to mine resources through the galaxy. Across many Protoss worlds including Auir a great many secret or widely known resource facilities large and small were constructed incase they were ever needed for whatever reason. It was this vary same for sight for the future that the great Ark-ships were constructed. Although Their purpose was more widely known and caused by the historic loss of several Motherships in a accident."

Artanis mused at his teachers knowledge. "I was not aware. And as far as Mother-ships go I am both grateful and wanting of them at the moment. But the majority of them are currently stuck embattled protecting the most important worlds across the empire."

"Yes, They would easily turn the tide in this battle. "Tassadar agreed. "But they would also be a great threat if the Conclave were able to recall one to their aide."

"True," said Artanis as he redirected his second scout force to the new location by the river.

The second scout force quickly secured the area finding the opening to the underground storage facility. A group of Shuttles and a escort for them were sent allowing the second scout force to continue their mission. The Observers and Scouts resumed their mission. One of the Observers quickly spun around sensing a energy surge coming from across the river near the city. It zoomed in observing a Carrier exiting a enemy Stargate.

"Fall back!" Exclaimed Artanis to the second scout force.

It was inevitable that the Conclave or Aldaris would call in capital ships to turn the battle in their favor. The massive vessel cruised over the city and crossed the river towards the Executors bases position. The Executor could see its weapons charge up even as its shields flared entering a fully protected and offensive state. Two dozen potonic beams streaked through the sky striking various units and buildings in Fenix's base.

"Selendis now!" exclaimed Artanis.

While Artanis commanded his forces, Fenix handled the primary defense and Tassadar helped with commanding the base. Selendis had been building on a counter force to deal with just this situation.

"Consider this my repaying you for that one time back on Earth" Selendis said over the com's.

A new force of Arbiters appeared from behind Fenix's base instantly recalling over a hundred Scouts and more Arbiters. The new force of Scouts unloaded every missile they had into the Carrier combining their fire with the ground defenses, and together quickly depleting its shields in less than a minute of constant fire. Several Scouts were shot down by the Carriers constant weapons barrage but the once the Carriers shields were down the Arbiters were able to move in and use their Stasis ability on the Carrier freezing it in place for the moment. No sooner than it had been neutralized than a second carrier and four dozen Arbiter's appeared over the city.

Artanis stared at the holo-screen showing the fleet approaching from the east.

"Aldaris in a cunning one. Using one Carrier to lure out our secret force. But no matter, Tassadar is the second base established yet?" the Executor asked seeing as it was directly in the path of the enemy fleet.

Tassadar sent out a stream of orders as his hands moved across the holo-controls moving units and warping more buildings.

"The defenes's will be operational shortly. They only need another few minutes. Perhaps now is the time to see how that Blaster Pylon fares?"

Artanis turned back to his own command screen.

"True."

The Executor selected the two functional Blaster Pylons that the phase-smiths had created. The second looking slightly less cobbled together then the first. Artanis sent them ahead of Selendis and her forces.

"I pray for the future of our people that I am not merely a fool." Artanis remarked on his creation making a personal prayer regarding his own judgment.

Artanis directly controlling the two Blaster Pylons had them unfold and extended their crescent wings and charge up their weapons. The Executor sighted in on several of the enemy Arbiters as they and the Carrier crossed the river and pressing the fire button. The two Blaster Pylons fired twin supercharged Photon cannon beams at the cluster of Arbiters. Their shields flared for a split second before exploding, leaving nothing but flying debris and smoke clouds behind. For a moment the Executor was surprised at the firepower the Blaster Pylons had considering their size. The Arbiters shields didn't offer any protection what-so-ever. The Carrier opened fire striking the two Blaster Pylons shields but did little damage to them with its Photon cannons even in beam mode.

Artanis checked the Blaster Pylons position seeing that they were just in range of the new eastern expansion base allowing their shields to be reinforced by the Pylon network there. The Carrier continued firing at the two Blaster Pylons while Artanis continued firing at the Arbiters, blasting them out of the sky with every shot. They quickly wised up and scattered but still were shot down with every blast. The enemy Arbiters reached weapons range placing the two Blaster Pylons in stasis turning them inert and useless. Selendis and her forces entered range and opened fire on the Arbiters downing the ones that had placed the Blaster Pylons in stasis freeing them. Now free again the two Experimental units opened fire again combining their firepower with Selendis forces. Together they rapidly reduced the number of Arbiters around the Carrier. But not before the rest activated their recall ability, warping in a large formation of Scouts and two more Carriers. All at once the three Carriers launched every Interceptor and Scout thay had.

The aerial battle was intense and despite their best efforts Selendis and her force was forced to retreat or suffer needless losses. Artanis was worried for his sister and her forces but knew how to take out the new Carriers and their escorts as he had anticipated this possibility.

"Tassadar?" the Executor asked.

"It is completed" Tassadar replied.

Checking the Blaster Pylons condition and seeing it was still in the green despite the heavy bombardment they were taking, the Executor ordered them to retreat to the expansion base where four Tachyon spires had just been completed along with twenty Pylons to power them. Unlike Photon cannons, Tachyon spires have a greater upper limit to their power output when boosted by Pylons and their network. This allows them to have a extremely high damage output considering their size. However even a Carrier is limited in its capacity to power them, and a land based network of many Pylons in a local network can easily boost their output by many times.

Several Arbiters floating over the expansion base deactivated their cloaking fields exposing the network of Pylons and the four Tachyon spires below them. The Arbiters quickly fled the area as the Tachyon spiers charged up. The Carrier's spotted the Tachyon spires quickly opening fire on them. But the two Blaster Pylons expanded their shields to their maximum width blocked the barrage of energy attacks but we're barely holding from the strain. Ten seconds later they moved farther apart and dropping their shields in the gap between each other allowing the Tachyon spiers to fire through the gap. Their beams to struck one of the Carriers and the ships shields strained under the force of the attack, turning red in color before collapsing. The beams cut through the Carriers exposed hull gutting the ship end to end. The ship dropped out of the air exploding on impact with the ground.

With one of the three Carriers gone the surviving two Carriers and their escorts focused all their weapons on the Tachyon spires. But again the two Blaster Pylons blocked their attacks only opening a gap in their weakening shields when the Tachyon spiers were ready to fire. The Tachyon spiers charged up and fired at Carrier number two. Again one of the Carriers was struck and again it fell leaving its wreck behind. With two Carriers down the third Carrier became desperate. Its captain activating his ships purifier beam. There was not much difference between a Purifier and the Tachyon spire in general with the exception of their range and scale of destructive might. The Tachyon spire was meant to focus all its power on a single target while the Purifier beam can glass whole continents when set to its widest setting or pierce through them in its narrow setting.

The Carrier fired. It's purifier beam splashing against the Blaster Pylons shields for a moment before overwhelming them. The two prototype Blaster Pylons vaporised as the beam struk the base causing the shields of to flare in protest of the attack. Mere moments later Selendis forces accelerated towards the Carrier firing a volley of anti-matter missiles striking shields. With considerable amounts of the ships power transferred to the Purifier cannon the shields were weakened. Allowing the last of the missile barrage to break through and strike the Purifier cannon in the forward nose of the Carrier. A chain of internal explosions rocked the ship as Selendis forces banked hard leaving the area. The ship didn't self explode due to safety systems but its main weapon was no longer a issue. The Tachyon spires charged up for another attack but Artanis was aghast as the Carrier accelerated towards the Expansion base and the Tachyon spires.

Tassadar ordered the expansion base to evacuate as the Carrier flew towards it and shortly after crashed into the base. As the Ships hull grinded against the ground smashing all the structures and ripping its own hull apart. The three Carriers and most of their escorts were eliminated but at the cost of many Templar lives. Artanis watched as Tassadar silently grieved for the dead. This battle was starting to turn grim for both sides. Focusing his mind and purpose Artanis turned to other matters. He regretted losing the two Blaster Pylon prototypes but seeing how effective they were He contacted their creator opening a holo-com.

"Kar'tes" said Artanis. The Blaster Pylons are effective, though the two were destroyed in battle."

"Not a issue Executor." Kar'tes replied. "I've already constructed two more with more on the way. And i've altered their design a but and improved on it a little. If you really want me to mass produce them they will need to be completely redesigned."

"Understood, I hope you will do so after this battle is finished."

The Phase-smith beamed with pride. "With pleasure Executor. It will be a good learning experience for my protege."

Refocusing on his attack on the remaining enemy Carrier in stasis the Executor sent his second scout force to the crafts rear. Once the stasis field dropped they unloaded everything they had into its engines while the Tachyon spier's fired on its front dropping its shields. Both the ships shields and engines were quickly destroyed causing the ship to crash intact for the most part. The Executors forces secured the ship fighting through its defense forces until taking the bridge.

With all distractions gone Artanis focused on gathering and preparing a force to attack and take the southern base while Tassadar did what he could to re-establish the expansion base by the river. The underground material complex was still intact and could be used still despite having a Carrier on top of it.

"Fenix we will shift into a full attack posture and I would like you to lead the attack on the southern enemy base while Zeratul and his Dark Templar infiltrat after the enemy Observers are dealt with."

"I will gladly lead the charge Executor." replied Fenix.

"My blade will never be seen Executor." replied Zeratul.

The Dark Templar departed ten minutes before the main attack force moved out. Knowing the possibility of Observers detecting them Artanis sent Selendis in to deal with them. In disciplined formations and extreme low altitude the Scouts and Arbiters under Selendis command flew southwards over the forests on their way to the enemy base. Their crafts bellies skimmed the treetops as the Arbiters kept them under cloak so as to keep the size and disposition of their forces from their enemies gaze and they flew so low to avoid direct fire from the enemies Photon and Tachyon spier defenses. The Observers acompanying them were at the front of the pack so they could identify enemy Observers as quickly as possible.

Selendis checked her Scouts scanners as they neared the Base seeing Her Observers sensors pick up a dozen enemy Observers just as the enemy defenses spotted the Arbiters who could not cloak themselves dew to how their cloaking systems worked.

"Destroy the Observers!" Selendis commanded.

Mere seconds later a force of fifty Scouts and twelve Observers decloaked. The Scouts launched swarms of missiles quickly destroying all the enemy Observers in one salvo while the Arbiters at their maximum range projected Stasis fields on all the enemy Tachyon spiers as the Photon cannons depleted their shields. Once their two objectives were met Selendis and her air force accelerated at full speed leaving the air space.

While the Templar dealt with the pesky Observers and Tachyon spiers Zeratul and his Dark Templar blinked passed the walls of the base and infiltrated it. In the far distance the roaring sound of Fenix's forces charging the main gates echoed in the distance as both sides opened fire at the other and war cry's were shouted. Zeratul and the other Dark Templar passed through the breach assassinating any enemy they encountered along their way. Zeratul stopped decloaking by a Star-Gate floating above.

"Zerion, you take a team and destroy the Pylons and Photon cannons in the base while I take the others and destroy the Gateways and Stargates. Once our tasks are completed we will meet up at the Nexus and deal with the enemy leader."

"Understood." replied Zerion.

The two teams cloaked again and split up dividing their forces. As instructed Zerion and his four other comrades darted around the base blinking up to the floating crystals and systematically destroyed them reducing the effectiveness of the bases defenses. It also showed chaos around the base as enemy Templar ran around trying to find the saboteurs, but without any Observers they could not see the Dark Templar.

"Blast it all where are they!" shouted a very frustrated Khalen'ri guarding a Pylon.

Zerion was no fool and knew that to hesitate on the battlefield was folly. He plunged his warpblade into the chest of the Zealot instantly killing him. Several more rounded the corner of the Pylon sensing their comrades death. Zerion blinked behind them repeating what he had done to the first. They fell dead with a single smoking hole in their chests. Zerion had found out that Protoss society was not the perfect utopia some would delude themselves into thinking it was. Nore was it unified. The existence of the Tal-darim and Nerazim were clear proof of that. And Protoss were not incorruptible as Zerions former comrade Kai'nok and his betrayal, maiming and near murder of Zerion long ago could attest to. Zerion had learned much since losing his Nerve cords and with them his connection to the Khala. But in its place he was connected to the Void which even for Nerazim is difficult to master, for it demands a iron will and implacable resolve to reveal its power and secrets. Luckily Zerion was gifted with both and found the Void opened itself to him as if it was both his destiny and birthright. Though Zerion him self would never think such given his modesty.

Zerion moved through the base cutting down both enemy Templar and Pylons, giving no mercy for he knew he would be shown none. He and the four other dark Templar in his team meet up at the destroyed remains of a Stargate once their work was done.

"Zerion I believe the Pylons are all gone. Let us meet with the Dark Prelate now." said the Dark Templar.

Zerion nodded. "Yes let us go."

Zerion and his team sprinted to the Nexus seeing the guards already dead at the doors which had been slashed into pieces. Slowly and cautiously moving inside Zerion found Zeratul and the others waiting for him.

"Zerion, you've arrived." said Zeratul.

"Let us proceed." said Zerion.

The Dark Templar continued deeper into the Nexus. Four Zealots rounded the corner. Two of the Dark Templar blinked behind them slaying both in a single stroke with each of their blades. Several rooms later the Dark ones encountered a Observer floating over the hallway entrance into the command chamber.

"It seems they expect us." said Zeratul.

"Then let us give them what they expect. But not in the way they expect it." said Zerion.

Zeratul nodded and Zerion split his team from Zeratuls. Going down a adjacent passage to the command chamber while Zeratul and the other Dark Templar rounded the corner and were quickly spotted by the Observer. It beeped in alarm and the door opened. Twenty Zealots charged out of the command room.

"Die Dark Templar!" one of the Zealots shouted as he and the other Zealots formed psi-spears.

The Zealots threw their psionic spears at the Dark Templar only for them to blink away. The spears detonated against the wall leaving a large series of holes behind.

-Moments before with Zerion-

Zerion's team split from Zeratul's, going around to a side chamber directly beside the Command room. Then using blink they shifted into the Void dimension only for the briefest of moment's reappearing in the command room. Inside was a Observer and two High Templar monitoring the battle with Fenix's forces who seemed to be winning for the moment as they clashed with the Conclaves forces. Zerion and his team slayed several of the Zealots quickly drawing the attention of the rest and the two High Templar.

"The Dark ones are here!" shouted one of the High Templar.

The Zealots fell quickly to the Dark Templar forcing the two High Templar into a mental corner.

"Quickly before they strike!" said the other High Templar.

Before Zerion and his team could act the Two High Templar merged resulting in a explosion of psionic force. The Dark Templar fully activated their plasma shields with standing the blast wave. But as they looked where the two High Templar used to be, the spot was now occupied by a single ten foot tall Archon floating in place with out legs. It's psionic might clear for all to see.

"Traitors! Die!" the ball of psionic might roared as it formed a large energy orb and projected it at its enemies.

Without thinking Zerion and his team blinked away as the orb flew at them and slammed into the wall detonating and obliterating a good chunk of it opening a hole to the adjacent room. The Dark Templar repeatedly blinked around the chamber keeping the Archons attention divided between them.

"A paltry effort!" exclaimed the Archon as it created a plasma shield around itself and the Observer increasing it's size in a attempt to crush the Dark Templar against the chambers wall. But Zerion and the others simply blinked through the expanding barrier like the wall just before.

"A decent effort but not good enough!" shouted one of the Dark Templar as they ran towards the Archon.

The Archon simply roared as it produced a psionic shockwave. Acting quickly the Dark Templar blinked again. Zerion reappeared unharmed but felt a mental sting as one of his comrades miss timed their blink by a fraction of a second and died from the blast wave.

"Truly a force to be reckoned with." Zerion admitted standing with his surviving comrades. "But that only means your defeat will feel all the more meaningful Archon."

Zerion and the others split up charging at the Archon from four different directions. The living storm of psionic power collapsed the shield and raised its arms shooting energy blasts at the Dark Templar. Instead of blinking the Dark Templar cut through the energy orbs with their Warp blades momentarily shocking the Archon, but it was not so impressed to lose focus through its rage and so it created another psionic shockwave. But before it could launch the attack Zerion blinked next to the Archon and cut off one of its arms before blinking away again. The Archon roared in pain and rage as the prepared shockwave attack backfired in his face demolishing a wall and leaving the Archon stunned for a few moments. This was all the time the Dark Templar needed to surround It and impale it all at once. A few deft swings of their Warp blades was all it took to calm the melstrom of psionic power. The Archons power and form dissipated as its material form holding its energies together was no more. With a echoing wail of regret the Archon was no more.

Zerion and the surviving members of his team stared where the Archon had vanished before looking over at the crushed remains of their fallen comrade. A moment later Zeratul and his team appeared through the door damaged in the battle. The Dark Prelate instantly knew what had happened as he recognised the forlorn expressions on his kins faces.

"One of us had fallen." Zeratul stated matter factly.

Zerion turned to him. "Yes. Sa,del fell in battle."

Zeratul glanced at the remains giving a silent prayer and then turned to Zerion.

"Now that the blood of one of our own has been spilled on the home world of our ancestors do you think our alliance with Tassadar and Artanis is folly?"

Zeratul's question was meant for all of them, and all of them took their time thinking on the mater. Zerion was the first to reply.

"The blood of our ancestors was spilled on Aiur long ago and on many worlds since." Zerion stopped a moment looking Zeratul directly in his eyes. "But we will never regret our choices for it was us Nerazim who chose the path of independence from the light of the Khala. And so we have no right to regret the paths we ourselves have chosen. I do not believe Sa'del would have regretted dying to a Archon on this land. Only that in his death he did not land a blow against the opponent."

Zeratul glanced around the faces of the other Dark Templar as if reading their responses.

"Do not expect me to judge your opinion on the matter. That is for you to do yourselves. Come we must continue our task."

Departing the chamber Zerion gave one last glance at the body of his lost comrade. Outside Fenix's forces had fought their way into the base and were now reinforced by Selendis aerial forces. Even when it was clear that they were losing the fight the Conclaves forces continued fighting to the last. After a half hour of fighting the whole base was or rather what was left of it was finally under the Executors control.

"If it wasn't for the Dark Templar creating chaos, debilitating the defenses and eliminating the enemies chain of command Fenix and Selendis would have lost more of their warriors in the battle. said Tassadar.

Artanis noted Tassadar's tone as he spoke of the last battle.

"True. It is hard fighting our own. Not only on a tactical level but personally as well. They fight valiantly for what they believe in as much as we do. One must respect them despite our differences of opinion."

Artanis hoped his words had helped Tassadar, who looked upon the bodies on his fellow Protoss laying across the battlefield on the holo-screen.


-Judicator Base, NorthEast of Kor'shakal -

Aldaris groaned as he got the report of the fall of the western base across the river.

"Damn the both of you Artanis and Tassadar. You may think you to be on the victor for now but all has been in preparation for this." Aldaris thinking of the long game had always intended to win by bleeding the traitors dry slowly.

On the holo-screen the Judicator saw various points of interest throughout Kor-shakal. Each location was a heavily guarded outpost with at least four Pylons, four Photon cannons, four Dragoons and ten Zealots. Each of these guarded points was a small fortress and they were evenly spread throughout the city. Aldaris scrutinized his defenses in detail.

"If Tassadar and his followers wise to take this city then I will simply make sure it costs them much for every building and block they take."


-The Executors Base Northwest of Kor'shakal-

A hour after Fenix, Selendis, Zeratul and his Dark Templar had taken the base Artanis noted his forces now five times what he started with including two expansion bases. One (rebuilt) over the old supply depo to the east next to the river. And the former Conclave base to the south, also by the river. Artanis looked intently at the holo-map scrutinising his position against the Conclaves. The river separated the two sides and the four bridges were heavily guarded. The Executor had considered sending the Dark Templar in to clear out one or more of the bridges defenses but then worried that in a desperate attempt to kill the Dark Templar Aldaris or the Conclave would order the whole area bombarded from orbit or from the air by Scouts. The possibility of losing Zeratul in such a situation was not worth the risk.

It would prove a better strategic choice to send the Dark Templar to assassinate the Conclave then use them any further in battle. But then the problem was how to move his forces across the river. Kor-shakal had a tremendously well built anti-air defense network so a air based attack would be difficult. Leaving a ground only force to fight alone.

"Problems brother?" Selendis said as she approached the Executor at his command station.

"I would prefer it if you used by title Executor."

Selendis scoffed regarding the map of Kor-shakal. "Very well then Executor. How goes the planning of this rebellion's siege of the city then?"

"I'm feeling a sense of deja'vu." stated Artanis "This situation is similar to when I cleared the Scion province of Zerg. In that battle the Zerg had a strong anti-air defenses in the city they had infested. Forcing me to sacrifice many brave Templar to defeat them."

Selendis closed her eyes a moment and nodded in honor of the fallen. "I see so this situation is much the same. Except your fighting your fellow Protoss here. How did you defeat the Zerg back then?"

Artanis stood silent a moment as he recalled the details.

"I used my Reaver's as a strong front spear head to push into the city and secure a outpost in the city. My forces used the outpost to slowly clear the city of all anti-air defenses. Once the way was clear I sent in a large force of Scouts to destroy the Hive cluster in a single strike. But the Zerg received a massive force of reinforcements just before the attack. They spread throughout the city and converged on the outpost killing the majority of the Templar I sent there. But the air forces attack on the Hive clusters was a success in the end."

Selendis stared unblinkingly at her brother.

"You greatly regret losing that many Templar lives for only one province. But it is in the past now. Sulking and brooding over it will help no one. Now refocusing on the present."

Selendis looked the holo-map over. "If you use the same strategy as last time you will fail. Aldaris and his side will use Arbiters to quickly recall their forces from one part of the city to another countering any invasion we launch."

Artanis suddenly got a distracting thought and glanced over at Tassadar at his command station. "I feel as though this situation is harder on Tassadar them myself."

Selendis replied while keeping her eyes on the map.

"He'll be fine. Despite his old age and experience he greatly cares for his people. But that's why he'll stand strong and push forwards. Other wise all this death will have been for nothing."

Artanis turned his gaze back to the map. "Perhaps you're right."

Selendis looked up to the Executor eyes wide in realization. "I got it!"

"What's your idea then?" he asked.

"What if we detach a recall device from a few dozen of our Arbiters and install it into a Observer. We could send it into the city and instantly warp in half our army right on top of the enemy!"

Then Selendis felt down cast realizing the difficulties of such a plan.

"Oh but... then how do we get them into the city without being shot down? They have so many Observers and other defenses that can detect them."

Artanis ran his siblings tactic through several scenarios in his head. It was a good plan that allowed them to get the drop on the enemy and bypass their defenses for the most part.

"It's a good plan, we just have to deal with the issue of the enemy detection?"

"What if we use the Blaster Pylons?" spoke Tassadar.

Both Artanis and Selendis turned to Tassadar as he walked up to them and the holo-map.

"What if we combine a Observers cloaking and a Arbiters Recall device with the Blaster Pylons defense and sent them into the city. The cloaking would allow them to get in closer then normal and their shields would help them to survive the rest of the way."

"It may work," expressed Selendis. "But it makes us look desperate to rely on cobbled together technology like this?!"

"True." stated Tassadar. "But another way of thinking about it is innovation on the fly."

"True." Selendis admitted.

Artanis felt confident. "We would have to see if the Phase-smiths could even rig up such a thing?"

-A Few Minutes Later-

"Now you want us to do this?!" exclaimed Kar'tes on the holo-screen.

"I know it's odd to request such, but would it be possible to do?" asked Artanis.

Kar'tes rubbed his chin-plate as he thought.

"Well it's not impossible, the Blaster Pylon was a minor success. But. It would take time to at least make sure they all work together. It would be more practical to make a few Blaster Pylons that carrier Observers under a cloak and then deploy them. Each Blaster Pylon could hold a few dozen of them if I remove their own cloaking systems and replace it with a Recall device from the Arbiters. We'll have to gut a lot of units for parts!"

"How many can you make with in two hours?" asked Tassadar.

"I already built twelve Blaster Pylons. Maybe just under that time limit. All we would have to do is pull some components from Arbiters and Observers and switch them around a bit." explained Kar'tes

"Then see that it is done Kar'tes." spoke Artanis.

"Yes Executor."

The Phase-smith departed the command room returning to his workshop in the Nexus lower levels.

Artanis turned his full attention to the final preparations for the attack on Kor-shakal. He warped in hundreds of Zealots, Dragoons and Revears along with over a hundred more Scouts and Arbiters from his fleet in orbit. He and Tassadar coordinated their build up and formed four army groups each to be lead by one of the four available leaders. Artanis, Tassadar, Fenix and Selendis. Conclave and Judicator forces attacked multiple times over the course of several hours until Artanis and Tassadars forces were ready for theirs.

Artanis, Tassadar, Fenix, Selendis and Zeratul all stood in their main bases Nexus command chamber.

"This is the plan to attack the city." stated Atranis.

On the holo-map of the region a group of Blaster Pylons appeared flying towards the virtual city of Kor-shakal. The images of the Blaster Pylons wavered becoming transparent representing a cloaking field. They continued moving towards the city until crossing the river. Once they did they came into proximity to enemy Observers and started taking fire from the anti-air defenses. The Blaster Pylons decloaked and fully activated their shields. The enemy anti-air fire continued splashing against their shields with a few failing and being destroyed. But the majority of the Blaster Pylones were able to get into the city and land. Moments later the Recall devices taken off the Arbiters activated and a dozen Zealots, Four Dragoons and two Reavers appeared.

"An interesting and ambitious plan," stated Fenix.

"It is still risky." stated Selendis. "But better then just charging in on foot. Kor-shakal is a dangerous fortification to besiege, by land or air."

"It is an inspired plan, Executor." said Zeratul. "One the Conclave will not easily counter nor expect. But you will only get one chance at it."

"I am fully aware." replied Artanis. "That is why to ensure that the plan succeeds I will be crashing a Carrier into the city." he said nonchalantly.

Everyone's eyes went wide in near shock while Fenix laughed.

"Ha ha ha. A unorthodox tactic and one i'm sure even the Conclave will be surprised by."

"That is extreme." stated Selendis. "But even if it is disabled it will provide a distraction while the Blaster Pylons make their way into the city. The hard part is proper timing."

"I presume that I and my Dark Templar will target the Conclave while your forces are attacking the city?" asked the Dark Prelate Zeratul.

"No." replied Artanis. "By the time the attack begins you will already be in the city and at the door to the Conclave itself."

"The old supply passage way" said Tassadar.

"Explain Executor." said Zeratul.

"Many long centuries ago a great ship called the Ark was constructed and then placed under the land on which Kor-shakal now resides on. During the construction of its hanger several underground material supply passage ways were created to move massive construction blocks. Several of these passage ways go under the city."

"I see." said the Dark Prelate. "But if these passages can be used why do you not use them to infiltrate the city?"

"That is because our attack on the surface will be the prefect cover for you Dark Templar to strike. And with the Conclave members in Kor-Shakal gone their chain of command will become chaos."

"I see. You have thought this plan out thoroughly Executor." complemited Zeratul.

"Thank you Zeratul. Now let us finish this battle so that we may turn our attention to the real enemy the Zerg."


-Conclave Building-

The Conclave members stood in a circle examining date concerning something called the Purifier program.

D'hax looked upon the holo-image of a white well armored robot with four legs. "This is the new prototype Purifier created from the Traitor Fenix is it not?"

Beside the image of the robot a second holoscreen shown a Phase-smith. "Yes." he replied.

D'hax narrowed his eyes at the robots image. "Keep it in stasis. We may have use of it later."

"What" said Conclave member Nal. "I have a idea."

"And what do you suggest Nal?" asked D'hax.

Nal narrowed his eyes as his brow angled as if grinning if he had a mouth. "Consider it a experiment. What if we manipulated the Purifiers memories and told it that it was created to kill the traitors. We could also fabricate a false story if that would make controlling it easier. Even if it failed it would at least provide combat data... and amusement (chuckle)"

"A interesting idea Nal. Shall we do so. All in favor say I"

"Aya!" voted a majority of the Conclave.


Fenix walked on his four mechanical legs gathering into a group of other Templar. They waited for the battle to begin and soon saw the Carrier descend from out of the sky. The ship was bombarded from afar by the defenses from Kor'shakal. Photon cannons and Tachyon spires shot their beams skywards bombarding the Carriers shields. The shields soon failed and even from where he was standing Fenix could see the hull of the ship melting and pulling away from the skeletal frame. The ship entered the city and crashed into its center districts. The cities defenses switched targets firing at the now visible and scattered Blaster Pylons now the focus of the defenses. Some were destroyed but most landed at their intended targets activating their Recall system and warping in reinforcements.

Fenix saw one group of Templar warp away and then another and another after them. Then Fenix's vision went white and he and those with him found themselves in the city with the burning hulk of the Carrier just a few blocks away. Fenix had little time to think as a Photon cannon fired on him, or rather the Blaster Pylon that was producing a dome shield around itself and Fenix's squad. The Praetor ordered the Blaster Pylon to raise its shield so He could fire back. It complied floating a bit higher as did his fellow Templar. Fenix and his squad left the Blaster Pylons defense attacking a similarly well defended defensive position.


At his base north of the city Aldaris was left surprised and stunned at the insane plan the traitors had executed. Not only had they sacrificed a Carrier just to get some odd looking new units into the city but those very units were now warping in reinforcements like a Arbiter or Gateway.

"How did they create such a thing?" the Judicator exclaimed.

All of his planes were going out the window as the city was quickly becoming a massive warzone. Sporadic battles were occurring all over the city between the defensive fortifications the Judicator himself had created and the Traitors invading. Then a holo-screen blinked on showing Nal one of the Conclave members.

"Nal!" said Aldaris. "I'm in the middle of a crisis at the moment can it wait." respectfully exclaimed Aldaris.

"Aldaris the traitors are invading the city, how are you dealing with the situation?" ordered the Conclave member.

"As best as I can. But the enemy has created beachheads already and it is proving difficult to uproot them because of those new units."

"Then shall I present a possible solution." Nal said.

Another holo-screen blinked on showing a four legged white robot. "Greetings I am Ko,toss I am Purifier created to deal with the Zerg infested Traitors."

Aldaris blinked in surprise wondering why the robot called the traitors Zerg infested. "En Taro Adun Ko'toss? What are you?"

"I am a Purifier created to fight the Zerg who threaten Aiur. I was created from the memories of Fenix before his infestation. However I know my purpose and will follow your orders Judicator and eliminate the Traitors."

Aldaris looked questioningly at Nal.

"He is the first Purifier to be activated. His performance hew in dealing with this crises will determine if the rest of the Purifiers are taken out of stasis."

Aldaris looked back to Ko'toss then to the image of Nal who's name was obviously taken from the word Protoss.

"I will use this Purifier then. And I have the perfect target in mind."

"See that you do." said Nal who then ended the conversation as his image and holo-screen blinked off.

"Ko'toss?"

"Yes said the robot."

"You will eliminate the Commanders of the... infested traitors beginning with Fenix."

"Understood. Where is my opponant?" asked the robot.


-Near Crashed Carrier, at Kor-shakals Center District-

Fenix aimed his Dragoon shells Photon cannon at a group of enemy Zealots and fired, unleashing a continues volley of photonic projectiles that ripped through their battle weakened shields and bodies.

The Dragoon clad Templar sighed to himself. "All ways using ranged weapons is boring and I personally find it lacking honor. I must get a new set of arms for this thing with Psi-blades attached."

A group of Zealots and Dragoons warped in from the nearby Blaster Pylon. They looked around the battlefield to the other wounded or dead Zealots and Dragoons from the first wave holding their eyes on Fenix's Dragoon shell.

"Praetor Fenix let us hold this ground while you and the others return to rest and recover."

Fenix at first would here none of it but thinking back to his need for blades he reconsidered.

"Very well I and the others will leave. Hold this ground while We are gone."

"Yes sir."

The second wave of reinforcements spread out guarding the area while Fenix and his squad retreated warping away via the Blaster Pylons warp function. A few minutes passed until a Enemy Arbiter appeared. The Zealots caste psi-spears at it depleting its shields. But before they failed the Arbiter used its Recall ability to warp in a odd white four legged robot. Surprised by the new enemy the Zealots hesitated a moment giving the Arbiter time to escape.

The robot hovered of the ground a moment before rapidly charging at the Zealots producing a shockwave of energy as he landed and stopped stunning them a moment. The robot reached down to the Zealot man handling him like a child's toy.

"What is this thing?!" exclaimed the Zealot as the robot seemed to scan him.

The perspective changed to Ko-toss.

In his HUD Ko'toss saw that his scan of the Zealot detected a Zerg parasite in his brain. Ko'toss then raised his other arm, plates of the arm unfolded extending a pair orange glowing energy sheathed blades and stabbed the Zealot in the chest killing him.

"Ly'der!" yelled another Zealot as he attacked Ko'toss.

Ko'toss spun around impaling the other Zealot as the third retreated to a safer distance so the Dragoons could attack. They had not done so because the Zealots were in their line of fire. Ko'toss dropped the corpses and charged Dragoons getting in close quickly and tearing them apart with his Purifier blades. The other Zealots that had scattered around the area launched a coordinated psi-spear attack on Ko'toss depleting his shields. But to the Zealots dismay Ko'toss using his shield capacitor instantly recovered his shields.

"What is this thing?" roared a Zealot as he charged.

Ko'toss extended both his arms and started spinning his upper body like a bladed top cutting through the Zealots. When he stopped Ko'toss was alone with nothing but death surrounding him. He scanned the Dragoons but none of them carried Fenix.

"It is my duty as the barer of your memories to see that you get a honorable death Fenix. Where ever your are I will find you and free you from the Zergs control."


-Beneath the Conclave Building-

Zeratul cut through a floor grating and ascended into a storage room followed by his Dark Templar. Zerion looked around sensing no one close by. They proceeded to leave the room and move silently through the lower floors of the golden and extravagantly decorated building. Practically every wall and even the ceiling had intrecently cut and beautiful gems all over.

"These Conclave people seem to enjoy lavish and excessive decoration," stated one Dark Templar.

"Dark Templar." stated Zeratul. "Ready your blades."

Zerion and the others cloaked and ignited their warp blades. Moments later ten Zealots with red markings rounded the corner of the hallway and walked towards the now cloaked Nerazim.

"Now!" said Zeratul.

Moving as one the Dark Templar attacked the Zealots slaying them to the last in mere seconds. They moved on arriving at a terminal along the wall. Zerion looked through the terminals information finding the location of their targets.

"I know where the Conclave members are." he said.

Moving like a deadly wind that leaves nothing but death the Dark Templar killed all in their path as they moved higher up the tower. Finally reaching a sealed room with a heavily guarded door. Two Dragoons, nine Zealots and a Observer guarded the path to their prey. Zeratul and the others had no other choice but to charge the defenses.

-Inside the Conclave Chambers-

Nal mused with delight watching as the decived puppet Ko'toss slaughtered it's way through the Traitors ranks seemingly too much for the flesh and blood Protoss. But his quarry was no where in sight and so he simply went from battle to battle searching for Fenix.

"It would seem the Purifier is quite the skilled fighter." said Nal

"It's combat abilities are very high. But it is regrettable that Fenix seemingly fled before it could arrive." said D'hax.

"Unfortunate." said Xegin. "But regardless the purifiers combat abilities are pleasing. And it was a stroke of genius to override some of Its memories Nal."

"Thank you Xegin. But I have to give you credit for the story regarding the traitors being infested with Zerg parasites. It believed us completely. Perhaps the other Purifiers will be easier to use if we simply wipe any unnecessary information from them."

The majority of the Conclave members agreed with that thought and any resistance was simply regarding a decrease in combat ability as a result. But the Conclaves deliberating was cut short when a door was sliced through multiple times before exploded inwards.

"What?!" exclaimed D'hax as the smoke cleared from the door way.

"Guards?" called a Conclave member.

"Where are they?" said Nal "And why did the door, Gha!"

Zerion impaled Nal through the chest as his fellow Dark Templar assassinated the other members of the Conclave.

"No it can't be the!" D'hax exclaimed in fright as every other member of the Conclave present in Kor-shakal fell dead killed by unseen blades.

Zeratul un-cloaked standing in front of D'hax. "Hear me member of the Conclave. I am Zeratul. Dark Prelate of the Narazim. Know that I was the one to take your life."

"The exiles..." D'hax said his last words as Zeratul swung his blade beheading the last member of the Conclave present in the city. Zerion stared at D'hax recognizing him as the one who ordered Zerion many long years ago to be killed when he and the rest of the people from the A'rul colony had finally returned to the Protoss empire. Zerion remembered fleeing and spending many years alone until he was found by Zeratul.

"We are done here. Let us join our allies in the battle outside" stated Zerion.

The Dark Templar left the chamber joining the battle outside.


-Lower level of the Nexus at Fenix's Base-

Fenix in his Dragoon shell stood in a mechanics shop as two large robotic arms were a fixed to his Dragoon shell, each barring a over sized Psi-blade.

"Ah these arms are perfect Kar'tes." said Fenix.

"I'm glad you like them Fenix. It seems i've been creating a lot of odd things lately. Putting giant psi-blades on a Dragoons frame doesn't seem all that odd considering what the Executor had be create before."

"True. And thank you. If it wer not for you Phase-smiths we Templar would be forces to throw rocks."

Kar'tes laughed. "Thank you Fenix."

As the two talked a Zealot ran into the room.

"Praetor Fenix!"

Fenix turned to the Zealot. "Yes?"

"We are in need of you support in the center of the city! "

"I am already returning. Is anything wrong?" He asked.

"Yes. A unknown robot is attacking our forces in the center of the city. It seems to be seeking you?"

Fenix lifted him self up with the four legs of his Dragoon shell. "Then I must make haste."

He marched out the room through the chargo doors and quickly made his way to the Gateway warping back to the city. Upon warping back he quickly found that his destination has changed to a different location then the one he was assigned.

"What?" why am I here."

Looking around he found his Dragoon shells sensors detected the same Zealot from before approach him.

"You followed?"

"Praetor that robot has already destroyed most of the Blaster Pylons in the area you first arrived in. But its movements are easy to track. I'll show you where its next target is."

"Very well then."

Fenix and the Zealot warped to another Blast Pylon located on one side of a bridge spanning a artificial water canal running through the city. There were a large gathering of Zealots and Dragoons around the Blaster Pylon guarding it.

"It approaches!" shouted one Zealot.

Fenix walked through the gathering of Zealots and Dragoons quickly catching sight of the white quadraped robot on the other side of the bridge.

"I will deal with this opponent. Do not interfere." stated Fenix as he approached the unknown enemy. "En Taro Adun my foe." Fenix greeted.

The robot stopped tilting its head seemingly perplexed.

"If you Zerg think this a trick to decive me I Ko'toss will not be deceived and Mere words will not stay my blades!"

Ko'toss extended his Purifier blades and in response the rest of the rebel Templar charged and the Dragoons spun up their Photon cannons.

"Halt!" shouted Fenix so loudly that it froze every Zealot and Dragoon in place and even made Ko'toss hesitate. "I told you that this was my battle!"

The Zealots shared looks before complying with their superiors orders, backing off until they were back where they started.

"You seem to be more then a mere drone." stated Fenix. "Do you have a name?"

Ko'toss seemed more hesitant to attack the just before. "I... my name is Ko'toss"

"Ko'toss?" Fenix repeted with a increased interest in this Ko'toss. "That is a odd name. But no matter. Are you a Warrior for the Conclave placed in a machines body or a intelligent A.I.?"

"I am Purifier. A warrior created from the best Templar. And my mission is to kill all Zerg infested Protoss who even now betray Aiur and threaten the Conclave."

"I see." said Fenix. Then shall we dual!"

"Agreed!" replied Ko'toss.

Two robotic arms extended from the sides of Fenix's Dragoon shell igniting the oversized psi-blades with Ko'toss doing the same unfolding his purifier blades. A instant later the two differing but powerful blades clashed making the air scream and sparks fly. Fenix thrust and Ko'toss dodged parrying the blade before it could strike him and counter attacked with his spinning attack. The rotating Purifier blades cut into Fenix's legs and quickly dropped lower activating his Dragoon shells hover function sliding over the ground backwards. Once out of range of the melee attack Fenix stood up again and counter attacked stopping the blades rotation with his own. The two warriors struggled against the other pushing their opponent with all their strength. Realizing they were matched the two pushed off each other landing a distance away from the other. They charged at eachother again as the Zealots watched them strike, parry, dodge each other despite their bulky formes. The twos attacks were almost mirror's of the other and they battled. But despite Fenix's skill his Dragoon was only just slower and the arms started losing their strength as they took impact damage trying to match the Purifiers more solidly built form. Fenix pushed his Dragoon shell to its limits and passed them as he tried moving faster and strike harder.

Then it happened.

Fenix parried a slash from Ko'toss only for the robot to counter with a kick damaging the Dragoon shells front left leg. Backing off to get distance Fenix became more defensive. Seeing this Ko'toss leaped into the air landing right on Fenix's front right leg crushing it. The two instantly blocked each others blades but Fenix was at the disadvantage and he knew it. Sensing blood in the air from, his weakened opponent Ko'toss leaped back only to leap forwards again. In mid-air Fenix aimed his psi-blades at his opponent only for their strength to fail due to previous damage and be batted away while the robots heavy feet smashed the front of Fenix's Dragoon shell and cut off both his already wrecked arms.

"A good battle noble Fenix but I am the victor." shouted Ko'toss as he plunged both his blades into the center of the Dragoons frame. It's remaining limbs twitched for a moment before collapsing onto the bridges metal surface dead.

Ko'toss pulled his blades out of the destroyed Dragoon and turned around. He was glad he gave Fenix the honorable death he deserved but as a Purifier he still had a job to do. Ko'toss turned around to the remaining infested and mind controlled Protoss. He took a step forwards followed but another and then another.

"Attack me all at once or one at a time I will (bang)" [Find out what happens next in the next chapter!]

-Chapter End-


[Note]

Sorry for ending this on a cliff hanger but i've been at this for 8 hours with only 1 break in the middle.

Its 6:08 PM and too damn late to continue.

I'll start the next chapter right where this one leaves off.

And Don't worry about Talendar's Name, Ko'toss is just a place holder for now.