[Einmánuður 24, 9092, 9:05AM (Icarian Standard Time), Commander-Class Hangar B3, Icarian Armed Forces HQ, Icaria Prime]

The morning sun rose over the horizon, signaling the start of a new day for the personnel at the Icarian Armed Forces HQ. The sounds of trumpets performing the wake-up call for recruits over the barracks. Military personnel of all ranks making small take as they make their way to the mess hall for their morning meal. Officers discussing their next war plans with their peers. And vehicles driving around and carrying cargo and personnel to their destinations.

Just another day in the glorious Icarian Armed Forces.

Inside one of the colossal Commander-class hangars, the HMS Hyperion was being refueled and restocked before her next voyage. To call this ship titanic would be an understatement, for the scale of such a cruiser was near-impossible to comprehend unless you had the specific measurements written out for you to read. Requiring a crew of six thousand members, including an Oracle-class AI, just to man the thing, powered by only the most advanced in magi-tech reactors, and armed with dozens if not hundreds of weapons across its hull, the Hyperion stood proud as a symbol of the Icarian Navy's might.

As the Hyperion was being restocked, Verigan, Demkov, and Delphi waited by the hangar entrance for their contacts.

“What’s taking so long? Shouldn’t they be here by now?” Verigan asked impatiently as he tapped his foot.

“Ah, have some patience, man. It’s early morning. I’m sure they’ll be here any minute now," said Demkov. Just as he said that, a personnel shuttle landed in a docking lot. "Well, speak of the devil. Come on. You’ll love this guy.” He walked up to the shuttle, with the prince following him.

The shuttle was an old UNE cargo carrier dating back to the 81st century, retrofitted with armor plating and an assortment of heavy weapons like rocket launchers, rotary ion cannons, and a bomb bay, transforming the shuttle from an ordinary transport ship into a battle worthy war machine.

The back doors hissed with steam as they opened, and a figure clad in a grey hunter's coat exiting the shuttle. Their first contact, Nicholas "Geargrinder" Vitruvius.

“Nicholas! It is so good to see you again, comrade!” said Demkov with delight. Hewalked up to Gear and gave him a big hug, to which Gear chuckled and awkwardly hugged Demkov back.

"H-Hey, Yuri. It's good to see you too," replied Gear awkwardly as he let go of Demkov. "Uhm, how've you been doing all this time?"

"Ah, I've been doing well, comrade! I've been all over the place helping with the war effort, but my spirits remain as high as I after a keg or two!" the commander quipped, getting a small chuckle out of Gear. "Ah, but forget about me. How about you, comrade? How has life fared for you?"

"Well, it's been going a lot smoother than before. I got in touch with Rosa for some more therapy sessions. I wish I'd gotten some help sooner, but better late than never I suppose."

“Well, I’m happy that you’re getting your problems sorted out, friend.” Demkov turned their attention to Verigan. “Ah, Nick! I almost forgot to introduce you to—"

“It's fine, I already know who you are. Honored to meet you, Prince Verigan. My name's Nicholas Virtuvius, but you can call me Geargrinder.” He held his hand out to shake, which the prince accepted.

“Please, just call me Verigan," He said with a smile. “Thanks for accepting our call, Geargrinder. We need all the help we can get.” He then gestured to Delphi, who was currently in the form of a small hologram sitting on Verigan's shoulder. "Oh, and I think you're familiar with my AI assistant. Based on what I've heard, you're old friends from the first war."

"Hello, Nick," Greeted Delphi with a smile. "It's great to see you again after all these years."

"Hey, Delphi," Gear returned the greeting. "Good to see you too." He turned his attention to the HMS Hyperion in its docking bay, cracking a grin at the sight of the flagship. “Well, I'll be. Never thought I’d see the crown jewel of the Icarian Armed Forces again. How’s she doing after all these years?”

"Oh, she’s doing fantastically, comrade. We even managed to get a hold of some new experimental Hellfire thrusters. Courtesy of Viktor, who proudly accrued them for us. And by accrue, I mean steal from the custody of some now very pissed off Cahrystan ship captains.” The UNE commander chuckled and pointed at the said thrusters, which were being retrofitted onto the Hyperion as they spoke.

“I was talking about Delphi, but I guess the Hellfire thrusters are cool too," said Gear nonchalantly. Demkov and Verigan replied with a fit of laughter, and Delphi sheepishly looked away as her face flushed red.

“What... What did you just say?” asked Demkov in between his chuckles. He got nothing but a smug grin from the bounty hunter.

“You heard what I said. So,”—Gear turned to Verigan—”I take it we'll be heading off now?"

“Shortly. We still need to attend a debriefing before we can actually leave. Not to mention that we're still waiting for our second man. Although, I was expecting that he’d arrive with you.” Said Verigan as he raised an eyebrow.

"What? I thought he'd be here ahead of me, questioned Gear. He looked around the hangar, looking for any sign of the redhead pirate. “Is he really not here yet?”

"Honestly, I'm not that surprised. Ryan always had a habit of being a little late to the party," said Verigan. He turned to Delphi to ask her to send Ryan a follow-up. “Del, could you send Ryan a follow-up message to Rya—”

“Uhm, actually, he arrived a while ago, sir. Just not, well, you know, in the military base,” informed Delphi to the prince.

“W-Wait, what?" questioned Verigan. "What do you mean he arrived 'a while ago'?”

Delphi brought up a live news report taking place outside a restobar. Through the window, there appeared to be some sort of brawl taking place.

“Apparently, he travelled all the way from Deadman's and landed in Tempus City," started Delphi. "After such an extensive trip, I can assume he’d want a bite to eat. But, being the Scourge of Sigma, it’s pretty obvious that he’d attract some… unwanted attention. Needless to say, he got provoked by some no-good wankers and is now duking it out as we speak.”

"Yup, that's Ryan alright. Getting into fights," Verigan sighed. He couldn't help but crack a grin at the sight. "Ah, this takes me back to simpler times."

"Well, reminiscence aside, I suggest we go get our privateer before he gets involved with even more goons. Or worse, the authorities."

"We can take my shuttle to Tempus City," offered Gear. "It should be a fifteen minute trip max. Now let's go. Last thing we need is Robert himself getting involved once he hears of his son getting behind bars." He walked over to his shuttle, the Bomber Bane, with the rest of the crew in tow.

“Well, this should be interesting. Who knows? Maybe I can even join in on their roughhousing," quipped Demkov.

"Uncle Demkov, please don't," begged Verigan.

“Yeah, I'd rather not have a cyborg slav join a bar fight, especially in a bar full of booze," replied Gear as he entered his shuttle with Demkov, Delphi, and Verigan. The Bomber Bane lifted off from its lot and flew over to the Dining District to inspect the chaos.

[Einmánuður 24, 9092, 9:25AM (I.S.T.), The Dining District, Tempus City, Icaria Prime]

Tempus City. The entertainment and leisure capital of Icaria Prime. Filled to the brim with all kinds of entertainment establishments, including but most certainly not limited to arcades, casinos, amusement parks, hobby stores, conventions, and of course, restaurants with cuisine from all corners of Kyklos. They even have some establishments for the more… adventurous types of folks. But that’s a story for another time.

The quartet walked through the streets of the Dining District, looking for the establishment where the fight was taking place.

“So, where exactly is the restaurant we’re looking for, Delphi?” asked Verigan.

"The establishment is called the Valorian Joys Resto Bar," replied Delphi. "Should be easy to spot on account of the broken furniture, shattered windows, and the sounds of some dumbarses getting their arses kicked to Valos and back."

“Well, I see Ryan’s making quite the first impression," muttered Gear. “So, what exactly do we do once we get there?"

“Unless the situation escalates, I suggest we just stand by and let Ryan take care of it.” Replied Delphi. “What I’m really concerned about is city security getting involved. The last thing we need is to meet our new crewmate in the slammer."

"Don't worry, lads. I've already given them the order to stand by. Anyway, you’re almost at the resto bar. Should be right around the—” Delphi was interrupted as the sound of glass breaking could be heard around the corner of the street. “…corner.”

“Well, that definitely sounds like the place," whispered Verigan. He and Demkov peeked over the corner to find a crowd gathered outside of the resto bar, witnessing the chaos ensue. As the crowd watched, they gasped in shock and stepped back when a man was sent flying out of the window and onto the asphalt, losing some teeth in the process. Using the last of his consciousness, he managed to somewhat sit up and shakily point at the restobar.

"Th-That Sigmaborn scoundrel is… f-f-feckin' nuts…" spat out the man before he passed out from a combination of drunkenness and a well-deserved concussion. The sound of tussling continued from the second floor of the bar.

“Well, he’s been pretty busy," said Demkov as he and Verigan walked over to the resto bar. “Gear, stay outside and keep anyone else from entering or exiting the building."

"Got it." Gear nodded and stood guard at the door to the restobar as the other three entered.

The bar’s interior was in absolute shambles. Shattered glass and puddles of cheap beverages littered the shelves behind the bar, dozens of knocked out goons were snoozing on a massive pile of what was once a bunch of wooden furniture, and the sounds of idiots duking it out and losing echoed from the second floor.

“Woah...” Said the trio in unison, their eyes wide open as they beared witness to the state of ruin that the resto bar was in. A hand shakily rose from the counter and pointed at the staircase to the second floor.

“G-Get that bloody p-pirate out of my damn pub!” He shouted in irritation. “His damn presence alone has set me back by at least three months! This new furniture was made out of Valorian Maple! Do you have any idea how much a single chair costs?!”

“To be fair, they were the ones who started this whole shitefest! I was just trying to have a hot meal after a long-arse trip!” A voice shouted from upstairs. “Oi! Get back here, dumbarse! I ain’t done with your heiney!” The sounds of urgent pleading and apologizing could be heard, followed by screams of agony and the cracking of some bones, causing the four downstairs to flinch.

“Yup, I’m calling an ambulance.” Uttered Delphi as she called the nearby hospital. "And don't worry, sir. You'll be reimbursed. Just send an in-voice through to the financial division." She said to the publican.

“I like this man already," said Demkov with a cheeky grin on his face as he took the stairs to the second floor. But just as Demkov made it to the second floor, he felt a hand grab him by the ankle. ”What in the?” He looked down to see a man crawling on the floor with bruises all over his face, blood leaking out of his nostrils, and some knocked out teeth. The battered man looked up at Demkov and pleaded for help.

“H-H-Hey! Help a feller out, will—” He was cut off as he was grabbed by his feet and dragged away from Demkov. “N-N-N-No! Wait! Please! Me and my G’s were just messin' around! We didn’t mean to call you a salty seabass! We swea—” The goon was cut off again as a fist flew square into his face, knocking him out cold. The trio looked up at the person who landed the hit. He was a tall man with slightly tan skin, a bomber jacket and cargo pants, and flaming red hair. That was him alright.

The Scourge of Sigma himself, Ryan Thatch.

“Bloody bragging gowls. Always talking yourselves up with nothing to show for it," Ryan huffed as he dusted his jacket off and tied his hair back into a loose high ponytail. He turned to Demkov and apologized. “Well, sorry for meeting you mateys under… whatever adjectives you’d use to describe these circumstances.”

“Ryan! Good to see you, man!” Verigan greeted the man enthusiastically.

“Verigan?” Ryan rubbed his eyes and looked at the prince, a big grin forming on his face. “Oi, Verigan!” He walked up to him and gave him an embtace. “Ah, it’s good to see you, mate! I ain’t seen you since graduation!” He pulled away from the hug. “Hey, how’s life treating you, old friend? You and Yuriko still got a thing going on?”

“Well, it could be doing better considering the war and everything, but I’m still going strong. And yeah. Me and Yuriko are doing great. What about you?”

“Heh. I’m doing fantastic, lad. Been up to all sorts of shenanigans as of late. Robbed a few Parallaxian convoys, pulled off a few heists on Cahrystan banks, and mopped the floors with a bunch of bell ends who tried to stick one up my arse,”—He pointed to a knocked out goon—“as you can see here based on my handiwork.”

“Well, I have to admit. You’ve got some fine handiwork on display.” The prince and the pirate shared a laugh together.

“What can I say? I like putting on shows wherever I go. Although, with all the disturbance I’ve caused, I don’t reckon that city security’s too pleased with my latest show," said Ryan as he peeked out of the window, looking at the security guards gathering outside.

“Oh, you don’t need to worry about the city patrol. I’ve already ordered them not to intervene. They're just here to clean up the mess,” Delphi informed the pirate.

“Ah, I see! Thanks, lassie. Last thing I need is another group of amadans trying to fuck with me while I'm trying to relax." Ryan took a chair and sat down, exhaling and wiping the sweat off of his face. "So, you want me to join your little crew, 'huh? Pardon my curiosity, why’re you lads looking to hire me of all people? I don't mean no bad wording, but ain’tcha already got a billion soldiers in your militia?” He questioned as he pulled a flask out of his pocket and took a swig.

“Well, the situation's more complex than that," started Verigan as he sat down on a chair next to Ryan.. “With how thinly we’ve been spread out to try and keep our territory out of the League’s hands, we've been struggling to keep our defenses stable."

“Hm. Yeah, I get what you’re dealing with. Pointing their big guns at the important places to draw attention. That way, a large chunk of your men’ll be focused on defending that particular thing, leaving whatever’s left behind weak and vulnerable, giving the enemy a chance to take those instead. And once enough of those smaller positions are taken, they launch their attack on the big mama. Classic diversion tactics."

“Precisely, "started Demkov. “Which is exactly why we’re turning to people like you and Gear, among a few others. Ever since the New Era Powers were formed and Ferren was made the Supreme Commander of the military, they've made this war absolute hell for us. With so many of our men spread thin, we need all the help we can get. And based on you and Gear's records, you're both men of impeccable skill."

“Which is why we came to you. I know it’s much to ask, but we need your help in this war. A lot of lives are on the line here, and you've got an opportunity to save those lives.” Verigan stood up from his chair and offered his hand to Ryan. “So, what do you say, Ryan? You in?”

“You kidding? Kicking NEP arse, plundering them to high hell, and saving the innocent? Verigan, my man, this shite is right up my alley!” Ryan took one more big swig from his flask and stood up, raising it triumphantly and taking Verigan's hand. “Count me in, lads! We're going to kick some NEP ass to high hell!"

“Well, we’re honored to have you aboard, Ryan," said Verigan with a smile on his face

“Ah, the honor is mine, mate. It's the least I can do for the people of the fair galaxy.” The pirate took his bag from underneath his chair. “So, when are we taking off?”

“Well, while the Hyperion's being refueled, we need to attend a meeting that'll happen in about three hours at the Halls of War,” informed Delphi. “Should give us enough time to pick up a bite to eat. Which reminds me that a new Kurger Bing actually opened up here recently. It’s just a few blocks ahead if you’re all up for it.” She displayed a holographic map, pinpointing the Kurger Bing joint’s location.

“I’m up for it as long as we get it to go. Last thing I need is another dimwit ambushing me while I try to eat a Bopper in peace.” Ryan stretched his limbs as they all walked down the stairs.

“That implies that someone would actually try after what went down," said Verigan as he assessed the bar. “And given what went down…” He patted Ryan’s back, "no one’s coming for your ass, buddy.”

The pirate chuckled at his remark.

“Good to know. Now c’mon. I need a Savior-of-your-Savings Meal after tussling in this kip.” He opened the door and let everyone out of the bar. As the quartet walked outside the ruined bar, they were greeted by Gear, who was busy trying to keep the crowd from entering the restobar.

"About time. I didn't know how much longer I had to keep reporters from trying to get in," said the bounty hunter as he shoved aside another reporter. "Quit stepping out of line, damnit!"

"My camera!" shouted the reporter as he fell into a cabbage cart and ruining the cabbages.

"My cabbages!" shouted the cart's owner.

"Oi, Gear!" exclaimed Ryan. "Been a long-arse while since I last saw you! Last time we met was during my stint with Aurek Squadron on that mission in that Cahrystan data compound." .

"What can I say? Neo-Communists don't really like to sit still. If they did, I would've had Vadim's head mounted on my wall a long time ago," Replied Gear.

"You're seriously still hunting that commie prick, mate?" Ryan raised an eyebrow as the crew made their way to the Kurger Bing.

"I always am, Thatch. I always am," responded Gear with a tinge of sadness and anger in his tone. "If the recent news is anything to go by, the League has been collaborating with the Neo-Communists with their whole New Era Powers alliance. Certainly explains all of the new tech they've been getting. This might me my chance to finally get to Vadim and make the bastard pay."

"Well look on the bright side, mate. With this info, you'll get to kick"—Ryan smashed his fist into his palm—" plenty of USSR-wannabe bell ends back to the motherland! Nothing's stopping you now! Not even their surplus of clone soldiers!"

"You'll get the chance to pay old Vadim a visit and give him his just desserts. He won't even know what hit him before he drops dead!" shouted Demkov enthusiastically. Gear stifled a chuckle.

"Hm. Well, we'll see about that, I suppose." The bounty hunter stretched his limbs. "Anyways, as much as I'd like to talk about the foundations for my revenge, we really should get something to eat. Something tells me we're going to need it for the meeting after."

"Oh, you have no idea," muttered Delphi. "You have no bloody idea."

"I do. And frankly, I wish I didn't." Verigan shuddered at the thought of being stuck in a room with thirty-something armchair generals.

And so, our newly-assembled crew went to get a bite to eat at Kurger Bing before their meeting. And Gear's hunch was right. They were going to need some refreshments for the meeting that came after. But not even Kurger Bing nor a ton of combat experience was going to prepare them for the absolute horror that was...

The horrors of the senate.