-Chapter 49-
-Arcturus Last Stand-
-High Orbit over Korhal-
Multiple Behemoths exit through warp-space over Korhal. Through her own enhanced psionic perception and her Behemoths senses Kerrigan detected two groups of Zerg fleet forces. One still in orbit fighting against the Dominion fleet and the other holding position over the city surrounding the Korhal Palace.
"I sense that there are two powerful minds leading the rogue Zerg." spoke Nova.
"I can sense them too." Kerrigan replied. "But one seems... off how." Kerrigan focuses more on the second rogue Zerg commander detecting a familiar mental signal. "It's Aegis!" she stated.
"Aegis?" Nova said. "So that's what happened to him. I'll deal with him. You go finish off Mengsk."
Kerrigan glanced to Nova.
"Very well then. Lets finish this quickly. Take out the commanders and take control of the rogue swarm and end this."
Nova nodded summoning the eldest and strongest Queen in the Behemoth. The Queen soon entered the nerve center and bowed waiting for it's orders.
"You are to lead this fleet of Behemoths against the Rogue Zerg fighting against the Terrans. While I and Kerrigan deal with the enemy commanders on the ground."
The Queen bowed.
"Yes mistress. Destroy the enemy Zerg and aide the Terrans." The Queen repeated.
"Correct." said Kerrigan. "Come Nova let us be on our way."
-The Near Past-
-Korhal Palace, Main Defense Line-
Valerian was nocked about his command chair as several Mutalisk attacks exploded against the Odin. Multiple Thor's were out of the fight along with a increasingly larger number of dominion soldiers and forces as the battle dragged on. The Zergs numbers and types had thinned but a constant stream was still assaulting the palace from all sides. Multiple break's had been opened in the main outer walls but not the second line of defense nor had the palace it's self been attacked by Zerg forces other then by the flyers like Mutalisk and Guardians.
"Damn it!"
Valerian cursed out of frustration as He felt a bit of pain from his head. Raising a hand to his for-head he felt drips of blood flow from his head.
"Things are dragging out for too long."
Looking on the screens Valerian spied a cluster of Roaches and two Ultralisk approaching from the more recent hole made in the walls. A pair of Ultralisk's roared as they charged through the broken wall aiming directly for the Odin.
"Fire the micro Yamato's at that Ultralisk."
The Odin pilot grinned as he shifted the Odin's torso to the left towards the in coming threats.
"Yes sir."
The Odin's pilot selected the recently cooled mini Yamato cannons and deployed the Odin feet anchors's while the four cannons on it's back lowered aiming towards the Ultralisk's and Roaches. The great beasts lowered their spine cannons and fired at the Odin. Several shots deflected off or were stopped by the psi-plating of the Odin. Two others spines managed to bury themselves into the frame damaging several systems and weapons.
"Damn!" shouted the pilot as he checked the weapons systems. "The miniature-yamato cannons are fine but one of our arms cannons is out."
"Just fire." ordered Valerian.
Needing not reply the pilot aimed and pulled the trigger. Four beams shot out blasting the two Ultralisk's into paste. Leaving behind little but their charred lower torso's. The over pressure from the explosions super heated the area bathing it overwhelming heat hot enough to melt the ground and the Roaches with it leaving a crater of sizzling meat and debris behind.
"Got-em."
Valerian sighed in relief as the pilot celebrated. But the celebrations quickly ended as the real threat made its self known. The Odin was struck by a psionic blast powerful enough to leave a giant dent in the chest armor making the giant mecha tip it backwards. Reacting quickly the pilot disengaged the leg locks and moved the right leg back to stabilize the cumbersome mecha.
"Where the fucking hell did that come from?" the pilot cursed looking for the source of the attack.
Below on the ground stained with fresh blood, charred flesh burned metal and covered in countless Terran and Zerg corpses. Arcturus walked along the ground casually as the battle raged all around him. He was focused entirely on his target despite the chaos all around him. Gathering energy Arcturus formed another psi-orb aiming it at the oversized target the Odin presented. With a malicious thought and intent to kill the orb launched flying towards the emperors steed. Then like a bolt from the blue a beam lanced down from the sky striking the psi-orb mid flight. Both attacks reacted causing a massive explosion. Sweeping away the smoke and dust cloud Arcturus saw that the blast left a fairly large crater behind.
Arcturus growled in frustration.
"You again!"
Looking up to the upper Palace Arcturus saw the distant silhouette of the sniper that had taken out half the Guardians not long before. Intending to end this annoyance Arcturus spread his wings and with a burst of psionic power launched him self skywards. In a arcing trajectory He flew towards the source of his annoyance. Another beam fired at him from the Palace but with a back handed strike He deflected the attack causing the beam to refract skywards cutting a distant cloud in half. With a flap of his wings Arcturus landed on the lower roof of the massive palace standing mere dozen meters from his target.
"YOU!" Arcturus roared recognizing the annoyance as Haruka. The Sons of Korhal officer that had orchestrated his betrayal and death.
Taking a aggressive stance Haruka raised her lance and shield.
"Long time no see Arcturus. How's hell been?"
Arcturus sneered and scoffed at the woman's bluster.
"Pleasant. Let me give you a one way trip to the ninth circle my self."
Spreading his wings and claws Arcturus lunged at Haruka. She hoped back a foot just nearly avoiding the scything claws and wings slashing at her. Deftly she spun around into a roundhouse-kick landing a solid strike right into Arcturus chest. He was sent flying back but, as he did his hand grasped Harukas heel. She was pulled back with him but reacting quickly She aimed her lance at him and fired. Twisting his torso out of the way just in time Arcturus counter attacked with a energized punch. Bringing up her shield Haruka was sent flying back across the roof from the impact force. Landing on her back Haruka gasped in pain from the rough landing.
"Die!"
Arcturus launched a rapid barrage of smaller psi-blasts. Haruka rolled away bringing up Her shield as she circled around him. The psi-blasts perforating the surrounding area or deflected off Haruka's psi-plated shield. As she ran Haruka charged up her lance causing it to split into two front halves. As She circled around Arcturus the lance started glowing more and more while producing a electrical hum as it charged up excess energy. Stopping, Haruka expanded her shields plating and hunkered down a moment.
"You can't hide behind that shield forever." Shouted Arcturus as he continued launching more continues attacks at Her.
Looking down at her lance Haruka saw that it was fully overcharged. With a smirk she swung it up, aiming for a moment and fired. A thick psi-infused particle beam shot out towards Arcturus deflecting his weaker attacks and striking him head on. The lance released a bright glow and roaring electrical whine as it discharged the built up energy, eventually winding down and stopping. Lowering the lance to let it cool a moment Haruka peeked over her shield. Smoke billowed in the wind as the long half pipe carved into the roof glowed red and orange. Through the smoke Haruka made out a figure standing at the end of the glowing gouge carved into the roof.
"Shit he's tough"
Gritting His teeth Arcturus lowered his burned arms and wings. Smoke and charred chitin flacked off them as a gust of wind cleared the roof of the smoke revealing Arcturus was severely burned but other wise unhurt.
"That hurt. My turn."
Raising his arms and wings Arcturus expanded a telekinetic force wall across the roof grabbing Haruka in its grasp. In the instant his own power touched her He sensed her suppressed power and nature.
"Your not even Human!" Arcturus stated somewhat shocked. "Your like me. A hybrid?"
Haruka scoffed.
"I may be A Hybrid but im not like you Arcturus. My body containes the genes of the third gen Zerg brood queens in the Azure swarm and that of the Empress. But im not the same as you."
Haruka aimed her lance at Arcturus firing off a barrage of weaker beams.
Defending Arcturus brought up his wings and arms blocking the attacks.
"If you have the power's like mine why won't you use them?" He questioned.
"Because I chose to fight along side the Terrans as a Terran." She answered.
Arcturus laughed at the stupidity as the attacks simply deflected off his arms and wings.
"Then I'll kill you as a Terran."
Arcturus generated a barrier while charging up more energy in his arms and wings. Haruka stopped her attack and charged up her own lance while waiting for Arcturus attack. Moments later Arcturus dashed across the roof striking at Haruka. The two struck, slashed, thrust and parried each other. Dodging, blocking and counter attacking in a flurry of strikes that looked more like a elegant dance they fought a intense melee battle. As their dual continued a rumble resounded across the city as the Void seeker and a pair of Warp prisms entered the atmosphere.
[Minutes Before, Orbit]
The Hyperion along with the Gjallarhorn and Dominion fleet reinforcements continued their battle fight against the rogue Zerg fleet.
"How much longer until we break through their blockade?" asked a frustrated Raynor.
The Zerg left in orbit were doing everything they can to delay the Dominions fleet from reinforcing the capital cities forces anymore then what they already had.
"Their resisting our combined attacks considerably better then I would have thought." stated Horner in frustration.
"What about our forces on the ground?" Asked Raynor, hoping to get at least some good news.
"Well from the reports they've completed their main job of aiding the ground forces in defending and getting the anti-orbital defenses on line again. But the other half of Arcturus fleet that descended to the surface took the ground based Yamatos out again at point blank range. Most of our ground forces are scattered and the battle at the palace is getting more intense with our forces taking increased losses. But on the good news the civilian evacuation seems to be going a lot better since the enemy is focusing on the palace and have become more concentrated rather then spread out across the city."
Just then a flock of Scourges struck the Hyperion's port side shaking the ship a bit.
"Well its something at least." stated Raynor.
"Captain Horner were detecting a new warp in signature at 79 by 45." reported a officer.
"Great what now! It better be reinforcements."
"Uh there gone?"
"What?"
"The ships that warped in are gone. I had them on the scanner but then just after exiting warp-space they vanished."
Horner and Raynor shared a concerned look.
"I just hope its who Im thinking it is."
"You think they would send us reinforcements?" Horner questioned.
Raynor shrugged.
"Like I said I just hope so. Their the only group with that trick so its possible. I just wonder why their not talking with us?"
-Surface of Korhal, Dark Templar landing sight-
Zeratul, Zerion and the rest of the dark templar forces that had just warped in from the Warp Prism's took a moment to look around making sure the area was secure while also taking note of the destroyed and ruined state of the Terran city.
"Come my brothers and sisters. Let us cleanse this city of the Zerg infestation."
Following Zeratul's lead the Dark Templars split up into four groups and scattered through the city.
Zerion took a team and headed for the nearest enemy group. As the cloaked dark templars rushed out onto a elevated freeway they quickly spot a group of Terran marines fighting off a Zerg horde assaulting a structure called a hospital. Marines outside and on the upper levels fireed at a steady stream of zergling's as they continuously attacked pouring into the area from two directions.
"Come lets us aide the Terrans."
Blinking down off the elevated freeway to the streets below Zerion and his team rushed onto the open battlefield that was once a parking lot. Deftly dodging the Terrans gun fire the Dark Templar slashed and gutted the Zerg rushing into the area while making their way to the hospital entrance. One after the other the Zerg are cut down even before they are able to reach half way to the buildings entrance. Minutes pass until not a single Zerg is left alive. Gore and blood covering the parking lot and the few wrecked vehicles. The marines fire stopped signaling the Dark Templars que to leave.
Lt. Jon little-field along with a group of civilian cops and Marines took stoke of the battlefield. All the Zerg that had been assaulting them were dead and the battle over. But something was off. As the Lt. looked around the battlefield he used his visors zoom function to get a closer view of the Zerg. Sweeping his view from one corpse to another he quickly noticed cut marks on several of the Zerg bodies. And others that have been completely bisected and the wounds looked like plasma wounds.
Lt. Littlefield turned his visor off giving a light chuckle.
"That has to be the Dark templar. Why would they be here though?"
"Sir?" a marine questioned.
"It's nothing. Just some allies helping out from the shadows."
As Zerion's group moved through the city they targeted the largest groups of Zerg they could sense in the area eliminating them before they could do anymore damage. Eventually they came across a skirmish between a single marine and a pair of the multi-headed Hydralisk. The man was yelling various Terran obscenities while dodging their spines. The single marine deftly dodged the barrage ducking behind and between the many wrecked cars and trucks along the road way. He pushed one truck onto it's side to use as a shield but the two Hydralisk split up to attack from different directions. As the Dark templar watched the lone marine leveled his rifle at the one on the left and opened fire cutting through multiple cars and trucks and ripping two of the Hydralisks heads and one arm off. The gun fire made the other hydralisk react quickening its pace and rounding the truck to get in line of sight of the Marine. But just then the lone marine jumped onto one care and then onto the truck then onto the Hydralisk with his blade drawn.
Zerion was impressed as the marine crashed onto the Hydralisk smashing it into the ground and driving his blade deep enough to pierce the brain deeply recessed in the skull. The Hydralisk's tail and limbs twitched and flopped a bit before going limp. Putting two rounds into its skull for extra measure the lone marine checked his ammo and equipment before proceeding down the road. Zerion and his group left as well to fulfill their own tasks.
After having delt with two random Hydralisk Tychus jogged down the street passing scattered bodies of both Zerg and Terran civilians amongst the ruined city scape. Passing between two buildings he cut through a park and entered the parking lot of a military armory where other marines were waiting along with a ghost agent.
Kath toom of blue team lifted her rifle as Tychus arrived.
"Where the hell have you been Tychus?"
"Don't get you're panties in a wade ghosty girl I got the meds." Tychus passed Kath Toom a bag.
She ruffled through it satisfied at the contents. They both entered the armory moving to a room where the rest of Blue team was waiting.
"Got the meds" Toom reported passing the bag to a marine.
"Thanks. With these meds I can stabilize them." the marine replied as they took the bag.
Tychus sat down and got him self a drink from the water fountain as the marine tended to the wounded including which included Delta Emblock.
Tosh was at her side holding her hand as the medical trained marine gave her the drugs to help stabilize her. After giving her the meds the medical marine took off the splints and realigned her broken legs before injecting biofoam into the breaks in her legs to accelerate the healing process. Then putting the splints back on. The other wounded were tended to and after ten minutes the wounded were all stabilized.
"Ok their done. But we really should get them to the hospital where we can give them better care."
Lio took his hands off his head as if listening to his radio.
"I just got off the horn with a Lt. named littlefield. Seems his group has taken up residency at a hospital and just fended off a Zerg horde and their areas safe and clear for the moment."
Tosh nodded looking around when Tychus spoke up.
"Lt. Littlefields one of my guys. Well We came down together from orbit into this hell."
Tosh turned to him.
"Right. Then lead the way."
Tychus shrugged with a smirk.
"Heh! What would you kids do without me."
The members of blue team that could walk along with other marines helped the wounded up and those that couldn't walk were carried on wheelchairs. Emblock groaned as she was lifted into the self driving wheelchair.
"Ugh. Next time Tosh you jump and i'll catch you."
"With pleasure my dear."
-Meanwhile across the city-
Zeratul leaped slashing through a tank sized alpha Roach cleaving through its left row of legs. The beast dropped to its side but even as it's blood spilled across the ground its stumps began to heal and extend regenerating the lost appendages visibly quickly. Leaping atop the creature Zeratul stabbed and slashed cutting off its head followed by its scythes and chunks of its armor until its was truly dead and in a dozen pieces.
"These beasts are truly a terror." stated another Dark Templar as they decapitated a Alpha Zergling.
Zeratul walked away from the over sized corpse to his gathered Dark Templar warriors.
"These alpha Zerg are far more formidable than the normal ones. Truly a challenge worthy of us Dark Templar."
Suddenly a psionic blast echoed through the streets not far off leaving a eye catching blue glowing effect in the air before quickly fading. Extending his perceptions to that area Zeratul sensed a powerful being there. They were not Terran but were clearly fighting the Zerg. A great many at that.
"Come let us see who this being is."
Several blocks away Rindol was embattled with a massive horde of Zerg. Yelling she punched the air releasing a massive shockwave that pulverized dozens of Zerglings and Roaches while sending their body parts flying into a building. Hydralisk surrounding her and Mutalisk above all fired on her. Releasing a sphere of her psionic aura she stopped the projectile's and sent them flying back to their owners followed by a counter attack of her own psi-orbs. All around her the Zerg and Mutalisk above all detonated into splattering's of gore across the land scape and buildings. Taking a knee Rindol rested a moment.
"Damn!" she cursed punching a hole into the roadway.
"If I hadn't been with them then Arcturus wouldn't have sent all those Ultralisk's."
In a quick flash back Rindol with Tychus and Lt. Littlefield re-activated the anti-orbital Yamato cannon platforms ringing around the city. They fired dealing heavy damage to the Zergs fleet in orbit. But shortly after dozens of Ultralisks that had already dropped to the surface were sent to destroy the cannons. The Dominion troops including Rindol fought to protect the cannons but ultimately failed as several went down while the Rogue Zerg fleet descended from the sky and finished the rest of the cannons off. After the yamato cannons were permanently disabled Rindol and the other Terran forces regrouped only to be hunted down by the Ultralisks. Over half the forces that had dropped from the Hyperion were massacred by the beasts unrelenting assault. Realizing Her people were going to all die if she kept holding back Rindol let out a burst of psionic energy to attract the Zerg only to her. The Ultralisks quickly redirected all their attention to Rindol chasing her and being drawn away from the others. They followed her all over the city until she lead them into a wide open area where Rindol fought a difficult battle against them. But eventually she managed to kill them all. Unfortunetly the battle had also attracted more Zerg to her.
Back in the present Rindol breathed heavily exhausted from the effort she had went through. Even for a person like her killing over twelve Ultralisk's by Her self was a exhausting feet of power. Looking up to the cloudy rainy sky above Rindol sighed.
"I guess I under estimated them damn it. I wonder if Arcturus knows Im here. It would be a pain if I attracted his attention. I know that Cerebrate knows im here."
As She contemplated Her own situation her Rindol sensed cloaked Dark Templar approaching close by.
"Great I can really draw a crowd can't I. Why now all of a sudden? I never used to get this amount of attention."
Zeratul stopped in the middle of a wide open area. It was filled with the bodies of hundreds of dead Zerg and at least a sixteen Ultralisk corpses. Standing close by was a creature that looked like a Terran on the outside but who psionically felt completely different. More Zerg and something else.
"Who are you?"
Rindol shrugged with a chuckle.
"Before I think you would have called me something unflattering dark prelate Zeratul."
Zeratul and his dark templars shifted uncomfortably.
"How do you know my name and rank?"
Rindol peered into the Prelates vivid green eyes.
"Oh I know a lot about a lot of things. Like about Ellen the azure empress. The nearing resurrection of the Overmind. And Amon and his Hybrids. And also about that Valkyrur working with them. She goes by the name Selvaria. Oh and she's also my sister. Long story but if you want to hear me out Dark Prelate Zeratul I'll happily explain a few things that you may be unaware of. Like the purpose of the Umojan and Moebius foundations Hybrids."
"And how would you know of such things?" Zeratul questioned still being wary of the creature.
"Annoying Time travel stuff. Im sure you Protoss understand how complicated and dangerous that is. But just hear me out."
Zeratul had no reason to believe what the, not-Terran had to say but simply hearing Her out would not hurt. And He could always come to a decision later as to how to interpret or use her information.
-Korhal Palace Roof-
Echo's of a fierce battle resounded as two fighters battled for their lives. Arcturus slashed with his glowing claws and bladed wings. Haruka evaded dogging and weaving through the rapid slashes, counter attacking with her lance and blocking with her shield. Arcturus jumped back to get some distance before firing a psi-orb. Haruka jumped back and batting the orb away with her lance. The orb flew off into the distance exploding onto a sky-scrapper. Walls of glass shattered falling to the streets below while the explosion left several neo-steel supports visible.
Back on the roof Arcturus continued his ranged attacks keeping a distance while hitting Haruka with a unending barrage of small psi-orbs projectiles.
"Normally I wouldn't think some one like you would attack up close Arcturus. You seemed more of the cowardly type who keeps their distance and attacks at range like you are now."
Arcturus scoffed not taking the bait and continuing his attacks.
"Im no fool. Im vastly different from what I was before. Not only am I stronger but im smarter. Do think your protecting Valerian by keeping me distracted."
A psionic explosion from another powerful psi-ker detonated several dozen miles away momentarily drawing Arcturus and Haruka's attention.
"That must have been Rindol!" Haruka thought turning her attention back to Arcturus. "I have to buy time for Kerrigan and Nova to arrive."
Holding her lance up Haruka flicked a switch changing its configuration from ranged to melee. The two split halves of the lance retracted together and divided again along the thinner side projecting a materialized psi-energy into a blade edge. Switching the shields selector it extended a spike from the middle and the shields wide flat part collapsed into a more compact form. Leaping high into the air Haruka pointed her shield down at Arcturus as he turned to face her. The shield unleased a rapid barrage of smaller psi-bolts that rained down on Arcturus. He took a guarded stance.
Falling towards Him Haruka swung her lance blade striking Arcturus wing-blades. The pure energy psi-blade cut into Arcturus wing severing the appendage continuing on its path before biting into His shoulder.
As the severed wing dropped to the ground. Arcturus growled in pain.
"Ah! you going to pay for that." He growled.
Grabbing the blade with both hands Arcturus applied pressure using his fingers on the sides of the blade He slowly lifted it out of his shoulder. Both of Them strained against the others strength as they fought a battle of brute force. But with a extra free limb Arcturus could still attack and Harukas shield was on the wrong side to block. As Arcturus bladed wind swung towards Haruka's head, Arcturus was confident in his strike. The blade extended towards Her neck, but then at the last second she let go of her lance and ducked just enough to evade the strike. For a split second Arcturus was left holding up the lances full weight while Haruka was unencumbered. In that opening She dashed forwards hopping above Arcturus planting her shields psi-projector barrel right onto his chest and pulled the trigger.
At point blank Arcturus received a barrage of psi-bolts into his chest. The momentary shock stunned him long enough for Haruka to grab her lance and get away again.
Arcturus laughed as his chest smoked from the attack.
"That was painful. But did little to me. I must admit your fast. But so am I."
In a blur Arcturus psi-dashed behind Haruka claws raised. She rolled forwards spun around and thrust her psi-blade at him. The blade bit into his gut several inches while pushing him back a foot. He laughed staring down at the pure psi-blade barely cutting into his abdomen. Haruka gritted her teeth trying to push her blade further in.
Arcturus looked up at Her.
"This body really is amazing. Not only does it contain the same great potential for psionic powers that the Protoss do but is also has many of the biological evolutions the Zerg do as well. It may not be the same as yours but that can be remedied."
Arcturus swung his remaining wing blade again making Haruka jump back to evade its long reach. As her feet hit the ground She felt a stabbing pain in her lower back. Looking down Haruka saw Arcturus severed wing-blade piercing through her abdomen.
"Telekinesis! damn it. I let my guarddown!."
Gritting her teeth Haruka reinforced her body more with her suites psi-energy. Arcturus grinned in delight as he made the triple blades of his severed wing split apart opening the wound more.
"Gah!" Haruka screamed in pain as her mid section was literally pushed apart from the inside by the three bladed fingers of the wing.
Haruka screamed in agony but powered through the pain of literally getting ripped apart from the inside. Dropping her shield She reached back grabbing the wing-blades stump and using all her strength she pulled the wing-blades out but ripped the gapping gut wound open further.
Arcturus clapped his hands in amusement as pleased and entertained at the pain determination.
"That was a impressive display of will power. I almost don't feel like killing some who has such a strong desire to live. Almost."
With a flick of his hand Arcturus fired psi-orbs at Haruka again. Weakly She dodged in between the deadly orbs. Reaching down as she rolled away Haruka retrieved her shield. But in the moment she picked it up she felt stabbing pain in her legs. Looking down it was Arcturus severed wing blade again. Groaning in pain and frustration she sliced the blades off and leaped away dozens of feet to gain some distance. Keeping a eye on Arcturus she pulled the rest of the blades in her leg out and threw them over the edge of the building. As she did this Arcturus retrieved his severed wing (minus the bladed tips) and casually reattached it to his wing stump. The limb regenerated quickly reattaching it's self. Flexing his reattached limb the bladed tips quickly started regenerating until they were fully restored.
Haruka feeling like a cat out of luck gasped breathing heavily as her suit pumped bio-foam into her gaping wound doing its best to seal the bleeding off and dull the pain.
"Damn this fights not going to well."
Thinking through her options Haruka sensed two extremely powerful psionic presence's enter orbit.
"It's about time. Guess it's time for my curtain call."
Arcturus sensed the new arrival's turning his attention to the sky. Taking advantage of his distraction Haruka switched her lance back to its beam mode and took aim.
"Eyes over here." She shouted pulling the trigger.
The beam impacted Arcturus chest forcibly drawing his attention. Fed up with this game He dashed through the beam deflecting it with his psionically reinforced bare hands. He quickly reached Haruka and batted the lance aside and with a flurry of punches assaulted her. Each hit shook her to her bones and would have killed her if not for the suits psionic enhancements. But the powerful punch's also knocked towards the inner part of the Palace roof giving her a opening to defend. Quickly bringing her shield up Haruka blocked the rest Arcturus brutal punches. Little by little Haruka was forced back until she was against the edge of the inner side of the roof with the Palaces central structure behind her. Glancing back she saw the distant ground over 55 levels below her and they weren't even half way up the pyramid shaped Palace.
"Eyes front." Arcturus shouted grabbing the edge of Haruka's shield pulling it away.
Haruka turned back to see His clawed hand reach out at her. Before Haruka could react He grabbed her neck firmly like a neo-steel vice holding her over the edge. Chocking in his grasp as she hung there Haruka flailed her legs and raised her weapons to strike him. Her shield was grabbed and the arm holding the lance was severed by a flick of a wing blade. Chocking in pain Haruka glanced down as her arm and lance fell to the ground below.
"I wonder what you'll taste like?"
Haruka's eyes leered back at Arcturus.
"The idea of eating someone is still a little new to me. But if its to obtain power I think I can learn to enjoy it. Too bad you decided to fight alone. But it was more foolish to not use your own true powers. Pity."
As his jaws opened to devour her Haruka started straining a laugh catching Him off guard.
"You really think Im alone!" She stated.
The instant Arcturus hesitated to ponder those words a crescent shaped energy blade flew up from a lower level slicing his right hand off. Haruka plummeted down hundreds of feet. Looking over the edge Arcturus lost sight her as she fell down into the darkness in between the inner and outer sections of the Palace structure.
Sneering in disappointment Arcturus glanced at his right arms stump as his hand regenerated.
"Damned woman."
Arcturus thought to send a dozen psi-orbs down to obliterate whoever and whatever was down there along with Haruka. But as the psi-orb formed in his hand he felt a new and powerful psionic presence nearby. No in actuality it was someone he was knew but He was sensing them in a new way for the first time.
"Arcturus Mengsk!"
The voice he recognized boomed loudly behind him. Turning around He saw Sarah Kerrigan standing but a dozen meters away. Her new form was quit different then before as she was now wearing a praetorian armor symbiote that made her look like a armored valkyria holding a psionic bio-lance.
"Sarah." He sneered.
The two leered at each other silently as the all their emotions boiled to the surface. Second ticked by. Then in a bust of speed both of them lunged at each other.
-Nova, Minutes Before Orbital reentery-
Nova and Kerrigan descended through the atmosphere like flaming asteroids. They had left their Behemoths in orbit under the command of a queen to aid Raynor and the rest of the Dominion fleet in finishing off the rogue Zerg in orbit while they descended. Their psi-barriers protecting them for the heat of reentery strained against the pressure and heat of the air igniting. As the fire from the compressed air subsided as they slowed down both of them observed the vast city below rushing up to meet them.
"Arcturus is that way." Kerrigan stated looking off towards the Palace.
Nova turned her focus to the second rogue Zerg commander.
"Aegis is in that Leviathan. I'll take care of him." she said, peering down at the Leviathan far below them.
"I wise you good luck Nova."
"You to Kerrigan."
The two split up flying in different directions. While descending in two different directions both of them started to take antiair fire as spines and Scourges started flying at them from far below. Putting up another barrier and weaving around to evade Nova dodged most of the attacks while she continued descending to Her target Leviathan hovering over the city.
Eventually she landed on the back of the Leviathan and ran over its back in bounding leaps each stretching hundreds of feet. She quickly reached the edge of the Leviathans back and dropped down flying into a side hanger blasting her way in. As she stepped inside the massive beast she quickly felt the army of claws and teeth already skittering towards her from all over the living ship.
"Well its going to be the hard way then."
Dashing through the living creep covered hall Nova accelerated passing groups of Zerg trying to intercept her. After slaughtering the ones blocking her way she dashed down several halls until a door closed in front of her. Moments later the other doors in the hallway opened releasing a horde of Zerglings and Hydralisk on her from the adjacent rooms. Claws and spines flew at her from all sides but all of them were immediately stopped by the telekinetic barrier she put up. With Zerg chittering at her defenses Nova expanded her barrier until pressing the Zerg against the walls. Applying more pressure they She started hearing popping noises as the Zergs skulls and bones started breaking. The crushing forces eventually pulverized the Zerg horde leaving them a pile of pulped flesh and crushed chitin. Turning to the sealed bio-door She formed a psi-orb in hand and launched it exploding against the sealed door. The blast obliterated the door and left the doorway charred black from the heat.
Continuing through the Leviathans inner chambers Nova fought her way through thousands of more Zerg even taking on several Ultralisk's before finally arriving at the Cerebrates chamber. A extra thick reinforced organic door exploded inwards. Nova calmly walked in finally catching sight of Aegis after so long. It had been the Cerebrate that protected Her and Kerrigan while they were being infested and reborn as Zerg. And a loyal servant after their rebirth. A part of Nova hated the Cerebrate but another part of her felt remorseful for the creatures current state.
The Cerebrate Aegis laid on the ground of the massive chamber. Its head and body segments covered in white armor plating. Each segment toped with a spike that seemed to burrow into the Cerebrates brain and spine. Odd green liquid containers were attached to the plating too and seemed to inject their contents into him slowly.
The visor over Aegis face glowed in a single wide line as the Cerebrate raised its body roaring in challenge and threat.
"Guess were not talking this over then huh."
-Korhal Place, Inner Ground Level lobby-
Haruka blinked weakly as she groaned from the broken ribs and soar throat from Arcturus strangling her. Looking around She found her self in a small lobby with several plants lining the walls and and shattered glass fallen all around her. Groaning from the pain She heard foot steps close by. Turning her head she saw two woman with white hair and blue eyes in casual wear approach her. One holding onto her arm and lance
"Master Haruka do you need assistance?" asked Tatsuki.
"You are injured. Let us help."
Relaxing on the floor Haruka sighed.
"Yeah I could use the help. I could have kicked His ass If I was using my own powers in stead of relaying on this suit. It actually works fantastically considering I could hold my own against Arcturus. But it (ouw!) but it could still use some ajustments."
Mitsuki crossed her arms.
"Then perhaps you should not have placed such a restriction on your self."
"Perhaps." Haruka pondered feeling her body begin revolting at her abuse. Sealing her own abilities and Zerg based enhancements rendered her mostly as weak as a normal human. "Help me up would you."
Tatsuki and Mitsuki helped their master up to her feet supporting her on their shoulders.
"Where should we go mistress Haruka?" asked Tatsuki as she and her sister supported Haruka.
"Take me up to the upper levels. I could use a second to recover.
-Korhal Place, Roof-
Kerrigan and Arcturus lunged at each other holding nothing back. Their fists striking each others cheeks in a cross counter. The force sent both flying backwards their feet grinding against the ground as they landed. Feeling her cheek Kerrigan kept her eyes on Arcturus.
"It's time to end this Mengsk!"
Arcturus wiped the blood from his own face.
"Couldn't agree more. Kerrigan."
Arcturus fired a rapid barrage of psi-orbs at Kerrigan. She dodged out of the way and rolling to her feet She dashed around Arcturus zigzagging across the roof like a blur. As his targets speed only increased Arcturus accuracy only dropped until he was basically shooting randomly in all directions while she easily evaded his scattered attacks. Taking the moments opportunity to it's fullest Kerrigan focused all her energy into her body and dashed straight at Arcturus fist raised. Momentarily too scattered in his focus to react fast enough Arcturus took a powerful blow to his gut sending him flying off the roof. Flapping his wings Arcturus hovered in place a moment before Kerrigan generated a telekinetic force as she swatted at him like a fly-swatter. The wall of invisible force slammed into Arcturus launching Him downwards like a bullet. He impacted the ground landing right into the middle of the battle. All around him Zerg and Terran forces fought as the piles of the dead lay scattered all around. Not even knowing He was there the towering Odin lifted it's massive leg stepping towards him. Arcturus quickly rolled out of the way as the Odins foot slammed down depressing the ground with its great weight.
"Gragh get out of my way." Arcturus bellowed at the massive mecha.
As he gathered energy Kerrigan swooped in from the side kicking Arcturus so hard he went flying dozens of meters away. Crashing into a destroyed Goliath Arcturus released his attack prematurely. The explosion annihilated the half destroyed Goliath and drew the attention of a pair of Thor's who spotted Arcturus standing up in the blast crater.
"What the hell is that?" questioned a Thor pilot.
"I don't know but its not Terran so shoot it." stated the second Thor's pilot.
Both Thor's opened up on Arcturus firing a barrage of cannon shells and missiles at him.
"Out of my way you annoying fly's!" Arcturus shoted starting to lose his cool.
The projectiles were all stopped in their tracks by a powerful telekinetic force and promptly redirected back at the Thor's. The heavy mecha took their own punishment as chunks of armor and limbs were blasted off and their systems heavily damaged. The heavy damage caused both to fall to the ground before exploding.
As the two Thor's burned Kerrigan swooped in again taking Arcturus off guard.
"Arcturus!" She shouted as she fired a beam of psionic energy. The beam struck Arcturus pushing him several hundred meters away. As His feet grinded against the ground carving a trench Arcturus slammed into the side of the Palace. As the beam attack ended Arcturus pulled his charred body out of the wall he was literally pushed into by the force of the attack.
Before He could recover Kerrigan dashed up to him landing a powerful series of kick and punches. The powerful psionically infused attacks dazed Arcturus long enough for Kerrigan to launch skywards with another telekinetic blast of force launching him high into the air like a missile. As Arcturus flew skywards Kerrigan followed extending her wings. Shaking off the disorientation as he kept flying upwards Arcturus flapped his own wings generating his own hover force. Flying higher to gain distance He evaded a swooping attack from Kerrigan as she flew passed him. Flying circles around Arcturus Kerrigan launched a series of psionic blasts blowing chunks out of the Palace as she chased Arcturus higher and higher up the structure. Eventually they reached the top of the Palace and both of them landed near the peek of the massive pyramid like mega structure.
Kerrigan clenched her fists fully intending to end Arcturus today.
"Had enough running Mengsk."
Arcturus stood up straighter.
"Yes. I have had enough. Of you. You were supposed to die on Tarsonis with the confederacy. And since then you've out lived your intended date with the grim reaper. I suppose its fate or something but I've always made my own luck and controlled my own fate ever since vowing revenge against the Confederacy and you."
Kerrigan pulled out her lance and gave Arcturus a glare of pure anger.
"I may have been a dog of the Confederacy. But for the time I was with the Sons of Korhal I truely believed in Your cause. I trusted you and was thankful when you said you forgave me for killing your family." Kerrigan laughed remembering what really happed back then now that Ellen allowed he to. "Too bad you'll never get to see them again."
"What? What are you talking about?"
"Your family. Ellen the Empress of the Azure swarm has a bad habit of putting her nose into other peoples business. And I just remembered that the people I and the other two ghosts 24506 and 24718, had killed that day were fake replacements. "
"Your laying!"
"Maybe." Kerrigan shrugged. "But even if I was It wouldn't matter. You'll never see them."
Pointing the lance at Arcturus Kerrigan unleased a beam attack like before. Arcturus dodged out of the way quickly closing the distance. Kerrigan fired her lance missing Arcturus with each shot as he deftly dodged every shot quickly reaching Kerrigan in but seconds. As his anger rose at her mentioning of his dead family Arcturus unleashing a barrage of punches that put Kerrigan on the defensive. As Arcturus flurry of attacks forced Kerrigan back they both started moving across the sloped roof to the edge. As Kerrigan's feet dangerously neared the edges of the building She started laughing. The laughing and giggling became so insistent it worried Arcturus. Even when she's on the defensive and being forced back she was laughing like she was the one winning. Arcturus kicked the lance out of her hand impaling both of Kerrigan shoulders with His bladed wings.
"What's so funny? You bitch!" Arcturus demanded as he started strangling her with both hands.
As the blood dripped from her wounds Kerrigan only laughed more in a voice that didn't sound strained or horse as it should have been when being strangled.
"Because. "Kerrigan said with a grin." It's true what Tassadar said. So long as you continue to be predictable your are your own worse enemy."
In that moment in a turn around Arcturus was impaled from behind and the Kerrigan in his clutches disappeared into vapor. A mere hallucination.
"What? how?"
A confused Arcturus turned back to the real Kerrigan holding the bio-lance that even now glowed with a intensely focused and tremendous amount of psionic energy that burned Arcturus flesh.
"Its a lesson and a trick I learned from Tassadar back when we fought once. I was clearly the looser then as you are now. Now just disappear."
"No. No. No. I can't lose here not after I obtained this power I.."
With all her strength Kerrigan sealed Arcturus movements and lifted Him up aiming her lance towards the sky. Gripping the lance with both hands she discharged all the built up energy projecting a massive beam into the sky that split the clouds as the force of the beam dented in the roof she stood on. Arcturus silently screamed as his body slowly burned away to nothing but ashes. As the beam faded away Kerrigan lowered the lance taking in a deep breath of air. Arcturus was dead and She felt his mind and life force fade to nothing as he was destroyed down to his essence. Dropping to her knees from exhaustion Kerrigan took several minutes to just sit there and let her self a moment of silent rest.
-Aegis Leviathan-
Raising up Aegis spewed a flood of acid across the room as its target jumped into the air. Falling towards the cerebrate Nova thrust her lance into the face plate covering the Cerebrates skull. Piercing into the armored plate the lance split and cracked it creating a spider wed of cracks. Pulling back Aegis roared in pain and begun thrashing about churning up the shallow pool of acid. Jumping away and landing on the wall Nova watched as the damaged face plate seemed to deal more pain then it should.
"I wonder, is that equipment from the Moebius foundation. Is that how he's being controlled."
As Nova contemplated Aegis recovered and quickly turned around. Lunging towards Nova Aegis opened its maw hoping to catch her in its jaws. Dropping into the acid pool narrowly avoiding the massive pair of jaws Nova punched upwards producing a telekinetic force that knocked Aegis back into the wall on the other side of the chamber.
"That gear has got to go!"
Ignoring her own melting armor Nova focused holding Aegis in a telekinetic grip against the floor. Once bound and steady She pointed her lance at the Cerebrate and fired a thin scalpel like beam that cut along Aegis back slicing through and removing the locks keeping the plating on. Dozens of the liquid containers shattered spilling their contents all over the room as the beam sliced the spicks off. Aegis tried thrashing about but the force holding him in place was too great as he strained against the force holding him to no avail. Eventually the last spike, liquid container and plating was removed from Aegis. With one last roar the Cerebrate collapsed unconscious.
As the exhausted Cerebrate became silent Nova walked up to the creature placing a hand on it's wounded carapace.
"Perhaps it would have been better to kill you. But maybe your knowledge will help the dominion. The Moebius core must have facilities that you may know about. Pergaps you can still be useful to Me Aegis."
Moments later Aegis eyes half opened and slowly turned to Nova.
"MAsTer. NoVa." the cerebrate projected.
Nova backed away surprised at the cerebrates resilience.
"Your awake?" Nova replied.
"HarD Too think. MINd foGGy. BUT, StiLL ReMemBER MASTERS. KeRRIgan and NoVA."
"Aegis. Can you tell me about an organization called Moebius?"
Momentarily the Cerebrates eyes opened wide.
"YES. ThE ONE NAmed NarUD. He, deFEATed me. CAPTured ME. PUT THese. DeVICES on ME. I. ForCED to OBAY. COuLD Not DiSSobay."
Getting a better picture of what happened Nova decided that she had made the correct decision in keeping him alive. Both the Dominion and the Protoss will be greatly interested in this information.
"I see. Rest now Aegis. Well talk more after you recovered."
-Korhal, Orbit, Hyperion Bridge: Minutes Before-
As another three Behemoths died from the ships yamato cannon Raynor thought that this would never end. Every few minutes new Zerg reinforcements would warp in from some where and join the battle. Oddly some of those that arrived recently started attacking the Enemy Zerg. Not that it matters to Raynor he would accept help from just about any one at this point. He thought it was odd and wondered if it was the Zerg fleet Kerrigan and Nova still had control over. They had helped and were dealing considerably damage to the enemy Zerg forces. But the rogue enemy Zerg were tenacious if anything. But just moments ago they stopped all attacks and were just drifting there.
"Enemies forces have ceased all attacks?" reported Horner slightly confused at the sudden change in enemy behavior.
"Well damn. It must have been Kerrigan." stated Raynor relaxing.
"Should we contact the surface and confirm commander?" asked Horner.
"Yeah. Lets get on the horn with Valerian and Warfield. Maybe this whole things over with."
-UNSC Expeditionary Fleet, Infinity Class Capital ship, Aleksander-
Sitting at his desk in his private room Admiral Dugalle read the after incident reports regarding the Zerg attack on his fleet. Over a dozen ships had been lost and dozens of others badly damaged along with thousands of personal killed including many wounded. The worst loss was that of one of the asteroid colony ships. Though its hull was intact for the most part the interior systems were wrecked and the majority of the crew killed when multiple Nydus worms ate their way inside and released thousands of Zerg into its halls. Even after the Zerg fleet fled security teams including Selvaria and her team of Valkyria fought for hours to clear the ship of the Zerg infestation. After sending teams of engineers in to asses the damage the ship was considered a complete loss as it would take months to repair it's systems to full functionality.
The door opened revealing Selvaria.
"You wanted to talk admiral?"
Dugalle placed the papers down and clasped his hands together.
"Yes. I wanted to talk with you about the lost colony ship and the Zerg attack."
"What did you want to know?" Selvaria asked slightly tilting her head.
"In one of the reports concerning the cargo contents of the ship and in another report from a few weeks ago you took out several ships under your special athority to retrieve that artifact... what was it called again?"
"The Keystone."
"Ah yes the keystone. From these reports I have discovered a concerning fact. The infested Terran that lead the attack on your colony ship seems to have stolen the key stone fragment you retrieved previously. Now Im no expert on xeno-archeology but it seems that the whole reason the Zerg attacked us was to retrieve this fragment. Can you elaborate on the function of this keystone for me."
Selvaria hesitated a moment as she pulled her story together. The next phase of the plans Amon had created were on the line so she couldn't afford to fail in convincing the admiral.
"I'll explain but I must include something else first. From what the xeno-archaeology organization back on earth can determine the Valkyrur ruins in Gallia were created my non humans several thousand years ago. The pictographs and writings in the ruins have all explained that there is a object of great importance here in the Koprulu sector. This is one of the reasons this expedition was sent in the first place."
Dugalle hummed in thought wandering if that was in deed the whole truth.
"And this Keystone is some how connected to the ruins on earth?"
"Yes. Though we don't know everything so far our information leads us to believe the keystone is a map to lead us somewhere or is a component of the real key. From the analysis my people were able to conduct on the fragment we had learned it is made from a similar materials and has a energy signature much like the Valkyrur lance and shields."
Dugalle leaned back taking this all in and thinking on it a moment.
"So the same race responsible for creating the Valkyrur including that zerg empress also has us looking for a scavenger hunt for their old tech huh?"
Selveria looked concerned a moment surprised the Admiral knew about that. Information concerning the fact the Azure Swarms Empress is a Valkyrur is a closely kept secret.
"How did you knew that admiral? There are very few that have that information?"
Dugalle looked Selvaria in the eyes with a grin.
"Im a high ranked admiral. Im privy to certain information."
Leaning in his chair a little happy to have flustered Her the admiral relaxed.
"So you think we should retrieve these keystone fragments do you?"
Selvaria nodded.
"Yes. They may be a means to access a ancient vault of technology or a serve as a guide to the aliens that created them. But conjecture isn't really helpful. What I do know is that we can't let them fall into the hands of other groups. The azure empress already had one of the Valkyrur shields and her hordes. If we are to keep the Terran race safe and strong we need to start collecting artifacts of this ancient civilization."
Dugalle contemplated Selvaria's words. She wasent wrong and it was the admirals top priority to keep the Terran race safe as a Officer in the UNSC navy.
Moments later the ships intercom beeped to life.
"Admiral sir. A delegation from the Umoja and Moebius foundation has just arrived and are requesting a meeting with you directly."
At that information the admiral raised his eye brows in surprise.
"Now what reason would they have to come here?" Dugalle thought. "Let them land. I'll talk with them shortly." Dugalle stood up. "We'll continue our conversation regarding this later."
Selvaria nodded and left. Shortly after she exited the admirals room Alexi entered.
"Learn anything admiral?" He asked.
"Unfortunately no. She explained that the keystone fragment were important and made by the same ancient aliens that created the ruins in Gallia on Earth, but not much else. Though I do agree with her that We should be the ones who has them in our custody."
Alexi hummed a moment contemplating the situation.
"As do I. From the few minutes I had to analyze the keystone fragment my self I discovered it has interesting properties."
"Such as?"
"Well from what I saw the object is actually a quasi-dimensional structured system."
"Meaning?"
"Meaning its appearance is something of a illusion. It may look like a small object thats broken into fragments but its true form lay's in a pocket dimension. The configuration of its so called fragments is perhaps a method of changing its functions or shift its abilities. What I understand about it without a shadow of doubt is that its a powerful, energy and information conversion system. Perhaps able to alter and reconfigure matter, energy and information around. Now that I think about it. It may be possible to use such a system to manufacture the highly pure Ragnite lances and shields of the Valkyrur. Or anything else. Whatever else it is, the keystone seems to be a highly advanced technology. If we can obtain all its fragments and understand its systems we could jump our technology by centuries or even thousands of years."
Dugalle nodded trusting his old friends assessment.
"I'll take your consideration under advisement. But for now i'll ask you another question old friend." Alexi raised a eye brow at that statement. "Do you think we can trust Selvaria."
"Historically religious zealots have always brought trouble down on other people. Sometimes their own. Do I think she'll betray us. Hard to tell. But I do think she has her own agenda separate from ours. Perhaps its concerning this keystone everyone hell bent on obtaining."
Dugalle walking passed Alexi. Grabbing his hat on the wall rack the admiral opened the door.
"We'll just have to keep a eye on her then."
-Minutes Later, East Hanger bay Deck 17-
Dugalle watched as the shuttle landed and the airlock doors closed behind it. Minister Jorgensen wearing a fancy diplomatic suit exited the shuttle along with two armed Shadow guards and Dr. Narud leader of the Moebius foundation him self. Seeing the admiral Jorgensen approached waving in a friendly manner.
"Ah. Admiral. Its a pleasure to finally meet you."
Dugalle took the mans hand and they shook.
"It is also my pleasure to meet you Minister. It must be hard to pull away from you duties to talk with me."
"It is. Most of my time is kept on writing reform bills, overseeing repairs to Umoja or reading battle reports of our military forces hunting down the scattered remnants of the Zerg forces after we pushed them off our world. The Kel-morian's are also having the same problem. We can't let them live or else they just find another rock to multiply on and then they would be a serious threat all over again."
"I see. Well then shall we find another place to continue our conversation in more comfort and away from prying eyes."
"Please lead the way Admiral."
Dugalle lead the delegation back to his personal room. Narud and Jorgensen sat in both the seats across the admirals desk while their shadow guard escorts waited outside.
"Now gentlemen if you don't mind my asking bluntly. Why are two extremely powerful and important men like the two of you on my ship?"
"Allow me to explain Admiral" Narud started. "You know of our Hybrids do you not?"
"I do. A powerful living weapon. If not highly controversial. The idea of combining the genes of two of the most powerful races in the galaxy and trying to make it a weapon under ones control is... "
"Mad!" Narud interrupted.
"Is the term I would use. " Dugalle admitted. "If I did not see the videos my self I would call the Moebius foundation completely insane for attempting such a thing."
Narud remained passive as Jorgensen gave Him a glance.
"While it is quite true the process of creating Hybrids is difficult and dangerous it is not impossible. We did have some loss of life and security problems with the earlier models. But I assure you Admiral that the current Hybrids are fully under our control."
"I see." Dugalle mussed. "So getting back on track. Why are you here?"
"As I was stating before The Hybrids are apart of the reason. We are able to control them via the use of multiple special implants that both work in tandem."
Dugalle raised a eye brow as Narud continued.
"During the last years of the Terran Confederacy's existence before the fall of Tarsonis the Moebius foundation researched, developed and constructed a device called the Psi-disrupter, along with its counter-part the Psi-emitter. The Sons of Korhal under Arcturus Mengsk at the time stole and used the psi-emitter to lure Zerg to attack several Confederate worlds."
"This Emitter can attract Zerg." Dugalle asked finding such tech more then a little interesting.
"It does." Narud replied. "As does the psi-disrupter disrupt the Zerg hive mind. Though they were initially constructed to be used against enemy psi-kers they have been since redeveloped and enhanced to be used on any race that has psionic abilities. Even the Protoss given proper configuration."
Dugalle stroked his chin becoming more interested. Though tech that disrupts people with psionic abilities weren't special since it existed uncommonly in the UNSC and Terran colonies as a tool for apprehending criminals with psionic powers. And some times military and ex-military personal when they crossed the line.
"Technology to properly contain and counter psionic beings exists in the UNSC and her colonies as well. People with power will inevitably abuse that power. But these devices are able to manipulate Zerg against the hive minds will can it not."
"To varying degrees." Narud answered. "A modified form of both technologies is used to control the Hybrids. Though we must implant the devices into their brains early in the growth cycle. Other wise they are mindless rampaging beasts."
"This information is most intriguing. But you must have a reason for explaining this to me?" the admiral stated in question.
Jorgensen took his turn speaking up.
"That is why both of us are here. Were here to propose a alliance in return for this technology. We are aware of the Dominions attempts to collect the fragments of the xeno-tech known as the Keystone. It is a extremely important artifact as it can be used as a means of accessing a place known as the lesser ark though it is but a piece of the key to the door."
Dugalle thought that to be quit literal of a name.
"So not only is it named a keystone but it is in fact a literal key to this place called The lesser ark?"
"Yes." Narud answered. "The Moebius foundation has researched alien ruins for a long time across the Koprulu sector and from our collective findings believes the Lesser ark is a repository of some kind that holds a great wealth of ancient technology from the precursor race. The same ones responsible for creating the warp gates linking Mars to Reach as well as the keystone and other ruins through the sector and galaxy. Would it not prove prudent for us Terrans to be the ones to control this technology rather then other races like the Protoss or the Zerg."
A troubled thought flew around his mind as Dugalle could not help but agree with the two of them. Who knows what horrors would com about if the Zerg and the Azure empress got their claws on the legacy of this ancient race who must also be the ones who created the Valkyrur. The Protoss perhaps have had access to this tech already and is the reason their so advanced. Which is why its a problem if they were to gain more of the technology.
"I can not abide in other races gaining access to this Lesser Ark. If it advances the ideals and protects the people of the UNSC and her colonies then I will promise to provide the full support of my fleet in retrieving the keystone fragments."
Jorgensen smiled while Narud sat there stoically.
"Then I believe we have some papers to sign admiral."
Several days passed after the signing of the alliance between the Umojan protectorate and the UNSC. Shortly after-words the Kel-morian combine also joined the alliance. There was much talk of possibly the Dominion also joining the alliance but the emperor had yet to disclose any such declaration either way for or against the alliance.
-Shakuras: Talematros. Daelaam Council Chambers-
It had been a full week since Arcturus attack on Korhal and His death at the hands of Kerrigan. Emperor Valerian walked through the hallways of the Daelaam council spire. Normally the emperor of the Dominion would have a escort of hundreds of elite soldiers but here at the Daelaam council the Daelaam was responsible for protecting their delegates. Not that they weren't any Terran ghost agents present but they are not allowed in the council meeting chambers as it is a place of words. Not weapons and warriors. At first Valerian was almost all too happy to be rid of his fathers shadow and looming threat. But now that he is dead Valerian only finds himself wondering if Arcturus would have actually been a better ruler. Shaking off such thoughts Valerian stopped at the gate outside the meeting chambers. Tall Templar and Dark Templar guards standing in two pairs bared the way so He just waited until he was called. As he waited Valerian prepared him self for his report of the events of the attack on Korhal to the Daelaam council. Making sure his words were properly organised.
"Emperor Valerian of the Terran Dominion you may enter." spoke one Zealot.
The guards and beautifully decorated double doors parted allowing Valerian to enter. Inside was the council in their elaborate seats with the Hierarch Tassadar in the middle.
"Emperor Valerian" Tassadar stated his mental voice booming. "We once again welcome you to our council as a friend and ally. It pains me to hear of the tragedy that befell your capital world not long ago. I can only offer my sincerest apologies for not being able to react in time to aide one of our allies."
"Yes a tragedy brought about by the vile Zerg." stated Hierarchy member Aldaris. "However if I've read the reports right there still exists a Zerg presence in the Korhal system. Along with a Cerebrate no less. I would like to know what your thinking Emperor allowing their continued existence."
An elderly Dark Templar raised his hand to the younger Aldaris.
"Let the Human speak Aldaris. Tis why he came here when his people are yet rebuilding their besieged world. A rulers time is precious and He saw fit to use it on coming her personally to inform us of the happenings on his world in person."
Another Hierarchy member Tabrenus leader of the Furinax Tribe spoke up.
"I agree with elder Mohendar. We should listen to the Terran before making banter."
Matriarch Raszagal extended her arm calming the others.
"Now Emperor Valerian please explain what had occurred on your world and why you thought it was necessary for you to come here your self instead of sending a normal delegation as per the normal discourse between your people and the Daelaam?"
Valerian let out a relaxed breath. He could always count on the matriarch to calm the room and be neutral when others spoke out against his presence here.
"Thank you Matriarch. I do in fact have a serious matter to discuss with the Daelaam. The attack on the Terran Dominions capital world of Korhal a week ago was perpetrated by a infested Terran known as Arcturus mengsk. My own father."
The Daelaam hierarchy continued to impassively listen as He explained everything.
"As you may know during the Great war several Terran worlds were attacked by the Zerg swarm, then controlled by the Overmind. Arcturus was the then leader of the Rebellion group known as the Sons of Korhal who fought against the Terran Confederacy. Arcturus gained devices created by the Confederacy know as the Psi-emitter. He used these devices to attract the Zerg to multiple worlds including the heart of the then Confederacy to destabilize it."
Aldaris rolled his eyes at the long winded explanation only to find him self staring right at the Hierarch who had just glanced over at him. He quickly turned his gaze back to the Terran.
"How does this concern the recent events?" asked Raszagal as He continued.
"When Arcturus unleased the Zerg on Tarsonis I killed him my self with the help of one of my now close confidants. I saw him die. But his body was stolen shortly after and never recovered. I believe it was Amon and Naruds plane to use Arcturus to turn things in his favor. The Umojan protectorate the Kel-morian's and the UNSC expeditionary fleet are all now in a alliance because of Arcturus actions. And lest I remined you that they created the Hybrids and even now flaunt them as a super weapon. I understand just how much you despise the idea of having your peoples blood being used in their creation."
Hierarch Tassadar spoke up.
"You believe they intend to wage war on us with the Hybrids. While isolating your Dominion by manipulating the other Terran powers in the sector to their side."
"They've already succeeded at that part of their plane." Valerian stated. "As to what their end goal is in all this I can't really guess."
"We do not require to understand their plans." Urun leader of the Auriga Tribe stated. "These Terran groups are all our enemies by virtue of them creating the vile Hybrids in the first place. We need only crush their Hybrid production facilities and punish them for defiling and attacking our people."
"I concur." stated Kotoss who was the only active member of the Purifiers. Most of whom were still remained in stasis. "The Hybrids are a threat and abomination to us Protoss."
Aldaris scoffed.
"Says the robot. I still find it surprising that your allowed to be apart of this council considering most of your, 'People' remain in stasis."
Ko'toss stared daggers back at Aldaris but said nothing.
"Enough" stated Tassadar in a commanding voice. "Though I too find my blood boiling from the vary existence of these Hybrids we must remain calm and wait until Executor Artanis and Selendis return with their report concerning the locations of the Hybrid production facilities."
"About that Hierarch."
All eyes turned to the lone Terran.
Valerian continued.
"The Cerebrate that served Arcturus and who is now in the Dominions custody was discovered to have been captured by Narud leader of the Moebius foundation himself. And what's more important is that It knows the locations of several Hybrid production facilities."
"Is this true?" Asked Raszagal.
"If you want to send a delegation to confirm the information yourselves I'll allow it."
Nahaan leader of the Ara Tribe spoke up.
"You Terrans are arrogant to think you can control a cerebrate. Or in thinking we Protoss require you permission."
With confidence that he's got the upper hand for once Valerian smirked ever so slightly.
"I understand exactly how dangerous a Cerebrate is and that it is almost impossible to kill them. But luckily for me the one who ended Arcturus is in control of the Cerebrate and they are a close ally of mine. Her name is Sarah Kerrigan."
The whole council found that reveal discomforting. Even Tassadar took a moment to quall his raising anger at Kerrigan's name considering her actions during the great war.
"Look." Valerian stated. "I know how you feel concerning Kerrigan. But she is a different person then when the Overmind had her under it's control. And I do consider her a ally. Even if she's a infested."
Several members of the council looked as if to decry Valerian for blatantly stating his endorsement of Kerrigan as a ally. But before anyone could the whole room erupted in echoes from Tassadars sudden laughter. Everyone was shocked even Valerian.
"Is everything alright Hierarch?" asked Matriarch Raszagal some what concerned at His behavior.
Calming down Tassadar turned to the matriarch.
"Tis but these odd alliances Matriarch. First the Empress of the Azure swarm purges our home land of the Overminds rampaging rogue broods then Amon and Narud make the other Terran factions their allies through subversion. And while we're in alliance with the Terran Dominion they have one of our greatest enemies Kerrigan in their ranks. If this web of odd alliances continue to become more tangled like a ball of string I fear we will need to create a whole new organization devoted to unraveling it all."
Valerian chuckled.
"I can't agree more Hierarch. We Terrans have a saying. Yesterdays enemies can become tomorrow's allies."
While the Heirarch and the Terran emperor enjoyed their little moment of aligned thoughts Ko'toss scoffed as his thoughts turned serious.
"If I may give a word of council Hierarch."
Tassadar glanced over to the purifier.
"Speak your mind."
Ko'toss continued.
"If the Protoss are to hunt down the Hybrids then the Daelaam will require all the power they can manage. The purifiers will serve well in this function I believe. Let us be the tip of the spear in ridding the galaxy if the Hybrids."
"That is a separate matter to the current discussion." stated Another hierarchy member by the name of Zekrath.
"Still it requires consideration. We have been discussion the subject of the Purifiers for sometime without a conclusive decision." Mohander stated.
"I agree with Mohander." added Urun.
Tassadar turned to Valerian.
"Apologies Valerian. We will discuss the matter of the Cerebrate and Kerrigan later. For now please return to your chambers while we put a end to this discussion regarding the Purifiers."
Valerian nodded.
"I understand Hierarch."
-Chapter End-