Legacy of the Void Fleet

Onboard the Oblivion-Class Star Dreadnought, Kallus sat in the command center, analyzing the unfolding scenario. Within an hour of their arrival, Kallus and his fleet had gathered comprehensive information on Earth's recent history and the Star Empire's actions over the past three months.

The Red Empress, with the Dreadnought's cutting-edge information systems, had compiled detailed reports. Kallus reviewed them: the initial fighter jet skirmishes, the unseen capabilities of Star Empire vessels, and the subsequent fallout. Notable incidents included:

The engagement between U.S. F-22s and Star Empire fighters. Under pressure from superiors, U.S. pilots fired despite knowing their weapons were ineffective. The F-22s' advanced radar systems failed to detect the Star Empire's ships, leading to a disastrous outcome. Two U.S. jets were destroyed, with one crashing into a civilian area, causing casualties.

The failed nuclear escalation. When the U.S. launched missiles in space, the Star Empire retaliated by neutralizing 20% of their nuclear arsenal, significantly weakening the country's military power.

China's technological advancements. With Star Empire support and technological gifts, China developed automated power plants, built fusion reactors, and received plasma propulsion systems for its next-generation J-20 fighter jets. These upgrades rendered their fighters superior, replacing fuel-based engines with advanced battery systems.

Kallus, an observer with roots in India, noted the disruptive nature of these advancements. While China thrived under the Star Empire's guidance, Kallus's focus remained elsewhere. After finishing the reports, he addressed his officers, including Knight Grandmaster Emma and others.

"The Star Empire clearly has the upper hand—they arrived first, established themselves, and strengthened China to consolidate their position," he began. "But my goal has never been them. It has always been India."

The officers exchanged glances as Kallus continued. "India is a country brimming with talent, but its political issues—rampant corruption, election freebies, and inefficient governance—hinder its progress. Despite this, it grows faster than any other nation, a testament to the strength of its people. Our data shows that 25% of its population is under 14, a demographic full of untapped potential."

Tyler, from R&D, interjected, "Commander, we've assessed the education system in India. While effective, it's inefficient in utilizing resources. With our technology and advanced knowledge, we could revolutionize it. We could also introduce gene-unlocking serums, far superior to those offered by the Star Alliance, to help them unlock their full potential."

Kallus nodded. "Precisely. India has the resilience and unity to overcome challenges. We can approach its people directly, bypassing the often self-serving leadership. By offering sincerity and collaboration, we can form an alliance based on trust and mutual growth."

As the discussion progressed, Red Empress interrupted. "Imperial Commander, the Star Fleet has reached out. It seems they want to establish contact—and assess our intentions."

Kallus leaned back with a faint smile. "It took them long enough," he remarked. "They're no threat to us. Even their Supreme Chancellor isn't reckless enough to provoke conflict. But their cautious approach suggests they've made some preparations."

Ezra Tanno, a senior officer, added, "While inefficient, their efforts prove they're capable."

Kallus nodded. "Agreed. However, this meeting will be on our terms, not theirs. Red Empress, inform them that we acknowledge their approach and are willing to discuss matters, but only with their leaders. Let them know we're interested in establishing common ground."

As the officers nodded in agreement, Kallus concluded, "That's all for now. Stay alert and monitor the conversation as it unfolds. Dismissed."

The Red Empress nodded at Kallus's instruction, her composed demeanor exuding efficiency. Turning her attention to the communication console, her holographic interface lit up with streams of data as she swiftly composed the message. Despite her origins as a fragment of creation, her mannerisms and expressions felt as natural as any being's.

With a serene yet purposeful tone, she announced, "Message composed and sent, Commander. The contents are formal yet firm, emphasizing our willingness to engage but on terms that reflect our authority. I expect their response shortly."

The content of her worded message to the Star Fleet was succinct and diplomatic:

To the Command of the Star Fleet,

We acknowledge your approach and recognize the intent to establish contact.

The Void Fleet, under Imperial commander Kallus' command, is open to discussions aimed at fostering understanding and exploring common interests. However, these discussions must be conducted with your highest leadership present to ensure meaningful and productive dialogue.

Please confirm your readiness and propose a suitable time for the meeting.

With respect,

The Void Fleet Command

Once the message was dispatched, the Red Empress turned back to Kallus. "The message has been delivered across all appropriate Star Fleet channels. They will need time to deliberate before responding."

Kallus leaned back in his chair, his gaze steady. "Good. Let them take their time. It's crucial they understand this isn't a negotiation of equals—we hold the upper hand. Keep me informed of their reply."

Kallus leaned forward slightly, a subtle smile playing on his lips as he addressed the officers in the command center. "I've given them enough in the message," he began, his tone calculated yet casual. "Enough for them to start piecing things together."

He gestured toward the holographic display showing the fleet's intricate designs and the message that had been sent. "From our intel, their Supreme Commander, Bai Zongzi, was originally from Earth, though he reincarnated into his current life. Still, he spent considerable time on Earth before ascending in rank. It won't be hard for him—or anyone else familiar with Earth's history and technology—to recognize the similarities in our fleet's design and make the connection."

Kallus's smile widened, his voice tinged with amusement. "That recognition alone will spark intrigue—and perhaps unease. Let them think. Let them speculate. It's better they come to their conclusions without us spelling it out entirely. This keeps us in control of the narrative while they scramble to adapt."

The officers nodded, understanding the subtle psychological game Kallus was playing. Ezra Tanno, a seasoned strategist within the fleet, spoke up. "It's a clever move, Commander. They'll spend more time questioning their assumptions and planning their approach, giving us the advantage of time and a stronger position in the eventual talks." As we already are .

"Exactly," Kallus replied, leaning back into his chair. "We've given them a puzzle—one they'll be eager to solve. And by the time they think they have the answer, we'll be two steps ahead."

The Red Empress chimed in with her characteristic warmth and precision. "Their recognition of your origins, Commander, will likely add to the weight of your authority in their eyes. Earth's cultural connections to you could serve as both a bridge and a lever, depending on how the talks proceed."

Kallus nodded in agreement, his gaze sharp. "Indeed. We've set the stage. Now, we wait for their move."

The room once again fell into quiet anticipation as the Void Fleet maintained its composed vigilance, ready for the response from the Star Fleet.