[K20 - Terminus - AE] The Strategy of Conquest

 

 

 

 

 

The chamber was silent, save for the faint hum of holo-projectors embedded within the High Command’s war table. The men and women seated around it were the most powerful figures in the Ashlon Empire—Grand Admirals, High Generals, and Intelligence Chiefs—all waiting for one voice to speak.

At the head of the table sat Emperor Ashlon, his expression unreadable.

A flickering hologram of the Grid hovered above the table, star systems outlined in glowing red. Some already bore the sigil of the Ashlon Empire, marking conquered worlds. Others remained neutral, unclaimed, waiting to fall. Among the most significant targets was Jedha, where the Red Moons had established a base.

"The Grid is secured," Admiral Carthos Vale began. "Our fleets control all major hyperlanes between Terminus and the Mid Rim. The warlords have been pacified. The corporate alliances have submitted. However, the Red Moons remain a threat."

General Renla Vos spoke next. "We've already struck a major blow with the capture of a Red Moons pilot. He was supplying weapons to insurgents on Fwatna, and his interrogation revealed crucial information about the Red Moons’ operations on Jedha. We must act quickly before they regroup."

The hologram shifted, showing the glowing systems surrounding Jedha. Ashlon’s eyes narrowed, studying the base's location.

"We cannot allow the Red Moons to establish any foothold in the Outer Rim," the Emperor said, his voice cold. "Send the Second Fleet to Jedha. Crush the base. Leave no trace of their rebellion."

Director Luthis of Imperial Intelligence leaned forward, his voice sharp. "We’ve also intercepted transmissions indicating the Red Moons are planning to evacuate through Shiva. They are attempting to flee before we can retaliate. We cannot allow them to escape."

The Emperor’s gaze hardened as he stared at the glowing map. "Deploy additional forces to Shiva. Ensure their evacuation is stopped before it begins. Let them learn that there is no escape from the Ashlon Empire."

The commanders nodded, acknowledging the Emperor’s will.

"Prepare Phase One of the strike. The Red Moons will be eradicated," Ashlon declared. "The Empire’s grip will tighten. The Grid is ours, and no rebellion will rise against us."

The room went still, the weight of Ashlon’s orders settling on all present. The plan was set. The Empire would strike hard and fast, leaving no room for defiance.

As the holograms flickered and new battle plans were drawn, the Ashlon Empire moved forward—not just as survivors, but as the architects of a new era, with the Red Moons soon to be wiped from the galaxy.