On the Wings of the Heron

Location: Intaki System
Sovereignty: Caldari State
Region: Placid

"HKS Discovery, welcome to Intaki V, you are cleared to Laissonne Space Port, enjoy your stay!", a voice with an obvious Gallentean accent spoke, the traffic controller clearing the small Heron Frigate to it's destination. The vessel bearing the logo of the Ishukone Corporation glided down into the lower atmosphere and across the rain forest covered mountains, it's engines slowly reducing power. Turning on her on board cameras Keirra smiled at the sight of the landscape. Lush forests, waterfalls, lakes, small quiet settlements and rich wildlife, her sensors had gone wild with the life sign readings.

Twisting in her bio-gel filled pod she focused her attention on a thundering waterfall to her port side, rainbows forming from the droplets of water and the sun's warm rays. The grey metallic armour plates of the Heron reflected the sunlight as well and any observer on the ground would see a glistening shape move across the skies. Ahead the first signs of civilization became obvious. Air-cars, shuttles, atmospheric transports flying over the resort of Laissonne, darting back and forth. Slowing down the Heron slowly used it's thrusters to flip backwards, it's main engines now pointing down. It's landing gear lowered and soon the small ship touched down on it's assigned landing pad.

Air was now pumped into the Capsule, the gel slowly emptied, Keirra's lungs taking a small time to adjust to breathing pure air. Stepping out of her pod the young woman unzipped the flight suit, letting it drop on both sides. Wearing only a sleeveless t-shirt she climbed down the ladder taking her to the Heron's access ramp and she stepped off, walking out of the vessel. A wave of warm humid air enveloped her once she stepped into the light of the Intaki sun. Stretching she looked at the ground crews, most of them Intaki, a single Gallente who had remained behind with a Caldari supervisor. They had connected fuel lines, Capacitor Recharge Units and secured the ship with docking clamps onto the pad.

A young woman approached, looking at Keirra up and down, still half dressed in her flight suit, sleeveless t-shirt, dog tags hanging at her neck, Tritanium arms, Ishukone made blaster dangling in it's thigh holster. This new face starting at the Heron's pilot, obviously Gallentean, smirked but quickly changed to a smile "Miss Lukkanen, I am Claudette Devereaux, from the travel agent... I did not not expect you to come with your own ship, we did send a shuttle....".

With a wave of her metallic hand the Caldari woman responded "I thank you for that but I am far more comfortable flying my own ship. I'm sure your shuttle will be back soon. Do you have a vehicle ready here or shall I rent one and report this lack of service to Ishukone Travel & Leisure?".

The Gallentean went pale. She had organized the whole vacation for the newly arrived Caldari woman and realized that a complaint to her manager could cost her the job."We prepared a Rondelle air-car for you madame......", it was all she could say.

Extending her hand toward the Gallentean, Keirra smiled "Keys please, also i'd like the key to my hotel room please. You can stay here and see that my belongings are unloaded and sent to the Clairmont, oui?". The last word was a subtle mocking Gallente word, which made the young travel agent employee sigh, obviously saddened by the treatment she was given. With a final note Keirra smiled once again "I'm sorry if your impression of me may be bad... I am truly sorry. Tell you what, call in your office and tell them I require your presence all day long. We'll hop on by the pool at the Clairmont, treats are on me Claudette".

Confused, the other woman smiled and nodded "Very well madame". She looked with wide eyes to this odd Civire woman as she stepped into the air-car and drove off, with complete disregard for traffic safeties. The metallic red car soon vanished from sight, mixing with the hundreds of others, on the Sky Way.  Turning around she looked at the Heron, curiosity getting the best of her. A small hand knocked on the Caldari ship's armour plating....., force once she was impressed.

Location: Intaki V, Laissonne Resort, Roden-Clairmont Hotel.

The metallic-red air-car slowly pulled on by the main entrance of the hotel, a valet quickly darting to the vehicle, opening the door for it's drive, watching the woman a little puzzled as she slipped a credit chip into his hand and winked. He could see the Neural Link implant jacks along the back of her neck... she was a capsuleer.

Sliding past the door-man and into the hotel's lobby Keirra stretched her arms, finally peace and quiet displaying on her face. Moving toward the front desk, her eyes darted all around, taking in the scenes. Besides the native Intaki, many of them employees she saw the odd Gallentean and along with them Caldari on vacation. A decent looking young Intaki employee approached her, moving to the registry terminal, "Welcome to the Roden-Clairmont madame, how can I help you?", he inquired quietly.

Gathering herself the Civire, nodded once "I have reservations made on the name Lukkanen, Keirra Lukkanen, paid in advance via ISK transfer".

The clerk began searching his database, and a mere few moments later responded with a smile "Ah yes, Miss Keirra Lukkanen, you have one of our Crystal suites reserved.". Tapping a few controls on his terminal he continued, "Your access card has been cleared to the suite, do you have any luggage with you or will it arrive later?".

Confirming his words, Keirra nodded, "My luggage will arrive shortly from the space port. If a miss Claudette Devereaux asks, please direct her to my room, she is my friend". Responding to the smile Keirra waited for the man to continue, if he should do so.

"Welcome Miss Lukkanen and enjoy your stay. Might I recommend our Mirage pool? And perhaps tonight the cabaret, they're highly popular. Also if you're not into the whole Cabaret thing there's always the pool party...", he spoke but with a quick 'thank you', Keirra stepped away from the desk, heading toward the glass elevators.

Location: Crystal Suite,Roden-Clairmont Hotel, Intaki V, Laissonne Resort.

Upon reaching the location of her suite, Keirra stepped off, stepping past a  couple of Gallentean maids who looked at her as if they'd never seen cybernetic arms before. Sliding the card into the reader the suite's doors opened slowly and she stepped inside. Trying to gather herself as she looked upon the luxury of the suite she sat down, sinking in an armchair. Around her crystal furniture, lighting, decorations sculpted from the same material and a lovely overview of the region with a clear sight to the pool and beach below... Never had she seen such things in her life, nothing in the Caldari State was like it.

Moving out toward the balcony she leaned against the railing, the warm Intaki blowing through her now loose hair. Content filled her for once as she was away from order, discipline and she could be herself. Sliding out of her flight suit, tossing the combat boots away carelessly she went further to explore the suite. The bedroom was equally decorated to the main living room with a side door leading to the bath area.

Happy to be out of the spartan spaces of a Caldari she walked in the bathroom and her jaw dropped. It included a small hydro-massage pool, a complete set of bathroom utilities one could wish for. Pushing the control button for the hydro-massage pool she watched the bubbling water fill it and with a smile she allowed her remaining clothes to slide off. With that she stepped into the bubbling water, relaxing as she sank in.

Clearing her mind, Keirra closed her eyes, her mind flying away to recent events, to people whom she knew at the present or had known, images filled her mind, happy ones. Her grandparents' home on Malkalen V, her deceased parents and her first space trip, Heiran and all the other Minmatar, people she had shared everything with, now taken from her by the Amarrians. She had loved Heiran and the others but the burly Brutor more than most and with his death she had failed to express her feelings restrained under her cold and calculating Caldari demeanor. Finally she burst into tears, letting emotions run rampant.....

The Angels of Blood

Location: Period Basis Region, Wild Space, PA-VE3 system, Blood Raider Station "Sanguinius"

With a determined look in her eyes a fiery golden haired Caldari woman followed two Blood Raider soldiers down the corridors of the station, quietly, wrapped in a red cloak with golden edges. Her ice-blue eyes looked at one of the soldiers and she spoke quietly "Nice operation you have set up here, how has business been lately?".

The man shrugged "You know all too well how business goes around here, miss Lukkanen. I do not know why the Bishop accepted to speak with you but your words do show some promise. It is not my place to judge the outcome of your meeting with his holyness". With a gesture he indicated a double door which opened before her, leading into a large office space with a viewport covering an entire wall section. The decorations were obviously Amarrian but with more red tones blended with the gold or brass motives all across the wall. A man waited by the large window wrapped in priestly clothing, his hair cut short, with a shaved face that made him appear almost normal. The only thing betraying his twisted mind were bloodshot eyes which rested on Keirra as she entered.

"Miss Lukkanen, welcome to Station Sanguinius, I am Bishop Livinius. I am finally pleased to meet the person coming up with such a tempting offer for our convenant", he spoke approaching the Caldari woman slowly, clasping her shoulder for a moment, "Please, have a seat".

Shaking off disgust the young woman smiled, or doing her best to do so and nodded "I am pleased to meet you in person finally your holyness and I am happy that you accepted to see me", without adding another word she stepped to the indicated high-back chair, sitting in it very lady-like, looking at the man with perhaps a degree of respect mixed with caution.

Taking a small remote the high ranking priest powered up a Holo-Display and spoke "You are asking us for help in your operation and your promise is by most aspects tempting. As we do hold a large dose of Insorum Sulphate and we do require technology to further our Holy cause I am inclined to agree in comitting convenant ships and soldiers", he turned to look at her as the map highlighting Sarum held installations appeared. "However I need assurances that you are not an agent working for the Amarr Empire".

Snapping nearly Keirra grumbled "Bishop, I come here with an escort which does not have the best reputation in Caldari or Amarr space. Perhaps the Guristas ships should be indication enough that neither the Caldari State nor the Amarrians endorse this operation or sanction it. Think of it as a chance of pushing the Amarrians further into a corner, forcing them to spread their forces thin. The fact that I reclaim a couple of thousand slaves should not be of consequence to you.". Pausing a moment she stared the man in the eyes and grinned "Plus you might be getting some converts for your Faith, good sir which is a bonus if you ask me". Now silent she observed the Blood Raider official, go silent, not responding right away. He seemed to be thinking.

Five minutes of silence finally brought his reply "Miss Lukkanen, I will inform our forces to allow your strike wing to jump into our space. You're telling me that a Widow-class Battleship will provide jump bridging into Empire space for all of our forces, thus I accept. I will instruct our technical personnel to prepare Insorum canisters to be deployed into the ventilation systems of the facility we wish to attack". His cold face sketched a grin as he slapped his hands together "Young lady, perhaps this will be the start of a long and productive cooperation between us".

Standing up slowly Keirra bowed as she was taught to the bishop "Your holyness is most wise. I will send a message to the strike wing to begin bridging to the outer marker area of the station control perimeter, a thousand thanks".

A single nod of approval from the Blood Raider was all she needed. The operation had begun.

Location/Time: PA-VE3 system, Blood Raider weapons testing facility, sector 3, two weeks later.

With firm steps Keirra strolled down the corrirors of the "Wings of Blood", an Armageddon-class Battleship "liberated" by the Convenant some time ago. The bridge doors opened slowly and she stepped in, looking around. At their stations Blood Raider crew were waiting accompanied by Caldari personnel that were there to be instructed in operating the battleship's systems. Turning toward the ship's executive officer she chuckled "This is one lovely piece of machinery you have here, I like it".

The Convenant Officer nodded "It's a fairly new ship, a couple of years old. We got it in one of our raids deep in Empire Space. It's been in dock for refitting for a while now. We're two minutes from weapons testing window time and for the past week your men have progressed quite a bit in learning it's systems".Turning his attention toward the tactical console he spoke to the Caldari male stationed there "Ensign, power up Pulse Lasers, drones have been released, firing range clear, start working on a firing solution"

The young man was quick to work the Amarrian console and nodded "Hostiles located, bearing 056 by 010, batteries tracking, crystals aligned and focusing matrixes are ready to fire. Engaging the lead ship, sweeping down the left echelon".

The double barreled energy cannons began moving, tracking the target and streams of dark energy connected. The hull creaked and twisted under the titanic energy quantities released by the Armageddon-class battleship. An explosion marked it's destruction and the guns moved again to the next ship in formation. A squadron of Praetor Mark IIs moved ahead, ready to engage the smaller craft like hungry wolves.

Minutes later the Caldari tactical officer smiled "Targets destroyed, efficiency 97.8%, fighter drones returning to the hangar, sir. And i thought our ships were good, this Armageddon is nothing to complain about".

Crossing her arms across her chest Keirra smiled "I must say the Bishop was most generous to offer us this vessel, I am truly greatful". Her tritanium cast hand patted the Blood Raider's shoulder and the man genuinely smiled to her, content to see his ally satisfied with the Armageddon.

Location: Domain Region, Ekid system, Ekid X orbit, 0200 hours local planetary time.

Marcus Karri yawned sleepily at his console as he looked at the holo-screens bored. He was alone on traffic control duty for a flight sector and as usual not many ships transifted the area that time of night. A couple of yellow triangles indicated local freighters and haulers moving goods from the planet in system but not much else. Moments later however a new signature approached. Transmitting Amarr security codes the Armageddon-class battleship seemed to fly on a normal approach vector, nothing too unusual about it.

Starting up the comms the controller hailed the vessel "Divine Wings, this is controller Karri from Sarum Logistics Support station, proceed on vector to the inner marker and hold for a passing civilian convoy".

A female voice could be heard on the other end of the line "Sarum Station, acknowledged, holding in pattern for convoy.". Satisfied with the silence the controller moved his eyes to a new convoy of haulers approaching, escorted by small frigates and drones that darted around the heavyweight transport ships. He gruned again as his peace and quiet seemed to be disturbed.

"Convoy lead, this is Sarum Logistics Support Station control, state your destination and submit a flight plan". However no reply came, soon the Amarrian would see the reason why.

Location: Ekid X orbit, 0215 local time

The black hull of a Widow class battleship could be seen decloaking above the newly arrived convoy and the lightshow of a Jump Portal made the controller fly into a fit of panic. New ships were appearing and they sure weren't friendlies. Led by a Vulture Command Ship several Caldari and Minmatar ships jumped in, flanked by Ashimmu cruisers and fast interceptors darting past their hulls like a swarm of bees. Marcus could see on the station control cameras the Armageddon simply holding it's position, not moving to stop the new arrivals.

With a broadside turned the station the "Wings of Blood" launched several reinforced boarding pods filled not with Marines but canisters of Insorum. The pods took mere seconds to impact the station's walls, taking advantage of the lowered shields. Their access ramps opened and much to the surprise of the soldiers aboard a white haze was released from the inside. At first they didn't understand but moments later the concentrated dose of gas reached the nearby Minmatar workers.

 Dropping their tools the men and women looked at each other puzzled and soon the small Amarrian squad was overwhelmed by Matar armed with shovels, power tools and even chairs and beaten down. All across the station squads of security officers suffered the same fate as thousands of slaves broke free of their shackles. While many were shot down by the Amarr teams their superior numbers quickly overwhelmed the soldiers. Riots had broken out in all sections of the facility and even now, abandoning their posts the former prisoners rushed toward the docking bays, to flee.

As a group of men and women made their way to docking bay two the scene awaiting them was a nightmare for those who had defended it. Fallen on the floor were Amarr Marines, overpowered by a group of Caldari, Amarr and Minmatar. The leader of the group, a burly Guristas officer barked out "Move it you schlobs, to the transports, you're free, stop wasting time and haul ass!"

Unsure how to react they rushed toward several Badger and Mammoth class Industrials, quickly filling up their cargo bays and under an intense hail of shots from a newly arrived Amarr platoon. Once loaded, the ships proceeded toward the disabled access doors. A group of blaster minigun armed MTACs opened fire on the Imperial Marines pinning them down and soon one by one the Empress' finest fell to the vicious fire of the Guristas, Minmatar and Blood Raiders.

Under the intense fire another group of Blood Raiders darted from a boarding pod toward several docked Amarr ships. Boarding their pods and finally plugging in to the vessels they were quick to follow the transports. A final struggle saw the Guristas direct the retreat in an orderly fashion back to their craft much to the dismay of the Imperial reinforcements.

Location: Ekid X orbit, station perimeter area, 0330 local time.

As hawks frigates and drones swarmed past the hulls of the transports and much larger combat vessels, now closing in on their prey. A couple of Amarrian Navy vessels had arrived only to find themselves under a barrage of fire of artillery, energy turrets and missiles. Blood Raider interceptors swarmed the defender frigates, Harpies and Worms crushed Cruisers while Wolfs and a small wing of Blackbirds began locking down any ships that would compromise the retreat.

Among the defense fleet ships the Fury of Heaven advanced it's lasers ripping into any larger ship that got close. Zealous beyond measure the Commodore had broken ranks and now, ignoring any safety for his ship and crew advanced toward the final group of transport ships that moved away from the station. Disregarding notices from his officers he was oblivious when a Raven approached at near point blank range it's torpedoes crushing the shields and half of the armour in a single volley. The battleship began creaking as internal explosions caused the structure to buckle under the stress but the Guristas ship did not even bother to stop firing.

Wave after wave of explosive torpedoes stripped off armour, ripped off structure reinforcement, killed hundreds of  Amarr crew. Finally the old vessel collapsed, it's escape pods indicating some of the crew had survived.

Five minutes later Keirra's voice could be heard on all comm channels "Blood Rabbit fleet, back to the den! I repeat back to the den!". One by one the transports jumped out through the portal followed by the combat vessels and support craft, leaving a devastated Sarum station, baffled Imperial Navy officers and thousands of Minmatar freed from their bonds to the Empire. Despite their caution cheers erupted aboard all vessels from tens of thousands of men, women and children, praising the Blood Raiders, Guristas and the small Minmatar force that had taken part in the operation.

Epilogue: Malkalen III, Ishukone Watch Station docking bays.

No less than fifteen transports now filled the docking areas of the Caldari Station, thousands of Minmatar and not only some dirty, some ill but with the same outlook on their faces could be seenm they were happy. Their benefactor, unknown had secured freedom for them. Nearby a large passenger ship awaited bearing the colours of the Gallente Federation, ready to take them home.

Passing among them a small Civire woman passed mostly approaching other Caldari, gathering them. Overlooking the scene she smiled and spoke quietly to a man besides her "You see that Tyler, that is the taste of freedom. We gave them the chance of a new life. You may think I'm crazy ... but I feel i've come to peace with myself. House Sarum has suffered a blow that should show them they are not all powerful. They took my arms away, but I took the working arms of an entire station from them.". After a soft sigh she continued "I expect retaliation should they find out I was behind this but it will make them think twice. The Blood Raiders... we could not have done it without them. Not in a thousand years....."

A simple nod came from the male as he responded "I do think you've lost your mind but I do see success in your operation. I think it's best you lay low and start thinking how will you compensate the Guristas. They don't like it when they do not get their due".

"Tis' true my friend but let us remember that they are like us, Caldari. I will honour my end of the bargain as I always do". Brushing her powered prosthetic hand across his arm she pulled away, dissapearing into the shadows of the station, back to her little Diner where she could be herself, Keirra Lukkanen, the nice and friendly Caldari Diner owner who everyone liked.

The Wrath of the Amarr Empire

Location: Paye system, Tash-Murkon Region, Imperial Space

Commodore Wilhuf Larris looked at the viewscreen of his Apocalypse-class' vessel bridge, snorting. Before him the very familiar  shape of a Drake-class Battlecruiser came into view and he grinned "Lock on their aft section, scan their shield modulation, adjust lasers to match. Fire-at-will!". The red beams shooting from the Tachyon batteries connected with the Caldari vessel, striking home. The aft shielding of the Trident shimmered from the brunt of the impact and soon sensor reports were relayed to the Amarrian officer. With a wave of his hand he gestured "Continue shooting until you melt the armour plating as well, this is what that insolent Civire woman gets for crossing Lord Sarum".

A violent shake, sparks flying all around the ISS Mara indicated the results of the Amarrian's volley. The Caldari and Minmatar crew rushed to battle stations without orders from the bridge. Sitting high up in her command chair Keirra growled, now annoyed. She had been attacked without warning, by a potentially allied vessel. No feelings could be heard in her soft but cold toned voice "Bring us about, divert all energy to shields and propulsion. Tactical, get me a firing solution on that bastard, Pattern Alpha-Five".

The young tactical officer tried to joke and responded "Calculating firing solution, pattern suicide, we're flying at an Amarrian battleship, you lost your mind Captain".

Keirra's eyes now darted across data arriving from the tactical post and she nodded to herself "Reinforce fore shields, raise Photon Scattering and Heat dissipation fields. Load Havocs, get us within ten kilometers of that Apocalypse. Helm evasive paneuvers!". Moving toward the forward area of the bridge she rested her hand on her helmsman's shoulder "I have faith in you Larki, it is your time to shine. I have no time for the Hydrostatic pod". Clenching her fists, the girl's intense gaze began following overlay data from the main viewscreen, keeping an eye on the tactical data.

Much more agile than the lumbering Amarrian behemoth the Drake began turning into a zig-zag pattern, seven jet engine contrails indicating that the first missiles had been launched. Each missile bore besides it's standard markings ancient Caldari glyphs, each a part of the code of the warriors of old. Besides each Caldari glyphs lay Minmatar tribal writing, put there in honour of the Minmatar crew. With brute force all missiles struck the Apocalypse's armour a torrent of energy released from the blast ripping off armour plating.

Wilhuf Larris flew from his chair dazzled, trying to collect himself moments later. The bridge Engineer spoke from his console "Sir, the Missiles hit our starboard Hydrazine tanks. They're leaking all over that section, medical teams report heavy casualties".

The Amarrian could not believe his ears, he barked an order, fury obvious on his face "All weapon batteries fire! Unleash the drones! Kill her! That Caldari unbeliever will see what it means to cross us!"

Time: First Strike +25 minutes

A bulky Amarrian Marine, a squad leader by the markings on his combat armour jumped at one of the Brutors, one of the last still standing defending the bridge of the Mara, one who till the end remained by his captain, the men locked in an evenly matched wrestle. The rest of the squad were now engaging the remnants of the Drake's crew at point blank range.Two Civire males, wearing Ishukone Watch uniforms drew out their combat blades charging the Amarrians much to the surprise of the Imperial Marines.

With her hair in dissaray, bruised and battered Keirra shot back from behind the engineering console. Her eyes alert tried to get a glimpse of the battle raging around the bridge. To her left the Civire crew members were slashing, punching and kicking at the boarders alas to her right Heiran fell, slain by the Amarrian sergeant. A cold, calculated killer's gaze now stopped on the man who slew her friend, she leaned down picking up the rifle of a fallen Amarrian trooper, aimed and shot.

The energy pulses hit the Amarrian violently, melting armour and flesh and with a shambling move the squad leader fell. Overpowered by the Imperial Marines one by one the last men and women serving aboard the Mara fell or were severely injured, unable to fight back. Now alone Keirra looked down, unwilling to accept defeat. Even as the officer leading the boarding party ordered cease-fire she stepped from behind her cover, throwing down her pistol. The silver combat blade with monomolecular edges darted out.

With a smug grin Lt. Charai looked at Keirra speaking quietly "Surrender and Lord Sarum may decide to spare your life....".

Fueled by anger and hatred Keirra refused to drop her weapon, but the moment she raised her blade to salute the officer and thus challenge him to single combat he simply raised his rifle, shooting her sword arm and left leg. Falling down she tried not to scream but the pain was obvious. Every inch of her body had felt the laser shots and now she was powerless. A couple of grunts grabbed her by the wrists and began pulling her along the floor of the disabled Drake back toward the boarding ships.

A minor struggle to break free was only met with kicks from the soldiers. With tears in her eyes she could see the surviving crew being rounded by the Amarr soldiers. Many who stood defiant were shot yet others would be taken to a life of slavery, regardless of race. Finally she had failed, she failed for trying to stay true to her friends, her new family...."If i ever get out of this they'll all pay...". In a last moment she blacked out.

Location: Bridge of the Apocalypse Battleship "Fury of Heaven".

Wilhuf Larris gazed down upon the injured Caldari girl with both confusion and disgust. Looking at his chief medical officer he tried to speak but decided not to. One so young would defy the Amarr Empire, it's Navy, a Holder. He reached and moved Keirra's hair away from her face and sighed, as his wrinkled face moved into a grin, turning to the doctor, "Doctor, wake her up. I have explicit orders from Lord Sarum to give her a punishment she'll never forget!".

The wary medic obeyed, using a Stimm injection to awaken the Civire from her uncoscious state. Pulling away he bowed to the Commodore, simply opting to remain in the back row. Taking in a deep breath Keirra looked around and realized where she was. Several officers from the "Fury of Heaven" looked down upon her and a young man appeared carrying a ceremonial sword. An older man, possibly the man in charge looked at her and spoke "Keirra Lukkanen, under the auspices of Amarrian law you are accused of theft from a Holder family. Imperial Penal code normally instructs for death as punishment but his excellency, Lord Sarum suggested a more appropriate punishment. He has instructed us to remove your arms so you will think again before attempting thievery... you will have the time to think upon your deeds."

Sedated Keirra could barely struggle as the Marines holding her removed her tunic. A small stock was prepared but gathering the last vestiges of her will she looked defiantly at the Commodore, uttering in a clear EVE Standard "You'll pay for this, I am Caldari, and your pathetic laws mean nothing to me... There is the State, there is honour and loyalty. You have none. The friends you have taken from me showed me what i suspected all along... you are nothing but an Empire of dying traditions....".

Waiting for the inevitable, Keirra closed her eyes as the sharp pain came. With the efforts of the apalled Amarr doctor her wounds were sealed and she was transported to an escape pod. It had a week of life support. Now alone in the cold dark of space she could only see as she was jetissoned from the Apocalypse, the broken hull of her Drake coming into view. Ignoring the pain she was in, she finally broke down and cried as a final volley from the Apocalypse obliderated the Drake, filling the area with debris and floating corpses.

Location: Malkalen III, Ishukone Watch Station, Three weeks, 2 days, 23 hours, 41 minutes later.

Hiriomi Lukkanen looked down upon his grand-daughter, from his chair besides her hospital reserve bed, looking upon her pale features, the man's eyes trying to stay open from all the time he had missed on sleep. He was old, in his mid 60s but the strength of his earlier years was still visible. Used to hardship he had raised his family in the disciplined Caldari society but now he faced something few Caldari had been through. His youngest grand-daughter dishonoured by the wishes of a merciless Amarrian Holder, for showing what a noble of his calibre lacked, compassion, mercy and honour.

With a sigh he looked upon the Cybernetic arms that replaced her original arms. Out of instinct his hand gripped Keirra's own and for the first time he felt a squeeze. The girl's eyes moved and finally opened. She looked at him and within a few seconds later her mouth sketched a smile upon the sight of her grand-father.

Trying to find his words, Hiriomi smiled back, or at least tried to, finally speaking "What has he done to you my child...? On my son's cold grave I swear he will pay!... How are you feeling regardless?".

Weakened Keirra gripped her grandfather's hand, her cybernetic arms greatly enhancing her strength. She tried to sit up before answering, "The Commander of the Fury of Heaven....". It was all she could say before laying on her back again, still holding onto her grandfather's hand. Now slowly awakening to reality her words continued "The Amarrians, they took everyone grandfather..., Caldari, Minmatar, women, children. I thought the Gallenteans were those i should hate but I realize they are not. The Amarrians are against ALL we stand for...."

The old man sighed reaching to move a few strands of hair away from her face, speaking "Keirra you suffered enough for your beliefs and you behaved as any Caldari should. Come home with me and your grandmother, you need your peace. Find ... something peaceful to do. Your Diner is still there, go run it. Or why not buy an Industrial? That is honest work as well and you know our family has never stepped away from work. If my years hold me I want to see you happy and finally finding your place....".

His words went through Keirra's mind like a revelation. She smiled big now and nodded "I think you're right grandfather. Our old Badger Mark II, the Humpback, it's still in dry dock?....".

A bit surprised Hiriomi nodded and smiled "Yes, it is Keirra, well I'm glad you see things my way.". The man's face showed his relief as the girl had finally seen reason.

With their sparkle of youth returned Keirra's eyes looked at Hiriomi and she smiled to herself. Perhaps her hasty approach had been her downfall. Now she will show wisdom, patience and above all even more determination. It was finally time to do things the Caldari way, plan ahead, build rigorously and when the enemy expects least, strike. And she had the tools to do it!

The Call of Home - part 2 - Diner in the Skies

Location: Malkalen III - Ishukone Watch Station, level 20, section 5

With the working hours of the Recreation level in the station coming to a start several technicians toiled across the fiber-optic controls of a Holo-Projector, their foreman grunting as he finally plugged the cables for the image motivators in place. Adjusting his cap he turned toward one of his underlings speaking "Okay, load up the Demo program, let's see if this thing works. If it breaks down they'll have our necks for it...".

The worker inserted a crystal data slate into the machine, accessing the playback controls. Soon an image flickered to life and the scene of a moving MTAC was followed by a Gladiator cutscene, finally the image of an atmospheric race being played. With hope in his eyes the rookie looked at the lead technician who hoped their two day effort would pay off. Unflinching the owner of this long closed Diner watched as the images played again, nodding to the workers.

"Yes, this is adequate, I will fine tune anything needed myself if you leave me a copy of the instruction manual. A fine job gentlemen, thank you. Credits and tips will be transferred to your accounts". Moving away from the holo projector Keirra slowly entered the kitchen area where the first meals of the day were already being prepared. Several of her Minmatar employees had heartily agreed to join her in the Diner business and now their tribal cuisine would soon be experienced by the entire station should they wish to.

The newly appointed Chef, a muscular but pleasant Brutor woman turned toward Keirra with a data-pad, containing the day's menu. Sliding across to the first screen she started to explain "As it's our opening day I thought to prepare some delicacies. I was fortunate to find a couple of tons of Arrow-tail thus a small arrangement with Pator indigenous fruit and vegetables will do. For those desiring more consistent meals i've entered orders for materials most of which have arrived for some nice juicy plains-hog steaks and similar products. I've also added som Amarrian and Gallente recipes as well as local cuisine". Quiet now the Minmatar waited for Keirra's approval as the new owner of the Diner browsed the list.

Finally satisfied with the prepared food Keirra smiled "Thank you Sharia, this all looks quite exquisite". Moving toward the drinks section she rested her hand on her bartender's shoulder "So did you manage to get all the things we talked about Sallik?.. Besides the hell knows how many cans of Quafe?".

The Sebiestor grinned widely "With the prices you set and the cocktails i can make for the folks coming here we'll be the number one Diner in station. I took the liberty to enter some recipes myself, you know, home made. I've sent them to the Ishukone Health inspectors and Consumables Inspection departments for approval and they've given us the go, we're within State norms". Locking his eyes with Keirra's he pointed out toward the entrance of the Diner "Seems you already have hungry customers around, best not keep them waiting. I've already sent Marsha and Danni to work".

With a big smile on her face Keirra moved out into the diner's main are adjusting her tunic, before starting up the Holo-Projector, tuning it to the Ishukone Media Sports channel. Checking with her security for a few seconds she moved toward the electrical control panels. Pressing the final unlit control she made her way toward the entrance as her Diner's logo lit up in a light blue, the inscription flanked by two five pointed stars. "Keirra's Diner", that neon lit shingle made the young Civire woman smile. Slowly stepping inside, she flipped the "Open/Closed" display to "Open".

Time of day: 1030 Hours

If at first reluctant to enter the new establishment the Station visitors now gained courage. The smell of freshly cooked food drew many in and soon a large group of Caldari and other races gathered by the holo-projector and the gambling tables that were set up deliberately. Music playing at a level enough to allow people to interact sounded in the background, the waitresses darted from table to table to take orders while the bar itself slowly gained more and more customers.

Cheering started coming from the Sports Holo Projector as several Caldari Navy staff on shore leave followed a Gladiatorial match, broadcasted from the Regional championships. Despite the non gambling nature of the "Sports" section of the club credit chips were exchanged, all bets were on. Some happy faces, others dissapointed could be seen.

Moving gracefully among her new host of patrons Keirra stopped to talk to some of them, each person approached with a friendly smile. This former bar long neglected and abandoned had been transformed, reborn from the ashes of it's old self like the Phoenix. Turning toward the picture of a ship named after the legendary bird Keirra Lukkanen stepped away from the crowded area, donning an apron, taking her place behind the counter. If she was to work with this place she had bought for almost nothing she'd work with her employees side by side. She had to set aside her capsuleer habits as now her brothers and sisters roaming the stars had come as well, people she could relate to. Making her way toward a Caldari patron she spoke softly "Hey, welcome to Keirra's what will it be?"....

With that her day and her business took off and she spread her wings further, her actions taking her even further on her Journey.

The Call of Home - part 1

The breeze slowly blew among the ancient trees of the Sarrainen Forest, high in the mountain range with the same name on Malkalen V, the sun slowly setting, it's now orange light turning the entire snowy landscape into a wonderland. On the shores of lake Mullanen a small settlement prepared for the coming evening, one by one it's lights flickering, turning on, their reflections now visible on the lake. The town of Lorraiemi had been estabilshed decades ago as something of a resort in the mountain range, without too much industry, a perfect place for any Caldari to find peace and quiet.

Most structures were the same prefabricated designs, just assembled in different ways. As night approached many workers from the local small factories retired toward their homes or public recreation areas for a drink. Hovercars roamed the streets, mostly local inhabitants moving away from the low density industrial areas back into the town for the night.

Larin Oriannen, a rather old Ishokone Watch officer parked his patrol car slowly in front of "The Ice Bear", one of the most famous local pubs, with a rather bored look upon his face. As he stepped into the light of the pub's entrance he pushed the door with his gloved hand, smiling as the warmth of the establishment touched his face. The bartender, a Deteis woman smiled seeing the aged officer and spoke "Done for the day Larin, shall i get you the usual?".

An approving nod from the Watchman made the woman move toward the drink distributor machine. Removing his winter jacket Larin took seat in one of the high stools by the bar looking around from instinct. Several workers were there, each keeping to their own, a couple of them playing a game of Holo-Darts. His eyes also noticed several young couples by a table, enjoying themselves with a card game. The State had legalized gambling thus such games were allowed in public places. Nothing seemed to be bothering the tranquility of this town.....

.... But soon, this would change. Flying over Lake Mullanen the AVS Avenger, a Cormorant-class destroyer approached the small town's Star-port. Besides a couple of shuttles and the odd frigate ships rarely landed here. While it had facilities to keep larger ships nobody every bothered to visit Lorraiemi except winter sports enthusiasts and the rare Ishukone official. The roar of the Destroyer's engines filled the valley that hid the lake as it flew low, no higher than one hundred meters above the water. What started first as a low rumble  grew into an infernal noise now. Many inhabitants of the town rushed to their windows or the streets.

Soren Kerrin, a dock-worker at the hover-craft rental facility raised his head only to watch the star-ship approach, over two hundred meters long, the lights of it's multiple decks and navigation lights turning the surface of Lake Mullanen into a veritable light show.Around him several others watched this rare sight almost awed. Their eyes could see the ship's landing struts being lowered as it moved toward the star-port, it's landing and spot lights coming online. All across town the news spread like wildfire of the ship's arrival.

With aging eyes Larin Oriannen observed the whole scene as he had moved into the streets at the first signs of the approaching vessel. Close to him a young girl asked shyly "What is that, Mr. Oriannen?". Her small hand pointed to the landing Cormorant.

The Watch Officer smiled a little, trying to find the best answer to give the inquisitive child "It's a Cormorant, Keika. A large starship, they rarely come here". The child looked at the scene,then back at the officer, awed and perhaps a little frightened by the ship itself.

Meanwhile, at the Star Port

Several port service vehicles made their way toward the landing pad that had been set active for the Cormorant, slowly stopping to a halt. Towering above them the sub-light engines of the star-ship powered down, it's other systems still running. Before the eyes of the maintenance of the service personnel the access ramp lowered, it's edge gently stopping onto the ground. The staff leader slowly approached it, setting his gaze upon the figures descending on the ramp.


 Keirra wearing a set of her usual utilitarian clothing, wrapped in a double insulated winter suit stepped slowly on the ramp, taking in a deep breath of the planet's fresh air. Her eyes pierced the twilight as she moved to the foot of the ramp, followed by her companion, a large Minmatar male, dressed in a similar way. She turned to him and smiled, a genuine happy outlook on her face visible "Welcome to Malkalen V my friend. It's time we took a vacation".

The Brutor smiled, as this was his first time stepping off the ships and stations, feeling good about the change of atmosphere. As a free man it was his first time ever visiting a Caldari controlled planet but it pleased him. More stories to tell to his tribe back at home on Pator. A low voiced remark came from him "I suppose this is winter, it's rather cold".

An approving nod came from Keirra who was already on her way toward the port workers. For the first time these Minmatar heard the Caldari language as greetings were exchanged. His eyes scanned the surroundings, observing several shuttles and a couple of atmospheric transports parked at the terminal. However his attention was turned again toward the Caldari. He could hear laughter, perhaps joking as Keirra interacted with the staff.

Turning her golden maned head toward her Minmatar crew, Keirra smiled "Don't be afraid gentlemen, we're among friends here, no need to be shy about it". With radiating eyes she looked to her left and the small town a couple of kilometers away. She felt like jumping out of her skin out of joy. After so many years she knew she finally answered it, the call of home and her first destination was clear in her mind. She would visit her grandparents.

A possible outlook on Keirra out of pod

This time it will not be a story but an outlook on Keirra Lukkanen out of pod. This is not MY art but it is made by ^jia-flynn from Deviant Art.

Into Wild Space - part 2 - The Way of the Warrior

Like a shadow among the stars the small trail left in it's wake by the AVS Blackout could be barely seen, let alone detected. Meanwhile, two hundred kilometers away, in a Sansha station, hidden within a rarefied gas cloud Taarko Raitanen looked at his sensor scopes. It was way too quiet and besides the small number of friendly ships he could see little else. His cybernetic hand trailed over the controls as he grunted. Another long shift lay before him, eight hours of watching no man's land. Rising from his seat he moved past a hardwired servitor to a food processor. Retrieving a mug of smuggled Quafe he remained standing, by a nearby window, his bionic eyes scanning the void of space.

At the same time on the bridge of the AVS Blackout the cold steely eyes of Keirra Lukkanen stared at the station and it's defenders. She had not used the Pod, not this time. She wanted to board the station and kill every single Sansha aboard as brutal as possible. With her newly hired crew of Minmatar freed slaves she felt sure of herself, now that she was no longer alone. Slowly besides her hidden ship the form of an enormous Tempest-class Battleship passed, escorted by a Drake class battlecruiser. Darting past the cloaked cruiser several Praetor type drones moved in formation toward their goal.

Turning toward a large Brutor-tribe Minmatar she spoke coldly "Heiran, prepare your men for boarding. It is time we reawaken the way of the old Warriors. We will cut them down like the swine they are. It is time to show these monsters what we think of them". The Minmatar grinned, his heavily boned face moving into a crooked smile.

Looking to one of his underlings, the former Minmatar slave spoke quietly "Get the boys ready, we're finally doing what we were meant to do all along. It is time to honour the Minmatar Republic and our Elders". The smaller man, possibly Sebiestor by features nodded and moved toward the Intercom.

"Red Scorpions, gear up, move to your boarding pods". His calm voice resounded in the living area of the ship where Keirra's new crew, hardened Minmatar fighters began donning their combat suits, inspecting rifles and close combat weapons, smearing war paint onto their faces. In an orderly fashion they entered the boarding pods. Joined by Heiran they strapped themselves in.

Meanwhile, aboard the Sansha station

Taarko Raitanen dropped his glass of Quafe, his eyes stopping on the shapes of the new arrivals. He could see the Tempest showing it's broadside filled with weapons turning to face the station,the Drones moving in like hungry predators after the frigates and several new contacts warping in. The monstrous prow of a Brutix-class battle-cruiser could be seen, the Gallentean ship waited but it's drones, deadly Hammerheads joined the Praetors in a dance of death.... before he could alert the defenders the first Sansha frigates exploded, swarmed by the drones. A violent explosion threw him on the floor along with other station crew and as he stood he could see a sentry tower explode.

Besides him another station crew member attempted in vain to coordinate the defending ships but much to their horror they were in a communications blackout. Decloaking slowly a Blackbird moved alongside the Brutix. Raitanen realized they were doomed. The defending ships jammed, communication cut off. However the violence with which the 1400 mm cannons of the Tempest hit was unseen before. Rupturing five sections of the lower decks, power began fluctuating. About twenty kilometers away a Sansha Nightmare-class Battleship exploded under merciless fire from the Drake.

With a short prayer Raitanen grabbed his pulse-pistol from the floor only to see white contrails approaching the station. Boarding pods.Launched from the Brutix and Blackbird they bore holes through the outer layers of the station and soon the alarm was raised. The automated voice of a Servitor announced the inevitable "Boarding parties on decks five and seven, all fire teams to their posts".

Sansha station - Deck 7

The doors of boarding pod six opened and swarming out a whole squad of ten Minmatar soldiers rushed out. Sansha defenders opened fire without hesitation but soon strobe grenades were thrown, blinding the defenders behind their barricade. A large Minmatar wielding nothing less than a two handed serrated blade jumped over the barricade among the surprised defenders. Wide arcs of the sweeping blade chopped off limbs, heads, opened torsos. With a tribal Warcry he advanced flanked by a small woman with Caldari features and two other Matari soldiers.

Keirra leveled her pistol with a Sansha woman who tried to run away and a single shot from the automatic pistol pierced her neck, tossing her backwards against a wall. While the spaceborne defenders were something of a threat the station seemed badly defended. Mostly drafted civilians with few real soldiers. The Minmatar squad passed by, securing the area and soon Heiran turned to his Caldari employer speaking "Just got a message in the comms. Ni'Lee's men and engineers have broken through deck five and are headed toward the reactor core. They dismantled most of the defense turrets but these bastards are putting up a stiff defense in some areas".

With a casual voice Lukkanen replied quietly "Bring up squad two, they have incendiary grenades and flamethrowers. Burn these bastards alive". Not questioning her commands the Minmatar commander relayed the orders to squad two. Unlike the rest of the Minmatar these men had been subdued by drugs in the Amarr Empire, their accumulated anger and aggressiveness now an asset. To the surprise of the Sansha's defense post in the following section they were attacked by .... two men.

No more than two armour clad Matari approached the corridor held by the station staff, holding weapons people rarely saw. Gouts of blue Hydrazine fire washed down the hall, across the barricade flowing over the first rank of soldiers. Screams and the smell of burned flesh soon were the only thing heard. Behind the weapon specialists all three squads advanced, single pistol rounds finishing off those who remained still alive.

Corridor 2A - Section V - Deck 7, Sansha Station

Taarko Raitanen and several others that remained alive after their compatriots had been burned rushed down the section toward the escape pod. Among his group were even some of the family members of those aboard the facility, not soldiers, but civilians.  A single obstruction now was in their path. With loose dark blonde hair, cold blue eyes, she stared at them all with a hateful expression. Wearing a Caldari State uniform, with markings of the Acerbus Vindictum Corporation, the once nice young woman had now turned into a soldier fueled by hatred and vengeance. Holstering her pistol, Taarko's eyes could see her draw a combat blade, a sword as he could recognize it

Tilting her head, her soft voice fell upon the ear of the survivors like a thing more horrifying than death itself. "Those who survive this will be given to the Amarr Empire as slaves. However if any of you has enough honour to face me in single combat I will allow you to go to your escape pods. However I can't guarantee you'll survive."

Raitanen, now locked in a fight or flight state picked up a long iron pipe from the floor and stepped forward "Why.. why did you attack us?", his question came naturally. He dared to hope for survival, for a chance to get out of that hell alive.

Keirra did not respond however. She charged right at him, tritanium alloy pipe clashing with Caldari combat blade. The woman was not extraordinarily strong but where she lacked in strength she made up in agility. The sound of metal on metal now disturbed the deathly silence of the station. Taking his chance the Sansha communications operator lunged at the Caldari, trying to use his body mass to slam her down. Upon contact a sharp pain rushed through his shoulder but his weight threw her off balance, his cybernetic arm grabbing her throat, squeezing.

Struggling Lukkanen tried to push him off but he was too heavy. Just as he tried to pin her sword arm down, her free hand moved to her thigh holster. Seconds later the cold barrel of the Ishukone manufactured automatic pistol pressed against his stomach and no less than a dozen shots pierced his skin, the rounds rupturing his insides with incredible ease. Taarko Raitanen fell onto his side, his life spent.

Standing up slowly the woman looked at the other civilians. "You will be taken to Domain and handed over to the Amarr authorities.They'll know what to do with you, however I do not believe you will be made slaves. A warrior always keeps his or her word, it is the Caldari way. Know that the fact your ships killed my crew brought this upon you". Turning toward her Minmatar second in command she spoke quietly "On second thought, get them to civilised space, get them on a freighter and send them to Gallente space, at least they won't be made slaves for sure".

Space - Station perimeter

The burning wrecks of the Sansha ships now had become a cemetery of what had once been a Sansha resupply station. With the Vindictum ships moving away a large explosion tore the station apart. From her bridge Keirra watched the debris flying into space and she nodded "We have orders to return to base. We've done what we came for Heiran, we have re-awakend the way of the Warrior. I was honoured to fight by your side and the side of your men".

Moving away from the window she tapped a few controls on the comms station and spoke "Blackout to Atlantis, I believe we're done here Nik. We've made our point. We're moving into active Stealth, see you at base. Drinks are on me".

A laughter came from the other side from the Commander of the Tempest Battleship "Received Blackout, see you at station and try not to get lost".

Into Wild Space -- part 1

With a deep scream Keirra felt the hull of the Caracal breach, her mind feeling every single bit of pain as the ship ruptured, the screams of her crew across the comms. In total silence the Pod she was in warped away. Completely automated the small craft moved from gate to gate, from system to system stopping at the Sarum Prime gate. With gleaming armour plating a Coercer-class Destroyer, part of the Sarum security force stopped just above, a single tractor beam pulling the hydrostatic pod toward the ship.

Aarin Lars, a technician aboard the "Celestial Song", approached the battered pod, quickly opening it's side port. With a scanner he checked the person within, his eyes daring across the reports. Turning toward the Amarrian medic standing nearby he nodded "She's alive, lucky one she is. I don't see any damage".The doctor moved toward the POD, typing in the code retrieved by Aarin and it's door opened slowly, bio-gel leaking outside. Inisde lay a woman with strong Caldari features, a small but apparently resilient body. With the aid of a medical technician he extracted Keirra out, carrying her on a stretcher to the Coercer's medical bay.

A week later Keirra opened her eyes, a foggy light before them. Reaching toward her head, sitting up slowly, calling out a name "Jukka ... what happened". A woman stood besides her but she didn't seem to be aboard her ship anymore. She was in a clean hospital reserve. The nurse reached down to settle her into the bed and sighed "Settle down, you need to rest girl....". Alertness forced Keirra to sit up again. "Where is my crew ...?!".

At her feet just at the edge of the bed an Amarr Navy officer responded "Your ship was destroyed within the Providence region, we found it's remains and the frozen corpses of your crew".

She could not believe it. Her friends, were gone. She had been with them on the same ship, adventuring together, sharing every single part of the life of a spacer. With a deep sigh Keirra pushed the Nurse aside slowly who didn't attempt again to get her into bed. Instead another woman appeared into the reserve with her clothing, handing them over with a smile. Ignorant of the apalled gaze the three Amarrians gave her she stripped off her hospital gown, uncaring if her forms would be visible, putting on her usual clothing. With a respectful yet demanding tone she asked "Where am I? Which station?"

The officer collected his thoughts and responded "Sarum Prime, Imperial Academy miss...".

Giving him a nod all she could say was "Thank you for looking out for my health, however i'm no good here. Funds will be transferred to the hospital for your services". Before any of them could reply Keirra moved toward the hospital's reception desk and despite protests from the Nurses and doctor she asked to be checked out. The local Amarr doctor did his best to have her change her mind but to little result. Storming out the sliding doors she quickly made her way toward the station's market area.

A baffled nurse looked at the doctor "She's a fiery one but her attitude may get her killed"
The old medic sighed "She's Caldari, what do you expect. She lives for competition and adventure, there is no stopping one such as her. I fear that whoever destroyed her ship will be needing coffins not hospital beds".

Making her way to a console Keirra quickly opened the ship market window. The station offered most types of ships but she moved to the Caldari section. Stopping her eyes upon a brand new Blackbird she confirmed the purchase, a blinking icon indicating her that the funds had been transferred. With the acquisition of a data-pad she moved to the docking area where the assembled spacecraft waited. With a trained eye she ran her hand across it's lower hull, inspecting the landing struts, ventral RCS thruster ports and grinned. The ship itself was in good order.

A group of technicians came out of the docking bay office, slowly closing in to her position "Nice purchase ma'am, brand new off the assembly line. Have you made an inventory of the systems you wish installed?"

Tilting her head to the left she looked at the Tech Support man and nodded, handing him over a datapad. The man browsed the items and raised an eyebrow "Umbra White Noise Generators, Improved Cloaking Device, Signal Distorsion amplifier, Mutispectral Jammer, Magnetometric and Ladar as well, Shield Extender and Afterburner......three Assault Launchers, damage control and these rigs. Okay you want us to get these for you off the market?".

Keirra smiled "Yes, the funds will transfer from my account, please have it fitted as soon as possible sir". Without another word she headed up the ramp into the ship itself. The interiors were clean, smelled of fresh paint, otherwise it was a typical Caldari vessel. However she was satisfied, she needed little more than that.

Caldari Commercial

We pause for a Commercial from our sponsor!

Picking up the garbage

Things had changed in the past couple of weeks and for once in her life Keirra was satisfied. She had returned within the Caldari State, found employement with a private Corporation and strangely met new people. Still confused and reserved she reviewed their files, curious though. Nik Domar, Mr. RJ Hunley, many others as well. Her eyes however rested on a single co-worker. Nik Domar, Minmatar by birth, qualified in multiple professions. He intrigued her. With a good working relation going on reported to most of the other employees she switched to a Holo-projection of her logs.

While she had little space experience she had the privilege of witnessing up close the majesty of a Maelstrom type Battle-Ship. Despite it's Minmatar design the ship had impressed her. State of the art technology, modern weapons, computer systems and simply an feeling of power. The trip to the Samauni system had been productive and finally after grueling days of work her dream had come true. A Badger MK II transport ship waited for her. A movement of sliding doors made Keirra jump in her seat. Turning her eyes rested on Mr. Domar and she grinned "Do that again Nik and I might blow an arm or leg off, you startled me". Discretely she set her Ishukone "Scarbolt" automatic pistol in the drawer of her desk.

The Minmatar barely sketched any gesture but responded "You need some time off Lukkanen. So much work, always browsing the market and studying. Work can make one sick you know. Now get yourself ready. It's time to test that Cormorant of yours.".

It was true, she had studied Destroyers lately and indeed turned out they were decent all rounders. Replace their gun turrets with Tractor Beams and Salvager devices and they became effective salvaging vessels. Pull out the reactor control units and add an Expanded Cargohold and they would be literally working small cargo vessels. Rising from her seat, picking up her jacket she went out of the Corporate office past the waiting Minmatar. She looked at him inquisitively and continued along her path toward the turbolifts. As her gloved finger pressed on the elevator's -Call- button she turned to her right. Domar followed her and now leaned against the wall he spoke "So what's the deal with you Lukkanen? Buying off a Badger and a Cormorant?".

Stretching a little Keirra chuckled to herself, not looking at the man but her response came naturally "Deal is simple. My old man owned a Salvaging and transport business, we were working for Ishukone, I suppose i'm picking up where he left off when he died". With a shake of her head she adjusted her loose hair slightly, stepping into the elevator as it's doors opened. Following her, Nik also entered the elevator, silent for now. He wasn't much of a talker unless he said something to say or ask.

With heavy boots the small Civire woman stepped onto the station's dock, looking around, her voice quiet this time "So what ship are you bringing in Nikki?".

The Matar shrugged but eventually he indicated out a Cyclone-class battle-cruiser "I'll bring the Cyclone-class I own. I'll kill them,you jump in and clear everything". With a final word he moved to the nearby docking platform an up the ramp into the bowels of the vessel. With her blue eyes looking at him go she turned herself, adjusting her t-shirt, realizing she had forgotten to pull her jacket on.

Despite the stares she did get along the way from many men on the station she felt comfortable. Her foot set itself slowly on the ramp leading to the AVS Avenger, her Cormorant-type destroyer and firm footsteps carried her into the ship, eventually leading to it's bridge.

......Hours later...........

After some thirty jumps her ship once again faced the long way home. While her old crew kept transferring from ship to ship as her missions demanded, this time she did not go into the  hydrostatic pod. Sitting quietly with a bottle of Quafe in her hand on the bridge she looked on her viewscreen. Off the starboard the engine exhausts of the Cyclone flared as both ships moved away from the Onnamon-Uuhulanen star gate. Pushing her comms button her voice could finally be heard "Nik, i'm stopping here for the night. I'll see you tomorrow."

An audio reply came quickly from the Matari ship "Roger that. I have the whole cargo-bay filled with the items you collected. Jita is waiting with an everhungry market. This mission has been uneventful, get yourself some sleep Keirra, have a good one". With that his voice cut off as the Cyclone moved into Warp.

Once again, alone in the cold emptyness of space Keirra sighed, looking at a small photo of her family kept besides her Captain's chair. Turning toward her helmsman she smiled but to herself this time "Jukka, takes us home. We all deserve our rest..."

Closing the Gate to Heaven

Star System: Malkalen
Location: Vicinity of the Malkalen V Asteroid Belt

Marc Colelie, a young Gallentean sensor operator relaxed idly at his station at the hidden Gallente Starbase recently deployed in Caldari space, overseeing a Star-gate under construction. His brown eyes checked the holo-screens of his console, with a very bored look in his eyes. Turning toward a colleague, an Intaki female he spoke quietly "So Giselle, are we still going to see the holo-film after our shift is over?". The woman chuckled and swatted his shoulder "I promised didn't I?". Smiles were exchanged, but slowly a small signature appeared on Marc's holo display. Turning to the display he double checked, turning toward his supervising officer, Major, I have a warp signature approaching, I've checked the arrival schedule, it's none of ours".

The Supervisor, rushed toward the operator, checking his own data, "... Damn, Caldari signature, i'm getting sensor data on the ship. It's an Ishukone scout, registered as "Flameburst". It just dropped out of warp...".
Shocked faces on the sensor operators turned toward the Major as he muttered "Dyonisus, this is Sensor control, we have a Caldari signature dropped out of warp, bearing 350 by 14, Kestrel Class, it's headed toward the star-gate. Initiate Jam. Defense groups two and three, intercept and blow it up, that bastard is already broadcasting coordinates".

As a cloud of birds of prey the Atron squadrons quickly moved away from the station. Their crews eager to take out a Caldari ship began to load their particle blasters, just as the Celestis class cruiser accompanying them prepared to reach jamming range. A volley of blaster-fire shot from around 7 km barely missed the Kestrel. Meanwhile the Caldari ship's missile launcher doors opened, loading mechanisms pushed the first Piranha Missiles down the tubes.

Meanwhile, aboard the Flameburst.

Surrounded by Bio-Gel, Keirra Lukkanen was again in her element again. Feeling every system of the ship and well aware of the Gallente ships on her tail she activated the Missile Launchers. Four Piranha missiles took flight like the voracious predatory fish they took their name from flying toward the Star-gate. Monitoring their trajectory the young Caldari woman grinned. A large explosion in proximity of the Gate and damage reports indicated the missiles hit home, putting a large dent in the Gate's shielding. However a violent shake indicated the Kestrel itself has been hit. Turning toward her sensor systems she could see no less than ten Atrons firing volley after volley at her rear shields.

She attempted to compensate, but the venerable ship was slightly slow to respond. Turning to the comms she transmitted toward her engineering deck -Compensate aft shields, reroute all other power to the engines, we need to keep them out of range-. A surprised engineer moved in to assist, fine tuning the systems as ordered, despite the nearly full control Keirra had over her ship's systems.  Another volley of missiles left the launchers soon once again hitting home....

Gallente Station - Tactical Room

A furious Gallente commodore thundered and cursed before his group of staff. Observing the Kestrel on his area display he could not believe his eyes. The Caldari pilot was executing maneuvers that avoided most of incoming fire. Reports from his field vessels indicated the ship's shields simply continued to recharge, despite their low percentage left. Four blue triangles indicated another volley of missiles. Turning toward his second in command he spoke quietly however "That Caldari is either foolishly brave or suicidal, he's firing missiles at a star-gate".

Yet his surprise and perhaps hope were soon cast off. An engineer monitoring the Star-gate's status turned with a grim face toward the Federation officers, "Sir the Gate has lost shielding, repair crews are unable to cope with the damage that frigate is inflicting. The Kestrel is using explosive warheads. Gate Foreman reports he lost about half of his repair-crews, their armour is at 10 percent".

The Gallentean could not believe his ears "My god...., what's the status on the Kestrel?". The man reported again, "Sir, she's at 20% shield, she's lost all of her armour but she's holding. I'll give credit to that Caldari engineer....". However the Commodore yelled out "Have the Dyonisus move in to engage. That Frigate can't repel the firepower of the Crui....". A large explosion on the view screen could be seen where once the Star-Gate had been. Debris hit several Atrons putting them out of comission and the shockwave approached the station, rocking it violently. From the Sensor room, Marc Colelie's voice could be heard "Commodore, the Kestrel is warping out, she's in one piece however that's the least of our problems....Caldari signatures are warping in. I am counting Two Raven-class, one Scorpion, several heavy assault ships and frigates....".

...Aboard the Flameburst.

With a crippled Kestrel, Keirra brought the ship to a full stop. Emptying her pod of bio-gel she climbed out quickly, moving to check on her crew. The bridge was a mess but soon her helmsman, Jukka approached with a sad face "Keirra, we lost our Engineer, along with the engineering control room and the mid-engine, Kyra is dead, we have three other wounded. Our capacitor his holding, shields are back online. We've also lost the entire aft section armour plating, we're on nanite reinforcing and emergency shields".

Washing away her emotions at the news of her engineer's death she spoke quietly "Regardless, Kyra died a hero, fighting for the good of the State and it's people. You all behaved exemplary. I've started our distress beacon and soon a ship should be here to help us. The Gallenteans hoped too much, we have closed their gate to heaven".

Hours later a Drake-class Battlecruiser arrived, it's tractor beam towing the damaged Kestrel back to the Ishukone Watch station. With her job done and more credits in her wallet Keirra could rest safe now, knowing Malkalen was safe.

Under the Old Man's Light

Unable to rest, trashing around her bed in the Old Man Star Quafe Company station Keirra slowly opened her eyes. She felt restless, agitated, anxious for some reason. Slowly stepping out of the bed that seemed large enough, her bare feet touched the cold floor and she moved toward the window. The Moon below seemed the only thing she could spot for a moment and she stared. They were pretty far from the sun's light still fell on the satellite illuminating one half of it. Her crew-mates were sleeping in their bunks, in the same cabin but deciding to calm herself down. Pulling on her boots and utilitarian multi-pocketed pants she walked out onto the half-lit corridor determined to find a Cantina.

Despite the tranquility of the sleeping area the rest of the Space Station buzzed with activity. Below the walkway she slowly trodded on ships moved in and out of their docking bays, airspeeders buzzed from loft to loft and thousands of lights from the station's inner structures shone like small stars. Several late night birds passed by her but she ignored them. Moving on her feet carried her to a large station plaza where hundreds of people seemed to have gathered around the many Cantinas or clubs. Stepping into the first open locale she moved toward the bar, half asleep.

A single cough from the bartender caused her to raise her blue eyes and look the man in the eyes. He appeared to be of Intaki blood, a rather calm and composed face. He nodded politely and asked "Unable to sleep huh? So you want anything to drink? Perhaps some food to go with it?". Shaking her head a moment still attempting to wake up fully she only nodded to his reply, before speaking "Get me something consistent....beef and some veggies to go with it and a can of Quafe please". Without further words the tender returned a few minutes later from the food processor with the requested goods. Looking at her rather small frame he kept a polite tone "Isn't that a bit too much food for you darling?". An icy glare from Keirra was the answer to his question. The man backed off slightly "Easy easy, you Caldari are all work and no play, it was a joke".

Digging into her meal, sipping the fruit flavoured Quafe now and then the Caldari young woman ignored the Intaki bartender for now but soon she realized to be all alone there. She had hoped for a quiet meal but the Intaki was beginning to bug her. With a rather harsh response to his earlier words she caused him to shrink away even further "Listen buddy, I am not interested in your stupid pick-up lines or your remarks about me. If you want to talk at least find a more productive topic". A curse in her own language left the barkeep baffled.
At the sound of the Caldari language two other customers, drunken security personnel grinned at each other, moving toward the blonde haired Civire girl.

With a mocking gaze in his eyes one of them spoke "This little doll giving you trouble Sereus?". The Intaki looked at the two "You boys had enough to drink, why don't you go back to your quarters and rest, leave my customers alone.". The other taking advantage of the distraction closed onto Keirra's location. She had remained oblivious to their argument until his hand set on her shoulder. Turning slowly toward the Gallentean, she raised an eyebrow "What do you want? Go find some prostitutes if you're looking for entertainment". The intoxicated man grinned "Yes yes, I can do all that but I've never had Caldari before......". Her small Caldari State pin, attached to her T-shirt betrayed her lineage, yet his remark ticked her off. Stepping off her stool she smiled mysteriously, her voice soft now, making the Gallentean officers smile "Oh you boys never had Caldari before. I'll give you Caldari, more than you can handle". With a single link of movements her boot connected to the man's lower leg, the sound of a crack could be heard and he fell to the floor screaming.

His colleague, reached for his side-arm but he was a little slow. Keirra unholstered her Ishukone manufactured automatic pistol pointing it at the man's face, just a couple of milimeters off his nose. "I would not do that if I were you. Take your friend and leave me to my meal". Distressed the Intaki barkeep had pressed his security button and moments later four Gallentean security staff entered with their stun batons at ready. As soon as they entered the young woman set her pistol on the floor, raising her arms up. She did not want trouble. A gruffy looking sergeant looked at the scene, not knowing if to laugh or begin a serious inquiry.
"Devereaux, Elolies you are off duty, intoxicated, care to explain why you've picked on Sereus' customer?".

The man on the floor with a broken leg responded nothing but the other tried to put together a valid respons "Oh, we just came here for a drink... wh..when we noticed her automatic pistol!". Grunting the non-comissioned officer looked at Keirra then back to his men "Was the gun drawn and threatening Sereus in any way?". Breaking his silence the bartender spoke quietly "No Sir, the lady is only here for a meal and drink, we were getting along quite fine until they showed up", he indicated the two drunken security officers.

Left without a reply to defend himself the officer who had spoken lowered his head, noticing the Sergeant go over the security camera recordings. With a sigh the non-comissioned officer turned toward his small group of men "Take Devereaux and Elolies into custody, see to Deveraux's leg.". Cuffed the aggressors were dragged away, the sergeant turning toward Keirra "And you, finish your meal, pack your things and leave the station. I don't want you to cause any more trouble around here". A defiant Keirra lowered her arms, picking up her weapon and holstering it, "I am here for repairs Sergeant and until my ship is fixed I won't be going anywhere. You'll have to leave with the idea of having me aboard your station". Before the amazed Gallentean could respond she moved back onto her stool, returning to her meal.

Raising his shoulders, Sereus, the Barkeep looked at the Sergeant and he moved back to wash some glasses just as the officer left. Turning toward one of the windows of the club Keirra smiled to herself. She felt good now after having vented off on the trouble-seeking Gallenteans. In the distance the Old Man's light shone on her features. She had taken her first step of her journey well, there under the Old Man's Light.

The Journey begins

The dwindling light of the Old Man Star sun slowly faded into the distance as the utilitarian coloured Condor-class dubbed "Firewing" slowly trekked it's way toward the system exit point. Light danced across the armour panels exposed to the star's direction as the engines flared at full Impulse power. No noise altered the tranquility of space and with the Frigate approaching it's destination the bridge panels slowly retracted. Setting her hand on the polycarbonate glass window Keirra sighed softly as the sight of a space ship's wreck came into sight. Turning toward the man at the helm of the vessel she spoke quietly "Jukka bring her to a full stop....".

Keira Lukkane was small for the average Civire woman, mostly calm and withdrawn, friendly when she needed to be. However her loose hair that partly covered her face hid intense features that only sketched a wave of emotions rushing through her. The wreck was a familiar sight she had visited for the past two years since she had inherited the last asset her family ever posessed, the Firewing. Without looking at the four crew members on the bridge her rather soft voice could be heard once again "You are all dismissed. We'll be here for a while so, consider yourselves off duty".

Despite the protests on the faces of two of her crew-mates she did not even want to look at them. Listening to her words they withdrew slowly leaving her alone on the bridge. Reaching with her hand underneath her t-shirt she pulled out a set of Dog tags, worn together on the same chain along with a small digital imaging frame. Now that she was alone she let her emotions free. With rivers of tears running down her face she fought to keep herself composed but the emotions were too much. This site was not ordinary, not for her. Here two years earlier, her step-mother, Janna Haikkonen along with her father had fallen victim to a small squadron of Gallente and Minmatar vessels while returning home. The remnants of the Badger class transport were still there, some plates still bearing the impact hits of blaster bolts and projectile ammunition.

Closing her ice-blue eyes she tried to remember her childhood, her parents, the good days when she was a simple young woman, growing in the ever competitive environment of Caldari society. Despite the harshness and discipline she always had time for herself, her own personal pursuits, mostly tinkering with gadgets and holographic art. While she had her education completed she had not gone to seek employment with a Corporation. Running a small business she ferried people, goods across space, from system to system, leaving a rather normal life.

With her graduation at the age of twenty from the Science and Trade Institude she had gone to work with her father as a crew member aboard his transport and at times aboard the small-sized "Firewing". If she had been there, if she had gotten there in time, perhaps she could have kept her family's murderers away, they would have all been together. Faced with harsh reality she shoved off her past and reached again for the transparent surface of the bridge's windows, running her palm down the surface. Whispering to herself she closed her eyes "Wherever you are father, I will make them pay, I promise!".

With a final glance at the wreck she pressed a small button besides the window frame and the panels shut down again slowly. Moving toward the ship's helm station she sat down into the console's chair loading the map of the system, browsing stations, services. Finally plotting a course the engines once again flared to life. Keeping it on manual control Keirra smiled to herself. It felt good to feel the ship with her hands for once and not with her mind..... With a path clear before her she engaged the warp-drive. Space-time warped around her ship as it went past the Warp barrier slowly.... the Journey had begun. She was not sure where or how it would end but she felt content, as her emotions had finally been vented. Now only determination, ruthlessness and a clear mind would prevail. She was Civire, she was Caldari, that was enough.