Intriguing.What happened in the meantime, will be revealed with rediscovery of Human homeworld's fate
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What happened in the meantime, will be revealed with rediscovery of Human homeworld's fate
Thanks for getting back. I am looking forward to finding out what happened to the Earth.
Internal developments, III.
SMS Konstantin Ziolkowski. Log 5144.8545. Captain's note: Transfer of W274 IV's expedition to SMS Fledermaus
[door opening]
"I hope all the accomodations in previous days were adequate, after such unpleasant experience, doctor."
[coughing]
"Are you all right?"
"Yes, thank you. It must be that literal change of air. I wasn't used to recycled atmosphere of starship for a long time."
"Although, some of my colleagues remains surprised by rather...rash decision to left the planet, after we found you."
[fake ironic laughter]
"I suppose they would be less surprised, if they stayed at the same place alone for a years. Like me. Trust me, there wasn't more to explore."
[sigh]
"But I must thank you again, professor, for so much understanding. It was really important for me to find someone who...thinks alike. Let me to shake your hand one last time. Until we meet again."
[soft ripping sound]
"I...yes...until we...meet again."
[minute of silence]
"We should go. The docking of Fledermaus is probably finished by now."
"Of course. Lead the way, professor."
[two minutes of walking]
[airlock opening]
"Ah, Oberst Strasser. What are you..."
[gunshot]
"Quiet. Don't move."
[cracking sounds]
[multiple gunshots]
"Herr Oberst. It's in him, too."
"What are you talking about?"
"Sorry professor. Orders from Berlin."
[gunshot]
"Scan the crew. We can let anything escape the ship."
[marines running and shouting orders]
"Turn that damn thing off."
[gunshot]
[static sounds]
Puzzled by suspicious person of 'Exile' from the start, both medical officer and ship's captain alerted the Reichsflotte to investigate the outpost despite the chief scientist's order. After a thorough search, desiccated bodies were found underneath.
Never quite a public knowledge, but later a public secret amongst the Human scientific community, W274 Incident became the very clear and disturbingly specific warning for too eager researchers. The thing which murdered the staff of the research outpost was captured only through use of cunning and bravery of the ship Tsiolkovsky's crew. Apparently, the parasitic lifeform was able to gradually take control of body on cellular level and then replaced victim's mind with it's own, at the cost of memories of course. This probably alarmed the people in the outpost and caused the lifeform to act: most of them were stabbed or choked with no signs of struggle, which indicated they were murdered one by one, probably too familiar with murderer's face.
Compared to this gruesome experience, so called 'Teachings of Warriors' were much more brighter example of newfound knowledge about surrounding universe. With the some sort of universal martial text referenced by vicious Provalguvor raiders on numerous occasions before, planet 15 Leonis III contained the oldest found copy. A paper copy, in addition. But this was not revealed until the dead alien language was deciphered. Like the few of the previous findings of old galactic literature, the text was attributed to mysterious writer known a 'Telisa', which could be a pseudonym. Soon, it became part of standard imperial education, to show Human children how much their Empire is shaped by natural state of the universe, always full of struggle for survival. It clearly showed, that peace is not natural state of the universe, only the reward which must be earned first, guarded and defended vigorously.
So called 'L-Gates' were another breathtaking discovery in the Human space, which will take entire generations to unlock it's secrets, with a lot of archeotech research and support from not much overjoyed Curators, unsure, what may happen next. Their fears were unfounded, however, since the Empire, surrounded with many potential enemies, and after few unpleasant discoveries so far, was in no hurry to find out what may exist on the other side.
Instead, Human scientists focused on rifts again, with more promising results and with little resources and time spent. Particularly, the unstable rift found by SMS Ludwig Leichhardt produced a lot of useful data - until this discovery, the spatial rifts were considered as one-way ruptures in space and time, exactly like the one used by Human colonists from Chrysanthemum ark ship.
Observation of the rift revealed further data: nature of the each rift is absolutely unique and somewhat susceptible or more precisely - predisposed - for unpredictable changes for whatever reason. Every attempt to actually stabilize the thing was done in vain, as if something inside actively created countermeasures against it. When ship's emitters tried to affect it with various kind of particles or radiation, or even detonated neutron bomb at it's entrance, the rift changed back to it's previous characteristics. Or changed completely, so the science crew had to start anew.
Oddly enough, this was not the strangest discovery of Human physics, for so much generations limited by their homeworld, first on Earth, then Berlin and the limited technology to break boundaries of space and time. Now, they could observe the practical impossibility to ever fully understand the universe. Just after the so called 'Self-preserving Rift Theory' was proposed, bigger challenge revealed itself in front of Ludwig Leichhardt's science crew.
Anything related to time travel was, until recently, a domain of popular fiction, not an academic circles. But now, right in front of their eyes, lied the fact of two identical ships of same origin, but different timeline, most likely caused by gravitational interference of the pulsar. Another explanation was also contemplated, that before pulsar was formed, the destruction of former star somehow damaged fabric of time and space locally. Which would explain the higher concentration of rifts in surrounding systems.
Initial communication progressed slowly, at first, due to difficulties with understanding of alien language, until one young researcher had an idea to simply send recovered data, to let them know something strange happened (will happen?) here. Their reactions were predictably same confused. And it just postpone a difficult question, whether or not to tell them full truth, therefore try to warn them. Prof. Charles de Montaignac, whose decision mattered the most, eventually decided not to say anything, arguing, that mere fact seeing the ship destroyed means that ship would be destroyed anyway. If they won't say anything now, it's just as inescapable fate as the option to warn them, which would led to same fate. This way of thinking, postulated later for 'Universal Temporal Theory', was not accepted immediately. This changed only after few more such encounters, when Humans tried one or another approach - with always the same result. Nothing ever changed, whatever decision was made, because it already happened, and every attempt to prevent it therefore must inevitably lead to same outcome.
By the same time, the political circles on Berlin had to make only more difficult decisions than scientists on survey ships. The ones affecting the entirety of the Empire, and the Kaiser himself needed to hear many different views on what's happening now. The robotic vessels of self-designed 'Ancient Caretakers' were sent deeply into Human space, starting with 'inoculation request', while at the same time entering the atmosphere of each Human world. Only through use of militarist discipline and caution, there was no widespread panic on any planet and Empire's leadership had to make a decision. Almost half of the Admirals and planetary Governors urged to reject the 'request of insane machines', but other half advised more Realpolitik approach: while they are 'insane machines', evidence suggests it's not wise to anger them and few volunteers who did let themselves inoculate already, show no negative symptoms. Even the Kaiser Friedrich, who draw 'Humanity First' as a main imperial dogma, had to accept such reasoning.
It was not the first occasion, when Kaiser himself was unsure of chosen approach. Reports about Malta colony, though, were beyond unusual. Humans, of course, discovered early the existence of hundreds of kilometers long caverns, connected with many canyons and mountainous areas on the planet. Only the brief research was conducted, however, before first colonists from Berlin arrived in greater numbers, and then other priorities took place. Before local authorities managed to take a closer look to disturbing planetary scans, seismic activity and strange energy readings underground, group of hunters and cavers found the truth: entire alien civilization living under surface.
Malta's landscape was filled with seemingly unending numbers of canyons and mesas, surpassing everything known on Earth.
These daring explorers were followed by a recon teams, acting with utmost wariness, under orders to find as much as possible intel on the underground aliens. Undetected, they gathered informations about local government, some examples of propaganda and living specimen. In the end, these activities could be no longer conducted in secret and recon teams had to be withdrawn to eliminate risk of capture. By that time, aliens were aware of their presence, anyway. Before they were able to muster any kind of resistance or diplomatic approach, they were eliminated.
Before anyone later could judge the Kaiser's decision, it was always considered necessary to know the context. The thorough reports told him this much: ruled by despotic monarch, the civilization was extremely territorial and aggressive. Before their unification, it basically consisted of bloothirsty tribes of savages, attacking each other over every larger cavern and tunnel entrance. Every strategic prediction ended with all-out planetary conflict, with subterraneans able to perhaps hit any surface target, which would require large military presence on the colony with every major offensive. Another option was complete evacuation of Malta. Both options were unacceptable, therefore, pre-emptive strike had to be unleashed.
But the imperial efforts to ensure survival and growth of Human race were beyond 'simple' colonization efforts: various biospheres revealed the fragility of Human lives. Low or high pressure atmospheres, levels of oxygen different on each planet, different gravitation, bacteria and viruses had to solved each time on each planet. Boosting natural endurance could go only so far, without any kind of more extensive 'intervention'.
Entrance to one of many genetic laboratories of Berlin. Once unthinkable, now an official state effort to strengthen the Human race.
After this realization became obvious, only one path was an option, though: augmentation of Human bodies through bio-engineering. Subdermal implants had potential as well, but any kind of full-scale cybernetic enhancement was rejected. The never lifted ban imposed on AI research and another limits imposed on robotic engineering affected this kind of research too much by that time.
The inoculations given by Ancient Caretakers boosted Human bio-engineering research so much, that even local state facilities or private enterprises on the colonies were able to develop a ways how to quickly improve Human genetic code. The easiest way was seemingly the use of retrovirus, as it is able to insert a copy of it's genome into the DNA of the host cell, that it invades, therefore changing the genome of that cell. However, unwanted mutations could occur, so it had to be done in controlled environment, preferably in medical stasis. Luckily, there was no record whatsoever, that any serious or widespread incident happened during all years of such experiments.
The Togoland Affair was different kind of emergency, and led to both state-regulated gene therapy for all imperial Human subjects and ban on private genetic research at the same time. With the few other consequences for the population of the colony.
It wasn't too hard to deduce the cause of entire problem: the so called 'Ultra-Humans' were basically planetary elites rich and powerful enough to afford development and introduction of gene therapy for themselves and their families, with wealthy businessmen trying to elevate their status on a par with soldiers and aristocrats. As anyone could guess, this went into all kinds of bad with everyone involved. Planetary governor saw it only as a nuisance, then sedition and only afterwards, as dangerous rebellion against imperial rule, which he solved in expected, heavy-handed way.
In a matter of months, eugenic conflicts spread all over human colony, accompanied with terrorist attacks and banditry.
With more reprisals coming and further escalation of the conflict being inevitable, it was the last straw for the imperial administration, especially for Kaiser Friedrich, who requested visit from Ultra-Human representative, Anton Creutzfeldt, who was surprised to see the Kaiser smiling, when he entered his office. His own disconcerted smile dissapeared, when most of the oxygen left the room, just enough for him to struggle for breath in great agony. Friedrich von Sternberg, still smiling, and without any gasmask, revealed him, that soon, all Humans will have no problem to survive almost any environment, along with many genetic advantages, which of course, he had to try first. Ultra-Human children, though, are now being conscripted as future imperial Marines, while their parents, like Creutzfeldt, will be now all sent to prison planets for betrayal of Mankind.
Unfortunately, not everyone saw reason and understood the Kaiser's wisdom in such matters. Sometimes, just folly of bygone alien generations were necessary to seed doubt into Human minds. Radioactive wasteland of Moskau, a challenge itself for the colonists and imperial administrators, convinced some of the morally weaker Humans to doubt the Empire's dedication to peace and stability through appropriate use of force. Instead, they turned to obsolete pacifist ideas, proved wrong again and again in every World War, but persisting to plague libraries to this day.
Surely the irradiated landscape was disturbing - but also a further indication how Humanity's well-earned place in the Galaxy is enviable already. So many races destroyed themselves, that it was possible to create another influential scientific theory, 'Atomic Age Paradox', in short, that every species must reach technological level to produce fission power for whatever purpose, with very high probability of self-destruction in atomic war or due massive nuclear catastrophes from poorly maintained power plants. And yet, this phase was so far proved as absolutely necessary to reach another goal, interstellar travel, with at least sublight drives.
The planet Moskau was full of ruins of civilization which destroyed itself very shortly after discovery of nuclear power, in a decades long conflict.
SMS Konstantin Ziolkowski. Log 5144.8545. Captain's note: Transfer of W274 IV's expedition to SMS Fledermaus
[door opening]
"I hope all the accomodations in previous days were adequate, after such unpleasant experience, doctor."
[coughing]
"Are you all right?"
"Yes, thank you. It must be that literal change of air. I wasn't used to recycled atmosphere of starship for a long time."
"Although, some of my colleagues remains surprised by rather...rash decision to left the planet, after we found you."
[fake ironic laughter]
"I suppose they would be less surprised, if they stayed at the same place alone for a years. Like me. Trust me, there wasn't more to explore."
[sigh]
"But I must thank you again, professor, for so much understanding. It was really important for me to find someone who...thinks alike. Let me to shake your hand one last time. Until we meet again."
[soft ripping sound]
"I...yes...until we...meet again."
[minute of silence]
"We should go. The docking of Fledermaus is probably finished by now."
"Of course. Lead the way, professor."
[two minutes of walking]
[airlock opening]
"Ah, Oberst Strasser. What are you..."
[gunshot]
"Quiet. Don't move."
[cracking sounds]
[multiple gunshots]
"Herr Oberst. It's in him, too."
"What are you talking about?"
"Sorry professor. Orders from Berlin."
[gunshot]
"Scan the crew. We can let anything escape the ship."
[marines running and shouting orders]
"Turn that damn thing off."
[gunshot]
[static sounds]
Puzzled by suspicious person of 'Exile' from the start, both medical officer and ship's captain alerted the Reichsflotte to investigate the outpost despite the chief scientist's order. After a thorough search, desiccated bodies were found underneath.
Never quite a public knowledge, but later a public secret amongst the Human scientific community, W274 Incident became the very clear and disturbingly specific warning for too eager researchers. The thing which murdered the staff of the research outpost was captured only through use of cunning and bravery of the ship Tsiolkovsky's crew. Apparently, the parasitic lifeform was able to gradually take control of body on cellular level and then replaced victim's mind with it's own, at the cost of memories of course. This probably alarmed the people in the outpost and caused the lifeform to act: most of them were stabbed or choked with no signs of struggle, which indicated they were murdered one by one, probably too familiar with murderer's face.
Compared to this gruesome experience, so called 'Teachings of Warriors' were much more brighter example of newfound knowledge about surrounding universe. With the some sort of universal martial text referenced by vicious Provalguvor raiders on numerous occasions before, planet 15 Leonis III contained the oldest found copy. A paper copy, in addition. But this was not revealed until the dead alien language was deciphered. Like the few of the previous findings of old galactic literature, the text was attributed to mysterious writer known a 'Telisa', which could be a pseudonym. Soon, it became part of standard imperial education, to show Human children how much their Empire is shaped by natural state of the universe, always full of struggle for survival. It clearly showed, that peace is not natural state of the universe, only the reward which must be earned first, guarded and defended vigorously.
So called 'L-Gates' were another breathtaking discovery in the Human space, which will take entire generations to unlock it's secrets, with a lot of archeotech research and support from not much overjoyed Curators, unsure, what may happen next. Their fears were unfounded, however, since the Empire, surrounded with many potential enemies, and after few unpleasant discoveries so far, was in no hurry to find out what may exist on the other side.
Instead, Human scientists focused on rifts again, with more promising results and with little resources and time spent. Particularly, the unstable rift found by SMS Ludwig Leichhardt produced a lot of useful data - until this discovery, the spatial rifts were considered as one-way ruptures in space and time, exactly like the one used by Human colonists from Chrysanthemum ark ship.
Observation of the rift revealed further data: nature of the each rift is absolutely unique and somewhat susceptible or more precisely - predisposed - for unpredictable changes for whatever reason. Every attempt to actually stabilize the thing was done in vain, as if something inside actively created countermeasures against it. When ship's emitters tried to affect it with various kind of particles or radiation, or even detonated neutron bomb at it's entrance, the rift changed back to it's previous characteristics. Or changed completely, so the science crew had to start anew.
Oddly enough, this was not the strangest discovery of Human physics, for so much generations limited by their homeworld, first on Earth, then Berlin and the limited technology to break boundaries of space and time. Now, they could observe the practical impossibility to ever fully understand the universe. Just after the so called 'Self-preserving Rift Theory' was proposed, bigger challenge revealed itself in front of Ludwig Leichhardt's science crew.
Anything related to time travel was, until recently, a domain of popular fiction, not an academic circles. But now, right in front of their eyes, lied the fact of two identical ships of same origin, but different timeline, most likely caused by gravitational interference of the pulsar. Another explanation was also contemplated, that before pulsar was formed, the destruction of former star somehow damaged fabric of time and space locally. Which would explain the higher concentration of rifts in surrounding systems.
Initial communication progressed slowly, at first, due to difficulties with understanding of alien language, until one young researcher had an idea to simply send recovered data, to let them know something strange happened (will happen?) here. Their reactions were predictably same confused. And it just postpone a difficult question, whether or not to tell them full truth, therefore try to warn them. Prof. Charles de Montaignac, whose decision mattered the most, eventually decided not to say anything, arguing, that mere fact seeing the ship destroyed means that ship would be destroyed anyway. If they won't say anything now, it's just as inescapable fate as the option to warn them, which would led to same fate. This way of thinking, postulated later for 'Universal Temporal Theory', was not accepted immediately. This changed only after few more such encounters, when Humans tried one or another approach - with always the same result. Nothing ever changed, whatever decision was made, because it already happened, and every attempt to prevent it therefore must inevitably lead to same outcome.
By the same time, the political circles on Berlin had to make only more difficult decisions than scientists on survey ships. The ones affecting the entirety of the Empire, and the Kaiser himself needed to hear many different views on what's happening now. The robotic vessels of self-designed 'Ancient Caretakers' were sent deeply into Human space, starting with 'inoculation request', while at the same time entering the atmosphere of each Human world. Only through use of militarist discipline and caution, there was no widespread panic on any planet and Empire's leadership had to make a decision. Almost half of the Admirals and planetary Governors urged to reject the 'request of insane machines', but other half advised more Realpolitik approach: while they are 'insane machines', evidence suggests it's not wise to anger them and few volunteers who did let themselves inoculate already, show no negative symptoms. Even the Kaiser Friedrich, who draw 'Humanity First' as a main imperial dogma, had to accept such reasoning.
It was not the first occasion, when Kaiser himself was unsure of chosen approach. Reports about Malta colony, though, were beyond unusual. Humans, of course, discovered early the existence of hundreds of kilometers long caverns, connected with many canyons and mountainous areas on the planet. Only the brief research was conducted, however, before first colonists from Berlin arrived in greater numbers, and then other priorities took place. Before local authorities managed to take a closer look to disturbing planetary scans, seismic activity and strange energy readings underground, group of hunters and cavers found the truth: entire alien civilization living under surface.
Malta's landscape was filled with seemingly unending numbers of canyons and mesas, surpassing everything known on Earth.
These daring explorers were followed by a recon teams, acting with utmost wariness, under orders to find as much as possible intel on the underground aliens. Undetected, they gathered informations about local government, some examples of propaganda and living specimen. In the end, these activities could be no longer conducted in secret and recon teams had to be withdrawn to eliminate risk of capture. By that time, aliens were aware of their presence, anyway. Before they were able to muster any kind of resistance or diplomatic approach, they were eliminated.
Before anyone later could judge the Kaiser's decision, it was always considered necessary to know the context. The thorough reports told him this much: ruled by despotic monarch, the civilization was extremely territorial and aggressive. Before their unification, it basically consisted of bloothirsty tribes of savages, attacking each other over every larger cavern and tunnel entrance. Every strategic prediction ended with all-out planetary conflict, with subterraneans able to perhaps hit any surface target, which would require large military presence on the colony with every major offensive. Another option was complete evacuation of Malta. Both options were unacceptable, therefore, pre-emptive strike had to be unleashed.
But the imperial efforts to ensure survival and growth of Human race were beyond 'simple' colonization efforts: various biospheres revealed the fragility of Human lives. Low or high pressure atmospheres, levels of oxygen different on each planet, different gravitation, bacteria and viruses had to solved each time on each planet. Boosting natural endurance could go only so far, without any kind of more extensive 'intervention'.
Entrance to one of many genetic laboratories of Berlin. Once unthinkable, now an official state effort to strengthen the Human race.
After this realization became obvious, only one path was an option, though: augmentation of Human bodies through bio-engineering. Subdermal implants had potential as well, but any kind of full-scale cybernetic enhancement was rejected. The never lifted ban imposed on AI research and another limits imposed on robotic engineering affected this kind of research too much by that time.
The inoculations given by Ancient Caretakers boosted Human bio-engineering research so much, that even local state facilities or private enterprises on the colonies were able to develop a ways how to quickly improve Human genetic code. The easiest way was seemingly the use of retrovirus, as it is able to insert a copy of it's genome into the DNA of the host cell, that it invades, therefore changing the genome of that cell. However, unwanted mutations could occur, so it had to be done in controlled environment, preferably in medical stasis. Luckily, there was no record whatsoever, that any serious or widespread incident happened during all years of such experiments.
The Togoland Affair was different kind of emergency, and led to both state-regulated gene therapy for all imperial Human subjects and ban on private genetic research at the same time. With the few other consequences for the population of the colony.
It wasn't too hard to deduce the cause of entire problem: the so called 'Ultra-Humans' were basically planetary elites rich and powerful enough to afford development and introduction of gene therapy for themselves and their families, with wealthy businessmen trying to elevate their status on a par with soldiers and aristocrats. As anyone could guess, this went into all kinds of bad with everyone involved. Planetary governor saw it only as a nuisance, then sedition and only afterwards, as dangerous rebellion against imperial rule, which he solved in expected, heavy-handed way.
In a matter of months, eugenic conflicts spread all over human colony, accompanied with terrorist attacks and banditry.
With more reprisals coming and further escalation of the conflict being inevitable, it was the last straw for the imperial administration, especially for Kaiser Friedrich, who requested visit from Ultra-Human representative, Anton Creutzfeldt, who was surprised to see the Kaiser smiling, when he entered his office. His own disconcerted smile dissapeared, when most of the oxygen left the room, just enough for him to struggle for breath in great agony. Friedrich von Sternberg, still smiling, and without any gasmask, revealed him, that soon, all Humans will have no problem to survive almost any environment, along with many genetic advantages, which of course, he had to try first. Ultra-Human children, though, are now being conscripted as future imperial Marines, while their parents, like Creutzfeldt, will be now all sent to prison planets for betrayal of Mankind.
Unfortunately, not everyone saw reason and understood the Kaiser's wisdom in such matters. Sometimes, just folly of bygone alien generations were necessary to seed doubt into Human minds. Radioactive wasteland of Moskau, a challenge itself for the colonists and imperial administrators, convinced some of the morally weaker Humans to doubt the Empire's dedication to peace and stability through appropriate use of force. Instead, they turned to obsolete pacifist ideas, proved wrong again and again in every World War, but persisting to plague libraries to this day.
Surely the irradiated landscape was disturbing - but also a further indication how Humanity's well-earned place in the Galaxy is enviable already. So many races destroyed themselves, that it was possible to create another influential scientific theory, 'Atomic Age Paradox', in short, that every species must reach technological level to produce fission power for whatever purpose, with very high probability of self-destruction in atomic war or due massive nuclear catastrophes from poorly maintained power plants. And yet, this phase was so far proved as absolutely necessary to reach another goal, interstellar travel, with at least sublight drives.
The planet Moskau was full of ruins of civilization which destroyed itself very shortly after discovery of nuclear power, in a decades long conflict.
Could you give us an update on your progress on the imperial Japanese campaign in the year 2000?
Or is it dead?
Or is it dead?
Simple chain of command. And Kaiser answers only to God.
pacifism?
yeah, silly pazis
Probably dead. Almost no time for aars these days, so free modding time is even less likely.
Surrounded by death and decay, i hope their path to pacifism isn't the foolish one where even when threatened they refuse to defend themselves. If they are that kind then the Kaiser needs to be made aware of this....sedition(?)
This is no tyranny. Other opinions are allowed, as long as they do not question military - or Humanity's benevolent, natural and kind superiority above all others
As it should be.as long as they do not question military - or Humanity's benevolent, natural and kind superiority above all others
( Come on you haped us up with this video you know that this is not going to go away )
Honestly, I am not playing Darkest Hour anymore. I may return to it, but so far, I fell deep into Stellaris this year (and two or three vintage 90' games).
besides, i want to restart Platz under Sonne first
besides, i want to restart Platz under Sonne first
Annexation of Maweer
By the end of 23rd century, the Galactic Empire found it's limits of expansion. The already formidable Reichsflotte was stronger every day, but Human space now bordered ancient and powerful civilizations, raiders and unscrupulous corporations. In addition, strategic Preussen system contained stable wormhole leading to distant part of galaxy threatened by aggressive Sirgogg Horde, so the military spending only skyrocketed and consumed every additional source. Trade treaties and further deals had to be established even with criminals and misguided 'democratic' regimes to keep the pace of shipyard production and ever growing planetary defenses. So far, any direct confrontation with another alien power was avoided, however.
Berlin, city of Kaiserstadt, 2290. By that time, an entire planet became one large fortified military-industrial complex guarded by it's own dedicated fleet.
First interstellar conflict was therefore only natural conclusion to many newly appeared questions, summarized into one: is the Empire ready to protect the future of Human race? The invaluable new sources of raw materials were just as important as battle experience to gain in the moment. Some also felt that only spreading own culture to alien worlds may transform survivalist colonial society into genuine imperial state, just like old German Empire did spread it's direct rule to all parts of the Earth. The Kaiser was wary of greater alien influence, personally, but recognized the risks of possibly growing isolationism, which could only lead to weakness and corruption. The Giants of Regensburg proved to be a valuable allies, who will save many Human lives in the future, even enigmatic ancient robots from lost ages proved to be more than useful. Clearly, the calculated risks brought results, which in this case led to a 'The 3/4 Principle' honored by all the future Kaisers: Human 3/4 majority rule must never be threatened, while the alien subjects will be generously protected as the assets, not burden. That being said, value of 'foreign subjects', as called officially, was now weighted just as same as value of every Human: contribution to the well-being of the Empire.
From that point, the Galactic Empire was known as a strict, but safe realm to try find protection or business opportunities, despite all the difficulties. Truly, compared to systems ruled by criminal syndicates or slavers from less enlightened states, trade routes leading through Human space offered unparalled safety. Any attempts of smuggling or trafficking, however, meant one-way ticket to prison colonies, were aliens usually didn't live for long. Ironically, for much of the 23rd and 24th century, Humans were not seen as general threat by majority of galactic races, as they focused on internal development, terraforming and genetic enhancements. End of Maweer state or later First and Second Battle of Trinary Star were largely overlooked, as it did mostly affect Human affairs only.
Strangely enough, the most appreciated Human neighbour, from practical point of view, were the Provalguvor pirates, constantly helping the naval crews to properly train in combat. In fact, for a few generations, the traditional last test for fighter pilots was destroyed pirate ship, usually in a team: sometimes, individuals had to survive there as a form of punishment, if they wanted to remain in the Reichflotte after some disciplinary misdemeanour. This was not only useful, but necessary activity: violence was the only thing these races of space savages understood. When this was unsufficient, some food transports were sent, to leave them under impression of Humans being polite and respectful tributaries. Development of cruisers and battleships couldn´t be rushed.
With the smaller warships in acceptable state and numbers, however, several other options existed where to spread imperial order in the Galaxy first. But the Maweer were the ideal target: completely isolated between powerful pirates and Humans, inhabiting only one world: the Garden. Their homeworld. Presumed to be a galactic paradise, a botanist jewel. Kaiser Friedrich urged his officers to treat enemy with honor and dignity, because legacy of the first war in the stars will define the next age of Human civilization. They are here to bring order to the Galaxy, not to cause unnecessary slaughter. It would be a shame to damage a perfectly habitable world or mining facilities.
The 1st and 2nd Fleets were amassed on borders for weeks, without any reaction from the soon-to-be enemy. After the plainly delivered declaration of war, the officers of both fleets were puzzled by numerous requests to confirm the declaration. After the fall of their border fortress, flagships still received confused messages from the plantoid enemies, as if they had troubles to understood basic concept of conquest. Only much later, the xenologists and diplomats alike confirmed, that 'Caretakers' were under firm impression that inaction can't provoke any violent action. They were not disarmed species, of course, none spacefaring race would be that insane, but the one with absolute lack of any concept of war beyond basic self-defense.
So, the Maweer relied on heavily defended strongpoints, impossible to quickly overrun or avoid, built in most strategically important systems. Their primary purpose was to discourage the enemy to attack at all or exhaust it's forces to the point, that Maweer fleet will be able to pursue and destroy them in detail. Main problem with this plan was just too obvious: the plantoid race made 'war plans' rather against themselves. Not against Humans or anyone else. Therefore, the 1st and 2nd Fleet overwhelmed their defenses too quickly.
When the Human soldiers entered the space station, they couldn't find their inhabitants, at first. Aside from the ones saved in escape pods, it seemed like everyone left. Which was a mystery, because the station continued to fire until it's power banks were depleted or it's intact sections were boarded by the marines. Soon, they realized that all crew members are actually still there: the 'trees' in the central dome, perceived to be part of botanical garden or a park, were an actual crew members, connected with the station's systems using the interface connecting with their roots. Not all members of this race felt the necessity to develop walking ability or shapeshifting.
Atypically large habitable parts of the station, spared by the combat, nevertheless showed a Maweer obsession with preservation efforts in every way imaginable.
As soon as the supposedly fast defenders finally assembled to face the Human threat, they were unexpectedly attacked in, what they called 'Pathabaan system', containing a Black Hole. Which, of course, affected their hyperdrives, while being under heavy fire from the reinforced 1st Fleet, with the 2nd in reserve. Human ships quickly gained upper hand with their better armaments and with repeated pincer attack, enemy fleet almost entirely ceased to exist.
At the cost of just one corvette, the 1st Fleet eliminated 25 enemy warships and heavily damaged the rest. Not a bad performance, it was thought at the time. Before the Sirgogg invasion.
The enemy continued to show more actual confusion than anger. Nicknamed 'Tannenbaums' due to their tall tree figures, they expected to be killed upon capture and were almost shocked when they received mineral water and both organic and anorganic food supplements. Exactly what they needed, including higher humidity and intense lights. Then, they were usually asked to say who's speaking for each group, to solve possible complaints or general issues. With typically very formal and polite mannerisms, for which Humans were already known.
Now there was time for the last phase of war plan: to take Maweer homeworld as quickly as possible.
The Maweer fought to the last branch. Driven to the corner by attackers, being the only thing between them and their homeworld, the remnants of their forces had their last stand here.
After the annihilation of the warships, starbases and satellites, the Garden was ripe for the taking. 1st and 2nd Fleets started the full blockade of the planet and waited for transport ships to pacify the planet. Most their land forces were destroyed during previous skirmishes, so the Human forces didn't have to worry much about it.
The Human marines under fire from automatic defense systems and mechwarriors.
Planetary invasion could have been disaster, due to lack of intelligence reports about any military targets, but preliminary scans of planetary surface, same as few cut-and-try orbital strikes showed the non-existence of any larger fortifications. Therefore, only few small Human units were deployed to secure the landing areas for much larger invasion force: the Giants of Regensburg. Still difficult to discuss anything with them, but Gen. von Wrangel managed to reach basic understanding about main objectives: elimination of surface defenses with minimal losses. The Giants stoically walked over or through everything they noticed as a threat, seemingly ignorant of every attempt to hurt them, even from heavy ordnance and energy weapons.
The scene from day of surrender became one of the most notorious about the first imperial conflicts. That day, Klara von Wrangel, accompanied by her marines, entered the 'Root Circle', an ancient place of governance and wisdom for the Maweer, in the middle of the massive jungle area. The Humans appeared here as much alien as possible: in decorated uniforms and combat armors, singing "Heil dir im Siegerkranz", their presence didn't exactly blended with the place. They didn't know yet, that they are called 'Fire People' and planetary population feels little beyond the despair from fear of extinction and surely coming devastation. Instead, the General accepted the verbal surrender of their ruling council, which consisted of different castes and clans, apparently, and then welcomed the sentient plants into the Empire. Blue and yellow fireworks fired from warships decorated the aquamarine skies of Garden and illuminated the views of conquered people.
The Garden, Maweer homeworld.
The Empire was now positioned right between two galatic zones under control of pirate races and gained direct access to ancient Curator and Artisan space stations. There was also another reservation for primitive sentient species in 2 Epsilon Aquarii system, a pristine, small Gaia moon orbiting gas giant. These additions gave Humans much needed prestige amongst the other galactic powers and brought attention of the Sirgogg, pilaging planets on the other side of the Galaxy.
By the end of 23rd century, the Galactic Empire found it's limits of expansion. The already formidable Reichsflotte was stronger every day, but Human space now bordered ancient and powerful civilizations, raiders and unscrupulous corporations. In addition, strategic Preussen system contained stable wormhole leading to distant part of galaxy threatened by aggressive Sirgogg Horde, so the military spending only skyrocketed and consumed every additional source. Trade treaties and further deals had to be established even with criminals and misguided 'democratic' regimes to keep the pace of shipyard production and ever growing planetary defenses. So far, any direct confrontation with another alien power was avoided, however.
Berlin, city of Kaiserstadt, 2290. By that time, an entire planet became one large fortified military-industrial complex guarded by it's own dedicated fleet.
First interstellar conflict was therefore only natural conclusion to many newly appeared questions, summarized into one: is the Empire ready to protect the future of Human race? The invaluable new sources of raw materials were just as important as battle experience to gain in the moment. Some also felt that only spreading own culture to alien worlds may transform survivalist colonial society into genuine imperial state, just like old German Empire did spread it's direct rule to all parts of the Earth. The Kaiser was wary of greater alien influence, personally, but recognized the risks of possibly growing isolationism, which could only lead to weakness and corruption. The Giants of Regensburg proved to be a valuable allies, who will save many Human lives in the future, even enigmatic ancient robots from lost ages proved to be more than useful. Clearly, the calculated risks brought results, which in this case led to a 'The 3/4 Principle' honored by all the future Kaisers: Human 3/4 majority rule must never be threatened, while the alien subjects will be generously protected as the assets, not burden. That being said, value of 'foreign subjects', as called officially, was now weighted just as same as value of every Human: contribution to the well-being of the Empire.
From that point, the Galactic Empire was known as a strict, but safe realm to try find protection or business opportunities, despite all the difficulties. Truly, compared to systems ruled by criminal syndicates or slavers from less enlightened states, trade routes leading through Human space offered unparalled safety. Any attempts of smuggling or trafficking, however, meant one-way ticket to prison colonies, were aliens usually didn't live for long. Ironically, for much of the 23rd and 24th century, Humans were not seen as general threat by majority of galactic races, as they focused on internal development, terraforming and genetic enhancements. End of Maweer state or later First and Second Battle of Trinary Star were largely overlooked, as it did mostly affect Human affairs only.
Strangely enough, the most appreciated Human neighbour, from practical point of view, were the Provalguvor pirates, constantly helping the naval crews to properly train in combat. In fact, for a few generations, the traditional last test for fighter pilots was destroyed pirate ship, usually in a team: sometimes, individuals had to survive there as a form of punishment, if they wanted to remain in the Reichflotte after some disciplinary misdemeanour. This was not only useful, but necessary activity: violence was the only thing these races of space savages understood. When this was unsufficient, some food transports were sent, to leave them under impression of Humans being polite and respectful tributaries. Development of cruisers and battleships couldn´t be rushed.
With the smaller warships in acceptable state and numbers, however, several other options existed where to spread imperial order in the Galaxy first. But the Maweer were the ideal target: completely isolated between powerful pirates and Humans, inhabiting only one world: the Garden. Their homeworld. Presumed to be a galactic paradise, a botanist jewel. Kaiser Friedrich urged his officers to treat enemy with honor and dignity, because legacy of the first war in the stars will define the next age of Human civilization. They are here to bring order to the Galaxy, not to cause unnecessary slaughter. It would be a shame to damage a perfectly habitable world or mining facilities.
The 1st and 2nd Fleets were amassed on borders for weeks, without any reaction from the soon-to-be enemy. After the plainly delivered declaration of war, the officers of both fleets were puzzled by numerous requests to confirm the declaration. After the fall of their border fortress, flagships still received confused messages from the plantoid enemies, as if they had troubles to understood basic concept of conquest. Only much later, the xenologists and diplomats alike confirmed, that 'Caretakers' were under firm impression that inaction can't provoke any violent action. They were not disarmed species, of course, none spacefaring race would be that insane, but the one with absolute lack of any concept of war beyond basic self-defense.
So, the Maweer relied on heavily defended strongpoints, impossible to quickly overrun or avoid, built in most strategically important systems. Their primary purpose was to discourage the enemy to attack at all or exhaust it's forces to the point, that Maweer fleet will be able to pursue and destroy them in detail. Main problem with this plan was just too obvious: the plantoid race made 'war plans' rather against themselves. Not against Humans or anyone else. Therefore, the 1st and 2nd Fleet overwhelmed their defenses too quickly.
When the Human soldiers entered the space station, they couldn't find their inhabitants, at first. Aside from the ones saved in escape pods, it seemed like everyone left. Which was a mystery, because the station continued to fire until it's power banks were depleted or it's intact sections were boarded by the marines. Soon, they realized that all crew members are actually still there: the 'trees' in the central dome, perceived to be part of botanical garden or a park, were an actual crew members, connected with the station's systems using the interface connecting with their roots. Not all members of this race felt the necessity to develop walking ability or shapeshifting.
Atypically large habitable parts of the station, spared by the combat, nevertheless showed a Maweer obsession with preservation efforts in every way imaginable.
As soon as the supposedly fast defenders finally assembled to face the Human threat, they were unexpectedly attacked in, what they called 'Pathabaan system', containing a Black Hole. Which, of course, affected their hyperdrives, while being under heavy fire from the reinforced 1st Fleet, with the 2nd in reserve. Human ships quickly gained upper hand with their better armaments and with repeated pincer attack, enemy fleet almost entirely ceased to exist.
At the cost of just one corvette, the 1st Fleet eliminated 25 enemy warships and heavily damaged the rest. Not a bad performance, it was thought at the time. Before the Sirgogg invasion.
The enemy continued to show more actual confusion than anger. Nicknamed 'Tannenbaums' due to their tall tree figures, they expected to be killed upon capture and were almost shocked when they received mineral water and both organic and anorganic food supplements. Exactly what they needed, including higher humidity and intense lights. Then, they were usually asked to say who's speaking for each group, to solve possible complaints or general issues. With typically very formal and polite mannerisms, for which Humans were already known.
Now there was time for the last phase of war plan: to take Maweer homeworld as quickly as possible.
The Maweer fought to the last branch. Driven to the corner by attackers, being the only thing between them and their homeworld, the remnants of their forces had their last stand here.
After the annihilation of the warships, starbases and satellites, the Garden was ripe for the taking. 1st and 2nd Fleets started the full blockade of the planet and waited for transport ships to pacify the planet. Most their land forces were destroyed during previous skirmishes, so the Human forces didn't have to worry much about it.
The Human marines under fire from automatic defense systems and mechwarriors.
Planetary invasion could have been disaster, due to lack of intelligence reports about any military targets, but preliminary scans of planetary surface, same as few cut-and-try orbital strikes showed the non-existence of any larger fortifications. Therefore, only few small Human units were deployed to secure the landing areas for much larger invasion force: the Giants of Regensburg. Still difficult to discuss anything with them, but Gen. von Wrangel managed to reach basic understanding about main objectives: elimination of surface defenses with minimal losses. The Giants stoically walked over or through everything they noticed as a threat, seemingly ignorant of every attempt to hurt them, even from heavy ordnance and energy weapons.
The scene from day of surrender became one of the most notorious about the first imperial conflicts. That day, Klara von Wrangel, accompanied by her marines, entered the 'Root Circle', an ancient place of governance and wisdom for the Maweer, in the middle of the massive jungle area. The Humans appeared here as much alien as possible: in decorated uniforms and combat armors, singing "Heil dir im Siegerkranz", their presence didn't exactly blended with the place. They didn't know yet, that they are called 'Fire People' and planetary population feels little beyond the despair from fear of extinction and surely coming devastation. Instead, the General accepted the verbal surrender of their ruling council, which consisted of different castes and clans, apparently, and then welcomed the sentient plants into the Empire. Blue and yellow fireworks fired from warships decorated the aquamarine skies of Garden and illuminated the views of conquered people.
The Garden, Maweer homeworld.
The Empire was now positioned right between two galatic zones under control of pirate races and gained direct access to ancient Curator and Artisan space stations. There was also another reservation for primitive sentient species in 2 Epsilon Aquarii system, a pristine, small Gaia moon orbiting gas giant. These additions gave Humans much needed prestige amongst the other galactic powers and brought attention of the Sirgogg, pilaging planets on the other side of the Galaxy.
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I believe the gardeners are going to be suffering from a rather extreme version of culture shock ...
This was a really one-sided war. I almost feel bad saying the Maweer got "stomped" by their enemies... almost. I am a Human after all, gotta cheer on my own team! Go Humans!
As long as they will remain docile trees, they have nothing to worry about.
True, ecology is not really first, second, third or seventh concern.
This was a really one-sided war. I almost feel bad saying the Maweer got "stomped" by their enemies... almost. I am a Human after all, gotta cheer on my own team! Go Humans!
I bet some trees got it right immediately and welcomed their new mammalian overlords.