ECHOES OF THE PAST

CHAPTER 6: ECHOES OF THE PAST

Chancellor Thiurate stood on the balcony overlooking Courosaunt, the city lights a dizzying tapestry beneath him. The senate's decision still echoed in his mind. Annihilate the enemy. It was a brutal declaration, yet one that resonated with the fear and anger of a people under siege. He'd pushed for it, yes, but the weight of the coming slaughter pressed on him.

A soft chime announced a visitor. "Enter," he said, turning from the panoramic view.

General Arcan stepped in, his face etched with fatigue. "Chancellor," he began, "intelligence reports indicate a significant USOF build-up near the former Centauri system. It appears Lord Dreius is consolidating his forces."

Thiurate nodded. "He's predictable. He'll want to finish what Trench started, to wipe out the memory of his defeat. But he won't expect us to hit him where he thinks he's safest." He walked to a holographic star map, a blue projection of the galaxy shimmering to life. "Our new clone production will take time. But we have an advantage they don't expect." He tapped a star system, a small, isolated cluster lighting up. "The Shadow Sector. It's rumored to contain ancient Asson relics. More importantly, it holds a cloaked repair station – small, but vital. It's how we've kept so many of our older vessels battle-ready. USOF intelligence couldn't find it."

Arcan's brow furrowed. "Are you suggesting a feint, sir? Or a direct assault on Dreius himself?"

"Neither," Thiurate said, a glint in his eye. "We are going to find a weapon. A legend whispered amongst our oldest historians. They call it... The Catalyst."

Arcan's eyes widened. "But, my Liege, that's just a myth! A story to frighten rebellious children!"

"Is it?" Thiurate countered. "Our scouts have detected unusual energy readings in a sector adjacent to the repair station. Readings that don't match any known technology. If it exists, and if we can control it... this war will end, one way or another." He paused, his gaze hardening. "Prepare a small, elite fleet. We need the fastest ships, the most skilled pilots. You will lead this expedition, General. Your Nights will accompany you."

Arcan straightened, the fatigue momentarily forgotten. "Consider it done, Chancellor."